Around the Web

Around the Web

The Super Bowl is this weekend. Like I really need to remind anyone. Personally I don't care too much for football ( such a shocker I know :)) but I do love getting to see all the great commercials and the halftime show. Will you be watching this weekend?

1. Pretty much everyone has some…. that unsightly thing called cellulite. I came across this article on dry brushing and the benefits it has with reducing cellulite. I'm sold!

2. We are right in the middle of my favorite time of year… AWARDS SEASON! I love seeing all the starlets dressed to impress and all the impeccable hair and make up . I thought this behind the scenes look at golden globes make up was fascinating!

3. I have always heard that George Clooney was a prankster and this one he pulled on Matt Damon is brilliant!

4. How many words do you know? Test out your vocab HERE.

5. An amazing article about a 36 year old man’s experience with being diagnosed with lung cancer.

January Julep Maven Box Review

January Julep Maven Box Review

A couple years ago I signed up for the Julep Maven subscription box. For 20 dollars a month you get new products related to nail care and just recently they started venturing into make up and skincare as well. I have tried several types of  monthly subscription services and typical am dissatisfied for the price I pay for the sample I receive. With Julep you aren't getting samples you are getting full size products. You can check out your box before you are charged so if you don't like the contents you have the option to skip that month. If you are interested in signing up you can check it out here.

This month was all about nail care. I received a cuticle oil, quick dry drops, and a cuticle softener/remover.

1. Essential Cuticle Oil - This oil smells amazing. Having this cold weather and a freezing office has really led to dry hands and cuticles. I have only used it a few times and I think a little more time will tell if this one will be a real keeper. It was featured on WhoWhatWear and Real Simple magazine too. This has an easy roller ball application which makes it easy to keep in your purse or on your desk for easy use.

2. Ta Da Quick Dry Drops - This will be a new staple for me. I always have the hardest time with not smudging my wet nails. In the past I resorted to using the old school aerosol nail polish drying spray. This works even better and conditions your cuticles at the same time with all the good ingredient's it contains.  I highly recommend this for any girl on the go!

3. Vanish Cuticle Softener and Remover -  I have never had any real issues with my cuticles but of course they do need upkeep every now and then. After one use of this I could really tell how soft my cuticles were I could really see this product working for someone who has ragged cuticles. I'm really interested to see how this will continue to work!

Evening Skincare Routine

Evening Skincare Routine

You can check out my morning routine here.

1. Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash – Exfoliating is an important step in any skincare routine and this one has a fine grain texture that is gentle enough to use daily. Exfoliating before I use night treatments allow for serums and moisturizers to perform their best. Its also a great product for sensitive skin.

2. Hope in a Jar Night -I love this night cream! Its a more intensive formula than the regular Hope in a Jar. Its a thick cream that does not make you oily and absorbs fast. I must for warn the smell isn't very pleasant. I see this working well on any skin type!

3. Microdelivery Dual Phase Peel - This is a two step in-home peel that helps resurface damaged skin. I use this product once a week and it leaves my skin smooth and radiant. Its like having a spa treatment at home.

4. Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil  –  An oil product can be scary but it truly works to combat oily skin and dry skin. I would recommend using this at night as it does look very heavy and greasy but you wake up with supple perfectly moisturized skin. a bonus is this can be used in your hair as well.

5. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion  –  This is a simple to use miracle worker product, you put one dab on any blemishes and the next morning its vanished. This is not a lie! Hands down the best product to combat those nasty little spots that pop up. Its my secret weapon!

6. Drink up Intensive Overnight Mask  -  I only use this when I feel extra dry,  (maybe after a night out of drinking and my skin needs some extra help). If you have really dry skin I have heard of some using this as a regular moisturizer. But I use it about once a week.

Night Time Skincare Routine by jenniferrbates on Polyvore

Morning Skincare Routine

Morning Skincare Routine

I thought I would share my updated skincare routine with everyone. Today will be my morning routine and tomorrow will be my evening routine. Before I start I should probably give you a better idea of my skin type. I am typically oily/combination being more oily in the summer and more combination in the winter. Obviously this being winter most of my products are more hydrating then what I would use in the summer. So let’s get started!

1. Purity Made Simple – This is a great all in one face wash that cleanses, tones, and removes makeup all in one. over the years I have gone back to this wash several times after trying out other brands. Its effective and the price won’t break the bank. You can even find these in jumbo size at QVC.

2. Clear Proof Blemish Control Toner - Now I know that I said my face wash acts as a toner but sometimes I still feel the need to apply a toner separately. If I feel my skin is extra oily or that a break out is imminent then I like to use Clearproof. I picked this up on a whim a couple months ago from a friend who sells Mary Kay and actually really love it! It does its job without being too harsh or drying on my skin.

3. Make a Difference + Rejuvenating Treatment Lotion - On days that I am feeling dry I like to use Make a difference + instead of the clearproof toner. It adds an extra bit of moisture to the skin and makes your skin feel very balanced (which is the whole point of a toner anyway right?). This gets high marks from me and I will be definitely be repurchasing when I run out!

4.Ginzing Refreshing Eye Cream – I don’t have terrible dark circles or puffiness but when I want add brightness under my eyes this is my go to product. I raved about it in my 2013 favorites too!

5. Make a Difference + Rejuvenating Moisturizer - This is my go to during the winter when my face is extra dry. This moustirizer while a heavy formula absorbs quickly and doesnt leave you feeling greasy. I would highly recomend this to anyone with very dry skin. If you have very oily skin this probably wont work for you. I myselft would only be able to use this in the winter.

6. Hope in a Jar - This is a wonderful everyday mouisturizer, it works well with my combination skin keeping it from being to dry but also controls my more oily t-zone. This also wears really well under my foundation which is a huge plus!

Recent Purchases: Ulta

Recent Purchases: Ulta

If you haven’t noticed a trend yet, a great sale is the demise of my bank account. Just the other day I was telling myself I should be putting more of my money into savings when an email from Ulta slyly made its way into my email with a 20% off coupon. As usual I had to pick up some goodies. Ill give a quick over view of what I picked up and save more in-depth reviews of the products once I have tested them out. I should also mention that the Sexy Hair line was buy 2 get one free on styling products so naturally that added to my compulsion to purchase these.

1. Big Sexy Hair Powder Play – I have heard about this for a long time, it’s had many rave reviews for adding instant volume to hair. What girl doesn’t want extra volume?

2. Smashbox Wonder Vision Lip Gloss: I actually bought this as a gift over Christmas and seriously loved the color selection so much but at the time was only buying gifts and not spoiling myself. So when I saw this on sale for $14 dollars I added it to my cart in a snap.

3. Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Milk Shampoo and Conditioner – I raved about the leave in conditioner treatment back in my 2013 favorites and since I loved it so much I figured the shampoo and conditioner was probably worth a try.

4. Maybelline Falsies Waterproof Mascara – This was just a re-purchase. It’s one of my favorite drugstore mascaras!

5. Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover – I was in the hunt for a new eye makeup remover since my last bottle of my favorite Lancôme had run out. Maybelline was buy 1 get 1 for 50% off so I figured why not?

6. Straight Sexy Hair – I am always on the lookout for shine sprays, I love having silky shiny hair and this product had high marks on Ulta’s website. The description says this will help fight frizz and keep hair smooth and silky all day long.

7. Big Sexy Hair Flip It Over – Since my favorite sea salt spray is almost empty I figured this would be the perfect time to test out something new. Keeping in the Sexy Hair family this had great reviews and promises to deliver great texture and added volume to any style.

Recent Purchases: Ulta by jenniferrbates featuring haircare

Haircare / Styling product / Gift sets kit / Sexy Hair Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Milk Conditioner | Sexy Hair | brands... / Sexy Hair Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Milk Shampoo | Sexy Hair | brands |... / Sexy Hair Big Sexy Hair Flip It Over Texture Spray | Sexy Hair |... / Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

Around the Web

Around the Web

Snow day! Well sort of! This crazy weather has led to lots of places canceling work and school here in Houston for the day. The company I work for had us come in at noon, got to love sleeping in! I have a busy weekend planned. Tomorrow I have a bridal shower to attend and on Sunday I'm going to the St. Arnold's brewery one pot cook off! What's that you ask? Just a cook off where contestant can only use one pot and must incorporate one of St. Arnold's beers. I’ll be walking around testing out all the food and drinking lots of beer, I went last year and had a blast!

1. I am a huge Leo fan and still can’t believe he hasn’t won an Oscar and sadly I think he might not win this year either. This gave me a good chuckle though! The internet wants leo to win an oscar.

2. I’m not a huge fan of the Bachelor but I do have a lot of friends who love it so much they are a part of a fantasy league! Check out this article about The psychology behind the bachelor.

3. You already know I love fashion so I thought this article was pretty on point. 7 habits of stylish people.

4. As you might already know I love Mindy Kaling she’s is smart at funny and just makes you want to be her best friend. So naturally who wouldn’t want to take some advice from her?

5. It’s always interesting to find out about the different vocabulary that is used around different states and I found this dialect quizto be amazingly accurate! dialect quiz

Recent Purchases:Loft

Recent Purchases: LOFT

I’m not going to lie, looking at this now it seems I went a little neutral crazy when ordering from the LOFT sales. I’m totally fine with it though, neutrals never go out of style or season for that matter so what’s the harm right? A little over a week ago I spotted that LOFT was having an extra 70% off all sale clothing and I just couldn’t pass up a chance to stock up. Do you ever do that? I guess I’m a bit of a compulsive shopper. But I mean really I purchased all the items below for under $100 (pretty good right?). Be sure to keep an eye out for some future outfit posts! 

LOFT beaded top / LOFT beaded top / LOFT button t shirt / Skinny trousers / 3/4 Sleeve Cable Sweater | Loft

The Daily Skimm

theSkimm

If your anything like me then you probably don't watch the news very often. Now I know as an adult I should really watch the news more to stay up to date on current events and what is going on around the world but I just find most news shows to be pretty boring. Recently I found theSkimm an email subscription that sends you the latest news in a quick overview of the most important topics you need to know about. The writing style is knowledgeable with witty headlines that peak your interest. If you want a more in-depth look at the story they share links to other news articles too! I read this every morning while getting ready for work and I honestly love it! I feel like such a responsible adult knowing all the latest news and important events going on around the world! Check out this article on the creators HERE and you can check out theSkimm HERE.

Coffee Table Styling

Coffee Table Styling

I love a well styled coffee table as much as the next interior design buff. I would never say that I am a design pro by any means but I do have a few tips and tricks that can make any ones coffee table look like it came right out of a magazine.

1. Look for inspiration : You can find inspiration for table styling all over the web, but the easiest place is to search on Pinterest of course!

2. Books : Adding a stack of coffee table books will instantly add a chic vibe to your table. They could be about anything, I personally love fashion and interior design books.

3. Add Height : Make sure you add some height into your design it will add visual interest. I used a large glass hurricane to add height to my table with out blocking the view of the TV, and as an added bonus when the candle is lit it adds an instant warmth to the table.

4. Use a tray : Using a tray in your design can add a layering element and if you have a very large table this will help break up the surface and keep it from looking so large.

5. Display a collection: If you have a collection of special objects use your coffee table to display them. Just think you will get to enjoy your favorite objects everyday!


Remember styling your coffee table is personal preference so play around with different arrangements till you find one that you love! Here are some photos of my coffee table. I hope these tips help with your coffee table styling and if you have any great tips leave a comment!

Around The Web

Around the Web

Happy Friday! I’m so glad the week is almost over and I have a 3 day weekend! No real plans yet for the weekend but my grandmother is coming to visit so I am sure the family will be spending some quality time together. The boyfriend also leaves for a business trip to Rome on Monday (and yes I’m pretty bummed I can’t go with) so I’m sure we will hang out with some friends before he leaves. Hope you enjoy my favorite picks from around the web!

              ( In honor of his win at the golden globes... don't worry more eye candy linked below)

1. Buzzfeed has become a favorite source of entertainment lately. Check out these funny pictures of people posing on Splash Mountain .

2. I won’t lie I have become accustomed to a bearded man. In fact I have never seen my boyfriend of over 6 years without one. For all those who like some scruff… check out this eye candy. an ode to the beard.

3. Don’t these look delicious? Im tempted to try and make these sweet apple pretzels this weekend.

4. Shout out to Clutch City: I love my Houston Rockets and this funny video proves why.

5. This article is completely true. Friendships are just as much an important relationship as any other…Why it's smart to court your friends.

2013 Favorites: Random

2013 Favorites: Random

1. The Mindy Project: This show is in its second season and I started watching it last year not to long after it premiered. I have to say that this is hands down my favorite TV show right now. Mindy has a way of touching topics that are everyday true life scenarios with a light-hearted and hysterical tone. She is charming and witty and I can’t get enough of her! My favorite scene so far this year is Danny performing the dance for Aaliyah’s try again. Really who doesn't love some Aaliyah?

2.  Miley Cyrus Bangerz : I know I know when will we stop talking about Miley? Honestly I am not the biggest fan of her image and public persona but I have to say I love jamming out to her newest CD. I am a glutton for catchy radio hits and I’m not even ashamed to admit it.

3.  Gone Girl: I heard a lot of raves about this book for quite a while and when I finally picked it up I was not disappointed. At first the book failed to grasp my attention I found it a bit slow and boring but I am telling you stick through the first couple of chapter you will not be disappointed. This book has it all; it’s sharp, thrilling, sexy and funny.  I can’t wait for the movie to come out and I can totally see Ben Affleck  as Nick Dunne (superb casting, isn’t that the worst when you can’t picture the actor as the character?)

4.  Deborah Lipmann nail polish: This year I have been completely obsessed with gel manicures, having said that when I don’t have the time to go through the process that goes along with gel nails I turn to Deborah Lipmann. Her nail polishes never disappoint. Although they come with a bit heftier price tag they apply beautifully with a rich color and coverage. My favorite color to use is it's raining men.

5. Starbucks Shaken Iced Passion Tea : This is my favorite drink so refreshing and light I’m obsessed. I don’t really ever drink soda or coffee so when I want a break from water this is what I go for. Lucky for me I have a Starbucks in my work café (this is also unlucky for my wallet).

2013 Favorites: Random by jenniferrbates featuring a deborah lippmann nail lacquer

Deborah lippmann nail lacquer

2013 Favorites: Skincare

2013 Favorites: Skincare


1. Tarte Maracuja Oil  : I never thought I would say I loved a face oil. I always deterred from using these since I have oily skin. I was so wrong! I use this at night and always wake up with skin that lookes moisturized and glowing.

2. Lancome Bi-Facil eye makeup remover:  I tend to wear a lot of mascara and prefer to wear waterproof eyeliner as well so a good makeup remover is essential. This is non- irritating and you barely need any product on the cotton pad and your eye makeup comes right off!

3. Philosophy Microdelivery Face Wash : It is really important to have a exfoliator in your skincare routine in order to keep your face feeling and looking fresh. For me these types of products can feel really harsh on the skin. If you have this problem too then is your new best friend! Gentle but effective this will leave your face feeling clean and smooth.

4. Philosophy Miracle Worker Retinoid Pads : I love this stuff. It is a bit expensive but if you have problems with discoloration this really helps reduce the appearance of any spots. I suggest using this at night since it is a retinoid product it can leave your face a bit red.

5.Origins VitaZing : This is a wonderful everyday moisturizer. Origins describes this as a multitasking moisturizer that hydrates, energizes, and protects the skin all day. I would have to agree with this statement. This gives your skin an extra boost of color and brightness and can come in handy those days you had one to many cocktails the night before.

6. Origins GinZing Eye Cream : Hands down the best eye cream available. If you have dark circles this is the product for you. I swear after one use you will see a difference. Jay-Z said it best… Holy Grail.

2013 Favorites: Skincare by jenniferrbates

Lancôme waterproof eye makeup remover / Origins face moisturizer / Origins skincare / Philosophy face wash / Tarte bath body product / Philosophy beauty product

2013 Favorites: Hair

2013 Favorites: Hair

1. Chi Ceramic Hairstyling Iron : I started using flat irons years and years ago, I have used several brands and while they all work great I just love using the Chi iron the most. This is great for straightening and curling your hair.

2. Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Hydrocream Whip : This can be hard to find as its exclusively sold in Paul Mitchell Salons. I did find some for purchase on amazon though. This gives great hold volume and awesome shine. Seriously this stuff is holy grail.

3. Redken All Soft Conditioner : My hair is pretty long so my ends tend to get really dried out. I typically only use conditioner on my ends and this conditioner is not to heavy and keeps my hair super soft.

4. Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Tri Wheat Leave in Conditioner : Like I said above my ends tend to get dried out so I use this after every time I wash my hair. It really helps keep my hair detangled, soft and manageable.

5. Not Your Mother's Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray: I curl my hair a few times a week and I prefer the tousled beachy waves. This does all the work for you, I like to spray it on dry hair after I have curled it using my chi and sort of scrunch my hair up in order to give that tousled look.

2013 Favorites: Hair by jenniferrbates

2013 Favorites: Make up

2013 Favorites: Makeup

Over 2013 I tried a lot of new products and found a ton of new favorites along with re-discovering some tried and true products. This week I will post on my favorites from 2013. This first post will be dedicated to my favorite makeup products but future posts will include hair, skincare, and some random items. 

2013 Favorites: Make up by jenniferrbates 

1. Tarte BB Tinted Treatment 12 hour primer - This is a do it all product. A primer, light foundation, moisturizer and sunscreen. I love using this under my everyday foundation as well as on its own when I want less coverage.

2. NYX Mineral "Set It & Don't Fret It" Matte Finishing Powder : This is the only setting powder I will use. I know that the "luminous" foundation is very popular these days but with the Houston heat and my oily skin I strive for a matte finish and this does the job perfectly.

3.  Tarte Lights, Camera, Flashes Mascara: I wasn't so sure about this mascara at first but I have really come to love it lately. I would say it gives great length and paired with the Lash Domination mascara you get the best of both worlds!

4. Revlon Color Stay Whipped Creme Makeup : I have used this off and on for a long time now and even this year I tried some new foundations but I always found my self coming back to this one. This is high coverage and a little bit goes a long way. The original formula is just as good too. For reference I use the color nude.

5. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Gel Eyeliner: I'm a big fan of gel liners and this is the best I have come across. It has a creamy formula that glides on easily and stays on all day with out budging.

6. Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush -  This line of blushes has amazing pay off and staying power. I have the colors amused and fearless.

7. The Balm Mary-Lou Manizer :  This is the best highlighter I have ever come across it is the perfect color and will work for every skin tone.

8. bareMinerals Lash Domination : I used this the last few months of 2013 and fell in love. This gives intense volume.

9. Maybelline Fit Me Concealer - I picked this up in the color fair on a whim from the grocery store on day and have yet to find something better. I use this under my eyes and it gives great coverage, doesn't settle into fine lines and has a great creamy consistency. Best of all is the price!

10. Lorac TANtalizer Baked Bronzer Face/Body Bronzer : This bronzer works great with my skin tone and is very natural looking. The product last forever, I started using it over the summer and It still looks barely used.



 

 

Around the Web

Around the Web

I hope everyone has something fun planned for this weekend. I will be doing a deep cleaning of my closet and entire apartment. I like to start the year out fresh and as much of a chore it may seem I am looking forward to doing some purging.

Here are some links to some interesting finds from around the web to start your weekend off!

1. It has been absolutely freezing cold (Literally) lately, check out these breath taking pictures of Light Houses on Michigan and Niagara Falls frozen over.
2. I could really use this Cozy Sweater right about now.
3. 2014 is well on its way; look back at the most powerful photos from 2013.
4. Thinking of cleaning out the closet like me…. Maybe to stock up on new finds? Check this list out of the best basics to wear in the New Year.

5. Growing up my sister and I each had one and pretty much every girl I knew had one too….. See how much your American Girl doll doll could be worth.

After Christmas Sales

After Christmas Sales

While the holidays are a great time for catching up with friends and family they are also the perfect time to pick up some great deals. This year I didn't have as much time and funds to get everything I wanted in the sales, but I just could pass up some deals. You know me I love a good sale!

1. Philosophy Festive Favorites - I purchased through the philosophy site it's currently on sale for $78, but I picked it up for $55 in their big after Christmas sale. I have tried most of these products before and loved them. This is a great way to introduce yourself to this popular brand. You wont be disappointed I promise!

2. Tory Burch Mouse Pad - This is still on sale in navy on the Tory website. This just made my heart skip a beat when I saw it. Who doesn't want a Tory mouse pad? This was already on sale but after Christmas it had an extra 25% off.

3. Sam & Libby for Target - A friend of mine showed me these and I immediately ran out to my nearest target. I found the last pair and can you believe it... they were only 25 bucks! you can buy them full price online or check out your local target where they are sure to be on sale.

 

Bold Patterns / Bold Colors

Bold Patterns / Bold Colors

The temperatures have been dropping here in Texas… (and everywhere else for that matter) this “Polar Vortex” is really making me miss summer. I was searching the sales on ASOS and came across this beauty and for some reason I keep finding myself going back to look at it. To buy or not to buy… priced just under $50 I just might have to.

ASOS Jacket in Bright Mixed Print

A New Year and In The Land of Jen is back.

After a lot of thought I have decided to start posting on this blog again. I think when I first started this blog I was very excited and had every ambition of posting every day, but quickly started to feel  overwhelmed between a hectic work and home life. I first started this blog right after I had graduated from college. I was living at home and it was a great way for me to express myself and consume the extra time I had in-between job searching. I landed a great job and even kept up with the blogging for a while. Then I moved in with my boyfriend and things started to get crazy, between moving, decorating, and enjoying the time spent with my significant other I lost track of this blog. Before I knew it a long time went by and I hadn’t posted.

This being the start of a new year I’m finally ready to start this project up again and have some great blog posts planned for the future. I will hopefully be re-designing the site soon and In the land of Jen will have a whole make-over for this new start. My goal is to make this more of a life-style blog with posts full of fashion, home décor, party planning, and anything else that may come up along the way! So here is to a fun filled and prosperous 2014