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Skincare On The Go // A Guide to Organizing & Packing Your Skincare for Travel

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A guide to organizing and packing your skincare for travel.
Carry-On Only!My first carry-on-only experience......Took place when we traveled to Phuket, Thailand, for a friend's wedding and planned a few other stops along the way. Since we're only staying at each of these stops for 1-2 days, we decided to pla…
 
Packing Light with MUJI - Take 1As much as I love admiring a perfect lineup of my skincare, downsizing is key when it comes to packing light.  These MUJI containers are great to help you maximize your storage space while allowing you to have a …
Packing Light with MUJI - Take 1SIZES // So many to choose from to accommodate different product types. For items like essence, you don't need to bring a lot as you only use a little bit, but with haircare or face cream, you may want to bring a…

 

// Tips on Organizing Your Many Look-Alike Bottles //

  • Place a piece of scotch/clear tape on each bottle and write the product name or product type on the tape.
  • Using scotch/clear tape as bottle labels makes it super easy to remove when your trip is done.  Trust me, removing those white sticky label was painful!

 

Packing Light with MUJI - Take 2Don't underestimate the storage power of this little bag! Wait til you see how it opens up on both sides and how much you can squeeze in all the compartments. 
Packing Light with MUJI - Take 2
Packing Light with MUJI - Take 2COMPACT ON THE OUTSIDE, SPACIOUS ON THE INSIDEI'm able to fit all the bottles on previous section (which is what I need to complete my travel skincare ritual) on one side as shown. On the other side, I can fit makeup …

 

// Tips on Downsizing Your Skincare //

  • I normally rotate among 2-3 different items for each step and I'm sure many of you do the same. Unless you're traveling for more than a month, my advice is to choose your most favorite one from the rotation and bring just 1 item per step. Every little bottle starts to add up in weight and space and it's best to save yourself the headache of dragging heavy suitcases around.
  • If you feel like you're really missing out on certain pampering by not bringing all your normal options, opt for treatment items (discussed below) that tend to be smaller in size (think sheetmasks or sample-size/pod-size items).

 

Self-Pampering Skin Care Travel EssentialsI don't skim on my skincare ritual even when I travel and have to pack light! Travel adds stress to your body and your skin, so it's even more important to keep up with not just your normal steps, but also t…
My Traveling Must-Have's Pampering Treatments Include The Following Categories.....FACE-Brightening // All those selfies that you're planning to take? You want to look glowy, right? Bring a brightening mask. My Pick: Dr. Jart+ Brightening Solut…
Body Care Travel EssentialsHow many of you have slathered yourself with the hotel body lotion only to notice that your skin is still dry? I'm not super picky with body care, but there are a few things I bring along for my own comfort. 
My Traveling Must-Have's Body Care Includes The Following Categories.....BODY-Moisturizing // I lotion up every night at home, so no surprise that I do the same when traveling. Tips: I use facial moisturizer samples that are too rich for m…
Travel In-Flight Skin Care EssentialsFor the long-haul flights (such as the ones to/from Asia), I remove all makeup and do a full skincare ritual in-flight. I also spray my face with this Tatcha Dewy Skin Mist (right) regularly to keep my skin hydra…
Travel Skincare/Beauty Essentials Shopping Guide

PACKING LIGHT WITH MUJI

// MUJI Travel Essentials //

// Similar Ones Found on Amazon //

 

SELF-PAMPERING ESSENTIALS

 

BODY CARE ESSENTIALS

 

IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS

 

Skin Care/Beauty GiveawayTo help you pack light on your next travel adventure, I'm giving away two (2) travel essentials prizes to two (2) lucky winners. One prize for each winnerBe sure to read all details below relating to the giveaway!Prize 1Cows…

TO ENTER & QUALIFY

  1. Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter. 
  2. Very Important!  Be sure to follow instructions in the Rafflecopter widget to complete the 4 requirements.
  3. Also very Important!  Entering your Instagram handle in the Rafflecopter widget does not count.  You must follow and repost within the Instagram app.
  4. Participants must be 18+ years of age.
  5. Giveaway, fake, or business accounts will not be considered.

 

DEADLINE + WINNER NOTIFICATION

  1. All entries must be submitted by 11:59PM EST (Eastern Standard Time) on August 16, 2016.
  2. One winner will be chosen at random and to be announced on August 18, 2016.
  3. The winner's name will be listed in this blog post & on Instagram post.  Winner will also be contacted via IG.  Be sure to keep your IG account in “public” mode to receive notification.
  4. The winner will receive prize pack as stated above.

 

DISCLAIMERS

  1. Please use caution when trying a beauty product for the first time.  Spot-test your skin first to test for any reaction.
  2. Winner is responsible for any applicable taxes and custom/import fees.
  3. This is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Instagram.
  4. By entering this giveaway, participants confirm that they are 18+ years of age, release Instagram and giveaway host of responsibility and agree to Instagram’s term of use.

Good luck!

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Mulberry Love // Mini Lily + Bayswater Clutch Review

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Instagram Lately // Reviewing my recent Mulberry purchases.

I'm a huge fan of Mulberry - There's something about its simple yet elegant designs that really draws me in.  I started with the Bayswater Small Shoulder Bag, which is considered to be the brand's iconic style and gradually added to my collection with other classics such as the Lily. 

During my deal hunt on July 4th weekend, I spotted a sale event on Mulberry U.S. website (About 20% to 30% off) that included some of their classic and popular styles such as Lily and Bayswater.  I shared that on my Instagram feed...hopefully all of you Mulberry fans out there were able to take advantage of that! 

I know that even with the discounts, their bags are still not cheap, but the only other times I'd see such discounts is from flash sale sites such as Rue La La with one downside - Luxury bag flash sale is often final/non-returnable.

This time, I was being very good and only purchased these two...Continue reading below to see my detailed reviews of them.

Recent Mulberry purchases // Mini Lily in Neon Blue and Bayswater Clutch in Black.
Reviewing the Mulberry Bayswater Clutch in Black.

Bayswater Clutch in Black //  Mulberry clutch is one of Princess Kate's favorite accessories, so I figure I can't go wrong with having one for myself!  I love Bayswater and own the small shoulder bag.  This clutch does not disappoint - It's such a classic piece and can be used as a clutch for more formal settings (remove the chain) or as a crossbody for more casual activities.  It's a perfect day-to-night bag.  It's also a good size for travels and sightseeing with different compartments built in to help keep things organized. P.S. Photo shows iPhone 6.

Buying Recommendation //  If this is your first Mulberry purchase, I recommend getting something from the Bayswater collection.  If you're trying to keep your budget down, this clutch is a great choice because you can get many uses out of it (casual and formal events).  If you can stretch your budget, the iconic Bayswater small shoulder bag would be a good investment as well. 

Reviewing the Mulberry Bayswater Clutch in Black.
Reviewing the Mulberry Mini Lily Handbag in Neon Blue.

Mini Lily in Neon Blue //  I have a medium Lily in pale yellow (limited-time color and no longer available) and want to add another one to my collection.  I know that this mini would be on the small side, but I am surprised by how mini it really is.  The iPhone 6 barely fits in there and stretches the bag beyond its normal shape.  Because the Lily's design is a bit more playful or casual than the clutch, I find it more suitable for daytime and this mini version won't fit extra items I bring along such as sunnies and sunscreen (after putting essentials in).

Buying Recommendation //  If you're shopping for your first Mulberry, I recommend getting the Bayswater clutch as mentioned above.  If you prefer the Lily and can stretch your budget, I recommend getting the medium size and only consider this mini version for your later purchases.  I myself am considering returning this because it's not a very practical piece for what I need.

Reviewing the Mulberry Mini Lily Handbag in Neon Blue.
Reviewing the Mulberry Mini Lily Handbag in Neon Blue.
Reviewing the Mulberry Mini Lily and Bayswater Clutch //How to care for your MulberryNot Very Scratch-Resistant // I am extra extra careful with my Mulberry bags because the textured leather does get scratched fairly easily.  Be especially…
Reviewing the Mulberry Mini Lily and Bayswater Clutch //How to care for your MulberryCarry-On Only // I don't ever put my bags (or any other luxe items) in checked luggage because there has been too many cases where things are being stolen righ…

Here are a few more in my collections as previously shared on Instagram...Let me know if you have any questions on these styles!

Mulberry Medium Lily in Pale Yellow // Part of the main collection.

Mulberry Medium Lily in Pale Yellow // Part of the main collection.

Mulberry Primose in Red // Part of a limited edition and the last collection designed by former creative director, Emma Hill.

Mulberry Primose in Red // Part of a limited edition and the last collection designed by former creative director, Emma Hill.

Mulberry Bayswater Small Shoulder Bag // Part of the main collection.

Mulberry Bayswater Small Shoulder Bag // Part of the main collection.

Do you have a Mulberry that you treasure and love or any other leather bags that are near and dear to your heart?  I would love to hear any of your own shopping or care tips for leather bags!

Thanks for stopping by!

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // Deal Hunting for Popular Beauty Brands

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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // Sharing some great beauty finds on sale.

*Scroll down to see details and sale prices of these beauty finds*

 

I shop at Nordstrom often as the store is known for excellent customer service and flexible return policy.  Also, I find great deals during their sale event, both normal ones and big ones like the Anniversary Sale.  

I do have a Nordstrom credit card, so I am able to have early access to their biggest sale of the year - the Anniversary Sale - where even regular-priced items would be put on sale.  Credit and Debit cardholders have early access to this event, for about a week in advanced of the official start date on 7/22.  There is no additional $ or % off, but cardholders simply get to shop early.

I've combed through the Beauty Exclusives section of the sale and picked out the items below from brands I love and use often.  And they are all under $70!

~ for your body ~

Nordstrom Anniversary Sales Early Access // Kiehl's Creme de Corps

 

Kiehl’s Jumbo Size Creme de Corps with Pump 33.8oz
Sale $52
After Sale $75

You guys know how much I like this body lotion!  My body stays moisturized for hours after I put it on.  I will be stocking up since this is a true bargain for this luxe item.

 

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // Kiehl’s Jumbo Size Grapefruit Bath & Shower Liquid Body Cleanser 

 

Kiehl’s Jumbo Size Grapefruit Bath & Shower Liquid Body Cleanser 33.80z
Sale $33
After Sale $48

My gym provides this body cleanser in the shower stalls.....I love its light soothing scent and my post-shower skin feels nice and soft.  I've been hesitant to invest in my own bottle because I'm not used to buying expensive bodywash, but with this sale, I'm definitely going to buy one!

 

 

 

Note: Both items are eligible for Kiehl's Gift with Purchase offer - Receive deluxe samples of Ultra Facial Cream, Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, Daily Reviving Concentrate & Midnight Recovery Concentrate with $85 Kiehl's purchase.

~ for your home ~

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // Diptyque Scented Candle Set (Set of 5 1.2oz Candle) 

Diptyque Scented Candle Set (Set of 5 1.2oz Candle)
Early Access $55

You see Diptyque candles all over Instagram, making it so hard to resist from owning one myself!  However, their candles are very pricey, but with this gift set, it's a great way to sample different scents without breaking the bank.  Do note that these are half the size of the brand's normal standalone candles.

Set includes // Baies: featuring notes of blackcurrant and Bulgarian rose // Figuier: featuring notes of the fig tree // Feu de Bois: featuring woody notes // Roses: featuring notes of tender, changing roses // Tubéreuse: featuring notes of the tuberose flower.

Helpful Comparison for Value // A Diptyque 2.4oz candle is $32 each, so a 1.2oz candle would be around $16, making a set of 5 to be around $90 if purchase each candle separately.

Great Gift Option // This set makes a great housewarming gift.  Or if you're like me and like to put together your own gift set, you can also split up the set and include one candle per personalized gift for your friends (and maybe save one for yourself!).

7/26 Update // This candle set is now sold out.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // Voluspa “Maison Blanc” Mini Tin Candle Trio (One-Wick)

Voluspa “Maison Blanc” Mini Tin Candle Trio (One-Wick)
Sale $15.90
After Sale $21

I bought a Voluspa candle (Bellini scent) years ago and have been a fan every since.  They are pricey though, so I save it for special occasions or maybe a stressful day.  I love this trio set not only for the value (see below for "the math"), but also the soft pastel colors.  Similar to the Diptyque set above, this also makes great gifts for your friends.

Trio includes // Pink Citron: ripe citron grapefruit with a juicy pink center, layered with tart cassis and a heart of subtle rose // Laguna: a fresh blend of California verbena and white freesia // Saijo Persimmon: Japanese saijo persimmon, considered to be the finest gourmet variety, is layered with juicy peach and red currant.

    Helpful Comparison for Value // Each two-wick candle is $16.  These mini’s are one-wick (about half), so each would be around $8 , making a set of 3 to be around $24 if purchase each candle separately.

    More Voluspa Options // 1 more mini tin trio and 2 more two-wick tin trios.  Click here to see these.

    *Voluspa.com sells another trio set at $25, but it includes different scents. I personally prefer these scents and the soft pastel color of the tins.

    ~ for your face ~

    Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // Fresh Beauty Ritual Set. 

    Fresh Beauty Ritual Set
    Early Access $57

    You guys know I am a loyal user of Fresh Soy Face Cleanser because of its mild nature and how it doesn't dry up my skin post-cleansing.  This item alone in the 1.7oz version included in this set is $15.  Plus, the set comes with the popular Rose Face Mask along with two other great items.  I think this is an excellent option for those who want to try Fresh for the first time as you'll get a flavor of what this brand is all about.

    Set Includes // Soy Face Cleanser // Sugar Advanced Therapy for Lips // Rose Face Mask // Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream.  All items are small sizes.

    Similar Set at Sephora // "Black Tea SkinCare: Age-Delay Essentials” Set at $94. Also includes the cult faves Soy Face Cleanser + Sugar Advanced Therapy for Lips, but the rest are from their Black Tea line and does not include the Rose Face Mask.

    Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // GLAMGLOW “Glamazing GRAVITYMUD” Set

    GLAMGLOW “Glamazing GRAVITYMUD” Set
    Early Access $69

    I don't think GLAMGLOW needs much introduction!  This set is a good choice for those who want to try the brand's iconic xxxMUD treatment items (set includes full size).  Plus, the set includes a branded application brush and deluxe sample size of 2 other awesome treatments.  The GRAVITYMUD alone is $69, making this a truly great deal.

    Set Includes // GRAVITYMUD Firming Treatment (Full Size) // SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment // THIRSTYMUD Hydrating Treatment // An application brush.

    No similar set at Sephora.

    7/26 Update // This skincare set is now sold out.

    Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access // GLAMGLOW “Glamazing SUPERMUD” Set

    GLAMGLOW “Glamazing SUPERMUD” Set
    Early Access $69

    Similar to the above GLAMGLOW set, this is also a great deal as the SUPERMUD alone is $69.

    Set Includes // SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment (Full Size), FLASHMUD Brightening Treatment // YOUTHMUD Tinglexfoliate Treatment.

    Similar Set at Sephora // “Stay Sexy Clearing” Set ($69).  Includes SUPERMUD Clearing Treatment (Full Size) + SUPERCLEANSE Daily Clearing Cleanser (Small Size). 

    Photos Credits: All images used in this story are from Norstrom website @ www.nordstrom.com.

    ~ About the Nordstrom Credit Card ~

    I feel the need to say a few words about this - I am seeing many bloggers advocating readers to apply for the Nordstrom card in order to gain early access to this sale.  I don't know how many of them are sponsored by the retailer.  From my retail days (working in the buying office and in the store), retailers always try to convince you to apply for their cards because they make quite a nice profit from interest if balance is not paid in full and it's a way for them to keep your loyalty with them. 

    The only thing I want to share is to do what is suitable for your own financial situation.  I own the card because I do shop at Nordstrom and Norstrom Rack often (have been since I was in college) and I can truly take advantage of their reward program and their sale events.  I wouldn't recommend getting the card just for this sale or just to gain early access to this sale.  Many items would still be there when the sale starts on 7/22.

    Happy Deal Hunting and thanks for stopping by!

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      Obsession With Cosmetics Bags 

      #cosmeticbags #obsessions
       

      Dreaming of Phuket......

      I am definitely obsessed with cosmetic bags.  I can never turn down a good one when I see it.  These two bags were the results of last-minute shopping at the Phuket airport as we were waiting to board our flight. 

      These are just so beautiful and unique...and very affordable - USD $15 (top) and $4.10 (bottom).  I grabbed as many as I could stuff in my emergency shopping bag - my large Longchamp Le Pilage tote - as my boyfriend gave me this bewildered look as in, “where on earth did you pull this tote bag from?”  I also found many other goodies at this airport. I must say, they have some great options for last minute and affordable shopping for a tiny airport. 

      If I could go back to Phuket right about now, wouldn’t that be fantastic......

       

      Thanks for stopping by!