Ashley DeLarge

OOTD: Dressed-Down Dog Walking…

May 22, 2019May 28, 2019by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment

Good Morning and Happy “Hump Day”, everyone!

Although next Monday is the sort of unofficial “First Day of Summer” with Memorial Day, the past few days have been hot, dry, loaded with on/off thunderstorms- and super sunny- so I think it’s safe to say we may have skipped right over Spring this year in New England and just went straight for Summertime, instead.

It’s not that I mind, really- except that it makes dressing practical and comfortably a little tricky with rising temps and blustery winds whenever a storm rolls though. Luckily, I have a fail-proof set of Late-Spring-Early-Summer outfits for such occasions/forecasts- and I happened to be wearing one on a windier day earlier this week while I checked in on Oliver and took him for a walk.

The ensemble isn’t exactly groundbreaking- skinny jeans or Capri pants with a bright tank top, a lightweight cardigan and comfortable flats/sneakers. It’s the essential errand/lounging/casual hang out outfit that women have made look sensational for years- but I’m quite fond of this outfit in particular because everything was purchased at Old Navy and cost under $60.

I just moved, guys- I need to grab good deals when I find them!

Also- I am absolutely feeling all things marigold lately- so this tank top is my new “gonna’ wear this ’til it gets destroyed” article of clothing.

And you may not be able to see it in the brightness of these photos or because Oliver is just the cutest ever- but I found a new set of stacked bracelets I’ve fallen head over heels in love with courtesy of Pura Vida. This stack in particular is their 2019 collection, “Dreaming Outloud”- a Summer-inspired set of colors and charms (including a VW bus- my favorite!)

Pura Vida help generate jobs and income for artisans around the globe- while donating a portion of their proceeds to numerous charities worldwide. I love independent fashion and accessory brands that give back and do something positive for their communities while simultaneously creating cute things I love to wear all the time- so I’ll be buying more in the future from this company for sure.

These bracelets will also- most certainly- make my “Favorites” list for May!

But that does it for me today, everyone. There’s lots of work to be done at the office this morning and lots of preparation to go into this upcoming long weekend! I’m looking forward to touching base on Friday before I head back into the city for Boston Calling!

Enjoy your Wednesday, everybody! Be good to one another!

– Ashley –

Home Sweet Home…

May 20, 2019May 26, 2019by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment

Good Morning and Happy Monday, everyone!

What a weekend it’s been- and what a morning so far! I know it’s early, but today was my first time commuting to work from my new apartment out in the Pioneer Valley and what a beautiful, serene journey it was! To be able to chase the sunrise with my coffee and some of my favorite music- and not have to deal with insane amounts of traffic- was ideal.

My move-in day was this past Saturday, and with the help of my brother Colby and my Uncle Mark- it was quick and painless. I am admittedly waiting on some new and vital pieces of furniture I ordered that are still being made/processed and shipped- like a bed frame, a night table, a sofa and a little bookcase- but I anticipate their arrival at the end of the month and until then I have enough to get by and remain comfortable.

I had wanted to wait until my apartment was fully furnished before I shared pics- but I’ve just been so excited about the space and about being in a part of New England I adore that I just couldn’t wait! Between the oak floors, the high ceilings with the exposed beams- and the large windows that surround my bedroom and kitchen- I’m in a rustic, quaint heaven right now!

The most difficult thing about this move, however- was that I couldn’t take Oliver with me. And, since I’m now living alone- I didn’t think it would be fair to him to bring him to a new, unfamiliar place and then leave him for hours at a time throughout the day while I went to work. Instead, I entrusted him in the care of my mother (who watches him for me during the day anyway) with the agreement that I would come and see him for a little while every day.

It’s only been a day or two but I’m already looking forward to walks, tail wags and cuddles during my lunch break in a few hours!

Also- how cute are those flowers my mom (and “Oliver”) got me for my new place? They’re going to get plenty of sunlight. That’s for sure.

I’m still in the process of unpacking and getting acclimated, and I hope to have more photos to share soon- especially once the rest of my furniture arrives- but so far, I’m loving this place!

A little later on this week I’m sharing some more of my favorite pieces from my Spring wardrobe- and then this coming Friday I’m getting ready to head back into the city for Boston Calling weekend! I’m so excited to get back to work with Indie617 after a couple weeks’ hiatus and to check out some incredible artists, vendors- and awesome local food!

I’ll have plenty of updates along the way- so be sure to check back!

Here’s wishing you all a wonderful start to your week!

– Ashley –

My Spring Makeup Routine!

May 17, 2019May 24, 2019by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment

Good Morning and Happy Friday, everyone!

I had wanted to post this past Wednesday, but after my flight was delayed on Tuesday- resulting in me getting home from Vegas much later than expected- I spent the day sleeping in and getting the last of my things packed for tomorrow’s big move. I keep trying to psyche myself up by saying I’m ready and haven’t forgotten anything- but I’m admittedly pretty nervous and I’m 99.999% sure I’m leaving something behind and won’t think of it until three or four days from now.

I digress- it’s the weekend and as busy as it’s going to be- I wanted to share something light and upbeat. I’m not talking about recipes or off-the-wall New England destinations this time- but my Spring makeup routine! These are the products I’ve been wearing non-stop since mid-March- and are going to carry me into the Summer and all the heat and humidity that comes with it!

I’ve done similar posts like this during past seasons, of course. For some quick links to check ’em out- here you go!

But enough delays. Let’s get on with it! From left to right in the image above:

Sephora Collection 10 Hour Wear Perfection Foundation: I love my Fenty foundation in the Fall and the Winter- but come Spring when my skin varies back and forth between being dry and oily and back again- I need something a little less heavy, still oil & fragrance free- and with a natural finish so I don’t look overly made up if I start to sweat.

This medium-coverage, lightweight foundation from Sephora keeps my skin looking and feeling flawless, lasts for hours- and is reasonably priced- making it my must-have this time of year when I want to look natural without breaking the bank.

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser/Concealer: On the days, like Wednesday- when I’m feeling overly tired and the dark circles under my eyes aren’t doing me any favors- I slather on this concealer to smooth my skin, brighten my complexion and hide any imperfections around my eyes and face if I’m seeing any redness or blemishes after a rough couple of nights.

I love the longevity and the lightweight feel of this concealer- which blends easily and dries to a natural, “am I wearing makeup or not?” finish. Best of all? It’s only $10.00

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

Sephora Collection Matte Perfection Powder Foundation: I don’t use this powder all over my face since it would undoubtedly make me look a little too chalky- but I do apply it in the mornings after I apply my liquid makeup as a shine reducer in my T-Zone and it does wonders! The formula, much like Sephora’s liquid foundation- is lightweight and has a natural finish- so my pores never get clogged and I never look like I’m wearing a ton of makeup.

I carry this powder with me for touch-ups throughout the day, as well- and it’s a life-saver on more hot and humid days for sure!

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

ModelCo Eyeshadow Trio in “Mykonos”: Last Spring, I was all about lavender liners and baby pink blush- however this year I’ve been gravitating towards deeper, darker colors for my eyes and lighter, more golden hues for my cheeks. This trio from ModelCo, which I had received in a subscription box a couple of months ago- has quickly become one of my favorites- particularly the peachy highlighter shade and the deep rosy/red color for my crease.

This trio has a subtle amount of shimmer, is easy to blend, and makes my blue eyes pop when I blend the colors together for an all-day look that’s suitable for my office or out on the town. I’ll have some swatches below!

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

Wander Beauty “Mile High Club” Mascara: I finally took a break from my Kush mascara and have fallen in love with a light, lengthening and volumizing mascara (in pretty gold packaging!) from Wander Beauty. Cruelty and Gluten-free, this mascara glides on easily with a brush that hugs every lash- coating them with a conditioning formula that softens as it gives my eyes a fun, flake-free bit of flair.

I can also attest to it’s staying power- since I’ve been doing my fair share of crying while I’ve been packing in recent days/weeks. It stays put!

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

Benefit Cosmetics “Dandelion Twinkle” Powder Highlighter: I’ve been skipping rosy blushes this time of year for a more subtle, nude shimmer/shine across my cheekbones. I am in love with this pretty little powder from Benefit- which gives me a beautiful glow that really shines when the light hits it right- and fits right in my pocket!

On days when I’m in a rush, I also like to apply a little bit of this by my brow bone, down the bridge of my nose and my chin- to give me a sunkissed look without the harmful UV rays! There’s a swatch below!

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

Sephora Lip Stories in “Oui!”: And finally, to finish off a face of Spring-inspired makeup- I swipe on some of this satin-finished dusty rose lipstick from Sephora (only $8!) that softens my lips and makes them look fuller and plumper. I’m addicted to this long-lasting formula- which doesn’t get dry or patchy as the day wears on- and requires only minimal reapplications from time to time!

And of course, I have a swatch below!

[ MORE INFO HERE ]

And as promised, here are the swatches!

I know that once Summer is here- I’ll be incorporating a lot more neon and bright colors into my wardrobe and makeup- since I’ve already started collecting some! I can’t wait to share it!

But that does it for me today. It’s my half day at work- and then tomorrow I am off to begin my new life in the Pioneer Valley! I’ll be back next week with some updates from the new apartment, a peek into my newly renovated closet- and maybe a recipe or two to share from my spacious kitchen that I’m excited to cook in!

Here’s wishing you all a wonderful and safe weekend ahead!

– Ashley –

Notes From Slay-Cation II…

May 13, 2019May 21, 2019by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment

Good Morning and Happy Monday, everyone!

While my last update had seen me in San Diego, preparing to pack up and head out of SoCal after a fun couple of days- I’m happy to report I made it through the desert unscathed (and not sunburnt!) and am presently in Northern Las Vegas soaking up the sun, palm trees, good food and air conditioning.

I really, really love air conditioning, you guys.

I leave for home tomorrow morning to return to work and the pre-move craziness that awaits me this coming weekend- but for now I’m simply enjoying my last full day here. This trip to Vegas actually marks the first time where I haven’t been to the strip, gone gambling, or even drank alcohol (…yet.) and it’s been really relaxing and refreshing.

I’ve been spending my time locally in Henderson with Kelsey, her husband, and their little girl- going out to eat, running errands, binge-watching TV and vegging out- which is exactly what I’ve needed to give my batteries a boost since I’ve been so utterly overwhelmed and exhausted as of late.

No late nights, or forced obligations, or an over-packed schedule- just total calm and peace and good company.

Kelsey leaves for a work trip to Dallas later on today, which means I may venture out into the city for a little while just for the fun of it. I’m thinking of paying Fremont Street a visit- or maybe heading out a little further into the desert to take some more photos of the stunning scenery. It’s still early here- so we’ll see where the day takes me!

I’m off to get ready for the day, pack my suitcase for tomorrow, and rest up for the journey home- but I’ll be back on Wednesday with some more photos and updates!

Enjoy the start to your week, everyone. Here’s hoping it’s a good one!

– Ashley –

Notes From Slay-Cation…

May 10, 2019May 19, 2019by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment

Good Morning (it’s still the A.M. where I am) and Happy Friday, everyone!

I’m updating Blondie Birdie from a broken tablet, courtesy of Logan Airport’s TSA staff who felt it was necessary to not only empty nearly all of the contents of my liquid toiletries from my checked bag all over my clean, dry clothes- but also crack the screen of one of my most important electronics, too- before they carelessly tossed it back into my suitcase.

I digress, that huge inconvenience aside- I’m enjoying the last of my time here in San Diego before I return to Las Vegas a little later on this afternoon with Kelsey. While my previous trip to Southern California last Fall had been disastrous to the point where I had debated returning here this time around for fear it would be just as awful- I’ve actually been having a wonderful time- AND I’ve been able to relax like a real, true vacation for once!

The journey here was a long one, but the view sure was nice. After picking me up in Vegas Wednesday morning- Kelsey and I made a quick stop for breakfast at our favorite spot further up the strip, Peppermill– before we packed up our bags and her daughter and started on the long, six hour drive through the desert to San Diego.

I had forgotten that this time of year is typically referred to as “Grey May” in Southern California, so as the hours ticked by on the road and the sun gradually vanished while we drove- being overtaken by clouds and fog- I knew it was going to be a chilly stay. Admittedly, the temperatures here have been considerably better than they have been back home- so I can’t say I minded much. San Diego is beautiful any time of year, really.

And one of the perks of this trip is that it has been all about food. Kelsey and I have been trying new places around Downtown San Diego- including a French Toast sampler from Breakfast Republic and a blondie mocha latte from Spill The Beans Coffee.

We have a few foodie places we’re going to be hitting up once we return to Vegas, as well- so I’m sure I’ll be taking more photos along the way.

Of course, our main reason for this little pilgrimage to and from the desert was to see White Lies last night at The Music Box. We love the band so, so much- but their Boston show had sold out and the San Diego one was the closest to Kelsey- so I opted to fly out to see it with her and get away from work for a few days!

The show was incredible, and the band sound just as fantastic live as they do on their albums- which is a rarity these days. We had the perfect setup from a balcony above the stage where we could see and hear everything crystal clear. It was AWESOME.

Post-show, we made a quick stop at Gaslamp Pizza (the best pizza you’ll ever have in SoCal- and right around the corner from the hotel we’ve been staying) before we passed out. I think it’s safe to say we’re officially in our thirties now. There’s no after-parties anymore. At least not any I can stay awake for!

But we’re getting ready to head out for brunch/lunch and pack up the last of our things for our drive this afternoon. I’ll be updating through the weekend on my INSTAGRAM, as usual- and then I’ll be back on Monday with some more recaps from the journey before I return home Tuesday evening.

Here’s wishing you all a wonderful weekend ahead! Have fun!

– Ashley –