Dior sunglasses, Talentless Please Wash Your Hands t-shirt, LPA Devin sweatpants, Louis Vuitton Hot Springs backpack, Balenciaga Triple S sneakers. Teddy is wearing a custom Wash Your Paws t-shirt and Canada Pooch wellies. 
Due to stay-at-home regulations and temporary business closures, my hair salon is closed. AHH.. I gotta cover these grays! SO, I'm using the dpHUE Root Touch-Up Kit (black) and am coloring my hair for the first time. I was nervous, BUT the process was easy - I'm beyond happy with the results. I LOVE this DIY hair color kit and highly recommend dpHue. Hmm.. How many people are gonna adopt DIY hair coloring and abandon their monthly salon visit? At home coloring is a fraction of the price AND you don't even have to change out of your pj's. 
DiorByDior pink gold sunglasses, J'adior cotton oblique bracelet set, Moschino Couture! Care Label-Print t-shirt, Hip Chik LOVED jacket, LPA Devin sweatpants, Versace socks, Louis Vuitton Alma Time Trunk handbag, Yeezy season 6 stretch ankle boots 
I purchased this Glossier haul online, but recently visited the store on Lafayette St., NY AND it's a must see. If you love cosmetics, you will love perusing the pink and white themed Glossier store. This was the first time I stood in line to enter a cosmetic store and apparently, there's always a lineup?! Once you're inside, you understand that the store is fairly small and jam packed with Glossier fans. The products are on display and you gotta snag a salesperson to put in your order. The sample products are displayed on large white columns and if there wasn't so many people, it would make for a great Instagram photo. There is a huge stairway leading up to the thoughtfully designed store. The decor is brilliant and there is a small elevator "of sorts" at the cash, where Glossier shopping bags with the buyers name printed on it come from above. It's a fun shopping gimmick. I don't know if they sell these Glossier Slide Sandals at the store (they were not on display), but you can get them online. They're perfect for lounging and super cute. There are reviews saying the sizing chart is incorrect, but mine fit perfectly.
Glossier packaging is thoughtful and unique to the brand. You also receive a pink bubble pouch with a zip closure containing your products. These pouches are perfect for travel. There also a cute way to package cosmetic gifts. Who doesn't want a pink, bubblewrap pouch?!
I purchased the Glossier Solution Exfoliating Skin Protector under the impression that it was an exfoliator that perfects your skin. Upon receipt, I read Glossier reviews and it seems like this solution is for acne? The description online does say this exfoliating solution will improve the appearance of redness, blemishes and large pores. Due to the list of acids, I'm hesitant to use it all over my face and am just applying a little around my jawline daily. I have rosacea and super-sensitive skin, so I wanna make sure this solution isn't gonna burn my face off. The bottle has a push-pump that distributes small amounts of solution onto a cotton round - I like that. AND, I haven't had a serious reaction so far. BUT, this stuff smells like acid and leaves your skin feeling sticky?! Unless I see an immediate result, I like to give facial products a few months before forming an opinion. I haven't given this product enough time to tell, but will update this post in the near future..
The Glossier G embossed natural cotton rounds are high-quality cotton pads. Unlike most cotton rounds, these don't have flyaways, so you won't get fibers stuck in your lashes. They're chemical free, fragrance free and lint free. Oh and they're super soft. There's 60 cotton rounds per pack and the cost is worth it.
I LOVE the super duo Glossier serums. I've used these in the past, but ventured off to try other brands. As of late, I'm back on the Glossier bandwagon. The Super Bounce Serum contains the famed Hyaluronic Acid and vitamin B5 for mega hydration. Hence the name Bounce - your skin will feel nourished and supple. The Super Glow Serum contains vitamin C and Magnesium to promote brighter skin. The combination of these two serums has made my complexion more radiant and less dry during this cold season. This serum duo is a must have. Both serums are lightweight, non-sticky and have a subtle scent that dissipates quickly. They do take a minute to absorb, but sit nicely under your daily moisturizer.
Seems like I always and only have a breakout when I'm on vacation. The Glossier Zit Stick is perfect for on-the-go and travel. I typically use sulfur to combat breakouts, but this 5% Benzoyl Peroxide acne treatment gel gets the job done much faster. On that note, this breakout eraser is strong and will burn through a pimple in no time, so apply precisely. Twist the bottom of the pen and translucent formula appears on the stainless-steel rollerball tip. Apply on clean skin or over makeup and off ya go.. The Capryloyl Salicylic Acid will shrink blemishes while the Tea Tree Oil reduces swelling. This zit erasing formula does diminish my pimples quickly, but leaves the area red and a little irritated. I recommend you test the product on less-visible skin before putting it on your face. I will continue to use a gentle sulfur treatment at home, but will throw this zit stick in my travel cosmetic case for a quick solution.
I am obsessed with the Glossier Bubblewrap Eye and Lip Plumping Cream. This wondrous product has secured a permanent spot in my cosmetic routine AND landed a spot on my best of 2020 list. The lightweight moisturizer glides on nicely and absorbs quickly. I typically use this cream around the delicate eye area in the AM and sometimes add a little over my night eye cream for extra hydration. This Bubblewrap cream leaves my under eye area looking fresh and nourished. Trust me - It's a miracle! You can use this cream on your lips. It doesn't have a cream taste and will moisturize your lips, but I don't think it will make your pout appear plump - just nourished. I suppose applying it won't hurt, but I prefer a heavy-duty lip balm. While this water-in-oil emulsion is meant for delicate areas, you can apply this cream anywhere for intense hydration. The packaging is compact and great for on-the-go and travel. 
      On the runway these urban modern Diorcamp boots are paired with an all-white look; donning white, framed glasses and a short feather-embellished anorak. Of course, I had to have these boots. I'm a big fan of the cargo-style and off-white is my go-to shade. When I opened the box to unveil these must-have Dior boots, I was surprised that they were rubber and had print along the sides. The print says CHRISTIAN DIOR PARIS and MAINTENIR LE DOUBLE LACAGE SERRE. There ya have it fashionable friends - double laces are on trend.. There is also a bee printed at the back to arouse curiosity and a black star on the sole. These rubber boots have a reinforced neoprene sock for comfort and of course, can be worn in the rain. I initially thought the Diorcamp boots were your average, cargo-stye - NOPE! I'm thrilled to don these unexpected, statement rubber boots. One of my new favorites - Baum Und Pferdgarten, one of the leading Danish fashion houses. The collections are colorful and fun. I saw this Baum Und Pferdgarten Cassiopeia knitted sweater on the runway and patiently waited for it to become available online. This slightly cropped chunky knit has a round neckline, dropped shoulders and contrasting print that says LET ME DANCE. Every few seasons, I latch on to a new designer and Dior has been my favorite for a while now. I LOVE this Dior off-white, embroidered camouflage saddle bag. This bag design is synonymous with the brand and while the saddle bag shape remains the same, each season this style is reinvented. I'm obsessed with camouflage, off-white and well.. this is a match made in b.a.gorgie heaven. Oh Dior - I'm so obsessed with Dior! The latest J'adior cotton oblique bracelet set in my collection is black and white. These bracelet sets are perfect for layering. I like to wear one cotton set, along with a delicate palladium finished bracelet and beaded bracelet. I was recently shopping in SOHO, NY. After Dior I decided to give the AMEX a break. Until this Balenciaga Ville xxs top handle handbag begged me to take it home. I wouldn't consider myself a Balenciaga fan, but this mini bag was just too perfect. I love the pale pink shade and contrasting white Balenciaga print. As I'm writing this My Must Haves post, I'm realizing that I'm into clothes and accessories with words printed on it - The boots, sweater and bag. Hmm.. didn't even notice that was a trend in my Spring collection till now. While I often stray from my Fendi obsession, I always come back. These Fendi sunglasses have a gold-toned frame, pink lenses and the iconic mirror-effect Pequin motif. This sporty style is modern and unique to my sunglasses collection. 
DiorByDior pink gold sunglasses, Hip Chik LOVED jacket, Danielle Guizio sweatpants, Versace socks, Balenciaga Triple S sneakers, Christian Dior green camouflage embroidered book tote 
I'm always on the prowl for a new lip treatment, especially one that boasts plumping qualities. The Nurse Jamie NuLips RX duo isn't a lip plumping regiment, but does promote healthy, nourished lips; which will make your pout appear fuller. Oh and the all natural lip balm contains the famed Hyaluronic Acid - don't get caught up in the Hyaluronic hype. Everything contains this "magical" ingredient. The balm does however contain beneficial oils - this is essential in a nourishing lip balm.
I really like the Nurse Jamie Anti-Microbial Silicone Lip Brush. It's soft and induces circulation in your lips. It's not brittle enough to remove dry skin - you're gonna need a proper exfoliator for that. Albeit, the soft bristles will give you a gentle lip massage. The lip-shaped, silicone lip brush has a handle for easy use, that also has a suction cup - In case you wanna stick it to the lip balm pot, your mirror or fridge?! This lip balm and lip brush duo is relatively small and great for travel. My entire body dries out on planes and in hotels, so I tend to overdose on lip balm.
The Nurse Jamie NuLips RX Balm is all natural, petroleum free and contains beneficial oils to promote healthy, soft lips - Beeswax, Shea Butter and Almond Oil - to name a few. The balm has a thick, wax-like appearance and feel. The NuLips balm reacts to the heat from your lips and swiftly melts into an oily texture. The scent is sweet and light. My only complaint is the pot. I prefer lip products in a tube, so I don't have to dip my fingers in the product. Is this a must-have duo? Umm.. No. There are better exfoliating lip treatments and this one is too gentle for me. I highly suggest using your toothbrush to exfoliate your lips. That being said, this NuLips balm will not go to waste and the gentle anti-microbial silicone lip brush has earned a spot in my travel cosmetic bag.
While perusing the Nurse Jamie line-up, I decided to give the NuVibe RX Amethyst Massaging Beauty Tool a try. I'm seeing a lot of facial massage devices on Instagram and being a beginner, I went with the first tool to pop up on my screen. I should know better!
This facial massaging tool utilizes gentle (emphasis on the gentle) sonic vibration to promote good circulation. Essentially, this is what most facial massage tools promote - circulation, anti-bloat and an overall youthful appearance. The tool heads are usually a stone or metal. This Nurse Jamie beauty tool has a slim design and an Amethyst stone - my birth stone. At first, I loved this tool. I used it morning and night for a week and although I didn't see a major change in my skin, I enjoyed the gentle massage. I would have given this beauty tool a good grade, but then I found a better facial massager. I was pursuing the Goop site and purchased the Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar..
This 24kt gold sculpting bar is a game changer! I use this beauty tool twice a day for about 8 minutes. I start with my cheeks, massage my nose, between the brows, upwards along my chin and then my neck. Always massage upwards and outwards. It's super relaxing and I've noticed a HUGE change in my skin. Especially when my face is a little bloated (too much wine and salt). This facial massager de-bloats and really does give you a more youthful appearance. Aside from Rosacea, I have clear skin and as long as my Rosacea doesn't flare-up, I don't even need foundation. BUT, this 24kt gold beauty tool has taken my skin to a new level of looking refreshed. This tool has a permanent spot in my beauty routine.
To compare the two - The design of the Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar is more suitable for massaging the face and neck. The bar glides along your skin with ease and allows you to cover a larger area when you massage upwards and outwards. The Nurse Jamie NuVibe Rx Amethyst stone is clearly a different shape and roughly the same size in diameter, but doesn't have the same effect as the gold bar. Contrary to what people say - shape and size do matter! Vibration strength is super important and the Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar wins this category by a landslide. The gold sculpting bar gives you an intense vibrating facial massage, while the NuVibe pales in comparison. The Jillian Dempsey tool is slightly heavier and has a sleek design. The bar remains cold longer then the Amethyst stone and is more comfortable when massaging your neck and chin. It is however more expensive, BUT appears to be of better quality. The Nurse Jamie NuVibe Rx retails for $95 and the Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar retails for $195. Trust me, the extra $100 is worth it! 
Chloé sunglasses, For Love and Lemons Mademoiselle Popover Sweater, Danielle Guizio sweatpants, Louis Vuitton backpack, Versace socks, Yeezy season 6 stretch ankle boots 
      I am obsessed with this French, ready-to-wear label - Jacquemus. While this brand has been around a decade, it was Le Chiquito mini bag that caught my attention a few years ago. I wanted the tiny bag, but was unable to procure it. I abandoned the mission and only recently came back to the beloved Jacquemus brand. The Jacquemus Fall/Winter 2020 show was chic and modern. The muted shades are minimal and the silhouettes accentuate your assets. This collection is not for the body conscious kind. While this is a Fall/Winter collection, the muted shades and barely there styles are more suited for a resort or Summer collection. Pictured here is the famous Le Chiquito mini bag. I kinda still want one, but the limited space is an issue for me. This mini bag dons the signature gold-toned Jacquemus logo and contrast stitching details. I LOVE this impractical little handbag. The Jacquemus linen-blend mini halter dress is one of a few dresses I love from this collection. The neutral shade is calming and the draped detailing is faltering. This style is sexy-chic. I am a self-proclaimed sunglasses junkie! These Jacquemus Les Carrees sunglasses are a unique addition to my vast collection. The oversized square silhouette and transparent detail has a modern vibe. there are two sunglasses with this boxy silhouette - the other has a linen trim detail. Les Valerie Hautes sandals are gorgeous. the contrast sticking and linen is coherent with the collection. The square toe is on-trend and the geometric heel is anything but boring. Unfortunately, the smallest size is a 6 and I'm a 5.5 sandal. Another unfortunate moment for me is how much I'm obsessed with the knit bra and cropped sweater look - Imma have to starve myself for a week to don this sexy style. Maybe I could get away with Spanx and a high-waisted skirt?! This cropped cardigan is a Alzou Mohair-blend and was presented over a Valensole knit beta top. Both are available in neutral, white and grey. LOVE! The Abi cutout ribbed-knit jersey leggings are unique and would pair nicely with the Les Valerie Hautes sandals. Lace-up sandals are on trend and the cutout hem on these leggings allows for the laces to be showcased. This is a must-have modern style. I was fortunate to snag a few Jacquemus items from the Moda Operandi trunk show. I started the shopping spree with ten items in my cart, but narrowed the lot down to a velvet cropped sweater, leggings (pictured here), oversized sunglasses and a puffer jacket. My Jacquemus purchase is due to arrive between June 30th and October 15th - I'm so excited! 
I celebrated my 40th birthday yesterday. It seems like forever to some, but time has gone by so fast - especially the good moments. I don't feel old and thanks to botox, I don't look old either! Yesterday was the perfect 40th birthday celebration. Thank you Teddy for enduring another photo shoot. You're a super star poodle model.
I was not aware of most of these 1980 facts, but in all fairness, I was a baby! I'm a little disapointed in the "famous people born". Was hoping for someone with more depth. I suppose Ryan Gosling is ok - Who doesn't love The Notebook?! I can't believe Post-It Notes were invented in 1980 - I love them! I'm one of those old people that refuses to keep notes on my iPhone and sticks pastel-shades of Post-It Notes everywhere.
My little dog model went to doggy daycare for the first time yesterday. I spent my birthday lunch watching him on the daycare webcam. He sat in the corner and closely observed the regulars. I'm sure he was overwhelmed and hope he gets comfortable at daycare in the near future.. By the time we did this birthday photo shoot, he was exhausted.
Thank you Shai for the lovely flowers and Limerick poem. It reads..
This Urban Stem bouquet is called the Limerick - hence the humorous poem!
I purchased my Forty AF t-shirt and Hello 40 socks from Etsy. I frequent this site for celebratory products. The apparel is good quality and inexpensive. There's also a wide variety of items for every occasion.
Urban Stems is my go-to online flower delivery company. Thank you husbano for the Metropolitan bouquet and your kind words. Oh and thank you Teddy - I love that you singed the card by yourself!
My favorite - a Dior box. I LOVE my new kicks. They're a step down from the oversized "dad shoe", but still sporty. These Dior sneakers are super light and super white (wish me luck keeping them that way).
My birthday celebration ended with famous Georgetown Cupcakes - delicious! I could barely eat one, cause they're so sweet. It was great day - Bindass for lunch and cupcakes for dinner.
Here we are dancing to The Git Up. Thank you husbano for the perfect birthday. I plan on celebrating all week and can't wait to see what else you have planned.. 
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