11.08.2016









Wearing //
Loft jeans, similar
J.Crew Factory clutch, similar
Stella & Dot necklace and ring (you need both)






I used to shop fairly often at Old Navy, but the quality of their clothing has always been hit or miss for me so I stopped going there for awhile. Recently, I decided to give them another look and I was pleasantly surprised with my purchases. I'm trying to cut back on shopping and have even decided to put myself on a ban for the remainder of the year. That might seem drastic but I'd rather focus my energy on re-styling the pieces I own and have recently bought, rather than constantly clearing out my closet for new things. But back to Old Navy. I really love the feminine lace detail at the neckline of my blouse, and the color is stunning. Jewel tones are my favorite this time of year, and although it's nothing ground-breaking, I like to mix them in with neutrals. The flats are also a great find. I've been wanting a pair of camel flats for months and I'm glad I didn't have to spend much at all on these. My Stella & Dot jewels pull it all together! Love them.

I hope you ladies are doing well. I've been in a funk for the past few days so I'm trying my best to shake it off. Maybe once the election is over tonight I'll feel better! We can probably all agree on that.

11.01.2016



As much as I love browsing Sephora, Ulta, and any drugstore in my area, I've come to the realization that I'm a complete bore when it comes to actually wearing makeup. It's pretty to look at, but ultimately I like doing just that most days - looking at it, and then proceeding to reach for easy neutral products that will get me ready in under ten minutes. I used to have fun with makeup, but now I prefer to enhance the features I like and just accept the ones I don't. I have a round face. That's a fact, deal with it. My brows are thinner than I'd like, my lashes are short, and I have a bump on my nose thanks to a dodgy game of dodgeball during elementary school. Instead of contouring myself to death, or spending money on lash extensions, I've come to terms that this is it! Quite possibly as good as it's gonna get.

But, there is one product I've been using for months now that makes getting ready still somewhat enjoyable. I hope this mini review helps you too if you're trying to downsize and cut back on time.

This is my foray into the Charlotte Tilbury line, and it definitely does not disappoint! I can understand why so many gurus love her products. I purchased this on sale during Nordstrom's anniversary back in the Summer, and I honestly have not used much of anything since. Everything you need is conveniently right here. Three neutral shadows, two VERY pigmented blushes (one peachy, one rose colored), a bronzer, and a beautiful natural looking highlighter that I slap on my eyes and cheeks. These colors are so universally flattering that I think many people will appreciate it. The powders are all smooth, pigmented, and long lasting. I'm tempted to try more from her line, especially her lipsticks but I'm holding back for now. If you're ever wondering what I'm wearing in my photos or on snap, it's this palette. 

Note - I checked Nordstrom's site and it's currently sold out. Darn! Not the best timing for this post, but I'm sure it'll come back in stock for the holidays. I linked to her website if you want to check out her other products. Most are dual purpose which is great!



All this being said, there's nothing that looks better on women than a smile. Had to say it.

10.27.2016







Wearing //
Express skirt, similar here & here
Nordstrom clutch, similar

Beauty //
Pedicure in Essie Flowerista 




It's about that time again. That magical moment each year where southern California finally starts feeling like Fall, and every woman I know gets so OMG excited to wear all the things - boots, plaid, sweaters, leggings, you name it. It usually lasts for a few days, and then just like that, the weather changes to Summer again and we go back to wearing tee shirts. Some refuse to accept this, and I completely understand the frustration. I used to be that person, until I finally realized that common sense says that people should dress for the weather, and not for the season. We live in a beautiful place so we may as well enjoy it and stop the complaining. Like one of my favorite quotes says, "nothing is under control" the least of which is the weather! Wherever you are, just embrace it. Unless you're so miserable that you plan on moving, then that's different!

But on this particular day, it did feel like Fall and I took advantage. Since it never gets that cold, the best way I know how to incorporate the season is by playing with jewel tones, moody lips and nails, and texture. I may be wearing a suede skirt and a thin plaid shirt, but it looks the part right? They say that life begins again in the Fall, and maybe it's true. I always associate new beginnings with the start of a new year, but it's comforting to think that we can start anew whenever we choose to. It's all a choice, and that we can control.

It's been awhile since I linked up but I'm doing so with Tara today :)

10.25.2016



I've used lip scrubs in the past, the most notable being by the brand Fresh. I liked it enough to use it up, but not so much that I repurchased as soon as it ran out.

My love for Sara Happ lip slip runs deep. I live in a dry, warm climate that gets really windy, and so my lips are usually also very dry. I have a tendency to lick or even bite them (a nervous habit I've had since I was a kid) and although I try my best to leave them alone, I manage to dry them out anyway. One thing that has helped is her lip balm, but another recent discovery is her lip scrub. Think of a lip scrub like a body scrub, meaning that its purpose is to exfoliate and prepare your lips for other products like lipstick and gloss. It helps ensure a smooth base for anything you decide to use. Liquid lipsticks are super trendy at the moment. Pretty, yes... but very drying!



The consistency is almost like wet sand. It's effective enough to slough off dry, chapped skin but it isn't harsh either. And the smell! The smell is so decadent! It literally smells like the red velvet cake that we had at our wedding. Part chocolate, part I don't know what but it's amazing I haven't eaten this little tub for dessert. I thought before opening the package that it would have an artificially sweet scent, but that's not the case. It smells like the real thing.

I use it about twice a week at night during my skincare routine. Then I follow it up with the lip slip and the next morning, my pout is soft and moisturized. I highly recommend treating yourself. This particular "flavor" is limited edition, but Sara Happ has a ton of other delectable scents if you're not into red velvet. Which is hard to believe but I'll let it slide :)