A few months ago I shared a fun Summer updo featuring these oh-so-classic Chignon Clips gifted from Seattle-based France Luxe. If you’re a regular MCLV reader you’ll know that I’m a big fan of a chic updo. I rarely have the time or inclination to “do” my hair so it’s hardly ever worn down without expert intervention.
My childhood love affaire with braids actually began after roughly two dozen viewings of Street Fighter – One of the characters wore her long hair in two French braids and I begged my babysitter to teach me how to braid. I braided my hair daily for MONTHS after that.
Since I’ve moved on from pigtails – Most of the time anyway – Here’s a quick & easy four-step braided updo for you to try!
[1.] Part hair in the middle and French braid one or both sides,
[2.] Finish the braid by pulling in all of your hair, fasten with a clear elastic if you need to,
I met the lovely ladies of France Luxe when I was in Los Angeles earlier this year attending Lucky FABB West. With two of my favorite bloggers in tow we listened to the description of this fun hair accessories company based in Seattle. They have three distinct but equally lovely brands – The classic France Luxe line, the modern & on-trend L. Erickson, and the oh-so-fun & colorful L. Erickson USA line.
The chic, French-made goodies from the France Luxe line were right up my alley so when the company asked if Bethann of Bethanimalprint, Cara of Cara’s Cliché, and I would be interested in doing a Summer hair series together, I enthusiastically agreed.
When my goodies arrived my amazing team got together to document our fashionable hijinks. With a sugar snap peas, hummus & green juice spread in front of us, we worked on coming up with a flattering but simple style to show off these beautiful Chignon Clips.
Et voila!
What I liked must about this simple Spring hair style is how simple it is. During the warmer months you often want to pull your hair back and this is a quick but chic way to do that. In four easy steps!
[1.] Gather and pull hair back,
[2.] Separate into two sections and twist in opposite directions until you come to the end,
[3.] Take the oversized twist of hair and roll into a bun, and finally,
[4.] Secure your twisted bun with a chic Chignon Clip. Or two!
Here are some GREAT things to keep in mind as you’re working through your list of New Years Resolutions for 2013 – The Things Successful People DON’T Do.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been shivering my way through this recent cold front in Northern California. Rain in December I’m used to. Wind & air so cold it feels like it should be snowing? That’s new. If you’re in a similar boat these simple tips can save your booty this Winter – Stay Warm!
Keeping your energy levels up during the way can seem impossible sometimes. Day-to-day you may feel changes due to diet, the amount of sleep you got, stress levels… And while you can’t always control every aspect of your life, there are some things that you can keep an eye on to help with this – Fatigue Facts: 5 Things That Make You Tired.
While I enjoyed all of the “round-up” style posts during December to celebrate the end of 2012 I have to say that this was one of my favorites so I just HAD to share – Best of 2012: My Favorite Vegan & Raw Recipes.
Staying inspired and positive about your body is an important step towards being happy and healthy! See what The Huffington Post has to say about keeping your attitude in check – Seven Ways To Be More Body Positive In 2013.
Fashion:
There’s nothing quite like a flashy new campaign to get you in the mood for some serious shopping. That’s part of the reason we adore fashion magazines, right? Well Fashionologie has the low-down on all the killer campaigns for Spring here.
Finding stylish but simple new updos that’s keep my hair out of my eyes is a new mission so I was thrilled when I stumbled upon this fabulous tutorial – Beauty How To: Braided Bun Tutorial.
I ADORE Winer outwear & accessories so this Glitter Guide post had me in raptures. If you’re similarly inclined head over for their Style File: Chic Winter Wear and prepare to swoon!
If you’ve been trying to find a fabulous statement necklace but have come up empty so far, why not make your own? This DIY Charm Necklace from I Spy DIY is to die for!
There’s an important Friday night ritual that I’d like to share with you – It’s called Date Night. It involves great wine, great food, and great company.
Check out more outtakes from this shoot here – just log into Facebook to view
This is what I wore for my recent trip to Park Tavern SF on Washington Square Park. Our dinner was on the earlier side since I was leaving for NYC bright and early the next day and since it was still light out we decided to take a few shots in the park. We got some pretty funny looks as Sean was directing me so that we could try to get pictures without loungers in the background – but the killer Malbec once we got inside more than made up for it!
Do you like to dress to the nines for date night? Maybe every once in a while? What’s your standard going-out-to-dinner get up for a Friday or Saturday night during the Summer?
Sometimes going to the gym sounds like the worst thing in the world. Sometimes the weather is awful when you were dying to go for a run. Well if you have a set of dumbbells (or you could easily use a kettlebell or weighted bosu ball) you can tackle this rainy day workout!
In the mood for something sweet? Or do you want a treat for family or friends that’s healthy as well as tasty? Check out the super healthy and oh-so-simple Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies over at Peas And Thank You or
I always get excited when I can add a fun new recipe to my rotation of favorites. Something quick, easy, and delicious. Well, if you’re like me, you’ll want to try Choosing Raw’s Curried Quinoa & Aduki Bean Patties – They’re savory and filling, and easily adapted based on the ingredients you have on hand, a home run in my book.
Fashion:
Whenever I want a dose of inspiration one of my go-to websites is WhoWhatWear – From Style Stalker posts to reviews of new collections to street style breakdowns, they’ve always got you covered – Styling Tips For September.
Street style is a fun and evolving part of fashion and fashion blogging and I’ve been enjoying the pictures online for ages – From bloggers to fashion insiders to models to celebrities. It’s a great way to get inspired or to see what’s trendy and hot right now. And with four Fashion Weeks coming up, it’s time to give it a closer look – A Street-Style Primer For The September Shows. Or check out one of my favorite model street style blogs out there for up to date shots from the shows – Altamira: Models Off Duty.
I love vintage-inspired styles and loved this post on finding some great pieces that are perfect for Fall and fabulously retro – Finding the perfect 1970s shoulder bag.
