Stippling...

Oops! I switched blogging platforms! You'll be redirected to my new blog where you can search for "Stippling" to read about creating the airbrush look....hope you enjoy! Sorry for the inconvenience!

xoxo Kim

Remember in art class there was a technique called stippling? I'm no artist, I can barely write my name legibly, but I use this stippling technique every day...on my face. If you can't remember what stippling is, or didn't have an art class in school, it's basically drawing or painting with tiny dots. This method of applying foundation to your face is what creates the much desired "airbrush effect."

My post on the Flawless Face has been one of my most popular posts, so I thought I'd share another trick with you and demonstrate stippling. I learned this technique from a makeup artist several years ago, and it's a common technique used within the industry.

You'll obviously need a stippling brush, but if you don't have one or don't want to shell out the money for one, you can somewhat create the same effect with a makeup sponge or your fingers...but a brush is best. I actually just bought a great new foundation brush that I'm obsessed with:

This is Tarte's Airbrush Finish Bamboo Foundation Brush...and it's aahhhmazing! I highly recommend this brush, but if you'd like a more traditional stippling brush, Sephora has one in it's professional brush line. I have it as well.

Back to stippling...

You must start with a clean, moisturized face. How you care for your skin will greatly effect how makeup looks on your face. Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize ladies!

You could apply a primer next to help create an even canvas for your foundation, but I don't use primers unless I'm doing my makeup for a special occasion. So, next is applying foundation. I'm using a Christian Dior foundation: Diorskin Nude Skin-Glowing foundation, another great foundation if you're looking for a new brand. I just happened to have a bit of this left and I'm trying to finish it up...no sense in being wasteful!

I have my own method of stippling, and everyone is different, so go with what works best for you. I like to pump the foundation on my hand first, then lightly dip the brush into the foundation on my hand. And I do mean lightly. You'll be amazed at how little foundation you need when you start using this method.

Once you have a small bit of foundation on your brush, apply it to your face by "dotting" into your skin. Use short, quick taps and the foundation will blend smoothly. After blending well, dip your brush in more foundation and continue stippling across your face. It's that easy! The stippling helps create a smooth, even finish without using a ton of makeup. Of course you can build your coverage as needed for any red or uneven spots, acne, scars, etc. Stippling is also a great method when you're applying foundation over another layer...like primers or concealers.

Oh, and just an FYI...I know some makeup tutorials show you to "buff" and move your brush in circular motions, but that actually raises the small hairs on your face and makes your face look fuzzy (not attractive). It's best to brush using downward strokes so you don't lift those tiny hairs.

Here are links to the foundation I'm using, as well as brushes:


If you're trying stippling for the first time, leave me a comment and let me know how it worked for you!

Feathers

I can't even begin to tell you how obsessed I am with this feather vest. I wear it way too often, but I really enjoy creating new looks with it. For this particular outfit, I wanted a relaxed feel, baggy yet boho...and I had to wear my new favorite kicks, of course! I topped off the look with my Rebecca Minkoff bag Dennis got me for my birthday this year. He's too good to me :)


 Full details on where you can find these items below:

 

Vince Shirred Neckline Shirt

Buffalo David Bitton Nayia Vest

Buffalo David Bitton Cropped Pant

Steve Madden Shoes

Alex & Ani bracelets

Rebecca Minkoff MAC Daddy bag

Got some ideas on how I should wear the vest? Leave a comment and let me know!

Blown Away

There's a secret weapon used as an instant self-esteem booster. It's called a blowout, and if done properly, will change your attitude instantly.

Let's be honest, there's nothing worse than leaving the salon with a bum blowout. It's such a disappointment for a professional to style your hair...spending time and money for your hair to look great...and it falls flat as soon as you walk outdoors. I've searched far and wide for the best blowout. I stumbled upon it several years ago and have kept it my little secret. Blow drying hair should be considered an art, and Aaron at Aaron Emanuel Salon in NYC's Upper East Side, is the Michelangelo of blowouts. Think I'm overreacting? Just hear me out...

Fresh blowout from Aaron at his salon on the UES.

I have the worst hair. It's fine, curly, weird, and blah. We aren't the best of friends even though I do my best to take great care of my hair (still no-pooing with WEN hair care...I bought a multipack to try the different scents...will blog about it soon). My hair resists holding a curl from a curling iron or roller. It takes so much time and so much hairspray to get my hair to look decent. Anytime I get my hair styled I stress that my hair won't hold the shape, and so many times I hear the stylist say "oh, I'll make it last."  Five minutes later it's flat and weird again...and my wallet is empty.

So here's the history...after moving to NYC I unfortunately had to undergo emergency surgery and was left with tubes jutting out of the right side of my neck. I couldn't get water anywhere near the tubes, so showering and washing my hair was a bit tricky. Dennis' birthday was on a Saturday and I was running errands on the UES when I walked past a salon and decided to have someone shampoo and style my hair for his party that night. I had dirty, nappy hair stuck in a fedora when I walked in and met Aaron for the first time. I walked out with the best blowout of my life and 5 hours later, still had a style full of curl and bounce. I was amazed to say the least...because it NEVER happens. 

Dennis and I at his 26th birthday party...so long ago!

As you can see from the picture above (ignore my swollen chipmunk face and bandage), I had tons of curl in my hair...unreal! I told you, he's the Michelangelo of blowouts! I had all that body and curl from a round brush and blow dryer...no curling iron or rollers. Aaron doesn't rush, he takes him time to make sure each section is perfect...and it definitely shows when you leave his salon.

The artist at work and the final results

Guess I'm not so great at keeping a secret! If you live in or near NYC, make an appointment with Aaron:

Aaron Emanuel 

307 East 77th St
New York, NY 10075
Phone: 212.422.3000
Email: aaronemanuelsalon@gmail.com

Be sure and let me know how much you love your hair when you leave! And guys...Aaron has opened a barber shop as well! Check it out: 

 Aaron Emanuel Barber Shop

245 East 77th St

New York, NY 10075

(212) 288-8381

Friend and Foe

It's your hair's worst enemy and makes you miserable during the hot summer months, but it's your skin's best friend during the winter: humidity. Scientifically speaking, humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. Too much makes my hair look like a poodle's and too little makes my skin dry and flaky. During the fall and winter, we turn on the heat to keep it nice and toasty inside. This dry heat zaps any moisture in the air within your home and causes dry skin, chapped lips, and even nose bleeds.

During the winter in NYC it can get pretty chilly, and I feel like the wind is always blowing (doesn't seem to be the case during the summer when it's hot and there's no sign of a breeze at all). Combine the brutal weather outdoors with the dry air inside and it's the worst scenario for my skin. My skin becomes tight, itchy, flaky...it's just really gross. Sometimes, even my favorite serums, exfoliators, and moisturizers can't beat it. What's the solution? Putting more moisture in the air in my home to give my skin some relief.

Air Innovations Clean Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier. Source: qvc.com

I'm a huge fan of cool mist humidifiers for several reasons. I have one like the above next to my bed and I crank it all the way up when I lay down at night. I normally don't use it during the summer, but I can tell by my skin when it's time to start. It puts the necessary moisture back into the air inside and my skin looks refreshed, smooth, and dewy. Plus, Dennis even notices how much better he breaths at night and he doesn't wake up coughing and hacking when I have the humidifier running. Even more, it's so relaxing to have the mist delicately fall over your face while you're winding down from your day and you start drifting off to sleep. My humidifier is silent as well, so it doesn't disrupt my sleep. One full tank will last through the night if I have the the humidity control turned all the way up, and it has a ceramic filter that doesn't need replacing. Now, I have to get one for my office as well!

Who would have thought a humidifier is a skincare must-have?!

 My mom gave me this humidifier for Christmas several years ago, and it has been one of the best gifts ever. Thanks Mom :)

Lazy Pants

Everyone has one...that one pant you can't wait to put on after a long day, or wear during the weekend while you're sprawled across the couch catching up on your DVR. There isn't much that's better than slipping them on and getting cozy (except maybe a nice glass of Riesling after a long day...that's pretty good too).

Credit: jcrew.com

The best thing about my favorite lounge pant is that I can wear them out to run errands without looking like I just crawled out of bed...they're stylish and comfortable...and I'm OBSESSED! My ultimate lounge pant is the J.Crew Saturday pant.

This pant is amazing. It's basically a fancy sweat pant in a slim fit, so no bagginess or droopiness here. Think legging, but with fabric that is thicker than your basic knit legging. It'll keep you nice and toasty when there's a chill in the air and will stretch and move with you. I bought this pant last winter and fell in love, so then I bought two more in different colors. They're my favorite thing to wear during the chillier months. Dennis and I flew to Mississippi to spend Thanksgiving with my family, and I wore these almost the entire time I was home. When we go to my parents' home, it's all about unwinding, relaxing, and enjoying the peace and quiet. And spending quality time with family, of course! Thankfully these have an elastic waist too, which was perfect for the continuous feast we had all weekend.

If you plan on wearing this pant out, I'd be sure to wear a nicer top instead of a plain t-shirt. Otherwise you risk looking frumpy and not put-together. Also, I'd pair it with a flat (like the picture above) or moccasin...I wear my Sam Edelman Jones loafers with these a lot (and you're in luck because those bad boys are on SALE).

Bruno, Brooklyn, and I :) Love them!

Here's how I recently wore the Saturday pant. A lazy Sunday spent on the couch with the boys watching TV. It's my favorite thing to do on the weekends with them. Links to my tops and shoes are below.

Happy lounging!

James Perse Hoodie (mine is several months old, but his website has tons of great staples for your wardrobe)
Michael Stars Boyfriend Tank
Clark's Slippers (these aren't exactly the same, but it's the same brand)

I'm Blushing

I never knew the power of blush until a few years ago. After applying foundation, you've made a one dimensional canvas, and you need to add definition back to your face (I'll do a complete post on contouring and highlighting soon). Blush is great for bringing your face back to life and giving you a nice, rosy glow. There are a few different types of blush: powders, creams, and gels. Most gels come as tints or stains. These types have more staying power and are great for those with dry skin.

Credit: tartecosmetics.com

My favorite blush? Tarte Cheek Stain in Blushing Bride. Before this product, I only used powder blushes, but the color always faded so quickly. I'm not the biggest fan of powder anything, seeing that my skin is so dry...it just doesn't set well on my face. So when I stumbled upon this product one day a few years ago at Sephora, I was intimidated yet eager to try it. When I think of stain, I think of something that will provide long lasting color, but will not provide much room for error. I immediately became obsessed with this cheek stain. It provides great color, lasts for hours, and even gives me a dewy finish.

It can be tricky using this for the first time, but I was able to figure out the best method for application. Like with any other blush, where you put this product is extremely important. Blush is supposed to look natural, not overdone. It should look like your cheeks were just pinched, not like you're a friend of Bozo. The best trick and the one I've always used is to smile and apply your blush on the apples of your cheek and blend up and outward towards the top of your ear. There are other angles to blend if you're wanting to play around with your face shape (like angle towards your temples if you're trying to thin a round face, angle straight across to fill a thin face). 

I dot the cheek stain on the apples of my cheek and outward, like the picture below. I know, talk about Bozo, but not to worry, this isn't the final result. Once I've applied the product, I use my fingertips and pat the area and blend the color. And that's it...you'll have a beautiful dewy color for the rest of the day or night. 

Top left: 1) Jeez...this pic is worse than my driver's license photo...fresh application of foundation...see how one dimensional my face looks? Top right: Smile to find the apples of your cheeks! Bottom left: Don't be shy with the product, the key is blending! Bottom right: Blended results. See how I have a nice glow?

Other than long lasting color, what are some other perks of using this product? It's formulated without any parabens, alcohol, or oil. So it won't dry your skin out or cause breakouts. Lastly...it smells AMAZING.

You can purchase the Tarte Cheek Stain in several shades at tartecosmetics.com or sephora.com

No 'Poo - Update

So, it's been a few weeks into my no shampoo challenge - time for an update. Like I said in my first post, I didn't really think this would be much of a challenge. I honestly don't miss the lathering of normal shampoo and have quickly become accustomed to the feel of the WEN cleansing conditioner. I will admit that I'm not the biggest fan of the scent...I bought the sweet almond mint...but there is a variety of other scents to choose from. I'm very picky on smells anyway. 

In regards to overall performance, I feel like the WEN cleansing conditioner actually cleans my hair quite well. It never looks greasy, oily, or dirty, and I'm still able to go three days without washing. I think the biggest tricks are to make sure you are using enough of the product and rinsing the product thoroughly from your hair. If I've used a lot of styling products, I will actually apply the cleansing conditioner, rinse, and repeat just for good measure. If I'm going to blow dry my hair, I will also put one pump of  the cleansing conditioner from the mid shaft to the ends right before I get out of the shower as a leave in conditioner. 

Have I really noticed a dramatic difference in my hair since using the WEN cleansing conditioner? No, not really. I have noticed that my ends aren't as dry, and I don't have as many splits ends as I normally would this many weeks after my last trim. Maybe that's just the start? 

Oh, and the replenishing mist...it's definitely a nice 'pick me up' between washes, but again, not a fan of the sweet almond mint scent. 

If you're interested in trying WEN, QVC has quite the selection of products. WEN also has a 60 day money back guarantee.  

Rent The Runway

My 30th birthday was last week, and for such a milestone I wanted to look like a million bucks for my birthday dinner...but I didn't want to spend a million. I had a vision in my head: the perfect dress, bombshell hair, and fab makeup. Hair and makeup I could handle myself, but I was going to need a special dress. I wanted something beautiful and unique...it was my 30th birthday. Instead of spending several hundred dollars on a nice dress that would probably only be worn again on another rare occasion, I decided to use the services of Rent The Runway.

What is Rent The Runway? Pure genius is what it is. It's a website where you can rent the latest designer dresses and accessories to look fab for your special occasion, date, or night out with girlfriends. The best part? Renting these designer goods won't break the bank. I'm talking about dresses that would cost you $1,000 in the store...and you can rent them for $200 or less. There are several top designers to choose from, like Badgley Mischka, Viktor & Rolf, Herve Leger, and Versace Collection.

Badgley Mischka Orion Sequin Orbit Sheath dress

How does it work? It's ridiculously easy:

• Sign up for a membership (it's free).
• Browse by designer, price range, color, or style until you find the perfect dress. You can read user reviews to help select your size and RTR allows you to choose a 2nd size for free.
• Choose your delivery date (best if you select a day or two before your event in case there's any fit issues). You can rent for 4 days or 8 days and if you rent a 2nd dress of equal or lesser value, it's only $25!
• Returns are just as easy...the garments are delivered with a prepaid envelope, so all you have to do is put your rented outfits into the envelope and drop it in a mailbox. Rent The Runway takes care of the dry cleaning and will also cover any normal "wear and tear" issues. 

Your garments will arrive by messenger if you're located in NYC. Outside NYC, delivery is via FedEx or UPS. NYC orders can be delivered same day, but everywhere else is the following day. I received a sash of extra goodies, compliments of RTR, like fashion tape and accessory dots. I also received a sample of EOS shave cream (random, but the product whore in me loved it). 

My dress of choice: the Badgley Mischka Orion Sequin Orbit Sheath, which Carrie Underwood wore to the American Idol finale.

Source: blog.renttherunway.com

I felt so special during my dinner with the perfect trifecta: great hair, great makeup, and a great dress...thanks to Rent The Runway.

No 'Poo Challenge - WEN Haircare

I'm taking a challenge...a no-shampoo challenge. I've seen the demos on QVC (my guilty pleasure on Saturday mornings...don't judge me) and the late night infomercials when I can't sleep, and now I'm ready to give up shampoo for 30 days and see what WEN Haircare can really do.

I used to have super thick hair, but the older I get, the thinner my hair gets. I've also noticed it's incapable of growing past a certain length, which drives me crazy. Each time I visit the salon to get a trim, I feel like more than a trim takes place. My ends become so dry, dead, and split that anything that just grew gets chopped off. It's a vicious, endless cycle. I don't have the best relationship with my hair...but in all honestly, who does?

Back to the challenge...

Over the past year or so I've been introduced to products that claim to be without harsh detergents and parabens, specifically sodium lauryl sulfate. Sodium lauryl sulfate is a detergent that's in almost every single shampoo on the shelves (go ahead...read the back of your shampoo bottle...it's listed right there as the 2nd ingredient)...it's what creates the foaming effect. It's super cheap and super bad for your hair. I've tried several brands of "sulfate free" shampoos, and out of curiosity have wondered how these products can foam without the use of sodium lauryl sulfate. The answer: it's little friend sodium laureth sulfate. It's basically the same thing...how sneaky! After reading the ingredients lists on so many shampoos, I decided to completely stay away from anything that had sodium and sulfate together as an ingredient.

Source: sephora.com

Enter WEN Haircare...no harsh chemicals and no crazy and cheap detergents that will strip your hair and scalp of its natural oils. I picked up the WEN Healthy Hair kit at Sephora last weekend and decided to make the commitment of not shampooing for 30 days. It's only been seven days so far, but I don't think this is really going to be a difficult challenge for me. I love how the cleansing conditioner feels in my hair. It doesn't lather, but instantly makes my hair feel super soft and smooth. My hair feels clean and doesn't look greasy or oily. The only downside thus far is that I spend extra time in the shower making sure I'm distributing the production thoroughly through my hair, and that I'm rinsing well. Oh well, small price to pay in my opinion.

I'll periodically post updates on my no-poo journey and include some before and after pics as well.

If you want more info on WEN, check out the website, and you can purchase products there, at Sephora (in store or online), or on QVC.com.

Here's to no 'pooing!

Geek Chic

Credit: jcrew.com

Guess what? Geek is chic nowadays. And not just the thick-rimmed glasses...those have been around for a few years...I'm talking about the entire geek package (minus the pocket protector though). Plaid shirts, bow ties, rolled up jeans, oxfords, blazers, cardigans, suspenders...it's getting serious. And I'm OBSESSED!

You don't have to go completely "Revenge of the Nerds" style and put all of the above together in one outfit. But, you want to incorporate a classic nerdy piece and pair it with a basic jean or cord pant, preferably a skinny fit. A bootcut or flare doesn't really make this look work. Then you want to make the overall look more casual: roll up your sleeves, don't button your shirt all of the way, tuck in only a portion of the shirt. The more casual, the better!

Here's my take on geek chic:

I wore this last Saturday to brunch with my friend, Arianne. It was the coldest morning thus far this fall, so I was super cozy and warm with the plaid woven and v-neck sweater. I rolled my sleeves and even rolled my jeans a bit...it just looked better with my old-school oxfords.

And speaking of oxfords...my favorite part of this outfit? My Bass saddle oxfords. Love!

Looking forward to playing around with this trend. I'm on the hunt for a great button cardigan that I can mix and match for more nerdy outfits. I may actually go with this one from J. Crew...with a pair of colored twill pants (another huge fall trend), basic white tee, and my oxfords. See how easy it is to be geek chic?

jcrew.com

 

Here are the links to my outfit (or similar items):
J Crew Plaid Woven (mine is last season, but here's another great plaid)
Aqua Cashmere V-Neck Sweater
7 For All Mankind Gwenevere Skinny Jean
Bass Women's Saddle Oxfords
Movado Women's Museum Moderna watch
Helen Ficalora cross charm
Alex Woo charm bracelet actually, this was a gift from Arianne :)
Chanel Glasses (these aren't quite the same, but pretty close)
 
Are you going to try this trend? If so, email me pictures (sincerelyobsessed@gmail.com). Would love to see how you make geek look chic!

Hello, Beautiful Skin

I have a new product obsession and I'm so excited to share it with you! A few weeks ago Dennis and I had dinner with our friends Marissa and Jon. Boys will be boys and talk about boy things; girls will be girls...and we talked about skincare. 

Marissa and I share a skincare obsession, and she has a beautiful complexion. She's partnered with the creators of Proactiv on their new skincare brand: Rodan + Fields Dermatologists. She gave me some samples...and I've got to be honest...I've never been so excited to try new products.

If you haven't heard about Rodan + Fields Dermatologists you might be living under a rock...their skincare products have received excellent reviews and recommendations from publications like Allure, Self, and Women's Health (you can see their entire press clippings here). 

So what is this incredible product I'm newly obsessed with? It's the Enhancements Micro-Dermabrasion Paste. If you know me, or have kept up with my blog thus far, you know I have dry and sensitive skin. My skin can get flaky and dull at times, which is always a signal that I need to do a little exfoliation to buff away that top layer of dead skin cells ruining my complexion. Since I have sensitive skin I used a small amount of the paste, which is a sugar and salt scrub with vitamins C & E, and followed the instructions to use on dry skin and massage for 60 seconds. I then rinsed and was AMAZED at how soft and smooth my skin was! I've used exfoliants and scrubs once or twice a month for years...and I've NEVER gotten results like this! I'm hooked! 

Now that I don't have that extra layer of dead skin on my face, my skin is brighter and more radiant...and my other skincare products can be absorbed better....it's a win/win situation. I used the paste last night and didn't even bother to wear makeup today while running errands. It's seriously good!

Interested in Rodan + Fields Dermatologists products? They have several lines that are catered to your individual needs. Check out Marissa's website and browse their products, testimonials, and FAQ page to learn more!  You can also purchase Rodan + Fields products on her website. 

Jon, Marissa, Dennis, and I

By the way...this isn't the only R + F product I've become obsessed with...but you'll read about those later :)

Trendy Tourist

Just because you're out sight-seeing doesn't mean you have to dress like the typical tourist, or worse, a total slob. Most of us would put comfort as the top priority in our wardrobe selection for a touristy trip. Which is completely understandable...you want to be comfy while checking out a new city...but you can still dress fashionably without sacrificing comfort! 

This past weekend Dennis and I visited Washington DC (his third trip, my first), and obviously seeing all of the monuments was at the top of our to-do list. If you've been to DC, you understand that means quite a bit of walking. Being New Yorkers, we walk a lot on a daily basis, so we were physically prepared. The next step was being fashionably prepared.

I packed my favorite brand of skinny jeans - 7 For All Mankind's Gwenevere fit. They're incredibly soft and comfy - not tight and restricting like most skinny jeans can be. They're super stretchy too, so they really move with your body...I could sleep in these! For a top, I packed my white Banana Republic boho blouse. It has wide, flowy sleeves with crochet around the neckline (again, super comfy...not sloppy). I layered an Express basic tank underneath since the boho blouse is a bit big. I topped off my look with my new favorite casual shoes, Sam Edelman's Jones Loafers (these are cushioned more than your average flat, so they were perfect for all of the walking we did), my Ray Ban aviators, and my Tory Burch messenger bag (LOVE). 

As for jewelry, I kept it extremely minimal with my Helen Ficalora necklaces and charms.

I don't look incredibly fabulous - like I'm headed to meet the President or First Lady - but at least if I did run into them, I wouldn't be embarrassingly dressed like a tourist.

Here's links to my outfit, except the BR boho blouse, it was from spring 2011.

7 For All Mankind Gwenevere Super Skinny Jeans
Sam Edelman Jones Loafers
Tory Burch Messenger Bag
Ray Ban Aviator Sunglasses
Helen Ficalora Charms

Dirty Secret

I've got a dirty secret: I don't wash my hair every day...not even every other day. My hair is naturally curly/wavy, so it tends to be dry already, and with heat styling on top of that...it can be a recipe for disaster if I don't show my hair a lot of love. In the spring I started seeing a new hair stylist and she urged me to stretch my washes out for three days to help keep my hair healthy. Sounds ironic how washing your hair often can cause it to become even more dry, but it's true. Shampooing daily strips your hair of natural oils and with the harsh detergents used (you know you've of heard them...the sodium lauryl sulfates and parabens), they just strip and damage your hair instead of repairing it. If you're like me, you'd blow out your hair too, maybe finish with the flat iron to get it super straight or add some waves with a curling iron. Think about what we put our hair through! It needs a break, but I'm sure most of you will agree, not much is better than having freshly washed, squeaky-clean hair. So, after my new stylist urged me to stretch my washes out for three days, I headed straight to the drugstore to purchase the aerosol dry shampoo to help refresh my style between washings. But what about the ends of my hair? They're dry and need the TLC of a conditioner more often than every three days. What should I do? The whole purpose is to limit the amount of washes and heat styling, so I shouldn't just "wash" with conditioner. 

The solution? TIGI's Dirty Secret Dry Conditioner. 

TIGI Rockaholic Dirty Secret Dry Conditioner. Source: Amazon.com

Dry conditioner? That sounds like an oxymoron. Here's the deal: it comes as an aerosol spray and is sprayed from midstrand to the ends to hydrate and protect the rest of your hair dry shampoo isn't designed for. Genius! It makes my hair soft and shiny, not sticky and gummy. It helps moisturizer my ends until the next time I shampoo and condition.

So far this is the only brand I've tried, but more and more companies are creating these products. My inner product whore is getting very excited! 

Ridin' Duuurrrty

Do you use dry conditioner? Which one is your favorite?
Want to try Dirty Secret? Buy it here and let me know what you think!

Not Your Ordinary Denim

With today being the first day of fall, what better time to post about a fall fashion trend?

Printed denim made it's debut this past spring with fun, floral prints. If you missed out on this trend, you're in luck...it has transitioned into fall fashion. At Fashion's Night Out a few weeks ago, I noticed lots of denim brands have jumped on board the printed denim wagon, with at least one print among their fall assortment. From classic prints like leopard and snake skin to extravagant brocade, printed denim is definitely a trend to wear this season.

Printed Denim

7 for all mankind
cusp.com

J Brand j-brand jeans
stylebop.com

Paige Denim plaid skinny jeans
nordstrom.com

Current/Elliott low rise skinny jeans
net-a-porter.com

Citizens of Humanity printed jeans
net-a-porter.com



 
Not sure how to wear this trend? Depends on your personality...
You can easily pair a printed jean with a solid color top to really emphasize the jean. Or, if you like taking risks, let your top be another bold print. This trend is all about having fun with your fashion...so grab and pair and mix and match away!
 

The Flawless Face

I'm obsessed with the flawless face...that beautiful, even, glowing, natural-looking radiance.  One of my pet peeves is seeing women with an inch-thick layer of foundation and powder on their face. What are you trying to hide and who do you think you're fooling? Heavy makeup is not meant for every day wear. It's meant for evening when the lights are dim, and on stage to make your features stand out. It's not to run errands or wear to work.

Let me share with you how I've been able to create the "flawless face". From my first post, you learned that a good skincare regimen is the foundation for great skin as well as great makeup. You'll never achieve the flawless look if you're not taking care of your skin! There are two products I swear by and each is suited for different needs: Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer and Armani Luminous Silk Foundation. Both are extremely popular among celebrity makeup artists and receive rave reviews and editors' choice awards (both have consistently won InStyle's Beauty Awards). I'll break each one down.

Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer:

Credit: Sephora

I can't remember who introduced me to this product, but I should really thank them. I've been using this tinted moisturizer for at least 4 years now and it's one of my all-time favorite products. Laura Mercier is known for creating the "flawless face." What I love most about this product is how light it is. It goes on so smoothly and has a subtle shimmer that really makes your skin look alive, youthful, and bright. It also has SPF 20 to help protect against the damaging UV rays. Some of you may be thinking a tinted moisturizer just doesn't do the job, but you can build to the coverage you need (build gradually though and you may need to add a light dusting of powder so you don't look like a disco ball...or just use the regular tinted moisturizer that doesn't have the added shimmer). It really gives you a natural, glowy finish. I can't recommend this product enough!

Armani Luminous Silk Foundation:

Credit: Bloomingdales

I've just recently become obsessed with this product. I've read about it for quite some time, and I've never felt the need to shell out that kind of money for a foundation, but in the August 3rd edition of WWD, Armani's newest foundation formula, Maestro, was on the cover. So, me being the product whore, I decided to mozy over to Bloomingdales after work and see what Armani foundation is all about.
This product didn't win InStyle Magazine's Best Liquid Foundation award for nothing. It is clearly that and more! It has build-able coverage so if you are looking for something a bit sheer, not a problem! If you're looking for something with more coverage for uneven areas, piece of cake! The product is a silky liquid that melts into your skin for the easiest blending you'll ever find in a foundation. The best part? It lasts...all day...and all night. It doesn't slide off my face during the grotesquely hot, humid days in the city and never feels greasy or gooey on my skin.

The reason I'm discussing both of these products is because they can be used for separate occasions. I use the tinted moisturizer on weekends and days when I want a minimal makeup look. The foundation I use for work, going out, or when I feel I need the extra coverage. Both are fantastic products and will be permanently found in my makeup arsenal.


Interested in buying these products? Want to learn more? Click the links below...

Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer
Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
InStyle's Best Beauty Buys

Already a fan of these products? Leave me a comment below and tell me what you think!

Blazers & Baggy Pants

Theory blazer, James Perse tank, Buffalo David Bitton crop pant, Lauren Conrad shoes, Tory Burch messenger bag, Alex and Ani bracelets, Oliver Peoples sunglasses

You might think these two types of clothing don't belong together, but I believe they need each other. A tailored blazer can be too strict and professional. If not styled properly, you'll look like you're heading to the office and not a fun day out. Baggy pants, on the other hand, can look really sloppy. If the fit is wrong you'll look ridiculous, seriously. So a word of advice...be careful when buying these loose-fit bottoms...they may be trendy, but if the fit isn't right...WALK AWAY! Ok? Moving on...

 Now, if you put the two together they balance each other out. It's a look that's not sloppy because of the tailored blazer, and it's not too rigid due to the baggy pants. Be mindful of what top you wear underneath the blazer as well because if you need to remove the blazer, you still want to look chic. I chose the striped loose tank to still have a fun, relaxed look without being too oversized and frumpy.

Top off the look with a high platform heel. It's a must...period.

I also accessorized with some gold bracelets and my Tory Burch messenger bag (I'M OBSESSED WITH IT...will post about it soon). And the cherry on top is my Oliver People's sunglasses. Aviators would be a good look as well, but I chose the Oliver Peoples because they're just more feminine. I feel you should always have that feminine touch to your outfits.

Here's where you can find the above items:

Theory Gabe blazer
James Perse striped tank (not exactly the same, but close)
Buffalo David Bitton Misake crop pant
Lauren Conrad shoes (last season's, but here's some on ebay)
Tory Burch messenger bag
Alex and Ani bracelets
Oliver Peoples sunglasses (mine are several years old, but they have amazing new styles)

Back to the Basics

How can I write a blog about my skincare obsession and not start with the first and most crucial step in skincare 101? Your skin is a blank canvas...you've got to make sure it's in tip-top shape before slathering makeup all over it. Otherwise, you'll never achieve the "flawless face" that's so popular today. 

My skincare regimen has changed drastically over the years...especially after moving to NYC and trying to figure out how to care for my dry skin during the cold winters. Now don't get me wrong, moisturizing and treating are definitely important steps in skincare, but I've found that how I cleanse my skin makes such a difference in the overall appearance of my skin. I swear by this gadget and don't go on trips without it! 

It's the Clarisonic Mia 2 cleanser.

My mother introduced it to me (she's a product whore as well...she just doesn't admit to it). She saw a demonstration on TV and ordered one for my younger sister. I traveled home to Mississippi during Christmas and found this little monster in the bathroom. I was curious and eager to try it out. I have dry, sensitive skin, so I was concerned the bristles and the movement would irritate my delicate skin. Not the case! I continued using it while I was at my parents', then after returning to NYC, I noticed that my skin didn't look the same. I first blamed it on coming back to such cold, dry weather, but finally realized it was the Clarisonic Mia 2 that I was missing. Immediately I purchased one at Sephora and it's become my skincare BFF.

Not to toot my own horn, but I get lots of compliments on my skin. I very rarely have a breakout (and if I do it's because I haven't cleansed with my Mia 2), and I have never gotten a professional facial. Don't really need one now with this thing!

Clarisonic Mia 2 with Delicate brush head

Ok, so enough about why I'm OBSESSED with this product, let's get technical.
You can buy the most expensive moisturizers and anti-aging products, but if you're not thoroughly cleansing your skin, you're wasting these products (and let's be honest...some of these amazing creams and treatments aren't cheap)! You must deep cleanse and get rid of the dirt, bacteria, and dead skin so your serums, creams, and moisturizers can be absorbed and more beneficial. Makes total sense, right? 

There are two speeds and a 1 minute timer that pulses to alert you to move to a different section of your face (20 seconds on your forehead, 20 seconds on your nose and chin, and 10 seconds for each cheek). There are also several types of brush heads to choose from (normal, deep pore, sensitive, gentle, and acne). I prefer the gentle brushes because my skin is so sensitive. Brushes should be changed every 3 months and you can buy twin packs. Oh, and another perk? It comes with a handy travel case so you can take this bad boy anywhere!

Here's my skin without any makeup...love lazy Sundays with our boxer, Brooklyn =)

I swear by this mean little machine and it has completely changed my skin! I have even skin tone, my pores have minimized, and I'm getting the most from the rest of my skincare regimen. Check out the Clarisonic and Sephora websites.