#glossier you is a staple in my life and i love having these that are similar but different

[ariesize]

i went and smelled the new glossier fragrances yesterday. doux is what i've seen others say - fancy hotel lobby, OG you but elevated, slightly woodier/earthier but not overwhelmingly so. reve, which is the one i purchased, is a dessert. the plum and buttercream notes are so whimsical and soft. it's clean, has that spicy pink pepper from og you, but it's not crazy sweet. not a true gourmand but still delicious. i smell like the sugar plum fairy or a small town bakery before the holidays. it's lovely.

[werealljustwinginit]

Tell us about what skincare ingredients and products you love!

Okay, so I LOVE TALKING SKINCARE. This is a huge topic for me and I often write up a blog post once a year where i recommend skin care products. So here is this year’s recommendation! An insanelyyyyy long and detailed post nobody asked for!! HERE WE GO: 

I am a long time skincare advocate...before it really blew up and people started really getting to know more about their products and ingredients. I’ve just always had very acne-prone skin so I’ve had to pay attention to what products and ingredients I was using and how their formulas worked for me. As a result, over the years I tried A SHIT TON of products. Many expensive, fancy, high end, etc. But now I have my skincare routine down to a much more manageable and quality ingredient list. Obviously everyone’s skin is different...but this is what I use on a regular basis these days:

Serums:

- Krave Beauty’s Great Barrier Relief Serum: Honestly, this is THE SHIT. My favorite moisturizing serum to really help balance your skins hydration barrier and stay hydrated. It’s thicker and almost feels like a moisturizer. It’s so great.  - The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Drops: Niacinamide is an amazing ingredient for your skin and can help a tremendous amount with clearing the skin, resurfacing, fading scars, and more. This really does a good job helping with my acne, so i really recommend to anyone. And I am pretty sure it’s like $5 cause it’s from the ordinary.

Moisturizers:

- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: It’s a very cheap drug store moisturizer that has good, clean ingredients. After using fancy moisturizers for years, I finally gave into my dermatologist’s recommended lotion. LOL. They do have a lotion that is lighter, but my skin tends to be dryer, especially in the winter so I use the cream not the lotion. It’s thicker. (For high end junkies--it’s like comparing Drunk Elephant’s LaLa Retro to their Protini cream). I also sometimes throw in drops of a marula oil into this cream if I am really dry. Make myself a little face smoothie. 

Eye/Lip Creams:

- Mario Badescu Ceramide Herbal Eye Cream: Now honestly, I still haven’t found my perfect eye cream yet...but I have used this one for a few years now. It moisturizes well and is cheap to buy. It’s probs not the most effective but at least I am moisturizing my eye area. One day I will take on more eye creams that target certain things, but that is one day when I have money to spend lmao. -Glossier Bubblewrap Lip/Eye Cream: This is a very unique moisturizing product that is meant for sensitive skin like your eye area and lips. It does say it plumps a bit, which I don’t ever feel a plumping effect, but I do love to use it on my lips. It’s so moisturizing and is kind of like using a primer before you apply chapstick or lipstick. 

Exfoliators:

- Glossier Solution: The OG chemical exfoliant I tried and loved. These types of products aren’t great for everyone, and may have to be used less or more depending on skin type, but as an acne-prone human, I love a chemical exfoliant. This works and lasts a long while.

- Krave Beauty’s Kale-Lalu_AHA: Another chemical exfoliant. I recently tried this one because I do believe Krave Beauty uses better ingredients than Glossier Skin typically does (no shade tho). They were close in price, so I made the switch and have enjoyed the results so far. The packaging is also beautiful.

- Dr. Brant Microdermabrasion Exfoliant: This is NOT a chemical peel, this has aluminum oxyde crystals in it to polish the skin like a normal exfoliant would. It also has a lot of ingredients that help renew and refresh the skin while exfoliating. Now this product is HELLA expensive...I only have it because I once bought it for way cheaper when I had a subscription box. I don’t know if I would spend the full $80 bucks on it, but your skin does feel smooth.

- Tatcha The Deep Polish: This is an enzyme powder that you mix with water and exfoliate fro there. It is from when I used to buy the highest end products in hopes it would help my skin. It is pricey, but again does leave your skin feeling soft. So I rotate it in from time to time.

Masks: 

- The Ordinary’s AHA 30% BHA 2% Peeling Solution: AKA THE BLOOD MASK. Now hugely popular on social media, the “blood mask” is a chemical mask that peels off dead skin and essentially works to eliminate the top layers of your skin and begin rejuvenating a fresher layer for softer, healthier, plumper skin. I do this once a week and it is way cheap. I can compare it to Drunk Elephant’s Sukari Babyfacial and it definitely beats that expensive version.

- Glow Recipe’s Avocado Melt Sleeping Mask: This is an overnight moisturizing mask that you simply wash off in the morning. It really helps lock in moisture and feels nice on the skin. I use this when I am feeling really dry. 

- Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask: This one you have to mix the dry clay mixture with water and apple cider vinegar to create a goo that you can then let dry on your face. It may be intense for some, but I find it really helps dry out my acne spots and reduce redness in my skin. It’s always a fun one to do with other people too because you do have to prepare it. Good sleepover activity. 

- GlamGlow Bubble Sheet Mask:  This one is honestly more so used for when I am traveling and want to keep a mask on hand or when I am having a fun girls night or something. It’s a bubble mask--so to me that just means fun. I typically avoid sheet masks (unless I am traveling) because I think you end up throwing a way a lot of product you are paying for. But this one is fun, it’s cute, it’s different. I don’t notice a huge change in my skin tbh, but it is a fun activity for girls night. 

Honorable Mention/Random Products:

- Youth to the People’s Kale and Green Tea Superfood Cleanser: I stayed away from this one for a long time because it’s expensive and I could rationalize buying such an expensive cleanser, but I got a gift card to Sephora and finally decided to try it. And ya know what?? I guess I am fancy now because I really love it. It does not overly strip your skin at all, and for the first time in my life I really know what that means. It’s so great, it smells so good. Ugh. Can’t get enough of this bougie bitch of a face wash.

- The Inkey List Retinol Cream: A recent purchase, but I have enjoyed seeing the results. Everyone imo should be using an eye cream and a retinol. This is a nice introduction to retinol, so I recommend to those looking for one.

- Glossier Mint Balm Dot Com Chapstick: THIS AGAIN--IS THE SHIT. Many will say they would never spend more than two bucks but one tube of their’s is seven bucks and it is WORTH IT. I buy the three pack once a year and i’m good. This is the best chapstick you will literally ever use. Fucking buy it. If I could tell you only three products that are a must from this list this would be one of them. (the other two would be great barrier relief and the kale cleanser)

- Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: I like this lip mask, it’s not needed everynight, but I do like to use a lip exfoliant (made or buy one, whatever) and then use this to really retextures my lips. 

- Bag Balm: Now this is a very unusual product to recommend lmaooo. Originally, bag balm is used for chapped cow udders on farms--which is how I discovered it. Farmers eventually noticed that it helped your skin retain moisture and repair cracked skin in their hands. So now it is known as a good thick ass cream for hands and feet. Now this shit is again--used on cows originally, so the formula feels thick and greasy. I like putting it on at night and letting it soak in for a while as I lay on my phone. It really works--I swear to you. 

- Sagely CBD Cream: I use their relief and recovery crea which smells like lavender and has a cooling effect when applied to the skin (kinda like biofreeze or icyhot would). This is only a 50mg CBD lotion, but I do like it. 

- Mad Ritual CBD Muscle Recovery Balm: Now this is thick and definitely a balm, not a cream. It is much higher strength though, so I break it out when needed and a little goes a long way. This one is 200mg of CBD. 

- Mario Badescu Drying Lotion: This drying lotion is now so popular but has been a staple of mine for at least a decade now. You leave it on over night and it really does dry up and reduce zit size. Helps a lot. There must be a reason why super models are told to use this shit before a runway show. 

- Tatcha The Essence: Essences are a new and kind of weird thing, kinda like priming the skin to allow for better absorption of a product. Now this product I received as a Christmas gift one year, but I am pretty sure it’s like $100...breaking the bank as always, tatcha. Anyway, it does allow for better absorption of products and feels light and refreshing on the skin. One bottle has lasted me two years now. I don’t know if I would recommend it, but I do use it somewhat regularly and it does make you feel like a bougie bitch. 

AND THAT IS THE END. Sorry that was soooo long. But like I said, I do a write up once a year of my skincare products anyway. So there you guys have it!! If you have any questions at all about your skin or skincare routine , honestly hit me up. Over the years I have slowly has friends come to me. Once I collect all of the I will have all of the infinity stones lmao. 

[cttncndys]

  𝐏𝐀𝐗𝐓𝐎𝐍 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐀'𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌 𝐅𝐓. 𝐒𝐈𝐄𝐑𝐑𝐀 𝐊𝐈𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐘  (  @almedas  )

+  bonus  count  for  my  fave  under  the  cut  <3

𝐖𝐇𝐎 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝟏𝟎 𝐏𝐄𝐎𝐏𝐋𝐄 𝐇𝐄'𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐆?

the  10  people  he’s  following  are  :  sierra  (  of  course  )  ,  pringles  ,  oreos  ,  netflix  ,  vans  ,  chipotle  ,  recess  (  water  brand  he  drinks  )  ,  tifanny  &  co  ,  glossier  ,  &  ryan  reynolds  .  his  reasoning  ?  he  only  follows  the  ten  most  vital  things  in  his  life  .

𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐒

who  is  the  most  affectionate  ?

paxton  ,  this  man  is  so  touch  starved  he  is  constantly  hugging  her  ,  grabbing  her  waist  ,  kissing  her  ,  this  man  simply  has  no  sense  of  boundaries  around  her  .

who  initiates  the  hand  holding  ?

sierra  ,  affecionate  as  he  is  ,  he  simply  isn’t  used  to  like  wanting  to  have  his  hand  held  ,  but  when  she  does  it  he  feels  safe  ,  he  knows  that  everything’s  going  to  be  okay  . 

who  worries  more  about  the  other  ?

as  much  i’d  love  to  say  both  ,  it’s  definitely  sierra  ,  given  how  high  stakes  his  job  is  and  the  fact  that  he  cheats  ,  it’s  honestly  probably  constantly  tense  when  he  mentions  work  .

who  is  most  likely  to  ask  for  help  ?

paxton  ,  not  only  because  sierra  more  strong  willed  than  he  is  ,  but  he  simply  needs  her  help  with  things  more  often  because  the  lights  are  on  upstairs  but  no  one’s  home  yk  ?  def  asks  sierra  how  to  do  basic  tasks  all  the  time  .

who  is  the  one  always  losing  the  keys  ?

paxton  ,  sierra  def  has  a  place  to  hang  them  up  ,  and  a  little  bowl  by  the  door  just  in  case  pax  forgets  to  hang  them  up  ,  but  he  always  put  them  in  some  out  of  pocket  place  like  the  vegetable  drawer  of  the  fridge  .

who  leaves  little  love  notes  for  the  other  ?

paxton  ,  he’s  out  super  late  most  nights  for  work  so  he  definitely  uses  the  days  that  she’s  out  at  her  gigs  to  scatter  little  love  notes  about  for  semblance  of  comfort  when  he’s  gone  .

who  can’t  sleep  unless  the  other  is  there  ?

sierra  ,  esp  with  pax’s  late  nights  ,  she  probably  tries  to  stay  up  for  him  only  to  be  asleep  by  the  time  he  gets  there  ,  but  he  always  gives  her  a  kiss  on  the  forehead  before  crawling  in  bed  next  to  her  .

who  is  more  likely  to  propose  to  the  other  ?

paxton  ,  this  man  definitely  has  a  wedding  ring  burning  a  hole  in  his  pocket  ,  always  carries  it  around  waiting  for  the  perfect  time  because  he  truly  does  want  to  spend  the  rest  of  his  life  with  her  .

who  is  more  likely  to  play  with  the  other’s  hair  ?

sierra  ,  def  constantly  runs  her  hands  through  paxton’s  hair  ,  pax  just  thinks  sierra’s  hair  is  too  pretty  to  touch  and  just  stares  in  awe  .

who  makes  sure  the  other  has  meals  /  stays  hydrated  ?

sierra  ,  you  could  not  pay  paxton  to  take  care  of  himself  ,  she  definitely  has  to  go  behind  him  so  he  doesn’t  forget  to  do  basic  necessities  and  eats  proper  meals  instead  of  handfuls  of  oreos  all  the�� time  .

who  is  more  likely  to  stand  up  to  anyone  for  the  other  ?

both  ,  sierra  just  on  her  own  would  fight  anyone  who  looks  at  paxton  the  wrong  way  ,  and  paxton  might  be  a  teddy  bear  but  refuses  to  allow  anything  to  happen  to  sierra  .

who  is  the  most  likely  to  prepare  a  surprise  for  the  other  ?

sierra  ,  anytime  paxton  tries  to  sierra  he  def  ends  up  telling  her  after  simple  pleading  and  puppy  dog  eyes  ,  but  sierra  is  way  better  at  keeping  things  under  wraps  to  surprise  him  .

who  makes  the  other  pinky  promise  not  to  do  certain  things  ?

paxton  ,  biggest  kid  at  heart  i  know  ,  promises  aren’t  enough  for  him  ,  he  has  to  pinky  promise  things  in  order  for  them  to  be  official  .

who  puts  a  blanket  over  the  other  when  they  fall  asleep  on  the  couch  ?

paxton  ,  any  time  he  gets  home  and  sees  her  sleeping  on  the  couch  because  he’s  waiting  for  her  ,  he’ll  put  a  blanket  over  her  .

who  is  the  little  spoon  ?

both  ,  depends  on  the  day  honestly  .

who  sings  in  the  shower  ?

both  ,  paxton  definitely  yells  the  lyrics  more  than  sings  but  sierra  at  least  tries  .

who  plays  pranks  on  the  other  ?

paxton  ,  never  anything  enough  to  get  him  in  trouble  because  he  def  is  terrified  of  sierra  ,  but  just  silly  dumb  things  .

who  is  the  one  who  listens  to  pop  music  ?

sierra  ,  because  pax  is  literally  a  walking  meme  definitely  only  listens  to  bo  burnham  and  dumb  comedy  songs  .

who  brings  the  other  a  random  cup  of  coffee  ?

paxton  ,  he  randomly  shows  up  to  her  gigs  and  brings  her  coffee  order  or  a  nice  little  pick  me  up  snack  because  it’s  an  excuse  to  see  his  girlfriend  .

who  picks  the  cheesy  movies  for  date  night  ?

paxton  ,  has  a  secret  spot  for  romcoms  ,  anytime  a  new  one  comes  out  or  he  finds  one  they  haven’t  watched  together  ,  he  puts  it  on  excitedly  .

who  is  most  likely  to  feed  the  other  in  public  ?

both  ,  they’re  that  couple  .

who  gives  the  other  random  little  compliments  ?

paxton  ,  constantly  tells  her  how  beautiful  he  thinks  she  is  ,  how  perfect  he  thinks  she  is  ,  and  just  how  much  she  means  to  him  .

who  is  always  stealing  the  food  from  the  other’s  plate  ?

sierra  ,  typical  girlfriend  shenanigans  of  thinking  that  his  food  looks  better  and  just  taking  some  for  herself  .  

who  is  most  likely  to  let  the  other  borrow  their  car  ?

both  ,  pretty  self  explantory  .

who  makes  the  list  before  they  go  grocery  shopping  ?

sierra  ,  given  the  choice  paxton  would  literally  just  buy  junk  food  and  survive  off  of  that  ,  sierra  makes  him  buy  much  needed  staples  .

who  makes  sure  the  other  takes  their  meds  when  sick  ?

both  ,  they’re  both  equally  stubborn  and  super  busy  that  they  forget  to  take  their  meds  .

who  watches  sports  and  has  to  teach  the  other  the  rules  ?

paxton  ,  def  watches  the  sports  in  the  relationship  and  has  to  explain  to  sierra  the  rules  ,  without  a  doubt  .

who  pulls  the  other  to  their  feet  for  a  dance  in  the  living  room  ?

paxton  ,  especially  when  sierra  has  had  a  hard  day  ,  he  pulls  her  close  and  put  on  old  love  songs  and  sways  with  her  .

who  has  to  keep  reminding  the  other  to  hurry  up  or  they’ll  be  late  ?

sierra  ,  pax  will  literally  smother  her  with  kisses  and  almost  become  late  to  work  ,  and  no  matter  how  many  times  she  reminds  him  he  will  sit  there  with  her  mesmerized  .

who  is  the  one  most  likely  to  get  a  tattoo  with  the  other’s  name  ?

paxton  ,  has  def  offered  to  do  it  before  but  sierra  has  talked  him  out  of  it  because  she  thinks  it’s  tacky  .

who  cooks  meals  for  the  other  ?

sierra  ,  i  don’t  think  paxton  has  cooked  anything  a  day  in  his  life  ,  this  man  is  incompetent  .

who  spams  the  other  with  memes  ?

paxton  ,  a  majority  of  their  instagram  chat  is  def  just  paxton  sending  her  memes  he’s  found  on  his  explore  page  .

𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐈𝐑 𝐅𝐔𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄

𝑪𝑨𝑴𝑰𝑳𝑳𝑬 𝑲𝑰𝑴𝑩𝑬𝑹𝑳𝒀-𝑴𝑶𝑹𝑨

gender  :  female

general  appearance  : curly  dark  brown  hair  ,  dark  brown  eyes  , 5’7”  ,  &  a  deep dimple  on  her  left  cheek  .

personality  :  she's  optimistic  and  gracious  . of  course  she's  also  capable  ,  gentle  and  disciplined  . camille  has  less  pleasant  traits  too  .  her  narcissism  and  inconsideration  tend  to  get  in  the  way  even  at  the  best  of  times.

special  talents  : guitar  ! which  acts  as  an  escape  from  the  rambunctious  household

who  they  like  better  :  she  won’t  admit  it,  but  paxton  .  literally  glued  to  paxton’s  hip  but  claims  that  he  likes  them  both  the  same.

who  they  take  after  more  :  appearance  wise  ,  sierra  .  personality  wise  sierra  to  a  t  ,  they  tend  to  not  see  eye  to  eye  because  of  this  but  love  each  other  first  and  foremost  .

personal  headcanon:  when  sierra  was  pregnant  with  camille  ,  paxton  would  read  her  the  same  bedtime  story,  and  now  anytime  she  has  a  nightmare  she  asks  paxton  to  read  her  the  same  story  .

faceclaim  :  kiana  madiera  ,  insp.  insp.  insp.

𝑯𝑬𝑵𝑫𝑹𝑰𝑿 𝑲𝑰𝑴𝑩𝑬𝑹𝑳𝒀-𝑴𝑶𝑹𝑨

gender  :  male

general  appearance  :  short  tight  curly  hair,  dark  brown  eyes,  6′1″,  a  birthmark  on  his  hand,  &  a  small  scar  behind  his  ear  from  when  camille  scratched  him

personality  :  he's  focused  and  decisive  . of  course  he's  also  punctual  ,  open  and  curious  ,  but  those  are  often  overshadowed  by  tendencies  of  being  thoughtless  as  well. of  course  hendrix  has  plenty  of  character  faults  too  . his  unfriendliness  and  pretentiousness  are  far  from  ideal,  much  to  the  annoyance  of  others  .  

special  talents  :  film  making  !  extremely  talented,  had  an  obsession  with  directing  and  films  when  he  was  younger,  lowkey  a  pretentious  asshole,  but  he  pulls  it  off

who  they  like  better  :  sierra,  because  she  tends  to  be  more  honest  with  her  criticism  of  his  films,  but  also  because  he  models  a  lot  of  himself  after  her  .

who they take after more  :  appearance  wise  ,  he  takes  after  sierra  . personality  wise,  he  tends  to  take  after  both  paxton  and  sierra  ,  because  honestly  just  desperate  to  make  both  his  parents  proud.

personal  headcanon  :  he  has  been  in  a  bunch  of  different  film  festivals,  and  even  though  paxton  has  offered  to  help  pay  for  actors,  he  uses  his  family  and  friends  as  actors  instead

faceclaim  :  jordan  fisher  ,  insp.  insp.  insp.

[tabbycasto]

The Purge (Cruelty Free dupes for makeup artists & enthusiasts) Round 3

Here’s another round of makeup that I’ve managed to find suitable cruelty free alternatives to. If you’re looking to go cruelty free and want to find some great dupes check out my other two posts with more swap overs Here (Post 1) and Here (Post 2).  Although I’m not 100% cruelty free yet I’m looking into alternatives and these are products that I’ve tried on both myself and in a professional capacity. I’ll continue to share these as I switch my kit : 

The Mascaras 

[Photography Charlotte Rutherford for Bullet Magazine]

Saying goodbye to all the Mac mascaras that I used and loved and moving over to several new brands. Lets start with Pixi! Absolutely love their Black Waterproof Mascara. If you are London based they have a shop in Covent Garden and I would 100% recommend popping in as the shop is generally quite a  calm shopping experience and the staff are always available to help with questions. Illamasqua Gain Mascara is also a really nice dupe as it’s full coverage black and does the job. Both Pixi and Illamasqua have makeup artist pro programs as well. If you’re not around those shops you can check out Elf Cosmetics on the hughstreet at your local Superdrug. Good value for money. I recommend the Plump It Up Mascara. 

The Setting Spray/Face Mist

[Photography Sophie Ellen / Hair Alaister Jubbs at Vae Hair]

Letting go of Mac Fix + was one of those things I didn’t think I’d be able to do. It was a kit staple for years and I had never found a contender that worked quite as well as it did... until I was introduced to Jane Iredale! Not only did I find a contender but the Jane Iredale Face Mists are also organic and smell AMAZING AND they have a range of sprays for different needs (oily skin, hydrating etc) I personally love their Pommist which has Pomegranate extract in it. Check them out here . Makeup artist note Jane Iredale ALSO shave a pro programme available. 

The Brow Pencils

[Photography Fabiana Delcanton]

For a makeup artist, brows are IMPORTANT. Whether they’re brushed up with clear gel, structured with pencil or just given a little bit more of an arch, its rare that a makeup artist wouldn’t have a huge range of brow products in their kit. I’ve found loads of brow pencil alternatives both high end and on the high street since I started to switch my kit. I’m saying goodbye to Mac Lingering , Spiked and Fling and replacing these with the bargain price Elf range which works a treat and for those interested in organic makeup - check out Jane Iredale’s - they have recently  updated their colour range as well. In terms of a softer pencil replacements I’d highly recommend the Barry M range! The colours are long lasting and they blend into the brow really well. I like that they come with a little comb on the end as well. 

The Eyeshadow Stick

Goodbye Mac Shadesticks (to be fair these are discontinued now and needed to go!) If you’re looking for everyday wear shades like subtle browns and nudes head to your local Superdrug and check out  Elf No Budge Shadow Stick + Gosh Cosmetics Forever Eye Shadow Stick! They don’t crease throughout the day and work beautifully under eyeshadows as a primer. If you’re looking for something with a brighter colour pop shout out to 3ina who have a fab range of bright coloured stick shadows as well! 

The Face Primer

Okay this is a bit of a funny one because I actually have a range of face primers for different things. However the one I used to use THE MOST was this Smashbox Photo Finish Primer which worked a treat for editorial jobs. I’m switching it up for this fantastic but rather wobbly Illamasqua Hydra Veil Primer. It comes in a little pot and when you put it on the skin it has a really fresh and cooling sensation that clients/models LOVE.

Part hydrator, part primer, Hydra Veil instantly hydrates and smooths skin through a self-levelling, futuristic clear gel

 Microalgae, Vitamin C and B3 work together to help maintain skins hydration levels, creating a healthy looking, balanced finish

Plant extracts also provide a calming and refreshing feeling, leaving skin fully prepped to apply your chosen foundation.

 The Matte Face Primer

Another skincare product I’m leaving behind is this Mac Matte Primer. I used to use this for a lot of male grooming jobs and on clients with really oily skin. I’ve found an organic alternative in Jane Iredale’s Absence Oil Control Primer.  

Reduces sebaceous hypersecretion with Hydrated Silica and also helps to regulate the pH balance of the skin; however, it does not affect the skin’s moisture, only the oil ( the interaction of oil and make-up is one of the principal causes of color change.)

 Smoothes the appearance of pores and fine lines. 

Calms and soothes. Reduces redness. 

Key Ingredients include Hydrated Silica which holds seven times its molecular weight in moisture. 

 Green Tea Leaf Extract Calms. Protects. Provides bacterial protection.

The Matte Contouring Palette / Bronzer 

[Photography Mateus Sitek, Hair KT Girl Hair for Revs Magazine]

Goodbye Mac Matte Bronzer and hello Jane Iredale Contouring Palette’s. I love this swap over as Jane Iredale make both a warm and a cool palette with three shades in each (a bronzer, a blusher and a highlighter). 

The Matte Eyebrow Palette 

[Photography Mateusz Sitek]

A good mate eyebrow palette for me is essential. I rarely am without one on jobs because if I get one of those “no makeup makeup” requests, I like to make life harder on myself and still pop a little eyeshadow on! I had some kit favourites such as Mac Wedge and Embark eyeshadow but moving forward I’ve found this lovely Tarte Cosmetic Tartelette Amazonian Clay Matte Palette which has a good range of softer colours , highlights and also deeper tones too. This brand IS now in the UK and you can find them here . 

The White Foundation 

[Photography Mateusz Sitek]

If you’re not a makeup artist you might be looking at this and thinking ??? WHITE FOUNDATION. Yes white foundation my friends. Makeup artists... you know! This is a KIT STAPLE - in order to effectively mix shades of foundation  together I used to always trust my Mac White Face & Body Foundation, but these days I’m using Illamasqua who have the perfect cruelty free dupes. They do a sheerer white foundation in the form of their Skin Base SB01 or a much fuller coverage *also this is great for Halloween or period makeup* Rich Liquid Foundation. I like options. I’m loving Illamasqua for this! 

The Cream Blusher

[Mote Paper Magazine Outtake shot by Joanna W]

Again another really easy product to swap over. Their are LOADS of brands doing gorgoeus cream blushers. I used to have a variety of non cruelty free cream blushers decanted in a little travel size box but I’ve not swapped these over for Glossier Cloud Paint. Great colour choices. SUPER CUTE packaging and of course like all these swap overs ... cruelty free 

More to follow as my kit transforms. Please feel free to drop me a comment or message if you have any exciting cruelty free product dupes you’d like to share ! I’m always on the look out for new brands which offer great alternatives. 

[lipstick-lust]

Best Skin Care 2017

Makeup Remover

 Glossier Milky Jelly is my go-to product. I use it year round. It’s not oil based so it’s safe to use with tinted brows/lashes and extensions. Honorable Mention: Tatcha Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil

Face Wash

Day: Drunk Elephant Juju Bars has become a staple in my routine. I use it every morning. It’s super simple since it’s a bar. It also lasts forever. One bar will last me 4-6 months.

Night: CeraVe Foaming Face Wash is amazing. If I’m using my Clarisonic or my Luna it’s the perfect amount of foaming. It doesn’t strip my face and leaves my skin super clean.

Mask

Clay: GlamGlow SuperMud. I fell in love with this mask. It really helped my skin out when I was breaking out. The mask really exfoliates well too. Honorable Mention: Clinique City Block Purifying Charcoal Clay Mask + Scrub

Hydrating: Kiehl’s Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Mask. This is fairly new to my collection. The name is exactly what the mask does for my skin. It’s soothing to my redness and hydrating. My skin tends t get dehydrated in the winter and this has been a life saver. Honorable Mention: Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask

Exfoliator

Physical: Colleen Rothschild Dual Enzyme Polish is another oldie but goodie. Whenever my skin feels dull I use this in the shower and my skin looks more radiant. Honorable Mention: Dermalogica Daily Superfoliant

Chemical: Colleen Rothschild Mandelic Acid Radiance Serum is a new product from her line. I got a sample in an order and never tried it. Then one day while I was out of my Drunk Elephant TLC and my skin was looking dull I tried this. I immediately bought it the nest day. It’s more gentle, I can use it every day. It’s not as sticky too. Honorable Mention: Drunk Elephant TLC

Toner/Essence

Tatcha The Essence Plumping Skin Softener is life changing. I can tell my skin is softer and more hydrated. note!! Use 1-3 drops in your hand, not a cotton round. I’ve been using a cotton round and I’m going through it too fast. 

Serum

Hydrate: Jordan Samuel Hydrate was a new brand for me. I love the Hydrate serum. It’s gentle, not sticky, and perfectly hydrating. I use this one before chemical exfoliators.  

Vitamin C: Glossier Super Glow is my new favorite. I love Drunk Elephant C-Firma, don’t get me wrong. But my skin has been looking pretty good and I don’t need something as aggressive. I like it more because it’s more lightweight. Perfect for summer and during the day. Honorable mention: Drunk Elephant C-Firma

Acne: Glossier Super Pure is my 1 serum I use every single day. I use it in the morning.

Moisturizer

Summer: Drunk Elephant B-Hydra is my favorite moisturizer ever. If you have oily skin you need this.

Winter: Tatcha The Water Cream is life changing. Since my skin gets dehydrated in the winter I need something very hydrating but lightweight. I can use this day and night without getting super oily. 

Eye Cream

Glossier Priming Moisturizer Rich is technically a moisturizer but I use it as an eye cream. It helps moisturize and I’ve noticed under my eyes looks smoother. I will also use this as an eye mask (winter) and neck cream.

Lip Balm

Ulta Lip Oil... I’ve gone through 3-4 of these. I use one ever single morning. If you’re a Jan-March birthday it’s also the bday gift for Ulta this year! 

[jennmapp]

My Top 10 Summer 2018 Essentials

The Hot List

Can you believe it's already mid-July? 

Between launching my first book - Clothes the Deal: The Guide For Transformative Personal Style - and leaving my job to start a closet coaching business, traveling for clients, styling Author Incubator Red Carpet launches, an overnight wedding, more than a few parties and plenty of family travel -  summer 2018 has been especially swift.

All that activity has provided a lot of practice styling, packing, repacking and refining my summer outfit skills all while staying true to core philosophy: Less = more, grooming is paramount and self care key.

Here are my top 10 hacks to help you do just that. 

My Top 10 Summer 2018 Essentials 

#1 Strapless Bra Alternative:

Ladies. I cannot say enough about the life changing magic of Bring It Up Breast Shapers (known as "Sticky Boobies" in my house). I've been a fan of adhesive bras for years but since I discovered this product in March, Bring It Up Breast Shapers have officially replaced Nu Bra as my go to solution under tank tops, spaghetti straps and strapless tops and dresses. I recommend them to all my clients and am currently waiting for my 4th set to arrive from Amazon. You can re-use a pair up to 25 times with proper maintenance (or in my case, no maintenance) and the manufacturer claims they can hold their own on bra sizes up to 36-38 DDD.

#2 Easy Outfit Formula: Madewell Audio Tank Top + Madewell Pull On Shorts

In May I bought a Madewell Audio Tank in ripe persimmon (orangish red) and a pair of Madewell Pull On Shorts in army green and was so pleased with the fit of this combo that I bought another tank in ivory and two more pairs of pull on shorts in black and chambray. My beach trip last week confirmed that this easy to accessorize, easy to wear combo is the perfect summer outfit formula. With three more family vacays to go between now and Labor Day, you will definitely see plenty more variations of this look.

#3 Ultimate Add A Layer: Subtle Luxury Pool to Party Kimono

Summer is all about lightweight, double duty outfit solutions. The name of this Pool to Party Kimono by Subtle Luxury says it all. I've worn this (multiple times) over the Madewell relaxed casual outfit formula above as a going out outfit and over my actual bathing suit at the beach and pool. It's light, luxurious and, at now on sale for $29.99, looks a lot more expensive than the price tag.

#4 Perfect Pop: Organic Hoops + Layering Necklace + Novelty Ring

The lightweight theme continues with this gold tone accessory combination that seems to work with every summer outfit: ADMK organic double hoop earrings (from Covet Boutique in Arlington, VA), Madewell layering necklace (gifted from client), Madewell Looker ring and a gold hammered cuff (gifted from client).

I love how this delicate costume vignette layers beautifully over my forever jewelry and is still light enough to support bolder pieces like my Hermes cuff and still not feel like I'm wearing 100 different accessories.

#5 Forget Flops: Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor T-Strap Sandals

Admittedly, I was the first person to bemoan the return of this ubiquitous '90s norm core sandal.

I was wrong: Birks are life.

Now my feet cringe at the sight of an arch enemy flip flop and with this pair in trend forward metallic leather (mine are rose gold) I am hard pressed to find a reason not to wear them ALL OF THE TIME. 

#6 Fake Tan Plan: Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette Plus + Body Glow BB Cream

My secret to not looking like a city girl at the beach - Tan Towel. In the week leading up to any skin bearing activity, I run a Tan Towel self tanning towelette over dry, clean skin once a day, followed by a generous serving of Tan Towel Body Glow BB Cream (which smells amazing, if you can believe it). Literally everyone asks where I got my tan. Like, literally, everyone.

Just don't forget to wash your hands.

#7 Impact Sandal: Cecelia New York Hibiscus Sandal

I love nothing more than a statement neutral and nothing says summer like a huge flower on your foot. When I am not in my Birkenstocks, I am finding a reason to wear these beautiful shoes by Cecelia New York. If nude isn't your thing, they also come in pink and snakeskin. Worth every penny.

 #8 Lash Blast: Rodan + Fields Lash Boost + Glossier Lash Slick Mascara

With pool plunges, humidity and lots of travel, summer begs for a lighter makeup bag. My solution? Focus on lashes. Initially I was incredulous about R+F Lash Boost but after asking so many girlfriends how their lashes got so long I invested in a tube (and yes, at $150, it is an investment). After two weeks my eye lashes were noticeably longer and now, four months in, all I need is a quick swipe of super natural Glossier Lash Slick (also recommended by a client) for a luscious lash look that doesn't need a lot of extra makeup.

#9 Cannabidiol Calm: Charlotte's Web Hemp Extract Oil

This summer I left a stable career of 16 years to risk the house on a capsule wardrobe coaching dream. Chill #AF? Um, no. But after I heard about the calming benefits of CBD oil on That's So Retrograde (one of my favorite podcasts), I bought a bottle and was delighted to discover a few drops of Charlotte's Web Hemp Extract Oil under the tongue 2-3 times a day really does calm my nerves - and it's amazing for cramps, restful sleep and gracefully flying cross country with two children under six. And yes, it's 100% legal.

#10 Sun Savvy: Rodan + Fields Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen

Last but not least - the best beauty advice I ever followed was printed in Allure Magazine in early 2001 - if you want to look younger and live longer, wear SPF 30+ religiously every single day, regardless of weather or season. Almost two decades later I've amped my minimal coverage to SPF 50 and keep a bottle of Rodan + Fields Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen in my beach bag for frequent re-applications. 

What's In Your Beach Bag, Baby?

Share your summer staples (or just stop by to peep my daily FB lives and capsule fashion inspo) on the Tiny Closet Survival Guide Facebook Group. 

Looking for an easy digital beach read guaranteed to change your perspective on what it takes to cement personal style? Download a free copy of my new book Clothes the Deal: The Guide For Transformative Personal Style. Can't wait to hear what you think!

Be the Bright!

xoxo

Jenn

[gothify1]

I don't think there's a certain way one is "supposed to" look or feel in their 30s . I know that aging is a part of life that we all experience, but that doesn't mean that I can't amp up my beauty routine as I progress through life. Some embrace the signs of aging; I've chosen to fight them in the most noninvasive ways that I can for now. Truth be told, I have always looked young for my age. (Just an example: When I was 11, I was being cast as 7-year-olds in plays.) Even now, at 35 years old, I get carded from time to time and get a lot of comments from strangers about not looking my age when I share it. I like to think that my current skincare routine has something to do with that—at least I hope so, given the amount of time and money I spend on it. (It's worth noting that something I don't often spend money on is facials—I prefer to invest in products I can use again and again). As you know, one of the most important things you can do to offset aging is to avoid the sun, which I've always done (save for a few of my teenage years…). I wear sunscreen every single day, and if you don't, it's definitely never too late to start. Aside from that, read for the details of my daily beauty routine from morning to night, including makeup, and shop the products I swear by (like my holy-grail sunscreen). I don't get enough sleep, and my morning routine is usually pretty rushed, so I focus on trying to fake looking awake and protecting my skin from the elements. I know the price seems high for a face wash, but I've been using this for years, and it's worth it. It's mildly exfoliating and never leaves my dry skin feeling tight. You've probably heard how important vitamin C—and the antioxidants that come along with it—and ferulic acid are for your skin, so I always start with this. It has a subtle brightening effect, but I mostly use it for the damage-prevention factor. I love a serum, and this one has so much good stuff in it. And it absorbs instantly, making it a great option for busy mornings. If you're just starting to use anti-aging products, this is a great place to start. I shake a bit of this into the above serum before applying, and the skin-brightening effects are truly instant. You can shake it into any product, so it's completely error-proof. Plus, antioxidants! This is the product on this list I've been using the longest by far. It applies like a beautiful lightweight moisturizer and has zero scent. Plus, the SPF is very high, but it doesn't leave a white cast. I've re-bought it countless times over the years. Can't forget about the sensitive eye area. This cream is very light and sinks right in. I apply it right after my sunscreen. Bonus: It helps combat the signs of aging. I don't know about you, but my eyes can be very red when I wake up (might have something to do with only getting six hours of sleep). I put one drop of this in each eye, and they're perfectly white and clear in seconds. Plus, it doesn't burn. Not sure how I ever lived without it. I don't really leave the house without makeup on, but I definitely don't wear a lot of it. I find that heavy, dramatic makeup is aging on me, so I keep things fresh and light with the focus being on rosy cheeks and dewy skin. I don't know how they do it, but this provides great coverage yet stays really sheer. I can't stand heavy foundation, and this one is light and applies beautifully. I mix a drop of this serum with my foundation for a little bit of a bronze glow (which I need thanks to that SPF 46). I'd use it even if it didn't have anti-pollution antioxidants, so it's a big added bonus that it does. This just-released color corrector has already become a staple in my makeup routine (because six hours of sleep). I apply it before my concealer, and my dark circles are basically gone. You've probably heard the rave reviews about this cult-favorite concealer. Well, they're all true, and I'll never stop buying it. Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Yep. This stuff is magic when it comes to hiding imperfections, and it blends so well. Plus, my last tube lasted a good two to three years, so there's that. I always struggle with finding a pressed setting powder that doesn't look chalky. I started using this one a few months ago, and it's nice and sheer and natural, just how I like it. I love cream blushes and find them to be more youthful and dewier (obviously) than their powder counterparts. Kosas really excels at them, and I love the pretty complementary highlighter it's paired with. I love light, shimmery eye color, and this one is perfection. It's nice and light but has just enough pigment. I always apply a bit at my lower lash line, too, to brighten things up. I've tried a lot of the other cult eyelash curlers, and everyone has their favorite, but this one is the best. You can quote me. Dramatic mascaras and all their clumpy-lash outcomes are not for me. Glossier Lash Slick is my ride-or-die, as it doesn't clump or smudge and makes lashes look impossibly long. I find black eyeliner to be aging, so brown it is for me. This one is nice and rich and applies easily (which is great for me since I'm terrible at applying eyeliner). If you like a nice fluffy brow that's just the tiniest bit polished, you must try this. (Take a look at the Sephora reviews if you want further proof.) It also comes in six shades, so finding one that will look natural on you is a cinch. I've been through multiple tubes of Dior Lip Glow, and I never get tired of it. It has the perfect hint of color and actually stays on even though it feels like a balm. The focus of my evening routine is on anti-aging and repairing. I have dry skin, so I stay away from anything too harsh, but I've found that my skin can handle more acids and exfoliants as I get older. That said, I've had to find alternatives to strong retinols, as they're much too drying for me. This is my go-to evening cleanser, as it foams up really nicely, and I feel that it takes the day off. And like my morning cleanser, it doesn't leave my skin with that dreaded tight feeling. Plus, you can get it at the drugstore or on Amazon. TG for Shani Darden and her gentle retinol products (including Retinol Reform, which I also love). It's the only form of retinol I've been able to use that doesn't make my skin red and flaky, and the results are really noticeable. My lines are undoubtedly softer since I started using it. Speaking of Shani Darden, this is the perfect lightweight moisturizer. I often apply it over the retinol (or other strong products) when my skin is feeling parched. A few nights a week, I use this Versed miracle worker, and I wake up with a nice glow whenever I do. It works just as well as (if not better than) its pricier counterparts. It gently removes dead skin cells while hydrating. Genius. I honestly don't know how or why this serum works, but the second I put it on, my skin is instantly brighter and "glowy." It's a little pricey to use every night, but goals. Plus, it smells AMAZING. Shaba Complex is really gentle—so much so that you can put it on your eyelids. Just reading the description of this convinced me, and so far, I'm happy with the results: "A satiny eye serum formulated with a powerhouse of ingredients to tackle the major signs of aging under and around the eyes such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage for a rested, more youthful appearance." I think full brows can really be effective in achieving that youthful look, so I've been investing in Revitabrow for years. It works like no other. This is very hydrating, stays on, and isn't sticky, all of which are requirements for me in a nighttime lip balm. I also love the yummy coconut smell. Not the prettiest tube but definitely the best hand cream I've ever tried. I wash my hands a lot, and they're one of the first things to show age, so I'll use whatever works. And this works. Below are a few products that I don't use every night but that I always have on hand and highly recommend. This cream is rich, but in the winter and post-travel, it's what my skin craves. It really plumps the skin, and when I apply it before bed, my dry patches are gone by morning. Heads-up: Tatcha's Friends and Family Sale (20% off sitewide!) starts tomorrow, October 13, and goes through October 20. Sounds like a good time to stock up. This is one of the first skincare products I invested in years ago, and I still use it to this day. It's the perfect exfoliant, in my opinion. It really gets the job done without being harsh and drying. This is my favorite mask to use before a special occasion or just when my skin looks particularly dull and needs tightening up. It only takes 10 minutes to work its magic, and as the description states, it will leave you with baby-soft skin. Like I've said many times throughout this story, I love glow-inducing products, and this is one of my favorites. I use it about once a week under my moisturizer for gentle exfoliation and brightening. In case you want even more of my beauty insight, here are the 14 beauty products I never pack when I travel (and 21 I do) .

[sackface93]

8 Cruelty-Free Beauty Products I Currently Use, & Whether Each Was Worth The Money

In 2015, I decided to begin transitioning to a cruelty-free lifestyle as much as possible. I began with my skincare and beauty routine. I have very sensitive skin — I’m talking allergic-to-most-sunscreens ( looking at you, titanium dioxide) -and-foundations sensitive. Over the years I’ve been able to pinpoint some of the ingredients which tend to irritate my skin and that alone has limited the number of products I have been able to use. When I decided to go cruelty-free, I did it for ethical reasons but also because I wanted to be more mindful of the products I put on my body as a result of my sensitive skin.

I have since experimented with quite a bit of cruelty-free makeup and have pared down my everyday routine. It may be important to note that I work in a pretty relaxed and business-casual environment, and I prefer a makeup look that is glowy and minimal and showcases my many freckles. This may not be your preferred look. I know that many of these products seem like a splurge, but it can be difficult for me to find products that work with my finicky skin. Below are the products that are currently in my makeup bag and my thoughts on each.

1. Milk Makeup Sunshine Skin Tint SPF 30 – $42

I’ve purchased two of these in the last year and love how easy it is to apply with the glass rollerball. For everyday life, I have a more slapdash approach to makeup, especially with any base. Some days, if my skin is especially luminous, I’ll forgo this and just dab concealer where needed. I find it doesn’t always last all day depending on the weather, and I’m on the fence on if I may stray to another tinted moisturizer-like product with a smaller price tag.

2. Glossier Stretch Concealer in Medium – $18

I absolutely love this concealer as it is creamy in texture and goes on so well when applying with fingers. If I’m doing a more clean-and-precise look, I’ll use some Glossier Wowder ($22) to set, but I can’t say I reach for Wowder every day like I do everything else. As previously mentioned, sometimes I skip a base and go directly for concealer, and I find that this does a pretty good job of staying put most of the workday.

3. Glossier Lidstar Duo (Cub and Fawn) – $30

I can safely say I’m meh about products that they don’t really have any staying power. I won’t repurchase this product, but I will continue to use it until I’ve finished it. I think I’d prefer something with a little more staying power and more bang for its buck.

4. E.L.F. Shadow Lock Eyelid Primer – $2

A cheap and cruelty-free staple. It dries down quickly and holds shadows in place. I have not noticed too much creasing with this product and is a steal for the price.

5. Glossier Boy Brow and Haloscope Duo – $30

I’ll be honest — you’re seeing a lot of Glossier products because I went on a Glossier shopping spree after a recent career shift and bump in salary. I was also woefully low on everyday essentials. It also helped that I was able to utilize 15% at the time of purchase. Boy brow is lovely and not too overpowering or fake-looking on my already thick brows. Haloscope is another lovely addition I intend to keep in my rotation, as it’s dewy and hydrating but subtle.

6. Milk Lip + Cheek Stain in Werk – $24

What I was really looking for in this product was a product with multiple uses and that didn’t have any shimmer as I personally don’t feel comfortable wearing it to work. I use this as a blush, lip balm, and eyeshadow for a monochromatic and quick look. It is very hydrating and I’ve found some cheek stains irritate my sensitive skin while I’ve had no problem with this product.

7. Glossier Lash Slick Mascara – $16

My personal holy grail mascara!! I have stick straight lashes that have difficulty holding a curl. This beauty keeps my lashes curled and I notice I no longer suffer from panda eyes after a long day.

8. Pixi Endless Brow Gel Pen – $11

When I want a bolder brow, I reach for this product. Its gel consistency is great for my sometimes-unruly brows and the color match for the medium shade works really well with me.

Total Cost: $173 

When I think about how often I utilize my makeup products and the rate in which they tend to last me, it still feels like a lot of money. Aside from my foundation and mascara, I have yet to replace any of my existing products in the last seven months. As advised by the makeup gods, I do try to replace my mascara every three months. I’m still trying to find some more cost-effective and sensitive-skin friendly options. I have to say that I do enjoy having the peace of mind of knowing I can complete my makeup for work in record time and that it’s curated to meet my needs.

Adelaide writes under a pen name and resides in Chicago, IL with her dog Lucy. When she’s not writing or working as a Social Worker she enjoys cooking/baking, yoga and hunting down local coffee shops that can make a great Cafe con Leche. She can be found daydreaming of music, traveling and eventually learning how to properly dance Salsa and Merengue.

Image via Unsplash

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Source: https://thefinancialdiet.com/8-cruelty-free-beauty-products-i-currently-use-whether-each-was-worth-the-money/

[theprettiestshit]

The Best Beauty Pick's Of 2016

Happy New Year Beauties!! 

I know that usually when a new year comes along we think “Out with the old, In with the new” but in this case I’m listing products that were way too good to me in 2016 that I refuse to let them go. They have become the new classics for me. 

Yes, I know every blogger and their dog did a “Best of 2016” post (and yes I watched and read just about each every one of them) so I decided to change it up a tad bit and picked the 17 best products that I fell in absolute love with in the past year that I plan on keeping them on the top shelf for the new year. I’m so excited to add to theseloved products in 2017. 

 Note: I fell in love with so many products in the past year and it wasn’t easy to narrow the list down to 17 but I GOT IT DONE Honey! *snaps in Z formation* Also there are ALOT of Glossier products here. It's safe to say they were the brand of the year. 

17. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in “Radiant Magenta” has become my go to blush for the past 6 months. I use it quite often and I have yet to make a dent in it, meaning you get a lot of bang for your buck.

 16. Urban Decay All Nighter Foundation: Great Full Coverage for a night out with the girls without looking like cake

15. Elizabeth and James NIRVANA BLACK Dry Shampoo. Leaves your hair with Cool Girl effortless texture and smells absolutely sexy.

14. Kylie Cosmetics: The Burgundy Palette is the perfect warm, neutral palette with superb pigmentation. I love the matte shades especially!! 

13. NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer: The Perfect Dewy, Everyday Base for the minimalist girl on-the-go.

12. Dior Addict Lip Glow: I recently got this and HAVE NOT STOPPED USING IT!! So Damn Good, and very moisturizing!! Makes my lips look lush. 

   11. Dr Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Lavender Pure Castile Soap:  I’ve recently made the smart choice of switching to Pure Castile Soap. Best choice I’ve made in a really long time. My skin is improving everyday and this soap makes me feel squeaky clean and baby smooth. This scent is by far my favorite. 

10. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray: REVIVES MY HAIR and gives beautiful texture without the gross grit that sometimes Dry Shampoo tends to leave.

9. GLAMGLOW FLASHMUD Brightening Treatment: This has been a godsend. When my skin goes off course I take a three day skin detox by using this mask and getting rid of any impurities and brighting my dull tired skin from intense and long workdays.

8.Glossier: Black Tie Set is THE best set I’ve come across. I am obsessed with the polish in Glossier’s signature Pale Pink and the 3 other products in the set (Graphite Liner, Gloss and Haloscope Highlighter in Moonstone) are always in my makeup back. Great everyday products for a fresh, glowing minimal look. 

7. Ouai Matte Pomade has been the most badass bestie for my layered chop. Also tames my baby hurrs to perfection.  

6. Glossier BOY BROW… YOUTHFUL, FULL, NATURAL in a tube!!!

5. CHANEL Soleil Tan De Chanel: I’m not much of a contour gal, but I do a LITTLE SOMETHING SOMETHING by blending this light cream bronzer across my forehead, towards my temples and in the hollows of my cheeks. PLUS IT LASTS FOREVER!!!!!

4. NATASHA DENONA EVEYSHADOW PALETTE 5 (Shade #4) HANDS DOWN THE BEST FORMULA OF EYESHADOWS I’VE EVER COME ACROSS. The Pigmentation and Shimmer is INTENSE, like no other. They are so creamy for powder shadows and incredibly blendable. Seriously, This can’t be REAL LIFE. THESE SHADOWS ALSO DOUBLE AS A GORGEOUS HIGHLIGHTER!!  I need more!!!

  3. Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask: So Moisturizing and has been clutch this Fall/ Winter Season!! It is now a STAPLE in my skincare routine. The smooth sidekick to … #2 on this list.

  2. Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack aka The most gentle Vacuum Cleaner for your face. Cannot live without it (Mariah Carey’s Without You” plays in the background) A green juice for your skin. This mask has changed my skin & my life. This Mask is my Batman.

  1. Ouai Hair Oil. This Multitask Oil has been the best thing to happen to my hair other than my stylist Sondriel. This super lightweight Multitasking oil has been keeping my hair rebellious healthy and smelling like a F’ing bouquet. I’m on bottle number 4 and cannot recommend this enough. It has been my ace. 

[lovelindanguyen]

My favorite product from Glossier

Emily Weiss

Remember back in the day when Emily Weiss, was on the show called The Hills as a Teen Vogue “super intern?” No? Okay. But let me tell you who this '“super intern” is. Emily Weiss has worked her way from being a Teen Vogue intern that appeared on the show called The Hills to being the founder and CEO of the cult-favorite beauty brand called Glossier. YES. GLOSSIER!

How I Discovered Glossier

I discovered Glossier by accident when I was trying to find a new facial cleanser because I was tired of the one I was using, which was a cheap one from a drug store. Ugh. I know. I shouldn’t have.

With trying to find a new facial cleanser, it was extremely difficult because there’s so many out there! How do I choose JUST ONE? I wanted to find a facial cleanser that was still cheap - because I’m a broke graduate student - and something that was effective to cleaning my skin while conditioning it at the same time.

I believe I typed something on Google’s search engine that said, “Facial cleanser. Lazy. Removes make up. Cheap.” Even though these are not the best way to find a facial cleanser, it worked because this was the moment I accidentally discovered Glossier’s Milk Jelly Cleanser. At first, I was thinking, “A jelly cleanser? That sounds so messy.” But this was the facial cleanser I needed in my life.

About the Milk Jelly Cleanser

Glossier describes the Milk Jelly Cleanser as the “one face wash to rule them all.” And they are not wrong.

Description:

“This is the ultimate daily face wash: use on dry skin to dissolve away makeup and grime, or on wet skin as you start your day. The pH-balanced, creamy gel formula is made with a blend of five skin conditioners so your face is left feeling healthy and soft, never tight. Its cleansing power comes from the same gentle cleaning agents found in contact lens solution, so it’s tough on impurities and still safe to use on your eyes. You’ll see.”

Key Ingredients:

“Poloxamer - A strong yet mild cleansing agent used in contact lens solution.

Rosewater - We replaced 1/4 of the H2O content with soothing rosewater (bonus: smells great!).

Comfrey Root Extract - Contains allantoin, which heals dry, stressed skin.

Aquaxyl - Refills skin’s water reserves and improves its barrier to prevent dehydration.

Pro-Vitamin B5 - Powerful, natural moisturizer found in mushrooms and cheese.”

Why It’s My Favorite

What I love most about the Milk Jelly Cleanser is that it is able to remove make up! I apply about two to three pumps of the milk jelly cleanser into the palm of my hand and massage it on my face. It melts away EVERYTHING including my foundation, cloud paint (another Glossier favorite), powder, eyeliner and mascara.

When I first tried this product, I was amazed that my eyes didn’t burn when I was removing my eyeliner and mascara. I was crying and it was a mixture of happiness tears, the milk jelly cleanser, and my mascara.

Customer Review from Vanessa

I had used many cleansers in my past but none like the Milky Jelly Cleanser. I really love the faint rose scent and the consistency. I like that it's super easy to wash off unlike many other heavier/foamier formulas and it does an amazing job of removing makeup without stripping skin of its oils. I've been using this product for a year almost and it has become a definite staple in my skincare routine!

Follow Them on Twitter

Another reason to love Glossier is that their Twitter feed is hilarious. Check out some of their tweets below.

#twitter-widget-0{width:760px;}

Saturday 📷: <<a href="https://t.co/85UnS4cLuH">https://t.co/85UnS4cLuH pic.twitter.com/5G0EUHsgje

— Glossier (@glossier)

December 1, 2018

20% off starts right now 📲 Go go go 🏃‍♀️ https://t.co/8oDSvfzLDv + in store, through Monday pic.twitter.com/a5iHWjROn4

— Glossier (@glossier)

November 23, 2018

.@enthahotness 🙃 pic.twitter.com/GcAYEUVmX4

— Glossier (@glossier)

November 25, 2018

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I wear blush now and three other face products I’m currently into.

Summer is over, autumn is here, and I am relishing in the joy of yanking out my long lost jumpers from the back of the wardrobe. Not to get all pumpkin-spiced-Pinterest on you, but I do love autumn. It’s the season of fresh starts, like new year 2.0. Whether you’re back to school, back to work, or maybe just back to reality after an abnormally long time not wearing a jacket, it’s the time of the year for re-grounding ourselves and I always find it so comforting.

This autumn will most certainly be filled with fresh starts for me as I begin my Master’s later this month, bringing with it a move to the big smoke. I’m incredibly excited about moving to London, though I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous as well. I’m definitely drawn to big towns and cities as there’s so much going on, I think it helps me come out of my shell, lest I shut myself away indoors playing Roller Coaster Tycoon and trying to come up with funny tweets about sauvignon blanc. But it’s definitely pretty daunting as well. As familiar as I am with London, I can’t see myself being a Londoner just yet. Maybe ask me how I’m doing in five months and see if I respond with some witty remark about the Northern line and have strongly formed opinions about various boroughs I’m not living in.

Not to be that person, but I also can’t believe we’re already this far through the year. The build-up to leaving work created a kind of vacuum in which I was neither here nor there for a good few months, and September has just appeared, as it so often tends to once a year, and I’m left here thinking back to what has been a pretty great eight months.

Of course, none of this has anything to do with makeup, but hey, it’s been a few months since I wrote anything and I fancied a chat. I could pretend there’s a link between fresh start and fresh face but I can’t bring myself to do it. Let’s just agree it’s been nice to catch up, and if you do want to know what makeup I’m decorating my face with, well you’re in luck.

There are a few face products I’ve been using this year that have become staples in my daily makeup routine, and I realised only recently that it’s probably the longest I’ve gone without switching something up. It’s all about lightweight, easy to apply but reliable products, and each of these fulfils that criteria. Moving into the cooler months, my makeup tends to transition to a more weather-appropriate line-up, but honestly, I feel each of these are versatile enough to be used throughout the year. If there are four makeup products I could recommend to you right now, this would be them.

—

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser.

I’ve always preferred tinted moisturisers over foundation for their light, natural coverage. There are a few I go back to, but this was a surprising new find for me. The finish is a soft, velvety matte, which I’ve not seen in a tinted moisturiser before. The oil-free formula means there’s little need to touch up with powder throughout the day, but note this only offers very sheer coverage. Doubling up as a skincare wonder, this tinted moisturiser also hydrates, provides SPF protection and (supposedly) helps reduce hyperpigmentation.

Glossier Cloud Paint in Dusk.

Blush was not part of my beauty vocabulary until about a year ago. I convinced myself this was not a product I could pull off, that it made me look too dolled-up, but finding Glossier’s Cloud Paint has completely changed that. It’s a lightweight cream blush, but with a texture more like foundation than cream. It blends flawlessly, and Dusk has a natural, earthy undertone that makes it subtle yet buildable. I blend this in from the apples of my cheeks all the way out up my cheekbone and a little on my nose (because Emily Ratajkowski does it like that and she looks alright).

NARS Laguna Liquid Bronzer.

It goes without saying that NARS Laguna is one of the most well-known bronzers on the market. I was therefore very intrigued to see it also exists in a liquid formula (I much prefer cream/liquid products for a natural look). This multi-use bronzing fluid is sheer and light, so can be used to contour and bronze, or can be mixed in with foundation for an allover glow, which has been a lifesaver this summer. I’ve used this everyday since buying it back in April and it has CHANGED MY LIFE. No over-exaggeration. Promise.

YSL Touche Éclat.

This cult classic has been a trusted tool of mine for some time, but alongside these other three products forms part of what I’m now christening as the Avengers of face makeup. The lightweight formula avoids creasing, but brightens under the eyes with gentle coverage, perfect for daily wear. I’ve begun to accept the fact that I’ll never completely hide my under-eye circles, so am instead embracing them with lighter coverage, as is apparently the preference of many French women; just give me four hours sleep and call me Mathilde cos this is a look I can really get behind.

[cakesandcries]

Today, dear readers, I’m talking about the beauty products which never left my side during quick fix emergencies and good times equally. I would say that they are the true MVPs in my beauty arsenal, as of recently.

When I say recently, I mean a month and more of loving these beauty products. It actually feels like light years since I’ve been using them, but I can’t help but fall for them over and again.

Two of the beauty products I’ll be talking about have gotten honorary mentions on my blog and my YouTube channel. The other three are relatively newer visitors in my life, but have already left an impact on me.

Since I am in a rather ‘get-to-the-point’ mood, I will start listing the beauty products that have had my heart these past few weeks. Let’s ride through this, shall we?

  Sally Hansen ‘Strobe Light’ Nail Polish

I have quite a few nail polishes in my collection, but this is the one I gravitate towards all the time. You know how they talk about a person who keeps reuniting with their ex, and can’t get over them? Yeaaaah, that’s me and this nail polish from Sally Hansen.

If this nail polish had a personality, it would be ‘delicate waif-meets-artsy millennial-meets party girl’. A moment of silence for what is the most unpolished way of praising a beautiful nail polish. Geddit? Unpolished.. nail polish.. okay, I’ll stop.

‘Strobe Light’ is a beautiful glitter-laden clear nail polish, with rose gold and baby blue flecks. It applies clear on the nails, like I mentioned, but definitely brings that bling factor to the table. I would recommend this method of application for maximum amp: one coat of base color + 2 coats of ‘Strobe Light’.

It wears way longer than all other nail paints I’ve worn all my life, which I am still surprised by. And for reference, I wash dishes by hand vigorously every day. Still, it held on for dear life and sparkled on my nails. I would say that the staying power is upwards of a week, before chipping and wearing off.

If you’ve been coveting the ‘glossier’ vibe, i.e naturally cool girl with one delicate pop of statement, this is your go-to nail color.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

To this mascara, I want to ask: “Where have you been all my life? Also, y u so expensive? I crie everytiem ;_;”

Seriously though, this mascara is bomb diggity dot com. I have the mini, because, a girl is broke as always. But even the mini has lasted me well since December. It has a thick, drier formulation but coats the lashes so beautifully.

I have the washable variant, but it doesn’t feel like it will flake or rub off easily. I haven’t teared up to put it to the test, but I have a feeling it will make me look glamorous even when I cry.

It brings a lot of length to my lashes, but no so much volume. I prioritize length, and so I’m a happy girl. *That’s what she said* 😉 My most favorite thing about this mascara is how it feels like I’m not wearing any, but my lashes still look so fluttery. I’m going to feel so sad once it empties. But I will buy this again later. I won’t let it be the one that got away.

Smith’s Rosebud Salve

I’ll be honest with you: I’m totally in love with the dewy, natural, glossier look these days. There’s something so fresh and easy about it; it does symbolize us playing with what we have and enhancing it in the teeniest bit.

This salve fits in with that ‘au naturale’ aesthetic, and performs very well too. I use it as a lip balm very regularly, and so does my husband. A man who doesn’t give a rat’s ass about skincare likes using this salve for his lips; shouldn’t that say something about its potency?

It is moisturizing, and imparts the most beautiful shine to the lips when worn on its own. You can substitute it for a clear gloss, minus the sticky feel. I have worn it as a topper on other matte lipsticks, to get that pouty lip look. And it wore so well, without clumping up on my lips and removing the lipstick underneath.

I’ve spoken about my love for multipurpose products previously, and this one fits the bill 10/10. I have doubled up this rosebud salve as a blinding, wet highlighter and even rub it on my hand’s knuckles when they get dry. And not to forget, this tin has lasted me FOREVER. I’ve been using it so often since October 2017, and look at the amount of product still left!

So, if you’re looking for a long-lasting all-purpose salve, it doesn’t get better than Smith’s rosebud salve at 6 bucks a pop.

Revlon Colorstay Concealer

I have 4 concealers in total with me, but this is the one I reach out for the most. It is easily the best match for me first, skin tone wise. It matches my complexion in summers when I tan, and in winters when I seem to get paler. What sorcery is this? :O

  I use Revlon’s Colorstay Concealer in Medium, which is a yellow-toned medium color with medium coverage. It is perfect for spot concealing, and looks like second skin once blended out. I have used it under my eyes as well, and it does a fairly good job hiding my dark circles. It works well with fingers, brushes and sponges; the best according to me is using it with a flat top brush.

The only con I would state is that it can emphasize dryness during winter season, when dry patches surface. But never fret, it’s nothing a little setting spray can’t fix. 🙂

Ciate London WonderWand Gel Kohl Eyeliner

Eyeliner- the staple makeup item that women (and some men) love to have the world over. What’s not to love-the way it defines the eye shape, the sultriness it hints at, and how it can make one look a little more awake.

I received Ciate London’s Wonderwand liner in an ipsy bag in July 2017, and I was using it on and off. But it came into the spotlight again last month, and hasn’t moved out since. I love how pigmented and smooth it applies, with zero patchiness. Mon dieu, quelle pigmentation! *Shows off the little French I know*

It is a jet black eyeliner you can draw on with one swift move. And the brush at the end is pure magic- it gives the most precise but subdued cat eye flick even if you don’t have experience doing a cat eye!   

It doesn’t wear off easily, not even under water. I did a small test by placing a swipe of the liner under water, and rubbing my finger over the swatch several times. It hardly budged, and I felt like a proud parent seeing how it holds so well. 😛

Never letting you go, Wonderwand Eyeliner.

________________________________________________________

What are some of your favorite beauty products at the moment? Do tell me in the comments section; I’ll wait.

Don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel while you’re here. Help a fellow blogger out by subscribing, won’t you? 🙂

Thanks for reading! Until next time, see you soon.

    Recent Beauty Favorites. Today, dear readers, I'm talking about the beauty products which never left my side during quick fix emergencies and good times equally.

[woahhaleigh]

2017 Round Up - Beauty Edition.

Happy 2018, beauties! I always try and make the time to round up all the goodies I fell in love with the previous year. (If you’re curious, here’s my 2016 Round-Up!) I mainly just stuck with the same brands I know and love this year!

(This was the year of Glossier and Kat Von D for me.)

I ALWAYS have Kat Von D’s Blotting Powder in my handbag. It is a staple and I absolutely cannot live without it. I use it even when I’m not wearing makeup. It just gets rid of any shine and evens out my complexion perfectly.

Another Kat Von D favorite this year was the Lolita Eyeshadow/Blush. I use this all the time! It’s was an essential when I played Wednesday Addams back in October. It’s been a staple in my routine since I got it!

Y’all. The Glossier Stretch Concealer is all that everyone says it is. I love it with every fiber of my being. It adds the perfect amount of light/medium coverage to use all over my face. I personally prefer applying it with a damp sponge.

I am addicted to the Glossier Super Bounce and Super Pure Serums. I have had them in my routine consistently since I started purchasing them back in September. They are everything everyone says they are. Super Bounce has to be my favorite. The Hyaluronic Acid in there just makes my skin so happy and gives it a ton of life. However, the Niacinamide in Super Pure is amazing for when my skin is freaking out.

When I dyed my hair super dark for Wednesday Addams, I needed to switch up my haircare routine. I purchased Lush’s Fairy Traded Honey Shampoo. It is everything. It gives you a beautiful creamy lather. And with all the honey in there, you don’t always have to use conditioner afterward. Since my hair is super thick and with my psoriasis on my scalp, I have to be very cautious of what I use. This shampoo is perfect in every single way. and never irritates my scalp. 

When the Sleepy Body Lotion came out during the holidays of 2016, I was so upset that this lotion was limited edition. When Lush heard our pleas and brought it or year round, I was so stoked. Now I can bathe myself in the Twilight scent every single night. I love this scent so much!

What were some of your favorites from 2017? &&& Want to fall in love with Glossier? Use my code to get 10% off your first purchase!

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10 Of The Best Beauty Products For Women Who Love To Have A Damn Drink

Look. Let’s not beat around the bourdeaux.

If it were socially acceptable to list “drinking” as a hobby or past time, it would be at the top of my list. Some people kick-box, some people play video games, I drink. There’s nothing lovelier to me than spending an afternoon having some quality cocktails with my friends and enjoying each other’s company. It’s the undeniable best.

But here’s the thing about drinking that no one, including myself, likes to admit.

It can be ridiculously hard on your skin, your body, and your appearance.

But lucky for you, I’m not only a seasonsed drinker (truly! I’m drinking a Grenache from Domaine la Rocaliere right now that is 💯💯💯) I’m also a beauty I know how to go out, howl at the moon, and wake up the next morning looking daisy fresh.

I’ve complied the best beauty products for those of us who know they deserve a fucking drink, and don’t feel bad about having one. Cheers, ya’ll.

Glossier Super Bounce

Glossier

Here’s the thing about Glossier: it’s worth the hype. Every product of theirs that I’ve tried has basically become a staple in my routine. Super Bounce is a serum that advertises itself as being ridiculously hydrating, and shit it lives up to the claim. Even if you’re going to be hungover, your skin doesn’t have to be. And with Super Bounce by your side, it will never feel like it. I just slather it on after getting all of makeup off and I never wake up the next morning with my pores feeling like this. Super Bounce is the thing you keep next to your bed to make sure your skin isn’t going to kill you for all of the wine you drank the night before.

Sephora Eye Mask

Sephora

It’s no secret that those of us who love to drink don’t get as much sleep as we probably should. What?! When there’s bar hopping to be done you rally and hippity hop on to the next bar! But all the that hopping can lead to dry eyes, puffiness, and just a general “I’ve been run over by a truck” kind of appearance. Eye masks are your  I just put them on while I’m salvaging my hair and brushing my teeth and after peeling them off no one will be any the wiser that I let some bartender named Hunter give me four shots of whiskey for free last night.

Bye Bye Makeup by It Cosmetics

Sephora

The number one rule, for drinkers and everyone else, is take your makeup off before you go to bed. And no. Not with a makeup wipe. Makeup wipes basically just rub your makeup all over your skin and irritate the crap out of it. Sorry but you have to actually wash your face to get off all that makeup. Which is why a balm, like Bye Bye Makeup by It, is so convenient. You just rub it all over, yes even on your eyes, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth. It will pull off all your makeup but actually hydrate your skin. So even if you skip the rest of the steps in your routine because you’re already one shoe off and half asleep, you won’t screw up your skin for the next two weeks.

Lip Sleeping Mask by Laneige

Sephora

Everyone who has heard of alcohol knows it’s dehydrating as hell. Even if you do the whole “glass of water between each drink” game. It’s still going to dehydrate you. And I don’t know about you, but the first place I feel it is in my lips. if I’ve been snacking on the bar nuts or whatever roughage they’ve laid out on the bar top for plebs like myself to snack upon. My lips are the first to go, the first to fall. Ever since I started doing the occasional lip mask once or twice a week, my lips hold up wayyyyy better. No chapped lips here, fam!

Pearly Girl Vegan Teeth Whitening Pen by Tarte

Sephora

Being a red wine drinker has consequences. And those consequences are worse hangovers, higher alcohol contents, and stained teeth. I’m completely paranoid about stained teeth, so finding something that didn’t also require me to walk around with strips on for a half hour like Crest wanted me to do was a game changer. The results show pretty quickly and extra bonus, she’s cruelty free!

Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask by Glow Recipe

Sephora

The name of the game when you love to drink but also want to save your skin is hydrate, hydrate, There’s a reason this sold out 7 or whatever times at Sephora. It I don’t black out very often but I blacked out on a trip with some of my friends after drinking a ton of whiskey waters, several glasses of wine, and at least a 6 pack and upon waking up the next morning I was pleasantly surprised to see I had slapped this all over my face in my drunken state. So even though I was probably (read: absolutely was) still drunk and unsure of how I would feel throughout the day, my skin looked bouncy and hydrated and glowey AF. 10/10 recommend.

Lord Of Misrule Bath Bomb and Shower Gel by Lush

Lush

Lush did us a solid and named these products after the leader of the pagan Feast of Fools, whose celebrations often were subject to drunken shenanigans and insane parties. But furthermore, the whole premise behind the bath bomb is to make something that  like you’re bathing in red wine. I don’t know about you, but that’s my ultimate life goal. The smells of black pepper and patchouli are super invigorating, and the combo is meant for rule-breakers. Which someone who probably loves a shower beer definitely is.

29 Exfoliating Crush Facial Scrub

Target

Exfoliants are tricky, and truthfully I’m not the biggest exfoliant girl. But an exfoliant (which is on sale btw!!) that’s made with grape skin from Napa Valley? That’s something I can get on board with. Exfoliants are good, but like free shots from bartenders named Hunter, they shouldn’t be an every day thing. Once or twice a week is plenty, and your skin will be thankful for all of the toxins you get rid of in the process. (Like the memories of taking free whiskey from Hunter.)

Wine Lip Tint by LABIOTTE

Amazon

THESE. LIP TINTS. LOOK. LIKE. TINY. BOTTLES. OF. WINE. (And they are long lasting and come in great, wine-esque shades. But let’s be real, the tiny bottle is the selling point here.)

Generation G in ‘Jam’ By Glossier

Glossier

Generation G has a cult following for a reason. The lipsticks are designed to have a “smudged on” look to them, so they’re incredibly forgiving and look great no matter what state you’re in when you put them on. But the shade ‘Jam’ is truly, my jam. It’s this beautiful, berry toned wine color that mimics the effect you get when you’ve been drinking merlot and your lips just start to be stained. I don’t know; I find it very sexy, kind of bad girl, and very much my style. And I feel like fellow winos will get exactly what I’m talking about.

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[aestheticsalmanac]

WELLNESS PROFILE: Danielle Copperman, founder of Qnola

Splitting her time between London, Sweden and the USA - nutritionist, model and entrepreneur Danielle Copperman is the creative mind behind our favourite breakfast cereal, Qnola. In addition to her career in front of the camera, Danielle dedicates her time to creating simple, healthy recipes using natural wholesome ingredients. In light of our recent product collaboration, the Qnola x Aevi Wellness Blend, we sat down with Danielle to discuss her initial inspirations, morning rituals and all that's in between.

WHAT WAS THE CATALYST THAT INITIALLY INSPIRED YOUR INTEREST IN WELLBEING?

Leaving the countryside, where I lived in a calm and peaceful environment surrounded by space and fresh air, and moving to London. A big move at such a young age (I was 18), made me more aware of my lifestyle choices and the conscious effort that is required to stay well when living a busy lifestyle in a stressful city.

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT MORNING ROUTINE TO ENSURE YOU WAKE UP WELL?

My morning routine is usually made up of the same kind of structure but differs each day depending on my commitments and my whereabouts. If and when I can, I wake up and start the day by oil pulling whilst the kettle boils and then preparing an infusion of fresh citrus fruits, herbs and spices, or a combination of my favourite adaptogen. Then I spend time stretching and tapping or meditating. 

If I have time, I do a 30-60 minute yoga practice at home, or I might head to a fitness class either at my local gym (which is boxing, circuits or HIIT at Blok) or my local yoga place, Yoga Home. After yoga or a class, I get a smoothie or make a nourishing breakfast and go about the rest of my day. 

My beauty routine is pretty low maintenance. I use a natural face spritz like rose water after cleansing, a natural moisturiser, a light base of mineral powder, organic mascara, and some essential oils as a natural fragrance. I then go about emails and work commitments for my current projects.

As a full-time model and entrepreneur, you have a lot on your plate. What are your top tips for finding the right balance between work and wellbeing?

It is incredibly hard to find the balance, but I think what has worked best for me is tuning in and consciously trying to stay focused and aware of what I want, what I need to spend my energy on, and what I don't. It helps to decipher what is most important to me in the 'now' and what I should focus my energy on most at any given time. 

I am renowned for doing too many things all at once. If I have an idea, I want to materialise it immediately for fear I will forget about it, but I've learned that taking things slowly, planning efficiently and focusing more on one thing at a time makes for a more productive outcome in the long run. Everything else will follow and unfold as it intends to. One major help for me is keeping in mind the mantra 'trust in the universe'.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

PROFESSIONALLY? 

The women around me, particularly those doing their own thing, like founding a business that their powerful passion and purpose is driven by.

PERSONALLY?

Everyone in my close circle inspires me daily and their continual support and power to uplift inspires me to do what I love and to live the process; believing in the journey and the power of the universe and overcoming any struggles. Just having a close circle of like-minded people is enough to inspire you to keep going when you feel lost. Also the many varied people I have met on my travels around the world.

SPIRITUALLY? 

My personal teachers; in yoga, exercise classes, shiatsu school, and study.

AS A COOKBOOK AUTHOR YOURSELF, FILL US IN ON THE BOOKS THAT HAVE INSPIRED YOU THE MOST...

There are so many books I cherish, and only in the past year or so have I been able to make time to read properly. With such a busy schedule in the early days of my business, I didn't respect the power of books to reduce stress and get out of my head and into another story, another world.

Beyond that, I've discovered so many books that have inspired and driven many aspects of my journey and have enhanced my experiences. Recently, I have been reading more books based around start-up business life, sustainability, health, nutrition, wellbeing and alternative medicine, amongst other topics. Recent favourites include Wellth by Jason Wachob, Do Purpose by David Hieatt and Dear Female Founder, by Lu Li.

WE LOVE THAT YOU HAVE AN INTEREST IN NATURAL SKINCARE - WHAT ARE YOUR ORGANIC BEAUTY ESSENTIALS?

Becoming interested in and inspired by natural skincare to create my own sustainable and healthy regimes was a natural progression as I changed my diet and ideas around food and feeling well. I quickly began to realise it was more than just food that can make us ill. I use natural ingredients, mainly plants in the form of oils, essential oils or other herbal remedies to soothe skin conditions, strengthen hair, cleanse skin, remove makeup. I have so many favourite brands and products but at the moment I am loving Rahua hair conditioner, Kahina face sprits, Glossier serums, ylang-ylang essential oil, almond and jojoba oil for my face, shea butter for my body, amongst other things.

AS A HEALTH FOOD ENTREPRENEUR, WE’D LOVE TO KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE ON ROTATION IN YOUR KITCHEN. WHAT ARE YOU CURRENT KITCHEN STAPLES?

I'm obsessed with he shou wu tea which is just he shou wu and hot water, super easy! I also rotate other medicinal tonic herbs with hot water or iced nut milk and have recently begun adding tocos from sun potion into the mix. I'm also launching a new range of Qnola, which is still going through some tests and final tweaks so I'm constantly eating that - both for work and pleasure!

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP 3 FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS/CAFES/POP-UP FOODIE SPOTS IN LONDON RIGHT NOW?

I love that Pokē has finally hit London and both Ahi Poke and Eat Poke are amazing. I also love the offerings at the Good Life Eatery which has been a favourite of mine since I started on my more conscious journey. I love Jidori in Dalston which serves a fusion of Japanese foods and FED in Dalston is also great, offering vegan pizzas, pasta and other Italian inspired goods.

Article originally published in the Aevi Journal: www.aeviwellness.com/journal

[thesiteofstyle]

MARVIN CONTRERAS

On his skincare routine for dry skin and his go-to shops for the best in men’s fashion. 

“My name is Marvin Contreras (@marvizzzzle), I'm 19 years old and I live in Farmington, New Mexico. I graduated from high school this past year and I'm currently a freshman at the community college in Farmington. After finishing a semester or two here I will transfer to a 4 year University to get a degree in Journalism/Communications, and after that I plan on transferring to a fashion tech university to study fashion design or fabric styling. I am currently working a part time job as a host at Red Lobster (I know, very glamorous ). I love to go thrift shopping, I love blogging about fashion, I LOVE to listen to music, I love online shopping as well, I like to eat fast food (super bad habit), I enjoy watching Netflix very much, and I also love to read fashion magazines!

It took me a long time to fully understand the importance of a consistent skincare routine, so when I started I was a little lost but quickly found products that I adored. I guess I'll start with my nighttime routine because it's the more rigorous of my two. First, I cleanse my skin using my favorite cleanser, Neutrogena Naturals Pore Clarifying Cleanser, and my Foreo mini Luna face cleansing brush. When I first found the cleanser I was skeptical because I'd heard mixed reviews about Neutrogena, but the naturals brand is truly a gem. I love how gentle and refreshing the cleanser is while still being effective. I love the mini Luna because it allows me to really get deep into my pores and the vibrating feature feels so cool but also gives a great tightness to your skin when you're done. Next, I apply some type of acne spot treatment. I say "some type" because I'm currently in the process of choosing a permanent product. I've tried three so far and they are, Neutrogena Naturals' Acne Spot Treatment, Murad's Rapid Acne Spot Treatment, and Neutrogena's On the Spot Acne treatment. My skin is very dry and very acne prone due to stress and a terrible habit of touching my face, so that's why an acne treatment is crucial in my routine. So far I've really fell in love with Murad's Acne Treatment because it's the one that's given me the best and fastest results! It's definitely the most pricy of the three, but I believe that investing in good skincare is completely ok! So after the acne treatment I will put on my Caudalie Radiance Serum which I recently got as a birthday gift from Sephora, and I ended up loving it! I think it smells amazing and gives my face a nice glow after use. Then, once I've applied my serum & treatments I moisturize which is uber crucial for any type of skin! I use Ponds Dry Skin Moisturizer and it's most definitely my lifeline! I love how a little goes a long way and also how much it's helped my skin! When I've finished all of this I like to do a spritz of either my Mario Badescu Rose Spray or LUSH's Eau Roma Water. Both products give you a refreshing feeling and I think any kind of face spray is honestly just a good finishing point to a solid skincare routine! Side note: a big pet peeve/necessity of mine when washing my face is always having a clean towel...ALWAYS!

For my morning routine, it's definitely a much simpler and to the point process. I must say, I'm not the best at washing my face everyday but I try my hardest! So first I cleanse again using the Neutrogena Naturals Pore Clarifying Cleanser. Then I moisturize using the same Pond's moisturizer and that's it for the morning! I'm usually in a rush so I try to keep it as quick as possible. In terms of skincare I'd say my holy grail items are: Mario Badescu Facial Rose Spray and the Kate Somerville's Eradi-Kate mask (it's to die for!)

For my "beauty" or make up routine, I don't go crazy at all. I like to give my brows a little bit of life so I usually begin by tweezing and perfecting any spots that need to be polished. Then I brush them out with a spooly brush and finish off by using Benefit's Gimme Brow gel in clear. I love the natural yet polished look it gives my brows, which is why it became my go to! I would really love to try Glossier's Boy brow in clear, and honestly I think I'm going to order it this week. Another thing that I'm passionate about is my lips. I have a pretty big set of lips so I like to keep them healthy and smooth! My lifeline is Vaseline's Cocoa Butter lip balm, it's honestly the best thing to ever happen to my lips! I NEVER leave the house without it.

In terms of fashion, this is where I have the most fun. My personal style is (I'd like to think) eclectic, adaptive, yet classic. Fashion is one of the most important things in my life and I try my hardest to make that present in my outfits. You can always tell how I'm feeling by my outfit. Sometimes I'll be feeling fierce and throw on a sexy cropped top and high waisted denim and other days I feel lazy and just wear a t shirt and Levi's. One thing you need to know about my personal style is that it's all about denim for me. I am an all out denim fanatic! Everything about denim makes it my "right hand piece" if you will. I love the endless amounts of options there is with denim. If I had to choose a Top 5 list of my fashion icons (bc there are way too many to name any less than 5) they would be, 1. Beyoncé: she's my inspiration for everything, but fashion would be a big one because I've always admired her sense of style. It's very fun with lots of quirky twists, yet she manages to look SO chic! 2. Bella Hadid: the minute she burst onto the scene, I was hooked. In the world of models, it wasn't very common to find someone badass yet glamorous, until Bella came along. I absolutely love the way that Bella can add an effortlessly chic feel to any and all of her outfits. I love her versatility and the way she can wear one thing one day, then something completely different and new the next. 3. Solange Knowles: like her big sister, Solange has such a fun and whimsical sense of style, but can still end up on Vogue's best dressed list! I draw so much inspiration from her Insta feed alone, but when I see her outfits anywhere I feel a sense of joy. Anybody that can pull off monochromatic outfits of all colors and proportions like her , is someone I want to be like! 4. Camille Cherrierre: if you don't know who Camille is, you're missing out on worlds of inspiration. She is a British blogger who I've followed for quite some time now, yet I still haven’t gotten tired of her amazing and ingenious outfits. She brings a certain effortless and fresh element to the fashion world and that's what I love about her! 5. Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen: it shouldn't be any surprise that these two princesses are on my list. I have loved and adored everything about these two since I was a child watching "Full House." But it wasn't until they really grew up and began to make a name for themselves in the fashion world that I started to draw inspiration from them. Their laid back yet uber chic senses of style have inspired countless outfits of mine, and it will continue like that. There's something about their minimalistic vibe that almost makes me want to own just two pieces of clothing (but not really, lol).

When I shop, I'm almost never looking for anything in particular. I literally just shop to shop. And the same goes for the places I shop at. I never have a specific store in mind, I simply just search up whatever store comes to mind and hope for the best. Although that doesn't mean I don't have some favorite stores! Some of my favorites are H&M (I love their message and mission, but also the prices & pieces are spot on), ZARA (also love their pieces and prices, good for designer dupes), Urban Outfitters (always been a fan of their vibe and I looooove the variety of brands and pieces they have), Mango (they have a unique variety of clothes at great prices), Grailed (it's an amazing site for great designer pieces that are being resold at much lower prices), and lastly I get basically all my denim from Thrift Stores. I love the experience of thrifting and I love that you find something new every time! Thrifted denim is honestly such a beautiful thing because the jeans have so much life when I find them, and I love adding my own story to them. Fashion. What a beautiful and alluring thing it is. I love the way that a good outfit can make me feel. I love that fashion is able to be shifted and manipulated to fit an individual's personal style. Fashion is my life and forever will be.

If I had to choose 5 items that are my absolute favorite, I'd say (in order) they'd be:

My vintage Levis denim jacket, I got it for $2 at a yard sale and I've been infatuated ever since.

Every single pair of Levi's 501's that I own. I have about 8 pairs of 501's and I'm in love with each and every one of them. The fit is my favorite and all of them are vintage so they have the amazing vintage fit that is everywhere right now.

My Hanes x Karla Welch white tee is my absolute favorite of my expansive white tee collection. It's crazy soft and clearly made of the finest of materials and it was only $30!! How can you say no to that??

My H&M white leather sneakers are my go-to shoe. When I got them I knew that I'd get the most use out of these. They're the perfect staple shoe and I love how they easily go with any outfit!

My ASOS leather pants are my lifeline during the cold months. I'm obsessed with how they can make any look feel sleek. Eventually I'd like to invest in a much more high quality and durable pair, but these were under $40 and they certainly do the trick!

All of these pieces are significant to me because they define my signature style. They're not only my favorite because of how they look, but how they make me feel. When I'm wearing any of them I feel like I'm at my best.”

Marvin Contreras interviewed by The Site of Style