Fall Candle Scents

Hi guys, quick post today on candles & scents. I love burning candles throughout the year, but especially during the season transition into Fall/Winter. Something so cozy and comfortable about having a subtle yet aromatic scent burning in the background. I love relaxing in my room with my favorite candle lit, while catching up on some reading, magazines, or just getting inspired in general about things around me that I want to write & share with you guys about! Or my other favorite thing to do is lighting up a candles while taking a long, much needed bath (with some bubbles for fun!). What's your favorite candle brand and/or scent and when do you usually light up your candles? Please tell me in comments below!

cheers, julie

(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

I fell in love with Capri Blue candles some time ago - you guys probably may have smelled the scent when walking into your nearby Anthopologie stores. They usually have it burning throughout their stores and I almost every time do a "wait, that smells so good" -- and walk back to where it initially caught my attention.

They have a pretty wide selection of scents - ranging from Jasmine & Rain to Mandarin & Peony.

My favorite scents by far are Volcano & Aloha Orchid. Volcano is a bit exotic with tropical fruit & citrus lemon/lime, where as Aloha Orchid is more floral with orchids, jasmine and white blossoms.

It’s fascinating how certain candles can be more luxurious & elegant. That’s how I feel about Voluspa candles, just by looking at their packaging (sometimes, I am more attracted by the packaging than anything else!) I feel like each candle light adds a bit of elegance. 

Voluspa uses creamy coconut wax blend that enhances the fragrance & burns clean (rather than leaving you with any burnt smell). 

One of my favorite scents (really one of many) is the Citron Vert & Vanille, characterized with tart green citron, caramel sugar, whipped creme fraîche and vanilla. It really smells as yummy as it reads.

Speaking of packaging, Jo Malone's signature cream packaging with black edging is so iconic. I love her success story – she started by making her own perfumes with flowers from her garden & grated soap, and at the age of only 19, she took her personal passion to an actual business, featuring handmade scents & products. So inspiring.

I love how Jo Malone candles pair unusual ingredients you may not expect and create very versatile fragrances.

My personal favorite: Orange Blossom & Nectarine Blossom & Honey, featuring subtle blend of floral + fruit without smelling too sweet.

Fallin' in Floral

Hi guys, hope you had a great weekend! I had a fun day on Saturday, with a quick outing to Knott’s Berry Farm, not even for the amusement park part, but to get yummy southern fried chicken @ the Knott’s chicken dinner restaurant :) It’s one of those spots I crave on a hot summer weekend (even though it’s technically Fall) and just want to be lazy! To match my “lazy weekend,” I wanted to wear something super comfortable & flowy (and honestly, something that was going to give me easy breathing room lol). So for this look, I paired a vibrant floral dress with brown suede ankle boots. Because there were a lot of colors already to this outfit, I kept the accessories light with watch with white leather band + pastel based jeweled bracelets. This outfit was light enough for the hot weather, but still carried a warm Fall tone. I love all things floral + earthy tones, which tend to give casual yet put-together look as long as you mix/match right – also these tones are pretty fool-proof, and not very hard to coordinate. Enjoy!

cheers, julie

(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

Outfit

Dress: Anthropologie Botanica Swing Dress

Clutch: American Apparel Carry All Pouch

Shoes:  Minnetonka Ankle Hi Boot

Watch: Michele Urban Mini 

Bracelet: Jcrew (similar here)

Weekly Obsessions

Hey guys, Friday is finally here! I'm seriously looking forward to the weekend after this long work week - I don't know about you guys, but it sure was a long one. As much as I LOVE Fall (recent realization as my favorite season), since the weather is picking up again in LA this weekend (mid 70s!), I'm going to put every effort in enjoying the summer-like weather. Possibly some floral shorts with cropped tops? Also been wanting to check out a fish taco spot (cheat meal!). Hope you guys have a fabulous weekend. Follow me on instagram for weekend updates/looks! :)

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

a. Plum seems to be the universal lip color for Fall - are you going to give this a try?
b. H&M's sister brand, COS is coming to US - and we don't have to wait until next Spring to get our hands on it. COS is setting up a month-long pop-up shop @ Opening Ceremony on Howard Street in Soho, as well as on openingceremony online
c. I like Refinery29's diverse picks on Booties for this Winter to keep us nice & toasty
d. For red wine lovers, I thought this was a great easy to follow tip showing how to pick your red wines
e. Loving this "beauty moment" with Kate Bosworth - her style just seems so effortless

photo credit: nymag, refinery29, fashionista, cupcakesandcashmere, vogue

Classic Leather Pumps Under $100

Hi guys, as a follow up to last week's post on "Classic Leather Designer Pumps" - I wanted to share my finds on more affordable options, but still giving you that classic look. This is a great alternative to high price-tagged designer pumps, without breaking the bank! All under $100 -- you can find great pairs of black pumps with 100% leather, so you're still getting great value for your dollars (rather than paying for synthetic, polyurethane leather). One of my favorite brands is Vince Camuto (you'll see that I picked 3 of the 6 pairs from this brand ha!), as I think their leather is pretty darn good quality for the money and his shoes typically last me for few years without really wearing out or deteriorating. I first discovered it via Nordstrom, but when I was visiting New York a few years back, I stumbled upon their boutique store inside Grand Central Station and I went nuts! Since then, I try to stock up on their classic pumps that come in both plain & patent leather in variety of styles (platform, heels, rounded, peep toe, etc).

For other affordable options, Ann Taylor has great ones called the "Perfect Pumps" (the name says it all) -- I recommend getting it in stores, as these pumps often sell-out quite fast. Jessica Simpson is another one of my go-to options for affordable black pumps that are your Louboutin look-alikes :) Enjoy!

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

1. Ann Taylor Perfect Leather Pumps ($60)
2. Vince Camuto Zella Pumps ($98)
3. Vince Camuto Sarika Patent Pumps ($98)
4. Jessica Simpson Abriana Leather Pumps ($60 - on sale!)
5. Vince Camuto Hallee Pumps ($98)
6. Sole Society Topanga pumps ($70)

Water For the Skin

Hi guys, I wanted to share one of my favorite beauty items that I absolutely cannot live without (sounds like an over exaggeration, but honestly that's how amazing this product is). I have been using AmorePacific Moisture Bound Skin Energy Hydration Delivery System - a super long name for hydrating mist - for over a year, and it's hands down a-mazing! With the dryness that Fall/Winter season brings, a travel size hydrating mist is always a great item to keep in your purse, so that you can spritz as you please throughout the day to give your skin hydration & energy boost.

It's really is an incredible product that not only gives your skin instant hydration, but also gives a bit of radiance/glow and your skin visibly looks more moisturized. I also love that you can use this over your make-up, and I've noticed it also softens your "done" make-up look and gives that natural glow. I love anything that makes your skin NOT look dry & makes it glow!

As you guys know, I did an earlier post on preventing dry skin -- and the AmorePacific hydrating mist has "Aqua Sponge Complex" which stimulates Hyaluronic acid production, which is an element that improves skin's ability to retain water & prevents dehydration to keep your skin moisturized. So definitely give this item a try, to keep your skin nice & supple throughout the dry seasons!

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

Fall Beauty Trend: Cat Eye Makeup

Hi guys, hope you all had a fabulous weekend! Mine was jam-packed with John Mayer concert @ the Hollywood Bowl and getting some comfort food/fried chicken @ Knott's Berry Farm. Super random, but it was a fun-filled weekend indeed! 

Switching gears (yes, the most awkward segue from fried chicken to cat eye makeup ha!) - the Cat Eye makeup is always in fashion from my opinion, but for Fall especially it's a casual, chic, yet dramatic way to amp up your overall look this season. Key is to use black liquid eyeliner that is *waterproof* - this is the most fool-proof way to get that chic cat eye without it smudging or looking too dull. Highlight of this look is really the bold/black-ness and the pop against your facial features. 

For today's post, I wanted to share some of my favorite liquid eyeliners to prep you for that perfect cat eye look. As a Part 2 of this post, will be posting a "how to get the perfect cat eye" next week - so stay tuned for that!

1. Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner ($20)
2. Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner ($19)
3. Make Up Forever Aqua Liner ($23)
4. Marc Jacobs Magic Marc'er Precision Pen ($30)
5. YSL Liquid Eyeliner ($30)
6. Smashbox Love Me Paint Pen Eyeliner ($24)

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

photo credit: totalbeauty, harpersbazaar, fabfashionfix, yahoo, sephora

Weekly Obsessions

Hi guys, TGIF!! What's everyone's plans for the weekend? I have been very good in terms of eating healthy & incorporating some work outs lately (well in my books - it's been healthy, but I did sneak in an ice cream here and a soft serve there) :) So I am treating myself to some comfort food this weekend - hint: something fried! Check out my instagram this weekend to find out!! Also a fun-filled weekend with a concert @ the Hollywood Bowl with my all-time favorite artist (see my previous post for a teaser)! Have a pleasant weekend, everyone!

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

a. Carey Mulligan's new brunette do is to die for - really reminiscent of Fall :)
b. HonestlyWTF gives the perfect step-by-step instructions for creating your own DIY tassel sandals. Love!
c. Obsessing over my Dita Vesoul sunglasses in tortoise - classic oversized frame in cat eye, what's NOT to love?
d. French know denim - love these 9 looks of easy denim jeans paired with complementing tops
e. Would you rock the Bordeaux lip color? It's dark glamour, bold, and definite Fall trend!

photo credit: huffingtonpost, honestlywtf, ditalegends, luckymag, vogue

Fall Essential: The Chunky Sweater

Hi guys! Fall is here, and what better item symbolizes the entrance into Fall than a chunky, oversized sweater. Chunky sweaters are a must for Fall - they are so comfy and warm for the Fall/Winter season, yet you can dress them up & down depending on the mood you're in. Ironic enough, chunky oversized sweaters paired with leggings or skinny jeans can be very flattering on the figure, and can give you a slimmed down look, all while looking comfy & chic. Rest assured, I'm here to give you a couple of different ways to rock the chunky sweater look - ENJOY!!

1. Solid Colored Chunky

Solid colored oversized sweaters especially in cream or light beige paired with your favorite skinny jeans = casual, comfy chic. Give it an extra Fall-esque look with long, loose waves. Ditch those highlights & dye it back to your natural shade. I'm desperately missing my long hair right now!! 

2. Fun in Color Block

  If you're a bit more bold, and looking for a fun twist on oversized sweaters, color block sweaters is 

  the answer. Contrast the baggy sweater with black leggings + ankle booties and this will complete

  your ultimate Fall look. I'm obsessed with ankle booties - especially in camel! Stay tuned next week 

  for my picks on ankle booties!

3. Cable Knit It

There's something so cozy and feminine about cable knit sweaters. Give it an extra preppy look (which I LOVE for Fall) with a collared shirt underneath the sweater. You can pair it with either solid or pattern - for a more subdued look, go with solid, but if you want to add more fun to it, go with pattern of your choice (polka dots, stripes, plaid, etc!)

4. Grunge It Up

I always love the dichotomy of two distinct looks (i.e. cotton & sparkles). Take your favorite chunky sweater but grunge it up a bit with bold, black accents (like the grunge skeleton), black gloves, or black bags with fringes. It toughens up the outfit and can give you a complete polar opposite feel from a more "feminine" soft look.

5. Sweater Maxi Combo

Who says maxi dresses are for Summer? Maxi dresses are not only one of the most comfortable, flattering and forgiving pieces to wear, but they are also surprisingly versatile, too! They're so easy to add layers over - I honestly think it's the perfect transitional piece taking us from Summer to Fall! My biggest tip: it's a smart way to extend your Summer wardrobe and get creative with items you already have in your closet! :)

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

photo credit: lulus, loveitsomuch, prepaganda, pinterest, google

Sequins and Khakis

Hi guys, didn't think I'd say this, but this week is going by pretty fast. I am really liking this outfit - as my blog name suggests, I love simple things paired with a bit of sparkle. So for this look, I paired my favorite sequin tee with simple, loose mustard khakis. It's the perfect blend of the minimalistic/simple look with a little dazzle! Not too over-done, but still dressed up just enough. I rolled up the khakis a bit to showcase the ankle strap on the heels (which wass surprisingly comfortable given it's synthetic leather). Completed the look with neutral + gold bracelet accents. Enjoy!

cheers, julie

(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

Outfit

Shirt: Jcrew Sequin Cluster Tee

Pants: Madewell Khakis (similar here)

Bag: Chanel Wallet on Chain

Shoes: Zara Ankle Strap Heels

Jewelry: Vintage Gold Cuff (similar here) + Chan Luu wrap bracelet (similar here)

Sunglasses: Dita Supa Dupa

Classic Black Leather Pumps

Hi guys, I got a few requests last week for an "everyday" classic pump post. I think that having a nice pair of classic black leather pumps is a must for a girl -- an investment that will last you for years, like a classic designer handbag. It definitely is an "investment," so make sure you save up for it, if you're ready for designer pumps to add to your shoe collection. There’s nothing more ladylike than wearing a nice pair of pumps to complete a look. It can complement an outfit ranging from everyday work/office look (making the look complete with a very professional work feel) to evening outfit with dress/skirt/pants to really polish up the look (making it an effortlessly classic look).

You have such a huge selection out there with so many designers that make quality leather pumps -- but these are some of my favorite pieces that will stand the test of time. I will be posting an alternative to designer pumps -- for those of you who are looking for more affordable options but still with a classic black leather look. Stay tuned next week - enjoy! :)

cheers, julie
(aka cotton and sparkles, @cottonnsparkles, follow me on instagram)

1. Christian Louboutin Simple 100 Leather Pumps ($625)
2. Prada Platform Pumps ($750)
3. Fendi Black Leather FF Platform Pumps ($550 - on sale!)
4. Giuseppe Zanotti Classic Platform Pumps ($710)
5. Jimmy Choo Cosmic Platform Pumps ($695)
6. Saint Laurent Tribtoo Textured Pumps ($795)