S by Shakira: Eau Florale

Stopped by the S by Shakira fragrance launch in the Meat Packing District a couple days ago with Erin. The event was held at Banchet Flowers which was the perfect floral oasis to house the event. Honestly, since moving to NYC I don't get to see a lot of greenery - and what I do see, seems dirty (if that makes sense), so it was definitely a refreshing change of pace.

With flower petals scattered all around and amazing floral arrangements blanketing the walls, it showcased what the fragrance is all about. Shakira is typically known for being sexy and edgy with a rocker chick appeal - but like a Transformer, there's more than meets the eye. The fragrance is meant to showcase Shakira's more feminine and delicate side.

The fragrance itself is sweet but not overpoweringly sweet and blends in the fresh scents of flowers like jasmine, heliotrope, bergamot and cassis with a heart of mixed berries, vanilla and musk. It's definitely a more complex scent with various layers - but there's a great familiarity of all the elements in the perfume which makes it work and seem comforting. Erin thought that it reminded her of the softness and sweetness of cotton candy but the surprising freshness of pink lemonade.

I'm by no means an expert in flowers or even really fond of them but I'm still in awe of all the arrangements of orchids and hydrangeas which were on display. It was very serene and almost calming. Downing a glass of prosecco after a long day at work didn't hurt either =]

There was a DJ in the background spinning out Shakira's hits in the backdrop while everyone was chatting and testing out the fragrance.

If you're a fan of floral and vanilla scents which have a hint of sweetness - this fragrance is definitely worth checking out. Just remember that perfume is personal and smells different on everyone once it absorbs and mixes in with the natural oils in your skin - so test it out on yourself and not on a swab. If you're looking for the optimal test experience, leave the scent on throughout the day and check in (i.e. smell yourself) periodically during the day.

The S by Shakira fragrance is also extremely affordable and starts at just $17 for a 0.5 oz bottle, $28 for a 1.0 oz bottle and $35 for the 1.7 oz bottle. It will be available at key specialty retailers, fine chain drug stores and mass retailers near you.

Now Wearing...

Loving today's amazing NYC weather! Could I ask for a more beautiful day? I just picked up this dress earlier this week and my co-workers told me that it was on this week's People.com fashion face off between Shakira and Taylor Momsen! So random :) Interestingly I think my outfit combines elements from both their looks!

Btw if you haven't checked it out yet, just found out that the Savvy is slashing prices tomorrow :) All shoes will be an additional 50% off. There's not that much left but great prices. All Denim will be $65 a pair or 2 for $100. Torn will be reduced further except for the fur.

Plaid Tunic/Dress - Torn by Ronny Kobo via Savvy Sample Sale
Ruched Leggings - Silence & Noise, Urban Outfitters
Octoganal Heel Sandals - Stella McCartney
Leaf Pave Necklace - Rachel Leigh
Toes - OPI Pamplona Purple (from the new España Collection)
Lips - Maybelline Red Revival (snagged one at Fashion Wk, has a pretty nice velvety texture)

Pop Stars Drop Their Pants

Has anyone else noticed how all of the female pop stars have been trading in their pants for leotards? Awhile back, Erin wrote about the pant-less trend on fall 2009 runways and the red carpet. And now it seems that this trend is in full effect - at least in music videos.

Beyoncé, "Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)"


Lady Gaga, "Poker Face"

I credit Beyoncé and Lady Gaga for kicking off this trend. I love how Beyoncé kept it classy in her black and white 60's inspired video, and while Lady Gaga always dances on the edge on trashy and tacky, she's does the pantless look in the most glamourous way possible.

Ciara, "Love Sex Magic"
Shakira, "She Wolf"

All of these ladies have amazing bodies and look great in their bodysuits, but I feel like it's already maxing out.  With Ciara and Shakira, they look like they're trying too hard.  A couple phrases come to mind, "leave it to the imagination" and "effortlessly sexy".  I think the splits and rump shaking paired with the leotards is overwhelming.  We get it; you're in amazing shape and totally hot.

By the way, please watch the video for "She Wolf" and tell me what you think - hot or not? One of the best comments I've read about the video, "I don't know if I should laugh or be turned on."