Wrinkle-Free: Madewell Boyjean in Linen Wash

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A classic laid-back style for summer is white linen pants. Perfect for outdoor BBQ’s and days at the beach, linen keeps you cool but it can also turn into a wrinkled-mess.

A great alternative to the usual drawstring linen pant is Madewell’s Boyjean in Linen Wash. These pants are thin, lightweight and comfortable. They will keep you cool all summer and are a great transitional staple for work and play.

Stay crease and wrinkle-free with the linen-alternative.

Current Obsession: Blank Denim White Vegan Leather Skinny Pants

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Current Obsession: White Leather.

I am drawn to the crisp texture and clean lines.

First Purchase: Blank Denim’s White Vegan Leather Skinny Pants.

The quality is amazing and unexpected – “pleather” sure has come a long way. The fit is tight, comfortable and surprisingly flattering.

Big chunky sweaters in the Fall/Winter and simple cotton tanks and tees in the Spring/Summer.

If they survive? (white drinks only)

Extend the Summer: Monoi de Tahiti

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Extend your summer and capture the scent of the French Polynesian Islands with Monoi de Tahiti. ‘Monoi’ is an ancient Tahitian word that means  “scented oil”. The gorgeous fragrance comes from the Tahiti’s national flower, Tiaré, also known as the Tahitian Gardenia. When the tiaré flower is infused in traditional Tahitian coconut oil you get the decadent scent and skin savor, Monoi de Tahiti.

The tiaré flowers that are used in Monoi de Tahiti are hand-picked at a very particular stage of their growth, specifically when they are still unopened. The flower portion is placed in refined coconut oil for a minimum of 15 days. This is known as “enfleurage” (flower soaking), a French term used to designate a specific extraction step. According to specific maceration standards set by the decree of Appellation d’Origine, which each manufacturer must scrupulously follow, a minimum of 15 tiaré flowers must be used in every liter of refined coconut oil.

Beyond their contribution to Monoi de Tahiti, tiaré flowers are deeply rooted in everyday Polynesian life. In traditional medicine, the flower is prepared in a variety of concoctions to alleviate headaches, sunburn and even the common cold. It is also known for the benefits to the skin, body and hair, because it does not contain any emulsifiers. The oil moisturizes, protects and conditions skin while combining the beautiful scent of Tahitian gardenia flowers and coconut oil.

Used in many beauty products, the fragrant scent of Monoi perpetually remind me of summer. During the colder months of the year, bring a little sunshine into your life with Monoi.

The Body Shop ~ Spa Wisdom Polynesia Monoi Miracle Oil: $20.00

NARS ~ Monoi Body Glow II: $59.00

Carol’s Daughter ~ Monoi Repairing Hair Mask: $29.00 (FULL REVIEW: HERE)

Monoi Tiki Tahiti ~ Tahitian Coconut Oil: $6.75

C. Booth ~ Tahitian Monoi Dry Oil Spray: $6.99

Perfect Pink: NARS Gaiety

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NARS Gaiety is my current perfect pink blush. It creates the perfect youthfulness and will instantly brighten your day… and complexion.

Described as a “bright candy pink,” the cool-toned pink has a strong blue-base. The buildable color allows for a sheer wash of color on the cheeks or layer for a bold pink flush. The color is matte with tiny specks of silver sparkle, that when applied offers a soft subtle sheen – perfect for the apples of the cheeks.

NARS blushes are long-lasting and true to color. I love Gaiety in the summer, when tanned/bronzed skin needs a flush of color. The contrast of the warm tan and cool pink reflects youthfulness and fun.

Straw Topper: Club Monaco Nancy Straw Fedora

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Warm weather and outdoor fun requires a little shelter from the sun. Club Monaco’s Nancy Straw Fedora is the perfect retreat.

Made from intertwined straw, it is extremely lightweight and comfortable. It will protect your face, hair and scalp from the sun. The neutral color will complement just about anything you pair with it and has a relaxed style perfect for lazy summer days.

Simple and effortless, the Nancy Straw Fedora is the perfect topper to add some character to your look.

Club Monaco ~ Nancy Straw Fedora: $39.00 (sale) original price: $69.50

Summer Savior: Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Mask & Healing Oil Treatment

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The summer months call for plenty of fun in the sun and outdoor activities. Sun, salt, chlorine and wind exposure can take quite a toll on your hair. Keep your locks looking lush with Macadamia Natural Oil’s Deep Repair Masque & Healing Oil Treatment.

Macadamia Natural Oil is a professional hair care line that creates products to heal problematic hair using both macadamia oil and argan oil. Together, these oils replenish the hair’s natural emollients with the high content of essential fatty acids found naturally in both. The combined benefits help to nourish and protect the hair from harmful UV rays while repairing hair follicles for improved elasticity and shine.

The Deep Repair Masque is a revitalizing hair reconstructor for dry, damaged hair. Thick in consistency this masque feels extremely pampering and moisturizing. It smells amazing, like vacation and creates super soft, shiny, manageable hair.

The Healing Oil Treatment is a therapeutic oil that provides intense nourishment and frizz-free finish. It is lightweight, non-greasy and reduces drying time by 40-50%. It naturally provides UV protection which will extend the life of color treatments and reduce fading. This oil instantly and miraculously creates healthier-looking hair.

For an ultra-intense hydrating experience – mix both of these products together and leave-in hair overnight or during a day at the beach or pool.

Summer Must-Have: Facial Mists

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Stay cool this summer with a tantalizing facial mist. A Summer must-have, these sprays will instantly boost your spirits and skin. Throw one in your handbag, beach-bag and/or travel-bag for a quick pick-me-up. Here are my five favorites:

TIP: Always refrigerate facial mists for extra freshness and stimulation.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir is great for those wanting a quick radiance boost. Part-toner/part-serum, this potion contains a mix of essential oils that will tighten pores and awaken the skin. Mist onto face anytime your skin feels dull and in need of a little hydration. Great for travel.

Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water is an uplifting aromatherapy water that refreshes and hydrates the skin. Made from the bitter orange blossom, this facial spray soothes and hydrates the skin. The moment your face feels tight, one spritz will instantly hydrate and refresh the skin. Use as a toner after cleansing the face or as a body spray after showering. Perfect for après beach.

Chantiecaille Pure Rosewater ~ See full review HERE.

Avène Thermal Spring Water is a mineral-rich water, great for softening and soothing sensitive skin. Gentle and effective on irritated, sunburned and post surgery/procedure skin. This calming solution provides antioxidant protection that leaves a soothing barrier on the skin. It creates a dewy, healthy finish on the skin. Essential for sensitive skin.

Suti Peppermint Water is a cooling burst of refreshing hydration. Known as the “wake-up” water, this facial spray stimulates the senses as well as the skin. Made with organic peppermint leaves this facial spray relieves redness, inflammation and is famous for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. It instantly energizes and replenishes the skin creating a healthy glow. A beach-bag must-have.

Bare Necessities: Summer Intimates

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During the summer months keep cool with lightweight bare-ly-there lingerie. Subject your intimates drawer to the same seasonal overhaul that your closet goes through. Put away the flannels and free the feather-weight options.

Opt for thin, lace skivvies, comfortable bralettes and seamless boyshorts. Sleep in delicate rompers, cami-sets and free-flowing tanks. With these comfortable and cool bare-ly there options your body and boyfriend will thank you.

Here are a few of my favorite bare necessities for summer:

Madewell ~ Perfect Racerback Tank: $25.00

Commando ~ Girl Short: $26.00

Victoria Secret ~ Lace Bandeau: $17.50

Victoria Secret ~ Lace Bralette: $24.50

Aubin & Willis ~ Hurstdene Polka-Dor Silk Pajama Playsuit: $85.o0

Cosabella ~ Dolce Soft Bra: $52.50

Cosabella ~ Dolce Boyshort: $35.00

Old Navy ~ Tank & Short Lounge Sets: $14.94

Hanky Panky ~ Signature Lace Low Rise Thong: $20.00

GLOW-T AWARDS: Jergens Natural Glow Express

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BEST DRUGSTORE SELF-TANNER: Jergens Natural Glow Express

Jergens Natural Glow Express is a gradual self-tanning lotion that delivers hydration, dark color and leaves skin glowing. Even better… it is available at the drugstore.

Formulated with antioxidants, this thick lotion has the same consistency of a body butter. It is available in two shades: Fair to Medium and Medium to Tan. The Fair to Medium is much too light and develops a yellow-based tan. In just one to two applications, the Medium to Tan creates a natural-looking, dark tan. It leaves a nice sheen on the skin and reflects a healthy-glow.

This lotion has a slight “self-tanner” smell but nothing too evasive. It can be mixed with your favorite moisturizer to mask the scent and extend the life of the small 4 oz tube.  I have used this product for years and always bring a bottle when I travel. It is quick and easy and I never worry about streaks or stains.This gradual tanner will extend and preserve the life of your tan all summer long.

Read my post: Application Tips & Tricks

Nude Attitude: HIPPxRGB Nail Foundations

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In the summer I love a brightly-colored nail. From trendy neons to tropical-inspired corals, warm weather feeds this need. However, there is nothing like the perfect nude nail polish. A polish that will never go out of style and will flatter and enhance your skin tone all-year-round. If you have ever searched for this unicorn, you know how difficult it is to find.

Last year, Celebrity Nail Stylist Jenna Hipp teamed up with RGB founder Gina Carney to create HIPPxRGB, the first skin tone specific, full coverage, all nude nail color collection. Similar to the concept of foundation for the face, Nail Foundation is the first nail color of its kind designed to match and compliment for a flawless even finish. Available in four shades – F1, F2, F3, & F4 -, Nail Foundation can be applied with two coats or worn under a favorite neutral for a custom blend with added coverage.

Genius. The only word to describe. I mix F1 and F2 to concoct the perfect nude for my skintone. By the end of summer, I may need to add a drop of F3. I love the alchemy involved with these polishes. Mix and match shades for warmer or cooler tones, depending on the season.

ABOUT RGB:

Stands for: The RGB color model is an additive color model in which red, green, and blue light are added together in various ways to reproduce a broad array of colors. The name of the model comes from the initials of the three additive primary colors, red, green, and blue.

RGB is a product line dedicated solely to nail color and care. RGB creates nail color as an extension of one’s wardrobe; we use color as an accessory. It started with the RGB Ten collection: ten iconic colors with a modern edge. Each shade is our sharp take on a classic with a straightforward name to match. While the classic ten will always remain the same, new colors are added seasonally. The chip-resistant and high shine formula is free of harmful chemicals. There is no Formaldehyde, Toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate), Formaldehyde Resin, or Camphor in RGB products.

Springtime in Paris: TOCCA Violette

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The latest edition to the TOCCA family of fragrances is “Violette”. A romantic and whimsical floral scent perfect for spring and summer.

TOCCA DESCRIPTION:

Violette evokes the whirlwind romance between a young soldier on leave and a young girl at the fragrance counter of Le Bon Marche in 1940s Paris. It is Springtime in Paris, vibrant blooms along the Champs-Elysees awaken the youthful spirit of first love.

Top Notes: Italian Bergamot, Ginger Oil, Coriander Seed Oil
Middle Notes: African Violet, Bulgarian Rose, Black Currants
Bottom Notes: Creamy Cedarwood, Cashmere Musk, Benzoin

TOCCA’s Violette emulates springtime in Paris. Sexy yet utterly romantic, it reeks of sophistication. Plus, the “old world” glass bottle looks incredibly chic on the vanity. TOCCA fragrances are long-lasting and never overpowering. Also lovely to spritz on freshly washed bed linens and towels. Comparison: If you like or have sampled Tom Ford’s Violet Blonde, you will love Violette.

THE STORY OF TOCCA:

TOCCA launched in 1994 by a group of friends with a vision for beautiful yet affordable clothes. Their early collection consisted of candy-colored terry cloth tube dresses to sari-inspired embroidered mini dresses. In Italian “TOCCA” is the word for “touch” – named after it’s intricate embroideries and luxurious fabrics. The launch of TOCCA Beauty  came in 1997, with three unique and unusual products: a solid perfume, a dry oil skin smoother and a laundry delicate for fine washables. The first fragrance was a gardenia-based potion called “Touch”. TOCCA Beauty continues to be renowned worldwide as a fragrance house of distinctive and exquisite scents. TOCCA’s coveted fragrances can be found in our luxury candle collection, fine fragrances and bath and body products and are sold in the finest boutiques worldwide.

Tropical Inspiration: Aqua Eyes

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Bold, turquoise green eye makeup is a perfect summer look. Tropical inspiration from ocean blues and palm frawn greens will make any eye color pop. This color family come in all sorts of textures and consistencies, choose from metallic, shimmering or pastel shades.

Aqua eyes is great look for both day or night. Start with a vibrant turquoise or shimmering green powder or cream eyeshadow and apply all over the lid. Build for more color or leave for a sheer wash. If you don’t want color on the entire lid, try a simple liner. Draw a thin or thick line on the upper or lower eyelid. For true vibrancy, first line the eye with a white pencil and go over with your favorite kohl, liquid or gel liner. This will bring the color to life.

Brighter colors tend to have more pigment and last longer on the skin – so less is more. It’s easier to build color if more is needed,  but harder to remove color if you put too much on.

Here are a few of my favorite tropical-inspired products.

Dior ~ Croisette Edition: $60.00

NARS ~ Shimmer Eyeshadow in Tropic: $24.00

Make Up For Ever ~ Aqua Eyes in 7L – Turquoise: $18.00

Urban Decay ~ 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Siren: $19.00

YSL ~ Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils Waterproof in Majorelle Blue: $30.00

MAC ~ Fluidline in Waveline: $15.00

Maybelline ~ Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Cream Gel Shadow in Tenacious Teal & Edgy Emerald: $6.99 (each)

Smashbox ~ Limitless 15 Hour Wear Cream Shadow: $19.00

Sailor Style: Boat Shoes

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Set sail this summer with a new pair of boat shoes. A modern-day take on an American classic have been given a fresh dose of color and style. Whether you like pastel, neon, or neutral shades, there’s bound to be a boat shoe out there for you.

Discover your inner prepster by pairing these shoes with colored denim and crisp button-down or polo. Or play it casual with a simple pair of cut-offs and tee. These comfortable slip-ons must be worn sans socks, making them perfect for summer style.

The boat shoe is a timeless classic made for fun-in-the-sun. Here are a few fresh styles:

Sperry Top-Siders ~ Women’s Cloud Logo Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe: $75.00

Steve Madden ~ Yachtt: $49.95

Croft & Barrow ~ Boat Shoes: $35.99

Splendid ~ Mandarin: $79.00

Bed Stu ~ Auntie Bettie Tan Greenland Shoes: $75.00

Roxy ~ Ahoy Shoes: $39.00

5 under $50: High-Low Skirts

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A new style trend for skirts this spring/summer features a unique high-low hemline. The high-low hemline, short in the front/long in the back, is like wearing a mini-skirt and a maxi-skirt all-in-one. This playful look shows the perfect amount of skin without being too daring.

This style is uber flattering on any body shape. The asymmetric hemline creates a lengthening effect that instantly makes legs appear longer. Showing-off a little leg can be an effective way to elongate the entire frame.

Styling these skirts is simple. Depending on the color or print of the skirt, it is always safe to coordinate with pared-down basics. Try a simple tee, tank or my favorite – a slouchy grey sweatshirt top. The high-low hemline provides the perfect showcase for this season’s quintessential shoe. Show off your favorite flats, sandals, wedges or booties.

The high-low skirt is available everywhere in a multitude of colors, prints and textures. Here are 5 under $50:

Zara ~ Skirt with Asymmetric Hem: $39.90

Asos ~ River Island Heart Hi-Lo Midi Skirt: $38.27

Express ~ Hi-Lo Hem Maxi Skirt: $49.90

Forever 21 ~ Sheer Floral High-Low Skirt: $19.80

Nordstrom ~ Rubbish – Asymmetrical Circle Hem Maxi Skirt: $42.00

Glow & Go: Scott Barnes Body Bling

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Achieve glowing skin instantly with this shimmering body lotion that lasts all day. The bronzer to the stars, Scott Barnes Body Bling, is a no-commitment illuminator, that washes off with soap and water. Glow & Go.

Scott Barnes is a celebrated makeup artist credited for creating gorgeous looks for his numerous celebrity clients. His most popular look coined “the glow” was created on Jennifer Lopez. This monochromatic look features bronze glowing skin and pale lips. His signature look became known as “lit from within” and launched the world famous shimmering bronzer, Body Bling.

Use Body Bling on your shoulders, arms, legs, décolletage for a flawless look from head to toe. It’s great for masking self-tanning streaks or mistakes, covering flaws and instantly toning and slimming arms and legs. It is easy to apply and feels moisturizing on the skin.

Scott Barnes Body Bling is a must-have for summer. This lotion looks amazing on-top of already tanned (fake or real) skin. It is not dark enough to replace your other self-tanning products, but will look incredible in conjunction with. With specks of gold shimmer that reflect light beautifully, everyone can create Scott Barnes signature “lit from within” look.

Healthy Glow: Kevyn Aucoin – The Pure Powder Glow in Myracle

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Radiant, youthful-looking skin is just a brush stroke away with Kevyn Aucoin’s The Pure Powder Glow in Myracle.

Formulated with Aucoin’s signature finely milled powders, The Pure Powder Glow blends seamlessly and lasts all day. The hot pink hue is completely matte, pigment-rich and beautifully shocking. If applied with a light-hand, it will create a soft, more ethereal look. If applied with a heavy-hand, it will create a more vibrant, radiant glow.

Myracle is designed to work on all skin tones and looks amazing all-year-long. It will add life to bronzed skin in the summer and enhance a natural flush to fair skin in the winter.

For an instant cheek lift, place your blush brush at the highest point of your cheekbone and apply color in a circular motion. It’s a Myracle!

Summer in a Bottle: Bobbi Brown beach

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Nothing gets me more excited for summer than Bobbi Brown’s beach Fragrance. Layered with notes of jasmine, sea spray and mandarin, it is truly summer in a bottle.

An intoxicating combination of suntan lotion, salty sea and sand, the scent is comforting and nostalgic. The full line of Bobbi Brown’s beach Fragrance include: Body Lotion, Body Oil, Body Scrub, Shower Gel and Fragrance. The products are designed to keep skin glowing and hydrated all summer long. When layered, these products will also keep the fragrance locked-in for hours.

Use these products on a particularly gloomy day when you need a little pick-me-up. The refreshing scent will instantly recall memories of warm sunny days and a calm sea breeze.

Classic Wedge: STEVEN by Steve Madden Banndo

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STEVEN by Steven Madden Banndo is the perfect wedge to have in your collection. This shoe will pair perfectly with any color, pattern or style it is coupled with. The sandy suede texture has a soft, comfortable feel while the lightweight synthetic wedge adds support.

Pair these shoes with Spring florals and pastels. They are the perfect height for flared denim as well as a flattering shape for cropped. Available in leather or suede, black or tan, this classic wedge will wear perfectly all spring and summer long.

SALE ALERT: Vince – Waxed Cotton Trenchcoat

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Vince Waxed Cotton Trenchcoat

A trenchcoat can be worn all-year-round and never go out of style. Popular for centuries, this classic coat continues to evolve in both style and design.

This Waxed Cotton Trenchcoat by Vince is simple and clean. Typical in trenchcoat design, the cuff straps on the raglan sleeves add detail as well as protection from wind and rain.  The double-breasted silhouette remains classic as well as the belt that cinches at the waist. This trench is made of waxed cotton that will ensure durability on cold and wet days.

Saks Fifth Avenue online sale is compiled of fantastic spring and summer items. This Vince Trenchcoat is on sale for $197.99 from $495.00. Get it while it lasts!

Neon Nails: Essie Neon Collection

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Essie Neon Collection

Make a statement this summer with bright neon nails on fingers and toes. These amazingly bold hues with add a glow to the skin and enhance your summer tan.

To obtain a perfect polish, first apply a stark white base coat. When the neon color is applied over-top, it will instantly make the shade more vibrant and pigmented. This trick can be used with any nail lacquer, to obtain it’s “true color.”

Essie Neon Collection is a crop of gorgeous acid tones that light up the night. Funky Limelight, Flirty Fuchsia, Perky Purple and Punchy Pink will intensify any manicure.

Coat your nails with neon brights this summer and glow.