Friday, November 21, 2014

Current beauty favorites

Initially, I wanted to create a monthly post of my beauty favorites. But to be honest, I am pretty loyal to the products I love and that work for my complexion and skin type. Therefore, I decided to create a current favorites instead.

Many women ask what makeup products I use with the assumption that I may only use MAC or more higher end brands. I think this has become a global assumption...that in order to achieve a flawless and "beat" face, you have to wear these type of brands. I hope this post inspires you to save a few bucks in your pocket, and achieve a flawless and "beat" look on a budget. Here are just a few makeup and other beauty related products that I have been loving on lately!

1. Pure Essentials Oil Aroma Naturals Tranquility Aromatic Mist- a few sprays on my pillows really helps me get a good night's sleep
2. The Body Shop Atlas Mountain Rose Body Butter- I love the smell and body butters are great for the colder seasons
3. Cantu Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream- soooo moisturizing
4. Cantu Shea Moisture for Natural Hair Complete Conditioning Co-Wash- also very moisturizing
1. Maybelline Color Tattoo by Eye Studio 24hr eyeshadow in 35 Tough as Taupe
2. Maybelline New York Define-A-Brow Pencil in Medium Brown- Anastasia, who!? Lol
3. MAC satin eyeshadow in Coquette
4. MAC Pro Longwear eyeshadow in Uninterrupted- also great for contouring
5. L.A. Girl H.D. Pro Concealers in Cool Tan (GC980) and Warm Honey (GC982)
1. The Body Shop Tea Tree Cool & Creamy Wash- pairs well with my Shea Moisture Black Soap that I also love
2. Shea Moisture African Black Soap Problem Skin Facial Mask with Tamarind and Tea Tree Oil- this is great for all skin types as I do not have problem skin
3. NYX Studio Perfect Photo-Loving Primer- this is great if you have oily skin like myself
4. NYX Matte Finish Long Lasting Setting Spray- this works wonders when you spray before and after your makeup application
5. Revlon Photo Ready foundation in 010 Caramel- apply this with a Real Technique's beauty sponge for a flawless and natural finish
1. Forever21 Nail Color in Light Grey- I am all about nudes and natural nails, and am currently obsessing over grey anything (lol)
2. SinfulSHINE with Gel Tech in Prosecco1480- paired with the Light Grey polish or alone, this color is absolutely gorgeous
3. NYX Simply Vamp Lip Cream in Aphrodisiac SV03- amazing Autumn and Winter lip color and easy to apply
4. MAC satin lipstick in Siss- I don't hear much rave about this color but it is one of my favorite nudes
5. NYX Matte Lipstick in Butter MLS21- this is my absolute favorite nude color and very comparable to Rhianna's MAC nude lipstick

Monday, November 3, 2014

The Alexander Wang X H&M Collection



When I got word that two of my favorite designers were collaborating to release an exclusive collection this Fall, I was elated! I instantly marked the release date of November 6th on my calendar. After all, only important dates get stored on one's calendar, right? I know I am not the only person that has done this...if so, then I am sure that I am no longer alone if you have read this far and took heed to properly planning for this highly anticipated release date (lol).
Sad to say that after getting a glimpse of what to expect from this collaboration, I am no longer anticipating the 6th. After previewing the collection, I was highly disappointed. I just could not find any pieces that were "me," or that I felt I had to have. If you are really into the sporty lux trend, then you will fall head over heels with this exclusive collection. I personally am not a huge fan of this particular trend so I will be passing up on this one, unfortunately. However, I thought I would give you a glimpse of what to anticipate if you have not had the opportunity to preview items from this collaboration. This collection features trendsetting clothing and accessory pieces with a sporty twist for men and women.
Nonetheless, this will be a day to remember as Alexander Wang (a New York-based fashion designer) will be the first designer to partner with H&M for their annual designer collaboration! Let us take a quick moment to celebrate Mr. Alexander Wang!!! Now tell me, what trendy pieces do you have your eyes on? Share with me in the comments box down below.
 
 


Thursday, October 30, 2014

Howdy, Fall!

Though I never look forward to the colder months, fashion helps me get in the Autumn and Winter spirit. Putting an outfit together and getting dressed in the morning gives me something to look forward to. During this time of year, I love to layer and play with an array of textures. I've also found myself going for more monochromatic looks. I think it just looks so classic and effortlessly chic!

This is an outfit I wore to church one casual Sunday morning. Side note, I dress however I'm feeling for the day and really appreciate churches who allow their congregation to really "come as you are." Some days, I'm just not feeling a dress or skirt. Well back from my little tangent, I am playing with a little texture in this outfit. Sometimes it's those subtle details that really complete a look.

In this outfit, I am wearing a white button-up blouse from H&M, black skinnies from Forever 21, oversized distressed denim jacket from Forever 21 that also has some black lace detailing on the back, black suede booties also from Forever 21 with gold studs, and a black wool fedora from (you guessed it, Forever 21 again). And I just love the gold chain detail on this hat! Lastly, I am wearing a cognac oversized tote from H&M for a warm, but neutral, pop of color.