Meet NYC Designer: CHOCHENG

December 12, 2016

This past weekend I spent some time categorizing my blog – it’s honestly a never-ending process thanks to the eight years I’ve spent writing in this corner of the Internet. It’s not all bad since it does feel like a stroll down memory lane, but I did notice how I haven’t mentioned any Made in NYC designers or businesses.

Figured today would be a great day to break the ice with Chocheng Char’s line, CHOCHENG.

Char got his start at Parsons School of Design and shortly after launched his womenswear label in 2005. Throughout the years he’s been known for his luxurious signature tailored jackets in heritage fabrics. If this peaks your interest make sure to stop by his flagship shop on 838 Madison Avenue in New York City.

He recently presented his AW16 collection which features dresses, pant suits, and jackets in his trademark tweed style. The garments are bespoke following traditional Savile Row tailoring techniques (which basically means you’ll be getting a piece so fitted since there isn’t a use of standardized patterns). If that isn’t your steez, there are also ready-to-wear pieces.

Char’s close attention to detail and fabrics provides a modern, fresh aesthetic that will appeal to the most discerning clientele. Below are my favorites from the recent collection.

Learn more about CHOCHENG:
www.chocheng.com

Four Tips to Help Fight Off Flu Season

December 5, 2016

Today's shop has been sponsored by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible!
#TeaProudly #CollectiveBias

It's the most wonderful time of the year. It's also the most stressful time of the year. With lots of holiday shopping, year-end work projects coming to a close, and climate change it's a constant struggle to do it all while still feeling our best.

And the absolute last thing anyone needs is to catch a cold or worse, come down with the flu. I don't know about you guys, but when I get sick I get SICK. Which is why I'm sharing five tips that have helped me ward off germs during this tricky time.

1. Start Your Day with I Love Lemon

Start your day with a warm cup of Bigelow's I Love Lemon. The hot lemon water will help to detoxify and hydrate your body. On days I'm feeling under the weather, the next magical ingredient is honey. A little drop goes a long way. This combo together creates the perfect formula for fighting off a cold. While you're sipping on tea, take this moment to warm up on a chilly day and do something small or relaxing for yourself - like reading your favorite blogs (wink).

You can find Bigelow's Tea at your local Walmart. They're honestly one of my favorite brands since their teas are kept in foil packaging for optimal freshness. Their company is also based in the states which make me able to tea proudly.

2. Stay Rested
Easier said than done during the holidays, but it's SO GOOD for you. Our bodies rebuild themselves only when we sleep. If you feel something coming on aim to sleep in for at least eight hours.

3. Sweat it Out
Sweating out the toxins really does help. Not only that, but it'll help you feel more energized and less stressed. You can head here to read how I get out the door and to my classes in the AM. If you can't afford a gym or a class, the next best thing is bundling up and heading outdoors or doing a TV workout. All you need is 30 minutes of cardio and you're good.

4. Meditate the Stress Away
Like I said, this is one of the most stressful times of the year. Have you ever noticed how prone we become to illness when we're most stressed? Well, meditating really does help to melt the stress away and keep us sane when we need it most. As an added bonus, it'll help add clarity to the clutter of our lives.

Will you be incorporating Bigelow Tea into your winter routine? It's honestly such a toasty way to relax during the season. Be sure to follow them for the latest news and tips on Facebook and Twitter!

Masking Mondays: A New Way to Fight Acne

November 21, 2016

Please raise your hand if you've been personally affected by stress acne? Yep. Me too.

It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but all the shopping, eating, and traveling can leave me feeling depleted. As much as I try to stay zen, it's pretty hard and becomes apparent in the form of stress acne. Not a cute look since we all know cameras go into overdrive during the last few months of the year. So I'm super pumped to try out a new innovative product from Neutrogena!

Let's backtrack a little bit first. Remember a while back how celebrities were posting selfies wearing these insanely pricey white UV masks? Oh, how I lusted for a moment to be able to wear one! But without unlimited funds that moment seemed highly unlikely. (For reference, treatment could cost up to $500).

Enter Neutrogena® Light Therapy Acne Mask. It's like they heard me pining for an affordable version that would still offer me all the amazing benefits of UV masking. They made their patented Therapy Acne Mask readily accessible at Walmart's acne aisle so there's no need to save up or visit a dermatologist to get clear skin. You can do it all from the comfort of your home.

Now you're probably wondering what comes in every box?

Glad you asked! Each Neutrogena® Light Therapy Acne Mask box comes with the patented mask (which is chemical-free and FDA cleared) and a 1 month supply mask activator (the refill which you'll need to purchase monthly at $14.97). While you're in the aisle you should also pick up Clean & Clear® Makeup Dissolving Facial Cleansing Wipes. You'll want to use the mask only after cleansing your face for the best results.

How the mask works is that it targets and kills bacteria with light instead of harsh chemicals and leaves behind glowing skin instead. There are also two modes of action when using - a blue and red light. The blue light kills 99% of acne-causing bacteria and the red light reduces inflammation caused by acne.

The mask is pretty easy to use and forces you to sit and relax (me-time is always a good time).
- Clean your face of makeup, sweat, and debris using Clean & Clear® Makeup Dissolving Facial Cleansing Wipes
- Simply put on the mask
- Flip on the activator
- Enjoy your me-time for 10 minutes

*The Activator shown here has a handy countdown indicator and keeps track of how many uses you have left. PLUS, it keep track of your 10-minute sessions when in use. Cool right!*

The mask is lightweight so if you rather wear it while doing an errand (washing dishes anyone?) - you can.

Results begin in a little as 1-week, so I'm taking the Neutrogena challenge and using this mask during the busiest time of the year for the next 30 days. I'll do a before and after image so you guys can see how the mask kept me acne-free.

Challenges are better in groups, so why not do it with me? Pick up the Neutrogena® Light Therapy Acne Mask at your local Walmart and keep me posted on your progress.