AYOFEMI

Mix No. 37

2014-05-23T09:49:00.002-07:00

Some songs for your weekend.

1. "Nevermind" - Foster the People
2. "Salad Days" - Mac Demarco
3. "How the Ranks Was Won" - Brazos
4. "Helpless Blues" - The Bamboos
5. "Swim & Sleep (Like a Shark)" - Unknown Mortal Orchestra II
6. "Baby Missiles" - The War On Drugs
7. "Black Water" - Timber Timbre
8. "Revival" - Deerhunter
9. "Best Night" - The War On Drugs

Spotify here. Rdio here.

Photo via ayofemi.vsco.co

Mix No. 36

2014-04-02T08:47:00.002-07:00

1. "Misty's NIghtmares 1 & 2" - Father John Misty
2. "Carmensita" - Devendra Banhart
3. "The Next Time Around" - Little Joy
4. "I Wanna Go" - Summer Heart
5. "Home (RAC Mix) - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
6. "Ivy Covered House" - Ducktails
7. "Past Lives" - Real Estate
8. "New Blue Feeling" - White Denim
9. "Always" - Junip

Listen on Spotify or Rdio!

Dreams

2014-03-31T13:02:00.000-07:00

This cover is just so lovely.

Inspired By No. 3

2014-03-06T18:44:00.000-08:00

Another Feather Necklace / Zara Dress / Rag & Bone Hat / Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish / Tibi Leather Vest / Need Supply Sandals / Jennie Kwon Studs / Free People Bracelets
Image via here

Snapshot / Caroline Sleeper

2014-02-12T07:20:00.000-08:00

This week I'm so excited to share a little about the lovely Arizona based designer/photographer Caroline Sleeper!

What do you do / tell us about your design & photography work.

I am a freelance designer, photographer, and stylist. I grew up in Southern California, then I spent 2 years living in Seattle before moving to Flagstaff, AZ where I currently live. I love trying new things and going to new places. So much of my photography and design is inspired by the places I've been and people I have met.

Any exciting upcoming projects?

I have so many projects coming in right now and I love it. I think the 2 that I am most excited about are a wedding design package for a couple getting married here in Flagstaff and a re-branding project I am doing for a make-up artist/stylist who is based on the east coast. I've just been so lucky to be connecting with such amazing clients lately!

What does your typical day look like?

I crave consistency, but unfortunately my life is too crazy to have a typical day. I have a part-time "day job" at a small shoe and clothing boutique. Days that I'm not surrounded by clothing I try to dedicate to working on freelance projects and other self-employed duties. Typically, I'll wake up early. I'm an early bird, I love mornings. I'll make myself some tea or coffee and check my emails. Then I'll make a to-do list and get started. Everyday is different because I have such a wide range of different projects. Usually I try to wrap up work by late afternoon and then, being the extrovert that I am, I try to spend some time with friends. I love what I do for a living but more importantly I love the people I get to do life with.

Describe your personal style/favorite places to shop at the moment?

I wear a lot of neutrals. I love black. I love gold. I love cream. Gray. Brown. Etc. I wear a lot of basics. Usually a pair of dark or black jeans, a black shirt, a lighter colored sweater, boots or flats, and a watch. SImple, clean, feminine, consistent. I also always do a cat-eye liner and mascara. I will always love shopping at Anthropologie. I work at Shoes & Such in Flagstaff so of course I love shopping there. I wear Levi's jeans exclusively so that's definitely a fave. Some other classic favorites are, J. Crew, Madewell, Free People, etc. I rarely by anything full price though, I'm a total sale section addict.

Where are you based/What are your favorite local places at the moment?

I'm based in Flagstaff, AZ currently but I'm planning on moving within the next 6-9 months so I'll have to keep you all updated on that. As far as favorite places, I'm a total foodie so the first places to come to mind are all restaurants. Pizzicletta, Criollo, Firecreek Coffee, Diablo Burger, Rendezvous, Fratelli's, Hops on Birch, and The Speakeasy. Flagstaff is such a small unique town that has so much culture for it's size.

What are you currently listening to?

My musical taste is so weird. I have classic favorites like The Avett Bros., Head and the Heart, Kings of Leon, Band of Horses, and City & Colour. But I also love Drake, Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake, Shakey Graves, Cataldo, John Mayer, Ages and Ages, Radical Face, Joe Pug, etc.

What are your favorite blogs and/or sources of inspiration at the moment?

Blogs/People I follow: Darling Magazine, Thoughts by Natalie, A Beautiful Mess, Hello Giggles, Braid Creative, and The Pioneer Woman Cooks.

Thank you, Caroline!

Follow Caroline (website, instagram, etsy, pinterest)

Photos by Milena Mallory (website, instagram)

Mix No. 35

2014-02-12T06:35:00.001-08:00

First playlist in a while, huh? This one's got a lot of artists I've already shared on here and some older songs that I'm surprised I haven't posted yet but are just too good not to. As always, leave any song recommendations in the comments, I'm always on the hunt for new things!

1. "Phantom Other" - Department of Eagles
2. "Laughing With A Mouth Of Blood" - St. Vincent
3. "Other People" - Beach House
4. "Ya Hey" - Vampire Weekend
5. "Villages" - Alpine
6. "Dissolve Me" - Alt-J
7. "Wings" - Haerts
8. "Santa Fe" - Beirut
9. "Shuffle" - Bombay Bicycle Club
10. "One Note Pillow" - Brazos
11. "Save Me From What I Want" - St. Vincent
12. "Teenagers" - Department of Eagles
13. "Love Will Tear Us Apart" - Jose Gonzales

Listen on Spotify here. Cover image via here.

Inspired By No. 2

2014-02-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

Inspiration image via here.
Kathleen Whitaker Staple Stud Earrings / Jeffrey Campbell 'In Love' Flat / Byredo 'Pulp' Perfume / Karen Walker 'The Number One' Sunglasses / Ete Notebooks / Honeydew Bralette / Zara Blouse / Madewell Shorts / Ilia Lipstick / APC 'Demi--Lune' Handbag

Issa

2014-01-15T11:00:00.000-08:00

I just love these. Issa Pre Fall 2014

Tuesday Tunes / No. 34

2014-01-14T17:56:00.000-08:00

1. "Heartbreaker" - The Walkmen
2. "Nocturne" - Wild Nothing
3. "Eyeoneye" - Andrew Bird
4. "High Road" - Cults
5. "You Can't Hurry Love" - The Concretes
6. "Spotlight" - Leagues
7. "Keep You" - Wild Belle
8. "No One Does It Like You" - Department of Eagles
9. "A World Alone" - Lorde

Listen here on Spotify.

As always, let me know what you're currently listening to in the comments!
Cover Image here.

Inspired By No. 1

2013-10-22T13:12:00.001-07:00

Inspiration Image: D'art Photography
Sweater / Dress / Necklace / Bag / Ballet Flats / Lipstick / Journal / Belt

Snapshot / Beth Kirby

2013-10-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

The absolutely lovely Beth Kirby from Local Milk is showing us a look into her gorgeous space and answering a few questions. I couldn't be happier to have her sharing over here today, she's a major talent and her blog is seriously one of my biggest inspirations!

What do you do / tell us about Local Milk.
I'm a freelance writer, photographer, stylist, and recipe developer. I like to think of myself as a renaissance woman, mostly because the alternative would be dilettante. Local Milk is a space inspired by everything from clean sheets to buttermilk, copper kettles to a fine hat. It's a space devoted to curating daily life, from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to all the moments in between. It's for the homebody with wanderlust and the nomadic nester alike; it's about traveling in your back yard and finding home in far away places. It's my hope that it offers a lovely, if momentary, refuge from the anxieties of modern life, and I try to provide readers not only a consistent stream of original, seasonal recipes but ideas for living one day at a time, for being present and discovering beauty in their everyday routines.

Any exciting upcoming projects?
So many! But I'm pretty excitable, so even the little projects are exciting to me. I'm opening up a little online pop up shop called Sweet Gum Co. featuring southern made & found provisions for the home and kitchen, everything from reclaimed wood breadboards to hand dyed linens to ceramics to vintage items. The opening is tentatively slated for November 1st. I'm also working on a cookbook proposal; hosting a Kinfolk workshop here in Chattanooga, TN in late November; and we're doing a full kitchen renovation with the amazing design team the Jersey Ice Cream Co. to turn in into a space for everything from workshops to photo shoots.

What does your typical day look like?
I wake up begrudgingly (not a morning gal), check my email before my eyes are even fully open (lousy habit), brush my teeth & shower, and then I have my quotidian breakfast; yogurt, fruit, and granola + strong coffee with copious amounts of cream. After that, a typical day can look one of two ways, either I'm cooking and shooting or I'm editing and writing. If I'm cooking and shooting, I spend the day in the kitchen and dining room (which is where I shoot). If not, I spend it tethered to the computer bouncing between Gmail, Word, Lightroom, and Pinterest. I'm kind of ADD. Working on the computer is difficult. I prefer the cooking and shooting days! In the evenings I try to get to a yoga class with my fiancé (he totally goes with me!) & then we sit down for a civilized dinner. I end every single night curled up next to him, watching something on ye olde Netflix & reconnecting after a full day.

Describe your personal style / where are your favorite places to shop at the moment?
My personal style is boyish, classic yet ecclectic, and extremely low maintenance; I wear clothes that can go seamlessly from market to kitchen to hostess with little to no change. I'm interested in texture and shape, and I don't really go in for bright colors, busy patterns, or overtly feminine looks, though I like to have an element of feminine for contrast, and I've been known to wear the odd red skirt. I've had a hat obsession for the past ten years, and it's still going strong. I own a lot of hats. My most recent purchase was a vintage brown, virgin wool Pendleton wide brim. I mostly live in my imogene + willie Elizabeth jeans (relatively new & I'm so very smitten with them) or vintage Levi's overalls and either Swedish clogs, L.L. Bean duck boots, or my old leather chelsea boots. I believe in tucking your shirt in and I'm not a busy jewelry girl. I Love simple metal work like Odette and Another Feather. My favoritite place to shop is hands down Etsy, and stores like Steven Alan, Need Supply Co., and Joinery are sources of covetous thoughts along with a choice handful of little online shoppes. Currently saving for a Lasso tank by State and an Ace & Jig dress. I usually invest in basics like a well made leather bag, sturdy boots, or tailored pants and for everything else I go vintage. I'd say my new to vintage ratio is about 10/90.

Where are you based / What are your favorite local places at the moment?
I'm based in Chattanooga, TN which is a wonderful place to call home. It's right on the Tennessee River, nestled in the mountains, and it's close to both the country and Birmingham, Atlanta, and Nashville, so I'm never too far from both Appalachia, urban civilization, and an international airport. My favorite local places to eat are Sluggo's (a little vegan diner), Taqueria Jalisco (the best mexican street food), The Purple Daisy (my favorite BBQ sandwich), Lamar's (a dive bar with slap yo momma fried chicken), and Famous Nater's (a food truck with one of the best chef's in town behind it). For shopping hit up the Knitting Mill, Collective Clothing, Fredonia, Warehouse Row, and Sophie's. Also, the Main Street Farmer's Market on Wednesday afternoon is probably my favorite place of all.

What are you currently listening to?
I'm a record collecting music nerd, so that's always a hard question. Lately, I've been listening to old standbys: The Last's L.A. Explosion (just one of the best albums ever), Leonard Cohen, Nick Cave, Roland S. Howard, The Nerves, The Modern Lovers, Rachmaninoff, and I'm always up for garage rock, old country music, chansons style french tunes, 80's music, and Phil Spector's Back to Mono. Oh, and I have a weakness for D.J. Khaled's All I Do Is Win feat. Ludacris and Snoop Dogg. It's hilarious, gets me psyched, and reminds me of my little brother.

What are your favorite blogs and/or sources of inspiration at the moment?
Here's my current line up. Food blogs: The Vanilla Bean Blog, Happyolks, Dash and Bella, {farmette}, The First Mess, For the Love of the South, Hungry Ghost, Manger, LIttle Upside Down Cake, Apt. 2B Baking Co., and Always with Butter. Not food blogs: A Daily Something, Rebekka Seale, Luisa Brimble, Another Feather, Pennyweight, Olivia Rae James, The Blue Hour, and Bleubird.

Also, be sure to follow her Pinterest and Instagram.

Thanks, Beth!

Monument Valley Snapshots

2013-10-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend I got to take a trip up to Monument Valley in Arizona with a few friends. I never knew this place existed until now, it's pretty amazing!

Snapshot / Kate Kipley

2013-09-26T09:17:00.001-07:00

This week I'm so excited to share a short interview with Kate Kipley, one of my favorite instagrammers. She's got such rad style and the most beautiful photos of her adventures. Go check her out! @katekipley on Instagram and here on VSCO Grid.

What do you do?
I'm a student at Azusa Pacific University (Majoring in Liberal studies with a concentration in Abnormal Psychology), I'm a nanny, I volunteer in a 4th grade class, and I do styling at Madewell.

Any exciting upcoming projects?
YES! I've been planning on starting a blog/visual documentation of some of my kitchen adventures/misadventures with my boyfriend.

What does your typical day look like?
Busy. Between school, teaching, and juggling two jobs, I hardly have down time.
During the week: I try to start my day with breakfast and a devotional. I'm not one of those people who can go all day without eating, I need food (& coffee) in the morning. Then, I (frantically) rush to school or work.
On the weekends: I tend to get out of town as much as possible to explore, relax, and get inspired. I love being outside, discovering new places and snapping photos of some of these moments.
During my "down time" I like to back, cook, eat, and explore new places.

Describe your personal style/favorite places to shop at the moment?
I usually shop at thrift stores. Constantly being around kids has taught me not to get too attached to clothes. My wardrobe consists of chambrays, jeans, and easy tees.

What are you currently listening to?
My boyfriend makes killer playlists. I usually boogie to those. (You can find them on his Rdio)

What are your favorite blogs and/or sources of inspiration at the moment?
I get most of my inspiration being outside or eating different types of food. I like to put myself in unknown situations. My photography is just capturing little moments of my day.

Thanks Kate!

Mix No. 33

2013-09-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

1. "Tiderays" - Volcano Choir
2. "Ceilings" - Local Natives
3. "Sans Soleil" - Miike Snow
4. "Breezeblocks" - alt-J
5. "A Stillness" - The Naked and Famous
6. "Sea of Air" - Portugal. The Man
7. "Never Saw The Point" - Cults
8. "Monte Carlo" - U.S. Royalty
9. "Without You" - Junip
10. "Dark Matter" - Andrew Belle
11. "East Harlem" - Beirut
12. "It's Alright" - Junip

Listen here on Spotify.
Cover Image via Vanessa Jackman.

Lydali

2013-09-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

Love the idea behind the online boutique, Lydali. They carry a beautifully curated collection of pieces (houseware, jewelry, and accessories) and source their products from aritisans from all around the world. Below are a few of my favorite pieces from the shop for fall. Also, they've been kind enough to offer readers a 15% discount, just enter code AYO15 at checkout!

1. Orpah Scarf 2. Bachelor Button Throw 3. Black Agate Drusy Earrings 4. Bull Skull Ring 5. Mango Wood Tray 6. Monogram Necklace 7. Indigo Polka Dot Pouch 8. Savannah Hoop Earrings 9. Wood and Gold Leather Bangles

Things I Like No. 6

2013-09-14T15:43:00.000-07:00

1. Hackwith Design House 2. Really want to try and make this cherry tart via Kitchen Simplicity over the weekend! 3. Joie's Spring 2014 showing was so simple and gorgeous. I'm really loving the look of a cropped blouse with a full a-line skirt these days. 4. This modern calligraphy class taught by Molly Jaques on Skillshare looks so fun! 5. The new lookbook from Odette New York is so beautiful, as per usual. 6. Was pretty excited to find this perfect looking Sole Society leather weekender on Pinterest the other day (also it's pretty affordable at $69!) 7. Love this braided hairstyle. 8. This collaboration between The Weaver House and Verily magazine is seriously so lovely and inspiring; there are tons more photos here.

Fashion Week Beauties

2013-09-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

These days I haven't had the time to peruse over photos of every show at fashion week the way I usually would (although honestly I sometimes find it all to be very overwhelming!). I've realized that I like what I like when it comes to fashion and that always tends to be feminine pieces with amazing detail and craftsmanship. Here are some of my favorite looks from the past week.

#1-6: Delpozo, #7-10: Marchesa, #11-14: Jenny Packham, #15-16: Oscar de la Renta.
I think that all white Oscar de la Renta piece with the booties might just win fashion week for me. Its just so dang good.

**Also, Ann Street Studio has the most gorgeous 15 second Instagram videos of a few different collections that you should definitely check out. It really is lovely to see the clothes in motion and get a close up of all the detail put into them. Here are the links to those: Michael Kors, Marchesa, Oscar de la Renta, Donna Karan, Nonoo, Carolina Herrera, and Delpozo.

Snapshot / Jules Fuller

2013-09-12T08:43:00.002-07:00

Today we've got the lovely Jules Fuller from Lawn Party! I've been following her blog for a few years now and she's got some seriously amazing taste! Be sure to follow Lawn Party on tumblr and her Pinterest!

What do you do?

The most important thing I do is stay at home with my 2 year old son. Then when I have time I search for the up and coming designers/ makers and dream about some of my old favorites. When I fall head over heels I write about them on my fashion blog, Lawn Party. Lawn Party started over 3 years ago really as a huge bookmark for me about my favorites. Then people actually started reading it and it has grown into something I never thought it could.

Any exciting upcoming projects?

I recently co-hosted the opening party for the Madewell store that just opened in Boulder. I had so much fun and am super flattered they asked me to do it. As of right now, I am just letting things happen as they come my way.

What does your typical day look like?

My typical day is usually all over the place. I am not good at staying at home, so Riley and I are usually on the go. However on most days, we try to start our day with a hike, then I blog a bit, some kiddo play time, and then I usually end it with a glass of wine with my amazing husband.

Describe your personal style/favorite places to shop at the moment?

I feel like I am finally at the place of quality over quantity. I am at the place I have been striving to be at when it comes to my style. Right now I can usually be found in basics, denim, and great leather. I am really letting my accessories really tell the story right now.

I am in love with the new Madewell denim right now. I have three pairs and they all fit like a glove. I just got an amazing Moto jacket from Need Supply that is the perfect layer for fall.

Favorite local places at the moment?

I love to go to Nod & Rose to see the latest from Ace & Jig and just to hang out with the totally rad couple that opened their store less than a year ago. I am really looking forward to the opening of Cedar & Hyde in October. They are going to be carrying some of my favorites that I often blog about.

I am really just loving Boulder at the moment. I love the beauty of it and the ability to be on a hike in no time. I am constantly shocked everyday by the beauty of this town and feel really lucky that we are able to raise our son here.

What are you currently listening to?

Honestly I am listening to a whole lot of Justin Timberlake right now. Old and new! Also, when the seasons change and fall comes I tend to listen to Fleetwood Mac. Hearing Stevie Nicks voice reminds me of fall and almost makes saying good bye to summer not so bad.

What are your favorite blogs and/or sources of inspiration at the moment?

Pennyweight is a go to for me! Elise is so sweet with such amazing taste and style. I pretty much love everything that Christine from Young Frankk pins on Pinterest. I also always am curious to see what is currently inspiring Bridge & Burn and wit & delight, as well!

Mix No. 32

2013-09-11T18:23:00.002-07:00

1. "Gasoline" - Alpine
2. "You Know You Like It" - AlunaGeorge
3. "Tennis Court" - Lorde
4. "The Keepers" - Santigold
5. "What You Were" - The Drums
6. "Feels Like We Only Go Backwards" - Tame Impala
7. "I Want It All" - Arctic Monkeys
8. "Everyone Knows" - Vacationer

Listen here on Spotify.
Image via The Veda House.

As always I'd love to know what you guys are listening to! Leave your current favorites in the comments!

Things I Like No. 5

2013-09-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

1. CLRK x Pennyweight limited edition driftwood candelabra 2. 'Goodnight' wire script sculpture 3. Amazing Schutz shoes via Viva Luxury 4. Swedish apartment tour on My Scandanavian Home 5.Kevin Russ 'Winter Horseland' print via Society 6 6. Braided updo with ribbons on Alexa Chung 7. Madewell French Knot Skimmers 8. Peach Buttermilk Ice Cream recipe via Eat Boutique 9. Arc Earrings by Tiny Armour 10. Rugs via House Doctor

Workspace Spruce Up

2013-08-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

My desk is looking more and more jungle like by the day! I lucked into an Anthropologie gift card the other day and couldn't help but pick up a few more planters and a candle to add to my desk. They actually have amazingly priced pots right now. I got the large gold one a few months ago for $14, the long peach one was also $14 and the pale yellow goblet was only $8! I also tend to keep a bunch of candles on hand (Illume and Voluspa make my favorite ones). I recently discovered this Saijo Persimmon scent and it is legitimately one of the best things I've ever smelled. I love the Illume Boulangerie ones as well and have been using my empty ones as little planters.

1. Anthropologie Metallic Crackle Herb Pot 2. Leif Shop Pastel Mini Planter 3. Copper Patina Planter 4. Illume Boulangerie Jar Candle 5. Voluspa Saijo Persimmon Candle 6. Glass Diamond Planter

So This is Where I Pretend It's Almost Fall...

2013-08-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

I definitely get a little antsy for fall every year. The clothes come out so early and they're just so dang good (not to mention so much more me than summer clothing) which leaves me having to pretend that there isn't 2 more months of Arizona summer to deal with...

From Top: Nicole Miller Fall '13 Lookbook, Bona Drag Fall '13 Lookbook, Free People August Catalog, Zara Fall '13.
The Goods:
1. Petiole Silk T Shirt Dress 2. Young Frankk Necklace 3. Penfield Checked Shirt 4. J. Crew Boots 5. Zara Bag 6. River Island Mon Cheri Tee 7. Big Bang Skull Earrings 8. Roxy Hat 9. NARS Lipstick 10. J. Crew Ball Cap 11. Shashi Crystal Bangle Bracelet 12. Madewell Sweater Dress

Mix No. 31

2013-08-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

1. "Stubborn Love" - The Lumineers
2. "Interlude II" - alt-J
3. "While You Were Sleeping" - Elvis Perkins
4. "Give It Away" - Andrew Bird
5. "Down the Line" - Jose Gonzales
6. "Chinese Translation" - M. Ward
7. "Your Eyes" - Bombay Bicycle Club
8. "It All Feels Right" - Washed Out
9. "The Truth" - Dr. Dog
10. "Something About Your Love" - Mason Jennings

Listen here on Spotify.
Photo via Salva Lopez

Snapshot / Kali Ramey Martin

2013-08-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

So excited to have Kali Ramey Martin of Bird is the Word on the blog today! Kali is an Oregon based chef whose blog has amazing recipes and gorgeous photos.

What do you do?

Bird is the Word is a food blog and catering company based in Oregon wine country. It's my dream coming to life. It's about creating delicious meals and unforgettable experiences. It's my way of bringing together sights, sounds, tastes and feelings to create a meaningful and memorable meal.

Any exciting upcoming projects?

Towards the beginning of September I get to cook and set a table for a styled wedding shoot with a bunch of extremely talented, local creatives. A florist, graphic designer, fashion designer, makeup artist, photographers - the list goes on. I can't wait to be surrounded by all that talent and create something beautiful together.

What does your typical day look like?

I'm actually still working full-time at a small cafe in wine country (Community Plate), so a typical day includes cooking or baking there for most of the day, then coming home and putting in a few hours' work on BW. It's a bit crazy at the moment, but I'm going part-time at the cafe in the fall and hoping to concentrate more on BW.

Describe your personal style/favorite places to shop at the moment?

My husband jokes that most of the items I wear could be found in a lumberjack's closet, but I like to think I've simply embraced my tomboy nature and become a true Oregonian. I'm desperate for fall to come so I can ditch the cutoffs and return to my thick wool socks, flannels and break in my new Bean Boots. I like neutral colors, clean lines, and timeless styles. I actually do a lot of thrifting and consignment shopping, but I'm constantly lusting after everything from Stevan Alan.

Favorite local places and or restaurants at the moment?

Some of my favorite places in wine country (besides the cafe where I work) are Red Hills Market, Chapters Books & Coffee and Soter Vineyards. Also, a few weeks ago I went fly fishing for the first time and fell hard for it. All I can think about is getting back out on the river and practicing my cast.

What are you currently listening to?

I'm currently listening to the new CIvil Wars album, Jeffrey Martin's (my cousin-in-law!) Gold in the Water, and Wake Owl's Wild Country. Also, the three records my husband gave me for my birthday: Lana Del Rey's Born to Die, Johnny Cash's At Folsom Prison, and The Beatles' Past Masters.

What are your favorite blogs at the moment?

A Well Traveled Woman, Roost, Local Milk, Not Without Salt, Nat the Fat Rat and I always love anything Kinfolk puts out.

Thanks Kali!

Beauty Favorites

2013-08-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

So, because I am a bit of a beauty product fiend, I thought I would make a round up of my favorite products for you guys.

FACE
Bobbi Brown Long Wear Even Finish Foundation SPF 15: I've been using this foundation for years now. I love it because a) it comes in a huge range of shades so I actually can find the right one for my skin tone and b) the finish is great (it's not super heavy or dry looking) and doesn't bother my irritable skin.
Nars Illuminator: I use this as a highlighter on top of foundation (on bridge of nose and cheekbones). It's subtle and not too sparkly, which I like. Also, it lasts forever.

CHEEKS
Bobbi Brown Cream Blush in Calypso Coral: Even though I don't find cream blush as easy to apply as powder it's pretty great for a more natural looking finish. This Bobbi Brown one is more opaque than other lines' versions so it shows up on darker complexions more easily.
Nars Blush in Lovejoy: This is one of my favorite powder blushes. It goes on so easily and comes in flattering shades.
Clinique Powder Blush in Aglow: This blush is super subtle in color (it's almost like a bronzer) so I like to use it when I've got other things going on i.e. am wearing lipstick or eye makeup.

EYES
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Black: I generally wear eye makeup only a few times a week but I've recently taken to doing winged eyeliner when I have the time. This Stila liner has a thin felt tip brush like applicator and is really easy to use. Here's a pretty good tutorial from Free People for winged liner. What I like to do is hold the pen horizontal to my lash line to apply (it has more control that way and you'll get a straighter line) then run a makeup remover cloth, folded into a point, along the top when you're done to clean it up so that the line is smooth.
Benefit Gilded Highlighting Pencil: This is great to use on the inner corners of eyes to look more awake. Kind of like that white eye pencil trick but I find that this shade blends in better.
Loreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black: This is a super dark mascara that makes your lashes look really full. It definitely gives my favorite look of all the mascaras I've tried although it can be a pain to remove.

LIPS
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment: This is actually my favorite favorite product, it's the perfect texture and the tinted ones have just the right amount of color (plum and rose are the two that I use the most). Also, it smells amazing.
Buxom Lip Polish: I'm not usually a lip gloss person but this is great for when you need to look just a little bit fancy. It's a tiny bit shimmery but not glittery and stays on for a super long time.
Benetint Lip/Cheek Stain: This is nice for when you want some color but don't like the hassles of lipstick (I constantly fear it will get on my teeth or I'll need to keep fixing it, etc. so I pretty much never wear it). The stain lasts for a good amount of time and is fuss free. Just apply and then top with your favorite balm.

TOOLS
Up & Up Foundation Brush: This is a good basic foundation brush, it has softer bristles than other ones that I've tried which give a more even application.
Sonia Kashuk Spoolie: A spoolie is your best friend if you have full brows. That's all.
Ecotools Blush Brush: This brush is nice and full and applies the right amount of product. Also, its pretty affordable so that's a plus.
Tweezerman Eyelash Curler: My little sister swears by eyelash curlers and gave me this one for Christmas. Honestly, in day to day life I rarely remember to use it. But I do find it easy to use and it doesn't pinch my lids like the curler I previously had did (or maybe that was just my lack of skill haha).

EXTRAS
Fresh Sugar Lychee Perfume: I love this. It's really fresh and not too sweet. The brown sugar one from Fresh is also great and good for fall/winter.
Essie Nail Polish in Bahama Mama: This dark burgundy color is my absolute favorite and it goes on really easily and evenly. I use it all of the time no matter the season.
Butter London Nail Polish in Tea with the Queen: A great neutral and I find Butter polishes to be really easy to use and long lasting.

So that's it! What are your favorite products?