Beauty Tip: How to Avoid Dry Skin When Traveling

Traveling is fun, but arriving at your destination with dry, itchy, red skin has to be the worst part. Everyone has their own take on how to keep your skin soft and supple despite the high altitudes, but now add in face masks (which are already wreaking havoc on our skin), and it feels like great skin on an airplane is really out of reach.

According to Dr. Liia Ramachandra, Pharm.D., Ph.D., serial entrepreneur, healthcare executive, and the founder and CEO of EpiLynx, a gluten-free skin care and cosmetics brand, you don’t need to accept that your skin will inevitably dry out or break out. “There are few things harder on your skin than air travel,” Ramachandra explains. “When you combine the stress of flying with the harsh conditions in the cabin and the new protocols required by COVID-19, you end up with the worst possible scenario for keeping your skin clean and healthy. Still, it is possible to arrive at your destination with glowing skin if you counterbalance the negative effects of air travel with a few proactive measures.”

ABM: Always Be Moisturizing

“Whether you are traveling or not, redness, breakouts, and acne can result from wearing the masks that have become a regular part of our lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, masks can be so irritating to our skin that the breakouts they cause have come to be known as ‘maskne’,” Ramachandra shares. Here is why it is so important to always moisturize before putting on a face mask.

“Acne is most often the result of clogged pores. The oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells that are normally on your skin build up even more when you are wearing a mask. The result is blocked pores and acne outbreaks,” says Ramachandra. “Acne and redness can also be triggered by the humidity that your mask traps close to your skin.” Additionally, Ramachandra notes that people with sensitive skin or eczema might notice more skin irritation due to the pressure from wearing a face mask.

Ramachandra recommends applying a light, non-oily moisturizer and wearing a clean, new mask. Check local guidelines for the best masks to wear to stop the spread of COVID-19 variants (which currently are more in favor of N95s than cloth masks), but if you are wearing a cloth mask, be sure to check the type of fabric. “Cotton masks typically are lighter and more breathable, making them better at preventing acne,” explains Ramachandra. Synthetic fibers like rayon and polyester masks “make it easier for humidity to be trapped close to your skin,” which can result in more skin irritation and breakouts.

When it comes to picking a moisturizer, you want one that hydrates and supports the skin barrier. Avoid heavy moisturizers (like one that you might use on your hands or feet) and find one that’s best for your skin type. If you have very dry skin, you may want to look for one with antioxidants to promote cell renewal and hydration that lasts for hours. If you have very oily skin, an oil-free moisturizer is your best bet to leave your skin supple.

Keep Your Skin in Mind Every Step of the Journey

Preflight

Before you board a plane to take off, Ramachandra recommends moisturizing. “Aircraft cabins are designed to remove humidity from the air,” Ramachandra states. “Your skin is most comfortable when humidity is between 40 and 70 percent. In an airplane’s pressurized cabin, the humidity drops to 20 percent. Your skin needs your help to have the right amount of moisture.”

Additionally, Ramachandra warns that it’s best not to put on any makeup“before the flight that could contribute to clogging your pores. Traveling without foundation or makeup powder on your face will make it much easier for your pores to breathe.” 

Inflight

“During the flight, try to minimize the number of times that you remove and reapply your mask. You might periodically try to wipe your face clean with a damp cloth and pat it dry to remove any dirt or moisture from your skin, but other than that, try to keep it in place as much as possible,” explains Ramachandra.

Postflight

Ramachandra also recommends removing your mask to let your skin breathe as much as possible as soon as you get a chance. She also suggests you wash your face and moisturize your complexion again.

“You should also pay attention to the climate in the location where you have landed,” advises Ramachandra. “If it is different from where you departed, you may need to adjust your skincare routine. For example, if you are traveling to a humid climate, you should be using very light moisturizers that will not clog your pores. If your destination is dry and cold, start using very hydrating and heavier moisturizers.”

All images courtesy of unsplash.com

Reduce Your Stress

By now, it’s been well established that stress affects nearly everything, from our ability to lose weight to our chance of catching some good Z’s. However, keeping stress levels low also plays a key part in keeping your skin at its best. 

“[Stress] prompts your body to release hormones that increase oil production in your skin glands,” explains Ramachandra. “That means a greater chance of clogged pores. Help your skin by doing whatever you can to ease the stress that is common to air travel.”

While it may be impossible to be stress-free when flying, Ramachandra understands that between the schedules, check-in lines, and terminals, you need to navigate (and don’t get me started on packing) that you’re bound to feel a little tense. However, Ramachandra says it’s best to pack things to help you be as calm and relaxed as possible. “I suggest getting a great book to read during the flight or packing your air-pods so you can watch a great movie or listen to some great music, a great meditation, or an audio book. Remind yourself that the flight is just a few hours and focus your thoughts on the destination ahead.”

While there may be no 100% guaranteed formula to ensure your complexion is at its peak when 38,000 feet in the air, takin these steps will help you look best. Want to take it one step further? Try one of TikTok’s best hacks to hide a half sheet face mask, such as 111Skin Maskne Protection Biocellulose Mask Box, under your protective face mask for clearer, supple skin after landing.

—Janine Silver

Editors’ Picks: Sustainable Beauty and Fashion 2022

With the state of the world today and all the terrible weather that’s crippling our supply chain, people are realizing how critical it is to try and reduce one’s carbon footprint and waste. With that in mind, Fashion Reverie has curated a list of wonderful beauty and fashion brands with a focus on ecological practices. Remember; Mother Nature always bats last.

Image courtesy of harpersbazaar.com

Skin & Me

Skin & Me has a unique and effective approach to skincare. Rather than buying a drawerful of products and trying to figure out which one works, Skin & Me takes the personal approach. Customers are asked to complete a quiz and send 3 zero makeup pictures. Consulting with pharmacists and dermatologists, the brand has created a personalized treatment plan for your specific skin needs. To promote sustainability, the bottles are fully recyclable and come in minimum packaging using recycled materials.

Image courtesy of goodhousekeeping.com

Everlane

If you haven’t shopped cult-favorite brand Everlane , now is a great time to get started. Style-wise, Everlane is famous for their versatile collections of closet essentials, from their comfortable leggings to their soft tees and timeless denim. Their clothing is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, so you won’t have to worry about your pieces fading or falling apart after just a few wears. They have also made a serious commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. By insisting on recycled materials for packaging and absolute transparency with regards to the supply chain, not to mention ethical working conditions, Everlane is determined to cut carbon emissions while producing stylish, durable and affordable basics.

Image courtesy of zerrin.com

Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher is known for creating simple yet chic, versatile, high-quality separates that can make the base of your wardrobe. That said, have you heard about their commitment to ecological matters? Through RENEW, their take back program, Eileen Fisher collects your gently used garments, gives the garments an environmentally friendly cleaning, and performs basic repairs so they can be resold rather than ending up in a landfill. And what about items that weren’t so gently used?

 About 25% of the clothing collected is damaged beyond repair. The RENEW team deconstructs these pieces and stitches them back together to create limited-edition designs under the “Waste No More” brand name.  The Waste No More team transforms the garments into a new felted fabric, used to create wall hangings, pillows, and other accessories. To quote Eileen Fisher herself “We are not a fashion company. We’re a sustainable clothing brand that’s committed to producing ethical designs from organic and recycled fabrics with minimal impact on the environment.”

Image courtesy of sincewen.com

Amour Vert

Amour Vert instantly conjures up images of high-quality elegant separates and stunning floral print dresses. But did you know they are devoted to sustainable practices? Few apparel companies have made as big a commitment to environmental practices as Amour Vert. AV made a point to develop sustainable eco-friendly raw fibers for their fabrics as well as demanding ethically produced wool.  Your order will come in recycled compostable cardboard printed with soy-based inks. They also partner with American Forests to plant a tree for every t-shirt they sell. To date, almost 354,000 trees have been planted.

Image courtesy of of reviewed.com

Cocokind

One problem with trying to shop sustainable companies is they can be very expensive. Cocokind, a woman and minority-owned company, insists on transparency with regards to what ingredients are used in each formulation. It’s shipped using minimal packaging and in recycled glass containers. Their beauty products are vegan, sustainably farmed, and, costing between $14-$25, are easily affordable. Fashion Reverie recommends their Daily SPF, a mineral moisturizer with a SPF of 32. This non-irritating mineral-based daily sunscreen lotion uses non-nano zinc oxide, blue phytoplankton, and microalgae to protect skin against everyday stressors.

Image courtesy of ipsy.com

Dear Sundays

Nail enamel often holds a special place in a woman’s heart as it is usually the first cosmetic they use. But is it healthy? The FDA implemented certain standards with regards to the chemicals used in formulations and (this is true) haven’t updated them since 1938. It took quite a bit of experimentation, but Dear Sundays was able to formulate 10 – Free, a nail enamel that is nontoxic, vegan, and cruelty free but still delivers high shine and long-lasting brilliant color.  10 – Free refers to nail polishes that are formulated without ten potentially health-harming chemicals commonly found in regular nail polish.

Image courtesy of allure.com

Herbivore

Herbivore began with a simple idea, use only natural, safe ingredients to create effective and gentle skincare. They are packaged in glass and paper, using recycled and recyclable plastic only when necessary. The products are always free of synthetic ingredients, including dyes, fragrances, and parabens. Fashion Reverie suggests you try their Lapis Blue Tansy Face oil. This luxury oil contains a component called azulene which is known to soothe dry or irritated skin, reduce the appearance of redness and leave the skin feeling more balanced. 

Image courtesy of usweekly.com

Hey Humans

The amount of plastic in the ocean is appalling. According to recent estimates, the Great Pacific Garbage patch, a gigantic floating island of garbage twice the size of Texas, is just drifting around the Pacific Ocean. This is what lead Jada Pinkett Smith to create her line of personal care products, Hey Humans. “I’m committed to the planet and strive to make a positive impact on the environment. The line, packaged in recycled aluminum or paper, is vegan and cruelty free with clean, sustainably harvested ingredients. And everything is so affordable! Fashion Reverie loves their plastic-free, natural deodorants retailing for a mere $4.99. The entire line is available at Target.

Image courtesy of byrdie.com

Phlur

Did you know the FDA doesn’t even BOTHER to regulate certain ingredients designated ‘fragrance’? Given that you put perfume on your skin, eventually it will find its way to your bloodstream. Wouldn’t you rather have safe ingredients?

That’s the idea behind Phlur. They intentionally use both botanical ingredients and thoughtfully selected synthetic ingredients that are kind to your skin and the planet. They don’t use parabens, phthalates, sulfates or any other questionable ingredients or common skin irritants. Take their quiz and order a sampler to find what fragrances work for you.

—Cameron Grey Rose

Rock It or Leave It: 2021 Trends to Embrace or Abandon in 2022

Image courtesy of harpersbazaar.com

We survived 2021!! Remember when we used to look forward to the New Year rather than breathing a sigh of relief that we survived the previous one? Well, not all of us made it—Betty White you were 99, yet you managed to die too young. 2021 was quite different from 2020 due to vaccines. (Fashion Reverie implores you to get vaccinated. More than 500 million people have been vaccinated and only a handful have had serious reactions. It’s SAFE.) We saw some celebrity red carpets come back—well, kind of. And with a renewed ability to leave the house, trends did emerge. Some were awesome, some, not so much. Here’s what you should embrace and what should be on the trash heap for 2022.

Images are courtesy of popsugar.com and whowhatwear.com

Knee High Boots – Rock It

Knee high boots started strong as a trend for fall 2021 and it’s such a fun one; hopefully, this trend will stick around for a while. Knee high boots are so versatile and a practical way to keep one’s legs warm in winter, even when wearing skirts. A tip: When you take off your boots and put them in your closet, don’t let them fold over. Over time the leather or fabric can wear and peel. If you don’t have boot stays, put a tall empty water bottle in the boot to keep it standing upright.

Image courtesy of fashionof30.com

Bra tops with Jackets – Leave It

In 2021 Rosanna Getty, Jason Wu, and Tom Ford all put outfits on the runway that featured bra tops with jackets aka the “I forgot my blouse” look. But the truth is very few women would feel comfortable showing that much skin nor would that look be appropriate for most of their day-to-day lives, particularly if you have work in an office. This one is a hard pass.

Image courtesy of Vogue India

Ecofashion/Upcycling – Rock It

The past few years have made it clear that climate change is very real. This forced the fashion industry to take a hard look at the number of resources it consumes and consider ways to reduce it. Entire companies are now devoted to using sustainable resources for their clothes. Some are finding ways to utilize fabric from discarded clothing. Consumers are realizing that it doesn’t take much effort to reduce their carbon footprints. Onward and upward.

Images courtesy town&country.com and wwd.com

Comfortable footwear – Rock It

When the pandemic started, and we couldn’t leave the house, women everywhere abandoned their high heels for chunky sneakers. While the chunky sneakers craze has died down, women still want flat, comfortable footwear. Now sleek oxfords and chic loafers are all the rage. These shoes look and feel good. Let’s keep the comfy trend going.

Images courtesy of fountainof30.com

Shoulder-length earrings – Leave It

Holy Cow, who decided to start this trend? Well, we know it was all over the runways in 2021 including JW Andersen, Dolce & Gabanna, and Ulla Johnson. Yes, consumers are willing to be uncomfortable for fashion but there are limits! Not only would shoulder-length earrings make it difficult to move around, but it could also be very dangerous. If it catches on something a woman could end up needing surgery! Nobody wants to become an actual fashion victim.

Images courtesy of beChuzi.com

Skinny Jeans – Leave It

The demand for comfort claims another victim. Skinny jeans aren’t just uncomfortable; a few medical professionals are now saying wearing them regularly can cause nerve damage and advise patients to wear them once a week, at most. Or maybe you could just stop wearing them, period!!

Images courtesy of them.com and wwd.com

Gender Neutral Fashion – Rock It

Great strides have been made with society and communities becoming more accepting of gender nonconformity. A big leap has been the trend of clothes labeled masculine or feminine are being looked at as gender neutral, free to be worn by anyone who feels comfortable in them. People are realizing it has nothing to do with sexual orientation. Candace Owens received HUGE backlash when she criticized Harry Styles for wearing a dress on the cover of Vogue saying she preferred “manly men.” The fashion industry agrees; wear what you like!

Image courtesy of courtesy.com

Knits – Rock It

Another fabulous trend. Oversized knit sweaters were a cozy, warm, comfortable—is the trend for 2022 just going to be feeling comfortable in your clothes—practical trend for fall 2021, so let’s keep this up! Knits are going to be huge in 2022 and it’s great. While their popularity goes up and down, knits are chic and practical. If you care for them properly, they will last for years.  

—Cameron Grey Rose

Countdown to Gorgeous New Year’s Eve Beauty

Images courtesy of harperbazaararabia.com

Out with the old and in with the new.  Kick off 2022 with a whole new look!  The team at Ulta Beauty has some recommendations to get you party ready—so put the bubbly on ice and check out these party ready trends.

Add a little warmth to your locks

Now is the perfect time to give your color a refresh.  “For a lot of people, the holiday season offers a time to play with hair color,” explains Ulta Beauty Pro Hair Stylist, Color Expert and educator Sean Godard. “This year, people are going warmer with a burn and ginger tones that are more golden vs the typical red undertones we usually see. Blondes are going with more balanced tones that still look nice and bright for the holiday season in contrast to the ash tones that have been dominant for the last few seasons.”

Sonya Dove, Ulta Beauty Pro hair stylist and hair color expert recommends treating yourself to a hair color glaze to “bring lots of shine, a hint of exciting color and smoothness like never before.”  She recommends you, “try some of the fall holiday tones like burnt cinnamon, chocolate raspberry or paprika spice” for a look that’s extra special.

Images courtesy of Instagram

Play up your natural texture

According to Ammon Carver, chief artistic director for Ulta Beauty, “This holiday season, people are embracing their natural, healthy hair. Styles that aren’t overworked and have a casual elegance. Bring out your natural hair texture, whether it’s curly or straight. Serums and oils for coily curls, and texture sprays and flexible hold hairsprays will keep you looking holiday ready, regardless of your hair type.”

If you haven’t already, try BioSilk, a leave-in silk replenishing and reconstructive treatment that gives hair an incredible shine. 

WOW, another favorite, which instantly gained a cult following after Jennifer Lopez’s hairstylist Chris Appleton shared that he used their hair mask to give J-Lo show-stopping shine and body.

For curly hair, Living Proof Curl Moisturizing Shine Oil won’t weigh strands down with silicone, so your curls are bouncy, hydrated, healthy and shiny.

Images courtesy of YSL

Midnight kiss ready lips

Ulta Beauty Pro Makeup Artist Deney Adam excitedly shares, “… lips will make a statement with deep reds, nude browns, bold over-lined lips and intense shine.”

For count-down ready lips, start by applying a great balm with shea butter, almond oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil to keep your pout perfectly moisturized.  Your lipstick needs a clean (non-chapped) base to make your lips look their best. For the best results, try one with these lip loving ingredients, such as QÜR’s 360 balms which are super fun to apply (and also contain SPF 15!) 

Then keep the moisture locked in with a creamy lipstick such as YSL Beauty’s The Rouge Volupté Shine Oil-in-Stick in red hot shades such as “Rouge Ballet” or “Rouge Tuxedo” to add a little spice to your look. 

Or check out Jason Wu Beauty’s Honey Fluff, a highly pigmented soft whipped lip cream infused with jojoba seed oil and grapeseed oil.

As Adam shared, another fantastic lip look is the 90s inspired brown hues and don’t forget to pair that with lots of shine for added glamour!

Glow from within

Nick Stenson, SVP Store and Services Operations for Ulta Beauty exclaims, “prepare for a beautiful illumination this holiday season!” Sharing that “subtly-glowing skin” paired with jewel encrusted hair accessories and rich and shimmering hair colors will be everywhere.  “This season will be sure to be a radiant one,” explains Stenson.

Great skin is always in fashion, but ethereal skin with that subtle glow from within look is really the perfect complement to any bold party style.  Start with a good night’s sleep and a hydrating overnight mask such as Erno Laszlo’s Hydra-Therapy Memory Gel Sleep Mask.  With its “NASA-inspired memory gel texture” and formula packed with antioxidant-rich prickly pear and vitamin E, it will give your skin a beautiful head start.

When it’s time to get ready, add a luminizing highlighter to your beauty routine. Dr. Barbra Strum’s Glow Drops gel-serum are a great way to brighten your complexion.  Alternatively, KORA Organic’s Rose Quartz Luminizer is another fan favorite and with good reason.  Apply under your makeup, without makeup or mixed into your foundation, for that highly sought-after glow.

Images courtesy of JOAH

Bold, sparkly look-at me eyes

After a fashion month full of sparkle and eyeliner on the runway, it’s no surprise that both are on trend for the last big fête of the year.  According to Adam, “glitter specks will be bigger and biodegradable, eyeliners will be fun and experimental.”

David Lopez, Ulta Beauty Pro Hair Stylist and Non-Binary Beauty Expert, agrees.  “For many of us it will be our first time reuniting with friends and family in person. The itch to show up and show out will be seen in expressive hairstyles and makeup. Bigger hair, more purposeful styles with slightly more style risks and bold colorful eyes.”

If you’re in the market for a new eyeliner, check out JOAH Beauty Make Her Gel-ous Eyeliners.  Their award-winning formula glides on so smooth, for a rich highly pigmented look with the control of a pencil (oh and it’s waterproof too!)  Their limited-edition shades like “Cin Cin” (a deep midnight purple) and “Cheers” (a super sparkly metallic) scream party.

Images courtesy of Bioglitz

For a touch of glamour, Merle Norman’s Limited Edition Gold Celebration Shadow Quad with shades, “Bronze Confetti”, “Polished”, “Chill”, and “Treat” are perfect for any New Year’s Celebrations.  These shadows look great on their own; however, if you’re looking to up the sparkles top it off with, Bioglitz Holiday Glitz Kits, to really leave you dazzling.

Ring in the new year with a whole new style.  After a year of restrictions and mandates, you deserve a little glamour.

—Janine Silver

Wednesday Sample Sale: Week of December 20, 2021

Fashion Reverie seeks to keep its loyal readers informed of great samples sales. Just remember, product disappears quickly, so it is important to get there early.

Due to the COVID-19 health pandemic, Fashion Reverie recommends that shoppers avoid crowds, it is best to attend sales that have 10 and under 10 shoppers at a time on site. And if possible, shop online for incredible sample sales and discount.

Image courtesy of vogue.com

BRAND: Theory Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/20–12/26; Mon.–Thurs. (10am–7pm), Fri. (10am–4pm), Closed for Christmas
12/26; Sunday (10am–5pm)

WHY: Shop womenswear, menswear, and accessories at up to 75% off

WHERE: 261 Fifth Avenue

Image courtesy of wwd.com

 

BRAND: Prabal Gurung Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/21–12/23; Tues.–Thurs. (10am–7pm)

WHY: Shop luxury women’s apparel 

WHERE: 151 Wooster Street

Image courtesy of stylishcity.com

BRAND: Prive Winter Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/21–12/23; Tues.–Wed. (noon–6pm), Thurs. (noon–5pm)

WHY: Women’s and men’s apparel and accessories from a host of contemporary brands at a discount

WHERE: Chelsea Market, 75 9th Avenue

Image courtesy of vogue.com

 

BRAND: Marissa Webb Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/21–12/23; Mon.–Sat. (11am–7pm), Sunday (noon–6pm)

WHY: Shop aesthetic pieces including tops at $100, tees at $75, sweaters at $150, dresses at $200, shorts at $75, jeans at $150, jackets at $200, 

WHERE: Clever Alice, 4 Prince Street

—Staff

 

 

 

 

 

New Year’s Eve 2021 Styleout

Image courtesy of theindependent.co.uk

With all the chaos on the planet, we all need something to look forward to. If we’re not looking forward to 2022, at least we’re looking to get away from 2021. If you are going to attend a New Year’s Eve celebration, please do so safely, responsibly, and fashionably.

If you need help putting together your last look for 2021, and your first look for 2022, look no further. Fashion Reverie has put together a few outfit ideas that are festive and timeless. From classic color themes to new, relaxed approaches, we’re covering all fashion bases so that you are snazzy and comfortable at midnight. Cheers!

Jacket: 12 Storez $304
Blouse: Open Edit $55
Pants: Federica Tosi $378
Shoes: Dee Ocleppo $356
Earrings: Maria Black $81
Ring: Federica Tosi $164
Purse: Salar $334

2021 New Year’s Eve Outfit – Black and Gold

Nothing is as stylish as a black and gold outfit. The color combo oozes class and sophistication. And isn’t that how you want to be remembered in 2021 and seen in 2022? For a little flair, add an animal print and watch everyone take notice.

Dress: Diane von Furstenberg $469
Earrings: Tory Burch $195
Ring: : Forte Forte$195
Bracelet: Fendi $390
Boots: Giannico $389
Bow purse: Red (V) $304

2021 New Year’s Eve Outfit– Blue and Silver

Blue and silver are the traditional colors of the New Year, so of course it should be the theme of your midnight outfit. The color pairing is both elegant and festive, and by combining chic items with more edgier ones, you are stepping into the new year aiming to claim “best dressed” honors.

Blouse: MGSM $231
Pants: Kiki de Montparnasse $210
Slippers: Sophia Webster $228
Earrings: Loveness Lee $213
Necklace: Forte Forte $208
Bracelet: Salvatore Ferragamo $255

2021 New Year’s Eve Outfit – Winter White

Gone are the rules that dictate white can only be worn between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Walk into the New Year in your winter white. Clean, simple, and streamlined, it is an easy way to enjoy the celebration without all of the hassle of getting done up for the occasion.

Sleeveless turtleneck: Cushnie $303
Skirt: Karl Lagerfeld $345
Earrings: Roxanna Assoulin $116
Necklace: MGSM$126
Ankle boots: Sam Edelman $242
Purse: Saint Laurent $375

2021 New Year’s Eve Outfit – Sparkle

What is a New Year’s Eve party without a little bling? Light up the room with some sparkle in your outfit. But don’t overdo it. One show-stopping garment is all you need. Let the other elements of your outfit enhance and highlight your featured piece; don’t make them fight for the spotlight.

Pajama top: Soma $33
Pajama pants: Soma $33
Slippers: J. Crew $25
Blanket: Lands’ End $18
New Year Glasses: Party City $8
Happy New Year mug: Wayfair $15

2021 New Year’s Eve Outfit – Pajamas

Spending New Year’s Eve at home? There’s nothing wrong with that. But that doesn’t mean you don’t have to dress for the occasion. If you’re safely turning the clock from your couch, you can still look the part in your pajamas. And if it’s a family affair, you can buy matching sets or let everyone go rogue and put together their own at-home ensemble.

Sweater: Tee Shirt Place $35
Leggings: Koral $92
Boots: Mou $297
Bag: Pinko $298

2021 New Year’s Eve Outfit – Ugly Sweater

Ugly sweaters are a good time laugh that deserves more credit. They are usually reserved for Christmas, but you can extend the party for a week with an ugly sweater for New Year’s Eve. You won’t need to add much more to your outfit; the sweater will be more than enough. So just throw on some pants and shoes and head out the door in your faux ugly chic attire.

—Carl Ayers

Editors’ Picks: 2021 Holiday Travel Gift Guide

With the holidays well on their way, people are planning to travel, whether that be to visit family, or to get away to somewhere festive. This may be the first time you are travelling for the holidays since COVID-19, which means that you may need to purchase appropriate travel items. Look no further because Fashion Reverie has created a guide filled with all the products you may need for your end of the year jaunt.

My Bevi 12 oz. Napa Tumbler 1 piece $15, 2 pieces $25, and 4 pieces $40

These 12 oz. tumblers from My Bevi are the perfect vessels for your holiday beverage of choice. Consider using these on your next holiday outing if you’re strolling through the neighborhood looking at all the Christmas decorations or going to pick out your Christmas tree. The Napa tumblers can keep your beverages hot or cold for hours because they are vacuum insulated and stainless steel. With the splash resistant lid that is straw compatible, these tumblers are the best for any holiday activity.

Nokona Leather Goods: The Nokona Tote™ Walnut Western $425

Everyone needs a tote when travelling, and this tote from Nokona Leather Goods is the perfect one that will last for years to come. Made in the US with Nokona’s signature ball glove leather and lacing cross-stitching detail at the handles, this tote is ideal for carrying all your travel essentials. It can be used as a plane carry-on or to carry necessities that need to be close by while in the car. This tote in Walnut Crunch has enough space plus two interior pockets for anything you may need. The tote is also available for customizable embroidery which is a great way to make the bag even more special.


POPDARTS: The Original POPDARTS Game Set + Carrying Bag $26.99

POPDARTS are the entertaining gift for those people in your life who love to play games even on the go. POPDARTS are a fun and engaging twist on the original dart game and can stick to any smooth surfaces such as countertops, windows, car windshields, and glass doors. This game is a new twist to your traditional family festivities. The set comes with three blue and three green POPDARTS, plus an orange target marker and carrying bag, which makes it super easy to pop into your travel bag. You can easily keep score by accessing the link on the website.


Tocca Wonders Collection Crema Veloce Mini Hand Cream Set $24

This hand cream set from Tocca is a great gift for the person who loves to have soft hands that smell good, even while on the go. The set contains three different hand creams that are 1.5 fl. oz. each which is the perfect size for travelling. Each hand cream is enriched with coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe.

The scents in the set are Giuletta, which has notes of pink tulips, green apple, and vanilla orchid, Florence with notes of bergamot, pear, and gardenia, and Cleopatra with notes of grapefruit, jasmine, and vanilla musk. With three different scents to select from, one is sure to be a favorite.

Robert Piguet Discovery Set $60

For the person in your life who loves fragrances, this new discovery set from Robert Piguet Fragrances is the optimal gift. The set includes five different 2.5 ml scent samplers. The scents includ Fracas with notes of white floral, Casbah with notes of spicy amber; V (formerly Visa) with woody amber notes, Oud Délice also with woody amber notes, and Notes with notes of floral chypre. These scents are packaged small enough to include in your purse wherever the holidays may take you and are sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Anatomie Londone Cashmere Relaxed Fit Jogger $398

These cashmere joggers are the sumptuous pant for the jetsetter in your life. Anatomie is known for their luxury travel clothing, and these cashmere joggers are no exception. With a modern relaxed fit and a cozy mid-rise waistband, these joggers are the ultimate match for those who are looking to be comfortable for their next adventure.

All images is courtesy of their respective brands

18.21 Man Made Octane 500 Sweet Tobacco Hand & Body Lotion, 16 fl. Oz. $45

This luxuriously lightweight moisturizer is essential for both hand and body. With a sweet tobacco scent, this moisturizer is great for everyday use while on the go. The anti-microbial formula keeps the body fresh and helps lock in moisture, which makes this a great lotion to use after long travel days.

—Phoebe Howard

Editors’ Picks: Celebrities Love These 2021 Holiday Gifts

Holidays can be the best time of the year when we spend a lot of time with our loved ones in a festive and cheerful atmosphere. Fashion Reverie especially loves the part when we all receive gifts! That said, celebrities are just like everybody else—except the lifestyle—and Fashion Reverie decided to come up with some great celebrity-inspired gift ideas.  Here are suggestions for gifts for your loved ones and we totally understand if you keep some for yourself. 

Image courtesy of lacoste.com

Lacoste and Novak Djokovic 

Two legendary names come together, and this is a collaboration perfect for any generation since it is comfy and perfect for sporty types or those that like to simply show off their Tournament Collection: Designed for Performance. Lacoste shared on their website that they are proud to walk hand in hand with Novak Djokovic in his tennis matches. The collection is developed by and for the champion. Breathable, ultra-dry, stretch, technical jersey tennis wear enhances all his movements. A wardrobe that combines technicality and elegance.

Image courtesy of Ragdoll PR

The Crème Shop

You must have someone obsessed with K-Pop, Korean beauty products or simply celebrities for. Founded by Korean immigrants Christina and Lawrence Kim, The Crème Shop was created as a means for following the “American Dream,” with the goal of bringing innovative and quality beauty products and traditions of the East to the Western world.

In the 20+ years since its start, The Crème Shop has become a globally loved and recognized beauty and wellness brand. With eclectic and whimsical designs, the products themselves are made with exceptional ingredients curated from all over the world to craft high-quality products at an approachable price point. Ensuring that they do their part in sustainability and clean living, the brand uses environmentally friendly alternatives. Naturally lots of celebrities are big fans of this brand: Iggy Azalea, Ember Johnson, Bretman Rock and many others. Want to have celebrity-like skin, now you know how. 

Image courtesy of Andrew Werner

Fleur’d Pins

Handcrafted in New York City from the finest fabrics to the most luxurious leathers and exotic skins, Fleur’d Pins propels the lineage of the boutonnière into the 21st century. Founded in 2015 by New York City photographer Andrew Werner, Fleur’d Pins are the ultimate lapel flowers on the market.  Our latest favorite is the Champagne Leather Ella Rose and celebrities like Tom Hanks love to leave a stylish impression by wearing a festive red fleur ideal for the holidays! 

Image courtesy of Ragdoll PR

KmXtend Hair 

Now with all the holiday parties and looks you or your friends like to look red-carpet ready. One of the celebrities best kept good hair day secret are hair extensions and long lashes. Fashion Reverie found out that KmXtend Hair has been tried and loved by many celebs including Paris Hilton, Vanessa Hudgens, and Addison Rae. It is a cosmetologist created hair and eyelash extension line. KmXtend’s use of 100 percent human hair, keratin tips, and quality tape alongside their dedication to high caliber workmanship ensures that every piece of hair meets the highest of standards in the hair care industry. It is the company’s goal to empower women to feel confident and beautiful with premium hair pieces while still providing affordable prices to their consumers, so it makes a perfect gift this holiday season. 

Image courtesy of Ragdoll PR

LITTIL 

Don’t we all wonder how our favorite celebs look so perfect in their videos or on their photos? Well, it is all about the lighting.  LITTIL is a product line of luxury, influencer and celebrity-approved LED lights, ranging from a mini clip for your phone to a full standing ring light for your office.

With high powered lights and different settings to control the brightness level, LITTIL’s range of lighting is perfect to brighten up your selfie, video, zoom or group shot! Founded by Maricia Magana, a social media influencer with a background in celebrity social media, LITTIL is a company that produces amazing products that are small, simple to use and help make every aspect of your life better. Some fans of the brand are Jessica Alba, Kyle Richards, Teresa Guidice, Dorinda Medley, Lauryn Bosstick, Ali Webb, and many more.

Image courtesy of etsy.com

Initial Necklaces

Lots of our readers are fans of “Sex and the City,” and now “And Just Like That.” Sarah Jessica Parker’s character Carrie Bradshaw inspired styles of many and one of the items that is making a comeback, name necklace. Fashion Reverie thought getting one as a customized gift for your loved ones is a perfect idea.  Go to Etsy and look for great options by Initial Necklaces. 

Image courtesy of PDA Spirits

Giuliana Prosecco

Giuliana Rancic whom we know as a TV host has always enjoyed a glass of Prosecco, so she was inspired to partner with some of the top winemakers in the industry to create Giuliana Prosecco. A bottle is always a welcome gift in most families especially if from a red-carpet style expert of Italian descent. 

Image courtesy of dailymail.co.uk

Doan’s Bakery Coconut Bundt Cake 

It is a holiday season so Fashion Reverie can spoil you a little but just enough to be able to get into your favorite outfits. Have you heard of the famous Coconut cake Tom Cruise sends out every year? Kirsten Dunst, Renée Zellweger, Angela Bassett, James Corden, Jimmy Fallon and many others love talking about being on his cake list. Truth is there is a wait list so you might want to secure your order for the next season. 

—Tijana Ibrahimovic

Editor’s Picks: Fashion Reverie’s 2021 Women’s Holiday Gift Guide

As the smoky coldness of winter chills the air, Christmas lights illuminate frost-covered grass in ruby and emerald hues, fireplaces crackle through the night, and gift-givers look for presents that will make the receiver feel as warmly loved as the hot cocoa between their palms. After yet another difficult year, it is important for many to show affection and appreciation for those in their life. Women and men alike want gifts that show that a loved one notices what they like and what makes them happy. Fashion Reverie has curated the perfect gift guide for all women, but especially those who love all things fashion, beauty, and interior design! Many gift ideas are based on top trends in women’s fashion and beauty throughout the year that the woman in your life is likely to love, while others are more sentimental and customizable!

Self-Care and Beauty

Image courtesy of ouai.com

Wintry Spa Night Bundle

As we have been mostly staying at home for a little over a year now, most women have been swapping makeup purchases for skincare purchases. During the holidays, a woman wants to feel pampered, and there is nothing better than trying out a new skincare routine for the face and body. Ouai is a brand that gained a huge amount of popularity this past year with women raving about their hair and beauty products. The brand was created by Jen Atkin, a celebrity hairstylist for the likes of the Kardashians and Chrissy Teigen, who wanted to use her expertise in the industry to create a beauty brand.

While Ouai is best known for its hair products, Fashion Reverie suggests the brand’s “bare necessities” body care gift set featuring “chill pill” bath bombs, a hydrating body cleanser, and an exfoliating brush perfect for a soothing winter spa night! For a post-spa treatment, Fashion Reverie recommends gifting “The Before Bed 3-Piece PM Essentials Set” by Fenty Skin, made by Rihanna. The set features a pore-refining toner, overnight gel cream, and lip balm for the perfect luscious end to a self-care night!

Image courtesy of Instagram

At-Home Salon Blowout

Over the pandemic, many women have had to be innovative with their hair at home. One huge trend this past year has been to create salon level blowout hair at home. For an extremely luxurious gift,  get the Dyson Airwrap, a 3-time winner of Allure Magazine’s Best of Beauty Award! The hair tool is multi-functional as allows women to curl hair, straighten hair, add volume, and smooth with several available attachments It is sure to make the woman in your life feel even more beautiful than she already is! For a less expensive alternative,  we recommend CHI’s “Volcanic Lava Ceramic Pro Spin N Curl” at a mid-level price or CHI’s “Spin & Curl Ceramic Rotating Curler” at the lowest price level!

Image courtesy of byredo.com

A Signature Scent

Most women yearn for a signature perfume that reflects a unique blend of all of their favorite scents. For an extremely thoughtful gift, take note of all the scents that the woman in your life loves. Some women like classic floral and citrus scents while others like deep woody or spicy scents.

 Pay attention to the candles a woman buys or the smells she comments on when you two are together. Use that info to triangulate on a signature scent that she will be sure to covet. Byredo is a Stockholm-based perfume brand that is focused on the deep-seated connection between emotions and scents. A cult favorite is “Gypsy Water” which is described as a scent that “awakens a dream of a colorful lifestyle made of innate nomadism with woody notes of pine needle and sandalwood associated with intense amber and fresh citrus evoke the fever of gypsy nights spent in the forest.” The scent interlaces bergamot, juniper berries, lemon, and pepper with pine needle, orris, amber, sandalwood, and vanilla for a deep scent perfect for the heart of winter. To sample scents to choose the perfect signature piece, purchase the Byredo Discovery Set which includes rollers of six popular fragrances—Bal d’Afrique, Blanche, Gypsy Water, Bibliothèque, Mojave Ghost, and Rose of No Man’s Land!

Interior Design

Image courtesy of amazon.com

Warm Winter Nights Inside

For many cold nights inside by the fireplace, Fashion Reverie recommends a faux fur heated blanket that offers a calm night and a fashionable touch to any living room or bedroom. A weighted blanket is a thoughtful gift because it reduces anxiety and aids sleep-—two assets both men and women are likely to need after this year. A weighted blanket feels like a warm hug, and any woman is likely to love one as a gift- especially one that doubles as an interior design statement!

Image courtesy of aniascandle.com

Bring the Museum Home with Sculptural Candles

Women often love candles, especially during the winter season, but instead of giving an ordinary candle, Fashion Reverie recommends a candle that also functions as a sculpture. Anais Candle is a luxury interior design brand known for creating candles that are also gorgeous statement pieces. Bring the MET Museum home with the “Anais Greek Sculpture Present Set,” with a bundle of sculptural candles created by New York local artists. The set includes five candles—a Venus sculpture, a Greek bust, an “amour” candle, and two Roman columns! There are also a variety of sculptural candles available on Etsy.com, so you can treasure hunt for the one that best suits a woman’s interior design tastes!

Image courtesy of venusetfleur.com

A Floral Arrangement That Lasts

If you are in search of a sentimental gift for a significant other, you can never go wrong with flowers! Venus Et Fleur creates floral arrangements with a variety of roses that could last up to a year. The brand’s arrangements are most popular for their long-lasting quality, but they are also well-known for being extremely chic-looking to suit any home as the roses are lined up perfectly in gorgeous Parisian looking hat boxes.

For the most thoughtful floral gift, Fashion Reverie recommends designing your own arrangement by choosing a hat box shape, arrangement style, rose colors, and writing a personalized note! This is the perfect classic gift that a woman is guaranteed to love it, but it is also unique enough to show thoughtfulness!

Image courtesy of amazon.com

Aesthetically Pleasing Coffee Table Books

Coffee table books are always a great gift for women especially if they are picked carefully to show a woman that you are paying attention to her interests and passions. This is Fashion Reverie, so of course we are going to recommend fashion books, however there are plenty of gorgeous books in other categories! The best thing about coffee table books is that many, in fashion especially, are a part of a series of books that women can look forward to collecting and adding to their growing bookshelf. One book set we recommend is the “Little Guides to Style” set featuring Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and Prada. Each book features images of celebrated designs from each house along with text about the designers behind each brand. Other books we love are “The New Black Vanguard: Photography Between Art and Fashion,” and “Bill Cunningham: On the Street: Five Decades of Iconic Photography.”

 

Fashion and Accessories

Image courtesy of gcds.com

All Things Faux Fur!

One of the most prominent fashion trends this past year has been covering everything in faux fur from head to toe! This trend became most prominent as celebrities from Gigi Hadid to Rihanna wore floppy Emma Brewin faux fur hats all year round on the cover of Vogue to the streets of New York. Brands of all price levels from Bottega Veneta, Miu Miu, and Marni to Coach, GCDS, and Nike have been covering their fashion pieces in faux fur. For the ultimate trendy gift set, GCDS created a “Fur Lover Gift Box” featuring a bucket hat, the Daily hobo bag and a pair of slippers in their black and white logo. While faux fur is now accepted all year long, this is the perfect set for Christmas to remain fashionable as we move into the frigid temperatures of January and February!

Image courtesy of amazon.com

A Nostalgic Gift

On the same GCDS note, the brand came out with a Bratz collaboration collection on December 1st, taking Gen Z and Millenials back to Christmas mornings in the 90s and 2000s filled with Bratz and Barbie dolls. Who said women still can’t enjoy their childhood? The GCDS collection features two high fashion Bratz dolls adorned in GCDS faux furs, rhinestone body jewelry, and cowboy boots along with rhinestone sweatshirts, mini dresses, socks, bras, and boxer shorts! Fashion Reverie recommends the GCDS x Bratz Drop Earrings, gorgeous golden medallions that offer a throwback while still being sophisticated.

Image courtesy of Swarovski

A Twist on Classic Jewelry with Swarovski

For the women who are not necessarily looking for a nostalgic piece, Swarovski jewelry is the best option for gorgeous high fashion accessories. One Swarovski piece that catches our eye is the brand’s Millenia Crystal Clip that is available as an ear cuff or single clip earring. Both styles covered Harry Styles’ ear on November’s cover of DAZED to unveil his new brand. There are also plenty of other equally gorgeous options on Swarovski’s website to find the perfect statement jewelry piece for the woman in your life!

Comfort, But Make it Fashionable!

Image courtesy of amazon.com

It is very likely that you know a woman who has practically been in her pajamas every single day this year, and Fashion Reverie has the perfect gift for her! Hanifa is a brand dedicated to producing luxurious pieces with bold colors and unique textures. The brand’s Miya Knit Cardigan Dress is as fashionable as it is comfortable with many fashion editors like Elaine Welteroth pairing it with knee-high pointed toe boots to elevate the piece.

Fringed knit hangs from the hem of the dress which is a major fashion trend this past year made popular by Bottega Veneta’s gorgeous shearling yellow fringe coat seen on Hailey Bieber and Rihanna. Hanifa’s cardigan dress comes in eight different luxurious shades—red, heather gray, purple, denim blue, emerald, black, orange, and mustard. Fashion Reverie recommends bundling this gift with a beautiful pair of cashmere socks from Naked Cashmere to round out the look!

Wild West Meets Christmas

Image courtesy of etsy.com

If there is one fashion trend this year that is here to stay for a while it is the craze for fashionable cowboy boots! The western look is especially popular right now (as evidenced by the fringed pieces in our gift guide) and has been worn by Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Hailey Bieber among many other celebrities. While Fashion Reverie knows that cowboy boots may not be to everyone’s taste, there are a variety of different Western style boots for any woman. Lidia Sophia on Etsy designs cowboy boots for women that come in all different styles from chic to punk. Fashion Reverie recommends the “Cowboy Western Black Boots” for a high fashion bold look with the pointed toe, silver hardware chain details, and handle calf. We highly recommend shopping the whole Etsy page to find the perfect pair!

—Tessa Swantek

Wednesday Sample Sales: Week of December 2, 2021

Fashion Reverie seeks to keep its loyal readers informed of great samples sales. Just remember, product disappears quickly, so it is important to get there early.

Due to the COVID-19 health pandemic, Fashion Reverie recommends that shoppers avoid crowds, it is best to attend sales that have 10 and under 10 shoppers at a time on site. And if possible, shop online for incredible sample sales and discount.

Image courtesy of stylishcity.com

BRAND: Quinn Holiday Popup Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/03–12/31; Tues.–Sat. (11am–7pm)

WHY: Come and get cashmere for everyone on your list at up to 60% off. Women’s and men’s sweaters, accessories, and outerwear. 

WHERE: 34 Cliff Street, 3rd Floor

Image courtesy of Vera Wang

 

BRAND: Vera Wang Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/06–12/11; Monday (1am–4pm), Tues.–Thurs. (10am–4pm), Friday (2am–8pm), Saturday (10am–4pm)

WHY: Shop bridalwear, eveningwear, and ready-to-wear at a discount

WHERE: Vera Wang, 15 East 26th Street, 4th Floor

Image courtesy of fashionista.com

 

BRAND: Isaia Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/07–12/12; Tues.–Sat. (11am–7pm), Sunday (11am–5pm)

WHY: Shop men’s suiting, apparel, and accessories at a discount

WHERE: 260 Fifth Avenue

Image courtesy of HANRO of Switzerland

BRAND: Hanro of Switzerland Sample Sale

WHEN: 12/07–12/08; Tuesday (8am–6pm), Thursday (8am–5pm)

WHY: Up to 75% off retail on luxurious loungewear, sleepwear, and underpinnings for men and women

WHERE: 358 5th Avenue, 6th floor

—Staff

 

 

 

 

 

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