Last night, I hosted the DIY station for Refiner29’s pop-up shop, Tinseltown and had guests make and decorate their own holiday cards using Sarah Reynolds signature frame stationary.
The pop-up shop officially opens today and runs through the weekend. So head over to 201 Mulberry Street and do some holiday shopping, get a makeover (and tattoo — theirs a falsey station!), and make some cards!
{My DIY card station}
Who’s on top of their holiday shopping? Here are some of my personal picks of gifts I’ve gotten (mostly for myself) and loved!
1. Royal Apothic Conservatory Collection Candle in scent English Rose ($26) – this candle is lie a little piece of heaven. It’s a soy-blend wax and burns for 60 hours. It’s larger then it looks in the picture (5″h, 3″ square) and is gorgeous from package to scent. It’s like walking through a rose garden, the scent is superb.
2. Sarah H. Reynolds Original Frame Notecards & Envelopes ($22/set of 10) – I love sending cards and this versatile set includes two of each print of five original charcoal frame drawings and ten envelopes by NY based artist, Sarah Reyholds. Leave your love note, thank you, or even your own drawing or picture inside one of these beautifully drawn frame (or use stamps!) and send. I like that they are artsy and give you a foundation to customize the card and they work for number of different occasions so they are handy to have around.
3. International Sanctuary Beautiful Green Necklace ($40) – As seen in my video campaign with SpaFinder (and regularly in photos on my instagram page, I wear this necklace all the time. This website (and necklace) are amazing. iSanctuary works to help victims of human trafficking reintegrate by employing survivors. Their mission to end human trafficking through
What if I told you that during a stressful moment at work or an unnerving time at home, you could instantly transport yourself to a place of relaxation and happiness? Seems like an impossible feat at times, no? Lynette Lovelace, owner and creator of the lifestyle brand, Lifetherapy, will tell you otherwise.
Lynette’s story is inspiring. Hardship fell over her family in 2001, when her 2-year-old son was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness and needed major surgery. Fortunately her son recovered, but sadness hit again in 2008, this time with her 12-year-old daughter falling ill. As someone who values her family more than anything, I can’t imagine all that Lynette has been through and I have so much respect for her ability to stay so strong throughout both ordeals.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the beach, a lake or Central Park, there’s some key don’t-leave-home-without products that make the leisure day in the sun that much better. And with summer in full swing here are some of our top beach bag picks!
Morning routine: Start fresh!
1. Rembrant Deeply White Toothpaste – It’s an all-in-one fluoride toothpaste with Active Dental Peroxide that helps safely whiten below the enamel to remove deep and surface stains. I like that it offers a deep whitening without being too strong and makes for a pleasant brushing experience. The packaging is simple and clean and aesthetically looks great in my bathroom along with it’s Deeply White Mouthwash counterpart (which I also use). At 2.6oz, it’s big enough for your bathroom and yet small enough that it fits comfortably in most makeup cases if you’re on the go and need an afternoon freshen up.
2. Degree NaturEffects deodorant– With temperatures hitting close to 90 degrees do everyone a favor (including yourself) and apply! I use the orange flower + cranberry scent which smells lovely. As both an anti-perspirant & deodorant in one, it keeps me dry and is offers long-lasting protection. Plus it goes on smooth and has never given my clothes a single mark.
The gear!
3. THE BAG! People often use weekender bags interchangeably with beach bags and unless you’re packing for the whole fam that can get a little bulky (plus the bigger a bag, the more you’ll fill it with stuff you don’t need). I opt for the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote bag in size medium ($33.95). Opting for a size smaller then the weekender makes the bag much more comfortable to hold while still guaranteeing room for all your beach essentials.
Okay Kiehl’s fans, good news! The skincare brand is introducing a new fragrance category: Aromatic Blends!
Launching with four scents, Orange Flower & Lychee, Vanilla & Cedarwood, Nashi Blossom & Pink Grapefruit, and Fig Leaf & Sage; each Aromatic Blend is available in a Fragrance ($40/30ml, $75/100ml), Skin-Softening Body Lotion ($26) and Skin-Softening Body Cleaners ($24).
Formulated with sustainably sourced notes from all over the world, Aromatic Blends are designed to take Kiehl’s customers on a voyage through the lush countryside of Provence, a desert oasis in Morocco, the dense jungle of Uganda and the tranquil gardens of Japan. This journey will be evident through their window displays and reminiscent as you smell each, unique fragrance in-store.
While the collection doesn’t officially launch until July 10th (don’t worry, they are available now for pre-order on Kiehls.com), we’re excited to share a sneak peak of the Kiehl’s fragrances and the visuals!
Since kicking off Memorial Day weekend in the Hamptons, I have not spent a single weekend in New York — I think I’ve officially played into the NYC stereotype (you know what they say New Yorkers leave the city during the summer weekends). No, not really! While I’ll be spending plenty of future weekends in NYC, the time away has helped me perfect my beach destination weekender bag packing list. While the products may change (although I’m a bit of a loyalist), the list shall remain the same… (for now.)
1. A Large Tote/Beach Bag
Vineyard Vines Vineyard Classic Tote ($95) – great for a weekend escape and perfect size tote for the beach! It can comfortably fit my towel, sunnies, book, snacks and bottle of wine (beach approved). Plus I’m originally from Mass., so I gotta represent for my Vinyard friends!
2. Bathing Suit Holder
Henri Bendel Bendel Girl Bikini Bag ($38) -It’s everything I never knew I always needed! It’s amazing this Bendel’s girl went so long without a case for her wet bathing suit. Especially since I like to be at the beach until the very last minute or my getaway and don’t always have time to hang my suit to dry before packing it. (And I really dislike wasting plastic bags to carry it in.)
3. Bug Reppelant!
Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Towelettes (8 pack/$14) and Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Anti-Itch Spray ($10) – Mosquitos love me. Like, literally, I could be your walking bug repellant which is why I don’t leave my house in the summertime without an Avon’s Bug Towelette in my purse. It’s deet-free, affordable and it works, enough said. In fact, Avon’s entire Bug Guard collection is great (I just go with the towelettes for travel for convenience). Avon recently added an Anti-Itch spray to the collection and while I haven’t had the chance to use it (I haven’t been bitten yet!), I’m not traveling to a mosquito friendly destination (ahem Hamptons) without it. SIDE NOTE: If you enjoy games as much as I do, Avon also launched a super fun bug-squating game, BugBash on their Facebook page (get competitive with it and challenge a friend).
4. SPF!!!
Aveeno Hydrosport Sunscreen Spray with SPF 50 ($8.99) and Aveeno Positively Radiant SPF 30 ($16) – SPF is a must… always (unless you’re hanging out inside). The spray is great for in and out of the house, it’s no-fuss, no-mess and super lightweight! The Daily Moizturizer is great for my face and my favorite from the Aveeno line; it’s not oily, chalky or too heavy, which I prefer for summer. I’m so happy with it.
5. Flat Iron
T3 SinglePass Compact Flat Iron ($79) – Don’t let it’s compact, travel-friendly size fool you, this flat iron does it all; it smoothes out my hair and gets rid of frizz while straightening it, and it makes strands super shiny and modelesque. I have a thick head of long, curly hair and this baby heats up quick and delivers! It’s my weekend warrior!
6. Defrizz Oil
Pureology Precious Oil ($40) and Sally Herschberger Hyper Hydration Super Argan Serum ($15) – Now you may think two oils is overkill. And it probably is if I didn’t have completely normal hair until the humidity comes out (then I’m a walking Monica from the TV show Friends in those island episodes —you know what the reference). Pureology’s oil is perfect for anyone with colored hair. It’s Green Seal certified and contains 100% biodegradable ingredients in a paraban, sulfate and silicone free formula. I was introduced to this product by Wendy Belanger, Pureology Global Artistic Director and owner of Influence Salon in Calgary, Canada,who described it with something for everyone: “Sunflower seed oil is great for softness and color protection, coconut oil helps with elasticity, olive oil gives shine, and jojoba oil imparts moisture.” I like it because my ends need more moisture and shine since getting an ombre, it fights humidity and I even use a little extra to weigh down my hair intentionally to give my long tresses some definition in their wave without looking greasy. Sally Herschberger’s serum is great on dry hair and when my hair starts to frizz during the day. And unlike most oils it doesn’t leave that oily residue on my hands after application. The results are instant and it removes the frizz and smoothes out my strays without weighing down my hair. I like to think of it as my touch-up oil.
7. Hair UV Protectant
Living Proof Restore Revitalizing Spray ($26)— I think of this as SPF for my hair! Complete with UV protectant to shelf my strands from sun and heat damage from my flat iron. It’s super lightweight, making it an easy addition to my hair routine. Now if only Living Proof would just make it in travel size!
8. Lip Balm (with a little something something)
It Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Reviver ($20)- I use shade Je Ne Sais Quoi (which is a light pink), although I want to try the other shades (Love Story and Pretty Women). I’m fascinated by how something that doesn’t have a tinted stick, miraculously stains my lips, does all the work of an anti-aging lip treatment and chapstick and is paraben-free! Packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, acai, green tea, and white tea and combining the anti-aging superpowers of plum oil, cherry oil, shea butter, aloe, and jojoba, these ingredients all work together to condition, and nourish lips, and keep them from looking and getting wrinkly. And it feels oh so good on!
9. Self-Tanner
Beautisol Face Self-Tanner Need I Glow More? ($23)- fake it until you make it! I may not be getting a sun tan, (and probably attacking you with my SPF spray) but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to come back from a beach filled weekend, looking like I did! Beautisol is the first to create a skin-type-specific face self-tanning lotion and I use it all the time and have never broken out or it looks freakishly natural. Anyone thats ever complimented me on my tan will attest that I say, “it’s fake” with a little pride.
10. Cynthia Rowley Band-Aids
Cynthia Rowley for Band-Aid: Beach Sport Kit ($6.99) – While I have to admit the original collection of Cynthia Rowley for Band-Aid brand was my favorite, it wasn’t nearly as summery and colorful as the duos latest collection. The designer recently collaborated with Band-Aid s on a vibrant beach-friendly set that includes 20 qty waterproof bandages, and 4 qty Neosporin single use packets, wrapped in a plastic resealable case to keep the sand out. Great for anyone on the go and in your beach bag just in case someone gets a boo-boo. If I owned a car, you would fine a set in my glove-compartment.
Disclaimer: These products have been given to me over the years for post consideration. Most have already been featured and are now part of my list of must-haves. Pretty Connected was under no obligation to write this review.
I have such a strong appreciation for Jason Wu, he’s one of the few designers I’ve had the pleasure of following since attending his very first runway show in 2006. Since then Michelle Obama wore his gown for the presidential inauguration and the flood gates opened. Then came the Target line and now? Hopefully an expansion into home starting with Nest Fragrances Jason Wu Orchid Rain candle!
Isn’t it chic? In perfect Jason Wu fashion, the frame is adorned with a signature orchid-floral print inspired by his Spring 2012 runway collection. While the scent is unmistakably feminine, there’s a unisex appeal to the design that makes it fit for any shared spaces with your spouse or otherwise… The Orchid Rain candle, combines white orchid with nashi pear, pomegranate and goji berry to create an airy, fruity-floral scent that enhances any room both in fragrance and in aesthetic.
With that in mind, Bergdorf Goodman invites you to print a picture of it, cut it out and style it for your chance to win it!
The contest is open through June 13th. To enter, tweet @bergdorfs a picture of JASON WU Orchid Rain (using the DIY cut-out above) styled in your surroundings. . . the setting can be home, office, wherever you see fit – just remember to be really creative! They are looking for the five best submissions. When sharing your picture, be sure to tweet at @bergdorfs & use the hashtag #BGJasonWu. For complete details visit the Bergdorf blog or click HERE.
Meet Jason Wu & have your candle signed! Additionally, Bergdorf Goodman is hosting the designer for a meet and great on June 14 from 5pm – 6pm on the Beauty Level at 5th Avenue and 58th Street. If you would like to attend, RSVP at [email protected] OR by calling 212 872 8764.
As for how I styled this little marvel… In the bedroom.
NOTE: This candle is too pretty to just disregard after it’s burned out. Clean it out and re-use it as a holder! It can hold anything from a collection of markers or pens, hair elastics and bobby pins, jewelry and pins, loose change… the possibilities are endless!
The Nest Fragrance Jason Wu Orchid Rain Candle ($48) is available at BergdorfGoodman.com. Approximate burn time 45 hours.
Disclaimer: PC was given a complimentary candle by Bergdorf’s for review purposes and consideration of a post. PC was under no obligation, financial or otherwise to write this post.
If you work in beauty (or want to) then you should be familiar with CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women). It’s a non-profit organization comprised of industry leaders and members that offers professional development through mentorship, job counseling, and networking opportunities in all aspects of the beauty industry. They also hosts a series of events and educational speeches from some of the top beauty executives as well as conduct their annual CEW Beauty Awards.
Now in it’s 18th year, the CEW Beauty Insiders’ Choice Awards is the only awards program where the winners are determined exclusively by beauty industry professionals and selected by their members. To celebrate this years winners, we’re giving away two of our favorites to one lucky winner: Shiseido Replenishing Body Cream and Bumble and bumble Bb. Texture Hair(un)dressing Crème.
{WIN IT! Shiseido Replenishing Body Cream and Bumble and bumble Bb. Texture Hair(un)dressing Crème ($99 value)}
TO ENTER: Leave a comment under this post and tell me why you want to win OR what your favorite beauty product is. You can also enter by following us on on twitter, @PrettyConnected and tweeting us your answer using the hashtag #CEW
**Entries will be accepted until June 3rd at 8pm EST. US residents only. All federal, state and local laws apply.
Without further adieu, the winners of the 2012 CEW Beauty Awards are:
Mother’s Day is just around the corner and while flowers and a thoughtful card are always a safe bet (and take mom out to dinner while you’re at it), here are some other PC Mom picks. Most of these are our classic favorites, with the exception of a new brand to this site, Phebo!
WIN IT! Brazilian luxury perfumery brand, Phebo is debuting in the US at Macy’s nationwide for only a few months! Available until the end of July, we’re giving away the Phebo Soap Bar Trio Set ($24 value) in your choice of fragrance. Set includes: 2 Phebo bar soaps and 1 liquid soap in your choice of fragrance: Naturelle, Amazonian, Lavanda, Manha, Oriente, Primavera, Rose or Tropical. To view the complete assortment on flavors visit macys.com
TO ENTER: leave a comment on why you’d like to win!
Extra entries if you…
**Follow us on Twitter, @PrettyConnected and tweet to us why you’d like to win using the hashtag #MDay
**“Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/PrettyConnected and leave us a comment referencing this giveaway.
{PC Mother’s Day Gift Guide}
1. WIN IT (details above)! Phebo Soap Bar Trio ($24) – While this set comes in a several fragrances, I’m partial to the Flores de Primareva. Not only does it make you’re bathroom pretty in pink, it’s refreshing floral change to your conventional clean-scented hand soaps. Phebo is 100% vegetal based, using a wide range of essential oils, botanicals, herbs, spices and fruit oils in all of their products.
2. Tocca Candle (10.6oz/$38) – Cleopatra is a classic Tocca scent (it’s a light/clean aroma that blends cucumber and grapefruit), that I’m a fan of, however you really can’t go wrong with any of their candles (especially since they have recently expanded the line with so many more choices). They burn for roughly 60 hours.
3. Philosophy I think You’re Wonderful Pure Grace set ($32) – I’m not sure what’s better, the packaging or Philosophy’s cult favorite products, Pure Grace. In fact, I’m not sure I’ve ever met anyone that didn’t like Grace’s beautifully clean scent. The gift set includes Pure Grace Foaming Bath and Shower cream (8 oz.) and Pure Grace Perfumed Body Lotion (8 oz.). No need to wrap… the packaging says it all.
4. Royal & Langnickel 12-piece Silk Pro Set ($120)- Synthetic brushes have come a long way in the past 5years that there’s no reason animal hair needs to be involved to have a high-end, quality brush. There is every brush you could ever want in this set and they are all so soft, durable and animal-friendly. Quality brushes are
Yesterday, I had an event-full day of meeting some major industry experts at the Opensky beauty launch party.
Some of you may be familiar with Opensky — they are a shopping site that pairs industry experts in food, style, healthy living, kids and home to curate some of their favorite products and make them available to you. Fresh to the website is now BEAUTY! To name a few… Dr. Neal Schultz, MD, Pati Dubroff, Chandler Burr, Sue Devitt, Alicia Silverstone and Dr. Brandt are all curators for this new category and the product range for beauty spans over Hair, Makeup, Body, Fragrance, Skincare and Wellness.
I had some one-on-one time with Dr. Brandt (yes the Dr. Brandt!!) to talk yoga, summer must-haves, SPF and how to fight back against sun damage! Take a look:
For more on OpenSky, visit opensky.com
