Made in America Monday: Jane Iredale Cosmetics

Prior to LuckyFABB, I had never even heard of Jane Iredale cosmetics.  Now I'm wondering what else I'm missing out on...

I was so impressed with the brand's event at the Refinery Hotel, loved all of the products I was gifted, and was thrilled to find out that they are made in the USA!  It's like the trifecta of fabulous-ness!

At the event, cocktails were flowing, butler-passed hors d'oeuvres were abundant, and makeup artists were working their magic.

 All attendees were treated to "lip makeovers" and I got done up with Captivating Crimson:

I went home with all of the products used to create this look and get complimented every time I wear them.  It is the perfect shade of red and I know I'll be wearing it a lot this holiday season.

Think you should rock these bold lips at all of your upcoming holiday parties?  (So do I!) 

Here is how to get the look:

1.  Exfoliate your lips with Sugar&Butter to remove any dead or flaking skin and provide a smooth surface for application.
2.  Blot to remove any remaining sugar crystals.
3.  Using Crimson Lip Definer, outline and fill in your entire upper and lower lip.
4.  Layer Margi Puremoist Lipstick over the pencil.
5.  Finish by applying Crabapple PureGloss Lip Gloss to the center of your lower lip.

Voila!  You too, can look like me and have fabulous holiday-ready lips thanks to Jane Iredale!

In other news, Sugar&Butter (an exfoliator and lip plumper) is hands down my favorite new beauty product I've tried this year and their Mystikol (eyeliner and highlighter combo) in onyx is a close second - so good for creating the perfect smokey eye. 

Dying to give Jane Iredale a try?  I have good news: you can order all of their products online!  And for my #shoplocal gals: Jane Iredale Cosmetics are available at Pharoah's Hairum (both locations), Conscious Beauty in Victor, Salon Enza in Penfield, Q Med Spa in Rochester, and Genesee Valley Laser Center.

As you embark on your holiday shopping this year keep in mind you make a difference every time you shop local and buy American - so why not make a point to do both?

Happy Shopping!

xoxo

Jenny

#YelpShopsRoc and You Should Too

I don't think it's any secret how I feel about shopping local and supporting small businesses. This is why I am teaming up with Yelp Rochester to promote ways for you to shop local this holiday season. Did you know that for every $100 spent at an independent retailer $58 stays local? There's no better time to put your money where your heart is and make a difference than the holidays.  Want to help?  Follow #YelpShopsROC, get out and support your great local business community, and encourage others to do the same.  It's time to spread some good old-fashioned holiday cheer.

For your convenience, a detailed list of events where you can #shoplocal in the R-O-C:

[Nov. 22-24] 43rd Annual Holiday Bazaar Arts & Crafts Sale
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Nov. 23-24] Wonderful Little Artisan Sale
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Nov. 29] Record Store Day Black Friday Event
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Nov. 30] Preparing for the Holidays the 19th Century Way
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Nov. 30] Second Storie Indie Market
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Dec. 1] 2nd Annual Holiday Shopping Party @ Veritas Wine Bar
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Dec. 5] Park Avenue Holiday Open House
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Dec. 6-7] Metro Justice's Alternative Fair
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Dec. 6-7] Anderson Alley Artists Holiday Gala
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Dec. 7] Holiday Customer Appreciation Party @ Del Monte Spa
http://www.yelp.com/even…
[Dec. 12] Annual Holiday Homecoming Celebration @ George Eastman House
http://www.yelp.com/even…

**[Dec. 14-15] Brainery Holiday Bazaar Presented by Yelp Shops Local
http://www.yelp.com/even…

** This is Yelp's flagship event and one not to be missed.  Highlights beyond shopping include free drinks from mu cocktails and Roc Brewing Co (2-5pm both days), videobooth from Paper Moon Productions (Saturday 12-2pm), gift wrapping station to benefit CPA Build, donations for Ronald McDonald House, gift basket raffles, and so much more!  This fashionista will be there for sure. 

Get out and #ShopRoc! #YelpShopsRoc #ShopLocal 

xoxo 

Jenny

The Flower City Fashionista on TV

Just in case you have an actual life and weren't stalking my blog's facebook last Friday night, I was on tv.

It started out like any other day.  Only I woke up late, didn't shower, and was then ambushed by the parazzi [read: local news] where I blathered about Pinterest, how I'm not a crafter, and got very specific about the perks of my credit card.

Since it aired,  my dad called to ask me if any modeling agencies got in touch after seeing my segment.  Not cool, Dad.  Not.  Cool.  My husband has found himself the brunt of many a your-wife-shops-so-much-they-are-interviewing-her-at-the-mall jokes.  And my friends (if you can call them that) have been sending me texts like this:

What can I say?  Yes, I like to shop.  Sure, I look a little disheveled and my voice possesses a rare nasal quality that is only found when Rochester and New Jersey accents combine, but in all honestly, it could have been much, much worse.

So now, for your viewing pleasure, WHEC Rochester catches up with The Flower City Fashionista at Eastview Mall:

The moral of the story:  never leave the house without washing your hair and never lose the ability to laugh at yourself.

Happy Friday kiddos!

xoxo

Jenny

Baby It's Cold Outside

A few weeks ago, I realized that I did not own a proper winter coat.  Let me rephrase, I did not own a proper winter coat that fit.  The only coat I did own is my first "professional" black wool Anne Klein trench that is floor length, outdated, and happens to be a size 10 (I wear a 4).  When I put it on, I look like a homeless member of the Trench Coat Mafia (not exactly the look I am going for).

In a desperate panic, and vowing not to freeze my ass off in my moto jacket and a cocktail dress ever again, I hit the mall last Friday to bite the bullet and buy a respectable [well-fitting] winter dress coat.  I narrowed it down to two options and then with the help of my fantastic instagram followers I was able to make a decision, which I do believe it was unanimous...

Which one would you have picked?

If you guessed that Tracy Reese's orange Italian wool trench was the winner, then you get a gold star.  While less dressy, I felt that it was more tailored, more fun, and overall just more me than the Ellen Tracy option.  I am still feeling the itch to invest in a super-dressy coat - maybe black?  Super classic? Gah!  I could never have enough clothes...ever.

Is it me?  Or do you always feel like there is always something you just NEED to buy?

I should have been royalty.  I doubt Kate Middleton has these problems...

Here's to hoping you marry a prince and get every coat your little heart desires, 

xoxo

Jenny

Feeling like Myself

You know when you find the perfect piece of clothing that just screams you?  You put it on and just feel like yourself.  That's how I feel about this western print swing coat I found at Forever 21. 

Outfit Details

Sunglasses:  Target (old)

Tee, Scarf, Jeans:  GAP

Necklaces:  c/o Charming Charlie

Bracelets:  Alex & Ani and Emerson & Oliver

Coat:  Forever 21 (similar) (similar)

Boots:  Aldo

 

If I were going to emulate a certain style aesthetic it would be to take the feel of this outfit and multiply it by my entire wardrobe.  It feels comfortable and authentic, on-trend without being too trendy, and just the right combination of boho-hipster meets girl-next-door.  I'm obsessed.  And now I want all of this to keep the party rolling. 

What about you?  What do you wear that just makes you feel like you?

xoxo

Jenny

 

Two for Tuesday: Watch You Talkin' Bout Willis?

See what I did there?  Watch?

What?  It's hard to come up with catchy titles day after day.  And although this post has absolutely nothing to do with Different Strokes, I couldn't resist adding this:

Anywho, let's talk about watches shall we?

I've been lucky enough to receive two awesome watches this month and wanted to share both of them with you.

1.  Timex  - This classic watch from Timex looks high end, but at a retail price of under $100, it is doable on any budget.  Worn alone, or as part of an arm party, this baby makes a great Christmas gift for any lady on your list.

Scarf and Flannel:  Old Navy

Watch:  c/o Timex

Jeans:  GAP

Earrings:  Shop Peppermint

Bracelets (left):  Alex & Ani ~ Emerson & Oliver

Bracelets (right): Stella and Dot and  c/o Charming Charlie

2.  Modify - I was introduced to this line of customizable mix and match watches at LuckyFABB and was super-excited to be gifted a watch of my choice.  I opted for the mini with a rose gold chevron face and gray strap.  I adore its sporty, casual style and love how you can change out bands and faces to "modify" your look.  So fun!

I'm still waiting on that Rolex, but for now these babies will do ;)

What about you?  Or your more of a "Cristal, Maybach, diamonds on your timepiece" kind of girl?  Or more Timex, Modify, driving Cadillacs in your dreams kind of girl?  Either way, rock out with your watch out.

I need more coffee... or less...not sure...it could go either way...

xoxo

Jenny

Made in America Monday - Kendra Phillip Giveaway

If you read this post, I'm sure you spied my gorgeous new Lindsay Cuff Bracelet from Kendra Phillip.
Let me refresh your memory:

Blazer, Lace Blouse:  Forever 21(similar) (similar)

Tank:  Old Navy

Pants:  GAP

Bag:  c/o Galian

Cuff:  c/o Kendra Phillip

Ring:  Estate piece

Bracelet:  Stella and Dot

Watch:  Michael Kors

It also made an appearance here.

Need a close up?

So pretty, right? Just wait til you see the rest of the collection!  You're going to want EVERYTHING.  (I sure do!).  I love that the company was founded by two lifelong friends, who strive to tell the story of friendship and elegance using fine metals and the highest quality workmanship in every piece they create.  I also love that the entire product line is made right here in the USA.  American-made, heartfelt, well-crafted, and beautiful... what's not to love?

How would you like the opportunity to win something from the collection?

Well, you're in luck.  I'm giving away one Kendra Phillip Tara Star Necklace in Rose Gold (a $54 value)  to one lucky winner.

Click the +1 button for further instructions on each entry. This giveaway will close at midnight on November 23. The winner will be randomly selected, verified for correct entry participation, and notified by email.

You know the drill.  Enter here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Best of luck lovelies!

xoxo

Jenny 

How to Rock Leggings Like a Boss

I get asked about leggings all the time.  Are they a do or a don't?  Can you really wear them without looking like a slob? hooker? 80s throwback?  I say, leggings are a great [super-comfortable] addition to your wardrobe as long as you follow the Fashionista Golden Rule of Leggings:  treat them how any skinny pant would want to be treated.  In other words, style them like a skinny jean and viola - you'll be rocking them like a boss in no time!

Some more legging tips and styling ideas from yours truly:

• Make sure your top gives you proper coverage.  VPL and Camel Toe were so last season.  Mid-thigh is usually a safe bet.
• Wear them with an over-sized sweater.
• Pair basic black leggings with a flannel, cardi, boot socks, and riding boots for a preppy gone comfy look. Then do an impromptu photo shoot at the Drop-in-Gym... (That last part is optional...)

 

• Don't be afraid to play with patterns, but keep your top solid.  Pattern mixing is an advanced move and not for the faint of heart.  Start slow.

• Kick back in leggings and chuck taylors.
• Try faux leather leggings for evening, but pair them with a flowy top.  You don't want to be mistaken for Cat Woman, or a dominatrix...

• Wear with dresses in lieu of tights for extra warm during the winter months.  
• No matter how you choose to wear them, just make sure they fit.  Too tight = muffin top and too loose = baggy crotch... neither are particularly attractive.
• Leave your wigwam socks at home. 

That's all folks.  Have a great weekend and wear those leggings with pride! 

xoxo

Jenny

Blazer a New Trail

I'm not a blazer girl.  I have girlfriends with closets full of them, but I'd much rather just throw on my moto jacket.  However, in an effort to look a little more profesh at Lucky FABB, I bought myself my first (in a loooong time) blazer at Forever 21.  While I didn't end up wearing at the conference, I did pull it out last week for a Girl's Night Out Event at Cornell's Jewellers. 

Here is how I styled it (apologies for the crappy photos):

 Outfit Details:

Glasses:  Coach (similar)

Blazer, Lace Blouse:  Forever 21(similar) (similar)

Tank:  Old Navy

Pants:  GAP

Shoes:  Target (old)

Bag:  c/o Galian

Cuff:  c/o Kendra Phillip

Ring:  Estate piece

Bracelet:  Stella and Dot

Watch:  Michael Kors

The cropped pants, lace shell, leopard heels, and studded bag keep this look from being too conservative, but I can't say that I'll be hopping on the blazer band wagon anytime soon.  It still feels a little too "buttoned up" for my personal taste.  One blazer in my closet is plenty.  I'll stick with my boho-glam, hippy-chic, artsy-girl clothes a little while longer.

What about you?  Can't get enough of blazers?  Or wish they'd go away?  Share your thoughts below.

xoxo

Jenny

Smile, tomorrow's Friday. ;)

Wednesday Wish List

As a personal shopper and stylist, I spend a lot of time shopping for other people, but sometimes it's nice to add to my own wish list.  Here are just a few of the items I am lusting after right now:

Wishlist Nov by jennysanzo featuring Leifsdottir

Leifsdottir dress
anthropologie.com

Ellen Tracy fox coat
lordandtaylor.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors pointed-toe pumps
neimanmarcus.com

Vince Camuto shoulder bag
vincecamuto.com

Madewell eyeglass
madewell.com

What are you asking Santa for this year?

xoxo

Jenny

Two for Tuesday - The Von Maur Edition

Sunday night I attended Cocktails & Couture at Eastview Mall with these fabulous ladies:

The event benefited the Wilmot Cancer Center and included after hours shopping, drinks, hors d'oeuves & desserts, live music, and a full-length fashion show featuring designers from the newly opened Von Maur department store.

After the show, the ladies and I high tailed it to Von Maur to try on some of our favorite runway looks. 

I fell in love with two dresses.

1.  French Connection Jive Leather Dress $498

Dying over this baby.

 2.  Kensie Floral Print Dress $99

Love the colors and feminine cut of this dress. 

I actually maintained some level of restraint and left the store without purchasing either.  See, miracles do happen...but I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't still thinking about both of them.  If you'd like to send a gift to your favorite fashionista, the above dresses can be purchased at Von Maur in Eastivew Mall.  I wear a four.  K.  Thanks.  Love ya.  Mean it.  Bye.

xoxo

Jenny

Made in America Monday - Commit to #ShopLocal for the Holidays

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know that two things are very important to me when it comes to shopping:  buying local and buying American.  While I could never swear off the mall, (I'm pretty sure shrivel up and die without Anthro or Forever 21) I make a real effort to buy locally or American-made goods whenever possible.  To that end I have partnered with other local bloggers in a #ShopLocal campaign to promote all of the great shopping that Rochester, New York has to offer.  I feel blessed to live in a city with such a burgeoning creative community.  There are so many talented artisans here and I can't wait to share them with you!

I would also like to encourage you to make an effort to #ShopLocal and #BuyAmerican this holiday season.  It really is a great way to support your local economy and give your dollar the most profound impact.

Source Unknown

Are you with me?  Will you make a conscious effort to support locally-sourced and American-made products this holiday season?  If so, comment below telling me why you want to #ShopLocal and #BuyAmerican.

xoxo

Jenny

PS-  American-Made Deal Alert:  Save 50% off Los Angeles-based jewelry brand Ettika with the promo code:  BLOG50.  Click the banner below to start shopping and don't forget to enter the promo code for a super sweet deal.  Happy Shopping! 

Friday Beauty Buzz - Mascara

If there is one beauty product I can't get enough of it's mascara.  I never leave the house without it and I always, always, always wear black.  I love trying new brands and am constantly searching for the perfect combo of volume and length.  I've compiled a list of four of my favorites at a variety of price points for you to peruse.  

1.  When You're Feeling Glam:  DiorShow New Look Mascara

Amplifies and multiplies lashes.
By Dior $28.50

2.  When You Want the Dramatic Look of False Lashes:  Benefit Cosmetics They're Real Mascara

Lengthens, curls, volumizes,  lifts, and separates.
By Benefit $23.00

3.  When You're Looking for a Bargain:  Maybelline Lash Stiletto Mascara

Lengthens and defines.
By Maybelline $7.39

4.  When You Want to Go Green:  Physician's Formula Organic Wear Fake Out Mascara 

Amplifies lash volume, length, and curl.
100% natural, 70% organic, 100% recyclable brush.
By Physician's Formula $8.79

What mascara do you use?  You you try different brands or stick to your tried and true favorite?  I'd love to know!

Have a great weekend!

xoxo

Jenny

Who's Your Style Inspiration?

#EncourageBeauty is well under way and I'm loving being a part of it.

Yesterday's prompt was "Instagram Love" and I decided to take the challenge beyond the "walls" of instagram and introduce all of you to five lovely ladies who serve as daily style inspirations for me.  All of these women just exude a seemingly effortless style that manages to convey an artsy coolness without looking contrived.  They manage to be on-trend, while staying unique, fresh, and maintaining a look that is all their own.  And while I don't know any of these ladies in real life, there is just something about their quiet confidence that makes me think that their real beauty, the real spark, is coming from within.  Any girl can be pretty, but you can't fake heart.

Check out the big style and (I'm sure) even bigger hearts, of my Instagram Top Five:

1.  Nikki Minton of My Style Diaries

Instagram

2. Anna Cottrell of Tulip Louise

Instagram

3.  Sydney Poulton of The Day Book 

Instagram

4.  Jessie Artigue of Style and Pepper

Instagram

5. Hilary Rushford of Dean Street Society

Instagram

Who do you look to for daily style inspiration?  Give them a shout out in the comments below and be sure to include their instagram handle.  I'd love to follow along too!

xoxo

Jenny

Sex Hair Without the Sex

Every once and a while, you come along a product that is life changing.  For me, those products include Spanx, Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, GAP Always Skinny jeans, and Powder.Puff by Kevin Murphy.  Powder.Puff gives you great sex hair without the sex.  I mean, don't get me wrong, feel free to add the sex to make it more "authentic," but if you're pressed for time or don't want to get sweaty, this product will do the trick.  It instantly adds volume and texture that will blow. your. mind.

I'm not going to bother explaining how it works, because my girl Tera Rae Stephens (who gave me my first Powder.Puff) does it so much better in her youtube video:

Don't you love her?  We met at the Journelle event at LuckyFABB and were instant girlfriends.  She's gorgeous, funny, super down-to-earth, annnnd she gives out presents (Powder.Puff) with her business cards.  What's not to like?

I gave her "present" a try Saturday night and was instantly hooked.  Tera, you rock my socks off!

I'm a fan.  Can you tell?

Kevin Murphy Powder.Puff changing lives one messy, gritty, rockstar-soccermom at a time.

Try it.  And check out my girl Tera.  She's the shiz.

Happy Hump Day!

xoxo

Jenny

PS- Get the deets on this outfit here.