Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

As promised in this beauty post, I have some serious thoughts about the Tarte shape tape concealer. It's really, really good.

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Prior to giving this a go, I had been using and loving the NARS creamy radiant concealer. I was extremely happy with it until my skin changed after stopping birth control pills and it became oily. After that, the NARS wasn't quite enough and it no longer lasted throughout the day. I needed something stronger!

I mistakenly thought shape tape was sold everywhere, but it's actually only available at Ulta or Tarte Cosmetics. I walked into Ulta and chose the shade "light neutral." The range of colors is great, with tones varying from warm to cool.

Ladies, I LOVE this concealer. I haven't reached for anything else in my collection, and I'm even wearing it in place of foundation on days where I just want a brighter complexion.

The doe-foot applicator is much larger than others I have tried, so it's great all over the face, not just under the eyes. Hence, the reason why it's perfect for contouring! I personally don't contour, but if you like a sculpted look, getting this concealer in a couple different shades for that purpose would be ideal.

The formula itself is thick and opaque. It covers old acne marks seamlessly, along with any redness or darkness. I use a damp sponge to pat it on under my eyes and on spots along my chin. I then set it with this translucent powder. 

It actually lasts too! It doesn't budge from the moment I put it on until the end of the night.

I think if you're looking for a full-coverage concealer, you'll really enjoy shape tape.

Have you tried it? What's your favorite concealer?

Continue the post

Five Must-See Wineries in Temecula Wine Country

Temecula is a fairly small town about an hour north of San Diego. I've lived here most of my life, and although I have a love/hate relationship with remaining so close to where I grew up, there is one thing I absolutely do love about this area - the wineries. Even if you aren't too keen on wine, passing some time on a lazy Sunday afternoon is sure to please. I've seen all different types of people enjoying themselves, from bridal showers to retirement parties, birthdays, anniversaries, you name it. Weddings are of course a big draw too, and you'll probably spot a blushing bride at one of the popular venues.

I won't claim that I've been to every single winery Temecula has to offer, but I have been to most. In preparing this post, I thought about a few things that I feel are universal to having a great experience. They include: friendly staff, beautiful grounds, ambiance, and of course good wine! With those criteria in mind, I have rounded up five wineries that you must visit if you're ever in town.

South Coast Winery

South coast is probably Temecula's most popular winery. It has a luxurious spa, so it's perfect for a girls' day! 

Wearing // Jack by BB Dakota dress, Similar sandals, Loeffler Randall bag, Kendra Scott earrings

Ponte Winery and Inn

Check out the cellar lounge at the Inn, which is directly next door to the winery itself. We stop here for a quick drink sometimes when we are wanting something other than wine.

Wilson Creek

This is the brunch spot! Wilson Creek is known for its champagne, in particular the almond champagne. Try it, but don't forget the Tahitian Vanilla as well. 

Robert Renzoni

This is the winery that Nate and I belong to, and by belong I mean we are wine club members. We get two bottles of hand selected wine every other month, and we can utilize certain perks for members only. Their wines are, in my humble opinion, the best in Temecula. Try "Big Fred's Red" or their "Lyric Rose." The winery itself reminds me of something you'd see in Tuscany. 

Miramonte

This winery stays open until 10pm during peak season in Summer, complete with live music. Try the sangria! It's all we ever drank there. We used to be members at Miramonte but it became so crowded that we decided not to renew our membership. It's truly beautiful though, as it has the best views of the countryside. 

Carol's Restaurant at Baily

Although Baily didn't make the cut for top five, I do highly recommend their restaurant. It's only open from 11AM - 3PM on the weekends, but it's worth it! I love the tossed cobb salad, sweet potato fries, and shrimp scampi. 

There are guided tours, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, and more if you want to do something a bit more family-friendly. Temecula wine country is gorgeous and I'm so grateful it's down the street from our house! I hope you'll give it a try if you're ever in southern California! 

Continue the post

Currently // April

As promised yesterday, I'm linking up with Anne in Residence and I am Teacher Fit for current April updates. You'll surely notice a Spring theme with the prompts! Spring is probably the most beautiful period here in California so I'm thrilled that it's here.

***We went up to Big Bear two weeks ago and although we were disappointed that there wasn't much snow, the lake looked breathtaking! It was my first time in Big Bear***

What I'm Currently...

Buying: All things for Spring, which really translates to Summer as well. My big splurge of the season has been my new straw bag from Clare V. I wanted to get a more budget-friendly option because there a ton out there, but I kept going back to the petite Alice. You ladies know I'm into quality over quantity so I'm very happy with my choice. Perfect to carry with the swingy dresses I live in during the months ahead. 

Showering: with delight every morning because of the most delicious smelling bath product. I've written about my love for L'Occitane before, and it continues to be the one beauty treat I can't quite go without. It has definitely improved the eczema on my arms and legs. Gina mentioned this refillable bag and I ordered one right away!

Making: plenty of healthy (albeit extremely easy) meals. Think salads using whatever vegetables we have on hand, chicken that you simply season and bake in the oven, turkey burger patties, and eggs with chilli lime seasoning and basil pesto. Actually, I've been putting pesto on everything lately! I get mine from Costco in a big jar and drizzle it on when I want extra flavor. Try it!

Expecting: to experience some sadness when our next door neighbors move to Idaho in the coming weeks (the great mass exodus of California as they call it). I get it. Two of our close friends are also thinking of moving out of state, due to the high cost of living here. I sincerely doubt I could ever leave, but it's understandable especially with children. I know it will be hard to say goodbye to not only the sweetest neighbors' we've met, but also to their adorable little dog who loves to poke his head in our yard to say hi to Nettie. 

Cultivating: a YouTube music video playlist. Does that count as cultivation? My current favorite video is from The Lumineers. I can't get them out of my head since seeing them perform a few months ago! The video for "Sleep on the Floor" has become a fantasy of sorts for me. I would love to pick up and just go on a road trip across the country with Nate. You should watch it, til the very end. 😊

What have you guys been up to? Share any of your answers to these below!

Continue the post

How To Dress Up A Kimono

Wearing // Similar kimono here, here & here, Similar cami, Old Navy Jeans, Sam Edelman pumps, Clare V bag

I love kimonos as an alternative to a cardigan or jacket when the weather warms up. I'm a pretty modest dresser, so having a light layer is a great way to feel a bit covered while not overheating. But let's be honest, kimonos are often reserved for casual weekend looks. I wore a couple last Summer over bathing suits by the pool or with denim shorts at outdoor music festivals. I never thought about dressing up a kimono for evening until I saw my best friend wearing them at different nighttime events.  I think the key is to keep the kimono the centerpiece of your outfit. Floral versions are my personal favorite, but some in fabrics such as lace also feel dressier for night. You can wear them with denim and classic pumps as I've done here, or you can wear one over a fitted dress and some metallic sandals. In fact, I saw a woman wearing her kimono over a black tank dress this weekend and she looked so pulled-together. The contrast of flowy and fitted is a formula to keep in mind with this trend. It's all about the mix.

I hope you ladies had a wonderful Easter! I'll be back tomorrow with some April updates so stay tuned.

Continue the post