mylifeinmascara.......

safer beauty with green spa

2016-10-13T08:30:00.000-04:00

As some of you may or may not know, I have been on a personal journey to safer, cleaner, better beauty. I've done some reading and research and I just can't unlearn what I now know. After learning of all the harmful ingredients in most nail polish including chemicals that should be no where near us let alone on our skin, I just knew there had to be better options. During my search for a safer alternative I found Green Spa On The Go and decided to give them a try. Not only was this the cutest nail salon I ever did see but the staff was so incredibly kind and friendly. The service was impeccable and best of all it was NOT rushed. They really take their time during your service and make you feel completely pampered. Green Spa uses products that are natural, non toxic, safe, and cruelty free including soy based nail polish remover, and non-toxic polishes. They also offer a line of their very own natural products which include scrubs, lotions, and candles. If you're in NYC or Long Island, Green Spa also offers at home services and corporate events. If you're not I recommend you look for a safer option in your neighborhood and treat yourself, you are worth it! As always thank you for stopping by!

not so basic dress

2016-10-11T10:30:00.001-04:00

This dress again....

The basic shirt-dress from Necessary Clothing is ultra comfortable. Super casual for everyday but can be dressed up with your favorite accessories. A hat, booties, some jewels, the possibilities are endless. It's currently on sale for $15 and comes in many colors. I have it in Olive too, seen here. I don't know about you but when I find something I love I tend to get it in a few colors, and at these prices you just can't lose! Thanks for stopping by.

so long summer

2016-09-05T12:13:00.000-04:00

Oh just sitting on these beautiful steps reminiscing about Summer.

Is it just me or does Summer always seem to come and go way too quickly? I'm pretty sure I know your answer. Each year before Summer begins I make a mental list of all the things I want to do, places I'd like to visit, and restaurants I'd like to try, in my own city mind you. And every year I'm lucky if I do half those things. At first I thought it was me, but no it's you Summer, it's you! You come and bring sunshine, carefree nights, and cute little dresses, oh how I love dresses. And before I could spend the day at The High Line, visit The Cloisters, or try Melba's famous Southern Friend Chicken, boom you're gone! Now I know what you're thinking, I could do all these things any time of the year, and you're right, but there's just something magical about the Summer time. Could it be the longer day light hours, the sound of the ice cream truck driving down your street, the beach, or those cute little dresses again....
All I know is that when Summer comes around I feel like a kid on the last day of school. Yup, that's the best way I can describe it! Fall may be my favorite season but saying goodbye to Summer is certainly bittersweet. Hope you had a great one!

Shop the Blog:

Basic Dress By Necessary Clothing

Sawyer Booties By J.Crew Factory

Wool Fedora By J.Crew Factory

Double Horn Pendant Necklace Find Here

Leopard Bag By JCrew Similar Here

Oversized Tortoise Sunglasses By J.Crew Factory

fall vibes with necessary clothing

2016-08-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

It's the end of August and I can smell the pumpkin muffins already. I don't know about you but Fall is my favorite season for so many reasons. On top of the list, the clothing of course! This basic shirt-dress can be worn year round, looks great on any body type, and is currently on sale for only $15! I have it in 2 colors and another on the way. It's a great piece to add to your closet and at that price why not get a few colors! Wear it alone or throw a jacket over it, you just can't go wrong. The boots are a faux suede with a peep toe. They have a side zip for easy on easy off, and come in black and taupe. Both pieces are from Necessary Clothing, where fashion is affordable. You can find some great promos here. As always thanks for stopping by!

Shop the blog:

Watch, Necklace, Gold ring, and Bracelets all from Stella & Dot

Lip Sheer in Plum from Beautycounter

Sunglasses from JCrew Factory

bling and a blazer

2016-08-22T09:00:00.000-04:00

Big bling to your favorite tee, I say HECK YES! Adding some sparkle and a blazer is a great way to kick up what would otherwise be a super casual outfit. This is an easy look that anyone can put together. This look can take you from brunch to a girls night out. Just remember when wearing a big statement necklace you don't need much more. In most cases I would wear stud earrings or none at all and keep the rest of my jewelry to a minimum. Have a awesome day and as always thanks for stopping by!

Necklace: Mirina Collections

Blazer: H&M

Lip gloss in Fig: Beautycounter

Tee (similar): Etsy

Sandals: Madewell

Shorts (old): Find similar here

safer beauty with mischo

2016-08-18T09:00:00.000-04:00

A handwritten thank you for my purchase, now who doesn't love that!

Recently I switched to safer products in my daily skincare and beauty routine. It never crossed my mind to read labels or research ingredients. Like many of you, if I saw a product on a celebrity, model, TV commercial, or magazine ad I would more than likely go out and purchase it (within reason of course). After learning some important and astonishing facts about the beauty industry, I was shocked! Hence my 'Switch to Safer' attitude and new & improved self-care regimen. I could go on and on but for now let's talk nail polish. I was recommended Mischo Beauty by my friend Melanie and after reading up on the product and it's creator Kitiya Mischo King I was sold. Mischo nail lacquer is 8 FREE, which means it contains NO Formaldehyde, NO Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), NO Toluene, NO Xylene, NO Formaldehyde Resin, NO Camphor, NO Ethyl Tosylamide, and NO parabens. Mischo is also Vegan and Cruelty Free. The formula is long lasting and comes in the most beautiful on-trend colors! I just want to take a moment to acknowledge the fantastic customer service. My post office never delivered my package, and in fact they lost it, then found it, never re-delivered to me, and finally sent it back to Mischo Beauty. I emailed Mischo Beauty and Kitiya quickly wrote back. She was so kind, apologized (even though it was clearly not her fault), and kept me posted when she received my package. She offered to send it back to any address I choose, she then re-sent it at no charge to me. The package was beautifully wrapped with a handwritten thank you! I was so grateful especially in this digital day and age to receive such wonderful customer service. You can check out the entire line here. As always, thank you for stopping by!

(Two pics above courtesy of Mischo Beauty site)

rose & lime dress

2016-08-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

I kinda, sorta live in dresses all summer long....
Found this one while looking through 'The Gram' (Instagram), saw it on a fellow Stella & Dot stylist and fell in love immediately! I asked her a few questions about the fit and she so generously and quickly replied. Side note, don't you just love your insta-friends?!?! Gosh I do!

The dress is from Rose & Lime, so of course I headed on over to their online boutique. Shipping was faster than I expected, always a nice surprise. It is bold and vibrant, flow-y and just so pretty. I paired it with a floppy hat, Jcrew Factory sunglasses, and my Madewell sandals. Oh and how cute is my grand-furbaby Winston! he can get in my shot any day! As always, thanks for stopping by.

Coffee Table

2016-03-03T16:53:00.000-05:00

I recently did a little re-decorating (insert happy emoji face)! I mostly re-used items I already owned by re-purposing them in different areas of the house. The one item I did purchase was this gorgeous coffee table from World Market. I fell in love with the material and texture and It went perfectly with the items I already owned. This little guy made a big impact in the room and I couldn't be more pleased. Because I went from a large rectangular coffee table to this smaller round one I added some much needed floor space which makes the room look bigger! When you have a small space and share it with a large family you appreciate every single inch. We are enjoying our new redecorated space and I couldn't be happier!

As always thanks for stopping by!

Necessary Clothing

2015-12-14T21:28:00.000-05:00

Jeans / Similar Bodysuit Here & Here / Shoes (currently on sale) / Duster Coat / Stella & Dot Rings / RocksBox Necklace

You know I practically live in jeans and this distressed pair from Necessary Clothing are my current faves. Super comfy, on trend, and won't break the bank.

I love dressing up my denim, it's pretty much what you will find me in most days. Here I paired my distressed denim with a mock neck bodysuit and a light weight duster coat, which is perfect for this crazy December weather as of late!!! I added some jewels and a great pair of heels and done! What's your favorite way to dress up your denim?

As always thank you so much for taking some time out of your day and stopping by. Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season!

Boho Vibes

2015-11-11T06:30:00.000-05:00

Paisley Shirtdress / Over the Knee Boots / Fringe Bag / Forever 21 Hat / Sunnies (Similar)

Feeling a little Boho today. This shirtdress had me at paisley, I love this print especially in the Fall. The boots and bag are the perfect finishing touches, no need for extra accessories today.

Similar styles....

Hello Brooklyn

2015-11-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

It's was a gorgeous Fall day in the neighborhood. Near 70 degrees in November, I could certainly get use to that! I spend some time in my favorite borough with a few of my favorite people and tried a new little burger spot. Hello Bklyn and hello Mac & Cheese Burger!!! The food was delicious, prices were reasonable, and hip hop played over the speakers, I will definitely be coming back!

This dress is from Holiday Boutique in Historic Beacon Hill, MA. I purchased it on my last visit to Bean Town and this was the perfect day to wear it. It's from one of their very own signature collections. This one is from the 'PRETTY LITTLE SISTER' line. It's a faux suede navy dress. It is absolutely the softest material I have ever felt. If you are ever in Boston, please stop by Holiday Boutique, it is such a gem and the staff is absolutely wonderful. The selection of clothing and accessories is superb. Aside from carrying their own line they also carry smaller fashion labels which I love. If you cannot make it there you can check them out online.

I paired my dress with Sam Edelman 'Louie' Booties and a burgundy Sole Society bag that I've had for quite some time. I linked below this bootie in other colors and some similar bags & dresses.

As always thank you for stopping by!

Similar Styles....

Berry Dress

2015-11-04T21:31:00.000-05:00

Zara Lace Up Shoes / MissGuided Dress / Express Jacket / Stella & Dot Plume Necklace

If you know me you know I live in short, flowy dresses, they are my absolute favorite. Comfy, stylish, and flattering on every body type. I wear them all Summer long and into the Fall and Winter with tights & booties. This berry color is even prettier in person and paired with Zara's lace up shoes and a faux leather jacket and it was appropriate enough for the office.

Some more faves...

Casual Jumpsuit

2015-10-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Loft Jumpsuit / Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.B. / Sam Edelman Booties / Sunglasses (similar, similar) / Michele Deco Watch / Denim Jacket (similar, similar)

I wish you could feel how soft this jumpsuit is. So comfy, I'm not embarrassed to say I wore it two days in a row. I have to admit though when I bought it I wasn't sure if I liked it but it was too good of a sale! I added my denim jacket and booties and kept the accessories to a minimum. I'm so happy I didn't pass it up, I'm already thinking up a few other ways to style it.

Thanks for stopping by and for a daily dose of #OOTD, accessories, and the occasional cupcake visit me on Instagram.

On Repeat

2015-09-29T07:30:00.000-04:00

If this #OOTD looks familiar it's because you've seen it here! This dress happens to be a favorite of mine. I wore it this past Spring & Summer and will continue to wear it throughout the Fall. I plan on adding booties and a moto jacket for a completely different look. We all have our favorite pair of jeans but if you take a closer look at the pieces you already own you'll be surprised at all the things you can re-style & re-use. So as much as I love shopping, sometimes all you have to do is shop your closet and get inspired!

Thanks for stopping by and for a daily dose of fashion, fab finds, and more, follow along on Instagram!

A few other LBD's I'm really loving

Favorite Fall Booties

2015-09-25T17:16:00.000-04:00

Clarks Phenia Cresent Booties in Wine suede / Tilly's Ibiza Jeans / Express Lace-up Moto Jacket / Loft Blouse / Stella & Dot Rosegold Tiered Lariat / Stella & Dot Bracelets / Rebecca Minkoff M.A.B. Mini Tote

It's finally September and as sad as I am to say goodbye to Summer I am super excited to say HELLO to booties! Yes booties, one of my favorites when it comes to Fall footwear. Booties are not only on trend but oh so versatile. You can wear them with pretty much everything, from skirts, to dresses, to jeans. These Clarks Booties have quickly become a favorite of mine, they are super comfy and the color is even more fabulous in person. These will be on repeat throughout the Season for sure!

As always thank you so much for stopping by and for a daily dose of fashion, coffee, cupcakes, and fab finds, you can follow along on Instagram!

White Romper + Denim Jacket

2015-08-04T22:53:00.000-04:00

My Summer style consists of dresses, rompers, cut off shorts, and loose flowy tops. I want to be comfortable and that doesn't mean I can't look cute too. I paired a comfy loose fitting romper with my good ol' denim jacket, I have owned this jacket for over 10 years at least! Here are a few similar styles I found!

Ikat

2015-07-13T22:16:00.000-04:00

I'm all about comfort especially on hot Summer days but I want to look cute too. This Ikat tunic dress makes for easy Summer Style. Pair with your favorite sandals, a tote and you're ready for whatever the day brings. Brunch with your girlfriends, coffee date, some shopping, you can do it all in comfort & style!

Ikat City Tunic Dress from Nu New York

Avalon Leather Tote by Stella & Dot

Sandals find similar here & here

Sunglasses find similar here & here

Thanks for stopping by!

Lace and Luxury

2015-07-07T20:39:00.001-04:00

I for one love Chanel though my wallet does not! I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to own a Chanel bag of my very own and maybe one day I will, but for now it's definitely not a priority. So on my wish list it stays (more like my lust list), and that's totally OK! Recently I used VillageLuxe to borrow this beauty and yes she was everything I expected and more. VillageLuxe brings you some amazing rentals from the finest closets in New York City and they're looking to expand to other cities soon. VillageLuxe is by invitation only and they were kind enough to offer my first 100 followers an invite code! Just go to VillageLuxe.com and use invite: MASCARALUXE

SHOP THE BLOG

Lace Romper & Kellyn Floppy Hat from Shopsosie Use code MYLIFEINMASCARA20 to receive 20% off your purchase.

Becker Cuff Bracelet & Pave Spear Ring from my Stella & Dot Site

Crystal Mason Ring (on ring finger) from Baublebar

Deco Dot Ring from Madewell (on sale)

Sam Edelman Sandals (old) similar here, here, & here

As always thank you for stopping by!

Black & White

2015-06-18T07:30:00.000-04:00

The Usual Suspects

2015-06-15T07:30:00.000-04:00

On most any given day this is what you'll find me in... jeans & a blazer. I can't help it, it's my basic, my every day, my usual. I love denim and there is NOTHING like a great fitting pair of jeans or a few, who are we kidding. A great fitting blazer is also a staple. A blazer not only looks great with jeans (my favorite way to wear it), but also with shorts, a skirt, or over your favorite dress. It's also a great way to Dress Up your Denim. What is your go-to piece? I'd love to hear in the comments below.

Thanks for stopping by!

Sigma Beauty

2015-06-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sigma Lip base in Go Dutch. Use as a base, liner, or all-over color.

Lip Vex in Sheila for a little shine.

I used the Lip Base Pencil in Go Dutch as an all over color. I love a matte lip and this one does not feel dry which is a plus. This is my go to when I wear a bold eye and want to keep my lips nude and understated.

This Sigma blush in Heavenly has quickly become a favorite. It's highly pigmented and blend-able. This color has a matte finish but if you prefer shimmer they've got you covered! The Sigma eyeshadow in Fawn is perfect for all over color, wear it alone (pictured below) or with a bold liner (pictured above) for a little more drama.

Sigma Beauty brushes are high quality, hand crafted, lightweight, soft, and durable. Sigma is known for their brushes and that's no coincidence. I'm no makeup artist, but I'm sure we can all agree that having good brushes is key! The Sigmax Kabuki Kit is a must have in my book. I used the Flat Kabuki F80 to apply my liquid foundation. It goes on like a dream, no streaks, just smooth all over, even coverage. For blush on the apples of my cheeks my favorite is the Angled Kabuki F84. The Sigmax fibers are designed for cream, powder, or liquid products and are antibacterial and hypoallergenic.

From brows to lips, eyes to cheeks, Sigma Beauty carries an extensive makeup line with shades and finishes to compliment any skin tone. The eyeshadows and blushes come in high pigmented, long lasting, blendable shades. The Lip Base is my favorite for lining, all over color, or can also be used as a base under another product.

Sigma brushes & Sigma makeup = a perfect match! For a limited time receive 10% off your online order at SigmaBeauty with promocode: MYLIFEINMASCARA10 Offer ends June 30, 2015

Thanks for stopping by!

Pleads

2015-06-09T07:30:00.000-04:00

Toms Majorca Booties / Tindra Pleated Dress / JCrew Denim Jacket / Marc Jacobs Sunglasses / Alex & Ani Bangles

I added a denim jacket & booties to take my LBD down a notch from semi-formal to weekend casual. This dress is light and fun, it's simple yet beautiful. I love the pleated details and the sheer top. It's definitely a favorite in my closet and will be for years to come. If you think it looks familiar you're absolutely right, check it out here where I wore my LBD with a cape to create a different look. Do you have a favorite piece you wear multiple ways? I'd love to hear in the comments below!

Florals in Florida

2015-06-04T10:31:00.000-04:00

Floret Medley Wrap Dress / Gladiator Sandals / Fringe CrossBody Bag / Stella & Dot Zuni Necklace / Keep-Collective Horizontal ID / Customizable Watch & Bracelets / Marc Jacobs Sunglasses

Spent a fabulous and much needed 3 day weekend in Ft. Lauderdale with the hubby, this past May. The weather was absolutely perfect, the food was delicious, the beach was so relaxing, and for once I didn't over pack. One of my favorite pieces was this Floret Medley dress from Shop Sosie. This has been my go to site for my Spring & Summer apparel and you can get 20% off site wide with promo code: mylifeinmascara20 which means I will be doing a little shopping tonight! Happy Thursday and have a great weekend friends.

Bell Sleeves

2015-06-02T07:30:00.000-04:00

Sandals (on sale now) / ShopSosie Molly Dress / Fringe CrossBody Bag / Sunnies (similar) / Customizable ID Bar Necklace

Crochet trim, bell sleeves, and super flowy shift dress make for easy breezy Summer style. Add your favorite sandals and a cute bag to complete the look. Go from poolside to brunch in no time! FYI these sandals, fringe bag, and a very similar pair of sunglasses are currently on sale. All three for under $80, now that's an irresistible deal! Also take 20% off this dress with code: mylifeinmascara20

Have a great week friends and as always thank you for stopping by!

Cape Town

2015-05-29T23:57:00.000-04:00

Rohnwen Cape from Blue Vanilla / Tom's Majorca Booties / Sosie Tindra Dress / Fringe Bag / Sunnies (similar here & here) / Alex & Ani Bangles

Capes, and Fringe, and Plaid......Oh My!

I don't know about you guys but Spring in my neck of the woods has been quite unpredictable. For days where it's not so Spring-like I grab my Rohnwen Cape and go. It's perfect for breezy days and cool nights and can be worn several ways. For a totally different look just add your favorite belt. Here I wore it over a little black dress but it looks just as nice over a tee and your favorite jeans.

Here's a treat save 20% off this dress or anything site wide with promo: mylifeinmascara20 just click on the link above!

As always thanks for stopping by!