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25 Jan

Posted at 05:41h in Beauty, Fashion, Home

After writing my Best Buys of 2020 post, I of course started to think of what is on my current wish list. This year I really want to try for quality over quantity. I also have a deal with myself right now that until I clean out my closet and kitchen, no new things! Sometimes you have to be reminded of what you have before you start thinking about the things you need next. But to motivate me, I have these things awaiting me in all my carts.

  1. There was way more cozy couch time in 2020 and I think I am going to leet that ride into 2021 with this weighted blanket $100
  2. I have a lot of different shearling boots, but Uggs are really the reigning champion of coziness. This pink pair is also just plain fun $170
  3. My current dinner routines could use an update and little more health, so this cookbook that I see everyone referencing on insta looks like the perfect fit $28
  4. A happy, soft sweater can really be the winter closet work horse that you reach for over and over. This stripe one is so cute $295
  5. My stemless wine glasses need an upgrade and nothing is more beautifully classic than a set of these La Rochere Tumblers $54 for 6
  6. I am late to the instant pot game and this one is also the device of the moment, an air fryer $179
  7. What to wear on house showings can be boring and this dress is at the top of my work wear wish list $228
  8. Pretty handpainted dinner plates seems necessary to switch up the 1000 meals I plated on white plates in the last year $38
  9. I have been eyeing this BeautyBio set for awhile. I love the idea of getting my products to help my skin even more. $329
  10. Slip on cozy shoes are all we need and these are cute enough to wear anytime, plus make me smile $295
  11. A stack of fun custom bangles seems like a bright spot for 2021 $62

xo

Erin

19 Jan

Posted at 06:24h in Beauty, Fashion, Home

Assessing what I bought and what I actually used is actually a really good way to understand how better to spend money each year. Keep in mind that in this space we are talking about the non-essentials, so any fun things we can buy are always a blessing. There were certainly many buys that I wish I could take back since they did not have longevity or I did not use/wear how I thought I would (hello cocktail dresses), but there were a few things that I would consider my best buys. This is always helpful since I can try to avoid spending Amy more money on those things I could have done without!

  1. I tried ALL the sweatsuits, and I mean ALL. The Aritizia Cozy AF Boyfriend sweat pant and crewneck sweatshirt is the BEST. Soft, thick, and a great price tag.
  2. I am 4 months into my GOOP vitamin regime and though I cannot say I notice some giant difference, I do notice when I am NOT taking them. The packs make it very convenient to take a bunch of vitamins I know are doing my body good.
  3. Adding in the Vintners Daughter Essence to my morning routine has made a huge change in my skin. This is an investment that I do not mind making because it paired with the Serum is magic. I notice clearer, toned, and more moisturized skin.
  4. This puff sleeve cotton sweater was worn 100 times. I wore it with sweat pants, with leggings, with jeans, and skirts. It tucks in nicely, but also falls to a flattering hip length. It is soft, does not pill, and does not cost a fortune.
  5. I know I have become house dress obsessed, but honestly I reached for this dress SO many times. I for sure want a couple more in different lengths because even though it is expensive, I wear it all the time. There is something SO luxurious about slipping on a silky caftan at the end of the day.
  6. These rope baskets were an Amazon find that I never knew I needed until I had them. I use them as catch alls in the house, for gift giving, for floral arrangements, and toy bins. I love them so much and keep ordering more!
  7. I gifted myself this rattan side table and I just worship it. It makes me smile every day and is just a happy little table. Contact me for ordering
  8. I have been on the hunt for a cute pair of undies that are not grandma-esque, have coverage, are invisible under clothing, and wash well. Basically the holy grail. Once I found this pack I have been ordering on repeat.
  9. A friend found these body sleeping bags and I live in mine. With so many things outside these days and my kids wanting me to “watch them play” in the cold, it is essential.
  10. Never did I ever think I would be into a luxury hair product, but this scalp scrub shampoo is worth every penny. It gets my hair super clean and lathers like a dream, plus this one jar lasts forever.
  11. So while I am not giving up two pieces, I can appreciate a one piece much more these days. This simple black suit is AMAZING. It has a slight low cut and has an open back to show off just enough skin, while also not being high cut on the leg or letting your buns hang out (why does every suit do this now?!). Plus, the material is doubled for a great smooth, sucked in feeling.
  12. My favorite audio book of the year was Daisy Jones and Six. So much so I want to listen to it again. And my favorite hard back book of the year was The Dutch House. I ate it up in a few sittings (when timed allowed!) and got lost in the story and quite frankly the idea of this grand house.

xo

Erin

22 Dec

Posted at 07:00h in Beauty, Fashion, Gifts, Home

I had posted a few of the recipes I have planned for this week on my Instagram and it sounds like you all could use some ideas too. With my favorite cooking partner, my mom, finally here to visit we have a lot of catch up cooking to do. I love a cozy week with lots of new recipes with a sprinkling of the traditions we hold dear. Here are the recipes we have on the agenda:

Appetizers:

Salami & Provolone Phyllo Dough Rolls: Give me all the melty cheese in dough

Cacio e Pepe Puffs: My Mom said you can make in advance and freeze!

Roasted Shrimp Cocktail: We bought the Trader Joe’s Sweet Chili sauce to dip to switch it up

Entrees:

Skillet Roasted Chicken: My mom swears this is a crowd pleaser. This Half Baked Harvest one I made last week is also such a one pan winner.

Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Green Peppercorn Sauce: having a hard time find the peppercorns, so might just make it without!

Truffle Mash Potatoes: Truffle butter makes everything extra special

Traditional Meatballs with Arrabiata Sauce: A casual comfy meal on Christmas Day is my favorite since I will still be in pajamas

Ultimate Garlic Bread: Because that spicy sauce is going to need something to dip in it. Love the addition of lemon zest.

Mini Wedge Salad Platter: An elegant way to serve something with ranch all over it

Breakfast:

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Croissants: Stock up and make them all break, they are the best. You can find in the frozen food section and the plain mini ones are also perfection.

Sour Cream Waffles: These are sacred in our family. Dreamy is an understatement and perfect with bacon and coffee

Dutch Baby with Apples & Cinnamon: I have never made one and excited to! Or at least watch my mom do it ha (recipe from Modern Comfort Food, not available online)

Dessert:

Christmas Tree Cake: We always make a birthday cake for Jesus for Christmas Eve and this one looks so cute! (image above)

Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies: I just love a soft sugar cookie. Lucky for me, my mom is a great baker and I am a good taste tester.

 

Would love to hear any recipes you are excited to try too. As far as I am concerned we will keep this up until break is over so I need more ideas!

xo

Erin

09 Dec

Posted at 05:41h in Beauty, Fashion, Gifts, Home

It seems that everyone is wanting to think outside the box this year on gifting, which I love. And with so many small businesses trying to make the season extra brighter the options have gotten more exciting. I wanted to put a little list together that would have gifts for anyone on your list that you may not have seen yet. Hopefully this helps with the rest of that list you have going.

  1. A custom travel tote with packing blocks she can look forward to packing $175
  2. Faux Shearling clogs is the only shoe/slipper they need $29
  3. The crazy at home facial the internet raves about $29 or get the whole set
  4. Dinner for 6 from Momofuku to your door $169
  5. Super fun Blue Light Blocking Glasses that also give back $42
  6. A Gray Malin Amalfi coast puzzle to remind them of their travels $25
  7. The Tesla of razors $19
  8. Who doesn’t need a sherpa fur onesie?! $41
  9. A rad all blacked out watch $135
  10. A Masterclass subscription to learn chess, tennis skills, cooking with masters, and business classes with the best of the best.
  11. Father & Son Boomba sock sets for their stockings $64
  12. Keith Herring Domino sees for the gamers $40
  13. For the outdoorsy dude, a flask that is also a flashlight $95
  14. A custom whiskey barrel to elevate the bar $85
  15. A custom family tree would be just the sweetest $65
  16. A weekly news magazine for little inquiring minds $49 for 25 Issues

xo

Erin

29 Nov

Posted at 15:30h in Beauty, Fashion, Gifts, Home

I was seriously on the fence on doing any gift guides this year. I know you are all inundated with so many ads and guides and it can be so noisy. Also, gifting feels different this year to me. Do you think so too? If I had to guess everyone will be more focused on the littles joys of cookie baking and tree trimming and snuggle holiday movie time than lots of gifts. It just feels more like another lesson coming from this year that it is the moments that matter, not the things.

But I did hear from some of you that you still love a few ideas, especially for teachers, helpers, and loved ones you may not be seeing this year. So here is a little list of gifts that support small shops and retailers, which I am really trying to look to first before going to a large retailer.

And if there are any lists you would like to see, please tell me and I will put it together because I love ya! Here are all the gift guides from years past if you need it.

small business gift guide under $50
  1. These custom tree toppers are the most fun and come in different finishes $50
  2. I LOVE these super soft organic pajamas. Especially this little heart print that gives back to Baby2Baby. $52
  3. All of the best Glossier make up for $40! You get to pick all the colors too. I wear the cloud paint every day, my favorite.
  4. How cool is this custom one line portrait drawing? You can print it on anything and make their day. She does Pets too! $19
  5. A custom initial necklace with endless options is always a winner $23-$55
  6. How cute is this custom craft rainbow? $26
  7. Who wouldn’t adore a leopard 2021 Planner? This company makes so many pretty prints $23
  8. This luxurious and insanely good smelling lotion and body wash is the perfect set. $50 total for both
  9. File under the cutest gift that is the most functional. These sweet food storage covers are such a cute little gift for your foodie friend. $19
  10. Love these custom Lego Trays for easy moving around $38
  11. These ankle weights are on my list and this site gives back with every purchase of any item! Buying these provide a care package for a pediatric chemo patient. $40 Make sure to check out the entire site.
  12.  I am so into a signet ring and this one is perfect $50

xo

Erin

26 Oct

Posted at 07:00h in Home

Are you a Gywneth fan? Though I have certainly rolled my eyes over the years at some of her comments, her charm cannot be denied. I actually had a real life encounter with Mrs. Goop years ago in London. Her and Chris Martin were dining a table over from me and I tried to play it so cool (failed). She was gorgeous and glowing and I fell in love with her because she ordered pasta and drank her red wine with abandon. My dreams of talking to her died when I saw her speed off in her Prius, but in my head we we’re going to become best friends during a well timed bathroom break.

In my mind we sort of are friends. She is the gal I look to for great advice, wellness secrets, and clean beauty options that actually work. I have fallen for the whole Goop’d up world she is creating, should I be proud or worried? ha

The girl knows how to market as well. Since quarantine started a billion months ago, #selfcare was one of the most trending topics. And with good reason as we had more time to reflect on how we take care of ourselves and the products we use. I figure a few swap outs to cleaner items cannot hurt and luckily I tried some things that are incredibly effective.

best and worst products goop
  1. I am on my third round of the Vintner’s Daughter Essence & Serum. It is pricey, but worth every penny. My skin drinks it up in the morning and brings  a glow no other cream has given me.
  2. I just ordered a second jar of this Body Butter. My only complaint is that it is pricey for the amount and I went through it fast. I love that it helps with skin tightening and absorbs so well.
  3. I truly love a bath now (can’t believe I am saying that!) and this soak is legit. I use it every once in awhile when I really need to relax.
  4. A splurge you will not regret is a silky, long Natalie Martin maxi dress. I live in mine and love how luxurious it feels even when I am just puttering around the house.
  5. This Nécessaire body wash sells out all the time. And while I liked it, it did not wow me enough to order again.
  6. I ordered these pans for the “green” factor and the sweet color. They have been put to very good use and I want to up the ante and get these next.
  7. This is by far the best sweatshirt I have bought in awhile, but it is sold out. This or this is a great alternative. Saving my money for the sweater version.
  8. I have never taken vitamins in my life, but the description for these got me and felt like the timing was right. I plan on ordering again but can’t say I see any significant changes a few weeks in. I also like that it comes in a little packet as I would never take these many pills from different jars. So lazy!
  9. GP swears by this instant facial and while I liked it, I did not reorder. I use a different exfoliant every day so it was kind of over kill. But I would try if you are looking for one.
  10. These zit stickers are SO good for those painful underground chin zits. You have to use it right when you start to feel one coming, but I swear it helps.
  11. I still do not understand the body brush. Plus it kind of hurts!
  12. This body lotion was a bust. Not moisturizing for me and I did not love the smell.
  13. I wear an eye mask every night, but this slip one is the nicest I have used by far. I would give this a reorder, it is just a little bot more snug than I am used to.
  14. I LOVE this sweet lip pot. The color is perfection and it is ultra moisturizing.

xo

Erin

12 Oct

Posted at 06:57h in Home

This Fall has already been bananas beautiful here. And though I swore I was going to hold off on buying anything new until I clean my closet, a Shopbop sale always gets me. I love them to stock up on favorites like undies and pajamas, but the Fall sale is the best for coats and knits. I rounded up all my picks (Use Code Fall20 at checkout) and am so happy to do so on my new site!! Make sure to add me to your favorites page and welcome to a whole new Imperfect Polish! xo

Shopbop Sale picks
  1. A super soft fleece / 2. Faux Leather Cropped Pants / 3. Shearling lined sneakers / 4. The best puff sleeve sweatshirt / 5. A silky PJ set  / 6. Coolest red sunglasses / 7. Sweet heart earrings  / 8. A perfect puffer (also comes in black) / 9. A knit LBD / 10. My favorite high waisted jeans / 11. A plaid dress for anything dressy / 12. Ribbed leopard leggings for workouts / 13. A cute sweater dress / 14. Pink retro sneakers / 15. The softest faux fur jacket / 16. Love this leopard dress / 17. A fine knit cardigan coat / 18. The perfect oversized sweater (also in black) / 19. Clogs to slip on all Fall

02 Sep

Posted at 00:57h in Home

There is no doubt that whatever “Back to School” looks like in your house, it is not the normal routine. I feel such deep empathy for all the Moms out there trying their best to make their new realties function. Hard decisions are being made, jobs are being left behind, mothering has turned into a lot different scene all day, and frustration doesn’t even begin to cover it.

What I do know is that Moms are what makes this world go round and they have the best ideas on how to make that world a bit more organized, a bit more sane, and a bit more safe. So besides the obvious choice for back to school supplies, a case of your favorite wine, I wanted to round up ideas I have gathered from some very smart ladies and what might help you!

1. A rolling cart for all the supplies that can be hidden away when not needed. / 2. The perfect bin  or all their supplies and papers / 3. My kids have loved these masks / 4. Chic stick up white board weekly schedules / 5. A pinboard for their desk to make it their own / 6. Wireless headphones that have a built in mic / 7. A retro way to keep the kids focused  fidget with while on zooms / 8. A nice deep bucket  hat is easy to take from room to room with supplies / 9. Mask lanyards to keep them around their neck / 10. A bouncey chair  o keep them occupied during zooms / 11. An iPad stand that adjusts / 12. Tie dye masks that comes individually wrapped / 13. A double sided, easy to use anywhere, white board / 14. Blue light blocking glasses that come in lots of colors / 15. I LOVED a daily planner! / 16. A fun color coded way to organize all those papers / 17. A desk mat that comes in many colors