Happy New Year 2010!

Wishing you all the best New Year 2010! Cheers and be safe!

Happy New Year from Benny!!!!!!

Above is a photo of my dog Benny (LOVE!) and he's wishing you and yours and all the readers of my little ol' blog a FABULOUS New Year on behalf of myself, David and NIKOLAKI.

Here's a Benny Toast to a better 2010 for everyone!
xoxoNick Verreos

1st Blog Birthday!

It's been 1 year now!

I started this blog on Christmas Eve of 2008 simply because I felt bored. Now, 1 year later, this blog has become a part of me.

Happy Birthday to us and thank you (reading this) very much for all of your support throughout this year. Your comments and letters to me are a huge reward for the time and effort it takes to post new things.

Thank you! And Cheers!

XOXO,

Awilda

GET THIS LOOK HERE

Today's Small Haul

A little retail therapy before the end of 2009.

A few of my twitter friends recommended some of the Nars red lipsticks. I happily obliged and picked up the Dragon Girl Velvet Matte Lip Pencil. I wore it home! Enough said.

I am also running out of my fabulous Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation. I originally wanted to try to the Sheer Glow foundation because my Youtube buddy AmyNicolaox loves it. We wear the same shade in foundation, Stromboli (aka MAC NC40). However, I have oily skin and the MUA suggested the Sheer Matte Foundation. I can't wait to try this foundation out because it is more yellow based than my Armani.

Do you own any of these products? What do you think about them?

XOXO

Awilda

Figure Skating Costume Controversy!

Aboriginal Costume Misstep: Yay or Nay?Welcome To Australia: Russian Ice Dancing Champions

The Winter Olympics in Vancouver are only 43 days away and there is already controversy with one of the top Ice Dancing teams from Russia. Do I even need to remind you of why I love Figure Skating? The reigning World Champion Ice Dancing team, Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin from Russia have had a tough time this year and have not been able to participate in the Pre-Olympic International Grand Prix Events. But that didn't stop the Russian Federation from crowning them the Champs with a score that rivaled the best of the season (How do you say quelle surprise in Russian?)
Hey Look We Have Plants Growing Out Of Our Bodysuits!

But the real controversy was not about their scores, but about their costumes darlings. In the original dance, skaters are required to use music that is based on a national folk tune. Domnina and Shabalin chose very unusual Aboriginal music, using voices as the instruments. Their costumes were based on Aboriginal Tribal-wear (see above) using white body paint and red cloth "crotch covers". But then their costume designer took some Aboriginal "liberty": For some unknown reason they had leaves planted (pun intended) throughout their costume bodysuits and....wait for it....they also were in what some critics have deemed Blackface. Therefore the controversy. The skating bloggersphere forums have been abuzz over it. I think it's a bit odd and in bad taste. But I'd love to know what the rest of you think--or at least my fellow Figure Skating fans. Yay or Nay?

UPDATE: Click HERE to see what I thought about their UPDATED costumes at the Olympics, when I reviewed all the Dance Costumes with Kristi Yamaguchi and Peter Carruthers! LIVE!

FOTD : Chanel Noir

Isn't this captivating?
There's just something so bold about wearing a dark eye with dark lips.

When I saw this photo, I thought: This is a woman who is sure of herself, mysterious and sexy all at the same time.

MAC Haul

Since I hadn't bought anything from MAC in a while, I decided it was about time I offloaded some more money (like I need to at this time of year???) I got a few products that I have heard ALOT about and finally I can score them off my lust list - hurrah! Here's a rundown of what I got:

1)Lovelorn Lipstick (Blue toned Pink Lustre Finish)
2)CremeSheen Lipglasses in Partial to Pink (Light creamy yellow pink with light gold pearl) and 3)Boy Bait (Light neutral beige with pearl)
4)Cream Colour Base in Pearl (Soft pale gold with icy shimmer)
5)Prep & Prime Transparent Finishing Face Powder
6)Eyeshadows in Satin Taupe (Taupe brown with silvery bronze shimmer, frost), Parfait Amour (Vivid bluish-violet duochrome*with violet opalescent shimmer, frost) and Naked Lunch (Minimal pink with shimmer, frost)

Here's a close look at the lipstick and gloss wands...

L-R: Lovelorn, Partial to Pink, Boy Bait. I really like the bluish pink shade of Lovelorn and it is just that bit brighter than the other MAC lipsticks in my collection. I think it's really wearable though and particularly pretty when combined with the Partial to Pink gloss. As with most MAC Lipsticks it has a smooth texture when applied and has great pigmentation. I really like the formulation of the Cremesheen glosses, they feel moisturising on the lips and are not too sticky. It's swatching time!

Top to Bottom: Boy Bait, Partial to Pink, Lovelorn.

I had to get this product after AlphaBlonde (Aleksis) raved about it in a YouTube vid and on her blog...I have the CCB in Shell already and I love it so a pale golden shade sounded wonderful! I am so happy I got this because it's just beautiful and very much like a cream version of Nars Albatross highlighter. I have heard a few people saying they find it too sticky or difficult to apply. I have never had that problem because I rub a very small amount of the product into the back of my hand until it is distributed evenly, then I tap my fingertips on the product and then apply it lightly to my cheekbones. If you try to apply it directly to the skin then you will get uneven patches and it will look too heavy. So if you struggle with this product then give that method a go before you write it off as a bad product. I adore this product!

Here's a swatch of the gorgeousness!

I had heard about this product from Killacam at Eclectic Beauty, when she listed it on her blog as a product that gives a completely flawless finish...I'll have some of that please! I'm all for any powder that can deliver a soft matte look whilst making my skin glow (I'm wondering if it can surpass MAC MSF Natural which I currently use).

And last but not least, here are the eyeshadows I bought. I decided to just buy the e/s refill pans so I could pop them stright into my palette. I have wanted to get Satin Taupe forever, everyone seemed to rave about it so I caved in and got it. And boy am I glad that I bought it. It's an absolutely gorgeous colour and teamed with Naked Lunch, an everyday essential shade for a neutral eye. Naked Lunch was a shade I wanted to get after watching countless Kandee The Makeup Artist vids on YouTube where she uses it as a brow highlight and in the inner corners of the eye. It's a gorgeous soft pink/beige and I can tell I will hit pan with this e/s VERY quickly! Parfait Amour is an amazing colour that I wanted to get after Aleksis (Alphablonde) used it in a tutorial and talked about it on her blog. This e/s is such a beautiful colour and it is so unique!

Here are the swatches and I am sure you'll agree that all 3 eyeshadows are gorgeous!

I am so happy with everything I got (I love it when that happens) and I also like it when I get products that I have been lusting after for ages.

Have you guys tried any of these products?

The Past .......... Fashion Fade, Style Stayed!!

Hope everyone had a wonderful holidays!! And received whatever in your wish-list!!! :)



This year, I eliminate all the hassle doing cooking, hosting a party and just have a dinner w/ a small family of our own on Christmas' eve for once. Therefore, other than couple visits of friends, couple hot pot dinners w/ two lovely family, and a big get-back-together dinner w/ long-time-no-see friends, we family has been busy celebrating ourselves, literally.

Speaking of Christmas gift, I am still waiting for MINE to come. I don't know if I should have it now or save it for big in the future. And you know, if you want to save for something big or more meaningful, sometimes, you know how rational you could be!!! ^O^


Here are couple looks of me during holidays. They are not exactly HOLIDAY LOOKs but I know I'd carry those styles of me forever!

I always add a shrug over sleeveless dress to keep me warm.

I was wondering how many people would separate spring/summer clothes from fall/winter apparel. Maybe only those made by "WOOL".  

Most of us probably hang/store all the clothes in ONE closet other than a separated one. Of course, we divide all the clothes but probably not necessarily categorize them in a fashion of summer or winter clothes. Well, at least, I don't!!

1. Top:

Linda loudermilk organic organza dress 

Lerario Beatriz washed wool vest

2. Bottoom:

black wool leggings w/ buttons (bought at Paris)

3. Accessory:

Fellon brass cross/crystals necklace

Alexander Wang Coco duffel leather bag in Gray

4. Shoes: Matiko gray suede cut-out sandal heels

That's not it, a wool vest would update so-much-of-a-summer dress look to a proper winter ensemble.

As usual, after Christmas, I would go out and hunt for cute ornaments for next year!!! Now I think I have collected at last 140 ornaments and most of them are silver, golden, metallic green, and metallic purple. 

I really like my friend's, Yu, Christmas tree as well.  It is decorated in adorable animals in knitting, or plastic or polyester material.  (Oh, definitely a kids friendly Christmas tree.)  

Couple more of my friends got a Christmas trees for themselves from floor sample sale. Geez, they are brilliant, I mean, how many people would think of getting a great deal by buying floor sample tree after Christmas!! ^O^

I think I might be able to hold a Christmas tree contests next year!!! :) 

 
We bought those balloons off the street at SFcity. 
Ilona insisted the artist making her a red dog...then I realized she likes Clifford, the big red dog cartoon!! :)

 

Abby got herself the giant pink lotus!!!

I wasn't in a mood of playing style so I simply put on everything seems to work. 

1. Top: 

Orange boss mustard turtleneck

Kate Spade black cropped jacket

2. Bottom:

Max&Co. tweed shorts

3. Accessory:

brown wool tights w/ red links

Chanel pearls w/ rhinestones

4. Shoes: Miu Miu gemstones cracked metallic silver flat

I didn't score anything big after Christmas. Besides, when we arrive in SF city on 26th, it was already 2 PM. My friend, Yu, laughed at me saying that I probably would "pick up some left-over" if I am lucky!! haha... indeed!!! "Left-over"!! 

Finally, it is today's outfit! I am not in a mood of shopping anymore...than my other friend, Isabel, teased me again, she said: "I see, you are saving for spring/summer now."  :P 

Yes, Haute-girl, Christmas still is kids' favorite!!!!

My friend, Sally, came to my house to hang out and she took couple photos for me. 
Finally I had the time and mood to update my blog!! :)

My ODJ. 

 
 Don't we just luuuurve a dress w/ pockets!!

1. Top:

millau (It is safe to say this dress is an inspiration.) nude dress w/ pockets

Plastic Island boyfriend blazer

2. Bottom: polyester leggings

3. Accessory: 

H&M floral scarf

Cartier lucky clover charm on bracelet

Faberge enamel cross necklace
4. Shoes: Christian Louboutin simple pump in nude




Nowadays there are lots of nice tailored clothes made by non-designers (we girls call it A-list copycat). :P

I was searching for a nude dress and then I came across this one in union st. at SF city. I forgot the name of the stores but they sure have so many inspired look of street chic stuff and from A. Wang!!  I definitely should go back and check it out!! :)

What's your new year's resolution?!!!!

Sales Galore!

I got a couple of vouchers as Christmas presents so naturally I trotted on down to the sales as soon as possible. Every shop seemed to have a sale on and in typical 'me' style I ended up getting a load of stuff I didn't REALLY need and none of the stuff I really do need! Why does that always happen???I always get seduced by nice shoes and pretty things! I would normally go for alot of bright colours but I seemed to be in a grey mood today for some reason, but then again, I don't own many grey coloured clothing.

Firstly I got a pale grey embellished vest top from Oasis with some gorgeous detailing around the neck. It's a really comfy top that would glam up jeans and a blazer... I love the beading detail...

Ever since Zara came to Aberdeen, I have had my eye on their shoes and bags as they have some really nice details that I haven't seen anywhere else. I spotted these black suede shoes with gold 'snake' chain metal detail at the front.

These have a slight platform, just the way I like my shoes, this makes them that bit more comfortable to wear. Here's a closer look at the detailing on the front...

I also got another dress from Oasis that is very much in the 'glam sporty' category. I intend to wear this pale grey silk dress with leggings for daytime and glam it up with shoe boots or platform shoes for night time. You can wear this dress with or without the straps and it comes about 2 inches above the knee.

This next dress has to be my favourite item of the whole shopping trip, it's a heavily embellished dress from Monsoon. This gunmetal grey minidress is quite heavy so it feels really luxe, sits about 3 inches above the knee and is just really gorgeous on. It hangs perfectly and is really flattering, it's just fitted enough to show your shape but loose enough to be super comfortable. I can't wait to wear this at New Year with shoe boots or killer platform stilettos. I got this dress for half price at £47.50 and it's worth every penny!

I have a couple of other limited edition dresses from Monsoon and they have lasted me for about 4 or 5 years and I expect this one will last me a long time too. They are very well made and tend to be the type of design that transcends past the next few seasons. Here's a closer look at the beautiful detail on the dress...

Lastly, I picked up another 100% one shouldered silk dress from Monsoon in a beautiful raspberry pink/red colour. It's quite a short dress, with gorgeous frill detail down the right hand side of the dress. I mainly picked this for the colour as I don't have anything else like this. I can't wait to wear it with the black heels above and my black sequin blazer!

So did you guys pick up any bargains in the Christmas sales???

Stefania Fernandez, Miss Universe 2009: Red Carpet Fashion Year In Review

Universal Fashion Doll:

If you've been keeping up with the Pageant World (and I have of course!) you might remember that early this year, in the Bahamas Atlantis Resort, 19 year old Stefania Fernandez was crowned Miss Universe 2009. This was the second year in a row a woman from that country (where I was raised by the way) had won the coveted crown. She has since made many appearances, representing the Miss Universe Organization and on behalf of AIDS, a cause which the Donald Trump-owned organization supports. She's also been "out-and-about" at parties, events and many a fashion week shows. Stefania has become a little "fashion plate" in her own right. The Miss Universe Organization has their own stylist who works with their title holders providing designs to best "market" their girls in the public eye. Some are from the sponsors of the pageant and some are from the designers whose show she is attending (if it's during Fashion Week). Then after that, I'm sure the stylist goes shopping or may get dresses from various stores and designers from all over.

Here is my 2009 Year-In-Fashion-Review of Stefania Fernandez, Miss Universe '09...Some Good...
Monochromatic Queen: Here is Stefania in one of her most recent red carpet appearances, where she debuted her new above-the-shoulder hairstyle. I think she looks modern, fresh and less of the typical "Pageant Betty", more model-like/TV host. The monochromatic look works on her with the black dress layered over black stockings. I'm sure her Latino base of fans may not like the somberness and expect more brighter hues, but to me, she looks modern.
Best Dressed: Here-- at the recent Latin Grammys this month in Las Vegas-- she is in one of my favorite looks. The sand-colored shirred one-shoulder mini-dress looks fantastic. Her asymmetrical hair-bun compliments the overall look as well. The shoulder copper detail adds just the right amount of "bling". Trust me, looking at some of the crazy dresses our Latina sisters wore to the Latin Grammys, Stefania looked AMAZING!!!!Miss Spartacus: Another favorite is this black Grecian-inspired dress, which she wore to the Toni Maticevski NY Fashion Week Show. I am LIVING for the serious DIVA you-can't-touch-me look!Clean and Simple: Here she is at the Narciso Rodriguez NY Fashion Show in a pretty midnight blue fitted dress. She looks good, but I might have done without the pageant-esque Diamante earrings--not necessary for a dress with such clean lines. Fun and Flirty: At another NY Fashion Week event, she looked young and flirty in this ruffled charmeuse number. Cute and young--after all the girl is still only 19!!! I like it.After-Five Dept: And last, I'm on the fence on this violet ruched satin dress. It's very I-bought-it-at-the-"After-Five"-section-at-Macy's. Nothing against that section. But maybe for Miss Universe, you want to strive for "Milan" and not Going-to-a-wedding-in-Woodland Hills, California.

And the Maybe-Not's:Handkerchief No-No: When I saw this photo of the gorgeous Stefania, I went "Oh Dear!". She's at the Custo Barcelona NY Fashion Week Show, and I can only surmise that she's wearing Custo naturally. Another designer friend of mine said that she looked like one of the "Real Housewives from Orange County". And I kind of agree.Stefania and Designer Zang Toi: Zang Toi has provided many a dress or gown for past Miss Universes. Here she is with the designer posing the day of his NY Fashion Week Show. Toi is known for some over-the-top concoctions that border on top-of-a-wedding-cake so for him, the ensemble she was wearing was quite subdued. Maybe too much so. The black 3/4 coat and lace dress aged her. Leave that to her mother. Lace Overkill: Finally, Stefania made an appearance at a Mary McFadden Tribute Cocktail Reception this September at the Hotel Gansevoort where she wore a high-necked lace overlay dress. I actually like the high-neck style of the dress and the hair is perfect. Part of me wishes I had a pair of scissors to cut about 12 inches from the lace so it would match the inner lining hem.

Overall, the year was a fashion success for the newly crowned Miss Universe. So here's to a fashionable 2010 for the gorgeous Stefania! Buen provecho mi amor!

Update:
Here is video of Stefania's haircut and how the decision was made! Do you like the new style?!

Nick Verreos Unveils The Victory Project!!!!

V is for VICTORY...

I am so proud to announce a new venture that I am really excited about: The Victory Project. The Victory Project is an MSN-exclusive show co-sponsored by Special K , where twelve women are going to transform their bodies for a very special moment in their lives--whether it be an interview, a momentous anniversary, a special birthday, or a new job--for the new year.
Victory Project Glam Squad: Chantal Moore, Nick Verreos, Kacy Duke and Katherine Brooking

To guide, mentor and inspire them through their transformation, The Victory Project Show will have four experts, handpicked for specific goals. Kacy Duke will be their fitness guru helping lose some weight and tone their bodies through training and lots of cardio (I might need to give her a call after the Holidays!); Katherine Brooking will assist them with nutrition and how to stay away from Fettuccine Alfredo (I can't!); Chantal Moore will make them even more beautiful (than they already are) with her make-up expertise and I, well, I have been chosen to be their "Style Guru".
Drama Queen: Nick Verreos recording some Victory Project voice overs

I will be their best style friend, their personal shopper and "Ego Booster" all rolled up into one.
We will travel to three US cities and find four women in each city who are looking for a makeover for their special event. Our first city will be one of my favorite cities in the US: Seattle, Washington.
Project Red Dress Runway: Nick Verreos striking a pose, Macy's Seattle Project Red Dress '09

In the past three years, I have judged and/or hosted half a dozen fashion shows and events in Seattle, including the Macy's Project Red Dress Benefit Gala Fashion Show as well as several for the International Academy of Design and Technology.
My Girls: Nick Verreos with two of the Seattle ladies, Heather Teegarden and Rebecca Miller

I love the Emerald City and I will be there the second week of January (that's in two weeks!) to help transform the "Seattle Four" from Drab to Fab, as they say! They have been working their little butts off getting in shape, eating better and working out so now I will show them how to look more fabulous in their new Victorious bodies!

If you are interested in being part of The Victory Project Show, click HERE for more information. Maybe you might be chosen as one of our "Victory Ladies" in one of the cities we will travel across the USA and get a chance for a new body, a new healthy diet and a new fashionable and stylish you (via yours truly!).

Click Below for a "Sneak Peek" Video of MSN and Special K's The Victory Project Show: