A Simple, Inexpensive Lip Conditioner

When it comes to making a beauty statement, the bright, bold lip is here to stay. And, I couldn't be more thrilled!

Arguably, lipstick is the easiest, most accessible and inexpensive way to change your look from day to day, or simply, from day to night. However, applying any sort of pigment or gloss, with hopes of achieving a 'fashion ad result', is much easier said than done. And often times, the culprit of a less than desired application, is the condition of the lip itself.

The best way to prepare your face for any sort of make-up is to ensure your skin is exfoliated, conditioned and well hydrated. I can help you out significantly with the first two points, but water is the only solution to the third. Case and point, drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

During the colder months, skin becomes especially dry and flaky. If not properly exfoliated, dead skin cells tend to accumulate, making your overall complexion dull. Even with intensive moisturizing products, without frequent exfoliation, essential water and oils won't be able to penetrate the skin's exterior.

There are a lot of facial and lip scrubs available for purchase, but many come at a high and unnecessary price point. For me, the easiest and most effective formulation can be made right at home, in less than one minute.

To prepare, simply mix one teaspoon coconut oil, one teaspoon cane sugar (or granulated sugar) and one teaspoon honey in a small bowl to form a paste. Gently rub over lips for one minute and then rinse with warm water. Repeat twice per week. Store any extra exfoliating paste in the refrigerator for up to five days.

*Image via MAC Cosmetics

The Ultimate Skin Perfector: BB Cream

Fashion trends and scientific advancements have always influenced the ever-growing beauty industry. While that will continue, other influencers are gaining traction. Products that not long ago only had local relevance in a particular part of the world are quickly becoming global phenomenons! The most recent example of this is the BB Cream. 

I'm sure some of you have already jumped on the BB bandwagon. And others still aren't entirely sure about what this product is, or what it does. 

BB Cream, also known as Beauty Balm or Blemish Balm, originated in Asia in 2005, had huge success, and is the hottest talking point in the beauty industry these days. The all-in-one product functions as a primer, anti-aging serum, moisturizer, light moisturizer, and a sunscreen. BB Creams typically claim an SPF of 30+. Think of it as a tinted moisturizer on steroids!

I've tried several different brands of BB Creams currently on the market (one of the perks of being a beauty junkie and working in Product Development/Global Product Marketing for MAC Cosmetics)!

Some formulations are better than others. So, I encourage you test a few different brands to find the right match for your skin tone and type. As a starting point, here are a few of my favorites! 

1. MAC Prep + Prime BB Beauty Balm SPF 35

2. Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35

3. Dior Hydra Life BB Cream SPF 30

4. Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 30

5. Clinique Age Defense BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 30

 *Image via InStyle UK

Let There be Light

I've always loved contrast. Especially mixing old with new, traditional with contemporary, and combining a variety of elements to achieve the "perfectly imperfect" look.

Recently, I've found myself drawn to exposed light bulbs. They're classic, minimal and unfinished. But, seem to add an understated elegance to every room, effortlessly. Here are a few of my favorites!

1. Talk about adding a statement to any space. I'm in love with this gorgeous, gold chandelier.

2. This wall lamp would add nice, scholarly light to an office, den or reading nook.  

3. Assorted bulbs, hung at different lengths, warms up the raw, natural look of this Urban Chandy chandelier.

4. A simple lamp design from Norway. I've always loved Scandinavian style!

5. Look no further than ABC Kitchen, for dream-like dining and decor!

*Images via Restoration Hardware, ABC Carpet and Home, Pinterest, Urban Chandy, Pinterest, ABC Kitchen.

Perfectly Pale Polish

Ever since I moved to New York to work in the beauty industry, I've been obsessed with nail polish. And, weekly manicures have become a necessity, while at the same time, an indulgence.

My signature color is, and will always be, Essie's A-List. It's the most classic, award winning, cool-toned red available (and believe me, I've tried many)!

However, with that said, for the days when my red nails have chipped and I need something to get me through the remainder of the week, there's nothing better than a light, neutral polish.

I thought finding the perfect shade would be easy, being that there a million sheer, white/pink/nude colors available. But, I was wrong.

This may be a slight exaggeration, but my year-long hunt for an everyday pale polish has come to an end! I'm thrilled!

It's time to say good-bye to Mademoiselle and Ballet Slippers... And, hello to Boy Best Friend. This classic, creamy mauve is easy to apply, streak free (finally!), and looks elegant both for work or with a little black dress for a night out.

I do product development for a living and wish I would have created this lovely shade... Enjoy!

Summertime Style: Blush

When it comes to summertime fashion and accessories, bold colors and eclectic, geometric prints take center stage. I love everything about that energizing style... Except, how it looks on me.

Growing up, my Mom used to always tell me that my complexion made me a "Summer". And, while I didn't always completely understand what that meant, I did know that being the blonde haired, blue eyed, fair skined Swede that I am, brights weren't exactly my best friend. Warm-hues washed me out and anything I tried on in a cool based pastel ultimately ended up in my shopping bag. I guess it's safe to say, light neutrals will always overwhelm my closet.

One of my favorite shades is blush. It's classic, feminine and elegant almost any way you wear it. I'm loving this beach style as it's unexpected, yet perfect for a hot day by the water. I see it pairing perfectly with red lipstick and a matching pedicure, don't you agree?

*Image via dustjacketattic

Come On In... Take A Seat

New York City is an interesting place when it comes to living situations. Real estate is at a premium and square footage is, for the most part, non-existent.

When I moved here five years ago, I was fortunate to be able to live on my own. But, with that said, my studio was the size of a shoebox, fully equipped with a mini-fridge. It's very sad how similar that sounds to dorm-life!

(You would stop laughing, if I told you how much I was paying for rent).

So, when the Mr. and I finally found our "we're adults now" apartment in Tribeca, I have to be honest, I jumped for joy with excitement! And, I think screamed a little bit inside, too!

We absolutely love the space and I'm having a wonderful time browsing all the furniture and home decor boutiques, in search of the perfect accents for our home. Our approach to design is modern and minimalistic, with a touch of warmth. This style fits perfectly with the condo's aesthetics, which makes our building even more fitting.

As very few of our own things arrived with us as we moved (an International relocation is much more complicated than you would think), I've been trying to put together the apartment "room by room". Let's just say it's a work in progress.

I'm not the most decisive person when it comes to fashion and interiors because I like to see all my options. And, in a massive city like New York, you can imagine this takes a little time. I'd rather wait to find something I love, than purchase something quickly and only like it.

Today, I'm going to reveal the progress of the lounging area in the living room. We're so lucky to have high ceilings and an entire wall of windows. There's just something about natural light that feels so refreshing and airy.  To compliment this loft-like area, we chose a simple, grey sofa that was streamline, yet comfortable enough for the occasional weekend movie marathon. Bright, geometric accent pillows are always a great addition to any comfy couch. I found ours at Dwell Studio's new flagship shop in SoHo. 

{Dwell Studio, New Chevron Ash Pillow, Dwell Studio, Labyrinth Persimmon Pillow}

When it came time to decide on a coffee table, the more delicate and invisible the shape, the better. Room & Board had some wonderful options. Ultimately, we decided on the Portica Cocktail Table. I absolutely love it. 

{Room & Board Portica Cocktail Table, Room & Board, Wool Cable Rug, DVF, Gold Leaf Square Coasters}

Sometimes, modern silhouettes tend to lack a feeling of warmth. To counter that, we purchased a gorgeous braided wool rug that is situated under both the sofa and the coffee table. It feels like a cozy sweater on your toes. And, it also disrupts the industrial feel of hardwood floors, granite countertops and glass windows. 

Granted, we're still in need of artwork, pictures and decorative accents, but I'm extremely happy with our lounging area (work in progress). And, truth be told, it's functional, yet stylish!

{Crate and Barrel, Cameron Queen Sleeper Sofa, Aerin Brushed Nickel Floor Lamp}

Today:: The DVF Sample Sale

All you New York City fashionistas, get ready... The DVF sample sale has arrived!

If you're willing to brave long lines and crowded dressing rooms, stylish DVF pieces could soon be yours, at up to 70% off. I've been to several sample sales in the past and the selection is always very good.


Here are the details... See you there!


DVF Sample Sale

Deal: Up to 70% off samples, past-season items, and archival prints

When/Where: Tuesday, June 5 through Saturday, June 9. Tues 9am—6:30pm, Weds 10am—8pm, Thurs 10am—7pm, Fri 9am—5pm, Sat 10am—3pm. 260 Fifth Ave between 28th and 29th Sts (no phone)

Ends: Saturday, 9 Jun 2012


*Images via DVF

The Tolix Chair

Ever since we moved into our new apartment, home decor has become my new hobby. I find myself looking for design inspiration everywhere I go... It's so fun!

My most recent furniture obsession (ahem, purchase) is the Tolix Chair. In France, this galvanized metal bistro chair is ubiquitous. It was born in the 1930s by Xavier Pauchard and has been a decor staple in cafes ever since. 

And, as our apartment was in desperate need of perfectly designed bar stools (obviously), nothing compared to Tolix. 

Et voila... My new furniture love!

I've Got My Eye On:: The Wedge Sneaker

One of my favorite things about living in New York is seeing trends emerge (or, not quite make it), before anywhere else in the country. You see everything in this city... And, to me, that's inspiring.

A few months ago, I began to notice the "wedge sneaker". This was mostly in SoHo, and the shoes tended to be brightly colored, almost neon. At that time, I tried really hard to embrace the hot orange shoe, but in the end, just didn't have the urge to buy into it. 

Fast forward a few months, and I've got my eye on these wedges again. This time, in more neutral, casual colors. Here are a few of my favourites, mostly from ASH. Oh la la!

{ASH Bowie Wedge Sneaker Sand/Multi Suede, $235} 

{ASH Gin Wedge Sneaker Desert Canvas, $155}

{ASH Bowie Wedge Sneaker Orange Suede, $255}

{See By Chloe Wedge Sneaker, $395}

{Ash Bowie Wedge Leather Sneaker, $255}

Home (Apartment) Fragrance

Nothing makes a room more cozy than the look and smell of a beautiful candle. The ambiance of a small flame seems to always make our apartment more relaxing.

I like each room to have a very subtle, signature scent. Hints of bright citrus in the bathroom, more floral fragrances in the living room, and deeper, woody notes in the bedroom.

And, there's nothing worse than too strong, or artificial smelling candles. So invest in one that burns evenly and has a delicate scent that releases over time.

A bathroom should always have a clean and refreshing feel. I love the Orange Blossom Scented Candle by Jo Malone because it mixes the sweet smell of citrus with a warm, creamy note.

Floral and herbal candles are a perfect compliment to the living space because they tend to have inviting and familiar scents. You want people to feel welcome and at ease in your home. The very, very best living room candle is one I'm currently burning, as I write this post. Diptyque's Foincoupe candle has subtle notes of fresh greenery and almost smells like freshly washed linen, as it continues to burn.

Lastly, for the bedroom, deeper, more addictive candles are the best choice. Jason Wu's new collaborative candle with NEST is a favorite. The scent is beautiful wild orchid, and as it burns, the sensual background notes tend to become more pronounced. I also think the delicate, water-colour flowers painted on the vase make the candle look so pretty on a nightstand.

Buyers Remorse (Or Not)

I know it's a good thing, but rarely do I impulse shop. I think it's often because when I do, I usually suffer from the agonizing feeling of 'buyers remorse'.

That changed a couple weeks ago as I was casually browsing through Sephora. There I spotted it. The Clarisonic. Immediately, I grabbed the Mia and proceeded to the checkout counter, and never looked back.

(Well, this probably wasn't entirely an impulse purchase since I'd done significant research on the product and had only heard outstanding reviews on the fast-acting results. But still, I didn't have any intention on buying it that day. It just happened. Oops).

Granted I've only been using the Clarisonic for two weeks, I'm already in love! My skin is clean, soft and more hydrated than it's ever been in the past. The gentle exfoliation really allows moisturizers to deeply penetrate the surface. I actually find myself using less night cream, as well. Huge bonus!

If you're interested in trying the Clarisonic for yourself, check out the official website HERE.

I know I'm a beauty product junkie (good thing I work in the industry)... But, I'm thrilled to say, this is a skin saving game changer!

Rifle Paper Co.

Even though this winter has been unseasonably warm, I'm really in the mood for Spring! So, for a little pop of color, I like to turn to Rifle Paper Co., one of my absolute favorite stationary lines.

These bright items are certainly on my Springtime wish list:

1. New York City Print, $40. I love maps and shots of city skylines. This whimsical illustration would be a great addition to any apartment.

2. Botanical Coaster Set, $18. Over the holidays, I used my Kate Spade New York Gold Confetti Coasters. They're always a hit at any gathering. These would be a colorful update for Springtime brunch.

3. Heirloom Recipe Card Box, $135. Organizing my recipes is a top priority for Spring cleaning this year. This beautiful box will be a pretty addition to our kitchen. And, the recipe cards are adorable!

4. Vintage Telephone Notepad, $8. I always carry a notepad to jot down thoughts and ideas when I'm on the go. You just can't get any cuter than this one.

Vegas Style

{Alice+Olivia Barret Sequins Blouse, Reiss Marli Storm Flap Biker Jacket, Rebecca Minkoff Black Clutch, DVF Tunis Button Dress, TAG Heuer Watch, J Brand Skinny Jeans, Theory Semra Printed Silk Chiffon Tank, Equipment Earl Shirt, Christian Louboutin Simple Pump, Timmy Woods Red Lips Clutch}

We're Vegas bound this weekend with two other couples and I couldn't be more excited!

The Mr. and I don't have too much planned because we think it's kind of fun to go on vacation care free. But, that certainly makes packing a little more difficult.

So, I've already started putting a few staples in my suitcase, which I think will be perfect pieces for whatever comes our way. I'm thinking I may have to add my cowboy boots, as well... We secured Garth Brooks tickets for Friday night!

This will be my first trip to Las Vegas, so if anyone has restaurant recommendations or other "must-see" suggestions, be sure to let me know!

DIY Harper's BAZAAR Chain Bow Necklace

One trend I haven't fully embraced (but know for sure isn't going away) is the embellished Peter Pan collar. It's been spotted on the runway for a few seasons now and continues to be a coveted design element of top designers.

I've decided I should slowly ease into this look, so when I spotted this necklace online at Harper's BAZAAR, I knew it would be the perfect style transition!

Last week's DIY Charm Necklace tutorial was so popular, I know you'll love this one too! The detailed instructions for the DIY Harper's BAZAAR Chain Bow Necklace can be found HERE. Have fun!

*Images via Who What Wear and Harpers BAZAAR

For Your Man...

Like it or not, Valentine's Day is right around the corner!

Personally, I find this Hallmark Holiday comparable to New Year's Eve: expensive with high expectations.

But, it is an excuse to make an ordinary day a little extra-special... And, encourages us to show loved ones how important they are in our lives.

I love gift-giving, especially when I find something with a unique twist. So, when it comes to the man in your life, I promise you can't go wrong with these 'I Love You' suggestions:

1. Tumi Ballistic Snap Case for iPad 2, $95. He's already throwing his iPad in his Tumi briefcase. Give him the matching protective accessory.

2. Valerie Confections Scotch Truffles and Liquid Caramels, $32. Infused with Macallan Single Malt Scotch and paired with liquid caramels, these bon bons are a decadent indulgence.

3. Dinner for two at a steakhouse OR making a romantic main course at home, such as Grilled Lamb Chops.

4. Material 6 Wood iPhone Backs, $90. If you're looking for a way to add a bit of wooden warmth to the back of your iPhone, these are the only way to go. Available in a variety of finishes, they come complete with a tiny screwdriver that lets you go from glass to sturdy wood in less than a minute.

5. Kings County Distillery, $20. Kings County Distillery is NYC's first legal distillery since Prohibition. Available in Moonshine, Bourbon and Whiskey.

6. john varvatos Artisan, $80. john varvatos Artisan embodies craftsmanship while exuding a modern edge. The fragrance reinvents the "splash" feeling by blending state-of-the-art, abstract notes with classic citrus and herbal tones for a contemporary twist on the traditional cologne.

7. Shafer 2007 Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon, $225. Splurge on a great bottle of wine! This is one of our all-time favorites!

Inspiration:: Lavender and Lace

The palest shade of lavender...

Hanging delicates to dry...

Sipping on lavender lemonade...

And, biting into a sweet French macaron is divine...

Because it's time to mix a little winter with spring: Lavender Hot Chocolate...

Sun umbrellas are pretty, especially in lace...

Dining al fresco in a pretty field...

*Images via 1. citified 2. peerless desire 3. Food.com 4. tartletteblog 5,6. {this is glamorous} 7,8 Dreamy Whites 9. Style Me Pretty

Simply Charming:: DIY Necklace

I love making my own jewelry and tend to always be on the lookout for pretty charms and beads. So, today's DIY project is a simple charm necklace. The end result is a personalized, delicate accessory that looks great layered with other pieces.

I have a vintage, gold crest charm engraved with the letter 'E' that I've wanted to incorporate into a necklace for a long time. That's what I'm going to use, but feel free to select any charm or bead of your choice! Have fun!

Saving Face

In the dead of winter, it takes a little more effort to hydrate parched skin, especially on your face!

I've certainly had to amp up my beauty regime this year because my skin is naturally on the dry side. If your current lotions just aren't doing the trick, I highly recommend these soothing solutions!

1. Bobbi Brown Cleansing Oil, $39.00. Oil breaks down oil, making this cleanser highly effective in removing all traces of make-up and sunscreen without dehydrating the skin. I love that I can wash my face in one easy step!

2. Chanel Hydromax + Active Serum, $82.00. An ultra-hydrating serum that bring immediate moisture and relief to very dry skin. This serum has done wonders for my skin. It's silky smooth and only a small amount is needed to be extremely effective.

3. Clinique All About Eyes, $29.00. A moisture-rich cream that diminishes the look of under eye circles, shadows and fine-lines. I just started using eye cream and this one is fantastic!

4. La Mer, $140.00. A legendary and luxurious face cream that instantly soothes skin. It's worth every penny!

5. Dr. Perricone MD Omega 3 Dietary Supplement, $38.00. A supplement that helps to regulate weight and perfect skin. This superstar of supplements is derived from wild sockeye salmon—the purest and most powerful resource of Omega 3 and DMAE.

6. Kiehl's Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50, $34.00. Always wear sunscreen, even in the winter! This formulation is my favorite because it's not greasy. And, it prevents up to 90% of skin aging.

Finding the Perfect Scent...



{this is glamorous}


Navigating the fragrance counter can be quite intimidating... Especially this time of year! And, with almost 600 perfumes for Women, where do you start?

For those of you that don't know my background, the quick answer is: I work with renowned perfumers to create fragrances for celebrities and designers. I know, it sounds pretty cool (and it is)! I've worked for Elizabeth Arden for five years on the product development side of fragrance licensing. And, in that time, I've developed seven fragrances, mostly for Britney Spears, Kate Spade New York and Taylor Swift. All of which I HIGHLY recommend.

My sense of smell certainly has intensified... And, has truly made me a perfume critic!

Therefore, without further ado, I'll give my two cents for how to choose the perfect perfume.

First of all, there are two types of consumers: One is looking to wear a brand and the other is looking to wear a scent. You must determine which one you are before even going to the store.

If you're the former, you're ultimately going to be satisfied because you're not choosing your fragrance primarily based on smell. Some people just want to wear Chanel No. 5 because it's Chanel.

However, if you're looking to wear a scent, you're in for a lot more fun!

Perfume has many intricate details. And, it's best to start with learning the major fragrance families: Citrus, Florals, Orientals, Chypres and Woody. This might not mean a lot at the moment, but it will come with practice.

Citrus
The Citrus family has very linear notes: Lemon, Bergamot and Orange, for example. These fragrances don't change much with wear... What you smell when you spray, is what you smell hours later. They are very light, clean and refreshing.




{Eau De Marveilles by Hermes}


If this describes your style, I would suggest: Eau des Marveilles by Hermes, Chanel Eau Fraiche, Clinique Happy, Jo Malone Grapefruit and D&G Light Blue.

Florals
Most Womens fragrances on the market today are Florals. However, they don't all smell the same, and they can have sub-classifications based on the other ingredients in the composition.

If you like the soft, yet rich, smell of Jasmine, Tubersoe and Gardinia, you're a white floral kind of girl. I promise you'll like: Carnal Flower by Frederic Malle, Marc Jacobs Daisy, Twirl by Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Elie Saab, Chanel No. 5 and Bvlgari Jasmine Noir.



{Carnal Flower by Frederic Malle}


And, if you like spicier florals, like rose, I would suggest Chloe, Marc Jacobs Lola and Bulgari Rose.

Orientals
The Orientals are sweet, spicy, bold and intense... If that describes you, give the following a try: Opium, Flowerbomb by Viktor and Rolf, La Prairie, Angel, Fantasy Britney Spears and Wonderstruck by Taylor Swift.




{Flowerbomb by Viktor and Rolf}


Wonderstruck by Taylor Swift just launched, so test it out and think of me!




{Wonderstruck by Taylor Swift}


Chypres
The Chypres and Woody families are quite small in the women's category. There are some great Chypres though! Actually, my favorite fragrance is a Chypre, Chanel Coco Mademoiselle. A few other fantastic scents include: Stella McCartney, Narciso Rodriguez and Chanel Chance.




{Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel}


I'm not a big fan of woody fragrances for women, so I'm not going to recommend any.

I hope my perfume tutorial was informative... If you have any other questions or want additional recommendations, send me a note!