When Life Gives You Lemons, Make #LEMONADE

 Alright everyone, time to get in formation. Beyonce dropped her 6th album and the visuals incredible. The HBO special, which is airing again April 25th before the premiere of Game of Thrones, was a hour long piece of magic that only Queen Bey could conjure. Keeping with the theme of her single "Formation", the story is heavily influenced by Beyonce's creole roots, women's empowerment, and quite a bit of anger. That being said, Beyonce did nothing to hold back on her emotions, taking her audience on the emotional roller coaster that was her making sweet of what life delt her (which, I assume, gave rise to the title of B6).

Here are a few outfits inspired by the album. I will add relevant titles of the tracks mentioned at a later date, mainly because I don't have Tidal so I won't be able to check anything until I'm able to own the album itself. This is a work in progress, so please bear with me!

"What's worse, looking jealous or crazy?" 

Track 2, titled "Hold Up", is basically Carrie Underwood a la "Before He Cheats" meets "Waiting to Exhale". She destroyed not only her man's car, but the cars of all the men in the neighborhood. Baseball bats, cheating boyfriend/spouse/lover, explosions, and the like, all while Beyonce slayed in an off-shoulder yellow dress paired black, thick heeled sandals. This look will have you singing "they don't love you like I love you" and clearing paths as you walk down the street.

Although this outfit isn't near as fierce as Bey's, it gets the job done. Yellow on clothing is generally feared, but it's actually is one of my favorites colors to wear. With the warm summer season approaching, the warm, sunny yellow will bring out and enhance the bronze tones from your tan. Pair this with beachy waves, island vibes, and tons of ornate jewelry.

"Who the f*** do you think I am?...I'm just too much for you"

Beyonce went OFF with this one. Pure, unfiltered anger is what we received from this track, titled "Don't hurt yourself". I would say this song was raw and powerful, but that's basically describing the entire album so I can only say this; watch out and don't ever cross the Queen.

Beyonce is the only person I know of that can pull off the heels with crew socks look, so proceed with caution. This powerful yet simple look is multi-functional: gym and telling your lying/cheating/no good whomever what's up, in any order. Side note, only boss a** b****es wear faux fur in summer. Jump on that.

"She murdered everybody and I was her witness"

Not this song is a classic female empowerment anthem. "6 inch" is basically Bey saying she worked hard for her successes and deserves every dollar she earned, as well as other women who are hardworking and successful. She uses the idea of 6 inch heels as a symbol of success and power.

I've given two examples of this outfit. Of course, one cannot be as elaborate as Beyonce, so both outfits lack the bold shoulders and overall sheer element of the look, yet I believe this is more palatable for public applications. On the left, we have a crop to and maxi skirt, perfect for a night out. Alternatively, on the right we have a lack maxi dress, which is closer to the original. Both outfits are paired with red stiletto sandals, a halo braid, and black lips. I chose black makeup for this look because nothing says power like a black lip. It's bold, daring, and defiantly exudes confidence.


That's it for now. I hope to have more looks up in the near future, but with exams and the end of the semester, I can't promise anything. I hope you enjoyed this post, and feel free to comment below!

Love is in the Air - Valentine's Day 2016

Lipstick and Labcoats is back!!!

Valentine's Day is not for everyone. In fact, it's either a hit or miss. For some, it's a day filled with love, flowers, and chocolates. It's the perfect time to spend with your significant other, a reminder of how lucky you are to have them in your life. On the other hand, it can bring back memories of a relationship that has gone wrong, has just ended, or the dreaded "one that got away". Regardless, images of the holiday will be EVERYWHERE, whether you like it or not.

Here are a few outfit ideas will help you style the most common events that occur this Valentine's Day. Enjoy!

Cool and Casual

Whether you're single or boo-ed up, this look is perfect for a casual afternoon outing. The wrap style sweater is super trendy and will keep you warm in the frigid February air. The thick, stacked heel and mini platform of the boots will keep your feel warm and comfortable no matter how long you will be on your feet. Lastly, to acknowledge Valentine's Day, the oxblood bottoms are thick and structured like jeans, but with the added comfort of leggings. I would pair this outfit with a messy mid-ponytail and a naturally made-up face.

Adorable for Date Night

This would be a great first few dates/early dinner outfit. The dress is very cute, and paired with the flower earrings, it adds a fresh flair to the overall look. As a contrast, the structured coat and purse take the outfit from "fresh out of high-school" to "playful college grad". The shoes add some interest to the overall look, but can easily be switched out for a more conservative footwear choice. I see this look with a wavy half up-half down hairstyle and natural makeup.

Elegant and Chic

If you're planning on doing something fancy, like dinner and going to the ballet (or whatever people do these days), this would be your outfit. The skirt will accentuate your waist while skimming over your hips and thighs, creating a defined hourglass shape. The sweater's off the shoulder cut is classic yet modern, making the outfit highly versatile. Opaque tights can be added if needed. A sleek bun or low ponytail paired with classic Marilyn Monroe inspired makeup will complete this outfit perfectly.

Edgy Fashionista

If I had actual plans on Valentine's Day, this would be my outfit of choice. It's alluring while maintaining a trendy, fashion-conscious vibe. The neutral mock-neck dress will keep you warm in the draftiest of places, and the asymmetrical hemline adds a unique flair to an otherwise basic dress. Complementing the hemline are the thigh-high boots. Once seen as provocative, thigh high boots will balance the outfit, keeping you warm without sacrificing the sultry feel of the outfit. The coat acknowledges the festivities without looking like you're trying too hard. I would wear this with a slicked back middle part (inspired by Kim Kardashian), deep red lip, highlighted cheeks, and satin finish eye-shadow with clean-lined winged eyeliner. 

For those who want to channel their inner Beyonce a la Partition

*Cue Beyonce's self titled album* ...just kidding

To the surprise of many, I don't live in a box. If you are of age and want to reflect that in your Valentine's day activities, this set is for you. It goes from cute to risque, so you can figure out if this is of use to you or not. Side note, Viktor&Rolfe's Flowerbomb and Flowerbomb Extreme are the best smelling perfumes in the world. Every time I wear it I get a myriad of complements from those around me. 

Single and Sittin' with Pringles

This look is my favorite. Since the 14th is on a Sunday, I will most likely make it a "Netflix and Chill" - me day. This is perfect for catching up on your favorite shows, either alone or with friends. The phone case is an added touch of humor that can be used year-round. Make the most of the day, even if you have no actual plans!

I'm working on changing up the layout of my blog and regularly posting content. I know, I said the same thing in my last post (which was over a year ago), but I'm really going to try this time. Without the added strains of applying to graduate school and everything else that comes with one's last year of undergrad, I should have time to post at least once a month.

As always, feel free to comment and leave any suggestions! 

Sweater Weather: Outfits for the New Year

     Happy New Year! I apologize in advance for the awkwardness of this post. I haven't blogged in quite some time...

     With graduate school applications and finishing up my requirements for undergrad, I have been super busy. Because of this I have neglected to contribute to this blog. Although I have a semester left before the summer, I plan on having at least one post a month. I'll try to keep things relevant, but school puts me in a place devoid of most pop culture references, so any suggestions are appreciated!!!

     As we enter the new year, the temperature finally settles into chilly winter weather. Despite living in the Mid-Atlantic,which is quite mild temperature wise, I've put together a few outfits that I think are appropriate in both colder and warmer areas. These outfits are also good for transitioning from class to going out, with a few alterations of course.

Minimal and Monotone

     This is honestly my favorite outfit of the collection. The simple combination of a cropped mock neck and printed trousers is one of my go to everyday outfits. The pants are high waist, therefore only a sliver of skin will show if wanted. Black smoking flats are my everyday shoe and happen to be super comfortable in almost all situations. The chunky grey sweater adds some physical texture to the outfit as well as making the look softer for daytime wear. 

"The Linus"

     Anyone who has watched or is familiar with the comic Peanuts will immediately get this reference. Linus, the blanket carrying piano player, was the inspiration for this outfit. Nothing screams cold winter morning than the feeling of wanting to stay wrapped in your blanket all day. This outfit is second best. The blanket poncho will keep you cozy and warm while appearing acceptable to the general public.

Cozy Chic

     This is the perfect transition outfit. During the day, the boots and red lip make the outfit look casual yet put together. It also works for class as an effortless look. To transition to nighttime, exchange the boots for heels and add a faux fur collar to add some texture to the outfit. The dark lip is perfect for a night socializing with friends.

Casual Friday

     Can you tell I intended this to be part of a fall collection? Anyway, this works for winter if you switch out the shoes and wear a coat and scarf over the sweater if necessary. This outfit would be nice for a casual office environment. I would even wear something like this in the lab (with closed toe shoes of course). The bag allows you to carry books, office supplies, and anything else you may need for a day at work.

Color of the Year

     Apparently, the magical council of color experts decided that marsala, a rustic red-brown tone, would be the color of the year. Pantone's announcement of this decision made it official. Honestly, I think this color is great, mainly because it is like a faded oxblood, which was popular a few seasons ago, and can easily function as a non-traditional neutral. This outfit features a sweater in a related color to marsala and pleather pants, both of which will keep you warm and protected from the cold winds of winter. 

     Ok, so those titles were pretty terrible, I know. I will try to have a mix of outfits as well as makeup swatches so things don't get so boring. My writing will be better, so I apologize once again for the horrid and rushed post! Until next time! 

Back to Campus: Outfit Inspiration for Fall 2014

First things first (I'm the realest...haha, sorry I couldn't help myself), I apologize for not posting since April. Life has been super busy and between class, moving home and back, and work, I didn't have the time or energy to keep up with blogging. I plan on having at least two posts this week if that's any consolation.

Although this is a bit early, especially for those who have just graduated high school, I thought it'd be a good idea to start thinking about outfits perfect for the semester. With all of the mid-summer sales and discounts, now is the perfect time to refresh your closets (and possibly try out a new style). Hopefully, the following outfits will give you some ideas for outfits to look super stylish on campus!

Casual, Comfortable, and Chic

This outfit is perfect for those carefree days. The loose shirt, sandals, and braid brings a bit of summer into the classroom. the addition of fitted jeans makes the outfit a bit more polished and helps maintain the "learning environment" vibes in the classroom. Beauty wise, I like to keep things to a minimum during the year, with only a bit of tinted moisturizer, eyeliner, and a hint of lip color. Benefit's Cha-Cha tint is perfect for this purpose. Despite it being a lip balm, you can use it to add a summer glow to your cheeks, too!

Trendy with an Edge

  

This look is great for those who love playing around with pops of color, or even those who can't wait for Autumn to come around. The heathered cotton skirt gives just enough breathing room for those hot summer afternoons. The breezy shirt will help keep you cool on even the warmest of days, despite its dark color, and the shoes will help elongate your legs without the lack of comfort and support heels can add to an outfit. I love dark lipstick, so I decided to gather inspiration from Lorde. I suggest an all-over neutral face, with slightly exaggerated eyeliner and dark mauve lips (I have MAC's Rebel pictured here. Swatches can be found here).

Summertime Globetrotter

I really love the printed pant trend, so I had to find a way to incorporate a pair in this post. The pants give an earthy/bohemian feel to the outfit, which I further played up with the tasseled kimono jacket.The crop top adds a modern, trendy touch to a somewhat timeless print. I really love gold accents, so I decided to add gold accented sandals and a gold accented faux leather jacket.

Summer Sunsets

For those of us who are in no hurry to get rid of the carefree days of summer, these breezy dresses double as cover ups for late afternoon beach runs after class. The two dresses featured look great with tanned skin and sun-bleached hair, with the added benefit of being classroom appropriate.

I hope you enjoyed this post. If you have any ideas for future posts, put them in the comment box and remember to subscribe!

Happy Summer everyone!

Finally, Spring is Here!

After months of below freezing temperatures and inches of snow and freezing rain, spring is finally here to stay! I don't know about anyone else, but this winter was exceptionally brutal. But thankfully, the sunny 70°F weather is making a strong comeback. I've created a few looks to usher in this season of warmth, hopefully giving you some inspiration for your own early spring outfits.

Transition into Spring

As refreshing early spring tends to be, it brings a minor problem; temperature differences. I wake up around 8:30am for class, with the temperature at 55°F, yet by noon, it will be in the mid 70s. In order to accommodate for such temperature differences, I suggest wearing a scarf and warm footwear with socks. Layering allows temperature control thorough your outfit, which is a must for spring.

Dilettante in Denim

I imagine Jessa from HBO's Girls wearing this outfit, hence the title. This spring twist on the standby leggings-and-denim-shirt winter outfit brings life and excitement to an otherwise played out and fairly common clothing combination. The shirt and pants are light, so they won't keep you too warm, yet will insulate at night. Keeping your makeup light will add to the carefree vibe of the clothing, and adding quirky accessories will incorporate a personal touch.

Dauntless

I recently saw Divergent, and loved the edgy style of the Dauntless. This outfit would be good for the transition from class to a night out with a simple change in footwear. I suggest wearing coated denim instead of leather pants due to the breathable nature of coated denim. To increase versatility and save time, try putting your damp hair in a bun during the day so that when it's time to go out your hair will have waves for days.

Erudite

Yep, I just referenced Divergent again. I apologize. I tend to wear blue when I am giving a presentation, so I thought the title was fitting. Anyway, this outfit works well for spring. The light fabric and white pants are a stark contrast from the drab black and grey worn in the winter. The makeup would be better fit for a night out, yet could easily be toned down for daytime.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

Every once and a while there will be a day entirely in the 70s and 80s. This outfit is perfect for the warm weather. The cami and high wasted pants give a modern feel to an otherwise 90s throwback grunge outfit. If you plan on wearing this outfit to class, be careful your butt-holders (shorts) are holding your entire butt (if not wear a long sweater).

Springtime Festival

This outfit would be perfect for one of the many outdoors festivals that take place around this time of year. Not only is the outfit light and quirky, but the cardigan and boots eliminate the temperature issues you may face. The shorts will be the focal point in this sea of  faded neutrals.

Put-together in Plaid

Anyone who knows me is aware of my obsession with plaid shirts, so I am always finding ways to incorporate them into my weekly wardrobe. This outfit is perfect for those who want to subtly accentuate their waist. The slightly over-sized shirt and A-line skirt cinch together at your waist, exaggerating an hourglass figure in a classy yet casual fashion.


I hope this post helped you find inspiration for outfits for the season! I hope to have another post before the end of the semester and before finals, but until then, comment and subscribe!!!

Happy Spring everyone!