Current Curly Hair Favorites!

Hello beautiful Ones!

After a week of drizzly-rainy-gloominess the sun is finally shining and it just seems to make everyone and everything a little bit happier (I'm not complaining!). I thought that today I would give you an update on what hair products I'm currently using for my naturally curly hair.

For me, the goal is to keep my curls in check without getting that crunchy look or weighing them down. After I wash my hair and lightly towel dry I rub in a dollop of my Lush R&B Hair Moisturizer.  A little bit of this product goes a long way, so you don't need a lot! This moisturizer will work for all hair types, but it's especially good for curly hair because it adds a lot of moisture, which is something that curls crave. Also, the smell is AMAZING. Seriously, I could just stand in my bathroom and sniff this fruity scent forever (but I won't... because that would be weird). This one is on the pricier side at $22 for a 3.5 oz. tub, but it does last a long time. 

Next I want to add a little definition to my curls, so I use a small dime sized amount (remember, we don't want to weigh down the hair) of my Not Your Mother's Kinky Moves Curl Defining Hair Cream. Again, this product is moisturizing and smells fantastic. It also adds a little bit of hold, while still looking natural. And at only $7 a tube, this is a great bargain. 

If I am going to let my hair air-dry then I would just stop there with the products, but if I'm going to blow-dry and curl then I will spray my damp hair with my John Frieda Frizz Ease Go Curlier Heat Activated Spray. The idea behind this product is that you spray it on damp curls and then when you blow-dry the product is activated by heat. It does a great job of cutting down frizz (which is the main reason why I would normally try to avoid blow-drying). But you will most likely want to plan on defining your curls with your preferred heat tool after blow-drying. You can get this at most drugstores for around $9.99.

Lately I've been curling my hair exclusively with my flat iron. Once you get the hang of it, it's very easy and doesn't give you those dreaded clamp marks that are so easy to get from a curling iron. But, before I even touch my hair with the flat iron I want to protect it as much as I possibly can, so I spray on some of my Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray. Not only does this protect your hair from your styling tool, but it just makes the hair look smoother and keeps fly-aways at bay. Plus, you can get it for about $4! 

So there you have it: my current curly hair favorites! Have you tried any of these? Let me know in the comments. I'm going to go frolic in the sunshine now! :) 

XO- Brittney 

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November Beauty Favorites

Hello Beautiful Ones!

I don't know how it happens but every month I find myself sitting here and thinking "wait, is it time for a monthly favorites post already?" So I know it's three days late, but better late than never right? I would promise to do better next month but that would probably be a lie. :)

This month I've been loving all things shimmery and moisturizing.

Living Proof Nourishing Styling Cream- $15 (2 oz.)
As I've mentioned before my naturally curly hair is always in constant need of moisture, and that is especially true during the colder months. Lately I've been really loving this styling cream from living proof. You can get the small travel size for $15, but it really does last quite a long time. I just work a small amount of it through my damp hair after I get out of the shower.

Lorac Pro Palette 2- $42
I've had this palette since it came out in the summer. I remember really loving the Pro 2 when I first got it, but then it sort of just drifted to the back of my collection. I've only recently rediscovered it. The palette is 16 shades (8 matte, 8 shimmer) of really high quality shadows. I know the price tag is a little hefty at $42, but I promise you won't regret it. The colors are highly pigmented and long lasting.

Josie Maran Argan Infinity Cream- $10 (0.5 oz.)
I recently received a small travel size of this product as a beauty insider reward at Sephora and I've been really enjoying it. I have the worst time with dry skin during the winter, especially on my face. I just put a little of this argan oil cream on the dry spots on my face before I apply my foundation and it helps my makeup glide on smoothly. As you probably know trying to put makeup over dry flaky skin is a nightmare. This will help you avoid that whole mess!

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream in Light- $38
Some days I want moisture more than I want coverage, so on those days I skip the foundation and instead reach for this. I like BB creams, they're kind of like the ultimate multi-tasker. You could also layer this under your foundation, but I usually just wear it on it's own or with a little concealer.

Nudestix Magnetic Eye Color in Twilight- $24
I got this shadow pencil as part of the #GILTYLOVE Holiday Set at Sephora (you can read my whole review on the set here). All of the Nudestix products come in a handy little tin case and with a sharpener. These magnetic eye pencils have become my new go-to shadows. Not only are they super handy, but the lasting power is awesome and they are incredibly pigmented. This champagne color called Twilight is my favorite.

That's all I have for this month. As always, let me know what you guys have been loving!

XO- Brittney

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October Beauty Favorites

Hello Beautiful Ones!

We can officially mark down another month in the books! I'm guessing many of you are probably recovering from halloween festivities (mine was blissfully uneventful), so why don't we go through a calming little monthly favorites post shall we? Here are the beauty bits I've been loving this month:

Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer- $32
Along with the falling leaves and cool weather fall always brings me dry skin, so anytime I can find a product that will add a little moisture I'm a happy girl. This is the perfect face primer for the fall and winter months. Not only will your skin be perfectly prepped for your makeup, but the hydration lasts throughout the day. The texture is similar to a moisturizer, and there is a bit of a smell when it comes out of the tube but I don't notice it after it's on my face.

Maybelline Eyestudio Brow Drama in Soft Brown- $8
This is a new drugstore brow mascara from Maybelline, and I'm in love! I've been using this over my usual brow pencil. It does a great job of helping you shape your brows and then holding them in place. The hold is good and not crunchy. The brush is rounded at the end and makes shaping and application easy.

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black- $20
This is not a new product, but I've just recently developed a love for it. The applicator allows you to make an extremely thin line. The lasting power is awesome, I can put this on in the morning and it's not going anywhere until I remove it at night. If you're looking for a quality liquid liner, this is a great option.

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Eye Shadow in Rio de Rose Gold- $18
If you're looking for a gorgeous liquid eyeshadow, you might want to consider this one from Josie Maran. I was already a fan of the other Josie Maran coconut watercolor makeup products, so I was excited to try this one. The lasting power is good, and the color is stunning. Rio de Rose Gold is a beautiful bronze. Here is the swatch:

Covergirl Colorlicious Lipgloss in Candylicious- $8
I just picked this up recently at the drugstore, but I'm already loving it so I decided to throw it in with my monthly favorites. This is just a really simple and pretty pink gloss. Covergirl is advertising Colorlicious as a  non-sticky gloss, and I would say it fits that description. The gloss glides on easily and feels super hydrating on the lips. I grabbed the shade Candylicious (it was about the only one left on the display), which is a very pretty light pink. Here is the color swatch:

And there you have it: all the beauty things I've been loving this month! Let me know what you were loving during October in the comments.

XO- Brittney

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Coral Cheek Favorites

Hello Beautiful Ones!

We all have colors that we naturally gravitate towards. I never realized that coral was one of mine until I looked over my blush collection. I know that for some people the color coral can be a little intimidating, but I think you might be surprised to find that it is more flattering than you think! If you're now ready to jump in there and give coral a try, here are my three favorites:

Benefit Majorette Booster Blush- $28
I feel like I've been blabbing about this one for the last month (which is mostly true), but I can't help it I just love it so much. Majorette is a cream blush that can be worn alone or as a booster under your favorite blush. So if you're a little leary about coral you can take a small step by wearing this under your favorite pink. If you wear it alone the color starts out subtle, and then can be built up. The lasting power is great and as a bonus it has a really lovely citrus smell that will perk you up in the morning. And as a plus the packaging is adorable!

Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm in Robust Rhubarb- $21
I love Clinique's chubby sticks, so when they came out with a cheek version I was really excited. I'm a fan of anything that comes in a portable stick form (beauty on the run!). As soon as I saw this color swatched I just knew I had to have it. I just swipe it on my cheeks and then use a blush or kabuki brush to buff it out, but you could also use your fingers. It lasts well and is so easy to apply it's perfect for those days when I'm running late.

Josie Maran Coconut Water Color Cheek Gelee in Poppy Paradise- $22
This one looks extremely bright in the pot, but I promise you it is not going to turn you into a clown! Once again you can start out slow and then build up the color. Just like the Clinique chubby stick I apply the color with my finger and then buff it out with a brush. I love Josie Maran and her coconut watercolor makeup products and this one is no exception.

Well there you go! Now you can all boldly adventure out into the world of coral cheeks (or at least think about it.) Let me know in the comments if you have ever rocked a coral cheek.

XO- Brittney

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5 Sample Sized Products That Have Won Me Over

Hello Beautiful Ones!

Confession: I can tend to be a little fickle about my beauty products. Sometimes when I buy a new product I feel like it's the equivalent to finding my prince charming only to find out it was a frog (don't worry my cheesy fairytale reference quota has officially been reached for this post).

 As we all know sometimes the first impression you get from a product is not the same as your final feelings on it. It can really help to try a sample or travel sized amount of a beauty or makeup product before you actually buy the full size. This is especially true if it is a high end product that will be taking a pretty good chunk of your spending money. I'm fine with dropping money on great products... as long as I KNOW I'll love them. So today I'm sharing the 5 sample sized products that have completely won me over and convinced me that I'm ready to commit to the full size.

Benefit They're Real Mascara- $8 (0.1 oz.)
You can actually buy a deluxe sample size of Benefit's best selling mascara for only $8 (compared to the $23 price tag of the full size). You might have read this from me before, but I prefer to buy my mascara in sample sizes anyways. Why you ask? Because mascara really doesn't last long (it typically has a shelf life of 3 months) and I can get plenty use out of the smaller ones. Plus, I like to rotate my mascaras so I'm not just using one all the time. Small sizes allow me to mix it up more! This one is fabulous. My lashes are pretty long naturally so this just makes them stand out perfectly.

Living Proof Restore Mask Treatment- $12 (0.1 oz.)
I received this for free with a coupon at ULTA and now I'm completely hooked. You can buy the travel size for $12 (compared to $42 price tag of the full size). The Restore Mask is a conditioning treatment that you are supposed to leave-in for 5-10 minutes 1-2 times a week. I usually put it on right after I shampoo and condition then rinse it out right before I hop out of the shower. I have naturally curly hair so anytime I can add a little moisture I'm one happy girl. This is great and the little travel size has been lasting me for quite a while.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light- $16 (0.5 fl. oz.)
I've written before about how I am a complete argan oil convert. I've always thought that it would be weird and slightly counter productive to put oil in my hair or on my face, but I'm telling you to try it is to love it! This light formula from Josie Maran is perfect. I love it on my hair, on my face when I'm having a dry skin day, and to soften my legs after shaving. This small size is $16 (compared to the $48 price tag of the full size).

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion- $12 (0.2 fl. oz.)
I used to think that eyeshadow primer was a waste of time... boy was I in denial. A good eyeshadow primer can make just about any eyeshadow capable of lasting all day. Nothing's worse than achieving that perfect smoky eye and then having it slide off two hours later (that is only a slight exaggeration). This primer is fabulous, it has great texture and gets the job done. You can also get it in other formulas, but I prefer the original. You can get the little one, which lasts forever for $12 (compared to the $20 price tag of the full size).

Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Hydrator- $12 (0.5 oz.)
I tend to struggle with dry skin so whenever I can find a great moisturizer I'm extremely excited. I recently got this one as a free sample after making a clinique purchase and I am officially hooked. You can get this little travel one for $12 (compared to the $38.50 price tag of the 50 ml.). This moisturizer is extremely hydrating and works perfectly under my makeup. My only slight complaint is that it has a bit of an odd smell in the container, but once I put it on I don't notice the scent.

I feel like this post was a little long-winded, but I hope you were able to hang in there. These truly are some of my absolute favorite things right now. Also, they all make fantastic travel products for all of you jet setters out there (take me with you!).

Have a fantastic day beautiful ones! <3

XO- Brittney

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September Favorites!

Hello Beautiful Ones!

Whoah... am I actually writing my favorite things post for September IN the month of September?! Somebody hold me back! I'm slowly but surely adjusting to fall. The colder weather is definitely not my favorite but the cardigans, boots, and chai lattes are winning me over. This month my favorites consist of some loved beauty products and a few miscellaneous entertainment bits.

Beauty Favorites

Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette- $28

This product is the hip older sister of the original Naked Basics Palette (I can confidently say that as a hip older sister myself #humblebrag). Confession: I've never actually owned the original palette, but I have stolen it from my before mentioned sister several times. I've been really enjoying this new one. The colors lean to the cooler side and with more grey tones than the first one. I would say that if you are in desperate need of a hardcore basics palette (with more browns and a black) then you should probably grab the original, but otherwise this is just a really nice palette to have in your arsenal. As with most Urban Decay palettes the quality of the shadows is fantastic. Here are some more pictures of the shadows and some swatches.

The Body Shop Wild Argan Oil: The Radiant Oil for Body and Hair- $25

It seems like just about everyone is crazy about argan oil these days (I'm definitely a convert myself). I was a little reluctant of this trend at first because it seemed super counterproductive to me to put oil on either my face or my hair, but I have to tell that I've seen the light! So I was excited when I saw this new offering from the Body Shop. I've used this both on my hair and on my skin. My favorite uses for it are to tame frizz and flyaways on my hair, and to calm my skin after shaving. Also, I love that it comes in a spray bottle because it makes application a breeze. 

Benefit Majorette Booster Blush- $28

You can find my full review and swatch of this product here. But, the basic jist of this blush is that it can be used either on it's own or as a booster underneath your favorite powder blush to add an extra "pep" to your makeup routine (hence the adorable marching band theme of the packaging). The highlights of this blush are that it goes on creamy and then takes on a powder consistency, lasts well, and has a delightful scent. I know a lot of people have been concerned about the coral color of this blush, but I personally find it extremely flattering (however, this is a color I often gravitate towards). 

Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator- $12 (0.5 oz.)

I recently received this as a free sample after purchasing some other clinique products and I have to tell you that I'm in love! This is a fantastic moisturizer especially if you are plagued with dry skin. I use it every morning before I put on my makeup. The only con here is that it does smell a little weird while it's still in the pot, but I don't notice it once I apply it to my face.

Stila Lip Glaze- $22

This is a product I've had sitting in my makeup collection unused for awhile. I've only recently rediscovered it. This is a deluxe sample size in the shade Shortcake that I got in a Sephora value set that you can check out here. I love that it's long lasting and such a pretty shade. This is a gorgeous nude gloss that is perfect for fall. 

Miscellaneous Favorites

Music

PTX Vol. III by Pentatonix

Pentatonix is a five person acapella group that first gained fame for winning season 3 of NBC's singing competition show the Sing Off. They also have a massive Youtube following. I always adore their new album offerings and this one is no exception. It's a great mix of acapella covers and originals. One of my favorite tracks is a mashup of Sam Smith's Latch and La  La La which they have accurately named La La Latch. Even if you're aren't a major acapella fan I still encourage you to give this one a listen! You can download it on iTunes for $5.99 or grab the physical copy at Walmart for just $5.

Beggin for Thread (single) by Banks

This is a single that I have been completely obsessed with lately. The lyrics are smart and the beat is amazing. Prepare to have this one stuck in your head ALL DAY. 

T.V.

It's the time of the year for new and returning fall shows or as I like to call it: the season of endless new episodes clogging up my DVR. Instead of boring you with my endless list of shows I'm watching I'm just going to give you my two new favorites and two old standbys. 

Warning: there may be slight spoilers ahead (don't say I didn't warn you). 

How to get Away with Murder- ABC

This is arguably Fall's most buzzed about new show and I'm here to tell you that the hype is real. This is the latest offering from powerhouse Shonda Rhimes. I mean obviously this is Shondaland and we're all just living in it. The show follows law professor Annalise Keating (Viola Davis) and her students, who will do crazy things to get her approval (hint: that includes murder). 

Red Band Society- Fox

This is genuinely one of the cutest shows I have ever seen. There is so much heart here it is amazing. The show follows nurse Jackson (Octavia Spencer) and all of the kids she tends to on her floor at the Ocean Park Hospital in Los Angeles. It has a little bit of a Glee vibe (a group of misfits coming together to support each other). I promise you that you will laugh, cry, and generally be filled to the brim with emotions.

Scandal- ABC

If you aren't on the Scandal bandwagon yet then you need to seriously reevaluate your life choices (I say that with love). This is yet another Shonda Rhimes thriller that is in it's 4th season and it just KEEPS GETTING BETTER. Just about every episode leaves me screaming at the television. Seriously, you probably don't want to watch T.V. with me. 

Brooklyn Nine-Nine- Fox

I swear that Fox and ABC aren't the only networks that I watch, it just turned out this way. I just have so much love in my heart for this comedy. It follows Detective Jake Peralta (Andy Samburg) and his colleagues in Brooklyn's 99th precinct. This show had me hooked at the pilot and nothing has changed now that it's started it's second season. You should definitely binge watch if you need a good laugh or a new comedy. 

There you have it: all of the things I've been loving this month! Let me know what you've been obsessing over in the comments.

XO- Brittney

P.S. Here's a bonus picture of my cat Smokey trying to figure out why I'm taking pictures of my makeup on my kitchen floor (do you ever wonder if your pets are planning to commit you for mental instability or is that just me?). x

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5 Beauty Products That Will Help You Hang On to Summer

Hello Beautiful Ones!

This post is for all of you out there like me who are desperately clinging on to the last of the summer sunshine before fall completely takes over. I will happily swap out my tank tops and flip flops for cardigans and boots but you better believe that I'm going to hang onto my favorite summer beauty products until the bitter end. I've gathered up 5 beauty products that will not only remind you of carefree summer days, but can also be nicely transitioned into fall.

Marc Jacobs Honey Rollerball- $22
I really love buying perfumes in rollerballs because they are so portable. You can easily throw this little guy in your purse (or your beach bag if you're lucky) and you're good to go. Something about this fragrance just screams summer to me. It has a sweet and sunny scent. A few swipes of this and even the coolest fall day will feel a little warmer.

Jergen's Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer- $8
This is a year round love. I'm sure most of you have tried this one before, but just in case you haven't I'm going to rave about it a little. This is basically a great moisturizer combined with a light bronzer. Perfect for hanging on to that nice summer tan a tiny bit longer.

Not Your Mother's Beach Babe Texturizing Shampoo- $5
It is no secret that I am a firm believer in the Not Your Mother's brand of hair products (you can read all about my obsession here). When I first tried this shampoo all I wanted to do was stand in the shower and sniff the bottle (sorry for that mental image), but seriously you guys this stuff smells amazing. The best way I can describe the smell is coconuts and sunshine. If this shampoo doesn't transport you to the beach then I don't know what will.

e.l.f. Essential Shimmering Facial Whip in Lilac Petal- $1
e.l.f. is another favorite drugstore brand. When you compare the quality of the product with the price there is no rival in my opinion. This facial whip is a gorgeous shimmering highlighter to give you that gorgeous summery sun kissed look even on a gloomy fall day. Here is a color swatch:

Milani Baked Bronzer in Glow- $10
Once again, anything I can use to extend my summer color is a win for me. This bronzer is perfect because it's not too dark and just adds more of a shimmery glow than anything. This can also double as a great highlighter. Here's the color swatch:

Now we can all live in denial that colder temperatures are among us. And if you are one of the lucky ones who live in a place where it's always warm, can you send me some sunshine? I promise I'll adjust eventually. Stay sparkly beautiful ones!

XO- Brittney

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August Beauty Favorites

Hello Beautiful Ones!

I could swear that I just wrote July's favorites post a few days ago. Seriously! Where has this month gone? August is still typically pretty hot in Nebraska and it's been raining like crazy, but the start of football season has me thinking fall. So here are the beauty things I've been loving this month!

It's not a super long list this month. Like I said, it feels like I just did a monthly favorites post but there are a few new things I've been loving this month so lets just get right into it shall we?

e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator- $3
This one is a total beauty on a budget miracle. For only $3 you get a really great lip exfoliator that leaves lips really smooth and moisturized. This is great to use before putting on your lipstick because it really smooths out your lips so you don't get the lipstick settling into any dry spots. My lips have been a little dry lately so I've been using this before bed. And as a bonus the vanilla scent is heavenly!

L'oreal Infallible Blackbuster Liquid Eyeliner in Black 700- $8
I'm going to be honest with you, I wasn't really sure about this one when I first tried it. When you open it up you notice that the applicator is huge! It looks like a large marker, which I'll admit was a little intimidating. But now that I've gotten the hang of applying it, it has made its way into my daily routine. The large applicator means that you can easily swipe on one quick coat of liner for a nice thick line and be on your merry little way. It works really nice for a good cat eye or wing. Also, the lasting power is great! I put it on in the morning and then don't worry about it for the rest of the day.

Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek Color Balm in Robust Rhubarb- $21
I pretty much love any makeup product that comes in stick form because it means fast and easy. This is no exception. I was really excited when I heard that Clinique was reworking their famous Chubby stick into a cheek formula. I just swipe a line of it onto my cheek and then buff it in with a Kabuki brush, but I think you could easily use your finger too! I picked up the shade Robust Rhubarb which is a really pretty coral-y/pink. Here is a color swatch:

Mac Mineralize Eyeshadow Duo in Love Connection- $22

I'm obsessed with these mineralize shadow duos from Mac. The amount of sparkle is perfect and the pigmentation is great. As long as I use an eyeshadow primer before hand it stays on all day long. I like to use the lighter color all over my lid and brow bone and then blend the darker color into the crease and outer corner. Here are the color swatches:

Lorac Pro Palette 2 Eyeshadow Palette- $42

I'm sure you've probably heard about this one already so I'll try to keep it simple: LOVE. I'll be honest I never bought the first pro palette, but after this one I'll probably just have to bite the bullet and get it. The pigmentation is fantastic. Plus the colors stay put and blend well together. There are endless color combinations to be made. The quality of the shadows is just amazing, completely worth the price tag. 

Well there you have it, that's all of the beauty products I've been loving this month. Please let me know what you couldn't get enough of in August!

XO- Brittney

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Friday Favorite #4: Clinique Superprimer- Color Corrects Redness

Hello Beautiful Ones!

FRIDAY IS HERE! Don't you think all caps is appropriate? Today I'm sharing another one of my absolute favorite products with you all. I know I've talked about this one before, but it's so loved that I felt it deserved its own post. It's the Clinique Superprimer- Color Corrects Redness.

This is one of my absolute favorite primers. Primer is so important because it helps your makeup go on much more smoothly so you don't have to use so much of it. This one is especially helpful if you are dealing with any red patches or blemishes. Sometimes I use this on just the areas that need it (like on a patch of breakouts) or I smooth it all over my face.

One of my absolute favorite things about this primer is the texture. This might just be me but I like my makeup primer to have a little bit of a thicker texture, not smooth like lotion. It's very creamy, but not too heavy. It comes out of the tube yellow, but blends into your skin easily.

Clinique has a whole line of these Superprimers for many different skin issues, but I just particularly like this one. It's come in handy so many times whether I'm trying to cover up blemishes, sunburns, or just random red patches. Putting this primer under my foundation means that I don't have to cake on the concealer.

The price tag on this one is a little hefty at $27 a tube, but it does last quite a long time. Also, I suggest keeping your eye out for Clinique bonus time at department stores and on Clinique's website because you can get a whole set of samples that can really come in handy for traveling. Who doesn't love free samples?

Let me know if you've tried this primer!

XO- Brittney

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July Favorites!

Hello Beautiful Ones!

Another month and another post full of the things I'm loving lately. The summer months are very quickly flying by (we're already 6 days into August and I honestly don't even know how that happened). There will be leaves falling and football games being played before we know it (please don't leave me summer sun!). Fortunately for me, there's still a little summer left! Now let's get to the favorites:

Makeup & Beauty

Clinique Blush Brush- $29

This brush has been a long time favorite of mine. I love that it is so big and fluffy. I use it for both blush and powder foundation. Although, it is well used it has still held up well. I also just love the sleek love of the clear handle (even though that has nothing to do with the usefulness).

Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain in London Posh- $10

Can I just start by saying that the packaging on this one is stunning. Seriously, can we all just take a minute to enjoy the chic-ness? I love the sleek square bottle that fits easily in my purse and the applicator that makes touch-ups easy even if you don't have a mirror handy. Now on to the actual product: I love a good gloss, but especially one that will stay on my lips for more than a few minutes. This one is longwearing and super moisturizing, just as advertised. Also, it's not too sticky. A definite must have! I picked up the shade London Posh, which is kind of a peachy nude. Here is a color swatch:

Maybelline Define-A-Brow in Medium Brown- $6

I am always looking for a good brow pencil, especially from the drugstore because I'm all about the bargain! Lately I've really been enjoying this one from Maybelline. I like that it's long wearing, I can put it on in the morning and then not worry about it all day. I also love that the pencil itself is very small and thin so you can get into those little fine places on your brow. My only complaint would be that I don't find the little plastic comb on the end of the wand all that helpful, but it's not a big deal I just use another brow brush. At the end of the day it's totally worth the price! 

Milani Baked Bronzer in 04 Glow- $9

I'm going to be honest with you, I feel like I'm still trying to get the hang of bronzer. But I've been using this one lately to add a little extra glow and some very simple contouring. As you can see in the picture it comes with a cute little brush that fits in the compact under the bronzer which is handy for traveling but when I'm at home I usually use a Kabuki brush to apply it. Here's a color swatch:

e.l.f. Essentials All Over Color Stick in Persimmon- $1

I know I've talked about this one before, but I just can't get enough of it. This is a small little stick of color that can be applied all over your face, eyes, and lips. I've used this on my eyelids for a pretty shimmer on light makeup days, but lately I've been using it on my face daily as a highlighter. It's just a really pretty light shimmer that can be used for basic contouring. Here's the color swatch:

ULTA Baked Eyeshadow in Natural Beauty- $8

I picked up this baked eyeshadow at ULTA a few months ago because it was on sale and since then I've gotten a lot of use out of it. I really love wearing this with a little liner and mascara on my lighter makeup days for a really natural and pretty look. I sweep the lighter color all over my lid and then use the darker side for the outer corner of my eye and the crease. It wears really well all day long. Here's a swatch of the colors:

Benefit They're Real Mascara Travel Size- $8

I've said this before, but I just love buying mascara in travel sizes because mascara goes bad so quickly all you really need is a small one and that way you can save yourself some cash. This one just goes on really easily with very few clumps and really opens up my eyes. As you can see I've used this one so much the writing has started to rub off the bottle (the ultimate sign of a beloved product). This is a must-have!

Clinique Superprimer Face Primer in Color Corrects for Redness- $27

Again, I know I've talked about this one before but it's still one of my all time favorite products. I use this all the time when I'm dealing with any kind of redness whether it's from breakouts, a sunburn, or just irritated skin. Smoothing this over your problem areas before you put on your foundation will make the redness easier to cover up. You can use it as an all over face primer or just on the red spots. Definite lifesaver! 

Music & T.V.

This month I thought I'd throw in a few bonus favorites for you guys! So here are the things I couldn't stop listening to and watching this month:

Music

My taste in music is a little all over the board. This month I'm all about boys with smart lyrics. There are two new albums that I haven't stopped playing this month. 

1. In the Lonely Hour by Sam Smith
2. X (Multiply) by Ed Sheeran

 Seriously, both of those albums just make me feel so many feelings.

There's also a single that I can't stop playing. It's a country song, but even if you don't like country I think you should seriously give it a try because the lyrics are brilliant. It's A Guy Walks Into a Bar by Tyler Farr. I was just hooked after hearing the first 30 seconds.

T.V.

This month I've been all about an old summer T.V. favorite and a brand new guilty pleasure. Actually these are both guilty pleasures (whoops)!

The first is my all time summer fave: Big Brother. I know it's ridiculous, but that's what I love about it. If you aren't familiar with Big Brother it's a reality show that drops strangers into a house for an entire summer to compete for a half million dollars, oh and every single thing they do is recorded by cameras. You can guarantee that they all lose their minds and brilliant drama ensues.

My new guilty pleasure is Reckless. This is a law drama set in North Carolina. And it's chock full of soapy goodness and relationship drama. I'm all over this one. In my opinion good summer time dramas are hard to come by, but this one is pretty darn good.

Sorry this post got so long! Lots of lovely July things to talk about. I hope you all had a fantastic July. I can't wait to see what August has in store for all of us. Let me know what you all have been loving this last month.

XO- Brittney

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Summer Skin Favorites!

Hello Beautiful Ones!

It's no secret that summer is by far my favorite season (sandals and sunshine never fail to put a smile on my face)! Unfortunately though, my naturally pale skin doesn't always agree with my intense love for the heat and sun of summer. For the last several years I've been turning to Jergens for all of my bronzing/summer skin needs. So here are my current summer skin favorites from Jergens:

I've been using Jergens Natural Glow for a long time now. If you are looking for an easy, natural looking, light glow for summer you NEED to try Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer. I use the Fair to Medium formula, but if you have a naturally darker skin tone (or you just want an extra bronze boost) you can get the medium to tan formula. Over the years they have tweaked the natural glow formula to improve the scent. It has a very light smell that is pleasant and not overpowering which is refreshing for a bronzer. I start using this at the very beginning of summer, sometimes even in the spring. I apply the Natural Glow after I get out of the shower. Make sure when you are using bronzer you apply a little extra to the spots that may be a little drier like your knees and elbows so that the color applies evenly, also don't forget to wash your hands when you're done so you don't get orange hands! I've never had any problems with streaking from this product. This is a tried and true favorite that I recommend 100%.

Now on to a new favorite that I have discovered just this season: the Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream. Again, this cream comes in two different shades: All Light Skin Tones, and All Medium-Deep Skin Tones. Obviously I'm using the light one because I'm painfully pale. This cream is advertised as "a total body breakthrough that instantly hydrates and illuminates, and in 5 days evens, firms, and corrects." Now that I've built up at least somewhat of a glow from the Jergens Natural Glow I've been using this one to sort of even everything up. I tend to get terrible bruises all over my legs and I really feel like this helps to make them a little less noticeable. The texture is really creamy and lovely, the scent is light and fresh, and it's super moisturizing. This will help you even up your skin tone, but it doesn't necessarily bronze. I may have just found a new year-round favorite! 

Let me know if you've tried either of these, and I  hope you all are having a lovely and glowy summer! 

XO- Brittney

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Friday Favorite #3

Hello Beautiful Ones!

It's that time of the week again... FRIDAY! (I don't think all caps is inappropriate here). Last night I went and saw the country duo Thompson Square in concert and it was AMAZING. They sure know how to party! The point of this story is that I'm a little draggy today, but I'm due to share with you another one of my absolute favorite products so this week's Friday favorite is... Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion.

This one might not be a big surprise to some of you, but I just felt like I had to talk about it. This is by far one of the best eye shadow primers I have ever used. I never used to use primer for my eyeshadow (I was convinced that I didn't really need the extra step in my routine), but as soon as I tried this one I was completely hooked!

You can get this primer at Sephora, I like to buy the mini size (0.2 oz. for $12) because it's small and portable plus a little goes a long way. I've used this on everything from high end shadows like the Urban Decay Naked eyeshadow palette down to drugstore shadows and I've had great results with all of it. With this primer my shadow stays put, end of story. If you struggle with shadow sliding off your lids, or rubbing off by the end of the day I highly recommend trying this one out. I've tried a few different shadow primers but I just always find myself coming back to this one!

You can also get the primer potion in other formulas like anti-aging or eden which is a matte primer. The original goes on sheer nude and has a really great creamy texture. I like my primers to be a little thick for some reason, I just like it better than a lotiony texture.

The Primer Potion is great for the summer time when we all might be a little bit sweatier that normal (Shhh don't tell anyone!). This stuff will keep that eyeshadow on your lids where it belongs. Let me know if you've tried this one!

XO- Brittney

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June Favorites!

Hello Beautiful Ones!

It's that time again... a new month! But before we all fire up the grills and (safely) light off the fireworks, I'm going to share with you my favorite things for the month of June.

These products have been some of my prime summer staples this last month. I just can't get enough of the warm weather!

MAC Mineralize Eye Shadow Duo in Spiced Metal- $22
This has been my go to summer shade lately. The duo has a light champagne color and a darker rusty/bronzy (not sure if that is even a word!) brown. Both shades are shimmery and gorgeous. I've been wearing the lighter color all over my lid and then the darker shade on the outer crease for a really pretty and summery look. Here is a swatch of the color in natural light:

Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream in Light/Medium- $8

I've pretty much all but ditched my foundation during these hot months, instead I've turned to this little baby. BB creams are all the rage right now (you probably already know this but BB stands for beauty balm), and you can get them from a lot of different brands. I've really been enjoying this one from Maybelline. It basically acts as a tinted moisturizer, but you could also use it as a primer for your foundation if you want a little more coverage. I just like that it is light and simple for the summer!

Hard Candy All Glossed Up Hydrating Lip Stain in Tickled Pink- $5

I've written about this one before... Basically it's just a really pretty gloss stick. I love the color and it gives a really nice shine. It's not super long lasting though, so be prepared to re-apply. I like to throw it in my purse for touch-ups during the day.

Benefit Girl Meets Pearl Liquid Pearl Luminizer for Face- $30

Disclaimer: I don't actually have the full size of this product, but I got a travel sized one in a benefit sample box I recently bought from Sephora (you can find it here) and I have been LOVING it. Basically it's a liquid highlighter that gives your skin a really pretty shimmer. I usually apply it to my brow bone just below the brow and on the top of my cheek bones. Summer must have!

Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream for all Light Skin Tones- $12

I've been using the Jergens Natural Glow bronzing lotion for years now, so I got really excited when I heard that they were coming out with this new BB body cream. Jergens says that the BB Body "hydrates and illuminates instantly and evens, firms, and corrects in 5 days." Personally I don't use this every day, more like every other day. It's definitely not a miracle cream, but so far I've been liking it. It is very moisturizing and I do feel like it evens out my skin tone. If you're really going for the bronzer look I would stick with Natural Glow, but if a moisturizer is more your goal I would definitely give this one a try! As a bonus the smell is good too, not gross like some of the bronzers can be.

Sinful Colors Professional Nail Color in Mint Apple- $2

Sinful Colors is one of my absolute favorite drugstore nail polish brands because they are really inexpensive, long-wearing, and they have a large selection of colors. I love this minty green for the summer. It's just really bright and pretty, plus mint is really in season right now! Here is a color swatch:

Floral Hair Barrette 

I love my long, thick, and curly hair, but during the summer months it can get a little hot and heavy. This little hair clip has really come in handy, and I just love the cute floral print!

Owl Ring

I bought this little ring at the start of the summer, and I've been wearing it so much. I just love how it's cute and a little bit quirky. It's big but not too bulky, perfect to wear on my index finger.

These are just a few of my favorite things this month. Let me know what you were loving in June!

XO- Brittney

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