Rip Her to Shreds

Signs of Spring are beginning to make themselves known, but it has still been a bit chilly here in Ohio. So, I've been keeping it pretty casual until I can fully drown myself in floral print and maybe even a few colors; but let's not get too crazy. This combination of pieces is not something I ever thought I'd gravitate towards, but I've really been digging a more laid back, "boys-wear" vibe. I've taken a lot of inspiration from Estee Lalonde, who is absolutely killing it with her style lately. These jeans are an absolute dream; the wash, the rips, the fit. And, these slip-on sneakers are a chic update on the checker Vans I used to be obsessed during my early teen years. I've been trying to build up a more cohesive and quality wardrobe over the last few months, and I can already tell all of these pieces pictured above will be wearable in a variety of looks, especially heading into the warmer months. I'm planning on doing a Spring clothing haul featuring some of the clothing I've acquired, so stay tuned for that! What pieces are you loving or using  transition into Spring and Summer?

-Heather

Outfit Details:

Jacket- Old Navy

Bag-Forever 21 (thrifted)

Jeans- Urban Outfitters (Gabriel Brothers)

Sweater- Gabriel Brothers

Sneakers- Torrid (Gabriel Brothers)

Sunglasses- T.J. Maxx

Current Skincare Routine + Acne Update

A little over a year ago, I got hit hard by acne. I had just moved and started a new job, so I chopped it up to stress at first. But, I quickly realized that it was more serious than that. I was experiencing painful, cystic acne that left scarring and caused a tremendous amount of sensitivity to anything I put on my face. I felt like it was never going to clear up, but I am finally seeing some light in the situation. After becoming really conscious about what makeup and skincare products I use, and getting connected with a caring dermatologist, I am really noticing progress. So, I thought I'd share some of the things that seem to be working for me, in hopes that they can be of help to someone else suffering from acne. 

"Suffering" may seem like a dramatic term to some, but to those who are struggling with their skin, its very real. This was my skin at it's worse. I hated who I was in this picture. Not even because of the acne, but because of how unhappy I was. I was negative and reclusive. I avoided people and constantly beat myself up. My anxiety spiraled and any confidence I had completely dissolved. You'll see what my skin is looking like nowadays at the end of this post, so let's get into it! 

Morning Routine// I start by cleansing my skin with the Batty's Bath Manuka Honey Cold-Pressed Soap. Manuka honey is known for it's antibacterial and healing properties. It is supposed to help calm and soothe the skin, while evening tone and improving texture. I am really getting on well with this one. It lathers into a really creamy cleanser and leaves my skin feeling like it can breathe. I love that it cleans without making my face feel dry. After my cleanser, I've been applying my Smashbox Primer Oil as needed. I find that it just adds a boost of hydration and softens any dry patches that I may have, making applying makeup easier. I am still using up a sample-size of this product that I received in last month's Ipsy bag, but fully intend to purchase the full-size version. After my facial oil, its on to moisturizer. I've been testing out another winner by Batty's Bath; the Raw Radiance moisturizer. This is the first moisturizer that Batty's has offered without coconut oil, as some people with acne experience sensitivity with it. This product nourishes my skin, but is still light enough to wear during the day and under makeup. It absorbs quickly and never feels greasy.

Evening Routine// I begin my evening routine by removing my makeup with organic, cold-pressed coconut oil. I use a quarter-sized amount to act as a cleansing balm, and wipe away my makeup. Moving on to my "second cleanse", I exfoliate with the Batty's Bath Pineapple Facial Scrub. This stuff is AMAZING. First of all, it smells phenomenal. Second, it gently removes any makeup or grime with soft, natural beads and fruit enzymes. I have noticed such a difference in the texture and tone of my skin since using this scrub. It's my favorite step in the routine! Next, I use my Avene Hydrating Serum. This serum is formulated for sensitive skin and works wonders at helping you get the most from any products you apply on top of it. It is on the pricey side, and I am in the market for a more affordable option. So, please leave me some suggestions below! After my serum is fully absorbed, I apply a retinol-based cream that my dermatologist prescribed to me. This is helping with my deep surface scars or "pitting", as it's commonly known. This cream can be a bit drying, hence the addition of hydrating products. I complete my nightly skincare with a heavy-duty Anti-Aging Moisturizer by Shea Moisture. This is a thick cream that I feel works best at night, so it can be fully absorbed. It's really helped with my dryness, and leaves my skin feeling supple and plump.

Add-Ons// I use the following products to target specific concerns as they arrive, meaning they are not necessary to use everyday. If I am in need of even more moisture, I reach for these two Shea Moisture products; a dry oil mist (that I wear at night after serum and before my night cream) and their moisturizing mask. Another mask that I use once a week is this favorite from Batty's Bath; the dry clay mask. It draws out any impurities and leaves my skin feeling soft without over drying. Lastly, we have the Mario Badescu facial spray. I use this as a toner, makeup setting spray, or whenever I need a hydrating/cooling boost.

This is me now.  My skin is evening out, and I just feel healthier in mind and body (and skin, of course!). As silly as it sounds, I highly recommend documenting progress with weekly or monthly pictures, so you can actively see your results. This has helped my patience with the whole process, and made me aware of just how much my skin is changing for the better. Acne sucks. Anyone who tells you otherwise has never had it. But, it does get better. And, I promise that you will find something that works for you, even if it takes some time. Please remember to be kind to yourself  in the meantime. Acne may not be beautiful, but YOU are.

With love,

Heather

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers

I am a firm believer in semi-homemade meals, especially given that I work two jobs. By the end of the day, I'm ready for something quick, easy, and satisfying. These peppers fit that description perfectly. Stuffed peppers in general are a dream because there are so many variations and its a great way to use up leftovers, like rice or beans; whatever! Just put it in a pepper, y'all. I decided to go in a Mediterranean direction with mine, though. So, here's the scoop!

Pick your favorite seasoned boxed rice mix, and cook according to the package directions. I used a garlic-basil brown rice and quinoa mix from Aldi, and I loved the end result. Remove the stems from your peppers(I used red, yellow, and orange peppers), cut the tops off, and scoop out the seeds from the inside. Dice the tops that you removed, along with a red onion and two garlic cloves. Saute your veggies over medium heat with a couple tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, cumin, and all-purpose seasoning (like Mrs. Dash) until softened. In a large mixing bowl, combine your rice, veggies, a can of chick peas, a handful of feta cheese, the juice of half a lemon, and a pinch of fresh dill. Spoon the mixture into the peppers, and top with mozzarella cheese. I ended up cutting my peppers in half to really stretch the meal for leftovers, but you could leave them whole. Bake at 350 degrees until the peppers are soft and the cheese has melted.  

I served my peppers alongside falafels (also from a box mix), fresh veggies, hummus, and a ridiculously simple cucumber-dill yogurt sauce (really through, the only three ingredients are in the name of the sauce; so easy). I'd love to know if you try these out, or what your favorite semi-homemade meals are, so leave a comment below! 

Until next time,

Heather

Birchbox VS Ipsy: February 2016

Let me tell you two things that I love: getting mail and trying new products. So, it's kind of a give-in that I am all about subscription boxes; especially Birchbox and Ipsy. I often get picked on by the girls at work for getting both, but at only ten dollars each per month, how could I not? I love comparing the two each month, and seeing the value of both brands. Oftentimes, you're sent full-size products or an extra item. I've found them especially helpful over the last few months that my skin has gone from oily and acne-prone to dry and dull. Since you create a custom profile including your skincare and beauty needs/concerns, it's a great way to discover the perfect products for your routine. Both brands have a rewards system in place which helps earn points towards full-sized products by writing reviews or referring friends, so you can really save on your favorites. Here's what I scored in my February box and bag!

Let's start with Ipsy! I was very pleased with this month's "Pretty in Pink" themed bag. I received two hydrating skincare products, the Promise Organic argan oil moisturizer and the Smashbox Cosmetics primer oil; both of which are amazing.  The Promise Organic moisturizer is light weight and perfect for everyday use. It's 100% natural and dermatologist tested for sensitive skin. I found out that it's available through CVS, too, making it an amazing budget option.The primer oil is supposed to create a smooth base for makeup, but I find that it works best mixed into a moisturizer (especially at night) for added hydration. It has ingredients like jojoba oil and chamomile to sooth and balance your complexion.

Another winner for me this month was the Oliva Palermo for Ciate London nail polish in "My Off Duty Nude". This polish is the most beautiful pinky-nude tone, that goes with absolutely everything. The formula applies evenly and goes opaque after two coats. I don't get to paint my nails often since I work as a barista, but I know this will be the one I reach to most often. Unfortunately, the last two products that I received this month were duds for me. The Paula Dorf  Baby Eyes Enhancer pencil is a nude-colored liner meant to brighten your waterline. I love pencils like this, but this one applied uneven and the color was too peachy. I would highly recommend similar products from NYX or Rimmel over this one. Finally, we have this gloss by Jessica Leibeskind. I HATED this gloss. I don't generally feel such strong animosity towards makeup, but this was just awful. I was so sticky, and so full of glitter. I imagine you could get similar results by applying roll-on glitter glue. I find it totally offensive that the full size version retails for $22. But, three out of five isn't bad. Rock on, Ipsy.

Now on to Birchbox, who went full on Valentine's-inspired for their February box. There was a little bit of everything in this box, from hair care to nails, which I really enjoyed. First up is the Whish Three Whishes body butter in lavender. I've received other lovely samples by Whish through Birchbox, so I had high hopes for this one, and was not disappointed in the end. I find lavender to be so calming, and this formula was quick-absorbing and very hydrating. I tossed mine in my purse, and it's been my go-to hand cream ever since. Next is the Neuma Beauty Reneu Scalp Therapy scrub. I had never heard of an exfoliate for your hair, so I was intrigued and eager to try this out. It has a really refreshing, minty scent that's cooling/slightly tingly, and the gritty texture did feel nice on my scalp. I could really tell that it broke down product build-up, and left my hair clean. This would be really effective for people with dandruff or oily hair.The Clarifying Clay Mask by Malin and Goetz was another win for me. This mask doubles as an exfoliate, and leaves your skin feeling completely refreshed. I've been using it once or twice a week for a pick-me up for my dry, Winter skin. 

I was equally pleased with Birchbox's nail polish selection this month. "That's my Jam" by Color Club is the perfect burgundy, red tone which is a color that I tend to gravitate towards in the colder months. The formula went on smooth and was long-lasting; just what you want in a polish! Last, but most certainly not least is this Metallic Lip Tar by Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics. I have heard such amazing reviews on this product, all of which are well-deserved. I received mine in the shade Black Metal Dahlia, which is a deep berry, red; much like the aforementioned nail polish. You need only the tiniest amount to achieve an opaque coverage, and the finish is beautiful. Even more note-worthy is the fact that it is vegan and cruelty-free!

 So, there you have it: my February Ipsy Bag and Birchbox. Did you receive any products that were different? I'd love to hear which one you prefer, or just your thoughts on subscription boxes in general.  Personally, it's a total pick-me-up to see mine in the mail each month; just something fun to get yourself and test out. I'm already loving the previews for next months' goodies from both brands. I'll be sure to report back on those, as well. 

Until next time,

Heather

The Suede Skirt

     I've been avoiding this "suede" trend like the plague since seeing it go to new extremes on Pinterest and in magazines. I'm good with it on my boots and bags(faux-suede, course), and that's where it generally ends for me. But, I fell for this Old Navy skirt; or rather it's price. I scored this little number for $7.99 on clearance!  Forever late to the trend party because BARGAINS. The color and shape are both really beautiful, and it's quality is impeccable. I like that it's structured rather than flouncy, making it perfect for windy days. I know I will get even more use out of it come summertime. I somehow managed to score tickets for the Brand New and Modest Mouse tour, so Andy and I will be Chicago-bound come July. I'm already thinking of pairing this skirt with loose t-shirts and ankle boots. I've been really trying to find new ways to wear my clothes all-year round. I think skirts are a staple for that, since you can easily throw a pair of warm tights, boots, and a sweater on with them. All-in-all, an eight bucks well spent! Which is great because those aforementioned tickets cost an arm and a leg, and maybe even a slice of my soul. WORTH IT. 

Have a great weekend, everyone!

-Heather

Outfit Details:

Coat- Gabriel Brothers

Teddy sweater- Kensie (thrifted!)

Black turtleneck- vintage

Skirt & loafers- Old Navy

When Dry Skin's Got You Down...

     Oh, skincare. The ever-present issue in my life. I've been oily, acne-ridden, sensitive, and everything in between. My skin has recently changed pretty drastically due to being on a dermatologist-prescribed Tretinoin cream(along with the use of natural cleansers/treatments), which aims to improve the look of roughness and uneven tone. I have a lot of deep scarring and hyper-pigmentation left over from my days of having cystic acne. And, while I've been loving my results in terms of no longer having active breakouts or redness, using this product in the Winter has DEMOLISHED my poor face. I have had patches of dry, textured skin on my cheeks and down my neck, as well as flaky areas that basically reject anything I put over top of it. I noticed it was getting out of hand when my make-up was "chipping" off before I had even finished applying it because it was soaking up product. So, I decided to intervene with a handful of products and practices to get my skin hydrated again. I know Winter can be rough on anyone's skin, even without having the added burden of being on a topical treatment, so I hope the items listed below will come in handy for anyone looking to put a little moisture back into their lives this season.

A good way to turn over dry skin, and get fresh cells to produce is to exfoliate. But, sometimes dry skin also means sensitive skin, so harsh exfoliates can end up causing more damage than positive results. To have the best of both worlds, I have been using the Batty's Bath Mild Jojoba Oil Scrub everyday, as a part of my evening routine. This scrub is gentle, fragrance-free, and cleanses the skin without leaving it stripped of moisture. After cleansing and exfoliating my skin, I've been reaching for the Mario Badescu Facial Spray. This stuff is like a spa in a bottle. The mild rose scent is so calming, and I really notice it toning down any redness or inflammation. I also love using this as a setting spray for make-up, or just to throw in my bag and use as a little refresher throughout the day. If my skin has reached a severe level of dryness, I like to incorporate a facial oil, like this one from Bio Oil. I either put a thin layer on patches of dryness, or just add a couple drops into my moisturizer. Bio Oil is a good multi-tasker because is fights dehydration while evening any discoloration.

A good moisturizer should be apart of everyone's daily routine, but especially so if you're struggling with dryness. If you're looking for a simple, but effective moisturizer for daily use I would go with the Facial Primer Moisturizer from Batty's Bath. It is fragrance-free, and absorbs quickly without feeling heavy. I buy mine apart of the Detox Kit that is available on the brand's site. However, since Batty's is based in Canada, shipping can get pricey, and I always run out of my moisturizer before any other product in my kit. Which is why I like to have a trusty back-up on stand-by. This is where my Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisturizer comes into play. This stuff is amazing. It's a thicker consistency, and but manages to feel light on the skin. I find that it's best as a night cream, but it also wears nicely during the day under make-up. It's targeted for anti-aging, so it packs major hydration to make the skin appear more supple and firm. I find myself reaching for it basically everyday. I also started incorporating the facial mask from the same range two or three times a week to really beef up my dry skin defense. 

Since applying make-up became pretty tasking over dehydrated, flaky skin, I sought out a few products that would help. Enter the Too Faced Hangover Primer. This primer is lightweight and creamy, as opposed to the rubbery, silicone-based primers you may be used to. I find that it locks in moisture and makes your foundation stay put all day long, while providing a fresh/subtle glow to the skin. I've also been reaching for the It Cosmetics CC+ Cream for the added SPF and skin-protecting/perfecting benefits. This wears like a full-coverage foundation, but feels like a tinted moisturizer with the added plus of color correction and hydrating serum all in one. It's basically a gift from the beauty gods themselves. I've also been loving this lip balm that I received in my Ipsy bag this past month from Lasting Smiles. It's organic and packed with healing peppermint oils that make your chapped lips look like new again. Part of the profits go toward cleft surgeries for children, as well, which will make you feel even better about using it.

Your skin can often be a direct reflection of what is happening inside of your body. So, if you're experiencing dryness, try really upping your water intake. I always notice a difference in my skin, as well as my overall well-being, when I'm getting adequate amounts of water. Herbal and green teas also have amazing skin-detoxing and healing benefits. I've been drinking this herbal infusion from Yogi in the evenings, mostly to unwind and relax from the day, but also as part of my skincare regimen.

     I certainly hope you find these products and tips to be helpful during these dry, blustering Winter months. What products are your must-haves this season?

Until next time,

-Heather

Allow Me to Reintroduce Myself

(Sweater-T.J. Maxx, Denim-Levis, Boots-Ralph Lauren, Parka-Burlington)

     Well, hello there! It has been absolute ages since my last post. There really isn't any specific reason for the lengthy silence, I just sort of fell off the Blogger grid for a bit. I wasn't feeling as inspired as I once did with Rags and Roses, so I just chose to walk away for a minute(aka 5 months). I realized recently that I haven't really been doing anything for myself. I pretty much just work, then I come home and talk about work, and then I go to bed so that I can wake up and work some more. GROSS. I started to see how unhealthy that is, especially since I'm not doing anything particularly rewarding in my "career"(full-time barista, part-time bridal stylist). So, here I am. Again. 

I feel as though more than a few changes have occurred since the last time that I was consistently updating this blog, so I thought it would be nice to pop in before trying to get back into the swing of things.  As some of you may remember, I had been dealing with serious acne last year. This played a huge role in why I stopped blogging for a bit. Remaining upbeat while posting images of my blemish-ridden skin was just exhausting, to be honest. My confidence was basically erased, and I think that reflected in my posts. I am proud to say that I have since found a routine that nearly eliminated my breakouts, and I can't wait to share that on here. I will admit that I used to cram out posts just to maintain regular content, rather than be absolutely sure that I was proud of what I was sharing. That is definitely something I plan to change. I always want to be true to myself and deliver posts that I can really stand behind on here. I hope that a clear change in quality will be evident this time around. 

     Okay, so that's all out of the way. Now, I thought I'd "reintroduce" myself, because I really do feel like a new person entirely, even from just a few months back. I'm Heather. I'm twenty-two years old, and I live in Mansfield, Ohio. I started this blog as a sort-of "creative outlet", if you will, after I moved back to my small hometown after attending school in Cleveland. It began with a focus on thrifted/bargain fashion, and that is definitely still something I am very passionate about. It evolved into more of a "lifestyle" blog along the way, mainly because I have no "focus" in pretty much every aspect of my life. So, yeah. I like going to shows, making lists, reading the same books over again, cancelling plans, and Netflix. I like other things, too. I plan on giving college another go in the Fall since the first time was more of a success in terms of learning experiences and self-discovery, and less successful in terms of, you know, graduating. Debt/dropping out of college is funny, see? Anyways, I hope to become better acquainted with those of you who may be reading this, too. I'd love to tell you that the posts that are yet to come won't be quite as weird/long-winded as this one, but that would be a lie. You'll see.

-Heather