a diy tuxedo mani + lovely links

when i spied this yves saint laurent matte and glossy mani at the neiman marcus fall beauty event a couple of weeks ago, i couldn’t wait to get my paws on the parts to make it happen. inspired by the black on black texture of a tuxedo with its powder black suiting and satin lapels, ysl brings us a killer manicure couture duo for holiday. the resulting look is smoky matte black nails with super shiny french tips and it’s surprisingly chic and sophisticated.

now i don’t have the steadiest hand when it comes to painting my own nails so tackling a project like this one is a bit daunting. clumsy gals like me will love my latest find: this kiesque’s liquid palisade fast drying skin protector. just swipe it on the skin around your nails, paint, and then peel away whatever gets outside the lines. it’s an uncoordinated perfectionist’s dream and a total must for the at-home manicurist.

if you’re bold, brave and want to give this ultra sleek look a try, manicure couture in terriblement noir will be available later this month for $30 and kiesque liquid palisade is available online now for $22.

{a few lovely links}

• the kaboodle girls are some of my absolute favorite people and they’ve featured me in their community buzz blog today
• have any of my fellow thin-haired beauties tried the sock bun? i think it’s kinda genius.
• i fell hard for this vintage 1920’s ring, what do we think about this one as a substitute? can’t beat the $1.50 price!
• fall has arrived at hobo and it is looking omgorgeous – take a peek at yummy new arrivals
• on a personal note, my wedding was featured in the washingtonian this week! 11/27/10 was a 40 degree day with 20 mph winds, so pardon our shivers and frozen faces :)