Gorgeous Necklace GIVEAWAY from Jenny Ortakales!

Jenny Ortakales is one of the most talented ladies I know! She has her own fashion blog, which is amazing on its own, and currently, she's selling some super pretty jewelry online!

Her jewelry site has oodles of fun baubles to offer, but I'm definitely loving the piece pictured above. I've featured other jewelry designers in the past, and the ones I end up writing about tend to have that "home-made" look. And that's fine for certain occasions.  But Jenny's jewelry honestly looks like something I would easily spend $50 on at a store. All of the pieces are unique and look like they've been made by someone who's entire life is dedicated to jewelry design. It's just another one of Jenny's many talents!

I have one necklace (pictured above) to give away to a lucky reader.

To enter the giveaway, send an email to sassyalana@gmail.com with the subject line reading "JENNY O".  The giveaway ends 12/20 (so I have enough time to ship it to the winner in time for the holidays) and the winner will be alerted via email.

Jenny Ortakales is a fashion writer and stylist, studying journalism at Emerson College. She started her blog, Jenny's Open Closet, in 2009.She's taking a year off from school and decided it would be a great time to start selling her handmade jewelry. In addition to stones, rhinestones, and chains, she uses re-purposed materials from old jewelry. So every piece is guaranteed to be one of a kind.

If you'd like to check out some of the other pieces that Jenny hs to offer, check out her Etsy site, or email her at. And don't forget to take a look at her fab blog! Jenny's Open Closet is the perfect blog for anyone who wants to learn about fashion, or just wants to know what's going on in the fashion world.

Good luck, all!


Photo Credit: J. Ortakales Photography

Disclosure: This post contains product(s) sent for giveaway consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Happy Black Friday!!

For everyone who is brave enough to venture into the malls today, I hope you get some super deals (and don't get trampled)! Oh and bring your man with you so he can carry your bags. He won't mind, I promise!

Pretty Studs for Every Girl on Your List!

One of the most important things that all ladies need to own is a pair of diamond (or faux diamond) studs. I've actually written about it a few times in the past.

There's just something classy and glamorous about them--and you can literally wear them with anything, from a sweater and jeans to your fave LBD!

Getting a pair of good quality studs is always a top priority, but it can be pricey. So I found an amazing deal that's only going on until Friday night. Szul is offering up these gorgeous 1/4 Carat TW Round Solitaire Diamond Stud Earrings in 10K White Gold for 85% off of the original sale price!! Originally, they were $500, but just for the next two days, each pair is selling for $77!

It's really an incredible deal and I can't think of any girl who wouldn't absolutely love a pair of these for Christmas. It's the perfect gift--they're made well and are of the best quality, but won't cost a fortune. I might get a pair for myself!

Send your main squeeze this link if you want to give him a little hint ;).

Happy Shopping!

This post contains affiliate links. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions, please email me at sassyalana@gmail.com.

Control Your Crazy Curls with Ouidad!

Ouidad is my go-to product line when I decide to wear my hair in it's natural state--crazily wavy, curly, and frizzy to the max. Their products definitely help tame my curls and magically make my hair look gorgeous!

Needless to say, when I received this Winter Wonderful Curls set, I was super excited to try it out.  The kit contains 8.5 oz sizes of Climate Control Shampoo, Conditioner and Heat and Humidity Gel.  I don't know about you ladies, but I have a LOT more "bad hair days" in the Winter. That said, the kit could certainly be used year-round as well.

The shampoo and conditioner were great. They're both very lightly scented--almost like a fresh, clean scent. The shampoo did a fab job of washing my hair, but I really loved the conditioner. It's thick and creamy, so it's easy to apply to your hair. What I usually do is shampoo my hair, move my shower head out of the way, twist out a bit of the water, and apply conditioner starting a couple inches or so away from my scalp and down to the tips. Why? Because, at least for me, conditioner can make my scalp oily. I let it sit for about five minutes, then rinse it out. It seemed to work well with this conditioner. The longer you wait to rinse, the more soft, and manageable your hair gets! I also took this opportunity to use a wide-tooth comb to detangle my thick hair.

After washing, my hair felt super silky and healthier right away. It was definitely more manageable than it had been with other products that claim to do the same thing. The gel is a nice touch to the set--it works well and holds your curls in place for quite a while. It isn't sticky at all, and a little goes a long way.

I'll be using this set throughout the season. I hope some of you do the same.

Each set is $46. This is the type of thing that I'd buy a few of--one for me, and some for my friends as gifts. All of my curly-haired friends will be happy this year!

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for review consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Sneaky Ways Bacteria is Getting into Your Makeup

It sounds scary--and it is. Most ladies aren't even aware that bacteria can settle into your beauty products. Even though you may be aware that you need to clean your makeup brushes once a week, and that you need to toss out products once they've expired (you can pat yourself on the back for that!) You can still end up having bacteria-laden products. Bacteria is super sneaky and can get into your makeup easier than you think. And once it gets into your makeup, it can cause oodles of skin problems like acne, redness, and even infection. Not fun.

Here are some ways that bacteria is getting into your makeup, and how to avoid it!

Mascara pumping: We've all done this. Mascara pumping is when we try and get more product on to the brush. What we’re actually doing is drying out the mascara, creating a dry flaky product to form at the top, which becomes breeding ground for germs. We then put that on our eyes, back into the tube and then back onto our eyes. Instead of pumping the brush into the mascara, swirl it inside and never use the same mascara for any longer than three months.

Tubes vs. Jars: This is a no brainer. Jars tend to collect tons of germs as you put your hands into a product multiple times. If possible, go with a tube where you can just squeeze out the product, if you can’t do that, then make sure to use the product with a brush or sponge instead of your fingers.

Reapplying Lipstick After Eating: This goes for any lip product, but when you reapply your lipstick directly after eating, you’re pressing left over food particles into your lips, and into the product itself. Bacteria can then live on the surface of lipstick, or inside the tube of lip gloss, which will spread onto your lips in the next application. Make sure you fully wipe off any food on your lips and if possible, and try to brush your teeth before applying lip color.

Not Cleaning Your Makeup Bag: This is a big one--I've even been guilty of this myself! If you think cleaning every one of your makeup products is enough, it isn't. Your makeup bag also needs to be cleaned out. If it’s a canvas bag, you can throw it in the washing machine with your towels or in the dishwasher to get any loose bacteria out of the bottom of the bag. If it isn't a canvas bag, you can use disinfecting wipes to wipe out the inside without ruining the outside of the bag.

I hope that helps! Good luck ladies, and stay germ-free!

Sniff This: Victoria's Secret Angel Dream (And a GIVEAWAY!)

Per usual, Victoria's Secret has come out with a new, fabulous fragrance for the Winter season. And of course I absolutely love it!  Their latest concoction, Angel Dream, smells simply amazing.

Angel Dream is a very unique scent. It captures the glamour and thrill of the runway by combining yummy-smelling notes of lace violet, iridescent currant and sheer sandalwood. Even though the fragrance is mostly a vibrant floral scent, it isn't overpowering in the least.  This is a scent that you can sport for nearly any occasion. It can easily be worn for day or night, and doesn't have that horrid "grandma smell" that some floral perfumes tend to have.  The fragrance manages to be light and playful, while being dazzling and captivating at the same time.

The scent is also officially boyfriend approved! I spritzed a bit on and my main squeeze immediately asked me what scent I was wearing and said that he loved it.

And of course, I have to mention how cute the bottle is. As most of you know, I have a table in my apartment that is dedicated to pretty perfume bottles, and this one would make a beautiful addition. It's a simple and classic bottle with pretty, dainty wings on the back side.

Now for the best part--Victoria's Secret has teamed up with Sassy Fashionista for an awesome giveaway! I have one bottle of Angel Dream Eau de Parfum (1 fl oz) to give to one very lucky reader!

To enter the giveaway, send an email to sassyalana@gmail.com with the subject line reading "DREAM".  The giveaway ends 11/29 and the winner will be alerted via email.

Good luck!

If you want to purchase the perfume on your own (which I highly suggest), you can get a bottle from $45-$59. The perfume is actually perfect to give as a gift--but be sure to pick up a bottle for yourself too! In addition to the perfume, they've even got a great Dream Gift Bag that includes scented lotion, body wash, and fragrance mist. The products work together so that you can layer on the scent and make it last all day. The set is $39.50, but is a $75 value. Definitely a fab deal!

Disclosure: This post contains product(s) sent for giveaway consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Brr...

There aren't a lot of things that I like about Winter in New Hampshire. But I do enjoy all the cute accessories that come with the chilly time of year.

I'm loving these adorable Sweater Knit Gloves from Old Navy. They come in a bunch of different colors, but the winter white hue is my favorite. Why? Because it has some bling on it that says "brrrr".

I don't know why I think they're so cute, but I'm honestly obsessed with them! I've always loved fingerless gloves (I can even type blog posts while wearing them!), and they're amazingly comfortable.

Each pair is a mere $2.50. Grab a pair for yourself, and get a few for your fashionable friends while you're t it!

Shop it to Me GIVEAWAY: Win Valentino, Gucci or Coach!

If you haven't checked it out yet, Shop It To Me is an incredibly fabulous website that personalizes your online shopping experience. The site finds things that it somehow magically knows you'll love, and everything they find is on sale! You don't have to do any work, other than simply looking through the pieces they've picked out especially for you! Honestly--what's not to love about that??!

Right now, the site has an amazing giveaway going on. Holiday glamour has inspired Shop It To Me to give away three different, and very gorgeous, items: Valentino pumps, a Gucci Wallet, and a Coach Bag. Each prize is going to one lucky Shop It To Me member. So if you haven't joined the site, do it now!

Once you're  member of this awesome shopping site, you can enter the giveaway. All you have to do is invite friends to join Shop It To Me as well. You'll get one entry for each friend who signs up.

The contest ends at 11:59 PST on Friday, November 22, 2013. So get to work!

Important notes: US residents only, must be 18+ years old to enter.  See the official rules.

Good luck, ladies!

My Latest Obsession: Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream

I've been using different BB creams in place of foundation for a while now, and I really like the end result. So when CC (color correction) creams started showing up all over the place, I wasn't really in a rush to try them out. But after trying out the new Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream, I've totally changed my mind.

The cream is absolutely incredible! Much like the rest of the Yes to... products, their CC cream works wonders and has successfully earned itself a permanent spot in my makeup bag.

Like most of their products, the cream is cruelty-free and is made from 95% natural ingredients, which is always a plus. It's actually the very first natural CC cream on the market! Natural skincare products tend to work better on my crazily sensitive skin, and doesn't even really feel like makeup. I've been applying it instead of foundation (or my coveted BB cream). The formula is very lightweight and it leaves my skin feeling fresh and looking gorgeous.

Here's a quick run-down of the incredible benefits the cream has to offer:

• Provides instant and natural coverage with natural pigments
• Helps correct skin tone with its light texture
• Increases luminosity and radiance with evodia fruit
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Protects with SPF 18 broad spectrum
• Moisturizes and keeps skin supple and fresh
• Promotes smoother and softer looking skin with grapefruit

This fabulous cream comes in two colors: light and light-medium. Even though there are only two hues available, they seem to adjust to match your skintone perfectly, so having oodles of shades simply isn't necessary.  The light shade has a little hint of ivory-color, petals, and honey. The light-medium shade has a touch of latte-esque color, caramel, and hazelnut. Both hues result in a flawless finish your skin will love.

Each bottle of CC Cream is $15.99 and can be purchased on the Yes to Carrots site, as well as in select stores.

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for review consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Fancy a Fan? Enter This FANCY Hand Fan Giveaway!

No matter what time of the year, there's always a good reason to have a fan on hand. Think about it: not only are fans the ultimate classy accessory; they're also a glam way to stay cool.

To be honest, keeping a fan on-hand didn't even occur to me until recently. But I'm always looking for fun accessories, so when I found FANCY Hand Fans, I was super excited to try them out. I just love the idea of keeping a fan in my purse--they're amazingly ladylike and useful at the same time. And it doesn't exactly hurt that Christina Aguilera is a FANCY Hand Fan user herself! How cute does she look with the Victorian Roses fan in the picture to the left??!

I think what I like most about these gorgeous fans is that they give off a look of elegance, yet because the company has countless fans to choose from, you can also express your own personal style and pick the fan that's perfect for you! Trust me--whatever type of fashionista you might be, there's a fan just waiting for you to use!

Additionally, the fans are incredibly environmentally friendly. They're made of top quality cherry wood and cotton, and are very lightweight--perfect for keeping in even the smallest handbag.

The best part? FANCY Hand Fans has teamed up with Sassy Fashionista for an amazing fan giveaway! I have three gorgeous fans to give to three lucky readers! The fans are pictured above and, because they're each so different, I'm sure that there's one that tickles your fancy! The fans I have are: the Look Hot fan, the Victorian Roses fan, and the Zebra Chic fan. I absolutely love them all!

To enter the giveaway, send an email to sassyalana@gmail.com with the subject line reading "FANCY" and specify which fabulous fan you'd like to enter for. You can only enter once, for one fan, so choose wisely!  The giveaway ends 11/21 and the winners will be alerted via email.

Good luck, ladies!

If you want to purchase a fan on your own (which I highly reccomend!), you can do so online at www.fancyhandfans.com or www.etsy.com/shop/FANCYHandFans. Each fan is $23 and shipping is free worldwide (Huzzah)! The price is perfect, actually a bit less expensive than I'd expect for fans of such great quality. They also make great gifts--personally, I'm planning on stocking up on a few for the holidays! What gal wouldn't love a fan?!

Each hand fan is sold in a pretty organza pouch with a matching gift bag and a brochure illustrating FANCY's Urban Fan Language, which gives you some fun ideas of how to use the fans to flirt and silently communicate a messages silently and discreetly to a hopeful admirer… or two…!! 

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for giveaway consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

[Image Credit: Standalone pics by Benny Doutsh, Aguilera pic by Trae Patton/NBC]

You're Never Too Old For...

Julianne Moore always looks gorgeous. There's just something about this fifty-something lady that works.

A lot of women simply give up on makeup when they reach a certain age. But the truth is, regardless of how old you are, you can still look fabulous.

You want to look for timeless looks (note: glitter eyeshadow is not for you). Trendy makeup looks aren't really something to go for either.

Here are a few things you can do to beautify yourself at any age:

Red Lipstick
Whether you’re 20 or 40, you’ll never be too old for some bold red lipstick. According to a study, red lips actually make you look younger, so you indeed have proof that you’ll never be too old for bold red lips. Take some time to find your favorite shade and formula, then buy out every stick you can find in preparation of a company discontinuing your favorite, because that is a legitimate issue (trust me--every time I find a product I love, it is almost immediately discontinued).

Balayage Highlights
Giving your hair a sun-kissed, natural look, balayage (painted-on) highlights are the perfect way to look polished without looking like you tried too hard. Plus, they’re incredibly low maintenance, so regardless of how busy (or broke) your life may become, your highlights will never be a source of stress.Woo hoo!

Dark Nail PolishIt doesn't have to be crazily dark black nail polish, but darker hues look good on any set of fingers. Don't get me wrong--I love a good ballerina pink manicure, but a deep ruby or purple always commands attention and let’s people know you’re anything but a wallflower. Keep your nails shorter so that the polish will last for minimal chipping, and wear that dark lacquer proudly and confidently!

Nude LipsI'm not taking nude as in completely bare, ladies. I'm saying that the perfect nude lip gloss or stick will always go with your boldest eye makeup. It also works on the days when you’d rather skip makeup altogether. Nude lip color balances out the rest of your makeup and gives you a gorgeous finishing touch on errand days when you decide to go bare-faced. It's the one thing you should swipe on, even if you decide against everything else.

Top KnotsTop knots are the hair-styling gods’ gift to second day hair. Plus, they instantly dress up whatever you’re wearing, whether it be comfy jeans or a cocktail dress. Any woman can pull off the top knot.

Matte MakeupGiving your skin a smooth, velvety appearance always makes for a gorgeous look, especially if you’re naturally on the oily side. The key to making matte makeup look consistently good over the years is proper exfoliation and moisturization underneath the makeup, whether it’s eyeshadow, foundation or lipstick.

Of course there are oodles of other options for middle-aged and older women to sport, but I think these few tips are a great starting point.

Good luck, and stay fabulous!

A Garter for Gals on the Go!

I usually don't obsess over products that I've seen infomercials for. But I have to admit--the GirlyGoGarter looks ridiculously amazing!

The garters are perfect for times when you really don't want to have a purse with you, but still have stuff that you need to keep with you at all times. Personally, I used to just shove my cell phone, license and a lip gloss in my bra for these occasions, but this fabulous garter is definitely changing that!!

This is no normal garter--the GirlyGoGarter is a sexy, lacey garter with actual pockets that adheres to your upper thigh with patent-pending GentleFlex Grippers.  There are two types of pockets on the garter: easy-access (on the outside, just within the lace) and lock-flap (on the inside, against your thigh). Both types of pockets keep your money, I.D., lip gloss, mobile phone, keys, passport and all of your essentials safe, secure and right at your fingertips. How awesome is that??!

The lace is super stretchy, so you really can fit a bunch of stuff in there without having to worry about anything falling out, or having the entire garter break. In fact, you can fit more on this garter than most clutches can hold--each garter can hold up to 3lbs! Plus it's safer, and less annoying, than carrying around a bag. It's the perfect accessory for a night on the town.

Enjoy your sexy freedom with this kick-ass product! Each garter is $35 and they come in a range of colors--of course the hot pink hue is my fave! They also offer a special blue garter for brides that has extra beading and is simply gorgeous (plus, it can be your "something blue")!

The GirlyGoGarter is currently on my wish-list, but I'm pretty sure I'll be ordering one in the very near future!

Fashion Faux Pas: Return of the Man Purse

Guess what??! The man purse is back--and more horrifying than ever.

A few years ago, I wrote about my hatred of man purses. And later on, I wrote about it again. But somehow, men all over the place are still buying ridiculous man purses.

It doesn't help that Fossil, usually one of my fave retailers, has an ad in the latest issue of Cosmopolitan featuring a man (I'm 99% sure, at least), carrying their very popular Sydney Satchel.

Honestly, I love the bag. I want it. But seeing a guy carry it? Well, that makes it a little less than desirable.

Okay, so there's a small chance that the model is just a very masculine-looking gal. But everyone I've shown this ad to has immediately said that it's a man. And to have a man carry around such a chic, lady-like bag is just awful. It makes me second guess my own fashion sense. I mean, is this a cool look?? Did I miss something? Like a huge fashion meeting that came to the conclusion that guys can carry women's purses and still look normal? Possibly. But I highly doubt it.

The only good thing that's come out of the ad is that I've had my magazine open to the same page, and have been studying it like crazy.

So, if you're a WOMAN and would like to purchase this WOMAN'S BAG, it's selling for $208 and also comes in black. Guys need not even look at it, unless they're shopping for their lady friend.

That is all.

How to Wash Your Hair -- The Right Way

It sounds kind of weird to write this; we all wash our hair and have been doing so, somewhat successfully, since we were little. But the thing is, you can actually harm you hair by washing it incorrectly. Or you can simply wash it in a way that totally deflates any bounciness, or volume you might have been striving for. Whatever the case, it's always a good idea to go over the steps.

1. Start with a rinse.
Just like your laundry needs a rinse cycle before you add detergent, hair should be thoroughly wet before you add your shampoo. Hot water will open the cuticle, which is good for removing any dirt or product trapped in the hair. Another bonus: When your hair is rinsed in warm water, it loosens the oils through the scalp and opens the cuticle so it is able to absorb the oil in your conditioner.

2. If you have long hair, condition first.
Yes, really! I've been doing this for a while now, and it has helped me out a ton! If you have hair beneath the shoulders, protect fragile ends from drying out and further damage by running a small amount of conditioner through them and lightly rinsing, before any shampooing. Shampoo harms hair more than any other product.

3. Lather up (only at the scalp)
The best way to lather up is from roots to ends. The hair closest to the scalp is the youngest and will inevitably be the oiliest, while the end of the hair is the oldest and usually driest, most fragile part of the hair.

4. Be gentle!
Friction can permanently damage your hair’s cuticle, leading to breakage and frizz. Think about washing your hair like you hand wash your lacy lingerie--very carefully.

5. Don’t rinse and repeat.
We've all heard it before. But the truth? The whole "lather, rinse, repeat" thing? It's a no-go. Despite what the instructions on the back of your shampoo bottle may say, there’s no need to wash your hair twice. In fact, it actually hurts your hair, because the extra shampoo strips essential oils that your hair needs to look healthy.

6. Add conditioner from the mid-lengths to the tips.
After you've rinsed out your shampoo, squeeze some of the water out of the hair before you put in the conditioner. Then apply conditioner (only on the shaft and tips of your hair). The longer the conditioner stays on your hair, the better it absorbs. Another tip? About once a month, do a hair "mask": Apply conditioner as you normally would, but don't wash it out. Wrap it in a towel and let it sit overnight. Trust me--when you rise it out the next day, it'll be silkier and more smooth than ever!

7. Finish with a cold water rinse.
Cold water will shut the cuticle tight, sealing the outer layer, which will cause it to reflect the most light and give off the most shine possible.

"Why Do Your Eyes Look So Awesome??!"

That's a question I've been getting a lot recently...well, okay. Variations of it. And mostly it might just be me talking to myself in the mirror. But still--this eye-brightening tip does make eyes look fabulous.

If you haven't tried out Flirt!, available at Khol's, you seriously need to. The entire makeup line is stock full of gorgeous products that every makeup lover lusts after. Particularly, I happen to love the mascaras that Flirt! has to offer. They always do what they say they'll do (lengthen, curl, add volume, etc), plus they usually come in a few fun colors.

Out of all their mascara products, my fave is All That Lash. All of the colors are super pretty--I wear the black one on a daily basis! But the blue hue is the real winner.

I've tried out blue mascaras in the past, and just never really found one that worked for me. They were all either much too bright, or clumped up, or just made me look like a stupid prostitute-clown hybrid. Not good.

But for some reason, All That Lash's blue color didn't do any of those things! The blue isn't really true to what shows up in the picture. It's much darker, and has a bit of a purple tint to it.

You can wear it on its own, which of course makes the blue a bit more obvious, or you can do what I've been loving lately--wearing one coat of it to finish off your mascara routine (which for me, can mean 5748359 different mascaras with a brush going through my lashes between layers. Don't judge).

I absolutely love the effect that the blue has on my already done-up eyes! And because I'm only adding a touch of color, I don't have to really go wild as far as matching my shadow to my lashes or anything. In fact, I find that it looks best with a nice, simple brown smoky eye.

While sporting that look, I have gotten legitimate compliments. Most people don't know what it is about me, or my makeup, they just know that I look great and my eyes look brighter.

Blue is proven to make the whites of eyes look bright, so that's a nice tip to have.

So, if you're scared to try colored mascaras, don't be! You can layer it on as thin (or as thick) as you want! And this brand is the perfect one to start with. I promise, compliments will be coming your way in no time!

Each tube is $15. Grab one in the blue, and also grab a black one just for the heck of it. Yes, it's that good.

Happy Halloween!

No matter what your plans are, I hope that you all have a fabbity-fabulous Halloween!

As a little side note, how cute is this mask?! Check out all the fab holiday finds that Charming Charlie has to offer! Until last week, I had never been to a CC store, and I can honestly say that I'm now QUITE obsessed. More on that in the future!

Have a fun night, ladies!!

Say Yes to Smoochable Lips!

It's no secret that I have an obsession with all the products Yes to Carrots has to offer. So when I received their latest Yes To Naturally Smooth Lip Balm Collection, I was super excited to try it out.

With Winter right around the corner, it's important to have lip balm with you at all times. I know that my lips tend to dry out super easily, and I'm sure many of you have the same issue. This lip balm is perfect to keep in your purse, pocket, or desk drawer for the season.

The product itself is fabulous. There are grapefruit, pomegranate, and blueberry lip balm flavors. Each flavor has a light, subtle touch of flavor and scent. The balm is packed with moisturizing shea butter, aloe vera that’s rich in minerals and vitamins, cocoa seed butter to keep lips soft, and in some formulas you’ll even get a hint of SPF to protect lips.

I've been using one of these balms for the past few days, and I absolutely love it! My lips feel much healthier and moisturized. The added flavor is a nice bonus. PLUS: the balm is boyfriend approved!

Each lip balm is $2.99 and can be purchased on the Yes to Carrots site, as well as in select stores.

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for review consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Superb Store Spotlight: Dots

As much as I love to shop, I hadn't ever been in a Dots store until recently. I don't know why I never ended up going in the past, but I am so happy that I finally did!

The store that I went to (in Manchester, NH), had such a friendly staff. They were all super helpful during my shopping excursion--even when I gave them piles of clothing to put back after I had tried them on!

The feel of the store is actually much more like a boutique. The store has a lot to offer; from the amazing staff to the gorgeous things they sell, Dots isn't like most chain stores.

Another thing I loved--the prices are ridiculously affordable! Usually that means that the clothing falls apart the second you bring it home, but everything was of very good quality.

Here are some of my favorite looks from the store:

I love love love their Satin Trim All Over Sequin Tanks ($10). They come in oodles of colors and are great for a night out. I actually bought this top and wore it out of the store--I didn't want to take it off! In the past, I've tried wearing sequined tops, but due to my sensitive skin, I've always found them to be too itchy. That is not the case with this tank. The lining is smooth and very comfortable.

This outfit is great for in-between seasons. You can pair it with sandals if it's a warm day, or tuck the pants into boots and throw on a chic blazer if it's chilly! The Skinny Jeans in green ($21) aren't something I would usually go for, but the soft mint hue intrigued me. They're also the most comfortable pants that I've ever worn. I like that they aren't super bright, and that they are just a little different from regular denim. It makes them much more wearable. With the pants, I chose to wear a white Pheasant Top with Crochet Bib ($16). It was super comfy, and because of the detail at the top, it also looked unique and super pretty and dainty.

Without a doubt, this Tank Dress with Lace Detail ($18) was definitely my fave out of all the looks I tried. I've got quite a collection of little black dresses, but you can never have too many! The fit was perfect--it came down just enough to show off my legs, without revealing too much, and the lace on the neckline added a little bit of sexiness to the look. This is the type of thing that you can easily dress up or down, based on the accessories you choose. It is a Sassy Fashionista Must-Have!

What do you think of the looks? Make sure to either stop in a store near you, or check out what they've got online. I know I'll be doing that a ton now that I know how amazing everything is!

Stay fabulous and happy shopping!

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for review consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Sniff This: Victoria's Secret Night

It's no secret that I'm a HUGE fan of everything Victoria's Secret has to offer. In particular, their fragrances are always amazing!

Their latest scent, Victoria's Secret Night, is rapidly becoming my favorite perfume.

Inspired by a supermodel’s night out, this sensual, warm fragrance is the sexiest way to own the night. Take it from me. The tempting eau de parfum embodies glamour and intrigue, with a sensual cocktail of sparkling fruity notes, exotic florals, dark woods and sultry musks.

You can purchase the eau de parfum by itself for $52-$68.

That said, I actually think it's way better to buy the Night Gift Clutch, so that you can try everything out. The set includes lotion, body wash, and fragrance mist. The great thing about the set is that you can layer the scent on. When you use products that all have the same fragrance, the scent lasts much longer.

As a little side note, the scent has been boyfriend approved! Yay!

Oh, and did I happen to mention that the trio comes in a super adorable clutch? I'm always a sucker for makeup bags that can double as clutches for  night out, and this one is just perfect.

The set retails for $39.50, which is a fantastic price, considering that it's worth about $75.


Disclosure: This post contains products sent for review consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Eco-Friendly Baubles by Silvana K (And a GIVEAWAY!)

I've always loved unique jewelry. So when I found the Silvana K Collection, I was beyond excited! All of her products are handcrafted from recycled metals, and look fabulous. I really want every single thing her shop has to offer.

I'm currently loving this gorgeous Scissors Cuff Bracelet (pictured). I've honestly never seen anything like it in my life! It's classy, unique, and makes a great addition to any outfit. Bonus? Like most cuffs, the bracelet is adjustable, so it fits all wrist sizes.

Now for the extra fun part! Silvana K has teamed up with Sassy Fashionista for an awesome giveaway!

I have one fabbity-fabulous Scissors Cuff to give away to a super lucky reader.

To enter the giveaway, send an email to sassyalana@gmail.com with the subject line reading "SILVANA K". The giveaway ends 10/30 and the winner will be alerted via email.

Good luck, ladies!

The Scissors Cuff retails for $120. I think it's the perfect price for something this gorgeous. I know I'll be getting one for myself! You can also check out all of her other designs--and trust me, you'll fall in love with them immediately! They're sold at Silvana K Designs Facebook Page, Handbags.com , Nimli.com and in Fine Boutiques Nation wide .


Disclosure: This post contains products sent for giveaway consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Fashion Faux Pas: Harem Pants (Yes, AGAIN!!!)

Okay, a few years ago, I started seeing "harem pants" all over the place. Of course, my sass took over and I blogged about it. Multiple times.

Am I crazy??! Why are these pants so ridiculously trendy?? Why is everyone selling them? And why do they keep getting upgrades, like "funky" patterns and drawstring waistbands??

As far as I can see, these are just poorly-cut pajama pants.

I've said this about a million times, but here are the facts:

• The cut of harem pants make everyone look at least 10 lbs heavier. Because there is so much excess fabric around the thigh area, and because they nip in at the ankles, they simply make it look like you have a huge ass as well as have some sort of crotch issue. Like a horrifying "front ass", or something of the like. Not cute.
• No matter what "fancy" pattern you print them in, poorly cut pants will continue to have the same effect time and time again. The print actually makes it worse.
• A drawstring waist?? Seriously? Do I need to explain this?

The only people who should be wearing something even remotely close to these stupid clown-esque pants are older women, who want something comfy to wear around the house. And I really want to stress it when I say around the house. Because even a senile 100-year-old lady has no business running to the store in a pair of these.

So spread the world, fellow fashionistas! I do NOT want to have to write about this again. It might get pretty violent.

That is all.

Shop for a Cause at Sephora (AND a Giveaway)!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, the always fabulous Sephora is offering up tons of must-have products to celebrate the cause, and the proceeds go to BCA foundations (info on that can be found by clicking the individual links for each item).

Pictured above are my top picks of limited-edition BCA products from Sephora.

1. Sephora Collection Together In Pink Hair Ties ($6) - This pack of four, perfectly pink hair ties are functional, super cute, and can even double as bracelets when they're not in your hair.
2. Marc Jacobs Fragrance Daisy Hot Pink Edition ($79) - The signature Daisy eau de Parfum premiers in a new hot pink, limited-edition bottle. Honestly? I'd buy it for the bottle alone. But the  wild strawberry and light floral scent is super yummy too.
3. Tweezerman Breast Cancer Awareness Slant Tweezer ($22) - This award-winning stainless steel slant tweezer comes in an adorable pink hue, is adorned with the iconic ribbon (in hot pink!), and even has a Swarovski™ Elements sparkle. As a side note, I own multiple pairs of Tweezerman tweezers and they work better than any other brand out there. Plus, how cute are they in pink?!
4. Sephora Collection Together in Pink Brush Set ($36) - Stylishly packed into a pink snakeskin makeup bag, this five-piece brush set is perfect for traveling, or daily use. The brushes included are: a flat powder brush, an angled shadow brush, a domed shadow brush, a smudge brush, and an angled liner brush. They all work incredibly well--no surprise there!
5. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion ($38) - Last, but not least, this fantastic lotion is always in my medicine cabinet. Since my skin is ultra sensitive and dry, using this lotion daily makes a huge difference to my skin. This is one of those products that everyone needs to own. And what better time to try it than when it comes with a pretty little BCA keychain?
   

All of the products are great and I highly suggest you buy one (or all) of them--it's for a good cause!!

Feeling lucky? I have one Sephora Collection Together in Pink Brush Set to give a reader!

To enter, send an email to sassyalana@gmail.com with the subject line reading "SEPHORA". The giveaway ends 10/21 and the winner will be alerted via email.

Good luck, ladies!

And be sure to check out Sephora for more beauty finds!

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for review & giveaway consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Makeup Tips for Gals with Glasses

Whether you wear glasses because you actually need to see, or because you find them to be super trendy, you've probably had some trouble finding the right makeup routine. Trust me--your makeup options are not as limited as you think! Following the right steps will turn you from clueless nerd to a fashionista in no time.

1. The Base

Glasses will leave unflattering marks in liquid or cream foundation, so switch to a mineral foundation. Use a powder brush to swirl it all over your face and set it with a mineral powder.  

2. Neutral Eyes

When choosing a shadow for your framed eyes, pick one that compliments not only your eyes but also the color of your frames. Your safest choice is a warm, neutral tone that goes with everything. Shimmery shadows are also great and really make your eyes pop. 

3. Delicate Liner

Heavy eyeliner, especially with thick framed glasses, can be a little much. When you're applying eyeliner, mimic the thickness of your frames. To create the illusion of a lifted, youthful eye, make the outer liner thicker than the liner towards your inner eye. 

4. Bold Brows

Your eyebrows are much more noticeable when you’re wearing glasses, so make them stand out! Make sure they are nicely groomed and shaped. Define your brows by using an eyebrow pencil.

5. Mega Lashes

Be sure to use an eyelash curler--this is very important-- to make your lashes look extra glam. The eyelash curler will also prevent them from hitting your lenses (bonus!). Apply two to three coats of waterproof or smudge proof mascara. Be sure your lashes are completely dry before putting your glasses back on.

6. Bright Blush and Lips

Now that your glasses are back on you’ll be able to determine exactly where your blush should go. Try something pretty and pink. Give your pout some punch by finishing with an eye catching lipstick. Red is always classic, but switch it up with bright pink or tropical tangerine.

Wine Not?

I'm totally loving Sally Hansen's latest Complete Salon Manicure polish colors. My fave? The delightfully titled "Wine Not?" polish that looks awesome on all skintones.

Fall usually makes me want to bust out my darker hued polishes, but this year I wasn't really into it as much.  That's why I absolutely adore this new shade.  It's dark enough to be on trend for the season, but also has a bright-ish punch of color to it. It's the perfect shade!

Often times, new nail polish colors come out that really don't go with anything. But this hue is great for any occasion. And it seems to go with tons of my outfits magically, so I'm definitely in love!

I've always loved the Complete Salon Manicure polishes. They come in so many fab colors, and I can usually apply one medium-thick coat for it to immediately turn opaque. It also dries quicker than other nail polishes I've tried.

The one thing that I'm not a fan of is the fact that the polish claims to have a base coat and a top coat built in, so you don't have to worry about applying them. But after trying to sport just the polish, I noticed that it chipped quicker than usual and, because there was no top coat, it didn't look shiny or gorgeous.

Aside from that, this stuff is fantastic! Just make sure to apply your regular base and top coats for the best results.

Each bottle of polish is about $6 and you can find them at most drugstores.

My Latest Obsession: Floral Betsey Johnson Dress

Oh Betsey Johnson, you've done it again!

I've always been a HUGE fan of all things in her collection (especially the handbags!), but I recently found this super cute Floral Strapless Party Dress and I'm absolutely smitten with it.

Teal is actually one of the colors that is in style for the season.  I love it because we don't usually see a lot of bold colors in the Fall.

The cut of the dress and the floral print makes it look a bit vintage and unique, which makes it the perfect dress.

What I really like is the fact that you can wear this for any occasion. Pair it with heels and some earrings with some bling to dress it up, or wear it with flats and a cardigan to dress it down. You can also wear it when it starts to get chilly outside--just throw on a pair of opaque tights!

This dress is definitely on my wishlist (hint, hint). It's a little pricey at $188.00, but because it can be worn for literally anything, anytime, it's really a good investment...or at least that's what I'm telling myself to justify it!

Get Your Glow On! Plus a GIVEAWAY!!!

I've always been a HUGE fan of neon-hued nails. So when I got the Ciaté Corrupted Neon manicure set, I was obviously ridiculously excited to give it a go!

So I went with the pink kit, since--let's face it--pink nails are one of my fave accessories.

Each kit contains a bottle of polish, a bottle of glitter, and a black light top coat.

I really liked the way that the polish applied. It came out evenly and the color was gorgeous. After painting my nails, I went straight for the glitter. It needs to be applied before the polish dries. I knew this would be the trickiest and messiest part, so I set up a bunch of paper towels to do the deed. Basically, the glitter bottle contains loose glitter that is the same color as the polish. You just lightly sprinkle it onto the nail until you're satisfied. At this point, it's time to apply the black light top coat. Again, this applied like a dream! It was thick enough to hold the glitter onto my nails, but not so thick that it took forever to dry.

Here's the end result:

Pretty cute, right? And since different textures are all the rage for nail polish, this matte-ish, almost gritty, glittery look is perfect for Fall! 

Here's a look at what happens with a black light:

It was tough to get a good picture, but I think this shows the bold brightness fairly well.

After you master the look, you can apply the polishes in different, unique ways. The black light top coat works over the neon polish sans glitter, so I suggest trying the glitter on your ring finger as an accent nail. You can definitely be creative!

The sets come in four different colors: pink, yellow, orange, and blue. All of them are fabulous. Each kit retails for $25 at Sephora.

But now for the best part--Ciaté has teamed up with Sassy Fashionista for an amazing giveaway! I've got four kits (one in each color) to give away to four lucky readers! 

To enter the giveaway, send an email to sassyalana@gmail.com with the subject line reading "Ciaté" and include which color you'd like.  You can only enter once for ONE COLOR, so choose wisely! The giveaway ends 10/15 and the winners will be alerted via email.

Good luck, ladies!

Disclosure: This post contains products sent for giveaway consideration. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Blush Rules to Break

When I started wearing blush, I remember somehow knowing random rules...like the fact that you should "never pair bright blush with bright lipstick". And I just went with it.  Blush is particularly tricky, and it can be easy to fall into a rut with it. Most of us are just afraid of looking like a clown, prostitute, or some sort of hybrid clown-prostitute (trust me--they exist).

But of course there have been lots of updates over the years.  Here are a few old "blush rules", and how to break them!

Old Rule: Combat inevitable fading by reapplying blush.
New Rule: Layer on different formulas for extra longevity.
First, apply a primer and follow with a cream blush. Dust a powder blush on top and blend.

Old Rule: Steer clear of bright lipstick if you’re wearing blush.
New Rule: A bold lip and flushed cheeks can be a spectacular duo. Just make sure to pick complementary shades: Match the undertones of your lipstick to the blush and stick within the same color family. That means cool tones go with cool tones and likewise with warm tones. Coral blush and tomato-red lips? Go for it, girl!

Old Rule: Pick a shade and stick with it.
New Rule: Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zoneBright pink shades seem intimidating, but most of them go on fairly sheer. If you’re out to find a harmonious shade for your skin, gently pinch your cheeks and match that shade to your blush color.

Old Rule: Only apply blush to the apples of your cheeks.
New Rule: Blush isn't just for the cheeksFor a natural, unified flush, blend the pigment out towards your ears, dust a bit across the brow bone, and finish with a light swipe down the middle of the nose.

Old Rule: Never wear blush and bronzer at the same time.
New Rule: The pair actually looks great together as long as you don’t go overboard.
Once you've finished putting on blush, apply bronzer where the sun naturally hits your face: forehead, temples, the tip of your chin, and the bridge of your nose.

Beauty Products on the go!

I am SO excited about this!! Benefit has come up with an amazing Glam Up & Away beauty kiosk that includes some of the best beauty products they have to offer. Everything is travel-friendly. The kits are small enough so that even the toughest TSA won’t turn them away. Huzzah!

By the end of 2013, Benefit is planning on having 25 locations where you can buy these fab products when you're in a rush to catch your flight.

Here are a few places that already have this groovy kiosk:

• Austin International Airport
• New York JFK, Terminals 2 & 5
• Savannah-Hilton Head Airport
• Houston International Airport
• McCarren International Airport (Las Vegas)
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport
• Raleigh-Durham International Airport
• Nashville International Airport
• Minneapolis St-Paul International Airport
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

How amazing is this??! I want to go to an airport ASAP just to grab makeup from a vending machine, because--let's face it--there's nothing cooler than that.

I love that beauty is branching out like this. No longer will we have to suffer because we forgot an important makeup product! Benefit comes to the rescue!

Fashion Faux Pas: His & Hers Ugly Sweaters

Umm...you've GOT to be kidding me.

Ralph Lauren (a store I usually love), has decided to sell these absolutely hideous matching his and hers bear sweaters.

There are so many things wrong with this. First of all, the cut--both sweaters look like they're unisex, so they aren't even flattering on any body type. Secondly..a bear dressed up? On an adult's sweater? Am I the only one who thinks this is ridiculously stupid??!

I honestly cannot even imagine seeing a couple out on the town sporting these matching duds.  If I somehow came across it, I would immediately punch both fashion offenders in the face.

I mean, look at the male model:

He is wearing the sweater paired with normal clothing AND he's super cute.  But even he looks like an idiot.  I always say, if the model doesn't look good in something, there's no way that you will.

The worst part? These "popular sweaters" are retailing for about $300.

If you want an ugly sweater, just save yourself the money and stop at the nearest Walmart and take a look around. I'm sure you'll find something comparable for under $10.

How to Avoid a Wardrobe Malfunction

Wardrobe malfunctions can put us in some extremely embarrassing and awkward situations. We've all been there. The worst part is that these malfunctions always "just happen" to occur at the absolute worst times-- I'm talking about when you're out on a date, interviewing for your dream job, or even at an awesome party where every single person you know is watching you.

But luckily there are a few things you can do to prevent looking like a crazed lunatic who knows nothing about fashion!

Make sure your clothes fit you well
It sounds simple, but this is very important. One of the major causes of wardrobe malfunctions are ill fitting clothes. While you might not always be able to tell at a first glance if a certain clothing item has the potential to cause an unwanted surprise, testing out a few dance movements can give you a pretty good idea of what could happen when you start moving around.  Seriously, try dancing around at home for a half hour in whatever you're planning on wearing out.  If your boobs stay in place, and everything else works, you're good to go!

Try layering
If you do decide to opt for a potentially risky item, try layering to minimize the chances of experiencing embarrassing moments.

Avoid deodorant stains
This is one of the worst and it happens to everyone. Using invisible,clear deodorant is a quick and easy fix you that becomes mandatory whenever you are in a situation where you cannot afford to make mistakes. This simple, yet overlooked trick can save you a lot of frustration.

Use nude undergarments
Even though most of us are pretty careful when it comes to selecting lingerie and to avoid fashion faux pas, at times this strategy can backfire. If you are preparing for a event, your best bet is to stick to nude undergarments as these will help you look your best and will allow you to be more relaxed. And if anything pops out, it'll be a LOT less noticeable than, say, a black bra with pink polka dots (even though they are cute!)

Bring a set of safety pins and nail polish
I always have an emergency fashion pouch in my purse. It's helped me out a ton over the years. Safety pins are a must-have. You can save multiple problems by just pinning a strap up, or even pinning a hem that's come undone. If you also carry clear nail polish in your purse you'll be able to prevent tights from running. Apply clear nail polish on both of the ends to minimize the damage before it extends too much.

Bring additional wardrobe
While all the tips should help you eliminate lots of situations that might take an embarrassing turn for the worst, it's best to bring additional clothing with you to be able to avoid stressing to much over your wardrobe and to make sure that everything goes well. Try keeping a simple jersy wrap dress in your car.  They don't really wrinkle and you can wear them no matter what the weather is, or how fancy (or un-fancy) an event is).

Sniff This: Marchesa Parfum d’Extase

I'm so obsessed with fragrances lately. I literally have an entire table in my apartment dedicated to my 50 or so bottles of perfume.

So when I heard about Marchesa's Parfum d’Extase, I was obviously excited to give it a go!

The brand itself has always been amazing, so I was pretty sure I'd fall in love with their first fragrance.  And sure enough, I was right.

The scent is absolutely amazing. I ended up trying the body mist, which in most cases required a lot of spraying for me to be satisfied.  But the quality of this stuff is so great that a little goes a long way.

It's the perfect fragrance for anyone, and for any occasion. I'd describe it as super feminine and definitely floral.  The notes infused in the scent include Iris Flower, Star Anise, Black Current, Young Violet Leaves, Lotus Flower, Night Blooming Jasmine, Bulgarian Rose Water, Orange Blossom, Iris Root, Ambrox, Muscenone.  It sounds like a lot, but trust me--this fab combo makes for an incredible fragrance.

I honestly cannot stop smelling myself...And my boyfriend totally approves!

Marchesa Parfum d’Extase is available exclusively at Sephora and Sephora.com. The body mist can be purchased for $45.

Disclosure: This post contains sample products sent for consideration by a PR company. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.  

Keep Curls Lookin' Pretty With Ouidad!

I'm constantly going back and forth with how I style my hair.  It's naturally curly, but unless I use the proper products, it can end up looking like a frizzy, wavy afro of disgust.

Once I found Ouidad's fab Curl Quencher line, I knew I had something fabulous.

The most amazing products are the Curl Quencher Moisturizing Conditioner and the Curl Quencher Moisturizing Style Gel.

I've been using the conditioner for a couple weeks now and am loving the results. After I shampoo my hair, I apply the conditioner evenly, comb out any tangles, and then let it sit for at least five minutes. When I rinse it out, my hair feels incredibly silky and smooth.  Not something that is an easy feat!

After towel-drying my hair, I've been applying the gel from the shaft to the ends of my hair and scrunching it a bit. Then I let it air dry (if I have the time).

The end result is gorgeous curls without any use of damaging heat-styling, or tons of different products. Love it!!

You can buy the Conditioner for $18 and the Gel for $23.

Disclosure: This post contains sample products sent for consideration by a PR company. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.  

Fashion Week Faux Pas: Plastic Surgery "Fashion" Shows

Fashion Week is a magical time. It sets the trends for the upcoming seasons, inspires style for everyone, and has an amazing amount of power over the fashion world.

Ridiculously enough, this year, a plastic surgeon set up a runway next to the tents at Lincoln Center to stage a show of his "designs" (I'm using the term very loosely). Yes that's right. I'm talking about actual human beings. The show was called Faces of Beauty and actually featured 50 (!!!!) of the doctor's former patients. The people in the show strutted their [new] stuff while photos of their former noses, foreheads, and chins were on full display behind them.

A quote from the surgeon? “There are lot of trends out there. One is the clothes you wear. Another is the face and body you wear. Just like Ralph Lauren introduces his new line, what I am introducing is aesthetically pleasing plastic surgery.”

Well, it's not really the same. Unless you consider flesh to be in the same category as silk and cotton.

And I don't.

Now, I totally understand that there are some people who get plastic surgery simply to feel better about themselves, or to fix something like a birth defect. And I really don't have a problem with people getting a little work done.  What I have a problem with is the fact that a doctor is literally comparing it to clothing.

He even has the trends for next year all sorted out--apparently his show will focus on breast implants, rather than just the face.

I don't even know what to say. People like this are the reason why women feel so insecure and get unnecessary surgery.

I seriously cannot believe that this went on. The name of the surgeon has not been released (apparently, he doesn't seek the fame that other "designers" strive for). But I'm pretty sure that if the name gets around, he'll be dealing with a lot of pissed off people. And maybe I'll do a little surgery on him.

That is all.