Bedazzle Me

As I scroll through the columns of merchandise on various websites, I can't help myself but sigh at each sequined and studded collar that permeates each piece. I want them all! But with my college budget, splurging $75 on a top (that is so recognizable, I'll probably only wear twice) just isn't in the cards.

I turn on the TV to VH1's popular series I Love The 70's to procrastinate further from starting that 10 page paper due in a few days. There, featured in black and white ads from '74, is the trademarked Bedazzler. Despite the sarcastic commentary from B level celebrities knocking it's worth, I immediately search for it online. "Maybe it'll be cheap on eBay," I say to myself (clearly I think it is the best invention since sliced bread). To my amazement, the Bedazzler is still sold to this day at craft stores like Michael's and Joann Fabrics for only $20. Finally, a way to DIY embellished blouses and denim.

Now, it is very easy to make something go from chic to tacky with embellishments. Unless you are looking for the guido-fab look, I suggest searching for design inspiration from magazine layouts and trendy online boutiques like Nastygal.com or ASOS.com. My copy? A studded collar on a pink chiffon tank.

I began by studding the outline of the collar.

Then I filled in the lines that I had established with the outline.

One problem with this is that it is not the strongest device and sometimes the studs stick to the inside of the setter. I got into the habit of just taking the sharp end of scissors and holding the stud in place as I pull the top off.

The finished piece!

The best thing about this is that you don't need to be an artist to do it. I'm talking to all those people who to this day can't color inside the lines. This requires very little skill and time and looks great at the end!

Moi!

I was 3yrs old and determined. There, sitting at the top of my sister's monstrous dresser was her shiny black tube of ruby red lipstick. I hovered between the bureau and the entrance into the room for what seemed like hours, weighing the pros and cons. To my toddler's mind, scaling the towering bureau just to get my hands on the tiny gem seemed worth the risk. Even as a child, I had a gargantuan fear of heights. So, I approached the dresser and clenched my tiny fists around the knobs. While maneuvering my toes around the second drawer, the half empty bureau shuddered under my weight but then miraculously retained its upright position. I exhaled a sigh of relief and continued on my trek. Once I was close enough to the top, I threw my hand over the top of the bureau and searched blindly for my prize. I felt it! I grasped the tube quickly and lowered it into my line of sight. Finally, I could have the beautiful red pout that every woman in my life flaunted in front of me every day. I relished in the moment, imagining how wonderful I would look. Alas, karma reared its dark head for my theft and sent the entire bureau toppling over me, breaking my wrist in the process. Luckily my mother immediately heard my cries and came running. And despite the unfortunate circumstances, I still held firm to that little tube of lipstick.

This story is an illustration of my own personal motto to live within my passions regardless of the obstacles that face me. Let's face it, beauty and fashion is EXPENSIVE. And if you aren't the 1% of Americans that can afford to buy designer labels, living the "fab" life is near impossible. I am here to tell you that it isn't. I have been a firm believer in DIY for my entire life. My tools? A sewing machine, makeup brushes and magazines galore! With a little bit of instruction and creativity, anyone can be me.