Hello winter, and hello dry skin! Even if your skin is not usually dry, the winter months can be particularly dehydrating for your skin. Using different products throughout the year when seasons change can be key to maintaining healthy skin throughout the year. As someone who always has incredibly dry skin, I’ve tried what seems like every kind of deeply hydrating moisturizers and creams. After many, many years of testing and trialing, these are my favorite moisturizers.
Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Under $50
Glossier Priming Moisturizer Rich – I love this product for the price, it’s one of my favorite Glossier products. It is SO much better than the original priming moisturizer (IMO) and a little goes a long way. I actually use it for its named purpose, which is as a priming moisturizer underneath foundation. Overall, a huge fan of this moisturizer and how accessible it is.
Belif The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb – one of my first forays into Korean beauty led me to this moisturizing cream. This is a very solid option for dry skin types and didn’t irritate my skin. It’s also paraben and sulfate free, which is always a win in my book.
Dr. Jart Ceramidin Cream – I don’t know how to describe this cream, other than it made my skin… better? My skin feels firm, supple, and moisturized for hours after using it. If I were to go without any makeup for the day, it’s usually after using this cream.
Under $100
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream – this feels like an old Hollywood kind of night cream, in the best way possible. I like to think of it as the grown up version of the Glossier cream above. I’ve been using it as a priming moisturizer lately and I’ve noticed my makeup appears much smoother and my skin seems to glow from within.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer – this didn’t feel quite heavy enough for nighttime, but it remains one of my favorite daytime moisturizers to date. My one complaint is the packaging – I really wish Drunk Elephant would make more sustainable packaging – but otherwise, this is my go-to, do it all moisturizer.
Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cream – packs a surprising moisturizing punch, despite how thin the consistency is. This is another great daytime cream if you don’t like the feeling of “heavier” creams.
Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream– a recent favorite. This cream feels so much more luxurious than the price tag and leaves your skin unbelievably soft and smooth – like a pillow, or a baby’s bottom. I use it during the day and at night although it may be too heavy for some skin types. One of my favorites out of everything listed here.
Kiehl’s Rosa Artica Youth Regenerating Cream – this is a heavy duty cream, in my opinion. I used it religiously when I lived in Chicago during the winter. It will solve all wind burn and cold related irritations. Now that I live in Southern California, I haven’t felt as much of a need to use such a thick cream, but my love for it remains.
$100+
Eve Lom Moisture Cream – great for sensitive skin (I swear there is virtually no scent) and layers nicely with all of your serums and other products. Highly recommend if you have the budget for it (at $150 a jar, it ain’t cheap).
La Mer Crème de la Mer – all right, the elephant in the room – is La Mer worth it? I’ve shared my thoughts before – it’s super luxurious and rich, and if your skin needs the extra moisture, it’ll feel like your skin is absorbing all of it in. Truthfully, I’m not sure if I can justify the price tag, and word on the street is there are cheaper drugstore dupes that are practically identical. Do I still love La Mer? Yes. But I would recommend trying a sample before committing to the full jar.
So you’re engaged – congratulations! Being engaged is such a special and exciting time in your relationship. Even though AJ and I dated for over five years before getting engaged and I was convinced nothing would change in our relationship, I feel our engagement has brought us closer and even more committed to one another. One of the many exciting events to celebrate your engagement and commemorate the moment is taking engagement photos. Once you’ve found your photographer and set a date for the shoot, it’s time to start thinking about what to wear for your engagement session.
I knew right away I wanted to wear Grace Loves Lace in my engagement photos – I’ve been obsessed with the bohemian Australian bridal line for years and jumped at the chance to finally wear one of their gowns. I chose the Inca, which has many of my favorite qualities in a dress: all lace, long sleeves, low back, and a train. Their lace gowns are gorgeous for any occasion. But I think they are particularly beautiful for a beach or summertime wedding.
I also used my engagement shoot as an opportunity to have a mini glam session – something I highly recommend doing, unless you are a pro at doing both on your own! Professionally done makeup especially will photograph differently than when you do it on your owns (hint: contouring helps). It also doesn’t have to break the bank – I got a blowout at Drybar and had my makeup done at Blushington in West Hollywood and was happy with how both turned out.
Here are my tips for determining what to wear in engagement photos.
Consider your location
First things first, determine the setting of your photos. Where (and when) you take your photos will play a huge role in what you’re wearing. Shooting in a more urban location? Consider a cocktail dress, denim, or even a leather jacket. If you’re going for a more outdoor-focused location (think beach, mountains, or a garden), you might consider a sundress or more feminine look.
Coordinate with your fiancé
You don’t have to be completely matching. But make sure you communicate with them what you both plan on wearing. You don’t want to show up in a sundress while your fiancé is wearing a tuxedo. Consider complementary colors and prints – neutrals (black, gray, white, navy, camel) are usually a safe bet, as well as avoiding too many prints.
Wear clothes that fit
Now is not the time to wear anything that is too big or small. The camera will show these flaws more noticeably. So finding clothes that are well-fitting and that you feel comfortable in is key. Movement is secret to a lot of great photos, so I would also recommend avoiding anything too constricting
Stay true to your style
Don’t wear anything you wouldn’t usually wear or that you don’t feel comfortable in. Some of my favorite engagement photos I’ve seen have consisted of the couples wearing jeans and a white T-shirt. Simple and classic, you can’t go wrong. Personally, I love wearing white, so it felt natural to choose a more “bridal” look. If you aren’t the biggest fan of white, don’t feel obligated to wear it. If black is your favorite color, rock your favorite all-black look! Your photos will be timeless and chic.
Have fun!
Don’t overthink what you’re wearing. At the end of the day, this is a chance for your love for each other to shine and to get used to taking photos together in front of a camera (we definitely need some more practice!) before the big day.
Besides how convenient they are (no more having to deal with tucking your shirt in and dealing with bulges) and how it’s basically a cuter version of shapewear, my love began a few years ago when, like every other girl on the planet, I was wait-listed for the Reformation Avalon bodysuit.
Despite my initial questioning of why anyone would want to wear a leotard in public (old dance class memories coming back), I eventually got my hands on the lace-up bodysuit that everyone was wearing last summer. Since then I’ve become full on obsessed with bodysuits (seen here and here). If you’re wondering how to wear a bodysuit, the answer is that it’s actually really simple! Bodysuits have been trending for a while now and they’re here to stay! You will get over the thought of wearing a one piece (it’s comfortable, I swear!). Then, you’ll find wearing a bodysuit actually has so many sartorial benefits!
Bodysuits have been and continue to be all the rage in fashion news and street style. Backless, lace up, long sleeved, off the shoulder, cut outs, plunging fronts… bodysuits have them all. They’re are like your favorite top, but better. No more worrying about how to properly tuck in your tops, something I never quite figured out, or your fitted tops coming undone. The bodysuit does all the work for you. Yes, going to the bathroom is more of a struggle, but given that we’ve already fully embraced rompers and jumpsuits, a bodysuit should be NBD.
the fit:
If you’re a fan of fitted tops, bodysuits are the best option. They work with almost any bottom. Pair them with your jeans, shorts, skirts and they’ll make any outfit look polished (no more constantly adjusting the bottom of your shirt). One caveat: some bodysuits will result in VPL, so you may want to avoid anything too tight on the bottom, unless that’s a look you’re intentionally going for… the key is to find a bodysuit that fits your body and style! Bodysuits with a higher thigh cut will generally sit more smoothly under your clothes.
If you’re used to tucking into loose tops or tank tops, a bodysuit is seriously so much more convenient (and looks so much better because the form fitting bottom ensures a smoother fit – so you have fewer awkward wrinkles and creases where the top meets the bottoms). I love playing around with proportions – if the bodysuit is skin fitting, consider pairing it with looser bottoms such as wide legged trousers or boyfriend jeans. I almost always pair my bodysuits with high waisted jeans or bottoms.
Bodysuits will definitely hug your curves and accentuate your body. But there are so many styles that there is something for every body type. My body is definitely straight and narrow, so I have to keep that in mind when I’m shopping. A black bodysuit is flattering on every shape and size and always a safe bet. Bodysuits are so easy to wear you honestly cannot go wrong and definitely need some in your closet.
My favorite places to shop for bodysuits: Revolve, Urban Outfitters, and Reformation. Bodysuits are one of my go-tos at the moment. I especially love them with anything high waisted, as the fitted top will accentuate your waist. They work for any season as well! For cooler months, look into long sleeved bodysuits.
Body suits are great if you’re wondering what to wear to a music festival, on a night out, or even to the office. There’s a bodysuit for every occasion! I’ve rounded my favorite bodysuits below – is this a trend you’re on board with?
‘Tis the season for holiday parties galore. And what better way to show up than dressed to the nines for the occasion? At the moment, I’m obsessed with everything Retrofete – from their sequined robe mini dresses that come in every color, to the perfect one shoulder cocktail party dress, Retrofete has you covered for every special occasion. So it’s become one of my go-to brands for crowd-pleasing pieces you’ll love wearing. I’ve worn their dresses to weddings and in my engagement photos. Moreover, when I’m out for drinks. These dresses make a statement, so I prefer to keep accessories simple. Think strappy sandals or a simple pump, and an easy clutch ormini bagto carry just the essentials.
The dresses are on the higher end range for pricing, so keep an eye out on Rent the Runway for certain styles (they don’t carry the popular Gabrielle Robe Dress which is what I’m wearing in the photos, but they do have this option which is perfect for drinks, and this long gown that can be worn to a formal holiday party or wedding). I’ve included some of my other favorite Retrofete dresses below. Happy shopping, and happy holidays!
Whether you’ve already gotten a start on your holiday shopping or are more of a procrastinator, I’ve rounded up all of my favorite gifts for women for today. Christmas is officially a month away, and even if you celebrate another holiday, chances are you’ll want some gift-giving inspiration. These gifts are perfect for the woman in your life – whether it’s your best friend, mom, significant other, or even for yourself! Tis the season to give, so keep reading this Gift Guide For Her for the best gifts (and at every price point!).
2019 Holiday Gift Guide For Her
Holiday Gifts for the Beauty Guru
If she’s VIB Rouge at Sephora and is always in the know on the latest beauty launches, you’ll want to get her a luxe beauty present from one of the brands below.
Eve Lom is a brand that was new to me this year and has quickly become one of my favorites. Not only is the packaging sleek and beautiful, but the products have worked incredibly well and become some of my staples. This set comes with all of the essentials from the line that will make your skin glow, and in a travel size friendly package.
Everything Charlotte Tillbury screams Hollywood glam, her lipsticks and liners are some of my absolute favorites, but you cannot go wrong with this glow set filled with subtle shimmer that will make your skin look like it’s glowing from within.
If there is a beauty guru in your life who doesn’t have this yet and you are looking to splurge, look no further. It’s an outrageous amount of money to spend on a blowdryer, but I promise anyone who receives it will be obsessed.
I’m certainly not the first person to fall in love with Le Labo scents, at this point they are ubiquitous but that doesn’t make me love them any less. I started with Santal 33 first but have been wearing this scent for the last few years, it’s a little strong but you will get so many compliments. The City Exclusives are worth checking as well, as are all of their other scents.
Truly a holy grail concealer, but if you’re looking to spoil someone for Christmas check out all things Cle de Peau. The most luxurious beauty products that any woman would love to have in their beauty bag.
As someone who finds most lipsticks too drying, these Nars satin lip pencils have been one of my favorites for years. My favorite shades are Rikugien, Exbury, Timanfaya, and Majella.
If you’re looking for a basic skincare set for travel or the gym, I highly recommend Glossier. The price point is more reasonable and the products are surprisingly good. The Milky Jelly cleanser is one of my go tos, but I like their priming moisturizer quite a bit as well.
How cute is this candle! I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t love to have this as decor in their house. Bonus points because it smells incredible as well.
The ultimate haircare travel set. Oribe is expensive, but worth the price as far as high end hair products go. I’ve tried almost everything in the line and can truly attest that they make a difference and are worth the price.
Say goodbye to tangled necklaces when you travel! I’ve always wondered how to travel with jewelry and often end up not packing any. This is the answer!!
If you insist on being cute but still want to be comfortable when you travel, a matching cropped set will usually work well. Cream fleece is a nice change from the usual black.
I just started carrying my passport in a case this year and it’s made it easier to locate and store, and keep my passport and other required travel documents in check. Skinnydip makes some of my favorite accessories (think phone cases and cosmetic cases).
I have and love my AirPods, but these earphones from Bang & Olufsen are so stylish and would make an incredible gift for someone who is always on the go.
Even if you aren’t about an in-flight skincare routine, face masks are necessary when you are always on the go and exposing your skin to all sorts of different climates and elements.
Some of the most comfortable leggings you will ever wear. They come in so many different colors, they’re perfect for lounging around or a light yoga/pilates class.
If you hit the gym often and hard, recovery is just as important as your training! Regular stretching and foam rolling does wonders for your long term health and the sustainability of your training. Investing in recovery tools & massages/treatments will go a long way if being active is important.
A book with style, covering nutrition but also doubling as a coffee table book (you can never have too many coffee table books!), this one focuses on foods that make a difference on your skin and overall appearance.
I can’t say enough positive things about my Vitamix, I’m not much of a cook so if I could recommend one kitchen appliance this would be it. I love making smoothies, soups, sauces, nut butters, and more in this.
I can attest to how good this cookbook is, Chrissy Teigen really knows what she is doing and the recipes are approachable, fun to read, and downright delicious.
You don’t have to go Missoni, but a nice throw blanket is a great gift for a friend who loves to entertain or spend a Friday night in. Can you ever have too many throw blankets?
Bonus points if you get a print you know your friend will absolutely love!
Holiday Gifts for Her
These are the perfect gifts for the fashion girl in your life. Chic and timeless pieces she will wear for years, you can’t go wrong with any of the staples below.
I’ll admit I was late to the game becoming a fan of these, but if you’re looking for a practical and timeless work shoe that isn’t a heel (because let’s be real, flats are so much more comfortable), I would go for these. They come in different colors and prints, but you can’t go wrong with black.
Every girl needs a mini bag they can throw on their shoulder for day to night, if you want to spend a little more on a designer brand, YSL makes great crossbody bags and clutches. I love the black on black in this style, but have also had my eye on a nude bag as I have too many black bags already.
Every girl needs a buttery soft leather jacket in their closet, I like this particular AllSaints version for the quality of leather and fit at the price (many comparable leather jackets are easily 2-3x the price). The fit is a bit snug so if you prefer a roomier fit, size up.
Chains have made a huge comeback this year, but delicate versions will be here to stay. The metal is gold vermeil on sterling silver, so it isn’t as expensive as pure gold but should still last if you take care of your jewelry. Missoma is a favorite of Meghan Markle’s (recently named the most powerful celebrity dresser of the year).
You’ve probably seen these sneakers on everyone at this point, I love wearing sneakers with just about everything because I don’t have the tolerance for heels anymore. If you opt for another pair, I also like Veja and of course, everything Nike.
A long camel robe coat is a fall staple, if you need inspiration just look up Hailey Bieber, she elevates a simple white T and jeans combination with her camel coat. Zara makes more a more affordable version I really like as well.
Maybe it’s because I still don’t own fashionable pajamas, I just think of them as such a wonderful gift but not something most people would buy for themselves. This silky version is comfortable but not frumpy.
I’ve been a fan of Slip for a long time, if you don’t have one of their eye masks or pillowcases yet, get them ASAP! The silk scrunchies are a nice small gift that will be appreciated by any girl, as we all know too well the inevitable mark left in your hair from a normal elastic band.
Protect your neck and face with an oversized wool scarf. Acne makes my favorites, but I also have similar looking scarves (at half the price) from Aritzia that I adore.
