This summer, I’m hoping to add a little retro flair to my warm-weather wardrobe. Retro to me means a high waist, whether it be skirts, pants or shorts. Don’t be frightened into thinking that a high waist = mom jeans. When worn correctly, a high waistline will cinch in your middle while creating an overall flattering and feminine

silhouette. That’s why I was thrilled to see our Short Shorts from Cheap Monday come in last week. With a high belted waist, these dark denim shorts are just ready to be styled up with a pair of cute flats and button up top (not to mention hair tied up with a handkerchief and bright red lipstick).

For styling inspiration, I love how Kiera Knightly has paired a simple collared blouse with her high waist plaid bottoms.

A leggy Audrey Hepburn keeps the look chic with little heels and a plaid shirt.

Zooey Deschanel’s outfit goes all out retro with double breasted sailor shorts. The tights are a nice touch in that they make the look wearable for the cool months of spring.

I had never even heard of British actress Carey Mulligan until I went to see her staring role in An Education. And it wasn’t until I looked her up on IMDB that I realized I’d not only seen Carey play Kitty Bennet in the remake of Pride and Prejudice, but I had actually watched her perform live in Chekhov’s The Seagull at the Royal Court Theatre in London.

She had always stood out to me, but it wasn’t until An Education that I really took notice of the girl who’s rumored to be the next Audrey Hepburn. I loved watching her character’s growth throughout the movie, from the smart school girl who threw caution to the wind, to a woman who was wiser to the ways of the world but more spirited than ever.

Her fashion style also changes with her growth. She starts out in her plain school girl uniform and then experiments with her new grown-up lifestyle by donning elegant coats, dresses and updos. I loved the movie and the message, and her performance was fresh and honest. I look forward to seeing more of Carey’s work in the future, and this time, I won’t have to read her name in the credits to know who she is.

If having your own personal makeup artist sounds like a far fetched fantasy, then boot up that monitor and tune into YouTube. Now online, you can view demonstrations and product recommendations of real makeup artists, offering up their coveted advice to the wider world through cyberspace.

This post’s featured YouTube artist is “Pixiwoo,” which is actually a team of two sisters, Samantha Chapman and Nicola Chapman. Both are accomplished makeup artists based in London who’ve had experience doing makeup for television, fashion shows and music projects. From basics, such as how to apply eyeliner and foundation, to classic beauty icon looks, these girls tell all.

I was hooked on Samantha’s (pictured above) tutorials after witnessing her glamorous transformation in her Anna Nicole Smith makeup tutorial. I also loved Nicola’s quirky personality and ability to take daring leaps with makeup. To learn more about these talented women, visit their YouTube Channel and start experimenting with makeup yourself.

You can recreate Samantha’s Dior 1920′s makeup look for a flapper Halloween costume this fall or try Nicola’s Audrey Hepburn inspired make up look when you want to get dolled up for a night out on the town. There’s no doubt you’ll be inspired by the Chapman sisters’ work. Check them out today, and get glam!

For more information…

• Check out the sisters’ online blog to view photo stills and products of the week. 
• Visit Samantha’s website to learn more about her and to view clips of her professional work. 
• Take a peek at Samantha and Nicola’s Fashion Face TV page.