fall re-fresh

i have been seriously tempted by all of fall's vibrant colors and plush textures, but right now busy schedules and hot temps have made those purchases even more frivolous.  so what's a girl to do?  focus on the basics!  

classic shapes and quality fabric/fit elevate any outfit.  i splurged on 2 new pair of jeans that fit amazingly and i am certain to be wearing all of fall/winter/and beyond.

jbrand maria's

Rag & Bone elephant bell's

this denim does the job and doesn't need anything else other than a crisp white shirt.  instant chic.

BUT you can't always forget the funky things...so i also left M street with a pair of these:

Steve Madden MADEE

obsessed already - i've worn them 3 days in a row.  so comfortable and add the "something special" to my basic b&w work ensembles.

back to reality

what a wonderful and relaxing week at the beach. it was HARD to come back to the city and face the inevitable - work, responsibility, chores, etc. but in an effort to enjoy the summer heat and my last night of freedom we had a delicious steak dinner al fresco.

grilled lemon & ny strip steak seasoned with salt, pepper & olive oil w/ arugula in a lemon vinagrette.

beach

just returned from an incredibly fun, relaxing & sunny weekend at the beach.  there is nothing better than the sun, sand, cocktails and friends!  

thank goodness it's august and that means one more beach trip to round out one busy and hot summer.  headed down to Wrightsville for a week with the fam.

via

color crushes

going through a rainbow of emotions...pink, orange, now RED.

craving these slick skinnies by DKNY

DKNY - Ankle Length Skinny Pant in Cherry

via

make-up meltdown

a combination of the sweltering heat and slightly tan skin has made me lazy in the make-up department.  i have been rocking barely there make-up all summer long.  thinking about how i would like to pretty it up i turned to my make-up bin and realized quickly that the lack of make-up is the result of exactly that -- a lack of make-up.  

so i'm ready for a refresh...here's what i'm thinking:

currently owned staples:

NARS multiple in Orgasm -- the perfect flush of pink, with a hint of shimmer.  all around flattering.

Laura Mercier Eye Basics cream in Bone -- flawless eye base, creamy and in a perfect neutral

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer - best concealer i've ever used, hands down. dark circles begone.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 in Medium -- light, but gives great sheer coverage. i apply it just like face lotion, no brushes or hassle.

Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in Chunky Cherry - this stick has the texture of chapstick and adds that pop of color.

upgrades in my virtual cart:

Bobbi Brown Brow Pencil - defined brows instantly update & refine your make-up

Clinique Brush Collection -- was reading an article about dirty brushes and bacteria, i am ashamed to admit i may have had some of my make-up brushes since high shool.  high time for an upgrade.  i love the acryllic handles on these.

Nars Bronzing Powder in Laguna -- i've used this before and i'm out.  provides a perfect tawny glow year-round.

CHANEL - Long Wear Luminous Eye Shadow : dying to add some Chanel make-up to my collection.  this just looks like it would provide the perfect smoky eye

Fresh - Pink Jasmine Eau de Parfum : since i'm currently using the last spritz of every bottle i've ever owned

"Cher's main thrill in life is a makeover, it gives her a sense of control in a world full of chaos." 

images via BlueMercury, Clinique, NeimanMarcus

orange crush

a pop of color refreshes any outfit and right now i'm craving juicy orange hues.

images via JCrew, NARS, Hermes, Zara, Net-a-Porter

happy friday