Friday, August 17, 2012

Friday Fab Five

Happy Friday Lovelies!

I have a jam packed weekend coming up. Between hitting up the archives and photographing the State House for my graduate dissertation the boyf and I are going to the My Morning Jacket and Band of Horses concert Saturday night and I have a wedding to attend on Sunday. I will need lots and lots of caffeine to get me through this one!

For today's Friday Fab Five I am showcasing my work day morning makeup ritual. I don't have a ton of time on my hands in the morning and prefer a put together yet simple and natural look for day time chic. This routine has held up through the longest and hottest of days...


These five easy steps take about 2 minutes to complete (yes, I have timed it).

What are your makeup "go to's" for the work day?

xxA

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Fall into Fashion

It's mid-August here in Maryland which means it's hot, hazy and humid. I have never been more excited for Fall than I am right at this very moment. Don't get me wrong, I love summer for its sun kissed skin and sundresses paired with Jacks as much as the next gal but this year, I am OVER it!!! There, I said it!

There is just something about the Autumn months that put a little pep in my step. Maybe its the falling leaves, cool days with chilly nights, or the abundance of pumpkin everything. Regardless of why I have such a deep rooted love for the season, the fashion is always a stand out. It's the perfect time to layer and play with colors and textures. Plus you don't have to cover up your fabulous outfit with a coat just yet.

Here are some lovely items that will be making their way into my closet by fall...


Ark & Co
Hi Low Skirt
South Moon Under


Sam Edelman
Alvin Loafer
Piperlime


J Brand
Mid Rise Skinny
Piperlime


BB Dakota
Uri Toggle Cardi
South Moon Under

Blank Denim
Vegan Leather Jacket
Piperlime


Collective Concepts
Color Block Trim Shirt Dress
South Moon Under

Capulet
Long Sleeve Button down
Piperlime

Pim and Larkin Brigid Blazer
Piperlime


Michael Kors
Hamilton Riding Boot
Nordstrom




Whats your favorite season to dress for?

xxA

Monday, August 13, 2012

Pinteresting Inviting Entryway's

Entryways have been on my radar as of late and I find the more eclectic, the better. Adding in different colors, textures and pieces can really make an entryway inviting for others, and a lovely first sight as you walk in the door. I have a small entryway that could use some loving. Here is some style inspiration via Pinterest to create an inviting entryway....


























Whats in your entryway?

xxA

Friday, August 10, 2012

Friday Fab Five

Good Morning Pretties! Here are five fabulous products I am currently loving....

1. Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Lip Stain: I am the kind of gal who, on any given day, has about 10 different lip products on hand. I'm not kidding...you can find glosses, stains and lipsticks in my purse, car, desk, wallet. You name it, theres a pucker product present. So of course, when I heard they were combining all three into one I was psyched! I have tried Cliniques Chubby Stick in the past, meh. Not sure if it was the taste, texture or awful name, but something turned me off. Revlon's version is fantastic. Awesome color pigment, descent taste and it lasts and lasts. I have two: crush (a va va voom red) and cherish (a more subtle pinkish tone). Added bonus: the boyfriend doesn't mind them either ; )



2. Urban Decay Naked Foundation: The search for the perfect foundation continues but I have currently taken a pit stop and am in love with UD's Naked Foundation. Their formula is paraben and fragrance free so its sans breakouts, weightless and leaves a flawless demi-matte finish. The foundation is lightweight and super buildable and blendable so it's perfect for both day and night use. It has anti-wrinkle properties and light diffusers blur those pesky imperfection. Plus, it comes in 18 colors so you are sure to find your perfect match. Did I mention it lasts all day?



3. MAC 187 Duo Fibre Face Brush: Speaking of foundation...I have learned that the product doesn't work unless applied properly, which means a nice brush. I have used everything from flat brushes, to The Blender, to makeup wedges and have never been satisfied. However, now that I have found the 187, I am never looking back. This brush allows for flawless foundation application and allows you to build up the pigment as you go. My makeup never looks cakey or spotty since purchasing the 187. Highly reccomend.



4. Oscar Blandi Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray: Since it's summer and I am of Italian descent, this gal CANNOT go a day without washing my hair or I look like I ran through a vat of oil. Seriously though, my mane is not summer friendly. I easily go from full glorious bouncy hair in the morning to a flat and dull hot mess in the afternoon. I needed to mediate this problem so I scooped up the travel size of this dry shampoo at Ulta. I keep it in my purse to ensure I am sans flat greasy hair throughout the day. So far, I am impressed. When used in moderation on fairly clean hair it works like a charm. I am left with more body and less grease (perfection). However, I wouldn't use it on day 2 or 3 hair, its not THAT awesome.



5. Bare Minerals Mineral Veil: This is a makeup staple! Just a quick sweep over my face before I walk out the door and I have flawless (err, sort of) skin the whole day. What more can I say? Just trust me on this one.



Have a fabulous weekend!

xxA