Zara

Seattlites prepare for impact: Zara is to open at Westlake Center by the end of the year, and hopefully before the holiday season! Leave it to SeattleMet to update us with the latest and greatest, the news has been confirmed--Zara will open before the end of the year and the store will include fashions for men, women and children. Zara's styles are chic, contemporary, fashionable and affordable. Think: a few levels up from H&M (described as a "Spanish fast-fashion line").

On top of their generally affordable prices, they also have revolving sales (semi-annuals, end of season, etc.) that make for some outrageous deals. Wait, have I mentioned they have e-commerce opps on their website? Oh dear heavens.  So, shopping in your pajamas, on your couch, in your living room, is also very acceptable.  So do it!

In anticipation of the grand store opening, I have been doing some shameless (slightly obsessive) browsing of the Zara website.  I can't get over their selection of fun and funky blazers and trousers--not to mention their handbags.  Wowzers.  

Here's a few of my favorites:

1. Polka dot blouse

2. Printed trouser

3. Basic wide-striped sweater

4. Statement pinstripe blazer

5. Tribal print Fall jacket

A Little Slice of Heaven

Question: Definition of heaven on Earth?  

Answer: J.Crew Factory online

Below is a good representation of what I'm going ga-ga over at the moment. Granted, space is limited so these are just a few of my favorites.

Also, why just browse when you can get 30% off using the code "SPREE" at checkout.  Hurry fast!  Promo ends soon.

1.  FACTORY RIPSTOP UTILITY JACKET; $98
2. STRAIGHT AND NARROW JEAN; $74.50
3. FACTORY NEON CRYSTAL FAN NECKLACE; $44.50
4. FACTORY PRINTED TEAGAN RUFFLE POPOVER; $64.50
5. FACTORY PRINTED PHONE CASE FOR IPHONE 5; $14.50
6. FACTORY VERO CLUTCH; $68
7. FACTORY EMERY FLATS; $68

Just Bitten

Just Bitten, $7.50 Drugstores

Drugstore alert! 

This product is major.

I can't say enough about Revlon's Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain.  This product provides all the benefits of a stain/tint product but applies and feels like your favorite lip balm.  The color can be intensified by the amount you apply.  If you desire a super, color-rich lip; you'll want to apply two or three coats.  If you prefer just a subtle look; apply one coat.

Update: I applied my Balm Stain at 8am this morning and it lasted through breakfast and two cups of coffee, lunch and some afternoon snacks and the stain is still on my lips.  No joke!

As evidenced above, you can't beat the stay-power of this product.

With 12 vibrant shades, you really can't go wrong!  I am tempted to buy in two or three colors, I love this product so much!

Kiss away . . .

Drugstore Essentials

Ahhh, there are so many fun and exciting things going on in my life right now and I’m finding it hard to concentrate on what I’m supposed to be doing, momentarily, so I’m writing a blog post in lieu of alternative productive activities!

Drugstore skin care items worth purchasing:

1.   Garnier Skin Naturals Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream

In an effort to lower the cost of my beauty product budget and a desperate need for quality face moisturization; I selected Garnier’s  Skin Naturals Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream as the “summer drink” for my parched face.  I bought this product in anticipation that I would use up the remainder of my daily face moisturizer, Clinique DramaticallyDifferent Gel Moisturizing Gel, sooner than later.  I finally got around to religiously using this gel cream in the evenings and as-needed for daily use and have been awestruck by the quality of this product. This product delivers all the benefits you would find in a designer skin care brand but at a fraction of the price.  The product does an outstanding job locking in moisture and does not make your face appear greasy when worn throughout the day.  This refreshing gel-cream will also help you create that natural, dewy look we all aspire to have!  Don’t let the low sticker-price detour you from buying this product.  At an astounding $8 to $9 per tub, you won’t feel guilty applying liberally and often.  Sit back and watch the magic take place!  I am so happy I discovered this knock-out product.

2.   Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub

This is the absolute perfect “summer” addition to any skin care regimen.  I bought this product because I was looking for a non-invasive alternative to a daily facial scrub.  After peddling over many other alternatives, I’m so glad I chose Neutrogena’s Grapefruit Foaming Scrub.  This product smells magical and couldn’t be more refreshing.  I’ve enjoyed working this scrub into my daily showering regimen.   The product does a good job eliminating the harmful dirt, dead skin and bacteria which are all notorious for creating breakouts.  Additionally, the gentle micro-beads work to polish the skin with visible results.  The product does include some Salicylic Acid acne medicine, but does not cause irritation.  The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub is a refreshing alternative to other daily facial scrubs and I will definitely repeat the purchase in the future. 

3.   Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Look no further for removing tough eye makeup then the coveted Almay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads.  I have been using these makeup remover pads for a long time and haven’t found a more effective solution for removing stubborn eye makeup.  The pads are the perfect size and come pre-moistened.  They are composed of a soft solution that doesn’t irritate the eye and is not too oily (which is often the problem with most eye makeup removers).  Before using the product, I would recommend washing the face and using the pad to do the extra “clean up”.  A reliable product at a great price?  There is no better solution!  

I'm curious; what are your favorite drugstore products?

Kombucha

Cherry Chia Kombucha

Oh hey, blog.  Nice to see you, again.  I’ve seen I’ve neglected you, again.  I am sorry and I offer my sincerest apologies. 

Okay, so what’s new in the life of Rachel?  Not too much I’d say.  I am so happy spring has officially arrived.  With a trace of color on my skin, I am happy to report I have been incorporating pastels into my wardrobe like its my j-o-b and the pastel colors make me feel extra feminine and youthful (not a bad combo, eh?).  Mixing the pastel pieces with bold bright hues has been a fun way to remix my spring closet.  Statement necklaces have continued to inspire me and my collection seems to be growing at an exponential rate.

Also, I have discovered a deep obsession for drinking Kombucha (ancient fermented tea elixir).  I started writing a blog post on my love for Kombucha last week but I didn’t have the motivation to finish and post it, oops!  So maybe I’ll do a brief recap here and now to get the whole thing over with.

Bottom line: I highly recommend the GT’s Synergy Kombucha.  My favorite flavors are: Cosmic Cranberry, Gingerade and my beloved Cherry Chia.  Kombucha offers a multitude health benefits including: increased energy levels, a decreased appetite, an aid in digestion, healthier skin and hair, and even a stronger immune system.  Be careful, this product is dangerously addicting. Also, I do know a few people who have had adverse reactions to this product and I do believe this product is a natural diuretic, so be easy if you are a Kombucha virgin!  Also, many of the flavors (especially the originals) are fermented; therefore, do not shake before opening unless you are prepared to be sprayed. 

My favorite flavor, as mentioned above, is the Cherry Chia.  The Chia flavors contain chia seeds and come in three delicious flavors (grape, raspberry and cherry).  The chia seeds bring their own added health benefits to the already healthy beverage.  Drinking the Chia Kombucha is similar to sipping on liquid Jello—it is that much fun!  The consistency of the tea is so fun and enjoyable to drink.  What more?  The chia seed is a nutrient-rich super food that provides sustained energy for your body.  How so?  The chia seed is packed with more than 8 times the omega-3’s found in salmon and contains more antioxidants than blueberries and more fiber than oatmeal.  A truly incredible super food, indeed.

Try GT’s Synergy Kombucha at your local supermarket or natural health foods grocer.  Safeway offers a large selection at an affordable price (around $3 a bottle).  Check it out!

(Bee)utiful

It is no surprise that Burt’s Bees products are fantastic. Browsing their website, I was amazed at the breadth of product variety.  Here's a few of my favorite products made by Burt’s Bees.  Drum roll, please. . .

1. Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm:  What a gemstone of a product!  I purchased this product for a recent vacation because I didn't want the hassle of putting on lipstick but I wanted a little bit of color on my lips while staying casual at the beach.  I had seen this product in the drugstore and figured I’d take a swing at it.  I am so glad I made the purchase!  This product is butter-soft, non-fragrant, comes in a fun storage tube and keeps my lips feeling healthy and nourished.  This product is 100% natural and contains ingredients such as: coconut, vegetable, beeswax, sunflower and soybean oils.  They offer a variety of different tint colors but I chose Red Dahlia and I think it could be a suitable color for all.
2. Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream:  Who doesn't like the fresh smell of sweet lemon? No one.  My point exactly!  My mom gave me a Burt’s Bees sampler pack a few months ago and this product was one of my favorites in the pack.  I absolutely love the scent and nourishing power of this product.  I like to smear a dash of it on my cuticles before bed and there is no better scent to fall asleep to.  This cuticle cream moisturizes the cuticles with sweet almond oil, cocoa seed butter, vitamin E and sunflower oil and nourishes brittle nails.  Oh, la la.
3. Mango and Orange Sugar Scrub:  You had me at sugar scrub.  I think adding a sugar scrub to your bathing routine is both beneficial and totally luxurious.  What more?  This product can be purchased at your local drugstore!  Slather a generous glob on your hand and begin to lather all over your body.  Make sure to pay special attention to your knees and elbows; you can even hit your feet to eliminate dry stubborn skin.  You will feel awakened by the refreshing scent and your skin will look and feel absolutely radiant after one application.  Power ingredients: natural sugar crystals and orange peel.

What are your Burt’s Bees must-haves?

Cosmetic Toss

LORAC, Unzipped; Sephora

Stila, Waterproof Eyeliner; Sephora

I had an epiphany early last week and realized my makeup bag needed a makeover, stat.  My eyeliner and eye shadow palette were looking a little . . . sad.  A sad appearance led me to believe that my makeup might be a potential bacterial hazard.  Yikes!  Let’s get real, bacteria happens and it is critical that you keep your makeup bag clear of any potential “bacteria-parties”. 

After a little research I found there are quite a few inconsistencies as to how frequently you should toss makeup to ensure your makeup bag stays healthy; but I think the following article provides a decent suggestion as to how frequently you should discard opened cosmetics:

Expiration dates: 
Beginning from the time you first open these products

Powders and shadows // 2 years

Cream shadows // 12 to 18 months

Foundation // 1 year

Lipstick & lipliner // 1 year

Mascara & eyeliners // 3 months

Makeup brushes // Clean weekly using a mild detergent

Makeup sponges // Replace weekly, or when sponge becomes soiled

Ha!  I am impressed to say that I actually “toss” out makeup more frequently then suggested.  Most of my makeup ends up running out before the expiration date comes due but it is important to toss out expired makeup when the time comes due.  It is even more important if you occasionally share makeup with friends and/or family.  Needless to say, always err on the side of caution.  If there is an odor, toss.  If you start breaking out, toss.  If the pigment in the makeup starts to discolor or deteriorate, toss.  Pretty simple stuff.

So, my makeup bag ended up being “clean” but I still treated myself to a new eye shadow pallet from LORAC and some new waterproof eyeliner from Stila.  I have been wearing less and less eye makeup recently but the LORAC palette comes with both 10 beautiful neutral-shade eye shadows and a bonus eye primer.  The two together are a match made in makeup heaven.  I am also really excited to try Stila’s waterproof liquid eyeliner (with a felt tip).  I have heard rave reviews of its mighty stay-power and ease of use. 

Moreover, don’t neglect the health of your precious makeup and if you ever need an excuse to buy more makeup; remind yourself of the potential health risks of ignoring the signs of spoiled cosmetics!

Lenscrafters

                                                       

Coach eyeglasses - Lenscrafters

       
I made a new eyeglass purchase this weekend, horray! This was my first experience buying eyeglasses from Lenscrafters and I have been more than happy with the whole experience. Bonus: I was lucky enough to have my parents with me to help pick out the perfect pair!

I was impressed by Lenscrafters in the following way(s):

Frame selection.  They carry so many stylish frames to choose from.  Some brand highlights: Coach, Tiffany’s, Ray Ban, Prada, Burberry, Tory Burch, and the list goes on. Also, during the frame selection process, they have cameras to snap photos of you with the frames on your face; providing both a front and side profile image.  This is a major bonus to help you select your favorite and most complimentary frame.

Price.  They seem to have competitive pricing relative to the quality of product.  They offer a discounted product with boutique-style experience.  It's quite nice! They take a variety of insurance plans and offer  discounts for members of AAA and AARP.  Watch out for sales!

Friendly sales staff.  The sales staff made my experience very enjoyable.  There was no “bait and switch” activity happening (which can often happen in these purchasing environments).  They appeared to maximize the use of my medical benefits by calculating different pricing and promotional alternatives to get me out the door with the best possible price. The sales associate that helped me even walked me to the door at the end of our appointment (a very sweet gesture).

Quick production.  My glasses were finished to perfection in less than 8 hours.  Need I say more?

Technology.  Lenscrafters is the only retail optical store that utilizes a high-tech system to accurately fit frames to your face (private or boutique stores also use the same technology).  They pop out the plastic showroom lenses and apply the frames to a sensor mount and then apply the frames to your face and then take a picture.  The sensors sync with computer software making sure the lenses/frames are in the accurate spot.  If I can remember correct, the system can measure up to a tenth of a millimeter in accuracy!

Insurance coverage.  You can buy insurance coverage that protects your purchase for up to a year.  Their policy covers all damages except for being lost or stolen.  Upon damage you pay $25 to get a completely new pair of glasses.  So, if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can do a direct exchange within 90 days of purchase (frames, lens quality, etc.).  Talk about being covered. 

Needless to say I highly recommend Lenscrafters for your next eyeglass or prescription sunglass purchase.

Newman's Own: Honey Mustard

Okay, I know I am a freak for posting this but everyone must know and understand how absolutely delicious this dressing is.  Like, I'm telling you, it is liquid gold.  Intended to be a salad dressing but you can be awfully creative with it.

You can use this dressing in the following ways: in a leafy green salad, as a dip for pretzel thins, on salmon steaks, crab cakes, quinoa, veggie stir fry, pizza ... okay now I'm just being obnoxious. 

But, truth be told, this dressing is your solution to a delicious, flavorful meal.  Also, did I mention it is considered to be "light" dressing?  Only 70 calories per serving!  So technically there should be absolutely NO guilt associated with drenching everything with this heaven-sent, delectable dressing... right?

Try out my favorite way to enjoy Newman's Own Light Honey Mustard dressing:

1. Obtain a couple of handfuls of spinach or like leafy-green salad
2. Dice up some raw sweet onion
3. Add about a half of a chopped green pepper
4. Add a couple of tablespoons of crushed mixed nuts
5. Whatever protein or deli meat you desire (I recommend turkey or chicken)
6. Give a nice, liberal pour of Newman's Own Light Honey Mustard dressing
7.  Toss the salad gently and you are ready for a quick, tasty meal!  

Yum, yum.  Is it lunch yet?

LORAC Cosmetics

Oh hello, LORAC. 

LORAC cosmetics wear like gold and have a way of making you look polished, day in and day out.  The products are packed with rich pigments and the color blends and lays flawless.  The shimmer ends up appearing more like a sheen glow; not a glob of glitter mess.  The LORAC cosmetics line is probably best compared to the MAC cosmetics line.  So, if you are a fan of MAC cosmetics, LORAC could be a great alternative for you!

I would highly recommend buying the "Little Black Palette" as a starter piece from the LORAC line.  This product is a great value.  The palette comes with four stunning, bronze-hued eye shadows along with a tube of their fantastic eye primer.  

If you are looking to try out a few other products I'm also a huge fan of the oil-free luminizing powder, $32 (similar to a bronzer but not is more or less an illuminator) and the fabulous 3D lashes volumizing & thickening mascara, $22.   

Top-Secret Beauty Secret: Mix the TANtilizer instant bronzer with your daily body lotion and poof--instant bronzed goddess!

Little Back Pallete, $33 Sephora

TANtalizer Instant Body Bronzer, $32 Sephora

Brand Junkie

I'm a brand junkie, guilty as charged.  

I admit it, I can be a serious sucker for brand name or designer clothing. Thankfully, 6pm.com can help me sustain my brand-name buying addiction.  

From outerwear brands such as Patagonia and Merrell to designer shoe brands such as Vince Camuto and Miss Sixty, you simply can't go wrong.  With savings up to 80% MSRP, you'll be in discount designer-wear heaven!

Vince Camuto, Kira $67.99

Vince Camuto, Kolby $32.90

Vince Camuto, Cassandra $59.10

BONUS:  My favorite and admired feature of this website is the "video description" tab on nearly each product sold.  So, you get the see the product featured on film and worn on a model/sales person before you make the purchase.  You are even delivered a pretty convincing sales pitch!  A cool and innovative way to sell online product if you ask me.

Browse the site.  I promise you will not be disappointed. 

Keeping up with the Times

One of my mild and ongoing obsessions this year has been the statement watch.  Whether it be Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Timex or Fossil; each piece is just as stunning as the next.  

What to look for?  A piece that is feminine but still maintains the classic menswear look.  I love bling--but best to not go overboard if buying as an investment piece to wear for years to come.  Another striking feature? A mother of pearl inlay. 

As the holidays approach, my mind wonders to hues of gold timepieces and I think I know what to put on my Christmas list...