Build Your Own Birchbox at Walgreens

Subscription boxes have become increasingly popular over the last few years.  It seems like there is a subscription box for almost any kind of hobby, niche and lifestyle.  There are boxes specifically for pet owners, at-home chefs, kids, beauty lovers, you name it there is probably a box out there for you to order.  It’s a great concept, you fill out a brief questionnaire and then a curated box of items arrive at your door month after month. You are introduced to new products, foods etc. without ever having leave your home.

Now, to be completely honest I have a love-hate relationship with subscription boxes.  I love trying new products and it’s fun to receive packages in the mail, especially when its  surprise not fully knowing what each package will contain!  Since I predominantly talk about beauty products, it will probably come as no surprise that the few boxes I have subscribed to in the past have been beauty boxes, specifically Ipsy, Birchbox and Sephora Play.

The “Ulta”mate dupe for Tarte Shape Tape

Since its launch over three years ago Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer has become a cult favorite in the beauty community and a personal favorite of my own.  It’s a great full coverage formula that is easy to blend (but be warned, a little goes a long way!).  I’ve tried  a lot (and I mean a lot) of other concealers but always have a back-up of Shape Tape on stand by-until now!  While I have no problem spending  money on products that I absolutely love, I’m always down to find a more affordable option and I think it’s safe to say I’ve finally found it!

Sephora Beauty Insider Sale

The Sephora Beauty Insider Appreciation Event (aka sale) is now in full swing and I thought I would share my personal top picks. But first, let’s go over the details. The sale is for Beauty Insider members of all levels. If you aren’t a member yet, it’s as easy as signing up online or in store and then shopping your heart out! The program has three tiers:

Beauty Insider- beauty insiders receive 1 point for every dollar spent on in-store and online purchases to redeem for rewards (sample sized products, services and other goods). You also receive a free birthday gift, and access to seasonal savings throughout the year (like the current sale). Once you spend $350 in one year, you move up to the VIB level.

VIB– VIB members earn 1.25 points on every dollar spent on purchases, as well as all the benefits of the beauty insider tier. At this level you have the option to receive your complimentary birthday gift or 250 points, as well as all benefits as a Beauty Insider

Rouge– The Rouge tier is for members who spend $1000 or more in a year and therefore receive the most amount of benefits and rewards. These include earning 1.5 points per dollar, the option for a birthday gift or 250 points, free two-day flash shipping, and early access to products and events.

Rouge members will be able to shop the sale from August 24-September 3 and receive 20% off with the code YESROUGE. On August 30th the sale opens to VIB and Beauty Insider members. VIBs receive 15% off with code YESVIB, while Beauty Insiders use the code YESINSIDER for 10% off.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff! I tend to approach major sales like this one of two ways-the first being, I use the sale to stock up on items I already use and love. It’s a great way to save money on items I use everyday. The second way to approach the sale is what I like to call the “treat yo self ” route. This doesn’t mean I spend a ridiculous amount of money on random products, but rather using the sale as an opportunity to purchase an item or two I’ve been eyeing but the price point has held me back.

This year I’ve chosen to stock up on a few items I consider staples in my collection, like foundation. My go to for years has been Estée Lauder Double Wear (as you can see my bottle is well-loved!). I have also been enjoying the light version over the warmer months. No matter how many other foundations I try, Double Wear outperforms other formulas. It lasts an average of 12-14 hours for me and I always get compliments when I wear it out in public!

I use concealer on a daily basis to cover the dark circles under my eyes, so its a no brainer to stock up on my favorite concealer-NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer. I use a shade lighter to brighten but it would also work as a great spot concealer if you buy your normal shade.

Another item I wear on a daily basis is the Anastasia of Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade. I personally prefer the pomade over pencils, because it’s long-wearing and does not smudge or fade throughout the day. Additionally this product will last you months upon months before you need to repurchase. Hint: If your pomade starts to dry out, add the tiniest drop of oil and gently mix and just like that it’s good as new!

If I’m talking about items I use everyday I can’t leave out this deodorant by Donna Karan. It is one of the best deodorants I’ve used. It lasts all day, smells great and keeps my underarms dry even in the hottest temps. I was quite surprised the first times I tried it, as I never expected something from the fragrance department to work so well! If you prefer a more natural based deodorant try this one by LaVanilla.

If you haven’t smelled the fragrance Nirvana Black by Elizabeth and James, please do yourself a favor and give yourself a spritz next time you’re at Sephora! It is heavenly! I would describe the scent as warm with vanilla tones. It’s very sophisticated and perfect for an evening out or as an everyday scent for this coming fall and winter. I like to purchase the rollerball size to keep in my purse (not to mention it’s also much cheaper!).

And there you have it-the items that our on my personal list for the Sephora Sale. If anyone seems interested I will write a second post on the sale listing the items I would suggest splurging on or items on my own wishlist. Let me know in the comments below if this is something you would like to see. Also share what items you are purchasing from the sale. Thanks for reading and happy shopping!

Moisturizers- the key to soft, hydrated skin

Today I’d like to share with you my collection of facial moisturizers. Applying moisturizer is one of the last steps in my skincare routine, but is also one of the most crucial aspects as it replenishes and hydrates your skin after cleansing and in the long term can help combat wrinkles. I’ve shared a full skincare routine in the past, but it bears repeating so here is a short recap: first I remove my makeup (usually with a makeup remover wipe), cleanse my skin, use a serum and then lastly apply moisturizer. If I’m using a facial oil (usually in dryer months) I will add it into my moisturizer or apply afterwards as the very last step.

Now, you really only need one or two moisturizers in your skincare arsenal, however if you are a cosmetic/skincare enthusiast like myself, it’s more than likely you have several and like each one for specific reasons and occasions. That being said, let me jump in and share with you why I like each one of these products.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel– This was one of my first moisturizers by Clinique and what really made me check out several of their other products. The gel formula is perfect for regular skin types as well as combo to oily skin. It absorbs into the skin nicely and does not have a harsh fragrance. I primarily use this in my morning routine before I apply makeup, as it does not make my skin look oily and thus helps prolong the longevity of my makeup. Several stores like Ulta and Sephora sell trial sizes of this product, to test before committing to a full size bottle.

L’Occitane Reine Blanche créme immaculée brightening cream– L’Occitane products are definitely a splurge, but also have amazing ingredients and last what seems like forever. I purchased this particular cream on a bit of a whim while on vacation awhile back, however don’t regret it one bit! It was a part of a deal with the coordinating serum (what I was really there for), and so I was able to purchase both for just a few dollars more than the price of one item. Despite really being in it for the serum, I have also really enjoyed the moisturizing cream. It feels so luxurious on the skin and leaves your face very hydrated. I primarily use this at night and wake up with smooth skin!

L’Occitane Shea Butter Light Comforting Cream– This is the other L’Occitane Cream I own and it is actually quite different from the previously mentioned moisturizer. As the name suggests it is a lighter formula and contains 5% shea butter. I love shea butter because it smells amazing and is also great for sensitive skin. Because of the lighter texture I can use this cream during the day or at night mixed with a bit of facial oil. If you have drier skin you may prefer the ultra rich version of this formula that contains 25% shea butter. I would suggest these products to anyone who wants a mid-range priced moisturizer or wants to try the brand without breaking the bank. The light formula costs $28 and the ultra rich formula rings in just a few dollars more at $34. To put this in perspective, thats the same price as the Olay Whip moisturizers that have been getting a lot of ad time.

Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly– When Clinique recently released the newest moisturizer from their Dramatically Different line I couldn’t wait to try it. Since I already own several moisturizers, I opted to buy a trial size version for a small fraction of the cost of the full size bottle. Compared to the rest of the Dramatically Different line, the jelly formula is extremely lightweight and more of a water-like texture. It absorbs into the skin very quickly and feels like next to nothing on your face. I imagine this would be a great option for oily or combo skin types, however it still works well on my normal skin in the summer heat. That being said, I like to wear it during the day and I think it works great under makeup.

Fresh Rose Deep Hyrdration Face Cream– This is a sample size product I received in a beauty subscription box several months ago and have recently used up entirely. I have been packing this moisturizer on my trips out-of-town, and let me tell you, it was a total lifesaver when I was in Colorado. I wasn’t expecting my skin to get so dry and each day and night I applied this on my parched skin and it got the job done! Not to mention I’m a total sucker for anything rose. If I were to purchase this as a full size product, I would most likely stick to using in the drier months and/or in the evenings.

IT Cosmetics Secret Sauce Clinically Advanced Miraculous Anti-Aging Moisturizer– Talk about a mouthful of a name! This is another sample size product I received in a subscription box or as a reward at Sephora, I honestly can’t remember, but I do remember I was very excited when I got it. IT Cosmetics products always get a lot of hype and have some great claims. Their cosmetics contain a lot of great skincare properties and were developed with the help of plastic surgeons. The moisturizer itself is a great formula, it’s creamy and very hydrating and feels luxurious. However, I’m not exactly running out to purchase a full size version of this product. Mainly because I have a lot of similar items in my collection and they all seem comparable. If you’re a loyal IT Cosmetics fan, this would be a great product for you to add to your skincare routine.

Origins High Potency Night-A-Mins Mineral-Enriched Renewal Cream– The last product I’m going to mention is this cream from the brand Origins. I received this sample awhile ago and like most samples I never really got around to using it until very recently. Let me tell you, I didn’t know what I was missing! This formula is so unique. It’s on the thicker side and almost has an emollient like feeling. The smell is out-of-this world citrusy goodness while not being over powering once it’s worked into the skin. This is the perfect product for dry, parched skin that needs refreshing. I’ve been using it every other night before bed and love the way it makes my skin feel through the night and into the morning. When it’s time to buy a new full-size moisturizer this will be it!

I realize all the items I have shared are high(er) end price points. I haven’t used any drugstore moisturizers recently, however I always suggest brands like Cetaphil, and CeraVe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. I also mentioned earlier in this post that Olay Whips seems to be a popular new product. If you have any recommendations please leave them in the comments below. I would also be curious to hear if anyone has used any of the same products I mentioned, and their thoughts!

Thanks for Reading!

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Try-On

If you follow any style blogger you have probably been seeing post after post covering the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale across several social media outlets.  It’s a very popular sale and for good reason, there are some really good deals on great brands.  I tend to use the sale as a way to start building my wardrobe for the upcoming fall season without paying the full price.

The cool part about the promotion of such sales on social media is that it helps me get an idea about the fit and quality of an item, as well as different ways to style pieces. If you follow people who truly stand behind an item, they will tell you if the quality is worth the price, whether or not they would purchase themselves, how the sizing runs, and several ways to wear to the item. Personally I find this very helpful so that when I enter huge department stores I feel like I have a game plan, rather than just walking around looking at everything and becoming overwhelmed.

I think its important to note that in this day and age its easy to get caught up in trying to keep up with what we see on the internet.  For bloggers and other influencers buying and showcasing items is a part of their job, however for someone like myself who works a typical 9-5 job, I am only buying a select number of items for my own personal use. I use what my favorite bloggers/instagrammers are trying on and buying as a guide to what items I may be interested in, are within my budget, and will fit into my existing closet.

Now, on the pieces I tried on and which items I purchased:

First up was this BLANKNYC moto jacket with a removable hood for $64.90 ($98.00 after sale).  This item was in the B.P. section of my Nordstrom, aka the juniors department, therefore I sized up one size from a large to an extra-large. The faux leather is great quality for the price and very comfortable. This jacket will be perfect to throw on with jeans, a simple tee and some cute slip-on sneakers in the fall. You can also remove the hood and add some heels for an edgier nighttime look.

To recap:

• item: BLANKNYC Moto Jacket with removable hood
• price: $64.90 + tax
• size: XL (runs one size small)
• quality: 8/10
• versatility: 8/10
• purchased: yes

Next I tried on the Raw Edge Tweed Jacket by Halogen.  I am a huge fan of tweed jackets, I think they are so classic, chic and really make an outfit look more luxurious.  I enjoy wearing mine with skinny jeans, a blouse and flats, but you could also pair a jacket like this with dress pants for work, or a pair of boyfriend jeans and a tee.  For sizing I tried this jacket on in a Large and it fit true to size for me, without being to constricting in the arms or shoulders. I think the quality of this piece, as well as most other Halogen items is on par for the price-this jacket is on sale for $98.90 ($149.00 after sale).  However, because I already own several tweed jackets I passed on this one.

To recap:

• item: Halogen Raw Edge Tweed Jacket
• price: $98.90
• size: Large
• quality: 9/10
• versatility: 8/10
• purchased: No

The third item I tried on was this midi coat by the brand Leith in the color “Tan Dale”.  I grabbed a size large, and while the website says it runs true to size, I found it to be way too big on me! Unfortunately my store didn’t have any other sizes available, so I was not able to try on a smaller size to get a better idea of how the coat would look on my frame. The coat is on sale for $59.90 ($89.00 after sale), and while I think it has major potential, I don’t know that the quality is quite there.  The sizing is way off and it seems a little thin.  I also worry about the material pilling.  For these reasons, I passed on this coat.

To recap:

• item: Midi Coat By Leith
• price: $59.90
• size: Large (runs 1-2 size big)
• quality: 6/10
• versatility: 6/10
• purchased: No

Going in to the sale, I knew I really wanted to try on this J. Crew Olga Boiled Wool Topcoat.  I think it is such a classic piece and is practical for the fall and winter here in the Midwest. First I tried on the size 12 in the color “Dark Cement” and found it to run a little large and long in the sleeves. The quality was great and I really liked the overall look, so I sized down to a 12 petite, and it made a world of difference. I ended up purchasing the 12P in the color “Bright Red”, which will add a nice pop of color to my wardrobe. I plan on wearing it with skinny jeans, a white button up and a pair of black loafers.

To recap:

• item: J. Crew Olga Boiled Wool Topcoat
• price: $184.90 ($278.00 after sale)
• size: 12/12P (runs 1/2 size large)
• quality: 8/10
• versatility: 7/10
• purchased: Yes

This Blazer Midi Coat by the brand Mural was another item I had been eyeing going into the sale, and knew I would need to try on in person. The coat was in The B.P department, so I sized up to an extra-large, and it was a little baggy on me. I really like the idea of wearing this with black jeans and a cute pair of mules.  I went back and forth about purchasing this coat, I ended up passing because the fit wasn’t perfect and it seemed a little trendy for my style.

To recap:

• item: Blazer Midi Coat by Mural
• price: $84.90 ($128.00 after sale)
• size: exta-large (runs true to size)
• quality: 7/10
• versatility:  7/10
• purchased: No

Now, if you’ve made it this far, you are probably starting to notice a pattern here – I’ve only tried on coats and jackets! While I did in fact try on a few other items, I went in to try on very specific pieces in an attempt not to get distracted by the craziness of the sale. I tend to gravitate towards jackets/coats/blazers because its a super easy way to dress up a pair of jeans and create multiple looks. I already have a solid collection of denim and blouses to get me through the upcoming seasons, so I focused my attention to other pieces this year.

Okay, now onto the few items I tried on that were not coats. Unfortunately I didn’t think to take any photos of these items, so stock photos from the website will have to do, sorry!

I don’t usually wear graphic tees however, J. Crew makes some really cute ones that aren’t super cheesy, so I gave this tres chic tee a try. I sized up to an extra large for a looser fit, and it fit just right. It would be perfect for pairing with any pair of jeans and cardigan for fall, or with boyfriend jeans and a blazer. In the end, I did not end purchasing this tee, as I was really thinking about the coats I wanted to purchase, however I may go back for it since I do not own very many tees like it.

To recap:

• item: J. Crew “tres chic” graphic tee
• price: $29.00 ($45.00 after sale)
• size: extra large (runs true to size, size up for loosier fit)
• quality: 8/10
• versatility: 8/10
• purchased: No

Lastly, I tried on the Gibson Convertible Fleece Cardigan.  This item got a lot of hype and I can confirm it is warranted. Its such a neat concept-it starts off as a open cardigan but can also be worn wrapped around your neck to create a sweater thanks to snaps at the bottom. Not to mention it is super comfortable. My local Nordstrom only had extra-larges available, so I tried it on, and it fit well, but I feel like i could have also worn the L. I am 5 foot 4 inches tall, and the bottom of the cardigan almost touched the ground.  Sadly, I passed on this item, and I am seriously considering going back for it.

To recap:

• item: Convertible Fleece Cardigan by Gibson
• price: $45.90 ($68.00 after sale)
• size: XL (true to size)
• quality: 9/10
• versatility: 7/10
• purchased: No

There you have it, the items I tried on in store.  There were a lot of great items in a range of price points and as I stated earlier, I tried to stick to what worked for me in both terms of my current wardrobe and budget.  I’ve seen a lot of great sweaters and denim, so if you are interested in a post on items I think are good deals, let me know in the comments below.  Additionally, I did purchase three non-clothing items, which I will most likely share on my Instagram account, so be sure to check there too!

Thanks for reading!

-Ashley

My Nighttime Skin Care Routine

 

In the last few years as my interest for makeup has grown, so too has my skincare routine. I realized how important it was to have a proper skin care regimen in order to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.  I started out simple, using a makeup remover wipe or generic face wash, and over time have added several products that work well with my skin type.  When I use these products consistently I really notice a difference in the appearance of my skin and the way my makeup applies and wears.  Below are the six steps I take every night in order to keep my skin looking it’s best.

Step 1: Remove Makeup

I always begin my routine by removing my makeup. I like to use a wipe for this step.  It’s quick and easy.  I’ve tried several brands and variations of cleansing towelettes, but for the most part I stick with the Target brand.

Step 2. Cleanse

After removing the majority of my makeup, I cleanse my face using a face wash or cleanser.  I’m currently using this L’Occitane Precious Cleansing Foam, however I also like using Cetaphil.  If my skin is looking dull and in need of a little exfoliation, I will use these same products with my Clarisonic, otherwise a wash cloth does the trick!

Step 3: Tone

Following cleanser, I use a  facial toner.  Toners help restore the pH balance to your skin and ensure that every last trace of your makeup or other dirt and oil are removed.  I’ve gone through several bottles of this Mario Badescu one, but also use Clean and Clear when I’m in a pinch.

Step 4: Serums

After toning my skin I like to use a serum or any other type of anti-aging product I have. It’s important to complete this step before moisturizing to ensure that the product penetrates the skin and doesn’t just sit on top.  Currently I am using the RoC Deep Wrinkle Night Cream to help with the texture of my skin.  In the future I would like to try a product with hyaluronic acid.

Step 5: Moisturize 

Moisturizing is a crucial step in the nighttime skincare routine.  After washing away any natural oil from the face, it should be replaced by a moisturizer or other hydrating product. If you skip this step, your face will be left dry and your skin will want to produce extra oil to compensate, which in turn will lead to clogged pores!  I am currently using the L’Occitane Creme Divine cream and under-eye cream.  I also like to use the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, or CeraVe from the drugstore.

Step 6: Refresh

As my last step I like to use a facial mist to leave my skin feeling nice and refreshed.  This is not a necessary step, but it always makes me feel relaxed and ready for bed.  Plus, I love trying new mists.  Currently, I am trying out the Caudlie Beauty Elixer.  I also really like the Pur Minerals Miracle Mist and the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herb and Rosewater. 

After these steps my skin is ready for bed!  What is your favorite nighttime skin care product?  Let me know in the comments below.  Thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

Fall Fashion from Target

Earlier this week I made a quick trip to Target-just kidding, there is no such thing as a quick trip to Target for me.  What I really meant to say was, earlier this week I spent an hour and half at Target perusing every aisle, and left with more than the three items I intended on purchasing. Does this happen to anyone else?  I know I can’t be alone.  What really got me this time was how much clothing they have out for fall.  My local store always tends to carry what seems like much more clothing and accessories than other stores-so it was extra packed with items.  I left the store so inspired for the upcoming season, I had to share!

I was really surprised by how many different styles of sweaters there were.  We aren’t  just talking about your basic cardigans, they had big over-sized pullovers, boyfriend cardigans, and even dusters.  Each and every one looked so comfortable and came in a large variety of colors.  I was immediately drawn to the deep oranges, mustards and rich maroons.  I wasn’t able to find all of the items I saw, making it hard to link specifics, so you might check your store for more styles.  Here are few of my favorites that I was able to find online:

• 1. Ava & Viv Ribbed Cardigan $29.99- I love the duster length of this cardigan.  It would be great for pairing with leggings and a white tee for a lazy day or with denim and a blouse for a more put-together daytime look.  On a nice day it could even be worn as a light jacket.
• 2. Mossimo Supply Co. Multi-Colored Cardigan $24.99-This sweater screams “Fall”. The colors would be perfect to wear with a great pair of leather boots and the pattern will add a little something to a simple outfit.
• 3. Mossimo Supply Co. Grey Cardigan $24.99- This cardigan is what I consider “boyfriend” style-its cut a little boxier and longer than your traditional cardigan.  I love the grey color for a more neutral look, and the yellow for that perfect autumn pop of color.

In addition to sweaters, there were also some really great vests.  In the past few years I’ve really come around to wearing all different styles of vests (puffer, sweater, athletic..).  They really help achieve a layered, put-together look all while being practical.  One type of vest that was missing from my collection was a cargo or utility vest.  I ended up purchases the following two items:

• 4. Mossimo Cargo Vest: I think this cargo vest will go great with a variety of long        sleeved shirts underneath, but I’m most excited to try it out with other black pieces for a chic all black outfit.
• 5. Ava & Viv Utility Vest $29.99: I knew I had to have this item from the moment I saw it. Just check out Pinterest for over a dozen different ways to style a green vest like this-so cute!  I also like this dressier version and the longer trench one too!

As for tops, there were just so many great shirts and blouses, that it was almost overwhelming!  However, my top picks were these two plaid button downs that would be great on their own or layered with some of the above sweaters and vests.

• 1. Yarn-Dye Plaid Button Front Shirt $34.99- You can’t go wrong with black and white, its a no-brainer.  This shirt looks great on it’s own, but would look even better with a black puffer vest.  I own this one, and can’t wait to try the two together!
• 2. Ava & Viv Plaid Button Down Shirt $24,99-Again, I was drawn to this shirt because it would look great with a vest.  While the first shirt is a bit lighter of a material, this one is a softer, more traditional plaid material.

Now, on to shoes.  Target has really stepped up their shoe game over the past few years and this upcoming season is no exception.  I love shopping for flats at Target because they are almost always under $30.o0.  While I’m all for investing in a great quality pair of shoes, I also like to have a more affordable option for trying out trends.  I’ve narrowed my favorites down to four pair, but there were seriously so many awesome pairs!  Also, if you use the Cartwheel app shoes are 10% off until August 13th.

• 1. Merona Blossom Ankle Strap Ballet Flats $19.99- These quilted shoes are so cute, especially with the addition of the ankle strap.  The black and tan combo is so chic and remind me of Chanel.
• 2. Journee Collection Kim Patent Round Toe Flats $29.99- I stumbled upon these shoes while linking the other pairs and couldn’t help but to include them in the post. They come in four solid colors, and unfortunately are only sold online.  I am planning on ordering the red and black.  If you’ve lusted after a pair of these designer shoes, but couldn’t the stomach the price, then these might be a great pair to try!
• 3. Merona Poppy d’Orsay Pointed Toe Flats $22.99 – d’Orsay flats have been popular for a while now, yet this was the first time I’ve actually tried a pair on!  They were pretty comfortable for a pointed toe and the burgundy shade was beautiful in person.
• 4. Mossimo Supply Co. Kady Pointed Toe Lace Up Ballet Flats $24.99-  If you followed the Nordstrom sale, almost everyone (myself included) had a pair of lace-up shoes on their must-have list.  If you missed out on that deal, or just love the look, check these out-for $24.99 it’s worth trying out the trend!

Target was also brimming with handbags and accessories.  At this point, I had been in the store for quite a while and needed to get to going, so I only took a quick once-over this section, but found plenty I was lusting over.

• 1. Faux Leather Maya Crossbody Camera Handbag $24.99-This crossbody is the perfect size for taking to concerts, sporting events and other outdoor activities.
• 2. Mossimo Black Faux Leather Crossbody Handbag $34.99- I’ve been thinking about this bag since I left the store.  While I’ve already purchased a handbag for fall, it’s on the more practical/everyday side, and this bag would be perfect for dressier/going out occasions.  I like that it still has a lot of room on the inside for being a crossbody and is a gorgeous “bordeaux” color.
• 3. Mossimo Black Faux Leather Tote Handbag $39.99- Last. is this tote with nice clean lines.  It would make a great work bag, or add structure to any daytime outfit.

Well, there they are, my current top picks from Target,  I’m hoping to pick up a few more of these items as we transition from summer to fall. (As if I need any more excuses to go to Target!)  What were your favorite items?  Is your Target already putting out a lot of fall items?  Let me know in the comments below.  Thanks for reading!

What’s in My Bag

TGIF!  The weekend is upon us and I can’t wait to get out of the house and spend some time exploring the city these next couple of days.  I have a long-time friend coming to visit and I’m excited to show her around our new neighborhood.  Because I know we will spend a majority of our day out and about I will be packing my purse with the essentials I need to get me through the day. Keep reading to see what I keep in my bag.

New Month, New Products

 

Can you believe it is August already?  Summer always seems to go by so fast!  In my last post I focused on products I had recently used up in the month of July.  Today, I am sharing a few of the items I recently purchased to replace a few of those items.  I had a 20 percent off your entire purchase coupon (including prestige brands) from Ulta and platinum members earned 5 times the rewards, so it seem like a good time to pick up a few items I have been wanting to try.

I had seen several bloggers and YouTube vloggers talking about the new Urban Decay All Nighter Liquid Foundation  that recently launched and could not wait to try it out for myself.  It is advertised as a full-coverage, matte finish and long-lasting foundation. Even though I have only been wearing it for a few days, I can already attest to these claims.  Per the advice of many reviews, I chose a shade lighter than normal, as the foundation dries a bit darker than when first applied.  I am the lightest shade 0.5 Fair Porcelain.  There seems to be quite a large shade range, however the lighter shades seem to all run on the warm side.

When I ran out of my Make Up For Ever Ultra HD concealer I knew I need to find another under-eye concealer ASAP-it’s definitely a crucial step in my makeup routine.  I had tried a drugstore product that worked pretty well, but I was looking for higher coverage and something with a shade light enough to give my face a highlighted look.  I decided to go with the recently released Too Faced Born This Way Naturally Radiant Concealer in the shade Very Fair.  Last year I tried the Born This Way Foundation and was not a fan for my skin type, but so far I’m pretty impressed with the concealer.

As I mentioned in my previous post, one of my favorite mascaras was discontinued.  In it’s place I’ve been using the new Rimmel Volume Colourist Mascara.  I’m really enjoying the wand and the consistency of this formula.  I haven’t had too many issues with smudging or smearing around the lash line- a total feat for the summer heat.  I am curious to see if I notice any difference in the color of my lashes, as this product claims it will tint your lashes over time.

While I was at Ulta I totally fell total victim to the travel/sample-size section at the check-out and ended up picking up the First Aid Beauty Vitamin Hydrating Mist .  I thought it would be a good product to replace my empty Mac Prep + Prime Fix +, so into my bag it went.  I’ve been giving it a go for the last few days and it seems to be nice and refreshing both before and after my makeup application.

Overall I’ve been pleased with all the products I purchased and will continue to test them out and share reviews as time goes on.  Did anyone else use the 20 percent off coupon over the weekend?  It’s such a good deal!  Let me know what products you are wanting to try this month in the comments below.  Thanks for reading!

 

July Empties: Products I’ve Used Up

These products are empty and headed to trash. Read below to see which products I would repurchase. 

Do you ever finish a product and have that bittersweet moment of simultaneously being sad but also proud that you used up an entire item?  If you are a total makeup lover like me, you totally get it.  Now, you are either left without your favorite product and need to restock ASAP, or you are excited because you get to replace it with a new item you’ve been wanting to try.  Either way, it always seems to end up in a trip to the beauty counter.

Today, I will be sharing with you the products that I have finished over the past month. Some of these products I have been using longer than others and some I enjoyed more than others.  Continue reading to see what products were hits, which were misses and what I’m looking forward to purchasing in the future.