Pleated Variety

Category: Lifestyle

  • My Current Skincare Routine

    My Current Skincare Routine

    Yep. That’s pretty much all of them. Ok, ok, ok this photo makes it look pretty complicated, but I promise it a super quick morning and evening skincare routine. I got a facial last December at Stark MD Aesthetic Center and asked the aesthetician (Heather!) to start from scratch and recommend me a skincare regimen. Many times skincare experts will just fill in the gaps based on what you are already using, but I told her to pretend I have nothing to recommend products she truly believes in. Turns out I was already using some products she loves so she whipped up a regimen with a few new products and told me the order and time of day in which to apply.

    I have done this routine religiously for the past three months and when I went back in March for a dermaplane/peel Heather said my skin was in SUCH a better place. She told me she could see a difference between the skin on my face and neck and reminded me not to forget to use these products (especially the toner) on my neck. Otherwise, she made no changes to this routine.

    I would say I have combination skin and my skincare concerns are… aging! I wanted products that would improve the tone/texture of my skin while also treating fine lines and promoting collagen production. Here is the routine with links and details about each product below….

    Morning Skincare Routine

    Step 1 : PCA Skin Facial Wash

    Just a gentle cleanser to wake up the skin first thing in the morning and remove dirt and oil. It’s no frills, but it does the job.

    Step 2: PCA Skin Nutrient Toner

    Holy grail item! Exfoliates the skin for a healthy glow – smells ah-mazing. Apply with a cotton round in upward strokes over face and neck.

    Step 3: ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum

    Dubbed “botox in bottle”, this is a spot treatment for fine lines. Apply a small amount where you wrinkle (around eyes, forehead and mouth).

    Step 4: Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel Cream

    35K+ amazing reviews and under $15. A little dab under each eye every single morning.

    Step 5: C&E Advanced mixed with Hyaluronic Acid Booster

    Combine a pea sized amount of each on fingertips and apply to face avoiding eye area. The C&E cream helps with dark spots and evens skin tone (tingles a little!) and the HA serum provides deep, long-lasting hydration.

    Step 6: Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF30

    My ride or die anti-wrinkle day cream with SPF.

    Evening Skincare Routine

    Step 1: Elemis Cleansing Balm or Mara Enzyme Oil Cleanser

    First, it’s the most beautiful bottle. Second, it takes off make up like no other. Warm it between your fingers and apply all over face/neck on DRY skin. Rinse with warm water. It will be your new obsession.

    Step 2: Nutrient Toner

    Back again for night time because it’s that good. Use the textured side of the cotton round to fully exfoliate the face and neck.

    Step 3: Augustinus Bader Eye Cream

    This was my 40th bday present to myself. There is a TON of science behind this brand and it’s TFC8® Complex. Click below to read all about it…. I’m a believer!

    (again, a little goes a long way. This has lasted me 4 months and counting)

    Step 4 (Sunday + Thursday): PCA Skin Intensive Brightening Treatment 0.5% Retinol mixed with Hyaluronic Acid Booster

    Mix a pea size amount of each onto finger tips and apply all over face avoiding eye area. The intensive brightening treatment is a pure night time retinol that treats discoloration. The HA is for hydration.

    Step 4 (M, T, W, F, S): AlphaRet mixed with Hyaluronic Acid Booster

    AlphaRet is an alpha hydroxy acid that rejuvenates the skin with minimal irritation – it’ anti-aging gold! Mix it with a pea-size amount of the HA booster to seal in moisture.

    Step 5: Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

    It’s a major splurge, but you will notice a difference in the elasticity and firmness of your skin almost immediately. It’s celeb-approved and I really don’t want to love it, but I do.

  • It’s the Balm!

    It’s the Balm!

    I’ve written before about my nighttime skincare routine. Spoiler alert, it takes me 10 times longer than my husband’s nighttime routine (if his actually exists?) Even at my most tired, I will never skip a step, but I’m going to share one product that makes my skincare routine more “ritual” and less “routine”. If you’ve ever walked into your bathroom at 9:30pm, stared into the mirror with a full face of faded makeup then groaned at the thought of splashing water on your face to wash it off, I feel your pain. One of the reasons I love the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm so much is because there is no splashing water required. The cleansing balm has the consistency of silky gel and when warmed between your fingers it literally melts on your skin.

    I take generous amount of the balm and smooth it all over my face. It removes make up and impurities while also hydrating the skin leaving it feeling crazy soft and glowy. I was so excited to learn that ELEMIS came out with their Pro-Collagen NAKED Cleansing Balm because this product is also safe to use around your eyes to remove eye make-up. The cleansing balm comes with a washcloth that you simply soak in some warm water, wring it out and wipe it away.

    The cleansing balm does come in other scents (original and rose are my other favorites), but to remove eye make-up when using these balms I use eye make up remover wipes. It is not recommended to use those variations around the eyes, but with the naked version that is fragrance free, you can go all out and even remove lipstick too!

    Most cleansers make my skin feel dry and tight after use, but the cleansing balm is truly a hydration bath. You can even leave it on your skin as a mask for a few minutes before rinsing off. After I wipe the balm away I follow up with some of my other favorite ELEMIS products below….

    The Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream is one of those things that I can’t go to bed without wearing. If I want an extra boost, sometimes I add a few drops of the Pro-Collagen Rose Facial Oil. And as I near 40, I’ve realized that I can’t forget the neck! I started religiously using the Pro-Collagen Neck & Decollete Balm because prevention is key right? Oh, and if you are looking for a great summer day cream, the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream also comes with an SPF30 option!

    Have you started using any ELEMIS products? Let me know your favorite in the comments!

  • Holiday Tablescape + Wayfair Black Friday

    Holiday Tablescape + Wayfair Black Friday

    When it comes to setting the holiday table this year, it’s all about creating a vibe that feels warm, welcoming, and effortlessly chic. Imagine a festive scene like this: layers of natural greenery, twinkling lights, and pops of plaid that whisper cozy holiday charm. This tablescape blends rustic textures, like festive greens and rattan trees, with the timeless elegance of heirloom-inspired holiday china. It’s a setup that invites guests to linger over savory bites and lively conversation. Wayfair has all you need to create the perfect ambiance for your holiday gatherings and right now you can save up to 80% and get free shipping during their Black Friday Sale!

    Pulling together a look like this doesn’t have to be stressful. With just a few key pieces—like plaid napkins, mercury glass accents, and evergreen sprigs—you can create a table that feels festive yet modern. Whether you’re hosting family, friends, or both, this setup makes holiday dining as much about the ambiance as the food.

    Set The Table In Style

    The holidays are the perfect time to add a little festive flare. This 12-piece set brings the merry right to your table. Add some greenery accents alongside some twinkling rattan trees to bring those cozy and rustic vibes we all love during the holiday season.

    “Hot cocoa, anyone? These holiday mugs bring the merry to your kitchen, complete with festive vibes that even the kids will love. Scoop ’em up from Wayfair while they’re on sale with free shipping—because holiday cheer shouldn’t break the bank!”

  • Lazy Girl’s Guide to Beauty + The Ulta Spring Haul Event

    Lazy Girl’s Guide to Beauty + The Ulta Spring Haul Event

    MOM! Let’s go! Mom, hurry up. Mom! You. Always. Make. Us. LATE!!!!!

    Every time we are leaving to go somewhere as a family, these are the words my boys yell into my room as I quickly try to get ready. This is life living with 5 boys. They just don’t get it. When packing my beauty must-haves for our recent trip to South Africa, I knew I had to keep it minimal for a few reasons: One, I could only bring one bag, and two, I don’t think the lions would care if I had on a full face of make up. That being said, I knew we would be taking lots of photos and going out to dinner so I crammed as many of my favorites in my ba

    And because this wasn’t an all-out-glam type of vacation, I perfected my lazy girl’s guide to beauty and since I’ve been home, it has stuck! All of the products I’m sharing I bought at Ulta Beauty and now through April 15th you can save up to 40% off hair care, skin care, bath care and makeup across various brand during their Spring Haul Event. If you need a spring beauty refresh or are looking for some new products to test out while they are on sale, it is the time to stock up.

    No Brushes Required Make Up

    This was the make up HERO on my trip. Early morning wake up calls meant VERY little time to do make up so a swipe of the pixi On-the-Glow Blush stick was my savior. A little swipe on each cheek blended in with my fingers gave me a rosy, dewy glow with minimal effort.

    Ok technically you are supposed to use eye brushes when putting on eye make up, but I rarely do. I love this Ulta Beauty eye palette for travel because it is small, but still has a variety of colors to choose from. I use my ring finger and apply one of the lighter colors all over my lids from lash to brow. I use a darker color in the outer crease and blend. Finally, I use the white on my brow bone for a lifting effect.

    Hair + Skincare Hacks

    Why apply cream sunscreen when you can spray it AND set your make up at the same time?! Highly recommend this Coola Makeup Setting Sunscreen Spray. It’s great to keep in your bag when you already have makeup on and then catch yourself in full on rays.

    I am not the most well-traveled person and I wasn’t sure if I could pack aerosol dry shampoo? I feel like there is a thing about that so I played it safe and packed my Kristin Ess Dry Shampoo powder. It works so well and this little bottle lasts! Plus it seems safer than aerosol, but what do I know?!

    During our trip I think I used a hair dryer one time. As summer approaches I dry my hair less frequently because I can go outside without it turning into icicles. I swear by the Kristen Ess Air Dry Creme to cut frizz boost shine. I packed a travel size in my bag for this trip.

    Long flights can be crazy drying so I kept the it cosmetics Your Skin But Better Setting Spray + in my carry on bag. It’s full of hyaluronic acid, coconut water and aloe vera. Bonus points for keeping shine at bay.

  • Two Elemis Products to Add to Your Skincare Routine

    Two Elemis Products to Add to Your Skincare Routine

    It should come as no surprise that I’m sorta kinda an Elemis skincare junkie. Ok ok, it’s pretty much full blown love affair, but everything I try I feel really helps my skin. Anti-aging is always my goal and at 39 I am basically just trying to keep my skin super hydrated and using products to minimize fine lines. I wanted to share two Elemis products that I recently added to my skincare routine that I think you will love if you have the same skincare concerns as me.

    Elemis Pro-Collagen Renewal Serum

    Meet the new generation of skincare with this retinol alternative. While it is no question that retinol products work, they can be harsh on your skin. This serum helps to reduce fine lines, skin texture, reduce pore size and help even out skin pigment with out drying/irritation effects of retinol. It also helps with the firmness of your skin and I can say that with consistent use my skin feels tighter. Use code LINDSEY20 for 20% off your order!

    How to use it: After washing your face morning and night, apply 4-5 drops to your palm and massage into your skin in upward strokes. Follow with moisturizer or, better yet, the product below, then moisturizer.

    Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Moisture Essence

    Now that I have my anti-aging secret weapon on my skin, it’s time to plump it up with the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Moisture Essence. This feels like a serum, but technically it’s an “essence” – sounds very fancy! It provides an extra boost of hydration for super dewy skin. The essence sinks into my skin instantly and doesn’t leave a tacky residue that I’ve noticed with other products. At night, I follow up with Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix for the ultimate seal in hydration.

    How to use it: After washing your face, apply a few drops into the palm of your hand and blend into your skin.

    I don’t love baring it all and my skin isn’t perfect, but I truly believe this line works to help with fine lines and maintain that “bounce”!

    I would love to know which Elemis products you all have been using and how you like them!

  • The Always Pan + Easy Orzo Side Dish

    The Always Pan + Easy Orzo Side Dish

    It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of the Always Pan. I discovered it during quarantine when I was forced to make 87 meals per day for my family of 6 who had nowhere to go, but my kitchen. Cooking is not my favorite thing and it’s debatable whether I am deterred because of the clean up that comes after or if it’s just really not my thing. If there is a recipe for a one pot meal, I’ve probably made it. The Always Pan has fed into my love for one pot meals because it replaces the need for 8 pieces of traditional cookware. It steams, sautés, frys, boils, sears etc… plus it is very, very pretty. It’s the only dish I need to make dinner, plus it is crazy easy to clean. Do you see the appeal?

    Another reason I love the Always Pan is that the ceramic non-stick surface is made without PFOAS and PTFES so I can rest assure that no toxins are seeping into my food. I’ve talked before about all of the bells and whistles of the pan … the built in spatula holder, the lid for storing and steam release, the pouring spout, the cool touch handle, but for this post I wanted to focus your attention to the steamer basket. Whether you are steaming or straining, it makes any recipe that much easier.

    Here is a recipe for an easy vegetable orzo dish that can be served as a side dish, or would make a full meal with the addition of a protein. Since I am gluten-free I used Banza orzo which is made from chickpea flour, but this can be made with any brand.

    Vegetable Orzo Recipe

    Place the steamer basket inside the pan, fill with water and bring to a boil. Add orzo.

    Allow to cook according to directions on package, stirring occasionally.

    Using a cloth, remove steamer basket from boiling water. I like to rinse all of my gluten-free products in the sink – the basket makes this very easy to do, but this is an optional step.

    Remove orzo from the steamer basket and put aside. Fill the pan with fresh water and replace steamer basket to steam broccoli.

    When the broccoli is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside. Next, add olive oil to the pan and sauté two cloves of garlic.

    When garlic is fragrant, put the orzo and broccoli back into the pan and mix to integrate the olive oil. Add halved cherry tomatoes, a touch more olive oil, parmesan, salt and pepper to taste.

    And I wish I could take the credit….. but it’s really my sister’s recipe!

    Ingredients:

    1 package of orzo
    1 small head of broccoli
    1 cup of cherry tomatoes, cut in half
    2 cloves of garlic
    Olive oil
    Salt
    Pepper
    Parmesan Cheese

    Recipe:

    Cook the orzo according to the package, strain and place in a dish.

    Steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes and set aside.

    Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a saute pan. Add the minced garlic and cook on med/low heat for 1 minute (make sure it doesn’t burn).

    Add the orzo, broccoli, tomatoes, salt, pepper, and another good swirl of olive oil to the pan and mix.

    Top with Parmesan cheese and serve!

    If you try it, let me know what you think! And if you are looking for a great gift for the holiday season (for yourself, or a loved one) the Always Pan is an amazing choice! Make sure to take advantage of the special Black Friday price before it sells out!

  • What to Pack: Wine Tasting

    What to Pack: Wine Tasting

    If you are a wine lover, like myself, then a wine tasting trip is a trip of a lifetime. Packing for full day of wine hopping, sightseeing, shopping, exploring, might be daunting, but luckily this is one place I have been and I am here to help. You may have heard terms like “wine country casual” or “Napa Valley chic”…. there really are no rules, but with scenic views you may want to be photo ready. You will see looks ranging from jeans and cute blouses to easy, stylish dresses. One piece of advice: Don’t forget layers. The days are warm, but can quickly get chilly at night. When you are in wine country, most of the time is spent outdoors which means it’s important to pack a hat, a cool pair of sunnies and sunscreen. Check out our take on what to pack for your wine tasting trip….

    The Drop Tiered Maxi Dress

    An easy, breezy comfortable dress is a must for wine tasting. A tired maxi is lightweight but looks chic with a cardigan or denim jacket when the temps get chilly.

    Hat Attack Tote

    Make sure to have a lightweight bag on hand for your day of wine tasting. You will want to pack some sunscreen, maybe a hat and have room for any wine you want to take home! Bonus: this bag is also a cooler!

    Sorel Ella Sandal

    A comfortable and walkable sandal is essential when packing for your wine tasting trip. Because let’s face it, there will be wine and it needs tasting!

  • What To Pack : Las Vegas

    What To Pack : Las Vegas

    I have been lucky to travel to some amazing places, but one place I have never been to is Las Vegas. Just thinking about going to Vegas sounds like it HAS to be fun. The night life, the shows, the shopping, poolside parties… the people watching. With the endless activities Las Vegas has to offer, packing can be tricky. As I sit at my desk staring at all of the snow through my window, I am going to daydream about taking a trip to Las Vegas and all of the chic and fabulous outfits I would wear in case a trip there happens to fall in my lap. Our take on what to pack for your trip to Las Vegas awaits….

    LBLC The Label Dress

    A great dress is definitely a staple for a trip to Vegas. I love a LBD and this one should wrap dress is so chic!

    Norma Kamali Jogger Pants

    You will want to include a stylish pair of pants for those places that don’t allow denim. This jogger pant is perfect for dressing up or down!

    J.Crew Denim Shorts

    Now we can talk denim! Denim shorts are ideal in the warm Vegas temps if you are poolside or perusing all the shops and sites to see on the strip!

  • What I Actually Wore – Vacation Edit

    What I Actually Wore – Vacation Edit

    What a week! I am insanely grateful for our beach getaway and the change of scene. Normally we would be in the midst of baseball tournament teams and doing the camp run around with my younger kids, but since everything in cancelled we decided to go to the beach a little earlier than usual. It’s a little chilly, but the kids don’t mind (still swimming), and there’s just something about that salt air that is good for the soul. I have unapologetically been wearing all of the cute summer outfits I’ve been holding and have a pretty epic outfit roundup for you below. I think everyone has the same idea because things seem to be selling out fast! Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend that includes as least one non-loungewear event! Baby steps ♥️

    Vacation Outfits

    Cover-Ups

    Bathing Suits

  • Holiday Season Going Out OUT Tops

    Holiday Season Going Out OUT Tops

    I heard a comedy skit this morning about the difference between going out and going OUT OUT. If you know, you know. If I don’t commit to going OUT OUT, it’s hard to motivate my 40 year old body to get out the door when it’s dark and cold. Going out always sounds great in my head, then as soon as the sun goes down it often takes everything in me to channel my inner college-self and not retreat to sweats/couch/wine/movie. Just me? Having a few going OUT OUT tops in your closet is always some good motivation – a far second to the prospect of making memories with good friends, obviously. This post is all about those dressy, wow-factor one-and-one blouses that just need jeans, leather pants, a fun bag and swipe of party-ready lipstick. Evereve’s curated top selection is always my first stop when looking for something to wear that warrants booking a sitter and a few days worth of pre-event hydration. Like I said, I’m 40 (more like 41, but who is counting….)

    Round up your girls because we are going out… OWWWWWWT tonight!

    And a true sign of a good night? I’d say posing on a pumpkin is proof….