I'm obsessed with androgyny. Whether it be with fashion, hair, or makeup there's always something to be said about a women who is 100% confident rocking masculine looks. Plus, bravo for looking better in your boyfriends pants than he does. 

There are many ways to pull off this look. In an elegant, timeless, and chic fashion you can layer structured pieces such as what you see above on Eva Green. All you need is a tailored blazer over a cardigan covered button up collard shirt and a tie for good measure. I love the added pattern of stripes and the subtle detail on the tie. Do you love her glamourous 30's/40's hair with this otherwise manly attire? I sure do. 

Or, you can channel your inner mountain man and rock an oversized beanie paired with baggy and distressed boyfriend jeans and a baggy plaid shirt. I recommend pairing this ensemble with dainty kitten heels and a lot of fun bracelets and rings. Maybe throw in a killer nail color too.

Now these looks have me drooling. Can I snap my fingers and have these looks in my closet asap? Pretty please, and thank you. The look on the left keeps it simple yet so so perfect with the play on hem lines, textures, and the overall structure of the individual pieces. Some pieces are skin tight, others are loose and hang off the body. The boots are the perfect mixture of sexy and strong and the hair is uncontrived. Killer.

The look on your right mixes some of my favorite pieces and layering techniques. I won't lie, I kind of love this whole 2013 denim-on-denim trend. The pop of color with the emerald green heels and the sapphire blue squares on the blazer add just enough flare for you to keep the accessories, makeup, and hair to a minimum. In fact, you SHOULD be rocking the baseball cap look with this. And please, for the love.. don't forget your aviators. 

1&2- Could not find original image source. Found via pinterest. 
3. All Saints womens Spring 2013 lookbook
4. In the City with Crystalin

1- Rag and Bone Distressed Boyfriend Jean
2- Light grey cashmere slouchy beanie
3- Rag and Bone oversized shirt
4- ZARA Vamp shoe with ankle straps
5- Ted Baker tailored suit blazer 
6- Acne Studios baseball cap
7- Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses

Xx- SN

I'm having a hard time concentrating this morning due to the fact that I'm enjoying a brisk (yes, brisk!) morning in the desert on a patio of one of my favorite coffee shops, with a small coffee, and there are puppies EVERYWHERE. Oh. My. Heavens. 

Summer is seriously right around the corner my friends. I promise! And with the sun shinning bright and only days away from 100 degree temps *starts making face at cute puppy* I think its a perfect time for us to chat about sunglasses.*staring at another cuddly puppy making a squishy face* Ok, I'll stop. Someone get me a dog and we'll be back to business. 

Now the real question is, how much are you willing to spend on your sun blockers? When it comes to accessories I've got to admit, I'm a "quality vs quantity" kind of gal. BUT, with the onslaught of fabulous shades readily available via H&M, Madewell, TopShop, and even Nordstrom Rack I'm starting to reconsider my "Sunny Snob" ways. I couldn't believe how amazing the prices were on some name brand sunnies at Nordstrom Rack. I found a pair of lavender retro Ray-Ban's for $65! Whaaaat? Get out. And I'll take two.

a. Whats your sunglass style? from Obaz Lookbook
b. Keaton sunglasses at Free People 
c. We Heart It
d. StyleCaster 
e. Hair, Lips, Sunglasses 

For me, the biggest struggle is finding a pair of shades with a shape that is flattering to my five head. Thats right, I have a ginormous forehead. Its ok, I've accepted it. I know many of you have also struggled finding the perfect style for your face shape and luckily, there are mirrors everywhere! Just try them on folks. Thats the only way you are ever going to learn what looks the best on you. I'm giving this common advice because I am totally the customer who never tries anything on and ends up returning items because they looked funky on me.  Below I've included a list of some HOT sunglasses for you to check out. Get it!

1- Ray-Ban 58mm Aviator Sunglasses
2- MARC by Marc Jacos 54mm Retro Sunglasses
3- Kate Spade New York 'Dellas' Sunglasses 
4- H&M Aviator Sunglasses 
5- Madewell Hepcat Shades 
6- Celine Sunglasses

With my upcoming Vegas trip all I can think about is shopping. Shopping for all the outfits I apparently just have to have for a much needed weekend getaway. 

Stay UGLY!

Xx- SN

Not everyone can pull off an ensemble that includes a killer hat. Or can they?.... DUH. Don't anger me. OF COURSE you can pull off any hat style. All you need is a little confidence. Here is proof my friends. Some street style shots where some seriously gorgeous hats are featured.

"The only thing that separates us from animals is our ability to accessorize." That's right, I just got all Claire from 'Steel Magnolias' on you. Isn't it true? We only live once people. You've got to rock a killer hat once in a while. Whenever I feel uninspired or that I've entered a stage of 'identity crisis' I turn to a little visual inspiration. Yes, Pinterest. Judge away. The first time you wear a large fedora, big beanie  or safari style hat you always feel a little insecure. Guess what? The rest of us are looking at you like "damn girl, I need that hat." So just do it. Okay?

It doesn't hurt if you pair some curly yet uncontrived locks under that brim with a jean button up or a loose white tee. Heck pack on some bangles and rings while you're at it. Keep your makeup soft, effortless, and pair it with a little color. Like MAC's 'Ruby Woo' or NARS's 'Dragon Girl.'

I mean, for real. Just look at these images! This accessory doesn't need to be over thought. In fact, it should be just the opposite. So what you're hair is two days old. SO what you had a crazy night last night. No one needs to know. Put on your tattered boyfriend jeans, kitten heels, stripped tee, bright lip, curl those locks, and HAT IT UP. The key here ladies, is to mix fun pieces with an overall laid back look.

If you've learned anything from this, its that you need to rock your brims. Large or small, rock your brims.
Over and out, SN xx

*ALL images sourced from Pinterest HERE.

You know... tuxedo's for women. HOT.

I've been on a rather vigorous hunt for the perfect lady tux ensemble. I am aiming to buy separate pieces from different lines so I can incorporate neon and print into my tuxedo look that I plan on wearing to my girlfriends wedding in May. I've found that unless I plan on spending $1,000 total on this outfit, I will be less than impressed. Seriously? Why do I naturally gravitate towards the high waisted skinny tux pants that are $432? That doesn't even make sense. But I'm telling you, this look is stunning and I plan on incorporating tux like qualities into my wardrobe without emptying my bank account.

Now you'll need to excuse me while I continue my search. Happy Friday! And STAY UGLY.

Xx- SN

We've been seeing a wave of neon for a while now and yes, it WAS "so last summer." 
But guess, what? Its "SO this summer" too. So embrace it. I have! 

When the neon train strolled in I wasn't quite sure I was going to jump aboard. That was until last summer when I treated myself to a gel manicure and rocked some seriously killer neon yellow nails. I wasn't ready for a huge leap and nails did the trick. And they'll do it for you too. If you don't want to flash neon in your ensemble, choose something more subtle like a nail or lip color. Men? please just rock a neon bow tie. Everyone will love it. 
This image captures everything I hope this summer is and more! Water, wet hair, tan skin, perfect complexion  and neon nails. Let a girl dream ok!?

I feel so awkward with the images I've chosen. Although, that in itself is fairly normal. In my day to day life I see the beauty in structured neutrals with solid lines and different hem lengths. But whenever I'm stuck in the darkest circle of the Pinterest abyss, these are the types of looks I find myself swooning over. I LOVE, repeat... LOVE these two outfits. So damn girly in every sense of the word. And I want to eat it for breakfast so I ooze with feminity all day long. Men, these looks may seem over-the-top to you but I promise, sliding into one dress and one pair of heels is a hell of a lot faster than throwing on jeans and a t-shirt. So let us dress up once and a while OK? 

When color blocking was in full swing, I found myself nearly projectile vomiting onto my computer. My head was confused, my heart didn't understand, and I wasn't about to wear a green top, orange bottoms, and neon pink heels. Sorry world, you won't get it from me. These two looks however, I would rock all day long. And just for the record, I've completely warmed up to "color blocking." I've even go so far as to say I've consciously put together outfits for the trend. There I said it. 

The first image is modern chic to a "t". Messy natural waves, classic bold black cat eye glasses, the perfect coral dress, long lean and tan legs, that finish with the most amazing shade of neon yellow-green heels. Yep, I'll take two please.

The second image, who are you? How do your legs look like that? And can we be best friends so I can borrow this dress? Floral dress (with the BEST umbrella shape ever), neon orange bag paired with neon orange heels. Too easy my friends. 

I included these two images just in case you haven't had enough neon yet this morning. Drink it in! 

I love the combination of yellow-green and bright blue. Easily the best neon combo in my opinion. And NO ONE looks like that on the beach. Ever. Sorry. 

My word. Could it be the best fall ensemble with a dash of neon? Why yes, yes it is. Just my style too. I own far too much black. When I saw this outfit I imagined myself getting ready in the morning, naturally gravitating towards everything black in my closet and voila! Who knew a pea green neon skirt was all I needed to mix it up a little bit. I doubt I'd get any phone numbers that day but heck, who needs 'em. I love that every piece in this look is also opaque. So good! And don't even get me going about that shiny black bag.... ugh. This is Neon's day Black. Simmer down, I promise Black will have lots of days.

Get on it my friends! And let me know what neon trends your ALL about. 
xx- SN

*All photos link back to original source.

You either love nerd glasses or you love to hate them.

Aaaah, refreshing. Theres nothing I love more than calling out all you nerd glasses haters. Thats right. Those of you who bash the glorious bold black frames only to find yourselves pining over your own pair daydreaming about what hair style and jacket you would align with them. You think to yourself... "should I go with a classic black frame?... or a bold bright color?... would they make me look like I'm trying too hard?" And while all these thoughts are simmering inside your head, we're all out on the town having fun rocking the darn things. Just GET OVER IT. They are hot and always will be. But by all means, don't wear them. It gives myself more open opportunities to do so.

Best example ever is the image above. Buttoned up polka dot blouse, sleek extreme side part pony, a bold lip, and thick framed black nerd glasses. Sophisticated, sexy, and NEVER trying too hard.

Nerd glasses are the perfect accessory in my opinion. You can wear your hair up, down, or have no hair at all and you instantly look just a tad more appealing. Now what is to argue with there? Even Brigitte Bardot got the sexy nerd glasses memo. My favorite is styling the hair up, grabbing your nerdiest of nerdy glasses, and pairing them with some big and bold earrings. It accentuates your cheekbones, neck line, and collarbones. Yum?

Ladies, do you see how easy your makeup routine can be if you just whip on your nerdy's? Fresh skin (whether its sheer and dewy or full and matte), soft contour to accentuate your bone structure, a dash of blush for a real glow, eye brightener to avoid dark circles and redness, then basic brows, lashes, liner and a full bodied and colorful lip. That is how its done my friends. Instantly sexy. Instantly stylish. Instantly more interesting. 

Now go, get your nerdy's on. 

*click all images for original source. All photos credited.

Now I know all you fashion junkies out there are thinking "Who is this girl? and why is she still talking about Spring fashion?" My only logical retort is "Derrrr, the rest of us on planet earth are celebrating Spring. So get over it and swoon over these pieces from Spring 2013 resort collections please." Someone must have tampered with my coffee this morning because I'm feeling particularly feisty. 

If there's one thing I understand fully about fashion and the cosmetic/beauty industry world its that no matter how hard we try to avoid it, trends follow our current economical and political times. The soft yet bright washes of pastels paired with sheer fabrics and more modern hemlines has quite the modern sixties feel to it. Could it be that our current state of a torn nation, economic and financial crisis, as well as a rise in confrontational topics such as gay marriage, abortion, and women's... ahem, excuse me... equal rights is mirroring the same struggles of the Sixties? Could it be that once again we are seeing that connection and translation through our fashion runways and makeup trends? Or am I just getting ahead of myself? Lets just save my mind and chalk it up to all you people are addicted to pastel once March 1st hits. There's a connection. And thats all I'll say about that. See what I did there?...

Back to fashion. One reason I love this Spring 2013 Resort collection Valentino is because no matter how over-the-top some of these pieces may be, I would wear ANY of them. Even if I'm just running to the post office. The soft wash of pale yellow covered by a sheer white material has such sophisticated yet fun vibe. The short hem line is perfect for adding a bit of sexiness to an other wise Easter morning dress. And then you have it in black. ENOUGH SAID. Gimme. Gimme. Gimme. Yum.

This Spring 2013 Resort collection from Celine is EVERYTHING I ever dreamt about as a child. No seriously though. When I was younger I knew three things that were my ultimate goals in life; 1-I would own my own thriving business, 2- I would be a successful lady walking around my lovely big city wearing all three outfits you see above (not giving a d*** what men find sexy while making every woman pinning to pick through my closet- and you may :)) and 3- (warning: about to get mushy) I would have a wonderful loving partner who was just as motivated, driven, and adventurous as I am. That being said, upon seeing this collection my heart about flew through my chest. Theres not a lot more to say other than this collection is utterly and unequivocally, me. 

Its obvious that for Celine this collection wasn't about creating something new. It was about taking what we've got and whats been hot, and making it better. So, so much better. Leather, polka dots, white-on-white, scarfs, stripes, blazers, and I could go on and on. I adore the long uncontrived hair flowing freely or otherwise tucked into fully wrapped scarf. This collection makes my heart sing.

MAKEUP. Makeup. Makeup. I live for this stuff. 

Three main trends you saw in Spring runway and will continue to see through out the year is as follows:
1- Effortless skin. Freckles in all their glory. Soft yet structured brows and lashes. A titch of bronzer and blush for good measure. And girlfriend, get out your bright lips and nails because they are smokin'. Easily my favorite look. Try MAC's lipsticks in 'Candy Yum Yum' and 'Niki Viva Glam 2' to recreate this look.

2- Effortless skin with an extra dewy highlight. A solid contour to help you amp up that bone structure. Leave your blush at home. Bronzy smoky eye thats got that 'slept in' sort of look. A structured mess if you will. Pack on that mascara and keep the brows soft and groomed.

3-Last but most certainly not least. The 'no makeup' makeup look. I am swooning. In my opinion, its much harder and more creative to create a beautiful 'no makeup' makeup look than it is to pack on something over-the-top and theatrical. I LOVE THIS. - Soft skin. Subtle amounts of a contour and bronzer. Highlighted bone structure. Nothing on the lashes or brows. Dewy pops around the eyes. A strategic amount of lip color to enhance your natural shade. And wonderfully enough, a disconnected winged eyeliner for a bit of everyday elegance and fun.

Spring Fling. I love you.

*Click on images for original source. All photos credited.

Is there anything better than a man in a cardigan? Theres something about an older man rocking his distinguished facial hair, greying locks, and a masculine cardigan that just gets me all hot and bothered. 
And no, I'm not talking about 80 year old men or Mr. Rogers. Just take a looksy below and see what I mean. 
I think you'll happily agree with me. 

Okay, okay. So this gent doesn't quite have silver locks but he's making up for that with all this grey-on-grey action. Grey, its so hot right now. This look is from a new ZARA collection and I pretty much drooled two seconds into viewing it. Although if you know me you know I have a mild illness when it comes to ZARA. Totally obsessed. Can you agree now? Men in cardigans = hot hot hot. I love the business casual feel of this particular look and think the white button up was a perfect pairing in between all the grey.

When it comes to layering I love a good blazer with a button up and a skinny tie. This particular blazer rules because of 1- its unique collar and open neck line, 2- the brown (maybe wood?) buttons, 3- the round hem at the bottom, and 4- the large uniquely placed pockets. The material used offers a more laid back and fashion forward approach to an otherwise business suit look and feel. I LOVE this piece. The entire look is laid back yet structured. Anyone else totally ok with the grey on white paired with a dark tie? Yes please.

Image: Philip Crangi. 

You've probably seen this man before on the internet but if you haven't, you're welcome. He creates fine jewelry and always has impeccable style. He has been featured on 'The Coveteur' for his jewelry designs and more likely than not you've seen his images floating round the Pinterest universe on boards such as 'Men Style' or 'Hey There, Stud'. And for good reason. I love this image of him. He pairs classic pieces with rugged worn out touches and it really doesn't get better folks. Does it need to? He seems like a pretty man who would climb the s*** out of a mountain. Carrying you and the cooler all while having better hair than you.

His peacoat, to me, looks like the perfect shade of navy and only Philip could get away with popping the collar and not look like a complete tool. Oh it DOES get better. Underneath the peacoat there is a light denim jacket and below that jacket is a denim button up shirt. Denim on denim= win. At least in 2013 it does. Dark jeans and cream boots? I could die.

You're kidding me right? Light button up with rolled up sleeves and an unbuttoned collar, yes. Grey vest, yes. Simple dark denim jeans rolled up flood style, oh my. "Sockless" rich brown fancy shoes, now I'm done. I CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF THIS. Men, take some notes. This isn't a hard look to achieve and its so simple and understatedly handsome. The grey hair doesn't hurt. Gentlemen, I promise we love your age and all the awesome silver that comes with it. Stop trying to change that. 

There is a reason I saved this image for last. Its easily the most simple ensemble to base your style around while picking up a few new tips along the way. There is nothing wrong with dressing a little nicer than most every day but don't get me wrong, I love a good jean and t-shirt day. 

Ladies, you're welcome. And men... well you're welcome too. 

I've always been the type of person who finds it painfully difficult to pair words with feelings, instant infatuations, and my inspirations. Basically, I suck at communicating. Over the last couple of years while working in the exhausting world of retail, I started paying attention to marketing and how brands use emotionally driven words to attach you to their product or collection. From what you've seen so far from what I've shared here on UGLY, I'm not a name brand person. I value the vision and hard work of designers and only after I fall in love with a piece at first sight to do turn the garment for a tag to see who created it. 

The images I'm sharing with you today are just a few of the stylish, fun, and boyish pieces I instantly fell for recently. I have no idea who created them, I have no idea who is modeling them, all I know is that they are brilliant. The first image above features an all white jumper of love and joy. The way the top of the jumper accentuates the shoulders, collar bones, then plunges into a deeper neck line is nothing short of sexy and sophisticated. As we get to the pinched and tied high waist that leads into overly long and baggy legs creates the perfect masculine touch in this other wise feminine and dainty piece. I'll be honest, I think the bangles are a little much and the earrings don't even fit in. I love the hair! Replace the long earrings with shiny (maybe expensive?) studs and replace the bangles with lots of layers of soft and dainty bracelets. Oh and a classic watch. Now we've got it.

Today its all about WHITE. Wearing an all white outfit is not only attractive and bold but exudes confidence.
 Photo Credit- I Love Wild Fox.

These three images are making me drool. Just a little bit. Ok, all over. How good are these outfits!? The first image is killing me with how effortlessly chic yet comfortable it looks. Major props to pairing a white beanie with this outfit instead of black or color. I seriously wish this gal had thrown on a white pair of pumps or even white sneakers. Some white Converses would have completed this look. The flowing material of the skirt and top with the pinched waist allows you to feel girly while still comfortable and ugh... you know I'm still swooning over that beanie.

The second image is easily my favorite of the bunch. SO so so my style. The asymmetrical blazer, baggy white tee, good quality large flowing bottoms, white shoes, paired with a black clutch and amber toned sunnies. STOP IT. Whats a girl gotta do to have this hanging in her closet? Who do I need to become best friends with? Guess I'll need to get creative an put a look together for myself inspired from this. The hair is perfection as well. Parted down the center, pulled softly into what I'm visualizing is a messy and effortless bun, then soft stringy pieces hanging in the front. Enough said.

Ah image three. Last but not least. Again, a seriously killer white top. What I love most about this photo is the makeup that they paired with the clothes. Natural, flawless, and uncontrived skin, no color in sight, perfected brow, soft nude lip, and hello! Gorgeous bold matte black winged liner. 

White people. Get on it.

Photo Credit 1, 2, 3.

In my opinion, when it comes to style and fashion, there is nothing better than the harmonious union of over-the-top, glitzy, flashy pieces mixed with simple (almost comfortable) pieces that carry a humble yet chic and elegant air. Take the two top images for example. Both looks are fashion forward, sophisticated, and are top of the line quality. They are comfortable yet unique and still accentuate the feminine silhouette. 

What initially drew me to these two looks was the play on lines and shapes. I love the long open slit on the blue cardigan mixed with the high square collar. If you're going to keep it simple, make it interesting. With the second grey top, again.. the hem lines. Wonderful! Also, those sleeves?? Get out of here. 
*Images credited 1, 2. 

If we're going to chat about the perfect mixture of femininity and comfort, then let's rock these three looks from the DKNY S2013 RTW collection. How are you not drooling over these pieces right now? Let alone the entire vibe of the collection. If I can pull off looking like a tomboy and feeling classy and sexy at the same time you better believe I will be ALL over that. Yes, DKNY. I'll take one of everything please. 

What I also found fascinating about this collection was the simple use of black and white with more of an emphasis in materials used, hem lines, and dramatic styles such as the high slits, strong square shoulders, and the wedge/hightop/Back-to-the-Futuresque sneakers. Theres really nothing more timeless than this look. Or more fun, am I right?

*Images Creditd 1, 2, 3.

Now, for some drama. My heart might explode over this first image you see here. The design, the print, the embellishments, the round collar emphasizing collar bones, the fringe, the white bottoms, the rings, oh my. My, oh my. You can't look at this ensemble and not fall in love. Doesn't hurt that they paired a killer hair and makeup job with this shot. Or that the model has the best white blonde hair on this planet. I would gladly go grocery shopping in this disgustingly expensive outfit. Who wouldn't?

Its not often you can rock a bustier in your everyday attire. The right hand image may be a more over-the-top version of how you and I would style this look for our errands but ladies, it can be done! Keep it neutral. The use of blush and white with a dash of cream is perfection. Not overly dramatic with color and the blazer keeps it professional and humble. And heck, why not throw a mix of that DKNY collection into this look and rock it with a hat and sneakers. I know I would. 
*Images Credited 1, 2.

When it comes to style and fashion, what are YOU naturally drawn to? The mysterious, dark, and artistic styles of Alexander McQueen and Mugler? or the whimsical, romantic, and luxurious collections of Alice + Olivia and BCBG Max Zaria?