Hey there lovelies!!! It's your fashion girl M. Renee' with some exciting news! We have now entered one of the most exciting weeks in Kansas City. Kansas City Fashion Week is here and M. Renee's Closet has all the coverage. Join me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for highlights and be sure to join me here on the blog for more KCFW fun! Stay fabulous!!!
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In part one of Scents & Sensibility (The Art of Fragrance), we explored scent layering with one element that may be a little hard to get. Or is it? Fragrance dusting powder can not only absorb excess moisture, but also make dressing a little easier while leaving behind a lovely light scent. However, not all fragrances come with corresponding dusting powder, and the ones that do cost just as much, if not more than the fragrance itself. So what's a girl to do? Make your own of course with these simple steps in today's If You Don't Know, Now You Know. Here's What You'll Need
Step 1: Pre-measure your baby powder in your dish to fill just about half the dish. Step 2: Separate your two cotton balls in half to make four small sections Step 3: Slowly spritz (seven sprays for each cotton half) your favorite fragrance on each cotton half. Step 4: Add the baby powder along with the fragrance laced cotton halves in your plastic tupperware container. Cover with the lid. Step 5: Shake your tupperware container for 1 min making, making sure the cotton halves have been thoroughly integrated in the baby powder. Allow to sit sealed overnight. Step 6: Using your hand strainer, slowly sift the powder into your dish while also removing the excess powder from the cotton halves in the strainer as well. Now you have an awesome duplicate of your favorite department store fragrance powder at more than a fraction of the cost. Don't believe me" Well let's do a little comparison. Another really awesome advantage to making your own fragrance dusting powder is that you're not just limited to department store fragrances. With some essential fragrance oils and a little imagination, you can create a wide array of scented powders for you to wear and to share without breaking the bank. Until next we meet lovelies, stay fabulous!!! Instructional Photos Provided By Mekaile Renee' Turner Shalimar Dusting Powder by Guerlain Photo Provided By www.nordstrom.com M. Renee's Closet © 2016
A special thank you to all of my readers for making this blog possible. The past two years of writing this blog has been an absolute blast for me, and I feel very blessed to share it with all of you. Here is to more years and more adventures to come!!! As always, stay fabulous lovelies and God bless!!!
Hey there lovelies! Wanna know what I'm making??? You'll have to check it out Sunday as I bring back the "If You Don't Know, Now You Know" segment of M. Renee's Closet. As always, Stay Fabulous!!!
While studying Fashion Marketing in college, I was presented with a challenging assignment in a Product Development class. That challenge was to come up with a "fashion related" business complete with a full product/services description, along with a soft marketing plan. In all honesty, I was not at all thrilled about having to take that class as my career goals then was to become a fashion buyer for a luxury department store.Relunctantly, I decided to use my love of fragrance to create a perfume line for my project. As time progressed, the idea of physically creating a fragrance for my presentation led me to this adorable little essential oil shop in Leawood, KS called S Scents at the time. The atmosphere was extremely comforting and friendly, not to mention fun since I got to learn a great deal about fragrance making. Needless to say, the project was a huge success, and it was all thanks to that little fragrance oil shop. Today it now a hip and trendy new store called Blend. In this edition of M. Renee's Closet, I will share my recent visit to Blend, and how a fresh new management duo added a more modern twist to the custom fragrance business while maintaining the original integrity of its predecessor. When new owners Chelsea and Lindy decided to take over the former S Scents in Leawood, KS, they were new to the fragrance game. Having previous experience in entrepreneurship and customer service, both women new right away that they wanted to continue with the concept of customized natural fragrances that the former S Scents was known for while creating a whole new shopping atmosphere that is uniquely Blend. My first question for Chelsea and Lindy is an age-old one that most people curious about fragrance have always wanted to know. What makes fragrance so appealing? "Everyone is unique as far as taste goes which makes the fragrance making experience much more personable and unique." says owner Chelsea. As far as the types of scents Blend clients are seeking, both Chelsea and Lindy are noticing clients who are wanting to break away from the traditional cookie cutter scents found department and big box stores. " People are wanting to try something new, however light and fresh scents such as White Tea and China Rain are the most popular among our clients." says owner Lindy. " What really elevates the experience for our clients is that we only use 100% natural essential oils and skin care ingredients, which is perfect for those wanting to steer clear of the alcohols and filler used in mainstream cosmetic items." In additional to a very extensive fragrance oil organ of endless possibilities, Blend offers a variety of gifts and treats for everyone. All unique and not offered anywhere else. Needless to say my recent trip to Blend was quite wonderful. I always find it so refreshing to have th opportunity to meet with other fellow women entrepreneurs doing it for themselves while providing a unique experience for everyone. It is quite inspiring. Blend is a one of a kind custom fragrance shop that never ceases to amaze, but don't take my word for it. Check it out for yourself!!! Special Thanks Chelsea & Lindy of Blend Blend Hawthorne Plaza 4941 West 119th Street Overland Park, KS 66209 (913) 469-1737 Main Photo Provided By "Blend - Overland Park Shopping | Shopping Overland Park | Hawthorne Plaza." Overland Park Shopping Shopping Overland Park Hawthorne Plaza. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Mar. 2016. Additional Photos Provided By Mekaile Renee' Turner M. Renee's Closet © 2016
Hey there lovelies, it's your fashion girl M. Renee'!!! It's that time of year again, and Kansas City Fashion Week is upon us! This week-long event is chock full of amazing activities, fun and of course fashion from some of the most talented designers Kansas City has to offer. Tickets are on sale now at www.kcfashionweek.com. Hurry, because they will sell out fast. Hope to see you there!!!
Ask anyone who knows me well, and they will tell you that I have sort of an obsession with fragrance, particularly French perfume. I will never forget my very first fragrance when I was seven which was Love's Baby Soft. More than likely it was a first fragrance for a lot of little girls, but what I remember most about it was the pretty powdery smell and how "grown up" I felt, because now I get to wear perfume just like my grandmother. Today's edition will be dedicated to that ever so mysterious elixir known as fragrance, the different types as well as how to wear it. Also I will be sharing my recent trip to a very unique kind of fragrance store located here in the Metro . So What Is Fragrance?When I worked as a Fragrance Associate at J.C. Penney a little over eight years ago (before the Sephora takeover), I set out to do extensive research on the subject of fragrance and what makes it so special to many people as an aspect of fashion. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines fragrance as the following: 1. a: a sweet or delicate odor (as of fresh flowers, pine trees or perfume.) b: something (as perfume) compounded to give off a sweet or pleasant odor. 2. The quality or state of having a sweet odor. Those are pretty straight forward definitions, however extremely lacking to say the very least. When you think about it, fragrance is more than just some sweet-smelling fluid in a bottle we spray on ourselves. It evokes fond memories, alters moods for the better , and possesses the ability to make a woman feel absolutely gorgeous. In essence, fragrance is a myriad of mystic and intrigue that goes far beyond first appearances in those intricately stunning glass bottles in department stores. It's All Relative Believe it or not, fragrances are separated into what is known as Olfactory (relating to the sense of smell) Families. In 1983, renowned author and fragrance expert Michael Edwards developed what is now known as The Fragrance Wheel which classifies individual fragrances with their olfactory families. This is also the method by which department store fragrance associates are able to sell fragrances to consumers. Over the years The Fragrance Wheel changed slightly as fragrance formulas changed. The most recent wheel, edited in 2010, breaks the categories down exactly like this: How to Choose It, How to Use It For me, hearing someone say that perfume and cologne are one in the same is like the sound of nails scratching across a chalkboard. Quite frankly, I'd rather hear the nails. Just as there are differences in fragrance families, there are major differences between perfume, cologne and toilettes. What makes them different is the essential oil to alcohol ratio in each formulation. Simply put, the more essential oils are in a formula, the longer the scent lasts. This definitely comes in handy when choosing a fragrance that is right for you. Some people want scents that lasts for hours while others prefer light and delicate. The most important method of looking for fragrance for the first time is to stick with scents that you feel most comfortable with. I myself adore spicy scents so I would be more apt to try scents within that scent category. Another key method when trying fragrance is to always test on the inside wrists where pulse beats transfers the most blood flow. This helps the fragrance notes expand to full bloom, and will give you a better idea on how your particular body chemistry will handle the fragrance. Don't be Afraid to Layer Up!!! Now this is the fun part of fragrance, the scent layering! I simply love to layer my scents, because it is a foolproof way of ensuring the fragrance you use lasts a very long time throughout the day or night. Also, it will make you feel so luxurious too. Scent layering is very simple as it only involves a few key elements which are the bodywash, body lotion, fragrance or dusting powder and the actual fragrance itself. Fragrance Powder of Dusting Powder - Ok, this may seem a bit old fashioned, but trust me when I say this step is very beneficial. Today, you will only find a corresponding dusting powder with more higher end fragrances, but they are fairly easy to make (coming on a later post). Dusting powder not only absorbs excess moisture, but also makes getting dressed a lot easier. Lastly all that's left is to apply the fragrance, but there is a proper way of doing so. As mentioned earlier, you want to apply your fragrance to pulse points on the upper body to warm up the scent and bring it to full bloom. These places include inside wrists, throat, sides of the neck (where the jugular vein runs), and inside elbows. Now you are all set and ready for your fragrance experience. Fragrance is the very essence of life found not only in a little spray bottle, but in our everyday items such as laundry detergents, house cleaning items, and even car refresher. No it is not just a liquid in a bottle, but rather a statement of your personality without you having to say a word. Special Credits "Flavor and Fragrance - UPI Chem." UPI Chem. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 Mar. 2016. "Fragrance Families." The Perfumed Court. The Perfumed Court LLC, 2015. Web. 03 Mar. 2016. "Acurnica Chemistry." Acurnica Natural Healing. No Name Available, 2016. Web. 03 Mar. 2016. "Skincare Tips." Cococare. Cococare Products, Inc., 2016. Web. 03 Mar. 2016. "Fragrance Family Album" photos by: Mekaile Renee' Turner M. Renee's Closet © 2016
So last year marked my very first critique of best and worst dressed for the Oscars. Since then I have decided to make this a new tradition on M. Renee's Closet that I like to call The Best and Not So Best Looks of the Oscars. I really want to steer clear from using the term "Worst", because after all haven't we all at one point left our homes in something that probably should have remained in our closets or in some cases the store all together? My belief is that there is always room for improvement when it comes to our wardrobe selections good or questionable. And now without further adieu, my selections for this years Best and not so Best Looks of the Oscars 2016!!! The BestAndra Day in Safiyaa Not only does she have an impeccable voice, but also impeccable style as she is seen here channeling Old Hollywood glamour in this Safiyaa creation. Jared Leto in Gucci To me Jared's sense of style is a mixture of classic sophistication and a bit of rebelness rolled into one which is hot! In addition to the sharp contrasting red piping on both th blazer and pants, he also decides to break away from the traditional bow tie in favor of a matching carnation. Very clever Mr. Leto!!! Patricia Arquette in Marina Rinaldi Ok, so last year I marked Patricia's choice of looks as a bit dowdy and not well put together. This year she's really kicked things up a notch with a curve hugging, off-the-shoulder number by Marina Rinaldi. By the way, did you see her hair? Yeah, I did too. MUCH better Patricia!!! Reese Witherspoon in Oscar de la Renta Reese was another one that I gave low marks on last year, but not by much. The hair, makeup and bodice of her dress aged her a bit, however this year she managed to return to her classically beautiful self. One of my many favorite designers, Oscar de la Renta (God rest his soul), has and always will be known for beautiful silhouettes that blends Old Hollywood gaiety with a modern flair. This off-the-shoulder number complements her hourglass figure well, and the royal purple color does wonders for her lovely skin tone. Charlize Theron in Dior Couture I seriously cannot recall a red carpet moment where Charlize looked anything but radiant, and this year was no exception. I like to call this look "Lady in Red Redefined" with this sultry red, curve hugging gown by Dior Haute Couture and plunging neckline. The Not So BestCharlotte Rampling in Armani Prive' So last night I learned something important. There are certain outfit combinations that simply do not work, and boardroom mixed with evening wear is one of them. Had this particular dress not been a maxi, then I would've felt differently about it. Kate Winslet in Ralph Lauren I love Kate and I love Ralph Lauren. However this look...not so much. It looked to me like it was constructed from several Hefty bags and vinyl that may have been rather noisy when she moved. Heidi Klum in Marchesa My girl Heidi can usually pull off any look,except for this one. As with Charlotte Rampling's dress, Heidi's was a mixture of ethereal, sex appeal and a bit of edge that culminated into a disaster. Kerry Washington in Versace Again with yet another combination that failed with me in the form of this Versace creation that Kerry Washington wore last night. For me it was a mixture of goddess and dominatrix. Amy Poehler in Andrew GN What do you get when you strip your grandmother's couch of all its fabric, sew it into a baggy frock then dress it on a woman with a small frame? You get Amy Poehler in this Andres GN nightmare. Sorry Amy, but it was a huge miss. M. Renee's Closet © 2016
Ok, so last time we went over some really awesome traditional ideas that you fellas could wow your sweetheart with this Valentine's Day. Now on to the not-so traditional, but before I go on, I would also like to address another audience that might be reading this post, the singles. Being single myself, I am well aware of the begrudging feeling of seeing everyone in a relationship receive numerous gifts and adoration. As I am also well too familiar with the seemingly poignant message that "Valentine's Day is a day for couples only. NO SINGLES ALLOWED." That is why I have decided to make part two of this post more of an "All Inclusive" deal. Though these unique ideas are something that couples can do this years if looking for something different, it can also serve as a way to break the mundane of entertaining a pity at home and help those who are feeling the Valentine's Day blues of being single realize they are fabulous too! One really neat idea for both couples and singles this Valentine's Day is feeding your inner hobbyist. A personal favorite of mine is visiting my local bookstore, Half-Price Books in Overland Park, KS. It is not only a wonderful way to satisfy the literary lover in your sweetheart, but also a terrific way for singles to pick up new hobbies through information books, or to get reacquainted with an old favorite read. This is a picture of my beautiful fur baby Boots when he first came to me as a stray a few years ago. That is when I learned of a local organization call KC Pet Project and their wonderful work to help find loving homes for abandoned and abused animals. This is another wonderful way to spend Valentine's Day with either yourself or your sweetie by giving a rescued animal a loving forever home. Also KC Pet Project are always looking for volunteers throughout the year as well as donations of food, toys and supplies. Recently I've decided to take up cooking which was a really fun idea for Valentine's Day last year. Not only was I able to learn new cooking techniques, but also enjoy time with my family by making them a loving homemade meal. This is also a perfect idea for both couples and singles. It gets people involved and leaves more time to enjoy one another's company whether it's with a sweetheart or close friends and family. No matter if you're with someone special or single, Valentine's Day can be a great day for everyone. Hope you enjoy yours. Until next we meet, STAY FABULOUS!!! Photo Credits Tannenbaum, Kiri. "Valentine's Day Candy Conversation Hearts History."Delish. Hearst Digital Media, 10 Feb. 2012. Web. 13 Feb. 2016. Marie, Casee. "Unleash Your Inner Bookworm in 2013." Literary Inklings. Casee Marie & Literary Likings, 2 Jan. 2013. Web. 13 Feb. 2016. M. Renee's Closet © 2016
This one's for the fellas. So once again it's that time of year when you walk into stores of what seems to be an endless array of reds, pinks and hearts with frilly lace as far as the human eye can see. For many who are coupled up, it can be an overwhelming time of year when that one burning questions starts to echo in the back of the mind, "What are we going to do for Valentine's Day this year?" Believe me when I say that there isn't anything to worry about, for the following ideas will not only make for a memorable Valentine's Day, but will also show that there is truly something for everyone! If your special lady is into the traditional Valentine's Day gaiety, then these gift ideas are just for you. Of course nothing says "I love and adore you" like a beautiful bouquet of sweet-smelling floral arrangements. No matter what your taste or budget, one of the perfect places to get a lovely floral arrangement will always be FTD. And now with FTD.com you can have flowers sent to your special lady anytime, anywhere. With so many arrangements to choose from, nothing will ever beat a dozen of these gorgeous long-stem roses. Another great Valentine's Day tradition, of course, is the candy, and if you're a Kansas City native like I am, then you'll know one name is synonymous with excellence in chocolate. That's right, Russell Stover! Since their early beginnings in 1923, Russell Stover has been the number one in the chocolate confection business in Kansas City, as well as globally. In addition to their confections being sold in local grocers, Russell Stovers are also known for their stand alone chocolate shops with eleven locations throughout both Kansas and Missouri which boasts other selections such as coffees, ice-creams, and cookies which makes for a perfectly sweet date night! And lastly for the traditionalist lady in your life, a few gifts that she will surely appreciate. Now this is strictly depending on some of her likes, but my personal faves always come from the jewelry and fragrance perspective. Of course you can go the simple route and have the wonderful experts at your local jewelry or department store give you a hand at picking one out, or if you really want to got he extra mile, why not make some of your own! A perfect way to combine a date and gift together is by doing something creative. For fragrance, one of the most amazing places is Blend formally known as S- Scents in the shops of Hawthorne Plaza in Overland Park, KS. Blend offers an array of essential oils and carriers for your love to create a special fragrance that is uniquely her own. Plus why not make a few manly scents for yourself as well! Also, while keeping up with the theme of V-Day creativity, take a trip to your local Pandora to have her create a one of a kind piece that she will cherish forever! So of course this only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Valentine's Day treats. Stay tuned Friday for some of my not-so traditional Valentine's Day finds as well as a little something for the singles out there. Until next time, stay FABULOUS!!! Photos Courtesy Of
Cupid - Preston-Peabody, Josephine. "Cupid and Psyche." Myth of ***. Siteseen Ltd., n.d. Web. 10 Feb. 2016. M. Renee's Closet © 2016 |
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