What's In My Bag: Daytripping

     It's time for another round of "What's In My Bag", and we're talking about day-trip necessities;or mine, anyways. I tend to over-pack in every situation, especially when I'm going to be away from home, but I've condensed my load for efficient and happy traveling. Let's begin!

1//Reading Material: If I'm going to be a passenger, I like to bring some reading material to keep me entertained. I keep it light with my favorite magazine because reading an actual book on the road tends to make me a bit carsick; don't ask me how I got lucky enough for that reality.

2//Music: Whether it's just background noise or the roaring soundtrack to your travels, music is a must when on the road. I recommend using an iPod for variety, but also a back-up CD just in case the mp3 player would die. Personally, I enjoy a good mix-CD anyday. 

3//Field Notes: I am a big fan of carrying a notepad and pen around on a regular basis. If I didn't, any post ideas or to-do lists would be completely forgotten in the hustle and bustle of my day. This is no different while traveling. I like to jot down places I'd like to visit, be it shops or restaurants, and also song lyrics or other inspiration I might catch during a trip; anything!

4// Camera: I don't think I need to explain why I bring this item along with me. Everywhere. All of the time.

5// Sunnies: Even if it's cloudy on the morning you leave for a day trip, bring your sunglasses. Just do it. There is nothing worse than being stuck driving or walking about with the sun in your eyes.

6//Misc. Traveling can take a lot out of a person, so I like to bring my makeup bag along to keep a few extra things handy. This usually includes some face powder, mascara, chapstick, Tylenol, toiletry items, and even carsick bracelets just in case. Keeping them in a separate compartment or bag is SUPER helpful. I got this cute little pouch for just a dollar at Target.

7// Wallet and Change: Bringing your wallet with you is kind of a give-in, but carrying change during a roadtrip is key, mostly to be prepared for meter parking. I also recommend having cash, even if you're strictly a card user, as some places are indeed cash only.

8//Scent:  This one might just be a personal favorite, but I like to bring on any trip. Having a travel-size perfume roller or hand lotion keeps me from feeling totally gross after being on the road all day.

There you have it, my travel bag musts. What kind of things can you simply not go without on the road?

Until next time,

Heather

Outfit: Autumn Sun

     I have officially traded my usual monochromatic wardrobe in for all the Fall-tones I can get. I scored this lace number, sweater, and pair of shoes at second hand shops, where I just traded some of my old clothing for new pieces; that is my favorite way to shop. Prepare to see this sweater a lot more, as I have worn it almost everyday since I took it home. (I won't run you through my thoughts on cozy sweaters again, I promise.)

Until next time,

Heather

Outfit Details:

Hat- H&M

Sunnies-TJ Maxx

Dress- H&M

Sweater- Forever 21

Boots- Dolce Vita

Rags and Roses On Skin Care

     My skin has been troublesome since my middle school years. When I turned thirteen, my baby face disappeared and I was hit hard with stubborn acne. My breakouts were awful; ranging from large, inflamed, cystic pimples to small black and white heads all over my face. I tried to combat my acne with several different skin regimens, but they either didn't work at all or left my face completely dry. Towards the later years of high school and into college, my pimples started to calm down, becoming a once-in-awhile occurrence. But, I was left with pretty awful scarring. Although I still get the occasional breakout at twenty years-old, I have found a skin care routine that has dramatically helped my acne and scarring. Here's the scoop!

1. Clean and Clear Advantage Oil-Absorbing Cream Cleanser: 

This product changed my life. Is that dramatic? Well, then clearly you've never struggled with bad acne. The entire Clean and Clear Advantage line worked better for me than the highly-acclaimed Proactive system. Even better yet, this cleanser and the other Advantage products are available at the drugstore for a fraction of the cost; I pay between $5 and $8 for this face wash, depending on specials and coupons at my local stores. I use this in the morning, and it leaves my face feeling totally refreshed. It's powerful without any burning or dryness. 

2. Clean and Clear Persa Gel-10 Spot Treatment:

When a zit pops up on my face now, it goes away much faster with this spot treatment; sometimes even overnight. This spot treatment is about $5, and works wonders. It is very gentle and effective, without drying your skin out. 

3. Formula 10.0.6 Keep Me Clean Clarifying Facial Wipes:

This brand has made its way into my regular routine in the last year or so. Formula 10.0.6 is formulated to work on young, troublesome skin, and it really does. I use these wipes as my nightly "wash"; removing my makeup and cleansing at the same time. The wipes are infused with cucumber and witch hazel, which are both proven to calm irritation and work against acne-causing bacteria. 

4. Formula 10.0.6 Seriously Shine-Free Moisturizer:

I was always under the impression as a teen that if I had oily skin, the last thing I should do is add a facial lotion to it. I am happy to say that I was sorely mistaken. Adding an oil-free moisturizer to my daily routine has changed my skin completely; soft and with less acne scars. I used to use another Clean and Clear brand facial lotion, but as my breakouts have gotten easier to manage, I've switched to a gentler solution. This Formula 10.0.6 lotion uses bamboo extract and aloe vera to add moisture to skin without leaving it shiny. It's matte finish is perfect for wearing under makeup, and the product really goes a long way with just a dime-size application.

5. Formula 10.0.6 Deep Down Detox Mud Mask:

Not using a face mask was another facial myth I had fallen victim to as an adolescent, because my skin had the tendency to go from oily to flaky in an instant with certain products. But, I don't have this problem with Formula 10.0.6's orange and bergamot mud mask. I use this once a week, and it really takes care of all the junk I load my pores up with everyday. Unlike most other masks I've tried, this product is really breathable and doesn't hurt when you move your face; which is high on my priority list because I tend to watch television with my mask on. Have you ever tried not to laugh when Kim Kardashian cries?

     So, those are my skincare must-haves. I hope you find this post helpful, especially if you're dealing with sensitive skin as I have most of my life. What are some of your favorite products?

With love,

Heather

Please note: This is not a sponsored post. The product testimonies are purely opinion, and not meant to act as an endorsement for the above mentioned brands.

Style Icon: The Lisbon Sisters

     Sofia Coppola made her directorial debut with the film adaptation of Jeffrey Eugenides' novel, The Virgin Suicides. The plot centers around a couple and their five daughters, Cecelia (13), Lux (14), Bonnie (15), Mary (16), and Therese(17), whose lives take a turn for the worse after the suicide of the Cecelia. As the girls work to get past their grief, they are surrounded by gossipy neighbors and classmates, all trying to make sense of Cecelia's untimely death. But, the real disaster arrives to the sisters after the homecoming dance, when Lux's dreamboat date, Tripp Fontaine, keeps her out all night with cigarettes and peach schnapps. The girls are forced to live in the confinement of their own home, in their parent's attempts to keep them away from the destructive behaviors of their generation. The girls' only communication to the world around them are through phone calls and postcards to a group of neighborhood boys, who have become completely entranced by the sisters and their mysterious lives. After planning an escape for the Lisbon girls, the boys are instead struck with a series of events that they will spend the rest of their lives pondering.
     Coppola brought the dreamy and tragic lives of The Lisbon Sisters to life through simple dialogue, the perfect soundtrack, amazing cinematography, and of course, wardrobe. When outside of their school uniforms, the girls are draped in flowy whites; both for homecoming and the nightgowns we see them in for the rest of the movie. The 70's vibes can be made modern with soft florals and embroidery, as shown above. So, put on The Hollies and fall in love with these iconic characters.

Outfit: Sweater Weather

     As I'm sure you've gathered by now, I love sweater weather. The fact that I can finally wear this tribal favorite and all my other cozy knits has me in a wonderful mood( I guess its amazing what lower temperatures will do for my attitude). But, anywhoozer, these were taken during my girl's night in with Ashley. We had a blast baking, sipping pumpkin spice lattes, and watching The Bling Ring; that movie is golden, so if you haven't seen it, go do that. 

We had so much fun, that even Capone wanted in on it. He is THEE cutest.

Thanks for stopping by!

With love,

Heather

Outfit Details:

Bag, sunnies, and boots- T.J. Maxx

Jeans- Urban Outfitters

Sweater and blouse- Thrifted

Recipe: Sugar-Free Strawberry Mini-Pies

     My dear friend, Ashley, invited me over so that we could (FINALLY) watch The Bling Ring. We obviously needed a treat to accompany our movie night, so we decided on these mini-pies. They were super easy to make and even sugar-free! Here's the rundown:

The recipe calls for store-bought pie dough, cinnamon, honey, one orange, lemon juice, strawberries, and one egg. You'll also need cupcake tins, wax or parchment paper, and cooking spray. I will admit that there is a very small amount of sugar in the pie dough; less than 2 %. But, the filling is in fact sugar-free.

     First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Spray your tins with cooking spray, then tear strips of wax or parchment paper to line the shells. This will ensure easy removal. Next, unroll the pie dough from its package, and use a circular cookie cutter to make your pie rounds. After the dough is cut, shape the rounds into your tins. The original recipe that we used said to use mini-cupcake tins, but we just used regular sized ones. I will say we created more work for ourselves, as we had to use our dough scraps to create the rest of the crust around the tins. So, if you do have the mini tins on hand, just go with those! 

     Once your tins are lined, move onto the filling. Depending on the size of the berries and your cupcake pans, cut 8-12 strawberries into quarters. In a bowl, mix 2 to 2 and 1/2 tablespoons of honey, 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1/2 tablespoon of grated or chopped orange zest, and just a splash of the orange juice. Once your mixture is blended well, add your berries and coat evenly.

     In a small bowl, whisk one egg completely for your egg wash. Spoon your berry mixture into your pie shells, brush your egg wash around the edges of the crust, and top your pies with the second crust. Using a fork, press the edges of the shells together. Next, lightly brush your pies with the remaining egg wash; this will give you a crispy, golden crust. Place the pans on the middle rack of your oven, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crusts are evenly colored.

     Once the pies are finished baking, remove from the oven and let them cool for at least half an hour before enjoying a taste. Since these are small and sugar-free, you can have two or six! Or, at least thats what I've convinced myself. These things are crazy good, you guys. I am already stoked about trying out different fillings, and flavor combinations for the next round. Be sure to show Ashley some love by seeing her snapshots of our evening here.

Happy eating, readers.

Until next time, 

Heather

(This recipe was adapted from this one here.)

Fall Is Here, Hear the Yell

     I know the official day for Fall is the 22nd of this month, but the evidence of the season's arrival is clear as can be around here. Sweaters and boots have been a regular addition to my outfits,  all the greenery is turning to gold, and there is a chill in the air that I can't get enough of. Andy and I took to the reservoir for an evening stroll, and I was over the moon the whole time about Mother Nature's new look. My desire to be outdoors is even stronger than it was in the Summer months, and I'm going with it before snow falls.

      This season holds a lot more excitement than I've previously been accustomed to; I'll have concerts and day-trips galore to share on here with everyone. I'm also in the process of planning a few Halloween/Fall inspired DIY projects and recipes for Rags and Roses, so stay tuned!

With love,

Heather

A Lazy-Day Playlist

I am a firm believer that there are just some days a person should not be bothered by the world. I'm talking sleeping in, staying in your pajamas, making breakfast at noon, napping, reading a book, and watching re-runs; just laziness. And, in honor of these kinds of  days, I've created a playlist of some of my current jams to accompany your unproductive behavior. Enjoy the tunes and the sweet feels of doing absolutely nothing.

Until next time,

Heather

1. Pity Sex- Dogwalk
2. The Front Bottoms- I Swear To God The Devil Made Me Do It
3. Now, Now- Dead Oaks
4. Tigers Jaw- I Saw Water
5. Aidan Knight- The Sun
6. Bombay Bicycle Club- Dust On the Ground (Acoustic)
7. Kate Nash- Later On
8, Cold War Kids- Loner Phase
9. Dr. Dog- Shadow People
10. The Postal Service- Natural Anthem
11. Jenny and Johnny- Straight Edge of the Blade
12. Manchester Orchestra- I Could Be With Anyone
13. The Walkman- In the New Year
14. Kevin Devine- The Only One
15. Coconut Records- I Am Young
16. Ra Ra Riot- Can You Tell
17. Miniature Tigers- Bullfighter Jacket
18. Vampire Weekend- Ya Hey
19. Arcade Fire- No Cars Go
20. Lucius- Tempest

Autumn Inspo

As you may have figured out, I am a girl who LOVES Fall. The cooler temperatures, cozy attire, warm cider, and pumpkin-flavored everything; what's not to love? This is the time of the year that I really focus in on my style, simply because I love shopping for Autumn. I mean, wouldn't you rather shop for sweaters over bikinis? My answer is yes. Everytime. I'm preparing myself for the season this year with chunky knits and subtle tribal prints, paired with a great pair of ankle boots. For accessories, I'm really into mixed-metals, faux-leather studded bracelets, and stones like amber and turquoise. A big carpet bag in a warm-tone, along with a floppy fedora are also a part of my must-haves. When it comes to beauty products, I'm looking to my trusty rose salve to keep away dry skin and lips. Lip-stains in soft corals, smokey neutrals for the eyes, and a deeper pink blush tops my make-up list. I'm eager to trade in my bright Summer nail polishes for burgundy and teal varieties, as well. Finding a new scent for Fall is just as important, as I swap my floral perfumes for something more subtle and fitting for the season. This year, I'm going with The Beat by Burberry; with notes of cardamom, ceylon tea, mandarin, cedarwood, and other kinds of wonderful.
     That about completes my list, although I'm sure to find other goodies that I just can't go on without. What are some of your Fall essentials?
With love,
Heather

Outfit: Back to Basics

     I go through extreme phases with my style, that range from an obsession with different textures and shapes. I've never been one to have a cohesive wardrobe, as some of my clothing looks like there's no way it belongs to the same person. The reason for this is simply a love of all styles; e.i. boho, military-inspired, sleek and clean, grungy, etc. I JUST WANT IT ALL. But, there are pieces that stand the test of time and remain fashionable; the classics. This, for me, includes a good fitting pair of black pants, a loose tee, and flats. And,I'm really starting to find that simplicity suits me better than some of the pieces hanging in my closet. Yikes.

Until next time,

Heather

Outfit Details:

Top- Urban Outfitters

Pants- Urban Outfitters

Flats- Target

Purse- Vintage

"I Love Not Man the Less, But Nature More..."

     The air is getting chilly, people. But, I assure you that this is not interfering with my sense of adventure. If anything, this cool air and feel of a new season has sparked an outdoorsy nerve that has been dormant for months. My best friend, Ashley, is back finally back from her part-time hometown of Savannah, and we took to the trails at Lowe-Volk for our long-awaited reunion. We gabbed over coffee and explored the woods until we couldn't stand anymore mosquito bites. I'm so happy to have this fellow blogger as a gal-pal, as we are already planning on a ton of future concerts and apple-picking and enjoying Halloween; too many good things! 

     That's all for me, readers. If you're looking for more blogging goodness to soak up, head over to Fancy That for a peek at the pictures I took for an outfit post that will have you craving sweater weather, and more snapshots from our walk.  Enjoy the weekend! Mine will be spent watching a friend's cats and dogs while she's out of town, and eating some pizza if I have any say in the matter.

xoxo,

Heather