Style Multitaskers

August 20, 2014Beauty, FashionNavigate with StyleComment

I've always been a big fan of multi-tasking products - who wouldn't be? Anything that does double duty (or more) is worth its weight in gold, in my style book.

* Stila Convertible Color is one of my beauty staples because it takes the place of separate lip color and blush containers in my makeup bag AND is easily and best applied with a finger, eliminating a need for a makeup brush. The colors are gorgeous and look natural on the skin.

* The DKNY Cozy wrap sweater is a genius multitasker that I've worn to death these last few years. It might be time to buy a fresh one.

* Paul Mitchell was the first "salon quality" hair care line I tried (and could afford) as a pre-teen. I thought I was so cool when I made that first purchase. What a dork. I still have a soft spot for The Conditioner, a cleanly scented leave in hair conditioner, effective shave cream and body moisturizer -- a triple threat. I still use it from time to time. * A sweep of their website indicates to me that The Conditioner might have been discontinued. What a shame. Buy it on Amazon while supplies last.

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap can be used to clean babies and adults, homes, dishes, clothes, makeup brushes, toys and cars...and pretty much anything else you can think of. Brilliant. I am never without a bottle.

And my new fave that inspired this post, the Vinyasa Scarf by lululemon. I just found out about it a few weeks ago and since then, I've been seeing them everywhere - online and in person. With 10+ ways to wear it (cute video tutorial), I know it will be a valuable component of my Fall/Winter wardrobe, whether I'm yoga-ing or not. It must be a wildly popular item because it goes in and out of stock on their website and in their stores in the blink of an eye. Your best bet is more than likely eBay, where I happened to snag mine for just a few dollars over the retail price. Happy hunting!

Keep it funky. JDF

ps - Does anyone remember a store called UNITS? Very popular in the late 1980's (maybe a little before, maybe a little after, I can't remember), UNITS sold about 8 minimalist silhouettes in dresses, tees and leggings. Every piece was offered in the same jersey knit and the same 6 or so colors for countless mix and match combos. I loved it. The best piece was a circular piece of fabric that could be worn as a tube top or mini skirt when stretched out or as a belt when scrunched. It was my first multi-tasking piece and DAMN, I wish UNITS was still in business today.

Back to School

August 6, 2014Fashion, BeautyNavigate with StyleComment

I'm more than a decade out of college (and I really never want to do homework again) but that doesn't stop me from doing a wee bit of Back to School shopping for myself. I still think of September as the start of a new year (more so than January), and since my boys are just embarking on their education, this fall activity will be on my radar for years to come. Here's how we grown-ups can capture a little of that exciting BTS spirit for ourselves...

* Update tech supplies with a new stylus or cover/case for tablet or phone. Kate Spade always offers colorful and cheeky options.

* New shoes are a BTS staple, but instead of saddles or loafers, my BTS shoes will be ankle booties, kind of like these. I'm an accessories girl at heart - I'd rather have a new bag or shoe than a new piece of clothing, and a new pair of kicks can really pick me up. Paolo Nutini just gets me.

* Fresh eyeglasses (or sunnies for those who wear contact lenses or possess perfect vision) can really update the vibe. Online optical companies like Warby Parker, BonLook and Rowley Eyewear offer super stylish options at smaller prices than traditional outlets. My pink babies from Rowley were a spring purchase but I'm still way into them so they're staying put.

* One great new outfit can set the tone for all future shopping during the season. My youngest babe is heading to pre-school (gasp!) so I'm going to be a bit more free to refocus on work. My goal is to pick up a few more professional pieces (blazer, blouses and a real pair of pants) and ditch the glorified pj's I've been sporting for the last 17+ months...

* A fresh haircut, a color tweak, perhaps just a new style, can make a huge impact. I'm trying to embrace my natural, curly texture - REALLY trying to resist the urge to book a keratin smoothing treatment. Perhaps I'll just get a few face-framing highlights instead...

What's on your BTS shopping list?

Five Second Style Tips

July 8, 2014Beauty, FashionNavigate with StyleComment

So many beauty tips, so little time. But start here. Employ these quick little gems every day. It's the best advice I could give (and remember to take).

* Smile! People are drawn to happy faces + smiling is infectious. Bonus: A pretty lip color and glistening pearly whites boost the effect.

* Stand Up Straight! Bad posture gives the appearance of extra pounds and makes clothing look frumpy. Head up, shoulders back but relaxed. As my former figure skating coach used to say, "Put your sky hook on!" <-- She told me to envision a cable suspended from the sky, clipped to my chest, lifting me up and away. This is something that just refuses to leave my brain.

* Look People in the Eyes! Think of President Bill Clinton. Everyone always says how he makes whoever he's speaking to feel like the most important person in the room. He holds their gaze and focuses on them in that moment. I believe this is just one of the many reasons certain people (ahem) find him so sexy. I only hope that one day I can experience his gaze first hand...

Keep it funky.

JDF

Fresh Faced

May 31, 2014BeautyNavigate with StyleComment

I am alllll about the no-makeup trend happening this season. Not to be all, "I've been wearing little to no makeup since before it was cool" but...I've been wearing little to no makeup since before it was cool. I'm glad people are coming around to the bare faced look. I'm so bored with overly made up faces and smoky cat eyes...it's aging and a little tired. When it comes to makeup, I truly believe less is more. I like to see (on myself and others) radiant, glowing skin, a bit of definition where it counts (ahem, lashes and brows) and a soft, natural lip color. *I love me a kickass red lippy every now and then, don't get me wrong.

Origins VitaZing, blinc tube mascara, Anastasia Brow Wiz, Stila Convertible Color.

The style crowd is making a big deal about this no-makeup movement right now. Is it a feminist statement? Perhaps it's in line with the green/eco lifestyle? Or maybe it's just a flash in the pan trend because everything else has been done? Maybe it's all of the above. I like to think it's more about embracing who "you" really is. At least it is for me. I'm a busy mom who juggles writing from home and my beauty routine certainly reflects that. I take care of my skin morning and night no matter how tired I am. If I'm lucky or the mood strikes, I'll actually apply a bit of makeup like tinted moisturizer, cream eye/lip color, mascara and a little brow pencil.

The reason I felt compelled to write about this issue is due to a recent experience at a beauty superstore. The salesgirl clearly took one look at my seemingly makeup free face and falsely assumed I was clueless. I patiently sat through her canned sales pitch and corporate mandated questions but when she snottily tried to steer me away from the product I came in for (after having done plenty of my own research), I politely ditched her. I totally get that she has a job to do. I used to have that job. But I don't appreciate being talked down to or considered inexperienced simply because I find a fresh face to be more my style.

I hope more women can ditch the makeup mask and let their natural beauty shine through and give this new "trend" some staying power. I could use more girls in my camp. But...

Let me finish all this by saying, if a full face of makeup and the smokiest smoky eye is your jam, keep on keepin' on. You do you. I'll do me.

Earth Day

April 22, 2014BeautyNavigate with StyleComment

There are lots of ways to celebrate Earth Day like walking or biking to work, planting a tree or picking up trash around your neighborhood or city. I have a few ideas for quickly and simply greening your beauty routine in honor of Earth Day.

* Say no to styling tools for the day to cut down on consumption of electricity.

* Shower in luke warm to cool water, instead of hot. A cooler shower helps to increase circulation and is a refreshing way to wake up. Try it, you might actually like it. Bonus: No one lingers during a cold shower so you'll also save on water consumption.

* Do a sweep of your bathroom shelves, vanity and makeup drawers for products that contain toxins. It's been reported that women apply 500+ toxic chemicals to their face every day! Make a list of the items you can gradually replace with organic alternatives. And then...

* Wear only organic/natural/eco personal care products for the day. You'll quickly realize where the holes in your natural beauty routine are. **Don't worry - you're not the only one that's lacking an eco mascara. That category is way behind the curve...

* Many people already do a great job of recycling in the kitchen but stop short of personal care products. Start a recycling bin in your bathroom for all your beauty product packaging. Empty bottles, jars, boxes and included literature can typically (and should) be recycled.

And, if you're feeling festive, wear green today to show your support of Mother Earth!

Happy Earth Day, lovelies!

The April List

April 21, 2014Beauty, Fashion, Fun!Navigate with StyleComment

At last, SPRING! The warmer temps and cheery sunshine have put a bounce in my step. So have these 5 things:

* I was so excited to flip my closet from Winter to Summer. The transformation is not yet complete but I'm thrilled to have my favorite dresses within reach again. Give it up for one piece dressing!

* The Skimm, a Monday through Friday morning email, keeps me in the know with bite sized news stories. I rarely watch broadcast television and don't spend as much time on Twitter as I used to so I'm thankful for the quick updates.

* I've recently started using Young Living essential oils, thanks to a knowledgeable friend. It's safe to say I'm hooked. I add a few drops of Lemon to my water in the morning, apply Purification to breakouts and inhale the most wonderfully intense Lavender in the evening during my bedtime ritual. I also add drops of all three to a spray bottle filled with water to mist around my house. I'm still learning about Young Living and can't wait to receive my next shipment of additional oils. Stay tuned for more on the subject - there are a TON of ways to use these potent and healing oils.

* At the beginning of the month, I cracked into my first bag of chia seeds and have started by making chia water: 1/2 cup lime juice, 10 cups water, 1/2 cup chia seeds. The texture is funky but I like it. I can't wait to try these powerful and nutritious seeds in other recipes. If you have any faves, send them my way!

* Proud Mumma Alert: My two little guys were asked to take part in some promotional photos and videos for The Good Ones, a super rad clothing company for boys. I adore the line for the thoughtful design details (pearlized snaps, reflective tape, cool patches, etc), awesome branding and fun, interactive website. Peep the newest video, Anything Ever, featuring lots of cute kiddos, including mine.

The March List

March 19, 2014BeautyNavigate with Style4 Comments

I always mean to post these at the beginning of the month but I don't always know what I'm going to be digging until I'm actually digging them. Consider the below officially dug.

One of my resolutions at the beginning of the year was to get back to more eco friendly/natural personal care products. From right to left, because I felt like it, are my latest attempts at moving in that direction.

* Pacifica is my current eco fave for glosses that aren't goopy and shadows with rich pigments. The brand is 100% vegan, cruelty free and is formulated without FD&C colors, phthalates, parabens, sulfates, propylene glycol, mineral oil, petroleum, triclosan and other harmful toxins.

* I'm always on the hunt for a non toxic deodorant that actually works - I have high hopes for this Nourish Organic option, in Lavender Mint.

* In an effort to CALM THE EFF DOWN and get better sleep, I'm going to be spritzing Aura Cacia's Chill Pill and guzzling Natural Calm, a magnesium supplement, all month long. I'll let you know if I'm still a crazy person in April.

* Finally, because my giant mane is a b!tch to deal with, the Tangle Teezer has become my new best friend. My hair is crazy, y'all. *I'm not Southern, but the y'all just felt appropriate here.

Side note: I'm wild for the number 5 and it's absolutely driving me bonkers that this post contains 5 products but only 4 bullet points --- I seriously struggled with the decision to publish this as is. I like things in groups of 5 at all times. This is my personal hell.

I'm not dramatic at all.

PSA: Public Skincare Announcement

February 23, 2014BeautyNavigate with StyleComment

Gerber 5 Count Organic Birdseye Prefold Cloth Diaper

THE HORROR! I fell asleep with my makeup on two nights in a row. I woke up this morning feeling like I had a thick layer of grime on my face. As I started prepping for an emergency DIY facial, I grabbed a cloth baby diaper and wondered if anyone outside the industry knew about this little spa secret. 100% organic cotton baby diapers, the ones many mamas use for burp cloths these days, make for the most perfect facial towel. They're more gentle on the face than a regular wash cloth and get softer with each cycle through the laundry. They're fab at removing masks and/or to dry your face post cleansing. They're inexpensive and certainly don't take up a lot of precious bathroom storage space. Excuse me, I have an enzyme mask to remove.

The more you know!

The February List

February 6, 2014Beauty, Fashion, Fun!Navigate with StyleComment

Check this ish out:

* Cool tune + adidas track suit wearing roller skaters with dope moves = on repeat at Chez Fox.

* Squishy & bouncy, a konjac sponge needs to get in your bathroom for daily cleansing asap.

* Bored with your jewelry? Try an ear cuff. The trend is almost done so don't spend major coin.

* Packing school lunches is not my favorite part of the day but I might try some of these to keep things interesting.

* Fashion Week officially kicks off today. There are loads of ways to stay up to date. The Fashion Spot is one of the better options.

Keep it funky.

Project JDF.

February 5, 2014Beauty, FashionNavigate with StyleComment

I've spent the last year trying to figure out how to be a stay at home, freelance writing mother. It's been quite challenging at times but I've really enjoyed spending this precious first year with my second son rather than jumping right back into a full time+ job as I did after my first.

In 2008, I went back to work after the standard three month maternity leave. I went to an office everyday, to an exciting job in the corporate office of a high end salon/spa/boutique company in Boston. While I know I didn't look ultra stylish every single day, I was forced by social norms to shower regularly, put on makeup, get dressed and wear cool, big girl shoes. This time, I've barely put on makeup, I still slip on maternity leggings from time to time and have a very sorry collection of unsupportive nursing bras. I can't even go into what's happening with my hair.

This last year has been tricky. I write for various publications, including this little blog, during nap times and in the evening after the boys are asleep. Why should I shower when I'm alternating between playing on the nursery floor and sitting at my computer? I occasionally go days without actually seeing or speaking to another adult other than my husband (poor guy).

I do manage to get some girl time in with my friends, sometimes even without kids, which is when I at least attempt to swipe on concealer and lip gloss. But I'm wearing the same old shit: threadbare leggings, chunky cardigans, tanks and tees festooned with pureed pears and oatmeal.

I've misplaced my spark. It's around here somewhere but I've been too tired to look for it. As my second son approaches his first birthday, I'm slowly emerging from the shadows. It's time to make an effort again. I need to clean out my closet, rework my makeup drawer and kick up my fitness plan. Today is Day 1 of Project JDF.

collab crazy...

October 14, 2013Fashion, BeautyNavigate with Style2 Comments

I simply can't get enough of the collaboration movement the fashion industry has so enthusiastically embraced. Maybe it's because I live in the middle of the country where availability of some major brands is a tad limited. Maybe it's because I don't fall into the same tax bracket of the high end designer clientele. Let's be honest - it's both.

Big name designer collaborations are great for all parties. The designer gets more mainstream exposure, the mass retailer gets to align with a luxury brand and the consumer gets the high dollar look for less. Win-win-win.

I'm addicted to Target (shocking, I know). That bullseye just draws me right in with their regularly scheduled, amazing collabs. But lately another store has been KILLING IT in the collaboration department: JCPenney. Sephora, Martha Stewart, Joe Fresh, Jonathan Adler, giggleBABY, MNG by Mango, Nicole by Nicole Miller, Olsenboye, Marchesa, Betsey Johnson and more (more!) have joined forces with the retailer over the last few seasons. The stores have also been given a huge makeover. The housewares department of my local JCP is gleaming white and super modern and I wish I could just move in.

These wonderful changes occurred under the supervision of former CEO Ron Johnson. It's a shame he was ousted but I hope those now in charge can keep his vision going because I'm having lots of fun shopping in a store I hadn't set foot in for...decades? I mean, I'm sure I had been in a JCP at least once during my childhood but I just can't recall the experience.

Visit your local JCP and prepare to be dazzled.

The October List

October 1, 2013Beauty, Fashion, Fun!Navigate with StyleComment

This month's to do's (it involves a lot of pumpkins)...

* Whip up a pumpkin body scrub by mixing about 1/2 cup coconut oil and 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice and a few shakes of ground cinnamon. Adjust the amount of oil and sugar until you achieve the desired consistency. I like it rough so I use less oil.

* Visiting a pumpkin patch or apple orchard is a favorite activity of the season. To find a pumpkin patch in your state click here. For apples, click here. I can't wait to take my family to the Lincoln Ridge Pumpkin & Mum Festival in Ohio.

* Need more pumpkin in your life? Follow Pumpkinita on Instagram. She posts super creative and mouthwatering ideas.

* How did we survive without Pinterest? Falling for Fall, their latest seasonal board, highlights warm, cozy and inviting recipes and decor ideas.

My go-to ensemble for the season. The beanie hides the disaster that is my hair.

* I like to dress in uniforms - it makes getting out the door each morning much easier. The blueprint for my Fall dressing relies on light layers in neutrals with a few pops of green. A light scarf keeps me cozy when it's crisp or stashes easily in my handbag when the sun is shining. Cool stud earrings (that tiny and slobbery hands can't pull on) and flat soled boots pull the look together.

So, how long until October is just renamed Pumpkin Spice?

Beauty Sleep

September 18, 2013BeautyNavigate with StyleComment

When we sleep, our body naturally rejuvenates itself. Help it along with a few tricks:

* Help your skin cells turnover since they're naturally doing it anyway while you sleep. After cleansing your face, slather on a serum or cream with ingredients meant to renew like vitamins A and K and alpha hydroxy acids. Try REN's Resurfacing AHA Concentrate or Clinique's Turnaround Overnight Radiance Moisturizer.

* Eyes tend to give us away so make sure to lightly pat an anti-aging cream onto that delicate skin before bed. If your eyes are a little red in the AM, a few tiny drops of Rohto Cooling eye drops will clear them up and make your peepers feel refreshed.

* Try to sleep on your back to wake up without crease lines and to avoid premature lines and wrinkles. A pillow underneath your knees as well as an extra one under your head can make this more comfortable.

* In the evening, swap your regular toothpaste with Crest Vivid White Night. The formula coats teeth and loosens stains while you sleep so they can be brushed away in the morning. Use nightly for at least two weeks to see a visible difference.

* Cover your hair with a satin scarf or rest your pretty head on a satin pillow case to reduce frizz causing friction for your locks. Branché Beauty Sleep makes lovely satin pillow cases and sleep masks.

* Give your hair a moisture boost by sleeping in a deep conditioning mask (or any rich conditioner will do). Wrap hair in a turban or gather hair into a topknot and put a towel over your pillowcase to keep it from getting messy. Rinse out in your morning shower then style as usual.

* Get your zzz's. A good night's rest makes you look and feel better. It's scientific. Duh...

The September List

September 6, 2013Beauty, FashionNavigate with StyleComment

This month's to-do's...

* Swap your bright or beachy tote for a structured bag or day clutch in a rich fall hue like navy or mustard. Perhaps the 3.1 Philip Lim collection for Target has what you seek.

* Summer wreaks havoc on skin and hair. Get funky with exfoliation (manual or chemical - I dig both) to fight all that pesky sun damage. Deep condition tresses with a nourishing mask. Repeat this process weekly for the rest. of. your. life.

An old fave. Bold look yet so lightweight thanks to thin leather backing. No droopy ears for me.

* Bracelets and necklaces have reigned supreme the last few seasons so it's time for your earrings to have a moment. Bring yours out of hiding or pick up a new statement pair to switch things up. This lovely pair is temporarily part of my "Mumma Off Duty" collection - pieces I can only wear when my kids are being monitored by another adult. Babies are quite grabby...and slobbery.

* Remove the last dregs of neon nail polish and go for a ladylike lacquer in nudes and chocolates. Embellish a nail or two with metallic foil or tiny studs.

* Embrace the Back to School spirit, even if you won't be cracking a textbook this year. A new notebook, tablet stylus or lunch bag will surely make you more productive at work.

* Follow New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2014 trends via Pinterest and the live show feeds for a week long punch in the face of high style.

year of the snake...

February 11, 2013Fashion, BeautyNavigate with StyleComment

Feb 10th marked the first day of the year of the snake in the Chinese calendar. While the Chinese say that saving money and being thrifty should be a top priority this year, you still might want to pick up a few charming snake inspired accessories to augment what you already own. In vibrant colors the look is still exotic but a little more playful, less serious. If a snake print isn't for you, try a cuff or some little stud earrings.

You might not think of beauty products getting in on the snake action but for the last few years, chemists have been including synthetic snake venom to attack fine lines and wrinkles. Peter Thomas Roth's UNWRINKLE range of serums, lotions and creams utilizes Syn-Ake, an engineered ingredient that smoothes wrinkles for a youthful appearance.