Love boutique shopping? Check out Boutikey!

/ BethonBeauty / Leave a comment

I’m a big fan of local boutique shopping. Actually, who am I kidding, I’m a big fan of shopping in general. But nothing beats the service you often get at a small business. The attention to detail, the more personalized service…there are many reasons people opt for their local boutique vs. a big department store.

Over the last year or so, I’ve begun to follow some of my favorite local/Boston boutiques on Instagram and Facebook. Often learning about special sales or getting the first glimpse into new items. I’ve loved keeping up with these businesses through social media. Recently, I noticed a post from Boutikey on Instagram which featured a cute outfit (lovely winter white faux fur vest and some accessories – see below).

There it is - the original post that caught my eye

There it is – the original post that caught my eye

Click to –> Shop Boutikey styles now!

I commented on the post and got an almost immediate reply – that they had a few vests in stock at their “pop up” boutique location in Fenway (Boston, MA). I won’t lie, I actually tried to drive to Fenway but got lost and never actually found the “pop up” boutique. Thankfully though, the woman who replied to me on Instagram also left a phone number. I called and let her know I would love to pick it up but might not make it over. She told me the vest would soon be available online through their online boutique Shopboutikey.com. This news peaked my interest…

another cute look from the Boutikey Insta account

another cute look from the Boutikey Insta account

It led to me doing some digging on Boutikey. As their site says: Boutikey is a company that aims to bring the boutique shopping experience online. The founder, Tiana asked herself: What if she could find a way to bring the boutique shopping experience online, and help consumers and store owners engage beyond the typical store hours? And there you have it- Boutikey was born.

Boutikey aggregates inventory from local boutiques and also sells items direct (through ShopBoutikey.com). Through ShopBoutikey.com, you can browse clothing and accessories from local boutiques – and even purchase from multiple boutiques at one time. Just add what you want to your shopping cart like any other ecommerce experience.

**Update**: there is a Boutikey app for the iPhone and coming soon for Droid. Through the Boutikey app you can:

  • Browse and discover new fashions/looks from your local boutiques (currently, just Boston boutiques)
  • Share looks across your social networks
  • Find a boutique in your area
  • Find out about offers & special events
  • Earn points/rewards for each dollar you spend
  • Through your profile you can track your favorite looks, favorite stores, and track your rewards

Yesterday, I stopped by Crush on Newbury Street and earned points by shopping…

Crush Boutique's feed from the Boutikey app

Crush Boutique’s feed from the Boutikey app

Click to –> Shop Boutikey styles now!

I earned 156 points yesterday for shopping. Once I've spent $500, I get 20% off my next purchase

I earned 156 points yesterday for shopping. Once I’ve spent $500, I get 20% off my next purchase

Currently, Boutikey is focused on the Boston area but there is interest in expanding. Looks like they’re expanding into CA and CT. And they encourage: If you have a favorite boutique you’d like to see online, email hello@boutikey.com with your name and your store suggestion.

Boston boutiques you can shop through Boutikey: Ku De Ta (Chestnut Hill, South Boston), Habit (South Boston), Pretty Reckless (South Boston), Heart & Sole (North End), Crush Boutique (Newbury St.) to name a few.

What really sparked me to finally write this post was – I had added a couple items to my cart on ShopBoutikey.com and entered my info – but I had decided I didn’t want to buy “right now.” Unlike big department stores, I didn’t get a generic “you forgot something” or “you left something in your cart” email. Instead, I got an email from a real person. An email written to me – mentioning the items left behind and some additional info on them. And, a 10% discount offer. The personalized service you are used to getting “in store” definitely came through in this email. I was pleasantly surprised.

So, why shop Boutikey? 

  • To support local small businesses (woo hoo!!!)
  • Browse and buy from many different boutiques from your desktop or phone through Shopboutikey.com. FREE ground ship (or $12.95 for 2 day). Shop boutique items 24/7 from anywhere
  • Download the *free* Boutikey app to find new boutiques near you, browse new styles, and earn rewards just for shopping

Couple other things

  • Follow Boutikey on Instagram for hot off the press new items
  • Sign up for their email/newsletter and get 10% off your 1st order
  • They also have a cool blog: boutikeystyle.com with outfit ideas galore
  • With “Small Business Saturday” around the corner – just another great reason to shop local on November 29th

Soooo check it out! Follow em’ on Instagram – at the very least you’ll get some funky wardrobe ideas.

Click to –> Shop Boutikey styles now!

Don’t forget! “LIKE ME” on Facebook @CupcakesandNailpolish for more beauty and product inspiration!

/ BethonBeauty / Leave a comment

When I’m not writing blog posts – I’m sharing stuff on my Facebook page

Check it out: HERE

❤

just shared on FB - exclusive Deborah Lippman color and some other holiday-ish goodies

just shared on FB – Barney’s exclusive Deborah Lippman polish color and some other holiday-ish goodies

Pre-Holiday 2014: Add some sparkle to your wardrobe & beauty bag!

/ BethonBeauty / Leave a comment

The idea for this post was sparked the other day while I watched puffy white snowflakes fly all around the streets of Boston. It felt strangely like the holidays. Albeit a tad too early for my taste (being barely Nov 1)!

The snowflakes themselves were sparkling and it made me think of holiday *things* – things that glitter.

Remember, glitter and sparkle aren’t just for pageants and Halloween! The holidays are a perfect time to break out some sparkle. Below are some ideas if you want to get into the Holiday party spirit a little early.

 

  • Deborah Lippman polish: *new* color called “Autumn in New York.” Autumn, winter, whatever. They’re both chilly seasons and this metallic gold polish is perfect for holiday fingers and toes. Click here to check it out: deborah lippmann Luxe Chrome Nail Lacquer; $20

 

DL's "Autumn in New York" hello winter nails

DL’s “Autumn in New York” hello winter nails

 

 

  • Rebecca Minkoff embellished winter white becky blazer: I’ll say it outright, this is pricey. Personally, I wouldn’t buy it because I’d spill red wine, chocolate, or something intensely dark on it. BUT, it’s so lovely, right? I picture it with black skinny jeans or trousers, tank underneath, heels, and a colorful clutch. Perfect for an after work holiday affair. The fabric and sparkles are high quality, picture doesn’t quite do it justice. Click here to check it out: Bloomingdales.com; $428

 

Rebecca Minkoff embellished blazer - so classy, so expensive, wah

Rebecca Minkoff embellished blazer – so classy, so expensive, wah

 

 

  • Splendid sparkle jersey dress: for a hot second I thought, no, this is too springy. But then, I got to talking with the Splendid saleswoman and she mentioned her manager wore it with tights, a pair of booties, and a cute blazer on top. Love it. The gold sparkle (might be hard to see in pic) on the cream color definitely gives off a holiday vibe. It also comes in black with gold sparkle. And love the hem line! Click here to check it out: Splendid.com; $158
Splendid cotton sparkle dress - comfy and whimsical!

Splendid cotton sparkle dress – comfy and whimsical!

 

 

  • Bobbi Brown sparkle eye shadow: new news!  the sparkle shadows are now a permenant part of the Bobbi Brown make up line. I’m a big fan of this brand and these shadows are super fun for the holidays. *11* different sparkly colors to choose from. Click here to check it out: Sephora.com; $32

 

Bobbi Brown sparkle shadow - bling up ya lids

Bobbi Brown sparkle shadow – bling up ya lids

 

 

  • American Apparel sparkle leggings: every lady has to have a pair of sparkly leggings in her wardrobe. They’re more versatile than you think. Spice up that little black dress. Or, pair with some boots and a chunky sweater for a cozy yet fancy, holiday vibe. Click here to check it out: American Apparel Sparkle Pantyhose – White / Silver / XS/S; $10-$20

 

American Apparel sparkle tights - glam up ya gams

American Apparel sparkle tights – glam up ya gams

 

 

  • JoJo Blings earrings: there is literally a color for any occasion and any outfit. These new cushion cut blings in *RUBY* are perfect for the Holidays. And frankly, any time of year. I love JoJo blings to bring a pop of color to any ole outfit choice. Click here to check it out: JoJolovesyou.com; $32
JoJo cushion blings in Ruby - how beautiful are these??

JoJo cushion blings in Ruby – how beautiful are these??

 

 

  • Body Shop glazed apple sparkler: I came across this funky product at the airport. I don’t wear shimmer as much as I used to. I used to coat myself in glitter freshman year of college before going out on Saturday night. I swear, it was the “in” thing to be super sparkly all over. I like this shimmer for two reasons. 1. The packaging is adorable. It has the old fashion perfume puff. 2. It puts out just the right amount of shimmer. It’s not big pieces of glitter but small, silver sparkles that give a little glimmer. Totally fun for a night out. Add a little to your hair? You’re never too old for that! Click here to check it out: TheBodyshop.com; $14.40
Body Shop apple sparkler!

Body Shop apple sparkler!

As we flip to Fall…how can you combat skin dryness? Here’s an idea!

/ BethonBeauty / 1 Comment

I’ve been meaning to share a new (to me) Fall face wash combination. I’m not walking away from my tried and true routine that includes regular use of @home peel pads (see link below to post on some faves in this category). But, as we transition to Fall and skin can start to show more signs of dryness, I needed something a bit more calming in my regular skincare routine.

Thankfully, I was introduced to this product while browsing the cutest beauty shop ever (Supple Apothecary in Orleans, MA) a few weekends back. The product is part of the REN Skincare line. A line I’ve been a fan of for some time now (most/all products are parabeen free, woohoo!), but had never tried this particular product.

What is it?

  • REN’s EverCalm Gentle Cleansing Milk
  • A creamy face wash that removes makeup and “the days dirt”
  • Leaves skin feeling clean without feeling dry (i.e. no tight feeling), and no residue left behind which some creamy washes can do

photo 1-3

How I use it?

  • A few pumps and I massage it all over my face and neck
  • Side note – love the packaging for this product, comes in a pump tube – sanitary and easy to travel with
  • Sometimes I add a few drops of water – although the texture is pretty creamy and doesn’t necessarily need it
  • After working it around, I use a warm (not hot! that’ll dry you out) face cloth to remove the product along with my makeup and days dirt

photo 2-7

gently massage it around face and neck

gently massage it around face and neck

Use warm face cloth to wipe off product/makeup/the days dirt!

Use warm face cloth to wipe off product/makeup/the days dirt!

Between the cream wash and the warm wash cloth – my skin feels completely clean and fresh – ahhhhh!

I follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer

If you find your skin is dry or gets drier as seasons change, check out this combination. Or, perhaps you have more sensitive skin all around, this could be a good option for you.

The REN cream wash retails for $30 and can find at Dermstore, Sephora or Barney’s. It’s a reasonable price pt for a great product! Or click to buy here:

Ren Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk (For Sensitive Skin) 150ml/5.1oz

(Link to blog post on @home chemical peel pads that can be a great addition to your skincare routine: here)

Oil pulling…giving it a shot

/ BethonBeauty / Leave a comment

I woke up this AM and decided it was time to try oil pulling. I had picked up a new jar of Coconut Oil yesterday at The Common Crow an awesome natural food store in Gloucester, MA. I wrote a post on some of the benefits of Coconut oil awhile back: read here. But at that time I had no idea what oil pulling was. Over the last year, I’ve heard about it more and more. I wonder, is it just another health fad? I don’t know! This is a great post by Wellness Mama that explains what oil pulling is and benefits of it.

What sparked me to finally try? In 2 different conversations this past week – I noticed some pearly whites…and had to say “your teeth look so white!” And I got the same response (2 different people, 2 different conversations) = “I’ve been doing oil pulling!” Boom. Done. Convinced me to try since I love whitening my teeth but those damn strips huuuurt my teeth and gums, ouch. Could this be a healthier, more comfortable alternative??

In a nutshell, I swished some coconut oil around my mouth this morning – what I’m hoping to get out of it – whiter teeth and fresher breath…oh and, I have 2 crowns that always bother me…hoping it helps clean around those babies. 

new jar of Coconut Oil. Ready to be swished

new jar of Coconut Oil. Ready to be swished

My initial reaction when I put it in my mouth…a big glob of room temp coconut oil – “oh gross…gross…so thick.” But then I started swishing it around and realized it tastes faintly like coconut and nothing else- shocking, I know. I love the taste of coconut, that helps. The texture is thick but as you swish it around it starts to thin out. I tried to do it for the recommended 15-20 mins…they say it’s good to do it in the shower – 2 birds, 1 stone! But I did it while watching a movie…and I only lasted about 10 mins. Which I was fine with for my first time. My jaw actually got tired. Clearly, I need to relax my swishing a bit.

I brushed my teeth after, as recommended to remove any lingering bacteria. My mouth feels clean. No after-taste or oily feeling on my teeth.

I’ll check back in a week or so to let you know what I think. And let you know if there are any noticeable differences. 

Have you tried oil pulling??