Everything I put on my face during a 3-day winter getaway

February 22, 2018February 22, 2018 by gemilbourne ♥ 3 Comments

I know that spring may be peeking its sunny self out occasionally, but the harsh reality is this–winter is still very much here, and our fully skinned selves are still suffering the consequences. I went upstate New York this weekend (to a lovely mountain range called the Adirondacks) and had many a conversation about skincare with my companions. Heated dinner discussions, let me tell you. I shared my beauty routine with them, and thought, “Hey! why not on Steeped in Style too?”

If I had a personal skincare mantra, which who am I kidding–I do–it would most definitely be “Do the Dew”.Basically I want my skin to be plump, moisturized, and dewy at all times. A full face of skincare over makeup is my mecca. If I look like a fresh-faced 18 year old girl with maybe a touch of light makeup then I’m doing my job right. A skincare routine in summer versus winter are certainly different in terms of focus, and problem “areas” but this winter I’ve really gotten it down pat with some new products in my arsenal.

Here’s what I’ve been doing recently. Let me know if you’ve tried any of these products or want to see more of my daily skincare explorations. Believe me, I’m a big on new products, so I’m always up to try something new.

AM ROUTINE

Cleanse with DHC Deep Cleansing Oil. I’m usually about a two part cleanse which starts with an oil, since I err on the oily combo side of skin types, and this oil is soothing enough to use year round. In the am, it’s gentle enough to prep the skin for more moisture, as well as remove any of the evening products I applied 9 hours before.

Tone with Thayer’s Witch Hazel Rosewater and Aloe Vera. To simultaneously cleanse, and calm the skin, I usually tone AM and PM. The goal is to remove any left over makeup or product, and to prep the skin for any serums/active ingredients I add next. I’ve gone through countless bottles of this stuff plus it smells divine, and is all natural!

Apply a blend of the Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid + B5 and SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. This is where the magic happens. Hyaluronic acid is a all-star moisturizer, that penetrates both surface and deep layers of the dermis. Vitamin C, and Ferulic Acid are key to fight free radicals, prevent aging, and even out skin tone. Seriously, this acid has changed the overall tone, and texture of my skin since I’ve started using it. Note, you need to wear sunscreen (always) but especially after using any Vitamin C containing products as your skin can be more sensitive to UV rays. I dot a bit of these Mario Badescu Cellufirm drops around my eye areas to add a bit more of targeted moisture.

Give a few moments to let the products soak in, and then palm mix Avene Tolerance Extreme Creme and Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum Sunscreen. I LOVE this combo of dreamy products. The Avene creme is non-scented, and is loaded with mineral spring thermal water so it is extremely calming. I’m prone to redness and irritation in the wintertime so this has saved me from unevenness and any seasonal flakiness. This sunscreen is free from chemical ingredients, and also helps to fight acne, redness, and irritation. These products blend beautifully, and help to plump up the skin.

MAKEUP IS JUST THE ICING

Conceal with Nars Creamy Concealer. I spot cover any blemishes, under my eyes, and around my nose, but otherwise like to let my skin tone shine through. I add a bit to my natural flush with RMS Lip2Cheek in Demure. OBSESSED with this product. It blends so beautifully on both the apples of cheeks, eyelids (if you’re into that too), and the lips. I also topped off the lips with some LipStick Queen Frog Prince which adapts to the pH of your lips and settles into a lovely custom pinky hue.

Fill out brows with NYX Micro Brow Pencil and brow gel. I previously was a loyal Anastasia brow pencil user but that stuff is pricey (32 ish bucks) and I ran through it almost every two months. The NYX version is 1/3 less and works just as well. After I line, and spot fill, I like to brush up ‘dem brows. Right now I’m using the dregs of Glossier BoyBrow, and Maybelline Brow Precise Fiber (kinda eh about this product, so no link). Lastly I throw on some mascara, again not loyal to one product, but right now am finishing up a Benefit They’re Real tube. For touch ups through out the day, or after a winter activity outside, I like a spritz of Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Cucumber and Green Tea.

An interruption for photographic evidence of said skin care and beauty routine in real time

winter skin

Lots of snowshoeing, and ice skating ensued!

PM ROUTINE

Wash and tone again with the above mentioned products. Blend the Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid mentioned above with Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Gel. Acids are very hot right now in the beauty community and rightfully so! They gently slough off dead skin cells, clear congested pores, and reveal new, even skin. This product is gentle enough to use every day but for me I typically use a few times a week to not overdo it. You can use a chemical exfoliant like a BHA instead of a physical exfoliant, like a sugar scrub or anything physically removing skin cells from the surface.

To really seal in the applied products, I like to top things off with a facial oil. The Ordinary 100% Rose Hip Seed Oil is newer to my routine but working well- Rose Hip seed is especially known for it’s anti-aging properties, as well as reducing fine lines, scars, and inflammatory conditions like acne, or eczema.

Finally, I top off my routine with a glorious lip treatment mask that I adore. This Laneige Sleeping Lip Mask sounds ridiculous but really makes a difference for seasonally dry lips (we’re all suffering). Put on a thin layer nightly and I swear you won’t have any irritation all winter long. I offer this to any guests sleeping over and everyone has loved it.

Phew! I’m ready for a nap after that rundown. If you made it this far down, congrats you must be a skin-care junkie just like me, please please let me know if you want any more information on any of the products mentioned above, or have been trying out something that’s worth sharing! All products should be linked, but let me know if you’re having trouble tracking anything down. Thanks for reading!

The Doc (Marten) is in

February 13, 2018 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

(Adorable high/low look here … getting Margot vibes from the Royal Tenenbaums)

If you’re close with me in real-life you’re probably like, “what? where is this whole homage to Doc Martens coming from? All this from our classic-loving, sometimes bohemian/trendy Grace?” Guys. The thing about style, and what looks you are drawn too often times defy boundaries, and rules.

As a principle, I hate rules, specifically “fashion” rules. It may be a product of living in downtown Manhattan for over three years now, but everyday I witness outfit combinations that make me stop, think, and smile. Fashion doesn’t have to check boxes, or make sense. Sometimes an item is just fuel for the proverbial shopping fire, and this friends, is Doc Martens for me right now. No, I don’t have a pair. Yet.

So what’s the deal with Doc Martens?

They’ve been around forever. In fact, your aunt, or older sister, may have a pair in the back of her closet. These are tried and true boots, that have been around since the late 1950’s. Originally created for the military and factory workers to wear, these things are durable, and up for a long-term relationship with you and wherever you’re walking. Happy trails, are definitely, afoot.

They have history with social movements. Some garments get tied up with social movements and history, and become icons. Joining the ranks of the LBD (“little black dress”), Levi’s, and trench coats, are Doc Martens. In fact, the company prides itself on “rebellious self-expression” especially through music, and was linked with the punk, new-wave, youth in Great Britain from 1960’s up until today’s music festival culture.

Today, they are worn by the self-expressive. How to wear a pair are really limitless–I’ve been toying with getting a pair to double as boots for snow, just as much as for dressing down a more traditional outfit. I’ve gathered some of the most inspired looks I could, and a few patterns emerged. Take note!

Untucked top + Long skirt + High boots

Grey sweater + Docs

Overalls + Stripes + Docs (This combo is so casual and playful, it really kills me)

All-Black Look (hello, NYC, you’re already doing this from the head to ankle … just add the shoes!)

I admit I’m late to the Marten party–so now it’s your turn. Tell me–are you already wearing a pair? How? As always thanks for following along with Steeped in Style, I love sharing my thoughts with you all. If you’re not, follow along on Instagram @steepedinstyle, or through my Facebook page here.

Life’s always a picnic: Basket bag roundup

February 6, 2018February 6, 2018 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Women’s Boho Clothing & Bohemian Fashion | Free People /

Clutch / Small item storage / Straw round crossbody bag

Just breezing through to talk about the resurgence of my woven basket obsession (I just can’t stop, I adore them all!). I have to thank a roundup on Who What Wear, when I spotted the metal basket from Zara, tried to stay away, and then two weeks lately giddily purchased. The whole aesthetic just jives with mine, I can’t really fight it–the selection above hit such whimsical, casual, and slightly romantic notes that I just want to keep singing and singing. Plus, texture in an garment or accessory always always (always!) adds more appeal to your outfit, and bonus, makes things look more expensive.

The whole woven Belly Bag phenom was real in Summer 2017 (See here that the Doen $28 dollar version is still sold out) … it was like downtown Manhattan was an homage to the French countryside or something. Now as we’re starting to think of our Spring/Summer wardrobes, there are even more options, from fast-fashion outlets, to smaller boutiques on Etsy.

Personally, I’m very intrigued by the plastic options from the British company Sun Jellies — so fresh and unfussy–perfect for a beach/park/wherever a long Sunday afternoon takes you. You can purchase directly from their site, or from UO or Free People.

These two cuties below are from Zara here and here.

Tell me I’m not alone in my obsession … or if so, there’s more for me. As always let me know what you’re shopping for this season. Thanks for following and if you’re new lets be friends on Instagram too. You can find me at @Steepedinstyle.

Kissing the sun for 60 minutes: an infrared sauna review

February 3, 2018February 2, 2018 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

I’m one of those people who would try mostly anything in the name of Health and Wellness. Testing out chlorophyll water? Check. Epsom salt baths? With relish. You get the point. So when one of my friends suggested we visit an infrared sauna on one of the coldest (seriously mind-blowing-freeze-your-organs-and-take-cabs-5-blocks cold!) days of 2018 thus far, I was clearly in. Preaching to the organic cotton wearing choir.

So how is an infrared sauna different than a regular sauna? An infrared sauna heats the body directly, and causes a rise in your core temperature, instead of just the skin surface from the outside air. With an infrared sauna, you’re sweating out toxins that reside at the cellular level, with a plethora of health benefits.

You want to know more about those benefits, right? The list is long, but this is an abbreviated version that felt true to my experience: release of muscle tension, detoxification of skin, lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, increased calorie burn (up to 600 cals per 30 minutes), promotion of faster wound healing, and obviously, a big “om” zen feeling for the 24 hours afterwards.

The Session details. I visited NAO Wellness in Manhattan, which also rolls chromotherapy–color therapy–into their sauna offerings. This means you have a self-controlled lights menu with several color options tied to various health benefits: we went heavy with the blue light that helps melt away any seasonal affective disorder symptoms (and an iPhone hookup in the booth to play your music!). Some of the infrared saunas do not emphasis the addition of chromotherapy, but I thought it was a nice touch, and fun to change up the light treatment at different points in the session, plus you feel like you’re in the DJ booth :)

Obviously I can only write to my personal experience, as a lot of physical responses are individualized, but all in all it was enjoyable, relaxing but very productive, 60 minutes. A friend and I shared the booth, which was a tight squeeze for two–we both had to sit upright for the entire session–but not uncomfortable. About 10 minutes in, I really was sweating, you could feel the depth of the infrared rays, even though the sauna space was bone dry. NAO Wellness offers water with electrolytes, for mineral support, so I relied on a few water breaks to get me through the hour. I could feel myself relaxing, and some of the tension in my shoulders and back dissipating.

Immediately following the session, it was as if I had just left both a body scrub and back massage–my entire body felt really smooth and moisturized, and any tension or pain was lessened. The clarity of my skin was also noticeable–I did have a few things come to the surface later that day, as my skin continued to detox, but the healing process was also accelerated. Note to the wise, you will be ravenous afterwards as your body is really working to respond to the infrared treatment, so be prepared to think about a meal shortly after the treatment!

Will I incorporate infrared therapy into my wellness regimen? I personally enjoyed the experiential aspects of the therapy more than the lasting results–physically I felt changed for around 2 days, but I assume that a more frequent treatment routine would close up those gaps. It’s a lovely relaxing way to spend an afternoon–bring a friend, or significant other!–but feels more of a special occasion add than a necessity. I’ll stick to my occasional 15-minute nail salon massages, facials and acupuncture, to keep me afloat. The friend I went with has gone back for treatments at other facilities, and want to make it more of a regular practice in her routine.

Would you try an infrared sauna? Are you a regular? I’m all ears. At NAO, a single session will run you $45 for 30 minutes and $65 for an hour, but prices drop if you bring a buddy. I occasionally try out wellness therapies and will try to bring more of those experiences over here for those that are trying to live a more holistic life.

small ways to seasonally dress

August 21, 2017 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

At this time in the summer season I feel either one of two ways about my current closet edit. Either I’m counting down the amount of times I’m going to wear an item before throwing it out (cough cough my espadrilles have seen better days), or I’m counting the diverse ways I can wear a piece (p.s my white crew-neck tee shirt wins hands down).

August can be an oddly preemptive month. I’m feeling a little nostalgic about certain pieces, crafting occasions to wear things one last time before I tuck them away for the season. But I’m also starting to cast a longing eye to September–and all the fresh, and rich outfit opportunities it brings.

So maybe you’re sentimental about summer. Or maybe you’re ready to start foreshadowing fall. I have some ideas. And, bonus! They’re both very affordable, because, games aside, you probably just want to spend your cash on all the ice cream cones before Labor Day.

“I’m ready for apple farms, and pumpkins, and cashmere sweaters.” Fair.

How about a slight homage to the back-to-school standard ankle socks? A weird thing happened to me this year, where I must have seen someone wearing a pair of glitter anklets and then I couldn’t get them out of my HEAD. Like a 12 pack of pencils and a new notebook, these will only set you back at around $5 a pair. Adorable with a short skirt and bare legs, and how cool are the fishnets (newsflash, back and big for fall), with a raw hem jean?

Shop it: Navy rick rack trim, silvery black, fishnet ankle

“I could still go for another beach day, but my neck is sweaty … ” Yep, same.

Ladies, this idea is free. If you’re like me and have thick or long hair you know about the hair blanket effect. Below see my current vision board of simple, chic perfection. Pick up a pack of clear or black hair elastics and go to town with the multi-sectioned low-pony. It’s different, and easy, and it lasts all day. Or if you’re running out the door, go with a low pony with a single braided tail. You can successfully show off your bronzed shoulders, or statement earrings.

I’m sure you all have some end of season tricks and tips you’re hoarding on it … come on! Share the love. Let me know how you’re dressing at this point in the season. And as always, thanks for reading along on Steeped.

Add to Cart//Every shirt is possible with this one purchase

July 11, 2017July 17, 2017 by gemilbourne ♥ 2 Comments

Sometimes purchasing and trying out delicates can make you feel just the opposite. Underwire! Weirdly unreachable center clasps! Strange 6-way strap possibilities but not even one works!

With undergarments, let’s get real. We want to feel comfortable and free, but not like we’re wrapping up chicken cutlets in saran wrap.

Now is probably a good time for my 3 male readers (I know you’re out there) to move on to another post. Ladies, keep reading because I’ve found something that has replace my regular undergarments at least 4 times a week.

Enter, the aptly named, Nippies. You can get them on Amazon for $25 flat. These have changed the way I dress this summer. No longer am I concerned about wearing a strapless bra that will show through the armholes (sideboob region, hi). I can wear triangle tops without excessive amounts of cleavage. Backless, or string ties, can now be breezy and look as they were intended to! Nippies cover the majority of you, but don’t provide any undercarriage support if you catch my drift, so things will be hanging pretty naturally.

They have never fallen off of me (or been sweated off #NYCLIFE), unlike several other stick-on bra options I’ve tried in the past. Plus, they’re washable so you can wear them again and again. Bonus: you can wear them with your gym clothes if they’re not padded and you want things to stay chill, you know.

I could go on. This is the perfect blend of no-bra freedom, with a little coverage if you’re a closet nipple conservative like me. Shop away!

Now Trending: Hoop Earrings

July 10, 2017 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

medium hoop

Temps are rising and so is this chic micro trend; hoops are definitely back, and we have our 90’s supermodel goddesses to thank. I did some digging into the depths of my jewelry box and found 5 different pairs of hoops that I’ve had since grade school. Seriously. You definitely have a few if you look hard enough. #IWasntAGirl Scout’s honor.

With a little more body than the reigning delicate earrings of the past few seasons, hoops look a bit more intentional and commanding. Paired with loosely pulled back hair, and a monochromatic outfit I think we all can echo back to style decades past. Hoops also play nice with other minimal accessories like silk ribbon in hair (!!!) or wispy braided looks. I’ve been partial to smaller, and medium styles, but if you feel like living’ large like Ms. Jenner above go all out.

If you’re not convinced, check out some of my picks: Flattened Medium Hoop, Medium Classic Hoop, Small Curved Hoop, Hammered Medium Hoop

Look gma! No clips! (earring diy)

June 15, 2017June 15, 2017 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

earrings 3

It’s hard to say “no” to either one of my grandmas (they’re just so cute and sweet and adorable), so somehow over the years of visits, I’ve amassed a large collection of their cast off-earrings.

Lots of bold, vintage, clips-on earlobe pairs. I love them and their history. The problem is that after a few hours of wearing them, my ears start to throb, get red, and I can virtually think of nothing else besides getting home and throwing them back into my jewelry box.

I was at a thrift store a while back and met a lovely pair of gold, floral, 3D clips, that I couldn’t part from. I got to talking with a sales girl who was virtually the same person as me (highwaisted Mom jeans: check, Lucite Warby Parker glasses: check, millennial aura: obviously) and she blew me away with this easy tip that I can’t even believe I didn’t think of before.

You can turn clip-on earrings to regular post earrings. You simply need to remove the back clip, and glue on a post. Set aside 20 minutes and gather your supplies.

earring project 3

You’ll need: clip-on earrings, pliers, extra strength glue (I used gorilla glue), and earring posts (I used this set from Amazon)

First, you remove the back stud of the earring. Some of the earrings I had were a little more delicate in nature, but all of them came of clean with a few wiggles.

Next you glue on the back post of the earring. It will take a few hours for the backs to dry completely, so make sure you have them propped up on a level surface. A few of my backs slid a little off their original mark, but everything dried fine!

Earring project 1

That’s it! Wear your earrings in good health and make sure you tell your Grandma cause I’m sure she’ll be proud of you, like always.

Year-round glow

February 1, 2017February 1, 2017 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

It’s winter which could mean two things for your skin: either you’re still trying to keep up with your spring/summer routine, and noticing a landslide of facial issues, or you’ve come to terms that you need to modify your routine with the change of each season.

Readers, lets get real. No matter how “good” your skin is, you need to recognize that as the largest organ of our humble human shells, we need to continually pay the love back to ourselves. As the proud owner of sensitive, combination skin, I’m focused on balancing between giving myself plenty of moisture, while also preventing the risk of breakouts from overly dried skin buildup. Additionally, I’m also becoming more attuned to any anti-aging steps I should be taking now (Retinol is the best thing ever! But that’s a different blog post!). Here are two glycolic acid products that have been super helpful to keeping my fresh, and prepped for the heavy duty moisturizing that is key in hibernation-worthy months.

Loreal Revitalift Brightening Peel Pads. These pads have been receiving quite a bit of buzz on the beauty blog circuit. Coming in at a bargain under $20, these nightly peel pads will both physically remove dirt and dull skin, while also preventing against wrinkles and age spots, and chemically brighten the skin with 10% glycolic acid. I’ve been using these most nights and then following up with a oil, or night cream. Skin feels fresh and more receptive to any following product.

Ren Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask. If you’re looking for a more occasional product to add, the Ren Glycol Lactic Renewal Mask can be used up to 3x a week–note: I saw a difference after just one use. This mask is a combination of 4 natural acids that gently resurface the skin, remove any dead skin, and fade age/acne scars. After applying mask for 10 minutes, my face felt similar to dreamy post-facial smoothness and clarity (without the extractions). Again, I would follow up with any anti-aging or botanical oils afterwards, as the skin is primed and more receptive to absorbing product. This one comes in around $50, but it’s an integral part of my routine that I will definitely repurchase.

I’d love to hear any feedback on the above products, or any other skin care topics you’d want to read about. I’m a skincare nerd so this stuff makes me so happy. Thank you for reading!

Tie me up

October 24, 2016 by gemilbourne ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

You asked for some inspo, and now you’ve got it. I blogged here about how bandanas are an easy and affordable wardrobe update, but wanted to paint the picture a little more fully with this post. Even I got some fresh ideas while searching for these images; what fun we can have with fashion, am I right?

There’s really no wrong way to style one of these bad boys. With multiple ways to tie bandanas around your neck (or I’m also partial to the bun tie, or bag adornment), do you feel the growing need to adopt the knot?

Here are some options ripe for the picking: Urban Outfitters (they have an awesome selection here), Banana Republic, Zara.

I’d love to hear how you style yourself. Comment below with any additional knot techniques or tag your pictures with the hashtag #steepedinstyle. Let’s get social!