Style & Life – Page 24 – the elegant edit on fashion, beauty, and home

Sheet Mask Review

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SHEET MASK REVIEW

sPerhaps it is the quest for younger and more radiant skin that explains why I am always interested in new skin care products. Over the past few years, I have noticed a number of sheet masks being offered by different skin care brands and decided to order some different ones to try.

I first learned about sheet masks while vacationing in the French West Indies some years back…this gorgeous woman from Hong Kong told me about Korean skin care lines and how sheet masks were all the rage in Asia. At that time, sheet masks were not widely available in department stores or Sephora and so I ordered directly from a Korean website. I liked these masks and started integrating them into my weekly skin care routine. At that time, I was traveling three to four months a year and my skin needed as much help as possible. I now keep a few masks packed in my travel bag so I always have them available.

Sheet masks are a convenient way to infuse your skin with moisture and leave your skin soft and smooth. There are a variety of brands that have sheet mask options and I have highlighted a few of my favorites below.

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KARUNA

Karuna is the first sheet mask brand to launch in the U.S. and has an extensive assortment. Whether you need to moisturize, exfoliate or you have sensitive skin, there is an option for you. I have tried their brightening, anti aging, exfoliating, hand and foot masks and am pleased with the results. They are easy to apply and my skin feels fresh and hydrated after using.

Available at www.karunaskin.com.

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DR. JART

Dr. Jart, a skin care company founded by Dr. Jung, a Korean dermatologist, and Chin Wook Lee , works closely with a group of dermatologists from 15 different clinics to develop cutting edge dermatological products. In addition to their line of problem solving products, Dr. Jart has a collection of sheet masks. They have area specific masks-a Laugh Line Lift, Neck and Chin mask, as well as a Pore Minimalist, Wrinkles Solution and variety of other masks. I tried a few of their masks and was pleased with the results. My skin was smooth and supple after using.

Available at www.sephora.com.

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NANETTE DE GASPE

This luxury skin care line boasts a “revolutionary technology that offers women a truly delicate experience as well as immediate results without the need for surgery or the other intrusive approaches.” Sounds too good to be true? These masks offer a waterless formula that include a combination of powerful age renewal actives in a hydrating formula with ingredients that help stimulate the synthesis of collagen and elastin – visibly tighten the skin, improve skin texture and reduce the depth of wrinkles. While these masks are pricier than the others, each mask can be used 3 times. If I have an event, I will use them 3 consecutive days prior so that my skin is glowing.

Available at www.barneys.com

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SHISHEDO

Shishedo has an extensive skin care assortment that includes a retinol sheet mask. This sheet mask encourages skin’s natural recovery function and infuses skin with hydrating moisture to help improve texture. It smoothes fine lines and brightens your complexion.

Available at www.sephora.com.

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If your skin needs a quick pick me up, I recommend trying some of these masks. In only fifteen minutes, you can look refreshed and youthful. If you have recommendations, tell us in the comments below. Enjoy!

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 21.2017
Lovely Desk Accessories

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Lovely Desk Accessories

For most, we spend at least forty hours per week at work…for others, it may be more. Why settle for standard supplies when there are lovely desk accessories that will make your workspace as chic as your wardrobe? There is something special about opening my agenda, using a high quality pen and reviewing my calendar. It allows me to approach the day with a sense of calm and the ability to organize my thoughts and schedule. I also enjoy distributing a packet of documents with an gold or printed binder clip. I work in fashion, so these details are appreciated. Some careers need to be more serious, but, your desk is your space and you can customize as it suits you.

Unique paper clips, binder clips and other supplies are abundant on Amazon. Kate Spade offers a gorgeous collection of desk accessories, stationery…even file folders! Sugar Paper LA and Rifle Paper Company have a unique assortment of stationery and desk accessories.

Dress up that desk, since you will be spending a lot of time at work, you may as well make it as pretty as possible!

Bisous,
Rebecca

agenda, organizer, stapler available at www.katespade.com

gold binder clips, paperclips available at www.amazon.com

pen, cell phone case available at www.sugarpaper.com

f. 15.2017
Extending Kindness at Christmas

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Extending Kindness at Christmas

We will hear Andy William’s sing “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” on the radio, in restaurants and malls through the month of December. That is certainly how I feel when I start to see Christmas lights going up and smell pine scented candles everywhere. However, for many, the holidays are a time of painful memories, fear and disappointment. Instead of only creating a list of things you want to receive this year…why not also create a list of things we want to give this holiday season?

Here are some ideas on how we can extend kindness this Christmas.

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ADOPT A FAMILY

Now that I have a child, I cannot imagine being unable to afford any Christmas gifts for her or have a nice meal…find a family through a local non-profit organization and give a family in need a holiday they will always remember.

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HELP THE HOMELESS

Opportunities abound! You do not have to look far…find somewhere that is passing out food, shelter or clothing and show those less fortunate you care about their situation.

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DO HOSPITAL ROUNDS

Can you imagine being in the hospital during the holidays? Call your local hospital and find out the best way to visit patients that do not have loved ones with them. Bring cookies, flowers or a smile to brighten their day.

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS AND VETERANS

Put political views aside and take a moment to show gratitude to those who forfeit the comforts and security of home to protect our country. These brave men and women have given more than we can imagine to keep us safe.

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PLAY SECRET SANTA

sWe all know someone who is in a challenged or less fortunate situation…why not play Secret Santa and anonymously send a grocery store gift card, meal or gift? They will forever be wondering who took the time to show they care.

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For other ideas, visit post Extending Kindness at Thanksgiving…my guess is that you will probably experience as much joy as those receiving the kindness.

Happy Holidays to all!

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 8.2016
And We’re Back…

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And We’re Back…

After a 1.5 year hiatus…Style & Life returns. When I found out I was pregnant, I became overwhelmed with the idea of juggling family, career, blog and all other things. As is usually the case, things are usually worse in your mind than anywhere else. After taking a few months to endlessly kiss baby cheeks, I got into routine and found the creative side of myself needing an outlet. And, so, here we are. When I think of Style & Life, I think of us as your go-to friend when you don’t know what to wear, the place where you hear a new beauty tip that adds a bit of pizzazz to your makeup routine or when you need a fresh recipe for a dinner party. That’s who we are. I hope you enjoy the new content and look forward to much more.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2016
One Two Lash…Making Beauty Effortless

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One Two Lash…Making Beauty Effortless

One of my dearest friends did what many aspire to do…she quit her prestigious, well-paying job to follow her dream. As the age old story sometimes goes, many asked why she left such an amazing career, but, smiling in the face of naysayers, she invented something to make our lives easier. Magnetic false lashes. Genius. Simply genius.

For those who have had the painstaking experience of applying false lashes, it’s a messy event. Glue, dropped lashes, positioning and repositioning. I have never mastered the skill. Disappointing, because I feel false eyelashes emphasize your eyes and make me feel glamorous.

One Two Lash has micro magnets on they sandwich your natural eyelashes. I personally like to put on my mascara before applying. They are so easy to use that you can wear them every day. It takes a bit of practice to learn how to apply, but, once you learn you will not forget and application adds less than a minute to your morning routine. What I like the most about these lashes is that the Originals are natural looking enough to wear every day. There are accent lashes included in the set so you can make them fuller if desired. Bold are perfect for a night out. Voila. We knew there had to be a better way. My friend, Katy Stoka, actually found it. Available for purchase at www.onetwolash.com.

Bisous,
Rebecca

**mascara is mine and not included

f. 24.2016
Fall 2016 Beauty Report

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Fall 2016 Beauty Report

What faster way is there to keep your look current than incorporating a few fall beauty trends? Below is Style & Life’s Fall Beauty Report and you will find five simple beauty trends that will keep you looking fabulous.

MATTE NAIL POLISH

Give your nails a bit of edge this fall and layer a matte topcoat over any polish. I believe this looks best on shorter, natural nail shapes and especially like how it looks on dark colors…navy, grey and purple. Some good matte topcoat options are Zoya Matte Velvet Top Coat and Smith & Cult Top Coat Flatte.

LUSCIOUS LIPS

While it seems to be a trend every fall, dark and dramatic lips always make me feel it is time to start wearing sweaters, autumnal colors and additional layers. I usually like to keep my lip color on the lighter side but it is fun to change up your look and add a pop of color. If you do not want to look severe, try a berry or brick color.

BLACK IS BACK

As in eyeliner…this trend was featured in many Fall 2016 runway shows like Chloe, Nicole Miller, Roberto Cavalli and Monique Lhuillier. Liquid, powder, pencil or gel…the method is up to you but black eyeliner adds serious sex appeal for fall evenings out.

TOP KNOT

Knots…messy and polished alike graced the Fall 2016 runway shows at Celine, Dior and Marchesa. This trend is a favorite of mine because it looks natural and is easy to achieve. I especially like the braided versions.

CROWNED JEWELS

Beautiful hair jewelry was featured at Sonia Rykiel, Dolce & Gabbana and Erdem. This trend can dress up a casual daytime look or add some sparkle into your holiday ensemble.

Try incorporating some of these beauty trends this fall to keep your look fresh. I hope you feel gorgeous!

Bisous,

Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 20.2016
Brunch for Overnight Guests

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Brunch for Overnight Guests

The holidays are here and so is the season for overnight guests. It can be challenging when you need to wake up ready to entertain. See below for a few brunch recipes that will allow you to prepare the night before so you wake up feeling ready to roll out the hospitality for your guests.

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EGG “SOUFFLE” WITH CHEDDAR AND MUSHROOMS

This is not a traditional souffle but it is easy and can be prepared the night before.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 lb. sliced mushrooms

1/2 cup chopped onion

24 eggs

1 cup milk

2 tsp salt

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh chives for garnish, if desired.

In saucepan, heat butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and onions; cook until softened, about 10 min. Remove from pan; let cool. Lightly coat a 13″ by 9″ glass baking dish with nonstick vegetable spray. In large bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt. Pour mixture into dish. Place cooled vegetables in bowl of food processor and process until chopped; do not puree. In medium bowl, beat heavy cream with electric mixer on high until thickened. Fold in vegetables. With rubber spatula gently spread vegetable mixture over eggs, covering them completely. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight. Heat oven to 250 degrees Farenheight. Sprinkle souffle with cheese. Bake, uncovered, 1.5 hours or until eggs are cooked through. Garnish with chives. Serve immediately.

Source: In Style, June 2001

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STRAWBERRY GOUDA SPINACH SALAD

If you have been to a brunch I have hosted, you have eaten this salad. It is a crowd pleasing staple. You can easily prepare the night before so that all you need to do in the morning is toss in vinaigrette and serve!

6 oz/6 cups of fresh baby spinach

2 cups sliced strawberries

1 cup halved seedless red grapes

1/4 cup thinly sliced sweet onion

7 oz gouda cheese, cubed (about 1 cup)

Poppy Seed Dressing:

1/4 cup vegetable oil

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

2 tablespoons minced shallot

2 tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons poppy seeds

1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

In small bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well blended.

Sugared Almonds:

In small heavy skillet, cook 1/2 cup almonds and 3 tablespoons sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar melts and almonds are lightly toasted. about 5 minutes. Spread on parchment paper to cool Break apart, if needed. Store in airtight container. Makes 1/3 cup.

Source: The Best of Dierbergs

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BERRIES AND BRIE BREAKFAST BAKE

5 large eggs

1 cup milk

1/3 cup pure maple syrup

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

6 cups cubed French bread

6-8 oz brie, rind removed and cut into cubes

1 cup fresh blueberries

For Serving:

2 cups chopped fresh strawberries

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Spray a 2-3 quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside

In a medium bowl, add the eggs and beat with a fork or whisk. Add in the milk, maple syrup, vanilla and cinnamon. Whisk until well combined.

Add half the bread cubes to the prepared baking dish. Top with half the brie and then half the blueberries. Top with the remaining half of the bread cubes, then the remaining half of the brie and blueberries. Evenly pour the egg mixture over the top.

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and transfer to the refrigerator. Let sit for 8 hours or overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Add the strawberries, granulated sugar and vanilla to a small bowl. Mix to combine. Let the mixture sit while you bake the dish.

Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and then cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes then remove the foil and make for another 15-20 minutes. Let stand for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

To serve, top each portion with a good amount of the strawberries and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar.

Source: Cook Nourish Bliss

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For a simpler option, read my post on Pumpkin Scones at www.styleandlife.com/pumpkin-scone-recipe-beauty-essex. It features a delectable recipe from Bon Appetit that can be prepared in advance and popped in the oven. The aroma from these scones baking is enough to make your guests extend their trip.

Bisous,
Rebecca

photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 19.2016
Three Coconut Oil Beauty Treatments

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Three Coconut Oil Beauty Treatments

Never quite understanding the hype about coconut oil for its many uses, I had always enjoyed cooking with it. After having a baby and finding my skin incredibly dry, I was desperate for a solution. My pediatrician recommends coconut oil for a host of baby concerns…including slathering it on post bath. After trying many creams and oils, I decided to try it myself and am now a convert. Coconut oil, like avocado and salmon, is chocked full of healthy saturated fats, which helps skin stay hydrated. The overall appearance gives your skin a healthy, smooth glow. I also like the smell. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. I like to put on a fluffy robe after applying to make sure it soaks in. While its seems to come out of most clothing easily, I ensure it is absorbed before wearing silk or other delicate fabrics. See below for a few ways I incorporate it into my beauty routine.

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MIRACLE MOISTURIZER

Post shower or bath, mix a generous amount of coconut oil with a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Wrap up in a fluffy robe while it absorbs. Your skin will be soft and supple.

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DETOX BATH

My go-to weeknight form of relaxation is a hot bath..it helps me unwind. Epsom salts are great for detoxifying, combine 2 cups Epsom salts with 1 cup coconut oil and add to warm water.

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SUPER SCRUB

Mix 1 cup coconut oil with 1 cup coconut sugar, rub over rough patches and rise. Be careful, shower can become slippery.

Theses tips should keep your skin feeling soft and smooth.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 19.2016
Taking Care of Mother Earth

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Taking Care of Mother Earth

We live in a beautiful world…the ocean, mountains, desert, trees and flowers. I have always aspired to be conscious of the planet and been an advocate of recycling but I still have opportunity to improve. I want future generations to experience this world the way we have and listed a few ways we can increase our mindfulness towards taking care of Mother Earth.

RECYCLE

I am guessing most of you already recycle some things…however, are you aware of everything that can be recycled? There are more things than you realize including paper towel rolls, batteries and cell phones. Visit www.epa.gov/recycle for a comprehensive list. If you aren’t using reusable grocery bags, be sure to return the plastic bags to the grocery store so they can be recycled.

PICK UP TRASH

Whether its yours or not, show Mother Earth a little kindness and pick up trash that comes along your way and dispose of properly.

REDUCE WATER CONSUMPTION

Instead of letting your water run while you brush your teeth or preparing a meal, use it sparingly. We are fortunate to have clean water; lets not waste this precious resource.

USE YOUR LEGS

Help reduce air pollution and take a walk or ride your bicycle instead of driving…this also allows you to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise.

SAVE ENERGY

If you are not in the room, turn the light off, if you are cooking, close the refrigerator, if you are not watching it, turn off the television. Shut off your computer when you are finished using it and turn your thermostat up when you are not home. Not only does this help save energy but also it reduces your electric bill.

If each of us does just a little bit more to increase our consciousness towards Mother Earth, it will add up to a significant impact for our planet.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 18.2016
Canasuc Sugar..simple forms of elegance

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Canasuc “The Art of Sugar”

After enjoying an afternoon of macarons and champagne at Laduree on the Champs Elysee one fall day (their champagne bar is divine), we were wandering in and out of shops and I discovered these beautiful little sugars that are made in different shapes…hearts, butterflies…all kinds of fun pieces. Of course, I had to purchase a few boxes. These are my favorite finds when traveling…unique items you haven’t found elsewhere.

Upon returning, I researched the company a bit more and learned that Canasuc was founded in the early 1990’s when Pierre Bosc-Bierne was enamored with the candy stick. The small sugar cane “canne a sucre” in French became the name of the company. They have a lovely assortment of candy sticks, decorated sugar and molded sugar and have transformed something that could be basic…a sugar bowl or packet into a piece of art.

These are an elegant addition to a brunch or after dinner coffee. Each time I serve them, they are always a conversation piece. I order from Selfridges as canasuc.com is not yet shipping to the US.

Hope you try these sweet treats for your holiday celebrations!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 17.2016