Heels: Are They As Bad For Your Feet As We Think?

Dancing the night away in a pair of sky-scraping shoes is definitely good for the mood, but there's no denying that it will leaves your feet sore and stiff, if you can feel them at all. Hobbling around for a day is one thing, but are we doing long-term damage?

Podiatrists frequently remind women that the foot is not designed to walk in heels. Grizzly-sounding side-effects range from corns building up on the ball of the foot where all the pressure falls, to tightening in the Achilles tendon and, in severe cases, cracks in the foot bones.

Many celebrities have found out the hard way what heel-wearing does to your feet. After years of strutting her stuff in towering shoes, Victoria Beckham underwent surgery to remove a bunion in 2009, a procedure that takes six to eight weeks to recover from. Earlier this year, Carol Vorderman fell down the stairs when running in a pair of stilettos, leaving her with a broken nose.  

Despite these risks, most women faced with a big day at work or a glam night out will still choose to wear heels. Fortunately, you don’t need to cut them out entirely to prevent injury. Aside from the obvious point of lowering the height, another tip to reduce damage to your feet is to wear a thicker heel, since the skinnier the style, the less support your ankle gets. A thicker heel also makes it less likely that you’ll take a tumble or slip sideways, which could mean a sprained or even broken ankle.  

If you can't bear the thought of bidding goodbye to your stilettos, find a compromise. Cut down on the amount of time spent in skyscrapers by wearing flat shoes for part of the day. This is definitely a must in winter, when rain, frost and snow increase the risk of slipping. Sensible doesn't have to mean boring, and a pair from this  collection of flat boots will keep your feet chic, warm and safe.

BOGO at MiniLuxe

As you all know, I love my nail polish. I own every different color of the rainbow but am always seeking new lines and shades. That's why when I heard about the fabulous sale going on at MiniLuxe right now, I HAD to have their new shade, Luxe Lynnfield.

From now until the end of September – all of MiniLuxe’s own LUXE nail polish is buy one, get one free! Pick up all your favorite colors for the fall!

Prices: $8 regular / $4 minis

BOGO available at all MiniLuxe locations.

Boston Terrier Love

As some of you know I am Mom to two amazing Boston Terriers  named Scout and Lulu. They are the joy in my life and some pretty cool stuff is created around their breed. 

I just picked up this fab Marc Jacobs case for my Samsung Galaxy. Not only does it protect my phone better than a lot of cases I've tried, it makes quite the statement.  Everywhere I go, someone asks about this little guy.

I spotted these flats in People StyleWatch from Kohl's and will be adding them to my collection. How cute are they?! Personally, I don't think you can ever have too many flats. Plus, they're on sale.

This ring has been on my mind for a while. Verameat has amazing baubles but of course I have an affinity for this copper masterpiece ($140).

Wicked Peacock's New Shop

If anything, the trip to Rockport, MA is not only worth it because of the beauty in this town but mainly because it is where Wicked Peacock has just set up shop. My faaaaavorite jewels around, Silvana Costa, has created a sanctuary of hard to find, fabulous pieces. Let me tell you, it took me an hour to limit what I was going to buy. The shop itself is insanely cute and very well decorated as if you are in jewelry heaven. Peacocks are Silvana's signature and can be seen floating around the store in various, expressive ways.

The "meow" ring was a definite piece for my collection. I just love how unique and adorable it is.

This necklace says statement all the way and can dress up any T and jeans. I had to have it and at $24, it was a steal!

Go see for yourself and enjoy the last moments of Summer in this quaint town!

Journelle: Luxury Lingerie

Last week, I attended the Journelle Lingerie event at the fabulous Emerald Lounge.  Journelle is one of NYC's premiere lingerie retailers and I could see why. They decided to hit the road and show Boston what they are all about. Champagne and lovely bites were served as I scoured through the adorable bus they rolled up in, outfitted with 21 feet of lingerie.  Journelle's team is working hard to spread their motto that every day is the perfect day to immerse yourself in luxury. 

Worst Celebrity Fashion Faux Pas

Being on trend isn’t always easy. No matter how many fashion week updates you read or blogs you subscribe to, we can still confuse daring with deranged and commit the dreaded fashion faux pas. Thankfully, these mistakes don’t just happen to mere mortals. Even celebrities, with oodles of cash and experienced stylists at their fingertips, have fallen victim to the fashion nightmare on more than one occasion. If you're reeling from a recent misjudgment, take comfort from this list of worst celebrity faux pas. 

Emma Watson

Our Heroine is no stranger to high fashion, having modeled for Burberry, but unfortunately she also has a string of errors to her name. One of the worst was a tailored trousers and mini dress combo, which Emma wore to the London premiere of The Perks of Being a Wallflower. The saddest thing was that the dress was Christian Dior and would have looked stunning on its own. Emma, what were you thinking?

Kristen Stewart

Ladies, take note: no matter how much pride you take in buying beautiful bras, getting them out in public is rarely a good idea. K-Stew's style may be unique, but it's hard to believe she looked in the mirror before heading to the New York premiere of On the Road. Everything about this outfit is wrong: from the embellished, transparent skirt-over-shorts idea to the neon orange shade of her Louboutins.

Jennifer Aniston

As well as winning the 2013 People’s Choice Award for Favourite Comedic Movie Actress, poor Jen also topped the Worst Dressed lists in her leather Dior skater dress. Even the fact that leather was supposedly enjoying a fashion revival couldn't help this dress, with the outfit being described as “awkward” by Examiner.com while gossip blog Digital Spy speculated that the actress was covering a baby bump in the “unflattering” ensemble.

Kelly Osbourne

Kelly proves that fashion faux pas really can happen to anyone, even E! Fashion Police judges. Her successful run on the red carpets came to an abrupt end with the bizarre dress she wore to last year’s Golden Globes. The Daily Mail pointed out that the petite star looked swamped by the high neckline and expansively long skirt. That plus the three quarter length boxy sleeves made this one all a little too Lady Gaga - never a good look. 

July's Favorite Things

It's been awhile since I have posted but I am finally back in action and totally excited about it! For my first post back, I have decided to post a few of my favorite things this month. These have become my staples lately and I wanted to share with all you. I hope everyone had an AMAZING 4th of July! xx

I am the kind of girl who feels naked without my rings These two have become my favorite combo. 

I bought this little leather Rebecca Minkoff coin purse at the Gilt Sale a couple years back. I suddenly rediscovered it and keep all that extra change we get in there. It also fits my T-pass which I was constantly losing. I love the red. It's unique. 

My amazing friend gave me this after I kept admiring it on her wrist. She had two and tricked me into borrowing this, knowing I am probably not giving it back! An evil eye always makes me feel a bit more lucky.

I bought these on yet another Gilt sale. They are so light yet make such a statement. I think they are very rare looking; almost vintage.

All sunglasses do not have to be designer. These adorable, heart-shaped sunnies are perfect for the warm weather, especially when you want to have some fun!

Bling Bling

I have an amazing sale for you guys this Memorial Day weekend. It's from JoJo Loves You. Their amazing Bling earrings come in a variety of gorgeous stones and shapes. They are handmade in Brighton, Ma and will make you want to find a party and shine. Get three pairs for $60 which include the Blings, Party Blings, Mini Party Blings, Navette Blings, and Oval Blings. Get three Mini Blings for $50. 

I chose the yellow Party Blings and am already wearing them all the time. They go perfectly with any outfit. Hurry before the sale ends!

Be Styled Giveaway

Who doesn't love a fabulous blow out? I know I do. Be Styled is the new, hip blow out salon that just opened in Chesnut Hill. Let me tell you, it is amazing. Choose from a variety of styles, relax, and enjoy.

The Creative Director behind Be Styled is Nicholas Penna Jr. who is known locally and internationally. I have had the pleasure of him styling my locks and he is a master. Find him at SalonCapri. Every blow dry stylist receives exemplary industry training from
Nick Penna Jr. and his team.

The ambiance is that of pure relaxation. Come sip bubbly, cappuccinos, and nibble on some delicious treats. View examples of each style on hair models and find what fits you.

Be Styled and BostonStylista are giving away three chairs on May 22nd at 6:45pm. 

TO ENTER: Like Be Styled on Facebook and leave a comment on what style you would choose. Styles include: be sleek, be swanky, be swirly, and be soft. Take a look here: http://bestyled.com/pretty-pics

Winners will be announced on May 19th!

Be Styled
The Street | Chestnut Hill

49 Boylston Street, Suite 4920

Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

Tried and Tested: Hourglass Immaculate Foundation

I am always one for testing out new beauty products and have been scouting a new foundation. So, when Hourglass Immaculate Foundation landed on my doorstep, I was more than overjoyed. My face tends to get a bit oily during the day and the Immaculate has mattifying ingredients that absorb oil, mask any imperfections and truly lasts ALL day. I don't even need my powder compact anymore. Not only that, but it is so smooth going on and looks super natural. If you're in the market, check this out. You will thank me!

Trend: Long Nails

Have you guys noticed the new trend being sported all over Hollywood and the runways? Long, oval nails are back with a bang in all different colors ranging from classic nude to crazy patterns. Personally, I have been trying the trend but I am not sure how I feel about it. Let's just say it is a lot of upkeep. What do you guys think?

 

Clarins Must Haves

Clarins held a special event for us bloggers as part of the launch of their new Double Serum. Boy, did I learn a great deal of information about skin care. Did you know you are supposed to use an anti-aging cream by the age of 25? Also, you are supposed to pat your skin creams and serums on instead of rubbing them in. Apparently, rubbing stretches the skin, causing wrinkles. Celebrity skin care specialist, Jean Fayard, was on hand to personally show us the "must haves" and "must dos" for glowing, radiant skin.

So this Double Serum is apparently "Ah-mazing!" I personally obtained a bottle and am already feeling softer, more radiant skin. It is powered by 20 pure plant extracts and molecules. It reactivates the 5 vital functions on which skin's youth and beauty depend. I have been using it for a week and am already seeing results! In four, I should see the full results.

Jean pulled out the new "it" colors in the Rouge Eclat lipsticks this season. My personal favorite is Juicy Clementine as shown. BB Cream is huge right now and another key essential in Clarin's "must haves". I love the color it brings to my skin, hiding any imperfections. It also keeps my skin very matte which I love.

There you have it. Double Serum + BB Cream + a bright lip=  A Glowing, Radiant Face

Powered by 20 pure plant extracts and potent, high-tech molecules—Double Serum’s innovative, dual chamber system combines two age-defying formulas into one groundbreaking serum that reactivates skin’s vital functions. So in just four weeks, skin is firmer, wrinkles are reduced, and pores are more refined. />See why 90% of women find it more effective than their current serum. Clarins also pulled out their amazing new lipstick colors perfect for Spring. Mt favorite, Juicy Clementine. Another beauty essential I am adding to my routine is their BB cream. - See more at: http://www.clarinsusa.com/Double-Serum/C010408020,en_US,pd.html?cm_mmc=Google-_-New%20Clarins%20Face-_-Brand%20Serum-_-double%20serum%20clarins#sthash.SuB7KtQ1.dpuf

Gusto-O

I attended the Gusto-O Blow Dry Bar event last Wednesday and was completely smitten. This little salon is absolutely adorable with it's bright orange and pink decor including luxurious black leather chairs. I had my hair done with a glass of pink champagne in hand and was shocked by the technique. I had the Siren as it is called which are long, loose curls and the stylist actually curled my hair just using brushes. She would dry my hair while twirling the brush around and actually leaving it in like rollers for a few minutes. Needless to say, I was all glammed up.

The salon offers my two favorite lines, Living Proof and Oribe. I met owner, Kacey Pohlad, who was super sweet and happy to chat Gusto-O. After some Georgetown cupcakes and my new do, I was on my way to a fabulous night!

Boston
617.927.5451

Boston
617.927.5451

In January of 2012, Kacey Pohlad and Betsy Hawn left their careers to enthusiastically start the entrepreneurial adventure known as Gust-o. Together they recognized the market opportunities in both the East Coast hub of Boston and Midwest metro of Minneapolis, where the two live respectively. With distinct professional backgrounds, Kacey and Betsy jointly shared the same passion and vision of providing women with a unique salon experience that is time efficient, luxurious and stylish. - See more at: http://gust-o.com/what-is-gust-o/#sthash.UeqliFnJ.dpuf

Statement Earrings

Lately, I have been loving simple statement earrings. Suitable for everyday, they are the perfect addition to any outfit. Without being too overbearing  these statement earrings really pack a punch. Try pairing them with a simple T or take them out with your favorite LBD!

Top: Doloris Petunia; Left: Camilla James; Right: M.Flynn Accessories

All available at M.Flynn Accessories

Tomasz Plodowski Gems

I had such an enormous response the last time I posted about the talented jeweler Mr. Tomasz Plodowski. His rings are insanely different and incomparably unique. His work is timeless and nowhere will you find construction like this. Created in Poland, his collection consists of handmade modern jewelry inspired from a fascination with architecture and art. "My designs go against what has been considered canon in this industry so far, and our customers have absolutely supported this fresh look at jewelry." says Plodowski.      

The first two rings I received from the collection have been adored by many. Numerous emails came in on where my readers could find them. So, another post was born to show you my very new Plodowski ring!                                                                                            

Find them at www.t.plodowski.com 

Event: Third Piece Trunk Show

On February 7th, join Third Piece and their amazing designer knit accessories at the The Bar Method. See the new collection, have some wine, and try out a The Bar Method class! With the weather so chilling, this is the opportunity to get in style with some warm accessories.

*Also, The Bar Method launches their new client special for February, where new clients will get two weeks of unlimited classes free if they sign up and take their first class this month!

Style Inspiration: Gwen Stefani

Everyone knows I am a huge Gwen Stefani fan. I have adored her glam style since I was in eighth grade. Can you even believe she is 43 now? No matter what she is wearing, she manages to make it look just plain cool. She is a master at mixes prints and breaking rules. The queen of the red lip rocks a platinum do like no other. Here are a few of my favorite Gwen looks from 2013.

Who would think to mix camouflage pants with this printed sweater? Somehow it is effortless and chic.

Her spin on the classic topknot is super in style.

My favorite VOGUE covergirl.

Adding hints of blue throughout her outfit adds an unexpected touch.

This polka dot sweater is a simple way to make any outfit pop.

This is just amazing and really shows off Gwen's different style.