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. 

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.

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

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!

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.  

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.

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!