BeautyXchange

If there is one thing I've come to learn and appreciate about the blogosphere is that there is a multitude of smart, talented, dynamically creative people out there sharing their creative juices and inspiring people like myself.  If any of you ladies out there have ever felt like your style was stuck in a rut or your hair care regimen was in need of some prescriptions then look no further for a dose of inspiration. One of these ladies is a super creative, DIY style diva that goes by the name of "MopTop Maven".  I had the opportunity to find some things about her fashion and style sense and she graciously spilled the beans.  Meet Mop Top Maven!




How would you describe  your style?
I would describe my style as classic, and understated. Although sometimes I can go a little over-the-top, and there are also those moments I lend more towards a whimsical expression. My style translates how I feel at any given moment.

Who/What are some of your style inspirations?  In no particular order, my style inspirations are:  Sarah Jessica Parker, Jane Birkin, Bianca Jagger, Diane Von Furstenberg, Tracee Ellis Ross, Kate Moss, Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen


Name 5 wardrobe essentials & accessories that every woman should have in her closet?


A black lace bra [un-padded] - I love adding a lacy black bra under shirts that are slightly see through, or under a low cut blazer paired with jeans! A lace bra is the perfect peek-a-boo accessory for that effortlessly sexy look.


Black Pumps - The higher the better! Need I say more? I throw on a pair of uber-high black pumps on those days I have on jeans and a white tee. Simple, sexy, major elongation of legs. Jackpot.


Chandelier Earrings - I tend to go for jewelry that is timeless, and very feminine. A nice pair of earrings will help elongate wider faces, and perfectly frame oblong faces.


Statement Ring - I am not big on rings, but I love to wear one big chunky ring. It gives sort of a rough/funky edge to any outfit. I love the juxtaposition of a rough cut turquoise ring [or any stone for that matter], with a feminine, flirty dress.


Multi-Colored Dress - These are so fun! And you don't need to do too much accessorizing, as they command attention as-is. Pair a multi-colored dress with some simple shoes, a nice clutch and you have instant wow factor.
Would you share some style tips for the busy women out there, juggling work, school, motherhood, etc that want to look fab on a budget.
Looking fab without breaking the bank is definitely important. One of the things that has really helped me out has been shopping at consignment stores. There you can find designer items at bargain bin prices. Albeit they are slightly worn, you usually can't tell signs of wear and tear. I get a ton of interesting pieces from these stores, and I enjoy the exclusivity of picking out the only corral color skirt in the store. If you aren't afraid searching through racks of clothes, pots, pans and shoes, you can go thrifting. I have scored leather pumps for $1 and dresses for as little as 50cents at my local thrift store!

If pre-worn clothing is not an option for you, there is always Zara, H&M, Forever 21, and the likes. These are my go-to places when I want something cute, cheap, and new, however those items are more than likely trendy pieces and will be out before next season rolls in.


Now for the big dogs! A lot of my designer shoes, bags, and clothing comes from Saks, Barney's, & Nordstroms. However, I only shop at those stores after Christmas through Valentines Day. After Christmas is when those stores start marking down items that must go, and the discounts keep getting bigger as time progresses. I get shoes that are normally 4-500 from about $50 and under, and the same for bags, and clothing.

For me it is important that I walk into a store looking for interesting pieces, and not a complete outfit. Rarely do I find an entire outfit at one store that I am satisfied with. I normally pick a few items from each store, and pair them with items from my closet when I get home. That cuts down on time, and also takes the pressure off of shopping! Not to mention it also helps save money too!




You are an Indie Jewelry designer, do you have any aspirations to become a fashion designer? 
I have always wanted to become a fashion designer, however I knew I needed a certain amount of funding to get started, and honestly that was a deterrent for me. It seems as though we are experiencing a paradigm shift in a sense that the industry is more accepting of indie designers. So I may give it a shot!

Check out more of MopTop Maven at her blog - www.moptopmaven.blogspot.com 


Thank you MopTop Maven for sharing your stylish tips !!!! 

Do I really need to add another product to the arsenal that I already have? Well, the answer to that truly depends on the type of beauty product :) Truth be told, my skin has been acting up something awful lately, I've experienced dryness, blemishes, some flare ups, etc.  So, enter MAC with their new Care Blends Essential Oils formulated to moisturize and heal dry skin. The oils are available in Sweet Orange/Lavendar and Grapefruit/Chamomile.









Product Description: Provides the skin with a healing balance of plant-derived elements that energize, heal, soothe and calm. Apply to the skin after cleansing and before your skincare regimen. May also be blended with other M∙A∙C formulas.





Although I've only used essential oils in my hair care regimen never as part of a skin care regimen, I would definitely use this product in my hair & scalp!  They like that idea.  :) 





Have any of you tried MAC's Essential Oils? Have you used essential oils as part of your skin care regimen? Let me know. =)

A picture is worth a thousand words.  This one speaks of tranquility. Above all there is something so regal and calm about SADE.  A woman that is comfortable in her own SKIN and at peace with herself.  Though this is "no ordinary {task}" - What does this photo say to you?

I have a thing for handbags and these two caught my eyes because of their attention to detail. They actually look like pieces of art and not accessories.  I guess the saying is true, fashion sometimes imitates art.

Spring Fling fine crystal-embellished clutch

 

This photo of Salma Hayek is from the Golden Globes in 2009. I love this whole look on her but then again she can do no wrong in my opinion. 

Did you know that fake or counterfeit fragrances could contain urine? (yeah I'm gagging too) According to a Daily News article, apparently authorities in Britain & Ireland detected urine in fake fragrances that they seized. In addition to urine, other things like antifreeze have been found in those fragrances.  Reminds me of a time when my husband and I were taking a road trip to FL and made a stop to grab a bite. While in the parking lot some sketchy people in a car were trying to sell us some perfume.  I was like nah thanks I'm allergic to perfume.  Like I really want to buy Chanel No. 5 from the back of a trunk.  I don't think so.  To read the entire article, click here.



Buyers beware, remember you get what you pay for so be aware & cautious.  What are your thoughts on this horrid phenomenon? 

What do  you think ladies?  Do you have a favorite?