2014 Emmy Awards/VMAs... My Favorites

Hola,

It's been a long while my fellow fashionistas. I've been off the blog radar for about four months. I know, I know, I've been slacking way too much and it's just unacceptable. No excuses, however, I have been working on other major things that can very well lead me to the beginnings of my dream coming true so stay tuned for more news on that in the coming weeks/months.

The past two days have been pretty exciting with the 2014 VMAs and the 2014 Emmy Awards back to back. Those of us who are wild about style were pretty much in fashion heaven. I figured what better way to get back to blogging than with my favorite picks from both award shows. While there were some instant favorites, I have to say that I had to really go through many pictures to make some other choices because the ladies went all out with the style this year. It was pretty tough to make a final decision. This being the case, I decided to just list my best dressed choices and leave the worst out of the equation. Why not come back after four months with only positive vibes? :)

On that note, let's get started my loves. Below are my picks in no particular order...

2014 EMMY AWARDS BEST DRESSED:

Camila Alves in Zuhair Murad. The moment I saw her I was wowed. This sheer dress is stunning and it shows off Camila's body gorgeously. I love that she slicked her dark hair back and kept the accessories simple and minimal so as not to take anything away from the dress. 

Lizzy Caplan in Donna Karan Atelier. If I were going to choose my picks in order, I would definitely pick this as my #1 best dressed. Everything about this cut is beautiful. The cut out back, the bodice, and can we talk about the white train flowing gorgeously to contrast the black. Her hair and makeup complement the dress perfectly. I had to post two photos so as to show how marvelous the back of this dress it.

Allison Williams in Giambattista Valli Couture. I have to say that the yellow band on this gown won me over. If you know me well, you know that yellow is my favorite color. I adore how the yellow adds that fabulous pop to the black and white of this gown. Allison looks so lovely. The bodice is beautiful and she always carries herself with such elegance. I love this!

Sarah Hyland in Christian Siriano. Simply fabulous! I LOVE the cropped top with the full skirt. Finally Sarah wore something that makes her look young and carefree while elegant and sexy at the same time. Her hair and makeup are flawless. This would be my second best dress of the Emmy night. 

January Jones in Prabal Gurung. Oh. My. God! A dress with pockets! One of my weaknesses! This dress is spectacular. The color, the cut, the back is simply fabulous, did I already mention the pockets? LOVE! The strappy Christian Louboutin heels are the perfect match. I have to say, however, I was not crazy about her hairstyle. If it had been a bit cleaner, I think it would have complemented the ensemble a tad more. This dress would round up my top three. :)

Sofia Vergara in Roberto Cavalli. My girl! Don't judge me for somehow always including Sofia in my best dressed lists. I love her. Her body is amazing, her hair is gorgeous, and her fun personality just completes everything. This white dress is incredibly sexy on her. It shows off her curves to perfection. I loved her straighter than curled hair, minimal jewelry and her red lips add that perfect pop. Sofia can do no wrong in my eyes. ;)

...And now for my 2014 VMA BEST DRESSED: 

Jennifer Lopez in Charbel Zoe. THIS. IS. IT.! I can be truthful and admit that after seeing this woman on the red carpet, there were no others that could come even close. Jennifer looks stunning, beautiful, sexy, elegant... OMG the list can go on. This silver sequin dress with multiple, strategically placed cut-outs is just EVERYTHING. Her body is jaw-dropping and it is accentuated beautifully. The shoes are perfect, her hair and makeup are perfection, and even her skin has that sun-kissed glow to it. Simply magnificent! JLO rocked it.

~ THE END ~

There you have it my loves. If the remaining award shows are anything like this year's Emmys, I will have a very hard time picking my favorites because, again, the ladies brought it this year. It thrilled me to see so many hits and very few misses. What do you all think? Do you agree with my choices? If you watched the red carpets, please join me in conversation and let me know what you think. Who were your favorites? Who do you think missed the mark? You all should remember the drill... feel free to comment respectfully below and let's discuss. Go! #engage

Until next time...

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

DIY Manicure - Get Creative #2

Hola,

How goes it my fellow fashionistas? How has this lovely day treated you? It was rather cold in New York City but other than that, for me it was a pretty good day.

I have to tell you that I loved writing my last post "DIY Manicure - Get Creative," I'm thinking I'm going to do more of these as I do more manicures this summer. I'm ecstatic to let you all know that last week's mani with the pretty glitter lasted SEVEN days. Yes, that's a record for me. I only had to touch it up once but other than that, the manicure lasted until yesterday. Woop! :)

So after removing the polish last night, I figured I'd continue the creativity trend. I'm elated to say that the outcome was once again fabulous. So without further ado, check it out...

Note: I know last week I listed some of the products I use as far as strengtheners and top coats so I've included photos of these below as well in case you'd like to purchase them. Here goes:

I call it my "Blue Galaxy" manicure:

^^^

Rings: Purchased at H&M

Note: I simply adore the mid-finger ring look for this summer. It takes a bit of getting used because it feels like their falling off your finger. However, once you do get used to them, they give your hands and mani a very pretty and delicate look. I always go with gold because it goes better with my skin tone, but you can try silver as well. Whenever I get a manicure, I love wearing rings to spice up the look.

^^^

A Closer Look

Below are the products I used to get this look:

^^^

"Millionails" base coat and nail strengthener by: Essie

* I just starting using this product so I will let you all know how good it is as far as strengthening goes in a future post. When I touched up my mani, I added another coat of this before applying the top coat.

^^^

Nail Color: "Blue Bombshell #335" by: Maybelline

* Needless to say apply two coats. This color is a bit on the matte side so you can use it either way, with or without the top coat for added shine. I went with the shine this time because of the next product I used...

^^^

Confetti Polish in "Pixel Perfect" by: Sally Hansen's Xtreme Wear line

* I happened to see this polish at Duane Reade one day and scooped it up. It's pretty fantastic. When applied over the right color, it gives your polish a very pretty and out of this world look (literally, hence the reason I call it "blue galaxy"). This polish was very easy to apply and all the little assorted confetti is easily scooped with the brush. With the blue, it reminds me of another galaxy with stars and dust all around. I love it! :)

^^^

Top Coat and Shine "Good To Go" by: Essie

* I adore this top coat. Not only does it add shine and seals the polish, but it also dries in an instant. I don't know about you, but once I'm done polishing my nails, it's really hard for me to stay still until they dry. I end up smudging at least one nail - Grrrr. This product is my savior. It dries instantly. Try it and give me feedback.

~ The End ~

So there you go my sweethearts. This week's manicure was another hit with the girls and I am beyond in love with it. I'm hoping that this one lasts just as or almost as long as last week's. I will let you know in my next "Get Creative" post. Well, what do you all think? Like it or nah? Will you try this look? Is it easy for you to get creative with your manicures or do you prefer to go to the nail salon? Also, are you all feeling the "mid-finger" ring look this season? Have you tried it? ... You all know the deal, comment below and give me your feedback or suggestions on some creative looks that you'd like to see me try. This will be fun but you have to click "comment" and let me know. Let's chat, share, debate... whatever you'd like to do, I'm game. Go! #engage

As always, thank you for stopping by my "Open Closet."

Hasta Luego,

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

DIY Manicure - Get Creative

Hola,

Happy Friday night my loves! I hope that wherever you are and whatever you're doing, that you're having a fabulous time. I've chosen to stay in tonight as I try and alternate my weekends between going out and staying in. Tonight it's the latter.

Since I'm in, I figured I'd write a quick random post...

So on Tuesday night I decided to do my own manicure. I usually do them myself as I feel I do a much better job than when I have them done at the nail salon. The only difference is that I don't get the pampering I would get when someone else is massaging my hands, etc. Another reason I do them myself is because for whatever reason, when I have them done at the salon, the color starts chipping the very next day and that just gets on ALL my nerves! Grrrr! However, lately I have been taking the easy road and just having my nails done at the salon. This is out of pure laziness and impatience and nothing else.

Now back to Tuesday night... I was supposed to attend an event the following evening and so I threw all laziness out the window and got right down to it. I had recently bought a new nail color by Essie and several weeks ago I purchased the cutest glitter by OPI. I figured it was time to make use of both. BTW, I adore adding glitter to my manicures. I think glitter is fun, cute, girly and eye-catching. Anyway, I wanted to share the outcome as I've gotten many compliments from my "creativeness." ;) ...Check it:

I pretty much go through the whole process myself.

1. File nails (usually square shaped).
2. Cut any hang nails and excess dry skin.
3. Soak in warm water (I add a few drops of lemon juice to strengthen nails)
4. Push back cuticles (never cut).
5. Thoroughly wash my hands and scrub off any excess dead skin.
6. Apply lotion.
7. Dab a Q-tip with some nail polish remover (without acetone) and swipe each nail to remove excess oils.
8. Ready to polish...

^^^

- Base coat: "Millionails" - by: Essie (Strengthens nails)

- Nail Color: "After School Boy Blazer" - by: Essie (two coats)

- Glitter: "Be Awesome" - by: Nicole by OPI

- Top Coat: "Good To Go" - by: Essie (Shines, Dries Super Quick, Prolongs Polish)

- Rings: Purchased at H&M

^^^

A Closer Look

Above is a closer look. Just so you know, this glitter was a bit hard to scoop out of the bottle which in a way made it better to strategically place them on my nails. I could only get about two or three on the brush at a time so that kind of helped for me to place them around the nail. Allow this coat to dry before applying the top coat to seal the color. My nails are still intact on day three. Usually by now they've started to chip.

So there you have it ladies... What do you think? I'm in love with this look and I think I will try it again next time. How creative do you get with your nails? I tend to do all sorts of designs. Glitter, stripes, two different shades, polka dots and one time I even did cute little flowers. It takes time and practice but it's so much fun and kind of relaxing for me. The other thing is that I LOVE bright colors especially in the spring and summer months. Do you ever do your own nails or do you prefer going to a nail salon? If you go to the salon, do you ask your manicurist to get creative or do you just polish and go? You all know the deal... comment below and let's share our fabulousness with each other. I'd love to hear your routine and/or how creative you get nowadays with all the fun ideas for fun and pretty manis. Go ahead comment below. Go! #engage

As always, thank you for stopping my "Open Closet."

Hasta Luego,

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

Look Book #2 - My Latest Finds...

Hola,

What's going on my fellow fashionistas? How's life treating you these days? Can you believe it's already April? Sheesh! I need for time to slow down just a little bit because I have so much to do, or maybe I just need to pick up my pace... ;)

So I hope everyone has already read my last post "Spa Time... How to DIY At Home" and that you even tried some of the recipes I shared. They really are super easy and affordable so you should at least try a couple. If you haven't checked out the recipes yet, go on over after reading this post and let me know what you think. I plan on doing more DIY posts in the future so if you liked that one, stay tuned for more. If you have any that you'd like to share, comment them or email me and I will include them in my next series and give you a shout out.

Alrighty then, I know I'm really behind in my "Look Book" series and I figured now would be the perfect time to introduce the second installment. I've actually made some really cute, fabulous and cool purchases in the last few months. However, I'll only post a few as most of what I bought was for winter wear. I did buy some adorable and affordable accessories so get ready for some cuteness. If you don't know the "Look Book" drill, the idea is to post photos, descriptions, prices, brand names (if any), and links to a website if available so you can go and perhaps do some shopping yourself. Now let's get started my loves!

~ ~ ~

So a few weeks ago I had a couple doctor appointments scheduled and I took the day off to make traveling to and from easier. My first appointment was in the city and when I was done, I had enough time to check out what was new at TJ Maxx which is where I found this beauty...

The "Jazzy Geos Satchel" by Anne Klein. At TJ Maxx for $49.99 (original price was $89.99). This vibrant blue was what first caught my eye being that it's already spring plus given my love affair with bright colors, how could this bag not be mine. My one and only con is that the bag does not have enough outside pockets. I like these pockets for easy access to my metrocard, office key card, tissues, etc. Other than that, I adore it. It's very comfortable, and it does have a slit pocket on the outer backside where I can fit my metrocard. I've made it work. The lining is black with white polka dots which I find simply adorable. It also includes a strap which I've attached and shorten to the perfect length. I usually just carry it on my elbow because that's the "stylish" way of carry bags these days. So if you like it, check out the link:

http://www.anneklein.com/Jazzy-Geo-Satchel/91333344,default,pd.html?variantSizeClass=&variantColor=JJ169MM&cgid=90923851&prefn1=catalog-id&prefv1=anneklein-catalog

Note: The above link is to the Anne Klein website as I've combed TJ Maxx' and the bag seems to not be available online. However, you can go the Anne Klein site and check out the other colors that are available or visit your local TJ Maxx store. 

~ ~ ~

So for the longest time I've wanted a pair of cowboy boots. I think they are so cute and they go great with summer dresses and shorts. I never really got around to shopping for them because I have this issue that all my boots have to be fitted around my calf since I have slim legs. Most of my boots are taken in for this reason but obviously, you cannot take cowboy boots in because of their shape. Anyway, my lovely friend Gretchen put me on to these cuties below... She's quite the expert as she's been riding horses for like forever. She promised that they would fit perfectly around my calves - not completely fitted but not too wide and she was right.

The Ariat Magnolia Sunflower Stitch Cowgirl Boot in brown. Purchased online at Sheplers. Discount price of $149. The original price is $169.99. I have yet to wear them because we've had such awful winter weather in New York City and I didn't want to ruin them. I do plan on wearing them soon with jeans, maybe with a cute summer dress and perhaps throw all caution to the winds, and wear them with some shorts this summer. Will keep you posted. ;)

The link to the boots is below:

http://www.sheplers.com/Ariat-Magnolia-Sunflower-Stitch-Cowgirl-Boots-Medium-Toe/18056.pro?parentCategoryId=448&categoryId=459&subCategoryId=460

~ ~ ~

I'm going to guess that by now, you all know that I adore over-sized watches. I have several but I really wanted a rose gold watch. I found the perfect one online at my favorite store Express. Again, I got it on sale with a discount so try to grab one of the many sales at Express if you'd like to buy.

The "Multi-Function Watch" in Rose Gold. Purchased online at Express. Price: $88.00. The original price is: $148. The color is so lovely and it goes with anything you wear whether it's casual or dressy. It's a bit large on the wrist, well at least on mine because I have the wrist size of a toddler LOL. I had to re-size it which by the way, I learned how to do it myself. Hmm, that could be another DIY blog post though ;). Anyway before I continue to digress, the watch is still available online along with other beauties so go ahead and click on the link below to have a look. Simply said, this watch is gorgeous!

Check it out here:

http://www.express.com/clothing/multitofunction+watch+to+rose+gold/pro/4521401/cat410001

~ ~ ~

I purchased this flirty skirt below at Express as well. I actually picked it up on the very last day of 2013 during one of their best sales ever. The original price was $59.90 and I think I only paid about $30 for it. It's no longer available but it's so cute that I still wanted to include it. This style is great for the summer months to wear with a sexy pair of heeled or flat sandals. It will go great with a dress shirt for work or a tank top/t-shirt for a more casual setting. Plus my favorite thing about this skirt is that it has side pockets!! Oh the loveliness and what a great surprise for me! I love dresses and skirts with pockets.

~ ~ ~

Accessories are in my top five must haves. They undeniably add flair to any outfit whether casual or dressy. There's a store in New York City called "Afaze" which I love. They have walls of costume jewelry at great prices. I mean let's face it, until we can all afford to go all out on diamonds, rubies and such, costume jewelry will have to do. So a few weeks ago I went in to check out what they had and found this cute little set. A little bling, gold and chains cannot steer you wrong. They were a hit with my girls and the price was perfect: $5.95/set. Not available online.

~ ~ ~

So let's go back to boots... Every time it would rain, I'd say to myself "AnnaCris, you HAVE to buy a pair of rain boots." The thing was I didn't want just the same old boots I saw everyone wearing. I wanted something stylish, cute and different and I finally found them. Check out these beauties...

The "Everham Rain Boot" by Sperry Top Sider. Purchased online at Zappos. Price: $60. How fabulous and stylish are these boots? They're waterproof, with a micro fleece lining to keep your legs warm. The great part is that the fleece is not too heavy so you can get away with wearing them during a rainy spring/summer day. The checkered shaft is made of a canvas like material that also remains dry and the even better part is that they fit perfect around my calves! I get so many compliments when I wear them and one of the ladies at my cousin's salon went as far as to buy a pair for herself. :) #flattered

Unfortunately, the boots are no longer available at Zappos, but they are at Sperry Top Sider for $64.99. Check them out at the link below:

http://www.sperrytopsider.com/en/everham-rain-boot/10576W.html?dwvar_10576W_color=9599572#cgid=women-shoes-wet-weather&start=6

~ ~ ~

Hat's and scarves are also on my top five. These days I've a soft spot for "slouchy hats." They are so cute and comfy. The same goes for "infinity scarves." I love them in bold and bright colors as well as prints as seen below. Spring is the perfect time for both. Be cautious not to choose fleece or wool material as these will be too warm for the weather.

I purchased both items at a store called Joyce Leslie. They're similar to Forever 21 in prices and cuteness. The price for both items: $8. A colorful or neutral slouchy hat and a bright scarf both go great on a casual, kind of windy spring day. You can wear either or both if you're wearing jeans and a light jacket. I included a photo of two different ways I wear my favorite hat to give you a sense... Website was not available.

~ ~ ~

This little number is all kinds of cute. I purchased the flirty skirt at H&M several months ago so it's probably no longer available. This skirt is great for the warm weather months. The mix of dark, light and bright colors of the material make it easy to pair with any solid colored top. It will look great with a tank top or even a t-shirt during the summer. The price in store: $29.95.

The black short-sleeved crop sweater has no buttons and is perfect to wear over a maxi dress or a tank top during the summer months. I found this at Joyce Leslie as well. The price: $16.

~ ~ ~

In one of my previous posts, I mentioned that I had traveled to Colorado for work back in February. While at this fabulous hotel called the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, I found these adorable pair of wedge booties by TOMS at a cute little shoe boutique and I just had to buy them!

The "Suede Desert Wedge" in Chestnut has a 2 3/4 heel and has a cute lace up front. Available online at TOMS. Price: $89. I wore them that same night to a dinner and then drinks and fun until the wee hours, and I must say that these are one of the most comfortable pair of shoes I've worn in a while. Not to mention that these are my first pair of TOMS shoes, and I have now participated in the "One for One" program where when you buy a pair of shoes, you are also helping to improve the health, education and well-being of a child.

Go ahead and click on the link below to check them out. You'll have a better photo as I could not get the right light to enhance the color of the shoes:

http://www.toms.com/womens/shoes/wedges/chestnut-suede-women-s-desert-wedges/s

~ ~ ~

Let's continue with the Colorado theme... I found this beauty in a quaint little shop in Breckenridge, Colorado. As you can see, I lean towards coppery, gold and/or rose colored metals as they complement my skin tone. This store had tons of cute jewelry, hats, socks, scarves, etc. I couldn't decide what to buy, but I definitely wanted this bracelet. It goes with everything since it's a neutral metal with brown leather straps. I've also gotten plenty of compliments about this item. I must visit Colorado again as it's an incredibly beautiful state! The price of the bracelet was: $10.

~ ~ ~

Of course I couldn't go without buying at least one pair of jeans. The "Super Skinny Super Low" Jean. Purchased at H&M. Price: $29.95. I actually bought three different pairs, but these turned out to be my favorite. I usually buy most of my jeans at either Express or Guess because since I'm so slim, I need something that will fit to a tee and enhance my tiny curves. You know some of us slim ladies do have cute little butts and some small curves too ;). Both Express and Guess seem to fit all my jeans needs to perfection. This time, however, since I've been on a strict budget I went out on a limb and bought all three pairs at H&M. The prices were very affordable (19.95-29.95). I was not disappointed. Wow! The fit is perfection all around. The color is dark denim blue which I love and also the super low rise slim fit is fabulous.

Click the link below to check them out:

http://www.hm.com/us/product/00978?article=00978-A

~ ~ ~

I'm a true fan of stripes. Mostly thin stripes if I have to choose. This knit skirt is the cutest thing. I purchased it at H&M along with the jeans. The stripes are navy blue and white. I wore this to work the other day with a pair of black boots, dark tights and a white top. This skirt will also work during spring and summer paired with a tank top, fitted t-shirt or for the office, a short sleeved blouse. Price in store: $5.95. Not available online.

~ ~ ~

In keeping with the H&M theme, I picked these up as well. Yep, I'm on a budget but trust me that I got a good sale and did not, by any means, break my bank. These cute little rings need no caption. Price in store: $2.95 - $5.95. Not available online.

~ ~ ~

Last but certainly not least... These wonderful, amazing and super comfy UGGS are to die for! I know winter is over, but I had to include these because they are just so delightful.  The "Ugg Sunburst Tall Boot." Purchased online at Victoria's Secret. Price: $295 (same price as on the UGG website). I have to admit that I did break the bank with these, but I deserve to splurge once in a while. With fur trim on the inside all the way into the foot area, these boots are the coziest, sweetest things ever made. My feet were never cold during all the freezing winter days in New York City. I adore these boots with my heart and soul. They make me feel so warm and fuzzy. My heart is hurting at the thought of not being able to wear them until winter returns. :)

Note: The boots run a bit large so I would buy a size smaller than your usual. Also, I checked both the Victoria's Secret and UGG websites, and could not find them so they may no longer be available. :( or you'll have to wait until fall or winter to see if they re-stock.

... The End ...

Phew! Can we say shopping spree? I came home with plenty of goodies in the past few months and these were just a few of them. The fun part was that I not only shopped in New York City, but I also traveled and did some more shopping. I was quite busy but also impressed that I did not break my budget (well minus the UGG boots, but I couldn't resist). I'm looking forward to posting "Look Book #3" as that will mean that I'll have to hit the stores again pretty soon. ;)

So there you have it my loves. I hope you enjoyed part two of the "Look Book" series. Feel free to click on any of the links and visit the stores. Even if you're not interested in what I've purchased, you can browse around any of the sites and maybe see something that you'd prefer. If you do, you know the deal... come back and share. Otherwise, if you have anything you'd like to share, questions about my purchases, etc., please comment below and let's chat about our fabulousness. Go! #engage

As always, thank you for stopping by my "Open Closet."

Hasta Luego...

Gracias,
AnnaCris <3

Spa Time... How To DIY At Home

Hola,

Well hello there my fellow fashionistas. How's life treating you these days? If you're reading this post, I hope all is good and fabulous. If it's not, my wish for you is that this post will brighten your day even if it's just a little.

So did you all read my one year anniversary post? You know the one where I listed my fifteen top favorite designers - "The Best Of The Best... Favorite Designers." If you haven't already done so, please visit that post after you read this one of course, and let me know what you think of my choices. I cannot believe it's already been a whole year since I started this blog. It's been fun which is exactly what I was looking for when I started on this adventure. I hope you continue to follow and converse with me, and if it's not too much to ask, please look over to your right, you may have to scroll down just a little bit and click on the blue button that says "join this site." If you have a Google, Twitter, Yahoo or even an Aim account, you can enter your info and tadaa... you'd now be a loyal follower. I promise you will not get any emails from me unless you subscribe to this blog which is a whole different deal. Come on gals and guys, let's make this adventure official. :)

Tonight I decided to switch from a fashion post to a "beauty" post and give you some really cool recipes on how to have your very own spa day or night at home. I mean who doesn't love to pamper themselves and I know it's not the same as having someone pamper you, but sometimes the budget calls for a "do it yourself" kind of moment or maybe you'd like to have a girls spa night. How fun would that be... hmmm! (note to my girls *hint hint*). Or... maybe it's just you and your man. If he would indulge in this kind of pampering, you can try it with him and who knows where the night will lead... hmmm! *wink wink*.

So a number of years ago I bought this wonderful book called "Natural Beauty at Home" by Janice Cox. Turns out it was the best $12 I've ever spent (well one of the best for sure). The book contains over 200 recipes for body, bath and hair. Now I'm certainly not going to list all 200 but just a few of my favorites which I'm sure Janice won't mind my sharing. I've also made up a few of my own along the way so I hope you'll try them as well. The majority of the ingredients in these recipes can be found in your kitchen or you can buy them at your local drugstore or supermarket. I chose the easiest so that you'll have no problems finding the ingredients you'll need. Shall we begin? Get your notebooks out or your cell phones, whichever is more accommodating so you can take notes...

"DIY" HOME SPA RECIPES

Recipes from the book "Natural Beauty at Home" by Janice Cox:

CLEANSERS AND SCRUBS

SUGAR SCRUB
1 teaspoon sugar
soap and water
juice of 1/2 lemon

While washing your face with soap, add a teaspoon of sugar to the lather and massage gently into your skin. Rinse your skin with a mixture of equal parts lemon juice and water. Then rinse with clear, cool water and pat dry.

Sugar makes a good abrasive skin scrub and is a popular treatment in many health spas and beauty salons. I love this scrub. I have very sensitive skin and this does not irritate at all. Make sure to use the equal parts lemon juice and water or else your skin will stay a bit sticky.

ALL-PURPOSE HONEY CLEANSER
2 tablespoons liquid soap
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup rosewater (or distilled water works)

Stir all ingredients. Make sure not to beat as this will cause the soap to foam. Pour mixture into a container. To use: Pour a small amount in your palm and massage gently into your skin. Rinse thoroughly. You can use this on your face and body. I usually use this as a body cleanser as it leaves you soft all over.

FACIAL TREATMENTS

SWISS MILKMAID MASK
1/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup powdered milk or powdered buttermilk

Mix both ingredients to form a smooth paste and spread an even layer over your face and neck. Leave the mask on until dry (for about 15 to 20 minutes). Rinse off with cool water. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator.

This is one of my favorite masks. Not only does it leave your skin smooth and glowing but it also lightens any dark spots on your skin. I try to do it at least twice a month or more if  possible.

COUNTRY GARDEN MASK

1/4 cup grated carrots
1 1/2 teaspoons mayonnaise

Mix ingredients and spread on your face. Leave on for 15-20 minutes then rinse with tepid water. Note: this mask will remain moist on your face so don't worry about waiting for it to dry.

This mask is awesome because it hydrates the skin and helps clear away dead skin cells.


BEAUTY QUEEN MASK
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon almond oil
1 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Spread on your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

This mask is luxurious. I love it! It moisturizes your skin leaving it so soft and glowing. It's great if you have dry, flaky skin. Also, honey has natural antiseptic properties that can help regenerate damaged skin tissues. All in all, this mask does wonders for your skin. Try it and let me know how you like it...

So the above recipes are just a few of my favorites by Janice Cox. I'm sure you can purchase the book online and find many more. The book has recipes for lotions, fragrances, aromatherapy, lip and nail treatments. It's just full of fabulous information for having fun at home.

~ ~ ~

Next I'm going to list a few of my own personal regiments that I feel are fantastic for beautiful skin...

A bunch of years ago, I started getting acne on my forehead and my cheeks. I don't know what caused it but all I knew was that I had to get rid of it pronto! I tried many products and found one that worked for me called AcneFree. However, my skin still looked damaged and with some dark spots. I knew that clay powder could help restore the skin but had never tried it. Well... I went on a mission to find some. I couldn't find any at my local stores so I found this place online www.mountainroseherbs.com that sells fresh organic herbs and hit the jackpot. They sell everything from organic herbs and spices, teas, aromatherapy and essential oils, butters, clay, cosmetic salts (ahem, dead sea salt anyone?), bath and body care, home and garden, health care products (elixirs, capsules, herbal oils, salves). You name it, they've got it and all their products are fresh and natural. So I jumped on board and purchased two clay products and instantly became a fan. Check them out:

FACIAL TREATMENTS

FRENCH GREEN CLAY - This is the clay that cured my skin woes. This clay, per the description on Mountain Rose Herbs' site, has enormous absorbent powers. It literally drinks oils, toxic substances, and impurities from  your skin. It's toning action stimulates the skin by bringing fresh blood to damaged skin cells, revitalizing the complexion and tightening pores. French Green Clay is marvelous for helping to clear problem skin... Bingo! I started using this mask on a weekly basis and saw results by week three. My skin started clearing up and looking healthy. I had never been happier. My skin has been clear for years now but til this day, I still love using this mask just because.

HOW TO USE: Pour some powder into a bowl and mix with warm distilled water until you make a smooth paste. Apply to your face and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Rinse with  warm water then with cold to close your pores. Apply moisturizer afterward.


RHASSOUL CLAY - I also purchased this clay just because the description sounded delightful and it did not disappoint. Mountain Rose Herbs describes this clay as a truly exquisite spa quality clay. It is a mineral rich clay and blends well with water for a smooth application. The best spas across the globe utilize the toning and enriching benefits offered by Rhassoul. It is rich in silica, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and sodium content making it one of the finest treasures for pampering your skin.

Well then... How could I NOT try this. The description is 100% accurate. I adore this clay for the simple fact that when I rinse my face, you can instantly tell that all the impurities have been lifted from your skin and it is left glowing and looking fresh and clean. You should definitely try this one.

HOW TO USE: Pour some powder into a bowl and mix with warm distilled water until you make a smooth paste. Apply to your face and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Rinse with  warm water then with cold to close your pores. Apply moisturizer afterward.

BATH AND BODY

I'm one of those that take forever in the shower. My mom always tells me that I should've been a fish. I think long showers are marvelous. I also think exfoliating your body at least twice a month is a must. Below is my DIY recipe for when my budget does not allow me to splurge on the more expensive products:

BODY EXFOLIATOR:
1 cup of sugar
johnson's baby oil

Pour some baby oil over the sugar. Not too much just enough to lightly saturate the sugar. Scrub this mix all over your body in a circular motion then rinse. You can lather up after to remove excess oil.

You will thank me! This will leave your entire body softer than a baby's butt and smelling wonderful. You don't even have to moisturize after because the baby oil will have already taken care of that.


DE-TOX BATH:
48 oz hydrogen peroxide
1 cup epsom salt
2 tablespoons ground ginger

Fill your tub with hot water, only as hot as you can take it. Add all the ingredients above. Soak in this bath for 20-30 minutes.

I actually found this recipe on Pinterest one night and I've already tried it twice. It works wonders. This is excellent for when you feel yourself catching a cold or you just want to detox your body. From the moment you get into your tub, you will begin sweating out toxins. Needless to say if you can stay in for 30 minutes, it would be great. Once I got out, I showered and was still sweating... When I left the bathroom, I was STILL sweating... LOL, this bath is no joke but you can feel the difference. I ended up taking a long nap after I tried it the first time and woke up feeling great. Plus, that cold that was trying to catch me, was blown away. Haa So there!


MOISTURIZER - If for whatever reason you ever run out of lotion, after you shower, do not dry your skin. Instead rub baby oil over your wet skin and tadaa... instant moisturizer. Again, this will leave your skin super smooth.

My last recipe is a simple at home lip softener:

LIP SOFTENER - Spread vaseline or any type of oil (vitamin E or coconut oil are my favorites), take a soft hand towel and wetting with hot water, lightly rub the vaseline or oil into your lips with the wet towel in circular motions. This will soften your lips and remove and dry skin. If your lips are cracked, do not try this. Instead just dab vitamin E oil over your lips and repeat until they heal. I also like to dab coconut oil on my lips at bedtime. When you wake up, your lips will be soft as butter and will not get dry throughout the day.

~ ~ ~

So there you go my loves. I hope you will schedule a fun night on your own, with your girls or even with your significant other and try out these recipes. Don't forget to lay back, relax, close your eyes and let these recipes do their job. Spas are all about helping you relax, find your calm and refresh. I mean if you're going to do it at home, you might as well do it all the way. Get those fluffy bathrobes out and prepare for a wonderful, relaxing time. It can be a very fun night and perhaps you can add your own personal touches to these recipes to make them your own.

Please note that I've tried out these recipes myself. I have very sensitive skin and allergies and I have to say that none of these recipes caused any problems. I would ask that you first test these out on a small spot to see of you don't react to them before applying to your entire skin. Everyone is different and you may have allergies to eggs, dairy products, etc so please be aware of these issues before using.

For those of you who do try them out, please come back and share your experiences and let us all know how your at home spa day or night worked out for you. I would love to hear your stories. Also, if you have any DIY recipes that you'd like to share, please feel free to do so. I just may do a "part two" post with more fun ideas and I will certainly give you a shout out. We should all support and help each other to be and look as fabulous as possible. Don't forget to click on the Mountain Rose Herbs link to check out that awesome site. So you all know the drill, come back and comment below and let us know the outcome of this adventure. I look forward to reading your comments. Go! #engage

Until next time...

Gracias,
AnnaCris <3