Sephora Holiday Savings Event 2021

 Sephora's annual holiday savings event begins today for all rouge members, with VIB and insiders shopping the sale next week. The tiers for members are as follows: rouge gets 20% off their entire purchase, VIB's get 15% off, and insiders get 10%. I did a little more damage this year so I'm officially back to VIB status. I look forward to this event every year because it's the perfect time to either stock up on my favorite products or try something new at a discount. The code is YAYHOLIDAY

What I'm Buying:

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Liner in Iconic Nude: I absolutely love Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk lip liner (I wear it every day), but I want to try a more nude shade. It seems just as wearable and a lot of people I know swear by it. 

Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Hair Spray: This is holy grail for me. My hair gets frizzy no matter what time of year it is, and this spray provides incredible shine and smoothness without it being stiff, sticky, or weighing my hair down. Plus it smells so luxurious, and the scent lasts until the next wash! 

Farmacy Honey Harvest Hydration Kit: Farmacy has quickly become my go-to skincare brand. Not only is it clean, but it is also effective. I have the honeymoon glow serum already, in fact, I'm on my third bottle! This set includes that, along with their newest plumping serum and their hydration mask that feels so good to use at night. It warms up as you apply it to the skin and leaves it soft and hydrated. If you haven't tried Farmacy beauty, this is a great way to start. 

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Vanilla Beige: I used Summer Fridays coconut body lotion all Summer long and loved it. I've been curious about their butter lip balm after seeing so many positive reviews of it so I'm giving it a try. Overall I just appreciate the aesthetic of the brand. 

Sephora Collection Ultra Glow Serum: I need a new vitamin C serum but they are all quite expensive. I like the one that Drunk Elephant makes but I just don't feel like spending the money (even with a discount). I'm hoping this serum will be a cheaper alternative! I'll keep you guys posted. 

Other products I would highly recommend are: 

Necessaire Body Lotion: Works like a charm on dry, sensitive skin (and I have problems with eczema)

Sunday Riley Good Genes: I use this on the nights that I don't use the Farmacy Honeymoon glow. Instantly leaves skin looking more plump and bright.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: This is also holy grail. My husband uses it too and often steals it from my nightstand. Best moisturizer I've tried for chapped, cracked lips. 

Charlotte Tilbury ANYTHING. Really though, it's my favorite makeup brand for a reason. Treat yourself!

Will you be shopping the Sephora sale this year? 

Continue the post

Sephora Spring Sale Buys + Blogging Q&A

I got my Sephora Spring sale order last week, and I wanted to quickly share my initial impressions of each product. Honestly, nothing excites me more than a good Sephora haul! All of the products I bought have been making the rounds within the beauty community, and I naturally had to try them for myself.

Ouai Treatment Masque:  I discovered this brand through my FabFitFun Spring box when Ouai's leave-in conditioner was included. I raved about that product so much that I decided to try this deep conditioning treatment masque. I've used it twice so far and am really impressed with how thick, rich, and luxurious it feels in my hair. It has left my ends so soft, and the wonderful scent has lingered in my hair until I washed it again.

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Setting Powder: Not sure if anyone knows this, but I'm a huge Rihanna fan. This is the first product I'm trying from her Fenty Beauty line, and so far I'm completely sold! I got this in the translucent "lavender" shade and it set my makeup beautifully The true test will come once I take photos wearing it, but I have high hopes.

Becca Cosmetics Under Eye Brightening Corrector:  I got this in the light to medium shade. It seems as though every year my under eye area gets darker and darker. I've tried so many different brighteners but this one is thicker. The color is perfect for my skin tone, and it does make me look more awake.

These were added to my order because I had some points to take advantage of. I've been using the Urban Decay All-Nighter spray for years, and I seriously cannot be without it. Since we're going on a road trip next month, I figured a travel size would be ideal to take with me.
The Drunk Elephant C-Tango multivitamin eye cream will also be packed. This is my first time trying a product from the brand, but so far I really love using this eye cream in the morning before applying my under eye concealer and corrector. It lightens up the entire area around my eyes.

I'll touch on these products again once I've really had the chance to use them.

Blogging Q&A

A few weeks ago, My friend Gina over at On The Daily Express tagged me and a few other ladies to answer some questions about blogging. I remember when I first began Beautygirl24, tagging, sharing, and awarding other bloggers within the beauty and fashion community was really popular and I miss that sense of camaraderie. It's been awhile since I've even thought about some of these questions so I hope you enjoy my answers! Please feel free to share your experiences with me as well, even if you don't have a blog but are a blog reader.

1. How did you first get into blogging?
I started my blog around 2009 during my last year in college. I was 24 and completely obsessed with beauty blogs and the YouTube beauty community. I didn't really have any hobbies at the time, and I just wanted to feel involved in something so I signed up with blogger. I had no intentions, no plans. It was pretty haphazard actually. This was long before Instagram, the big social media boom, and monetization platforms. I think RewardStyle was in its infancy. I felt zero pressure to make any money with my blog because it didn't occur to me that I could. Otherwise, I would have taken it more seriously! I was even embarrassed to tell friends and family about it, so I kept it under wraps for years. It was my little secret, my tiny corner of the internet where I could write about the things I loved.


2. What has been the best strategy that has worked well for you to get more blog traffic?
In the beginning, getting traffic to my blog was surprisingly easy! I think because it was such an open, like-minded community, and blogs were incredibly popular. I consumed, I read, I commented on SO many blogs and others did the same. It was fun! People were genuinely interested in building a community together. The tent was huge, and the attitude was "the more, the merrier." There was something very special about it and I'm happy that I began blogging when I did. Now the community feels fractured, and the truth is, a lot of people no longer care about blogs. Everyone wants instant gratification from platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Attention spans are waning. I'll freely admit that my traffic has slowed a ton over the last three years. I'm not consistent enough. If you're really wanting traffic, consistent posting/scheduling is key. I also recommend linking up with other bloggers and being an active participant in the community.


3. How do you motivate yourself to keep your blog going and who is your go-to for fashion inspiration?
I keep blogging because I love writing about style and beauty products, and I need this creative outlet in my life. Blogging the way I have over the years, this feels like a journal and it's fun to keep a record of how I've changed (and haven't changed) over time. It's hard to believe I've been at this for 10 years; sometimes I wonder if my time has passed but I'm not ready to stop. This space keeps me sane, and I love connecting with you. I'll do it until it no longer serves me. That sounds so selfish but it's always been true. That's the beauty of it for me though. I don't have a manager or PR firm backing me, no assistants, and most importantly, no ego. I can only imagine the pressure that full-time bloggers experience. My go-to fashion inspiration still remains the people I see on the street, other bloggers, women I admire whom I want to emulate. Inspiration is everywhere.

4. How would you describe your personal style?
I gravitate towards classic pieces with feminine silhouettes. Because I live in California, I also love casual basics with a bohemian touch. Classic + feminine + bohemian are the words I'd use to describe my aesthetic. Oh, and simplicity is best!


5. What's one thing you wish you understood sooner about blogging?
I'm going to contradict myself here, but I DO wish that I had taken blogging more seriously from the very beginning. I distinctly remember when RewardStyle accepted me into their affiliate program. I was driving to my job one day, in a total hurry, and my account manager at the time called me and wanted to talk. She wanted to help me grow my account, but I sort of blew it all off because Hell, I had just graduated from college with a degree - blogging was just this silly thing I did for fun, it wasn't something I thought to really explore. I missed out on some really interesting opportunities, I turned down collaborations. I regret doing that, not because of the possibility of making more money, but because I missed out on learning and meeting new people. I didn't even try. And now those opportunities are few and far between.

6. Share a favorite blogging memory:
Meeting Gina for the first time at a RewardStyle event! She introduced herself to me and I just immediately connected with her. I'm an introvert with increasingly terrible social anxiety, so her kindness was very much appreciated.

7. Give some unsolicited advice to the blogging community/bloggers in general:
This applies mostly to social media influencers but also bloggers: Please, please, please stop being rude to your followers and readers, quit blocking people and deleting comments. Not everyone is going to kiss your ass on every post, not everyone is going to like every single thing you wear or promote. And that's okay! There can be differences of opinion, there can be healthy conversations. I feel like most influencers just want to be showered with praise, and that leads to inflated egos. Do you want to help others and be involved in a community, or do you just want compliments and clicks from strangers? If this is your job, then do it and do it without constant complaining about engagement and algorithms. I refuse to give anyone my money if they display a sense of entitlement. You aren't saving a life, you're offering a product that I can easily find myself. You don't need to talk down to people either. If you're struggling to turn your brand into a business, keep at it and follow your dreams because I'm rooting for you. I really am. But if it's causing you so much stress that you are losing perspective, then maybe you should look for a job/side job with more stable income.

I could go on but I'll stop. Thank you so much for reading here, today and every day that you come by. I don't thank you enough! I'd love to hear any and all thoughts on blogging, social media, and this community.

Linking up with Rachelle today

Continue the post

Current Favorites

I haven't done a post like this in a few months and since it's one of my favorites to compile, I figured today would be the perfect time. In all honesty, I don't have any outfit photos for the remainder of this week either so...full disclosure guys!

Let's begin with fragrance.

After popping into Anthropologie last week, I finally gave into the hype (and my nose) and purchased the infamous and much beloved "Volcano" candle. One of the greatest pleasures of walking into that store is the way that it smells, and with these candles lit in almost every corner, it's definitely a smart marketing strategy! I lit it as soon as I came home and it's been in our bedroom ever since.

Another raved about fragrance is Bobbi Brown's "Beach". I remember testing it last Summer, and I just couldn't wrap my head around why someone would want to smell like suntan oil mixed with sweat. I must have been in a bad mood that time around, because when I saw it on display at Sephora last week and tried it again, I decided that it really does smell like a day at the beach. I've also decided I need to smell that way at all times now. I didn't want to invest in an entire bottle of it however, so a rollerball will do just fine. Bonus - I can throw it in my bag.

I'll list these products below and simply say that I'm continuing my mostly nude face kick, using subtle products that make me look fresh but aren't fussy to apply. "Slap it on and go" seems to be my motto this Summer. Call it laziness if you will, but I think using proper skincare is key to this. I once was embarrassed to leave the house without a full face, but now that I'm sticking to a nightly routine that cleanses and moisturizers my face, I've seen a vast improvement in overall texture.

Stila Kitten Highlighter (used on cheeks and corners of my eyes)
Bite Beauty fruit gloss in Strawberry (slicked on lips)
M.A.C. pigment in naked (one sweep over my lids)

My highlighter obsession continues with this Jaclyn Hill for Becca Cosmetics in "Pop Champagne". It was the last one left at my Sephora, and I'll admit that always suckers me into buying something. I know I didn't need it (as shown above with the Stila Kitten) but I'm happy I did because I would have regretted passing on it. It's the most gorgeous peach sheen. If you're on the fence, I would go ahead and get it especially if you are in the market for one that really adds warmth to the face. I will say, it's much more shimmery than the Stila though so be aware of that.



I'm also really loving this new necklace as worn in my last post. I plan on wearing it next with black and white tops so that the color of this stone really stands out. The picture doesn't do it justice.

Lastly, I must mention Snapchat. Are you guys doing it? I'm still getting the hang of it, but I think it's slowly replacing my Instagram obsession, if that's even possible. Add me if you care to see my daily life which mostly consists of work, casual outfits, my dog and husband, friends, and other real-life moments that are definitely not blog-worthy.

My username is noelleengel. Leave yours below so I can add you!

Continue the post

Date Night Beauty Prep

In honor of national love day tomorrow, I thought I'd do a beauty post about what I like to do to get ready for a night out with the hubby. This definitely isn't particular to Valentine's day though. I like to treat myself before any of our dates, whether it be grabbing drinks at a bar or just dinner at one of our favorite little spots. Half the fun is getting primped, right? The whole process puts me in a girly mood, especially while listening to music, watching makeup tutorials on YouTube, and drinking a glass of wine. It's the little things guys, the details.

If you're single? Even better! I loved getting ready with my girlfriends before hitting the town. The good ol' days...I miss those. I have two bachelorette parties coming up within the next few months so I can't wait to carry this routine over with the girls.

1) Ro's Argan Body Conditioner - For extra soft, rose scented skin that lingers long after a bath or shower. I'm telling you, if you haven't indulged in Lush products yet, this is the product to try. I can't imagine any woman not loving it (unless you dislike roses).

2) GlamGlow or Freeman's Avocado & Oatmeal Clay Mask - The first is pricey, but it really deep cleans your pores and reveals glowing skin. The second however is a wonderfully inexpensive alternative that I remember using as a teen. I like treating myself to an at-home facial before a special event because not only does it produce great results on the skin, but it also feels nice to go the extra mile and pamper yourself. Put on some relaxing music (for me that means Jack Johnson) and let the world melt away.

3) Light a candle while you're getting ready! We love them around here, even more now with a stinky puppy running around. I gravitate towards so many different brands. I love Voluspa, Bath & Body, or in this case, my new pink peony scent from Target. I've burned it once and it smells like Spring.

4) I love to first apply a moisturizing lip treatment or balm right after I get out of the shower so it can work its magic while I'm doing my hair and makeup. This one by Fresh once again smells like rose. Notice a theme here?

5) I always make sure my nails look freshly polished. I put an extra coat of Seche Vite to ensure they look shiny and don't chip during the night. It's a pet peeve of mine!

The very last thing I do before leaving the house is spraying my favorite fragrance. 

I know, how many times can I stress that I am all about roses?

Chloe's Roses de Chloe perfume

Do you do anything special to prepare for a night out?

Happy Valentine's Day loves! 

Continue the post

November Updates: Beauty & Travel

Just as I begin to go mad, shopping for new additions to my Fall wardrobe each year, I tend to also re-evaluate my beauty collection and the mad dash for new makeup ensues. I have no real excuse for this apparent frenzy, but so it goes like this every October, and especially in November. Are you the same way? I can't be the only crazy!
Anyway, after falling in love with my Dior Addict lipstick in "New Look" last week, I went back for one more that caught my eye. It's called "Diablotine". It's described on Sephora's website as " a sheer muted poppy red" but I think it has more peach undertones then it leads you to believe. It's one of those that you can slap on your lips rather hastily, no mirror required. This is a nice change from the pigmented reds I tend to favor because it's less work to apply.

Dior Addict Lipstick in Diablotine

Here is the first Dior Addict lipstick in New Look for comparison:

It's definitely more of a true red, as opposed to Diablotine.

Both were photographed in my bathroom using natural light, no flash.

Now let's talk about eyebrows, shall we? It's a touchy subject for me, as I have been trying desperately for about three years to correct the damage done to them by myself and others. So a little back history on them: I had very thick, somewhat unruly brows as a kid. In fact, I was often teased because of them. I was so self-conscious, that I couldn't wait to thin them out and that's exactly what I did one night in middle school. I think I was about thirteen. It was a disaster! I tweezed too much, made them completely uneven, and still wasn't satisfied so I started going to random salons to get them waxed and that was an even bigger mistake because they became so thin. I never filled them in either, so they just looked sparse. I finally found someone to trust them to, and she has really done her best to whip them into better shape. I only touch them about three times per year, and am hands off in between. I know they won't ever grow the way I'd like them to, but I can at least get some extra growth. I use Urban Decay's brow box in "Brown Sugar" to lightly fill them in, then use a spoolie to blend in the powder. Have any of you ladies tried latisse? I know it's meant for lash growth, but my esthetician recommended I use on my brows. I've been to afraid to try it, but would love any feedback you may have if you've had experience with it.

Trust me, they aren't anything to brag about, but they've come a long way! I'm too embarrassed to show you any "before" pictures, but here they are now.

Source

I probably won't post again until Monday, which I realize is the norm these days for this blog. My goal is to begin posting three times per week again, but don't hold me to it just yet! Nate and I are heading out on a California road trip of sorts, and we leave tomorrow morning. As I mentioned before, we are heading towards San Francisco but are stopping along the way, with an emphasis on coastal towns. We have both been to S.F. separately, never together, and it has been a long time. We have no plans really. We don't even have a hotel booked for Thursday or Friday night because we are attempting to be spontaneous and adventurous. Ha, even just writing that makes me laugh because he and I can be two of the most Type A and high-strung people I have ever met. Once we do get to San Francisco, we will have a hotel waiting for us, thank goodness. The rest is a mystery. I'm a little nervous, but mostly excited to travel in our car and just fly by the seat of our pants so to speak. Wish me luck! I'll tell you all about it next week :)

Continue the post

Beauty Savers

I've been keeping some beauty products a secret from you guys because I wanted to do a collective post about them. I've recently acquired some wonderful things that have not only enhanced my appearance, but have also saved me some time in my beauty routine.

Urban Decay Naked Basics 2

I wish this had come out years ago, because I'm almost certain it would have prevented me from investing in some so-so eyeshadows and palettes. You ladies know I'm a neutral girl when it comes to playing up my peepers, and these six shades are perfect! Not too warm, not too cool. Neutral is truly the best description, and I recommend it to every skin tone, eye color, and level of experience with makeup. There isn't a single shade, even the darkest brown, that I haven't used. In fact, I have worn it consistently for the past three weeks. I used it for my friend's wedding as well. 

Soap & Glory Hand Food

I don't know why my hands are so awfully dry and cracked, but I know my new puppy has a lot to do with it. I'm constantly cleaning up after her which means washing my hands like a nutcase. As most of you know, I also work with children so there really is no such thing as excessive hand-washing! While out with my best friend last week for dinner, we popped into Sephora and I bought this cream on impulse while in the check-out line. Good call. This lightly scented cream is working wonders on my desert hands. 

First Aid Beauty's Eye Duty Triple Remedy

The three things that this eye treatment promises include brightening, depuffing, and smoothing. It delivers all three. For reference, I'm 30 years old and although I don't have wrinkles or fine lines just yet, my eye area is a bit dark and tired looking most days. I like to put this on over my regular moisturizer in the morning, but underneath my foundation and concealer. The light pink-peach shade is great for brightening, while the metal applicator is cooling and soothing for tired, puffy eyes. 

Aveda Volumizing Tonic

This is my third bottle, if that gives you any idea of how much I love it. My hair is fine, but I have a ton of it. Foaming volumizers weigh it down, but this liquid spray is the solution for that. Sheer, subtle volume that keeps my roots from falling too flat. In conjunction with the Oribe dry texture spray, my hair has been much happier these days (no easy feat). I also find that I can go an extra day without washing my hair, typically on every third day.

And two very recent buys I have yet to play with...

This purchase is solely because of Lorraine's recent YouTube videos where she raves about Marc Jacob's limited edition nail polish, "Midnight in Paris". It's an inky blue, reportedly inspired by the night sky in Paris. Here, the color looks black, but I can assure you there's a distinct blue to it. 

The sheer red lipstick is by Dior, and it's called "New Look". They both looked beautiful on her, and although I don't even slightly resemble Lorraine, I definitely feel that they are wearable for most people. I'll keep you posted :)

Continue the post

Current Beauty Staples & Recent Buys

My beauty routine changes ever so slightly on the weekends, but regardless of what I'm wearing on my lips, cheeks, and eyes, I always gravitate to these key basics seven days a week. These "current" favorites have been my staples for the entirety of Summer, and I don't see them changing anytime soon regardless of Fall being around the corner. These are all tried and true, and I recommend each and every one.

I linked to the products I could find online

    1) M.A.C. Fix + : I dampen my beauty blender sponge with this spray and then use it to blend my foundation into my skin. I find that it creates a seamless, perfectly blended canvas. The fact that it smells divine is an added bonus. I don't set my foundation with it, as I still swear by the Urban Decay All Nighter Spray, but I love Fix + as an all around refresher.

   2) NYX eyeshadow in Champagne (you can find this at Ulta): This beautiful golden brown is what I wear on my lids Monday through Thursday as an all-over color. On the weekends when I have more time to play with other shadows, I still like to layer it on the center of the lids for a pretty yet subtle pop of shine. I just find that it really brings out the golden flecks in my eyes, and the consistency is very creamy. 

  3) M.A.C. Extra Dimension eyeshadow in Sweet Heat: I feel guilty for mentioning this product because it was limited edition but I know they come out with these every few months now in new collections. I actually don't use this on my eyes - I use it as a cheekbone highlight! It's the perfect amount of sheen that makes my skin glow and it helps my face look more tan. It's just a gorgeous highlight and if you ever spot it in a CCO, grab it. 

  4) Urban Decay Brow Box in Brown Sugar: I often used pencils to lightly fill in sparse areas but then my friend told me that powders tend to look a bit more natural. I'm all about natural, so I picked this one up and it's been my go-to ever since. My brows look much more even and fuller than they used to, and while I would love to grow out even more, this powder conceals any bald spots. 

  5) Benefit Eye Bright: I love putting this on my brow bones as a natural highlight, but I also dot some in the inner corners of my eyes to brighten them up and make me look more awake! I have Veronika to thank for her recommendation. It's a great product. 

  6) Origins GinZing: This brightening eye cream (notice a trend) helps to depuff my under eyes and although I still miss my Khiels avocado eye cream, I have really grown to love this. I wear it underneath my concealer and I've noticed a difference in how the concealer applies and the overall look and finish. 

Now here are some recent buys that I have yet to try (I literally just received my NARS order last night). I'll keep you posted on my thoughts, but I can already say that I'm dying to dig in to these gorgeous shadows and liquid illuminator. I hope to wear them for my 30th birthday party and definitely had that event in mind when I bought them. 

Maybelline "The Nudes" shadow palette,  

NARS Dual Intensity Eyeshadow in Dione

NARS BLKR Illuminator

If you have any questions, let me know! 

Continue the post

Mini Reviews {Fashion & Beauty}

With all of the fantastic sales taking place this Holiday season, it's safe to say that I've been doing my fair share of shopping. Temptation is always high around Thanksgiving and Christmas, so while I shop for others, I also sneak in a few treats for myself as well. That's allowed right?!

I have picked up a few things that I just have to share with you! I wanted to review them in case any of you are in need of some last minute gift ideas, or if you've been coveting them for yourself.

Sam Edelman "Felicia" flats

I wear flats every single day to work. I own a few pairs, so I can switch up my look fairly easily without sacrificing style. However, I was in desperate need of flats that were really comfortable, didn't rub my heels, and didn't pinch my toes. These Sam Edelman flats are a dream come true! Hands-down the best fitting and most comfortable I have ever worn. The foot bed is cushioned, and the elastic around the heel does not rub or cause friction. It also does not slide down either, which is something I know a lot of us have experienced with other flats. The toes have plenty of room. I feel like I'm wearing house slippers! They come in leather, but I preferred the wine colored suede because they will pair well with other neutrals. They also come in a multitude of colors, even metallics! I will never spend money on other higher-end flats. These are perfect!

Baublebar Crystal Zodiac Bracelet (Bottom)

Baublebar Mini Pave Links Bracelet (Top, mine is in silver but it comes in gold as well)

I've had quite the affinity for Baublebar since I first spotted their pieces on my favorite bloggers and friends. Honestly, the addiction is a little out of hand these days (I have more jewels on the way!) but I just can't feel guilty about it because the quality is incredible and the price is attainable for someone with such an obsession. I wanted to rave about these bracelets in particular because they are both still available (to my knowledge) on the website and because they are perfect for the holidays or anytime! I've worn both out and have received so many compliments. They look beautiful on their own, but they also layer with other bracelets to create whatever look you are going for. I like to wear mine with my watches for a classic combination. 

Nails Inc. Gel Effect Polish in Kensington High Street and Porchester Square

Always on the quest for nail polish with a great formula, I decided to see what all the fuss was about during the Sephora V.I.B. sale. Good thing I did! These are exactly what I want in a polish - smooth formula that goes on opaque in one coat, and absolutely stunning in two! The gel effect lives up to the name. I have worn both of these shades, and they lasted for a full week with little to no chipping. I see more shades in my future. 

Urban Decay Naked 3

Okay. How hyped up are Urban Decay naked palettes? The hype is always unbelievable, and before I even have a chance to catch a glimpse of one, they are gone! Sold out in a matter of minutes! That always frustrates me, and I spend the next week convincing myself that I don't care, and I don't need another eyeshadow palette filled with neutrals. Wrong. I hate to tell you this, but naked 3 lives up to the hype. I know, I'm sorry I have to be the bearer of bad news. If you can't get ahold of it yet, don't worry. The hype will die down after the holidays and they will become more available. I own a lot of eyeshadows but I really don't have much, if any, of these rosy toned hues in my collection. They are warm, but not overly so. They really are just beautiful.  

Notice these are all positive reviews! I love it when that happens.

♥ Noelle

Continue the post

Sephora VIB Sale & New Beauty

Every year, I look forward to Sephora's friends and family sale. This year however seemed to almost pass me by. In an effort to condense my makeup collection and only buy products I know and love, I actually had no plans on partaking in it. Then I started reading some of my favorite blogs and watching my favorite YouTube girls. Instagram lit up with pretty pictures of what everyone was buying. I caved, and ended up buying just a few things that I either did need or have been curious about.

Necessities: Urban Decay primer potion, Make Up For Ever HD foundation. I stand by the primer potion and have been relying on it for years. It keeps my eyeshadow in place all day long with no creasing. The HD foundation grew on me! I tested it out for my wedding, but wasn't completely sold on it. My makeup artist instead used an airbrush foundation, but I kept testing this one out. I fell in love with the beautiful sheer consistency and dewy formula. I began wearing it to work everyday, and I plan on keeping with it as my routine. If you want a bit more coverage, I still also swear by Mat Velvet +. For reference, I am number 120 in the HD foundation and number 30 in the Mat Velvet +.

Not so necessary but on my wishlist: Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, Nails Inc. Gel Effect Polish in Kensington High Street and Porchester Square. I haven't tried any of these yet, but will report back soon!

I also picked up a couple things from MAC:

After getting my makeup done at the Nordstrom MAC counter (my best friend just got a job there!) I decided to go with their fluidline in Dipdown and brow pencil in Lingering. Both are natural and easy to use.

Lastly, my old trusty Shu eyelash curler has been put to rest. I do miss it though! I bought one from Shiseido, and although it does curl very well, it's really long and my almond shaped eyes aren't used to it. I keep clamping down on my eyelids! I think I just need to get used to it, but I don't think it's meant for small eyes.

Did you get anything from the Sephora sale?

♥ Noelle

Continue the post

Fall Uniform & New Beauty

Wearing: Angle sweater/sweatshirt (similar), Loft jeans, Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC, J Crew pumps (similar)

These pieces are so essential to my Fall wardrobe, so much so that I'm calling it my uniform. There is nothing easier than well-fitting jeans, a pretty sweatshirt, colorful pumps, and a great handbag to get you through almost any occasion. I loved wearing sweatshirts as a kid, but once I graduated college, I vowed to never be seen in one (out in public) again. Or so I thought...now look at me! Of course, the new sweatshirts are much more polished than the old college variety! Expect to see many interpretations of this look throughout the next few months. Are you with me?

On to some new makeup I treated myself to.

Rockateur blush, Eye Bright, sample of The Porefessional

All three products have been on my face for a few days now, and I have NOTHING bad to say about any of them.
~ The blush is a gorgeous shade of rose gold that really lifts my complexion. It's not shimmery, but it does offer a very subtle sheen. I've been on the lookout for a good rose gold that still appears natural, and this one is gorgeous!
~ Eye bright serves its purpose. A swipe along my brow bones and in the inner corners of my eyes and I look rested in 5 seconds flat. That's not easy these days either. I think I purchased it because I've grown tired of wearing eye shadow during the week. I just don't have the desire to do a full face before work, so this is a great way to still get that wide-eyed look in one product.
~ The Porefessional is great. I've managed to stay loyal to my Hourglass primer, but that one is also more expensive. The formula feels very similar, and it also wears the same too. Overall, I would buy a full size.

Have you girls tried any of these? 

♥ Noelle 

Continue the post

Kate Spade & Blogger Essentials

After months of going back and forth on what type of wallet to get, I decided on this little treat in florescent pink. 

I love how small and compact it is. I really don't carry much in my wallet these days, so just a few card slots and a compartment for bills is all I need to stay organized. When I switch in and out of my handbags, I won't have to worry about this taking up too much space or weighing me down. I can now retire my old, ratty wallet that is literally falling apart at the seams!




After shopping on Saturday, I came home and cleaned out my vanity area and bathroom. It got me thinking about products that are crucial for me in regards to blogging. Before using my camera to snap outfit photos, I always make sure to finish my look with these items. They ensure that I at least appear fresh and glowy, even if the rest of me doesn't look so great! I often wonder what other bloggers use before becoming camera - ready. Do they really look like that all the time? Or do they have any special beauty tricks? For me, as long as my skin looks moisturized and my face doesn't resemble an oil slick, I can brave the camera without too much fuss.

While in the shower - Ro's Argan Body Conditioner is what I use to shave my legs, keeping them ultra soft. The rose scent is gorgeous! I could slather myself in this from head to toe. After the body conditioner, I use Ocean Salt to exfoliate my arms, legs, and upper chest area. I swear this makes a difference in photos!

After the shower - Time to apply a second layer of moisture and seal in the Lush products I used while in the shower. Vaseline Spray & Go Moisturizer is great because it's so fast and easy, with no mess or oily residue that could stain your clothes. This is my second bottle, and I plan on buying more once it runs out! Even with dry legs, this spray-on lotion is the key to soft, pretty looking legs. For an extra bit of sheen that photographs like candlelight in pictures, I use Pacifica Coconut Crushed Pearl Body Butter. This has the same effect as a liquid highlighter, so a quick swipe down the center of legs and arms creates a really pretty effect on camera. Plus, it smells like a tropical vacation!

Once I'm all dressed and just about ready to go, I apply my Make Up For Ever HD Powder, followed by a few short bursts of Urban Decay's All Nighter Finishing Spray to ensure I don't look like an oily mess in this hot Summer heat! I think a colorful lipstick brightens up my face, especially in pictures so I usually opt out of anything nude and go for a punchy pink, raspberry, coral, or red.

What do you girls do to prep for an outfit post? Anything special? I usually take pictures on the weekends when I have more time, and when I have a little more freedom with my wardrobe. I find it much easier than rushing home from work during the week, but kudos to those of you fabulous ladies who can do it all!

♥ Noelle

Continue the post

What I've Been Reading {July 2013}

Happy August! I can't believe how fast time flies, my best friend's wedding is in two weeks! I'm really excited about all of the fun events coming up this month, and I hope you all have something special planned too.

I am happy to be back for this month's question (I wasn't able to participate last month). The question comes from Mehreen, and it's one of my favorite topics: What are your top ten favorite lip products?

It's so difficult for a lip product junkie like myself to narrow it down to ten favorites, but this actually forced me to clean out my vanity and it feels great to have more organization. I grouped things by category for you. If you have any questions on specific products, feel free to ask.

Lipsticks

{from left to right}

1. M.A.C. lustre in See Sheer

2. M.A.C. creamsheen in Peach Blossom

3. M.A.C. Lustre in Viva Glam V

4. M.A.C. creamsheen in Shy Girl

5. Revlon Lip Butter in Juicy Papaya

6. YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in #6 

Lipgloss

7. Buxom lip cream in White Russian

8. NYX butter gloss (this shade is in Apple Strudel, but the formula is what tops my list)

9. Revlon colorburst gloss in Pink Ice

 Balms/Conditioners

10. Nivea A Kiss of Milk & Honey. If I could only own one lip balm, this would be it. It really helps dryness.

So tell me, what are your favorite lip products? Do we share a favorite, is there one I have to try?

• Alison*Elle - Alison is obsessed with embellished dresses for summer weddings
• Beautygirl24 - Noelle attended her beautiful bridal shower
• Ella Pretty - Ella's picked up some wardrobe staples and designer dupes
• Lindsay J Everyday - Lindsay can't get enough of these recipes
• Love, Lipstick & Pearls - Kristen shared her Recent Purchases from those late night feedings!
• Schnelle Couture -  Danielle talks about all of her favorite summer beauty products.
• Sequins and Stilettos - Skylette does black and white in a cotton skirt
• The Currently Obsessed - Mehreen is having a blog sale! Tiffany, Michael Kors and Sydney Evans oh my!

Have a great weekend!

♥ Noelle

Continue the post

Daily Vs. Weekend & New Discoveries {Beauty}

Recently, there has been a drastic change between my daily makeup and the products I wear on the weekend. As many of you know, I work with kids that are involved in CPS. I travel to their placements and work with them directly on improving poor behaviors, teaching them coping skills, and helping them cultivate a talent, skill, or hobby in hopes that they may return to some semblance of normalcy. I spend most of the week driving. Dressed up clothes take a backseat, and my makeup is super simple Monday through Friday (unless I go out). I used to try and keep up with the makeup routine I was always comfortable with, but over the past few months, I've realized that less is more for work.

I use the Make Up For Ever HD because I find the formula very thin, almost like a tinted moisturizer. It covers some blotchy spots on my face, but it's very natural. I use MAC prep and prime highlighter under my eyes to brighten them up, some UD liner in Stash (which is an olive) on the lash line, and CG LashBlast mascara. I sweep a nude/peach matte shadow all over the lids and that's all the eye makeup I've been wearing. Some light pink cheeks, Revlon brow fantasy to cover some bare spots throughout my brows, and a dusting of powder and I'm out the door. Throughout the day, I apply a Revlon lip butter in Juicy Papaya or some old fashioned chapstick when my lips need the moisture.



My weekend makeup is definitely more fun! This is when I can play around and let my hair down so to speak. We usually have plans with friends, date nights, or we try to get out of town. We love our weekends!

I like to use my favorite foundation, Mat Velvet +, because it has amazing coverage and staying power. Once I apply it, I know it's there for the long haul. Hourglass primer also ensures a smooth, even coverage. I go to town with shadows (loving my MAC palette), although I keep them neutral because I enjoy playing up my lips with a bright color. I also find that I only reach for my bronzer and cheek highlighter during the weekend, but I'm not sure why. If you have any questions about specific products, please ask :)


Now on to my new "discoveries".

By far the best makeup remover wipes I've ever tried! That's a big statement right? How many times have I raved about Neutrogena, Ponds, etc.? Well I adored those, until I discovered these. Please try them! They are amazing. I love how saturated they are, even the very last sheet. They remove every last stitch of makeup.

I've wanted to try this body conditioner from Lush for quite some time now, but I finally went to the only Lush remotely close to me while I was on vacation last week. Now I've only used this twice, but it's SO GOOD! I used it to shave my legs and they have never felt so soft. I don't think I'll be using this in the shower daily, but definitely on the weekends when I want to feel extra special :) Did I mention it smells of roses? Gorgeous! 

Do you switch up your weekday Vs. weekend routine?

♥ Noelle

Continue the post