New In Summer Beauty Part 1

 I love Summer beauty. Glossy lip stains, coral cheeks, and bronzed skin...what's not to love? I usually like to tone down my makeup in the warmer months, but I must confess that I've barely worn makeup at all this year so there isn't much to tone down! I still love to keep updated on the latest products, but because my job and lifestyle don't require a very made-up look, wearing a good amount isn't really practical. I'm all about dewy skin and looking fresh now that I'm in my 30's. It's no longer about staying matte - rather it's about looking like I'm glowing. Despite paring down my collection of beauty products this year, I've been on a binge lately! Confused? You shouldn't be. I'm a beauty junkie after all. I'm breaking this up into two parts so I don't bore you ladies to death, but I hope you find this helpful and maybe come away with a new item to add to your wishlist!

Lancome Juicy Shaker

This lip product has caused a lot of confusion. Is it a stain, a gloss, an oil? I think the problem is that the formula is really thin and watery, so the product seems to just melt off after a few minutes of wear. However, I finally read the Lancome website, and the purpose of this is to layer it on top of a liner and lipstick. Seems a bit much to me, but I do like the hint of color it provides and it smells delicious. I've been wearing this a lot on my "no-makeup" days on its own, and then using it for a little hint of shine on top of my matte lipsticks for nights out. I wouldn't say it's very moisturizing, even though you shake the little bottle so the oil mixes with the color. Oils are supposed to be nourishing! This isn't unfortunately what I expected. I'm curious to try the Clarins lip oil, because I've heard that product is much better at keeping your lips from getting dry. Maybe they've perfected it.

Benefit Cheekathon palette

I can't say enough amazing things about this heavenly little bronze and blush palette from Benefit. It really is all you need! As a long-time blush aficionado (aka hoarder), it was difficult for me to finally purge my old withering blush collection and replace them with this all-in-one instead. The colors suit every skin tone and I like to swirl my brush into two or even three of them at once for the perfect shade. It's the best travel companion as well. You get all of the face powders you need in one place.
By the way, this has been my first go at the Hoola bronzer and I can see why it's so popular. I thought it would look muddy on my light skin, but it's actually quite easy to build up and blend in.  

Embryolisse lait-creme concentre

My favorite Hawaiian body lotion

The Hyatt Regency in Waikiki was beautiful, open to the outdoors, friendly customer service, and there was one other plus - It had an Urban Outfitters right next to our hotel room. Dangerous yes, but did I mind? No! In fact, I think I rummaged through every inch and corner of that store before we left. I am not a huge fan of their clothing because it's a bit overpriced for what it is, but I love their beauty section. I found this French face cream and immediately bought it and slapped it on my face. I've never seen this anywhere in the states, but I have read about it on French beauty blogs and I am so happy that Urban carries it! In doing more research, it's even carried in Target! I have yet to find the brand there, but will keep looking. The consistency is light, but also very moisturizing. 

I can't stop at an ABC store in Hawaii without bringing a little piece of it back to California with me. This scent IS Hawaii. The lotion is light, but it's perfect for Summer when my skin isn't quite as dry and I can switch to more light-weight skin products. I couldn't find the link, but I wanted to mention it in case someone else can find it for me!

I hope you all have a happy 4th of July! Our plans include a friend's gender reveal party, the Del Mar Fair, and some beach time. See you ladies next week. 

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Current Beauty Product Stand-Outs

I've collectively done a huge purge of my beauty arsenal over the last few weeks, and in doing so, I've realized there really isn't a single product in my collection now that I don't love. Some are just standing out more than others because they perform exceptionally well. Just like your closet, I feel like any woman should be able to reach into her vanity or shower and feel confident, happy, and most importantly, excited to get ready to look her best each day.

I've had all of these for awhile now, but have been saving them to mention in this post. As usual, if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask in the comments below. I could talk about beauty all day long.

Sara Happ lip gloss in Pink Slip

The Lip Slip (one luxe balm)

There isn't a single negative thing I can say about either of these. I will never buy another lip balm again. I've found the holy grail. Not only does it smell amazing (a cross between floral and sweet), but it also stays put on my lips and moisturizes them all night while I sleep. I got the gloss in hopes it would be similar, and it really is. Moisturizing, smooth, and a sheer wearable pink. Forget wasting your money on other balms. Use them all up and get these instead.

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation

I bought this because the regular HD foundation has been my favorite for two years. I was afraid that once it was discontinued and replaced, maybe this formula would be different. I'm not good with change! I would say that it is different, but ever so slightly. It feels smoother, and possibly a bit thinner in its formulation. The effect is beautiful on camera, just as the original. You end up looking  almost airbrushed. I use a damp sponge to apply it, and I use very little. 

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

I used this eye cream when I first began blogging, but then switched to Origins because it was accessible whereas Kiehl's is not in my area. I don't know how I went without it for so long. It's heaven in the form of a little pot of light green goodness. What else can I say? If you're craving heavy duty moisture underneath your eyes, this is IT. 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow

I've struggled with thin eyebrows for years, and I think I've written about that at length before. All you need to know young ladies: DO NOT OVER TWEEZE. Just don't do it. Go to a professional for your first time, and then just perform simple maintenance from there after. I've used pencil, powders, and gels to fill in sparse areas but nothing has worked quite like this product. I bought it after a Sephora salesgirl cornered me, wanting to mess with my brows. Although I felt accosted at first, I ended up writing her a thank-you note! This product does not budge, is easy to apply with an angled brush, and looks natural. Did I mention it doesn't budge?

Redken Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo

Soap & Glory Flake Away Scrub

The cleansing cream shampoo was a birthday gift from my SIL. She is a hairstylist and always introduces me to new (or new to me at least) hair products. This acts as a clarifying shampoo, so I use it only once per week. It definitely leaves my hair feeling squeaky clean, and I don't feel residue left behind like I do with my regular shampoo. I notice that other products I use to style my hair work more effectively after using this to wash it.

The flake away scrub was purchased on a whim, but I needed a new exfoliator to replace my LUSH ocean salt, since I don't have easy access to that either. Love this stuff! It's not harsh at all, has a soft scent, and leaves my skin feeling extra soft. I use this in the shower or tub about once per week as well. I use it mostly on my legs and arms.


I hope you enjoyed these mini reviews! What are your current stand-out products?

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Glo Minerals: Cheeks, Lips, and Skincare

Glo Minerals sent these products to me for consideration. I am in no way being compensated by the company, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. 

I've been a fan of Glo Minerals since they sent me the products featured in this post. I especially love the Moisture Tint, and wear it almost every day during the work week. I also love it during my trips to the beach for some added sun protection on top of my regular sunscreen. When I was contacted by them again to see if I wanted to test out a few more of their makeup and skincare line, I happily agreed. 

Blush in Bellini (soft rose)

Cream Glaze Crayon in Mimosa (soft peach coral)

Matte Suede Lip Crayon in Sorbet (bright fuchsia)

Cream Glaze Lip Crayon in Bloom (beautiful pink)

I have been wearing the blush in Bellini every single day for three weeks. It gives the prettiest color to my cheeks, and it really lifts the face and provides a healthy glow. It's neutral enough that I can wear it with any eye or lip color. It has a slight subtle sheen, but it's mostly matte once applied.

The lip crayons are exactly what I've been searching for. These are what I wish other brands would be formulated as, but unfortunately are not. I've wasted so much money on waxy pencils that just don't last. These actually stain the lips, so depending on how dramatic I want my lip color to be, I either draw them on for an intense dose of color, or I dab them on using my fingers to diffuse the color so it looks more natural. Either way, if there is one shade I'd recommend, it is Bloom. It's extremely wearable, but still a fun "pop". They also aren't as drying as other jumbo lip crayons I've owned (and consequently thrown away). 

Mimosa, Sorbet, Bloom

I was actually the most thrilled to try two of their skincare products from their Therapeutics line. You ladies know that I'm all about skin, and am a huge believer that it's crucial to take care of it now before it's too late. My skin isn't perfect by any means, but I have noticed a difference since using these two products, especially the serum at night. Even Nate has been using it! 

The pure hydration is a light-weight moisturizer designed for daytime. It feels like a gel, and it sinks right into the skin without any leftover greasy feeling. I may need something heavier once the weather changes, but this is perfect for California's warm climate. 

The renew serum is my absolute favorite now, and I got it just time as another oil I was using was running out. This goes on thick, and it almost has a slight sticky film that you can feel for a couple of minutes after smoothing it on. I like to concentrate on my cheeks and between my eyebrows since I have fine lines forming there. The smell is a bit off putting at first (it kind of smells like a cross between candy and medicine which is odd) but once I got past the initial scent, I actually have grown to like it. I will definitely repurchase after it's gone. It leaves my skin feeling supple and plumped. 

Eyes, cheeks, and lips by Glo Minerals (as seen on my birthday dinner)

Metallic smokey eye kit 

Blush in Bellini 

Lips in the colors Bloom mixed with Sorbet

Get a 15% discount at checkout when you use the promo code BEAUTYGIRL24. Trust me, these products are worth it. I'm eyeing more lip crayons and more skincare products.

Have you heard of or tried anything from this company? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

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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!

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Beauty Chat & Keeping Things Simple

Hitting thirty has been a real eye - opener for me in terms of skincare and how I want to look and feel. If the twenties are about experimentation, then the thirties are for buckling down and getting a little more serious. I find myself craving simplicity. Gina mentions it in this post and I absolutely agree with her. Even if I find the time to take extra steps in my routine, I don't really bother. I'd rather spend those extra minutes playing with my dog or watching the news. Simple is just better, easier. I'm trying to downsize on everything, including my makeup and my wardrobe. I spent most of yesterday trying on clothes, organizing my closet, donating those pieces that just don't fit anymore, and tossing out old makeup. It was hard, because I can feel the weight I've gained over the last year but it also served as a reality check, and was cathartic as well. Small changes can make the biggest impact.


One change is that I no longer crave a matte face. My skin has matured, unfortunately. From oily to dry. I now want a dewy youthful complexion, the one I so desperately tried to hide just a few short years ago. Luckily it's pretty easy to achieve with the products shown below. I first spray fix + on my makeup sponge to get it really damp, then I pat a pump of the foundation over my face and use the dampened sponge to create a nice even glow. Once I apply the rest of my makeup (mainly blush and concealer), I spray the all-nighter for even more moisture. I no longer use a setting powder, unless I go to a special event like the weddings I attended this Spring.

I rarely talk about products I regret buying, but this has to be said. These makeup remover wipes are terrible. I really dislike them. Sorry MAC, love you. Love the scent of them, but these are a big disappointment. I don't know if I just got a bad batch but they are as dry as my skin is lately, and it takes multiple wipes and some work on my part to remove my liner, shadow, and mascara (and I don't exactly pile that on either). I'll stick to my Aveeno wipes. If they are good enough for Jennifer Aniston, they are good enough for me. 

I'm also sticking to wearing clothes that I love, and I'm going to take Gina's lead and not apologize for re-wearing certain items over and over...and over again. My Barcelona camisoles from Express, my Loft jeans, my white Topshop skirt - I want to be comfortable in my own skin, and part of that means wearing things that I love, even if there's nothing remotely new about them. It's easy to get caught up and compare yourself to others, but that doesn't get anyone anywhere. As a reader, I personally enjoy seeing how people re-work their clothes. If you wear something often, that must mean you love it, right? 

One of my favorite looks. A few days ago, I wore it exactly in the same way as I did a couple of years ago. I didn't have Nate take photos though, because I was afraid of repeating and now I realize how silly that is. 

Bottom line: Stick to what works, and most importantly, what you feel good in. Simplicity is key.

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New to me Beauty

We all have beauty products that we buy over and over again. Tried, tested, and true, some things just become staples in our beauty arsenals. They just work! But sometimes, you decide to go outside the norm and see what else is out on the market.

These are mine. I'm still playing around with them so this isn't necessarily a review of each product, just a peek into what I'm using and or doing lately as part of my routine.

Billion Dollar Brows

Quite a name isn't it? I think it's pretty cheesy, but I'm also hoping this nightly brow boost helps because my brows are too thin for my liking and I need help growing them. Listen up you 13- year olds out there...don't over-tweeze! You will regret it when you're older. That's exactly what I did, and I'm still paying the price. I just bought this last week so I'll let you know what comes of it. 

Maybelline Lash Sensational

Stubby lashes have been my foe since I was a teen, and mascara is one of my most beloved products to help me look awake. It's amazing what lashes do for the face! I picked this one up on a whim, and it's well...just okay. The wand is a bit curved to reach into the lashline, but the volume and length isn't very noticeable on me. I'm using it during the week for work, but it's not one I'll repurchase. This is one area where I just need to stick with my tried and true! (Benefit and CoverGirl lashblast).

Philosophy "Falling in Love"  3 in 1

I don't typically treat myself to a fancy shower gel. I love the many options that drugstores carry, and I don't find it necessary to pay for an expensive one. So I don't exactly know what possessed me to order this, aside from the fact that I love the brand but I am so happy I did. The fragrance is soft and very clean. Even Nate likes it, and he's very picky about scents. 

I have some bronzers (such as the one pictured above) that have a sheen or subtle sparkle so instead of using them all over my face, I have been using them as blush. I find that they are too unnatural as all-over face powder, but swept lightly on the cheeks, they provide a gorgeous golden glow. 

Speaking of a glow, I got a facial last week that I absolutely loved. I've only experienced a facial a handful of times in my life, but this one was particularly needed as my skin has been so dry. I had rough patches near my nose and eyes, probably from allergies and constant sweeping away of tears. Have your allergies been bad this season? I was contemplating getting eyelash extensions, but I don't think I can with watery, itchy eyes! Anyway, the facial was the perfect pick-me-up and my skin today is soft, moisturized, and more even. 

This picture from my best friend's birthday was filtered using color, but my skin definitely looks much better than it did a few weeks ago. I think a facial every three months is my new remedy to combat dryness. 

Thank you for reading!

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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 :)

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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! 

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Lip Service

Two beauty posts in one week? Pretty good! I'm on a roll it seems, and my favorite product to blog about is definitely pictured below. When it comes to excess, my handbags, nightstand, and vanity are filled to the brim with lipsticks, stains, balms, and glosses. Once only interested in nudes and baby pinks, these days I'm all about a bright bold lip.

Quick note: The tray is from Target. I actually keep it on a ledge between our kitchen and living room, and I change the decor out depending on my mood or the season. I love trays for displaying my lip treats though, and am thinking of getting another for my vanity. The random crystal button at the bottom? It went in the center of our wedding cake's bow :)

I grouped my new Spring lip colors according to color, and the bottom two are glosses. 

Right now, orange is my shade du jour. Yes it's trendy, all over the runways and magazines. But it's also surprisingly flattering! I never thought I'd be brave enough to pull off such a vibrant color, but I'm telling you that it works! I find that it lifts the complexion and brighten up the entire face. I like to go for more of a true mandarin shade, and avoid anything that's too peach or watered down. The M.A.C. lipstick shown was limited edition, but it's called Fashion Force if you're interested in locating it. However, the orange I highly recommend was actually one I saw on Ella and Carylee. It's the Revlon Lacquer Balm in Tease. Glossy and the perfect shade of orange, it's got just enough red in it to keep it classic, and it's what I've been wearing a lot lately. The Maybelline elixir gloss is in "Mandarin Rapture", and I like to dot just a bit on top of Tease for added shine. 

Of course, you can't think Spring without a bright pop of pink on the lips. My favorites are also by Revlon. The original Balm Stain in "Lovesick" is the best fuchsia ever (last worn here), and "Flirtatious" is equally gorgeous. I like the formula of the lacquer balms better because they offer some shine and they are much more moisturizing. My Chanel glossimer in "Glaze" is the perfect topping to any pink lip. 

I think I've covered all six, but if you have any questions feel free to ask!

What is your favorite lip shade?

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New In Beauty

It's hard to believe that it's been at least a couple of months since I last wrote a beauty post. After all, this is partly a beauty blog! Sorry guys, not sure why there's been a lack of makeup blabbing around here! The start of a season always has me itching to replenish my arsenal with pretty new things, so I promise to fill you in on any new discoveries. And there have been some new discoveries...

We keep it real lotion hearts

My friend Raeleen has been a makeup artist for years. She is the one who did my makeup for my wedding, as well as my gorgeous bridesmaids. She lives and breathes beauty! Well now she has started a new venture, and I couldn't be more thrilled for her as she is extremely talented, kind, and knowledgeable. She started her own Etsy shop called we keep it real, and it's centered around natural, organic beauty products that are not only good for your body, but really lovely to keep in your bathroom or vanity as well.

Raeleen was sweet enough to send over two of her organic lotion hearts for me to try out. It is love, my friends! I have sensitive, dry skin and I've always struggled with peeling, cracking, and itching. Especially my legs! Our desert climate is not conducive to nourished skin, so I'm constantly battling it. Her lotion hearts smell like lavender, and they are packed with essential oils such as coconut and cacao. As soon as I get out of the bath or shower, I place one of the cute little hearts in the palm of my hand and using circular motions, I rub it onto my arms and legs. The feeling is almost like using argan or moroccan oil, but less greasy. The moisture is immediate, and it really lasts throughout the day. I highly recommend them! They would make adorable bridesmaid gifts as well :) Her passion for natural homemade products truly shows in everything she does, so please take a look at her new Etsy.

Rose De Chloe, Chloe

If you love roses, then you need this new fragrance by Chloe. Need. It's like wearing a bouquet, and although that may be too much for some, it's sheer heaven for those of us who obsess over flowers. I do also enjoy the original scent, with all of its elegance and sophistication. It's one of those scents that you can wear happily year-round, whether in the cold or in the sun. And there's something to be said for that, right? 

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Radiant Magenta & Dim Infusion

I must admit, I knew I wanted to try at least one Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush as soon as the hype started. I own the powder version in Dim, and absolutely love the finish it gives to my complexion. These blushes are gorgeous! Buttery, smooth, and blendable, they are also quite pigmented! Much more pigmented than they appear in the pan. My favorite of the two I have is Dim Infusion. It's the prettiest peachy coral that leaves such a glow to the cheeks. It's what I have on in my last few outfit pictures. Radiant Magenta is also very pretty, but I think I need a bit of a tan to pull it off the way I envision it and to really do it justice. It's extremely bright on my pale skin now, but I'm sure come Summer, that one will become my new favorite. All shades are swirled with a corresponding ambient lighting powder, so the effect is very dewy once applied. No glitter or shimmer either, just a soft sheen that's flattering on everyone. 

I'm so happy with all of my new beauty acquisitions, and I even have some more to share in the lip department. That post will have to wait until next week. See? I'm going to be a better beauty blogger again, promise. 

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