Looking Fresh for Spring From Head to Toe
Spring always inspires me to take a look at how I’m presenting myself. Because, really, I examine what’s happening inner-beauty-wise all year long — and that’s really what’s important! — but sometimes, that means that what’s happening on the outside doesn’t exactly reflect the person I feel like I am.
Not that every spring equinox equals a makeover, of course. But sometimes, it’s a nice reminder that I could stand to change up my hair, or find a new favorite outfit, or try sporting a a cuter pair of shoes instead of the sandals I’ve been wearing … for the past 12 months or more.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration to spice things up, Jenn and I have got you covered — from top to toe. Literally!
Sugar Sky Headbands
I tend to go in phases with headbands, largely based on the state of my hair. I don’t have a great head shape for headbands (they always slide), but when I’ve got some serious roots and/or breakage, there’s nothing that saves the day like a cool ‘band. And the ones from SugarSky ($22) aren’t just cool looking — they’re also handmade using eco-friendly material (like recycled water bottles!) and ink in the USA by highly-skilled and well-paid sewists. Plus, the headbands themselves can be worn multiple ways (thin, thick, flat, or like a turban), although they also offer bandanas ($26), which can be worn in even more ways. The mix of prints available is just killer — floral, tribal, abstract, nature-inspired, motivational phrases, maps … there’s seriously an option for everyone. (My top pic? Electric Pineapple, pictured above, because I’m feeling extra Florida at the moment. Baby goat not included with purchase, however.) Now I just need to figure out a way to make the turban style look as cool on me as it does on all their gals sporting it on Instagram … —Kristen
Karyng Revitalizing Eye Cream
I recently went to a 90s-themed concert and, while I was easily able to source my entire wardrobe from items left over from my high school days, it occurred to me that my London Underground platforms and plaid skirt from Express (purchased back before there was a men’s side) were likely older than a number of the attendees. And maybe one of the band members. Which is all to say that I am very officially of an age where high quality eye cream is a morning and night must. I’ve been using the Karyng Night Cream for months and loved the feel, smell, and texture of my skin after applying, and I’m happy to say that I’m equally pleased with the Karyng Revitalizing Eye Cream ($70). And yes, I acknowledge that it’s pricey — but it’s going to last forever because a tiny dollop is all I use. It’s free of parabens, petroleum, pesticides, propylene or butylene glycols, pthalates, BPAs, PEGs, gluten, synthetic fragrances and more — plus it’s vegan and it’s not tested on animals. My face did not miraculously lose 10 years, but the dark circles and sagging skin that’s been trying to creep in seems to have dissipated — and that, I consider a win. Note, though, that it doesn’t contain sunscreen, so in the morning, after I use this, I also make sure to add a layer of sunblock before going outside. —Kristen
Adira by Aventura Clothing Dharma Tank and Kineta Skort
This family owned and operated company based in the Sierra Nevadas not only partners with Uncommon Threads, an organization that provides clothing to domestic violence survivors, but they’re also big on using sustainable practices, eco-friendly fabrics, and Fair Trade Certified factories whenever they can. Happily, that does not come at the expense of high quality clothing. I’ve been sporting a couple of pieces from the Adira by Aventura Clothing collection — the Dharma Tank ($45) and the Kineta Skort ($72). The attention to detail is clear — and that holds true for the look, the feel, and the function.
The tank is adorable and I definitely dig it (just look at that cut out in the back, and the fabric is so so soft), but I am flat out obsessed with the skort. It’s short enough to be sassy but not too short to wear for, say, a casual hike. The shorts underneath stay put (and are super comfortable). The pockets are legit pockets that’ll hold a phone or a tasty snack, plus there’s a zipper pocket in the back for things like keys or money (or, like, really important snacks). I’m not lying when I say I want this in about five more colors and prints. My one note with the brand would be that things can run a bit on the large size, so if you’re between sizes, definitely go down. I also had a chance to try on the Channing Jogger pants, which look fantastic, but my usual size was about two sizes too large. —Kristen
Vionic Catalina Toe Post Sandal
We’ve looong been fans of Vionic shoes. They always have just that right mix of fashion and function — and these pretty sandals ($99.95) definitely fit that bill. They’re cute enough to dress up or down (think with a summer dress for date night or with your swimsuit at the beach or pool), and the three metallic straps go with so many outfits. No matter where you wear to or what you wear them with though, they give you orthotic support that your feet (and the rest of you) can feel good about — without, you know, looking like an orthotic shoe IN THE LEAST. Quick word of caution though: they do take a bit of breaking in, so be sure to wear them around the house for a few hours before you take them out all day or night. —Jenn
Is there a season that speaks to you in terms of ramping up your beauty or fashion efforts? I still think of fall as school shopping season and have to fight the itch to buy all new everything. I more or less have everything I need, right? —Kristen & Jenn