7.14.2016

Essie Online Only Summer Collection Mini Set Swatches + Review


After months of eye-searing neon nail polish collections, I was thrilled to spot Essie's Online Only Summer Collection Mini Set. Inspired by Rebecca Minkoff's {she's Essie's Global Color Designer} Antigua travels, the collection is brimming with serene sea-faring shades, and jewel tones that will seamlessly sail into your fall nail-drobe. Check out the stunning shades for yourself below!


Loot The Booty is a Pave Sapphire Blue. I didn't notice the name of this polish until after I had applied it to my nails, and once I did, not gonna lie, I LOL'd. I mean, how can you not?! Loot The Booty would have been bomb for 4th of July, but I didn't break this baby open until July 5th, so...moot point. This shade right here is destined to be a classic. The formula is flawless {you can get away with one coat!}, the shimmer throughout is magical, and the color itself is apropos for winter, spring, summer, or fall. Excuse me while I go contemplate never changing my polish color again. Get this one girls! This is 2 coats.


Coconut Cove is an Off-White Creme. I honestly thought that this would be my favorite shade from this quartet, but my bottle arrived open {womp womp}, which resulted in a thick, gloppy formula that refused to even out. On top of that, there was brush shedding, and even in its most minimal form, no one wants that! Yes, the color is gorgeous, and remains my favorite of the lot, but the formula was a flop for me {insert crying emoji here}. This is 2 coats.


Berried Treasures is a Bright Ruby Berry Creme. Berried Treasures is an interesting shade. On one hand, the berry shading lends a winter-y feel to it; on the other, the hot pink undertones make it feel summer-y - together, it creates a sort of brightened poppy red-meets-pink that, while not super unique, sure is pretty. Formula here is fab. It builds quickly, packs amazing pigmentation, and would honestly look amaze for all seasons. This is 2 coats.


Viva Antigua! is an Iridescent Crystalline Turquoise. If you're really a mermaid than this color is going to give you all of the feels. Viva Antigua! is a stunning color for those of you looking for a mint / blue hybrid. The fine, iridescent shimmer throughout is subtle, yet enough of a standout to inspire mermaid tail comparisons; while the color itself feels distinctly oceanic. The formula here was fab. Though it felt slightly thinner than the rest of the collection, it quickly built up to opaque perfection! This is 2 coats.


AVAILABILITY: Ulta for the mini set; Amazon for individual bottles.

PRICE: $17.00 for the quartet; or buy individual bottles separately for $8.50 each.


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7.13.2016

#motd: i'm really a mermaid

Eyeshadow: Pacifica® Love 3 Natural Mineral Coconut Eye Shadow Trio | Eyeshadow Brush: e.l.f. Eyeshadow C Brush {c/o} | Liner: e.l.f. Cream Eyeliner in TEAL TEASE {c/o} | Lips: e.l.f. Lip Balm SPF 15 in NUDE {c/o} | Blush: JULEP Skip the Brush Creme-to-Powder Blush Stick in GOLDEN GUAVA | Bronzer: e.l.f. Baked Bronzer in LOS CABOS {c/o} | Face Brush: Real Techniques Buffing Brush

4th of July weekend seemed like the best time to bust out a blue-like liner. I am L-O-V-I-N-G this cream eyeliner from e.l.f. in the shade teal tease - it adds major definition and flirt, feels fresh for summer, and def checks off those mermaid / festival vibe boxes!


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7.12.2016

currently crushing...

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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9

A few chilly SoCal mornings have left me reaching for slouchy sweaters and ankle boots, and made me kinda sorta crave fall {don't hate me!}. Add in layers of western-inspired accessories and jewelry and you've basically summed up my crushes for the week!


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7.11.2016

NOTD: Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer in B-Girl Style

Three coats of Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer in B-Girl Style. Barbie Pink with Blue-Meets-Purple Shimmer.

I'm a Barbie girl in a Barbie world. Life in plastic, it's fantastic. Fact: I literally sing that song in my head every. single. time. I look at my nails because this bright babe right here is the best Barbie pink hue in history!

B-Girl Style has a fairly thin formula, resulting in patchiness and the need for extra coats. That said, it is a breeze to work with. B-Girl Style dries down to a matte finish, hiding away the gorgeous shimmer seen during application. While top coat adds shine to this shade, it does little in revealing said shimmer. Womp womp.


What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?

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7.10.2016

santa rosa

santa rosa
RAGA Santa Rosa Romper in EGGSHELL.

Embroidered detailing; an open-back; braided, tassel ties at the waist and neck; and pockets {!!!} make this beauty a serious essential for the long weekend!


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7.09.2016

links à la mode: the IFB weekly roundup {july 7, 2016 edition}

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Outfits can tell a story without words. They express things like where we are going, what we are celebrating, current mood, and even our patriotism. While rose quartz and serenity are the colors of the year, red, white, and blue were the colors of the week. Celebrating the 4th of July holiday was the obvious reason but I also think they are great colors of Summer–they speak of cherry pie with whipped cream and blueberries or in other words, they spell picnic. {I’m hungry}.

IFB Bloggers shared many of their current favorite trends. Nothing new here but the enthusiasm still hasn’t diminished. Off the shoulder looks, two piece dress ensembles, rompers, and skate skirt silhouettes. Also, basics like white t-shirts, sneakers, and denim. Favorites beyond wardrobe are mini backpacks, tasseled accessories, and products to achieve that perfect Summer glow without the perspiration. Anyone traveling to Vegas or Japan? IFB Bloggers have you covered. You’re bound to add at least one new idea to your itinerary.

Read on for more Summer stories.


Links a la Mode, july 7




SPONSOR: Amazon's Shopbop Rebecca Minkoff, ViX Swimwear, DSQUARED2 Dresses, Grey Jason Wu, Elle & Jae Gypset, Atelier Mon, One Shoulder Dresses, Black Chokers, Boho Gladiator Sandals, Men's Democratique Socks


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7.08.2016

currently crushing...

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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9

Don't get me wrong, I'm digging the dog days of summer, but that doesn't mean I'm turning my back on all black everything. Happy Friyay lovelies!


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7.07.2016

{what's in my} tony awards june 2016 special edition glossybox

PRESS SAMPLE
Lips: LA Splash Lip Lacquer High Pigment Collection in RED CARPET | Hair: Sebastian Professional Dark Oil Styling Oil | Mascara: Icona Milano Emotion Allowed Mascara in BLACK | Hair: Sebastian Professional Whipped Creme | Tan: Tan Towel Half Body Classic Self Tan Towelettes | Nail Polish: SinfulColors Kylie Jenner Denim & Bling Matte Collection in ACID WASH | Face: Caolion Premium 02 Bubble & Cool Pore Pack Duo

Last month I was sososo excited to receive a complimentary GLOSSYBOX {because beauty-based subscription boxes are so my jam!}, so when another edition unexpectedly arrived on my porch for the month of June you know I went to town opening that baby in mere minutes!

For those of you who aren't familiar with GLOSSYBOX, it is a monthly beauty subscription service wherein you receive 5 deluxe size beauty products for $21 a month based on the personal beauty profile you fill out when you sign up.

While May 2016's box was a general conglomeration of bomb beauty essentials, the June 2016 box was a Tony Awards Special Edition that, IMO, captured the spirit / essence of an awards show so well! Sunkissed skin? Check! Red lips? Check! Look-at-me lashes? Check! Head-turning mani? Check! Glowing skin? Check! Killer hair? Check! Seriously obsessing over all of it; though the Kylie Jenner x Sinful Colors nail polish may be my favorite because...nails!

A textured baby blue shimmer? I'll take it! One thing I was unaware of when this shade showed up in my box: textured matte finish. Dealbreaker? So not! Acid Wash is v reminiscent of the Gumdrops Collection released by Nicole By OPI a few years back {which I loved}, so, of course, I've fallen hard for this beauty. Formula here is phenomenal. Though slightly thick, it is incredibly easy to work with {even for polish beginners}, and looks decadent on the nail. If you're looking for a baby blue hue with a little extra something something {sassy sparkle + texture}, look no further than this babe. Would I repurchase? Most def!


Though I coat my body in more self-tanner than I'd care to admit, I am capital P Petrified of using it on my face for fear of pore-clogging or turning some unsightly shade of orange that can't be concealed with clothing. That said, I was excited to try these Towelettes from Tan Towel as they seemed virtually fool-proof - not to mention non-messy. Ladies, ladies, ladies...these. are. bomb. One towelette can tan your entire bod {I stuck mainly to my face, neck, chest, shoulders}, and is literally the simplest tanning product to work with. It dries quickly {I applied it to clean skin}, doesn't fade or wash off in the shower, and looks so incredibly natural! I make the biggest mess when using mousse-based tanning products {we're talking ruining clothes, towels, and staining various parts of the bathroom}, so getting my tan on without having to deal with the horror movie-like aftermath was a total bonus. Would I re-buy? Heck, I already have them in my Ulta shopping cart!


Hair talk anyone? I've never heard of Sebastian products before finding two in my box, but I'm definitely down to try more. First up: the Whipped Creme! You guys, what you can't see in this picture is that the nozzle of this product looks exactly like the one found on edible whipped cream, and, for some reason, I love that! I don't use a ton of styling products, but this one smells divine, so I couldn't resist! Though a mousse, I used this as a dry shampoo on multiple occasions, and it allowed me to go up to three days without washing. I also used it for beachy waves hold/definition instead of hairspray {applying a small amount throughout damp hair before styling}, and it was awesome. I like the fact that it's lightweight and requires v little product for each use. Would I repurchase? I'm on the fence. I like it, but feel that I wouldn't use it enough to justify buying the full-size. For those with curly hair though, I think it's a great one to add to your basket.

As for the Dark Oil...for the record, I'm obsessed with hair oils; so even though this was a teeny tiny sample, it was one of the first things I tried. Like with the Whipped Creme, a little goes a long way. I applied this to damp hair from mid-shaft to the ends and loved how silky it made my locks feel; but the real draw is the fragrance: it smells like something Tom Ford would release - a scent that would appeal to males and females. Though the oil itself is thicker than a lot of others I've tried, it still feels lightweight, and really adds a gorgeous wash of shine to hair. A re-buy? Without a doubt! I honestly adore this, and need the full-size in my life like yesterday!


Drawing hearts is clearly not my forte, but this LA Splash Cosmetics Lipgloss in the shade Red Carpet is fire! I am loving how pigmented and glossy it is! One swipe gives you all of the color, and lasts for hours {even if you're eating and drinking}. I like wearing it alone, but it looks stunning over a matte lippy if you want even more pigmentation {and a little extra shine}. Saturday night I'm ready for you! Would I repurchase? I'm not a big red lipstick/gloss person, so this one will last forevs; but I would repurchase in another shade.


I'm a diehard Neutrogena gal when it comes to skincare products, but the presentation of this duo was so. cute. that I had to give them a whirl! I was skeptical about the claims that each pack would provide a different sensation: one hot and one cold, but when used properly, they actually did! I used the Blackhead Bubble Pore Pack first, leaving it on for 7 minutes after cleansing my face. OMG so fun. Why? It actually bubbles! That was a new experience for me, and I kind of dug it. I applied the Pore Original Pack after rinsing the Blackhead pack away. This one has a cooling effect meant to tighten skin and minimize pores. The cooling sensation can burn for a second, but overall feels nice. Would I repurchase? For myself, no, as I'm still happier with my Neutrogena; but I would def contemplate picking up a set for my sister who loves experimenting with new facial masks!


This mascara comes at the most perfect time because it's waterproof {hello summer splashing!}, and also fits the Tony Awards bill because what awards show is complete without tears? As a self-professed mascara hoarder, I have to admit that I really liked this one. It's buildable, so you have the ability to control the intensity of the color and volume; but it also adds a very natural-looking length if you want something to glam-up your peepers without looking fake. I used this multiple times over 4th of July weekend {i.e. lots of water time}, and it def lived up to its waterproof claims. My biggest ish with it is that it takes forever to dry, so it has a tendency to rub off on your upper eyelid, and mess up your shadow. Womp womp. Would I repurchase? No. While it does work waterproof magic, I prefer water-resistant formulas as they are easier to remove at the end of the day. Additionally, the dry-time is kind of a dealbreaker.


What was in your June 2016 GLOSSYBOX? Not a subscriber yet? Sign up here!


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7.06.2016

{fashion folio} boho bliss

boho bliss
Top: TOPSHOP Square Stitch Crochet Vest in BLACK | Shoes: Free People Sun Seeker Tall Gladiator Sandal in HONEY WHISKEY SUEDE {on sale!} | Sunnies: Quay Australia Cherry Bomb 60mm Sunglasses in ROSE GOLD / PINK | Shorts: TOPSHOP Floral Crochet Shorts in BLACK | Hair: Bumble and bumble Wavy, Windswept Hair (Anywhere) Surf Travel Set | Nails: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Nail Lacquer in FEATHERED | Lips: SEPHORA COLLECTION Rouge Cream Lipstick in CHARMER 19


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7.05.2016

OPI Retro Summer Nail Lacquer Collection Swatches + Review

PRESS SAMPLE
It has been far too long since I indulged in a little OPI, so when the Retro Summer Collection showed up on my doorstep right before my next mani {talk about timing!}, you can bet that I ripped that baby open in two seconds flat and had a little one-person polish party! The result? Well, you can see for yourself below, but I will let you in on a little something first: these are six shades that will keep you cool for the summer!

Sailing & Nail-ing is a Light Blue Creme. Can colors like this please be mandatory in all polish collections? For reals though, I cannot get enough of them - that light-yet-bright blue is just TDF. Sailing & Nail-ing was a total breeze to work with; however, the formula is thin, resulting in bald/patchy spots, so you def have to pile on the coats for full opacity. This is 3 coats.


Flip Flops & Crop Tops is a Bright Bubblegum Pink Creme. Okay, so this right here may be my favoritefavoritefavorite pink creme of summer 2016, and that's saying something because I have used many pinks over the past few months. Why is it my fave? It's bright, bubbly, and fun, and just feels straight. up. perf for the warmer months. Formula here is phenom. Yes, it's a teeny tiny bit patchy and sheer, but it's super simple to work with, and really builds beautifully. This is 3 coats.


Towel Me About It is a Sunny Pastel Yellow Creme. Yellow polishes rarely tickle my fancy, but there's something about Towel Me About It that is just. so. pretty. Not to mention perfection for summer days and nights! The formula here, though easy to work with, is thin, so you need to layer it on a bit to avoid patchiness and bald spots. This is 3 coats.


I'm Getting A Tan-Gerine is a Soft Orange Creme. Despite the fact that I'm Getting A Tan-Gerine is a soft orange, there's something about the shade that makes me think of Orange Creamsicle's {total summer staple, amiright?}. Out of the entire six-piece here, I'd have to peg I'm Getting A Tan-Gerine as my least fave, as I'm not digging how it pairs with my skintone. Nevertheless, it is a pretty one, and such an easy peasy shade to work with that I have to give it major props. Though sheer {possibly the sheerest of the bunch}, I'm Getting A Tan-Gerine is simple to apply and builds to a rich opacity in a flash. This is 3 coats.


SPF XXX is a Dusty Melon Orange Creme. That name doe! But seriously, I think I'm loving that cheeky moniker more than the color itself; though the shade is quite a stunner. SPF XXX is hard to pinpoint in terms of hue - at times it looks blood orange, but overall it reads dusty melon orange with a hint of pinky undertone. Either way, it is perfection for s-u-m-m-e-r. Formula is a breeze. SPF XXX has the best formula of the bunch, being thicker, and requiring less layers to reach opacity. This is 2 coats.


What's The Double Scoop? is a Light Pink Creme. Can we just take a moment to appreciate how perfect this name + color pairing is?! I mean, seriously, the. best. What's The Double Scoop?, while not being the most unique shade, is def one to have in your collection year-round as it's uber-feminine and office apropos; while also retaining that flirty feel. Formula here is, like the rest of the collection, thin; but builds nicely to a pretty opaque hue that gives you an insta-tan! This is 3 coats.


AVAILABILITY: ULTA.

PRICE: $10.00 per full-size bottle; or $14.50 for the 4-Piece Mini Set.


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7.04.2016

happy 4th babes!


cheers to bikini-filled beach excursions, bonfires, and cute boys!

Happy Happy!


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7.03.2016

links à la mode: the IFB weekly roundup {june 30, 2016 edition}

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Although I’m heading into a long holiday weekend, it appears that many of our bloggers this week are focusing on how to take summer style into the workplace appropriately. Street style is all well and good, but doesn’t always work for an office. Sidenote (and if you read last week you’ll know that I’m a little Nordstrom-obsessed) but I went shopping this week and thought thank god I don’t work in an office because everything in this store looks like I should just be stylishly brunching and then heading off to a music festival. And I get it, the boho, festival chic trend is hot right now, along with off-the shoulder tops but it was overwhelming how much those styles dominated an entire department store!

But I digress.

Aside from the off-shoulder fashion, and some help for the office-bound chickas, one of you went to a mermaid parade! Mermaids! And it looked fabulous. We just had a naked bike ride (NSFW!) go through our city and it actually does generate some creative if not essential fashion, but nothing like a mermaid parade! Which just made me think of this post I saw recently (aka Ariel didn’t know how good she had it).

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And without further ado – I bring you this week’s Links a la Mode.


Links a la Mode, june 30


 


SPONSOR: Shopbop Monique Lhuillier, Norma Kamali Swimwear, Wildfox Sleepwear, cinq a sept, Banner Day, JADEtribe, Crochet Swimwear, Flatforms, Phone Cases, Men's Jack Spade


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7.01.2016

july crush list!

july
1. fp movement I am super active, participating in a variety of hip hop and ballet classes, in addition to general cardio, so I am always on the lookout for cute activewear that can be worn in the studio or on the street. I have found exactly that in the Free People Movement collection. Though I'm basically coveting all of the movement things, my two current faves are the Movement Flashdance Crop in GREY COMBO {because Flashdance anything is bomb}, and the Movement Pique Wrap in BLACK {digging the ballet beautiful vibe of the aesthetic}. What's your activewear brand of choice?

2. hot sand Ever since falling for NARS' Hot Sand Illuminator, I've developed a hankering for Hot Sand everrrrrythang. It adds the most stunning glow to all complexions, and just feels fresh for summer days to nights. On my Hot Sand must list: the Hot Sand / Laguna Blush Bronzer Duo, Lip Gloss in HOT SAND, and The Multiple Stick in HOT SAND. Isn't it all so goddess glam?

3. mini backpacks I haven't carried a mini backpack since my Cher Horoqitz-worshiping days {Clueless anyone?}, but my summer has been full of day trips thus far, making minis my main squeeze for hands-free fun. I just ordered Rebecca Minkoff's Medium Julian Backpack in BLACK / SILVER HARDWARE {a Nordstrom exclusive}, and now I'm totally craving Pixie Mood's Kim Convertible Backpack in BLACK, and Sole Society's Mini Sadie Faux Leather Backpack in BLACK {so 90s}. Have you been bitten by the backpack bug?

4. tasseled hoops Hoops will forever be my jam, but I love a little tassel action for the summer months as they give off that festival feel; so when I spotted tasseled hoops you know I went a little cray. The hoop / tassel hybrid is playful and flirty {exactly what we seek for the summer}, and so perfect for making a splash on your next tropical vacay. My current crushes? BaubleBar's Coraline Drops, Sole Society's Hoop and Tassel Earring in LIGHT CORAL, and Noir Jewelry's Tassel Hoop Earrings in GOLD {30% Off!}. So chic, yes?


What's on your July Crush List?


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6.30.2016

#motd

Face Palette: e.l.f. Illuminating Palette {c/o} | Eyeshadow Palette: Too Faced Chocolate Bon Bons Palette {c/o} | Lips: Too Faced La Crème Color Drenched Lipstick in NUDE BEACH | Mascara: Rimmel London Wonder'lash Mascara in EXTREME BLACK {c/o} | Nails: Ciate Paint Pot in DOUBLE BUBBLEGUM | Blush: Jenna Hipp Cheeky Kiss Lip & Cheek Tints in HONEY KISS {c/o}

A super summer-inspired #motd this am! What are your plans today?


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6.29.2016

{beauty board} beachin'

Prep for your next beachside partaaay with these beauty essentials that will leave. you. sizzling!
beachin'
1. Urban Decay Beach Bronzer in SUNKISSED {$28.00}

2. bareMinerals bareMinerals Prime Time™ Foundation Primer in OIL CONTROL {$24.00}

3. GIVENCHY Hydra Sparkling Magic Lip & Cheek Balm in ROSY GLOW {$32.00} The sheer shade creates a one-of-a-kind color for each user.

4. FROMM Diane Oil Detangler Comb {$2.50}

5. FRESH Sugar Sport Treatment Sunscreen SPF 30 {$25.00} Necessary for protecting your lips, face, and eyes from those harsh UV rays!

6. Zinka Colored Nosecoat Waterproof Sunblock in HOT PINK, BLUE, and TEAL {$8.99 each} Channel those Venice Beach vibes with a funky neon stripe down the bridge of your nose that protects and inspires double-takes!

7. CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof Mascara in VERY BLACK {$7.99}

8. OPI Retro Summer Nail Lacquer Collection in SPF XXX {$4.99}


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6.28.2016

{fashion folio} coffee break

coffee break
Top: TOPSHOP High Neck Fringe Cami | Shoes: Marc Fisher LTD Adalyn Espadrille Wedge Sandal in ORANGE SUEDE | Hat: Sole Society Straw Panama Hat in NATURAL | Lips: L'OREAL Colour Riche Lipcolour in PINK FLAMINGO | Nails: OPI Infinite Shine 2 Lacquer in GIRL WITHOUT LIMITS | Lashes: Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Lashes Mascara | Bracelet: Kate Spade New York How Charming Chain Link Bracelet in SILVER | Jeans: FRAME Le Skinny de Jeanne Distressed Mid-Rise Jeans | Bag: Clare V. Genuine Calf Hair Cheetah Print Tote in LEOPARD | Cuff: Chan Luu Chloe Bracelet in TURQUOISE


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6.27.2016

NOTD: Essie Nail Polish in Nama-Stay The Night

Two coats of Essie Nail Polish in Nama-Stay The Night. Energetic Goa Blue Creme.

It's not often that you come across a super-saturated cerulean blue shade as stunning as this, so when you do you kind of have to add it to your stash pronto - and for good reason.

Nama-Stay The Night, aside from having one of the best polish names ever has an absolutely brilliant formula - being top-notch in density, opacity, and flow. The true icing on the cake though? No staining upon removal. Natch!


What nail color are you rocking for #ManicureMonday?

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6.26.2016

dreamy

dreamy
Free People Movement Dreamy Embroidered Bralette Top in WHITE and BLACK.

Obsessed with this bralette for high-intensity dance classes or chill nights out!


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6.25.2016

6.24.2016

currently crushing...

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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

The sun is shining and the weekend is calling. Happy Friday babes!


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