Maybelline Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara

I finally finished up my M.A.C mascara that I wasn't too fond of, and took a chance on Maybelline's Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara. I am really, really liking it. There are many different formulas out there that give a variety of results. For me, I tend to like mascaras that lengthen and separate. This one does just that, and I recommend it to anyone looking for that outcome.

Menswear Monday: The Summer Uniform, Part 5

The Oxford It’s date night, so you can’t look like a complete schlub.  Put on something with buttons, and for goodness sake, do something with your hair.  Still, just like hair gel and chest hair, wearing a loud shirt is going to make you look like a Miami Vice extra, not a regular dude.  So get basic: buy an oxford.

Cotton oxford cloth is woven loosely (compared to dress shirt poplin), making it more breathable.  So it’s ideal for warm weather.  Like khakis, they look better when they’re a little wrinkled and worn-in.

There’s nothing here to say that you need to buy a white oxford to match your white tees, but it wouldn’t hurt.  Light blue and white are the classic colors for a reason, but there are some other hues that work well, including grey, pink and yellow.  Stripes are also cool, as are contrasting white collars.

If you’re not wearing a tie, leave the collar buttons undone.   Look for one with a shorter collar if possible, so the collar points don’t get all disco fabulous when they’re spread out.  Also, since the Oxford is a pretty set style, look for cool details like contrasting cuffs and monograms to add some individuality.  If you want to get extra fancy, find a club collar; it’s an older style than the point collar, but if Ol’ Blue Eyes can rock it, then it’s definitely cool enough.

We’re particularly fond of the cuts and fabrics at Land’s End Canvas, Billy Reid, Brooks Brothers Black Fleece (designed by rock star designer Thom Browne), and Gant Rugger.  Since you can dress this shirt up to wear to work, too, you add some versatility that justifies paying a little extra for quality.

- Rob Hays

Clean & Contemporary

There's something to be said about a clean, sleek, contemporary look that gives your smile, face and body a chance to steal the show. These days layers, mixing textures and patterns are very popular, so, to me, this inspiration board that I have created feels like a breath of fresh air. Enjoy!

Ulta Beauty Products

Maybe you're like me, and whenever you go into an Ulta store you don't even give Ulta's beauty products the time of day. I usually check out the buy one get one free deals in the drugstore cosmetics section, scan the the higher-end beauty product prices and get a couple of hair goodies from the back.

Well, the other week they didn't have any good deals with Revlon, Cover Girl, etc., and I needed a new eyeliner before heading out on a trip. I glanced over at the Ulta beauty product section and saw they were having a special. I tested their eye liners on the back of my hand, and decided to try out their Automatic Eye Liner. I pulled out a shiny lip gloss for my freebie, and crossed my fingers in hopes that I didn't waste my money.

I am happy to report that I am VERY satisfied with the results. I'm saying good-bye to M.A.C.'s eye liner and hello to Ulta's because it's cheaper (it's on sale for $1.00!!!!) and I get the same results. Plus, their Super Shiny Lip Gloss is wonderful. It's not gummy AT ALL. It's shiny, very moisturizing and smells delightful. They are on sale for only $4.00 right now!!!

$5.00 for two new beauty products. How awesome is that?!