Nail Polish Obsession | March 2014

The color I'm completely head over heels in love with this month is from the new Brazil collection by OPI, and it's called, 'Taupe Less Beach."

I can't say enough good things about it. I went to get my nails done with one of my friends about a week ago, and ever since I can't stop staring at the color. It is the absolute prefect shade of taupe and gray mixed together. It has gorgeous lilac undertones so it would compliment all skin colors. I HIGHLY recommend trying it out. I think it's the perfect transition shade from winter to spring, because it's still a neutral, but it isn't too dark. This color is everything.

And if neutrals aren't your cup of tea, I still recommend checking out the rest of the colors in the Brazil line because they are all amazing.

Fashion Rundown | 2014 Oscars

It has been way to long since I've last blogged and I am so sorry! As most of you know I am a full time student, and things have just been super hectic with exams and papers so I needed to take a little time off, but, I am back. From now on I'm going to be posting on Mondays and Fridays just because I think that's what is going to work best with my schedule.

With that being said, let's just jump right in to the AMAZING, and not so amazing fashion we saw last night at the Oscars. I was presently surprised to see the majority of the stars looking so gorgeous. I'm going to be giving you my picks for best & worst dressed of the night, and while the good were to die for, the bad, were just simply awful.

BEST DRESSED

Women 

1. Kate Hudson

Kate Hudson wore Versace and literally made me emotional walking the red carpet. She looked so drop dead gorgeous it should be a crime. I loved every single thing about this look - her hair was perfect, the shall was phenomenal, make-up was to die for, accessorize were done superbly - I just can't even handle how flawless she is. I even want to go as a far as to say that this is one of my favorite, if not my favorite Oscars look EVER. #KateTheGreat 

2. Lupita Nyong'o

Lupita Nyong'o wore custom Prada and of course looked like a goddess. This entire award season Lupita has been on point and every single one of her looks have been amazing. She has truly made a huge splash, not only in the film world, but the fashion world as well. Her skin tone is just so gorgeous she could wear any color and look to die for. I loved that she went for a softer look with the Robin's egg blue - it was so flattering and really appropriate because it gave her the opportunity to truly have her Cinderella moment. The accessories were also flawless. The headband was a perfect touch, and surprisingly age appropriate. Once again, Lupita killed it. She can do no wrong.

3. Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer Lawrence wore Christian Dior haute couture dress, and being the face of the brand, no one was surprised by that. When I saw this I think I almost died. Putting aside the fact that I'm just so obsessed with her as a person, she looked so amazing it didn't even seem real. She wore red to the 2012 Oscars, and a lot of fashion critiques said she shouldn't have repeated but I completely disagree. I think the gowns are so different they can't even be compared. I love the fact she brought back the 'exit necklace' from last year.  And her hair was also amazing - all in all, just another fashion win for J-law.

4. Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett wore Armani Privé and looked flawless as usual. This woman could wear a trash bag and be voted best dressed. Beading was a big trend on the red carpet this year, but I have to say, Cate is the only one who got it right. From hair and make-up to accessories, she nailed it on all fronts.The nude was the perfect shade and didn't wash her out at all. Every time we see Cate I feel like she looks younger and younger. I have no idea what she's eating or drinking, but whatever it is, I need to get my hands on some. This dress was truly gorgeous and perfect for her to take home the Oscar for best actress in.

5. Charlize Theron

Charlize also wore a Christian Dior haute couture dress. Usually I would not pick someone who wore black to be on my best dressed list for the Oscars, just because it really doesn't pop or stand out - but - seeing this made me want to take back every time I had ever said that. Charlize looked beyond gorgeous. The detailing on the bottom of the gown was amazing, and the nude straps gave it that little oomph. What I love most isn't just the way the dress fit and looked on her, but the way she was accessorized. She completely killed it. LOVE LOVE LOVE

Men

Because the guys just don't get enough love on the red carpet <3

1. Jared Leto

Jared Leto in St. Laurent - words do not even describe how flawless he is. First of all, can we talk about the fact that he is 42?!?! When I heard that last night, I was beyond shocked. He looks like he's barely 30.  I am such a huge fan of his fashion sense, and I think he's one of the few men who isn't afraid of taking risks when it comes to what he wears. The cream jacket was a HUGE trend this year and I just absolutely love that he went for it. Not only was his outfit amazing, I was having major hair envy when it comes to his perfectly ombré locks. I love that he went for a crisp red bow tie instead of black and paired it with the handkerchief in his jacket pocket. Absolutely amazing.


2. Chris Hemsworth

Chris Hemsworth wore a David August tux, as is without a doubt one of the biggest hunks in Hollywood. However, he isn't particularly known for his fashion sense. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw how amazing he looked last night. With a face like that its hard to ever look bad, but I really thought the burgundy jacket and vest, made the look unique - something that can be pretty hard to do when wearing a tux. Unfortunately, it seems that his wife doesn't have the same stylist, because she looked a little less that amazing in Elie Saab.

3. Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan wore a Givenchy tux, paired with AMAZING gold-plated Givenchy shoes. While he hasn't really been in the spot light for that long, I think its so great that he looked so impeccably dressed last night. He was another one of the boys who wasn't afraid to break that traditional black and white tux look and go for something a little more fashion forward and edgy. I loved the shoes, and I especially loved the stars he had pined on the collar of his shirt. Love it all.

4. Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey was another man who was dressed to the nine. Wearing Dolce & Gabbana he went with the cream jacket trend, and nailed it. Unlike Leto, he kept it a little more classic, which I think was a good choice because he did after all win the Oscar for best actor. With his drop dead gorgeous wife as arm candy, he did it all right. Also, incase you didn't see how much of a MILF his mom is, go goggle what she looked like last night because you will die

Honorable Mention:

Kristen Bell

Kristen looked so cute in Roberto Cavalli and was totally channeling her inner 'Frozen' Princess. Really liked this look <3

P!NK

During her tribute to the Wizard of Oz, P!NK looked amazing. Such an appropriate dress for the occasion. She was like a little ruby slipper - loved it.

WORST DRESSED

1. Whoppi Goldberg

There are no words to even describe this atrocity. I don't know what the issue is that Whoppi has with getting dressed but she really needs to either hire a stylist or fire the one she currently has. With the resources available to her looking like this at the OSCARS is unacceptable. She was definitely trying to go for the look Julia Roberts did at the Golden Globes, but it just wasn't working for her. First of all, that shirt looked like it had yellowed from being so old, and the fit did her no favors. The look was disheveled and unorganized. She was trying to be Julia, Dorothy, and Madonna, all in one outfit and it DID NOT WORK.

2. Giulianna Rancic

This one really saddens me because I usually like the things I see Giulianna in. She decided to wear Paolo Sebastian Couture and looked more like she was auditioning for the adult version of Toddlers&Tiaras rather than going to the Oscars. I think the dress in itself was awful - the tool was was too over powering for a woman of such a small frame, the detailing on top looked ill-fitting, and the color washed her out completely. I also think that her hair and make-up added to my negative feelings towards this look. The tight slicked back bun made her face looked oddly shaped and that awful nude lip made her look sick. Sorry G, better luck next time. 


3. Viola Davis

Viola Davis in Escada, was very lack-luster. I thought the color was okay, but the cut was really unflattering. Her shoulders looked even broader that usual, and the folding of the satin over her belly made her look with child. I really hated the hair and the accessories. It looked like she was wearing hand cuffs instead of the diamonds, and I think the Gatsby inspire finger curls aged her. The drop waist was a poor choice in my opinion for a woman of her body type. I think it made her look boxy and disproportional. Overall I was definitely not a fan.

4. Penelope Cruz

Penelope girl, why? She wore Giambattista Valli Couture, and I was really disappointed with this. She looks like she's wearing bed sheets draped around her body. As one of the most beautiful women in the world, it was such a shame she did this to herself. Her body was completely overpowered by the amount of excess fabric on her, and it made her look like she was another star who was expecting. Definitely a poor choice, hopefully next year she makes a comeback. I believe in you P.

5. Liza Menelli

Where do I even start with this hot mess. Liza Menelli followed in Penelope Cruz's footsteps apparently, going for the 'bedroom couture' look. However, she just decided to just wear her silk pajamas to the Oscars. Like really Liza? Really? With the amount of money this woman has, she could have hired someone to make her look amazing. But instead, she looked messy, and it was completely inappropriate for her age. The blue stripe in her had and those earrings, paired with her orthopedic shoes were just so wrong, it pained me to look at her.

6. Pharrell Williams

If there was ever a time to wear  tux Pharrell, this was it. The Oscars are not the appropriate event to get creative with your LANVIN tux and go for capris instead. I thought he looked really poorly styled, and his date was just as bad. For someone with such a interesting style, this was very disappointing. He tried to push the envelope too much, and it just wasn't happening. The black tux is a classic look for a reason Pharrell.

Beauty DIY | Face Masks

Face masks are one of the best ways to relax and recharge after a long week of work or school. By making them yourself you can easily transform a popular spa treatment into a budget friendly pampering session at home. Below are two of my favorite DIY face masks at the moment- they are both really easy to make and very low maintenance. I found these both on Pinterest, but you can always search online for more fun ways to bring the spa home to you! Enjoy!

Ingredients:

Organic ingredients are always recommended 

1/3 Cup cocoa

1/4 Cup honey

2 Tablespoons heavy cream, or sour cream

3 Tablespoons oatmeal powder

Note: If you don't have oatmeal powder, you can use Old Fashioned Oats and pulse them in a food processor until they become powdery.

Directions:

1. Using a small bowl and either a spoon or spatula, mix together all the ingredients 
2. Continue to stir until all the ingredients are well combined
3. Apply immediately on face using a clean brush or fingers (cosmetic fan brush can be used or a soft bristled basting brush)
4. Gently massage the mixture into your skin for about 1-2 minutes
5. Let mixture sit for 15-20 minutes
6. Rinse off with warm water
7. Pat dry skin & moisturize as usual

This face mask can not be made ahead and stored, so only mix it when you're ready to use it.

Ingredients:

Organic ingredients are always recommended 

4 Teaspoons of Lemon Juice

3 Tablespoons of Honey 

Directions:

1. Mix the 4 teaspoons of lemon juice with the 3 tablespoons of honey
2. Gently apply the mixture to your face, using small circular motions
3. Let mixture sit for 15-20 minutes
4. Rise off with warm water
5. Pat dry skin & moisturize as usual

This mask can be used 1 to 2 times a week to create and maintain a glowing complexion. 

Top 10 Beauty Products Under $10

I wanted to do this blog post because I think there is the common misconception that in order to get good beauty products you need to spend a lot of money, and that's just not true. There are so many amazing products that you can find for under $10 that there really is no reason to splurge on all your beauty needs. Don't allow yourself to get caught up in the hype of brand names. Instead, save your money and visit your local drug store.

1. Batiste Dry Shampoo - Hint of Color

If I was only able to use one beauty product ever again, it would be this dry shampoo. I'm really obsessive when it comes to keeping my hair healthy and this is a huge part of my haircare routine. I only like to wash my hair between 2-3 times a week because I don't want to dry it out, and this is a life saver. I know a lot of people who don't like dry shampoos because they can leave a white cast in your hair, especially if you have dark hair like, but thats the magic with this one. It sprays on brown, so you don't need to spend 20 minutes brushing white powder out of your hair. I go threw these like its my job - I use probably 2-3 a month and that is not an exaggeration. If you haven't tried it, I absolutely recommend it, I think everyone will love it. They also have regular ones without tint, and one for blonde hair.
Price: $8.99

2. Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Towlettes 
I have used more make-up removing wipes that I can even count. I feel like I've tried them all, but these are truly the best. They are all natural so you don't have to worry about smearing harmful chemicals all over your face, and they smell really good. They are super moist, unlike some that I've tried that have felt dry and kind of rough. It says that there is no rinsing required but I still always use my Clarisonic afterwards to make sure absolutely all my make-up is off. If you are in the market for some seriously amazing wipes, definitely pick these up at your local drugstore.
Price: $6.00

3. Wet n' Wild Eyeshadows  

Wet n' Wild in my opinion has the best drug store eye shadows around. They are RIDICULOUSLY affordable, it is insane how cheap they are, and they are great quality. The eye shadows are extremely pigmented and super blendable. You get so much bang for your buck, that every time I've gotten one of the 'Color Eyeshadow' pallets, I've felt like I was an extreme couponer. My favorite pallete is the one picture above, called 'Comfort Zone.' I'm a big fan of neutrals and they're really all I wear so this pallet was right up my alley. They sell the shadows in groups of 3, or 8. You can get a total of 8 shadows, each labeled with where they recommend you put them on your eye, for under five dollars. They are great for anyone who is just starting out with make-up because you can practice different eye looks with tons of colors without feeling like you're wasting money.

Price: $4.99

4. Milani Baked Blush

Milani is one of my all time favorite brands at the drug store, the quality is amazing and it's very budget friendly. Their baked blushes have amazing pigmentation and are very blendable. My favorite shade is 'Luminoso.' It's very comparable to Nars' 'Orgasm' in the sense that it has the same bronzed glow to it. Another one of my favorites is 'Coralina' which is perfect for the summer when your skin is tanner than usual. The entire collection has a lot of color versatility which means regardless of if you're of a lighter complexion or a darker one they'll have a shade that will compliment you.

Price: $7.49

5. Revlon ColorBurst Matte & Laquer Lip Balms

I am OBSESSED with these. I suffer from dry lips and 9 times out of 10 it's a serious struggle to find a lipstick or pigmented lip balm that isn't going to accentuate that. Revlon hit the nail right on the head with these bad boys. The entire collection contains 10 different colors and they are all gorgeous. They are so pigmented it is insane & they go on like BUTTER. They also have a relatively long wear time for a balm, and every time I've worn them I have been pleasantly surprised by how long they've lasted. My favorite shades at the moment are 'Unapologetic,' 'Standout,' 'Shameless,' and 'Elusive' (these aren't the same shades as pictured). They are very similar to the Clinique Chubby Sticks, except the color pay off is much better in the matte balms and they are a third of the price.

Price: $8.99

 6. L'Oréal True Match Super Blendable Makeup

Anyone who knows me knows I live and die by my True Match foundation. While I have been leaning more towards the newer 'Lumi' version, the original is amazing. Finding a good drug store foundation is always difficult for me because my skin gets really dry in certain areas and a lot of them just cling to those dry patches - this one does not. It's a medium coverage foundation that gives a relatively dewy finish but nothing too excessive. It is by far one of the easiest foundations to work with, its very blendable and can be used with either a beauty blender or any type of foundation brush.

Price: $6.96

7. L'Oréal Telescopic Mascara
While I don't use drug store mascara that often, just because I'm madly in love with my Benefit 'They're Real" mascara, this one is really amazing. I have pretty long lashes naturally so I look for mascaras that don't just lengthen but volumize as well. This was the first mascara I ever really bought for myself and it will always be the one I go back to when I'm looking for something that I know will give me good results. They have three different shades but I use the shade 'Blackest Black.' The wand is a rubbery one with small bristles and those are my favorite - they get every single lash and don't let them clump.
Price: $9.99

8. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara

I honestly could not live without this stuff. I know it looks very strange but it is AMAZING. I don't use it as mascara, I use it as a clear brow gel. There is absolutely no reason to spend more than $10 on brow gel for your everyday stash. You can just go to any drug store and get this baby. It works just as well and lasts forever. The 'Great Lash' line is amazing in general but this is by far my favorite one - they also have tons of fun colors like blue, pink, and purple. 

Price: $5.99

9. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser - Dark Circles Concealer & Treatment

Everyone I know that has tried these is in love with them, and I am no exception. There are two version of the 'Age Rewind' erasers - one that is for dark spots, and one for dark circles. I use the one for dark circles because fortunately I don't suffer from dark spots. Depending on how dark my circles are, I will either use this by itself, or pair it with a full coverage concealer. I use the shade 'Brightener' because it really helps to bring life to my face significantly more than a regular flesh toned concealer. I also really like the applicator which is rare for me in a drug store product. If you don't have really dark circles, but you just want to brighten up that under eye area, I would absolutely recommend trying this out.
Price: $7.49

10. Sally Hansen Hard as Nails

If you haven't heard of this product you literally need to stop what you are doing and go buy it. I have been using this nail polish since I was probably 6 years old. My mom always had it in the house and I just fell in love with it. I am constantly begin told how insanely thick and strong my nails are, and I am not lying when I tell you it is because of this. When I do an at home mani, I always use this as a base coat and a top coat. It comes in two shades, the clear one that I use, and a pinker tint called 'natural.' Never in my life have I felt like I have had such amazing results from a nail product. There will never be a time in my life where this is not in my nail polish collection and I strongly recommend you make it part of yours ASAP.
Price: $2.47