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COSTUME FOR COCKTAILS | july 2011

SUMMER CHIC

It’s hot. Time to get creative in the closet in order to keep cool and not sacrifice on looking put together. Thankfully shorts are getting a grown-up makeover.

Take any necklace to new lengths by adding a bracelet as an enhancer, wearing two favorite pieces at once. Necklace with enhancer and James Avery ring, stylist’s own.
Add a pop of color to show your fashion savvy with this preppy blazer that will take you straight through to fall. Pink pique blazer w/gold buttons @ Zara.
This top looks like a basic tee until you turn around and show the world this beautiful crochet.
Understated, yes; memorable, you bet! We The Free gray sleeveless tee w/crochet back @ Soho Boutique.
These shorts are as comfortable as a pair of Soffe but the fabric makes them event worthy. Show Me Your Mumu black elastic waist shorts @ 310 Rosemont.
The neutral tone of these wedges makes legs look forever long and they go with everything in your closet. DVF leather and wood heel wedge @ Neiman Marcus.
A clutch that coordinates with any outfit – plus the gold specs take it from day to night in a flash. Cork with gold spec and bamboo clasp clutch @ Elaine Turner.
This dry oil not only moisturizes and absorbs quickly, it smells divine and provides that extra shiny glow to your gams. Dry Oil Body Mist @ www.ahavaus.com.

 

Elaine Turner – 800 Town & Country Blvd. 713.255.9095Neiman Marcus – 2600 Post Oak Blvd. 713.621.7100Soho – 6592 Woodway Dr. 713.467.9233Zara – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.439.0995

 

Styling by Beatrice Allen | Photography by Gabriella Nissen | Illustration by Alex Rosa

COSTUME FOR COCKTAILS | june 2011

A Season For Festing

 

It’s FINALLY summer – time for heat, concerts, festivals and loads of free time. Look the part with this light, airy bohemian look.

This tee layered over the dress adds a carefree touch that seems thoughtless for that “I just threw this on” effect. Pink Burnout Tee @ Free People
Forget sweating through your nice bras. These bralettes are comfortable and made for the summer heat.

Eyelet bralette @ Free People

The lightweight silkiness of this dress makes even the most unbearable heat manageable. Dress @ Free People
Comfort is key in pulling off the nonchalant boho chic festival look. Thank goodness for us, Birkenstocks are being accepted as cool (and smart) footwear.
Suede Birkenstocks @ Free People

We (plus Editor Carla and all of our girlfriends) can’t get enough of this line. Featured in our shoot as well, the patterns and vibrant colors plus the light weight of these scarves will have you wanting to collect them all too.
Theodora purple feathers scarf @ Neiman Marcus
Be mindful of others, wear deoderant and fight BO! Degree at Target
A purse is the last thing you want to lug around a hot, sticky festival. This belt makes you keep only the absolutely necessary things on you.
Belt bag @ Free People
The moment we saw these it was love at first sight. Any outfit is transformed to boho chic with these beauties.
Turquoise chandelier earring @ J.Silver | Turquoise ring at Elaine Turner Boutiques.

Anthropologie – 800 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N. 713.973.0561

Free People – 5135 W. Alabama St. 713.439.0307
J.Silver – 2412 Rice Blvd. 713.807.1644
Neiman Marcus – 2600 Post Oak Blvd. 713.621.7100
Styling by Beatrice Allen | Photography Gabriella Nissen | Illustration by Alex Rosa

COSTUME FOR COCKTAILS | may 2011

310 Rosemont – 1956 West Gray 713.522.8133

 

High Gloss – 1131 Uptown Park #6, 713.961.7868

 

Target – 2580 Shearn St. 713.331.0376

 

Summertime and the livin’s easy…

 

- Sublime

 

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The top has light padding and ties in the front for a clevage boost. Plus, the bikini bottoms double as shorts with their cute cut.

 

Aquarella peacock bikini @ www.aquarella.com

 

Cut long and loose, this tank provides coverage and ventilation from the heat.

 

Show Me Your Mumu Lace tank @ 310 Rosemont

 

These are not only hand-made but at an unbeatable price (5 for $ 20 thin version, $ 7 large version) –  decorating your limbs will be hard to resist.

 

Kenya bracelets @ High Gloss

 

Bring back the 70’s vibe with these stylish slides brought to you by the people who know feet!

 

Dr. Scholl’s original slide sandal in champagne @ www.drschollsshoes.com

 

Cat-eye sunglasses are the rage this season in keeping with homage to disco glam.

 

Chloe cat-eye sunglasses @ www.gilt.com

 

Always rehydrate your skin after a day in the sun, sand and surf. This slathers on smoothly and absorbs quickly.

 

Nivea Smooth Sensation lotion @ Target

 

Used not only for warmth (or décor), this hippie-chic scarf serves also as a beach blanket.

 

Tie-dye scarf @ 310 Rosemont

 

310 Rosemont – 1956 West Gray 713.522.8133

 

High Gloss – 1131 Uptown Park #6, 713.961.7868

 

Target – 2580 Shearn St. 713.331.0376

 

Styling by Beatrice Allen

 

Photography Gabriella Nissen

 

Illustration by Alex Rosa

 

 

COSTUME FOR COCKTAILS | april 2011

Spring in My Step

One of the most beautiful times in Houston is upon us. Blazing sunlight and mild temperatures have us putting away our coats and digging out our spring attire.

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Loehmann’s can be a fashion savvy’s best friend. Score deals on designer labels like this cute Marc Jacobs top. Marc Jacobs top @ Loehmann’s

To finish off our spin on Nautical, these navy scallop bottom, button-up shorts could not be more perfect. Girly at its finest! Leifsdotter navy sailor short @ Loehmann’s

Navy shoes are hard to find. Cute ones at least. The ruffle along the foot adds to the playfulness of this stylish sailor. Elga pump @ www.ninashoes.com

Always on the hunt for a shampoo and conditioner that actually delivers, this line from Shiseido does that and more. One month in and my hair has never felt softer or shined this much. Shiseido Damage Care Shampoo & Conditioner @ 99 Ranch Market

Spring draws us all out. Capture memories with this novice-friendly camera from Olympus that is not only lightweight but also provides extraordinary HD-quality images. We’re obsessed. Olympus PEN E-PL2 @ Houston Camera Exchange

This Liebeskind Berlin Paula Vintage Handbag in buttery stone-colored leather will take you through spring – and all seasons – in this classic/convertible shape.
Liebeskind Berlin Paula Vintage Handbag @ www.robindira.com

This Liebeskind Berlin Paula Vintage Handbag in buttery stone-colored leather will take you through spring – and all seasons – in this classic/convertible shape.

Liebeskind Berlin Paula Vintage Handbag @ www.robindira.com

Loehmann’s- 9347 Katy Frwy. 713.932.8016
99 Ranch Market- 1005 Blalock Rd. 713.932.8899
Houston Camera Exchange- 5900 Richmond Ave. 713.789.6901
Styling by Beatrice Allen
Photography Gabriella Nissen

COSTUME FOR COCKTAILS | february 2010

feFrench Connection – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.840.0151
J.Crew – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.626.2739
DSW – 2477 Post Oak Blvd.713.871.0142
Tory Burch – 5015 Westheimer Rd. 713.622.5501
Neiman Marcus – 2600 Post Oak Blvd. 713.621.7100

We’re taking a “mental” break from the winter. Over layering and bulk, nautical stripes put us in a vacation state of mind. Spring, where are you?

“Business in the front, party in the back” pretty much sums up this cute but sexy top with cutout back accented with bows. Stripe open back sweater w/ bows @ French Connection

This crop cut is of the moment. Ideal for showing off cute shoes but still sensible for the cold we are trying to forget. Black matte pleated pants @ J.Crew

A slight variation from last month’s wedge (we’re wedge obsessed) the slight details of a lower toe and perked lift make this one just as sexy as any stiletto. L.A.M.B. Suede mushroom wedge @ DSW or www.piperlime.com

Stripes on stripes?! You bet! As long as there is a harmony in color family, the look comes off nonchalant. Stripe scarf @ Tory Burch

The matte metal gives this sparkly necklace a rough, heirloom look. Sparkly necklace @ J.Crew

Not only are we giving the clothes a break, so is our perfume. This floral, summery stunner makes us long for beaches, bikinis and bronze skin.

Limited Edition Bronze Goddess Soleil Eau Fraiche @ Neiman Marcus

LOVERS_PACKAGING

Rock of Ages Press, this duo of scented candles, celebrates great lovers throughout the ages. Our favorite (ok, my favorite) is Dante and Beatrice. Italian fig scent pays homage to their historic partnership: Dante fell in love at first sight and thought of Beatrice as a divine and noble angel. www.roapress.com

French Connection – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.840.0151

J.Crew – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.626.2739

DSW – 2477 Post Oak Blvd.713.871.0142

Tory Burch – 5015 Westheimer Rd. 713.622.5501

Neiman Marcus – 2600 Post Oak Blvd. 713.621.7100

Styling by Beatrice Allen
Photography Gabriella Nissen

COSTUMES FOR COCKTAILS | january 2011

c4c-jan11

Feeling utterly romantic and inspired by Parisians’ easy flair for style, keep the outfit simple and classic with a few
updated accessories.

LA VIE EN ROSE

Feeling utterly romantic and inspired by Parisians’ easy flair for style, keep the outfit simple and classic with a few updated accessories.

This LBD with subtle military details adds the perfect twist to a classic. Little black dress @ Zara

These tights are just as I remember when I was young, SUPER opaque. No see-through, only deep black tight. Super opaque tights @ J.Crew

The pixel-like image of Olive Oyl on this scarf is playful but still sophisticated. Olive Oyl Moschino Scarf @ Loehmann’s

Pearls are updated, attached in layers to a wide striped grosgrain ribbon. Perfect to wear as a necklace or across the body. Pearl necklace @ Anthropologie

My outfit wouldn’t be complete without an ode to the beret. This pom-pom hat in cable knit is cool without coming off as stuffy. Pom-pom hat @ Gap

A wedge is forgiving on your feet but still provides all the height a heel would – minus the discomfort. Black wedge @ Aldo Shoes

Aldo Shoes – 5135 W. Alabama, 713.961.5922

Anthropologie – 800 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N. 713.973.0561

Gap – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.626.8191

J.Crew – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.626.2739

Loehmann’s – 9347 Katy Frwy. 713.932.8016

Zara – 5085 Westheimer Rd. 713.439.0995

COSTUMES FOR COCKTAILS | november 2010

FALLING HEAD OVER HEELS

Styling by Beatrice Valencia | Photography Gabriella Nissen | Illustration by Alexandre Rosa

Styling by Beatrice Valencia | Photography Gabriella Nissen | Illustration by Alexandre Rosa

This paper-thin leather jacket is perfect for Houston’s wishy-washy climate. It makes layering a cinch without adding extra bulk. Mushroom leather jacket @ www.vince.com | Stripes are no longer reserved for warm weather. This blousy top is great for skinny pants and can be layered for transition into winter. Striped top @ Anthropologie | This skinny black pant is no legging. Made from thicker twill cotton with spandex, it’s thick enough to keep you warm minus the “see-through scare” you get with leggings. Pant @ J.Crew | A nude shoe provides a clean line to follow and extend leg length. Nude pumps @ DSW | A statement necklace takes this outfit from ordinary to extraordinary. Necklace @ Anthropologie

“November comes And November goes, With the last red berries And the first white snows. With night coming early, And dawn coming late, And ice in the bucket And frost by the gate. The fires burn And the kettles sing, And earth sinks to rest Until next spring.” –  Elizabeth Coatsworth

Anthropologie – 800 West Sam Houston Pkwy. N., #10-127, CityCentre, 713.973.0561
DSW – 9419 Katy Fwy., 713.465.8923
J.Crew – 5085 Westheimer Rd., 713.626.2739

COSTUMES FOR COCKTAILS | october 2010

We’ve got spirit, yes we do, we’ve got spirit, how ’bout you!

Undecided on your team (like being neutral) or does your team’s colors do nothing for your skin tone? Finding an outfit that is game ready but smart is easy when you stick to neutrals. After all, you can be Switzerland and still know what’s going on in the game!
c4c
Collegiate colors don’t just have to be bought at school stores. Some colors are consistent with fall so you can reuse them minus the blatant regalia.
Honeysuckle stripe cardigan @ Madewell.com
This tee has an accessory built in with its bow along the neckline. No necklace required.
Red Valentino tee @ Neiman Marcus
Jeggings are all the rage for fall so step away from the black and explore your options. Some resemble skinny jeans right down to the pockets and seams.
Joe’s jeans jeggings @ Anthropologie
Cowboy boots are a classic, and vintage finds are already worn in for you.
Vintage boots, stylist’s own. Try Texas Junk Co., 215 Welch St.
Get perfect curls with this clip-less curling rod. Getting used to it takes a bit but once you have it down, fixing your hair will be a cinch!
Conair Infinity Ceramic Curling Rod @ Target
Preppy and messy don’t mix. This nylon bag makes spills easy to clean – and with makeup that can happen often. Monogram your school spirit or a nickname.
John Hart pouch @ The Villager
Anthropologie – 800 West Sam Houston Parkway South, 713.973.0561
Neiman Marcus - 2600 Post Oak Boulevard, 713.621.7100
Target – 2580 Shearn Street, 713.331.0376‎
Villager the Gift Shop – 9311 Katy Fwy. Ste. B, 713.461.2022

COSTUMES FOR COCKTAILS | september 2010

School is in session, which means back to the daily grind. Play with transitional pieces until fall weather makes its appearance. A few slight adjustments and each piece can work for cooler temperatures.

Add a little disheveled edge to your look with a worn-in tee. You’ll find it’s hard to wear a normal one after you get attached to the softness of these. Tart Burnout Tee @ Neiman Marcus

A sophisticated print done in an extra large size makes it less busy but still classic. Leopard Cardigan @ Ann Taylor

A dressy short that with some tights and boots works perfect for fall. Drape Black Short Short @ J.Crew

The moment you see these on your feet, you have to smile. It’s an adult princess shoe that can transform any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary. Miu Miu jeweled flats @ Neiman Marcus

This hippie trend in neutral colors is sure to be a conversation starter as well as your new go-to clutch. Tie Dye Clutch @ Tory Burch

Everyone should have a cute pen in her purse. It’s a small token that speaks volumes on your attention to detail. Note taking has never looked so cute! Jonathon Adler pen @ Paper Source

If you have problematic skin, this line is for you. Talc-free powders and bronzers help keep blemishes at bay. And it’s dermatologist recommended! Physician’s Formula loose powder in light bronze @ HEB

Ann Taylor – 12850 Memorial Dr., 713.973.1196‎
HEB – Bunker Hill, 9710 Katy Fwy., 713.647.5900
J.Crew – The Galleria, 5015 Westheimer Rd., 713.626.2739
Neiman Marcus – The Galleria, 2600 Post Oak Blvd., 713.621.7100
Paper Source – Highland Village, 4016 Westheimer Rd. 713.888.0418
Tory Burch – The Galleria, 5015 Westheimer Rd., 713.622.5501
Styling by Beatrice Valencia
Photography by Gabriella Nissen
Illustration by Cynthia Bogart
Add a little disheveled edge to your look with a worn-in tee. You’ll find it’s hard to wear a normal one after you get attached to the softness of these.
Tart Burnout Tee @ Neiman Marcus
A sophisticated print done in an extra large size makes it less busy but still classic.
Leopard Cardigan @ Ann Taylor
A dressy short that with some tights and boots works perfect for fall.
Drape Black Short Short @ J.Crew
The moment you see these on your feet, you have to smile. It’s an adult princess shoe that can transform any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.
Miu Miu jeweled flats @ Neiman Marcus
This hippie trend in neutral colors is sure to be a conversation starter as well as your new go-to clutch.
Tie Dye Clutch @ Tory Burch
Everyone should have a cute pen in her purse. It’s a small token that speaks volumes on your attention to detail. Note taking has never looked so cute!
Jonathon Adler pen @ Paper Source
If you have problematic skin, this line is for you. Talc-free powders and bronzers help keep blemishes at bay. And it’s dermatologist recommended!
Physician’s Formula loose powder in light bronze @ HEB

COSTUMES FOR COCKTAILS | august 2010

Take your nautical look into evening wear by simply switching up the colors and adding a few updated touches. Nothing looks better in the summer than a nautical-inspired wardrobe.

Take your nautical look into evening wear by simply switching up the colors and adding a few updated touches. Nothing looks better in the summer than a nautical-inspired wardrobe.

This is the perfect sweet scent without being overpowering for the heat. It might be the only sweet scent that I’ve found that is manageable in August!
pureDKNY @ Nordstrom

The detail in this blazer is impeccable. From the buttons to the weave of the fabric, this blazer is a steal.
White military blazer @ Zara

I’m in love with this unexpected twist from navy to black! It also helps you transition the look to fall. LOVE the sparkly sequins.
Nautical sequin stripe tee @ J.Crew

Cropped trouser slacks are a hit this season. Show off your shoe and a bit of ankle in this menswear inspired fit.
Black crop trouser @ Anthropologie

Gray, the super-neutral, is a refreshing update to black shoes. And less harsh against the skin.
Apepazza “Carmella” wedge sling back @ Nordstrom

Have the look of a super-lux earring without the if-I-lose-one-I’ll-die price.
Green sparkly drop earrings @ Charming Charlie

Anthropologie – 803 Town and Country Lane, 10-127 City Centre, 713.973.0561

Charming Charlie – 9403 Katy Freeway, 713.827.9100

J.Crew – The Galleria, 5015 Westheimer Road, 713.626.2739

Nordstrom – The Galleria, 5192 Hidalgo Street, 832.201.2700

Zara – The Galleria, 5085 Westheimer Road, 713.439.0995

Styling by Beatrice Valencia

Photography by Gabriella Nissen

Illustration by Cynthia Bogart