Lorton-based style coach and makeup artist Kara Allan has been helping women of all shapes and sizes define their personal look for a few decades now. As a mom, grandmother and glam-obsessed individual, staying at home during quarantine has been a challenge; however, it hasn’t stopped her from prioritizing all things beauty, style and self-care while working with clients remotely.
Here, Allan walks us through her latest purchases for the home, skin-care obsessions and habits that have been keeping her calm during these unprecedented times. Find highlights from our conversation below.
On a now-typical day:
I’m styling my house and my beauty routine. I’ve been spending oodles of time redecorating, organizing and cleaning. I’ve created two sugar scrubs which are now in my Etsy shop! Next I’ll be making bath bombs.
On what shopping looks like today:
I’ve been shopping way more; somebody needs to stop me.
I’ve become the queen of gadgets! I have three different Echos, the Original, the Spot and the Dot—crazy, I know. Also, since I’ve been spending so much time in my room I have an air purifier, humidifier, a facial steamer and now a diffuser because I love essential oils. Lemongrass lightens up my mood instantly. I have also spruced up my living and dining area by replacing some art, getting two new rugs, buying a buffet and coffee table. I’ve also bought art for my room and a bed frame for my daughter’s room. Plus, a new makeup organizer for my bathroom.
I have been reading more than I ever have and I bought books for my grandchildren too to keep them occupied and engaged since they’re not going outside as much. Also flowers, candles and everything I need to do my own nails. I purchased the gel dryer, the nail polish, the nail drill and the polish remover.
On WFH attire:
I love Peace Love World pajamas and Target’s Stars Above, they’re really comfy and depending on the temperature I have a pair that keeps me warm or cool. No loungewear would be complete without my unicorn slippers too.
On appreciating self-care:
I recently discovered Dr. Perricone’s regimen and my skin loves it. My favorite Chanel perfume and my MAC glitter has been key, because a girl’s got to have her sparkle! MONAT Rejuvenique oil is a gift from heaven for everything. My friend is a Rodan and Fields rep and she put me onto lash boost too; stay tuned for the results. I make sure I take a Cleopatra bath complete with bubbles, bath oil, Epsom salt and a bath bomb at least two to three times a week too—it’s a must. I also work out at least four to five times a week, and spend time with my pod of COVID-free peeps!
On must-shop sales right now:
ASOS is killing the game right now and probably my debit card as we speak, and Overstock for anything you need in your house. Both run sales and coupons all day every day.
On what she’ll wear post quarantine:
All of my outfits—probably all the same day. And definitely the shoes.
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