The Gift Edit: For The Beauty Enthusiast
Friday, December 3, 2021
One of the best aspects of the holiday market is the extravagant take on gift presentation. Every year beauty brands gear up to release unique holiday collections and gift sets often dressed in beautiful packaging and seasonal shades. Best of all, holiday ranges and sets create a special experience for shoppers by adding accompanying products or grander offerings at bargains. From lust-worthy premium beauty sets to luxe accessories, these are my must-have gift choices for the beauty enthusiast on your list.
The Gift Edit: For The Gals
Monday, November 29, 2021
The most joyous time of year has finally arrived and with that comes the delightful task of gifting to our loved ones. While the idea of holiday gift giving may seem daunting to some, this kind act shouldn't be stressful or anxiety inducing. Whether small or grand, a thoughtful treat can leave a delightful impression if chosen well. From chic fashionistas to the busy gal who deserves a spa-like escape, I've searched high and low for a special set of gifts that will sure to wow even the trickiest personalities on your list.
5 Enticing Autumnal Candles to Make Your Home Feel Cozy
Tuesday, November 9, 2021
As the weather grows colder, nothing sounds more comforting than escaping the chill in a warm and cozy home. A classically comfortable home may include a roaring fireplace, a luxury unknown to most city dwellers, but achieving these same atmospheric qualities is quite simple. Filling a space with deliciously scented candles with notes reminiscent of the season can create an inviting and aromatic haven regardless of grand amenities. Whether the burn fills a room of enticing fall spices or warm, fragrant notes familiar to the cooler seasons, I've compiled a collection of 5 enticing autumnal candles to make your home feel cozy all season long.
RUKSKE // Mulholland
A luxury candle collection which provides an elegant experience with every burn, RUKSKE candles are the epitome of timeless quality. From a chic and sleek presentation to the use of high-quality ingredients, founder Brooke Dulien truly offers a luxurious aromatic adventure with each of her candles. Formulated with a coconut blended soy wax, a cleaner alternative to the traditionally harsher candle waxes, each candle is crafted with carefully chosen notes, ultimately creating a special scent profile with each candle. Mulholland is the perfectly complex yet alluring blend to light this autumn as its burn fills the air with aromatic spicy notes (cardamom, nutmeg) carried by rich musk and deep elements (leather, oud, cedar) with a slightly tart pop (bergamot, grapefruit). A warm and intense scent to enjoy long after the season has passed.
ORTIGIA SICILIA // Ambra Nera
Encapsulating the essence of Italian luxury through unique fragrances, Ortigia Sicilia's vast array of opulent offerings lead one on a delightful sensory journey. Their candle range is no exception as each beautifully blended candle is not only formulated with unique ingredients but are housed in attractively designed glass jars serving as an attractive decoration element. The warm amber and woody elements of oak featured in their Ambra Nera candle is an ideal option for a cool fall season. A rich burn fills a room with an abundance of pleasantly warm notes creating a cozy oasis to enjoy while escaping the autumn chill.
NEST // Rose Noir & Oud
An authority of scent, NEST fragrances has expertly captured the hallmark scents of each season while incorporating their unique blend of luxury. One of their designer candles transports one to another place through their specially blended scents. Of their vast library of fragrances, Rose Noir & Oud beautifully smells of the deeper and more sultry notes of autumn. An exquisite pairing of floral and woody notes, this warm yet smoky candle evokes the joyful tones of this season through rosy elements melted with deliciously rich oud and black leather.
NETTE // Suede Fringe
A brand committed to clean and sustainable practices and ingredients, NETTE is elevating candles far beyond appearance. Formulating their handmade, Italian glass jarred candles with non-toxic wax mixtures (coconut-soy) and non-synthetic fragrances derived from essential oils, NETTE is creating an attractive clean alternative with maximum chicness. With an ever growing range, these cotton-wick candles offer a clean burn that will provide pleasant aromas to any space. Suede Fringe, a richly scented spice noted blend is fitting for autumn. Kissed with warm elements like suede and sandalwood, this fusion of scents will encourage you to light this addictive option well after fall.
OTHERLAND // Chandelier
Space transforming scents, clean ingredients and artistic, polished glass jars are the identifying hallmarks of Otherland candles. With a fashionable eye coupled with her globe-trotting history, Abigail Cook Stone brings an interesting perspective to the candle industry. Her thoroughly crafted range of clean, toxin-free candles fill a room with luxurious scents without the harsh pollutants. Chandelier, a luxuriously robust scent appropriate for fall, saturates a space with a blend of champagne, leather and saffron. A sophisticated scent perfect for a seasonal fete or a calmer moment that invites a more extravagant tone.
IMAGES COURTESY OF BRAND
Top 3 Cozy Fall Trends to Shop Now
Friday, October 22, 2021
As the air becomes crisp and the turning leaves begin to fall from the trees, we start reaching for cool-weather style staples. While chunky knits, cozy scarves and luxurious layers are the standard items appearing in a traditional autumn/winter wardrobe, each year invites exciting seasonal trends for a style refresh. This season's trend market is making way for interesting wins and fails and I've sifted through the lot for some stellar options that are sure to stick around. Whether the trend calls for revitalized classics or a contemporary take on traditional materials, I've rounded up the top 3 cozy fall trends to shop now.
This long-established equestrian style has once again become a highly coveted trend and many brands are creating their own reiterations to wear for years to come. From chic feminine silhouettes to slim jackets, this iconic design is seen in refreshed outerwear styles which feel polished and modern. Sport this timeless option over sweaters with riding pants and slim trousers or pop over easy day dresses for a seasonal touch.
SHEARLING ACCESSORIES
A beautiful fabric signature to the cold seasons, this cushy material is reimagined in accessories this autumn. Summer accessories like tote bags and easy slip-on sandals are dressed for fall in this luxe material. Additionally, footwear styles once seen as fads are made new again with shearling accents and unexpected tones. Offering a textured detail to layered looks, shearling accessories are a fitting trend which add cozy elements without the bulk.
SWEATER DRESSES
A style which is no stranger to an autumn/winter style lineup, sweater dresses are getting quite an upgrade this season. Now presented in luxe fabrics and tailored slim-fitting silhouettes, sweater dresses are no longer a fast-fashion casualty. Luxurious improvements to this comfortable, warm staple create elevated designs deserving of the spotlight.
The Ultimate Boot Guide with Sarah Flint
Wednesday, October 20, 2021
As we welcome the chillier half of the year, our wardrobes also shift to seasonally appropriate garments, accessories and footwear. With a closet filled with sartorial seasonal classics, no autumn/winter wardrobe is complete without a pair of boots. Whether they're tall and snug or of a fancier variety, boots are sometimes a tricky item to get right. Luckily, Sarah Flint has taken the guess work out of boot shopping and has created a range of perfectly designed options that cater to an array of needs. From heeled dressy styles to coveted knee-high models, I've compiled the ultimate guide to Sarah Flint's boot offerings to get you sorted for the cold months ahead. Kick up your heels and grab a hot beverage -- read on for the must-have boots you'll want to year all autumn long.
TALL BOOTS
1, Alexandra 50 // Knee-high Heeled Boots -- Black/Navy
Ultra-chic, leg-hugging knee-high boots aren't always the easiest of styles to find. While many complain about incorrect fits, shapes and fabrications, the Alexandra Boot is the perfect remedy to this particular boot woe. Constructed in Italian stretch suede, this luxurious boot beautifully contours to the leg, providing the perfect slim fit. Additionally, it is designed with a hidden zipper for easy wear and features Flint's signature light-weight tortoise block heel. A beautiful addition to not only wear throughout the season ahead but for many years to come.
2. Perfect Stretch Boot 30 // Knee-High Pull on Boot -- Black/Taupe
For a no-fuss easy solution which pairs beautifully with pants or a dress, the Perfect Stretch Boot offers an elegant touch to a wealth of ensembles. Expertly constructed in water-resistant high-quality suede and a lug-style outersole, this stylish pull-on boot option is a wonderful shoe to sport in fall's unpredictable weather. Best of all, this chic style offers a timeless shape while thoughtful details like 6mm of extra padding and anatomical arch support maximize on comfort.
BOOTIES
3. Perfect Zip Bootie 30 | 70 -- Espresso Crosta/Black Calf
Offered in two heel heights, this versatile bootie option provides supportive elevation for extended wear. Unlike similar styles currently on the market, Flint's upgraded design is crafted with a busy woman in mind. A generously sized toe box allows for a comfortable fit while a padded insole with her unique arch support lends to pleasant, relaxed wear. While the fit alone makes these a shoe wardrobe must-have, luxurious details like the gold galvanized double zipper detailing and high-quality materials create an elegant lasting wear with minimal damage.
4. Perfect Dress Bootie 60 | 90 -- Black Suede/Taupe
Perhaps my favorite bootie from Flint's versatile boot range, the Perfect Dress Bootie is an ideal shoe to sport at more formal fetes. In true Sarah Flint fashion, this beautifully made option presents a sleek fit with darling feminine details like a scalloped trim and French binding. Offered in two heel heights for a wider preference, the Dress Bootie elegantly provides height with respects to comfort through Flint's comfort hallmarks and pitch support by a hidden platform. A wonderful and wise option to consider before holiday season is in full swing.
5.Ellie x Gravati // Chelsea Style Bootie -- Chestnut Vachetta/Black Vachetta/Camel Crosta
A tasteful option designed after Flint's first employee Ellie, this chic Chelsea-style bootie is a perfect model for a city-chic gal. An easy slip on bootie, this carefully designed shoe features refined elements like slim diagonal elastic paneling and artful stitching which not only highlight the expert craftsmanship but lends to the overall comfort and fit of the shoe. This year-round style beautifully wears in an array of weather conditions and is designed for lasting wear without the bulk and weight of traditional styles.
Images: Product Images Courtesy of Sarah Flint
Collage Edit: Own
Elegant Florals Take the City
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Beautiful garments featuring poppy florals and lush foliage prints have always found a home in my wardrobe. When done well, these eye-catching prints really add a lovely element to a wealth of ensembles, especially when executed on romantic fabrics like airy silk chiffon. An elegant and romantic piece featuring these charming motifs was the exact kind of piece I had in mind when planning a look for a special late-summer celebration.
The event called for a polished ensemble that was fit for an outdoor setting and knew it was the perfect time to pull out this chic tie-neck chiffon blouse which featured an elegant and bright take on these nature-inspired prints I adore. I kept this gem of a top the focal point of the look and paired it with dark pleated formal shorts and luxe accessories in the same dark contrasting hue. Funny enough, the picturesque restaurant we chose coincidentally complimented my look of the day. Combining that with a fine meal and the most-loved company made for perfect afternoon celebration
Best NYC Spots to Grab a Sweet Bite
Saturday, September 18, 2021
Boost Skin Health with This Sweet Wellness Treat
Thursday, September 9, 2021
With another fun summer drawing to a close, now is the time to kick start your autumn wellness routine. Taking the time to properly assess the items that go in your body is just as important as what goes on it. Incorporating a quality collagen supplement is a highly valuable component in a comprehensive wellness regimen. From easy one-take remedies to powdered mixtures, consuming an extra dose of collagen is easier than ever. Reserveage Nutrition is taking a different approach to collagen by offering a candy-like option that is not only fun but feels like an small indulgence rather than a task.
COLLAGEN
Before I jump into why I'm loving Reserveage Collagen Candy, let's talk basics. Collagen is a beneficial protein which lends to a wealth of wellness benefits ranging from skin to hair and nails. Overtime the natural collagen properties in the body diminish leading to a weaker and suffering appearance of skin. Seeking a collagen supplement can counteract the natural loss of this beauty-boosting protein and aid in improvements in the overall health of skin and more.
COLLAGEN CANDY
As the natural breakdown of collagen occurs, Collagen Candy can help remedy the troubles experienced by this loss. Its sugar-free formula is developed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and other potent ingredients which help boost skin's texture and overall look. With consistent use, not only are fine lines softened but skin elasticity is boosted which ultimately leads to a more radiant, youthful appearance. Best of all, this powerhouse product aids in strengthening nails, preventing painful breakage while enhancing hair density. If these proven beauty improvements are not thrilling enough, adding this perfectly-portioned treat to your wellness routine ahead of autumn will help promote more hydrated and smooth skin conditions later in the season.
Whether you're on-the-go or at your desk, Collagen Candy's compactly packaged treats help you gain daily collagen benefits without the chore of traditional supplements. No need to mix in a beverage or water as the powdered candy-like formula melts on your tongue much like the nostalgic candy from childhood. Offered in a sweet yet subtly tart sour apple flavoring, this fun supplement is one you'll want to try.
4 Fall Nail Looks with JinSoon
Friday, September 3, 2021
Say goodbye to the neon tones of summer and try your hand at these minimalistic nail art looks this autumn. Using the trendy JinSoon x Suzie Kondi Collection, illustrious nail artist Jin Soon Choi has imagined up four ultra-chic nail art looks perfect for the fall season ahead. Get settled in and let's dive right into these looks.
PREP
Prior to starting any nail design, be sure to properly prep the nails. For a less harsh option, choose an acetone-free remover to clear away an remnants of previous polish, debris and oils. Use a nourishing cuticle oil and gently push back with a cuticle tool of your choice. Follow by shaping nails to your desire and layering on a single coat of JINsoon Power Coat evenly on each nail.
TWO TONE CHEVRON FRENCH TIP
A fresh take on a classic design, Jin Soon modernized a traditional French tip with contrasting shades and on-trend hues. "I think using two different pops of color on each hand makes this look modern and fun," says Choi.
Step 1. Begin this two-toned design with the lighter shade, Piedra. Swipe the nail polish brush in a diagonal line from one nail wall towards the center of the free edge.
Step 2. Follow by picking up the darker polish (Palma or Lavanda), and repeating Step 1 on the opposite nail wall. The darker shade of choice is to overlap the lighter shade and neatly meet in the center.
Step 3. To avoid smudging, allow the polish design to dry for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4. Once dry, apply a complete layer of JINsoon HyperGloss to each nail to achieve a gel-like finish.
COLOR POP POLKA DOT
Often presented in a black and white combination, Jin Soon has added a whimsical touch to this elegant pattern by using a fresh color way.
Step 1: Prior to creating this cheerful nail art, place a dollop of Palma and Piedra to a nail pallet or piece of foil.
Step 2: Using a dotting nail tool, dip into the first shade (Palma) and create a free-handed, spaced dot pattern on the nail.
Step 3: For a unique look, choose a dotting tool in different sizes and pick up the next shade (Piedra), continue applying dots to the spaced areas on the nail.
Step 4: Allow 1-2 minutes for the design to dry and set.
Step 5: Finish the look with a coat of JINsoon HyperGloss top coat.
DOUBLE FRENCH
An elegant interpretation of the standard French tip, Jin layered two polishes for a more complex look that appears modern and sleek.
For this nail look, you'll need a precision nail art brush. If you don't have one, a tiny paint or makeup brush will work well too.
Step 1: To start this design, begin by picking up Palma on the tiny brush and draw a thin line along the free edge of the nail.
Step 2: With the same brush, use Lavanda and draw a thin line below the one you've just created with the previous polish.
Step 3: Whilst drying, use a clean cotton bud soaked in remover and clean up the edges.
Step 4: Once dry, give the nails a glossy, chip-resistant finish with a fortified layer of JINsoon Top Gloss.
NEGATIVE SPACE SWIRL
An ultra-cool nail look, this negative space design will offer a fun way to wear a sophisticated shade in an eye-catching minimalistic shape.
Step 1: Use a tiny nail art brush and saturate with your preferred polish (Piedra). Draw a free-handed swirl lined shape along the nail, stretching from the bottom to top of nail.
Step 2: Once the shape is achieved, use the same polish and fill in the nail from the line to the neighboring nail wall. Be sure to leave a bare space on the opposite side (negative space).
Step 3: Use a polish remover saturated cotton bud to clean up the design and allow to dry for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: For a glossy, chip-resistant finish, layer nails with an even coat of JINsoon Top Gloss.
From invigorating watersports to splendid summer strolls, an enjoyable day in the sun can leave hair in a tricky state. Much like the skin, sun saturated hair can become damaged by harmful UV rays which contribute to drier conditions making hair more susceptible to breakage and disturbance. The key to protecting and rejuvenating these hair conditions is seeking solutions and products with hydrating ingredients and UV inhibitors which hinder sun damage. Read on for my three simple quick fixes to revive hair after a day in the sun.
PROTECT
Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
A protective product that packs a punch, this light-weight spray is one I'd recommend not only as after care but one to use before you head out for a long day in the sun. This potent mist is formulated with an effective blend of oils (wintergreen, cinnamon bark) which filter damaging UV rays as well as nourishing ingredients like shea butter which further hydrate parched sun-weathered strands. For an effective application, mist evenly over the without overwhelmingly dousing strands.
CLEANSE
Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Biotin Dry Shampoo
Refresh a sweaty scalp and suffering hair with an easy application of this detoxifying and balancing favorite. Suitable for all hair types, Briogeo Scalp Revival is comprised of healing agents like witch hazel and binchotan charcoal, a potent ingredient which pulls away follicle clogging impurities while refreshing the scalp. Best of all, this rejuvenating dry shampoo consists of biotin which promotes nutrient-rich hair growth.
STYLE
Bumble & Bumble Surf Infusion
Generously applying this nourishing salt spray to sun-saturated tresses boosts the natural texture caused by the elements while providing body and movement. Infused with UV inhibitors and a mixture of conditioning oils, this salt spray helps create a touchable waved beachy hairstyle without added heaviness or drying qualities. If using hot tools, use this as finishing spray which will not only provide texture but lasting hold. To activate the styling agents, be sure to shake before use and apply from mid-length to ends for best results.
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IMAGES: OWN/PRODUCTS COURTESY OF BRANDSClassic Favorites by Sarah Flint
Thursday, June 17, 2021
A favorite among royals and prominent celebrities alike, Sarah Flint has truly carved a special space in the luxury footwear industry. A brand focusing on sleek, timeless styles with a spotlight on comfort through cutting-edge techniques, Sarah Flint helps women take the guess work out of chic footwear. From attractive flat styles to various elegant heeled options, finding a perfect solemate has never been easier with Sarah Flint.
I'm thrilled to share that I'll be joining the wonderful Sarah Flint team as a Brand Ambassador. Over the next few months I'll have the opportunity to not only share the brand's exquisite footwear but will highlight the many brilliant ways this fast-growing, woman-founded brand is changing the scope of luxury footwear through innovation, a firm commitment to quality, and inclusivity.
Upon learning more about about the brand, it was Sarah's unique approach to footwear use and unmatched technique in design which extraordinarily stood out to me. By opting for the excellence of Italian artisans and factories used by popular heritage brands, each shoe is guaranteed to feature high-quality materials and a meticulous attention to detail from base formulation to final execution. The most exciting feature of her shoes lies in the actual construction of each style, emphasized by a targeted focus on comfort for lasting wear.
A generous toe box lends to a more comfortable fit while an enhanced foot bed is anatomically designed to support the natural arch of the foot. If that's not enough of a luxury, Sarah's vow to quality extends to details promoting long-term use and durability. These features include a steel rod stiletto which increases the longevity of the heel and a slim fortified rubber out sole which amplifies grip and stability - a thoughtful addition which usually costs a pretty penny at your favorite local cobbler.
With an array of styles fit for a multitude of ensembles, Sarah Flint's vast collection seamlessly fits into any classic wardrobe. Whether it be the iconic Natalie Flat or elegant Perfect Pump, SF's sophisticated options make stylish dressing a breeze.
Top Beauty Tomes Beauty Enthusiasts Should Read Now
Friday, April 16, 2021
By Mathilde Thomas
Ageless Beauty the French Way: Secrets from Three Generations of French Beauty Editors
By Clémence von Mueffling
A truly special guide, Ageless Beauty the French Way is a unique comprehensive French beauty manual revealing the greatest secrets, tips, practices and more by three generations of French beauty experts. If you've ever wondered about French women's luxurious lifestyle customs or their effortless approach to beauty, the pages of this book are filled with details that reveal just that and more. From skin and hair to their signature makeup aesthetic and far more, Clémence von Mueffling along with her chic mother and grandmother have spilled their top professional secrets and classic beauty traditions on the pages of this beauty treasure.
Cosmetics Connoisseurs
The Makeup of a Confident Woman: The Science of Beauty, the Gift of Time, and the Power of Putting Your Best Face Forward
By Trish McEvoy
Thorough Works From the Experts
Perfumes: The A-Z Guide
By Luca Turin & Tania Sanchez
A tome devoted to all things fragrance, Luca Turin and Tania Sanchez penned a hefty guide which not only explores renowned perfumes but invites readers behind the curtain of the fragrance world through engaging essays. Along with their favorites, readers are given an informative peek at how memorable blends are formulated, the aromatic ingredients of which they're made and interesting historical influences.
By Victoire de Taillac
Energizing Spring Scents to Jumpstart The Season
Monday, March 29, 2021
As the sunshine becomes abundant and the temps grow more palatable, spring invites a refreshing change across the board, including our choice of fragrance. With the long winter behind us, now is the time to embrace bright and punched up fragrances that carry beautifully through summer. Fresh floral notes, sparkling citrus and delectable upgrades to familiar favorites are all present in this year's fragrance offerings. Read on to find out the best energizing scents to get you ready for the sun-drenched seasons ahead.
FANCY FLORAL ARRANGEMENT
Jo Malone Red Hibiscus & Yellow Hibiscus
Along with two relaunches, Jo Malone's limited edition 2021 Blossoms range features two floral-focused fragrances, Red & Yellow Hibiscus, perfect for the sunny seasons to come. These vividly formulated scents both uniquely bottle the essence of a beachy paradise, each presenting a different profile of island-inspired scents. Red Hibiscus, which is abundant in tropical forests, is the heart of this fragrance. It is complemented by soft and inviting hints of Jasmine Sambac and Vanilla which creates a sensual blend kissed with a citrus dash of mandarin. Conversely, Yellow Hibiscus serves as a bright pop next to the more sensual and smooth sister fragrance. This radiant interpretation features fresh floral notes like rose with a sunny spark of lime to awaken the overall blend which is finished off with a more mellow note of white musk.
Bulgari Allegra Collection
A five fragrance collection reimagining passionate Italian emotions through scent, the Bulgari Allegra collection is certainly a feast for the senses. Expertly pulling familiar scents signature to Italian living, each fragrances is blended with botanical classics, sparkling citrus and sweet fruit notes. Whether you're in a mood for a sweet blend, a punchy mix reminiscent of an Italian getaway or a romantic evening in historical Rome, there's a perfect perfume for you in this lovely, luxurious collection.
Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle In Bloom
For spring, Aerin has expanded on her beautiful and much-loved Mediterranean Honeysuckle fragrance and created In Bloom. This limited edition extension on the 2015 favorite is beautifully layered scent on its own which bottles elegant and luminous notes of the warmer season. Classically bright honeysuckle and grapefruit is joined by rich tuberose, jasmine, and bergamot. A truly sophisticated take on a warm weather favorite that stands strong on its own.
Estee Lauder Beautiful Magnolia
Lauder's iconic Beautiful fragrance is a beloved favorite which was reimagined for the 2021 woman. Beautiful magnolia is an emotional fragrance evoking the memorable spark one gets when meeting a new romance. It's an exciting blend of crisp Maté and Water Lotus met with luscious botanicals like sensual Turkish rose and Gardenia. Luxe additions like Cedarwood and Sandalwood round out this complex scent that will sure to become a fast date night favorite.
OPULENT OILS
NEST Perfume Oils
The authority in all things luxury scents, NEST New York newly launched a dreamy range of opulent perfume oils. These beautifully blended oils expertly capture the heart of each fragrance's star ingredient. With the foundation of each respective scent coming from botanical ingredients signature to exotic locales, every unique blend becomes a pronounced stop on a grand global journey through sensational aromas. For an amplified, lasting wear, mix in a few perfume oil drops with your favorite unscented body cream or lotion.
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