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Adidas X Missoni Is Low-Key Luxe for Your Workout 8 Sep 2019 7:42 PM (5 years ago)

Athleticwear collaborations are all the rage these days. I've found it hard to decide which are worth the investment and which are pure novelty. Until I was breezing through the September issue of Shape magazine and was stopped in my tracks by a full-page image of the multicolor Ultraboost Clima from the new Adidas X Missoni collab. That’s one gorgeous athletic shoe. Yep, this is the collab to care about.

The standout multicolor sneakers are conveniently sold out just about everywhere. I did find some still in stock over at Saks. Keep in mind that these shoes are in men’s sizes, so be sure to consult the size guide to get the right fit. These shoes are also available in more subdued black knit with white and red accents, and white knit with black and red accents, both of which are still available in a range of sizes at $250 over at Bandier.


→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni Ultraboost Clima Sneakers, $250.00, at saks.com; shipping and returns are free.


The clothing options are also available in either multicolor or black and white, both arranged in that signature Missoni knit pattern. I’m particularly taken with the multicolor shorts, which are constructed from a slub jersey that looks a lot like a true knit up close. Each pattern also comes in a tee shirt and sweatshirt.


→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni Performance M20 Short in Multicolor, $83.30 (was $119.00), at sneakersnstuff.com.

→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni Runners Unite Tee in Multicolor, $98.00 (was $140.00), at fwrd.com.

→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni PHX Jacket in Multicolor, $210.00 (was $300.00), at fwrd.com.



→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni Performance M20 Short in Black/ White, $59.50 (was $119.00), at sneakersnstuff.com.

→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni Runners Unite Tee in Black/ White, $140.00, at modaoperandi.com.

→ Buy the Adidas X Missoni PHX Jacket in Black/ White, $259.97 (was $305.00), at bandier.com [sizes XS, S] or $114.24 (was $379.44), at coggles.com [size L].

Review: Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution 2 Sep 2019 8:08 PM (5 years ago)

You know that saying “you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone?” This is my skincare equivalent. It really works, and I learned the hard way that the fact that it works is kind of rare.

About a year and a half ago I developed melasma on my forehead as a result of changing birth control pills. Coincidentally, around the same, time the PR team at Kiehl’s sent me a review sample of their big new thing – Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution, a dark spot reducing serum. Nice timing.

Until that point I had never had need of a dark spot reducing product and thus had no preconceived notions about the spot reducing product industry. Contrast this with, say, the cellulite reducing product industry, which I’ve found over the course of the last 15 years to be a complete racket. I assumed the new Kiehl’s product would accomplish its main purpose, reducing the appearance of the icky dark blob on my forehead.

I dutifully applied the Clearly Corrective serum twice daily as a first step in my skincare routine. By the time I finished the bottle, even my (non-Kiehl’s-affiliated) esthetician was proclaiming me melasma-free. My problem had been solved. So, why didn’t I review the product then? I didn’t find it particularly special, other than the fact that it worked. This, to me, was like saying a new moisturizer generally moisturized my skin, but I didn’t find it otherwise remarkable – no real reason to expound on that revelation in words. Little did I know…

Fast forward a few months. My friendly local melasma patch was back in action. Armed with my newly formed, and completely mistaken, belief that dark spot correctors were kind of like moisturizers – generally useful for their main purpose – I purchased a fun new product from the Sephora website. Four months later I was no lighter in the spot department. I purchased another (quite expensive) Sephora best seller. Six months later, still no luck. Evidently a good dark spot reducer is hard to find.

So, that brings me to the moral of my story. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution works. Well, at least I’ve found that it works quite well on hormone-induced melasma. And now, a year and half later and much smarter, I’ve just ordered my second bottle.

→ Buy the Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution, $52.00 - $135.00, at kiehls.com.


Editor's note: This post originally appeared on January 23, 2013; it has since been updated.

These Are Ulta’s Best-Selling Concealers Right Now 20 Aug 2019 8:58 PM (5 years ago)

If I had to guess, I’d say concealer is the one makeup product that everyone uses from time to time. Even if you hate foundation and think mascara is a torture device, it’s hard to resist the allure of being able to downplay under eye circles or cover up a rogue blemish, right?

The trick is finding your personal best concealer. What works on one person could be totally wrong for the next. But, if you ask enough people what their top pick concealer is, the wisdom of the crowd will point you in the right direction. With that in mind, these are the five best concealers at Ulta right now…

This Ulta-exclusive hydrating wand concealer can double as a highlighter or contour, depending on which of the fourteen shades you pick. Users praise its long-lasting formula and smooth application, with one verified buyer saying “…it looks totally natural. It’s literally magic in a tube.”




→ Buy the Tarte Double Duty Beauty Shape Tape Contour Concealer, $27.00, at ulta.com.


My personal favorite of the best-selling bunch is this NARS concealer. It comes in twenty-two shades, each with specific undertones called out in the color description, which helps to find the exact right color. Ulta users rave about the ability to find the right shade for a range of skin tones that, unfortunately, aren’t normally serviced by cosmetics companies, like very fair with neutral undertones and dark cacao with golden brown undertones.




→ Buy the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, $30.00, at ulta.com.


For the multitasking makeup maven, there’s this PÜR double-duty foundation and concealer, which comes in a whopping forty colors ranging from palest porcelain to rich espresso.




→ Buy the PÜR 4-In-1 Love Your Selfie Longwear Foundation & Concealer, $36.00, at ulta.com.


If under eye shadows top your list of woes, this It Cosmetics best-seller might be your holy grail. It contains anti-aging ingredients and claims to be crease-free, and it has 3,645 reviews with an average 4.3 out of 5-stars rating.




→ Buy the It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer, $26.00, at ulta.com.


This Too Faced concealer has only been around a few years, but that hasn’t stopped it from racking up hundreds of reviews on Ulta.com. I get the feeling it’s one of the must-try new concealers. It comes in thirty-five shades and gets high marks for being blendable and natural looking.




→ Buy the Too Faced Born This Way Concealer, $29.00, at ulta.com.



So, what do you think about the wisdom of the masses? Do you see a new favorite in this rundown of the best concealers at Ulta right now? Are you inspired to give a new concealer a try? I think I'm going to give the Tarte Shape Tape a whirl. It has amazing reviews, and I'm always intrigued by exclusive products.


This post was originally published on 9/12/17; it has since been updated.

FOUND: ‘90s Boots, Upgraded 18 Aug 2019 5:43 PM (5 years ago)

I’m pretty sure that every person who was old enough to buy their own clothes in the ‘90s owned a pair of lace-up boots. Maybe your ‘90s boots were classic Docs, the most popular choice. Or maybe, like me, you jumped on the bandwagon late enough to snag a stylish spin-off. My boots were luggage brown with bottle green laces, courtesy of a much-cooler-than-now J.Crew. They weighed a ton, and I swear I lost five pounds the first semester I owned them thanks to a thrice weekly class on the fourth floor of a building with too few elevators. Such good memories.

With the fashion world’s recent infatuation with the ‘90s vibe, lace-up boots were bound to come back. But, would they come back in a good way, like satin slip dresses, or a bad way, a la ultra-low-rise denim? I’m happy to report that ‘90s-style boots are back in the best way possible: with a luxe look and some modern upgrades.

These brand new Laced Boots from Theory are available in black, dark brown, and beige leather. Each shade comes with both flat tonal and white waxed cotton laces, so you can decide just how strictly you want to adhere to the throwback style. And once you get them laced perfectly, you can pull them on and off with ease using the nicely upgraded internal covered zipper. So happy to see that the several-minutes commitment to lacing boots did not survive the ‘90s. Other luxe details of these Italian-made beauties include kid leather lining and a barrel-dyed smooth calf leather upper with just a tinge of shine.

→ Buy the Theory Laced Boots, $495.00, at theory.com; shipping and returns are free.

50% Off at Banana Republic and How to Use It 17 Aug 2019 9:16 PM (5 years ago)

The Banana Republic Friends and Family Sale is in full swing through Monday, August 19. The on-site promotion is 40%, with exclusions. But, if you know the magic code, you can actually get a full 50% off with no BR merchandise exclusions. The trick? Use code BRFAMILY to get the bonus deal. If you order $100 or more, also use code BRSHIP for free 3-5 day shipping.

Not sure how to best make use of this limited time only promo code? These five timeless minimalist picks are all sure things, especially at this great sale price.

The new Japan Exclusives collection at Banana Republic is fantastic. These are easily some of my favorite BR pieces in years. But, caution: they were sized for the Japanese market, so you may need to size up. This high-neck black blouse is my absolute favorite.




→ Buy the Banana Republic Japan Exclusive Mock-Neck Blouse, $44.75 with code (was $89.50), at bananarepublic.com.


This classic silk cashmere sweater is a closet staple in neutral shades, but in this luscious kelly green color it becomes a fall standout. It’s available in nine other colors, if green isn’t your thing.




→ Buy the Banana Republic Silk Cashmere Crew-Neck Sweater, $39.75 with code (was $79.50), at bananarepublic.com.


This luxe cashmere cardigan is the perfect layering piece for long haul flights. It’s comfy enough for a 15-hour flight and will keep you warm when the aggressive cabin air kicks in. But, unlike a worn-in hoodie, it’s also super chic and will keep you looking worthy of an upgrade.




→ Buy the Banana Republic Cashmere Long Cardigan Sweater, $114.50 with code (was $229.00), at bananarepublic.com.


My all-time favorite white button-down shirt was a BR find from more than a decade ago. I finally had to retire it, and I keep meaning to replace it. This oxford shirt is a very close dupe, and the 4.5-start rating with 78 reviews makes me think it’s just as fabulous as my original.




→ But the Banana Republic Quinn Straight-Fix Oxford Shirt, $34.00 with code (was $68.00), at bananarepublic.com.


Back on the topic of travel dressing…these Tencel joggers nicely balance comfort and a chic vibe, plus they’d look great with the cashmere cardigan above.




→ Buy the Banana Republic Tencel Utility Jogger Pant, $44.75 with code (was $89.50), at bananarepublic.com.

Under $100: Coach Summer Sale Finds 16 Jun 2019 7:48 PM (5 years ago)

The Coach Summer Sale just got better. All the remaining sale items are now marked a whopping 50% off original prices. There is still a lot left to choose from, including shoes, clothing, accessories, and a ton of handbags.

The best part of the new reductions is that there are now a bunch of fabulous finds for under $100. A handful of my favorites are here. Plus, don’t forget that all orders within the continental US come with free shipping and returns if you use code FREESHIP!


I’ve never thought of Coach as an edgy, rock-and-roll kind of label, but they are full of surprises lately. Their recent collab with iconic LA nightclub The Viper Room resulted in some fun pieces, including this now sale-priced pouch.




→ Buy the Coach Viper Room Turnlock Pouch 26, $32.00 (was $65.00), at coach.com.


The best-selling, super versatile wristlet gets an update with pebble leather and smooth rivets. It’s available in white, black, and burgundy at this price.




→ Buy the Coach Small Wristlet With Rivets, $42.00 (was $85.00), at coach.com.


Your new favorite summer sandals just got marked way down.




→ Buy the Coach Jenna Sandal, $62.00 (was $125.00), at coach.com.


This durable leather cross-body is a perfect travel companion thanks to the roomy interior, zip top, and comfortable crossbody strap.




→ Buy the Coach Kitt Messenger Crossbody, $75.00 (was $150.00), at coach.com.


The art deco quilting on this nappa leather wallet gives off an upscale vibe, and the compact square size will fit in all but the smallest handbags.




→ Buy the Coach Small Zip Around Wallet, $75.00 (was $150.00), at coach.com.


This pretty dusty blue shade feel like summer in purse form.




→ Buy the Coach Turnlock Crossbody, $88.00 (was $175.00), at coach.com.


Coach’s driving mocs are probably my all-time favorite Coach product. The colors are gorgeous, and the silhouette is classic elegance.




→ Buy the Coach Crosby Driver, $98.00 (was $195.00), at coach.com.


Here’s that updated rivet look again, this time in a very cool shoulder bag-clutch-wristlet hybrid.




→ Buy the Coach Sadie Crossbody Clutch, $98.00 (was $195.00), at coach.com.

3 Sale-Priced Club Monaco Sweaters to Buy During the Heat Wave 9 Jun 2019 9:21 PM (5 years ago)

It’s hot here in Northern California. Like, really hot. There’s nothing like a heat wave to make me want to buy cashmere sweaters. You too? That must be because we both know that the best time to score a big deal on cozy winter clothes is during the hottest part of the summer.

Club Monaco is currently offering an extra 30% off already reduced sale items. That means some of their most interesting sweaters are available at a fraction of regular price. I sorted through all the sale-priced goods and found three sweaters – two cashmere and one wool – that are gorgeous, timeless, and marked way down. Check out my fabulous finds:

This 100% cashmere sweater pairs a slim fit with a draped cowl neck for a dramatic silhouette. It would look sleek with trousers or a pencil skirt for work, but it would also pair nicely with slouchy cropped denim for the weekend. It’s available in heather grey (shown) and cream.




→ Buy the Club Monaco Amarynth Cashmere Sweater, 139.30 (was $249.00), at clubmonaco.com.


Have you seen the television adaptation of A Discovery of Witches? I binged the entire first season on the way to London a couple weeks ago. Then I re-binged the whole thing on the way home. On top of the engrossing story and excellent casting (hello, Matthew Goode), the series boasts seriously gorgeous costume design that revolves around this exact color of marine blue. And now I’m obsessed with having a closet full of this shade. This merino wool sweater is also available in a charming light heather grey, if you haven’t yet jumped on the marine blue bandwagon.




→ Buy the Club Monaco Mogan Sweater, $69.30 (was $155.00), at clubmonaco.com.


A previous season’s version of this exact cashmere wrap sweater has been my go-to travel sweater for years. It strikes the just-right balance between luxurious and cozy, perfect for when you want to be comfy but look worthy of a seat upgrade. It’s available in pale oatmeal (shown), light heather grey, and juniper at this sale price.




→ Buy the Club Monaco Cristina Cashmere Cardigan, $111.30 (was $249.50), at clubmonaco.com.

Loving This Week: Brightening Cleanser + White Loafers 2 Jun 2019 8:32 PM (5 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping picks for the week…

1. 3X1 + Jason Wu Paneled High-Rise Slim-Leg Jeans, $295.00
I’ve had these new jeans from the 3X1 + Jason Wu collab out on Rent the Runway Unlimited for the last month (use my link to try RTR for $59 for the first month, regularly $159). I can’t give them back. They just look so good! So often these super high-fashion collaborations look great on models, but horrible in real life. These jeans look just as fabulous on a real-world body as they do in this image. I’m going to end up buying them.

2. Everlane Day Loafer, $155.00
White loafers are the perfect spring-to-summer transition shoe. They are light and airy, but with flat shoe practicality. They toughen up summer florals and make denim and a crisp white tee look a bit more polished. Just remember to waterproof before wearing.

3. J.Crew Factory Featherweight Slub Cotton Tee, 3 for $35.00 (was $19.50)
Speaking of crisp white tees… this is my current favorite basic tee shirt. I love the worn-in look and slouchy silhouette. Plus, if you catch them on sale the price is low enough to buy fresh tees every year or two so that you can keep that crisp white tee look.

4. Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser, $34.00
This multi-purpose cleanser, makeup remover, and mask from green beauty line Indie Lee is the real deal. I tried a sample packet over the weekend while on a quick trip to So Cal. It legitimately made my skin glow after just one use, even after 48 hours of poor eating and too little sleep.

5. Marc Jacobs Redux Grunge East/West Tote, $134.98 (was $225.00)
This tote, available in three different botanical wallpaper prints, is part of last season’s 25th anniversary celebration of the iconic 1993 Marc Jacobs for Perry Ellis grunge collection. It’s a fun throwback wrapped in a super useful tote bag design. Ideal for schlepping your stuff back and forth to work.

Loving This Week: Magic Toothpaste + Minimalist Sneakers 27 May 2019 5:53 PM (5 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Sarto by Franco Sarto Gannon Slingback Buckle Sandal, $79.95
The oversized square buckles give these black leather sandals a vaguely Marni-esque vibe. Except at literally 1/10 of the price.

2. COS Slim Leg Jeans, $115.00
The slim, cropped fit is the on-trend look for summer and you’ll be sure to get the perfect abbreviated fit as these jeans are available in 28 and 30 lengths. Bonus: this washed black rinse is still pretty unique amongst the more affordable denim labels.

3. Herbivore Emerald Hemp Seed Deep Moisture Glow Oil, $48.00
I’ve been very happy with Eve Lom facial oil for the past few months, but my bottle is nearly empty and I’m itching to try something new. This blend of hemp seed oil, squalene, and meadowfoam seed oil is antioxidant and amino acid-rich to boost glow and nourish the skin. With 227 reviews and nearly perfect 5-star rating, this oil is worth a try.

4. Apagard Premio Toothpaste, $16.24
Ok, so maybe “magic” is taking it a bit far. But, this toothpaste is completely unlike anything else I’ve ever used. It delivers results you can see. After hearing a few different Japan-based expats rave about this re-mineralizing toothpaste, I gave it a try. It really does what all the fans say it does. I’ve been using it about six weeks and the translucent edges have nearly vanished from my teeth and all my teeth are noticeably whiter. Fair warning: it’s a Japanese product and all of the instructions are written in Japanese, but nothing a run through Google Translate can’t take care of.

5. Veja V-10 Leather Low-Top Sneakers, $150.00
Why pay $150 for simple white leather sneakers? Aside from the stylish minimalist look that really is hard to find in a sneaker these days, Veja is a brand you can feel good about supporting. The French label is committed to ecologically responsible, fair trade practices that support local small businesses in Brazil and France. They are completely transparent about their sourcing and offer a fabulous range of vintage-inspired sneakers with both leather and vegan options. Shiny, happy shopping feels.

Loving This Week: A New Fresh Sleeping Mask + Cowshed Cuticle Oil 4 May 2019 4:43 PM (5 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Anine Bing City Love Sweatshirt, $169.00
This slouchy sweatshirt from LA-favorite label Anine Bing has the just-right level of distressing in the screen-print city names and faded black color. Wear it with faux leather leggings for that signature Anine Bing look.

2. Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask, $50.00
I’m already a big fan of the Fresh Rose line. The Deep Hydration Facial Toner is a twice-daily must-have, while the Rose Face Mask is in regular rotation as a weekly treatment. This new sleeping mask is sure to be a new favorite.

3. Everlane The Day Loafer, $155.00
The classic loafer shape gets added comfort with the addition of ballet slipper details like an elasticized back and cushioned insole. These 100% Italian leather loafers, made in Santa Maria a Monte, Italy, are available in five colors at a steal at this price.

4. Cowshed Apricot Nourishing Cuticle Oil, $15.00
My cuticles are not taking well to the changing weather. I hear this Cowshed oil will make quick work of the snags. It is paraben- and sulphate-free, suitable for vegetarians, and infused with bergamot and palmarosa for a light scent experience.

5. Rag & Bone Buckley Crop Chino Pants, $168.75 (was $225.00)
These stretch twill pants have a high waist, cropped hem, and slim fit that can easily get dressed up for a casual office. Just add blazer. Plus, that sale price. They’re also available in black at this price.

Loving This Week: High-Potency Retinol + A Pretty Blue Sweater 24 Feb 2019 6:32 PM (5 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Allsaints Adalee Wool Blend Coat, $525.00
Typically, February wouldn’t be the time to contemplate buying a new winter coat, but mother nature seems to have plans for a late winter this year. This oatmeal-brown wool coat is a fetching blend of classic fabric and modern oversized cut. It’s bold, but in a refined way.

2. Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinol Serum, $85.00
Like many people, I’ve been using Sunday Riley’s Luna Retinol Night Sleeping Oil for years. It’s amazingly the only retinol I’ve used that is both effective and completely irritation-free. Word is this new serum is just as easy on the skin, but with a whopping 6.5% retinoid that delivers visible results in just 28 days. Click through to see the pics over at Sephora, and read the 42 raving five-star reviews. I’ll be picking this up in my next Sephora order.

3. Mother Insider Ankle Crop Bootcut Jeans, $275.00
I didn’t think I’d being considering jumping back on the bootcut jeans bandwagon any time soon. I survived the early aughts bootcut obsession just fine, and my wardrobe has nicely recovered. But, these new Mother jeans have a cool silhouette with the high rise and cropped length. I’m willing to overlook the bootcut name.

4. Clare V. Midi Sac Crossbody Bag, $325.00
Cute. Vaguely preppy, but with downtown edge. The perfect size for travel, or a daytime outing to the museum or farmers market. This new Clare V. crossbody checks all the boxes.

5. COS Mix-Rib Jumper, $115.00
I’ve bought four COS sweaters since December. It sounds like I’m in a rut, but they just keep turning out gorgeous new sweaters that have fresh looks you can’t find anywhere else. This particular cotton-wool knit has contrasting ribbed textures and moved-back shoulder seams, which create a lot of visual interest. And the prices at COS are amazing. I maintain my position that COS makes the best value minimalist clothes on the market.

Loving This Week: Fenty’s New Concealer + Everlane Rain Boots 6 Feb 2019 7:22 PM (5 years ago)

Check out this week’s favorite online shopping picks…

1. Minimarket Sweater Pompidou, $142.00
A cool, interesting cut plus a rich mustard color equals a great find from Swedish label Minimarket.

2. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer, $26.00
I’ve heard nothing but raves about this new concealer, which comes in an astonishing 40 colors. There is truly a shade for every skin tone, and the coverage is outstanding.

3. Byredo Mojave Ghost Eau de Parfum, $165.00 - $250.00
I recently had an hour to kill in the international terminal at ARN, which I spent smelling literally every Byredo scent in the duty free. Twice. Mojave Ghost is definitely my favorite. The combination of sandalwood and magnolia is intoxicating.

4. Everlane The Rain Boot, $75.00
It’s been raining a lot here in the San Francisco area, giving me new appreciation for waterproof shoes. These new Everlane rain boots landed just in time. They’re available in five colors, including this stone/ black combo.

5. Sandqvist Berit Shoulder Bag, $168.00
This beautifully colored crossbody handbag has a removable strap, so it can double as a clutch.

Loving This Week: Cute Ugly Boots + No-Smudge Mascara 15 Jan 2019 7:27 PM (5 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for this week…

1. Everlane The Bralette, $24.00
Did you hear the good news? Slow fashion powerhouse Everlane now makes perfectly minimalist cotton-blend bralettes. Like all Everlane pieces, these bralettes are made from sustainable fabrics in ethical factories, with complete transparency. They’re available in five neutral shades, including this pale pink. And, unlike just about every other bra in existence, they are machine wash/ tumble dry. Just go ahead and buy all five colors of your new favorite bra right now.

2. Duckfeet Odense Boots, $288.00
This new-to-me Danish label makes absolutely adorable ugly shoes. You know what I mean. Their handmade leather shoes pair a rugged outdoorsy vibe with minimalist Danish design, and come in a range of rich colors that would make J.Crew jealous. They’ve been around since 1975, which is longer than I’ve been around, so I’m kind of bummed I’m just now finding out about them. These boots are super cute, come in seven colors, and have customers raving about their comfort and warmth. Sold.

3. Glossier Lash Slick Mascara, $16.00
Just another runaway success from Glossier. I tried this mascara for the first time this week. The lengthening formula is a little less dramatic than my usual mascara, but perfectly acceptable for daytime wear. What really won me over is the fact that this mascara dries in a flash and is 100% smudge proof. Even though I absentmindedly rub my eyes all day. Even though I wear a veritable oil slick of eye cream on the regular. Literally, zero smudges.

4. & Other Stories Cotton Button Up Shirt, $69.00
I bought this shirt in person at the & Other Stories store in NYC last month. It’s a smart closet staple that look great tucked in or out, and comes in the prettiest shade of marine blue.

5. J.Crew Short Sleeve Trench Dress, $198.00
My first thought when I stumbled across this J.Crew new arrival: “That looks just like something Duchess Meghan would wear.” Because she kind of did.

These Are the Internet’s Most Loved Hair Dryers 12 Jan 2019 4:01 PM (5 years ago)

I need a new hair dryer. The very expensive, very fabulous BioIonic I bought in grad school died a dramatic death several years ago, after more than ten years of faithful service. The blogger-freebie Conair I’ve been using the last few years in its place has got to the point where it doesn’t seem to be so much drying my hair as beating it into submission. I’ve got to do something.

So, I asked the internet. More precisely, I made the rounds to the major online stores where one might purchase a hair dryer and queried as to the best-selling hair dryer at that establishment. I’ve rounded up the results here. If you too are in need of a new hair dryer, this list is a good place to start. I’m sure the best hair dryer for sale online is in here somewhere because, for all of the important things the internet gets wrong, it tends to get shopping right.

Ulta
This new invention is part blow dryer, part styling tool. It’s designed to detangle, straighten, volumize, and dry all in one step. This best-seller uses ionic and ceramic technologies, and features three heat settings and a four-year manufacturer’s warranty.




→ Buy the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Hair Dryer, $59.99, at ulta.com.


Sephora, Best Buy, & Saks Fifth Avenue
Consider this the elephant in the room. The mega popular Dyson is the best-selling dryer at nearly a dozen online stores, so I picked these three as they show the crazy range of stores where Dyson reigns supreme. It’s an investment, but stores seem to be going out of their way to sweeten the deal.




→ Buy the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer, $399.00, at sephora.com; purchase the Supersonic Hair Dryer Stand at the same time and get 10% off both.

→ Buy the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer, $399.99, at bestbuy.com; 12-month financing available.

→ Buy the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer, $399.00, at saks.com; shipping is free with code FREESHIP.


Violet Grey & Macy’s
This best-seller boasts digital temperature control, which makes it unique amongst the dryers featured here. It offers five heat settings and two speed settings, as well as a volume booster switch and ionic/ ceramic technology.




→ Buy the T3 Cura Luxe Ionic Hair Dryer, $285.00, at macys.com.

→ Buy the T3 Cura Luxe Ionic Hair Dryer, $285.00, at violetgrey.com; interest-free financing available.


Target & JCPenney
I’m pretty sure this is the newer version of my now-discontinued Conair replacement dryer. It offers ceramic technology, three heat settings, two speed settings, and a cold shot button at a very affordable price. Reviewers rave about the great value.




→ Buy the Conair InfinitiPro Professional Hair Dryer in purple, $25.99, at target.com.

→ Buy the Conair InfinitiPro Professional Hair Dryer in orange, $39.99, at jcpenney.com.


Amazon
I’m not familiar with the Jinri label, but the wisdom of the Amazon crowd tends to be right-on. This best-selling dryer has forty-five perfect five-star reviews, nearly all of which are from Amazon “verified purchasers.” Reviewers talk about the light weight, comfortable handle, and super quick drying time. It uses ionic tourmaline technology and has three heat and two speed settings, as well as a cool shot button.




→ Buy the Jinri Professional Tourmaline Hair Dryer, $47.99, at amazon.com.

The 5 Best Things On Sale at Vince Right Now 9 Jan 2019 7:50 PM (5 years ago)

Do you love classic minimalist style and cozy knits with a light dusting of laid-back California vibes? Vince might just be your new dream brand. Unless, of course, you are already a huge fan like me. Either way, now is the time to snag a few deeply discounted Vince pieces, whether they’ll be your first purchases or just the latest in a long string of well-loved items.

The Vince online store just marked down lots of sweaters, pants, jeans, dresses, and more. Since the markdowns are fresh, there are still plenty of color options and sizes to choose from. Here are the five best pieces on sale at Vince right now, in my opinion.

This wool-cashmere blend funnel neck sweater features wide sleeves with a button-fastening detail. The slouchy fit and directional knit make for a modern silhouette, and it’s available in both this light heather grey and a beautiful deep indigo blue shade called “coastal.”




→ Buy the Vince Button Sleeve Funnel Neck Sweater, $219.00 (was $365.00), at vince.com; shipping and returns are free.


I’ve owned a few pair of Vince cotton pants over the years and they have been, without exception, closet workhorses. The tailored fit is dressy enough for a business casual office when paired with the right top, but the comfort level is 100% weekend. This utility style with its funky tie-waist is available in black and olive green.




→ Buy the Vince Utility Pant, $147.00 (was $245.00), at vince.com; shipping and returns are free.


Vince jeans have been right on trend for several seasons in a row. I haven’t purchased a pair yet, but I’m starting to think I’m behind the curve. These wide-leg flares take the latest denim trend and do it up luxe with a high rise and beautiful vintage blue wash.




→ Buy the Vince Wide Leg Flare Jeans, $165.00 (was $275.00), at vince.com; shipping and returns are free.


My all-time favorite knitwear pieces are a pair of slouchy, cropped Vince cashmere sweaters – one in black, one in charcoal – that I picked up on sale at least six or seven years ago. They’re still gorgeous. This panel crew reminds me a lot of those sweaters. It’s available in heather black, shown here, and dark blue.




→ Buy the Vince Overlap Panel Crew Sweater, $130.00 (was $325.00), at vince.com; shipping and returns are free.


Oooh, I do love a good cashmere sweater. This 100% cashmere turtleneck has a posh bishop-sleeve shape to go along with its luxurious construction. It’s available in heather cinder (shown here), biscuit beige, and coastal blue.




→ Buy the Vince Bishop Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater, $207.00 (was $345.00), at vince.com; shipping and returns are free.


Want more? Check out all of the sale-priced items over on the Vince website, or browse this hand-picked selection of marked-down Vince items from across the online shopping universe:

Loving This Week: a Block-Layout Travel Journal + Beige Loafers 8 Jan 2019 8:06 PM (5 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Theory Workwear Wrap Skirt, $375.00
This new arrival may be inspired by the workplace, but it will look just as great with dressed-down weekend separates. The overall look is minimalist, but with a kick.

2. MAC Plenty of Pout Plumping Lipgloss, $18.50
Following in the new mold of plumping glosses, this fresh MAC find uses ginger and hydrating oils to plump rather than harsh peppers.

3. COS Soft Loafers, $150.00
The silhouette is classic, and the light taupe color is the perfect shade of neutral beige – not too light, not too muddy.

4. Everlane The Form Bag, $235.00
Slow fashion label Everlane has done it again with this outstanding new handbag. It’s sleek, yet roomy – it can fit a 13 inch laptop horizontally – and comes in five richly pigmented shades.

5. MochiThings Simple Scrap Notebook v1, $13.26 (was $18.95)
I have a weakness for the page-after-page organizational goodness that is MochiThings. They have so many notebooks, journals, organizers, and accessories to choose from that it’s easy to get lost. After much searching I settled on this notebook, which features a magazine-inspired block layout design that I find appealing. It will be perfect as a travel journal.

25 Top Finds From The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale 27 Dec 2018 9:52 PM (6 years ago)

The holiday season is nearly over, but the sales are just getting started.

Nordstrom kicked off their amazing Half-Yearly sale this week and the discounts are deep. You can get up to 50% off a selection of over 2000 items. It's a bit overwhelming, really.

Rather than diving in head-first, why don't you sit back and browse this selection of 25 perfect sale finds that nicely combine a minimalist-leaning aesthetic with an excellent sale price. Here are our 25 favorite markdowns from the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale.

Top 5 Super Last Minute Insta-Gifts 21 Dec 2018 8:44 AM (6 years ago)

It’s nearly Christmas Eve. Inevitably some friend or relations will show up at your door, gift in hand, and you’ll have nothing to gift back. What’s a girl to do? Have your computer at the ready in the other room and pick one of these super quick, buy-and-print gifts for immediate gifting.

Perfect for men and women of any age, an Amazon gift card is always appropriate (a trade-off for not being super original). You can print instantly, deliver via Facebook, or email to your recipient with a click of your mouse. They even have super cool options like sending a customized Jib Jab video gift card with you and your friends or family in it!




→ Buy an Amazon.com gift card, any denomination, at amazon.com.


For the spa-lover, a Spa Finder gift card is a great instant gift option. Spa Finder lets you give the gift of spa services, yoga, fitness, or destination spa travel at 20,000 spas, yoga, pilates, and fitness studios worldwide with one gift card. You can either instantly print or email your gift card; your recipient gets to pick how and where to use it.




→ Buy a Spa Finder gift card, $25.00 - $1000.00, at spafinder.com.


For the fashionista in your life, a Nordstrom gift card is always appreciated. Instant gift cards are delivered by e-mail and can be redeemed online, in store, or by phone. You even get to pick from a collection of fun e-gift card designs to spice up your gift.




→ Buy a Nordstrom e-gift card, $25.00 - $1000.00, at nordstrom.com.


Sephora’s fully customizable e-gift cards are a must for beauty lovers. They are delivered instantly via email and can be redeemed either in-store or online. A great feature of this e-gift is that they are available in $10.00 amounts, which are perfect when you want to send just a little thinking-of-you style gift.




→ Buy a Sephora gift card, $10.00 - $500.00, at sephora.com.


If you’re trying to find a gift for someone who really needs a practical present, but you don’t want to go the cash route, a Target gift card is a smart option. This versatile gift can be delivered by email or text, and then redeemed for anything from groceries to, to electronics, to clothing in the recipient’s local Target store or at target.com. Similar to Sephora gift card, these e-cards come with choices of graphics are available in low-denomination options that make for great small gifts.




→ Buy a Target gift card, $5.00 - $200.00, at target.com.


Merry Christmas, everyone!

Editor's Note: This post originally appeared on December 24, 2012. It has since been updated.

Loving This Week: A Simple Black Clutch + Scandi-look Sweaters 2 Dec 2018 8:33 PM (6 years ago)

Check out some of my favorite online shopping finds for this week…

1. Club Monaco Tommie Merino Sweater, $139.50
Being somewhat of a sweater aficionado, I’m always interested in finding new shapes that compliment my minimalist fashion leanings. This week I have two new finds to share, the first of which is this 100% merino wool sweater. The high neckline and long ribbed cuffs look modern and vaguely Scandinavian in the tradition of labels like Acne Studios and Hope. But so much more affordable than those Swedish heavyweights.

2. COS Chunky Leather Heels, $190.00
Speaking of Scandinavian, these heels from the affordable Swedish label COS look unlike anything else I’ve seen in stores lately. I’m convinced the block heel and high vamp will feel great, while the rubber sole adds a little extra grip for the wet winter months.

3. Everlane The Foldover Pouch, $98.00
Is there a more versatile party purse than a simple black clutch? Nope. Which is why I’m super confused as to why I no longer have one. I think I lost mine somewhere. Regardless, I’ve been looking for the perfect replacement black clutch for days. Something simple, but luxurious. Compact, but still big enough for evening out necessities, including a phone and keys. This Everlane pouch fits the bill, and it’s also available in red and beige, in case you already have basic black covered.

4. Loeffler Randall Leily Ankle Strap Pump, $224.98 (was $375.00)
This is the festive shoe for those winter evenings when your toes are cold, and not even close to pedi-perfect besides. Metallic gold goes with just about everything, and that ankle strap is both decorative and practical.

5. & Other Stories Alpaca Blend Knit Sweater, $119.00
The second of my sweater finds this week is from another affordable Swedish label, & Other Stories. I promise, I didn’t plan this Scandi-heavy post, it just happened this way. The dropped shoulder and balloon sleeves on this alpaca blend add a feminine touch to an otherwise classic oatmeal-colored rib knit sweater.

Sale: Nordstrom Cashmere Sweaters $58 29 Nov 2018 8:52 PM (6 years ago)

I find sale-priced cashmere very hard to resist. Just in time for holiday gifting -- for others or yourself -- Nordstrom has put two classic cashmere sweater silhouettes from their Halogen house label on sale. This is about as good as it gets in cashmere sweater land.

The Relaxed V-Neck Cashmere Sweater has a kick-back look that is weekend-ready and perfect for layering. It comes in twelve colors, including two neutral striped options that look straight out of a how-to-dress-French guidebook.

For a more refined look, the Crewneck Cashmere Sweater is an appealing option. It has a side slit that makes it a bit more interesting than a plain crewneck, but it’s still 100% work appropriate. It comes in fourteen color options, including two colorful striped patterns and a very pretty navy blue Donegal-look knit.

Both sweaters are available in sizes XS to XXL regular and XXS to XL petite, although some of the more popular size and color combinations currently have very limited inventory. Shockingly, very few combinations are sold out. Shipping and returns are both free.

→ Buy the Halogen Relaxed V-Neck Cashmere Sweater, $58.90 (was $89.00), at nordstrom.com.

→ Buy the Halogen Crewneck Cashmere Sweater, $58.90 (was $89.00), at nordstrom.com.

3 Fashion Girl Gifts That Give Back 27 Nov 2018 9:07 PM (6 years ago)

There’s no need for the good deeds to stop after #GivingTuesday has passed. There are a ton of options for gifting your good taste while also giving back to a worthy nonprofit. Here are three of my favorite finds for the holiday season, each of which results in a donation to a wonderful organization.

This peachy-pink sweatshirt has the trendy vintage athletic wear look down cold. 100% of the sales from this sweatshirt goes to support Girls, Inc. This nonprofit, founded in 1864, works to empower girls age 6-18 through mentorship, programming, and skill-building.




→ Buy the J.Crew x Girls, Inc. Girls Sweatshirt, $69.50, at jcrew.com.


These cult-favorite comfy slip-ons are available in eight color/ fabric, witty saying combinations, including this heather black pair with the world “nightowl” embroidered along the side. Since 2006 the TOMS company has donated a pair of new shoes to a child in need for every pair of TOMS purchased.




→ Buy the TOMS Classic Alpargata Slip-On, $33.57 - $48.97, at nordstrom.com.


Everlane has become quickly popular thanks to their commitment to sustainable practices, fair wages, and transparent pricing. Their 100% Human line features unisex tees, tanks, sweatshirts, and hoodies in a range of color combos. Every piece sold results in a $5 donation to Equality Now, a nonprofit that has been fighting for women’s rights worldwide since 1992.




→ Buy the Everlane 100% Human French Terry Sweatshirt, $50.00, at everlane.com.



More Gifts That Give Back:

Loving This Week: A Perfect NYE Dress + Political Cashmere 26 Nov 2018 9:38 PM (6 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Emerson Fry Sparkler Dress, $288.00
Oh, hey – it’s your New Year’s Eve dress. Slouchy, sparkly, and fully lined. Plus, adjustable shoulder straps! It doesn’t get much better than this.

2. Faris SEED Onyx Bracelet, $125.00
This pretty little bauble features a strand of small onyx beads held together with a sterling silver hook-and-eye closure. It’s simple and refined. Maybe pair it with aforementioned NYE dress?

3. Byredo Rinse Free Hand Wash, $35.00
Would a hand sanitizer by any other name smell as sweet? Likely, no. This is one of those rare cases where the product is deserving of the euphemistic name. It’s a beautifully scented, hydrating hand wash for when you want to both be germ free and bougie. I’m picturing it in the carry-on for a magical winter getaway.

4. Lingua Franca ‘the revolution will not be tweeted’ Sweater, $380.00
Lingua Franca’s hand-embroidered cashmere sweaters have become a kind of Fifth Avenue uniform for the politically aware. They have many contemporary catch phrases to choose from (as well as a fun apolitical collab with the Whitney Museum). Having got my start in the digital world as a social media manager, fresh off an early career as a political law attorney, this take on the title of Joe Trippi’s seminal book on the rise of internet as a political tool speaks volumes to me.

5. Topshop High Waist Crop Straight Leg Jeans, $110.00
Sometimes you just need a pair of dark denim jeans in a modern cut, minus the bells and whistles. These are those jeans.

Loving This Week: Faux Leather Leggings + Pajar On Sale 11 Nov 2018 8:17 PM (6 years ago)

Check out my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Halogen High/ Low Turtleneck Sweater, $79.00
The low, curved hem of this cotton blend chunky turtleneck gives it an elegant silhouette. And who doesn’t want a sweater that covers their bum occasionally? It’s available in five colors, including the dark grey heather pictured here and a beautiful forest green.

2. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings, $98.00 - $102.00
I’ve heard nothing but raves about these faux leather leggings. They are rumored to fit like a glove, smooth out all the wobbly bits, and make your legs look about a mile long. They are available in six colors, regular and petite inseams, and sizes from XS to 3X!

3. Club Monaco Mogan Sweater, $155.00
This pretty merino wool sweater gets athleisure edge from dolman sleeves and elastic cuffs and hem. Picture it with a sequin pencil skirt and heeled booties for holiday parties.

4. Marni Leather Ballet Flats, $366.00 (was $815.00)
Square-toe ballet flats have a high fashion look, but without sacrificing comfort and ease. These sheepskin Marni flats also happen to be marked way down for the season.

5. Pajar Canada Phoenix Fox Fur-Trim Down Puffer, $251.99 (was $550.00)
Regular readers might remember me waxing poetic about the amazingness that is my Pajar Fusion boots back in January, fresh off a very cold trip to Scotland. I’m convinced a Pajar coat would be just as cozy and comfy, although they are quite an investment. This down-filled Pajar nylon puffer from last season is currently marked way down, with an extra 40% off with coupon code WARMTH. The final price is as low as I’ve seen similar high-end cold-weather coats anywhere. If you are in the market, don’t miss this sale. It’s available in red, black, and navy, sizes XS to XL.

Loving This Week: Shaggy Faux Fur + A Wine Advent Calendar 6 Nov 2018 7:49 PM (6 years ago)

Check out a few of my favorite online shopping finds for the week…

1. Topshop Camille Hooded Faux Fur Coat, $150.00
A perennial favorite. This shaggy faux fur coat is available in four colors, but it’s this pale brown that gives off a vintage vibe straight out of The Royal Tenenbaums.

2. Vinebox 12 Nights of Wine, $129.00
It’s a wine advent calendar that offers a new glass from around the world every night, and it might even contain a golden bottle worth a year’s worth of wine ($644 value). Perfect for gifting your bestie. Or for gifting yourself. Hurry, though. This sold out quickly last year.

3. Flora 1761 Nail Lacquer in English Ivy, $16.00
Simply the prettiest shade of green nail polish on the market. It’s 8-free, vegan, cruelty free, and made in the USA. New customers get free shipping with code SHIPFREE at checkout.

4. Mejuri Diamonds Line Ring, $180.00
This new line offers some of the best values in modern, minimalist fine jewelry. For less than $200 you get six ethically-sourced black diamonds set in 14k solid rose gold. It doesn’t get much better than that.

5. J.Crew Pull-On Velvet Skirt, $98.00
On the one hand, this skirt vibes ultra-luxe. On the other hand, it looks like it probably feels like wearing pajamas. I think that makes it perfect for holiday party season. It comes in four colors, but this pale sea-blue is the standout.

Sale: Marni Glossed Leather Brogues 55% Off 24 Oct 2018 8:39 PM (6 years ago)

I’m so glad fall is finally here. I deeply love all of the cold-weather items you can’t get away with wearing in the summer, even here in the perpetually chilly Bay Area. I’m excitedly unpacking cashmere cardigans and wool turtlenecks, over-the-knee boots and Chelsea boots, parkas and knit caps. And day dreaming about a just-right pair of menswear-inspired brogues.

These sale-priced Marni brogues will do nicely. The leather upper is the ideal state of shiny – somewhere just above ordinary black leather, but well below patent leather territory. I'm just not ok with patent leather during the day. The charcoal grey laces feel more luxurious than the skinny, barely-functional laces you normally see on a women’s brogue. The visible stitching around the sole, where glue might be used in a down-market option, instantly signals a shoe that’s quality made. Finally, the shape has a vintage vibe that feels straight out of a Charlie Chaplin silent movie. The whole look is well put together in a way that reminds me instantly why investment clothing is a real thing.

Wear these stylish brogues with everything from workwear suits – I’m really feeling cropped plaid for fall – to jeans and chunky sweaters throughout the cold weather months. I’d even try pairing them with beautiful socks and cropped pants for fashion-forward look. Even on sale, they’re still quite an investment. But, they are significantly more affordable than they’d be at regular price, and sure to last for many seasons with good care.

→ Buy the Marni Glossed Leather Brogues, $384.00 (was $855.00), at theoutnet.com; get 15% off your first order with code FIRSTTIME15.