Rose A La Mode

Check it out! Today we’re hearing tips and tricks from Linley at Dwelling & Telling! She’s a newlywed with some amazing hair! She’s got a video of how to do a fishtail braid for all you girls out there with long, amazing hair. Check out the video and the rest of her sassy style blog. And say hi! Comments are so much fun. 🙂

1. What is your go-to item?

Skinny jeans! I think jeans in general are a staple (for me at least), and I’ve learned that the skinny fit is what suits me best. It’s not unusual for me to wear my skinny jeans three times a week! They can be dressed up with heels, down with boots – I just love them!

2. What is your secret weapon? (Moroccan Oil? Great shoe insoles? Spanx? Give it up!)

Secret weapon: dry shampoo. Hands down. I would be lost without it. I only wash my hair two to three times a week – to keep it healthy, as everyday washing isn’t as good as you might think! Dry shampoo is my saving grace and I have about three bottles at all times! My favorite drugstore brand is Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo and my favorite higher-end brand is TIGI Rockaholic Dirty Secret.

3. What is on your (realistic) wish list right now?

Well, right now I have spring on my mind and I am loving all the bold meets soft looks in different Spring 2011 Collections. So I’d like to add a few versatile dresses, skirts, and shorts to my wardrobe. Also, a pair of flat oxfords for spring.

4. How do you keep things fresh everyday?

I’ve really been trying hard not to repeat outfits (unless they’re fabulous, then they deserve to be seen more than once!). However, I definitely repeat looks. Mentioned above, I love wearing my skinnys. So one day I may wear a tank, cardigan, and boots with the jeans, then a blouse, fitted jacket, and heels another day. I’m a believer in sticking to what works best on your body – and this works for me.

5. If you could go shopping with anybody, who would it be and why?

I’d like to have Tim Gunn by my side. He knows his stuff and I think he’d really understand the style I like. From that, he could polish it up and make it something special. And a man’s perspective is always nice. Tim, where are you?

6. Who is your Fashion Icon?

Ya know, I’ve loved style for years, but I’ve never had one distinct fashion icon. I have such an eclectic style, so it’s almost impossible for me to have one icon; however, there are several ladies and lines that really speak to me. I love Zooey Deschanel, Lauren Conrad, and Olivia Palermo’s style. I also love just about all the lookbooks J Crew, Gap, and Banana Republic put out. (sorry, I’m super awful at picking just one – of anything!)

7. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about fashion?

It’s so important to figure out what works for you (not the model in the ad) and run with it! Everyone is different (personality, body shape), trends change on a weekly basis, and it’s nearly impossible to keep up with an always-changing/evolving industry. So instead of buying what everyone else is, pick pieces that work for you and speak to you – you’ll be happier and it should be a lot easier to get dressed each morning!

8. What do you do to keep yourself fresh & looking great during travel/vacation?

Anytime I travel I always try to shower before heading off to the airport or getting in a car. Even before 6am flights, I get in the shower – and trust me, I have been on countless 6am flights – it helps! Taking a shower before getting to the airport just puts me in a great mood, and all trips should start out in a good mood! I feel clean, put together, and comfortable. As far as clothes, I don’t get dressed to the t’s for flights, but I don’t wear sweats and a t-shirt. This makes me feel great too. Also, I get some sleep before hand and drink lots of water.

I’m very loyal to my morning, night, makeup, and hair routines – so instead of packing light, I pack everything! If there’s anywhere I want to feel fabulous and comfortable, it’s when I’m away from home, so to make sure I accomplish this, I take everything with me. This may seem a bit high-maintenance, but it’s just what I do.

9. What is the best cheap/drugstore item that is totally underrated?

Mascara! I’ve only tried a couple high-end mascaras, so I can’t speak for all of them, but I’ve found some amazing mascaras for under $7 at drugstores! Some of my favorites are Maybelline Colossal Mascara and Almay Triple Effect Mascara. I’m especially loving the Almay Triple Effect right now! It’s not lumpy, it separates well, lengthens, and makes them look fabulous. When I use this stuff with some lash primer and a lash curler, it’s amazing!

10. What is the one item you should splurge on?

Can I pick two? Ok, good! These are all versatile, classic pieces. I’d love a Black Chanel Flap Bag and Black Christian Louboutin pumps. (Keep dreaming, Linley!)