Shopbop’s seasonal sale is always my best excuse to stock up on staples for the coming change in weather. Starting today through Midnight Friday October 14th Pacific Time get huge discounts using code: MAINEVENT16. Some of my favorites:
These travel photos are breathtaking.
I ordered this dress for an event on Friday.
So many foreign beauty items you can find stateside.
I admit I am a Bachelor Nation fan, and I loved this article about Nick (the new bachelor) and his age – he is one year younger than me. Will be nice to see a thirty-something in the hot seat!
Loved this as a grammar nerd.
These extreme dining spots is giving me wanderlust.
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While I completely loved being inspired by the summer fashion in Los Angeles this past weekend, I am totally ready for fall. The streets were full of rompers and sneakers, but the stores had transitioned to autumn-friendly outfits. I can’t wait until we can break out the sweaters, jackets and scarfs. Some finds from on the web I gathered up over the weekend:
All the eye makeup tips you’ll ever need to know.
Love this natural beauty roundup.
A list of timeless all-purpose beauty saviors.
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I decided to take today off from work to be with my two puppies (sidenote: they are almost six years old but will always be my puppies). They had their annual teeth cleaning yesterday – which I know might sound ridiculous to some of you. But my rescues genetically ended up with terrible teeth and gums so we have to go in every year to pull teeth and clean things up. Anyway, the anesthesia makes them super snoozy and they have to be on pain killers. So, yes… I am that crazy dog momma that stayed home with her fur kids today.
I used the day off to extend my “clean-out by using up old products” I mentioned yesterday. Today’s project was in the kitchen. I used some odds and ends to pull together a darn good dinner. And threw out items that were … um … past their prime.
Anyway, the day off also provided me with the chance to try out some new beauty products. I have sadly recognized my summer glow fading so I first reached for some self-tanner. Vita Liberata has always been a favorite brand so I was excited to try out some of their newer products. The Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Gradual was just what the doctor ordered – gentle, subtle, great smelling and nourishing.
The formula is relatively thin and applies clear – something I prefer for nighttime application. My dry skin soaks up the hydration provided by aloe vera and Hyaluronic Acid. Grape Seed Extract also improves the appearance of skin. The glow can be deepened with repeated use. So far, I haven’t found that sometimes “dirty” look that can sometimes have repeated self-tanner application. But I do suggest a light exfoliation before use. The lack of that annoying self-tanner scent is thanks to Vita Liberata’s Odour Remove™ – I truly cannot detect a fragrance or odor at all. Granted, I am not super sensitive to it, but this is one of the least offensive self-tanners I have tried.
Does not contain triclosan, GMOs, fragrance, or alcohol. Available at Sephora.
Yes, it is boiling hot but Fall Color Collections have already started hitting shelves. NARS’ fall collection appeared at NARSCosmetics.com and NARS boutiques on July 15th. While I haven’t had a chance to spot the entire line, I have been enjoying the new Velvet Shadow Sticks (so so good). In all, the collection has 14 pieces: 8 Velvet Shadow Sticks, 2 Dual-Intensity Eyeshadows, 2 Lip Glosses, 1 Lipstick and 1 Blush.
For this season’s inspiration,François Nars looked to the eyes. “It just seemed like the collection needed to revolve around eyes and especially how eye color and texture can convey not just character and mood but a period in time, be it an era or a decade or even a season.”
And of course their newest product is all about these windows to the soul. The Velvet Shadow Sticks are creamy and glide over skin without pulling. There is quite a range of shades, but I have been reaching for Goddess (and pink champagne) and Hollywoodland (pale gold). I use the stick for a layer of pigment on lids and then blend with my fingers. The shadow stays all day and makes for a minimal but luminous look.
You can also pair these with powder for a bolder look. I also use the darker shades like Flibuste Velvet (black above) with a liner brush. I haven’t gone dramatic with these sticks yet, but those looking for a more editorial look can layer these for more opaque color.
Find the collection now at NARSCosmetics.com and at Sephora, department, and specialty stores on 8/1.
Looking for a fall fragrance that is sophisticated and subtle but still cozy and romantic? Don’t miss Byredo Gypsy Water. I have been swooning over the brand since first discovering Byredo here and still cherish the travel size. But this newest addition to my collection is not only full-sized but earthy and sultry – perfect without being over the top.
This Swedish fragrance-maker was inspired by the myths surrounding the Romany lifestyle – something I myself have always been a little fascinated by. Fresh soil, forests and campfires will come to mind. And while I am not a champion outdoors-man, I do love the connotation of crisp fall weather in my scents this time of year.
Top notes include bergamot, lemon, pepper and juniper berries but the last thing I find is anything terribly floral. At first sniff, I get quite a bit of lemon which is delightful first thing in the AM. The incense and pine needles come through next on me. And the finish dries down to the gourmand I love with vanilla and amber.
Some fall and winter scents can be cloying and heavy. This one is light and confident but still cozy and warm. Byredo once again delivers the ultimate in luxury.
Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program. I consult for Neiman Marcus which is affiliated with the Neiman Marcus Group, but as always, opinions are my own.
