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the essential white women’s suit

Published by dayinmydreams

So post-Covid has been a bit of a drag, it’s a new year, and we’re ready to start the New Year fresh. Shed the loungewear and discard your fuzzy socks. The year of Covid has past, and while we’re still not back to life as we knew it, life is still flourishing. We made it through, and it’s time take the big step into the new year with pride.

Say hello to the power suit of the New Year.

photography:ME | camera:CANNON 5D MARK III | white suit c/o:ANNE FONTAINE

Women’s suiting and co-ords are not only one of the biggest luxury fashion trends of the season, it’s a timeless ensemble that makes a lasting impression. The posture, the tailored silhouettes, the crisp fabrics and commanding aesthetics – it’s no wonder suiting never really goes out of style.

If you’re looking to empower your wardrobe for the new year, this is where you’ll want to start. Introducing the Lido blazer and Preston suit pants – a statement selection from Anne Fontaine’s FW collection. This white suit set is a timeless combo with contemporary detailing that makes it a quintessential staple for the modern woman.

What you’re going to love – this lines of this stunning winter white suit elegantly follow the lines of your silhouette, giving it a comfortable, flattering fit.

Note the breast pleating on the Lido blazer. The jacket design gives the suit a sleek structure that contours to your body’s form. The buttons at the front and sleeve also compliment the blazer’s geometrical design.

Both the pant and blazer are crafted with a textured off-white crepe that drapes elegantly from the body in a lose, comfortable fit. Part of Anne Fontaine’s Essentials Collection, it’s no wonder this suit makes the cut for this year’s most coveted items of the season.

The Preston pants have an oversized fit, following the height of women’s suit trends.

Iconic features include the piped pockets and high waisted fit that accentuate the flattering wide-leg silhouette. Soft pleating down the front of the legs elongates the look, giving you legs for days.

No white after Labor Day is a rule long meant to be broken. What better way than a statement power suit to stride into the New Year? Style this season’s essential white suit with luxury accessories for a truly unstoppable ensemble.

This is your year, and the perfect power suit is just the way to start the New Year with energized confidence.

Get the look by pairing Anne Fontaine’s white suit with a statement luxury handbag like The Pouch by Bottega Veneta. Layer on statement gold chain jewelry to keep the look young and fresh. You can shop these 14-24K gold plated rings, necklaces and bracelet from my curated collection of luxury essentials on Shop Day in my Dreams.

Can’t get enough of Anne Fontaine? Yeah, me too. Their FW collection is a Mecca of modern luxury essentials with a Parisian twist. This year, I’ve collaborated with Anne Fontaine to curate a really special collection of handpicked items essential for the new year. Shop all my favorite ways to style Anne Fontaine for winter and beyond in our Styles with Staying Power edit, available now on the Anne Fontaine website!

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, these items were gifted by Anne Fontaine. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

connected but not consumed | Palm mini smartphone review

Published by dayinmydreams

Looking to cut the access and get back to the essentials for 2021? Introducing the latest innovation in smartphones – Palm smartphones are changing the way we incorporate technology into our daily lives – for the better. Smartphones have been getting bigger and bigger as the years pass, and a big question on my mind is always “why?”

After all, with most innovation isn’t technology supposed to get more compact?

photography:ME | camera:CANNON 5D MARK III | palm smartphone:PALM

Palm reached out to me just about a year back, offering me a free devise to try out. I was intrigued by the sizes (and frankly also the cuteness) of what appeared to be a miniature, doll-size smartphone, I had no choice but to accept. The result, here are some of the facts and featured I discovered during my Palm smartphone review.

What’s cool about the technology, Palm smartphones are a mini smartphone that works independently, or as a supplement to your existing cellular device. That means you can use it to replace your existing bulky smartphone, or you can sync it to your existing device (much like a smartwatch) and use it to supplement your phone usage.

The most exciting part, Palm phones are just about the size of a credit card (see above center next to an iPhoneX). Yet, they still offer all of the most used features of a smartphone including a high-res camera, app support, calls, texting, you name it. Don’t believe me? Here’s the Palm review features breakdown:

IMAGE CRED: Palm

Palm Smartphone Features

Phone plan connection for calls and texts
Built in GPS
Music LTE and Wi-Fi streaming
8-12MP front and rear cameras with back flash
Water and dust resistant
Pre-loaded with the standard android apps
3.3” HD display (just about the size of a credit card)

We’ve forgotten so many aspects of cell phones that used to make our lives easier. Small, lightweight, and available to handle life’s digital connections. What if you could still have all of that, but in a much smaller, sleeker package.

I would consider myself the average phone user. I use it to check my email, take photos, send texts, listen to music, navigation, grocery lists and as a mode of communication for emergencies.

What I don’t use… pretty much everything else. I currently operate an iPhoneX, purchased shortly after its release. Don’t get me wrong, I love my phone. But there are times it’s just not designed to suit all of life’s scenarios.

Where do I keep it when I go for a run or hike? What pocket am I supposed to fit it into at the gym? When I walk the dog, do I really need to take my cell with me? Going out for cocktails, the darn thing doesn’t fit in my bag, or looks bulky in a pocket. There are so many occasions I’d rather have a little less, while still staying connected. Palm smartphones are the ideal mode of connection for people with an active lifestyle.

The Palm mini smartphone has all of the technology I need, in a much, much smaller package.

It’s easy to slip in a pocket or even wear on your arm. Palm offers accessories that increase the functionality of their smartphone with lanyards and arm bands that help you take the palm anywhere you want to go. It’s great for those times when you just don’t need to bring a bulky phone with you, but you still want to stay connected.

For my tech geeks out there, here are a few specs from Palm you might be interested in.

Palm Smartphone Technical Features

OS: Android 8.1 system
Qualcomm® 435 processor, Octa-core CPU
3.3” HD Display with 445 psi high pixel density LCD
Impact resistant Gorilla glass
3 GB of RAM with 32 GB of storage
Dual speaker
Face unlock
Weighs just 62.5 grams
Measures 50.6 x 96.6 x 7.4 mm
Available in titanium and gold

What that means for me a year later? I’m able to walk Naizak and live in the moment with my new Palm! Truly exited about this collaboration, and feel honored to be included in some of the first users and advocates of Palm. As soon as I heard about these mini smart phones that can work as a secondary phone with your existing number, I was all onboard. There are so many situations in my ultra-mobile life on go that I need some connectivity basics like texts, time and music, but larger devices just aren’t practical.

Now when I take Naizak for a walk, I can listen to music, send and receive texts without a heavy phone in hand or pocket. It is so light, I hardly notice its there. The camera is 12MP, which is also plenty to get a couple cute shots of the pup on our adventures.

It’s perfect for the gym. My phone is pretty bulky, but this little guy fits in my gym pants pockets, and they also have a mini armband available. This thing is tiny. I mean TINY. It’s just over 3” long. It’s sweat resistant, plus it’s syncing to my own phone so I can still get texts to plan dinner after my workout.

You guys all know I’m a huge advocate of getting unplugged. Palm is also taking steps to help you do that. In Life Mode, the Palm helps me focus by silencing calls and notifications any time the screen is off. When you wake the screen, you’re connected again. This is great for times when I’m focusing on writing for my blog, or even just trying to stay in the moment with friends and family.

A small perk for you fashion fiends, this little guy does fit into your micro bags. (Mic drop). You’re welcome. They actually make a mini Kate Spade wristlet case for it as well.

Definitely worth the investment. When you consider how much we use our phone, it’s about time someone came up with a smaller, mini version that can go everywhere, for times when you don’t need anything but the basics.

If you guys are looking for a small way to unplug or lighten your load, definitely check out the super compact Palm smartphone. This is a small team of entrepreneurs truly innovating technology in our era. They’re creative, enthusiastic, and changing the way we can all connect, while staying connected to the world around us.

If you’ve been thinking about giving it a try, I hope you found this Palm review helpful. Do feel free to reach out with any questions or comments and I’m happy to share more of my experience. Palm also makes a great gift idea! Check out my 2020 luxury gift guide for tons of ideas on innovative brands to check off your holiday list.

#palmpartner #palmcrew #lifemode

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, this Palm review is in collaboration with Palm. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

minimal style capsule wardrobe essentials

items from my wardrobe I always re-wear over and over

Published by dayinmydreams

The absolute chaos, hangers pressed so tightly together you could get blisters from pulling them apart – we all know what it feels like to have too many pieces crammed in our wardrobe. And, as much as we like the idea of a truly minimalist wardrobe, sometimes it’s not as easy as it sounds.

If you’re trying to create some extra space, I’ve shared a few of my hacks for minimizing to a capsule wardrobe. But one of the most important factors we often overlook, is:

Don’t purchase items you’ll rarely wear in the first place.

Let’s be honest. Most of us only wear our favorite 20 or so items, and the rest of our clothes sits untouched month after month… sometimes longer. What if you only purchased those reworn items?

With dozens of pieces arriving every month for features on Day in my Dreams fashion blog, I’ve had the opportunity to wear new outfits just about every day.

But amidst the piles of trendy fast fashion pieces, there are a few items I find myself grabbing on as much as a weekly basis.

If you’re looking for quality minimal style basics that you’ll actually wear, here are some essential items from my wardrobe that you’ll keep wearing week after week.

IMAGE CRED: anne fontaine

A basic, luxury quality white blouse

I have an entire Pinterest board dedicated to outfits with basic white button down shirts. Point being, the possibilities are truly endless. Depending on the blouse, you can wear them as a dress, a layer under sweaters, with your loungewear, jeans, blazers, even swimwear covers. Trust me on this one. This minimal style staple is worth investing in. My most worn piece is a simple white blouse by Anne Fontaine. I’ve probably worn it no short of 200X, and I’m not slowing down. If you don’t already have one, consider investing in a luxury quality white blouse that will polish and elevate the many looks you’ll be able to pair it with.

IMAGE CRED: the real real

Black wide leg jeans

On the hunt for the perfect pair of black jeans, I stubbled upon this mid-rise crop pair by IRO on The Real Real. Zero regrets. Though I made the purchase just a few weeks back, I’ve already worn the pair a half dozen times. Wide leg jeans have a bit more fashion-forward look, so they’re an easy way to be in Vogue while still being in your comfortable basics.

IMAGE CRED: Allsaints

Allsaints leather biker jacket

There are no words to describe the relationship I have with my Allsaints Balfern leather biker jacket. I’ve had it for literally years. It’s in excellent shape, and it’s been my go-to outerwear layer since I received it as a gift from the brand. A leather jacket can be both edgy and sophisticated, so the versatility is unmatched, plus they never go out of style You can layer it over summer dresses or shorts to extend the season. I’d say I probably wear mine about 80% of days between 50-70ºF. Again, opt for quality. A cheap PU jacket from H&M might seem like a good solution, but the material will cheapen your outfits rather than accentuate them. Plus, it will inevitably rip when you least expect it. Buy it nice, or buy it twice. The hundreds of times you’ll wear it will make the investment well worth it.

IMAGE CRED: shopbop

Designer graphic tee

Ok, so not everyone is going to want to splurge on a $300-$500 luxury teeshirt. However, I purchased the Givenchy angry monkey tee, and there have been zero regrets. A graphic tee is an essential. If you truly aspire to have a minimal wardrobe, invest in one or two that you can rotate, rather than a drawer full of them you’ll never wear.

IMAGE CRED: theory

Decjuba overzied sweater

An oversized knit is a fall and winter essential. Again, think versatility. A grey knit stands great on its own, but it can also layer over your basic white blouse, over dresses, under blazers or with loungewear. I’ve even worn mine as a beach cover during off-season beach trips. My fav is a super soft knit from Decjuba that I received about a year back, and is still fashionably relevant today.

IMAGE CRED: amazon

Comfort Colors men’s pullover from Amazon

Last but not least, I have been on the hunt for a quarter-zip pullover since early fall. After trying many (and returning many disappointed), I stumbled on this total steal from Amazon just around $20. It has that perfect worn-in feel I had been looking for, and it’s perfect for days you don’t want to get dressed. Wear an oversized pullover with leggings, denim, or biker shorts for a trendy 2020 athleisure look that won’t die with the fast fashion.

What are the most worn items in your wardrobe? Share your secrets, and maybe someday we’ll all be able to shop smarter and maintain a minimal style capsule wardrobe.

luxury gift guide for every woman on your list

Published by dayinmydreams

Holiday sales are approaching. As such, holiday shopping is on many a mind. Seeing the faces of friends and family light up is truly the greatest gift of all. The challenge, finding something truly special and unique to get for everyone on your list. Whether you’re shortlisting your Black Friday hit list or looking for some gifting inspiration, this luxury gift guide is a step in the right direction.

Discover new and known luxury brands that I’ve personally experienced and recommend for people looking for gift ideas.

Working with hundreds of brands year over year, these are the cream of the crop along with some new discoveries. They’re not just sponsored brands. They’re companies I personally believe in, and products I’ve found to be beautiful, unique, and special enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Without further adieu, here are my top recommendations for unique luxury gift ideas.

For the modern sophisticate: Anne Fontaine essential white blouse

If you’ve followed Day in my Dreams for any notable period of time, you’ve heard me rave about Anne Fontaine. That’s because in my opinion, they’re the #1 destination for the essential white blouse. Trust me on this one… I have a wardrobe FULL of luxury fashion pieces. Anne Fontaine blouses are pieces I continue to wear season after season. They’re high quality, wash easily, and last season after season. If you’re shopping for someone who appreciates luxury fashion, an Anne Fontaine white blouse is the perfect gift either to bolster a substantial luxury wardrobe, or as a special essential item for someone just getting started on their luxury basics. Looking for something more unique? Their fall and winter collection also includes statement holiday wear, suiting and more.

For every woman on your list: 14K-24K gold plated jewelry from Day in my Dreams

Ok, obviously I can’t write a gift guide without a shoutout to my pride and joy… Shop Day in my Dreams. A passion project that started over a year ago, Shop Day in my Dreams has a collection of minimal style 14K-24K gold plated jewelry that I personally curated myself. Each piece has been personally tried and tested, from the sea, to showers, to hands in batter and so much more. These pieces are the high quality gold jewelry that I live in everyday and last. The designs range from modern statement pieces to luxury essentials as simple as a gold band. I’m truly confident they’ll be the new favorite of every woman on your list, because they’ve been mine, and so many other women who I’ve already gifted them to since the site launched. Please do support small businesses and check out this truly awesome range.

For the tech savvy girl boss on the go: Palm mini smart phone

Apple watches are so last year. You may remember my first introduction to the Palm mini smart phone about a year back. In case you missed it, Palm is an exciting startup company innovating mobile technology accessories. Palm is basically replacing mobile accessories (like the Apple Watch) offering two digital cameras, app support, Google assistant and a stunning HD display on a small flatscreen about the size of a credit card.

Palm can be used as a standalone smartphone, or it can sync with your existing smartphone.

So you can take a break from your big phone and cut back to the essentials when that’s all you really need. Take it to the gym for music and texting, to the store for your grocery list and quick calls, for hikes and adventures where your big phone just weighs you down. The possibilities are endless, and this is a truly innovative gift for anyone on your list who’s savvy with technology.

For the woman who deserves the best: Stefano Navi diamond stud earrings

What says true love and luxury like diamonds? Stefano Navi specializes in glittering occasion diamond jewelry. Even better, their focus is centralized around conflict-free, sustainable, lab-created diamonds. Lab diamonds have the most bright clarity, while supporting an equally bright future through an ethical diamond culture. Indistinguishable from raw mined diamonds, you can rest assured your gift didn’t come at the cost of someone’s well being. Conflict-free diamond stud earrings are the perfect way to say “I love you” from a place of true purity.

For the woman who likes gifts to keep on giving: Bootay Bag monthly subscription

Here’s something fun, new panties every month. Who doesn’t like to freshen up their panty drawer? If you have someone on your list that would love to get a little gift in the mail every month for the next 6-12 months, Bootay Bag is a super fun subscription gifting panties in the mail. For just $13 a month for 2 panties, it’s also a steal! I’ve received a couple trial packages of Bootay Bag goodies and honestly, the panties blow Victoria’s Secret out of the water.

For someone who likes to enjoy luxury from home: Replica luxury candles

There’s something inside of us all that relaxes just a bit more under the flicker of candle light. For someone on your list that enjoys taking some some time for themselves (or desperately needs it), give the gift of relaxation with Replica’s newest release of luxury candles. I confess I own the entire collection of Maison Margiela’s fragrance line of Replica perfumes. I’ve even enjoyed a couple of their candles in the past. This season, I was literally thrilled to receive two new additions as a gift. Hey, I’m not the easiest person to buy for, so yeah… these are good. The two new Replica candle scents: Whispers in the Library and Springtime in a Park. (Yes, I have both of those scents in the perfume as well). Whispers in the Library has a deep, earthy musky smell that’s not too heavy. It’s by far my favorite scent of all time. Springtime in a Park is light and refreshing, perfect for creating an upbeat atmosphere that’s also welcoming and sweet.

For someone who likes personalization: oNecklace personalized gold plated necklaces

Part of the joy in gifting is picking something that’s truly personalized to the recipient. oNecklace is a new brand I’ve just discovered recently that offers custom lettered gold plated necklaces. You can have a gift personalized with a name, inspirational words, or something personal to remind them of you. The typography is modern and sleek. This is a fun trendy gift in a glowing gold finish. I had been looking for a lettered necklace to add to my collection, and oNecklace was generous enough to gift me a piece to try. It arrived just a few days back, and it’s absolutely beautiful! I had mine customized to read “dream”… for Day in my Dreams of course. But more importantly, because I believe in the power of chasing a dream.

For the leather lover: Status Anxiety buttery, luxury leather handbags

That butter soft feeling that literally sends tingles down your body? Yeah. Have a handbag girl on your list? Status Anxiety crafts beautiful leather bags for men and women. All I can say is, their leather is absolute butter, and extremely high quality. I’ve torn mine through airports, errands and everywhere in between, and they not only receive compliments, they’ve withheld the test of time and wear. Confession… I have more than 5-6 pieces from their collection. This is a gift guide repeat, because they’re that great.

For the health enthusiast: Khloe Kardashian’s new Dose & Co. collagen powders

Skin health, always at the forefront of my concerns. Good news for the health conscious girl on your gift list, Khloe Kardashian just launched her new brand Dose & Co., offering an assortment of collagen powders. Admittedly, I haven’t tried them yet. But only because they just arrived in absolutely beautiful packaging a couple of days back. I can’t wait to add them to soups and drinks for a quick and easy skin health booster. Each serving of Dose & Co. boasts 10,000mg (10g) of collagen to support hair, skin and nails. That’s a heavy punch in a delicious scoop of either flavored or plain powders.

Looking for more luxury gift ideas? Check out another luxury gift guide for her with more subscription and clothing brands worth discovering, or 12 great luxury basic gift ideas for the minimalist on your list. Of course, don’t forget to celebrate the real meaning behind the holidays. And don’t stress, this time is a gift. Enjoy the season with your friends and family. I hope this luxury gift guide is helpful in your holiday planning. Happy shopping, and keep checking back on Day in my Dreams blog for more luxury brand discoveries.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, some of the items above have been gifted to me over the years. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

entrepreneur lifestyle in a day in my dreams luxury fashion blog

fast track through a day in my dreams, and silence in a noisy world

Published by dayinmydreams

I can hear the sound of the electricity running through my lights as I sit here to write. That’s how unaccustomed I’ve become to silence. The refrigerator cooling, propane pilot light, the heater, the traffic outdoors a block away – it all sounds like an NYC traffic jam pounding in my ears.

photography:MOM | camera:CANNON 5D MARK III | luxury handbag: PRADA | basic pumps c/o: NAKED FEET SHOES

It’s almost the holiday season, and it seems we are all more in a rush than ever before.

In some ways, the silence feels even louder than the havoc a normal day might bring. Think about it. The first experience we have in the morning is jolting awake to a ringing alarm. If we dare silence it, we face it yet again. In my case, the cat is also screaming. The alarm works as her notification it’s time to harass mom clawing at her face for some morning affection.

Checking emails, texts, social notifications all happens next. We’re bombarded with notifications of happenings in those few hours we missed while we were asleep. Half the time we try to soak it in and get a grasp of the day while we’re brushing our teeth or trying to choke down a few sips of coffee.

Pack a lunch, feed the cat, out the door, and the drive to the office begins. We’re in a rush, because we’re always late. That darn snooze.

We fight the onslaught of morning traffic, shouting for the car in front of us to move while we slosh down some more caffeine. People are honking, dashing across the street… reckless in pursuit of the start of their day.

We arrive to work, immediately surrounded by urgent demands. Clearly a lot really does happen in those few hours since we left at such a late hour the night before. Emails, voicemails, office drop-by’s, people catching you in the hall. Welcome to America’s 9-5.

Except now it’s 7:30pm, we’re still trying to wrap up one last project… then at least we’ll only be behind on a couple things in the morning. Half the building’s lights are off. We wonder what it’s like to be in one of those cars that departed promptly at 5:01pm.

There’s that sound again, silence. But only for a moment as you’re urged to please leave the office so it can rest for the night.

Your phone is buzzing now. Dinner plans. You’ve somehow missed 87 messages since the 5 min break you took to wolf down your lunch. Those pumps never felt more like running shoes.

In the car, music pumping to try to set a new vibe for the rest of the night, you do a quick car mirror self-check and slam it back up – there’s no time for that.

Lights, more music, food, friends, laughter, stories, drama… it’s all a thrill… Everyone is talking at once. There is so much noice it sounds like a buzz rather than all separate noises.

Then you stop. Silence again. You realize you don’t remember the last breath you took, collapsing into the sheets at the end of the night. 1:33am. You have 5 hours of sleep, not bad, you think. I’ve had less in an entire week.

Life is crazy. It’s can be hectic, stressful, or just so exciting you can’t slow down. All this to say, there is truth in silence. You can discover a part of yourself you never knew, or maybe just forgotten.

Silence allows you to channel your focus in the direction you want it to go. It allows you to shape your dreams, instead of just following them blindly.

Run, chase, experience life. But don’t miss what’s happening because you’re too rushed to experience each moment to its fullest potential.

Don’t forget about people, goals, or life ambitions because you were so busy running circles around them.

This is a real life memoir of one day spent in a Day in my Dreams. A reminder to myself, and hopefully to some of you, those moments of silence are as important as the plans we make for ourselves. Sit back, reflect, and let yourself dream at night as often as you do in the day.

Packing so much in might feel like getting the most out of life, but if you’re not careful it will pass so fast you’ll miss it altogether. Take time for your mental health. Take time to reflect and remember.

Take time to learn about yourself and others around you. Take a moment of silence, for a day in your dreams.

winter skin solutions | Dermalogica’s skin smoothing cream review

Published by dayinmydreams

Daylight savings has past. Our days are shorter, darker and colder. Some embrace winter. Yet, no matter our preference, our skin remains unamused with the season’s changes. Our bodies thirst for hydration, as if the cold seeps into our very bones themselves. Youthful skin makes volumes of difference in how we look and feel. As such, a good moisturizer is the most important part of my morning routine. Looking for relief? Search no farther than Dermalogica’s all day moisturizing Skin Smoothing Cream.

photography:ME | camera:CANNON 5D MARK III | skin care products c/o:DERMALOGICA

Dermalogica sent me a tube of their Skin Smoothing Cream back in April of this year. Adamant on experience before review, I wanted to use the entire tube before sharing. It’s now November. I’ve dabbled with a few other moisturizers since then, but the tube is finally spent, and I’m ready to share my full experience in this Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream Review.

A bit about Dermalogica

First, a bit about the brand. I’ve sampled Dermalogica products for years, and have always appreciated their professional-grade skin care products. The brand itself was founded by Jane Wurwand, a skin therapist who is one of the most recognized and respected authorities in professional skin care therapy. Dermalogica is her brain child, and the brand has exploded as men and women flock to her for products that are genuinely healthy for their skin.

Dermalogica is great for sensitive skin

Dermalogica formulates their products free of artificial colors and fragrances, mineral oils, lanolin, S.D. alcohol, prarabens and micro plastics that can have negative effects on sensitive skin. They’re also certified cruelty-free, gluten-free and vegan. As someone who often reacts negatively to unnecessary additives, the pure approach to the cream’s formula was soothing and non-irritating.

If you have sensitive skin, think of Dermalogica as the professional-grade alternative to the drug store brand, Lubriderm (minus the gluey smell). No additives. No fragrance, just pure formula engineered for moister.

Dermalogica’s Skin Smoothing Cream locks in all-day moister

Dermalogia’s Skin Smoothing Cream is a facial moisturizer designed to infuse skin with 48 hours of hydration. So how did it hold up? After months of using the cream on my mixed to dry skin, I was happy with fully moisturized results. My skin felt moisturized and dewy, without an access of oil. It has a medium level of consistency, so I would recommend it for mixed or dry skin. If you have very oily skin, you may wish to opt for something a bit lighter.

So did it last 48 hours? Well, it’s hard to tell. It’s rare (if ever) I would go 48 hours without washing my face. So I cannot really attest to that. What I can say is that some creams I find myself applying twice right out of the shower, and again later in the evening. Dermalogica’s Skin Smoothing Cream kept me hydrated from morning until night.

Natural ingredients mean happier skin

Our skin wasn’t designed to withstand an onslaught of chemicals. I prefer to opt for brands that incorporate the power of natural ingredients in their beauty products. In Dermalogica’s Skin Smoothing Cream, you’ll find a healthy mix of ingredients including naturally moisturizing cucumber and antioxidant grape seed extract.

Vitamin C help with dark spots

Vitamins are essential for your skin, and Vitamin C has some incredible benefits including enhancing skin repair and supporting collagen reproduction. In fact, Allure calls vitamin C the “holy grail of skin care ingredients.”

Dermalogica also often incorporates vitamins in their products. I have been using the Biolumin-C Eye Serum during the same period since late spring, and its done wonders on evening out my skin tone around my eye area.

Dermalogica’s Skin Smoothing Cream also contains vitamin C, which can help even out your dark spots over time. For products with high levels of vitamin C, I find they also give a radiant glow to your skin just days after repeated use, even before they start attacking your darker trouble spots. The cream also contains vitamin E, which is important in repairing skin damage.

Dermalogica’s Skin Smoothing Cream in review

Overall, I was quite happy with my 6 month review of the Dermalogica Skin Smoothing cream. I experienced zero breakouts or sensitivity spots. My skin felt moisturized but non-greasy, and I maintained a fairly balanced skin tone throughout the trial period. The tube makes it easy to pack and travel with, and it also works great as a hand cream in a pinch. If you want to give them a try, I’ve included the shopping links below.

Here’s the recap:

Dermalogica is a leading professional-grade brand you can trust
Dermalogica leverages the power of natural ingredients
The Skin Smoothing Cream keeps your skin moisturized from day to night
It’s great for people with sensitive skin
It has a medium consistency that seems good for normal to dry skin
Vitamin C helps brighten your skin for a glowing finish
Vitamin E helps repair damage to the skin

Products:

I hope you found this review helpful, feel free to leave comments with any questions, and here’s to battling winter air with dewy, baby-fresh skin.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, these products were gifted to me by Dermalogica. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

we’re a new breed; we’re ready for winter this time

Published by dayinmydreams

The rain fell steadily behind the glass. Though the wind was as still as it was from indoors. The sky, dark, as was the unlit room. Days have gotten shorter. The sunlight, fighting for control of the shorter days. Fall has arrived, and with it, a hush of silence as we prepare for our first cold weather season in a post-Covid world.

Something about it feels quieter than before. Like the stillness resounds louder off of closed city doors.

If ever we were urged to stay home, now is the time we consider, that might not be such a bad thing. Bears hibernate through winters, saving their energy for the more habitable months. As we continue to adapt to a new normal, we consider what the new season will bring.

Trapped, alone, scared. The memories of summer past remind us of just how much has changed in such a short time. But while we first struggled to stay at home, we’ve now learned to embrace the silence.

We’ve become more innovative. We mastered work from home, video conferences, and grew closer to each other as we found new ways to connect. We’ve become productive, tackling DIY projects and renovations as we learned the importance of nesting in our own homes. We learned to love, in a different way. As we were forced either together or apart, we learned more about each other, and we learned which connections were strong enough to withstand a global pandemic.

We discovered who we were. Through challenges and change, we learned what was truly important, and learned how to fight for it.

This season will be another evolution for us all. We will be faced with new challenges as our outdoor refuges close for the colder weather, and we once again are confined to the comfort of our homes.

Just remember, we have faced this before, and we prevailed. We are the strong, the motivated, the innovative. Find your purpose and discover new ways to not only survive, but to live.

Find the light in every darkness. We’re a new breed. And winter’s got nothing on us now.

ear cuffs, pinky rings and glittering gold you’re going to want your hands on

Published by dayinmydreams

There’s something about that glow. That warm, sunlight hue, a smooth shine that catches the light. Gold. It’s fascinated us generation after generation, catching our eyes and inspiring the lavish desire to adorn ourselves in it’s brilliance. Whether you prefer platinum or rose undertones, there’s something about gold that’s truly timeless. And while this precious metal remains the same, the new generation of moguls continue to evolve it’s use and application.

New for this season, jewelry trends return to a more archaic timeline reminiscent of god-like royalty and adornment of the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Plaited hair embellishments, golden ear cuffs, arm bands and pinky rings leave no extremity off limits for an extra layer of shine.

While fall fashion trends loop around timeless basics, jewelry becomes more important as an expression of style to adorn otherwise simple attire. Looking for ways to illuminate your looks? Here are a few of this season’s most fire trends for 2020.

IMAGE CREDIT: aurate

Gold pinky rings

Leave no phalange uncovered. Simple gold pinky rings are all the rage. With wide bands and minimalist basics heading up the category, these are an essential basic that can subtly elevate every look. The silhouettes are timeless, so invest in some real 14-24K gold or gold plated pinky rings that will withstand hand washes and the test of time.

You can style gold rings with everyday casual denim and tees, or as a sophisticated touch of shine to evening and cocktail wear.

IMAGE CRED: aurate

Stacked ear cuffs

This is where you’ll want to go heavy on the metal. Ear cuffs are in, and the more the better. Forget committing to extra piercings. The new ear cuffs for 2020 are pressure bands that can be slipped on to your upper cartilage or stacked all the way up the sides of your ear. Wear them on both sides for an edgy queen-like vibe, or pick on ear to focus on for a more ethereal look. Maison Miru has a huge selection of gold plated ear cuffs both simple and crystal studded designed for some serious drama that’s bound to turn heads.

Ankle bracelets

This 90’s jewelry trend is back with a vengeance. Gold ankle bracelets were important for summer style, and continue to work their way into fall and transitional outfits as a low-key, understated statement of luxury embellishment. Wear them with wide leg slacks or over tights with your preppy feminine outfits. Mejuri has a ton of selections you can choose from that are 14-18K gold plated.

Statement gold chains

Following the trend of adorned essentials, a statement gold chain is the new must-have jewelry piece of the season. Both gold and silver are in, with the fashion leaders opting for pieces that hit just below the neckline in bulky chain silhouettes.

These style great over white tanks and layered blazers, oversized tees and rebellious style elements.

Looking to update your gold jewelry essentials? I’ve included some of my favorites for each category in the links above.

Or please feel free to check out my shop, where I’ve curated a few of my top picks for 2020 jewelry trends this season.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, this post is sponsored by Nakturnal. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!

how to pull off preppy style fall trends in 2020 without looking like a concierge

Published by dayinmydreams

Stark uniforms energize the desire to rebel and to push limits in a restricted environment. Done in the right way, it’s the sexy alluring look that’s driven many a classic heroine films in our culture. It’s no wonder why we’re all gushing over the school girl and preppy looks for this season. Fall and winter fashion trends in 2020 are all about some preppy style. Before you go all Blair and Serena, here are a few tips to keep your preppy style fresh for 2020.

IMAGE CRED: gg-media

Preppy style fall trends in 2020

Largely stemming from classic 90’s school girl looks from pleated skirts to plaid everything, 2020 preppy style has just a few subtle updates. After all, preppy may seem classic and straight forward, but there is always an evolution that’s involved for a truly modern take on preppy style. While the look can be tailored with a bit of edge, it can also look too austere if not executed correctly.

If you want to give the school girl prep look a try, here are a few helpful hints on how to style your outfits without looking to static or getting confused for an airline stewardess or high class concierge.

Don’t overdue the school girl accessories

Sure, you can wear a pleated skirt suit set with knee high socks, a necktie and a headband with curled hair and platform sneakers, but is all of that really necessary? Don’t get me wrong, be as bold as you desire. But unless you’re in the heart of the fashion world or you’re also moonlighting as an editorial style luxury fashion blogger, it might be overkill to layer on every 90’s accessory you can think of.

IMAGE CRED: unknown

To master preppy style fall trends in 2020, pick your statement. Wear headbands with a button up blouse and pullover for a look that’s preppy but with casual athleisure elements to keep it fresh. Wear a necktie with a blouse and mini for a look that’s tailored, but also office appropriate.

Preppy accessories make a big statement by themselves. Wear them separately for a more subtle approach that nods to the 90’s, without making you look like you’re still in middle school dress code.

For this look, I’ve focused on the necktie and quilted bag, paired with a cocktail mini skirt from the edgy luxury brand AS by DF. Their edgy pieces are the perfect compliment to offset traditional preppy pieces. They also have some great blazers, sheath dresses and staple leather pieces that are must-haves for fall style.

Invest in a classic essential white blouse

You don’t need to spend a fortune on a necktie or headbands galore, but invest in a few luxury fashion statement pieces that you’ll be able to style with your preppy pieces. An essential white blouse like this Anne Fontaine white blouse is a great place to start. It is the quintessential piece to pull of countless preppy looks this season. This particular piece has puff sleeves that add to that vintage preppy vibe, without dating it so much that it’s no longer versatile.

It’s the perfect piece to compliment ties, pleated skirts and layered cable knits for a sophisticated take on the schoolgirl preppy trend. It’s also a timeless essential that you’ll be able to cycle through your style year after year.

More outfit ideas for preppy style fall trends in 2020

Looking for more inspo? Check out the fall and winter 2020 trend recap on the fashion blog section, or follow my Pinterest for thousands of preppy style fall outfit ideas.

More Than Body Positivity with a LIVELY Bra Review

Published by dayinmydreams

A couple weeks back, I was contacted by a team working with LIVELY interested in a collaboration featuring a review of their bras. I’ve sometimes been apprehensive working with bra, lingerie or swimwear brands, but something about their “made by women for women” grabbed my attention.

Curious enough, I decided to experience the brand for myself and share a LIVELY Bra Review.

Before I get on my soapbox, let me tell you a bit about the brand. LIVELY Bra’s mission is to create a line of comfortable lingerie that empowers women. They believe women are sexy, smart and healthy, and they’ve developed a line of lingerie blurring the lines of lingerie, activewear and swim to fit into the modern woman’s lifestyle.

LIVELY bras are comfortable, sexy and affordable

First off, mission accomplished. I received two bras from LIVELY – The Lace Strapless and The All-Day Deep V bra. Both are truly so comfy, I was genuinely impressed, and very excited to get started on my LIVELY bra review. I almost never wear bras (sorry mom). But I’ve just become a convert. Up top is The Lace Strapless which is honestly great not only as a strapless, but also as a cute crop if you’re daring enough.

LIVELY Bra T-shirt Bra Review

The All-Day Deep V feels like a t-shirt bra, with literally no pinching or discomfort. And it’s sexy! The flattering fit works great under just about anything, and as I sit here now, I’m even wearing it under a sweatshirt (totally unnecessary, but very comfortable). Also, it’s just $35.

There’s some buzz around LIVELY Bras, and women are loving them

Honestly, I’m quite happy we moved forward with the LIVELY bra review, just to have the opportunity to try their brand. A funny thing happened (as it often does in life), just two nights back at girl’s night, one of my best babes started talking about LIVELY out of the blue, and I was so excited to share my story having just discovered them myself.

LIVELY Bras are made for the modern woman’s lifestyle

I work a full time job, manage a fashion blog and am pretty much always on the run. Functionality and comfort play a big role in my fashion choices. If you’re looking for comfortable, versatile essentials that fit into your crazy lifestyle, I definitely recommend giving LIVELY Bras a try. They’re sure to give your unworn pile of useless bras a run for their money.

Where to wear LIVELY Bras

You can wear them as everyday basics, for date night, or even at home as your comfy favorites. Whatever you’re into, they have a bra that just works. I even tried The Lace Strapless over a white basic blouse… and I’m quite happy with the resulting style.

LIVELY Bras supports Body positivity, and seeing the bigger picture

Secondly, shooting half naked in my bedroom, I was also sparked an inspired to share a message that goes beyond body positivity. Please keep reading women, this is something we all need to hear.

First off, this is not really about positivity, it’s about something so much more important than that.

I spent 2 hours trying to shoot one good shot of this new bra (which is the most comfortable thing I own btw) for the second feature of LIVELY. I was quite happy with the first shots of the lace bra – it made me feel sexy and empowered layered with some tailored pieces. However, shooting the Lively Deep V bra with a tripod and camera timer, each shot I reset more frustrated than the first.

Not because anything was wrong with the photo itself, but I found myself continually critiquing myself. Oh that’s not a flattering angle. I need to suck in more. Chin up, no one likes double chins. All that to say, here I am. We are all different. We all have good days and bad. We have days we look in the mirror and feel confident, and others where nothing seems quite right. That’s not what this post is about.

Honestly, so what.

Instead of letting every detail about yourself consume you, direct your attention to so many other women that feel the same way, or struggle with a lot worse. Encourage them. Support them. And see the beauty in them. It’s not always about learning to accept yourself or feel beautiful all the time. There’s a whole big world out there. Make someone else feel good, feed into them. Love people, and I promise you you’ll see something a lot better in the mirror than just what your body looks like.

Women supporting women

If you’ve met me in person, you know I’m a huge advocate about women supporting women. Though I don’t talk about it often enough on the blog, it’s something I feel extremely passionate about. LIVELY bras are made by women for women – just one more way we can all help support each other (literally and figuratively). If you haven’t heard of them and you’re reading this LIVELY bra review to learn a bit more about the brand, do be sure to check them out. They’re a company doing great things, and crafting some seriously amazing lingerie for the modern woman.

And, if you haven’t heard it lately, I think you’re beautiful. Not because I know you, not because you’re blessed with big boobs and a tiny waste. But because I believe in loving people. And whether I see your posts and we’ve never met, or if you’re my best friend, I promise I will always try to see the most beautiful parts of you, even on days when you can’t see it yourself.

In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, the featured perfume is in collaboration with LIVELY. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!