Over the last month I've kept track of the beauty/skincare/fashion favorites that I reach for almost on a daily basis. Some oldies but goodies, and some newbies too. I think most of these will carry me through the summer, so definitely try them out if they peak your interest!
Here's the roundup :)
I actually tend to lean more towards tinted moisturizers (my fave) or BB creams in the warmer months, but for those days when I want more coverage (parties, all-day events, church, date night), I opt for this favorite. It's a light weight formula but covers like a dream, and you will be SURE to find your perfect shade - they have tons to choose from! I apply with this favorite brush.
Continuing in the face department, I picked up this palette months ago, but I wanted to really use it before I reviewed it. Verdict = amazing. It's marketed as a contour palette (3 highlighter colors, 3 contour colors), but can be used in so many different ways. I use the top middle shade to set my under-eye concealer and to highlight my nose and forehead. I use the bottom middle shade like a bronzer below my cheekbones, on my temples, and jawline. These shades are completely matte, no shimmer, so they work really well at creating lines, depth, and dimension to the face. I also love them ALL as eye shadows and have been reaching for them almost daily for that as well - they are so creamy and blendable!
If you're new at the contouring idea - this image is a good guide!
Just blend blend blend!
I used to wear this shade years ago, and just recently stumbled upon it again at Sephora, and remembered how much I loved it! It's a beautiful champagne shimmery color with a hint of pink. So buttery and is perfect for a summertime glow. (also great as a cheek highlight!)
bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick - "Be Free"
I know I've mentioned this lipstick before, because I have several colors and I'm in love with this particular lipstick formula. It's so creamy and smooth and lasts a long time. This color is a beautiful nude pink, and I love topping it with this gloss.
Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil - "Dolce Vita"
I recently received this beauty in a birthday kit from Sephora (for spending way too much money there). It came with two different shades of these Nars lip crayons - I gave my mom the red, and I kept this mauvey pink shade. It's a great consistency and so easy for your purse or to have on-the-go. I also will use it as a base to a nude lipstick (like the one above) and I love that combination.
This is a summertime favorite of mine - especially for my toes. My sweet sister-in-law gave me a gift card for a pedicure for my birthday (best present), and I immediately picked this color out. It's the perfect orangey-red color, and I'm in love! Similar to OPI Cajun Shrimp, but without the subtle shimmer.
When my parents vacationed in Paris last fall, I had one item on my wish list for them to pick up for me while they perused the Parisian markets and shops. It wasn't art or a postcard, or even a box of macaroons (I wish).....it was this bottle of liquid gold. Apparently, it will soon be sold in the US, but for now it's just a European luxury, and one of the best face cleansers out there. It's so gentle, mild, but effective in removing every ounce of makeup or grime. It's a no rinse formula, and leaves my skin feeling so hydrated and cleansed. In LOVE. Thanks Mom and Dad! ;)
I've used a lot of cotton pads for toners, moisturizers, and cleansers in the past, but these take the cake for sure. And they might be the cheapest I've found! I get them in my local grocery, but it looks like Walgreens sell them as well. I almost bit the bullet and bought these (has anyone tried them?), but then I remembered that they were cotton pads, and I didn't want to fork out $10 for them. So I got these, and they are the softest, most luxurious feeling cotton pads ever. I don't think I'll ever use another one again!
Oh maternity swimsuits. The only thing worse than trying on normal swimsuits, is trying on maternity swimsuits. And I have tried on a LOT, because I knew this summer we would have a few beach trips, and lots of pool days on the agenda. I saw this one online, and thought it was so cute, but had to try it on in the store before purchasing, because you just really never know with swimsuits. This is the most flattering and forgiving one-piece I've found ((however, I don't look nearly as cute as the model does) , and I love that the tie around the neck is adjustable, and can give those ladies a much needed lift. Highly recommend!
This is my second summer with these babies, and I couldn't wait to bring them back out as soon as the snow thawed! They are my favorite flip flops, so comfortable, durable, and somehow make your feet look oh-so-pretty. They are basic and simple, but great quality, and I love the nude color. Go get your some of these!
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And last but not least, I have to share my favorite snack/meal lately! I have been really craving chicken salad, and I just couldn't find a recipe that I loved, so I made up my own. And I love it! I usually just pair it with these Ritz Chips, or regular Saltine crackers. Here's the recipe:
1 Rotisserie chicken shredded up
2 celery stalks chopped
5 green onions chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese
1/2 green apple chopped
1/4 cup sliced almonds
mayo to taste - I don't like a ton
salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder to taste
Combine and enjoy!
Do you have any products or favorite items of the month?
