Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Designer Indulgences & Drugstore Deals


First off - What do you think of our chic new blog design?? I hope you love it as much as me :)
Tonight I'm moving away from clothing, and am writing my very first beauty post..here goes!

A few months back I took a trip to Boston to visit one of my dearest friends (see below!) and while we were there (ladies, brace yourselves) I was introduced to the wonders of  Sephora. I know, I know, have I been living under a ROCK?! No no, just South Carolina.  So, I've never lived (until recently) in a city that has this wondrous store that manages to combine just about all of my favorite department store brands into one glorious square block. I bought a few new items that I've never tried before and found some fantastic new things to add to my makeup bag.

While I absolutely LOVE the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer foundation that I purchased, and my translucent NARS powder, I have to let you ladies in on a secret....(drumrollllll) I think some of my over the counter items work just as well! [gasp!] While I'm the first to say that you get what you pay for, here are a few inexpensive items that I have used, that I think truly hold their own against their top dollar competitors. First I'll start off my indulgences, then give you some great alternatives.


The Department Store Indulgences...

Look for less - Designer 1. NARS Translucent Powder - 

I love to use this to 'set' my face. It adds some light reflection and keeps your nose from shining. In South Florida, this is a must. I never get that winter weather that dries my skin out...instead, I'm just sweating.

2. Chanel Blush - Rose Bronze.


 I adore this color, and I think if you are an olive complected person like me, you might too! One lesson I have learned with blush is that the brighter, the better. You can always use less if its too bright for you. The point of it is to stand out a little - so avoid those bland beiges!


3. Dior Skinflash - 

The BEST part about this concealer is the brush tip. Its quick and easy to put on, and it just glides on perfectly smooth. The colors are designed for concealing those circles, but I feel like the coverage is not terribly great. (its a little translucent).

4. Clinique moisturizer -

 I added my 3 favorites here. Now, Clinique is what I consider to be a more moderately priced designer line. There are much higher end brands, but for me, I believe that the key to aging gracefully is to use a simple hypo-allergenic cream with minimal 'extras'. My dermatologist always recommends the simplest beauty regimes... dove soap, and lotion. While this lotion is on the moderate side, it is more expensive that what you find at most drugstores. The moisture surge is terrific for those of us who have oily skin because its light and oil free - but gives your skin what it needs.  The Dramatically Different Moisturizer comes in 2 varieties - regular and oil free. Again, I'm oil free all the way.  Finally we have the superdefense. I don't use this often - its very thick. Its a great night cream and I imagine if I lived in a climate with cold drying weather, I would use it every night. However, down here, it would break me out!

5. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer - 

This is a great foundation for those of you who do not need a ton of coverage, and still want that extra moisture. It goes on beautifully, and matches my skin perfectly - no lines here!

6. Clinique High Lengths Mascara - I know. The brush is weird. And creepy. It took all that was in me to convince my friend to buy it. It will make you a believer. I'm not kidding.

7. Clinique Eye Makeup Remover - There's a reason this is in almost EVERY free gift they have. #obsessed




The Drugstore Deals...

Ok, so you just bought an amazing dress. And shoes to match. And a handbag. And a backup dress just in case. So now here you are. At Walgreen's. Looking for a cheap way out to cover that zit....We've all been there. Whether you're in a pinch because you forgot your makeup bag, or just to lazy to truck it out to the mall to get a new powder every woman has at some point given in and just gotten the cheap stuff. Well, ladies, good news. Its not all crap. Here are my favorite finds from your own neighborhood drugstore!

Almay - I clearly am a huge fan of this brand.


Makeup Picks - Drugstore deals

1. Smart Shade Smart Balance Pressed Powder.

 I'll not lie to you - I dont know how it works, and I have no idea what's in it, but it does the same basic things that the NARS powder does BUT - it adds color. It functions like my expensive NARS powder AND a regular colored press powder. I get my shimmer, my color, and great coverage in one. Its a miracle, really.

2. Almay Concealer -

 As I've said about 10 times already - I'm olive complected, and hence, oily. So whats great about Almay's Clear Complexion Concealer is that it actually has blemish healing ingredients in it. The salicyclic acid in it has reduced the appearance of many of my pimples, and its a great feeling that at least one of your layers of makeup is helping your skin clear up! This concealer is more on the opaque side, so it provides a lot more coverage. I also added in another concealer that features the brush tip - much like the Dior Skinflash. I've used this before and also love it.

3. Almay Foundation - 

In a bind I've used Almay's foundation (several kinds) and I must admit, its hard to tell a difference from clinique! I find it to be better than the other brands because it is hypo-allergenic.

4. Neutrogena Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover - 

This product truly gives the competition a run for its money. At a fraction of the price, it is JUST like the Clinique variety. I've tried other cheaper eye makeup removers from the drug store but none work as well as this!

5. Oil of Olay Moisturizer - 

This classic lotion has been around for ages - and with good reason. It is a little on the thicker side, so I like to use it as a night cream.

6. Oil Free Moisturizer by Neutrogena - 

As opposed to the Olay, this lotion is light and it does not clog your pores. Plus, it has an SPF!

7. Clinique Blush - 

ok ok so it's not drugstore. BUT, that Chanel blush is almost $50 - so to me, this $24 Clinique blush feels like a drugstore deal. (Sorry guys...I haven't found a drugstore blush I love --- do you have a suggestion???)

8. L'Oreal Paris Double Extend Mascara -

 Okay girls, this is the real deal.  Primers are the way to go for us short lashed girls. Within seconds, we actually have a lashes that are visible. I've used a Dior primer before - but this works just as well, if not better!

At the end of the day, I'm a sucker for Chanel, Dior, and NARS. But, since we can't have it all, buy that one indulgence, and then fill in with these drugstore steals. 

XoXo
M


You Can Find Today's Featured Items at the sites listed below!


Clinique beauty product
neimanmarcus.com


Nars cosmetic
sephora.com

Chanel blush
nordstrom.com

Clinique makeup
nordstrom.com

Clinique mascara
$28 - debenhams.com

Christian Dior makeup
sephora.com

Laura Mercier face makeup
sephora.com



Face moisturizer
ulta.com



Loose face powder
target.com


Almay cosmetic
$18 - fashionaddict.com.au


Blender brush
target.com



Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Senate Elections in South Carolina

We have a huge election coming up in SC coming up in the next months and its imperative that we do our part to participate in the political process! I interned for Lindsey Graham in the Capitol and It was truly an honor to work for him.  Please consider donation to the Graham campaign, and keep one of the few 'common sense' republicans in the Senate. Too many politcians these days are so focused on toeing the party line, while Lindsey is able to see past party rhetoric to pursue the option that makes the most sense for the country.  See, Senators and Representatives are supposed to represent the views of their state while developing policy for the nation.  Their role never has been to stalemate Congress, and never to prevent progress. Stand with me, and support Lindsey Graham.
If you don't want to wait in lines, please see the information below for how to get your absentee ballot!
LindseyGraham.com


It's our civic duty to vote, but nobody enjoys long lines, hours of waiting or bad weather on Election Day.

But did you know many South Carolinians can enjoy the convenience of voting from home with an absentee ballot?

And that includes any voter over the age of 65.

Many others may also qualify to vote absentee - such as members of the Armed Services or those who will not be in their county on Election Day due to vacation or work obligations.

You can request your absentee ballot today by simply visiting AbsenteeSC.com.

Make your voice heard TODAY by voting absentee for Senator Lindsey Graham in theJune 10th Republican Primary! 

Friday, April 25, 2014

Flirty Florals and Sexy Stripes


Happy Friday!

In recent memory, I have not  been a big fan of floral prints (well, not since 1995) but they are back with a vengeance and I must say, I've jumped back on the bandwagon! Florals are a great way to add a feminine touch to your outfit, and if you're feeling bold, mix it with some stripes!  The trick to mixing these two patterns is to watch the sizing of the patterns. Try to be sure that you match the scale of stripe to the scale of the floral print.  Putting a large/wide stripe skirt with a smaller print floral pattern can look too busy, or mismatched. The best part about mixing these items is that there are no hard and fast rules - its all about what you think looks good. Here are some great pieces you may want to consider adding to your closet this spring!


ASTR Drape Back Floral Top - $46 at Nordstrom

My favorite part of this top is the drape on the back.  This top would look great with a navy striped skirt - or you can subdue it like the model with some crisp white pants!



This printed top has a tropical feel, and in some styles I think it could look matronly.  But I think in this wrap top, it looks modern, young, and chic. 





These cropped pants have a light and comfy feel, and pair well with a gauzy top and sandals. This model is wearing them with flats, but I would pair it with a wedge sandal and a slimmer fitting top.  



Boat Neck Printed Dress 99.90 at Zara

Too bad Easter is past, because this would be the perfect dress to wear for Easter Sunday! I'm obsessed with this dress. The boat neck is super chic, and the pattern is to die for.



Striped Dress with Wide Straps $79.90 at Zara

I love that this dress has varying stripe directions and a belted waist.





Striped Dress $79.90 at Zara

Anyone who knows me, knows how I feel about a tent dress. This is my go to style on weekends and trips - it fits any occasion and body type. (and those days you feel kinda fat...)

Layered Print Dress $79.90 at Zara

This abstract floral patterned dress is broken up with loose flowing layers.



 Striped Dress - Boat Neck $79.90 at Zara

Boat neck. Shift. Stripes. Need I say more? I can wear this to work, to church, to lunch with the girls...it's the perfect go-to!



Ark & Co Stripe Maxi Dress with Cut out back $89.00 at Piperlime

My favorite part of this dress, are the cut outs! I am absolutely obsessed this trend - and I love that it adds a little sex appeal with out revealing too much! 


Not gonna lie, this might be my #1 floral pick of the season. Courtney Kerr debuted these gorgeous pants on her blog last week, and I'm still dying over them. Hurry up though, they are selling out fast :) 


Until Later...

xoxo
M


Monday, April 21, 2014

The Perfect Getaway

Hey Girlies...

I'm trying my hardest not to overshop these days, unless I'm purchasing 'need' items. Since I have 30th Birthday trip planned with all of my College besties, I've been obsessed with building the perfect resort ensembles to take me from the pool, to an evening out!

Here are a few items I found that I think would be some perfect options for my girls' trip!

1. The Perfect beach hat - 

This little number from Michael Stars is a cool $35 and is the solution to looking cute AND keeping the sun off of your face! I've always been a fan of the floppy hats, but sometimes its nice

2. The Perfect Bikini - 

My new favorite type of bikini is the barely there brazillian! I was recently introduced to a designer out of Miami, but made in Brazil - Luli Fama. Now, for those of you who are not quite ready to bare it all, you can buy the normal cut bottom. But, if you're going to go all out (and spend THAT much time at the gym each week) why not just commit and go full brazillian?! I prefer the string triangle top and rouched brazillian bottom, but there are lots of styles for you to pick your favorites!

You can buy this on several different sites including Nordstrom, and Amazon.com.

Here are my favorite patterns:




3. The Perfect Poolside Shoe - 

Lets be honest, we all have those perfect 3 inch wedges, or the darling leather gladiator sandal that we want to sport poolside at that high end resort or hotel. Those pools are regular fashion runways. I don't know about you, but the last thing I want to do, is ruin my favorite pair of shoes with sunscreen, cholorine or water.  That's why I suggest getting an updated version of the jelly sandal. (yes yes, I know what you're thinking...Old Navy circa 1995) BUT, get this - some of your favorite designers like Ferragamo (see yesterday's post) and Jack Rogers are now making Jelly sandals! Here is my favorite style - The Georgica.

Jack Rogers Georgica Jelly Sandal - $68 at Zappos.com These come in several fun color, and with a price you can't beat, you can get a pair to match all your favorite bikinis!



4. The Perfect Pair of Shades

I got Gayla Kate Spade sunglasses for Christmas and I must admit, I have NEVER been more in love with a pair of sunnies. I have a few more shapes I want to add to my collection that I've included here, as well as some other classics I adore!

Kate Spade Della Cat Eye Sunglasses  - I adore this shape, and they come in so many great colors and prints. I tend to always go for the tortoise shell, but this summer I really want to branch out and get some fun colored glasses!




Of course, there is the ever classic Ray-Ban Aviator (found here) - I'm sure you all know the look :)

6. The Perfect Maxi Dress


This is an absolute must. Sure, I love a mini skirt, and a skin baring sun dress, but a maxi dress is perfect way to look chic, while extremely comfy. To me, wearing a maxi dress, is like pjs. I die. (in the words of Rachel Zoe.)

Flying Tomato Havana Maxi Dress - $98 at Piperlime



I'm going to stop here - although anyone who knows me, knows that I am the quintessential over packer and would pack about 100 more "must have items" :) Maybe I'll do another post closer to the trip...when I've found more "gotta have its".

xoxo,
M


Sunday, April 20, 2014

Affordable Spring Sandals


This week I had a friend ask me where she could find some fun, functional, and yet affordable sandals.  I think it safe to say that most girls want to look as chic as possible, for as cheaply and comfortably as possible.This season there are some great trends (read: gladiators, everywhere) but, lets be honest, they do not work for all of us. My friend, and me, both are lovers of flat shoes - which I think takes this search to a whole new level. It's easy to walk into any store and find a fantastic 3 inch heeled shoe, but finding a cute flat shoe? Not so much.  I will occasionally indulge in a heel, but after an ankle injury last year (and marrying a shorter guy) I've started trading in the stilettos for some flats.   Here are my picks - enjoy!




Zappos - Sam Edelman Gigi  - $80 from Zappos

The Gigi is one of my favorite styles from Sam Edelman. I have them in a plain black - but as you see below, they have tons of super fun color combos. Check out the link above to find the style shoe that fits your personality, and your wardrobe best!

Sam Edelman Glenna - $44 on 6pm.com

This shoe is much like the Gigi, but it has a some cool stone embellishments on the main strap.  They come in 3 cool colors, and add a bit of a Coachella Vibe to your look!








Salvatore Ferragamo Barbados - $195 at Zappos

OK OK, so these aren't exactly affordable. They are Ferragamo. BUT, if you were ever going to buy Ferragamos, these are THE most affordable. At $195, I think you can make the splurge, have a fun summer shoe, and tout the fact that you are, in fact, wearing Ferragamos. They are jelly - so the fit could be different - but living in South Florida, I see these as the perfect shoe for that flash afternoon thunderstorm (no running barefoot through the parking lot for me!)




Isola Adie  - $79.95 at Zappos

I am not as familiar with this brand of shoe, but when I saw it, I thought it was a great looking shoe, for a reasonable price.  It embodies a few of my favorite things, gold hardware, zippers, and studs. So first off, I love the gold toe detail, I think it just takes this sandal up a notch and makes it more expensive looking. It also mimics the stud trend that Valentino went to town with this past fall (Is anyone else devastated that those shoes required the sale of a major organ to afford??? Totally devastated.)  Finally, I love the zipper. Let's face it, I'm lazy. Buckles take forever, and most of the time you're already dressed, and who wants to be bending over or sitting on the floor to put on shoes? Zippers all the way.





Kenneth Cole Reaction Snipity Snap - $49 at Zappos

This shoe comes in several colors - and honestly I couldn't decide which one I liked the most! The Gold on Orange color scheme on this shoe I think is great for summer, and will go with alot of color palates - but you go with what works best for you!







DV by Dolce Vita Archer - $27-29 on 6pm.com

I'm a huge fan of DV by Dolce Vita, and with a price like this - these shoes will not last for long! I love them in the gold and black. I think the tipped toe and the gold bar are perfect accents, and the dainty lines will make your foot look elongated and thin.











DV by Dolce Vita Aileen - $27 at 6pm.com

Here is another DV by Dolce Vita sandal with a rounded leather strap and of course, gold detailing (are you sensing a trend here?).





Sperry Top Sider Everton $24.99 at 6pm.com

Ok, so I know this shoe is not for everyone - but it has a tassel. And, I can't resist a tassel.  Sperry makes a great shoe, and I love the snake skin/tassel combo. I think this would be a very comfy shoe, and it would go with anything!





Steve Madden Bant - $38.97 at 6pm.com

This shoe has a different gold hardware - the chain. I have these sandals in brown without the back strap and I wear them to death. Its a great shoe that is really elevated by the chain, and for that price, how can you beat it?





Boutique 9 7Palanee3 - $16.50 on 6pm.com

So, these shoes are practically free. I am OBSESSED with neon anything - and especially love it when paired with a neutral like this tan. This comes in several colors - check it out and pick out your fave! (I also added the leopard print version as well...)




Corso Como friendship - $35.55 on 6pm.com

This shoe plays off of the hurachi trend a little without going too far.  I love Corso Como because their soles are always very comfy and padded.





Steve Madden P-Trivol - $39.99 at 6pm.com

I don't know about you, but when i was a kid, my favorite shoes were my white hurachis! I'm pumped this trend is coming back and while these aren't exactly like the ones I had, they are so cute!





Steve Madden Reader Gold Snake color $39.99 at 6pm.com

No need to rehash all the great features on this shoe - but it incorporates several elements that we've seen in the shoes above -- but this shoe takes it to the next level with the gold plates on the heel. Do you love it? I do!





DV by Dolce Vita Ayden  $31.99 at 6pm.com

This shoe is very similar to Aileen but it doesn't have the knot by the toe. It also allows you to pick out contrasting colors as well. So, if you love the Aileen, you might love these too!









Vince Camuto Magda (petal rose gold) - $39.99 at 6pm.com

Olivia Palermo loves perforated leather, and so do I! This shoe has a cute bow on the front, a fun sparkly strap, and yet is a neutral sandal.






That's all for now, until next week!
xoxo
M



 
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