Beauty Winter Essentials

The bulk of my entries have been about beauty so I thought I would also do Winter Essentials focused on just that. I tried to cover head-to-toe as best I could.  These are my ultimate faves, enjoy!

1. EOS Lip Balm

I don’t begin my makeup routine without applying my lip balm first.  And when I forget, I literally stop midway just to apply it.  Everything about winter causes a drying effect on parts of the body and the lips are no exception.  I like that it doesn’t take away from the colour I place on my lips.

2. Caudalíe Face Serum

This has been part of my beauty routine for just over a month now and I absolutely love it.  It’s really helped in diminishing my pimple marks.  It’s a slow process but I’ve been able to see the gradual fade and can appreciate the process. Patience is definitely key when using a product like this. It contains Viniferine (extracted from grapes) which apparently work better than Vitamin C enriched products that help to brighten and even out the complexion. It’s oil, paraben and sulfate free. It dissolves into my skin right away and leaves it refreshed.  I use it before my moisturizer.

3. Batiste Dry Shampoo

I wash my hair maximum twice per week (twice is pushing it lol). With colder temps I don’t like shampooing often, and that helps to control my scalp’s natural oils. If my hair is down and I haven’t shampooed in two days it’s because of this product. It’s a life saver for me, especially on days when I’m strapped for time.

4. The Body Shop – Vitamin E Body Butter

I love cocoa butter anything and I prefer to use the Vitamin E body butter as it helps with dry, itchy skin – this especially happens to me during winter. The Vitamin E soothes any itching while moisturizes at the same time.

5. Aloe Vera Infused Socks

This may seem like an odd must have but I like to take care of my feet in the winter as much as I do during summer.  I wear heels/ankle boots at work everyday so my feet take a toll during winter more so than summer because of my footwear. I still get calluses so part of my nightly routine includes moisturizing my feet and slipping on a pair of these for bedtime. By the morning my feet are completely soft and rejuvenated for the day. I usually get mine at Winners and they retail for about $6.00 CDN.

xoxo

Ree

January Favourites

I’ve decided to include a Monthly Favourites series just to summarize products and things that really worked for me at the end of each month. It’s a little bit of beauty, fashion, technology and everyday items. Enjoy!

1. iPhone 6S – In all honesty, I needed a new phone and bought one just before January started.  I’ve always been an iPhone user so the 6S was definitely what I set out to purchase in order to upgrade my three year old 4S (yes, I know). I’ve had to get used to the size but over time it grew on me.  I love the “Live” photo option – I actually find it hilarious because it catches candid moments without you even realizing it. Other than that, I needed more GB space for photos and music and it does the job quite well.
2. Missy Lynn x BH Cosmetics Colour Lock matte lipstick in Missy Lynn. It’s a chocolate brown shade and glides on creamy with a velvet matte finish.  It contains shea butter so it keeps your lips super moisturized and has great staying power. Missy Lynn is one of my favourite Youtubers and over the past year she’s teamed up with BH Cosmetics twice – with a palette back in March. The collection also includes three more shades: L’amour (I also purchased), Serenity and Cloud Nine and retails for $7.00 USD right now.
3. Home is Toronto crew neck sweatshirt from Peace Collective. I featured this crew neck in my last post and I couldn’t pass up including it in my monthly faves.  I wore this probably once a week for the entire month (lol) and it will continue to be a staple for this winter.
4. Kate Spade 2016 Agenda. One of my goals this year is to stay organized, especially with my blog schedule.  I usually buy a pocket sized agenda to write my work schedule but this year I decided to get something slightly bigger with extra space to write daily notes, brainstorm blog ideas and other miscellaneous things like concerts and my sister’s PA Days, even my workout schedule.  So far it’s keeping me on track and I’ve only missed one blog post haha. Available at Indigo for $40.00 CDN.
5. Boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel.  This will be featured more in-depth for an upcoming beauty post but I will say, I’ve been using this exfoliator for about one month and I absolutely love it! It’s very gentle on the skin and you immediately feel the difference in texture and appearance when used.  I massage it onto my clean, dry face and feel the dead skin bead off from my skin. I use this once a week along with my daily cleanser and moisturizer.  Available at Sephora for $42.00 CDN.

xoxo

Ree

Fashion Winter Essentials

We’re nearing the middle  of winter and I realized I’ve been reaching for the same fashion items on the daily.  Well, of course, with colder weather, I’ve swapped out my lighter fall jacket for my heavier down filled parka and have added a toque, mitts and a heavier scarf.  I thought I would share my top five fashion essentials for the colder months ahead.

1. Crew neck sweater

It’s such an easy pullover and can be paired with anything. I usually pair it with jeans and ponté knit pants but it works well with a pencil skirt – even a fit and flare.  My Home is Toronto crew is from Peace Collective.  They offer an array of basic crew neck sweaters, t-shirts and hats, all with an unapologetic love for Canadiana. Just check out their Canadian as F*** selection. You’ll see what I’m talking about. Aside from that, the company gives back to the community. With each purchase, it supports the Breakfast for Learning program which helps feed a Canadian child in need with two meals and a healthy snack. Money well spent.

2. Ponté knit pant

I live in these on a daily basis and I have multiple pairs all with different detailing.  My favourite pairs are from Express, whether it’s all over coated leather or simple.  Some have zipper details, some are high-waisted and some have a thicker waistband to smooth out the tummy.  I call them my sophisticated leggings as they’re thicker and can almost be worn as pants.  They have great stretch and can accommodate a layer underneath for below 0 degree weather.

3. Boots

Because we haven’t gotten much snow this winter, I haven’t worn my Tretorn boots as much as I would like. And to be honest, they have run their course and I am in need of new winter boots. Instead, I’ve been reaching for a simple suede lace-up (Timberland look-a-like lol) from Top Shop.  They actually have great traction for icy weather and the shearling hightop keeps the cold out. And they’re on sale now too!

4. Cold wear accessories

I made a recent purchase at H&M for winter accessories. I mean, I couldn’t pass up $7 wool mittens and toque. Would you? I prefer the natural fibre as it insulates much better but there are great acrylic knit mitts out there with fleece lining that work just as fine.

5. Winter parka

Lastly, a good heavy duty parka that will last multiple winters. I will not lie, I bought my Community coat from Aritzia ONLY two years ago! That’s right. Before that, and for a good six years straight, I was able to only wear a peacoat because Toronto winters really aren’t that crazy.  But then came the winter 2014 ice storm and this thing called Polar Vortex – need I say more?  Stats – it’s a down-filled parka constructed of sustainable hemp and recycled fibres (polyester to be exact). It’s fur trim is vegan and includes ribbed cuffs to keep the cold out as well as a heavy duty double zipper for sitting comfortably. Sweat factor on the subway score: 7/10.

What are your go-to fashion essentials?

 

xoxo

Ree

Makeup Change Up – Sephora Bright Set

I’ve recently done a complete over haul of makeup and have changed up quite a few products.  A loose setting powder being one of them.  I had gone to Sephora to try the Makeup Forever and Laura Mercier setting powders but was disappointed with the white cast they left on my skin, even with the translucent powders.  And I just didn’t want to invest in something I wasn’t sure of, even after researching great reviews on these products.

I then came across the Bright Set loose finishing powder in the Sephora Collection.  What I liked immediately was the fact that it didn’t leave an ashy residue on my skin and that it was a yellow base.  This especially since I have a yellow undertone.

It’s as finely milled and velvet textured as the previously mentioned powders, not to mention the $20 cost didn’t bother me at all.

My only qualm is the lack of long lasting wear.  I do battle with oily skin however, and have been diligently working on my skincare routine to combat this (upcoming post).  But I will add, lasting five out of eight working hours on my oily skin – that’s a pretty good bang for my buck.

Overall score, I give it a 7/10 for immediate smooth and flawless finish.

Below I’ve used it to set my foundation, highlight my under eyes, forehead and chin as well as reverse contour below my cheekbones.  Yes, the photo is touched up to hide lines and blemishes.

What is your favourite loose setting powder?

 

xoxo

Ree

 

Thank You 2015

It’s hard to believe another year has gone by. When I look back over this year I catch myself thinking what did I do? What was memorable? Did I make new friends? What did I learn? Did I grow? Did I leave people behind? Did I work through my goals? So many questions pop up and I get overwhelmed. But tonight as I sit down and relax, I now have some time to reflect.

I remember this time last year I wanted to work on relationships with family and friends. And while it’s been another tough year in the books for me, I will say that I definitely tried. This was a year of firsts without my mum and boy was it hard. But once again I was able to rely on family that matters. The ones who don’t judge you and are literally there for you from the beginning and will stay until the end. When people show you their true colours, you better believe them.

I know my friendships are still there and that will be something I will continue to work on. I am grateful for the friends that understand the distance I’ve kept and still welcome me with open arms. Forget friends, I call ’em family too. I’ve endured a lot of emotional stress this year and knowing that I can surround myself great lively company and pick up where I’ve left off is where true friendship lies. I am thankful.

Going forward in this new year, it really does feel like I’m starting with a clean slate. I feel almost relieved this year is coming to an end and eager to start 2016 right. I’m excited to rekindle more friendships and acknowledge some great acquaintances. The thing is, I haven’t forgotten anyone. So I will make it a goal to let them know.

This year I was stuck in my mind. It was louder that my heart. So for the new year I’ll go back to the drawing board work on my relationship with myself. I’m definitely more sure of my goals and what I want, and I can’t wait to share it. This blog has taken a back seat and I am ready to unleash my creativity for you. I can’t wait create new music and put out good quality and interactive content. And maybe I’ll actually design this year. Lol.

And with that, I thank you for stopping by to read my blog even if there’s no new content. It doesn’t go unnoticed. Your interest is appreciated. 🙂

Here’s to new beginnings. Welcome 2016, let’s kick some ass.

xoxo

Ree

Book Review: The Sweet Life

The Sweet Life by Dulce Candy Ruiz

I’m an avid Youtube viewer and have grown a liking to many different Youtube channels.  Dulce Candy for one, was actually the very first Youtuber I started watching regularly.  Her cute, simply clean cut style can easily be relatable and she makes great quality videos.  I’ve been following her since 2010!  So when she announced earlier this year that she’ll be releasing her own memoir/manifesto, I was beyond excited.  She’s one of the more down to earth vloggers so I figured the style of her book would mimic her video style and keep it conversational.

It starts off with her childhood, growing up in Mexico before settling in California.  She vividly takes you through her experience crossing the Mexican-American border before getting into her modest upbringing in California.  You can feel her struggle with self esteem and the need to fit in during her adolescent years – something we can all relate to at some point in our lives – before heading down the wrong path.

She then joins the US Army in hopes to gain focus in her life as well as self confidence, and that’s where she develops her liking for makeup while in front of the camera.  The book walks you through the very beginning of her Youtube career along with her struggles of staying true to herself while creating relevant content for her viewers.

Altogether, it’s a great read especially for young women of today growing up in a society that still focuses on physical appearance and offers an abundance of beauty products and fast fashion.  Dulce Candy manages to peel back these layers and steers the spotlight on you, and asks you what your passion is and what you can do to help combat fear and present the best you today.  Not too bad for a Youtuber.

The Sweet Life is now available at Indigo/Chapters in Canada.

 

xoxo

Ree

 

Back to School: Kids Edition

Summer is coming to an end! We’re in the last few days of the summer break and students are gearing up for the new school year.

Those with young kids know the drill of getting new clothes and supplies every year. Kids grow fast!  And with that, a shopping trip will have to do in order to get those stretching limbs fit into new gear. I’m a big fan of H&M and Joe Fresh for children’s clothing. Not only are they stylish and comfortable, but they are budget friendly and you could get a couple years wear out of them when taken care of really well.

Below are some easy outfits after a recent back-to-school shopping haul little sister Indira.

                       

Top, jeans, ankle boots: H&M

Cat ears headband: Ebay

                       

Entire look: H&M

                           

Top, jeans, ankle boots: H&M

Denim vest: Children’s Place

Bomber jacket: Joe Fresh

              

Top (last year), joggers: H&M

Nike Free 5.0 Kids

Cardigan, t-shirt, jeans: H&M

Nike Free 5.0 Kids

            

Entire look: H&M

           

Cardigan, pants, ankle boots: H&M

T-shirt (last year): Joe Fresh

          

Top, pants, ankle boots: H&M

Fringe vest: Ardene

All photos are property of Herstylestory.

New Music!

I’m finally on Soundcloud! Ok let me rephrase that.  I’ve finally started making music again and actually recording it now.  Head Space and Sit Down have been up for a while but I haven’t been doing my part sharing them so here they are for your enjoyment!  They’re both a fusion of Electronic, Hip Hop, Reggae and R&B.  I listen to a little bit of everything but I’m very much influenced by those genres especially Reggae as I grew up on it.  For now they are just instrumentals but hopefully down the road I’ll muster up the courage to put on some vocals.

Check out Rehana_xo on Soundcloud and let me know what you think!

A little bit about my music background.  I grew up singing in choirs my entire school life and loved every bit of it.  I remember vividly in grade eight, attending choir competitions throughout the year.  This particular year, the ‘popular’ kids caught on to one of the perks of being in the choir (skipping class for competitions and performances!) and our school choir nearly tripled in size!  We had to shuffle around the initial members including myself and next thing you know, I went from soprano to alto in order to help blend the harmonies.  I remember the original members were so unhappy with the new group we took it upon ourselves to form a smaller choir where you had to audition in order to join.  Ahh the joys of remembering my 14 year old self.

Anyway, at that same age I bought a guitar and taught my self chords and I’ve been in love since then.  I went on to penning my own songs in my spare time throughout high school and even joined the guitar club.  I also played euphonium (small baritone) in my high school concert band and performed on a few student run talent shows in both middle school and high school – nothing big though.

I’m constantly inspired by different sounds and vocals and I’m able to just zone in on one aspect of a song such as instrumentals and focus on each layer of instrument.  It’s pretty fascinating but takes a lot of concentration, almost like meditation.

Music’s just always been a part of my make up as a person.  For me it seamlessly takes me to another realm and I can forget about any mishaps even if it’s just for a few minutes.

 

xoxo

Ree

 

After Summer Glow

As Summer starts to wind down we start thinking back to school and back to work.  What I don’t like to lose is that toasty summer glow I get from just being out and about in the city or even a day trip up to Wasaga or Sauble Beach.  One day in the sun is enough for me to tan about three to four shades darker (trust me, I have the tan lines to prove) and last the entire summer and fall!  With that, I like to continue this effect by using products that’ll prolong my tan without trying to bask in the sun on a chilly fall day.  Like who wants to do that?

I keep my eyes neutral with a little shimmer, lightly bronzed cheeks with some highlighting and a nude pink lip. Below is my After Summer Glow, similar to my Spring look but more sultry.  How do you keep your Summer glow?

All product information and links to follow.

Face:

BECCA Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector

CLINIQUE Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer in Cream Caramel

CLINIQUE Acne Solutions Powder in Cream Caramel

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural in Dark

QUO Mosaic Shimmer Bronzer in Dark

URBAN DECAY Setting Spray for Oil Control

Eyes:

BENIFIT Brow Zings in Dark (eyebrows)

URBAN DECAY Eyeshadow Primer in Original

MISSY LYNN PALETTE by BH Cosmetics

QUO Liquid Liner in Black

L’oreal Telescopic Mascara in Carbon Black

Lips:

MAC Prep + Prime Lip 

MAC Lip Pencil in Cork

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm in Sultry

All brushes by QUO available at Shoppers Drug Mart

Pucker Up!

NOTE: My apologies for absolutely NO posts last Month.  Going forward, I will let you know when I’ll be taking any hiatus in the future. Much Love. 

I should admit it.  I’m a lipstick junkie.  And while I’m fully immersed in the neutral trend right now, I have successfully swapped out all my fall/winter lippies for more vibrant spring/summer hues.

Below are my go to lip colours for the warmer days to come.

Revlon Colour Burst – Shameless

Revlon’s Colour Burst matte balms are super easy to apply and super affordable.  Not to mention, Shameless is almost a drugstore dupe for MAC’s Heroine!

MAC – Up The Amp

MAC’s Up The Amp is the perfect light purple/pink shade for a pop of colour or to even add more to an already colourful ensemble.

MAC – Girl About Town

Girl About town is one of my favourite shades to wear on a summer evening with a simple cat eye liner and black dress.

MAC – Heroine

Heroine is one of my all time favourites from MAC.  It’s bold and creates the right amount of edge for any soft spring/summer look.

MAC – Rebel

Rebel was the first MAC lipstick I ever purchased and has since been a staple in my collection.  This shade is great for nights out with a bold deep colour.

MAC Pro Longwear – Positively Dashing

I’m sure you’ve caught on to the pattern by now! MAC lip fanatic over here!  The Pro Longwear Collection is one of my faves.  Positively Dashing is the perfect rosy pink for spring.  Another fave was So Very Good but unfortunately they’ve discontinued it.

Marc Jacobs – Rei of Light

This is a recent purchase I couldn’t pass up when I tried it.  I’ve been looking for an orange/red since last year and since I’m more on the darker side, I needed something more red than orange and this was the perfect shade.  It glides on creamy and finishes matte.  Marc Jacobs‘ Rei of Light is available at Sephora.

MAC – Taupe

Taupe is my favourite lip colour to wear right now.  I wear it alone or on top of my Cork lip pencil for a slightly darker nude shade.

MAC – Del Rio

Del Rio is the perfect transition shade.  It has a hint of plum, red and brown all in one.  I see myself wearing this colour during Fall as well.

Revlon Colour Burst – Sultry

Another favourite right now by Revlon.  I wear Sultry on top of MAC’s Cork liner to give it a rustic pink.

EOS Lip Balm – Strawberry

Lastly, I cannot forget hydration!  Before I apply any lip product, I always have my EOS Lip Balm on hand.  It keeps my lips hydrated without compromising the product colour.

What are your favourite spring/summer lippies?

xoxo Ree