New Year's Resolutions | 2016

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2015 has flown by, and I find myself feeling as though the years go by faster and faster as I get older. While 2015 was a great year for me, I always want the next year to be even better. The new year usually comes with some form of new year's resolutions for most people, myself included. It can be challenging to decide what goals you want to conquer in the new year, and because of that I decided to share mine with you, in hopes of giving you some inspiration. 
When setting new goals, it's important to remember two things; make them realistic, and make them important. You probably won't make 10 million dollars, or loose half your body weight in 2016, and setting unrealistic goals like those, can really deter you from completing any goals at all. It doesn't matter how small something seems to someone else, as long as you are passionate and driven, and the goal is important to you, you can be proud of completing it.
My New Year's Resolutions:
1. Drink more water.  I'm so bad about drinking water, and it's so important for your health, so I've decided to make 2016 the year of water. My goal is to drink a gallon a day (which is 5 of my S'well bottles) and I think I can do it if I try hard enough. Overall, this is in trend with a broader goal of mine, not just for the new year, but in general, of living a more healthy lifestyle.
2. Be more active.  On the same note, health and fitness have become really important to me over the past few months and I really want to get in great shape during 2016. I've struggled with body image issues my whole life, and while I know I'm by no means over weight, working out has become therapeutic for me, and I've decided to really make it a prominent aspect of my life for the new year.
3. Continue working towards a stronger blog presence.  While I've had this blog for about two years, this past year I feel like I really found my voice. I've had so much fun connecting with you all, and because of that, my goal is to go 12 whole months with 3 blog posts a week! I want to be able to bring you high quality content that is interesting and helpful, but also fun!
4. Begin planning for a backpacking trip. Traveling has always been something I've wanted to do but I've never considered it seriously until now. As I near the end of my college career, the adult world is daunting, and before I settle down into a "big-girl" job, I want to take the time, while I can, to explore the world. Whether it be a month or a year, I haven't decided yet, I want to push myself to go out of my comfort zone, and explore new things. Travel like this takes lots of planning and preparation, and because of that I'm hoping I can spend 2016 planning, so that in 2017 I can travel.
5. Read more.  Reading for fun always seems to be the first to go when I'm busy and I want to change that this year. I've had a list of books I've wanted to read for a while and I plan to tackle them all in 2016. First on the list is Liane Moriarty 's The Husband's Secret. I just have to remember, I have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyoncé. 

That's it! I hope these goals inspired you to come up with some of your own and make 2016 your year! 

My Favorite Planners

2015 is coming to an end, which means it's just about time to get a new planner. If you're anything like me, you need a planner to keep your life in order. I've tried using the electronic calendars on my phone, and it just doesn't work for me. Because of that, I wanted to share some of my favorite planners, incase your looking to get a new one.

1. Lily Pulitzer Planner  - Functional and girly, I've gone through a few of these planners. They come in a variety of sizes which is convenient for the girl on the go. ( $36)

2. Kate Spade Planner - This planner is the smallest of the bunch, which is great for someone who doesn't need to write a bunch of stuff down. I love the cover, and think it would be a great every-ay planner. ( $40)

3. Geodes Life Planner - This is the planner I'm using right now, and it's by far my favorite. It's versatile, durable, and customizable. If you're serious about staying organized in the new year, this is a worth while investment. I have it in turquoise.  ($50)

4. Emily Ley Planner - Another girly planner, but this one is a little more subtle. The style is very similar to that of the Lily Pulitzer and Erin Condren planners and would be great at keeping you organized and on-task. ($58)

2015 Holiday Gift Guide For The Beauty Junkie

1. Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette - This has quickly become my favorite Naked palette. It's versatile and amazing quality.
2. Too Faced Chocolate Bon Bons Palette - A new cult favorite. The colors are great and so is the packaging!
3. Drybar Gift Set - Every girl needs a good blowdryer, and this set is the perfect way to gift her with one.
4. Becca x Jaclyn Hill Highlighter - Champagne Pop has become my favorite highlight and it's something I think every beauty junkie needs.
5. Flowerbomb Gift Set - A holy grail scent of mine. I've met very few girls and women who don't love it.
6. Christian Louboutin Nail Polish - A splurge for sure but could be perfect for the nail polish obsessed - functional and collectible.
7. Sephora Collection Brush Set - This would be a major splurge, but could change a beauty junkie's makeup game. Sephora brushes are amazing quality and this is the mother load.
8. Beauty Blender - Everyone who wears foundation or concealer needs a beauty blender, period. The more beauty blenders, the better.
9. Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Soufflé - Great for the beauty junkie who lives in cold climates and loves to pamper herself.
10. YSL Volupté Sheer Candy - These are amazing gloss sticks, and my favorite shade is Dewy Papaya. It keeps your lips hydrated and glossy, without being sticky, plus they smell heavenly.
11. Guerlain Terracota Bronzing Mist - This would be perfect for the girl whose traveling somewhere tropical over the holidays. No makeup needed, just this amazing bronzing mist.

2015 Holiday Gift Guide | Stocking Stuffers for HIM

1. Mophie Power Station - I know so many guys (and girls) with this and they absolutely love it. Perfect for the phone obsessed.  2.Beats in Ear Headphones - Headphones are a must for everyone, and these are amazing quality. 3.Victoronix Swiss Champ Pocket Knife - If the men in your life are the hands-on type, this is a great functional stocking stuffer. 4. Mini Dots Pocket Square - For the fancier man; fun patterns are a great pop of holiday fun! 5. Smile Print PJ Boxers -  These are fun & functional! A serious win-win. 6. Gamago Gnome Stylus - Awesome for the creative tech. Couldn't be cuter. 7. Marled Cable Knit Scarf - If you live in a cold climate, this is a must. 8. WORD Camo Notebook - Great for the guy who needs a little organization in his life.  

Jewelry on a Budget | Stella & Dot + GIVEAWAY!!

Jewelry is something that can really break the bank when it comes to gift giving - but it doesn't have to. I've partnered with Stella & Dot to share some amazing holiday deals on great quality jewelry. Keep the ladies in your life happy and on trend by shopping Stella & Dot this holiday season! The best part is, that for a limited time you can get $25 in Dot Dollars for every $50 you spend! Which makes these picks the gifts that keep on giving! I've selected some of my favorite pieces to share with you in the hopes that you can check a few people off your holiday list 
Use this link to shop my favorites: http://www.stelladot.com/ts/xadc6

1. Arrow Wishing Bracelet: Super cute and super inexpensive, it's a win-win ($19)
2. Sutton Necklace - A statement necklace with endless possibilities($128)
3. Signature Engravable Bar Necklace - A personal touch makes this necklace extra sweet ($59)
4. Pavé Sphinx Ring - On my wish list, perfect for almost any outfit($29)
5. Pavé Chevron Gold Ring - Again, super versatile and stylish($29)
6. Maylee Ring Gold - Adjustable for any finger length ($29)
7. Renegade Cluster Bracelet - Edgy yet chic ($59)
8. Pavé Triangle Ear Jacket - Spices up anyone's ear, perfect for holiday festivities ($49)
9. Lightning Studs - Perfect to add a fun flare to your jewelry game$19
10. Déjà Vu Double-Sided Studs - Another versatile piece, so in love ($39)

Stella & Dot has been nice enough to offer one of you the chance to win a wishing bracelet of your choice! All you need to do to enter is follow me on Instagram @dahliapadron and comment on my giveaway picture with one of your holiday wishes & an email where you can be reached! Best of luck! Love you all! 


Disclaimer: I am not receiving any monetary compensation from Stella & Dot. All thoughts and opinions are my own!

2015 Holiday Gift Guide | Stocking Stuffers for HER

1. Wildfox Morning Person Eye Mask - For the light sleeper in your life who needs to catch up on beauty rest
2. Kate Spade Glitter Card Holder - Great for a girl on the go who only wants the essentials with her
3. Joe Malone Red Roses Bath Oil - Luxurious, perfect packaging, smells like heaven - wins all over

4. Color Pop Trippin Set -  Amazing quality lip sticks at an even more amazing price

5. Ollo Clip 4-in-1 iPhone Lense Clip - For the girl who loves a good quality selfie

6. Fuzzy Pom Pom Key Chain - This makes finding your keys a lot easier, I need it in my life

7. Real Techniques Bold Metal Essentials - Great quality brushes with super sleek, festive packaging

8. Philosophy Amazing Grace Ornament - Such a classic scent, perfect for any woman at any age
9. Fresh Sugar Rosé Lip Treatment Ornament - Best lip balm ever, plus the packaging is the cutest
10. Forever 21 Fuzzy Socks - Because socks are better when they're fuzzy
11. Stella & Dot Pave Wishing Bracelet - Understated and timeless, great to stack with other bracelets
12. M.A.C Holiday Pigment Set - Great for festive makeup, it would take years to go through one of  these tubes

2015 Holiday Gift Guide For DAD

Black Friday is right around the corner and these are some of my gift ideas for all the dads in your life!
1. Beats Pro Headphones - Perfect for any guy in your life who loves to listen to music or stream movies. These have amazing sound quality and are super sleek and stylish. G has had a pair for almost 3 years! 

2. Fit Bit 'Surge' - If you're getting mom one, why not get dad one? This model is a little different than the one I recommended for mom's, but would be perfect for the active dad!

3. Happy Socks Gift Box - Does your dad love socks? Or need socks? This is a fun way to give them to him! You can choose any pattern or print you think he'd like. 

4. Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success - If your dad is a sports fan, this could be perfect for him. This book has toped the charts across various categories and is considered one of the best sports books of all time.

5. L.L. Bean Flannel Robe - This would be great for any dad of any age. This will keep him warm and festive as the temperature drops. Plus it would be great to wear to unwrap presents!

6. The Tie Bar Large Style Box - Ties are something men tend to collect, even if it isn't on purpose. Add a few to your dad's collection by gifting him this adorable tie set.

7. P.J. Salvage Transport Pants - Another comfy gift. If your dad loves cars, this is a fun way to let him know you didn't forget without having to surprise him with a mustang.

8. Tiffany's Classic Money Clip - This is a really special gift, and it wont break the bank. You can even have it engraved with your dad's initials to make it really special. It's something he'll have forever.

9. UGG Men's Moccasins - G lives in these. I don't think I'd survive a winter without moccasins, and if your dad doesn't already have a pair, I highly recommend these. 

10. Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker II - This could bring some technology into your dad's life that's functional and fun. Even if he isn't a tech wiz, these speakers will let him listen to his favorite music anywhere he wants!

2015 Holiday Gift Guide For MOM

I'm usually not a Christmas before Thanksgiving kind of person, but I know a lot of people like to get a jumpstart on their holiday shopping so I wanted to share some gift ideas for the moms (or soon to be moms) in your life. 

1. Longchamp Lepliage Neo Large Tote - I have 5 of these bags that I've accumulated throughout the years and they're really the best. They're affordable, sturdy, and fashionable. I've shoved so many things into them between traveling and moving and they've held up perfectly. Longchamp will repair the corners of the bags free of charge for life and can replace the straps for a small fee (I think it's maybe $40 but I'm not sure). This bag is perfect for the working mom, traveling mom, and fashionista mom.
2. Kate Spade Trinket Tray - If you're mom is anything like mine, she spends half of each day looking for her glasses. This adorable trinket tray will give her motivation to keep them in the same space, while also giving her bedside table a sweet girlish touch.
3. Tummy Butter For Stretch Marks - Sometimes it's hard to remember that a mom-to-be still needs some momma goodies. Stretch marks are something most women dread getting, and will go to any length to avoid. This tummy butter is raved about by pregnant women around the world and would be a really thoughtful (and useful) little gift. 
4. Fitbit Charge - Fitbits are all the rage, and if your mom is wanting to get back in shape, or already lives a fit lifestyle, this could be the perfect gift. There are various models, but this is my favorite, and it's the one I think is most 'mom-friendly.'
5. Agate Coasters - I am absolutely in love with these coasters. I think they're stunning and would be perfect for any mom that loves home decor. They come in a ton of colors and can be found almost anywhere, which means you can pick the ones that fit your mom the best.
6. Caudalie Premier Cru Anti-Aging Set - Beauty products are something my mom never wants to splurge on, so holiday season is the perfect time to get her something she wouldn't ever get herself. This anti-aging set from Caudalie is perfect for mature skin and made of all the best ingredients.
7. PJ Salvage Ski Jammies - PJ Salvage jammies are my favorite, and this red pair is super festive, you could get your mom a pair to wear for Christmas morning (or whatever other holiday you celebrate). You could even get a matching pair for yourself and your siblings. 
8. Diptyque Candle in Gardenia - I'm a huge candle buff, and Diptyque candles are some of my favorite. They're pretty pricey, but make a really beautiful gift, and if your mom is someone who loves candles, this could be perfect for her.
9. Joy of Cooking 75th Anniversary Edition - This is a great gift for the chef-mom. This is the holy grail cook book and if you're mom loves being in the kitchen this would be awesome. There are more recipes in this book than she'd ever have the time to cook.
10. J. Crew Gemma Flats - Every mom can rock a good pair of flats. They're comfy, cute, and practical. This specific pair are timeless and appropriate for any mom of any age. They come in tons of colors and patterns, so if plain black isn't what your mom is into, I'm sure there's a pair you can find that she'll love.

My Favorite Photo Editing Apps

Instagram has taken over the social media world, and as a result photo editing apps have too. There are thousands available in the app store and it can be overwhelming when you're just looking to try something new. I've tried a ton, some of which I've paid for and some that I haven't, but I've only kept a select few on my phone. Here are my top picks:

• Facetune: I use this app in almost all of my pictures. It has an amazing whitening feature that lets you make your whites whiter (including your teeth!). I love this because it makes the images appear crisper and higher quality. This app also has a great feature that lets you shrink or enlarge aspects of your photo - this is especially great for stubborn fly aways that can ruin pictures!
• Afterlight: This app is my favorite for filters. I prefer these over the ones Instagram itself has to offer, especially the washed out filters. There are additional filters you can buy within the app itself, although I myself haven't done that.
• VSCO: This is my second favorite app for filters and I find myself using it when I don't use Afterlight. There is a wide array of filter options which I like, and it allows you to 'memorize' your favorite filters, which allows you to easily go back to them.
• Faded:This is another app that has awesome filters. These are more on the artsy side, in the sense that you can make your photos appear 'scratched' or 'cloudy' as apposed to the generic altering of colors.

Back in Town | Mini Life Update

Hello Everyone!  It's been a few weeks since I last posted something for you guys - My work schedule has been insanity. I was out of the country for a week and then only had one day off before I jumped right back into my full-time work schedule. But, now that everything is settled and I've gotten to rest a little I'm ready to get back in the groove of things. I'm going to be posting twice a week as usual (this week there will only be one). I have an insane amount of empty products so I'm thinking that will be the next post, but if there is something else you're wanting to see instead, leave it in the comment below.  Miss and Love you 

#SpringCleaning | Organizing Your Closet

I recently moved out of my dorm at school and into a new apartment, which meant tons of packing and unpacking. While my clothes were pretty organized at the beginning of the move, things got very hectic and messy and my closet ended up being really unorganized, which drives me nuts. While I was organizing I thought it would be helpful to share the ways I keep my clothing organized and maximize the space I have. 

The first thing I recommend doing when Spring cleaning your closet is getting a new set of hangers. Having a set of matching hangers makes a big difference in how your closet looks and can make you feel a lot better about looking through it each day. I chose these black ones from Bed Bath & Beyond, but you can pick any color or type that best suites your personal style. After you've gotten the hangers you want, start by putting the items you won't be using for the seasons to come into storage. I put my winter coats and fur vest into a plastic container and stored them for the upcoming fall/winter to make some more room for seasonal items.

I like to organize my closet a few different ways; first by item type - sleeveless tops, short sleeve tops, long sleeve tops, pants, skirts, dresses, etc. - and then by color within each section; starting from white and going to black. I also like to put all of my business and formal attire separate at the back of my closet. To save space in a small closet like the one I have, I purchased the grey foldable boxes that are on the top shelf of the closet - also from Bed Bath & Beyond. They come in a variety of colors and are very affordable. I got a pack of four, but I've been using three, and while they aren't the most durable, they get the job done. I considered putting labels on the boxes but I didn't like the way it looked; you can of course label them if you want.  I used each box for a different type of item, one for purses, one for sweaters, and one for jeans and leggings. 

The clear containers on the floor are from the container store and are really only there because they are easy to travel with between my home and my dorm. They can be really useful for organizing hard to store or smaller items - I use the smaller ones for nail polish, vitamins, medicine, and light bulbs/batteries, and the bigger ones for non-perishable food items that I have multiples of and beauty/skincare multiples.

As you can see, having organized my clothes the way I mentioned makes a big difference. While my closet may not have been that messy to begin with, it has been before, and this is method that has never failed me. For extra storage, I added 6 over the door hooks, which are amazing for hanging things like bras or jackets, even the current purse you're using. I hope this was helpful - Happy Spring Cleaning

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2015

Mother's Day is quickly approaching so I thought it would be helpful to give you some ideas of cute things to get the special moms in your life ❤

1. Rebecca Minkoff Dex Card Case - Card cases are not only functional but they're really cute. I especially like this one because its really spacious and snaps shut. It also comes in a sky blue but I think seafoam is a gorgeous color for spring and summer.

2. Diptyque Candle - Candles make great presents and you can't go wrong with Diptyque. All of their scents are amazing, especially Roses and Gardenia.

3. 'Mom' Pendant - You don't need to break the bank to get your mom a cute piece of jewelry. This 'Mom' pendant is simple and nice and has a really sweet message behind it. It can easily be worn everyday and mixed in with other jewelry, so you should feel confident it will get some serious use.

4. Tory Burch Gift Set - This perfume smells like heaven. It is just the right blend of fruity and floral. I think it would be age appropriate for any mom and it lasts a really long time on the skin. In my opinion gift sets are the best way to do perfumes, you get the most bang for your buck and super cute packaging.

5. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream - Good skin care products are always nice presents because women usually don't want to splurge on themselves. Bobbi Brown has AMAZING skin care products and this face cream is great for creating a more youthful hydrated appearance.

6. 'You Are My Mom' Mug - Funny and functional, what's not to love? If your mom is big into coffee or tea you could pair this cute mug with some of her favorite flavors of either to make a cute little set.

7. Arthur George 'Milf' Socks -Mother's Day presents don't need to be serious or expensive. A thoughtful and funny mug can definitely do the trick. I usually tend to go this route for my Mom because she's also one of my best friends.

8. Essie Nail Polish - Nail polish is always something I can never have enough of. Essie has a really great Spring collection available and if you pair it with a gift certificate for a mani and pedi you have a really sweet, inexpensive gift.

9. Kitchen Aid Mixer - This one is more of a splurge but think of it as a present for you too. If you mom has great tools int he kitchen she's more likely to make yummy things for you and your family. I've been coveting this mixer for years and think I might break down and get it sooner rather than later.

Product Review | FitBit Flex

In recent months there have been tons of fitness bracelets hitting the market and it can be challenging deciding which one is right for you. I didn't do any research before I bought mine, but I'm really happy with the choice I made. I've had my FitBit Flex since September, so I can definitely give it a good, well-rounded review. Ever since I've gotten it I've felt more motivated to be active on a daily basis. This past summer I lost about 15 pounds, and ever since I've been trying really hard to keep the weight off, and this has definitely helped. The challenge of meeting my step goal each day keeps me accountable and off my butt! 

I've found it extremely easy to use and comfortable. It connects via bluetooth to your computer, your phone and with MyFitnessPal which is an app I use to track my meals each day. At first I was a little hesitant to wear it to bed, but I got used to it in no time and feel naked without it. I even wear it in the shower because its water proof. Whats great about is that its customizable, you can pick any color you want and adjust your step goals to meet your specific needs. I have the standard black one, and I stack it with jewelry and it looks great (in my opinion). I initially began with a step goal of 8,000 steps a day, and for the past few months I've bumped it up to 10,000. If you're looking to engage in a healthier lifestyle I definitely recommend getting it. The $100 price tag may seem like a bit much, but its one of the more affordable ones on the market, and if it encourages you to be active, I think it's worth it. Buy yours here!

Netflix Series Favorites

I am VERY addicted to Netflix, and with summer right around the corner I thought it would be a good idea to share some of my favorites. Free time = Netflix marathons in my book. 

P.S. These are in no particular order, I love them all.

1. Gossip Girl - Gossip Girl is a show that follows a group of New York's Upper East Side elite as they go through their fabulous and dramatic lives. Essentially the show is about how Blair Waldorf is a goddess and she can do no wrong. I was in actual tears when the show ended and wish it could have gone on forever. If you love drama and fashion and all around perfection, this is a must watch. #TeamBlairForever

2. One Tree Hill - An oldie but a goodie. OTH is similar to Gossip Girl in the sense that it's about a group of teenagers, but it's much more accessible. You really feel like you could be a part of the show. It has the perfect amount of drama and seems perfectly realistic. Brooke Davis = life goals.

3. The Walking Dead - This is easily the best show on television right now. I had always heard the hype and it wasn't until the end of December that I started watching it with G (the boyfriend), and we caught up by mid January. The storyline follows ex-policeman Rick Grimes in post-zombie apocalypse USA. The drama is amazing, the acting is amazing, and it has truly made me want to go out and kill 'walkers.' If you haven't gotten on the bandwagon, please do.

4. Son's of Anarchy - JAX TELLER. Really this is all that matters. The show centers on the Son's of Anarchy biker gang, but really all you need to do is look at Charlie Hunnam in all his glorious perfection and you'll immediately fall in love. The acting is beyond phenomenal and you can't stop watching it. Once again, because I'm a weirdo, I cried during the last episode because I felt like the club was my family, please don't judge.

5. Gilmore Girls - Lorelai Gilmore aka the hottest mom alive is what makes this show what it is. I used to watch it when I was a younger, with my mom, but I stopped after a few seasons. I recently re-watched the whole thing, and fell in love with it all over. The acting is amazing, and once again I was completely emotionally attached to the characters. Long story short, Luke and Lorelai end up together, Rory is single once again, and Suki is the best friend I wish I had.

6. Friends - Who doesn't love Friends? Rachel, Phoebe, Monica, Joey, Ross, and Chandler - there isn't a bad egg in the bunch. It's the perfect mix between emotional and hilarious. Every episode made me laugh, and only some made me cry. Everything turned out the way it was supposed to be, and I appreciate the writers giving everyone a happy ending.

Honorable Mention: True Blood, Weeds, and Grey's Anatomy- True Blood isn't on Netflix, but Weeds  and Grey's Anatomy are. Grey's is still currently on tv, and that's why I didn't include it. If you haven't watched them, you need to ❤

Still Alive

It's been way too long since I've last posted something on my blog, and I've missed it so much. I've been really bad about setting time aside each week to write something, and I've made myself a promise that from now on, no matter how busy I am, I'm going to do it. It's easy to allow your schedule to get hectic and forget about taking time to do the things you love. Connecting with you and talking about all the things that make me happy is definitely one of them. I have a few posts I'm working on, so keep an eye out for one in the next few days. If there is anything specific you want to see here, whether its a product review, beauty tips, school tips, even outfit posts, definitely ask! Talk to you soon 

App of the week | Pact

This seems like a super random post, and it kind of is, but I thought it would be cool to share this with everyone. I recently heard about the 'Pact' app from a friend and decided I would give it a try. The idea is that you "get paid for living healthy, by members who don't." It asks you make a 'pact' with yourself about one or all of three things; going to the gym, keeping a food log, and eating fruits and veggies. You commit to a certain number of days you're going to go to the gym each week, a certain number of fruits and veggies you're going to eat each week, and how many days you will log all of your meals. The whole point is that you get paid a couple of dollars every time you complete your 'pact.' The catch is that when you miss a day, they charge you either $5 or $10 depending on which you choose. To make sure you aren't cheating the app tracks your location to make sure you really go to the gym AND you need to be there for at least 30 minutes for it to count. You also have to take pictures of your fruits and veggies and other people who use the app vote on whether or not they should count.

I've been making a huge effort to get in shape and start eating healthy so this app was right up my alley. I don't know about you, but I'm definitely not interested in paying $5 for missing either of the 3 things, so it's great motivation to keep myself on track. Even if you aren't wanting to be extreme and live a super healthy lifestyle, this app is perfect for you too. If you want to start out eating one fruit/veggie a week, or going to the gym once a week, you can do that too. It pays you to do the things you'd normally be doing anyways (or at least that you should be).   

My Shopping Philosophy | Being a Fashionista on a Budget

When it comes to shopping it can be difficult to decide how to spend your money most efficiently. Especially walking into any big department store, the choices can be overwhelming. I've gotten asked a lot, what my 'shopping philosophy' is, and that's what I'm going to share with you today. My motto is, 'I don't mind spending money, I mind wasting it,' and trust me, there is a difference. There are certain items worth the splurge, and some that aren't, but figuring out which is which can be tough. It's crucial to realize that you don't need to sacrifice quality or style to save a few dollars. 

Breaking it Down

If you're anything like me, it can be hard to control yourself when shopping, especially when you feel like you need everything. Realizing that there is nothing wrong with treating yourself will help in the process. If you've been coveting an item, and you've thought about it for a while, don't feel guilty spending money on it. That being said, make sure it's worth it. A few questions I ask myself before any big ticket purchases are; Will I have this forever? Will I love this forever? Can I get something of the same quality for cheaper?  The number one thing I stick to, is not letting myself pay for a name on a label. Of course designer brands are wonderful, but when it comes to certain items their quality is no better than their non-designer counterparts. We no longer live in a world where quality is unattainable on a budget. I decided to separate the things I believe you should splurge on and things you should save on into two lists.

❤ ❤ ❤

Splurge

• Jeans - Good quality denim will save you money in the long run, because it more often than not lasts longer. Get yourself 1 or 2 good pairs of jeans instead of 4 inexpensive pairs. Remember; quality, not quantity in this case.
• Shoes - This could go either way, there are certain shoes you don't need to splurge on (sandals, sneakers, heels) but I think it's important to have one really good pair of boots if you live up North like I do. Cold months make up most of the year, and by investing in a pair that are good quality, you won't need to replace them every season.
• Skincare - There are some skincare items you definitely don't need to drop big bucks on; toner, exfoliant, or masks, but I think investing in a good moisturizer is essential. Skin isn't like hair, you can't just cut it off when it gets damaged. And because of that, it's extra important to take good care of it from a young age. Moisturizing can make the world of a difference in giving your skin a youthful and healthy glow. I live and die by the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+.
• Handbags - I was torn between whether or not to put this in the splurge or save category, but it ended up being a splurge. I don't think its necessary to have 10 designer handbags, but I do think there is something to be said for having one classic designer piece that you'll have for a lifetime. For trendy seasonal bags, save your money and shop at places like Forever21 or Asos, but treat yourself to a good timeless piece, in a style and color you know you can get use out of regularly.

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• Basic Tees - I don't think there is absolutely any reason to spend $50 on a white t-shirt, regardless of if you're on a budget or not. Basics like v-necks and long sleeved shirts get worn out so easily, don't feel bad about replacing them every year. Place like Gap and Old Navy are my go-to stores for these essentials because they are both affordable and good quality.
• Makeup - Drugstores are filled with amazing products, and the selection isn't what it was 5 years ago. There are tons great quality items for reasonable prices. Of course you can still buy brand name products from places like Sephora, but don't feel like you need to live beyond your means and restrict yourself to only high-end products. In my opinion, Ulta gives girls on a budget the best selection, combining drugstore and high-end under one roof.
• Shorts - This may seem random, but because it is summer, and distressed jean shorts are super in, I thought I should add this one to the list. Save your money on these, and make them yourself. Go to a thrift store or second hand store, or even use a pair of old jeans you just aren't into anymore and cut and distress them yourself. It's a lot easier than it looks, and a lot cheaper then spending hundreds of dollars on a trendy seasonal item. I'll be putting up an entire DIY post on making your own shorts soon, so if you're interested keep an eye out!
• Workout Gear - Now, don't get me wrong, I love Lululemon just as much as the next girl, but spending $98 on a pair of cropped workout pants isn't realistic for everyone. And for those of you who still want to look cute while getting your sweat on, there are plenty of affordable brands out there that will let you do just that. Kate Hudson's line, Fabletics, offers style and quality without burring a whole in your wallet. Athleta is another good option for those of you looking to save money without sacrificing style. 

Ultimately, where you splurge and where you save is completely up to you, there really isn't a 'right' or 'wrong.' If you can afford to buy high-end products all around that's great, and if you can't that's fine too. Either way, don't feel bad. There is quality and style available for anyone on any budget. Remember, it's what makes you comfortable that's most important. What are your 'splurge' and 'save' items? 
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Father's Day Gift Guide 2014

Welcome back everyone! If things look a little different on my blog, it's because they are. I decided to completely change the layout and really dedicate time to making it exactly how I want it to look. Hopefully you all like it! with Father's day quickly approaching I wanted to share my gift guide with you for all the dads in your life.

1. Mustache & Bowtie DAD card, $6.95  2. Arthur George CAMO Socks, $30.00 3. The Art of Shaving Lexington Collection Set, $405 4. C Wonder Enamel DAD Cufflink, $44  5. PLAY Comme Des Garçons® For Converse® High-Top Sneakers, $105 6. ASOS Canvas and Leather Satchel, $76.22 7. Jan Kjobenhavn Timeless Sunglasses, $145 8. Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Pour Homme, $62 9. Buff & Shine Shoe Polish Kit, $25.95 10. Tie Bar 'Ze Moustache' Skinny Tie, $15