Beautycounter

Have you ever thought about what’s in your makeup and skincare products? I have to admit that I really hadn’t until earlier this week when I was invited to a social by one of my dear friends to learn about Beautycounter. I was shocked as the consultant, Evie Cartwright, rattled off a list of ingredients commonly found in beauty products that are banned in other countries and noted that the list of banned substances in the US has not been updated since the 1930s! I wasn’t sure what to expect, but was pleasantly surprised by how beautifully packaged the products are and how luxurious everything felt from the rich, silky eye cream to the delicious smelling sugar scrub. I decided to try Tint Skin, a sheer foundation product, and the Lustro Face Oil that the hostess was simply raving about. I can’t wait for my products to arrive so that I can tell you all how I’m enjoying them! Have you tried Beautycounter? Which products do you enjoy using?

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Kristen’s Day Off

Since moving to Alexandria, we had been wanting to make it over to local restaurant and watering hole, Brabo. Everyone buzzed about their amazing upscale happy hour specials, most notably the mussels, frites, and glass of wine for a mere “Jackson”. Making it anywhere by 6:30 on weeknight is a rare occurrence, so my birthday was the perfect opportunity since I had taken the day off work to have a “me” day. Ted (bless his heart) had made reservations at the new restaurant that opened on the ground floor of my office building, but I couldn’t bare the thought of trekking to the office on my day off! It was the first time I’ve ever taken a vacation day to just do nothing, and it was amazing. I woke up without an alarm, had a leisurely breakfast, enjoyed my coffee while reading my favorite blogs, and made it over to Solidcore, a new boutique fitness studio in my neighborhood, for my first class. The instructor and former ballerina, Alexandra Perrin, sure knows how to kick booty on the megaformer! I was sore for days, but have already been back for another class. I spent the rest of the afternoon testing out some of those beauty product samples we’ve all been saving for a rainy day, stopping by my favorite stores, and re-organizing my closet for spring. If you’ve never taken a day-off just to have a “me” day, I highly recommend trying it!             Jacket (C. Wonder, no longer available), Blouse (J. Crew, no longer available), Necklace, Ring from Rocksbox (use code kristenbff188 for a free month), Shoes by Butter from The Shoe Hive

Thanks for reading!

Thirty, Furry, and Fabulous 

I’ve never been one to make too much of a fuss over my birthday, but turning 30 seemed like a milestone worth celebrating. Thank you to my wonderful friends who joined Ted and me for brunch in Old Town at Trademark Drink and Eat. I figured it was a good excuse to dress up a bit, and took full advantage of the opportunity to wear this furry jacket that certainly made me the center of attention. My sweet friends showered me with peonies, macaroons, baubles, and more of my favorite things. It couldn’t have been more perfect, and I am truly grateful that I have such amazing people in my life. Thank you all for celebrating with me, and thank you for reading!                 Jacket / Sunglasses / Ring

St. Patty’s Day Inspiration with Rocksbox

I recently took the plunge into subscription wardrobe services with Rocksbox. It’s like Netflix for jewelry where you add items to your “wish list” and marvel as designer pieces appear at your doorstep. You can wear them once and return or purchase the pieces at a discount if you fall in love with an item. My most recent box featured a beautiful green onyx ring that was perfect for St. Patty’s Day along with adorable bow earrings and a sparkly crystal necklace. I plan on pairing them with this silk chiffon blouse for a festive workday ensemble that would make any girl green with envy! It’s amazing how something as simple as a statement necklace can transform an outfit. Be one of the first 3 readers to use code kristenbff188 for a free month of Rocksbox! How are you wearing green this year?IMG_1628IMG_1622

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Spring Forward

Having grown up in the South, I am not used to long, snowy winters and have been desperately searching for signs of spring. The groundhog left me sorely disappointed and winter storms seem to be hitting back to back, so I have enjoyed every moment of this sunny Saturday. I couldn’t resist stopping in front of this spring green gate to snap a few shots of my almost springy outfit. With all of the bling I’m already wearing, I’m thinking I’ll just swap my flats out for heels for dinner out in Old Town tonight. Along with the birds chirping, setting my clock forward always seems to give me confidence that spring is just around the corner (even though it means a shorter weekend). Don’t forget to “spring forward” tonight and thanks for stopping by!

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I shopped my closet rather than the racks for this outfit, but you can still snag these Kate Spades sunnies (currently 25% off with code SPRWD15) and Clinique lipstick in watermelon! For a similar look, try this sweater and these flats.