What I've Been Reading {October 2012}

Happy Halloween! I hope everyone is looking forward to dressing up or handing out treats tonight (although I'm sure all of the parties already happened over the weekend). Also, I just wanted to express that my thoughts are with those of you on the east coast. I've been watching some of the news coverage on hurricane Sandy, and it looks pretty intense. Stay safe and warm :)

Question of the month: What did you eat today? You can pick any day or an average day.

I decided to pick an average day, since that is probably the easiest - and the most telling. I will preface this by saying that I'm not perfect. I try to eat as healthy and as well balanced as possible, but I'm no Jillian Michaels. Lately, I've been really attempting to cut some extra calories because I'm looking ahead to my wedding next year. We all want to look (and feel) our best on our big day. I do indulge and give in to some cravings, but I try to pick up where I left off and go back to healthy eating again. However, I'm not consumed by it, and there are a lot of improvements to be made. Suggestions are welcomed :)

weheartit

Typical Breakfast:
Bowl of whole grain cereal
or
Whole wheat toast with nutella
or
Starbucks spinach wrap
Starbucks iced soy chai

Typical Snacks:
A cup of Greek yogurt, string cheese, some fruit, veggies with hummus

Typical Lunch:
Half of a turkey and swiss sandwich
or
Greek salad with low fat dressing

Typical Dinner:
Chicken and mixed veggies. I also love to eat salads for dinner.
Dinner is tricky for me, because that's when I'm tempted to eat the most. When I go out, I try to order fish. But sometimes I throw in some steak, potatoes, Mexican food, sushi, and pasta into the mix!


I wish I had some pictures to show, but I just haven't been instagraming my food lately! I think you get the idea though!

What does your typical day look like? Any tips for healthy eating on the go? I drive a lot for work, so my food has to be portable.



• Alison*Elle - Alison caused a dressing room scene and lived through the embarrassment to share her story.
• Beautygirl24 - Noelle used one of her favorite bloggers as inspiration to create a pretty outfit.
• Ella Pretty -  Ella attended her first fashion show - and received free pants!
• Lilly's Style - Lilly is enjoying wearing burgundy this Fall.
• Lindsay J Everyday - Lindsay's lovely layers.
• Love, Lipstick & Pearls - Kristen has been Falling into Fashion with these style inspirations.
• Schnelle Couture - Danielle mixed black and brown for the first time and was pleasantly surprised.
• Sequins and Stilettos - Skylette's fall wardrobe has consisted of a lot of skinny jeans and flowy tops.
• The Currently Obsessed - Mehreen's coveting these items ... And recently knocked one off her list!

♥ Noelle

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Just call me dottie

Closet peek :) I've never done a closet tour before, have I?

Sweater - Old Navy (similar, similar), Skirt - Express (similar), Heels - Zara (similar), Bag - J. Crew Factory, Necklace - stella & dot, Ring - YSL lapis arty, Nails - O.P.I Lincoln Park at Midnight

I didn't really come up with this outfit myself. After admiring several similar looks from the beautiful Veronika (including this one), I decided to use pieces already hanging in my closet to create a pretty Friday night outfit. Not only did I finally get the chance to pull out my Old Navy sweater, but I also incorporated a vibrant suede bag. On mega sale, it is an exact match to my mona suede pumps! I love taking style cues from other ladies, I know I've mentioned that before. Is imitation the sincerest form of flattery? I think so. I observe, I admire, and I try things out for myself. It is just clothing, after all.

♥ Noelle   

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Sephora VIB Wishlist

With all of the confusing news about Sephora's friends and family sale this year, I was about to call it quits on getting any type of discount on the things I've been wanting lately. So many of us save and save in order to either stock up and replenish our beauty arsenals, or finally get a deal on those special items we have been coveting. Well, who knew that friends and family really IS just for friends and family? Imagine that. So many companies have these sales this time of year, and I think we've come to expect them from every store. Too bad I'm not "in" with anyone at my local Sephora! I've already made a note of that so the next time I casually stroll in there, I can be exta friendly to staff :)

However, the VIB sale is still taking place in November. I'm not completely certain on the date, so feel free to let me know in the comments. The VIB sale is still 20% off, and it is the same discount we normally get during the friends and family. Here is my current shopping list:

MUFE Mat Velvet +

The only foundation I've used for over three years. I need another bottle stat!

Lorac Baked Blush in Velvet Rope

Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer

Laura Mercier Hand Cream Set

Josie Maran Argan Balm

If you haven't tried Josie Maran, this is a great starter kit! I swear by her argan oil!

Josie Maran Bestsellers

Sephora Super Stars

Although pricey, this looks amazing!

This is just a wishlist of course! I can assure you I won't be buying all of this.

Only in my dreams...

♥ Noelle

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A Bit of Bordeaux

 Blouse - Express, Jeans - Banana Republic (similar), Flats - Ivanka Trump (similar), Nails - Essie Wicked

Bag - Chanel, Heels - Guess (pretty option)

My absolute favorite combination of the moment:

Stella & Dot, Fossil Stella, Oia Jules

 I'm been bitten hard by the bordeaux, burgundy, wine, oxblood bug! I wore this silky blouse in said color with dark skinny jeans and lady-like flats while out and about last weekend. When I went to dinner in the evening, the only changes I made were my bag (previously carrying my mini mac) and I traded in the flats for a pair of sassy heels. Easy! That's really all it takes to go from day to night. Of course, a little extra swipe of lipstick and some heavier liner always helps. Whatever makes you feel good :)

How do you go from day to night?

♥ Noelle

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Buttoned Up & INPINK Giveaway {Closed}

Blouse - Express (similar), Jeans - Banana Republic (Similar), Pumps - Zara, Bag - Chanel, Sunglasses amd Earrings - F21, Nails - Essie Wicked

Necklace C/O INPINK

Black beaded bracelet C/O INPINK, Fossil Stella watch, Stella & Dot Renegade bracelet

Hey everyone, I hope you all had a great weekend! What better way to kickstart your Monday morning then with a fun jewelry giveaway? I've teamed up with INPINK and we are offering 20 Beautygirl24 readers $30 dollars to spend on their website. Their jewelry is really cute and affordable, so $30 dollars will go a long way if you are one of the lucky winners! However, everyone who enters will receive a $15 store credit!

Rules: 

1. Like InPink's Facebook page or follow them on Twitter

2. Leave me a comment below telling me that you have done so along with your email address. You must be a follower of my blog. Please limit one entry per person.

Conditions:

1. By submitting an entry to the contest, your email address will be added to the INPINK marketing database for future offers. You can opt out of this at any time. 

2. The winning credit cannot be applied to the purchase of nail polish.

3. INPINK ships to the U.S. and Canada. Therefore, the giveaway is only open to these areas.

The giveaway will be open for two weeks. The last day to enter will be on Monday, November 5th by midnight PST.

Good Luck!

♥ Noelle

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Bali Hai

Last Saturday evening, I had the pleasure of spending some much-needed girl time with my best friend. She lives in San Diego, so I'm always excited to visit and be a tourist in her city while she introduces me to fabulous bars, eateries, and shops. We went to this gorgeous resturant on Shelter Island called Bali Hai.  As close to paradise as I'll come until Hawaii next year! The view is incredible. We sat upstairs overlooking the water, the downtown skyline glimmering in the background.

 Outfit for the night: Colorblocking

Blouse - Bellatrix (love this!), Skirt - J. Crew (in red), Flats - Steve Madden (similar),

 I decided to use my salmon colored bow blouse and my navy city mini to try colorblocking. After wearing high heels the night before, I gave my feet a break with some comfy leopard flats. I could live in these. I think I've had them for about five or six years, and I'm shocked at how well they've held up!

J. Crew chain, Michael Kors rose gold stretch bracelet, GlamRocks Designs rings

 Nails - Milani Bare to Wear, OPI Designer De Better as an accent

 If you're ever in San Diego, definitely make Bali Hai a must-see (I sound like a travel guide!) 

I just know you won't be disappointed.

♥ Noelle

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Mix & Match

Jacket - Halogen, Cami - J Crew, Skirt - Francesca's, Pumps - Similar, Bag - Rebecca Minkoff, Earrings - richrocksnyc, Bracelet - TJ Maxx

I found this chevron printed jacket at Nordstrom a few weeks ago, right when we were in the midst of a heat wave. The print caught my eye, but the leather trim and knited fabric is what sent me over the edge. I had to have it! Not only is the texture cozy, but the trimming and pockets make it so versatile. I love casual pieces with a twist! I decided to pair it with my bright lace skirt for even more texture, and the gunmetal accessories tied everything together. Bring on the cooler weather, mother nature.

♥ Noelle

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October Obsessions

Lady-like chic

Incorporating Fall's "IT" color into my wardrobe. I would love this AW bag, but I'm thinking a simple blouse or sweater will do the trick.

Could Olivia Palermo be any more perfect?

It started with this necklace...

Now I'm anticipating this bracelet by one of my favorite Etsy shops, Oia Jules

Also love these Etsy sellers: 1&2&3

This combination doesn't want to leave my wrist

Wedding Planning, but going step by step instead of haphazardly. I bought a wedding planner/binder complete with blank pages to take notes and slots to keep business cards etc. It instructs you on what to do each month until the big day. It's a life saver.

Cooler weather, pretty colors, pumpkin spice, candles...Enjoying the season!

Photos c/o: Pinterest, Zimbio, Better Homes & Gardens, Darin Fong Photography, Etsy

What are you loving this month?

♥ Noelle

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Sunday Sunset

Cardigan - Target, Blouse - Old Navy, Jeans - Old Navy, Heels - Zara, Bag - Rebecca Minkoff

Oia Jules Necklace

Chanel Peridot (Fall 2011)

I wore these all weekend

Oxblood (a term that kind of gives me the creeps) may be the "it" color of the season, but my favorite Fall hue is definitely mustard. It's an odd color, isn't it? I wouldn't classify it as a typically pretty shade. However, there is just something about the way that it pairs with other things. I love it with neutrals, but I also love it with brighter colors like blue and hot pink. Now that the weather has cooled down slightly here in SoCal, I couldn't wait to break out a snuggly soft cardigan to throw on for a casual Sunday evening. The sun was setting as these pictures were taken, and the sky outside my window was ablaze in a fiery mix of orange and red.

What's your favorite Fall color?

♥ Noelle

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...Introducing Mini Mac

  

With flash

Natural lighting

I want to thank everyone who gave me great advice on which Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac to choose - black or charcoal? It was such a difficult decision! Honestly, I wanted both. But, I ultimately went with the charcoal after so many of you pointed me in that direction. I couldn't be happier with my choice! I love my new little bag! The grey leather is so soft and supple. It's a very neutral color, although it does lean more cool toned because the grey looks a tad bit lavender or taupe in some lighting. I actually am even more pleased with the color in person. It's a really adorable but functional bag. You can alter the straps or completely remove them, which means the possibilities for styling are endless. It will look great with so many of my Fall/Winter clothes and accessories. More pictures of this in action to come :)

♥ Noelle



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Lace & Lines

Lace and lines pullover - Anthropologie

Arm Candy - stella & dot and Derng

 Nails - Maybelline Color Show in Metal Icon

I wore this on Monday, and I would say this is a typical outfit for me during the week. I love my new lace and lines tee from Anthropologie. It's got the casual vibe of a classic striped T shirt, but the pretty rust colored lace at the top dresses it up and makes it feel special. I love the contrast! Comfortable, yet still put-together is always my M.O. for work.

Oh, and it feels so good to be a dark brunette again!

♥ Noelle

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What I've Been Reading {September}

September is my birthday month, so I'm a little biased when I say that it's my favorite time of year. Another favorite? Definitely October! I'm patiently waiting for the weather to cool down. Then it'll feel like Fall finally.

This month's question: What bath products are you currently using?

1) Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo - I've used this line off and on since the beginning of college when my hair stylist introduced me to it. I had no idea what sulfates and parabens were, and I think this was right around the time when consumers became aware that sulfates really strip and damage the hair.  Although I do love Pureology, I also enjoy other brands like Unite and Aveda.

2) L'oreal Ever Sleek Smoothing Conditioner - Proof that you don't have to spend a lot of money on fancy products, this is a great sulfate free line. My hair is naturally wavy and frizzy, and this really does add moisture and shine to my temperamental locks.

3) Macadamia Deep Repair Masque - The best deep conditioner I've ever used. I will continue to repurchase this, as I'm down to the bottom of the jar. Talk about moisture! I love this, and definitely recommend it for any girl that uses heat or colors their hair.

4) Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash - I have really dry skin. The itchy, bumpy kind. This body wash has a really soft and soothing scent, and it leaves my skin moisturized.

5) Lush Ocean Salt - This is another amazing product that I am being spoiled by! I have heard so many great things about Lush, but locations are pretty scarce in this area. When I went up to Santa Barbara, I was finally able to experience it for myself on State Street. Not only do I love the scent, but I love how it exfoliates my skin. I feel like I'm playing in the sand on the beach. I use it all over my body, but I concentrate on my arms and legs. My skin feels like heaven afterwards.

6) Refresh Facial Cleanser - I'm on the last few drops of this cleanser by ElevenSkin. I have used this for quite a few months now, and I just love how gentle this is. It leaves my face feeling fresh and clean, but it doesn't strip the skin of natural oils. No breakouts either. I need another one ;)

 

What bath products are you currently using?

 

 



Question of the month:

• Alison*Elle - Alison's treated herself to a birthday splurge from Chanel.
• Beautygirl24 - Noelle celebrated her birthday in a sparkling gold skirt.
• Ella Pretty -  Ella's dressing for fall - she's loving her chambray shirt & heart scarf.  
• Lilly's Style - Lilly's is enjoying mixing bright colors.
• Lindsay J Everyday - Lindsay's been loving leopard.
• Love, Lipstick & Pearls -  Kristen has been loving jeweled headbands for fall.
• Schnelle Couture - Danielle revealed all of her party details and the gender of her new baby!
• Sequins and Stilettos - Skylette has jumped into two fall trends in one with bordeaux and printed pants!
• The Currently Obsessed -Mehreen loves her Chanel this Month (and this Chanel "esque" tweed blazer!) 

♥ Noelle

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