11 Clothing & Beauty Winter Essentials

Leave a comment January 7, 2022 kaycewrightt

Despite growing up in the south, I have learned a thing or two about the winter. I have lived in the midwest for five years, and am in the beginning of my first Chicago winter. These things are NO JOKE! The negative wind chills really aren’t my thing, but I know some essentials that help make the cold days even a little bit better. While yes, coats and hats are needed to bear the cold months, there are other items that make them just a little bit better (:

Beanies

Let’s start out simple with beanies – everyone always has them, everyone always needs more. Now that I walk everywhere, I almost always wear a beanie as I walk out the door – so my collection is growing. This season, The Ganni beanies are all the rage. BUT, they are pricey sitting at just under $100.

Luckily, I have found them for $68 on SSENSE.

Blanket Scarves

Again, starting out with the basics. But surprisingly, I didn’t have a solid scarf until I moved to Chicago. And now that I have one – the addiction begins. Acne Studios scarves have been the star of every fall and winter for the past few seasons, and they have not gone anywhere. The colorful blanket scarf is essential to your winter wardrobe. I went into Madewell to buy one and the employee there said it best – “If a scarf isn’t swallowing my face, then I don’t want it”.

If the beloved Acne Studios scarf is out of reach but you love the look of it, try these affordable options from Madewell, Forever 21 and Saks Off 5th.

Weather Proof Boots

Okay, yes, Uggs are back in. And I love that. I have worn my Uggs non stop, but once we got our first big snow my boots were basically destroyed and had to dry for days. SO, I resorted to my 2017 Sorel’s that definitely need an upgrade. Having a cute weatherproof shoe is key to getting through the months of January through April.

Some boots that I have had my eye on are there Sherpa Sorel’s, and the 90’s cult favorite Moon Boot.

Quality Skincare

As I have began to make my own money you pick and choose where you prioritize your extra spending money, and I have found mine to be skincare. Buying quality skincare that works for you is worth every penny – especially in the winter. My skin dries and breaks out out horribly as soon as it hits below 30 degrees, and the fix to this for me has been Sunday Riley. While I use Sunday Riley in other forms of skincare such as acne treatment, anti-aging, etc., some of their products have saved my skin from completely drying out. The two products that help my skin the most in the winter the Juno face oil and Tidal water cream.

Vest

I talked about the comeback of the vest in my 2021 Trend Forecasting article and I was (decently) spot on. Puffer was huge again this winter, including puffer vest. Aside from a puffer, any oversized vest is the perfect combo between style and warmth. This vest from Storets has been seen everywhere, and is on sale in multiple colors.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses in the winter sounds weird, but are much needed when the sun reflects off of a fresh layer of snow. And, what is better than a new pair of sunglasses? These are Devon Windsor from Revolve, and remind me of a lot of top designer sunglasses from Bottega, Dior and Celine.

Other sunglasses on my list are the Rayban Burbank, and the Rayban Julie.

Skin Tight Layers

Layering is everything in the winter, and at the base of every good layering is a skin tight turtleneck. I have this shirt from Aritzia in three colors, and wear this on its own or under crewnecks.

Another skin tight layer that I love is again, from Aritzia, and is the TNA Cropped Ribbed Long Sleeve.

Big Bags

The micro bag trend is cute, but definitely not practical in the winer. For Christmas I got a larger bag that carrier more than my debit card and lip balm, and it has been a game changer. Especially when wearing a large coat, these small bags don’t cut it. I have loved the Puffin Bag from Simon Miller, and for winter the black sterling puffin is unreal.

Other larger bags that I love are the By Far Amber Bag, Stand Studio Lola Tote, and vintage designer totes.

Lip Balm

I am sure you have seen this lip mask all over TikTok, but it truly has kept my ultra dry lips in check through the past few months. I apply this mask in the morning and at night, and sometimes put it on with a lip liner before I run out the door to go to a dinner or drinks.

If you want a more on-the-go lip balm that is just as shiny and nourishing, try the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm.

The Super Puff

Yes, not just any winter coat. THE Super Puff from Aritzia. If you know me at all you know that there is nothing more that I love than this jacket. They are such good quality for the price that they are, which is why I have continued to purchase multiple. Save yourself the time and order one online now.

Hydrating Body Wash

You know the feeling when you get out of the shower and IMMEDIATELY need to put on lotion? The worst. This body wash is my favorite because it is so hydrating, and the ingredients are clean which is perfect for sensitive skin. Pair this with the Necessaire exfoliator and body lotion afterwards and your winter skin will be unmatched.

Beauty Trends For The Everyday Minimalist To Try

Leave a comment July 8, 2021 kaycewrightt

When it comes to beauty I normally keep things very tame. Same makeup, skincare and hair care every day. If you know me you know I have a hard time wearing colors as I tend to stick to neutrals – just seems more practical in my opinion. But over the past few months color has taken over my Instagram feed and TikTok big time. Colorful nails, hair accessories, etc. are all the rage. While they are definitely in style I just can’t seem to hop on some of the trends that seem so “out there”. Not because I am afraid to wear a bright lip or anything of that sorts, but just because it doesn’t feel like myself. And when it comes to fashion or beauty, that is all I am trying to accomplish; feeling like myself.

I have been wanting to branch out of my normal neutral color palette in terms of beauty and still manage to feel comfortable with what I have on. If you are in the same boat, here are some beauty trends for you to try to step up your everyday looks.

Bright Blush

Something that I have changed up the past few months is switching up the blush I use from day to day. Recently, Kylie Jenner has been using Dior Backstage’s Rosy Glow Blush, which comes in two super pigmented colors. Definitely a good summer look.

Patterned Nails

Nail art is extremely popular right now and I love it. But something I don’t love is worrying about is if my nails are going to match my outfit or not – which is why I want to try neutral nail art. Still part of the trend, but ensured to match everything you wear.

P.S. – I think the colorful nail art is popular in the summer, but we will be seeing more neutral nail art coming up in the fall.

Colorful Eyeliner

Not eyeshadow; eyeliner. Liquid colorful eyeliner I think adds such a chic yet playful look to your makeup routine, and I really would like to try it myself. Chose the right color eyeliner for your eyes pop!

Hint: chose an eye liner that is complementary of your eye color.

Dewy Highlighter

Something I tend to skip in my everyday makeup is highlighter, which I shouldn’t because in my opinion it elevates your whole look. Especially in the summer – this is a must. To get the most glowy, dewy look go for a liquid highlighter like Becca Ignite Liquid Highlighter.

Upgraded Up-Do’s

Knowing how to style an up-do is essential especially during these hot summer months. I have been wearing my hair in a ponytail constantly and trying to style it different just to switch things up. Again, not a large change but something slight to get me to try something new.

My up-do go-to’s: slicked back ponytail, claw clips, and pigtail braids.

Shimmer Eyeshadow

This 2000’s trend is making a large comeback in the world of beauty. This is the easiest thing you could add to your makeup routine, as you don’t even need a brush to apply it. Shimmer eyeshadow is so forgiving, effortless and simple which is perfect to upgrade your everyday minimalist look.

Try the cult favorite Stila Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow or if you want to get this look from Hailey Bieber, opt for the Bare Minerals Gen Nude Rose Palette.

February Favorites

Leave a comment March 1, 2021 kaycewrightt

I haven’t done one of these in a while, but I have so many favorites from this past month that I have to share. These things bettered my February from beauty to food to fashion – three of my favorite things.

New Balance 990 V5 Sneaker

I have styled these shoes in my blog post about Aritzia’s spring TNA collection, and have worn them almost everyday. For me, these are the new Jordan 1’s and Air Forces. Calling the shots now!

TNA The Super Puff Mid

This jacket was a lifesaver up north. I have never had a Canada Goose, but people who have had both jackets have said this is equally & if not warmer. I tend to wear only neutral colors, so getting this bright red color spiced up my winter outfits a bit.

Love Wellness Bye Bye Bloat

If you have any sort of hormonal bloating, these are a game changer. This is a horrible problem for me and I can genuinely say that these have saved me from the uncomfort of bloating. Being bloated is OKAY and totally NORMAL, but especially if you have stomach problems it can hurt, and this definitely helps.

Crate & Barrel Clear Mugs

I got these mugs as a Christmas gift and I am obsessed with them! I love drinking coffee, tea, etc. so being able to see the drinks that I make every morning in an aesthetic way makes them ten times more enjoyable.

ALV Jewels Snake Chain

I have been eyeing ALV Jewels for forever! I went in to my local boutique and they had these chains in stock and as soon as I left the store I put it on. I will wear this on it’s own or in a stack and it is super versatile to dress up or down. I cannot wait to order more from ALV Jewels to pair with this one (:

Outdoor Voices Shorts & Crop Top

I bought this set a few months back and have gotten SO much wear out of them. The crop top fits like a sports bra and is great to do a high (ish) intensity workouts in or to wear casually while running errands. And the shorts suck you in and are the perfect workout shorts!

Because We Got High Podcast

This new Barstool podcast was recommended to me by my roommate and is the perfect “mindless” podcast to listen to while doing something else. The host do their episodes in alphabetical order, picking three topics under that letter to talk about that week. Super interesting and entertaining to listen to while you clean your room, drive, cook, etc.

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Vitamin C Cream

I used to use the Drunk Elephant Vitamin C Serum which I love, but needed something heavier to brighten my skin. I got this to brighten my skin and give it moisture at the same time since the my skin gets so dry living up north. This was the PERFECT combo, and I use it every morning. Couldn’t complete my morning routine without it!

My Sephora Must-Haves

Leave a comment January 10, 2021 kaycewrightt

As much as I would love to have a Sephora sponsor me, I am definitely not at their scale – yet – for influencer marketing. Sephora is my ride or die for clean beauty products, as I have very sensitive skin and hair and need to take care of it carefully. I have recently become beauty obsessed to the point where I go to Sephora just as a way to boost my serotonin. But who doesn’t love a good self care shopping spree as self care.

I have tested many products over the past six months that I absolutely love, and you need to try them too. Here are my top eight products you need to add to your Sephora basket ASAP.

ILIA Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil

I have only had this product for a month or so but I am already planning on purchasing a second. The shade “Only You” is the perfect pink-nude color that gives you a moisturized pout all day. I do reapply a few times throughout the day, but it does not build to be flaky.

Makeup By Mario Master Pigement Pro Eyeliner Pencil

This eyeliner pencil is PERFECT if you are trying to achieve a smoked out winged liner look. I am terrified of liquid liner, but this is so buildable and easy to blend. I give this a four out of five because this does smudge off easily, even with setting spray.

Kosas Tinted Face Oil Foundation

I do not like to wear heavy foundation, so this is the perfect alternative. I purchased this back in March as a lightweight, minimal coverage product to add to my skincare and it does just that. I still use this as an everyday coverage, and even when I am doing a full face. The easiest 5/5 I will give.

Nécessaire Body Wash

Another easy 5/5. The products this brand puts out are so clean and perfect for my sensitive skin. I have used the eucalyptus scented body wash which I love, but the fragrance free allows you to get out of the shower and lather up any scented lotion or perfume you want without mixing scents.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

This is the ONLY lip balm I can use to cure chapped lips. This is perfect to wear during the day, or can be left on overnight as a treatment. My mom has been trying to cure her chapped lips, even with dermatologist prescribed products. Nothing worked until she used this. I cannot recommend this enough.

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

This serum I was hesitant about at first. Sunday Riley is such a credited brand, but I did not like how this initially felt on my face. It stung, which prompted me to wash it off. Trying again, I can’t believe I wasted the product like that! I pair this with the U.F.O Acne Oil a few times a week and it clears up my skin better than any other skincare product I have ever used.

Pureology Color Fanatic Multitasking Leave-In Spray

For about a year I have started to color my hair slightly lighter. This has lead to some hair damage that I have been searching to cure – and THIS IS IT! This product single-handedly changed the texture of my hair. I use this multitasking detangler and heat protectant after I towel dry my hair. My hair has NEVER been so soft or shiny in my life. If there is one thing you take away from this blog post, it is that you need this hair care staple.

Maison Margiela ‘REPLICA’ Springtime In The Park Fragrance

This scent may not be everyone’s favorite, but if you like floral scents this is for you. I have received so many compliments on this scent and it last ALL day. This is such a high end fragrance that brings you back to warm weather days.