Cream + Sugar Please

Photo Credit: Pamela Love Cuff, Alexandria Grecco Pleated Gown, Oliver People's Frames, Studied Abroad Heels from Anthropolgie, oncewed diy.

My Quest for *Perfect* Skin

It's been years since I've had great skin. In the last 5 years I've struggled with excess oils and random breakouts in my t-zone. It's something I've been ashamed of since the day it began, and sadly I can't say I've done much to really help my skin until recently.

The worst part for me was being prideful. I would look at my friends who seemed to have flawless, glowing completions and think that for me it was just a matter of time, it would get better eventually. I tried everything to disguise and fix my bad skin, without seeking out actual help. From wearing makeup so thick I couldn't see my freckles if I tried, to believing everything I read in gossip magazines about the best homemade cleansers and masques to give you flawless skin. Everything I tried just made my skin more irritated.

Finally, after seeking out professional help and reaching an age of understanding, I can see what damage I've done to my skin, and how easy it is to make progress towards healthy skin... without all the heartache. I wanted to share my Do's and Dont's with you, if you too suffer from embarrassing skin imperfections.

1. HANDS OFF!
It's so easy to forget this rule. I used to put my hands all over my face: to rest my head on my hands, itch my nose, or apply lip balm with my fingers. All that hand-to-face contact will do is place the germs and bacteria that your hands carry (regardless of how often you wash or sanitize your hands) and put them on your face. That's a no-no!!
2. TOO MUCH IS TOO MUCH!
I've learned from personal experience that there is such a thing as "over-cleansing." When I have a breakout, sometimes I'm so frustrated I just want to punish my skin! I use toner multiple times in one day, cleanse and exfoliate repeatedly, and then apply too much moisturizer. The problem is, that if you remove all those natural oils from your skin, then attempt to peel the newly parched skin, you're shocking it, and injuring the top layer(s) of skin and then shoving fake oils into it! Instead of punishing your skin, pamper it by giving it the day off. Take a break from all your makeup products for a day and let your skin breathe. It will thank you by calming your breakout and reducing irritation.
3. GIVE BACK!
Nothing is better for your skin than a good nights rest, plenty of water and a few minutes in the sun every day. Rest and relaxation are reflected in the color and vibrancy of one's skin: notice how those dark under-eye circles lighten after an amazing mid-afternoon nap?! It helps circulate blood flow to the face and evens out skin tones. Water is not only amazing for your body but great for your skin and nails. Our skin needs that additional moisture to keep it young and supple, plus it prevents the hovering doom of wrinkles. Finally, a little bit of sunshine does your skin a whole lot of good. 15 minutes of Vitamin-D each day will improve your mood and stimulate healthy regeneration of skin cells.
4. READ THE LABELS!
Sadly, I work off of a very tight budget in my day-to-day life and have a hard time wanting to invest more than $50 in skincare as I'd rather be spending it shopping for clothes or going to a concert with Mr. for a date night. I know for many of you, that you're in the same boat. You want flawless Hollywood skin for low-to-no budget cost. I hate to tell you, that my only skin success stories have been a result of steeply priced products. I think of them as investments. Just like I stocked up on sweaters and scarves for my winter wardrobe, I also had to stock up on the right products and protection for my skin.
**For skincare, I've invested in Dermelogica Skin Care System and Obagi Nu-Derm Systems. For makeup, focus on mineral-based foundations and concealers, they have less artificial fillers and additives. A huge secret I've discovered many women are using is an at-home microdermabrasion tool called Clarisonic. I've used it a few times and fell in love, so now I'm saving up for one!**

The reason for writing this blog post is to be an encouraging friend along the way if you too have insecurities or shame about your skin. Regardless of the countless blogs I'm reading, no one ever admits to having skin imperfections and I'd love to be a support/give council to those who struggle like I do. Above all, keep your chin up, and know there are people and products to help!

Photo Credit: The stunning Anelisa Durham, a lifelong friend and my personal "perfect skin" inspiration, photographed by the talented Megyn Barroner. Makeup + Hair by: Brit Cochran

A Midsummer Daydream - Wedding Inspiration

When I first laid eyes on this lookbook with Katie Ermilio & Jamie Beck I was delighted. I've bookmarked the pages and keep returning to peek a look at the stunning french pallet and effortlessly falling architectural draping. Perfect, perfect, truly perfect. It's been a huge inspiration for me during the early stages of planning my wedding. Nothing short of original with a nod to the old traditions. Maybe I'll be wearing a pink dress too?!

In colors of Easter, in lady like shapes, in upper Manhattan isn’t she lovely?

Katie Ermilio Spring / Summer 2012 (I want all of it!)

Putting it Together

Michael and I have been engaged for 3 weeks, and so much of our wedding planning is complete! I'm so excited with all the progress we've made in such a short time, and guess what!?! We already have a date (ahhh)!!  Get ready for a summer wedding folks, I cannot wait to be a Mrs and spend my life with the man of my dreams.

I've got so much to say and so much to show you, but for now, here are just a few more photos of Mr. and my special day.

Girl Crush 1...2...3...

I'm beyond taken by these two. They have been "it" girls in my life for over 15 years, but lately they are knocking it out of the park! Mary-Kate is constantly redefining the meaning of bohemian chic, and Ashley keeps me on my toes with contemporary classic cuts and stunning patterns. If you've never been a fan, it's time to ditch the negative attitude and wake up to two of the most influential fashion icons of our time. Not convinced yet? Check out the best blog for all things Olsen, and keep your eyes peeled for the up and coming Elizabeth Olsen...sigh  - OlsensAnonymous

I spy Dip Dye

 Finally, one of my favorite trends is hitting the streets of the fashion world. From denim and textiles, to hair and home decor, even our nails are getting a taste of the dip-dye details. If you've not yet gotten yourself something with dip dye, do it yourself! Tint your hair, bleach your denim, or use dye to watercolor the hems of your favorite maxi dress. So many options, and it will completely refresh your look.
Photo Credit: Elizabeth Dye, Kevin Murphy hair, modeled by Abby Lee Kirshaw, unknown, Tanya Aguininga Designs, ASOS.com, Elizabeth's Jeans

Colorado: Day 5 - The Final Day

 For our final day in Colorado, Mr. took me to one of the prettiest places I've ever seen: Estes Park. It's a cute little mountain town, full of native american shops and beautiful jewelry, even some delicious handmade candies (hence the taffy box, yum)!! After enjoying brunch at one of the cutest cafes, Mr took me up to St. Mary's Lake about 5 minutes west of Estes Park. When we found it, it was so beautiful, covered in snow and half frozen. We played in the snow and ice for hours and had the most fun of our lives. After we were fully frozen, we packed up and headed back to Denver to catch our late night flight. I loved Colorado! 

Oh, and by the way... I AM ENGAGED!!!!! 

more to follow soon...