Dressed.

Posted in Fashion by C.

{Click image to enlarge.}

It’s on record that I was a bit of a late bloomer when it came to embracing dresses. I fondly recall wearing them as a six-year-old, but as I moved toward adolescence – I stopped wearing them pretty much altogether unless it was for a very rare special occasion. I went through a lengthy period where I just felt more comfortable in jeans (read: covering my legs). In fact, it wasn’t until just a few years ago that I actually even started buying dresses again. (If I met me 10 years ago, I wouldn’t even know me!)

However, as I’ve gotten ~~old~~ older, I find myself accepting my femininity much more than I ever have. I’m not at all saying that being in a dress over a pair of jeans epitomizes femininity by any means, because it doesn’t; but because of my resistance to them – I’m attributing this recent development to finally giving in to the fact that I’m becoming more comfortable in my own skin.

I still don’t own as many dresses as a typical woman might at my age, but as I’ve hit a recent new chapter in my life, I’ve felt a sudden shift in my relationship to them. I appreciate the different shapes of a dress, the movement, the ease; and yes, even the new-found comfort that I get in exchange. While part of me will always be a jeans girl at heart, it’s nice to not have the waistband digging into your stomach (because you’ve had one cupcake too many) or experience the constraint that you just deal with while wearing a pair of cute skinnies in the name of fashion! Even better, I’ve come to love how a simple change in styling/accessorizing can take a dress from weekend casual to office chic (by easily adding a blazer). There’s an incredible versatility when you have a good dress in your closet.

And thus, I’ve been coveting a new dress (showing my legs and all) lately. Go figure!

In an ideal world, they’d all be in my closet ready to greet the sun and celebrate the warm days ahead. In reality, a post dedicated to getting “dressed” will simply have to do. Here are 15 of my absolute favorites, at a variety of price points – because let’s be real – who in the world can actually afford a $400 dress most of the time (and I hate when bloggers only showcase high-end designers).

Perhaps a splurge on at least one is in order in the very near future. From Forever 21 to Shopbop….here’s to getting dressed. xx

Sources/Links

1. | 2. | 3. | 4. | 5. | 6. | 7. | 8. | 9. | 10. | 11. | 12. | 13. | 14. | 15.

21Mar2014

Highlights

Posted in Life by C.

highlights balboa lake

{Lake Balboa at sunset.}

The best thing about this time of year is daylight for a few extra hours after work. There’s something so motivating in that to me. When I leave the office and it’s still bright outside, I’m inspired to be active. Oh, who am I kidding? It also vainly helps that “legs weather:” shorts, dresses, and skirts, start in 3,2,1…

Admittedly, when it’s dark at 5:30pm after a long day, the last thing I want to do is hit the gym. Between that and the holidays (where all you do is eat anyway), I inevitably start slacking on exercise in favor of my couch. I mean, it’s so much more gratifying to head home, wrap yourself in a blanket, and eat dinner in front of the TV, right? Trust me, this train of thought doesn’t give me solace on the nights that I do opt to do this. The point is, no matter how much I try to talk myself out of it, I always feel better after a sweat session.

Fast forward to Monday evening, and on one of the few nights a week I spend alone, and I didn’t want to simply go home and veg. I wanted to be outside, to feel the remnants of a sunny day on my face, be around something beautiful, and just move my body. I got home, quickly threw on a t-shirt, some leggings, and sneakers and out I went. I mean, I didn’t even sit down and have a glass of water. I knew that if I did, it might be hard to get back up.

highlights sneakers

{Sneakers are on!}

Not only did it feel nice to get out and move, breathe in some fresh air (while trying not to choke on all the gnats flying around), but watching the sun set over Lake Balboa (pictured above) was the icing on the cake – and one of the highlights of my week. While I’m a pretty health conscious person, and aim to make the right diet choices (but if you put a french fry in front of me, I’m eating it!), there’s certainly room for improvement. I’m making the choice to use the official change to spring temperatures, the extra daylight, and the vanity of “leg weather” to do better and to be better.

Here are a few more highlights from my week – interestingly food/beverage specific…so I clearly have some work to do! Have an amazing, motivating weekend. Get outside and grab some fresh air if you can! xx

italian soda

{Enjoying my first peach Italian Soda this year, and Essie’s “Watermelon” nail polish.}

spring lunch

{Veggies for lunch + a book outside = a perfect mid-day break.}

shorter hair

{A little hair chop feels good. The selfie in the car (since I hate taking pictures), debatable.}

“You can cut all the flowers but you cannot keep Spring from coming.”
― Pablo Neruda

19Mar2014

What I’m Lovin’ Right Now

Posted in Series by C.

Spring header

Spring officially joins us tomorrow and I can’t tell you the joy this time of year brings. Though we’re nearly a quarter of the way through the year, it seems like it’s when spring arrives that I feel like something new is truly happening. With spring comes the dreaded but oh-so-delightfully rewarding spring cleaning; Sunday trips to the farmers’ market to stock up on the freshest produce; and an excuse to live in lite, bright clothing from now until October. Being that I’m your very cliché California girl, the latter is what I’m most excited about.

I’ve been spending the last few days thinking about my goals for this season, and perhaps I’ll delve into those for another post on another day. I can say, a good spring cleaning is in the works, as usual, but I’m aspiring to something even greater. Always one to feel most alive when I’m learning or experiencing anything new – I’ve been itching to take a class. I’ve always wanted to learn Italian, but have shied away from taking the chance. And I do love a good craft-based class to blow off some creative steam. We’ll see where the season takes me.

Here are a few things that are making me smile about this forthcoming development we call spring. Here’s what I’m lovin’ right now…

1-what i'm lovin' right now

Watermelon Breeze Mocktail | Drop Dead Gorgeous Daily

Kelly & Katie Ladylike Hard Form Satchel | DSW

Blanca Dried Flower Arrangement | Etsy

7 Questions to Ask When Cleaning Out Your Closet | The Everygirl

Classic Pave Link Bracelet | J. Crew

Black Polka Dot Journal | Sugar Paper, Los Angeles

Essie’s “Watermelon” Nail Polish | Target

Darling Daisy Dress w/ Belt | Forever 21

Stay in Touch: Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin‘

17Mar2014

With Gratitude…

Posted in Life by C.

with gratitude - atg

{Saturday mornings.}

You couldn’t have asked for a more gorgeous LA weekend! We just might skip spring altogether and head straight into summer at the rate that we’re going. No kidding boys and girls, my air-conditioning was on most of the day on Sunday to combat 90° temperatures just outside my door.

While it turned out be a rather lazy weekend as to be expected, I did manage to get out and have one of the best deep tissue massages I’ve EVER had (I’m still slightly sore from the “work-out” Pietro gave me, but I literally floated through the rest of the day I was so relaxed). After a successful stop at Trader Joe’s (meaning I actually found a parking space without having to growl at anyone), then an all too successful stop at Target for the essentials (and those not so much, because, hey – it’s Target)! I was on track for an amazing weekend.

And yet, though the sun was shining and I had everything I needed around me, I couldn’t shake this small funk I found myself in on Sunday for reasons I won’t bore you with. Nothing in particular happened (though as I write this, I can pinpoint where things took a turn Saturday afternoon). I suppose it’s just the ebb and flow of being human. We must embrace the highs with the lows and not beat ourselves up over it.

I know the best thing to do when you feel yourself slipping into a pity party for one, is to stop, take a deep breath, and focus on the good. It’s not exactly helping that it’s also Monday – you know, my favorite day of the week (enter sarcasm). I thought I would start the week with 10 things (large and small and in random order) that I’m grateful for at the moment to shake things up, lift this nasty funk, and get me back to the light.

With gratitude for…

Everything about the picture above from Saturday morning. French toast with fresh-cut strawberries, eggs with avocado, and an iced coffee I made for breakfast. Add in my kindle on “Chapter One” of a new read I’ve been waiting over a month to start (because I was #22 in line on the holds list at the library forever) and I couldn’t have been happier.
The universe put a sweet guy in my life (and he made me dinner on Saturday AND Sunday AND brought me macaroons for dessert).
Steady employment (always a good thing and in the industry I actually studied in college – go figure!).
Essie’s “Watermelon” nail polish. My at home mani/pedi over the weekend have my nails ready for spring.
My health! Duh. (This should probably have come up sooner on the list).
My “little” brother. He’s not exactly little anymore (though he always will be to me). Who knew the little guy following me around bugging me all day, everyday, incessantly as a kid would turn out to be a best friend?
All I have to do is think back to the days when all I wanted was a car to go anywhere my heart desired. I watched with much envy in high school as friends of mine got that freedom much sooner than I did because I couldn’t afford a car. Hands down, this is STILL one of the best parts about being an adult: having a car I LOVE to drive with a full tank of gas to go anywhere I want…and I don’t even have to ask.
Hot Tamales (yes, you read that right).
The art of cinema, my obsession.
Blogging. At this moment, that funk that I was in when I started this post has somehow, someway…just evaporated.

Let’s not forget the small things and live in gratitude. It’s the only way. Have a great week!

Love & Light,

Candi

14Mar2014

Highlights

Posted in Life by C.

1-2014-03-10 09.17.43

{A scene from my desk, currently.}

Not a bad week here, which is always a good thing to report. I find myself ready to embrace the change of seasons. Though the weather is already channeling Spring, I can’t believe that it’ll officially be here 6 days from now. I’m so ready.

The highlights of life lately were in the small things that celebrate the warm sunny days ahead: a new pair of sandals in a cheerful color (and on serious sale!), bright flowers around my apartment, and enjoying juicy sweet strawberries for the first time in months among them.

Being on a budget (as always) makes it hard to really go after all the ways that I’d like to celebrate the arrival of Spring, but I’m happy with these small inexpensive pleasures to start. Of course, there are other ways to enjoy the days of spring for free and that’s outdoors: walks around Balboa Lake, hikes to the Hollywood Sign, and lazy days on the beaches of Malibu.

It’s expected to be a quiet weekend on my end. I’m looking forward to starting a new read on my Kindle and running those rather mundane errands that you tend to have to do on Saturdays, but will dedicate some time for an at home mani/pedi. The one thing about this time year is that you have to be a bit more attentive to those toes when wearing sandals. Unquestionably, what I’m beyond excited about this weekend is finally cashing in on a Groupon I purchased awhile back for a deep tissue massage. It’ll literally be my first professional massage in two years! Massages where one of those heavenly indulgences I gave up when I moved into my own place and had to cut back on expenses. I can’t even describe the joy.

Happy weekend!

1-78f7da43d3df0bed580397b281192124

{In love with these Kelsi Dagger sandals. An unusual color choice for me, but I’m feeling very “Spring” at the moment.}

1-1-2014-03-10 09.16.02

{More gorgeous flowers from Trader Joe’s around the house.}

1-2014-03-09 12.40.34

{The model from Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel currently on display at the Arclight in Hollywood.}

1-2014-03-13 14.41.45 (1)

{There’s nothing like California sunshine.}

12Mar2014

The Power of Photography

Posted in Explore, Museums by C.

Where: The Annenberg Space for Photography

Location: 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Century City

Every time I step into the courtyard of the Annenberg Space for Photography, I look up at these two massive buildings that form a cocoon around me and somehow forget the hustle and bustle of Santa Monica Boulevard just beyond. This is quite ironic given that this same courtyard is shared with other prominent businesses, namely Creative Artists Agency, likely making it quite the opposite of experiences Monday through Friday as talent agents wheel and deal on their next big project. However, on the weekends, most of the activity is to your far right at what has become one of my favorite (and free!) ways to spend a weekend afternoon, checking out the latest photography exhibition at “The Space.”

ATG - Annenberg Exterior

{Exterior, The Annenberg Space for Photography.}

I’ve seen a handful of exhibitions at The Annenberg Space for Photography over the last 3 years since discovering this gem among the massive buildings, ranging in visual commentary, genre, and tone. Themes span from topics such as the social connotations on the culture of beauty, to those who helped shape the evolution of rock & roll music, to capturing the risk and devastation of war photography. Without fail, I find each exhibition to be more engaging than the last.

1-atg1

{A few of the stills shared outside the galleries in the courtyard.}

Currently on display at “The Space” is a visual tribute to National Geographic Magazine’s 125th anniversary, known for publishing some the most recognizable and iconic images in history, aptly titled “The Power of Photography.” The Annenberg transforms nearly every single ounce of wall space into a mosaic, sharing over 400 photographs from Nat Geo’s famed collection. With nearly 11.5 million photographs in their archive, narrowing down the selection to put on display would be a challenge for anyone. I applaud how they chose to overcome such a challenge. Alongside the overwhelming print mosaic gracing its walls, the exhibition is expressively curated with 30 large, high-definition, LED screens installed into the walls – showcasing 501 images with stunning clarity, looping every 50 seconds or so.

What is quite magnificent about “The Power of Photography” exhibition is that because the screens are in a constant state of flow, looping through hundreds of images, you could walk the entire length of the show and start fresh or come again on another day – where you are guaranteed a new experience. This sounds pretty amazing in theory, and it is! Unfortunately, I also found it hard to navigate because of this.

This where my one criticism lies with digital exhibitions, particularly, in small spaces. Unlike print stills that invite you to look at the work and move on, multiple graphics in one place is quite the opposite. When the main attraction is on a large screen slowly sifting through images, it can only help but draw crowds of people to stand in front of each screen for long periods of time, creating clusters of people around you that disrupt your interaction with the works of art. If you’ve ever been to the Annenberg, it’s not the biggest of galleries. In fact, this is a complaint that I often have visiting here. It hasn’t deflected me from attending their amazing exhibitions because it still is one of the best curated galleries in town, but is a problem when visiting The Space on the weekends.

As you maneuver though the crowds in an attempt to absorb the photographs, what ultimately redeems itself, despite the cramped experience, is the work of art. You’re instantly struck by the the emotion in many of the images published in National Geographic Magazine throughout the years. I was awed as I took in vast architectural structures, the most eclectic of animals, portraits of people from all over the world, images capturing the conflict in humanity, while highlighting its undeniable beauty. I’ve been inspired to look into getting a National Geographic subscription to keep that awe with me long after the exhibition closes next month.

Unfortunately, due to copyright, photography is not allowed inside “The Space,” but the Huffington Post wrote a great article last fall sharing 15 of the highlights on display.

It’s quite amazing if you think about it. Photography, one of the oldest of visual mediums and artistic expressions, seems to be growing with age. Nearly everyone has a camera on their phone today. Instagram (a personal favorite on mine) now has over 150 million active users. And the blogoshpere continues to share stories using images to enhance their words. The point is that “The Power of Photography” is proving itself to be timeless.

The exhibition runs until Sunday, April 27th.

1-atg

7Mar2014

Highlights

Posted in Life by C.

Screenshot_2014-01-24-09-04-56

{Shhh! But don’t tell anyone.}

Happy Friday, All! Is it just me or was this like the looongest week everrrr? And yet, I can’t believe it’s MARCH already. On top of that, it seems like everyone is getting sick, and the total germaphobe in me finds me being completely comfortable taking a more anti-social approach to life for the time being. I’m avoiding sick people like the plague, I’ve had enough health drama this year!

This is where I share a bit of superficial, yet great news… my life is filled with lattes once again (though decaf and not daily…I’m easing my way back in). Thank GOD, the lingering annoyance with my stomach has been improving. I know I need to continue to take it easy to give my body a chance to fully heal – but man, did that first iced latte put a pep in my step. It’s the small things.

I’m going to keep it short today. I’m looking forward to a weekend filled with bacon for breakfast, 80 degree weather (be jealous), a good book, and a splurge on something I want (not something I need). What that is, I don’t quite know yet. All I know is I feel like celebrating. Things are looking up!

Don’t forget to spring forward on Saturday night before bedtime. Sunshine filled days and 7:30pm sunsets are just around the corner again.

Have a good weekend…

latte

{My first latte in what felt like forever. And yes, I reveled in it.}

rain

{Taking a moment to watch a rare rainy day.}

sunset

{…then an amazing sunset the next.}

5Mar2014

You Can’t Eat Beauty

Posted in Inspiration by C.

Believe it or not, I can remember a time before the introduction of that little thing we call “the internet” made its way into the common household. I can’t even imagine what life would be like today if I couldn’t simply jump on-line to stay in touch with friends near and far with a simple Facebook “like,” email, or Google Hangouts session; check traffic to plan my way around town; catch-up on current events; pay a bill; peruse the blogosphere; or find nothing less than inspiration (overload) on Pinterest.

What has to be one of the most powerful things about the world wide web as I see it, is not only the ease of accessing any bit of information with the click of a mouse, but how we can share wisdom, what we’ve learned as we navigate through our days, never knowing how our message impacts those who find it in cyberspace.

On a rather ordinary Monday evening, I stumbled across this video in my Facebook news-feed of a recent speech from Lupita Nyong’o at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon as she accepted an award for Best Breakthrough Performance. As I’d come to expect since following her career, I was prepared to hear her speak eloquently and thoughtfully. But THIS, I did not expect. Her take on how she’s learned to find beauty in herself in a world that traditionally celebrates pale skin and light eyes, floored me.

I’ve watched this video at least 4 different times now and it gets me every single time. I’ve shared it on Facebook, Twitter, and decided to dedicate some space on my blog today to spread the word on what has to be one the most poignant, profound, yet simple messages I’ve ever heard on the subject of beauty.

I can’t stop thinking about it.

Of course, we all want to look and feel our best. Essentially, we just want to be our best. And I don’t personally think that there’s anything wrong with that. However, the pressure to fit into a mold is where we need to learn to draw the line. Eight words from her mother and years spent reflecting on them before she found her way, was all it took. Lupita shares her story in the short clip below.

It’s moments like this that make that little thing we call “the internet” more than just a tool to make the day-to-day easier or a source for staying connected while equally creating disconnection. It’s moment’s like this that make the world wide web not such a big place after all.

“You can’t eat beauty. It doesn’t feed you.”

3Mar2014

2014 Academy Awards: The Best Moments and the Top 5 Best Dressed

Posted in Fashion, Film by C.

1-Blend-004

As we bid adieu to what was one of the heaviest rain systems we’ve seen in years in LA (yes, we’re OK!), we also say a final farewell to a powerful year in cinema with the biggest celebration of them all, the Academy Awards. I was so thrilled to see all of my predictions win the major categories. I was especially ecstatic to see Lupita Nyong’o and 12 Years A Slave take home well-deserved statues last night. Though I saw that film nearly 5 months ago, it still gives me the chills when I think about it. And to me, that’s the epitome of masterful film-making.

Ellen DeGeneres was simply delightful and managed to carry the broadcast forward with humor and grace. I can’t image a tougher gig to land in Hollywood, because it’s also the most critiqued the next day. What I found so refreshing about her was how comfortable and completely in her element she was, seemingly un-phased by the pressure. (And I’m sure Samsung is over the moon with that blatantly obvious product plug.) Overall, for a nearly 4 hour presentation – I thought it was well done. And if I do ever have a moment of doubt, I just think back to the year Anne Hathaway and James Franco hosted and I’m suddenly more confident in my assertion.

And can I just stop and take a moment to salute:

Pink on that incredible tribute to Judy Garland.
Harvey Weinstein for tipping the pizza guy.
Matthew McCounaghey for the most surprisingly engaging speech…
…but Lupita Nyong’o for the most moving speech of the night. (We’re talking goosebumps, people!)
And let’s just say that Pharell makes me “Happy.”

Now on to the fashion!

Like last year, I was a bit disenchanted with the night’s fashion. Don’t get me wrong, there were some fabulous dresses on the red carpet, but I had very few WOW! moments (there are only 2 on record). This is always quite perplexing to me. The night to really show-off and add that “I’m a movie star” glamour is on a night like this. My philosophy would be to go all out and make ’em jealous!

The good news is that there we a handful of starlets that got it right among of the many safer and less dramatic looks of the evening. Here are my top 5 best dressed on Oscar night, with honorable mentions to follow.

Who were your favorite looks?

NUMBER FIVE: Lupita Nyong’o | Designer: Prada

What a stand-out on the red carpet last night. Aside from being the only starlet to boldly rock a bright color among a flurry of pale and darker-colored dresses; she was also the most playful, by creating a solid theme when coordinating this whimsical look. The Grecian-style design, paired with a sparkling encrusted headband is refreshing, yet sophisticated. Lupita is and looks every part the goddess in this light blue number by Prada. Bravo!

1-f6f4a940-a266-11e3-b239-7d09c756fe0d_LupitaNyongo

NUMBER FOUR: Charlize Theron | Designer: Dior Haute Couture

What would look like something is totally missing on anyone else, not only looks complete, but oh-so-polished on Charlize Theron. The reason this dress works is because it’s a risk, and one of the very few of the night on the red carpet. Clear straps on a dress like this could look totally ridiculous, particularly as your eye is drawn to the bottom where you’d expect a simple straight line thinking “don’t overdo it, Charlize.” Instead, she greets you with two last embellishments: pleated organza strips creating a fuller more mermaid-inspired skirt…and a train! By far, she had on my favorite piece of bling of the night with that stunning Harry Winston drop necklace. Ladies and gentleman, this is a movie star!

1-41160790-a26b-11e3-aacd-1ff334314e3f_CharlizeTheron

NUMBER THREE: Sandra Bullock | Designer: Alexander McQueen

It’s hard to believe this woman is turning 50 this year! Sandra Bullock is a testament that some things do get better with age (and perhaps some Botox – but to each his own, no judgement here if/when it’s done right). This midnight blue Alexander McQueen dress is such a stunner. I can only imagine that if this striking hue came across so well on-camera, how show-stopping it must have been in person. Aside from being my favorite color of the night, the elegant drapery at the waist paired with just the right amount of fabric at the train makes it the definition of evening gown glamour. The rest is in the details: the side swept tresses, the Lorraine Schwartz half lobe sparkling studs (so on trend right now, we’ll be seeing this A LOT), a simple bracelet, and yes, I even adore the blue nail polish. This is Sandy at her best. And to boot, I L.O.V.E. that she’s maintained such a positive reputation in Hollywood. Rumor has it, she’s one of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet. Bonus points!

1-035e5430-a26f-11e3-a16f-a394e4559bf0_SandraBullock

NUMBER TWO: Kate Hudson | Designer: Atelier Versace

Kate Hudson was slated to be my dressed of the night when I saw her walk out onto the Oscar stage in this gorgeous silver beaded Versace gown with the best glow the night (I need to find out who does her facials and book an appointment ASAP!). The deep plunging neckline to the belly button is always a risk (hello, wardrobe malfunction), but she has the perfect frame to keep it sexy, yet classy. Minimal jewelry is the right way to go with a dress such as this because the intricacy and embellishment alone makes this gown one huge piece of fine jewelry. I’m infatuated with the simple knotting and drapery at the waistline to just below the hips giving a touch of exaggeration elevating this dress to one of the best of the night. To make things even better, the gown is still incredibly chic with or without the removable cape. This was one of two pure WOWs of the night. The other went to…

1-83f5c070-a26e-11e3-9b03-a5ff66e534f3_KateHudson

BEST DRESSED: Jenna Dewan-Tatum | Designer: Reem Acra

Jenna Dewan-Tatum is quickly becoming one of my absolute favorites on the red carpet. She nails it EVERY time in my book. I can’t image too many ladies being able to pull of a near flesh tone dress with such elegance. The silhouette is incredible and I adore the sequined bodice that subtly leads to an unexpected feathered tulle skirt. This dress was one the other WOW moment of the night. Her hair, make-up, and jewelry are impeccable. Channing Tatum is one lucky guy. Flawless.

1-rs_634x1024-140302170247-634-jenna-dewan-oscars-030214-001

HONORABLE MENTIONS

1-ATG1-001

Camilla Alves in Gabriela Cadena, Maria Menounos in Johanna Johnson, and Laura Dern in Alberta Ferretti.

**Disclaimer: Since it’s obvious I wasn’t at this year’s ceremony snapping high res photos, all picture sources are here, where you’ll need to drive through the slideshow to find it – except Jenna Dewan- Tatum sourced here. Honorable mentions are linked just below the collage.

Stay in Touch: Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin‘

28Feb2014

Birchbox February | Happy Anniversary

Posted in Beauty by C.

1-for atg-003

Happy Birchbox Anniversary to me!

It’s been one year since I started experimenting with the latest and greatest in beauty and lifestyle products (then started blogging about them!). It’s been quite a ride and I have to admit, while it’s been a hit or miss experience when it comes to the products themselves, I still love the monthly surprises in my mailbox. Birchbox has introduced me to some pretty amazing products that use I regularly, while also teaching me that just because something is considered “high-end” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s any better than the stuff you can get at your local drugstore for half the cost.

(Shhh!) Between you and me, I’m considering the idea of exploring another monthly box service. Not that I’m dissatisfied with Birchbox, because I’m not, but given how the market is now flooding with new options and new approaches toward discovering beauty products, it might be time to try something different. I’ll dedicate a well-researched post in the near future to share my findings with a succinct listing of what’s out there, along with the pros and cons of each, where I’ll then announce my final decision.

Until then…here’s how February shaped up!

Product reviews are from left to right.

Agave Healing Oil Treatment | Whenever a product uses the words “agave” and “healing” in the same sentence somehow I instantly feel like I’m doing something completely natural and completely right for myself. Perhaps I’ve been brainwashed by the marketing industry to “trust” a product more. I was admittedly excited about this hair oil. The hard part is that the sample wasn’t very generous, so I used the whole pack in one sitting and this may be a product where you see better results the more you use it. What I loved about this treatment was the sweet fragrance along with the smooth texture of the oil. I can’t say with conviction that this did anything other than make detangling my hair much easier, which is a huge compliment for my kinkier hair texture. And as I write this, my hair has a nice bounce to it (then again that could just be because it’s totally clean at moment). However, at $24 full-sized, I’m can’t say I’m convinced to experiment with this product any further.

Overall: I’m indifferent.

Smashbox Cosmetics Full Exposure Mascara | I officially became a mascara snob last fall when a friend recommended Benefit’s They’re Real Mascara to me when I was on the prowl for a new go-to mascara. Since then, my search for the perfect mascara was O.V.E.R. While anything with the name Smashbox associated with it on the beauty front is no joke – I was skeptical if this could top the instant “wow” impression that They’re Real did and still does. And I was right. While this paraben-free formula isn’t a terrible mascara by any means, I was instantly turned off by the brush which was so thick that it always left a total mess on my eyelids no matter how delicately I tried to apply it. The good news is that this isn’t a problem when you use an eyeliner, otherwise if you want simple mascara-only drama or to use it after you’ve already expertly applied eye shadow (sans liner), this was a disappointment. It always needed an extra eyelid clean-up after use. And even after applying several coats, I never quite got the volume that I do with Benefit’s mascara. Essentially, between the wand and the formula, this isn’t something I’d readily jump out and buy. I like control when applying mascara and didn’t feel like I had it here. I look forward to using the sample, but will stick with what’s working.

Overall: If you want the best mascara ever – Benefit’s They’re Real is your answer. I promise.

Smashbox Cosmetics Full Exposure Palette | Admittedly, I was bummed at how Smashbox chose to share their eye shadow palette sample by placing a not so generous amount of product on a card. I mean, come on! This is SMASHBOX COSMETICS – you guys can do better. If cost was an issue, I would’ve preferred less shades options and more product in a sample-sized pot so that I could really explore application with the colors. Okay, now that that’s out of the way…What was unique about this sample was that they chose to share the same shades in both a matte and shimmer finish. I experimented with the shimmer finish for the most part to build a more dramatic eye and had a pretty positive experience overall. I will say that it felt like the shimmer lasted longer than the actual color pigment in some of the shades, which is not ideal. I recently used my Birchbox points to score this full-sized eye shadow palette from Coastal Scents and I’m very happy with it. I might have more to say if Smashbox gave us more to work with, but since I’m not in the market for a new palette – it’s a pass.

Overall: Pass. Go for the Coastal Scents Palette if you’re looking for as many as 88 options! FYI – it’s cheaper on their website. I was pissed to see Birchbox charge $40.00 for something that’s selling for $25.00 on their site. Granted, Coastal Scents does charge for shipping and Birchbox ships for free – it may not be too much of a difference. Given that I used my points, it lessened the sting, but didn’t make me happy at all when I first caught this.

Ruby Wing Color Changing Nail Polish | As hypocritical as it may sound since I’m a huge believer in “All That Glitters” – my experience with this glittery nail polish is bittersweet. On the one hand, I love the idea of a little sparkle on my nails, but on the other – it’s always so annoying to work with glitter anything. My first attempt at using this nail polish was a total fail. Take one: I polished my toes in Sexy Silhouette (don’t you just love the names of nail polishes now-a-days) and got creative and used this gold glitter nail polish over it for every single nail. TOTAL DISASTER. I don’t blame the polish, just a moment of poor judgement on my end. Take two: I polished my nails a very subtle gold color and used this gold glitter nail polish as an accent on one nail. MUCH better. My thoughts on this polish, however, are dual. I love the look (when done right) but HATE that it takes FOREVER to remove glitter nail polish. On top of that, this formula takes a few applications to look right and at that point becomes so thick it’s complicated to work with. As for the “changing” color aspect, I did notice the bottle change to a more reddish color when doing my outside photo shoot for the picture above, otherwise I can’t say I noticed it changing color in the sun too much (maybe I need to stare at my nails more outdoors). Either way, this is rather gimmicky to me and not really necessary. I’ll enjoy the sample on occasion, but don’t have any plans to make a full-sized purchase. The sample would last me awhile anyway (ahem, Smashbox!) when I am looking to add a bit of bling on my nails. In between those times, there are other ways to enjoy some sparkle in my life.

Overall: Eh. It’s fun, but I would want to experiment with a different brand to find something easier to work with.

1-IMG_20140227_165135

{Sneak peek at “take two.”}

Camille Beckman Glycerine Hand Therapy | Holy awesome hand lotion! I feel like I’m always reviewing lotions in my Birchbox, but this one has to be, by far, the best yet. What I immediately noticed about Camille Beckman’s hand lotion in Morelia Monarch was its amazing texture – unbelievably smooth and creamy without a stitch of greasiness from the moment of application. You don’t have to wait a few minutes before any lingering residue absorbs into the skin as you might have to with many lotions on the market. I was also instantly struck by its subtle scent – notes of vanilla, amber, and green tea. Your hands feel incredibly moisturized and silky to the touch. At $15, it is an expense over what I’d normally grab just to keep in my pursue, but one that I’m willing to overlook in this case. Your hands are in for a treat.

Overall: Worth it…if you don’t mind the splurge.

anniversary!