This week has been an emotional roller coaster of increased concentration and clarity.  Forced change, ruined keepsakes, new outlooks and hopeful yearning.  Without needing to go into details, I know that this caught-off-guard-curve will result in the regeneration of yet another new life for me.  That somehow through all the confusion and hesitation the smoke will clear and I’ll regain the sight of beauty I’ve always imagined.  Naively I anticipate what’s to come, almost dismissing the bliss I live every single day.  I don’t mean to be ungrateful (and don’t see myself to be), but sometimes your heart gets broken in the process of finding your way.  It can be difficult to shrug it off and keep going, knowing the best is yet to come.

Never before has it been more important  to continuously remind myself that those able to adapt to evolving change and temporary discomfort reap the most long term rewards.  When everything changes around you, and your immediate/familiar environment remains uncertain, you can only thank the heavens for the people who are your tried, tested and true rocks.  I think I’d have a breakdown if it wasn’t for my man.

I’m the luckiest bird in the world.

xox

[Photo credit: Tom Hoops]

It worries me sometimes that information is so accessible to younger generations coming into themselves now.  Does making things out of sheer boredom/isolation even exist anymore?  While information overload has no doubt accelerated learning, has it improved genuine innovation with kids?

Beyond the world of Barbie (who I love), and personas that have been pre-created through their own story lines, I’m lusting after the dolls with no history.  The ones whose identity you dream up yourself – with no one else to tell you how he/she actually is, or supposed to be.  I want my future children to get lost in their own worlds, writing the words they think are incredible and inspiring on the blank pages set before them.  Which brings me to these magnificent dolls.  Whimsy, beauty, art.  Who doesn’t want to recreate V(ink)cent Van Gogh’s story about his ear incident (above)?

Salvador Dali is a favorite of mine (above)… what a neat way for little ones to learn about history and culture!  Valentina (the incredibly gifted artist who makes each doll individually), also takes special requests.  You could have each member of your family made!

xox

I’ve come to a place in my life where I now use Pinterest, Tumblr, and Etsy as my primary search engines (google who?).  From storing ideas and pictures for later, to using tutorials to learn new ways of improving my lifestyle (and get my craft on), these three platforms feed me everything (listen up marketers).  It’s only natural then, when faced with the daunting (and expensive) task of discovering a new concealer and powder foundation, I consult my little black books of online curation.  There’s something for everything now, so why not makeup?

While I love the Sephora experience, I’ve never been able to justify spending $50 on a compact that lasts a mere month (I wont even start with the prices some brands are scamming for concealers).  Luxury?  Screw it, I need practicality, effectiveness and buildable coverage… without breaking the bank.  As a blogger I’m gifted many products I’ll likely never get around to using (there are only so many things you can unload on your family and friends), so these next tips/tricks are refreshing ways of rediscovering what I already have (and want to upgrade)… enjoy!

BLUSH/EYESHADOW

• Have baby powder and food colouring in your product stash?  Try this mix-only recipe for blush (you can even add in old or broken up powders to add more dimension to the colour).
• More of a cream blush kinda gal?  This quick blend takes the makeup you already have/love and unites them as one perfect whole.
• Sensitive skin reactions?  Make your own mineral blush with cornstarch and the pigment of your choice!
• This how-to has me wanting to use hibiscus pigment in big ways…
• I’m a big fan of the wet look when it comes to eyes.  I personally blame avant-guard editorials for my lust… here’s how to recreate without buying into the ever-creasing cream eyeshadow craze.

LIPS

• If you’re like me, you can never have too much gloss lying around.  Too-heavy lipsticks or wrong-shade blushes cramping your style?  Up cycle them into custom sheer or pigment-packed lip balms with only a few ingredients…
• Beet stain lipstick anyone?
• Love matte lips?  This isn’t really a make-it-yourself product, but instead a great technique to keep in the back of your mind…

MASCARA

• What do coconut oil, beeswax and charcoal have in common?  This DIY mascara (I’m yearning to make my own organic version)!
• Not a big fan of colour on your lashes?  This lash lengthening and DIY thickening serum is for you.

FOUNDATION/CONCEALER/BRONZER

• Foundation can be a bit of a sore subject for me since my skin tone is so light.  I also like more coverage on a whole – tricky when your skin is acne prone and oily.  The spices in this recipe will make sure you find the perfect tone, and even improve your complexion on a whole.
• I’ve already tried this concealer trick and love it.  Grab a too-light medium foundation and dry it up into an entirely new product (this recipe doesn’t mention leaving it out to dry with cheesecloth over the jar for a few days – a great add if you like a thicker consistency).
• Heavy workloads and long weeks robbing your skin of that well rested all natural glow?  Fake it till you make it!  I love that this bronzer is all held together by rosemary essential oils.
• No longer a fan of that gold eyeshadow you bought last year?  Why not transform it into a luminous highlighter?

Don’t even get me started with bath concoctions (I could go on for days about the tonics I love creating straight out of the pantry)… Have a recipe I’m missing out on?  Please share below…

Have a great start to the week – stay fresh faced and strong!

xox

This week has been especially action-packed, and I must confess – I’m looking forward to something of a lock-in this weekend with my man and pups.  I want to draw and drink obsessive amounts of tea, buy flowers at the market, sleep in, listen to jazz and laugh.  I’m starting to truly understand the down time need that moulds great ideas and boosts productivity.  Ironically, I’ve never felt more satisfied with the work I’m doing, even though it may all be happening at snail speed.  There comes a point when you really just have to understand that most of the world we live in is complete make believe.  Consequences can be twisted, happiness and clarity of mind repurposed regardless of your situation, and freedom found.  Starving artists have it right in so many ways… life is meant to be enjoyed and explored.  Slowed down.  While money enables many things, it is too much of a focus in our everyday thinking.  If you can pay your mortgage, be healthy, and live minimally/happily – all else can go to hell.

Phillip Lim

Alexander Wang

Balmain

Fendi

Jean Paul Gaulthier

Lanvin

Diane Von Furstenberg

Vera Wang

Looking to make the bare eye, big brow look your own (without having it wash you out due to a busy lifestyle)?  Opt for barely there eyeliner in the natural color of your lashes, pairing it with primers and clear gels/glosses to add umph and impact.  I’ve been using (and loving) Annabelle’s Skinny Brow Liner in Universal Dark, am pretty intrigued by MAC’s Brow Finisher, and love using Vaseline and lip balm sticks as a DIY version of traditional gloss (they make for a sleek eyeshadow alternative).

Photo credit [Style.com - all looks are from the FW13 collections]

Have a boldly beautiful weekend!

xox

While these will be over and done by the time I get there, their special edition collaborations have me in an ever page-refreshing tailspin (did you know you can build your own custom stroller online?  It even interactively rolls itself around when you press play… *starry eyes*).  The Sahara model (above), and Victor & Rolf collaboration have me torn between shoe shopping and saving up for one of these sweet rides…

xox

xox

I feel like I have it all in so many ways.  I’m blessed, and it’s not hard to see.  I’ve magically found my missing link (the man), live in my dream home with my dream dogs, am healthy and happy, and en route with my career.  Call me ungrateful, but is it so horrible to want to share it all with a brood of my own?  In my current environment, I don’t know why anyone would wait for the next steps when they feel so grounded with everything else.  Alas, I freak out.  I freak out because of how I want to provide for my family.  Not if I can.  It is a very tough thing fighting natural body and mind impulses to suit your surroundings.  While there are still quite a few things I need to come to comfort with, babies are definitely on the brain!  I won’t even bother going into detail regarding the array of locked Pinterest boards I’ve created in light of it all (thank my skyrocketing hormones).

What I’m Wearing

• DVF silk speckled dress
• MOON jacket
• GAP leather hobo bag (it’s softness is what hooked me in store)
• Forever 21 faux suede pumps

xox

Have a gorgeous, red makeup-wearing weekend…

xox

This weekend it’s grandpa hang time for the man and I.  Raw oysters, wine, classic music, and art documentaries.  We’re planning a snow hideout…

Have a beautiful rest ladies & gents.

xox

With the return of New York City’s notorious “House of Silence” (a name coined by the former Duchess of Windsor for it’s secretive and noble obscurity), the Erno Laszlo Institute is back in business -paying homage to the former doctor, after having unleashed a rare exhibit of the timeless and unforgettable Monroe.

Once only reserved for royalty, socialites, and silver screen stars of the highest regard (Gloria Vanderbilt, Greta Garbo, Truman Capote, Cecil Beaton, Audrey Hepburn, Hubert de Givenchy, Katherine Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy, Ava Gardner, Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly all being infamous clients), the Erno Laszlo Institute previously residing on Fifth Avenue in New York City over forty years ago, was the most exclusive beauty destination in the world.  With it’s official re-opening on West Broadway in downtown Soho to mark the brands 85th anniversary, devotees can indulge in custom and personalized skin care blends, in-house treatments, lifestyle prescriptions (including diet and fitness), as well as procedural consultations for a yearly membership fee of $3,000 (gym fees, you’ve officially got competition).

Based on their in-house advisor Dr. Scott Wells, M.D.’s youth asset management program titled Bio-Organic Rejuvenation, the Institute carries exclusive high potency, proprietary serums to address and heal the most severe skin concerns and cravings.  Refrigerated to preserve the concentration of the remedies, clients are treated to anti-wrinkle, plumping, brightening, radiance-boosting, firming, lifting, and intense moisturizing extracts to exercise the skin, improving it’s long term health and appearance.  Members (of which joining availability is already sparse considering it’s opening last November) enjoy monthly skin nutrition boosting facials, alongside regeneration peels promoting cellular regrowth and healing.

“There is no such thing as a miracle in a jar.  Only in your skin”.

- Charles Denton, CEO

Honoring perhaps the brands most intriguing regular, the Institute paid tribute to icon Marilyn Monroe last December by showcasing twelve in-house installations of Monroe’s personal belongings, privately owned by collector Ted Stampfer.  Never before seen in North America, the exhibit, showcased the very Laszlo products the star used up until her untimely death.  Amongst accessories, postcards, and notable clothing made famous through varying photo shoots and public appearances, was Marilyn’s last personal phone book (circa 1962).  With the numbers of friends and fellow onscreen co-workers (Richard Avedon, Montgomery Clift, Joe DiMaggio, Jack Lemmon, Yves Montand, Arthur Miller, and Frank Sinatra amongst others), appointments were available at the institute for those eager for a closer glimpse of the unseen.  Little interior decor pluses (available to view year -round): the dermatologists’ Lalique collection replicas on display throughout the institute (including on his rather remarkably imitated desk, upstairs in the consultation room).

To celebrate Dr. Laszlo’s special connection to Marilyn (the famed dermatologist developed the brands now iconic Phormula 3-9 Repair Balm from a recipe made to heal the actresses appendix operation scar), the brand launched their holiday collection of body care inspired by the glamour goddess alongside the exhibit.  With the weather being as it has been (wind-whipped and damp, leaving my skin stripped and sore), I’ve been relying on my jar for a springtime beauty resurrection (great as a night time fix for oilier types).

I could definitely use a facial though…

xox

P.S. What are your transitional skin savers?

It’s been a long time coming that I’ve wanted to share with you a bit of my newfound knowledge.  Hopefully you gain some insight applicable to your own lifestyle (and please note that the eating habits as described above were part of a cleanse, my body is now able to handle mainstream regularities once and a while).

Let me break it down for you…

1. Tea Tree Oil.  Made popular by the Body Shop’s stellar product line (at least that’s when I first heard of it/started using it), this all-encompassing oil ointment is a staple for both your beauty routine and first aid kit.  Great for drying up blemishes, toning, and sterilizing any open wound (careful not to bite your tongue while applying, it can sting substantially if you vouch for a higher concentrate), this go-to plant extract is an absolute must.  I love and use Desert Essence’s 100%  (and if you have acne-prone skin, check out their amazing oil-consistency face wash too).

2. Oregano Oil.  An absolute lifesaver when you’re sick.  It helped soothe my sore throat when I had strep (add a few drops to warm salt water, gargle for ten minutes, then enjoy some temporary relief), eliminates bad breath, and literally rids your mouth of bacteria and infection.  We often forget how vital good oral hygiene is to the rest of our bodies (think about it, everything you ingest goes for a nice long ride through the rest of your system, affecting organs and cells on it’s way).  Sickness in the mouth almost always translates to sickness elsewhere.  Unless you’re ill, try not to overdue it with this oil, you don’t want to strip away all the good bacteria too!  Oregano oil may have a forceful punch at first (I personally love brushing my teeth with it once a week), but over time you’ll be wondering why every mint and toothpaste doesn’t have the same gusto.  Look for a 100% organic formula (I find they are less oily tasting, and more spicy!).

3. Neem.  This extract is still new to my beauty/treatment palette, so my experience with it has been minimal.  While I can honestly say I’m no fan of it’s scent, it’s healing properties more than make up for it.  A great anti-bacterial, my man and I use it to keep external infections at bay (I’m a little paranoid when it comes to growths that stem from public places – especially in a humid/moist environment like a hot yoga room/mat).  If you have ongoing skin problems like acne, eczema, or psoriasis I’d urge you to give it a try.  It’s also a really amazing parasite and bug killer (take note fido owners), warding off the diseases tied to insects that can (literally) get under your skin.  Love beauty DIY’s?  Mix neem oil into your shampoo to help relieve an itchy scalp or dandruff.  I have multiple products with neem as an active ingredient (toothpaste included), and love that it’s a gentle alternative to abrasive disinfectants.

4. Probiotics.  They saved me during those days when nausea and stomach pain would set in after nearly everything I ate.  I have horrible memories of being bent over in pain downtown, unable to move on a bench – not knowing if I was about to throw up or if I could even make it back home on my own.  There has been a lot of buzz around probiotics lately, and I’m so happy so many other people are implementing them into their lifestyles.  I want to make sure everyone knows that you won’t get the same results from a serving of yogurt, as you will from a capsule supplement!  The most obvious reason?  The concentration.  I’ve used acidophilus as an antibiotic when I’ve suffered infections (it works, and in the same time your traditional medicine would).  I’m not going to lie, you definitely feel worse throughout that time, but the end result is not allowing something to completely strip your body of the good bacteria it needs to function healthily (I’ve gotten infections as a result of taking antibiotics for an infection… ironic, no?).  What do they do exactly?  Probiotics break down everything in your stomach, coating your system and allowing you to process everything a little easier.  Every time I take one (or two), I feel better.  Bio K is a great fly-by alternative to the ones offered at the health food store (you can find it at most pharmacies now – in both the refrigerator and digestive section), and there are different types available for specific uses (ask your naturopath which is ideal for you).  Rule of thumb: when you buy it, get it home ASAP!  The longer it isn’t refrigerated, the more the good bacteria die (they are living organisms).  If you can ask the store for a cup of ice to place your bottle in, even better.

5. Sea Buckthorn.  I think this has been my diehard obsession lately (even more so than all the rest).  It all started with sea buckthorn tea – a very neutral/refreshing tasting caffeine-free add to my at-home ritualistic life (the man and I drink obsessive back-to-back amounts of this).  Then the good folks at Seabuck Wonders stepped in and generously introduced me to their entire world of organic beauty products and omega-enriched supplements.  What I love about sea buckthorn, is that it’s a big time antioxidant (anti-aging buffs, listen up).  For fans of the ever-popular goji berry, sea buckthorn berries are sourced from the same Himalayan mountains (growing even higher in altitude), and offer up ten times more vitamin c than found in your traditional orange.  For those missing out on their essential fatty acids, sea buckthorn contains not only omega 3, 6, and 9, but also the rare omega 7 (found in whole dairy products, said to help lower cholesterol and build connective tissue in athletes).  A few added health bonuses: is said to fight cellulite and prevent fat storage, provide stronger nails, glossy hair, and glowing skin (sold yet?).

6. Pau D’Arco.  While we’re on the topic of tea, pau d’arco has been a longtime healing staple in my home.  I enjoy a cup of it every once and a while these days, but there were times when it was the only thing I’d drink.  It’s smell is more tree-like than it’s sea buckthorn citrus counterpart (it’s actually a bark from the taheebo tree – fungus and mould can’t grow on it due to it’s natural antibacterial properties), but this tea packs a big punch when you’re feeling less than.  It’s all encompassing makeup reduces fever, fights fungus, candida (what I had), diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer (all the while strengthening the immune system).  Just imagine an enjoyable, drinkable staple in your life that kills all the bad in your body on it’s pathway through your system (too visual?).  It’s the closest thing you’ll come to superman in a cup.

7. Silica.  This natural mineral is great for expelling and detoxing.  I take two chewable tablets every night before bed to rid my skin of blockages and buildup.  It has the same effect on boils, working rather harmoniously with your lymphatic system to constantly “flush out” your system.  In short, silica is the component in collagen that maintains skins elasticity (eternal youth revelation!).  You can credit your dewy complexion, radiant hair, and healthy nails to it’s properties (and use it’s supplement alternatives to add to your body’s own natural production of it).  Be warned: if you naturally have acne-prone skin and congested pores, your breakouts will only get worse before they get better.  Be patient and accepting, knowing all that gunk is leaving your body naturally!

8. Evening Primrose Oil.  Something I take at night to rehydrate my skin.  It’s a great preventative natural medicine that additionally softens the discomfort that PMS brings.  If you’re trying to conceive, it also counters infertility!  Something about it makes me feel like it’s a very ladylike/feminine addition to your health practice.

9. Grapeseed.  An amazing antioxidant that strengthens your veins and capillaries, also increasing blood flow through your body.  I’m a fan of the Caudalie skincare line, and the way I see it, this acts as a beautiful internal extension to the rituals and philosophy they promote.

10. Organic Olive Oil Body Scrub.  Every time I go to NYC, I hit the Sabon store (a recent find via my commute to the Lincoln Center during fashion week).  Not only is their golden sink in the middle of the store eye-catching, but their products heavenly.  The man loves it too.  Last time we picked up their amazing organic olive oil body scrub (which I also love using on my face before I go to bed) – the slight sting of the sea salt (also a natural disinfectant), is quite refreshing.  Highly recommended!

11. Musk Shower Oil.  If you love musk, you’ll love this shower delicacy (also from Sabon).  The fact that it’s also a sudsy, non-stripping cleansing oil is merely the cherry on top.  This is a product I would order by the case (if only they shipped to Canada, or flight baggage fees weren’t through the roof!).

12. Nat Phos.  A must-have if you frequently feel nauseous or bloated after fried or sugary foods.  This is like the natural version of Tums, breaking down heavy meals and offering relief after you’ve sampled one too many mysterious hors d’oeuvres.  Keep a bottle in your purse and forget about them.  You, or someone you’re with, will inevitably need a few.

13. Olive Oil Mud Soap.  Is there nothing better than a sea mud soap?  Or mud for that matter (when it comes to oily skin)?  Picked this slab up at (you guessed it) Sabon, but the local health food store also has it’s own great alternatives.  I use this in the bath, I use this alongside oil to take my makeup off.  It’s truly all-in-one deep cleansing goodness.

14. Magnesium.  Vital for allowing your body to repair itself and let up on physical strain and tension, magnesium is a mineral supplement for your muscles that acts as a relaxant.  Great for people with heart conditions, just as beneficial to aching athletes and stressed professionals.  Best taken at night as it can make you drowsy, helping you sleep.

What are your tried, tested and true beauty/health obsessions?

xox

The good folks at French Connection UK gifted me with a generous gift card to shop their current collection (and shop it I did).  If you haven’t already entered the Make A Scene contest they are currently hosting, check it out and share my video (I could win a trip down under)!  My immediate seasonal must-have upon trying some of the new SS13 pieces were the silk chiffon drawstring pants I’m sporting in these post pics (it’s all about aeration and fluidity in the summer heat).  Anything and everything baggy and fitted (does that make sense?) is on my hit list for spring/summer.  Just like the DVF collection displayed, my style mantra is all about outfits that double as fancy pyjamas (I’m in bed with them on as I type, so they’ve already passed the test).  Topped off with shrunken collarless blazers of course…

What I’m Wearing

• French Connection UK from head to almost toe
• Louboutin heels
• Celine-esque handmade leather handbag

xox

PS. Full blown daily eye makeup is also consuming my beauty senses currently.  Transitional weather is the perfect time to indulge before the humidity sets in…

I’ve developed the habit of stealing empty oyster shells from my entrees at restaurants to make at-home jewelry dishes.  When I’ve amassed enough of them, I’ll start painting their undersides gold and silver…

What I’m Wearing

• All Saints jeans and silk chiffon artists smock
• Lululemon built in workout bra top
• DVF leather jacket
• Etsy Celine-wannabe bag
• Louboutin silver booties
• Akoya pearl earrings & baroque pearl ring (both from Birks, both from my baby)
• Handmade recycled wool scarf (made for the man by me, but you see how that’s working out…)

xox

Drop me a comment below letting me know if you’re a traditional paint polish girl, or a big fan of the new-age peels, shellacs, and acrylics (I’m not sure I could choose even if you made me).  Tell me your favourite mani ways, and share for additional entries (you choose where – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest… just add in the links with your comment!).  Winner will be drawn at random on Easter (open to all the international babes out there).  Approximate giveaway value $140 (that’s a lot of nail art love)!

Good luck beauties!

xox

This week I had a little mental breakthrough.  I started looking at little things with admiration again.  Not with overdone idealism or unreflected acceptance, but at face value for what they’re each worth.  I’ve been finding beauty in the irritating, the challenging, and the annoying.  I feel like I’ve begun to understand the reasons why they exist.  It’s made me happier, and happier with a lot less.  There is so much weeding out we face daily (emotional, and physical).  There is no longer any good or bad.  They are all relative, all exactly identical in their sameness.  I feel elated and free.  I wish I could tell you how I got here, but it’s indescribable.  This weekend I can’t wait to get some spring cleaning done (clutter-free is the way to be).

A few things that made me smile/happy this week…

The guy who gives out the morning paper where I get out of the metro (he does this amusingly-intrusive skiddle that bothered me first, but which now inspires me to make the most of the everyday through consistency).  Painting my nails (I haven’t done this for myself in the longest time).  Hot yoga/kbox fusion class (I’m still recovering).  Being at the stage in my relationship where fights change and mean nothing.  Market visits after work.  Getting lost in fitness magazines.  Drinking a lot of water every day.  Blogging daily.  The fact that the workweek is officially over (rejoice)!