27 August 2014

New Haul video is live on my channel! I am proud of myself for sticking to my uploading schedule. My goal is to upload at least 2 times a week and so far so good! I have big dreams for my channel/blog and I plan to keep brainstorming and keep pursuing something I've always loved to do- makeup!

I have been collecting some new pieces for my wardrobe. I really want to zone in on my personal style. I see so many fashion bloggers and am always in awe of how beautiful their outfits are coordinated/styled. I just have to be more mommy conscious and budget friendly but I plan on making it work!


Check out some of the things I have been shopping for






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26 August 2014

Warm Rose Gold


I have always lusted over the color rose gold. There is just something about it that makes me fall in love. I bought almost half of the RiRi Hearts MAC Collection simply because of the rose gold packaging #sorrynotsorry. I tried to capture the rosiness of this look to the best of my ability. Working my way up to bigger and better tech toys, one step at a time!

I used the Smashbox Studio Pop Ultimate Palette for this look. This was from their Holiday 2012 Collection. My palette collection is growing which is great because 1) it is an awesome deal to get so many eyeshadows for one price, and 2) I can spend that money on other beauty products like lipsticks!





Products Used

EYES
Smashbox Primer
MAC Soft Brown e/s
Smashbox e/s- Crisp and Fizz
Smashbox e/s- Roast
Estee Lauder Jumbo Kajal Pencil
ELF Liquid Liner
Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme
Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer in Light Medium
Estee Lauder Idealist Illuminator in Light Medium

FACE
Estee Lauder Idealist Even Skintone Illuminating Serum
Estee Lauder Daywear
MAC Studio Fix Liquid NC30
Mac Studio Fix Powder NC30
Wet n Wild Bronzer
Smashbox Blush- Warm Apricot
MAC Soft and Gentle

LIPS
MAC Midi-Mauve
MAC Casual Colour in Lazy Sunday






Favorite Moisturizers for the Fall

   Fall is almost here which means warm sweaters, cold weather and dry skin-as if my skin was not already [oddly] dry enough this summer. Believe it or not ladies, your skin changes with age. Whether it changes for better or for worse depends on how well you treat it now. I myself have been taking preventive measures since I turned 21, so it is never too early to start!

   These moisturizers will work well if you have dry to combination skin. By this I mean 90% of your face feels dry after you wash it, your makeup gets rough and patchy after a few hours and you develop some oiliness [in the t-zone] throughout the day.




1. Estee Lauder Daywear Advanced Multi-Protection Creme with SPF 15


This moisturizer comes formulated for dry and oily skin. The SPF is going to protect your skin from the sun, even under your makeup. This cucumber filled moisturizer will make your skin feel fresher and look smoother. It helps reduce signs of premature aging, dry lines and dullness in the skin.










2. Origins VitaZing SPF 15 Energy-Boosting Moisturizer



I have raved about this moisturizer before. It is filled with little beads that burst on contact with your skin, creating the perfect color match for your face. It is a very subtle hint of color that will give you a radiant glow to your face. Vitazing is made with Mangosteen which is rich in anti-oxidants which will protect your skin along with the SPF.

3. Olay Fresh Effects



This moisturizing gel is lightweight and will leave your skin feeling supple and soft. Give your skin a healthy post-workout glow without the sweat. This oil-free formula won't clog your pores and will hydrate your skin instantly.



4.  Dermisa Vitamin E Cream




  Dermisa is a family favorite. Literally every woman in my family has used this product- it might be a Latina thing? This moisturizer is super rich, very luxurious and highly underrated. If you are lucky, you may find some stocked at a Walgreens near you, otherwise you have to purchase this creme online. This creamy moisturizer is used at night because it is extremely dense and has no SPF. Apply a thin layer all over your face and wake up with glowing, fresh, slept like a baby skin.

21 August 2014

Pop of Blue

I have been seeing so much of this color going into the Fall season! All over Youtube and in fashion magazines. I created this dramatic, blue makeup look featuring MAC's Zingy eyeshadow. It is extremely pigmented and extremely blue. I had fun with this being that I do not usually wear blue anything since I have brown eyes. Overall such a gorgeous color!


19 August 2014

Thrifted to Fit

Late post on what I wore to work a yard sale on Saturday! I decided to go with an outfit that was completely thrifted. I have been hitting the thrift stores at least once a week and have been finding some amazing bargains. I have found silk shirts and linen pants for less than $2!

These shorts were actually a pair of Calvin Klein jeans that I found for $1and I turned them into shorts using this tutorial. A lot of the shoes I own are from boutiques in Puerto Rico. I love stocking up on summer wedges when I am there because they have such unique styles to choose from.

Re-purposing thrifted clothes/furniture/housewares is definitely a fun year-round project you can do.


OUTFIT DETAILS:

16 August 2014

Back-to-School Series: Yummy, Healthy Breakfast

This school year, avoid falling into the go-to sugary breakfast for most- pop tarts, cereal and milk, and breakfast bars. Your body has been fasting for more than 6 hours, because you don't eat while you sleep. Breakfast is a time to fuel and rev up your engines for the rest of the day; or at least until lunch!

It is so easy to skip breakfast when you are in a rush, or simply because you don't think you are hungry at that hour. But in reality your body is starving, it may not feel like it but it is. Your body will not automatically begin to eat up all of the fat it has stored because it is concerned with conserving it for energy.

Kickstart your day with a cup of water and lemon. This will help get fluids running through your body, preparing it to take in what is needed and throw out what is not easily. With these easy and healthy breakfast options, you will be sure to start your day off just right.


1. Smoothies



These are probably the fastest way to get a ton of nutrients from fruits and vegetables at once. Juicing is another option but I believe there are lots of micronutrients in the skin and inside the entire fruit/vegetable. There are thousands of smoothie recipes and what you will love about these is that you can alter them to your taste. There is no wrong smoothie. I like to use 3 different fruits and 2 different vegetables and blend with water and ice. One example includes: a whole banana, 1 cup of blueberries, 4 strawberries, a handful of spinach, handful of broccoli and almond milk.

You should not have to sweeten it because all of the naturally sweet fruits are full of it. Start with just fruits in your smoothie until you are ready to incorporate veggies. The more vegetables you add, the more you can taste them. It may look extremely green, but this is a perfect way to get your body started for the day.


2. Jar Parfaits



Another easy and fast breakfast option are the breakfast jar parfaits. These are fast only if you remember to make them the night before. You will use overnight oats which are oats that have "cooked" overnight by soaking in water or [almond] milk. You can create these however you like: with stevia, cinnamon, honey, etc.
You begin by filling the bottom of your jar with yogurt then make your own creation! Add strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, bananas, granola, peanut butter and so much more. The key to a healthy parfait is to read your labels!! Be sure your yogurt and other add-ins are low in sugar! Let the fruits be your natural sweeteners to help keep this meal as clean as possible.


3. Homemade Breakfast Bars



Lastly these are a much healthier alternative to the pre-packaged, processed breakfast bars sitting in your pantry. Why? Because you know how to pronounce every single ingredient you are using. Granola bars are easy to make and perfect for your on-the-go, in-a-rush mornings.
What you need: rolled oats (steel cut is better), raw honey, variety of nuts, variety of dried fruit, flaxseeds, peanut butter and vanilla.
When I first tried these I did not melt my honey and peanut butter together. It would have made the mixing a lot easier. You want to add the oats, nuts,fruits and flaxseeds (optional) into one big bowl. I personally love walnuts, almonds, and cashews with raisins. Next melt a few tablespoons of the raw honey and the peanut butter. You can add some vanilla extract for a little more flavor. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix. The stickiness of the honey will help all the ingredients stick together. Flatten your oat mix in a cooking pan to whatever thickness you like. Set them in the fridge overnight or until the pb and honey become firm. Take them out, cut them into bars and enjoy!



The best thing about these recipes is that they are not only easy to make but they are tailored to your taste! You can customize and create so many possibilities that you will never have to be bored with your breakfast.

13 August 2014

#NoMoreTangles VoxBox

This month I was able to review the No More Tangles hair care line for babies from Johnson's Baby. At first I will admit I was a little weary about the product. I have used the Leave-In Conditioner before, when my son was less than a year old, and all I could remember was how much I disliked the smell. Not that it wasn't pleasant, but for an infants hair it was much too strong.

Fast forward to now, I have been using the Shampoo & Conditioner, the Leave-In Conditioner, and the Detangling Spray. My son has extremely thick and curly (bi-racial) hair. It has been a constant battle for me to find something that not only hydrates his curls, but keep them from getting matted and tangled.

The Shampoo & Conditioner I received is for thin/fine hair. I was a bit hesitant to use it for that reason. Essentially the product has less oils in it so that way it will not weigh your baby's hair down. I was concerned that it would dry out his curls, but to my surprise it didn't. The shampoo lathered nicely and Julian was tear-free when I rinsed his head.

Next up was the Leave-In Conditioner. I applied a quarter size to his hair- maybe more because his hair is super curly. I did notice that the fragrance in the product was a lot less strong than before. This really made finger combing his hair a breeze. Usually his curls become even more knotted when they are wet, but the conditioner smoothed them out and made them easy to separate.

To finish it off, I spray the Detangling Spray on his curls. I liked how easy it is to use and spray evenly throughout his head. I also liked that it left his curls separated and shiny.

The only concern I have with this product is that it may not provide enough moisture to hold the curls long enough throughout the day. BUT being that this IS  product for tangles, I was thoroughly impressed by how well my boy sat through all of this. Usually he fights me off, yelling and screaming, crying and running away. I loved that he enjoyed being pampered and his curls were detangled with no tears!


You can find the Johnson's Baby No More Tangles line and many more at your nearest Target.















disclaimer: these products were sent to me complimentary of Influenster and Johnson's Baby for testing purposes

12 August 2014

Back-to-School Series: 3 Cute and Simple Hairstyles

One of the things I wish I made more use of in school were hair accessories. Yet another quick and super simple way to add some personality to your entire look. Most of the time you think hairstyles? I don't have time for that, I barely roll out of bed at the sound of my alarm. I want to share with you the 3 secret B's to quick, easy and cute hair when you are rushing out the door Monday mornings.

1. Braids




This is something you can do literally as you are walking to class. Braids take no time at all and you can style them so many ways. Create a braided head band or combine two different style braids, like the french braid and the fishtail braid, for a unique turnout. Take notes from Selena's approach to keeping it comfy and effortless.



2. Bands

Headbands are another super fast way to add some flare to your do. Curly hair, straight hair, or braided hair- throw a colorful patterned headband as your statement piece and you are ready to go.



3. Bows 


                        



Is it possible to make "On Tuesday we wear bows" a thing? Am I being too Gretchen on this because if I am not I am totally trade marking it. I have been so obsessed with bows this month and I cannot wait to get my hands on some more. Just like headbands, you can pair this with any hairstyle. Depending on the patterns and color you can make it super cutesy or very edgy.










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Beauty This, Fashion That


11 August 2014

Back-to-School Series: Beauty

This week I will be hosting a Back-to-School Series on the blog. Each day you can check back for new posts on a different Back-to-School topic. Beauty, hair, fashion, backpack essentials and more- we got you covered! Monday kickstarts the series with Back-to-School Beauty Essentials. ]


Skincare

Clinique 3-Step System

Let's start off with skin care because great skin is the basis for any beauty enthusiast. I have always loved Clinique's 3-Step System. All together you receive a face wash, toner, and moisturizer for one price. Clinique's brand is designed fragrance free and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin. I have used the 3-Step System before and believe it is an amazing starter set for those of you looking for a quality cleansing system. Matched to your specific skin type, you can purchase this set at a great price from your nearest Clinique counter. Oftentimes they are doing a free gift with purchase so you definitely get your moneys worth!







Clinique also launched their own Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush this August. It is their version of the Clarisonic at a much more affordable price. The Purifying Cleansing Brush is waterproof, rechargeable and comes with one brush head for all skin types. Priced at just $89.50, you can use this in conjunction with the 3-Step System or the face wash you currently use. 









Makeup 

1. Foundation and Concealer

                       


L'Oreal True Match Foundation is one of my favorite drugstore finds of all time. It is light-weight, blends easily and gives natural looking coverage.
Instant Age Rewin Concealer by Maybelline is another drugstore favorite. Just a little under the eyes will automatically brighten that area up, making you look more awake. Use some on the high points of you face- forehead, bridge of your nose, cupids bow, chin, and tops of your cheek bones- to create a natural highlight.


2. Bronzers and Blush

Adding some color to your face is like breathing life into you in the morning. Avoid looking washed out with a little bronzer and blush. E.L.F. makes a really awesome Blush/Bronzer Duo for just $3! The different color combinations are natural looking and suitable for every skin color. Find them at your nearest Target!
I have always been obsessed with the Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips($10). Similar in idea to Bobbi Brown's Shimmer Bricks ($44) at a more affordable price, these compacts act as bronzers, highlights and eyeshadows! Choose from peach, pink, or bronze tones to give your skin a healthy, natural glow.


3. Eyes

 Over the years I have come to believe that one great  eye palette will serve all your needs. Of course I still collect hundreds of single eyeshadows, but a basic eye palette is essential. Urban Decay's Naked Basics palette is a beautiful selection of neutral colors for every day wear.




I will always swear by my E.L.F. Precision Liquid Liner because it is exactly that- precise! The color is jet black, lasts all day, and the brush tip is fine and thing making it perfect for drawing winged eyeliner. 



Covergirl's Bombshell Volumizing Mascara ($9) is a double ended mascara. One side will give you length and the other will give you immense volume. Another great mascara to try is Bobbi Brown's Smokey Eye Mascara ($28). It is perfect for every day lashes with a little hint of drama. 








4. Lips

The Revlon Lip Butters ($8) are rich and creamy to the touch. The color melts onto your lips as you apply it, leaving them silky smooth, glossy and colorful. 
NYX Butter Glosses are my favorite drugstore lip products of all time. The color pay off is amazing and the price makes it that much better. For just $4.99 you get to choose from an amazing selection of colors that are easy to apply, very pigmented and extremely creamy. I love both of these formulas because they will give your lips gorgeous color while keeping them soft and hydrated.



5. Finishing Touches



It seems like I have included a lot of E.L.F., but that is just because some of their products have some great quality to them at such an affordable price. Be sure to have your makeup last all day by using a setting spray. E.L.F.'s Studio Mist and Set is only $3 and I have seen great reviews on it. Lastly, complete your look with some color to your nails. Wet n Wild's MegaLast Nail Colors come in a huge selection of colors for only $1.99. What I love about these polishes is the applicator brush. It is flat and wide with a rounded tip, making it easier to cover your entire nail. 








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Beauty This, Fashion That






Tomorrow's Topic: Hair


04 August 2014

Day Glam Makeup

I have been feeling extremely glamorous the past couple of days and have been rocking this look!
Perfect day glam that I am so obsessed with- lashes, smokey bright eyes, and gorgeous highlight.

Click on the picture to watch my latest video!


01 August 2014

Tips to Control and Prevent Acne

Now that I will be turning 25 [soon!], I have been focusing more on my skin care rather than on the amount of makeup I can load onto my face. I'm exaggerating of course. Your skin is delicate and should be shown T.L.C. daily. Acne breakouts are something I still deal with every now and then, but I am aiming to clear my face of breakouts for good. Here are a few of my tips that have helped me control and prevent serious breakouts.


GRWM

Have you seen my latest video? It was a night out inspired look but plans changed and I decided to rock it to work instead! A bit dramatic but there are no rules working in the beauty industry, right?! Love a heavy day glam :) Have a great weekend everyone <3








Products Used:
Turnaround Concentrate by Clinique

EYES:
Mac Paintpot Soft Ochre
Naked 2 Palette- Tease
Mac Soft Brown 
Mac Shroom
Naked 2- Bootycall
Naked 2- Snakebite 
Mac Carbon
ELF Liquid Liner
Estee Lauder Kajal Jumbo Pencil
Clinique Lash Builder Primer
Clinique Lash Power Feathering Mascara

BROWS:
Matte Dark Brown Shadow

FACE:
Mac Studio Stick Foundation Nc37
Mac Studio Fix Liquid Nc30
Revlon Colorstay Aqua Powder Medium
Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer Light/Medium
Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer
Mac Cheek and Cheerful (NOT equilibrium sorry!!)
Estee Lauder Idealist Illuminator


LIPS:
Mac Semi-Annual
Mac Boybait