Showing posts with label haircare. Show all posts
Showing posts with label haircare. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Last time my @angelodavidhair haircut was for @pantene #beautifullengths but this time it was just for ME! #TressesTuesday #Hair


When an invite to 'Get Gorgeous During NYFW (New York Fashion Week)' hits my inbox and it's from my favorite New York City Salon, I am definitely ALL over it. My love for Angelo David Salon and my Fave Stylist Ivy runs deep, I met them at Getting Gorgeous 2014, and a few months later I went to the salon for a very special haircut - I donated over 13 inches of hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths (PBL) for women with Cancer. Check out the current PBL #8or8 campaign - where you can either donate 8 inches of hair or donate $8 dollars to help the cause!

You know just how seriously this butterfly takes all cancer related charities! Stay tuned on a Special Luncheon I will be attending later this week.

I hit the Angelo David Salon in between Fashion Week Shows this year and while oddly my hair was super long (almost near my waist), I didn't have enough to donate because I was leaving it a bit longer than last time. The top two photos of the Photo Collage above are the current cut (with bangs), the two on the bottom are from 2014.

This naturally wavy with super thin hair knows better than to cut bangs in summer, so when I want bangs I do them for Fall and this year I decided it was time to re-visit bangs. I did Bangs and long graduated layers to give my hair a bit more volume.

Here is a compilation video of my hair cuts at Angelo David Salon:




MY TAKE:

I definitely trust Ivy completely and it's super nice to be able to just sit back and relax at a Salon and not have to worry in any way. I love the bangs and graduated layers, I definitely needed the refresh, and wanted to break away from always copping out with ponytails, this will force me to do something with it everyday, and I am definitely all about that right now.

I am ready to toy with color and that will be focus of my next visit!

Readers Sound Off: How do you like wearing YOUR hair? Short? Long? Somewhere in Between? Have you tried the Angelo David Salon before? Are you 'hair adventurous' or do you stick to the same style each visit?

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FTC Disclosure: While this is NOT a Compensated Post, Angelo David Salon did provide my cut to facilitate my review for editorial purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. I can easily be lured out of my bat cave for 'pretty' time and bubbly! :)

Monday, December 7, 2015

{#Giveaway} It is @Neutrogena Rainbath's 45th Anniversary/Birthday but YOU get the presents! #Ad

NEUTROGENA® Rainbath Giveaway

Sponsored Giveaway, brought to you by Neutrogena!
NEUTROGENA® Rainbath Giveaway via Ascending Butterfly
Neutrogena's Rainbath is turning 45, although she doesn't look a day over 18 if you ask me!

I 'discovered' Neutrogena in my teens. I saw an ad that said that using Neutrogena's Shampoo is a good way to make your regular brand more effective by alternating between it & the Neutrogena anti-residue shampoo.

That began a period of me trying out tons of products in the line, with their Oil-Free Acne Wash, Rainbath refreshing shower and bath gel and their original light sesame body oil becoming my top three favorites from their line!

Now that I am blogging and get to try out tons of skincare and beauty products in a wide variety of price points, it is still Neutrogena I go back to. When I finish a system I am testing out, I let my skin 'breathe' again before starting on a new system to review by using Neutrogena for a week before I go testing something new.

It slays me to re-visit old posts, especially previous work for the same brand, and this review post of mine for Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair (in conjunction with Allure Magazine and their Beauty Enthusiast's program) still cracks me up, check it out HERE (it outlines me and my eternal struggle with RBF, if you suffer from RBF too, can I get a 'what-what'!?) Another review I enjoyed re-reading that I did for Neutrogena can be found HERE. And a post for them that is near and dear to my heart as it's a rare glimpse into me and how I got into writing, HERE.

My mom taught me the importance of NEVER going to bed with makeup on, and on those nights when I come in and just straight up want to hit my bed hard, I always keep a pack of makeup remover in my nightstand, I love keeping these at the ready. I keep some in my purse too. This way between day and night events I can change makeup or after the gym (although in all fairness I try not to wear makeup when I am headed to the gym).
Rainbath is enjoying a 45th Anniversary/Birthday and what better way to celebrate a special occasion, than with presents?
I certainly love a good prezzie, particularly around holiday time! Our friends at Neutrogena whole-heartedly agree and they want to stuff your stocking with some Neutrogena 'goodies'. In fact a basket of Neutrogena Goodies, this may have to go under the tree as it might not fit in your stocking!

WIN IT:

One lucky butterfly will win a basket of Neutrogena Products including Rainbath - Refreshing Shower and bath gel!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below: (sometimes the widget gets stuck, if that's the case, just refresh your screen, that usually does the trick! If you don't see the widget but the words 'a Rafflecopter giveaway' just press that link which will take you to the entry widget)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MY TAKE:

Neutrogena will always be the brand I associate with my kick off into my skincare and beauty routine, and when I get the chance to write about products you will definitey find in my cabinets anyway - I consider it a really good day at the office.

You know how much I love playing 'Butterfly Claus' and giving you guys the chance to experience the products I am currently playing with!

Readers Sound Off: What is your favorite Neutrogena Product? Why is it your fave?

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FTC Disclosure: All products featured were supplied to Ascending Butterfly at no cost for Editorial Consideration. This is a sponsored/compensated Post, however all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

(Not So) {#WordlessWednesday} Shh! Don't tell anyone but @SheaMoisture was my favorite booth at #BlogHer15

One of the best things about Blogging Conferences is connecting with brands, and BlogHer will always win for sheer volume and variety that's a given, they do it bigger! But for me when I can finally connect with a brand that I already love and really use on the regular it's a win/win.

Well first, it's a sort of smack my forehead and think 'DOH! Why haven't I ever reached out to them before?'

BlogHer15 gave me that moment and it was with a brand that I first became aware of because they were gift/swag bag inclusions multiple times at Beauty Events I have attended here in New York City throughout the years. But they weren't at the actual events. I fell in love with each of the Shea Moisture products I had the pleasure of trying out. So when I happened upon them in the expo hall of the Hilton I may have actually squealed with girlish delight (Hey! Don't judge me! It's the little things in life that excite me!)

Their range is super diverse and it was during BlogHer15 that I discovered in addition to the hair and body care products that I have grown to love, they make makeup/cosmetics as well.

I got my makeup done, and I discovered that I still need more practice in the fine art of contouring but I loved the products that were used on me and I also waited to get my hair done. The hairstylist took one look at my hair and said my ends 'were a hot mess' (they were) and told me to return the next day so he could trim them.

And I did.

And I got my first ever haircut (not just a blow out, flat iron or hair touch up) on a tradeshow floor, that was a first for me! And I have to say I absolutely LOVED the results! I have fine hair so if I over product it can look greasy at the root but the ends will still look dry because it's also frizz prone. I have to be careful not to let my hair 'bulk up' too much and when I get a quality cut I can feel the difference, I have fine hair but a lot of of it, so after it's well cut, my whole head sort of feels 'lighter' and of course feels smoother and silkier (no matter how hard I try I have never been able to replicate a hair stylist blow out at home!).

Their booth was buzzing, of course because the products are really THAT good, but they also had a live Graffiti Artist doing wall art for them at the booth, the mural was created by Seb Gorey and you can read more about the mural that was created HERE.

I left that booth feeling like a million bucks, or at least like a shinier penny that's for sure! Makeup CHECK. Hair cut and styled, CHECK. Samples of my favorite products, CHECK PLUS PLUS.

They need to put a ring on it and make me an official ambassador, #JustSayin

Here is a photo of me in front of the mural wall:

#SheaMoisture Booth Photo at #BlogHer15 #ABetterWayToBeautiful


MY TAKE:

Shh! Don't tell anyone but theirs was my favorite booth at BlogHer15. They were super welcoming, took the time to LISTEN not just try and sell, and their hair and makeup artist were totally on fleek. You know I only pause for mascot photos and avoid direct on photos of myself where possible (you all know I don't fall for 'step and repeats'), so for me to pose by myself with no mascot in site is total brand love! And while it's a small thank you in comparison for how good they made me feel, I hope they know just how much this particular blogger feels appreciative of the efforts they took into keeping up that energy and working hard to make sure everyone left their booth feeling beautiful. The hooded cardigan and top I am wearing are by MiracleSuit and the jeans are by Silver Jeans!

I want to add that Shea Moisture body scrubs are the BOMB, and I can't stress enough that their hair care products are good for ALL hair types!

Have you tried Shea Moisture Products yet? If so, which is your fave? What is your go to haircare brand?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a NON -compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received and this is an event recap (samples were provided). All my opinions are 100% MY OWN. I was a Vitabath Brand Ambassador for the BlogHer 2015 Conference. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, April 6, 2015

Mix up your Spring #Haircare Routine and join in the #TwitterParty FUN too! #NewNexxus #Spon



As a Lifestyle Blogger I get the opportunity to test out a lot of different products, let's face it, it's a tough job, but somebody's got to do it! While I don't mind it being me, I do know that in between products I take a few days and go back to old favorites whether it's skincare or hair-care.

My first 'salon' hair product was Nexxus, that is what my hairdresser at my favorite hair salon used on me during each visit so that is what I would buy to use at home as well. When I'm not testing new products this is still the brand I tend to return to so when I find ways to nab it a discount I definitely take advantage.



So when I a little birdie dropped some interesting news in my inbox I knew I just couldn't keep it all to myself! From April 5th through April 11th hit the Beauty Counter at your local Duane Reade or Walgreens (or both, tee-hee!) during the 'Beauty Must-Haves' Event and meet with a Beauty Advisor to score a $2 off coupon on all your Nexxus New York Salon Care Faves! Coupons are only available while supplies last, so RUN not walk! The coupons may be used from 4/1 - 6/24/15 on any one product. (Like I said hit more than one counter, you will want a coupon for each product right?)

Turns out my old favorite has actually been re-formulated, and now offers a new Encapsulate Serum that has been enriched with 100% Elastin Protein and Caviar Complex to help re-balance, restore and replenish hair, I don't know about you, but Spring always puts a new bounce in my step, why not put some bounce in my hair too? Feeding my hair Caviar? So FANCY!



A little birdie also told me that Walgreen's is hosting a Twitter Party! Here are the deets:

Walgreens #NewNexxus Twitter Party

What: Walgreens #NewNexxus Twitter Party
When: Wednesday, April 8th from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. ET
Follow: Host @ResourcefulMom and tweet with party hashtag #NewNexxus

NOTE: I am NOT the moderator, nor am I co-host, please direct all questions to the party hostess @Resourcefulmom

MY TAKE:

I stayed with my favorite hairdresser until he retired from the industry and the smell of Nexxus will always remind me of him, I am looking forward to trying out the newly re-formulated Therappe Shampoo, Humectress Conditioner and the Encapsulate Serum, I say just like we re-vamp our makeup routines come Spring, we should mix things up with our hair too!

What is YOUR Favorite Haircare Brand?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, however all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.


Friday, October 10, 2014

Wash away that "Frizz Halo" with @Aveda 's #AvedaNaturallyStraight #Haircare System! @SheSpeaksUp



Instead of washing that man right out of your hair, do you ever wish you could wash that curl/wave/frizz right out of your hair instead?

Fall isn't all pumpkin and cozy sweaters folks, there is rain, and GASP there is still humidity!

I recently cut off over 13 inches of hair to donate to Pantene's Beautiful Lengths Program for Women With Cancer (if you missed that post, check it out HERE), and while it doing felt great, it also left me with hair way shorter than I have ever cut mine before. The shorter my hair is, the wavier it gets, which to some would be a blessing in disguise as it's naturally thin so the curls do give it body, except my hair in addition to being very thin is also super frizz prone, so while I actually do love my natural wave pattern, I do not love the frizz that comes with it.

To keep the frizz monster at bay I tend to blow dry AND flat iron my hair regularly. This pattern is very much a 'catch 22'. I blow dry then flat iron to knock out the frizz and wear my hair straighter, but doing so does weaken the hair over time making it more split prone. Once you have split ends you tend to have to cut them off to get the hair back to a healthier place.

I may have just found an end to the cycle!
























About Aveda Naturally Straight:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Progressively loosens curls every time you style

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - While Chemical Laden Straighteners also change hair's natural texture, Aveda's mixture of Pure Flower and Plant Essences do not change your hair's texture, it works from the outside, adding a surface layer to the hair that loosens curls with each use

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - A barrier of tapioca starch and maize forms a humidity barrier to help you fend off frizz in even extreme humidity

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Uplifting Aroma - features a citrus-floral blend containing bergamot, palmarosa, Turkish Rose and wild-harvested Australian Sandalwood (not to get all political on you, but in other countries the trees are un-ethically poached, Aveda gets it's Sandalwood Oil from Western Australia where the tree is actually a protected species by the Government and they use indigenous harvesters which has been an aid to the aboriginal people of Western Australia - it's another small way YOU can make a big difference and have a say about the sustainability of this planet and the living wage we all deserve to have! Put your money where your politics is butterfly!)






































How to use:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Step 1: Wash hair with Aveda Smooth Infusion Shampoo, follow with Aveda Smooth Infusion Conditioner. Towel Dry Hair and Comb Through (aka de-tangle)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Step 2: Apply Aveda Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Smoother to damp hair, work it through from the mid-shaft through to your ends.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Step 3:  Apply Aveda Smooth Infusion Naturally Straight based on your hair's length and thickness, start by using a small coin size drop (think about a dime size) on towel-dried hair one section at a time.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Step 4: Blow Dry hair straight (the larger the brush, think a large round or paddle the straigher your results will be) Flat iron if a sleeker result is desired.

Insider Tip:

Watch this video which shows Aveda working directly on four hair types to show how the Smooth Infusion line works with hair that is naturally straight but frizzy, hair that is wavy, hair that is coily and they give you a tip on just how to measure your hair to determine the amount of product needed.





Yes count me totally jelly that I wasn't invited to get my hair done at Aveda!

My Take:

The Aveda Smooth Infusion System is working well for me, I have actually not put a flat iron to my hair since I started with this system so I'm noticing a remarkable difference with way less split ends in my hair, Blow drying it has actually been enough which for me has never happened before, since it's shorter I want motion, body and bounce, and I get just that using these products without my flat iron. I love the system as a whole, but the smooth infusion Naturally Straight was the super star of the entire line for me as it made detangling my hair a breeze and I find that the system has also cut down my time spent blow-drying my hair significantly. Anything that gets me out the door faster and keeps the frizz monster at bay is definitely aces in my book.

There are literally NO cons here for me. I would actually advise you to use a bit LESS than you may think you need which is a pro in my book as the product will last longer!

Now please remember you should still blow dry for a straighter finish especially the first few times you use it, but once it builds up depending on just how straight a final look you are looking to achieve you may even be able to skip blowing your hair every now and again.

I found myself tugging at my hair way less to get it straight, it de-tangled my hair quickly and easily and cut my drying time, TOTAL SCORE!

Have you tried Aveda before Butterflies? Which product in their line works best for YOU?

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FTC DisclosureThis is a sponsored post for Aveda in conjunction with SheSpeaks. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Enter to win the @FabFitFun Reader Appreciation #SubscriptionBox #Giveaway via Ascending Butterfly! #FabFitFun

FabFitFun Summer 2014 Summer Subscription Box
FabFitFun Summer 2014 Summer Subscription Box


As you know I am a Fab Fit Fun VIP Blogger, which means I get to try out the new boxes when they are released, this time around my Summer Fab Fit Fun Box never arrived so the lovely folks at Fab Fit Fun quickly sent out a replacement and within 2 days I somehow ended up getting two of them. I normally would have passed the extra one along to a family member or friend, but I am all about Paying it Forward and I thought I would instead use the second box as a Reader Appreciation Giveaway as a way to say Thank You to all my butterflies (other folks would say readers, but you are all butterflies to me).

This is the summer 2014 box but in my opinion all these items are fantastic year round. Let's take a peek inside the box shall we?

Fab Fit Fun Summer 2014 Subscription Box Includes:

Sonya Dakar Flash Facial



Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sonya Dakar Flash Facial - Developed by Gwyneth Paltrow's famed facialist, in just 60 seconds this little wonder will help you reveal softer, plumper, younger looking skin and is packed with antioxidants, and hyaluronic and lactic acids to give you smooth and radiant skin. Retail Value of $95 - TOTAL SCORE!

pur ~ lisse pur ~ protect SPF 30


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - pur ~ lisse pur ~ protect SPF 30 - This was featured by Vogue as the Editor's Favorite Summer Product. Remember butterflies you need SPF protection YEAR ROUND, NOT just in summer! I lost one of my Aunt's to skin cancer and cannot stress this enough. Retail Value of $55

Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch Lips Pattern


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch - Tired of the same old same makeup bag? Pimp your cosmetics bag with these Tres-Trendy super cute designs, canvas exteriors, with a nylon interior, metal zip closure and adorable prints. (Note: I received mine in a watercolor pattern, the winner of this giveaway will receive the lips pattern as shown above). By the way the box also includes a $30 Gift Card so you can take $30 off your next purchase at www.thufri.com! How cool is that? You get to try it out yourself and then you nab another one for yourself in another design or a bigger bag (they have more than just cosmetics cases and clutches, they have larger profile totes too) or you could give the gift card to a friend so they can try Thursday Friday too! (Pay it forward my friends!) Retail Value of $35

Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil - With a blend of argan, jojoba and tamanu oils this helps fight flyaways, tame frizzies and nourish your hair. I have tried quite a few products from this line and I am never disappointed! Retail Value of $25

FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle - They want to encourage us to "Grab Life by the Excercise Balls" and stay inspired while we perspire. This BPA-free bottle has a built in infuser so you can add your favorite flavors to your water. (Watermelon Not Included) Retail Value of $15

Zoya Nail Polish in Elodie


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Zoya Nail Polish - Vegan Friendly, safe to use even during pregnancy and long wearing, what's NOT to love? The color shown is called 'Elodie' Retail Value $9

KISSTIXX Lip Balm in Chocolate Strawberry Combo Pack Flavor


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - KISSTIXX Lip Balm - This 'Makeout' Make-over in a tube will help couples enhance their chemistry with these complimentary flavored lip balms! You keep one, give your partner the other and then kiss each other to mix the flavors up! I received Chocolate/Strawberry and the winner of the giveaway will get the Peaches and Cream Combo. Retail Value $5.99

POPchips Sour Cream & Onion


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - POPchips - POPchips are NEVER fried and are only 100-130 per single-serving bag! If you are like me and need something for the 'mid-day hump' these are definitely just the trick! Retail Value $1.29

Skintimate Shave Gel


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Skintimate Shave Gel - With Signature Scents and Skin Therapy Formulas you can keep your legs smooth and beautiful with each shave! Retail Value of $1.99



Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Always Xtra Protection Long Daily Liners - Not just for summer, perfect for those super long days, followed by the Gym or just plain anytime you want to feel fresh and confident. Consider it an everyday essential. Retail Value of $1.50

Slimfast Have Your Cake Meal Bar


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Slimfast Have Your Cake Meal Bar - Protein Meal Bar with flavors of Vanilla Cake and Frosting with sprinkles has only 180 calories per bar so you can late night snack with a lot less guilt! (Note: You will receive one individually wrapped bar, not the box). Retail Value $1

My Take:

I absolutely adore being a Fab Fit Fun VIP Blogger, I love Subscription Boxes and I think they make great gifts. No one will have a 'been there done that' reaction to it. I have yet to open one box from Fab Fit Fun that felt like a let down. It's not just a matter of the retail value of the products being higher than what you pay, it's a matter of all those items being well curated and USEFUL - be it for yourself or the gift recipient. This has been one of my most fun Ambassadorships to date and the fact that I actually got to meet Giuliana Rancic in person is the icing on the cake.

Win It:

It's been awhile since awhile since I have hosted a pure Reader Appreciation Giveaway that is being fulfilled solely by me, and I am super happy to do something fun for all my butterflies, I hope you enjoy Fab Fit Fun as much as I do! Please note the prize is the box as shown above with any exception being noted in the box subscription, the prize is this specific box, not a full subscription.

Use the Rafflecopter Widget Below to enter this giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Which item in this Fab Fit Fun Box is your personal fave or which one would you most like to try Butterfly? Can't wait to try the box and can't wait to find out if you won? I have three codes for $15 off a box, Tweet me @Ascending1 and tell me you want to 'try it and  buy it' - 3 butterflies will be selected at random to get a code for $15 off their next FabFitFun Box Purchase!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post, Ascending Butterfly is fulfilling this giveaway to one winner directly. I am a Fab Fit Fun VIP Blogger and subscription boxes are sent to us for editorial consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, August 11, 2014

Great Haircut by @angelodavidhair – I cut off 13 inches to donate to @pantene #beautifullengths for women battling #Cancer

I recently met an amazing Stylist from Angelo David Salon in New York City at a recent Getting Gorgeous Event. They were offering Hair Touch Ups and my stylist Ivy listened to me about me wanting to make a real change to my hair and my style. She made a few recommendations, the first being cutting a bit of length to bring back the bounce to my hair. (You can check out a recap of Getting Gorgeous HERE in case you missed it).

I finally made the summer chop! It was LONG overdue and quite frankly it felt symbolically like I shed a ton of dead weight as she cut!

I tend to cut my hair shorter in summer, and this summer I decided to make a super huge cut, way shorter than I would normally cut my hair (my motto is 'always leave enough for a ponytail'), and I did it for a good cause!

The Big 'C' has definitely hit my family hard so Cancer Charities have always held a very special place in my heart and with my own recent Hospital Nightmare even more so. So I asked my stylist to measure my ponytail to see if I had enough to donate and I was pleasantly surprised that I had more than I even needed!

So my hair was cut in a ponytail which is the way it needs to be cut if you are going to donate it.

Hair Donation to Pantene Beautiful Lengths







Above: Check with where you plan to donate, but I am donating mine to Pantene's Great Lengths and they ask for 8 inches, as you can see mine is about 13 inches!

About Angelo David Salon:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Over 20 years and located in the heart of midtown Manhattan

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They offer Manhattan's Couture Hair Extensions and Hair Color customized to enhance your skin tone and eye color, hair texture and hair type. (I am thinking of opting for Hair Color next, I told you I'm ready for a change!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They also offer full custom human-hair wigs




Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They also sell Angelo David Brushes, Combs, Hair Care and Hair Detox (doctor-formulated herbal supplements for both men and women that promotes hair growth and healthy skin) as well.


About Pantene Beautiful Lengths Donation Requirements:



Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They require at minimum 8 inches


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Hair needs to be free of dyes, bleaches or chemicals


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The hair needs to be no more than 5% grey

My Before and After:


Hair Stylist Ivy of the Angelo David Salon in New York City styles Ascending Butterfly Editor Tracy Iglesias, hair, haircut



Above: BEFORE: Ivy from the Angelo David Salon giving me a hair styling touch up during Getting Gorgeous


Hair Stylist Ivy of the Angelo David Salon in New York City styles Ascending Butterfly Editor Tracy Iglesias, hair, haircut


Above: This is still the before, this is after the style touch up during Getting Gorgeous, but this is the length my hair was before she cut it. (and remember, in this photo she curled it, so it's actually longer than it appears!)


@angelodavidhair salon, Hair Stylist Ivy of the Angelo David Salon in New York City styles Ascending Butterfly Editor Tracy Iglesias, hair, haircut

Above: Here is the AFTER! This is shortest than I've ever gone but I can't begin to tell you just how liberating going shorter has made me feel, and being able to put the hair to such a good cause was very much the icing on the cake for me.

My Take:

Finding a stylist I am comfortable with is hard enough for me, nevertheless actually uttering the words "Do whatever you want", but Ivy really made me feel at ease during my hairstyling session and impromptu consultation during Getting Gorgeous. I feel super blessed to have met her there and have had the opportunity to have her transform me at the Angelo David Salon. I highly recommend both Ivy and the Angelo David Salon.

Even though they are in the heart of midtown, once you arrive at the Salon you instantly feel at ease, they offer you a warm greeting and a moment to just settle before your appointment which is great. They are right off Grand Central which can be a hectic area so I definitely appreciated just sitting for a moment and having something to drink.

It's super fun attending local blogger events and having some people not recognize me since my signature long ponytail is now gone! I'm thinking it may just stay gone for awhile as I am totally digging the new me!
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Butterflies, do you have a favorite stylist or salon, If so, which one? 

Do something for yourself today butterfly that will keep you in high spirits for the rest of the week. 


Happy Motivation Monday!


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FTC Disclosure: While this is NOT a Sponsored or Compensated Post, Angelo David Salon did provide my cut to facilitate my review for editorial purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Mother's Day Gift Buying Reco: FAB FIT FUN @FabFitFun SPRING 2014 BOX! #FFFVIP

#ad: A FabFitFun Box was provided for Editorial Consideration. I am a member of the #FFFVIP program.

FabFitFun Logo


I am a FabFitFun VIP Member and recently received their Spring 2014 Box. Here is a review on the last box I received.  I had the chance to attend a live tweet up last year with Giuliana Rancic and co-host a twitter party in conjunction with the P&G #GIVEHope 'Do it for the Girls' campaign. If you missed that post, you can check it out HERE.

Meeting Giuliana in person and hearing her story inspired me because there is a history of Cancer in my family, to get my first ever Mammogram early. Cancer does NOT discriminate and youth is not a shield against it!

Giuliana developed a subscription box service called FabFitFun where she curates a collection of great products spanning beauty, wellness, health, fitness and fashion to help you feel good from the inside out (which of course is very much our motto here at Ascending Butterfly!).

Out of ideas on what to get mom this year? How about a FabFitFun Box Subscription? It's a gift that will let her know you are thinking of her YEAR ROUND, not just one day of the year. And the box spans such a wide product range it will help her find new favorites!

"It's the perfect way to kickstart your happy and get more from life every day!"

Here is a picture of the Spring 2014 Box which I recieved below:

Spring 2014 FabFitFun Box
Spring 2014 FabFitFun Box - I propped it up on my bed in front of my pillows so I could feel like it was a welcome basket from a Spa!


What is in the box? Glad You Asked:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Kai Perfume Oil - ARV $48 - I reviewed the Body Butter from Kai back in 2010, which you can check out HERE - just remember the giveaway component to that post is closed off to any new entries or comments!) I love Kai products so I am super stoked to have the perfume oil (perfect size for travel!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cover | FX SPF 30 Protection Primer - ARV $38 - I love priming my skin especially before using a powder/mineral foundation.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Mini Stability Ball and Breathing & Muscular Release DVD System - ARV $28.94 - This is going to really help me kickstart my Spring Fitness Routines, I was super excited to find this one in my FabFitFun Box!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dermasuri Deep Exfoliating Mitt - ARV $19.99 - This is actually a body scrub AND body treatment. The unique fabric sloughs off dead skin cells, making the skin surface ready for even tanning as well as self-tanning products, improves circulation, stimulates collagen production which fights aging skin appearance and it also evens skin tone to prevent dullness. (Also gentle enough to use post sunburn to slough off the peeling skin!) I am BIG on body exfoliation followed by a body oil when my skin is still warm and then a body butter later in the evening. I have to admit I am a bit obsessed with this mitt!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cult Gaia Turband - ARV $48 - I have honestly never worn a Turban, so we'll see how this works out but mine has a 'cherries' pattern on it, I'm more of an animal print person myself (I think the 'Ally' would have been more me or butterflies of course, but I don't see anything with Butterflies on them) - These are lined with wire so they are bendable and totally adjustable! And I love that they are HANDMADE in Los Angeles.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Invisible Spray - ARV $25 - Nothing extends the life of a quality blow-out better than a good Dry Shampoo. I was a bit of a late comer to this trend, but I am finally getting what all the buzz is about. Particularly as my hair is super long right now, so when I get a blow out done I love having a way to extend the life of it. This one sprays clear, removes excess oil and product build-up, boosts volume and has gentle starches and Vitamin E and Wheat Proteins which strengthen and protect the hair. It uses Lemon Verbena to provide a fresh, clean fragrance.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Level Naturals Shower Bombs - ARV $7.99, Four Pack - Think of these as a Bath Bomb's kid sister. You drop one of these at the bottom of the shower near your feet under direct water away from the drain and allow the Organic Menthol and Eucalyptus to clear your mind, while the Tea Tree essential oils help your tired feet at the same time! It's a quick Aromatherapy Home Spa Session!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Better Chip Spinach and Kale with Sea Salt - ARV $1.99 - These are great to have in the pantry to help conquer those 'savory' cravings with something that offers the same bold flavor with a lot less fat!

My Take:

The best things about a subscription box is discovering a great new product, or a brand that is new to you. And what is better than finding a product new to you from a brand you already love?

What mom wouldn't love to know you are thinking about them year round?

I would definitely suggest this box subscription as a gift for Mom or for anyone really! (And why not pick up one for yourself while you are at it?)

It's actually difficult to pick a favorite this time around, but I have always wanted a stability ball and I keep saying I'm going to pick one up and forget, so I'm really excited to finally have one and try to incorporate it into my fitness plan to gear up for summer! I have already got the perfect new swimsuit (more details on that soon I promise), so I need to get it in gear before I hit the beaches this summer!

I provided URL's to all the brands above in the list of contents so you could get social with them as well, but don't forget to get social with FabFitFun too!

Get Social with FabFitFun:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' FabFitFun on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @FabFitFun on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pin with FabFitFun on Pinterest
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe on YouTube
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Hang out with FabFitFun on Tumblr

I'm definitely looking forward to trying out my next box (I hear the summer box is going to be pretty awesome too! and if you follow them on facebook you'll get some spoilers!), and this would definitely be a thoughtful gift for someone you know who is in the hospital or home getting treatments, I know this would have put a smile on my face while I was in the hospital during most of 2012 that's for sure. (And remember some floors do not allow patients to have flowers and some patients also have food restrictions, but usually beauty products are not banned, just call ahead to be sure).





Coupon Code: Save $5 until July 15th by using the code SUMMER5

Which of these products would you most like to try? Which is your favorite subscription Beauty Box Service and why?


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FTC Disclosure: I received a FabFitFun Spring 2014 Subscription Box for Editorial Consideration, however all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information. This post contains affiliate links.