Showing posts with label express. Show all posts
Showing posts with label express. Show all posts

Sunday, March 14, 2010

The Less is More Conundrum

I've sort of been having a internal battle with myself lately.  I mean in a way I don't want to let go of my winter makeup routine, but I've been finding out that it is way too heavy for me, and honestly letting go of a few steps never hurt anyone.  So basically what I've been doing lately is moisturizer, sometimes primer (either Smashbox Photo Finish or Benefit's That Gal), then loose powder (I'm using a Cover Girl Pro Powder, me and my mom actually both like it, I got one for her too, good stuff) by buffing it in with a kabuki brush, NYC matte bronzer for the cheekbones, then NARS blush in Amour along the upper part of the cheekbone to the apples of the cheek, and lastly for the face Smashbox Eyeshadow single in Pronto makes a beautiful powder highlight on the highest part of your cheeks.  So the step i just left out was the foundation and concealer,  I mean I do use concealer sometimes (NARS duo in custard/ginger) but is a bit of a hassle, especially in the morning.  I know it seems like a lot of steps but it goes by quickly.  I was previously using Clinique's Superfit Foundation ($21) which I love, but I still think looks too heavy.  I'm on a quest now to find out how I feel about tinted moisturizer, the foundation alternative, or just bare skin.  We'll see :)  But the few prodcuts I wanna try out are Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer ($42-a holy grail item in the beauty world, this is a WELL loved product) and either the Smashbox Sheer Focus Tinted Moisturizer ($30) or the Clinique Almost Makeup SPF 15 ($21).  Seeing as there is a Clinique counter at my local Macys and that is the store closest to me, thats probably going to be my first test.  I'll keep you all updated on that as well.  On a complete side note, my Macbook is getting freaking dusty, the keys are all dusty, I think I'm going to have to get a cover for that too.  I find myself dusting it off every two seconds which is why it takes me forever to write anything, lol thats just my OCD.  I dont know why I had to rant about my recent foundation changes and stuff but it was just one of those things where you have to write it down somewhere and look back on it like oh yes this is the time i decided to change this up, I'm weird like that. haha also update on the eyeliner adventure, I was wearing the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Pencil in Zero (it came with that hall of fame set, retail price is $17) and that stuff did not budge on my waterline, I swear to you, it was like magic!  I'm putting it up as a real contender for the eyeliner crown, I know it runs a bit pricey so I'll definitely try to find a cheaper alternative to it,  I've heard good things about some Revlon Colorstay Eyeliners and even the Loreal ones, I'll see if I can test those out as well.  OH and another random side note: blazers and trench coats are freaking cute guys!  I was at H&M the other day, and they had this coral almost red trench coat for $49 minus $15 because they're running a coat/jacket promotion, and I am kicking myself for not getting it, it was beautiful.  A real spring time staple!  Another trend I adore at the moment are blazers,  I have one I love but it's just not good for everyday wear, Charlotte Russe and Rainbow all have really adorable on trend blazers for pretty great prices,  If your not one to shell out $200 for a blazer from Bloomingdales or Saks then check those out. H&M and Express have a few cute pieces as well.  H&M also had this Hello Kitty Sweater which was AMAZING, I had a dream about it, no joke guys, haha so thats what I'm going to be purchasing next time I step into the mall.  Just had to do a teeny baby rant about that.
urban decay-zero





charlotte russe roll up sleeve blazer ($32)

express luxury stretch strong shoulder jacket ($98)

images property of their respective owners! 

fun reads,
bella
ps: anna kendrick's makeup at the oscars was stunning!



Thursday, December 31, 2009

2010 sparkle.

So the new year is approaching us and everyone needs a few tweaks here and there, I've come across a few things that I think would spice up any outfit, brighten up a bleak day, and make most of a night out.  Here's to 2010!
1. Express Wool Belted Military Coat $80 - an awesome daily staple, structured, chic, and versatile, whats not to love?
2. Express Faux Fur Vest ($48) - a great piece that feels luxe for a steal!
3. Express Oversized Square Sunglasses ($12) - very cute, these adorable frames would work for a plethora of looks and come in three great shades.
4. Express Men's Cotton Military Vest ($16) - Comfortable and wearable, this vest works as a staple for the guy in your life and will compliment many of his layered looks.
5. Express Men's Graphic Flannel Casual Shirt in Plaid ($16) - Functional and fun, a really easy effortless look that any guy can pull off.
6. Too Faced Smurfy-Eyed Liquid Eyeliner ($8.75) - glitterly, and available in clear (which would layer over black liner perfectly!) and in the classic smurfy blue.  A fun flirty option for playing up the eyes ;)
7. A Broadway Show! (prices range for on-broadway hits start from $50 +) - May I suggest a classic hit like Wicked or The Phantom of the Opera, popular shows include Billy Elliot and Jersey Boys.  Anyway way you go, its sure to be a smashing success :)
Those are just some way to spice up the new year, and make it more memorable than the last, Happy New Year! (*all images property of their respective owners)
fun reads,
bella







   

p.s.: guilty pleasures to treasure, chase crawford, yum.