      My usual Must-Haves list is comprised of designer clothing and accessories that I have-to-have or am lusting over and can't afford. These days, the must-have items on my list are necessary beauty products during a pandemic. Never thought I'd say that! I'm sensitive to scents and hate the smell of hand sanitizer, but it's a necessary product to have on hand! I was so happy when NCLA Beauty launched a small lineup of Hands Clean sanitizer available in lavender, eucalyptus, watermelon and unscented. You can pre-order these little bottles of hand sanitizer at Revolve. I got lip fillers (and botox) a few days before the stay-at-home order came into effect AND my lips are perfect - BUT, now I have to wear a face mask. Enough said! I'm happy to see many of my favorite clothing brands producing face masks - I know the quality is there. I pre-ordered three cute GRLFRND masks at Revolve. The best place to order cheeky, cloth face masks is Etsy. You can also order personalized masks. If you want a hefty mask with replaceable filters, there are many online stores to choose from. I believe face masks will be around for a while and everyone should have at least one. It seems like many people are struggling with DIY beauty these days. Most rely on hair, nail and tanning salons to keep their beauty in check. Fortunately, I prefer to do my own gel nails and apply self tanner at home. I do however get my hair colored every three weeks and had to learn a new skill during these unusual times. dpHUE is my go-to hair coloring brand. The dpHUE root touch-up kit is easy to use, the color is perfect and the solution completely covers roots (even greys). Paired with the dpHUE gloss, this color touch-up duo is perfect for someone who requires single process coloring. I posted a lengthy DIY root touch-up video a few weeks ago - Scroll down a little.. Another necessary step in most beauty routines is waxing or threading the upper lip and eyebrows. The Tweezerman Smooth Finish Facial Hair Remover is an excellent DIY threading tool. You simply twist the handles, while gliding the coil spring along your upper-lip. It's painful, but does a great job removing unwanted hair. You can purchase this Tweezerman beauty tool at Sephora. Being able to do your own nails is a necessary skill to have. You never know when your go-to salons (and the entire world) may close for months! I was introduced to gel nails a few years ago and went to the salon four times before deciding to do it myself. I purchased gel polish in a variety of nude shades, base and top coat polish, remover, foils and an LED nail lamp. My go-to brand is CND. I recently discovered Static Nails. The lineup includes reusable press-on nails (I gotta try these) and long-wear polish that promises to last up to 10 days. The shades are gorgeous and it seems like either one would be easier than applying/removing gel polish. Of course, I have a few items in my cart! Admittedly, I like tanning beds. BUT, the last place I wanna be is baking inside a horizontal UV radiation bed that someone else just laid in. SO, I'm going back to DIY self-tanning. My go-to brand is St. Tropez. I've been using it for years. BUT, as of late, I'm experimenting with new brands. I'm going to apply Luna Bronze Self Tanning Lotion later today.. This process takes a little practice. I suggest purchasing a light color, a tanning mitt and body exfoliator. Read the instructions carefully and stay away from water and excessive activities that will make you sweat for at least 6 hours. Applying self-tanner is a quick way to enhance your stay-at-home skin. On the bright side, if you screw it up, nobody will see it - Unless you post pics. 
I was challenged to a Bug Out bag competition. I had thirty minutes to gather all of the items I deemed essential if I had to leave my home and go into survival mode. These items should be of the utmost importance. I didn't include self-defense items or proper food, but I think I did a great job for someone who hasn't been preparing for an apocalypse. I hope you appreciate that I included prosecco, coconut water and avocados. AND, there's a color theme! For those of you who aren't familiar with a Bug Out bag - It's a bag (usually a sturdy backpack) containing essential items for survival. It typically has camping gear, non-perishable food, a change of clothes and self-defense items. You can buy pre-prepared Bug Out bags for up to thousands of dollars. Your Bug Out bag needs depend on your level of paranoia! I do think having a Bug Out bag for your pet is smart. Often, emergencies happen and we forget to pack essentials for our pets. My Toy Poodle, Teddy, has an extensive Bug Out bag that we can grab-and-go.. 
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. 
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 
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.. 
|
