If there was one beauty item I couldn't live without, it would be without a doubt, red lipstick (with concealer and mascara as close seconds if I'm choosy). And this fact may be why I have so many in my overflowing makeup arsenal. (What IS all that other stuff anyway?!) A bold red lip adds instant polish, ups the cool factor and is an accessory in it's own right. Here are a few of my rouge faves:
Splurge: Cle de Peau Beaute Extra Rich Lipstick #311 ($65, cledepeaubeaute.com)
Super highly pigmented, this show-stopping red lasts all day with minimal touch-ups, and the perfect cool blue-red tone is perfect for when you're in between teeth whitenings.
Steal: Sonia Kushuk Satin Luxe Lipstick in Classic Red ($9.99, Target)
True to it's name, this lipstick gives a satiny finish that instantly dresses up even the most basic t-shirt and jeans. Add stripes to channel your inner French Girl.
Splurge: Anastasia Liquid Lipstick in Sarafine ($20, AnastasiaBeverlyHills.com)
OK, not technically a lipstick...BUT although it applies like a gloss, it has none of gloss' stickiness and wears forever.
Steal: Maybelline Color Sensational Creamy Matte Lip Color in Siren in Scarlet ($8, drugstores)
When it comes to red lips, matte feels more impactful, and for less than $10, this one can't be beat!
What's your favorite red lipstick?
-MC-
Life Lately...
Image Source: Vogue
So here's the thing - I apparently fell off the face of the earth. I couldn't believe it when I looked back at my last entry - APRIL!?! Surely that was wrong, but lo and behold, it was not, and this was/is a problem. Life happens as it does - work, house-hunting, wedding season, summer travel, grocery shopping, major milestones, lead remediation, birthdays - and here it is, the end of July. Seriously. And as a result, writing has fallen to the wayside. But I'm back after my unintentional hiatus and determined to refocus with fresh ideas, new recipes and loads more content. Cue end of tirade. Thanks for bearing with me!
-MC-
Friday Finds
Image Source: Ditte Isager as seen in Harper's Bazaar
Who knew there was so much to learn about cutting board maintenance?
It's time to re-evaluate our media diet.
Giving these jean alternatives some serious consideration.
This cheat sheet on keeping houseplants alive is mandatory reading.
How to sip your way to a flawless complexion. (Spoiler alert: Lots of water ahead.)
Our new-found favorite day date spot is here.
Happy Weekending!
-MC-
Currently Crushing On: A Blush Shoe Moment
Image Source (clockwise): M. Gemi/Ivanka Trump/J Crew/424 Fifth/Matt Bernson
To instantly up the flirty factor, add a blush shoe. Heeled, flat, sandal, loafer...the shade goes with everything, works in nearly every style and is a fun take on a traditional nude hue. Plus it helps elongate the legs - always a good thing! Pair open-toed options with similarly monotone polish shades - whites and pinks look feminine and chic - or contrast in bold tones - think tangerine or mint - for an unexpected pop!
-MC-
Friday Finds: Spring Fling Edition
Image Credit: KevinCafaro
The first day of spring, it snowed. And although it was really just a dusting, it was as if Mother Nature was saying, "Now wait just a minute..." Thankfully it seems spring has spring (for real) and not a moment too soon! Here a few things I'm excited about this season:
- Farmer's Markets - We try to eat as seasonally as possible, and I'm so ready for zucchini, artichokes, fresh herbs, and sweet peas. Here is a cheat sheet for what produce to pick up this season.
-Tulips! Any color, any style, and combination is perfect. They add instant springiness (real word?) to any room and the more, the merrier!
- Banishing tights (and socks) for good. Each year, I do this rather stupid thing where once I stop wearing tights, I can't go back. Instead, I'll opt for fun patterned pants (these wide leg and these paisley print are amazing!) or jeans, flats and slightly chilled ankles. Does this make total sense? Not really, but it's a self-inflicted rule that I refuse to break. My bare ankles take a stance and will the warm weather upon us.
- Weekend escapes. We try to get out and explore all year round (two weeks ago we stayed in a 19th century lighthouse!), but doing so in the spring (and the fall) is the best! Warm enough to venture out of the car to check out hidden spots, but without the summer traffic!
- My Birthday!!
- Bike Rides. Lazy afternoon rides near the beach are my favorite. How fun are these cruisers in aqua?!
What's on your spring to-do list?
-MC-
Kitchen Crush: Father of the Bride
Image Source: tumblr
If there ever was a kitchen to crush on, it would have to be the dreamy one from Father of the Bride. A classic from start to finish, this kitchen was probably the first one I ever stopped and took notice of. (And obviously it is the handiwork of Nancy Myers.) While it clearly has a 90's vibe, it is full of timeless elements that still inspire envy.
Image Source: HookedonHouses
Image Source: HookedonHouses
Image Source: Pinterest
Finding great interior shots of the kitchen was a bit tricky, but the above give a glimpse into this homey kitchen full of white, cream and butcher block. Here are a few ways to incorporate a touch of this classic look into your kitchen.
Image Source: Pot Hanger, Door Topper, Butcher Block, Glass Cookie Jar, Kitchen Island, Canister Set, Kitchen Aid Mixer, Copper Pans
Eager to recreate the exact look of the Father of the Bride House? Look no further! You can actually purchase plans to create it here.
-MC-
Craving Warmth
I don't know about you, but I'm seriously ready for some sun, and not the hovering-slightly-above-freezing sunny day we had today. After a few scrolls through Instagram, where it seems like everyone is at the beach, I'm ready to pack my bags for warmer locales. Here is what I'd bring!
1. J-CrewSunglasses in Betty/ 2. Dolce & Gabbana /3. Tuckernuck Tassle Earrings / 4. Eugenia Kim Fedora/ 5. Tory Burch Tunic/ 6. Butter London Polish in Jolly Good 7. Castaner Espadrilles/ 8. Calypso Tote
Here's to thinking warm thoughts!
-MC-
Friday Finds
I'm dreaming about this delicate, layerable jewelry collection, especially this bracelet!
Reason 1001 why old Hollywood was classier than today - their vacation style.
For those who love to bake, this is a game-changer.
Why featuring some greenery in the bathroom might be the best idea ever.
This blush shoe moment has me craving spring!
Happy Friday!
-MC-
8 Robes That Are Ready for Spring
Pretty Plum Sugar
Daylight savings time is officially less than one month away (but whose counting?!), and I'm craving some sunny vibes. I've already switched up my bedding for a lighter, yet still cozy feel, indulged in some iced lattes, from under a heavy throw, and am ready to trade in my robe for a lighter, brighter version. While that may be jumping a bit too far ahead (it's literally snowing as I write this!), these lightweight beauties have me ready for spring.
1. Eberjay - Super delicate and feminine, this robe can easily be bridal, but doesn't have to be limited to just the big day.
2. Oscar de la Renta (Bloomingdales) - A fun poppy pattern makes it an easy transition piece.
3. Ralph Lauren (Bloomingdales) - A total classic. I love that it looks borrowed from the boys, but is still trim.
4. Pretty Plum Sugar - This one is my favorite! I love that it comes in a light and short version. And the eye mask? What's not to love?!
5. Pretty Plum Sugar - Featuring a soft poppy pattern, this is a fun, spring-y wrapper.
6. Calvin Klein - Incredibly soft, this dove gray option is the perfect weight to wear alone or thrown over pjs.
7. Oscar de la Renta (Bloomingdales) - I love this one! It begs to be taken somewhere sunny and the bright pattern could make for a fun cover up.
8. DKNY - Sure, it's black, but it's timeless and the texture is completely luxe.
-MC-
Fireside Chic
Image Source: Audrey Hall for On Site Managment
El Nino may have tricked us into thinking about spring in December, but Blizzard Jonas has blown in to remind the East Coast what winter is all about. The wind is howling, snowflakes are frantically swirling and a couple literally just cross-country skied down our street. This winter wonderland has me dreaming of our upcoming ski trip and curling up in front of a fire. Here are a few dreamy fireplaces that are keeping me warm until then:
Image Source: Veranda
Image Source: Elle Decor
Image Source: Pinterest
Image Source: Southern Living
-MC-