Winter Travel Essentials

Travel is good for the soul. And traveling during the holidays to a faraway magical oasis is a treat! I'm hoping to escape to Orlando, not so faraway but definitely contains a magical kingdom my niece loves. If everything goes according to plan we should be there for the last week of December (fingers crossed). 

When beaches and resorts are in my future, I tend to pack light - all I really need is a few denim shorts, a surplus of bikinis, and a cute kimono. Nope, that's a lie... I pack a little bit more than that, but not enough to check anything in - because let's be real, those check-in fees can be better spent on new reading materials and snacks. 

Since my goal is not to check-in baggage, I need to make sure my beauty needs are covered and following TSA's strict guidelines. In my arsenal: I always pack Caudalie's Beauty Elixir - it's a great little spray that refreshes the face after landing. I swear by this and am sure I've written about it here before. Even if you're not traveling you can use it on the daily whenever you need a quick pick-me-up. 

Next, I turn to Clinique's SPF 30 Face Sunscreen - it's crucial for me to get a sunscreen that wont increase my chances of breaking out while keeping me protected, and I find this works great for both needs. 

Because I am dealing with some unfortunate hormonal acne, I pack my bareSkin foundation serum with me, and believe me when I tell you - it makes my skin LOOK so much better!! It gives great coverage while still leaving me looking natural. 

Another favorite of mine that gets repacked over and over again is the Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, mainly because it's the best moisturizing lotion on the market and in this size. A little goes a long way when using this which is another #winwin in my book.

I'm not the best at staying asleep or getting enough sleep, but something about being on an airplane just lulls me to sleep - but before I do, I become that crazy lady and smear on Clinique's all about eyes cream. Planes are already dehydrating machines, this is my way of preventing of looking even more crazy.

Now, what's in your beauty travel bag that gets repacked time and time again?

Shop my winter beauty must-haves below:

Sakroots' Newest Print: Songbird

Yep, you heard correctly! The newest print from The Sak's sister brand, Sakroots, is called Songbird. The beautiful print from Brooklyn resident & painter, Josana Blue, will be available this upcoming spring.

Before we continue any further, I do want to point out that Sakroots encourages their shoppers to "Choose their Karma" every time they purchase a specific print from their artist circle. Gotta love it when shopping gives back! But let's get back to Songbird - this amazing print has a whimsical and musical theme featuring a peacock to symbolize how 'music and rhythm gives us infinite love." This rings true to me, certain songs will even bring me back to moments that were filled with so much emotion. 

Like what you're reading so far and curious what'll be in the collection? Well, I'm only carrying the wallet in the above snap, but keep in mind that like all the other artist circle prints the Songbird print will also be available on canvas bags, footwear, travel gear, and as a wristlet.

Now for the good part, the Songbird print will support the Harmony Project - a nonprofit dedicated to providing musical education to youth in low-income communities. How awesome it that. I think it's so important to be able to experience as much as you possibly can and learn as much as you can, and for some that is a little bit easier said than done. So, kudos to the organization for being there and kudos to Sakroots for recognizing this organization and sending donations their way.

In the meantime check out the current prints and charities Sakroots is supporting by visiting here. While you're there check out their gift guides as well, a few great gifts to be found!

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

Don't forget to enter last week's giveaway here!!

Let's Talk Tagspire + Fav Holiday Looks

Today's post is sponsored by Tagspire - thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! And as always, all (very honest) opinions are my own.

Living in New York City, one quickly learns that she needs a second-shift hustle. That need to hustle increases tenfold once November hits, because you know... Holidays are expensive. Don't worry, we will be talking all about my favorite holiday looks and trends soon, but first I'd like to show you an easy new way for you to earn fast cash. No, you don't have to be a blogger and yes, it's just as easy as pinning if not easier. 

It's so easy that all my favorite looks will be shown using the tagspire technology. 

Technology? WTEFF are you talking about?

Well, I'm glad you asked. 

Tagspire is very similar to Pinterest, the only difference is that you'll be able to monetize just about anything from fashion, beauty, home decor - there is no special requirements unlike other monetization programs. And it's pretty easy to get started: simply upload a photograph, place the pin on what you want to monetize (within the picture), and search for the product within tagspire's warehouse. Not only that, but you can also pin the pictures so they link to a youtube video (in case you want to seamlessly include a review or a haul video - the sky is your limit). 

My favorite part about this social commerce platform - the payout threshold is super low and set at $50. So every time you hit your $50 commission you're bank is going to high-five you. This time of year is actually a pretty good season to sign up and earn some extra cash since everyone and their mom are out shopping their hearts away. If this at all peaks your interest I encourage you to watch their short and entertaining video here.

To get a sense of how tagspire works and how it looks I'll be showcasing my favorite holiday looks. Feel free to explore and click on the blue dollar sign icons. 

Now for the fashion

....

Click to see this post on tagspire!

If it's too cold for dresses, wear black slacks with a crips white shirt and statement jewelry. This look totally reminds me of Audrey Hepburn which I especially love!

Click to see this post on tagspire!

A little black dress is always a safe bet, but color outside the line with reds and other punchy colors for a more festive look! If the chill is a bit much, I high suggest investing in fleece lined stockings - they are LIFESAVERS.

Click to see this post on tagspire!

Just because you're bundled up doesn't mean you have to give up the mini! Wear it out to the next party. I'm particularly loving blues (like the deep navy color above) for a fun way to break up all the black people tend to wear during the colder months.

Let me know if you decide to sign up, leave your username in the comments below and I'll follow you back! You can find my page here.

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

www.tagspire.com