Products Worth Trying

1) Elf Kabuki Brush - For three dollars at Target, I walked away with the softest (I mean bunny soft) kabuki brush that fits perfectly into my J. Crew makeup bag. I use it to apply my face powder during touch-ups. I thought about buying one from a high-end brand, but I'm so happy that I saved my money and bought this little guy instead.

2) California Mango Mend - This multi-purpose balm smells amazing! Like a trip to Bora Bora amazing. Or so I imagine :) Anyway, this can be purchased at Sally Beauty Supply for around nine dollars. I bought it specifically for my dry hands. I'm constantly washing them because I work with kids who love to put their germy little fingers all over me! I wash my hands so much that they get cracked. This mango balm is the perfect size to keep in your bag, your car, or next to the bathroom sink. I won't be without it this Winter.

3) ROC Daily Resurfacing Disks - If you try just one thing from this list, please try this! These disks are great for firming and exfoliating skin. I don't have deep wrinkles (yet) so I can't attest to their ability to help fight them, but I've noticed a real difference in the overall appearance of my skin. It's been much more radiant lately. Safe enough for daily use.

4) Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer - I'm not a fan of face primer, mainly because I think regular moisturizer works just as well. However, after months of reading rave reviews from many of you, I was happy to try this sample size in the Sephora All Stars set. Love it! This primer is the perfect texture and consistency - not too slick, not too heavy, and only a slight silicone feel. It helps my foundation go on more smoothly, diminishes the look of pores, and helps my makeup last longer.

5) Goldeneye nail polish from the O.P.I. Skyfall collection - The most gorgeous gold! I have worn it for almost an entire week and it's just now starting to chip. It's such a stark gold, it almost looks like real gold leaf.  I don't think I've ever seen anything like it. This will be my nail color of choice for New Years.

6) Josie Maran Argan Oil - Another product that I can't recommend enough to everyone. Great for hair, cuticles, face, arms, legs...put some in your bath for softer skin. You can honestly use this product for practically any beauty need. The great thing about her argan oil is that it's very light. It soaks right into your skin while still providing so much moisture. The same goes for your hair. I used  Moroccan Oil for a long time, but stopped because it just felt so greasy and heavy. This is weightless.

♥ Noelle



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Products I'm Loving

 I feel like it's been such a long time since I last featured a few products that I can't put down. It's one thing to show you what I've been buying lately. The true test comes from what I'm using on a daily basis.

This Fall, I've been all about berry toned blush with a satin finish. I love coral when I'm tanned, but once my color fades, I like a beautiful berry pop right onto the apples of my cheeks. Nothing perks up my complexion more. These are surprisingly easy to wear. They can go on sheer, or packed on! I like somewhere in between. The MAC shades are no longer available, but the LORAC blush is beautiful. There are so many pretty berries out on the market, I'm sure you can find the perfect one for you.

This Chanel quad in Prelude is a gift from my best girl. I'm loving a plum smokey eye, and this lets you go light and natural, or dark and sultry. All four shades are incredibly flattering. I like to use my Sephora smudge brush in number 29 to line my eyes in the darkest shade. It lasts all day.

What is this flourescent pink blob you may ask? It's called a tangle teezer! Apparently it's very popular in the U.K. I got mine at Sally's Beauty and I've been using it every single day since. It's the perfect shape for the palm of your hand, and it glides along the hair easily to comb out tangles - minus the pain.



These three scented candles from Bath & Body Works make me so happy. I light them primarily at night after a long day. The Vanilla Bean Noel has been my favorite for years now.

What products are you loving this Fall?

♥ Noelle

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MAC Holiday & Sephora VIB Sale

Just a quick post for today, as I'm leaving in a bit to go camping. We are taking a trailer, courtesy of the boy's parents so I guess I can't truly call it camping. With a queen sized bed, a stove, and a bathroom, we aren't really going to be roughing it! Nope, just relaxing.

Here are my buys from Sephora's VIB sale yesterday! I also stopped by MAC and picked up two things from their Holiday collection.

1. Lancome Hypnose Star Mascara Collection - Such a great value! You get a full size mascara, artliner (my favorite liquid liner), a mascara base, and eye makeup remover. I can't wait to try the mascara, I've heard great things :)

2. Sephora Super Stars - I think the name says it all. Again, you can't go wrong by purchasing a kit like this. You can try so many things for a great deal. I wanted the Hourglass primer, and this kit contains it. I also needed another Benefit They're Real mascara, and I've been meaning to purchase the Chloe fragrance for months now. Everything else looks amazing!

3. Makeup Forever Mat Velvet + - I had to replenish. I'm tempted to try the HD foundation, especially for my wedding. That one remains on my list!

4. MAC Glamour Daze blush in easy manner, eyeshadow in stolen moment. Gorgeous, and definitely in line with my plum/taupe makeup obsession.

If you would like to see any swatches or reviews on anything, please let me know. Just give me about a week or so to test these beauties out!

Use code CELEBRATE at checkout for 20% off your entire purchase at Sephora. Happy shopping!

♥ Noelle

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Too Faced Candlelight Glow

I'm a sucker for highlighters. No, not the kind you write with in neon yellow, but the kind you carefully place on areas of your face that you want to... well, highlight! After finding Dior's Amber Diamond, I'm not sure what compelled me to purchase this one from Too Faced. I walked by a display of them at Macy's, and they immediately caught my attention.

I think the reason why I love this Candlelight Glow is because it has that same silky texture of Amber Diamond. It provides just enough of a sheen to highlight the tops of my cheekbones ever so softly. When the light catches its tiny shimmer particles (not glitter), it really smooths the appearance of your skin. I wish I had swatches for you, but I just couldn't capture its beauty no matter what lighting or camera setting I tried. One side of the powder is a white gold, the other a golden pink that picks up different colors, almost like an aurora borealis crystal. When swirled together, the two sides blend beautifully into a warm golden sheen. It's very, very flattering and pretty. I think it would work quite well on most skin tones.

If you happen upon Candlelight Glow, I highly suggest swatching it for yourself! Dior is still my number one, but this comes in a close second.


Reminder: My Stella & Dot online trunk show is still happening here

♥ Noelle

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Beauty Treats

A birthday trip to the mall included stops at Sephora, Macy's, and Aveda. For the first time in months, I absolutely adore every single item I got, and would dare say these products are HG worthy. It's always nice to treat yourself to some luxury beauty items, and even more satisfying when they work for your specific needs.

1. Aveda Pure Abundance Style Prep - "infuses all-day weightless volume". I used this on my damp hair after I washed it yesterday, and not only did it smooth my hair and made it feel super soft, it also did add some extra volume.

2. Chanel Natural Finish Pressed Powder - Okay, so I've always wanted a Chanel compact. My intent was really the mirror displayed inside. Sleek, polished, and sophisticated. However, the powder is great as well! I use it to blot my t-zone throughout the day, and it just leaves my skin looking less shiny. It isn't heavy or cakey at all. I love pulling it out of my bag when I need a quick touch up :)

3. Sephora Pro Smudge Brush # 29 - I use this to smudge eyeshadow along my lash lines, top and bottom. It's also great to smudge out pencil liner.

4. Laura Mercier Baby Lips  - This is an amazing lipstick. The texture feels like a balm because it is so soothing and moisturizing. The color itself is sheer, and in fact, it very closely resembles my beloved MAC lipstick in See Sheer (a light wash of red). I like Baby Lips even more, and that says a lot! This is a great color for anytime, anywhere. It really does remind me of a sweet baby's flush-stained lips.

♥ Noelle

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Drugstore Discoveries

Although I continue to use most of the same tried and true products, I do like to experiment at the drugstore. Many offer wonderful return policies, so you don't feel locked into something if you don't like a particular shade or formula. Also, because drugstore products are often relatively inexpensive, you don't have to feel guilty for buying something new.

Over the past month, I've discovered some gems that I had never tried before.

Julie G. is a YouTube guru that has turned her makeup tips and tricks into a full blown line of nail polishes at Rite Aid. I don't know too much about her, as I've only seen a few of her videos. I have to admit I was a bit skeptical, but the candy colored shades looked beautiful and I was definitely curious. The shades I have are Gelatos in Venice (the light mint) and Cupcakes and Castles (baby pink with shimmer). These are amazing! The formula goes opaque instantly, and only two coats are needed to achieve the color pictured in the bottle. They aren't thin or streaky. I highly recommend giving them a try the next time you are in Rite Aid.

Gelatos in Venice, after four days of wear.

Another product I'm happy I've discovered is Revlon's Brow Fantasy. After going through my Maybelline Define-A-Brow pencil, I was looking for something a little bit more versatile, and in a shade lighter. This pencil is in brunette, and I believe it is the second from the darkest shade. I love that it not only comes with the waxy pencil, but also a matching gel to tame my brows and keep them in place all day. You get a little more for your money with the two corresponding products, although I don't wear them together. I do one or the other.



After finishing my Pureology conditioner, I decided it was time to find something a little less expensive. I chose this one because I don't like to wash or condition my hair with products that contain sulfates. I didn't think I'd really see a difference in my hair, but I have! This claims to leave you frizz-free for 48 hours (or until the next wash) and I've really noticed my hair looking and staying less fuzzy. Now that's an accomplishment!

♥ Noelle

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Makeup Must-Haves

1) Makeup Forever Mat Velvet +: Great for combination to oily skin. It is buildable coverage, and it makes skin appear flawless.

2) Makeup Forever HD Powder: I use this to set all of my makeup. It keeps skin matte, but is still quite sheer. In other words, this won't make you look powdery.

3) Buxom Lip Creme in White Russian: The only lip gloss I'll continue to purchase. It's the perfect pinky-nude that feels refreshing on your lips. Also non-sticky.

4) M.A.C. lustre lipstick in See Sheer: Beautiful wash of light red.

5) Benefit Coralista Blush: The perfect pink toned coral with tiny hints of gold shimmer.

6) Benefit They're Real Mascara: Makes my little bitty lashes miles long, and with tons of volume. Who wants to mess with falsies when you have a mascara like this? Not I!

7) Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler: There's a reason why this is a cult favorite.

8) Urban Decay All Nighter Spray: This sets makeup and keeps it looking good all day (or night) long.

9) Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner Pencil: This stays on the waterline longer then any other liner I've found. It's really creamy and smooth, and glides on like a dream with no pulling or tugging.

10) Dior Amber Diamond: This highlighter is the perfect amount of sheen. It doesn't contain any glitter. Finally, a highlighter for grown-ups.


This is my makeup must-have list. I am no expert, but I think I've learned a little something over the years through trial and error. I couldn't be without them in my beauty arsenal, and I would absolutely recommend them to anyone I know.

♥ Noelle

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These sets of photos c/o Pinterest

bagsbymelanie

Bellatrix

MakeitStickDesigns

I just bought some of these nail decals from a seller on Etsy.

Thank you to Tara for the idea!

Where my fiance and I stayed last year when we got engaged :)

Chevron print seems to be everywhere! In fashion, on home decor items, even in beauty. There is something about those little zig-zags that catches everyone's attention. Whether in bright color or classic black and white, it's certainly a playful, youthful print that can be used in a multitude of ways. I'm hooked.

♥ Noelle

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What I've Been Reading: July 2012

Hey girls, I hope you had a wonderful weekend! The weather was incredibly gorgeous by the beach, I didn't want to leave. It's much much hotter inland :(

Anyway, this month's question comes from the beautiful Andi: If you were stranded on an island--which one album and which one book would you want to have with you?

I'm embarassed to admit that I'm not as avid a reader as I once was. Growing up, my parents teased me and called me Belle from Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Belle always had her nose planted into a book. That was me. Throughout high school and early college, I continued my love of reading and writing. There is something so much more powerful about the written word. I tend to stutter or get flustered when I speak, but that never happens with my writing. Anyway, I've lost a bit of interest in reading novels, which makes me sick to my core! I think reading is so important for everyone! All of this new technology is distracting, and I fear that reading will one day become obsolete. Let's all motivate each other to pick up a great book!

I read White Oleander in high school, and have read it numerous times since. Please don't see the movie! It took away so much of the emotion. I even wrote a paper about the characters in one of my Psychology courses.

From Barnes & Noble: "Everywhere hailed as a novel of rare beauty and power, White Oleander tells the unforgettable story of Ingrid, a brilliant poet imprisoned for murder, and her daughter, Astrid, whose odyssey through a series of Los Angeles foster homes-each its own universe, with its own laws, its own dangers, its own hard lessons to be learned-becomes a redeeming and surprising journey of self-discovery."

It's sad, breath-taking, and it makes me cry. But I highly recommend it, even though it's quite meloncholy.

As for one album I'd be "stuck" with. It's Jack Johnson all the way! He makes any day a vacation in paradise.

Album: In Between Dreams

Favorite Song: Better Together. Look it up!

What one book and one album would you bring? Share!

• Beautygirl24 - Noelle fell in love with a pretty peplum top
• Ella Pretty -  Ella's made a list of her must-have handbags & shares pictures from her bag collection here
• Lilly's Style - Lilly's feeling summery in shorts
• Saltwater Dreams - Andi has discovered two new must-have products, see what they are here
• Schnelle Couture - Danielle is enjoying her new baubles
• Sequins and Stilettos - Skylette finally found a blouse to try the peplum trend with- take a peek here

♥ Noelle

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Another Favorite Scent ---> Jimmy Choo

I've been cheating on my Prada Candy, Viktor & Rolf La Vie En Rose, and Philosophy Summer Grace. The reason? Jimmy Choo decided to make a fragrance, and it is just so good. Not one to jump the gun, I was elated when I saw the rollerball version while cashing out at Sephora. I had actually already paid for my MUFE foundation, and barely spotted it out of the corner of my eye. A few months ago when I bought Prada's Candy, the SA gave me samples of tons of perfumes. This was included, and I have used my sample sparingly ever since in an effort to preserve it.

LINK!

Sultry, sexy, glamourous, feminine.  Notes of patchouli, tiger orchid, green, toffee. I can't afford a pair of Jimmy Choos, but I can afford this! When did I become such a frgrance fiend? I'm not sure, but I'm happy I did.

Have you tried this yet?

♥ Noelle

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Summer Makeup

When the temps rise, I think the last thing we all want to do is wear a ton of makeup. I generally wear less makeup in the Summer then I do in the colder months, but I love the look of bronzed skin, flushed cheeks, and fruit-colored lips. There is nothing sexier! The key is to use a light hand, apply plenty of sunscreen, and focus on a dewy glow rather then caking on powder. It's going to get hot, so don't fight it! Just go with it! Let your natural skin show, let your hair down. Use a setting spray like Urban Decay's All Nighter to seal in your makeup, and when possible (like on weekends), let your hair air-dry. The beauty of Summer is ease and simplicity; I do admit that I look more like myself this time of year :)

I went through my beauty stash last night, and there are some obvious colors and products that I use on a frequent basis now that I have a light tan. Here are some favorites, but I suggest using any products  you may have that are similar in color. Think bronze, gold, warm browns, and taupes for eyes. Watermelon, coral, hot pink, and peach for lips.

Top: Revlon Colorburst l/s in Fuchsia, Bare Escentuals eye glimmer in True Gold, Revlon Just Bitten Balm Stain in Lovesick

Bottom: Inglot eyeshadow. I'm so sorry, I don't know the number. It is a very stark gold, with a copper finish.

I love yellow gold or copper eyes and bright pink lips. Gorgeous!

Buxom lip cream in White Russian, MAC plushglass in Fashion Fanatic, and NARS duo in Rajasthan.

You can never go wrong with a lip plumping gloss. These feel minty and cool, very refreshing on a sweltering day! Pair them with lighter smoky shadow for a great evening look.

Lancome Rouge in Love lipstick in Corail in Love, MAC mega metal shadow in Dalliance.

It's no secret that Corail in Love is my favorite coral. I like to dab it on and press it into my lips for a stained look. A single sweep of pewter shadow and some black liner with mascara is all you need. Easy!

Revlon colorburst lipgloss in Bellini, Revlon Balm Stain in Charm, MAC 3D shadow in Sweet Heat, Burberry shadow in Pale Barley

Peach and bronze are also a very soft and pretty pairing. I wear these to work a lot because they look natural, but still radiant.

Sweet cheeks: NYX body bronzer in Daydream of Lanai and MAC Hipness blush.

I use both as blush. They contain a good bit of shimmer, so although I swear by Dior's Amber Diamond (and highly recommend that), you don't need it with these.

Lastly, I just bought these two UD single shadows over the weekend. I think they are both in the Naked 2 palette, but correct me if I'm wrong. I can't wait to try these taupes with pink lips.

Verve and Stray Dog

What are your Summer makeup colors/products?

♥ Noelle



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Reader Request & Instagram

Last week, a reader asked me to do a review on the new Revlon Balm Stains. I have three: Charm, Cherish, and Lovesick.

Charm is a peachy coral, Cherish is a light blue-toned pink, and Lovesick is a deep fuchsia. Out of the three, Lovesick is the obvious shade with the most payoff. However, my favorite is Charm. It looks very light when swatched, but it reads better on the lips. It's a great shade for Summer, and it makes my skin look more tanned. Cherish is pretty also, but it's a tad too cool for me. I've been layering it with a bit of Lovesick to get a better color.

Swatches: Charm, Cherish, and Lovesick

When the Revlon lip butters came out, I raved about them every chance I got. I still like those, but I like the balm stains even more! They have a minty taste, they are moisturizing, and they really do leave a beautiful stain. They are much better than Revlon's Bitten lip stains. Those are like a marker, these are definitely a balm. I like layering these with other products, such as lip liners and glosses. They wear beautifully. They have a glossy sheen that eventually disappears, but the color stains the lips long after the shine wears off. I remember sleeping with Charm on my lips the first night I got it, and when I woke up the next day, the stain was still there. I highly suggest giving these a try. I don't see anyone being disappointed.

I love answering your questions, so please feel free to request something in the future! I read each and every comment :)



Now for some Instagram love. I'm still obsessed with it! I take every opportunity I can to take a picture now. Food, beauty products, scenery, friends, fashion...I try to include it all on my Instagram. I think it's great because you guys get a chance to take a peek into my personal life a little more then you do on my blog. I've only been on Instagram for a few short weeks, but I'm so happy that I figured out that it's not just for iphone users.  Here's the past week in pictures:

Dinner and drinks

My pool essentials.

This was actually taken a few months back on our Pismo Beach excursion. So beautiful!

The boy...so cute :)

Girls night with...the girls <3

I love the white flowers in my mom's front yard.

Tonight, I'm painting my nails with Essie Marshmellow. On Saturday, my best friend and I are going to treat ourselves. I plan on getting a pedi and using CG Shocking Pink.

 

I'll feature my photos as often as I can, as long as you don't mind!

Have a great weekend!

♥ Noelle

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Sunburst

Photos via my Instagram (Beautygirl24 - of course!)

This season, I've realized how drawn I am to bright shades of pink, orange, coral, and peach. I seem to be buying these sunburst inspired colors in droves! In the Summer, all I want to do is drop everything each evening and drive to the nearest beach to watch the sunset. Maybe that's why I love these colors so much. If you have any specific questions on anything seen here, just let me know and I'll be happy to tell you. I'll be back on Sunday with an outfit - inevitably in one of these happy hues :) Have a great rest of your week!

♥ Noelle

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Current Hair Care Loves

 

1. Pureology Volume Shampoo  - no sulfates, great for all hair types in my opinion 2. Pureology Hydrate Conditioner  3. Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo - no white residue!  4. Macadamia Deep Repair Masque  - I use this once a week and it makes my hair so soft! 5. Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Spray Mousse - I spray this into my roots before blow drying for added volume 6. Kenra Platinum Silkening Mist (I love the gloss serum, but the mist is great too)  7. Josie Maran Argan Oil - I use this as an overnight treatment when my hair needs some extra TLC. Then I wash it out in the morning. It's very nourishing.

8. TRESemme Heat Tamer Spray - great before using a flat iron to protect my hair from high heat.

~ One thing I really need help with is a good texturizing or wave enhancing spray. I want to get something to put in my hair on days when I just want to air dry, but still want to tame my natural wavy (and frizzy) hair. Sort of that beachy, bohemian look. BUT, I want one that doesn't leave my hair dry and crunchy! Any good recs? I would appreciate it!

♥ Noelle

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