You can find accessories details in today’s 30 Dresses post here!

Miraculously, warm weather has FINALLY arrived in New York City and I could not be happier (or more relieved).  With sunshine comes drinks on the roof, dinner al fresco, backyard barbecues, waterfront parties and lazy days on the beach.  Of course, all of this outdoor activity in heat and humidity requires some adjustments to the ol’ makeup routine, which, for me, is mostly aimed at making myself look as much like Jennifer Lopez as possible.  When you’re out in the sunshine, you don’t want to have caked-on makeup, you just want that subtle, natural, J. Lo glow.  Amiright?

Sadly, God did not bless me with her flawless, ageless Puerto Rican skin, however, God did give me an internet connection and access to the Nordstrom beauty department.  Today, I’m breaking down seven easy-to-use products that will give you the perfect summertime glow.  Six of these products I’ve used for many years, and one is a brand new favorite that I’ve completely fallen in love with…   

1.  // Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Glow Pads

These little pads are simply one of THE. BEST. beauty products on the market; I’ve been using them religiously for years.  To start, they provide the most natural, streak-free sunless tanning glow and since I’m careful about keeping the sun off my face (because wrinkles!), these are mission-critical in helping to keep my face from looking ghost-like in the summer months.  BUT THAT’S NOT ALL FOLKS.  These little pads are also loaded with tons of anti-aging benefits, most prominently, alpha and beta hydroxy acids.  If you read my recent skincare memo all about exfoliation, you know that acid exfoliation is one of the most important parts of my skincare routine (and hopefully yours too!).  It’s the unique combination of the subtle color with the AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin D and other skin-nourishing ingredients that leave your skin truly GLOWING after one use of this product.  I can’t recommend them highly enough.

2.  // Mario Badescu Facial Spray

In the summer, I keep one of these in my bathroom and most days, I carry a second one in my purse.  Here’s the deal: this amazing spray provides a cooling boost of hydration that’s packed with antioxidants.  I use it in the morning under makeup to infuse more hydration before applying moisturizer, but I also spray it on top of my makeup whenever I need a pick-me-up (i.e. after a long day when things start to look tired and/or dried out.  When I spray it on top of makeup, it brings everything alive and creates the prettiest dewy finish.  For an extra cooling boost, you can even store this in your refrigerator.  Definitely a summer must-have for me.

3.  // Laura Mercier Radiance Foundation Primer

As you know, this Laura Mercier radiance primer has been my go-to for years.  It really keeps foundation in place and also gives you a little bit of that “glowing from within” radiance.  I typically wear matte foundation, but starting with this product really helps achieve that perfect summertime glow.

4.  // Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter

My Shade:  4 – Medium

This is the newest product in my makeup bag and I’m utterly OBSESSED.  I don’t even fully know how to describe this product.  It’s like a lightweight foundation, a highlighter and a primer had a weirdly perfect baby.  On low-key days where I’m going for that no-makeup look, I simply apply a thin layer of this product all over my face with nothing other than a little mascara and blush. And, as the name suggests, it honestly looks like I have that glowy snapchat filter IRL.  You can use it as a primer, mix it with your foundation, use as a highlighter or apply all over.  It’s the best and absolutely perfect for a minimalist summer beauty routine.

5.  // TOM FORD Shade & Illuminate Highlighter & Shader Duet

My Shade:  Intensity Two

This cream contour palette, in my humble opinion, is the best on the market and another summer must-have.  It’s a little pricey, but honestly, I have used this palette almost every single day for the past two years and I still have tons left.  (I know, I know there are rules about throwing away makeup after one year, but I swear I clean my brushes like crazy, etc. etc.)

This contouring duet comes in two shades depending on your skin tone and the fact that it’s a cream product is the key to creating a natural, dewy look.  The highlighter side provides a completely translucent subtle shimmer, perfect for dabbing on the tops of your cheekbones, down the bridge of the nose, on your cupid’s bow and right under the arch of your eyebrows.  As for the darker contour side, I place this right under my cheekbones and at the top of my forehead, to add subtle structure and definition.

6.  // Laura Mercier Facial Illuminator

Shade:  Indiscretion

On a regular day, I will often skip the highlight side of the above Tom Ford palette (since it has a stronger effect) and will just dust a little of this highlighter on the tops of my cheekbones, down the bridge of my nose and right beneath the arch of my eyebrows.  I feel that I have a little more control with this powder product on days when I only want the most subtle highlight.  If I have a special occasion, I will typically use the highlight side of the Tom Ford Contouring Duet above, and then set that cream product with a light dusting of this Laura Mercier highlighter over the top.  Like the Tom Ford highlighter, this product is the perfect color (it also comes in a few other shades depending on your skin tone), is not sparkly, and blends beautifully.

7.  // Nars Bronzing Powder

Shade:  Laguna

I’ve been using this Nars bronzer since high school and there’s no question that NARS wins the bronzer game.  I use this on my face and even dust some on my chest and shoulders in the summer.  It has a very subtle shimmer, but looks totally natural and never orange which is the danger with most bronzers.  Also, their Laguna shade somehow magically works on absolutely every skin tone.

DRESS: c/o Boden  |  SHOES: c/o Boden

If you’ve followed this blog from the beginning, you know that the quintessentially-British brand Boden really speaks my language—both literally and figuratively.  Their classic, tailored, feminine silhouettes with just the right amount of color and quirk never disappoint.  It’s this commitment to timeless British style that has me coming back again and again (perhaps a little too often), and their spring collection is no exception.  Every single piece is both easy-to-wear yet perfectly polished—a chord the Brits always manage to strike—and at an affordable price to boot.

For today’s Garden Party theme of the ongoing 30 Dresses in 30 Days series, it seemed apt to go with a favorite British brand and a classic, airy silhouette.  The vintage-inspired chambray midi dress is one of those dresses that would look as perfect at a dressy Garden Party or ladies luncheon as it would heading to weekend brunch or a day at the beach.  Of course, it’s the details that make the dress—the white broderie anglaise embroidery and scalloped sleeves?  I’m a goner.  It’s likely no surprise that the red version is currently in my shopping cart.

DRESS: c/o Boden  |  SHOES: c/o Boden

Thanks to Boden for partnering on this post! 

TOP: Prose & Poetry   |  SKIRT: Prose & Poetry |  SHOES: Alexandre Birman  |  BAG: Stella McCartney  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs (old, similar HERE)

Wedding season is officially upon us and with that comes the deluge of wedding-related festivities.  Today’s 30 Dresses look is all about what to wear to a Bridal Shower—an event that many find surprisingly tricky to dress for.  As you may have noticed, my ensemble today is not technically a dress—it’s separates!  I couldn’t pass it up after spotting these dreamy coral pieces at Nordstrom, and below I discuss exactly why I chose to include it in the dress series.  But first!  Here are a few general rules on what to wear to a bridal shower:

1. DON’T WEAR WHITE // This rule applies to all wedding-related events.  You have the entire spectrum of the rainbow to pick from, so leave anything white, ivory, champagne, or super pale blush for the bride.  If you’re wondering whether it’s too light, it is.  Err on the side of caution.
2. DON’T BE TOO FLASHY // Again, this rule applies to all wedding-related events.  In addition to avoiding white, don’t wear a gold lamé mini dress or anything that screams “look at me!”  Not only is it inappropriate for most daytime bridal showers, but it’s also the bride’s day, so don’t try to steal any of her thunder.
3. DON’T WEAR BLACK // Black is generally too somber for a daytime bridal shower.  Wear a color or print that feels more celebratory like a cheerful floral or the coral ensemble I have on today!
4. TAKE NOTE OF THE VENUE // When evaluating how dressy you need to be, take note of the bride, the hostess and most of all, the bridal shower venue on your invitation.  If it’s being held at an upscale tea room, you know to be daytime dressy.  If it’s being held in someone’s backyard and the invitation has a rustic vibe, you might wear a more casual sundress or maxi dress.

Now, how did these separates make the cut for the 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series?  Well, I do have a weakness for coral.  But more importantly, I wanted to include at least one set of coordinates to remind you (and myself!) that they can be the MVPs of your summer wardrobe.  Worn together, you’ve got what looks to be a dress.  Worn separately, the options are endless.  I can’t wait to wear the top solo with white wide-leg jeans (like this pair).  Similarly, this skirt would look perfect with a classic button-down shirt for the office.

If you’re looking for more ideas on what to wear to a bridal shower, check out Nordstrom’s Bridal Shower picks here (they’re phenomenal) and a few more of my favorites below!

TOP: Prose & Poetry   |  SKIRT: Prose & Poetry |  SHOES: Alexandre Birman  |  BAG: Stella McCartney  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs (old, similar HERE)

Thanks to Nordstrom and ShopStyle for partnering on this post!

DRESS: c/o Jovani  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo (affordable alternative HERE and HERE) |  BAG: Stella McCartney (affordable alternative HERE)

If you’ve been following my ongoing 30 Dresses in 30 Days series, you know it’s safe to say that I have a black belt in dress shopping.  Now that the series is in its fifth season, my dress shopping skills are finely-honed, thanks in large part to my shortlist of go-to dress designers like Jovani that never fail to surprise and delight.  Of course, this season was no exception as evidenced by the black lace beauty I’m wearing for today’s occasion—a cocktail attire wedding.

Today I’m breaking down everything you need to know about cocktail wedding attire but before getting into the rules of the road, I should note that if you’re prepping for any upcoming special occasion—cocktail attire or not!—definitely take a virtual walk through Jovani’s insane collection which is sold at Neiman Marcus, Harrod’s and countless specialty boutiques worldwide.  Their assortment is incredible, ranging from perfect cocktail dresses (like the one I’m wearing today!) to stunning gowns perfect for a rehearsal dinner or black-tie event.  I’ve even spotted several that would make absolutely amazing Mother of the Bride dresses—something I know is no easy find!

Without further ado, a simple style guide to what cocktail attire means, what colors are appropriate and what the difference is between cocktail attire and black-tie optional…

WHAT DOES COCKTAIL ATTIRE MEAN?

Cocktail attire means any formal dress that’s tea-length and above. Just remember that this is a family affair, so you don’t want to go too short or too revealing.  If the ceremony is in a church and you’ve opted for a strapless or spaghetti strap number (anything with a good amount of skin showing), I’d suggest wearing a wrap, stole or jacket for that portion of the evening.

WHAT COLORS ARE APPROPRIATE?

Aside from avoiding anything white or ivory, the world is your oyster!  When wearing a black dress, I like to make sure that the somber tone is balanced by some other celebratory element, like the lace and beading in today’s Jovani dress.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COCKTAIL ATTIRE AND BLACK TIE OPTIONAL?

For the most part, you can approach cocktail attire and black tie optional in the same way. The only exception is if you want to wear a formal floor-length evening gown, then you should really only wear one if the invitation says Black Tie Optional and your date is wearing a tuxedo. If it’s black tie optional and your date opts for a suit, go for a cocktail dress that’s tea length or shorter. If you don’t have a date, try to touch base with other wedding guests and get a sense for whether most men in attendance (or at least the guys at your table) are wearing tuxedos. When in doubt, however, opt for a cocktail dress.

Check out Jovani’s full collection here, their boutique locator here, and if you live in Los Angeles, be sure to swing by their gorgeous Beverly Hills flagship store!

DRESS: c/o Jovani  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo (affordable alternative HERE and HERE) |  BAG: Stella McCartney (affordable alternative HERE)

 

Thanks to Jovani for partnering on this post!

DRESS: Mac Duggal  | SHOES: (old, similar HERE) | BAG: Diane Von Furstenberg

We’re doing some maintenance on the 30 Dresses portal so I’m posting today’s black tie wedding dress, styling tips and additional favorites here!

Styling Tips

Black tie weddings can be tricky. While the men will elevate their looks to tuxedos, women can often get away with anything from formal cocktail dresses to ballgowns, depending on the crowd and the venue. In most cases, black tie events call for a floor length gown but do your best to gauge the event, finding out what the hostess (typically the mother of the bride) and other guests plan to wear. If you don’t feel like wearing a floor-length gown, go with a formal cocktail dress or a high-low option.

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

DRESS: Mac Duggal  | SHOES: (old, similar HERE) | BAG: Diane Von Furstenberg

DRESS | SHOES | BAG | SUNGLASSES | EARRINGS (vintage, similar HERE)

STYLING TIPS

Channel your inner Kate Middleton with an elegant midi-length dress. Go for something with feminine, classic details and avoid strapless, spaghetti straps, and anything super revealing.

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS | SHOES | BAG | SUNGLASSES | EARRINGS (vintage, similar HERE)

The Best Croissants in New York City

As you may have gathered from my instagram last week, Rich and I just got back from a quick work trip to Paris where we basically ate nothing but croissants for four days.  To alleviate the withdrawal symptoms we’ve been experiencing since returning to NYC, we’ve made more than one run to our favorite neighborhood bakery—Arcade Bakery—which just so happens to make the hands-down BEST croissants in New York City.  You don’t have to just take my word for it, The Infatuation and a whole host of other bonafide foodies agree.  They’re only open on weekdays and are (strangely) located in the ground floor of an office building on Church Street in Tribeca.  Nevertheless, their buttery croissants, danishes and pastries are every bit as good as those found in Paris, you will dream about them for years.  When you go, be sure to try the chocolate walnut babka or the s’more danish as well.  They can do no wrong.

Invisibobble Coiled Hair Ties

I constantly get asked about the spiral hair ties that you can often see me wearing on my wrists on instastories, so thought I’d post the link here.  These hair ties have gained a ton of popularity over the past several years because they do an amazing job of holding your hair (even thick, heavy hair!) without pulling, causing damage or creating creases.  They’re the only hair ties I’ve used for the past several years, and their coiled, spiral bands also help create the perfect loose-looking messy bun, which is how I typically wear my hair when it’s up.  Even after wearing your hair up for hours in these suckers, it will be kink-free and look just as you styled it before putting it up.  They come in a variety of shades to match your hair color, but I typically just go with the clear variety from Sephora, or here on Amazon.  Pro tip: if they get stretched out, just blow a little hot air from your hair dryer on them and they’ll shrink right back to size.

Alice and Olivia Denim

Alice and Olivia, one of my favorite brands, just launched a new denim collection and surprise, surprise, they’re incredible.  I am the proud owner of this pair of skinny jeans and the fit and feel is utterly perfect so I’m going back for more and purchasing this pair of white skinnies for summer.  I’m actually wearing the blue skinny jeans today to the office, so will snap a picture and share it on instagram pronto for you to see!

The Best Umbrella I’ve Ever Owned

I’ve seen these clear umbrellas on TV and IRL for a million years but it wasn’t until I endured the insanely blustery, rainy spring we had here in NYC that I finally decided to hunt one down.  Needless to say, I’m completely, utterly OBSESSED.  First off, the shape of this umbrella is key.  It creates a far better protective dome around you than any of my more “compact” umbrellas, which are fine in a light drizzle, but if we’re talking serious rain (and accompanying wind) the protective dome is game changing.  Also, I always assumed the clear plastic canopy was just an aesthetic choice and never realized how unbelievably practical it is.  You know the tunnel-vision you experience when you’re huddled under an opaque umbrella canopy because you can’t see where you’re going?  Not any more.  The clear plastic allows you to stop running into buildings and nailing people in the face with your umbrella.  It’s magical.

Electronic Luggage Scale

Rich and I have had this electronic luggage scale for years and it’s arguably the best $12 I’ve spent on Amazon.  I do not understand the physics of how something so small can accurately weigh a giant piece of luggage, but somehow, it never fails.  Not only do we use it before leaving for a trip to make sure our checked luggage is under the limit (you’re likely shocked to hear that I’m occasionally known to overpack…) but we also always bring it with us (it’s tiny and weighs virtually nothing) so that we can weigh our suitcases when packing to come home as well—either because we’ve made purchases while traveling or simply don’t remember how we distributed our belongings across suitcases and need to make sure everything is underweight.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the next installment of 30 Dresses in 30 Days later today!!

DRESS: See By Chloe  |  SHOES: Stuart Weitzman  |  BAG: Stella McCartney  |  EARRINGS: Chanel (vintage, similar HERE)

 

STYLING TIPS

Whether you’re headed to a baptism, a dedication or any such religious ceremony celebrating a new baby, you want to dress up but be daytime appropriate and conservative. Don’t wear anything too short and if your dress doesn’t cover your shoulders come prepared with a wrap for the ceremony. Otherwise, be prepared to eat, drink, be merry and enjoy the cuteness overload!

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS: See By Chloe  |  SHOES: Stuart Weitzman  |  BAG: Stella McCartney  |  EARRINGS: Chanel (vintage, similar HERE)

 To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS: Mango  |  BELT: Chloe  |  SHOES: Manolo Blahnik  |  CLUTCH: Old, similar HERE  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs  |  EARRINGS: Chanel (vintage, similar HERE) 

STYLING TIPS

Four tips for a winning interview look: (1) invest in a well-fitting, tailored ensemble, making sure nothing is too low-cut, too tight or too short; (2) make sure your shoes are polished and practical; (3) keep accessories simple; and (4) go for minimal, fuss-free hair, nails and makeup.

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS: Mango  |  BELT: Chloe  |  SHOES: Manolo Blahnik  |  CLUTCH: Old, similar HERE  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs  |  EARRINGS: Chanel (vintage, similar HERE) 

DRESS: Goat  |  CLUTCH: Old, similar HERE  |  SHOES: Manolo Blahnik  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs

STYLING TIPS

When it comes to client meetings, you want to take your professional style from worker bee to girl boss. Dress professionally, but don’t be afraid to up the ante from a basic suit. If you’re not sure, err on the formal side. It’s always better to be over-dressed than under-dressed!

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS: Goat  |  CLUTCH: Old, similar HERE  |  SHOES: Manolo Blahnik  |  SUNGLASSES: Le Specs

DRESS: Mango  |  PUMPS: Old, similar HERE  |  TOTE: Old, similar HERE  |  SUNGLASSES: Karen Walker  |  EARRINGS: Argento Vivo

STYLING TIPS

You always want to stay professional when it comes to hemlines and necklines, but this doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style.  Sticking to classic silhouettes is always a safe bet in a professional environment, but look for dresses in lightweight fabrics that will be comfortable in the summer heat.  Add an on-trend pinstripe and a few cute details like the buttons at the waist on the dress I’m wearing today, and the look is work-friendly and chic to boot.

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS: Mango  |  PUMPS: Old, similar HERE  |  TOTE: Old, similar HERE  |  SUNGLASSES: Karen Walker  |  EARRINGS: Argento Vivo

DRESS: Theory  |  SHOES: Veronica Beard  |  BAG: Old, similar HERE  |  SUNGLASSES: Karen Walker  |  BELT: Old, similar HERE

DRESS: Cinq a Sept  |  SHOES: Old, similar HERE  |  CLUTCH: Minza Khan  |  EARRINGS: old, similar at BaubleBar

STYLING TIPS

For a dressy night celebrating a good cause, you can pull out all of the glamorous stops! Whether that’s a floor-length formal gown or a sequined midi, you probably want to avoid looking like you’re going to the club (i.e. skip the risqué mini dresses) but otherwise, the sky’s the limit!

ADDITIONAL FAVORITES

To check out the entire 30 Dresses in 30 Days Series, click HERE!

DRESS: Cinq a Sept  |  SHOES: Old, similar HERE  |  CLUTCH: Minza Khan  |  EARRINGS:old, similar at BaubleBar