The Life of a city PA- Secrets Exposed

Mimco sale!!!!!!!

So if you don't already know, or you have hit up the sale already... I have two words for you, Mimco Sale... Yes loves Mimco is having their sale and yes my weekend saw me spend half my pay cheque on a few bags, how often does Mimco go on sale?!?! Well, that's my excuse anyway, and every girl deserves a bag, clutch, wallet and tote that makes her happy! And yes I will be checking my post box every day this week like a little school girl excited to receive a letter.

However, the financial state of my after Mimco sale excitement has hit me hard. My credit card was charged because of my dwindling saving account. Between, rent, food, transport, repayments, phone bill and designing clothing and my "out of the blue" late night spending sprees there isn't much left over to put into my saving account. So I am sitting here going through the fact that I need to save money. I think many of you are feeling that same. That dream apartment in the CBD isn't going to buy itself neither is my dream Audi, Range Rover or BMW.

So, I am vowing to you that I will not have any more of my crazy lady online or in store purchases. I will only buy items that are needed not wanted for a whole three months. My boyfriend thinks I have no chance and will crack over the weekend when walking through the Woolloongabba antique store. I am also cutting down on buying lunch at work, I will prepare it, maybe even loose some weigh by eating healthier. And I am saying goodbye to buying my two cups of coffee and have limited myself to one Suite Commuter Coffee on the way to work every morning.

So this is my vow to you for three months I am going to be a smart saver. Join me if you dare! Would love to hear your simple ways to save a dollar, a girl that saves is a girl that has brains!Share your thoughts on facebook!

Quiz: Which designer is what?

Which Designer is this?

a. Gucci

b. Miu Miu

c. Dolce and Gabbana

a. Chanel

b. Prada

c. Dolce and Gabbana

 

a. Louis Vuitton

b. Prada

c. Dolce and Gabbana

Answers: 1. Gucci 2. Dolce and Gabbana 3. Prada

The Life of a city PA- Secrets Exposed

So I find myself sitting here on a Monday afternoon in my office cubical my boss somewhat of a brilliant man, no fashion sense and no clue of a real relationship or how one works, sitting in his overly large office with his head lost in his laptop probably reading a large case brief about some poor lady who he plans to tare shreds off in court...

I have Elise a 25 year old, in the cubical to my left whom is known around the office as one of the best up and coming lawyers in the firm, however I know her as having one of the biggest mouths in the firm. Great for when you need every one to know   about something asap, a nightmare when you really don't want anyone to know something and somehow "Big Mouth Elise" gets hold of the info and like a gun shoots it around without any concerns who finds out.

Then there is Mike sitting across the way also a hard hitting lawyer type whom has impeccable taste in fashion, food and everything to do around town, some would think only a gay man would have such great taste however get to know him and under that fab style and class he is just " One of the guys".... Drinks after work seem to prove this!

To the office in the corner with that great view of the city is a Christian Louboutin wearing, luxe Louis Vuitton carrying, only will wear designer labels female executive, Amy. I race to work from my somewhat pointless train ride ( I mean I board the train at less than 15 km from the city and it takes over 30mins to the city by train, need I say more) I race to work to see Amy arrive to work, and when she arrives its like a fashion show, while I am drooling and growing even more jealous by the minute over her amazing clothing, bags or killer heels that I only seem to be able to afford on ebay and at the really really amazing sales in December or digging through a thrift bin. I one day aspire to be like Amy well I aspire to have Amy wardobe one day! Amy is amazing, smart and somewhat of a killer in the lawyer world. She arrives into work at 7:30am and does not leave her office until 6pm sometimes I think she is a robot. Seriously who can pull off being amazing and smart at work and dressing like a model everyday! I barely have enough tim to pick up a new pair of Tony Bianco's on the weekend let alone seem to have an endless supply of designer clothing.

Among many others on our floor my life revolves around being somewhat of a "slave" to these people and in the next few weeks I am going to write about the lives of these people as any PA will known you get to know all the in's and out's being a PA to some of Brisbane's elite!

So buckle your self's in fellow fashion lovers, office slaves and anyone who wants a good laugh because I am armed with secretes and a lap top and I am prepared to use them! Until next Monday I wish you a happy week! CC x

Budget Beauty Thrills: Dry Chapped Skin

Avocados and honey are particularly moisturizing. This mask is particularly great for mature, wrinkled and dry skin. It's best to use a ripe, fresh, organic avocado. Make sure to mash it up into a creamy pulp.


Avocados are also great for deep conditioning dry hair. See my avocado and banana hair mask recipe.

Ingredients:

•½ avocado

•¼ cup honey

Preparation:

A classic recipe for dry skin. Mash the avocado in a bowl, then stir in honey.

Apply to skin and leave for 10 minutes.

Rinse face with a cool washcloth.
 

Ingredients:

•1 tsp powdered milk

•1 tbsp runny honey

•1 tsp aloe vera gel

•2 drops essential oil

Preparation:

This is a classic milk mask for the face. Mix ingredients well, apply to face, let sit for 15 minutes, wash off with warm water. This recipe is enough for two. (Note: The original recipe called for 1 tbsp pulverized almonds, but I have removed it from the ingredients list because almonds, no matter how pulverized, can tear at skin).

 

Brown sugar is a wonderful natural exfoliant that works for all skin types. I adapted this recipe from one suggested by Lena Korres, founder of Korres Natural Products, and makeup artist Jemima Kidd, in the July 2008 issue of Cosmopolitan. They recommend curing chapped lips by mixing brown sugar with honey and massaging into lips.

Ingredients:

•1 tablespoon brown sugar

•1 tsp (more or less, add drops if you need them) of olive oil or extra virgin coconut oil

Preparation:

Put the brown sugar in your palm

Add the olive or coconut oil

Stir in your palm with your finger, creating a paste.

Add or less as needed

Massage into skin in a circular motion.

Rinse off with warm water.

Press a warm washcloth into face.

Slather your skin in your favorite moisturizer or follow with a moisturizing mask.

Isnt this interesting!!!!!!

I came across this and to any one thinking that the fashion industry is all glamour and money it is not beware of the job you choose if you in it for the money you wont be hanging around in the fashion scene for long!

Part 2: BUDGET Beauty THRILLS!! Combination Skin

Oily, Acne-Prone Skin

Banana Mask for Oily Skin

This is a soothing face mask and great if you have bananas around the house.

Bananas are great for the hair, too. See my Banana & Avocado Deep Conditioning Treatment for Dry Hair recipe.

Ingredients:

•1 banana, preferably ripe (you can keep ripe bananas in the freezer. Let it thaw before using)

•1 tbsp honey

•An orange or a lemon

Preparation:

Mix the banana and honey together.

Add a few drops of juice from an orange or a lemon.

Apply to face for 15 minutes before rinsing with a cool washcloth or a steaming warm washcloth.
Aspirin Mask for Healing Pimples, Acne Crush aspirin and mix in water/oil/honey for a mask meant to dry up pimples. Makeupalley.com users swear by this mask (out of 2030 reviewers at the time of this writing, a whopping 85 percent said they would "try it again").

Strawberry Mask for Acne-Prone Skin

Apparently, aspirin is brilliant at spot-treating pimples, clearing up acne and itchy patches. In fact, the aspirin mask gets more than 2030 reviews -- more than any individual makeup, skincare or hair product -- on Makeupalley so I had to share it with you because 85 percent of these reviews are by women who would "try it again." Keep in mind that I haven't had my own pimple to try this on, so I don't have personal experience with aspirin as a pimple-healer. But here's how it's purported to work.

Prep Time: 7 minutes

Total Time: 7 minutes

Ingredients:

•1-3 aspirin

•Coffee cup or glass cup

•Shallow dish

•Warm honey (runny honey), moisturizer made for the face or natural oil such as almond, olive or coconut

Preparation:

•Depending on the amount of coverage needed, use 1-3 aspirin.

•Crush the aspirin into small pieces by rolling a coffee cup or glass cup over them. Place aspirin in a shallow dish.

•Stir in a few drops of water to help the aspirin dissolve into a paste.

•Add warm honey, moisturizer or a bit of oil (almond, olive or coconut works). Stir well.

•Apply as a mask or spot treat the pimple or itchy area. Allow to dry. Wash off after 10 minutes.

Green Clay Mask for Oily Skin Types

When it comes to face masks, there's no better clay than green clay, also known as "bentonite." This purifying mask is wonderful for oily skin and was adapted from a recipe found in the book, "Natural Beauty Recipe Book."


You can get all of these ingredients in any natural food store or online. You can get the apricot kernel oil and the palmarosa essential oil online.

Ingredients:

•1 tbsp green clay (you can get this in any health store)

•1 tsp apricot kernel oil

•3 drops of palmarosa essential oil

Preparation:

Mix the palmarosa and apricot oils together. Add a few drops of warm water. Mix together and add more water if need be to get a good, spreadable paste. Apply mask. Let dry for 10 minutes. Rinse off with a warm washcloth.

Camelia Carlton Presents Our Newest Addition to the Collection

Its a great pleasure to show you our newest addition to the Camelia Carlton Range! Very exciting NEWS! These bags were first introduced to the public at the Young Designer Markets at South Bank, and they were a hit/ show stopper everybody stopping in their tracks to see our amazing new bags! With four different designs and patterns! Get yours today and stand out in Brisbane! Have yourself a very unique and individual bag!

Part 1: BUDGET Beauty THRILLS!! All skin types

Its important to feel comfortable in your own skin, and feeling comfortable and confident starts with a good skin regime. In the next few weeks I will highlight different skin types and give home made mask recipes to ensure you have glowing skin that will make you feel amazing inside and out! Hey why pay for a face mask when you can use basic ingredients found around the house to make your own simple, hydrating masks and scrubs? If you have oily or acne-prone skin, mud or clay-based masks are great for balancing out your skin. Dry skin will benefit from hydrating masks made from glycerin, honey and oils. Ginseng or green tea masks are great for soothing sensitive skin. Scrubs are great for getting rid of the dead skin. Try one prior to applying a face mask

Homemade or store bought masks should stay on for 10-15 minutes. Below are some great masks for all different skin types.

All Skin Types

Egg White Face Mask for All Skin Types:

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Total Time: 2 minutes Ingredients:

•2 egg whites, separated from the yolk and placed in a bowl

•2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (I like Greek yogurt)

Preparation:

Separate the egg whites from a couple eggs and place them in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt (do not use flavored yogurt!). Mix them up and apply to face. Leave on face for a few minutes then rinse face in warm water, followed by a warm washcloth.

Oatmeal and Yogurt Mask

This is a great basic face mask that includes just 3 basic ingredients.This face mask is suitable for all skin types and is super simple to prepare. It will cleanse and rejuvenate your skin.

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes Ingredients:

•1 tbsp oatmeal, finely ground

•1 tbsp live, organic yogurt (skip the flavored stuff)

•A few drops of honey

Preparation:

Add the yogurt to the oatmeal in a small bowl and mix together.

Warm a few drop of honey. To do this, warm a spoon under hot water for a minute, then add a few drops of honey to the spoon.

Stir the honey into the yogurt and oatmeal mixture.
Apply the mask to the face. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse off with several splashes of warm water. Follow with a warm washcloth.
Apply moisturizer.

White Sugar Scrub

 Sugar is a preferred exfoliant to salt because it tends not to tear at the skin. When dead skin collects on the surface of skin, it's important to slough it away. This helps clear up clogged pores. When skin isn't exfoliated, it can appear ashy.

Ingredients:

•2 tbsp sugar

•3 tbsp warm water

Preparation:

Stir sugar into warm water so that it melts.

Make sure granules are dissolved, otherwise they could tear your skin.

Apply to the face.

Gently massage around the skin.

Rinse with warm water OR I like to take a warm washcloth that's steamed in the microwave. Make sure the washcloth is not too hot.

Rejuvenating Pumpkin Mask

Pumpkin pulp is full of antioxidants. Pumpkin is loaded with natural exfoliating acids and antioxidants. It will brighten, calm breakouts, and soften the appearance of fine lines and sun damage.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes Ingredients:

•1/2 cup fresh pumpkin pulp

•2 eggs

•2 teaspoon almond milk (for dry or combo skin)

•1 teaspoon honey (for dry skin)

•2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or cranberry juice (if you have oily skin)

Preparation:

Purée the fresh pumpkin pulp into a thick paste. Add the egg (this acts as a binder). If your skin is dry, stir in a splash of omega-rich almond milk and the honey. For oilier complexions, instead stir in apple cider vinegar or cranberry juice. Mix well. Apply the mask, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes, depending on your skin sensitivity. Rinse with cool water and moisturize as usual.

Yogurt Face Mask for All Skin Types

This refreshing face mask is made up of only 2 ingredients.This simple (only two ingredients!) cooling mask is great for soothing a sun burnt face. It's great for all skin types.

Prep Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours Ingredients:

•1 tbsp natural yogurt, room temperature (not low fat or non-fat, I like the Greek yogurt )

•1 tsp runny honey (microwave for a few minutes to soften hardened honey)

Preparation:

Combine mixture, then apply to face.

Let sit for 15 minutes.

Wash face with steaming washcloth.

For dry skin, use an extra tsp of honey.

Oily skin? Add a few drops of fresh lime juice.

Next week we will tackle oily and acne prone skin. Until then enjoy making these amazing little facials!

Master Class- Its a Brow kinda World!

A good brow will make an outfit! Especially in your Camelia Carlton digs! So I have compiled a few little handy hints to keep them brows looking their best you will not only be the best dressed around town in Camelia Carlton but you will also have the best brows in Brisbane, enjoy all the compliments ladies!!! Xx

Step 1: Plan.

Just like hitting up the Boxing Day sales, grooming your eyebrows requires good strategy. Mark in a guide lightly with a brow pencil before you even touch tweezers, so you know where to pluck.

Step 2: Pluck.

Tweeze below the brow, but continue to check the shape as you go. It’s important to work in natural light, to give you a clear view of what you’re plucking. “If you can’t see every single hair, it’s a bit like doing surgery in the dark never a good idea!!!”

Tip: Apply a warm washcloth to brows pre-tweeze. It’ll help loosen the hair and dial down the pain.

Step 3: Wax.

“For a polished look, waxing above your brow is a must. Regular strips from the chemist are great for whisking away stray hairs that make the top of your brows look fuzzy,” says Morgan.

Tip: For extra precision, cut your wax strips to shape — tiny rectangles work well, and you can take off what you want, without touching what you don’t.

Step 4: Fill.

“Use powder instead of a pencil; it’ll blend more easily for a natural result. But keep it light — the aim is for them to still look like your own. Start mid-brow and move towards the tail, using small strokes that mimic hair growth.”

Tip: Look for an ashy-hued powder in a shade lighter than your brows; warm tones can be too obvious.

Step 5: Finish.

Run a brush through to take away any excess powder, then comb in a gel to set your work in place.

Enjoy, CC Xx



Fashion Tips, Tricks and All Things Girly- The BIKINI!

My mother always would say be comfortable in your own skin, however weekend after weekend I find myself watching Fashion TV and watching these girls strut down run ways perfectly dressed with amazing bodies. Going to the beach just seems like a big fat NO NO! So with the help of my girlfriends and a little positive thinking I have gathered a list of the best bikini shapes for all different sizes! No more feeling awful just get out there and enjoy the beautiful sunny weather in Oz.

Athletic

Bright colours and busy textures add extra oomph to a straight frame.

Choose ruffled layers to boost a small bust.

Wide, hipster briefs play up your lean bod and keep the look from being too matchy-matchy.

Pear-shaped

Flaunt your décolletage , and even proportions using retro shapes and dark colours.

A sweetheart neckline will visually enhance the bust.

High-waisted bottoms offer coverage that suits pin-up curves.

Curvy

Look for vintage styles, clever details and hard-working, super-supportive fabrics.

A halter neckline will draw the eye to your décolletage and frame your neck and collarbones.

Low-cut one-pieces sculpt a smooth, hourglass silhouette.

Skinny

Amp up the sex appeal with feminine embellishments that give curves an extra boost.

Try a twisted bandeau to exaggerate your curves.

Skinny, hipster briefs will flatter your lean silhouette.

Busty

Hi-tech fabrics and underwire support your bust without sacrificing style.

Try a fixed triangle top with in-built cups to hold you in.

Boy-leg briefs sculpt a sexy bottom half and balance your silhouette.

Enjoy Ladies!!!! Xx CC



Sun Lily- Safe, affordable and fast!

Summer is defiantly upon us, holidays, festivals and the party season, life seems all so great! Until you realize how your pale white skin will look with that amazing burnt Orange frock you picked up! Wow! A thought rushes through your mind, "if i spend the whole day at the beach minus the sunscreen maybe ill work up enough tan to pull the dress off.." The next thought is a vision of you looking just as burnt as your new beautiful burnt orange dress. Not going to work, next, " I could run down to the chemist and grab a bottle of tan.." Yes all seems like a great idea at the time but them you get tan all over your bathroom (next thing you know your boyfriend or room mates are complaining about the stained brown tiles you now have in your bathroom, which might I add take a heck of a lot of scrubbing) No that just wont do, then you remember Sun Lily, ah where would Brisbane be without Sun Lily! It is the most efficient sunless spray tan you will ever have, Owner, Grace Davis offers both studio and mobile spray tanning! Yes this is perfect just what you need and just in time, this girl is on the ball contactable both by email and phone, she will be your spray tan savior!

What are you waiting for it is the middle of festival and party season call Sun Lily today! And you will never feel white and pasty again only thing to look forward to is being that bronze goddess of the party! Camelia Carlton swear by it!!!!! Xx

Tip Top Shape?? 2012 Resolutions

Sitting around a table of friends asking what is your New Years Resultions, with the odd they are crap people never stick to them remarks, came about much conversation about being fit and in shape for 2012. Alike mine I am forever wanting to be fit healthy and happy, so in serch of ticking these off my list I have gathered some information for all you other people who are searching to be fit, healthy and happy this 2012.

A few basics:

1. Cardio to burn calories and help your heart and lungs work more efficiently,
2. Strength training to build lean muscle tissue while strengthening your bones, muscles and joints, flexibility exercises to improve your range of motion, and rest so your body can recover and grow stronger.


I love love love to run and take the dog for a stroll around the city! A goal is to run the Gold Coast Half Marathon join in if you wish!!!

To get in Shape With Cardio Exercise

Cardio exercise includes any rhythmic activity that gets you into your target heart rate zone. The options are endless, including walking, running, aerobics, cycling, swimming and dancing. You can even use daily chores like raking leaves or shoveling snow, if you can keep the movement consistent enough to raise your heart rate.

How to get started:

1.Choose any cardio activity that's accessible and enjoyable.
2.Schedule your cardio workouts for at least 3 days a week.
3.Begin your workout with a comfortable 5-10 minute warm up to gradually increase your heart rate.
4.Increase your intensity by going faster, adding hills, resistance or incline (or a combination) until you're just out of your comfort zone (Level 5 or 6 on the Perceived Exertion Scale).
5.Maintain that pace for 15-30 minutes or for as long as you can, adjusting your intensity as needed to stay at Level 5 or 6.
6.End your workout with a cool down and stretch.
7.Each week, increase your workout time by a few minutes until you can work continuously for 30 minutes a session.
8.Progress by adding more workout days, trying new activities and/or adding more intensity.

MAKE IT FUN! Go do things with girl friends Boot camps are great for this type of thing!

Get in Shape with Strength Training

The other part of your workout program is strength training with a focus on working all the major muscle groups. And just to be frank you will never bulk up if is physically impossible for women! Now we have that out of the way; How to get started:
1.Choose about 8-10 exercises, targeting the major muscle groups, including the lower body, chest, back, shoulders, biceps, triceps and abs.
2.If you're a beginner, do 1 set of 15 reps for each exercise. Choose weights that allow you to complete 15 reps - the last rep should be hard, but not impossible.
3.Do your strength workout 2-3 times a week with at least one day of rest in between.
4.Progress each week by adding a set (until you're up to a total of 3 sets per exercise), using heavier weights or trying new exercises.

Look Great while working out not too hard when you have Camelia Carlton! Blingy and colourful just what you need when hitting the gym in style in 2012! Xx



Fashion Designer? How to be one?

The fashion world is ruthless, and one that can take many years of hard work sweat and tears to get any where in it! Like a secret club that has one of those unbelievable entrance rules once your in you are in and on the way to great things.

In an effort to start 2012 off with a bang I have decided to share a little story of where some of the worlds best designers started and what types of jobs and studies they pursued. It is always great to see how other people got the being so great, think about it then take a leap and jump on into making your own story that someone will read one day and be inspired! Lets get to it!

If your like me and weren't born into royalty (as much as we tell ourselves we are a princess), money, fashionistas or lords and ladies, many of our innovative and leading fashion designers were not either. Take for instance probably the most iconic woman within the fashion world, Gabrielle Bonheur otherwise known as Coco Chanel, she started her career within the fashion industry as a clerk in a hosiery store. Manolo Blahnik was a jeans buyer for a local jean factory. Our jobs don't look so bad now do they! Christian Dior wasn't even in the fashion industry being an art dealer. Miuccia Prada was on the path of a science career with a PhD.

Getting back to Coco Chanel, she became a seamstress at age 18 she then met a man whom was quite wealthy and she became his mistress. Enjoy a life filled with diamonds, pearls and all things lavish at the age of 23. While enjoy a comfortable life style Coco began to make hats, all while her relationship was on the rocks she met a man who was willing to buy an apartment and shop for Coco to start her own business making hats. Coco became a licensed hat maker in 1910. Within the few years of opening this little hat shop business was booming with film stars and the who's who of France wanting hats. Coco then made a line of leisure wear that would turn so much into Chanel.

Now a days Chanel is one of the leading fashion icons of all time and with as much hard work and persistence it was due to pay off. So as I finish this blog I am off to design and keep persisting within the fashion world to one day be alike the very best Coco Chanel.

Coco Chanel 1883-1971. An inspiration and icon one to never be forgotten  

Fashionistas: Hot Holiday Trends

From laying on the beach until 2 to partying all night with family and friends, it is officially the holiday season! Festivals, public holidays and of course my favorite all of the holiday season sales!

To save you the stress of having to work out how to survive the holiday trends I have gathered some tips and tricks from my personal experience! ( Yes, I have the entire last week off with of course a touch of work here and there) Lets get down to business- How to be the hottest holiday'er where ever your holiday should take you!

Step 1. Keep Shopping Fun

Meet a friend for lunch or break shopping trips it into small, manageable chunks of time to keep it from being a chore, especially when the baby strollers are out in force in all major shopping centres. I nearly lost a leg due to a stroller in the City Myer store! If holiday shopping is one of the few times during the year that you can dedicate to looking for clothes for yourself, don't feel guilty about gifting yourself with a few outfits, go through your wardrobe and make a list of things you need and if you find something to die for on special 'Uh' how can you resist spoil your self! Even if you're short on time, there are still strategies to shop in a hurry (this is where my list, black jeans, flats, several bright and colorful skirts and a blazer come into play!).

Step 2. Plan Ahead

Schedule your beauty maintenance well in advance over the holiday period it is a MUST. It is a good idea to make an appointment when you are in your hair salon, nail and eyebrow bar, spray tan salon etc.. Its the best way to keep track of when you need to go back and easy because you already have your appointment no need to beg and plead over the phone just to get in! Hair color and cut, manicure and pedicures, even getting your outfits cleaned or tailored needs to go in your appointment book ahead of time it is the best way to be stress free and looking your best through the holidays! I am excited to get my locks colored and cut those Beach curls just kill my hair!

Step 3. Buy a Few Multi-Purpose Fashion Pieces

If you have more than one party to attend, you can stretch looks to cover them. Take, for example, a long-sleeve romantic blouse with lace trim. You can pair it with jeans for a casual party, with black velvet pants for a cocktail party or a long black skirt and heels for a more formal affair of course keep your Chanel hand bag in toe for all of these events. Stay well-prepared by stocking your closet with party 'musts' that will be classics you'll reach for every holiday season. Just remember that most separate tops can go from formal to casual just by switching out the bottoms, shoes and accessories. It is also a good idea to keep dresses that can go from day to night, best when at the beach! Laze around the beach in some sandals and large hat sunglasses a must, then swap them for heels some bronzer and diamonds you will be looking like a goddess the whole night while not making much effort!

Step 4. Save Where You Can

It's easy to blow a bundle at the holidays, especially when you have parties, Christmas, New Years Parties, festivals and holidays. Luckily, retailers start running big sales early in November for all sorts of holiday fashion look online some stores are onto sales early Nov saving you a lot of money over the Holiday period. Look for classic items like cashmere sweaters and coats at bargain prices especially on American websites as they are in the middle of their Winter. You probably won't find the hottest designer bags or accessories on sale, but there are ways to shop like highly successful sale shoppers. I once heard Tori Burch found a pair of Christian Louboutins for $149. Now that is what I aspire to! ( As does my Bank account!)

Step 5. Remember That Shape wear is Your Friend

I have a confession to make as does some of my girlfriends who we do 'Bootie Camp' with yes I ate way too much Christmas Day the trifle was a delight and all that champagne over New Years was perfect to bring in the New Year however now my body is making me pay and jiggley bits are appearing! UGH! Stress less about it its the holidays your allowed to enjoy yourself and over iindulge! This is where shape wear is your best friend! When products like Sassybax (a bra that eliminates back fat) and Spanx will keep you looking slim on the sly. Time to pull out the Spanx and shaping camis to keep you looking sleek.

Step 6. When in Doubt, Wear a Little Black Dress

The beauty of a little black dress is that it will take you to just about any party -- except the most casual or most formal -- and look perfect. Just freshen up your look by switching out accessories (for example, add a bright heals to set off your amazing summer glow or cute accessories!)

While I sit in the office once holiday and party gal to regular crazy PA duties I wish all you holiday'ers a great summer holiday and if you are working keep your chin up there is always the weekend! Xx



Tip for Tat! Top 5 Exfoliating Tips!

Exfoliating your skin is not only great prep for a spray tan but also great to boost a bright and radiant appearance. All of which are what we are all searching for this summer! So to help you this summer I have compiled my top four exfoliating tips to ensure a brighter and luminous appearance.
Firstly, forget the fluffy nylon bath things your Nana gives you with the bottle of body wash. Secondly throw out the bacteria infested loofah that has been sitting in your shower for way too long! They are generally too abrasive for your skin anyway! Instead trade them all in for a basic wash cloth! Your new best friend when it comes to exfoliating. Exfoliating gloves are also a god sent- use them in a circular motion for best result!

1. Apply oil to skin

2. Take a dry brush or gloves to the skin starting from your feet- light strokes!

3. Next, step into the shower use a sugar or salt scrub starting again from your feet using circular motions.

4. Rinse, apply a salicylic acid body wash, pay attention to knees, heels and elbows. If you have back acne focus on this area as well.

5. Dry skin and apply a moisturizer

I hope these few handy hints are helpful and let your skin glow and pop like the fire works on New Years Eve!

Gift Ideas: Make your Own Gifts, Great for Personalization

Make an eye-catching necklace using some simple beaded beads, Swarovski crystals and elegant vintage glass beads.

1. Gather Your Materials

For this project, you will need the following materials:

•5 grams size 11 Japanese cylinder beads, metallic gold
•29 Swarovski crystals, 4mm round, jet AB

•10 vintage glass beads, squares, drilled diagonally, approximately 8mm

•Gold filled clasp

•Beading wire, gold colored, .019” diameter

•2 crimp beads, gold filled, 2x2mm tube

•Size 12 beading needle

•Nymo D, brown or white

•Wire cutters

•Crimping pliers

2. Make Six Beaded Beads

On a comfortable length of thread (no longer than 3’), string a stop bead. Pick up 21 cylinder beads. Using flat odd-count peyote, make a piece of bead work 14 rows long. A good way to keep track of the rows is to make a mark on a piece of paper after you finish each row. Zip up the piece into a tube by stitching through every other bead. Secure the thread by weaving into the bead work. Set aside.

3. Embellished Tubes (Make Three)

Make a tube as described in Step 2, but do not tie off the working thread. Instead, weave the needle and thread into the bead work and come out of the second bead from the edge.

4. Add the First Embellishment Loop

Pick up the following beads:

3 cylinder beads, a 4mm Swarovski, and 18 cylinder beads. Pass needle and thread back through the 4mm Swarovski bead and pull tightly to form a loop. Pick up 3 cylinder beads and pass needle and thread through the sixth bead from the edge of the bead work.

5. Add the Second Embellishment Loop

Pick up the following beads:

10 cylinder beads, a 4mm Swarovski, and 30 cylinder beads. Pass needle and thread through the 4mm Swarovski bead and pull tightly to form a loop. Pick up 10 cylinder beads. Count off 10 beads and pass needle and thread through the 16th bead from the edge of the bead work. (Make sure that you are staying in the same row when counting off beads.)

6. Add the Third Embellishment Loop

Pick up 3 cylinder beads, a 4mm Swarovski, and 18 cylinder beads. Pass needle and thread back through the Swarovski bead and pull snugly to form a loop. Pick up 3 cylinder beads and pass needle and thread through the 20th bead from the edge of the bead work.

Knot the ends of the threads, add a drop of glue if desired, weave into the bead work and trim.

7. String the Necklace

Center one of the embellished tubes on the center of your beading wire. On either side, string the following pattern:


•A 4mm crystal

•A vintage glass bead

•A 4mm crystal

•An embellished tube

•A 4mm crystal

•A vintage glass bead

•A 4mm crystal

•A plain beaded tube

•A 4mm crystal

•A vintage glass bead

•A 4mm crystal

•A plain beaded tube

•A 4mm crystal

•A vintage glass bead

•A 4mm crystal

•A plain beaded tube

•A 4mm crystal

•A vintage glass bead

•A 4mm crystal

8. Attach the Clasp

On one side of the necklace, string a crimp bead, one half of the clasp, and pass the beading wire back through the crimp bead. Use crimping pliers to secure. Repeat for the other half of the clasp.

"Ta-Daa!" My newest creations! Try making your own today!!xo



Fashion Tips: Holiday Season NO NO's!

Now if your Victoria Beckham or Kate Moss there seems to be nothing these woman can do wrong in regards to Fashion, Mixing Print with Cargo or Flannel with Velvet, things that would make you and I cringe these women can pull off without the smallest doubt.

If you've ever dressed up shinier than a Christmas tree or turned down last-minute party invitations because you had nothing to wear, you'll know that the holiday season is loaded with chances for fashion disasters.

With a little help and preparation, you can learn how to avoid common holiday fashion mistakes and look your prettiest this year. Being the Belle of the Holiday Ball maybe even meet a Prince Charming or Two!

Wearing Too Much Glitz

Beading, metallic and shimmer are all fine for the holidays which is very in this Holiday Season. In fact, most women wait until a good party to break out all of the glitzy finery. But too much shine can overwhelm anyone, especially if you wear it in areas that you don't necessarily want to highlight (like a beaded chest sweater for a busty gal). Be aware,  dress a glitzy shirt down with a cute skirt, instead of pairing the shirt with also a Glitzy Skirt screaming disco ball instead of disco Queen!

Showing Too Much Skin

Thigh-high miniskirts and cut-to-the-navel dresses may look great on the runway, but in reality they are almost impossible to carry off. Not only is it possible to dress sexy while leaving lots to the imagination, it's also the best way to look your prettiest for the holidays and celebrating those Office Parties. The secret here is to accentuate your best features with a suggestion: a lace trimmed camisole under a blazer hints at great cleavage, a small slit on a skirt gives a glimpse at gorgeous legs, a halter dress shows off toned arms. More is sometimes Less, unfortunately our mothers were right!

Getting Caught With Nothing to Wear

Nothing is worse than being invited to a fabulous party and having nothing to wear. By keeping a few dressy basics in your closet you can always be prepared for last-minute invitations. You can even re-wear the items and make them look totally different just with accessories. Its been done don't feel ashamed to re-wear something chances are people will only remember how amazing you look not exactly what you were wearing!

 Being Under or Over Dressed

You show up in jeans, everyone else wears velvet ( one of my nightmares!); you wear a long dress and others wear business clothes. You're not alone if you have trouble deciphering dress codes on a party invitation: most people get confused by designations as ambiguous as "Dressy Casual" or "Cocktail Attire." A few dressy items span several categories -- such as the little black dress for her or dark suit for him -- both of which can attend everything from semi-formal to cocktail parties ( Nightmare Averted!! Sweet dreams ahead!).

The Never Fail LBD

Add Accessories to Outfits!

 



Fashion Tips: Shine Bright this Summer Sequins are In!

Are you ready to add some shine in a hurry for your special holiday fashion looks? Try a healthy dose of sequins this year. Complimenting that beautiful summer sun (Spray) tan. You'll find such special pieces as sequin jackets, sequin maxi skirts....even sequin gloves. All will give your look something sparkly and pretty. Perfect for the Holiday Christmas Party, New Years and everything in between!

Sequin Clothing not your style show off your "bling" side with some jewelry that will sparkle if not more than all the sequin clothing in the world!


Left Camelia Carlton Sequin Bag! Buy Now!!



Prepping for the Weekend!

The countdown is officially on until the Queensland Dancesport Championships this weekend. Camelia Carlton with elaundry will be hosting a stall at the event at Jupiter's Casino in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast where my range will be sold.

Although there's expected to be over 3000 attendees, we needed a little pizazz to make our stall POP out of the crowd! Toni-Maree is having two giant posters printed, and one of her employees at elaundry has graciously created a FABULOUS custom mirror, which I secretly want to steal.

If you're free this Easter long weekend, why not pay us a visit? We'd love to meet you in person! If you can't make it, you will be able to shop the entire range THIS WEEKEND. Excitement!

Until next time,

CC xo

Some Exciting News from CC HQ!

I have some truely exciting news to share with you all! My range is back from the manufacturer AND over the weekend my brand new and improved website went live! Not all of the information or the fabulous shopping cart (where you will be able to shop my ENTIRE range) is available just yet, but we're working on that!

Tonight Toni-Maree and Clint are helping me shoot the products with a beautiful mystery model (you will soon see!) and then will begin the momentous task of uploading it all to the website. The website will feature my best work, travel & fitness tips (if you have any to share - please email me at cameliacarlton@gmail.com), a fab shopping cart and my blog of course!

Let me tell you, everyone who has been involved in this project is running around like headless chickens trying to get it complete before the Dancesport Championships this weekend. It doesn't help that I work 9-5pm either.. Anyway, it's been a long time coming and I'm so, so pleased that it's all coming together the way I knew it would.

Until next time,

CC xo