NEW BEAUTY MUST HAVES

#1 TAN LUXE HYALURONIC TANNER || THIS STUFF IS SOOO GOOD! Ridiculous difference after once week of use! This HA serum hydrates and gradually bronzes the skin.

#2 PAT MCGRATH SUBLIME FOUNDATION || Beautiful on the skin – Medium coverage, luminous, long wearing… Cannot put it down!

#3 NUDESTIX TINTED BLUR STICK|| Go to cream contour – Impressed by the shade selection! Blurs imperfections while sculpting the face. A very soft, diffused effect.

#4 CHARLOTTE TILBURY FILMSTAR BRONZE & GLOW || Finally caved on this one – Regret not purchasing it sooner! The PERFECT golden shade (Using medium-dark)! Love for an all over bronze and simple eye shadow look. The highlighter is a gorgeous blush on lighter skin tones!

#5 PAT MCGRATH LIP GLOSS || Very luxurious! Smoothing, yet plumping – Stunning shades! (Subtle, non-annoying scent/taste) Current fav is ‘Love Potion.’

#6 NARS PRECISION LIP LINER || Specifically in Halong Bay – I have been searching FOREVER for this shade! It is the ideal nude/pink liner – Perfect for every day wear! Obsessed with it alone or layered with the Pat McGrath Lip Gloss. I still love my ‘Lip Cheat’ in Pillowtalk though!

What’s on your IT List?

XOXO

ELENI

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ALL ABOUT MY HAIR

Lately, I’ve been receiving LOTS of questions about my hair (and I LOVE it!) I wanted to quickly round up my go-to routine for the past few months. Like makeup, I’m constantly rotating two to three products. I recommend investing in quality items – I’ve learned my lesson over the years! I really do believe in switching things up or they won’t be as effective. Not to mention I love experimenting with new products!

SHAMPOO

CONDITIONER

HAIR OIL

HEAT PROTECTANT

DRY SHAMPOO

VOLUME

TEXTURE

STYLING TOOLS

XOXO

ELENI

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SIMPLE EVERY DAY MAKEUP TUTORIAL

It would be an understatement to say that I like makeup. I genuinely enjoy doing my makeup every single day. One of the questions I get asked most is what my daily makeup routine looks like.

I’m excited to share with you how I get ready on a typical morning! With a two hour commute and 11 hour work days, this quick and easy natural look can be done in 15 minutes!

THE BASE

Start off with a clean, moisturized face that’s been primed for makeup. As you probably know, my Magic Cream is a MUST day & night. As for a primer, the Touche Eclat Blur Primer is my holy grail.

FOUNDATION

Lately I am obsessed with mixing two lighter coverage foundations – Either one is amazing on its own!

All In One Glow

Alternatively, this Longwear Foundation ALWAYS gets the job done.

Typically I apply a small amount of product on the back of my hand – Using a damp beauty sponge, I gently press/bounce the product (using the flat edge/side of sponge) into the skin. BLEND. BLEND. BLEND.

CONCEALER

Next up is concealer. I use this Cakeless Concealer to camouflage darkness under the eyes, reduce redness around the nose, and to highlight the forehead/chin. Same as foundation, use the beauty sponge (narrow side) for flawless application. Ideal for makeup days on the go & touch-ups!

(Other TOP concealers are the Shape Tape & Soft Matte Concealer)

If you have time, setting the concealer with powder prevents creasing and movement throughout the day. I use a small, tapered brush to apply this perfecting powder. It is essential that you blend away any lines or creases prior to setting – Otherwise you will have the opposite effect!

BROWS

Before I start on my eyes, I fill in my brows. Makes the hugest difference! While I love a pomade pot product, when I’m in a rush, I reach for my trusty pencils.

I rotate between two:

Goof Proof Brow Pencil

Arch Brow Pencil

EYES

Depending on how much time I have, I will use one to three products for my eye look. The most basic being bronzer all over the lid – Alternatively, it makes the perfect crease/transition color! Using a fluffy blending brush, I use back and forth motions to apply the color to my crease.

For those long work shifts or a night out, I LOVE a cream shadow product. My absolute favorites are the Armani Eye Tints – Will not budge!! The MAC 217 is also an amazing blending brush.

Apply a shimmery shadow to the lid (layer over the eye tint) and the look is perfection! If you haven’t tried these Glitter and Glow Eyeshadows run out and grab it now! This MAC shader brush is great for packing on a glitter product.

Lastly, I will apply my favorite mascara! I may “tightline” – Line the upper waterline with a dark black liner to define and thicken the appearance of my lashes. Makes a dramatic difference!

BRONZER

I will ALWAYS apply a bronzer under my cheekbones, across my hairline, down the sides of my nose, and along the jawline to quickly contour and add warmth to the face. A large powder brush will apply the perfect amount of product. Again, BLEND BLEND BLEND.

THIS palette has a beautiful bronzer, blush, and highlight in one!

BLUSH

I most often use a peachy pink color! Some of my other favorites are:

Orgasm

Bounce and Blur

HIGHLIGHT (OPTIONAL!)

My favorite step!! Using a fan brush, I will apply highlight to the cheekbones, brow bone, inner corner of the eye, and cupid’s bow.

I have sooo many favs, but the ones I reach for most at the moment are:

Filmstar Glow

Cream Product – CT Beauty Wand is exceptional!!

LIPS

I am obssesed with lippies!! I am constantly rotating but love a “your lips but better” look for work. The formula of THIS lip balm is incredible. I also am obsessed with this matte lip pencil. SOO comfortable and lasts all day!

FINAL TOUCHES

I set my makeup by misting my face with a setting spray. Keeps makeup looking gorgeous without settling into fine lines, transferring, or fading.

You now have my go-to polished yet simple look! Would you be interested in seeing a video tutorial?? Let me know?!

If you try it out, I’d LOVE to hear your thoughts!! You can always reach out to me with any questions in the comments below or via DM on Instagram!

ELENI

XOXO

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MAKEUP OF THE DAY

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MAKEUP OF THE DAY TUTORIAL

#1 PRIMER

I ALWAYS go back to my YSL Primer – I have combination skin with texture & pores, and THIS primer really blurs imperfections and smooths the skin! I LOVE the consistency. It leaves skin feeling extremely soft but never tacky or greasy! I will also use a Primer Water if I’m really in a hurry or layer both to really lock everything in. Smells sooo good too!

#2 FOUNDATION

The past month I have been mixing my foundations daily – I love a full coverage look but like an added luminosity for a more “natural” finish.

My favorite applicators are my BeautyBlender & L’Oreal Sponge – I find myself reaching for the L’Oreal one most often.

My current favorite full coverage, long-wearing foundations are the Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, Forever Perfect Foundation, and All Hours Full Coverage Matte Foundation. As for medium coverage, this La Mer product blows me away EVERY time. In regards to the glow factor, I love the Flawless Filter and All-In-One Glow. I will typically mix the foundations on the back of my hand or place the luminous foundation directly on the areas I want to highlight. With a damp beauty sponge, I will gently “bounce” the product into the skin. Blend. Blend. Blend.

#3 CONCEALER

I have been really struggling with products creasing and settling into fine lines in the under-eye area – These concealers seem to never let me down! I always choose a product two shades lighter than my skintone/foundation – I swear by a bright under-eye area!

If dark circles are an issue, my favorite color corrector this Instant Eye Lift! I will correct the darkness first, then layer the concealer over this product. As for a cream brightener, the Prep & Primer Highlighter in Radiant Rose is a must! I will apply this highlighter after the concealer for additional brightness.

I set the concealed areas (always ensuring everything is thoroughly blended first) with this powder – It is very finely milled and will not accentuate imperfections! The KKW Beauty brightening powder is an amazing topper.

If I want to set the entire face (oily skin/12 hour work day), Studio Fix Powder is my go-to.

#4 BROWS

I have had my brows microbladed but have not been able to complete the process since I am pregnant. Therefore, I still use these products to fill in sparse areas:

#5 BRONZE/CONTOUR

I will have an upcoming post detailing my routine/products, but these items are on current rotation –

I cannot tell you how much I LOVE these contour wands! Soo easy to use and extremely blendable! Don’t forget to apply prior to setting the face with powder. (Head over to my Instagram (@elenipeczkowski) for a video of the highlighter)
I use this bronzer (drugstore alternative) to contour my face and nose (and to set the beauty wands!) I cannot go a day without this! I will always use a matte powder to contour.

#6 EYES

I typically use bronzer all over the lid or just in the crease – SO quick and easy! A beautiful extra step is this “tan” pigment on the lid – It will seriously last you forever. Always looks gorgeous! I will also rotate this eye tint in “Camel Smoke.” Will not budge – Totally worth the splurge! Quick finish with liner (upper lid) & mascara!

#7 LIPS

First, I line my lips with Charlotte Tilbury’s lip liner – Sooo good! I use the shade “Pillowtalk.” Another favorite (and transfer proof!) is a MUFE product. Next, I applied this lipstick in “Wrong Number.”

(To prep my lips, the YSL Liquid Balm softens like a dream! It has a tint and can absolutely be worn alone)

#8 FINAL TOUCHES

Finally, I applied my favorite NARS blush & popped on some highlighter.

I use a setting spray to set my face really well – It melts the products together and keeps everything in place!

I always go back to the same three:

Fix + (Love the scented versions!)
All Nighter
Moisture Bound Energy Mist

I’d love to hear your current favorites in the comments below! If you have any product questions or would like shade details, DM me on Instagram @elenipeczkowski. If you don’t watch my IG-Stories, I’d recommend checking them out for tips and tricks! It’s a really easy way to follow me and see what I am wearing that day. You can also find details on the Liketoknow.it app – Click HERE to follow me!

WARDROBE ESSENTIAL: BODYSUITS

I die for a good bodysuit – This is by far one of the softest I’ve ever owned! It’s incredibly flattering, the perfect amount of stretch in all the right places! How sexy is the snakeskin?! Obsessed with the double V neckline. Totally takes me into summer with some cute shorts! (Available in three colors)

You guys, this might be one of the best pairs of denim I own! I’ve purchased numerous pairs of designer denim – This high waisted pair is under $65! The most incredible fit, super slimming, and the wash is perfect!

I am so in love with this cropped suede jacket! This will totally be my go to for the season – Sizes and colors are going fast in this cut! I rounded up some similar styles for you as well!

A nude heel is a total closet staple for me – An all time favorite, it can be elevate any look. Not to mention make your legs look a mile long!

These neutral pieces can be mixed and matched, worn with everything! I’ve added in some cute accessories to change up the look. These earrings are a stunning recent find – I couldn’t resist at $11!

What’s your favorite way to wear a bodysuit?! Let me know!

XOXO

Eleni

SHOP THE LOOK

Double-V Bodysuit

Markie Bodysuit

High Waist Skinny Jean

Faux Suede Jacket

Sannibel Platform Wedge (ON SALE!)

Mesh Tassel Earring

Taner Bar Necklace

12 INSANELY GORGEOUS LIP PRODUCTS WORTH EVERY PENNY

Lip creams, Matte Formulas, Glosses – I’ve tried them ALL!

Personally, a lip color really completes the look – I’m not embarrassed to admit I have at least five options on me at all times!

I love that there are millions of shades to chose from and how one can make you feel!

These products have officially hit Holy Grail Status –

Charlotte Tilbury K.i.s.s.i.n.g Lipstick in Nude Kate

Tom Ford Ultra Shine Lip Gloss in Naked

MAC Pink Lipstick in Snob

Yves Saint Laurent Tatouage Matte Lip Stain in 07 – Nu Interdit

Chantecaille Brilliant Gloss in Charm

Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips Lipstick in Kim KW

NARS Orgasm Afterglow Lip Balm

Lawless Soft Matte Lipstick in Parker

Tarte Color Splash Lipstick in Salt Lyfe

Fenty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer

NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Sex Machine

NARS Audacious Lipstick in Anna

ELENI

XOXO

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HOLIDAY READY WITH NORDSTROM

A HUGE thank you to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post!

Nordstrom is ALWAYS my go to for selecting the most perfect holiday gifts. Today I’m sharing with you my tried-and-true picks, items I can’t live without! AND some things I wouldn’t mind seeing under the tree this year!

[SHOP THIS LOOK: MENS FLANNEL PAJAMAS; WOMENS FLANNEL NIGHTSHIRT ; BABY PLAID ONE-PIECE]

GIFT IDEAS

COZY MUST-HAVES

Can NEVER have enough!!

SPANX

My all time favorite leggings – I’ve purchased every style! Lifts and holds everything in amazingly!

BEST OF BEAUTY

I can’t believe how many good options there are! SOOO many products that I’ve finished & repurchased OVER AND OVER again! Check out all of the free gifts included as well!! If you had your eye on any of these, definitely the time to grab them!

SPLURGE-WORTHY

What wishlists are made of!

HOME DECOR

Can’t wait to use these in our new home!! Total game changers!

What’s on your wishlist?

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @elenipeczkowski, more importantly IG Stories, for a more detailed look at my favorites & restock alerts! Comment below or DM me on Instagram with any sizing or product questions!!

#nordstrom @nordstrom

XOXO

Eleni

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BEST RESTAURANTS IN CHICAGO

One of the things people ask me most is for restaurant recommendations in Chicago – Outside beauty, I LOVE researching new venues!

Thad and I have spent the past few years visiting various restaurant hot spots in Chicago, and I wanted to share with you the ones that have blown us away! If interested, I highly recommend making reservations quite some time in advance – Most locations are extremely difficult to get into!

ITALIAN

Monteverde.

Top Chef Sara Grueneberg’s masterpiece – The deliciousness is UNREAL! One of my favorite restaurants that I constantly find myself craving. Do yourself a favor and order the Wok-Fried Arrabiata and Spaghettini with Soppressata Meatballs – Ok, AND the Citrus Sundae. Not to mention the BEST mocktail in Chicago. Our FAVORITE item, the Arancini, is no longer on the menu – Quite possibly one of the best things I’ve EVER eaten.

RPM Italian.

The food is ALWAYS amazing and the ambiance is on point. I actually prefer bar seating over the dining room. Favorites include Mama DePandi’s Bucatini, the Wood Oven Pizzettes, and Roasted Octopus. Looking forward to an Aperol Spritz and Bomboloni in the near future!

Siena Tavern.

I’ve been to this restaurant more times than any other restaurant in Chicago. Never disapoints! The Wagyu Beef Meatball is a MUST! The Tuscan Kale Salad, Housemade Pasta (Pappardelle & Orecchiette!!), and Pizza Bar are to die for. I can’t forget to mention the Sticky Parmesan Potatoes alongside the No. 2 Cocktail. Don’t forget about the Bombolini here either!

STEAKHOUSE / SEAFOOD

RPM Steak.

One of my favorite spots on this list. Like RPM Italian, the vibe is trendy and the decor is stellar. The seafood tower is definitely worth the splurge – Huge tiger prawns, oysters with the most delicious jalapeno/cucumber topper… Another standout item is the Millionaire’s Potato (fontina and truffle decadence)!

Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone.

We had our wedding here – Enough said. A surf & turf staple. Can’t miss out on “The Whale” a seafood tower of Shrimp Cocktail,Shrimp and Scallop Ceviche, Alaskan King Crab, and Lobster Tail. Accompanied by lemon, cocktail sauce, and mustard sauce equals pure heaven. Don’t miss out on the freshly baked pies – Havana, Coconut, and Banana are ridiculously good!

MEXICAN

Barrio.

Another Top Chef alum Katsuji Tanabe – The dishes are creative and the flavor profile is exceptional. Standouts include the Blue Shrimp Ceviche (served with Doritos!!), Esquites Style Corn, and if available, the Blue Crab Taquitos. ALSO, a Spicy Marg to die for.

SUSHI

Sunda.

Some of the best sushi I’ve ever had in a trendy River North location. The noodles & fried rice are delicious! Experience the most unique and expansive Bloody Mary Bar during brunch hours!

Katana.

A must try once baby P arrives!

BRUNCH

The Allis.

Incredibly cute! Ideal West Loop location – Sit outside and sip some rose while enjoying the most incredible French Toast (Vanilla Anglaise, Fresh Berries!!) and the Allis Cheeseburger… Perfect start to a Sunday Funday!

Summer House.

Another spot I’ve been to multiple times – Gorgeous atmosphere! Who doesn’t love a “Countdown to Summer” and Rose Cart in Chicago? Must haves include the House-Made Guacamole & Chips, Watermelon & Ahi Tuna Tostadas, Burrata & Marinated Tomatoes… My newest obsession are the Poke Bowls! Or just head over to the Bakery Counter for a latte and the most drool-worthy rice krispie treats (fruity pebble, oreo, and more!) & specialty cookies!

COCKTAILS

Bad Hunter.

Hands down one of the best experiences Thad and I have ever had. Such a fun place for a date night or evening out with friends. Excellent service alongside the most exceptional cocktails!

Noyane.

Favorite rooftop in Chicago! Unbeatable downtown views, delicious cocktails, yummy Japanese food, a chic yet relaxed vibe… A must see this summer!

Swift & Sons.

Perfect place to grab a drink – Coolest vibe, Best Staff Ever! Super knowledgeable & innovative… The food is extremely tasty too!

Looking to plan a date night for my birthday – Any recommendations? I’m leaning towards Steak 48 ….

Thoughts on incorporating more posts outside of beauty?

XOXO

ELENI

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NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE FAVS

Hey Beauties! Hope you all had a great weekend!

Anyone else OBSESSED with shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?!?

I know many of you are still trying to take advantage of the pre-sale – Thought I would share some outfit ideas with you! Sooo many of my favorite pieces are on sale!!