Like of the Week: Behold: An Artist who Paints with her Pout!

Red lipstick is riveting. It’s sexy, bold and fun. Other uses for it can now include artistic medium. That’s because Natalie Irish, a Houston, Texas artist, has taken the iconic colored tube of lipstick and created a this stunning portrait of sex symbol, Marilyn Monroe, ONLY using her lips.

Since then she has created other works by using this same method and is garnering lots of attention for her impressive method. Truly a visionary, she states that though her work does take some time to create, and often results in weary eyes and a tired pucker,  it can’t be denied this talented and gifted young woman has a knack for taking one of style’s most coveted beauty products and using it to produce timeless and dynamic work.

To actually see Natalie creating this visionary work, check out the video below:

Dislike of the Week: Marriage Equality is Not Accepted at Dollywood…

Marriage equality is something that many people in our Country have been fighting for for some time now, and you would think after everything that people are going through to make sure equality is doled our fairly, that more people would have an open mind. State of Tennessee, sadly, I’m looking at you.

Last weekend, lesbian, Olivier Odom, brought her family to the Knoxville theme park, Dollywood, (Yes, as in Dolly Parton) and was forced to turn her Human Rights Campaign shirt with the phrase “ Marriage is So Gay” inside out. What ever happened to freedom of speech or the fact that there isn’t anything remotely vulgar about the message of this tee that should warrant this sort of demand at all to begin with?

Olivier’s wife, Jennifer Tipton had this to say about the incident: “That’s what we found so offensive — that [the park employee] said it was a family park. Families come in a wide range of definitions these days and we were with our family.”

Olivier obliged only to have her family admitted into the park but it still raises questions on an issue that isn’t going to go away. Dollywood spokesman, Pete Owens has said that he will reach out the couple to address the issues brought up. At the end of the day, it’s a t-shirt, this is America and whether or not some people want to admit it, times are changing. Whether it’s spoken aloud, in print or with a fashion statement, equality is not only a privilege but also a personal right that should be respected. What are your thoughts?

Like of the Week: Industrial Accessories

If you’re like me, then you like hardcore, industrial accessories. I was never a pearls-wearin’ type of gal and always favored bold, statement pieces that both men and women can pull off.

I was the girl in middle school who would beg my parents to buy me hardware nuts and plumbing tubes when they went to Home Depot so I could wear them as rings and would rummage through my Dad’s toolbox for things I could turn into accessories. And now, thankfully, demure jewelry seems to be taking a backseat this season and making way for looks that are modern, chunky and in-your-face.

However, these items don’t have to cost you a pretty penny. While scouring the internet I came across a variety of ‘How-To’ books that let you utilize your everyday household items to create original looks of your own. Hardware jewelry-making is becoming more mainstream and actually requires very little skill to construct. To check out some of these books click on the titles below:

Making Designer Jewelry from Hardware, Gems and Beads

Hardwear: Jewelry from a Toolbox

If DIY isn’t your thing (any neither is owning a toolbox) fret not, both B.B. Bellezza (see picture shown) & Additions on Etsy feature “Recycled Wearable Hardware” that’s both eye-catching and adventurous. From hex nut earrings to steel and brass washer chokers, these looks are both edgy and original. So, embrace this trend and give your look the industrial ooomph it’s missing!

Dislike of the Week: Evian wants you to revert back to diapers.

So Evian has launched a new campaign to promote their water and its lasting youthful effects. And what better way to showcase this than by creating ridiculous t-shirts and making adults parade around in them for an ad? For only 30 euros you can waltz about like a fool with a screen-printed baby across your chest.

I cannot tell you how utterly absurd I think these shirts are. Not only are they veering toward disturbing but if I actually saw someone wearing this there is no way in Hell I could ever take them seriously. This also just might be the best opposite sex repellent I have ever encountered. Who would sleep with someone in this shirt? Aside from anyone with a freaky baby fetish, and on that note, that’s just sooo wrong…

Nope, I can see no redeeming qualities by sporting this bizarre tee, WHATsoever. And as if it’s not outlandish enough, Evian created a little video that’s sure to stay with you and leave you internally cringing…Enjoy!

Like of the Week: Wedding Gowns Brought to you by… Charmin?

It’s odd and a little out there, but these stunning dresses are actually made from the one thing you use when you go to the John. Yup, look a liiiittle bit closer. These wedding gowns were constructed from toilet paper!

The 7th Annual Toilet Paper Wedding Dress Contest, sponsored by the site Cheap-Chic-Weddings.com may not have been on most people’s radar but it’s a challenge that hundreds of women compete in yearly in an attempt to create the perfect look for that oh-so special day.

These gowns take some delicate maneuvering to create, as well as roll upon roll of the popular paper product and it goes without saying that many of the results are incredibly impressive. Held together by only glue, tape and needle and thread, these garments must be inventive and wearable and are chosen based on three categories, “creativity, originality and overall beauty. “

This year’s winner, Susan Brennan (to the right), constructed her floor-length design from only 4 rolls, winning the $1000 grand prize.

In the end, while most brides will opt for a frock that’s NOT created by toiletry products, it can’t be denied that TP off the roll never looked soooo glam!  To see more toilet paper-inspired creations, click here.

Dislike of the Week: “I’m sorry, but I believe your dress is STARING at me…”

Okay, this dress is the shit nightmares are made of.  Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed countless flicks featuring Mr. Buscemi and his bug-eyes with much enthusiasm, however, that does NOT mean I want him plastered all over my naughty bits.

Spawned by the hysterical, albeit creepified site, Chicks with Steve Buscemeyes, Aussie clothing company Black Milk is rolling out with their very own ‘Steve Dress’.

Now, in my humble opinion, you’d either have to be a very HUGE fan of ‘Empire Boardwalk’ or have had to have lost a bet to don this dress.  It’s awkward, creepy and just plain odd. And with a price tag of $100, it’s sort of absurd. Then again, so is the site, Chicks with Steve Buscemeyes, so…I guess, it’s a draw?

Either way, in my book, this is a FAIL.

Like of the Week: Shake Up Your Summer Hairstyle with Subtle Sparkles!

If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your locks this summer with minimal effort but like to stand out in the crowd then check out Bling String ( I know, I know – no points for whoever created the name but I guess we can’t have everything!). Following closely in line with the hair feather trend that’s been taking summer by storm, Bling String allows you to attach sparkly strands to hair for a look that will subtly shine and is sure to turn a few heads.

With this kit, which can be purchased at Urban Outfitters, you get two spools of colorful string and ten attachment hair clips. According to the packaging, the string is easy to cut to any desired length and can last in hair for up to a few weeks when cared for properly. Not to mention the affordable price clocking in at only $9.99.

Colors range from gold, bronze, silver, turquoise, and pink. Subtle, simple and fun.

Dislike of the Week: Needles, Saline and Bagelheads?…OH MY!!!

Tokyo has never been one to shy away from the extreme when it came to fashionable body modification procedures but this one may have just pushed the envelope a tad too far. It would now seem that youths are taking to injecting saline into their foreheads to create donut-shaped formations.

These “bagelheads”, as they are being referred to, go through a lengthy process to achieve this, err, interesting look. First, medical saline solution is infused into the forehead for two hours, then as a bubble forms the thumb is pressed into the center to create the bagel effect, which it turns out, only lasts for a night before the body absorbs the saline and the swelling goes down.

Holy Hell, is it just me or does this sound like pure unadulterated torture? Two effin’ hours to have saline pumped into your forehead so you can look like a freak for ONE NIGHT?!? Am I the only one who thinks this is sounds like the biggest waste of time EVER? And whose bright idea was it to go with a bagel shape? When did bagels becomes the hot new trend in forehead modification and why wasn’t I notified? So many, many questions that need answers…(sigh).

Sorry, Tokyo…apologies “Bagelheads,”…but in the end this trend is a straight up, hands down, all out FAIL!

Like of the Week: Watercolor Works & Temporary Tattoos (And Not the Cheesy Kind!)

These brilliant works of body art might look temporary, but trust me, these brush strokes and paint splatters won’t wash off in the shower! That’s right, these abstract tattoos are actually the real deal created by NYC ink artist, Amanda Wachob.

With her skilled ability to create body art that resembles impressive watercolor imagery, she’s been quickly gaining notoriety within the tattoo world for her eye-catching designs as well as her “Conceptual” series, titled, Bloodlines. These tattoos are clearly what could put Wachob on the map. Instead of ink, distilled water is used to create henna-like designs that are similar to blood in color. This technique renders the marking as semi-permanent. As your body heals the tattoo itself fades.

So for all of you who teeter on the fence regarding permanent ink (myself included), Amanda Wachob just be the tattoo temptress who can persuade you to give temporary ink a try!

Dislike of the Week: “Excuse me, but I think you have a Vagina on your dress…” (MNSFW)

Only the top looks tame, folks! For those of you who are at work, I have opted not to slap you in the face with this visual “stunner,” but if you’re curious (and I knoooooow some of you are), feel free let your fingers do the walking and click HERE.

This flashy frock was created by Hazel Moore and shown at the Glasgow School of Art Degree Show. Hazel, I’m all about female empowerment but this just reads a little too blatantly for your average wedding-goer. Plus, I don’t know a man with a pulse who wouldn’t go running in the opposite direction if he saw this thing heading down the aisle toward him. One that’s a normal size is already a challenge for the male brain to process, there’s no sense in tossing in one that’s ten times it’s original size!

Well, now that I’ve sufficiently scarred everyone, have a great weekend!!! :D

Like of the Week: Technology-Inspired Swimwear

It’s at times like these when technology and style align that some of the most revolutionary fashion creations are born. Case in point, the innovative 3D bikini dreamt up by the scientific masterminds at Continuum Fashion, who claim their latest achievement, the N12, is “the world’s first ready-to-wear, completely 3D-printed article of clothing.”

The name, N12, derives from the nylon material the suit is composed of, its eye-catching design being the result of combining thousands of miniature nylon circular plates, all attached by very thin springs, to create the overall 3D effect, making the garment wearable from the moment it’s printed.

You simply snap the individual pieces together and it’s literally ready to wear, while at the same time adapting to your body’s curvature and can even be worn in the water. It also currently comes in black and white.

With the scientific knowledge available to us now in the fashion world, I have a sneaking suspicion that this is only the beginning of 3D printed clothing! To learn more about this fascinating process and Continuum Fashion, check out video below!

N12.bikini – Intro Video from Continuum Fashion on Vimeo.

Dislike of the Week: The NYC Fancy Rat Convention (Need I say more….)

Now, I’m going to start by saying, just because you put the word “Fancy” at the beginning of something does not make it so. Now, onto the “rat” portion of the title, these furry NYC rodents are most known for terrorizing subway patrons and scurrying through abandoned streets and trash dumps at night (as a new Yorker, I can attest that there is nothing more cringe-worthy than having a rat scurry from who-the-fuck-knows-where and trample across your path when you’re just walking home late at night and simply minding your own business.).

Anyways, I digress, on with the fancy rodent show. Not only do these furry critters get to don their Sunday best (we’re talking bridal gowns and tuxedos here, people) but they even got scamper down the “ratwalk” (Oh the horror! Insert eye roll here) in a real life rat fashion show! This blessed event occurred over the Memorial Day weekend, where dozens of rat afficionados gathered to show off their tiny tulle-encrusted critters.

Ada Nieves, a Pet Clothing Designer, and creator of many of these “rat-astic” fashions, claims that her design background of creating fashions for other various miniature mammals, such as cats and dogs, has prepared her for taking on the role of styling these rats. In the video below she states that by dressing up these little guys, their image is completely changed for the better, going on to say that all dolled up, these rats are met with “Awww’s” over “Ewww’s”.

Yeah, right, because that’s what’s been missing when I see a rat in the street, a formal gown for me to fawn over!

Sorry, fancy rats, but this is a FAIL!

Like of the Week: Sense of Fashion Makes Online Shopping Fun & Sensible

Watch out, Etsy, you’ve got some serious competition! I have recently come to fall in love with the online shopping/selling site, Sense of Fashion.

For those of you who are avid style lovers, collectors of vintage apparel or simple love to find a great deal  – this site is for you! Like Etsy.com, this online marketplace allows designers, stylists and budding fashionistas to sell their wares yet Sense of Fashion offers a unique experience by narrowing down the search to only fashion-related items.

With styles in shoe ware, clothing and jewelry ranging from modern to vintage, there’s something for everyone. Founded by Daria Shualy and CEO Ori Levy, Sense of Fashion is a site that celebrates style, fashion and creativity. It’s a online haven where fashion bloggers can exchange viewpoints, stylists and designers can network and trendsetters can shop. Pretty much a win/win for everyone when it comes down to it.

Dislike of the Week: Wanna Scar Your Child? Carry Them in This!

This is just one of the most absurd things I have ever laid eyes on  (and I have seen my fair share of absurd things). I don’t have a child so I can’t officially say this is the stupidest thing I’ve ever seen on the market but I can say that if I saw a woman wearing a vest with a protruding live baby poking out of the chest I might be more than a bit perturbed. Is it me or is this drawing too many creepy comparisons to that part in the movie The Thing when the alien popps out of the guy’s stomach?! Albeit, that baby looks pretty okay with its present situation but then again, it’s a baby, what does it know?

This, my friends, is the Peekaru.  Basically an $80 fleece vest with a hole cut out of the middle of it.  And don’t you worry, men, they come in your sizes too! This is a direct quote from a buyer of the product:

“The first time we wore it, 5 separate people stopped me to ask what it was [Okay, first off, never a good sign when people approach you wondering what the fuck you’re wearing and why your child is harnessed to you and wrapped up like a mental patient or baby Hannibal Lechter] and where I got it [this information should never be disclosed. EVER.] and many others smiled [I’m imagining these “smiles” were out of fear, pity, overall shock or possibly because they were trying to stifle a laugh] and made comments about how cozy it looked.[Because, what else are you supposed to say to another person who’s wearing something like this?! I would say that too to someone’s face before I ran off laughing into the night]” – Julie, NY

Thanks Julie, you tried, but I have to say, despite your “glowing” review, this is a FAIL!

(  I can already see the hate emails from angry Peekaru-wearing mothers everywhere. Bring it!)

Like of the Week: Surpr-eye-zing Disney Art

I’m always amazed when I see those people who can scrawl an entire poem on a grain of rice or construct miniature ships in bottles and this week’s “Like” sort of falls under that category.

Twenty-one year old artist, Katy Alvestakes, takes on our most beloved Disney classics and turns them into a visual feast for the eyes – literally! Not only is she able to capture scenes from these classic children’s films with incredible precision and minute detail, but she does it all on a very limited canvas.  How limited, you ask? Well, as limited as one’s eyelids.

Her artwork includes scenes from such favorites as The Nightmare Before Christmas, Aladdin and The Lion King, just to name a few. There’s no denying that Katy’s skills are impressive to say the least and these talents aren’t only expressed through the glorifying of Disney classics. You can see more of her awe-inspiring work on Deviant.Art.com.

If this is any indication of how talented Katy, it will be exciting to see what she comes out with next!

Dislike of the Week: Acne-Inspired Accessories

I think the only words to describe this alarming piece of jewelry fall somewhere along the lines of, “ Ewwwwwwww!”, “Gross!”, and last but certainly not least, “WTF!.”

Jeweler Wynona Johnson is responsible for creating this ring that resembles a ruptured whitehead that’s…how shall we say, emerging from its skin-like cocoon. All I have to say is…That. Is. Diiiiisgusting! The designer herself admits to being one of those people who just can’t resist a good skin picking and blames the unsightly habit on anxiety until it finally inspired her to create a line of “skin related jewelry,”  ash she put it. Okay, one thing to do it and admit to it then move on, quite another to create a visually disturbing jewelry homage to it. Juuuuust saying.

However, if picking black heads, zits and pimples is a passion of yours, then this “exotic” accessory, titled the Pimple Popper- Raw,(Gah, the name alone invokes terror!) can be yours for $163 on Etsy.com.  Created from such materials as copper, sterling silver and a freshwater pearl (as the classiest white head you’ve ever laid eyes on!) you can delight and disgust all those you come in contact with simply by waving your hand!

Okay, I honestly think I’ve stared at this thing long enough to reach the point of nausea. Pimple Popper ring, you FAIL!

Like of the Week: Feather Extensions Are the Newest Trend to Hit Hair

They’re slowly infiltrating magazines, runway shows and city streets. Even celebs are finding these new extensions hard to resist.

Yes, feather extensions just might be this Summer/Spring’s biggest hair trend. These light and airy hair additives are not only eye-catching in an off-beat and fun way, but you can also treat them just as you would your own tresses – meaning they can be cut, curled, and styled just as you normally would.

Though it might seem like a tricky trend at first it can also be surprisingly versatile. Mostly made from the feathers of Roosters, these exotic extensions can be naturally dyed in an array of bold colors so the look can go from subtle to striking. Whether you opt for one, a few, or a whole section, these are sure to add some pop and pizazz to your hair and can even be worn by men.

If you’re in the NYC area there are a few salons that cater to this new trend, such as the Wendy Nichol Studio on Sullivan Street and Salon V in the East Village. The process is easy, taking about only 10 minutes with the feathers lasting in hair for up to 6 weeks. If the DIY approach is your style, there are also a variety of feathers to choose from on Etsy.com that come with in-depth instructions on how to attach them.

So take advantage of this new and exciting hair trend that’s sure to amp up your locks.

Dislike of the Week: Hairball Cat Creations

This goes under bizarre and just plain gnarly! I know my fair share of cat people and I myself have nothing against felines but this just seems like it teeters into the WTF zone for me.

Talented jewelry designer Heidi Abramson decided to celebrate the obscure National Hairball Awareness Day (don’t feel bad, it’s not marked in any of my calendars either) by using some of her own cat’s precious purged and up-heaved fur to shape and create some rather, err, original jewelry.

Yup, you read that right – hairball necklaces, earrings and cocktail rings to be exact. Okay, I’ll give her points for creativity but the thought of wearing something on my body that my own cat has vomited up is just a little too much.

Eh, to each their own, I suppose. However, is it just me, or does this cat look super pissed? He probably feels exploited. Although I’m not too proud to admit that I’d be pretty upset if I were a cat and my owner was making shit out of my disgarded fur balls too.

The nerve. I’m sorry, Heidi. Apologies, Kitty… but this is a FAIL.

Happy Friday the 13th, All!!! Now, let’s get down to business.

Like of the Week: Ingenious Potted Plant Jewelry for the Metropolitan Masses

Love all things miniature? Looking for the perfect gift for that someone in your life with a green thumb? Got a teeny tiny apartment too small for a pet but perfect for an itty-bitty plant? Then look no further than these quirky and inventive mini potted plants that you can wear!

That’s right, created by the Icelandic company HAF, these unique handmade silver rings and necklaces showcase genuine plant life and are the perfect off-beat touch to any ensemble.

According to the site, “The collection of this hand jewelry is designed for people in metropolitan cities and is an experiment in drawing nature toward man…”

Plus, the great thing about these plants is that you only have to water them every 5 weeks, so previous plant killers need not worry (myself included!) and the moss can keep its natural grassy color for up to a full year.

To learn more and or purchase your own Growing Jewelry, click here.

Dislike of the Week: Converse creates a Hideous Summer Shoe for the Masses to Mock

Let the record show that these shoes (if you can even call them that) are so heinous and so hideous that they are offensive to sneakers and flip flops EVERYWHERE! Apparently Converse felt the need to create their very own hybrid of footwear to frighten a new generation with. If a Spade’s a Spade then these shoes are straight up, hands down fug. Seriously, my retinas are burning here!

Now, don’t get me wrong, I owned more than my fair share of Chucks during my middle and high school career and STILL rock a pair to this day, but THIS?!?!… This is an abomination. I thought the whole reason for flip-flops was that they were basically created for the lazy. All I’m seeing is a schizo flip-flop with partial sneaker-like tendencies and a bunch of excess fabric and ties. These shoes are just plain high maintenance.

Still, if it’s your “thing” to rock horrendous shoes you can purchase these bad boys at DSW for $34.95. Personally, I would pay $34.95 to NEVER have to put these on my feet.

Converse, I’m sorry but you FAIL!