Quoteworthy: Kate Spade 1962-2018

"In order to lead a fascinating life, one brimming with art, music, intrigue and romance, you must surround yourself with precisely those things." 
-Kate Spade














Now Playing: "Sweet Like Brandy" by Kwamie Liv

2017 Makeup No Buy: The Final Update

If you were following along with my 2017 makeup no buy, I apologize for leaving you hanging. About midway through the year, I went through a few personal challenges and makeup simply wasn't even on my radar. I purchased a few selective items during a sale here and there but overall, I added very little new product to my collection. I purged quite a bit as well. Overall, I was extremely pleased with my results. If I were grading my performance, I would say that I earned a solid B+. I am going to continue my no-buy into the new year with the same "rules" of only purchasing for special occasions, major sales or rare launches. My focus has completely shifted in recent months and I no longer have the desire to buy everything that catches my eye. I  simply don't need it. While my love and appreciation for beauty will always remain, there comes a time when you must take an inventory of your lifestyle and priorities and realize what you need is more important than what you want. I would rather put my money toward savings, books and travel. Collect moments, not things.



Products Featured Above:

L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

Tarte Tartelette Toasted Eyeshadow Palette

Etude House Universe Palette in Gold

ABH Subculture Palette

Urban Decay Eyeliner in Alkaline

MAC Holiday Lipstick

Too Faced Clover Eyeshadow Palette

Charlotte Tilbury Instant Eyeshadow Palette













Now Playing: "Praise You" by Jon Kenzie (Fatboy Slim Cover)

Go Deep: Leonard Cohen, 1934-2016

"You Want It Darker"

Fall Feels: 10 Easy DIYs to Try This Halloween

1. Fright Cubes

It doesn't get much easier than this chilling concoction. Add a few creepy crawlers into your ice cube trays to give your drinks a spooky touch. You could opt to add food coloring but I think the black & white contrast packs a solid punch to your punch.

2. The Pampered Skeleton

I love the idea of putting a skeleton in an unexpected place like a bathtub or vanity chair. A few glamorous accessories like costume jewelry and a leopard sleeping mask, and this skeletal lady is looking to die for.

3. Decoupaged Pumpkins

This year I was most eager to decoupage some pumpkins. I had never done it before and I'm officially hooked. I used napkins in a print from one of my favorite brands (MacKenzie-Childs) to create my own affordable version of their iconic pumpkins. Next up, I plan to use some old thrift store copies of horror books to recreate the look pictured above.

4. & Fabric Pumpkins, too!

Pumpkin everything! I love how cozy & cute these pumpkin are! Velvet, cable knit and flannels are some of my favorite fabrics to work with. You could use old shirts, thrift some or buy the material at the craft store. These beautiful decorations are suitable for use from September through Thanksgiving, so they're definitely worth the DIY.

5. Rustic Wreaths

Understated elegance abounds in this easy DIY. A few bats or crows attached to a simple wicker wreath and you've got yourself a spooktacular looking decoration. Tip: Add a few extra black feathers to the wings to give an enhanced look to your project.

6. Skull & Booze

Inspired by the pricey Pottery Barn glasses pictured above, this DIY might take a bit of hunting for its contents but it's well worth the effort. You will need:

• Wine Glasses with a Stem
• Miniature Skeleton Figurines
• Metallic Paint
• Hot Glue Gun

You could also attempt to build the glassware without a stem like the original but I think it would be more challenging to create a base that has stability. 

7. Rocky Horror

This is a fun one for the kids! When I was little, I loved to go on nature walks and hunt for rocks. This adorable "pet rock" ghost family is too cute for words. If you have paint, sharpies or even nail polish on hand, this charming little project is practically free. Very cute to display on your desk or bookshelf.

8. Pillow Talk

If you weren't cursed with terrible cursive, show off your penchant for penmanship with this precious pillow! On a linen pillow, take fabric marker and use your favorite Halloween movie quote, lyric or saying. If freehand isn't your idea of a good time, you could also use a stencil or take your project to a screen printer.

9. 'Wick'-edly Wonderful Candles

A few cheapy dollar store candles, paint and/or sharpie is all you need for these festive votives. I particularly love the Oct. 31st dated variation. If you want to take things up a notch, add washi tape or other decorative touches. The options are endless.

10. Bewitching Baked Goods

I'll be putting together these very easy-to-create goodies for a costume party this weekend. Witchy hats & brooms?! Perfect for Halloween! A few simple ingredients combined and your basic cookies and chocolates are easily transformed into a magical treat!














Now Playing: "My Body's a Zombie For You" by Dead Man's Bones

Get Lit: A Few of My Favorite Coffee Table Books

Please excuse the horrible lack of feng shui happening within this collage. Its asymmetry is most disappointing.

I collect a lot of things. A minimalist I am not. And there are few things in life that I love more than books. Some women dream of having a jewelry box full of diamonds or a closet stocked with designer shoes but I lust after a home library. I tend to gravitate toward non-fiction. I enjoy memoirs, satire/humor, essays and anything on the occult. But my biggest love is for coffee table books. Not only are they fascinating to read and visually admire but they're also one of my favorite things to decorate with. Nothing makes a room look more put together than a well-placed book. I appreciate a wide variety of subject matter: fashion, art, photography, beauty, architecture, music, design... The list is endless.

I mostly get my books used from various online retailers (Amazon, ebay, etc...) but am always scouring thrift stores as well. To check out my virtual bookshelves featuring thousands of my favorite titles, you can visit my Pinterest. In the mean time, I thought I'd share just a few of my favorites:

• Well-Read Women: Portraits of Fiction's Most-Beloved Heroines by Samantha Hahn.             If you're a fan of quotes and watercolor illustrations, you'll appreciate this book. It's a pretty book to flip through and especially nice as a gift for the woman in your life who loves literature.
• Louis Vuitton: Art, Fashion and Architecture                                                                            When this book was originally published several years ago, it was at the top of my Christmas list. For fans of architectural store design, this one is for you. Lovers of Takashi Murakami's iconic collaboration with Louis Vuitton will cherish having this book displayed in their homes. 
• Habitually Chic: Creativity at Work by Heather Clawson.                                                           If you follow the sensational style blog Habitually Chic, you must add this fabulous book to your collection. For those who have a passion for making a living out of doing what they love, you will take away much inspiration. Creatives will particularly be receptive to its content. Over the years, I've proudly displayed this book at the office, on my desk at home and anywhere that needs a touch of brightness. 
• Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel by Lisa Vreeland.                                                           If you grew up reading fashion magazines like I did, you will be familiar with Diana Vreeland's iconic career at Harper's Bazaar. For the most part, Vreeland was before my time (and her own for that matter) but this book provides a stellar glimpse into the fashion publishing world's past. This is mostly a visual photography book showcasing Vreeland's extraordinary contributions to the industry. 
• Face Paint: The Story of Makeup by Lisa Eldridge.                                                                     Surprisingly enough, before this book was published, there really wasn't anything on the market quite like it. It's hard to believe that no one had put together a book on the history of makeup. That might sound frivolous but the cosmetics industry is massively profitable and has a strong following. It's no surprise how popular this book has become. I adore the artistry and femininity behind makeup so of course I appreciate every page of this very well put together book. I'm also a major fan of Lisa Eldridge's work as well as her YouTube channel. If you're a beauty lover, this is a must-have. 
• Advanced Style by Ari Seth Cohen.                                                                                                 Here we have another incredible book that was spawned via a wonderful blog. This is a fantastic display of impeccable style at all ages. Our society tends to favor youth and beauty over the wisdom and elegance that comes with time but this book defies that stereotype. One of my all-time favorite style blogs brought to life in book form.
• Kate Spade New York: Things We Love - Twenty Years of Inspiration, Intriguing Bits and Other Curiosities                                                                                                                               I love Kate Spade's whimsical designs and affordable price points. For fans of the brand, this is a terrific book to add to your collection. It features a delightful selection of style inspiration that girlie girls of all ages can appreciate.
• Vogue Living: Houses, Gardens, People by Hamish Bowles.                                                       This was one of the first coffee table books I ever bought. When it comes to this sort of genre, no one does it better than Vogue. I have since purchased a number of books from the magazine and they're all worthy of the cost. As a particular lover of the subject matter, this is one of my favorites.
• Mark Ryden: The Tree Show by Holly Meyers & Mark Ryden.                                                   Mark Ryden is one of my favorite contemporary artists whose work is so unique and magical. Some of my favorite pieces are featured in this collection. If you're a fan of this style of art, I highly recommend owning this book. If I ever strike it rich, Mark Ryden would be the first artist I would contact to commission a painting for me. I hope to add another book by him into my collection in the near future. 

Now Playing: "Call" by Francesco Yates

Flick Pick: There Is a New World Somewhere

When I was in upstate New York last month, I went to a small theater to see a JFK Jr. documentary (loved him). During the previews, there was the trailer for this film. I immediately sent myself a text so I wouldn't forget the title. It's a good thing that I did because it might have been impossible to come across this film again. And nothing drives me crazier than not being able to source a song or movie that is escaping my memory.



I haven't seen it just yet but the script and cinematography does look promising. I enjoy deeper movies that are centered around travel & romance so I have a feeling I might like this one.

To read more about There Is a New World Somewhere or to find out if it is showing in an area near you, click here.


UPDATE: I'd rate this movie a 7/10. Kept my interest. I watched on Amazon Video since my iTunes rental didn't play.

SEMI-SPOILER: As a hopeless romantic, I hope the director, Li Lu, pulls a Linklater and films a sequel to this with the same characters 9-10 years from now. There Is a New World Somewhere shared similar elements with Before Sunrise. And any movie that can even closely be compared to my favorite of all time is worthy of a recommendation.







Now Playing: "The Trip" by Still Corners

Pinterest Lately: Summer 2016

Colmar, France. A small town with big charm. The architecture is so dreamy. 

Cotton grass fields. 

Some day I am going to have a gambrel style house with shingles. Christie Brinkley's place in the Hamptons is for sale-- only $30 million. 

My Mom had this vintage book about the Saints when I was little. Loved it. Our copy vanished so I found one in good condition on ebay. 

Prosecco with cotton candy clouds. A version of my personality in drink form.

Sometimes I wish I had a menagerie of shih tzus. Love them so much. 

Past lives. The original Jim + Pam. 

Fall DIYs. 

Truth. 

Now Playing: "Devil Like Me" by Rainbow Kitten Surprise

Quoteworthy

"You have to systematically create confusion, it sets creativity free. Everything that is contradictory creates life." 
-Salvador Dalí 1904-1989











Now Playing: "Stay Late" by Elektrik People

Recent Beauty Favorites, Winter/Spring 2016

 It has been quite a while since I shared some of my favorite beauty products. After working in cosmetic sales and artistry for the past few years, I have skillfully navigated the land of luxury makeup and skincare. Through trial and error, I have discovered what's worth the splurge and what can be better substituted at your local drugstore. Here are a few of the products that I have been recently loving:

• Lancome My Parisian Pastels Shimmer Cube: An adorably packaged product with a unique design. Can be used as highlighter, blush, eyeshadow or finishing powder.
• OPI Hello Kitty and New Orleans Collections: My favorite brand of polish delivers once again with a wide range of beautiful colors including Kitty White (a shimmering white with a silvery finish), Charmmy & Sugar (a standout shade of metallic pale pink with sparkles), She's A Bad Muffuletta! (a strawberry red with pink undertones), Rich Girls & Po-Boys (a beautiful, boyish shade of blue that's somehow still very feminine).
• Clarins Lip Oil (01 Honey), Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm, & Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector (07 Toffee Pink Shimmer): I've been fixated with keeping my lips hydrated with oil, balm and a moisturizing product. The newest shade from the Instant Light collection is my favorite out of all of them- the most beautifully natural shade of pink.
• YSL Gypsy Opale Face Palette: The dynamite packaging is what sold me but the product itself keeps me reaching for more. A wonderful color correcting finishing powder. 
• Shiseido Future Solution Night Cream: A steep price tag but worth every penny. The Future Solution range of skincare products has been my guilty pleasure for several years. It truly keeps fine lines in-check and hydrates beyond belief.
• Bioderma Cleansing Water: Many brands are attempting to knock off this cult-favorite product (Simple, Garnier, etc...) that was once only available for purchase in Europe but thanks to sites like Beautylish, Bioderma is accessible to the masses and at a fantastic price. Nothing beats the original! Perfect for dry, sensitive skin. Takes makeup off and leaves the skin clean. 
• ColourPop Eyeshadows: This brand has been one of my favorite discoveries. I adore everything about their range- affordable, cutting edge, on-trend, fun and good quality. I love all of their products but every girl needs to own at least one of their eyeshadows.
• Tarte Amazonian Clay BB Tinted Moisturizer (Ivory): I don't like to wear heavy foundation and prefer light coverage on my face. This BB/tinted moisturizer hybrid is phenomenal at delivering just enough hydration and coverage to even out my complexion without masking my natural skin beneath. 
• Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer (Fair): I have tried plenty of high-end concealers but this drugstore find is still my favorite. I recently turned 30 but am just now starting to need coverage under the eyes. This concealer has been a go-to. 
• Etude House Sheet Masks: A few times a year (when the Korean beauty site offers sales and free shipping), I place an order for my favorite Asian cosmetic items. These sheet masks are affordable and a wonderful addition to your skincare routine. 
• Estee Lauder Double Wear Eyeliner (Gold): My eyeliner collection is obscene. There are a lot of terrific pencil liners on the market but this formula and color from Estee Lauder has been my favorite.
• Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water: I thought this was a gimmick when I first purchased it. "Diamond water? Riiight." It turns out that this primer is everything. If you have dry skin that rejects foundation, this formula will agree with anything you place on top of it. It helps with the application of your makeup but more importantly, it truly prolongs its wear-time. If they ever discontinue this baby, I will be buying a lifetime supply.
• Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream: This is terrific for day or night and a must-have before prepping for concealer. 
• Lancome Miracle Cushion Compact Foundation (Alternate: L'Oreal True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation): My love for Asian-inspired skincare and beauty products has found its way into my foundation routine. When I need a bit more coverage than a BB cream or tinted moisturizer, I reach for these. They're still light-medium coverage and very comfortable on the skin. The downside? You don't get a lot of product for what you pay but the finish is gorgeous. 
• Too Faced Chocolate Bon Bons Eyeshadow Palette: Too Faced is one of my favorite brands- so feminine, fun and flirty. I have so many of their products and love of all of them. If Peggy Bundy ever designed an eyeshadow palette, it might look like this. 
• Clinique Cheek Pop Blush (Nude Pop): I'm not much of a Clinique girl but this blush's cutesy floral and acrylic packaging lured me in. The formula and shade is also incredible. 
• Chanel Nail Polish (683 Sunrise Trip): From the Spring 2016 LA Sunrise Collection, this shade looks nearly black in the bottle but on the nail, it's an original shade of royal purple with navy undertones. I'm still on the hunt for the perfect, bright, neutral-yet-wearable, neon purple (that's not asking too much is it?) but this shade will be fine until that polish is discovered invented.

Flick Pick: Feast Of Friends (The Doors Documentary)

For the past decade or so, I've really been drawn to Jim Morrison. While I've been a fan of The Doors for much longer, I find their personal lives to be very fascinating. Inside glimpses into this era aren't always easy to come by. I was delighted when I heard about the release of this groundbreaking documentary by way of Coast to Coast AM.

via The film's producers:

Feast Of Friends, filmed in 1968, was the first and only film produced about The Doors by The Doors. It offers a cinematic look at The Doors on the road during their summer ’68 tour. Whilst never truly completed, the film provides a stylistic approach in true sixties cinéma vérité style. Concert performances are intercut with fly-on-the-wall footage of the group in their natural habitat, sometimes playful, sensitive, chaotic and touching. Other than a few appearances in film festivals in 1968, an official release would never be seen until now. Completely restored from the original negative, as supervised by Jim Morrison, the film has been colour corrected and cleaned in high definition with the soundtrack totally remixed and remastered by long-time Doors’ collaborator Bruce Botnick.

You can purchase the film here.

Official 














Now Playing: "The End" by The Doors
*Obviously

Pinterest Lately (Fall 2014)

I've always had a soft spot for tufted furniture. When I get my own house, a blue sofa is a must. But lately, I've really been feeling the moss green hues for a library, den or sitting area.

Clogs. Ah. Memories. At my Catholic high school, because of our strict uniform policy, we weren't allowed to wear heels. Clogs were always the go-to loophole. Interesting to see them back in style again.

Not that this mystery plant is exclusive to the South or anything, but I snapped this shot in South Carolina. I believe my neighbors here in Pittsburgh even have some in their yard. I would love to have them as well someday. Anyone out there who can identify this fuzzy bit of fabulous?

Loving tennis style sweaters with a deep v-neck. This particular blogger had the sweater linked, so I was able to find all the details on it. The beauty of the internet.

Thanks to Harper's Bazaar via Pinterest, I discovered the recently launched nail polish brand Smith & Cult. I have my eye on a few of their bottles. Starting after the new year, I'm on a very tight allowance for introducing polishes into my collection but these little beauties might earn their way in.

With a face like that, what wouldn't work? But loving this soft look that adds an unexpected splash of yellow warmth.

I came across this brand on Urban Outfitter's web site. LOVE the name of the line along with their products! Aquarian Soul. Must have! I'm really into body oils but they're not very easy or affordable to come by. Will hopefully report back on this.

A simple touch. Rituals Candle via Barneys online. Again, I'm a sucker for branding, packaging, a good name. Yes, please.

This shot feels... familiar. Very much my type of vibe encompassed in a photograph.

This 1953 Alfa Romeo Bat. Incredible to think that after six decades, such a classic car still retains a feel for the future.

These quotation mark bookends. Could probably DIY for a cheaper alternative. If you know me at all, read my blog or follow me on Pinterest, then it should come as no surprise that I want this in my life. Love quotes. Love books. A marriage made in lit lovers' Heaven.

Enjoying this style of smooth, sparkly pant. I don't wear a lot of traditional heels, so I am having a hard time with the shoe pairings.

Such a classic look. Love my Levi jeans. This outfit reminds me of so many things I've worn over the years- all at various times of my life.

These vintage Balenciaga booties are phenomenal. Would love to own a pair like this!

Made me laugh! Reminds me of someone but I just can't think of who ;)

Need a couch like this in my home someday! How perfect would this be for a media room or other loungy type of space?!

This shot of Lily Aldridge channeling Jane Birkin is otherworldly. She's so naturally beautiful but with a bit of glam it makes her all the more fun to admire.

Fornasetti. Inspired by this Italian company's touch of style.

I've had my eye on this Anthropologie piece (Codify Pencil Holder). I finally allowed myself to go ahead and get it on Black Friday because it was of course on sale. Back-ordered through the end of March! The struggle is real! I plan to use it for my makeup brushes.

I created this little bit of truth last month. Whenever I liked a song I heard but didn't know its origins, I used to have to listen intently to the lyrics, then Google, only to hope that it was found. I Shazam all day long at work. Pointing my phone up in the air towards speakers is something I've grown accustomed to. People not in the know stare but I don't care! It's worth it! I've discovered so many new artists this way! I don't exactly know how Shazam works and I have no interest in learning. I don't want to ruin the illusion. It's magic and that's all there is to it.

In my free time, I like to watch makeup collections and home tours on YouTube and through blogs like Apartment Therapy and The Selby. Shots like this do way too much for me. I've been consumed by the thought of organizing my own stash!

I put the Roman in romance. Love poetry.















Now Playing: "I Spy" by Mikhael Paskalev
*Thanks to this Hanes commercial, I can't get this song out of my head!