The Boww

BOWW LOVES DENIM SKIRTS & HATS

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 02:27:00 +0000

Skirt // Top // Hat // Booties- Similar & similar here // Purse - Coach

I'm predicting this summer that denim skirts will be the new overall. Yup. Remember when overalls were everywhere and I just NEEDED to get my hands on the perfect pair? Well...my guess is that denim skirts will make a quick come back this summer. I found this denim skirt from Forever21 and the reviews were great so I decided to give it a try. The fabric is super soft and the shape is flattering. I am also loving this A-Line skirt from Asos but decided to go with the one from Forever21 solely on price. Forever21 didn't disappoint and I know this skirt will be on my summer wardrobe rotation.

All photos by the lovely Meredith Amadee

BOWW LOVES ROMPERS

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:03:00 +0000

Romper // Necklace // Purse-Coach // Shoes // Sunglasses

Ahh...rompers the lazy fashionista's go to.

Don't know what to wear? Romper.

Not feeling so skinny? Romper.

Have your lazy bones on? Romper.

Too much champs last night? Romper.

Okay okay, I think you get it. Honestly I love rompers because you look put together even if you're not feeling put together. With all the festivities happening this week, a romper is a perfect go-to to have in your closet. I actually have a couple of outfits laid out for this weekends festivities. With so much going on with work and play, it is easy to get frustrated with your wardrobe while trying to rush out the door. I decided to "pack" for the weekend so I can be prepared in a flash. Okay maybe not a "flash" but quicker than normal. And guess what I decided to pack? Yah...a romper & now rainboots! (grr...silly rain!)

Photos by Meredith Amadee :)

FRIDAY FINDS: WM PHOENIX OPEN & SUPERBOWL

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Wed, 28 Jan 2015 09:00:00 +0000

This post is a bit early due to the upcoming events...or late..however you want to look at it?!

The weather has cooled down, the champagne is iced, and our outfits are picked out. Yup, the WM Phoenix Open is upon us and us Arizonan's are ready to embrace it with a big fat hug. However, not only will Tiger Woods make an appearance this Phoenix Open we also have the Superbowl in our fine ass state. This weekend has been one that many of us have been preparing for. I barley ate Christmas cookies because we all knew that those extra pounds wouldn't look good in my WM Phoenix Open outfit, like duh. So hold onto your chonies this weekend because the festivities are endless and it could get a little cray.

Tiger makes a come back, Drake will be performing at the W, and PUPPIES. Yes you heard me. PUPPIES. Freaking puppies will be taking over downtown Phoenix and I couldn't help but pee a little bit in excitement. I put together a quick little list of some events that are worth your time and $$.

Verizon Super Bowl Central // Free and family friendly for those with little babes. Located in Downtown Phoenix, there will be many activities such as live music and a rock wall. The NFL Experience is also located Downtown and Bud Light's House of Whatever.

Maya // Big Sean, Tiesto, & Kaskade - Oh My-A! Maya Nightclub in Old Town Scottsdale has a jammed packed schedule this weekend and each headliner will not disappoint.

WM Phoenix Open // This annual event held at the TPC Scottsdale is the only golf event that you will ever catch me at. Tiger is making an appearance this year so just another reason to day drink while pretending to be interested in golf. The Birds Nest is the Phoenix Open's concert throughout the weekend and I've heard it's always a good time.

DirectTV Super Fan Fest // Imagine Dragons, Calvin Harris, & Snoop Dogg are just a few of the performers who will be playing in Glendale, AZ. Tickets are available here.

So, start saving those pennies for Uber rides, you're gonna need it.

BOWW LOVES (HATES) WEDDING PLANNING

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Fri, 23 Jan 2015 00:34:00 +0000

Wedding planning..ahh yes. It is a love hate relationship. Between all the contracts, e-mails, deposits and pinterest pages I sometimes have a hard time enjoying this whole process. I know I should enjoy this because it is a once in a lifetime opportunity but the possibilities are endless. I am just looking forward to when the bigger decisions are finished and I can just relax. With so much inspiration, the entire process has become overwhelming. I take wedding planning breaks whether it be a day, week, or even a month. Well cheers to our marriage and this crazy year, 2015 is going to be a great one!

BOWW LOVES FANATICS

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 19:34:00 +0000

It shouldn't be any surprise that we love football in our house. From September to the end of January our weekends are filled with plans around the games. Now that the Green Bay Packers are headed to take on the Seattle Seahawks we have even more reason to celebrate! First and foremost, I must tell you that I am a Cardinals fan all the way. Yes, I was even a fan all those years we didn't come close to the playoffs. However, my future husband is a Green Bay Packers fan and I like to join in on the fun while he is cheering them on. So since my Cardinals didn't make it past the first round of playoff games, I am stuck rooting with the cheese heads right now. With NFL playoffs in full effect I have created a look based around a NFL jersey. I chose a male jersey because I like the way it fits better than a women's jersey. To finish off the cheese head gear I went with jeans for a casual Sunday look and gold accessories. So if you're in the need of a NFL jersey this playoff season, check out Fanatics for all your sports gear needs.

Coat // Shoes // Jeans // Sunnies // Jersey // Handbag

FRIDAY FINDS: THE YARD AT FARMER ARTS DISTRICT

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Fri, 09 Jan 2015 15:47:00 +0000

When I heard months ago that Fox Restaurant Concepts (FRC) was opening their new restaurant in Tempe, I was giddy but a little sad. Their new concept on Farmer was just STEPS away from my old Tempe condo. Soo... you're telling me if I stayed a little bit longer I would be able to hop, skip, and jump myself into fluffy pretzel bites and oozy gooey melted cheese!?! You may sniff out a little bitterness but I can't help it, I'm jealous. If you're from the Phoenix area and haven't heard of Fox Concepts, I'm here to welcome you to a whole new line of restaurants. These concepts will give you a great excuse to skip the grocery store next week. And if you aren't from the Phoenix area, don't worry..they have a few restaurants out of state.

Photo courtesy of Fox Restaurant Concepts

Culinary Dropout in the Farmer Arts District is FRC's newest creation that recently opened in early December. Besides the phenomenal food and tasty cocktails the one thing that Fox does right every single time is the decor and Culinary Dropout is no exception. They provide a sense of warmth that draws the patron in and makes them feel at home. The Yard on Farmer is FRC's largest concept to date and has their largest kitchen. Once a furniture showroom this space is now filled with games, a stage for live music, and of course food and drink that satisfies any foodie.

Also in the district there is a ballroom called the Showcase Room. Here you can have a wedding reception, birthday party, private event and food catered by your favorite Fox Concept. Brandon and I may or may not be having our wedding reception here in November. ;) Also, there are other retailers such as the Madison Improvement Club (my fav!) and Over Easy. Over Easy is set to open in a couple of months and is a favorite for breakfast connoisseurs.

Photo courtesy of Fox Restaurant Concepts

Inside The Coop

^The Coop: Additional seating but also a perfect place to host a private party.

So if you didn't have weekend plans yet, I've got you covered. Catch a spin class at Madison then grab lunch, drinks, and some games at the Yard. If your dining at any of the Culinary Dropout locations I recommend the pretzels, fried chicken, and any of their specialty cocktails.

xx

BOWW SO HARD

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 12:27:00 +0000

Free People Dress // Heels // Lips - Pink Kiss by Bobbie Brown

Happy NEW YEAR Y'all! I've missed you and I hope you missed me. I have a funny story about this outfit here. Well, Brandon and I were running to the mall before Christmas Eve dinner for some last minute shopping (whoops!). & I walked out of the house in a completely different outfit. I was wearing a long black maxi dress and a faux fur coat. However, I didn't feel comfortable in my outfit at ALL. I kept tripping over my maxi dress and the slits in the dress were driving me nuts! So, since we had about an hour before dinner I ran into Macy's and grabbed this Free People dress. I had been eying this Free People for a couple of weeks and I knew it would work with the heels I was already wearing. I tried on a couple of different dresses but this was perfect. I was bit chilly because the dress is thin, but I know it carry me into the summer.

Remember when I would blog like almost everyday? Ya me too. After Brandon and I got engaged, I didn't think much would change but I was wrong. My extra time that I have away from work is busy spent hanging with family, cleaning, eating, pooping, and wedding planning. You know, just the normal fiancé stuff. I'm really trying to enjoy being engaged to my best friend and not miss these moments.

I want to make sure every post is personal, funny and just perfect. So-- I apologize that I'm not blogging as much but I promise to keep you entertained & feeling bowwutiful. Because that is what I'm here for.

XXOOOXOXO

BOWW LOVES CHRISTMAS SWEATER

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Sweater-- Nordstrom Rack (it was a steal!) // Jeans // Booties // Lip

Hi everyone, that little one in the photo is my step daughter Alayna. She has been standing on the sideline for many photoshoots and this time she decided to get in front of the camera. This girl rocks and all she wants for Christmas is here two front teeth! ;)

BOWW LOVES BLACK MAXI

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Sweater - Urban Outfitters (old) similar sweater here // Dress underneath-similar // Shoes (on sale!!) // Lips // Necklace - H&M (old)

These photos were taken before my families annual pre-Thanksgiving party. Thanks to my sissy for taking these fun photos. I wanted to be comfortable for the fiesta so I knew a maxi dress would be the perfect 'hostess' attire. I threw on my fancy sweater from Urban Outfitters and my new shoes! I was so excited when I found these mules on sale at Nordstrom. I had spotted them awhile ago and it was a sweet surprise when I found them on the sale rack!

Hope everyone is having a great week getting back to work from the long weekend.

BOWW LOVES GRAND CANYON STATE

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Wed, 26 Nov 2014 15:58:00 +0000

When I was asked why I love Arizona so much, I couldn't help but think of just a few things: The weather, Old Town Scottsdale, that small town feeling in a big city, Arizona State, Mill Ave, local restaurants, friends, monsoon season, no snow shoveling, good looking people, great shopping, Arizona Cardinals, mountains, desert, the location to California or Las Vegas, small local businesses, Mexican food, Grand Canyon, downtown living, cactus, friends, year round pool parties, great highways, easy commuting, local charity work, Arizona Biltmore, Waste Management Open, American pride, Fox Concepts, and of course family.

Yah...just a few reasons. Born and bred in this great state, I'm a little biased however there is so much to love. There are people all over the country that come here for college and there is a good reason why a portion of them stay. Arizona has some of the best highways I have ever seen and it takes about 30 minutes to get anywhere around the city. Although our Downtown Phoenix is slowly coming alive there are great little pockets such as Gilbert, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Glendale. Each of these cities provide their own uniqueness to the state which just gives me even more reason to get out and explore. Although our sports teams are limited with their championship titles, Arizonans are loyal to our teams such as the Diamondbacks, Cardinals, Suns, and Coyotes.

Tired of the Arizona heat? You are only a few hours away from another location for a perfect weekend getaway. However, with all the reasons I listed above why would you even want to leave?

BOWW LOVES ZARA COAT

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Top - Similar // Coat - Zara (last year) // Skirt - Similar // Shoes -Similar

A little outfit action from my brother's birthday dinner last week! Thank goodness it's a short week! I have family and friends coming into town and I'm wedding dress shopping this weekend. It's going to be a great one! Woohooo! xx

FRIDAY FINDS // 5two3 GRAND OPENING

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 19:47:00 +0000

// All images from 5two3 //

When a sorority sister of mine told me that she was opening her own clothing/accessory line I couldn't be more excited for her. Just a few short years later, Brittany and her co-founder announced that they will be opening a store front in Old Town Scottsdale. 5two3 headbands and pants are made for the woman who wants to feel sexy and fun. A portion of their proceeds go to women in repressed countries who are starting their own apparel businesses. 5two3 is having their grand opening tonight in Old Town from 5-8 p.m. This event will be fun and a perfect excuse to sip on some champs & shop. Come help support my girlfriend and their local Arizona business! xx

5two3

6957 E. 5th Ave

Scottsdale, AZ 85281

BOWW LOVES FURR

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 10:00:00 +0000

Pony tail girl // Navy // Shaggy Ivory // Ivory Furry // Heavy Collar // Two Toned // Rocker Chick // Cheetah

Don't throw red paint on me PETA lovers, I just love a good fur coat. Since the weather has dropped in the Grand Canyon State I've been an eying a fur coat. I've been on the hunt just about every day. It's almost like a sickness I've caught. Every other day I'm finding a new one I want. Any of these furry friends will get you through the holidays this year. Wear a fur coat with a simple tee and skinny jeans or over your holiday dress. The fur coat adds a little funk, glam, and sophistication to any outfit. Throw on some layered necklaces and keep your make up simple. When you are wearing such a statement piece, I like to keep other elements of my look clean.

Which one is your favorite? I can't decide...so help me please! xx

BOWW LOVES PORTLAND

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000

Nikes // Leggings // Sweater // Purse

Brace yourself, this is long...

I'm pretty sure the earth started to shake when I was running at the gym today. Yup, you can tell that I had a good time in Portland last weekend. Portland surprised me because it wasn't what I was expecting. But really, I didn't know what to expect. A bunch of hipsters walking around drinking coffee? ...Okay, ya I saw that. I even saw a whole store just for men's underwear. A WHOLE store?!

I did a bit of research before we arrived in Portland from friends and other bloggers so I had an idea where we wanted to go. We stayed at the Hotel Monaco which was awesome. The decor is unique, they are pet friendly, and even have a free wine hour (come to mamma). Our hotel also had a free rental bike program which helped us bop around the city.

If you're in Portland, check these out:

Vooodoo Doughnuts // This is a must in Portland but be ready to wait in line. Also, there is a homeless shelter near by so there are a lot of homeless people around the shop.

Bijou Cafe // This is located near Voodoo Doughnuts and it is amazing. There will be a wait on the weekends, but its worth it. Fresh ingredients & the best biscuits & gravy I've ever had.... (queue the drool from my mouth)

Imperial // Located in downtown, we stumbled in here for breakfast one day. The corn cakes were so yummy it's silly.

Salt & Straw // All I have to say is that I am very upset that there isn't a location in Arizona. --You need to try this, enough said.

Ace Hotel // Shown in the photos above. A funky boutique hotel that is a must to see. People are lounging drinking their coffee and reading the paper. Also, there is a photobooth located in the lobby of the hotel that is a perfect excuse to take funny photos.

Stumptown Coffee // Portland has great coffee but this is the signature brew that you shouldn't miss. They have locations throughout the city but we stopped by the one right next to the Ace Hotel.

Zenny & Zuke's // This is located right down the block from the Ace Hotel. We were hangry the morning we stopped by the Ace Hotel and we picked this place on a whim. The fresh ingredients didn't disappoint and I would love to come here again.

Portland City Grill // This has a great view of the city! We stopped in here Friday afternoon for drinks and appz.

Deschutes Brewery // My dad loves their beer so we were happy to find out that they are located in Portland. Also, their food is pretty tasty and pairs perfectly with their brews.

Yo Vintage // Just one of the cute vintage shops we stumbled upon on Burnside St.

Henry's Tavern // A perfect spot to grab great lunch and watch Sunday football.

Imogene + Willie // Denim lovers haven.

Tanner Goods // Not quite like Jimmy Fallon's leeeattthherman but it's pretty good. ;)

Also, every where we had breakfast was amazzing. I couldn't get over the food...hence the earth shaking when I got back home. I would recommend anyone to head to Portland for a weekend getaway. It's a perfect excuse to eat, drink, and create memories.

BONOBOS + THE BOWW

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 16:16:00 +0000

Dress // Clutch // Lips // Jacket // Flats

Bonobos recently asked me to come up with a women's look that would compliment their new men's suit collection. I found out about the brand Bonobos while shopping at Nordstrom with my dad and fiancé. The sales representative recommended the pants to my boys and I couldn't thank her enough. My boys looked gooooooooood. Bonobos was started because the founders couldn't find that perfect pant that fit well. Pants were too baggy or too tight and instead of sitting around waiting for the right pant to come, they decided to make them themselves.

Bonobos strive to make great quality clothing and my fiancé Brandon tells me all the time that he loves his pants (and I can't complain because he looks hot in them).

The best way a woman can compliment a man in a suit is to wear a nice dress. This tweed dress from J.Crew is a perfect combination with the gentlemen's tweed jacket. I tied up the look with an oversized gray trench from Zara and matching nude oxfords. The oxfords are an unexpected choice from a pump and I think your man will be pleasantly surprised. Since you have a bold dress and coat, tone down the look with a subtle handbag and make up. When you're hanging out with a hottie in Bonobos you won't be wearing much lipstick anyway. ;)

BELLY BOTTOMS

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 15:58:00 +0000

Jeans- similar // Top // Purse-Coach // Flats- Similar // Sunnies - Dita

I purchased these wide leg pants a couple of years ago in an attempt to make my legs look longer and skinnier. Yet, after a couple of washes they became too short to wear heels with them. So there they sat, at the back of the jean drawer just sad, lonely, and no body to wear them. However lately, I've been reaching for them to mix things up from the normal skinny. Despite the length issue, these Gap jeans are super comfy and perfect for casual Fridays at the office.

Hope everyone had a wild and safe Halloween weekend, I'm pooped on this Monday but at least it's a short week for me! We are headed to Portland on Friday! Yahoo. Any Portland suggestions?!

FRIDAY FINDS // HALLOWEEN

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 10:30:00 +0000

HAPPY HALLOWEEN Bo0o0o0WwwW-utiful babes. So, did you decide to dress up? Or are you planning to stay in and pass out candy?! There are tons of events going on around Phoenix so I thought I would give you some ideas on what the heck to do tonight. If you haven't already made up your mind, don't you worry-I've got ya covered. Notice, they're no scary movies on this list because well, I don't like them and so I'm not going to encourage watching them...case closed.

1 // Halloween Haunted Hotel Ball -- There will be three different rooms set up in the hotel playing different types of music, so you can pop around and mix up your night all in one location. Also, the party continues on Saturday at the pool! Woo! I would recommend staying at the hotel and making a weekend of it.

2 // Crescent ballroom -- This is the best venue in downtown Phoenix and they have a Halloween bash every year! It's only 5 bucks but you must be wearing a costume. So throw on a suit and some kitten ears and be a #uberkitten, but don't forget to bring some water to pass out.

3 // Pass out candy -- Don't be scrooge this Halloween and lock all your doors and turn off the lights. (BOOO) If you don't have decorations set up, don't worry-- the kids won't mind. Grab some candy and pizza and wine for yourself and call it a night.

4 // Dance your pants off -- Brew up some holiday cocktails & dance to the monster mash. #ITWASTHEMASH

Whatever you do, be safe. Things could get dangerous even if you stay in because those dance moves can get a little scary.

Stay connected with me this weekend on Instagram, & have a fab weekend! xoxo

DATE NIGHT

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 15:24:00 +0000

Sweater // Trousers // Clutch // Mules

Brandon and I have been engaged for a month now! Wheww it already flew by! We try to go on at least 1 date a week and that means I need to get my Date Night wardrobe updated. Now that the weather is finnnally cooling down (a little) I've slowly pulled out my sweaters. The red trousers add a pop of romance and you can even wear this at the office straight to happy hour. Also, if ya follow me on insta you can tell that we just went on a date last night.

Since Halloween is only a few days away, have you decided what you are going to wear? I've changed my mind, ohhhhh about a million times! I think I have my Halloween costume confirmed but if things change I might just reach for my quick/simple costume ideas here.

Happy hump day boww-utiful babes and thanks for reading. xoox

JOE'S BOOTIES

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Mon, 27 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000

Booties // Pants // Top- Zara old (similar here)

Provide people with the unexpected.

HALLOWEEN COSTUMES

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 09:00:00 +0000

Crazy Cat Lady: Cat Tee // Black Maxi // Wig // Glasses // Notebook // Shot glass

Hawaiian Punch: Dress // Converse // Boxing Gloves

Stumped on what to be this Halloween? Don't worry, I gotcha covered. If you haven't taken notice from all your Facebook house party invitations, Halloween is on a Friday this year. This means that it's time to step up your costume game. For those of us who don't want to spend your whole paycheck at the Halloween costume store we need to get a little creative. Honestly, this is the best part of Halloween, you can be whatever you want to be! Here are two ideas that are simple and you might even have some of the items laying around the house...ya crazy lady.

Crazy Cat Lady // No one aspires to become a crazy cat lady when they're older, so why not become one for Halloween?! Grab your funniest cat tee shirt (you can find some nice ones at Goodwill) and a gray wig. Get into character by adding glasses, a cat cup, and your beloved cat notebook. Bonus Point: Convert the catnip bag into your purse for the night & hand out little snacks to your favorite little kittens. Meeoowwwww

Hawaiian Punch // Why not be Hawaiian Punch while you're sipping on that jungle juice/kool-aid at the Halloween house party!? This play on words costume may get some of your fellow party goers guessing, but it's a great way to get the conversation going. Bonus Point: For that added punch, slap on a black eye.

FRIDAY FINDS // PHOENIX EVENTS

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Fri, 17 Oct 2014 13:19:00 +0000

If you live in Phoenix, it is no secret that October tends to be the month that is jammed packed with events. I feel like every weekend there is something to do! I just wished there were more Saturdays in October. Pumpkin patches, weddings, festivals, and local events start to take over my calendar in the fall. However, what do you expect? The weather is finally bearable therefore, we have to take advantage!

Today, I wanted to share with you two of my favorite events coming up this weekend, the Arizona Taco Festival and Pineapple Triangles, AZ Share That You Care event.

First, let's talk tacos. I love tacos. Beef tacos, chicken tacos, pork tacos, veggies tacos... you know name it and I'll probably want it in my belly. Brandon and I make tacos at home at least once a week. They are simple and easy to throw together yet, you can get really creative with them. Full disclosure, I have never attended the festival yet, it sounds blissful. My favorite foods groups are tacos, chips, and margs so this festival just speaks to me. So if you are looking for something different and not too expensive (only $2 tacos!) than you need to head over to the Arizona Taco Festival this weekend.

Second, another one of my favorite events is put together from the ladies of Pineapple Triangle. Remember when I went to their event earlier this year? Well, they are throwing a bigger event this Saturday. The ladies of Pineapple Triangle are committed to bring local artists and the community together in their AZ Share That You Care event. A portion of the proceeds go to the local artists choice therefore you can shop and help out some great causes! This will be a perfect October Saturday because there will be live music, a food truck, and shopping. Be sure to check out this lovely event and help support our local artists.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend and thanks for reading! xxoo

TELLURIDE

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 16 Oct 2014 13:00:00 +0000

Coat // Purse - similar // Leggings // Top // Beanie

Throwing it back to this weekend in Telluride. We were there looking at wedding venues and it started snowing on us! Yup, that's snow in the air. It was so windy and cold when we were taking these photos but I knew they would be a complete change from my previous style post. If you can't tell from my face in these photos I was freezing my booty off.

Brandon and I are really excited because we decided to have a small destination wedding in Telluride then have a big reception in Phoenix. It was a happy medium because Brandon preferred a smaller wedding and of course I wanted a big one. Although we picked our Telluride date we still have a lot to do!

Also, what is everyone doing this weekend? I have a couple of fun events going on this weekend that I'm excited to share with you on my Friday Finds! Stay tuned.

xoxo

GUEST POST // THE LADY IS A VAMP

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Mon, 13 Oct 2014 14:18:00 +0000

Good Monday morning my loves! I am excited to share that I have a guest post from one of my good friends, Jordan. Whenever I am looking to up my beauty game I reach for Jordan's blog, Love That Lipstick. She has an eye for those hidden beauty buys and keeps us up with current beauty trends. Since it's officially fall we need to dust off those sweaters, boots, and our dark lipsticks. So kick aside your Barbie pink lipstick, it is time to darken up....

Fall is all about transitioning to the dark side. I couldn't be more thrilled for the upcoming months, especially because my favorite fashion and makeup trends make a comeback. There's something mysterious and sexy (yes, I said it) about vampy lips that I can't get enough of.

From left to right: NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Copenhagen. Rimmel Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick by Kate Moss in 107. Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate Moss in 09. MAC Rebel. MAC Media.

NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams are excellent quality for the price. I love the silky, long-wearing formula, as well as the extensive range of colors. These go on smooth and creamy, but completely dry down after applying. Copenhagen is nice burgundy hue-- perfect for this time of year!

Rimmel Lasting Finish Mattes were created by Kate Moss, so you know they've gotta be good! I wouldn't say these are completely matte, as they do have a subtle sheen. Nevertheless, they're affordable and do the job. 107 is the perfect deep berry shade and an absolute must-have.

Rimmel Lasting Finish in 09 was also created by Kate Moss, but isn't part of their matte collection. This shade is smooth, creamy, and looks absolutely luscious on the lips. Slightly lighter than 107, it's a gorgeous raspberry color that makes for a smooth transition to fall.

MAC Rebel is a staple in my collection. It's a Satin plummy shade I whip out every year. Something about this lipstick compliments every skin tone, and I'm absolutely in love with it. I'd definitely check this one out the next time you're near a MAC counter!

MAC Media is the newest addition to my collection. It's similar to NYX Copenhagen, but not nearly as matte. Media is a Satin finish and definitely the darkest lip color I own. If you're comfortable rocking this deep reddish-purple hue, give it a go!

P.S. Did anyone get my Spice Girls reference in the title?

PINTEREST PERFECT

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 22:05:00 +0000

I am not the type of girl who ever dreamt of her wedding day. I never even thought about marriage until I met Brandon. Yet, it is so easy to get caught up in the perfection of the details with social media tools like Instagram and Pinterest. For awhile I stopped using Pinterest because I couldn't stand it. My life was never going to be that pretty or perfect, so why try or even look? However, when Brandon and I started talking about getting engaged, I started to dream about the way he would ask me. Websites like Youtube or How He Asked started to consume me. Will he sing me a song? Will he have a hidden photographer? Will he pop out of a box butt ass naked? I mean the possibilities are endless...

Yet, the morning of the proposal we were hung over from bottomless mimosas from the previous day, my hair was greasy and I was wearing tennis shoes for walking around the city. I wasn't looking tooo hot, if you know what I mean. Yet, the proposal was cute, sweet and just perfect. There was nothing flashy or fancy about it, it was just a straight down and dirty proposal. Now that I am scanning through Pinterest to get inspiration for our upcoming nuptials, I have to take a deep breath. Pinterest is a fairytale land and not all of those dreams will come true and I have to realize that. Life isn't Pinterest perfect, and I'm okay with that. The only thing that really matters is that I will be marrying my best friend, and that my friend, is perfect.

Xoxo

P.s. Are you following me in fairytale land? I mean Pinterest?

THIS IS HOW WE DO FALL

noreply@blogger.com (marfarae) — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 14:07:00 +0000

Romper- Similar here // Shoes-Similar // Purse - Coach // Sunnies

I love fall as much as the next girl, however here in Arizona it really doesn't feel like fall until Halloween. Therefore, I am taking advantage of end summer sales and snatching up some last minute items to sneak in while it's still hot. I picked up this romper while we were in San Diego at the Urban Outfitters downtown. We stopped in the store not long after Brandon proposed so I thought this feminine and flirty piece was perfect for the occasion. Also, the best part it was only $30. Urban has a great selection of dresses and rompers on sale to slowly ease you into fall.