A Spot in the Shade

Goodebox May 2014

2014-06-16T20:51:00.001-04:00

As you may have read in a previous blog post of mine, I made the switch to all natural beauty products this year. This included me canceling my Birchbox subscription and opting for a natural alternative beauty subscription box. After researching for a while I decided to sign up for Goodebox. It is a little more pricey than Birchbox, it is $18 a month (Birchbox is $10) but I know that natural products are generally more expensive so I was willing to go a little higher.
This is only my second Goodebox, so I am still getting a feel for the brand and deciding if it is worth the $18. What I do love about this box is that I do get a lot of products that I can take on the go, like the individually wrapped makeup wipes I received in this box. I also love that they offer a coupon code for almost all products in the box, generally for 15-20% off.

Here is a look at what I got this month.

Blum Naturals - Daily Cleansing Towelettes (10 individually wrapped)

Beauty Without Cruelty- Sweet Lavender Hand & Body Lotion

Goddess Garden- Natural Sunscreen SPF 30

Primal Pit Paste- Natural Deodorant ....How funny does this sound?? It smells really great and I actually tried making something similar at home. I think this will be good to have in my purse for emergencies

Seventh Generation- Hydrating Boost Serum

Waxelene - Petroleum Jelly Alternative

Kit Harington and Lara Stone

2014-06-10T20:05:00.000-04:00

I've been waiting to share these images from Vogue's March 2014 issue featuring Game of Thrones' star Kit Harington until after this week's episode, so that we don't all have to picture that sad moment in Season 4's Episode 9. Although I have to say it was a lot more saddening in the book, at least in my opinion.

I really love these images shot by Peter Lindbergh. The pair looks really great together, don't they?

Photos via

NYC Apartment Envy: Micro Loft on the Upper West Side

2014-05-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

Does anyone else get completely depressed looking on Craigslist when they realize their budget can only get a few hundred square feet in NYC? I'm sure I'm not alone in this. A sad day of searching on Craiglist turned into me Googling small apartments and micro lofts for inspiration.

Now when I think of micro lofts I laugh a little picturing the movie Wanderlust and the "micro loft" Jen Aniston and Paul Rudd's characters move into. Their "micro loft" was really just an extremely small apartment with no functionality which they ended up leaving to live on a hippie commune. Let's just say that's not an option I'm willing to consider.

I found images of this micro loft online which is located on the Upper West Side, designed by Specht Harpman Architects. It's hard to believe it is only 425 square feet when there is so much built in. The stairs double as storage and the bed is in a cozy little nook above the kitchen. And my favorite part: the stairs leading out to a little grass covered landing!

Photos discovered via

Yes, this place is small but in order to make this place highly functional and even chic, I am sure it took a lot of $ to design. Thus, the search for small, functional, affordable apartments continues.

Now here's a thought: What if there could be several buildings full of these and reserve them for recent graduates/young professionals trying to get a salary and afford rent. It would be a lifesaver! Anyone know who I can I talk to about this idea?

X Lauren

Restaurant Review : Williamsburg's "Acqua Santa"

2014-05-26T10:06:00.002-04:00

While trying to escape the immense Memorial Day weekend crowds on Saturday in Williamsburg I stumbled across this cute little restaurant. Acqua Santa is located right of the Bedford - L stop at 556 Driggs Avenue. This adorable Italian restaurant has a garden party / European vineyard atmosphere. I was drawn in by the vines that covered the ceiling....and the sign that said "Any Pizza $10 until 6 pm". A cute place and affordable!

I was worried the pizza would be small, because really what can you get for $10 anymore at a restaurant, but I was wrong. The pizza is large enough to split with one or two other people (depending how hungry you are) and it was delicious. I personally favor brick oven pizza that has a thin crust and fresh ingredients. I got the "Ballerina" pizza which had greens, fresh grape tomatoes and onions on top of the usual tomato sauce and mozzarella (normally $15). The staff was super friendly and the food came out fast. Next time you're in the area, I highly recommend trying this place out! You can check out their website here.

The view that drew me in...Acqua Santa from the sidewalk

String lights and vines!

The whole ceiling is covered in vines.

Vintage looking "French garden party" chairs

There are tons of grapes growing! (They're real...we asked)

The "Ballerina" pizza

All images are my own

x Lauren

Blake Lively's Best Looks

2014-05-20T21:48:00.000-04:00

If you have been keeping up with fashion news from Cannes, you probably already know that Blake Lively has been killing it on the red carpet. Seriously, were there any other celebrities photographed? She looks unbelievable and each dress is better than the last. She has always been super stylish (although how can you not when you're cast to play Serena van der Woodesn?) but her latest looks are beyond flawless. I especially am in love with her Met Gala dress

Wearing Gucci in Cannes

Wearing Giambatista Valli Couture in Cannes

Wearing Chanel Couture in Cannes

Wearing Gucci in Cannes

I really need to try this hairstyle this summer

Wearing Gucci at the Met Gala

Are they even human? They are so perfect!

Healthy, Vegetarian Recipe: Spaghetti Squash

2014-05-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Spaghetti Squash. Spasta. Squashta.

Whatever you want to call it, it's amazing and guilt free! I make the "spaghetti" for this dish on Sunday and put it in the fridge to use all week. It is super easy to prepare and use to make quick, healthy dinners. Here is a guide to preparing the squash and a few recipes I like to make.

To Make Spaghetti Squash

You need:

Spaghetti Squash
Baking Sheet
Aluminum Foil
Large knife to cut through the squash
Spoon, Fork
Olive Oil
Salt and pepper

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Cover one baking sheet with aluminum foil. Cut the spaghetti squash in half length wise. Scoop out the seeds like you would a pumpkin. Drizzle olive oil on the inside halves and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Place the halves on the sheet with the inside facing down. Bake for 35-45 minutes.
Once baked, let it sit for a few minutes until it is cool enough to handle. Then flip over the halves and use your fork to rake the squash. The squash will start to come apart and resemble spaghetti.
Store in a container in the fridge until you are ready to use.

Recipe #1
Spaghetti Squash Marinara with Onion, Mushroom, Spinach & Goat Cheese
In a pan heat some oil (I like to use coconut or olive oil) and saute some mushrooms and onions. You can even add a little chopped garlic. When the onion and mushrooms are soft, add your desired amount of spinach. I like to add 2-3 large handfuls. Then add in your spaghetti squash and stir until heated. Remove from heat and add crumbled goat cheese. Stir. In a sauce pan, heat marinara sauce, or any other sauce you'd like and add it on top.

Recipe # 2
Spaghetti Squash Primavera
In a pan heat some oil (I like to use coconut or olive oil) and saute fresh, chopped garlic. Add to the pan several grape tomatoes, whole or halved width wise. Add a few handfuls of spinach. Once the tomatoes and spinach have wilted a bit add the spaghetti squash and heat until warm. Finish with grated Parmesan.

NYC Apartment Envy: Bette Midler's Penthouse

2014-05-15T08:21:00.000-04:00

The June 2014 issue of Architectural Digest arrived at the office on Monday and while I wish I owned every house featured, I am most envious of Bette Midler's Manhattan Penthouse. I have been daydreaming for days about this penthouse. It's on Fifth Avenue overlooking Central Park! I mean, this is just not real life for many of us but we can sure dream of a skyline view and a cozy plant-filled terrace. Read the article on Architectural Digest here.

The apartment is well worth millions just alone for the fantastic view!
(All photos from ArchitecturalDigest.com)

What a perfect spot to enjoy an iced vanilla soy latte!

Use This, Not That: Current Natural Skincare Routine

2014-05-13T09:04:00.000-04:00

This year I finally decided replace all of my skincare, haircare, makeup and body products to ones that are natural and/or organic. I have always preferred natural products, especially for skincare but let's be honest, they are a lot more expensive than a bottle of Neutrogena face wash. Since the beginning of the year I had begun to phase out all of my old products containing sulfates, parabens, chemicals and any products with ingredients I could not identify. I have officially replaced everything with natural alternatives and let me tell you, it was not so easy, especially when I realized I will most likely not be shopping at Sephora anymore.

This will be my first "Use This, Not That" post to outline which products I am now using. I will also be posting some DIY skincare "recipes" and even keep an eye out for some vegetarian recipes, as I have been experimenting with cooking quite a bit lately.

Here is a breakdown of what products I used to use and what natural products have replaced them.

Face Wash

What I was using before: ~~Cetaphil Cleanser~~
What I have replaced it with: Michael Todd True Organics Honey & Oat Cleanser , Full Size $22

The Honey & oat cleanser is really a favorite of mine. I have a full size and travel size so I can have it at all times. It is extremely gentle on sensitive skin, foams and removes makeup easily. What I love most about it is the fresh, orange scent.

Toner/Facial Spray

What I was using before : Burt's Bees Rose Water Toner- Which is natural and I still love! But since I ran out I wanted to try something new
What I have replaced it with: Heritage Store Lavender Water & Glycerin , 8 oz $8.99 (but you can get it on Vitacost at a discount! This is my referral link to get $10 off your first Vitacost order!
The lavender facial spray is calming and relaxing. I like to use it in the morning before I leave the house, as well as before and after yoga class. Oh, and take a look at their ingredients and tell me you're not intrigued!
Ingredients: Vor-mag Water (water that has been vortexed and magnetized to raise the energy to a higher vibration that we believe to be more beneficial), Vegetable Glycerin (USP Kosher) and Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil.

Face Serum

What I was using before: ~~Origins Mega Bright~~
What I have replaced it with: Shea Terra Organics Rose Hips & Carrot Perfecting Serum, $32
This is a serum and moisturizer for me. It's perfect for cold or warm weather and repairs damaged skin and improves acne.

Face Mask

What I was using before: ~~Murad Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask~~
What I have replaced it with: Shea Terra Organics Baobob & Coconut Water Dull Skin Face Masque, $24
I have to be honest, I bought this because of the packaging and how unusual it sounded. The product is in a glass bottle with a cork stopper (although now that I look at the website it seems they have changed the packaging recently). The product is in powder form and you mix with a little bit of water to form a liquid paste. It really does work and makes your face look glowy.

Are there any natural skincare products you love or think I should try? Share with me in the comments :)

How- To: Miranda Kerr Golden Globes Makeup

2013-01-20T16:56:00.000-05:00

The Golden Globes awards took place a week ago and the makeup that really stood out to me was Miranda Kerr's deep red look that perfectly matched her dress. She had posted a few photos on her Instagram that night of her makeup and I decided to recreate this look and break it down for you! Keep reading to find out how I recreated the bronze eye makeup, flushed cheeks and deep red-plum lip. (By the way, I know I look nothing like Miranda I am just simply copying the makeup!).

Step 1:Face
Start with a full coverage natural finish foundation, I used Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Makeup in 150 Buff. Then I used Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark Circle Roller which is a brightening under eye concealer.

Step 2: Eyes
I used Victoria's Secret Silky Eye Shadow Lustre in Between the Sheets (a shimmery medium bronze) all over the lid up to the crease and extended it slightly past the outer corner of the eye. As you can see in the pictures of Miranda she has a shimery steel shadow under her lower lashes so I used Urban Decay Pistol eyeshadow from the Naked 2 palette under the lower lash line and used Bootycall from the Naked 2 palette in the inner corners to brighten the eyes. My inner rim is lined with Urban Decay 24/7 liner in Bourbon (a deep brown). Then I finished the eyes with Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Mascara.

Step 3: Cheeks
To get the flush that Miranda has I used Rimmel powder blush in Autumn Catwalk on the apples of my cheeks.

Step 4: Lips
To get a similar color to Miranda I layered two products. I started with the Wet n Wild Perfect Pair Lip Wand in 123 Passion Plum (a deep plum lipstick) and topped it off with Victoria's Secret Lip Lacquer in Red Hot ( a shimmery bright red).

And that's it! A super simply way to recreate Miranda Kerr's beautiful Gold Globes makeup.

Burts Bees Rosewater Toner Review

2013-01-18T16:15:00.000-05:00

We all have heard that we should cleanse, tone and moisturize in our daily skincare routine. But to be honest, toners never seemed to be a necessity for me mostly because I never found one that I truly loved. That is, until now. I have been using the Burts Bees Rosewater Toner for the past month and a half and I don't know that I could live without it.

What it is:

The rosewater toner is a 100% natural toner to "remove lingering traces of dirt, oil and make-up"

What's in it:

rosa damascena (rose) flower water, alcohol denat., glycerin, centaurea cyanus (cornflower) flower extract, aloe barbadensis leaf extract, hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) leaf extract, yucca schidigera leaf extract

The rosewater and other natural ingredients are a gentle way to remove dirt and makeup after cleansing. The toner doesn't sting or irritate the skin. It smells great and I can see that it removes dirt and makeup that my cleanser did not remove.

How I use it:

Morning: In the morning i skip cleansing and just use the toner on a cotton pad as a cleanser to remove dirt, then follow with moisturizer.

Night: I use this after cleansing the skin to get a really good clean and then follow with moisturizer.

Who do I recommend this for?
Everyone! This toner is so gentle and non-irritating so it would be great for any skin type. Since the products are natural, they are gentle as opposed to other harsh toners with chemicals.

The toner is $11 for 8 fl. oz

.

Ipsy Glam Bag January 2013

2013-01-16T17:23:00.000-05:00

I am new to the Ipsy beauty subscription and this is my first bag. It costs $10/month for a cosmetics bag with 5 products. From what I can tell from this bag, you get more than your money's worth! The only thing I don't like is that Ipsy tells you all the products that will be in the bag before it even goes out. I would like a little mystery.

What's in the bag??

Pacifica Tuscan Blood Orange Body Butter
Nailtini polish in Frappe (this is a full size product which retails for $13)
Josie Maran Argan Oil
Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play
SOHO concealer brush (this is a full size brush that retails for $7.99)

Birchbox January 2013

2013-01-13T11:50:00.002-05:00

Harvey Prince Skinny Chic fragrance with notes of apple, mint and lotus blossom

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream packet (x2)

Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo (1.75 fl. oz.)

LASHEM Measurable Difference Lash Gel Serum for longer, thicker lashes

theBalm cosmetics Hot Mama blush with golden shimmer

Winter Sale Clothing Haul! (Victoria's Secret, H&M & Aldo)

2013-01-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favorite times of the year, when you can find great clothes at awesome prices. I barely wasted any time after Christmas to put my gift cards to good use. I ordered a few shirts and a skirt from Victoria's Secret, a blazer from H&M and shoes from Aldo. Check out the images below!

Victoria's Secret Tie-Front Blouse in Temptress Red
Original Price : $59.50
Sale Price : $34.99

Front of Blouse

Victoria's Secret Lace-Inset Wrap Top
Original Price : $49.50
Sale Price : $29.99

Victoria's Secret Short-Sleeve V-Neck Top
Original Price : $49.50

Sale Price : $34.99

Victoria's Secret Ruched Midi Skirt
Original Price : $39.50
Sale Price : $9.99

H&M Blazer
Original Price : $49.95
Sale Price : $15

Aldo Studded Flat (KHABOU)
Original Price : $80
Sale Price : $40

2012 Beauty Favorites

2012-12-31T20:11:00.000-05:00

It is the last day of 2012! I can't believe it! The year went by so fast and thankfully the world didn't end this year. I have put together a list of some of my favorite beauty products of 2012. These are products that I have discovered in 2012 and have become a staple in my beauty routine.

Skincare Favorites of 2012

Philosophy Take A Deep Breath moisturizer - This moisturizer is a gel cream formula and is supposed to infuse oxygen into your skin as well as protect from environmental pollutants. I really love this moisturizer and it is totally worth the $34 (even though I bought this with a coupon at Ulta). It's perfect for day or night. I was always a fan of the Hope in a Jar moisturizer in the winter but I love this one even more.

Burt's Bees Repair Serum - This serum is meant to repair and prevent aging around the eye area but thankfully I don't need to worry about that too much yet. I use a very small amount all over my face before moisturizing for extra hydration. It smells great and has tons of antioxidants.

Makeup Favorites of 2012

Face

Revlon Colorstay Foundation - I read so much about this foundation online and heard about how great it is so I had to try it out. It is a very heavy coverage foundation so I don't wear it that often. It is great for special occasions or for going out because it covers flawlessly, lasts a long time and photographs really well.

Tarte ReCreate Primer - I received a sample of this from one of the Sephora 500 point perk sets but I'm not sure if they discontinued it or not because I haven't been able to find a full size anyway. I'm usually not a huge fan of primers but I have so many samples I decided to try some out. This one has been my favorite so far. It makes the skin smooth for foundation and helps it last.

Garnier Anti-Dark Circle Roller - This is a roll-on under eye concealer. It doesn't cover too much but I don't have too dark of circles under my eyes anyway (probably because I sleep so much). This really brightens and illuminates. It is cooling and has caffeine in it to really wake up your eyes in the morning.

Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Radiant Blush in Fresh Love - I picked this blush up on a whim one time in Herald Square. I think I had a free underwear coupon and felt bad not buying anything so I got this. The color is a beautiful peachy pink which is very pigmented and perfect for everyday. You can tell in the image above just how much I've used it, there's a huge hole where you can see the pan!

Eyes

Wet n Wild Eyeshadow Trio in Walking on Eggshells - Like the Revlon Colorstay foundation I had heard a lot of great things about this product. For $2.99 it is one of the best eyeshadows I've ever used. The three neutral shimmer eyeshadows are great for a neutral, pretty look (think Serena van der Woodsen). I even got complimented when I wore it to the dentists office!

Maybelline Line Stiletto - I've always been intimidated by the cat eye and liquid liner but this product makes it SO simple. The color goes on really well and stays put. It is so easy to use and you really get such a precise line.

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes Mascara - This mascara gives good length, volume and definition to my very blonde eyelashes. Since my lashes are nearly non existent without mascara, I expect a lot out of any mascara. This one is very black and defines my eyes with only one coat.

Lips

Sephora Color Reveal Lip Balm - No fuss lip color for a girl on the go. This lip balm is glossy and turns a unique pink for your lips.

November 2012 Birchbox

2012-11-17T23:30:00.002-05:00

I received my November Birchbox a few days ago and I am pretty excited about everything. I feel like the boxes get better each month. This month I think all of the items I actually will use (most times I give something to my mom or friends). The box came with a cute little magazine gift guide for ideas what to buy for girls or guys.

Here are the items in my box:

Sample of Rose Anonyme Cologne Absolue: a sophisticated scent that doesn't border on an old lady scent (I know you know what I'm talking about)
Miracle Skin Transformer Vanish Instant Imperfection Correcter: I believe this is a primer. I used this once. It was ok. Definitely no miracle.
Oscar Blandi Pronto Texture & Volume Spray: I'm probably the most excited for this. I haven't tried it yet but I love texturizing sprays to separate and add volume to waves.
Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer in rose gold shimmer. This is a really pretty pink illuminator with a brush applicator.
Lifestyle extra: Chuao Chocolatier Potato Chip. I've never had a chocolate covered potato chip but I don't hate the idea.

Best Face Masks to Deep Cleanse, Exfoliate and Brighten

2012-11-02T21:10:00.000-04:00

Face masks are a way to relax and do something great for your skin. There's nothing better to me than putting on a face mask after a stressful day or week. Depending on my skin issue that day I use a mask to combat breakouts, to remove dry skin cells or to reveal brighter skin.

For Breakouts/Oiliness
The mask I like best for breakouts is Montagne Jeunesse Dead Sea Anti-Stress Mud Pac. It comes in a packet (that can definitely be used more than once) for $1.99 at Ulta. It deep cleanses the skin and is good for oily t-zones. I also really love the scent which kind of reminds me of cologne.

For Rough/Dry skin
When my skin is feeling dull or flaky I use the Murad Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask which is my all time favorite- I've been using it for well over 4 years! The texture of this mask is kind of like a cream and serum combined. It goes on clear and looks shiny with a cool, tingle. It then dries to look matte, which is when you rinse it off. The fruit extracts work to dissolve dead skin cells and leave the skin soft and bright. The masks come in a box with 6 packets for $22.50. The price may seem like a lot but you can easily get 3-4 uses out of each packet.

For a Dull Complexion
To add some life to my skin I use Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask which is an at-home version of Bliss Spa's famous oxygen facial. This mask is very unique. You apply the gel to a damp face and then wait as it develops into a foam. The foam kind of tickles as the gel starts to turn into a froth. It works quickly (five minutes!) to deliver vitamin c and oxygen to the skin which makes it perfect to use in the morning. The only downside to this product is that it is very costly at $54. I received this in a kit as a Christmas gift or else I don't think I ever would've spent so much money to try this. I love to use an oxygen moisturizer after this such as Bliss Triple Oxygen +C Energizing Cream or Philosophy Take A Deep Breath Oxygen Gel Cream Moisturizer.

Goop Birchbox October 2012

2012-10-11T21:45:00.005-04:00

This month Birchbox sent out an email asking if I wanted to opt in to receive a Goop themed Birchbox and so I did. My box came just the other day and I love everything in it. Scroll down past the images to read about the products I got!

In my box I received:

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum: The sample is really tiny (probably because the full size product retails for $79!) and I have a sample of this from Sephora so my mom already snagged this from me.

DDF Brightening Cleanser: Even if this cleanser would've just been in the box alone, I would've been happy. This cleanser is supposed to help fade discoloration and promote an even skin tone. The sample is 4.5 fl oz so it is much more than an average sample. It's about half the size of the full-size that retails for $38 so this sample has major value.

Orofluido Beauty Elixir: a small vial of hair serum that has several essential oils and smells like vanilla.

Per-fekt Beauty Lip Perfection Gel in Melrose: a one time use sample and the flower packaging is so cute I almost don't want to use it.

Mighty Leaf Teas in African Nectar, Earl Grey and Green Tea Tropical

First Day of Fall Nail Color: Orly Plum Noir

2012-09-22T19:18:00.000-04:00

Happy first day of Fall everyone! I for one am so excited Fall is here. I really love the cool air and the changing of the colors. Apart from my obsession with everything pumpkin flavored (lattes, cider) and pumpkin scented (pumpkin caramel latte candle from Bath and Body Works!) I really love the deep plum/wine trend. I especially love these dark colors for nails. I'm still trying to work up the courage to try a plum lipcolor.

Check out my current fave nail polish Orly Plum Noir. It's a deep purple which almost looks black but when the lights hit it you can see the plum color of it.

September Birchbox 2012: The September Issue

2012-09-16T21:24:00.001-04:00

I am very excited to announce the arrival of my first Birchbox! I had to wait several weeks to finally get my invite for the subscription, but I got it just in time for their "September Issue" themed box. Birchbox is a monthly beauty subscription site that costs $10 a month. Each month they send you a box full of beauty samples all within a theme

.

In my box this month I received: (See photos below)

Deluxe sample of Boscia BB Cream

I tried this for the first time today and so far I like it! Goes on nicely and the description card says it is

primer, serum, foundation and SPF in one. I'm a big fan of natural products so I'm hoping I like this.

Color Club nail polish in Insta-This

This polish is a bright cobalt blue.

Sedu Anti-Frizz Polishing Treatment with Pure Argan Oil

I haven't tried this yet but I have had good luck with most hair products that contain argan oil.

Sample of Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy La Fleur perfume

I know the original Viva La Juicy perfume is very popular but I never got around to trying it. Despite the name 'La Fleur' I don't find this perfume to be distinctively floral. It is a very light and fresh scent.

Twistband hair tie

My hair tie came in a goldish blonde color, I'm assuming intentionally based on my beauty profile I created. It's an interesting concept for a snag-free hair tie though I'm not sure I would buy more.

tili bag

This is a plastic zip lock bag with a cute blue and green leopard print which I can use to store makeup.

2 Tristan Prettyman digital downloads

For a beauty product junkie like myself this beauty subscription site is a cool way for me to try out new products and I'm already anticipating what will be coming for October!

International Beauty Finds: German Edition!

2012-08-21T18:05:00.000-04:00

I spent two weeks in Germany this summer and of course could not resist buying some beauty products. It turns out I really like everything I bought. Keep reading to see the products along with a mini review.

1. Artdeco eyeshadow base
Keeps eyeshadow from wearing off or creasing. I'm not sure why there is a scent but it smells good!

2.Artdeco Soft Eye Liner Waterproof
A great eyeliner for the waterline that lasts all day.

3.Artdeco Perfect Teint Concealer
This has the same concept as the YSL Touche Eclat but has a drier consistency. It does cover pretty well.

4. Artdeco All in One Mascara
You know you have a good mascara when your boyfriend actually comments on your lashes. This mascara lengthens and separates. Just might be my current favorite mascara at the moment.

5. Essence Pure Teint Compact Powder
It has an antibacterial 'clearderm complex' that fights spots & blackheads. It really does work. I wear it almost everyday either alone or to set tinted moisturizer.

6.Essence myskin Refreshing Cleansing Wipes Lime & Cucumber
I was obsessed with these during my stay in Germany to remove makeup. They are so refreshing and my skin looked great after using these wipes. I'm really upset I didn't buy a few packets to take home with me.

International Beauty Finds: English Edition!

2012-08-14T20:00:00.001-04:00

If you don't know already, I was studying abroad/ interning in London this summer! Between interning at the Daily Mirror, attending class at the London College of Fashion and visiting a fair share of pubs, I managed to pick up several beauty products within the month I was there. Here are the ones I love.

1. Elemis freshskin peachy perfect gentle face wash

Rinses of all makeup and leaves skin feeling soft
2. Elemis freshskin super boost moisturising serum

Light and not sticky

3. balance Me pure skin face wash skin-balancing cleanser

It's 98.8% natural and is gentle

4. Collection 2000 Cream Puff Moisturising Lip Cream in Fairy Cake

Colorful, moisturizing and smells delicious

5. Limited Collection Lip & Cheek Stain from Marks and Spencer in Morello Cherry

Gives a naturalflush to cheeks and lips

Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Lacey Lilac with Gold Accent Nail

2012-05-19T21:12:00.000-04:00

Nails painted with Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear in Lacey Lilac

Accent nail:

Top half of nail painted with Essie Shift Power and Sephora by OPI top coat in Only Gold For Me

Met Gala Beauty Trend: Dark Lips

2012-05-07T23:43:00.000-04:00

One beauty trend that was apparent on the Met Gala's red carpet was dark, bold lips. While it is tough for the average gal to pull this trend off on a daily basis, these celebs looked amazing!

Would you try this look for a night out?

My favorite Met Costume Gala Gowns

2012-05-07T23:36:00.000-04:00

Instead of doing homework tonight I tuned in to watch the live stream of the Met Gala red carpet on Vogue.com. This is the night in fashion where anything goes and the more you stand out, the better. Here are my favorite looks of the night.

Karolina Kurkova in Rachel Zoe

Kate Bosworth in Prada

Candice Swanepoel in Rag & Bone

Gwyneth Paltrow in Prada

Leighton Meester in Marchesa

Beyonce in Givenchy

Product Rave: Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner

2012-05-02T22:33:00.000-04:00

I am usually not one to be a loyal customer to my shampoo and conditioners. There are just so many choices I never go back to repurchase the same product when I run out. However, the Organix Moroccan Argan Oil shampoo and conditioner have won me over. Basically my hair just loves this stuff. I have never noticed such a difference in my hair when using any other shampoo and conditioners.

I first bought this product during the summer because I thought I should jump on the moroccan oil band wagon and my friend Kate had recommended the Organix brand to me. The smell is what sold me and the fact that it acts as a protectant against heat and UV damage. After getting my hair cut in August, I continued to use the shampoo and conditioner for several months and my hair stayed so strong. I usually start seeing split ends a few weeks after a haircut, but that didn't happen while using these.

I decided to buy a cheaper shampoo after running out in the Fall and my hair went back to its brittle state and insane amounts of shedding. I recently decided to repurchase the Organix and I am so glad. My hair does not fall out as much and it looks healthier already. I even bought travel sizes to take to London with me!

If you have hair that is prone to damage or dryness I would seriously recommend this shampoo and conditioner!