Favorite Jewels

 "Fashion is nothing without accessories." I used to have that quote framed and hanging on my wall for good reason. I go crazy at the mere site of handbags, scarves, and especially jewelry. As much as I try to stay away from the sparkling treasures displayed under glass at J.Crew, or the racks upon racks of colorful bits at Forever 21, I always seem to wander over to the jewelry department. "How did I get here?" is what I end up thinking to myself as I walk away with yet another chunky necklace or pair of simple studs.

In an effort to try and reel myself back from buying more and more, I decided to instead appreciate the stand-out pieces already in my possession. I do have some clear favorites that I wear over and over. I know you've seen these at some point, so no real surprises I'm sure.

Rings

Necklaces

Bracelets & Earrings

They cross the spectrum from higher end (Chanel, YSL) to mid (Sonya Renee, J.Crew) to cheaper alternatives (Forever 21, H&M). I'm no snob! When it comes to jewelry, I love it all!

Of course, I will keep adding to my favorites. Bracelets are my new obsession this season, and I want to add more for layering purposes. But, I will be more discerning on future shopping trips. I think quality over quanitity wins out.

What are your favorite jewelry pieces? What are you looking to add to your own collection?

♥ Noelle

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Weekend Beauty

I did some beauty shopping this weekend at Sephora and MAC. This is what came home with me:

1) Viktor & Rolf La Vie En Rose (Sephora exclusive). Okay, I thought that this perfume had been discontinued. When I finished my previous bottle, my fiance searched high and low for it. It is his favorite scent on me, and I wore it when we got engaged so it holds a special place in our memories. Funny how powerful a certain scent can be! Although I love my Prada Candy, nothing can compare to La Vie En Rose. I thought I would never find it again, so I was shocked when I walked into Sephora and it was right there on a display! Sephora must have repromoted it because the bottle looks a bit different. However, it is definitely the same scent. I want to wear it when we get married next year.

2) MAC Fix + is a product I've mentioned on the blog numerous times. I like to use it before bed after applying my moisturizer and eye cream, as well as when I want a quick pick-me-up during the day. I don't use it to set makeup, as I prefer Urban Decay All Nighter for that purpose. But nothing is as refreshing as Fix +.

3) Buxom Lip Creme in White Russian. I used this as soon as I bought it! Best nude ever! It's everything I've looked for in a nude. It doesn't wash me out, it actually brightens my face and makes my lips look fuller (although I don't need much help in that department). I highly recommend it. I wouldn't say it tingles, just feels very cooling on the lips. If you're a fan of the Kim Kardashian nude lip, I think you'll find this one to be supremely wearable, especially if you have lighter skin.

4) DiorSkin Nude Hydrating Concealer. I haven't tried this just yet, but am looking forward to testing it out. I've read great reviews. I will update very soon!




While we are on the subject of beauty, I am quite pleased with the Color Club polish I picked up last week in Modern Pink. It's such a beautiful neon. It isn't too outlandish, if that makes any sense. It stands out, but still walks the fine line between trendy and chic.

♥  Noelle

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Nailing it

Just some nail polish looks I'm loving from Pinterest. I love brights, neons, pastels, and glitter. People are getting so creative these days! As I've stated before, I think as long as you keep your nails manicured and relatively short, you can get away with almost anything.

I posted these on Instagram: New polishes in Flip Flop Fantasy by China Glaze and Modern Pink by Color Club. My girlfriends and I are long overdue on pedicures, so I'm bringing one of these along on our next pamper session.

I hope this gave you some ideas!

♥ Noelle

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Go Green

Leopard blouse - F21 (old), Green lace skirt & pink necklace - Francesca's, Bracelets - Michael Kors and Stella & Dot, Pumps - Nine West, Nails - Essie California Coral, Lips - Lancome Corail in Love

This is what I wore while winetasting on Sunday for my friend's birthday. What does one wear to such an occasion? Why leopard and green lace of course! Naturally, right? The tropical colors of my outfit livened things up. I can't get enough of the color green. First it was this dress. I liked it so much that when I spotted a lacey pencil skirt in an equally vibrant shade, I jumped at the chance to make it mine. It's the only pencil-type skirt I own. Tragic, I know.  I feel like I could wear this anywhere, anytime. It was quite the hit at the wineries :)

Oh, one more thing! I just discovered Instagram and it's so much fun! I never joined before because I have an android, not an iphone. I wasn't aware that there was Instagram for android users. Needless to say, I'm obsessed already! Follow me there (if you like) at Beautygirl24.

♥ Noelle

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Cinco De Mayo

It's so nice when a certain someone acts as my photographer!

Except when he does this:

Hmmmmm...

Floral blouse - Express (Similar), Skirt - Gap, Suede wedges - Target (here in Taupe), Necklace - H&M (old, but similar here), Rings - H&M (old) and YSL, Nails - Essie California Coral

This is what I wore yesterday. I know Memorial Day weekend is the official (unofficial?) beginning of Summer, but for some reason, Cinco de Mayo always jumpstarts the season for me.

Speaking of jumpstarting, I have been really into some new music. I do a lot of driving for work these days, and I swear I would DIE without good tunes to listen to. Some current favorites include:
1) Noel Gallagher's new record
2) Naked and Famous "Young Blood"
3) The Shins "Simple Song"
4) M83 "Midnight City"
5) The Black Keys

If you haven't heard any of these, whatya waiting for? I hope you had a great weekend!

♥ Noelle

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Down with J. Crew

After receiving my new J. Crew catalogue in the mail, I carefully flipped through each page in total admiration. I literally wanted everything! This is of course impossible. My wallet won't allow it. But I did create a little wishlist of sorts, just in case I happen to drive a full hour to the nearest store. Here's what I bookmarked:

Ring-Around Eyelet in Blue Grotto

Gorgeous blue color that would look great with denim shorts

Vintage Cotton V-Neck Tee

Gets rave reviews. You can never go wrong with a basic tee - the perfect blank canvas

Whisper Linen Cardigan in Summer Lime

How cute would this be with a neutral palette?

5" Chino Short

Love this in Neon Peach, Daiquiri Ice, and Casablanca Blue. I like my shorts a little longer, so the 5" might be worth checking out. They also come in a shorter 3" inseam.

Tessellate Necklace

In the catalogue, a model wore it with a peach/blush tee. Such a great pop of color

Double Crystal Brulee Necklace

I really want this!

Or, this one is pretty too

Crystal Venus Flytrap Necklace

Classic Leather Ballet Flat

You know I love my ballet flats! I think this neutral color would go with everything!

Margate Purse

Not that I need another beautiful handbag, but J.Crew offers gorgeous options. They are such a great combination between practical and polished.

It's safe to say I'm officially down with J. Crew. I'll do an update if I do decide to venture out and snag any of these lovelies.

Have you seen the May catalogue? What are your picks?

♥ Noelle

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