Tag Archives: hair

Crack-The Ultimate Hair Care Prescription

I was recently in a check-out line and saw a bottle of “Crack”. I had to look. The clever description made it impossible to resist. So , what is “Crack”? Well, it’s not what you’re thinking (I would never condone drugs). This is a hair care miracle. Named Crack for it’s addictive, habit-forming properties, this cream does everything you need it to do. Formulated with acai extract and silk proteins, this product moisturizes and protects hair from dryness and chemicals, including chlorine. It offers thermal and UV protection, and moisturizes from the hair cuticle to the ends. And this wonder blocks the effects of humidity and eliminates up to 95% of frizz and curl.

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As you can see (and no, this isn’t me), it really does work. From the first application, my hair was shiny, more manageable, and very silky. And I can also vouch for the humidity claims. This summer has been one humid mother, and this product keeps my hair smooth all day long. Applied to towel-dried hair, Crack makes blow-drying a snap. The brush glides through hair and makes the whole process much easier. I’m left with hair that has tons of volume and looks smooth as glass. I’m already addicted. But a warning, a little bit goes a long way.

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Crack $19.95
available at Ulta

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Stress Rehab For Your Locks

We all know winter can dry out and damage our hair, but what about summer? I’ve come to realize that the heat and elements of the summer can be just as, if not more so, damaging to my locks. Think about it. You have pool, lake, and ocean water, wind, humidity-and that’s just to name a few. After spending this past weekend outside in blazing sun and strong winds, my hair was looking a little parched. Time to pull out the big guns.
Sally Hershberger’s Hyper Hydration Super Keratin Spray is my hair’s best friend. This is the ultimate stress rehab for your follicles. It’s a super lightweight leave-in moisturizing spray that can be used on damp or dry hair. The super keratin and silk extract repair damage, seal split ends, protect from heat and daily stresses. It also tames frizz (essential for humid weather), static, and flyaways.
When sprayed through damp hair, you’re hair gets the deep moisture it craves. You can also use it on dry hair for instant manageability and softness, or to reactivate your style. I really focus on my ends and hair around my face because that seems to get the brunt of the damage. My locks are noticeably softer and virtually frizz-free. It is a major part of my routine on hair-washing days.

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Sally Hershberger Hyper Hydration Super Keratin Spray $12.99
available at Ulta

If you’re looking for one thing that can really protect and repair your hair, this is the one. And it’s very affordable (actually on sale right now for $7.99).

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What’s In My Beach Bag?

Yesterday was super warm and balmy here in Minneapolis and it called for spending some time in the sun. I dug out my beach bag and did a quick inventory since I haven’t used it yet this year. I always leave it packed (even in the winter) so I can just grab it and go. I added some new items and got rid of some old (and let me tell you-some have been in there for 10+ years!), but all are essential for spending the day at the beach. Here’s a peek!

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1. Sephora wide tooth comb
2. Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 30
3. Hawaiian Tropic Dry Oil SPF 12
4. Chanel Sunglasses
5. Sunsilk UV Shield for hair (not available anymore)
6. American Eagle beach towel (at least 10 years old!)
7. Charlotte Ronson beach hair spray
8. Target bikini top
9. Radio Figi bikini bottoms (old)
10. American Eagle beach bag (old)

Because so many items are unavailable now, I’ve put together a new list for you.

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1. Sephora Collection wide tooth comb $4 available at Sephora-perfect for getting my snarls out
2. Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 30 $8.99 available at Target
3. Ouidad Sun Shield Leave-In Spray $20 available at Sephora- essential for protecting locks from damaging rays and elements
4. Hawaiian Tropic Dry Oil SPF 12 $8.99 available at Target The SPF isn’t very high but the smell is wonderful. I use it in conjunction with a higher SPF
5. Sunglasses $4 available at Forever 21 every girl needs a chic pair of sunnies
6. Charlotte Ronson Beach Hair $20 available at Sephora You know it’s my fave-spray on wet hair and get ultimate beach waves
7. Xhileration Striped Side-Tie bottom $14.99
8. Mossimo Mix and Match Halter top $17.99
I love pairing a solid and print when it comes to my bikinis-both available at Target
9. Farmers Market Tote $45 available at J. Crew I think “straw” beach bags are super cool and durable
10. Flip Flop beach towel available only in Target stores. A cool and cute beach towel is a must. I’ve had mine for at least a decade and I still love it!

A well-stocked beach bag will allow you to have hours and hours of fun in the sun. And I do recommend keeping it packed. This way you can just grab it and head outdoors-no thinking involved!

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On My Shopping List

The hubby and I spent the day hiking in Taylor’s Falls (Interstate Park) so I didn’t have much time to write a blog for Sunday. This park borders Minnesota and Wisconsin on the St. Croix River. It’s home to many “potholes” that were formed in lava rock and has fabulous trails along the river. It was moving fast and furious today so no kayaking, but we did get a workout climbing over ancient boulders.

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A view of the river looking across to Wisconsin

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There is one pothole you can climb down into. Really amazing…

I did manage to put together a “dream” shopping list to share with you all. I had the new Anthropologie catalog waiting for me when we got home and it got me thinking about some fabulous items I would love to have.

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TOP:
Elizabeth and James “Bax” platform sandals $177 available at Nordstrom
I love these platforms. Because the sole is one height, they are much easier for me to walk in than heels or wedges. And I do need some brown summer shoes…

Topshop Lips in “Sartorial” $16 available at Topshop
Every gal needs a red lip and this one is bright enough to play off of your tan.

MIDDLE:
Glimmered Ankita dress $198 available at Anthropologie
This is my kind of dress. I love the peasanty silhouette and the colors are really fun. The longer sleeves make it a perfect selection for evenings (I’m always cold).

BOTTOM:
Ojon Rare Blend Oil Total Hair Therapy $35 available at Sephora
I’m anxious to try this new multi-tasking oil. It protects, nourishes, softens, and boosts your hair’s shine. It’s next on my list of products to sample.

Rachel Zoe Belted Shoulder Tote $450 available at Nordstrom
I really want a red bag and this one is exactly what I’m looking for. Alas, it’s a pipe-dream (at least until I start working again!).

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Style Inspiration-Rose Byrne

I’ve been a fan of Rose Byrne’s for quite some time. I love her on “Damages”! She does drama very well, but she did show a funnier side in “Bridesmaids”. But she really caught my attention during awards season this past year. This Australian beauty proved beyond a shadow of a doubt she knows fashion and isn’t afraid to take risks. The sleek bob, perfect makeup, and sequined pantsuit blew me away. And this is why she’s my inspiration today.

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Simply stunning. It’s a risk to do a pant suit, but man did she pull it off.

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Another winner at the Oscars. Perfection!

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Lovely in Chanel. When wearing a bob like this, it’s important that the hair is shiny.

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This lady really likes the sequins. I really like the different textures in this ensemble.

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Not too many people can pull off bottoms like this, but she makes it work.

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Casual and chic in denim.

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The perfect side ponytail. It has just the right amount of oomph.

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At the airport in plaid. She really loves the skinny denim.

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An interesting combination. I really dig the shoes.

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Sporting the polka dot trend, which I adore.

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Perfect outfit for running around town. The classic sweater around the shoulders is a nice touch.

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Her many looks on “Damages”. The wardrobe and makeup department do a fantastic job.

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Style Inspiration-Gwyneth Paltrow

I remember the first time I saw a picture of Gwyneth Paltrow. I was on vacation in the desert of Arizona getting my tan on. And when I say the desert, I mean the DESERT. My dad and step-mom did Renaissance Festivals and this one happened to be in the sandy outskirts of whatever city was around. The family decided to go into town but I stayed behind to lay out in a dry river bed. When they got back my step-mom handed me some magazines she picked up. The one on top was Vanity Fair and it featured new, young Hollywood. There she was. One look and I knew she was going to be a big star. There was just something about her. She looked “Old Hollywood”. Part Grace Kelly, part Tippy Hedren, she radiated glamour. Now, 17 years later, she’s won an Oscar and is a fashion icon. And that’s why she’s my inspiration today.

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The Vanity Fair issue 1997. She was in good company!

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The night she won her Oscar. The pink dress was stunning on her.

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Jet set mama! This lady knows how to travel stylishly, yet comfortably.

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What a dress! She really is one of the few women who could pull this off.

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Her hair always looks amazing!

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Another sexy and risky choice, but she makes it look classy, not trashy.

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Strolling in London with daughter Apple. Casual and cool.

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Vision in yellow. This is a tough color to wear, but it looks fabulous on her.

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Fantastic in denim! I love the boots and the sunglasses (accessories matter!)

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I adore the cropped leather pants.

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She was one of the first to dress up shorts (and with those legs she should!)

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Classic American beauty

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An iconic beauty representing an iconic brand-Coach

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She’s trained with exercise guru Tracy Anderson for years and man does it show. She’s also a partner in Tracy’s exercise empire.

It’s not hard to see why Gwyneth is such a fashion icon. Her classic beauty paired with an ability to always look amazing has made her one of America’s sweethearts.

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Summer RX For Hair

I spend a lot of time out in the sun during the summer. Not only can those rays reek havoc on your skin, but they can do major damage to your hair. Your locks can become dry, damaged, and that color you pay a fortune for fades or completely changes. It’s really important to protect your locks from the summer environments (especially chlorine). Alterna has many fabulous products for your best summer hair, but the following three are my favorites.

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Alterna Summer Hair After-Sun Hair Quench $20

This is a fantastic hydrating gel mask for parched hair that has spent a day in the sun. The unique texture delivers the hydration of a mask in a refreshing gel form. It is a rinse-out treatment enriched with essential minerals, vitamins, and natural humectants that instantly restore moisture. You’re left with silky, soft summer locks that shine. Most importantly, it protects hair from color fade caused by UVA/UVB and visible ray lights. This mask is a limited edition and is exclusive to Sephora.

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Alterna Hair Sun-Kissed Mist $20

This is a super fun product that’s really good for your hair. It’s a lightweight golden bronzing and finishing spray. The mist creates all-over shimmer, infusing your hair with a sun-kissed glow. Your locks will be super shiny and sexy. As a bonus, the mist locks out humidity to tame those icky flyaways. And like the above mask, it protects your color so you get zero fade. And did I mention how yummy it smells?

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Alterna Hair Sun Recovery Spray $20

This is a dual phase leave-in conditioner. It instantly revitalizes sun-parched hair, penetrating deeply to infuse moisture, improve manageability, and enhance shine. I carry this in my beach bag and spray it on my hair all day when I’m at the beach. It smells like summer, doesn’t leave my hair greasy, and really does help prevent color fade. Just spray it into towel-dried hair and style as usual (or let it air dry while you play in the sun!).

All products are limited edition (and the mask is exclusive) and are available at Sephora

I love summer hair products. They always smell like the beach and leave my hair full of body and shine. This Alterna line will not disappoint (but will sell out quickly).

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Masque It

In my never ever ending quest for soft and manageable hair, I’ve found it imperative to deep condition. I have also found that you really don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to do it. L’oreal has some amazing hair care products and their masques rival the big names. Their “Ever” line is fantastic and is made up of many wonderful products, but perhaps the best are the masques. There’s one suitable for every hair issue we women have. And best of all-they’re all under $10.

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Evercreme Deep Nourishing Masque $8.99
This is their latest (and in my opinion, greatest) masque. It nourishes and restores moisture, transforming your dry, brittle hair into a soft and luscious mane. It is sulfate-free and contains Omega 3 which is just what the doctor ordered. It also contains no heavy waxes.

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Eversleek Smoothing Deep Conditioner $8.99
This is perfect for those gals that battle frizz. It’s an intensive and rich treatment that controls frizz and improves manageability. The natural oils penetrate hair fibers making hair smooth, shiny, and virtually frizz-free. Argan, sunflower, and olive oils weightlessly smooth hair, controlling the fuzz for up to 48 hours. Perfect for those affected by summer humidity.

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Everstrong Deep Replenish Masque $8.99
Sulfate-free and using L’oreal’s patented Bio-ceramide complex, this masque strengthens hair after only one use. It’s intensive, rich, and deeply nourishes and strengthens hair leaving it strong and super silky.

All available at Ulta and major drugstores.

So go ahead, you’re worth it!

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Style Inspiration-Zooey Deschanel

How can anyone not like Zooey Deschanel? Her face is adorable, her hair is amazing, she can act, sing, and is very funny. While her style is very different from my own, I do admire someone who dresses to the beat of her own drum. She is quirky and charming, and that is why she is my inspiration today.

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Her beautiful face is one of the reasons why she’s an ambassador for Rimmel.

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She is so great at putting together vintage pieces.

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White tunic and black tights-I love the contrast!

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Golden Globes stunner! The gown is just off-beat enough for her eclectic style.

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The belt adds edge to this lacy dress.

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This vintage-looking party dress is the epitome of Zooey.

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You know I love pigtails and she wears them so well.

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Only Zooey can wear a “quirky” dress to sing the National Anthem.

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She is the poster child for “geek chic”.

Seriously, how can you not love her??

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Pigtails For Adults

I am really loving pigtails right now. Yes, they’re adorable on children, but I think they can look very cool on big girls too. A little tease up top, braided or not, they are my favorite way to do my hair right now. Here are some of my favorite variations of the grown-up pigtail.

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Zooey Deschanel always looks adorable. I love the full bang with her piggies.

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This girl looks amazing. What a pretty face!

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She makes pigtails super sexy.

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Love the waves and the messiness.

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Bridget Bardot made the look stylish.

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Haute Couture pigtails on the runway.

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Carrie Bradshaw-don’t need to say anything else.

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Nicole Richie braids hers for a more hippy vibe.

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Audrey Hepburn inspires everyone.

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Leighton Meester channels Holly Golightly.

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My version on cleaning day this week.

It’s very important to have the right hair elastics. I love the line by Goody. They’ve been around forever and make a great product. They are “ouch-less” and don’t pull out my hair.

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Top: Ouchless Hair Elastic Ball Multi-Colored 36 count $4.99
Bottom: Ouchless Hair Elastic Multi-Colored Ball 100 count $6.99
Side: Elastic Ponytail Holder 29 count- prices vary by store (these are my favorites because they blend in really well with my hair)
All available at Target

So, what’s your opinion on adults wearing pigtails? Yay or nay?

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