Marissa Elman | Fashion & Photography

Marissa Elman is a lifelong lover of fashion and photography.

Fashion Trends of the 2010s

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Just like any other decade, the 2010s were full of many different fashions that make it unique to all others. To many of us, the 2010s seemed to have flown by. Here are some fashions from the 2010s.

 

Hipster Fashions

Hipster fashions took this decade by storm. “Vintage” clothing became all the rage as trendy, thrift-style stores popped up in urban areas. Mismatched clothing articles became a trend, and there were retro themes where people dressed in the fashions of previous time periods. In some places, it wasn’t completely unusual to see a guy dressed like someone in the 1920s. The 1980s, especially, was glorified in fashion. Music and clothing from that time period made a huge come back. The idea that clothing had to be stylish or hip was challenged, and more people felt comfortable sporting awkward, unique outfits.

 

Spike Heels

Spike heels were all the rage as teenagers and young women wore them to all kinds of special events. Whether it was a graduation or a night out, you would see people break out the six-inch heels.

 

Leggings

Leggings were especially big in the 2010s. They came in many different colors and prints, though the most common types of leggings worn were back. Wherever you went, you would see girls and women of all ages sport the skin-tight bottoms. People would dress their baby daughters, as well as themselves, in leggings. Even in the winter, people would commonly wear them even though a majority of leggings were relatively thin. Fortunately, “thermal” leggings were produced to provide people with more warmth in the winter.

 

Beards and Mustaches

Of course, in the 2010s, beards and mustaches still had bad stigmas among large swathes of people. However, they became popular among a certain subset of the population—particularly among people thrown into the “hipster” category. People grew long, thick beards and mustaches. There were even some men who styled their mustaches in eccentric ways.

 

These are just a few of the fashions that were unique to the 2010s. Beards and mustaches became popular among a certain subset of the population, despite retaining their negative stigmas among others. Females of all ages wore leggings, even in the cold. Young women wore tall heels to special events. Hipster fashions took the world by storm. Other trends like high-top sneakers and athleisure clothing also emerged and gained popularity among the general population.

The 90s Fashion Revival Today

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One quick scroll on Instagram and it’s clear that the 90’s are back in a big way. While most would cringe at the reemergence of 90s trends and perhaps flashbacks of their own fashion snafus; its safe to say that there are trends worth rocking. Crop tops and mini skirts once made popular by Cher and her gang of friends in “Clueless” are making their rounds on the scene again. Track suits have also made their way back into the fashion circuit, with both men and women sporting them. Vintage graphic t-shirts and basketball jerseys from the 90s are also in heavy rotation on the streets and on social media.

 

Cosmetic brands, such as Kim Kardashian’s KKW Beauty, are also flashing back to the past with the release of 90s inspired makeup collections. Makeup trends that are popping up again are clear glass lip glosses, matte eyeshadows, thicker eyebrows, glitter, and lip liner. Accessories like tiny hand bags, charm earrings and necklaces, bucket hats and the ever popular Kangol hat are also making their comeback. The uber cool skater look has also been making a comeback these days. Chokers which were once very popular in the 90s are made new again. Whether a diamond, velvet or plastic choker, this accessory has become a favorite amongst teens and millennials alike.

 

Vans and Converse shoes are classic staples favored by many skaters and skate fans alike. Other 90s trends seen in footwear are platform shoes and combat boots. Doc Martens, which were very popular in the 90s have regained popularity with the rise of the 90s grunge look. Denim inspired by the 90s has also made a big comeback, with vintage retailers stocking classic Levis 501s. Mom jeans, which are characteristic of a higher waist and straight silhouette, are very popular and can be dressed up or down.

 

Overalls have come back in a big way and show no signs of disappearing anytime soon. Whether shorts or full overalls, these tried and true blues are unisex and can be styled a number of ways. Denim jackets are also on the scene again. Whether cropped, studded, patched up or plain, a denim jacket is 90s accessory that seems to be more of a staple than a trend. The grunge look is also making its rounds again with the help of flannel shirts, loose jeans and mini skirts.

5 Iconic Fashion Designers

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The fascination with fashion has been around for centuries. When Cleopatra reigned, she was considered a fashion icon, as was Marie Antoinette, and in more modern times Duchesses Kate and Megan, but the real stars are the designers behind the fashions and their incredible talent that melds fashion into art. Here are five of the most iconic designers.

 

Coco Chanel

The name is synonymous with fashion, and even those who don’t follow fashion recognize the name. Coco Chanel created styles still used by the fashion house today, including the quilted bag and tweed suit. She is also responsible for creating one of the most Famous perfumes of all time, Chanel No. 5, used by icons such as Marilyn Monroe.

 

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen’s designs can be recognized even without a logo. There is a thin line between fashion and art in his designs. His shows were just as complex, sometimes even shocking, but always memorable in their theatrical displays. His collections had a clear theme and story. His designs featuring skulls are some of his most popular and beloved.

 

Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent began as an apprentice to the famed Christian Dior. Yves Saint Laurent blended art and fashion with his Mondrian collection, featuring striped color-blocked dresses that became famous in the 1960s. He also made created the Le Smoking suit. a menswear-inspired suit tailored for women. Today, his fashion house is still considered the epitome of style.

 

Oscar De La Renta

Famed for his feminine, elegant designs that have been worn by a myriad of celebrities, royals and dignitaries. His fame catapulted in the 1960s when he dressed Jacqueline Kennedy. He would go on to design several more dresses for the First Ladies of the United States. In 2014 he designed Amal Clooney’s French lace wedding gown.

 

Diane Von Furstenberg

Diane Von Furstenberg rose to fame after she married a German Prince, but she is now most known for changing dresses forever with her iconic jersey wrap dress design. She has always understood that women want flattering clothes that make them feel powerful. The wrap dress remains popular today and is the one item heralded time and time again as the article a woman must have in her wardrobe.

History of the Birkin Bag

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Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, Alessandra Ambrosio, Kim Kardashian West and Sofia Vergara are just a few of the many celebrities who have been photographed carrying beautiful Birkin bags.

The iconic handbag is defined by its glamorous but humble beginnings when model Jane Birkin and Hermès chief executive Jean-Louis Dumas met by chance on an airplane ready for departure. The year was 1981, and Ms. Birkin’s overstuffed straw bag tumbled out of the overhead compartment spilling its contents on top of her.

Mr. Dumas saw it all and became inspired to “build” a better bag for women everywhere. In 1984, the stylish, practical, rectangular Hermès Birkin bag debuted at $2,000, and it was ideal for traveling, chic and came with plenty of room for storage. Word has it that the model drew her idea of the perfect handbag on a disposable airplane sickness bag for the designer.

Today, the Birkin bag is a wise and elegant investment for fashionable women. The handbag is a classic that gains in value each passing year. For example, Christie’s Auction in Hong Kong sold the most pricey handbag ever. The winning bid brought in a colossal $379,261 for the brand’s Himalayan bag.

Over the years, Hermès bags have been associated with the popular girls of society like actress Grace Kelly. That sophisticated handbag from the Hermès collection was nicknamed the Kelly because the former Monaco princess carried it everywhere. It achieved instant status due to Grace Kelly’s celebrity.

The Birkin bag, however, is constructed with a unique anatomy that gives it a spectacular following. The Birkin resembles a tote and comes with classy features like a lock and key to ensure all contents remain inside the bag. The design also enables the handbag to stand up on its own with four feet or clou at the bottom of the bag.

The Birkin bag provides a clouchette or leather cover for keys, and on the inside of the bag is one open pocket and a zipped pocket.

These days, Birkin bags aren’t cheap; they range in retail price from $11,900-$150,000 and come in a choice of gorgeous colors and six types of leather. Resale prices can reach up to $230,000 for one.

The Birkin bag has undeniable sex appeal and never gets old.

10 of the Latest Photography Gadgets

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The latest innovations in photography showcase gadgets that span a wide range of useful applications, which includes both complex and simple functionality.

1. Datacolor SpyderCube

This handy addition to any photographer’s kit works by being the single point of reference for light balance within the frame of any shot, which saves post-processing steps later.

2. Tinxi Hot Shoe Two Axis Bubble Spirit Level

Rather than eye-balling whether or not a picture’s frame aligns with the chosen horizon, photographers can instantly see when their camera’s position is level for the perfect shot the first time.

3. Joby GorillaPod Hybrid Tripod for Compact System Cameras with Integrated Ballhead

Shoots that require creative angles in hard-to-reach places, the bendable and jointed legs on this tripod can give a photographer a lot of flexibility in pursuit of the perfect shot.

4. Rogue FlashBender 2 Portable Lighting Kit

With so many modification options for flashgun attachments in this kit, photographers can experiment and play with lighting effects in countless new and interesting ways.

5. Hahnel UniPal Extra

Camera accessories that serve dual-purposes like this are a photographer’s best friend, especially when it charges a battery and operates as a power bank, too.

6. Lastolite by Manfrotto Joe Mcnally Ezybox Speed-lite 2 Plus

The portable versatility of this miniature softbox, which can be used as an attachment or as a standalone, opens up the possibilities for portrait photographers who work outside of a studio.

7. Lensbaby Spark

The build on this lens lets the photographer quickly and easily choose the angle of their soft-focus shot without having to adjust minute details each time they shift the perspective.

8. Rode VideoMic Pro R

While a built-in microphone comes standard with many DSLR cameras, serious professionals know that a mounted and shockproof mic like this is the only way to get the best quality audio possible.

9. NG Mediterranean Camera Tote Bag

A tote that doesn’t advertise it carries a bunch of expensive camera equipment is the photographer’s best friend while they’re on location for shoots in busy areas or traveling with a compact kit.

10. Transcend 2TB USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive

Modern storage options need to maximize their internal space and minimize their external vulnerability, which makes this a great choice for photographers who need a durable and expansive hard drive.

Fashion Icons in History

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Fashion Icons in History

There has always been an interest in what everyone around you is wearing, especially the elite – the celebrities, the movie stars, royalty. We look to them for inspiration and can still spot their influence, decades later.

 

Here are a few big names that just might sound familiar, and the fashion influence they brought to the table:

 

Grace Kelly

To say Grace Kelly influenced fashion is equivalent to saying Leonardo da Vinci painted a few pictures. This actress-turned-princess was one of the first in Hollywood to really  develop her own “signature style” and became well-known for her uncluttered, clean-cut look. She appreciated simplicity and elegance and was a firm believer in wearing pieces you love more than once, which is why she has been photographed wearing the same dress at multiple events. Almost unheard of in the entertainment industry!

 

Grace Kelly is also one of the first to inspire fashion houses – does the Hermes Kelly bag sound familiar? That’s because it was designed for Grace herself. When she married into Monaco’s royal family, she continued to play by her own rules and set trends each and every day.

 

Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn is another style icon known for her clean lines and crisp look, and if you’re still not entirely sure why, maybe the words “Little Black Dress” will jog your memory. That’s right – we have Audrey Hepburn to thank for making the idea of a versatile little black dress fashionable again, even decades later after Coco Chanel initially introduced the idea. Audrey made the look fresh again, and as evident in Breakfast At Tiffany’s, the public really took to it. That, and her infamous black capris.

 

While many of her outfits had the look of men’s fashion, there was no doubt of her femininity even during a period where bold patterns and wide skirts were the norms. Audrey kept her look clean and simple, and many still emulate her today.

 

Madonna

Everyone knows Madonna, and unlike Grace or Audrey, it’s not because she kept her outfits simple. She changed the pop music game starting in the 1980s, and it’s never been the same since, and neither has fashion. Her outfits have spanned styles from punk, western, androgynous, military, even geisha and a touch of S&M, and no one really knows what she’s going to wear next, even now. Her outfits often reflected the tone of her music – for “Material Girls,” Madonna channeled her inner Marilyn Monroe. For “Vogue,” she drew from Horst P. Horst’s famous 1939 photograph. Her influence is alive and well today, too. If it weren’t for Madonna, who knows if crop tops would have taken off nearly to the extent that they have?

 

Whatever Madonna was wearing, people were taking note. Whether that meant a cone-shaped bra and pink corset, or simply befriending and wearing a new designer, all eyes were on Madonna for the next trend.

Subscription Boxes: Getting Fashion in the Mail

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subscription boxes - marissa elman

 

If you’re into fashion but your schedule is too busy and doesn’t allow you hours each month to shop for clothes, a subscription box could be a great solution.

 

Gwynnie Bee

 

This subscription service offers sizes 10 to 32 and allows their members to have a lot of control in what gets delivered to their door, but also has an element of surprise because you never know what you’ll find on the site! Create an account and search through their inventory, adding individual pieces to your online closet that catch your eye. Once the items arrive on your doorstep, you can choose to send them back if they don’t appeal to you, buy them outright if you absolutely have to have it, or you can even choose to wear them a couple of times and return them later.

 

Stitch Fix

 

If you’re looking to expand your wardrobe with pieces you may never think to add, Stitch Fix is an excellent choice. First make an account and fill out your sizing information and personal preferences when it comes to clothing, and one of their personal stylists will put together a small collection and send it to you. The styling fee is $20, but shipping is free. Once you receive your subscription box, you can choose to keep the items and pay the cost for each, or send them back for free.

 

Fabletics

 

Keep yourself motivated to stay in shape by signing up for a Fabletics membership. This is a monthly subscription service that delivers workout outfits to your door. The styles are released every month and you can pick an outfit you love so you can showcase it the next time you hit the gym.

 

The Rachel Zoe Box of Style

 

If you don’t want to get clothing in the mail but still want a great subscription service, check out Rachel Zoe’s service. The Rachel Zoe Box of Style is delivered once each quarter, costing $100 and contains several high-quality items based on the upcoming season.

Microblading: Things to Know Before Making the Appointment

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marissa elman

 

The practice of microblading has become the latest brow craze in the efforts to achieve thicker, fuller and more beautiful brows. Brow tinting seems like a thing of the past, as many are now opting for the semi-permanent, effortless brows applied by licensed cosmetic tattoo artists. For those thinking brow microblading could be the solution for thin, sparse brows, here are some important things to consider before making the appointment.

 

Microblading is essentially a form of cosmetic tattooing:

 

Unlike a typical tattoo, microblading is done with a handheld tool instead of a machine. As it is still applied with a needle, depending on the pain threshold of the client, a very minimal amount of discomfort should be expected. The treatment can also take up to two hours to complete.

 

The pigment is bladed in tiny, hair-like strokes to resemble natural brow hairs. This form of tattooing is not implanted as deep within the skin as a regular tattoo would be, so the pigment will naturally fade over 18-24 months.

 

Take proper care and precautions before appointment:

  • Stop all use and consumption of blood-thinners, chemical peels and retinol a full week before the scheduled treatment
  • Do not wax, tan or overexpose skin to sun for at least three days prior to appointment
  • Skip the coffee and other caffeinated drinks on the day of the appointment 

After-treatment care is just as important:

  • Protect brows from water and moisture prior to treatment—avoid sweating and washing face with water
  • Take care to avoid any situation that might infect the freshly bladed skin with dirt, bacteria or other debris
  • Vaseline or aftercare ointment may be applied to calm itchiness and redness, but do not scratch, touch or irritate treated area as it heals
  • Similar to a regular tattoo, bladed brows may fade in prolonged exposure to the sun—after brows have healed, be sure to apply sunscreen when outdoors

 

Remember, microblading requires maintenance:

A follow-up appointment is recommended 4-6 weeks after the first blading, where the technician will touch up any hairs and adjust coloring. To keep brows looking flawless, touch-ups are required about every six months.

 

With first-time treatment costs that can cost up to $900, it is important to understand that the microblading process is a long-term investment that will require consistent upkeep.

 

Sources:

http://info.gotbeauty.com/blog/all-the-microblading-information-youll-ever-need

http://www.elle.com/beauty/a37438/semi-permanent-eyebrow-microblading/

 

Want Free Makeup? Sign Up For These Rewards Programs

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Want Free Makeup- Sign Up For These Rewards Programs

Beauty products are very well known for coming in small packages with large price tags. With that in mind, like most people you probably would love any rewards program that can alleviate some of that financial burden. These programs offer many perks which include free products after a period of time. Take a look of some of the beauty store rewards programs you might want to sign up for.

 
Sephora: Sephora’s Beauty Insider

Sephora is one of the most popular beauty stores, and they have a wonderful multi-leveled rewards program that benefits its’ customers’ spending. At Level one requires a small amount of purchasing to reach and it rewards you with a free birthday gift and beauty classes that teach things about makeup and other beauty topics. As you continue up the levels such as VIB and VIB Rogue you will be able to enjoy perks such as free and exclusive gifts, seasonal discounts, promo codes, and one free custom makeover. Along with that, you can also expect to receive free two-day shipping, a private hotline to answer all your beauty questions, and invitations to private parties and product launches.

 

M.A.C: M.A.C Select (Back to M.A.C)

M.A.C is another popular store with a great program that has numerous benefits that are beyond the basic free shipping, free samples, and anniversary gift. They also have the Back to M.A.C program where you receive a free lipstick, or eyeshadow, or gloss if you join the M.A.C Select program by returning original packaging for six M.A.C products to your local store. Other rewards include a free 30-minute makeup application, first glimpse at new collections, and free two-day shipping on orders of $50 and more when you spend $150 within the year. Now if you decide to go all in and spend $500 in a year, you will receive two 60-minute makeup applications, early access to new collections, and an even better anniversary gift.

 

Ulta: Ulta’s Ultimate Rewards

Ulta’s Ultimate Rewards program has a great points system that allows you to be rewarded for each dollar your spend. For every dollar spent, whether in-store or online, you receive a point. These points can be saved and redeemed for virtually any product in the store. You will also receive email offers where you can earn the double, triple, and even quadruple the amounts of points you would normally earn. During your birthday month, you can earn double the points when you make a purchase as well as a free birthday gift. Also when you spend $450 in a year, you can go up to the Platinum level where you will earn 1.25 expiration proof points, along with a ten dollar coupon to go with your free birthday present.

 

Sally Beauty: Sally Beauty Club

This one might seem a bit unpopular as unlike most other beauty rewards programs which are free, Sally Beauty’s Sally Beauty Club has a five dollar fee. However, the upside to that is that as soon as you sign up, they spot you with five dollars, so it’s almost like signing up for free. They also offer many great perks such as a fifteen percent discount when you spend $25 in a month.