Before & After: Global Beauty Standards

(Before)

Blogger Esther Honig created a series of photos depicting global beauty standards by photoshopping a raw image of herself. The project showcases how standards of beauty vary globally.

A sampling of the After photos:

View the eye-opening side-by-side comparison here.

Have a Breezy Weekend.

The humidity broke just in time to welcome the weekend in New York! Do you have any fun plans? I'm ready to kick off my pumps, prepare a big family dinner and home and keep it low-key for the next few days. I've been hoping to find time to go through my photos from my April trips to LA and Puerto Rico!



A round-up of things from around the web:

Therapy dogs for college students.

The skateboard cop exists.

Genius travel tips. And you might indulge in this while you're on the topic of travel.

First world problems.

Obama!

The secret to a happily ever after.

A gift for the cat lovers in your life.

The snacking habits of great writers.

This sandwich looks amazing.

I love this pretty little thing.





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Kara Rosenlund Photography

Australian photographer and editor Kara Rosenlund captures the beauty in the every day with her startlingly precise images. I'd love to step into each scene! Peruse her online portfolio, purchase prints and follow her social media here.

Discoveries: June Birchbox

Two of my favorite things came together in June: Birchbox and JetBlue. I'm so excited about the new Birchbox pop-up in JFK and JetBlue Mint! 

Each subscriber received a fun personality quiz to discover their domestic city destination match. My results pointed me in the direction of Austin, which came as no surprise as I've been hankering to visit for a few years! Live music and BBQ? Yes, please.

Included in my box:

Benefit They're Real! Mascara | Full Size $23

Everything from Benefit is amazing! I have a few They're Real! mascaras in my vanity already, thanks for the spare!

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain | Full Size $20

This creamy lip stain so lovely, I'm planning to purchase the full size. The texture is plush and the color builds with ease for a more dramatic look for evening. 

English Laundry Signature Fragrance for Her | Full Size $70

With notes  rose geranium, musk and spicy wood, this heavenly perfume is versatile and subtly sexy. 

Paula's Choice RESIST Barrier Repair Moisturizer with Retinol | Full Size $27

Ultra gentle and at a great price-point for an anti-aging product, Paula's choice is an excellent option for a facial moisturizer. I'm not crazy about the packaging, but I'm happy with the results.

Lierac Micellar Cleansing Water | Full Size $24

Similar to my beloved Bioderma, this cleansing water is effective in removing waterproof cosmetics without tugging or rubbing at your skin. I love the travel size bottle and plan to save it for trips!

Not yet a subscriber? Sign-up here!

Big Bear Axo Bowl Set

Perfect for a lodge in Montana (or entertaining on my terrace in Manhattan in the early Autumn season), the Big Bear Axo Bowl Set has secured a place in my heart with it's tribal design and wood detailing. More details and purchase at Red Sail.

Discoveries: June Ipsy Glam Bag

June marked another amazing month for ipsy! Dubbed Pretty in Paradise,  ipsy collaborated with Rebecca Minkoff to design an adorable pineapple adorned glam bag! It's been a staple in my purse since it arrived!

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Included in my Glam Bag:

Be a Bombshell Lash Out Mascara | Full Size $15 Included!
I'm consistently impressed with the quality of Be a Bombshell cosmetics! This luscious mascara delivers gorgeous volume to lashes! To boot, it is easily removed with cleansing waters such as Bioderma or Lierac.
Bonus: 30% Off &Free Beach Please Blush w/ Promo Code IPSY30.

Marc Anthony Dream Waves Beach Spray | Full Size $8.79
At first glance, I wasn't exactly impressed with this product. However, it was love at first spray! The formula smells like a summer day in my childhood in northern California! My fine hair doesn't result in beach waves, but the texturizing properties are fantastic.
Bonus: 24% at Walgreens.

NYX Butter Gloss in Creme Brulee | Full Size $5 Included!
Oh my goodness, this gloss smells good enough to eat! The creamy pink is so flattering for brunch with friends or in the office!
Bonus: 30% off a NYX Stick Brush w/ code NYXJUNEBLOOM

OFRA Universal Brow Pencil   | Full Size $13 Included!
Great brows are the new black! I'm completely in love with this pencil for adding just the right amount of 'wow' to brows.
Bonus: 30% off at OfraCosmetics dot com w/ code IPSY30

Realtree for Her Perfume | Full Size $xx
I love sampling new fragrances! Sadly, this cocktail is not for me,  I will be passing on to a friend.
Bonus: Free shipping and gift w/ purchase for orders of $80 or more w/ code ipsyrealtree

Not yet and ipsy subscriber? Sign-up here!

I'm in love with this.

Did you know that the French refer to pie charts as "le camemberts"? This is delightful. 

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Have a Sunny Weekend!

I'm not sure what I'm more excited about- a Friday afternoon in Southampton or the weekend ahead! What are you getting into? I'm hitting up free yoga, The Tenement Museum and visiting with some family in town from Philadelphia! 

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A round-up of things from the web:

Traveling to LA just got an upgrade.

A hidden painting is found.

Better health care, please.

The rats are winning.

The original bachelor?

Behind the scenes of the soggy dog photo shoot.

Maddie at a pool party.

A pretty San Francisco wedding.

Hashtag garden.

This looks delicious!







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Palm Tree Print Sweatshirt

From Karen Millen, the Palm Tree Sweatshirt pairs well with a margarita, jean shorts and your favorite sandals. The sleeve features the print on the back and a georgette contrast on the back. I'm tempted. So tempted. Purchase here.

Double Geode Ring

Isn't this ring lovely? From LEIF, the beauty is crafted from 14kt gold and geodes. It reminds me of my grandparents that taught Earth sciences and explored terrain with my brother and I while collecting gems from around the country.

The Big Book of the Hamptons

It's summer time, which means the Hamptons is laced in every conversation around weekend plans in New York! I'm so excited to be co-hosting my first Hamptons-based event this Friday with my new(ish) company! Make sure you keep an eye on my Instagram & Twitter for live updates! Interim, how fun is The Big Book of the Hamptons? The coffee table book showcases the stunning and iconic mansions of the area. Wishlisted!

Nautical Signal Fringe Scarf

Growing up with a sailor father (and eventually becoming one myself!) I will always have a love for all things nautical! Isn't this scarf from Vineyard Vines the bee's knees? It's a beautiful and sporty nod to summers by the sea!

Have a Spicy Weekend!

It's been such an exciting week! I've definitely earned the watermelon-jalapeño margarita I plan to drink Saturday after yoga! What are you getting into?

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A round-up of things from around the web:

Today is Friday the 13th and there will be a full moon tonight!

Man saves a squirrel by performing CPR. #awww

Why Americans don't like vacations and work.

Dogs prefer to earn their treats.

A hidden whale is revealed.

Watch a man feed an alligator marshmallows directly by mouth.

WOW. This moon over Sweden is beautiful!

The ultimate deviled egg.

Loving these trousers!

A photo series of birthdays.









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Fleur Bra

Isn't the Fleur Bra gorgeous? My physique is too busty, but this is a truly beautiful piece for smaller chested women! Is it for you? Find yours at Revolve clothing.

Lynild Blanket in Purple and Orange

At first (online) glance, the Lynild Blanket doesn't appear to be worth it's $375 sticker. Crafted at a historic hill top mill in Norway from local sheep, the wool is superior for it's above average insulating qualities. For all of my fellow upper Midwest and Northeastern neighbors that survived this past winter's Polar Vortex, that sounds pretty tempting, no? More details and purchase at Gretel Home.

Discoveries: Birchbox Limited Edition Modern Mermaid Box

As a kiddo, Splash was one of my favorite movies, which makes me wonder if that is why I ended up choosing the South Street Seaport as my home base in New York!  Birchbox has introduced another fun limited edition box: Modern Mermaid! Clearly, I need this in my life!

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Included in the Box:

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Genius Top Coat
It's my first rodeo with Anastasia products! This paraben free, waterproof lash top coat is perfect for a jumping off of the pier into the salty walter. I plan to use it on beach days, super humid days and rainy days.

Atelier Cologne Cedrat Enivrant Absolue Travel Spray
Everything from Atelier smells amazing! This scent brings together citrusy lime, Moroccan cedrat juniper and mint for a beautiful, light scent.

Captain Blankenship Mermaid Mane Sea Salt Spray
With an infusion of organic rose oil, this spray not only adds a pretty scent to your 'do, but delivers a much needed texture and body to  fine hair. I love the packaging! I'm a total sucker for great packaging:)

Coola Liplux SPF 30 Original Formula
I take SPF very seriously! I'm a long distance from my several times weekly visits to the tanning booth. It's important to keep your kisser protected, too! As a  #fangirl of Coola sun care, I was so excited to find this balm in the box. It's mild, moisturizing and fantastic preventive care!

Ruffian Endless Summer Collection 
Inspired by the tropics, the trio includes a shimmery light slate (Blue Lagoon), Orchid (Endless Love) and soft bronze (Sahara). The collection is exclusive to Birchbox!  Check out my Instagram of Endless Love and Blue Lagoon.

Stephanie Johnson Mermaid Mirror
I must confess! I don't carry a compact mirror in my tote! I'm excited to jump on the bandwagon with this gorgeous iridescent Birchbox exclusive from designer Stephanie Johnson.

Vasanti Kajal Extreme Intense Eye Pencil in Electric Navy 
 This pencil is genius! With a buttery, long lasting formula, smudging edge and built in sharpener- a gal couldn't ask for more.

Reclaimed Tie Pillow

Crafted from reclaimed ties, this business casual pillow is perfect for the office! More details and purchase at Uncommon Goods.

Discoveries: May GLOSSYBOX (Special Edition Bergdorf Goodman!)

Disclosure: I work at GLOSSYBOX.

The May marriage of GLOSSYBOX and Bergdorf Goodman is pure genius! Six stunning products come together in one gorgeous little purple box! I love that the lion's share are high-end skin care. To boot, each contains a $25 gift card without a minimum purchase. I treated myself to a Joie blouse!

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Included in my box:


Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Skin Primer | Full Size $45
Super gentle,  with slightly weird scent,  this primer is oddly addictive. I initially planned to save the single-use packets for travel, but found myself reaching for them each morning until they were gone!

Revive Intensive Volumizing Eye Serum | Full Size $350
Supple and effective, this amazing eye serum visibly plumps, rebuilds the delicate eye area. It's heavenly! A bit too much comes out with one pump, which I apply in other sensitive areas around the contours of my nose and brows.

Alterna Caviar CC Cream | Full Size $25
CC Cream for hair? It seems a little overboard, but I have to admit that I am a wee bit obsessed with this leave-in styling product. The formula leaves hair luscious, uv protected  and exhibits a light, polished hold.

Atelier Cologne Rose Anonyme Cologne Absolue | Full Size $140
Atelier has my heart! Every scent is smells like a spicy version of heaven! Rose Anonyme is a gorgeous cocktail of Turkish rose, spicy ginger, velvet oud, Indonesian patchouli, mystic papyrus and Somalian incense. When applied to the skin, the complexities are wonderfully complimented.

Lancer Lift Serum Intense | Full Size $275
Pure gold and stem cell recover complex blend together to deliver instant rejuvenating results. The serum contains an exclusive plant stem-cell compound that delivers firming and lifting effects to skin with electromagnetic gold supports skin's natural cycle. I've been using it for eight days and my complexion is extra glowy, despite the daily stresses of pollution and need for more zzz's!

Hourglass Cosmetics Film Noir Spectrum Mascara | Full Size $28
As a lover of Hourglass blushes, I was so excited to find this brand in my box! The conditioning formula adds length to lashes with a few swipes. I must admit I am a tad underwhelmed compared to other mascaras in my vanity which provide better volume, but still thrilled to sample this product!



Not yet a subscriber? Sign-up here.

Have a Gorgeous Weekend!

It's Friday! What are you getting into this weekend? I'm hitting-up a free yoga compliments of lee lees forest, enjoying some downtime with my little family and restocking my fridge with Pickle Guys!

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A round-up from around the web...

Drink milk? You're a mutant.

I love this tumblr.

These prom photos made me laugh.

Career advice from powerful women.

Lower Manhattan's storm defense.

Millenials can't buy homes.

Why Midwesterners find New Yorkers weird.

Mouth watering!

I love this tote for summer.

The best international food markets in New York.






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Alex & Ani Jetflapper Neckalce

Inspired by the Jetflapper style necklaces of the fabulous 1920's, Alex & Ani's Jetflapper necklace in gold is a fun statement to individualism and confidence! Also available in silver, you can purchase here.

Stunning Media Console

Wow. I'm completely enamored with this stunning media console from Montreal designer ARTEMANdotUS. Crafted from wood reclaimed from Indonesian boats and metal, this piece is truly unique and full of soul.  Details at etsy. #Wishlisted!

Freezy Pups

My little Pug overheats within a few blocks of walking on a hot, humid New York Day. I love this adorable Freezy Pups tray to craft your own frozen treats to cool down your pups!  The reusable tray is sold in a kit with a few packets of organic broth! More details at Freezy Pups dot com.

Cute Fathers Day Card

Do you have a plan for Fathers Day, yet? It's this Sunday (which I'm sure all of your spam has been reminding you relentlessly)! I love this cute card from JulieAnneArt. Purchase at her etsy shop.

Band of Outsiders Pajama Shirt

Timeless with a twist? Yes, please! Band of Outsiders brought together designer Scott Sternberg and TEN Underwear to produce this gorgeous pajama shirt with mixed-color piping. Details and purchase here.

Discoveries: May Ipsy Glam Bag

 

I love opening my mailbox to find a fuschia envelope from ipsy! May's goodies centered around a Fresh Picks theme with basics for summer parties!

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Included in my bag:

Hang 10 Classic Sport SPF 50 | Full Size $12.99
Sunscreen is gold to me!  Hang Ten's formula is paraben free, non greasy and provided excellent protection to my pale skin on Saturday afternoon during the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic.
Bonus: 25% off w/ code "IPSY2014"

Pacifica Eyeshadow Duo in Celestial & Opal | Full Size ~$5 Included!
Every complexion needs a perfect champagne and taupe on hand. I love this duo for its buildable pigmentation and compact versatility.
Bonus: 25% off any purchase w/ code "ipsybeauty"

Avene Thermal Spring Water | Full Size $18
Gentle and soothing, Avene spray delivers an instant dewy appearance to your skin. I've kept in in my tote for refreshes throughout the day.
Bonus: 15% off w/ code "IPSY15"

pur lisse Hydra Balance moisturizer| Full Size $55
Perfect for daily use, the forumla glides like gel and absorbs like cream. The scent is mild and I've found my face feels soothed and moisturized throughout the day. The weather has been a bit humid, which lends me to wonder how the cream will perform in dryer climates. 
Bonus: 30% of w/ code "Ipsy30"

nailtini Nail Lacquer in Champagne | Full Size $13 Included!
I've always wanted to try nailtini lacquers! I  love the branding, fun names and pretty hues. Champagne needed 3 coats for my preference, but performed beautifully for 5 days without chips.
Bonus: 50% off order of $12 or more & free eyeliner w/ code "IPSYSPRING"


Not yet an Ipsy subscriber? Sign-up here!