paula’s picks | oct 2023
During this month, my focus has been on improving the condition of my skin and hair. I want to share some products that have been assisting me on this journey. I’ve also shared some of my latest fashion finds, how I would style them and my favorite podcast in the world!
what i’m using
RETRO ACNE VITAMIN CAPSULES: I can't express how grateful I am for Opositiv's Retro Acne Relief Vitamin Capsules. After three months of consistent use, my hormonal acne is virtually gone, and my skin has never looked better. These capsules have truly been a game-changer for my confidence and self-esteem. They contain powerful ingredients like Lactoferrin, a vegetarian protein that not only boosts immunity but also prevents all types of common acne, along with Zinc, which plays a crucial role in maintaining normal oil production in the skin and supports a healthy inflammatory response. Additionally, Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, helps protect the skin by neutralizing free radicals.
ORGANIC CASTOR OIL: A few months back, I began noticing significant hair loss during showers and noticed my hair looking thinner when down, along with receding hairlines on the sides when pulled back. Rather than panicking, I decided to take proactive steps to address the issue. Given that I typically wear my hair in a bun daily, I made the switch from hair gel to using castor oil and leave-in conditioner to sleekly style my hair. Not only does this provide a chic look, but castor oil also offers the added benefits of promoting hair growth by moisturizing and strengthening hair follicles, locking in moisture for healthier-looking hair. A little hack I learned from Sophia Richie on TikTok as well is to pull your hair back instead of down when creating your pony tail from the side part. Watch my tutorial on how to recreate this look HERE.
NEOM PERFECT NIGHTS SLEEP BODY BUTTER: I was introduced to Neom last spring by a good friend, and I've been hooked ever since. While I can't wait to share all the expert recommendations I received in our upcoming episode on sleep with Dr. Michelle of the Sleep Sphere, I just had to tell you about one of my personal favorites in the meantime – Neom's Perfect Night's Sleep Magnesium Body Butter. This dreamy body butter helps me create what I like to call my "sleep cocoon." Infused with magnesium, it not only nourishes and softens the skin but also carries Neom's signature sleepy scent which is combination of super floral lavender, fragrant basil, and honey-like sweet jasmine. Neom's Body Butters contain 88mg of magnesium per 5ml of product, and after using it, I can honestly say that I experience a better nights sleep.
WHAT I’M WEARING
LEISURE SUIT FROM COMMENSE OFFICIAL: I love luxury fashion as much as anyone, but I'm also a big fan of a good dupe. Especially when it comes to trendy pieces that I'm not sure I'll wear for more than a season or two.
One of my favorite dupe brands is Commense. I've been really impressed with the quality and fit of their clothes, especially for the price. My latest obsession is their Oversized Leisure Pleat Pockets Two Piece Pants Set. It's a pretty good copy of Issey Miyake Pleats Please line, but for a fraction of the cost.
I recently wore the set out to an event and got stopped left and right. People were shocked to hear that it wasn't Issey Miyake, especially when I told them it was under $100.
If you're looking for a cool and stylish pantsuit, I highly recommend this set.
Here are a few tips for styling the set:
Pair it with sneakers or sandals for a casual look.
Dress it up with heels and a statement necklace for a night out.
Add a blazer or cardigan for a more polished look.
Layer it with a turtleneck or tank top underneath for colder weather.
SCHUTZ MIKKI UP BOOT: Every year, for as long as I can remember, my mother has always gotten me a few pair of boots for my birthday. It's our thing and we still do it to this day! This year, she got me the Mikki Up Boots from Schutz and I'm absolutely in love with them.
I've already worn them a few times, and I can honestly say that they're one of the more comfortable boots I’ve owned. The leather is soft and supple, and the heel is just the right height. I also love that they're so versatile. I can dress them up or down, depending on the occasion.
Here are a few styling tips from me to you:
For a casual look: Pair the Mikki Up Boot with jeans and a t-shirt. Add a denim jacket for a layered look.
For a more dressed-up look: Pair the Mikki Up Boot with a skirt or dress. Add a statement necklace or earrings to dress up the look.
For a transitional look: Pair the Mikki Up Boot with leggings and a sweater. Add a scarf or coat to stay warm.
For a night out on the town: Pair the Mikki Up Boot with a cocktail dress and statement jewelry. Add a clutch purse to complete the look.
DL1961 ASRA MAXI SKIRT: As a big fan of DL1961 denim, I knew I could expect high quality and a flattering fit, but the Asara Maxi Skirt exceeded my expectations and will be my most frequently worn item this year.
The skirt is made from a soft and stretchy denim fabric that is both comfortable and flattering. It sits high on the waist and has a deep front slit, which gives it a sexy and sophisticated edge. I also love the obsidian color, which is perfect for the fall season in New York City.
I've worn the Asara Maxi Skirt with everything from sneakers to heels, and it always looks amazing. It's the perfect piece!
How to style the DL1961 Asara Maxi Skirt:
For a casual look, pair the skirt with sneakers, a t-shirt, and a denim jacket.
For a more dressed-up look, pair the skirt with heels, a blouse, and a statement necklace.
For a transitional look, pair the skirt with boots, a sweater, and a scarf.
WHAT I’M LISTENING TO
FIXING FAMOUS PEOPLE PODCAST: If you're looking for a podcast that will make you laugh your ass off, then you need to check out Fixing Famous People. Hosted by television producers Chris DeRosa and Dominick Pupa, the show takes a hilarious and refreshing look at celebrity culture.
Each week, Chris and Dom choose a celebrity who they believe needs their help, and then they pitch ideas on how to fix their crumbling public image. They don't hold back, and their ideas are often outrageous and hilarious.
But what really makes Fixing Famous People so great is the chemistry between Chris and Dom. They're both incredibly funny and quick-witted, and their banter is a joy to listen to. They also have a great way of making fun of celebrity culture without being mean-spirited (well…sometimes they’re mean and I like it!).
If you're a fan of pop culture and comedy, listen to Fixing Famous People. It's the perfect way to shut the world off and have a good laugh.
Subscribe & Listen to Fixing Famous People HERE.
WHAT I’M READING
OUT OF NOWHERE BY SANDRA BROWN: This one had me on the edge of my seat the entire time! A mass shooting at a county fair brings together Elle Portman, a single mother, and Calder Hudson, a successful businessman, they find themselves in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the killer. As they race against time to uncover the truth, Elle and Calder must also face their own inner demons and learn to trust each other. This is a super suspenseful novel with complex characters and a thrilling plot. The author does a masterful job of building suspense and kept m e guessing at every turn. I highly recommend Out of Nowhere to fans of romantic suspense and thrillers.
