By Heather | April 18, 2013



I'm ecstatic to bring you an EXCLUSIVE interview with Minka Kelly's make-up artist, the very talented Matthew VanLeeuwen. VanLeeuwen's statement-making looks are natural and beautiful, making his make-up both red carpet worthy and every day appropriate.

Besides doing Minka Kelly's make-up for the Guys Choice Awards a couple weeks ago, he's also done make-up for Heidi Klum, Eva Longoria, Marissa Tomei, Jennifer Lopez, Scarlett Johansson, Hayden Panettiere, Jessica Alba,Kim Catrall, Katie Holmes, Penelope Cruz, and Taylor Swift...just to name a few. VanLeeuwen is also a regular contributor to publications like Vogue and Harper's Bazaar.

If you have any questions or comments you can now follow Matthew on his Twitter page!

I'm so excited to share this exclusive interview with you, so read on to steal Minka's celebrity look with a step-by-step guide from Matthew VanLeeuwan himself:
"For Minka Kelly's gorgeous red carpet makeup look for The Guys Choice Awards..... it was strong, independent eyes and soft coordinated cheeks and lips that got the attention!  The look is very eye catching without being over the top, and it works amazing on almost everyone. I find men really respond to this beauty template!

Here's how to do it:

I like to begin this look with eyes.  I first clean the brows and enlarge them slightly using Anastasia products.  I used the medium ash brow powder to fill the brow, and I used the ultra thin automatic pencil in brunette to extend the brow and to create a slight edge at the arch for emphasis.  I finished the brow with a bit of Anastasia clear brow gel.

Next I applied a sheer layer of foundation (slightly lighter than Minka's skin) all over the eye area and set with a bit of powder. Using Dior palette #508, I applied the center shade (pale pinky beige) from lashline to crease with a sponge tip applicator (the sponge tip gives better coverage).  Pay special attention to the inner most corners of the eyelids at the lashline. Be thorough!

Next I took the top left shade in the Dior palette (taupey/plum) and, with a teardrop-shaped crease brush, I went back and forth through the entire crease.  I then dipped back in the taupy/plum and went over only the outer half of the crease again to darken, stretch and lift the eye out slightly.  Using the top right highlighter shade, I pressed highlighter into the skin at the arch of the brow with my pointer finger.  I pat it on in a tapping motion ( which makes the highlight more intense), and then blend gently with the finger.  Then using a deep plum eye pencil (MAC Prunella), I lined from lash to lash.  You want a strong line, but not too thick. I finished by smudging a deep plum shadow (MAC Blackberry) over the eye pencil to soften and blend slightly.

I curled the lashes and applied 2 coats of Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara to the top lashes and one coat to the bottom.  I finished the eye with some flirty lashes.  I used a strip (217's) and cut them down a bit. Make sure you let the glue dry for a minute before applying, otherwise the glue goes everywhere (I prefer the dark tone glue).  It has to get tacky before it's ready to go on the lid. Once the strip is on, I pinch the false lash and the natural lash together with my fingers.  It marries them together.

Next I clean any shadow that fell under the eye with some face or eye cream and a sponge.  Now we're ready for foundation.  I used Armani Lasting Silk SPF in 5.75 all over the face with a sponge and then I patted Cle de Peau concealer in beige very lightly under the eye with my pinky finger.  I took Make up For Ever HD cream blush #9 and blended across Minka's smiling cheeks with  a brush....smiling helps the color go where its supposed too.

Next, with a big powder brush I dusted Laura Mercier setting powder (it's amazing!) all over the face and thenwith the same brush dipped into Lancome powder bronzer in Riche 3.  I swept the bronzer from back to front in short strokes from the hairline toward the nose.  Then across the forehead, across the bridge of the nose, temples and under the chin.  (Creates warmth and shape).

Lastly I filled the lips with T Leclerc lipliner pencil in Tendre and then I used Cle du Peau lipstick in T9 to finish.

That's how I did it!  I encourage any women to try their own version of this timeless look.  I know they will get lots of attention!!!"

By Heather | January 15, 2013

I'm ecstatic about two things today. Hart of Dixie, one of my favorite shows on television, is back for its winter season tonight. And in celebration of a new season, I have a very special guest editor for the day. Meredith Markworth-Pollack, costumer for Hart of Dixie, has sent us her Top 10. The CW is lucky to have this talented stylist, and I'm so thankful that the network lent us her style sense for the day. Her picks range from tried and true basics (Madewell leather, J. Crew socks, Zara ankle boots) to gorgeous necessities (Carven dresses, Anthropologie home accents, IRO Jackets). And thinking ahead to Valentine's, there are a host of romantic gifts (a lacy bralet, Rodin oil, La Labo candles, Gillian Steinhardt Jewelry). Enjoy Meredith's Top Ten...and don't forget to watch Hart of Dixie's winter premiere with me tonight!

1. Madewell Transport Rucksack: I love Madewell's leather goods and this classic backpack is great for anyone on the go.

2. Free People Intimates Lace Plunge Underwire: Free People has beautiful, delicate intimates that are well priced and come in a variety of shapes and vibrant colors. They work especially well under sheer blouses.

3. Zara Leopard Ankle Boot: These leopard boots are a personal fave and we've also used them on Rachel Bilson on the show. They also have a great collection of studded boots that are perfect for Holiday functions.

4. Rodin Oil: Rodin Oil is my favorite splurge. And it's worth every penny. Its subtle floral scent is refreshing and it leaves your skin so smooth, especially in the drying winter months.

5. Le Labo Candles- Santal 26: A friend recently gave me all of the different Le Labo scented candles (best present ever, by the way), and they are all equally amazing. Be sure to take advantage of the custom labels they make.

6. Carven Red Velvet Dress: Carven has the party dress down. And they make dresses for a variety of different body types. We've used quite a few on Hart Of Dixie...this red velvet is great for the Holidays.

7. J.Crew Socks Womens Camp Sock: I am always on the hunt for cozy socks and the J.Crew Camp Sock is by far my favorite- for both men and women.

8. Anthropologie Home Pillow: I've recently moved to a new home, and I can't get enough of Anthropologie's home decor. They have a smaller selection in the stores but their website is great. This pillow is a favorite to brighten up a room.

9. Gillian Steinhardt Jewelry Van Halen Necklace: Gillian is a NY based jewelry designer and fellow stylist. Her pieces are bold and original and I've used several different pieces on Rachel Bilson, including the Van Halen necklace. Love!

10: Comme des Garcons x Stephen Jones Perfume: Stephen Jones is a British milliner and he teamed up with Comme des Garcons to create the most lovely fragrance. It has a very nice blend of woodsy and floral hints and comes in a very sexy black bottle, packaged in a mini hat box.

Here are 2 more more bonus items Meredith couldn't leave out!

11: IRO Jacket: IRO reminds me of a French rocker chick, which, let's admit, we would all love to be. Their jackets are knit with details of leather to keep you warm and stylish.

12: BHLDN Hair Accessories: BHLDN is a go-to for Hart Of Dixie and not just for wedding accessories! Their feminine vibe is perfect for all things glittery and gold. I've used this hair pin on Jaime King's character Lemon.

By Heather | December 14, 2012

I'm excited to announce that today's editor is LeAnn Rimes. Her fabulous fashion sense and stunning voice get her noticed wherever she goes, and today she shares her Christmas list. What do you get the girl who has everything? Try a luxury essential: a beautiful set of bakeware, the perfect running socks, a legendary wallet or a firming, plumbing, fresh-face-giving masque. Or go for something that sparkles: a crystal-crusted bracelet, a diamond-studded earring, a flirty gold necklace, or a sparkly tank. What's LeAnn's biggest Christmas wish? "Peace and quiet! That's very fashionable, right?! :)" This is why I love her so much! Read on for all her picks:

1. Lululemon Socks: No slip, perfect grip socks. Endorsed by marathon runners and even non-runners as the ultimate in comfort with their ergonomically designed shape and built-in cushioning. A practical stocking stuffer that will last for miles to come!


2. Diptyque Wood Fire Indoor/Outdoor Candle: Our favorite candle in a rich woodsy smell. This Feu de Bois scent is a rich masculine scent that the special man or woman in your life will appreciate this cozy time of year.


3. Eddie Borgo Rose Gold-plated Crystal Cone Bracelet: Shake things up. This bracelet embraces the rose gold trend while adding the edge to any outfit with its crystal-crusted cones. A true wear-with-all.


4. Jennifer Fisher Mini Rose Gold Pill Earrings with Pave White Diamonds: Give the gift of sparkle. These versatile stud earrings work for any age of fashionista on your gift-giving list. The fun pill shape is not like any stud we've seen, and the white pave diamonds are sure to thrill any sparkle-lover.


5. Sisley Masque Creme A La Rose Noire: Just in time for party season, this Sisley Masque gives your tired winter skin a luminous glow. Promising instant youth, it makes good on its word with a formula that smooths, brightens, and plumps.


6. Christian Louboutin Guerilla Booties: Fierce. Channel your inner superstar with these uber-hot heels. With Louboutin's signature red bottoms, these booties are too-hot-to-trot with their studded detailing and peep toe.


7. Chanel Wallet: "Because my new puppy chewed mine :(" I hope your reason isn't the same as LeAnn's, but no matter what the reason, a Chanel wallet is a forever gift. Whether you give its quilted beauty to yourself or a dear one, you'll have this piece for years to come (barring naughty puppies).


8. Givenchy Rose Gold Shark Tooth Necklace: Just a bite. Givenchy's cheeky shark tooth necklace adds a fearsomely fresh shine to any neckline. Pair with your dressed down jeans and tee or defy the norm and pair with a button-up at work.


9. Full Set of Le Creuset Cookwear: A cozy classic for any kitchen. A winter wedding to attend this December? This makes a stunning, practical gift. Or give it to the homemaker in your group. And if you're hosting dinner this year, give the gift of Le Creuset to yourself!


10. KiK Vintage Gun Fun Bling: This tee was designed by a friend of LeAnn's and she loves it. With fashionable friends in mind, this light, layerable tee is festooned with a hip sparkly gun print and makes a fun, festive present.


11. Agent Provocateur matinee kimono: Breathtaking French lace kimono in an opulent floral design. Loose kimono sleeves, a satin tie belt and beautiful lace edging add a touch of sheer luxury to your nightwear repertoire.