USER'S GUIDE: Easy Spring Beauty Tips and Tricks





Beauty is always such a personal thing.  One girl's must have is another's take it or leave it.  There is one thing we can all likely agree upon though and that's the fact that no matter the routine, we want to keep it SIMPLE.  If that's you, then these quick picks from makeup guru Bobbi Brown are most definitely worth your time.  Don't worry...it's as easy as 1, 2, 3...

1: SKIN  Meet the new do-it all wonder product, meet BB Cream.  Beauty Balms are back and bringing with them everything the modern girl needs.  Skin soothing nutrients, hydrating properties and yes, SPF all in one swipe.  {Ahhh, the sound of that collective "yes, finally!"is echoing far and wide.}  Bobbi's BB Cream SPF 35 is the perfect no makeup makeup.  With shades to complement every tone, simply swipe and go...

On to this most cleverly crafted concealer.  As a mostly self-proclaimed queen of the concealer quest, I finally found the one that works!  Done as a duo combining a corrector {to fix dark circles} and a concealer {to then lighten and brighten} these two dream creams work together to give that perfect "8 hours of sleep" look in less than 60 seconds.  Not bad, I say!

2:  EYES  If there's one thing that is attractive on everyone, it's an enhanced lashline and lifted brow.  This eye-opening effect is so, so easy to achieve with three simple products...gel liner, light shimmery shadow and a black mascara.  Even if you are a fair-haired beauty, dark mascara can work wonderfully and, despite perceptions, gel liner is effortlessly simple.

  Get the job done easily by lining the top inner lid, gliding a wash of eyeshadow over the lid and coating your lashes with a few clump free swipes of mascara.  Wide-eyed and wonderful!

3: LIPS & CHEEKS:  Few things are better in the beauty world than products that do double duty.  Pot rouge is one of those very products.  Packaged in a small pot, this lip and cheek stain is pure genius.  And, you don't even need a brush, as your fingers are your best tools.  Dab some color onto the apples of your cheeks and on your lips.  Blend. Blot. Done.

Beauty made simple and as easy as 1...2...3.  

XO,

Kelly


USER'S GUIDE: Easy Spring Beauty Tips and Tricks








USER'S GUIDE: Easy Spring Beauty Tips and Tricks





Beauty is always such a personal thing.  One girl's must have is another's take it or leave it.  There is one thing we can all likely agree upon though and that's the fact that no matter the routine, we want to keep it SIMPLE.  If that's you, then these quick picks from makeup guru Bobbi Brown are most definitely worth your time.  Don't worry...it's as easy as 1, 2, 3...

1: SKIN  Meet the new do-it all wonder product, meet BB Cream.  Beauty Balms are back and bringing with them everything the modern girl needs.  Skin soothing nutrients, hydrating properties and yes, SPF all in one swipe.  {Ahhh, the sound of that collective "yes, finally!"is echoing far and wide.}  Bobbi's BB Cream SPF 35 is the perfect no makeup makeup.  With shades to complement every tone, simply swipe and go...

On to this most cleverly crafted concealer.  As a mostly self-proclaimed queen of the concealer quest, I finally found the one that works!  Done as a duo combining a corrector {to fix dark circles} and a concealer {to then lighten and brighten} these two dream creams work together to give that perfect "8 hours of sleep" look in less than 60 seconds.  Not bad, I say!

2:  EYES  If there's one thing that is attractive on everyone, it's an enhanced lashline and lifted brow.  This eye-opening effect is so, so easy to achieve with three simple products...gel liner, light shimmery shadow and a black mascara.  Even if you are a fair-haired beauty, dark mascara can work wonderfully and, despite perceptions, gel liner is effortlessly simple.

  Get the job done easily by lining the top inner lid, gliding a wash of eyeshadow over the lid and coating your lashes with a few clump free swipes of mascara.  Wide-eyed and wonderful!

3: LIPS & CHEEKS:  Few things are better in the beauty world than products that do double duty.  Pot rouge is one of those very products.  Packaged in a small pot, this lip and cheek stain is pure genius.  And, you don't even need a brush, as your fingers are your best tools.  Dab some color onto the apples of your cheeks and on your lips.  Blend. Blot. Done.

Beauty made simple and as easy as 1...2...3.  

XO,

Kelly








The Envelope Please





So now that all the envelopes have been opened and the awards given out, let's pay tribute to one of this year's winners for the best accessory to have at hand.....The Envelope Clutch.  Timeless, classic, elegant and suddenly available to tote day or night, this key piece has my vote for favorite go-to bag.  From sleek and chic to pretty in print, these bags catch your eye and don't let go.  



Congrats to all of last night's winners and to the dazzling designers who once again made us swoon.  Wishing you a beautiful Monday!


XO,

Kelly


REBECCA MINKOFF//MADELINE JELLY//DVF//TORY BURCH//J CREW//GAP//JIMMY CHOO




The Envelope Please







The Envelope Please





So now that all the envelopes have been opened and the awards given out, let's pay tribute to one of this year's winners for the best accessory to have at hand.....The Envelope Clutch.  Timeless, classic, elegant and suddenly available to tote day or night, this key piece has my vote for favorite go-to bag.  From sleek and chic to pretty in print, these bags catch your eye and don't let go.  



Congrats to all of last night's winners and to the dazzling designers who once again made us swoon.  Wishing you a beautiful Monday!


XO,

Kelly


REBECCA MINKOFF//MADELINE JELLY//DVF//TORY BURCH//J CREW//GAP//JIMMY CHOO












COLOR CRUSH: Peony & Plum





Spring is such an inspiring time of year and the fresh new colors it evokes are definitely no exception.  While it's true I have more than a few favorites, this season {and every}, one color combo I'm consistently coveting is that of peony and plum.  Much like a high-low outfit contrast, these two hues strike the perfect balance yet somehow leave you wanting more.  From bottoms, toppers and easy layering pieces to bangles, ballets and balm, these colors have spring covered.

What's your favorite pairing this season?  Have a wonderful weekend and thanks so much for reading!

XO,

Kelly

1|2|3|4|5|6|7|8|9|10|11






COLOR CRUSH: Peony & Plum









COLOR CRUSH: Peony & Plum





Spring is such an inspiring time of year and the fresh new colors it evokes are definitely no exception.  While it's true I have more than a few favorites, this season {and every}, one color combo I'm consistently coveting is that of peony and plum.  Much like a high-low outfit contrast, these two hues strike the perfect balance yet somehow leave you wanting more.  From bottoms, toppers and easy layering pieces to bangles, ballets and balm, these colors have spring covered.

What's your favorite pairing this season?  Have a wonderful weekend and thanks so much for reading!

XO,

Kelly

1|2|3|4|5|6|7|8|9|10|11









     

     Have you seen Coach lately?  If you have then you know why I'm asking.  If not, then you're going to want to know why.   Either way, a trip to your nearest Coach store is highly recommended. 

                                                                    Let's take a peek...




Have You Seen Coach Lately?




My fondest memories of this brand are those that include soft buttery leather, turn lock closures, lengthy straps, classic shapes and British tan.  Having now gone past their recent signature "double c" insignia, Coach has once again returned to their roots and to the much-loved trademarks that once made this brand iconic.  With shapes, styles and, most of all, pops of luscious color to suit every style, the American leather goods company is once again sharing the stage with today's top designers.  A recent trip to see these classic beauties in person proved this all to be true and then some.  In fact, with all the stunning choices available, I felt somewhat like a kid in a candy store with eyes aglow at all the options {colors included!}  If you're feeling similar and can't quite choose which of these beauties is your absolute favorite, here are some additional details that may help you decide...

Happy shopping and, as always, thanks for reading!


XO,

Kelly



COACH SAFFIANO COLORBLOCK ACCORDION ZIP//COACH LEGACY PERFORATED LEATHER DOUBLE ACCORDION ZIP//COACH POPPY DOUBLE PRINT FLORAL ZIP//LEGACY LEATHER COURTENAY HOBO//COACH JEWELED FLOWERED MIX KEYRING//COACH TATTERSALL OBLONG//WALLETS & WRISTLETS//COACH LEGACY PERFORATED MINI TANNER BAG//COACH LEGACY LEATHER WILLIS//COACH LEATHER LEGACY ROMY TOP HANDLE//COACH MULTI LOZENGE HANDTAGS CHARM {currently sold-out}//COACH LEGACY COLORBLOCK LEATHER SWINGPACK//TATTERSALL PHONECASE//COACH LEGACY PERFORATED LEATHER LARGE WRISTLET//





Have You Seen Coach Lately?




     

     Have you seen Coach lately?  If you have then you know why I'm asking.  If not, then you're going to want to know why.   Either way, a trip to your nearest Coach store is highly recommended. 

                                                                    Let's take a peek...




Have You Seen Coach Lately?




My fondest memories of this brand are those that include soft buttery leather, turn lock closures, lengthy straps, classic shapes and British tan.  Having now gone past their recent signature "double c" insignia, Coach has once again returned to their roots and to the much-loved trademarks that once made this brand iconic.  With shapes, styles and, most of all, pops of luscious color to suit every style, the American leather goods company is once again sharing the stage with today's top designers.  A recent trip to see these classic beauties in person proved this all to be true and then some.  In fact, with all the stunning choices available, I felt somewhat like a kid in a candy store with eyes aglow at all the options {colors included!}  If you're feeling similar and can't quite choose which of these beauties is your absolute favorite, here are some additional details that may help you decide...

Happy shopping and, as always, thanks for reading!


XO,

Kelly



COACH SAFFIANO COLORBLOCK ACCORDION ZIP//COACH LEGACY PERFORATED LEATHER DOUBLE ACCORDION ZIP//COACH POPPY DOUBLE PRINT FLORAL ZIP//LEGACY LEATHER COURTENAY HOBO//COACH JEWELED FLOWERED MIX KEYRING//COACH TATTERSALL OBLONG//WALLETS & WRISTLETS//COACH LEGACY PERFORATED MINI TANNER BAG//COACH LEGACY LEATHER WILLIS//COACH LEATHER LEGACY ROMY TOP HANDLE//COACH MULTI LOZENGE HANDTAGS CHARM {currently sold-out}//COACH LEGACY COLORBLOCK LEATHER SWINGPACK//TATTERSALL PHONECASE//COACH LEGACY PERFORATED LEATHER LARGE WRISTLET//











Amid some serious shopping this weekend, it is apparent that spring has sprung...at least as far as stores are concerned.  That's more than fine by me as all the scrumptious shades of coral, cream and lemon yellow have me craving those delightful days ahead.  Here's a sampling of some of my favorite springtime picks so far.  Let's take a peek...





Craves & Faves



Yes, so stripes, ballet flats, floral motifs, peplum and statement bags all make the cut so far.  With the amazing options available, however, I have a feeling these pieces will be joined by some other sweet additions.  What new must-haves are going to be on your spring shopping list?

Have a happy holiday Monday and enjoy these great sales today at J. Crew {use code STYLE40 and receive 40% off all sale} and Tory Burch {use code WEEKEND and receive 25% off $400 or more + free standard shipping}.

XO,

Kelly


//J CREW Liberty Collar Merino Sweater//TORY BURCH Bracelet//C. WONDER Ballet Flats//J. CREW Handbag// GAP Belt// DORTHY PERKINS Peplum Top//C. WONDER Make-up Bag//J. CREW Rose Necklace {similar}//


Craves & Faves







Amid some serious shopping this weekend, it is apparent that spring has sprung...at least as far as stores are concerned.  That's more than fine by me as all the scrumptious shades of coral, cream and lemon yellow have me craving those delightful days ahead.  Here's a sampling of some of my favorite springtime picks so far.  Let's take a peek...





Craves & Faves



Yes, so stripes, ballet flats, floral motifs, peplum and statement bags all make the cut so far.  With the amazing options available, however, I have a feeling these pieces will be joined by some other sweet additions.  What new must-haves are going to be on your spring shopping list?

Have a happy holiday Monday and enjoy these great sales today at J. Crew {use code STYLE40 and receive 40% off all sale} and Tory Burch {use code WEEKEND and receive 25% off $400 or more + free standard shipping}.

XO,

Kelly


//J CREW Liberty Collar Merino Sweater//TORY BURCH Bracelet//C. WONDER Ballet Flats//J. CREW Handbag// GAP Belt// DORTHY PERKINS Peplum Top//C. WONDER Make-up Bag//J. CREW Rose Necklace {similar}//








GET THE LOOK: Sarah Vickers of Classy Girls Wear Pearls




Happy Friday, lovelies!  It's been a whirlwind week and I'm feeling more than ready to celebrate the weekend!  What better way is there to do that than with a weekend-inspired look from Sarah Vickers of Classy Girls Wear Pearls?  Always preppy-perfect and forever sporting the ideal mix of classic style, New England charm and relaxed elegance, Sarah is the quintessential American beauty.  Here she is dressed down to a tee, effortlessly combining camel, cobalt and animal print along with pops of contrasting black and blossom and the finishing touch of delicate jewelry.

Like what you see?  It can easily be made your own with these similar and/or matching pieces:


TOP: J. Crew Sosie Top
DENIM:  Citizens of Humanity
COAT: J. Crew
BAG:  J. Crew
HEELS:  Manolo Blahnik
BELT:  J. Crew
BRACELET: Liz James


Thank you, Sarah, for inspiring this week's "Get the Look".  Wishing you all a wonderful weekend and thanks so much for reading!

XO,

Kelly






GET THE LOOK: Sarah Vickers of Classy Girls Wear Pearls







GET THE LOOK: Sarah Vickers of Classy Girls Wear Pearls




Happy Friday, lovelies!  It's been a whirlwind week and I'm feeling more than ready to celebrate the weekend!  What better way is there to do that than with a weekend-inspired look from Sarah Vickers of Classy Girls Wear Pearls?  Always preppy-perfect and forever sporting the ideal mix of classic style, New England charm and relaxed elegance, Sarah is the quintessential American beauty.  Here she is dressed down to a tee, effortlessly combining camel, cobalt and animal print along with pops of contrasting black and blossom and the finishing touch of delicate jewelry.

Like what you see?  It can easily be made your own with these similar and/or matching pieces:


TOP: J. Crew Sosie Top
DENIM:  Citizens of Humanity
COAT: J. Crew
BAG:  J. Crew
HEELS:  Manolo Blahnik
BELT:  J. Crew
BRACELET: Liz James


Thank you, Sarah, for inspiring this week's "Get the Look".  Wishing you all a wonderful weekend and thanks so much for reading!

XO,

Kelly










Sealed with a KISS




Remember the days when you colored, crafted and carefully closed that special Valentine with those sweet little letters {S.W.A.K.}?  Well, while Valentine's Day has grown up a little bit since then, you still want your lips to be kissably soft this Valentine's Day.  These quick steps will get the job done 1...2...3.

EXFOLIATE:  Just like you always want to give your skin a thorough sloughing, you need to do the same for your lips.  Scrubs are a wonderful way to do this with many lovely flavors and fragrances available to choose from.  Can't find a sweet scrub handy?  Not a problem.  You can easily whip up your own homemade version by mixing a small amount of sugar and olive oil that you can work into the lips for the same effect.  Removing those dead skin cells will banish pesky rough spots and keep flakes at bay, leaving your lips smooth and plump and ready for hydration.

HYDRATE:  Once your lips have been smoothed and plumped, they are ready for the moisture they crave to keep them healthy and soft.  Look for balm and butters that contain natural oils and extracts and peptides aimed at enhancing lip volume and lip definition.

PROTECT:  Now that your lips are perfectly pouty, you'll want to treat them to the same protection you give your skin daily.  Be sure to look for products that contain an SPF (even in the winter months) that will shield lips from the sun's harmful rays.


Easy as 1...2...3.  Ready, set, smile and enjoy a lovely Wednesday!

XO,

Kelly


LIPPY//YSL Lipstick//Smashbox Lip Gloss//Clinique Chubby Sticks//Clinique Gloss//Bobbi Brown//Rosebud Salve//Vanilla Bean Lip Scrub//Kiss Me by philosophy//Peter Thomas Roth Unwrinkle//Fresh Sugar Lip Balm



Sealed with a Kiss





Sealed with a KISS




Remember the days when you colored, crafted and carefully closed that special Valentine with those sweet little letters {S.W.A.K.}?  Well, while Valentine's Day has grown up a little bit since then, you still want your lips to be kissably soft this Valentine's Day.  These quick steps will get the job done 1...2...3.

EXFOLIATE:  Just like you always want to give your skin a thorough sloughing, you need to do the same for your lips.  Scrubs are a wonderful way to do this with many lovely flavors and fragrances available to choose from.  Can't find a sweet scrub handy?  Not a problem.  You can easily whip up your own homemade version by mixing a small amount of sugar and olive oil that you can work into the lips for the same effect.  Removing those dead skin cells will banish pesky rough spots and keep flakes at bay, leaving your lips smooth and plump and ready for hydration.

HYDRATE:  Once your lips have been smoothed and plumped, they are ready for the moisture they crave to keep them healthy and soft.  Look for balm and butters that contain natural oils and extracts and peptides aimed at enhancing lip volume and lip definition.

PROTECT:  Now that your lips are perfectly pouty, you'll want to treat them to the same protection you give your skin daily.  Be sure to look for products that contain an SPF (even in the winter months) that will shield lips from the sun's harmful rays.


Easy as 1...2...3.  Ready, set, smile and enjoy a lovely Wednesday!

XO,

Kelly


LIPPY//YSL Lipstick//Smashbox Lip Gloss//Clinique Chubby Sticks//Clinique Gloss//Bobbi Brown//Rosebud Salve//Vanilla Bean Lip Scrub//Kiss Me by philosophy//Peter Thomas Roth Unwrinkle//Fresh Sugar Lip Balm








PANTONE Emerald




Pantone's color experts have given the green light to this year's gorgeous lush hue, emerald.  Now, get ready to start seeing this color craze everywhere your fashion travels take you.  Seeing so much of one shade can easily overwhelm even the savviest of shoppers, however.  So, sit back and take a look at a few simple ways to work the color into your closet this year.


PATTERNS AND PRINTS:  Whether you choose to go with a soft silk blouse, perfect pair of capris or a sexy pencil skirt, these pieces can easily incorporate both bold color and a pop of print that brings an otherwise neutral outfit into the trend spotlight without ever being too much.  J. Crew offers a spring friendly motif adorning their green silk butterfly blouse.  Another way to go?  Pair a jade solid with a textured, printed bottom.  Try this boyfriend v-neck on for inspiration.

PAIRED WITH ANIMAL PRINTS:  Your emerald city favorites take on a life of their own when you couple them with peeks of animal print.  Try complementing that gorgeous green sweater or chunky emerald bracelet with a sleek calf hair leopard print ballet flat or skinny belt.  

ADD EASY ACCENTS:  Not ready to commit to that much color?  Make the easy choice with chic accents with a pop of color on your feet, nails or in your bag.  Fun flats are a fabulous addition to any outfit.  Similarly, let your hands do the talking with a teal toned polish like this one from Butter London.  Or, accessorize your handbag with a playful coin case from your favorite designer.

PASTELS:  Sometimes the moment calls for a softer shade of beautiful.  Something that is a little less bold but every bit as pretty.  When that's the case, mint, seafoam and lime can easily fit the moment and your mood.  A sheer soft dress is the perfect choice for this lighter palette as are spring scarves in sweet sherbet shades. 

So, there are four fresh ways to let your emeralds shine.  What will be your favorite ways to style the trend?  I can't wait to hear!  Have a beautiful Monday and thanks for reading!

XO,

Kelly







PANTONE Emerald






PANTONE Emerald




Pantone's color experts have given the green light to this year's gorgeous lush hue, emerald.  Now, get ready to start seeing this color craze everywhere your fashion travels take you.  Seeing so much of one shade can easily overwhelm even the savviest of shoppers, however.  So, sit back and take a look at a few simple ways to work the color into your closet this year.


PATTERNS AND PRINTS:  Whether you choose to go with a soft silk blouse, perfect pair of capris or a sexy pencil skirt, these pieces can easily incorporate both bold color and a pop of print that brings an otherwise neutral outfit into the trend spotlight without ever being too much.  J. Crew offers a spring friendly motif adorning their green silk butterfly blouse.  Another way to go?  Pair a jade solid with a textured, printed bottom.  Try this boyfriend v-neck on for inspiration.

PAIRED WITH ANIMAL PRINTS:  Your emerald city favorites take on a life of their own when you couple them with peeks of animal print.  Try complementing that gorgeous green sweater or chunky emerald bracelet with a sleek calf hair leopard print ballet flat or skinny belt.  

ADD EASY ACCENTS:  Not ready to commit to that much color?  Make the easy choice with chic accents with a pop of color on your feet, nails or in your bag.  Fun flats are a fabulous addition to any outfit.  Similarly, let your hands do the talking with a teal toned polish like this one from Butter London.  Or, accessorize your handbag with a playful coin case from your favorite designer.

PASTELS:  Sometimes the moment calls for a softer shade of beautiful.  Something that is a little less bold but every bit as pretty.  When that's the case, mint, seafoam and lime can easily fit the moment and your mood.  A sheer soft dress is the perfect choice for this lighter palette as are spring scarves in sweet sherbet shades. 

So, there are four fresh ways to let your emeralds shine.  What will be your favorite ways to style the trend?  I can't wait to hear!  Have a beautiful Monday and thanks for reading!

XO,

Kelly













Valentine's Wish List



Valentine's Day is around the corner girls!  What better time than now to drop a few hints about what you might like?  Here are a few of the favorites I've been craving lately.  Which sweet picks will you be dropping hints on?

Here's to wishes that come true.  Have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend!

XO,

Kelly

Valentine's Wish List







Valentine's Wish List



Valentine's Day is around the corner girls!  What better time than now to drop a few hints about what you might like?  Here are a few of the favorites I've been craving lately.  Which sweet picks will you be dropping hints on?

Here's to wishes that come true.  Have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend!

XO,

Kelly

What Your Skin Needs Now




Ever walk into a beauty megastore {or even the local drugstore for that matter} and feel completely overwhelmed by the seemingly endless array of skincare choices available?  Certainly, you are not alone.  Lotions, oils, creams, serums....what do you really need and where does one even begin?

You can begin right here with these four simple steps that your skin needs now.  Make these easy to follow guidelines part of your daily routine and get ready to glow!


1. NOURISHING CLEANSER:  The first step in any skincare routine is careful cleansing.  Today's store shelves are stocked with choices for what seems like every skin type out there, oily, aged, breakout prone and highly sensitive, just to name a few.  While skin types can vary, there is one thing that is true for all of them, and that is the need to protect the natural skin barrier while replenishing essential lipids necessary for proper skin functioning.  So many of the problems our skin arrives at are often caused by unintentional striping and consequential imbalances resulting in irritation, breakouts and surface dryness.  The daily use of a nourishing cleanser, rich in essential oils, can bring balance, harmony and calmness to overworked skin.  A great all natural choice that I cannot live without is Josie Maran's Argan Cleansing Oil.  It leaves skin soft, supple and begging to be touched.


2.  REPARATIVE SERUM:  Over time, the elements of nature and the natural aging process can cause our skin to lose its firmness and its lustre.  Cell turnover rates decrease and in their wake lie wrinkles and sagging, neither of which we ever want to entertain.  With today's amazing skincare innovations, we may never have to.  Serums are your skin's salvation and, in a sense, a fountain of youth.  After you wash, you want to pump in all the vitamins and healthy skin helpers your skin craves.    Look for serums containing peptides, retinol, anti-oxidants {think vitamin C} and gentle acids designed to repair, rejuvenate and protect your skin from further damage from environmental stressors like sun, wind and pollution.  Some good choices to try include those by Dr. Dennis Gross, Perricone MD and Ole Henriksen.


3.  HYDRATING CREAM:  Once you have fed your skin what it needs, be sure to seal in all that goodness by using a hydrating cream designed to increase moisture retention and keep your skin supple.  You can easily find a wonderful variety of natural choices as well as those that have science on their side.  Philosophy, Algenist and Fresh all offer luxurious choices that your skin will thank you for in the future.


4.  PROTECTIVE SUNSCREEN:  Don't let your excellent skincare efforts go to waste by stepping out without sunscreen.  No longer a summertime staple, sunscreen is a must wear item 365 days a year.  If you can see what's in front of you it is because there is light and that light contains damaging rays that are endlessly aging your skin.  Protect your complexion with an SPF that shields against both UVA and UVB rays all year long.  Aim for one that has an SPF of at least 30 or higher.  Some of my favorites are these makeup friendly finds that get the job done without a hint of greasiness and no tell tale coconut scent {unless you want it of course!}  Try Clinique, Strivectin and Shiseido for rave-worthy results.


By just following through with these easy to manage steps you can improve, protect and preserve your skin for many beautiful years to come.  Now that's definitely worth your time.



Wishing you a beautiful Wednesday and, as always, thanks for reading!!


XO,


Kelly




What Your Skin Needs Now

What Your Skin Needs Now




Ever walk into a beauty megastore {or even the local drugstore for that matter} and feel completely overwhelmed by the seemingly endless array of skincare choices available?  Certainly, you are not alone.  Lotions, oils, creams, serums....what do you really need and where does one even begin?

You can begin right here with these four simple steps that your skin needs now.  Make these easy to follow guidelines part of your daily routine and get ready to glow!


1. NOURISHING CLEANSER:  The first step in any skincare routine is careful cleansing.  Today's store shelves are stocked with choices for what seems like every skin type out there, oily, aged, breakout prone and highly sensitive, just to name a few.  While skin types can vary, there is one thing that is true for all of them, and that is the need to protect the natural skin barrier while replenishing essential lipids necessary for proper skin functioning.  So many of the problems our skin arrives at are often caused by unintentional striping and consequential imbalances resulting in irritation, breakouts and surface dryness.  The daily use of a nourishing cleanser, rich in essential oils, can bring balance, harmony and calmness to overworked skin.  A great all natural choice that I cannot live without is Josie Maran's Argan Cleansing Oil.  It leaves skin soft, supple and begging to be touched.


2.  REPARATIVE SERUM:  Over time, the elements of nature and the natural aging process can cause our skin to lose its firmness and its lustre.  Cell turnover rates decrease and in their wake lie wrinkles and sagging, neither of which we ever want to entertain.  With today's amazing skincare innovations, we may never have to.  Serums are your skin's salvation and, in a sense, a fountain of youth.  After you wash, you want to pump in all the vitamins and healthy skin helpers your skin craves.    Look for serums containing peptides, retinol, anti-oxidants {think vitamin C} and gentle acids designed to repair, rejuvenate and protect your skin from further damage from environmental stressors like sun, wind and pollution.  Some good choices to try include those by Dr. Dennis Gross, Perricone MD and Ole Henriksen.


3.  HYDRATING CREAM:  Once you have fed your skin what it needs, be sure to seal in all that goodness by using a hydrating cream designed to increase moisture retention and keep your skin supple.  You can easily find a wonderful variety of natural choices as well as those that have science on their side.  Philosophy, Algenist and Fresh all offer luxurious choices that your skin will thank you for in the future.


4.  PROTECTIVE SUNSCREEN:  Don't let your excellent skincare efforts go to waste by stepping out without sunscreen.  No longer a summertime staple, sunscreen is a must wear item 365 days a year.  If you can see what's in front of you it is because there is light and that light contains damaging rays that are endlessly aging your skin.  Protect your complexion with an SPF that shields against both UVA and UVB rays all year long.  Aim for one that has an SPF of at least 30 or higher.  Some of my favorites are these makeup friendly finds that get the job done without a hint of greasiness and no tell tale coconut scent {unless you want it of course!}  Try Clinique, Strivectin and Shiseido for rave-worthy results.


By just following through with these easy to manage steps you can improve, protect and preserve your skin for many beautiful years to come.  Now that's definitely worth your time.



Wishing you a beautiful Wednesday and, as always, thanks for reading!!


XO,


Kelly








With the forecast for an early spring, it is perfectly fitting that the petite and pretty Liberty print is suddenly in full bloom. From blouses to bikinis and slips-ons to sleepwear, this lovely little pattern is showing up on fabrics everywhere.   Born in the UK, London's Liberty Art Fabrics have made their way stateside and quickly become an American favorite.  Now they've joined in a perfect partnership with J. Crew to create these darling designs seen here. 
 Let's take a peek...








Liberty Print




I'd say these pretty petals are the perfect pick-me up on a cold winter's Monday.  What's your favorite floral so far?

Thanks for reading and have a beautiful Monday!

XO,

Kelly

Sweet Land of Liberty





With the forecast for an early spring, it is perfectly fitting that the petite and pretty Liberty print is suddenly in full bloom. From blouses to bikinis and slips-ons to sleepwear, this lovely little pattern is showing up on fabrics everywhere.   Born in the UK, London's Liberty Art Fabrics have made their way stateside and quickly become an American favorite.  Now they've joined in a perfect partnership with J. Crew to create these darling designs seen here. 
 Let's take a peek...








Liberty Print




I'd say these pretty petals are the perfect pick-me up on a cold winter's Monday.  What's your favorite floral so far?

Thanks for reading and have a beautiful Monday!

XO,

Kelly





The arrival of the latest J. Crew STYLE GUIDE has me feeling absolutely giddy about the eventual arrival of spring and all of the breathtakingly beautiful colors, patterns, fabrics and textures that await.  Today I put together some of my favorite new pieces being featured for the upcoming season.  

Let's take a peek...





J. Crew Signs of Spring





So many lovely looks, so hard to choose just one {or just a few!}  Which ones are your favorites and how would you style them?  I'd love to know!  

Wishing you a colorful weekend filled with your favorite things!


XO,


Kelly


//Rainbow Cashmere Shop // J. Crew liberty schoolboy blazer // J.Crew tonal striped cardi // J. Crew color block v-neck // J.Crew liberty collar merino sweater // J. Crew two-tone stripe sweater // J. Crew window pane window pane knit cardigan // J.Crew ballerina flat // J. Crew loafer//

J. Crew Signs of Spring





The arrival of the latest J. Crew STYLE GUIDE has me feeling absolutely giddy about the eventual arrival of spring and all of the breathtakingly beautiful colors, patterns, fabrics and textures that await.  Today I put together some of my favorite new pieces being featured for the upcoming season.  

Let's take a peek...





J. Crew Signs of Spring





So many lovely looks, so hard to choose just one {or just a few!}  Which ones are your favorites and how would you style them?  I'd love to know!  

Wishing you a colorful weekend filled with your favorite things!


XO,


Kelly


//Rainbow Cashmere Shop // J. Crew liberty schoolboy blazer // J.Crew tonal striped cardi // J. Crew color block v-neck // J.Crew liberty collar merino sweater // J. Crew two-tone stripe sweater // J. Crew window pane window pane knit cardigan // J.Crew ballerina flat // J. Crew loafer//

My Wishlist

@chicsaturday