Lace & Pearls

A Seattle Style blog. Helping women who struggle with their personal style or those who just need a fashion fix!

4 Setting Powders that Work聽

I have always had oily skin and have trouble keeping my makeup in place, which is why I'm so obsessed with having a shine-free complexion. Having a good skincare regime helps a lot, but a great finishing powder is what can really make a difference.In junior high, a boy asked me why I was sweating after looking at my face, but I wasn’t sweating, my skin was just oily. I was mortified! I have always had oily skin and have trouble keeping my makeup in place, which is why I’m so obsessed with having a shine-free complexion. Having a good skincare regime helps a lot, but a great finishing powder is what can really make a difference. I know that when I get older I will appreciate my oily skin, but for now I still like to use products that keep my skin matte.

If you are looking for a way to make your makeup appear flawless or you struggle to keep your makeup in place, this is the post for you!

4 Setting Powders that Work

  1. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder: I recently tried this powder via Influenster. It’s one of the first translucent medium deep setting聽powders for dark skin. My first thought was, it’s a translucent powder why the heck does it need to be brown! I have to admit, though, having a powder that matches my skin does make it easier to blend and not have to worry about residue. This powder is long wearing and keeps my makeup matte. It also comes in the standard Natural Finish for all skin tones.
  2. Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Setting Powder. This was the first finishing powder that I tried. It is amazing! It absorbs oil, mattifies the skin, and minimizes the appearance of pores. It comes in a compact and loose powder option. I prefer the compact (less mess).
  3. Pixi Quick Fix Powder. The Pixi powder is an inexpensive alternate to the Tarte powder and provides a flawless matte finish. I really can’t tell the difference between the two, and for $12 dollars less, it’s a great choice. If you want to learn more about other Pixi products check out: Capture Your Natural Beauty With Pixi by Petra, The No Makeup Look with Pixi by Petra, and Bedtime Ritual with Pixi Beauty.
  4. Est茅e Lauder Perfecting Loose Powder: I am a huge fan of Est茅e Lauder’s Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation in addition to the Double Wear powder so I decided to try their translucent powder. It does control shine and helps minimize imperfections, but for the price, I feel the aforementioned brands are a better option.

What setting powder do you recommend? Let me know in the comments.

馃摲鈥檚 by Luba Kochubey Portraits

The Best Denim Brands I’ve Found So Far

I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage, but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. I remember when premium denim was all the rage (e.g., 7 For All Mankind and Citizens of Humanity), but now I feel like you can wear whatever you want, with the exception that they must be flattering. In order to help you navigate through the difficult task of finding great denim, I have compiled a list of my favorites.

The Best Denim Brands I’ve Found So Far

AG denim. Denim at its finest! Perfectly distressed and aged to perfection.

I can still remember my first pair of AGs. They were a distressed pair of boyfriend jeans that I wore so much the holes became too large and were no longer acceptable to be seen in public.

Another style that I liked was The Stilt Cigarette聽Leg jean, a traditional straight-legged jean. I wore this style for several years before the skinny came around. I was obsessed! The only reason I started to look for other options was because the leg opening was a little too large when I tried to roll them the way I wanted.

I eventually replaced my聽Stilts with The Legging Super Skinny. If you’re on the lookout for a great pair of distressed denim, this is the only pair you need. They are super soft and don’t stretch out. The holes also hit me at the knee instead of above or below like some others do.

A pair of AGs will set you back but are worth every penny. I recommend putting away some cash for these ones – you will not be disappointed!

J.Crew Toothpick. I’ve always been a big fan of the toothpick jean. The cut is fitted through the hips and thigh with a super skinny leg. I have large calves so the leg can be a little tight at first but not unbearably so. The inseam is my favorite; it鈥檚 very Audrey Hepburn-like with a cropped ankle. This style also comes in a variety of colors and prints, not just the standard blue denim wash.

Loft Modern Skinny聽(super cute聽distressed pair). This jean might be my absolute favorite and is affordable too, especially with Loft鈥檚 weekly promotions! The quality is a little lacking though and I’ve worn through a lot of pairs. I usually wear them out in the thigh, but will admit that I’m grabbing for these multiple times a week. They come in a lot of great colors and are great for work.

Runners Up

  • Banana Republic: cute styles with a moderate price point.
  • Gap: love their skinny denim but they do stretch out.
  • Madewell: their skinny fits similar to J.Crew, but I still like J.Crew’s better. They also have a hint of stretch and are longer in length.
  • Old Navy: the Rockstar is awesome and super affordable but does fade quickly in the wash and the material is very thin.

Fashion Tip: another great place to find denim is at your local thrift store. They usually have a large variety of gently used denim at a great price point.

What are your favorite denim brands?

Sweater: Marshalls聽(similar) | Jeans: Jag c/o (similar) | Earrings: Ann Taylor (similar) | Bracelet: J.Crew (similar) | Ring: Madewell | Purse: Old Navy (similar) | Shoes: Paul Green | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink)

馃摲鈥檚 by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Up-and-Coming Designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry + A Giveaway

This gorgeous necklace is by Brooklyn, NY designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry. Monifa, designer and owner, launched her debut line on April 1st. This gorgeous necklace is by Brooklyn, NY designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry. Monifa, designer and owner, launched her debut line on April 1st. This gorgeous necklace is by Brooklyn, NY designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry. Monifa, designer and owner, launched her debut line on April 1st. The color blush is big for spring and I absolutely love it. Along with my blush crush is my never-ending obsession with jewelry, so when these two collide, it’s as though the stars have truly aligned for me. This gorgeous necklace is by Brooklyn, NY designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry. Monifa, designer and owner, launched her debut line on April 1st. Be sure to check out her site and Instagram and say hello!

Monifa Kincaid Jewelry takes inspiration from geometric patterns in architectural design. Her pieces are made to order with the option to choose argentium sterling silver or 14-karat gold-filled metal. She also uses semi-precious stones to accent her designs.

This gorgeous necklace is by Brooklyn, NY designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry. Monifa, designer and owner, launched her debut line on April 1st.

Monifa Kincaid Jewelry

I am wearing the Claire necklace which is also available as an earring. I fell in love with this piece right off the bat! I really like the juxtaposition of the minimalist design with the rose-colored stones. This will definitely be a piece that I wear often.

I love how this outfit complimented the necklace so well. I am a big fan of this blush faux leather jacket; I鈥檝e been on the hunt for one since last fall and finally found the perfect option at Marshalls. The ruffle blouse balances out the texture of the jacket and the gray denim is perfect for spring. I have a feeling you will be seeing these jeans quite a bit this season. I am guilty of wearing them on a weekly basis.

This gorgeous necklace is by Brooklyn, NY designer Monifa Kincaid Jewelry. Monifa, designer and owner, launched her debut line on April 1st.

Now for the fun part – the giveaway! Monifa is graciously giving away the Claire necklace to one Lace & Pearls reader (US readers only). To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter below. The giveaway ends on 5/9 and the winner will be notified via email. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to check out Monifa Kincaid Jewelry and sign up for her email list to receive 10% off your order. The code is valid until May 15th.

Thank you Monifa Kincaid Jewelry for sponsoring this post and gifting me this necklace. All opinions are my own.

Jacket: Marshall c/o (similar)| Blouse: Nordstrom (similar) | Denim: J.Crew | Necklace:聽Monifa Kincaid Jewelry聽c/o | Pure: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Flats: Jessica Simpson (similar) | Lipstick: Lanc么me Matte Shaker Lipstick c/o

馃摲鈥檚 by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Wardrobe Building Blocks: Your Guide to a Cohesive Closet

Have you ever considered starting over with your wardrobe? Use these wardrobe building blocks to revamp your closet and start fresh!
Have you ever considered starting over with your wardrobe? Use these wardrobe building blocks to revamp your closet and start fresh! Have you ever considered starting over with your wardrobe? Use these wardrobe building blocks to revamp your closet and start fresh!Have you ever considered starting over with your wardrobe? Use these wardrobe building blocks to revamp your closet and start fresh!Have you ever considered starting over with your wardrobe? What would you change? Would you reinvent yourself or stick with the classics?聽Blank slate or not, you can always choose to revamp your wardrobe. Consider doing an assessment and figuring out your personal style. Then, fashion your closet with these wardrobe building blocks.

Wardrobe Building Blocks: The Basics

  1. Classic tee: A simple t-shirt can go a long way. On days that I struggle deciding what to wear, I grab a simple tee, a statement necklace, and a sweater. Tees are also great for wearing with skirts, under a blazer, or with your favorite pair of denim.
  2. Blouse: A blouse is my go-to for looking put together, even on my most casual days. What I like most about blouses is that they are super forgiving, especially those that are silk or chiffon. Even ones that are made with polyester hang so much better than cotton. I have a full chest and midsection and I don’t like to wear anything that is fitted through the waist. A blouse is great for covering flaws. Plus, it goes with everything!
  3. Jeans: A good pair of jeans will be your best accessory. At the same time, a good pair of jeans doesn’t have to be super expensive. I encourage you to check out different retailers and find a brand and/or style that works for you. I鈥檝e found that my favorites are AG, Loft’s Modern Skinny, and J.Crew’s Toothpick.
  4. Pants: Depending on your lifestyle, I recommend having several pairs of pants. They are great for work or for days you want to look more polished. My favorite pant is the Winnie from J.Crew Factory. I have them in 5 colors and they are incredibly comfortable.
  5. Dresses and skirts: Dresses and skirts are great for the office and even better for special occasions. You never know when you’ll need a dress. Take my advice and have several dresses in your closet that can work for most occasions. I hate when you have something come up and you don’t have the right dress so you go to every retailer imaginable only to end up settling for something mediocre.

Wardrobe Building Blocks: The Essentials

  1. Coats: I used to be a coat-a-holic. I had more coats than I could count! I love them so much and when you live in a climate like Seattle, they seriously are a must-have. I recommend having a dark coat and a light coat. I have a black and white coat and a solid camel colored coat so depending on what I’m wearing that day, I can choose one over the other.
  2. Jackets: When the weather is nice, have a couple of lightweight jacket options. There is nothing worse than getting your outfit just right and not having the right jacket to go with it.
  3. Shoes: Have a wide variety of shoes. I recommend having at least two of each type, especially if they are comfortable.
  4. Accessories: Whatever your preference, be sure to pick up a couple of accessory options. Figure out what works for you! I love jewelry, but not everyone does. If you’re more of a scarf person, pick up a few in various colors and prints. If your style is more minimal, think about picking up some dainty layering rings or a simple pendant.

After you finish collecting the basics and essentials, I would suggest starting to incorporate some nice wild cards. Pick up a standout dress or an amazing shoe. You deserve it!

Fashion Tip: Having too many options will make it more challenging to get ready so focus on what you really want or need. Also, think about what items give you the best return on investment. Quality pieces will save you more over time.

Here are some other posts to help guide you in developing a cohesive wardrobe.

Sweater: Madewell (similar)| Denim: Madewell | Tee: Nordstrom | Necklace: J.Crew Factory (here’s another cute option) | Bracelet: Pretty Paricular c/o | Booties: Bare Trap (similar) | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) |聽Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Stoplight Red)

馃摲鈥檚 by Luba Kochubey Portraits

Spring Trend: Ruffles + Anguay Designs

What is it about ruffles that make them so desirable? Is it the modern update that is super versatile and less structured? Personally, I can't seem to get enough of the romantic aesthetic. Whatever the reason, ruffles have come full circle and are popping up everywhere.What is it about ruffles that make them so desirable? Is it the modern update that is super versatile and less structured? Personally, I can't seem to get enough of the romantic aesthetic. Whatever the reason, ruffles have come full circle and are popping up everywhere.What is it about ruffles that make them so desirable? Is it the modern update that is super versatile and less structured? Personally, I can't seem to get enough of the romantic aesthetic. Whatever the reason, ruffles have come full circle and are popping up everywhere.What is it about ruffles that make them so desirable? Is it the modern update that is super versatile and less structured? Personally, I can't seem to get enough of the romantic aesthetic. Whatever the reason, ruffles have come full circle and are popping up everywhere.What is it about ruffles that make them so desirable? Is it the modern update that is super versatile and less structured? Personally, I can't seem to get enough of the romantic aesthetic. Whatever the reason, ruffles have come full circle and are popping up everywhere.What is it about ruffles that make them so desirable? Is it the modern update that is super versatile and less structured? Personally, I can’t seem to get enough of the romantic aesthetic. Whatever the reason, ruffles have come full circle and are popping up everywhere.

Before we get into today’s post, here鈥檚 a little history lesson. Did you know that ruffles date back to the 16th century? While you might have guessed they were old, did you know that it was men who wore them? Yep, during the 16th century German soldiers wore uniforms with ruffles very similar to those we see today.

Ruffles – How to Wear?

Since ruffles are a statement all on their own, you don’t need much to accessorize them. Simple is best. Of course, I am big on jewelry so I decided to also go with a statement earring. I did, however, keep everything else minimal (e.g., ballet flats, color block tote).

Fashion tip: Let your ruffles take center stage and wear your hair back in a classic pony or an undone topknot.

Don’t stop there! Ruffles go well beyond tops and sweaters. Now you can find skirts and dresses with this frilly embellishment too. Depending on your body type, a ruffle skirt can do wonders. If you’re narrow in the hips, add some ruffles to give the illusion of curves.

Ruffles – Where to Shop?

I have seen this trend at every retailer: Target, Zara, Nordstrom, to name a few. I picked up this sweet polka dot blouse at J.Crew and also bought it in burgundy. The silk material makes the ruffles very forgiving, especially on a larger chest.

The tote is from Seattle brand Anguay Designs. I’m obsessed with the color blocking and external pocket, plus the lining is super cute. Crystal, the designer of Anguay Designs, is launching her Spring/Summer apparel line called Unlikely on April 24th. For a sneak peek, visit her Instagram and definitely check out her site because this girl is going places. If you see something you like, use code LACEANDPEARLS to receive 15% off your order, discount is valid until 12/31/17.

Blouse: J.Crew (similar) | Jeans: Jag c/o (similar) | Earrings: J.Crew (sold out) | Ring: Madewell聽(on sale)| 聽Tote: Anguay Designs (borrowed) | Shoes: Jessica Simpson (similar) | Lipstick: Wet n Wild (Smokin Hot Pink)

Thank you Anguay Designs for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.

馃摲鈥檚 by Luba Kochubey Portraits

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