Just so we’re clear

lucite
This pile of lucite on long pinky-nude nails, atop a mountain of fur is E V E R Y T H I N G right now…

clear bag  jewels

images // pinterest

Going Platinum

I am a woman that has very dark hair.

blonde.

I also have a blonde mother, and when I was growing up she was on the local news. She always looked glamorous and had more than her fair share of admirers/imitators. I’m sure those early images of her ultra-light hair is the root-cause, I’ve always harbored a deep, dark desire to be a blonde.

My mom in the early 1980s

A lot of women fall into the not blonde/ not brunette range and they can flip and flop between. For those of us with the darkest locks, it’s mostly more of a pipe dream (due to cost, upkeep or finding a stylist that can do it). While I know that my hair and my wallet do not want me to turn to bleach, I still really really want to but have never really come close. I’ve had the occasional highlight, which has gone awry more than once. And I’ve gone darker, to give myself the illusion of a “change”. I’ve told myself that one day I’ll chop the whole thing off and dye it blonde, which would be considerably easier on my mane but in the back of my mind, I know it’s not true. It’s just not meant to be…
sequin baseball t.
Enter Erika Bearman aka @oscarprgirl (above). She is the PR exec for Oscar de la Renta and an enviable force in social media. I keep up with her via twitter or instagram to see what she’s wearing and admire her for being a woman in a high-power/ high-influence role. It doesn’t hurt that she’s charming and visually lovely. Like me, she often expressed an ambition to become a blonde. I sighed along with her while perusing editorials and street style snaps of honey to champagne-shaded tresses.

blonde ambition.

Suddenly, earlier this week, she announced her intent. OscarPRGirl would be a blonde. I became excited and anxious to see the results. But also – I felt nervous for her and the finality of all that bleach, like only a fellow brunette would. Luckily, she took vogue.com (natch) along for the ride to document the lengthy (12.5 hour) process. I’m looking forward to seeing what she does with the wildly transformed hair color. I know she will rock it and ultimately help all of the lonely brunettes out there to decide whether or not to take the plunge. Full story here.

Vogue Daily —

Dreaming of Outdoor Living

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There’s nothing like pinterest to remind us all what we want and haven’t got. In the depths of January, despite our warmer than normal temperatures, I can’t get my mind off summer and pools and dream backyards with green grass. Typical. On Friday afternoons, my mind often wanders to what my plans would look like if it were May-August…
Suffice it to say, pool time would be on the agenda. These are a few of my favorite outdoor living scenes. Follow me on pinterest for more: http://pinterest.com/paytonvail

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What would Kate Middleton do?

Most women I know have much respect for the newest princess. She’s incredibly lovely but in a girl next door sort of way. We had all been pulling for her to get a proposal for the past 5 years or so. She seems very warm and friendly and girlfriend has an impeccable figure.
So, let’s ask ourselves. In a situation any girl might face, what would the stunning royal do?
I want to wear a short dress but it’s too short/cold out. WWKD? Kate would opt for sheer panty hose. Duh. Knee-high black boots for more casual situations.
Gloucestershire wedding, Oct 2010Visit to St Andrews, Feb 2011Centrepoint visit, Dec 2011
It’s rainy or muddy. WWKD? Princess K would wear a hat and wellies, of course.
Sandringham, Dec 2011
I’m attending a premier/gala/red carpet. WWKD? The princess would no doubt wear her hair down and curled, a long designer confection with an hourglass figure flattering silhouette. Let’s not forget the princely accessory in a dapper tux.
Bafta gala, Hollywood, July 2011ARK Gala, June 2011
I want to look my best/something important is going on. WWKD? Turn to ISSA.
The engagement photocall, Nov 2010Royal tour of Canada, July 2011
The Boodles Boxing Ball, Jun 2008
I’m going to the wedding of a friend or relative. WWKD? Does it need to be said? Suit dress + hat/fascinator. EVERYTIME.
Zara Phillip's wedding, July 2011London wedding, Aug 2009Christmas Day, Sandringham, Dec 2011
I’ve got an incredible figure and it’s casual Friday. WWKD? Jeans my friend.

I’m on holiday at the beach. WWKD? Work out like a fiend, then white bikini – all the way.
My sister is really pretty and she’s always getting attention, people even say she looked better than I did at my wedding. WWKD? Stay mum, graciousness and grace always wins.

I’m getting married! WWKD? Follow tradition but not trends.

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It seems like everyone I know and don’t know has suddenly put me under a crazy microscope. WWKD? Act like a lady. Stay in shape. Dress to flatter your figure. And most importantly, smile. (The happiest girls are always the prettiest girls.)

A very Royal boat party, July 2011

Photos via stylist and google

Blog Crush: 5 inch and up

I recently happened upon Sandra Hagelstam‘s extremely inspirational blog – 5 inch and up. Aside from her obvious love of heels, she is devastatingly beautiful, she has great taste and often features budget-friendly items. The Finnish beauty also includes readers in her new projects, travels and favorite finds. Check her out.

All photos from 5 inch and up