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Around the Web

The Oscars are this Sunday, will you be watching? I plan on watching all the action go down including the red carpet arrivals (can't miss out on all the fashion!) and I'm pretty excited to see Ellen do her thing too.  This week officially started off the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo! This is one of my favorite times of year and I'll be at the cook off tonight and tomorrow!

If you are throwing a watch party check out these tips and treats for throwing the perfect red carpet.

Going along with the Oscar theme check out these Oscar stars when they were young.

Where does your olive oil come from? find out here. 

A great pictorial on applying eyeshadow from the Beauty Department.

I am going on vacation in a couple months so now is the time to kick my fitness into high gear. I recently read this article on the 20 best fitness tips of all time.

Recent Purchases

Recent Purchases

I love to stock up on winter clothes at the end of the season when I can get great deals. Loft is one of my favorite places to search the sales because they always have an additional 40% or more off the sales rack and these sweaters I picked up are great additions to my wardrobe. I have been loving my new C. Wonder ID monogram bracelet, It just adds a little something special to my wrist and my usual Michael Kors watch. As for the C. Wonder earrings they are super cute but I was a bit disappointed with the size (smaller than I thought they were) C Wonder is having a 75% off flash sale that ends today. I have been searching for a new pair of chunky black ankle booties and when I found this Steve Madden pair on sale for $40 dollars I just couldn't pass them up. As a bonus the buckle straps come off so you are getting two looks for the price of one! What recent purchases have you made? Do you shop the end of season sales like me?

1. LOFT wool sweater /2. LOFT striped sweater /  3. C. Wonder 14k earrings / 4. Isaac Mizrahi Leather Moccasin with Bow/ 5. C Wonder ID Chain Bracelet /6. LOFT petite lace sleeve t shirt / 7. Steve Madden Kaidence sold out but Similar Here and Here  8. Loft White ribbed sweater

Nars Matte Multiples

Nars Matte Multiples

Back on Valentine’s Day Nars announced they would be releasing a new line of their famous Multiples this time in a matte version. If you have never heard of the Multiples line it is a cream product that can be used on your cheeks and your lips hence the name Multiples. I am usually not a huge fan of cream blushes especially ones with a shimmer in them (with my oily skin and all); with that in mind I never bought into the Multiples line. I am however pretty excited for this spring launch since the range will include several matte bronze shades that will be perfect for contouring.

I pretty much always contour my face whether it be intense application for a night out on the town or just a little extra bronze for every day. My weakness is a great matte bronzer and up until now I have stuck to the powder formulation. I have been seeing contouring videos going around the YouTube circuit for quite some time and most of them are using cream products as the technique is becoming ever so popular. I have been dying to try this technique out but just haven’t been able to find the right product/color for me. So I am really hoping these new Matte Multiples will be the answer to my endless searching, right now I’m considering the shades Cappadoce and Vientiane. These come in at $39 dollars and can be purchased now on the NARS website and will be available in other beauty retailers on March 1st. Will you be checking this new line out from Nars?

{Cappadoce}

{Vientiane}

{Images via Nars}

Influenster

Influenster

Influenster sent me my first voxbox last week. If you don't know what Influenster is it is a site that is free to join and they send you new products free of charge for you to review based on your social media activity level. The more people that follow you on your different social media platforms the better chance you have at getting a box. Want to join? Leave your email in the comments below and I can send you an invite! The box I received was the J'adore Voxbox and included a bag of Hershey kisses, Red Rose tea packets, KISS lashes, Boots Botanic Clay Mask and Frizz Ease 3-day Straight.

1. Hershey Kisses - I mean who doesn't love kisses. Milk chocolate is my favorite type so these were the first thing opened and the boyfriend and I ate half the bag that night.

2. Red Rose Simply Indulgent Tea in Caramel and Lemon - I'm  really not a hot tea drinker, that being said the caramel flavor was a nice sweet tea, almost like a desert tea. $4.49 for a carton of 20 bags.

3. KISS Looks so Natural Lashes - These are very natural looking lashes. I don't usually wear fake lashes because I feel they look to over the top for everyday wear. These are great natural lashes that blend well with your own lashes. These retail for $3.99 and you can find them at Walgreens and CVS stores.

4. Boots Botanics Shine Away Ionic Clay Mask: This is a deep cleansing clay mask. This mask is designed to be hypo-allergenic and absorbs excess oil while pulling out any impurities from your skin. You leave this on for about 10 minutes till it has completely dried then rinse it off with warm water. I really like this mask, my skin felt extra clean and extremely soft after using. This retails for $9.39 and you can find Boots products at Target.



5. John Frieda Frizz Ease 3-Day Straight Flat Iron Spray: A heat activated formula that claims to give long - lasting straightness for up to 3 days. I already have pretty straight hair so I can't really judge how well this works for making curly or wavy hair straight. It did make my hair super soft and shiny and that lasted for about 2 days. This retails for $9.99 and can be found in any stores that carry the John Frieda lines.

Smashbox Wonder Vision

Smashbox Wonder Vision

This was a limited edition set  part of the Wonder Vision series Smashbox put out for the holidays. This set included five of Smashbox's luxe, high-shine lip enhancing glosses. I picked this up on sale at Ulta for a whole 14 dollars! That's right I definitely scored on this purchase. The set comes with 3 cream finishes and 2 shimmer finishes. The glosses have great pigmentation and the color range works well on there own or paired with your favorite lipstick. The colors in this set are Radiant, Pout, Tease, Luster and Ruby.  These glosses go on incredibly smooth and don't leave your lips feeling sticky at all. You can still find this set on Amazon or find these and other colors in this line at Smashbox.

 

Radiant: A rose color with a beautiful golden shimmer, this one really enhances your lips with a great shine.

Ruby: This is more of a true red and gives off great color but is more sheer than wearing an opaque lipstick.

Tease: This is an amazing deep berry color. This is similar to Ruby as it has a definite color payoff. This is great to use when you want a berry colored lip but no so bold.

Pout: A cream finish, and is a pale baby pink color which comes off sheerer than the others so it perfect for just a hint of color.

Luster: Is the other shimmer shade in this set and is an amazing shimmer sheer gloss that looks great on it own and really enhances any color you may put it over.

 

{Pout, Radiant, Tease, Luster, Ruby}

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Around the Web

Happy Friday! The weather has been so nice this past week here in Houston I can’t wait for pool season to start up! Hope you enjoy this week’s links!

{Jayne Mansfield knew what was up. Pool + Champs = A Good Time}

I love reading; I can stay up all night finishing a good book. I anticipate that's what will happen with this new book by BJ Novak (He played Ryan Howard on the office).

Everyone loves an adorable animal photo and these cats taking selfies are no exception to the cuteness.

I always tend to think I use the creative side of my brain the most but according to this brain test I use both sides equally.

A wife has one too many glasses of wine and tries to tell her husband a joke…. He recorded her and made an animation of it. Hilarity ensues.

Check out these amazing chalkboard illustrated quotes that students of Columbus College of Art & Design create in an empty classroom.

What's in my Handbag

What's in my Handbag?

One of my favorite kinds of YouTube videos to watch are the what's in my handbag posts. I love seeing what people carry around with them everyday. You know those are the best products if they have a spot in some ones purse. So in honor of those videos I thought I would show you what I keep in my bag. If you are interested in any of these items I have linked places to purchase below!

Michael Kors Selma – This was the Selma North South bag. Unfortunately this exact bag is no longer available but the same style in other colors are still available here.

Tory Burch Sunglasses – these were a Christmas present from my boyfriend last year. I'm not sure if this exact style is still available but you can find similar ones here.

Nars Danmari Palette – This was a limited edition blush palette from a few years ago. I always carry this with me. Not only does it have a wide aray of blushes it contains a highlighter and bronzer too! this was seriously the best purchase and you can check out my original review HERE. The only place I could really find this for sale was on eBay and for way more than what I paid.


Hands of hope – As I have said many times, my hands get extremely dried out during the winter months. This is a great unscented option for those who work in crowded offices or are sensitive to scents. I reviewed this a while back HERE.



Dior lip glow – I have only had this for about 2 weeks but this is my go to lip product. Although a bit expensive for a lip balm sometimes it’s nice to have a little luxury. You can see my full review HERE.

Fit me concealer – I have been using this concealer for so long now! This is the best drugstore under eye concealer! I never leave the house without this stuff. I mentioned this in my 2013 favorites also.

Kevyn Auicon – This has been a recent purchase and is my current foundation, to be honest I don’t really touch up my foundation through the day but it’s nice to have in my purse if I need it. You can check out my full review HERE

Pur minerals Balancing Act– I usually touch up my makeup during lunch with a quick dusting of pressed powder to keep my shine in control. Currently this is my go to. It’s the perfect size to keep in your purse and is just enough when I need a little extra coverage on my t-zone. This was part of a kit but you can get the full sized here.

Julep cuticle oil – I received this in my January julep box. This has been the best product for my cuticles. The roller ball dispenser is perfect for on the go and keeping this in my purse! Interested in this product? Check out my full review of this and the julep subscription box HERE.

Tarte eyeliner – I have a tendency to rub my eyes a lot through out the day so keeping a eyeliner on hand is imperative. Right now this is my product of choice. 

Kate Spade Wallet – I picked this wallet up a while back at the Kate Spade Outlet. She has a wide array of cute and colorful wallets here that are definitely worth checking out.

Tory Burch fragrance – I received this sample with a recent purchase I had made from Tory Burch. I have been looking for a new fragrance and was contemplating buying this one but I’m still not sure if it’s the one for me. Anyways I like caring samples in my purse in case I am ever in need of a sprits! Do you have a fragrance suggestion?

Body shop lip butter – I recently received this in a trio pack for Christmas and I have been loving it! This one is in mango and it just reminds me of a tropical summer day.

Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss - This goes on clear and looks great on its own or over any lip color you may be wearing. I have been wearing this over my Dior lip balm.

Elf Shine Eraser – my skin can get pretty oily throughout the day so I always keep blotting papers ready. These are a great inexpensive option that you can pick up at your local Target.

Loccitane Hand Cream -  Yes I have two hand creams in my purse. This is definitely a thicker formula and for the days my hands are really cracked and dry.

Real Techniques Setting Brush – this is the perfect brush for touching up my t-zone during the day. I am fan of all the brushes in this line and highly recommend checking them out.

Bookcase Styling

Bookcase Styling

I have been working on styling my bookcase in the living room for a while now. I keep re-arranging all my objects feeling unsatisfied with each different arrangement. I think I finally have it styled just how I want it. I looked up a lot of inspirational pictures on Pinterest and read this great blog post on styling a book case. I thought I would share my finished bookcase, tips and some inspirational pictures.

My Styling and Tips

               

• Books: Decide if you want to use a lot of books or a few. Think about using some in horizontal and vertical arrangements. Think about the color of your books. Having a set of brightly colored books can add a fun flair to your bookcase.
• Curate your objects: Make sure you love the objects that you want to put out, you will be looking at them everyday! Just like with my coffee table post, use a collection of things that mean something to you.
• Create Eye Movement: Make sure that your shelves are pleasing to the eye by having a natural flow of objects. You don't want to abruptly stop the eyes movement.
• Layer your Objects: Push some objects to the front and others closer to the back of the bookcase. Doing this will create layers of objects and gives your arrangements more depth.
• Don't Over Clutter: Not every shelf needs to be packed with every object you can find. Leave some more sparse so you aren't feeling overly cluttered by your bookcase.
  Shop Discount Stores:Stores like Ross, TJ Maxx and Marshalls Homegoods are great places to find inexpensive pieces to use. Also check out local yard and estate sales! Great style doesnt mean having to pay top dollar!

                                                                       

                                               

Inspiration

1.Everything Fab 2.Pinterest 3.Pinterest 4. Dimples and Tangles

1.Amber Interiors 2.Susan Glick Interiors 3.Pinterest 4. Emily Henderson

Dior Addict Lip Glow

Dior Addict Lip Glow

A couple weeks back I attended an event for the Ronald McDonald House Houston. The theme was girls night out and they had all sorts of beauty related booths set up for everyone to try out. I naturally was super excited when I saw that the DIOR counter was one of the booths. Of course I signed right up to get a make over. While the makeup artist was working her magic I explained to her that I always felt I picked the wrong shade of lip color and was open to any suggestions she had. Instinctively she told me I had to pick up the lip glow. A balm that enhances the natural color of your lips, reacting to the chemistry of them you get the perfect shade every time. I was sold! This product doesn't disappoint. Lip Glow leaves your lips satiny smooth and the perfect shade of natural pink to wear everyday. The color has great staying power and sometimes I will add a clear gloss for a little something extra. I have been slathering this on my lips obsessively and I suggest you do the same. You can purchase this online or at a DIOR counter nearest you.

February Julep Maven Box

February Julep Maven Box

I received my February box a couple weeks ago. I won't lie I completely forgot to check my account to see what I was getting this month and change it if I didn't like it. This months box was named the dramatic collection and when I opened my box I was pleasantly surprised to find an eye shadow, glitter nail polish, black gel liner and an angled eyeliner brush. If you are interested in signing up you can go here, I have a code to get your first box free! Just use FREEBOX at checkout.


Eye Sheen Liquid Eye Shadow- My box came with the color deep bronze shimmer. I was hesitant at first with this product, I typically steer away from cream/liquid eye shadows as I have oily skin and these tend to crease really fast on my lids. I decided to put it to the ultimate test and wear it to work one day. I must say that this gets high marks from me! This shadow is extremely pigmented and dries to a satin finish. It stayed put all day with out a single crease. I have been using this everyday since! I have a 10% off code for these eye shadows. Use code SHEEN10 until March 1st.

Ink Gel Eyeliner in Jet Black - I have always been a huge fan of gel liners and this one doesn't disappoint. The color is a perfect black and glides on so smoothly. As for staining power this liner does not budge (trust me it took extra makeup remover and cotton pads to get this stuff off).My box also came with an angled eyeliner brush to use with this eyeliner. Typically brushes that come with an eyeliner are not the best quality but this wasn't some cheapo brush it had a nice weight behind it and has become my new favorite eyeliner brush to use. I have a 20% off coupon codes for those that are interested. Use ALIST20 until March 1st!

Julep Nail Polish in Love- Every box this month came with an extra nail polish. There were three different special edition valentines colors you could receive and the one that I got was called love. It is a beautifull champaigne shimmer with pieces of pink glitter in it. I wore this for valentines day and am obsessed with it! Unfortunately I don't think you can still get this color since it was special edition. I do have a coupon code for 2 for 1 on nail polishes. Use BEMINE until March 1st.

Around the web

Around the Web

It’s finally Friday and Valentine’s Day! This week has been slow going and stressful, I am so glad to have a couple days off for some much needed R&R. I hope you all are having a fantastic Valentine’s Day I am so looking forward to gorging myself at dinner tonight!

{Picture credit Pinterest} 

It seems like we just can’t shake this cold weather so keep sporting those scarves and boots. Here are some different ways of tying your scarf.

Unless you have been hiding under a rock then you know that the winter Olympics have been going on. I really only enjoy watching the ice skating. When I was younger I would put socks on and glide all over the house trying to be just like them (don’t tell but I totally still do this when no one is home). I completely lost it watching this video of a Russian figure skater performing to Pony by Ginuwine .

I always love hearing about celebrities who tried out for famous roles that didn’t get it. Its always surprising how some you could completely see in the role and others would have been so wrong for it. Check out these celebrity auditions.

Fashion Week has been in full swing the past few days. I always love to follow designers on Instagram and YouTube so even though I’m not there I still get to see all the latest fashions. If you want to fit right in with all the other fashionistas then check out this article on the proper pronunciation of designers names.

It’s the 10 year anniversary of the movie Mean Girls. You know that pop culture phenom that every girl loves to quote and has been subjected to millions of awesome memes. Check out this article where the director dishes on what really went on behind the scenes. 

Target Collaboration

PETER PILOTTO for Target

PETER PILOTTO is an up and coming British clothing brand headed up by Christopher De Vos and Peter Pilotto. The brand is known for their bright colors and bold prints and can be seen on celebrities such as  Miranda Kerr, Julianne Hough, and Sandra Bullock ( just Google PETER PILOTTO and you will find a bevy of beauties rocking the line).

The duo's collection with Target was released last Sunday and is a much needed bright departure from all the dark colors of fall and winter. The line consists of tops, sweaters, shoes, sunglasses, dresses, jackets, and skirts. There is sure to be something for everyone. Below are my favorite items from the collection and I especially cant wait to get my hands on the shorts and bathing suit (I have been lusting for some summer sun lately). What are your thoughts on this collection? Will you be picking up an pieces?

1. Peter Pilotto Floral Dress  2. Peter Pilotto Blue Jacket 3. Peter Pilotto Shirt Red Floral  4. Peter Pilotto Bikini Top  Peter Pilotto Bikini Bottom 5. Peter Pilotto Blue Shorts  6. Peter Pilotto Romper Red Iris 

The Blonde Salad x Steve Madden

The Blonde Salad x Steve Madden

One of my favorite fashion bloggers to follow is Chiara Ferragni from the Blonde Salad. Last week her shoe collaboration with Steve Madden was released and I am obsessed! She has the best style and has a shoe line of her own that I love  but is a little on the pricier side. When I found out she did this collaboration I was so excited! Below are my favorites but you can check out all the shoes here. I am seriously debating picking up a pair.

1.TMADRID
2. TMONACOL
3. TDUBAI

Drugstore Vs. High-end: Makeup Removers

Maybelline Clean Express Vs. Lancôme Bi-Facil


For the last year I was pretty loyal to the Lancôme Bi-Facil eye makeup remover but when I ran out of my last bottle I figured it might be worth it to check out a less expensive alternative. I have raved about the Bi-Facil remover in my 2013 favorites. I do love this stuff you barely have to use any and your make up just wipes right off. A couple of weeks ago I picked up the Maybelline clean express waterproof eye makeup remover and  I had high hopes for it but unfortunately it just doesn't stand up to the Lancôme version. I had to use twice as much product on multiple cotton pads and I ended up having to really rub the cotton pads over my eyes to get off all my makeup (which is really bad for the sensitive skin around the eyes).  For me the Maybelline clean express just didn't work and I will be going back to my old standby. Do you have a favorite makeup remover?

Bi-Facil

Clean Express

Kevyn Aucoin Dew Drop Foundation

Kevyn Aucoin Dew Drop Foundation Review

I have wanted to try out some of Kevyn Aucoin products for years. As an avid watcher of youtube beauty videos I have heard for years that he had amazing products. A couple weeks ago I saw some of his products pop up on the daily deal site Hautelook. I knew I wouldn’t find a better time or price to try out his products. I was only able to get one thing since the other items I was interested in sold out before I was able to purchase (isn’t that the worst). I picked up the Dew Drop Foundation in color DW05.

This is a cream to powder foundation and is described on Sephora as a creamy powder finish that creates even-toned skin, is lightweight and doesn’t have to be used with powder. I have been using this every day for about a week now and I am seriously loving it! It provides excellent buildable coverage but feels so lightweight you feel like you are not wearing anything at all. It’s extremely smooth and creamy in the pan and glides on to your skin ever so effortlessly. This is definitely a great product for oily skinned girls. It sets to a powder finish and stays on all day. I still set my t-zone and under eye concealer since that is where I am my oiliest but haven’t even had to do any touch ups mid-day! I had a hard time finding other places to buy this foundation so I am wondering if this is being discontinued (probably why it was on Hautelook). If this is the case I will be so sad! I did find limited colors on Bergdorfgoodman.com and beautybar.com. I will forewarn you the colors run on the lighter side. I probably could have gone with a shade darker but DW05 is working fine when I add a little bronzer to my face.

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Around the Web

This weekend I am going to a friend’s bachelorette party in Austin. It should be a lot of fun and im hoping to get some good pictures to post. (Don’t worry I won’t post all the debauchery) Are you doing anything fun this weekend?

Sometimes I have a hard time falling asleep... maybe these moves will help.10 Yoga moves to relax and release stress before bedtime

Totally true look at the reality of Instagram feeds. I always get caught up in the the “reality” of what people post and not what is actually real.

Could the next big thing in beauty be to get a DNA test to find out the best skincare regime?


Its officially girl scout season… I always order boxes and boxes of thinmints. Check out these cupcakes inspired by girl scout cookies.


How popular is your name? it seems Jennifer was a pretty popular name in the 70’s and early 80’s. Crazy how even names are trendy.

Celebrity Style Crush

Jennifer Aniston

For more reasons than one I envy Jennifer Aniston. She is so cool and confident. Her friendship with Chelsea Handler makes her seem like a total cool girl. Her style is impeccable. Simple, classic and effortless … those are the words that come to mind when I think of her style. Every picture of her looks like she just threw together her outfit with ease yet looks so incredibly chic. Her style definitely appeals to my tendency to buy way too many neutral colored pieces. Who is your style crush?

How to wear faux leather shift dress / Ziggy moto jacket / Joe's Jeans what to wear with bootcut jeans / Acne Studios what to wear with platform booties / Steve Madden ankle strap wedge sandal / Warby Parker tortoise shell glasses / C&C California Raglan Baseball Tee | Piperlime / Daniel Rainn Silk Easy Tank | Piperlime

Pantone Color of the Year: Radiant Orchid

Radiant Orchid

If you didn’t already know the pantone color of the year is radiant orchid. Personally I love the color purple and couldn’t be more excited to see it popping up all over the place this year. I can remember always choosing purple as my favorite color when asked as a kid. I thought I was pretty cool because all the other girls said the standard pink. I mean really who thinks about these things as a kid? I have been wearing all different shades of purple eye shadows over the years. I found out a long time ago purple always seemed to compliment my eye color. Interested in testing the waters with 2014’s color of the year? Check out some inspiration and products to get you on your purple loving way!


Wear a bold lip and keep everything else simple. I love this look, I myself don’t wear too much lip product outside of balms and butters. I envy the girl who swipes on a bold color without a second glance in a mirror. Maybe your this awesome chick? Check out these lip products I am coveting.

1. Lime Crime Opaque Lipstick Airborne Unicorn 
2. Dolce & Gabbana  Passion Duo Gloss Lipstick Eggplant purple
3. Lime Crime Opaque Lipstick Poison Berry
4. Dolce & Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Ametista
5. YSL Glossy Stain 108 vibrant violet
6. Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Venom
7. OCC Lip Tar Dekadent

Create an eye shadow look using purples in all different hues and vibrancies. You can create a sultry smokey eye or  just do simple sweep of bright color over the lid. Just about anyone can pull off purple eye shadows, its all about picking the shade you like most!  

1. Marc Jacobs Style Eye in the Tease
2. Clinique All About Shadow Single in Purple Pumps
3. Tarte BeMattenificent Palette 
4. YSL Pure Chromatics Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette

If you aren’t into the bold lip or eyes try adding some purple liner to your look. This is a simple no fuss way of trying out this trend. Just swipe a purple pencil across the bottom lids or the top lids. Feeling fierce? Try lining both lids or use a glitter liner!

1. Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Color in Orchid 
2. Lime Crime Eye Liner in Orchidaceous
3. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Eye Pencil in Asphyxia
4. Laura Mercier Crème Eyeliner in Violet
5. Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner in ACDC

January Favorites

January Favorites

This month I discovered some new products as well as re-discovered some old ones. I still love all the products I mention in my 2013 favorites but wanted to talk about some other products I have been using this month. What have been your go to products this January?

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil – I have really sensitive skin and can never really use regular body lotion. Usually I opt for body oils. This is the best of both worlds a body oil that has been whipped into the consistency of a body butter. I really like the scent be joyful. When I use this my skin feels hydrated and incredibly soft.

Tarte Maracuja Creasless Concealer – I actually bought this a while ago and didn’t really think too much about it at first. I re-discovered it a couple weeks ago and really love it now! I get high coverage without creasing, two things I love in a concealer! I really don’t know what my hesitation was when I first purchased this. My one complaint is the tube is ridiculously difficult to squeeze product out of.

Tarte Eyeliner - I love this eyeliner even more than my Lancôme gel liner I mentioned in my 2013 favorites. This glides on so smoothly, can easily be smudged for a smoky look but once dry doesn’t budge, and is the perfect shade of black for everyday use.

Bareminerals Blush in Glamour – I got this over the Christmas holiday and really fell in love with this color. Which if you are wondering is a dusty rose sort of hue with fine shimmer…. (I repeat shimmer not glitter). It’s great for the working girl that wants a little color on the cheek but doesn’t want to look over the top. The smallest amount will give great pay off and lasts pretty well through the day. This was in a special set on QVC so I could only find this color sold individually on Amazon.

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Lotion– Finding the right self-tanner can be a bit hit or miss. I used to love the XEN tan line and while they are still a great option I recently switched over to the ST. Tropez brand specifically the dark tan lotion. Application is a breeze when using the special application mitt and the color is a perfectly bronzed glow without any orange ting!

Make a Difference Plus Rejuvenating Treatment Lotion – I just posted about this in my morning skincare routine .I have come to the realization I don’t think I will ever live without this stuff! My skin feels so balanced and refreshed after using. Its not to light or heavy so this would be perfect for any skin type.

Real Techniques Makeup Brushes : These are my all time favorite brushes to use. They make application a breeze and are so incredibly soft. This line of brushes was created by Samantha Chapman a YouTube beauty guru and professional makeup artists. I  followed her for years on YouTube and just can't sing enough praises about this affordable line of make up brushes. I have heard great things about her blending sponge (some say it's better than the beauty blender) so I plan on picking it up next time I am at Ulta!

1. Powder Brush
2. Blush Brush
3. Setting Brush
4. Shading Brush

Origins Make a Difference Hand Treatment- My hands always get extremely dried out during the winter. If I don't keep them hydrated they crack so easily and let me tell you that's not cute at all. This has become my go to hand treatment. This has an amazing citrus scent(like all things from Origins), I could sniff this stuff all day.

Valentine's Day Picks

Valentine's Day Picks

Valentine's day is right around the corner! The Boyfriend and I have reservations for our favorite restaurant Damian's. If you are in the Houston area I highly recommend this Italian restaurant! What are your Valentines day plans? Maybe you want to spoil yourself? Check out some of my favorite Valentines picks below.

1. The Art Of I Love You
2. Script Love Cuff and Pave Lip Bangle
3. Nars Velvet Matte Lipstick Pencil in Roman Holiday
4. Bobbi Brown Nail polish Pink Valentine
5. Lush Love Locket Bath Bomb
6. Nars Lipstick in Heat Wave
7. Jo Malone Red Roses Cologne
8. Ixora Blossoms Necklace