February 2017 Favorites: Love Yourself Edition

My monthly favorites always feature things I love, but this month I'm featuring things that help me love myself.  I hope some of these items will give you ideas of things to indulge in.

Dancewear

Deco Dancewear short skirt

The classic short pull-on skirt from Deco Dancewear is probably my favorite skirt in my entire dance wardrobe.  It's longer in the back, shorter in the front, and slightly floaty around the hips.  No matter your body shape, skirts cut like this are universally flattering because they provide coverage and the cut makes the legs appear longer.  Different colors and prints are available each season (I have a white skirt with lavender and black floral print), so you'll be sure to find a look you love.  The only small negative is that because these skirts are handmade to order, they take a while to ship and patterns sell out quickly.  However, it's worth it in the long run because the products are amazing.  Also, read the size chart carefully before ordering-many sizes are available to work for different bodies.  Those with a waist size of 24" or smaller will be best suited in a children's size.  (Available from decodancewear.com, but wait a month or two before ordering.  The spring collection's release will result in a ton more choices!)

Clothing

Lively bras

Lively is an online retailer that sells bras and underwear.  I love the mesh trim bralettes for everyday wear.  I have a very small bra size (band size is mostly the issue-my rib cage is about 25 inches arounsd), so it can be hard to find options that are comfortable, cute (alone and under clothes), durable, and supportive.  Lively's products meet all of these requirements, they're fairly priced ($35 each, cheaper if you buy more at a time), and the size charts are easy to follow.  They even include images of models with different bra sizes wearing each style.  I love that Lively is committed to providing comfortable underwear for women with different body types.  There are many styles available, including some with underwire, to flatter every figure.  (Available from wearlively.com)

Makeup

Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey

This lipstick looks scary in the packaging, but it's actually pretty neutral.  It's more like a tinted balm than an actual lipstick; the color is very sheer and is flattering to all skin tones.  This deep purple of the product provides a wash of mauve color and a shiny, moisturizing finish when applied to the lips.  Whether you're headed to an audition, business meeting, or just to school or out for errands, this product will absolutely help you feel naturally beautiful.  Clinique is free of fragrances and other irritants, so even the most sensitive skin should be ok with products from the brand.  (Available at Sephora stores, sephora.com, and some department store makeup counters)

Skincare

J One Jelly Pack Vita sheet mask

I've tried a lot of different sheet masks (I aim to use one each week during "home spa time"), and this one is definitely my favorite.  One mask costs $6, and I see better results with this product than with masks like those from Tatcha and SK-II (which cost $20+ per mask).  Each individual mask packet comes with a sheet mask, which I leave on cleansed skin for about 20 minutes, and a little sample of J One Jelly Pack, which is a clear moisturizing gel, to apply afterward.  I see skin that looks brighter and more moisturized with every use.  (Available at glowrecipe.com)

Food

Odwalla Original Superfood

I've always been a big juice drinker, and green juice is my favorite way to start my morning.  I've tried many varieties (including making my own), but this one is my favorite.  To me, it tastes deliciously like peaches (not like green veg at all).  The ingredients include many fruits, green veggies, and green algae to nourish the body.  Try a glass before breakfast to supercharge with essential micronutrients so you can tackle your day with maximum energy.  (Available at most grocery stores and health food stores.)