SixtywithStyle

Tis the season for entertaining, cooking and baking! I know that I can make a terrible mess of both the kitchen and myself while cooking.  So, donning an apron mitigates the problem.  Wearing beautiful, new clothes really necessitates the use of an apron when hosting people during the holidays. Don’t settle for an ordinary apron. Select one that has a holiday feel to it. My daughter fueled my appreciation for aprons.  As a little girl, she loved wearing a fancy apron and baking cookies. Because of those memories, I have a fondness for aprons.

Not only do they protect your clothing, they are adorable! I know some of the patterns are a little cheesy, but oh so fun! I’m hoping the apron will trick people into thinking I am a serious cook!  Thanksgiving, a cookie baking party, or anytime you are in the kitchen during the holidays offer an opportunity to wear one.  I do not have grandchildren yet, but many of these aprons offer companion aprons in child sizes. So, today I am sharing some of my favorite aprons this season. Let the cooking and baking begin!

 

The rich autumn colors and print in this darling acorn print apron will be perfect to wear while cooking on Thanksgiving day.

An autumnal floral print apron adds a pretty, feminine feel.

Love plaid? This charming apron is fall festive in color.

This fall botanical print apron is only part of a matching ensemble . Now that says serious chef! Or maybe not…they probably wear a plain white apron with faint stains that showcase the thousands of meals they have concocted from scratch!

An elegant paisley print defines a lovely apron.

 The beautiful simplicity of this “Thankful” apron says it all!

 Red plaid, I’m in! This festive red plaid apron is my newest pick. I also adore the gold thread monogram. I may also need to order one for my adult daughter (reminiscent of days gone by) for our yearly cookie baking.

Another plaid option!

 

Accessorize your holiday cooking look with a gorgeous red and white jacquard apron!

 

Wear an equally beautiful jacquard apron with a snowflake print.

 

Pair a novelty snowman print apron with the available child’s apron! Time for those photo opportunities!

 I love it – “Kiss the Cook“! The embroidered mistletoe on this darling apron is beautiful.

 Monogram a candy cane striped apron for a bit of holiday cheer!

 Celebrate Santa’s imminent arrival in the “T’was the night before Christmas” apron while preparing Christmas Eve dinner!

 Calling all dog lovers! Who can resist an apron with our furry pals on it?

Do you have a favorite apron you wear for holidays? Perhaps it holds special memories.  Aprons are a wonderful way to celebrate this marvelous season! If you haven’t worn one before, give it a try.  It promises smiles as well as protecting your holiday outfit! Start the cooking and baking!

XO,

Linda

 

 

 

 

We have less than a week until that perfectly browned turkey (We can only hope!) appears on our dining room table! Ease some of that last minute stress by preparing your table ahead of time.

I love decorating a table when I am entertaining!  I know not everyone does.  Today, I am sharing my tips for a fabulous looking tablescape that everyone will rave about.  Who cares if the turkey is dry when everything looks pretty? Spend a few minutes a day now getting ready, and everything will come together perfectly.

TAKE AN INVENTORY

At least one week before, confirm who will be attending.  With this information, open the cupboards and make sure you have enough plates, silverware, glasses, linens, etc. for everyone. If not, purchase what you need or enlist a friend or family member to bring the additional number of items you need. Having a huge crowd? Consider renting your place settings.  Check with your local party rental company.  Most of them offer beautiful choices at reasonable prices.

POLISH THE SILVER

 

If you plan on using good silver, make sure it is tarnish free.  If not, polish it. Nothing is more beautiful on a table than gleaming silver! Don’t have silver? No worries, just make sure your silverware is clean and spot free.

 

WASH THE GLASSWARE

 Check all the glassware you plan to use for water spots, or, heaven forbid, lipstick remants. You want everything to sparkle! While you are at it, run those dishes through a wash cycle to ensure they are ready to showcase a delicious meal.

IRON THE LINENS

Runner/Napkins

Whip out your trusty iron and press any linens you plan to use for the big day.  Hate ironing? Send your linens to the dry cleaner for a press. You may notice I have mixed the pattern of the linens.  The colors still correspond and make for a more interesting table.

 

PURCHASE CANDLES

Candles

Planning to have candlelight on your table? Be sure you have plenty of candles on hand ahead of time. Flickering candlelight adds a festive aura to any event. If children will be in attendance, try some flameless candles.  They are very realistic now.

 

COMPOSE A CENTERPIECE

Get creative with the centerpiece on your Thanksgiving table.  Mine is different every year.  I utilize a mix of what I have on hand with a few new purchases. Flowers always work, but it’s fun to add a nod to the season. I like assembling a mixture of items. Above, I am using faux pumpkins and pears mixed with some crystal candlesticks, gold votives, and mercury glass candlesticks.  I already owned these items and repurposed them for a centerpiece. Explore what you may already have on hand.  Just keep the centerpiece low enough to encourage conversation. Also, make sure to provide room for all the delectable Thanksgiving food. I could go crazy here with ideas! But since the theme of the post is not strictly centerpieces, I will leave that to another time.

ADD SOME NOVELTY

Gravy boat/Butter dish

A festive table catches everyone’s eye.  Just a touch of something that identifies the holiday is so fun! I purchased turkey plates a couple of years ago.  This year I added a butter dish and gravy boat to compliment the look.

LAYER THE LOOK

Tablecloth/Runner/Silver charger/Orange charger

White plate/Plaid Napkin/Turkey plate

Create a lush look by layering your table setting.  A white tablecloth creates the first layer on my table.  Next, I added the beautiful grey and orange table runner.  Not one to skimp, I have used two charger plates.  The bottom layer adds some shine in silver. I placed an orange charger atop it for a burst of color. I chose a simple white plate to allow the novelty turkey salad plate to take center stage. Between the white plate and turkey plate I laid a simply folded, elegant plaid napkin. Notice how the colors of the linens tie in with the centerpiece and plates.

The table I have set is definitely more formal, but the same principals apply to any type of setting you choose! Just have fun with it!

Get organized ahead of time and enjoy a festive Thanksgiving! Happy Turkey Day to you and your family!

XO,

Linda

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Are you traveling for the upcoming holidays? AAA estimates that more than 54 million people will be traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday this year. Wow! Trains, planes, and automobiles filled with people anticipating time spent with loved ones.

Today, I am sharing a few stylish travel essentials. Why shouldn’t travel items be fashionable as well as functional? Read on and you will see they can be.

THE CARRY ON

 Arrive for your flight in style with this beautiful hard case carry on spinner suitcase.  I know white may tend to get dirty, but it’s SO pretty! It sports gorgeous leather straps, a darling striped interior and a vinyl decal monogram. Six other colors are also offered, including pink!

 How about a carry on in a spicy red? This Delsey Luggage Helium Spinner is a top rated suitcase on Amazon. This beauty provides a 15.6″ laptop sleeve, zippered mesh pockets and 2″ expandability.  Offered in 8 fashionable colors, select one that suits your personality.

THE TOTE

 

 The Dagne Dover Signature Legend Coated Canvas Tote offers up functionality with major style.  This brand has become a favorite of mine.  It’s size is large enough to stash everything you need for a flight to visit family or an exotic trip to an island. A water bottle holder, laptop sleeve, smartphone pocket, pen and lipgloss loops define its appeal.  Its stylish look allows you to carry it anywhere while vacationing.

 

 A classic travel tote perfect for all occasions is the Longchamp Large Le Pliage tote. I’m showing it in a luscious red, but you can choose from 10 colors. The lightweight, nylon, water resistant bag also folds down and snaps shut for storage.

Enjoy simplicity with the Cuyana leather zipper tote in a luxurious pebbled leather. Select from 7 leather colors and choose to add a monogram.  Cuyana also offers an organizer that can be slipped inside this bag. What a cool idea!

THE WRAP

 

 

Add a bit of warmth on a chilly airplane.  This beautiful lightweight cashmere travel wrap offers a stylish solution. Upon arriving at your destination, wear it out for a fashionable warm layer. The heather oatmeal color pictured blends with all wardrobe choices.  Choose from 10 different colors, if so desired.

THE FOOTWEAR

 This brand, Rothys, is all the rage in shoes. I adore this Rothys zebra print pointy flat. The shoes are fashioned in a seamless knit and are eco friendly. They are oh so comfy and stylish at the same time.  Did I mention they are also machine washable? With all these qualities, they make a great travel shoe.The zebra, pointy toe is only one pattern and style offered by Rothys. Check them all out.

 

 Take a step up from those gym shoes you are tempted to wear while traveling.  A simple style merino wool sneaker takes you to your destination in style.  They are moisture wicking, so feel free to wear them without socks. Try these Allbird runners in Cascade Grey, now offered at Nordstrom.

 

Headed to a cold climate? Keep your feet dry and warm with the Linda waterproof suede booties. Even if they weren’t fabulous, I couldn’t resist the name! A side zipper offers easy removal when going through security lines.

THE EARPHONES

 Please don’t wear those giant earmuff looking headphones. I always think it looks like something that the pilot would be wearing in the cockpit.  Try these Bose QuietComfort 20 noise cancelling headphones.  Bose provides excellent sound quality. They also have an aware button that lets you listen when hearing important information.

THE NECK PILLOW

 Everyone loves a little snooze while traveling.  (Please not if you are driving! Lol!) The Down Alternative Mini Jetsetter Neck pillow cushions your neck while you get some much needed zzzzs. A multitude of color and embroidery options add an element of fun.

THE BOOK

By all means, do not forget a book! I know it isn’t technically a fashion item, but I consider it an essential travel item. This is one of my favorite parts of travel. I love reading, and sitting on a plane or in a car affords me the time to do so.  I know lots of you read on laptops, etc.,but I truly enjoy the feel of a book in my hands. Jodi Picoult’s books are both engaging and enlightening.  I can’t wait to read “A Spark of Light“! Choose your favorite author and dig into a book while traveling.

I hope my essential travel items inspired you to travel in style. Wherever your Thanksgiving plans take you, I wish you a safe journey!

XO,

Linda

 

The holidays are fast approaching! With their arrival comes a flurry of holiday gatherings with family and friends.  The all important question then becomes…. “What will I wear?” Ok, maybe it’s not the most important thing on our minds, but we do want to look our best. This Thanksgiving, I will be cooking and hosting, so I know my time will be very busy the few days before. To ease the stress, I want to have my outfit selected in advance. I want none of that last minute “OMG, I have nothing to wear!”

I’ve been browsing for that perfect ensemble. Today, I am sharing several outfits I love for a perfectly fashionable Thanksgiving!

 

 

Cardigan/Scarf/Faux leather leggings

The warm, golden color of this cardigan says Thanksgiving! Pair it with your favorite ivory blouse or white tee. Add a pair of faux leather leggings and and pull the look together with a colorful plaid scarf!

 

 

 

Sweater/Loafer/Burgundy pants

Stay with the beautiful fall colors by wearing a pair of rich carmine (burgundy) velvet pants, ivory cable knit sweater and some fun leopard loafers.

 

 

Crewneck/Skirt/Flat

Another way to add leopard to your fall outfit is with a silky pleated skirt.  The black cashmere crew neck sweater and suede flats add a super chic feel.

 

 

Boyfriend jeans/Turtleneck/Black booties

Dress up a pair of boyfriend jeans with a fabulous sheer sleeve turtleneck in a rich merlot. A pair of low heeled black booties is the perfect compliment.

 

 

Necklace/Dress/Boot

A neutral sweater dress combines with a touch of tortoise in a necklace and a splash of color in a kitten heel boot for a delightful ensemble!

 

 

 

Denim jeggings/Lace top/Suede mule

Lace adds a touch of class with a pair of denim jeggings and great black suede mules!

 

 

Wrap top/Velvet booties/Earrings/Slim ankle pants

These blue velvet booties set the stage for a festive Thanksgiving outfit! A beautiful wrap top, some bejeweled earrings and slim ankle pants round out a showstopper.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Take time away from dressing the turkey to find just the right outfit for yourself to compliment the occasion. I hope my selections have offered you some inspiration!

XO,

Linda

We’ve all seen it on TV….the beautifully remodeled home with a perfect closet! Honestly, who lives in these houses with three pieces of clothing hanging on a rod in a gigantic closet?! Anyway, even with our smaller closets and imperfect lives, we can have a more organized closet. Why, you ask? I find that when my closet is better organized, I save time and can actually see what clothing I own.

Today, I am sharing 5 tips that have worked for me to get a handle on my closet.

1. Out with the old, ill-fitting and outdated

I know this seems like a no-brainer, but it is probably the most essential part of an organized closet.  There are so many worthy organizations that appreciate any and all clothing donations! If you haven’t worn it this year, donate it! If it has a style you know belongs in another era, donate it! If it doesn’t fit your current shape and size, donate it!  You get the drift!  Take time to try items on and be honest with yourself. Apply this same rule to shoes also.  If you no longer wear 4″ heels, why are you holding on to them?

2. Separate your clothing by season

I separate my clothes into current season and other. For example, I use two categories…. spring/summer and fall/winter.  The main reason I do this is my closet is only large enough to hold one season of those at a time.  I am fortunate enough to have a spare closet in another room that holds my out of season clothing.  If you don’t have another closet, try using a rolling rack you can stash away somewhere.  Out of season shoes can be stored in containers under a bed. If you have a larger closet, I still recommend separating your clothing by season.

3. Sort your items

I sort my clothing into basic categories – tanks/tees, blouses, sweaters, blazers/short jackets, long jackets/long sweaters, pants/jeans, skirts, dresses, scarves, workout clothes, shoes, boots, handbags, belts. Odd items, such as ponchos, get inserted wherever it works.

4. Colorize every item

I find this to be the most helpful part of having my closed organized.  Colorize within each category of clothing.  I know this seems extreme, but it is so helpful.  It saves time when putting outfits together on a daily basis. It also allows you to assess what you don’t need more of in your wardrobe, and what is missing.  I think I am good on black turtlenecks for about ten years. The picture above shows sweaters in my closet organized by color.  Don’t get hung up (haha… like the pun?) on what order to put the colors in. The key is just to have like colors hanging with like colors. Printed pieces are worked in based on the dominant color of the print. I even group my shoes and boots by color. I now see I do not need one more pair of black booties!

5. Hang, Fold, Store

Now everything is ready to go back into your closet! Make sure you have the proper hangers, shelves, and containers to hold your newly organized wardrobe.

Place your hanging items according to category and color.  Proper hangers are a must! They then fit properly in your closet as well as assure garments are hung correctly. These non-slip velvet hangers available at Amazon are my favorite.  I use them for almost everything! They are thin so they don’t take up valuable closet space, the non-slip velvet holds clothing in place, and they work for most items, including pants.

Fold items for shelves. I keep all of my tees and tanks folded by color on a shelf.  Similarly, I have my workout items folded. I am fortunate to have a professionally organized closet. However, don’t let that stop you from setting yours up in a similar manner.  Lots of options are available that include shelves for folded items. Pictured above is the Rubbermaid Deluxe Custom Closet Organizer, one of the myriad of closet systems available.

 Don’t forget about shoes and handbags! Simple cube storage works to store both. Try this stackable shoe organizer to customize your shoe and handbag storage.

The 5 tips I share above are certainly not the only way to organize a closet, but I hope they provide some inspiration for your closet!

XO,

Linda

I’m sure you have heard the phrase “It takes a village”. It certainly applies to the number of products I need for my hair.  The older I become, the more blonde I become. It’s a marvelous disguise for grey! Hence, lots of effort is required. My hair stylist, Kate, certainly deserves a shoutout here for the cut and color maintenance she utilizes to keep me blonde with a touch of brunette. (I provide the gray!)

Today, I am sharing the products I absolutely love for my hair.  My hair has a bit of natural wave, a few cowlicks, and is rather fine.  As I have aged, it seems thinner as well as more dry! Yippee! As a result, I have an arsenal of handy products that combat these various factors.

 

 Pictured above is my current army of favorites.  I am sharing details about each one.

 

My first line of defense is this fabulous shampoo called Shampure by Aveda.  Since it is gentle and contains morikue protein, it doesn’t dry out my hair. And may I also mention, it smells amazing with a bouquet of 25 pure flower and plant essences.

The Shampure Aveda conditioner also gently fortifies and conditions  my hair.

 

Before blow drying, I spritz Keranique Lift and Repair Serum on the roots of my hair and comb through. I love how this product gives me volume and lift when I blow dry my hair, especially at the roots. No fine, limp hair with this product! It is enriched with keratin to protect the hair cuticle.

 

I also apply Klorane Color Enhancing leave in cream on the length and ends of my hair prior to blow drying. Doing this protects the ends from drying out during my blow dry process and adds a beautiful shine.

 

Once per week I shampoo my hair with KertatinComplex Blondshell shampoo.  The purpose of this is to reduce the brassiness and preserve blonde hair color.  We have terrible water in the Chicago area which is tough on hair color. Once again, the Keratin it contains rescues my fragile hair!

 

Keeping with the once per week theme, I use this L’Oreal Renourishing Butter.  I discussed this product a couple of weeks ago as a favorite of mine.  So to reiterate, It does an incredible job of rehydrating and conditioning my hair!

 

My very favorite product of all is the RedkenFrizz Dismiss finishing sheets.  These little babies are amazing!  They look just like dryer sheets.  One simple  smooth over the top of my hair and frizzies are gone! Anyone living in the Midwest knows what humidity does to hair. These are easy to pack as well.

One would think the use of all these products is exhausting.  However, each one requires only a few seconds of application.  I perish at the thought of how my hair would look without them! Not really, but I am grateful for their miraculous abilities. I hope you find a product in this assortment you might be interested in trying!

XO

Linda

Autumn ushers in earlier darkness and a return to being indoors more.  I treasure the idea of a lamplight room, a cozy throw and settling in with a good book!

Lighting is one of the most important design elements in a space. There are three basic types of lighting….general, task and accent. A good lighting design will incorporate all three of these elements to provide a cohesive design. Lighting not only illuminates your home, but gives it personality and character. The various aspects of lighting are too numerous to detail in a single post. Therefore, today, I have chosen to focus on lamps.

Lamps serve more than one purpose. They not only light a space, but act as dynamic accessories in a room. Offered in all shapes, sizes and colors, lamps help define a room. Today, I am sharing 8 lamps that will provide an impact without breaking the bank. Prices range from $100 to $300.

Featured above is a favorite lamp of mine in my living room. The glass curves are my favorite aspect. This lamp straddles the line between traditional and contemporary.  I would use it in either setting.

A mercury glass lamp speaks rustic luxury.  Pair on either side of a bed as shown here.

 

 Use a colorful lamp to accent your space. This luscious green lamp warms up any interior.

 

 A mid-century modern lamp is fun with its combination of ceramic and wood.  I purchased this lamp for my daughter and son-in-law’s condo in the city.  It’s smaller scale makes it ideal for tighter spaces.

 

 This textural antique silver finish lamp adds pizzazz to any decor.  The handsome black shade completes its appeal.  Use it on a console or an entryway table.

 

 Flank a beautiful dining room buffet with a pair of these candlestick lamps.  I love the elegant and airy feel they offer.

 

  A chinosierie lamp is always a classic. It works equally well in traditional or contemporary decor. The squared shape of this lamp adds interest.

 A terracotta lamp shines in its simple beauty.  The textured white finish offers a perfect fit for a cozy family room or an all white bedroom.

 

Consider lamps an accessory for your home.  The options are endless! I hope you are inspired to add some character to your home with great lamps!

XO,

Linda

Is there anything better than a cashmere sweater on a cold day? Cashmere provides a warm, soft layer to chase away the chills.  I, for one, covet the feeling of being cuddled in its warmth.  I own many cashmere sweaters in an array of colors and styles.  It is the perfect knit for late fall and winter in Chicago.

Cashmere is universally popular and available in a variety of colors, styles and price points.  It also makes a fabulous gift. Today, I am sharing some of my favorite, reasonably priced cashmere sweaters for this year.

 

THE BASIC

 

This beautiful heather grey cashmere v-neck from Everlane is a must.  Offered at only $100 (it retails for $215),  is also available in 8 other colors.

 

 

A black crewneck cashmere sweater should be part of everyone’s winter wardrobe.  Wear it with jeans, any color pant, a skirt, or under a blazer. Slide it over your favorite blouse or turtleneck on a chillier day. Add a scarf or jewelry to finish the look. This sweater is available to purchase at 50% off  through 10/31/18.  It is offered in 11 colors.

 

Keep this cashmere cardigan handy to throw on when needed.  I like the idea of a longer open front cardigan vs. a short button front. I am showing it above in navy, which is growing in popularity.  It is also offered in dark grey heather and black.  I love it with skinny jeans, as shown here, or leggings.

 

This mockneck cable cashmere sweater in ivory speaks luxury. It would look equally beautiful dressed up or down. Porcelain blue heather and greystone heather are also options in this lovely sweater. This sweater is currently 30% off through 10/28/18.

 

 

THE COLORFUL

 

J Crew has 22 colors of cashmere crewnecks. The colorful sweater shown here in neon peony is perfect for brightening up a cold, grey day. Offered at $98, why not buy several colors?

 

 

I love the idea of this beautiful cashmere sweater paired with winter white.  The portrait collar is flattering and the length is great with leggings also. You will find it 30% off through 10/28/18. It is available in 6 colors.

 

 

 

Who doesn’t want a red sweater for the holidays? This darling cashmere sweater with the fun scallops adds a festive touch to any holiday outfit. It is currently on sale through 10/29/18.

 

THE NOVELTY

 

 

Let this great bell sleeved cashmere sweater be the centerpiece of your outfit.  Pair with some fabulous jeans for a fun night out while staying cozy and warm.

 

Color blocking offers a unique cashmere look. This turtleneck is perfect for a relaxing weekend brunch or apres ski.

 

A cashmere hoodie is so luxurious. This soft heather iris color elevates its look.  It’s perfect on a plane for escapes to warmer climates. This luscious sweater is currently on sale until 10/29/18, and is offered in 4 colors.

 

With cold weather closing in, its time to cozy up to some cashmere sweaters.  Those shown above are just a small sampling of the gorgeous, colorful, soft and warm choices of this knit available.  I hope you are inspired to add some cashmere to your wardrobe!

XO

Linda

Ok, I Know!  Yoga is a noun, not a verb! I am now officially addicted to yoga! About six months ago I decided to give yoga a try after a 20 year absence from it. Neck and shoulder pain as well as a complete lack of flexibility encouraged me to try something new. I must admit, at first I found the yoga moves difficult. I never have much liked “the plank”! My instructor showed me ways to adapt some of the moves to ease into the practice of yoga gradually.

Starting the practice of yoga is not difficult.  All that is required is a yoga mat and some comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Sign up for a local class, buy a yoga DVD, or check out yoga offerings on TV. Choose something that fits your lifestyle.

In my opinion a yoga mat is a necessity.  It has a sticky surface.  This allows the mat to adhere to the floor so it doesn’t move while you are in various yoga poses. I like the 5mm ones which are a little thicker to pad my knees. Try this  yoga mat 

 

Of course you need something to carry that yoga mat in. I do not have this case, but I love it!

 

 

I prefer breathable, fitted leggings so my pants don’t restrict my movements. I am wearing this pair of 7/8 leggings.

 

I like looser fitted long sleeved tops as I tend to be cold. I often layer it over a tank in case I need to remove it. The one I am wearing is from my health club.  Here is a similar top.

 

Speaking of layering, I love this asymmetrical top. It is from the athletic line EleVen by Venus Williams. I may need to order it!

Regardless of what you choose to wear, yoga is a fabulous form of exercise and meditation. Lots has been published about the medical benefits of yoga. Although I am not a medical professional, I can say I have experienced many benefits in my new practice of yoga. Below I am sharing just a few of them.

INCREASED FLEXIBILITY

This fact is one of the biggest bonuses to me. My muscles are much looser. Simple movements are much easier. I experience less tension in all of my muscles, especially my neck, shoulders and back.  Loose muscles = less pain. I even notice an improvement in my golf game because my movements are more fluid.

STRONGER CORE

Yoga is excellent for strengthening our core.  A strong core protects our back. My core is much stronger than when I started yoga 6 months ago. Yes, the dreaded plank has really made a difference. My belly appears a little more taught, which I thought was an impossibility. I also experience fewer incidents of back pain.

IMPROVED MUSCLE TONE

Who doesn’t want improved muscle tone? I do lift weights, but have always envied the long lean muscles of yoga practitioners. I am beginning to notice muscle definition in areas I hadn’t before. Yoga isn’t all about stretching, it is a great source of strength training. Yoga engages muscles in a unique way that may not be possible with weight training.

IMPROVED BALANCE

Having good balance as we age is extremely important.  We all know the dangers of a fall as a senior.  Almost every yoga pose is an exercise in balance.  Various muscles work together in every yoga pose.  I wobble with much less frequency than I used to. I am encouraged that what I work on now is providing a solid foundation for my future as I age.

STRESS RELIEF

This benefit is a biggie! I can’t begin to tell you how peaceful I feel when I leave my yoga class. Stress impacts our health in every possible way. The deep breathing and mindfulness that accompany the practice of yoga offers a serene sense of calm.

 

Are you encouraged to give Yoga a try? The benefits of yoga I shared are only a few of the myriad it offers.  I currently participate in Yoga Flow, where yoga poses flow from one to another while synchronizing breathing. However, there are many types of yoga practice to choose from, including gentle yoga and chair yoga. I hope you consider adding yoga to your lifestyle!

XO

Linda

 

 

 

I know we read about these things all the time in beauty and style magazines, but I have selected my very favorite drugstore items for those of us who are more “mature”!  Pictured above are products I use on a regular basis and LOVE! This is not a complete list of every drugstore product I use, but my opinion of  real winners. It isn’t always necessary to spend exorbitant amounts on a product to see results. In fact, many of the products I use are recommended by dermatologists and aestheticians. When I selected these items I had to laugh…. most have something to do with moisture. I seem to be dry from head to toe!  With that said, I am sharing my thoughts on each of these, and how I personally have found them beneficial.

This facial cleanser works wonders for removing all makeup, including mascara.  I have used this for over 3 years and always find my face feels clean and fresh without being dried out. I don’t use eye makeup remover anymore as it irritates my eyes.  This cleanser eliminates that need for me. I also like the easy to use pump.

The product description indicates it is hypoallergenic and its ingredients are 86% naturally derived.

 

In the evenings after my face is clean, I apply a light layer of the Roc Retinol Correction Deep Wrinkle Serum. I have sensitive skin, so for me retinol is best used only in the evening.   If you are new to Retinol, take it slowly as it causes some redness and peeling. However, the benefits are fabulous! Be patient for results which can take several weeks. My skin definitely is smoother and more radiant as a result.  A word of advice…. this does not eliminate wrinkles, but offers more subtle benefits. I find its finest attribute is that my skin looks and feels healthy.

The product description indicates it includes retinol, magnesium, zinc and copper. It is non-comedogenic. Expect a lightweight serum and not a cream.

 

 

I have perpetually dry lips. I am the weird person regularly applying lip balm to my lips. In fact, lip balm goes on top of almost every lipstick I wear.  To help fight my dry lips I swear by Aquaphor Immediate Relief. I apply it every night before I go to sleep. I also keep one in my handbag for use during the day.  It definitely makes my lips feel and appear more moist.  Goodbye chapped lips! I have tried many brands and prefer this one over others.

The product description indicates it contains vitamins, shea butter and chamomile essence.  It is fragrance free and paraben free.

 

 

Of course I have dry hair.  I have it to match the rest of my dry body! Once or twice per week I apply this L’Oreal Ever Creme Renourishing Butter hair mask.  After I have shampooed ,  I apply the mask and wait 3 to 5 minutes and then rinse it out. Amazingly my hair comes out silky and smooth.  A friend, who has beautiful hair, turned me on to this product. My dry hair now has hope! It also has a lovely scent.

The product description indicates it is sulfate free and contains gardenia and flower oils.

 

Continuing with the dry theme,  a rich body moisturizer is a necessity for me! My dry, sensitive skin adores CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.  I am not shy when I liberally apply it after a shower.  It absorbs nicely and leaves my skin silky smooth. Our cold Midwestern winters really dry out the skin, so this product is an absolute must. Dermatologists often recommend this brand as well. I also appreciate it being fragrance free.

The product description indicates it contains three essential ceremides  1,3, and 6-11.  It is non-comedogenic and fragrance free.  The hyaluronic acid it contains helps it to retain skin’s moisture.

 

 

Our faces look better with a touch of foundation, so why not our legs? We are heading out of bare leg season, but travel to warmer climates is hopefully in our calendar for this winter. The Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs is a staple in my repertoire when my legs are bare. This product is a miracle in a can for legs. It not only adds color, but hides veins, age spots, etc. I spray it lightly and rub it for an even finish to provide flawless legs. Do this in a tub or shower as it can get on surrounding surfaces. Let it dry completely before dressing and voila!

I use the medium glow, but it is also available in fair and deep colors. If the spray challenges you, try the tube makeup they also offer.

 

 

Everyone loves a beautiful white smile!  Whitening our teeth provides one of the easiest ways to appear more youthful.  All those years of stains build up over time.  I am a devoted user of Crest Whitestrips.  After many years of whitening my teeth, I only need to occasionally use the strips to maintain my teeth’s white color.  I LOVE this product. My first foray into teeth whitening involved dental made trays that I had to squirt liquid into. Wow, have we come a long way?! These strips adhere easily to my teeth and whiten when worn as recommended.

Crest Whitestrips are offered in many different formulations.  I honestly use whatever my drugstore has in stock when I want them.

 

Wow! Seven drugstore products I can’t live without.  I could add more, but these are definitely keepers.  I hope you discover a great new drugstore product out of this list you would like to try.

XO

Linda