Saturday, January 7, 2012

The best DIY accessories links on the web!

I am not that crafty. Ok, so I am a little crafty. But I am also a lover of word of mouth. So I have decided to share a few AMAZING links. I'm not lightly using the adjective either. These are so easy, that you could punch all of these out as gifts. They're all such good quality, that it would be a used to death of object.

If you like the blog I link to, please follow it and tell friends. :)

First up, a braided charm bracelet. I can think of a few more ways to simplify the process, but make it your own, and subscribe if you like!

Braided charm bracelet: http://weheartthis.com/2011/07/27/diy-braided-charm-bracelet/

Next is a bracelet so easy and distinct, that you only need three items: a thin, long length or rope, some embroidery thread, some clear glue. This could be a male or female gift too!

Super easy knot bracelet: http://www.thanksimadeitblog.com/2011/12/simple-diy-knotted-rope-bracelet.html?m=1

One of the coolest homemade pieces of jewlery I have seen is this cat necklace. I'm also including links to outline templates of other cool animals to make, perhaps? This could be adapted into a keychain, earrings, etc.

Awesome cat necklace: http://cationdesigns.blogspot.com/2011/10/easy-diy-black-cat-necklace.html

TEMPLATES FOR ANIMALS FOR NECKLACE:
*Owl: http://img4.sunset.com/i/2008/10/owl-cookie-template-m.jpg?300:300
*Two different, cool looking birds: http://needlework.craftgossip.com/files/2008/12/trbirds.jpg
*Dolphin outline: http://www.wpclipart.com/animals/aquatic/dolphin/dolphin_outline.png
*Bat https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWrAWynwdd62uVCXuFdxwP6bFHanDRtc4nUZwoYdAqgQVZtw8fkkCrNSpahyaVS7iifThU2gLulV9c0T79F68qqp64fdfNHC6j6J8qr9-X2JIlUihsA5IVlKd3ihW8kpEebjeObWkLsFA/s400/bat_decoration_template.jpg
*Elaphant: http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/elephant_template_460.jpg

I suggest you start pumping them out now. Make some for stocking stuffers and gifts, and give these perhaps a sell attempt on Etsy? You are only limited by your imagination. Try sequins, glitter glue, rhinestones, patterned fabric, different chains, extra charms, a ribbon, or anything.

Drumroll puhleeeeese. Saved the best for last! This I stumbled across on accident. Best accident ever. I made two of these tote bags in literally 20 minutes. This is a no sew, 10 Minute T Shirt Tote bag. Yes, it is as easy as it sounds. Very sturdy. I've included a photo of the two I made, one with a sheep, and one that was a threadless shirt. Remember, you can wash these like a shirt. It is so quick to make, it's unbelievable. A superb use of recycling. Depending on what kind of shirt you use, you could get lots of compliments!

Coolest tote ever:  http://www.leethal.net/zine/?p=134

I hope you are REALLY into unique, homemade, fashionable items, because I am very far from finished. These will hold you over until next week. Please drop me a line if you have any DIY projects to add! Toodles!


Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Extreme eye makeup for daily wear.

Makeup is fun. It's one of the most fun ways to change your look. While "the natural look" is fantastic for some days, an extreme eye makeup look is also sometimes appropriate.

I have included a few photos. The first four are classic examples of extreme eye makeup. Feather, sequins, glitter, or in some cases, jewels and stickers may be used. These types of eye makeup are tyically reserved for photo shoots, runways, etc.  The last two are the traditional and more acceptable way to wear extreme makeup in daily life. Adapt that style using a variety of colors and perhaps adding a winged cat eye or some false eyelashes.

A few tips:

*When wearing an extreme eye look, a flat base is key. Proper concealer and coverage is crucial. A dark circle can quickly ruin a look.

*ALWAYS pair an extreme eye look with neutral, or clear gloss only lips. Going all out on every feature will make you look like a clown from the 80's.

*Keep your outfit in mind. While makeup is always fun, sweats and a stained up tee shirt do not compliment the hard work of an extreme eye well. Work in contrast or compliment of the colors you are wearing, or wear all neutrals, so the eye REALLY stands out!

*Blend. Blend. Blend. The key to making an extreme eye work is using bright, fantastic colors, and making them blend well with other extreme colors.

*Perfect the look at home. Once you know you have it, you will feel confident enough to wear your bright makeup proudly.

*Use quality colors. MAC, while ideal and great, isn't cheap. I recommend L'Oreal's line of shadows and liners called HIP, (which stands for High Intensity Pigment), because of both cost and effectiveness. A two inch wide two color eyeshadow will run you roughly $10-12 for L'Oreal, and $23-$35 for MAC.

*Get creative with brush and formula adaptation. Use a thin, flat concealer brush to dot on eye liner. Add a couple drops of sterile eye drops to an eyeshadow, and make the color crazy bright. Use two wet colors to blend on your hand and create a new color.

Think of yourself as an artist, and create as such. Makeup is literally a paint, and your face is a canvas!