Recent Beauty Product Finds: Hits and Misses

I make no bones about my love for makeup, skincare and hair products. I could never, ever work at a place like Sephora or Ulta because I'd probably end up spending my entire paycheck within the store. Although I'm pretty brand loyal on a few staples, (cough, cough...my Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation), I never shy away from trying something new. The way I see it, life is entirely too short to stick to clear nail polish and beige lip gloss.

Now. My experience with these could be completely different than yours, so don't let me deter you from buying (or liking) whatever your heart desires.

For what it's worth -- and I realize it's not worth much -- here are a few of the things I've tried this month and my honest thoughts.

The product: Redken Pillow Proof Blow Dry Express Primer - I like it!

What it does: This stuff is both a heat protectant and also a blow dry primer. This means that it is supposed to make your hair nice and smooth while also shaving minutes off your drying time.

Thoughts: The first time I used it, I couldn't tell a tremendous difference in the amount of time it took to dry my hair. The second and third times though, I made sure to start with a completely wet head and was super impressed. It cut about ten minutes off my drying time!

The product: Tarte Lights. Camera. Lashes. Mascara // Best in Faux - Not for me.

What it does: A two-step fiberlash mascara, Tarte's formula is supposed to give you the look of fake lashes.

Thoughts: I really liked the initial look that it gave my lashes, but the fibers were constantly falling into my eyes all day. For anyone that wears contact lenses, this is the nail in the coffin for a mascara. I wanted so darn badly to give this one a thumbs up, but I just couldn't. For everyday use, I'll take my Lancome Hypnose Mascara.

The product: Redken Pillow Proof Two Day Extender Dry Shampoo - Not a fan.

What it does: This stuff works as a dry shampoo to buy you a couple extra days between washes.

Thoughts: Really not a fan. Of all the products I tried, this was my least favorite. Maybe (probably) it was just my specific hair texture, but it gave my hair a weird texture and honestly made it feel more dirty. I ended up shampooing it out that night. What I DO like? My Bumble and Bumble Prêt–à–Powder Dry Shampoo/Volumizer. It's light, airy and smells terrific. And, best of all, it actually does make second or third-day-hair feel clean.

The product: Nars Soft Touch Shadow Pencil in Hollywoodland (a pale gold) - Get it today!

What it does: This pencil is actually a stick eyeshadow, but I used it as an eye brightener and fell in love! A little more pricey than what I'd typically spend on shadow, (because I'm cheap...err, frugal), but well worth it.

Thoughts: Do not pass go, do not collect $100...get this little miracle stick now. I applied just a tad right into the inside corner of my eyes and it really did give me a more rested look. I noticed that my eyes looked brighter throughout the day and the formula seemed to be long-lasting.

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So, there you have it. My recent product purchases, both the good and the less than stellar.

I'm curious to know...what was your last beauty product purchase and what did you think? Give your two cents below!

Be a Gem

Jewel tones epitomize fall, don't they? From deep navy to burgundy and emerald, these shades look good on anyone with any skin tone. The best thing about gem-toned hues is that they always add color to your complexion, even if you're as pale as me : )

This navy blue Anytime Wrap Top from Shabby Apple is about the best thing ever. It's non-maternity, but at nearly 35 weeks, the design and cut made it a home-run for my baby-bumpy silhouette. It's a classic piece that's going to be a staple in my fall rotation now and well after Ainsley arrives.

The breakdown:

Felt Floppy Hat in Burgundy
Anytime Wrap Top in Navy Blue c/o Shabby Apple
Tassel necklace via Evereve last year (similar here and here)
Fitight leggings in Dark Green
Boot socks here
Try to Explain Boots in Whiskey c/o Riffraff (sign up for re-stock notify here!)
Prada Saffiano Tote in Caramel (similar bags here and here)

(Sizing reference: I'm 5'4" and wearing a size 4 in the wrap top.)

I like to pair these colors with gold jewelry instead of silver because I feel like it balances out the coolness of the jewel tones. But, it's your world, so go with silver if that's more your thing.

For more outfit inspiration, you can follow Shabby Apple on Instagram (username: shabbyapple). I like to keep up with them for daily outfit ideas, which is great when I'm feeling a little uninspired - easy to do when the weather gets colder!

Until tomorrow, gals--

Younique Mascara: {An Eye-Opening Review}

Recently, my good friend Hannah passed along some 3D Fiber mascara by Younique for me to try out and give her my thoughts. I had purchased some back in January and could never quite master the application technique, (i.e. I looked like a hot mess), which I completely blame on having a newborn and just not having any time to play with the mascara and learn how to apply it. But, I knew if I could figure out how to apply it that I'd love it.

Well, Younique reformulated their now-famous mascara AND I finally took a moment and watched a couple of YouTube tutorials on how to put the stuff on. (I liked this tutorial.)

Let me tell you...amazing results.

I have pretty decent eyelashes on my own, but this stuff gave me major lash volume and length that far surpassed any of the lengthening mascaras I've tried in the past. I did a little comparison down below so that you can see what a difference just one application of the fibers made.

And, because I like to be 100% transparent in my opinions for reviews, I made a comparison chart for ya. I wanted you to see what I thought were the major perks and the tiny drawbacks...as you'll see, the pluses were numerous.

*I did get some oil-based eye make-up remover last night, (brand is Almay, I think), and it took the 3D Fiberlash off in a snap! So really, it's only a little challenging to get off if you use just regular water.

For a very reasonable price and the results it produces, I deem this product Ambition Approved. Get some 3D Fiber Mascara for yourself here from Hannah! You will not regret it, I promise.

Because Baby Girls Need Ruffles

Ruffles. Frills. Lace. Poofy things. Twirling. Fluffy skirts.

All things synonymous with being Mom to a little girl. And I puffy-pink-heart LOVE every moment of it.

You can probably imagine my excitement when McKinli, awesome entrepreneur and fellow momma who is behind Mommy's Little Sunshine, emailed to see if I'd be interested in sharing her Petti Skirts with the blogging community.

After 1.5 seconds of thinking, I answered with an enthusiastic 'yes'!

And yes, she was well-supervised with that bracelet : )

I had some time over the weekend to dress up Miss Thang and let her be all cute and babyish while I snapped a few pics. Oh. My. The preciousness was too much to handle.

I had been wanting some super girly pics of Caroline for a while, so this Petti Skirt and coordinating head band were the perfect attire for her to wear. I love the beautiful (and perfect for summer) shade of aqua, too!

I love, love, love this store and wanted to share with anyone out there who may have a little girl, niece cousin, etc. These would also make the BEST baby shower gifts!

Check out Mommy's Little Sunshine for your next frilly, girly gift!

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*The skirt and headband in this post was generously gifted by Mommy's Little Sunshine. Opinions are my own.

Whitney English Planner Review

I’m old school. Even though I always put appointments and reminders in both my work Outlook calendar and in my iPhone, I love having a real, paper and ink planner to keep track of life’s details. Recently, my planner expired and, with the bambina on the way, I wanted to upgrade to something a little thicker and more spacious than my Target version.

Enter Whitney English.

My friend Christi bought one a few months ago and I loved the way hers looked. I compared a few different styles and brands, including:

-MyAgenda

-Erin Condren

-Whitney English (obviously)

 All three were really, really similar in size and space for writing, so for me, it came down to aesthetics. I LOVED the clean black and white exterior cover of the Whitney English design. Plus, she had this cool personal brand and goal planning section at the front of hers that really appealed to the PR professional in me. (In case you’re new here, I’m a writer for a public relations firm.) And finally, there was a LOT of space to accommodate my gigantic chicken scratch handwriting.

I’ll be honest, the girly girl in me would have loved the personalized stickers that the E.C. planner offered, but I plan to purchase some cute scrapbooking stickers at Hobby Lobby to utilize for the same purpose for my Whitney English planner.

All said and done, I’m really happy with my choice. Because I like things neat n’ tidy, I made a comparison chart for you:

And there you have it! I bought mine on Etsy, here.

*I was not compensated or given the product to write this review. This is strictly my opinion of a really great planner that I'm pleased I purchased!

The Other Side of Maude

Many of you know Maude Boutique for their amazing selection of on-trend women's clothing, shoes and accessories, BUT did you know that located mere steps away from the racks of dresses, tops and pants is a literal treasure trove of gifty goodies? Well, there is. Meet the other side of Maude.

She's a real beauty, too.

With everything under the blazing Arkansas sun, this gift + home store is the perfect spot to pick-up a unique birthday gift for a friend, special outfit for your little one or eclectic piece for your home. And, most importantly, for a budget-friendly price.

Girls Floral Jumpsuit

Girls One Shoulder Bow Dress

Boys Tuxedo Romper and Girls Floral Romper

The Maude Home + Gifts gammit runs deep; I'm talking greeting cards, one-of-a-kind Ruf Nek collars for fur babies, Tocca fragrances, Voluspa Candles...you get the pretty picture.

Ruf Nek Paracord Dog Collars

The sweet girls at Maude recently gifted sweet Caroline with this PRECIOUS little dress, which I plan to put on her next Easter. I mean, really - have you ever seen anything more perfect for a baby girl? I think not.

They also generously sent some of this amazing new fragrance, which has become my new favorite: Library of Flowers. Have you ever tried it? Because, um, you must. It's clean, crisp and downright perfect for this discerning critic's nose. (Trust me, as a pregnant gal, your sense of smell is in hyperdrive.) I have a feeling one bottle won't last very long!

Check out some of these other gems...gaw, so chic!

What I'm trying to say is, next time you're in Maude, take a few steps back into the gift store. I betcha a Grande Carmel Macchiato with Extra Whip you won't walk away empty-handed.

Mark my words.

Monogram Madness: {feat. Shop Dandy}

I am southern. This comes as no shock to anyone who reads this blog, watches any of my YouTube tutorials or (for the real unfortunate folks) has to hear my southern twang in person.

My southerness also becomes evident by the sheer amount of monogrammed trinkets that I own. I’m talking dishes, sweaters, towels, bottle openers, house slippers, koozies, ink pens…everything but the kitchen sink. (And if that had been an option, I’d have monogrammed that sucker, too.) We southern girls flat-out love a monogram.

So, sue us.

Recently, sweet Danielle of Shop Dandy reached out to me about sending some monogrammed beauties my way to share with y’all on here. To say I was ecstatic when I opened the box is an understatement.

Behold, the most perfect acrylic monogrammed tray I have ever laid eyes on. Oh, and a matching key chain. WITH MY INITIALS.

To me, you could use this tray for just about anything. I’m choosing to display my bracelets and make-up brushes in our master bath, but honestly, it would look adorable anywhere. It makes everything SO much prettier and more organized!

Now this key chain…my word, this key chain. Love it. It makes my big ol’ janky mess of metal far more chic. Imagine that…a wad of keys being chic! If you’re a bride, these would make excellent bridesmaid gifts or gifts for your sorority sisters, (hint hint!)

A few of my other favorite goodies from Shop Dandy, monogrammed and otherwise:

Nautical Tunic - purchase here

Ruffle Top in Teal - buy here

Sailor Dress - get it here

Mint Hope Bracelet - here

Anchor Necklace - and here

Monogram Color Dipped Canvas Tote - here

Monogrammed Mason Jars (Set of 4) - get 'em here

Acrylic Monogram Trink Box - buy it here

Monogrammed Bamboo Pillow - here

Don't forget to follow Shop Dandy on Facebook and Twitter! Danielle is constantly posting new items and fun updates, so don't miss out!