Hi loves. Taking a little bit of a departure from the usual subjects today. I took a mini break from blogging yesterday, so apologies for the delay in post. It was hard getting back on social media today. To be honest I spent most of yesterday processing what happened Tuesday night. I had originally prepared a post for Wednesday, but it just felt like fluff and to be honest, I needed a little break.
Will be back to posting soon, but in the meantime I just wanted to re-share this quote from Hillary Clinton.
“And to all the little girls who are watching this, never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and to achieve your own dreams.”
While there are several products that get the job done whether they’re from the drugstore or a high end department store, certain things are worth saving up for. It’s important to know when to spend and when to save – so here are the beauty products I think are worth the splurge.
Beauty Products Worth the Splurge
Foundation
This is definitely a beauty product that is worth splurging on, in my experience. High end foundations tend to have better formulas and more pigments. It’s worth trying out a variety to find the right coverage and finish for your skin. I love Nars tinted moisturizer for daytime (it has SPF!) and Armani Luminous Silk foundation for when I want slightly more coverage and a flawless finish. I had to look twice at the price tag, but it is 100% worth it (makeup artists and celebrities everywhere agree). AND right now it’s 20% off at Sephora for VIB Rouge members (use code: 20ROUGE) and VIB members from November 11th – 14th (use code: 20VIB).
Hair Care
I think high quality hair products are SO important, especially if you color your hair. It’s important to use products that are paraben and sulfate free to preserve your color. My favorite line of haircare products, by far, is Oribe. Needless to say, I’m completely #oribeobsessed. I love everything from their Gold Lust line as well as their dry texturizing shampoo.
Because I wash my hair infrequently (aim for 1-2 times a week… call me gross, whatever), a bottle of shampoo and conditioner lasts me almost 2 years (to the point where I should just throw the remaining product out). So I really don’t feel bad splurging on Oribe products because they last forever and the quality cannot be beat (bonus: you won’t be able to get over the scent!).
Skin Products
Your skin is your largest organ and the one that everyone sees (duh). I would prioritize skincare over splurging on makeup products ANYDAY. Obviously diet and lifestyle factor into the quality of your skin, but the next best thing is nourishing your skin with the right products for YOU. This takes a lot of trial and error over time, but once you get your skincare routine down pat – whether it’s simple or a crazy 10 step regime – it’ll be one of the best things you can do for your appearance.
Lipsticks
Something about a nice lipstick just makes you feel more put together and honestly, fancy. The formulas of high lipsticks (Chanel, YSL, and Tom Ford especially!) are tough to beat – they glide on smoothly, stay put, and have the most gorgeous, vibrant shades. It might feel like a lot to spend $30 on a lipstick, but it’s one of those small little luxuries that is perfect for the days when you just need to #treatyoself.
What products do you splurge on, and where do you save? If you’re a VIB Rouge or VIB at Sephora, take advantage of the 20% off sale right now (this stuff NEVER goes on sale). Have a fabulous week, babes!
Hi, hi, hiii! It’s hard to believe we’re already in November! I’m so looking forward to going home to Minnesota at the end of the month for Thanksgiving. Until then, it feels like there is SO MUCH TO DO. Aside from work, I’m making a huge effort to downsize my belongings. Mainly my clothes, due to 1. limited closet space, 2. fairly consistent disapproving comments from my boyfriend re: my takeover of said closet space and 3. this book. Taking Marie Kondo’s words to heart, I am making a huge effort to purge myself of all belongings that do not spark joy.
So it’s out with the old and in with the new (the key being more things out than in). In an effort to stay true to this mission, I’ve been seeking brands that are priced at the sweet spot where you want to buy everything but you won’t because it’s not quite at fast fashion prices. (Don’t worry Forever 21, I’m not quitting you – just taking a break).
Fall Layers: WYLDR & Elizabeth Stone Jewelry
Currently loving WYLDR and this paisley maxi dress – perfectly appropriate for fall if you add a sweater, leather or suede jacket, or boots. I had a weird relationship with paisley for the longest time, but I’ve finally come to terms with the pattern and introducing it to my wardrobe. Totally check out WYLDR for your new favorite easy breezy maxi or going out dress.
And if you haven’t checked out Elizabeth Stone Jewelry yet, DO IT NOW. I cannot get enough of her pieces (hello, moonstone everything…with hearts in my eyes) and could not believe how affordable everything is – you can get a wide range of chokers, lariats, rings, and bangles for between $30-$80 for the most part. Um, YES PLEASE.
What are your fall must haves as the weather cools down? Also, has anyone else read Marie Kondo’s book? Any advice/suggestions on tidying up?
Let’s talk health and fitness… I haven’t always been the biggest fan of working out and it wasn’t until a couple years ago that I started exercising consistently. To this day, gyms intimidate me so I stick what I know and love – group fitness classes. I’ve tried it all – barre, spin, yoga, pilates, circuit training, etc. (Classpass is good if you don’t know what you like or already know you like everything). There’s really no quick fix to getting in shape – consistency is the key. It wasn’t until this past year that I really found what I love and have been sticking to a routine that has led to actual results for the first time in my life.
Sooo currently my routine is Barry’s Bootcamp 2x a week with a hike or a different type of class mixed in here or there. I love the combination of intervals on the treadmill (the only way to do cardio) and weight lifting, and aim to sweat for an hour 3-4x a week. Being active has really become part of my lifestyle and it helps so much with anxiety, stress, and general mood and well being. It’s not always fun or easy to get up early and workout, but I always feel amazing after when those endorphins kick in.
Call me crazy, but new and cute workout clothes are definitely motivation for me to get my ass to the gym. How cute are these sets? There have definitely been mornings when I’ve wanted to stay in bed but then I remember the cute gym clothes I set aside and somehow that drags me out of bed…
Somehow the “one size fits all” sizing is actually that. The fabric is super soft and comfortable – and they have the cutest prints. Definitely check them out if you haven’t already.
The material is incredible for sweat wicking so wear to any of your favorite activities, you will fall in love! I love discovering new activewear lines, I feel like the athleisure trend continues to stay, which makes me feel better about running around town in my workout clothes all day.
What’s your workout routine / how do you stay healthy and grounded?
Finally cooling down (or so I think) – either way we’re at the time of year when it doesn’t matter what the temperature outside is, it’s only right to wear sweaters. I’m a huge fan of sweater weather – wraps, cardigans, cowl necks, turtlenecks, sweater dresses. Give me all of the sweaters, I’ll be living in them for the next several months.
Looking Towards the Future: Fyuse
On an unrelated note, is anyone else into following emerging trends and technology? As a blogger, it’s important to keep an eye on emerging trends beyond fashion or whatever niche you’re in. This includes the tech space and specifically, new social platforms and apps. I’m sure the first bloggers to jump on the Instagram train before everyone else had a bit of a competitive advantage. Sometimes apps work out and sometimes they don’t, but it never hurts to try new platforms as they come out, or at least secure your handle.
I think it’s pretty well known that everything is moving towards video (if you don’t know, now you know). The new iOS features a GIF keyboard, Facebook is making a huge push on Facebook live, Snapchat is valued at up to $40B.
Anyway, not claiming to know what the next ‘ big’ thing is – everyone knows about augmented reality now (thanks to Pokemon Go) and you’ve most likely already heard of virtual reality as well. My good friend Ryan introduced me to Fyuse, which describes itself as a “spatial photography” app. I would describe it as a cross between a 3D image/video/photo.
Here’s an example of a Fyuse I took during one of my shoots with Ryan:
Pretty cool, right?
No one can predict the future, but apps like Fyuse are certainly a step in that direction. We’re moving beyond the age of 2D photos, people! Whether you’re an early adopter of new technology or prefer to observe first, keep an eye out for changes to come in social media and photography.
Note: this post was not sponsored in any way, just sharing my own personal opinions!
What is your take on the future of photos/social media/blogging?
