Simple and Easy Style
Join me for a fun and casual chat about style. I’m sharing about my style journey and my current approach to getting ready during covid-times. I’m giving all the details on my favorite clothing, skincare, and more… plus the people I love to follow for inspiration. I hope this episode gives you a few ideas for cultivating a simple and easy style of your own.
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Turning a Corner at 30
About five years ago, I decided to focus on style and really step into my confidence. I knew who I was and what I wanted, but that wasn’t always reflected in how I was showing up in the world.
Here are a few shifts that really helped:
Clothes: I scheduled an appointment with a stylist at Nordstrom. It was a helpful way to take my wardrobe to the next level.
Makeup: I made it my mission to figure out my 5-minute face. I started with an in-store session with the Bobbi Brown counter Nordstrom. Simple, easy, and classic.
Hair: I bought a curling iron, watched Youtube videos, went to Europe with no other hairstyle option. By the time we came home, I had a new look I loved.
My Style Mindset During Covid
I don’t get dressed every day. I don’t do my makeup every day. And I give myself the freedom to get fully ready for no occasion at all. I’ve tried to embrace this season for what it is.
I still use style and beauty as a way to connect to my inner confidence. Lately, I’m attracted to the idea of being comfortable AND looking put together. I hope to carry this vibe into my post-covid style.
Clothing, Skincare, and Beauty Favorites
Clothing
I’ve been experimenting with sticking to a color scheme of white, black, blue, olive green, mustard yellow, and cream. The four stores I shop the most are Madewell, Everlane, Amour Vert, and occasionally Anthropologie.
For exercise clothes, I love Outdoor Voices. My running shoes and socks are from Allbirds. For pajamas, I have three sets from Tommy John that I rotate. I also just bought a gorgeous robe from Parachute that’s the perfect mix of light and cozy for the climate in Austin.
Who wears shoes these days? I’m all about that barefoot life. I have a pair of Huarache Sandals from Nisolo that I love and I’m just ordered a pair of their Lima Slip Ons for the upcoming fall season.
I’m very inspired by Natalie Borton. I also really like anything Jen Pinkston shares about style. She’s a blogger here in Austin who’s a former wardrobe stylist. Check out her brand La Paloma for children’s all-day gowns.
When I was out in the world and getting dressed on the daily, I loved Rent the Runway’s Membership.
I have a style board on Pinterest, which is a great way to curate an overall vibe with your style.
Jewelry
My new ritual is to give myself a hand massage in the morning with BeautyCounter hand cream and then put on my rings.
I have a few pieces from Mejuri that I love: Bold Hoops, Zodiac Necklace, and Bold Link Chain Bracelet.
Like I said earlier, I adore Natalie Borton’s style. Her jewelry collection is full of simple, beautiful, easy-to-wear pieces. I also wear my “OM” necklace by Maya Brenner all the time.
On my right wrist, I wear two mantra cuffs by Jen Moulton. One says Magic and the other says Allow.
Skincare
This is the least “perfected” area of my style life. There are so many products to choose from... and I’ve had struggles with eczema over the past few years. So this is a list of things trying (and enjoying).
Youth To The People - love their Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream and Superfood Serum
Herbivore Botanicals - all their products are such a vibe
May Lindstrom - skin rituals, amazing packaging, clean ingredients, very decadent brand
Leahlani Skincare’s Mermaid Mask - smells amazing and my skin feels so good after
Mother Dirt - new to me, but I really like their Biome-Friendly Body Oil
Myro Deodorant - still on that natural deodorant journey, but I’m enjoying their $68 gift set
Beautycounter - All Bright C Serum and Charcoal Cleansing Bar
EDIT: Since recording this episode I’ve fallen hard for some goop skincare products! I first bought a mini size of the GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator and had a trial of their GOOPGENES All-In-One Nourishing Face Cream. My skin was so smooth and happy after using both. I just ordered full sizes and am watching my tracking number like a hawk!
Makeup
I feel very good about my makeup routine. It’s easy and quick, so I make sure to take my time and enjoy applying.
Beautycounter Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer and Brilliant Brow Gel
Always curl my lashes before I apply ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara
Just started using Honest Beauty’s Honestly Bright Eyes as a color-correcting eye cream
For blush, I got very tired of Glossier’s Cloud Paint... just switched to Beautycounter’s Satin Powder Blush in Nectar, which according to The Stripe is the “clean beauty” equivalent to Nars Orgasm
Completely obsessed with Beautycounter’s Sheer Genius Conditioning Lipstick (just got the Pearl shade)… and I’m very quickly collecting all the new shades of their Beyond Gloss
My friend Mary Bertschinger is my go-to resource for all things Beautycounter. She’s a sweet mama of three who will never steer you in the wrong direction when it comes to recommendations and simple makeup tutorials.
I’m also very inspired by Sarah James, aka @Whoorl. Her blog is a great resource for style and clean beauty for women 40+.
Hair
I’m currently searching for my next favorite shampoo and conditioner. I have a very basic hair routine. I always let my hair air dry and I go many days between washes. I’m mildly obsessed with my curling iron. I’ve had it for years, it heats up fast, and is super easy to use. I have the Ghd Curve 1" Classic Curl Iron and just ordered their 1.25” to play with now that my hair is getting pretty long.
Be Your Own Fairy Godmother
If you could wave a magic wand over your closet or makeup bag, what would you change? Over time you can cultivate the vibe you’re seeking.
It’s been a journey for me, but one that I’ve really enjoyed. I’m excited to keep exploring style and beauty as I evolve. If I had a magic wand, I would:
Have more timeless and high-quality pieces that will last from season to season.
Support designers and brands that are ethical, eco-friendly, and inclusive.
Continue to cultivate a ‘less is more’ capsule with my style, skincare, and beauty.
Tell Me About Your Style!
I’d love to hear about your style journey, who’s inspiring you, and what you thought of today’s episode. Send me an email or DM me on the ‘gram @kaileenelise.
I’ll be back with the final episode of season one. For episode 22, I’ll be chatting about life, work, and the ideas I have for the future!
Credits
Theme song is Wildflowers by Gyom
Photography by Angela Doran
Disclosures
This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission, at no additional cost to you. I promise to only recommend products and resources I personally use and love. Thanks for supporting me and my business!
