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  • Recommended: The 10 best green beauty products
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Dressing up the latest trends in fashion, beauty and more with style secrets you can use.
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  • 5
    days
    ago

    DIY: Color-blocked summer moccasins

    Chelsa Skees

    By Chelsa Skees

    Even though they are not seen by many, my boring brown moccasin slippers were really in need of spicing up. So I decided to color-block them with a fun, hot pink in an attempt to rejuvenate their look. Here is my easy how-to tutorial on how you can brighten up yours as well: 

    Supplies:

    • Small, flat paint brush
    • Fabric paint (I used Jacquard Textile paint for natural or synthetic fabrics)  
    • Moccasins in need of sprucing

    Chelsa Skees

    Directions:

    1. First, flip up the fringed flap to begin painting. Be careful around the edges to ensure you get a nice clean line.

    Chelsa Skees

    2. Let the shoes dry for 2 hours, then apply a second coat of paint to guarantee a smooth, all-over color that will pop!

    Chelsa Skees

    3. After your second coat, let the shoes dry completely before wearing. Viola! Now you can wear your new stylish slippers around the house — even when guests are over.

    Chelsa Skees

    Tip: I wasn’t concerned about getting paint on the underside of my fringe flaps. However, if you are, you can use binder clips to simply clamp them back while you are painting.

    Chelsa Skees is currently working as a freelance fashion stylist and writer. Her favorite color is grey and can beat just about anyone in a bubble blowing contest.  

    Slideshow: Coveted creations from DIY style bloggers

    Why buy it when you can make it? We rounded up the top DIY fashion bloggers and showcased some of their best projects.

    Launch slideshow

    More: DIY: Miss Piggy's $595 pink glitter heels
    Our favorite beauty buys for Mother's Day
    Video: Retro fashion: Making the old new again

    Comment

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    Explore related topics: shoes, trends, DIY, footwear, colorblock
  • 19
    Mar
    2012
    3:24pm, EDT

    DIY! 7 new stylish ways to de-clutter your beauty closet

    BeautyRiot.com

    By Alexis Finc, BeautyRiot.com

    I would love to de-clutter, but whenever I think of organization, I imagine clear plastic bins with labels attached. I guess that works, but it's just so boring ... and ugly. Besides, some beauty products are actually fun to look at, like perfume bottles and colorful eyeshadow palettes. Why hide them in a drawer or in a bin under the bed?

    Luckily, there's a bunch of crafty people on the Web who know a thing or two about stylish organization, whether it's for makeup, accessories, or perfume bottles. If I get started now, I think I might have the kitchen table cleaned up in an afternoon — or, alright, more like a week. Ready to join me? 

    Check the top creative ways to de-clutter your beauty closet:

    Project is courtsey of visiblymoved.blogspot.com

    Wooden necklace organizer
    Salvaged wood is a hip and eco-friendly way to decorate. Here's how to bring that element into your room, and organize your necklaces at the same time:

    What you need:
    • salvaged wooden board
    • small drawer knobs (with screws)
    • drill

    Instructions:
    1. Take your piece of salvaged board and drill five pilot holes down the center of the board, the same distance apart. (Tip: You may want to mark them out before you drill.)
    2. Take your drawer knobs and attach them to the board, via the pilot holes.
    3. Hang up the board, and arrange your necklaces on the drawer pulls.

    beautyriot.com

    Earring cheese grater
    Here's a secret: Your cheese grater doesn't want to grate cheese. What it really wants to do is show off your earrings. Give it a chance.

    What you need:
    • small cheese grater
    • paint
    • small metal hooks (used to hang pictures)
    • four beads (the hooks should fit inside the bead holes)
    • strong glue, like E-6000
    • tape

    Instructions:
    1. Paint the cheese grater a fun color.
    2. Once dry, attach the four hooks, one to each corner of the bottom of the cheese grater using the strong glue. Place a piece of tape over the hook to hold it in place until the glue is dry.
    3. Once the glue has dried, remove the tape, and put the bead on the curved part of the hook. This will protect the surface of your furniture.
    4. Hang earrings from all the different holes in the cheese grater.

    This is Glamorous / beautyriot.com

    Perfume plate rack
    Perfume bottles are super pretty, but displaying too many on your dresser can end up looking like clutter. Here's a better way to organize and show off your fragrance collection:

    What you need:
    • plate rack/spice rack
    • paint
    • picture-hanging hooks

    Instructions:

    1. Find a small plate/spice rack, and paint it a fun color.
    2. Once dry, attach it to your wall with picture-hanging hooks. Arrange your perfumes and/or makeup bottles in rack.

    beautyriot.com

    Coffee bean brush holder
    This simple project keeps your makeup brushes upright and organized. Plus, your bedroom will smell like coffee every morning. Yum.

    What you need:
    • small, clear plastic tub (one side should be open)
    • coffee beans/ small grains, etc.

    Instructions:
    1. Take the clear tub, and fill with coffee beans and/ or small grains (whichever you prefer)
    2. Stick your brushes into the coffee beans, brush side up.

    More from BeautyRiot.com: Makeup Dare: 30 Days, 30 Looks
    True Story: I Have Cystic Acne
    My Fashion Week Backstage Diary

    beautyriot.com

    Rake organizer
    Sure, you can buy little hooks to hang your necklaces, but we like this rustic, shabby-chic take on jewelry organization. And it's so easy ...

    What you need:
    • old rake
    • screw and screwdriver
    • sandpaper (optional)
    • Rustoleum (optional)

    Instructions:
    1. Unscrew the handle from the old rake.
    2. If the rake is rusted, sand off the rust or cover the metal with an anti-rust spray paint like Rustoleum.
    3. Drill the screw into the wall/ door of where you'd like the rake to hang.
    4. Hang the rake on the screw, rake prongs down. Arrange your necklaces on the prongs.

    beautyriot.com

    Teacup jewelry
    It doesn't get any easier than this. Seriously.

    What You Need:
    • small, cute bowls and teacups

    Instructions:
    1. Arrange the bowls/teacups in your top dresser drawer. (You can also place them on top of your vanity.)
    2. Fill with necklaces, bracelets, rings, and other jewelry. Hang the earrings off the lip of the cup if possible.

    Beautyriot.com

    Magnetic makeup board
    Is your makeup strewn all across your bathroom counter? Do you spend 30 minutes digging in your vanity drawer for your favorite blush? If so, you'll love this magnetic makeup board. Not only does it keep your makeup organized, but it also looks super cute on your wall.

    What you need:
    • old picture frame
    • acrylic paint
    • spray adhesive
    • metal sheet or baking sheet
    • piece of fabric
    • mini magnets
    • strong glue, like E-6000
    • old, empty pill bottles

    Instructions:
    1. Find an old frame, and remove the glass. Paint the frame a fun color.
    2. Take the frame to the local hardware store and ask them to cut a piece of metal to fit inside the frame, or use an old baking/cookie sheet if it already fits.
    3. Cut a piece of fabric to the size of the metal sheet, and attach it to the metal sheet with some spray adhesive.
    4. After the spray adhesive has dried, attach the metal sheet to the frame.
    5. Line up all your makeup products — blushes, bronzers, eyeshadows — and attach a mini magnet to each item. Use a heavy duty glue to attach the magnets.
    6. Take an old pill bottle and throw away the top. Paint the bottle. Once dry, attach a few magnets to one side of the bottle. Fill the old pill bottle with brushes, eyeliners, or mascaras.
    7. Place each makeup product on the sheet, as well as the old pill bottle.

    More from BeautyRiot.com: Makeup Dare: 30 Days, 30 Looks
    True Story: I Have Cystic Acne
    My Fashion Week Backstage Diary

     

     

    Comment

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  • 25
    Jan
    2012
    1:40pm, EST

    DIY: Michelle William's gorgeous Golden Globes headband

    Katy Winn / AP file

    "My Week with Marilyn" actress Michelle Williams dazzled in a pretty headband at the 2012 Golden Globes.

    Statement headbands were seen all over the Golden Globes red carpet Jan. 15, with best actress winner Michelle Williams dazzling onlookers in her velvet and rhinestone version. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton donned the fashionable accessory at the State of the Union address Tuesday night, opting for a chic black headband accented with several rhinestones.

    "Are headbands now a thing?" asked Styleite.com of the headband trend. "The answer is yes. Yes, they are."

    Michael Reynolds / EPA

    Headbands get political: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, embracing Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, at the State of the Union address on Jan. 24.

    A fan of the trend? DIY blogger Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare demonstrates how to make your own and explains why it's an incredibly easy project that you'll love to wear.

    You need:

    • Enough black velvet ribbon to wrap around your head.
    • A couple of inches of black elastic, the same width as the velvet.
    • A rhinestone or beaded feature for the headband. (I used rhinestone embellished ribbon but you can also use a broach, beads, glittery belt buckle, single rhinestones or whatever you want to act as the sparkly feature for your headband.)
    • A needle and thread.

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    How to:

    1. Cut the ribbon to size by measuring it around your head — leaving a 3-inch gap at the back where you will sew the elastic to make it easier to wear.

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    2. Sew one side of the elastic to the underside of the ribbon.

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    3. Sew the other side of the elastic to the other side of the ribbon. You will now have a round headband.

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    4. Try the headband on to make sure it fits properly, then look to decide where you want to attach your feature piece. Slightly off centre to the left or right side of your head usually looks the best.

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    5. Once you've decided where you want the feature piece to sit, sew it onto the velvet ribbon. Try it on to check that the feature piece is sitting properly, if it is — you're finished!

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    To wear the headband, I put it on while my hair is down and then lightly pin my hair in a messy up do after putting it on. This sort of statement accessory can be easily worn during the day with a relaxed outfit of striped top and jeans, or be taken into evening paired with a silk camisole and bright pink wide leg trousers.

    Geneva Vanderzeil

    For more great DIY style ideas, check out A Pair & A Spare.
     

    More: Find your perfect Hollywood haircut

    More DIY: Make Miss Piggy's $595 pink glitter heels

    1 comment

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  • 22
    Dec
    2011
    11:27am, EST

    11 holiday nail art ideas you've never seen

    TotalBeauty.com

    It's holiday party time, and we're guessing you already have your outfit picked out, your hairstyle in place, and your makeup down pat. But what about your nails? You know, those little blank canvases on the tips of your fingers?

    Nail art will totally transform your holiday look — and get everyone talking. Not sure what to paint? No worries. We waded through tons of holiday nail art photos to find the best ideas this season. We've got cute penguins, candy canes, strands of colorful lights, and a whole lot more. And for those minimalists, we also have some beautiful, layering options that don't require any Christmas creatures.

    TotalBeauty.com

    Reindeer on the run
    Want to impress your friends? Try this flashy reindeer nail design. While it may look super hard, it's actually pretty simple. But your friends don't have to know that.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of gold nail polish.
    3. Then it's time to add the reindeer. The reindeer image is actually a nail stamp. You can find at BundleMonster. Cover the stamp with red polish and scrap off any excess polish.
    4. Position the stamp where you'd like it on your nail and press.
    5. After it's dry, complete with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    Candy cane cravings
    Anyone else love candy canes more than all that Halloween candy? If so, here's a way to make those treats to little bit longer.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of shiny red nail polish.
    3. Next, paint diagonal stripes on your nails with a nail art pen/brush (try Milani's Nail Art Lacquer with precision brush in White Canvas, $4.99). Make sure to vary the thickness of the stripes, as well as the distance between the stripes.
    4. After you're done, complete with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    Penguins on parade
    We love this cute take on the South Pole's cutest animal. We're pretty sure he has happy feet, too.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of a periwinkle nail polish (try China Glaze's Secret Periwinkle, $5.99).
    3. Now it's time to "build" the penguin. First, apply two coats of white nail polish — or use a white nail pen — in a rounded rectangular shape; the periwinkle should look like a border around the white.
    4. After the white dries, use a black nail art pen to make two dots for the eyes of the penguin.
    5. Use another nail art pen, preferably in neon so it pops against the white, to apply larger dots for the nose and feet (try Sally Hansen Nail Art Pen in Neon Pink, $7.49).
    6. Finish with a top coat.

    8 Reasons You Get Zits During the Holidays
    The 2011 Nail Polish Awards
    7 Best Looks from Our Favorite Holiday Movies

    TotalBeauty.com

    Candy canes everywhere
    If you don't feel like turning your entire nail into a candy cane, why not draw a bunch of little candy canes on them? Plus, the light green background really brightens the whole design.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of a mint green nail polish (try Essie's Mint Apple Green, $8).
    3. Next, use a white nail pen to draw on little white candy cane shapes. You should angle the candy canes in different directions, and don't be afraid to cut off a candy cane at the tip or edge of the nail.
    4. Once the candy canes dry, use a red nail pen to add the stripes, which are so tiny, they'll probably look just like dots.
    5. After that step, use a yellow nail art pen to dot around the candy canes.
    6. Finish with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    Pining for the winter
    Aren't feeling the whole Christmas vibe? Here's a festive winter design that celebrates nature. (We promise, no more candy canes.)

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of a textured gold nail polish. Then, using nail art pens in two different shades of green (try All Cosmetics, they offer a wide selection of green hues), build your branches starting with the tip of your nail. We suggest using one color at a time and allowing them to dry in between — this way you can layer your colors.
    3. After the branches are done, use a brown polish to place a small dot/oval on a couple of the nails. This is the pinecone, so make sure it's attached to the branch; you can even paint a few more branches to overlap the pinecone.
    4. Finally, draw the ridges onto the pinecone in black with a very fine nail art brush.
    5. Finish with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    Catch a gingerbread man
    Spread holiday cheer (minus the calories) with this Gingerbread Man nail art.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of a mint green nail polish (try Essie's Mint Apple Green, $8).
    3. Now we're ready for the gingerbread man. On both thumbs, use a dark yellow or light brown nail art pen to draw the basic shape of the gingerbread man's body.
    4. Next, apply the details — the eyes, mouth, buttons, bow tie, and Santa hat -- using a red, white, and black nail art pen.
    5. Finish with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    A sparkly holiday
    Sick of nail art pens and really, really small brushes? We feel ya. Here's an easy holiday look that only involves two nail polishes (and no little brushes).

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of a silver nail polish.
    3. Next, swipe on a coat of green and red glittery nail polish (try China Glaze's Party Hearty, $8). The silver polish should poke through the glitter.
    4. Finish with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    It's snowing!
    Even if you live in Florida, you can still hold some snow in your hands with this design.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry apply two coats of a high shine deep blue nail polish (try NYX Girls in Pacific Blue, $5).
    3. After those coats dry, dip a toothpick in a thick white polish. Use the toothpick as a brush and draw intersecting straight lines (like a star) for a simple snowflake. For the more complicated ones, you can experiment with connecting the lines or drawing smaller lines off the main star image.
    4. Finally, seal with a top coat.

    8 Reasons You Get Zits During the Holidays
    The 2011 Nail Polish Awards
    7 Best Looks from Our Favorite Holiday Movies

    TotalBeauty.com

    A very rhinestone Christmas
    Try this for a much more subtle and classy take on holiday bling.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Apply two coats of red nail polish to your thumb, two coats of peach to your pointer finger, two coats of brown nail polish to your middle finger and pinkie, and two coats of white nail polish to your ring finger.
    3. After these base colors have dried, use nail art pens to add the details. You'll need white, red, light blue, black, and orange nail art pencils. You can use a toothpick dipped in nail polish if your brush isn't fine enough.
    4. Now it's time to apply the rhinestones. Many online retailers sell nail art rhinestone wheels that contain multiple colors, like this one from BundleMonster. Some come with a sticky back, while other rhinestone kits require nail glue.
    5. If you have sticky-backed rhinestones, use tweezers to remove them from the sheet and apply to the nail. If your rhinestones do not come with adhesive, you'll need to buy some nail glue, like IBD NailInstant Brush On Glue, $3.49. To use, simply brush on nail glue, and apply rhinestones to your nails with tweezers.
    6. Finish with a top coat.

    TotalBeauty.com

    A time for giving
    Show your love of giving/getting presents (whichever the case may be) with this nail art.

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of bright red nail polish.
    3. Then, using a white nail pen, draw a cross on all your nails. Add the ribbon shape on your thumb and ring finger.
    4. Outline the white and bow shapes with a gold glitter nail art pen (try Stripe Rite Gold Nail Paint, $2.99).
    5. Finish with a top coat.

    Minty fresh
    Here's a more abstract holiday design you're sure to love.

    TotalBeauty.com

    Get the look:
    1. Start with a base coat.
    2. Once dry, apply two coats of a mint green nail polish (try OPI Damone Roberts 1968, $9.50) and finish with one coat of China Glaze Fairy Dust, $8.
    3. Apply two coats of white nail polish on your ring fingernail.
    4. Using a red nail art pen, create the peppermint swirl.
    5. Finish with a top coat.

    8 Reasons You Get Zits During the Holidays
    The 2011 Nail Polish Awards
    7 Best Looks from Our Favorite Holiday Movies

    4 comments

    I like the penguin <a href="">nail art ideas</a>. That's totally something I would do for myself... if I was good at painting my nails! But I'm not. So that's why I stick to my printable nail art. :)

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    Explore related topics: beauty, holiday, DIY, how-to, nails
  • 23
    Nov
    2011
    9:34am, EST

    DIY: Miss Piggy's $595 pink glitter heels

    Miss Piggy's "look at moi" style and attitude has inspired the Jerome C. Rousseau for Walt Disney Signature Diva Glitter Pump, available at Saks Fifth Avenue for $595.

    By Rina Raphael

    Kermit must be flush with cash, because that pig sure has expensive taste.

    To promote her newest Muppets movie, Miss Piggy has charmed her way into the footwear aisle – specifically, Saks Fifth Avenue's. The fashionable hog has inspired an envy-inducing pair of heels, the Jerome C. Rousseau for Walt Disney Signature Diva Glitter Pump, for sale in January.

    The Jerome C. Rousseau for Walt Disney Signature Diva Glitter Pump, available at Saks Fifth Avenue for $595.

    The only issue? The official movie merchandise sells for a cool $595. (Her recent stint editing at Vogue Paris sure had repercussions.)

    We brainstormed how to get Miss Piggy's look without the Hollywood price tag (we're on a tighter, more Gonzo-esque budget). With the help of DIY style blogger Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair and a Spare, we explain how to recreate Miss Piggy's pricey hooves for a fraction of the cost:

    This project is so incredibly easy and is really great for rejuvenating a pair of worn out heels. For my version I actually used a worn-out pair of bright pink patent Louboutins that I found in a market in Hong Kong for $5. The patent finish was completely ruined and peeling (the previous owner had tried to fix it with ill-matched pink nail polish which ended up looking very bad). So they were perfect for my glitter project.

    You Need:

    • High heels
    • Glitter
    • Acrylic glue
    • Sandpaper
    • A paint brush
    • Spray-on lacquer (find it amongst the spray paints)

    A Pair & A Spare

    A Pair & A Spare

    How to:
    1. Clean the shoes, and then lightly sand them to rough up the surface so the glue sticks properly.
    2. Mix the glue and glitter together in a container.

    A Pair & A Spare

    3. Paint the shoe with the glitter glue.

    A Pair & A Spare

    4. Sprinkle the shoes with extra glitter to fully coat them. Don't worry about getting glitter inside the shoes, just clean them up once the glue has dried.

    A Pair & A Spare

    5. Once you are happy with the glitter and it has dried, spray the shoes with a coat of spray on lacquer. This will stop the glitter from falling off. Voila!

    A Pair & A Spare

    Intimidated by DIY? You can also buy the trend, at a far more affordable price than Miss Piggy's selection. TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas spotted several glitter shoes: Fergie Women's Awareness ($79.99, FergieShoes), Valeri Pump ($59.95, DSW), and Bordello by Pleaser ($59, Endless.com). Bobbie also recommends a DIY-light version, via Krylon Glitter Blast spray, which offers a sparkling glitter finish in a can (if messing with glue ain't your thing).

    krylonglitterblast.com

    For more great DIY ideas, visit A Pair & A Spare.

    More: DIY: Scarf watch from A Pair & A Spare
    Miss Piggy hogs the fashion spotlight

    5 comments

    Great stuff about miss piggy! Found some other related stuff at <a href="">pink sparkly heels</a>.

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  • 3
    Nov
    2011
    9:12am, EDT

    The TODAY DIY Style Week winners!

    By Bobbie Thomas

    Last week, TODAY.com kicked off its first TODAY DIY Style Week and I’m happy to report that the response was overwhelming. I was able to share one of my favorite “fashion foiling” projects and four of our favorite all-star bloggers, including Erica Domesk of PS I Made This; Kristen Turner of Glitter and Glue; Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY; and Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare, shared their easy and inexpensive ideas as well.

    In addition, we challenged you, the viewers, to submit your clever, crafty ideas and we received over 500 responses. I was given the difficult task of choosing a winner, but first I wanted to highlight a few of my favorite runner-ups:

    UpCycling
    Aside from being good for your wallet, DIY can also be great for the environment and there are countless ways to rethink, reuse, and reinvent items you already own. I was particularly impressed with what Anna Brones was able to create out of an old bike tube. Using a clean tube, a scissors, an X-acto knife, jewelry pliers and earring wires, she created a one-of-a kind pair of chic  “bike tube” earrings.

    Anna Brones

    Honorable mention also goes to Rio Lopez’s Stone Polished Ring, Yuka Yoneda’s Credit Card Nameplate Necklace and Elyse Hutchinson’s Gift Card Necklace

    Forward-thinking fashion
    Everyone has a hand-me-down skirt laying around or an old pair of shoes that they no longer wear but can’t bear to part with. These items may seem ready for the trash, but with a little ingenuity, you can give your old favorites a facelift. Veronika Placek turned an old suede skirt into an on-trend envelope bag using a gold chain from the hardware store, high strength glue, a plastic place mat, some lining fabric and a few stitches.

    Veronika Placek

    Honorable mention also goes to Yuka Yoneda’s  Glow in the Dark Shoes, and Hrisoula Gatzogiannis' Bejeweled Shoes.

    Home decor
    Some of the most inventive ideas submitted were for the home. A smart and easy way to spruce up your wine glasses, Cara Mundy suggested applying chalkboard paint to the bases, adding another element to otherwise clear, boring flutes. The final result will also give your guests a way to identify which drink belongs to them. 

    Cara Mundy

    Honorable mention also goes to Alexcia Patterson's FireFly Pouch and Jessica Hill's Thumback Nightstand.

    And the winner is... Christina Child and her clay fringe necklace! Congrats to Christina and check out the step-by-step instructions on how to make your own version of her unique design.

    Winner: Colorblock fringe bib necklace, by Christina Child of Make It Make It

    Materials:

    makeitmakeit.blogspot.com

    • Polymer clay
    • Jump rings
    • Clasp and chain
    • Pliers
    • Dremel tool or needle
    • Clay cutter blade
    • Rolling pin
    • Baking sheet
    • Wood block

    1. Use pasta roller or rolling pin to roll out a length of clay – not too thin, several millimeters is best. (Ultimately you'll want this piece to be as long as you want the bib to be.)

    makeitmakeit.blogspot.com

    2. Using a clay blade, trim clay into a large rectangle, then smaller rectangles. I find it best to do this step on the sheet you'll be baking on to prevent the clay from becoming misshapen. If you don't own a dremel, now is the time to pierce holes in the clay which will be used to secure the fringes to the chain.

    makeitmakeit.blogspot.com

    3. Bake. (Note: often, clay color will change a bit after baking so be prepared for that. And mine tends to bubble a tiny bit sometimes.)

    4. After cooling, use a dremel tool to drill holes in each piece of baked clay. Make sure you drill on a piece of wood or scrap piece of something (I use the back of a wooden cutting board). Also, you may want to wear glasses and a mask as this step creates a fair amount of dust.

    makeitmakeit.blogspot.com

    5. Lay out your design and figure out your spacing. Begin attaching pieces of clay to the length of chain, making sure to keep the chain from twisting as you go.

    makeitmakeit.blogspot.com

    6. Attach clasp and finish! The possibilities are endless!

    makeitmakeit.blogspot.com

    Love this necklace but too lazy to DIY? You can also order it at Etsy.

    More: See more from TODAY DIY Style Week
    Make it, don't buy it: DIY style goes high-fashion

    2 comments

    I did a pair of shoes with crystals last year! I used fuchsia ones on my Louboutins, you can see my post here: raindropsofsapphire.com/my-diy-christian-louboutin-yoyo-fuchsia-strass/

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  • 27
    Oct
    2011
    10:51am, EDT

    TODAY DIY Style Week: Faux fur collar from Glitter 'n Glue

    pacificcoastnews.com

    Rihanna outside of Wembley Studios after performing on "The X Factor".

    Kristen Turner of Glitter 'N Glue is a big believer in looking chic without breaking the bank. "I think the growth of the DIY movement can be contributed to two things: hard economic times and expanding creative social networks," she told TODAY.com. "We want to buy the latest and greatest in designer fashions, but we might not be able to afford them."

    For TODAY DIY Style Week, Kristen was inspired by the effortlessly cool Rihanna, who stepped out in a fur and leather Balmain jacket. Find out how you can rock the furry trend this fall:

    DIY directions:
    Materials:

    • Faux leather fabric
    • Faux fur fabric
    • Glue
    • Scissors
    • Tape measure

    Kristen Turner

    1. Measure the width of your back from shoulder blade to shoulder blade.

    Kristen Turner

    2. Cut the leather fabric to a width of half a yard and about 1-yard in length.

    Kristen Turner

    3. Glue a 3-inch strip of the faux fur to the top of your fabric and using your scissors, cut two arm slits into the leather. The distance of the slits should be the same as your back measurement.

    Kristen Turner

    4. Voila!

    Kristen Turner

    5. A complete fur leather vest.

    Kristen Turner

    6. It's the perfect layering piece for a crisp fall day.

    Kristen Turner

    TODAY DIY Style Week
    From Oct. 24-28, we'll highlight DIY stars who will demonstrate a creative style project. Participants include Erica Domesk of PS I Made This, TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas, Kristen Turner of Glitter and Glue, Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY and Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare.

    Join the conversation! Use Twitter hashtag #DIYWeekTODAY to let us know what you think!

    More: See more from TODAY DIY Style Week
    Make it, don't buy it: DIY style goes high-fashion
    Enter the TODAY DIY Style Week Challenge!

    4 comments

    Love this look! Kristen Turner is the best thing to happen to the DIY movement. The Glitter 'N Glue blog always features the best, easiest-to-do, creative and fashionable looks!

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  • 27
    Oct
    2011
    9:53am, EDT

    TODAY DIY Style Week: Glittering bling from I Spy DIY

    Splash News / Splash News

    Kim Kardashian at the "bebe" Jewelry launch at Bebe Soho in New York City.

    Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY works in fashion, so it's no surprise she spends her time recreating trends. "The feeling you get when you tell admirers you did it yourself is beyond gratifying," she said of her stylish projects, which range from Kanye-inspired denim shirts to sparkly cat eye sunglasses (as spotted on J.Lo).

    For TODAY DIY Style Week, Jenni created rhinestone-embellished hoops like Kim Kardashian (crazy eyelashes not included). Find out how to make your bling:

    Materials:

    • Hoop earring
    • String of clear (or color) small rhinestones
    • Embroidery floss or experiment with different types/colors of string

    Jenni Radosevich

    1. Tie you a knot around your earring and start of rhinestone, close to the closure. Double knot to secure.

    Jenni Radosevich

    2. Continue wrapping the string around the earring, between each link of the rhinestone.

    Jenni Radosevich

    3. When you reach the each tie another double knot, and cut of excess rhinestones and string

    Jenni Radosevich

    4. Add a pop of color with red, or get a sleek look with black string.

    Jenni Radosevich

    Jenni Radosevich

    TODAY DIY Style Week
    From Oct. 24-28, we'll highlight DIY stars who will demonstrate a creative style project. Participants include Erica Domesk of PS I Made This, TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas, Kristen Turner of Glitter and Glue, Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY and Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare.

    Join the conversation! Use Twitter hashtag #DIYWeekTODAY to let us know what you think!

    More: See more from TODAY DIY Style Week
    Make it, don't buy it: DIY style goes high-fashion


    4 comments

    Nice idea,but who wrote this? it is horribly written!

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  • 26
    Oct
    2011
    10:09am, EDT

    TODAY DIY Style Week: Scarf watch from A Pair & A Spare

    Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare recreates the most coveted trends off the runway by doing professional-looking projects that you can easily integrate into your wardrobe. For TODAY.com, she re-imagined the leopard print scarf watch – a take on the 'stacked wrists' trend that's very popular with celebrities at the moment.

    You may also have noticed that recently more is very much more when it comes to wrists. In the way of jewelery, the focus has shifted from the neck to the arms, and finally wrists are getting the attention they deserve! "It" girls Olivia Palermo and Nicole Richie have been spotted sporting this trend – with stacked watches, bracelets and chains weighing down their wrists. Never one to shy away from recreating a trend, I recently made a very simple scarf watch, perfect for layering with all the other wrist bling you're sure to be wearing this winter.

    TODAY DIY Style Week
    From Oct. 24-28, we'll highlight DIY stars who will demonstrate a creative style project. Participants include Erica Domesk of PS I Made This, TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas, Kristen Turner of Glitter and Glue, Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY and Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare.

    More: See more from TODAY DIY Style Week
    Make it, don't buy it: DIY style goes high-fashion
    Enter the TODAY DIY Style Week Challenge!

    1 comment

    Jewelry, NOT jewelery!! Proofread, folks.

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  • 25
    Oct
    2011
    10:39am, EDT

    TODAY DIY Style Week: Tablet clutch from PS I Made This

    It's impossible to discuss DIY fashion without mentioning Erica Domesek of PS I Made This. The energetic and constantly innovative DIY designer somehow manages to transform everyday items with extremely accessible tutorials. (It's amazing what she can do with a Sharpie marker.) With her infectious enthusiasm, you'll have no choice but to give in to her genius.

    Not a huge fan of the glue gun or a thread and needle? No worries! For TODAY DIY Style Week, Erica crafted a bright, chic and useful tablet clutch with just a sheet of drawer liner, duct tape, scissors and self-adhesive Velcro. (Your iPad will thank you.) Watch:

    Erica Domesek

    Erica Domesek

    TODAY DIY Style Week
    From Oct. 24-28, we'll highlight DIY stars who will demonstrate a creative style project. Participants include Erica Domesk of PS I Made This, TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas, Kristen Turner of Glitter and Glue, Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY and Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare.

    More: See more from TODAY DIY Style Week
    Make it, don't buy it: DIY style goes high-fashion
    Enter the TODAY DIY Style Week Challenge!

    Comment

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    Explore related topics: fashion, featured, DIY, today-diy-style-week
  • 24
    Oct
    2011
    8:51am, EDT

    TODAY DIY Style Week: Foiled fashion from Bobbie Thomas

    WireImage

    Actress Camilla Belle

    While TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas believes that "style is the way you speak to the world without words,” it doesn't have to be store-bought. "You don't necessarily have to sift flour or break out a sewing machine," Bobbie said. "You could also consider a creative, semi-handmade alternative." From opting to wear a dress backwards or using a safety pin to alter its shape, Bobbie's unique philosophy centers around the idea that you don't have to do it (all) yourself, but you can do it your way. For TODAY DIY Style Week, Bobbie updates the LBD (little black dress):

    Press-on metallic sheets are an easy, inexpensive way to update almost anything. Transform timeless pieces like a white button-down or little black dress, give denim a little sheen, or save an old favorite that may have faded by adding a bit of shimmer. And anyone can learn this simple two-step process — just apply glue, let it dry tacky to the touch, then press and peel to reveal! Here are my insider tips on how to glam it up:

    DIY directions:
    1. Begin with almost any knit or woven garment (but steer clear of anything too fuzzy or with a very loose  weave).

    Bobbie Thomas

    2. You can purchase “foil glue” at your local craft store or online at jonestones.com. Use a paintbrush, sponge, or your fingers to spread the glue over a large area (above left), or you can create detailed patterns (above right) using a bottle with a nozzle.

    Bobbie Thomas

    3. Let the glue dry until it's tacky; thinner layers will require as little as one hour while thicker layers can take up to eight. Once the glue is almost dry and tacky to the touch (very important), press foil firmly over glue (shiny side up).

    Bobbie Thomas

    4. Now you're ready to unveil your metallic masterpiece — in one swift motion, rip the foil sheet from the garment.

    Bobbie Thomas

    5. And voila! Whether you go monochromatic with silver foil on a gray sweater or dress up an LBD with some glitzy gold, there's no wrong way to do it.

    TODAY DIY Style Week
    From Oct. 24-28, we'll highlight DIY stars who will demonstrate a creative style project. Participants include Erica Domesk of P.S. I Made This, TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas, Kristen Turner of Glitter and Glue, Jenni Radosevich of I Spy DIY and Geneva Vanderzeil of A Pair & A Spare.

    More: Make it, don't buy it: DIY style goes high-fashion
    Enter the TODAY DIY Style Week Challenge!
    Slideshow: Coveted creations from DIY style bloggers

    2 comments

    Where do I find the silver foil? I went to Michael's and Joann Fabrics in my town. Is there a website that I can order from? Love the idea.

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  • 23
    Jun
    2011
    9:18am, EDT

    Bobbie's Buzz: D.I.Y summer's hottest trends

    TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas

    Whether you consider yourself a "crafter" or not, anyone can pull off these quick and easy fashion-forward ideas. TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com’s Bobbie Thomas shows you how to turn a few overlooked items into conversation-worthy accents.

    Trend: Crochet and macrame
    Crochet and macrame made a comeback on the 2011 spring/summer catwalks. Rachel Roy, Gucci, Cavalli, Dior and more were full of crafty inspiration. And if you happen to have a doily collecting dust or can score a left-behind treasure from your local thrift store, you’re a quick stitch away from haute couture.

    You can use a basic hand-stitch or spray adhesive to update a T-shirt, or literally "try-on" a tablecloth or runner for a creative new beach cover-up. From romantic and feminine to haute hippie, there’s something for everyone. Consider adding length to a short skirt by tacking your trim along the inside of the hem or using a panel to create an overlay, or just arrange assorted pieces for a pretty patchwork look. You could also remove a part of your garment and replace with crochet (the racerback of a tank top, neckline of a T-shirt, etc) to show a little skin.

    Trend: Stripes and colorblocking
    Beyond the classic navy "nautical" look, stripes are everywhere this season, along with bright blocks of color. Both make bold statements on accessories and are a fantastic way to revive old bags, belts and even shoes. Cut and tie together pieces of colorful string or yarn and wrap a tattered belt, or wind embroidery thread around slim sandal straps for a fun pop of color. It’s also easy to cover a wider belt, flap of a handbag, or clutch with — believe it or not — duct tape. Beyond the basic black and silver rolls you may have at home, you can find a wide array of shades, patterns and even sheets at Michaels crafts stores. I love to experiment with different shades and varying sizes of strips to create unexpected contrast. It takes only a few dollars and just minutes to make an instant update with a striking effect.

    Trend: Global accents
    A wide variety of culturally inspired jewelry is in the spotlight. Unique patterns, shapes and materials make a less-glitzy statement with everything from fringe to feathers. This casual, handmade feel is perfect for this carefree time of year, and from a few common items that surround you — the possibilities are endless! For example, did you ever think to put those bobby pins sitting in your bathroom drawer to use? Within minutes you could string them together for a chic bib necklace or slip them on to hoop earrings. And you’ve probably hinged paper clips together before, but did you consider wrapping your design with tape (or thread)? If you’re not into DIY, similar creations are selling at major retailers — but many will make you stop and say, “Hey, I could do that.”

    TODAY style editor Bobbie Thomas talks about this summer's trends and how to pull off the look by making it yourself.

    Related: Bobbie's Buzz: Summer skin perfectors
    The perfect summer shade: Tamron's turquoise toes

    Comment

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