Tuesday, November 9, 2010
The "Perfect Block"
Never has a single image captured my heart in it's entirety until I discovered Larry Wamble's 'Perfect Block' drawing of Baton Rouge. As a Baton Rouge native and LSU Alum, I have an unmatched love for anything related to the city I call home. The print features all of my favorite local places, including my absolute favorite hang out in college - Bogie's Bar.
Wamble's 'Perfect Blocks' started from an incredibly thoughtful gift to his wife featuring all of their local favorites in Oxford, Mississippi. It wasn't long before Larry was creating 'Perfect Blocks' for cities and college towns all over the country. And, luckily if you don't find your favorite city in Larry's image catalog, a commissioned print is just an e-mail away!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Sophisticated Nomad
Lydia Hobo Bag - Madewell necklaces - Shortcut bootie - BDG denim legging - cropped sleeve blouse - Starr engraved cuff - Desert Drifter cardi - feather earrings
Thursday, November 4, 2010
A frank and serious conversation about the one thing that can save your life.
Dry Shampoo.
Now, as a blonde with fine hair (don't get me wrong, I can absolutely tease it to the moon - it's a smoke and mirrors situation giving me all of the volume I achieve - you're all aware of my commitment to Ellnet) I have been cursed with the end-of-the-day lack luster, borderline grease pit most blondes face. Which, in my young, inexperienced junior high and high school days meant, on Fridays, I would take a shower in the morning - wash, blow dry and style my hair - and then repeat the whole hour long process after school to make it out in time for what I'm positive were spectacular Friday night plans.
Now, some of you might be thinking, "why wouldn't she just use the ol' baby powder trick?" to all of you I'd like to confirm: I was VERY familiar with the baby powder trick, but we all know, that's an in-an-emergency-I-need-to-be-somewhere-in-5-minutes fix, and I can't think of anyone wanting to walk around trying to impress anybody smelling like a baby's bottom. Except for maybe those of you over the age of 12 that think wearing Love's BabySoft is still appropriate - which is another issue entirely.
Since baby powder refuses to come in any other scent but baby powder, I was determined to find something that would de-grease my hair without leaving said fragrance. Enter Clubman's Talc Powder. I discovered Clubman's while getting a heinous updo for Homecoming in the 10th grade. It couldn't have been more of a Godsend! It did the exact same thing baby powder did but didn't smell like a baby!! I felt like my search was finally over. But, after the occasional Clubman's snafu, usually consisting of using too much, resulting in what I can only describe as a powdered wig that smelled like a 1940s barber shop, I grew tired of Clubman's and turned down a path of determination so fierce, I'd honestly be scared to add up how much money I have wasted on dry-shampoos over the years.
Bumble & Bumble's hair powder
More like spray paint for your hair. Makes hair sticky and leaves a weird color residue. Also, I caution anyone to actually venture out and use the colored versions. That to me just spells Halloween disaster, where instead of springing for the $40 hot pink wig, you thought you could get away with the $3 can of pink hairspray. Just buy the wig.
Oscar Blandi's dry shampoo
I absolutely love this product, however, I don't love that it is $22 a can/bottle. I do have the sprinkle cap (aerosol tends to clog) currently in my hair arsenal, however, it's a last resort. The light lemon scent is nice too because it's not at all overpowering and does help neutralize last night's bar hair smell.
TRESemme dry shampoo
The smell is WAY too overpowering. It's as if you've actually put the fragrance concentrate for TRESemme in your hair. Also, the degreasing benefits only last around 2-3 hours. You're not getting past lunch with this bad boy.
Rene Furterer Naturia dry shampoo
Don't be fooled by the Parisian label. This is simply an $8 waste of time. While the scent is subtle and clean, it leaves a thick, powdery film on your hair.
Any and all "refreshing mists"
Mix some leave in conditioner with water in a spray bottle and you'll get the same effect. I've tried just about every refreshing mist under the sun and the only benefit I've found from using them is removing smells from hair. None, I repeat, NONE remove oil.
Pssssst Dry Shampoo (aka the best hair product ever invented)
I'm not exaggerating when I tell you that Pssssst is the single best thing to ever happen to my hair. Every single one of my girlfriends I have turned on to Pssssst have been instant believers and swear by it. It's $6 at CVS or Walgreens. There was a Bed Bath & Beyond that carried it, but was discontinuing to carry it a few weeks ago, and had it on sale for $2 a can. I was with my best friend, and fellow Pssssst devotee, and we cleaned them out. 9 cans to be exact. Besides being able to Pssssst and re-Pssssst your hair without issue, it's virtually unscented, doesn't leave a thick residue and leaves your hair soft and ready to restyle (if you even need to) after use. Pssssst is a life saver.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Re-Introducing: Southern Flair!
Hi! I have MISSED this little blog! It's been a while since I last posted something truly inspired, so I thought I would start off my re-commitment to Southern Flair with a post featuring some of my favorite finds in my inspiration folder. This post is also slightly sentimental, because I decided to name each picture after all of my most inspiring friends. This is for the girls that keep me fun, light-hearted, loved, grounded, wild and above all continue to remind me how lucky I am to have friends like them!
This one's for you.
Ainsley
Alex
Emily J
Emily M
Jess
Lindsey
Molly
Megan
Lauren R
Erin
Natalie
Lauren B
Kristen
All of you make my life more...
richly wonderful
unmistakably fun
subtly sweet
and classically pretty.
My apologies for not having the correct citations for any of the above images. If I have used your image, please contact me at allison@csflair.com and I will absolutely give you proper credit. Thank you.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Sunday, January 3, 2010
You've never felt so sassy...
I am a devoted Bare Minerals girl and ALWAYS swirl on a tiny bit of warmth after applying my foundation. Then, depending on the season, I layer on either Tarte Cheek Stain in Sunkissed (warm weather) or Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Bronze (cold weather). I like the stain for the summer because it works well with humidity and stays on really nicely, the brick works best in colder weather when skin is a little dry because it sits on top of the skin, disguising the cold weather lack-luster. I highly recommend investing in both!
Monday, December 28, 2009
New Years Resolution...
Alright, I realize that my last post is from SEPTEMBER – which honestly is unacceptable. I have been so busy trying to get acclimated in my role at a new job, then there was Christmas, the list goes on. I know ya’ll are really busy too, so you can relate to the fact that something had to give, and unfortunately that something, for me, was Southern Flair. HOWEVER, I have decided that my New Years resolution will be to blog… more. I would make a flippant promise to post every week, or a certain amount a month, or I could get really overly ambitious and promise to make a post everyday. But, when I set a goal, I like it to be attainable (and it’s unlikely I’ll be less “busy” in 2010) – so here it is, my New Years resolution:
I promise to blog more.
That being said, I still have 3 days to be a delinquent blogger, enjoy what’s left of 2009, prepare for New Years Eve and the start of a new decade...
What’s your resolution?
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Loving...
Since I am super busy with my new job, I only have time to leave you with a new set of my current must-haves...
JCrew Straw Trilby Hat, so adorably simple and pairs perfectly with a t-shirt and jeans - Dean & Wood Sunglasses, the perfect mix of vintage preppy - Monogrammed round signet ring, a classic - Target's NP Set Lipstick in Denver, a sheer, nude pink that looks fresh with a touch of bronzer and mascara - Cableknit Cowlneck sweater, wonderfully slouchy and very wear-right-now - Timex Military Watch, a reproduction of a 1940s Military issue Timex, love love love - Moccasins with gorgeous Native American detailings, lovely with jeans and a slouchy sweater
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Current must-haves...
Here are a few of the things I am currently addicted to and/or obsessed with...
Kiehl's Mahvelous Mauve Lip Gloss, the perfect nude-berry color - Kilim coasters made from Kilim rugs, ethnic and chic - a Tervis Tumbler filled with my favorite iced-cold beverage - OPI Java Mauva nail lacquer, sophisticated and current - an engraved leather bracelet with my name on it, I've had since high school, bought in Underground Atlanta for $8 - Sperry Saybrook Sandal, as comfortable as the original boat shoe but perfect for summer - Almost Bare by Bobbi Brown, a clean scent that smells light and pretty but lingers all day, in the most perfect way
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Southern-inspired Tervis Tumblers
I am a huge fan of Tervis Tumblers! But now, I can safely say I am OBSESSED with them! Tervis has recently come out with a slew of Southern-inspired designs and I plan on snagging them all...
I love Tervis for multiple reasons:
1. Their 24oz is the perfect size for the car
2. They're insulated and don't "sweat"
3. Since they don't sweat, they don't leave ugly rings on my table
4. They can be personalized (loving that monogram)
5. They have a LIFETIME GUARANTEE!!
I highly recommend Tervis to everyone looking for some everyday drinkware. Check the "store locator" on Tervis' website to find a retailer near you!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
For the love of cupcakes...
I was in search of a thoughtful gift for someone who has helped me immeasurably over the past few months in my coming to grips with the fact that I am no longer in college, looking for a job and just encouraging me to put myself out there. My original thought was cupcakes, because they are her absolute favorite thing on earth, but we had just finished scarfing down cake after cake with graduation and birthday celebrations, so I settled on this adorable wooden plaque from Etsy. I think it is the perfect way to say thank you to someone who helps me "keep calm"...
MOH
My best friend is engaged!!! And I was lucky enough to be asked to be the MAID OF HONOR!!! I am so excited - I love them both very much and couldn't be happier for them! I will make sure to post about all of my planning, because as you know I'll be responsible for the shower and bachelorette party!! YAY! The best part... She's thinking - NEW YEARS EVE WEDDING!!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Instant + Perfect Gifts
Ever find yourself in need of a gift - very last minute? Well look no further than Oooh la la – Cadeau! Sande Chase has created a gift for just about anyone and any occasion. Her gifts come ready to give - thoughtfully selected and exquisitely wrapped. Each gift's presentation is as beautiful as the contents, and her website makes finding the perfect gift a snap! Organized by size and occasion, you'll never be stranded without a proper present again! Here are a few of the gorgeous "Hostess Gifts" you can find on Oooh la la...
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
1970s Disco Pimp...
...What would happen if my 16-year-old little sister was allowed to redecorate her entire room - all by herself. She has recently developed an infatuation with all things bright pink and zebra... Luckily (or so I would like to believe), Pop (that's my baby-sister) has me as her personal decorator! I put together ump-teen storyboards for her room until we had reached one that was equal parts stylish and equal parts pink-black-and-white-zebra-explosion. All of the room planning took place before she left for a two-week stay at camp. Immediately, we Designed-On-A-Dime/Trading-Spaces this mama all week, so the room will be all set to be revealed Friday, when she gets home from camp. Since she is in the wilderness until Friday, I am sharing her room re-do (and failed storyboards) with you now (with real pictures and before/after to come soon)! The room isn't 100% complete, we are still looking for a new, taller dresser (Ikea has a serious possibility) and a new TV stand thing, but it's looking pretty stinkin' good!Failed designs:
You can tell which one is mostly designed for me (#3 in the failed category)...
Friday, June 5, 2009
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Monday, June 1, 2009
Sunday, May 31, 2009
California: Day 3 - San Diego Zoo
That is my hilarious aunt in the corner - she was very excited to be at the zoo... ha!
This morning we got up at the crack of 9am (I consider that early when vacationing...) and drove to the San Diego Zoo! I was very excited since it is supposed to be amazing... and... it was!! Number one, it's HUGE - and we have the Atlanta Zoo, which is pretty big - but I'm not sure it can compete with San Diego.
Number two, when you first walk in, you are surrounded by GORGEOUS peacocks (I think you are all aware of my peacock fetish)...
Number three, there was an entire family of monkeys!!!
One of the younger monkeys was so cute - showing off, doing backflips for the crowd!While we were there, we took the "Skyfari" across the zoo, which gives you an aerial view of all of the animals, and gives you a nice little break from walking in ridiculous, but adorable wedges that you decided to wear to the zoo.. Like an idiot.
When we were all zooed out we drove through Balboa park and wished we could have stopped and wandered through all of the museums, but we had to make it back in time for me to make delicious pasta salad to go with some yummy grilled chicken made by my Dad and uncle.
Pasta Salad Recipe
1 pkg whole-wheat bowtie pasta, prepared as directed
1 pkg (7 oz) prepared refrigerated pesto
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (this absorbs into the pasta, so you can add more if needed after refrigeration)
1 tbsp Caesar dressing
1 pkg baby Roma tomatoes, quartered
1 cup green onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pkg Julienne cut sun-dried tomatoes, rough chop
1/2 small can diced black olives
1 pkg pine nuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
salt & pepper to taste
I modeled this recipe after the pesto pasta salad at Le Madeline's - fave. It makes a TON, serve cold - perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
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