Lip Service

Two beauty posts in one week? Pretty good! I'm on a roll it seems, and my favorite product to blog about is definitely pictured below. When it comes to excess, my handbags, nightstand, and vanity are filled to the brim with lipsticks, stains, balms, and glosses. Once only interested in nudes and baby pinks, these days I'm all about a bright bold lip.

Quick note: The tray is from Target. I actually keep it on a ledge between our kitchen and living room, and I change the decor out depending on my mood or the season. I love trays for displaying my lip treats though, and am thinking of getting another for my vanity. The random crystal button at the bottom? It went in the center of our wedding cake's bow :)

I grouped my new Spring lip colors according to color, and the bottom two are glosses. 

Right now, orange is my shade du jour. Yes it's trendy, all over the runways and magazines. But it's also surprisingly flattering! I never thought I'd be brave enough to pull off such a vibrant color, but I'm telling you that it works! I find that it lifts the complexion and brighten up the entire face. I like to go for more of a true mandarin shade, and avoid anything that's too peach or watered down. The M.A.C. lipstick shown was limited edition, but it's called Fashion Force if you're interested in locating it. However, the orange I highly recommend was actually one I saw on Ella and Carylee. It's the Revlon Lacquer Balm in Tease. Glossy and the perfect shade of orange, it's got just enough red in it to keep it classic, and it's what I've been wearing a lot lately. The Maybelline elixir gloss is in "Mandarin Rapture", and I like to dot just a bit on top of Tease for added shine. 

Of course, you can't think Spring without a bright pop of pink on the lips. My favorites are also by Revlon. The original Balm Stain in "Lovesick" is the best fuchsia ever (last worn here), and "Flirtatious" is equally gorgeous. I like the formula of the lacquer balms better because they offer some shine and they are much more moisturizing. My Chanel glossimer in "Glaze" is the perfect topping to any pink lip. 

I think I've covered all six, but if you have any questions feel free to ask!

What is your favorite lip shade?

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New In Beauty

It's hard to believe that it's been at least a couple of months since I last wrote a beauty post. After all, this is partly a beauty blog! Sorry guys, not sure why there's been a lack of makeup blabbing around here! The start of a season always has me itching to replenish my arsenal with pretty new things, so I promise to fill you in on any new discoveries. And there have been some new discoveries...

We keep it real lotion hearts

My friend Raeleen has been a makeup artist for years. She is the one who did my makeup for my wedding, as well as my gorgeous bridesmaids. She lives and breathes beauty! Well now she has started a new venture, and I couldn't be more thrilled for her as she is extremely talented, kind, and knowledgeable. She started her own Etsy shop called we keep it real, and it's centered around natural, organic beauty products that are not only good for your body, but really lovely to keep in your bathroom or vanity as well.

Raeleen was sweet enough to send over two of her organic lotion hearts for me to try out. It is love, my friends! I have sensitive, dry skin and I've always struggled with peeling, cracking, and itching. Especially my legs! Our desert climate is not conducive to nourished skin, so I'm constantly battling it. Her lotion hearts smell like lavender, and they are packed with essential oils such as coconut and cacao. As soon as I get out of the bath or shower, I place one of the cute little hearts in the palm of my hand and using circular motions, I rub it onto my arms and legs. The feeling is almost like using argan or moroccan oil, but less greasy. The moisture is immediate, and it really lasts throughout the day. I highly recommend them! They would make adorable bridesmaid gifts as well :) Her passion for natural homemade products truly shows in everything she does, so please take a look at her new Etsy.

Rose De Chloe, Chloe

If you love roses, then you need this new fragrance by Chloe. Need. It's like wearing a bouquet, and although that may be too much for some, it's sheer heaven for those of us who obsess over flowers. I do also enjoy the original scent, with all of its elegance and sophistication. It's one of those scents that you can wear happily year-round, whether in the cold or in the sun. And there's something to be said for that, right? 

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Radiant Magenta & Dim Infusion

I must admit, I knew I wanted to try at least one Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush as soon as the hype started. I own the powder version in Dim, and absolutely love the finish it gives to my complexion. These blushes are gorgeous! Buttery, smooth, and blendable, they are also quite pigmented! Much more pigmented than they appear in the pan. My favorite of the two I have is Dim Infusion. It's the prettiest peachy coral that leaves such a glow to the cheeks. It's what I have on in my last few outfit pictures. Radiant Magenta is also very pretty, but I think I need a bit of a tan to pull it off the way I envision it and to really do it justice. It's extremely bright on my pale skin now, but I'm sure come Summer, that one will become my new favorite. All shades are swirled with a corresponding ambient lighting powder, so the effect is very dewy once applied. No glitter or shimmer either, just a soft sheen that's flattering on everyone. 

I'm so happy with all of my new beauty acquisitions, and I even have some more to share in the lip department. That post will have to wait until next week. See? I'm going to be a better beauty blogger again, promise. 

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Mini Reviews {Fashion & Beauty}

With all of the fantastic sales taking place this Holiday season, it's safe to say that I've been doing my fair share of shopping. Temptation is always high around Thanksgiving and Christmas, so while I shop for others, I also sneak in a few treats for myself as well. That's allowed right?!

I have picked up a few things that I just have to share with you! I wanted to review them in case any of you are in need of some last minute gift ideas, or if you've been coveting them for yourself.

Sam Edelman "Felicia" flats

I wear flats every single day to work. I own a few pairs, so I can switch up my look fairly easily without sacrificing style. However, I was in desperate need of flats that were really comfortable, didn't rub my heels, and didn't pinch my toes. These Sam Edelman flats are a dream come true! Hands-down the best fitting and most comfortable I have ever worn. The foot bed is cushioned, and the elastic around the heel does not rub or cause friction. It also does not slide down either, which is something I know a lot of us have experienced with other flats. The toes have plenty of room. I feel like I'm wearing house slippers! They come in leather, but I preferred the wine colored suede because they will pair well with other neutrals. They also come in a multitude of colors, even metallics! I will never spend money on other higher-end flats. These are perfect!

Baublebar Crystal Zodiac Bracelet (Bottom)

Baublebar Mini Pave Links Bracelet (Top, mine is in silver but it comes in gold as well)

I've had quite the affinity for Baublebar since I first spotted their pieces on my favorite bloggers and friends. Honestly, the addiction is a little out of hand these days (I have more jewels on the way!) but I just can't feel guilty about it because the quality is incredible and the price is attainable for someone with such an obsession. I wanted to rave about these bracelets in particular because they are both still available (to my knowledge) on the website and because they are perfect for the holidays or anytime! I've worn both out and have received so many compliments. They look beautiful on their own, but they also layer with other bracelets to create whatever look you are going for. I like to wear mine with my watches for a classic combination. 

Nails Inc. Gel Effect Polish in Kensington High Street and Porchester Square

Always on the quest for nail polish with a great formula, I decided to see what all the fuss was about during the Sephora V.I.B. sale. Good thing I did! These are exactly what I want in a polish - smooth formula that goes on opaque in one coat, and absolutely stunning in two! The gel effect lives up to the name. I have worn both of these shades, and they lasted for a full week with little to no chipping. I see more shades in my future. 

Urban Decay Naked 3

Okay. How hyped up are Urban Decay naked palettes? The hype is always unbelievable, and before I even have a chance to catch a glimpse of one, they are gone! Sold out in a matter of minutes! That always frustrates me, and I spend the next week convincing myself that I don't care, and I don't need another eyeshadow palette filled with neutrals. Wrong. I hate to tell you this, but naked 3 lives up to the hype. I know, I'm sorry I have to be the bearer of bad news. If you can't get ahold of it yet, don't worry. The hype will die down after the holidays and they will become more available. I own a lot of eyeshadows but I really don't have much, if any, of these rosy toned hues in my collection. They are warm, but not overly so. They really are just beautiful.  

Notice these are all positive reviews! I love it when that happens.

♥ Noelle

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Sunny Seoul & Summer of Love

I can't contain my excitement! I know I've been raving about many lipsticks on this blog as of late, and so you might be rolling your eyes at yet another "must-have" product of mine. I change lipsticks as often as...well you know. But once I find one that I really love, I keep it in heavy, heavy rotation. This one, gifted to me by my best friend is definitely one of them.

Sunny Seoul

Not only is it a creamsheen so it's pigmented and ultra smooth, but it also has just the right amount of pink and peach undertones. I think many people can wear it comfortably. It's beautiful for Summer.

I wanted to take the time to quickly update you guys on my Summer. I'm deeming it, "my Summer of love." Cheesy as it sounds, it's a pretty accurate description!

 

 

July:

* My best friend's bridal shower in Orange County.

*My bridal shower at one of our local wineries. It happens to also be my favorite.

*My second wedding dress fitting is on the 24th. Fingers crossed it fits me like a glove!

August:

*My soon to be sister in law is having a little girl. I'm so happy for her! She already has two amazing sons, and now her baby girl will complete the family. Her baby is due in October, but the baby shower is this month.

* My best friend will get married on August 16th! I can't wait to be her proud maid of honor. I'm an only child, so being in her wedding is extremely special to me :)

* Nate and I are planning a little trip to Catalina to do some snorkeling and prepare for our honeymoon in Hawaii.

September:

*I'm getting married! Lots of last minute planning will undoubtedly take up most of my time. We are also having our rehearsal on September 12th (which also happens to be my 29th birthday).

*Honeymoon in paradise to follow :)

I'm taking the rest of this week off to enjoy the holiday. Happy Fourth to my fellow Americans :)

See you next week!

Photos c/o Pinterest
 

♥ Noelle

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Daily Vs. Weekend & New Discoveries {Beauty}

Recently, there has been a drastic change between my daily makeup and the products I wear on the weekend. As many of you know, I work with kids that are involved in CPS. I travel to their placements and work with them directly on improving poor behaviors, teaching them coping skills, and helping them cultivate a talent, skill, or hobby in hopes that they may return to some semblance of normalcy. I spend most of the week driving. Dressed up clothes take a backseat, and my makeup is super simple Monday through Friday (unless I go out). I used to try and keep up with the makeup routine I was always comfortable with, but over the past few months, I've realized that less is more for work.

I use the Make Up For Ever HD because I find the formula very thin, almost like a tinted moisturizer. It covers some blotchy spots on my face, but it's very natural. I use MAC prep and prime highlighter under my eyes to brighten them up, some UD liner in Stash (which is an olive) on the lash line, and CG LashBlast mascara. I sweep a nude/peach matte shadow all over the lids and that's all the eye makeup I've been wearing. Some light pink cheeks, Revlon brow fantasy to cover some bare spots throughout my brows, and a dusting of powder and I'm out the door. Throughout the day, I apply a Revlon lip butter in Juicy Papaya or some old fashioned chapstick when my lips need the moisture.



My weekend makeup is definitely more fun! This is when I can play around and let my hair down so to speak. We usually have plans with friends, date nights, or we try to get out of town. We love our weekends!

I like to use my favorite foundation, Mat Velvet +, because it has amazing coverage and staying power. Once I apply it, I know it's there for the long haul. Hourglass primer also ensures a smooth, even coverage. I go to town with shadows (loving my MAC palette), although I keep them neutral because I enjoy playing up my lips with a bright color. I also find that I only reach for my bronzer and cheek highlighter during the weekend, but I'm not sure why. If you have any questions about specific products, please ask :)


Now on to my new "discoveries".

By far the best makeup remover wipes I've ever tried! That's a big statement right? How many times have I raved about Neutrogena, Ponds, etc.? Well I adored those, until I discovered these. Please try them! They are amazing. I love how saturated they are, even the very last sheet. They remove every last stitch of makeup.

I've wanted to try this body conditioner from Lush for quite some time now, but I finally went to the only Lush remotely close to me while I was on vacation last week. Now I've only used this twice, but it's SO GOOD! I used it to shave my legs and they have never felt so soft. I don't think I'll be using this in the shower daily, but definitely on the weekends when I want to feel extra special :) Did I mention it smells of roses? Gorgeous! 

Do you switch up your weekday Vs. weekend routine?

♥ Noelle

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Little Luxuries

 I've always said that there's no better pick-me-up than treating yourself to some pretty beauty products. They must be completely unnecessary too, and the more spontaneous the purchase, the better :)

Stila Countless Color Pigments in Lyric - At first I wasn't sure what to do with this until I realized what a gorgeous shade of hot pink it would produce on the cheeks. I take a big fluffy brush, swirl it in the pan and apply it generously to my face. The warmth it brings is beautiful, and it really lights up my complexion. Other pigments in the line I think would be great as eye shadow, but lyric in particular caught my eye as a blush. 

YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in # 6 (Pink in Devotion) - This is my first YSL lipstick in this famously luxurious tube. The color is so vibrant in person, but the glossy stain-like formula makes it a bit more wearable. It literally glides on the lips and the outcome? Well, just beautiful, especially for Summertime. Last worn here.

Fekkai Glossing Cream - I swore by this when I was in my late teens and early twenties, and I have no clue why I ever stopped! One little drop and my frizzy hair is transformed into brilliant shine. I found mine at Target, but I've seen it at Ulta, Sephora, and online. 

What little luxuries do you treat yourself to?

♥ Noelle

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Current beauty favorites for Spring

My current Springtime essentials:

1. Make Up For Ever HD Foundation - After testing it out for a couple of weeks, this foundation has really grown on me. I wasn't impressed at first, mainly because I am so in love with my Mat Velvet +. I like a nice, medium coverage to conceal the patches of discoloration I have. However, after a few days, my bias changed and I now love how natural it looks. I still prefer the overall coverage and lasting power of Mat Velvet. That foundation will always be my favorite, but the HD is beautiful for this time of year when I want a more dewy complexion. I think of it as a kicked up tinted moisturizer!
2. UNITE 7 seconds detangler - My soon to be sister-in-law/hair stylist swears by this leave in conditioner at the salon she works in. She got me hooked on UNITE products, and 7 seconds leaves my dry ends looking and feeling much softer and more manageable. I use this right before I blow-dry my hair.
3. Hourglass Ambient Powder - The much raved about face powder on YouTube intrigued me to the point that I had to see what all the fuss was about. Hourglass has a few shades, but I got mine in Dim Light. I sweep this all over my face as a setting powder. It's very finely milled so it doesn't leave me looking powdery or dry, just very natural.
4. Revlon Lip Butters in Juicy Papaya and Pink Lemonade - ADDICTED to these two shades. I wrote a post about juicy papaya here. Pink lemonade is a light peachy pink that's great for everyday.
5. Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturizer - Let me confess something guys...I tend to get really lazy about applying lotion once the weather heats up. My skin is extremely (and I mean extremely) dry in Winter, but as Spring and Summer come around, my skin becomes more normal. This spray - on lotion is great because it absorbs quickly and has a soft scent. Fast, easy, and it really does moisturize without leaving behind a film.

What are your current Spring beauty favorites?

♥ Noelle

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The J.Crew {Factory} Envelope Clutch

J.Crew is one of my favorite shop spots. They do color so effortlessly, and the polished, preppy, ultra feminine look is right up my alley. My only complaint are the prices. The quality is high and I'm a strong believer that you ultimately get what you pay for. But when I discovered J.Crew factory a few months ago, I became addicted. The same beautiful, colorful clothes and accessories that the company is known for, but for a fraction of the cost.

The envelope clutch has been my favorite not-so-secret find. It started with one in a vibrant raspberry suede. I've literally worn it to pieces, as the edges are beginning to look worn, discolored in some areas, and a little frayed.

Now I have these to add to the collection.

J.Crew Factory Envelope Clutch

 

The quality of these leather clutches is amazing. Soft and smooth, and the color is extremely saturated. I think these will hold up a bit better then my  suede version.

I love the versatility too. You can carry it as a clutch with the chain tucked inside, or use the chain and throw it over your shoulder. The burnished gold chain itself has a nice weight to it. It feels substantial, and not at all like an afterthought. I got black because every girls needs a classic black clutch, but I'm most excited to carry the neon. It will add so much to my neutral outfits. Note - the color is super bright in person. 

 

 

My little factory family :)

 

This is a very positive review, and I hope you give one a try!

 

Have a great weekend!

♥ Noelle

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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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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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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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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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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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