Your Custom Text Here
During a busy week, it's always nice to take a deep breath with a relaxing night in. Tonight is that night, and I'm indulging in a few little at-home treatments.
- A pretty scented spring candle can transform any room.
- A fresh pedi. Tonight's color of choice is Clinique's Really Rio.
- An at-home facial treatment with Rouge Bunny Rouge's Make-Up Melt Cleanser. Total bliss and super smooth skin.
- The latest issue of Vogue.
- Early bedtime. A luxury like no other.
Image Source
There have long been two positions on style - French vs. Italian. The French certainly own all things "chic", but the Italians have glamour down to a science. (And it's not limited to Sophia Loren and Gina Lollobrigida, although they are incredibly glam, just check out It-Girls, Olivia Palermo or Bianca Brandolini for a more modern take.) I love and appreciate that je ne sais quoi; however, I'm often drawn to the polish and sophistication of Italian style. Check out these tips to infuse a little Italian sizzle into your style:
- Embrace Your Figure - Learn what looks great on you, not just what looks great editorially. Get personal with your tailor. A few minor tweaks make all the difference.
- Stand Out with Accessories. This doesn't mean they have to be large or flashy, but instead add personal touches for a little extra oomph.
- Sneakers belong in the gym. Flip-Flops belong at the beach.
- Add an air of mystery. A golden rule for a reason.
- Details make the difference. Something as subtle as a well-manicured hand (doesn't even need to be polished, but filed, buffed, etc.) or a bold red lip show that you put in the time and effort to look your best.
- Fragrance. Find your signature scent and don't leave home without it.
Who knows Italian style more than these two? Here are Dolce & Gabbana's Life, Italian Style Tips.
Need even more inspiration - click here.
In the bright lip debate I'm most often a red lip girl, but lately I'm veering towards the dark side, or as the case may be, the light side. Pinks ranging from bright barbie pinks to flamingo and even cotton candy feel fresh and new. To keep it from feeling too precious, I like more of a matte finish. Paired with simple skin (hold the blush) and a simple lined eye (a classic cat is my favorite), it's feels very riviera-chic. My current favorite is the Laura Geller Love Me Dew Crayon in Dragon Fruit Sorbet. It's super easy to apply, who doesn't love a chubby crayon, and the color wears beautifully.
Here are a few things things I'm loving this week:
- Everyone wants to achieve that chic French Girl Look. Consider this your cheat sheet.
- Serious morning motivation. #Iwokeupthisway Time to start body brushing.
- This Easter floral arrangement.
- Sales here mean never going home empty-handed.
- I like low effort, big taste meals for during the week. This one is an absolute favorite!
Enjoy the weekend!
Let it be known that I'm a huge advocate for coconut oil. I frequently use it as a moisturizer, especially right before bed, a deep conditioner and most recently, a must-have in the kitchen. (I recently made brownies with coconut oil that were a smash!) As you've surely read, oil-pulling is the latest craze to sweep the beauty industry, and if it's good enough for Gwyneth, it's good enough for me. I decided to give it a whirl...
Originating in the ancient Ayurvedic Indian natural medicine, the act of of Oil-Pulling was initially designed to reduce oral infection - think cavities, gum disease and sore throats. Now it's being held responsible for everything from teeth whitening to acne prevention. I've just tried it for the second time, and so far, the jury is still out.
Cold pressed virgin coconut oil such as VMV Hypoallergenics Know It Oil features fatty acids that are naturally native to the skin, and thus, make it a wonderful moisturizer - it quickly absorbs, locks in hydration and doesn't cause breakouts. It's also naturally anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-bacterial. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that it's great for oral care. In order to correctly "Oil-Pull" one is supposed to swish coconut oil in the mouth, like mouthwash, for 20 minutes ( I know, I know). The first time I couldn't make it past 8 minutes, and today I've move to 18 minutes ...that is what I call progress! From what I've read, the dental community is not yet fully embracing the practice, but I do feel like it has merit. I've decided to try it a few more times, after all who doesn't want a healthier, whiter smile?
Image by hilbrand bos
Today was a rainy Spring day in the city. Iffy and ever-changing Spring weather can make for tricky morning wardrobe choices - its chilly now, but what about later? You don't want to be without a warm enough coat, nor do you want to be all bundled up for no reason. Here are a few tips for looking pulled together during those tricky weather situations:
- Check the weather the morning of. Ok, this seems like a no-brainer, but it's definitely the first step. (I aim to never be totally unprepared for the rain-snow-lightening-heat wave, etc.) With that said, I admit that I'm fairly obsessed with knowing the weather at all times, and I like to be armed with all the details. The Weather Underground app is the best thing ever. It provides seriously local weather based on 42,000+ weather stations around the country, so you really know what is happening around you. I love that it gives you an hour-by-hour breakdown (crucial for deciding what to wear for the commute) and what the real temperature is vs. what it feels like.
- Layer Love - Spring in NY is incredibly fickle. In fact today it rainy, flurried and was sunny all in the course of a few hours! Arm yourself with layers that you can take on and off to avoid freezing or sweating. I like to op for layers of silk and cashmere which can provide warmth, but also let you breathe. I'm a huge fan of cashmere wraps. They offer warmth without bulk.
- Color Burst - When it's dull and grey outside, I like to make a point to wear a bright color to lift my mood. Love these colorful ones from Joe Fresh!
- Simple Hair - In the case of weather vs. hair, weather will always win. Adjust beauty routines accordingly. If hair is curly, embrace it! Otherwise go for a simple ballerina bun or braid, and some extra-hold hairspray.
- Bright Beauty - Nothing perks up a rainy day like a bright lip. Right now I'm loving an orange-red lipstick. I feels fresh and bold, but still entirely office friendly. Not a bold lip girl, try a bright manicure. Right now I'm wearing Lacquered Up by essie.
- In the Trenches - Nothing is more classic than the trench coat. I have a couple, but for chilly mornings, it's best to look for one that is lined and on the longer side. Michael Kors has some great ones.
- Wellies - If you get nothing else, invest in a pair of Hunter Boots. They give an air of English charm and keep feet dry.
- Travel-Size Umbrella - On those days when you're not sure what the weather will do, it's always best to have an umbrella just case. Look for compact, durable umbrellas that you can stash in your bag without weighing you down. I like Totes minis - they are light and available in a variety of colors and patterns.
Image via Google
Each year as we eagerly anticipate the Thaw, getting dressed each morning becomes a challenge. This year, it seems more difficult than ever - one day is gorgeous, the next is freezing, literally. Temperatures have been hovering at 43 degrees, but by mid-March the entire North East is ready...ready to put those tights away, ready to ditch that parka and ready to embrace all that is Summer in the city. This year, I'm welcoming Spring into my wardrobe with a few minor tweaks that seem to make all the difference.
- Pastel Power - Pastels are destined to be huge for Spring. I'm pairing cozy cashmere scarves in soft hues with my bolder winter jackets. The contrast between the light and dark feels polished, and the cashmere feels warm! My current favorite combination is cranberry and mint.
- Tailored, Angle-Length Pants - I recently picked up a great pair at Ann Taylor (here is a similar pair) that not only seems to match everything in my closet, but shows just a hint of ankle. That sliver of skin with a great pair of heels (or flats for that matter) instantly feels fresh and new.
- A Bold Lip - A classic red lip always works. Right now, I'm moving from my cool weather vermilion to warmer, more orange-based reds.
- Wearing White - That's right, I'm doing it way before Memorial Day. And that's okay because I'm pairing white jeans with a chunky black sweater or a classic chambray shirt for balance. However, do look for thicker denim to keep the warmth factor up.
- Cape Love - If the sun is shinning, I'll always opt for a cape moment. Look for one that cinches the waist to create definition, and opt for a sturdy, short handled bag, rather than a tote. Capes and shoulder bags do not mix well. I like to wear mine with an extra cashmere layer underneath in a coordinating shade. This way, the eye focuses on tailored silhouette.
Drink Up - Gorgeous pitchers make it easier!
I'm not one for resolutions. However, every December I'm inevitably faced with the question, "So, what is your resolution?" Cringe. This year, like most others, it's the same - just be "better" at things - floss more, do more charity, commit to yoga, the usual. Healthy to-dos that often get sidelined when life gets busy. Then I read that model Hilary Rhoda would resolve to drink more water every time it was asked if she wanted something to drink. Genius! I never drink enough water, and if she needs some, I definitely do - resolution conundrum solved! I'm happy to report that as we enter March, this is one thing that I've kept to. I may not be up to the prescribed 8 glasses, but definitely getting better! As for the yoga, well I did watch a video, on a mat, wearing my yoga clothes - that sort of counts, right?
