Back to Black...Jeggings: My Top Three Picks

Because I work from home, I avoid business duds like the plague. I'm usually either a) literally working from home in sweats or b) meeting colleagues and contacts in my "uniform" which usually consists of some combination of jeans, jacket and top. I'll toss on a scarf and boots and I'm ready to go.

Because of said "uniform," I've had quite a bit of experience with many a black jegging. Black jeggings are my comfortable, go-to pant that seem to dress things up a bit. I've tried the cheapies, I've tried the overpriced options and after a bunch...here are my top three black jeggings.

1) Citizens of Humanity Avadon Slick Skinny in Axel


These jeans look absolutely mini on the hanger but the four-way stretch is what makes them so fantastic and uber comfortable. The rise is a bit higher which helps mitigate against any plumber's crackage. Plus, they most certainly lengthen the leg line and thin out the thighs.

2) J Brand 901 Legging in Hewson


These classic skinnies host a thinner fabric, plenty of stretch and an ankle-ish length inseam. I wore the crap out of these last year and finally retired them after the fabric was worn a bit thin and the color faded. The pockets are clean and the rise is about average height.

3) Siwy Hannah in It's Magic 


These super soft and stretchy little suckers are incredibly comfortable. The pockets are a bit more detailed, the rise a bit lower than average and the inseam is the shortest of the bunch - a true ankle length. While this pair wears and washes beautifully, they definitely stretch out quite a bit between wears. After three or four wears, these jeans tend to sag just a bit on me.

Beyond these three pairs, I've also heard from many a girlfriend that HUE makes an awesome black jegging. Has anyone else tried these?

Product Review: Olie Biologique Huile Moderne, B

Put oil on your face. Yes. For serious. But not just any oil, my friends, a delicate made-just-for-yo-face oil that feels oh so lovely during the dryer winter months.

I was a bit weary when I read up on this little vial of Olie Biologique Huile Moderne in this month's Birchbox. It's pricey at $56 for an ounce (ouch) but it can be used on your face, skin, hair and even cuticles. Holla back!

Details via Birchbox:

Birchbox Breakdown:
If we had to pare our fancy skincare products down to a single product, this eco-savvy face and body oil would be a smart pick. Formulated with five 100 percent USDA-certified organic oils and vitamin E, the light but nourishing formula works on dry and oily skin alike. A couple drops smoothes over fine lines and protects against environmental damage.

How it Works:
No artificial ingredients to decode here: this richly scented organic oil blend is free of preservatives and chemical fillers. Argan oil hydrates skin, rosehip oil promotes collagen production, and bergamot oil clears up concerns like acne and redness. Neroli and frankincense oils fade scars and promote healthy, smooth skin. Finally, an infusion of antioxidant-rich vitamin E fights free radicals for anti-aging effects.

My Review:

The Good: This oil was positively lapped up by my dry winter skin! My face felt soft and moisturized and not even remotely close to the oil slick I thought it would be. Plus, it hosts a light woodsy scent that makes me smile. I even used this during the day and it created a great base for my foundation.

The Bad: Again, $56 for an just over an ounce. Holy bejeezus. While it's amazing that this product is beautiful and multi-use, that's a pretty penny.

The Verdict: B from me. Even if this product was $10 less, I would feel more inclined to pony up the dough and splurge. If you ever get a chance to give it a go - do so!

Stitch Fix: December Poncho Fun

This month's Stitch Fix, while fun, just did not fit me very well. A for effort, C for execution.

4/5 items were either too big or too long. However, I did keep the RD Style Side Button Knit Poncho which I have received oodles of compliments on.

Does it feel blanket-esque? Sure. Is it soft? Yes. Do I want to live in it? Absolutely. Considering the size of this fun item, I paired in with black jeggings and motorcycle boots, a la the set below.

Cropped Denim by Siwy
Boots by Frye

Do tell, how would you wear this poncho?

Fabulous Friday: Sparkly Stars

You know it's holiday time when you see those stars sparkling. And two ladies really hit it out of the park...you may want to put your shades on for these shiny numbers!

First up...Lea Michelle in a gold halter stunner.

Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty

 Gor.geous. I love the fit and draping of this gown. Lea looks like she belong atop a Christmas tree...but in a really nice way. And the hair, minimal accessories and makeup look stunning.

And just for fun, check out this You Tube video of Sarah Hyland poking fun at Lea's red carpet posing. Although, I have to say, she looks adorable and nicely posed in the above photo.

Next up is the adorable Jordin Sparks...

Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty

Another gilded star. Jordin looks so precious in this gunmetal gray sparkle filled cocktail dress. I totally dig the simple slingbacks and fresh makeup. And seriously, she must be rockin' the cardio because girlfriend looks smashing. Brava!

Currently Craving: Jewelry That Rocks

When I hear words like labradorite, chrysoprase, pyrite, topaz and drusy my heart skips a beat. These gems rock...especially in jewelry. As of late I've been completely crushing on the natural stones - in earrings, pendants, bracelets...you name it.

And thankfully (or not so much according to hubs), I've spotted more than a fair share of these gorgeous gems in Charlotte. I've found a lovely display of Coralia Leets at City Art Works - incredible necklaces and vermeil earrings, like this one - a pale Peruvian opal.

Photo via City Art Works

And one of my faves, Laura James Jewelry also has an array of rockin' baubles ranging from subtle pyrite studs to this ah-mazing chrysoprase vintage chain necklace. Hey Santa - I wouldn't mind this bauble for Christmas. Just sayin'...

Photo via Laura James Jewelry

Do you like to rock out with your gems? 

Here's a set to satisfy those sparkly ambitions...

Earrings by Ettinger UK
Rings at Endless.com

Product Review: TanTowel On The Glow Face Moisturizer, A-

A while back, I because fairly enamored with TanTowel...the super convenient little package to add some tan to one's bod. The kind folks from TanTowel send me a sweet package full of more products to give a go and recently I've been crushing on their On The Glow Face Moisturizer, $8.50 for 2 oz.


Details from Nordstrom:
A daily moisturizer with retinol that will help with anti-aging and rejuvenating the face. Jojoba, avocado, and olive oil will hydrate and moisturize your skin. Daily use will leave you with that sun-kissed glow.

• 2 oz.
• By TanTowel®.
  

My review:

The Good: Ok, first of all $8.50 for a nice moisturizer that gives me a golden sheen, smells nice AND has Retinol is a positive steal. STEAL! Amen to that. It also makes my skin soft and happy, providing a nice canvas for my makeup.

The Bad: No sunscreen...bummer. 

The Verdict: A-, it's a fabulous moisturizer with excellent components, the minus is for the lack of sunscreen, which I personally think should be included in every daily face moisturizer/lotion.

Currently Craving: Cozy Cashmere

What better way to celebrate Cyber Monday than to snuggle yourself in bundles of cashmere!

Yes, cashmere, the luxurious, coveted fabric that inevitably goes on sale during the holidays. In sweaters, scarves, blankets, dresses or even socks, I've been craving some super soft goodness. Thus, the set below! Just set aside some extra funds for dry cleaning... :)

Tunics by Enza Costa
Scarves & Wraps by Lands' End Canvas

Thanks & Black Friday

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and is resting up if you're planning on attacking the Black Friday sales tomorrow. Bless all of you who are crazy enough to wake before 6 am...happy shopping!

Let me know if you find any amazing scores...

Product Review: Julie Hewett Palette, A-

Ah, variety. 'Tis the spice of life. And what better way to celebrate variety than in a perfectly presentable makeup palette?

A few weeks back I sauntered into Jeffre Scott Apothecary (a must visit if and when you head to Charlotte) and purchased a gorgeous fall palette from Julie Hewett. The best part about these palettes is that they're incredibly easy to apply and multi-purpose - you can enlighten your eyes, lips and cheeks with gorgeous color.

I snagged a custom color palette, but below is the Ombre palette you can find at Anthropologie or the Julie Hewett website. Most of these quad palettes retail for $48.


About the palette:

A colorful, multi-purpose quad to shape, contour, highlight, line and shine your eyes, lips and cheeks.
* Key ingredients: castor seed oil, candelilla wax, lanolin oil, mango seed butter, beeswax, camellia seed oil, grape seed oil, vitamin E
* 0.4 oz
* Ombre: Contains Bellini and Brunette Silky Powder Shadow, Bette Cheekie and Mystere Cream Shadow

My review: 

The Good: The powder shadows is soft and velvety with pretty great color saturation, the cream shadow goes on very well over an eye base and the cheek/lip shade blends very well. Plus, the colors included in my custom "Jason" are beautifully plummy and rich.

The Bad: $48 for the eye quad isn't ridiculous ($12 per full sized shadow), but it's nothing to sneeze at, either.

The Verdict: This palette earns an A- from me. I love the mix of shadows and textures and, as long as the cream items stay fairly fresh for a few months, this palette seems like a great investment.

Freakin' Fabulous Friday: Twilight, Sparkly Fun

Happy Friday to all! I'm especially excited for this weekend because I'll be catching Breaking Dawn with a handful of my lady friends. I wouldn't quite call myself a Twihard, but I enjoyed the books and who doesn't love a little bit of eye candy and vampire action to kick off their weekend? Don't judge.

Today's Fabulous Friday we have three lovely ladies in four fantastic ensembles...

First up, Kristen Stewart.
 

Photo via: Dave Benett/Getty Images

 Um, beautiful?! She almost looks *gasp* happy! A gorgeous Roberto Cavalli black beaded gown with leather belt. It's stunning and her hair and makeup is perfect.

Second...keeping with the Twilight theme is Ashley Greene...

Photo via: Jason Merritt/Getty Images

How much do I adore this stunning red color and the soft ruffles?! Girlfriend can really rock the brights. Hey Donna Karan, can you go ahead and send me on of these gowns? Thanksbai.

And last but not least is Zoe Saldana in a emerald Elie Saab stunner...

Photo via: Steve Lawton/FilmMagic

 

This green gives Kermit a run for his money but Zoe looks gorgeous. Love the belt, the easy hair and the just long enough length on this fabulous gown. Who knew you could make a Heineken logo look so good?

Happy weekend, everyone!

Currently Craving: A Little Zig, A Little Zag

Ready for an eyeful? How about some zig zag print?! Whether you want just a bit of this fab print via tights or a scarf or you really want to induce a dizzying spell of fashion through a jacket or dress, there's plenty to go around.

I especially adore the burnout rust and black Sierra blouse from Anthropologie, below and the cozy black and white wrap sweater. I'll take a little zig and a little zag!

What do you think – too much print or just enough pizazz?

Cardigans at Pink Mascara
Clutches by Elaine Turner Designs

Frugal Friday: Chain Bags

With the holidays coming up, you're going to need your paws to open gifts, drink delightful beverages and snack on a myriad of bites. You don't want to worry about stuffing your clutch underneath your arm as you indulge in such cheer. That's why chain bags are here! Yes, I rhymed. On purpose.

Whether you dig the sequined variety with a thin chain strap or a chic leather crossbody, you're bound to find plenty of options in the set below. The best part? This bag can be a gift to yourself, from yourself...because each bag in the set below is $50 or less. Boo yah! Happy Friday, everyone!

Shoulder Bags by Lou-ella
Clutches at ModCloth

Product Review: June Jacobs Papaya Purifying Enzyme Masque, C+

Birchbox has been pretty keen on getting me hooked on face masks. Yes indeed, over the past few months I've sampled three very different face treatments – all of which I'll review in the coming weeks! With the dryer, cooler weather coming in, I'm sure we could all use a face treatment or two!

This week, we're chatting about June Jacobs Papaya Purifying Enzyme Mask: $62 for 3.7 oz.


Details from Birchbox:
For instant complexion gratification, nothing beats an enzyme-based mask. This enzyme-based version quickly revitalizes skin, dissolving dead cells and brightening your overall complexion. It doesn’t hurt that the natural ingredients smell heavenly, and work without irritating skin.

Papaya fruit enzyme, mango and pineapple extracts dissolve dead skin for clearer pores. Sweet almond and borage seed oils hydrate while antioxidants from white, red, and green tea, goji berry, pomegranate, and grape seed extracts protect skin and prevent wrinkles.

My review:
The Good: Oh wow does this masque smell incredible. Like truly drool worthy. After I came to from the amazing scent, I found this masque easy to apply and left my skin nice and soft. I saw a bit of brightening, but not too much overall.

The Bad: Holy hell, $62 for less than 4 ounces? It's a nice masque but it's not washing my car or transforming me into a super model. Plus, considering the consistency of the masque, the phrase "a little goes a long way" doesn't quite work in this case.

The Verdict: C+. It's a very nice face treat. It smells like a treat and I bet your skin will feel supple afterwards. If you can stomach the price, it may be worth a try. 

November Stitch Fix Fabulousness

Oh pipe dreams...I really didn't want to shop for myself this month! But wow, Stitch Fix really hit it out of the park this month! Let's go shopping, shall we? Seems like the theme of this month's fix was chic zippers...!

First up, Ark &Co. grey zipper moto jacket. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $80

Siwy black jeggings, vintage Gap button down, Stitch Fix Ark & Co. jacket

Next, Greylin raw edge silk tank. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $105

Siwy black jeggings, Stitch Fix Greylin tank

And then, BB Dakota Alice zipper leggings. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $100

Stitch Fix BB Dakota ponte pants, Hunter Dixon Vest, Tucker for Target blouse, Gap sweater, Old Navy scarf

Lastly, Theme Farrah halter dress. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $65

Banana Republic cardigan, Kohl's belt, Stitch Fix Theme dress

And the jewelry in this fix? A & J smoky chain wrapped earrings. Stitch Fix price: $65

I can tell that the fine shoppers at Stitch Fix are really narrowing in on my style because I really loved everything from this month's package! If you're interested in signing up for this genius monthly fashion delivery, just click here for a referral.

So, I'm definitely keeping the Ark & Co. jacket...what else do you dig?

Product Review: Ahava Mineral Hand Cream, A-

Ooooh what's that smell? It's Ahava Mineral Hand Cream and it's today's review of the day!

Yup, a month or so back I received a deluxe sample tube of Ahava Mineral Hand Cream from Birchbox and have been portioning off little squeezes at a time ever since! I remember reading a while back that besides her face, a woman first shows her age on her hands. So, it seems appropriate that I diligently lather up my mitts before heading to bed every night. This is a perfect job for this hand cream!


Details from The Skin Store:
This extremely rich cream provides your hands with deep nourishment and hydration, instantly soothing chapped, dry surfaces and imparting healthy, satiny softness for increased comfort throughout the day. Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feeling and restores vitality for supple, softer and younger looking hands. Approved for sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic. Dermatologically tested. Paraben free.

My Review:

The Good: This smells de-freakin'-lightful. It also moisturizes beautifully and my hands really thank me in the morning. Done and done!

The Bad: For hand cream, it's a bit pricey - $20 per 3.4 oz tube. However, SkinStore is running a 20% off coupon code: G2GWIN. That's winning.

The Verdict: A- overall. It's a fabulous hand cream for a bit of an elevated price point. If you want to care for your hands, this is a great way to go.

Wine Not Try It On For Fall?

Gone are the heated days of spring shades of blue and yellow and summer pinks. It's fall, baby. That means rich shades accented by cozy cardigans and chic scarfs. It also means it's time for wine...colors...and the adult beverage, of course!

That being said, I've been falling in love with the rich bordeaux tones making their way into everything from jackets to jeggings. Below is a set of a just a few rich wine items I'm crazy about. I'm especially loving the wine colored skinny jean and Tolani scarf!

Which rich shades are you pulling out for fall?

Turtlenecks by Free People
Scarves & Wraps by Tolani

Product Review: Burt's Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser, B

It's product review time, friends! Today I'm reviewing one of the two products I received in a recent Burt's Bees BzzAgent kit - Burt's Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser. This kit came at a very opportune time...I just finished up my evening cleanser and was looking for another option with the cooler weather coming in!

Details from Burt's Bees:

This soap-free cream cleanser is clinically proven to moisturize sensitive skin while gently cleansing away dirt, oil and make-up without over drying or causing redness. Distinctly formulated with softening Cotton Extract to help skin replenish its outer layer and minimize the effects of potential irritants such as harsh soaps or cleansers, it also moisturizes with Rice Extract and soothes with Aloe. Naturally gentle and skin-friendly for daily use, it’s what every sensitive product should be.

* Softens and helps replenish skin's outer layer with Cotton Extract
* Gently removes dirt, oil and make-up without over drying or causing redness
* Formulated with Quillaja and Yucca Extracts to help remove impurities without stripping essential moisture
* Fragrance-free and hypo-allergenic
* Allergy-tested and dermatologist-tested

6 oz, retails for $10

My review:

The Good: This is a super rich cream cleanser that is incredibly gentle on the skin. It left my face very soft and well moisturized - a nice set up for night cream! I also really appreciate the natural ingredients and affordable price.

The Bad: You *really* have to rinse over and over again to ensure you don't leave any residue on your face. This took quite a bit of getting used to! Also, it isn't formulated extraordinary well to take off makeup.

The Verdict: This product earns a solid B. It's a rich cream cleanser - great for the colder months ahead. And for those with dry or sensitive skin, this could be your go to face wash!

Currently Craving: Capes!

Jacket weather is starting to arrive. Hell to the yeah. But in addition to coats, sweaters, jackets, and scarves, I am really digging capes this year! No, not Superman sized capes, but lady like capes, capelets, etc.

I actually prefer the more casual cape sweaters and jackets instead of the fancy pants fur and velvet varieties. They're much more versatile, comfortable and current!

In honor of my craving for capes, below are a few I'm crushing on. What say you? Can you get on board with capes?!

Turtlenecks by Aqua
Sweaters at Nordstrom

October Stitch Fix Satisfaction

Happy Monday to all! Hope everyone had a fabulous weekend.

On Thursday, my dear husband walked into the house with the mail...and my Stitch Fix! Of course I galloped down the stairs and ripped open the package faster than I devour a brownie sundae. Ok, maybe not. But close.

If you're not familiar with Stitch Fix, an amazing, deliver-fashion-to-your-door website, check out this post for all the info and referral details.

This month, I was sent three tops, one dress and one necklace. And since last month I was a bit stingy on the photos, I hope I made up for it below! Please be kind...my makeup and hair are a bit rough after a super busy day.

First up, a rust colored, silk Jaloux tank. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $80

Jaloux rust tank, J Brand 901 leggings, Willow & Clay blazer

I adored the color of this lightweight, silky tank and appreciated the sheer topper racer back. My only issue was the fit...as I have a bit more up top, this top made me look like I was with child. However, it looked pretty sweet belted!

Second, a beautiful taupe Line & Dot sleeveless top. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $88

Line & Dot top, Old Navy red skinnies, Willow & Clay blazer, Stitch Fix necklace

I love the cut of this tank, but it was a bit short on my torso. The feel was great too - incredibly soft and I loved the mix of fabrics. The back is super cute too. The necklace shown above was also included in this month's fix, price: $50.


Third, a mint colored Glam maxi dress. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $65

Glam maxi, Target brown leather belt, White House Black Market sweater, Zac Posen for Target scarf, Laura James necklace

I was giddy when I pulled this out of my package. Even though it has a silky feel, this dress is machine washable. Score! The color was super pretty and there are tons of ways to dress this piece up or down. Length was fine for me with 3" wedges (I'm 5'2"). I don't know how crazy I am about the dress neckline, but I liked everything else. 

Last, a black silk beaded Greylin top. Size: Small. Stitch Fix price: $115

Greylin top, J Brand 901 leggings

This top is not only incredible soft, silky (duh) and pretty but it's also super versatile! I was a bit unsure of the cut - it's asymmetrical and ties at the lower left, but I loved it with jeggings and heels. I can imagine even tucking it in, too. The beaded is well done...just have to be cautious when it's brought to the dry cleaners!

So, that's this month's Stitch Fix! Let me know your thoughts on these items...and what you think I kept!

Currently Craving: Rainy Day Fashion

Ah, rainy days. The smell of rain, the slick pavement...the perfect backdrop for an afternoon nap. However, rain can throw a wrench into my ensembles, so I'm always on the lookout for great looking raincoats and boots..that don't cost an arm and a leg.

Frankly, I have a bit of beef with umbrellas. For one, I always forget to bring one with me or leave one in my car. Also, I just don't know what to do with it once I arrive at said dry location. Overall, I just find them to be a bit of a pain in the ass.

Therefore, I usually veer towards a rain jacket/anorak/coat that's both waterproof and offers a hood. Cute little raingear is right up my alley. So, below is an abbreviated set of some rainy day gear I'm pouring over.

What do you think? What do you sport when it's raining away?

Coats by Boden
Boots by Kamik