Friday #GoHugo

Sorry/not sorry. This is basically the best:

(image shamelessly stolen from gurl.com who will hopefully understand.)

Weekend Window Shopping: Black Friday is for Amateurs.

(This is a bit early, but I'm taking the holiday weekend off! Hope y'all have a good one.)

I don't really do Black Friday, at least not in person. I don't wait in line at the crack of dawn for a deal, I much prefer the Internets to do my work for me. I do, however, like black things.

Who Wore It Biggest?

A: Lenny Kravitz is… cold? Or did he shrink?

L: He's chilly! And he's cool. The man can do no wrong in my book.

A: I adore him but he looks like a crazy person. Does he think he's Pharrell?

L: No way. He's so much cooler than Pharrell it hurts. And I love it. Admittedly, he's walking an Olsen-twin line here, but I'm just gonna thumbs up anything he does fashion wise. Plus, Marianne TOTALLY made a scarf that big and gave it to me. Perhaps I'm biased?

A: According to the Internet he is a tiny person, but still. Maybe Marianne made him a giant scarf too?

L: Giant blanket scarves are the new Smokey the Bear hat.

A: I guess. I still think he looks like he shrunk.

L: I think I found the lady who knit it:

A: OMG.

L: Mad knitting skills.

A: *high five*

Buy This (So We Don't Have To): Neiman Marcus Last Call Sale.

Last Call is one of those sites I always forget about, but when the bargains are good, they are GOOD. They always have a code floating around but usually they’ll just automatically apply whatever deal is happening. Right now it’s an extra 40% to 60% off EVERYTHING (which means 40% off regular stuff, 60% off of sale stuff.) Plus, you can get 3.5% cash back with eBates. AND, I was able to use code LCFALL12 for $10 Off $50+ Plus Free Shipping on $75. Whee!

This is a great site to pick up a few, um, gifts for that certain you in your life.

Giveway Winner!

After cleaning up the comments a bit (removing deleted comments/duplicates) there were 70 entries for the MBMJ Teri bag. I used random.org to chose the winner and here is the screenshot:

The winner is comment #4 - skyscraper! Skyscraper, you didn't provide a contact address so you have 24 hours to contact us at looksgoodfromtheback@gmail.com.

Thanks for entering, everyone!

Weekend Window Shopping: I'm Freezing my Ass Off.

It turned sharply colder this week and I pulled out my trusty old puffer jacket, took a good look at it and recoiled in horror. It's really old and really, really sad, y'all. So, this weekend I will legitimately be shopping for a new one. Here is what I found for inspiration:

Friday #GoHugo

Jamie Dornan isn't really sure about the jacket he's wearing but he is sure that Hugo is the best.

The Bag Equation and a Giveaway!

Like the Boot Equation*, the Bag Equation is also  n+1, where n is the number of bags currently owned. Maybe you’re not a bag person and you think one will get you through everything? Maybe, but I just don’t see how that could possibly work.  Here’s what I think you need for a minimum bag wardrobe:

One simple all around hobo in black or brown:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hillier Hobo

One really nice tote appropriate for work:

Botkier Soho Tote

One satchel (or another hobo if you absolutely can’t do hand-held) in a fun color:

Emma Fox Small Dome Satchel

One awesome evening option (which is one of those things you don’t need until you do):

Sasha Metal Window Evening Clutch

For the first two bags, please buy the very best you can afford. (The evening clutch can be dirt cheap.) A bag you carry near-daily is going to take a lot of abuse so buy good quality and carry it forever. I’ve had my black Hillier Hobo for more than four years and it’s still going strong. That’s why I bought a second one in a different color. If a particular style works for you, don’t be afraid to buy it again. If the basics are covered and you love bags, you should definitely consider:

A small crossbody, useful and you can buy a crazy color because it's small:

Fossil

A neutral metallic which is sleek but goes with everything:

Michael Kors

A fun coated canvas tote, great for summer:

Oryany

A cool messenger bag which you just can't with the other bags:

Clare V.

A fancy lady bag, if you're so inclined:

Kate Spade

This may seem like a lot of bags but if you chose carefully and buy things that work with your lifestyle and wardrobe, you’ll be covered for a long time. Now, because I’m not a total jerk and don’t want to set you up to be sad because you can’t afford to run out and buy a bunch of bags, I have a giveaway! OH YEAH.

So, a while back Adina over at Blue Collar Red Lipstick had a Pay-It-Forward giveaway and I won a very beautiful dress. So nice! I decided to do the same, and I’m actually doing it with a great bag I got from Adina in a trade. I've carried it for a while and now it's time for it to find a new home.

This is a Marc by Marc Jacobs Teri bag in a gorgeous subtle metallic color called Fool’s Gold:

It’s been pre-loved and isn’t in perfect condition, but it’s still really nice and has years use left. I’m giving it away to one of you, to be selected randomly.

The Giveaway is now CLOSED. Please stay tuned for the announcement of the winner! 

*The boot equation idea was totally stolen from my friend Paula who's got more pairs of boots than I do, if you can believe it.

Mascara Showdown!

Somehow between reader suggestions and Sephora orders I ended up with five new mascaras. Five! I think I might have a problem. A mascara problem. The obvious solution seemed to be this: Try them on and take deeply horrifying close-up photos to show you guys because blog science. The problem is, they all kind of look alike in the photos. Dammit.  But, I'm hoping maybe you guys will be able to see a difference? Please just lie because this took forever.

(Also, if you want to see a much more in-depth and adorable version of this, I'd be a jerk if I didn't recommend The Patron Saint of Mascara, also a reader suggestion. You guys are the best.)

So, to start, I tried the following three reader-recommended mascaras:

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes - This was recommended by Natalie and Francie.

Maybelline Full 'n Soft - This was recommended by three readers including Katie who said, “I can't buy it in Germany, so every time I have to fly back from the US I strap tubes to my body a la Midnight Express.”

Shiseido Integrate Gracy Mascara - This was recommended so highly by an anonymous reader that I felt like I had no choice but to buy it. Blog science!

And two recent samples:

Lancôme HYPNÔSE DRAMA Instant Full Body Volume Mascara - I got this as a deluxe sample in one of the Sephora SEASONSET sample bags.

Dior Iconic Overcurl (or as Marianne recently called it, "Diorshow Iconic Glambast Lashexplosion." Mascara names are ridiculous but I think Lancôme gets the side-eye for most insanely unnecessarily long name.) - I got this from Sephora as a 100 Point Perk.

And now, because this is FOR SCIENCE, here I am with no mascara:

wispy sadness

Sad mole creature

And now, here are the individual results. This took forever and I have a new respect for beauty bloggers:

L'Oreal

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes. This is a tubing mascara with a separate primer which qualifies it as an Advanced Product as far as I'm concerned. I've had terrible luck with tubing mascaras but I was will to give this one a try. As you can see, this shit works like gangbusters. It takes more time because of the primer, but if you do it right, you'll have long lashy lashes all day long. They'll feel a little crunchy, but just don't touch them. My main issue - you cannot "wiggle" this one on the way you do with regular mascara. Brush it on straight and work fast - two coats per eye, one right after the other. If you don't do this your lashes will all stick together into three big points and it looks weird. But, if you have the time, this stuff is worth the effort.

Maybelline

Maybelline Full 'n Soft. I know you guys love this stuff but I wasn't blown away. I did really appreciate the super-long wand which made left-eye application much easier. It's really a pretty standard mascara and I had to do three coats to get any kind of volume. But, it's inexpensive and doesn't flake, so it's a solid drugstore option if you're just looking for a basic, no-frills mascara.

Shiseido

Shiseido Integrate Gracy Mascara. Another one that underwhelmed me. I loved the teeny-tiny wand, which made it easy to get all my sad, short lashes coated, but I had to work and work to get any kind of volume action. Again, three coats! Too much work. This would be a good choice for someone who already has long lashes, I think.

Lancôme

Lancôme HYPNÔSE DRAMA Instant Full Body Volume Mascara. Now we're talking! This stuff is volume HEAVEN. It's got a weird curvy brush and it's super thick and volume-crazy with one coat. My only concern is that it seems like the kind of mascara that dries up almost immediately, as the formula is already kind of dry.

Dior

Dior Iconic Overcurl. This is good mascara, despite the annoying curved brush which doesn't really help as much as you'd think it would. It goes on a bit more subtle than the Lancôme but I got nice volume and length with two coats and it stays super-black all day. Interestingly, I don't really think it holds curl all that well? Hmph.

Of all these, I honestly think my favorites are the L'Oreal Double Extend and the Lancôme HYPNÔSE DRAMA. So, one reader suggestion and one random sample. I didn't hate any of them, which says a lot for you guys and your solid recommendations. Thanks, y'all!

Adrien: Business in the Front, Party in the Back.

So...it's hard to take photos of black clothing, especially when the light isn't cooperating. But, I wanted to show you guys this sweater I bought from Banana Republic (discussed recently here) because it's good times. It's one of those business/party tops that is a sweater knit in the front and a silky material in the back. Interesting, but also a little odd. 

This one works, though. It's just the right amount of slouchy and the back panel has a pleat that makes it hang just right. It's also ass-covering, which I appreciate. 

The back is different, I swear.

I'm wearing James Jeans and... forgot to take my sunglasses off my head like a dummy.

Details! This is my blue MBMJ bag (only available on eBay but this one is close) and Loeffler Randall Matilde boots.

Here's a close-up of my Giles & Brother hook necklace, which I've been wearing a ton. Mine is the rose gold color but it also comes in gold.

That's it! All very exciting, I'm sure. Tell all your friends. 

BUY THIS (So We Don't Have To): J.Crew 25% Off & Free Shipping!

Good times over at J.Crew right now. In stores & online: 25% off your purchase with code SHOPNOW (Cardmembers, 30% off with code CARDTREAT) plus 2.0% back with eBates. Also, today only - free shipping on all orders! This would be an ideal time to pick up that awesome gift for...someone. Maybe you. Maybe me. Check it out:

That Guy.

source: trendycrew.com

A: I found it! Proof that high rise jeans look good on nobody. Not even the super-glamorous.

L: Oh honey.

A: The coat is fabulous?

L: Agreed! And in theory I love black leather pants with it.

A: Yes! I think she's lovely and like the whole outfit in theory but those pants. Are. A. Tragedy.

L: Devil's advocate: she's capturing the 80's look remarkably well with those.

A: I really think her pants just don't fit her. It happens to the best of us.

L: You know I think you're right. Don't want to start a fashion war here, but this is what happens when men design women's clothes. "Oh, women go in here, and out here, and back in there! PANTS!"

A: LADY PANTS! DONE!

L: Whoever made the waist on those pants also made cap sleeves.

A: Oh, that guy. I hate that guy.

L: The worst. Probably also responsible for the midi, just FYI.

A: Oh, He DEFINITELY is.

Weekend Window Shopping: Winter Coats.

Sigh. It's cold out today and I had to wear a coat. At least it's a cute coat, which helps a little bit. Since I did scarves last week I figured I should give you some beautiful coats to go with them:

Friday #GoHugo

I'm not a huge LOTR fan but this is ADORABLE and completely cracks me up:

#GOHUGO

Banana Republic: Reviews and Rejection.

I've bought quite a few things from BR's fall collection and have also returned a lot more. Sometimes you just can't know if something is good until you can try it on with your own stuff, you know? (Also, I would like to kindly request that Banana slow down a bit with the mixed media "business in the front, party in the back" tops. While it's fun to have one top that's two different materials, do they ALL have to be like that? And handwash-only tees? Stop that, BR.)

Here's what I've liked and kept:

Drapey Utility Blouse

This blouse. I have two of them. I've professed my love already.

Mixed-Media High/Low Pullover

This sweater (business/party!) which I really like so far. It's just the right amount of boxy/drapey to wear with jeggings and boots. It just balances things out really well. My only issue is finding the right sheer, v-neck shirt to wear under it. The front is wool, so I can't wear it without an underlayer.

Mini-Stripe Long-Sleeve Tee

This striped shirt. I should probably buy a back up, I like it so much. They only have the white version left on the website but the black/white one is still available in-store.

Abby Ballet Flat

I did not buy these flats, but Nina swears by them and bought a backup pair when she found a really good deal. Just FYI.

Recently tried on and/or ordered and returned:

Slubbed Easy Tee 

I loved everything about this tee - drapey, thin, nice deep v-neck,  but the bottom hem sticks out all funny on the sides. I might buy one when they get marked way, way down.

Piped Luxe Tee

Meh. This one was weirdly tight in the arms and it's just a black tee. Nothing special.

Side Zip Open Cardigan

This sweater was SO nice and cozy and I love the zipper detail but the sleeves were miles too long on me.

Soft-Wash Herringbone Military Shirt 

This blouse seemed so promising but was just all wrong on me. Also, the white buttons were kind of weird and it looked like it would require a lot of ironing, which is always a negative.

What about you? Have you bought anything from the BR fall collection that you love/hate? Also, I'd be a bad blogger if I failed to inform you that currently BR is offering 40% off your purchase today only with code BRSAVE. (Also, 2.0% back with eBates.)

Adrien: That Jacket.

Back in September Nina and I took a trip up to the fancy outlet mall and one of the things I was looking for was an inverted notch blazer. Nina found me one because she's magic for the low, low price of $33. The sleeves were too long so it hung in my closet for another month or so before I got around to getting them shortened which cost all of $18. So, for $51 I got a really cool blazer and filled a very empty hole in my closet. Lo:

It's not a perfect fit, but I have a hard time with structured jackets in general because my shoulders are so narrow. Still, it's good enough for me and I love the inverted lapel look a lot. It definitely fits in with my love of simple clothes with interesting details.

My jacket which is Laundry by Shelli Segall, is probably from last season because I can't find it online anywhere. Never mind, there are lots of great options out there! This one has potential (even though the model is the woooorst), this Forever21 version is certainly affordable, this is a nice mid-price option and oooh, if money were no object this one is the way to go. 

I couldn't decide which photo to use, so you get both.

My striped shirt is Banana Republic and it's on sale right now, just saying. Oh! And I'm also wearing my new Giles & Brother hook necklace which has become a favorite. I get a ton of compliments on it. 

I'm carrying my vintage LV epi speedy, but there are so many other good red satchels out there for all budgets.  My shoes are very old Chie Mihara and my pants are 7 For All Mankind which I raved about previously here.  

That's it! What wardrobe staple have you been looking for? Any luck?

Buy This (So We Don't Have To): Piperlime Code.

This is a good one! Piperlime is offering an extra 30% off sale and 40% off final sale with code EXTRAEXTRA (plus 7.0% back with eBates. That's my referral link.)

My strategy is always to look at stuff where sizing doesn't matter - accessories and jewelry. This is also the time I start hoarding potential holiday gifts. For other people. Not for myself. Nope. Other people. Here's what I think looks promising in the final sale section (40% off these prices!):

And still a really good deal when you knock an extra 30% off:

The Secret Word Is: Crotch.

source: The Sartorialist

A: I don’t. What is. Wait. Ow.

L: All I see here is her giant zipper.....area.

A: I was momentarily distracted by the expanse of her chest and then, eep. Crotchy.

L: It's sort of like she's given a camel toe a face?

A: I kind of like everything else she's doing and then I get hit with crotch.

L: The poor dear. You know she thought she was lookin' good that morning (so close!) but when she saw those pics she fainted.

A: Maybe, or maybe she thinks crotch is the new black.

L: DON'T PUT THAT INTO THE UNIVERSE!

A: Too late. Done. *jazz hands*

L: UNDO, UNDO!

A: TOO LATE. CROTCH TIME.

Sephora Mini-Reviews, Part 1.

I hit up the Sephora F&F sale pretty hard but not without a few guidelines:

- Replace staple products
- Replace disgusting old products
- Replace products containing bismuth oxychloride*

Last week I listed the products I'd intended on purchasing and I mostly stuck to that list. I ditched the Tarte powder because I ended up getting a deluxe sample of the MUFE HD powder (which I've used before) and it fills the same purpose.

I also made one small order pre-friends & family so I could take advantage of the sample bag promotion (code: SEASONSET with $25 purchase). I got the "A Bright Night Out" set which was pretty fantastic. Those are some quality deluxe samples, you guys.  Here's what I really liked:

Lancôme HYPNÔSE DRAMA Instant Full Body Volume Mascara

Oooh, this is good stuff. It's not too wet, really volumizing, easy to layer and very, very black. I was delighted with this sample though it does seem like the kind of mascara that dries up quickly. I'm wearing it today and so far, my lashes are looking good. I don't know that I'd buy this though because the price is pretty high.

Marc Jacobs Lust for Lacquer Lip Vinyl-Sheer in Kissability

Okay, before I review this I want to show you the official product description for the Lip Vinyl: "A champagne grape-infused lip vinyl with a shimmery wash of lust-worthy, sheer-coverage color." Um, yeah. You guys? This is lipgloss. It's a really, really nice lipgloss, but champagne grape-infused? If you say so, Marc. Eye rolling aside, I am really happy with this. It's just a nice, neutral, shimmery lip gloss, the kind of thing you can put on in the car without needing a mirror. It's a bit tingly but not unpleasant or overpowering. I would definitely considering buying this (but probably in one of the darker colors.)

Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer

My tube of Primer Potion was starting to separate, was well over a year old and contains bismuth oxychloride, so I was definitely on the hunt for a new eyeshadow primer. This generous sample tube of Smashbox primer pretty much put a stop to that. So far it's working out just fine, though I haven't tested it thoroughly. So far, so good.

24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil

I was pretty excited about this because I'm starting to lean away from shimmery eyeliner and thought maybe this liner would work for me since I already like the regular 24/7 pencils. However, I'm not really a black eyeliner kinda girl so I wasn't sure how much love this would get from me. However, for blog science I tried it and it's pretty good, though it took a little extra precision to get it right. Then I smudged a little of my favorite purple 24/7 liner over it and YAY. I looked pretty fancy.

Urban Decay Brow Box

This brow box was an impulse purchase but I think we can all agree that it was time for me to ditch my current brow powder, made by Club Monaco Beauty which was discontinued in, like, 2005. Shut up. ANYWAY, I got this little box which includes two powders, brow wax, two teeny tiny brushes and the most adorably useless pair of tweezers ever. So far it's great, though I've been using my own brush because I don't have doll hands. I also love the packaging which is very satisfying and attractive. Hey, packaging is important.

That's it for now! I'll have a few more items to review once I work my way through them. The F&F sale is continuing through today and Sephora is also offering 4.0% cash back through eBates.

*bismuth oxychloride is a shimmer ingredient used in a lot of cosmetics but especially mineral foundations and shimmer powders. In higher concentrations it breaks me out like crazy and makes some people itch. More info here.