This week's obsession: graphic stripes

Stripes make me happy. Color makes me happy. Combine these two elements and you've got one of my favorite "uniforms." Make it a dress and I'm in fashion heaven (example: this floor-skimming maxi dress, above). And to add a little something unexpected, I would pair this outfit with my beloved summer staple.

How about you? Do you love stripes as much as me? Or are you more of a polka dot girl? Bold prints? Neutrals? Black?


Stripes, super-sized. (Vogue UK)

Best hair spray (for bangs)

I've had bangs for quite some time now (going on 10 years) and I'm always on the lookout for a good hair spray to keep them in place. I hate sprays that make your hair feel like a helmet. And the ones that don't do the job feel like a waste of money.

But a few years ago I met my perfect match.

This one is a maximum hold spray that isn't sticky, isn't flaky, contains sunscreen (bonus points!) and smells like lavender-bergamot-rose.

May the Force be with you.


Summer street style. (Man Repeller)

Beauty life-changer: cleansing oil

When you take off all of your makeup, how do you know you got everything?

I recently added cleansing oil to my nighttime routine and it's revolutionizing my skin. After reading this insightful article about Korean skincare (and recommendations from my BFF) I thought, "What do I have to lose? I'm 41 and STILL breaking out like a teenager." It seems counter-intuitive to add oil to your face. But I'm telling you, it works. Cleansing oil is the perfect pre-cleansing step.

Here's my revised 6-step nighttime routine: 

1) First, I take off my eye makeup using this waterproof remover. Then I use a baby wipe all over my face to remove foundation, concealer, etc. 

2) Next is cleansing oil, which I use dry (I find it's more effective). After massaging into my face, I use warm water to rinse off.

3) Then I use a gentle cleanser (I like this one) with my Clarisonic Mia brush (this product changed my life!).  

4) Toner. Always use toner.

5) Don't forget those delicate areas.

6) Finish with a nourishing face oil. This one is my favorite.

I've been following this regimen for about a week now and I'm seeing results. Fewer breakouts, clearer skin, more even tone and a brighter and happier complexion overall.

Give it a go and let me know if you had similar results.

love, -j.


A grown-up guide to acne products. (Man Repeller)

I'm a nice person

Her highness posted this on her Instagram today and I just couldn't help myself. 

We all need to find our inner diva and just let it out. 


Madonna's best diva moments.

Sailor jeans

How many pairs of jeans do you have?

I think I've got six pairs in my closet. Skinnies, boyfriend, boot cut. And now I must add this wonderful pair of nautical-inspired sailor jeans. 

I love the flattering higher-rise waist and worn with leopard print pointy-toe heels is just the cat's meow. 


Spring denim. (Harper's Bazaar)

Quote for Monday

Image via 12 Kinds of Kindness.