The Everyday Essentials Every Woman Should Have in Her Closet

Getting dressed should not feel like a daily puzzle. Yet, between changing trends, busy schedules, and the temptation to buy something new every time the seasons change, it is easy for a closet to become packed with clothes while still feeling like there is “nothing to wear.”

The solution is not necessarily a bigger wardrobe. It is a more intentional one.

Having a collection of reliable, versatile essentials can make getting dressed easier while giving you plenty of options to create outfits that feel comfortable and put together. Whether you are heading to work, running errands, meeting friends for lunch, or enjoying a weekend at home, a few dependable pieces can form the foundation of countless outfits.

Here are some everyday essentials worth having in your closet.

1. A Comfortable Pair of Pants

Every woman's wardrobe needs at least one pair of pants that she can reach for again and again. The right pair should be comfortable enough for a busy day but polished enough to wear outside the house.

Depending on your personal style, this could be a pair of classic trousers, straight-leg pants, wide-leg pants, or a comfortable pair of jeans. The most important thing is finding a fit that works for your body and your lifestyle.

A versatile neutral color such as black, navy, beige, or denim can make the pants much easier to style with different tops and shoes.

2. Versatile Tops

A closet full of bottoms is not particularly helpful without tops that can work with them. A few well-fitting tops in different styles can dramatically increase the number of outfits you can create.

Consider having a combination of classic T-shirts, a polished blouse, a lightweight sweater, and a simple long-sleeve top. Neutral shades are easy to mix and match, while a few favorite colors or prints can add personality.

Look for pieces that can be dressed up or down. A simple top might work with jeans and sneakers during the day and look completely different when paired with tailored pants and jewelry.

3. A Dress That Makes You Feel Great

Every woman should have at least one dress she genuinely enjoys wearing.

It does not have to be an elaborate formal dress. A simple, flattering style can be much more useful because it can work for everything from brunch to dinner, depending on how you accessorize it.

Add a cardigan and flats for a casual look, or switch to a blazer, statement jewelry, and dressier shoes when you want something more polished.

The best dress in your closet is often the one that makes you feel confident without requiring a lot of effort.

4. A Lightweight Layer

Weather can change quickly, and indoor temperatures are not always predictable. Having an easy layer available can save an otherwise comfortable outfit.

A cardigan, lightweight jacket, blazer, or versatile overshirt can be worn over dresses, T-shirts, blouses, and sweaters.

Choose a color that coordinates with most of your wardrobe. A neutral layer can become one of those pieces you instinctively grab whenever you leave the house.

5. The Right Foundation Pieces

Sometimes the difference between an outfit that feels great and one that feels uncomfortable has nothing to do with the clothing on the outside.

The right undergarments provide an important foundation for the rest of your wardrobe. A bra that fits properly and underwear that stays comfortable throughout the day can help clothing sit more naturally and allow you to focus on what you are doing rather than constantly adjusting your outfit.

It is worth having several everyday options as well as pieces designed for particular outfits. For women looking for different styles and fits, Soma offers bras, panties, sleepwear, and other intimates that can be incorporated into an everyday wardrobe.

Comfort should not be an afterthought. When the foundation of an outfit feels good, everything else becomes easier.

6. A Pair of Jeans You Actually Love

Trends come and go, but a great pair of jeans can remain a wardrobe staple for years.

The key is not finding the jeans that everyone else is wearing. It is finding the pair that fits you comfortably and works with your personal style.

Think about what you will actually wear them with. A pair of jeans should ideally work with several of your favorite tops, sweaters, jackets, and shoes.

If you find a cut and fit that you love, consider it a wardrobe win.

7. Comfortable Everyday Shoes

A closet does not need dozens of pairs of shoes. A few dependable options can cover most everyday situations.

A comfortable pair of sneakers can handle errands and casual outings, while flats, loafers, ankle boots, or sandals can provide a slightly more polished alternative.

When choosing everyday shoes, think beyond appearance. If you cannot comfortably walk around in them for a few hours, they probably will not become a true everyday essential.

8. A Versatile Jacket or Blazer

A good jacket can completely change the appearance of an outfit.

A blazer can make jeans and a simple top look more polished. A casual jacket can add personality to a basic outfit. A denim jacket can be thrown over a dress or paired with trousers and a T-shirt.

The best choice depends on your lifestyle, but having at least one structured or versatile jacket gives you another easy way to transform simple outfits.

9. A Few Quality Accessories

Accessories are an easy way to make wardrobe staples feel different from one day to the next.

A simple necklace, pair of earrings, scarf, belt, or handbag can add color or personality without requiring an entirely new outfit.

You do not need a huge accessory collection. A few pieces that coordinate with the clothing you already own will probably get much more use than a drawer full of items you rarely wear.

10. Pieces That Make You Feel Like Yourself

Perhaps the most important wardrobe essential cannot be defined by a particular style or brand.

It is clothing that makes you feel like yourself.

For some women, that might mean colorful dresses. For others, it could be perfectly fitting jeans, classic button-downs, comfortable sweaters, or statement accessories.

When shopping for wardrobe essentials, think about the clothes you naturally reach for. Those pieces can tell you more about your personal style than any fashion trend.

For women who prefer classic, versatile styles, Chico's is another place to explore when building a wardrobe with pieces that can be mixed, matched, and worn for different occasions.

Building a Closet That Works for Your Life

A functional wardrobe is not about owning the most clothes. It is about owning clothes that work together and fit the life you actually live.

Before buying something new, consider whether it can be worn with at least a few things you already own. Think about whether you will feel comfortable wearing it for several hours. And most importantly, ask yourself whether you genuinely like it.

The goal is to open your closet and see possibilities instead of clutter. Start with a few dependable essentials, add pieces that reflect your personality, and gradually build from there. When your wardrobe is made up of clothes that fit well, feel comfortable, and work for multiple occasions, getting dressed can become one less thing to worry about, and a little more enjoyable.

Elite Serum Rx Review and #Giveaway.

Elite Serum is an internally developed, anti-aging topical cosmeceutical. It is a scientifically designed eye serum, which is formulated using an exclusive combination of unique DNA precursor pool peptides.

The latest version of Elite Serum released in September 2013 is the Elite Serum Rx.

Elite Serum Rx (Extra Strength) is intended to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, and the appearance of crow’s feet and fine lines around the eyes. With continued use as directed, Elite Serum Rx can improve tone, skin elasticity, and firmness, which improves the youthful appearance of users of any age by restoring a more youthful eye contour.

Since 2009, Elite Serum has been a flagship product.  Originally putting SkinPro on the map as one of the fastest growing skin care companies in the world, it continues to be re-formulated with the latest scientific breakthroughs. SkinPro scientists reformulate Elite Serum every 18 months in order to assure its perennial standing as the world’s most powerful eye serum.

Our staff of specially trained cosmetic pharmacists designed Elite Serum using a proprietary anti-aging peptide formula developed by scientist Irwin Grams. The ingredients are exclusively sourced in the United States, France, Germany and Switzerland. Fully trained and licensed technicians at SkinPro’s laboratory facility in Florida manufacture this product in a GMP and ISO 9002 certified environment.

• Argireline®, the brand name for Acetyl Hexapeptide-3, is considered the best needle-free alternative to Botox. Around the eyes and on the forehead, in a 2002 study by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, it was shown to reduce wrinkle depth by up to 30 percent after 30 days of treatment.
• Matrixyl 3000™ contains the matrikines, Pal-GHK and Pal-GQPR. These matrikines are vital to cutaneous restructuration and repair. They activate the neosynthesis of extracellular matrix macromecules, thus providing Matrixyl™3000 with a visible anti-wrinkle efficacy. They are capable of regulating cellular activity by interacting with specific receptors to trigger the stimulation of certain genes involved in the process of cell proliferation and extracellular matrix renewal.
• Syn®-Coll is an aqueous based peptide considered ideal for activating Tissue Growth Factor (TGF), which is the key element in the synthesis of collagen, a crucial component of the extra cellular matrix (ECM) of the skin. Degenerative changes in the skin take place without this crucial piece of the cellular puzzle. Syn-Coll compensates for collagen deficits and makes the skin look more youthful.
• SNAP-8 is an octapeptide that is an elongation of the peptide Argireline®. It is well known that the molecular mechanism involved in facial aging is due to the changes in the collagen triple helix, as well as degradation of elastin peptides and the packing of the lipidic matrix of the skin. By modulating muscle contraction, the changes in the conformation of collagen and disturbance of the lipid matrix can be significantly impacted.
• Haloxyl® is also known as Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. This peptide reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. By encouraging proper circulation in the eye area, Haloxyl® reverses the buildup of fluids that naturally occur at night. A common cause of puffiness and dark circles, eyelid swelling is occurs, when you lie down because gravity causes fluid to accumulate in your lower eyelids. Haloxyl® counteracts this effect by increasing lymphatic drainage by up to 85% in clinical studies. In addition, Haloxyl® breaks down and flushes out the eye area, removing the toxin-formed pigmented blood that causes dark circles to form.
• Eyeliss™ is a proprietary combination of three active peptide molecules designed to rapidly, and effectively, reduce puffiness and bag volume under the eyes. This bio-molecular engineered solution was discovered as a result of sensory perception screening tests, which were specifically designed to treat puffiness under the eyes. Eyeliss is composed of three important ingredients:

1. Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone decreases the capillary permeability in the lower eyelid. This molecule primes the delicate skin of this area for lymphatic drainage and toning.
2.  Dipeptide Valyl-Tryptophane is a peptide, which increases lymphatic circulation leading to drainage. This peptide is responsible for safely draining the fluid out of the puffy eye bags.
    
3. Lipopeptide Pal-GQPR improves skin firmness and elasticity, which helps to remove fine lines and wrinkles on the sensitive lower eyelid skin. In addition to aiding firmness and elasticity, this peptide decreases the inflammation commonly caused by other lymphatic drainage agents.

• Red & Green Seaweed Extracts target glycation. Glycation takes place when natural sugar molecules bond to a protein or lipid molecule without the controlling action of an enzyme. This process impairs the function of biomolecules and weakens the skin structure at the cellular level. The result is a less firm surface and an increase in wrinkling. These natural seaweed extracts target this process and preserve the skin’s natural collagen. Studies have also shown that natural seaweed extracts inhibit two enzymes linked to the breakdown of the proteins elastin and collagen, and inhibit a range of viruses from entering the cells; making is an ideal ingredient for a therapeutic facial cleanser.
• Hyaluronic Acid is important for maintaining hydration substances in human skin. Natural Hyaluronan concentrations in the skin decrease over time. As a result, the skin’s ability to maintain moisture is weakened and has a rough and dry appearance. Hyaluronic Acid penetrates the dermis, where it combines with water and increases microcirculation and nutrient absorption. Rapid skin rejuvenation results and wrinkles, crow’s feet, and other cosmetic signs of aging around the eyes diminished. These signs of aging can be caused by sun damage, smoking, stress, and other common factors. Hyaluronic Acid is also commonly known by its brand name, Restylane®.

NEW in Elite Serum Rx (Extra Strength)

• Syn®-TC from Pentapharm was recently added to the newly formulated Elite Serum Rx (Extra Strength). This synthetic peptide-based complex is tailor-made to ensure best performance for high-perfoming, anti-aging eye serum formulas. It significantly increases the formation of Collagen I, III, IV, VII and XVII to facilitate their unique contribution to beautiful, smooth skin. In a comprehensive study consumers confirmed the experienced a new dimension of skin smoothing around the delicate eye areas. In only 28 days at usage level of 2.5%, the skin around the eyes becomes smoother with a softer touch and an improved overall young-looking appearance.
• Inyline™ was created by Lipotec to target muscle contraction around the eyes by blocking the agrin binding site in MuSK and its mechanism of action. This in turn causes modulation of muscle contraction leading which leads to muscle relaxation. From a cosmetic point of view, in the treatment of expression wrinkles, this action is critical in the contraction process and therefore the blockage of it results in muscle relaxation, with the skin surface appearing smoother and line depth decreasing.

My Thoughts:

Elite Serum Rx is unlike any serum I've seen on the market. It has a wide array of peptides, and researchers at SkinPro have done their work to ensure each ingredient has shown an improvement on skin. When my sample arrived, the packaging was unique. The box was well made and sturdy, and there was information to explain how the product works on notecards. The design of the product itself was just as unique. It was made into a syringe! To dispense, you undo the cap, twist the security lock off, and administer one pump. The syringe design was created to ensure that every pump gives you enough serum to fit one application. Once dispensed, you lightly dab and massage the serum under your eyes and on the eyelids if you prefer. Since I get puffy circles just below my under eyes, I massaged the product into my skin there as well. One tube of Elite Serum Rx is enough for 45-60 days. Its recommended use is twice per day, preferably in the morning and at night.     

I have to say that upon application on my first day using the serum, I noticed a difference. My dark circles were lighter and my puffiness decreased within a few minutes. I found the texture of the product to be a bit sticky after it dried. After letting it sit for a couple minutes, it went away once it soaked in. I didn't notice any sort of dry or oily texture. My eyes looked brighter, more awake and soft.

I have only used the Elite Serum Rx for a short time, so I can't say I have seen a drastic change, but the fine lines that I had under my eyes have started to appear even smaller. I also always see a difference upon application to my dark circles, any redness if I’m tired, and puffiness. The instruction cards given stated that for maximum benefits, it could take up to six months of regular application. For only using the product a short time, I can honestly say I have enjoyed the benefits I have experienced and I plan to continue my regime with it. I actually still have quite a lot of product left. The fact that I have experienced no adverse reactions considering my under eye area is very sensitive has made me thrilled. I'm prone to redness, drying and stinging, and have had none of those reactions while using Elite Serum Rx.

 I'm very pleased overall and would recommend this to anyone searching for an eye serum.  

Connect with Elite Serum:

Website  Twitter Youtube Google+

The Giveaway 

One lucky winner is going to receive a Elite Serum RX to try for themselves. To enter just fill out the giveaway tools form below. Open to the US only. Giveaway will end  6/27/16. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Thanks again to Nature's Path for offering this fantastic prize!

Entry-Form

Kick off 2016 with CVS/Pharmacy @CVSBeautyClub

CVS/pharmacy has some exciting news! Their CVS Beauty Club is bringing you all the tools you need to keep your skin and hair looking their best all winter long! Each of these products are expertly crafted to deliver the ultimate in quality and convenience, and all of them can be found  at CVS/pharmacy.  When it comes to personal grooming, they have all your winter needs covered.

 I was super excited to be among the first to check out some of the fabulous new products, many of which are CVS exclusives.  There were tons of awesome items to test, and my teen daughter and I had a great time testing them out.

My daughter just loved these Burt Bees lipsticks. The vibrant colors were right up her alley. The cases are really cute too. I love how they look like beehives. Burt Bees is a great all-natural brand and I'm excited to see them coming out with new cosmetics. 

The Method Foaming Body wash is an awesome way to start the day. It foams up and creates lavish bubbles that leave your skin silky soft. Plus, they come in exhilarating scents like cucumber mint and ruby orange. 

Guess perfume comes in fabulous scents and lovely glass bottles. Great for teen girls and adults alike!

CeraVe is one of my favorite brands already, so I'm thrilled that CVS is carrying so many of their products. Their healing ointment is great for eczema and their makeup remover is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.

Nip & Fab is a new brand to me, but it's definitely on my radar now. From skin softening moisturizer to luxurious masks, they have everything you need to keep your skin healthy this winter,

Revlon makes it easy to give your winter makeup bag a refresh with their ultimate all-in-one mascara and matte lip-color.

Garnier's Micellar Water removes makeup without the need to rinse which is great when you're on the go. The brightening moisturizer not only levels out your skin tone, but also includes SPF15. 

Skin & Pharmacy is CVS's very own brand and their products are top-notch. Their anti-aging cleanser and restoring retinol wipes are sure to keep wrinkles at bay.

Eye shadow, blush, power, and more can be applied with the lovely MAU Professionals brushes. Their bristles are soft against your skin and make you get an even coat of any type of makeup. 

This was my favorite item from this package. I hate having to dye my hair to cover just a few pesky grays. This root concealer allows me to cover them up without a trip to the salon.

These are only a few examples of the new product available at CVS. To see all they have to offer, head to your local CVS/pharmacy or visit them online at CVS.com,  Facebook.com/CVSBeautyClub and Twitter.com/BeautyClub. Also be sure to check out the infographic above for some fun lipstick facts!

Review: Anti-aging face masks by Enrich Biotech Global Limited

I'm always looking for more natural products to help my skin, so I was interested in trying these anti-aging face masks. I have to admit, they look a little creepy, but I really enjoyed them. I've used three out of the five masks so far, and I did see an improvement.

The material the mask is made of is smooth and comfortable, and was a nice chance from the cream masks I'm used to. Those tend to harden and leave my face feeling uncomfortably tight until I am able to wash it off. The thing I enjoyed most was the cooling sensation it gives. I put it on and just lay back for the 15-20 minutes you're supposed to wear it and enjoyed the feeling. It left my skin feeling refreshed and it even energized me a bit.

Here's some before and after.... 

The before...

And the after...

The masks are available on amazon, where they talk a little more about the ingredients.

Beauty 360 Face Masks! #Beauty360atCVS

 Whether you're getting ready for your next big date or preparing for a girl's night at home, you can pamper your skin with the new Beauty 360 face masks. They feature nourishing ingredients, vitamins, and antioxidants that improve complexion, hydrate skin, and provide anti-aging benefits. There are several different masks to choose from including:

Anti-Wrinkle Smoothing Tissue Facial Mask
Detoxifying Antioxidant Tissue Facial Mask
Anti-Wrinkle Plumbing Tissue Facial Mask
Hydrating Purifying Tissue Facial Mask

So go ahead! Put your hair back, get your mask on, and show off your radiant skin!  And these are only a few examples of the new products in the Beauty 360 Line. To see them all, head to your local CVS/pharmacy or visit them online at  CVS.com, Facebook.com/CVSBeautyClub and Twitter.com/BeautyClub.

New Beauty Products Exclusively at CVS! #CVSBeautyClub

CVS/pharmacy has some exciting news! Their CVS Beauty Club is bringing you all the tools you need to keep your skin and hair looking their best! Each of these products are expertly crafted to deliver the ultimate in quality and convenience, and all of them can be found exclusively at CVS/pharmacy.  When it comes to personal grooming, they have all your needs covered.
I was super excited to be among the first to check out some of the fabulous new products.

 My teen daughter and I had a blast testing out all these fun beauty product. Here's a little about each one.

Beauty 360 Extreme Curl Eyelash Curler

If you've always dreamed of long, thick, curly lashes, this can help give them to you. Its simple to use, doesn't pull on your eyes, and works like a charm.

WilmaSchumann Soothing Serum

This serum is great to combat redness. The area around my nose gets irritated easily but with this serum I saw an improvement in just one day.

WilmaSchumann Hydra Gel Professional Treatment Masques

These was our favorite product in this batch. The box comes with four different masks, each for different purposes including nourishing, hydrating, antioxidant, and soothing. They feel so good against your skin and are quick and easy to apply and clean up.

  

MUA Professional Retractable  BB/CC Cream Brush 

This brush gives you even coverage with your powder or blush, and the bristles are super soft against your skin.

Jouviance Cleansing Milk

This cleansing milk leaves your skin feeling super soft and deep down clean. It's very gentle and perfect for sensitive skin.

Beauty 360 Portable Manicure Kit

This manicure kit can give you a professional manicure right in your own home. There are five different tools that help you buff and shape your nails to perfection. 

Essence of Beauty Luscious Peony Body Mist

This refreshing spritz has a light scent that keeps you smelling sweet, but isn't overpowering. It also has a matching body lotion.

Nuance Primer Spray  

This primer is made with acai oil and helps get your hair smooth and prepped for styling.

Jouviance 3-in-1 Anti-Age Cream

Keep wrinkles at bay and skin soft and subtle with this silky formula. Plus, it helps boost collagen.

Nuance Nourishing Shampoo 

This shampoo smells amazing and leave your hair soft and shiny.

These are only a few examples of the new product available at CVS. To see all they have to offer, head to your local CVS/pharmacy or visit them online at  CVS.com, Facebook.com/CVSBeautyClub and Twitter.com/BeautyClub. Also be sure to check out the infographic above for some fun lipstick facts!