Glossier Phase 1 Set

When one of your favorite beauty-focused internet-reads announces a surprise project, you pay attention. That was definitely the case for me when Into the Gloss announced Glossier. I mean, ITG is basically my beauty bible at this point — can you blame me?

The Phase 1 Set includes four products and the cutest little sticker set. Never a letdown with these guys, huh.

The Soothing Face Mist is magical. Magical in the sense that it's exactly the kind of product I want to use to refresh my skin during the day and just the perfect base after cleansing and before makeup application. The rosewater makes spritzing this on feel just a teensy bit luxurious, and I'm totally okay with that.

I got the Perfecting Skin Tint in Medium and I have no regrets. It's a very close match to my skin currently and I figure winter rolls around I can grab the lighter shade and mix the two. I was unsure if I'd like this due to how light and watery it seemed on the back of my hand but alas, I was wrong. I love the application (especially with a stippling brush or fingers) and the finish is gorgeous. It's light but not too light and it looks SO natural. Not to mention how dewy it is. This stuff is on daily rotation.

Aside from the fact that it's called the Balm Dotcom, I have to say that this little tube is kind of the bomb. I wasn't sure how I was going to use this stuff at first but my boo Amy told me to use it on my lips and hey, I'm a convert. I've also been applying to my cuticles and ugh, it's amazing. Super moisturizing and hydrating; it lasts for so long, even on lips! This is one of those products that I just need to be carrying with me at all times (and I do).

I'm picky when it comes to moisturizers, you should know this. It's so hard for me to find something light enough for my liking that also provides my skin with some real hydration. PSA: I love Glossier's Priming Moisturizer. It's light, it feels fresh on the skin, it fully skins in and doesn't leave a weird layer of leftover product after application. My face feels more supple and soft and I'm hoping that with continuous use, I'll see a little less redness too.

So I guess basically what I'm saying is that Glossier knocked it out of the park. I can't wait to see what they do next. Hurry up, Phase 2. I'll try to be patient.

Week in Review · No 3

Place of Interest: Mast Brothers Chocolate, Williamsburg, BK

One of the places I think I'll miss the most, other than St. Balmain, is probably Mast Brothers Chocolate. Why? Post-brunch chocolate chip cookies. The end.

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Links: 

• I have to admit, I love seeing what kiddos eat all around the world. 
• Brunch Is for Jerks? I guess I'm a jerk. The point of view in this article is so aggressive and anti-millenial that I couldn't not laugh. It's brunch. Just let me enjoy my eggs benny and bottomless mimosas. I promise, I'm not hurting anyone. p.s. Jules, I forgive you.
• I wrote a piece on what it's like to be assaulted. 
• Currently sat on a plane en-route to NYC for what will hopefully be the last time. I'm packing up all my stuff and moving back west. #GIRLBOSS is my in-flight read of choice and I'm stoked. Anyone else read this? What's your take? 
• This tweet.
• There's a Henri Matisse exhibit happening at the MoMA in NYC until Feb 2015. Go! 
• Also, this fall foliage map is epic. Thankful I'll be in New York during one of the most gorgeous times of year.

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Music:

• Made in Heights is back — that should come as no surprise. They're easily becoming one of my favorite groups. This song is no exception.
• Sebastian Carter does some of my favorite remixes as of late. Can't stop listening to this one lately.
• Disco inspired everything, please and thank you. Girl, Forever by Satin Jackets is my god damn jam. I've found myself throwing this on repeat countless times the past few weeks. No regrets — this track is incredible. 
• Rolling by Jugu was a recommendation from a friend and yup, it made the list because it's exactly the kind of thing I've been into lately. A bit mysterious, semi-sensual vocals.
• I'm a big fan of bonobo so when I saw Flashlight pop-up in my Soundcloud stream, I was stoked. Never a letdown.
• Stay With Us by • Seoul • is one of those feel good songs. The kind of song I tend to listen to while getting ready. Atmospheric, light, ambient. Light some candles, watch the rain. This is good stuff. 
• Holy mother of Jon Hopkins. I feel like I'll never get over this song. I'm a fan of Jon Hopkins, don't get me wrong, but this track is out of this world. So beautiful. Just give it a listen. 

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That's all for this week's lil review. Tomorrow I'll be back posting more normal stuffs, yay!

moodboard: six

“Perhaps our eyes need to be washed by our tears once in a while, so that we can see life with a clearer view again.” 

I haven't done one of these in a while and sometimes it's good to just throw some stuff together and moodboard; it's so therapeutic. 

I'm moving back to San Francisco after a short stint in Baltimore and Brooklyn. I'm not going to deny my love for the east coast, namely New York, but I think I just got very used to California living. Plus like, palm trees and park hangs are the best (even if there is better avocado toast in NYC). 

I've been thinking a lot about what I want to do with the new space I have. My bedroom has a fireplace which is so sick — but also very dark. I want to keep the space a bit airy and light with the occasional moody accent. My wardrobe might be 75% black but I'm a sucker for neutrals and pink.

I already own some nice sheets but who can deny the greatness of linen? If money were no object (or rather, buyers remorse), I would throw this blanket right on top because look at it. It's literally perfect. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I've been whining about wanting this MUJI diffuser for ages. Guys, it's happening for reals. Gimme all your lavender. And for lounging around this perfect little space? Base Range. Amazing brand — comfiest underthings ever. This bra in blush is a dream.

Other little things are some homewares and this Bad Bitch necklace from In God We Trust because this week has definitely made me feel like one. 

/ quote by Alex Tan

/ art by Tommy Bruce