hotter than what's in your wallet

Anyone who knows about my penchant for color-blocking and knack for turning my morning commute into a runway knows that nothing warms my heart like great collab. Creativity is so very hard to come by these days when everyone is hanging on to the latest and greatest trend. Luckily for me I happen to live with someone whose fashion interest and keen eye for coordination mirrors and in a lot of cases supersedes my own. Fashion is not just what we wear...it shapes who we choose to be on any given day. I'd die for fashion, go bankrupt for it...because it has given me everything I've ever needed to survive: confidence, courage, freedom, autonomy, sacrifice...

For this reason, I have decided to feature an outfit each week here on my blog and leave it to guesses how much dough was put into achieving the look. Just for fun, just for shits and giggles and perhaps just to spread some wonderfully contagious ideas.

My first subject is my roommate. She showcased this vintage mosaic of brilliance to me early last week and I'm thrilled to share her amazing prowess...

How much in total do you think this outfit (shoes, skirt, top) cost? Post a comment with your guess!! Answers will be given at the end of the week.

Week 1: White high waisted skirt, Hot Pink Patent Pumps, Houndstooth Silk top

Want to be featured?! Email 28starsontheceiling@gmail.com with photos of your greatest couture cash-ins!!

october's fire

Steve Madden's Neley in 2-toned black

I've chosen this Fall to be unfaithful to the usual cool weather trend of donning booties with revealing sweater dresses of 346,822,762 colors. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore my booties but...I've completely succumbed to OTK (over-the-knee) madness with my fire pick for October! I can't lie though, I've never been a fan of mid-length boots so much as I've been a fan of booties and thigh-highs. Beware of my boot-prejudice before continuing to read.

Although I feel the name (it's kind of gnarly sounding?) does not do this fab boot any justice in the attractive marketing department, Neley's explosive two-toned (part sturdy leather, part smooth suede) figure more than makes up for this. Available from Steve Madden stores and Nordstrom (also check this site for written reviews), (169.95, retail) this boot is perfect for the impending cold and the ideal fashion choice for the season that challenges us to outfit ourselves in our hottest yet less revealing garb.

  

The Neley is worn perfectly with most Fall outfits, especially body-hugging sweater dresses or a pair of multi-wash jeans and a strong shoulder top or my favorite, a blazer! Any kind of accessory is explosive when paired with this daring boot. Due to the boot's material contrast of leather to suede, heavy metal or multi-shade metallic accessories pair the best. OTK boots instantly up the ante for any fashion statement. 

These boots do not add any color to an outfit which is the first of its 2 pitfalls. They really only serve to accent legs and embolden your image. The second pitfall is the 1.25 inch platform at the front of the boot. In terms of trend history platforms fall in and out of it more regularly than a 3-month old baby cries. Not that I'd be so worried about this being that platforms will always be back "in" because history repeats itself.

peace, love and shoes

must-have madness!!!

"Big thanks to Camille for letting me share in the beauty madness - I hadn't really thought about it too much from this angle before and I think it's great to let people know what's really necessary (IMO of course) and what's just gravy." 
-Dana Wooster

For the first time, I've fully collaborated with another blogger/fabulous make-up artist to deliver a comprehensive report on 20 of the best beauty must-have products, tried and true! Most of these are practical in terms of price range (all retail prices listed are averages) and both Dana and I tried to give you multiple options per category to consider just in case you are watching your wallet this Fall. Everything listed has been tried by us personally. Items listed together accomplish the same beautifying task. If that's not enough...we even tell you where you can find all of these. Lehhhh gooooo....

eyes

"If you're wearing mascara there's really no reason for other eye products (unless you're feeling fancy). It makes your eyes pop and stand out, even from behind glasses." -Dana

1. Cover Girl Lash Blast Length mascara, $8.99 (available at most drugstores, Target & Ulta)

"Light enough to serve as the perfect base mascara...separates lashes effectively and holds them in place for your top coat (note: I like to layer my lashes with a more prominent mascara, I start with something light like this so as to set my lashes first). Can also be used on a day where you want to go light on your sexy." -Camille

2. Maybelline Stiletto Lash mascara, 9.49 (available at most drugstores, Target & Ulta)

"Perfect top coat mascara. Adds bold, rich color and drama without the clumps, smudges or catfights." -Camille



3. for Mascara, Dana recommends a product like -L'Oreal Telescopic mascara, $9.49, or Rimmel Lycra Lash Extender, $7.49 (available at most drugstores, Target & Ulta)

 

4. for Black Eyeliner, Dana recommends a product like - Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil (in 061 Jet Black), $3.99, or Sephora Waterproof Kohl Liner (in 01 Keep Black), $9 (most drugstores, Target & Ulta or Sephora)

"Very important if you have the time/money. You can use this to take a look from day to evening either just by lining your tight and water line OR by using it to create a smudged out cat eye (note: the tight line is the inner rim of the upper lash line and the water line refers to the inner rim of the bottom lash line)." -Dana

5. Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Fatigue Eye Cream, $12.99 (available at most drugstores)

"Cheap alternative to most products featured as part of the late "Everyone-Needs-Anti-Aging-Products-Now" binge. Non-greasy and so effective that you'll notice a change within 3-4 days." -Camille

6. for Eyebrows, Dana recommends a product like - Maybelline Brow Styling Gel Clear, $5.79 or e.l.f. Studio Brow Kit, $3.00 (most drugstores, e.l.f.)

"First let me say there's nothing like getting your brows professionally waxed/threaded if they're a little unruly. It sets the base for you to groom them yourself and take care of them in the future. The Maybelline Brow Gel is fantastic for keeping stray hairs in line and the e.l.f kit has a tinted wax to both shape and fill in your brows, as well as a coordinated powder to set everything." -Dana

"Your eyes tell every story first...before you even open your mouth." -Camille

face

"I think it's good to talk about my skin and what I'm looking for in my must-haves...I have oily acne-prone skin that scars easily. Sounds fantastic right?...I look for must-have products to keep all those issues in check and still let me leave the house looking put together enough for anything..." -Dana

7. St. Ives Apricot Blemish and Blackhead Control Exfoliator, $6.49 (available at most drugstores)

"A timeless beauty favorite! Great for ridding your face of dead cells, excess oil and dirt...especially good before a heavy make-up application or heavy duty face mask." -Camille 

 8. for a Gentle Face Wash, Dana recommends a product like - Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, $7.99 or Body Shop's Seaweed Deep Cleansing Facial Wash, $12 (available at most drugstores, Body Shop)

"No start or end of the day is complete without a clean canvas and a gentle cleanser like either of these will remove make-up and make sure your skin is left fresh and not irritated." -Dana

9. for a Facial Moisturizer, Dana recommends a product like -Neutrogena Sunblock Lotion SPF 60+, $11.99 or DDF Mattifying Oil Control UV Moisturizer SPF 15, $42 (available at most drugstores, Ulta & Sephora)

"Every day, rain or shine, you should use a moisturizer with SPF. This protects your skin from wrinkles and other advanced signs of aging as well as make sure whatever make up you put on next looks its best – because your skin does. I know it’s hard to believe, but oily skin needs to be moisturized to prevent it from getting even oiler. Same goes for those of the darker persuasion: you can still burn, get wrinkles, and get skin cancer so SPF is a must." -Dana

"Great pick Dana! It's common for those with oily or acne prone skin to think that a facial moisturizer is unnecessary just as it's common for those with darker skin to think a product with SPF is an option; untrue!" -Camille

10. for a Concealer, Dana recommends products similar to - e.l.f. Studio Concealer, $3.00 or M.A.C. Pro Longwear Concealer, $16.50 (e.l.f., M.A.C. Stores)

"Due to some under eye circles and acne scars concealer is a must for me. Luckily, either of these babies will give you nice buildable coverage that will make foundation an option and not a requirement." -Dana

11. for Pressed Powder, Dana recommends - Maybelline Dream Matte Powder, $8.99 or M.A.C. Mineralize Skin Finish Natural, $26.00 (available at most drugstores, M.A.C. Stores)

"Both of the powders here will reduce shine and are perfect for adding just a tiny bit of coverage (good for evening skin tone) that helps you get out the door that much faster." -Dana

face: c o l o r

12. Make Up For Ever's HD Microfinish Blush, $25 or Powder Blush, $19 (available at Sephora)

"I always say that a girl needs at least one blush in a loud color. It's an easy way to make a statement without piling on make-up unless you are in a pile-on mood. This line has several colors to choose from. Bright and dramatic = perfect for your fall nights out and Winter holidays. I personally recommend the Microfinish in Innuendo and 2 Caught in the Act. Both can be found at Sephora." -Camille

13. for All Over Color, Dana recommends - e.l.f. All Over Color Stick, $1 or NARS Multiple Tine, $38 (e.l.f., Sephora)

 

"All over color sticks allow you to add a touch of color to both your cheeks and lips. Dab and pat my friends, dab and pat. Perfect for travel either of these options will leave you looking more awake and ready for the day." -Dana

lips

14. Laura Mercier Rouge, $22 (available from Sephora)

"This collection of lipstick boasts fresh, dark, and seductive colors to complement all extremes of any Fall color palette you subscribe to, whether your preference be light cinnamon colors or faded reds. Color wears well and stays on well. Should your heart desire, Matte options are available." -Camille

15. M.A.C. Rouge, $15 or Revlon Colorburst LipColor, $8.99 (M.A.C. Stores, most drugstores)

"Available in colors galore...on the cheaper side." -Camille

 body & hair

16. Tarina Tarantino's Sparklicity Pure, $19 or Sparklicity Shimmer Dust, $39 (available at Sephora)

"From Tarantino's own Sparkle Factory, because even during a season regularly complemented by darker colors...you need balance, shine AND sparkle. So as not to break the bank, Sparklicity can be easily (and cheaply) applied with a large blush brush that you probably already have!" -Camille

17. Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Fast Dry Nail Color, $4.99 or Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure, $7.99 (available at most drugstores)

"A consistent pioneer for "quick and easy" beauty, Sally Hansen hit a jackpot with these 2 quality nail color lines. Several colors to pick from and the Insta-Dri colors actually dry in under 3 minutes, I swear! The complete manicure collection provides for full & flawless color...but only if you wait." -Camille

 "Typically the only positive about the cooler months is that hair is not affected by humidity or chlorine from pool water. However, the drop in temperature introduces us to an entirely different challenge...one of how to deal with lost of moisture, split-ends, and general all-around hair health." -Camille

18. L'Oreal VivePro Shampoo/Conditioner, $4.99 (available most drugstores and grocery stores)

"I tried this once because like most people, I typically dye my hair in the Fall. I found a recommendation for it in Cosmopolitian. It totally lived up to the recommendation of sustaining my hair's natural composition and my color stayed fuller longer without any noticable fading." -Camille

19. Herbal Essences Long-Term Relationship, $8.99 (available at most drugstores and grocery stores)

"Perfect for long hair that could be prone to split-ends. Use before blowdrying or styling. It also smells amazing!" -Camille

20. Grund Tiger Reconstructive Spray, $28

"I worked at Tranquility Day Spa and Salon awhile back and this line of hair care products was exclusively sold there. Products for all types of hair are available but this particular spray is incredible in that it replenishes the protein in one's hair; protein is extremely vital for hair health and growth specifically. As hair gets longer it becomes less healthy and more difficult to care for by default. This product also adds excessive volume which could be a good...or a bad thing depending on your desired style. For best use, spray in hair post-wash, cover head with a plastic bag or shower cap, then sit under the dryer/or run a blowdryer around your head for approximately 15 minutes, then style. Hair is noticably softer and more manageable afterward." -Camille

Be wooed...Ms. Dana Wooster, a graduate of Duke University c/o 2008 and a native of Raleigh, NC, has been interested in makeup ever since an unfortunate 'pink face' incident involving her older sister in grade school. That love continued through high school, but it was near the end of college that she really started to become interested in the background behind the art form. Now she spends her time switching it up between her day admin job and her night makeup passion...no friend is safe from the sudden drive by makeover! Her favorite makeup items are mascara and lipstick but she feels no look is really complete without a great pair of earrings. Some photos of Dana's work can be viewed here.

peace, love, and makeup

august's fire

Gray is the new black, the new pink, the new hot, the new chic. From Aldo for $90 (retail), Sangrey provides a brilliant combination of both suede and rich gray color. This pairing is perfectly subtle and bold simultaneously just as the transition of Summer to Fall emulates. 

The shoelaces/shoeties remind me of a gorgeous shoe from H&M (third page of Shoes - 2nd row, 1st column) that I fell in love with back a few months ago. This is obviously not the first time that shoelaces have been a part of shoe fashion but I'm really digging it for the Fall since bondage and ties are typically a part of the wear for cooler weather. It will definitely add a twist to your more subtle and/or minimalistic pieces or ensembles.

I tend to be a fan of wider peep toe so I am additionally impressed with how the slimming design is maintained in lieu of the wider opening at the point.

Obviously I couldn't be more pleased with it...fire.

peace, love, & shoes

july's fire

I'm not all that proud to admit that I probably rocked my first real pair of heels right before I turned 19. I was inspired by my first college roommate to expand my horizons and with the nightlife at UVa this wasn't hard. I really and truly found my style by shopping around and actively researching the fashion concerns of women with my body type; hourglass. Since my first year at UVa I've come from being a sometimes confused experimenter to a comfortable exemplar. A point that I think many women miss about fashion is that its not just about glitz and glamour...it's about practicality, cost effectiveness, and comfort. For example, I'm obsessed with V-t's (V-neck t-shirts, American Apparel is best) because they are extraordinarily comfortable and they are versatile for a glitz and glamour kind of evening or something simple like running errands. Anyways, I'm aware that shoes are most every woman's fetish but I don't think there is enough sharing about what actually works.

Being fortunate enough to have a job fresh off the lawn of Thomas Jefferson's academic village has granted me a chance to gain experience in a field I absolutely do not foresee remaining engaged in while giving me a baseline from which to judge my future desires for a certain type of career. I have decided that I need to be doing something (rather soon) that I really love and that is creative. I have decided that I need to find my way to fashion school.

It's been a decision in formation for several months. Not only do I have the drive but much unlike other life plans I try to make I can stomach the fact that in order to achieve this I really do need to have patience. Part of my drive to be a part of fashion is because women need shit that actually fits and fits well. Most clothing on the market is sold in a Forever 21 format (mass distribution of cheap clothing that you can't return) and women just bare with it because there aren't many cheap places to find something quick and easy for an occassion. So I've reinvented the confused experimenter and I've been trying the fashion world on for size....

Blogs with tips and personal anecdotes have definitely helped me with my fashion frustrations. So here it goes...

My shoe recommendation for July, as in July's FIRE shoe is:


Michael Kors KORS original Suede Glitter pump, retail: $195


Now I can speak on this and not on condition of anonymity because I wear them! I often see women jump at the opportunity to buy 4 pairs of shoes or 4 dresses for $200 rather than one quality pair of shoes or dress for the same price. I know most of us are concerned about trends but we are also concerned about our bank account. Now I can't name a specific solution for that worry being that its real and there'll never be a way to keep up fully with fashion trends without dedicating part of your 401k to the cause...however, my solution is that I am a minimalist stylistically.



I rarely rock patterns or intricate pieces...I am not a millionaire so I have to make the most of my wardrobe and minimalism is the best way to go if I want to maximize my options for the time being. Simple prints that boast shape or cut changes such as solid color one-shoulder or low back dresses will ALWAYS go with a pair of solid or eclectic heels that combine a max of 2-3 colors. Obviously black goes with anything...but too much black is NEVER good. No really it never is.


I don't believe that closed toe pumps get the attention they deserve in the Summer. Most women are looking for the same 6-inch strappy sandal in all 10,247 colors available. To stretch your dollar, invest in a pair of heels that you can wear multiple times with most things that you own, and that you know will last.

Glitter, a KORS original are tried and true! True to size, they are sure not to fall off but I don't find that they suffocate my foot, especially in the toe box. Adding approximately 4.5/5 inches to your height, the heel is strategically placed at the very back of the pump. This provides for more ankle support than the average heel, which abandons its rightful post about an inch from the rear usually. To me there is nothing better than a simple, rich, and sexy pair of pumps that would do justice to really any outfit. You can walk around in these for hours. I promise!


I am NOT saying that these shoes don't need to be broken in...they most definitely do but they are totally worth the investment.

While I aim to partake in the fashion industry's endless race for superiority for the purpose of exhuming my creativity I also want to design a line of practical clothing for women with small breasts and fat asses. Yep, just like me. I have a method that has not been used in clothing design previously.

But before I get there I'll be silently cultivating my craft within the walls of my apartment, building my portfolio, sketching pieces, making plans to relocate, learning to sew! and attending fashion school.


I really can't wait to learn how to sew...

stay tuned.