January Beauty Favorites

11 January Must-Have Beauty Favorites

1. Kat Burki Vitamin C Nourishing Cleansing Balm, $60

2. Kat Burki PH & Enzyme Essence, $100

3. Kat Burki Form Control Marine Collagen Gel, $150

4. Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Moisturizer, $99

5. Urban Decay Cosmetics Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette, $25

6. Dome Beauty Eye Brush Set, $65

7. Pixi by Petra MatteLast Liquid Lip in 'Really Rose', $14

8. KORRES Greek Yoghurt Under Eye Priming Moisturiser, $36

9. Madam Glam New York Gelementary in 'Teacher's Pet', $12

10. Herbal Dynamics Beauty Rose Water Calming Face Toner, $20

11. Neon & Co. Body Oil, $32

Phew! To be quite honest, I've been so busy I didn't think this beauty post would go up today but I burned the midnight oil because I was too excited to share my January beauty favorites with you guys! There's a ton of skincare going on here today because let's 'face' it (ha ha ha sometimes I think I'm 'p'unny) the harsh winter months wreak havoc on to our skin. I've got all sorts of goodies to keep your skin hydrated and glowing, on top of a really cool eyeshadow palette that's a bit of a Troublemaker, an amazing new nail polish where I also found my perfect nude shade color, and a body oil that's the best I've ever had. Continue reading to learn more about these amazing beauty products! Happy (Almost) February! ----> [Insert: One crazy, hectic month for moi.]

1. KAT BURKI VITAMIN C NOURISHING CLEANSING BALM

Repairs, renews and illuminates skin using a reparative combination of 15% STAY C (Vitamin C), Camu Camu berry, Gotu Kola and seven reparative Cold Processed Oils: Coconut, Sunflower, Jojoba, Rose Hip Seed, Olive, Avocado and Cranberry Seed. Helps repair the signs of aging, increases skin plumpness, prevents dryness, brightens skin, retains moisture, cleanses skin and removes stubborn makeup/mascara. Some of you may have seen a mini-episode of me using this cleansing balm on Insta-Stories and it took makeup off when I thought I had a thoroughly clean face! This is after washing with a different cleanser. I'm thinking of sharing it on my Highlights on Instagram. What do you guys think? Yay or nay? 

2. KAT BURKI PH & ENZYME ESSENCE

Rarely addressed, our skin is best (and looks best) when its ph (potential hydrogen) level is mid-level to acidic – alkaline ratio, 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline). The skin’s barrier (acid mantle) is responsible for keeping lipids and moisture locked in as well as protecting against pollutants, toxins, and bacteria. Optimizing the skin’s ph level is an important step towards overall skin health and protection from environmental damage and the aging process.
Kat Burki created a unique complex of ph balancing ingredients. Fruit enzymes help to resurface the acid mantle. Once a strong barrier function is achieved, secondary conditions, such as hyperpigmentation and weakened elasticity can be addressed. Healthy acid mantle maintains moisture and keeps skin soft and smooth. Antioxidant dense turmeric strengthens while vitamin C from orange hydrosols, pumpkin seed oil, and papaya support collagen to maintain skin structure and firmness. I use it as a toner after cleansing my face am & pm. I'm not a huge fan of the smell, but after having used it consistently, you get accustomed to it after a while. I find it to be one of the best balancers when it came to skin tone, overall hydration, and bounce. I wish they made one in travel-size!
 

3. KAT BURKI FORM CONTROL™ MARINE COLLAGEN GEL

Clinically proven to transform your skin, this marine collagen gel increases skin’s firmness and elasticity. Pure algae Keratin provides essential nutrients while Botanical Hyaluronic Acid fused with Silk Amino Acid Proteins visibly fills in fine lines and wrinkles and increases hydration. 14 known Collagen Boosters not only encourage skin to uptake the Marine Collagen for filling and plumping, but are also proven generators to increase skin’s own collagen production. Further boosted by KB5™ Complex and Reishi Mushroom, Plant Stem Cells provide anti-inflammatory benefits. This gel does wonders and even though is a bit pricey, is worth every penny. My skin hasn't looked this good in I don't even know how long! :)

4. LANCÔME RENERGIE LIFE MULTI-ACTION ULTRA FIRMING & DARK SPOT CORRECTING MOISTURIZER SPF 30

Meet your new moisturizer that breaks all of the rules: Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra. Powered by linseed extract, this moisturizer works to lift, firm, improve wrinkles, and visibly reduce dark spots. (Hi, sun damage & acne scars.) The quick-absorbing texture is oil-free and will not clog pores. SPF 30 provides additional protection against future environmental skin damage. The texture blends seamlessly into skin, leaving behind no white residue regardless of skin tone, revealing radiant, comfortable, hydrated skin all day long with or without makeup. The fragrance is lovely as well.

5. URBAN DECAY COSMETICS TROUBLEMAKER EYESHADOW PALETTE

Urban Decay is always stirring up trouble, and Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette is no exception. Inside, you'll find 10 sultry shades perfect for scandalous nights. Whether you want to go bronzy, jewel-toned or smoky, it's all here. The perfect finishing touch? A travel-size Troublemaker Mascara, plus some scandalous thoughts, courtesy of designer (and fellow troublemaker) Jac Vanek.

Small enough to take anywhere, Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette was made for sin. These shades are perfect for when you're up to no good - from a warm red matte to a metallic smoky gray with a shifty red-brown undertone. This palette even includes one split-pan shadow, Clash, that has a shimmery white on one half and UD's legendary blackest black matte (Blackout) on the other. Every shade has a velvety texture, rich color, serious staying power, and blendability. 

6. DOME BEAUTY EYE BRUSH SET

It all started with a brush. Without the right brush, application will falter and frustrate. Designed to respond to varying contours of the face, Dome Beauty brushes provide the control you need for a fluid, flawless application. The Eye Brush Set includes: Eye Blender, Eye Shadow and Eye Liner brushes and is protected by their exclusive BEAUTY BRUSH ARMOR. (Genius for anyone who has a pet with haiiiiiirrrrrrr as this cover isn't called an armor for anything.)

7. PIXI BY PETRA MATTELAST LIQUID LIPSTICK IN 'REALLY ROSE'

Extreme longwear, highly pigmented yet comfortable, this rosehip oil infused liquid lipstick quickly sets to a matte veil. In a few strokes your lips are enveloped in full on color that will last all day!PREP - Gently exfoliate lips with a lip scrub to smooth and condition.APPLY - Outline lips with the point of the applicator. Apply a thin layer to clean bare lips, allowing color to set. There's five really beautiful shades of pink that I received from Pixi Beauty, but my favorite lip color and I think the one that suits me best out of them all is the 'Really Rose' shade. But I really, really, love these lipsticks. A LOT.

8. KORRES GREEK YOGHURT UNDER EYE PRIMING MOISTURISER

This advanced nourishing eye cream is formulated with yogurt, a centuries-old Greek skin soothing solution, and myrtle and rhodiola rosea extracts to reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, and puffiness. The cooling treatment perfectly primes the delicate eye area for flawless concealer application and is ideal for sensitive eyes prone to allergies. The ceramic cooling tip gently massages eyes with each application, giving eyes a refreshed and rested look. 

9. MADAM GLAM NAIL POLISH GELEMENTARY in 'TEACHER'S PET' 

This gel-like nail polish has the right amount of elegance and it is the perfect shade to lighten up your vibrant personality! Madam Glam has an assortment of colors ranging from bright to more subtle, such as nude shades. I always have a hard time finding the right shade with my skin tone but 'Teacher's Pet' is the perfect peach nude! I tried it once and have been using it since I have been getting a ton of compliments on the shade. I love that it lasts longer than normal nail polish and you don't need the typical LED/UV light to dry gel nails. I literally do two coats for full opacity and a top coat and I'm good for about ten days.

10. HERBAL DYNAMICS BEAUTY ROSE WATER CALMING FACE TONER

Soothe and calm skin with rose, green tea, chamomile, and witch hazel. Aloe and hyaluronic acid deliver instant hydration for a fresh, youthful appearance. Rose oil helps improve the effectiveness of beauty and skincare treatments by increasing permeability, making this toner perfect for use prior to serums and moisturizers in your routine. The smell is intoxicating and I love how relaxing the spray feels to my face, especially on drier winter days. 

11. NEON & CO. BODY OIL

Oil is the answer. A vegan-friendly, super rich, hydrating, and illuminating body oil. The kind you’ll want to bathe in - but who has time for that. Super absorbing, rub it all over. That means everywhere. It should only ever irritate you when it runs out. Let the gentle ingredients like Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil work their magic on your skin. All I have to say about this body oil is that it's my all-time favorite. That is all. :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Green with Envy

WEARING: s a k u NEW YORK LONG CLASSIC WOOL GREEN COAT | 
NATIVE YOUTH RUST HIGH NECK BLOCK JERSEY SWEATER | LEVI'S JEANS | 
ADIDAS STAN SMITH LEATHER SNEAKERS | MEDUSA GREEN FANNY PACK | 
STELLA MCCARTNEY OVERSIZED AVIATOR GLASSES

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY s a k u NEW YORK.

Happy Monday! How was everyone's weekend? Today we have round 2 out of 3 amazing coats by s a k u New York I will be sharing this coming week. I shared the first one on Friday which was a long chocolate brown vest but today it's all about the color green. The featured coat of the day really caught my eye at first glance and has so much versatility in it. And even though this could be styled on a more upscale level - I found it to be just as chic, casual. As the French say, "le détail qui tue" or, "the detail that kills." Come take a look at how I treated this look compared to the first one and the last one which will be up later this week. The last look will definitely be more 'extra' than the others, but in a good way :) Continue reading to learn more about this Korean designer, in particular, and why you will be hearing a lot more about s a k u New York in the future.  

The motif for s a k u is both the chic New York sense and the easy, breezy West Coast atmosphere. While being a unique, never-seen-before style, s a k u offers clothes that are ready-to-wear and easily approachable for anyone. Pursuing both sportiness and femininity simultaneously, s a k u showcases silhouette apparel that greatly emphasizes woman’s beauty along with comfortable fabrics that allow easy movement. This green wool coat is the epitome of s a k u. I discovered this Korean designer about a year ago through the New York City showroom, Dreams on Air in SoHo. She was one of the first designers I worked with when I started to do pulls and we have become close friends since then. I think it is truly wonderful when you are around others that support your dreams and vice-versa. I'm just really grateful we met! 

When it came to styling this coat, at first I thought I should do it up. But the coat speaks for itself. It is such a statement piece and I'm a huge fan of oversized coats. To continue with the  sporty quality of the coat, I remained casual in Levi's jeans and Adidas Stan Smith leather sneakers. I loved to the green scheme of the coat with the Adidas, so I also wore my favorite fanny pack by Medusa, which went perfectly well with it. I have to say green is probably one of my top three favorite colors aside from black and navy blue. What are your top-three favorite colors?

One of my favorite palettes together is pink with green. They compliment each other and the two together has always made me feel super relaxed. Like Georgia O'Keefe's studio in New Mexico, there's something zen about the colors, don't you think? The rust-colored pink top by Native Youth is more of a sweater dress, but I styled it as just a top with the Levi's. I wore it as a dress to a Cosmopolitan Magazine event here. Lastly, I wore my oversized aviator glasses to keep the look trendy and sporty. I tied my hair half-way up, but with more of a ponytail. The hairstyle was inspired by Julia Robert's character in Closer, where she first meets her love interest and subject while photographing him. I've always loved it since seeing the moving, so on the not so great-hair-days I style it this way. 

LOVE & XX'S, 

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Chocolate Browns and Mustard Yellow

WEARING: s a k u NEW YORK TAILORED WOOL LONG VEST | H&M TURTLENECK SWEATER |
VVA CARLINA YELLOW LEATHER HANDBAG | 
GENUINE PEOPLE HIGH SLIT WOOL SHIRT SWEATER | EXPRESS PANTS | 
NINE WEST HADDRIANA POINTY TOE PUMPS | LINEA PELLE STUD AND GROMMET CHOKER | 
H&M TRIBAL SPIKE DROP EARRINGS

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BE s a k u NEW YORK & NINE WEST.

Phew! I don't know about you but I've had one of those weeks where it all went awry. Every single thing felt off as if the cosmic stars weren't aligned the way it should be. My website even went down, and though it was only for a couple of hours, you can imagine the stress that came along with it. But the true lesson, when faced with any adversity, is to adapt and overcome. These kind of moments, I believe, are testaments to our perseverance. And in the end, if you stick with it, things do tend to work itself out. I wanted to get this post up earlier in the week, but there is only so much one person can accomplish on their own. Everything nowadays is so fast-paced, the art of taking one's time seems to be non-existent. When did quantity become greater over quality? It is all about creativity and I think that sometimes in order to achieve a really good content, you do need to slow down and work your magic. It's like when film used to be the only medium for photographers. They didn't post-produce something in a day (YES I have done that SO many times) and time was on their side. It's like a first kiss. The longer you wait for it, I think the more you'll savor and linger in it. Rather than something instant. You appreciate it more, no? Continue reading to find out why I'm posting less on the blog and why less is always more.

Even when it comes to styling, I never like to go over the top. It always ends up looking like someone is just trying too hard and it never really quite right. Shock value? Sure. Attention-seeking? You bet. But sometimes a subtle detail can make an entire outfit. Like in today's post, I styled my hair a little differently. I used a Linea Pelle choker that is adjustable, so I gave my neck a lot of breathing room and used it to loosely 'bob' my hair. For us girls who have long, thick hair but don't have the face/features for a short bob, this styling tip is one I love dearly! It's even fun to play a joke on your gfs - send them a quick picture and tell them you chopped your hair... the responses are hysterical. This hairstyle with the use of a choker is ideal for layered hair, but I bet it would look just as smashing on hair that is also just one length. 

Remember me mentioning s a k u New York, my favorite Korean designer? I wore a couple of her pieces during fashion week and have also done several editorials. (Check here and here) Well, she's back with a whole new collection and it is amazing! Look at the long wool chocolate brown vest. The structure and cuts are beautiful along with the quality of the fabric. And thanks to the wool, it is super warm for winter and perfect for anyone who loves to participate in the layering game. I paired it up with a wool sweater dress by Genuine People and some mid-rise pants by Express.

To balance the strong masculine color of chocolate brown, I went with a mustard yellow in some of my accessories. This is probably the only time I think mustard and chocolate sound good together! Ha ha ha! The gorgeous springbok bag is from VVA by Sarah Haran and my pointy toe pumps in faux snake print are by Nine West. My tribal spike drop earrings are no longer in stock (they're over ten years old from H&M) but I linked a very similar pair in the 'Shop the Look' section at the end of this article. They're from Steve Madden and are also really affordable! Thanks for stopping by and as always, feel free to drop me a line in the comment box! Enjoy the rest of the weekend, stay tuned for a lot of upcoming content next week!

LOVE & XX'S,

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Crispy White & Windowpane Print

WEARING: SHEIN DRAPE COLLAR GRID LONGLINE COAT | SHEIN FRINGE PATCH MESH TOP |
 J BRAND JEANS | NINE WEST YEMETRA POINTY TOE PUMPS | ROSEGAL SILVER BEAD HOOPS | 
ACCRUE KANDINSKY SUNGLASSES

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THIS POST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY SHEIN, NINE WEST, & ACCRUE.

Happy Monday guys! Have you seen my latest posts on Instagram? I've been super pumped to share this new outfit post! It's minimal chic and has one of my favorite patterns as of late: the windowpane print! It looks like a grid of some kind, and definitely polishes up any look, either dressing up or dressing down. You'll definitely be seeing more of this coat next month during my travels! But to the more important question... where is this coat from and where can you get it? Continue reading to find out and also to see one of my dream collaborations come true! I've been wearing their shoes since I was a teen. (Since I have the teeniest Asian feet I have to be more selective when it comes to shoe brands as not all brands carry my size!) Trust me, when you see this pair, not only will you be coveting hardcore - you'll want them in EVERY color! 

Not too long ago I worked with a very well-known skincare brand that I have been using since I was a teenager. (See post here.) I sometimes feel the need to pinch myself (but really no.) with some of the partnerships I've had in the past year. Some are global brands and I feel so privileged to be working with people/brands that are just as passionate and hard-working as I am. And with that, I'm so excited to share my collab with Nine West! When I first got into the digital media world, I never imagined I'd be working with some of the incredible brands I work with now. To even think I've worked with some of them still baffles me. It really goes to show you that if you want it bad enough and are willing to work your butt off, the results will be amazing. Just like these pointy toe white pumps. I can't get over how comfortable these heels are. They have a padded insole for all-day comfort. A high top line and a triangular stacked heel can freshen up any kind of look. From jeans to a dress and more, these shoes are extremely versatile and aesthetically pleasing. Want to buy 'em? Check the link on Instagram and also at the end of this blog post. As always, I leave shopping links at the end of each article.

The plaid, windowpane patterned coat that I raved about in the beginning of this post is from SHEIN Official. SHEIN prides itself on offering on-trend styles catering to both young women and teens, that won’t break the bank. SHEIN is able to stay on top of the latest fashion trends from around the globe while rapidly bringing these styles to market. So whether you’re searching for boho dresses and graphic tees or patterned blouses and chic swimwear, SHEIN is the ultimate one-stop-shop for the modern yet economical fashionista. The coat is meant for spring or fall, but I'm all about the layering game when it comes to winter time. The only factor that is missing from this coat is definitely a belt. But you can style it with your own accessories to give it a unique feel. 

The fringe patch mesh blouse is also from SHEIN. The waistline is high-rise and the top overall is quite elegant. It would go great with a midi skirt or jeans. Even a wide leg pant would do. I think I'll be wearing this blouse a lot in the next coming weeks. When it came to styling these pieces, I wanted to mix in a bit of edge as it's my style. I've never been one to wear pearls or douse myself in millennial pink (not that there's any shame in that!), so I decided to finish the look with a pair of faded black skinny jeans from J Brand and sleek silver hoop earrings from Rosegal. My nail polish is by Essie in 'Blanc' - I don't know why but I'm obsessed with white nails during the winter time. I believe it really gives a crisp touch to an outfit, what do you think?

Lastly, how beautiful are my new sunglasses?! They're from a Korean-based brand called Accrue. I'm completely in love! Use my discount code, ‘ILOVEACCRUE’ for 15% off your purchase. For more go to www.accrue.kr How are we feeling about this outfit? Do you like to mix different feelings in a look like myself? What's your favorite 'concoction' when it comes to styling all the new (and old) trends? Please drop a comment down below (and don't forget to shop as well!) ;) I love hearing from my readers - you guys always give the best feedback! Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead, catch y'all back on M + S real soon! 

LOVE & XX'S,

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L'ADRESSE NYC

This post is brought to you by L'ADRESSE NYC, but all opinions are my own. 

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At L’ADRESSE they serve innovative breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner menus, as well as pâtisserie created on site in the classic French tradition. Their diverse beverage program includes artisanal cocktails, fruit and vegetable blends, spritzers and one-of-a-kind coffee drinks prepared by an award-winning barista team. We're talking over 40 national and international awards for coffee excellence and hospitality! And well-deserved. Whether you want to enjoy a single cup of espresso or a complete dining experience, come take a read about my experience in this convivial atmosphere and laid-back attitude that made me feel so welcome and full at the same time. :) 

L’ADRESSE utilizes the latest trends in restaurant design resulting in a warm and welcoming walk-in atmosphere where guests can enjoy the highest quality of service, hospitality, and accessible pricing. Located right across the street from Bryant Park, it's perfect for both tourists and New Yorkers - it is one of a handful of restaurants in the U.S. to use the Josper grill, popular throughout Europe, to highlight the flavor of their meats, fish, and vegetables.

We tried the Wagyu carpaccio with Bayley Hazen blue cheese, bloomed mustard seeds, spring onions, and fig compote which was insanely delicious. And because it's #NationalSoupMonth, and the fact that I'm soup-obsessed, I tried both the classic borscht, a traditional beet soup with beef and crème Fraiche, and one of my favorite dishes we tried, their cauliflower soup with poached egg and garlic chili. A truly mind-blowing soup, I could eat it every day! We also had the seared sea scallops with truffle cauliflower purée, hazelnut brown butter, vincotto and a side of Brussel sprouts with Chinese sausage, sesame cilantro pesto, and chili lime vinaigrette. I loved the combination of flavors together, the scallops were perfectly cooked and service was top-notch. 

L’ADRESSE’s dessert repertoire includes fine patisserie created on site in the classic French tradition in collaboration with world-renowned pastry chefs. From the Chocolate Envy, a decadent chocolate mousse cake with hazelnuts to Smetannyk, a traditional sour cream layer cake to Tiramisu to Cheesecake and more, their menu is inspired by sweet flavors from around the world. They also offer whole cakes available to order in advance for pick up to celebrate those special occasions including birthdays and anniversaries. 

We weren't planning on dessert but once I saw their patisserie in the back, it was really hard to say no! We tried onyx, a Russian tea cake with white chocolate mousse with a bitter aloe twist in marble glaze. Never had this, even after having been to Ukraine - it was something new and fun to try. You can see it on my Highlights on Instagram for more, video and pics. We also had cheesecake with strawberry jam (out of this world) and Kimura, a French pistachio cake, refreshing lime, and passion fruit purée, that was superb. Really decadent and full of a variety of flavors, whether you just want a cup of coffee or a full meal, L'ADRESSE is definitely a place to check out in New York!

LOVE & XX'S,

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