There are endless types of moisturizers, formulated with specific ingredients giving you different results. When I look for a moisturizer my number one concern is treating dry skin. Many moisturizing creams have anti-aging ingredients built in, which is great, but for me not the most important.

French brands really do a basic moisturizer best! Brands such as La Mer, Avene, and Embryolisse are among my top favorites. Those last two are very affordable, around $16, and we'll talk about La Mer later in this post.

I use a variety of moisturizers depending on what issues my skin is having at that particular time. The list below are products that I use on a consistent basis. I've used all these for at least 6 months, with some being in my routine for years. I use a moisturizer only in my PM routine. Under my makeup I use a serum, which I think absorbs into the skin better. I don't like the oily or heavy feel of a moisturizer under my makeup. 


So now to my top 5 moisturizers ....
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This cream is designed as a daily moisturizer helping with dryness, dullness, uneven texture and skin tone.  It's formulated with glycol and lactic acids which helps with those issues, but can also make your skin sensitive to the sun. This is why I only use this moisturizer in the evening. You should use a foundation sunscreen for added protection from the sun. My face does not see the sun, I've had enough sunburns on this face to last a lifetime! The texture is also light and soaks into the skin nicely.

Sunday Riley is a relatively new brand created by a woman, that's her name, who is a chemist and formulated her own skin care line. It's a great background story but what I like most is that she started this brand with the idea that she wanted her products to work fast. And they do! This moisturizer is so hydrating and really light on the skin. I saw results immediately. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid, which is one of my favorite ingredients in beauty products. This leaves your skin hydrated and plumped. It also helps with hyperpigmentation, big word that basically means dark patches on the skin, usually caused by sun damage. It's also made for sensitive skin - bonus!
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Charlotte Tilbury is one of THE top makeup artists in the world. She came out with her line of make-up and skin care around 2013 and I've used most of them since day one. Her Magic Cream really is just that, MAGIC! It lifts your complexion and intensely moisturizes your skin. It is also made with Hyaluronic Acid to help seal in the moisture. This is a heavy cream but soaks into the skin beautifully. This is that straight up moisturizer that at times is all you want or need. Let's put it this way, if it's good enough for Kate Moss it's good enough for me! Her line will be available at Sephora on September 13th, so excited by that. I love getting those Rogue points!
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Drunk Elephant is another new skin care line founded by a woman in 2013. Their products are all made with clean, additive-free ingredients. This is another line I've become obsessed with recently  because once again the products WORK! The cream  is made specifically to help with dry & dull skin while delivering a dose of barrier moisture throughout the day and night. It has the texture of a rich face cream without feeling heavy on the skin. As the name says this is a whipped cream that is airy and blends into the skin so well. All Drunk Elephant products are fragrance free for those who prefer that. 
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OK, now let's talk. Yes, this is the QUEEN of all moisturizers. Yes, it's legendary! Yes, it's French, but of course!! Yes, it very expensive but Lord does this work. La Mer has different formulas of their face cream, at different price points, but to be honest they are all expensive. This is their ultra rich version which works on dryness. That's it and that's why I love it, just dryness. You only need a little bit, the cream is so ultra rich that you do not put it directly on to your face. Take a small amount, warm between your fingers until it becomes translucent and gently press onto your skin. The results are incredible. La Mer has a very interesting background story that goes into the making of their key ingredient which they call Miracle Broth. I will say that I normally purchase the 2 oz. jar which will last me for about 8 months. Granted, I do not use this every day. But when I need it, mostly during the cold Vermont winters, it works. I've used this for years and will always have it in my skin care rotation.

Let me know what your favorite moisturizers are. If you liked this post subscribe to my blog to keep up to date! You can also follow me on social media by clicking on the links below:) 

I'm loving that the whole 70's vibe is so popular right now! I can remember wearing the super flare jeans in my teenage years. I thought that this style would be permanent and never change. Ahhh, youth! Then along came the 80's, and straight leg jeans were in. Low rise jean were a thing in the early 2000's, which wasn't a good look for anyone! Most recently skinny jeans are the trend that, thank God, have stretch in them because how else could you get them on? But like everything in fashion what is old is new again, only better, so welcome back to the Flare!

Keep reading to see my #OOTD! With the brands and links of where to find the same look.
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This outfit is largely composed of clothing from Free People. Free People has become one of my favorite sites to shop recently. The quality of their clothing  is great, and the prices can be very affordable. I would say most of their items are in the same price range as J.Crew. Most people might think that this is a clothing company for younger people, but I think I can show that is not true. In the winter I live in some of their oversized sweaters! When their spring and summer lines came out I ventured out to try more of their clothing. 
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My pants are the Just Float On Flare Jean from Free People. They're available on their website and sold in a few different colors. What I love about their jeans is that they come in Petite sizes. It would be hard for someone my height (5'2") to wear these pants even with the tallest heel. Getting them tailored wouldn't work, because it would take away from the whole style of the pant. Flare jeans can balance out the body too, which is another plus!

The Eyelet Mantra Kimono is also from Free People, but it is sold out. Not to worry though I found a few other options that are very similar. You can go with the Dream Catcher Kimono, or the Eden Robe is good for the Boho Chic look. 

My top is actually a bodysuit. It's called the Yummie Seamless Long Sleeve Thong Back Body Suit, which you can get on Zappos website for $78. If you think that is a little pricey for just a bodysuit H&M sells a very inexpensive one for only $9.99. 
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These beautiful Stuart Weitzman shoes are so fabulous! They are not only a show stopper but very on trend with the palm print design. I'm excited to tell you guys that they are actually available for 50% off on their website! 

If their price doesn't fit into your budget the Yaro Block Heel Sandal is very similar currently being sold for $54. 
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Last but not least, the accessories. I really didn't add much to this outfit just because it didn't need much more. The Stella McCartney sunglasses are perfect though, and tie the whole outfit together! They give you that retro vibe, but with a modern twist. Honestly, these Thomas James LA by PERVERSE sunglasses are practically identical, but for a much reasonable price of $55.

The earrings I'm wearing are from Roberto Coin. An alternative option are these lovely Kate Spade earrings for $48. 

Let me know what you think about my #OOTD in the comments! If you enjoyed this go ahead and subscribe to my blog to keep up to date with all my new posts:) You can also follow me on social media by clicking on the icons below. 
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Hi Everyone, HAPPY FRIDAY! I know I haven't posted an OOTD in a minute, so here is one of my favorites. Pink always makes me smile! And like Joan Rivers said, "pink around the puss always makes you look pretty". This pink floral dress makes me feel feminine & fun! With the denim jacket it gives you a little bit of an edge. 

If you like my look keep scrolling to see my #OOTD! With the brands and links of where to find the same outfit.
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This J.Crew pink floral dress with a ruffle hem is perfect for any summer event. Since this one is currently sold out, this dress from Amazon is a great match. It is light pink with a flirty hem. 
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My denim jacket is from J.Crew, and it's currently on sale. I sized down on my jacket just to have a more fitted look. I also found this Express Western Yoke Distressed Denim Trucker Jacket, which I love. I know that oversized denim jackets are on trend right now, but that style definitely wouldn't go with this outfit. 

My fuschia shoes are from M.Gemi, one of my favorite shoe designers, and they are called The Esatto.  Many sizes are currently sold out, but if you join their waitlist there is a good chance they will be back in stock shortly. If you don't feel like waiting these Marc Fisher Pumps are available. 
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My clutch bag is from Everlane. The light pink isn't available, but the Natural is a great option. Since I own both colors you really can't tell the different in person. Everlane's bags are made incredibly well, and are very affordable. 
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My ring is from Paul Morelli and it's called the Confetti Ring. The Rolex watch I'm wearing is actually on loan from Mr. Stafford. I like to hit up his watch collection from time to time. Why not, right?!
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Finally, my earrings are from my own personal collection, which I've had for years. These Sapphire Gold Teardrop Earrings are from Etsy and only $12. Can you believe that? Such a great bargain, I love Etsy! 

Let me know what you think about my #OOTD in the comments! If you enjoyed this post go ahead and subscribe to my blog:) ​Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!!
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Fun & quick video of where I try out the GLAMGLOW INSTAMUD 60 Second Pore-Refining Mask. 

If you enjoy this video subscribe to my Youtube channel, and share with your friends. I'm always looking for feedback, so if you want to see more videos like this one let me know in the comments section. ​
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I know I'm always looking for the next holy grail of mascaras, and I'm sure I'm not the only one. I don't wear false lashes, mainly because I'm terrible at applying them. I also just don't have the patience to do it.

One of the many "fun" things about going through menopause is that you can lose your eyelashes. Yup that's right, it happened to me. They tend to fall out in clumps, so I had major spaces in-between my lashes! Thank goodness Latisse was launched at that time. It completely changed how my lashes grew and looked.

Now, at whatever life stage you find yourself in all women are trying to make their lashes look full and luscious. Since I admittedly have a minor addiction to Sephora I enjoy trying out every mascara under the sun. Here are my top 5 mascara choices to guarantee longer and fuller lashes without clumps or flaking. 
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This is a great mascara to throw on when you’re running errands, or not doing a full face of makeup. I use this mascara when I’m going for a more soft look. It doesn’t give you lush or thick lashes, but instead a very simple lifted wide-eyed look that will hold for 12 hours. I always use this on my bottom lashes no matter what mascara I am using on my top.
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From here we're going for the big bold look. This mascara will last all day and night! One of my favorite things is you can build massive volume without your lashes looking clumpy. It was made to layer beautifully. The pitch black color is perfect and does not fade. It also is formulated with Provitamin B5, which will support natural lash thickness and strength. So if your lashes are thin or falling out, this product could really help. You will definitely get big volume with this BADgal!
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I just started using this mascara about 2 months ago. I received a sample from Sephora, and I fell in love with it! This mascara quickly became one of my go-to mascaras. Stila Huge Extreme Lash Mascara is a high drama formula that will give you volume, length, and curl. It's long wearing with a deep black color that does not fade. This is another formula that is made for building bold and volumous lashes. It's also been ophthalmologist tested, and will work for those of us with sensitive eyes.
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I LOVE, LOVE this KUSH mascara. It gives you thick, massive volume with just one coat. The color is so intense that it looks like you're wearing false lashes. This mascara has fibers, which I'm usually not a fan of since they tend to flake. The big selling point with the brand is that the mascara is made with Cannabis Oil, which conditions your lashes. The Hemp-derived cannabis oil hydrates your lashes even after you've removed your mascara. LOVE this one!
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This was a hard choice. The Milk Makeup KUSH High Volume Mascara was a close runner up,  but I had to go with the Hourglass Caution Extreme. This is a new product from Hourglass, and it is amazing! This is an all-in-one mascara that delivers length, crazy volume, and a big lift. The name says it all CAUTION EXTREME! This one is not for the shy. It gives a big dramatic look. The brush is really different, and helps extend your lashes. I know every mascara that comes out now says the brush is innovative, but this one really is. The smaller side of the brush  is perfect for definition. The fuller side really lays the mascara from root-to-tip for big volume with just one coat.  This mascara is also buildable, and the ultra black color achieves that false lashes look. Hourglass killed it with this formula, and I'll be wearing this one for a very long time. 

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Hi Everyone! Sorry for not posting my outfit of the day sooner this week. Time seemed to have gotten away from me. Here is the outfit I wore out Thursday night. My husband and I went to my friend's, Sophie Bréchu-West, art gallery called 571 Projects in Stowe. The talented artist Dorothy Simpson Krause was having a solo show, and since we are big fans of her art work we couldn't miss out. Afterwards we had a lovely dinner at  Edson Hill, which (can I just say) has the most charming atmosphere and tasty food.

The iconic wrap dress is an effortless and stylish dress every woman should own. In the 1970's Diane Von Furstenberg turned the wrap dress into a fashion revelation. The design was made to fit women in all the right places. All while being multifunctional for the modern woman to go from work to a night out. 

​Keep reading to get my full #OOTD! With the brands and links of where to find the same look.
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I just bought my DVF Carli Wrap Dress, and I'm in love with it! The pop of bright colors really makes this dress so much fun to wear. The light material combined with the wrap style, also kept me comfortable throughout the night. 

 I found some more affordable options for you guys, as well. This green pepper Ruffle Wrap Dress from Nordstrom is only $89. With similar fabric and use of ruffles it is a close match to the DVF Carli Warp Dress. 

If your looking for a bargain, here is the Faux-Wrap Mini Dress in Drapey Crepe from J. Crew, on sale now for $49.99. 
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The shoes I'm wearing are The Leigh 70 Pump from Stuart Weitzman. These shoes are both chic and comfortable. I picked the blue suede pump to bring out the blue in my dress, which you probably wouldn't have noticed otherwise. 

The Marc Fisher Tuscany Pump from DSW is the most affordable alternative I could find. The color isn't exactly the same, but still a pretty good option. These flats from Rebecca Minkoff are essentially the same light blue color, and even better if your not a heel kind of girl.
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My black clutch is from Rachael Zoe Box of Style | Winter 2017, which is not available for sale on its own.  Now I know I've mentioned Rachael Zoe's Box of Style before, but I'll reiterate myself and tell you guys to go and sign up for it now! There are always a variety of great finds for every season!

The True Decadance Black Square Box Clutch Bag from ASOS for $35 is extremely similar to my bag. It is a structured bag with a detachable chain. The only difference is that mine has silver accents, while the one from ASOS has a gold chain and trim. 

My earrings are called the Lagrange ball clip from Paul Morelli. These earrings are exquisite! Set with blue aquamarines and white brilliant diamonds.

If you want a similar earring for a more affordable price these Pavé crystal studs from Nordstrom are the way to go!
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My emerald ring & diamond and sapphire bracelet are both from Ferro Jewelers. The diamond ring & band is my engagement & wedding set. 

Let me know what you think about my #OOTD in the comments! If you enjoyed this post go ahead and subscribe to my blog:) 
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New video up now, where I review the new Dior Backstage Face & Body foundation. Check it out!! 

See below for all the products I used with links:

1) Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation 

​2) Primer, Double Tenseur from Sisley 

​3) The Hollywood Flawless Filter from Charlotte Tilbury 

​4) Match Stix Matte Skinstick from Fenty 

5) Prep + Prime Fix by MAC Cosmetics 

6) Cream Foundation Brush from Tom Ford 


If you enjoy this video subscribe to my channel on Youtube, and share with your friends. I'm always looking for feedback, so if you want to see more videos like this one let me know in the comments section. 
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Okay ladies so what is the first thing we do when we get home after a long day? Besides pouring yourself a glass of wine. That's right, you take off your clothes and you get into something comfy. Do you often cancel plans all because getting dressed in confining clothes seems like a hassle and too much effort? Well here is the solution, the "no pants trend." 

We have been seeing the trend of wearing no pants with oversized shirts, blazers, and jackets since about 2016. I know this is a bold fashion choice, but I decided to try out this new take on the mini. To my surprise I not only pulled off this trend, but I felt good doing it. 

Keep reading to get my full #OOTD! With the brands and links of where to find the same look.
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Here is my full look. Now, I know what your thinking; when in the world would I wear this outfit? Of course, you probably won't wear this going to grab your morning Starbucks or getting brunch with friends. I would say this outfit is best for going out for a night on the town. That's why I decided to post this OOTD on Saturday. Hopefully it will give you ladies some inspiration and a little courage too. 

My blazer is from Misha Nonoo and it's called the ​Florence Blazer Dress. I had to be very careful when picking out the top to wear for this look. You have to make sure your covering all your assets. The blazer from Misha Nonoo was perfect, it's oversized and long enough. 

Looking for a more affordable look for you guys was a little difficult. I wanted to stick with the blazer. I know some celebrities have been seen wearing XXL hoodies or T-shitrs, but the blazer is definitely the way to go with this look. The closest match was this black blazer from  Topshop.
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The shoes should really be the focus of attention with this outfit. The knee high suede boots I'm wearing are called The Alljack Boot from Stuart Weitzman. Right now they are on sale for an exceptional price of $383, originally they were priced at $765. 

A similar choice would be the Steve Madden Gorgeous Knee Boot for only $99. The boots are very similar, except the Steve Madden's heel is a little bit higher than mine. But a couple more inches never hurt anyone. 

The bag I'm carrying is a snake skin Prada with a chain link strap. That specific bag is no longer available. This Kate Spade emerson snake-embossed caterina bag is a close match. Or,  you could go with this very affordable Multi Chain Strap Shoulder Bag from Express, for $29.99 marked down from $49.90.
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The jewelry I decided to wear are all edgy but classic pieces at the same time. All the jewelry I'm wearing is unfortunately not available, but you can get some of them custom made. I will give you a break down of the specific designers and similar options you can choose from. 

My earrings are simple diamond studs. I have had my studs for over 10 years and wear them almost every day.  The ones I am wearing are a round diamond set in platinum.

Here are a few price points including real diamonds to CZ's.
These real diamond studs from Forevermar. 
A great alternative are these square studs for $32.

 My choker is from the designer Gellner, which I bought a few years back at Von Bargens Jewelry in Burlington. This Silver-Tone Black Leather Crystal Choker Necklace from Macy's is essentially the same style for a great price. 

The long chain necklace I'm wearing is a David Yurman, his Belmont Curb Link Four Station Chain Necklace with Black Onyx a close match. 

Finally, the cuff earring is Paul Morelli, which you can scroll to see it up close. This Black Fitzgerald Block Ear Cuff in Silver is a perfect and affordable option. 

So how did I feel trying something so out of my comfort zone? Pretty good, actually. I would say if you are in my age group you need to make sure everything fits perfectly. You should feel comfortable and at ease wearing a look like this. You could even put on a pair of black tights and a flat to make it more wearable. This is a good time to point out that it's best to have a great tailor who can tweak an outfit to fit you and make it perfect. 
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For the majority of modern women finding a daily face wash regimen is a major issue. The market is so oversaturated with products it becomes almost impossible to choose from. ​It seems like every face wash is dermatologist recommended. Or you spend hundreds of dollars on a complex regimen that is impractical to maintain for your day to day life.

This routine is well suited for any and all skin types/problems. If you have acne and you have tried every product out there I suggest taking a step back. You're probably over washing your face and causing more irritation.

On the other hand, there are some girls out there who neglect washing their face altogether. First of all you must wash your face at night no matter what! No excuses, even if you're exhausted, even if its 4AM, wash that face! From personal experience younger girls have a tendency not to think about or practice basic skin care, but the earlier you start the better your skin will age. 

Now in this post I hope to point women of all ages in the right direction of an easy and gentle daily face wash regime. 

​Step #1: Start with Bioderma to remove all eye and face makeup.

​For this step I like to use the Shiseido Facial Cotton which I buy from Sephora. Or you can just use a basic cotton ball. Whatever you use make sure to take the time to remove all your makeup. 

​Then rinse off with warm water (not hot or cold, be gentle). 

Bioderma is highly recommended with great reviews across the board. It's great for sensitive skin types, and its ingredients are specifically made to mimic the skins natural components. 

Step #2: Next I use Thayers toner.

Saturate a cotton pad (again for this I use the Shiseido cotton pads) and gently wipe the entire face; including your neck and chest. ​

​This product smells great, and it makes your skin feel super clean. I personally feel like this product calms my skin. 

Thayers is an alcohol-free toner made of rose petal water and aloe vera.

​Toner is specifically used to remove oil and dirt that builds up throughout the day. Toners are extremely helpful for those with oily or acne prone skin. Even if you don't have these problems it's great for every skin type just to remove the extra grime or makeup. 

Step #3:  After a few minutes of applying the toner wash your face with one of these two cleansers - Cetaphil or Philosophy Purity Made Simple. 

Use as much as you like, because this product is so gentle and won’t dry out your skin. Massage the product on your entire face, no rubbing!! Then rinse with warm water using a clean towel or the Eve Lom Muslin Cloths which I personally like to use.

Cetaphil is a great face wash for sensitive skin, but it works well on all skin types. Philosophy Purity Made Simple is another face wash that is extremely gentle and just a quality made product. You really cannot go wrong with either of these two.

Of course there are many face cleansers on the market that tackle a number of different skin issues, but both of these are highly recommended for all skin types. Plus both products are very affordable. 

Step #4: Last but not least, exfoliate your skin using Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash.

Take a little dab of the Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash in the palm of your hand, and using your finger tips lightly massage the scrub evenly in a circular motion all over your face and neck. DO NOT SCRUB when applying to your face, especially if your skin is sensitive or already irritated. Also, make sure to avoid getting the product near or close to your eyes. 

Even though this product is very gentle for an exfoliant I only use it twice a week. If you need to use it more I would suggest three times a week at most. Anymore then that will leave your skin feeling raw.

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Now lets break down each product and the total amount you'll spend on this specific regimen. 
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Bioderma: For a 16.7oz. bottle - $12.74 
Thayers: For a 12oz. bottle - $10.95
Cetaphil: For a 16oz. bottle - $9.49 or Philosophy Purity: For a 8oz. bottle - $24.00
Exfoliant: For a 8oz. bottle - $28.00

Total: $85.18 

Keep in mind this price is including both cleansers. Also, each product listed comes in a generous amount, so each of these should last you several months at least. 


I hope this post is helpful! Let me know what you think in the comments:) 
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