01 November 2015

Creating The Perfect workspace

A friend of mine is moving to the city, and she recently got a job working remotely, which means she is in major need of the perfect work space.  With so many jobs these days being remote, a workspace is becoming almost a necessity when looking for an apartment or house. I myself have been working on the perfect workspace to work on my blog and work from home.

Since my friend loved the area I created for myself, she asked if I would help her out with creating something for her that would inspire and motivate her while also being super functional.  She had a budget of $500, which is totally realistic.  If you are a freelancer, and looking for a workspace that you can bring clients, you can also enlist the services of companies like WeWork if you are looking for something on a larger scale. WeWork offers shared office space options, as well as conference rooms for rent! The memberships are flexible, depending on the needs of your business.

A couple of tips that I have when creating an ideal workspace are to make it something you are proud of and want to be in.  You also want it to be free from too many distractions.  Avoid rooms with TVs or large windows for people watching.  You also want a space that allows for plenty of room to spread out and be creative.

When designing a work space, there are certain items that are almost a necessity.  Obviously a desk will be the number one piece for your office.  Choose something that is functional.  If you are working with a smaller space, you don't need a large desk, just something big enough to put your computer and some extra storage and writing space.  Next choose a chair that goes with your vision and that you know you can sit in for hours at a time.  Add a desk lamp for those late night work sessions.  I would also suggest a rug to pull the area together and define the space.  I like to have simple furniture and play up the space with a brightly-patterned rug.  Lastly, add some character to your space with some decor like an Aztec pillow and motivational art. 


22 October 2015

My Fall Decor



Pumpkin Spiced Lattes, cozy sweaters, ankle boots, falling leaves... I could go on and on about all the great things about fall.  If you live up North, you know that fall is by far the best time of year.  The temperature is just cool enough for layering  and boots, but you aren't buried in puffy jackets and knit scarves just yet.

One of my favorite things about fall is the fall decor and the beautiful rich colors that accompany it.  I love mixing browns and shades of ivory with pops of bright yellow and orange.  Since I had so much fun decorating this year, I thought I would share how I decorated my home this fall.  Hope you all had just as much fun as I did decorating!



Above are some of my homemade touches.  I love creating my own wreaths.  It allows me to have the freedom and creativity to make exactly what I want while also showing it off to everyone that walks by!

I also love tiny white punkins.  I stuck them all over my house this year and decorated some with gold accents to add some extra glam.





 Lastly, I thought I would share how we decorated our patio.  We have a tiny outdoors space, but hey, it's better than nothing!  I love mixing fairytale pumpkins with guards and mums.  Adding Indian corn and haystacks give an added autumn touch!

Succulents can be a wonderful fall plant.  I picked a few and added them to a carved out white pumpkin.  I was really happy with the way this centerpiece turned out!

What are some of your fall decor tips?  I would love to learn new ideas for making the home super cozy this fall!

XOXO
Natalie

14 September 2015

Essentials for a Cozy Fall

Fall is in the air!  The temperature is quickly dropping, which means it's time for cable-knit sweaters, cozy date nights on the couch, and pumpkin spice lattes.  Forget all the fitted, summer clothing, and bring on comfort and cozy-ness.  

This weekend was the first weekend of the year that the fall chill could really be felt.  Coinsidently, it was the first offical week of football season.  Does Mother Nature have perfect timing or what? 

So long are the dog days of summer, but rather the crisp nights of autumn.  With fall right on our heels, I thought I would put together a list of the essentials needed to make this fall the most comfortable and cozy fall ever!


Cozy Slippers - Ugg Australia // Perfect Sweater - SheInside // Cashmere Throw - Parachute // Fireside - scented candle - Parachute // Coffee mug - Starbucks // Cable-knit leggings - Bed Bath & Beyond


01 July 2015

Summer Essentials

Summer is all about less is more!  No need to pack on layers and accessorize with chunky jewelry. The days are long and hot, so it's all about trying to stay cool and comfortable.  Summertime definitely means less makeup, less clothes and less worry.  I love just throwing on a touch of brozer and maxi dress for those warm summer nights.  It feels like summer took forever to get here, but I am so ready to embrace the long days.

1. Of course everyone needs a great pair of sunnies.  As if Ray-ban wasn't cool enough, they really have become super chic this season with their stylish "Clubmaster" line.  I love this pair from Nordstrom.com.

2. If you haven't checkout out Love Shack Fancy yet, you have to!  They have THE best summer maxis that are perfect for taking beachy days to nights.  You will live in their Signature Love dress all summer long.

3.  Another summer must-have is the perfect bronzer.  I love Bare Minerals Warmth all-over face color.  It gives you that natural summer glow, plus it has an SPF built in!

4. Every summer goddess needs a floppy hat.  Francesca's has a great selection.  I got their Bonaire Floppy Hat a couple months ago and it follows me to the beach every single time!

5. I have fallen in love with Triangl's colorblock swimsuits.  A great swimsuit is a for-sure summer staple.

6.  If I am not in a summer maxi, my weekends are spent in colorful, flowy cover-ups.  Love this one from H&M!

7.  Living in sandals all summer means investing in a good leather pair.  I love these Sikinos from Calypso St. Barth.

8. Countless trips to the beach need a fun beach bag to hold all your things.  Nordstrom always has a great selection!

09 June 2015

My summer to-do list



Well, well, well, it has been quite some time since my last post.  Work had really gotten the best of me the past couple months, but I think I am in a good spot to get back to normal life again and begin posting.  To welcome my self back to the blogging community, I decided to post my summer to-do list! 

Last year, I created a summer to-do list, but I have to admit, I did not get nearly as far on the list as I should have.  I think it's great to make lists because it keeps me accountable and reminds me of all the things I want to get done over the summer.  Sometimes summers can be filled with weddings, showers and engagement parties; basically summer has been all about celebrating others.  But what about celebrating yourself?  This list is really important to me because lately I feel like I have not been doing things for myself, but rather everyone else around me.  Don't get me wrong, I love all the weddings and parties that summer brings.  I love spending time with friends that I do not normally get to see very often, but sometimes it's nice to just do things for you.  And between all the things I have to do for others this summer, I also want to take this summer to do the things that I want to.

You may notice that this year's list has a lot of items that I also had last year.  But what is summer without a "sick" day to the beach and a few S'mores?



I think this is a very reasonable list to accomplish this summer.  Last year my list was a little too aggressive, but I know I need to take time to myself this summer.  I can't wait to get started.

27 April 2015

Spring Neon





Top - Express // Jeans - American Eagle // Wedges (old) - similar // Long necklace - Express // Layering Necklaces - Forever 21 // Gold Bracelet - BP via Nordstrom // Cuff - Baublebar (similar) // Nail Polish - Essie's Spin the Bottle

As some of my readers may know, one of my New Year's resolutions is to incorporate more color into my wardrobe.  I have a horrible habit of buying anything black or white (but mostly black).  Spring has really encouraged me to start branching out because of all the beautiful colors right now.  

I loved this top as soon as I saw it.  The neon color was bright, but so lovely at the same time.  Coral is such a great color for spring and I think it goes well with almost every skin tone.  Some other colors I am really loving this season are navy, hot pink and cobalt blue.  I think I have been doing a pretty decent job of shying away from black and purchasing more beautiful colors. The true test will be if I can keep it going throughout fall and winter. 



15 April 2015

How 2 Style: Boyfriend Jeans


I absolutely love boyfriend jeans!  They are definitely on my list of investment pieces.  Revolveclothing.com has such a great variety and definitely has some of the best options out there.  If you are look for the perfect pair of distressed boyfriend denim, Revolve is guaranteed to deliver to you the perfect pair.  I have also found some great pairs at places like Abercrombie & Fitch and American Eagle (channel your inner high-school self).

  I love that you can dress  boyfriend jeans up or dress them down to fit almost any occasion.  I also love the fact they are super comfortable and stylish.  I really hope that they never go out of style.


Probably the most common way I dress boyfriend jeans is by keeping it casual.  Slip on a pair of black loafers and style with a rock tee.  Perfect the look by add some gold jewelry and a fedora for the perfect go-to look!  I fringe bag is a must if you want to pull off the whole "rocker" look.

Even though boyfriend jeans tend to be more casual, you can dress them up.  I love adding feminine details like a lace top and blush handbag to give a softer look to an otherwise edgier jean.  Complete with pearls and strappy heals and you have the perfect date night look!


Probably my all-time favorite way to style boyfriend jeans is with a v-neck, heals and a blazer.  I love the care-free vibe this look gives off while looking well put-together.  Of course, you will need to pair with some dainty gold jewelry and brown leather satchel to get that "Jennifer Anistan", girl-next-door look.

02 April 2015

Office Space Styling

I have been working extra hours from home lately.  The problem is I live in a small condo, so finding space to do my work has been difficult.  I often find myself bouncing around from dining room table, to couch, to bed, etc.  I decided enough was enough and I needed to find somewhere to set my laptop and do work in space I felt comfortable in.  Not only would this space be great for working from home, but it would also be a creative space for me to work on blog posts.

I have been souring pinterest for ideas on how to make a great work area with very little space.  I decided my space had to meet three qualities if I was going to feel comfortable in it:

1. Small but effective - I don't have a lot of space to work with, so making sure I have everything I need while not being over-cluttered is very important.

2. Inspirational - I love to have inspirational quotes all around me to keep me motivated and working hard.

3. Stylish - If I want to embrace my creativity, I need to style the space so that it fits my personality and looks beautiful as well.

After hours of Pinteresting, here are a couple of photos I found as inspiration for my work area.

photo credit: Homey Oh My! 

 photo credit: Style Me Pretty


I decided to put together some of the pieces I have been eying up for my work area.  I want it to be feminine, but professional.  I love using the colors mint and gold together, but I think a little bit of pink will add some brightness and cheer to the mix.


1. Quoted coffee mug - I drink a lot of coffee while I work.  It keeps me going.  I love this mug because it not only helps keep me caffeinated, but it also makes me feel important with the "like a boss" quote.

2. Fun notepads - I am constantly writing down notes and ideas while I work.  I love these Kate Spade notepads because they double as a functional item as well as a decor item with the cute covers!

3. Mouse pad - I must have a mouse while I work.  I cannot stand the track pad on lap tops so I always have a wireless mouse and mouse pad handy.   Zazzle has a lot of really cute and affordable options for mouse pads.

4. Desk Organizer - I always seem to collect a lot of desk nick-nacks such as pens, highlighters, scissors, etc.  This desk organizer by Nate Berkus from Target fits well with my work space style.

5. Flowers - Every space needs some flowers.  You can always count on One Kings Lane to deliver on the faux flower department.

6. File Folders - I always go through tons of folders.  These mint colored folders from Nate Berkus for Target are a perfect way to ad some style to an otherwise boring desk accessory.

7. Pens - forget the normal black and blue ink.  Opt for these gold and silver gel pens from PaperSource to add some flare to your notes.

8. Printed wall art -  I recently came across this cute Etsy shop, FashionandFeathers, from a fellow blogger, and you have to check this stuff out!  She has the cutest wall prints.  I love this #WorkIt print for some quick motivation.

I will definitely be posting pictures once the final product is complete... so stay tuned!

27 March 2015

Friday Favorites: Spring Pastels

Happy Friday everyone! Well we made if through the first full week of spring; although it sure hasn't felt like it.  Even though the weather has not been the best here in the Northeast, I have been dreaming of spring and pastel colors all week!  My favorite clothing season is definitely fall, but I love all the colors that come with spring collections.  It gives me the opportunity to experiment with colorful outfits and new textures.  Here are some of the items I have been lusting over this week:



1. JCrew jeweled statement necklace // 2.Chicwish midi lace skirt // 3. Zara city bag // 4. Vince Nude peep-toe booties // 5. JCrew mint Carrie Cami // 6. Kate Spade jeweled earrings via Saks Fifth Avenue // 7. H&M Textured wool coat

24 March 2015

Welcome Spring with Lavender Cupcakes



First of all, happy spring!  This winter has seemed like it has lasted an eternity.  I am so ready to shed the layers and start wearing open-toed shoes and short sleeves.  I am so sick of bundling up and wearing boots everywhere I go.

Anyway, I know I have been on a little bit of a blogging hiatus lately, but work has been super crazy these past couple of weeks.  My normal schedule has been wake up, go to work, go to the gym, come home and do more work.  I think things are finally going to slow down a little bit, so I can concentrate a little more on blogging again.  I have felt like something has been missing for the past couple of weeks, and I think that void has been all of you guys!  I figured I would welcome myself back with a new cupcake recipe.  Because this week marks the first full week of spring, I thought I would share a floral recipe.  Ever since I introduced myself to pinterest, I have been eying up these Lavender & Honey cupcakes.


I decided to make my own version of the cupcakes.  I decided to make Lavender cupcakes with a honey frosting topped with lemon zest.  I modified the cupcake recipe slightly, but I didn't want to make a cream cheese frosting, so I made more of a honey buttercream.   The lemon zest on top was the perfect addition to give the cupcake some zing (if that's a word).  Overall, I was very happy with how this cupcake turned out!  So perfect for spring! The taste was very refreshing, and they were not too heavy or overly sweet.


Ingredients


For the cupcakes:

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 1/4 cup sugar
3 eggs (2 yolks, 1 whole)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons lavender extract (found at Sur La Table)
2/3 cup cold milk
red & blue food coloring (optional)

For the frosting:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup of heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup honey

Topping:

2 lemons to zest

Directions
Preheat your oven to 350 ° and line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.

In an electric mixer, cream room temperature butter and sugar together.  Add in your eggs, one at a time, then beat in the vanilla extract. If you are using food coloring, you can add it in here.

In a separate bowl, mix your flour, baking soda and salt.  Slowly add your dry ingredients to your butter and sugar mixture, making sure to keep your electric mixer on a slow-medium speed while you do so.

Lastly, stir in your milk and lavender extract.  Fill your lined muffin tins about 3/4 of the way and cook for about 20-24 minutes.  Ovens tend to vary slightly in temperature, so make sure you check towards the end of the timer with a toothpick.  Once the toothpick comes out clean, your cupcakes should be done.  Be sure not to overcook, otherwise they will become dry and crumbly.  Let cool for about an hour before frosting.

To make the frosting, start with room temperate butter and cream on a medium-high speed for about 3 minutes.  Slowly add in your powdered sugar a little at a time.  Once the sugar and butter are well mixed, add in your honey and heavy whipping cream.  Put into a piping tube and frost with your favorite tip!

Lastly, zest two lemons over top of your cupcakes.  Not only does this add some great flavor, but it also looks pretty and adds some color to the top of your cupcakes. 





 

06 March 2015

Friday Favorites


Happy Friday!!  I just got back from vacation on Wednesday and you have no idea how hard it was to come back to cold, snowy weather.  Take me back to sunny Cancun, please!  Luckily our flight was able to land, but yesterday we got bombarded with about 8 inches of snow.  I am so ready for spring and this winter weather to be over.

Since I had a snow day yesterday I did a lot of online browsing.  It was so hard not to with all of the great sales.  Shopbop has 25% off with code BIGEVENT15 and Francesca's has B1G1 50% off almost everything.  Here are some of the things I was lusting over yesterday as I did some "window shopping".


1. DANNIJO iPhon 6 case via ShopBop // 2. Bauble Bar ear crawlers // 3. Rebecca Minkoff Leo Clutch in winter mint via ShopBop // 4. "I love coffee" mug via Francesca's Collection // 5. Rachel Zoe Inigo Flat Sandals via ShopBop // 6. Two piece sheath dress via ShopBop  // 7. LuLu's Floral midi skirt // 8. Adriana Orsini pave snake cuff via Saks Fifth Avenue

27 February 2015

Vacation Essentials

Happy Friday, everyone!  I am so happy the week is finally coming to an end, especially because I leave for vacation this weekend.  I will finally be heading out of the icy cold and into the warm sun!  It could not come at a better time. 

Since this will be my first vacation in several years, I had a lot of stocking up to do.  I may have went a little overboard, but hey, you got to look good on vacation, right?  Anyway, here are some of my essentials for the big trip! 

1.  high neck swim suite - Top Shop  // 2. Fun sandals - Target // 3. Floppy hat - Francescas // 4. Brightly printed shorts - H&M // 5. Tribal statement necklace - Bebe // 6. Romber cover-up - H&M // 7. Canvas beach tote - Jonathan Adler via Nordstrom // 8 Good book (see below!) // 9. New Shades - Tory Burch

One of the number one things I am looking forward to doing on this vacation is catching up on some good reading, and it just so happens that Joey over at Hodgespodges is selling her e-book for only $1.99 this week!  She is such a fabulous writer, as showcased on her blog, so I am sure the book is going to be just as great.

From now until February 28th, you can get her book on Amazon for $1.99!  So head on over and use this opportunity to catch up on some good reading as well!  She is such a great writer, so please share this post with your friends as well and support this amazing blogger!


24 February 2015

8 Tips for Running in the Cold



This time of year is the worst for runners, especially if you are living in the Northeast.  It's cold, snowy, icy and dark the majority of the day. Now is the time to start training for spring marathons, so I want to know who thought it would be a great idea to make all these runs in the spring? 

I signed up for my 6th half marathon on May 3rd.  If I want to be ready in time, I need to start training now.  Unfortunately the weather has not been in my favor.  Last year was not any better with the polar vortex messing with my training runs.  However, I was motivated and determined to finish the training.  I began to research the best ways for keeping warm and searched running blogs for tips  from other runners.  I ended up surviving my winter training, but with the help of these affective tips:

 1.  Layer up   

 Layer, layer, layer.  Dressing appropriately can really make or break a run, whether it's 82 degrees or 28.   When it's as cold as it has been here in the Northeast, you can't rely on your body keeping you warm once you get going.  Wear as many layers that will allow you still have room to move.

2. Choose sweat wicking material 

Don't wear cotton as your number one layer.  It absorbs the sweat and once the cotton gets wet, it will give you a very unwanted chill.  Choose technical material, think Under Armer sweat wicking materials.

3. Keep your head/ ears covered 

Because heat escapes quickly from your head and ears, keep them covered.

4. Take care of your extremities 

Your hands, ears and nose are very susceptible to frostbite because they don't tend to have a lot of fat or muscle in them, so keep them covered.  They will be the first parts on your body to get cold.

5. Wear bright colors 

Because we see less daylight this time of the year, chances are you are going to need to train in the dark.  Make sure you are seen by wearing bright and fluorescent colors.  You also want to stay out of secluded areas.  You never want to run in the woods or on a secluded road at night.

6. Pick a buddy 

 It's always easier to stay motivated when you are running with a buddy.  Not only that, it's always a great idea to have someone by your side in case something happens.

7. Stay connected 

Bring your phone along with you.  If you were to slip and fall on ice, begin feeling the affects of frostbite, or find yourself in a dangerous situation, you want to have your phone handy to call home of 911.

8. Don't take chances 

If you think it's too cold or icy to run, don't do it.  You always want to be prepared, and if you think you may not be, than don't run.  Trust me, the run is not worth injuring yourself. 

13 February 2015

Eva Franco for Lover.ly



If you don't know Eva Franco's designs, you should. Her collections can be found in stores like Anthropologie and Modcloth. The detail that goes into her vintage-feel designs are impeccable and like no other. Eva Franco scours the world for unique fabrics and textures to inspire her collections that are made for the everyday girl.

I am happy to announce that her designs are now available in the form of bridal!  Brought to you by Lover.ly, Eva's dresses are a unique spin on pieces made for your special day.  The best part?  They are super affordable.

What I love about the collection is that you can clearly see all the detail and texture that has gone into these designs.  I love that she has not only included dresses, but also two piece suites and jump suites.  With these unique pieces, you can really create the vision for your perfect day.

I love the idea of a two piece dress for you and your bridesmaids.  One of my absolute favorite pieces from the collection is this gorgeous, two -piece dress.  Even though it's white, I would love to see this as part of a wedding party.  Just look at the detail within the fabric!  How can you not be obsessed with this crop top/skirt combo?


I also cannot help but be obsessed with this jumpsuit!  Navy is the color of the season, and your bridal party will be so comfortable in this unique alternative to a bridesmaid dress.  I mean seriously... how can you not be in love with the idea a jumpsuit for the big day?  The collection even has an amazing white one that would be perfect for changing into for the reception!


Lastly, my absolutely favorite piece of the collection is this fabulous two-piece.  The texture is definitely something to be said for in itself.  It would be perfect for a boho reception or elopement in Paris.



This collection is not just for bridal parties.  At such a great price point, these dresses also make great cocktail dresses.  Check out Eva Franco's new collection at Lover.ly.com.


11 February 2015

Pastel Pink for Spring

In my last post, My Spring Wish List, the first item I listed was a blush moto jacket.  Well I found just what I was looking for!  I found this blush jacket from Forever21, and at an amazing price point!  You cannot beat that.

I was so nervous and excited for it to come in.  The smallest size they had was a small, and being a petite person, I can normally only wear an extra small.  I read the reviews and most said it ran a little small, which luckily for me was true.  When it arrived I was really happy with how it fit. I didn't want to take away from the jacket, so I went with simple pieces to pair with it.  I think this may be my new go-to look for a night out!






Moto Jacket - Forever21 // White v-neck - H&M // Necklace - Stella & Dot (similar) // faux leather leggings - Nordstrom // Black suede booties - Guess (similar) // Crossbody bag - Rebecca Minkoff

09 February 2015

My Spring Wish List

I know it seems like this winter is never-ending, but I am counting down the days until spring.  I have already started putting together my list of items that I need to invest in this upcoming season.  With so many gorgeous collections out right now, it's easy to get carried away!

Here are my wish list items for spring:



1. Blush moto jacket - I put this as number one on my list because I have been dying to get my hands on one of these.

2. Nude open-toe booties - I LOVE these ones from Ann Taylor.  They are called 'Natalie' Peeptoe shooties, so I guess that means I have to get them.

3. Passport holder - I am going on my first trip out of the country, next month.  I cannot wait!  This just means I need to get a cute passport holder. I must have this Kate Spade polka dot one!

4. Distressed skinnies - I am not sure why I have not invested in these yet, but they definitely need to become a staple in my wardrobe.

5.  MAC's Heroine - Okay, I really just need to go and buy this lipstick, now.  I have wanted this lipstick since fall.  I think it's about time I go out and get it.

6. Floral Print Midi Skirt- Love, love, love this floral print midi from ModCloth!  They always seem to have best, unique finds, and I cannot wait to get my hands on this one.

7. Long White Coat - I love the crisp look of this white Zara coat.  It is super chic and will be a great spring coat.  I must have this!


05 February 2015

Bar Cart Styling

One of my good friends just recently moved into a new place.  One of the things on her list for this new place was to invest in a great new bar area.  As part of her birthday/housewarming gift, I made her this gorgeous bar tray and accompanied it with a martini shaker, some cute new paper straws and her favorite alcohol. 

I was so impressed with the results that I decided to begin my journey on making my own bar cart.  So, the planning has begun!  I have been doing a lot of research on what some of the best items are to include on a bar cart.  You want your items to be practical, yet stylish.


1. This may sound a little crazy, but I honestly have been planning my whole bar cart decor around the idea of using a pink peony as part of the styling.  This one from One Kings Lane is exactly what I have in mind. Remember, you are working with limited space so don't get anything too big.

2. This Target bar cart is exactly what I had in mind: gold, simple, affordable.

3. Every great party has super cute paper straws, so always be prepared with these black and white ones.  They double as a functional and stylish element.

4. Add some cute coasters!  Zazzel has a ton to choose from, and a lot of customizable ones as well.  Everyone will want to set their drinks down on these chic coasters.

5. Adorable glassware is a must!  I love these gold polka dot glasses from Kate Spade.  I have also seen wine or martini glasses done as well.  Either way, some sort of glassware is definitely needed.

6. Every great bar area must also have some cute bottle stoppers.  I love these Kate Spade owl bottle stoppers from FurbishStudio.com.

7. Choose your favorite alcohol!  Make sure you have some champagne in there as well - you must always be well stocked with champagne!

8. You will want a cocktail shaker that suites the style you are going for.  Simple is key.  I love this simple gold one from Umami Mart.

9.  Add some refreshing non-alcoholic drinks to your bar as mixers or for those who prefer a non-alcoholic drink.  Pellegrino and fresh coconut water are great refreshing options.

10.  Find some cute signage.  This will go directly above your bar cart.  While doing my "research" I found all kinds of chic bar signs.  This Etsy option was exactly what I was looking for.

11. To top off your car, add some fashionable napkins.  Zazzel is a great option for these as well.  


27 January 2015

Cozy knits + faux leather






 Sweater - Loft // Leggings - Nordstrom // Mid-calf boots - Kohls (similar) // Infinity plaid scarf - hand sewn by yours truly // midi rings - BP. via Nordstrom // single bar ring - BP. via Nordstrom

I love that cozy knit sweaters are in right now.  They are so comfortable, warm and stylish.  I love that this one from Loft is a little longer, too.  It goes perfect with a pair of faux leather leggings, or really any pair of leggings.  With the cold temps and extreme temperatures, I prefer to be warm and comfortable, and this is the perfect outfit for curling up next to a fire.  As much as I cannot wait for spring, I have to say, I will truly miss these cozy cable knit sweaters of winter.


22 January 2015

Homemade Body Butter



This time of year dry skin is at it's worst!  It seems like no matter how much I moisturize, my skin is always super dry and itchy.  Well, I couple years back I found a solution to these winter dry-skin blues when I came across a recipe for homemade body butter.  I have been using this stuff for about 2 years now and I just made my third batch for myself and friends.

Because I know many of you are experiencing the same issue as me with these bitter cold temperatures, I thought I would post the recipe I have been using.  This body butter comes out so velvety smooth, and because it contains all natural ingredients, it is great for people with sensitive skin.  As another added bonus, it also contains shea butter, which is great for preggo friends because it helps prevent stretch marks.

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cup shea butter
1/3 cup coconut oil
1/3 cup olive or almond oil
2-3 drops of essential oil (optional)

How to make this amazing stuff:
Melt down the shea butter (I used African shea butter which is a little more moisturizing and is more yellow in color) and coconut oil in a double broiler or fondue pot on low heat.  Both melt down pretty quickly, so it shouldn't take too long.  Let cool for about 30 minutes or so and add in your almond or olive oil along with your essential oil (if using).



Let it set in the refrigerator for about 2-2 1/2 hours.  When you poke the mixture, it should be a little soft still, but hardened at the same time.



 Put your mixture in a mixer and whip it using your whisk attachment to give it the nice, whipped texture.  I usually put the finished product into mason jars.

This stuff lasts forever because a little goes a long way.  It does tend to go on oily, but it sets in your skin pretty quickly.  I use mine almost every time I get out of the shower.  It is especially heavenly when your skin is still warm from the shower or bath!