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    Tag: beauty

    The Good Girl Guide to Finding the Perfect Fragrance

    Beauty by louise

    What’s Your Fragrance?

    Fragrance is one of the most wonderful things to wear. The pleasant, sweet smell of a fragrance can make you nostalgic or bring you new feelings and memories. Perfume for that reason is an accessory, wouldn’t you agree?

    Nothing inspires me more than the modern elegant woman, and for this reason I am dedicating this post to one of my favorite perfumes by Carolina Herrera. For me, the “Good Girl” perfume is the most intoxicating scent I have ever experienced with its unique blend of tuberose, jasmine sambac, tonka beans, and cocoa.  I love the smell of warm florals with the beautiful contradictions and the ever-present duality of the modern women and modern life.

    When I think about the modern woman, I am reminded of strength, elegance, mystery, and courage. So it is no surprise that apart from the floral fragrance of Carolina Herrera Good Girl perfume, I am also drawn to the uniquely designed bottle in the shape of a stiletto which evokes the beauty of Couture. After all, a good fragrance should have a certain personality that makes people identify the smell with you.

    As a general rule, it is best to go fragrance shopping with a small selection of scents you plan on sampling. Do your research, have an idea of the kind of fragrance that you feel embodies you, and if you really do not know where to start, engage the help of the in-store sales staff to help you.

    Your scent is your signature. If all else fails, just go for what you love.  Is it sweet or citrus fragrances? Floral, oriental, woody, or fresh?

    “Sometimes the simplest things are the most profound.” Carolina Herrera

    The Fragrance

    So what does the modern woman smell like? Carolina Herrera Good Girl perfume has a floral wave of white sambac jasmine and tuberose in contrast with the mysterious underlying smell of tonka bean and cocoa.

    • One of my new favorite fragrances; a mature smell but in the best way possible. It exemplifies the effortless elegance and aptitude of the House of Herrera.
    • Sweet notes of warm floral with the intoxicating tonka, and tuberose which gives the fragrance fluidity and femininity.
    • An attractive fragrance bottle in the form of a high-heeled shoe captures the essence, spirit, and imagination of the modern powerful woman.

    When choosing the perfect perfume, it is key to pick a fragrance you usually like. Trying testers can help decide if a fragrance works with your body chemistry. Additionally, samples can give you the opportunity to try a variety of smells over a span of time to decide which one works for you. The key is never to settle.

    I think the Good Girl perfume is one you need to experience for yourself. It is bold, powerful, and daring. A perfume I will be indulging in during the Spring and Summer months.

    Key Pieces to Make a Statement Outfit

    Fashion, Style by louise

    Making a Statement

    As soon as we hit Spring, Dallas starts looking like a totally different city. All the outdoor restaurants and shops are busy again, and I love how people come together to catch-up on many different interests and topics while enjoying the beautiful Spring weather.

    This is a fun time for me because it means being outdoors; whether it is spending time on coffee dates with friends or more intimate outings with my family. Whatever the occasion, finding a few key pieces can transform your wardrobe into simple chic. There are so many great ways to add texture to your outfit without resulting in you looking like you really made an effort.

    The most exciting part of personal styling is your ability to play with your look in a fun and playful light. There’s something about the feminine elegance that a skirt brings to an outfit that draws me to them. This three-layered tulle skirt is not only flattering but surprisingly versatile. It is the perfect transitional piece for the Spring season.

    Skirts just never go out of fashion and with so many textures and styles there is a flattering skirt out there for everyone. Making a fashion statement does not have to be seasonal. Selecting the right pieces can make any look absolutely cute and give you room to enjoy the outdoors.

    The Outfit

    The art of selecting the right key pieces can either make you look stylish or have the opposite effect altogether. I carefully selected this three-tiered tulle skirt because of how light and airy it feels. Maxi skirts are so versatile and feminine. The black elastic waistband adds a pop of color to the rather pale pastel color of the skirt. I simply cannot count how many times I have worn this gorgeous skirt! Since this skirt is no longer in stock, I have included similar skirts in the “shop my favorites” link below.

    This crushed velvet minaudière is on point and the perfect ensemble to any look. What I love about the minaudière is the drop-in chain strap with clasp closure. The velvet material is super soft and can be worn up or down to accentuate your style.

    For the shoes, I went with Vince Camuto. The color is neutral and it was a pleasant surprise to find that they are quite comfortable. You can wear this pair with jeans, skirt, or a dress. For someone who easily gets blisters in new shoes, these ones passed with flying colors.

    I decided to stick with my style and add a denim jacket to the look. By the way, denim jackets always look amazing with any style and we all know it was necessary for any typical spring weather! I also quickly grabbed a pair of sunglasses to protect my eyes on my day out, because we all know sunglasses are a necessary protection for your eyes.

    As with most of my outfits, I like to add a few pieces of jewelry. Jewelry pieces can make a statement too! Depending on your preference, jewelry can be an added touch to a timeless classic and effortless look.

    How do you plan to add key pieces to your wardrobe this Spring?

    Why I’m Using Josie Maran Argan Oil This Summer

    Beauty by louise

    Indulge

    verb
    – to allow yourself or someone else to have something enjoyable

    This should be my daily mantra but like most people, I keep going and going without ever listening to the warning signs of my body. Fortunately, I have learned to give myself moments to myself through meditation and relaxation so I am able to enjoy time now in life and with my family and friends.

    Summer brings longer days, a variety of flowers and fresh scents, and taking a moment to indulge in new products and pamper yourself.

    Usually this time of year requires the most maintenance to your skin since the air is dry, it’s extremely hot, and you’ll want to keep your skin healthy under the sun’s blazing rays.

    I believe in looking after your skin with oils and luxurious products. It might seem tedious to some but this little act of self care and showing your body a little extra time really does help with leading a much more well rounded and stress free life.

    For my face, I started using Josie Maran 100% Argan oil. It keeps my face hydrated on hot summer days although this has become a part of my nightly routine.

    I’m not a big fan of sitting in the sun for hours at a time but every now and then a little sun exposure is fine. For a quick sun-tanned look for summer, you can try the Josie Maran Argan Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Oil. It gives a beautiful healthy glow, quick to apply on your body, and stays on your skin for up to two weeks.

    How often do you use it?

    I use the Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil almost every evening before bed. In the beginning, I applied a small portion on the side of face to make sure I didn’t have a reaction.

    Now I use it as part of my nightly routine, combined with my favorite products to ensure my skin is looking its best.

    For the Self-Tanning Oil, I used it once and it gave me a beautiful tan. You can determine how dark your application and can use as often as you like every two weeks.

    What results have you seen?

    I can only speak from my own experience since skin type differs from person to person but I am seeing a noticeable difference in the lines on my forehead and how my skin feels radiant and plump after I started using the Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil.

    Initially I was a bit skeptical and feared a breakout on my skin, however, I feel like my skin has improved ever so slightly so I’m going to continue using the product in the hope that it will minimize the lines on my forehead and help slow down the aging lines.

    For the Josie Maran Self-Tanning oil, I recall how shocked Alex was when he got home and saw me looking so tanned. Initially he thought I had been basking for hours in the sun!

    Again, it really depends on how evenly you apply it to your skin and following the instructions in the pamphlet.

    Have you tried Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil? What has your experience been like? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

    Why I’m Using Korres and Tarte in 2017

    Beauty by louise

    I’ve had a few things in my makeup collection lately, from essential oils to lip butters and serums. In my search to find the perfect hydrating serum, I stumbled upon the KORRES brand.

    Never did I think I could achieve a dewy glow with the KORRES Wild Rose Vitamin C brightening oil infused with real rose petals, and suitable for all skin types. What I especially love about the product is that it is free of  paragons, sulfates, and Phthalates. The oil is 94.5% natural, dermatologically tested and cruelty-free.  This is a wonder product for my thirsty skin and what I use every morning, in the same way I reach for a glass of infused water.

    There’s just something to be said about winter and dry lips.  So to keep my lips soft, I picked up the KORRES pomegranate natural lip butter.  Initially I was a bit skeptical about the flavor but now I really love that I can nourish and hydrate my lips while still having the choice of color to look presentable. .

    Since I’m all into minimal makeup and with my recent change in hair color, I had to find a blush to complement my complexion. I carefully selected the Tarte Amazonian clay 12-hour blush and highlighter.  The color is light and peachy so it gives a natural look and not overly pigmented. It comes in four shades and similar to KORRES, it is formulated without parabens, mineral oil, sulfate, or gluten.

    I do think to have beautiful and healthy skin you need to develop a daily skincare routine.

    • Just like how you listen to your body, you need to learn to listen to your skin and how it reacts to certain products.  As much as I wanted to use a particular anti-aging serum made from essential oils, my skin reacted to the properties in the product and I had to immediately stop and find a skincare that works for me.
    • Diet and exercise is an extremely important part of great looking skin.  I am a firm believer of this and try to make healthy choices when it comes to food.
    • It is also an absolute must to always move your makeup before bed. This is not something to be overlooked irregardless of how tired you are. Take good care of your face.
    • Drink lots of water and use products which penetrate deep into the layers of the skin.  I always have a pitcher of infused water at home and usually carry one with me on the go.
    • Meditation and sleep is also essential.  Many times, people follow the usual routine of healthy diet, exercise, water, and using a good skin product but a big component is also taking the time to relax, meditate, and rejuvenate your body and mind.
    @LOUISEMILLEN