Spring 2017: Feminine Colors & Details

 Soft neutrals with delicate details are going to take over my closet this Spring. Everything I seem to be "liking" on Instagram or "pinning" on Pinterest resemble a page from one of those flowery romance novels. I'm eyeing everything in shades of blush, taupe, light grey, and cream. Ruffles, bell-sleeves, velvet, suede, soft fabrics...I think you get the picture. Even my beauty products look similar! Some of the items shown below I have recently purchased, some are similar. and a couple are on my wishlist.

What are you loving?

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A Valentine's Day Look

Here it is, the obligatory Valentine's day look. I'm a week early, but I wanted to get this out there in case anyone needs an outfit idea. The great thing about this one though is that it can be worn year-round. It's only a slight nod to the holiday. In the past I've gone all out with the pink and red, but now that I'm getting older, I think subtlety is better, don't you? Instead of bright red, how about burgundy? And in place of a vibrant pink, how about lilac or blush?

Wearing //

Loft blouse, similar

Express skirt, cute option here & here

Banana Republic bag, similar

Asos pumps, love these

Kendra Scott necklace

Stella & Dot ring, love this

Beauty //

Too Faced Melted Matte lips in "Queen B"

I am incredibly lucky to have so much love in my life. Not because they love me, but because I love them. On days where I feel like I'm spinning out, I try to pause and remember something about each of the special people I know. It could be a song that reminds me of that person, or a memory we created together. I've never been afraid of telling people how much they mean to me. Life is too short for that! So whether you're celebrating V-Day with your significant other, friends, or even alone, don't forget to reflect on the good in your life.

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Three Products You Have To Try

I never say "must-have" when it comes to beauty products anymore. We all have different needs, and what I consider to be a staple in my beauty regimen may not necessarily be yours. That being said, I've tried three products over the course of January that I really think most of you would love. Maybe you already do because I'm late to the game!

Too Faced Melted Matte Liquid Lipstick

• I must confess that after trying liquid lipsticks from various brands, I'm not too keen on them. They sound lovely in theory, but they dry my lips out and some colors come across as very chalky. They also set easily, so you have to be swift about application. 
• What drew me to this specific brand was the color (Queen B). It's a gorgeous mauve, and it lies somewhere in between pink and nude which makes it wearable for everyday. It has a lilac undertone on me.
• I like it because it dries down and feels like you are wearing nothing. It's important to have clean, moisturized lips before applying, otherwise it will settle into any lines or dry patches. But if you have a good canvas, the outcome is beautiful and looks very natural. 
• It isn't goopy or sticky. It also doesn't crack and lasts a few hours, almost like a stain. 

 L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara Primer

• Gina recommended this lash primer on her blog, so I decided to give it a try and can I just say, hello! My eyes look wide eyed and flirty.
• I have short, sparse eyelashes. I've thought about getting extensions but my year-round allergies make that impossible. Plus, I don't think I could afford the upkeep. I also am pretty hopeless with false lashes. I find that no matter what brand I buy, they always end up looking far too unnatural for my liking. A great mascara and this primer have made a big difference. 
• For reference, my favorite mascaras are CoverGirl Lash Blast, Too Faced Better than Sex, Benefit They're Real, and a new love I'll be reviewing in a separate post. 
• I first curl my lashes, do one coat of this primer, and then follow it up by using one of the above mascaras. 
• Yes, it's an extra step in my routine and I don't do it every single day. But on nights out and on weekends, the step is worth it.

It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream

• I have been working with Glo Professional for about two years, and I am very loyal to their brand. Why? Because the products work! I don't think I've ever been happier with my skin, and that says something when you're in your thirties. But I'm also a skincare junkie and sometimes veer away to try other brands. 
• Cue this super cream by It Cosmetics. I don't even know where to begin? It's thick, rich, and if I could bathe myself in a giant vat of this I most definitely would. There's a reason why it's called confidence in a cream. I use it at night, and the moisture is so effective that I can feel the results when I wake up in the morning. My skin feels soft and supple. They claim this is designed for all skin types. I have very dry skin, so for me it's perfect. For someone with oily skin, it might be too heavy but I can't really be sure since my main problem is eczema. 
• Ask for a sample if you can. Thank me later. 

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