Kate Middleton is style perfection. She's glossy, refined and flawlessly polished. Around the time of the Royal Wedding, I, like so many others, became fixated on her hair. It was (and is) the picture of health. Since then I've been a bit obsessed with creating that same level of hair vitality and started experimenting with hair masks. While these won't instantly create locks a la Kate, I like to think working a hair mask into one's beauty routine is definitely a step in the right direction. I love the Fruits & Passion Monoi Nourishing Hair Mask. It's super rich, smells like a trip to the tropics and infuses serious moisture. I apply it at night, throw my hair up in a bun, and sleep on it for extra hydration. It's ideal for the weekend - you can just shower and go. No extra conditioning needed. When I want to add a bit of moisture during the week, I'll apply a healthy serving of coconut oil (VMV Hypoallergenics' Know It Oil is my favorite). It's ultra nourishing, without weighing hair down, and I apply it just to the ends of my hair (from the shoulder down). The formula is certified hypoallergenic, so I don't have to worry about breakouts and it absorbs quickly (without damaging any pillows!) It's the perfect at-home treatment to pair with a mid-week mani, facial or Bravo binge.
Happy Weekend!
Quote of the Day
Summer Reading: Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the French Revolution
As a completely self-acknowledged history geek, I'm not afraid to admit I love a good historical novel. Romanovs, (I always hope that somehow things will end better for them), Civil War (It's never completely Gone With the Wind....see what I did there. OK, forgive me, it's been a long day), and French Revolution (I think Marie Antoinette was misunderstood) are favorites. However, what I really enjoy, and what I think is the most interesting, are stories that speak to the women of the respective eras - how they lived, who they loved, how the survived. Since history books are often limited to the male-perspective, it's often in historical fiction, where like-minded authors have put together pieces of female history, where I get my fix.
Right now, I'm reading Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the French Revolution. I've just started, but I can tell that by the end, I'll be heading to Times Square with all the tourists to check out the display for myself!
Happy Weekend!
Friday Finds
This week has been a busy one to say the least. (And the pace doesn't seem to be slowing any time soon!) However, it's starting to really heat up (bring on the humidity!), and that alone is cause for celebration in my book. Here are a few things I'm excited about this week:
- These summer salads are beyond gorgeous. I want to try them all - especially this one and this one.
- Trying to have a sense of style in small space is undeniably hard. This guide makes breaks it down.
- June marks the beginning of wedding season. Ensure your complexion looks fab for the big day (even if it's not YOUR big day).
- Sharon Tate seems to be having another moment. This photo is my favorite.
- I'm a serious low-maintenance hair girl. However, this topsy-tail throw-back style has me intrigued.
Friday Finds
-On this cloudy Friday, I'm dreaming about Central Park picnics. This service makes prep even easier - and would make such a fun gift!
- Heading to Liberty State Park this weekend? Here is some polo-appropriate style inspiration.
- Stumbled upon this amazing blog and am already addicted.
- Gearing up for the summer means clam bakes at the lake. No beach? No problem! Create a stove-top version.
-Gwyneth is goop-ifying the beauty scene and you know it's going to be perfect.
Everyday Indulgences
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.
Happy Memorial Day
Friday Finds: Hostess Gifts
Memorial Day Weekend is the official kick off to the summer season, and means attending brunches, BBQs and long weekends. While a bottle of wine is never amiss, especially if it's the hostess' favorite, here a few fresh ideas to show your thanks:
1. Coffee Table Books. Purchasing them for yourself can feel a bit indulgent, but getting them as a gift feels just right! It also shows you know her taste and style, double win. (image)
2. Kitchen Accessories. I love a pretty apron (no sayings please!). Done right, these are fashionable meets function = an invite back. Pair with a fun ice-cube tray for the hostess who loves a fabulous cocktail (nothing dresses up a cocktail like a pineapple ice cube!). (image, image)
3. Cin Cin! Champagne is always a good idea, so is a summer rosado for dining al fresco. (image)
4. Monogrammed Anything. Show your appreciation by going the extra mile with a well placed monogram. Who could resist these? (image)
5. Say It With Flowers. Who doesn't love a big bouquet of their favorite flowers? Not sure what hers are? You can't go wrong with peonies in the spring or sunflowers or lilacs in the summer.