The Day Dress

This is perhaps one of my most favorite trends of the season. The "day dress" isn't just meant for the day. You can easily transition this dress into night by simply switching your shoes, changing your purse, or if pressed for time, pile on the jewelry. The solid prints are more typical of a day dress, but choose something that reflects your personality. You know how to take a piece and make it your own! These dresses below are designed by Luca Luca, they are just lovely! I have also seen gorgeous pieces at Nordstrom's Rack and Forever 21... that seems to be my price point lately!

Sarah Hyland at Emmy's

  

Sarah Hyland was one of my favorite looks at the Emmy's this season! She is wearing a coral Christian Siriano gown with accordion pleats. I love this dress because it is definitely glamorous, yet not too provocative. The detail on her waist and her cuff match perfectly with her silver platforms. Her romantic waves complete this look from head to toe. Now, how do we get our hands on one of these gowns?

In Love with Brunettes this Season

Sarah Jessica Parker never ceases to impress style lovers. Her color combinations seem effortless amidst the gray sidewalks which always prove to be her runway. We are in love with her color for the fall season. She's made a brunette, bright! Her highlights are subtle and face-framing. When highlights are place correctly they appear effortless, and they show off the cut. Happy Fall :)

It's a Heat Wave

I feel like I should be preparing you ladies for fall, but behind the keyboard that I type from, we have had 30+ 100 degree days in a row! I can't even think about all the lovely fall pieces, textures, and hues that we will soon sport without feeling nauseous. So, check these beauties out. They are Christian Louboutin in the most perfect shade of gold imaginable! If I owned these, they would be next to my "bad day ring"- a ring my grandmother left behind laced with 40 diamonds. And, you could wear these in any climate. Which outfit would you love to wear these with?

Spotlight: Isaiah 18:4 says, "This is what the Lord says to me: "I will remain quiet and will look on from my dwelling place, like shimmering heat in the sunshine, like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest."  No matter what season of life you find yourself, it is true that the Lord is always present, whether we seem him or not, he is always here for us. Call out and he will answer. 

XOX- Viv

Emillo Pucci Resort 2012

I am totally in love with this look for several reasons. First, it's a Resort look, which is by far my favorite collection of them all. It is just so happy :) Yay, the weather is warmer, the sun feels brighter, and the color selections and textures in a resort collection are just fun. Secondly, I have a slight obsession with T strap sandals at the moment, and these beauties have an art deco feel to them. Third, the dress by Emilio Pucci is gorgeous! The fit of the dress is just so ladylike, which if you know me, I am a big fan of. The fabric and the hue work perfectly together. You couldn't help but have a great day if you were wearing this ensemble.

So, which pieces could you pull together from your closet to make you feel as happy as this outfit? Wear it tomorrow. Take pride in your look ladies!

"When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty." Jerimiah 15:16. Take pride in your image, and take joy in the Lord.

XOX- Viv

Armadillo Print

Mila Kunis was spotted wearing this sheer armadillo print blouse and skirt, both from Givenchy. She has paired the outfit perfectly with Christian Laboutin's, which if you remember, elongate your look. I am totally digging these neutral colors together, and I love the print pattern for this look. Armadillo? Not expected, yet very cool. If you choose to rock a print like this, we suggest to keep everything else simple.

Spotlight: Provers 11:13 says, "A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret." Just want to encourage you to hold your tongue it most situations. If you have a problem with a brother or a sister (or whoever) seek counsel from the Lord first, a confidant second, and then confront the situation with love and respect. That's how you would hope someone would handle a situation with yourself in one of your less than perfect moments, so do the same for someone else. Have a great week friends!

XOX- Viv

Fireworks

Hey friends! How was your 4th of July? Hope that your heart is full from spending time with those you love, cool treats, and bright lights (fireworks, hello!). A group of sweet gals are meeting at my house each Tuesday evening to do a summer study called "No Other Gods" by Kelly Minteer. Let me tell you, it is a good study!!! She has a book and a workbook, we are studying the latter. At the end of each week she provides a yummy recipe and a playlist. It's such a good time to take a break out of your week and refocus. Focus on what the Lord is saying, and listen to what He is teaching others. So, if you are looking for a sweet (and booty kicking) little study, I encourage you to turn the fan on hi, open a box of popsicles and invite you friends over for a great time with the Lord.

Oh, and as for the fashion? How about buying something for a dear friend that you enjoy. Or give one of your pieces away. Does the same person always compliment you on the same earings? Make her day. It feels good to get rid of things. Be a firework in someone else's day :)

Accordion Pleats

If you are looking forward to the fall as much as we are, start look for accordion pleats. They will be a great addition to your closet. Keep this trend towards the front as you will want to wear this piece all the time. I like the monochromatic look off the Zara skirt with shoes in a similar hue. Plus, if you are vertically challenge, this will elongate your look. Dress it up with a blouse, and play it down with a tee. As for a dress like this one from Alice + Olivia feautured on Kaboodle, find a shape that fits your body type and color that compliments your skin tone. I think it's fun to look for a trend before anyone else, because there isn't a high demand for it (you won't have the same piece as everyone else), and you will find something unique. Try looking at vintage stores, like Bess & Evie's. Have fun with this trend! Post your findings so that we can all "oooh and awww". 

 

Spotlight: 

2 Timothy 4:2 says "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.^"   

Ladies, you know that Timothy wasn't concerned with our wardrobes in this verse. He is encouraging believers to be ready at all times for whatever trials should come our way. I want to encourage you to be prepared for all circumstances. Be ready to share your testimony, to encourage or confront a friend. Be ready to move or to stand still. Listen to the Lord and He will help you to be prepared.

Quench Your Thirst

 

Kerastase has you covered for the summer. It does no good to have beautiful highlights in your hair (whether naturally by the sun, or your favorite stylist) if you aren't going to take care of them. Think about how your skin feels after an afternoon in the sun, pool, or sea (or lake). It's parched, right? Use the Soliel line once a week, more if you are naturally dryer to erase damage caused by the beautiful sun that we can't get enough of. It will keep your hair moisturized, and give you that "I just stepped out of the salon" look all the time. 

Spotlight- 

"In their hunger you gave them bread from heaven and in their thirst you brought them water from the rock; you told them to go in and take possession of the land you had sworn with uplifted hand to give them." Nehemiah 9:15. 
Ladies, lets face it. You have to keep up with yourself. Brush your teeth, hair, eat healthy, workout, cut and/or color your hair, balance your account, pay bills, clean everything... Being a woman is hard work! Thankfully, we have everything we need in Christ. If you're relationship with him is a healthy one, He will guide and provide ways live a healthy life. Ask the Lord for guidance and he will direct your path (Psalm 23:3). Have a beautiful summer ladies!

Stripe This Way

A fun trend for this summer are stripes! Even if you're not sailing aimlessly around the Caribbean, with a handsome sailor you can still have the same carefree feeling with this trend. Don't worry about which color scheme you choose, you really can't screw it up. Just pick colors you like and go with it. Here is a dress we love! 

This dress is Marc by Marc Jacobs. Isn't she pretty? If Marc isn't in your budget this summer, check out a store that is. Look for horizontal stripes in varying widths and bright hues. Get creative! Add a belt and wedges to glam up your look. Or comfy jellies to keep it casual. Just make it your own.

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16 Ladies, the choices you make each day, effect not only yourself but those around you.

Summer Lovin

Hey lovies! We thought it would be fun to share a few of our favorites for the summer thus far. Technically, it's not officially summer--- but it sure feels like it in good 'ol Texas. I think it hit 100 at about 1 pm. Yowza!

So here are a few treats to keep your happy smile from melting away :)

Peach & Tomato Salad. Super fresh with feta, basil and a fun vinaigrette. I found this recipe from My Recipes.

Nars Multiple Tint. These literally can't melt off, which is important if you are wanting to keep all eyes on you. These babes can be used on your cheeks, lids, and lips. The colors are bright and perfect for summer.

A few other randoms Perrier Pink Grapefruit Sparkling Water, Blue Bell Rainbow Mini Popsicle, bright summer clutches, espiraldas,  stripes on everything.

What are your favorites so far for summer?

Prayerful Consideration

Hello friends!

I just want to let you know that we are praying for the future direction of 3 Vanities. I definitely have a vision for it, but want to be certain we are walking with God, not doing our own thing! With so many things going on in the world today, don't forget that you are beautiful, you are God's and we serve Him, not the world. We live in the world, but not of the world.

We will be back soon with many fun adventures to share....

xoxo
Viv and Fern

Kiss Winter Goodbye

Now that the blizzards are gone (hopefully), and Fashion Week is before us I just want to show you a new favorite of mine. J Mendel, is amazing! He previewed his Fall RTW line this week, with inspirations from Autrialia, art deco and geometric influences. I am most impressed with his 2011 Resort line. With all this snow, crazy everyday life and work-- it's easy to catch myself daydreaming for better days to come.

This line focus on flattering hues, slimming shapes, sequins, shimmer and the most beautiful textures. If one of these beauties isn't in your budget, at least get a spray tan and have fun with your own wardrobe! You will feel better about Spring, it's just around the corner!

Fringe Benefits

Fringe is a very hot trend for fall. One reason we love this trend is because it's unlimited based on your interpretation. Look at these 3 ways to wear this trend.

1. Fringe on your bag

This Botkier Morgan Satchel is a beauty. I like the fringe detailing because it's not overdone. It's just a sweet little detail to a bold color on a structured bag.

2. Fringe bangs

If you want to sound like you are "in the know" in the salon world, refer to your bangs as "fringe". Full fringe is a simple trend to embrace this fall. Most salons will give you bangs on the house, just call and ask. We recommend styling your bangs first, before tackling the rest of your locks. Valentina (shown here) has got this trend down.

3. Fringe Lashes

Okay, this trend is for all of you dare devils! I know you're out there! Shu Uemura's Feather Lashes ($25) are a bold way to wear fringe this fall. If you choose to wear these you will most definitely be eye catching (sorry, Elem Ed major- couldn't help it)! This would be something easy to wear to spruce up your LBD for an evening. I would think just like these models shown you should keep everything simple.

Spotlight:
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23-24
Even though we work for men, it's nice to know that we are not receiving an inheritance from him. It seems like everything these days is tangible and can be gone in an instant. So lovely ladies, be careful with your inheritance and what you do to earn it. Our days are short, and not to be taken for granted.

Reader's Choice Awards

Last month Allure released their Reader Choice Awards for products. After reading that article, I feel I have nothing in common with the American woman! So, we want to know what your go-to products are! Just leave all your fav's in a comment!

Tell us your favorite: Face Cleanser & Moisturizer, Body Wash, Razor, Facial Powder/ Foundation, Blush, Bronzer, Mascara, Eyeshadow, Lipstick or Gloss, and Perfume! Anything else that you want to share? Leave it in the box :)

Spotlight:
I just want to encourage you to be who you are and to be confident in yourself and your opinions. You are a woman of God and you are beautifully and wonderfully made!

Easy Breezy

One of the things I love most about the summer, is getting away with doing your hair however. It's basically hot and sticky all summer long, and your hair seems to be on summer vacation too. Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray is a perfect product for indecisive hair. All you do is spray this on wet hair. Let it dry naturally or diffuse with a blow dryer. After that, just keep your hands out of your hair and let it do what it wants to. This product works great on all lengths and textures of hair too. Embrace this chill summer style!



Spotlight: Read Matthew 6:34, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." As a women, I find myself worrying about all kinds of crazy things I have no control over. That's one reason I think it's nice to give my summer style a break. There are plenty of other things that deserve more of our attention besides our hair. So, I encourage you to take it easy. Don't sweat the small stuff, and enjoy the sweet things of our days.

The Son not the Sun

Having been a professional makeup artist more than a decade, I have heard the question hundreds of times: "What is your best makeup tip?' In thirteen years my #1tip has never changed! Ladies hear it is...ready? Wear your sunscreen!!!! Yep that's it. I can see the drop in your face already and hear the sigh of disappointment. I know you were hoping that I would open up my treasure chest of secrets all to help transform your look. Oh sweet girlfriends, what you don't know is that I have!!!

Wearing sunscreen on a daily basis not only prevents premature aging, but it also protects and prevents your chances of developing skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer develop every year. If that is not enough to convince you, then perhaps its time I told you that there is no magic anti aging miracle cream, no lotion potion, and no miracle drug that can correct aging skin. The number one cause of premature aging is sun exposure, so it only makes since that the number one preventative is sunscreen. Here is just some FYI for you to tuck in your back pocket when it comes to sunscreen.

1.) Look for sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB rays. To make this simple for you, think of UVA as the Aging rays, and UVB as the Burning rays.

2.) Don't be fooled by sunscreens that say SPF of 75 or 100. Nothing can block 100% of the sun's rays. UVB protection does not actually increase proportionately with a designated SPF number. For example, an SPF of 30 screens 97% t of UVB rays, whereas an SPF of 15 screens 93 % of UVB rays, and an SPF of 2 screens 50% of UVB rays. However, inadequate application of sunscreen may result in a lower SPF than the product contains, which leads to my third point.

3.) Most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. One application is approximately 1 ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass. Make sure to cover all exposed areas thoroughly including the ears and hands. Just a little secret ladies: your face may look young, but your hands will give your real age, and I look every time. Protect them!

4.) Keep in mind there is no safe way to tan. The sun's rays do the most damage between 10AM-4PM. If your shadow is shorter than you seek shade when possible. There are plenty of way to look bronze beautiful in a safe way. I will cover that on my next post. For now I want you to focus on protecting your beautiful skin.

It is never too late to start protecting your skin.Where do you begin? I'm so glad you asked! My sunscreens of choice are:
Celazone available at http://www.amazon.com/ which is amazing for all skin types, including acne prone skin. Celazome has very few ingredients and is non irritating. It truly lasts all day. I have been a user of this product for three years.

I'm am loving the new Tropical Vanilla SPF 32 Sun Cream by Eminence http://www.eminenceorganics.com/. It has been clinically tested to increase moisture levels in the skin by 250% after one week of use. This one is a newby for me, but most definitely a keeper. I can't get enough of this product. My skin doesn't feel sucked dry after sun exposure. It is available in a face and body formula. I haven't been daring enough to try it for face yet as I'm so prone to breakout.

Are you super sunscreen sensitive?? No problem!!! Try the SPF travel powder by http://www.eminenceorganics.com/, or http://www.chantecaille.com/. Both come in a translucent color, and contain at least an SPF of 30. Keep in mind that mineral powder SPF's don't always protect as well as creams and lotions so limit your sun exposure.

Are you in need of cheap sunscreen that still protects well? My pick is good ole WaterBabies by Coppertone. The thick rich formula covers and protects the most sensitive and fairest of skin (me :)), not to mention it has the best smell. It always reminds me of summer. They also have a chubby stick I recommend for face and lips. The best thing about these two products is that they are available at just about any drugstore or supermarket on the planet.

Spotlight:

I have a question? What has burned you? I don't just mean physically, I mean what has burned you emotionally, mentally, spiritually? The husband or boyfriend that promised forever? The coworker, the parent, the child, the friend, the shopping, the martini, the magazines, the career? ...and the list goes on.

Next question, When that person or thing burned you, what position on your priority list could I find it? Was it above or below Jesus? Ouch and mega OUCH!!!
I have to tell you, as much as I don't want to, often times the people or things that burn us so bad cause such a burn because they moved up a position on the priority list. Perhaps they took number one. Check out this verse:

"Those that cling to worthless idols, forfeit the grace that could be theirs." Jonah 2:8

I'm in no way saying that the people, or things in our lives are worthless, but I am saying I don't want us placing them as an idol above Jesus. I ask you, sunburn and all, to take what has burned you to the throne of the Son that saves. Grab your grace back and let him heal you. Sit with Jesus and reprioritize your list, making sure He is number one, and ummmmm it might be a good idea for sunscreen to be number two!!

The (Wo)man in the Mirror

No fashion, skin care or makeup advice for you today. Although, Carrie's vanity is sa-weet!

Just a good word from the Spirit:

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen"

Ephesians 3:20, 21

I find myself fretting over the same things day after day, and even beyond that. This verse is encouraging to me that God is able to do "immeasurably more than we ask or imagine". So can he handle your bills? Yes! Insecurities? Yes! (Fill in the blank)? Yes!

Lady in Red

Geepers! It's been since February since my last post? That is not so fantastic! Well, I want you to know that I have made a list: 29 things to do while I'm 29, and #14 is to make 52 posts on 3Vanities. Even though the make-up maven and the skincare siren have made a temporary exit, I will keep true to my word. So here goes nothing!

I found an amazing site. Apparently lots of peeps know of it, but if you don't check out Lulu's! I have to admit I have a slight addiction to dresses, and this site allows you to quench the craving without breaking your piggy bank. This adorable red dress to the left is only $37. They have a small selection (728 to be exact) to choose from.

Spotlight:

I think it is important not to overspend. Read this verse in Hebrews: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (13:5). Take my dress addiction as an example. It is okay to love dresses, but it is not okay to love dresses more than God. That is true with anything on this earth, including money. So remember that when you break into your piggy bank to make a purchase.

Ice, Ice, Baby!

In lieu of the pending snow, I thought it would be fun to show you an icy trend for the upcoming season. These obviously are faux, from Forever 21. As with most the trends we show you, this can add oomph to a dressy or casual fit.

Spotlight: Job 38: 29 says, "From whose womb comes the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens?" The first thing I noticed from this verse, is that the frost is from the heavens. When I see dew or frost in the morning, my first thought isn't always that it's from God. The more time you spend with God in prayer, and in the Word, the more natural these thoughts become- that when you see something beautiful such as frost, you automatically think it's from God! Spend time with God this week, and see what beauties he opens your eyes to!