Easter Vacation

A while back I announced that I was turning Sensible Stylista into a full-on lifestyle blog. Sooo, I'm going to start writing more about my personal adventures on here! I haven't figured out a solid schedule yet, but I'll figure it all out eventually.  I'm actually thinking about posting daily again - I'm not quite sure how that's going to pan out because I'm super busy, but we'll see.  I'll try to keep it up for you guys!

Anywho, today's blast is all about my mini-Easter vacay.  I went back home to visit my family in Pittsburgh - my March was ridiculous so I was happy to get away.  Home is always a good time because my parents know how to spoil me.  As soon as I got back, they took me out to my favorite restaurant, Cala Lily Restaurant & Bar, for dinner.  If you ever visit the 'Burgh, you need to come here.  Like, seriously.  The food rivals NYC's finest - it's easily one of the best restaurants, if not THE best, in the city.  Everything here is magical!  I swear to god, Rick Rivera (the head chef) is a culinary genius.  I don't have a ton of food pictures for you guys because lighting was "eh," but I did the best I could!  It's always a struggle to get good photos in dim lighting - I'll keep working on it though.

To start, we got 2 apps plus a comped app from the chef!  We ordered poblano chili rellano (fire roasted and stuffed with drunken goat's cheese topped with a wine sauce) and portabello & crab florentine (baked with spinach, fontinella cheese and copious amounts of crab).  The comped app is pictured above.  I mean, look at that plate of deliciousness - it's borderline obscene!  The dish had poached scallops, shrimp and crab-stuffed squid.  I don't know the deets exactly because it wasn't listed in the menu, but I think the relish was made of beets, tomatoes, jalapeños, onions and apple. The sauce was citrusy and complemented the seafood perfectly.  

For entrees, my parents both ordered specials - Cala Lily has an extensive list each night!  My dad went with softshell crabs and my mom got angel hair pasta with crab-stuffed squid in a diablo sauce (aka spicy marinara).  I, very predictably, went with my all-time favorite:  pumpkin tortellini & jumbo crab in a rich alfredo sauce with julienne leeks and sun-dried tomatoes.  Each dish came with sides - pasta dishes come with a vegetable & all others come with both a vegetable + carb.  That night, the veggie was a creamy broccoli and cauliflower medley.  I wanted to try my dad's couscous, but it had red meat in it so I had to pass.  I don't know if I've told y'all, but I'm trying to turn vegetarian.  It's been three months or so since I've had red meat!  Now I just have to drop my bird friends.  It's been tough, but hopefully I'll be able to go hardcore soon.

After sleeping in - "sleeping in" now means waking at 9AM instead of 6-7, ha - my mom and I headed to Perkins to have a quick breakfast before hitting the Grove City outlet mall.  Their food isn't super fancy, but it's affordable, quick and tasty.  Plus, my parents and I love the staff.  We're regulars there so we pretty much know everyone.  They have great breakfast deals and bottomless coffee (!!!!) My mom and I actually both got the same $7 dish that morning: a three-egg mushroom & swiss omelette with pancakes (3).  We scarfed it down and jumped in the car!  The outlet mall's a good 40 minutes away from our house so we wanted to get there early-ish.  We thought it'd be totally swamped since it was Easter.

...but we were wrong, ha.  It wasn't busy at all!  My mom and I were thrilled because we had first dibs everywhere.  We didn't have to worry about parking, but as usual, we only hit up our favorite stores: Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, BCBGMaxAzria, Coach, Nine West, Polo Ralph Lauren, The Cosmetics Company and Harry & David.  To view the full directory, click here. Also, if you're looking to save moolah, make sure you purchase a coupon book at information (located in the food court).  Flip through before buying it though - you don't want to dole out cash if you're not going to save.  It's only $3 or so, but regardless, you don't want to waste money!  Note:  If you have triple A, they'll give you the booklet for free.

I ended up buying three things!  I scored a $3 scarf at Ann Taylor, $29.99 boots at Nine West and a sleeveless vest at Banana Republic for $25.  I wanted to take a haul pic for you guys, but lighting wasn't great so I passed.  I'll make sure to feature everything on here ASAP though.  Anywho, thanks so much for reading, everyone!  Shoot me a comment, and let me know if you enjoyed this blast. Sending y'all lots and lots of love from the DMV!

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Workwear Wednesday: Gold Pearls

For today's OOTD, I've partnered up with The Mint Julep Boutique for a chic office-friendly look.  I centered my latest ensemble around their Gift of Grace Dress.  Isn't it stunning?  I love that it works beautifully for work and play. The piece has a fair amount of stretch so you don't have to worry about feeling constricted.  Mine fits like a glove - it's super comfortable yet it hugs my curves nicely. Anywho, if your office is on the more conservative side, simply throw on a fitted blazer, a pair of tights, and nude closed-toe kitten heels.  If you're interested in purchasing this dress, click here.

I am head over heels in love with my pearl necklace from Jwholesale.  They have several colors available online, but my favorite by far is the gold.  For $13.60 (click here to purchase), you're getting a gorgeous set - they throw in earrings to match. Don't let the price deceive you though. Yes, it's inexpensive, but you're getting quality jewelry.  As always, let me know if you guys have any questions by commenting, tweeting, whatever.

Dress:  c/o Mint Julep Boutique || Necklace:  JWholesale || Shoes: Amiclubwear || Bag:  Burberry

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My Favorite Hair Tools

1.  colortraktools Croc Clips - If you're looking for solid styling clips, your search ends now.  These babies work like a charm!  They hold hair securely in place without tugging, and they hold a surprisingly large amount of hair.  For those of you interested, you can purchase a set of 4 for $8.99 HERE online at Sally Beauty.

2.  Lionesse Tourmaline Flat Iron - I'm straight up convinced that this 2" iron is magical.  It heats up in 30 seconds, reaching 450 degrees fahrenheit, and uses advanced infrared technology to prevent damage.  I really can't rave about it enough!  It just works SO well.  Your do will seriously look celeb-sleek.  It doesn't take much time either.  I used to own a Chi, and it took me a good 20 minutes to do my entire mane; now it takes me 5 minutes tops.  Now, this item does not come cheap ($300), but remember, you're paying for quality.  It'll be worth every penny in the end - think of it as an investment...a very expensive investment.

3.  Tangle Teezer Detangling Hairbrush - This tool is everything. If you have long hair, you need to purchase this stat.  It painlessly removes tangles and knots as it works through wet or dry hair.  The patented teeth formation bends and flexes, minimizing hair breakage and cuticle damage while adding shine.  Tip:  use it in the shower to brush to deep conditioners for pain-free detangling.  You're welcome in advance.  Available here in 4 different colors for $15.

4.  Sephora Ceramic Blow Dryer - Hands down, the best dryer I've used in years.  It takes a while to get used to the design because the buttons - 2 speed settings, 3 heat settings, and a cool shot button - are in an awkward place, but once you do, it's easy peasy lemon squeezy.  It dries hair quickly, and the finish is frizz-free.  The ceramic tourmouline seals in moisture while reducing drying time by up to 50 percent.  Also, the set includes two concentrator nozzles for precision air control, a nine-foot long cord, and a limited lifetime warranty - available here for $80 at Sephora.

5.  Tangle Teezer Blow Styling Tool - I absolutely LOVE this brush.  It works on all hair types and has innovative teeth to prevent pulling.  The product removes excess moisture from the hair shaft to guarantee a quicker blow-dry - a must-have for young professionals!  Available HERE at Sephora for $32.

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The Taupe Romper

I'm beyond excited to re-feature The Luk today on Sensible Stylista - if you missed my previous collaboration with them, no worries, simply click here to access the aforementioned post.  Anywho, I'm pumped to tell you guys all about my new romper. Firstly, it's available online here for $51.99 - don't forget to use code SS2016 to get an extra 20% off..  It's made of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, but it looks and feels like thick chiffon.  The store's known for fashionable yet affordable work attire, but I think this item works best for GNO or date night!  If you're looking to impress, definitely pick this baby up.  You'll look smokin' hot and be super comfortable at the same time.  For your reference, I'm wearing a size small, and it fits true to size.  

As you can see, I styled my romper with fierce animal print booties.  I wanted my look to pop so I went bold.  I bought these shoes online at Macy's a few weeks ago while they were on sale - I think I paid $24 or so?  Yeah, I absolutely love blowout sales (understatement of the year)!  Unfortunately for you guys, these are no longer available online, but I'll link other options for y'all below so keep scrolling!

For your browsing pleasure:

 Romper:  c/o The Luk ($51.99) || Bodychain:  Amiclubwear ($7.50) || Booties:  Nine West via Macy's

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Find of the Day: 5/48's Fur Trimmed Knit Vest

I'm super excited to tell you guys all about my latest find!  I recently purchased this gorg faux-fur vest online at Saks Off 5th for $39.99 - it was originally $110 so I got it for a really good price.  This knit is a serious must-have because it's a wonderful transitional piece.  I've been pairing it with maxi dresses as of late for cute spring-y ensembles.  It obviously depends on where you're based, but in MD (and PGH) it's still kind of chilly so the trim works.  Regardless, you should pick this up while you can because you'll get a ton of wear out of it during the Fall.  The item's a classic so you don't have to worry about it going out of style.  For those of you interested in purchasing this knit, click here.  Lucky for you guys, it's still available in all sizes.  

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Fabulous Light Outerwear

I'm super excited to share today's OOTD with you guys because I'm partnering up with Spiegel today on Sensible Stylista.  If you're looking for light outerwear, cop this jacket stat because it's perfect for spring - to purchase this item, click here.  For those of you wondering, it's available online for $54.

Skirt:  Banana Republic || Shirt:  Chaser || Necklace:  Happiness Boutique || Bag:  YSL || Jacket:  c/o Spiegel

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Obsessed with Burt's Bees Lipsticks

I am straight up obsessed with Burt's Bees new lipstick line.  There are 14 full coverage, satin-finish shades available in a variety of vibrant colors from pinks and corals to reds, nudes and mauves - browse them all here!  As you can see, I already own 5 different colors.  I love each and every one, but my personal favorite is Iced Iris because it transitions beautifully from work to play.  It's made of beeswax, moringa oil and raspberry seed oil so it's 100% natural. As a plus, the aforementioned ingredients offer 8 hours of intense moisturization so your pucker will look and feel great.  

These lipsticks are perfect for any and every occasion.  I recommend going with a neutral hue for a polished everyday look or applying a vampy shade for a hot date!  If you're really looking to step up your game, throw on a sexy LBD and rock a bright red lip - you'll break necks left and right.

The line's super versatile - you'll get a ton of use out of each individual color.  The lipstick's somewhat sheer so you can build your ideal shade.  Personally,  I prefer that because I like to layer hues - it's more fun and unique that way.  Also, please note that the finish is slightly glossy.  It's very pretty, but I wanted to tell you guys straight up in case that's a dealbreaker for any of y'all.

This post was sponsored by Burt's Bees but all opinions are my own!  Follow them on facebook and twitter to stay in the know.

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The Distressed Vest

I'm super excited to style my latest find of the day on Sensible Stylista.  I don't know if you guys remember, but I featured this sleeveless vest HERE last Friday and told y'all to keep an eye out for an outfit post. As promised, here it is!  I paired the piece with a striped tank and skinnies for a casual yet polished ensemble for today's OOTD.

This vest is everything! I seriously can't get enough of the distressed detailing.  For those of you wondering, I'm wearing a size small.  They don't carry this piece is extra-small, but this size should fit.  If you're interested in purchasing this vest, click here. It's currently available online at Black Petunia LA for $31.99 + free shipping.  To get an extra 10% off your purchase, enter code LAUNCH1 at checkout. On top of that, they're currently having a huge blowout sale (55% off!) so make sure y'all get your shop on.

Make sure you guys check out Black Petunia stat.  Here are some of my other favorite picks: left, middle, right.

A closer look at my new boots from Cat Footwear.  I am completely and utterly obsessed with these kicks.  I can already tell that I'm going to get a ton of wear out of them this spring!  I've been looking for cute warm-weather booties for god knows how long. If you're interested in these babies, they're available in three other colors here.

Last but not least, I want to tell you guys about my new crossbody courtesy of Armadio.  The brand was founded by three young NYC-based Italian entrepreneurs who took issue with the hefty markup on luxury leather goods in the US.  Being from Tuscuny, the leather capital, they know first hand that the pricing model in America was off so they sought to bridge the gap between the Italian craftsman and the American consumer.  They work directly with artisans to bring the highest quality local Italian leather brands and products at accessible price points.  They're a soon to be launched e-commerce marketplace featuring limited-run fine leather essentials straight from Italy.  These artisans who craft products for Armadio are the same who supply huge fashion houses like Gucci and Prada.  

Now, that brings me to their new (and very impressive) referral program.  Get involved with them early and gain access to their first collection.  By signing up and sharing a unique referral link (during March 8th-22nd) with friends/followers via email and social media, you can win a range of Armadio products.  50 referrals will get you the bag I'm currently carrying (retailed at $600) and150 will get ou a soft Nappa leather jacket.  Additionally, everyone with over 50 referrals will automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip to Tuscany to experience the local leather culture for themselves. Sign up HERE to join in on the fun.

Jeans:  Levi's || Boots:  c/o Cat Footwear || Bag:  c/o Armadio || Vest:  c/o Black Petunia || Tank: Chaser

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Sensible Stylista x Aesthetic Distance

I'm super excited for today's post because I'm telling you guys all about my experience with Aesthetic Distance.  Eliza, the founder of AD, is an accomplished photographer and makeup artist based in Baltimore, MD. After graduating from the University of Maryland, she got her masters in fine arts with a concentration in photography and graphic design.  She studied makeup artistry at the Won Lee International School of Aesthetics and then attended the Make Up For Ever Academy.  For our collaboration, Eliza directed and the lovely Courtney McCormick did my hair and make-up.

Courtney and Eliza epitomize professionalism, and on top of it all, they're smart, beautiful and fun! You'll feel totally comfortable working with them, and I guarantee that you'll love your photos if you decide to book them for portraits. I still can't get over how incredibly talented they both are.  Eliza's super articulate so her direction's easy to follow - she helped me execute my poses by instructing and demonstrating.  She also has an impeccable eye so lighting and backdrops are always on point.   Courtney, on the other hand, could prettify a rock! She totally transformed my face - I felt like I was ready to walk the red carpet!

Now, before I leave you guys, I need to talk to y'all about one last thing: Eliza's blog!  Not only is she an accomplished make-up artist and photographer, she's a killer blogger.  She writes about all things fashion and beauty, and she often features local talents and businesses in the DMV.  From interviews to helpful how-tos, you'll be completely hooked.

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Find of the Day: The Distressed Sleeveless Cardigan

I'm super excited to share today's find with you guys!  I am completely and utterly obsessed with my new sleeveless cardigan from Black Petunia.  Everything about this piece is a do, from the length to the slit back.  Although the model above is beautiful, the photos just don't do the cardi justice! I ordered this in size small, and it fits me perfectly.  If you're into distressed clothing, you'll absolutely love this item.  For those of you interested, this product's available HERE for $31.99 + free shipping. As a bonus, you can get an extra 10% off your purchase with code LAUNCH1.  

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International Giveaway: Win Clothing of Your Choice at PB&J Boutique

I'm super excited to blast yet another fabulous international giveaway today on Sensible Stylista.  I've partnered up with PB&J Boutique to raffle away some seriously cute swag!  For those of you unfamiliar with the brand, they're an ultra feminine online boutique with unique vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories.  They carry fancy brands like Free People, Darling, Seychelles, Stylestalker and more!  Yeah, their store legit.

Anywho, as always, entering is simple - I mean, there's only one mandatory rule.  It really doesn't get much easier! All you have to do is follow PB&J Boutique on instagram via rafflecopter , and you can further up your chances of winning by completing some or all of the bonus entries offered below. Good luck everyone!  This contest ends on April 8th, 2016.  Oh, and to get the hype going for this giveaway, I've shared some of my personal fave PB&J picks.  

 left || middle || right

  left || middle || right

 left || middle || right

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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The Prim & Proper Skater

I am beyond obsessed with my new dress courtesy of Tobi!  This fab piece, available in both wine and navy here, features a deep-v neckline with a lapel collar and cut-out back.  I dressed this item up for you guys today, but I could've easily worn it casually with flats or slip-ons. For my OOTD, I styled my skater with a lacy bralette and body chain for a fun night out.  I threw on a light black duster on top and wore tights for extra warmth.  As you can see, I'm shoeless in the photo below, but I wore sky-high black pumps to elongate my stems. Also, a huge thanks to my photographer Aesthetic Distance and my HMUA Courtney McCormick.

 Dress:  c/o Tobi || Bralette: c/o Gentle Fawn || Duster:  ShopSosie || Tights:  Hanes || Body chain:  Amiclubwear

Shop my look: 

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Keep Your Boka Beautiful

I'm super excited to talk about the importance of good oral hygiene today on Sensible Stylista.  Did you know that the American Dental Association recommends changing your brush once at least every three months?  Actually, even sooner if you're getting over a cold or flu to avoid spreading germs and reintroducing the virus to yourself.  To be honest, I used to be really lazy with my routine.  I mean, I brushed 2-3 times a day, but I wasn't so great with flossing and all that jazz.  However, after hearing dental horror stories from close friends and family, I started taking it all much more seriously.  Now, in addition to brushing 2-3 times a day, I use cocorinse in the morning and make sure to floss every night.  

I used to just buy whatever was on sale, but after trying Boka out, I'll never go back.  Their products are made with high-quality materials that are proven to deliver a comfortable, effective cleaning at a price point almost anyone can afford.  Their brushes are made with Binchotan activated charcoal bristles that help prevent bacteria from growing, and their minty toothpaste is made with natural ingredients and essential oils like peppermint and mint - no SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), fluoride, triclosan, artificial flavors or parabens.  Their floss, wrapped in natural beeswax, glides smoothly and expands between teeth to give you a super-clean mouth + gums.  It's free of both Teflon and petroleum.

Boka, a play on "boca" which means "mouth" in Spanish, delivers better oral care products right when you need them every 3 months.  Subscriptions are risk-free because you can cancel at any time, and as a bonus, I have a special discount code for you guys.  Enter STYLISTA25 at checkout to get 25% off any purchase - there are no limits, and you can use this on any product/subscription/gift set, but you can't combine it with any other offers/promos, and it can't be used more than once by the same individual.  This offer's valid until April 15th, 2016.  

One last thing before I leave y'all - I'd like to very briefly tell y'all about Boka's cocorinse (14 packets for $20).  Until now, I'd never heard of oil pulling, but let me tell you, it's awesome.  It's an ancient Ayurvedic technique for swishing.  It naturally cleanses and whitens without the use of harsh chemicals.  Made with organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil and infused with organic peppermint and spearmint oils, it reduces harmful bacteria and supports long-lasting fresh breath.  

Add it to your morning routine before breakfast/brushing for best results - it conveniently comes in single-use, recyclable packets!  Hold the packet in your hand to melt the mixture, swish it around - start with 5 minutes and work your way up to 10-20 - spit it out in the trash to avoid clogging pipes, and then brush normally.  As a plus, it conveniently comes in single-use, recyclable packets.   On top of it all, Boka donates a percentage of their profit to Surge to help provide clean water to those in need so it's basically a win-win situation.  If you have any questions regarding Boka, comment below and I'll get back to you ASAP.  You guys should know by now that I'm always here for you!

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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The Canvas Field Jacket

A while back, I featured this fringe tee in gray as a find of the day on Sensible Stylista - click here to see the aforementioned post.  I liked it so much that I picked it up in cream as well.  Lucky for you guys, it's still available in both colors - you can buy them here for $14.  For today's OOTD, I styled a polished yet comfortable look for y'all.  I paired my tee with jeans and light outerwear in honor of Spring! For those of you interested, my jacket's available at Old Navy for $45 in two colors.  I wore animal print sneakers for a pop of personality and carried my Dooney crossbody for a vintage touch.

Tee:  Old Navy || Jacket:  Old Navy || Jeans:  Levi's || Shoes:  Michael Kors (similar) || Bag:  Dooney & Bourke
Shop my look:

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Glam Life

Thanks to Courtney McCormick and Aesthetic Distance, I'm all glammed up today on Sensible Stylista!  I had such a lovely time working with the two of them.  I'll be writing a post on my experience in the near future so make sure to keep an eye out.  In the meantime, if you're looking for an amazing photographer or make-up artist in the DMV, you know who to contact!  Let me know if you need to get in touch with either - not only are they incredibly talented, they're beautiful, kind, and fun to work with.

For today's post I'll be telling you guys all about my new gown and jewelry.  Let's start with the latter! I'm absolutely loving my new earrings courtesy of J Wholesale - in case you're wondering, they've been around since 2012 as a jewelry supplier. They're made of gold burnish, are about 3.25" in length, and are also available in silver! If you're interested in buying them, click here. I really can't recommend J Wholesale enough!  Their baubles are super cute and affordable. Customers are required to purchase a minimum of $50, but keep in mind that you're getting a discounted rate!  Basically, you're getting a whole collection of accessories for the price of one. 

Moving on to my new gown courtesy of Amiclubwear!  I am head over heels in love with this dress. The embellished neck detailing is on point, and it's lightly padded so you can go braless.  The ruching's really cute, but if you're worried about your midsection, you may want to go with a different design.  On that note, if you're looking for ways to cover muffin top, check out "9 Ways to Cover Muffin Top with Fashion."  

 Dress:  c/o amiclubwear || Earrings:  c/o J Wholesale

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March Beauty Favorites

1.  L'oreal Pro Brow Kit ($14.99) -  This all-in-one brow kit is a godsend!  It contains pigmented wax, setting powder, tweezers, an angled brow brush and a spoolie - pretty much everything you need to primp your brows like a pro.  I start by tweezing stray hairs and then brushing them gently.  I then dip my brush into the wax to shape them and apply setting powder to fill in gaps (with the same brush).  I have fairly full brows so I can usually get away with whatever, but after using this kit, I can't do without it.  It's now an integral part of my everyday routine.  

For those of you wondering, my daily look is fairly simple - I literally take less than 5 minutes.  I slather on moisturizing sunscreen after washing my face and then use concealer to hide spots.  I do my signature cat-eye with liquid eyeliner and then quickly fill in my brows.  I then apply lipstick, gloss or whatever I'm in the mood for to finish off my look.

2.  It Cosmetics Superhero Mascara ($24) - I am head over heels in love with IT Cosmetics.  I seriously love everything they sell, and this product's no different.  Their new Superhero volumizing mascara is everything!  Infused with powerful proteins, strenghtening biotin, and Elastic Stretch Technology, it wraps each individual lash in a volume-boosting, lengthening and ultra-conditioning formula.  Start at the base of your lashes, wiggle and sweep up and through to the tips! If you want a custom lash look, layer away without fear.  I haven't experienced any clumping whatsoever so you guys should be good!

3.  L'oreal Pro Matte Gloss ($7.99) - Everyone seems to be obsessed with Kylie Jenner's matte Lip Kits, but I personally prefer L'oreal's glosses.  I like that her sets come with matching liners, but her products dry my lips out.  The Infallible line has a hydrating formula that keeps your pucker soft and smooth.  I especially love the funky applicator (aka the Petit Couer) - it helps you line your lips perfectly without effort!  I own, like, 9 different shades but my personal favorites are: Coral Sands, Blush and Shanghai Scarlet.  Note:  the product's technically supposed to last for 8 hours, but I think that's an overreach.  At best, it'll last you 3-4 so you'll definitely have to re-apply it throughout the day.  Also, if the shine bothers you, just blot some off - it'll leave a nice, deep tint.

4.  Chuda Healing Hydrating Cream ($150) - I'm sensible 95% off the time, but when it comes to skincare, I'm kind of a crazy person.  I'm not afraid to dish out moolah if it's for my face - natural remedies only though.  I don't have a problem with cosmetic surgery - if it makes you feel good, great - but it's just not for me.  

Chuda cream's formula is rooted in the centuries-old, skin-healing Remedea Compound, a 1000 year-old medicinal remedy created by the Turmanidze family in the early 1800s used in Russia and Georgia to heal skin.  It's also boosted by scientifically advanced, medical-grade actives clinically proven to deeply hydrate and rapidly heal dry, damaged and/or compromised skin. Created by Dr. Elena Ocher, a Georgian-born neurosurgeon, she believed it was something that could benefit more people so she teamed up with a world-renowned chemist to create this groundbreaking line.  With this cream, your skin's getting the optimal blend of antioxidants, vitamins and essential fatty acids. Safe for highly sensitive skin, use this product at night before you go to bed.

5.  Elizabeth Arden Flawless Future Serum ($60) - I haven't used Elizabeth Arden in years, but after using this serum, I am a born-again fan.  This unique liquid contains caplet mini-beads that activate when dispensed.  It helps fight early signs of aging by reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier and reducing the appearance of fine lines.  I use this after applying toner and layer cream on top for max moisture.  Allow the product to dry in between!  You just have to wait a minute or so.  

6.  Exuviance Gentle Cleansing Creme ($32) - Thanks to Brandbacker, I got a chance to try this baby out!  I've been a huge fan of Exuviance for god knows how long so I was thrilled to say the least. This gentle, soap-free formulation was created for sensitive skin to dissolve make-up and impurities without altering the skin's natural moisture balance.  It provides anti-aging benefits without irritation and improves skin's texture.  Wet your hands and face and massage it on in an upward circular motion.  Tissue it off or rinse with warm water before patting it dry.  You can use it both in the AM & PM, and it works well with all skin types.  

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