December Beauty Favorites

Happy last Friday of the year and also my last monthly beauty favorites of 2018! There’s tons of skincare going on in today’s post as I discuss my viewpoint on switching from two different skincare sets during the week - which better your skin regimen and its effects. We’ve also got my latest favorite scented candle from Diptyque, a mysterious fragrance from Jimmy Choo, the best liquid eyeliner and only eyeliner I’ve been using these days, and a dark spot corrector that’s so insanely good I had to let you know about it NOW even before it’s available online! Don’t worry though, it will be by next week so check it out and pre-order! Continue reading to learn more about my December beauty favorites!

ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN HYDRA-GEL EYE MASK

Only at ULTA! Smoothes, tightens, hydrates. ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Hydra-Gel Eye Masks are clinically proven to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, these refreshing hydra-gel eye masks smooth, tighten and hydrate your delicate eye area. Potent plankton extract, combined with the power of padina pavonica and chlorella, provides an instant skin-tightening effect, while hyaluronic acid hydrates the fragile eye area. Eye contours are left looking visibly smoother and feeling intensely moisturized. 

ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN CLEANSING BALM

This No.1 Bestselling cleansing balm deep cleanses and leaves skin supremely soft. Luxurious Rose and Mimosa waxes are infused with nourishing Elderberry, Starflower and Optimega™ oils and supercharged with anti-aging algae, Padina Pavonica. For an intensely nourishing treatment, you can also use this product as a facial mask. This powerful, deep cleansing balm is a cult hero, and I can firmly attest to this. It’s the only cleansing balm I’ve been using since I’ve tried it!

ELEMIS SUPERFOOD CLEANSING WASH

This rich and creamy facial wash revives and refreshes while deeply cleansing the skin. Nutrient dense, green superfoods have been chosen to enhance your natural radiance, offering skin lacking vitality, a balanced diet of active ingredients for an outdoor, fresh glow. Broccoli Seed, Avocado and Pumpkin Seed oils are combined with a natural sugar derived Pre-Biotic to help ensure the skin’s precious microbiome balance is maintained while Wheatgrass, Kale, Nettle and minerals are combined to leave the complexion looking fresh, luminous, bright and radiant. Leaves your skin looking radiant, bright and fresh. A green and balanced skincare diet to leave the complexion feeling nourished and replenished. Dull looking skin is replaced by a radiant and fresh complexion. Offers skin the benefits of your recommended daily greens. The integrity of skin’s microbiome is maintained, leaving it feeling balanced and nourished. Vegan Friendly.

ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN MARINE CREAM

This is the ultimate wrinkle-smoothing day cream from ELEMIS. Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is clinically proven* to reduce the appearance of wrinkles in 14 days, for skin that looks and feels younger and more firm. Padina pavonica, has been blended with ginkgo biloba, chlorella and precious rose and mimosa absolutes to moisturize the skin and visibly improve the appearance of fine lines, while supporting a feeling of suppleness, firmness and elasticity. 

AMORE PACIFIC TREATMENT CLEANSING OIL FACE & EYES

This gentle cleanser for the face and eyes is a blend of botanical oils—including green tea seed, babassu palm, and coconut oil—that dissolves and lifts away impurities and makeup (even waterproof mascara) without stripping away skin’s natural moisture. Upon contact with water, the multitasking formula transforms into a silky, non-oily emulsion that also works to improve skin luminosity and moisture retention for a smooth, glowing complexion. It is further enriched with hydrating green tea leaf extract and a radiance-boosting blend of ginseng root and white birch extract. 

AMORE PACIFIC TREATMENT CLEANSING FOAM

Effectively remove makeup and impurities without stripping your skin of essential moisture with AMOREPACIFIC US, INC.'s Cleansing Foam. Formulated with super hydrating Bamboo Sap and firming Red Ginseng Root, this anti-bacterial face wash contains exfoliating Vitamin E micro-beads that dissolve to release antioxidants. I like to use this skincare set along with the Elemis, and rotate them in the week. I feel when you use the exact same products all the time to the skin starts to not have the same effects versus to switching it up here and there. How do you guys feel about this?

AMORE PACIFIC TREATMENT ENZYME PEEL

Forget what you think you know about exfoliating peels - AMOREPACIFIC US, INC.'s gentle, botanical-infused formula is light enough for daily use. When combined with water, the fine powder transforms into a light emulsion that washes away dull, dead skin cells. You'll see a smoother and brighter complexion instantly. I use this enzyme peel twice a week and my face is smoother than a baby’s bottom! Truly amazing product!

CAUDALIE BEAUTY ELIXIR MINI

A natural, innovative toning mist that sets makeup, provides an instant burst of radiance, and tightens the appearance of pores, featuring the same bestselling formula with a new, improved pump to finely and evenly distribute the lightweight mist. Inspired by Queen Isabelle of Hungary's famous elixir of youth, Beauty Elixir is formulated with grape extracts and clarifying ingredients to provide an immediate burst of radiance. The complexion treatment reduces dullness and is infused with toning rosemary, astringent mint, and soothing rose essential oil to prepare your skin for further treatments. Beloved by celebrities and makeup artists worldwide, the Beauty Elixir is the ideal priming base and setting spray between layers of makeup for a long-lasting and smooth finish. Perfect as an aftershave for men too! This mini is ideal for travel.

DIPTYQUE POMANDER CANDLE

If you don’t know by now, my all-time favorite candles are from Diptyque. And this newly discovered scent is all the rage. Pomander is a delicious orange studded with cloves and cinnamon, the spicy scent of winter. It’s the most incredible fragranced candle, and you Diptyque’s candles burn for quite a long time on top of its quality scents. What’s your favorite scent by Diptyque?

JIMMY CHOO FEVER EAU DE PARFUM

Jimmy Choo Fever Eau de Parfum is an addictive and sensual fragrance. Effortlessly glamorous, the Fever woman has a mysterious side, yet always has the ability to shine.

Fragrance Notes:

• Top: Black Plum Nectar

• Heart: Heliotrope

• Base: Roasted Tonka Bean

TARTE MANEATER LIQUID EYELINER

This vegan, quick-drying liquid eyeliner features intense black, lash-enhancing pigment spheres & a waterproof formula to ensure tonight's eyeliner won't turn into tomorrow's smoky eye. The micro brush tip glides on smoothly to create precise definition or drama where you want it & moves with the contours of your lashline for the perfect, one-swipe application. You can use it to sculpt & fill in spaces between lashes for an ultra-black boost in volume or extend it out to a sexy #maneater wing.

DR. DENNIS GROSS CLINICAL GRADE IPL DARK SPOT CORRECTING SERUM

A viable alternative to hydroquinone, this pro-level treatment fights discoloration by removing over-pigmented surface cells, brightening skin tone, and fighting against environmental aggressors. Skin brightness improves in as early as two weeks, while diminishing visible discoloration in eight weeks. Containing lactic acid helps fight acne and I can confirm dark spots are gone even after a month! I started to notice results right away. It will be available online and in stores January 4th. It’s $90 for one 1.0 fl oz bottle, but it’s literally magic potion in a jar so you will definitely be getting your money’s worth.

LOVE & XX’S,

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What to Wear on and off the Slopes

WEARING: RED & WHITE FUZZY COAT | HEAT TECH TOP | SKI PANTS | COMBAT BOOTS | COGNAC STUDDED BAG | YELLOW SUNNIES

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I hope you are enjoying this holiday season! How was everyone’s Christmas (to those who celebrate)? My hubby and I always keep it low key. We don’t have big families and the imminent pressures of engorged family gatherings and togetherness may not always bring happy feelings, but just the two of us, with of course our baby, MaQ, is always enough. Life has many twists and turns, and is very short, so I consider to be very lucky to have my boys with me. They are my life and without them, I’m not too sure how well I’d do. The spirit of this time period isn’t about presents, lights and pretty festive pictures (raise your hand if you’re a NYC blogger and shot at Lotte Palace, Rockerfeller Center, or another touristy-driven location site…) Sorry not sorry. I. JUST. CAN’T. So instead of the same ole’ content everyone is doing, I’m still doing it MY WAY. So in today’s post, we’re mixing Aspen with Chinatown - grunge with ski wear. Continue to see the details from this uber cool yet casual styled look for the winter, and how to get this ski-inspired outfit!

The touch of color on the sleeves and chest, gives a unique style to the coat to be worn in casual occasion, on and off the slopes. By the way, can you believe I have never tried skiing before in my entire life?! I’m a trained figure skater, so I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be completely terrible at it! Plus, being a Midwestern gal at heart, I’ve always loved winter and even more so, the snow. Normally with a ski jacket/coat, it is puffy and not exactly the easiest piece of outerwear to maneuver in. But this faux fur shearling-styled jacket is great in the cold, and quite fitting for next month… the month of love :) I love how this v-shaped jacket also looks like there’s a heart in the red, when angled to the side. Do you guys see what I see?

The red and white jacket is quite warm, but when the temperatures dramatically drop whether you’re skiing or not, it’s important to be properly insulated. Which is why I wore my favorite Uniqlo Heat Tech top. Black, sleek and goes with many many outfits. It is definitely a staple piece in my closet during the winter season. I love how lightweight it is, and that you can easily layer with other clothes to keep warm. The black pants are from Reebok. A classic jogger-silhouette, these comfy pants has a slim fit with a modern cut that hugs the body while still leaving room for movement. Very comfortable cotton fabrication. Other features include front hand pockets, tapered ankles for a bulk-free fit, elastic waistband with drawcord and detail at the outer left pocket. 

To continue with the mostly black ensemble, I styled the look with my latest favorite pair of winter boots - these yellow-laced black combat boots. I thought the high-ankled boots would fit well with the jogger pants, keep an elongated frame. Sneakers wouldn’t made me look stumpy I think when it came to this look. They’re also great to tread in snow, completely durable and also easy to walk in. Literally can’t get enough of ‘em! Other accessories that I styled with this look is this cognac studded crossbody bag from Foley & Corinna and a very cool yellow pair of cateye sunglasses. I think the colors tied everything together when it came to the overall look.

What do you guys think of this look? Can it be worn both on and off the slopes? Are you an avid skier? Got any suggestions for a first-timer? Ha ha! Also, where’s a great place near New York? Vermont? Upstate? I’d love to hear from you guys as I continue to do my search for a possible trip with the boys! Also, I’ve listed each piece from this look with direct links in the beginning and end of this post. Wishing you guys a wonderful rest of Christmas break and an even Happier New Year! I have a feeling 2019 is going to be fun! Until next time… :)

LOVE & XX’S,

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White Teddy Moto Jacket

WEARING: WHITE TEDDY MOTO JACKET | FAUX LEATHER LEGGINGS | BLACK CUTOUT BOOTS | BLACK STAR BALL BAG

Hey, guys! Are you done with all of your Christmas shopping yet? I’m still not done and every year I’m a last minute shopper. So while running around doing last minute shopping I like to stay in comfort when it comes to my personal style. I’m never the girl decked out in a full ballgown while running around town, let alone a simple dress. So in today’s post, we’re keeping it semi-casual but still maintain my edgy vibe - even if it’s just going out in search of holiday gifts for loved ones! Check out more details on how I styled this cozy white teddy moto jacket with faux leather leggings and a very spectacular glow-in-the-dark ball purse! Not to mention a pretty fierce set of black cutout boots.

If you haven’t seen my latest style post, I paired this Maya Luz bag with a pink dress (LINK HERE)! But I love the bag so much, who says I can’t wear an evening bag in the middle of the day?! It brings a ton of fun to my outfit, and literally since I got it, I can’t get ‘Wrecking Ball’ out of my head. Ha ha! All giggles aside, I’m truly obsessed with the design of this unique bag. 100% leather base with Swarovski crystal stones, silver studs, glow in the dark stars and hand painted detailing, there’s only a limited edition of 50 made in New York City, so it’s pretty wild I was able to receive on of them! She makes other designs aside from this one, so if you’d like to see more go to www.maya-luz.com

How warm does this styled up teddy bear white moto jacket look?! It is super cozy with a slight edge in its details. I’m normally not really into anything brown, but this past fall/winter season I can’t seem to wear enough of the color! I think it suits well with my hair color. But this moto jacket is the perfect kind of jacket to wear while running around and doing errands. I don’t like to wear a heavier coat because I get too warm inside, and sweat more, and by the time I go back outside, I’m shivering from the change of temperature so much. So I’d suggest a less hefty outerwear piece to shop in. More room equals better comfort as well as being efficient :)

I styled the coat instead with a pair of jeans like my usual self with a pair of faux leather leggings. These are under $20 bucks from Zulily. Affordable, comfortable, and stylish - they looked really cool with my new Cotto croc print ankle boots. With a pointed toe, sassin' block heel and cut out sides - these boots are right on trend. And the buckle and lace up details will have all eyes on you. I'll be wearing mine all day erryday. :) They are currently on sale for only $25 bucks! Get them before they’re sold out, trust me, I know they will go fast!

How would you have possibly styled this white teddy moto jacket? I think it would look amazing with a great pair of jeans or even a dress with some killer winter boots. I decided to keep it casual with an edge, something you’d see me wearing in an everyday outfit. D

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How to Wear a Maxi Skirt If You Are a Petite or a Short Woman

WEARING: MOOD SWEATER | PINK MAXI SKIRT | RED CROSSBODY | BLACK COMBAT BOOTS

Stepping up my game in the styling department this Monday! You know, us, petite girls, need a little more recognition in the fashion world because it’s not easy styling when it comes to being short. Especially when it comes to bottoms: Pants, skirts - you name it, normally anything will need some adjustments. But what if you can’t take it in to the tailor every time? Pinching a few pennies? Why not, “Make it work” as Tim Gunn says? And if you’re a true stylist, you can adapt to anything and yes, indeed, make it work! You know I’m not much of a pink girl, but many of my readers really like it when I wear this color. So on one count, I’m challenging myself to style one skirt in two completely different ways, and two, for the love of my followers. Here you go! Continue reading to see the complete shoot!

When I thought about how to style this skirt, given the fact that the pink maxi skirt (as cute as it may be), it was far too long for me. So what’s a petite gal to do? HIDE THAT ISH. And since it’s winter, I paired it with a loosely fitted black cashmere sweater with #MOOD written on it in a plush red. To accentuate with the top, I accessorized with my new favorite bag that’s got a gorgeous oxblood color with an adjustable gold chain. You can see how I wore it both ways. Even my lipstick and nails are similar to the shades or red, but not exact. And this was intentional. I think it brings more of the pink out in terms of its statement, and it’s quite a ruffly skirt! I may not be a girly girl, but I sure do feel quite the lady when wearing it.

My new favorite black winter boots have yellow laces and a rough edgy feel to them. I’d say they’re combat boots and the platform always makes me feel like I can kick ass when wearing them. Ha ha! I’d say this look has a definite punk feminine chic vibe to it. You know me for my edginess & rebelliousness when it comes to my personal style, I really had fun putting together this first look. But wait… there’s the other look. How did I style the pink maxi skirt this time? Definitely has an overall different vibe to it as well!

WEARING: PINK MAXI SKIRT | BLACK BELT | BLACK HEELS | STAR BAG

One of my favorite ways to style a maxi skirt is to wear it as a dress! As a petite and short woman (I’m only 5’3’’) who is always looking for ways to save a few bucks, and also doesn’t always have time to wait in between alterations at the tailor’s, it never hurts to find creative ways to style yourself! And this second look is more for an evening affair. Playful, elegant and still with a little bit of edge, this pink maxi skirt, now dress, is a showstopper. I styled the piece with the darkest color known to man to give contrast to the feminine shade I don’t normally wear, if not ever. I love pink and black together!

The look was definitely inspired by Carrie Bradshaw’s Oscar de la Renta dress from the show, Sex & the City, where her Russian boyfriend gifts it to her right before whisking her away to the ballet. I wanted the same type of feeling when it came to the second look. More whimsical. A touch of elegance. And a look you’ve never seen me do. And just like Carrie, I have a thing for accessories. This unique 100% leather based ball bag with Swarovski crystal stones, silver studs, glow in the dark stars and hand painted detailing is pretty insane when it comes to its details and I thought it was quite the bag to carry with this look! 

I wore black strappy heels to give more of an elongated look as well as keeping with the color scheme. And when it came to styling this pink maxi skirt into a dress, I knew I need to cinch the waist with a belt, to give some shape to the long dress. I just used black satin ribbon, the same one I wore on my wedding day, and snugly tied it in the back. A statement belt, like the one I’ve linked would be just as great, but to style this as a dress it definitely need something to hold the waist in. Thanks for stopping by and checking out my duo-styled post! I truly enjoyed doing this, so let me know if you’d like to see more styling challenges like this one! Until next time… :)

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Holiday Shopping with QuadPay

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY QUADPAY BUT ALL THOUGHTS & OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

The countdown to finishing up all your holiday shopping is on! Have you completed everyone’s wish lists yet? Perhaps, even one for yourself? But with all the retail purchases this month, I bet a lot are anxious about going broke! Especially when making those extra big, luxurious purchases. Well, what if I told you I found a way to budget - where you can buy what you love with zero interest?! You can split the purchase amount into 4 interest-free payments, spread over 6 weeks. There are no fees if you pay on time. So what is it? Continue reading to find out and also to learn more about my experience with the app along with what I purchased!

QuadPay empowers consumers with the option to pay for their purchases in four equal and interest-free installments over six weeks; the customer gets the product upfront while QuadPay’s brand partners are paid immediately. As the millennial population enters their prime spending years with less than 50% having access to credit, QuadPay is disrupting the field of payment solutions as the most innovative provider of affordable purchase in North America — buy now, pay later.

QuadPay is fully integrated with the store’s online checkout. All you need to do is choose QuadPay as your payment option when you’re ready to buy. If you are shopping with a participating store, Quadpay will be listed as a payment option during checkout. QuadPay splits your payments over four equal installments due every two weeks. Nominate the card you want to use and automatic payments are scheduled for you. It’s that easy!

There are several brands partnering with this app, such as Koio, Naadam, For Love & Lemons, UGG®, Staud, and more. I recently stopped by at the beautiful popup in SoHo, La Boutique, where one of my favorite Parisian labels, Offtrack, who makes the best luxurious lambskin leather leggings out in the market, is one of the curated women brands in the store. Extremely fitting and versatile, it’s the perfect staple piece to have in your closet for the fall/winter. Coming in two various lengths, butt boosting seamlines and hip framing sides, it was kind of hard to choose only one pair! I went with the caramel suede pair, but they have also have black and reds.

Instead of paying the full amount of $550, I am making 4 easy payments of$137.50. Definitely helpful in terms of budget and finance! That way I can balance and still have extra money that I would have spend if I hadn’t used QuadPay. How cool is this new featured app?! Once you're approved by QuadPay, you can begin shopping with their partners immediately. Approval is quick, easy and requires only a few personal details. Never pay interest again.

I’m telling you, this is going to be the difference between making or delaying a purchase. So if you have an extra pricey item you’re wanting to buy for your loved one/family, or yes… even for yourself, why not check out QuadPay the next time you’ll be making a bigger purchase? There’s zero-risk involved, and the easy-peasy process will have you grinning from ear to ear. That… and your brand new purchase :)

So tell me, what would you guys go shopping with using QuadPay? New pair of Nikes? Need that NorthFace winter coat to hit the slopes? Whatever your heart desires this season, rest assured that QuadPay has got your back and will make the holiday shopping extravaganza less stressful this year and every time you shop now! For more info go to www.quadpay.com and if you’d like to stop by the La Boutique popup, they are in SoHo at 250 Elizabeth Street until 12/23!

LOVE & XX’S,

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