Archive | FASHION AND BEAUTY

Everyday Elegance: Why I’m Loving the Handcrafted Quality of the M. Aviann Geneva Ballet Flats

Finding a pair of ballet flats that are both comfortable and chic is harder than it sounds—especially if you care about quality, craftsmanship, and longevity. But the moment I slipped on a pair from the Geneva Collection by M. Aviann, I knew I had found my new go-to shoes.

These aren’t just your average flats—they’re handcrafted with intention, built from premium materials, and made to last. They offer a timeless design with thoughtful details that make them feel elevated without trying too hard. Whether I’m running errands, traveling, heading to brunch, or slipping them on after a long day in heels, they always deliver on comfort and style.

✨ Handmade Craftsmanship You Can Feel

Each pair in the Geneva Collection is carefully handcrafted, and you can feel the difference the moment you put them on. The quality is obvious: from the buttery-soft materials to the durable soles, these shoes were made with comfort and longevity in mind.

👣 Supportive, cushioned insoles make them a dream for all-day wear
🌱 Sustainably made in small batches to ensure quality and reduce waste
🧵 Thoughtful stitching and attention to detail means they’ll hold up for years
👡 Flexible construction allows the shoes to mold to your feet while maintaining structure

No blisters. No pinching. Just buttery-soft flats that feel like a second skin—and look effortlessly polished with everything from jeans to dresses.

💫 Timeless Style That Goes With Everything

The Geneva flats strike that perfect balance between classic and current. They’re the kind of shoe you can wear season after season without ever feeling out of date.

✔️ Dress them up with a midi dress or trousers for the office
✔️ Pair them with jeans and a sweater for an elevated everyday look
✔️ Pack them for travel—they take up almost no space and go with every outfit
✔️ Keep them in your bag as a stylish, comfy backup to heels

They come in a range of gorgeous neutral tones, so whether you love warm camel, soft blush, or classic black, there’s a pair that’ll fit right into your wardrobe (and your lifestyle).

💼 Built to Last, Not Just Look Good

What really sets the Geneva Collection apart is the quality construction and wearability. These flats aren’t just pretty—they’re designed for real life.

💪 Durable soles that hold up to long walks and daily wear
🧽 Easy-to-clean materials that maintain their look over time
👜 Lightweight enough to toss in your tote or travel bag
🌎 Thoughtfully made to reduce waste and promote slow fashion

In a world of fast fashion, it’s refreshing to find shoes that are made with intention and integrity. These flats were built to last, which means fewer replacements, less waste, and more value over time.

👟 The Flats You’ll Reach for Every Day

I’ve tried a lot of ballet flats over the years, and most fall into one of two categories: cute but uncomfortable, or comfy but frumpy. The Geneva flats by M. Aviann are that rare gem that checks all the boxes.

They’re:
✅ Beautifully handcrafted
✅ Comfortable enough to wear all day
✅ Stylish and versatile
✅ Made to last for seasons (and years) to come

If you’re looking to upgrade your everyday shoes with a pair that’s both elegant and easy, this collection is worth every penny.

👉 Shop the full collection.

The M. Aviann Geneva Collection isn’t just about shoes—it’s about thoughtful fashion. These handcrafted ballet flats are a reminder that when you invest in quality, you’re not just getting something beautiful—you’re getting something that lasts.

So whether you’re stepping into the office, heading out for coffee, or packing light for your next trip, these are the flats you’ll keep reaching for—again and again.

💬 Have a favorite color or style from the collection? Let me know how you’re styling yours!

Nourished by Nature: Stone & Spear Tallow Skincare That Truly Delivers 🧼

Every once in a while, you come across a product so simple, so beautifully made, and so good for your skin, you want to tell everyone you know about it. That’s exactly how I feel about the tallow-based skincare from Stone & Spear. Their products have officially earned a permanent spot in my bathroom, and honestly? My skin (and my senses) couldn’t be happier.

💧 Moisturizing Body Butter = Skin’s Best Friend
Let’s start with the Moisturizing Body Butter. If your skin is dry, sensitive, or just needs a little extra love—this is it. Rich, creamy, and deeply hydrating, it melts into the skin like butter (but better), leaving behind the softest, healthiest glow. I love applying it after a shower while my skin’s still slightly damp, it locks in moisture beautifully without ever feeling greasy. The ingredients are super minimal and clean (just how I like them), and a little goes a long way. It’s the kind of product that makes you want to slow down and take your time with your skincare.

💄 Tallow Lipstick with a Peppermint Kick
Next up: the Natural Tallow Lipstick, and let me just say, I’m obsessed with this one. It smells like fresh peppermint (hello, instant refresh), and it feels nourishing in a way most lip balms just don’t. No synthetic fragrances, no weird aftertaste, just smooth, soothing, pepperminty goodness. It’s the kind of balm you’ll want in every bag, coat pocket, and nightstand drawer.

🧼 The Dreamiest Hand & Body Soap
And finally, let’s talk about the Hand & Body Soap. I’ve used a lot of clean soaps over the years, and this one is a standout. It lathers beautifully, smells delicious, and doesn’t dry out my hands (which, let’s be honest, is rare these days). It’s made with the same care and tallow-based goodness as the rest of their line, and it’s become a daily ritual I actually look forward to.

🌿 Why I Love This Line
There’s something so comforting about products that are made with intention. Stone & Spear’s entire approach is rooted in simplicity, nourishment, and traditional ingredients that our skin truly understands. Tallow might not be trendy, but it’s time-tested, incredibly effective, and one of the most sustainable skincare ingredients around—no synthetics, no plastic packaging overload, no long list of chemicals. Just clean, honest skincare that works.

🛁 Self-Care That Feels Like a Return to Center
If you’re craving skincare that feels like home—simple, natural, and good for both your skin and the planet, Stone & Spear is 100% worth checking out. These are the kinds of products that make you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the ritual of caring for your body. And that, in itself, is a little act of self-love.

Hiking in Style: Why I’m Loving My New Mondetta B-Corp Activewear

Ever since we moved to the mountains full time, I’ve been spending more time out on the trails—breathing in the fresh mountain air, soaking up the sunshine, and reconnecting with nature. Hiking has become one of my favorite ways to reset and recharge. Jayson and I (and Olive!) do a 1.5 hour hike every morning! And recently, I discovered a new activewear combo that I had to share with you: Mondetta High Waist Active Leggings and their Fitted Active Seamless T-Shirts.

Funny story—Jayson had to make a Costco trip to return some greenhouses that weren’t cutting it, and he surprised me by picking up some new hiking clothes (he knows me well 💚), and I couldn’t believe how perfect they turned out to be. Not only are they ridiculously comfortable and flattering, but they’re also certified B Corp, FSC, and meet the Global Recycled Standard. Cue the heart eyes, right?! 😍🌎

Why I’m Obsessed with These Mondetta Leggings

Let’s talk about leggings first—because finding the right pair is no small feat. The Mondetta High Waist Active Leggings check all the boxes for me:
Supportive yet breathable
Sleek high-rise fit that stays in place
Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
Made with recycled materials (yes please!)

Whether I’m on a steep incline, doing a quick yoga flow, or just lounging post-hike on the back deck, these leggings are comfortable, functional, and cute enough to wear beyond the trail. I love the minimal design and smooth seams—no weird bunching or awkward tugging. Just the kind of all-day comfort every hiker dreams of. And I have been wearing them for my regular at-home workout too, and they are perfect!

Seamless, Sustainable, and Seriously Soft T-Shirts

Now, let’s talk about the Mondetta Fitted Active Seamless T-Shirts. I’m kind of picky when it comes to performance tees. I want something that fits well but needs to wick moisture—and this tee delivers.

✨ It’s soft and smooth with a barely-there feel.
✨ The seamless construction means no chafing (thank you!).
✨ It wicks away sweat on hot hikes and dries quickly after.
✨ It layers beautifully under a fleece or my Patagonia nano puff!

I love that I can wear it on the trail and to grab lunch after without feeling like I’m still in workout mode.

Sustainability that Walks the Walk

As someone who’s always looking for ways to live more sustainably, I was so impressed to learn that Mondetta is a Certified B Corporation—which means they meet high standards for social and environmental responsibility.

🌱 FSC-Certified Packaging – Responsibly sourced, recyclable packaging.
🌱 Global Recycled Standard Materials – Their fabrics are made with certified recycled fibers.
🌱 Ethical Manufacturing – Fair labor practices and environmentally conscious production.

I always feel better supporting brands that are working hard to make a real difference—and it’s even better when their clothes perform as well as these do!

The Verdict? I’ll Be Wearing These All Season Long

If you’re looking for sustainable activewear that’s trail-tested and eco-approved, I highly recommend checking out Mondetta’s active line. The high-waist leggings and seamless tees have quickly become my go-to outfit for everything from early morning hikes to weekend errands.

They’re proof that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort, performance, or style to be kind to the planet. 💚And I love that I can wear this outfit for one of my and Jayson’s day trips! We pick a new town on the map, and then do a hike, visit a few shops/antique stores and wrap up with dinner. I don’t have to worry about changing (I just layer a jacket over the top and I’m good to go!)

📍 PS: I’ve been hitting some amazing trails lately—let me know if you want my go-to hiking spots in the Western NC mountains!

Have you tried Mondetta activewear yet? Or do you have a favorite sustainable brand you love for hiking and outdoor adventures? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking to try something new! 🌿💬

The Pajamas So Good I Wear Them to Brunch – Meet Forever French ☕

Confession: I’ve officially crossed over into the world of pajamas I don’t want to take off—and I have Forever French to thank.

Yes, they make the cutest sets for little ones, but let me tell you: their adult pajamas are next-level cozy. I can honestly say—they’re the softest, comfiest, cutest pajamas I’ve ever owned. And they’ve quickly become my go-to for lazy mornings, coffee sipping, and yes… even Sunday brunch with the family (at home of course!)

Buttery Soft, Stretchy, and Seriously Adorable

The moment you slip into a pair, you get it. These pajamas are made from the dreamiest blend of soft fabric with just the right amount of stretch—like your favorite t-shirt and your favorite blanket had a baby.

They’re lightweight but cozy, fitted but never tight, and come in the sweetest neutral tones and patterns. Think: soft blush, earthy florals, dreamy stripes, and soft, elevated basics you actually feel good in.

Bonus points: they wash beautifully (a must for something I wear on repeat).

Cute Enough for Company

Here’s what I love most: these pajamas are the kind of loungewear that looks put together, without trying too hard.

When the family comes over for Sunday brunch, I don’t even bother changing. I’ll throw on a chunky cardigan over my Forever French set, and I’m instantly “dressed”! Haha.

They’re also great for travel, slow mornings at home, RV trips, and pretty much any situation where you want to feel comfortable but pulled together.

Made for Moms, Brunch, and Everything In Between

Forever French really gets it. Their adult pajamas are designed with the same love and softness as their baby and toddler collections (and their pajamas come in matching family sets!)—which means they’re great for sensitive skin, thoughtfully made, and designed to move with you.

Whether you’re chasing kids, hosting brunch, or just trying to squeeze in a little self-care time, these pajamas deliver the kind of ease and comfort that feels like a warm hug.

And honestly? I’ve started giving them as gifts too—because everyone deserves pajamas this good.

Final Thoughts: Pajamas You’ll Actually Live In

We all have that one pair of pajamas we reach for again and again. These are those pajamas. The ones that make mornings feel a little softer, evenings a little calmer, and weekends a little more relaxed.

If you haven’t tried Forever French adult pajamas yet, consider this your sign. They’re cute. They’re comfy. They’re family-brunch approved. And once you put them on, you won’t want to take them off.

💗 Shop them here!

5 Easy Sustainable Beauty Routine Swaps

Your beauty routine should make you feel refreshed and radiant—but many conventional beauty products are filled with toxic ingredients and excessive plastic packaging that harm both our health and the environment. From harmful chemicals in skincare to single-use plastics in cosmetics, the beauty industry creates over 120 billion units of packaging waste every year! It’s time for sustainable beauty!😱♻️

If you’re looking to detox your beauty routine in a way that’s better for your skin AND the planet, this guide will show you how to switch to non-toxic, sustainable beauty products without creating more waste. 🌿✨

💄 1. Read the Ingredients & Ditch Harmful Chemicals

Many beauty products contain questionable ingredients that can be harsh on your skin and harmful to the environment. Look out for these top toxic offenders:

🚨 Ingredients to Avoid:
❌ Parabens (linked to hormone disruption)
❌ Phthalates (often found in fragrances & harmful to reproductive health)
❌ Sulfates (SLS/SLES can strip natural oils & irritate the skin)
❌ Synthetic Fragrances (can contain hidden chemicals)
❌ Plastic Microbeads (pollute oceans & harm marine life)

🌿 Eco-Smart Swap: Instead of conventional products with long lists of unpronounceable chemicals, opt for clean beauty brands with organic, plant-based ingredients that nourish your skin without toxins.

💚 Best Non-Toxic Beauty Brands:
🌱 Ilia Beauty – Clean, high-performance makeup.
🌿 OSEA Malibu – Ocean-inspired, toxin-free skincare.
💧 100% Pure – Natural, fruit-pigmented makeup & skincare.
🧴 Pacifica – Incredible collection of clean beauty products.

♻️ 2. Switch to Refillable, Recyclable & Compostable Packaging

Plastic beauty packaging is one of the biggest waste contributors in the industry, with most items ending up in landfills or oceans. One of the easiest ways to detox your beauty routine is by choosing packaging that’s refillable, recyclable, or compostable.

✔️ Ways to Reduce Beauty Packaging Waste:
💄 Look for brands that offer refillable makeup & skincare.
🛍 Recycle empty containers through in-store take-back programs.
🌎 Buy from companies using glass, aluminum, or compostable materials instead of plastic.

🌿 Eco-Smart Swap: Instead of single-use plastic deodorant tubes, try a refillable, zero-waste option.

💚 Best Sustainable Beauty Packaging Brands:
♻️ Elate Beauty – Bamboo & refillable makeup.
🌱 Meow Meow Tweet – Compostable deodorants & skincare.
🔄 Kjaer Weis – Luxury, refillable beauty products.

🧴 3. Opt for Solid Beauty Products to Cut Plastic

Switching to solid beauty bars is one of the easiest ways to eliminate waste in your beauty routine. Solid products last longer, require less packaging, and are often free from unnecessary preservatives.

✔️ Best Solid Beauty Swaps:
🛁 Shampoo & Conditioner Bars instead of bottled products.
🧼 Facial Cleansing Bars instead of plastic tubes.
🪒 Solid Lotion Bars instead of pump bottles.

🌿 Eco-Smart Swap: Instead of buying liquid shampoo in a plastic bottle, switch to a shampoo bar that lasts twice as long and creates zero waste!

💚 Best Zero-Waste Solid Beauty Brands:
🛁 Ethique – Shampoo, conditioner & body bars.
🧴 Lush – Naked packaging-free skincare & haircare.

🌎 4. Choose Multi-Use Products to Reduce Waste

Instead of buying dozens of beauty products, simplify your routine by choosing multi-purpose items that save space, reduce packaging, and streamline your regimen.

✔️ Best Multi-Use Beauty Products:
💄 Tinted Lip & Cheek Balms – One product, multiple uses!
💧 Face Oils That Double as Moisturizers & Hair Treatments.
🧴 All-in-One Cleansing Oils That Remove Makeup & Cleanse Skin. I adore Pacifica’s Melt for You Moisturizing Cleansing Oil

🌿 Eco-Smart Swap: Instead of buying separate highlighters, blushes, and lip tints, choose an all-in-one balm for a natural, effortless glow!

💚 Best Multi-Use Clean Beauty Brands:
RMS Beauty – Coconut oil-based, multi-use cosmetics.
💖 Cocokind – Simple, multi-purpose skincare solutions.
🌿 Tata Harper – Luxury, all-in-one skincare formulas.

💚 5. Recycle & Dispose of Old Beauty Products Responsibly

Even with the best sustainable swaps, we all have old beauty products that eventually need to be thrown out. Instead of tossing them in the trash, make sure to recycle or properly dispose of them.

✔️ How to Responsibly Dispose of Beauty Products:
♻️ Check your local recycling program for accepted beauty packaging.
🔄 Use beauty take-back programs (like MAC, Kiehl’s, & Lush) to recycle empties.
🚫 Properly dispose of expired products to prevent harmful chemicals from polluting the environment.

🌿 Eco-Smart Swap: Instead of throwing out old mascara wands, donate them to wildlife rescue organizations that use them to clean animals! Wands for Wildlife is a great program to check out!

💚 Best Beauty Recycling Programs:
♻️ TerraCycle Zero-Waste Beauty Program – Send back empties from any brand.
🔄 Credo Beauty Recycling Program – A clean beauty retailer that recycles used products.
💋 MAC’s Back-to-MAC Program – Return empty containers for free products.

🌿 Detox Your Beauty Routine the Green Way!

Switching to a low-waste, non-toxic beauty routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming! By making small, mindful swaps—like choosing refillable packaging, using multi-purpose products, and recycling responsibly—you can create a cleaner, greener beauty routine that’s good for your skin AND the planet.

💬 What’s your favorite sustainable beauty swap? Drop your best zero-waste beauty tips in the comments! 🌎💚