If you are planning on going to a New Years Eve party, more than likely you want to dress up. And if you are dressing up you (more than likely) have your outfit all planned. Well... here are some hair and makeup ideas to inspire you.
I hope you all have a Merry Christmas. Well... if you haven't noticed the year is almost over! I hope everyone had a great year filled with great experiences and great people. Although this year has been stressful for me in many ways, I did have a great time.
So let's talk about something fun...beauty products! I thought up some of my favorite beauty products I have used this year. (Hopefully I have all of them). I tend to be the type of person who finds a routine or product that I like and sticks to it; meaning, I will most-likely continue using these products into next year.
Creamy gold eyeshadows. I have been very much into creamy gold eyeshadows this year. The consistency is perfect for those rushed mornings, when you just want to slap something onto your eyelids and be out the door (looking good of course).
Nude nail polish. This has been a personal staple of mine, and it probably will be for a very long time. Nude nails are nice, understated, classy and versatile.
L'Oreal BB cream. Ok I know I am probably one of the last people to try out BB cream; but I picked this one up and I love it.
Hope in a Jar cream. This is one of my favorite face creams of all time. The consistency is very light and whipped. The smell is very light and clean. The formula works like a charm and is not greasy. Need I say more?
Lip-liners. This year I have discovered the importance of lipliners. Haha
Dusty rose lipsticks. I finally found my go-to lipstick shades for my olive skin! I also learned that I can never wear straight up pink lipstick.
Clay masks. I have always been a mint julep mask person but I have been changing it up.
If you haven't read the name of this post...I'm back. I have been missing in action to say the least. I haven't had any time to blog this semester. This semester was more than hectic, and I was more than happy to say goodbye to it!!
I'm glad to say that you will be seeing regular posts from me now; because I have some time to breathe and blog!
Planning on going all out for Halloween? Need something last minute? (I understand). If you you don't want to go out and buy a costume (if there are any left), makeup is a fun way to dress up without really "dressing up". Also if you are dressing up makeup definitely completes the look. Halloween makeup is a chance for you to be super-creative and crazy (without being judged for it). Here are some inspiring makeup looks for you.
Fall to me is accessory time because you get to wear a variety of cute accessories to make your look, without freezing while doing it (Winter). I know that we are well into fall already, and I have already become reacquainted with some of my favorite fall items, but I thought this would make for a nice little post.
I don't know about you but here are my fall must haves :) ....
A portable thermos/mug. For tea of course! Tea is a perfect companion for a morning comment to class.
A beanie... for a "rather blustery day". Also a nice scarf is nice.
Booties. I bought myself a couple this season and I have been loving them. I usually wear tall boots, but it is good to switch it up; especially when the weather permits.
Leather jacket. This is one of the top must haves for the season (and it should be it)!
Dark lip color. I need must go shopping for one. Not too dark though! Any suggestions?
Here is a nice fall makeup look. This look is like a nice fall twist on this look that I did a couple posts ago. The main difference is the added neutral eyeshadow and and a bit of bronzer. Also if you want to make this look even more fall like add a darker color lipstick (than the one pictured). Maybe a wine color? I the cool thing that this whole look is based off of the lipstick so you can have fun with your choice of lip color here!
What color lipstick would you wear with this look?
We've all been there where are wallowing in your own sorrow, it doesn't seem that way to you but to others it can. I am not talking about genuine warranted sadness here, (or even clinical depression) just a random type that creeps up on you. When we are caught in a pickle out problems seem enormous and if we are too caught up with ourselves everything seems to be a problem (make sense?). If we are caught up in ourselves we tend to make little problems into huge ones because we can't see anything else. It is a concept that is a bit hard to explain, but we are almost all guilty of it (me included) once it a while. We need to just snap out of it!
Although you can be forced to snap out of it by facing a bigger problem, that isn't something we really want. So here are some ways to get out of your rut and get some perspective!
Listen to music: This can either make things better or worse. Do not listen to sad music it will make you more depressed. Sometimes I listen to sad music when I am depressed and it usually adds nothing to the cause. Listen to happy music or relaxing music (maybe even some rainforest sounds or something haha).
Watch a funny movie: sometimes it can be hard to find a comedy that actually makes you laugh especially when you are in a funky mood but find an old favorite.
Read: take yourself into another universe with your favorite characters. :)
Go outside! This is my personal favorite. Go outside and do something, anything. A change of scenery is sometimes all I need. Even if you run some errands at least you will feel accomplished.
Talk to someone: Go see what someone else is up to and maybe vent a bit.
I saw this dress and I wanted to I had to make an outfit post. I love the color and the lace! If only the top was a little less sheer (in the bust area). Due to the dress, the makeup must be classy and closer to the understated side. I think the look that the model is wearing would be great for it, because it doesn't look to overdone. It is just the right amount of makeup for the look and the updo is just perfect.
Considering I haven't posted in a long while I suppose it is time for a "Let's Chat"...
I as you have imagined, I have been extremely busy. I had tons of studying to do for four exams. On top of that I had to study while I was under the weather. Well now I am free!... Sort of... I have another exam next week, but today I decided to make blogging a priority.
Since I spent the whole week studying. I am going to offer some advice for when you are overwhelmed with tests; or just overwhelmed in general.
Organize. Know your due dates/deadlines. Personally, I love using a physical planner and really don't like using my phone. There is just something about using a physical planner to see everything laid out, that makes me feel more organized; I update it religiously and I hardly would ever check or update dates on my phone. If the phone works for you fine. But if you really have a ton of things to juggle I recommend an old school planner.
Prioritize. For example, when you are faced with many exams (especially if they fall only in a couple of days) you must plan how you are going to study! Yes it is a must. As soon as possible plan out what you will study (and how) you will study each day. Here are some questions to think about when prioritizing : Which test is first? Which class is most difficult? What type of studying would best fit the format of this test?
Do not procrastinate. If you have lots on your plate you don't have time for junk. But, that being said, you do have time for breaks... to keep your sanity of course!
Know when enough is enough. In other words don't work indefinitely and go to sleep!
Once everything is said and done give yourself a pampering/relaxing day at the end, you've earned it. (That day is today for me).
Here is a look that is perfect for many occasions from a date, to a cocktail party, to anytime you want to feel fancy. If you want a timeless and flattering makeup look, look no further!
Here is a little book review for you all; I figured that I might as well do one before the movie is released in October (although I finished the book a while ago). Since this is already buzzed about book, I decided that I might as well give my take on it so if you want to read it you can decide for yourself, hopefully before the movie comes out! (Don't worry this is completely spoiler free).
I am just going to go off on a tangent for a second... This may seem a bit odd but I hate when I am reading a book when it is in the theaters or after it was in the theaters (bleh)! If I read that close to the premier I feel like I'm just reading it because it is popular or because there is a movie. Also I can't stand books that get movie covers on them, I prefer the original cover without the actor's face slapped on it. Anyone with me, or I am I alone on that issue?
Here is a summary: On Amy and Nick's (Ben Affleck) fifth wedding anniversary Amy (Rosamund Pike) goes missing. Due to signs of a struggle in their house and Nick's lack of honesty with the police, Nick is prime suspect. Nick claims he is innocent... Is he?
The good:
I am going to admit that I really really enjoyed reading this novel. The novel is written from alternating perspectives from both Nick Dunne and Amy Elliot Dunne. Flynn's writing style is captivating and she does a fantastic job fleshing out the characters. And there are so many plot twists I was taken on a roller coaster ride and at points I started to believe that everything I knew was a lie! In the book, Amy makes interesting and thought provoking comments on society and relationships in today's age (which definitely is something to think about during and after your read of the book).
The bad:
(This is so hard not to spoil anything)! I will say that the only thing I had a problem with with was the ending. I felt that the ending was a bit flat (compared to the rest of the novel), and it felt a bit forced. I was very disappointed with the ending. But... I hear that the ending may be told a bit differently in the movie.
Overall:
I think this is a great book if you are along for the ride. Flynn's writing style is great and dimensional in a sense that, she writes differently to portray different perspectives (Amy and Nick). This is definitely a book to read in a book club or with a friend because there is so much to discuss. (Warning: this is not a book for children).
Will I go see it in the movies? Yes! I hope it does the book justice!
Anyone else read this book? Planning to see the movie/read it?
I hope you all are enjoying this nice weather. I got this dress from Daily Dazzle Deals. I think it is great for a night out. I really like the abstract floral design. It seemed to run approximately one size larger so unfortunately I could not model it... But I got a friend to!
It just occurred to me I have never done a "Get the Look" post (per-say). Anyway here is a nice monochromatic look that doesn't look too Summery and not too fall like; which is perfect for right now! Also I love how this look is monochromatic without being too boring. You can change it up if blue isn't your thing you might do the same look with another subtle shade like lavender/purple or pink (if you choose something too bright you'll give it more of a summery look).
It is Labor Day so you know what that means... the unofficial end of Summer. I have been wearing a lot of dresses this past season. I am adding one more to my collection and hopefully I get a chance to wear it before it becomes frigid out!
Here is a little collection of Summer dresses... to inspire you for next year I guess. Go ahead and break the rules though wear your Summer dresses into the fall by pairing them with boots or a jean/leather jacket.
Here is a dress that I am adding to my collection from Daily Dazzle Deals.
It's been a while since I did a post like this so here we go.
Signature fragrance. I'd like to get a new everyday skin fragrance... not too light... not too dramatic.
Get a mineral foundation. I know, I know. What kind of beauty blogger doesn't own a mineral foundation? ME. Well I've tried one before and it was discontinued; I never recovered (just kidding). I want a mineral foundation because I very rarely wear liquid foundation and I really don't want to break out. Anyone try bare minerals? I might invest in that.
New everyday makeup. Since high school I have been doing a simple cat eye and running out the door. I really think it is time for a change (especially since my favorite eyeliner was discontinued). Maybe I'll wear more eyeshadow on a daily basis; something natural looking of course, so I don't get lazy half way through the semester.
I named this post "hair talk" because there is a high probability that I will start rambling (I don't know where I will end up) :P. Let me start by saying the cliche "embrace what you've got". I know saying that is so corny, but there has to be a reason why it is said all of the time. It is so easy to look over the fence and be wowed by what other people have (which is ok) and change it up to try new things (which is also ok) then end up hating where you started (which is NOT ok). "Embrace what you've got"; easier said than done. I am not going to sit here and tell you how extremely self confident I am and how I have always loved my features. I am not going to say that there wasn't a time where I prayed that my curls would magically loosen, because "everyone loves girls with wavy/straight hair". I'm not going to tell you that I don't have anything I need to work on. Why? Because that would be a lie.
I think when you are a teenager it is so easy to wish something about you was different. Wishing that something about you was different can lead to you trying things that just don't work for you. Just think back at your teen years and you'll probably remember an awkward phase you went through, where you decided to try out a hairstyle or makeup trend that didn't suit you. That is ok because not everything suits everybody. For example, I do not look good with super straight hair, because of my face shape, I think it makes me look sad (lol). It is completely fine to experiment with looks. I am not saying to stay the same way forever, that would be boring. What I am saying is that even if you change things up you still have to go back to and face the way you really are (eventually), and most of all you have to be fine with it. Also, facing the way you really are doesn't mean jus giving up and not trying, it means "working with what you got" (more cliches, yes I know). For example, if your hair is curly, like me, find out the right products and routine to get your curls the best they can be. Finding out what works for you may not be easy but it is worth it! If you can work with what you got, not only will you get props from me, you will feel liberated!
Be the best YOU can be!
So here is a collection of hairstyles to inspire you...
Well I did ramble a bit but I don't think I went too off topic.
Also this doesn't only apply to hair it, can apply to any of your features. I just mentioned hair because it was my example.
If you have ever disliked one of your features and came to love it I would LOVE to hear about it!
I was refolding some of my clothes in my closet, when I came across an old blouse that I had bought only for the beaded bib collar. I remember thinking to myself: "I don't care for the shirt but that piece would be useful...one day." Luckily, the blouse was cheap and I kept it in a special place in my closet until it was time to use it for a project... One year later... it was time to get down to business.
I went searching around for something to enhance with the beaded bib, with the ultimatum I had given myself: "find a use or say goodbye." To be honest, I knew I would find a use. :) As you can see I decided to put it on this pink little dress. I had only worn the pink dress once and thought that: "although it was nice it was kind of plain and in need of a belt or something"... the rest was history.
I thought it would be fun to make a post out of it so here it is. It is really easy to do and you can let your imagination go wild with all of the possibilities. If sewing isn't your forte I included a step by step.
All you will need are...
Pins
Needle and thread
Scissors (if necessary)
And of course the the two pieces you will sew together.
Place the collar straight so that it is just right and pin all the way across. If you are new to sewing, pins make sure that everything is in place and makes sure the fabric doesn't slip when you sew (but you probably already knew that).
Sew away... but make sure your stitches are straight. Because I sewed so close to the neckline I had to take extra care in my stitching.
That's the finish product! Now if only I had somewhere to wear it!
Where would you wear this dress?
Do you feel like modifying or up-cycling any of your clothes?
I really admire vintage beauty and fashion which, is why I love dresses from the 1950's, they are feminine and classy. It seems like everything was super classy back then. Have you ever looked at a yearbook from around 1950's or so? All of the girls looked like movie stars! Not a strand of hair is out of place and their makeup is just right! Props to anyone who takes that much care of themselves it can be a heavy work load.
Feast your eyes on these dresses!
What is your favorite decade for fashion? By the way... stay tuned for another dress post! ;)
Sorry I haven't posted in a while. I have been away, I actually just got back in town a couple hours ago. I was on vacation and chilling out on the beach (doing some resting and refreshing, I suppose). It is so good to get away sometimes, which is why I love trips and vacations so much. I realize that not everyone has the option of going on vacation. Here are some ways to "rest and refresh" without having to pack your bags.
Take a bubble bath
Read a book
Do your hobbies or find new ones
Stay away from social media for a while (at least a day).
Turn off your phone for a whole day
Turn off your computer for a day
Listen to whatever music you find relaxing
Give yourself a facial
Cook or something that smells wonderful and of course tastes great too!
Or do all of the above for an incredibly relaxing day!
Personally I like to get up early so I have the whole day ahead of me to relax or do whatever, but if you like to sleep thats ok too.
Also I highly suggest turning your phone, computer or social media devices especially if you find it impossible to do so (stop the addiction).
Here is another Let's Chat for you...#20. There always seems to be something special about the number twenty, kind of like an accomplishment of sorts. Well speaking of accomplishments. My blog is just over one year old! Yes, this little old blog of mine blew out it's pixel-y birthday candles a few days ago on July 23. (I guess this is a bit of a late post).
I started up this blog as a hobby. I had originally planned on doing reviews and fashion posts mostly. Although fashion is still a big part of my blog I haven't really done many reviews; but I've done a couple series's I have been proud of including a Christmas series and Disney Princess series (and of course the whole let's chat thing). When I first started blogging I was a bit of a "shy blogger", in a sense that, my personality didn't show through in my writing as much as I would have liked. Now it is getting pretty easy to post and I feel right at home here on my blog with you guys (as it should be). Also as my blog changed I changed the look around as well and made it look more streamlined. Anyone remember when my blog had the little blue polkadots? I still like polkadots but it was time for a change.
Along the way I have been introduced to some really neat blogs and inspiring from all over the world--how cool is that? I'd like to thank the academy all of my followers for your feed back and motivating me.
If you didn't know, I love the beach! Do you? I can't understand why people don't like the beach... but to each their own I guess. Everyone knows what to bring to the beach but here is a little list of beauty products you might want to toss into your beach bag. Don't forget these essentials.
Hair ties. Don't forget them! Bring more than one because one usually is lost at sea.
lip balm. Nothing dries out your lips like sea water except maybe sucking on a lemon.
Pressed powder. I never bring this to the beach but if you aren't planning on setting foot in the water, you can bring this. If you want to take some pictures and don't want to look shiny, bring this little guy with you. To be completely honest, you really shouldn't worry about shine at the beach...everyone is shiny.
Reapply sun screen. (Duh)
Hair products. Although I don't bother with any sort of makeup I may bring along some type of hair product. Sea salt can be so drying and a moisturizing conditioner may be just what you need. If you are going to go rinse your hair out immediately this may not be necessary but if you are planning a long day you might want to bring this. Bonus: you can put some conditioner (more than you would usually put) in your hair before going out into the sun to give yourself a deep conditioning treatment.