Thanksgiving Table Setup

Thanksgiving always gets me super excited, because 

1.) I get to spend time with family

2.) It is right dab smack in the middle of autumn when the weather is perfect

3.) That means Black Friday is just around the corner (yayyyy)

4.) I get to eat nonstop continuously without being judged. No shame.

Thanksgiving Table by bellacharlie featuring Spode
This is my ideal Thanksgiving table setup and decor.
Firstly, you obviously will need a rustic wooden family table that just screams "Autumn!" But in the circumstance that you will not go out to your nearest ikea and buy a new table for this occasion, is understandable. 
The dinnerware I chose to include were these extremely festive plates and a mug that can be purchased at Macy's. The entire set, which includes a dinner plate, salad plate, mug, and bowl can be purchased at $156.50.
Next is this turkey place card holder that I thought was extremely cute and a must-have for big family gatherings. This can be purchased at Crate and Barrel but is only available in store.
Autumnal place mats are also a necessity and this set of four I have chosen to include are available at overstock.com at a price of $37.99.
Personally, my favorite part of Thanksgiving dinner (besides of the turkey of course), is the mashed potatoes. And what are mashed potatoes without gravy? This gravy boat is also from the same brand as the dinnerware I have mentioned earlier and can be bought at a price of $168. 
These red wine glasses are by Versace and cost £155 or $236.89. This is obviously more high-end and by all means, if this not in your budget do not purchase this. I just thought that these were really pretty and it gave me major autumnal vibes.
These 3 pumpkins (pictured in the bottom right corner), can be put all around the dining room area to make the atmosphere a bit more festive and autumnal. The twig harvest pumpkin pictured in the middle can be purchased for $30, and the 2 other pumpkins are currently not available but pop into your nearest Pier 1 for more information regarding these items.

I hope everyone has an amazing Thanksgiving, and if you don't live in America and don't celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope you're having a wonderful week.

My New Store: MOONLIGHT

Ever since I was seven years old, I've always dreamed of creating my own fashion website where I could show and sell people the type of clothes I would wear. I used to draw endless amounts of layouts and outfits I would put together for my website. I went through an evolution of store names (as every indecisive seven year old would do); "Starella" (since my name is Bella and I thought I was quite clever for putting star in front of my name), "Charmed" (because I've always been into romantic things and Cinderella was definitely one of my top five favorite films), "Kid Inc." (because I was sure that I would and could be a kid fashion designer if I put my heart and soul into doing what I love), and "Bella" (because logically I thought if I was going to make it big in the fashion world, people are going to have to know my name). I even had a font of how I would write my store names because I thought "If I'm going to make my store one-of-a-kind, it's inevitable for me to come up with my own signature font." 

On August 20 of 2015, my dreams were coming true.

I was contacted by an e-commerce platform called "Brick and Portal". They had told me that they've seen my Polyvore account and loved my sense of style. They offered me a job to be one of their entrepreneurs on the website. They said that I could make my own online store, on my own website url, and a percentage of all sales go to me. I was completely flattered! The people at Brick and Portal informed me that they were launching sometime in the fall so for about two months I was excited and on edge. I checked my email daily, about ten times a day, to see if there was any news for me. 

I opened up my online store "MOONLIGHT" about two weeks ago, and in my store, are the outfits that I dreamed of creating when I was seven years old. "MOONLIGHT" would appeal to the "romantic daydreamer". I got inspired by the song, "Tattooed Heart", and one line in particular caught my eye:

"And kiss me underneath the moonlight"

As simple as it is, this line is the epitome of what my store is all about.

Feminine, flirty, and romantic.

Checkout my website now if you'd like to see more!

https://moonlight.brickandportal.com/

Lost Friendships & Relationships

I am recently caught up in a whole lot of nostalgia and I've been playing old songs that remind me of the people I once loved. The people who once loved me. I've made a set on Polyvore that was heavily inspired by the song, "The Reason". When I listened to this song for the first time in forever, the chorus really caught my attention and I nearly bawled my eyes out:

"I've found a reason for me

To change who I used to be

A reason to start over new

and the reason is you"

I've recently started school and with that it is inevitable that you will meet new friends, catch up with older friends, and lose your best friends. "The Reason" has always been a childhood favorite of mine but I didn't really understand how much this song meant to me until now. I've said a lot of bad things to a lot of people, I've regretted my mistakes, I've been really unappreciative to the people who were there for me through everything I've been through, and with that I'm sorry. I walk the hallways at school completely lost because that one person I used to talk to has moved on with newer people and is too busy to be bothered by me. I made this person promise to me that we would never stop talking, stop laughing, and under any circumstances, forget about each other. I guess we've both been pretty bad at keeping that promise. We occasionally wave at each other with the awkwardest "I miss you" kind of smile. But the 10 seconds I have the pleasure of being in their presence, honestly makes my entire day. Nobody in the world could ever replace the people who meant the most to me.

Nobody can replace him.

This person was my everything and still holds a special place in my heart even though our status isn't the same as it was before. Since losing that person, I  have realized that I need to hold on to the people that mean the most to me, now and forever. And never take their presence and love for granted.
It took me a lost bond with the person who meant the most to me, to finally open my eyes and understand that some people are worth fighting for and if you don't make that effort to fight for who you love, they will just leave your life without saying goodbye.
I don't usually write these types of posts and this all feels a bit foreign to me but I'm always available if you need to talk. Don't ever be afraid to pm me if you need someone to talk to.



For Devin.

Xx

My Back to School Essentials

It's that time of year again. It's the back to school season and while most people (including myself) would dread it, I look forward to the school supplies shopping. I already did my shopping last week since it was tax-free weekend where I live. These are my top essentials that will get me throughout the entire school year whilst looking as cute as ever. I also came up with a pretty consistent color scheme of pastel pinks and beiges.

My Back to School Essentials by bellacharlie featuring a kate spade pencil case

• First thing that is a must for school are a box of pencils and erasers. These are pretty basic things but you need them year-round and it always helps if you have more than one just in case it comes in handy. I chose these really pretty pack of 6 pencils by Ladurée. As for my erasers, I chose to include as set of quirky and fun 3-pack gem erasers by Kate Spade. I always think that if you purchase things that look nice you're probably going to be more tempted to use them and take better care of it. That is why I chose these as my must haves because I tend to be rather careless of my pencils and pens, and always lose them somewhere.
• Next thing on my list of back to school essentials is a pen. I always think you need one or two standard pens for the school year, and you don't necessarily need to go all out in different colors and designs. I chose a 2-pack of wooden blue pens sold at asos. 
• Pencil cases are always needed no matter what grade you are going into because it keeps you organized and you are less likely to lose your things if you put everything in one place. This adorable Kate Spade case is visualized as a piece of notebook paper with the text, "Dot your i's and cross your t's."
• Notebooks are an essential in every student's bag, so I chose to include these 2 medium pink paper notebooks by a brand called Shinola. These notebooks are rather small for daily note taking, but they are perfect for quick notes and reminders that you might need throughout the day (they are 9 inches by 7 inches)
• An agenda always comes in handy if you have a very busy schedule and need to plan out your day and your assignments. I chose this gold polka dotted Kate Spade agenda which have both monthly and weekly pages so you can be more organized and planned out. 
• Also handy for quick reminders are sticky notes. These pack of sticky notes sold at asos are shaped as butterflies and remind me so much of early childhood, which I thought was a plus.
• On with the mathematics tools, calculators and rulers might be available in some classrooms but it's always a good idea to bring your own. The calculator I chose to use in my set is unfortunately sold out but you can always purchase something similar at your local Target or Office Depot (or anywhere that sells office supplies). As for my ruler, I chose to use the one that came with the Kate Spade pencil case as mentioned earlier in this blog post. The inches only go up to 6 inches, so it might be a smarter idea if needed, to purchase a standard 12-inch ruler at your local office store.
• Next, is a novel of your interest you can read during your free time or during study hall. This can be about anything as long as you enjoy reading it and won't get bored of it later on in the year. I chose to use "Eleanor & Park" because I am thinking of reading it this year, just by looking at the interesting synopsis in the back of the book.
• Lastly, is an ipad. If you're attending University or even high school this year, an ipad or tablet might come in handy for quick access to internet or basic tools such as a calculator, world clock, compass, etc. This might not be for everyone, but I myself have an ipad mini and it is definitely useful for school related activities. 

Thank you so much for reading, and good luck to those of you who are attending school this September.

Xx

5 Coral Lipsticks for This Summer

I know that July is near coming to an end and that means summer is coming to an end also! August kind of ruins my mood because of how stressed out I feel in comparison to the cool aura I have during the summer months. I haven't made a blogpost on this yet (typical procrastinating Bella) and I feel like I really should because coral lipsticks are definitely go-to color for this time of year. I chose 5 different lipsticks, with a mix of high-end products for those of you who enjoy a splurge, and drugstore products for those of you who are more budget tight when it comes to buying things. 

The first lipstick is from the ever-famous MAC, and it is in the color Morange. This is definitely very orangey and has a nice in between balance between a pinkish coral and an orange coral.

The next one is a very high-end product which is the YSL Rogue Pur Couture Lipstick in the color 52 Rosy Coral. This color is, without a doubt completely coral and looks so sweet to wear with a nice white sundress.

The next is a hydrating lipstick from Sisley in the color L11. This is a totally subtle orange shade and not as coral-ish as the ones before. I still really like this shade because it is the perfect transitional shade for summer to autumn.

These next two are drugstore lipsticks which are more economical friendly. The first one is a very bright red-orange color by Rimmel Kate Moss in 110. Although this is not as much of a coral color you might like, this would look very pretty to put together any summer outfit and make it pop more.

The last lipstick is by Topshop and it is in a really pretty color called Macaroon. This is a more pale pinkish coral color like the YSL one I talked about previously.

Also, I would not like to forget to include where this adorable makeup bag is from. This bag is in a coral and cream color with the caption "LIPSTICK" printed across. This is from Forever 21 and I'll add a link later so you could buy it if you would like. And it's less than 7 bucks! Winner!

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Prices:

MAC: $16

YSL: $36

Sisley: $53

Rimmel: $4.23

Topshop: $12

Forever 21 Makeup Pouch: $6.90

What's your go-to summer shade?

Xx

5 Coral Lipsticks by bellacharlie 

Dressin.com: Product Review

About a month ago, I was contacted by a website called Dressin.com, asking me to promote their products via my Polyvore account. I looked through their website and instantly thought all of the clothes looked so cute and stylish. I was a bit weary though, because the site originates in China and many of the items they had to offer were fairly cheap. I decided to agree to collaborate with them and they were nice enough to let me pick out clothing items of my choice. 
I picked out 3 different pieces and I am going to give you a completely honest review.

Price: $7.71

Rating: 7.5/10

This first one is a sailor type of shirt. I fell in love with it when I saw how lightweight and doll-like it looked. When I took it out of the packaging, I saw how it wasn't exactly a light chiffon as stated on the website. The material definitely wasn't my favorite and the threads were coming undone only after a couple hours after wear. It was also slightly small but that's very common, as it is from an Asian clothing website and their clothes tend to run small.

     

Price: $6.10

Rating: 5/10

The next things I got were these adorable sleeveless peter pan collar tops with a sheer swiss dotted fabric. I ordered one in black and another one in white. I didn't like this one as much as the first one and was fairly disappointed in this purchase. First off, the material is incredibly see-through and thin, you would have to wear a camisole underneath to prevent flashing anyone.The arm holes were also extremely tight. It runs very small so I would suggest buying 2 sizes bigger than you normally would wear. I am usually a US size 4, so I ordered an Asian size medium. I felt like this would've fit a 5 year old. The silhouette also wasn't very figure flattering at all and just kind of looked frumpy and sad. 

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Overall, I would say you get what you pay for. The clothes were really pretty but it's definitely not a boutique kind of shop. I would say, don't expect anything too over the top. But if you like cute, cheap clothing I think you would enjoy shopping here. Also, customer service is amazing and super helpful. So, if you are not satisfied with your purchase, contact them.

All opinions stated here are my own. I was not paid by Dressin.com to make this blogpost.

Dressin.com

3 Ways to Wear Dungarees this Summer

It's the nostalgic trend EVERYONE is catching on to: dungarees. Dungarees and playsuits in general, really brings that 90s vibe to any outfit. It is so casual and can make any outfit look a bit more playful and quirky. I've created 3 outfits that include this tricky trend so hopefully you will get an inspiration by these because I know it might be hard to wear dungarees without looking like a toddler.

Diana by bellacharlie

This first outfit is very "90s kid" inspired. It features a Topshop bleach washed pair of dungarees, matched with an off the shoulder Monki striped top (which is sold out), and simple white Superga trainers. I completed the look with a colorful pair of Miu Miu sunglasses. I really like this because it is the perfect outfit for a picnic with friends, a day by the lake, or a walk in the park. It is extremely casual and youthful, which is perfect for summer. 

Moment by bellacharlie

This next outfit features black dungarees and a gingham bardot crop top, which are both from Topshop. I included a pair of Ray-Ban light brown sunglasses and all white dainty Converse sneakers. I am obsessed with monochrome at the moment; its simple and sleek style is just perfect any time of the year. Although it is summer and black and white outfits might not be everybody's cup of tea, you could always add some color by replacing the white converse for a pale pink pair, or paint your nails a more vibrant and summery shade. In my previous blogpost, I explained my dislike for bright nails and my love for more muted shades, but in an all black and white outfit, colorful nails are a wonderful alternative to my usual subtlety. 

My Everything by bellacharlie 

This last outfit is definitely more of an occasional outfit. This could be worn for a night out with friends or a fancy dinner. This look still has the casualness the dungarees portrays though which I love. I used the same black dungarees as the one I used in my previous outfit and a silk button-down crop top from Topshop Unique. I used a stunning pair of sparkly loafers by Chiara Ferrangi. All of the shoes she designs are so quirky and eccentric but in the most wonderful way possible. I made a whole collection dedicated to my favorite statement shoes created by her. Anyways back to the topic, I used really pretty Thierry Lasry sunglasses that matches the color theme of this outfit. Lastly I opted for a simple white crossbody bag from CHLOE, which is sold out everywhere unfortunately. I went for white because this outfit might seem quite dark and heavy and a white bag adds a bit of lightness and airiness to the outfit.

How will you style dungarees? Xx

Topshop Candy Colored Nails

Well first off, Happy Fourth of July! I hope you are having a wonderful Independence Day if you live in America, and if not I hope you are having a nice day wherever you live.

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On with the blogpost 

 Personally, I tend to like pastel shades rather than bright ones on nails. I know that since it's July, most people are using bright summery shades, but some people like me don't really care for intense and vibrant nails. I decided to make an inspirational set for those who don't usually go for bright shades this time of year and like more of the muted or subtle nail colors. This set is inspired by the color tones of marshmallows, and the lightweight airiness marshmallows portray. I chose to stick with three main shades.

From left to right

• Topshop Nails in Keep Me Sweet
• Topshop Nails in Au Naturel
• Topshop Nails in Caught Your Eye

Topshop Candy Colored Nails by bellacharlie 

The first two shades I mentioned are unfortunately sold out at the time of writing which makes me really sad. But you can still buy similar shades like this basically anywhere.

My dad

This is sort of a late Father's day post but I needed to write this because it needs to be said. 
My father is amazing and it kills me that I don't show enough of my appreciation and love towards him. He's always there for me when I need him, and he's always good for advice and company. He's not always home; he has work in another state and comes home every 2 months or so. I miss him everyday and sometimes I will admit, I feel like I get used to being alone without him. It's awful that I'm so comfortable with that but I know that there is always a missing piece to our family when he's not around. He's not the perfect father; he has his flaws, he knows when he's done something wrong, or when he makes a huge mistake and won't own up to it, but he tries his hardest. He tries to be the best dad a daughter could ask for. If you ask me, my sister, and my half siblings, we would all tell you that our dad is the most caring and determined father we could ever ask for. He's always there even during the rants I have, and when I stress him out and be quite the handful, but he never gives up. It's easy for him to just walk away and say "I can't do it anymore" but he doesn't because he's strong. I admire him for that. 
This past year, he's become sick and has been hospitalized a few times. He's getting surgery and I pray that everything will be alright and soon he'll be healthy again. I love him to the moon and back.

A quick note: To all of you who have their father with them, I suggest you go and hug him and tell him how much he means to you. Even if he's not living with you, pull out your phone right away and spend just a few minutes, or even hours, talking to him and cherishing every moment you have with him.

-Bella Xx

Beach Bag Essentials

I know in most places across America, summer break has already started and what better way to celebrate than a summer getaway to the beach? I love the beach; the waves, the crisp fresh air, the sand between my toes, it's all very relaxing and comforting. I've made a fashion/beauty set on what I would pack in my beach bag.

Sacrifice by bellacharlie featuring VIPP

Well first you'll need a beach bag, I picked one from Jack Wills which is sold out, but their site has a variety of different beach totes you could choose from (I recommend the Lesterton Bag, Billington Tote, and Honlington Totes as wonderful beach bags).

Next a lightweight coverup is always a must just in case it gets chilly while you are in your bikini or swimsuit. You could use lightweight dresses too as an alternative but I went for a cute ruffled playsuit that I am in love with.

Sandals to compliment your cool and fresh attire always do the job. 

A white towel for after your swims in the ocean.You could always opt for the colorful beach towels instead, but I went for classy and simple.

Now for the little accessories that are needed on your long and romantic beach walks:

• Bobby pins to pull your hair back during breezy beach days, the ones I chose are sold out but you can always purchase some from literally any fashion or beauty store.
• A brush (or brush set) and neutral muted blush so you could touch up by doing fresh and simple makeup after the day is over and it's time for a night out. 
• A texture hairspray so you could do your hair in gorgeous and bouncy beach waves with the surfer girl appeal.
• Facial sunscreen and sunscreen in general so you won't end up looking like a fish stick at the end of the day.
• A lip balm with spf because who wants chappy, burnt lips on the perfect summer day.
• Breath mints for after the delicious fish tacos you ate for lunch (and trust me you will want to eat fish tacos by the seaside, I guarantee it)
• And of course if you are going on summer holiday/vacation you're going to need to update your phone case and change it into an adorable summery one with the cutest sayings. Here are some other options: this blueish case from Nordstrom Rack with the saying "You are my sunshine my only sunshine" , this Kate Spade case with the saying "The world is your oyster", this ridiculously adorable Juicy Couture case with the saying, "Beach don't kill my vibe", this case from Society 6 with the saying, "Hope anchors the soul"

Spring/Summer Collection with Fevrie

Bella's Fevrie Sets by bellacharlie on polyvore.com

I keep on forgetting to blog about this, so here it is. While working with Fevrie on a collaboration, I created 16 sets for them that revolve around different spring styles. I've put them in a collection that you can look through for inspiration. This blog post is really long so bare with me.

• The first one that you see definitely has an edgy feel to it with a "let loose" kind of vibe, I'd like to think. I absolutely love love love the fringed camisole top that you can get at H&M.
• Next, you have a spring outfit that can be used for more of a chilly day, which is why I included this lovely neutral colored pea coat you can get by Moschino Cheap & Chic. 
• This next set is also a very edgy party outfit, as you can tell by the leather pants and fringe crop top. 
• My next set is very casual chic and I love it so much, especially the fringed tassel bralette from Free People. (Yes more fringe)
• This next set is kind of a baby doll kind of look, with the cute nude flats and the simple blue dress.
• Next, this set can be used for a cold spring day where it is still sunny, which is why I included a cropped cashmere sweater but I still incorporated cute sandals.
• The next set is definitely one of my favorite Fevrie sets I've made. I love the bold colors and those loafers are ridiculously cute.
• I love this next set, it has an edgy vibe like the ones you saw earlier. This is a menswear inspired outfit, with a feminine twist. (Cue the gorgeous brogues and denim shirt)
• The next set is a pretty and girly set that includes all your must-have spring staples; espadrilles, destroyed denim jeans, lightweight flowy camisole, and a delicate fragrance that completes the look (I used a lovely Jack Wills perfume but it is unfortunately unavailable at the moment).
• I really adore this next set because of its nostalgic simplicity and femininity it displays. Remember, always opt for your go-to destroyed denim boyfriend jeans for a casual spring outfit. 
• This next set is more of an occasional outfit that can be worn to a spring or summer wedding, and it really goes well with this year's trend as a two-piece dress.
• The next set is so adorable and reminds me of elementary school, with its t-bar flats and warm stockings, paired with a sweatshirt featuring the lovely Lucy Van Pelt.
• My next set is also an adorable child-like set which features a very cute Topshop ice cream graphic jumper (which is unavailable at the moment, but I'm sure you can find other graphic sweatshirts similar tot his one).
• This is really edgy (I think I am really into edgy outfits now...) and features a casual Topshop bomber jacket that is a spring staple. 
• I am really proud of this next set as it can be dressed up with a pair of glamorous pointed toe flats and a blazer, or dressed down with jelly sandals. 
• My last set is very edgy and rocker chic and I just had to include these amazing and stylish brogues. 

Fevrie products I used in this collection:

Heart necklace, pink bangle, mood ring, gold crossed ring, chunky heart necklace, pearl headband, gold linked bracelet, silver bracelet (that is unfortunately sold out), pearl ring, poison ivy ring, daisy skirt, silver bangle (that is also unfortunately sold out), floral short shorts, plaid bralette crop top    

www.fevrie.com

Mother's Day Breakfast: French Toast

Since my mom is the best mother I could ever have (and I mean that 110%), I made her a Pre-Mother's Day breakfast today. I surprised her with sweet french toast, warm maple syrup, hash browns, bacon, juice, and green tea. She loved it and was so surprised.
This is the recipe I used for the french toast I made her, just saying this will be the best french toast you will ever try. EVER.

Indgredients you'll need to buy (or borrow from your neighbor)---better yet, you can just invite all of the neighborhood mothers for a delicious brunch. Oops got a bit off topic...
So anyways you will need:

• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg 
• 2 tbsp sugar (or maple syrup or honey, depends on what you fancy)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 c milk (whole milk will taste a lot richer)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 8 slices stale white bread (tastes a whole lot better than soft bread that will turn out soggy)
• toppings: warm maple syrup, fruit, nutella, berries, powdered sugar, cream cheese, etc.

Recipe adopted from Robert Irvine

Steps:

1. In a small bowl (I used a ramekin), combine cinnamon, sugar, and nutmeg
2. Melt butter over medium heat on a skillet (use a nonstick cooking spray before buttering the skillet to prevent the butter burning)
3. Whisk together the cinnamon mixture with eggs, milk, and vanilla (make sure ingredients are at room temperature for a richer flavor) and pour into shallow pie dish
4. Dip bread into egg mixture (whisk the mixture very well so it has a smooth consistency and prevents any excess bits of fried eggs hanging out)
5. Fry until golden and flip 

This recipe serves 4 people

Also, this recipe tastes delicious with a quick and easy berry compote I created:

1. Preheat a small saucepan over a stovetop on medium heat
2. Add 3/4 c of mixed berries
3. Add ice cubes and 2 teaspoons of sugar (optional)
4. Stir with wooden spoon and add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch 
5. Let cool for 10 minutes and serve

This recipe serves 2 people

I am also making another Mother's Day surprise for my mom tomorrow, so expect a blog post on another delicious recipe soon. 

Have a wonderful Mother's Day weekend! Xx

The First Collaboration Project: Fevrie Fashion

A couple of weeks ago, I got a message from an independent fashion brand called Fevrie. If you are not aware of Fevrie, it is basically a fashion brand with a style that comes from Californian roots and inspired by the luxury of French culture. Their pieces are really bohemian inspired (just think of Coachella trends, and that is basically Fevrie's overall style.) They carry clothing items, as well as jewelry, accessories, and swimwear.

A social media coordinator from Fevrie told me that they were interested in working with me to promote their company and I was completely flattered and shocked that I even got an offering. I told them that I would be honored collaborating with them because a) I would love for their brand to get more recognition because their clothing items are really lovely, b) this can be a potential start to my fashion career, c) working with different brands can really give me an insight on different trends and styles around the country and perhaps even the world.

They were extremely lovely enough to send an item of my choice to me. I chose the "Quilted Queen Jacket" because of its sophisticated and simple silhouette and look. 

Product Review: This jacket is cropped so it can be worn with pretty much everything. It has a boxy silhouette for more of a mod and office chic look. It is very thick and cozy, perfect for autumnal months but not exactly a go-to jacket for the Spring/Summer season. 

Buy this, and other products at www.fevrie.com and use the discount code BELLACHARLIE for 25% off your total purchase.
This offer ends May 31, 2015

The Best Carbonara

I am absolutely in love with Italian food; pasta in particular is one of my favorites. About a year ago, I attempted to make a carbonara since I have never tried it before and it resulted in a dry tasteless mess. Ever since then I stayed away from ever making a carbonara again. I kinda got traumatized by this incident until a couple months ago when I decided to give the carbonara another chance but with a different recipe. It turned out delicious and I'm in love with it. 

The chef who's recipe I got it from is Tyler Florence and he does a brilliant job in making it. 
I have revised the recipe so it would be enough for 2 people.
Ingredients you'll need are:

• 8 oz dry spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 oz chopped bacon
• 1 egg
• 1/2 c Parmesan cheese
• fresh parsley
• black pepper

The finished product, courtesy of Food Network 

Directions and some tips:

1. Cook pasta in salted water and drain Make sure you add salt after the water comes to a boil, the salt gives the pasta flavor 
2. Reserve 1/4 c of water (or more) This step is absolutely important because without the pasta water, the carbonara becomes dry and inedible 
3. Heat oil in a skillet on medium, add bacon and saute for 3 minutes 
4. Toss in garlic for less than a minute Don't cook garlic for over a minute or it will burn
5. Add the hot pasta and toss for 2 minutes
6. Beat eggs and cheese
7. Remove pan from heat Super important, you don't want scrambled eggs in pasta ew
8. Pour egg mixture in pasta and whisk fast Again, whisk fast or you will end up with scrambled eggs in your pasta and that is utterly disgusting
9. Thin out sauce with pasta water I have already mentioned this before but unless you like crispy pasta, I recommend you use the pasta water
10. Season with pepper in parsley 

5-Minute Highstreet/Drugstore Spring Makeup

For those days when you are too much of in a hurry to spend 30 minutes+ doing makeup, this natural makeup guide is perfect. I included one highstreet brand and one drugstore brand for those who like the luxury of an expensive high end makeup, or for those who don't have enough money to buy highstreet makeup but still want to look and feel amazing. For my highstreet brand, I used NARS and for my drugstore brand, I used Rimmel London.  

Highstreet & Drugstore Makeup by bellacharlie featuring nars cosmetics

This is a 5-minute makeup guide, so I went for the natural Spring look. 

1. Conceal imperfections, with Rimmel London Wake Me Up Concealer
2. Powder if needed, with NARS Soft Velvet Loose Powder
3. Apply a warm and natural flushed blush, with NARS Blush (I used it in Oasis)
4. Apply a natural colored eye shadow, with Rimmel London Glam Eyes Quad Eye Shadow
5. Use Rimmel London Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil, and apply NARS mascara (I used it in Kinshasa) 

I hope you've found this guide helpful Xx

Jumpers for Spring

I know that Winter is over and I am utterly devestated, (Winter fashion has always been my favorite) and Spring/Summer is here to stay for the next few months. One of my favorite Spring/Winter crossover clothing item are the light jumpers. When it's too hot to wear heavy overcoats and boyfriend coats but still a bit windy and chilly, jumpers are perfect. As usual, I will show you guys 3 different outfits which I put together with the featured trend; in this case jumpers.

Firefly Catching Days by bellacharlie featuring oversized sweaters

The first one is called Firefly Catching Days, inspired by Taylor Swift's song Innocent. This set captures the childish and naive nature a lot of us like to show through how we act, what we wear, or how we talk. I included key pieces that are a must in every child's closet (and every inner child's closet). These include of course a printed ice cream jumper by Wildfox, a kind of off-white colored sneakers by Converse, frilly shorts, lace trim socks by Topshop, and pink round sunglasses by Wildfox.

Messenger by bellacharlie featuring blue sunglasses

The second was is called Messenger, with the satchel as the key component of this set. I especially made this set for all the girls out there with pink hair. The shade of pink I included in the Polaroid compliments this outfit perfectly. This set features items such as, a bow-printed jumper from Wildfox, a satchel from the wonderfully famous Cambrige Satchel Company, Dolce and Gabbana gingham shorts, and Saint Laurent loafers.

Infinite by bellacharlie featuring black flats

My last outfit, and perhaps my favorite out of the three is called Infinite. When I was making this outfit, I immediately thought of the show title, Orange is the New Black. And I know that the show has nothing to do with fashion and Spring trends, but I think the color orange can indeed be the new black. These colors pair together to perfection. Items featured in this set include a cropped jumper by Tibi, a pair of patterned shorts by Stella McCartney, black loafers by Dune Lexus, and a bright orange clutch by Saint Laurent. 

Do you have a favorite Spring jumper? Xx

Denim Jackets for Spring

I have grown an intense obsession this season for denim jackets. They are absolutely perfect for when it's sunny but still a little windy and chilly. I made 3 sets including this Spring staple, and it's inevitable for me to make more outfits with denim jackets from now on. 

Needing by bellacharlie featuring a topshop nail polish

My first outfit is called Needing, and I got inspired by one of my favorite songs, This Love by Taylor Swift. It's on her 1989 album and it is absolutely AMAZING. One line on this song especially caught my eye; "When you're young you just run, but you come back to what you need. Seriously pure genius. I included a Spring trend that is really popular this season, denim on denim. Items featured in this outfit include a denim top by Marc Jacobs, a denim jacket by Topshop, floral shorts by A.L.C., slip-on sneakers by Open Ceremony, sunglasses by Monki, and a scalloped clutch by BCBG. 

                                       Remember Me by bellacharlie featuring open toe flat sandals

My second outfit called Remember Me is also inspired by Taylor's song This Love, revolves around a different line, "Say you'll remember me standing in a nice dress, staring at the sunset." This outfit captures the chastity and purity This Love truly captures. This outfit features simple items such as a white dress featured on the Harper's Bazaar website, a denim jacket by Acne Studios, sandals by asos, the same white sunglasses by Monki I used in my first set, and a scalloped clutch by Kate Spade. 

Lola by bellacharlie featuring a square neck top

My final set called Lola is inspired by How You Get the Girl by Taylor Swift and includes a tricky Spring trend, mixing patterns. When I created this set, I had in mind the youthfulness Taylor displays in many of her songs. My inspiration for this set can be relatable to many girls like Taylor; girls who are strong, hopeful, and without a doubt loves to have fun. Even though they've been heartbroken, they still keep in mind that they are young and have a long life ahead of them which includes unexpected events and adventures. This set really captures the daringness of someone who isn't afraid to color outside the lines and experiment with fun prints and pieces. Items featured in this outfit include, a striped crop top by Topshop, floral shorts by Boutique, a denim jacket by Topshop, black sneakers by Converse, and sunglasses by Marc Jacobs.  

From denim jackets to floral shorts, what is your favorite Spring staple? Xx