If you follow me on Instagram, you know that yesterday I posted a picture of my NYE look; so I was super excited to be invited by JULEP to create a holiday look using a few of their pretty products. While not completely identical to tonight's ensemble; this look is inspired by what I'll be wearing tonight when the ball drops - and features one of the products I picked up from the JULEP SAVVY SALE going on now. Happy New Year's Eve lovelies!
There is no better time to embrace blue, blue, and more blue than the winter season. For nails, lips {trust me, it's not what you think}, eyes...even body! Here are 7 of my top picks for adding a little blue to your beautiful life!
Three coats of Sugar Nail Frosting Glitter Nail Polish in Mint Chocolate Chip. Mint Creme with Silver and Black Glitter.
Essie Mint Candy Apple is my all-time favorite polish for the winter; so, of course, I'm completely obsessed with Mint Chocolate Chip - which is like the glittered ice cream version of the iconic Essie offering.
Like Cake Toppings, Mint Chocolate Chip has an amazing formula that is very sheer, but builds beautifully with a few coats. Digging this one for the winter season!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
Yesterday I shared the contents of my swap package from Elle of ElleSees, and today I'm showing off the sweet gifts I received from Ashley of Happy. Pretty. Sweet.
It all screams winter, doesn't it?
Christmas and the winter season as a whole is all about coziness for me, and that is exactly the vibe that I got from Ashley's package from the moment I unboxed it.
Currently I'm decked out in these ultra-adorableReindeer Lounge Socks from Bath & Body Works - which are shea-infused and just about the softest thing I have ever felt! Vanilla is my all-time favorite scent so I've been loving this Wild Madagascar Vanilla Body Lotion {also from Bath & Body Works}, which has the standard vanilla scent I know and love with the added bonus of musk, spice, and floral notes which make it totally unique.
I have yet to see Frozen {I know, I know}, but these Frozen tissues have made me all the more eager to {they've also been a great help as I battle a winter cold}. My favorite thing of all? The JULEP Lip Crayon in Cardinal Red. New favorite red right here! The color is super-saturated and very reminiscent of a Poinsettia {coincidentally my birth flower}, making it holiday perfect. I paired it with my Thermal Pajama Set in Red Stripe on Christmas morning for present unwrapping!
Thank you for being my Swap Partner, Ashley; and for the wonderful presents you sent my way!
Merry Christmas (to those who celebrate). How many of you are still in your PJs tinkering with your holiday loot? Or maybe flipping through magazines, blog feeds whatever while sipping that last bit of egg nog? Well, today is the big day. What's next New Year? Now is the time to reflect on giving, gratitude and also what worked for us this year, and what didn't work so much. Take it easy today... luckily there is a fantastic roundup this week to feed your inner muse!
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You may remember me announcing the great holiday blog swap a little over a month ago. Well...there was an odd number of participants, so I wound up swapping with 2 different bloggers {no complaints about that}: Elle of ElleSees and Ashley of Happy. Pretty. Sweet. Today I'm sharing my swap goodies from Elle!
Such a fab assortment, right?!
My nephews swiped some of the Sugar Cookie Hot Cocoa Mix from me, but I had enough to know that it is one of the most amazing things I have ever tasted! The candle is Hot Apple Cider scented, and wearing. a. reindeer. print. sweater.So cute...I know! I have a thing for holiday socks and have already worn both pairs with ankle boots to add a festive feel to my #ootd. The cleansing wipes I have yet to try, but have a home in my bag as they will be perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. What am I most excited for?
A geo print cape is an easy way to add sophistication to the simplicity of a black turtleneck and black leggings - a style sentiment made even stronger with the addition of charcoal gray over the knee boots. Go bold with a wide-brim black hat nestled upon tousled locks, and a vibrant berry lip; completing your chic look with a dove grey toned satchel and black wayfarer sunnies.
In the words of the brilliantLouisa May Alcott...the poem Merry Christmas:
"In the rush of early morning,
When the red burns through the gray,
And the wintry world lies waiting
For the glory of the day,
Then we hear a fitful rustling
Just without upon the stair,
See two small white phantoms coming,
Catch the gleam of sunny hair.
Are they Christmas fairies stealing
Rows of little socks to fill?
Are they angels floating hither
With their message of good-will?
What sweet spell are these elves weaving,
As like larks they chirp and sing?
Are these palms of peace from heaven
That these lovely spirits bring?
Rosy feet upon the threshold,
Eager faces peeping through,
With the first red ray of sunshine,
Chanting cherubs come in view:
Mistletoe and gleaming holly,
Symbols of a blessed day,
In their chubby hands they carry,
Streaming all along the way.
Well we know them, never weary
Of this innocent surprise;
Waiting, watching, listening always
With full hearts and tender eyes,
While our little household angels,
White and golden in the sun,
Greet us with the sweet old welcome,-
'Merry Christmas, every one'!"
My family doesn't have a ton of holiday traditions; but one thing that is majorly important year in and year out is the tradition of...holiday pajamas! It truly doesn't feel like Christmas until a new pair have been purchased for all, and we're sitting around the Christmas tree decked out in them. It definitely doesn't hurt when cute mugs, cozy slippers, and favorite holiday films are playing either!
Diamonds may be a girls best friend, but classy girls wear pearls {for all occasions}. Your company Christmas party? A timelessJapanese Akoya Double-Strand Necklace will pair perfectly with black slim slacks and classic black pumps. A fun-fueled vampy night out with the girls? The mystifying aesthetic and color of a Tahitian South Sea Pearl Ring makes it a superlative choice for captivating your besties and handsome suitors alike.
Personally, I love to be the girl with the pearl on New Year's Eve, when flashy diamonds are in abundance, and a sophisticated pearl accessory makes you the style standout - chic-ifying even the most basic of denim, or adding an extra oomph of sass and class to the festive frock you selected to watch the ball drop. One of my favorite places to shop pretty pearls? The Pearl Source - an Online destination that specializes in pearls of all origins and mediums, from Tahitian South Sea bracelets to Golden South Sea earrings, and Japanese Akoya necklaces {in single, double, and triple strand - oh my!}.
I've been adoringoversize pearl earrings in blush tones {peaches, pinks, and light lilacs and lavenders} as of late; therefore, I plan on wearing Freshwater pearl earrings {like the two pairs you see above} with a slouchy white turtleneck sweater, and cozy, faux fur-lined boots for the New Year's Day brunch date I have planned with my BFF. But for New Year's Eve? I have a black sequin mini on my attire agenda and will be reaching for Golden South Sea pearl accessories because black and gold is such a stunning holiday color combo!
As I said...classy girls wear pearls for all occasions - be it casual, worldly, special occasion, or otherwise. Now tell me...are you a girl who loves pearls or a diamond diva?
What color pearls top your favorites list?
xx
Thanks to The Pearl Source for Sponsoring this post!
Two coats of Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Over the Rainblue. Small and Medium Round Blue Glitter with Silver Holographic Bar Tinsel Glitter in a Clear Base.
One of my new favorite top coats - and just so perfect for New Year's or the winter season!
Over the Rainblue is definitely meant to be worn as a glitter topper, as it's impossible for it to build to opacity on it's own - and that's okay! Here I'm wearing it over Essie Tuck It In My Tux.
I love the way this dispenses - it's very minimal but even, and gives good coverage {nodab and pat necessary!}. The base is very agreeable to work with - not thin, not thick and gloppy...just perfect! Over the Rainblue is a shade you definitely want in your stash!
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
A Quinceañera is a huge {hugehugehuge} event in a girls life - a coming out of sorts that makes you feel as if you've finally entered the realm of adulthood, and are debuting your new, grown-up self to the world. So, of course, it requires the perfect attire. The royal Quinceañera dresses to wear on big day should juxtapose the worlds of innocence and sophistication - being mature yet modest, frilly yet un-cupcake-like {you know what I'm talking about}, beautiful yet bold. In other words, a dress that you'll look back upon fondly.
I myself love Purple Quinceañera Dresses as the color is powerful yet princess-esque {such a killer combo, right?}. I have come to adore Weddingshe for the popular designer clothes online, as their selection of pretty pieces is one of the best {as are their pricepoints}, and they have so. many. gorgeous. options that fit the purple special occasion dress bill. Here are my 3 faves:
Fancy Sweetheart Beading Lace-up A-Line Long Prom/Quinceanera Dress {$126.99}
My #1 Top Pick. I am seriously swooning over the beaded detailing - the corset-back is also an appealing touch.
Fabulous Ball Gown Sweetheart Beading Ruffles Lace-Up Quinceanera Dress {$262.99}
I love that it's frothy without being too over the top. So perfect for the girl who loves to twirl!
Attractive A-line Sweetheart Pleats Evening/Prom Dresses {$169.99}
The embellished bodice is absolutely brilliant! Also adoring that tulle skirt - it's veryballerina off-duty {it's a thing}.
We're wrapping up things up for this year, some of us quite literally! But others, well, we're still frantically trying to figure out to get that you-know-who who's hard to shop for. Anyway, this week, we're a bit focused on the holidays, as that's all many of us can think of. But not to worry, it's only for about a week or so!
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You know me and shoes...they are the deal maker or breaker when planning an outfit of the day. And when the ensemble in question involves a wedding dress...well, let's just say your wedding shoes {www.weddingdresstrend.com/en/wedding-shoes} had better be on point. After all, when that hemline rises for the removal of the garter belt, your shoes are front and center; therefore, they must. be. fabulous!
Lately I've been loving weddingdresstrend.com for their selection of sassy yet classy footwear fit for a princess and absolutely perfect for your big day! Here are 3 of my top picks:
Satin Upper Stiletto Heel Peep Toe Platform with Pleats Wedding Shoes {$70.95}
The classic. Pleated details lend an unconventional feel.
Satin Upper Stiletto Heel Pointed Toe Pumps with Rhinestones Wedding Shoes {$66.69}
The rhinestone ankle strap makes them a standout!
Satin Upper Stiletto Heel Peep Toe with Rhinestone Wedding Shoes {$86.99} All over rhinestone embellishment add an ultra-glam touch.
Do you have a favorite pair?
xx
Thanks to WeddingDressTrend for Sponsoring this post!
Southern California's 24 / 7 sunshine doesn't allow much time to cozy up, so I definitely take advantage of those rare moments when the temperatures drop, the chill sets in, and the only thing on the agenda is curling up in cute + comfy pajamas with a great book in hand. Here are some of my favoritecozy discoveries for chilly days. Enjoy!
Clarisonic Pink Mia1 Electric{$99.00} This is an amazing {in price + product} starter set of the iconic Mia1. The recipient's skin will thank you. Trust.
PMD Personal Microderm Device{$159.00} Leaves your skin feeling super smooth - as if you've had a professional facial + body wrap! It's also gentle on sensitive and dry skin.
NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device{$325.00} These are being used by aestheticians at loads of spas across the country. I love it for zapping away under-eye bags, but it's also amazing for face sculpting {think an at-home facelift}.
Veet Infini'Silk Pro Light-Based IPL Hair Removal System for Home Use{$299.00} I was lucky enough to receive this for review and it has quickly become an HG product for me. After a few uses on my legs, underarms, and bikini linehair regrowth is minimal, and I feel as if I'm on my way to never having to shave those areas again. This is such a painless, fast, and effective way to combat hair growth without having to seek assistance from a pricey salon. Highly, highly recommended as a gift for yourself for the holidays!
Foreo LUNA™ for Sensitive/Normal Skin{$199.00} Perfect for the girl with sensitive skin who wants a deep cleansing brush that also reduces the signs of aging {you can never start too early!}.
Laura Mercier Eyelash Curler{$16.00} One of the greatest gadgets a girl could own - and it's under-$20! The fact that it doesn't pinch and curls quickly makes this a gifting essential.
Two coats of Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Open Mica Night. Silver Square Holographic Glitter in a Clear Base.
So simple. So sparkly.
Having spent more than 7 years writing about local bands for a newspaper {and covering my fair share of open mic nights}, I couldn't help but to love this polish {a lot} even before trying it out.
The simplicity of Open Mica Night is what makes it standout in a sea of glitters, and has made it a new fave for me. It's a very versatile top coat that could easily make any polish color feel a bit more special, but I was feeling ultra-girly so I layered it over nails inc. London's Mayfair Lane.
This doesn't dispense a ton of glitter with each brushstroke, so you definitely need to dab and pat - but do so carefully as the clear base is a bit thick and can feel gloppy. Highly recommended in terms of effect; but apply with care.
What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?
Winter, spring, summer, or fall...all present a gorgeous setting for a wedding, yes? There's the possibility for a beach wedding during the warmer months, a reception at an apple orchard during autumn {tell me you don't adore that idea?!}, a garden brimming with freshly-bloomed flowers for spring, and twinkling fairy lights for a winter I do. My personal favorite? The latter.
Though a fall wedding holds its appeal, I'm utterly enchanted by the concept of a winter wedding. Just think: faux fur capelets draped over wedding / bridesmaid gowns; heel tracks in the snow; holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias woven around the arbor. Magical, isn't it? The only thing that could top this magic moment? Shopping for wedding dresses, of course!
My taste in terms of fashion is either full-out glam or low-key luxe - a very broad spectrum of style that carries over to my wedding gown loves and lusts. After browsing a bit, I managed to find 2 decadent dresses that perfectly fit both molds - a high-glam option for the girl who wants to feel like a princess and a more modest low-key yet still luxe for the girl who wants to keep things a little bit cas on her big day. Peep them both below!
Pretty A-Line Sweetheart Embroidery & Pick-ups Court Train Dasha's Wedding Dress {$224.59}
I absolutely adore the juxtaposition between old-fashioned {the lace-up corset back and sweeping, wide-set chapel train} and modernistic {sweetheart neckline and embroidered detailing}. This one is dripping with drama - so perfect for the high-glam girl within!
Gorgeous Empire Spaghetti Straps Beaded Court Train Dasha's Wedding Dress {$144.29}
Reminiscent of the dress Serena van der Woodsen wore to the Hamptons White Party on the one and only Gossip Girl - tell me you remember. Obsessed with the jewel-encrusted waist, neckline, and straps - they are the absolute perfect complement to the winter white color of the gown. Not to mention it's got that whole Greek Goddess vibe I love going on so well.
Ok, usually there's a lot of complaining about the holidays. Stress. Shopping. Crazy Family. But for some reason, and by all means this is awesome, people are really happy about the holidays this year. Well, at least in this roundup. Getting festive, not worrying too much and having a fun time, that's what these final days of 2014 should all be about!
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Who likes to party? Considering it's the holiday season, the more appropriate question would be: who doesn't like to party? After all, there are very fewladies and gents who can resist holiday soiree season, amiright? The cocktail dresses, the sequins, sparkles, and tinsel, the mistletoe...it's a time for making magic - and GBridal is here to bring that sentiment to life!
If we've learned anything from the party dress selection at ASOS, it's that strapless, embellishments, one-shoulder aesthetics, and loads of sparklesparklesparkle {a total given!} is all. the. rage. For the holiday season {or any special occasion really}.
I am totally loving GBridal's Cocktail Dresses 2015 options as they perfectly fit with the trends of the times and are bound to make you standout at just about any soiree you find yourself attending this season! Here are my 3 favorite pieces for making an undoubtedly grand entrance!
Sheath/Column Spaghetti Straps Backless Natural Taffeta Sleeveless Cocktail Dresses {$115.99}
I love a champagne hue for the holidays - it manages to be both winter-inspired and a gorgeous neutral that looks positively amazing on all skintones. I'm adoring this one as it combines a bandage dress-like fit {forever on-trend} with a sparkling bodice that is both elegant and sexy.
Light-Filled One-Shoulder Chiffon Sheath/Column Cocktail Party Dress {$125.99}
The Greek goddess look is always a good idea for enchanting your audience, and this one-shoulder wonder is no different. The winter white color is perfect for capturing the snow bunny meets seductress vibe; while the beading at hip and shoulder give the appearance of tiny snowflakes. So obsessed with this lovely!
Sheath/Column V-Neck Backless Natural Taffeta Sleeveless Cocktail Dresses {$109.99} Le sigh. I'm not sure where to start with this beauty. The color itself {a royal blue meets blurple} is just heavenly for winter / New Year celebrations; but the detailing and embellishments are what have truly caught my eye. I love the rhinestone-encrusted straps, but even more? The pockets! I am crazy for pockets, so this, to me, is the most spectacular addition ever! Who's with me?!
Which one of these would you love to wear to a holiday party?
2014 has been the year of HOUSE collections from Ciaté - all of which I have absolutely adored; so, of course, I had to have the Candy Cane House in my life for the holidays. Ciaté was kind enough to send one my way.
The Candy Cane House Collection is, basically, Christmas in a box - no seriously. The 4 glitter top coats are scented {the box even comes with scratch and sniff ability on the side}, come with shade names like Tangled Tinsel and Snow Fall, and {I've saved the best for last}, come packaged in a box that is, essentially, a replica of Santa Claus' abode in the North Pole. Cute doesn't even begin to describe it. Let's take a look at the polish!
Candy Craze is Multicolor Micro and Hex Glitter in a Clear Base {smells like candy canes}. Favorite! Candy Craze was the last shade I tried in this collection, but it is my absolute fave out of the 4 {it also smells the yummiest!}. The white and green holo microglitter and white, green, and red hex glitter are so perfectly Christmas - I can't even! The formula is amazing here - the glitter applies very evenly with little to no fuss, and really adds a splash of festive to your fingers! Here I am wearing it over e.l.f. Essential Nail Polish in Cranberry. This is 1 coat.
Snow Fall is a White Glitter in an Iridescent Base {smells like fresh cotton}. So I know this looks chunky, but I felt like using Snow Fall as it's own shade, as opposed to layering it over a darker color, because the iridescent holographic pearlized base was so pretty and incredibly unique. Glitters usually come packed in a clear base, but Snow Fall rests in what appears to be Ciaté's Halo, which I reviewed earlier this year. Yes, it would also look amazing used as a top coat, but I kind of dig the freshly fallen snow vibe this mani has going on. This is 4 coats.
Tangled Tinsel is Blue Microglitter and Gold Asymmetric Shards in a Clear Base {smells like Christmas trees}. The second I saw this color I was like need that on now!Tangled Tinsel is a great holiday-inspired top coat if you want something a little different than the standard gold, green, red, white, silver mixes. The blue microglitter and randomly shaped gold shards are just brilliant for standing out! The formula is the perfect density, and super fast apply + dry time. Here I am wearing it over e.l.f. Essential Nail Polish in Pot of Gold. This is 2 coats.
olish in
Ginger Snap is Multicolor Micro and Hex Glitter in a Clear Base {smells like gingerbread}. I'm not usually a fan of multicolor glitter polish, so I'm surprised to say that Ginger Snap is one of my favorites in this collection. The glitter is so shiny that it literally looks like small sequins - very unusual and very gorgeous. Formula is fab! The glitter disperses quite evenly, and the base is the perfect density - not too thick, not too thin. Here I'm wearing it over Essie Jiggle Hi Jiggle Low. This is 2 coats.
The fragrance on each of these polishes is very subtle, so it's not something that should bother you while wearing - in fact, it's really only faintly discernible if you have your hands near your face {nothing overpowering}, with Ginger Snap having the most detectable scent.
I highly, highly recommend this set as a holiday gift - anyone would be thrilled to find this under the Christmas tree!
nails inc. London Winter Wonderland Collection{$29.00} nails inc. releases some of the best special effects polishes, and this limited edition collection is no different - especially for gifting! The 3 winter-meets-Christmas shades are fab for adding shimmer and shine to holiday manis.
Urban Decay Naked3{$54.00} All of the Naked palettes are amazing; but I chose the Naked3 for gifting as the packaging is spot-on for the holidays + it's a neutral palette that features the type of neutrals you won't find in other neutral palettes {if that makes any sense}.
Bobbi Brown Mini Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick Trio{$38.00} Cream shadow sticks are perfect for creating quick makeup looks; and Bobbi Brown's are. the. best. Easy to use, long-lasting, and portable! The colors in this trio are amazing for all skintones - and work day or night.
I feel like there were more mini holiday nail sets released last year than this year; but the few that have debuted have been a-ma-zing so it's NBD. Of the holiday releases, one of my faves is Essie's Luminously Luxe Manicure because the packaging screams holiday {perfect for gifting}, the colors are seriously on-trend for the season, and the price is just right {$13.00 for 4 mini bottles - full-size bottles cost $8.50 each}.
The Luminously Luxe Manicure Set is an amazing choice for gifting {how cute would this be as a stocking stuffer?!} or an all-in-one holiday mani set for yourself - I say all-in-one as it includes 2 gorgeous cremes and 2essential sparkling top coats...all of which can be mixed and matched. Check out the prettiness here!
Size Matters is a Classic Red Creme. A girl can never have too many red polishes in her stash - especially during the holiday season, amiright? Size Matters is a blue-toned red that is slightly darker than it appears here. The formula is utterly incredible - very smooth and creamy. This is 2 coats.
Rock At the Top is a Yellow-Gold Glitter in a Clear Base. Rock At the Top is one of those glitters that will instantly transform any polish color into holiday perfection. The formula here is flawless. Just a single swipe leaves you with this glittery gorgeousness! This is 1 coat.
No More Film is a Dark Blurple Creme. This formula though...No More Film is one of those elusive one-coaters that is smooth and creamy. It's downfall is that it likes to run and pool in your cuticles. With careful application this one is a total winner; without, it's a bit of a mess. This is 1 coat.
Summit Of Style is a Rose Gold Glitter in a Clear Base. Look. At. That.Brilliant, yes? It's not everyday that you find a rose gold glitter so I'm loving the uniqueness of this one. The formula here is identical to that of Rock At the Top. In other words: fab! This is 1 coat.