Blurple (and Leopard)

         Hello, at long last! There's something magical about the month of October that's pulled me out from a blogging slumber. The crisp sixty degree weather has me drawing my windows open, wrapping myself in fleece blankets, and enjoying the change of seasons.

        I've also been reveling in the rich, gorgeous colors of fall, that seem to be everywhere you turn. I found unexpected delight in the rich 'blurple' shades of these ornamental cabbages decorating the walk to work! My goal is to incorporate this new color inspiration into my wardrobe this month!

       Speaking of my work wardrobe, I've picked up a few new basics that I've been totally loving this month. First, are my J.Crew Gemma leopard flats, which I've been wearing almost non-stop. I'm hoping J.Crew comes up with more pretty patterns in this design. I've also been loving my Lululemon Jet Crop Slim pants in black. (ends of which are seen above). They're a sneaky way to sneak comfort into my work wardrobe! Pair these with a J.Crew featherweight cashmere sweater, and I'm good to go!

       Thanks for reading! And I hope the month has found you well! What fall basics have you been loving lately?

Love, Dovey.

Friday Five : Peonies + graduation edition

         Happy Friday! This week's been a busy one, filled with family, flowers, and great food! My family trekked all the way from the East coast to attend my graduation. It's not often I get to hang out with them, so it was a real treat. In addition to graduation festivities, I dragged them to yoga, rock climbing, and a brief foodie tour of Chicago. (By the way, it's always a good week when dinner at Piccolo Sogno is on the schedule). 

        For this edition of Friday Five, I'm sharing a five things I've been enjoying this week:

I love garden-grown peonies! They have this organic feel that you just don't get from in-store bouquets!

1. Graduation 
I'm graduating for what (most likely) will be the last time! I can't tell you how amazing it feels to finally finish eight years of graduate school and now graduate with my second doctoral degree. It was even more special because my dad was able to give me my doctoral hood during the ceremony. I'm so thankful for the opportunity (after all, it's what brought me to Chicago), and can't wait to see what's ahead! At this point, it looks like I'll stay in Chicago one more year before moving on to new adventures!

Really loved this graduation cap - I'd have to say it's a pretty flattering shape!

2. Home-grown peonies
For graduation, my mom brought this enormous, amazing bouquet of peonies grown in her garden. I wish I'd taken a photo at the time - the mix of white, pink, and dark pink peonies in all stages of blooming was really a sight to see! Most of the blooms have since wilted, but I have a small vase with baby blooms left to enjoy (see below!)

By the way, I love the fact that Kate Spade makes phone cases for Samsung Galaxy models as well. This one is too cute!

3. My basic beauty routine, updated
After making-do with products in my current stash, it feels nice to get a small update! I'm loving my bottle of CHANEL Perfection Lumière in B30 (most of the year, I'm a B20). It looks so natural against my current tan; I don't know what took me so long to take the plunge! I think I may have to pick up my favorite CHANEL Double Perfection Lumière in B30 now as well. (CHANEL foundations to cost a small fortune, so it is a little painful to have to stock my collection with so many...). NARS Larger Than Life Volumizing Mascara is still my long-time favorite. One tube lasts me forever, however I think it's time for a new one. In terms of blush, I'm loving my new Bobbi Brown blushes in Nude Pink and Pastel Pink (reviewed here). When it comes to tan skin, I find that more pigmented blushes are appropriate - and these blushes have been great options for me.

4. Kakao talk
I spend so much time on social media for blog purposes, that often I'm slow about using my personal accounts for personal purposes! I really need to be better about keeping in touch with friends and family. One step in a positive direction has been downloading Kakao talk onto my phone. It's a cute messenging system commonly used by Koreans that's been around for some time now. It's so nice to finally get this; now I can chat with my mom and aunts anytime!

Some of my current beauty favorites. You'll probably recognize that a couple of these seem to appear on Cute and Mundane time and time again!

5. Incoming skincare + swimwear
It's only a matter of days before I leave my current vacation-like schedule and go back to work (eek). I'm trying to pick up anything I might need before that time comes, as I won't have much time for shopping (online or otherwise)! A shipment of my favorite Avène skincare is on it's way. I was lucky to find a deal for 20% off, so I ordered my favorite Avène Cleanance cleanser (reviewed here), as well as new masks and a moisturizer that I'll be trying for the first time.

I've really been all about fitness lately. (I guess my New Year's resolutions kind of stuck this year!) I've been doing a near daily combination of bouldering and yoga at Brooklyn Boulders, and have seen some pretty gratifying results. Soon, my schedule will prevent daily visits, so I'm hoping to pick up new ways to stay fit. I'd been wanting to get back to swimming for some time, however I just don't have the suit for it! On one hand, I don't feel like squeezing into competition suits anymore and on the other, my two piece beach wear collection is hardly suited to training. I just placed an order for a cute Nike two-piece which I'm hoping will be a nice in-between.

Mom's home-grown peonies, up close and personal!

          Thanks for reading this little life update! How have you been? What are you loving lately?

Love, Dovey.

Friday Five : Spring, it's a thing! edition

         Happy Friday! I've been enjoying a lovely, green week on the East Coast. As a Chicagoan, it's nice to get out of the city and back to my country roots. There's something about wading through gravel and tall grass in wellies that leaves me feeling so much more connected to nature and the world around me. It's been a much needed refresher, to say the least! With that renewed spirit, here are five things I've been loving this week:

1. Spring issues
I felt like the May issue of Architectural Digest resonated with my newfound sentiments this week! For me, the brightest note was a tour of an 18th century riad, once home of Chilean painter Claudio Bravo (as seen on the magazine cover). Decor in turquoise, mint, and refreshing shades of green breathed life into what might otherwise be a traditional space. I'd love to find away to incorporate this into my home as well!

Of course, there were other Architectural Digest highlights this month, including trip to Cuba, a look at LA's newest landmark contemporary art museum : the Broad, and brief snaps of Goyard's new Upper East Side flagship.

I love the feeling of lightness here. It feels like the blooms are ready to float up to the sky!

2. A profusion of flowers
Walking down the road, I was struck by a profusion of gorgeous spring blooms --- not the kind you'd want to put in vase, but rather enjoy in nature, en face. Flowering trees have this wonderful effect; they're laden with an impossible number of blooms, yet seem to remain alight. I especially loved seeing a number of pear blossom trees (like above) - with their classic oblong shapes resembling balloons ready to take flight!

I wish I knew the name of this tree. The pink blossoms smell as lovely as one might imagine them to be!

3. Spring perfumes
I'm a spring perfumista at heart, so this is a wonderful season for my nose. I've been easing into spring florals with a wash with Pacifica California Star Jasmine, which is a nice light take on a potentially indolic bloom. I have a feeling I'll be working my way into my favorite Hermès Jour d' Hermès soon. I'm hoping to take the time to sniff out a few new spring scents this month. Hermès Jardin de Monsieur Li and Diptyque Florabellio are on my list thus far.

I love the renewed spring greens in these evergreens!

4. Road tripping
It's been a while since both Mr. Lovey and I have had time to hit the open road. Baby Bird and Robin (a.k.a. the pups) will be 'summer camping' at grandmas while the two of us continue our American explorations. Hopefully I'll have more to report, both here and on my Instagram feed!

 5. Lavender pink lacquer
Truth be told, I love this clean shade year round, but even more so as of late. I've been wearing Essie French Affair practically non-stop for the past couple of weeks. (I even packed the little bottle to take with me, in case I needed a new coat). At the moment, I've got on L'Oreal Hint of Lavender; my mom picked up the bottle recently. Apparently we're on the same wavelength with color!

          Thanks for reading! I'd love to hear what you've been up to lately!

Love, Dovey.

A few of my favorite things - May 2014

           In addition to the proverbial raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, I have 'A few of my favorite things' from May to share with you today! It's been a very busy spring so far; with twelve hour workdays becoming the norm, I've had to rely on a few carefully curated items to reach for on a day-to-day basis. Here's what made my shortlist:

1. Kate Spade white purse
This season I can't get enough of structured squares (the boxier the better)! This has been my go-to bag ever since I got it a few months ago. Not to mention, white is my favorite neutral (which you may have already guessed by now...)

2. Little rosettes
I just had to pick up these darling little rosettes; they have such a cute English garden-like feel! They're from my local Whole Foods (South Loop), which always carries a great seasonal selection.

3. CHANEL Poudre Universelle compacte
I love the iconic design of this little compact. It adds a soft finishing touch to my complexion! (Plus, I find that a little powder is necessary now that warmer weather is finally on its way).

4. Tortoiseshell shades
I'm so very partial to tortoiseshell patterns (probably a reflection of my New-Englander tendencies...) These shades have made a number of appearances on my Instagram and in my real-life rotation.

5. CHANEL pink lips
While peach does tempt me from time to time, at heart I'm a pink-lippie kind of girl. CHANEL makes some of the prettiest pinks --- I've been reaching for CHANEL Rouge Coco in Dedicace (click for my review) again. I keep meaning to pick up Magnolia and Liaison, which would make great additions to my collection as well!

6. Harper's Bazaar May 2014
When it comes to glossies, I'm a Harper's Bazaar kinda girl. (Have I converted any of you yet?) This month's issue is particularly fun, as it's their first beauty issue ever. Plus, I'm loving the fabulous swinger dress on cover-girl Kate Moss!

       Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed this month's edition of A few of my favorite things! What makeup, accessories, or glossies have you been enjoying recently?

Love, Dovey.

Butter London Sozzled nail lacquer review + swatches

         Whew, it's been a busy week, both beauty and work-wise! I'm still getting used to 4:30am starts (not sure I'll ever get completely adjusted!) And of course, there's the Sephora VIB sale that's going on this week. I've been writing and re-writing my wish list... maybe I'll treat myself to a little NARS, some skincare, and maybe a new scent?

         In terms of color, I've been going green for the past few weeks, layering shades of mint, grass, and leaves in my wardrobe. There's something wonderful about verdant shades when you're ready to hit the refresh button! My most recent pick-me-up has been Butter London Sozzled nail polish, from the new Lolly Brights collection, thanks to Butter London.

        From the promo photos and collection name, I had expected Butter London Sozzled to be a neon green. I was pleasantly surprised by the creme clover green that arrived!

         You can see my comparison swatches between Butter London Sozzled and other greens from my collection below. Butter London Wellies (click for review) and Butter London Jaded Jack (click for review) are much lighter yellow greens. Essie Going Incognito is a darker hunter green. China Glaze Exotic Encounters (click for review) is darker and has more blue tones.

           Overall, Butter London Sozzled is a lively creme for the upcoming season. It coordinates nicely with the other varied greens in my wardrobe, as well as adding a dash of moxie to my monochrome work wear!

         Thanks for reading! What are your favorite green lacquers? What Butter London polishes have you been reaching for lately? (And have you placed your Sephora VIB order yet?)

Love, Dovey.
Disclosure: This post contains product(s) sent to Cute and Mundane for consideration. The ideas and opinions in this post are genuine and my own.

NARS Deep Throat blush review + swatches

        Spring... it's a thing! It's been a tough few months, however I'm feeling more optimistic than ever today! The combination of sunny weather, a much needed vacation, and a jar of live tulip bulbs from Mr. Lovey have done wonders for lifting my spirits.

         In light of a season filled with natural beauty, one can't help but draw inspiration from delicate buds and shoots. I've found myself reaching for pretty peachy pinks more than ever. Recently I pulled out an old favorite of mine, NARS Deep throat blush. Like many well loved items in my collection, I had yet to review it! (And what better day could there be for that than today?)

        NARS Deep Throat was among the first NARS blushes in my collection. (I'm a huge fan of NARS O, so naturally I had to have Deep Throat as well). The light peachy pink color has a brightening effect on my skin. It glows, but to an understated extent. Generally I find it easier to pair dramatic eyes or bright lips with Deep Throat (vs. NARS O) for this reason.

          I'm getting sidetracked here, but I love how beautiful flowers are up close! What appears to be a plain pink tulip has such beautiful peach and mauve tones veined throughout. (That said, I do have a soft spot for pink tulips). Back to the blush...

          NARS Deep Throat is a peachy pink with a light golden sheen. The golden glow is enough to be natural without adding too much warmth. You'll notice that it swatches slightly more peach on me, due to some pink tones in my skin. When comparing NARS Orgasm vs. NARS Deep Throat, their pinky-peach bases are somewhat similar when swatched heavily. However, O has a bit more sheerness on application and adds depth with its golden glow. NARS Deep Throat, on the other hand, is more pigmented, peachy, and less glowy. NARS Super Orgasm blush is more pink. It has a similar finish, however you'll notice a number of large gold glitter sparkles. Chantecaille Coral (click for review) has much more orange (after all, it's a coral!) Tarte Glisten blush (click for review) is more pink, pigmented, and has a golden glow.

           Overall, NARS Deep Throat blush is a gorgeous peachy pink shade for spring! It's been a staple shade for me these days --- and keeps me looking as optimistic as I feel! It has lovely pigmentation and application; my only qualm, as with all NARS blushes, is that my skin does tend to be sensitive to the formulation, limiting my wear time.

        Thanks for reading! Are you a fan of NARS Deep Throat as well? What are your favorite NARS blushes? What shades of blush have you been reaching for this spring?

Love, Dovey.

Friday Five : Radiant resolutions for 2014 edition

It's a 'radiant orchid' year!

           Happy Friday! Perhaps the most famous (or infamous) ritual of New Year's celebrations is the making of New Year's resolutions. After giving it a lot of thought, I've carefully pruned and shaped a list of five personal goals that should keep me on track and happy this year! Today I have, at long last, my five 'radiant resolutions' to share with you on this edition of Friday Five! Enjoy!

1. Cultivate radiant orchids
I've had a fascination with flowers for as long as I can remember, and then some (remembered via family VHS!). Some of my fondest grade school memories involve picking out a few stems with my pocket money, whether it be at a farmer's market or a local shop. Fast forward to last year - I acquired a few orchid plants for the very first time! It's been a joy caring for them and getting them to flower again. Seeing as 'radiant orchid' is the color of the year, I can't think of a better goal than to hone my orchid cultivating skills, and perhaps add a few new blooms to my collection!

2. Climb on
I started indoor rock climbing in the late 1990's. However, since then, I've probably climbed only once or twice a year in the last decade. Since my brother (the flying squirrel) has begun climbing regularly again, I've been inspired to get my act together as well. My goal is to become a regular 5.11a climber from my current 5.10's (climbing difficulty ranks from 5.0 to 5.15). It's going to be tough for this couch potato. Currently I can do zero pullups and one (yes, only one) pushup. I'm going to work on some strength training and yoga to help elevate my game.

3. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is a resolution worthy every new year. It's the key to good skin and a sense of overall well-being. I'm planning to get plenty of use out of my Kleen Kanteen collection and a cute new Kate Spade Thermos I received for Christmas. On a related note, I'm hoping to treat myself to more salt soaks and steam facials as well; these simple water-based treatments do wonders for my skin!

4. Resist the temptation to cut my hair
I think we all have moments where we're itching for a life change, and all too often the victim is our hair. While a new light and fluffy 'do feels great initially, I inevitably start to pine for longer strands a couple weeks later. It's not that I'm afraid of going short (I had a bob during most of undergrad); I just find that collarbone-or-longer length hair suits my aesthetic a bit better!

5. Reach the finish line
I have a jam-packed academic schedule (especially this year!) and a tendency to start more projects than I can handle, both in blogging and otherwise. I'd like to focus this year on working diligently, but more importantly leaving no ends untied! There's no reason to miss out on the satisfaction (and the joyful unburdened feeling) of fully completing things.

         I'm hoping these resolutions will help me lead a richer, more radiant life, which will hopefully reflect itself here on Cute and Mundane! Thanks for reading! Did we have any goals in common for 2014? Do you have any orchid cultivation tips? I'd love to hear some of your resolutions this year!

Love, Dovey.