Loves, so many of my posts say ” no makeup”, I’ve made a big deal over makeovers and you may have begun to get the hint: I’m not a big make-up person. It’s not that I wear nothing, I can’t live without mascara. It’s just that I’m not a fan of the overly made up look. I love the look of glowing skin. I simply just want my skin to look great, and look like it’s that way on it’s own! So below are the products that I use to make my skin look like glowing skin!
This gold mask from Peter Thomas Roth helps firm and tighten my skin, and the gold makes it dewy and gold! The instructions say to leave on for 20 mins. I’ve worn it all day with mascara and lipstick–I love it! Peter Thomas Roth 24k Mask
This moisturizer from Glam Glow is radiant–under foundation, as the base, it’s just pearly enough that I glow, and feel like I don’t need much else! Pro tip–put it on your collar bones for a night out! GlamGlow GlowStarter
Even great skin needs help, and that’s where Glossier comes in! I love their blendable and light concealer and tints–they aren’t heavy, don’t sit on your skin and they look completely nautral. These are my go-tos when I “wear” makeup, but they give me the fresh face, “no makeup” look that I love! Glossier
I spent this past weekend doing a little summer cleaning of my closet. This isn’t a new thing for me, I try to do clean outs about twice a year (for details and tips you can check out this post from January on my clean out process). Every time I do a big clean out I think that I do a great job of clearing out things that are no longer a fit for me, keeping things that bring me joy and are investments, and cultivating a great wardrobe. Then months past and I clean out again and I am amazed at what I hung onto. This time I made it a point to really clear out of the things I hung onto that no longer served me. Shoes that are stunning but never going to fit? Out. Low rise jeans when my natural waist is ridiculously high? Out. Items holding space for things I really want? Out. And I have to admit, it feels fantastic. And as I’ve cleared out, I’ve made a commitment to really try to be thoughtful in what I bring back in–again choosing pieces that bring me joy, fit well, and are good investments!
Now, what to do with the outs? As I talk about here I’m a big fan of selling your clothes. Consignment for your designer/more high end items. Places like Buffalo Exchange and CrossRoads for all the rest. And of course I’m a big fan of online consignment: TheRealReal, Tradesy, Poshmark and Vestaire Collective. In my research for selling I came upon some interesting tips about selling:
-Tory Burch is the third highest brand to retain value when selling (only preceded by Hermes and Chanel)
-Most items will not sell for what you paid for them, so while you can make some money, be open to price points lower than what you may have been expecting
-The better condition an item is in, the easier it is to sell
-If the item has tags on it, leave them on!
-Do some online/local research. See what similar items are going for and price accordingly
I hope this refresher helps you, and inspires you to clean out your closet! Fall is coming and we need the room for sweaters and boots!
Loves, before each photo shoot I spend time steaming, ironing, pressing each outfit. And here we are: it’s summer, it’s the season of linen. And loves, linen wrinkles. Even if you spend 45 mins trying to make it perfect. Even if you just sit down for 5 seconds or it’s a little humid outside. Linen wrinkles. I know I have stressed over getting outfits perfectly stressed. Like this one:
And even these pants:
Here’s the thing: no matter how tightly woven the linen is, it’s going to wrinkle. It’s part of the weave. Now that weave makes it a perfect summer staple (and keeps you cool), but it’s not for the ones who love things un-wrinkled.
So what do we do? It seems to me that accepting some wrinkling is our only option, unless you carry a portable steamer with you! And as this Wall Street Journal article suggests, there are be something appealing about a slight wrinkle- a casual, carefree summer “je ne sais quoi”, if you will.
I’d love to know your thoughts! Do you embrace your linen wrinkle? Or do you fight it? And if so, how?
Loves, I am not a big make-up person. Not that I don’t wear it- and when I’m cast and on set I often have to wear a lot- but in my day-to-day life I tend to stick to necessary concealer, powder, mascara, and lipstick. Part of it is that I like a natural look, part of it is I’m not very good at applying my own makeup. So when I was offered the chance to get a make-over and learn from Chanel Master-Make-Up Artist John Fussell I jumped at it!
I sometimes find make-overs intimidating. I feel like I leave not looking like myself and completely unable to recreate any part of the look I liked. That was not the case at all with this experience! John and his team walked me through every step they did- explaining theory behind their technique and answering any questions I had. Then, after my entire look was complete, the team went over the steps and colors again- making sure that I felt confident that I could do it myself!
I went for a glowy skin with smoky eye look, and was thrilled with the results! I will be using this technique for my next night out; but John also went over some basic make-up guidelines. Below are some general tips I’ve learned, and can’t wait to incorporate into my routine!
-Do your foundation, blush, and lip before you do your eyes. Most people start with the eyes, but leaving them till last allows the proper amount of drama, and ensures that everything flows together. You can think of it like a bridge- there’s one between your neck and lips, then your cheeks, then your eyes- everything should transition
– Light changes based on season, adjust accordingly. Summer light is more golden, winter light has a blue-ish hue. You can warm up your summer make-up by hinting a hint of gold to your primer
-Blend, Blend, Blend
-The upward swipe of blush can age you. Smile and use a circle motion for an age-defying look. Make sure any contour you choose to use is flesh toned
– Anyone can wear any color- the secret is where you put it and how much. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Also, make-up colors follow basic artistic rules- white illuminates, black contracts
-Try a brown masacara if you’re blonde (and Chanel has a great chocolate brown one). It’s a great color to make your eyes pop- and will also be big for fall. Colored mascara is here through 2018- have some fun with that too!
-Putting a little color near your hairline (light blush or bronzer) pulls everything together
-If you have deep set eyes (and most of us do) eye liner is more effective on the water line- just make sure your eyeliner is waterproof to prevent smudging.
-Take care of your skin:drink enough water and moisturize
-Use the proper tools. Remember the small the brush the more intense color it will leave on your skin
– Check your reflection from the side before you leave the house
-Apply as much of your eye make-up as possible with your eyes open
I’d love to know- what make-up tricks do you swear by? What are your make-over stories?
John can be found giving make-overs and classes at Chanel counters nationwide and on Facebook!
The following are a few of the current favorite things in my beauty bag! Omorovicza Thermal Cleansing Balm. It removes everything–even waterproof eye makeup, (making it perfect for traveling) and leaves my skin feeling super soft and clean!
I am super sensitive to bug bites and this Sarna Lotion soothes my bites and keeps me itch free!
I am not a fan of the over-made-up look, which means I love all Glossier products! They are light, blendable, and make your skin look like your skin–just slightly better! Here’s my hero product: Stretch Concealer. I often just wear this with translucent powder
I am a self admitted mascara junkie. I had lash extensions for years, and since then have been on a quest for a mascara that makes it look like I didn’t give them up! And these 3 come pretty close–I rotate my use of them, or sometimes layer them. I couldn’t pick a favorite so I listed them all! Lancome Hypnose Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Benefit They’re Real
I know having a deodorant on here is a bit odd– but I absolutely love this one! I work out a lot, so it has to be strong–it lasts for hours without having an overwhelming scent, and keeps me dry! I also love that it’s a spray–meaning I can keep it in my car without worrying about melting! Dove Dry Spray
I’d love to know–what are you loving this month? XO RA
Loves, we’re not talking diet (the good news is that if you’re looking to get beach ready and you have a body you’re there!)! We’re talking closet. Your wardrobe. What you will wear as the temps go up and the days get longer. We’ve chatted closet clean out (refresher here) but this isn’t a clean out–I do my next big clean out in July– this is a “see what I have/what I need” moment. Because if we don’t know where we are it’s hard to get started, right? Right.
1. See What You Have
This is not a call for a major closet clean out (although if you have time to do a closet clean out and want to–by all means do!). What I tend to do is move my summer clothes to the front of my closet and do a quick run through–are there dingy t-shirts to be tossed out? Things I know I will never wear? I get rid of those (GoodWill usually). Then, I remind myself of what I have–great dresses, sandals, and outfits that will work perfectly for the upcoming season!
2. See What You Need
Make notes of what holes your closet has for the summer –for me this is always flips flops (I go through them fast) and swim suits. It could also be new tees or tanks, or a dress for that wedding in July; just having this information in the back of your mind makes summer shopping easier (and ensures you don’t end up with a ton of the same thing!)
3. Leave Room For Fun
Last week we chatted trends (like this one) and summer is full of them! So while making sure you know what you need, it’s ok to want a few fun things too! Even my accountant says so! So pick out a fun top or a new bathing suit–and have fun with it!
There’s no need for this all to get done today–certainly not the shopping portion (as far as I’m concerned that’s an all summer project)–but I love knowing what I need as I head into a new season. And it makes summer seem all the more closer!
Running around this week for SXSW has me reaching into my make-up bag more than usual for touch-ups, changes from day to night and general up-keep. These are the products that have been keeping me looking my best! I’d love to know–what’s in your make-up bag?
XO RA
Crayon eyeshadow. It goes on easily, blends like a dream, and I’m loving this gold–it makes me seem awake and makes my eyes look big!
Buy similar here and here
White eyeliner can make you look awake–I put it on my lower line, or wing it on my upper lid for a more interesting look! Dior Eyeliner
Being out all day and often going straight to an evening event from a daytime event means I’m reapplying mascara throughout the day. And this product means no clumping, no spider lashes, and no cakey look. It literally refreshes your eyelashes so you can reapply without taking off your original application–and even if you just put this on, it makes your eyelashes soft and fresh again! Urban Decay Mascara Resurrection
Oil blotting papers–look matte again without smudging your make-up! These have just a slight powdery feel which makes me feel fresh again, and takes care of any glow that is un-needed! Blotting Papers
Cheek tints. My skin tends to eat blush and these keep me looking the perfect amount of flushed–super blendable, the color is great on all skin tones, and can slip into your pocket!
YSL is discontinued, similar here, Dior
This is the best subtle lip gloss (that can double as blush if needed), and it’s not goopy at all! Vaseline Lip Therapy
This face mask is just amazing–it makes me look hydrated, less fatigued, and gives me a glow. I cheat and sleep in it–but it really only needs about 20 mins to give you a pick-me-up! Skin Laundry Face Mask
Friends, I have something to confess: I am not a good packer. The ladies and lads who can pack for a month in a carry-on and still seem to have everything they need? Not me. I’m more the type to feel as if I need a fresh pair of pants for every day I’m away, not to mention the “just in case” outfits I pack for the things I imagine (to be fair, I could randomly be invited to a red carpet event). This from the lady who is perfectly comfortable wearing the same pjs for a week at home. However, this starts a month full of travel for me, and I am desperate to change my ways–as well as finally master the art of packing. So I went to masters (my well-packed and traveled friends) as well as the internet to get as many tips as I could! The best packing tips I have found are as follows:
Roll your clothes, don’t fold them. This makes more space in your suitcase
Limit yourself to one color palette. Out of this choose a pant, a jean, a dress, a flat and a heel. Build tops (the rule is 3 per bottom) around this.
If needed take one neutral coat
No more than three pairs of shoes (how with workouts I am going to do this is beyond me)
You need only one pair of pjs per week you’re away
When planning make a list of things you’re doing and what you’d like to wear to each activity. Then see what you can double up–wearing the same jeans (no one will know) or using yoga pants for sight seeing.
If you have to add color or a pop to your outfits chose accessories–scarves, jewelry are easier to pack and take up less room.
I plan on incorporating as many of these tips as I can! I’d love to know–are you a light packer? What are your tips? I will keep you updated on my progress!
Loves! I hope yesterday’s post gave you some inspiration to clean out your closet! And it’s hard-right, right? The good news? It’s doable and you did it! Yay! The bad news? There still may be work to do–but again it’s so doable, and if you have just a touch of the OCD, it’s a little fun. I promise!
So you’ve cleaned out, you got rid of things that no longer serve you, and made space for new things! Now: what to do with all of the amazing things that you want to keep? Organize. Yes, it may take a minute, and yes putting away laundry may take some thought–but I promise it’s worth it! Here are some of my tips:
Think like a boutique, or in other words, think seasonally. If it’s winter, make sure appropriate items are in the front or plain view. There’s no need to hide items you need from yourself! When seasons change, rearrange! This is also a great way to make sure you’re putting things you want to wear in front of you–because let’s be honest, in the morning it’s easiest to grab what’s in view!
Consider organizing by type–all skirts, pants, tops together, etc. I go a bit further–I have skirts together, then organize by length and within the length go from light to dark. Tops are grouped together, then by type (blouse, fancy, denim, athletic–yes, I know I seem a little over the top!) Find what works for you–the goal is to know where things are and be able to find things quickly. There’s also something to be said for making your closet look inviting!
Keep sweaters and other items that may stretch folded instead of on hangers
Use space to your advantage –have a coat closet? Put all coats there! Have a spare room–use the closet for clothes that you don’t often wear (like formal wear)
Most importantly, organize your closet in a way that works for you! After the clean out you deserve it!
The Clothes You Didn’t Want
After every closet clean out there are cast offs–remember those piles that we made of clothes we didn’t want? Here’s where we deal with them!
Clothes that are old, dingy, etc can go straight to GoodWill. But what about the clothes that are still in great shape, in fashion, and could be well loved by someone else? You sell them. It’s not as overwhelming as it sounds–there are several places that can help or brick and mortar stores that will take the clothes off your hands! Read below for my tips! Also Real Simple has some great tips!
Selling Online
The best sites, I think, to sell online are: ebay Tradesy The Real Real Poshmark Vaunte
Each has their own guidelines, and each has their own pros and cons. While you can name your price for all items, Ebay and The Real Real are known for higher prices, Tradesy and Vaunte have both low and high prices, and Poshmark prices are more moderate. The sites usually will let you know what similar items have sold for –and are more than happy to guide you. The downside to selling online is that you are responisble for taking the pics, posting them, and mailing the item once it’s sold. If this doesn’t sound like something you’re interested in, you do have options! Brick and Mortar Selling
Each city has a range of re-sell stores and consignment shops. I find places like Buffalo Exchange, Crossroads Trading, and Plato’s Closet are great places to sell items from places like Zara, Jcrew, and HM–they usually take seasonal items and pay you a percentage of what they will sell the clothes for!
Higher end items do better at consignment stores (if you’re in LA I love Recess and if you’re in Austin I love Moss Austin)
While you don’t get to set price and have to share the profit with the store, you don’t have to do the work of selling! Either way you get to make a little profit off of your closet clean out–and let your clothes find happy clothes elsewhere!
I hope these tips for organizing and selling your clean out help make the last bit of your closet clean out painless! Of course, now comes the best part–shopping!
Happy Thursday! XO RA
