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!