4 Ways to Pamper Yourself in Charleston

I post a lot about my travels to other cities how great it is to travel, but sometimes it’s necessary to brag on your own home base. Charleston has my whole heart and i’m finding new and exciting things to do here almost every single day.

When I come home from traveling, I’m always ready for some Holy City R&R. The best way to do that, in my opinion, is by doing something calming for myself (and by myself). Here are my top five picks for beauty-based self care in Charleston, SC:

1. DryBar (Hair)

   Oh, DryBar. I can almost smell the mixture of candle-scented air and signature hair products now. Here, you can get your hair washed and blown out for $45 (with a glass of bubbly) and come out feeling brand new. They use only their own line of products and everything smells like heaven. Try the Floater, an extra and completely necessary scalp massage to renew your noggin.

2. Allure Nails

As a busy gal, I don’t have time to spend hours getting a pedi and gel manicure. It can be tedious to sit & wait with foil-wrapped fingers as your polish soaks off, only to wait even longer for your nail tech to actually get the job done. At Allure, this is far from the case. Conveniently located next to the Whole Foods in West Ashley (for the perfect post-nails lunch) Allure is clean, quick, & chic. The extremely kind & efficient staff works hard to get you in & out so you can get on with your life. They’ll put you up in a comfy pedicure chair and, most of the time, two nail techs will be working on your nails at once. You’ll feel pampered & fresh without losing an entire afternoon. Sip on a free mimosa & watch one of the many TVs with content ranging from CBS to The Kardashians.

3. The Woodhouse Day Spa

Speaking of an efficient beauty routine, The Woodhouse has got you covered. It’s located just across the bridge from Downtown in Mount Pleasant. The best part? Each of the Woodhouse services is thoughtfully priced, so it won’t break the bank if you’re in need of a massage/facial combo. The relaxation room is a place of cozy serenity where you can read a fashion mag & sip on some herbal tea or a glass of prosecco, in case you’re sensing a theme here with the bubbles. This place is great for a Saturday well spent or a post-work treat.

4. Charleston Glow (Tanning)

Feeling a little less than bronzed after Summer? Charleston Glow has got you covered. This place is my go-to for any Fall/Winter event. It’s a cute little place tucked away in the Belle Hall shopping center, conveniently located across from one of my favorite boutiques, II Brunettes. The staff is always sweet & I LOVE how my tan looks afterwards. I’m a generally fair person, so the light option is my jam. Get the Blushtan and thank me later.

Get out there & get pampered, y’all!

XX,

C&C

Best of Beauty 2016

Even though i'm finally getting comfortable writing the date as '17, some things have stuck with me from 2016.  I'm rounding up all the makeup, skincare, & hair products I couldn't live without last year.  Here's to many more knockout products in 2017!

1. NYX HD Finishing Powder

Weightless, Colorless, Flawless! This powder is brightening, yet mattifying for the perfect everyday makeup look. (Also available in yellow for brightening the ender eye area!) Ulta, $9

2. L'Oreal Infallible Foundations

Usually i'm down to splurge on a foundation or BB Cream, but this one gives you the best of both for around $12! Use the matte finish for a long-lasting, full coverage look, or the glow finish for a natural, everyday face! Best applied with a damp BeautyBlender. 

3. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks 

I spent most of 2016 wearing one of these & trying to get my friends to buy them! These long-lasting colors range from everyday nudes to bold blues, reds and purples.  Easy application & super lightweight feel.  ($20, Sephora)

4. Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick in Kim K.W.

Yep, i'm devoting an entire heading to one shade of lipstick, & for good reason! You've just met the everyday lipstick of all everyday lipsticks.  All i'm saying is this little thing lives in my purse for a reason.  It's hydrating, full coverage, & works with many skin tones.  ($32, Bloomingdales)

5. Milani Blush in Luminoso

The best way to avoid clown cheeks.  This versatile color mimics a romantic, natural flush.  A cult fav. ($6, Drugstores)

6. Laura Mercier Lip Balm 

Who am I kidding? I've loved this stuff for longer than a year. Shoutout to my mom for introducing me to this one! What started out as part of my dance theatre makeup kit has become a day to night favorite.  Whether you're looking for a daytime balm with a touch of color, or a before bed staple, this one's got you covered.  ($22, Sephora)

7. Clinique Take the Day Off Balm 

This cut my nightly routine in half! Just apply a small amount to your face full of makeup, massage with water, & rinse.  The balm melts makeup (Even stubborn mascara & long lasting lipstick) and lifts it gently to remove all remnants of makeup from pores.  Follow up with a facial cleanser & moisturizer! ($29, Sephora)

8. Bumble & Bumble Dryspun Finish Spray

Pros: Weightless, super thickening for all hair types, refreshing, smells amazing

Cons:

($31, Sephora)

9. Drybar Mai Tai Spritzer Sea Salt Spray

Use this for the perfect tousled look, sans heat.  Always natural, never crunchy or greasy! 

($25, Sephora)

10.  MAC Fix+ 

Prime, hydrate, lock-in, & set with one little spray bottle! I use this after applying foundation, then again after my entire makeup look is finished.  Also great for refreshing makeup throughout the day.  ($23, department stores)

XX,

C&C

Top 5: Fall Skincare Must-Haves

^me, pre-fall, pre-haircut. Photographed by my sister in SoHo.

Happy FALL

(!!!)

I realized this season had officially begun only last night after stepping outside in a too-thin shirt & open toe sandals.  Was it 58 degrees? Yes.   Was it also raining? Maybe.  Did I have the slightest intelligence or at least obligatory thought to check my Weather App? Instead of answering that I'm going to ask another question: do you often feel unprepared for the colder months, or "caught in the rain" if you will? (See what I did there?) Okay i'll stop, but seriously.

Winter Skin is not cute.  If you don't know what I mean by this term, odds are you've experienced it at some point in your life, unless you hail from some perpetually warm place close to the equator.  Winter Skin can best be described as dehydrated, wind-chilled, & agitated.  It causes unwanted flaking, texture, redness, & frowning (again. not cute.) But take heart, this can be prevented! It's important to incorporate these into your skincare routine now, as the weather is just changing.  

Here are my top 5 skincare products to keep your skin looking fab during the colder months!

1. Water

Sorry if you're already unimpressed, BUT this one is seriously important, so stop rolling your eyes.  Of course drinking tons of water is so important all the time, but during the winter months, water can be useful in many different ways.  A humidifier adds warm, wet air to a dry place, so it's perfect to place one near your bed at night to help fight off cold & flu grossness.  It helps keep vocal cords from becoming too dry, & it's great for the skin! 

2. Gentle Exfoliant

Notice I used the word gentle. When it's cold, your skin already has a lot going on with wind, cold temps, etc. Don't upset it even more.  I love my Clarasonic deep pore cleanser because even though it mostly just gets dirt & makeup off my face, it also leaves my skin feeling soft & smooth.  The Neutrogena Naturals Pore Cleansing Scrub is also great because the scrubbies (is there a better word for this?) are finely milled & very gentle.  

3. Heavy Moisturizer

Your summer moisturizer just isn't going to cut it.  In the summer, I like to use a moisturizer with a high SPF & a lighter feel.  In the winter, I go for the opposite.  It's great to reach for one that's very gentle but won't irritate the skin, even after being applied 2-3 times a day.  My favorite is the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.  It is made to be used all over the body, so in the winter, I use it on my face because it creates a "skin barrier" while still feeling light, even on sensitive skin.  The main ingredient is Glycerin, which acts like a protective mask underneath makeup.  

4. Facial Spray

Sometimes, even with all the preparation & moisturizing, your skin just needs a little more.  Facial sprays are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.  Choose one with vitamins & nourishing ingredients to revive your skin.  I will never stop talking about the Caudalie Beauty Elixir so of course, I will mention this one as my holy grail facial spray.  Other notable spritzers: Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater & First Aid Beauty Vitamin Hydrating Mist

5. Restorative Mask

The cold can take a lot out of your skin, so it's  very important to put nourishing goodies back in. While moisturizers do a great job of protecting, sometimes they fall short after a few hours.  Overnight masks can make a world of difference, like this one from Sephora.  For a short 20 minute mask, I recommend using any of the Glam Glow products, but ESPECIALLY the Thirsty Mud Treatment .  It works quickly & smells like the tropical vacation you hallucinate in mid-January.  

XX, 

C&C

Dress To Kill Code

Happy Thursday! 

As the weekend approaches, I've begun to envision my outfits for Friday/Saturday night fun.  This NYC heat wave, although thankfully dying down, has left little room for anything other than shorts, tanks, & portable fans.  I'm itching to create an ensemble hotter than the temperature gauge outside, which got me thinking: What makes a great outfit?

Breaking it down, here are my top 5 guidelines for making a killer look.  I hesitate to call them rules because to me, fashion has none! 

1. Monochromatic is always an option

You knew this one was coming.  I am the reigning queen of black-on-black and I have no intention of changing.  However, blacking out isn't the only way to rock this look.  I love an all white outfit for the summer (or winter whites!) 

Head to toe denim can be tricky, but it's another classic, all-American trend I have grown to love.  Do it right and you won't end up looking like a 90's teen or a rodeo attendee. Try pairing like colored denim pieces together, like light wash skinny jeans and a chambray button down.  Another classic look I love is dark wash jeans with a bleached denim jacket. so easy!

2. Choose a focal point

& by that I mean NOT your feet.  The most common examples are sparkly or drop earrings.  They draw attention to the face.  Another great way to center & balance your look is to set your outfit around a statement necklace.  Printed blouses or fun pants create a more vibrant look, just be mindful and keep that balance going on.  Think of it like makeup... long lashes bring attention to the eyes, & a bold lip draws the eye to the mouth and away from any other imperfections on the face.  

3. Make or break it with hair & makeup

Speaking of makeup, it's a part of your outfit, too.  Be mindful of your outfit choice when glamming up & choose a color palette either neutral or complimentary to the colors of your chosen clothing.  The same translates to hair.  A french twist & sweatpants is comparable to orange juice & toothpaste.  Boyfriend jeans & T-shirt? Beach waves and sea salt spray. you get the idea. 

4. Accessorize with caution

But not too much.  Accessorizing is a chance to show your personality.  Find the perfect bag and carry it until it's worn out.  Stack bracelets to the high heavens.  Go for a look YOU love, but don't put a bunch of jewelry together just because you love all of it.  Smaller earrings leave more space for a bolder necklace.  Hoops and a thin choker make for a balanced and proportionate look.  Bonus points for mixing metals and hues. 

5. Feelin' good=lookin' good

& don't you forget it.  Don't get me wrong, I've spent countless hours scouring magazines & style blogs to find the trendiest looks out there.  What I love even more, however, is creating a look that is totally original to my personality.

 Fashion is art. Wear something that makes you feel artistic, not what you think will gain approval or attention from others.  My point is, dress for you.  Feel confident & beautiful & make statements.  

XX, 

C&C

Perfect Ten: Drugstore Beauty Must-Haves

Happy Friday! 

Wanna know my favorite thing about getting up in the morning? My beauty routine, of course! I believe it's very important to thoughtfully create a beauty & makeup routine that works realistically with your skin type, schedule, & budget.  In terms of the latter, I think high-end skincare & makeup lines are great, but there are always more economical ways to build an amazing skincare & makeup kit.  You can find everything you need right around the corner at the drugstore! 

I used to think drugstore makeup brands were all low-quality & unreliable, & while some of them can be, I have found that most drugstore brands have kicked it up a notch in the past few years in order to keep up with more expensive brands.  The important thing here is to know which brands to look for, as well as which to stay away from.  That's where I come in! Drugstore makeup is a slight addiction for me because I can experiment with new colors and products without breaking the bank.  A few brands I really love include NYX, Jordana, Wet 'N' Wild, Maybelline, Milani, and The Balm.  Other brands have great products too, but I have found the aforementioned to be the most consistent. 

Below I will share (in no particular order) my top ten skincare and makeup products from drugstore brands. Enjoy!

Eye Makeup

Jordana Best Lash Extreme Mascara ($4)

The perfect all-in-one mascara! I just recently found this gem & I truly love it.  This long-lasting formula extends lashes while giving a naturally plump look.  It can also be layered with 2-3 coats for a more dramatic look. 

L'Oreal Telescopic Mascara ($10)

I can't believe it, but I've been using this mascara for over six years! There is simply nothing like it.  This formula stretches your lashes to the high heavens for a wide-eyed, thin lash look.  Tip: the formula takes a few seconds to dry, so apply one coat, then gently fan with your hand before applying a second coat.  It reduces clumping! 

NYX Eyeshadow Base ($10)

Ever feel like your eyeshadow disappears after a few hours of wear? Say goodbye to fading & fallout with this eye primer! Available in different shades for a natural look that matches your skin tone.  On minimal makeup days when I skip foundation, I also use this as a natural-looking concealer to cover any dark circles or imperfections! Can be applied with a small flat brush or your finger. 

Wet 'N' Wild Comfort Zone Eyeshadow Palette ($6)

These highly pigmented shades are perfect for any eye color! The formula is silky smooth with a subtle shimmer.  The light, basic shades create an understated eye look, while the deeper tones can be layered on for a nighttime switch! My favorite eye palette from W&W!

Face Makeup

Maybelline FitMe Foundation ($8) and Concealer ($7)

These are perfect for a full-coverage look! The formula comes in Matte OR Dewy, depending on the look you desire.  These last on my face all day, just like a high-end foundation.  The concealer is very thin when used, but blends out perfectly with a damp Beauty Blender or sponge.  

L'Oreal Infallable Pro-Matte 24HR Foundation ($12)

If you're looking for a truly flawless look, this one is a must! This foundation is lightweight and breathable, but SUPER long-lasting.  It can withstand water, heat, and sweat! A true gem from the makeup gods. 

NYX Honey Dew Me Up Serum ($24)

$24 for a NYX product??? Trust me on this one, this will change your life...or at least your skin.  Since I started using this a few months ago, I have noticed that my skin is much more soft, bright, even-toned, & healthy-looking! Just dot the applicator a few times onto your face and massage into the skin.  Wait for it to dry before you continue with your makeup regimen! 

The Balm Cosmetics: Mary-Lou Manizer ($23)

I'm relatively new to The Balm, but I had to try this cult favorite highlighter...& I'm so glad I did! The formula is highly pigmented & very finely milled, which creates a subtle sheen with one layer of product.  Upon layering, the product becomes even more shimmery and bright, but never glittery! You might need sunglasses for this one.  

Lip Products

Milani Matte Lipsticks ($9 Each)

Finally, my favorite section! As a girl whose lipstick shade changes by the day, it's important to find an affordable line of great lipstick. The Milani lips are unfortunately underrated, but I think they yield great color while keeping lips hydrated.  The line includes many neutrals as well as fun corals, reds, and plums! 

Maybelline Color Sensational Lipsticks ($8 Each)

This line is GREAT and offers multiple finishes, from creamy and shiny to matte.  The Creamy Mattes and Buff Nudes are my top two, each with about 8 shades.  These can be used alone or layered over lipliner for more intense color! Bonus: they smell like fresh baked sugar cookies:)

That wraps it up for my drugstore favs! I hope this encourages you to try a new, bold look or just add an affordable addition to your everyday routine! 

XX, 

C&C

C&C Beauty: Latest Sephora Haul

I'm currently sitting on my bed, my head adorned with two Miley-inspired buns, reflecting on my week in terms of the decisions I have made thus far.  

Leaving the house 20 minutes late at peak rush hour craziness, hoping to still make it on time just so I can finish an episode of Orange is the New Black? Not my greatest idea.

A smarter choice was my impromptu trip to Sephora, where I swear I only went in for one thing and, of course, left with five.  However, it was the extra few dollars spent that bumped my rewards account up to Sephora V.I.B status! (In case you're wondering, you get a shiny silver card to flaunt, a free in-store makeover, free shipping on an online purchase, and a discount on your next in-store purchase. whew!)

In celebration of my new borderline dedicated customer/makeup addict status, I thought it appropriate to share some of my recent Sephora purchases, complete with a 'no BS' review, rating, and ways to use the product. Enjoy!

1. Mai Tai Spritzer Sea Salt Spray by Drybar

• Size: 3.4 fl oz. 

• Smell: sweet and coconut-y

• Price: $23

• Review: Honestly, I read many a bad review about this product online, but I ended up buying it anyway because I have so many Drybar products I can't live without (Mr. Incredible leave-in conditioner and Triple Sec styling spray, to name a couple.) I was pleasantly surprised when the spray not only smelled fantastic, but also gave my hair effortless waves with no heat whatsoever.  Doesn't leave my hair stringy or crunchy. Doesn't make my hair feel greasy. 

• Rating: 8/10

2. Anastasia Beverly Hills Eyebrow Pencils

• Sizes: Anastasia Brow Wiz (.003 oz) and Anastasia Brow Definer (.007 oz)

• Smell: crayon-y

• Price: $20-23

• Review: Your brows have not lived up to their full potential until they have experienced Anastasia Beverly Hills products.  This should come as no shock to the average beauty junkie, but if you're new to the brow game, this brand is a must-have! The Brow Definer and pomade serve as an intensely-pigmented base, while the Brow Wiz emulates small, hairlike marks with each stroke. Very easy to use.  Very high-brow, if you will. 8/10

3. Caudalie Beauty Elixer Spray 

• Size: Ranges from 1oz.-3.4oz. 

• Smell: Herb-y, floral, light

• Price: $13-40

• Review: One of my all-time favorites.  I have a large bottle on my vanity and a travel size bottle in my bag at all times.  The perfect pre-moisturizing toner, midday makeup pick me up, or post-gym refresher.  This facial spray tightens pores, plumps and adds radiance all in one spritz! 10/10!

4. Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in Studded

• Size: .11oz. 

• Smell: no fragrance 

• Price: $17 each

• Review: I've been itching to try one of the new Vice shades since their release date was announced.  Being the adventurous makeup geek that I am, I decided to go for a wildcard shade. Studded is a metallic gunmetal silver with taupe undertones.  Surprisingly, the shade turned out to be pleasantly subtle.  It's not glittery, but rather contains a very finely-milled shimmer.  Very flattering. An edgy shade to add to your collection! 7/10

5. St. Tropez In Shower Gradual Tan

• Size: 6.7oz. 

• Smell: Manly, musky

• Price: $25

• Review: Recommended by a Sephora employee with an impeccable glow. While it's very easy to use (apply to wet, post-shower skin, wait 3 minutes, rinse) the results are VERY gradual.  Within 5 days I started seeing visible color-change.  It was worth the wait! There is absolutely no orange hue or 'tanning lotion' smell.  6/10 

Go forth and experiment! 

XX, 

C&C

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