I’m classic casual chic in black and white stripes and wide leg jeans for my first post of 2025. The jeans were the only piece of clothing I received as a gift for Christmas but what a good item to receive! This petite gal found a pair that checks off all the boxes – style, comfort, and a decent price point.
Ribbed Sweater and Wide Leg Jeans
These wide leg jeans are by Wit & Wisdom and I’m obsessed! Somehow they weren’t too long on me even though they aren’t a petite size. They are also super soft and the fit is fabulous. The dark color gives off a dressy vibe and they are priced under a $100. I plan on recommending these to my clients if they need a pair.
The ribbed striped top was a find when I was doing last minute shopping at Kohl’s. I never get sick of black and white and it works perfectly with the high-waisted jeans. It’s also a great layering piece under blazers, jackets, and vest like I am wearing below.
To Vest or not to Vest?
Do you like the added vest? Or do you prefer to keep it simple with just the sweater? I like that the vest adds a bit of edge and dresses up the look even more. I’ve had this vest for years but love that I can wear it with wide leg jeans which is a newer addition to my wardrobe.
Today I’m sharing Christmas Day church style – embracing elegance in a beautiful blue velvet midi dress. I wore this dress for my flute recital in November. I had to find a way to wear it again and Christmas Day seems like the perfect time. Keep reading to the end to see what I’ll be sharing in this dress soon.
Vince Camuto Velvet Cowl Neck Ruffle Midi Dress
Isn’t this dress so pretty with its peacock blue color? As soon as I saw it, I knew it would be perfect for my recital. I had been struggling to find something that was comfortable to wear so I could breathe but still be elegant. The asymmetrical line towards the bottom and the cowl neck neckline is so flattering. The velvet fabric is extremely soft too. It also comes in a fuchsia color but this teal blue shade was perfect for the mood that I wanted for my recital which took place at night.
I paired it with these sparkly kitten heels that contrasted nicely with the dress. The shoes are extremely comfy as well and made it easy for me to perform that night. I hope to wear these heels throughout the year because of its neutral color. The rhinestones on the tops of these shoes make me so happy. ??
Today I’m sharing how to wear brown and black together this holiday season. We see lots of red and green and even pink this time of year but what about solid neutral colors? Many of my clients shy away pairing brown and black in a look but there is no reason to fear. This chic color palette will look amazing now and even after all the holiday parties are over.
Shimmer Dotted Twist Front Top in Caramel Brown
The star of this outfit is this festive top from Chicwish. This top is the last piece I had to share from my collaboration with them. The very fun polka dot pattern and the flattering twist front detail and cutout make this top extra special. Because of its snug fit, it works wonderfully layered under a leather jacket, blazer, or cardigan. Brown is having its moment again this season so why not incorporate it into your holiday wardrobe?
New Favorites – Spanx Ponte Wide Leg Pants and Cosy Island Sock Booties
I loved my Spanx flared jeans so much that I decided to try out a pair of wide leg pants from them. They were on sale during Black Friday weekend. I am happy to report that they are amazing and should be added to every woman’s wardrobe. Talk about comfort and style! I got a petite size and there is no need for me to hem. Yay! These pants have a seam that goes down each leg which really helps elongate the body. I have been impressed with all of the clothing from Spanx.
Now on to my new favorite booties from Cosy Island. I shared my leopard mules on this blog last week which are so comfy to wear. These booties are the same and even more so. Even though there is a stiletto heel, I wore them to work for 5 hours with no problems. I am seriously thinking of buying the same pair in black.
It’s time to focus on what to wear to your next holiday party that sparkles and shines. You need to go no further than Chicwish clothing. I was so excited to do another collaboration with them because they are a one-stop shop for all things that have glamorous holiday style. You can easily find the perfect dress, top, or skirt that will make you shine this holiday season. Take a look at what I will be wearing in the upcoming weeks.
Fuzzy Wrap Knit Top with Tulle Maxi Skirt
I am in love with this dreamy holiday look! The fuzzy sweater is so flattering because of the wrap details and it’s so comfy to wear. Pairing it with this beautiful tulle maxi dress is a no-brainer but I plan on wearing it with my flared jeans for a fun going out look. Because of the black and white color scheme, this outfit is timeless in my opinion.
The pumps are new as well and are a part of another collaboration I’m doing with Cosy Island. I cannot get over how comfortable their shoes are! I think the leopard print adds a bit of whimsy to this look.
Sparkling Bowknot Knit Cardigan and Sequin Mermaid Maxi Skirt
The color of this cardigan with these gorgeous rhinestone bows makes my heart sing! Add that flattering V neckline and the lantern sleeves and you’ve got a fabulous top. Wearing it with jeans or pants will work great but why not take it up a notch and pair it with this sequined mermaid maxi skirt? This combination is the ultimate in holiday glamour.
You can mix match all of these pieces this holiday season. Which one is your fave?
Add an elegant pearl touch to your holiday looks this season. This gorgeous crochet pearl flower top was something I discovered at the boutique that I work at. I couldn’t think of a more perfect top to wear for all those holiday parties. What are you wearing for all the parties you plan on attending?
She + Sky Open Crochet Pearl Flower Top with Cami
I have found this top at a couple of online stores so you aren’t out of luck if you want one for yourself. Every single time we received this top (so far in black and cream) it’s sold out in less than a week. I chose to pair it with my flared jeans for a fun going out look but feel free to pair it with any type of skirt. Because of the crop length, I think it would look fabulous with a fit and flare midi dress.
When wearing clothing with pearl accents, keep your accessories simple and minimal. There is no need to compete with the beautiful elegance of pearls.
Turn your functional bathroom into something a bit more exciting with a few carefully chosen plant friends.
That steamy shower environment might actually be perfect for certain greenery to thrive…yep, really!
Beyond just looking beautiful, bathroom plants can help purify your air and bring a natural touch of calm to your daily routine. Think mini spa vibes, minus the expensive renovation.
I’ve rounded up 12 plants that don’t just survive but actually love bathroom life – from humidity-loving tropicals to low-light champions. These picks are surprisingly easy to care for.
1.Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is like the elegant multitasker of the plant world. With its glossy leaves and classic white blooms, it’s become a tried-and-true favourite for good reason.
This graceful plant doesn’t just sit pretty on your bathroom shelf, it’s also hard at work filtering indoor air pollutants, all while thriving in those typically tricky low-light bathroom conditions.
2.Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is an unfussy succulent that asks for little attention while offering plenty in return – from its modern, sculptural form to its practical healing benefits.
Beyond its easy-care nature, Aloe doubles as a natural first-aid essential, with its soothing gel ready whenever you need it. A sunny spot in your bathroom is all it needs to thrive.
3.Snake Plant
The Snake Plant might possibly be the most laid-back addition to your bathroom lineup. This architectural beauty stands tall and striking, yet asks for almost nothing in return.
Perfect for busy plant parents, it thrives even in those darker bathroom corners where other plants might sulk.
Better yet?
If you decide to catch a few z’s while you soak, your Snake Plant is working overtime, releasing fresh oxygen and filtering out unwanted indoor pollutants.
4.Boston Fern
Looking to add a touch of lush greenery? The Boston Fern is your go-to bathroom companion.
This classic beauty actually loves what most plants don’t – your bathroom’s naturally humid environment.
Those feathery fronds aren’t just for show (though they do bring an effortless tropical feel). While thriving in indirect light, this fern quietly works as a natural air purifier, helping to keep your space fresher.
5.Spider Plant
The Spider Plant brings a bit of playful elegance to your bathroom with its arching leaves and dangling “babies.”
Easy-going by nature, it’s the kind of plant that makes you look like a pro gardener without trying too hard.
Those cascading strands aren’t just for show – this resilient plant is quietly cleaning your air while adding a touch of natural movement to your space.
It handles lower light like a champ, making it perfect for bathroom life.
6.Cast Iron Plant
The Cast Iron Plant is a no-nonsense bathroom plant that lives up to its sturdy name. True to its reputation, this resilient plant handles just about anything bathroom life throws its way.
For those of us who appreciate low-maintenance greenery (or perhaps have accidentally neglected a plant or two), this tough beauty thrives even when forgotten.
Its deep green leaves bring a calm, grounding presence to your space without demanding much in return.
7.ZZ Plant
Meet the ZZ Plant – the definition of effortless cool in the plant world. With stems that grow like polished wands and leaves so glossy they almost look artificial, it’s nature’s answer to modern design.
Fun fact: this plant is so resilient it was originally discovered thriving in the dry grasslands of East Africa!
This beauty actually prefers those tricky bathroom conditions that make other plants complain. Its thick, potato-like rhizomes store water like a natural survival pro, meaning it won’t throw a fit if you forget to water it for weeks.
While you’re going about your daily routine, it’s quietly filtering out household pollutants and making your space a bit healthier.
8.English Ivy
Enter English Ivy – the charming climber who’s more than just a pretty face. This classic beauty has a secret superpower: it’s actually one of nature’s best defences against bathroom mould and mildew.
Those elegant trailing vines aren’t just adding a touch of European cottage charm to your space.
While some plants merely tolerate humidity, English Ivy embraces it. Place it on a high shelf or in a hanging basket, and watch as it creates graceful cascades that can transform your bathroom into something straight out of a cosy English garden.
Its delicate leaves come in varieties ranging from deep forest green to variegated patterns that catch the light.
9.Golden Pothos
Golden Pothos is the easygoing vine that brings a touch of sunshine to your bathroom.
With heart-shaped leaves marbled in green and gold, this trailing beauty transforms plain bathroom corners into something special.
Give it a perch on a high shelf or in a hanging basket, and watch as it creates graceful cascades that soften your space.
This gorgeous plant will enjoy your bathroom’s steamy environment, using that extra moisture to keep its leaves lush and vibrant.
10.Lucky Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo is the graceful overachiever that brings a hint of zen to your bathroom.
Despite its name, it’s actually not bamboo at all – it’s part of the Dracaena family, known for its adaptable nature and striking spiral stems.
While soaking up your bathroom’s natural humidity (no extra misting needed), it’s busy filtering out everyday pollutants and freshening your air. You can grow it in water or soil, and it can even be shaped into spirals and other artistic forms as it grows.
Perfect for adding a touch of tranquillity to your space, Lucky Bamboo has been considered a symbol of good fortune in Asian cultures for thousands of years.
Let’s give curly hair its crown for a moment – it’s beautiful and unique, but sometimes it feels like it has a mind of its own.
If you’re part of the curly crew, you know the eternal quest for that perfect product that can tackle dryness, define curls, and tame frizz without weighing down your precious coils.
Enter argan oil, the golden elixir that’s been creating quite the buzz in the curly community.
Sourced from the kernels of Morocco’s native argan tree, this liquid gold has been a beauty secret for centuries. But there’s some serious science behind why this oil has become a holy grail product for curly-haired folks everywhere.
Ron Robinson, a cosmetic chemist, tells Allure that argan oil is “rich in fatty acids and works to condition the hair and provide shine,” so it’s no surprise that those with curly hair swear by its smoothing and defining powers.
Whether you’re rocking loose waves, tight coils, or anything in between, argan oil might just be the answer to your curl prayers.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about argan oil for curly hair. From its rich composition to practical application tips, consider this your comprehensive roadmap to understanding why this natural wonder has earned its spot in countless curly hair care routines.
What Makes Argan Oil So Special?
Before we get into how argan oil works its magic on curls, let’s break down what’s actually in this golden elixir. Argan oil contains a powerful cocktail of nutrients, including:
Essential fatty acids (including linoleic acid)
Vitamin E
Antioxidants
Natural phenols
Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids
These compounds work together to create a moisturising powerhouse that curly hair absolutely loves!
Why Curly Hair and Argan Oil Are a Perfect Match
Curly hair tends to be naturally drier than straight hair because the spiral shape makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft – which is exactly why argan oil’s molecular structure makes it so effective.
Its small molecules can penetrate the hair shaft rather than just sitting on top, helping to repair damage from the inside out and providing deep moisturising properties that curly hair craves!
Argan oil is packed with vitamin E, ferulic acid, and carotenoids – antioxidants that help protect hair from environmental damage and UV rays.
Plus, its high content of oleic and linoleic acids helps seal moisture into the hair shaft, reducing frizz and enhancing curl pattern.
For best results, warm a few drops between your palms before scrunching into damp hair, focusing on mid-lengths to ends.
A little goes a long way – start with less than you think you need!
The Benefits of Argan Oil for Curly Hair
Deep Moisture Without the Weight – Unlike some hair oils that can leave curls feeling heavy and greasy, argan oil provides moisture without weighing down your curls. This makes it an ideal styling product for achieving defined, bouncy curls.
Split End Prevention and Repair – The fatty acids in argan oil help seal the hair cuticle, reducing the appearance of split ends and preventing future damage. While it can’t technically “heal” split ends (only trimming can do that), it can make them less noticeable and prevent new ones from forming.
Promotes Healthy Hair Growth – Argan oil helps stimulate hair growth by nourishing hair follicles, improving scalp health, increasing blood circulation and providing essential nutrients for healthy hair growth.
Frizz Fighting Power – The moisturising properties of argan oil help smooth the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and promoting better curl definition. It’s like a natural curl definer!
4 Ways To Use Argan Oil in Your Curly Hair Care Routine
As a Pre-Shampoo Treatment – Apply pure argan oil to your dry hair and scalp 30 minutes before washing. This helps protect your curls during the cleansing process and provides deep nourishment.
As a Styling Product – Add 2-3 drops to your palms, rub them together, and apply to damp curls before your other styling products. This helps lock in moisture and prepare your hair for styling.
For Daily Maintenance – Use a tiny amount on dry hair to refresh curls, tame frizz, and add shine between wash days.
In Your Hair Mask – Mix a few drops of argan oil into your favourite deep conditioning mask for extra moisturising benefits.
Tips for Using Argan Oil
Less is More – Start with a small amount – you can always add more if needed. Too much oil can make even the driest curls look greasy.
Quality Matters – Look for pure, cold-pressed argan oil without added ingredients. Yes, it might be pricier, but a little goes a long way.
Timing is Everything – Apply to damp hair for best absorption and curl definition.
When to Be Cautious
While argan oil is generally safe for all hair types, those with very fine curls might want to use it sparingly or only on their ends. If you have a sensitive scalp, do a patch test before applying it directly to your scalp.
Q. What Are The Disadvantages Of Argan Hair Oil?
A. While this liquid gold is amazing, it comes with a few considerations.
Pure, high-quality argan oil often comes with a luxury price tag that might make your wallet wince. For those of us with finer hair types, too much can leave strands looking more slick than sleek.
And if you have nut sensitivities, you’ll want to patch test first. Not to mention, some varieties have a distinct natural scent that might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Q. Do You Use Argan Oil On Wet or Dry Hair?
A. Argan oil is it’s versatile enough to work both ways, but timing is everything. Think of damp hair as your ideal canvas: it’s when your strands are most receptive to soaking up all that goodness.
Apply it right after towel-drying for that sweet spot of moisture-locking and curl definition.
For dry hair days? A tiny amount can rescue frizz and add shine in seconds – just remember, a little goes a long way.
Q. Which Oil Is The Best For Curly Hair?
A. While argan oil gets plenty of well-deserved spotlight, your perfect match depends on your curl’s unique personality.
Coconut oil might be your go-to if your hair loves protein, while jojoba oil mimics your hair’s natural oils perfectly.
Castor oil has become a cult favourite for thickness seekers, and sweet almond oil offers a lighter touch.
The Bottom Line
So, is argan oil good for curly hair? Absolutely!
This natural oil contains all the right ingredients to keep your curls healthy, hydrated, and happy. Whether you’re dealing with dry hair, frizz, or damage, argan oil can be a valuable addition to your hair care collection.
Remember that everyone’s curls are different, so what works for one person might not work for another. Start slowly, experiment with different application methods, and pay attention to how your curls respond. With consistent use, argan oil can help transform your curls from dry and frizzy to soft, defined, and gorgeous.
Ready to give argan oil a try? Look for pure, high-quality oil and start incorporating it into your routine. Your curls are about to get a whole lot happier!
Ever notice how some days your curls just cooperate perfectly? Those rare moments when every curl is defined, bouncy, and moisturised, and you wish you could recreate that magic every morning!
Well, the good news is that those perfect hair days CAN become much more frequent. The secret lies in DIY deep conditioners for curly hair – treatments that nourish your curls from within and transform your natural hair care routine.
Whether you’re embracing your natural texture or nursing over-processed strands back to health, I’m about to share three simple treatments you can whip up from ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll explore these effective treatments and understand why deep conditioning is crucial for curly hair.
Why Your Curly Hair Is Begging for Deep Conditioning
Curly hair is structurally different from straight hair, and not just in the obvious ways.
Those beautiful coils and curves that make your hair unique actually create a bit of an obstacle course for your natural oils. While straight hair lets oils glide down like a water slide, curly hair makes those nurturing oils work for it!
Each twist and turn in your curl pattern creates a barrier that makes it harder for your scalp’s natural moisture to reach the ends of your hair.
Think of it like trying to get water through a twisted garden hose – it’s just not as smooth a journey. This is exactly why your hair needs that extra moisture boost that deep conditioning provides.
Plus, if you colour, heat style, or live in a dry climate, your curls lose moisture at a significantly faster rate.
That’s why deep conditioning shouldn’t be seen as an optional treatment – it’s an essential step that provides your curls with the hydration they desperately need.
Deep Conditioner vs Regular Conditioner: What’s Really The Difference?
Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all! While both products aim to make your curls happier, they work quite differently. Think of regular conditioner as your daily multivitamin, while deep conditioner is like an intensive wellness retreat for your hair.
Regular Conditioner
Lightweight formula that works on the surface
Detangles and adds immediate slip
Typically stays on for 3-5 minutes
Designed for daily or co-washing use
Focuses on surface-level moisture
Washes out easily
Good for basic maintenance
Deep Conditioner
Thicker, more concentrated formula
Penetrates deeply into the hair shaft
Needs 20-30 minutes to work its magic
Used weekly or bi-weekly
Repairs and restructures from within
Contains more intensive ingredients
Targets specific hair concerns
How Often Should You Deep Condition?
According to Michelle Blaisure, certified trichologist and technical specialist for Bosley Professional Strength, “Conditioners are valuable for all hair types but it is the frequency of conditioning that can vary based on different types/textures.”
While your specific hair type is the ultimate deciding factor, most curly hair thrives with deep conditioning every 1-2 weeks.
If your curls are particularly parched, colour-treated or damaged, you might want to bump it up to weekly sessions or every time you shampoo.
But here’s the key: listen to your hair. Is it feeling soft and manageable? You’re on the right track. Feeling a bit limp or heavy? Maybe dial back the frequency.
Too much of a good thing can definitely be counterproductive!
Remember that GREAT feeling of perfect curl definition after a fresh wash day? Now imagine maintaining that bounce and vitality even after eight hours of beauty sleep. Sounds like a dream, right?
As someone who’s navigated the ups and downs of curly hair care since going natural in 2017 (and yes, literally woken up looking like I’d been electrocuted), I’m here to share the secrets of how to protect your curly hair at night that actually work – backed by science and real-world experience.
Whether you’re dealing with gentle waves or tight coils, that morning masterpiece starts with your nighttime routine.
Throwing your hair up and hoping for the best just doesn’t cut it!
The Science Behind Nighttime Curl Care: Why Your Evening Routine Matters
Let’s get a bit nerdy for a moment because understanding your curls means knowing how to protect them.
Each curl on your head is like a delicate spring with a unique structure. When you look at curly hair under a microscope, you’ll notice the hair shaft isn’t uniform like straight hair – it has an elaborate pattern that gives your curls their signature bounce.
The Overnight Challenge
During sleep, three main factors affect your curls:
Friction: Every toss and turn creates friction between your head and bedding, which can rough up the hair cuticle and create frizz. This is especially damaging when your scalp’s natural oils haven’t made their way down your hair shaft (a common challenge with curly hair).
Moisture Loss: Your hair loses moisture throughout the night, particularly in dry climates or heated rooms. Less moisture equals more frizz and undefined curls come morning.
Compression: The weight of your head against traditional pillowcases can literally flatten and distort your curl pattern while you sleep.
There’s something eternally enchanting about the ballet aesthetic that goes way beyond the barre. The good news is, you don’t need to know your plié from your pirouette to embrace this ultra-feminine trend that’s taking over our social feeds.
Balletcore outfits aren’t just about throwing on a tutu and calling it a day (though we’re not opposed to a bit of tulle!).
It’s about capturing that perfect blend of strength and softness, comfort and elegance – something we could all use a bit more of in our everyday lives, right?
Whether you’re working from home, meeting friends for brunch, or heading to the office, I’ve curated 27 wearable balletcore outfits that won’t make you look like you got lost on your way to dance class.
Think ballet flats (obviously!), romantic layers, and subtle nods to dancewear that feel completely modern and totally achievable!
1.The Ethereal Layered Look
A dreamy all-white ensemble that perfectly captures ballet’s romantic essence. The tiered chiffon skirt paired with a delicate lace bralette and flowing button-down creates gorgeous movement. It’s giving major warm-up vibes, but make it street-style!
Pro tip: Layer similar pieces in cream or ivory to create depth while keeping that ethereal feel.
2.Sweet & Strong Contrast
This look is pure balletcore magic! A pink cable-knit jumper (complete with an adorable heart cutout!) meets a black tulle skirt with lace trim. The leg warmers and bow-detailed flats are gorgeous. Perfect for those who love mixing sweet and edgy elements.
Style hack: Try different coloured leg warmers to switch up the vibe.
3.Garden Ballet Romance
This white and powder-blue tiered dress hits the sweet spot where balletcore meets plazacore – and does it beautifully!
The ruffled layers and delicate lace details channel your inner ballerina, while the puff sleeves and feminine silhouette give major European plaza vibes.
Those chunky Mary Janes with frilly socks are giving both “off-duty dancer” and “strolling through a Parisian garden” energy. Perfect for garden parties, weekend brunches, or twirling through rose gardens pretending you’re in a European courtyard.
The ribbon in the hair adds that extra touch of ballet-meets-plaza charm that ties the whole aesthetic together.
4.Modern Marie Antoinette
A masterclass in balletcore elegance! The white ruffled top with statement sleeves pairs beautifully with that twirl-worthy blush pink skirt. Those chunky Mary Janes add a contemporary edge while staying true to the ballet aesthetic.
5.Dark Romance
A gorgeous twist on traditional balletcore with a brown geometric print bodysuit paired with a black mini skirt. The leg warmers and structured bag add sophistication, while the sleek bun keeps things classic. It’s giving “principal dancer heading to evening rehearsal” energy.
6.Practice Room Pretty
A modern take on dancewear with pink ruffle-tiered shorts and a white pearl-embellished long-sleeve crop top that gives a subtle nod to the Y2K revival.
The pearl choker adds the perfect finishing touch. Perfect for those who want to channel their inner dancer while keeping things contemporary.
7.Pink Satin Afternoon
A classic ballerina-off-duty look featuring a blush pink midi dress with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt. The matching pink ballet flats and woven grey bag add modern sophistication. It’s the perfect blend of dance studio elegance and everyday grace.
8.Black Swan Elegance
A stunning off-shoulder dress that combines a black bodice with a white tulle skirt – pure ballet drama! Those crystal bow heels and YSL bag add the perfect touch of luxury.
9.Winter Swan Vibes
A dreamy ensemble with a white furry-trimmed cardigan, pink pleated tennis skirt, and white knee-high boots. The heart-shaped pink bag is such a sweet touch!
10.Sweet Sophistication
A dreamy combination of pink turtleneck layered under an iridescent dress with leg warmers and ballet flats. The pink beret adds that perfect French-inspired touch! The holographic fabric catches the light just like stage costumes but makes it totally wearable for the day.
