CANDY WASHINGTON

WRITER | PRODUCER | ACTOR | MANIFESTATION + SELF-LOVE MUSE

Fashionable regrets: The little white lace dress

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

I'm in mourning. And no, I'm not talking about the kind when you reach down into your bag of BBQ Lay's potato chips and realize that you've already eaten the last one while binge watching Orange is the New Black on Netflix. I'm talking about the type of mourning when you realize that you've missed your golden opportunity to buy that dress, bag, top, or bottom, that you feel in love with at the store but talked yourself out of buying it for whatever reason.

For me, that was the other day while I was at the Beverly Center and popped into Forever 21, don't judge me, they have some pretty trendy pieces that compliment my investment items, and as a fashionista that's on a budget, mixing 'the high' with 'the low' is my middle name. Did I mention that the Anja Rubik is the face of their new fall campaign? But I digress, I found this white lace bodycon dress that was to die for – think Herve Leger's coveted bandage dresses, so I swung the dress over my arm and proceeded to the fitting rooms. Once inside I squeezed into the dress and it fit like a glove, but was a bit snugger and a bit shorter than my usual style. “Sex kitten Candy?” I wasn't sure I was comfortable with that title. 

So I talked myself out of buying the Herve Leger-esque dress that fit me to a tee and walked out of the store empty-handed. Flash-forward to tonight where I'm invited out for cocktails at a swanky club in West Hollywood and I'm franticly looking through my closet – boho-chic tops, leggings, sequins galore, denim cut-offs, but nothing even remotely resembling the look I need to make my mark tonight. I've already worn all of my go-to going out dresses and they have been too heavily documented on Instagram for a repeat wear. 

So alas, I sit here, mourning the outfit that could have been: my white lace  bodycon dress paired with my red pumps and a gold clutch with a smokey eye and nude lips. Sigh. The worst part? The only person I have to blame is myself, just like when I've eaten that last Lay's potato chip. So let me know, when have you regretted talking yourself out of making that golden purchase? 


Your ultimate guide to Black Friday, Cyber Monday, last-minute gifts, and deals

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

With Black Friday and Cyber Monday right around the corner, I wanted to quickly share with you a round-up of upcoming beauty deals, fashion steals, and last-minute gifts for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Sloane Rouge:
Sloane Rouge Winter '14 fashion collection promo code "TEAMSR" for 20% off + FREE shipping. Shop here: http://sloanerouge.com


Sterling Forever:
The statement jewelry site SterlingForever.com is offering a FREE pair of their popular double sided studs with EVERY purchase made on Monday, Dec. 1st for CYBER MONDAY! 


RITUALS Diwali Collection:
The Diwali collection consists of an exclusive range of body and home cosmetics, enriched with the fragrance of White Patchouli and Cardamom. The ultra-caring Diwali Delight shower foam cleanses your body and cares for skin whilst creating a warm ambiance through its spicy yet soothing tones. Touch of Light body cream provides deep moisture to leave skin feeling radiant and smooth throughout the day. TheSacred Fire fragrance sticks help fill the home with the charming fragrance and blend of Patchouli and Cedar Wood to create a serene and relaxed winter setting. Pair this with the soft glow of the Sacred Fire candle and your home will be infused with the wonderful scents of Patchouli and Cardamom for up to 70 hours. Price/Availability: $15-$35, www.rituals.com


Soxfords:
Sock brand Soxfords is ideal for the holidays. Soxfords bridge the gap between novelty and classic dress, and they are designed to complement the personality of the wearer. With many different styles and unique sock backstories, there is a pair to suit everyone, both men and women. 

Soxfords also offers themed gift boxes, a sock of the month subscription, and sock insurance. Custom sock embroidery coming soon for the Holidays. 

Made in Columbia from a high quality Peruvian Pima Cotton. Available in men's and women's sizes. Price ranges from $12.50 - $25. Shop online here: wwwSoxfords.com


RITUALS Holiday Gift Sets:
A wonderful pampering gift for spoiling yourself or a loved one, the RITUALS gift sets include the best-selling foaming shower gels, shampoo, body scrub and body cream in four different scents, aimed at calming and soothing your everyday beauty routines. Available in Sakura (Cherry Blossom and Rice Milk), Hammam (Eucalyptus and Rosemary), Laughing Buddha (Mandarin Orange and Cedarwood) and Ayurveda (Indian Rose and Almond Oil). Price/Availability: $25 each, www.rituals.com


Manhattan Moonshine:
Manhattan Moonshine is bottled is a sleek art deco decanter because REAL moonshine deserves to be taken seriously with the ability to be put up against other superior traditional whiskeys.  This superiority and formulation of grains, oats, honey, rye results in an unaged Whiskey that can be sipped like traditional premium Whiskeys, but also opens the door to using whiskey in the flourishing cocktail craze.

Manhattan Moonshine, developed by Whiskey veteran, author and master distiller Ian Smiley in conjunction with Will Kehler, is an un-aged Whiskey sourced and distilled in upstate New York.  Absent of corn, with a distinctive grain bill including oats, rye, a unique yeast and spelt with 2-row malt, Manhattan Moonshine was developed to be the first true moonshine complex enough for sipping Whiskey connoisseurs as well as pure enough to allow for mix ability. Available for purchase October 15 online at www.Manahattan-Moonshine.com, and on and off-premise in New York State. ABV 47.5%, ARP $45. Shop here: http://www.manhattan-moonshine.com


MIYU Beauty:
Buy one get one free on Black Friday! Use promo code: MIYUblackfriday and shop here: http://www.miyubeauty.com


SKINDINAVIA:
This Black Friday + Cyber Monday (November 28th through December 1st), SKINDINAVIA is offering a FREE Makeup Primer Spray + FREE Shipping + 20% off with code 20off. Shop here: http://skindinavia.com


Piper’s Perfumery Naughty & Nice: 
For the girl who can’t pick and shouldn’t have to, have it all with Naughty & Nice, a sensual fragrance that will help you embrace your every emotion!  Top notes of Sweet Mandarin and Cyclamen lead into mid tones of Sensual Jasmine, White Cedar and Sugared Amber Crystals, ending with dry notes of Creamy Sandalwood, Warm Vanilla Bean and Musk. ($4.98; Wal-Mart and Wal-Mart.com)


Black Friday Sales You Need to Know:

  • Joie: 25 percent off sitewide now through Dec. 1.
  • Norstrom: Designer clearance event now through Jan. 6
  • C Wonder: 40 percent off sitewide now through Dec. 1.
  • Calvin Klein: Free shipping now until Dec. 1.
  • Calvin Klein Outlet: 50 percent off sitewide and free shipping now until Dec. 1.
  • Kate Spade Saturday: 30 percent off full price items now until Dec. 1 with code DEALME.
  • Sole Society: 30 percent off and free shipping now until Dec. 1. All sales final.
  • The Corner: Extra 20 percent off and free shipping ow until Dec. 1 with code CYBER2014.
  • Yoox.com: Extra 20 percent off and free shipping now until Dec. 1 with code YOOXGIVING.
  • Alternative Apparel: 30 percent off orders $75 now until Nov. 30 with code THANKFUL.
  • DKNY: 20 percent off sweaters and outwear now until Nov 29.
  • BCBG Generation: 40 percent off online today only.
  • Lucy: 30 percent off everything now until Nov. 30.
  • Equipment: 20 percent off entire collection now until Dec. 1.
  • American Eagle: Take 40 percent off and free shipping at American Eagle with code GOBBLEUP. Offer ends Nov. 30.
  • Aerie: Take 40 percent off at Aerie through Nov. 30 with code GOBBLEUP. Also, get free PJ pants with buy one, get one free at Aerie.
  • Andrew Marc: Save up to 60 percent at Andrew Marc starting on Nov. 23, and on Nov. 24, shop down jackets starting at $99.
  • Bloomingdale's: Save up to 50 percent off sitewide, and take $25 off almost every $200 purchase with free shipping and free returns at Bloomingdale's through Nov. 30. Explore the Baby Sale at Bloomingdale's and save 20-40 percent on a great selection of infant merchandise through Nov. 30. Better yet, it's the Designer Handbag Sale at Bloomingdale's! Save up to 30 percent on designer handbags through Dec. 7.
  • Boutique To You: Save up to 20 percent sitewide on purchased $500+ with code AF50020 at Boutique To You through Dec. 31.
  • Blue & Cream: Save up to 15 percent at Blue & Cream through Nov. 27.
  • Calvin Klein: 30 percent off specialty handbags now through Nov. 30.
  • Charlotte Russe: It's buy one, get one free at Charlotte Russe. Buy one, get one free with $5 dresses and $5 shoes.
  • Cynthia Vincent: Get 20 percent off full-price items at Cynthia Vincent with code NOW20.
  • Express: Get 50 percent off everything Nov. 25 through Nov. 28 at Express.
  • J.Crew Factory: Get 50 percent off everything plus free shipping at J.Crew Factorywith code THANKS.
  • James Perse: Check out the holiday sale and free shipping at James Perse.
  • Kate Spade New York: Save up to 75 percent plus $5 ground shipping in the US and $10 in Canada at Kate Spade New York.
  • Lands' End: Get 40 percent off select categories each day and 30 percent off the remainder of your order at Lands' End through Nov. 30.
  • Little Circus: Get 40 percent off your entire purchase at Little Circus through Dec. 1 with code THANKS, and each time you spend $50, you'll get $10 back.
  • Les Nouvelles: Get an additional 25 percent off all sale items at Les Nouvelles today only.
  • Lord & Taylor: Get an extra 20 percent off almost everything and 25 percent off fine jewelry through Nov. 30 at Lord & Taylor with code THANKS.
  • Lucky Brand Jeans: Save 45 percent on all orders and get free shipping at Lucky Brand Jeans.
  • Madewell: Get 25 percent off sitewide through Nov. 30 at Madewell with code GIFTON.
  • Metropark: Get 25 percent off at Metropark with code CYBERDAY through Dec. 2.
  • Nike: Through Dec. 22, get free returns at Nike and take an additional 25 percent off clearance through Dec. 2.
  • Pendleton: Save 20 percent on outerwear from Pendleton through Nov. 26.
  • Pink Mascara: Get 25 percent off with code CYBERDAY at Pink Mascara through Dec. 2.
  • Rebecca Taylor: Save 30 percent on sale items at Rebecca Taylor through Nov. 30.
  • Saks OFF 5TH: Take an extra 40 percent off your purchase at Saks OFF 5TH with code GOBBLE through Nov. 26.
  • Space.NK: Spend $100 and get a gift card for $25 to use on next purchase of $100 or more. Plus get free ground shipping and three complimentary samples of your choice. While Supplies Last at Space.NK through Nov. 30.
  • Theory: Shop the Holiday Kickstart Sale and get 40 percent off select merchandise at Theory.
  • Tibi: Get a free additional 20 percent off sale items at Tibi through Nov. 28 with code BLACKFRIDAY14.
  • Stella and Dot: 25 percent off all sale items now through Nov. 30.
  • Madewell: 25 percent off sitewide now through Nov. 30 with code GIFTON.

Maison Kitsuné and Peter Jensen Collaborate on a Special Holiday Collection

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Check out the scoop on the Maison Kitsune x Peter Jensen collaboration!

Just in time for the holiday season, Maison Kitsuné introduces an eclectic and cheeky capsule collection created exclusively for the brand by Danish designer Peter Jensen.

The collection is an ode to the glamor of the seventies and is accented with playful details, including a fur jacket, cardigans, striped sweatshirts and dresses for women, as well as a gingham shirt and cream-colored corduroy suit for men. The capsule also features a chic wallet and purse, both cheerfully branded with Peter Jensen's iconic rabbit and Maison Kitsuné's beloved fox, perfect additions to this seasonal special collection and ideal gift options for the fun-loving friends on your holiday list.

The collection was photographed in Los Angeles by Henrik Purienne, photographer, director and founder of Mirage magazine.

The Peter Jensen for Maison Kitsuné capsule collection is now available at all Maison Kitsuné boutiques, as well as on www.kitsune.fr.

Tech Skincare Startup, RESCUE by Stemáge, launches at NYC Pop-Up Shop at WALLPLAY

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

I just got the insider fashion scoop on the new tech skincare startup, RESCUE, that just pulled off one of the coolest pop-up shops of the year in NYC.

Check out the scoop on the event:
YC (California Technology) startup-meets-skincare-company, RESCUE by Stemáge premiered at a popup at Wallplay in LES, and it wasn’t your mom’s skincare shop, that’s for sure. Open daily with an onsite aesthetician sampling Stemage, and with nightly screenings of rescue themed movies of The Warriors, Big Lebowski and the Advanced Style Documentary, the event attracted a group of NYC influencers, bloggers, locals, and many others who experienced a company doing things differently.

RESCUE is an innovative new skincare company, anchored by all natural ingredients and a stem cell derived core active "MDFc19" that works with your unique biology to support cellular activity by increasing skin based collagen production. More collagen means healthier, younger appearing skin.

Developed by a world-renowned surgeon and researcher, Dr David Scharp, RESCUE is different from other skincare because its core active MDFc19 works both to support skin in the dermis (surface) and epidermis (deep), and helps to produce collagen, addressing a variety of skin issues all at once. Whether preventative or restorative, young or aging, RESCUE works universally for any age, skin-type, and ethnicity.

4 years in development, RESCUE by Stemáge began with its proprietary  and game changing anti-aging active MDFc19, and decided to evolve its product line based upon what people said they wanted. As a result, the focus of RESCUE became more tech company and less beauty brand, with an emphasis on bringing to market a solution that was accessible, easy to use and highly effective. 

Offering a few industry firsts, Stemáge comes in two configurations, Ultra Moisturizer and Concentrated Serum. Both contain the same amount of proprietary core active MDFc19. If you have oily - normal skin, the Serum is a perfect for daily use. If you have dry to very dry skin, the Ultra Moisturizer is ideal. You can use each separately or together if you prefer, as many of our user do. With RESCUE, Stemáge is also the first company to deliver a core active for collagen production in a moisturizing formula. Stemáge also launched its two products in single serving applications, perfect for active on the go lifestyles. Both the serum and moisturizer boxes come with 30 single use packets, perfect for daily application at home or on the go; with RESCUE your best skin is always within reach.

In short: Over the course of the week, the #RESCUEPOPUP attracted thousands of New Yorkers, influencers, and media who flocked to see what RESCUE was all about, realizing quickly that Stemáge's RESCUE isn’t your traditional skincare company, and once they tried the product, they immediately became users. With RESCUE you really can feel the difference.

Credit: DMG events 

Beauty trends and holiday gift giving with Elizabeth Arden

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

Since the holiday season is full gift giving, parties, family gatherings, and photo opps, I wanted to share with you all my holiday beauty trends with Elizabeth Arden as my get-and-give gorgeous gift to you.

The first beauty trends this holiday season is giving the gift of fragrance. The UNTOLD fragrance collection by Elizabeth Arden is the perfect scent for every woman on your list. UNTOLD comes in an array of sizes, an eau de parfum spray, a body cream, and as a shower gel, so you can mix-and-match gifts for your boss, sister, best friend, mom, or mentor.

Beyond just sizes and sprays and creams, the fragrance encapsulates all of the essential beauty attributes of a savvy woman. The scent is sophisticated, feminine, modern, luxurious, and most importantly, it is sensual for this holiday season.

One of the chicest elements of giving the gift of UNTOLD this season, is its one-of-a-kind and multi-faceted bottle shape. The design of the fragrance bottle is inspired by the shape and versatility of the modern woman.

It takes on its own unique look depending on the angle, like how a sophisticated woman is able to move and adapt gracefully from moment-to-moment.

You can easily purchase your own UNTOLD fragrance to get-and-give this holiday season, here.

UNTOLD ignites the true beauty within every woman:

  • Vibrant: Sparkling Pink Pepper fused with crisp Bergamot expose her vibrant optimism and joyful spirit.

  • Unpredictable: Playful, fruity accents of Pear and Blackcurrant Bud LMR* evoke her unpredictable ways.

  • Refined: Delicate Gardenia petals and intoxicating Egyptian Jasmine LMR* reveal her romantic and sophisticated femininity.

  • Mysterious: Nuances of Patchouli Heart LMR and Sandalwood hint at her mysterious aura.

  • Sensual: Heated Ambers cascade over the caress of hypnotic Musk unveiling her magnetic sensuality. Lingering in the air is the unforgettable essence of her presence.

The UNTOLD Elizabeth Arden Collection:

UNTOLD Eau De Parfum Spray $82.00
(3.3 fl. oz./100 ml)
UNTOLD Eau De Parfum Spray $62.00
(1.7 fl. oz./50 ml)
UNTOLD Eau De Parfum Spray $52.00
(1.0 fl. oz./30 ml)
UNTOLD Body Cream $45.00
(6.8 oz./200 ml)
UNTOLD Shower Gel $38.00 (6.8 fl. oz./200 ml)

The second beauty trend is a bold lip for this holiday season. This look is also compliments the style and beauty of the modern, savvy woman and this long lasting beauty trend can be achieved with Elizabeth Arden's Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick ($25) and its Beautiful Color Precision Glide Lip Liner ($21).

The lipstick and lip liner collections were exclusively curated by Rebecca Restrepo, Elizabeth Arden's global makeup artist. Suitable for all skin tones and beauty styles from classic to trendy, the lipsticks and liners are essential beauty must-haves for your makeup arsenal. There are 40 radiant shades that come in medium-to-full coverage and are available in three finishes: cream, shimmer, and pearl.

You can pick up any shade of the Beautiful Color Lipsticks here.

The lipsticks and liners go beyond just making your lips look good, but they have long-lasting moisturizing and soothing benefits. The design of lipsticks have the Red Door logo emblem and come in a chic gold tube with the signature Red Door logo.

Beautiful Color Lipstick key ingredients include:

  • Moisture Binding Spheres: Hydrate and seal in moisture to provide smoother looking lips.

  • Volulip™: Delivers and locks moisture into lips giving them a fuller, plumper appearance.

  • Moisture Enriched Pigments: Moisturizing spheres surround and moisturize each pigment providing rich, lasting color, while making lips feel smooth and soft.

  • Shea Butter: A natural emollient that soothes and protects lips.

  • Vitamins A, C, E: A powerful blend of vitamins to help keep lips looking moisturized and healthy.

Perfect for contouring and elevating the natural shape of your lips, the Beautiful Color Precision Glide Lip Liners are perfect stocking stuffers for the fashionista on your list. The liners are creamy and long-lasting that create rich, moist color that won't fade, flake, or feather for up to 12 hours. To perfect your pout, the liners come in 12 on-trend shades from nudes to pinks to browns and berries. They work beautifully with Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick, Ceramide Ultra Lipsticks and Beautiful Color Luminous Lip Gloss shades.

Beautiful Color Precision Glide Lip Liners key ingredients include:

  • Moisture Enriched Pigments: These pigments provide rich, lasting color; lips feel smooth and soft.

  • Vitamins A, C, E: A powerful blend of vitamins to help keep lips looking moisturized and healthy.

  • Beautiful Color Precision Glide Lip Liner is gluten free.

*Presented by Elizabeth Arden 

What I learned from Viola Davis: Lessons from the star of 'How to Get Away with Murder'

Candy Washington1 Comment

Hi lovelies,

This past weekend I had the opportunity to realize one of my life goals, meeting and learning from the Viola Davis. Having the honor of working with her one day is also on my list, but for now, I celebrate and share this moment. I grew up watching Viola's stand-out performances in all of the Law & Orders and then watching her riveting and Oscar-nominated performances in The Help and Doubt, which only furthered her icon status in my eyes.

However, there is nothing more inspiring than watching her bring Annalise Keating to life every 'Thank God It's Thursday' night on, How to Get Away with Murder, Shonda Rhime's new hit show for ABC. She's strong, sexy, and intelligent, yet vulnerable, weak, and conflicted. But most of all, she's real and I see myself in her.

She fills a scene with just one look and makes choices that fearlessly pushes boundaries while giving women permission to be who they are. I don't think anyone was able to look away during her now famous 'removing of the wig' scene.

I remember thinking, “Thank you,” while watching that scene because although she was removing the physical manifestation of her strength, the wig, eyelashes, and make-up, which represented her emotional mask, to reveal her true weaknesses, she never looked more powerful than in that very moment when she was peeled back to her authentic self. It gave us permission to be who we truly are and to stand in that power when all of the masks have been removed. And for that, I am thankful.

I'm also thankful for the lessons that I learned from Viola and of course, the storyteller in me has to share them with you. I hope you find these lessons as powerful, inspiring, and humbling as I have. If so, please share with your friends and tweet, @CandyWashington, @ViolaDavis, and @ShondaRhimes. Additionally, you can visit Viola's philanthropic project to end childhood hunger here.

Lesson #1: Enough is enough.

VIOLA ON MY VISION WALL

VIOLA ON MY VISION WALL

Regarding the backlash from the controversial and now infamous, “Wrought in Rhimes’s Image -Viola Davis Plays Shonda Rhimes’s Latest Tough Heroine,” article in The New York Times, Viola simply says, “Enough is enough.” She wasn't particularly hurt by the article and even though it was poorly written, she does see how the writer was trying to make a positive statement, but it's time to move on the 'Angry Black Woman' stereotype and start focusing on the work and creating content that truly speaks to the majority of society.

She's been called everything from dark-skinned, kinky haired, and not classically beautiful. In true Viola form, she meets these potentially harmful words with grace and simply states that it's time to move on from it, and enough is enough. She quoted a writer who once said, “The reason why I write is so that people don't feel so alone.” Now it's time for TV and film to do the same and to reflect real life. Enough is enough.

Lesson #2: Be an observer of life.

Viola says that she is an observer of life and that life is vast. She takes inspiration from real people and strives to represent a large segment of society that has been marginalized. She uses what she has, who she is as her authentic self, and brings that to the character in way that is intoxicating to audiences because it is so real and raw while giving us permission to embrace who are as well.

You must think beyond the page, what can you bring to the role? She stresses not to try to be her or a Kerry Washington when you walk into the room. Know who you are and bring that.

The way she approached the character of Annalise is that she read the script and didn't buy how strong Annalise was being portrayed. She thought, “She's a liar,” because no one in real life is that strong. Brilliantly, she applies a mask of strength that Annalise wears to protect herself while displaying an equal amount of weakness and vulnerability when the walls of the mask are torn down.

This is the key to what makes her performances so engaging, because in real life, that is how people operate, we are contradictions, we are complex, we wear masks, and we possess dualities. Bringing these complex layers that exist within humanity is what makes her characters so interesting and captivating. She also noted that subtlety doesn't always fit, you have to be real. When you take off the mask, who are you at your core?

Lesson #3: If you love it, do it.

When asked about giving hope to other aspiring actors that have the potential to be great but aren't given the opportunities to showcase their talent, her guidance is that if you love it, do it. You must act and really be in love with the work and know that that is enough and that is the wave that you have to ride. The pay-off is taking the journey with the character and doing the work.

Viola said that she used ride the bus for hours just to do a play in Massachusetts and then one play led to another which led to Broadway which led to TV which led to film and so on. But mind you, she has been acting for 34 years, 26 of which professionally. She did it because she was in love with the work, regardless of any flashy pay-off. She was inspired at the age of 6 by Cicely Tyson's unforgettable performance in “The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman,” and said that if she could do that forever, she would be happy.

Viola also advises that the more you work, the more people will see you, and your break will come. But the break may not be stardom. You need to decide where you want to land and work fearlessly toward that goal. You could start your own acting school in your hometown, work in theater, and so on, but you must decide what your end game is and how are you going to get there.

Viola once said, “I want to be the show.” She knew where she wanted to land, and luckily for us, we get to come along for the ride.  

Be fit and fashionable with Lucy Activewear

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

In case you missed my recent post on my Fitness Secret Weapons, you can check it out here.

But beyond my fitness secret weapons, one thing I love to do while being happy, healthy, and toned is being fashionable while getting fit.

My fashion secret weapon for looking good while feeling good is the new activewear line from Lucy. 


Check out how I would rock the latest looks from Lucy:

For my early morning runs:
I love to wear the grey Lean and Mean Pullover sweatshirt ($79) with my red vintage silk running shorts. During the early morning when there's still a chill, crisp in the air and the sun is just waking up from behind the clouds, it's the perfect balance of keeping me warm while still being breathable enough to cool me down during the run. 


For the treadmill and the elliptical:
My go to top for the treadmill is the Run Your Heart Out Bra Tank ($59). It offers amazing and comfortable support while training on the treadmill. It's also great because I can skip wearing a separate sports bra because there's a built-in sports bra in the tank for added protection. 

For the elliptical, I love to rock the Cardio Sculpt Tank ($55). When I turn up the tunes and crank up the dial on the elliptical, my cardio tank top keeps up with my pace with its breathability, quick drying qualities, and moisture wicking. 


For the gym, yoga, and pilates:
The Endurance Tights ($89) is the perfect workout pants for hitting the gym, striking a pilates pose, or finding your Zen in yoga class. It's ideal for both high-energy activities as well as allowing for flexibility and ease when stretching and posing. 

Must-haves for end of Fall: Beauty, fashion, and entertainment

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

As Fall is quickly coming to an end and ushering in a new season of Winterland, with Christmas music on every station and holiday sales galore, I wanted to share with you all my new must-have items for the end of Fall. It's not to late to give these as gifts or to splurge on a few treats for yourself.

White Sands Hair Care, Orchids Hair Oil ($25)

This delightful smelling hair oil is a staple on the set of Pretty Little Liars. Department head hairstylist Kim Ferry tweeted her love for White Sands saying, "I LOVE this oil! It works so well on the actors ends & smells delish! Thanks 4 sending it! It's a new fav." The oil's orchid flower extract camouflages split ends, fills in imperfections in the hair’s cuticle and keeps hair from frizzing for mirror like shine. 


hello Breathspray: Perfect travel companion, purse and TSA-friendly

Small enough to pass through TSA, fit into your carry-on or slipped in a pocket, don’t be fooled by this purse-friendly breath freshener – hello Breathspray packs enough power to get the job done with just the right amount of “ahh.”  Available in three super yummy flavors, including Supermint, Mojito Mint and Pink Grapefruit Mint, these breathsprays provides 100% fresh breath, 100% of the time. Use, share and never worry about leaks or spills: its unique twist, click-and-lock function keeps things fresh, fun and tidy. 


The Duff: Hits theaters in 2015 - watch the teaser trailer below!

Bianca (Mae Whitman) is a content high school senior whose world is shattered when she learns the student body knows her as 'The DUFF' (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) to her prettier, more popular friends (Skyler Samuels & Bianca Santos).  Now, despite the words of caution from her favorite teacher (Ken Jeong), she puts aside the potential distraction of her crush, Toby (Nick Eversman), and enlists Wesley (Robbie Amell), a slick but charming jock, to help reinvent herself. To save her senior year from turning into a total disaster, Bianca must find the confidence to overthrow the school's ruthless label maker Madison (Bella Thorne) and remind everyone that no matter what people look or act like, we are all someone's DUFF.

Cast: Mae Whitman, Robbie Amell, Bella Thorne, Bianca Santos, Skyler Samuels, Nick Eversman, Alison Janney, Romany Malco, Ken Jeong
Directed by: Ari Sandel
Written by: Josh Cagan (screenplay), Kody Keplinger (novel)
Producers: Susan Cartsonis, McG, Mary Viola
Genre: Comedy
Distributor: CBS Films


The debut collection features a "frame within a frame" technique, architectural shapes, prints, and various textures.

Blake has collaborated extensively on eyewear collections for John Varvatos, Carolina Herrera, Isaac Mizrahi, Behnaz Sarapfour, Hanae Mori, and Coach. He first gained international acclaim as the creator and designer of the exclusive KATA Eyewear brand. Blake's groundbreaking use of engineering and production techniques together with his highly curated eye reinvented the way eyewear design is approached today.

Retail price range: $599 - $650
Available at independent optical and lifestyle shops across the country starting December.

Celebrity Chef Maureen Petrosky’s Thanksgiving Celebration

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

I chatted with celebrity chef, Maureen Petrosky to get the skinny on how to dress up your Thanksgiving meal and decorations. Watch below!


The skinny on Creeds Collective Press & Media Preview

Candy WashingtonComment

Hi lovelies,

In anticipation of the upcoming two-month long Creeds Collective Pop-Up Shop, press, bloggers, celebrities, fashionistas, and other influencers were invited to a private preview of the shop on November 6th, in SoHo at the coveted 54 Crosby Street. The purpose of the event was showcase what we can expect from the pop-up shop once it opens its doors seven days a week from 11:00am – 7:00pm in November and December.

The fashion and store concept was developed by Creeds of Love’s Evie Phillips and Concept Collective’s Stephanie Halphen. Shop-goers can sample, try on, and find gifts for every person on their list in the 4,000-square-foot space that is exclusively carries 44 socially conscious fashion and lifestyle brands. Featured brands during the event included, Dharma Eyewear Co, Angela & Roi, Lauren Cecchi, H. Williams, Snowman NYC, Romy & Ray, White Faux Taxidermy, I Love My Type, THANN, Flickable, Soxiety, B+B Skin Lab, Grand Central Beauty, Jamberry, KIND Healthy Snacks, Mr. Ellie Pooh, PINCHme, Rosebud Perfume Company, SexyPop, and RumbaTime.

For more on the event of the season, in their own words:

As a precursor to everyone’s busiest season of the year, event guests were invited to relax and recharge with a makeup and braid bar presented by PRIV kept everyone warm and refreshed with some delicious chai tea–perfect for the cold, rainy day. Over at the nail bar, our guests enjoyed a selection of the season’s hottest colors for their Primp and Polish manicures. And for those who wanted a little sparkle in their night, ONLI Beverages was on hand to provide their delicious sparkling water varieties, including Hibiscus Pomegranate, Lemon Watermelon and Green Tea Lemongrass Mango.

Everyone knows shopping and bubbles are an excellent pair, no matter what time of day it is, which is why Cliffton Dry Cider was on deck to serve guests glasses of sparkling cider. Just in case any of the guests started to work up an appetite while shopping, Jala Bars supplied their delicious, frozen Greek yogurt bars to snack on. And since we wanted to keep attendees energized to shop the night away, Protein Bakery was happy to supply their protein-packed cookies.”

For a full list of the brands that will be featured during the 2-month residency, please visit the Creeds Collective website: www.creedscollective.com/brands.

Photo credit: Max Lipka of LUSHPOP productions