Ruffles and Rouge

Zig Zags

2012-01-19T16:20:00.000-08:00

I've been so obsessed with pinterest latley, and the one thing that keeps catching my eye are the gorgeous zig-zag chevron patterns. Here are a few of the item's I'm currenltly loving:

This gorgeous lamp shade, that I missed out out was only $20 from Target!!

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Audrey on Pinterest

Source: houzz.com via Joyce on Pinterest

Source: shopsosie.com via Lindsay on Pinterest

I saw this dress on the @Nateberkus show the other day, on the @cheapchicas 30 winter outfits look and I needed to have it. Of course it was SOLD OUT, but there was a backorder available and so I'm crossing my fingers that this little dress will find its way into my closet!

I've been eyeing this DVF Chevron dress for sometime, and this is the perfect alternative

Source: atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com via Aubrey on Pinterest

Holiday Red

2011-12-21T14:03:00.000-08:00

Small things make the days before the holidays a little cheerier. For those of us who are still sitting behind a desk and looking at a monintor instead of being off and joining the rest of the world in retail therapy (or I mean Family bonding time) we have to do what we can to make the best of it.

For me, that involved a few simple things...

New nail color, just in time for christmas - this time I went with an unusal read, for me anyway. It came in form form of two gelish shades (bad, I know). I have queen of hearts on all my fingers, with an extra coat of good gossip on my ring finger.

A good book and a rediscovered product - today they come in the form of these two:

Deconstroted Sammy and L'Occtaine

Holiday Decor in the lobby, it makes the morning a little less crazy...

Designer Spotlight: Nina Cortes

2011-12-20T16:23:00.000-08:00

I'm a bit of a Project anything junkie, I loved the original version on Bravo, and followed it when it went to Lifetime. Now some of you may argue that it lost some of its edge, but I stil think its an innovative show and concept, and always look forward to having it in my DVR.

So you're probably not that suprised that I've been loving the spin-off Project Accessory. This show is much more "me". I'm secretley obsessed with jewelry, most of you have a makeup collection, I do too (a small one) but its my accessories that I adore the most. A great bag, the perfect earring - those things really make my day!

This season my favorite designer has been Nina. I love her personal style, she had a modern spin on the beach life that really appeals to me. I'll let her work do the rest of the talking...

The complete look from the Kenneth Cole Challange

This necklace was intersting because it had a front and back,
and the metal was painted gold and black to give a three toned effect (I heart it!)

Source Clutch with versatile handle

Ins and Out: December

2011-12-19T09:31:00.000-08:00

Well hello there, I've been so busy with finals and the holidays

- so I though it might be time for a quick in and out post

Ins

Holiday Decor - there is something about this season that really brings out the inner Martha Steweart in me :). I've been looking for a new color/theme for our home, and I think I found it at Target :) These oraments were the inspiration behind the tree...

I posted a picture of the christmas tree on twitter here, but you couldn't really make out my favorite part - the lime green accents.

Holiday shopping - It's always to find an excuse to do two things: shop + make other people happy. This year has been all about the neices/nephews so those of you who are mommys or expert aunts - please send me some links/inspirations on what kids really "want" this year :)

Fringe - I took the plunge a few weeks ago, and I'm really loving it

Outs

Finals - need I say more? but the good news is I have my official graduation date, now its time to plan the party :)

The weather - I feel like a broken record with this one, but the weather has been really chilly, I guess I should expect it by now. There is an upside to this, now that I'm working in the city, I have all the reason I need to buy a new fun coat for winter... the only problem is deciding on which one

Rachel Roy Eye Palette

2011-12-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

I'm sure most of you know that I am a huge admirer of Rachel Roy. She is like epitome of beauty and brains. So I was so very excited to learn that she was venturing into the world of beauty by lauching an eye palette. I was even more suprised to see it sitting on my desk one day (after a very strong hint to the Mr.). So I thought I would share my thoughts on it.

I have to start with saying that I am a packing girl, it says a lot about the designer and I loved the abstract evil eye on the cover and the recylced packaging. (I'm not sure how it will hold up, but it defnitly looks pretty sitting on the vanity amongs the black sea of eye paletes)

Onto the inside, it's a traditional mirrored pallete with a dual set of shades (day on the left and evening on the right). I've taken two seperate shots so you can see the grouping of shades:

ShadesTop to Bottom: Galaxy, Balance, Fire, Energy and Dark Magic

Shades Top to Bottom: Celestial, Empyrean, Twilight, Infinite and Evil Eye

As for my thoughts, I really love the consistency of the eye shadows, they're smooth (velvety) and have great pigment. I'm suprised by the choice of colors for her day look, the rich amber shades are not what I see in most "neutral" palettes (thinking of UD) and it's a pleasant suprise.

I've only worn a few of the shades, and my favorites so far ar Energy and Dark Magic as well as Empyrean and Evil Eye. I'll have to give you an update on how the rest of the shades do - but I hope this is just the first of many more beauty offerings from her line!

Also, the brushes she includes are a really nice touch, they are soft and easy to wash. They are also perfect for blending in the crease and I like them better than the UD brushes that came in the book of shadows.

The most interesting thing about the pallete was the QR codes on the back, where you see tutorials on the eyeshades by Rachel herself. It's nice to see designers actually sharing their thoughts behind the makeup (or beauty products). It was really nice to hear her view on the "smokey eye" about being lived in and forgiving - not so technical.

Overall, I was pretty happy with the palette, I can see myself reaching for both day and night shades in the fall and winter especially - so the timing of the launch is perfect! Have any of you tried it?

Hello Youtube

2011-11-27T20:16:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a great thanksgiving! I have a little update to share....

For those of you who have been tried and true followers/readers of the blog - you know that I decided to leave YT about a year or so ago. My reasons weren't that special, I was very busy, the community as a whole was changing and I just ran out creativity for it.

A year or so later, I've given it a lot of thought and decided to come :) I decided to come back because I missed the interaction, and being able to share my thoughts. So if you are interested, I posted my first video this afternoon. You can now find me at youtube.com/rufflesandrouge

New York

2011-10-22T10:25:00.000-07:00

This summer has been pretty crazy, but with that comes the excuse for a nice break! This year, I opted for a small getaway to NYC. We spent about 5 days roaming around the city, I have to really give a big thank you to @amyroto for e-mailing me a lovely guide to the city! She's a great yt/blogger, so be sure to visit her blog at www.curlsandthecity.com

The weather was absolutley perfect, around 75+ degrees the entire time of the visit. There is something about that city that made me and the Mr. seriously contemplate moving..(crazy, I know) it was just full of life!

I'll leave you now with a small recap from the trip. (P.S. this was also my first time using my new camera, so please feel free to share what you think of the picture quality in the pics below)

Littley Italy

These were amazing, a little shop near Rockafeller

We all know who she is

I love this building, too bad I didn't have time for a proper tour

The "Friends" foundation, a fun pop culture fact from our pedi-cab guy @ Central Park

Me, a few hours before our flight left...tired, but already wearing things I purchased on the trip

Summer 2011 Ins and Outs

2011-09-21T23:34:00.000-07:00

Well Hello There! Remember Me? The girl who once blogged here. I know I've been gone quite a while, and well I can't say I've been out traveling the world or something equally as glamorous, I've just been busy.

I did want to give you all a little update, and what better way to start than with my Summer Ins and Outs

The City - I had an opportunity to return to one of my previous employers, and it was an opportunity I couldn't resist - this did however make for a very hectic summer but I am back in the city and really enjoying it this time around (minus all the FOG!)

NYC - I'll be heading there next month for a well needed break, but I am so lost - not even sure what neighborhood to start my adventure in!! Is it weird that I was browsing the SATC tour info online? lol

Project Runway - I've been loving the new season - anyone else with me?

New hair - I went lighter, much lighter this summer and I've really been enjoying it. I'm sure once the season starts turning I'll be wanting my dark hair back, but it's been a nice change. I haven't been able to figure out the whole new makeup with light hair thing - it's been quite a mix of experiments and no real holy-grail combination. Maybe this is where you all come in - any thoughts?

Excuse the bad cropping and photo job, I just thought I'd add a visual of the new hair :)

Outs

The weather - holy **#* the weather this year has taken crappy to a whole new level. I miss the sun, it's finally starting to warm up, but with the fog, it only lasts a few short and sweet hours (most of which I am in the office).

Missoni @ Target - I missed it. The ENTIRE thing, I had a lot going on that week, and by the time I took myself to the store it was wiped clean.. I actually saw a lady pick up an entire section of clothes (all sizes) and put it in her cart. I guess I know who will be selling her stuff on Ebay

Homework- I keep counting down the days, it'll all be over in December!

Lack of Blogging - I miss it, I miss interacting, and talking - I've been so MIA - but I have a new camera in mind, and finally enough time to return with some interesting posts to follow.

Sparkles

2011-08-26T22:51:00.000-07:00

Why Hello There!

I know, it's been a while - I took an unexpected break from blogging, both writing and even worse reading - it's been a crazy summer but I have finally gotten the motivation to return and thought I would start it off with a small haul from this week.

I am preparing for a trip to NYC next week (ok, I have to say this hurricane Irene - is a bit scary, considering I haven't been to NY since I was 16, and now I am going post-hurricane - let's hope for everyone's sake it doesn't come full gusto!) but back on track - I was shopping away at my usual go-to spot (Target of course) and discovered they had these beautiful Sally Hanser polishes on clearance. I've actually been looking for a while, but didn't notice they were no longer in the main stock until today.

What I really love is the size of the glitter, its large and bold

I also picked up two other polishes, Peachy by Revlon and Midnight Sky by Sally Hansen

I hope you have all had a great summer, I can not believe how fast it went by! I think these polishes are helping me get ready for fall, I am excited to try a few combinations - I'm thinking a few nude polishes with set the stage on top
What fall inspired items have you been purchasing?

Getaway

2011-06-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

What do you do when you're a little stressed out? Go on a getaway - even if its a small break!

I am not sure how you all are but one thing I love to do, but can't seem to find enough time to make it happen is to travel. The Mr. and I decided to get an early start to our one year anniversary so we booked a last minute trip to Santa Monica.

I can tell you that I did a whole lot of shopping, eating and lots of people watching and loved everyminute of it! The weather was a bit off - not sure what is going on with the June Gloom - but thought I'd share a few pictures.

The perfect cup of coffe

The most amazing bruschetta ever!

Enjoying the sunshine

An attempt at a FOTD
Dress - Express
Shoes - Dolce Vita for Target

the hotel room - I really loved the wall color, almost asked the hotel for the name of it

The View from the hotel - the whole reason for going out there - SUNSHINE! :)

May Favorites (a belated edition)

2011-06-12T22:04:00.000-07:00

Since I have had a long absence from blogging, I thought I would return with an easy post. My favorite things for the month of May. I know it's well into June one but hey, I can still recap :)

Where have I been you ask? I was finishing up my thesis at grad school, and am happy to say I did well but it kind of took over my life. I'm almost done with school but decided to take the summer off so I could take a mental break!

I actually have not been shopping as much since the blogging hiatus, maybe it's because I haven't been able to keep up with my blogs and YT. Funny how that works!

Here is a quick round-up of some of my May favorites...

Starting at the top: Elle decor, I received it as a christmas gift and have really enjoyed it. I have torn out a ton of inspirational images from it. I like seeing the different types of decor and finding ways to inspire myself to be creative in my home.

Next is the Sonia Kaushuk hair brush - I had been wanting a Mason Pearson brush but will make do with this for now. I love how it feels, no amazing hair changes yet, but it is a a great brush.

I also picked up Essie's Topless and Barefoot, and I absolutley love the color. I'm not sure if it was any better than other nude favorites, but anything with a cult following deserves a second look - so when I saw this at my local ULTA I decided to try it out. It's a fun summer color, a true nude, with no pink or peach understones, and works well with my skin. Some nude colors just don't work for me, but this one is great!

I also picked up a few random things including the Juice Couture Couture perfume. I was watching @5andra's video the other day and saw her mention how often she used this perfume and how she paired it with her other favories - and so here it is. I have been wearing it to work quite a bit, and am enjoying the lasting power. The next perfume on my list is the Jennifer Anniston one. Have anyone tried it?

Lastly, I picked up a summer inspired body scrub. The mint & melon fragerence combo is pure heaven. It's not too fruity or floral, which can turn me off when it gets really warm. It's a refreshing scent and the scrub is very rich so it leaves my skin very moisterized - post scrub - so its almost like a scrub and body oil in one.

On a random note: I am looking forward to going away this weekend. The Mr. and I have a small getaway planned for so.cal, all I know is that it involves lots of sun, lots of food, and hopefully lots of shopping. I'll twitpic if I get a chance :)

Hope you're all having a great summer! You'll be hearing more from me (I promise)

Decor Inspiration: Bookshelves

2011-03-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

When I start talking about home decor with friends or in general, the one thing that I always seem to bring up is my need for a home library. I usually get an odd stare, like there is something more important I should be doing with my square footage. But I don't explain or apologize, I love books and that's really what it's all about for me.

There is something so beautiful and homely to me about being surrounded by a ton of old books and magazines (I'm a bit of a hoarder of those as well). So until I get a little corner all to myself, I can enjoy inspirations from other beautifully designed and decorated bookshelves. Here are a few of my favorites:

The legendary DVF library (via Instyle

Big and Bold Via Flickr

Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere

Rachel Roy's Bookshelf (complete with her collection of bright yellow national geographic)

Chic Shelves via Maison Decor

Light and Airy (via apartment therapy)

Product Review: Lumene Vitamin C+ Radiance Lotion and Nectar

2011-03-24T13:06:00.000-07:00

I'm a big believer in happy accidents. Things that don't really have any rhyme or reason, but just end up being great solutions to your needs. That is exactly how I feel about my new HG skincare routine.

As you can see, I am already on my second bottle of the Vitaminc C+ Pure Radiance 24 h lotion, and half way through the Vitamin C+ Bright Skin Radiance Nectar.

I was inbetween finishing my previous skincare routine, and looking to try some Yonka products actually, when I was at CVS and thought I would try these out. I'm kind of a sucker for stats, and it had this huge display saying 84% of users saw brighter skin after using this combo - and that was enough for me.

About the products...

Pure Radiance 24 h lotion (left) Bright Skin Radiance Nectar (right)

Lumene Skincare - This specific product line has over 90% natural ingredients and is paraben free.

The Lumene Vitamin C+ Pure Radiance 24 h lotion, is a really lightweight lotion that can be used day or night (hence the 24 hour notion). The main ingridient in this product is the Artic Cloudberry oil - which also gives it a ligh yellow tint and a soft citrus smell. The consistency is very "gel" like, as in its very lightweight and absorbs into the skin instantly. Probably one of the quickest absorbing lotions I have ever used.

What they claim: This lotion is designed to leave a matte surface on the skin. With regular use it promises to normalize sebum production and helps to reduce the appearance of pores. Arctic cloudberry seed oil, which has natural antioxidants, protects the skin from stress factors.

The Lumene Vitaminc C+ Bright Skin Radiance Nectar, is a silky serum that is used underneath the moisterizer (day or night). The nector in this product is actually Artic Clouldberry nectar. The product is lightweight and absorbs pretty well.

What they claim: It gently exfoliates, minimizes pores and makes the skin look smooth. The detox properties of cloudberry nectar are designed to help make the skin look brighter and more radiant.

What I think:

I am defnitley a believer, after finishing one bottle of the 24h lotion, I can say that my skin looks really healthy. My acne spots are starting to fade, and when I switched from using this to the Yonka products, my skin broke out horribly.

I would say that the biggest thing for me is in how my skin feels after I use either product, and if I could use only one word I to desscribe it, it would be HYDRATED. There is something about this line of products that instantly add a touch of brightness and bring the skin back to life (in the morning) and help your skin stay hyrdated all night long.

I would defnitley repurchase (I already have), but like many of you I'm always looking to try new things, so who knows how long I'll be on this kick. I can that this has defnitley found a home in my bathroom cabinet and that speaks for itself.

In and Out March

2011-03-18T13:26:00.000-07:00

This past week or so has been very hectic, aside from working on my Thesis for school - I also managed to take a pretty nasty fall the other day in the Dining Room (graceful right?). So, I thought I would do a quick post to get my mind off all the crazyness and onto things that I really want to be thinking about :)

Ins

Spring - well the desperate need for it to arrive that is. I am really looking forward to having warm weather as my big project for this year is to make over our backyard and create an outdoor living space. I will defnitley be blogging about the process, so hopefully the weather starts to cooperate soon!

Organization - I just made over my home office, and am almost ready to show all of you all the hardwork I put into it! It's currenlty inside of our bedroom but I finally have a space where I can focus on work/school/and blogging now.

Rouge - more specifically, REAL color on the lips. I've been pale pinking it for way too long, and with Ms. Bubblegarm's new post about her Impassioned lipstick, I think I too need to get my hands on some colors this season.

Outs

The Catch All Bag - my shoulders are seriously telling me something. I've been using my Big Buddha Desnise bag as my work tote and school bag and I think it's time for something much, much smaller.

I really have been looking at the Rebecca Minkoff Mac Clutch - my question is do I go bright pink? classic black? or summer approriate ivory?

School - is there really anything more to say about it? I just really REALLY want this semester to be over.

Yonka - I was really excited to try the Pampalmouse - but it unfortunatley was too rich for skin so I ended up breaking out instead of getting the smooth skin I was hoping for. The good thing is that I ended up loving a skincare combo that I had picked up on a whim as a "temporary" solution (that blog post will be up on Monday)

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend - Rescue me on twitter if you can - I will be spending my weekend up to my neck in textbooks.

Target Designer Relaunch: My Picks

2011-03-14T00:52:00.000-07:00

I am a Target girl or (tar-jay) as I like to say. I can say that a good portion of my everyday staples are from that store, and I know I am not the only one. When I heard that @target would be relaunching some of their designer pieces from their Go International Collection on March 13, let's just say I was a tad-bit excited.

The Go International collaborations have been a great success for the store, some lines have been fabulous, while others are nice (but just not my taste). The store will be relaunching 34 dresses by 17 of the past designers.To see the full list of dresses visit Racked here

I was really excited to pick up a few pieces that I missed out on the first time around - so I logged in early this morning from bed on my phone and placed my order.I was hoping they would have the infamous mustard tule Rodarte dress, but alas no, they only had it in a peachy nude (which I picked up anyways) along with these two dresses.

Rodarte for Target Slip Dress in Peach

Below, is the original mustard Rodarte dress

Source

My other two picks were...

Thakoon (perfect for work) which I think is sold out already??

Thakoon Printed Tie-Waist Dress in Black/White

And the signature floral print by Tucker. I think it would look great as a mini so I think a little alteration may be in its near future.

Tucker for Target Signature Dress in Floral Print

Did any of you pick up dresses from the Re-Launch?

Stuck in a (Hair) Rut

2011-03-10T13:12:00.000-08:00

I'm a long hair kind of girl. It's a simple statement, but it means that for the past half century (or so). My hair story is really simple, I have long straight hair. Occasionally I've colored it, and now and then I add some bangs(fringe) and a few layers, but for the most part its been the exact same for years now.

This year, I've been tempted to make some changes, but my problem is that I am so lost.
I need something that adds some life back in (I'm thinking color or cut - maybe even both) but these long thin strands aren't doing me any favors.

I really like Lauren Conrad's new do...

And of course there is Olivia Palermo's Locks. I loved her old hair, but am really loving her new short look as well. (dilema, dilema)

And some other recent favorites...

So I'm not sure what I should do.... A new color? A new cut? Both? Any thoughts?? :)

My Week in iPhone Pics

2011-02-21T14:17:00.000-08:00

I saw the weekly iPhone posts on one of my favorite blogs I am Style-Ish, and thought it would be fun to try out. So here goes:

Last week was jam packed. Valentine's Day (which I don't make a huge fuss over, I'd rather have random gestures than one determined by the masses) was fairly quiet - just the way I like it. My favorite part is getting unusual flowers, I'm not a roses person so when the Mr. picked these up I was impressed, they both were part of our big-day at some point so it was a sweet thought :)

I've also been up to my neck in studying for school, mid-terms are coming up soon and well, it is never fun! This is a glimpse into what I've been working on...when I'd rather be reading the the Rachel Zoe book.

Lastly, online shopping has become my new guilty pleasure. Don't get me wrong, I've always shopped online, but recently it's become my go-to place for instant pick-me-ups. Mostly because I've been working from home a lot + spending most of my nights in school, so the amount of time I actually get out of the house has been almost null. One of my recent favorite purchase was the the Dolce Vita Rope Wedges for their limited line with Target. I thought these would be a perfect addition for Spring. Now if ONLY the weather cooperated!

Project Skincare: Origins Ginzing Eye Cream

2011-02-15T14:45:00.000-08:00

Staring off with my whole skincare effort, the first thing that I started with was eye cream. This had a lot do with the fact that I had been without one for well, way too long.

I was looking for something that would help me look "awake" in the morning. I have a crazy schedule, as do some of you I think, and I hated waking up with puffy sleepy eyes.

After some careful thought and a few dozen visits to the beauty departments, I settled in Origin's Ginzing

I've heard a lot of good things about the product, especially by a few YouTubers and when I was at the Origin's counter, the specialist there was raving about the product (while I was browsing) to her co workers. Little things like tend to "sell" me on the product :)

As for the actual product itself, its a very creamy light pink formula. It goes on really well, and is quite rich so a little goes a long way. It feels very cool when you apply it (due to the caffeine) so you feel it working instantaneously.

It works best for people that are in need of de-puffing and "awkening" in the morning. It has very subtle light reflects that also add to that brightening effect. It's not really meant for dark circles, so if you have a combination, this may not be the ideal product for you.

I've used the product now for a few months without switching over, and in my book that is a success. It's really helped me in the early winter mornings, and the best word I can use to describe how I feel after I apply it in the morning is refreshed.

I'm not sure if it's my HG, but it is def one of my favorite products thus far.

What are your favorite eye creams?

Project Skincare

2011-02-01T21:37:00.000-08:00

Towards the end of last year, I woke up one morning and took a good look at myself in the mirror and I was not too pleased at what I saw. I suddenly realized that my skin looked really tired and dull. This sort of caught me off guard, mainly because I had thought that I had taken so much time to "take care" of myself last year for the wedding. I just somehow forgot that all the treatments I pursued (Microderm and Peels) would eventually wear off, and I would be left with this dullness once again.

So there I was, and with no real need to pursue the salon routine, and had a thought. What if I made 2011 My Project Skincare year? And that is exactly what I am doing :)

The last few years have been more about makeup, and I've enjoyed every little minute of it, but I think it's time for a slight change. I've settled on some great HG makeup items, a lot of things have evolved (and will continue to do so).

With that, I took a drastic change in my skincare routine and after a few months of "testing" I thought it would be fun to share all of my experimental findings with all of you :)

I guess we can begin with what I was using BEFORE

2010 Skincare Routine (Used Regularly)

Face wash - Biore Pore Minimizing Cleanser / Cetaphil Cleanser

Moisturizer - Olay Regenerist Lotion

SPF - Elta MD SPF 46

Night Cream - Olay Regenerist Lotion

Eye Cream - Avon (if used at all)

Eye Treatment - Garnier Eye Roller Ball

Acne Treatment - Murad Spot Treatment

Peels - Skin Effects Glycolic Peel 2 step program

Makeup Remover - Neutrogena Wipes / Neutrogena Makeup Remover

Lip Treatment - Burt's Bees

Exfoliator - Neutrogena Blackhead Removing Scrub

Face Mask - NONE

That is where I was...the next few posts will help you all see where I am now.

Hope you enjoy this little adventure with me :) What are you doing this year??

Product Review: Mario Badescu Masks

2011-01-09T23:36:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a fabulous time during the holidays with your friends and family. I can say that I really enjoyed the time with the family and friends...but have missed all my fellow bloggers and readers so it is so nice to be back :) Over the last few months I've been experimenting with masks. I have to be honest and say that I have been very inconsistent about using a face masks. When I had acne issues, I was a little more reliant on them, mainly the proactive mask (Which I'm sure you are all familiar with). But it was time to branch out, so on a random trip to Ulta, I decided to try out two of Mario Badescus masks.

I was a little torn on which one to purchase, I was intersted in the enzyme revitlizing mask - but the sales lady talked me into the super collagen mask, and so I came home with both and right in time for the holidays

The Enzyme Revitilizing Mask - This product has seriously become my new HG. It softens and brightens my skin like no other. I'm the type that tends to prefer softer,gentler masks and this one is perfect for that. I leave it on for 20 minutes or so, and as soon as I wipe it off, I notice an immediete change and they results are even better the next day. I am trying to maintain this at least once a week (although it states you can use it up to 2-3 per week if you wanted to). I've used it now for about 2 months, and I've noticed and have ben told that my skin looks a lot fresher and softer.

Another thing I really like about this mask in particular is that its a softer exfoliant (no sugar, so salt, etc.). It also has a really pleasant citrus smell, so its not overwhelmig or unappealing at all.

The Super Collagen Mask - I probably should of stayed with my initial instict not to purchase this mask. There is nothing wrong with it, but I think that it would be much better suited for skin that was a bit more mature than mine (I'm thinking this will be in my Mom's cabinet soon). The mask is a typical dry once applied type of consistency. It's a bit thicker than I would like (think queen mint julep) but with a much ligther smell (def a plus).

I just think it would be more beneficial for firming and restoring collagen and elasticity to older skin and is not really the product for me at the moment. I do like the consistency, and would reccomend it to others. Not bad, not good, just indifferent about it.

What are some of your favorite masks - homemade or purchased (I'm in the mood to experiment)

Five Things

2010-12-13T13:17:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Cupcake and Cashmere's post,

Here are my Five Things (The Christmas Version)

Metalic Hues The whole tree is shades of metal (gold, silver, and bronze)
It was a nice change from the traditional colors, and with it being
our first christmas as Mr. & Mrs. the metalic hues add a little
a touch of glamour to the whole house.

Baking is one of my favorite things, and it goes into overdrive

during the holidays. I picked up these cookie cutters at Michaels

and look forward to making & decorating a few batches

for the munchkins (and adults) this season.

I have a small problem with it comes to decorating supplies, I tend

to go overboard with collecting ribbons, paper and gift toppers.

Bells were one my favorite toppers last year, this year I have a creative

use for confetti (maybe I'll do a quick tutorial in a future post)

When it comes to the holidays, I feel like the whole house needs subtle

doses of the holiday spirit. One of my favorites is this metal gift box that

sits in our entry way. I've filled it with oranments and bows that are a little

retro and I think it adds just the right touch.

Lastly, I grew up in a house where gardening was a major thing.

So each year I look forward to purchasing poinsettas. It may

not be actual gardening, but their red color instantly reminds

of the holidays and bit of my parents house too.

Coffee Anyone?

2010-12-02T12:28:00.000-08:00

With the weather finally turning cold, I've found myself in search for a new coffee mug. It may just be me, but I love finding unique pieces. They are a great way to spark conversation when I have people over for the holidays and in this family we can never have enough coffee or tea so they come in pretty handy. I think it would be appropriate to share a few that have caught my eye. Especially with the gift giving season nearing, they may be a great alternative to the traditional hostess gift.

1. Anamorphic Coffee / Tea Mugs

2. Mustache Coffee Mugs
3. Tunisian Tea Glass

Lip Pencil and a slightly late Halloween Outfit

2010-11-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

I was in Ulta the other day and thought I could use a new lip pencil or two, I randomly stumbled upon NYX's Soft Fuchsia and it has surprisingly been a staple for the past few days.

I left it in my car today, and so when it came around to taking pictures of it, I had a very messy product so I apologize!

It's a really pretty color, the perfect nude for winter.

I'm paler so I want a little color in my lips and this is really subtle but nude at the same time.

On a random note....

My Halloween Costume

I bought my costume on Saturday (just a tiny bit last minute...) but it turned out pretty well

As much as I loved the costume, the skirt (mainly the spandexy material of the skirt) was not working for me, so I grabbed a skirt I had laying around and threw it over. I don't think anyone really noticed but I felt a lot more put together :) I wore boots - so please excuse the socks in the picture.

Rainy Days

2010-10-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Just a few of the things I've had on my mind for the fall...mainly rain boots. It'll be my first official pair, so I've been looking into a few options and these seem to be the front runners. Also I added a few umbrellas I would like add to my collection :) mainly the Pagoda. What are some of your favorites?

1. Hunter Original Black $125
2. Hunter Original Beige $125
3. Burberry Equestrian Knight Rain Boots $225
4. Burberry Studded Wellington $395
5. Bubble Umbrella $30
6. Pagoda Umbrella $105

Decor Inspiration: Accent Walls

2010-10-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

Not sure what it is about them, but I've been obsessed with accent walls lately. I feel like I've been seeing them everywhere and it may be a sign that I need to have one in my house too. However, in all honestly, the one thing that always intimidates me is the intricate pattern and the time needed to complete them. I adore them so much, but I don't know if I would be able to really pull it off to be honest.

So in the meantime, you can join me in my daydreaming and I'll keep you posted on whether this becomes a reality or not :)

A fantastic DIY effort - see how here

One of my all time favorites - Joseph Cortes

Wall Paper

Another amazing DIY effort - see here

What are you currently obsessing over?