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My Ultimate Closet Hacks to Maximize Space

My Ultimate Closet Hacks to Maximize Space

by | May 9, 2020 | Fashion

Today, I’m sharing my ultimate closet hacks to maximize space and care for your clothes.

If you didn’t already know, I´m a big fan of shopping from your own closet and being creative with the clothes you have. The downside of shopping from your own collection, is the issue of storage. It´s meant I´ve gotten quite creative over the years, so let´s take a peak what´s inside. 

 

Transform your closet with these storage solutions

 

If you ask me, the closet is prime real estate, so when we were building our place in Montana, I took the opportunity to create a space I loved. I appreciate I´m blessed in the closet department now, but it wasn’t always that way. Whatever the size of your closet, a good storage solution, is a good storage solution, and are some of my favorites that I still use to this day. 

My Ultimate Closet Hacks to Maximize Space

 

 

Office File Boxes

 

You might think they´re out of place here, but these clear file boxes from Target are handy and a great way to utilize shelf space. I line them up and store scarves inside. The clear acrylic is also very browser friendly.

files boxes from target for scarfs
files boxes from target for scarfs 2

Drawer Dividers

 

Drawer dividers are simple, yet effective. I use them for sock, underwear, and accessory drawers. Drawer organizers allow you to make the most of your space, stay organized and easily swap items in or out as the seasons change.

 

 

Pull Out Rods

 

Pull out rods are easy to install and a great space saver. I like to use them for belts, as they´re easily accessible and just as easily tucked away again.

Closet Hacks Belt Storage

Stagger Hanger Clips

 

Stagger the clips on your trouser hangers, to maximize hanging room. You´ll be surprised at the difference this little adjustment makes.

How to Maximize Hanging Space

Corral Old Hangers

 

If you´ve got unused hangers, don´t just leave them hanging there taking up space. Instead, corral them into old boxes, so they´re ready for when they´re needed again.

Closet Hacks remove unused hangers
Store hangers in boxes to maximize hanging space

Closet Hacks for Shoes and Accessories

 

We´ve maximized your drawer, shelf and hanging space, now onto the shoes and accessories.

 

 

Use Trays for Odds and Ends

 

There is often wasted space below hanging items, so make the most of this with trays and boxes. It´s a great way to gather up the odds and ends to keep them organized.

Use hanging space below clothes
Use trays to store accessories

Shoe Storage Solutions

 

A simple bookshelf is a great storage solution for shoes. Display them with the left toes facing out to your closet and the right toe facing back, and you´ll fit an extra pair of shoes on each shelf.

 

 

Storage Solutions for Purses

 

The perfect way to store your purse depends on the size of it. Larger purses should be stored hanging, to keep the bottoms from creasing. I have an adjustable display rack, that works perfectly.

For smaller purses I use an acrylic filing system, which you can pick up from any office store.

store small bag in filing rack
store small bag in filing rack

Bags and Hats

 

Maximize space by hanging bags and hats on a peg. No need to take up hanging room inside your closet, instead attach them to the outside of your cabinetry.

So, that rounds up my ultimate closet hacks to maximize space and care for your clothes. Enjoy transforming your closet.

 

Until the next time…

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Covid 19 Changing the Face of Fashion: The winter of our discontent

Covid 19 Changing the Face of Fashion: The winter of our discontent

by | May 3, 2020 | Fashion

It only takes a quick scroll through Instagram to see that the Covid 19 pandemic is already changing the face of fashion. Our feeds are peppered with sweat sets, lounge wear and the newest addition, face masks.

Even at this stage, a shift in the fashion industry is apparent, but what is next? I want to explore how the future of fashion might change in light of this pandemic, which in the US at least is turning out to be thankfully much less than we had planned; but much more than we expected from an economic standpoint. So, what does this mean?

 

 

What We have Learned

 

This has been a time for reflection, assessment and thought. A new normal will emerge, and we are all part of its creation, so what have we learned?

 

About who we are: Do we want to be independent or be led in our lives

About our joint Commitment: How we join together and follow rules

About our Ingenuity: How we work to solve problems

About our Independence: How we define and defy authority

About our Security: how we buy into fear and deal with stress

 

In the end, history will show us how we handled this challenge, but one thing we know for sure we will have more to look back on you the next time.

The New Face of Fashion

 

How will fashion change? None of us really know, but here are some thoughts…

Quality over quantity. We will buy less but spend more on higher quality staples.

 

Fashion trends will slow down and be swapped for minimalism, capsule dressing and classic styles.

 

Will we see a rise in digital stylists, as shoppers seek advice from a socially safe distance?

 

As a nod to social distancing, will designers be playing around with hats, masks and capes?

 

The fashionable masks and gloves industry, here to stay? It looks that way.

It was well said by Angelo Flaccavento about the fashion industry; “this crisis is an opportunity to edit down the superfluous, to regain our long-lost soul “.

Un-Masking Creativity

 

If there is one fashion item to come out of the Covid 19 pandemic and define the aesthetic around the world, it´s the face mask. It looks like fashionable face masks are destined to become part of everyday fashion and we´re already seeing designers releasing their creative, revamped versions.

 

I am not a fan of being muzzled, so if I´m wearing a mask, it´s got to be a pretty one.

I´ve seen some gorgeous creations by Denver designer, Brooks Ltd. and there´s a beautiful face mask collection from Curriedmyrrh. I showed them off on a fun-filled day with my photographer, the talented HKCamerface, exploring the lakebed, discovering an abandoned Teepee and having lots of fun whilst, of course, maintaining social distancing.

These women, and so many others, have shone bright during these times and I have loved seeing the creativity, the invention, the resilience, the support, the beauty, the passion and the love from our fellow females. Thank you.

DIY No Sew Face Mask

 

If you haven´t had a chance to buy a face mask yet, you can DIY solution from home. We found this mask tutorial online and gave it a go for fun. Oh, the things you do for the Gram! HKCameraface and I had such a laugh.

My Attempt – Oh how we laughed

Not a fan of the plastic wallet visor? Here is another no sew face mask option, with a video walk through; all you´ll need is a scarf.

A New Normal

 

Covid 19 is changing the face of fashion and the industry’s reaction to the pandemic is quite apparent, but none of us know what the long-term future holds. I for one am taking positive lessons from this, holding onto what is important and looking forward to seeing the new normal we create from here.

 

I hope you enjoyed this share. It´s some fashion for thought. Until the next time….

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Zinc supplements for women over 50 60 cover

Time for a Re-Zinc: Are Zinc Supplements Necessary?

It´s time for a re-Zinc: Are Zinc supplements necessary?

It´s time for a re-Zinc: Are Zinc supplements necessary?

by | Apr 30, 2020 | Wellness

At the start of this pandemic, my husband picked us up some zinc supplements from the drug store. They´re known to aid our immune system and recovery, so I´m sure others did the same, but it got me to thinking; are zinc supplements necessary or can we consume enough zinc through diet alone?

 

A Bit About Zinc

 

Our body does not produce zinc naturally, so we must obtain it from supplements or through our diet. This is quite surprising, considering it´s present in cells throughout our body and is essential to many of our vital functions.

In the US, the recommended dietary allowance of zinc is 8 milligrams per day for women and 11 milligrams per day for men. We can choose to take a supplement like this one, from Nature’s Bounty, or we can obtain the zinc we need naturally, by eating a varied and healthy diet.

DISCLAIMER: Recommended levels of zinc are lower when pregnant or breast feeding so always consult a healthcare professional.

 

I´m always in favor of the healthy, most natural option, so I got my research head on and this is what I found.

Zinc-rich Foods

 

Here are the best foods we can eat to ensure we are getting the levels of zinc our body needs each day.

Nuts

 

Eating nuts, such as pine nuts, cashew nuts and almonds, helps to boost your daily zinc intake.

If you´re looking for a nut that is high in zinc, cashews or pine nuts are a good choice. Toast them and sprinkle over a salad, add to a stir fry or grab a handful and enjoy as a snack.

A one ounce serving of cashews or pine nuts includes 15% of your daily recommended value of zinc.

Lentils and Legumes

 

Beans and lentils are a great source of zinc, as well as fiber and plant-based protein. They´re also incredibly versatile. Cook up some tacos, make a curry or blitz some humous and you´ll be well on your way to reaching your daily recommended levels of zinc.

Just one cup of lentils, provides 20% of your recommended daily intake of zinc.

A ¼ cup of humous equates to 8% of your daily recommended value of zinc.

 

 

Hemp Seeds

 

Hemp seeds are high in zinc, fiber, iron, and healthy fats, which we love. Just two tablespoons of hemp seeds provide us with 20% of our daily recommended intake of zinc.

Crush and season into a pesto paste, add to a smoothie or sprinkle over your salad for an extra daily boost.

Shellfish

 

Shellfish is generally a healthy source of zinc, but oysters contain particularly high levels. Just two oysters can provide your total recommended daily intake of zinc. It is also said to give your libido a little boost, or so the rumor goes.

Eggs

 

Eggs are known as being a good source of protein, but they´re also a great source of zinc. Just one egg provides 5% of your daily recommended zinc intake. Enjoy them scrambled, poached, over easy or added to a salad.

Dark Chocolate

 

And finally, the news many will be happy to hear; chocolate is good for you, or it can be. Good quality dark chocolate, with 70-85% coco solids, is high in zinc and antioxidants. Just one ounce of quality dark chocolate provides 8% of your daily recommended zinc levels. Now go enjoy.

I hope you found this share useful.

Will you be having a re-zinc? Are you a supplement taker or do you opt for zinc-rich foods instead?

Until the next time…

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DIY: The Ultimate Face and Body Oil

DIY: The Ultimate Face and Body Oil

by | Apr 22, 2020 | Skincare

Today on the Style Beyond Age blog we´re creating DIY the ultimate face and body oil. 

We’re all doing a little more DIY lately. From Dinner to entertaining to spa days, we have all have been asked to stay at home and do it all ourselves. Honestly, these last few weeks have been a refreshing change from our fast-paced, easy-access world that we live in. But we have all been missing the conveniences and joy of everyday life. Today, I’m going to share with you the recipe to my all-time favorite “Do It Yourself” face and body oil, which brings me joy every day!

 

I have always been an advocate of face and body oils. Regular old moisturizers have never really done it for me. They are filled with stabilizers to help their shelf-life and texture, along with a host of other ingredients that I don’t want to put on my most precious organ, my skin.

Make Your Own DIY Ultimate Face & Body Oil

 

Women have been making and using oils to moisturize their bodies for centuries. Applying body oil while you’re still wet helps seal in the moisture. Use this potion daily for ultra-hydrated and super glowy skin.

Uses: 

  • Press into body and face

  • Add to bath to help retain moisture

  • Makeup refresh; pat a little oil onto the skin over makeup to enliven your face and freshen your whole look.

I mix up the following ingredients in equal parts. This healing oil is a concentrated and potent formula; a little bit goes a long way! You can use it in the morning, at night, or both for dramatic results.

 

Rule of thumb, for every 1 ounce of oil you add 12 drops of essential oil. If you have sensitive skin, I suggest cutting the drops from 12 to 6 per 1 ounce. Make sure your oils are cold-pressed and organic. I love a combination of rose and lavender essential oils, but you can mix up your scent. I prepare my body using the Microdermamitt and then apply.

Benefits of Ingredients 

 

 

  • Jojoba seed oil: Jojoba is a healing and moisturizing oil that cleans and clears the skin penetrating deep into the tissues with molecules small enough to pass the dermal barrier. It is an unsurpassed skin conditioner as it contains no triglycerides, and it is shelf-stable, unlike coconut, almond, and grape seed oils. Jojoba also creates an environment unsuitable for infection and fungus.

 

  • Apricot seed oil: This oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins A C & E the three most important vitamins for combating free radicals in the skin from the effects of pollution and other environmental factors. It is full of antioxidants and is used in traditional Chinese medicine for inflammation, one of the primary reasons for skin distress and deterioration. As with Jojoba, apricot seed oil absorbs quickly into the skin, and it’s never greasy.

 

  • Avocado oil: This oil is packed with vitamins and other collagen-building amino acids. It will soothe and heal broken skin and increase epidermal elasticity for a firmer, more youthful appearance.

 

  • Rosehip seed oil: This is a superstar extract, rich with vitamins and will correct dark spots, reduce fine lines, treat eczema, and resolve scar tissue. It is anti-inflammatory and repairs the skin surface while restoring elasticity and protecting from environmental damage.

 

  • Pomegranate seed oil: Pomegranate is extremely high in Punicic acid which has been shown to significantly inhibit invasion of membranes by cancer cells. Although each of the critical fatty acids works synergistically in the pomegranate, which is why we use only the whole seed, punicic acid is the star is proven to have positive effects on several forms of cancer and all types of inflammation. Full of antioxidants that fight skin aging, this oil is also a potent source of Ellagic acid, another powerful anti-inflammatory.

 

  • Borage seed oil: This oil has the highest concentration of gamma-linolenic acid found anywhere in nature. It will improve or resolve eczema, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It will also address inflammation acute or chronic and heal dry, scaly skin with one application. The oil treats skin injuries and environmental damage, and it plays a crucial role in restoring the intracellular moisture barrier, which is the reason behind dry and damaged skin.

 

  • Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil: This oil is a miracle oil for reversing wrinkles, smoothing and firming skin texture, and diminishing age spots. This oil is also an effective treatment for rosacea, irritation, sunburn, and more. It is packed with vitamin C and fatty acids; this oil is a transformative and healing gift. Only the seed should be used since the berry does not possess these qualities.

 

  • Hyaluronic acid: A natural component of young skin, hyaluronic acid acts as a sponge that holds moisture within your tissue. Replenishing hyaluronic acid helps plump and firm the skin and give it flexibility and strength. It also creates a smooth barrier as it draws moisture from the air and seals it in to create a silky hydrating finish.

 

  • Coleus Forskohlii: Coleus is an aromatic herb that is antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-magnetic, and anti-inflammatory. It inhibits the growth of skin pathogens and prevents infection. It is both milder and more effective than Tea tree oil.

Essential oils:

 

 

  • Lemon essential oil is the ultimate skin lightener and brighter, it also helps to tighten sagging skin, and it can even help regulate oil production.

 

  • Orange essential oil is an effective anti-aging oil that increases collagen and blood flow, also an excellent antiseptic for oily skin types.

 

  • Lemongrass essential oil is a natural antiseptic and astringent; it can be tolerated on all skin types; leaves skin more even, brighter and glowing.

 

  • Lavender essential oil is an all-around great pic for an essential oil to use on your skin. It is calming, gentle, and nourishing. Lavender oil can reduce the appearance of blemishes and give your skin a youthful glow. The oil can also help you if you are prone to skin irritation or sunburns.

 

  • Tea tree essential oil is nature’s little miracle. Use this remedy on bug bites or small breakouts. This oil is a natural anti-microbial, so it kills bacteria that could cause acne fungus and even dandruff.

 

  • Rose essential oil is a multi-purpose essential oil that can help nourish, hydrate, and heal your skin. Roses have been used for thousands of years to help moisturize and support the appearance of healthy, youthful-looking skin. Rose is the most valuable oil because it is distilled from the rose petal to release a delicate flower oil through steam gently.
Glass bottles to store your body oil: You´ve made your own face and body oil at home, so we need somewhere to store it. These small glass bottles work great as they can be cleaned and reused.

If You Prefer  

 

 

If doing-it-yourself doesn’t suit your needs, check out these oils instead.

DIY Ultimate Face and Body Oil 

 

I hope you´ve enjoyed this share. Let me know which combinations you try in the comments.

Until the next time…

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How to Care for your Winter Items before Putting them Away this Spring

How to Care for your Winter Items before Putting them Away this Spring

by | Apr 19, 2020 | Fashion

I have always washed, not dry cleaned, my sweaters and silks. Now with dry cleaners not readily available, a bit of old-fashioned care comes in handy. So, let´s discuss how to care for cozy winter items before putting them away for spring, and why it´s worth taking these extra steps.

 

Why its Worth Preparing Winter Clothes for Storage

 

Here in Montana, as winter draws to an end, it´s time to start getting my closet ready for spring. That means the sweaters are going into storage, but before I pack them away, they need a bit of TLC.

Of course, they already look clean, but taking this extra step ensures everything is in perfect condition when they are unwrapped again later in the year.

 

Our skin, our body oils, our perfume, deodorant, makeup and minute stains can build-up on our knits without us realizing. Over time, this residue fuses with the fibers and once that happens it can’t be undone. A little bit of closet care now, goes a long way and as we´re all DIY-ing it these days, I thought I´d share my process.

The Process & Products I Use

 

Correctly caring for wool, cashmere or angora sweaters requires some specialized products. I use Woolite, along with a great washer with a wool cycle; mine is an LG. The cycle is short and gentle, using the lowest possible spin speed and the coolest temperature.

Drying Your Delicate Winter Clothes

 

Once the wash is finished, it´s time to air dry. I recommend using a sweater drying rack, like this one from The Container Store. If you don´t have one, you can create one; a rack over a tub will do.  The key thing here is to keep it horizontal and avoid hanging your sweaters while they´re wet, as it can cause the fibers to stretch.

Once dry, hang them using a sturdy coat hanger and get ready for steaming.  There are lots of recommendations on how to do this best. I had some fun.

On Instagram

IRL (in real life)

Work with what you have, but the key things are to have your steamer or iron fully heated up before starting, always keep the steam source an inch or so from the garment and avoid any water dripping onto your clothes. My steamer is the Rowenta 1550W and my iron is the Rowenta Focus.

How to Store Your Winter Clothes

 

Now your winter clothes are ready for packing. Fold sweaters and hang dresses or coats, whenever possible.

And finally, a top tip is to store your winter clothes with a lavender pouch; it not only smells great; it also helps to repel moths.  I took the chance for some fresh air and gathered a bunch from the garden.

I hope you enjoyed this share; how to care for your winter items before putting them away this spring. If you have any other tips, I´d love to hear them. You can share them in the comments…

Stay home. Stay safe. Stay stylish.

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