Confessions

I have a major sweet tooth. This is a horrible time of year for me. The temptation of halloween candy is everywhere. I'm all consuming when it come to candy, but Reese's, Tootsie Rolls, and Swedish Fish are on another level. A few years ago I gave up candy for Lent and I have no idea how I managed to muster that self-control. 

Notice that the Reese's are gone? Oops

I'm a bit OCD in terms of cleanliness. I keep my spaces very neat and tidy. Poor Brady has really had to step up his game for household chores. This extends to others sectors my life as well. I can't stand chipped nails. Hence, the continuous painting. I'm also really anal about layout/spacing in word documents & power point presentations. 

OPI Bubble Bath this time

I suffer from epistaxis (nose bleeds). This is the bane of my existence. It always happens at the most inopportune moments- running, taking a test, work, etc. I always carry tissues with me, but when the weather turns colder I start using Aquaphor prophylactically.  

An absolute necessity in my handbag

Brady is the only boyfriend I ever had. We started dating when I was 15-years-old. I don't consider us high school sweethearts because it was a pretty rocky relationship throughout those four years. We finally got it together in college and we've been inseparable ever since...

My high school graduation (Brady is one year older)

Comfy Things

A few of my most comfortable items...

1 | Love Stitch Wide Solid Scarf

Just found this scarf last week at Evereve. This is the mother of all scarves. It's long and wide- great as a shawl, folded as a square scarf, or just to let hang over your shoulders. 

2 | The Body Shop Glazed Apple Body Butter

The second I walked into the The Body Shop I commented on the heavenly smell. A women pointed me towards this new scent. It's amazing! Perfect for the holidays! Brie and I each bought two body butters in this scent.

3 | Nivea A Kiss of Berry Swirl Vitamin Enriched Lip Care

Nivea just gets their lip products right every time. This doubles as a balm and gloss. It's very hydrating and comfortable on the lips, but provides a nice sheen. Lots of great colors available, although this one is neutral. 

4 | Tieks (Matte Black)

If Oprah likes it, you know it's good. I mentioned these in a post last week and immediately had to place an order. They get amazing reviews and now I know why. I really like the matte black with the turquoise soles. 

5 | Lululemon Cropped Pants (Similar)

I got these pants in Seattle a few weeks ago and it seems like they're always in the wash. The second I pull them out of the dryer I put them back on. The extra wide waist band is so nice to lounge in!

6 | Allison Joy Hooded Long-Sleeve Tee (Similar)

Also picked up this top at Evereve. It's the softest tee I own! I'll be traveling this weekend and this will definitely be apart of my plane outfit. Also, great for working out and lounging.

7 | Bose QuietComfort 20i Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones

These headphones were a Christmas gift from my in-laws last year and they definitely win "most used" gift. They are fantastic and have been in my ears nonstop (listening to 1989) this past week. 

This post makes me realize just how color-limited my wardrobed is.

Luxe List

I'm still coveting nearly everything from my previous beauty luxe list... I've only added the Dior Addict Lip Glow to my little collection, but I'm thrilled with it! I'm back with a few other items I've been drooling over. 

Here are a few things that will be making an appearance on my Christmas list :)

1 | Lancome Grandiose Mascara

Check out that wand. I'm intrigued by the shape alone, but I've also heard amazing things about this mascara (and Lancome mascaras, in general).

2 | NARS Audacious Lipstick (Charlotte)

This new range of lipstick from NARS is creating lots of buzz. The packaging is so sleek, but more importantly the colors are incredible!

3 | Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush Palette

This palette has the most beautiful blush shades. I swatches each one on my hand while in Sephora and really loved the luminous flush (on the left).

4 | Tom Ford Eye Defining Liquid Liner Pen

I don't frequently use liquid liner (I need more practice), but I've heard this pen makes it quite simple. The two sides would definitely help create a more precise line.

5 | Marc Jacobs Lolita Palette

This palette was all the rage in the summer, but it's shades definitely wear year-round. A good mix of matte and shimmer. Plus, very compact and great for travel.

6 | Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick (Sandstone)

This is a limited edition shimmer brick so I need to act quickly. A great finishing touch for a warm, glowing makeup look. Also doubles as eye shadow! 

7 | NARS Yachiyo Brush #27

I've wanted this brush for over a year! I think it's time. It's such a multifunctional size and shape. I would use it for bronzer, blush, and highlighter. 

8 | Dior Star Fluid Foundation

Another product getting rave reviews. Lots of comments on it being buildable and long-wearing. I want to try a sample and see how it lasts on my oily skin. 

Fragrance Faves {For Autumn}

I'm switching up my scent for autumn (click here for my summer favorites). I don't know why fragrance makes me so happy, but it's turning into a problem. I have to show maximum restraint whilst shopping in any beauty store/department. It's not quite as bad as my nail polish addiction, but it's getting a bit out of hand.

I've compiled a list featuring a few of my favorites and also two new ones that I need in my life...

1 | Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb

Notes: Sambac Jasmine, Centifolia Rose, Cattleya Orchid, Ballerina Freesia, Patchouli

I fell in love with this scent last year. It's so different from anything else I own and now I recognize wherever I go.

2 | Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede

Notes: Peonies, Red Apple, Jasmine, Rose, Gillyflower

I've been wearing this perfume for months and I can't get enough. It's good for every occasion.

3 | Stella Stella McCartney

Notes: Rose, Peony Flower, Mandarin, Rose Absolute, Amber

Another one that I've been wearing throughout summer and fall. However, it doesn't last as long as the Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede.

4 | Burberry Brit Eau de Toilette

Notes: Italian Lime, Icy Pear, Green Almond, White Peony, Sugared Almonds, Amber, Mahogany, Vanilla, Tonka Bean

This is my cold weather scent. It's so warm and musky. It screams holidays to me.  

5 | Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt

Notes: Sage, Sea Salt, Ambrette Seeds

I was searching for this scent in Seattle. It was sold out in three different Nordstrom stores. I'm on a mission.

6 | Jo Malone Dark Amber & Ginger Lily

Notes: Black Cardamom, Black Orchid, Kyrara Incense

While I was at the Jo Malone counter searching for Wood Sage & Sea Salt I stumbled across this one. It's captivating. I could not stop smelling my wrist throughout dinner. 

Weekend Update

I'm sorry, but I completely failed with taking photos this weekend.

I basically spent Thursday shopping with my mother-in-law. I got my hair colored and went shopping on Friday. On Saturday, Brie and I went shopping.

Not exaggerating 

My family had a little going away dinner for Brady and I on Saturday night. Then we went out for drinks and met up with Brady's family. 

Making a Seattle wish

I'm going to miss this babe

Ending the night right at Boone Valley Brewery

I stayed up until 2am listening to 1989... my favorite so far is Style

Workable Flats

I start my new job in one week!

I've begun building my work wardrobe and I'm struggling to find cute flats that are comfortable enough to stand in all day. I've always suffered through my days in Tory Burch Reva flats and J.Crew loafers. However, I would like to find a few comfortable pairs to ease the pain throughout the week.

I basically just searched "comfortable flats" and here's what I've found...

French Sole PassportR

Clarks Valley Lounge

Tieks

Cole Haan Air Monica

Any recommendations?

Autumn Skincare

I've switched up my skincare routine for autumn (click here for my summer skincare routine). I finally discovered some products that really work for my (oily) skin, most of which are from The Body Shop. My face has been happy, hydrated, and matte with this little update.

AM products:

Clarisonic Mia 2 is back in my life. After breaking two of them I figured it just wasn't meant to be. However, it was still under warranty and easy to replace. Now I've fallen back in love and can't imagine my skin without it. 

Elizabeth Arden 2-in-1 Cleanser works great with my Clarisonic. It's a cleanser and toner which is great to have one less step in the process. Plus, it smells amazing- very minty and refreshing.

The Body Shop Nutriganics Drops of Youth is still in my routine. I'm nearly done with my second bottle and will be sure to replace it. It's lightweight, hydrating, and seriously makes my skin so much smoother. 

The Body Shop Seaweed Mattifying Day Cream is the holy grail of moisturizers for oily skin. I'm a total believer in this seaweed range- matte to the max. I also like that it is packaged in a pot that way you get every last bit out.

PM products:

Yes to Cucumbers Facial Towelettes are a skincare staple. I use them at night, but also randomly throughout the day and while traveling. An absolute must-have!

Clinique Rinse-Off Eye Makeup Solvent is put to good use when I wear heavy eye makeup. I soak two cotton balls and hold them on my eyes for 10 seconds then just wipe away all the shadow/liner/mascara.

The Body Shop Seaweed Ionic Clay Mask is purifying and detoxifying. It leaves my skin so smooth and never tight or itchy. I only use it once-a-week and it's quick drying so it only needs 5-10 minutes on the skin. 

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Anti-Wrinkle Serum has worked wonders these past 4 months. While it does have a potent (alcohol) scent, it quickly absorbs and fades away. 

Tea Tree Oil works wonders on blemishes. I previously used benzoyl peroxide, but this is so much better. I also use it prophylactically on my chin, where I tend to have the most breakouts. 

Nivea Lip Butter is still my go-to lip balm. It's so thick and hydrating. There is a lot of product in this little pot- I've been using it for over a year and I'm not even half done. 

2014 Favorite Fall Purchases {So Far}

1 | J.Crew Merino Wool Asymmetrical Zip Sweater (Bittersweet Chocolate)

I've been wearing this sweater nonstop since I got it a few weeks ago. The material is thick, durable and doesn't pill. I think it runs a bit small- I sized up to a large.

2 | Steve Madden Knit Solid Beanie Hat (Black)

The perfect lightweight beanie that is great for fall. It's easy to throw on and doesn't give you hat-hair. I have really cold-sensitive ears so keeping a hat/headband nearby is essential.

3 | Bobbi Brown Alexis Eyeglasses (Camel Tortoise)

I just got these last week, but they're definitely a favorite already. They're so cute, but more importantly they can be worn all day without hurting my ears or nose.

4 | J.Crew Funnel Sweatshirt (Grey)

I also got this last week, but I've already worn it twice. It's so soft! It's prefect for layering with a tee and vest. It does run large- I sized down to a small.

5 | Gap Legging Jeans (Black)

These jeans are the bomb. They keep their shape like no other jeans and the leg opening is nice and slim so they fit well into my moto boots. #winner

6 | Clare V Flat Clutch Supreme

My favorite clutch (dare I say) ever. The neutral pattern is perfection. I feel so stylish when I'm carrying this bag. The only downside is the limited space inside. 

7 | GapFit Breathe Long-Sleeve Tee

I swear I'll stop droning on about these tees after this post. However, they are worth all this hype. I wear them working out, lounging, layered up, etc. 

8 | Steve Madden Msfresh Moto Boots

At last, my moto boot search has come to an end. These are so cute, but not the most comfortable. I've been breaking them in the past week and they're much better already. 

9 | Nike Air Pegasus '83 (Similar)

I'm cheating with this one. These sneakers were purchased last fall, but I've been wearing them so much this year I had to include them.  I love these shoes with skinny jeans!

10 | Lululemon Rebel Runner Crop (Grey)

I just got these capris in Seattle. They are extremely comfortable and flattering. Plus, they have a pocket on the leg to hold your phone. Genius!