A Good Read

This past year, I’ve really been focusing on what makes me happy. What styles bring me joy, what activities fulfill me, what people make my day? Through this journey, I’m honestly surprised how much I’ve learned. I discovered that I hate roller coasters, I abhor culottes, and I do not enjoy late nights out. One thing I’ve rediscovered my love for? Reading.

There’s something about reading an incredible book that gives me life. I was a huge nerd in elementary school and participated in every reading program offered. And when my school partnered with Pizza Hut for the most read books? You best know I conquered that ish.

And now that I take the bus into work each day, I use my kindle daily, there’s nothing like flipping through pages of your favorite book or magazine. Lately, I have been super drawn to thriller novels (The Girl on the Train, Gone Girl, Sharp Objects, Luckiest Girl Alive, anyone??) There’s nothing better than picking up a good book and gettin’ down with my bad ol’ mysterious self.

So who is this girl in the photos? She’s the part of me that swings by the library a few blocks down from work during her lunch break to browse her favorite books. The kindle is great to immediacy, but you can’t ponder through the shelves like you can in real life. It’s a bit chilly in the library, so she wears her favorite fingerless armwarmers from Denada. Now she can keep cozy while still being able to snapchat her trip. I’d call that a win-win.

On Julien: Fingerless armwarmers, Denada c/o. Skirt, Express. T-shirt, Halogen. Belt, J.Crew (similar.) Necklace, Hanuel. 

The Coziest Scarf of All

…And the fall inspiration continues! Yes, I know it’s blazing hot today but how could I not share another cozy look when Denada is doing ANOTHER giveaway for $100 to her shop?! (Just head to her Instagram and Facebook to enter!)

I’d like for you to meet the coziest scarf I’ve ever felt in my life. Not even like, “oh there’s another one almost as soft…” NO. This is it, folks. The softest scarf there ever was.

Since it’s hard to really imagine cozy feels when it’s 90 degrees outside, let me paint a picture for you. It’s nearing the end of Fall, and winter is just around the corner. You have a weekend client meeting (you bloggers know where I’m at) and want to portray your best cold-weather self. You throw on your high waisted black jeans and a tank top - the perfect base. Next, you search out the perfect jacket that says, “I’m professional but I’m also not trying too hard and it’s the weekend…” so you grab your cotton grey blazer from your closet. Booties because your toes get cold and a little pop of something gem-like. Subtle but stylish. Lastly, before you run out the door, you grab your favorite scarf. Because it not only keeps you warm but it’s the perfect finishing touch.

On Julien: Infinity scarf, Denada c/o. Jacket, Sweats by Norma Kamali. Pants, NYDJ. Bag, Coach (old.) Boots, Impo Ochoa via DSW.

Plaid Midi Skirt

Last weekend, the hubby and I spent the weekend visiting his side of the family in the Shenandoah Valley. Going to the country is always so fun because it’s so different from life closer to the city. I got to meet my first nephew (BABIES!!!), cozy up by a campfire and pick fruit (WHO AM I?!)  I love dressing up with my surroundings. While trips to the countryside typically include denim and flannel, this skirt pulled me out of my style rut in a big way.

I borrowed my sis-in-law's Ralph Lauren belt and dainty blouse for a bit of weekend antiquing, and paired it with a leather jacket and simple tee for our visit to Hartland Orchard later on. It’s also the perfect skirt for spinning...because where's the fun in a skirt not spinning?! #AMIRIGHT Topped off the look with my favorite bag from H&M (that I literally take everywhere.)

Love the skirt? It’s on sale for under $50! AND eShakti is giving It’s Julien readers 10% off their entire site until 11/7! The discount doesn’t apply to sales, clearance or overstock, but it can be combined with other promotions! Just use code: ITSJULIEN

On Julien: Skirt, eShakti c/o. Banana Republic blouse and Ralph Lauren braided belt, borrowed. Shoes, The Mint Julep Boutique c/o. Bag, H&M (similar.)

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Birchbox

I’m becoming quite the makeup fiend. After reviewing our banking accounts, my husband texted me in a fury, “How in the world did you spend $75 at Ulta?!” ...I had only bought three things.

And when it comes to makeup, I'm like a kid in a candy store. There are so many different lipstick shades, conturing brushes and nail colors - it can be overwhelming but kind of magical at the same time. Just like my closet, I’ve been really looking to build my makeup and skincare collection, focusing more on quality than quantity. 

This is why Birchbox is so freaking awesome - I can build my go-to items while trying and comparing new ones. I got this box a few weeks ago and wanted to share a little review and my favorite things in the box. Did I find any that I want to add to my daily collection? Read below to find out.

1. Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
Full Size price: $34

This was one of my favorite pieces in the box. I’ve been on the hunt for a great microscrub and this one is terrific. I have to be careful about the products I use due to my sensitive skin, but my skin reacted great with this. I could tell a noticeable difference in the brightness of my face after using it. With ingredients like papaya, aloe vera, coconut and vitamins B and E, I’d say this product is a keeper.

2. Egyptian Magic Skin Cream
Full size price: $26 for 2 oz

This one was a bit of a mystery to me. When I opened it, I was expecting a cream…but it’s more of a beeswax texture. I hadn’t put something like this on my face before, but my skin reacted positively to this as well. No wonder - it only has six ingredients!! Olive oil, beeswax, honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis extract. Turns out, you can even put this in your hair or use it as a treatment for burns. Maybe I believe in magic after all.

3. Marcelle Waterproof Eyeliner
Full size price: $11

I received this eyeliner in the Indigo shade and I must admit, I’m not crazy about it. Maybe it’s because I found the best liquid liner ever…or maybe it’s because I’m not confident enough to stray from my brown-black/black eyeliner ways. On the positive side, this is an all-day lasting color which is definitely a plus.

4. COOLA Face SPF 30 Unscented Matte Tint
Full size price: $36

I hate admitting this, but I hate putting on sunscreen. I KNOW, I KNOWWW, it’s the worst. I’m the worst. It just smells so…sunscreen’y. Ick. And it makes my face feel greasy. I don’t wear it as much as I should for sure. But this product isn’t like your typical sunscreen. It’s made from 70% organic materials and has a nice, matte finish. The beige tint really helped even out my skin tone a ton too. Dare I say I’m a sunscreen convert??!

5. MDSolarSciences Daily Eye Repair Emulsion
Full size price: $82

I saved the best for last! Honestly, when I first saw it, I wasn’t impressed. No fancy design, no modern font…and what kind of name is MD Solar Sciences? You guys - it doesn’t even matter. I should know better than to judge a book by it’s cover because THIS IS THE BEST STUFF EVER. It really, truly is. It applies like a gel but has made my face silky smooth and my eye area incredibly moisturized. I’m pretty bummed about the price. Eighty bucks is a ton for an eye serum. But if you’re looking for an awesome eye repair emulsion and don't mind the hefty price tag, this is THE ONE. 

Disclosure: I received the products featured in this review for free from Birchbox.

Denim Jumpsuit and Hair Cuttery Style

I’ve been really trying to up my hair game lately. You guys may remember a few months ago when I worked with Hair Cuttery to share how they styled my hair (if not, it’s right here!) I had such a great time that they invited me back to try another hairstyle this past weekend! How could I say no?! I’d had a long week and needed a bit of a pick-me-up!

I called the Purcellville location to schedule an appointment and coincidentally got the same Master Stylist as last time, Katelyn! She is seriously awesome at what she does, gives the best head massages and can read people like a book. Let me be real with you for a moment…I’d already shot a video for the blog that morning (coming soon!) and I’d stayed up way too late the night before…I wasn’t exactly in a chatting mood and mostly wanted to catch up on my Who What Wear. I didn’t have to say a word. My stylist totally read my “can I just enjoy these moments in peace and quiet” vibes and I felt totally rejuvenated by the time I left.

Ask anyone, and they’ll tell you I’m the most indecisive person, probably ever. When it came time for me to pick a hairstyle, I basically spat out a bunch of words like, “wavy” “beachy,” “casual,” “textured,” and “maybe throw a braid in there if you want.” Thank goodness the woman knew what she was doing. She used a wand, mouse, root booster and a touch of hairspray to give me this look. I love the front braid she did too - it was the perfect “GET MY HAIR OUT OF MY FACE” solution for a hot and humid day. Be sure to head down to the bottom of the post to see the before and after photos!

And - if you're wondering how to really maximize on curling your own hair, be sure to check out this article by my friend Jen Reviews!

Keep up with Hair Cuttery on Facebook and Twitter. You can also upload your hairstyle after getting your hair done at the Hair Cuttery nearest you (locations here) to be featured in their blog gallery! Just use the hashtag, #MyHCLook!

Big shout out to Hair Cuttery for sponsoring this post and for styling my hair! I have received compensation and a free salon service from Hair Cuttery. All opinions shared are my own.

On Julien: Jumpsuit, GAP (Tysons location) c/o. Bandana, GAP c/o. Sandals, J.Crew. Bag, South Moon Under. Black lambskin tassel, Tassels by Sarah c/o. Earrings, Sophie Blake NY. Bracelets, Hanuel and Trina Turk. Knot ring, Hanuel c/o. Lips, Butter London in Apricot Sunray.

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ABOUT HAIR CUTTERY: Hair Cuttery is the largest family owned and operated chain of hair salons in the country, with nearly 900 company-owned locations on the East Coast, and in New England and the Midwest.  A full-service, value-priced salon, Hair Cuttery offers a full complement of cuts and styling, coloring, waxing and texturizing services with no appointment necessary, as well as a full line of professional hair care products.  Hair Cuttery is a division of Ratner Companies, based in Vienna, VA.