Beautygirl24

{Colorful} Girls Night Out

2012-01-27T14:31:00.000-08:00

Blazer - Nordstrom, Coral top - Anthropologie, Jeans - Banana Republic, Berry pumps - J. Crew, Bag - Kate Spade, Jewelry - J. Crew, Lisa Taubes, Chanel, Charlene K, Engagement, Flower pin - F21

I feel very much like Carrie Bradshaw in this outfit, mainly due to the large flower pin I found. I've always wanted a giant flower to add to the lapel of a jacket or blazer, but I could never find one that I loved. Leave it to Forever 21. This evening, I'm going to have dinner with two of my girlfriends. One knows she will be a bridesmaid in my wedding, and the other doesn't...yet!

Cheers to the weekend,

♥ Noelle

Maybelline Color Tattoo

2012-01-25T18:36:00.000-08:00

I can't remember the last time I was so excited to run over to the drugstore. As soon as I told you about how happy I am with the Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush, I decided to pick up the 24 hour shadow in Tough as Taupe. I wore it all weekend, and was so impressed by it that I picked up another shade with a CVS coupon.

The glass jars make them appear more expensive than they actually are. For reference, they retail for $6.99. I got Bad to the Bronze for half that because I acquired a coupon.

These shades are extremely creamy, smooth, and pigmented. Bad to the Bronze is a shimmery golden shade, similar to MAC's woodwinked. It leans warm, but I'm sure it would look great on everyone. Tough as Taupe is a matte shade that leans more on the cooler/grey/mocha side. In the pot, Tough as Taupe looks lighter, and almost milky. Once you start using it, the color is much darker. It's a beautiful taupe!

I have only worn both with my Urban Decay primer, as I always wear a primer, even with cream shadows. These lasted all day! No joke, no creasing or smearing. I didn't even top these off with a powder. If you do top these with a matching powder eyeshadow, there isn't a doubt in my mind that they will last forever (or until you take your makeup off).

I can't rave enough about them and I highly suggest giving one a try. I think I'm satisfied with the colors I have so I will not be buying anymore, at least for the time being.

Aren't they pretty?!

♥ Noelle

Hana Air Review

2012-01-24T07:14:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I hope you are all doing well! I've been busy with work and appointments, hence the slight lack in posting so far this week.

About a month or so ago (time has been pretty blurry lately), I was contacted by someone from Misikko.com. They asked if I would review one of their blowdryers, the HANAair Professional. I normally am quite hestitant when a PR person emails me. This may sound strange, as I realize that the nature of beauty and fashion blogging involves direct contact with companies. I'm discerning because I want my blog to be authentically me. I will never post something here that I don't feel genuine about. But you know, I am pretty hopeless with my hair. And I have never, ever owned a nice professional hair dryer before, only drugstore brands that I can admit aren't the best quality. So when Misikko contacted me, I was thrilled! I've been using the dryer every time I wash my hair, which is every other day. I have been using it consistently for the past two weeks.

I love that it's a sleek black color. It is light-weight, easy to manuever, and easy to hold while I blow out my hair with both a round brush and a flat paddle brush.

It also comes with a detachable nozzle. I've never used one before, and I can't believe what a humongous difference it can make! The air is concentrated down the hair shaft, allowing for better control of styling. I point the dryer downwards as I straighten, section by section. My hair dries quickly, more smoothly, and with less frizz.

I love all of the settings that the HANAair has. I usually use the HOT/HIGH setting to blow my hair out, then switch on the COOL button to set it in place and help seal the cuticle.

Overall, I would give my experience with this blow dryer a solid A! I left my Revlon dryer behind at my old house, but I have no desire to go back. This is hands down the best hair dryer I've tried. You girls know I just received a GHD for Christmas from my fiance, but if you are interested in hair straighteners, I'm sure the ones on the Misikko website are great too. If you girls have any further questions, please feel free to ask!

♥ Noelle

just a splash

2012-01-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

Leopard blouse - F21, Black Cardigan - Nordstrom, Scarf - F21, Jeans - BR, Pumps - Nine West, Jewelry - YSL and J. Crew, Lips - Hourglass lip stain in Petal with MAC Check This Out lipglass, Nails - Essie Watermelon

Just a splash...of color, that is. Sometimes I think of getting dressed the way I do when I make a cocktail. Nothing too overpowering, otherwise the whole thing is thrown off balance. But, sometimes a little something extra makes a world of difference.

Happy Friday!

♥ Noelle

Birds of a Feather

2012-01-19T10:41:00.000-08:00

Blouse - Target, Cami - F21, Jeans - BR, Pumps - Anne Michelle, Bracelet - TJ Maxx, Belt - H&M, Lips - See Sheer by MAC

My best friend and I have a thing for birds. She calls people she loves "goose" and I quickly caught on and followed suit. I don't know, there's just something about that word we enjoy saying. Goose. Goooose.

I found this casual top on a Target trip where I was returning a concealer. Good sense told me to just return the item and dart on outta there, but I couldn't help it and I looked through the clothes section. I like this flowy tunic top I found. It has character, what with the birdies and all. The color is also a pretty teal/green and it makes for a nice combo with jeans. Shades of green and blue are huge for Spring.

P.S. After almost six years of dating, I finally moved in with my fiance on Sunday! So if the background looks a bit different, that's the reason why (although the rooms are painted the same color as they were in my old house). We are in the process of buying our own condo or small home, so until then, this is where I'll be. Yup! Just me, my fiance, and three roommates. Oh, and two dogs :) It's a full house. I close the door to my little room that serves as my big closet. It's a room that's adjacent to the one I share with my fiance. His room doesn't have enough space for my stuff, so the room next to it serves as my powder room. It has my vanity where I do my makeup and hair, and a walk-in closet.
I keep the door closed while I'm getting ready and blogging. I think the roommates would judge me if they really knew what I do: behavioral specialist by trade (I guess?) but beauty and fashion blogger by heart. I may not do this for a living, but I love it a lot more then I ever dreamed I would.

♥ Noelle

Bouncy Blush

2012-01-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

There has been a slew of new products hitting drugstore shelves recently. From Revlon to L'oreal to Maybelline, it seems like every drugstore cosmetic brand is amping up their lines with inventive looking products. The one that caught my eye is the bouncy blush from Maybelline. I love cream blush, and although I don't really understand the purpose of these "bouncy" blushes, they are so pretty! I just had to try one and see what all the hype was about.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Peach Satin

It is honestly one of the oddest products I've ever tried. It has the consistency of putty. I was expecting a sponge or some sort of foam underneath the product to give it that "bounce" but I don't believe that there is. The product itself provides the texture, not the packaging as I had previously thought. I hope this is making sense! It really is very diffcult to properly describe.

This shade in particular is more coral than peach. I love the glow that it gives. I think overall, these blushes are sheer. They don't give off a lot of pigment, they are much more of a natural looking flush. In fact, Peach Satin gives me that color I naturally get after a good workout. I like that! This will be beautiful in the Summer, when I wear nothing but cream products. If you are going to try one of these for yourself, I would definitely recommend going for one of the brighter shades, as I think the lighter colors won't show up at all.

I do recommend the Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blushes. They may seem a little gimmicky, but I can assure you that they are more reliable than that. I would purchase it again.

Next, I want to try the Maybelline Tattoo cream eye shadow in the taupe color. Have you tried any of the new drugstore products?

♥ Noelle

Saturday Shopping

2012-01-15T16:46:00.000-08:00

Cardigan - Halogen via Nordstrom, Sequin sweater top - LOFT, Cami - F21, Jeans - BR, Leopard Flats - Steve Madden, Bag - Old Navy, Bracelet - J. Crew, Nails - Rare by Illamasqua

I always imagined that if I were to get my dream bag (my Chanel flap) that I would immediately stop dreaming about other handbags. After all, what's the need for more when you own your dream bag? But here's the thing: although I adore my Chanel, I am extremely OCD about it. I can't carry it to work with me. I can't carry it out when it's raining or even when I go out with friends for fear that someone might spill something on it. Or it might accidentally get scuffed or scratched. I don't know if it's my anxiety or my Virgo instincts kicking in, but I am very very careful with my Chanel. Too careful.

So for the past month, I've been on the hunt for a real leather bag that I can carry everyday. It had to meet certain criteria: practical and functional. Not too big nor too small. I also wanted one in a lighter color. Spring and Summer are right around the corner, and I already own a black Chanel, so no use it getting another black bag. But most importantly, I wanted a bag that I wouldn't have to baby! If it gets scratched, fine!

So Saturday when I went shopping, I brought this home with me:

"She tucked her coral lipstick away and floated back to the party."

Kate Spade

Ta-Da!

LINK!

I know. It is a total replica of the Chanel GST. I know! But I love quilted bags, and this one is so incredibly well made. The leather, although not as luxurious as my Chanel, is really beautiful quality. Soft and pillowy. And just look at the gorgeous nude color. The size is perfect for a petite girl, I don't feel at all overwhelmed by it. Plus, I feel that the price was right for such a bag.

Well done Kate Spade. I've never noticed your bags much before, but now I have!

I already put all my loot in it.

♥ Noelle

electric feel

2012-01-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

Illamasqua nail varnish in "Rare"

Thoughts:

* Please excuse the messy application. I did my nails right before leaving for a concert! It was rushed

* This is three coats. Now, rare is NOT as opaque as I had hoped it would be. The first couple of coats went on quite streaky, and that was frustrating. However, I tried for a third coat and that really made a difference.

* Despite the somewhat lack luster formula, I LOVE this color! It really does make a statement. I can't even tell you how many compliments I have recieved. The hubs? I don't think he's a huge fan, but that's ok.

* The color changes according to lighting. I think Emily from Emily Loves said it best when she commented that it must glow. Well it does! In the evening and at night, it is a fun almost lime green. During the day in bright sunlight, it is a lot more of a highlighter yellow.

* Overall, I am happy to have it and I know I'll wear it a lot, especially against neutral clothing so it really stands out. I can't wholeheartedly recommend this polish in particular because it is expensive (about 16 dollars) and I'm sure you can find a dupe for it for a lot less money.

Of course, the title of this post comes from one of my favorite bands. I dare ya to listen to it without at least doing a little wiggle-shimmy-shake.

MGMT

Happy Friday!

♥ Noelle

orange cardi

2012-01-11T18:05:00.000-08:00

Cardigan & Blouse - Halogen via Nordstrom, Bracelet - J. Crew, Ring - YSL

This feels very Fall to me, and the more I think about it, slightly Spring too? I have never been a fan of the color orange on myself, but something about this cardigan made me grab it off the rack at Nordstrom. I also love the polka dot blouse, complete with a floppy little bow.

Oh, and funny story about both of my YSL rings (I'm wearing the turquoise). They are both size 5, and unfortunately, I wish I had purchased one of them in a 6 because I can only wear them on my middle finger. And, because I'm a freak of nature, they only fit on my left hand! I can't wear my engagement ring when I wear my artys as they knock into the delicate little thing and I'm scared they will cause it some damage. *Sigh* I know, it's a rough life right? :)

♥ Noelle

The Mighty GHD

2012-01-10T17:51:00.000-08:00

For about two years, I lusted after the GHD. The hefty price tag not so much. I've never been one to splurge on hair tools. At almost 200 dollars, there was no way I could justify it. I was content with my Chi straightener, although I was unhappy with the inconsistency in my hair. An hour after I straightened my waves, and my hair's natural curl would show, along with some frizz. I chalked it up to the weather, and just accepted the fact that my hair is fussy with a mind of its own.

Well this Christmas, my fiance ordered the GHD from Sephora. I received it in the mail a few days ago, and let me tell you: it really is worth the hype, and it really is much better than Chi. Not to dis the latter, because it isn't a bad product by any means. I just think that GHD has a leg up on its competitor and I find it more efficient for thick, unruly hair.

Here is why I love it:
* It heats up in nano seconds. You turn on the switch and a beep tells you when its ready about 10 seconds later.

* It not only straightens my waves, but it keeps them straight too. It also imparts a lot more shine, less frizz.

* It automatically turns off and goes into sleep mode after 30 minutes if accentidentally left on. This is huge for me, because last month I came home after an entire day out and found my Chi still on. Thank God it didn't start a fire. It just turned part of my vanity an orange rust color :(

If you don't use a straightener often, then you don't really need one. However, if you use one a lot like I do, then it's worth it.

I am still keeping my old straightener for back up, but I prefer the GHD. I'm very happy with it!

Oh, and I'm also experimenting with the new hair dryer that Misikko.com kindly just sent me. Review to come!

Do you own a GHD? What are your thoughts?

♥ Noelle

My first beauty purchases of 2012

2012-01-09T17:02:00.000-08:00

On a trip to Sephora today, I made my first purchases of 2012. I wanted to branch out and try brands and products that I am completely unfamiliar with, and that is precisely what happened.

How's this for branching out? Highlighter neon (I mean NEON) nail polish from Illamasqua called Rare.

So excited to wear this! I'm still in love with the whole neon trend that's taken fashion and beauty by storm.

Hourglass cosmetics is a vegan line that does not contain any sulfates or parabens in their products. That drew me in, but the sleek packaging and elegant design also won me over. This is a lip stain in the color Petal, a soft peachy pink. So far, so good. I want to try more from the line in the future.

I also am loving this present I received from my best friend.

MAC lipglass in Check This Out.

Not sure if it is limited edition because I've been avoiding those collections like the plague but this is a very natural, glowy gloss. It reminds me of the infamous Love Nectar that is said to be a prime choice for brides on their wedding day. I actually like this color better.

There's nothing quite as satisfying as a good beauty binge is there?

♥ Noelle

Don't Stop Til You Get Enough

2012-01-06T13:58:00.000-08:00

Dress - H&M, Belt - Taken from an old dress, Necklace - HoH, Pumps - J Crew

It's been unseasonably warm, even for southern California! This girl is taking advantage. I can't get enough of this saucy little dress (a tunic for non-shorties like me, I'm sure). It just makes me feel so...so...saucy! What can I say? When I find something I love, I tend to wear it to death. And since I can't afford to go shopping for new things all the time, it's important to make the most of the pieces I love to love.

What do you wear over and over?

♥ Noelle

Shailene Woodley {Inspiration}

2012-01-05T09:31:00.000-08:00

After watching Shailene Woodley last month in The Descendants, I wanted to see more! She is strikingly beautiful and extremely natural which is something I love. When I received my latest In Style issue, there she was in a tropical fashion story.

{Thank you to Instyle for these pictures}

Just gorgeous. Makes me long for another Maui trip.

♥ Noelle

wear, love, repeat

2012-01-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

Top - Madewell, Skirt - Banana Republic, Pumps - J. Crew, Bracelet - TJMaxx

No full pictures today because I just wasn't feelin' it. I'm sure you girls can relate. The winter weather and holiday stress have left my face spotty and my hair fried. Get thee to a hairdresser stat! I am on Friday, just in time. This mane is not cooperating.

Anyhow, what do I do when I'm feeling a bit blah in the beauty department? Well I wear my favorite pieces of course! This outfit is comprised of things that make me happy, and more importantly, easy.

Wear...love...repeat.

♥ Noelle

Auld Lang Syne

2012-01-02T10:01:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012! How was your New Years Eve girls? Mine was phenomenal! We went to the local pub/grill that we like to frequent, and they did such an amazing job and gave wonderful service. It was a closed party with 65 guests, and the fiance and I wasted little time enjoying the food and drinks. Despite the fact that I have a sinus infection (and not a cold like I previously thought), I was still able to feel well enough to go out and put myself together. I would have preferred my hair to have been curled and my nose to have been less red, but by the time we were out and about, that didn't matter. Thank goodness for antibiotics. And concealer :)

Dress - Express (old), Blazer (unseen) - Frenchi via Nordstrom, Pumps - LOFT, Clutch - ASOS, Necklace - Kenneth Jay Lane Via Cocobella Ballerina :), Earrings - Sonya Renee, Rings - Engagement and Tiffany & Co.

I painted my nails a little bit differently then planned. I did a coat of Essie's Cocktail Bling as a base, and then two coats of OPI's Crown Me Already on top. Sparkles galore.

♥

Yesterday, we went to Dana Point and Laguna Beach to scope out some possible wedding venues. We went to a beautiful resort in Laguna and fell in love with the view.

These were taken with my HTC, so sorry for the brightness!

We could say "I do" on this terrace. Absolutely :)

So far, the new year has been great! I have a lot I want to work on. I didn't make any resolutions, but I have some things in mind...

How is 2012 treating you today?

♥ Noelle

Loving: New Year's Eve

2011-12-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure anyone loves New Years Eve as much as I do. For me, it's a day of quiet introspection. I ask myself questions such as What did I accomplish this year? Did I do the best I could? What do I need to change? I remember the fond memories, and say a silent prayer that the new year brings health and happiness to all those I love. Then the day turns into night and I let it all go, ready for a fun time ahead!

I like the clean slate feeling that the new year brings. Maybe I have been slacking in certain areas, and I became too lazy or too complacent to change them. The start of a new year reminds me that I can get back on track, that I can start again. If I want to, I can change.

And let's face it: New Years Eve is that perfect night to put on some glitz and wear a pretty party dress. No questions asked, cuz everyone else is covered in sequins and glitter too.

I always plan my outfit weeks in advance, although I don't always stick to the plan. Here's what I am (probably) going to wear Saturday night:

Black strapless lace dress from Express (last seen way back HERE)

Topped off with a black blazer

These shoes

This clutch

This makeup

And these nails

Jewelry is still undecided, but that's always the fun part for me. The not so fun part of my NYE story - I'm battling a horrendous cold and I hope it goes away quickly!

OOTD to come :)

Before I go, I want to wish my fiance a *Happy 30th Birthday*

I love you babe, you have always been the brightest part of my life! I can't wait to marry you!

See you next year everyone!

♥ Noelle

Flashback

2011-12-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

Oh, and I said YES!

What will you remember about 2011?

As always, thank you SO MUCH for reading, commenting, and being a part of my life.

♥ Noelle

Winter Wonderland

2011-12-26T11:01:00.000-08:00

I ordered these shoes from LOFT about two weeks ago, and they were 40% off. They are an insanely sparkly mass of charcoal colored glitter.

Most definitely the prettiest (and highest) heels I own. They will be on my feet NYE :)

OPI polishes in Designer...De Better! & Crown Me Already

I'm still not tired of the "accent nail." I painted my ring fingers with the silvery glitter polish, and the rest of my nails glistened with the silvery taupe. Other colors like milky pink, deep purple, and mint are on my list to pair with the silver glitter accent nail. Mere's nails are also on my radar. I think it's so festive for the Winter season, don't you? Again, my nails will be painted this way for New Years.

On another note, I think I'm going to finally give in and get a professional manicure. I pride myself on my ability to take good care of my nails, but this weather is wreaking havoc on my poor, dry hands. I slather them in oils, salves, and lotion but nothing seems to cure the dryness. I think I overwash my hands, but I am terrified of germs and illness this time of year. Any suggestions for me, or any standout products that you girls use?

Thanks!

♥ Noelle

Fierce

2011-12-21T20:10:00.000-08:00

Let me preface this by saying that this is my new favorite outfit in my closet. And I don't mean in any way to sound like my head is up in the clouds or I'm tooting my own horn. But there has to be just one outfit in every girl's wardrobe that makes her feel instantly pretty and confident, that special outfit that epitomizes her personal style. This is that outfit for me.

Dress - H&M, Tights - Express, Pumps - Nine West, Clutch - ASOS, Bracelet - TJMaxx, Earrings - F21

This evening, the fiance and I did some very last minute Christmas shopping and treated ourselves to dinner before making our way through the chaos of harried shoppers. We never go out on a weeknight, and it was fun to break up the monotony of the work week. Equally fun was my snake print dress, paired with my suede ASOS clutch and a rose gold/marcasite bracelet from TJ-Maxx.

♥ Noelle

Outside of my comfort zone

2011-12-20T15:48:00.000-08:00

In the past, there were some things I would never have imagined wearing. Why? Because I didn't think I could pull them off. Shorts and tights, an ever popular trend these days, would most certainly have been one of them. I'm still trying to figure out what possessed me to try it out. I don't like to take risks, and in my mind, shorts with tights are super tricky. Scary even.

I even added a scarf (because I was chilly).

Teal top and tights - Express, Blazer - Frenchi via Nordstrom, Shorts - H&M, Suede pumps - Anne Michelle, Bracelet - TJ Maxx, Scarf - Angl, Bag not shown - Chanel

Fashion bloggers work miracles on girls like me. I didn't think I could wear something so far outside of my comfort zone, but somehow I did. I really like the dark colors in the outfit, which is an instant way for me to try something new or trendy without feeling like I'm saying, "look at me!" I think the charcoal cotton shorts are also a safer option, and they seem more appropriate for evening, the only time I would consider such an outfit for myself.

So what's the worst that could happen anyway? Having someone tell you that you don't look so hot? It's not the end of the world ;)

Would you ever wear something completely outside of your safe zone?

♥ Noelle

Fall Beauty Favorites

2011-12-18T13:46:00.000-08:00

Now that it's almost Winter, I thought I'd take inventory and let you girls know what products I used consistently throughout the Fall season. I used much less makeup than I thought I would, purely out of laziness I might add. I focused on enhancing features I like, instead of really getting creative and coming up with different looks. I hope this little list of favorites doesn't bore you all, but at least we know what really works.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Exposed is a tawny, natural color that goes with everything. I wore this blush the entire month of November, and so far every single day this month too. I sort of feel guilty for abandoning my other pretty blushes, but this really is a no-brainer. I've also been using it to contour, and I find that I don't even reach for bronzer because this gives my complexion a nice glow on its own.

I'm a huge fan of highlighters in the colder months. Amber Diamond by Dior gets rave reviews on Temptalia, YouTube, Sephora, and on MUA. Women of all ages find that it leaves a soft sheen and not an overly glittery or greasy mess. I think it would be flattering on everyone. I have been using it not only on my cheekbones, but also on the apples of my cheeks. I love it.

{I just wish I could find Laura Mercier's Rose highlighter, it's strikingly gorgeous! If anyone knows where I can get my grabby hands on one, please email me!}

As much as I love my UD Naked palette, this one by Too Faced has won me over. The colors are soft and eye brightening. I have been reaching for these shadows over any others in my collection. They all work together to create the perfect naked eye. I use this palette mainly for work.

I've already talked about the Maybelline Define -A-Brow and my Kirkland spoolie brush from Costco. These are the tools I use to amp up my eyebrows.

As for lips, I haven't been reaching for one in particular. I try to wear a different lipstick every day. Favorites include the Revlon Lip Butters, my MAC lipsticks in See Sheer and Shy Girl, a lip stain by TheBalm, Stila's Paramour, and lip balms from Korres, Victoria's Secret, and Fresh.

Let's see what products Winter has in store :)

♥ Noelle

night in shimmering armor

2011-12-15T14:15:00.000-08:00

Top - ASOS (love!), Jeggings - BR, Nude pumps - Steve Madden, Necklace - J. Crew, Ring - YSL, Nails - Essie Limited Addiction, Lips - Revlon Fuschia

This is completely random, but have you seen What's Eating Gilbert Grape? I feel like it's a cult classic. A younger Johnny Depp and a much much younger Leonardo Dicaprio in their first leading roles. It always brings me to tears. Remember that scene with Gilbert and his mother towards the end of the film? "Your my knight in shimmering armor Gilbert." Gilbert corrects her and says, "It's knight in shining armor momma." She replies, "No, it's knight in shimmering armor. You shimmer and you glow."

I hope we all have a knight in shimmering armor in our lives. I know I certainly do :)

Random. I know!

So, this has nothing to do with my outfit. Except my top is super shimmery, and it almost glows in soft lighting. *Smiles and scrunches nose*

♥ Noelle

Oh, Pretty Things...

2011-12-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

An obligatory shopping post. It doesn't get much deeper than that! I placed an order on ASOS a couple of weeks back, went to H&M over the weekend, and used an old (I mean years old) gift card at TJ-Maxx. How I managed to save it for as long as I did, I have no idea. Luckily, everything in this post is under $60 dollars.

From ASOS:

My first time ordering, and I am super impressed!

Gorgeous natural suede envelope clutch in a cranberry maroon color. Since Lodis let me down, this was a perfect alternative. The brand is Pieces.

A shimmery pale gold dolman top. I love metallics for Winter.

The brand?

The great thing about ASOS is that they constantly update you about your package, so you're not left wondering where in the heck your order is. I will definitely order from the site again in the future.

H&M:

I saw this dress on Chloe Here, and have been looking for it ever since. Well, I finally found one! {Cue angels singing}

I've never been much of a snake print girl, you know I go more for the leopard. But the way this dress is cut? Great on petites! I just find it very flattering and bold.

TJ Maxx:

This is what happens during a work break.

Pretty Chanel inspired flats at a wonderful non-Chanel price (they were 24 dollars!)

The cap toe is like a patent leather, the cream part is suede. Love at first sight. They are also supremely comfortable.

The sparkly beaded bracelet was also super affordable, and I have been wanting one like it to wear out at night.

Will you be seeing all of these pretty things in outfits of the day? Oh yes you will ;)

Happy shopping,

♥ Noelle

Tis the season...

2011-12-11T19:12:00.000-08:00

Black lace top and glitter clutch - Express, Cardigan - LOFT, Skirt - Banana Republic, Patent pumps - Nine West, Necklace and Earrings - F21, Nails - OPI Royal Rajah Ruby

...To wear lots of sparkle and glitter, paint your lips and nails ruby red, play with textures, and tie a pretty bow on everything - including yourself.

This is what I wore Saturday night to take Christmas pictures with my fiance's family, followed by a raucous time at his work's holiday party.

Let's just say I needed my migraine meds this morning ;)

♥ Noelle

New Products I'm Loving

2011-12-08T09:45:00.000-08:00

Some people say that part of being a beauty blogger/addict is the excitement that comes from trying new products. For me, it's easy to find something I love and then continue to repurchase. I am a creature of habit, so when I find a great item I have a tendency to go back to it time and time again. On the occasion I venture out, more often than not I am disappointed. However, I have found three products that I am loving lately, and using them on a daily basis. In fact, these products are now part of my makeup routine.

I initially learned about these face wipes from Tiffany D. You girls all know her I'm sure. She claimed that these are the wettest makeup remover towlettes she has ever tried. Sold!

The Pond's wipes were on sale at Target, so I grabbed some. She is so right about how moisturizing they are. They are dripping wet! So wet that you feel like you've just bathed after using one. I am able to remove all of my makeup, even waterproof mascara or hard to remove mascara like Benefit's They're Real!

I really enjoy the quilted texture of each cloth. You really feel like it's removing every trace of makeup.

I will repurchase without a doubt.

I have been getting my eyebrows waxed by the same lady for a year and a half now. When I first started seeing her, our main goal was to fill in the sparse areas that had been overtweezed during my teen years. I also wanted to thicken them up, which has taken forever! My brows are still (over a year later) a work in progress, but I am very happy with them overall for the first time in my life. I love the shape of them. I get them waxed every three months, and I DO NOT TOUCH THEM AT ALL in between. I actually threw out my tweezers! She advised me to use a pencil or a powder to give the appearance of thickness, and I decided to try this on a whim:

Maybelline Define-A-Brow. I use the shade Dark Brown.

I lightly brush my brows with a spoolie. The pencil comes with a little comb on one end, but I don't find it useful. After I brush my brows with a spoolie, I use light strokes to fill in some spots where the hair is sparse. Then I comb and blend them again with the spoolie. I think the look is extremely natural.

My brows look thicker and fuller. I'm a happy gal!

With all of the dark lipsticks and stains I've been wearing this Fall, I decided to finally buy a lip liner. I never thought I needed one because my lips are naturally quite full. However, especially with the Revlon Lip Butters, I was noticing a lot of bleeding and messy smudges along my lower lip line. I needed a liner to keep it all in place. During the Sephora VIB sale, I spied this liner and was intrigued.

The unique part is that it goes on completely clear! According to TooFaced, "Borderline is a matte, colorless lip pencil designed to fill in and virtually erase vertical lip lines while it locks down your favorite lip products." Perfect! Why have I not seen more companies come out with something like this before? It's wonderful because you can use it with any and every single lip product you have. No worries about matching your lip pencil to your lipstick because it's colorless. I also agree that the tiny lines and cracks in your lips virtually disappear after using this. Brilliant!

Oh, I must mention this adorable little sample of Chanel's Beige perfume. How cute is it?! The scent is very pretty, softer than other Chanel perfumes I've tried.

Have you tried these products? What is something new to your routine that you're loving lately?

♥ Noelle