Northwest Terrarium DIY

I built my own terrarium this week. Originally I went to go buy a terrarium but the cute terrarium shop down the street was closed so I was forced to make my own for the studio. After getting my hands dirty and putting together a little plant world of my own, I realized it's way more worth it to make one by hand, rather than purchasing one. Take 10 minutes and do the same.. here's how:
{NOTE: There are many different kinds of terrariums you can create, each with it's own specific climate. I chose a northwest themed terrarium: for low light/shade and light watering needs.}
1) Bedding:
Terrariums need a bed that will collect and reserve water inside the container without causing water build up and rotting roots. You can use charcoal, rocks, moss and sand for this.
2) Soil:
A fresh, healthy topsoil will be best to plant your plants into. Make sure that the soil is packed firmly on top of your bedding choice. Soil will settle with time and you want your plants to be secured.
3) Plants:
Choose a variety of plants to fill your terrarium. Many different styles of plants placed tightly together look very unique and intriguing. Make sure your plants vary in height and color as well.
4) Accessorize:
Using crystals, stones, sticks, statues or figurines is a great way to polish off your terrarium. It adds individuality and expression to your space.
The end result was, without question my favorite terrarium and I was able to use a large vase that never gets too much use. Make one for your desk at work, your studio, your living room or even the bathroom.

Rodarte Inspried Spring Hair

I've fallen under the spell of Rodarte's Spring 2011 collection. The whimsy yet futuristic structure and ease are so alluring! While the clothes may be out of my budget, the accessories and hairstyles can be easily replicated. (*I made a video blog but it turned out terribly... let me just talk you through this..)
Before we begin, you'll need the following: Flat iron set to medium heat, 2 bobby pins or 1 barrette, comb, hairspray or finishing spray, 5 minutes.
Start by using your fingers to create an imperfect exaggerated side part. Backcomb both sides of your part towards the front of your face, so that it appears full and frames nicely. Spray into place. Use flat iron to make hair more textured. Add in some waves and texture, spray to hold. Next, pin exaggerated bangs and combed over hair on one side of your head... use a barrette if you have one too! See the video below featuring Elle Fanning : Rodarte's Muse. See the hairstyle in action, and fall in love with this magical collection.

Elle Fanning: Rodarte's Muse on Nowness.com. (images above via Style.com + Jazzy McG)

Dark + Dewy Makeup DIY

I love my purple lipcolor from MAC so much that I wanted to encourage you all to try it yourselves. How can I do this without showing you a tutorial that is fail-proof and downright lovely! With four simple products, you can create a beautiful soft, supple + dewy romantic look with a sexy bold lip, wearable for day or night!
Products I used: MAC Lipcolor in Cyber A80, Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30 in Fair-Light, MAC Matte Eye Shadow in Copperplate, Arbonne Sheer Glow Highlighter.

Urban Turban : DIY

Never in a million years would I have expected to enjoy the turban trend, but after some experimenting with an oversized scarf, I can say that I truly love it! My main source of inspiration was seeing Mary-Kate donning her Prada turban headband on the pages of style blogs across the world and realizing that it's a bold but versatile and enjoyable look! Below, I'll show you how to create your own chic turban from any scarf and how to style it.Begin with your large scarf and fold it into a large triangle. Place the middle points inward so that they sets against the fold on the opposite side. Fold again until your scarf is only about 3" wide. Next, tie a single knot in the middle of your scarf. Place the diamond knot in the center of your hair, and pull the ends around to the back side of your neck. Loop your scarf ends 2-3 times over then tie a bow (if scarf allows, a knot will do just as well). Just like that, you'll have a city-chic turban that looks great with a high bun, updo, straightened hair or loose waves.
*my friend Elsie posted a similar blog over a month ago (which I didn't see till today). Check hers out for a great explanation and other scarf how-t0's!

Maxi Makeover - Spring DIY

Ever wonder what to do with some of your long skirts come Spring and Summer? Instead of cutting them up or retiring them, here's a fun and non-permanent way of altering your maxi skirts so they become staples for your warm-weather ensembles!
Supplies Needed: Sewing machine, black fabric, ribbon (chord or a sash will do), pins, maxi skirt
Begin by cutting two pieces of black fabric and hemming all 4 sides, my fabric was 3" x 7". Next, lay garment flat, and place first black sewn fabric 12" from the top of your skirt. It will need to be pinned down, as a makeshift belt, making sure to keep fabric ruched / pleated underneath. Once pinned securely, sew along the top and bottom of the fabric, leaving the sides open. Repeat on the backside. Use a sash or ribbon to thread between the two makeshift belts and tie a bow near the front or on the side.

Here's the Before and After:

Slip into your new darling dresses for spring and summer, and come fall and winter, simply use a seam-ripper and remove the two black panels!

DIY Hot Toddy // the "get well" drink

My go-to get well drink is a good ole' hot toddy. A simple splash of whiskey seems to be a cure-all for all my cold symptoms. The recipe is simple, and cold symptoms will be out the door after a cup or two. Ingredients: Whiskey, honey, lemon, a variety of teas.
Pour one ounce whiskey and one tablespoon honey into your glass. Add half a lemon in slices - squeeze some of the slices so the juice is added to your mixture. Put a kettle on, and boil some water. Find 2-3 tea bags for flavor. I used immune support, peppermint and black tea, yummy! Steep your tea bags for 3-5 minutes and remove. Now, drink up and get well!

Cream + Sugar Candle DIY

I decided to make candles this weekend, and I loved it. I found these lovely crystal tumblers and teacup while thrifting and thought of planting cute little plants in them but realized that they'd be the perfect excuse to finally make some candles. All the materials I used were found at a local craft store...and very inexpensive.

Supplies needed: Wax (paraffin or soy), pre-made wicks, containers, scissors to trim excess wick, freezer: optional. *I used soy wax, which burns cleaner and lasts longer. The only difference between the soy wax and paraffin wax is that soy will require a higher temperature to achieve the full melt.

Directions: Fill a large pot 1/3 full with water. Place on the stove and rise to a low boil (between 6 and 7 usually works). Place a medium sized glass mixing bowl inside the large pot, making sure to not overflow the glass bowl with water. Next, fill the glass bowl half full with wax. Let water continue to boil, and wax will slowly melt. At first, wax will appear clumpy and clouded but will soon melt down to be completely clear. Place wicks in the bottom of your candle containers making sure they are straight and upright.

Wear protective oven mittens to avoid getting burned, and remove glass bowl full of melted wax from the large pot of water. Pour wax into each container, while being sure to leave an inch of the wick exposed for lighting. Let sit. Once wax in containers are clouded, you can place into the freezer, but only for 2-3 minutes. Any longer and your candles will crack...no bueno!

After you've let the wax sit for 2-3 hours you can light your candles. I love how they turned out and even added a little bit of sandalwood, jasmine and Chanel No5 perfume to each.. heaven!