Mermaid Tail Braid

We haven't done a hair tutorial in ages! So, my friend (and hair genius) Caroline, photographer Jamie Beck and I decided to come together to whip up this gorgeous mermaid tail. It's perfect for those lazy summer day (or date nights) when you want to surprise and awe people with your hair. I absolutely love it--in fact, it might be my favorite hair tutorial yet. How gorgeous is that braid, above?!

Here are Caroline's steps, if you'd like to try it out...
1. Divide your hair into two equal sections.

2-4. Braid each section, and tie the end with an elastic band. You'll want to do what's called a "Dutch braid." For a normal braid, you take the outside section and cross it IN FRONT of the middle section. A Dutch braid is the opposite: the outside section goes BEHIND the middle section. It's important to do the braids this way so that they'll look seamless when when you connect the two sections later.

5-6. Fatten out the two braids by pulling apart the outer edges. I like to "smush" the braid back and forth in my fingers, too—whatever makes them fuller and fatter and not so sleek.

7. Line up the two separate braids so they begin to look like one big fat braid. It's important to make sure the middle section of the mermaid tail lines up--don't worry if the ends of your braids (the hair that is sticking out underneath the elastic) are uneven, it won't matter. It's more important to line up the braid correctly, so the center of the tail matches.

8. Pin the center of the two braided sections together. I tend to use mini bobby pins since they are easier to hide, and I like to pin them in and up (you start with the pin facing horizontally, then as you push it into the hair, you direct it vertically). Use as many bobby pins as it takes, until you feel the braid is secure. I used about five little pins, and pinned about 1 1/2 inches apart, wherever I could best hide them.

(Optional step: You can remove the two separate rubber bands at the end, and just use one to combine the two tails together. I didn't do this because I used smaller rubber bands to begin with.)
"That's it!" says Caroline, "Such an easy fun way to wear something other than a plain ol' braid!" Would be great to wear this braid all summer, don't you think? :) (And here are our eight previous hair tutorials, if you'd like more summer hair ideas.) Thank you again, Caroline and Jamie!

(Photos by Jamie Beck for Cup of Jo. In the outdoor photos, Caroline is wearing this chambray top. Her jewelry is from her own line, Brvtvs, and her lipstick is So Chaud by MAC. In the how-to photos, she is wearing a vintage striped tee--similar one here--and vintage jeans--similar ones here.)

Mermaid Tail Braid

We haven't done a hair tutorial in ages! So, my friend (and hair genius) Caroline, photographer Jamie Beck and I decided to come together to whip up this gorgeous mermaid tail. It's perfect for those lazy summer day (or date nights) when you want to surprise and awe people with your hair. I absolutely love it--in fact, it might be my favorite hair tutorial yet. How gorgeous is that braid, above?!

Here are Caroline's steps, if you'd like to try it out...
1. Divide your hair into two equal sections.

2-4. Braid each section, and tie the end with an elastic band. You'll want to do what's called a "Dutch braid." For a normal braid, you take the outside section and cross it IN FRONT of the middle section. A Dutch braid is the opposite: the outside section goes BEHIND the middle section. It's important to do the braids this way so that they'll look seamless when when you connect the two sections later.

5-6. Fatten out the two braids by pulling apart the outer edges. I like to "smush" the braid back and forth in my fingers, too—whatever makes them fuller and fatter and not so sleek.

7. Line up the two separate braids so they begin to look like one big fat braid. It's important to make sure the middle section of the mermaid tail lines up--don't worry if the ends of your braids (the hair that is sticking out underneath the elastic) are uneven, it won't matter. It's more important to line up the braid correctly, so the center of the tail matches.

8. Pin the center of the two braided sections together. I tend to use mini bobby pins since they are easier to hide, and I like to pin them in and up (you start with the pin facing horizontally, then as you push it into the hair, you direct it vertically). Use as many bobby pins as it takes, until you feel the braid is secure. I used about five little pins, and pinned about 1 1/2 inches apart, wherever I could best hide them.

(Optional step: You can remove the two separate rubber bands at the end, and just use one to combine the two tails together. I didn't do this because I used smaller rubber bands to begin with.)
"That's it!" says Caroline, "Such an easy fun way to wear something other than a plain ol' braid!" Would be great to wear this braid all summer, don't you think? :) (And here are our eight previous hair tutorials, if you'd like more summer hair ideas.) Thank you again, Caroline and Jamie!

(Photos by Jamie Beck for Cup of Jo. In the outdoor photos, Caroline is wearing this chambray top. Her jewelry is from her own line, Brvtvs, and her lipstick is So Chaud by MAC. In the how-to photos, she is wearing a vintage striped tee--similar one here--and vintage jeans--similar ones here.)

Fresh Take On Spring Makeup

Must be the spring in the air because recently I find myself craving new makeup tricks (but as you all know by now I am totally hopeless in that department). Nothing drastic or unexpected, just want to perfect that fresh natural summer look - exactly the one Chelsa is wearing in that photo. For me, there is nothing sexier than healthy/glowing skin, rosy cheeks, bit of lipstick and long foxy lashes. I fell in love with that lipstick colour so much that I even got one for myself this morning - it's in satin light rosewood shade (different from my usual red but perfect with flowy dresses for summer days).

Lovelies, doesn’t she look beautiful? Do you use makeup daily or like me just a bit of lipstick or a blush? What’s your morning makeup routine? Any tips you’d like to share? xo

P.S: If you fancy trying this look here is what you need!
P.P.S: Also, here are a few tricks to avoid lipstick faux pas.

(Photo by Jamie Beck)

Summer Essential #2: FANTASTIC natural sunscreen

After literally years of searching, I've finally found the best sunscreen. And here's why:

1. Regular sunscreen can be dangerous. Three years ago, before our honeymoon, my friend Jessa Blades, a natural beauty consultant and makeup artist, warned me that regular sunscreen often contains dangerous chemicals and harmful toxins that may actually cause cancer. (This article, most recently, made my knees wobble!) Ever since then, Alex and I have worn natural mineral sunscreen, which feel so important, especially since you slather it all over your body (and your children's bodies) everyday.

2. But natural sunscreens look bad. Yes, here's the catch: Natural sunscreens don't really absorb into your skin. You end up covered in sticky lotion, looking white as a ghost; and sunscreen can have flaky residue, which is, needless to say...not attractive. I secretly hate using it, but know it's worth it.

3. And here's the solution! I had almost given up on finding a natural sunscreen that doesn't look terrible, but now I'm thrilled to say I've finally found one!! Josie Maran's Daily Sun Protection is both natural and absorbs beautifully. The lightweight sunscreen also contains argan oil, which makes you look young and glow-y. Alex and Toby will be wearing it this summer, too. I highly, highly, highly recommend it. Find it here.
Here's to a happy, healthy summer! (More summer essentials to come...)

(Top photo by Garance Dore)

Summer Essential #2: FANTASTIC natural sunscreen

After literally years of searching, I've finally found the best sunscreen. And here's why:

1. Regular sunscreen can be dangerous. Three years ago, before our honeymoon, my friend Jessa Blades, a natural beauty consultant and makeup artist, warned me that regular sunscreen often contains dangerous chemicals and harmful toxins that may actually cause cancer. (This article, most recently, made my knees wobble!) Ever since then, Alex and I have worn natural mineral sunscreen, which feel so important, especially since you slather it all over your body (and your children's bodies) everyday.

2. But natural sunscreens look bad. Yes, here's the catch: Natural sunscreens don't really absorb into your skin. You end up covered in sticky lotion, looking white as a ghost; and sunscreen can have flaky residue, which is, needless to say...not attractive. I secretly hate using it, but know it's worth it.

3. And here's the solution! I had almost given up on finding a natural sunscreen that doesn't look terrible, but now I'm thrilled to say I've finally found one!! Josie Maran's Daily Sun Protection is both natural and absorbs beautifully. The lightweight sunscreen also contains argan oil, which makes you look young and glow-y. Alex and Toby will be wearing it this summer, too. I highly, highly, highly recommend it. Find it here.
Here's to a happy, healthy summer! (More summer essentials to come...)

(Top photo by Garance Dore)

Pop Coloured Eyelids: Thumbs up or down?

I'm terrible when it comes to applying eye makeup and probably that is why I stick to my good friend, the red lipstick most of the time. Having said that, I'm utterly intrigued with the new trend that is everywhere right now - the colour popped lids . It seems that ladies all around the globe are swapping their black eyeliner for this unexpected pop of bright eye-shadow onto their top lid.

I'm torn, but what do you think? Would you try this look? Have you already? What pop of colour would you go with? xo

P.S: If you fancy trying it, here is the how to.
P.P.S: Also, three snazzy ways to va va voom.

(Photos via Dilly Dallas and Free People)

Haircut inspiration

How long is your hair? Mine has been halfway down my back for as long as I can remember, but this morning I stumbled upon photos of this Madewell model, and her choppy locks are tempting me to go shoulder-length. I tried holding up my hair in the mirror to see what it would look like, but it's hard to tell. Are you daring with your haircuts? My sister will dye her hair in the sink, and cut blunt bangs without blinking an eye. But I'm such a wuss, even over a few inches! :)

(Photos from Madewell)

Haircut inspiration

How long is your hair? Mine has been halfway down my back for as long as I can remember, but this morning I stumbled upon photos of this Madewell model, and her choppy locks are tempting me to go shoulder-length. I tried holding up my hair in the mirror to see what it would look like, but it's hard to tell. Are you daring with your haircuts? My sister will dye her hair in the sink, and cut blunt bangs without blinking an eye. But I'm such a wuss, even over a few inches! :)

(Photos from Madewell)

What kind of perfume do you wear?

Are you looking forward to this summer? Now that the weather's getting warmer, I just ordered Bobbi Brown's Beach Body Oil. Apparently the moisturizing oil gives your arms and legs a sexy sheen when you're wearing a dress or shorts (ooh la la), and doubles as a lightweight perfume that smells like the beach. Can't wait to wear it on afternoon picnics and date nights this year (along with sunscreen, of course). What perfume are you wearing these days?

P.S. Seven other quirky perfumes.

(Photo of Grace Kelly, taken by her sister, 1955)

What kind of perfume do you wear?

Are you looking forward to this summer? Now that the weather's getting warmer, I just ordered Bobbi Brown's Beach Body Oil. Apparently the moisturizing oil gives your arms and legs a sexy sheen when you're wearing a dress or shorts (ooh la la), and doubles as a lightweight perfume that smells like the beach. Can't wait to wear it on afternoon picnics and date nights this year (along with sunscreen, of course). What perfume are you wearing these days?

P.S. Seven other quirky perfumes.

(Photo of Grace Kelly, taken by her sister, 1955)

Do or don't: Middle part

This spring, there's a new trend in town: The middle part. Here are some photos...
Read more »

Do or don't: Middle part

This spring, there's a new trend in town: The middle part. Here are some photos...
Read more »

Monday's Muse: Grecian Braids

I have been inspired by Grecian braids lately, it's the perfect hairstyle for a formal occasion.

via pintrest

6 spring nail polish trends

My twin sister texted me from a San Francisco nail salon the other day. Standing in front of endless rows of polish, she had no idea which shade to choose. "Which colors are 'cool' right now?" she asked. Well, after our half-joking conversation, I researched this season's nail polish trends, and ever since I've been noticing (and admiring) these gorgeous colors on pretty girls around the city. Nails are on fire this spring!

Which color, below, do you like best? What color is on your fingers and toes as we speak? (My nails are currently orange, but my next color will be mint:) xoxo
Six nail polish trends: Very pale pink (or even beige), mint, lavender, bright orange, fuchsia and orange/red. (Find similar colors here, too.)

(Top photo of my sister and me. Polish layout by Em for Cup of Jo. Flower photos, cropped, by Paris Apartment, Flora Abundance, Kari Herer, Tongue in Cheek, Oh Happy Day and FlirtyFleurs.)

6 spring nail polish trends

My twin sister texted me from a San Francisco nail salon the other day. Standing in front of endless rows of polish, she had no idea which shade to choose. "Which colors are 'cool' right now?" she asked. Well, after our half-joking conversation, I researched this season's nail polish trends, and ever since I've been noticing (and admiring) these gorgeous colors on pretty girls around the city. Nails are on fire this spring!

Which color, below, do you like best? What color is on your fingers and toes as we speak? (My nails are currently orange, but my next color will be mint:) xoxo
Six nail polish trends: Very pale pink (or even beige), mint, lavender, bright orange, fuchsia and orange/red. (Find similar colors here, too.)

(Top photo of my sister and me. Polish layout by Em for Cup of Jo. Flower photos, cropped, by Paris Apartment, Flora Abundance, Kari Herer, Tongue in Cheek, Oh Happy Day and FlirtyFleurs.)

Snazzy Nails

Picture wearing a cozy striped top with a pair of rolled-up pants, comfy nude-colour flats, no makeup, just a hint of rosy cheeks, maybe a French messy bun and this polish on your short nails - outfit perfection!

Loves, would you wear this shade? (I'm sporting it today and it makes me feel snazzy). xo

P.S: It's a Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in cinna-snap (and under $5). Love!
P.P.S: My other favourite nail polish.

(Photos of Phoebe by Rory van Millingen via Sous Style)

Beauty Trend: Pale Lips For Spring

According to Red Mag this spring and summer will be all about pale lips. Anything from soft beiges, snazzy pinks even to sassy peaches, all with matte or gloss finish. Victoria says the key to perfecting the pale lip look is creating a soft and smooth base for the nude colour with a great lip balm. (She recommends the Ole Henriksen’s Fresh lips). Even though I love my red lips, I'm totally up for trying the pale look this spring. Just imagine sporting it with a low ponytail, rosy cheeks and a flowy dress. Effortless beauty at its best, don't you think? Lovelies, will you be wearing pale lips this season? xo

(Photos by/via The Post Social, Jamie Beck and Matt Lever)

5 Steps To Purple Perfection

I am utterly hopeless when it comes to applying eyeshadow. The result is more often mortifying than not and instead of looking snazzy, I mostly end up looking like a mess.

So imagine my excitement when Annamarie did a five step tutorial on this awesome purple eye shadow look that has been everywhere lately. I adore the mix of sweet soft pink lips and cheeks with the beautifully defined lavender-purple eyes. Great combination from day to night, don’t you think? She also says that it’s super easy to play around with the intensity of the colour. You can either punch up or tone down the shades depending on your mood and your liking. (Bonus tip: when using purple tones don't forget to use mascara to brighten and define the eyes).

Loves, would you try this look? Do you use eyeshadow daily? What’s your favourite colour? xo

P.S: Annamarie recommends this eye shadow, this cheek colour, this lipstick in dolce vita and this mascara for this snazzy finish:)
P.P.S: Three ways to va va voom!

(Photos via Glamour)

Do or Don't: Black nail polish

The other day, I was watching the (surprisingly funny) show New Girl, and the gorgeous character Julia was wearing black nail polish. Instead of looking goth, her black polish looked grown-up and sexy. Since then, black nail polish has been popping up everywhere: pretty girls around town, celebrities at events, even the finalists on The Bachelor. :) What do you think? Would you wear it?

(Photos by New Girl, Getty Images and The StreetStyle)

Do or Don't: Black nail polish

The other day, I was watching the (surprisingly funny) show New Girl, and the gorgeous character Julia was wearing black nail polish. Instead of looking goth, her black polish looked grown-up and sexy. Since then, black nail polish has been popping up everywhere: pretty girls around town, celebrities at events, even the finalists on The Bachelor. :) What do you think? Would you wear it?

(Photos by New Girl, Getty Images and The StreetStyle)