Erno Laszlo Vitamin C Peel

Hey everyone! Welcome to cold weather season! Ew! LOL. Even though I hate anything below 72 degrees, I try to make the best of it by enjoying time indoors. *Insert Spongebob's ode to indoors song*

Anyway, for me that means lots of Netflix and face masks. You know ya girl loves a good face mask! So winter is a good time to try a bunch of different ones to combat that dry, dull skin. I had the pleasure of getting to test out the Erno Laszlo White Marble Dual Phase Vitamin C Peel, thanks to Influenster!

I was really excited to try this one because I'd never tested anything like it before. But wowie, this one is a beauty!

It works in two steps. First you open the jar that smells of a delicious orange grove; slightly reminiscent of the end of the Soarin' ride in Disney World. This part of the peel works as an exfoliant. You apply a thin, even layer and massage it in for up to 3 minutes. Then the second step is the activator or the chemical part of the peel. Fill the syringe and mix it into the exfoliant already on your face. Let that sit for 1 minute, rinse with warm water and viola! A quick five minutes for great results if you ask me!

Speaking of which...the results! Here's a before and after.

As you can clearly see, there was a huge difference after just one use! First of all, as I said in my Instagram story, my face has never felt this soft. Like, I actually couldn't stop feeling it! On top of that, my skin was glowing and looking almost airbrushed compared to the before picture. 

You can use this once a week, which is nice to have as a part of your routine, and it's a lot of fun to use. I also really liked how quick and easy it was. I think it will come in handy if I'm having a bad skin day and need a quick fix! I'd definitely recommend it to use before applying makeup to give you a super smooth base to work with! Bonus: it's chock-full of healthy ingredients like Vitamin C (obviously), carrot seed oil and lactic acid. 

Overall I really enjoyed this mask/peel and would 100% recommend it! It is a little pricey, coming in at $100, but a good idea for your Christmas list! It's available at Sephora as well as the official Erno Laszlo site. 

Have you tried this peel yet or any other products from Erno Laszlo? Let's chat in the comments!

XO, Briana

Let's Talk About: Winter Blues

It's that time of the year again, where the days are short, sunshine is in short supply and tons of people find themselves at home all day wrapped up in a blanket feeling like total crap.  If you are one of those people (I know I am) then you've come to the right blog post.

According to Mental Health America, about 5% of the U.S. population suffer from what is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  It is a form of depression that is prevalent during the winter months.  Interestingly enough, the further away you are from the equator, the more likely you are to experience SAD.

As a victim of general depression, I am absolutely susceptible to SAD and I hate it.  I notice it effects me more when I don't have a million things to do.  For example, I just started back to school after a very busy winter break.  I only have one class and hours at work have been cut so I've found myself sitting around the house a LOT.  I didn't recognize the symptoms at first, since it hasn't been as bad since I've moved down South.  However, this morning when I found myself glued to my recliner watching reruns of American Dad thinking "why do I have zero motivation to do anything," I realized I was just taking in my yearly dose of SAD.

The hardest thing about SAD is that you are constantly tired and don't want to do anything; and I mean anything.  Even all of the things I had planned to do today that were super fun made me cringe. All I wanted to do was sit there and wallow in self pity: I'm tired. I'm hungry. Everything hurts. Why do I still have a cold? I just want to sleep.  

Well no. I did not allow myself to do that.  Yes it takes a crap ton of willpower to peel your ass off the couch and do something.  Believe me, I didn't always have it in me.  And some days I still don't! But after years of dealing with depression and finding ways to get past it, I keep a few tricks up my sleeve for almost tricking yourself into feeling better.

Do something that seems productive but really isn't

What do I mean by this? Come up with some activities that make you feel like you're getting something accomplished but really don't make a ton of difference.  The perfect examples come from self care.  Get a shower, moisturize, put on a face mask and chill.  These may sound silly and like things you do on a regular day, but if you're feeling as low as I was earlier, you probably will be hesitant to do those too.  Basically, by doing something that got me up and moving and feeling like I was being productive, I got my brain in the mindset to continue my productivity.

Take baby steps

By doing things that are only a tiny bit productive, I'm slowly introducing myself into the productive mindset.  This works better, I find, than just trying to push myself into doing something very taxing like cleaning or exercising.  By taking baby steps, I've been able to slowly engage in more productive activities like writing this post.

Sunlight and Vitamin D

Everything I've read on SAD suggests getting as much Vitamin D as possible.  In the past, I've even been prescribed the vitamin because mine was so low.  I suggest popping over to your nearest pharmacy and getting in on some of those vitamin gummies.  Not only will they help your body adjust to the sunless winter months, but they are also delicious and much more fun than taking a pill.

I've also seen several suggestions for light therapy.  I've never tried it, but it seems to be something that really helps people with SAD.  Personally, I'm lucky enough to live in the South where I get a good amount of sunshine during the day.  So if it is sunny out, make sure to at least open up your blinds and let it shine in!

Create a happy environment 

Once you are able to get yourself moving, create a happy and uplifting environment.  I put on my summer playlist while I got my shower and lit a beach scented candle.  Summertime is my happy place, so using things that reminded me of that definitely made me feel better.  I also plan on painting my nails a fun color and put on some fun and comfy clothes.

Move where it's warm

This is something I've been thinking about a lot lately.  Like I mentioned earlier, the closer you are to the equator, the less likely you are to suffer from SAD.  I also personally hate the cold and want to live in an eternal summer.  So if you have the ability and desire to fly south for the winter (or for, like, ever) then do it.  You'll probably be a lot happier!

Check out my "Health" board on Pinterest for more information on SAD and other ways to help with depression.


What do you do to get yourself out of a winter slump? Have you tried any of these suggestions? Let me know in the comments!

XO, Briana

Valentine's Day Style

Hey everyone!! So even though I will be pathetically single for Valentine's Day this year (again) I decided to stay with the spirit and put together some cute outfits!!  Basically, I'm living vicariously through everyone who will be actually doing something on the 14th besides what will most likely be me and my cousin killing a couple bottles of wine.  So take this as an, "if I was doing this, this is what I would wear" kind of thing.

So if I did have a fancy date, this is what I would put together:

Fine Valentine Dining by brianalaurenbela 

Red swing dress / Christian Louboutin high heel shoes / Kate Spade pink handbag / Diamond bracelet / Blue Nile earrings / Tarte mascara / Deborah Lippmann nail polish, / Star necklace

Since I'm always itching for a reason to dress up, what better venue than a fancy restaurant?!  I know it's soo cliche.  How creative right? (#sarcasm) But really, that's the most common date for a reason! Great food, great conversation (and great clothes) always make for a good night.

I based this look around its focal point; the dress.  I accented it with a simple pair of pumps, a flirty clutch, and lots of diamonds.  They don't have to be all real diamonds, but you get the idea,  Very classic, very chic.  For hair and makeup I did a styled ponytail, big lashes, and light pink nails.  Too much makeup won't look good against that bright red dress so I think a simple face is enough.  Maybe a swipe of lipgloss ;)

The next outfit would be suited for a different kind of date.  One where we stay in and watch some romantic movies, eat some chocolates, and cuddle.

Flirty Night In by brianalaurenbela

Boden pink top / Rag & bone jeans, / Dita von teese lingerie /Chiara Ferragni glitter shoes / Bao Bao by Issey Miyake vegan purse / Henri Bendel strand necklace / Pandora bead charm bracelet / NARS Cosmetics pink blush / Benefit eyeliner

For a night in, I paired a cute pair of boyfriend jeans with a pink slouchy sweater and pair of cheeky little flats.  Add a super fem bra to give it a sexy factor and minimal jewelry; a longer necklace and simple bracelet will do.  Bring along a cute tote bag to stash all of your favorite movies and snacks. For hair and makeup, sweep those locks into a side braid and keep makeup simple with  nice blush and swipe of black liner.

So those would be my ideal date outfits for Valentine's Day.  However, seeing as though I will not have a date this year, I've put together two additional outfits for spending the holiday with the girls.

Dance Away V-Day by brianalaurenbela

Jonathan Simkhai cutout crop top, / Altuzarra faux fur jacket, / River Island lips skirt, / Alexander McQueen high heel shoes, / Lips purse, / Topshop necklace / Nars eye pallet, / Matte lipstick / OPI nail polish, 

If you plan on spending the night out dancing with your posse, a funky look is a must if you ask me. I put together a look centered around this adorable lip skirt (themed but not over the top is key!) doing mostly black pieces to make it stand out.  I paired the slightly flared skirt with a sporty crop top and a crazy little faux fur jacket.  I love this with a strappy patent leather stiletto, and the black lip bag mimics the skirt without being too "matchy matchy."  Top it all off with a spiked statement necklace and a bit of good, old fashioned sass and your good to go.  For hair and makeup, I stuck to voluminous "bed head" hair, a smoky eye, light pink lips, and silver nails.

Last but not least is the Valentine's Girls Brunch.  Everyone loves brunch, so why not celebrate the holiday with your best girls!  Here's an outfit I put together that is made for the ladies who brunch. Super classy and feminine, perfect for Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day Brunch by brianalaurenbela

Floral skater dress / Tory Burch leather ballet flat / Kate Spade leather purse / Melinda Maria stacking rings  / Kate Spade crystal stud earrings / Too Faced Cosmetics cheek bronzer / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics pink lipgloss, / Marc Jacobs perfume

Again, I stuck to one main piece (in this case the dress) and worked my way around it.  For me, I like to look put together but still comfortable, so I paired a rather busy printed dress with a simple nude flat.  Keeping with the classic style, I added pearl earrings and some dainty stacking rings for the jewelry.  I picked a small cross-body bag to make it easy for carrying while adding a pop of color.  I kept makeup simple: just a bronze glow with a sheer lipgloss; and hair in a crown braid for a modern romantic touch.  (Also to show off those earrings!) Top it all of with a light floral scent.

I love all of these looks because they're all different in style but have the same romantic Valentine's Day vibe.  I often use Polyvore to make the outfits I'll always want to but never actually wear.  Which is unfortunate.  But I also use it to organize my thoughts when it comes to planning outfits with things I actually do own.  But I hope I was able to inspire you with these outfits or turn a light bulb on in your head as you remember "Hey, I have all of the things to make that outfit!"  This year, I'll probably be wearing what I usually wear, which is active wear.  But maybe it will be pink.  Who knows.

Regardless, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday!  If you want someone to commiserate with, you know where to find me.  Or if you want to share your V-day outfit ideas let me know!  I'd love to see them!

XO, Briana

Snowman New York {Fashion February}

While I was New York City for fashion week, I had the great honor of being able to visit the Snowman New York showroom, thanks to my good friend Angela!  She just signed them on as a new client and was there for a meeting, so we got to tag along to come and check it out! The company just moved their workplace so I got to see their new place, plus almost their entire collection for the season!  Everyone was super nice and welcoming.  They were excited for me to come and check out their line, and obviously so was I! I got to sit down with one of the designers, Jennifer Suh, for just a minute and she told me a bit about their vision for the brand.  We talked about the lack of fashionable outerwear that is also warm and comfortable.  With the Snowman New York brand, they hope to give the typical winter coat a modern, New York makeover!

Looking through the collection, I fell in love.  Every coat was unique and super chic.  There was lots of furs, great color, and innovative shapes. Did I mention they do dresses too?!  Also, the coats were super light-weight and thin, avoiding that A Christmas Story look we Northerners know all too well.

While we were there, Jen and her wonderful HR maven, Murrill Oaks, actually let us do a mini photoshoot in the showroom featuring some of our favorite pieces!  Thankfully, I had my "should-be-a-model" friend Emma with me to try them on! Ang even got in on the action for a shot!

Ang caught an action shot!

We picked our top four pieces and tried them out!  The first one (shown in the top and left photos) has a super cute fur hood, a cool green color, and the featured light weight down.  The one pictured in the right and bottom photos was black with a full fur front (which was super soft and shiny, btw) and a lovely face, framing collar.

This piece, shown below, was one of the first things I saw when I walked into the showroom.  It's a leather dress with fur trim and it is adorable.

Lastly, we got to see a piece from spring collection that I'm seriously in need with.  There is so much going for this little jacket! The sleeves are down, but the body is not which creates the perfect amount of warm for spring!  The collar is super "popable" and the curve in the back is flattering and unique.  It's a very versatile piece that should be a staple in every cool girl's closet!

Overall, I had a great experience at the Snowman New York showroom!  We had so much fun hanging out and doing our photo shoot!  I also really loved the whole collection!  Definitely an up and coming brand that I would recommend to any girl looking for a chic, new coat.  I can't wait to see more of what they produce in the future and hope to collaborate again with them soon! Thanks again for having us!!

For more information, look books, and shopping check out the Snowman New York website!

XO, Briana

K. Nicole Couture {Fashion February}

Hurray for Fashion Week!! I know I'm a  little behind on posting these, but I've just been so busy collecting stories! So keep your eyes open for all of my Fashion February posts!!  My first Fashion Week, which was this past September, I attended shows as an intern and enjoyed the experience of a lifetime!  This time around, I got to go as a full-blown fashion blogger!!

First on the itinerary was the K. Nicole Couture fashion show!! Thanks to my good friend Angela, I got an invite to the show, plus was able to bring my friend Emma with me!  After having a conversation with my new PR friend, Eduardo, I was able to score an interview with the designers!! [Thanks again Eduardo! You're the best!]

But first, some background on the designers!  K. Nicole Couture is designed by this fabulous duo, Kera Anderson (right) and Nicole Styer (left).  Based in my hometown of Philadelphia, PA, the girls met and became friends at Nicole's clothing and accessory store, N.R.S. Boutique located in Center City Phila.

Snapshot from their show, courtesy of the K. Nicole Instagram page!

The Interview

So I got to sit down with the girls for a quick, pre-show chat! First I asked about their collection.  They told me they are really inspired by the fabrics and textiles they find and mixing and matching them together. They're also both really excited about outwear for spring.  When I asked, both responded with jackets and coats, particularly the classic trench. [By the way, I couldn't agree more!] Nicole said, "We're really heavy in this collection on coats, and that's what we really started with." Seeing as this was not their first time showing a collection, I asked if the process has become easier.  "It was definitely harder at first," said Kera.  "We're definitely learning from the first time around, still ironing out the best way to go about everything," Nicole added.  I was also really curious to know more about how they became a team. Kera told me, "She had a piece, a dress hanging in her window and I just had a different vision...  So, we just re-tweaked the dress she had already done and it came out fabulous!"  Lastly I asked if they had any advice for young designers. Nicole told me, "Just really stay true to what you want to do.  Don't compromise too much on your vision." Duly noted girls!!  

The Collection

Can I just say, I absolutely loved this collection.  I definitely saw the outerwear influence, especially in some of my favorite pieces.  The feel was a mix of Victorian meets classic meets a little bit of 70s.  The construction was impeccable and there was a modern twist to all of the looks.  Overall, I felt the collection was cohesive and beautifully done! Here are my top five looks!

Check out previous collections and more on the K. Nicole website!

What I Wore

As I'm sure you know, I switched my outfit a good twenty times before deciding.  There are still a few things I would have changed, but time is precious. So I went with this look, inspired by my Kate Spade bag!

Cardigan: Saks Fifth Avenue | Blouse/Skirt: American Eagle | Belt/Necklace: Target | Bag: Kate Spade

The After Party

After the runway show, we got to hang out with some super cool people!! I got to see some old friends and make some new ones!  The music was great and so were the drinks!  It had even started snowing during the show, so a bunch of people took advantage of the scene, including us!

I had an amazing time at this event!  I feel truly honored to be able to spend quality time with the designers, who were super excited that I was from Philly btw, and they were so nice! Truly inspiring for a young aspiring designer such as myself.  I can't wait to see what they have in store for us at future shows!

XO, Briana