Beauty Treatments While You Sleep?

It's easier now more than ever to "get your beauty sleep." That saying has been around for awhile but this new batch of treatments are relatively new. We all lead busy lives, and at the end of each day, I think the last thing we want to worry about is adding more steps into our nightly routines. But what I've discovered with the products below is that it is possible to wake up looking fresher than the night before without sacrificing time. These work for you while you catch some Zzzs!

Let's begin with the watermelon glow sleeping mask by Korean brand Glow Recipe. This is a multipurpose product that can be worn overnight, or as a quick treatment whenever you prefer. It claims to hydrate AND exfoliate. The consistency is very watery, but the gel glides on like a dream. It comes with a tiny spatula that picks up the product. I usually just dab it on my finger and then apply it to my face, especially on my cheeks where I need the most hydration. It feels cool to the touch, but then settles in nicely and surprisingly does not transfer onto your pillow overnight. It's formulated with watermelon, which is packed with vitamins and hyaluronic acid. The results? Smooth, post-facial looking skin for a brighter morning! 

An overnight cream that conditions your hair is much more effective than a regular deep conditioning treatment you use in the shower. My hair can get dry at the ends, and now that I'm working on growing it longer, I want to put off on getting trims too regularly. This mask helps me do that! I use it once per week, focusing on my ends. I then throw it into a low bun, sleep on it, and wash my hair as usual the next morning (I do this mask on the night I know I have to wash my hair the next day). It smells amazing and leaves my hair ridiculously soft! 

Glow Recipe  Living Proof

This is by far one of the best products I've used all year. Laneige is another Korean brand that I wasn't familiar with until recently. It's been hyped on blogs and social media alike, and because I'm a sucker for lip products, I decided to give it a try. It is extremely similar to Sara Happ, but I find that this is much more hydrating as a nightly balm. It coats the lips without being goopy, and forms a protective barrier that stays on until you rinse it off in the morning. You have to try it!

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

What do you think of overnight treatments? Have you used any of these yet?

Before I go, I wanted to share with you what I picked up from the Sephora VIB sale. It's the perfect time to stock up on your essentials or get a head-start on holiday gift giving. All three are "holy grail" in my daily routine. The shower oil keeps my eczema at bay, the concealer is perfect for covering under-eye circles, and the foundation gives a flawless finish that lasts all day. Give them a try if you haven't already!

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Skincare in Your 30's

Managing your skin once you hit your 30's can be a little daunting. So many of us still have the same concerns as we did in our 20's, but we are also trying our best to prevent signs of aging. After being on birth control pills for nearly all of my adult life, my skin has changed drastically in just three months time. I used to battle dryness, and now I'm more oily and prone to cystic bumps along my chin and jawline (in fact, I'm nursing a giant monster right now). Talk about an identity crisis! Just when I had my skincare routine down, my hormones shifted and now I'm back to feeling like a teenager again...A teenager that is worried about fine lines and wrinkles on top of breakouts.

Everyone's skin needs are different of course, but I think it's imperative that we all take great care of it. It's the first thing people notice! It's easy to be careless when you're younger, but once you reach 30, it's high time to lock down a routine that works for you, invest in some quality products, and really take skincare seriously. Here is what I do for a healthy, youthful glow:

Step 1) Cleanse

I wash my face morning and night. At the moment I'm using a cleanser by L'Oreal, but I also love Cetaphil, First Aid Beauty, and Glo Skin Beauty. I don't think the brand matters so much as the effectiveness. Use whatever works for you, but don't forget to wash off the day's makeup! This is the key to having great skin.

Current cleanser

Step 2) Exfoliate

I don't exfoliate every single day, only twice per week but it definitely makes a difference! If you have sensitive skin, once a week is good enough to slough off dead skin cells. Out of all the products I use, Exfolikate is the one I recommend to absolutely everyone. It's pricey, but a little goes a long way and it's the best I've used.

Step 3) Moisturize

Moisturizing has been the area in my new routine that I've been struggling with. My old moisturizers are fairly thick and heavy, and I've been so paranoid about developing a breakout. However, keeping your skin hydrated is important for all types so I've been using my moisturizers sparingly and with a lighter hand. I apply before makeup in the morning (I use one with SPF) and at night before. I also use an eye gel to help keep my undereye area soft yet firm.

Step 4) Treat

My problem areas include some discoloration on my cheeks and around my nose, as well as old acne marks on my chin. Lately I have been using a spot treatment on my chin to get rid of blemishes, but I don't use it nightly because it can be very drying to the surrounding skin. If you have any concerns like these, a great serum can help lessen the appearance of unwanted marks.

Step 5) Prevention

Lastly, the best time to prevent lines and wrinkles is in your late 20's and early 30's. Your skin is most resilient! I use a serum with retinol and fatty acids. Below are some newer products that I'm excited to try and two of them moisturize while you sleep. I'll let you know how I like them but i've only read positive things.

Is your skincare routine similar? If you have any specific questions let me know!

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L'Oreal Paris: Stand-out Products

These products were sent courtesy of L'Oreal Paris. All opinions expressed below are my own and I was not compensated in any way. 

As most of you may know, L'Oreal was generous enough to gift me with a PR package a few months back that included their newest products of 2017. I've been playing around and testing them since, and these are the stand-outs that I will (and have) purchased with my own money. Read on for my thoughts!

1) Infallible Pro-Glow 24 hour foundation: This light-weight foundation matches my skin to a T. I've always been reluctant to buy drugstore foundation because the color match is usually all wrong, and the formulation can be hit or miss. This foundation is probably best suited for drier skin, as it definitely promotes a dewy appearance. It's very watery in consistency, but it's also buildable. I shake mine before applying it with a damp beauty blender. My skin looks instantly more radiant, as well as moisturized. In fact, because it has SPF 15, I think it's perfect as a tinted moisturizer.

2) Pure-Clay Cleanser: This is the most incredible feeling cleanser I've ever used, and I've tried a few over the years. You know when you get a facial and the esthetician paints on a layer of green mud? Or at least that's what mine does! It feels exactly like that...like you're at a spa and getting a real full-blown treatment. L'Oreal has three different types and I like them all! This is currently the one I am using, meant for more glowing skin (notice a trend?)

3) Pure-Clay Mask: This is a great mask for getting rid of blackheads and other blemishes. It also banishes oil. Feels and smells amazing on and then rinses to a squeaky clean.

4) Voluminous Lash Primer: I had tried this before, and when I was sent the package I was thrilled because mine had almost run out. I never thought a lash primer would actually help with building volume, but it really does! I look like I'm wearing falsies when I apply a thin layer before using the next product...

5) Lash Paradise: You can read my thoughts in this post. One thing to note that I didn't mention - although I love this mascara for its volumizing and lengthening effect, I had to purchase another one because it dried up too quickly. That's the only downside. Otherwise, it's the only mascara I'm wearing and I don't plan on changing that. If I do, I'll let you know.

6) Brow Stylist Shape & Fill: I can't rave enough about this! I've used brow pencils in the past from different brands, but I wasn't crazy about any of them. What I love about this pencil is that it has an angled tip which allows for precise control. I just sweep it on the sparse areas where I need color the most. The spoolie on the other end of the pencil is an actual brush, not some plastic wand that barely does anything. Brush hairs, apply the product, then brush again. It lasts all day.

If you have any questions, I'm here to help. I've been swearing by these for quite awhile now 😊

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Fall Forecast: Must-Have Lip Colors

There's one thing I love most about changing up my beauty routine in the Fall, and it's all about the lips. In Summer, I still wear color but I go for a balm with SPF, followed by a bright stain on top. Heavy lipsticks don't seem appropriate, do they?

However, once we kiss Summer goodbye, I begin reaching for saturated plums, reds, and rosy hues. A glam lip automatically transforms your look, and it beautifully compliments all of the rich textures we begin to wear. Think about the trends we are seeing: velvet, chunky knits, lace, suede - all gorgeous materials that look even more sumptuous paired with a striking bold lip. Obviously I'm all about it and I've listed my favorite lipsticks this year below.

NARS "Sex Machine" - a slightly shimmery rose that's great for day. It's my new neutral. 

Glo Skin Beauty "It Girl" - pinky plum cream. 

M.A.C. "Ravishing" - red that leans orange. 

Clinique "Black Honey" - looks scary in the tube but applies like a balm and has some shine to it. I remember it was a big seller in the 90's! It's very sheer so it's a great way to start if you haven't delved into bold lips yet. 

Left to right

Glo Skin Beauty It Girl, NARS Sex Machine, Clinique Black Honey, M.A.C. Ravishing 

Other lip colors I love for Fall:

NYX Butter Gloss in Angel Food Cake

Too Faced Spice Spice Baby

All by M.A.C. - Syrup, Twig, See Sheer, Hot Gossip, Velvet Teddy

Can you see how beautiful a bold lip will be with all of Fall's outfits?

Do you play with darker lip colors in the Fall? Let me know of any I may "need."

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New L'Oreal Lash Paradise

I was kindly sent a PR package from L'Oreal a few weeks ago.

Aside from the fact that a well-known beauty brand gifted me ANYTHING, there was one product that really stood out. Voluminous lash paradise mascara has turned me once again into a drugstore beauty believer. Here's why:

It lifts the lashes and holds a curl until it's removed.

It has great coverage in just one coat, but is also buildable. I usually opt for two coats. The result is fluttery lashes that look long and full.

It doesn't flake off. I can't stand mascara that does that!

The wand as you'll see below is large, but not so big that you can't coat every lash. Thicker wands often feel awkward but this one allows for optimal control. I normally prefer plastic bristles as they grip lashes better, but this one is perfect for building tons of volume.

The formula isn't watery, but it's also not too thick. My gripe about the regular Voluminous mascara is that it translates to goopy lashes. This formula is much easier to work with and layer without looking overdone.

Wearing the lash paradise

I don't plan on purchasing any high-end mascara after trying this. In fact, this is the only mascara in my collection now. You know that Too Faced mascara that I once raved about? It also comes in a pink tube...this is even better than that, and at a fraction of the price! 

Have you tried lash paradise? If not, make a Target run. You're welcome 😙

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Style & Beauty Updates

Every year I shop the Nordstrom anniversary sale. Or shall I say, the #nsale? I've been doing so since college. However, blogging has really changed the game over the last couple years and now more people are aware of it. That's great! It's the perfect time to preview what the coming season will look like, and it's also good for picking up basics.  But I'm going to be frank - the constant barrage of bloggers posting about it has left a bad taste in my mouth and this time around, I placed a very small order. I tried on some things in-store and nothing really wowed me. It seems like styles I already own are still on trend for Fall so I passed on several things. You have to be strategic!

I did grab this candle set by Voluspa. I'm not very discriminating with scents as long as they actually permeate the room. This is a great deal because you get three candles for less than the price of two. Otherwise, I don't buy these at full price anymore.

This BLANKNYC suede jacket is on back order, but it will ship in a few days and considering how hot it is, I won't need it for a long time anyway. This is one item I knew I wanted even before the sale began. I was immediately enamored with the spice shade as it flatters my coloring. I sized up to a large after trying on the medium. It's worth it, feels like butter!

In my quest for longer lasting lip stains, I spotted these by the brand Pixi at Target. One end is the gel stain, while the other is a gloss. I've worn both shades (pink and berry) and love them. They feel smooth on the lips and the stain lasts all day. The gloss, not so much, but it feels really moisturizing. They look much brighter in the tube than they do on my lips, so don't be fearful if you're worried about too much color.

Lately I've been thinking about incorporating more of my weekday style into my IG feed. I've refrained in the past because my weekday wardrobe is redundant and I wasn't sure anyone would find it helpful. Would you guys want to see that? It won't take over my feed but I figure two or three times per week might suffice. Let me know! Here is one I posted on Tuesday.

I'm living in my Express barcelona camisoles, which sadly seem to be discontinued. I've also been wearing my flats again to switch up Summer sandals. I feel so much more put-together when I pair anything with flats!

Have a great weekend!

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Easy Summer Beauty Essentials

I feel like I say this every Summer - when the temperatures rise, the last thing I want to feel on my skin is a ton of makeup. I realize I don't wear much anyway, but I especially go light during the months of June through September. It gets excruciatingly hot in Temecula!

My routine consists of: 

Taking advantage of glowing skin while keeping sweat at bay.

Enhancing my light tan but protecting from too much sun exposure.

Fun sweeps of color across my lips that look stained from eating a popsicle.

Polished but super low-maintenance.


Below are my current favorites for achieving this:

Cargo HD bronzer, Avene sunscreen

UD facial mist (smells like coconuts)

Lancome juicy shaker 

Before I go and enjoy the weekend, I want to remind you guys that today is the last day to enter my Nordstrom & blogiversary giveaway! Early access to the Nordstrom sale began yesterday so it's the perfect chance to do some shopping if you win the E-gift card. Good luck! I'll announce the winner here next week. Anyone do any shopping yet?

I also want to say a HUGE thank you for all of your warm responses to Wednesday's real talk post. I was so touched and am incredibly humbled by your kindness. I will be responding to all of you today, but I promise I read each one as they were coming in. It is amazing to hear that I'm not alone. Logically I know this, but it's reassuring anyway. Have a happy Friday!

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My Experience with Botox

Botox is something I've considered for awhile, but it wasn't until a year ago that I decided to try it.

 I'm not going to claim that fillers/injectables should be taken lightly, or that my experience will be yours. Everyone is different. If you're serious about trying it, I recommend doing as much research as possible. You can even go in for a consultation to make sure your doctor is reputable and that you feel comfortable. I cannot stress enough how personal this choice is. There will always be risks involved and you have to weigh the pros and cons. There will also be people that may judge you, although I prefer to be open and honest about mine because I wanted this for myself. What's the point in hiding it? Fear of judgement is not helpful to anyone, and since I have this platform, I would feel phony not discussing it with you. Some women (and men) do hide it, and that's fine. To each their own.

I can only speak to my experience, why I decided to do it, and why I wish it wasn't still taboo.

I decided I wanted botox in between my eyebrows while I was sitting at a restaurant and an older gentleman handed me some advil because he said I looked like I had a headache. Bizarre yes, but it reaffirmed what I had noticed for a long time. I have a bad habit of squinting and frowning, and although my astigmatism is partly to blame, I also just have that nervous tension in my forehead. It's true that worrying ages you! I especially began noticing the frown lines while I was doing my nightly skincare routine, and as much as I wanted a miracle with the products I use, there is no such thing as a magic cream. I knew that if I really wanted to see results, I would have to go by way of injections. 

I did a ton of research on the internet, asked acquaintances who have had botox before, and finally settled on a med spa in Carmel Valley. My best friend went with me for the first time as moral support. I was terrified. I didn't want to look unnatural, just refreshed. I was also concerned that it would be painful. Fortunately, my doctor is amazing and is very conservative with her injections. She explained everything step by step as she went along. First came the mini ice pack that I held to the injection site. She had me frown as I normally do, and then went in with the needle. "Wait, was that it?" Before I knew it, the procedure was over and she smiled at me saying that most of her clients come in with the notion that getting botox will be painful or invasive...it's not. Listen, I'm a baby and have a low threshold but even I think it feels like a pin prick that only lasts seconds! She had me hold the ice pack to my forehead for a few minutes and instructed me not to lie down for a couple hours because the botox can migrate. She gave me a list of side effects that I should look out for, but luckily I haven't had any issues.

 I have done this four times and I am really happy with the results. My frown lines are smoother and lessened, but I don't look like I've gone off the rails. 

All this being said, I can no longer continue to get botox because I want to start a family and no reasonable doctor would perform this, even if you are simply trying. I plan on doing it again in the future because the results are worth it. Doctors recommend getting botox every three months for maintenance, otherwise the lines will come back. For me, that's the only downside. I have never had anything else done to my face nor to my body, but I really wish it wasn't such a hush-hush topic. Why is it still taboo? It's admittedly more common these days and it's also safer but as I stated before, there are always going to be risks. My rule of thumb is that if you do it for yourself and nobody else, you have nothing to be ashamed of. I feel very comfortable with my decision, and it has allowed me to feel more confident. That's reason enough for me to do it again once I am able to. 

If you have any specific questions don't hesitate to ask! Happy Monday.

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Beauty: Spend vs. Save

We are all on a budget, and as someone who really enjoys trying new beauty trends and products, I have to pick and choose what to spend my money on and where I can cut corners. We all do this I'm sure!

What I Spend On:

1. Gel Manicures. Cost, $25 per month

I can't believe how much I enjoy gel nail polish. I first decided to get a gel mani last Summer during my sister-in-law's wedding activities. I've always loved doing my own nails, and I have quite an extensive collection of Essie, O.P.I. and the like. But I didn't want to worry about chipping, so I went to a salon that I had heard wonderful things about. A year later, and I'm still trying to justify my monthly manicure. I keep telling myself that the next time "will be the last time" but I can't give it up. It doesn't help that I enjoy talking to my manicurist! She's pregnant and when she goes on maternity leave, I think that'll be my push to take a break. Maybe...don't hold me to it. 

2. Hair Blow-Outs. Cost, $60 per month

This is my biggest treat, and I do it about twice a month. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but I swear it does wonders for my confidence. I can feel like a slob, walk into a salon, and leave feeling like royalty. I don't know what it is, but if I had to stop all beauty treatments aside from one, a good blow-dry is something I wouldn't give up. Maybe I have a slight complex which I won't get into here, but my hair has always bothered me. If it looks decent, I'm a happy girl. Weight fluctuates, we get older, but a good blow-dry won't disappoint. 

3. Botox. I've done it four times total. Cost, $130 per session

I've mentioned botox in a couple of comments to my readers, but I've been hesitant to write about it at length for fear of being judged. There, I said it! Before my first appointment, I did a ton of research. I researched so much that I waited over a year to finally go ahead with it. I was extremely nervous, and even though I know people who have had cosmetic surgery, I was afraid that getting botox would make me look unnatural. You know what I'm talking about. We've all seen people on social media that look pulled and bulgy in all the wrong places. Some people become unrecognizable. I only get it in between my eyebrows, where the constant worry and anxiety I manage turns into deep frown lines. I don't want to look concerned all the time. However, because we are planning to have a baby, I think I'm done for awhile because it can be harmful and I would never risk that.

If you'd like to hear about my experience, let me know! Botox and fillers aren't as taboo these days, but I still feel sheepish. That being said I'd actually love to do an entire post, if you care to read. 

What I Save On:

1. Facials

I can count on both hands how many times I've had a facial, and although they are definitely relaxing, I actually enjoy doing my own mini facials using my own products at home. I think if you have scarring or acne, facials are probably more of a necessity. For me, I usually reserve one night a week to turn on some music, throw my hair in a ponytail, and use a sheet mask. I also use Fresh and Milk makeup. 

2. Hair Cut & Color
I think by now you've probably noticed that I don't fuss with my hair. I let it air dry during much of the Summer, or I get a blow-out. My hair is fairly healthy because I don't color it often. About three times a year, I darken it or just do a glaze for shine. I keep playing with the idea of lightening it, but I just can't bring myself to do it. I like how low-maintenance it is, and it allows me to get my blow outs without feeling too terribly guilty. As for the cut, a simple trim every three months is enough.

3. Tanning Treatments & Products
Once upon a time, I was a sun worshiper. I would lie on my patio in the dead of Summer, bronzing lotion slathered all over my body. I still enjoy the sun, but I don't actively seek out a tan appearance. I wear sunscreen religiously, a hat, and sunglasses (muumuu optional though I like those too). Nate teases me because whenever we are outside, I'm the one that has to sit or stand in the shade. I don't mind being fair skinned anymore. As long as I have a good moisturizing lotion mixed in with some glowy liquid highlighter, I'm good to go!

What do you ladies splurge on, and what do you save on? I'm curious about this topic so please share below! 

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VIIcode O2M Oxygen Overnight Eye Mask

This post is sponsored by VIIcode. All opinions expressed are my own. 

Now that I'm well into my thirties, skincare is my main concern in my beauty routine. I know I've said this before and I'll say it again - no amount of high-end makeup can cover up problematic skin. If you don't have a good canvas, there really isn't much you can do. My skin looks better than it ever has, and I know it's because I'm making it my priority every morning and evening. I can comfortably go without wearing makeup on some days, and I love the freedom and self-confidence that comes along with being able to do that!

One product that has entered the beauty market over the last year or so are eye gels. I'm sure you've all seen them alongside sheet masks and even lip masks. I have used a different brand before, and while I love those for a quick fix, I wanted to try something with a little more lasting power. When I was contacted by VIIcode to sample their oxygen overnight eye mask, I was ecstatic. Banishing puffiness and under eye wrinkles while I sleep? Sold! Sign me up for that. 

The box comes with six treatments. They call it a treatment because it's the only eye mask that you can use overnight as you're sleeping. For best results, you should use them two to three times per week. I still have one more pair left and I'm saving it for my Las Vegas trip on Sunday night.

What I like about them is how saturated they are. The gel formula really sticks to the skin and feels incredibly soft and cooling. It's been so hot here the last few days and using them has been a soothing treat.

You can wear them overnight for up to eight hours, but I think my maximum number has actually been around seven because I'm not a good sleeper. However, I still saw amazing results and even Nate commented on how much better my under eye bags looked, or rather, the lack thereof. I don't yet have any wrinkles around my eyes, so I can't attest to disappearance of those. I believe these are so moisturizing though that fine lines will definitely benefit.

I'm a side sleeper so I worried they would slip right off during the night. However, they stayed in place which is quite a feat. I'm impressed! These would be great to wear on a night before a big event, when you want to look extra refreshed.

What do you ladies think? Have you tried eye masks before? Thank you to Elle at VIIcode for kindly sending these to me. 

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Blue Floral Dress

Wearing //

Lulu's dress, similar love this one and this maxi

Express petite blazer

J.Crew pumps, similar color & similar

Banana Republic bag, similar here & here

Beauty //

Lips in YSL Le Orange

Tarte In Bloom 2 eyeshadows
Kevyn Aucoin Neo-Limelight highlighter

This blue floral dress that I bought last year from Lulu's is still a gem in my closet. It's incredibly flattering with its fit and flare style, and you know I love the combination of cobalt and white. I wore this on Saturday for a day filled with pinot noir and music at the winery we belong to, a quick pop in to Ulta, and of course blog photos at Temecula Creek Inn.

Do you ladies like this location? I realize all of my outfit photos are redundant because of the same backdrop, but we find that the lighting is the most even and it's protected from the wind. But let me be completely honest - I love photos here because they are typically flattering. We have tried other areas around town but usually end up defeated due to high winds, patchy light, and too many people.

Other things I'm loving about this look in particular:
My gel pink nails with glitter at the tips, slightly faded out.
This YSL lipstick in Le Orange that I've blogged about before. In fact, that post has been my most popular and I have no idea why!

How are you doing this week? Good I hope. Linking up with On the Daily Express and Straight A Style today.  Also linking up with I do deClaire and Pumps & Push ups.

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My Favorite Spring & Summer Fragrances

Both Spring and Summer are my favorite in terms of fragrance. With warmer weather comes softer scents because I don't like to wear anything heavy on my skin. Who does when it's hot and humid? My perfumes are always in heavy rotation, according to mood and if there is a special event I'm attending. It's true what people say about the power of your senses, and when I need a boost, I choose certain perfumes to wear over others. However, they all fall into two categories. 

Floral

Ocean Inspired

First, let's talk about my Spring category. There's nothing more feminine than smelling like a flower, right? My ultimate is rose. It reminds me of my great grandmother who would crush actual rose petals and rub them on my wrists as a child. A bit eccentric I guess but I think she predisposed me to my love of flowers. I also like a hint of vanilla musk thrown in to round out the scent.

Philosophy Summer Grace - Bright floral notes with the carefree ease of Summer. Interestingly enough, I wear this year-round though it's definitely meant for warmer seasons.

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb "La Vie En Rose" - Strong citrus and musk scent but with delicate floral. It's the lighter version of the original flowerbomb. This has sentimental value for me as I wore it on my wedding day and is Nate's favorite scent.

Chloe Roses De Chloe - This smells of roses, no big surprise there. It's subtle, light, and perfect for Spring. I think out of this category, it's the easiest to wear and has mass appeal.


Summer/ocean inspired scents are probably the category I wear most often because I love the beach and anything that reminds me of a day by the coast. I can't express this enough! Since I can't always be near it, I wear fragrances that make me feel as though I am.

Bobbi Brown Beach - The beach in a bottle! It's rather strong, consisting of a suntan lotion smell that apparently is not Bobbi's intended purpose if you read about it. The real notes are sea spray, jasmine, and mandarin. This isn't for everyone. I think only a true beach person will appreciate it, and that's not to sound condescending! Just the truth.

Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt (1.0 oz) - Bergamot, sea salt, driftwood, sage, musk. Read more about it here. 

Kai - Gardenia with "white exotics." Not sure what that means exactly, but this scent reminds me of plumeria and Hawaii. The oil melts onto the skin and layers well with other oils. It fades nicely, so much so that I can smell it on my skin even after a night's sleep. Read more here.



Which would I universally recommend? Kai and Jo Malone, the loveliest of the bunch.

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My Beauty Hacks

We all have little tricks and shortcuts when it comes to our beauty routines. Am I right? I'm not sure any of the below "hacks" are groundbreaking (I probably picked up most by reading magazines), but I have been using them for years. In case any of you are in need of some budget and time saving tips, here are the ones I love.

1. Mix eye cream with concealer to give a smooth, creamy finish. Sometimes I'll even pat a bit of eye cream after I've finished my makeup just for that extra bit of freshness around the eyes. Just don't rub! Lightly use your ring finger and tap the product on to apply and blend in.

+

2. Use your favorite body lotion or hand cream to smooth frizzy hair in a pinch. I keep a travel size tube in my bag just in case!

3. Afraid of bright or dark lip colors? Use your fingers to tap the product onto lips instead of swiping from the tube or using a lip brush (just make sure your hands are clean). I also put lip balm on top to soften the color.

4. This may sound completely shallow, but one of the first things I notice on other women are their nails. However you prefer yours, please just make sure they aren't chipped! I know that's easier said than done but I really believe that having nice looking nails helps you look more polished. Pun intended.

5. Use coconut oil to shave. I get mine from the grocery store in a big tub. It's cheap, soothing, and great for all skin types.

6. Mix in liquid highlighter or loose shimmer powder into your lotion for glowing legs. Heck, put it everywhere!

7. Use dry shampoo as volumizer. I haven't bought a volumizer in months because I find that dry shampoo does a better job at lifting roots. Plus, I hate using multiple hair products when it's not even necessary.

8. Apply bronzer in a "3" shape, not all over the face like I once used to. It looks the most natural.

9. I wash my brushes with my face cleanser. I'm a big fan of double duty.

10. Use eczema cream on your chest and neck, even if you don't suffer from eczema. It really smooths lines and wrinkles much better than regular lotion.


Do you have any beauty hacks I need to know about? Let's grow this list!

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Kevyn Aucoin Neo-Limelight in Ibiza

Indoors with no flash

Natural sunlight outdoors, no flash

This won't be a review per se because I've only recently purchased this highlight powder and I've used it a handful of times. I normally like to test out products for a longer period so I can really feel confident I'm giving my best opinion possible, but this product is so damn beautiful that I just had to chat with you about it.

It's the Kevyn Aucoin Neo-Limelight in Ibiza, and it's described as an irridescent glow. I've really changed my perception of highlighters in general. I used to go for golden shades, but after discovering M.A.C. extra dimension skin finish in Soft Frost, I now prefer more of an incandescent gleam that changes colors as you move in different lighting. It's much more modern, and I'm noticing these types of other-worldly beauty products everywhere! You would think that they give off too much shimmer or look unnatural but I find that the very opposite is true. With this palette in particular, you can use the various shades on their own, ranging from soft gold to purple. Or you can swirl your brush into the whole thing which is what I do. The result is a beautiful lavender sheen with hints of pink and gold. I dab the powder onto my cheekbones, down my nose, and even above my cupid's bow. I attempted to swatch them on my arm, but the colors are so subtle that you couldn't tell. I recommend looking at it in store (I got mine at Sephora).

Would you try these new modern highlighters, or are you hesitant? If so, don't be! Start with the M.A.C. Soft Frost first, and then get back to me.

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