Naturally Pampered

Posted in Beauty, DIY by C.

I’m a big fan of killing two birds with one stone. What I love about this particular D.I.Y. is combining two important passions of mine: fresh produce and flawless skin. Not too long ago, I stumbled across an article about how to make your own facial masks using natural ingredients. The best part when reading the simplicity of the lists, is that it contained items that I typically already have in stock in my kitchen. Thus came the “two birds.” I adored the concept that not only is it completely satisfying that I’m making my own facial masks, but what a great idea to do when you realize that avocado is ripening much faster than when you’ll actually get to around to eating it. With these simple homemade facial mask recipes – I’ll not only never throw out another wasted piece of fruit, my skin will appreciate being drenched in moisture, exfoliated, and refreshed through the undeniable blessings of being naturally pampered.

Hydrating Mask

Ingredients:

– Mash half a ripe avocado

– Add ½ cup plain yogurt

– Add ¼ cup honey

Directions: Dab on lightly (with a sea sponge).

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Strawberry Lemon Peel

Ingredients:

– 1 buff puff
– 6 wild strawberries
– 1 liter sparkling water
– 1 6 oz. serving of plain yogurt
– ¼ of a lemon

Directions: Stand in a sunny window for 30 seconds to warm the skin. Gently crush strawberries onto buff puff and, after testing on a small area of your arm, massage into the face for 30 seconds (microdermabrasion). Rinse liberally with sparkling water. Mix the yogurt and lemon juice and slap a thick layer onto face for five minutes (fruit acid peel). Rinse with warm tap water and apply a gentle moisturizer.

Lemon and Honey Blossom Glow

Ingredients:

– 2 tsp. lemon juice

– 2 tsp. honey

Directions: Steam face to open pores (or take a hot shower) and place mixture on skin for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, then cold water to close pores.

**please click images or links for sources.**

28Mar2013

Birchbox Review: March

Posted in Beauty, Explore, Fun by C.

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When I opened Birchbox #2, I was already in a great mood having spent the day touring the Walt Disney Concert Hall downtown. I had received it earlier that morning, but wanted to wait until later that day to build the anticipation so I’d have something to look forward to (I was like a kid on Christmas morning!). To my delight, these 6 goodies were inside…

1. Stella Cadente Miss Me Discrete? Eau de Toilette // I was pleasantly surprised by this french fragrance. It’s very subtle with floral undertones that give off a light powdery smell. I found myself reaching for it frequently because it’s so appropriate for Spring and I loved spending my days lightly spritzed by this whimsical and romantically inspired fragrance. Aside from it being pretty pricey, this isn’t a scent that I think carries beyond this season – so while I plan to enjoy the sample, I likely won’t purchase the full sized bottle.

2. Twistband Headband // Admittedly, it took me a minute to warm to this item. I knew it was a headband, but wondered why it was tied in a huge knot at the nape that looked kind of cheap to me. I suppose I’m used to thin headbands forming an infinity circle that makes it look well-made. Once I got past the knot and read up on why these were so special, I gave it a try. I loved it! I loved the pop of color it gave my look when I wore it, but most of all, I loved that it stayed in place and didn’t leave a huge crease in my hairline – complaint #1 when wearing skinny headbands! I’m on the fence about purchasing more in large part because of the cost. The sample band I got is fun enough to use without moving forward.

3. Benefit Benetint // In theory, I’m a fan of what this product was designed to do, provide a lasting natural tint to lips and cheeks. Unfortunately, because of my more caramel complexion this didn’t show up extremely well on my skin when I first used it. However, when I applied a few coats it did stand out more, but the tint didn’t seem as long-lasting as promoted. My thinking is that this would be perfect for more pale to olive skin tones.

4. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant // Good thing I read what this stuff was for because I thought it was a simple moisturizer suitable enough for use after washing my face. Turns out, the greasy, amber colored goo that came out of the packet with an “interesting smell” is more of a salve used for intense moisture of chapped lips, cuticles, or rough heels and sunburned skin. I did find this product to be awesome on my feet before bed and when I wanted some moisture on my lips, but this isn’t something I’d ever purchase. The greasy nature and smell don’t help at all. Some Vaseline and/or cocoa butter would do the trick – and not be so smelly.

5. Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream – The best part about this organic shaving cream is hands down the intense blueberry scent and soft skin post shower. I didn’t feel the need to have to put lotion on right away as I normally do when I shave my legs. The one thing I couldn’t get over was that this product doesn’t lather. I’m used to that thick foam that develops when using my much cheaper (and still pleasantly scented) Skintimate shaving cream, and I realized that I like shaving my legs with that kind of texture. Even though I loved the scent, the natural ingredients used, and how moisturized my skin was after using Whish – I would never spend more than $5.00 on a can of shaving cream. This stuff is over-priced.

6. Madewell for Birchbox Nail Emery Board – What can I say? It’s a nail file. Since I have a few of these already, it’s still unopened and unused at writing time. I plan to add this to my make-up bag in my purse for emergencies. I do like the cute floral design and appreciate the extra bonus in this month’s box – but there really isn’t much more to say than…it’s a nail file 🙂

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// Overall //

While some of the products are inherently great – cost is a huge factor for why I wouldn’t purchase anything full-size from the Birchbox Shop this time around. If I was in the mood to splurge, it would be for the Stella Cadente fragrance. I really liked the headbands, but there must be an equal alternative at a beauty supply store for half the cost. Don’t think of me as an unhappy Birchbox customer – part of the fun is simply in the experimentation and trying something new at low risk. Keep em coming, Birchbox. Until April, stay beautiful.

Please do share your Birchbox stories with me in the comments section below – it’s infectious to hear them!

20Mar2013

|| What I’m Lovin’ Right Now ||

Posted in Beauty, Fashion, Fun, Inspiration by C.

Happy 1st day of Spring! Unfortunately, my lattes are hot rather than iced lately, and I’m still grabbing leggings if I wear a dress. Needless to say, the weather (as usual) continues to be fickle and Spring seems to be making a fashionably late appearance. Foggy and chilly filled mornings stretch throughout the day and I’m quite bummed about it. I’m so looking forward to this season, and while my allergies aren’t, I have my vision set and I’m ready for the change. At the very least, I realize I should cherish these days because 4 short months from now, I’m certain I’ll be complaining to you about about the 95 degree L.A. sauna that I can’t escape and my electricity bill because of it. As with most things in life, I’ll just have to sit and wait patiently for the universe to let the changing of times happen as it should. In the meantime, I choose to focus on what’s making me happy.

here’s what i’m lovin’ right now

|| New motto. ||

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|| Inside Chanel: The Jacket // A short documentary on the creation of the legendary Chanel Jacket in 1954 by Coco Chanel, age 71. ||

|| L.A. Love ||

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|| 30 Things Turning 30 This Year // Read more here. ||

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|| How I plan to celebrate spring // Essie nail polish color chart // Click to enlarge ||

15Mar2013

Highlights

Posted in Beauty, Breakfast, Explore, Fashion, Food, Fun, Shoes, Treats by C.

This week went by incredibly fast for me, but turned out to be a good one. I’m loving the extra sunlight after work hours motivating me in ways that fall and winter never seem to. Really great things happened in really small ways as I look back over the last week. My 2nd Birchbox made an appearance, I learned my lesson when I ran out of my favorite cleanser and my skin was NOT happy about it, the new gym in my building opened up, and I treated myself to my first pair of spring inspired wedges.

I have a lot on my plate this weekend. A trip to the museum is on the agenda (since last weekend we ended up at the Walt Disney Concert Hall instead), a stop at my favorite grilled cheese place is a must, as well as spending some time roaming the farmer’s market to kill two birds with one stone – enjoying the 80 degree weather while stocking up on goodies for the week. Have an amazing weekend! It’s going to be gorgeous here!

My week’s highlights…

EXPLORE| grand park

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I sat in the new(ish) Grand Park in downtown L.A. with my boyfriend watching the massive water fountain and sipping an iced tea on a Saturday afternoon and it was simply magical. I plan to spend more time here at some point in the coming months enjoying all the free concerts and programming offered.

BEAUTY| birchbox

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Boy, was I glad to see this hand delivered to my door last Saturday morning. So far, I’m very happy with this month’s samples. Review post to come later this month!

BREAKFAST| strawberries

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I bought a huge vat of sweet strawberries and have been happily enjoying them for breakfast (and when I need a frozen yogurt fix) this week, but it’s reminding me to always keep dental floss in my purse.

BEAUTY| murad

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I ran out of my favorite cleanser and didn’t immediately replace it, instead using some left over product I had on hand. Let’s just say my skin was not very happy about it and rebelled pretty quickly. Once that became utterly clear, I ordered it online and painstakingly waited a week for its arrival because I save so much more money (gotta love Amazon). Now, all is well in the world.

SHOES| audrey brooke teagan

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I stumbled on these Audrey Brooke Teagan Wedge Pumps a few weeks back and instantly added them to my Pinterest gotta have board. Patience paid off when I received a great coupon and free shipping earlier this week. They’re on their way!

6Mar2013

|| What I’m Lovin’ Right Now ||

Posted in Beauty, Books, Explore, Fashion, Food, Fun, Handbags, Inspiration, Travel, Treats by C.

I’ve secretly always wanted to just pick-up and move to Europe for at least a year (it’s a toss-up between Italy or France). I would channel Elizabeth Gilbert in Eat, Pray, Love (minus the messy divorce) completely immersing myself in a new culture. I’d learn French or Italian, sit and write (or blog!) in cafes, walk to museums, sip cappuccinos, develop a hardcore appreciation for fine wine with lunch and dinner, have conversations with strangers, and eat croissants with a side of pasta all day long (not gaining a pound, of course). Needless to say, I was elated to read Vanessa Larson’s inspiring story of a gal who stopped talking the talk and did it. This isn’t a dream that I’ve given up on completely. I’m still pretty young, but find that as I get older, it feels like time is slipping away and I’ll be twenty years older looking back at a youth that I wish I’d taken better advantage of. It’s my personal biggest fear and would be my lifelong regret. I cannot think of anything more enchanting than following your dreams, and when seeing that magic happen for someone else, it re-enlivens you to pursue your own.

here’s what i’m lovin’ right now

|| …Following your dreams // Read Vanessa Larson’s story here. ||

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|| Two Penny Blue // Cambridge Blazer in navy. ||

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|| Words. ||

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|| 10 Minutes to happy hour // Sparkling White Peach Sangria // Recipe here. ||

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|| Chic storage // Sunglasses case to store cords and cables in your bag. Genius. ||

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|| See By Chloé // My next perfume splurge. // Those magazine scented pages do work. ||

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|| Blueberry Dessert Pizza // Recipe here. ||

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|| Birchbox Tutorials // How To: Curl Your Hair With A Flatiron. ||

1Mar2013

Highlights

Posted in Beauty, Film, Food, Fun, Lunch, Treats by C.

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Welcome to March and the changing of times! I’m sure many of us will miss boots, scarves, and how you can get away with a lack of attention to incessantly shaving your legs; but I’m very much looking forward to the sunshine. Longer days and warmer weather are a-coming! Even better and what I’m most excited about, March begins the climax toward better films coming out in the market, of which I’m looking forward to partaking in over the weekend when I go see Nicole Kidman’s new thriller, Stoker.

Have a wonderful weekend! My week’s highlights…

FILM| the impossible

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A leisurely Saturday afternoon spent with my boyfriend at the Sundance Sunset Theater to see one of the last remaining Best Picture Oscar nominations on our list before the big night, The Impossible. While the film definitely hit some clichés in storytelling and technique, it was a moving film and quite unbelievable that this family of 5 survived one of the greatest natural disasters of our time.

EVENT| oscar night

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A friend of mine threw an Oscar party this year, and I have to say that besides the awesome appetizers she had on hand, this fancy Oscar ballot to play along was the perfect touch.

SIP| iced mocha

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I switched things up on an ordinary Wednesday and added a little chocolate to my A.M. latte. Pretty amazing how things perked up!

BEAUTY| birchbox

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Thanks to Birchbox, I’ve been experimenting with green nail polish for the first time!

EAT| veggies

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Sometimes keeping it simple is tastiest. I devoured a plate of veggies for lunch and couldn’t have been happier. Granted, the potatoes were scalloped, but it still counts!

WORDS| smiling

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This is a quote I saw awhile back that I instantly wrote down on a post-it and placed on my desk. I found myself looking at it all week.

28Feb2013

Birchbox Review: February

Posted in Beauty, Explore, Fun by C.

February brought many smiles, but one that stands out was the day that I got my first Birchbox. Several of my girlfriends had been raving about theirs for months, posting pictures of their beloved treasures on Facebook, completely giddy. It was infectious. I almost passed on the craze thinking that it might be a total waste of money, that I would just start collecting samples of things that I would never use and create unnecessary clutter in my bathroom cabinets. After all, I had my go-to products that I was already happy with through years of trial and error.

Until one fateful January day when I thought about it from the perspective of treating myself to a little monthly surprise and indulge that side of me that likes to be in the know about any and everything! I decided to use this opportunity to experiment with colors and products that I would otherwise overlook due to the sheer volume of what’s on the beauty market and commit to really try the products (or as I ended up later doing, swap things out with other Birchbox ladies if it was something I knew I wouldn’t use).

Three weeks later, I got an invitation. Two weeks after that, my customized Birchbox was in my hands!

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{1}. Color Club Nail Polish in Wild Cactus: This is why Birchbox is cool! I probably would’ve never tried green nail polish without the low risk of getting a decent sized sample to experiment with first. I’ve gotten lots of compliments on my now festive toes.

{2}. Ghirardelli Chocolate: A small piece of chocolate inspired by Valentine’s Day was this month’s treat. I’m sure most of us are very familiar with Ghirardelli Chocolate and it would’ve been a bit nicer to get something more off-beat or original.

{3}. Lancôme Le Base Pro Makeup Primer: Admittedly, this was the product that I didn’t use much before writing this post. I did use a bit of it and liked the texture and non-greasy feel as a primer before foundation use, but wouldn’t purchase this full-sized. My foundation already has a great all-day wear and doesn’t need this expensive extra boost.

{4}. Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls: I’m African-American and therefore, have a very distinct hair texture making me extremely picky about what I put in my hair. 🙂 Since I knew this was likely something I wouldn’t use, I swapped with a fellow Birchbox friend for a perfume she said she would never use. Win, win!

{5}. Vasanti Brighten Up! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator: This was the first product I saw that I was super excited to try. (I’m very anal about good skin care!) Of course, this is a product that is likely more telling the more you use it. I’ve used it a handful of times and find it be very gentle while exfoliating my skin; though if I’m completely honest, I’m happier with the tried and true (and much less expensive) St. Ives Apricot Scrub. I plan on finishing out the sample, but doubt a full-sized purchase will come of it

{6}. Nicole by Nicole Richie: The perfume I took on from a friend to try out instead of the Pillow Soft Curls was Nicole Richie’s fragrance. At first spritz it seemed very strong, but once it settled into my skin it was just okay. To its credit, it is a lasting scent. I can still smell it on me as I type this sentence 6 hours after I put it on. Again, I’ll finish out the sample, but won’t be adding it to my fragrance collection.

OVERALL

Not a bad first Birchbox! It was great fun to play with the products and at $10/month, I think I got my money’s worth. Unfortunately, there isn’t anything in this month’s selections that I would consider buying in the full-sized version. The most exciting aspect was trying out a new nail polish color that I’ve gotten tons of compliments on! Until March…stay tuned and stay beautiful.

If you’re a Birchbox user, I’d love to hear about your February goodies! Please feel free to leave me a comment below…

27Feb2013

|| What I’m Lovin’ Right Now ||

Posted in Accessories, Beauty, Explore, Fashion, Food, Fun, Handbags, Inspiration, Shoes, Travel, Treats by C.

Longer days and warmer weather are just around the corner! I can’t believe February has come and (almost) gone so quickly. Sadly, awards season is over. The Superbowl has come and gone. And Valentine’s Day now a memory. Despite all the events that the end of one calendar year so excitingly flows into the beginning of another, I’m excited for the changing of times. Spring brings sunlight until 8:00pm, blooming flowers, and fruit that subtly becomes all the sweeter as we make our way toward summer. Flip flops, dresses without leggings, iced lattes, and the need to be at the beach or outside as much as possible become the standard in my life. I can’t think of anything more exciting to look forward to.

here’s what i’m lovin’ right now

{Officially obsessed with Wendy’s Lookbook // my newest fashion blog addiction. She nails it every. single. time.}

{The best laugh I’ve had all week = a funny satire of our growing hipster culture.}

{High standards.}

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{Jonathan Adler Universal Smartphone Dock.}

{Like. Seriously.}

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{Giuseppe Zanotti Suede Rhinestone Thong Sandals…in either color.}

{Where I want to be right now.}

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{Strawberry & chocolate nachos // recipe here.} 0afc9f89c157bbdd60941a8934219043

26Feb2013

2013 Academy Awards: Fashion Hits and Misses

Posted in Accessories, Beauty, Documentary, Fashion, Film, Handbags, Independent Cinema, Shoes by C.

What a picture perfect day in L.A. this past Oscar Sunday! Clear skies and not too chilly temperatures set the tone for Hollywood’s biggest night. I spent the evening with a few gal pals over appetizers, Italian sodas, and lots of laughs; ready to see if my award predictions rang true and to stare enviously at all things fashion. I have to say that overall, I was pretty underwhelmed by the red carpet this past Oscar night. Sure, there were some stunning dresses, but the hair and makeup would ruin the look; or the accessories were great, but the dress just didn’t grab me.

My biggest complaint was a lot of blush colored gowns set against pale skin tones that oftentimes washed a starlet out on-camera. I’m sure many of these dresses looked gorgeous in person, but our ladies (and their expensive Stylists) need to consider how a look will come off on-camera. A billion people are watching from their living rooms, only a few lucky people see it in person.

As glamorous as it seems (and likely is), it can’t be easy getting ready to face the world on Oscar Sunday. The fashion has become as pivotal to the night as the actual awards presentation and ALL eyes are on YOU. I can’t imagine the amount of pressure it takes to get it right and even if you didn’t in my opinion, I respect the courage it must take to face the world knowing that everyone is watching your every move and you showed up in something that you are proud of, regardless of what others think.

Alas, here are my top 5 Oscar Night fashion hits and misses. See you on the red carpet next year!

The Hits

AMY ADAMS| Oscar de la Renta

The color is a daring choice, it’s almost (just almost) a touch too light for her skin tone, but she pulls it off. The hair, the jewels, the makeup are all flawless.

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JENNIFER ANISTON| Valentino

Love the color, love the cut, love that she didn’t rock a necklace with this show-stopping ensemble. I do wish Jen would get a bit more creative with her hair. It’s typically the same thing over and over, but it works. She nailed it.

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JESSICA CHASTAIN| Armani Prive

A gorgeous gown that fits her so perfectly. The classic Veronica Lake hairstyle. A bold lip and a great smile. She looks like a walking Oscar statue. This look is timeless. She’s stunning!

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CHARLIZE THERON| Dior Couture

Long hair, short hair – this beauty can do no wrong and was a breath of fresh air in this white dress by Dior. I loved that she kept her accessories minimal and let that gorgeous face, body, and gown speak for themselves. Sexy sophistication at its best.

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NAOMI WATTS| Armani Prive

Naomi Watts was an instant standout on the red carpet in this silver shimmery number by Armani Prive. I love the cut-out on the upper portion of the gown, her hair and not too fussy, but just right makeup, made her look beyond elegant and a bit more fashion forward than anyone else. Best dressed of the night!

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This Misses

ANNE HATHAWAY| Prada

Rumor had it that Anne was expected to accept her first Oscar in Valentino…until she showed up on the red carpet in this blush Prada number at the last-minute. Unfortunately, the cut of the halter shaped bust and Anne’s “excitement” of the night got one distracting “wardrobe malfunction” that ruined an otherwise elegant, but safe, look. By far, she had on my favorite set of jewels in that striking necklace.

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NICOLE KIDMAN| L’Wren Scott

Perhaps this was one of those gowns that looked better in person, but Nicole Kidman missed the mark with this ensemble. The sequined gown sported an ombre feel on the top, into that random Batman-looking patch at the waist, to an even more random set of gold curls on the bottom. The dress is too busy. I adore Nicole Kidman, she’s hands down one of the finest actresses out there, but this didn’t do it for me at all and I heard through the grapevine her husband picked this dress!?! Hmm…

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KRISTEN STEWART| Reem Acra

The dress isn’t exactly horrible and I know that K-Stew was on crutches most of the night (poor thing!), but I couldn’t help but wonder if she knew she was coming to the Academy Awards, right? Her hair and makeup are way too casual; so casual, in fact, it looked like she didn’t even take the time to wash her hair…or run a comb through it for that matter. I realize red carpets and her don’t mix, and she’s completely uncomfortable in front of photographers, but this screams no effort outside of an expensive dress that deserved to be taken more seriously and styled to the nines.

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ZOE SALDANA| Alex Mabille Couture

Zoe Saldana is such a beautiful woman, but this dress doesn’t do her any justice. Between the detailed bodice, the crooked bow on the hip, the belt, and the multi-colored flowing hem, it’s just too much. I suspect I would have loved this dress without any of the adornments on the upper half, simply leading down to the gown’s big color reveal at the bottom. I also wished her make-up was a bit brighter overall. It’s too dark and doesn’t accentuate her features. A bold lip would’ve done wonders.

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RENEE ZELLWEGER| Carolina Herrera

I don’t quite understand what happened here. Carolina Herrera is a high-end designer, but this dress looks so uninspired to me. Renee’s lack of attention to impeccable hair and makeup, gave off such an un-glamorous, blah feeling when she turned up in front of the cameras. The Oscars are THE night to show off and Renee didn’t. Not in the least.

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**Disclaimer: Since it’s obvious I wasn’t at this year’s ceremonies snapping high res photos, all pictures are courtesy of Yahoo.com! Photo sources are noted below:

Amy Adams

Jennifer Aniston

Jessica Chastain

Charlize Theron

Naomi Watts

Anne Hathaway

Nicole Kidman

Zoe Saldana

Kristen Stewart

Renee Zellweger

22Feb2013

Highlights

Posted in Beauty, Breakfast, Food, Fun by C.

Much like the weather this week in L.A., it’s been a personal roller coaster for me full of ups and downs. Happy news, unexpected surprises, and even expected surprises (my first Birchbox made its appearance this week!) managed to brighten some of those less sunny moments.

Looking forward to a yoga class and Oscar Sunday this weekend, where I’ll be hanging out and watching the broadcast with the girls this year taking copious notes on best dressed. Have a beautiful weekend. Here are this weeks highlights:

VALENTINE’S DAY| roses

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{Flowers from my Valentine! xx}

FURNITURE| desk chair

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{My new accent/desk chair that goes oh so perfectly with my new parson’s desk! xx}

EAT| homemade strawberry pancakes

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{I’ve been on a serious strawberry kick lately, from frozen yogurt to putting them in pancake mix and then on top of the pancakes for added effect – I love strawberries. I can’t wait until they come back in season officially, but have been surprised at how sweet they are given it’s only February.}

BEAUTY| birchbox

{My first Birchbox arrived yesterday! It made me super giddy to see what was inside and I cannot wait to try out the new goodies. Look for an upcoming blog post on my first Birchbox, where I’ll review the products and share my likes and dislikes with you. I’ll let you know if this Birchbox craze is worth the hype. Stay tuned and stay beautiful.}