style crush: Blake Lively

I just had to share this dress today.  That's all. Just this dress on this Mrs. Reynolds. Worn to the 80th anniversary party for the Chanel fine jewelry collection 'Bijoux de Diamantes'.  

Really, it is absolutely gorgeous and that's all there is I could possibly say. So I'll keep it short today and let you dream of holiday dresses... that's where my head is after looking at this.  

Silver. Dress. Done. 

j'adore 

images: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 

slightly obsessed: produkt

I consider myself pretty low-maintenance.  However, I am excited to try new things... here are a few beauty goodies I have my eye on... some old standbys, some new finds.  It is about this time in the summer that I start longing for a nice deep cleansing facial and some serious deep conditioning hair treatments.  Booking both of those appointments today.  In the meantime, I am curious about these little goodies:

Josie Maran hot oil treatment... I am seeing more and more of her line around 

and am interested to try something - could be this self-heating hot oil treatment.

Philip B. rejuvenating oil... I used to use this in LA years ago after he cut my hair in his little salon before he was so major.  He is a sweet fella and this oil is amazing. You soak it in to dry hair overnight and it makes a huge difference.  I had forgotten about it but think its time to try it again. 

Now this I have used for at least 20 years.  But I always have the tins - going to try the tube!

I just love the name of this... Divine Oil.  I think I must have some. 

I am so excited to try this Korres Cheek Butter!  I love the packaging, love the fact that it is all natural and love the fact that I can throw it on with my fingers as I am running out the door.  

All in all the goal is good skin, de-frizz the mane, and glow just a little as I dash out the door.

Wish me luck. 

totally random: braided

This is totally random but I just had to post this.  

Top image: a braided jute rug from canvas interiors

bottom image:  a beautiful braid

When my hair is an unruly mass of curls and the humidity off the charts, the easiest way for me to tame the puff is a little braid and a side part... bun in the back.  

Here are a few braids to add to your summer hair ideas...

images found:  1 moi // 2 

collage clockwise from left:  1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 

nice buns

In the never-ending quest for the perfect 'messy bun' I thought I would collect a few ideas and share.
Inspiration for summer ...

images clockwise from upper left found: 

1// 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // center

Sometimes when you try too hard it doesn't work.  

I'm going to try not to try and see how I do!