Baby, it's almost cold outside...

Ok, I have to admit something.  I am not a fan of summer.  (Thank you Vivi Paiva for this great photo of me in Central Park enjoying all the fall!)

While I love #roseallday, long flowy maxi dresses and that summer glow (read: sweat), there is nothing I love more than bundling up in coats, scarves and bold lips.  That crisp autumn air and the coziness call to me (probably from spending most of my life in warm countries) and so I cherish these fall and winter months. 

Obviously we all have our fall transition rituals, but this year I thought I’d tell you some of my favorite things that are helping me transition to fall.

LANEIGE:  Skincare is probably my 000 change between the seasons, that dry, scaly feeling let's us know that winter is quickly approaching.  And when my skin is not hydrated enough:  it makes makeup application near impossible, my skin feels ick and honestly it’s just painful. 

Two years ago, I fell in love with Guerlain’s Aqua line (toner, serum and eye cream.. LOVE).  It was the first time in my life that I used a toner and understood why it was such a deal.  But a girl has got to eat, and her money can’t all go on her face.. thank goodness this year I found LANEIGE, a Korean beauty line.  I first read about its Water Sleeping Mask on The Everygirl but was skeptical so went to Sephora to get a sample.  I also grabbed a sample of the toner, and the associates could not stop gushing about the brand and told me I would love it. 

I have to say that I went back and bought the Water Sleeping Mask and the Power Essential Skin Toner (for Normal to Dry Skin) and got a sample of their Lip Sleeping Mask. Yup, ok, I'm OBSESSED with all their products (as the other 5 associates at Sephora on my second trip told me I would be). 

I think the key is that unlike other beauty lines, they don’t use glycolic acid in their toner and this line is water-based which is what my skin craves during these winter months, it really helps keep me hydrated.  Also unlike Guerlain their under $30 pricetag for large product is a #win.

Desk Humidifier:  I know that this sounds completely nerdy, but I bought a desk humidifier. 

I got it at the end of last year and I can’t tell you how much more comfortable it makes me.  Office heat is always so drying and can do a number on your sinuses and your skin.  This little guy is under $20 and will definitely make winters in your office so much more bearable (also, I love the calming light it gives off).  And if you work off a laptop it has a USB plug to connect! 

I always make sure to use filtered water, let it dry out overnight and change the filter as needed (which seems to be every few months or so).

There are some other fancier ones, but especially if you have limited desk space this is a great option.  Definitely worth the $20 investment!

Dark lips:  I know that you can really wear any color given the trends, but really now is the time to break out those burgundy and wine-colored lips because they really look great on everyone.  (They will drive your significant other crazy because they want to kiss you but not end up with that color allll over their faces. #sorrynotsorry)

I’m a MAC gal, so I live in their “Diva” lip, “Plumful” or for a bit more retro matte drama “Candy Cane”.   I've also been incorporating NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment into my kit after a recent shoot.  I loved that it had a beautiful matte finish and even after hours it didn't dry or chap my lips like a lot of matte lips. For some darker vibes, check out "Rock with You" and "Warm Leatherette", and for a pinup flair "Don't Stop".  (Don't you love lipstick names?)

Also, next week I'll post my winter-lip care guide to keep your lips smooth and primped!

Clothing Storage:  First, say a little prayer when you open your winter clothing storage that no critters have gotten in there.  Cannot tell you over the years how many cashmere sweaters I've tried to pray away holes on. (Spoiler: doesn't work!)  So, when switching out my wardrobe for my winter and summer, I always make sure to have some lavender sachets and cedar pieces for my closet and where I am storing clothes to keep them safe.  I like the lavender and the cedar because they are natural, long-lasting, effective, smell great and don’t give you that terrible mothball smell.  If the lavender scent fades, just give the bag a little squeeze and the closet scent will rejuvenate!

Fall baking:  Nothing brings fall into your home like some fresh-baked goodies. Between the aroma and the small kindness of sharing with others, this signals most to me that fall, winter and the holidays are quickly approaching.  For some inspiration, check out some of my fall favorite recipes like Itty Bitty Apple Crisps and Bye Bye Ms. American Pie.  And if you're looking for some "adult" beverages to pair with these, take a sip from my Fall Fete Cocktails!