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.