Posted by Nadia on May 11, 2018
- Events, Fashion
Photography by: Daniella Guzzo Photography
May is my favourite time of year. Not only do we get to enjoy the colourful blooms springing up all around us, we also get to celebrate our beautiful mamas! I love my mom SO much and am lucky to have her in my life. She’s my inspiration and one of the most resilient women I know. She radiates joy and love and I’m so proud of the women that I am because of the way she raised me. As the saying goes, “bloom where you’re planted”, my mom taught us to be graceful and delicate, and shine bright in the sun no matter where we are in life. She also showed us how to be enduring and grounded, to prepare and protect us for those stormy days we all face now and again. Although we did not have fancy things growing up, she always instilled in us the importance of self respectful, family values and gratitude; which outweighs ALL the fancy!
Happy Mother’s Day, to all the beautiful mamas out there! I’m fortunate to still have my mother in my life and our annual photo shoots mean so much to us. Thanks Daniella Guzzo, for sharing in our tradition with us and for always making us look and feel so fantastic!
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Posted by Nadia on Apr 27, 2018
- Fashion
Photography by: Daniella Guzzo Photography
Some days all you need is a fun polka-dot print and an eye catching clutch to make things better…
Outfit Details:
The iconic polka-dot is making a major appearance this season. We saw it on the runways and on the streets in our favourite fashion capitals. There’s a playful and charming energy that the polka-dot brings to an outfit and it’s a print that can easily be incorporated into your every day wardrobe. The size of the print plays an important roll when it come to body proportion. I often gravitate towards medium-size dots, as it suites my frame and stature. In general: the larger the print the bigger the statement. If it’s subtlety and understated you’re after, opt for a small print.
I love these wide-leg cropped pallazzo pants. The print, the micro-pleating and the overall style make them super versatile, comfortable and absolutely perfect for running errands or traveling. Plus they make a great statement! I paired the quirky pants with this box-cut black top and my black leather jacket; which adds a cool and chic element to this feminine look. I accessorized the look with my tan, patent leather Stuart Weitzman slides and my new Valentino Rockstud Clutch – which instantly elevates the ensemble!
For my 41st Birthday, I splurged on a gift for myself and invested in this Valentino Rockstud Clutch. It was such a great investment. In fact, each year I save up and buy myself a luxurious gift. Sometimes I treat myself to a trip or a new piece of furniture or art for the house; and others it’s a designer handbag. There’s something so satisfying about a new bag. It feels special and makes the simplest outfit look so extraordinary. I also love mixing high with low, and since the majority of my closet is thrifted, investing in a designer bag is my little reward for my hard work. AND it’s guilt-free shopping.
Reference:
Ploka-dot Pants and Black Top: Thrift | Leather Jacket: Winners | Shoes: Stuart Weitzman , Holt Renfrew (past season) | Clutch: Valentino, Nordstrom
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Posted by Nadia on Mar 23, 2018
- Fashion
Photography by: Daniella Guzzo Photography
To say that Spring seems to be stuck in a state of limbo is an understatement! Oh my stars!! I feel like I’ve hit a brick wall over here and am seriously ready to shed some of these layers and show a little skin. In the meantime, here’s a little outfit I’m loving lately…
Outfit Details:
As you all may know, I’m slightly obsessed with second-hand shopping. It’s very addicting and I’m trying to get a handle on it, but it’s the thrill of the hunt that I love about it. And when I find authentic designer items like these Stella McCartney Elyse Star Shoes, you can only imagine the rush of exhilaration that ran through my body! I’ve had my eyes on these Stella platform oxfords at Nordstrom forever. They make every outfit look so cool and add the perfect London touch! They normally retail for roughly $1200 and I found them (in mint condition and never worn) for only $14.99 (!!). And how cute do they look with this dress?! (don’t be afraid to mix your patterns, ladies!!)
I’ve found many designer items in the past, as well as designers from other parts of the world, which we can’t find here in Vancouver. I’ve been very keen on sourcing Korean labels lately. My eye seems to be attracted to their style sensibility because of the quirky “anything goes” street style aesthetic. K-style has a unique and effortless way of playfully mixing classic, urban, avant garde and chic. Take this dress, for example. I love this classic windowpane print and it’s overall shape. The slight high/low hem is also fun and can be styled casually, like I did today, or with a pair of heels for work or a dinner date. It’s made with a light-weight wool fabric, which makes it a versatile piece to wear for our current indecisive climate.
I got this pebbled, stone gray, leather jacket at Winners a few years back. It’s a great colour option to brighten up your look for Spring, while keeping warm during this transitional Vancouver weather.
TREND ALERT:
Red, along with all the other primary colours, is so hot his season and a great way to add a pop of colour to your outfit. This bag is by Alexander Wang. It’s called the ‘Mini Rockie”.
Have a fantastic Weekend, everyone!
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Posted by Nadia on Mar 2, 2018
- Fashion
Photographed by: Daniella Guzzo Photography
The clear blue Vancouver sky we’ve been enjoying lately is making me feel like I’m on top of the world! I almost forgot how good the sunshine feels on my skin and how brightens everyone’s mood. In fact, I miss it so much that we’ve decided to head straight for it (and a pool) in Palm Springs! That’s right, I’m turning “Forty-One-More-Time” and I’m celebrating with the retirees – haha!! It’s a very last-minute and unexpected trip and the best part is that we’re surprising my parents! (Shhh…mum’s the word, ok?.) . We’ve never been to PS so it’ll be interesting to see how we like it. Who knows, maybe it’ll become our new getaway spot!
Wardrobe Details:
I went to New York last year with a girlfriend, and while we were there, we did a little shopping. I got this adorable Shift Dress at Century 21 and this shade of baby blue caught my eye. I’m really into these pastel tones for Spring and even more into a great bargain (this dress was only $19!!) It’s a perfect little number for a special event like a birthday or a wedding! And don’t even get me started on these Giannico shoes! The moment I spotted them, I knew I had to have them. The multiple patterns and colours allow me to mix-and-match them with other pieces in my existing wardrobe, plus, the blue leather panel really matched perfectly with the dress.
The Shift Dress:
The Shift Dress is a cut that hangs and floats away from the body and is suitable for all body types and sizes. It’s a timeless 1960’s inspired cut and this one in particular has a high collar and balloon sleeves, which really elevates the silhouette.
I’m 41! And guess what? I’m totally cool with it. It’s very liberating, actually. And I’m feeling an unexplainable confidence within me. I feel like this phase of my life is giving me permission to me to say, “f#@% it!” and embrace my life exactly as it is; perfectly imperfect! I’m feeling positive and optimistic about the plans for the future and can’t wait to explore the possibilities for the year ahead. The sky’s the limit, baby!
Have a great weekend, Everyone!
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Posted by Nadia on Feb 23, 2018
- Make-up, Tutorials
Photography: Union Photographers
This cold and snowy weather is making me crave the Spring sunshine! So this week, I’m sharing my step-by-step makeup tutorial (from an archive article in my Vancouver Sun makeover columns) showing how to go from a fresh minimal day-time look, to soft and sultry glam eyes for evening. To get started, you’ll need to prep your face with the basics: Primer, foundation, bronzer and concealer.
Step 1
Use our Nadittude – Love Nadia flat eyeshadow brush to apply the light-ivory shade from the Maybelline Nudes Eye Shadow Palette to the inner corner of the eyelid. This helps to open up and brighten the eyes.
Step 2
To define and add depth to the eyes, dip our medium detail blending brush into the medium-brown shade in the palette to the contour of your eyes. Use smooth and steady sweeps, back and forth, into your natural eye crease to create a guideline.
Step 3
Next, dip a our detailed blending brush into the coppery-gold eyeshadow and blend into the crease and upward slightly beyond the brow bone, as well as below the lower lash line. This creates a smoky effect and frames the eyes.
Step 4
Line the inner rime of the eyelid with a dark brown waterproof eye pencil. This is called “tight lining” and it fills in any white gaps and defines the iris. I’m using the Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Pencil in S-50.
Step 5
To brighten up under the eyes and conceal imperfections around the face, try using CoverGirl Outlast All-Day Soft Touch Concealer. It’s creamy, smooth and natural looking.
Step 6
False lashes can really amplify the eyes. To apply our Nadittude “Ciao Bella” strip lashes, you’ll want to start by measuring them against you eye shape and then trim off the excess length from the outer corners. Next, apply a light application latex-free lash glue on the base of the strip lash. I like to use Revlon Precision Lash Adhesive. Wait a few seconds until the glue becomes a bit tacky then place the strip lash as close to your natural lash line as possible, using tweezers. Once the lashes are on tight, gently curl them and coat your natural lashes into the false lashes with mascara.
Step 7
To set your makeup, use a setting spray. I like using the MAC Prep + Prime FIX Plus because it is infused with vitamins and minerals that hydrates the skin and provides a soft finish to the makeup.
Enjoy your Friday, everyone. For more makeup tutorials and makeovers, be sure to read my makeover column every Sunday in The Province and The Vancouver Sunday Newspaper.
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Posted by Nadia on Feb 16, 2018
- Events, Fashion
Photography by: Brooklyn D Photography
It’s a huge compliment and honour when people approach me, seeking my experience and knowledge in the areas of beauty and fashion. I take great pride in the work that I do with my clients and appreciate it when people trust in my ability to transform their appearance to enhance and empower the person they are on the inside. A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of presenting my “7 Style Sacraments” program to a group of corporate professionals at Keystone Environmental in Burnaby. Here’s how it went…
My assistant for the day was my stylist L’nielle, who is one of our makeup artists at the studio. She, along with our other artist Vanessa, offers one-on-one customized makeup lessons at our studio in Kitsilano.
Wardrobe Details:
Not all office dress codes were created equally, so why not add a little personality to your attire? These geometric print, balloon trousers are so fun! And although this cut is not for every body type, they really make a statement! I love the micro-pleating details through the tapered leg and around the waist, and of course the hidden pockets. They are comfortable, work well for all seasons AND they’re a thrift store find! I styled them with this simple black peplum top from Winners. This cut offers structure, femininity and defines the waist line. Also keep in mind that this cut works well when styled with your skirts, wide-leg trousers and/or jeans. I opted for nude shoes to complete the look, as they create a seamless effect and extend the leg line; and I’ll take all the length I can get – haha!
Style Sacrament #1: SASS – Shop According to your Style and Silhouette.
When you know your body type and the style category you identify with, shopping will be a breeze.
Style Sacrament #2: 5 C’s – Casual, Classic, Chic, Charming and Couture.
Determine your style category and create a wardrobe that suits your needs and personality.
Style Sacrament #3: W.O.R.K. Essentials
Create your ideal capsule wardrobe for Weekend, Office, Recreation and “K”night.
Style Sacrament #4: Shape, Ship, Shop:
Wardrobe editing helps you to eliminate the clutter and separate the “Keepers” from the “Creepers”.
Style Sacrament #5: D.L.D.B (Dark, Light, Dull, Bright)
Learn how to pull outfits together that you’ll feel great wearing and that have a balance of contrast, patter, texture and shine.
Style Sacrament #6: Five-in-5
Learn five easy and essential makeup steps that will help you get ready in less than 5 minutes.
#7: Prep, Prime and Polish:
Great hair starts with a customized style. Practice these 3 simple steps that will help you achieve your desired style that suits your hair texture and cut.
Thank you, Keystone Environmental, for hosting us and for allowing me to share my style tips with you.
For more information about my “7 Style Sacrament” program, workshops, personal shopping services and/or makeovers, get in touch: nadia@nadiaalbano.com or call 604-682-3016.
References:
Trousers: Thrifted | Black Peplum Top: Winners | Shoes: Jimmy Choo
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Posted by Nadia on Feb 9, 2018
- Fashion
Photography by: Daniella Guzzo Photography
Hey girl — it’s friday and I’m feeling feisty! Then again, being a confident Italian woman, I’m known for my stable yet quirky and enthusiastic personality. I’ve been described as being that “girl next door” type that everyone wants as their best friend because A) I’m always going to be there when you need me; either for a good laugh or when life gets real (ride or die baby!). B) I work hard and play hard, even though my preferred bedtime is 9pm. C) I make a mean tomato sauce and tend to over pour a glass of vino (which means I really like you…haha!) and D) I know a thing or two about style and beauty, and will always offer my honest feedback whether you like it or not. Oh and, don’t be fooled by my blonde hair; I’m almost 41 people and simply trying to minimize the gray – haha! The reality is that I identify as a bold and beautiful brunette; hence the sweatshirt. As you might be able to notice in these photos, I’m in love with BRUNETTE The Label. It makes me feel so happy! Seriously, what a FUN concept! I love the branding, the fit and the overall message that founder and designer, Miriam Alden, is sharing — “We believe the word BABE to be a way of life, and strive to create a community that is inclusive of all babes. Inspiring, elevating, strengthening each other to be the best version of ourselves”. I too truly believe in the idea of community over competition and that no matter what our hair color is or where we’re from, we need to support each other. Because at the end of the day, WE ARE ALL BABES!!
Outfit Details:
Who says you can’t make activewear look pretty? I’ve chosen to style my “Brunette” sweater with my faux-leather micro-pleated skirt from Winners. I wanted to step out of the box and demonstrate that activewear doesn’t always have to be styled with leggings or distressed jeans and sneakers. Granted, the athleisure look is absolutely adorable too BUT… if you’re looking for alternative styling options, this is a great look. The denim jacket lends a casual element and plays up the color tones in my floral print Manolos. And the overall ensemble offers a balance of contrast, texture and pattern. It’s feminine and fun, and perfect for a Valentine’s Day brunch date with your BFF! Can you imagine…how cute it would be if you and your girl-gang each rocked a different BRUNETTE The Label sweater at brunch? (I die!!)
Here are some of my other favorite styles: Blonde, Boss Babe, Babes Who Brunch, Babes Supporting Babes…the list goes on!).
Happy Friday, Everyone! And in case you didn’t know, we’re having a Valentine’s girls night in at the studio on Feb 14.
Here are all the details:
Event: GAL-ENTINE’S BEAUTY NIGHT!
Date: Wednesday, February 14
Time: 5pm – 9pm
Location: Nadia Albano Style Inc (#4-1874 W. 1st Ave)
Fee: $20 per person
RSVP: info@nadiaalbano.com or call 604-682-3016
Bring your best gal-pal on a date to our studio in Kits and experience a night of beauty, bubbly and pampering with our #NAStyleInc. Team! Event includes:
- Your choice of 1 of 3 makeup demos (sultry eyes, red lip or glowy skin
- Your choice of 1 of 3 hairstyles (love knot, french fishtale or curled and tousled)
- A chance to enter our “I Love my Bestie” Grand Prize Giveaway!
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Posted by Nadia on Jan 26, 2018
- Bridal, Events
Photography by: Brooklyn D Photography
Last Sunday, we celebrated the debut of the Fleur Wedding Show and Forum. The event was held at the new JW Marriott Hotel in Vancouver and produced by Aly Armstrong Event Planning. While the endless prosecco and yummy hors d’oeuvres were being passed around by the lovely staff at the Parq Vancouver, we engaged with our future brides and caught up with some of our favourite wedding industry friends. Here’s a look at what we experieced…
The Nadia Albano Style Inc. team (L’Nielle, Julie, Vanessa and I) was on-hand for a meet and greet, and to support with the hair and makeup services for the of the VIP speakers, including our dear friend Erin Cebula (our gracious emceed for the day), and our favourite Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe (whom I had the pleasure of beautifying!)
Founder of Fleur Wedding Show and Forum, Aly Armstrong with the panel of speakers
The New York Room designed by Koncept Events
Jewellery Designer Elsa Corsi of Jeweliette Jewellery
The Debut Event Design vendor booth, with the cascading ombre florals, was so fresh and bright; and one of my faves!
Ana Elizabeth Cakes
Flower Wall by Flower Factory
We had SUCH a lovely time at the Fleur Vancouver Wedding Show. HUGE thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible and to Debut Event Design , Lele Chan, and Flower Factory for helping us set up our booth – BIG Love!!
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Posted by Nadia on Jan 16, 2018
- Events
Photographed by: Daniela Ciuffa Photogtaphy
So what do you do when you’re desperate for a little R&R with your hubby but don’t want to deal with the hassle of airports, canceled flights and airport security? You plan a staycation in your own City and check-in to the Opus Hotel Vancouver! That’s right, we “checked out” for the weekend and stayed at this chic and urban getaway, located in the heart of Downtown, Vancouver. The property has been around for almost 20 years and the folks here treat their guests like rockstars! From the moment we arrived, we were immediately greeted by the warm and friendly staff. They showed us to our suite, which had lots of personality and great views of the city. You’ll noticed very quickly, based on the eclectic decor throughout the property, that they like to add a little “flavor” for the guest experience. From the brightly colored “Lifestyle Muse” rooms, to the unique artwork and the mini-bar; the suits are off the hook! Let’s just say it’s definitely not cookie cutter…
We dropped our things off and decided to go for a walk through Yaletown; a super trendy district in Vancouver, if you’ve never been. We felt like tourists in our own City and did lots of exploring (and a little shopping too). We had coffee at Small Victory Bread & Coffee and popped into The Cross Decor and Design for a little home decor inspo. We had dinner at Minami, which is a Japanese restaurant specializing in Aburi style sushi. It’s definitely a worth while experience and the seafood is super fresh! We hit up The Greek by Anatoli, which is a super hip greek restaurant with great music and a fun vibe. They offer all your favorite traditional dishes, which are perfect for sharing.
Yaletown Musts:
West Oak, La Pentola, Rodney’s Oyster Bar, Wild Tale
After spending the day perusing the shops in Yaletown, we headed back to the hotel to freshened up for dinner. It’s funny because at home we each have our own bathrooms (well sort of…). He likes our shower in the en-suite and I prefer taking baths in the guest bathroom. Lucky for us, we had the best of both world in our suite! Ironically though, after all that getting ready business, we cancelled our dinner plans and just staying in…
When planning a staycation, breakfast in bed is a must! I always see this in the movies but we NEVER really do this at home. Honestly, it’s so nice to just hang out in your room, with nowhere to be. We pretty much just ordered room service all day, lounged in our robes, laughed a lot and watched movies. It was truly blissful and just what the doctor ordered!
The Opus Bar is a perfect place for a date night. Our work schedules are unpredictable and completely opposite; we’re like two ships passing in the night. Our only day off together is on Sunday (if we’re lucky), so it was a luxury to be able to dress up in our nice threads and enjoy some one-on-one time together. I secretly wanted to re-enact that scene from “Pretty Woman”, where Richard Gere meets Julia Roberts at the hotel bar for the first time after her transformation (Ugh…that movie never gets old!).
I digress, not only are the drinks at the Opus Bar good, the music and overall vibe is super chill and moody and they have Happy Hour daily from 3pm – 6pm! We love people watching and noticed a diverse mix of people. Plus the layout of the bar and lounge makes it really easy to strike up a conversation with others; which is always fun!
We enjoyed a lovely lunch La Pentola; an Italian restaurant located in the Opus Hotel. The menu has lots to offer in both individual orders and family style options. We had the Ricotta Beet Root Salad and the Pasta Bolognese, and Oh. My. Gawd…it was so delicious! In fact, we enjoyed it so much that we made reservations for our friends to join us for brunch on Sunday! We try to plan a gathering with our friends several times per year. Sometimes life gets in the way and it doesn’t work out, but we all make an effort to connect and make memories together. Thanks for coming out everyone!
One of my favorite features on the exterior of the building is the wall mural. Each season it changes and I absolutely love this one! It depicts Vancouver so well; colorful with a chance of showers – haha!
Next time you’re in the area be sure to strike a pose, snap a pic and post it on your Instagram. Use the hashtag #itlovebaby and be sure to tag the artists who designed it @fletcherenglish along with @opushotel.
THANK YOU Opus Hotel Vancouver, for hosting us this weekend – we had a blast! It was truly one of the best weekends we’ve had in a long time. The property is gorgeous, the restaurant and lounge were awesome and the staff were so accommodating and considerate. I love that we were in the center of the City because it gave us so much to do and got us out of our regular routine. Both my hubby and I feel rested and recharged, and believe it or not, we we’re already planning our next staycation! That’s love baby – xo Nadia.
References:
Lifestyle Shoot Produced by: Nadia Albano | Photography: Daniela Ciuffa Photography | Venue: Opus Hotel Vancouver, Opus Bar, La Pentola Restaurant | Opus Hotel Vancouver Brand Director: Katherine Evans | PR Managment: Chella Levesque
Outfit Details:
Leopard Coat: Vintage | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Jeans: Gap (last season) | Top: Winners | Necklace: Jeweliette Jewellery
Green Sequins Dress: Thrifted
Black Floral Dress: Thrifted | Metallic Leather Jacket and Shoes: Zara (last season)
Silk Kimono Jacket: Thrifted | Black Cami: Century 21 NYC | Floral Pallazzo Pants: Winners | Shoes: Valentino
Red Dress: Anthropologie (last season) | Denim Jacket: JBrand | Shoes: Sophia Webster
“Babes Supporting Babes” Sweat Top: Brunette Label
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Posted by Nadia on Dec 31, 2017
- Hair, Make-up
Photography by: Union Photographers.
Happy New Year’s Eve, Everyone! I’m ending the year off with a beauty BANG! That’s right folks, it’s a two-in-one makeup and hair tutorial to get you inspired for tonights festivities! Follow along to get the look…
Step 1:
After you’ve evened out the complexion with primer, foundation and bronzing powder, you’ll want to sweep the entire eyelid with a gray eye shadow base. I’m using MAC “Shroom”.
Step 2:
Using the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick in “Sapphire”, draw a thick line along on the eyelid, along the base of the lashes, then smudge the liner upward toward the crease of the eye, to create a smoky effect.
Step 3:
Using a medium blender eye shadow brush, sweep the crease of the eye with royal-blue eyeshadow to soften and blend out any uneven lines. For this technique, I’m using Makeup Geek Foiled Eyeshadow in “Center Stage”
Step 4:
Using the same eyeshadow as previous (Center Stage), rim the lower lash line using an angled liner brush.
Step 5:
Rim the waterline (aka: tight line) with a iridescent waterproof turquoise-blue eye pencil. This creates a slight contrast to the navy blue tones happening on the eyelid and adds an additional layer of color to the look. The pencil I’m using is Make Up For Ever XL – I32
Step 6:
To complete the shadow design, and to play up the turquoise rimmed waterline, dab a hint of turquoise eyeshadow to the inner corner of the eyes. I selected a shade by Makeup Geek called “Pegasus”.
Step 7:
Clean up and brighten under the eyes using Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer. I suggest using a shade that is the same color as your complexion or one shade lighter. Next, curl the eyelashes and heavily coat them with black mascara.
Step 8:
Add a hint of peachy-pink blush to the apples of the cheeks using our “NadittudeTM – Love Nadia” Cheek Enhancer Brush.
Step 9:
Complete the look with a hint of peachy-pink blush and a sheer-pink tinted lip balm. I’m wearing Mereadesso Tinted Lip Treat in “Sheer Pink’.
Part 2: Vintage Inspired Hair
Now that your makeup is complete, you’ll want to get started on the hair style for the evening. Here’s how to get a vintage hair style with a modern twist…
Step 1:
To start the style, you’ll want to spray the KMS – ThermaShape 2-in-1 Spray. This primes the hair for heat protection and provided up to 72 hours of hold.
Step 2:
Next, you’ll want to take 2-inch sub-sections, starting from the part side, and wrap the hair around a 1.25” curling wand or curling iron. Be sure to curl the hair in the same direction and away from the face.
Step 3:
Continue curling the rest of the hair until you reach the front piece, which should be the last piece you curl.
Step 4:
Spray the hair with KMS – Makeover Spray (dry shampoo) to cool down and set the curls. This product is also great for thickening limp hair and for absorbing oil.
Step 5:
Brush the hair out using a densely bristled brush to smooth out the curls and create a vintage inspired wave.
Step 6:
Dispense a few pumps of KMS – Texture Crème into your hands and rub your hands together to warm up the product. You’ll notice that this product will smooth out and bundle the hair while providing a touchable hold.
Step 7:
Finish the style with a light mist of KMS – Firm Finish Hairspray for strong hold without residue or flaking.
Hope you enjoy creating this look as much as I did! Best wishes for a prosperous, healthy, beautiful and happy 2018. Thank you for you love and support. Writing this weekly blog for all of you is so rewarding and very special for me. I look forward to bringing you even more helpful and useful tips and content in the new year!
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