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Monday, February 24, 2014

5 Spring Staples

     
      1.     If you read my last article, I talked about how graphic tees are coming
back in style. They are super chic and classic and can be worn with about anything from shorts to midi skirts to leather leggings to high-end looking jewelry. Graphic tees are the perfect casual-chic find for this spring. Pair it with a floral or bright cardigan for an important meeting or a skirt and wedges for a flirty date night! Play off the Céline craze! Célfie!

2.     These Ray Bans are a little different than the rest. The aviators are the most popular style of Ray Ban purchased. The newest “mirror and flash” lenses are extremely popular among fashion bloggers and celebrities. These green mirror lenses are so fun for spring and summer. They can be a bit pricey, but are definitely worth the investment over the generic lookalike. These will add a bright pop of color to your outfit and would look perfect with the graphic tee!

3.     Butter London Lippy Liquid Lipstick is always a go-to. This opaque, bright
orange-coral Lippy in Jaffa is the perfect shade for the spring. They come in several other colors to style with your outfit of the day. They are a little more expensive than your average lip-gloss, but this is a great buy because it will stay on longer than the average lip-gloss.

4.     Kendra Scott earrings are a spring essential! Their new Alexandra and Alex collection is a big hit! These Alex in Abalone Shell Kendra’s are a proud addition to my jewelry box. The other most popular Alexandra style is in Magenta. Yes, a vibrant and playful stone! You won’t want to be caught without these, but I won’t stop you at just these. Also, take a peak at the neon collection! The summer slogan might as well be “If it isn’t neon it shouldn’t be on.”

5.     Tan sandals are a must for this spring! They go with any color obviously and

again, would look great with all the above! These Tory Burch Miller Sandal in Rose Gold Metallic are the perfect color to dress a casual outfit up a tad bit. The color just sounds fancy! It’s a comfortable staple for sunny days and an effortlessly polished alternative to the basic flip-flop. I know I highlighted Tory Burch, but another sandal go-to is Jack Rogers Thong Sandal in Platinum. These beauties have a whip stitched trim detail in a hand-laced style, also dressing up a casual spring outfit.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Holy Chic

If you’ve been following other fashion blogs for a while like myself, you know this statement to be true: If one blogger has it, chances are ten other bloggers have it as well. This applies to the Kate Spade totes, studded Valentinos, and the arm parties c/o Bauble Bar and DY to name a few.

Another trend that I am going wild for is the graphic tee. Yes, the trend that sent us running for the hills in middle school is finally growing on me. Graphic tees are everywhere. Whether they’re extra long, cropped, baggy, you name it. You can rock a graphic tee out on the town on those days you really don’t feel like trying, but still want to look cute for the guy behind you at Starbucks. And everyone knows it to be true: You mostly only see people you know when you are dressed a mess, but you never run into old friends when you're dressed cute. 






Graphic tees are a chic and classic trend I fell in love with. I could wear one every day, mixing and matching it with almost anything. It is one of those essential items that should be in your closet, one you can dress up or down. Many of the graphic tees I find are trendy with a modern French twist.

So how do you style the oh-so-coveted graphic tee?

You can pair graphic tees with jeans of any color for that perfect casual outfit. For these last winter to spring days we have left, pair it with a motor leather jacket or leather leggings. For a more spring look, pair it with a bright colored cardigan or denim jacket, for the effortless look. You can still show taste and style by the way you mix them. Mixing and matching a graphic tee with a fitted blazer, midi skirt or high-waist denims, is all the fun you can have while showing off your personality.

Add high-end accessories or very fun flirty jewelry from Francesca’s, a fabulous pair of shoes and viola! While it’s casual and sporty, this kind of t-shirt is the chicest basic there is. Some boutiques or online stores that sell them are:

·      Madewell
·      Kate Spade
·      Wildfoxcouture.com
·      Tobi.com
·      Nastygal.com
·      Gojane.com
·      Forever 21 


I dare you to be bold and creative and let your imagination run wild beyond the fashion trends and make a statement with a new graphic tee.




Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Beauty on a Budget

Ipsy Glam Bag for January 2014

This is my third Ipsy glam bag to receive, and I like sharing the products with my readers. My previous two bags have been awesome! When you subscribe, you receive a makeup bag filled with 4-5 products every month for just $10! The surprise of not knowing is so fun to me! Join me and subscribe to Ipsy at http://www.ipsy.com/r/17j2.

January's theme was "19 Reasons" and contains five products, shown above. From Ipsy: "19 reasons to make it an amazing new year, a million reasons to be a beautiful new you!"

The Products:

"Repair and treat dry, damaged and breaking hair with Don't Despair, Repair! deep conditioning mask. Fortified with ultra-hydrating avocado, sweet almond & argan oils, strengthening keratin protein, power-conditioning rose hip oil, soothing aloe, and super hair-essential vitamins B5, D, A, E, and biotin. This unique complex of targeting ingredients helps increase hair elasticity and moisture to prevent breakage, promotes healthy shine and luster, and replenishes strength."

Although I probably should, I have never used a deep conditioner on my hair. I have long thick hair, so it takes a little longer for my hair to be damaged, but if this works as a preventative - GREAT! I will definitely try this deep conditioning mask within this next week. The ingredients inside of this product seem absolutely amazing!

"The ultimate gel pencil that's smooth like butter and packed with deliciously creamy colors. These velvety pencils glide on with ease, and contain just enough shimmer. They're also waterproof and perfect to wear all day and night, a must have for all color lovers!"
           

I have not ever used a pencil eyeshadow before, so this will be a different concept of blending for me. I love a little shimmer, but not too much. The sample size received in the Ipsy bag is pretty small, so I hope the product does not break while using. The color seems okay. I also am not sure if I like the fact that you have to sharpen this product like an eyeliner pencil, but we will see. I do not think that I would purchase this product for the price since it is just one color. I use the Urban Decay Naked palettes (yes they are $52, but you receive 12 quality shadows that are well worth the investment.)

"Nourish Organic's Lightweight Moisturizing Face Lotion provides continuous moisture throughout the day while replenishing essential skin nutrients. The advanced, non-greasy formula is also rich in vitamins and antioxidants to boost skin's defenses and leave skin healthier and younger-looking every day. 100% Natural. USDA-Certified Organic. Fragrance-Free. Alcohol-Free. Ultra gentle for sensitive skin."


I think moisturizers make a world of difference to prevention of aging. If you start young (or now) wrinkles will be finer later on. I currently use St. Ives with collagen and elasticity, but I am willing to put that down for a few days to try this sample. I don't know if I will purchase this product after for $22 when I only pay $5 max now, but maybe worth a try! The Moroccan Argan Oil will hydrate and replenish skin, rosewater evens out skin tone and smooths texture, while shea butter locks in moisture and improves skin's elasticity.

"MicaBeauty's 24 hour Tinted Lip Balm conditions your lips without smudge while delivering sophisticated finish. For a sheer wash of color, one swipe is all you need. For a bolder pout, simply apply another swipe and this lip balm will create lips every woman covets. Kiss-proof and smudge-proof!"



I really do love lip shade, whether it be lipstick, gloss, or balms, so I am excited to try this. However, I really wish they had small brush applicators to go with them, so that the shade does not stain my fingers. The color is great and I can't wait to try it. I don't think I would pay $30 for this product though. No offense to MicaBeauty, but I would personally rather pay $6 more for a YSL lipstick. 

Proactiv+ | Mark Fading Pads - Part of the Complete Kit $39.95
"The Proactiv+ Mark Fading Pads are a convenient, single-use, no-rinse peel pad that can instantly boost your skin's glow and radiance. The pads help remove dead skin cells to unclog pores and remove dull layers to reveal newer, smoother, more even toned skin. With just a few quick swipes you can help fade away post acne dark marks, reduce the appearance of fine lines and enlarged pores."

The Mark Fading Pads are part of the Proactiv+ Complete Kit along with the Eye Brightening Serum and new 3-step System: Skin Smoothing Exfoliator, Pore Targeting Treatment and Complexion Perfecting Hydrator for $39.95 a month. Also, if you order right now (please finish my post first) they are offering a free bonus gift.


Most people have either used or heard of Proactiv+, me included. I love their products and 3-step system. It really worked for me. I started using them around the age of 12 and stopped after about 16. I will occasionally use the system today, but not every day. I really want to try the new formula and these mark fading pads! The Complete Kit seems like such a deal!! I could really rave on Proactiv+ and the difference their products made to my skin, but I won't bore you. 

Overall, Ipsy seemed to make this month about new year and new healthy skincare - which is great, but I am not overly crazy about this bag. I do LOVE the Briogeo hair mask and Proactiv+ face pads, so I am really excited to try these. I saw other products that were put into other bags and I have to say that I am quite jealous. I feel that I would have used some of those products over the others, but I guess that is the surprise and hope of getting these Glam bags. Anywho, can't wait to try these and see how they work!

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Beauty on a Budget

Ipsy Bag for December 2013
Ipsy has become my favorite guilty pleasure. Last month I received my first bag and it has become so fun waiting to see what you will get! When you subscribe to the Glam Bag, you receive a cute makeup bag filled with 4-5 products every month delivered to your door. It is just $10, shipping included, for these Michelle Phan curated bags! When you sign onto Ipsy, they offer a "Glam Room" where you can peek and see what items are coming in your bag before it arrives. I opt out of this option and wait it out. The surprise is what's fun about it! Join me and subscribe to Ipsy at http://www.ipsy.com/r/17j2.

December's theme was "Celebration" and contains I've great products that I can't wait to try! From Ipsy: "There's always a reason to celebrate! Whether it's buying your first car or welcoming your 2nd grandchild, there's always a reason to get gorgeous and feel glamorous!" 

The Products:

POP Beauty | Bright Up Your Life Eye Shadow Trio in Smokin' Hot - Full Size $24
"This palette of hues adds definition & intensity to lids, creative a broad range of looks that complements all eye colours. From brightening bare to sultry smoke, these hues blend smoothly onto the lid, adding a veil of silky luster that will outlive the day or night!"


I love eyeshadows, so I am really excited to try this one out. It will be perfect for a smokey eye when I go out. I was really hoping to get the brown hues since I wear those colors daily, but this darker one will be fun to try. 

Be a Bombsell | The One Stick in Sunset - Full Size $16
"An all-in-one multiple stick with a smooth texture. Apply to eyelids, cheeks or lips for the perfect pop of color anywhere!"


This product seems really cool since it could be used in three different purposes. I was really hoping for a lighter pink shade, because this seems so dark for my skin to use as a blush. It never hurts to try, so I may decide it works perfect. I will definitely use it as a lip color! 

"The Mirabella Eye Blender Brush fuses eyeshadow to create a naturally sculpted eye. Tapered domed shape provides flawless and easy application. hand-sculpted brush is made with the finest quality materials and features exclusive brushed aluminum ferrule and handle."


I love makeup brushes! I was really excited to see this in my bag, because brushes are so expensive that I hate buying them on my own. I don't really like to use the sponge applicators that come with eyeshadow palettes, so this will be great to use with the POP Beauty eyeshadow trio that I received. It is soft and not plastic-y - great for blending. 

"Salon Perfect Strip Lashes allow every woman to have gorgeous lashes beyond what mascara can offer. Perfectly Natural Strip Lashes give a more natural daytime look."


These lashes seem perfect for day use or maybe a simpler lash for going to a dinner with friends. I know these lashes can be bought from Walmart, but I really love wearing false lashes, so this gives me an opportunity to try this brand that I may have never tried!

"The Big Lip Pencil is a hydrating and vibrant lipstick as well as a sculpting lip liner. It's destined to be in your makeup collection!"


This lip pencil seems like a great color and will be perfect for holiday parties, big events and game days. I love red lipstick and can't wait to try it. If I like the color on me, it's super cheap - seems like a win-win!

I'm really excited to try all these products and can't wait to see what my January Glam Bag holds!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! I can't believe it's already 2014! 

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