BEAUTY MUST-HAVES

HOW TO ADJUST TO A NEW CITY: IDEAS FOR STARTING …

We recently moved to Atlanta, Georgia and are in the process of learning how to adjust to a new city as adults – it’s tough! It’s not that I’ve never moved to a new city before – in fact I moved to Chicago about 4 years ago after moving to New York City about 12 years prior to that, so this isn’t a new gig to me. BUT, each time I do it, I am surprised by how unsettling, lonely, terrifying, exciting, humbling, adventurous and joyous the experience can be – all at the same time. It really runs the gamut of emotions, so you have to go easy on yourself while you adjust. There are several things I’ve learned along the way that I think might be helpful to others who are in the same situation or who are thinking about taking the leap. Read on for my ideas on how to start anew!

LEARNING TO BEAT THE BIRTHDAY BLUES

Confession: my birthday has always been a quietly sad occasion for me. Not because I’m getting older – that’s bound to happen – but because it’s always felt indulgent to celebrate myself. I’d rather spend that time criticizing who I’ve become because that is what we do as women. It’s dumb and counterproductive and sad. NO MORE. This year, I wanted to be happy and to have a wonderful day – because I was born, because I’m still alive, and because there is much more to do. It was time to let go of the Birthday Blues, once and for all. Read on to see how I did it!

IN PRAISE OF CULOTTES – AND HOW TO WEAR THEM FOR …

ulottes – a man-repelling piece of clothing that only your grandmother can pull off? Or a stylish trend that YOU can pull off? I’ll go with a combo of the two – a cute item to refresh your closet that men definitely do not understand (they don’t get the short pants thing). But I love them and I think they are quite flattering on women. In fact, I’ve been experimenting all summer with a number of ways to wear them for work, play and a night out. Read on for ideas and inspiration to fulfill your own culotte dreams!

FASHION FOR A CAUSE – SHOPPING IN ATHENS, GA

I recently visited my hometown of Athens, GA to see my family for Father’s Day and had such a great time with my parents. Naturally I had to take a little shopping break while I was there, and guess what I found? This adorable cotton dress that is perfect for a summer date night. And the best part of all is that it comes from a store that donates a portion of your purchase to local charities. It’s fashion for a cause and I couldn’t be happier to wear it. Read on to learn more about the best time I had shopping in Athens, GA!

BELLE MEETS WORLD HOSTS THE SINE QUA NON LAUNCH PARTY

I reached a big milestone as a blogger last week – I hosted an event! As I’ve posted in the recent past (here), Sine Qua Non salons in Chicago chose me and three other local bloggers to be the faces of their new Desperate Measures campaign, as well as to help launch their new Siné line of haircare products – by throwing a party! 

BLACK, WHITE AND PUNCHES OF RED

Happy Sunday, dear readers!  I’m sporting a new haircut for summer, straight from Vidal Sassoon, one of my favorite salons for the perfect short bob – every time. To debut my classic cut to the world, I chose one the simplest color combinations to match it – black, white and punches of red to accent the look.