Day Trippin'

I've got the Travel Bug... ALWAYS!  But the extra free time and vacation funds don't allow me to be off exploring far away lands as much as I would like, so I've mapped out a few very local day trips to keep me immersed in different cultures & cuisine along with a bit of consumerism!

First in a little series - Olvera Street in Downtown Los Angeles:

The Fashion:

Cute cross-body coin purse

What I didn't capture was the pretty, cut-out cap sleeves.  Such a must-have!

Love these leather huarache sandals.  I wore black ballet flats on this boiling hot day and my feet were not happy with me... These were the perfect answer!

The Food:

Of course there are a TON of yummy places for amazing Mexican food (check out all the options HERE), but a late afternoon sweet tooth craving led me to this highly recommended bakery tucked away in one of the hidden corridors... Caramel filled churro - Yes, Please!

The Fun:

Handcrafted wrestling masks... I feel a Halloween costume inspiration coming on!

Everything is so colorful and happy!  I would love to do a collage of the tin hearts in my entryway.

And Frida:

My treasure of the day.  I just love her.

Great Farmer's Market tote

Click HERE for more details on location, general information, etc. and take a day to feel like you're world's away!

Summer Skin Rejuvenation

It's been a long hot Summer and it's time to start sloughing off a bit of the extra rays, freckles and fine lines I collected enjoying extended days in the sunshine.  I have put together for you a little regimen that I go through 2 - 3 times a week to gain back a soft glow and smoother complexion.

First, I combine a teaspoon size of the Burt's Bees cream cleanser with the same amount of the apricot scrub and apply over entire face.  Then a super key part is the automated scrub brush.  This works the products in brilliantly and really loosens the dead & dry skin.  I use the DDF brand, but there are plenty on the market now that don't break the bank.  For a few minutes, use this brush on the highest speed in a circular motion, concentrating on your driest areas.  

Once above step is complete, it's time for a mask.  June Jacobs Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is my ultimate favorite.  Apart from the amazing spiced pumpkin scent, the enzymes are key to this mask as they continue to rid your complexion of the dead skin cells.  It's a bit tingly with a slight warming sensation... I love it as it makes me feel it's working!  

All you need is about a quarter size amount of the mask to cover your entire face (skipping the delicate skin around your eyes... but I do load up on my "crow's feet area").  Leave on for 10 - 15 min. then rinse completely with cool water.  If you have sensitive skin, please do a small patch test before applying to your entire face to make sure you don't have any unpleasant reactions.

My skin gets slightly red with this mask because I am obviously in the category of sensitive skin, but I feel the burn and know it's working :)  

Finally, follow up with an ultra creamy moisturizer ( I use Korres Wild Rose Moisturizer & Brightening Cream) to help lock in all the added moisture.  Then continue with your normal makeup routine which should include sunscreen especially since you've just revealed a layer of "new" skin.

Major Fall Haul

I've been browsing all the new magazines and got a great glimpse at all the Fall Collections this past week while out and about for Fashion's Night Out and have come up with my top few "Must-Haves" for this season.  The all mix and mingle well together, so these 6 updates to your Fall closet could be all you need for a few fresh looks!

#1 - Fitted Blazer

I went with this kaleidoscope patterned look from ZARA.  It has a tailored, sophisticated fit and will allow me to wear it a million different ways.  It's one of those pieces you might pass by as it's a little much on it's own, but layer it to tone it down or make a simple LBD a bit more interesting.  All those colors make it an easy piece to pair with just about anything.  Striped shell underneath is J Crew.

#2 - Ankle Boots

While these are to be found in all the stores this season, I got lucky organizing my shoes this Summer and found this great pair that are already broken in and a little rugged.  Pair these with some navy or burgundy cords, boyfriends jeans (strategically rolled up, of course) and for a little adventure try with a sweater dress and vibrant tights.

LIKE THIS FROM TRINA TURK'S NEW FALL COLLECTION!

#3 - Textured Handbag

A great way to spice up a basic Fall look is to have a go-to bag that adds a pop of color on the days you just want to keep your clothes basic.  Forever 21

#4 - Lightweight Sweaters

I found these two at Old Navy, but the inspiration came from a few looks I saw in J Crew - Uh, HUGE $ savings!  You'll find them great for mixing in with some varying patterns (perfect for under my new blazer above or one of the skirts below).

#5 - Pencil Skirts

Found at my Majorly successful trip to the Trina Turk Sample Sale, tweed pencil skirts are a definite part of this year's Fall to Winter look.  

And #6 - Subtly Patterned Skinny Jeans

For a little bit of whimsy I am drawn to the patterned skinny jeans (no florals, please) and got lucky once again finding these at Forever 21.  Love the slimming effect of a dark, black jean and the slight hint of the polka dots make it easy to just throw on a basic tee, easy infinity scarf, ankle boots and a chunky statement necklace for a casual & fun look (zero effort)!

Happy Shopping!

Fall Manicure

Hooray, it's September 1st and while we are celebrating the last true weekend of Summer I am transitioning into some deeper Fall colors on my fingers and toes.  I found a nice, matte navy blue by Essie called Bobbing for Baubles.  I think it came out as part of their holiday collection last year and is a nice change up from my usual go-to dark color (Lincoln Park...)  Check it out!

This will be a great opportunity to try the "reverse french" look at the end of the week once my nails grow out a bit.  I'll use a glittery gold polish (Looks Like Rain, Deer) to cover the gap between the cuticle and navy polish to see how long I can make this manicure last.

Bobbing for Baubles

Found via Pinterest