The Luxi Look | LA based fashion and lifestyle blog

By Amy Zhang April 29, 2019 in Beauty 1 Comment

What I Want From the Sephora Sale

Twice a year, Sephora holds a massive sale on everything on its site. If you’re strategic about when you make your purchases, you can get all of your beauty needs at a discount during these sales. I always make a point to stock up on the essentials during the sale, and will usually pick up a couple new items as well that I’ve had my eye on. If you’re VIB Rouge, you get 20% off of everything on the site. VIB members get 15% off, and Beauty Insiders (all you have to do is make an account!) get 10% off.

Here’s what I have in my cart for when the sale goes live (since I’m VIB, I get access from May 2 – May 6).

[ Click on the items in the image below to shop directly ]

What I want from Sephora Sale

+ Biossane Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

This has been on my to purchase list for skincare for quite some time, I’ll definitely be picking this up during the sale and will report back on how it is!

+ Erno Laszlo Sleep Mask

My girlfriends rave about this sleep mask but I couldn’t bring myself to pull the trigger due to the price, but it’s in my shopping cart!

+ Supergoop Daily Moisturizer

I received a sample of this a few months ago and love this for an easy, everyday moisturizer. I like to keep some in my suitcase for when I travel.

+ Drunk Elephant Marula Oil

One of my favorite skincare products that I cannot live without. I highly recommend stocking up on Drunk Elephant in general during the sale – every product I’ve tried from them has worked so well on my skin. You’re limited to only 3 Drunk Elephant products during the sale (that’s how popular they are!) so either stock up on your go-tos or do some research on a new product you’ve been looking to try.

+ Beauty Blender

I don’t know how I ever did my makeup without a beauty blender. I always keep an extra one on hand, and typically stock up on these during the twice a year sale.

+ Fenty Bronzer

I’ve heard great things about Rihanna’s makeup line, with summer on the horizon now is a good time to stock up on bronzer.

+ Olaplex

If you have colored hair this is an absolute must. It keeps your hair strong and healthy even after multiple trips to the salon.

+ Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

It’s pricey for a foundation, but it is honestly worth it. The finish photographs so well (I wear it during most of my shoots) and it doesn’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.

+ Fresh Rose Sleeping Mask

Clearly I am on a sleep mask kick, but if you have dry skin like me you will find that wearing a mask at night helps so much and there’s no better feeling than waking up with baby soft skin. Trust me on this one!

+ Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser

Drunk Elephant’s latest product release that I’ve been curious to try.

I’ll stop before my shopping cart makes me automatically qualify for VIB Rouge… Happy shopping!!

By Amy Zhang April 25, 2019 in Style 2 Comments

To Blog or Not to Blog

Taking a break from blogging is a lot like taking a break from anything else… getting back into it can be challenging! This is the longest break I’ve taken from writing a new post in a while. And, to be honest, I feel rusty and really had to force myself to sit down in silence and write. A glass of wine always helps! It’s especially hard because it seems like these days most bloggers do not actually blog. Instagram is the medium of choice and it can feel like there isn’t a reason to keep up a blog anymore. For better or worse, my goal is to remain committed to blogging and my website – even when some days it feels like it would be easier to only focus on Instagram. With that said, it feels good to get the creative juices flowing again…

I can’t help but wonder though, these days is it better to blog, or not to blog?

To me, the pros of blogging have always been – increased freedom and a creative outlet, another channel for content (and one that you OWN). Also, a forum to connect with readers in a different way. However, there are pros to focusing on ONE channel (such as IG or YouTube). You’re not splitting your time across multiple channels, audiences tend to be more active, and for most influencers there are more monetization opportunities. Then you always hear, “no one even reads blogs anymore!” So what do you think?

sweater: vici, similar here | dress: astr | shoes: matisse | necklace: foray

By Amy Zhang April 8, 2019 in Beauty, Lifestyle 3 Comments

Festival Hair Care with Pantene

Festival season is rapidly approaching, and I’m sure many of you are thinking about what to wear and pack. This year, I’ve partnered with Pantene to show why their new Festival Hair Kit is an essential for any girl this festival season. Between all of the heat styling, tight braids, teasing, and coloring, hair can become extremely damaged. Proper haircare before, during, and after the festival can keep hair moisturized and healthy.

As someone who generally tries to avoid overly heat-styling my hair and going as long as possible in between washes to maintain my hair color, weekend-long festivals can be incredibly damaging to my hair. I tried out the new limited-edition, portable Pantene Festival Hair Kit to see how I could incorporate it into my routine. The kit includes everything you need to keep you going all weekend long – Pantene’s Dry Shampoo, Airspray (alcohol-free hairspray), one ampoule of the new Intense Rescue Shots, 1 On-the-Go Frizz Iron, and 2 Nourishing Mask sachets. Basically, all of the essentials.

How to Use the Festival Hair Kit to Rescue, Reset, and Nourish Your Hair

+ Pre Festival

Whatever your go-to look is, you’ll want to keep it going from day to night. After styling my hair, I love Pantene’s “brushable” Airspray because it doesn’t include hair-drying alcohols, but still provides a lasting, flexible hold that keeps your style strong. Generally, I wear my hair in loose waves, but over the course of the weekend, I like to add a braid or a textured pony as my hair becomes more naturally textured (aka dirty). Spray evenly on dry, styled hair for a silky, finished look. Also, to maximize the days in between hair washes (which I am convinced is better for you anyway!), use Pantene’s Dry Shampoo for volume. Remember to spray at the roots, or wherever refreshment is needed most. Massage thoroughly with fingertips.

+ During the Festival

A little trick I picked up a few years ago is to keep dry shampoo in your bag, wherever you go. Pantene’s Dry Shampoo refreshes your look by absorbing oils and instantly refreshing hair for fresh and clean second or third day ‘do! You will never see me with a mini bag, how else am I supposed to carry all of the essentials? After being in the sun or dancing all day at the festival, you WILL sweat and your hair will most likely need a touch up. Spray Pantene’s Dry Shampoo generously throughout your hair to freshen up your look and add texture.

Also, I tried Pantene’s On-the-Go Frizz Iron, which is the fourth item included in the kit. It is a heatless “iron” you can use to smooth away any frizz and fly aways. Directly apply it to your hair, like a traditional flat iron, and glide from top to bottom, to fight frizz. It’s a compact product, and another essential to keep in your festival bag.

+ After the Festival

After multiple days of styling, you will most likely need a break from heat. Ditch the blow-dryer and hot tools and opt for a little hair R&R. This is where a super hydrating, nourishing hair mask comes in play. Also, use the Pantene Intense Rescue Shots and Nourishing Mask sachets to repair and moisturize your dry strands. Your hair will thank you.

Use the Intense Rescue Shots after washing with shampoo – just apply onto damp hair and massage from root to tip, targeting areas that see the most damage. Leave in for 30 seconds, then rinse for 30 seconds. It’s that easy!

Pantene’s Nourishing Mask sachets are ideal for an instant hydration boost. While in the shower, after shampooing, place a half dollar amount inside the hands, rub together and comb into hair. Leave on for 5-7 minutes, or longer if desired, then rinse thoroughly.

Haircare doesn’t have to be complicated or require carrying around tons of heavy products. All you need is Pantene’s easy, compact Pantene Festival Hair Kit and you’re good to go! Order yours on Amazon to get it conveniently delivered to your doorstep. It’s also available for Prime Shipping!

This post was written in partnership with Pantene. As always, all opinions are my own.

By Amy Zhang April 5, 2019 in Style 5 Comments

Not So Basic Dresses for Wedding Guests

By now, wedding season has officially kicked off for the year and you may be wondering what to wear. Once you know what the dress code is, you can figure what to wear that’s appropriate but still chic. Just because it’s a wedding, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your outfit! Here are some of my fave brands and options for not so basic dresses to wear to a wedding.

Be the Best Dressed Guest at a Wedding

+ For Love and Lemons

You really can’t go wrong with anything from For Love and Lemons. Perfect for the girl who wants to stand out in a crowd, their dresses are anything but basic and always make a statement. As a personal lover of all things For Love and Lemons, I fell in love with this floral yellow maxi that is perfect for spring. The collections definitely straddle the line of what’s wedding appropriate (avoid anything too short!), but their maxis are gorgeous statement pieces.

+ V Chapman Studios

I found this brand on Instagram, and have been dying to scoop up one of the dresses in this collection myself. How gorgeous is this silhouette and this mustard yellow dress?!

+ Likely

Their dresses are well made and super flattering, and come in a wide range of colors. They are a little safer, but on the plus side you could probably get away with wearing them multiple times.

+ Alice McCall

Fun and flirty styles that are romantic yet unique. When I see Alice McCall dresses I think spring and summer. The shorter dresses work well for cocktail parties or more casual spring/summer weddings as well.

+ Revolve

Revolve’s collection of in-house brands (Majorelle, Lovers + Friends, NBD) have a surprisingly diverse and very cute collection of long dresses that are perfect for attending a wedding. I linked some of my favorites below – these are all formal enough to work for black tie optional or black tie weddings.

+ Rent the Runway

When all else fails, my go-to is Rent the Runway. The service is so easy to use and you’ll never have to worry about wearing the same thing twice. If you have a lot of events coming up I recommend their Unlimited subscription – it ends up being more economical. Some of my favorite brands for dresses on Rent the Runway: Reformation, AMUR, Marchesa Notte, Nicholas, and Solace.

Shop my Dresses for Wedding Guests:

dress: for love and lemons | bag: cult gaia | shoes: stuart weitzman

By Amy Zhang April 3, 2019 in Travel 5 Comments

How to Spend a Weekend in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is without a doubt my favorite weekend getaway from Los Angeles. I always come back feeling so calm and refreshed – the desert has the most relaxing, zen like quality. For friends and family from out of town who ask what there is to do in Palm Springs, I always say not too much, and honestly that is the best part. My everyday speed tends to be go, go, go and it’s incredibly hard for me to “do nothing.” Going to Palm Springs is always a bit of a reset for me, because it forces me to live in the moment and practice the art of doing nothing. I highly recommend it as a way to recharge your mind, body, and soul. A Palm Springs weekend typically looks like a lot of laying by the pool, reading, sipping a glass or rosé, and maybe an easy bike ride to town. Here’s how I like to spend a weekend in Palm Springs.

Where to Stay

The first step to having the best Palm Springs experience is determining where to stay. You can’t really go wrong in Palm Springs, but these are my tried and true spots.

+ Best Overall Vibe & Experience – The Parker.

Although it can be pricey (go mid-week for a more affordable room rate), it’s definitely worth the splurge. The hotel has a resort-like feel and you won’t have any reason to go off the grounds unless you want to. I could spend days laying by the pool ordering drinks from the Lemonade Stand and fresh summer rolls while reading a good book.

Norma’s is a favorite for breakfast and lunch, and the wine bar Counter Reformation is a total hidden gem. I’ve heard the spa, Psyc, is incredible as well. Even if you don’t stay on site, I highly recommend stopping by for breakfast and to check out the chic decor in the lobby.

Most Romantic – Korakia Pensione.

Perfect for a couple’s getaway. The vibes are a mix between Morocco and Greece, and the resort feels private and secluded. Even though it’s an Instagrammer’s dream, they are strict about not allowing photos unless you’re a guest at the hotel. It’s truly an oasis in the desert, even though it’s only a short walk from downtown Palm Springs.

Best for a Girl’s Weekend – Ace Hotel.

Admittedly, I haven’t stayed here yet, but it’s on my list. My girlfriends swear by the Ace for a relaxed girl’s weekend in Palm Springs. The pool scene is a little younger and more hip, and the breakfast at King’s Highway is a must.

Best for a Group – Airbnb.

Some of my favorite Palm Springs trips have been with a group of friends at a rented house found on Airbnb. There are so many properties available and this allows you to explore some of the neighborhoods and admire the mid-century decor and architecture in Palm Springs. Make sure you find one with a pool and stock up on food and drinks for the weekend.

What to Do

Truthfully, there isn’t a TON to do, but if you are up for activities and some sight-seeing, I recommend the following.

+ Palm Springs Art Museum

If you’re interested in seeing and learning more about mid-century design and regional art. For more modern art installations, I recommend checking out Desert X.

+ Aerial Tramway

For a view of the desert below. In some months, it’ll be sweltering hot at the bottom and you’ll see snow at the top of the mountain!

+ Visit Joshua Tree

Approximately an hour drive from Palm Springs. Personally, I think Joshua Tree & Pioneertown warrant a weekend trip of their own, but if you want to get everything done in one weekend you can wake up early and try to catch the sunrise from the park.

Otherwise hang back and enjoy the desert vibes and sip a cocktail by the pool – there’s no better way to relax and unwind.

What are your favorite things to do in Palm Springs?