Product Junkie

BAG:
Henri Bendel classic strip large cosmetic bag. I love this bag. I've had it for years because of it's perfect size, quality, and the inner and outer surface can be wiped down and for me that's crucial.

EYELINER:
This always sharp waterproof kohl liner from Smashbox is magical! The cap has a built in sharpener so yes it is ALWAYS sharp, and it stays put. No more raccoon eyes, no more reapplying mid day, this stays put!

POLISH:
I was skeptical of at home gel especially with the low price point and no UV curing process. However, Revlon has proved me wrong with their new gel line. It's only a two step process, and so far I have been loving the results.

BROWN PENCIL:
This brow tech to go is so so good. The crayon like consistency allows it glide on, and the slanted tip let's you shape those babies perfectly. There is also a wand with brow gel on the other end to keep you looking put together all night.

SPOT TREATMENT:
Yup those pesky breakouts still happen from time to time, but my bog Mario Badescu has you covered. For those big "oh my God how can anyone see my face around that huge zit" cystic type of pests, the buffering lotion is a God send.



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Getting Lippy

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There are a few things I am really bad at. Applying lipstick happens to be one of them. I love the look of a bold lip, but to be honest I am terrified of the application process, the bleeding, and the potential for lipstick all over my teeth. I can't tell you how many times I have put it on to go out, only to wipe it all off before I step through the door.

So what's a crazy anxious lipstick-phobic gal like me to do? Find products that mimic the pigment and staying power of a lipstick, without the traditional tube and slanted tip. I've rounded up a few of my favorite alternatives and some ones I'd really like to try out. The new chubby crayon shape many brands are coming out with give me the precision I need in rich, velvety shades I actually want to wear. 

I mainly stick to balms during the week, and I have to give a shout out to Fresh's Sugar treatment in "Cherry" because this is one of the most pigmented lightweight balms out there. It seamlessly transitions from day to night. I am pretty intrigued by the concept of liquid lipstick as that is very much in my comfort zone. Also, there are some wonderful alternatives available at your local drugstores so don't forget to check those out as well (I'm looking at you Burt's Bees and Revlon). 

Does anyone else relate to my lipstick phobia? Any products you swear by to give you the same look without the anxiety of traditional lipstick?

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Put Your Face on

I wish I could tell you I was one of those people that could throw on tinted  moisturizer, a swipe of mascara, some chapstick, and I would be good to go. Unfortunately, I have complicated skin that doesn't cooperate, lashes that lack volume, and the most "meh" set of lips ever. Seems like a lot of products to give me my everyday hardly any makeup look, but these are tried and true favorites that give me the "she isn't trying too hard" look.

I start with a shine controlling primer and cover dark circles if I have any. Then it's foundation (either powder or serum depending on a few factors), bronzer, and finishing powder. None of the face products are heavy so I don't even feel the makeup on my face. Then I layer on two different mascaras (2-3 coats depending on my time), swipe on a bone colored shadow to give my eyes an instantly awake look, line my lids, and finally curl those lashes. If it's not too hot out I will put on some peachy cream blush and finish the look off with a pink tinted balm. 

It seems like a lot, but once you have the hang of it you can get your makeup down in a matter of minutes. Having oily skin dictates that I assess my skin before application. I may need more or less, or to use a different foundation. C'est la vie. So what are your everyday products? Are you one of the lucky ones that wakes up looking good to go? If so I hate you. Just kidding, sort of.

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Bootcamp for Your Hair

There are so many pros to summer. The weather, the activities, and of course the beach! But the drastic climate change and environmental stressors can wreak havoc on your mane if you aren't helpful. I was blessed with lovely limp, fine, mousey hair that I put through a literal gauntlet of coloring and various heated styling tools. To be frank, my hair has ever right to hate me especially when I add sun, chlorine, and humidity to the mix.

Recently, I was given the chance to try and review some amazing products from my primping spot Drybar. Now you should know that I am not just pimping stuff on the internets. I actually use Drybar products on a daily basis, and have been doing so for over a year now. I'm a believer, I drank the Kool-Aid, and I'm never going back. Back to the newbies. Because of the hell I put my hair through, I HAVE to use a hair mask weekly. I've tried several out there (even the bagillion dollar kind) and this Mudslide nourshing mask left me with healthy, silky feeling hair. I am truly smitten. 

I am constantly looking for the best shampoo/conditioner combo and it's a never ending process that usually comes up short. Enter Sweet Tea volumizing shampoo and conditioner. I need all the help I can get when it comes to volume and these lovely concoctions give me that little extra lift I so desperately desire (and they smell great too!). If you have fine hair, I cannot say enough good things about this combo! It's all fun and games while washing your hair, until you get to brushing/detangling your hot mess mane. For that extra little push my hair needs, Gold Mine leave in conditioner saved the day. My ends didn't look so fried, and the shimmer gave this bottle blonde some extra shine. 

Like I said, I love Drybar products. Detox dry shampoo and Money Maker hairspray have changed my life (no I am not exaggerating I get so much more time back each week since I now don't have to wash my hair everyday and my style stairs with zero crunch factor thanks to magic hairspray). Try them out and let me know how you like them. I would be pretty surprised to find someone who didn't love these great hair products!

Thank you to BrandLink DC and Drybar for sponsoring this post. Products pictured are c/o, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting brands that make A Little Lovelier possible.

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LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD

sweatshirt // dry brush // lip scrub // oil // scalp facial // serum // tea

Today's round up is all about taking care of yourself inside and out. This cozy sweatshirt lets you take your "me" time in comfort and style (perfect for times lounging around wtih a good book!). Have you heard of dry brushing? If not google it immediately! It's so great for circulation, cellulite, and the lymphatic system plus encourages skin cell renewal while exfoliating. Speaking of exfoliating, get that pucker ready with the perfect lip scrub with invigorating peppermint. Mood and senses are closely related, not to mention that smells trigger memories very intensely. Keep your thoughts light with this home fragrance oil with scents of the English coast. The beachy, salty scent is sure to remind you of happy times at the beach. 

Dry shampoo has changed my life, but it also has done not so amazing things to my scalp. Even though I use a clarifying shampoo weekly, there is still product buildup. Enter this scalp treatment with it's built in brush to massage in the product and help lift away residue. Let your best face shine through with a retuxturizing and radiance boosting serum. This one not only improves skin's texture and tone, but packs a serious punch of anti-oxidants and red seaweed to help relax fine lines and protect against environmental stressors. The benefits of green tea are numerous, but this one can also chock up great taste to the list. The blueberry flavor is subtle and delicious making green tea a happy part of my routine.

What do you do or  use to keep yourself looking good on the inside and out? I'd love to know!

Let Me Upgrade You

sunnies // curling wand // painting // night cream  
lip balm // wine glass // bag // face brush

I have been in a shopping rut and thus have not made many purchases at all in months. I'm at a transitioning point in my life where I want quality over quantity, and I want my purchases to be an investment in myself and my home. So today's picks are all about upgrading some basics that most of us all already have in some capacity.

First, find the right pair of sunglasses that flatter your face in a classic color and style, you'll thank me. A curling wand may seem a tad frivolous, but your hair is one of the first things people will notice (and who hasn't had awful hair days that ruin everything?). If you're like me you want pretty big loose curls and a crappy cheap curling iron just never quite gets it right. You should feel good about your hair. Real art. Just do it already. Find what you like, buy some, frame it, and enjoy it for years to come. Really good night cream. You don't have to break the bank for this one, but make sure you get a thick cream with anti-aging and moisturizing benefits because let's be honest loves, we're no longer spring chickens. While we are on the topic of skincare, go ahead and purchase that Clarisonic you've been thinking about for 2+ years. Exfoliation is crucial to your skin's appearance not mention it makes your cleanser more efficient. Bite the bullet, add to shopping cart, click checkout, et voila!

Lip balm that actually repairs and treats your lips. Did you know most lip products have ingredients that actually dry your lips out and make you use more of said product? I know it's total crap. Use a good balm and take care of your lips they are one of the first indicators of aging. I wouldn't dare tell you what to drink or how much you should spend on wine, but there comes a point when it's time get yourself a few decent wine glasses. Some for reds, a few for whites, and use them accordingly. Boom, instant civility! Last, but certainly not least. Get yourself a "big girl bag" at least for work/travel. Instantly polish your look with a good quality, sturdy bag that you can proudly take from the office to the nicest restaurant. 

What types of things do you upgrade in your life? Would love to hear how other people "invest" in themselves!

On My Radar

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This week's On My Radar is all about some of my new favorites. 1.) I have been a bareMinerals loyalist for eight years now, and was skeptical to try a liquid foundation but the bareSkin serum foundation is awesome even for oily skinned gals like me. 2.) The bareMinerals face perfecting brush makes all the difference in the world when applying bareSkin. Just two drops gives me light even coverage. 3.) OPI Cajun Shrimp is an oldie, but certainly a goody. This is the perfect summer shade of coral that compliments even the palest skin (yours truly is at full Casper status). 4.) Elements of Style is the first book from one of my favorite bloggers Erin Gates, and is available for pre-order now. Her blog Elements of Style is not only a daily must read, but she has mastered the perfect content mix of design, fashion, life, and everything in between. 5.) I love love love turquoise for summer, and this bib necklace gets it so right. 6.) For the first time in my life my eyes and the vicinity are looking tired and dark. Origins GinZing refreshing eye cream gives under-eyes a much needed boost of caffeine (I apply all over eye lids too for a boost). 

On My Radar

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Summer ultimately means less. Less makeup, less accessories, and frankly less clothing. I'm on the lookout for the perfect white tee, comfy shorts, day to night wedges, and a "wow" maxi. What are your summer essentials?

Signature Scents

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I'm not very adventurous when it comes to new scents. I like to stick to my go to old standards (Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom and Honey) and don't veer off those very often. But lately, I have been dying to get a new signature scent that I will love as much as Jo. Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black has me really intrigued but might me too masculine for me. I really love grapefruit and as on of the main scents in Tory Burch's scent I think it could be a match. Jo Malone Blackberry and Bay... no need to elaborate.  

While all these bottles are stunning and would look lovely on any surface (hello AERIN!), I need to fine one that works for everyday that I love and Danny doesn't hate. He has very strong opinions about my dry shampoo and may or may not tell me I smell like a new diaper. I will most likely over think and flip flop on my decisions, but I think I am leaning toward the timeless classic scent of gardenia barring any complications. If you have any favorites you would be willing to share I would love to hear from you!

Currently Obsessed With

I don't fuss too much with makeup on a day to day basis. I pretty much swipe mascara on, conceal any imperfections that are very visible and get out the door. I have to admit though I do have a major jealous streak when it comes to women with full lashes. I have nice long lashes, but like my hair, they have zero volume. I've tried every kind of mascara out there promising better results than all the others, but they all have fallen flat.

So a few weeks ago while I was bored in my hotel room I started looking on Pinterest for different celebrity beauty secrets. I stumbled upon Carrie Underwood's mascara routine, and was pleasantly surprised. Of course for stage events she wears falsies, but for everyday Carrie stated that she layered three different mascaras to achieve the same look. Well I only had two with me, but the three coat layer technique did the trick! My lashes were full, long, and more dramatic than ever before without the dreaded tarantula look. 

I have been layering my mascara for a few weeks now, and I am hooked. I use CoverGirl Clump Crusher, Maybelline Falsies, followed by another coat of Clump Crusher to achieve my look. My advice would be to put on a defining, lengthening mascara first then a volumizer, followed by a third coat of defining to get rid of any clumping. Hope you like your results as much as I do!

Weekly Wants: Makeup

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I'm a creature of habit and I don't change up beauty products too often, but lately I'm itching to try some new ones. Even though I'm no longer in school , I always feel like I need a clean start around"back to school time." I think this is the perfect excuse to revamp my makeup bag contents. Anything you are lusting over at the makeup counters?

Have a great weekend everyone! See you on Monday!

Nail Love

* denotes personal favorite

It's no secret that I love love love fall. It is without a doubt my favorite season, and time of year (except for Christmas). One of my favorite parts about fall are all the dark, sultry nail polish colors that pop up everywhere. I'm partial to Essie colors as you can see, but I have seen some gorgeous colors from OPI and Butter that I'd like to try out. Even though it's classified under holiday, I love glitter polish for fall too especially the two pictured above because the glitter is very small and fine so you get really subtle sparkle or layer it for a really festive look. 

I have my color staples like Wicked, but I am dying to try that great navy and the emerald looking one too. New colors are great to mix it up, but you can never go wrong with a classic red nail it will always be in style. What are some of your faves? I'm dying to try some new ones!

Colors pictured: 
Top Row- Ballet Slippers, Topless and Barefoot, Chinchilly, Smokin' Hot
Middle Row- Devil's Advocate, Bahama Mama, Wicked, After School Boy Blazer
Bottom Row- Laquered Up, Silver Bullions, Stylenomics, Beyond Cozy

Weekly Wants

It's funny what we justify expensive purchases for, and those other things that you always buy on the cheap. I have always been an on the cheap girl when it came to skincare. I have done ok with that in my twenty seven years, but lately I have been thinking that if I am going to make investment purchases shouldn't I include my skin in the scenario too? It's the largest organ we have, and as we get older we have to take better care of it.

I'm pretty lucky I have always been a big SPF advocate so my fine lines and wrinkles are minimal, but I'm not going to have youthful looking skin forever. Today I wanted to share my lust list for skincare products. What's on your list of splurge-worthy products to keep that mug of yours looking good?

1. Mario Badescu Cucumber Lotion

2. La Mer Soft Cream

3. Retinoid Pads

4. Dr. Jart Beauty Balm

5. Skinceuticals Phloretin

So Fresh and So Clean

DryBar Detox/ Suave Professionals/ Oscar Blandi/ Not Your Mother's Clean Freak/ Ojon Full Detox

I am guilty of all the major hair sins: over processing, over styling, heat damage, brushing when wet, and washing my hair too much. Yes, there is such a thing as washing your hair too much. On top of all my hair infractions, I also happen to have very fine and oily hair which means it is even more temperamental...yay! 

About six months ago my stylist begged me to stop washing my hair so much because it was in such bad shape (brittle and dry). I didn't think I could do that because I have oily thin hair  that just looks plain dirty the next day, and let's be honest that just isn't a good look for anyone. I started experimenting with different dry shampoos and honestly it was life changing. I can now wash my hair every other day and no one is the wiser. 

Dry shampoo is such a game changer. Not only does it extend that freshly washed look, but it also gives me a much needed boost in volume. My hair is fuller, shinier, and the breakage has significantly decreased since I began washing my hair less often. I have tried all of the products listed, and am currently in LOVE with Drybar's Detox dry shampoo. It's on the steeper end at $20, but it saves me close to 4 hours a week in washing and styling time.  Have you jumped on the dry shampoo band wagon yet? Which brands do you love?

Makeup in a Jiff

I wouldn't say I'm great at a lot of things, but one thing I can do really well is natural looking makeup. I don't enjoy caking stuff on my face so my makeup routine is pretty basic and still keeps me looking very much like myself. The only thing I refuse to leave home without having on is a quick swipe of mascara. You can imagine I don't like spending a ton of time to create a natural look (what would be the point?). I have the 5 minute makeup routine down to a science. We're not talking about overly expensive products or tons of fancy brushes here, just a few staples and an index finger and you're good to go!

1. This primer has been a God send due to the icky DC summers and my less than lovely oily complexion. Primer may not seem necessary, but it keeps my makeup on all day.

2. I have been using bareMinerals foundation for seven years and I will never stop. Bonus you can also use it as a spot concealer under your foundation application.

3. I have fairly rosy cheeks naturally so I don't like to do much to them, but for that subtle glow I love Nars the Multiple in Orgasm. It gives just the right amount of color and stays put. You can also use this on your eyes and lips (love a multitasker!). 

4. Mascara is to me as water is to fish... we need it or we die. OK that's a tad dramatic. but mascara opens your eyes and makes you appear alert even when you aren't. I have length but lack volume and Maybelline Mega Plush does the trick sans tarantula eyes.

5. Unfortunately eyeliner has never liked staying put on my eyes until I tried Bobbi Brown's Long- Wear Gel Eyeliner. This stuff stays put... all day... rain or shine. Once you get the hang of painting it on it's a breeze to use and doesn't come off until you want it to.

6. I'm not a huge eye shadow person basically because I'm too lazy to apply it. My go to for day or night is Stila Kitten. It's subtle shimmer looks good on everyone and really brightens up your eyes. 

7. I have a phobia of lipstick being on my teeth so it deters me from wearing lipstick 99% of the time. I'm much more comfortable with a tinted lip balm that doesn't make me paranoid. I like this punch colored balm by Burt's Bees because it gives just the right amount of color without smudging all over the place. 

I'd love to hear about your must have makeup products since most of these were referrals from friends. What do you consider part of your 5 Minute Face?

Skin Care for Atypical Skin

I can almost never relate to articles, features, or blog posts on skincare. I don't have the pesky dry skin people always lament about. I don't know what it's like to need to "hydrate my face" and I certainly don't reap the benefits of piling on thick luxurious moisturizers. I have oily skin, and on top of my oil slick I have super sensitive skin. Fun combination, I know you're jealous.

I'm not going to lie to you and tell you I do the best job of taking care of my skin. I fall asleep in my bareMinerals, don't always wash off all my mascara, and I probably could clean my makeup brushes more often. What I have figured out is what works well for my troublesome skin without nasty side effects or discomfort.

Daily: I use a Clarisonic face brush to cleanse my face (worth the investment), a mild anti-acne cleanser, and an oil controlling moisturizer with SPF* in it. *Wear the SPF ladies because no one likes wrinkles and melanoma...NO ONE! When I actually take the time to wipe off my makeup I use Cetaphil it works like a charm with no irritation or oily residue.

A Few Times a Week: I like the feel of a gritty exfoliator to loosen up anything building up in my pores and St. Ives Apricot Scrub does the trick every time. After scrubbing, I like to use a very gentle toner to soothe and keep my pores in good shape. If I have already spent that much time on my face, I will typically apply some sort of anti-aging cream preferably for my skin type.

For Unwanted Face Visitors: I really don't appreciate the real estate zits can take up on my face and Mario Badescu's drying lotion is the best and fastest way to get them to close up shop. Yes you will look like a freak when you go to bed with pink dots on your face, but they will be gone or nearly gone the next morning.