Friday 5: In the Clutch

1. Patricia Wexler Instant Airbrush Line Smoothing SuperConcealer

Staying up 'til the sun comes up doesn't mean you have to look like it. Get immediate coverage of your raccoon eyes and lift those late night lines in a flash! Plus, it's not all just about instant gratification — with continued use you'll see the anti-aging benefits.

2. Black Amethyst Eau de Toilette Luxe Travel Spray

Ok, so I'm slightly obsessed with Black Amethyst...but honestly, it's beyond sexy and ultra-modern and goes from boardroom to bedroom in just one mist...

3. Hello Kitty Key Cap

Can you say geek chic? And who doesn't love Hello Kitty on EVERYTHING?!

4. Miss Army Knife

Flashlight? Check. Tweezers? Check. Screwdriver? Check.

From needle and thread, to a safety pin, knife, ruler, scissors, corkscrew and more — this one tiny (and cute!) tool has 16 gadgets to get you out of any pinch in a cinch!

5. Emma Gordon Clutch

This little Brit knows how to make a fab bag! Making ruffles and roses look grown up while still girly and fun is no easy task, but each of her Etsy creations is the perfect carryall for all your night out necessities.

{photo cred: bbw, mod cloth, miss army kit, etsy}

Nobody Puts Baby in the Corner

I've always had this bizarre dream that I would one day perform a one-woman show that re-enacts the cinematic classic, Dirty Dancing. 

But, it looks as though the remake is going on without me — with Charlyne Yi and Channing Tatum. Now, it's no one-woman show (more of a loose interpretation of only the infamous scenes), but if you ask me, they capture Johnny and Baby's I-just-want-to-dance tension brilliantly.

If you haven't seen the movie (let me first ask, what's wrong with you?!) — here are your Cliffs Notes.

This is possibly the best 5 minutes and 50 seconds that you've ever spent watching a YouTube video — I guarantee it!

{P.S. It seems I'm a little video crazy today — SORRY!}

Singing in the Shower: Bathwater

Still completely in love with this song!

The Daily Spritz: Summer Lust

There are 2 things you can put in front of me and I'll squeal "gimme, gimme, gimme" every time: a citrus fragrance and an atomizer.

As I was spritzing my way through the shelves and shelves of C.O. Bigelow fragrances (if you're a fragrance lover and you haven't been to COB, you'll be like a kid in a candy store) I came across a sparkling orange bottle with the most precious little atomizer! And once I spritzed...I was hooked! 

Mandarine Tout Simplement is simply too sweet for words. It spritzes on as a bright, bubbly blend of citrus spiked with ginger. And now, as I sit here a few hours later, the dry notes have taken over and deep cedar notes are coming through and are the perfect balance to the juicy summer top notes. 

This sheer Eau de Toilette is a tart surprise at first mist that fades to a much warmer woodsy gem and it definitely isn't just a summer-only scent — I'd wear this in ANY season as a pick-me-up or to just keep the summer lovin' alive a little bit longer!

Unfortunately, I've got a little sticker shock ($125!!!), so I'll just keep this blotter card nearby 'til it fades away just like summer...

---

UPDATE: Ultimately, I just can't shake this case of summer lust! So, I ordered a sample online (free, but $7 for shipping!). I suppose I'll just stow it away for occasional wear. Too bad the sample doesn't have an atomizer!

{photo cred: l'artisan parfumeur}

Living In Sin: Décor Dealbreakers

The girls over at The Frisky are FULL of valuable insight on all things love, sex and style.

But, yesterday I was catching up on some missed stories from the past week and one in particular caught my eye...

Nine Things You Should Figure Out Before Moving In Together offers a lot of practical wisdom on chores and arguments, but it got me thinking that they're definitely missing something — forget an "exit strategy," you MUST have a décor strategy! 

For instance, my boyfriend and I have been dating and living together for 3 years now. I'm hot pink, eclectic, ruffles and polka dots. He's black leather, ultra-modern, chrome and empty walls. When we first decided to move in together, I never even dreamed of the spats we'd get in over the simplest little bits of decoration (like hanging a mail sorter...seriously, it happened).

So my suggestion: create a list of décor dealbreakers. 

Don't be shy. This is your chance to say what you love and what you loathe. List colors, fabrics, textures, styles...maybe even include photos of looks you'd love to recreate or even ideas you'd NEVER want to see in your space.

The next step: be prepared to compromise. 

So, we can't afford to get rid of our entire matching collection of black leather manly living room furniture, BUT I compromised by replacing the bulky rocker with a new one that is sleek and chic (while still black leather) and we're currently saving up for a sofa and love seat that we BOTH love. Sure, he hates pillows, polka dots and all things girly, BUT he compromised by letting me bring in black and white polka dot sheets for our bed and a few throw pillows to mask the manliness of the couch. 

So you see, compromise...it's BEYOND essential to maintaining the peace. 

So, what are your décor dealbreakers?

And, is there anything you'd add to the list of things to figure out before you move in together?

Tell me below in the comments.

P.S. This is what our sofa looks like...you see my dilemma now?  ;)

{photo cred: sheknows.com, homefurniture2go.com}

Monday Mist-erpiece

Who wouldn't love tons of beautiful little bottles lining her vanity like this?

{photo cred: janeheller.etsy.com}

Stealin' On Sunday: Twig & Thistle

Out of sheer Sunday laziness...stealing this little beauty from Twig & Thistle to brighten the final hours of the weekend. Bea-u-ti-ful!

{photo cred: twig & thistle}

Little Miss Mommy You Need These NOW!

All Little Miss Mommies need to visit Petite Alma immediately!

Could these notecards be more adorable?

{photo cred: petite alma}

The Daily Spritz: Say 'I dew!'

It might seem slightly counterproductive to my rain-rain-go-away mood, but I can't resist this scent on a rainy day  — there's nothing like Rainkissed Leaves on a stormy summer afternoon.

Plus, the Fragrance Mist is super delicate and much more green than the icky, humid rain I'm dealing with. So, when I head out to run errands just one mist will make me feel refreshed!

{photo cred: bbw}

Rain, Rain Go AWAY!

Why is it ALWAYS raining on my Saturdays?

{photo cred: ali}

Friday 5: Darling for Date Night

1. Ruffle Dress

Flirty is an understatement...these are ruffles done right for a sizzling night out or a summer fling!

{$24.80}

2. Bow Necklace

Pretty with just a touch of punk.

{$9}

3. Ruffle Panties

The perfect sexy and sweet surprise that's your little secret...for now!

{$18.50}

4. Bow Clutch

This is what going out glam is all about and it's the perfect size for all of your essentials.

{$19.98}

5. Black Amethyst Fragrant Waters Roll-On

Have sexy, will travel...roll this on whenever and wherever you need a touch-up of your Signature scent. 

{$7.50}

{photo cred: bbw, forever21, wet seal, aldo, plasticland}

Spritz School: Fragrance Notes

They don't call me Little Miss Nose It All for nothin'! As your resident nose, it's my duty to give you the DL on all things fragrance. So, today let's begin your eau education with the basics...fragrance notes!

Here's what you need to know before you spritz.

{top notes}

Light and quickly evaporating, these notes are your first impression of any fragrance. 

{mid notes}

These are the heart of the fragrance and really work as a complement as they fade into the dry notes.

{dry notes}

In combination with the mid notes, these are the main composition of any fragrance — this is what you know and love it for. Generally, these deep, rich notes aren't experienced until about 30 minutes after you first mist up. 

Need to brush up on your fragrance basics? 

Let me know what you need a refresher course in in the comments below!

{photo cred: adrian valencia}

6 Sure-Fire Ways to Stop a Headache

Want to know my secret weapon to remedying any situation...accessorize it!

A headache is NO exception. All it takes is 6 pretty little head-pounding problem solvers to do the trick!

1. Lambie Eye Mask 

No need to count sheep when you're one of the flock.

2. Capsule-Shaped Pill Container

Leave it to The Container Store to make carrying pills around look ADORABLE!

(I originally got this as a gift from Little Mrs. Newlywed as part of my bridesmaid survival kit and I don't leave home without it now!)

3. Aromatherapy Stress Relief Tranquil Mint Candle

The flicker of candlelight puts relaxation in the air immediately.

4. Instant Aromatherapy Headache Relief

I roll a little of this on my wrists and temples. (Miracle worker is an understatement!)

5. Polka Dot Teacup

If the sunny yellow or the polka dots don't cheer you up...nothing will!

6. Teal Teapot

Get a little peppermint tea steeping in this baby and you're all set!

{photo cred: bbw, bloomingdale's, the container store, the teapot shoppe}

Little Miss Birthday Girl!

Happy birthday to you,

Happy birthday to you.

Happy birthday, Little Mrs. Newlywed,

Happy birthday to you!

xo♥

{photo cred: modern radar}

Pretty in Pink

From blush to bashful to every shade of pink in-between...pink IS my signature color!

1. Essie Nail Polish in Jam n' Jelly — The perfect excuse for a summer pedicure.

2. Scentportable in Sweet Pea — Have scent, will travel!

3. C.O. Bigelow Tropical Lip Shine in Lychee — Tropical fruit juice meets super lip shine.

4. Pretty in Pink — Classic. Pink. Duckie. Love.

5. Wexler MMPi 20 Skin Regenerating Serum — This intriguing pink serum fights skin-destroying enzymes AND leaves your face feeling silky smooth.

6. Victoria's Secret PINK Collegiate Hoodies — OK, so they're not all pink like this one...but search for your college and see what cute loungewear appears.

7. Pink Macaroon — If dropping into Ladurée for one of these fluffly french concoctions isn't in your immediate future, try patronizing a local patisserie (I like Columbus' Pistacia Vera.)

8. Signature Collection Eau de Toilette in Midnight Pomegranate — I love how this fragrance deepens from sweet and juicy to spicy and sexy.

9. Cheekier Ruched Bikini in Raspberry Wish — Amazingly enough these come in 3 levels of cheekiness!

10. Adidas Superstar 2 in High Pink — Street meets chic: a sneaker lover's dream come true.

11. iPod Nano in Pink — You won't regret falling for this little pink gem.

{photo cred: essie, bbw, amazon, victoriassecret, pistaciavera, adidas, apple}

Monday Mist-erpiece

Another day, another signature scent!

{photo cred: vol25.etsy.com}

Little Miss Mommy…Reporting for Diaper Duty!

Little Miss Mommy here, and I want to share ALL my secrets on how to maintain your style and identity while still feeling fully functional as a mom with your new little one.
Here are a few essential items that are must haves any time I even consider leaving the house!

1. A great bag!
It doesn’t even have to be an actual diaper bag just one that will fit all your fabulous baby gear and that will complement your style. I chose one that was neutral enough to be appropriate no matter what the occasion — The Le Sport Sac Stella McCartney Classic Carryall in Moss….it’s long on style as well as all the essential pockets you need to hold everything from bottles to diapers and even your cell phone! I paid a little bit more but it was worth it…this bag has to go everywhere I do.


2. Amy Coe’s “Changing Station” in Chocolate Swirl
This is a self-contained diaper changing system with pockets for holding all the necessities…and it folds down to travel easily in your diaper bag. The cute swirly design keeps it stylish.

3. Amy Coe’s Diapers & Wipes Case
Matches the changing stations and fits several diapers inside!

4. Travel-Size Baby Wipes
I like Pampers brand for sensitive skin. They are unscented and don’t cover up the yummy scent my little girl already has (and the don’t mask my own signature scent!).
SUPER SECRET MOMMY TIP: They work double duty for getting out spit up stains, too!

5. Aquaphor
Just in case baby’s bum needs a little extra TLC…nothing works like Aquaphor to soothe my baby’s irritated skin.

6. Bath & Body Works Look Ma New Hands Hand Lotion with Paraffin
This is the absolute best hand lotion I’ve ever used!
Great for moisturizing post hand washing (which I’m doing constantly now)… It’s not just a diaper bag essential, it’s at every sink too!

7. Soothie Pacifiers
I know that not everyone agrees with the use of pacifiers, but I personally find these to be lifesavers when my little one starts having a public meltdown! My lactation consultant said baby’s desire to suck is almost as strong as her need to feed, and if you’re not opposed I highly recommend these
They aren’t flat like the orthodontic variety, so they won’t flatten your baby’s tongue (which means no funny nipple shape for you post breast feeding…who knew?!).

8. Bath & Body Work’s Signature Collection Fragrance Mist
(Ok, this one’s just for me!)
Right now I have it in White Citrus (perfect for summer).
It’s a great way to travel with fragrance for quick pick me ups on the go and to help mask odors from possible spit up occasions.

9. Bath & Body Work’s Antibacterial PocketBac™ Hand Sanitizer
I love these…awesome for on the spot hand sanitation when you need it most (which is always with baby)…and since it’s such a great mini size, I don’t have to pick just one fragrance!

The Daily Spritz: Forty Winks in a Flash

I'm having a rough day...

Well, let me clarify: now that I'm home in my pjs, cuddling on the couch with the puppies and have just placed my half-eaten pint of Coffee Haagen Dazs back in the freezer (yummm...dinner!) I'm having a FABULOUS evening. Up until this point though, the day was not so kind (to put it lightly).

So, my signature scent for the day isn't exactly something I'm spritzing on. 

Instead I'm spritzing it on my bed!

I am in DESPERATE need of some beauty sleep. No tossing. No turning. 

I just want to close my eyes and tell those sheep to leave me be!

My daily spritz fix today is Aromatherapy Sleep Black Chamomile Detox Pillow Mist.

It's a lullaby in a bottle — the chamomile lulls you to sleep and bamboo charcoal extract helps your body detox while you dream. It sounds pretty exotic, but it's simply perfect.

PLUS - SUPER SECRET LITTLE MISS NOSE IT ALL TIP: After I take care of my pillowcases and sheets, I even plan on sharing with the doggies. I'll give their beds a few mists to ensure they're just as comfy and cozy as me (and selfishly it's in hopes that they sleep in tomorrow and don't wake me up before my alarm goes off!).

{photo cred: bbw}

Vanity Affair

This past weekend, my husband and I had some friends over for a dinner party — I planned the perfect meal, selected a great wine and of course created a rockin' playlist. But while I was windexing the vanity mirror, I realized I had completely overlooked this all-important room. I wasted no time in transforming our boring bathroom into a little spa sanctuary — and it wasn't nearly as hard as you may think!

Step 1: Set the Mood

I am a fan of candle light over bright, utilitarian light anytime, anywhere — and the bathroom is no exception. Slatkin & Co. 3-Wick Candles burn beautifully; not only does the pool melt look great, it provides for maximum fragrance. I like Fresh Linen for its clean, crisp scent.

Step 2: Get Your Suds On

My guests love that I always provide a variety of hand soaps and lotions so they can choose a familiar fragrance; or, if they are feeling adventurous, discover a new favorite.

C.O. Bigelow Lemon Hand Wash — This lemon-y apothecary creation is an all-natural, all-around crowd pleaser. I like how it doesn't dry out your skin. My husband likes how it doesn't smell girly.

Signature Collection Anti-Bacterial Deep Cleansing Hand Soap — This is great for all of my germaphobic friends, and the fragrance options are practically unlimited. My current fragrance-of-choice is Warm Vanilla Sugar for it's sweet yet comforting scent.

CleanWell All-Natural Foaming Handsoap in Lavender — A great option for the nature lovers in your life, this gentle cleanser packs an amazingly fragrant punch.

True Blue Spa Just A Minute 60-Second Manicure Scrub — It's the next best thing to a manicure, and your friends will thank you for it.

True Blue Spa Look Ma, New Hands Softening Hand Lotion with Paraffin — Ultra-pampering, ultra-softening and ultra-necessary. Don't skimp — I have found the spa size to be completely worth it.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

Consider your guests needs; make all of your life-saving bathroom supplies available by neatly displaying items like cotton swabs, floss and nail files in glass jars. I like the new look of Ball's Contemporary pint-sized glass jars. Last but not least, top off the vanity with a stack of clean, fluffy hand towels — we recently received Williams-Sonoma Heritage Towels as a wedding gift, and even my manly-man husband commented on the ultra-luxurious feel.

{photo cred: bbw} 

Monday Mist-erpiece

Isn't she EAU so lovely?

{photo cred: bswcollection.etsy.com}

The Daily Spritz: Lemon-Aid

Needed some sunny citrus to help me wake up on this sleepy Monday morning (the iced cappuccino helped too, but that's beside the point!).

Lemon EDP (Eau de Parfum) isn't just a sweet delicious twist, it's perfectly paired with a sensual, comforting touch of musk and vanilla. 

I smell a bit like a lemon cream cake...YUMMMMMMMMY!

{photo cred: bbw}

Summertime Blues

Cool down even the most sizzling summer day with a shot of true blue.

1. Signature Collection Sea Island Cotton™ Eau de Toilette

Just one mist and you'll feel coastal breezes tickling your skin.

2. Anti-Bacterial Unscented Waterless Hand Foam

Keeps your hands clean with a fun, fresh foam wherever you go.

3. Zebra Jelly Flip Flops

Jellies are back — and wilder than ever!

4. Signature Collection Dancing Waters™ Foaming Body Wash

Foam sweet foam is all you need to indulge in your Signature scent.

5. Signature Collection Dancing Waters™ Fragrant Waters Roll-On

Hey, roller girl — pop this in your bag and roll on light fragrance anytime, anywhere!

6. True Blue® Spa Massage Ball

Knotty girls...it's time to get the kinks out!

7. C.O. Bigelow Barber™ Elixir Blue Cologne

Refreshing and adventurous...just like your guy!

8. American Grown Montana Sky Hand Soap

Suds your way to clear blue summer skies.

9. True Blue® Morocco Shower Cream

Escape your everyday with exotic Moroccan rose petals and calming orange flower.

10. Aromatherapy Sleep Lavender Chamomile Massage Oil

There's nothing sleepless beauties love more than a lulling massage.

11. Slatkin & Co. Fresh Linen Candle

The flicker of 3-wicks puts summer in the air instantly.

{photo cred: bbw}

7 Girly Glam Umbrellas for a Rainy Saturday

I woke up this morning to a dark and stormy Saturday.

Although I can't clear the clouds, looking up at something super cute while I'm trying to stay dry out there would definitely help make the day a little sunnier.

Check out the 7 little lovelies that I'm lusting after now!

{photo cred: modcloth, mother to child, brollies galore, beyond the trap door, raindrops}

Aloha Oe!

Little Mrs. Newlywed here, just back (and just a little jet lagged!) from a honeymoon adventure on the exotic island of Maui, Hawaii. Although I couldn’t bring back the sun-drenched beach, the sparkling ocean or the lush mountains, I do have a few island secrets to share — from the best sunscreens to the sweetest shades, it’s the recession-friendly way to make your summer an endless one — island style!
A Hui Hou (Until we meet again!)


1. Get the Bronze But Not the Burn
Keep yourself safe from harmful UVA and UVB rays with True Blue Spa™ Zero Tolerance SPF 45 for Body and Face. Oil-free and fragrance-free, this is the non-greasy, non-coconut-y sun block we have all been wishing for.

2. Endless Summer Hair
Look like you just stepped off the beach with Fekkai’s Summer Hair Marine Beach Waves. Sand not included.

3. Have Dress, Will Travel
This jersey dress is the ultimate in comfort, whether you are sauntering along the boardwalk or the sidewalk. Over-the-shoulder strap removes to avoid tan lines. A structured bodice ensures it won’t slide down.

4. Forget the Gladiators (Sandals, That Is)
Maui resident Michael Mahnensmith’s handmade leather sandals are created from a design used 3,000 years ago by King Solomon’s desert warriors. Custom-fit to your foot, these attractive yet super-functional sandals (you can even run in them!) will help you conquer any modern-day challenge.

5. The Ultimate Island Accessory
Form and function unite in these seriously rockin’ Ray-Ban Aviators. Polarized lenses reduce reflections on shiny surfaces, so you won’t have to strain your eyes as you gaze (in your dreams) at the ocean.

6. Scentoxicating
No outfit is truly complete without an intoxicating scent to match. Inspired by an island breeze of luscious fruits and crisp citrus, Coconut Lime Verbena is perfect for those summer days...especially as they drift into summer nights.

7. Refresh Your iPod — And Your Sanity
Just say ‘No’ to toxic noises — construction equipment, loud neighbors and the overly negative co-worker. Instead try some relaxing, sure-to-transport-you-away Hawaiian tunes. I like Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s Facing Future, and, of course, Elvis’ Blue Hawaii. As the evening is winding down, try The Hawaiians' version of Aloha Oe. Close your eyes and you might just believe you are sitting under a palm tree.

{photo cred: bbw, jcrew, island sandals, ray-ban}

Summer Cleaning in Full Effect!

I'm one of those people...organized to a T and overly controlling with work projects, craft ventures and anything else that requires a timeline, a deadline and loads of collaboration. I make lists like a fiend and I'm super on top of every detail.

But, walk inside my house and that's a whole different story. It's kind of embarrassing just what a mess I can be sometimes. When it gets messy it gets MESSY! Pack rat is an understatement...piles of magazines, dusting is a feat and keeping up on the accumulating mail can get a little overwhelming.

Yesterday, however, when I got home from work I turned into Little Miss Clean (minus the shiny, bald head and gold hoop earring!). The time had come to get serious about the mess, and I decided to tackle the puppies first and foremost. Yes, I admit it — my dogs use a litter box (shhhhhhhh...PLEASE don't tell!) and the smell can get, well...less than pleasant. Who knew 2 tiny chihuahuas and a doxie could make such a HUGE stink cloud?!

I needed a quick-fix miracle, and of course the first place I looked was the land of all things fragranced...BBW! With a brand new Odor Elimination Collection (SERIOUSLY perfect timing) I figured I couldn't go wrong. And I was RIGHT!

All I got was the tiny little Scentportable. I clipped it onto their puppy corral right next to the litter box, and when I got up this morning I couldn't smell a thing except the bright, good-morning-clean scent of citrus. 

It's a MUST TRY! You seriously won't believe how well it works. AND at only $5 (ridiculous value!) I can't wait to find more places to tuck a million Scentportables — on the hamper, inside my BF's shoes (ew!), in the trunk of the car, in our bowling bags...the odor-zapping possibilities are endless!

{photo cred: bbw} 

EAU! It's a Mist-erpiece

Fragrance as art...can you say masterpiece at first mist?

{photo cred: lab partners SF}

Red, White & Beautiful!

Ok, so I'm a couple of days late...

BUT — there's nothing like the slow, glittering burn of a sparkler to keep the spirit of the 4th of July alive a little longer.

So, for those of us still hopped up on Americana, here are a few of my star-spangled faves.

1. Pin-Up Red Lips

Just vibrant enough to be retro glam, and just sheer enough to be summer fling flirty.

2. I HEART Sunglasses

Whoever said the Lolita look was out of style never saw these gems.

3. Eau So White

Ok, so, technically it's not white, but White Citrus is DEFINITELY the Signature scent for a white hot summer.

4. Treat Your Feet

It's time to break out the bubbly! This super-fizzy soak is the first step to sandal-worthy feet.

5. Peep (Toe) Show

After the pedi, slide these blue beauties on and just strut...seriously.

{photo cred: bbw, fred flare, mod cloth}

Hello Little Misses Everywhere!

Let me introduce myself — Little Miss Nose It All's the name...fragrance, bubble baths and all things ultra-pampering are my game. 

And, I've brought 2 of my favorite gals along for the ride — Little Miss Mommy and Little Mrs. Newlywed — both full of practical wisdom and beginner's luck in the world of new mommies and marital bliss. 

As partners in crime at Bath & Body Works, we spend our days in a wonderland of lotions and potions, and now we'll spend our nights telling the world about them — dishing the best kept secrets to keep you looking (and smelling) FAB every day!

So, welcome to funhouse...it's about to get pretty!

{photo cred: hellomonkey.etsy.com}