Solange.

Image via vogue.com

     With my sister newly engaged, I definitely have weddings on the brain. We've been trading ideas back and forth by phone and text since her fiance slid the ring on her finger. One thing that surprised me slightly is that she plans on wearing a very simple and elegant dress to her ceremony, foregoing the crazily embellished, multi-layered cupcake dresses I have become accustomed to seeing. I hoping simplicity becomes a more popular trend concerning wedding gowns, and after seeing Solange Knowles' simple Humberto Leon for Kenzo dress, I hope all future brides will take note.

Fancy Versus Frugal.

Image via zapposcouture.com

     I fully admit to having champagne tastes on a beer budget. Sometimes that even extends to champagne tastes on a bottled water budget. The point is, as a former personal shopper, I pride myself on my talent to shop around for both the best prices, and for comparable items. I fell madly in love with these Elizabeth and James Compass Rose Stud earrings many months ago, but at $195 I wasn't exactly rushing out to get them, despite the urge. (If you are so inclined, you can do so HERE.) So when I stumbled on Lauren Conrad's Starburst Stud Earrings from her LC Lauren Conrad line for Kohl's, I was a happy camper. Why? Take a look...

Image via kohls.com

     They're practically identical! Albeit, for the $9.60 they'll set you back, you won't be getting white topaz like the Elizabeth and James version, but you WILL be getting the exact same look for a tiny fraction of the price. I love these! And they'll keep my earlobes nice and warm until I can upgrade to the Elizabeth and James pair. You can purchase your own set HERE.

Loveliest Look.

Image via Getty Images.

     Keira, Keira, Keira. Why she wears anything other than Chanel Haute Couture at all times is beyond me. (Not the most practical or financially viable choice, I am well aware.) She always manages to make these intricate, exquisite garments appear both entirely classic and completely modern. She wears them with an ease and a casual edge that is just magic. Perhaps that why this is the second time in a row she's been my pick for Loveliest Look. Don't stop with the Chanel Keira. Please.

Grace.

Happy birthday to a fellow Philadelphia native, Her Serene Highness, Princess Grace of Monaco,

AKA Grace Kelly.

Today would have been her 85th birthday.

Things That Sparkle.

     Typically when a designer capsule collection is announced in partnership with a chain store, I go through a wave of emotions. Elation often leads to excitement, leads to anticipation, leads to disappointment once I view said collaborations in person. However... there is always an exception to the rule. One of my favorite jewelry designers Alexis Bittar, has created a small collection of tools for Sephora, and they are gorgeous! I've been a fan of Alexis Bittar for many years, and as a former personal stylist, I've adorned many a client in his beautiful, unique, American made (in Brooklyn!) baubles. I love that he's taken his natural aesthetic and translated everyday items into things that sparkle. The main piece of the collection is this exquisite makeup brush set, consisting of 5 gold and crystal encrusted brushes, and a sleek display stand. The set will set you back $175, but with tools this pretty, your makeup application will be far from boring.

     This powder brush and accompanying travel roll is perfect for a girl on the go in need of frequent touch-ups. This set will cost you $58.

     My favorite piece from the collection is this clamshell shaped compact. I have been searching high and low for a glamorous mirror to store in my handbag, and I have most certainly found a winner. This beauty will set you back $42. Run, don't walk to your nearest Sephora to check out these fabulous finds! Oh, and I've heard whispers that there are credits to the Alexis Bittar website in each package... Enjoy!