I have a blush-hued Alexander Wang Jane bag and I’ve been carrying it lately since I’m in a spring wardrobe state of mind. It also got me thinking that I’d like some other lighter toned options in my handbag collex. These are some of the beauties that caught my eye:

McQ Alexander Mcqueen Eggshell White Slashed Leather Shopper Tote

Alexander Wang Small Champagne Leather Marion Prisma Shoulder Bag

Carven White Cotton Pique Safari Tote

Proenza Schouler Grey + Banana Yellow Leather Ps1 Pouch Shoulder Bag

3.1 Phillip Lim Small Pale Grey Nubuck Lark Small Duffle Bag

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This Shopbop lookbook speaks to me on so many levels. I love pretty much everything that Helmut Lang does, so I’m definitely coveting the clothes here. But it’s also serving as a major source for overall style because the model’s hair is just the look I’m going for these days. I need a little trim and maybe a touch lighter, but I’m basically there. I love the ease of the cut, with its messy waves, and the color is crazy gorgeous and bright. But back to the clothes… I’m using these pics as outfit inspo, with some existing pieces I can put many of these looks together but I also can’t wait to get some of the new arrivals from Helmut Lang in my closet asap! Visit Shopbop.com to see (and shop!) the full lookbook.

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Am always more than happy to get a little sample pack of goodies from MAC’s PR firm. This time they hooked me up with three items that became part of my daily beauty routine immediately after the first application. I was definitely looking for a little spring update for my beauty routine. Since I tend to go for a very clean, classic, minimal look for everyday makeup, I wanted a lighter and pinker blush for spring. I never would have guessed it but MAC Baking Beauties Pearlmatte Face Powder in Pink Buttercream, a limited edition blush/highlighter works really well on my pale complexion.

I also decided that since I’m going for such a simple/nude look for the rest of my makeup, I need to play up my eyes a bit more. Adding an eye liner does the trick. I’m loving MAC Penultimate Eye Liner in black. It’s super-easy to apply. I line the edge along the top lashes and use MAC False Lashes Extreme Black mascara to finish things off. More importantly, this is a quick addition to my makeup routine, which is essential for my crazy busy lifestyle. I wish I had time to play with eye shadows and do a gorgeous blend of three hues for an incredible lid but honestly don’t have the time or the patience. So a simple nude across the lid, liner and mascara works for me.

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I spotted these beauties on Instagram a week or so ago and fell in love with them instantly… I’ve been thinking about them ever since. You see, I’ve always admired the Valentino Rock Studs (as everyone else has) but never splurged because I feel like everyone has them and the mass market retailers have already done their damage by knocking them off. But the micro stud, that is so me. I’m 100% in L-0-V-E with these chic little sandals and very much hoping to get them into my closet as soon as possible. This will of course require a fashion budget splurge or a gamble (waiting to see if I can score them on sale). We’ll see. But if you’re lucky enough to have the fashion funds to get them now, I saw do it because these are incredibly chic shoes. MadisonLosAngeles.com has them in black and white.

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A while back I gave you a look book preview of Heidi Merrick’s Spring 2013 collex. I’m sure that you, like me, were eagerly awaiting the arrival of these pieces for purchase. The time is now and I should also mention that some of the beauties are selling out. These are some of the awesome and fun pics that HM is using to show off her latest. I’m smitten with the photography and clothes. It’s time to narrow down my choices and decide which items will become my wardrobe staples this summer. Top contenders include the Fog Blouse and Ash Dress. Shop the full collex online at HeidiMerrick.com or Shopbop.com [select pieces]. I’ve also included some other cool shots from the look book photo shoot … just because Heidi’s pics are always SO good. Definitely Pinterest worthy!

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There’s nothing like indulging in a hot bath with a luxe body products. I’m a big fan of Aesop bath and body products and was intrigued to see that they recently launched a collaboration with Finnish design house Marimekko. Inspired by the rituals of Scandinavian bathing culture, the Aesop-Marimekko Sauna Duet includes a body scrub and body balm both infused with the essential oils of fir needle, sage leaf and pine needle designed to detoxify your skin. The body scrub uses fine-milled pumice to gently exfoliate your skin. The body balm has Vitamins E, F, and D and left my skin soft and supple. This lush combo is the perfect way to treat myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

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It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of Laura Mercier cosmetics. I also adore the line’s scents and bath products. My latest obsession? Le Petite Patisserie Travel Candle Trio, which is a limited edition candle sampler that features three yummy gourmande scents (Fresh Fig, Almond Coconut Milk and Crème de Pistache). The three glass votives can be switched into a portable candle carrier that’s great for travel. But I don’t need to be in a hotel to indulge in the delicious luxury of these scented candles. Almond Coconut Milk is perfect to help me relax while in the tub, the tropical scent conjuring up my next beach getaway. Crème de Pistache sweetly scents my bedroom. And my fave—Fresh Fig—is perfect for lifting any odors from my kitchen. The set makes a great gift—in fact, it’s what I will be giving my own mom this Mother’s Day.

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I just got back from spending a week in Mexico. I had a fabulous time, but my hair took a beating. I was at the beach or the pool almost every day and I returned home with hair that lost its luster. My first day back from vacay, I applied Pure Vibrance Hair Revitalizing Masque and to my great relief, my hair is shiny and soft again. Enriched with Argan oil, rice, artichoke, and Hawaiian white ginger root, the masque is thick and rich and worked in just one application. Lucky for my high and low-lighted strands, it also helps prevent against fading after a color treatment. This is one hair product that has found a permanent home in my shower.

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Helmut Lang remains among my favorite and most frequently worn brands. I love the edginess and cool details they bring to great basics. These are pieces that can always be layered (something I do on a daily basis) and the fabrics are always luxe. I have my eye on this new hooded jacket from the pre-fall 2013 collection. I like that it gives a subtle nod to the army jacket trend but with a look that is totally unique and a fabrication that begs for a closer look. It looks totally worn in and amazing, as if it’s been in your closet forever… something I hope I can say about it five years from now! Get it at LaGarconne.com 

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