Drunk Elephant "The Littles" - An Honest & Unsponsored Review

Hi lovely reader! Hope you are staying safe and doing well! I've been wanting to write today's post for a while but thought it would be best and most helpful to wait and truly have used these products for some time before giving my feedback. I received Drunk Elephant's "The Littles" set for Christmas and have been using them consistently ever since which has given me a good grasp on how my skin reacts tot these products, what works and what doesn't and how long they last. As with most things beauty related I love to do my research before purchasing especially when it involves spending a bit more money, so I hope this post is helpful to anyone thinking about buying this set or any of these products individually! I have also provided links to the products but please not they are not affiliated (this post is not sponsored in any way)

To start I also want to note my skin type as everyone is different and it definitely has an impact on how certain products work with you. I have a very oily t-zone, and deal with blackheads on my nose. My forehead I would say is the least sensitive part of my face and my chin is definitely the most sensitive. So if you can relate to any of that you may have a similar experience with these products.

Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser: I use a pea sized amount of this cleanser in the morning and at night. It definitely makes my skin feel fresh and clean and cleared the layer of oil or makeup residue from the day. The nice thing I've found about this cleanser is that a little goes a long way so even the sample size in this kit has lasted me about 4 months. I would recommend this product if you are looking for a gentle yet effect daily cleanser.

C-Firma Day Serum: Of the 8 products in this set, this one definitely surprised me the most! I was a little weary starting out how my skin would react to this, especially my chin area but I did not have any issues. This serum is where I saw a noticeable difference in my skin, I definitely am on the paler side (not mad about it) but using this daily has improved the pigmentation of my skin. Not to say it's made me a bronzed goddess but I can see a visible difference 5 months in with my skin looking brighter. It has also helped even out areas where I have had redness from breakouts in the past. I like to put a pump of the B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum and a pump of this serum in my hands, mix them and then apply to my face in the mornings. Like I said before I have been using this since the end of December and this sample size has still not run out.

B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum: This serum is really nice especially as it has started to get warmer because it is super hydrating but extremely light weight. As someone with oily skin I wasn't exactly sure how intensive hydration would work but it has actually helped combat the oiliness. I think by using this in the morning and having that hydration, my t-zone doesn't produce as much oil as before which has been nice. It definitely hasn't cured the oiliness but it does help to slow down and I don't shine as quickly as I used to, especially if I'm not wearing makeup.

T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum: This is one of my favorite products in the set! I use it at night after I have exfoliated and apply a thin layer all over my face. It just leaves your skin feeling fresh and also helps combat oiliness which is great. I apply a layer of moisturizer on top once it has set and am ready for bed! 

C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream: This eye cream really is amazing and I am saying that in all honesty. The texture is great and you can really feel the hydration. I can also notice a difference in the feeling of my skin if I don't use it. I had gotten samples of this last year from Sephora when trying to find an eye cream and I loved it so I was excited to have a larger and longer lasting amount of product to use. I tend to use it more in the morning than at night but you could really use it both or either.

Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30: One of the first concerns I had when checking out the products in this kit was that the moisturizer didn't have sunscreen to it. I am a big believer in wearing some sort of SPF during the day whether you're out in the sun or not. Especially if you're sitting in front of a computer all day or in your car a lot! So when I saw they had a sunscreen I was like okay let's give this a go, we'll just add another layer. I haven't gotten to give this a proper beach or "day at the pool" go but for everyday it's great. Like everything else it is super light, dries really easily and doesn't leave a greasy feeling like so many other sunscreens. 

Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil: This facial oil is by far the cutest "little" in the set. It has a tiny glass dropper and like all Drunk Elephant products, the packaging is super chic. However I am sad to say that this product is the one (and really only one) where my skin was not having it. It's not like I can't use it at all but around my chin area (which is the most sensitive) it has caused me some small breakouts (nothing huge or super dramatic) but I think applying direct oils to my face just doesn't work for my skin type. I could see how this could be really nice though it you do deal with dry skin or dry areas.

Protini Polypeptide Cream: Last but not least this lovely luxurious moisturizer. It's light, creamy, not greasy at all and hydrating. It feels really nice to apply and my favorite part is how quickly it sets into my skin. It absorbs almost immediately so there is no residue or greasy feeling. 

Of the 8 products my top 3 that I would say would be worth the full size splurge would be the Protini Polypeptide Cream, C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream, and the C-Firma Day Serum. The nice thing about all of these products is that a little goes a long way and I have noticed visible improvements in using them regularly!

I hope those notes were helpful to you if you are considering purchasing the set or any of the products individually. Would love to hear your experience with them as well and what your favorites are. XX

My 2020 Quarantine Skincare Routine

Hello lovely reader! Happy almost New Year! I put together a little summary of my "Quarantine Skincare Routine" aka the products I have been using and loving over the past few months. The great thing is that the majority of them are drugstore brands meaning you definitely don't have to break the bank to create a nice little routine. As far as a skin type, I have a very oily t-zone, and deal with blackheads on my nose. My forehead I would say is the least sensitive part of my face and my chin is definitely the most sensitive. So if you can relate to any of that I would highly recommend giving any of these products a try. I have also provided links (which are not sponsored or affiliated) in case you want to check anything out!

Soap and Glory Vitamin C Facial Wash
This product is great for getting some exfoliation into your routine. It leaves your face feeling fresh and smooth, especially if you use it with some type of spin brush. It also has a great scent to it!
Dermalogica Clear Start Foaming Wash
This face wash is a bit more of a splurge but I have found that it really works well with my skin type. It definitely helps to control the oil on my t-zone and is also great to use as a follow up to the Soap and Glory wash. 

PMD - Personal Microderm - Classic
This was my quarantine "self-care" splurge. I ordered it in the spring and can honestly say that it is worth it! When you factor in how much Microderm facials cost and the fact that a lot of places are closed right now it actually is a great deal. I have found that using this once a week has helped with the redness/scars left behind by breakouts on my chin area and the oiliness of blackheads around my nose. I will say that this doesn't suck out blackheads but removes layers of dead skin cells, so if you use if consistently it can help with appearance of black heads but will not remove them all at once. It also makes your skin super smooth and helps it to absorb any product that you apply afterwards. A lot of places carry this product too and I have seen it go on sale a lot so keep an eye out if you're looking for a deal.

Thayers Witch Hazel Alcohol Free Toner
This is a great product to try if you are looking to introduce a toner into your skincare routine. It is extremely affordable and I have found it to agree with the sensitive areas on my face which was my main concern. They do offer an unscented version which I would recommend over this Rose Petal one (bought it by mistake) and even offer it in little travel sizes if you don't want to buy a big bottle to start. 

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Creme
This product would also fall under the splurge category in my book but again it is definitely worth it. The cream has a great scent and texture to it. It gives you a glow for those days when you don't wear makeup (everyday since March) and really does feel hydrating when applied.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer
It's a classic and it works! This moisturizer is great for the winter because it is a bit heavier and I don't know about you but since turning the heat on, the air in my house is dry!! It also has SPF in it which is important to wear year round.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque
This mask is perfect to use if you feel like your skin needs a moisturizing boost. Even for someone who has oily skin this is great to use every so often, the next day I can totally notice a difference and it doesn't cause breakouts for me in my more sensitive zones when is a huge plus. I would recommend using this once a month if you have oily skin and if you have more balanced skin every few weeks.
Origins Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask
Tried and true, and much used as you can tell in the photo, this mask is great for detoxifying your skin. I can tell for even for a day or two after as I have less redness in areas that were previously irritated and again it doesn't aggravate anything either. I try to use this once a week, typically at the end of the week.
Feeling Beautiful Facial Polishing Masque with Charcoal and Black Sugar
This mask is great and I actually use it in the shower. I'll apply it right about halfway through and then scrub it off at the end. This is also a great option to bring some exfoliation into your skincare routine especially in the winter months! Great to use a couple of times a week!

And that is my routine! I hope these reviews were helpful and maybe inspired you to try out some new products! Xx

Wearable Positivity | MantraBand

Hi lovely reader! I hope you are staying safe and well in these challenging times. I wanted to take a minute to share a brand with you that I discovered a few years back that spreads positivity and I have become a true fan of, MantraBand. That being said this post is not sponsored, just simply sharing something that brings me joy in the hopes it can bring some positivity or encouragement to you or someone you know too! 

I've collected a nice little stack over the years as gifts from others or a gift to myself. As someone who is very much inspired by words be it quotes or mantras, I connect specific lines to various times in my life. These bracelets have become a wearable reminder of what I've been through and what I can do.

They have also become my "go-to" gift item for friends and family. Everyone I have ever given on to has loved it because it's personal and meaningful. They are fantastic quality without being expensive and have great sales throughout the year on their website! 

Odds are if you have a favorite quote or mantra they will have it! If not, they do offer a custom option too.

Here are the links to the bracelets above:
"She is clothed in strength & dignity"
"Faith over fear"
"Nevertheless, she persisted"
"She believed she could, so she did"

I hope you check out these bracelets and find something to inspire you or someone you love! Xx

Hunter for Target | Wishlist

Hello lovely reader! Last month I was beyond intrigued when I saw that Target's latest collaboration was going to be with Hunter. My first encounter with the Hunter brand was purchasing a pair of their Original Boots Tour Rainboots which are top quality and my go-to for rainy days. I studied them for a semester long project and they really are a class brand. Their products continue to move forward yet stay true to the British brand's identity. I love their styles, imagery, marketing, and could not wait to see what this new endeavor would bring.

After previewing the collection online the other day all I can say is they did not disappoint. The prices points are soooo reasonable! There's a diverse range of options from apparel and boots to coolers and hammocks. I'm most interested to see what the quality will be like but quite frankly I don't believe Hunter would but their name on something that wasn't good, so I have faith! I pulled together my top picks that I will be aiming for this Saturday April 14th when the collection becomes available below.

Hooded Trench Coat

Super chic and versatile with a stripe detail to give it a sporty feel, love.

Exaggerated Sleeve Sweatshirt Dress with Pockets

Okay so I didn't even realize this had pockets until I went back to see the proper title....sold!

Embossed Sweatshirt

I am all about a nice classic logo crewneck and really like how this one is embossed rather than screenprinted.

Medium Backpack

This shade of purple is one of my favorite colors and I think this bag would be perfect for travel days or outdoor adventures.

Cooler Backpack

This would fall under the category of "I don't actually need this but think it's really cool so maybe I do..."

Bubble Umbrella

I like bubble umbrellas and Hunter and the pink is cute for spring showers, done.

So these are my favorites from the collection! What pieces are you hoping to snag? Xx

The Limited Edition Epigraph Collection | Warby Parker

Hello lovely reader! I hope you are doing well. Today I am very excited to help Warby Parker announce their new Epigraph collection. After learning about the meaning behind it and seeing some of the images, I can honestly say that I really like it! Authenticity when posting is something that I believe to be important. If the brand or product is not something that I genuinely like, would buy, or care about, I am not going to talk about it. So believe me when I share things like this that it is sincere! Not only do I admire them as a business and for the great charity work that they do, but I also like their aesthetic and the thought that goes into their collections.

The "Epigraph Collection" is the title of this newest line with glasses and sunglasses in styles ranging from classic smart, to rectangular and even a bit of a cat eye. When speaking to them I learned that they "employed a custom metal end piece with an integrated hinge, which elevates the frame’s aesthetic." These Italian-made frames and metal details give a modern twist to each look.

You may be wondering what an "epigraph" is, as I was, so I did some research. The definition of an epigraph is, "a short quotation or saying at the beginning of a book or chapter, intended to suggest its theme." As soon as I read this, I started thinking about how I often use fashion, my choices of what I wear and how I accessorize, as my own physical version of an epigraph. What I choose to wear can offer a summary of who I am or how I am feeling on a certain day, what my "theme" is. I believe that for many of us how we present ourselves offers a great insight into who we are or who we want to become. That is one of the reasons why I love fashion and this industry so much. 

I have picked out a few of my favorites below that can help to shed some insight on your theme of the day.

You may be feeling nostalgic and want to have a good 50s/60s cat-eye throwback with "Louise". I love the dusty pink color of these glasses with the mix of darker shades.

I really like the simplicity of these glasses especially in black with the rose gold metal detailing on the sides. One word...Smart.

Or maybe you want to amp up the sophistication with the Alcott style. I immediately picture these glasses with a crisp white collared shirt tucked into some navy tie waist dress pants and a bold lip.

My very favorite pieces from the line are the Winnie sunglasses which come in pink and black. So gorgeous! The black has a lovely rose gold metal detailing and the I love the shade of pink for the spring with the gold detailing.

Thank you to Warby Parker for the chance to get an early preview of the latest collection and giving me the opportunity to share it with all of you! I also would like to say that I am not getting paid for this post or if you click any of the links. 

November Favorites

Hi lovely readers! "The most wonderful time of the year" is almost upon us and I am so excited! I cannot wait to start doing all things Christmas but am enjoying the fall while it lasts! The leaves have been extra gorgeous this year and the weather has been ridiculously nice for this time of year. To wrap up the fall I wanted to share some of the things that I have been loving this past month with you all.

IJOY Soul 360 | This purchase was made somewhat on a whim as I was still using my iHome speakers from YEARS ago, cord and all and was beyond due for an upgrade. I picked this speaker up at TJ Maxx one day not having done any prior research and I was pleasantly surprised to find that this speaker is really nice! It's small enough that it is easily portable and the sound quality is great. The battery lasts long and is able to be charged by usb which is convenient. Of course the bluetooth element is the best part, no cords no mess. I also like the sleek and clean design. 

"New Rules" Dua Lipa | Staying on the topic of music, I have had this song on repeat since it first came out. Not only do I love this song, but I am also a fan of Ms. Dua Lipa. I first discovered her when I was living in London and "Be the One" was being played everywhere! Her vocals are so now and unique and effortlessly cool. I love the beats and mixes of her music. The "New Rules" video is classic California vibes mixed with modern tones and flamingo flocking.

"Flicker" Niall Horan | "The Thrill of It All" Sam Smith | Last for music, I have been loving these two albums. First "Flicker" is Niall Horan's debut solo album (former or current One Direction member, depending how you look at it) and it is the perfect soundtrack for taking a long drive on a fall day. Easy smooth music with lots of guitar and lovely lyrics. "The Thrill of It All" is Sam Smith's sophomore album...he is back and better than ever. A voice that cannot be matched, this album will take you to church. His vocals are so unreal and you can feel and hear the honesty in each and every song!

Dynasty | I'm not usually one to get into scripted TV series but Dynasty has got me hooked. The fashion is to die for and I am all about Fallon's quick comebacks and remarks! Also a fan of Liz Gillies and think she is perfect for to play her character. The show is a modernized version of the 1980s soap and while I wouldn't really call the 2017 version a soap it does have it's drama some corny and predictable but this weeks episode had me full on immersed and featured quite the plot twist! You can catch up on the CW's website.   

Duolingo | It has always been a goal of mine to learn a second language. I took the basic Spanish classes that are required in High School but retained basically nothing and have always wanted to learn French. So last month after hearing a guy speaking French in the grocery store, I told myself it was time to start learning! Duolingo was the first and top rated website when searching for a free outlet and after using it for the past few weeks, I can honestly say that I feel like I'm learning. The way it teaches you is really fun and makes each level feel like a game or a challenge to complete!

Reviews.com | This website is great if you are someone who wants to read reviews and get the best products in their category but doesn't want to do all the digging and constant scrolling. You can simply type a product category or scroll to the bottom of the homepage and choose one and they will give a page with the best products and runners up. But whats is even better is the amount of research and explanations they give as to why they say things are the best. You can get the 30 Second low-down or scroll through the whole page to get more details. I've also been using it a lot recently for holiday shopping.

Hoop Earrings | Short and simple, different shapes and sizes, I like them and enjoy pairing them with street styles or more dressed up looks.

Pumpkin Pie Larabar | Last but not least, these Larabar's have been my go-to this month when I am craving a sweet snack. They are non-gmo, gluten free, vegan, diary free, and soy free and have super simple ingredients making them a healthy "safe" snack. They do actually taste like pumpkin pie and the texture mimics it as well! And now for December it's time to stock up on the gingerbread and snicker doodle flavors!

What have you been loving this month?

A Dress with Pants Moment & Green with Envy | Oscars Red Carpet 2016

Hello lovely reader! The Oscars 2016 are currently upon us and the red carpet was full of stunning dresses. POPSUGAR Fashion was quick to share a compilation of the looks from the red carpet and I wanted to share some of my favorites with you.

Charlize Theron looked like a statuesque beauty in this vibrant Dior Haute Couture dress. I love the simplicity of this dress mixed with the incredible plunging neckline. Of course the $3.7 million worth of diamonds isn't a bad touch either.

Mindy Kaling looked effortlessly elegant in this dress by Elizabeth Kennedy. The deep rich color looks amazing with her skin tone! 

Cate Blanchet looked every bit a whimsical springtime queen in Armani Prive. I love the cut of this dress, the plunging neckline, the sleeves, and the tailoring, along with the color and flower appliqué. The beading details glittered on the red carpet!

Naomi Watts sparkled in Armani Prive. The ombre blues and purples of the bodice are lovely. I also appreciate the scallop like details lined with the purple sequins to stand out. It reminds me of a mermaid come to land, but in the best way possible.

I tweeted last week about my love for Saoirse Ronan and her style and tonight was no exception. She looked killer in this custom green Calvin Klein Collection dress. The closer you look you can see the swirling sequin details towards the bottom. She left me green with envy for sure. 

Lady Gaga was my pick for best dressed this evening in a Brandon Maxwell dress.  If this dress were just a full skirt it would be gorgeous but the fact that it has pants is fantastic! I love the lines created from the top's symmetry with the lines created by the opening of the skirt, drawing your eyes down the entire outfit. Seeing this look move across the carpet is even makes it all the more lovely and modern!

Check out the other looks from the red carpet on POPSUGAR fashion here. Whose looks did you love?

June Favorites!

Hello lovely reader! Tomorrow is July 1, 2015.....yeah still wondering if June actually happened. Literally, it went by so fast. But one of the great things about the end of the month (or maybe not for some, take it as you please, sometimes its favorites overkill for some) is that people post the things they have been loving for the past 30 or so days! Personally, I am a fan of a good favorites post or video because it can give insight into things you may have not been aware of before or give you the excitement of the fact that maybe you've been loving the same things that someone else has! For my June Favorites post, I decided to do it a bit differently then I have in the past, and I'd love feedback as to how you feel about the layout. I thought it would be a bit easier to see if its laid out more sequentially and categorized (a bit of OCD coming through). I also tried to leave links to some of the products if possible. Have a scroll and I'll share with you what I have been loving for the month of June!

Favorite Face Cleaner (not really sure how to title this one?): Queen Helene Face Mint Julep Scrub

This facial scrub is absolutely fantastic! It has a great amount of grit to it to scrub the excess dirt and dry skin from your face. I have an oily t-zone and I find that this product does a great job of cleaning my face as well as combatting some of the oiliness.

Favorite Go-To Food: Strawberries

If you haven't been able to tell my some of my recent iPhone Snaps posts, I love strawberries! They are my go to snack and are delicious when mixed into vanilla greek yogurt. Also not to bad to top off a waffle with some powdered sugar.

Favorite Blog: Merrick's Art

This blog has been my go to when looking for inspiration of things to sew or create! Stylish, chic, and full of ideas!

Favorite Website: POPSUGAR Fitness

I have been on this website so many times this month! From recipe searching to workout sequences, this website is a great one stop shop for all things fitness.

Favorite App/Time Consumer: Tumblr

I love Tumblr! As I've said before, I love to look at it towards the end of the day as a way to wind down and it never ceases to inspire me whether it be a quote or a fashionable look. Follow me here!

Favorite Fashion Piece: Swing Dresses

Ok so my love for swing dresses is quite a thing, sleeveless, shirtsleeve, long sleeve, love them all. I just think they're so great because they are comfortable, they look cute, and they can be dressed up or down.


Favorite Throwback: Back to Black By Amy Winehouse

I had been a fan of Amy Winehouse's music, but I didn't know too much about her. A few weeks ago I watched a documentary about her life and her trials and tribulations. She was so talented and will forever be remembered. After watching the documentary, I had this song on repeat and also began listening to more of her songs that I was unfamiliar with.


Favorite Books: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart & Paper Towns by John Green

I don't want to say too much about either of these, other than if you are looking for some books to read this summer, I highly recommend both of these!!!

Favorite YouTube Channel: Samantha Harvey

I just did a Recent Discovery post all about Samantha Harvey! She is talented and her covers are beautiful.

Guilty Pleasure: Rich Kids of Beverly Hills (TV Show)

So yes, this is my guilty pleasure of the month. It's full of humor, fashion, selfies, and "fabuluxe" people. It makes me laugh every time and the relationship between Dorothy and Morgan, reminds me so much of me and my best friend! "The series focuses on the lives of a group of twenty-something millionaires and billionaires showcasing their lives." I wouldn't mind some of the perks of their lives for sure...motivation!

So that my lovely readers is what I have been loving in the month of June. What are your June Favorites? If you did your own post, feel free to link it in the comments, I'd love to read it! Xx