Count Down Time - 5 SURPRISING Lessons I Learned From Beauty and Fashion Blogging

So many count down's about beauty and fashion!

I should do something offbeat.

As far as blogging goes, 2013 wasn't a great one -- new baby, growing toddler, and 10 pounds of postpartum weight. Even if I had cute clothes to wear, I barely squeezed into any of them. So I'm writing a different count down -- but still a list you girls might relate to.

5 SURPRISING lessons I learned from beauty and fashion blogging:

 

Loners aren't losers. Get it right. (Fashion Blog Post)

See the beautiful house behind me?

It's not ours.

I was only standing there for good lighting. Our new place is a much less expensive and much more modest home in a nearby neighborhood. Regardless, we're in the suburb now. 

Suburb? NEVER!!!!!!!!

Weekend Recommend - New Girlie Faves (Fashion and Beauty Blog Post. Mostly.)

Hello again. How was Christmas?

After a 2-months whirlwind of selling and buying a home, our family finally settled down. The holiday was fun and relaxed: presents, movies, and lots of food. Looking forward to the new year now, as well as getting back to blogging.

 

As always, I've discovered new products.

Quite a few of them, actually, in the past two months. Below are the ones you must hear about.

1. NARS Creamy Concealer

When it comes to coverage, I'm a MAC girl. But after seeing rave reviews about NARS, I fell under temptation's spell -- and NARS didn't disappoint!

My new NARS Creamy Concealer is both smooth in texture and light to feel. Most of all, though, is that it provided excellent coverage -- a gorgeous veil of smoothness that covered spotty parts and lasted all day. If you're in your mid-30's like I am, you'll appreciate NARS's quality coverage.

Christmas Party Outfit Ideas (Fashion and Beauty Blog Post)

Is it Christmas Eve already?

 

Unbelievable!

 

Are you excited yet?

 

Health Benefits of Ginger for Your Skin (Skin Care Blog Post)

Ginger is awesome.

I use it a lot.

I use ginger for cooking, brewing tea and sometimes baking too. It has an exotic flavor that's quite addictive. Even though ginger didn't help with pregnancy nausea, it helped with an upset stomach that comes once in a while.

I like ginger. I use it a lot. 

But I've never used ginger for skin care.

At least not until recently.

On the north side of Seattle, where my family lives now, there is a local grocer called Central Market that offers mostly natural products, including makeup and skin care. I've bought an eyeliner made with volcanic ashes there. The store carries neat stuff. When I saw GO Ginger Face Moisturizer (by the Ginger People), I knew I'd like it.

Who are the Ginger People?

Lessons I learned from selling our house for the first time

We are officially homeless.

Almost.

Our townhouse was recently listed, and it is under contract of mutual agreement -- or whatever the technical term is -- but basically, if all things go well, our place now belongs to a lovely couple we'll never meet.

It took just under three weeks. Not bad for a slow season.

Our family looks forward to moving on. 

 

This blog post might be totally useless to you.

Who comes to a beauty and fashion blog for real estate advice? But hey, you never know. Maybe the lessons below can help you in some way -- now or perhaps down the road?

Lessons I learned from selling our house for the first time:

Portland for a Weekend (Fashion Blog Post. I think?)

 

Portland is smaller than Seattle.

But it's lovely still.

And like Seattle, it's very Pacific Northwest -- as in full of personality. People in Portland pride themselves on being quirky: they wear birds in their hair; they rip up stockings on purpose; they walk around in Star Wars costume in public; and they serve jalapenos in cosmos.

I mistook the jalapenos for strawberries. My tongue is still swollen.

 

Why did I visit Portland?

Hump Day Food Porn

Breakfast

banana slices with all-natural peanut butter (Adam's brand) and honey.

Lunch

Thai black rice with scallion and eggs.

Afternoon Snack

Dried mango slices and oats-craisins-coconut flake mix.

Dinner

Baked salmon salad.

Dessert

Trader Joe's Belgian chocolate pudding.

All clean eats.

Well, mostly.

All delicious too.

Happy Hump Day!

Alpha Hydroxy Acids and How They Benefit Your Skin (Skin Care Blog Post)

 

What are alpha hydroxy acids?

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are acids found in the food you eat. In skin care, they improve appearance and heal damaged cells. You often find alpha hydroxy acids in moisturizers, peels and exfoliates. Just turn the bottle over and read the ingredients, you'll see familiar words like AHA, glycolic acid and such.

Common alpha hydroxy acids

There are five common types of alpha hydroxy acids: glycolic acid, citrus acid, lactic acid, malic acid and tartaric acid.

Glycolic Acid, one of the mildest of alpha hydroxy acids, comes from sugar cane. Citrus acid comes from citrus fruits like mangos and oranges; lactic acid comes from sour milk like yogurt; malic acid comes from apples; and tartaric acid comes from grapes.

All acids are natural, and are weak acids with small molecular makeup. In other words, they won't cause harm, but still penetrate into the top layer of your skin and act on the living cells there. (Anything OTC must contain a concentration of less than 10% anyway, per FDA regulation.)

Side note: there are also synthetic AHA's, so please read ingredients carefully when you purchase OTC products.

And how do Alpha Hydroxy Acids benefit your skin?

First of all, these acids are all-natural. They are much better than lab-created chemicals.

More so, though, is how these acids exfoliate. They are known to break down the "cement" that holds cells together -- dead cells included.

According to Journal of Biological Chemistry, when glycolic acid entered the keratinocytes, the predominant cell type in the outer layer of skin, it produced an acidic condition that caused a ph-imbalance in the cell, and activated an ion channel (TRPV3). The open channel then allowed an influx of calcium ions into the cell, overloading and killing it. This, then, stimulates new cells to grow.

Pretty cool, right?

Alpha Hydroxy Acids vs. Beta Hydroxy Acid

You've probably seen both contained in various skincare products. These ingredients sound similar, but are are very different, and have different purposes.

Beta Hydroxy Acid, or salicylic acid, is oil-soluble, and penetrates deep into pores. It's better for treating pimples, black heads and white heads.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids, on the other hand, are water-soluble, and are better for brightening, toning, and appearance-related problems.

Product Recommendation: Botanics Hydrating Night Cream

It's new. I've been using this night cream for a week, and it works.

Besides natural AHA's, the Botanics Hydrating Night Cream also contains plant extract and hibiscus. It lathered on smoothly, and left skin shiny and supple the next morning. Although the acid caused minor redness, I've seen improvement in skin's appearance -- it seems less dull -- within the past week.

You can find this night cream at Target, or on Amazon here. 

Find it here.

It's creamy, but not sticky.

Lathered on smoothly and felt great on skin.

Thanks for reading!

 

Again, I'm no skincare professional, and although all information in today's skin care blog post was thoroughly researched, I might have made mistakes.

 

If you see anything incorrect, please note it in a comment below.

 

Hope all the information helped.

 

See you next time.

 Skin Care Blog Post Source:

1. Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Web MD, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-977-ALPHA%20HYDROXY%20ACIDS.aspx?activeIngredientId=977&activeIngredientName=ALPHA%20HYDROXY%20ACIDS

2. Treating Wrinkles with Alpha Hydroxy Acids,
http://dermatology.about.com/cs/skincareproducts/a/aha.htm 

3. Exfoliate for Bright, Smooth and Radiant Skin, 
http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/anti-aging/_/exfoliate-for-bright-smooth-and-radiant-skin 

4. Researchers identify cellular basis for how anti-aging costmetics work
http://phys.org/news/2012-08-cellular-basis-anti-aging-costmetics.html

5. How do alpha hydroxy acids work?
http://chemistscorner.com/how-do-alpha-hydroxy-acids-work/ 

 

Outfit of the Day - Neutral and Layered (Fashion Blog Post)

Been crazy busy.

And this fashion blog post will be short. Just wanted to share a casual outfit from last week. Now that the weather's cold, I've been layering -- and doing so with neutral palettes.

I find neutral colors more suitable for women in their mid-30's, like myself.
 

Thanks for reading!

I hope to return to blogging regularly soon, and of course, catching up on your blogs as well.

Weekend Recommend - Printed Pencil Skirts (Fashion Blog Post)

Busy again!

Another family obligation interfered with blogging, but it's over.

For now anyway.

Two of my fashion faves are prints and pencil skirts.

Why?

Prints add dimension and pencil skirts are sleek and classy. The two of them together, then, creates an ideal item of clothing.

Unfortunately, most of my pencil skirts have been stored away since quitting (selling my soul) to Corporate America. But I've composed a few ideas and recommendations below for you to ponder over this weekend.

Hope you see something that catches the eye.

Black and white pencil by Calvin Klein

Printed panel skirt by Armani Exchange

Colorful and geo printed

Essential Paisley Pencil Skirt (Forever 21)



Spot-On Pencil Skirt w/ Belt (Forever 21)

Styling Ideas:

 

Thanks for reading.

Hope you have a wonderful, stylish weekend!

Weekend Recommend - Flashy Rings (Fashion Blog Post)

* I apologize for the strong attitude expressed in this fashion blog post. Please respect my opinion as I would yours.

 

Three things you shouldn't flaunt: money, appearance and brain power.

(Intentionally) advertising any of them makes you pretentious and self-absorbed.

Examples?

Price-dropping expensive stuff.

"...can't believe I sweated through my Juicy...they are like $50 a pair...hahahahaha..."

I don't care about your 50-dollar gym pants. Please take a shower.

Or, assuming you're better-looking than everyone else.

"...so-and-so looked at me funny...she's jealous 'cause I'm beautiful..."

Get a life - BOTH of you.

This is my absolute favorite:

"...according to the law of (some statistician with a name no one can pronounce), 50% of this class has below-average intelligence..."

No sh*t. If you and I were the only people left on earth, one of us has to be stupid - statistically-speaking and all. (And if we were being chased by flesh-eating zombies, I don't want to be the smart one, just the fast one.)

What should you flaunt?

Your engagement ring.

Now I wouldn't go around announcing the price tag or name brand, but diamonds are meant to look flashy -- and no one can help that. Your ring is a symbol of love -- devotion from the person you've committed to build a family with. It's okay to flaunt how proud you are of the man you love.

Flashy rings I recommend:

1. IRIS/DIA from Scottish Wildflower Collection

I like the flower shape. It's unique and delicate. Suitable for a younger bride-to-be.

 

2. The Glasgow from Scottish Towns Collection

Three stones, half moon cut -- modern, classic. It's a show piece.

 

3. The Kerrera of the Scottish Islands Collection

I don't usually like emeral-cuts, but this ring looks solid, and without much BS. Perhaps for a powerful woman? Like an attorney?

4. The STRONSAY of the Scottish Islands Collection

Striking oval-cut solitaire, sleek design and maximum protection for stone. This ring is both beautiful and practical.

5. The ERISKAY of the Scottish Islands Collection

The heart-shaped shoulders got me. This ring is simply divine. Out of all the choices today, this is my favorite.

sponsor mention

All rings today are from MaeVona by Maeve Gillies, multi-award-winning artist and designer, and proud Scott. Her passion for jewelry started at age 15, and she went on to obtain two degrees in jewelry and silversmithing. After three years as head of design for Domino in England, the largest Platinum jewelry manufacturer in Europe, Maeve went on to co-launch MaeVona. Her Celtic-inspired designs are ethnic, simple and one-of-a-kind, making her one of the freshest and most sought-after jewelers today.

If you fancy the engagement rings in today's fashion blog post, find more Celtic engagement rings at MaeVona.com.

Oh look. Sun's out.

And so am I.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Pregnancy Transitional Top - After Pregnancy (Fashion Blog Post)

When I was pregnant...

I strongly recommended bypassing maternity tops, and buying regular ones that are a couple of sizes bigger. I call them "Transitional Tops," because they cover a pregnant belly, and last til' after pregnancy. Most women won't return to pre-pregnancy form right away, and need new clothes anyway. Getting transitional tops can save a lot of money.

The purple top below, seen in this Pregnancy Fashion Blog Post, was one of the transitional tops that, surprisingly, lasted up til' now. I like how it's long and stretchy, and looks great with a belly or without.

Pregnant

Postpartum

I understand you might not be interested in pregnancy matters yet.

 

But just in case you were curious, I hope this fashion blog post, and the idea of "transitional tops," helped you out.

 

Have a nice day.

Why exfoliate skin? (Skincare Blog Post)

Let's be honest.

You're terrified of aging. You're terrified of wrinkles, crow's feet, discoloration, and sagging skin, but unfortunately, all of them creep in closer as you celebrate (yet another) birthday. The only way to prevent aging -- and deep down you know this -- is proper skin care.

And proper skin care includes consistent exfoliation.

All About Chelsea Boots (Fashion Blog Post)

By Victoria Moretti

Autumn is here and I always think it’s a magical time of the year. The leaves are changing colour and falling into heaps on pavements and in parks. There really does seem to be a smell of bonfires in the air and the ground feels crisper under foot. Autumn, naturally, is the season for boots. In my case, the boots that I will be wearing will be ankle length with elastic sides, none other than Chelsea boots. I am a fan of Chelsea boots, so much that I want to preach to the unconverted.


ECCO Women's Saunter Chelsea Flat Boot.
The Chelsea boot has a long and distinguished history, stretching back to very early Victorian days when they first worked out how to vulcanise rubber. That doesn’t sound like it would have much to do with fashion, but the vulcanising process made possible the elastic sides that are characteristic of Chelsea boots. Suddenly, fashionable Victorians had boots they could slip in and out of. This made it easier both for everyday tasks to be performed and for people to go horse riding. 


Limited Edition Women's Tribecaa Chelsea Boot by MIA.
However, the most recent fashion craze for Chelsea boots, who share a name with a London borough and the football club that plays at Stamford Bridge, is a little different. This time Chelsea boots are equal opportunity footwear for both men and women. They have been winning new friends not only because of their simple and stylish look but also because of their versatility. That’s the thing about Chelsea boots – you can wear them more or less anywhere.



Tommy Hilfiger Women's Edria Boot.
The typical look for me is to mix them with a pair of skinny jeans, contrasted with something chunkier and more autumnal above waist level. Maybe I’ll wear a chunky knit cardie, a wraparound blouse, or even a bomber jacket if I’m feeling daring. However, that’s just one of many looks. Like I said, there’s so much else you can do with these fabulous boots.


Schutz Women's Azucena Chelsea Boot.
So there seems to a general agreement among fashion observers (which is saying something) that tartan or plaid or whatever you want to call it is hot this autumn. Can you imagine tartan with Chelsea boots? So much in fashion is a matter of contrasts, the more vivid the better. Simple black ankle boots with a riot of geometric tartan patterns would look spectacular. You can’t get much more of an eye-catching contrast than that. It is the same with the current passion for animal prints of all kinds. Imagine an animal print tea dress, black tights and a pair of Chelsea boots just up to the ankle.

So whatever you’re up to this autumn, I recommend investing in a pair of Chelsea boots. They’re versatile and will look sensational however you choose to wear them!


DV By Dolce Vita Women's Thora Boot.

Thank you for reading.

And thank you Ms. Victoria Moretti. for providing the post.

 

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