black is beautiful, a-peeling, reparing

Just as we change our wardrobes as the weather changes, so to should our skincare and haircare.  As you're exposed to the elements, especially sunny, sweaty environments, it's important to stay protected, hydrated, and fresh.  Here are a few things I'm loving that'll help put your best face forward:

Ouai Repair Shampoo

What it is:
A moisturizing shampoo that replenishes and nourishes for strong, healthy-looking hair.

What it is formulated to do:
This nourishing cleanser is infused with Ouai’s unique Smart Technology Complex™ to replenish moisture and fortidy breakage-prone strands. Hair is left looking shiny and feeling stronger.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is ideal for chemically and mechanically damaged hair, and also nice to keep in rotation if you're going to be out in the sun, swimming, sweating, or exposed to the elements.  Added bonus: it makes an incredible, rich lather and smells fabulous.

Ouai Repair Conditioner

What it is:
A mega-moisturizing hydrator that feeds damaged hair without adding weight.

What it is formulated to do:
This nourishing conditioner repairs damage from chemicals, color, and heat. A super-moisturizing hydrator, it is infused with Ouai’s unique Smart Technology Complex™ for nourished, healthy-looking hair.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is ideal for chemically and mechanically damaged hair.  If you apply any face masks or treatments, be sure to apply the conditioner first, massage well into the hair and scalp, and let sit for a few moments while you treat the face/body.  This makes for optimal efficacy and luxurious results.

boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser  

What it is:
A warming gel cleanser that deeply cleans and detoxifies the complexion.

What it is formulated to do:
This Black Cleanser heats up on contact with skin to effectively open and de-clog pores. Its gel texture transforms into a gentle and effective lather to dissolve oil and makeup, rinsing away pore-clogging surface debris, impurities, and excess oil. It refines skin texture, brightens skin clarity, and minimizes the look of pores over time.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel 

What it is:
A lightweight peeling gel that delivers gentle exfoliation for deeper, more thorough cleansing results.

What it is formulated to do:
Get the benefits of a peel—without the harsh side effects. This peel gel acts as a physical peel to remove the outer layer of dead skin, as a chemical peel to penetrate deep into skin for in-depth exfoliation, and as a treatment to firm and brighten for a healthy complexion. It’s triple-activated to get the best results with outer exfoliation and chemical exfoliation deep within pores while a brightening treatment can penetrate deep into skin. It bonds together so you instantly feel outer layer of skin being fully exfoliated. After rinsing, it lets skin appear smoother, softer, and brighter-looking after a single use.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This color-free product is free of preservatives, artificial fragrance, ethanol alcohol, gluten, and it is dermatologist tested.  Very important: apply this product to a dry face with dry hands.  If your face or hands are damp or wet, the product gets incredibly sticky and doesn't apply correctly.

boscia Luminizing Black Mask 

Which skin type is it good for?
✔ Normal
✔ Oily
✔ Combination

What it is:
A groundbreaking, mineral-rich mask that peels off to deliver powerful detoxifying, purifying, and brightening effects.

Solutions for:
- Enlarged pores
- Oiliness
- Dullness and uneven texture

If you want to know more…
This jet-black, mineral-rich mask creates a unique peel-off effect that delivers powerful detoxifying, purifying, and brightening results. Made with a premier-quality clay, its deep-cleansing properties draw out dirt and oil. Other natural ingredients go to work exfoliating skin and refining pores. Powerful antioxidants shrink the appearance of pores, firm skin, and reduce inflammation. Once dried, the mask strips away dead skin, impurities, and excess oil to reveal immediate and visible results.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is also free of artificial fragrance and color, gluten, and ethanol alcohol. It is dermatologist tested.

Research results:
After 4 weeks of use:
- 91% reported their skin felt softer
- 91% reported their skin felt less oily
- 82% reported their skin appeared brighter 

I tried all 5 of these products last night, and am really impressed.  I started with the peel, then in the shower used the cleanser, shampoo, luminizing mask, and conditioner.  Afterwards, I followed up with my everyday Skin Revitalizing Concentrate from Tom Ford and a sample of the super moisturizing and repairing Premier Cru The Cream from Caudalie.   What're you loving this summer?

a few faves

All of my favorite things in life start with the same letter: faith, family, fashion, food, friends, fun.  Everything revolves around these categories, and are always a priority in life.  They fuel me, bring encouragement and entertainment, keep me grounded and guided, and supported and safe. 

A few things I'm loving lately:

I absolutely love cooking.  Whether I'm in the kitchen, shopping for food, eating at a restaurant, gardening, or simply exploring new places, I can't stop thinking about cooking.  I love everything about cooking - especially the conversations in kitchens, the memories made, and the entire experience.  I've had the true pleasure of cooking with a myriad of fabulous people, and in a simple way, cook to honor those I love.

I'm really loving this new white collection from Staub.  It's made from enamel coated cast iron with layers of quartz, so you get incredible heat conductivity, durability, and super easy cleanup.  Not to mention, it's beyond beautiful, made in France, has a self-braising lid, is dishwasher safe, and can stand heat up to 500°F/260°C.  

For a limited time, save 20% on your Staub cookwear from Williams-Sonoma with promo code "COOK" - or for more detail, phone Summer at +1 (615) 292.5066.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to look good.  But if you are able to spend a little more - get the most out of your suiting by mixing it up a bit.  I love this casually chic look from Lanvin.  Mixing a cool t-shirt and designer kicks adds character and confidence to any suit, especially this incredible tuxedo.

Lustrous, pickstitched peak lapels front an elegant wool-and-mohair tuxedo jacket paired with crisply creased flat-front trousers to form a timeless, dashing look.

• Jacket has single-button closure; front flap pockets; besom chest pocket; side vents.
• Trousers have zip fly with button-tab closure; slant pockets; back welt pockets.
• Unhemmed. (And don't forget - when you buy any full-price suit at Nordstrom, basic alterations are always complimentary.)  
  
• Jacket is lined; trousers are partially lined.
• 90% wool, 10% mohair.
• Dry clean.
• Made in Italy

There's "little girl glitter" and then there's "big girl glam"...it's time to up your game for summer and try this incredible shimmering body oil from Tom Ford Beauty.  Soleil Blanc is the perfect blend of summer white florals with spicy, aromatic sandalwood and amber.  It's lightweight, provides a sultry, sun-kissed glow, and feels amazing.  Phone Tonya at Nashville Norstrom's Tom Ford shop for more details: +1 (615) 850.6700.

Spring has finally spring!  Thank the Lord!  And summer is soon on its way!  Nourish and protect your lips with this awesome lip balm from Farmacy.

What it is formulated to do:
This soothing herb-infused balm forms a protective barrier on the lips, leaving them smoother, softer, and fuller. The formula contains Echinacea GreenEnvy™, a unique, patent-protected variant of echinacea purpurea that contains the highest known concentration of cichoric acid, which helps protect the skin. Castor seed oil provides a plant-based protective film that helps preserve natural hydration levels. Sunflower seed oil helps maintain the skin’s barrier function with high levels of emollients derived from natural essential fatty acids. Super shout out to Nashville Sephora's Jessica who introduced me to this must-have summer secret.  

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product is formulated with naturally derived ingredients and is free of formaldehyde, and artificial coloring. It is not tested on animals.


No matter what your agenda or budget - find things you love.  Make the most of each day, find the beauty in each moment and person you interact with, and remember we're all in this together.

Give Gracious Gifts

In the northern hemisphere, summer time is sizzling. And the only thing hotter than the scorching sun are the countless summertime parties!

Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a feast for family and friend, or a glamourous gala, here are some tips to ensure stress-free success (and to snag an invitation to the next event!):

(in no particular order, of course)

-- check the weather and the venue before you leave. Summer showers and blistering heat can make for tricky fashion choices. Be sure to keep an umbrella in the car just in case. If you're in an area where it gets chilly at night, pack a wrap, a scarf, or lightweight cardigan. When the sun goes down, the party doesn't stop. Additionally, if you're going to a polo match (where the grass can be unstable) or the beach (where walking in sand can be tricky) - be sure to wear proper footwear.

-- remember to hydrate. If you're going to be outside (maybe at the soccer pitch or the baseball park), pack a cooler with ice and beverages. Hydration isn't just for your thirst - be sure to hydrate your skin with a great moisturizer (with a sun protection ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide).

-- show your host/hostess you appreciate their invitation and effort by bringing a small gift. I'm really loving the following:

Agraria Home's Lemon Verbena home diffuser. Brilliant and Brisk, this small vessel packs the essence and zest of a Provencal summer.

Steady Stick Wine Bottle Holder from Crate & Barrel. Perfect for picnics at the park or bronzing at the beach, this nifty twist of stainless steel holds your bottle of wine in the most modern manner.

L'Occitane en Provence's Ruban D'Orange soft skin scrub is absolutely amazing. Luscious and luxurious, this citrus treat gently removes dead skin cells, helps prolong your healthy glow, and keeps hands, feet, knees, and elbows specifically soft.

Egg Plant: Mint from Branch Home. Everything you need to grow your own mint, this gift is the perfect ingredient for Mojitos - Cuba's most refreshing summer cocktail.


-- Protect yourself. Burning your skin causes more than just temporary discomfort. It's ugly, awful, and can kill you. I hate to sound so harsh, but it's true. Pack a hat. Bring sunscreen (and choose a moisturizer or foundation with sunscreen, and for your lipgloss or lipstick). And wear giant sunglasses (because big sunglasses also protect the delicate skin around the eyes, as well as the eyes themselves).

-- Be safe. If you know you're going to be enjoying alcoholic beverages - arrive alive and plan an alternate transportation for home.