About Me

My photo
Mama of 3 beautiful, loving, compassionate girls. Wife to an awesome man. Granddaughter, daughter, sister, auntie, friend. My journey to living a cleaner, gmo free, much more "natural" life. Mother Nature is my religion. From a sheep in the herd, to a free thinking mama of three girls! I will share info here that I find interesting about pregnancy, birth, babies, breastfeeding, kids, food, beauty & style! "When you learn, teach"- M.Angelou

Thursday, March 31, 2011

It was January 2010...I was a stay at home mom of a 2 year old daughter, Ava, and 7 month old daughter Sophia. My husband works his cute lil tushie off for our family- mostly overseas- so I found myself alone a lot...well, not ALONE....I had two, poopy, sometimes pukey, cute, loving, amazing little girls with me....but I starting talking to myself....not a good colour on anyone....

I NEEDED something for just mommy. I thought, if I have to change ONE more diaper, do ONE more load of stupid ******* laundry (Which I obviously HATE doing- it's the putting away part that gets me.) or cook one more meal, that they won't even flippin' eat- they throw on the floor, which I then get to WASH...YAY ME!- I would go postal.

We have dear family friends, who we love, love, love-and she was a rep for a Jewelry company, and thought it was something I should try. I wasn't into it. Here's why.
  1. I hate selling.
  2. I hate home parties.
  3. I LOVE the ease of online capability, and that company, just didn't have it. (I actually went online to sign up, but you had to call first, fill out forms, blah, blah- lost me right there.
  4. I wasn't in love with the line. Don't get me wrong-it's very nice, but it wasn't ME...and I knew I would not be successful representing something I wasn't completely head over heels in love with.
It was maybe a couple days after my failed attempt at trying to sign up for the other company, when my friend asked me if I would host a "Stella & Dot Trunk Show" for her. I said yes- I didn't know what that was, but I wanted to support her. Then she sent me the link to her website. I IMMEDIATELY signed up online. Literally. I think I looked at the website for MAYBE 2 or 3 minutes. I knew that I wanted more than the typical $250 in free that hostesses get. I wanted it ALL. And that's what I did. I signed when there wasn't a $450 special on, so I quickly spent the $350 in free when signing up, and definitely didn't waste the 50% off. I called my friend and cancelled my trunk show..."Sorry, but I just signed up under you!" She had been only signed up for a couple days, so I told her not to worry about "training" me, I'd figure it out. And that's what I did. She was great, helped me with the questions I couldn't find myself-and HER sponsor, and HER Sponsor's sponsor-everyone-they were all so helpful! But the online training is unbelievable.

I decided to at least try to make back my investment. If I did a couple trunk shows, and pay off what I spent, the worst that would come of it, is that I'd have a ton of free, AWESOME jewelry.

Those "couple" trunk shows turned into over $52,335.00 this year. So, my personal commission, was money I made by having a glass of wine with great women, and trying on jewelry. Seriously.

I now have a team of 39 and counting...did you know you make "Coaching commission" on your team? So...2011 is going to be a great year. Not only for me, but for my team. I want the amazing women on MY team to each have 20+ women on THEIR teams. Because we are changing the world one necklace at a time. Think I'm crazy if you want, but this "little business" of mine, has changed my life. I have gotten ME back. I don't wear jogging pants every day anymore. (Comfy yes, but you feel like a pile of ****. Admit it....I mean, I feel SO much better, when I'm dressed like a grown up, with beautiful jewelry on, than when I'm wearing old sweats.)

Not everyone has to do it full time like I do. (MY full time right now is about 15-30 hours a week, depending on the week.) You can fulfill a huge part of yourself doing it VERY part time. I can't tell you how much I love Stella & Dot, and how incredibly GRATEFUL I am for coming across this opportunity.

Are you wondering if you "can do it"? If you can see yourself doing 4, 90 minute trunk shows a month- Signing as a Stylist may be for you!  Get $350 in free jewels when you start YOUR business! You are so not alone in this. We have an AWESOME network of women! (I have made some of the most amazing friendships) I would love to help you. Give me a call-it may be the call that changes your life.



~style YOUR life at http://www.stelladot.com/sites/rjohnson/our-opportunity~

xoRJ

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Lights, Camera, Action!

The awards season may be over in the States, but I can't wait until after the Juno's...I need to talk Academy Awards Style!

Shimmer, Sheer, and Ruby Reds!
Colour and Couture ruled the red carpet!

First up!  

Anne Hathaway.

She wore so many gorgeous outfits, (6 gowns, and one CUSTOM made tux) but the one dress I wasn't impressed with, was the dress she wore on the red carpet. She was the HOST! She could have picked any dress in the world, and she chose a (beautiful, don't get me wrong) Valentino, DIRECTLY off the runway- from 2002. For me, I didn't have the WOW factor.


In my opinion, she should have worn the Electric blue dress from Armani Prive! Custom Satin, and just delish! (Did you know that the FAB Rachel Zoe styled her?)

NEXT!

Sandra Bullock

Beautiful dress, by Vera Wang- but she NEEDED statement earrings.

Smokin' body, perfect complexion- but something is missing! I think that Stella & Dot's PETRA FRINGE STATEMENT EARRINGS and BRACELET would have worked perfectly. The dark metal against this red, would have been beautiful! Thoughts?
Click here to buy

Click here to buy!

Ok, this next look will not please the tabloid crowd, and the majority of viewers, but the fashion crowd swooned over Kate Blanchett in Givenchy. I love this, it is straight off the Spring Couture 2011 runway. I LOVE the green with the lavender. It is a piece of art, not meant to be sexy, meant for fashion, in the true sense of the word.


One of my FAV looks was from Jennifer Hudson. She was SMOKIN' in Versace! The tangerine dress, was stunning with her beautiful skin. She was wearing purple shoes with the dress, which I think is adorable!


I also thoroughly enjoyed Mila Kunis in Elie Saab Haute Couture:


But my NUMBER ONE look of the night!
Gwyneth Paltrow in CALVIN KLEIN 
Pure perfection. It looks like liquid metal. Her hair was perfect. Gorgeous, LOVE it, all around.




Now, onto my worst dressed list:

 Helena Boham Carter

I loved her in 'The Kings Speech',  but what the hell...she has the worst taste...but it's Helena Boham Carter, could I expect anything more from her?


Marisa Tomei

Ugh. Do I even need to say anything about this monstrosity? Horrific. Terrible cut, TERRIBLE hair. She has a hot body, and this is just aweful. It looks like she got her hair done at a Beauty School, and then brushed it out. (no offense to beauty school attendees, but it's the bloody OSCARS.)

(I am hopped up on T3's from a serious ear infection-in both ears- ewwww! - So forgive me for spelling mistakes or whatever...)

 Much love,
xoRJ

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

clASS

Has anyone ever seen "Real Housewives of New York"? Did you see the one with the "Countess", or "Dutchess" or whatever she was... ("was", because she is now divorced...) Anywhoo.......the episode where she sings her "hit" song "Money can't buy you class"?-I think that's what it's called- Ummm, look for it on you tube if you are REALLY  bored. As I flipped channels, and caught it, it made me laugh....




It's true...either you got, or you don't. If you don't, you CAN have it...but that means you have to grow up. Stop being so damn selfish. Stop blaming everyone else, and be able to admit when you've done something wrong....when someone approaches you with a problem, do you attack back, or do you HEAR what they say, and wonder how you can repair what they feel you have done to them?  That latter of the two is classy. If you are the first option...you are an asshole....there is a gray area...one I want to elaborate on, but I'll take the high road, and leave it at that.


Speaking of clASSy.....WHAT is up with 14 year old girls...(ok, who am I kidding- it's TEN YEAR old girls now, isn't it?) dressing like prostitutes? Hooker clothes on ANYONE is a bad colour, but seeing a 10 year old's butt when she bends over to pick up her Polly Pocket, because her skirt is too short- IS NOT OK.

Attention mothers: it is time to bring back the ruler. Start measuring skirt hems. Do you want to be a grandmother? Then tell her to get back in her room right now. She is not leaving the house dressed like that. No, no- if your daughter is under the age of 15, she should be wearing a JUSTIN BEIBER tee, and jeans- sans whaleback.  

NOTE: If you are over the age of 18...or you have children of your own...do NOT wear a Justin Beiber shirt. That is creepy.

If you let your daughter dress like this...congratulations- You are a horrible freaking mom.
Stay clASSy readers,
xo
-Rach

*** I forgot to add...Ed Hardy is not cool. Skulls and crap aren't "Stylish". Don't shoot the messanger. I have stuff with skulls- hoodies, Harley Davidson tees, and I wear them, but I know I don't look "Stylish" , that's all.


If you are trying to look "Classy", don't not wear any of the following:
Fake Chanel= tacky

Guns= not cool.

I wouldn't be caught dead wearing something like this. Just sayin'.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Let down your long hair.....

Are you trying to grow out your hair...but not having much luck? Here are a couple tips:

  •  Do NOT wash your hair every day. It seriously dries it out. Start skipping a day, then skip tow days, and three days. Wash your hair every 3-4 days. It will take your body a couple of months to figure this out, but your scalp will get used to it eventually. The truth is- your Scalp and your hair need the essential oils produced during the day. You probably think it's gross, (unless you already do it) but it will make your hair MUCH healthier. (PS: You don't NEED expensive dry shampoos to get through the "no wash" days. Mousse and AEROSOL hairspray applied at the roots will dry up the oil.) -Straight hair will get oilier quicker than curly hair.-
  • Use an intense repair conditioner on your ends. Leave it on for about 10 minutes. If you are trying to avoid cutting (or even trimming) make sure you do this. Otherwise, your ends could die, and fall off. Leaving you in the "My hair never grows longer than this" stage.
  • To get through the 3rd or 4th day, wear your hair up, and use aerosol hair spray. (Aerosol is dry, compared to pump spray, which is wet.)
The above may be really hard for you to even IMAGINE doing, but in 6 months-a year from now, when you have the healthiest, shiniest hair  at your play date....you'll thank me.

xo
-Rach

Thursday, February 17, 2011

That's Amore`....

Ahhh...soon, the snow will melt, and the Uggs will be put in the closet again...far out of sight...and my strappy sandals and sky high heels will reign again! I am dreaming of it. So much cold, and snow, and ice...I have yet to slip and break anything because of "inappropriate" footwear. When my daughters are in University, I am OUT of here. You will find me somewhere warm, wearing my open toe heels...strappy wedges, sexy sandals...all.year.round. I like boots too...but high boots...or leather boots...sexy boots...NOT winter boots. I very much dislike winter all together actually..and really, who doesn't? Ok..there are one or two people who like the freezing cold, and think the snow is "pretty"...the ONLY thing I like about winter is snowboarding...and I haven't gone once this season! (BOO!)

Anyway, the Spring 2011 shoe trend is kinda a take on last season, so we can all rejoice! There hasn't been a huge change, so if you aren't huge on shoes (really???) you can continue on with what you have. Unless they looks like this:

NEVER let anyone tell you that these are cool.
I love mixing materials...leather & wool...lace & leather...I really like leather.....so why not with my shoes! My husband was just in the back room, and saw a rather "new" pair of shoes....(his eyebrows lifted...) "I've never seen theses before?" he said; "Why don't you blog about shoes with wood paneling?" Haha...who had a wood panel station wagon or mini van growing up? C'mon...I know some one had one! I love it...ok, not the van...but wood on shoes! So cute! And can be matched with pretty much anything! A little dress, a long dress, a tee and shorts- a blazer and jeans! And image that they were wedges...ahhhh.... I love shoes. More than make up. When I start making more money than my husband, and I am paying the mortgage- I am going to have a room just for shoes. It will be beautiful. I honestly don't even care if you are judging me right now. Do you think it's selfish for wanting that? That's nice of you. I also donate to the Mustard Seed, and to Stars Air Ambulance, so there. Let me dream of my shoe shrine.


You know you want one too...
Hot trend for when the snow melts ladies:

Like I said- STRAPS. The more there are, the better!


By: Free People
Trieste Espadrille Wedge
Style: 20388575


CLOGS
Chanel
Clogs with heels. Not flat clogs...those are known as "CROCS". Wear crocs, while in the garden....never anywhere else...



PLATFORMS
Suede & Wood- Chanel Spring/Summer 2011



KITTEN HEELS
Are apparently back...but I'm not a huge fan. They really do nothing for an outfit. They can be more comfortable (but not always) than their 6" counterpart....when wearing kitten heels, keep them pointy...they work best with 60's inspired outfits...thanks "Mad Men". (No hate mail, I heard it's a great show...I'm just sayin'- that show made quite an impact on the fashion scene.)

I love Audrey...so for her, and her only...I will wear a pair of Kitten heels.
That's all for now....until we meet again......

xo
Rach

Sunday, February 6, 2011

If you need to cry, go outside.

“Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn.” Gore Vidal

Fashion comes after style. I think, to be stylish is one thing, to be fashionable is another. Style is eternal, but fashion fades.


Women who are NOT stylish:
  •  Bitches. You can be in the most expensive Chanel tweed jacket, with your long pearls hanging, but if you are a bitch-keep walking sister. Get you nose out of the air! Who do you think you are?! I can't stand women who look down on others...who can't smile for the life of them. I want to knock their lights out... (***violence is not the answer, I know.) Seriously though- we all know a few, who think they are better than everyone else...who sneer at others, and try to make them feel like less of a person, in hopes that it will make themselves look or feel better. Guess what honey? You look like an idiot, and no one likes you. How stylish is having no friends? Not at all.
  • Cry babies.  "Crying over what's gone won't find the present."-Edwin Louis Cole. People who complain, and cry about everything is NOT attractive, nor is it stylish. I can be quite the drama queen sometimes, and yes, I am sensitive...(why so hard to believe?) but sometimes, you need to just SHUT UP. It's not all about you. What you are going through may not be as bad as the person sitting next to you. Obviously, what you may be experiencing could be HORRIFIC. And in that case, you need to cry. Crying can be very healing. What I have a problem with, is when someone who is going through something, that in the grand scheme of things, doesn't matter a whole lot- the bigger picture of LIFE...let's say...for example- their cat dying, (I know...you loved your cat. I'm sorry for your loss.) they go insane. They plaster it all over facebook- they text everyone they know that their life is now over, and what is the point of going on. Are you fucking kidding me? Mourn it. Talk with a friend, if that helps you move on. But MOVE ON. It was a cat. Or a boyfriend. Whatever.
"Leave Britney alone!!!"
  •  Insecure people. We all have insecurities. I have daily battles with mine. It's life. But at some point, you have to move past what you don't like (or hate) about yourself, and focus on what you love. There HAS to be something you love. Look at your slender, long fingers- damn girl, you could be a hand model!!! (did the link work?) Find something to be confident about. NOT BITCHY, confident. Hold you head high-not your nose in the air. Slap a smile on your face, and shake your tail feathers. Here's a test for you...everywhere you go today, or tomorrow- can you smile at EVERY person you come across? Every person. Can you? Try it...consciously think about smiling at people as you go through your day....and maybe buy the person behind you in the drive thru at Tim Horton's their coffee...that $2 will make their day.

    I think I need some Vitamin D and a coffee...this was a grumpy post. But c'mon. Always looking at the dark side of life, and having the "poor me"'s" will get you nowhere. I promise you that. And after awhile, people will have no compassion for you, because every day you are complaining about how horrible your life is.....or making fun of everyone else....or hiding in a corner, because you don't like your nose, or some superficial stupid thing, that doesn't matter. It doesn't matter. Every day is a gift...and if you are wasting days crying over spilled milk and being single, I will tell you how it is. Don't come to me for advice if you don't really want it. If you're looking for someone to boo hoo with you, and tell you how great you are, and how horrible everyone else is...keep movin'- I am not that person. I WILL, however, tell wonderful people how wonderful they are.


    I will try to focus on the fashionable side of style next time...maybe make it a lil funny?
    Whatever, take it or leave it.


    Grumpily yours,
    Rach
    xoxo

    "Congratulations!
    Today is your day.
    You're off to Great Places!
    You're off and away!

    You have brains in your head.
    You have feet in your shoes.
    You can steer yourself
    any direction you choose.
    You're on your own. And you know what you know.
    And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."

    -Oh the places you'll go, by Dr.Suess

    Thursday, February 3, 2011

    Make it or break it.

    We've talked clothes, we've talked confidence, we've talked gunts, and we've talked hair.

    Now-on to the make up. I LOVE make up. I LOVE it!!! I love every aspect of it. I love applying it, I love playing with different looks- I love that my make up can reflect my mood, or change the feel of an entire outfit!

    In high school, I would do the make up for my school plays. I wanted to own a Salon "when I grew up"...I also love hair, but my drama teacher told me I should go into make up artistry.  You have to be damn lucky to get a good job in that industry...so low, and behold...here I am, blogging. :)

     DO YOU UNDERSTAND HOW MUCH I LOVE MAKE UP!?!?!?!

     There have been points in my life, where men have said "You don't need make up? Why do you wear it? You're beautiful as you are." I get completely offended. It's nice of them to say that- but I don't care what the hell they think. Doing my make up, is a part of the day that I thoroughly enjoy. In the mornings, my daughters come into my room, and play with my brushes- Dorothy*, the younger of the two, tries to eat my bronzing beads...and Stella* the three year old tells me I look beautiful.

    I know what's gonna happen- there are some of you reading this going "Oh my god. That's horrible. HUNNY! Come read this! This twit is instilling horrible values in her poor daughters! They are going to think that beauty is completely superficial." Shut up. That is not at all how it is. I love all things fashion-and make up is a part of it. I find it FUN. Like some of you find...baking...fun...or gardening...fun. Fortunately for my daughters-their god mother is a fabulous baker, and their grandmother is a terrific gardener. SO- one of our bonds, will involve fashion and beauty. Get over it. (As blunt as I am on here, I am an ok person. I do care about most* people, and try to put others before myself where applicable. BEAUTY comes from the inside, blah, blah. We all know that-RIGHT!? NO emails please.)

    This is NOT my daughter. I don't even let me daughters "play" make up. They can watch mummy...and maybe when they're 13...we'll start with a little blush....my husband is crying in the corner, thinking of them as 13 year olds, wearing blush.
    Now...On to the trends for Spring 2011!



    For your eyes only:
    Pretty Pastels

    Pastels are back. They seem to come and go, which is nice...you may still have a few pretty pastel shades, waiting in the shadows....(hahaha-get it, "shadows"?) Bust 'em out girlfriend. The thing about pastel, is you really need to match your skin tone.

    For day time, choose a light colour, and keep the rest of your make up simple. Nude lips, and a little bit of blush.

    If you want to amp it up for a night out- be a little more daring. Try a brighter colour, and more dramatic lip...OR a dramatic eye with nude lips.
    This look isn't for everyone. It's takes quite a lot of confidence to pull it off.
    Chanel has come out with a new line for Spring- LES PERLES DE CHANEL....do your best tweed and long pearls



    Coco Chanel believed that the reflective light from pearls on a woman's skin enhanced her natural beauty. LOVE Coco Chanel. "Coco" was actually on the names list for my first daughter...but damn Courtney Cox did it first...moving on.....

    LIP SERVICE!
    Red, red, red, red, red, red, R.E.D

    Did you get the memo? RED. Red is usually a staple for Fall/Winter, but this luscious colour has been making appearances all over the runways of Spring 2011! It is sooo daring, and so fab.U.lous!!! If you are used to nude lips, (like me. I LOVE a good nudie lip) trying a red can seem as scary as bungy jumping. But TRY it! Wear it around your house for a day. Catch glimpses of yourself as you walk by a mirror....if you HATE it after the first day, then forget I said anything...but I think you may like what it does for your posture... ;)

    How to pick a red for your skin tone:

    Your skin undertones are warm (yellow or golden undertone to your skin, you tan to a golden brown color, you look best in golds), try a red with a golden or yellow base. 
     

    If your undertones are cool (your veins are blue, so opposed to green, you look best in silver, etc.) then try red with a blue base.


    NOTE:

    • When wearing red lips, your foundation and coverage needs to be near perfection. Any slight red imperfections in your skin, can and will be used against you, when paired with a red lip.
    • Keep your eye and cheek colour minimal when paired with a strong red lip. During the day, a sheer vanilla eye colour and a dip or two of mascara is all you need. Maybe a lil sweep of blush. For a night time look-or if you like a more dramatic look during the day- draw a line of liquid eyeliner from the inner corner of your lid to the outer...oh goodness, what have I started...ok, I will go into more detail on how to do that. Curl your lashes(ALWAYS) and add a few coats of black mascara. Va-va-voom!!! 
    PS- Brown lips are back, so if you are completely uncomfortable with red, start with a brown...but I think you should jump in head first with the red!!!

     LIQUID EYELINER
    1. One finger on the outer part of your eye-pull taut...not too much...easy Tonto...
    2. Start at the inner corner. LIGHTLY touch the tip to the inner corner, and in a fairly swift motion, "pull" the liner across the lashline. Try to stay as close to the lashline as possible.
    3. Before you get to the absolute outer edge, flick the liner in an upward line...but not too much...unless you like to rock the cat eye look...which I do sometimes...it's not a bad thing necessarily. 
    Liquid eyeliner is not easy the first couple of times. It takes practice to be able to draw a straight line, or do it fast enough that you don't have a shaky, uneven line. Like everything else, practice makes perfect.





    Yours in rouge,
    Rach
    xoxo

    UPDATE**
    Ladies, I didn't touch on foundation...but here's what out: TOO much foundation- you don't want people to SEE it, it's there to cover "imperfections" ;) Use a green (or possibly pink?) base on red sopts, then cover with foundation.


    Note: if you bought a foundation that is too DARK, don't fret! Mix in a couple drops of SUNSCREEN. The zinc will lighten it, and the SPF will protect your skin!

    Sunday, January 30, 2011

    ride on.

    I LOVE the biker chic look. LOVE.

    (I ride a Harley, and it's one of my FAVORITE past times in the summer, but my chaps for riding, are just for practical uses.)

     If it were acceptable to wear leather pants to my daughters play date- I would.

    If you've seen me, in the past 6 years, you know this is my fav hairstyle:

    It all started in Australia...7 years ago...(here with my Irish co-worker and friend Stephen. SO much drinking...which is why my face is swollen, and there are fly aways here. If you know me-you're laughing.)
    I have blonde "Snooki" hair. The bigger the "poof", the bigger the party. Clearly, this was daytime(pictured with my husband, aww.)-so the poof was tame.  
    Gawd...this is getting obnoxious.  

    I feel like a total rocker when I have my hair incredibly teased. Actually, I can't even say that I "tease" my hair. I freakin' ABUSE it. I am very lucky to have such strong hair, because the way I back comb it, it's scary. I was born in the wrong decade. Could you IMAGINE if I was a teen in the 80's? (I would have LOVED every minute of it.) My hair would have looked like this:


    People ask me how I get it like that...I find it really easy, since I have been doing it for 10 years, but here's the broken down version:

     Start at the crown of your head. using a tooth comb, pull a section of your hair straight UP, and backcomb like a crazy person. Now Spray with hair spray. Continue this in sections all the way to the front. I "mold" mine into place. You have to play with it a little, to find out what your hair can handle.

    Has anyone "Liked" my style.Ease facebook page? Click on that link to see Tom Ford's biker style. (I <3 Tom Ford. One day, when I'm a billionaire...I will have a closet full of his line.)

    Tom Ford Spring 2011

    Burberry Spring 2011

    Burberry Spring 2011

    But...we DO have play dates...and depending on your circle of friends...a full metal jacket may not be appropriate. So...what to do, what to do? Start playing with accessories, if going full tilt makes you nervous.

    Try a studded clutch:

    Diane von Furstenberg

    Philomena Studded Clutch

    $212.50....you can find cute clutches that are not $100's of dollars...but I love a good quality purse/bag/clutch...

    Why don't you try a biker jacket, with jeans to start. You can work it up from there. And you'll look hot. Next time you see me...I may be wearing leather pants.

    xo
    Rach

    Saturday, January 29, 2011

    hair.

    Hair plays a HUGE part of your look. If I am having a bad hair day, fuh-get-about-it. Seriously. When you go shopping, and your hair looks bad, or maybe your make up too....you have "butter head" (everything's great...but her head...In N.American...we call it butter face, but in Australia, they say things like "Mate, look at her head..."-if it's a bad situation... So, I think "butter head" is appropriate when you're having a bad hair/makeup combo day.) when you're shopping, for example- you most likely won't like what you're trying on...it becomes a frustrating experience, and you end up buying a hoodie. Sweet...another frumpy hoodie. SOOOO high school.


    What is the 2011 trend for YOUR hair?



    Long hair:

    Double hair knots
    this style is all about looking "effortless".  Which is funny....cause it sometimes takes awhile to get the perfect "I don't care look". Haha!

    1. Spritz the hair with a sea-salt spray all over (Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray is awesome)
    2. Now, scrunch the hair into bunches to add waves and texture while drying 
    3. Pull a thick section of hair out at the front, sweeping it into a deep side part
    4. Then, take back two sections of hair and tie into a knot - then again into a double knot
    ***UPDATE : More details on the double hair knot

    1.) Your hair needs enough texture for the hairstyle to hold.
    You're not looking for so much texture that this becomes too messy of hairstyle, but enough that it adds volume.
    Try a spray-in mousse applied to the hair's roots. Then worked through with a hair dryer.
    If you have flat or fine hair simply apply more mousse. This is a hairstyle that will benefit from liberal lashings of mousse, so be worried more about too little, rather than too much.


    If the hair dryer and mousse causes too much of a messy look (natural waves dominating the hair) brush out the excessive texture.

    2.)  Using a comb divide the hair at the back down the centre hair line, beginning at the crown of the head and finishing at the nape of the neck.
    3.) Hold both sections of the hair separately.

     
    4.)  Tie a single knot in much the same way you'd tie any knot.
    To do this place one section of your parted hair over the other, loop that section though the created hole and pull the two parts tights.



     5.) Now, do another know, same as above, so you have two knots.


    6.) Twist a little bit, and stick bobby pins through the "knots". Secure with a couple bobby pins.

    7.) Spritz with hair spray to keep any fly aways, or short hairs in place.

    For fall or winter, play down the beach look by making the hair smoother and a little less textured. Try replacing the sea-spray with a volumizer and keeping the hair in place with a little hairspray.

     Short hair:

    The waved bob-
    The more understated the curls, the better. Don't focus on getting perfect curls.



    1.)   Work mousse through your hair & dry
    2.)   Create loose curls in sections, a couple inches down from the root. They need to have "bends", not tight curls
    3.)   Hair spray, then blast hair with a blow dryer to break it up.


    The PIXIE cut.

    2010 had a little longer version of the pixie cut, but SHORT, SHORT is back. And eeeeaaassssy!


    ***UPDATE:

     How to spend 10 minutes on your pixie cut...and not have the same 'do as your son ;)

     1.) Blow dry on HOT, while "pulling" sections straight.
     2.) Now, put a little pomade on your finger tips, and "mess" up your hair.
     3.) Pinch some pomade to select ends,  of select sections.
     4.) Strut.



    Hair accessories are not going to be very popular for 2011...head bands here and there, but not a lot more  than that.

    Don't try too hard, that's kinda the point. A little messy can be good.
    Happy stylin',

    -Rach
    xo
    ***super duber details & photos were found at an awesome site:
     http://www.fashionising.com/
    LOVE it!

    Friday, January 28, 2011

    Facebook page?

    Social networking is the wave of the future...

    How do you feel about it?

    Will you "like" the style.Ease page?


    http://www.facebook.com/pages/styleEase/150578361661881?v=app_2373072738&ref=sgm#!/pages/styleEase/150578361661881?v=wall

    Pre-pregnancy love.

    ***I feel like I talk a lot about mommy stuff. I apologize to those who are not yet mama's. I blab about what's in my head, and it tends to come out unfiltered.  So- if you haven't had children yet. Here is your official warning.***

    If you haven't bore fruit from your loins yet- Listen to me very carefully. Immediately get completely naked. In a well lit room. In front of a full length mirror. Now just stare. Get a good look. A REAL gooooood look.

    Continue looking daily, until you see the little plus sign. **not thinking of kids ANY time soon?-puuuurfect. Keep looking. Look in every mirror you pass. Have "grown up time" with the lights on. Take advantage of not having to wear a bra.

    Learn to LOVE your body now. 

    Before children is when you're most likely in your physical prime . You haven't been completely stretched out yet. You're hair is still in place. Your panty drawer is full of silk. It's so funny, because before kids (when we are at our most selfish) we hate our bodies.

    "I'm so fat", "My boobs aren't big enough", OR "My boobs are too big" (PS- the worlds tiniest violin is playing for you) We're consistently dieting, trying to lose weight- trying to look like the Victoria Secret model....don't you LOVE VS, btw? Anyway. Ready?

    (+) CONGRATS!!!!
     
    Game over. I hope you enjoyed your ass, your boobs, the taut skin on your tummy. Don't think it's taut? Don't like your butt? Not too happy with your boobs? You better get over that, and learn to LOVE them now- because once the lil fetus starts to suck nourishment, energy and life from your very core, it (literally) all goes down hill.

    Yes, I too have heard the urban myths. Bologna. "My friend "Brandy's" boobs STAYED big after her baby! She has DD's now!" If she actually DOES have DD's... when she isn't wearing a bra, she can tie 'em in a knot, she can tie 'em in a bow. It's JUST the way nature works. (Think soggy perogy. Same effect with little ones, FYI) Don't be mad at ME! I'm trying to warn you. I'm your friend!

    What happens to a woman's body after bearing a child, is a sick, sick joke. I mean- it's amazing, and a miracle, and all that- but I'm just throwin' this out there, because I was in total denial. Actually, denial up until preggo with my 2nd lil nugget. I didn't fare as well with my little "Dorothy".

     The TRUTH is- it doesn't f****n matter what your ass look like after having children, cause remember- YOU don't matter anymore! :) It's all about the kids. So ungrateful...always wanting to be FED, CLOTHED....the list goes on, and on, and on. Blah, blah, blah.


    Here's the GOOD news:

    • Once you have a bebe, you will be so busy, that you won't have much time for eating! Whoo hoo! 
    • If you have enough self control to eat veggies and fruit- when you do get .7 seconds without children (and/or their accessories in your hands), you're golden!
    • I am a crazy bi-otch, and what I am writing about doesn't matter, because you'll have a gurgly, cooing , cute lil baby to cuddle.
    • Some women LOVE being pregnant. I think they are liars, but hey-that's just me. I HATE it. The ONLY thing I can think about what I like about it, is when baby moves around, and your stomach looks like there is an alien in there. Or a baby.
    • Some women actually do lose more weight after having baby than before they were pregnant. For some, swapping the weight for saggy areas and stretch marks is a fair, and welcome trade.
    So ladies, whether you are pre-baby, or post~ you have one body, and one body only. You either love it, or you hate it. For some, it's not easy to change- for others, it's a matter of a little exercise and fruit. So do what you need to do, because it doesn't matter what clothes are in your closet-if you hate what is under them, you won't feel good about what you're wearing. And I'm not just talking about an actual PHYSICAL change.- My brother would call me Dr.Phil right about now,

    xo
     Rach
    This "style" blog is quickly going down hill....hmmm....style....style......uh, if you missed the memo-shoulder pads are back. (easiest to wear when it's a fitted style.)


    ( Maybe next time I'll focus on what we can cover up our mummy tummy's with....)

    PS- When you do get knocked up- grab a copy of "The girlfriends guide to Pregnancy". 

      Thursday, January 27, 2011

      No wonder....

      FIRST THINGS FIRST: My husband is a loving, caring man. One of the NICEST guys you'll ever meet, so read this with a grain of salt.

      *** He said he was going to take pictures of our house, and post them on facebook-so everyone can see how unfortunate his life is. (OK-my words, not his) And I said, why don't I blog about this conversation, and he said DO IT. So maybe I will post pictures of how messy our house is, and you can all send him "Get better" cards.***

      There is nothing nice about having a disorganized house. There just isn't. Messy is one thing, "dirty" is another...and then there is disorganized. First of all...I am the most UN-organized person you've ever met. My husband literally took a picture of me sitting on the floor of my office working on my lap top, surrounded by crap.(Not "real" crap. Ew. Why would you even think that?) My desk was piled so high with papers and junk, that I couldn't sit there. And as he snapped the picture, he said "Maybe I should put this on facebook to show everyone how you work." I said...."I'll tell them myself, thank you very much.", while shooting lasers with my eyes....

      PS...this is not our house...so what is he so damn upset about?!


      Do I think it's fair to my husband that he comes home to a disaster of a house? No- of course not...but this is my fault. Not for not cleaning 24/7. Not for letting the laundry get behind, and stay behind. It's my fault he's pissed off about the state of the house, because at the BEGINNING, I cleaned a lot. I NEVER asked for help. I took care of our daughter (only one at the time, which is maybe WHY we're at where we are at...), I cooked, I vacuumed (almost every day), floors were washed weekly, dusted, all that jazz-and I looked half ok doing it. Ava was always dressed in adorable outfits. (maybe I was the bitch at the mall?) So, it's MY fault that he hates coming home to this mess, because I didn't bitch him out from the beginning. THIS is what I SHOULD have said 3 years ago:

       "What the hell?! Look around! We live in a bloody pigsty! Are you HAPPY living like this?! Because I am NOT. You need to start pulling your weight around here. How the hell do you think I could do everything by myself? Grab a mop sunshine, the floors aren't going to wash themselves!"

      Now...back to reality. I don't LIKE cleaning. I like working on my Stella & Dot business, and I like hanging out with my kids. (He would add here: "And she LIKES being on facebook all day.") So, when he gets mad about the house, I have said recently that I need help. I CAN'T do it by myself. I don't think it's fair that I make supper, and then have to clean it up, and get the kids to bed, after being with them all day. I don't think it's fair that I am expected to do it all. And he said "I make the money." I KNOW that there are many women out there, who's blood just BOILED. Are you thinking "What an assh*le", or are you thinking, "Yes bitch, he works all day, get sweeping."? He does work his ass off. Mostly in hot, 3rd world countries. He is away from his family for a good part of the year. He wants to come home to his "castle" (that, yes, I KNOW- HE pays for.) He doesn't want to come home, to trip over toys, move unfolded laundry from the couch, so he can lay there and watch hockey. I get it. But I'm not about to admit defeat like my mother did. My father- also an incredibly hard worker. He has build his business from the ground up to support his family, just like my husband is doing...but he didn't help my mom at all. 

       I told my husband, many, many times (before we were even dating-we were just friends at this point) that I would never marry a guy like my dad. I love my father, but I'd be damned before I got myself into that situation. And now...he says things like "I pay the mortgage." 

       So- who's right here? Maybe we both are a little right, and a little wrong. I do need to point out, that in the past month or so, he has been A LOT more helpful. A very dear friend of ours, explained to him, that I am his "equal"(yes. I know. Someone had to explain it to him...I know.)...and since then, he has helped clean up after dinner, helps at bath time, has even taken the kids for FULL DAYS when I have trunk shows. So, don't hate him yet...he is making huge strides, in the home front. But I often wonder...how many women STILL, in 2011- are trying to do it all by themselves?

       No WONDER we're in bandannas and granny panties.






















      Wednesday, January 26, 2011

      Mamacita!

      "Because she's not a woman anymore, she's a mom!"
      I think that was quite possibly one of the funniest skits in SNL history. I've talked about it before, the "mom jeans" skit. I laugh every single time. Because so many moms STILL wear mom jeans. And mom vests. OMG- Mom vests. THAT is truly funny.


      The time line of "woman" to "mom":

      • Pre-pregnancy: Thong, or G-String undies...tight jeans, sexy low top, heels, long hair-typically flowing in the breeze......
      • You are now 2 months preggo: Bikini cut undies....feeling a little bloated=yoga pants more and more often...you hair is still long, not so "flowy"...the morning sickness, tends to take the time you had to curl your hair- and puke all over it.
      • 6 months preggo...nothing fits, except for your "laundry day" panties, which are scary to the naked eye, you used to cringe if your "significant other" (NO- I will not say husband...it's 2011.) ever caught a glimpse of them. You now have no choice but to wear elastic waist everything. This precious lil meatball in your womb has completely taken over. It is NOT your body anymore. You look in the mirror...you cry. "Who's thighs are those? When did the cellulite get so bad?......my skin is bad...but...my hair is thick as ever! ...and my boobs look awesome...!!!"
      • 9 months pregnant. If you are like me-you are hating your life right now. You pee every 4 minutes...whether you make it to a restroom or not. Your belly button is poking THROUGH your shirt- W.T.F. You are so flipping exhausted,  that the thought of doing anything more than a pony tail with your long, thick flowing hair, requires a nap.
       (Notice how much just the pregnancy part takes away? Now...the little bundle has arrived.)

      •  CONGRATULATIONS! You are now the proud mommy of a beautiful, poopy, crying, hungry-all-the-time-attached-to-your-breast-24-hours-a-day BUNDLE OF JOY, LOVE AND HAPPINESS! This will be the happiest, most unflattering, low point of style in your life! I say this because....it's true. YOU don't matter anymore! YAY! It's all about baby. Which is FABULOUS! Right? We knew it wouldn't be glamorous to bear a child, didn't we? 
      I mean, first of all- the baby weight. Isn't it great? What I ALWAYS wanted! Don't you love when you're **significant other touches your tummy-and it jiggles, and comes and goes like waves, because 15 pounds of baby and fluids departed like a bat out of hell, and now you are left with the devastation? LOVE IT.

      Between diapers, figuring out how to breastfeed properly, laundry, the tornado that seems to go through your house every day, possible siblings of said baby (which includes, but is not limited to: feeding these siblings...apparently it is frowned upon to not feed your kids, school, sports, homework, bathing them-also frowned upon if left undone....), grocery shopping, shall I go on....?- when did you have time to wash YOUR hair? You didn't. I think this is wear bandannas come into play. (AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!) Stop. Put the bandanna down, and walk away.......

      Once a week, when you find the time to wash your hair...you end up in complete disbelief and devastation. Why? Because what used to be long, flowing locks, are now-coming out in clumps. Sexy. So what happens now? You chop your hair off. At the time, you think "It will be so much easier to maintain! Less hair=less time managing it." Right? Wrong. With most short cuts-you need to STYLE it. Not really great for "wash & go". You need to blow dry, and possibly use some type of heated device; ie: straightener, curling iron, ect.....otherwise, your "cute, easy bob" cut will look like my hair did in Grade 3. I don't want to talk about it. The photos will haunt me forever.

      You are now in full mom mode. Your daily attire consists of sweatpants, a t-shirt with spit up and stains, and a bandanna. This is usually inevitable. It is the sacrifice that most moms make to bring life into the world. News flash- even if you didn't go the "pregnancy route" to start your family-you are most likely in the same boat as those who did. If your hair isn't falling out because of hormones, it is being pulled out with frustration and lack of sleep.

      Becoming a mom is the best thing that ever happened to me. I love my children, more than anything in the entire world. I am happy to trade in the toned butt for cellulite-because now I have "Stella" and "Dorothy". They are worth it, obviously. Don't start sending me hate mail.

      The point is this. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. We all (well, most of us-I have seen those bitches at the mall: pre-pregnancy jeans, glossy pink lipstick, perfectly maintained hair-with their 2 day old baby-dressed in an adorable outfit from "The Gap"...) have had to go through it. It's horrible, and disgusting-in a beautiful way. How ironic. And the thing is- you may feel like a huge slob-but everyone around you (ok, not EVERYONE, but- other parents who know what you are going through, because they have been there before) thinks you are super woman. Because you are. You are living on quite literally, NO SLEEP. Little to no food- (when you are able to scarf something down while standing over the kitchen sink-possibly warming a bottle, or soaking a onesie that was just exploded on -it's cold), and you are sustaining a human LIFE. You are allowed to wear a sweat suit, and I suppose you can wear a bandanna...((shutter)).

      That lil ray of smelly sunshine will only be little ONCE. You don't get a do-over. So skip the shower once in awhile to cuddle in bed longer. You deserve it. But once that kid is in pull ups, I want to see lip gloss.

      Tuesday, January 25, 2011

      He said, she said.

      I love my husband. 
      I love fashion.
      These two things are polar opposites.

       I can write this, because it's a.) true, and b.) he doesn't read my blog. I'm not sure he would argue it though.  I'm also quite sure he doesn't care. I do find it interesting, however when he comments on certain styles.....he makes me laugh. Here are some funny things he has said recently:

       Me: "The 70's are back baby! I'm breaking out the high waist jeans!"

       Him: "I hate 70's style." (( SHUTTER ))

      Me: "Get over it, it's back in a big way."

      Him: "I don't get it! Some of it is OK, but those jeans....they even make skinny chicks look like they  have  gunts."

      (I googled "gunt" for you. I am praying my gramma doesn't read my blog....quite sure she doesn't...if she accidently clicked on it somehow...Gramma- I am sorry. Here's what Urban Dictionary has to say: 
      1. Gunt  

      Bulging area found on large older women between the waist and the genital area. Not quite a gut, not quite a cunt... The Gunt.
      "My sixth grade teacher had a gunt like a freakin' innertube!")

       -If you are scared that maybe you are sporting a gunt.....where a pair of spanx. That s*** sucks everything in and up.


      That's all for now. Haha. SO inappropriate.

      xo
      Rach




      Sunday, January 16, 2011

      Inappropriate.

      The title of this post...is because "inappropriate" has been a word in my house lately. I have a 3 year old daughter, and a 1 1/2 year old daughter...I am trying to explain what is "inappropriate" to a 3 year old, and what is ok. But then sometimes, I'll see a grown woman, and think... didn't anyone have that talk with her?


      For example;

      • A grown woman, wearing jeans so low, that her thong is half way up her back-is inappropriate. In fact-it is inappropriate for not so grown women as well. And it's gross. (Once i saw a boy-wearing skinny jeans, that were below his bum, and he was wearing a purple thong. ***GAG***- so actually, I'm gonna say what no one should have to say: it's inappropriate for boys too. *shutter.)
        • While we are on this topic...which is worse? "Whale-tail" or "Muffin top"? -Whale tail- is seeing the top of your thong, and muffin top- is when your jeans are too tight at the waist, squeezin' some love, up and out........yeah....just get rid of your low cut jeans.
      • Also inappropriate: an ill fitted bra. Bad, bad, bad. And just wrong on so many levels. If you have boob, squishing up and out of the top of your bra-it's too small. -Seriously, invest in a bra. If you have the money, go to a real lingerie store, and buy a couple real, high quality bras. -after you have had a fitting. Your ladies will thank you...but you're bank account won't-those suckers are expensive...but worth it! 
        • *note- this look is most inappropriate while wearing a low cut top, preferably with skulls, and be-dazzling. Throw a bandanna on, grab a big bear beer and you're ready for the races. 
      Do you feel like maybe sometimes, you aren't dressing your "age"? I realized I wasn't, when I counted how many hooded sweatshirts I have...(for the Albertans-"hoodies", Saskatchewan-"bunny...somethings?") Anyway, I think it's important to dress appropriately for your age.

      I for one, try my best to not wear a "hoodie" everyday. Comfortable,  and warm...but not trendy, or stylish. Don't get me wrong- I wear them often, but not when I go out for a reason.  I do not wear a hoodie while doing any of the following:
      • Going to the movies with your man, or your girlfriends....if you're with your man-look good honey! Give him a lil (extra, cause yes-I know you're beautiful Au natural) arm candy to walk around with. He likes it when other dudes do a double take, cause you're HIS. (Unless he's a crazy person...in which case....well, that's not even funny to make a joke about...) And then after the movie, he'll need to take you for a glass of wine to show you off, instead of rushing back to the babysitter!? Score. If you're going with your girlfriends, it's just a fun reason to doll yourself up.
      • Going out for dinner-anywhere. Hoodies are not flattering. And there are so many other, warm options.
      • ...............I just realized that I can go on, and on...so maybe it would be easier to say where I DO wear hoodies:
        • at the gym
      The end.
      xo
      Rach