15 THINGS TO DO WHILE STAYING AT HOME

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Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

Since many of us are staying at home for the foreseeable future, I know we can find ourselves caught between trying to be productive but also at a loss of what to do during this uncertain time. I think now more than ever, it’s important to fill our days with activities that can make us feel productive yet happy. This new normal is hard for all of us. And honestly, some days are easier than others. I know for me personally, incorporating more self care has helped ease my anxiety and made me feel better.

And since I know we’re all looking for ways to fill our time. I thought I would share a list of things you can do while being at home. I hope you find this to be helpful. And feel free to share with friends or loved ones also needing ideas.

15 THINGS TO DO WHILE PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING

  1. Organize your makeup/skincare products. And throw out any old or expired items. Here are a few organizers from Amazon: here, here and here.

  2. Give yourself a manicure. Check out Paintbox Nails Instagram for some design inspo.

  3. Listen to a new podcast. Here are a few of my favorites.

  4. Learn a NEW skill. Brit + Co is offering FREE courses with PROMO CODE: SELFCARE through 4/09.

  5. Organize and print photos from your phone using Chatbooks.

  6. Host a virtual Happy Hour with Friends using Zoom, FaceTime or Google Chat.

  7. Go through old cookbooks to find a new recipe to try. Or search Pinterest for some recipe ideas.

  8. Send handwritten cards to family and long-distance friends.

  9. Try an at home facial. One of my favorite bloggers, Courtney Kerr recently posted a video on how to accomplish this at home spa treatment.

  10. Unsubscribe from all of those unwanted emails. Here is a service you can use for FREE to help manage your inbox.

  11. Listen your favorite audiobooks on Audible. If you have Amazon Prime, you can try Audible FREE for 30 days.

  12. Bake up a new cookie recipe. MILK BAR founder, Christina Tosi is posting recipes and tutorials of their most popular cookies on their Instagram account.

  13. Try a new workout. A few classes you can try at home and stream online; Rumble Boxing, Tone It Up, CorePower Yoga and 305 Fitness.

  14. Perfect your skincare routine and use all of your face masks you’ve been compiling.

  15. Pour a glass of wine and light your favorite scented candle for a moment to yourself.

What have you been doing to keep yourself occupied during this time? Have you tried any of the above yet?!

XO, Dana Rae

WHOLE 30: HOW TO PREP + WHAT TO KNOW + WHY IT WORKS

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WHOLE30

I'm not usually one for diet fads or meal plans, but after seeing several friends give Whole30 a try and find success. I became intrigued. Two years ago, in preparation of being MOH in my best friend’s Wedding, I did my first round of Whole30. I remember it being hard in the beginning and feeling frustrated 1/2 way through. I realized that I was maybe carb loading too much on bananas, sweet potatoes etc. I also made the mistake of thinking that I could substitute meals for Whole30 approved Rx Bars and Larabars.. When they are supposed to only be used for “emergency snacks”. I stopped eating protein bars all together and substituted eggs and berries instead for breakfast. And in the very last week of my first round, I started to feel GREAT. I had more energy, I was sleeping better and I lost 8-10lbs total. But most importantly, I just felt good overall. I looked at food differently, I started to be more conscious of reading labels and I even adopted some of the Whole30 habits into my lifestyle well after I had completed the 30 days. It was definitely the first time I felt that I had found a program that worked for me.

I have always struggled with my weight. And I’ve done all the diets, taken all the pills, drank the shakes and starved myself through the years. But Whole30 isn’t a DIET. It’s a reset for your body. And in the end, you learn how your body reacts to certain foods by reintroducing them after the 30 days. For me, I realized that dairy was a huge culprit for making me feel bloated and causing my skin to breakout. Although I haven’t gone completely dairy free, I have eliminated a lot of it from my diet. And I feel so much better without it.

Last year, I completed another round of Whole30 and found it to be a little easier the second time around. And I’m now currently on Day 14 of my third round of Whole30. So far, this round has been the easiest. I think due to the fact that I know more of what foods I can eat, which brands to buy and I now have some go to recipes that I love. However, I’m still learning daily on what foods are best and how my body reacts to the changes. I’ve learned to have patience with the process while completing the program and to pay more attention to what I’m putting in my body.

So with having done a few rounds now, I wanted to share what I’ve learned and give a little insight on what to expect if you’re wanting to try Whole30.


whole30

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING WHOLE30:  

  • It will require you to make multiple trips to the grocery store each week.

  • You will need to read labels on EVERYTHING until you get familiar with brands/items that are Whole30 compliant.

  • You don’t have to be a master chef, but you will have to cook often.

  • You will feel worse before you feel better. Give your body time to adjust and detox the sugar. It’s 30 days for a reason.

  • You will have to make adjustments to your social life in order to be successful on this program.

  • You will also need to allow extra time in your day/week/month to plan and prep for meals.


WHY I THINK IT WORKS DIFFERENTLY FROM OTHER PROGRAMS:

  • It changes your way of thinking about food. Making you more aware of what you’re putting in your body.

  • You will gain more energy.

  • You will get better sleep.

  • You will feel less foggy and more focused.

  • You will crave less sugar overtime.

  • Your body will get a chance to reset / detox.

  • You don’t have to count calories or keep track of food.

  • Weightloss (although this is not the main reason to complete this program)

  • It helps you to make concious changes to your eating habits longterm even after you complete the 30 days.


HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FIRST ROUND:

  • Clean out your fridge and pantry of any non Whole30 approved foods to resist temptations.

  • Search Pinterest or Whole30.com for recipes to start meal planning.

  • Find recipes that will keep you interested and that you’ll commit to making.

  • Read up on the program on Whole30.com. There are tons of recipes and resources.

  • Make a grocery list of Whole30 items you plan to purchase from local grocery store, Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s (It may require you to shop multiple stores)

  • Notify Friends/Family for added support and accountability.

  • Plan ahead for any social events you have upcoming. (Work dinners, Travel, Girls Night, Baby/Wedding Shower etc.) Make sure you can stay on track but still enjoy being social.


WHAT I’VE LEARNED AFTER DOING 2 ROUNDS OF WHOLE30: 

  • Your body needs 3 proper balanced meals a day. (I’m still working on this.)

  • Don’t substitute Rx and Larabars for a meal. Only use as needed for snacks.

  • HYDRATE. Drinking water is important.

  • NO alcohol + less eating out = saving money $

  • Cooking meals doesn’t have to be complicated.

  • Change up your meals weekly so you don’t get bored.

  • The more you plan ahead, the easier it will be to maintain every day.

  • If out with friends who are drinking, order a sparkling water in a wine glass with a lemon/lime wedge. It helps a little to feel like you’re not missing out. And you won’t have a hangover.

  • After the first round, it gets easier. You now know what to buy, what to cook and don’t feel like you’re constantly craving certain foods as much.

  • The amount of weight you may loose varies. Don’t get caught up on the weightless part of it.

  • Don’t compare others results to yours. Everyone’s BODY is different. Finish out strong and I promise you will notice a difference by the end.

 

A few challenges I faced in the beginning, was having to give up my sugary coffee creamer and having to cook most of my meals. I now use an almond milk/coconut cream based creamer all the time. And when ordering coffee out, I always order with almond milk or coconut milk. Sometimes I’ll add 1 pump of Sugar Free vanilla or seasonal flavor. Cooking has actually become something that I enjoy. And I’ve learned that meals can be simple and yet really delicious. The other thing I was afraid of having to “give up” was condiments. I love condiments and I cannot lie! But to my surprise, there are lots of Whole30 approved condiments that taste just as good, that I keep in my fridge even when I’m not on Whole30.

So even if you think that you will miss out on certain foods, know that overtime you will adjust and find healthier options to feed your body. It’s all about creating better habits. And that is the biggest takeaway for me.

 

WHERE TO SHOP FOR WHOLE30:


FAVORITE SNACKS / CONDIMENTS:

As a reminder, make sure to do your own research and read up on all the guidelines of WHOLE30 on their direct site Whole30.com.

If you’ve done Whole30 OR thinking about trying it out, I’d love to hear from you! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

XO, RAE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: FOR THE TRAVEL LOVER

 
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: FOR THE TRAVEL LOVER

The gift giving season is well under way. And I had every intention of sharing this post weeks ago, but here we are 4 days before Christmas! I have a NEW GIFT GUIDE for you for the travel lover in your life. I’ve rounded up some of the best travel necessities and accessories any travel lover would be happy to receive this holiday season.

  1. Makeup Organizer - This makeup organizer is waterproof and comes with adjustable compartments to keep all of your makeup organized while traveling. Under $25 So many blogger friends have raved about this Amazon find! *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

  2. Patchology On The Fly Skincare Set - The ultimate skincare set for traveling. It includes everything from face masks, an eye mask and lip mask. Everything a travel lover needs for their next flight!

  3. Luggage Tag Charger - This travel accessory is a luggage tag and charger all in one. You can even add a monogram to personalize it!

  4. Calpak TRNK Luggage - A little bit of a pricey gift option, but one of the best luggage brands I’ve ever owned. Everyone should have a high quality luggage for their travel needs.

  5. Sole Society Mason Weekend Bag - Faux leather bag is perfect for a weekend getaway or used as a carry on tote. *You can still order & have it arrive by Christmas Eve!

  6. TOPTOTE Hat Clip - The travel accessory you never knew you needed. This sleek clip attaches to your handbag or luggage allowing you to carry your hat in tow.

  7. TSA Travel Bottle Set - A chic travel toiletry set complete with labels for all of your toiletries. TSA approved and leakproof! *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

  8. Collapsable Water Bottle - H2O on the go will be a breeze with this reusable silicon bottle. It’s collapsable and leak-proof, making it perfect for travel. *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

  9. 6 Set Packing Cubes - These are great especially for those who typically like to travel with a carry on. There is some kinda magic that packing cubes possess because you can really cram so much into each one. Also helps with separating clothing and accessories, making unpacking and re-packing so much easier. Available in several color options.

  10. Digital Luggage Scale - No more paying for extra baggage fees or having to rearrange your luggage last minute at the airport. This digital scale weighs your luggage and is compact enough to pack in your suitcase. Would also make a great stocking stuffer! *Order on Amazon Prime for 2 day shipping!

I hope this gift guide helps with some last minute gift ideas! Merry Christmas & Happy Shopping!

XO, RAE

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YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

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Year 5 of Living in New York City

This month marks my FIVE year anniversary of living in New York City. On October 9th, 2014, I was sitting in a packed SUV of my belongings en route to New York to begin a new chapter. As my best friend, my Mom and I drove those very long 16 hours, I remember having so many emotions. At 3am October 10th, 2014, I crossed over the George Washington Bridge in Manhattan and I knew then, everything was about to change.

Honestly, when I moved here, I only set out to live here for a year. And then without hesitation each year turned into the next. The fact that I actually get to call this city (home), is still very surreal to me. New York is one of those cities that will change you from the moment you arrive. For me, it’s been by far the best decision I’ve ever made. I can honestly say that I have never had a moment of regret being here. I know New York City isn’t for everyone and I respect that. But for many of us, we feel most alive here. And even in New York’s chaos, there is so much beauty within.

In celebration of my 5 year anniversary, I enlisted the help of my friend and photographer Lauren Lucile and did the most EXTRA photoshoot in the middle of Central Park. My vision was really just to portray the love affair that I have with New York City.


Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY
YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

A few thoughts on living in New York City:

  • You will constantly find yourself evolving here. Change is inevitable in the city, so you just learn to adapt as you go.

  • You eventually learn to live with less, especially living in a smaller space. I honestly don’t miss most of my stuff. In fact, 75% of everything I own is still in storage in Atlanta.

  • Friendships can be hard here. It took me awhile to have a solid group of core people I see regularly. Everyone is always busy, not to mention all going in different directions.

  • Speaking of friends, I definitely miss my closest girlfriends back in Atlanta! But luckily, our friendships have all stood the test of time and distance. In most cases, it actually has brought us closer together.

  • Everyone will want to visit you in NYC. I remember the first three years being non-stop with friends and family in town. But I loved every minute of it. There is something so special about seeing New York City through someone elses eyes for the first time.

  • Walking around the city and looking up at the skyline and bright lights still gives me all the feels. The energy here is something you have to experience for yourself in order to truly appreciate the magic of it.

  • I miss having a dishwasher & washer and dryer in my apartment. But honestly, you just learn to live without those luxuries. I’ve gotten really good at doing laundry often to keep the piles small and I usually wash dishes as I cook to lessen the aftermath.

  • YES! The city is ridiculously expensive. I mean, cocktails will set you back $14-$18 at most places. But it’s a small price to pay to have some of the best restaurants and entertainment all at your disposal.

  • Living with roommates is the norm here. Even in your 30’s. Unless you can afford to dish out $2,000-$3,000 in rent alone. Luckily I have the luxury of living with two of my best friends, so it feels more like family.

  • Although New York is home to millions of people, it can sometimes feel incredibly lonely. It’s important to remind yourself that you’re not alone and everyone has tough days here.

  • I feel like I’ve learned to enjoy my own company more and do things SOLO that I wouldn’t have necessarily done before living here. Some of my best memories over the years, have been times that I’ve explored the city on my own. Nobody even thinks twice about someone sitting at a bar, coffee shop or park alone. It’s actually kinda nice to be alone sometimes and take in the city.

  • You will forever be asked by people: “WHY DO YOU LIVE IN NEW YORK?!” And my reply: “Because New York City is the first place I’ve ever lived that has made me feel more like me than ever before. Also, I always look forward to returning no matter how often I leave.”

YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY
YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY
YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY
YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

Honestly, I don’t know if New York will be my forever home, but I know that it feels like home for now. And I can’t wait to see what this next year has in store for me. Cheers to another year in the BIG APPLE!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

I ❤️ NY: YEAR 1 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

YEAR 2 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

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20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY



XO, RAE

FEATURE FRIDAY 9.27.19

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FEATURE FRIDAY 9.27.19

It’s the first weekend of FALL, y’all! And the only thing missing, is the cooler temps. Anyone else ready to break out their sweaters and boots?! Me too. I’m also excited for all my favorite tv shows to return. So I can spend my nights cozied up on the couch with a glass of red. I love this season so much. And I can’t wait to do all the Fall things.

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and more.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

  • If you enjoy watching the Super Bowl only because of the Halftime Show, you’re in luck! The 2020 Super Bowl Halftime Show performers have been announced and it’s bound to be a performance to remember.

  • News broke this week that this Real Housewife of Beverly Hills, will star in the role of Roxy Hart in Chicago the musical early next year. Can’t wait to get tickets to the show!!

  • Trader Joe’s just dropped their NEW seasonal items for Fall. And the list is everything pumpkin spice and then some.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

  • I’ve been using this in my coffee every morning and it’s sooo good! Especially if you’re looking for a dairy substitute.

  • My go-to weekly charcoal face mask. I love that it’s a mask and exfoliating scrub all in one product. Also works great as a spot treatment, if you have any breakouts.

  • Essie has launched their 2019 Fall Nail Polish Colors. And it’s pretty safe to say, I’ll be wearing the color: “Easily Suede”- all Fall long.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

  • See artists like Alicia Keys, One Republic, Pharrell Williams and more at the Global Citizen Music Festival. Located at The Great Lawn in Central Park, Saturday 9/28. Starts at Noon.

  • Stroll through the Union Square Farmers Market to see all the new seasonal items. Saturday 9/28 8am-6pm.

  • NYC Pizza Run is going down at Fort Greene Park, Saturday 9/28. Starts at 11am. Grab tickets here.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

MY FALL BUCKET LIST 2019

A DAY TRIP TO WÖLFFER WINERY

15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

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XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 8.23.19

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Photography by Victoria Saperstein (2018)

Photography by Victoria Saperstein (2018)

Happy Friday from gloomy + rainy NYC. I can’t believe Summer is coming to an end. I can honestly say, this has been one of the best Summers I’ve had in awhile. And I’m kinda sad to see it end. But I’m thankful for the new friends I met, adventures had and memories made over the past few months. What was the best part of your Summer?!

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

  • RHONY Bethenny Frankel has decided NOT to return to the show next season. Here is what she had to say about her departure from the franchise.

  • Supermodel Ashley Graham recently revealed that she’s pregnant in the most adorable announcement.

  • Save this list for your next trip to Trader Joe’s.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

  • Recently started re-reading this book and definitely recommend it if you’re in the need of some motivation.

  • Sephora SALE is happening again. I’ll be stocking up on eye cream, my favorite CC cream and this lip mask that I’ve heard is amazing.

  • I’ve been looking for a collapsible water bottle to take with me on the go and I found this one on Amazon. It’s the perfect size and comes in a few different colors.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

  • Celebrate Summer Friday’s at Kendra Scott in SoHo every Friday in August from 12-2pm. Get 15% OFF your purchase and SIP Champagne and Rosé while shopping.

  • Blues BBQ Festival at Hudson River Park Saturday Aug. 24th 2-9pm Eat BBQ from local NYC vendors while enjoying LIVE music.

  • Drink brews from the Brooklyn Craft Brew Fest at Brooklyn Navy Yard. Saturday Aug. 24th Grab tickets here.

  • Visit the popular bakery Dominique Ansel to try the August Cronut before it’s gone. This month’s cronut has Salted pretzel ganache w/ caramel ganache inside and a salted sugar mixture on the outside. YUM!

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 8.02.19

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Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

Happy Friday! I can’t believe that it’s August already. I feel like this Summer has flown by. But luckily we still have another month or so to make the most of it. I’ve been living my best life this Summer and saying “YES” to more adventures. And I honesty can’t remember the last time I enjoyed Summer more. Although I prefer Fall over any season, I’ve been loving the longer days and making memories with old and new friends. What’s your favorite season?


Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

  • Sephora has recently expanded their “CLEAN AT SEPHORA” program to now include 50 banned ingredients and even more product regulations. This is great news for consumers in being able to shop more safer beauty products.

  • Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has been CANCELLED this year, according to one of the brand’s models. As a CURVY girl myself, I am happy to see that some changes may be in the works. The company is rumored to be rebranding. Which is long overdue in my opinion.

  • If you’re local to New York, one of my favorite podcasts “Berning in Hell” by Hannah Berner is going to be LIVE August 22nd. Not only is Hannah hilarious, but she talks about real life struggles like anxiety, depression and gives light to mental health issues. Grab tickets here.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

  • I recently received my first Summer box from Fab Fit Fun and I’m loving all the products included. I’m picky when it comes to subscription boxes, but I have to say that this one lives up to the hype!

  • Last week, I checked off something on my Summer bucket list by taking a day trip out to the Hamptons to visit Wolffer Estate Vineyard. Vineyard views + wine tasting + live music is the perfect way to spend a Summer day. Highly recommend this winery if you’re thinking about making a trip out to the Hamptons. I’ll be sharing more details on my visit there in a blog post SOON!

  • If you want to prevent your makeup from melting off your face in the Summer heat, try this setting spray. It keeps your makeup in place and has SPF 30 to help protect your skin while out in the sun.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

XO, Rae

 

FEATURE FRIDAY 7.19.19

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Feature Friday July 19

We made it to another Summer Friday! My morning definitely started out slower than usual. #latenight You know you’re in your 30’s when, you wake up and have to add drops of electrolytes to your water in effort to feel human again. But a good time was had by all, so you know…totally worth it! Let’s just say I’ll be a little less out and about this weekend, haha.

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

  • Queer Eye Season 4 drops today on Netflix. I love this show and cannot wait to see the new season.

  • This iPhone app allows you to scan beauty/skincare products in effort to learn about the ingredients and potential toxic chemicals within them. It also offers suggestions for cleaner beauty products. I’m definitely intrigued to learn more about clean beauty.

  • Nordstrom Anniversary SALE is LIVE for public access, TODAY. And runs thru August 4th. NSALE is great for stocking up on Fall clothing, outerwear, activewear, name brand denim and shoes. The SALE is known for heavily discounted name brands and makes for the perfect time to start your Christmas shopping.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

  • I recently ordered a pair of Blue Light glasses for under $20! Stylish and functional and best of all, my eyes don’t get as tired being on the computer all day.

  • I’ve been using this Brazilian cream for cellulite and to tighten my skin. It smells AMAZING and I’ve noticed a difference with my legs and bum.

  • New favorite bar - The Happiest Hour down in the West Village. They have a long list of specialty cocktails and it’s a great place to make new friends. I already can’t wait to go back!

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

  • PIER 17 has a NEW Summer Pop Up, The Lookout that offers bites, curated cocktails and views of the city. Located in the Seaport District. Open daily 3pm to late night.

  • NYC Summer Ice Cream Blizzard Sunday 10am-5:30pm at Grand Bazaar Market on the UWS

  • PINKNIC outdoor festival with live music, food vendors and lots of Rose. Pink and white attire encouraged.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 7.12.19

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Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

It’s FINALLY FRIDAY! It has been ridiculously HOT in New York this week. I’ve honestly spent more days camped out in front of my air conditioner than I have going out. Anyone else relate?! But the weekend is upon us and there are many great things happening, including some of the biggest SALES of the year.

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

  • Mercury is in retrograde from July 7th- July 31st…here is everything you need to know.

  • Amazon Prime Day is actually going to be TWO days this year, starting at Midnight July 15th thru July 16th. This SALE is usually geared toward discounts on kitchenware items and electronics.

  • Nordstrom Anniversary SALE starts July 12th-18th for card holders and goes LIVE to the Public on July 19th-August 4th. N SALE is great for stocking up on Fall clothing, outerwear, activewear, name brand denim and shoes. The SALE is known for heavily discounted name brands and makes for the perfect time to start Christmas shopping.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 6.28.19

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Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

HAPPY FRIDAY and HAPPY PRIDE!! It’s definitely starting to feel like Summer in the city. And I’m excited for all the festivities this weekend. I’ll be attending the PRIDE parade on Sunday with some of my friends. And this will actually be my first time going to the NYC Pride event. I can’t wait to support my friends and just be a part of such a meaningful event. Are you celebrating PRIDE this weekend?!

The beaches are officially open here in New York, and I’ll be heading out to the beach on Monday for some much need SUN. Next week on the blog, I’ll be sharing my ‘Beach Bag Essentials’ for Summer. Stay tuned for a full list of items!

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

  • Kim Kardashian announced she is launching her own SOLUTIONWEAR a.k.a. shapewear line, Kimono. And while some are saying that she may have missed the mark with the name. I think it’s still pretty genius of her to create her own line. I mean she is the QUEEN of wearing shapewear under her clothing.

  • The MTV popular series, ‘The Hills’ returned to the network this past week. And so far, it seems it still has the audience begging for more. It airs every Monday at 10/9c.

  • One of my favorite clean beauty brands, TULA just released their NEW Face Filter Blurring & Moisturizing Primer. It’s made with probiotics, turmeric and chia seeds that help even skin tone and redness while also releasing “glow particles” to give your skin a radiant glow. I’ve already placed my order and I’ll let y’all know my thoughts after I use it for a week or two.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

  • I recently partnered with Rocksbox, a monthly jewelry subscription. #ad And I only wish I would have discovered it sooner! I love having new accessories each month to wear and and the option to purchase items at a discount, if I find that I really love them. Use PROMO CODE reinventingraenycxoxo to receive 1 month FREE www.rocksbox.com

  • I’ve been making less trips to my local Starbucks, and drinking this at home instead.

  • My go-to moisturizer for Summer. And ULTA is currently having a BUY 2, GET 1 FREE SALE.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

XO, Rae