Cult Gaia Ark Bag

Here you have it ladies, this season’s hottest “it” bag! I, much like everyone else on the internet was struck by this beautifully unique hand crafted bag from the moment I first saw it on social media. Not only does it have a unique shape, but the bamboo material makes for a timeless heirloom piece that will be sure to live in your closet forever. Created in 2012 by Jasmin Larian, Cult Gaia’s vision is to create pieces that resemble art and can stand the test of time. I received this bag as an “early birthday” gift from my sister/co blogger (our birthdays are both in August) and I couldn’t be happier/more paranoid about this beautiful item she bestowed onto me. Firstly, I received the smaller size that measures 11″ x 8″ x 3″. I personally think this size suits my small frame better than the larger one and gives me a much needed reason to downsize all of the crap I lug around all day in a huge purse. I am comfortable putting a small card wallet, my phone and perhaps a very small pouch with room for lipstick and one other beauty item to touch up. A couple of other smaller items will indeed fit but here is where the paranoid part kicks in, I’m afraid to break the precious intricately woven wood with too much crap. This bag will be my highly coveted baby for years to come. Huge thanks to my sister for buying it for me and to the brand for creating such a lovely piece to add to my collection!

I styled this piece with an all-black ensemble so as to let the bag have its own moment. The bell sleeve black top is from ASOS and the high waist wide leg trousers are from the brand French connection that I scored at Marshalls. I also brought out my high key sunnies from the DesixQuay Collection and let me tell you, I may have to buy another back up pair (that’s how good they are!). Links to items down below!

Cult Gaia Ark Bag- Natural
Desi Perkins X Quay Australia- High Key Fades
Similar Top
Similar Pants- Here,Here

Go-To Curly Hair Products-Shea Moisture Line

So as mentioned in one of my previous hair post, I have taken on the task to try and nurture my hair back to health after a long time of chemically damaging it with relaxers and heat. I still from time to time use rollers, or straighten it but for the most part wear it in its natural curly state. Its been quite a journey figuring out what works best for my hair type and I am still learning as I go along. My main concerns were affordability and using natural products (to bring my hair back to life). In comes Shea Moisture products! This nutrient rich line is certified organic, cruelty free, dosent incoporate parabens or sulfates and the list goes on and on! With ingredients like coconut oil, silk protein and even yucca its hard to believe that both of these products are under $15.00 each. The curl enhancing smoothie was my first purchase followed by the thickening growth milk that I use in conjunction together. This combination works wonders for me and depending on how much hair you have and how much you use, these products go a long way. They are available at drug stores and also linked below!

They are all taped up from the travel and usage they have gotten!

They are all taped up from the travel and usage they have gotten!

Pros- Conditions Hair, Restores Moisture & Shine, Minimizes Frizz & provides control. Be sure to "rake" this thoroughly through your hair as to not have any clumping in any one specific area. It wont flake but it will be a bit greasy if not spread evenly or if too much is used. It does not leave my hair hard at all! Super soft with control, whats not to love?

Pros- Conditions Hair, Restores Moisture & Shine, Minimizes Frizz & provides control. Be sure to “rake” this thoroughly through your hair as to not have any clumping in any one specific area. It wont flake but it will be a bit greasy if not spread evenly or if too much is used. It does not leave my hair hard at all! Super soft with control, whats not to love?

natural, products, organic, shea moisture, hair, curly, curl, smoothie, coconut oil, routine, thin, dominican

I added this thickening growth milk to the mix after realizing the smoothie was for thick hair. I personally have very thin hair and this adds volume and also helps soften it. I mix this and the smoothie in my palm and apply it generously in a "raking" motion. This can be used on damp on dry hair as a styling cream.

I added this thickening growth milk to the mix after realizing the smoothie was for thick hair. I personally have very thin hair and this adds volume and also helps soften it. I mix this and a the smoothie in my palm and apply it generously in a “raking” motion. This can be used on damp on dry hair as a styling cream.

Stay tuned for a step by step curly wash and go routine!

-love

Ari

Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

Yucca & Aloe Thickening Growth Milk