PFM Confessional: One Year Later...

It's been a full year since we starting blogging on a (nearly) daily basis, and although I was tempted to do the rather cliche collage of random outfit photos it became clear to me that I wouldn't be doing ourselves or our MavenFresh readers any justice. Sesheta and I have come to realize that it's more than that. We've created a year's worth of heartfelt content- the direct result of two gals that enjoy sharing their inspiration with you. Hugs go out to all that support us with your loyalty, thoughts, and comments. You are confirmation that our celebration of a happier, healthier, creative life is being well-received...keep spreading the word! 

Slowly things have changed over this year- we started posting about personal style, fresh recipes, healthy living, inspirations 'n obsessions, and of course accessorizing. Eventually came the reader-driven DIYs and Ask the PFMs (you can email us with questions anytime- we love to help!) As we grow and we learn, things eventually come into balance...and a few blog changes are definitely somewhere out on the horizon. Lately, the universe has been telling me that the future is full of exciting possibilities...if you listen I'm sure you will hear it too. Ooh this quote is totally vision board worthy! And now, let's toast and take a peek at some special outtakes. Hope you share in our (obvious) delight and have a wonderful Labor Day weekend...woo-hoo!

Thanks for sharing in our joy and laughter through this year!!! CHEERS! 

xoxo Becca & Sesheta

*images via Pinterest and PicMonkey

A Day in the Life: An End of Summer Hurrah

though i have had quite a few good times this summer, i have still felt like the season has flown by and that i haven't made the most of it.  i had hoped for more relaxation, more beach days, less work and more time with friends.  ...but, alas, we are at the end of August and (those of us with kiddies) school starts next week.  as the summer comes to an end, it is hard not to lament over how it could have been spent.  thankfully, there is still the possibility of a few more warm weekends.  i am definitely looking forward to this weekend.  i have taken a few days off from work to actually do what makes me happy (i hardly ever do that!!).  i have one more chance to fit in all of the things that will signify (to me) time well spent.  

i hope that you have an end of summer hurrah planned as well - bbqs, beach days and any thing you find fun and relaxing.  as for next week, it's back to the usual grind.  ...but that is a whole 5 days away! :) xo Sesheta

PFMs Healthy Living: So I Married a Meat-Eater

Here's the reoccurring scenario: my husband and I are at an engagement party, a baptism, an end-of-summer BBQ...and an acquaintance leans in to me with a hushed whisper and asks with fear in her voice "So, do you always have to make two separate meals?"

It's a burning question that seems to be on many people's minds. Why? Must be because I'm a life-long vegetarian who recently started living a gluten-free and vegan lifestyle, and somehow my (gasp) meat-eating man and I manage to exist together! When my hubby Nick had announced our pending engagement to his parents, his father asked "How is this going to work?" Nick was confused, thinking he was referring to our different religions (a total non-issue) but his wise-guy response was "I meant because she's a vegetarian!"

All kidding aside, I completely understand how it sounds like an impossible feat. We've been married 3 years and never had one single argument over our choice of food. We are both self-proclaimed foodies who share a passion for travel, wine country, and Italian restaurants in NYC. We actually enjoy grocery shopping together and get inspired to come up with new dishes...Nick's Tofu Tacos are the s*it! We've been together 8 years and we never run out of things to talk about. He keeps me worrying less, laughing more, and always inspired. But it's true- he eats meat and I do not...and yet we still fell in love.

I do realize that I'm luckier than most non-meat eaters. From the time that we moved in together, we found a way to happily coexist with our individual eating habits; things just fell into place naturally without any formal discussion or planning. It's like I'm married to an "at-home-vegetarian." Seriously, the only time that you would ever find meat at our place would be during the summer. That's because burger nights on the BBQ are so easy-peasy...veggie burger for me, hamburger for him. The rest of the year, we happily share the same delicious,  meat-free meals and then share our opinions on them afterwards...isn't that the best part? Making two separate meals was never even a thought; what I really love about our relationship is that we both like to cook, and ironically some weeks Nick is making more dinners than I am! 

We found favorite restaurants that satisfy both of our cravings...going out for Japanese is a treat for the two of us. As for vegan restaurants- Champs' Sweet & Smokey black bean burgers pretty much rocked his world. Don't get me wrong, when we do eat out it's almost guaranteed that Nick will be ordering duck or pork if available, but how can I judge his individual eating habits when he clearly does not judge mine? He's a fairly healthy omnivore- not really into fast-food, sugars, or refined carbs. Then I immersed him in a world of plant-based foods that he fell for: green smoothies, tofu cutlets, salads with hemp seed, homemade granola from my mom, quinoa with chickpeas...and all this yummy goodness has slowly crowded out the desire for meat. As a bonus, my hubby's come to find out that there's definitely an improvement in energy levels and digestion with a diet high in veggies!

 "Mixed-food relationships" can work without either of you sacrificing your values or your choices. Here are some tips I've learned along the way...put 'em into practice with your significant other:

Don't judge or lecture. It might be tempting, but you won't get anywhere by listing the ill-effects of a diet high in meat, milk, sugar, processed foods, etc. Be supportive of each other and the different places that you're in. I had to understand that for him it was a process and doesn't happen overnight. That concept was almost foreign to me, being that I was born into this lifestyle and never felt like I was deprived or missing out on something. Amazingly enough, not ever did Nick judge my diet (or the fact that I've never even had a hot dog!) 

I never once asked my husband to give up meat. You can ask to be open with him/her about the benefits that you find with your way of eating, but don't ever go on the attack, especially when other people are around. For example, family members might not necessarily understand or agree with your views and values and want to chime in on what should be a private convo with you and your sweetheart.

 Add foods in rather than taking foods out. So this may mean brushing up on your cooking skills and whipping up some irresistible vegetarian or vegan fare. Knock their socks off and they will never think meatless dishes are boring again! Eventually with all those tasty veggies and filling whole grains, the cravings for meat will lessen. Who knows, you might just end up with a master vegan chef on your hands if you're lucky! I'm slowly manifesting that... ha ha. xoxo Becca

*photo by Henry Chan

PFMs on the Town: AfroPunk Fest 2012

i had a great time this past weekend enjoying the beautiful weather and beautiful people all out celebrating this year's AfroPunk Festival 8/25-26 in Brooklyn.  i actually made it out to both days.  i love people watching and this was the event for it.  everyone was out showing off their afropunk styling; from clothing and accessories to hair styles, i saw it all!

the first day, i had a wonderful time catching up and hanging with an old friend plus running into many others. i specifically wanted to see Alice Smith perform but i didn't make it out in time.  i did make it out in time to check out the vendors.  i saw my fellow jewelry designer and college buddy, Melody of Melody's Addiction repping her wares.  i also saw a few other designers that i plan to check out (grabbed their cards for website shopping).  i couldn't resist taking home a necklace by Kelly Horrigan Handmade because it called my name when i saw it.  i hung around to see Ms. Erykah Badu perform but was really disappointed by the sound - so much so that i ended the night early.

i headed back out on Sunday, this time with the whole family to meet up with some of my besties and their children.  we were prepared with sheets and snacks and tp (for the port-a-potties, ewww lol).  the kids played ball and ran around while we enjoyed the music.  i really enjoyed Reggie Watts performance.  it was my first time experiencing his sound.  my girl and i ventured away from our perfect spot to see Janelle Monae but the sea of people made it hard to enjoy her set.  we quickly headed back before TV On The Radio went on because i was really excited to see their performance.  luckily, they figured out what the sound issue was that ruined Erykah's set.  TV On The Radio was everything i hoped for- great sound, great vibe and a great end to a great day.  i can't wait for next year when we can do it all over again! xo Sesheta

PFMs in the Kitchen: Buckwheat Tabbouleh Wraps

With Labor Day around the corner, I'm taking full advantage of all those fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers that are still overflowing in my garden. Buckwheat Tabbouleh might be my favorite light dinner/bring-to-work-for-lunch-the-next-day. Perfect for summertime, this dish is both gluten-free and vegan...and it's a breeze to make, so I hope you try it! Eaten on it's own, or combined in a wrap with a generous amount of guacamole- ridiculously good. So good in fact, that we ate it too quickly and forgot to take pics of the whole shebang...but trust me there was originally a tortilla and guacamole involved. This classic Middle Eastern salad is best served at room temperature. Serves 4-6. 

For the Tabbouleh you need:

1 cup organic Buckwheat

2 tbsp chopped fresh mint

2 tbsp chopped fresh flat leaf parsley (I used oregano, but wasn't loving the flavor)

2 shallots, chopped fine

1 cucumber, diced

1-2 tomatoes, diced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

juice of 1 large lemon

sea salt and ground pepper

4 gluten-free brown rice tortillas, to serve (I like Trader Joe's)

For the Guacamole you need:

1 ripe avocado

1/2 fresh Serrano pepper, seeded and sliced

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 garlic clove, crushed

1 tomato, finely diced

How to:

Cook the Buckwheat according to package instructions. Transfer into a large heatproof bowl when done. Add the mint, parsley, shallots, cucumber, and tomatoes and mix thoroughly. Blend the olive oil and lemon juice together, then pour over the tabbouleh. Season and toss to mix. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

To make the guacamole, just scoop out the avocado into a bowl. Add the lemon juice, pepper, and garlic. Season to taste and mash with a fork to get a chunky consistency. Stir in the tomato.

Warm the tortillas in a dry frying pan, and serve either flat, folded, or rolled up with the tabbouleh and guacamole. When I'm bringing these with me to work for lunch, I just keep everything separate (wraps, guac, salad) until I'm ready to eat. The tabbouleh tastes even better the next day! xoxo Becca

Daily Outfit: Neon Animal

there is nothing better than fridays except maybe a friday off from work!! despite my desire to get up and out to do things on my day off, all i want to do is nothing! so far, mission accomplished lol. but i thought i would share this perfect friday outfit - ready for the office but playful enough to transition to a night on the town.  accented with a MF pearl cluster necklace and the outfit is complete.  

hope you have a great friday whatever you are doing, on the job, at the beach or on the couch like me! xo sesheta

(Pearl Pendant Necklace - MavenFresh, Neon Pink Tunic and Leopard print leggings - H&M, Color Block Blazer - Rachel Rachel Roy, Belt -  J. Crew)

PFM Obsession: Jemima Kirke

I followed the entire first season of HBO's Girls and was struck by Jessa's sharp wit and free-spirited attitude...but as each episode flew by I found myself completely swooning over her vintage-chic wardrobe. I love finding out that in real-life, Jemima Kirke's personal style inspired her bohemian character's look. 

 Her signature style revolves around mermaid hairdos, drapey kimonos, floral prints, felt hats, bold peep-toes, and matte lips...with a bit of velvet, feathers, and leather mixed in. I did a little research and was thrilled to realize that Jessa's outfits are actually a combination of vintage pieces and Jemima's own wardrobe. This girl blends effortless, eclectic, and feminine into one charming package...and her lovely British accent is perfection. It can't hurt that Jemima's mom owns a vintage store in NYC called Geminola...ooh I feel a major shopping trip coming up! 

Costume designer Jenn Rogien and creator Lena Dunham take the outfit reins for all four girls on the show and I admire that they stay true to the situation surrounding each character. I'm really looking forward next season to see more of Jessa's inspiring looks. You might have heard the rumor that this series is dubbed the new Sex & the City...but the fashion is definitely much more attainable. We are talking Zara, H&M, J.Crew, Anthro, and the Brooklyn Flea...not Manolo Blahnik, Dior, Lanvin, and Ralph Lauren. 

Check out Jemima's website...in addition to being an actor, a mother (and my latest style icon!) she is also an artist who creates beautiful paintings. If you are obsessing along with me, here are some pieces to get you started on re-creating her look for the fall season. xoxo Becca

1. Glistened Fedora, 2. H&M Biker Jacket, 3. Zippered Feather Earrings, 4. The Edge of Girly Top, 5. Ilia Beauty Lipstick in Wild Child, 6. As a Matter of Flat in Leopard, 7. Devaki Maxi Dress, 8. H&M Patterned Pants, 9. Scandi Top Knot, 10. Ombre Aztec Playsuit, 11. Floral Print Kimono, 12. Moonlight Lagoon Open Toe Heels

PFM Styling - DIY Twisted Locs

i have been feeling bored with my hair recently.  i felt like i was wearing it in the same styles over and over again.  some styles are tried and true, but i was looking for some excitement.  after reading the September 2012 Essence (the one with Jada Pinkett-Smith on the cover) article about "7 Days of Hot Styles for Relaxed or Natural Hair", i was inspired to try this two-strand twisted style for my natural hair.  it was simple and only required time and patience.  you can try this too!  here's what you'll need: 

1. a rat tail comb for parting  
2. your hair moisturizer of choice - i love the smell of this one from Shea Moisture.  the ingredients are mostly things that i recognize - an added plus- and the scent reminds me of the beach!
3. rod rollers like these from Ricky's. remember that the smaller the roller diameter, the tighter the curls.
4. you'll also need some hair clips to secure your hair out of the way as you are working.

now for what i did:

first, i washed and conditioned my hair.  after towel drying to keep it from dripping, i then, used the rat tail comb to section a portion of my hair.  i made smaller sections as went along, about 1/2" wide by 1/2" high (think boxes).  after moisturizing the smaller section, i twisted it.  when i had 4-5 twists, i wrapped them around a roller while they were still damp.  repeat until your whole head is complete.  it took me about 2 hours and remember about 1/3 of my head is shaved.  i let my hair dry on the rollers over night and you can see the results above!  love it!  to keep them curly, at night, i put them back on the rollers; so much for looking sexy lol but it sure pays off the next day! xo sesheta

Daily Outfit: Summer of Savers

At the beginning of the season, Sesheta hustled over to a favorite local thrift store...Savers! While searching the racks for some fabulous wardrobe staples, she found a pair of palazzo pants that clearly had my name all over them. What more could you ask for from a friend?
I've literally worn them countless times since; these pants are super comfortable with a versatile pattern that lets me mix and match to create many different outfit combinations. Today's look...neutral with pops of pink.

It's the summer of Savers!  xoxo Becca

(Pearl Pendant Necklace- MavenFresh, Lauren Conrad Pants- Savers similar, Tank similar & Jacket similar- Anthropologie, Lips- Ilia Beauty in Neon Angel, Sam Edelman Sandals- Bloomingdale's, La Mer Neon Watch-similar )

Mani Pedi - Color Club Lava Lamp

i don't think i've had a pedi pic all summer!  i definitely haven't been hiding my toes but the right opportunity hadn't presented itself.  i am trying to get my last hurrah in before the summer comes to an end and it's time to cover the toes again.  what better way to celebrate the warmth than with a neon orange!  Color Club's Lava Lamp is just what the doctor ordered - especially since the weather in NY has been on the cooler side.  while i don't mind the break from humidity, i did miss beach-worthy weather this weekend.  there aren't that many beach weekends left so i hope that the sun gets some inspiration from my nails and brings back some heat! (i hope i don't regret saying that!!). xo sesheta

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #1- Fragrance

Since hopping on the green beauty bandwagon, it's been an impulsive couple of weeks full of  sampling, researching, and purchasing a variety of different healthy beauty products. But when it comes to choosing your signature scent, it can be a very personal thing; many ladies (and gents) don't like to stray from what they know and love. 

I've come to realize love is a coconut. Drumroll please...the all-natural organic french perfume brand Honore des Pres has made it to our #1 spot on the Fresh Five Beauty Countdown with their concoction of coconut, vanilla, and coriander. Love Coconut is an intoxicating light coconut fragrance that's so fresh and so clean (clean!) This special mix of 100% natural and certified organic essences lasts like a long-overdue nap on a tropical beach, where you're sipping an icy cocktail and melting your cares away in the heat. It's vacation in a bottle...and I plan on extending mine by using this perfume all year round. 

I hope this countdown inspired you make some changes in the products you use...there is a healthier side to beauty! xoxo Becca

Spiritual PFM- Dragonfly: Unveiling Illusion

Pic courtesy of Animal Theory

life has been particularly stressful for me recently.  i have been feeling like i'm being pulled in a million directions while keeping a hundred balls in the air.  that being said, i've been known to exaggerate - blame it on my theater background lol.  regardless of the actual details - exaggerated or not, life has been throwing me for a loop.  most times i can attribute things and people being weird to a phase of the moon (look at that - there is new moon coming up).  ...but this all started last week.  i consider myself to be a spiritual person.  not the kind that goes to church every week, but the kind that feels a distinct connection to spirit - my inner spirit as well as to "god" (whatever you may call it).  i also believe that spirit talks to us and tries to guide us in small ways and, if we ignore the small ways, spirit will try again, bigger and in a way that we can't ignore.  though it's hard, i really try to be in tune so that i can be aware of the small, subtle messages; i'm not always successful, but this particular time, i have been looking for any kind of guidance i could get, to help me get through.  ...and after i asked for help, dragonfly appeared.  

i don't know if you believe in animal guides, but i do.   i believe that they are sent with the messages from spirit to help us.  i also believe that every person has their own particular animal totems but every animal or insect can show up depending on the message spirit wants you to get.  ...so dragonfly appeared to me.  as i was about to step outside my door, i saw a dragonfly was sitting on my step.  i didn't open my door because i didn't want to step on it and i also didn't want it to fly inside.  i watched it sitting there and waiting for it to move but it didn't.  i had to open my door and make a noise to startle it away but i couldn't ignore that i was being sent a message.  

the main symbolism of dragonfly is illusion.  they can symbolize that things are not always as they seem and that life itself is not always what it appears to be.  dragonflies are also associated with lots of movement as they flit about as well as the ability to hover while in flight- all due to constant movement.  i have been feeling like, while time is flying by, i have been stagnant in many different areas or at least that is how it has seemed.  i've also felt like i  have been handling a lot on my own with no one to help but i know that is also an illusion.  other  qualities associated with dragonfly are skill, relentlessness, refinement, and creativity.  in addition to reminding me that things aren't always as they seem, i feel that dragonfly was reminding me that i need to be relentless and find creative ways to force things to change.  just like i had to figure out how i was going to make the dragonfly get out of the way, i will have to find a way to force the obstacles to get out of the way in life.  i already feel like there has been movement in one area, specifically because i found another way to approach it.  i am thankful for dragonfly's message and for being open enough to receive it.

if you would like to learn more about animal guides, besides doing a google search, i suggest checking out the book, Animal Speak: The Spiritual & Magical Powers of Creatures Great & Small by Ted Andrews.  

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #2- Hair

image via Spirit Beauty Lounge

Hi beauties! Bringing you #2 on the Fresh Five countdown today...it's time to show some love for your gorgeous locks! I'm a firm believer that your hair is your cheapest accessory (thank you Beth Jones!) and you have plenty of opportunities to use it to your advantage. So we should take good care of it- right? 

Summertime means I'm either fighting frizz or creating beachy waves (usually both at the same time) and I wanted to find an all-natural hair product that can help. After making the conscious decision to green my beauty routine, I discovered the Yarok line of hair care products online at Spirit Beauty Lounge. Yarok means green in Hebrew, and their mission is to make the greatest positive impact on hair and scalp health with the least negative impact on the natural environment. Don't you just love that? The glowing reviews pushed me to try out Yarok Feed Your Roots Volume Enhancing Mousse on my naturally wavy hair. So glad I did! I'm a huge fan of letting my hair air-dry in the summer, and this product has been a lifesaver. I dispense about 2-3 pumps of this lightweight mousse and then use my fingers to squeeze, scrunch and define. My long hair becomes shiny, bouncy, and not at all crunchy. It gives me loose waves that are soft and full of body...no frizz! I've also used it to amp up the volume after my hair was already dry and styled. This is what I consider "hair care"-  a 100% natural plant-based product that actually nourishes my hair, makes it healthier, and *gasp* makes it look good? More please. xoxo Becca

image via

I leave you with this...feel free to share it someone special!

PFM Confessional: Most Memorable Fashion Moment

my "new" pair of docs

my most memorable fashion moment is when i got my first pair of Doc Martens.  i had a pair of the low steel-toes and i loved them.  getting my Docs was a defining moment for me.  they symbolized so much more than just a new pair of shoes; for me, they symbolized "cool" at one of the best times in my life. 

it was the early '90's and i was in high school in the lower east village.  being a queens girl, it was my first introduction to life in the city.  i was instantly drawn to the village-inspired fashion and the quickest way to be "down" was to get a pair of Docs.  it was the first time i practiced the tried and true method of adding one statement piece to change my whole fashion perspective. oh and it did!  just like that, i looked and felt like i belonged.  ...but i can't think about Docs without thinking about all the time that i spent in the the Village roaming around from 8th street down to W. 4th, walking all over and in between.  i spent hours in the store Unique that used to be on Broadway.  i had countless numbers of Haagen Daz cookies and cream ice cream shakes from 8th street (yes, back when i ate dairy lol).  my girls and i enjoyed people watching (especially watching boys :).  i was young, wild and free.  yes, those were the good ol' days.  looking back, i have to credit this fashion moment as my most memorable and most influential! xo sesheta

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #3- Body

I've been reading many online articles on healthy beauty lately, in an effort to increase my awareness about the potential harm that can and will result from the use of common beauty products that contain lots of chemicals. If you have any doubts, read this and then let's discuss! It definitely had me thinking about the body's biggest organ- your skin. It's so important...and we should treat it that way! An all-natural exfoliating body scrub is the perfect way to refresh and renew your skin.

via MindBodyGreen

SkinnySkinny Organic Clementine and Clove Body Scrub has become my latest addiction. It has a light and slightly citrusy scent that's mixed with a subtle hint of cloves...a total indulgence that's got summer written all over it!  You will find me looking for any excuse to open the jar and just take a whiff. Made with organic ingredients, and vegan and cruelty-free, this stuff is seriously drool-worthy. Plus my skin has never been softer! Enjoy xoxo Becca

PFM Obsession: Copper Love

gotta love the peacock fanfare earrings by MF!

my fave bracelets by my fave designer, Tasha West

i would love to add this to my collection.  this is the ultimate wonder woman cuff!! 

tribal and copper - what more could you ask!

this would make the ultimate statement necklace! right in line with fashion trends!

with the popularity of rose gold metal this season, i have renewed my love of copper.  i really love to wear metallics but if i had to choose, i would choose to wear copper metal jewelry all the time.  the issue is that not a lot of current designers make jewelry in copper.  thank goodness for ebay and etsy!!  not only do i love the color, copper (like all metals) has healing properties for the body.  according to Love Is In The Earth by Melody (every gem/crystal/metal lover's bible), copper:

"can combat lethargy, passivity, restlessness, excitability and non-acceptance of oneself. It stimulates initiative, optimism, diplomacy and independence. It emits a philosophic energy, free of orthodoxy and bias. Copper provides a harmonic connection between the physical and astral bodies and aligns the subtle bodies. It has been used successfully to amplify and transmit thought. It is said to be a bestower of good, bringing benefit to its wearer. It opens an activates the base and sacral chakras, advancing and stabilizing the the energies of intuition, sexuality, desire and vitality. It allows one to recognize the barriers which are in the path of ones development. "  

...so maybe there is more to just loving copper - maybe i need to invoke the properties of copper and that's why i am drawn to it!  either way, i have entered a period where i feel the need to wear more copper.  and i'm having fun along the way! 

TGIF! Have a great weekend! xo sesheta

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #4- Eyes

Hello lovely ladies! After learning about all the ill-effects that these toxic cosmetic ingredients can cause, changes are definitely in order! Next up on the green beauty countdown...#4, eyes. My summer makeup routine is usually very simple (read about my love of a bold lip here) but it isn't complete without a basic black eyeliner. I don't think I'm alone on that! So imagine how excited I was to realize that there's an all-natural beauty essential that's affordable and can be found in most drugstores...yes! Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Eyeliner is free of harmful, synthetic chemicals...it's made with Organic Jojoba Seed oil and Beeswax. Backed by rave reviews from the Green Beauty Team, this healthy beauty product has me ditching my (uber-expensive) Chanel eyeliner for good. 

Physcians Formula Organic Wear Eyeliner & Ilia Beauty Neon Angel Lipstick

There are three shades to choose from- I'm loving Black Night Organics, it's black with the most subtle hint of pine green that accentuates your eye color. I'm a big fan, although one recent steamy summer night had me reapplying the creamy line when the temperature hit 100. Overall this eyeliner is gentle, easy to use, and it's been lasting the entire day. More to come... xoxo Becca

Daily Outfit: Silk Pleats and Flowers

...so, i finally found some (affordable) floral print denim that i liked!! thanks to H&M, i am able to join Becca in this fun trend.  though i was nervous about the cream background, the color combo of teal, pinks and yellows, made them irresistable!!  it also gave me an excuse to rock more neon but softened by my silk pleated blouse that i love (and hardly get to wear).  i'm so excited!! can't wait to wear these over and over again :) xo sesheta

(Peacock Fanfare earrings - MavenFresh, Silk Blouse - Laundry by Shelli Segal, Bandeau - American Apparel, Floral print jeans - H&M, Denim Jacket - Old Navy, Flats - Calvin Klein)

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #5- Lips

Get excited, ladies...it's the latest Fresh Five- Green Beauty Edition! I'm counting down my top five favorite beauty products that are not only going to help you look great, they are actually healthy for you and for the environment too.

Sesheta and I recently had the pleasure of attending an event hosted by the Green Beauty Team. We spent an evening learning and celebrating healthy beauty. Inspired by our good friend (and host) Rebecca Casciano, I've been trying to green up my personal beauty routine...one product at a time. Being that I'm so conscious of what I put in my body, why wouldn't I want to be just as aware about what goes on my body? Does this have your mind spinning a bit? Click here for a list of toxic ingredients that has become my new shopping guide. 

The Two Rebeccas! Images c/o Green Beauty Team

Lately Rebecca's been rocking a shade of neon pink lipstick that has me smitten. I got the chance to sample this lil beauty delight at the event (with an amazing makeup pro applying it, no less!) Immediately, I loved the way it looked with my skin tone.  Ilia Beauty Lipstick in Neon Angel is my now my go-to for bold summer lip color...expect to see a lot more of it in future outfit posts! In the most perfect highly pigmented shade of punchy pink, it rivals the best-selling brands at Sephora...and as a bonus- it actually keeps lips moist and smooth. Most importantly, when you are licking your lips you won't be worrying about what your body is absorbing and how it's affecting your health. Find your perfect shade online at Spirit Beauty Lounge...and stay tuned for #4! xoxo Becca

PFMs Healthy Living: LifeFactory Water Bottles

most don't know that i have named myself a water snob; i am one of those people who refuses to drink water that doesn't taste good.  don't get me wrong, i am fully aware that i am a child of privilege, especially when so much of the world is in need of clean drinking water.  i am blessed (or cursed depending on your outlook) to live in the land of plenty.  we have multiple types and brands of water that we can drink in addition to water flowing out of our tap.  while i am not totally sold on the bottled water phenomenon, i do know what tastes good.  that means i do buy bottled water, but i always refill bottles to carry on the go.  ...so here are my reasons for giving Lifefactory bottles a test run.

1. a big part of keeping my water fresh tasting and not stale, is based on what i carry it in.  i have owned a Klean Kanteen for years. my whole family has had them and i still swear by those bottles.  ...but when these babies came on the scene, the idea of using glass was more up my alley.  these bottles by Lifefactory, boast that, in addition to being BPA and toxic material free, they offer the best taste.  
2. glass?? i did have my reservations... i wasn't sure if it was gonna make my bag (even) heavier to carry one around.  not to mention, the chances of breakage with one drop (did i mention how banged up my Klean Kanteen is from multiple drops?).  despite the possible disadvantages, i still wanted to got one.  though i am a water snob, i can be really bad at making sure i get my daily fill.  the main benefit of glass is that i need to see the water going down in my bottle so that i can keep my eye on the prize.  when i can't see the water level, i am more likely to ignore that i haven't emptied the bottle.  i'm hoping the guilt of seeing a full bottle will assist in me being extra hydrated.
3. last but not least, who can resist the fun, colorful silicone covers??  it was hard for me to choose which one to go with.  surprisingly, i was not drawn to my usual fave color purple.  instead, i chose to go with the midnight blue color (see pic above).  i also bagged the 22oz for $19.99 at Wild by Nature out here on LI.  that's a full $2-3 cheaper than i've seen it elsewhere.

so now it remains to be seen how this bottle performs.  i'll keep you posted!! xo sesheta

Daily Outfit: The Vintage Wrap Skirt

Everyone has at least one wardrobe piece that you've never worn, yet for some reason you can't let it go. You struggle with putting together an outfit that makes use of it, and end up pushing it to the back of your closet. Maybe you hold on to hope because it was such a good sale price, or it has sentimental value, or it was an on-trend impulse purchase that cost you a pretty penny. 

This vintage wrap skirt falls under the sentimental value category...it was once my grandmother's. I loved the pattern but wasn't sure about the fit and the style of it. So this simple little number kept getting taken out...and put back. I almost listed it in eBay a few times before talking myself out of it. Finally, I took the time to play around with a few different options that I already owned and poof- it was meant to be. The skirt needed a thick belt to define the waist and complement the colors within the print. Wooden wedges added to the ethnic vintage vibe of the skirt, and the most difficult choice was the most basic option- a fitted tank that offset the fullness of the skirt. My casual afternoon of leisure had me grabbing a denim jacket and hitting the road, looking laid-back and boho-chic!

(Skirt-Vintage, Tank- Shopbop, Belt- Anthropologie, Wedges- BCBG, Denim Jacket- J.Crew, Beaded Bracelet- Metal Monk, New Angle Sunglasses- Anthropologie)

P.S. What's your "questionable" wardrobe piece that has you stumped? The ladies of MavenFresh are up for the challenge...we would love to help you find a use for this piece and create outfit suggestions from your closet chaos! Ask the PFMs today!