A Few of My Favorite: 'Napoleon Perdis' Things

October 1, 2014, 7:01 am

≪ Previous: The Way We Used To Roll-Vintage Hair Tools

So now it's time to talk about Napoleon Perdis. I first found out about this brand in 2007 when I started watching Youtube videos. AskMeMakeup used a few NP products in her videos, and they seemed nice, but unnecessarily pricey. I still feel that the price is too high for some of these items, but when it comes to rating the quality of the product, there are clear winners here. NP's face products and foundations are especially impressive, so here are my top ten Perdis products, listed from least to greatest.

10. Auto Pilot Radiance Boosting Primer:

Very effective for what it's intended, this primer provides a lovely glow to the skin without making it appear greasy. Even under an already 'dewy' foundation, the result is fresh, not shimmery, and foundation lasts much longer. This product works best for dry skin, in my opinion.

Price: 42.00

9. Marshmallow Foaming Makeup Remover:

We love this stuff for removing makeup from clients before a makeover. No water necessary and it really does gently remove makeup without drying the skin. Just put a couple of pumps in the palm, rub together, apply to face, and tissue away. Ideal for on-the-go kits and makeup artists on location.

Price: 25.00

8.China Doll Foundation:

For a full coverage, matte finish foundation that's ideal for oily skin, this one really hits it out of the park. A little goes a long long way and pores are rendered almost invisible, especially when used with a primer. The velvety and seamless look of this foundation makes it one of the best porcelain finish options out there, and it includes an SPF of 15. The trade off? It's 50 (ouch) dollars for an extraordinarily small amount of product. That said, people come back and buy it again and again...so obviously not everyone finds that to be a deal-breaker.

Price: 50.00

7. Off Duty Tinted Moisturizer:

The simplicity of this product is almost obsolete now, in this world of BB and CC multi-tasking creams. It contains no SPF, just gentle tinted moisture that evens out skin tone or makes a great primer for dry skin. The light hydration is not greasy or heavy, so it also works well for oilier skins, and one pump really does cover a full face.

Price: 45.00

6. Divine Godess Lipstick in HARA:

I don't like a matte finish lipstick, so this one is perfect for me. I love the bold orange color and the feel of it is like a cross between a matte and a cream, so it doesn't dry my lips out. Thankfully, it also doesn't bleed into fine lines and wears really well. I reach for this one a lot.

Price:25.00

5. Neo Noir Liquid Liner:

I was amazed to find, among all the luxury brands we have at Dillard's, that there are so few quality liquid liners. The brush is either too thick, or the product itself is too shiny, or the felt tip is too stiff etc. This one is really good and rivals my Kat Von D Tattoo Liner for ease of application and longevity. My one complaint: it's not quite black enough.

Price: 32.00

4. The One Concealer:

This is a lovely lovely product. The consistency is a thick, almost gel texture that spreads easily. Very little goes a long long way and the result is excellent for dark undereye circles. It's a universal salmon shade that counteract blueness better than most and it sets very nicely. I use it for almost all skin tones but I do find it too light for very dark skins. Definitely the first product I fell in love with by Napoleon Perdis.

Price: 39.00

3. Sheer Genius Liquid Foundation:

Rated as one of the top foundations for maturing skin, this is a great investment product if you are willing to shell out the 60.00. I still think that's a ridiculous price for foundation but it is absolutely on par with Dior and Chanel when you consider the quality. A very very thin liquid foundation, you need to shake it up before dispensing, but the coverage is considerable. It goes on as a medium coverage but is buildable to full quite easily, and it doesn't settle into lines or lay on top of your moisturizer in an unflattering way. I do wish there were more color options, but I've been very impressed by this product so far, especially when coupled with the Radiance Boosting primer.

Price: 60.00

2.Cotton Butter Lip Balm Trio:

This is the most surprising product on my list. I did not even give these a second glance for the first month or so...they seemed overpriced at 45.00 and it was irritating to me that they were not available separately. However, I used the darkest one on a client who wanted a 'balmy' feeling nude lipstick and I became an instant fan. As soon as that client left, I wiped off my own lip color to apply it. The texture is heavenly...somewhere between a gloss and a balm, but the moisture is long lasting without being greasy. The colors are all lovely nude shades, all very different, and all flattering to a variety of skin tones. Test these out if you have a chance.

Price: 45.00

1. Stick Foundation:

Finally, my favorite product by Napoleon Perdis: The stick foundation. I am always on the lookout for non-SPF foundations that have maximum coverage, don't appear cakey after setting, and which blend flawlessly and smoothly over the skin. Most importantly, I need the foundation to look great on video and for photography. This one fits the bill. The coverage is spectacular, comparable with Dermablend, but it feels SO much better on my dry skin. It's easy to apply, blends effortlessly with a domed foundation brush, and because there is no SPF, it does indeed look great with flash photography. I like to use it sparingly on all but my very dry skinned clients, streaking it right from the tube onto the cheeks, forehead, and chin. Then I blend it with my brush so that the coverage to the t-zone is less pronounced. I then take a concealer brush to apply it more precisely where needed. No separate concealer needed! At 38.00, it's very affordable as well. I do wish it came in more colors, as with most NP products, but this is one foundation I plan to keep on hand for my own use as well as that of clients.

Price: 38.00

So, that's it. As always, let me know if you have any further questions about this brand and stop by to see me at Dillard's Edge Shop if you are in the Memphis area!

Xxoo,
Ashley

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The Nashville Boogie

November 13, 2014, 9:41 am

≫ Next: The Starlet Series Episode 1-1920

≪ Previous: A Few of My Favorite: 'Napoleon Perdis' Things

When the weather gets cooler, most of the time my thoughts turn to the upcoming event that I've attended every year since 2006, the Rockabilly Weekender (also known as Viva Las Vegas) in Las Vegas Nevada. The cold and humidity of Tennessee pales into insignificance when I anticipate the rousing music, warm sunshine, and delicious scent of exhaust that permeates that enormous car show. However, due to scheduling conflicts in the coming year I wouldn't be able to attend until Saturday, which makes the trip impractical in many respects. I was appalled by this initially, especially since 2015 will be the 20th wedding anniversary year for my husband and I. The idea of NOT going to Viva for the first time in 9 years was unfathomable to me and I really did do as much figuring as possible to organize a way for us to make it. After all, The Sonics will be there (one of my favorite bands) as will our friends Hillbilly Casino, whom I've been trying to get on the Viva schedule for years...I am certain their inclusion this time is solely due to their own merit as a band but hey, I'm still sneaking part of the credit.

Sadly, figuring and researching was to no avail. VLV 2015 is not in our future. But I'm learning to deal with it and I'll tell you why:

The Nashville Boogie has arrived! (For a complete list of bands and scheduled events, be sure to click that link!)

I first learned about The Boogie early in the year, when I was still planning for this year's VLV. The idea of a Nashville Based vintage-style weekender celebrating some of the best music rooted in Tennessee as well as the culture surrounding it, was thrilling, but seemed too far in the distance to be a reality to me. However Jason Galaz, the brain behind this whole scheme, has proven himself to be a formidable and ambitious talent in the world of event planning, so it shouldn't have surprised me when the venue, band list, dates, and website popped up suddenly with cheeky confidence that couldn't fail to impress. Jason's first festival, Muddy Roots, has joined Bonaroo in being one of the world's best received events, with attendees from all over the globe and an extraordinarily loyal following. I try never to miss it myself, no matter how dirty and grungy I might be by the end. Americana music needed a celebratory occasion like this, and I suspect this was the driving motivation behind this newly conceived event as well. The Boogie is bent on paying tribute to the signature sounds of the 40's and 50's that Nashville was built upon, and will showcase talent from around the country that represents those sounds today. I'm sure an invitation to this event has proven to be a breath of fresh air for many of them, and I'm certain it will prove to be one that lays the groundwork for future success in the years to come.

The venue, The Gaylord Opryland Hotel, is legendary in these parts.

One of the south's grand hotels,with seemingly infinite square footage, there will undoubtedly be ample space to host a event of this size, even considering its entirely indoor status. Hosting an outdoor festival of this type in Tennessee is simply not practical considering the unpredictable weather, so a luxury locale like this one will definitely help soften that reality. Discounted rates on the beautiful rooms, enormous meeting spaces to accommodate the fashion and car shows, as well as 17 acclaimed restaurants will also provide plenty of impetus to book and book quickly. In addition, the adjoining Opry Mills Mall contains a huge multi-screen movie theater, more restaurants, and plenty of outlet priced shopping. Music Valley Drive is walking distance from the resort as well, and boasts a few of the area's principal music-related attractions. The General Jackson showboat is docked close by and hosts a nightly dinner cruise, if that idea holds appeal for you. (If gambling is your thing, there's no casino around, but there IS the Grand Ol' Opry House where full price weekend show tickets could yield either a great pay-off of a performance or something akin to a total bust. No matter, the Boogie will have plenty of quality music to enjoy, regardless. ;-)

For those of you hankering for a great photo op, you could'nt really do much better than the Opryland Hotel. The heart of the resort features several grandiose conservatories, showcasing lush and gorgeously maintained plant life all year round. There are indoor canals with guided boat tours, elaborate fountains, and full-on waterfalls to provide a refreshing backdrop to your selfies.

I, for one, am excited to see how the event plays out and how the hotel staff responds to the vintage enthusiasts and rockabilly fans who will likely dominate the resort for a few days. There is so much promise, so much potential, so few drawbacks to the total prospect! I look forward to attending, helping promote in any way I can, enjoying the festivities so close to home, and generally helping The Nashville Boogie be all it can be.

Here's hoping that all of you will get your tickets quickly and join me in May!

Til Then,
So Long, Dearies!

XXOO,
Ashley

This post and others like it are made possible due to the kindess of my loyal sponsors, such as Glory Days Magazine. Glory Days is a vintage
lifestyle magazine heralding from New Zealand, where classic glamour and love for Rockabilly culture is still alive and well. Please click the link on the right and support Glory Days and all magazines like it, without whose readers events like The Boogie could slip past us all. We are a community and we need YOU in order to grow!

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The Starlet Series Episode 1-1920

November 22, 2014, 11:15 am

≫ Next: The Fitness Mountain

≪ Previous: The Nashville Boogie

After the success of my initial Starlet Series,back when I first started filming tutorials for Youtube, I decided that I missed the challenge of recreating looks worn by my favorite Starlets in their heyday. My 'Diamonds and Dames' series is an all-request situation so it isn't something that necessarily caters to my own favorites. Therefore, I decided to revisit that original endeavor year-by-year, instead of decade-by-decade.

Choosing a film heroine from 1920 was relatively easy. The only film from that year that came to mind immediately was The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, the first successful movie of the 'horror' genre.

About the Film:

The story follows a young man named Francis as he tells a friend about some grisly and mysterious adventures he and his fiance' Jane experienced at a local fair. According to Francis, a man named Dr Caligari visited the fair to show the 'talents' of an ominous-looking 'somnambulist' (sleepwalker) named Cesare. In the exhibit, Cesare predicts the death of Francis' friend Alan, which comes true, beginning to rouse suspicions against he and the doctor.

Jane becomes the next intended victim, but is saved by the investigative efforts of Francis and the staff of a local asylum. The story culminates in what is one of the first 'twist' endings of cinema.

Robert Wiene directed the film, as well as more than 35 others between 1915 and 1938. This was his most acclaimed, though the film opened to booing and unimpressed audiences initially. The surrealistic mood of the film, coupled with the unexpected ending was something movie-goers did not understand or appreciate at first. However, after re-marketing the film as a horror film, German and other audiences began to respect and enjoy these changes. The story, written by Hans Janowitz and Carl Mayer, was seen as something that provided the perfect collaboration between writer and director, using props and performances to create a dreamlike atmosphere. The sets were created from paper, much like a stage production, with shadows painted on the walls. Even today, the stark shapes and structures are impressive and memorable.

While I would normally rate films with a scale of 1-10, I don't feel that this film qualifies. It is not as much entertainment as it is historical art, to me, so I will simply state that it should definitely be seen if you have interest in film at all.

The Tutorial:
For my first episode of my newly revived Starlet Series, I decided to do an homage-look inspired by Jane of the film, as portrayed by actress Lil Dagover:

Although her look in the film varies by scene and according to her state of mind, I love the previous photo because it showcases an ethereal and strange beauty that was not really revisited in many films. Only her top lip is accentuated, to lend a forlorn quality to her face, the lashes are longer and fluttery (a fact I overlooked, actually, in my tutorial), and the hair is long and unstyled, in keeping with the trend of the earliest part of the decade.

Here is the youtube tutorial, followed by a written list of the products I used and an explanation of why. Enjoy!

The hair was pre-set with Hot Sticks and installed hair extensions by Tressmerize. The length should actually have been longer, but these were the longest I had. While not curling them would have resulted in a more authentic look, I felt that the whimsical aspect of the character needed the curls. However, the style can be done without them certainly, and with great effect. My top hair was parted in the middle and pin curled in opposite directions so that the root hair waved a bit before cascading into the curls. I wanted to incorporate a tiara into the final look, to be more directly indicative of the inspiration photo, but knew that I wouldn't get much personal use out of one, so chose not invest in one at this time, opting instead for a simple beaded headband from Claire's. The effect is similar but subdued. Drawing the widow's peak in was an afterthought but one I felt helped promote authenticity as well. And it was super easy to do!!

For makeup:

Primer: Clinique Moisture Surge

I use this as my primer due to my dry skin and the heavy coverage of my foundation, which needed a smooth base. For oily skin, use a perfecting base to give more of a velvet finish, if you wish. I love the Clarins Instant Smoothe Perfecting Touch makeup primer for filling in pores and lines too!

Foundation: Double Wear Foundation by Estee' Lauder

Although there is a bit of SPF in this product, the coverage is remarkable and legendary for brides and photo shoots. I don't know what makes it different but I'm an avid fan. My shade is Ecru, but there are a ton of shades to choose from and for lighter coverage there is a 'Light' option and also a super heavy coverage option that is similar in finish to Dermablend.

Concealers: Maybelline Concealer Stick in White, Cover Fx Concealer in Light

The white concealer makes a good highlight for photography as well as a great means to cover brows opaquely. The Cover FX is super heavy coverage with an emollient quality that makes it perfect for dry skin. It can crease a bit after application but covers splendidly.

Powder: Dermablend Original Setting Powder

The best setting powder ever. Hands down. The same quality as that HD stuff by Makeup Forever but really cheap, at 25.00 for quite a lot of product. It sets concealer, lipstick, eyeliner, whatever you need. And if you press your hands into it right afterward, all the original finish of the product comes right back. I adore it.

Eyeshadows: Although I mention the Toofaced and Naked palettes in this video, because that's what I used, I don't necessarily recommend any specific ones. I could just as easily used Wet N Wild or Nyx. Just make sure that you are using a good matte shadow, in both a charcoal gray, a taupe, and a warmer nude. Layering these colors will give that 'dusky' quality to the final black and white photos that simple grayscale won't do. Going back over the applied shades, layering the colors and blending, will also add that hazy look.

Lashes/ Mascara: The Lash Doubling Mascara by Clinique is my current favorite and it worked well for this look. I love the tapered wand since it makes it easier to do mistake-proof application to the lower and inner lashes. For falsies, go for longer whispy lashes like the Ardell Wispies, or maybe even some lower single lashes to get a more accurate look to the inspiration photo. This is the one area I wish I'd taken that extra step, instead of just grabbing my nearest natural lashes that had that sort of voluminous 1920's look to them. The lashes of Dagover were not really typical for the era and I should have embraced that.

Lipstick: I chose my old standby by Besame, which is old and has developed that crayon smell. I need to replace it. However, any dark burgundy or brown lipstick will work, as long as it is low-sheen. Make sure to set it with Dermablend powder though, to prevent it transferring to the blank bottom lip.

So that's that! Thanks again for watching and reading...I hope to be more active here in the future.

xxoo,
Ashley

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The Fitness Mountain

December 10, 2014, 7:58 am

≫ Next: A Few of my Favorite: 'Clarins' Things

≪ Previous: The Starlet Series Episode 1-1920

Today I did this workout, or at least I tried. There are moves I simply couldn't finish, but I suppose that's what the 'fitness mountain' is all about. From what I understand, you never really are supposed to be able to scale it.

Every December, I sort of take stock of my fitness and how I've managed when it comes to reaching my goals. I rarely have been very successful. I think it's because I don't have a lot of motivation in the cooler months and so when the weather starts to change, so does my workout regularity. I hope to be more consistent now since I've sort of found a 'magic hour' for me. After I drop the boys at school, and before anyone else is really up and active, I force myself to do my workout, even if I have limited time. On the days I have to be at work at 10am, I do a super quick ten to fifteen minute routine. For the days I don't have to be at Dillard's until one, or the days I'm off, I power through a 45 minute blaster. This helps keep me from plateauing, I feel, but it also keeps me working out regularly, which is even more important in my book.

I've also been mostly sticking to workouts I enjoy doing, ones I don't dread. Barre and Pilates are my favorites and I think they're what I need to get me where I want to be physically. But I do try to incorporate a high impact cardio in there every so often to exercise my heart more thoroughly.

Working away from home has been awful for my diet...I tend to eat a lot of junk on the nights I get home later because, who knows why, I feel simply FAMISHED when I work late. Even if I eat dinner, I want 'second dinner' when I get home.

I'm thinking that investing in some low-calorie snacks for those late night cravings will help a lot. I've made a pretty valid success of upping my water intake as well and I'm losing weight, regardless of the late night junk food, because of my increased activity. Who knew that running a makeup counter would be an 'active' profession? I sure didn't.

So that's an update on my fitness routine and progress. I still haven't reached Barbarella status, but I always have that as a goal...heck even when I'm in my eighties, I'll likely wanna be Barbarella
Psychadella.

xxoo,

Ashley

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A Few of my Favorite: 'Clarins' Things

December 11, 2014, 6:33 pm

≫ Next: Fashion Flashback Friday: Pierre Balmain

≪ Previous: The Fitness Mountain

As of November 1st, I am managing the Clarins counter at my local Dillard's department store. I think a lot of people were under the impression that I was 'assigned' to this counter after having 'paid my dues' at the Edge Shop area of the store (the Edge shop is like a mini Sephora, carrying a number of familiar brands). But no, I actually chose Clarins, having been researching and coming to love the products over the course of the summer and early fall.

For those of you who don't know about this brand (I was surprised by how many people I consulted did not), Clarins was established in 1954 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins, an avid skincare enthusiast and cosmetician who wanted more natural products to be available to the public. The brand focused on using plant extracts in place of manufactured ingredients and still does today. By 1962, he was making huge advances in the skincare industry, developing the first 'sculpting cream' for the body.

In 1974, Clarins began a worldwide distribution campaign and ten years later, the company appeared on the Paris Stock Exchange and became a major contender in the field. 1991 saw the company developing color cosmetics as well, with the focus still being on purity and natural skin health. Since then, the hugely popular Double Serum, mens' skincare line, and anti-aging foundations have helped launch the company into barefaced competition with other luxury beauty brands.

I was first drawn to Clarins by a lipstick: Clarins Red. I loved the feel of it, the shade, and the beautiful gold tube. Since then, I've come to love the skincare more than any I've tried. Below I've listed my ten favorite Clarins products, by far the hardest list I've made. There is seriously SO MUCH this brand has to offer, to the extent that the wonderful red lipstick that initially drew me did not even make the list.

After reviewing the list, feel free to check the embedded video featuring some of my favorite Clarins products and my newly developed 'No-Makeup Makeup-Look' that I created for my non-makeup-wearing skincare customers. So far, the look has a 100 percent success rate among ladies who previously had no interest in wearing makeup at all!

FAVORITES:

1. SKIN ILLUSION FOUNDATION:

Topping the list is the fabulous 'Skin Illusion' foundation, my current 'all-time' favorite foundation to use. I first gave it a try when an oily skinned girl prone to blemishes asked me for a good makeup base. Usually, I would use an oil-free mattifying foundation, but something about her skin texture scared me away from that idea, since I feared it would look 'cakey' instead of clear. I tried the Skin Illusion and started a new love affair. Instead of covering up her blemishes and texture issues, it seemed to just blur and diffuse them, lending a softened and still youthful look to her skin. The finish is satiny smooth and only slightly luminous, so it's not too dewy for the oily skins. The fragrance, derived from plant extracts and not perfumes, is the best of any foundation I've tried, almost a cucumber-melonish quality. I have begun using it exclusively for work and although I still incorporate some of my old favorites for other occasions, I almost hate to abandon it for any reason. It's just that good.

Price: 39.00 retail

2.DOUBLE SERUM:

An all inclusive anti-aging serum, Double Serum combines 20 plant extracts to create one concentrated treatment method for all skin types. It smells delightful, absorbs quickly, and has notable results. After a few weeks of use, the majority of women polled agreed that they like it better than their previous serum, a study that I didn't really care about until I noticed how much I liked it myself.

Price: 85.00-115.00

3. WATER COMFORT ONE-STEP CLEANSER:

This product was truly innovative, in my opinion, and a completely new concept for me. It is marketed as a one-step cleanser for normal or dry skin that uses peach essential water to make skin feel soft and supple without rinsing. It also removes light makeup and impurities with one swipe. I'm a cold cream or cleansing oil lover when it comes removing my makeup at the end of the day, but I decided to try this first thing in the morning, since I read recently that it isn't necessary to lather and rinse your skin in the morning, especially for maturing or dry types. I'm so glad I did. I feel like my skin is every bit as clean as when I was using a foaming cleanser in the morning, but it feels significantly softer and my moisturizer and makeup apply more evenly. I just can't praise it enough.

Price: 35.00

4.BEAUTY FLASH BALM:

I'll admit I was a little confused by this product at first. Is it a mask... a primer... a moisturizer? What I did know was that it was the single best seller in my counter history and ladies absolutely loved it. So I studied up on it and it turns out, it's sort of all three. As a mask, it tightens, hydrates, and brightens skin in minutes. As a moisturizing primer, it minimizes the appearance of pores, providing a smooth and supple base on which to apply foundation. I love the Instant Smooth Makeup Primer as well, but being a dry skinned girl, I am far more attracted to this one.

Price: 46.00

5.EXTRA FIRMING FOUNDATION:

Featuring the same clean cucumber sent and satiny finish as the Skin Illusion foundation, this one is created for the mature crowd and works beautifully when it comes to evening out redness, improving texture, and increasing the elasticity of aging skin. My mother has rosacea and this foundation improved the appearance of her skin in merely one use, not only by evening the tone, but giving it a good healthy glow that was very noticeable.

Price: 45.00

6.LOTUS FACE TREATMENT OIL:

Clarins is known for their treatment oils for body and face, but this one has the most impressive track record. Rebalancing oil of geranium and rosemary help to calm the overproduction of sebum in oily skinned people, minimizing the appearance of pores and conserving the 'healthy oils' that the skin naturally produces. Blemish prone users may see a noticeable improvement in skin's smoothness and have reported that blemishes decreased significantly, not only the existing variety but also the reoccurring.

Price: 52.00

7.CLARINS CLEANSING MILK:

Available in three formulas, the Clarins Cleansing Milks are world famous for their simplicity and effectiveness. They cleanse without drying, utilizing natural plant extracts to treat and pamper all skin types. My favorite is the green one, for normal to dry skin, since it uses sweet almond, marshmallow, and linden to soften and maintain moisture balance in a delicate but effective way.

Price: 34.00

8.INSTANT SMOOTH GOLDEN GLOW:

While I personally don't have the need for sunless tanners, and that's one of the things Clarins does best, I had to be a third party observer on the effectiveness of this. What I noticed is that, just as the Instant Smooth primer fills in pores and lines to create a flawless foundation base, the Instant Smooth Tanner does the same for a tan. No orange cast, just a lovely sunny glow and super smooth skin. Very impressed.

Price: 36.00

9.VITAL LIGHT NIGHT CREAM

Clarins has a TON of brilliant moisturizers, so this was a very hard choice. The Vital Light is marketed and geared towards mature skinned ladies who want replenishing radiance, but I've discovered a large number of 30-somethings purchasing and loving it too. It has a refreshing feel on the skin and truly seems to brighten and hydrate the skin overnight so that it looks its best in the morning. Therefore, it got top moisturizer spot on this review, after much deliberation, and it will be the one I turn to when I finish my Multi-Active Night Cream...also a great product.

Price: 93.00

10.HYDRA-QUENCH CREAM GEL

Geared towards those who want straight-forward moisture without anti-aging benefits (much like the Moisture Surge line in Clinique), the Hydra Quench Cream Gel makes a great supplemental moisturizer for dehydrated skin and an excellent foundation primer for dry skin. It hydrates a little longer than my beloved Moisture Surge, so I felt I had to include it here in this countdown although I'll admit that the strange smell is somewhat off-putting to me. It's almost a 'Fruit Loops' smell and from my research, it seems that many users have issues with the fragrance. That said, Clarins responds that there are absolutely no 'perfumes' in this product and that the fragrance is due to a subtle change in the extracts with which it is formulated. Either way, in spite of the smell, I think it's still a bang-up product and the rest of the products in the line are impressive as well. For instance the Hydra-Quench Cream-Mask really did hydrate my skin all night, whereas the Moisture Surge Mask was literally GONE within an hour.

Price: 49.50

So that's that.

Below is my 'No Makeup' tutorial and as always, feel free to ask me anything you like about these products in the comments. I look forward to interacting with other fans of this brand!

xxoo,
Ashley

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Fashion Flashback Friday: Pierre Balmain

January 2, 2015, 8:58 am

≫ Next: Monday on Lisa Freemont Street

≪ Previous: A Few of my Favorite: 'Clarins' Things

I have been doing a Fashion Flashback feature on Facebook and Instagram for a while now, but there are always so many great photos to share. So I decided that starting in 2015, I'd devote a blog entry to the week's featured designer as well.

This week, it was Pierre Balmain's vintage designs.

Four facts about Balmain:

1. He was quoted as saying that 'Dressmaking is the architecture of movement'.

2.Balmain worked closely with Dior and credited the conception of 'New Look Fashion' to himself, although ultimately the credit has remained with the former.

3.Classically designed ballgowns were one of his signatures, showcasing exquisite detailing and extravagantly full skirts.

The above masterpiece is credited to Balmain much of the time but I am still uncertain, since the internet is notorious for misleading folks in this respect. Regardless, it definitely speaks of his style and it is fascinating, so I included it here.

4.Balmain also designed for theater, ballet, and film, as well as royalty. Queen Sirikit of Thailand commissioned him to design her 1960 wardrobe for her visit to the US.

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Monday on Lisa Freemont Street

January 12, 2015, 10:04 am

≫ Next: Tuesday-Wednesday on Lisa Freemont Street

≪ Previous: Fashion Flashback Friday: Pierre Balmain

I realize that a lot of you who read this blog don't really frequent some of my other social media formats, like Facebook and Instagram. So while I have 'themes' for those sites, for just about every day of the week, you all sort of miss out on that. So because lengthy blogging is already an issue for me, I thought short dedicated posts like this one might brighten your day a bit and still keep us connected. I'm nice that way. :)

My Instagram Mondays are dedicated to all you self-stylists out there. I have a hashtag going that has really become so inspiring for me...it's #wedontneednostinkingstylist. So if you are Instagram, please continue to submit your photos because I choose a 'Poster Girl of the Week' there, featuring some of my favorites. This week's #lfstpostergirl was CaptainBringDown, and here is the photo she entered under the hashtag.

I just love the caption she posted with it, something along the lines of her husband feeling she looked 'crazy' but she knew it was amazing. And she's right. Great example of using a bumper bang to compliment a hat.

On Facebook, I do 'Music for Monday', where I share a live performance or vinyl copy of a great song. This week, I couldn't help but share the great Sister Rosetta Tharpe again, since well, she's just about as good as it gets. It is a performance of her's from the 1960's, in Manchester England I believe.

I hope you enjoy these quick inspirational entries.

And as always,
So Long, Dearies!!

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Tuesday-Wednesday on Lisa Freemont Street

January 15, 2015, 6:58 am

≫ Next: The Best of 2014

≪ Previous: Monday on Lisa Freemont Street

Tuesdays are Temptation Days on Lisa Freemont Street.

This week, I couldn't help but share this rediscovered 2010 creation by the incomparable Alexander McQueen. The dress has such a classic Dior feel about it but the lace overlay gives it almost a Giger-esque quality that I absolutely love. It's modern and sleek and insect-like and still timeless.

Wednesday is usually a day for product shares but I missed that post yesterday on social media. So I thought I'd throw in a suggestion here on the blog that might be helpful to some of you.

Right now I'm really loving Estee Lauder eyeshadows. In spite of the pricey downside, the shadows themselves are creamy, blendable, and gorgeously pigmented. This palette especially pleases me since the brown is not a typical one, having a sort of reddish quality that really comes off beautifully on blue eyes. The lighter taupe shade is also a beautiful brow shade for blondes. Definitely a winner:

That's all for now. Looking forward to FINALLY filming a tutorial today and getting back on the YouTube train!

'Til Next Time,

So Long, Dearies!!

XXOO,
Ashley

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The Best of 2014

January 26, 2015, 9:42 am

≫ Next: The Week in Lisa Freemont Street-January 26-31, 2015

≪ Previous: Tuesday-Wednesday on Lisa Freemont Street

When we get back to formula on Lisa Freemont Street, I will be doing a weekly post, showcasing all that happened on my channel and on social media during that week. So stay tuned for that. Until then, this post is dedicated to last year and I'm sorry it's running so late. I know some of you look forward to this post and honestly, I do as well. It's fun to go back and take stock, so to speak, of your year, determining what things remain the most memorable and which ones deserve top honors.

So let's get started.

1.Product of the Year:FAB Eye Duty Triple Remedy
Since I started my job at Dillard's department store, I've had the liberty of trying a lot of products and really boosting the quality of my current skincare routine. My favorite product this year was the First Aid Beauty Triple Eye Remedy. It's a too-wordy name, but this little product packs a very solid punch and I still use it daily. See more about the Eye Remedy here, in this post.

2. Favorite Book:Foxfire-Anya Seton (1953)

I lived up to my ambition last year and visited the library quite a few times. There are a few books that I enjoyed this year, but the one I enjoyed the most was Foxfire, by Anya Seton. If you're not familiar with Anya and her brilliant works of historically based fiction, you'll do well to consider her. If you've ever seen the Vincent Price/ Gene Tierney film 'Dragonwyck', you're familiar with her gothic style, as the novel was written by her. Foxfire is similar, in that the hero of the story is a dark and brooding sort, but takes place mostly in the desert southwest of the U.S. during the Great Depression. Again, her descriptive capacity and means of engaging the reader in the evolving storyline, is palpable. I believe this is the last of her books that I haven't read...I'm strongly considering reading them all again.

3. Favorite Album:Metamodern Sounds in Country Music-Sturgill Simpson

Of all the year's albums that I have discovered, this one stayed most frequently at the top of our Spotify playlist. We have heard it too many times to count and are even more avid supporters of this artist. Sturgill's rendition of 'When in Rome's' classic song, 'The Promise', is the stuff of dreams. Seriously...it will make you cry.

4. Favorite Television Show: Parks and Recreation

I got rid of my satellite service in 2014, so we have mostly been enjoying classic re-runs of Good Times, All in the Family, and the like. It's a rare thing for us to stream a new television show on Hulu or Netflix, so I think it bears mentioning that Parks and Recreation is the only one that I've really attempted to 'keep up' with. After all, when you have no option for recording via DVR, you tend to lose your motivation to watch something...unless it's really good. And this show is REALLY good, as most of you know. I think Ron Swanson is even more a hero, in the newer seasons, and April & Andy remain one of my all time favorite comedy couples.

5. Favorite Live Musical Performance: Graveyard-Hitone, Memphis

I saw a few live performances this year but Graveyard remains my favorite. It's a tough call too, because Muddy Roots was especially great this year, as was Viva Las Vegas. But there is something about seeing this group of not-so-attractive fellas do something so great with their genre of seventies influenced rock and roll. In spite of standing for a significant amount of time, I wasn't ready for it to be over and that's really saying something. Let's just restate the obvious here: the Swedes understand music and they understand how to pay homage to the past without sounding dated. This was an incredible performance and the sound at the Hitone has really upped the game, in Memphis.

6. Favorite Movie:Mockingjay Part 1

While there were definitely better movies to be released this past year, this remains my favorite. It proved that the 'Part 1', 'Part 2' trend for final movies in a planned trilogy is not always a bad choice. While some critics labeled it as slow, I thought it was perfectly cast and well paced. It brought the viewer into the story deliberately, methodically, and with a sense of dread that really showcased the skill of the director, Francis Lawrence. The performances, score, and cinematography also increased the momentum of the franchise. I felt it was the best yet, in the series.

7.Favorite Clothing Purchase: Whirling Turban Wing Bust

It has been a privilege and an honor to represent Whirling Turban for the past few years at Viva Las Vegas, and 2014 was no exception. My favorite item of clothing of the year, was this spectacular wing bust evening dress that Katherine custom designed for me. The brocade and lace combine to make it an eye-catching but entirely period authentic piece. And the fit, is perfect as always.

8.Favorite Photo:Bellows Rouge Test Shot

Since I don't post photos of my children online, typically, I will leave my actual favorites out and settle for another shot that makes me very happy. This was a 'test shoot' for a new photo adventure that I'm embarking on for the coming year. It's a project/ collaboration with Memphis photographer Jerry Plunk, that will aim to re-create the best in Old Hollywood Glamour portraits. Taking Inspiration from famous Hollywood head shots as well as the unmistakable style of George Hurrell, Bellows Rouge intends to make every lady or gent feel as though they are ready for their close-up, in the truest sense of the expression. It's the next step in my styling endeavors, and I couldn't be happier with our 'trial run'.

9.Favorite Beer: Scottish Ale by High Cotton

I don't remember being as impressed this year with another beer as I was with the Scottish Ale by High Cotton Brewing. The fact that it's local gives it a bit of an edge as well.

10.Favorite Moment:The Wedding of a Moose

I had a lot of good and great moments in 2014. But seeing two of my favorite people join their lives was a definite highlight of, not only the year, but of my life in general. Words can't express how happy I am for the both of them. In addition, my dear friends from California got to join in the merriment! How could I not be overjoyed?

11.Favorite Tutorial of Mine: Jane

It was great fun and very motivating to get back to my Starlet Series. This one turned out pretty well, I thought.

12.Video Tutorial of the Year:

Kayley Melissa is someone I just started following this past year and she did a SPOT ON rendition of Cersei Lannister's 'Purple Wedding' hairstyle from the Game of Thrones television show that blew me away. Not only does it showcase a great amount of skill, as a self-taught hair artist, but she got the technique down by simply looking at photos, from what I understand. As someone who does this on a daily basis, and has for years, I can vouch for how difficult such a thing can be. She, quite simply, nailed it.

So that's my year in a nutshell. See you next time, Dearies!!

xxoo,
Ashley

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The Week in Lisa Freemont Street-January 26-31, 2015

February 2, 2015, 7:17 pm

≫ Next: Diamonds & Dames - Barbara Wayne

≪ Previous: The Best of 2014

So much has gone on this week. In addition to acting as a consultant for a local retro lingerie shop that's opening here in my neighborhood, I'm also attempting to get a glamour photography venture off the ground, file my taxes, arrange field trips, sell cosmetics, curl hair, and so much more. But it's my life and I'm perfectly fine with all that.

Anyway, here is a quick recap of the stuff that went on in Social Media World this week, Lisa Freemont Street-Style.

Sunday:

Quote of the Week:

Monday:

Music for Monday-In searching for a non-annoying version of this song for my daughter, on the Youtubes, I came across this little gem. So glad I did. It's probably my new favorite rendition of the classic ditty:

Poster Girl of the Week:

I love this photo of the lovely Julia, who also goes by @blogtail on Instagram. The makeup and hair combine to make a lovely subtle vintage impression, reminiscent in some ways to Taylor Swift in her everyday style, which incidentally, I love.

Tuesday:

Temptation Tuesday:

Since I'm headed for the Nashville Boogie in a couple of months, I am sort of infatuated with all sorts of vintage western-wear and western motifs right now. This skirt made me gasp a little, I'm not gonna lie. Admittedly, I saw it on Pinterest so I didn't really bother looking to see if it was still for sale or if it was even my size. But how fabulous is this one?

Wednesday:

Wednesday Product Share:

I have super high hopes for this new foundation by Clinique. It's called Beyond Perfecting Concealer + Foundation and it's a transfer-resistant, high-coverage product that rivals Estee' Lauder's world famous Double Wear foundation in it's effectiveness but costs significantly less. I wore it all day with no telltale signs of wear on my skin and it has a natural satiny finish that will look beautiful in photographs, I'd wager. 27.00...yep...27.00. Pretty fabulous, right?

Thursday:

Tutorial for the Week:

This week's tutorial revisited a classic Vargas print that inspired me back in 2008, when I started my channel. I created the look with more volume and in better quality this time. I hope you all will feel it's a worthy addition to the Classic Pin Up Series.

Thursday Swoon:

A very young John Wayne was the swoon of the week.

and last but not least, for...

Friday:

Fashion Flashback Friday:

Our fashion flashback of the week was a gorgeous shot of the lovely Dovima in Balenciaga, from the early 50's.

So that was it, for the week. I enjoy doing themed days and digging up stuff for you guys. So hopefully, sharing them here on the blog will help pull in some of you who don't follow me on social network's more common spots and keep us connected.

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Diamonds & Dames - Barbara Wayne

March 18, 2015, 1:22 pm

≫ Next: Viva Approaches!

≪ Previous: The Week in Lisa Freemont Street-January 26-31, 2015

So I had this ambitious idea to do a weekly post, sharing all of my Social Media activity over the past week and calling it the 'Week in Lisa Freemont Street'...unfortunately, I just don't always have the time to post , so I hated to see that be such a sporadic entry. Therefore, I've removed those posts so as not to mislead my readers, and am going back to my blog 'formula', such as it is.

My 'formula', initially, was to create posts around my YouTube videos, so there would be a place to put supplemental info like product information, inspiration photos etc. That's what this post will be, and in the future, if I am inspired to do other entries (as I'm sure I will be), those will come as well. It's just not logical for me to think that having the time to post regular weekly posts will be a reachable thing at this juncture. I'm busy and I embrace that.

So anyhoo, last week's entry to the 'All Request' series, 'Diamonds & Dames', was one that I've been requested to do for a while, the casual bathtub updo that Shirley Ross wears in Paris Honeymoon.

The movie is not a great one. 1939 was a pivotal and spectacular year for movies (I mean, come on...Gone With the Wind, Mr Smith Goes to Washington, The Wizard of Oz, Goodbye Mr Chips...the list goes on and on), so the less fabulous movies sort of faded into insignificance over time. Unfortunately, this was a mediocre offering at best. I think it was originally supposed to be conceived in title as a sequel to Waikiki Wedding (1937) but it is definitely not. Instead it's just a simple little love triangle situation with a few good songs thrown in. While the story is tepid and the performances a bit stilted, one can't deny the power of Bing's vocals and his duet with Shirley Ross, 'I Have Eyes', which is undeniably appealing.

The hairstyle I did for this video is one that is based on the aforementioned 'bathtub hair' and it's suitable for pretty much any occasion, though it was definitely worn as a 'casual' style in the film. The hair was meticulously set, yes, but it was also supposed to suggest that it had been just 'thrown up' for the bath, and therefore not too much care was taken in my version to construct or polish the curls.

Shirley Ross (as Barbara Wayne, in the film):

Yours Truly, hamming it up:

Supply List:

You will need the following items.

1. A head o' hair. At least shoulder length.
2. Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion. Another setting lotion can also be used.
3. Foam Rollers, smaller sizes.
4. Hot Sticks (or you can use bendable rollers on damp hair alternatively)
5. A Denman Styling brush (yep, I'm specific about the brand.)
6. Grip Tuth Styling combs (yep, I'm specific about that too)
7. Hair Spray (not so specific here, but I love Elnett and Vintage Glam, from Sally Beauty)

Steps:
*Please follow along with the following video, as you read these steps. That way I ain't gotta take pictures too...ya get me?

1. While hair is damp from a shower,prep it with a setting lotion and part it on the side. Then roll the top, front section away from the part, using smaller rollers. This is especially important if you have bangs, since wet setting them will make them more durable.

2. Roll the rest of the hair in bendy rollers, if damp, or blow hair dry like I did and apply my favorite heated rollers, Hot Sticks. The placement of the rollers isn't really important for this style. Just get it up there and try to be gentle.

3. When hair is set, (I usually wait about an hour with Hot Sticks, if I can. So they'll have plenty of time to cool...)unroll the curlers carefully and brush through so that hair is nice and frizzy. You're mainly trying to break up the product here. If you're concerned about damage, brush carefully from the tips to the roots.

4. After brushing the hair out, smooth out the front section first. Arrange it however you feel it looks best; don't mimic me too closely here, since not all faces are the same. Focus on smoothing it into shiny waves and pinning as you see fit.

5.Now brush out the rest of the curls a little more smoothly. Gather them and bring them to the top of the head, securing with a Grip Tuth comb facing downward into the upswept hair.

6. A lot of hair will have fallen loose over the top of your head. Now grab individual sections and brush them over your fingers until they shine...pin and arrange them as you like. Keep some of the 'frizz' in there since that's sort of the point, in these era specific styles. Little tendrils falling over and around your forehead are a plus; they add softness and femininity.

7. That's pretty much it. From there you can run a natural bristle brush up the back and spray those baby hairs into submission, add a flower clip, a ribbon...whatever.

Hopefully this little video sufficed for those of you who requested it. It was fun to do and I have so much more in store for you!!

Til Next Time,

xxoo,
Ashley

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Viva Approaches!

March 26, 2015, 7:00 am

≫ Next: Foundation & Flowers

≪ Previous: Diamonds & Dames - Barbara Wayne

So if you are going to Viva this year, chances are that this time next week you'll be catching a flight or high-tailing it down to the Orleans lobby for a cup of coffee...well, maybe not. Maybe in a couple of hours you'll be doing that.

I won't be attending VLV this year; the dates conflicted with some other plans of mine and this was probably evident by my lack of Viva related posts on Youtube or Facebook for 2015. I am going to the Nashville Boogie in about a month, so right now all of my planning and outfit selections are based around that. But I'll truly miss Las Vegas and the Orleans and that heady blend of smoke, bacon, coffee, beer, and perfume that hits the nose when you first step through the doors and spy those giant cheesy alligators. Don't forget to snap a photo or two...it will be your yearly tradition.

So this year, it's the Boogie for me. But for those of you who are headed out this week and haven't started packing (and if you have been following me for any length of time, you know that you should have packed a MONTH ago, ya slacker!), here is a video that will be helpful to you in that endeavor.

I have also taken the time to create a playlist of all of my VLV videos of years past, whether they be prep videos, post videos, or my 'Viva Spoils' haul videos from the event. And here's that:

So enjoy your event, guys! And as always, don't miss the Doubledown Saloon, The Sonics (playing at the car show), or Frankie's Tiki Room!

xxoo,
Ashley

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Foundation & Flowers

April 7, 2015, 10:04 am

≫ Next: The Ultimate Gift With Purchase!!

≪ Previous: Viva Approaches!

Llast week on my channel, I visited a couple of topics for which I've gotten requests, and tried to knock them out together.

One is about a simple every-day foundation routine for the face, and the other deals with that age-old challenge of properly placing flower clips into a vintage hairstyle. I tried to keep both of the videos accessible and simple enough for the beauty novice, while still appealing to those of us who have been developing our routines for years.

Foundation:

I've been playing around with my foundation routine a lot lately, mainly because my job at the Clarins counter makes it necessary to become familiar with not only foundation in general, but also different application techniques for the different formulas as well.

For now, I'm enjoying a natural-finish foundation that lasts all day and doesn't mask imperfections, but instead blurs them. You'll hear me say this a lot but I can't seem to mention it enough because I feel it's so important.

Here are the steps I've been following, sorely lacking pictures, but hopefully the embedded video will substitute for that somewhat.

Step One:
Make sure skin is cleansed, toned, and ready for product. I always use a serum and a moisturizer in the morning, because I like the radiance it gives my skin and how much easier it makes it to smooth on my foundation product. However, my Beauty Flash Balm by Clarins also provides this so it's just sort of a little bonus. That brings us to:

Step Two:

Primer. Again, I'm using the Beauty Flash Balm, but I also like to use Clinque's Moisture Surge on occasion, and if you have oily skin, a nice mattifying, silicone based primer like Lancome's La Base, works well. For drug store options, I haven't found a good base that I feel has the finish I prefer. So feel free to make some recommendations in the comments if you want to help out. I'm stumped.

Step Three:

Foundation. I usually use my fingers to warm up the product and then pat it onto my skin, focusing on getting it evenly distributed.

Step Four:

Blend. I've been using the Flawless Face Brush by Real Techniques with good results. I love a nice densely rounded brush for this purpose. There are definitely better ones than this out there...the Studio Gearl rounded foundation brush is absolutely phenomenal. But it's pricey, at 40.00

The latter brush can be used in buffing, circular motions and will provide a flawless airbrushed finish using almost any formula of liquid or cream foundation. The one I'm using in the video works better if the blending is in firm downward strokes until no brush lines are visible.

Step Five:

Conceal. Use concealer minimally. I focus mine on the inner under-eye and I do use a high coverage product and a blending brush. However, a brightening appearance without a cakey look can be achieved by using a lighter concealer formula like the Clarins Instant Light Brush On Perfector.

Step Six:

Sculpt/ Add Color. I next apply a bronzer just at my hairline and jawbone to add some color. I rarely 'contour', but you can also take the time to do this, if you like. Blush comes next, in a powder or cream, applied at the apples of the cheeks and blended toward the hairline.

Step Seven:

Set. A nice loose powder like the Dermablend Original Setting powder, works beautifully for dryer skins. For those of you who have oily skin, a pressed powder can be utilized, but just be carefully to pat it on and not rub your foundation off with the puff, brush, or sponge you use.

Here is the video, and please let me know if you have any questions about this or any other technique. I'll certainly try to assist.

Flower Placement:

When it comes to placing flowers in vintage styles, it's hard to find a better resource than in Old Hollywood Photos or Classic Pin Up Art. Here are a few photos that can help make the job easier.

1. Small flowers can be clustered or placed on either side of a center parted style or pompadour. The latter was quite common in the 1940's for sure.

2. Mid-Sized flowers work beautifully in clusters or placed at the side of the head.

3. Large flowers work beautifully when supporting a 1940's updo or a simple tropical style, as was common in many of Alberto Vargas' paintings of the era.

Continue to play around with your own collection and see what looks most flattering for you. And here is a rambling little video on the subject as well.

To purchase flower clips, there are numerous companies to visit. I vouch for the quality of these two companies, for sure, but there are many popular options so make sure to visit the sites that your favorite pin up models also promote...

Belle Blossoms:
http://www.belleblossoms.com

Vintage Box 1947:
http://www.vintagebox1947.com

Til Next Time,

So Long Dearies!

↧

The Ultimate Gift With Purchase!!

April 24, 2015, 7:08 pm

≫ Next: Things to Love About Memphis

≪ Previous: Foundation & Flowers

I posted a brief link about this on Instagram today but the details might be a bit confusing so I'll clarify here and share it to my social media. :)

I've been given a challenge by Dillard's to use my social media contacts to promote our yearly spring 'Sensational' or 'SUNsational' event, which will this year focus on summer/vacation beauty routines and ways to revamp your makeup and skincare for warmer weather. Clarins, the counter I manage, is especially focused on these subjects since sun and skincare are what we specialize in.

Therefore, I'm reaching out to all of you by offering the 'Ultimate Gift With Purchase' to one happy customer who purchases two products from me before May 1st. The gift basket is summer skincare themed and includes over 300.00 worth of Clarins products, including a full skincare regimen AND suncare/self tanning collection!!

The products in the basket will be suitable for all skin types, so no worries there! And let me just say, that SPF 50 UV Plus/Anti Pollution fluid is unbelievable!!

Okay so here are the rules:

1. You must order two products at a 40.00 total minimum purchase price. Orders over 50.00 though, will be FREE SHIPPING, so keep that in mind.

To order:
a. Call me at Dillard's before May 1st...I am off on Tuesday the 28th, but I'll be there Saturday through Wednesday of next week otherwise. The number is 901-685-0382 ext 5016. My hours vary but anyone who answers should be able to tell you when I'll be in for that day. You MUST order from me to be eligible for this offer since I am the one hosting this particular giveaway.

b. If you can't reach me, simply email your contact info to lisafreemontstreet@gmail.com. I will call you or text you lickety split!!

2. You may order any two products from any two brands, to qualify. The brands we carry at my location are:

1. St Tropez Tanning
2. Strivectin Cosmeceuticals
3. Osmotics Cosmeceuticals
4. XEN Tan-Self Tanning
5. Philosophy Skincare
6. Anastasia Brow Products
7. Deborah Lippman nail products
8. Studio Gear Cosmetics
9. Napoleon Perdis Cosmetics
10. Stila Cosmetics
11. Clarisonic Skincare
12. Murad Skincare
13. Clarins
14. Clinique
15. Estee Lauder
16. Lancome
17. Elizabeth Arden
18. Fashion Fair

We also carry most designer fragrances.

3. This offer is open within the US only, no international orders can be accepted (unfortunately).

4. Your payment will not be processed until the 1st. Orders will ship on or around the 2nd. The drawing for the giveaway will take place on the 2nd of May.

5. A free gift will be included with EVERY order. However, one of you will also receive the gift basket, which means that if you need products anyway, this makes it a special deal!!

Let me know if you have any questions via email at lisafreemontstreet@gmail.com

I hope to speak to some of you in person very soon! I'm excited about this and know you'll love every flippin' thing in this basket!!

xxoo,

Ashley

↧

Things to Love About Memphis

August 6, 2015, 2:01 pm

≫ Next: Diamonds and Dames Does: Kate Nesbitt

≪ Previous: The Ultimate Gift With Purchase!!

Sometimes, when I say I live in Memphis, I get an admiring and fascinated look. Usually this comes from folks overseas who have an affinity for soul, for Elvis, and for history. For those who live in the States, especially the neighboring southern states, the reaction is entirely different. Memphis has a reputation, admittedly founded in some truth, for being a violent city, a city of unrest, a city of poverty and lots of petty crime. The last time I checked, on the City Data website, the crime rate was as high or higher than almost any other US city. Many are bent on getting out of the city, opting instead for the outer edges which are considered 'safer', such as Collierville, Cordova, and Germantown.

I am not one of those people. Living in Midtown Memphis has spoiled me for those generic outer-edge towns, and I'll admit to being something of a snob about it.

Yes, I have children and some people feel that I am crazy for conscientiously choosing to raise my family in a city like this one. But along with some great vintage photos of my hometown, obtained mostly from the wonderful 'I Love Memphis' blog, I thought I'd give you a few reasons that I love the city where I was born, and to which I returned after years of small-town living in Middle Tennessee.

1. A LOVE FOR HISTORY

In Midtown and Downtown Memphis, history is largely respected and preserved. There is a resurgence in restoring buildings and landmarks to their original splendor and keeping development in its place. Gentrification has its drawbacks, and these are roundly and understandably debated by those who are affected, but when it comes to appreciation of the past, most Memphians (a term that auto-correct is insisting doesn't exist) are in agreement. Midtown is known for it's gorgeous historical district and there are scads of businesses and residences that have remained largely the same since Hector was a Pup, that is, for generations. Street signs are allowed to deteriorate but not fall apart, signage is left in its peeling, faded state...but usually cleaned and maintained. Some of the reflective glass is still visible in the oldest buildings, which still boast intricate Art Deco design. The trees are enormous, and sometimes dangerous in storms, but respected for their age and allowed to grow old gracefully. They stand surrounded by beautiful flowering children in the form of crepe myrtles and lilac trees, some of which barely reach the knees of their stately elders. New construction exists, but must meet strict guidelines that will keep with the flow of the surrounding historical buildings. It gives me such a kick to be able to send my kids to a school that doesn't blend in with the low-lying, windowless cement buildings that are common in the rest of the country. Give me a mossy wall and peeling paint any old day.

2. LEGENDARY MUSIC

I admit to sometimes be puzzled by the lack of attendance at local shows, when it comes to touring acts. But that said, the city is militantly defensive of its own musical history, of its contribution in that regard, and passionate about the local flavor. The summer's yearly concerts at the Shell, in Overton Park, are widely attended and local acts still get the warmest reception. Although I do hope that Memphis goes the way of Nashville and eventually gets its act together when it comes to supporting and promoting traveling bands, I have to concede to the fact that we will always embrace what is our own...sometimes to a fault. Museums for Stax and Sun Studios show only a taste of what we have to our credit. Graceland only skims the surface.

3. FOOD, FOOD, AND BEER:

From the time I walk out my door to the time I come home in the evening, delicious smells fill the air. Generation after generation of local chefs continue to crank out barbecue, greens, fried chicken, and even organic vegan cuisine that rivals the best in the world. And the local smorgasbord is by no means limited to West Tennessee's classics, but also blended with cultures and flavors from all over the globe. Kwik Check deli, a local favorite, serves standard deli fare with a Korean twist. OSHI Burger, downtown's Asian Fusion diner, offers burgers and alcoholic milk shakes that rival anything I've ever tasted. La Michoacana is a Mexan owned and operated ice cream shop, boasting purely unique and fully decadent flavors that keep it bursting with patrons on almost every day of the week.

Local southern cooking is not to be overlooked, however. Payne's and Roxie's Grocery are located in parts of Memphis that most people would feel they need to avoid, but they'd be missing out on some of the best barbecue and burgers in town. Central Barbecue and The Rendezvous are world famous for a reason. The food trucks are becoming legendary as well, one of which specializes only in grilled cheese. Let's just say, there is something to be said for reputations.

Speaking of local favorites, I can't finish this entry without mentioning the breweries of Memphis as well. Memphis Made, Wiseacre, and others have made a name for themselves and rightly so. Some of my favorite beers were brewed here, crafted using local ingredients, contributing to the South with all its heart and soul in one of the best ways possible. But I'll admit to being biased...after all, that Memphis Artesian well water has to have some bearing on the taste.

4. A REGARD FOR CULTURE

In spite of its gritty notoriety, Memphis has held its own when it comes to the arts. Museums, art walks, art schools, centers for the performing arts, festivals dedicated to the creativity of its citizens...these are things that, not only exist, but abound. Coffee shops showcase the art of Memphis on their walls, murals are plentiful and encouraged. Film-Makers and performers don't just stop in our city as they move on to greater things; they call it their home, grow roots, and help it develop. Some of the best productions I've seen have been the local ones, even though Memphis also takes pride in it's grand theater, the Orpheum, and theater touring groups are warmly received.

All in all, I feel very proud to live here and to be exposing my children to what the city of my birth has to offer. They are not shielded from the negatives, and yes, there are negatives that require caution. But I can honestly say that my feelings about Memphis are definitely not simply based on a necessary adaptation to my surroundings. I am happy to help build it up in the minds of those who would tear it down and I will continue to call it my truest 'home'.

Home Sweet Home...and all that jive.

↧

Diamonds and Dames Does: Kate Nesbitt

August 13, 2015, 9:13 am

≫ Next: The Starlet Series Episode 2~1921

≪ Previous: Things to Love About Memphis

I am enjoying blogging again...both reading and writing them. It's sort of a 'back to basics' thing that I can't help but embrace in the light of all the mayhem on Instagram and Facebook these days. I mean, is it just me, or are people getting to be especially sensitive and quick to offend? Enough about that though...

Last week, I posted a 'pre-haircut' video, showcasing a hair tutorial that I received a request for all the way back in 2009!! Can you all believe how long my channel has been going? (Speaking of the haircut, I still need to do a blog entry about that too!)

Anyway, this installment of Diamonds and Dames was dedicated to the lovely platinum locks of Rachel McAdams in 2007's Married Life. The style is one I've wanted to do for a while but in playing around with it, I discovered that I really didn't enjoy the look of it when I set my hair in a heated option. Something about that side curl was laying too flat or something. So I chose instead to make it a 2nd day style, using the remains of a foam roller set that had initially been quite a tight curl.

A little about the movie:

Married Life (2007)

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The story involves a love triangle between Harry Allen (Chris Cooper), Richard Langley (Pierce Brosnan), and Kay Nesbitt (Rachel McAdams) and is modeled after 1940's film noir in the setting, the styling, and the way it plays out. Harry is a gentle man in a loveless marriage, who can't help but be swept away by the stunning Kay. Rather than subject his wife, Pat (played by Patricia Clarkson), to a humiliating divorce, he begins to toy with the idea of murdering her instead, and confesses his plans to his friend Richard in hopes of obtaining some worldly advice. Richard seeks out Kay to confirm whether or not she might actually be worth such a sacrifice and ends up falling for her himself, which of course leads to even more conspiring and plotting. For all intents and purposes, the movie mostly succeeds, mainly due to the professionalism of its cast and the general look of the piece. The direction by Ira Sachs lacks passion, but remains poised and interesting. I saw this years ago on television and honestly remember very little about it, other than McAdams' exquisite loveliness. Therefore, by way of review, I'd say that is a very pretty movie, if not especially memorable. Cooper and Clarkson are always standout, in almost everything they grace, but I do recall being pleasantly surprised by McAdams and how easily she slipped into this traditionally stoic sort of femme fatale, when compared to the very modernized 1940's girl she played in The Notebook.

My Rating: 6/10
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The Tutorial:

For this episode of Diamonds and Dames, I decided to take a little different approach by recreating the style in a more traditional 1940's way. The film being modern, a heated set seems to have been used in the hairstyles Rachel McAdams sports, much like her styles in The Notebook. Her hair was a platinum blonde for this one though , and naturally the curl seems to be more pronounced. If you didn't know, Platinum hair is supremely easy to style since the lightening process makes it more malleable.

The style I enjoyed the most, in the picture, was the one Kay sports in the diner/bar/whatever-sort-of-establishment-that-was when she meets up with Richard. The sides are swept back into simple pin curls (not really full victory rolls), and the top is simply styled.

I also really enjoyed the simple waves of the following look:

Therefore, the style I created in my tutorial is based on both and would be considered an 'asymmetrical' style of the 1940's. While hot rollers were probably used for the hair in the movie, and could undoubtedly be used for this one as well, I actually created my look with 2nd day foam roller set. The foam roller setting can be seen in my last Pin Up hairstyle for Youtube, inspired by Gil Elvgren. To preserve the curls from this pretty tight set, simply wrap them in a hair net at night and sleep gently. Or, if you're a tossy-turny type of person and you tend to sweat at night, wrap the dry curls up into large pin curls and then cover them up with a net or scarf before bed. In the morning you'll have a softer, wavier version of your initial set, even if you have stick straight and fine hair like me!

For this look, the technique is fairly basic and can be seen clearly in the tutorial. Of note would be the slightly different way of constructing the side pin curl since our natural tendency is to part the hair farther back and form a full victory roll. For this look, only a slim section is used, and the pin curl is placed over the TOP of the smoothed side hair, which creates a very different aesthetic.

Three cheers for Rachel's hair stylist for the film, FRANCESCA PARIS.

Enjoy the video, and let me know, as always, if you have any additional questions Dearies!

XXOO
Ashley

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The Starlet Series Episode 2~1921

September 28, 2015, 3:50 pm

≫ Next: Temptation Tuesday: The Top 5 Items On My Winter (Vintage) Wishlist

≪ Previous: Diamonds and Dames Does: Kate Nesbitt

For those of you who didn't know, I am pursuing a project right now that involves quite a little bit of leg-work...creating a hair/makeup tutorial inspired by each year of cinema, starting with 1920. The first installment of this series is discussed in detail back in my November Post featuring that video. 1920's re-creation was dark and dramatic, inspired by the first horror film (debatably), The Cabinet of Dr Caligari. This one was no less daunting however, since it was inspired by another signature look of the decade.

1921 saw the monumental success of one of the world's first 'epic' films, Orphans of the Storm, starring the beautiful and precocious Gish sisters. The wan, almost feline face of Lillian Gish was especially appealing to me as was the dramatic makeup application that captured the youthful determination of the girls. The hair was another integral look of the decade, long untamed locks that hung in sausage-like ringlets at the ends.

About the Film:

Orphans of the Storm is set during the onset of the French Revolution, and plays out in a sweeping scale over the course of almost two and a half hours. Lillian and Dorothy play Henriette and Louise respectively, sisters who are suddenly orphaned and left to fend for themselves in a small village outside of Paris. Although they bear a striking resemblance, Louise is actually a child of the aristocratic class, who was abandoned by her mother during infancy. The sisters are as close as any fleshly sisters could be and depend on one another entirely, especially since Louise is blind.

Upon hearing that there may be a doctor in Paris who can possibly cure this affliction, Henriette and Louise journey to the city, where they are immediately taken advantage of and separated amidst the eruption of the Revolution. Henriette befriends a young man of the aristocracy, Chevalier de Vaudrey, who becomes infatuated with her and promises that he will help her find Louise no matter the cost.

As the world literally burns around them, the two sisters must decide whom they can trust and pray for salvation from the chaos that follows.
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D.W. Griffith directed this movie with the same unique style that served him throughout his career. It's bold and daring...epic in every sense of the word. The sets are enormous and beautifully detailed, the costuming is elaborate, and the cast is huge. While some films of this kind, especially during the silent era, have a tendency to be long-winded and difficult to follow, Orphans does not fail in this regard. The title cards are placed frequently throughout the film, where needed, but not so often that they break up the flow of the moving story. He also capitalizes flawlessly on the popularity of Lillian at this time, giving her the largest, meatiest role. On multiple occasions, the camera zooms into her beautiful face and takes full advantage of the gift she had for conveying emotion with a look or a slight tilt of her coquettish mouth.

Orphans of the Storm should definitely be seen by any who have a love for the epic period-piece since almost all films of this genre were inspired by it.

My Rating: 9/10

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The Tutorial:

At the ripe old age of 40, I'll admit it was a bit difficult to capture the childish beauty of the Gish sisters, but hopefully the tutorial proves to helpful for all ages.

The secret of the look is the feline look of the eyes, while still keeping the lips distinctively small and the skin fresh. 'Fresh' is relative in this case, of course, since the look of the day was obviously on the pallid side. But that said, there is a youthfulness that is important to the aesthetic of this style, so starting with an illuminating and moisturizing base was important in the makeup application. For the hair, I utilized the 'Tressmerize' extensions again, pre-rolling them in small rollers and only brushing out the tops of the sections so as to blend them into my own hair, which was also rolled in small rollers and released carefully to preserve the locks. When styling the hair, please refer to the technique in the video, which focuses on preserving the outer curls and harnessing the natural frizz at the roots.

Product Info:

For the base, I applied Clarins Instant Light Skin Perfector, which is a radiance boosting base. A full coverage foundation with a satin finish is a good option. For this one, I used Estee Lauder's Double Wear foundation, in the shade Ecru. Set with Original Dermablend Setting Powder-no substitutes here, please.

My eyeshadows were all matte, and not brand specific. Any good quality shadow can be used for this tutorial and will have a similar effect. Eyes should feature waterproof eyeliners and mascaras, however, since the application must be somewhat heavy to mimic the look of the era. However, any brand will suffice.

The same goes for lip and cheek products, which are only going to be based on color and finish at this point. A recommendation for a good deep red shade would be Julie Hewett lipstick in Sin Noir. It's a long time favorite of mine for the classic vamp lip.

The video is linked for you here...enjoy and let me know if you have further questions about the film or the look.

xxoo,
Ashley

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Temptation Tuesday: The Top 5 Items On My Winter (Vintage) Wishlist

January 5, 2016, 11:21 am

≫ Next: Classic Cats

≪ Previous: The Starlet Series Episode 2~1921

Now that winter has officially set in, here in the Southern US, I find myself faced with the very real fact that I need some warm items. Although adding a pretty cardigan and a snazzy pair of tights to a summer ensemble sometimes works well to accommodate the season, lows in the sometimes-20's do require a little more thought. Below are the five items I've had on my wish list for some time, that I finally feel I need to make a concerted effort to obtain. The interesting thing about these items, is that although they're meant to be worn as an outer layer, they very much feel like an elegant ensemble. It's like you are sporting two outfits: one underneath, and one on top. And hey, let's face it, that's fun stuff.

So without further ado, here are the items at the top of my list:

1. A Princess Coat.

Princess coats are fitted and usually long. The 'skirt' of the coat can be either a-line or quite full. They work beautifully over full skirts and lots of layers, but they still nip in the waist, sort of like a belted trench without the belt. Although new ones can be obtained, I still find the best ones to be had are vintage. You can find them quite often in local vintage or thrift shops, and sometimes the fit might be off but an alteration would be well worth the expense. Many times, especially in warmer climates, they were in someone's attic, largely unused, and still in excellent condition. They're usually extraordinarily warm, made of wool, and lined. The lining can be replaced if it's in bad shape.

The coat below is currently available on Etsy, at a hefty price, but I'd wager you can find a similar one at your local shops or estate sales and the seller might not know what they have. I've seen them as low at 15.00!

2. Beautiful Mary-Poppins-ish Boots.

I detest Uggs. I profane of Frye. And I'm bored to tears with riding boots, possibly because I work at a department store where these are all the rage. That said, I surely wished I'd had a pair of boots yesterday when I had to walk in 30 degree temperatures through the streets of an impossibly windy downtown Memphis. And I remembered these from my list of a few years ago. They're discontinued I believe, but they are still available in some places. And this is the style I love to see with a vintage coat or trench. In my opinion, Miss L Fire still carries the prettiest boots, but similar styles can be found elsewhere. The style below is currently offered at a cut rate here.

3. A Plethora of Patterned Tights.

I collect tights, I guess you could say. I have virtually every solid color, thick black fishnets, nude fishnets, argyle, plaid, floral, and striped options. The ones I get the most compliments on are graphic florals. Usually a two toned, somewhat abstract floral pattern, is the most eye-catching. And they add some girth to thin legs so it's a win-win. Sock Dreams has some amazing offerings, so make sure to check them out. Also, department stores have sweater tights and regular microfiber ones at slashed rates after the 1st of January!

4. Felted Wool Hat.

I noticed that cloche style wool hats were on trend this year, in a big way. Make sure to check your local department store for sale items because these can keep your vintage style alive even on the coldest days. If you prefer more of a brimmed hat, Etsy has lots of great milliners who will be happy to oblige. This one stood out to me as a great style for long or bobbed hair particularly.

5. Pretty Gloves.

I have always been the one who gets those cheap-o one-size-fits-all dealios from Wal Mart, and immediately regrets this when it's wet or super cold since they do next to nothing to keep your hands warm in such situations. I did this because I lose gloves so often and was hesitant to spend more than a couple of bucks for them. I have noticed though that when I invest a bit more in a better quality pair, I tend to hold onto them a little tighter. Who'd-a thunk? So find you a pair of pretty gloves that compliment or match your coat and feature fur lined cuffs, bows, or pretty buttons. You'll feel better about hiding your hands! And hey, these have a text-tab too, so you won't have to remove them to play on your phone.

So what are your winter-wishlist items? Share with me! And I hope your 2016 is off to a great start!

XXOO
Ashley

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Classic Cats

January 7, 2016, 6:50 am

≫ Next: Pixie Grow Out- Six Months

≪ Previous: Temptation Tuesday: The Top 5 Items On My Winter (Vintage) Wishlist

It's amazing how many great photos you can find of Old Hollywood fellas and their cats. I mean, seriously...google 'actors with cats' and you'll be shocked at the number of swoony photos there are of our favorite actors snuggling their favorite feline. Here are ten of the best...Oh, and by the way, notice how many seem to prefer the Siamese variety...must have been a trend at the time.

1. Stan Laurel

2. James Dean (I believe his kitty was named Marcus.)

3.James Mason (There is also another one where he's in bed snuggling an award and two white persian cats. It's highly decadent.)

4. Paul Newman

5. Anthony Perkins (although, cats on the table are forbidden in our house)

7. Marlon Brando

8. Clark Gable

9. Raymond Burr

10. Lawrence Olivier

and Cary Grant...

Oh well, they can't all be cat lovers....

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Pixie Grow Out- Six Months

January 25, 2016, 2:31 pm

≫ Next: The Starlet Series: Episode 3-1922

≪ Previous: Classic Cats

As most of you know, last summer I decided to take the plunge and get myself a Pixie Haircut for the first time. It will probably be the last time since I am a gal who loves versatility. But I loved it and since my express purpose in getting it was to grow it out, I decided to chronicle the six months I had it, in pictures, for those of you who might like to try it but who feel that it's too big a step. It's really not, especially if, like me, you have fast-growing locks. For the heat of summer, it was absolutely perfect. And I loved all of the transitions along the way, that allowed for such a wide range of vintage looks.

So here was my hair on the day it was cut. A nice Audrey Hepburn length, that hugged my head nicely. My stylist, Robin Tucker, said my hair was pretty difficult to cut because I have some cowlicks and skull dents (yep, dents) that made it hard to get truly consistent overall. So make sure if you go for the pixie, that you have a renowned stylist. They will not typically be found at your local 'Great Clips' and they will likely cost a pretty penny. But believe me, you don't want so-so technicians giving you a drastic cut.

When I got home, I decided to give myself a little bit of wave with a flat iron. It was pretty hard to use anything but heated tools on my hair at this stage and I do hate that because my hair became much more damaged than I'm accustomed to over the course of the time it was this short.

Eventually I began to play around with styling it away from my face. A few weeks after the initial cut, the bang portion was long enough to sweep back into a single bobby pin and I enjoyed the sort of chic change.

By August, pin curls were more easily accomplished. I focused only on setting the top hair, using a flat iron or small curling iron to slightly curve the back. I showcased this style in a video, which was part one of my Pixie Grow Out series on Youtube.

Next, I featured a roller set, after a few more weeks had passed. The look is entirely different and ended up being a fun favorite as well. By this point, the hair over my ears was becoming something of a 'beginner bob'.

Around this time, I decided to go red again...possibly because the blonde hair at the length it was made me feel a bit like my mom. Not that I don't think she's beautiful; I just began to really miss my red hair. My first style with the red hair was pin curled waves.

I also began to play a little with a center part, as my bangs grew long enough to give this a go. I enjoyed it a lot, especially with a feminine hair flower. Keep in mind that as of this point, the only cutting that I'd allowed to my hair was a little trim to keep the nape hairs from becoming a bit too 'mullet-y'.

I decided to tackle the pin curl finger waves for a video at this point. The hair had grown quite a bit and I really prefer this look to a traditional water wave because straight hair tends to take to it better.

Headbands become a very handy accessory at this grow-out stage, as the bangs become too long to style without setting.

So that brings us to the bob. And I decided I missed my bangs so I went for that too. I really am enjoying the Louise Brooks thing going on here.

Anyway, that's a six month grow-out for you. It was surprisingly easy and a really fun challenge! I look forward to doing more videos for you as it continues to grow and please let me know if you have questions or concerns about taking the plunge yourself!!

xoxo,
Ashley

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