Let's Talk About...Facial Masks

Let's talk about...facial masks.

It's not a great picture, but I am wearing a lemon and honey peel away mask.

I am currently wearing a mask on my face. I can't smile much and I run the risk of catching some tiny baby hairs when I finally peel off this shiny, orangey layer. While it may not sound that great, I have really come to love putting varying kinds of masks on. It started as a one-time spa type hangout with a friend, pedicures, masks and wine; now I'm doing them once or twice a week. I like the act of putting the stuff on your face and waiting patiently (honestly, the waiting is some of the best part), and finally, finally peeling off, or washing off that strange but deliciously scented concoction to reveal beautifully smooth, glowing, radiant skin.

 I will partially attribute my fabulous golden goddess vibe that I've been strutting around in to seriously taking the time to take care of my skin. I never used to be one to religiously scrub and wash my face every day. I was lucky not to suffer from acne as a teen and I still maintain fairly clear skin as an adult. I just never took the time to honestly care for myself and as I quickly progress in years, I want to ensure that I am doing my best to look and feel beautiful, for myself if no one else.

Super cool big-eye filter.

Doing these wonderful little mini-spa timeouts a couple times a week gives me that little extra in my beauty routine (I'm terrible about moisturizing so in my head this makes up for it). Usually after I do a mask, I'll go sans foundation or BB cream for a day or two as my skin feels and looks so fresh I hate to cover it up. Masks and other little DIY pampering can go a long way in a few minutes for others too! I've shared a mask-and-wine evening with my mother-in-law and my bestie several times, and recently had a mini-makeover with a friend of mine on a long anticipated get together. I love the power of the mask. I also love the price and the variety of the mask! Any skin type can find their perfect fit, there are paper masks, peel-away masks, charcoal, diamond, green tea, mud, clay, the list goes on.

I recently bought a ton of different kinds from Walmart (above is a small selection). These packets are $1-1.37 a piece, and most are enough for two to four applications. They are awesome. A quick little pick me up at a completely reasonable price? I'll take it. Pamper yourself! If you tried one, try it. Doesn't matter who you are. The sheer act of taking the time out to cleanse your face, massage your face with your hands and applying the mask is relaxing. It's centering and I enjoy taking the time for myself. Soon soon soon I'm going to attempt at making a DIY version of my favorite masks as well! 

Make It Work!

8 Ways to Wear One Top
Playing dress up: how to make anything work with everything.

For my first try, I chose a rather simple piece: my white asymmetrical hem peplum tank. 

I chose this top for two reasons: 1) the silhouette of the piece is a modern classic, however I don't see enough of it and the cut of the piece, while being trendy, makes it potentially problematic in wearing attractively and 2) I already had it on.

1. "I'm not a normal mom, I'm a cool mom"

With: purple classic cardigan with navy trim by Old Navy, denim skinnies by Rue 21, fabulous everything-you-could-need-to-carry-bag (similar style, from Walmart US) and Faded Glory sandals. 

For: errands, coffee dates, etc
Why it works: it's the little update, the replacement of the standard tee or tank, that gives you a put together feel

2. Fabulous and Comfortable AF 

With: skinny waist-accentuating belt and black clutch (both Goodwill steals), patterned skinnies from Walmart (here's another cute pair) and awesomely comfortable wedges from shoedazzle.com
For: Getting a drink with the girls,going to lunch at that restaurant you've both been driving past for weeks, looking amazing in general
Why it works: the skinny belt pulls all the black accessories together and make the pants the standout piece of the outfit

3. Perfect for Spring and anything in between

With: lightweight khaki scarf, high-waisted black button front shorts from Rue 21 and strappy woven wedges in neutrals 

For: almost anything you want, shopping, hanging out, going to the movies, I'm pretty sure I could hike in these wedges

Why it works: it's comfortable, fun, versatile, the shorts look playful while adding a put together feel and the scarf and shoes work together to add a softer vibe

4. "If I must work then I will do it looking fabulous"

With: patterned eternity scarf, black 3/4 sleeve blazer, black pencil pants and  heels, courtesy of Goodwill

For: work, a meeting, exuding power

Why it works: this outfit could go so many ways with simply putting on or taking off one item, the look is simple and classic, yet it gives the air of...well, being a boss 

5. IDGAF I tramp when I want to

With: lace patterned body-con mini and blue suede booties

For: going out dancing (NOT alone though)...I can't think of anywhere else I would ever wear this 

Why it works: the only reason this could work is because it's a neutral top, however, look how long and lovely the stiletto booties make my legs look!

6. For the Classic Babe

With: goldtone bracelet, black clutch, black floral jacquard skirt from Rue 21, wide band belt and black fringed flats with goldtone accent 

For: something fancy-like Applebee's, weddings, church

Why this works: this is quintessentially an outfit that no one could ever be embarrassed to be seen with you in, it looks clean, sophisticated, timeless and ultimately appropriate

7. Anything Looks Good with Black

With: black casual skinnies and black sporty flats

For: everything that falls in the range of "casual", also impersonating Miley Cyrus

Why it works: Any neutrals work with any neutrals, adding the sporty flat gives you some balance and play when paired with the could-be dressy peplum top

8. "You think it doesn't work...but it does"

With: American flag print shorts and brown leather faux biker boots from Walmart.com

For: fair-going, watching the races, Summer BBQ's

Why it works: anything can work with the right attitude