ENCIRCLE NYC & LIVOTTE LONDON; Circle of Life & A Spot of Tee

  My friend and fellow blogger Melissa Meyers and I were headed to an event one day and she was wearing a long necklace of endless circles. It instantly caught my eye...plus It's always fun to find a new jewelry line, so I said,  "Oh I love that!" Melissa showed me the website then introduced me to Amy Heilberg, the founder of Encircle NYC, now I too have my own Encircle collection. Mother's day is near, so here's a few gift ideas for your mom, yourself, or any occasion. I've also included Livotte, and I think you'll appreciate how founders Beth and Delphine have reinvented the basic tee. Get ready to enjoy modern elegance with Encircle NYC & Livotte. Three entrepreneurial women who are passionate about creating simple and practical beauty for everyday life.

Cover-up Nudz Beachwear

Recently I was in New York and met with the founder Amy Heilberg.  Not only did I love everything she showed me, we connected right away. We chatted about... stuff, how after a certain age life begins to come full circle, and I'm certain to why I was drawn to Melissa's necklace that day. We enjoyed our breakfast & cappuccinos at Le Coucou, and shared how we both constantly find messages in everything!  #soulsister...I'm thrilled to be part of Amy's circle. 

 Amy is the founder of Amy Heilberg Jewels, a private jewelry consulting company that specializes in custom fine and vintage collectible pieces. While working with clients for over sixteen years, Amy decided to create a collection of chic fashion pieces that give off the Amy Heilberg Jewels fine jewelry feel; but at an accessible price point. With that idea in mind, she launched Encircle NYC in January 2016.  

Three Interlocking Paperclip Earrings

Vertical Circle Pendants

The pieces channel the powerful concentric circles of our lives. Our designs are organic and timeless with a fashion-forward edge. 

Vertical Pendant with pave piece

Buster in his Charlie & Me Choker along with our rug...we're a house of circles...signs are everywhere.

Each shape we sell are circles, flowers, ovals and squares; which is a variety of styles just like women. Circles represent protection and wholeness. Flowers, with their infinite variety and beauty. Ovals are symbolic of abundance and the cycle of life. Squares are foundational, structural, and provide support. We all come in different shapes and sizes – and that is reflective in our collection. No matter your personal style, there is a shape that each customer gravitates towards that represents them. What's yours!  You will receive a 10% Discount.

Take a look at Encircle website - You'll find more styles!

Three Large Oval Pendants

In this current time, unity, diversity, understanding, community and love is what we need to survive in this world; and Encircle NYC embodies the connectivity that each represents. 

Keeping it simple and chic with Encircle Verticle Pendant

Ecircle jewelry is designed to make each woman feel her best as she takes on her life. Thank you, Amy! I love being part of your circle xxooo

Welcome to the Lovely Livotte; Beth & Delphine who are fashion veterans, are committed to bringing organic, locally sourced luxe cotton jersey tops to women across the globe. Here's to dressing effortless chic, day or night.

I'm wearing; Jacqueline

I am definitely the woman who feels like I can conquer it all in jeans & a tee, and now more than ever! Livotte has filled a void for the everyday tee, and of course, they're all named after women and the name Livotte comes from their daughters...Livvy & Charlotte, and of course I like them even more!  It's like having a little piece of London close to your heart. Thank you, Beth & Delphine! Hands down my favorite T, and oh so soft and stylish.

Meet Jane

Beth & Delphine live in London; their girls were born there and will most likely grow up in the amazing city. Livotte wants to support the London fashion community and make the extra effort (and by extra effort,  putting it mildly) to deliver a product both designed and made right in London within the M25. 

Meet Natalie

They were able to source a fabric that is both organic and luxurious.  Their mill is in the Midlands and the yarns are the best in Europe making our cotton jersey tops luxurious, long lasting and able to withstand many many machine washes. 

Meet Sophia

Style tip from Livotte; Pair it with your leather leggings or blue jeans or even your favorite pencil skirt. Lifestyle tip from Livotte;  Live In It, Love In It, Lunch In It! 

Don't forget to Laugh in it!

Thank you to; Encircle & Livotte for providing photos and information. Cheers to many years of success and fun! I love working with inspirational & kind women, it makes the journey so rewarding.  #grateful

  “The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.” – Coco Chanel

LET'S PEEK INTO OUR EVERYDAY & GETAWAY LOTIONS & POTIONS

Notes from Janet & Jes...

Do you ever wonder what's in the woman's bag next to you on the plane, train or sitting next to you at your favorite bistro? When I'm traveling, especially abroad...I would love to take a peek into what women "go to" from sun-up to sundown. Here are a few things in mine and Jesica's everyday bag along with our weekend getaway bag.  

Everyday potions and lotions Jes & I can't live without.

Emi-Jay Hair Ties - I usually put my hair up at least once a day. Emi-Jay ties are either on my wrist or in my bag, and they don't damage your hair. They're also great gift ideas, and for any age.  -Purliesse for Flawless Skin -I can't say enough about this BB Cream. Literally, you'll have a flawless finish, it evens out along with protecting your skin. Purlisse makes great non-toxic products - Ilia lip & cheek tint - Because it's just that - a quick touch up for a little brightness.  Lune+Aster Poet Lip Gloss for that perfect pink pout - Lune+Aster glosses are not sticky and they have beautiful shades to choose from- Warby Parker reading glasses, Warby Parker has great frames for $95. and they make the process so easy for you. Order online - they send a box of 5 frames you've picked out, keep them for 5 days and choose your favorite pair(s)... return the box with your for prescription and you'll have them in back 10 days and Warby Parker gives back!  Kiehl's in coriander (love this scent) I've been using Kiehl's for years, this is still my favorite scent. Browza Eyebrow pencil, my eyebrows are very fair, so I always have it on hand,  - Nia Tech Neck roller for your neck...Must have!  In traffic, at home, sitting at my desk, I moisturize my neck all day long.    Jes...Don't forget about your neck! 

Don't leave home without it!

On our recent Spring Break trip, everything I needed fit into these two bags. I try and keep it simple when I travel, only go for what I need. Kát Rudu - Cucumber Eye Gel - I use this every morning. Nuxe - For the perfect golden glow. I'll never tire of this scent. Tata Harper Eye Mask  - Skinn Hydration Serum - Fantastic Facial Serum Great for on the plane! - Skinn Deep Wrinkle Resurfacing Concentrate - I use this day and night. It brightens your skin instantly.  Skinn Eye Cream - Skinn Neck Cream Mask  - My favorite neck cream for day & night -  Purlisse Sheet Mask - White Tea - These are a must! You'll be left with glowing, moisturized skin, and the scent is so calming. You'll want more that one!  Purlisse Cleansing Milk - Travel Size.  Elizabeth W. Eye Mask - Take a look at all you have to choose from. Nilotic Shea Butter - Incredible moisturizer. It works for every part of your body, it's a brand that gives back, and it's for the whole family. Beauty Blender Body Sponge for blending lotions & bronzers. If you're looking for a great Mother's Day Gift Idea or really for any occasion, check out Cuyana, I'm a fan of their elegance & simplicity and they give back. Not only do I love traveling with these beautiful bags but I love the mission behind the brand. 

Great Mother's Day Gift Idea! Monogramed Travel & Everday Bags

Hey there, it's Jes! When it comes to my beauty on-the-go, I keep a pretty close roster of my favorite finds. Below are my can’t live without items that are often my trusty companions for those long days at work or when I need a beauty pick-me up. I tend to be loyal to certain brands, so if it works, chances are that I will use it on repeat until the last drop!

1.       Aesop Hand Crème ($28): This is hands down (pun intended) one of my favorite tubes to carry. Its texture is light, and the rose scent smells divine. It contains a beautiful blend of botanicals that leaves my hands feeling soft and rejuvenated. It restores my cuticles, and helps my nails grow healthy. I am constantly using my hands, whether it’s by endless hours typing on the computer, driving or working out, so my goal is to always have them be healthy and hydrated.

2.       Blistex Lip Medex ($1.79): Rain or shine, my lips are always chapped. Luckily, this drugstore miracle keeps my pout moisturized and refreshed. Sometimes, I only have to apply it once a day, and it stays put. You really can’t beat this deal – as it truly works wonders on my lips!

3.       Tocca Florence Travel Spray ($38): Tocca has been a favorite of mine for years, and Florence is perfect for the warm LA summer days. This floral scent is a combination of bergamot and gardenia that keeps me refreshed all day. Plus, the bottle is adorable and their lotions and candles are also worth a try.

4.       Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water ($9): This is the perfect remedy for those sticky humid days! Avène is one of France’s most popular brands, and it’s a top choice for many makeup artists and dermatologists. This is also perfect after long flights, as it helps skin glow and keeps it hydrated.

5. Tarte BB Tinted Treatment 12-Hour Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen ($36) and Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush ($29): SPF is a must, whether you are 15 or 75! This dual BB cream comes in a variety of shades and applies smoothly without leaving a chunky residue, and it blends evenly. This blush is pretty natural, long-lasting, and also, it doubles as lip gloss. I also love how the color works with my complexion, leaving a dewy and rosy finish with an extra glow. One added bonus -- this is the perfect neck cream, as it's never too early to start protecting against wrinkles.

6. Wet Naturals Evergreen Wood Detangling Brush ($14.99): This brush is light and untangles my hair without leaving it frizzy or sticky. I also keep one in my car, when I am running around and don't have much time to freshen up. Since I began using this brush, I have noticed my hair is healthier and with less breakage. 

7. Super by  Retrosuperfuture Sunglasses ($179): I pretty much wear sunnies from sunrise to sundown (protection is key), and these wayfarers and timeless and pretty much go with anything. I also own their tortoise shell sunglasses, and they are both super chic!

I recently went on a 12-day trip home to Peru to visit family and friends and packed an array of travel-sized products for the adventure. Since I went to two different climates -- coastal and mountain, I knew I needed plenty of hydrating potions. 

Check out my travel companions during hot weather in Lima, mild dry temperatures in the Andes, and extreme humidity in Machu Picchu!

1. Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating treatment ($24) | 2. Caudalie Radiance Moisturizer SPF 20 Complexion Correction for Flawless Skin ($49) 3. Bulgari The Blanc Shampoo & Conditioner Set ($29.99) | 4. La Prairie Eye Cream with SPF 15 ($185) | 5. Pixi by Petra Glow Tonic ($22 for travel set) | 6. Boscia Green Tea Blotting Linens ($10) | 7. Chapstick Total Hydration ($4.99 for set) 

Whether you're in your 30's 40's or 50's It's fun to share  "A few of our favorite things"   Jes & I want to know..."What's in your bag"  

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone...Audrey Hepburn. 
 

RIPLEY RADER - JUMPSUIT QUEEN

When I first met Ripley I instantly lite up! Not only are we both "dancin fools" but we're southern girls and she's incredibly passionate about women feeling their best. My friend Melissa Meyers said, "you've gotta meet Ripley, you'll love her and her brand." She was right. Melissa and I did a Facebook Live segment with Ripley at her studio talking about her brand and the inspiration behind her designs. Meet the Hollywood's mover and shaker...literally, Ripley Rader.

"The jumpsuit is here to stay." So sayeth The Queen!

Meet "The Queen of the Jumpsuit" herself, Los Angeles-based designer Ripley Rader. Rader, an accomplished professional dancer who considers herself an artist first, launched her eponymous ready-to-wear label in 2013. Inspired by Southern California's eternally sun-drenched 1970s chic, her aim was to "encourage women to express their individuality through timeless silhouettes and softly tailored separates," all at an accessible price point. Celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Amy Schumer, and Kate Upton have all rocked her designs... Can you dig it?!

Cue the perfectly classic, totally effortless, infinitely wearable jumpsuit. If you're looking for a versatile piece that will carry you from an important morning meeting to a cocktail hour after a long flight, or a night on the red carpet, clear out some closet space! This is the line for you! The pieces are very flattering and feel incredible. The fabrics Rader uses are SO comfortable and soft, while still being carefully-crafted and luxurious. Seriously, you can wear Ripley Rader anywhere! 

Ripley's two piece top and pant - wear with flats or heels! / Encircle Necklace

The designer attributes her particular form/function sensibilities to a lifetime spent stretching and pirouetting across dance studios.  (ahhh woman after my own heart) "I like 'good-move' clothes," she says. "I live in dance clothes. I always like to feel free and move my body easily and I never want to put a lot of time into getting dressed. I like to walk out the door feeling polished and comfortable the next."

One Piece Jumpsuit  Let's Dance!

And that comfort level carries over to the bottom line, as well. One of my favorite things about Ripley's approach is her reasonable price point. "Our jumpsuits are all under $200 and 100% LA-made. I feel even $200 is an investment for the modern woman, and I wanted to really honor that," she says, "keeping it at that price point and having everything is made in the U.S. does present some challenges, but I can sleep at night." Another reason for Rader's frugality? Her roots in the creative community. "I'm an artist, so I just wanted to be sure my hippie/artist-friends could afford this line," she laughs. 

Not sure if a jumpsuit is your Groove Thang? Fear not! Rader has a few suggestions up her (bell) sleeve. "Tailoring is key," she says. "Pay particular attention to hemlines--you shouldn't have fabric pooling around your feet, nor should your whole shoe be visible. Find the middle ground."  What's better than getting your groove back with your girlfriend's in one of Ripley's Jumpsuits!

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Styling can also make a big impact. "Rock a great shoe, and try incorporating different belts, statement necklaces, or a high-end clutch to carry your look from daytime functionality into evening chic." This line makes incorporating the High/Low trend so easy and fun(ky). "For me, the jumpsuit works on all body types-tall, short, curvy, straight," she says, "with great tailoring and styling, you can really make it your own and make it feel fresh and modern." 

Encircle Choker

This year will also see the line extending its sizing options to include Plus sizes, something that Rader says is of great personal importance to her. "I design my pieces so they can be worn at any age, and at any size. I want people to feel good in their bodies and I want to help them dress their bodies--no matter what shape that might be. I'm not trying to reinvent the look of the modern woman, but it is important to me to have clothes that not only can carry her from day to night but also pieces that are hearty - that will last and look good and feel good.

Ripley's pants paired with Elizabeth & James top / Encircle Chocker

Dying to slip into one of these disco-dusted creations? The full line is available via the Ripley Rader website, and is slowly-but-surely coming to a boutique or shop near you! "We're in about 100 high-end boutiques nationwide," she says, "We were slow to break into the larger market because I wanted to make sure we were a well-oiled machine first. I wanted to be a company that grew organically. Now I feel we're ready, and I'm excited to be able to dress more women."  

Melissa Meyers & I during our Glow & Grateful segment for Facebook Live.

Since Ripley's initial outreach was purposely Boho-boutique, this true Hollywood IT-Girl used a little star power to build her brand. "I don't have a huge publicity team behind me, so I've always gifted pieces to stylists who love them so much, they refer their celebrity clients and word spreads out of a genuine enthusiasm." Organic press? Genuine love?? 

Hats off to my fellow dancing sister, thanks for creating clothing that's "got all the right moves"

Kumbaya and Long Live The Queen!

Check out Ripley's website to book an appointment or shop online. Her studio is so much fun!      

         "I think the best role models for women are people who are fruitfully and     confidently themselves, who bring light into the world." —Meryl Streep

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