Sneak Attack

Question: Sneakers or Heels? I would normally consider myself more of a "heels girl".  I have acquired quite the collection over the years and would much rather slip on some strappy heels than tennis shoes on most days.  Then, there are days like today.  My day is filled with lots of errands and running around the city--so my sneaks seem very appealing at this point.
I bought my first pair of "sneaker wedges" at Bakers a few years ago and wore them with pretty much any style.  I would pair it with skinnies and a chic blazer, or dressed down with leggings and an oversized sweater.  They're so versatile and comfortable and it seems like many fashionistas have jumped on the sneaker trend as well.

http://www.celebritydb.net

CARE, EVGA, ALMA/AKM-GSI; Ray Tamarra/FilmMagic
I'm loving how different each of their looks are with the sneakers- casual to city-chic.  I love them paired with black leather leggings or a great pair of skinny jeans.  

Michael Kors High Top Sneaker www.michaelkors.com

Ash High Top Wedge Skeaker www.bloomingdales.com

H by Halston High Top www.bakersshoes.com

Air Jordan Retro Sneaker www.nike.com

High Top Nike Wedges www.nordstrom.com

So, what do you think-Yay or nay on the sneaker trend?  Personally, Im on board--Anytime I can have both comfort and fashion count me in. :)

Danni/O, Human Holiday!

"Honey, I'm Home!"

My family is currently working on opening a bread bakery. Everything will be local, organic and so good for you! The wheat is milled on site and because of the amazing quality of it, one slice of bread has all the vitamins you need in a day! Amazing right? Because they wanted everything to be local, organic and as fresh as possible, my mom and I decided to keep bees and harvest the honey for the bread ourselves!

We're in our second season of beekeeping and learning a lot about the amazing things honey can do! Check out some of these brilliant ways to use honey and learn a little bit more about what it can do. You'll be amazed!

1.  Honey as a natural antiseptic - Rub a little on burns, scrapes and cuts to use as a natural and organic Neosporin.

2. Honey in your hair - Put some honey in a jar to keep in your shower. After you shampoo, rub a little honey on your ends. Condition the rest of your hair and rinse out. This will help keep your ends from getting frizzy throughout the day and keep 'em shiny!

3. Honey for a Hangover? - That's right. Honey is riddled with fructose that speeds up the metabolism of alcohol. Put a little on your toast in the morning or scoop a tablespoon in your tea instead of reaching for the ibuprofen bottle.

4. Honey for your skin - With the natural moisturizers in honey, it's perfect for your skin! Rub a little on your dry elbows or make into a face mask. Did I mention honey is great for acne? It helps get rid of the bacteria that can from those pesky blemishes.

Take 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 tablespoons of ground almond and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice for an amazing face mask that will moisturize and help clear you skin!

5. Honey instead of Sugar - Honey and it's natural sweetness is a so great for you! Your body can process it a lot easier than regular sugar and is such a great substitute when you're cooking or baking. For every cup of sugar a recipe calls for, replace it with 3/4 cup of honey.

6. Honey infusions to add a little kick to your meals - Check out some great ways to spice up your honey! The Ginger Lime Honey is great for your tea, or when you're feeling sick and need a little throat soothing. The Hot Pepper Honey is great to add a little zing to your cheese platter, or for a little energy kick in the morning.

GINGER LIME HONEY
1 cup honey
8 slices fresh ginger
2 limes, zest only

1. Bring all ingredients just to a boil in a small saucepan, then reduce heat to low and simmer for five minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let sit for ten minutes. Strain and cool.


HOT PEPPER HONEY
1 cup honey
2 jalapenos, quartered, or 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

1. Combine ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a low simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat, cool, and strain.

Syd/O, Human Holiday!

Let's Hear It For The Boys

There's nothing more comforting than realizing the guy you have a crush on (or man in your life) actually knows how to dress :)  Not saying that most guys are lacking in that department, but its nice to know that your guy has that creative flair and style. Right?
I've style-stalked a few of my favorite looks and fashionable men ranging from Hipster-Chic to Business Babe.

The wonderfully talented men of Fun.  Not only do they sound amazing, but they have that funky/hipster style that any girl can appreciate.  Check out those suspenders!  Jack Antonoff (left) has his own personal staple where he seems to always have brightly colored socks exposed complete with chucks--Love. 

Kanye West.  I mean, he has his own fashion line..of course he has style.  I dont know many people that can make leather pants look surprisingly formal.  Loving the all black and light denim/white combo.

Johnny Depp...In my opinion, his style is amazing.  It's sort of this effortless artist vibe he pulls off amazingly well.  Patchwork jeans, scuffed boots, vest, and scarf?--check and check. 

Scott Disick.  OK, I dont think its allowed to do a post on fashionable men without mentioning "Lord Disick".  The man does know how to dress.  Perfectly tailored suit complete with velvet loafers--I'm sold. 

All of these men are fashionable and seem to have no trouble putting together a stylish look.  These are just a few of my favorites..Honorable mention to Lenny Kravitz, Usher, J.T., and of course Brad Goreski :)  Let me know what you guys think and if you have any personal favorites! 

Danni/O, Human Holiday!

Syd's 4-Step Program for Lazy Sundays and Manic Mondays

This weekend was a blur. We seemed to take everything slowly and casually. Saturday and Sunday were probably the laziest of days, and I realized a few different things in the process.

LOOKING GOOD TAKES 10 MINUTES, A FEW STAPLES, AND A WILLINGNESS TO NOT CARE!

Here's how it went down.

6:00pm Friday: We got all dressed up for a great birthday party for a wonderful friend at my boyfriend's coffee shop.

10:00pm Friday - 9:00pm Sunday: I looked like the female version of Homer Simpson, slumped over the couch watching Breaking Bad, with sweatpants and messy hair.

Okay, I suppose it wasn't that bad. But, I learned a few things from it. As I rolled off the couch on Saturday for some errands, met a friend for coffee on Sunday and even as I was leaving for work this morning, my fine hours as "Female Homer Simpson" would not leave from my head. I refused to break out of my comfortable state. Because of this, I developed Syd's 4-Step Program for Lazy Sundays and Manic Mondays: How to look good in 4 easy steps

Step 1: Put on real pants (I know it's hard), your most comfortable pair of boots and a boyfriend button-down.

The boyfriend button-down is God's little gift to women on Lazy Sundays and Manic Mondays. A fresh color, plaid or print button-down and a hot pair of jeans, is just what you need.

Step 2: Wear a bright colored lipstick

I'm a huge fan of brightly colored lipstick on days like these. It makes your makeup look together and clean without having to try very hard. Today was a YSL #49 kind of day.

 Step 3: Learn to love the messy pony

A look like these takes minutes to achieve and still pulls you together quickly.

Step 4: Trust the process with confidence

By lunch time, you'll have seen several photos of gorgeous women in beautiful dresses, perfect makeup and spectacular flowing locks. You'll look down at your boyfriend's broken-in button down, boots that are past the point of broken in, and you'll start to doubt the first 3 steps. DON'T DO IT! Confidence is crucial in making yourself look put together. Own your casual days with a bright smile and don't forget to be okay with a lazy weekend. You deserve the break.

Syd/O, Human Holiday!

OHH Trend Sundays!

It's that time again. This week we decided to throw together some trends that show off the ever growing thrift store obsession. Macklemore sings about it, so it must be true! Thrifting is the way to go, and can create some pretty darn cute outfits! Best of all, many things from thrift stores can be changed and altered to create something that is perfect for YOU! On top of that, you'll see some things that are modern, but designed to look vintage! Check em out and comment on your favorites!

Syd has a thrifted dress altered to fit, vintage coat, a belt she made by sewing a belt to a wall clock and vintage boots.

Danni is wearing a sweet little dress with vintage carousel print and quilted coat.

"Drumm" Roll Please...

One of my favorite designers just so happens to be based right here in St. Louis.  I'm sure many of you are familiar with the amazing Michael Drummond- Designer of "The Exquisite Corpse".  Mr. Drummond was the winner of the St. Louis Fashion Week's 2009 Project: Design! Award and when you see his pieces you will understand why.  His designs are a cross between intricate beauty and hard edge fashion. These unique pieces are even more amazing with the material used to knit them-Rayon, cotton, steel, even recycled tree pulp! I am the proud owner of a few Exquistite Corpse pieces and couldnt be happier.  They are breathtaking pieces  unlike anything else in my wardrobe. I've worn them to weddings, fashion shows, even dressed down for a casual lunch.  Lucky for you, "The Exquisite Corpse" can be found at Ziezo in the loop-Do yourself a favor and go check out these pieces in person! (These pictures DO NOT do them justice)

Danni/O, Human Holiday!

(front of skirt)

(back of skirt-check out that amazing train!)

Go check out "The Exquisite Corpse" at Ziezo!

Ziezo 6394 Delmar Blvd.

Nude and Red: Manicure Trends for Spring 2013

It's only late January and stores are starting to come out with their new styles, beautiful prints, flirty cuts and warmer weather designs. With no exception, manicure trends are shifting and changing as well.

It seems as though manicure trends change faster than anything. What was once fun and exciting, is now boring and last season. Does anyone still wear Crackle nail polish?

I have compiled a list of amazing Spring 2013 manicure trends that I feel will never go out of style.

1. Two-Toned - This is a perfect look for end of winter/beginning of spring. You can keep some of the dark winter colors, but adding a pop of white or pink will brighten up the look, and still keep a little bit of an edge.

2. Nude Nails - Always classy, goes with everything and never looks overdone. This color can be warn all year round and will never go out of style. Make sure to pick a color that works with your skin-tone. Much like foundation, the perfect nude color for someone else, might not be good for you. My tone can't be too pink otherwise it blends in too much with my skin. On the flip-side, something with a tone that's too olive, will make my hands look like they're dying. This color is perfect with a touch of rose and a touch of beige. Test out some different tones on yourself!

3. Metallic - One huge trend for Spring! This is a very beautiful metallic gold. If you're not quite ready to take this plunge, adding some just to the tips, or a thin stripe down the middle is a fun way to jazz up your perfect manicure.

4. The Perfect Red - If ever in doubt, go RED! It looks good on everyone, always feels put-together and classy, and will most likely match any style you have. This is probably what I wear about 60% of the year.

What do you think of these? Are there any Spring 2013 styles you can't wait to try out?

Syd/O, Human Holiday!

Throwback Thursday

I think we can all agree that we have had some fashion styles we regret. Those outfits we wore and wonder why no one ever stopped us? Those immediate face in hand reactions to middle school/high school staples we wore in the hallways with pride. I seem to have a lot of those..I went through a few different stages in high school- one being my infamous Hot Topic phase. Now, I wont say this is "bad fashion", because this is definitely still a style people wear extremely well--this post is just about those styles that you may not necessarily be able to pull off, ie; My Hot Topic Phase. Unfortunately, that was not my only faux paux. Let me enlighten you...

1. Having naturally curly hair and being the only one of your friends who doesnt have long flowing, straight locks was hard for me. So hard that I would straighten my bangs--yes, just my bangs. I had the whole side swept, straight bang on a head of full curly hair. No pic to spare me the embarassment--the image in your head is bad enough :)

2. Platform/chunky flip flops-- really no need for description. Those were just akward to walk in and pair with the outfits I came up with. At least the 5 inch heels we all traded them in for are more flattering.

3. Ripped jeans- not the occasional rip on the knee. I'm talking cutouts upon cutouts-- see pic below. One question- Why not just wear shorts?

Those are my three personal fashion mishaps. Like I said before, these are not bad fashions--just not for me. To make me feel better- send me comments on your cringe-worthy outfits or trends. Fess up ladies (and gents)!!

How cute does Syd look in her head to toe Osh Kosh?

Danni/ O, Human Holiday!

7 Drugstore Cosmetics I Can't Live Without

A lot of us are in the same spot. It's after Christmas, money was tight and it seems to be getting tighter. Our mascara is dried up, we're out of moisturizer and we didn't realize that one shade of pink lipstick made us look like a marshmallow Peep. You could go to the YSL counter and get that brand new gorgeous lipstick, or you could eat for the week. Decisions. Decisions. Well, to help with the disappointment of not getting exactly the product you hoped for, I've compiled a list of 7 great drugstore cosmetics that I absolutely love! They are well made, and lets face it, amazingly priced!


1. L'Oreal Voluminous Volume Building Mascara (Pictured in 360 Black/Waterproof) - $8.49
 This mascara has never let me down. It builds easily without clumping and lasts all day.

2. Maybelline Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm (Pictured in Pink Punch)  - $3.99
I love this lip balm!! It's very subtle, adding just a touch of color and makes my lips incredibly soft. Plus it has SPF 20 sunscreen.

3. L'Oreal True Match Super-Blendable compact powder (Pictured in C2, Natural Ivory) - $11.49
I have been using this specific compact powder for about 3 years now! It covers incredibly well without looking too matte, it comes with an applicator so you can keep it in your purse, and lasts forever! My only recommendation is to replace the applicator after every few uses. It's a small sponge that stores a lot of bacteria after a while, and that's not something you want to keep applying to your beautiful face.

4. Yes to Blueberries Facial Towelettes - $7.99
I really love the "Yes to" line. The blueberry facial towelette is part of the Age Refresh collection. It's made with blueberries, coconut, lemon peel and apple. These ingredients will clean, remove makeup, moisturize and help brighten your skin all in one per-moistened towelette!

5.  Maybelline EyeStudio Gel Eyeliner (Pictured in Brown 952) - $9.99
This eyeliner is incredibly user friendly. You can keep it subtle, or build it up for a great winged and dramatic line. It comes with a brush that is fine enough to get a really precise line, but can be flattened for a more dramatic look.

6. TRESemme' FreshStart Dry Shampoo - $5.29
On those "second day hair" days. I spray a little dry shampoo on the roots of my hair. I have tried several brands, and really love the feel of the TRESemme' dry shampoo. It doesn't make my hair too powdery and really helps maintain my second day hair style.

7. Quaker Instant Oatmeal - (Shown in Cinnamon & Spice) - $2.88
No, I'm not mistaken. These individual packets of instant oatmeal are an amazing way to start you day with a little at home facial. Add a few pumps of your morning face cleanser to a handful of oats and pack on your face. Let sit 5 minutes and rinse away with warm water. It will tighten your skin and leave it feeling soft and refreshed. Bob from the Biggest Loser approves. :)

Check your local drugstore for price comparisons! I got my prices from www.drugstore.com

Syd/O, Human Holiday!

Dancing Queen

Yesterday marked day 1 of my new hobby--Ballroom Dancing.  I've always wanted to learn, but it took me a while to figure out the style of dance I wanted to stick with.  After a three month stint in adult beginner ballet class, I quickly discovered that dream had passed--I would not be starring in any remake of Black Swan anytime soon.  But don't worry, when my friend approached me to start taking ballroom dancing lessons with him my confindence quickly returned.
I couldn't help but research dance inspired design and fell in love with this aesthetic.  I've posted a few looks that caught my eye.  The structured ruffles,  elaborate embellishments, and draping fabrics would make even a beginner's foxtrot look professional. Watch out, Karina Smirnoff :)

Danni/O, Human Holiday!

Badgley Mischka Resort 2013

Reem Acra Resort 2013

Alexander McQueen Resort 2013

Check out the other designs from Resort 2013 fashion shows here! http://www.style.com/fashionshows/resort

Things of the past...

My Saturday mornings are usually the same. Sleeping in, throwing on my typical "Saturday Shirt" (long sleeved, extra soft, broken-in), grabbing my morning coffee and preparing myself for a relaxing day of retail therapy. (Does anybody else feel like this description was the perfect story board of a "Cotton" commercial? Eat your heart out, Zooey Deschanel) Anyway, antique shopping is starting to become more of a weekend staple. This weekend was the picture perfect description of my typical Saturday.

I hit 3 places and could not have been happier with the results! Sidney Street Sales, Treasure Aisles and the Green Shag Market were my places of choice. I don't know if there was something in the water, or maybe it was the 60 degree weather, but every corner there seemed to be another person trying to score the same deal I was. This recognition quickly made me turn my "bargain hunting game-face" on and force myself to shop at a quicker pace than all the other hunters in these joints. My withering stare and speedy feet must have paid off, because look at my haul!! I spent a total of $42 for everything at my first two locations, $39 for this amazing vintage saddle (now mounted on the wall in my dining room), made a nail polish shelf, turned the coffee burlap sack into a mock headboard, mounted the bottle crate on my wall to use as a make-shift night stand and continued to decorate the walls in my apartment. Yes, I am okay with this weekend.

Check out these lovely places!!

Sidney Street Sales: On the corner of Sidney and Minnesota in South City
Treasure Aisles Antique Mall: On Big Bend in Maplewood
The Green Shag Market: On Manchester in Dogtown

This message brought to you by Cotton, "the Fabric of Our Lives"

"OHH" Trend Sundays

And so it begins! Every Sunday we will be posting an outfit featuring a style for the week! We're excited to post our first one!

Today's style is something perfect for the in-between winter and spring months. It's focused on light layers with a little bit of edge. This will look good on anyone, and with a few focal-point pieces, you can throw it together with anything in your closet!

Danni's key pieces are her oversized sweater and accessories. Syd's key pieces are the leather jacket and studded black boots.

Leave us some comments and let us know what you think!