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The holidays are here and we all know what that means.  Lots of family get-togethers, friend gatherings, holiday parties, holiday vacas, and the list goes on.  I’ve really fallen in love with all the unique tops and designs that are currently in style so tops this holiday are HUGE.  I’ve gathered my five favorite tops here and from some of my favorite brands too.  What I love most about these, is that you can dress them up or dress them down so you’re good to go.  Mix them with your favorite jeans, leather pants, high-waisted pants, or even your favorite skirt.

+ The Aliyah Top in Burgundy from Bardot is so unique and such a must have for the holidays.  It’s incredibly flattering and I love the way it criss crosses at the neckline with the sheer sleeves.  The sleeves definitely give it an elegant look and feel.  I can’t wait to wear mine!

+ The Florence Bodysuit by Lovers & Friends is my favorite bodysuit for so many reasons!  Let me start off and say that everyone needs at least ONE bodysuit but if you are like me I have more than I can count because they are so timeless and look great on everyone.  If you don’t have one yet definitely start with this one.  This taupe color is great because it can go with nudes as well as brights and black.  It off one shoulder which is crazy cool and different.  You’ll definitely get asked about this one at the get together.  Your welcome.

+ The Monica Top by Free People is so beautiful I want it all colors.  It’s so chic yet edgy at the same time, I just had to get it. I’m usually not into puff sleeves but this one is so settle and classy I knew it would fit perfectly.  Also, the back on this one is FIRE.  It’s an open back to give it dimension and some sexiness.  It’s so beautiful and it’s perfect for a night on the town or a holiday dinner.

+ The Sage Bodysuit by Superdown is a must for all women.  We all need something silky, light but timeless that we can wear by itself or with your favorite suit or jacket.  The reason why I love this bodysuit is because it’s so simple.  Yes.  Simple yet so charming.  Match with with jeans, fancy pants or shorts and even a leather skirt.  Whatever you want actually!  It’s one of those bodysuits that will forever be one of your favorites because it goes with everything you already own.

+ The Gabrielle Top from Love and Lemons is to die for.  Not only is it white and figure friendly but it’s one of those pieces that just flatters everyone.  If you don’t already know.  Bustier’s are so in and look so damn good on everyone.  Not sure how they make you feel but they make me feel toned, slim and sexy.  It’s a beautiful satin jacquard top featuring a sheer bust overlay and satin ribbon lacing throughout. Making it so perfect for the holidays.  I have such a crush on this one, hopefully you do too!

I can’t believe the holidays are here but so happy they are.  I hope you all enjoy yourselves with the people you enjoy and love the most.  Fashionably awesome of course! Much love and hugs, CP x

 

 

 

Juicing. I know I know.  It’s such a ‘thing’ to do nowadays but I’ve actually been doing it ever since I was a little kid.  I grew up in a household with a doctor so we were always into our health.  My parents had one of those really loud big juicers that first came onto the market.  After college, I bought my first juicer. Homemade juice is a million times more delicious than what you can get at the store! It’s incredible.  But let’s get to it.

Here I’m going to show you the best most delicious health-benefiting juice you’ll be addicted to for the rest of your juicing days!

Let’s first talk about what’s in it.

  1. Lemon: For vitamin C and reduces your risk of heart disease, anemia, kidney stones, digestive issues, and cancer.
  2. Lime: More vitamin C and helps reduce inflammation
  3. Orange Bell Pepper: Excellent source of vitamin A, C and potassium. Low in calories
  4. Celery: Has a ton of antioxidants, supports digestion, also reduces inflammation, tons of vitamins and minerals, and has an alkalizing effect
  5. GInger Root: My favorite! Aids in digestion, king of antioxidants, boost immune system, anti-flammatory, and stimulates body’s natural detoxification process
  6. Turmeric Root: Everything that ginger root does but it also lowers blood sugar, improves blood circulation and clotting, and also supports metabolism health
  7. Honeycrisp Apple: High in fiber and low in calories.  Make sure to eat the peel because that’s where the healthy cancer fighting stuff is.

Now I can’t wait to hear what you think!  Much love and if you want to see more just follow me on IG @carlaloren xoxo

My most favorite thing to make at home is hummus but now that I am a mom and time is limited, I have turned to Ithaca Hummus for mine and my family’s needs.  If you look at store bought hummus, most of them have ingredients in them that you can’t even pronounce which most likely means not good for you.  Ithaca hummus tastes so good and everything is real.  They contain nothing artificial and contain no preservatives and you’ll recognize every single things on the ingredients label.  Studies have shown that certain chemical preservatives may be harmful to your intestinal tract because they can kill the “good bacteria” needed for digestion and nutrient absorption. As an alternative to chemical preservatives, Ithaca Hummus company controls the food safety of their hummus using a process call High Pressure Processing (HPP).  High Pressure Processing respects the sensorial and nutritional properties of food, because of the absence of heat treatment, and maintains its original freshness throughout the shelf-life.  If you want to know more, go here: facts

Make hummus a part of your diet.  It’s full of protein and nutritious goodness.  Eat it with your favorite crackers, or veggies or stick some in your sandwich or salad!  Or put it on a your party spread like I did here.  Enjoy!!

Much love, CP

Follow me on IG @carlaloren

I am the first one to tell you to just go.  Pack your suitcase and just go.  Every woman should venture out on her own.  But if you’ve never done it before, it can sound a bit scary.  While there are some places in the world that are safer than others, it’s actually not as bad or scary as we all think.  If you are somewhat prepared and have general street smarts, there are many places that are perfect for solo travelers.

ICELAND

The Land of Fire and Ice, it is.  Iceland is really a spectacular place and there is no place like it.  Solo travel is super easy and comfortable here.  Everyone is extremely nice and Reykjavik nightlife and scene is a great place to meet locals.  Everyone, solo or not should travel Iceland because of its natural beauty and endless glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, and overall landscape.  Don’t forget to visit the Blue Lagoon too! It’s one for the books!  Please note Iceland is one of the most expensive countries so make sure you are prepared. It’s definitely worth it!

SWITZERLAND

Switzerland is so picturesque it looks fake.  This country is extremely clean and classy and everyone is incredibly beautiful and nice.  From incredible mountain views, River backdrops, endless greenery hilltops, and endless meadows of florals you’ll never want to leave.  If you are visiting Switzerland you must visit the little town of Lauterbrunnen.  It’s the cutest most adorable stunning little town that has a waterfall running down the middle of it.

I stayed in Lucerne and then we took trains and buses to the same must-see destinations.  Easy to see and get around throughout all of Switzerland.  Don’t forget to wrap yourself in their culture too with their amazing chocolates and delicious foods.

 

POLAND

Poland is the one country that I was interested in but was never on top of my list.  I decided to head there because I had one more destination to do before heading home and I found a great Airbnb in both Krakow and Warshaw so I went for it.  And I’m so glad I did.  Poland is definitely a very underrated country.  Poland is beautiful, has so much history and the food is so good too.  I learned so much here and I also met so many people.  Sign up for a free city tour and you’ll meet some great people and learn things you never knew before.  Trigger Warning though, Poland went through some hard times during WWII and Hitler, so things might be a bit sad but so much appreciation for the country and people.  The little town of Krakow is super small and incredibly safe.  So explore the main square and hit up all their cute restaurants, vodka tastings, and their bread on wheels.  I would recommend taking the train from Krakow to Warshaw.  It was a great easy scenic ride.  Warshaw is a little bit bigger but also very easy to get around on foot.  Hit the square and history of the city.  Check out Lazienki Park, followed by some pierogis or their famous barszcz, which is dumplings in red beet broth soup.

SLOVENIA

Slovenia.  One word.  Magical.  I met my friend in Croatia and then we drove to Slovenia and it was just amazing.  Scenic routes galore and super safe.  People are extremely nice and there’s not that many people.  There are endless things to do here in Slovenia. You can visit museums, visit Lake Bled, castles, white water rafting and more.  We chose water rafting because the experience in turquiose waters was one I was never going to be able to do otherwise.  I would recommend to walk around the lake and take photos.  The things you’ll see will surprise you.  Get on a boat or kayak, see the church in the middle of the island up close.  Get in a kayak in the Soca Valley.  Honestly that experience is still fresh in my head because it was so awesome.  Check out the pics below.

AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam is one of my favorite coolest cities. Known around the world for its liberal lifestyle and super chilled out vibe, this city is a fantastic place to hang out on your own.  I didn’t know one person when I entered and left with 3 friends and that’s only staying two nights there.  The canals are yours to explore as you discover the unique culture and nightlife of the city. Rent a bike or just walk around exploring it all and meeting the locals.  There is endless amounts to see here.  Head into as many museums as you can, trust me it’s an experience of a life time.  From Anne Frank, Van Gohg, to the sex museum.  I know.  Really?! Yes when in Amsterdam.  Oh yes and don’t leave the city without trying all it has to offer as in the green and THC we know about.  Also their infused coffees and do not, DO NOT leave the city without trying one of their famous waffles with sauce of choice!

 

 

Follow Me on IG at @carlaloren xoxo

 

Now that I am 35 weeks, I REALLY can tell for myself what works and what doesn’t when it comes to skincare during pregnancy.  Of course, everyone is different, bodies are different and hormones are different but  I want to tell you what worked for me and why I love them so much.  Either way, I will continue to use and wear all these products after pregnancy because nothing has worked better.

 

I would give this oil 10/10 stars for improving my skin.  Not only does it go on smoothly but it smells so damn good.  What’s interesting about this oil is that it was one of the first oil to be submitted to clinical trials and proved that it improves the appearance of scars and stretch marks.   I put this on my belly, buttocks, and breasts after a shower in the morning and night.  It has lasted me almost my whole pregnancy but that was me not putting as much as I wanted on.  I just want the bottle to be bigger that’s all!  What I love most about Bio‑Oil is that they focus exclusively on research, with the selling and distribution of its products licensed to leading skincare companies around the world.  BUY HERE

This SPF is my beauty savior.  No joke.  Pre-pregnancy, during and most definitely post-pregnancy.  This is the only tinted moisturized SPF that I can put on my face and not break out.  It’s lovely solo or under any make-up you would want to put on your face.  Elta MD is also such a great reputable brand I could not recommend them enough.   It’s a cosmetically elegant, all mineral, broad-spectrum sunscreen that is formulated to feel smooth and even improve sun-damaged skin.  BUY HERE

I know you are thinking, ok regular water bottle I can just use mine.  Sure, yes you can but it’s so simple and that’s why I love it so much.  It’s lightweight but incredibly sturdy.  It’s BPA free and it’s glass too but if you drop it, it will not break because of the white covering.  The silicone sleeve makes it easy to handle and it moderates temperature which is perfect for juices, water, and smoothies of your choice.  They come in an array of colors too.  Hydration is key for all of us especially us pregnant women but honestly, you won’t be disappointed.  Bonus…..it matches all my outfits and fits in all my day purses.  BUY HERE

Raise your hand if you have way too many lip balms, chapstick and lip glosses and don’t really care too much for them?  That was me until I purchased this lip balm from SummerFridays for myself.  I’m a huge fan of their serum and was curious about their lip balm.  And let me tell you, it’s changed my lips during pregnancy.  During pregnancy it’s normal to experience dryness all over your body and face including your lips so having this handy made my lips incredibly hydrating and silky.  Vegan and clean too! BUY HERE

I love I love I love this product so much.  This belly butter is so luxurious and high quality you’ll never stop using this.  I know I won’t.  It’s literally butter for your skin and smells delicious.  This Body Butter also works as an excellent daily moisturizer to treat common skin conditions like dry skin and patches.  It’s also non greasy and won’t clog your pores. Hypoallergenic, Vegan, Ideal for all skin types, even sensitive skin. I put it all over…..belly, legs, buttocks, feet, arms, you name it.  It’s only $34.00  BUY HERE

Much love, CP x

Follow me on IG at @carlaloren

 

 

 

I love the simple life: I used to be on the go 24/7 and always had to be busy, always had to get done with my to-do list, I walked fast everywhere, and sometimes I wouldn’t even give myself some time for myself in the ladies room. That has all changed completely. I have found my peace and I love my alone time. I never get bored and I find myself that slowing down and taking every breath in and taking my time with tasks actually makes me more productive. Remember, there’s never too much time to get to know yourself.

I am actually a good cook: I’ve always enjoyed cooking but I was just doing it because it made me happy and was calming for me. This time at home has really made me get creative in the kitchen and not be afraid to try out different things. For those of you who know me and/or follow me on social, you do know that healthy foods are apart of my life. Getting into recipes from books, IG, or Pinterest has been my new favorite hobby. You can really make anything you love into a healthy version with some practice and lots of love.

Family, friends, and lovers are life: I’ve always been a family girl. ALWAYS. But this is the first time in 18 years that I have lived in the same state as my parents and close family. It has shown me the tremendous love and support that I have in my life. I went from seeing my parents a couple of times a year to needing to see them every other day. It’s always amazing to have support and love from the closest people because they are what makes a life well worth it. Support from family, friends, and lovers is one of kind and when you have a good support system. Anything and everything is possible. Your support system is still important.

Meditation and Spirituality are a must: I’ve always been a spiritual person and into meditation but I stopped meditating at night and some days during the week recently. I noticed myself becoming uncertain and having negative thoughts and being consumed by negativity when in the past I knew how to switch it all off. Let’s be honest here….life isn’t perfect and we all go through ups and downs, but it’s how we deal with those situations that make the difference. Once I was conscious of what was going on I religiously started to meditate deeply in the mornings and immediately my mindset changed. I turned into that girl I always have been. Faith and positivity came to play and the calming pure mindset helped me during some tough times. Meditation to me is my lifesaver. Without it, I wouldn’t see life as beautiful as it is today.

You don’t need a gym for a good workout: This definitely has been an eye-opener for me. Before quarantine, I wouldn’t last more than 20 minutes on a self workout but now I can work out for hours due to such high-quality high demand workout classes and influencers. Not only can you get creative with cardio but also get creative with weight training as well. Some examples are jump rope, peloton or bike, run, beach walks (sand is harder than you think), swimming, dancing, and YouTube HIIT workouts. Buy some free weights on Amazon or Walmart and do burnout sets. If you want heavier weights you can use furniture/kitchenware at your house for squats, lunges, and arm presses. Possibilities are endless and so much fun.

Doing nothing is OK: I’m pretty tired of the glamorizing of the hustle. Yes, I’m all about hustling and working hard but that doesn’t mean anything if you don’t know how to relax or take time for yourself. The time we spent on our overall health, including sleep, meditation, relaxation, reading books, or simply doing nothing is SO OK. These things are so important for overall stability, energy, and control over your work and personal life. I used to feel so upset with myself when I had extra time or just didn’t do anything for a couple of hours. But now, I embrace it. Balance is key. x

Follow my life adventures and all that jazz @carlaloren

I’m pretty sure I have always loved bathtubs but lately it’s just been taken to another level.  Not really sure if it’s because my parents asked me to help them with renovating their new house, all the traveling I have been doing, or all my ‘self care’ nights with bubbles I’ve been having, but it’s gotten real.  Other than a kitchen, I believe the bathroom is the second best place in a house.  What makes a bathroom amazing?! Yep.  A bomb bathtub.  A place that you can unwind and relax, read your favorite book or just lay there with candles with your favorite tunes all by your gorgeous self.

So I decided to put together some inspiration pages for myself for my own home that I hope to have soon but mostly for my parents so they can get inspired during the renovation.  Here below are some of my current favorites.  Feel free to get yourself in a bathtub and manifest yourself in one of these. x

Much Love, CP

I have an addiction. An addiction I’m ok with but not sure my bank account is.  My addiction is Wholefoods or any health food store.  I enjoy taking long walks down the aisles.  I love healthy food and snacks but I also love finding new companies out there that are good for you but also tasty.  Having to be picky about what I put in my body because of my breakdown of food issues, I have found some of my favorite healthy go to brands that I think you will like too.  Whole Foods, Trader Joes and Sprouts have a host of great products for busy people including plenty of amazing snacking options. Whether you’re looking for something salty or something sweet (or maybe a little of both), there’s no doubt you can find it at these places.

Chomps Free Range Turkey Sticks

My favorite high protein, low calorie clean snack go to.  Real ingredients and they are super tasty.  I always have some handy because they are so easy to track around for a high protein kick.  All other flavors are good too but these are my favorite.  10g of protein // 60 calories

Bhu Foods Protein Bars

Bhu (pronounced “BOO”) is a Sanskrit word that means “of the earth.” It is a sacred trust: honoring the earth that supports all life.  Not only do I love this company because of what they stand for, and their role in not using GMO’s but the taste of their bars are incredibly tasty.  They are clean, non gmo, high protein, soft and chewy.  Just how a protein bar should be.  11g of protein // 200 calories

 

Siete Queso Dip

If you don’t already know, get your car keys ready because you’ll want this in your refrigerator at all times.   What I love about this queso dip is that it only consists of real ingredients, it’s dairy free,  low calorie and it’s incredibly delicious.  I like to eat it with siete chips or crackers but I also love to cut up raw veggies for the best healthy snack.  I can honestly say that Siete family story is so moving but also every single one of their products is worth the talk.  Buy them. You’ll love them. 

Ingredients

Water, Cashews, Tomatoes, Nutritional Yeast, Onion, Green Bell Peppers, Distilled White Vinegar, Jalapeños, Sea Salt, Flax Seed, Fermented Extract (Oregano, Flax Seed, and Plum), Coconut Milk Powder, Lactic Acid, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 30, Total Fat: 2g, Saturated Fat: 0.5g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 200mg, Total Carbohydrate: 2g, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Total Sugars: 0g, Protein: 1g, Vitamin D: 0%, Calcium: 2mg, Iron: 0%, Potassium: 2%

Good Culture Cottage Cheese

I’m so happy to brag about this brand because they believe in eating good, feeling good and surrounding yourself with good.  I’ve always been a huge fan of cottage cheese but I couldn’t find one that had clean ingredients and tasted good.  High in protein, low in calories, thick and creamy.  They never use preservatives, gums, or anything artificial, and a portion of their sales goes to a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting regenerative agriculture. 14g of protein // 80 calories

 

 

LA is a mix of different cultures and traditions, and you can have different types of food in every little neighborhood. Those of you that know, this city is like no other when it comes to food.  There are so many places to eat and over plenty of options from different areas and countries of the world to a specific diet you may have.  And while a lot of them are good, we want to make sure that you have all of the great LA beachside restaurants on your radar.

Breakfast

The Fig | The Fairmont Santa Monica

FIG is a beautiful breakfast/brunch destination with its selection of food that has all your morning taste buds covered, including the yummiest of all bloody mary’s or sangria.  Plates are pretty big for one so split the insane Chilaquiles Rojo: Served with cage free eggs, pulled chicken, queso fresco cilantro & red onion.  Sit outside and take in the beautiful surroundings of the most beautiful palms and poolside villas while you eat the freshest and yummiest of foods. 

Lunch

Cafe Gratitude // One of my all time favorites and it NEVER disappoints! They strive to source the highest quality, nutrient dense ingredients from local farmers and the best artisan producers. They believe food is medicine and you honestly eat so great here… taste wise and health wise. You’ll love it.

The Rose // The Rose Venice is an iconic restaurant in the heart of Venice, serving locals and travelers alike since 1979. The community knows and loves the seasonal, globally influenced cuisine. The aesthetic of the restaurant is also to die for. Please note: If you cannot make it for lunch make it for dinner because the evening menu is also damn good.

Gjusta // First things first, this place is amazing. Like the Venice neighborhood itself, the terrace is both comfortable, chill, and beautiful. Pull up a seat at a mismatched common table and just enjoy good company over really, really delicious food. Gjusta is the bakery arm of Venice Italian restaurant Gjelina, (one of my favs) there’s plenty of gluten-free options too if that’s what you are looking for. I would definitely choose this place if you’re looking for a trendy space and also a satisfied belly.

Erewhon // The supermarket of my dreams right here. You will probably spend more money than ever before but it will be so worth it. Here, you can walk down the aisles of this health store and you don’t have to read a single nutrition label. You can freely throw items in your cart, fill it up and know that there is not one single drop of processed sugar, artificial flavor or corn syrup (high fructose or otherwise). Everything you could possibly purchase is clean  and as close to the source as you can get without getting your clothes dirty. The next best part of this place?! You can eat there too. Fresh, Clean, Colorful Healthy yummy food. Makes me hungry even talking about it.

Cava // If you want a quick and easy stop for a meal, go here. Simple. Fresh. Good stuff is served at Cava. The best ingredients that include farm fresh veggies, meats, and sauces are made here and you can make your bowl out of them. Definitely my go to for a quick healthy bite with flavor satisfying food.

Dinner

Yours Truly | Abbot Kinney

I don’t even know where to begin with this place. Absolutely my favorite restaurant right now and I’ll be surprised if someone beats the no.1 status anytime soon. Every single thing we ordered was spectacular and every single bite was better than the next. From the most simple tomato salad and house bread to their perfectly cooked buttery scallops on top of sunflower risotto, was mind blowing. You know that moment where you eat your first bite of something marvelous and you never forget about it?! That’s how every single item on the menu is like. We were so amazed by everything that we instantly were like, yup. This place is LEGIT. So please if you live in LA or are visiting, put Yours Truly on the very top. Your food baby will be worth it.

After reflecting on my travels these past couple of months I realized there are things I could leave behind and some things I really do need to make my wanderlust life easier.  I get asked all the time what my top must have’s are so here they are.  These six essentials are a must for myself and I think would be very much appreciated by you too.  If you are traveling for a 15 plus hours on a plane or even a two hour flight…these will be your babies every time you get on that transit.  *Note: Click the link to buy 🙂

The Weekender | Away

If you don’t already know, now you know.  The away bags are nothing like you’ve ever had before.  They are long lasting, durable, stylish and the CEO of the company is a total inspiring boss babe.  Once you’ve owned one of these, you will never go back.  I have had lots of experience with different travel bags and different brands and nothing compares to these.  Do yourself a favor and get you one.  You’ll love me forever. 😉

Silk Travel Set | Calpak

I definitely love a good neck pillow but they are hard to come by.  Im a huge fan of this travel set because it’s lightweight, silk and it’s easy on the hair and skin.  These neck pillows get pretty dirty traveling and being put on not so clean spaces but Calpak makes these easy to clean as well.  Let’s also mention that it’s Rose Gold which I’m a huge sucker for.  Because it’s silk, it will also feel semi cool on your skin.  Probably a bit pricier than usual but it’s totally worth it.

Comfy Kicks | Stanley Smiths

Wherever you may travel to you need some closed toed comfy sneakers.  You need a pair that will go with almost anything in your closet and everything that you will be packing.  My Stanley Smith’s are actually one of my all time favorite travel staples because they are comfortable AF, stylish and they can be dressed up or down.  You can wear them with jeans, shorts or even dresses.  Walk or run all day in them.  They are my favorites for 4 years now and probably for another 4 too. Pretty sure they be in style for years to come.

Packing Cubes 

Packing Cubes.  What a traveling life saver.  I literally could have not survived traveling for six months with my backpack without these things.  You can literally fill up one cube with a weeks wardrobe and more.  Every single person who travels at least once a year needs these.  They save space, helped you stay organized and they’re cute as hell.  Boys, there are also some for you on Amazon.  I got you. 😉 Anndddd the breathable mesh front lets you easily identify what’s inside.

Foam Roller Water Bottle | Mobot

I have no words for this water bottle.  We all know the importance of staying hydrated but also what’s better than staying hydrated and getting your muscles and body in tune for your next workout.  This baby does it all.  The reason why I love this so much is also because after a couple of hours traveling you want to stretch out and get your body back to normal.  What’s better than to have access to a foam roller at all times?! The smaller diameter is perfect to carry with you as it fits most backpack sleeves and gym equipment. It’s one of my all time favorite things at the moment.  Get yourself one.

Mini Steamer | Sunbeam

We all know that moment when you finally get to your destination and all your clothes are wrinkled and then you realize the Airbnb doesn’t have an iron or the hotel you’re at has one but then you have to get out the iron board, get a table for the iron, etc, etc. We don’t have time for that! 🙂 I love my Sunbeam mini steamer because it doesn’t take up much space in my luggage and it works so damn good.  You save time, energy and space.  If you don’t have one already please invest in one.  It’s the best $25 dollar purchase you’ll ever make.  You’re welcome.

Much love always, x

CP