Word of the Week: Redolent

The word of the week (my birthday week!) for January 30th through February 5th is...

Redolent
adj.

Definition:
1. Serving to bring to mind; evocative
2. Exuding fragrance; aromatic.

Example:
When she smelled the redolent bottle of perfume, she was instantly taken back to the time in her life when she wore the fragrance most frequently.











Now Playing: "Pigeons" by The Hundred in the Hands

Best Dressed: 2012 SAG Awards

Rose Byrne looked unbelievable in a chic Elie Saab jumpsuit. I thought she resembled a young Anna Wintour/Julianne Moore. This is one of my favorite red carpet looks in recent memory. She took a risk and totally nailed it!



Elizabeth Chambers looked effortlessly elegant in a cream gown by Gucci.

Also in white, a newly engaged Katrina Bowden looked beautiful in Amsale.

Now Playing: "Sway" by The Kooks

Chic & Thrifty: Chanel Spring 2012 Nail Polish for Less!

TOP ROW: Chanel Spring 2012 Collection. April, May, June ($25).

BOTTOM ROW: Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Wonder, Sinful Colors Pink Forever, Revlon Peach Nectar (< $5).

It has been so long since I posted a Chic & Thrifty blog that I forgot what I called the series. I was inspired to share some affordable alternatives to Chanel's Spring nail polish collection. I found these options within my own stash. I think it's important to know what you have before investing in something that is practically identical. These colors aren't exactly "dupes" (albeit April looks close enough to me) but they are amazing alternatives. I love Chanel just as much if not more than the next girl but I can attest that its formula is not superior to the products I have mentioned. Chanel polishes are $25 USD whereas my alternatives were all under $5. I picked up both the Sally Hansen and Revlon polishes at Big Lots for a buck or two. At the drug store they would run around $4-5. Sinful Colors can also be found at the drug store for $1.99. It's a great option if you're looking to have a large collection and various options without having to spend a lot of money. I really encourage every girl to know what she has and to research the market before investing in something that could be duped for less. There are plenty of resources online and great websites to familiarize yourself with. Two of my favorite nail polish sites that include a wide variety of information on collection releases, swatches and more:

All Laquered Up

The Polish Aholic



Now Playing: "Sunday Morning" by Maroon 5

Turning Page

I heard this song for the first time this evening. I haven't seen the newest Twilight movie, so if there are any Twihards out there, this song is so 2011 for you. But I thought it was a beautiful piece of music and wanted to share. The lyrics read like poetry. You know, there's something to be said for a good love song. Every girl wants one written for her. Take note, gentleman: I've had a few guys write me poems and it's something I'll never forget.




"Turning Page" by Sleeping At Last

I’ve waited a hundred years.
But I’d wait a million more for you.
Nothing prepared me for
What the privilege of being yours would do.

If I had only felt the warmth within your touch,
If I had only seen how you smile when you blush,
Or how you curl your lip when you concentrate enough,
I would have known what I was living for all along.
What I’ve been living for.

Your love is my turning page,
Where only the sweetest words remain.
Every kiss is a cursive line,
Every touch is a redefining phrase.

I surrender who I’ve been for who you are,
For nothing makes me stronger than your fragile heart.
If I had only felt how it feels to be yours,
Well, I would have known what I’ve been living for all along.
What I’ve been living for.

Though we’re tethered to the story we must tell,
When I saw you, well, I knew we’d tell it well.
With a whisper, we will tame the vicious seas.
Like a feather bringing kingdoms to their knees.

Luxe Living: California's Villa Montana

Pittsburgh-area native, Joe Montana's California Wine Country estate has recently dropped $14 million-dollars in its asking price. Hurry now (dare to dream)! The gorgeous property boasts over 500 acres of land in Sonoma County, contains nearly 10,000 sq. ft. of living space, an equestrian stable, guest house, wine cellar, basketball court, spa and so much more. I guess it wouldn't suck to live there, right?

I think Villa Montana is absolutely spectacular. I love its architectural style and breathtaking locale. It's definitely one of the most beautiful homes I've seen.












Now Playing: "Policy of Truth" by Depeche Mode