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In Review | March – ish

Published by lauren

I know, I know, it says March up there and it’s clearly the middle of April. What the hell Lauren!! Sorry guys, I just couldn’t get my shit together to get this out at a more reasonable time (I’m blaming you season 2 of Daredevil!!!). But honestly, good tv aside, since April began I have been feeling crazy scattered. The focus I wanted to put on my blog went out the window! I’ve got about a dozen half finished posts, pictures that need correcting and piles of footage waiting to be edited… (side note, check out my Youtube channel already!)

BUT NONE THE LESS, I am getting these little reviews out now! I am really excited about a few of these products, and some others…. let’s just say I wish I had wised up sooner, marched them back to where they came from, and put that cash back in my pocket. Without further ado…

1. Pai Copaiba Deep Cleanse AHA Mask

I actually picked this mask up as a GWP back at the beginning of the year. I was repurchasing the full size of Pai’s Calm Collection and this guy, along with two others came with it. (Just checked, promotion back on, get it here.) This was great for me because Pai is fucking expensive and I’ve wanted to explore more of the range. This mask is unbelievably gentle for something so detoxifying. The mix of clay and AHA’s work together well to draw out impurities, smooth the skin, and leaves skin clean with a bit of a glow. It’s great for decongesting skin, but if you are very very congested, it will bring stuff to surface (expect a blemish or two) but at least the dirt is onwards and upwards to getting off of your face. Full of Copaiba which is high in Omegas, it’s healing, and calming on irritated skin. Vegan, Cruelty free, and awesome. In my top favorite masks.

2. Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream

The description of this product, and how to use it is very confusing (says you can pat it on top of makeup??). I just use it as a good old fashioned moisturizer and that’s been working for me! It’s a weird, light, slightly whipped texture, that melts into the skin. It isn’t the most hydrating of creams, so it’s good to layer on top of a serum. I’ve used it day and night, and I think I like it. I originally planned on doing a full review of it, but can’t make up my mind about it. I’m about half way through the little pot, so when I hit bottom I’ll give an update either via a full post or an Instagram blurb. I like how fast it absorbs, and unlike some people, rather enjoy the scent. It’s slightly brightening, nowhere near what Good Genes, or a regular Acid Toner can do though, but has helped with redness and hyper-pigmentation. It’s got some AHAs in there, as well as Hyaluronic acid and Tamarind extract, along with a list as long as my arm of other interesting beneficial ingredients. If you’ve got oily skin I think this could be a perfect amount of moisture for you, but not enough on its own for those on the dehydrated dry side. Think this could be a summer staple for me (fingers crossed). More thoughts to come!

3. Codage Paris Serum N.03 Radiance & Energy

Ugh, I am glad I didn’t put money down for this guy. I got this deluxe sample size also as a gift with purchase. Codage has some of the most expensive serums out there which always adds an air of mystery and curiosity to any product. I’ve used up the entire bottle now and saw zero results. It’s supposed to boost collagen, hydrate, firm, reduce the appearance of fine lines, detoxify, and protect the skin from free radicals. Maybe it’s trying to do too much? It’s highly fragranced, the smell is actually lovely, but literally seems like I was slapping a bottle of expensive perfume onto my face. If you are looking for a brightening serum check out Sunday Riley Good Genes or Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum, both excellent in my opinion. Read their reviews Here & Here!

4. Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist with Hyaluronic Acid & Black Oat

You got me again Pixi! Second Item I’ve tried from this brand and it’s another winner! I’ve been using this after my acid toner, kinda like the Korean essence step, just before I put on any serum. It really adds a giant boost of moisture and helps everything else I apply afterword to sink in. It creates a nice canvas to layer makeup on, as well as perks up that mid-day-cakey-product face. For a few days I used it right before makeup applications and got several complexion complements when I was out and about. Milky Mist surprising helped with my general redness and helped temper my annoyed broken out skin. It’s got Hyaluronic Acid, Black Oat, Provitamin A and Linoleic Acid, all stellar ingredients to see in something so reasonably priced. Great at plumping the skin, adding hydrating and just all around boosting radiance. Get It.

5. NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint

Oh Skin tint, how I wish things could have been different. I don’t even know where to start with this guy… the good maybe? It does give an absolutely gorgeous finish to the skin (not a tint at all, think closer to medium, buildable coverage) If you want to wear makeup for lets say, 1 to 2 hours, then this is your guy! You will look flawless! But after the two hour mark, get ready to turn back into a pumpkin because this Cinderella story is over. It moved around on my face, caked up around my dry patches, and clung to all my imperfections as well as settled into my fine lines. Fun right? Also be very weary of your skins hydrating level, and the dryness of the weather you are in, it’s a fickle guy and basically only performs well in a vacuum. Also, it smells like alcohol. I purchased this right as it launched, didn’t wait for reviews, and just kept giving it second, third and fourth chances. Past the point of returnng now this dude is reserved for quick auditions that I plan on removing my makeup after anyways. Skip the fuss Gus!

I went on a no-buy for the month of March, but now that we are into April, my hands have been itching to get new products in them! Any favorites you’ve tried over the last few months? I need some newness folks!

-Pence

Some links are affiliated!

Favorites | March

Published by lauren

March, what happened, did I say something? You just left with no warning, total french exit dude. We did have some good moments, even if they were fleeting.

Well, here they are folks, my March Favorites. I’m really trying to up my youtube game, so it would make this idiots day if you could watch and subscribe (like too if you feel so inclined). But as last time, if my voice is too grating, go ahead and just enjoy the words and picture below. (most of it’s all there)

This little rollerball from Nest has been in my handbag and on my wrist for the last four weeks. The mix of blood orange and white ginger make Paradise a perfect spring scent. Available at Sephora Oh, and if you haven’t already, check out my Nest perfume guide here.

I actually picked up this trio from Fresh back during the holidays but didn’t bust them out until this past month. Rose is a lovely bright pop on the lips and both Nude and Honey make for a gorgeous, easy nude lip.

The swatches, top down are Honey, Nude & Rose. This particular set is OOS, but Sephora has several similar still available that are great for spring. Here, Here and Here!

I picked up this face mist while at a spa in Idaho. I’ve never heard of Kerstin Florian before, but I’ve fallen head over heals for this Hydrating Neroli Water. I’m curious what other gems are lurking in this line. Anyone out there tried this brand, got some recommendations?

Any flower lovers out there should do themselves a favor and pick up this book! The Flower Recipe Book by Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo of the magical Studio Choo is a wealth of inspiration and information for all those who day dream of becoming florists. I’m doing my own flowers for my upcoming wedding in June, and this book has been a big help in the planing.

I had two skincare stand outs in the month of March. Fresh’s Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil has been a treat for my face. It’s got a lovely light scent, and leaves the skin intensely hydrated. It’s packed with antioxidant, omega heavy oils like Seabuckthorn, Camellia and Cranberry seed. My second skincare love comes from Tatcha, I’ve already gone into depth on the Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil (read my review here), but long story short, it’s a great morning cleanse, very hydrating, and luxurious to use.

Not pictured here, but mentioned in the video (go watch it already!) is Maybelline Dream Velvet Matte Foundation. It’s a super affordable, blendable, lightweight foundation, that’s not so matte as it would say, but provides some luxury brand quality finish. Available at drugstore.com

I’ve got a lot of fun things planned for April! (including my Jack & Jill bachelor party!) This coming month I’m excited to share with you all the next phases of this blog and my Youtube Channel! I will be incorporating my herbalist themed posts, as well as some city guides and how to videos! But before all that, I’d love to hear from you guys, what are you looking forward to in your upcoming April? Any standout favorites from last month? Let me know in the comments below!

*Full disclosure, some links are affiliated!

Field Guide Film | Vimeo Edit

Published by lauren

Short’s huh? You’re gonna write an entire post dedicated to short films on Vimeo? Why yes, yes I am! I know it sounds pretentious, and maybe it is pretentious, but hell I’m gonna own it! I present you five shorts films I think you should put in front of your eyeballs and enjoy. Quick warning, the majority of these are NSFW, have adult themes, violence, and foul language, you know, all the good stuff.

Funnel

My fiance recommend this one to me recently, and it’s become a fast favorite. The Funnel is absolutely hilarious, simple, and strange. Presented by Bob Odenkirk, this comedy adventure gem by writer-director-actor Andre Hyland is a breath of fresh absurdist air. It went to the likes of Sundance and SXSW and now I just can’t wait to see his 2016 Sundance entry, The 4th!

Successful Alcoholics

Successful Alcoholics stars baby faced TJ Miller and Lizzy Chaplan as two, you guessed it, successful alcoholics. This hilarious and hard to watch short explores the (sorta) downward spiral of a couple that’s both great and sloppy at life. Written by T.J. Miller and Jordan Vogt-Roberts with Roberts directing (of the lovable Kings of Summer). It might be the longest short on here, but worth every minute!

I Love Sarah Jane

I Love Sarah Jane is a classic. It’s a great take on an old subject (zombies) and captures all the sweet nuances of adolescent romance. Spencer Susser does an excellent job creating a slice of a much larger world, that definitely leaves you wanting more than just 14 minutes. Oh, and bonus, you get to see the brilliant Mia Wasikowska in the early ages of her career! A must watch.

Crossbow

Okay, I am gonna be straight with you here, Crossbow is dark, the darkest short on here, and a little bit fucked up too. But it is also brilliant. The structure of it, the cinematography, the voice over… brilliant. It’s a real film lovers treat. Written and directed by David Michod (who also co-wrote I Love Sarah Jane), who later went on to make the amazingly intense feature length drama, Animal Kingdom.

Doubles

Doubles is a fun, quirky take on the boy gets girl tale. This twilight zone like short explores what happens to the every day man as two universes collide. Staring my real-life-friend Mike Nelson and written and directed by up and comer Jacob Motz. This short deserves a spotlight amongst the biggest of little films!

Of course we all know Vimeo is not limited to short films, it’s full of interesting odes to dogs, experimental dance pieces, and of course my mother-in-laws amazing home videos! Next time you’re in the mood for some serious internet zone outs, maybe dive into the Vimeo staff picks, or just follow me, I am constantly adding more liked videos (just like this one from my buddy Andrew)

And don’t worry, my next film post wont be so serious… Here’s a sneak peak….

Empties | #1

Published by lauren

Well, I’ve gone off the fucking deep end. I started hoarding my trash in the far corners of my closet like some rat waiting for winter. The collection was bursting through its bag, so I figured it was time to pull a few items out, give them some words, then hand them over to the recycling gods.

THE STUFF

Full Disclosure! I do use affiliate links! So some above maybe just that! Click at your own risk 🙂

Shopping List | Nest Perfume

Published by lauren

I recently took a weekend trip home to do some pre wedding celebrating with my sister and mom. They really out did themselves. We ate tons of great food, wandered the shops of the local town, and got ridiculously pampered at a couple of spas. Shout out to you ladies if you’re reading this! On top of all that, upon arriving, my sister pulls out a set of Nest perfumes as a gift. I start laughing at the sight of it! I originally planned on getting this collection for her for Christmas but it kept going in and out of stock before I got the chance! (I ended up getting her one similar to this set by Maison Martin Margiela). As someone who’s been adverse to perfume most of her life this set is a great introduction into something I previously avoided. I am just now, as I reach my 30’s gaining respect for scents, enjoying the private luxury they provide and the sense memories they evoke.

The Nest Eau de parfum Collection includes seven different 0.1 oz rollerball scents, several exclusive to Sephora. The founder of Nest, Laura Slatkin, was inspired by the art work of 18th century artist Mary Delany. Delany was a powerhouse of a women: progressive, resilient and fascinating. Her beautiful and botanically correct prints of various plants might at first seem like paintings, but are in fact paper collages. Seriously, go do some google-ing, she’ll have you intrigued.

Each of these scents is unique and complex, expressing the artwork that represents it. I’ve been discovering new favorites each time I reach for them, picking whatever suits my mood at the moment. Probably Nest’s most popular and blogged about perfume is Indigo, a deep scent of cardamom, bergamot and tea (although I smell blackberries… odd). It’s a very very sexy perfume.

Currently the fresh citrus scents of Paradise and Amazon Lily have been staples, filling the bottom of my handbag. Paradise has sharp, cleansing notes of ginger and blood orange while Amazon Lilly is an uplifting blend of lilies, tangerines, and lime.

Dahlia & Vines is the most feminine of all the scents (it is pink for christ sake), and although lovely with its notes of peonies and roses, has been the least worn by me. White Sandalwood, on the opposite side of the spectrum, is rather masculine in its notes, with a musky combination of almonds, spices, and (you guessed it) sandalwood.

The exotic notes of Midnight Fleur have made it my favorite for evenings. It has an intoxicating blend of vanilla, jasmine, black amber and patchouli. Verde is another fresh scent I’ve been loving. It notes of vetiver, cedar and verbana layer beautifully with Amazon Lilly.

The set, although months after the holiday season, is still popping in and out of stock. You can find the Eau de parfum Collection at Sephora. They also have a plethora of rollerballs, full size bottles and a few other well priced sets (here, here, and here) if you are on the hunt for a great gift. What’s your favorite scents to wear these days? What was one of the perfumes you first fell in love with? I’d love to know in the comments below!

-pence

(Full disclosure! Some links are affiliate ones!)

Tatcha’s Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil & Polished Gentle Rice Enzyme Powder

Published by lauren

Let us hope I am not being blinded by pretty packaging here (because this shit is some of the most gorgeous packaging on the market) but I’ve gotten myself into a bit of a love affair with Tatcha lately. For those of you not familiar with the brand, Tatcha is based around the beauty secrets of geishas, incorporating a bevy of natural ingredients that contain potent abilities and a rich history. Who doesn’t want to be anciently beautiful???

I received a travel size of Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream as a gift with purchase back in December, this little pot sparked a curiosity with a brand I previously had passed over. So when the Christmas gift cards started rolling in, I knew I needed to set aside some of that Sephora dough to investigate. I’ve gotten my hands on the Luminous Dewy Skin Mist (review to come) and two different travel sized cleansers: Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil and the Polished Gentle Rice Enzyme Powder. I’ve used both cleansers several times over the last two months and now It’s time to talk at your face about my opinions. (ie THE REVIEW)

The Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil is billed as a cleanser and makeup remover in one, no second cleanse needed! As it’s namesake suggests, it contains Camellia Oil, although not at the top of the ingredients list like you’d hope, but nestled in the center. Camellia oil is having a bit of a spot light these days in the beauty industry, showing up in all types of products. Also know as Tsubaki Oil, it’s very rich in oleic acid, Omegas 3, 6 & 9 as well as a multitude of vitamins like A, B, E & D. It’s considered to have one of the highest amounts of naturally occurring antioxidants within a botanical substance.

Now Rice Bran Oil actually sits towards the top of the ingredients list. It’s high in vitamins, such as A, E and B12, antioxidants (UV protection), and also has some moisturizing properties. This cleansing oil also includes Green Tea Extract, which as we all know is extremely good for you both inside and out due to its large amount of antioxidants. Its concentration of polyphenols are a great aid in fighting free radicals, meaning it’s an anti-ager. Red Algae Extract also makes an appearance on the list, another fun trending ingredient I’ve see popping up more and more. It’s got a unique ability to moisturize, and help the skin retain that moisture. All three of these ingredients, Green Tea, Red Algae, and Rice Bran combine to make what Tatcha calls HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex, something you’ll see plastered all over their packaging, website, and press releases.

The Pure One Step Camellia Cleaning Oil is the only other cleansing oil I have tried besides the Boscia Makeup-Breakup Oil. But unlike the Bosica one (which does a fan-fucking-tastic job of removing makeup), I find I can use this as more than just a make up remover. In fact, due to its price, I try to avoid using it as such, but don’t get me wrong, it does a great job of removing makeup. I use this as a second cleanse, but prefer to mainly use as a morning cleanse. It gives my skin a jolt of hydration, but doesn’t leave me oily, which I find perfect for starting the day with. I can see myself purchasing the larger size in the near future which seems a much better value then the travel size. The travel size, although beautiful looking, is too damn heavy for traveling with and prone to leaking (annoying story I wont bore you with).

The Polished Gentle Rice Enzyme Powder is a water activated powder that states it can be used as an exfoliant, cleanser and toner all in one. It, like the Pure Camilla Cleansing Oil contains the HADASEI-3 Bioactive Complex, the mix of Red Algae, Green Tea, and Rice Bran. Obviously this doesn’t have Rice Bran in just extract form but also as a powder. In fact Rice Bran Powder is the fist ingredient. Licorice Extract makes an appearance which is great because of its skin calming, anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also been known to lighten dark spots and fight hyper-pigmentation. Papaya Extract show up as the exfoliant in this product, but it is also a great skin healer, with is concentration of several different types of antioxidants.

Polished is the first of this type of cleanser I’ve ever used. The only other brand I’ve seen make something similar to it is the Exfoliating Grains by Farmacy, so I am pretty curious about this newer water activated formulas. Now even though this is considered the Gentle version of Tatchas different Rice Enzyme Powders (There’s a Deep, Soothing, and Classic) I did not find this gentle enough for daily use. It does feel a bit stripping, so I reached for it on days I’ve felt particularly grimy or following a work out. It does an awesome job of cleaning the skin, so I could see this being a good daily option for those with more oily, sensitive skin. The packaging of the travel size, unlike the cleansing oil, is very light weight and because it has no liquid there’s limited chance of a mess. I don’t see myself purchasing the larger size due to my infrequent use but might get the travel size some day for my gym bag. These water activated formulas appear to be a good deal, you seem to get way more then if it was pre mixed.

Both products were formulated with out parabens, synthetic fragrances, mineral oil, sulfate detergents, phthalates, urea, DEA or TEA. They do both contain alcohol in them, which I try to avoid in my beauty routine, but it’s near the bottom of the ingredients list, and I have yet to have a reaction.

I’ve got a way’s to go to get through the Polished Gentle Enzyme Powder, but am nearly out of the Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil. Any cleansing oils I must try before investing in the full size of this guy? I really want to try Tatcha’s serums, and sunscreens, anyone got some musts I need to check out from this brand?

-pence

YO! Full disclosure. This post contains affiliate links ya’ll.

The Week End | Weddings, Black Holes, and The Stairway to Hell

Published by lauren

The Watch. Finally caught Hail, Caesar! Not the best Cohen Brothers film, but still a lot of fun. Also stumbled upon this sketch from female comedy team Funkle Todd and my god, it is my new favorite thing. Absurdist gold.

The Read. Dove into reading As She Climbed Across the Table. In this the protagonist’s girlfriend leaves him for a black hole. Jury’s still out on this one. Climbed myself into an internet hole with researching this post. I spent hours reading about the Maori people. A fascinating culture.

The Eat. Jeff and I ventured to Abbott Kinney this week for some delicious pizza from Gjelina Take Away. It’s a good thing Venice isn’t always easy to get to because that pizza is $$$. We also cracked into our 5th consecutive bag from Heart Coffee Roasters. They’ve been on point this year! (as if they’ve ever been off)

The Life. A week with rehearsals, blog posts, work outs and my first dress fitting. Can’t show you my wedding dress yet, but it’s from Sarah Seven so you know it’s dreamy. In addition, I finally launched my youtube channel! My first video is a little rough (about my Feb Favs.), but I’m excited to make more!

The Gift. As RSVP’s have been rolling in, so have some gifts! Some lovely people sent these Candles and these Towels our way that we requested off of the etsy registry. I’m so grateful!

In case you missed it there’s a new Field Guid Film, this time about my Netflix picks. Also published my first of many In Review‘s. Some great bits on there!

What were your weekly highlights this go around?

– pence

Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask

Published by lauren

If ever there was a gateway drug for my skincare addiction, Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask was up there as one of the items that threw me over the ledge. I obsessed over purchasing this dude for weeks. At the time I couldn’t fathom spending so much on a mask. HA! So naive. So young.

Now that I’ve owned this little guy for several months now, I don’t know what all the fussing was about. Honestly this thing is a value. I’ve used it at least 20 times and have barely made a dent. Just look at the pictures of the tube! That shit’s full.

The Aura mask is packed with incredible ingredients. The second ingredient is, you guessed it, Manuka Honey. Now Manuka is definitely a (possibly annoyingly so) trending ingredient in both skincare and diets these days. At least it’s for good reason. Manuka Honey is a beautifully potent natural material.

What makes Manuka honey so special is the wonderful composition the Manuka extract creates when it mixes with the honey. Honey itself is an amazing healer: it’s antibacterial (good for blemishes), full of antioxidants (anti aging) and is packed with moisturizing properties (In fact it’s a humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin).

The Manuka, comes from the the nectar drank by bees from the flowering buds of the Manuka tree. It’s native to New Zealand and has been used in all manner of daily life by the Maori people. Manuka on its own is also antibacterial, anti fungal, akin to tea tree but much less irritating, and more effective. The two together really compliment one another, creating what is known as an active honey.

Aura also contains a blend of additionally beneficial ingredients. Avocado Oil is also a humectant, making it very moisturizing, and has a high amount of antioxidants like Vitamin E. Both Vanilla Oil and Mandarin oil are known for treating acne with their antibacterial properties. Both are considered to help calm the nervous system from their aromas, with Vanilla being an anti depressant, and both adding in calming anxiety. Carrot oil also appears lower on the ingredients list, and it helps add more antioxidants like Vitamin A as well as bring its antiseptic and detoxifying benefits.

Pohutukawa Extract is a new ingredient to me that doesn’t seem to have much information out there about it. It’s derived from a beautiful flowering tree native to New Zealand known as Metrosideros Excelsa. What I did gather is that it’s often been used to help treat sun damaged skin, and as a toner. It’s claimed by Antipodes to be a moisturizer as well as antiseptic, and full of anti oxidants as well. Grapefruit Seed Extract rounds out the ingredient list with both more anti bacterial and anti fungal properties.

I think what makes this mask a favorite and so unique is that it’s, in a way, a bridging mask. What I mean by that is that it fits into two categories of masks. It is a detoxifying mask duo to all its acne clearing, and pore refining ingredients, but also an immensely hydrating one from all the humectant and antioxidants in there as well. My skin never feels tight after using this, as most detoxifying mask will do, and in fact seems plumped.

The aroma is a little intense, but pleasant, and you don’t need much to cover your entire face. My only problem with this mask is using it up. You get a rather large amount and I need to step up my usage of it before it goes bad. I tend to reach for this around times of hormonal breakouts, or when I’ve eaten particularly shitty. It helps fight off, and calm down any jerks that are trying to grow or have grown on my face.

All and all I think this is a great investment piece for anyone dealing with breakouts, even the occasional one. You can actually find it for a variety of different price points by doing a little research online. A few examples here and here* and here.*

I think I am having a little bit of a love affair with products from both New Zealand and Australia. I’ve been loving using Jurlique and Trilogy items as well as this Antipodes mask and have my eye on some items from Aesop and Grown Alchemist. Have you tried Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask? I am very curious about other products in the Antipodes range, anybody got some favorite out there?

*this post contains affiliate links

Field Guide Film | Netflix Edit

Published by lauren

I had a unique experience that while in early elementary school a family friend owned a video store. I spent countless hours after school browsing the shelves while my mom and her friend chatted in the back. Fast forward a few years and my family has moved across the state and the family friend, for a few years at least, sends bootleg copies of movies we requested in chicken scratched letters. As the friendship dwindles with distance so do the movies. Fast forward to Junior High, I ask for a VCR for my birthday so I can watch all the $2 VHS tapes I buy from the local Safeway discount bin. I lock myself away in room, replaying old favorites over and over. Fast forward to college in Seattle. I grow an affinity for the independent movie store and larger chains alike. I abuse monthly passes and student discounts. I walk the long way home so I can stop at my favorite one. I methodically browse the aisles, reading staff recommendations and get introduced to the likes of Jim Jarmusch, Wong Kar-wai, and pre Hays Code films.

Fast forward and I’m now living in LA. I haven’t been to a video store in years. I scroll through Netflix, hours and hours are spent watching 20 minutes of this, 20 minutes of that. At least with out the video store I don’t have to commit 2 hours to a dud, Just 2 hours to 6 different duds. But in there, amongst the digital shelves are real winners that you might pass over with out that staff recommendation tag peeking out and glaring you in the face. Well here I am. Consider me your video store clerk and I have a few suggestions for you next time you find yourself aimlessly clicking through the aisles of titles. Please, give them more than 20 minutes.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night

Tagged the first Iranian vampire western, this little gem by Ana Lily Amirpour is so much more than the horror film it’s billed as. Stylish, endearing, and yes a little scary, this story of a lonesome vampire blends genres beautifully. After watching you’ll want to download the pulpy soundtrack.

Phoenix

This heartbreaking thriller will leave you breathless. Nina Hoss gives an outstanding performance as a holocaust surviver, so disfigured from the experience she is unrecognizable as her former self even to her husband. The mysteries unfold in this to a climatic scene (one of the best I’ve ever seen) that you should do yourself a favor and not spoil. Just watch.

Short Term 12

Brie Larson gives an oscar worthy performance, before she was ever nominated, in this (some times hard to watch) story about a counselor for at-risk-teens. Her own story of self discovery, intertwined with the teens she is helping is one of the most moving films I’ve seen in years.

Dope

One of my favorite movies of this past year, Dope is a hilarious and smart adventure though the streets of Inglewood. The movie seamlessly weaves pop culture, self aware humor, and heart. Honestly one of the most fun times you can have watching a film. (with a soundtrack you’ll want to play in your car for days to come.)

Fading Gigolo

If you don’t already love John Turturro you will after this! I am surprised this has as such a low Tomatometer, because this is a delightful tale, that is depicted more as as sex comedy than I think it really is. It is a its center a love story about healing and self discovery. Vanessa Paradis is lovely as the widowed Avigal, finding her passion in a restricted society. This trailer does the film no service.

I hope I was helpful and that my recommendations wont fall short! What was the last movie you stumbled upon that is now a new favorite? If you could recommend anything on Netflix what is a must see?

Favorites | February

Published by lauren

Holy baby Jesus it’s March! Damn, it is not a new year any longer. Guess it is time to stop saying what I want to do with 2016 and just get to doing it! This year is gonna be a big one for me, not only am I getting married but I’m also turning 30. Surprisingly neither of those things feel scary, honestly they just feel long over do. I knew from the first time I was alone with Jeff that he was the one. And I’m pretty glad to say goodbye to my twenties, they were riddled with self doubt and confusion. I’m not counting on my 30’s to be a breeze, but I am looking forward to a little more grounded sense of self. I’ve put so much work into myself over the last year, that thirty will feel a little like a mile marker for me, and I’m ready to celebrate! Okay, enough feelings and let’s get to what you’re really here for…. THE STUFF!!! I’ve got a lot of it! and (personal belief here) it’s gooooooood. Pictures, links and words down below, and if you’re tired of reading, just watch the video. It’s all in there too, but with my face!

Finally got some Hourglass in my stash! I fell in love with these two this last month. The Ambient Lighting Powder in Diffused Light* adds a nice glow and the yellow cast in it helps cancel out some redness I am prone to. I’ve been wearing the Ambient Lighting Blush in Incandescent Electra* nearly everyday since I took it out of the box. The blush is just a perfect, natural looking, transition shade if you have a bold lip on.

This palette has gotten some mixed review out there, but its the bees-knees to me. The Tartlette in Bloom Palette* is made of neutrals, with a few shimmers in there. Slim, pretty packaging. Can be used wet or dry. NICE.

The Lip Cheat in Crazy Love* is my ONLY Charlotte Tilbury product. I know… how can you have a blog and not own like a million of those products.?? WELL, them bitches are pricey… Anyways. I’m loving pairing it with my new favorite MAC Lipstick in Captive*. This raspberry color is a great alternative to a bold red lip.

Great smells, great small brands, both 100% Natural. Province Apothecary No.7 is an intoxicating blend of Sandalwood and Bergamot. Au Natural Organics Pure Palo Santo Oil is a real treat, and should last you about a decade. This shit in potent.

I’ve already said enough about Sunday Riley’s Blue Moon Tranquility Cleansing Balm*, if you haven’t heard my words, read them here. Long story short: I like it a lot. I plan on doing a full post on Farmacy Hydrating Coconut Gel Masks* soon. But for now the gist of it is that they hydrate like crazy, leave you looking glowy and are great for calming down irritated skin.

Elegant, Simple, and affordable. I’ve worn this necklace nearly everyday since October. It’s by the designer Moorea Seal who also has a lovely online store full of great buys. Here’s one similar.

This giant scarf looks like it came from some exotic place (I wish) but was picked up at my local Madewell.* The detail is gorgeous, and it’s been a great topper to add life to more basic outfits.

Nisolo’s Oliver Oxford in Scarlet is honestly the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned, and possible the coolest as well! The company is socially conscious and all the shoes are hand made in Peru. I think the price to quality ratio is on point for once. Follow their Instagram, they often are doing promotions.

Media wise I went on a little binge with Penny Dreadful* and watched all 18 episodes over a 3 day weekend. Yeah, my dreams are just now recovering…. Also been obsessively listening to Christine and the Queens*. Give your ears some treats:

I hope you found some new favorites! What were you loving in the month of February? Well I am off to catch up on House of Cards. (Fingers crossed the new season is better than the abysmal third one). Here’s to a great March!

*this post contains affiliate links

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