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Mid-Week Blues

Out of any OOTD I've posted thus far on this blog, this one is probably the one that's the most 'me'. That's not to say my other posts don't reflect my tastes and personal style, because they certainly do. This outfit in particular though, I don't know, it just makes me insta-happy :) I'm a frequent sporter of cobalt blue, but hardly ever teal to be honest and the rich color in this ensamble intrigues me. The curvy shapes in the skirt and the peekaboo back of the top take this look over the top, oozing of femme. Moving on to styling: the reason I chose the casual ballerina bun hairstyle (inspired by Katie Holmes) is because the back detailing of the top deserves to be shown off, therefore an updo of some kind (I think) is appropriate.

*As I've said before, I'm not a makeup expert; thus why I don't toss beauty advice out there a whole lot. However, I think this look: subtle blue smokey eye by Tiffany D would pair very nicely with this outfit; should you be so bold as to test it out. [Note: You can follow Tiffany on Twitter at @TiffanyLD!]

The Breakdown:

TOP: UO Sparkle & Fade Gigi Blouse in Black, $69.00

NECKLACE: Anthropologie Atributes Necklace in Blue, $48.00

SKIRT: ModCloth Sashay Away Skirt, $64.99

LEG WEAR: UO Opaque Tights in Teal, $12.00

SHOES: Bakers Nora Pump in Black Suede, $49.99 (sale)

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Total Cost of this Outfit: $243.98

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How to Save on This Look:

• An easy cash-save is to complete this look with your own pair of black shoes. A black flat, oxford shoe or pump are all acceptable. *I'd stray from a boot for this look, as the teal tights are a feature.

• While I think the black top shown here is unique and lovely, it could be swapped for a femme black jersey top like this one from H&M, $17.95 -- key factor to keep in mind is a neckline that's going to showcase the stone necklace.

By opting for shoes from your own closet and a less expensive top, you can cut the total cost of this outfit in half and still accomplish a totally fab look :)

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REVIEW: EOS (Evolution of Smooth) Smooth Sphere in Sweet Mint

So, I got my EOS Smooth Sphere in the mail yesterday and after roughly 24-hours of use I figured I'd share my thoughts:

I will admit, I was not crazy about it at first swipe. It reminded me too much of Burt's Bees beeswax lip balm, of which i don't prefer; It's too tacky for my liking. But, as I've continued to swipe the consistency seems to be more smooth– like Soft Lips. And the more I wear it, the more I obsess over the cooling sensation of the mint. It reminds me of this mint lip balm I used to have as a teenager by a company that no longer exists, called Back to Basics. I remember loving that lip tin!! It's always nice when products take ya back :) Haha! 

All in all, it's a product that I see myself using over and over. It's travel/purse-friendly, ergonomic, adorable and best of all paraben free!! Nice work EOS!

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Magenta Tuesday

Today's look is inspired by today's weather in Chicago – a high of 70º!! In late-October, that's almost unheard of in the Midwest. So, I figure why not celebrate with a lively color like this rich magenta by giving it an Autumn twist and pairing it with a flirty curly side pony (inspired by Keri Russell). I love this look because when I look at it, I can't help but smile... and I think that's a lovely outward affect to present. Without further adieu...

The Breakdown:

TOP: Anthropologie Dotty Tie Blouse in Dark Grey, $88.00

EARRINGS: Francesca's Collections Brilliant Beads Hoops, $16.00

BELT: BDG Skinny Braided Leather Belt in Gold, $20.00

SKIRT: JCrew City Mini in Bright Dahlia, $85.00 

LEG WEAR: UO Scale Tight in Khaki, $14.00

SHOES: Nine West Glowing pump in Purple Suede, $89.00

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Total Cost of this Outfit: $312.00

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How to Save on this Look:

• Swap the gold belt out for a cognac-brown belt in a similar style.

• Swap out the colorful beaded earrings for a gold pair of your own. I suggest something bigger/longer– either a hoop or dangler.

• Swap the fuchsia pump out for cognac-brown leather pump. (*brown pump with brown belt.)

• If opting for a no-tights look, go bare with a nude patent pump.

By taking advantage of the accessories you already own, you can save up to $140 off this look– reducing your spending to $175 for two pieces that will surely be in your wardrobe for years to come. Or, you could also go the route of the complete opposite of what I've just said and cash-in on the accessories to pair with neutral items you may already own. Nothing updates your closet like fresh accessories, and in-truth it's just as cost-effective. In either scenario, you're sure to be fabulous :)

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MONDAY ON MARS!

*Warning!: This outfit is a.) not for the meek, and b.) definitely a splurge.  Now, I know– red pants aren't for everyone. Understandable. They most definitely make a statement! If they're not really your thing, keep reading– I have a couple of solutions for you. Moving on from the pant: I'm obsessed with the sequin top paired with a denim looking button-up look!! It's fun, and it's a cool updated twist on a classic. Sparkle and flame need a cool down, so pair with a nude shoe and an easy going loose curl (pictured: Olivia Palermo) and a nude/pink lip. (*My fav lip product: MAC Lipglass in Underage, $14.50). Overall this ensamble commands attention and I would highly reco for any fashion fearless lady :)

The Breakdown:

EARRINGS: H&M 9-Pack Earrings, $5.95 (*bronze-ish pair shown)

TOP: TopShop Sequin Tee in Bronze, $90.00

TOP: JCrew Selvedge Chambray Popover in Dark Blue Wash, $98.00

PANTS: Express Ultimate Double Weave Columnist Pant in Mars Red, $79.90

SHOES: (Bakers) Chinese Laundry Hotness Pump in Light Tan, $49.99

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Total Cost of this Outfit: $323.84 (*Not including cost of lip product).

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Kinda steep, but!– I did warn you... Still, How To Save On This Outfit: 

As promised, a few solutions for the anti-red personality: This look could easily be chic and flirty with a khaki trouser or dark skinny denim.

If opting for the denim route, cuff the bottoms 2-3" to expose the lighter blue, it adds dimension. Also go for a flat or pump that exhibits a pop of color– maybe bring back the red on your feet! 

As for the khaki option, hint: the columnist pant also comes in khaki, but surely swap-in your own khaki pant if you own them already. As for a shoe to pair with khaki, I like this flat: Bakers Glitz Flat in Bronze, $29.99. Otherwise a pop of color in footwear would be appropriate here too.

By using pants and shoes from your own closet, you're able to save $129.89– thus chopping down the total cost of this outfit to $193.95! No, still not inexpensive but again, I warned you this was a splurge statement ensamble.

I say go for it! Be fearless.. and fab ;)

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Work & A Happy Hour Date

To me, nothing epitomizes date night more than a nice dress... But what about the 9-to-5 prior to what is sure to be the best part of your Friday? This outfit is both work appropriate, and paint-the-town-red approved! I often find that if my ensamble is the attention-getter, my hair should be up and away from my face. I like the Adele-inspired messy updo paired with a simple red lip, and maybe a nude eye with just some winged liner (no too intense). This outfit is definitely flirty in it's palette of pattern and textures, and welcomes the brisk turn of the season with a smile :)

The Breakdown: 

DRESS: Fossil Madeline Dress in Blue, $78

JACKET: JCrew Schoolboy Blazer (Velvet) in Black, $168

LEGWEAR: UO Pointelle Lightweight Sweater Tights in Black, $14

SHOES: Bakers Alecia Dress Pumps in Red, $79.99

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Total Cost of this Outfit: $339.99

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Climbin' up there in the $400's region... Yikes! How to Save on this Look:

In my opinion, the heavy-hitters to the wallet in this scenario are the velvet blazer and the red suede pump. However, they also happen to be what makes this look work for me... So, here are some less-pricey options for a blazer and shoe:

• LOFT Pima Cotton 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan in Black, $34.99 (sale) –– A simple black cardigan that's more cropped and less tunic in length would pair well with the empire waist of the dress. Downside?– it's not as warm as a blazer, so you'd have to bring a jacket.

• UO Sparkle & Fade Cropped Ruched Sleeve Blazer in Black, $79 –– To appeal to those who would prefer a blazer over a cardigan, chew on this: No, it's not velvet but it is cropped and it does button at the waist creating the same femme lines as the JCrew blazer, for far less I might add! (Almost $90 savings!)

• UO Kimchi Blue Suede Pointy Kitten Heel in Red, $49 -- A little less aggressive than a pump, but equally as cute. This shoe definitely brings out the vintage-inspired quality of the dress more to the forefront. (Not to mention they're $30 less expensive!)

By going the route of the UO blazer and red heel, you're bringing the cost down to $220! I like saving $120 too ;) How fab!

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So, I don't talk a ton about makeup on here because quite frankly (confession:) I'm 25 and am just learning the proper ways to use it. That's not to say I've been terrible with makeup since my teens or anything like that, it's just I'm learning more about quality products and application best practices now... which is kinda cool... better now than never I guess!

Anyway, per my last post re: Sephora's Friends & Family Sale–– I decided to buy myself something that I otherwise wouldn't if it weren't for a coupon code. I've always thought it was a silly expenditure of $20+, and my Sephora is a pain in the ass to get to (as most things are in Chicago if the L doesn't run where you wanna go). But, I caved and got a Beauty Blender sponge.

For those who are like 100% lost as to why I would buy a sponge–– it's for a more even/flawless foundation application. I was inspired to try it out via a video by one of my more favorite YouTube Beauty Guru's– Tiffany D –– You can check out her video HERE, if you're interested in seeing this thing in use.

I'm pretty excited to try it out and have high hopes of liking it, to be honest! Fingers crossed! (*Review to come.)

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ATTN: Guru's and beauty aficionado's alike!!––

Hypothetical question: You get 20% off ONE item a Sephora's F&F Sale, What do you snatch up? Something you religiously use? Something that looks fun and out of the ordinary that wouldn't other wise get? I'm curious!!

Interested? Enter your email to get a coupon-code for the: Sephora Friends & Family 20% Off Sale!

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A Punch of Gold

As the leaves have all pretty much turned their colors & fallen to the ground, they're the final punches of color this area will see for quite a while. So, in leu of celebrating the Autumn hues we all know and love– I present this transitional, flirty, punch of gold look.

The Breakdown:

TOP: (Ann Taylor) LOFT Button Cuff 3/4 Sleeve Sweater in Oatmeal, $39.99

JACKET: Top Shop Mustard Daisy Print Pyjama Style Jacket, $110.00

NECKLACE: Anthropologie Citrus Twist Necklace in Assorted, $38

PANTS: Zara Trousers w/ Piping on Pocket in Black, $49.90

SHOES: Francesa's Collections Dancing on Air Flat in Black, $28 

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Total Cost of this Outfit: $265.89

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$250+... Eeeeh that's gettin' up there–– How You Can Save on this Look:

• Omit the $30 black flats and swap-in your own similar shoe or low-profile black heel

• Omit the $50 trousers and swap-in your own black cigarette pant, or leggings. I do recommend that ladies have a nice black pant in their closet as it's just one of those items that's great to have for any occasion. 

*And what I mean by leggings (^) are not cotton semi-see-through spandex yoga pants or opaque tights!! I mean the leggings that actually have a zip and button but contain spandex. I've often talked about the Zara Ponte Di Roma Trousers in Black as my 'go-to' legging of choice. THAT is the type of legging I am speaking on here.

By swapping-in items you may already own, you can accomplish this look for $187.99. No, still not 'cheap', but guess what none of the pieces shown here are cheap– and by cheap I mean cheaply made. They're quality and they're going to stick around in your closet for a long time. Solids and statement pieces really stretch your dollar in the longrun. How fab!

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A Twist on Layering!

Three considerations make the recipe for this buttoned-up boho look, each layer entirely dependent on the another(s). By selecting a minimal yet powerful pop of color (in this case, orange) and building it in two ways: one that compliments and one that contrasts, are steps 1 and 2. By layering in orange's complimentary color (blue) in the necklace and denim you achieve contrast. By providing a neutral base for the colors via the button-up and shoes you produce a compliment. And the final 'ingredient', shape and texture: by mixing smooth with detailed and curves with strait lines you create a balanced, not too tailored and not too carefree ensamble.

The breakdown:

TOP: JCrew Stretch Perfect Shirt in Smoky Graphite, $29.99 *Sale

NECKLACE: Francesca's Collections Falling For You necklace in Orange, $24

DENIM: Levis Flap Pocket Flare Jeans in Creased Pure Rigid, $45 *Sale

BELT: H&M belt in Orange, $5.95

SHOES: (Target) Xhilaration Sandi Canvas Boat Shoes in Taupe, $19.99

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Total Cost of This Outfit: $124.93

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($125 ain't bad for a head-to-toe outfit, but here's..)  How You Can Save on This Look:

• Omit the $45 jeans and swap-in your own denim. *Wide-leg makes this look in my opinion, however.

• Omit the $20 faux 'top siders' and swap-in your own low-profile neutral or brown flat

By swapping-in items you may already own, you can accomplish this look for $59.94! That's under $100!! No excuse not to be fun and fab!!

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Breast Cancer Awareness: Parabens talk

So, I figured now that we're midway through October it might be a good time to revisit the topic of parabens in leu of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

I tune-in to many of the youtube makeup/style guru's videos, blogs, websites, etc., and I really enjoy that network of girl-world advice. While I know political or social issue soap-box-ing isn't the route many girls care to direct their channels, I do think it would be nice to see some "girl power"/uniting chatter about breast cancer as it is a disease that claims so many lives.

Fact: 85% of diagnoses have no family history. (breastcancerawareness.com). That means those diagnoses's come from causes related to diet, wellness, lifestyle and environment -aka- things we can control. I'm willing to bet on average most women hold the attitude of, "Wow, what a sad disease... but I'm not convinced it'll happen to me". – realistically. As someone who prefers to take a preventative approach to something as serious as breast cancer, well knowing how deeply it affects lives– I like to focus on the things that are within my power. After all, people always say, "it's the little things".

So, Parabens: they're chemicals found in most cosmetics and skincare products that are injected for a multitude of reasons, but commonly: 1.) to prevent bacteria/microbial growth and 2.) to boost a 'youthful' appearance– usually by acting as a pluming or lifting agent. While that sounds pretty harmless, parabens (when soaked into the skin) make friends with ostrogen hormones (aka the ones that promote cell growth), and fool the body by mimicing said hormones. As we know, cancer is a cell vs. cell attacking disease, and as you can guess when you build an army of strong faux hormone cells (which hold the capability of multiplying) and they befriend tumor cells... well, that's not a fun time.

Think of how many things per day (or twice a day) you apply to just your face:

cleanser/face wash

toner

moisturizer

foundation primer

concealer, foundation (wet &/or powder)

blush, bronzer

eye shadow, liner, mascara

ETC!!

Point being, roughly 10-12 products are being soaked into your skin just via your every day makeup routine. And if each of those products contain parabens... well, I think that's just scary. I should mention, to avoid parabens altogether in life is virtually impossible. They are in toothpaste, soap, shampoo, makeup, and even in some foods. My goal is mainly to be aware and cut-down whenever possible... and I also think knowledge is power in this instance. If every woman were just conscious of the products they buy, reading the labels on what they're applying to themselves– it's a small step in the right direction.

Parabens listed in on labels in the ingredients section to look out for:

Methylparaben (E218)

Ethylparaben (E214)

Propylparaben (E216)

Butylparaben

I personally think it would be amazing to see Youtube Guru's support on this topic, or if anything to use your video platform for creating awareness to a disease that's a concern (or should be a concern) to each woman.

Love your bewebies ladies!! Take a preventative approach to breast cancer and make small lifestyle changes!!

Web linkage you may be interested in:

Deodorants, Antiperspirants, Parabens & Breast Cancer: a great educational article about parabens in cosmetics

BreastCancerAwareness.com: a pretty excellent FAQ resource

Shine A Light On Breast Cancer: a great BCA campaign by Estee Lauder

KeepABreast.org

Go pink! :)

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Hot-to-Trot Tuesday! Every office runs differently, but as for my office– every Tuesday morning we gather and have a status meeting. On Monday's we're typically quiet and have our noses in our computers dealing with the leftovers of the week prior and sifting through our emails. So, on Monday's I typically don't "dress up" as it's not really the most buttoned-up day of the week for my schedule. On Tuesday's however, I like to bring my A-game.

Pulling inspo from men's suiting with the trousers and heels and sprinkling in feminine touches like a red lip and a light blue shirt with a 40's popover vibe to it, plus little dashes of gold take this look from boyfriendwear to boyfriend chic! (That's of course if your boyfriend is a model in Burberry ads!) ;)

Here's the breakdown:

• TOP: JCrew Puff-cleeve popover in stripe, $20.99* (sale)

• JACKET: Zara Jersey blazer, color- navy, $79.90

• EARRINGS: Target faux citrine studs, $29.99

• WATCH: Fossil flight plated stainless steel watch - gold tone, $135

• PANTS: Zara checked print trousers, $59.90

• SHOES: Aldo Falge lace-up heel in Cognac, $100

• LIP: MAC lipstick in lady bug, $14.50

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Total Outfit Cost: $440.28

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(Eep! $450 is rather steep!) How You Can Save on This Look: 

• Omit the $135 watch and swap-in some gold bangles or gold-toned cuff

• Omit the $30 earrings and swap-in a pearl stud or thin gold hoop

• Omit the $100 heels and swap-in a nude or brown leather pump

• Omit the $15 lipstick and swipe a peachy gloss. *Another way to inject femme w/o the red/orange lip is to opt for a winged eye liner look, or give your cheeks an extra swipe of blush.

By swapping-in items you may already own, you can accomplish this ensamble for $160.80! What's also great about the individual items displayed here is, you can wear them SO many ways with other items from your closet!

Wearability-conscious and fab!

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Nail Polish Re-Do

I couldn't swing the Frankenstein polish any more, SO I opted for a Fall plum route. Here's the polishes (in order):

Revlon Quick Dry Base Coat

Essie in 'Nice Is Nice' (as a lightly applied base to lift the 'Show You Care' to a more recognizable plum vs. black)

Nicole by O.P.I. in 'Show You Care'

Sally Hanson Diamond Strength No Chip Top Coat (07)

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Fall Loves Tag

5 BEAUTY QUESTIONS:

1.) What are your top 5 fall makeup products? ➜ 

My eyes change color when the seasons change colder– fact. In fall I like to up-play the greenish amber brown color they get, so I bust out the Hazel/Jade-toned eye liner or mascara. (*I'm not a fan of green hued shadows on myself, so I just stick with subtle touches.) Love the Stila Smudge Pot in Jade, $20 or the Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Eyeliner in Smog, $18. For mascara I'll put a swipe of Covergirl's Exact Eyelights Mascara in Black Gold, $8.99 over my black mascara.

Another eye product (sorry to be redundant) would be my trusty Urban Decay Naked Palette, $48. For Summer I used a lot of the pinky shades, but moving into Fall I'm using more of the brown/taupe tones– especially nice for building a brown smokey eye. (*Specific shades w/i the palette: Naked, Buck, Smog, Darkhorse, Hustle).

I love the runway look often seen at NY Fashion Week of the bold red lip with minimal other makeup. I recently just purchased the Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain + Balm in Gothic, $9 and love it! It's definitely color-true and doesn't pull pink when you apply it, and the great thing about the stain + balm application is it doesn't smudge and lasts through a meal!!

Women require less make up in Summer because our skin gets a natural sun-kissed appearance, plus we sweat more, swim more and are more active (in general) so it's common to opt for a more carefree routine. But, as we move into fall the routine shifts. Part of my routine now is enhancing my brows. Instead of applying a brow powder, I actually use the 'Buck' shade from my UD Naked palette with a Sigma E65, $9.

Again, moving into cooler weather it's harsh on the skin so I'm sure to moisturize twice daily after cleanser then toner with Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel, $13.50. It keeps the skin fresh, not oily and I honestly cannot rave enough about it.

2.) What is your fav fall hair product? ➜

I definitely blow dry/flat iron/curl my hair more in Fall and that's a whole lotta heat damage! To avoid scorching I spray Kevin Murphy's Damage Manager, $21.50 on my damp hair prior to blowdrying and it keeps my ends ultra healthy! 100% worth the money and honestly one of the best haircare products recommended to me by my stylist.

3.) What is your fav fall nail polish? ➜

I tend to like deep, almost-black shades in the colder months. Sifting through my current polish bag, a few wine-inspired tones are: L'Oreal Paris in Stroke of Midnight (580), $4.99, Nicole by OPI in Show You Care, $4.99, OPI Nail Lacquer in An Affair in Red Square, $7.50 and Milani Nail Lacquer in Garnet Gems (27A), $4.49

4.) What is your fav fall scent? ➜

Because this is a makeup/beauty tag I'm going to assume this isn't asking about candle scents, etc. SO my fav perfume scent that I tend to transition to in the colder months that's a little 'heavier' than something I'd wear for Summer is Black (for women) by Kenneth Cole, $65, described as: "a delicate blend of lush florals, citrus, sandalwood and musk". 

5.) What is your most worn fall clothing item & accessory? ➜

I love leggings with riding boots in Fall and a thicker legging is needed in the windy city of Chicago, so I'm in love with the Zara Ponte Di Roma Trousers in Black, $49.90

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5 GENERAL FALL QUESTIONS:

1.) What is your fall style icon? ➜

Not sure I could name a celeb or somebody off the top of my head whose style I religiously follow, but I have noticed that the Kardashian sisters are exceptionally awesome at layering. I also love Nicole Richie's style... but not specifically and only for Fall, pretty much all the time.

2.) You're going to a corn maze – what do you wear? ➜

Confession: I've never been to a corn maze. Eep!! BUT I did tell Ryan that I'd like to go to one this year, so we'll see. I'd probably wear leggings (like the ones from the fav Fall clothing item question), wellies– in case it's muddy (like these Hunter Originals, $125), a scarf (like this Merona Woven Scarf, $12.99), and a light leather jacket (like this Moto Jacket, $98).

3.) What is your favorite Halloween movie? ➜

"It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!" Duh! :P For an actual 'scary' movie, I actually really liked "House of the Devil"– it had an admirable 70s vibe to it that I found compelling. I also liked "The Last House on the Left". Movies I refuse to watch: Paranormal Activity movies! I saw the first one and legit couldn't sleep for a week! "The Exorcist" I still can't watch without a month's worth of nightmares either. I'm a baby!!

4.) What is your favorite Halloween candy? ➜

Peanut butter taffy, yea the vintage stuff that comes in black and orange wax wrappers -or- NECCO Mary Jane's (same thing).

5.) What are you going to be for Halloween this year? ➜

Holly Golightly, aka Audrey Hepburn's character from Breakfast at Tiffany's

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Case-of-the-Monday's Chic

Again, a simple approach to color-blocking that intertwines classic, casual and whimsy for a polished femme look! I heart this ensamble for a crisp Autumn Monday because it combines a pop of red which says, "I'm totally ready to take on today!", and a tights/flat combo which screams cozy (not frumpy) all the way! A perfect outfit for a day mostly spent in a desk chair.

The breakdown:

TOP: The Gap Knit Turtleneck in True Black, $34.95

NECKLACE: Betsy & Iya Coin Goddess necklace, $89.00 [*I saw this piece in person at a boutique called Monograham, in Delafield, WI and insta-fell in love!! (And regretfully did not purchase!) I definitely encourage you putz around her website/store if possible. Also, you may follow the master-mind (Amy Graham) on Twitter here: @monograham].

...Okay, and one more note about Amy Graham: if you're into paper, letterpress, lovely femme patterns, etc. she's kiiiiinda a big deal in that realm!! Check out her amazeballs operation (and my dream wedding invite look/feel), Smock.

Moving on... 

SKIRT: EmersonMade Red Twill Pockets Skirt, $188.00 [*While I like the more 'poppy/coral' color in the EmersonMade skirt, this one from Urban Outfitters is a solid cost-effective substitute: Piplette by Alice Ritter Alia Full Skirt, $69]

LEGS: (Target) Merona Cable Sweater Tights in Ebony, $12.00

SHOES: (DSW) Rocket Dog Marilyn Fabric Flat in black, $34.95 [*Or, if you feel like adding in that extra element of personality, the same flat in Houndstooth (same price) is tres femme!]

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Total Cost of This Outfit: $358.90 (with the EmersonMade skirt), or $239.90 (with the Urban Outfitters skirt).

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How To Save On This Look:

• Obviously, opt for the lower-in-price skirt.

• Omit the $90 jewelry cost and swap-in your own silver or pewter-toned statement piece. I do recommend a longer length when worn in combination with a turtleneck.

• Omit the cost of the $12 cable sweater tights and swap-in your own solid opaque black tights.

• Omit the cost of $35 solid black flats and swap-in your own solid black shoe, whether it be a flat or a pump. A knee-height black boot isn't my favorite route for this look, as the skirt is longer in length but it wouldn't be dreadful. *Just make sure if you're going the boot route that the shoe isn't too flashy with embellishments like hardware, studs, buckles, etc.

By opting for the less expensive skirt and saving on jewelry, tights and footwear this outfit comes down to: $103.95!! How fab!!

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Walgreens Mini-Haul

PICTURED: Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash: Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub, SinfulColors Professional nail polish in Happy Ending, Revlon Quick Dry Base Coat and Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain + Balm in Gothic.

THOUGHTS:

Face Wash: As I've said, I'm in the market for a new face wash. About a month or so ago I replaced my Clean & Clear cleanser with Olay Regenerist Micro Purifying Foaming Cleanser, as I heard it was a solid drugstore substitute for Clinique (1) Liquid Facial Soap. I gave the Olay wash a solid chance and I just don't feel my skin is getting a deep clean. I typically am happier with a scrub, so I opted for the Pink Grapefruit Scrub which I'm also pumped to try because a.) it's paraben free [*if you have no clue what I'm talking about here, check out my post on my other blog regarding parabens], and b.) it has salicylic acid which (to me) is less harsh than benzoyl peroxide. I'm excited to try it. Review to come.

Nail Polish: Check out my review of these purchases here.

Lip Stain + Balm: I love these sticks normally and own a few of them. I'm loving a red lip right now, but get irritated with the chalkiness that often comes with vibrantly pigmented lipsticks (such as red), so I've opted to try a stain with fingers crossed that the color won't lean too far in the pink direction. *Fingers crossed*. Review to come. I'm hopeful.

(*Bonus: Revlon lip and nail products were by one, get one 1/2 off.)

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REVIEW: New Nail Polish >> SinfulColors Professional nail enamel in Happy Ending, Walgreens $1.99

Before I kickoff: WARNING! The color via the link provided is NOT what the polish looks like in person. I'd say 'Happy Ending' is actually closer to the 'HD Nails' swatch online.

So anyway, Ryan and I swung by Walgreens for a couple of items this afternoon and of course I skimmed the makeup isles. Right up front/featured was an array of Halloween products from nail polish to makeup to fake lashes. I spotted a bright kelly green polish and I was sucked in. In the basket it went, well knowing I might not love it as I typically stick to either Essie or Sally Hanson Complete Salon Manicure polishes– which are notoriously more pigmented and long-wearing.

Since being home, I decided to test this new green polish out. (*Sidenote: I also purchased Revlon's Quick Dry Base Coat as a BoGo deal. As far as I can tell thus far, that product is nice.) Anyway, honest review of the SinfulColors polish: I don't love it. The consistency very much reminds me of the Sally Hanson Hard as Nails XTreme Wear nail color polishes– rather thin and not a ton of pigmentation. This 'Happy Ending' definitely needed two coats. As you can see via the pics attached here, the green turned out to have more of a yellow hue vs. a blue hue, which contrasts to what the product looks like in the bottle.

HOWEVER, I will say (if the polish ends up wearing well in long-lasting terms) I'd use it again with a light base coat of Sally Hanson Hard as Nails XTreme Wear in Marine Scene and then apply the 'Happy Ending' on top as coat #2 to pull the color in a more kelly green direction (vs. a bride of frankenstein green). Annoying that the polish needs to be manipulated like that to be color-true, but whatever.

All in all, I give this polish a 3 out of 5.

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Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Pop Whole Foods, $1.99/ea.

Seriously delicious pre-dinner dessert :) I love Sunday's!!