Dec 31, 2009

Happy New Year!!!

A Farewell To The Decade


As 2009 comes to a close,It is my desire to take the time to wish all of you a safe and happy New Year.

May the coming year ahead be filled with love and joy.

There have been so many blessings,so many wonderful people that I have met,and so many fabulous treasures that I have found.

Remember that" It's not the name that makes it fashion...but the fabulous people that put it together with style with confidence and class". (see nov."What's in a name")

Let this be your year to shine!

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts

BellevueGrl

Dec 27, 2009

My Very Best Of List

 BellevueGrls year end wrap up of favorite products-
 What works,and what flopped.Those ooey gooey messes,the tried and true and the awesome brand new.

As everyone knows, I love a classic makeup look for daily wear. when it comes to a soft natural look I rely upon Stila.
 I love most everything about this makeup! From the enviro-friendly packaging to the soft shades,totally blendable eye shadows and blush compacts ,all the way to long lasting,and yes, really smudge proof mascara. I've been using the products now for about three years. even the bronzer is soft and blendable,when applied with a blush brush it goes on and stays on all day without touch ups.a very big plus when you are on the go.
I even traveled with this makeup,everything stayed fresh and packed well in a suitcase without spilling over or getting messy.
 
Some of the best,long wearing eye liners are to be found at Sephora. Their very own brand comes in a pyramid of colors. They go on soft and creamy,without melting halfway through your day. I finally got rid of my own dark brown liner in favor of these pencils,and so glad I did. I'm in love with "Nano Eyes" in Glitter Brown and Wild Spirit (an almost purple/blue)
Another fave is Sephora "liner electro" in Copper. Ladies, this is a gold flecked copper shade that is great for that gilded sun goddess bronze eye.

The "oops" on my list were Stilas Cherry Crush lip stain...This did not wear well at all,not a good shade if you are fair,Smashbox Cream Eyeliner Palette (the colors ran) and "O"gloss which was a cool idea but an icky sticky lip glossy mess. Another to file under the "don't waste your money" category is Maybelline waterproof Lash Stiletto mascara. This turned out to be a gloppy mess that did not go on well,takes long to dry,and does not wash off well. Waterproof,yes, but taking it off is a hassle,and I woke up with mascara still under my eyes.It takes a really oily eye makeup remover to get all of this off,and the residue is just not worth it.

Hooray for Nars!! Their cream eye shadows are wonderful. the mini compacts fit in a pocket or small purse just right and again the colors are blendable and long wearing. I used Corfu and loved it. a very soft beige-brown that adds just a hint of color. perfect for every eye shade. I also love the blush.Laguna and Orgasm rock!
 

The best foundation ever- I have tried them all! From Estee Lauder to Chanel,to Clinique,even Maybelline. I have very fair skin and it's hard for me to find one color that I can stick to without having to blend them together to get just the right shade. I actually found two that fit the bill.
Aveda "Inner Light" Duel Powder Foundation. This can be worn wet or dry. it is a powder that when applied with a slightly damp makeup sponge goes on and looks flawless all day. It even hides my freckles,gives a really nice matte finish.
For a liquid foundation,hands down the winner was Make Up Forever HD (high definition) Invisible Cover Foundation. Smooth,light,just right for every day wear. Top off with their loose powder (Micro Finish) for a look that will last all day. No shiny foreheads during the day.
 
Sparkle in the New Year!
~Until next time
Hugs and Hearts
BellevueGrl

Dec 23, 2009

Last Minute Holiday Gift Helper

BellevueGrl Tips- For those who choose to be what one would call "Fashionably" late




Waited till the last minute this year to do Christmas shopping?? Never Fear!! It's still not too late to grab a perfect little gift. Here's a few ideas that will be sure to make you a star....

Sephora- e-gift certificates... if you order an online gift card Sephora will send it to the recipients email box within 24 hours.

Itunes- The gift of music. From 10-15-25-30-50 and up.  Let them choose their own "drummer" to march to.

Starbucks- Who wouldn't love a $25 gift card from Starbucks??? Can you say "White Mocha please?? "

Nordstroms-Order online,pick up in store today

Coach- Choose a gift,choose a store and it will be waiting for pick up,so easy!!!!

Bath & Body Works- Send an e-gift card .

Happy Holidays To All!!

~Until next time

Hugs and Hearts

BellevueGrl

Dec 22, 2009

A Christmas Wish From BellevueGrl

BellevueGrl wishes you and your family a very Merry Christmas!!


There are so many families that are struggling right now with money issues. The tight economy this year has affected so many. Those of us that have jobs and homes are so fortunate ! You never realize this until you see people sleeping on the sidewalk. I ask everyone to just take a couple of dollars and buy a toy of some kind and donate it or warm clothes. Just think about how happy you would make a child's Christmas morning who was planning on not having anything this year. The greatest gift we can give is that of joy to someone in need.

Reach out to someone this Christmas! Be an "Angel" for someone that really deserves it. Grant a few holiday wishes for someone you don't know.

~Until next time

Hugs and Hearts (and Holiday kisses)

BellevueGrl

Dec 13, 2009

Pretty And Practical Holiday Tables - Part 3 Of the "Be Merry-Be Bright Series"

Setting a pretty,yet elegant table for your holiday needn't be a hassle. BellevueGrl has some easy ideas on how to make your table the focus of "Oohs and Aahs" without breaking your budget.

Try simple,then add the glitz. A plain table cloth or runner can serve as a background color for your table. Think gold,silver,white,shades of pink,even purple,or light green. Here's one of my favorite ideas.....

Try pink,yes really, a pretty pink cloth in any shade of pink,add a touch of pink and silver Christmas ornaments(you can get these at Target),use simple hurricane lamps with candles as a great centerpiece,or a simple basket shaped as a sleigh,fill with fresh pine cones( or scented cinnamon ones) and greenery for a great look. most of these items can be found at your local Michael's store. For an even more glamorous table,try filling a large bowl with water, and add floating holiday candles.

Napkin rings? Try adding package ties. Glittering stars,angels,snowflakes in gold or silver.add a real stick of cinnamon for a realistic touch,or dip a small pine cone in some glitter then add a ribbon to the top and tie on to your napkin.



I did a bit of holiday window shopping to get some ideas for you,and found Pier 1 to have some of the best,inexpensive decorating ideas. Gilt candle holders,with gold edging were $3.00 a piece,fill with your choice of votive candles. add some reindeer in gold,and ornaments to your table. I was able to find some in just about any color imaginable (including hot pink with silver). They also have some really pretty glassware,most are under $8.00. don't forget the mistletoe..."kissing balls" can be found in every color too,and most are only $3-$5.00.



For a really festive look try 3d mini foil hanging snowflakes. I found some at Party City that come 8 in a pack for $4.99. Imagine a room filled with a simple,yet elegantly lit table,shining with ornaments and fresh greenery and hanging from the ceiling are little snowflakes catching the candlelight!



This would even work as a decoration for a winter wedding.hang snowflakes and stars from the ceiling,make your table white with silver or gold accents ,hang a white or gold Christmas wreath in the hall......beautiful!

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts

BellevueGrl

Dec 8, 2009

Tricks For Pretty Tips

Angels, thinking of some cool ideas for adding some holiday pizazz to your nails???


BellevueGrl has a few simple tricks to try to make your nails sparkle.

Try adding a few crystals or glitter (Red,Gold,Silver,even Green) apply to your nails while slightly tacky ,dip nail tips in a small bowl(dessert size) of glitter,then when dry cover with a clear coat of polish then spray with an instant nail dryer. you can find most of these items at a discount beauty supply like Sally or Beauty Warehouse.

Another tip to try,look for little decals,often sold in sets such as angels, snowmen,snowflakes. I found some great ones just browsing through my local Rite Aid in the nail care isle,and think that they would look adorable...why pay more when you can do it yourself at home for half the cost?

Just another way to "Be Happy.. Be "Bright" (hint hint) This Season

Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts

BellevueGrl

Dec 5, 2009

Holiday Hair Help

Just in time for those holiday parties BellevueGrl has some hot tips for great holiday hair.


The Christmas season is here again, and so are all the parties! Our dresses are ready,our shoes,our makeup has been planned,but what about our hair?

BellevueGrl is here with some easy and inexpensive ways to make your hair just as pretty as the rest of you.



Without trying to pull a "Blair Waldorf" try a jeweled headband. Sweep your bangs forward or gently to the side and place headband about midway,add a little spritz of hairspray and you have an easy and polished look to go with anything.

I happened to find some really great ones at my local Rite Aid store--even better??? They're under $10.00

Claire's is also a great place to try,large selection and still fabulous prices...Think red plaid,silver,gold for the holidays!

A glittery scarf can be used for a side-swept pony tail,or be fun and creative and tie your hair with a bit of package ties for the Christmas season. glittering stars,angels,etc make a cute statement for longer hair.



For a super glamorous look,replace your usual hairspray with Frederic Fekkai Spray On Hair Crystals. This is a crystalline mist that captures thousands of the tiniest diamond and pearl particles to provide all-over brilliance and dimension to your style.

This product is available in three shades: champagne, copper, and bronze. You'll be turning heads as a foxy fashionista should!



Short hair can go glam for the season too! Try jeweled bobby pins. I again found some amazing ones at Rite Aid .Beautiful amethyst flowers,dragon flies,etc. Again, under $5.00 . Try pinning on the sides of your hair to make your short style sparkle.
Be the "Star" at your next party,and try some of these tips to put a little "sparkle" in your eyes,and maybe someone elses. Slip them a little note to meet you under the mistletoe.
Happy Holidays!!


Until next time~

Hugs and Hearts

BellevueGrl

Dec 1, 2009

BellevueGrl Holiday Preview

Be Merry-Be Bright


How to shop for the Holidays and still have a little "jingle" left in your pocket???

BellevueGrl has some great ideas for Secret Santas everywhere

With glittering lights and make believe snow Bellevue Square is all a-glow,and while shoppers may be rushing for presents,gals and guys in the know can find gifts galore for under $50.00 or less at these stores...Here's a list of my faves



Gifts Under 50.00 From Sephora

Sephora Ultimate Block Buster -All you want for holiday glamour $48

Philosophy- The Bake Shoppe $30 everything from Sweet Creamy Frosting body lotion to raspberry mousse shampoo,bath gel,and lip shine= Yummy

Stila Lip Glaze Collection-The best pout maker! $25

Sephora Brand Chocolate Espresso Gift Set-$16 Shower Gel and Body Lotion for the chocolate lover in all of us

Bliss Season's "Treating" $35 "Blissfull' little gifts to smooth out your holiday

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Gift Set $45

Sephora Brand Magnetic Brush Set $38 A cool little pop together brush set in a handy travel case with mirror

These are gifts that every fabulous little elf would love and again all within a reasonable price range. If you order online 50.00 and your order ships free



Gifts Under 50.00 From Coach

Most Ponytail Scarfs from signature to opt art classic tartan are $38

Striped and opt art ties (go on handle of bags) are $48

Coach Purse Spray Perfume $45

Pave Penguin Keyfob $38

Pave skull,snowflake,crown keyfobs $48 Mini Skinny Purses $38-$42

Adorable Leather Animal keyfobs $38 Wristlets $48

Signature picture frame keyfobs including a gold glitter picture frame

are from $28 to $38 -Yes UNDER 50.00 for a Coach Gift!!!!

There is also a Coach Outlet Store in North Bend that you might want to check out for some of these gifts



Gifts Under 50.00 From Starbucks

Bearista Plush Bear $14

Coffee Mug Gift Box with Starbucks Plush Reindeer $17.95

Coffee Sampler Gift Pack $12.95

French Press Gift Set $39.95

Metallic Snowflake Mug $7.95

Powdered Cocoa Trio Tins $9.95

Tazo Tea Sampler Gift Box $19.95


Gifts Under 50.00 From Godiva

Holiday Truffle Gift Box 12 pc $28

Holiday Chocolate Gift Box 16pc $25

Chocolate Care Package Tower $45

Foil Wrapped Milk Chocolate Santas (3) $15

Exclusive Holly the Bear $25

Chocolate Fondue Gift Set $42

Holiday Mini Cocoa Trio $20

Lady Godiva 2010 Mug with Cocoa $17
 
Now, if you will excuse me, I have this strange craving for chocolate??? Lol!
Until next time~
Hugs and Hearts
BellevueGrl