Nightly Routine

Hi darlings! So as many of you should know, your nightly routine is a very recommended necessity especially if you're a person who wears makeup. Without this you will break out and it's just not good for you! Here is what I have been currently loving lately and this is what I have found works for me.

Just a little side note, this is a routine that works for MY skin. I understand that everyone doesn't have the same skin type and what-not, but this is what works for me t the moment. By the way, I have combination-oily skin.

Also, I do use a lot of a certain brand name. This doesn't mean that this is me "picking a favorite" or anything. I have tried so many different brands, and like I've said probably 500 times since I started this post, this is what works for me.

Okay NOW let's get started.

Before I do absolutely anything, I make sure my pajamas are on, hair is up, contacts are out, HANDS ARE WASHED, and my hair is no-where near getting in my face (that can get annoying!) What I use to keep my hair back is my Glitzy-Glam Waffle Weave Headband. You can buy this at http://glitzy-glam.com/ for $10 and sometimes even on sale. They have a variety of headband choices as well as monogram choices. I got mine in a black headband with a hot pink B on it.

After I have gotten all situated, I start by removing my eye makeup. I use MAC's Eye Makeup Remover with a cotton ball and I just take off as much as I possibly can. I have noticed that this actually works pretty well with mascara.

I then get my MAC Cleanse Off Oil, and with my hands and about 2 pumps I just spread it out over my face trying to remove as much makeup as it let's me. I know a lot of people do not like anything oily on their skin and usually I'm that person. But one day I was browsing at the MAC store and asked my MAC lady just how this worked and if it was "icky" on the skin. I ended up having her remove my makeup with it and I fell in love. It's kind of like a dry kind of oil, if that makes any sense.

Just to make sure I removed all the makeup off of my face I use a MAC makeup wipe just to get ready to wash my face. Remember, if you leave your makeup on before you wash your face, you're really not washing your face. You're just going to be removing your makeup.

Now I'm ready to wash my face...

Everyday I always use my MAC Green Gel Cleanser. I've always had a problem finding the right cleanser because for some reason my eyes just burn so easily with some products. But with the Green Gel Cleanser it works absolute wonders. I rub it all over my face and then I use my Clarisonic Mia and use it until the one minute is up.

I then use step 2 of the Clinique 3-Step Skincare System. This step is the toner. I just get a cotton ball get some product on it and apply it to my face.

The FINAL step is using the 3rd step of the Clinique 3-Step Skincare System, which is the moisturizer.

I know this seems like I use a lot of products,


My favorite skincare product this month has been my LUSH Ocean Salt. I use this 3 days a week, usually on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. I should point out that if you have sensitive skin, this product might be a little big harsh on your face. I have in between sensitive and normal skin so at first it did sting a little bit. But after using it a couple of times I fell in love. What I do is I wash my face (skincare routine is coming soon this week!) then I apply my ocean salt, let it sit for about a minute or so and then wash my face. I can feel all of my pores open up and I just feel so clean! You can purchase this at any LUSH counter or at http://www.lush.com/. I bought the $19.95 4.2oz just to try it out, but you can also get 8.8oz for $34.95. I definitely plan on getting the 8.8oz next time I go shopping for this product because this just how much I love it!

Makeup Wishlist

So I'm stuck in bed with a little bug of something going on with my body. Seems like nothing too drastic but it's definitely nothing exciting and fun. Since I really don't have much to do, I'm just browsing different websites just looking up some new and old products that I have my eye on buying in the near future. Here's what I plan on getting at sometime or another.

From Sephora/ULTA

- Urban Decay Naked Palette (I plan on buying that next week for sure!)

- Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil's in Baked, Dime and Gunmetal

- All of the new NARS Lipglosses (Super Orgasm, Albatross, Angelika, Luster, Oasis and Strawberry Fields)

- NARS Blush in Desire

- NARS Eye Shadows in Abyssinia, Ashes To Ashes, Cairo, Nepal and Voyage

- MakeupForever Eye Shadows in Earth 13, Pearly Orange 25, Chocolate Matte 29 and Copper 54

From MAC

- Haute & Naughty Lash Mascara

- Springsheen Blush

- Baby Sparks Dazzleglass

- Honeylove Lipstick

- 195 Brush

- Shy Girl Lipstick

- Shadowy Lady Eye Shadow

- Wedge Eye Shadow

- Saddle Eye Shadow

- Oyster Girl Lipglass

- Prrr Lipglass

- Rags to Riches Dazzleglass

LUSH (Some of these products are products that I already own, that I just need backups of)

- I Love Juicy Shampoo

- Frosty Glitter Bubble Bar

- Sunny Side Bubble Bar

- Honey Bee Bath Bomb

- Butterball Bath Bomb

- Ma Bar Bubble Bar

- Karma Bubble Bar

- Sex Bomb Bath Bomb

- Blackberry Bath Bomb (ALWAYS a favorite!)

- Think Pink Bath Bomb

- The Happy Pill

- Space Girl Bath Bomb

Expect a haul (or a couple of hauls) in the future, along with reviews!

Goodnight!

xoxo,

Brandy

Midnight Ramblings

As I lay here in bed, with my face mask on, watching Big Brother After Dark I decided I should just grab my laptop and start "blog rambling." I have to say, I am counting down the days until next Thursday (the 29th). That will be the LAST time I ever speak Spanish ever again!! Well, maybe not but it will be the last time I ever learn about it! This summer has felt like pretty much a complete waste. Mainly because including the time before summer school started I only get 3 weeks of summer vacation. I was off for 2 weeks before and I have a week before school starts. I am looking forward to tomorrow because after my morning class which gets out at 10:45am, the weekend will FINALLY be here! Funny how I say finally because this week definitely went by so fast! Am I the only one who thinks that?

So the new MAC collection comes out next Thursday. I believe it's called "Dare to Wear." I'm sad to say that I'm not too excited for it. 1. because I'm pretty sure I have dupes of every shadow coming out, and 2. the glosses don't really catch my eye. There is one that I think is cute, so I might get it for that reason and plus I would like at least one in the new packaging. By the way, the packaging is only for this collection. In case you didn't know lol.

My room is coming together greatly! I think I'm getting some more stuff for it this weekend, so hopefully I will have a room tour up very very soon! I posted a picture of my new makeup storage, and I am possibly posting that soon, but I really want to get my vanity before I do that just so that it's 100% put together. Hopefully you all won't be mad if it gets put off for like 2 weeks. I'm hoping for less!

I do have a bunch of posts in mind that I want to do, so be on the lookout for some pretty exciting things! I would like to find a way to get more followers without "begging" for any or any of that because I would like to do an exciting contest! I already have prizes and a theme in mind!

Well I guess it's time for me to take this mask off and get to bed. 7:00am comes a lot sooner than you might think! Goodnight everyone!


xoxo

Makeup Collection - The Disaster Before

WARNING! This is NOT how I store my makeup. This was just the beginning process before I organized it. Before I just had them very unorganized in the plastic drawers from Target. Here is just a few shots of what I was dealing with. My actual makeup collection should be up this weekend. I'm still trying to figure out how to make it as detailed as possible. Plus for some reason iPhoto won't import pictures from my camera, so I need to figure all of that out because I want good quality pictures!

Workout Blog: Week 3 (How am I still walking?)

Well well... I must say that I am somewhat proud of myself this week. I made it a point to workout EVERYDAY (except for Saturday. I needed a day off.) Monday me and my friend Lauren wanted to go to a cycle class at our school but we got the days mixed up because since summer I ended and summer II began they changed days. So instead of wasting valuable time we ended up working out for an hour. Tuesday and Wednesday I went back to my gym and did my usual (workout routine will be up this week). Thursday me and Lauren went to a cycle class. She had been before but this was my first time. I have to say that I was VERY nervous because I've heard it's pretty intense. Hmm let me put it this way, anything anyone ever told you about it... imagine it a MILLION times worse. Actually, I'm not sure if I can say that exactly. We had a horrible instructor who was just rude and didn't care about any of us! So I don't think I will be going back.

I am looking forward to the new schedule at my actual gym. The schedule changes monthly, and this month it looks like I can start going to zumba! If you've never done this before, it's so much fun! So hopefully this week I can check it out. Some people were confused about me going to 2 gyms. Technically I only go to one. The rec at my school is paid for in my tuition, but I just don't really like it. The gym that I pay for every 2 weeks is a close to my house and it just seems more for me. Plus there is also one close to my school so when the fall semester starts I will be able to switch it up.

This week I'm hoping to change up my routine, which hopefully you'll find out this week in my workout routine blog post. Well that's it for this week. I am looking into some lunch and snack recipes, but I haven't really found much. If you know of any good sites, don't hesitate to let me know!!

Have a terrific week everyone!
Share a smile with someone (:

xoxo,
Brandy

Workout Blog: Week 2 = Fail.

Let me start this weeks blog with... what in the world was I thinking?! This week something just wasn't right. I didn't go to the gym once and I had no motivation to eat right. Don't get me wrong, I'm very motivated to get this done and to do it right. Last week I just had so much going on with school. I had a final in my accounting class, and I started another class. So my hours were so messed up and I just couldn't get to the gym. I honestly shouldn't be giving excuses because my gym opens at 5AM and closes at midnight EVERYDAY! I know should have made time to get my butt there to workout.

So I guess that's really all I have to say for this week. I do apologize for my lack of trying. This upcoming week is going to be a COMPLETELY different ball game! I even have something new I'm doing this week!

Goals for the Week:
1. Workout EVERY SINGLE DAY!!
2. No soda. No exceptions. None. Zero. Zilch.
3. Find new workouts that concentrate on abs.
4. Survive the new thing I'm doing this week - Details in next weeks blog! 

xoxo,
Brandy

Workout Blog - Week 1 Recap

First a foremost... HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!! - Well yesterday. I hope everyone had an excited fun-filled day! I wanted to make sure that I posted these blogs on Sunday of the next week, but since it was the holiday I decided to do this today. This past week I FINALLY decided to kick my new healthy lifestyle into full gear. On Monday I went to the gym to get a new membership. I must say, when I was walking to the door from my car I was practically shaking because I was so nervous! When I was in high school I was very athletic and very much into keeping up a decent image. Not too skinny but healthy. For the past 3 years I kind of let that slip a bit. I do play co-ed flag football during the fall and co-ed softball during the spring for school, but other than that I really don't do anything - especially when it comes to eating. Food as always been my safety. I don't know, I guess it's safe to say that I kind of have a junk food addiction. 

When I was filling out my gym membership application, they asked me a lot of questions that had me thinking. One of them was "What is your starting weight and goal weight?" My answers:

Current: 140

Goal: 120

I figured that I wanted to keep my goal a little bit realistic. I know 20 pounds might seem like a lot, but I'm giving myself a pretty decent time frame. I would love to reach my goal by the beginning of the fall semester (which is around the last week of August) So almost about 2 months. The reason why I want to reach my goal by then, is because 1. it would be great to use the beginning of my last official year of school in the best shape and looking great! 2. Plus, at the beginning of the semester we have this all Greek mixer with all of the fraternity and sorority's on campus - which is a pool party at the school rec. So I would definitely love to be very confident! Last year I basically stayed in my bathing suit wrap the whole time!

Monday - I didn't workout because I just went to sign-up at the gym.

Tuesday - Thursday - I went to workout around 3 and I stayed for about an hour and a half. I rode 5 miles on the bike, jogged on the treadmill for 20 minutes (ran for the last 5 minutes), did 50 crunches and 50 leg pushes.

Friday - I hurt my back so I couldn't workout

Saturday & Sunday - Back still hurt/4th of July

I tried to drink as much water as possible. I have a mini fridge in my room filled with water so I usually reach for that as much as possible. I do have my soda addiction, which I'm trying to ease away from as much as possible. It's a lot harder than I thought but I'm working on it!

Goals for the Week:

- Drink A LOT more water

- Workout everyday no exceptions!

- Ease up on the junk food

- No eating after 7:30

Review: LUSH BIG Shampoo

Before I get started with this review let me give you the description of this product. All courtesy of Lush.com

Sea salt gives limp locks a major lift, so we put as much as possible into this best-selling shampoo (about half the content is sea salt). This is the shampoo for thin hair in need of volume. We add toothed wrack seaweed infusion for nourishment and softness and fresh lime juice and lemon infusion to add loads of lustre. And if you hadn't already guessed, all that salt, lemon and lime end up making Big smell much like a delicious citrus margarita for your hair. 

I have to say, when I first started using this product I was a little skeptical about it. Mainly for the reason that I'm so used to using shampoos out of a bottle and not out of a jar. If you've ever been inside of LUSH store, you already know what this smells like. And I'm not saying because you've smelled the actual product, but because it smells just like a LUSH store! It's very fresh and it's not TOO overpowering for a shampoo. The texture of this shampoo definitely feels like sea salt which is kind of awkward. But when you work this into your hair it lathers SO well!! It feels so good to rub through your hair and it just leaves your hair feeling great!

I know the description says it helps thin hair have more volume, but I have very thick hair and it works wonders on mine!


With my hair I have to put conditioner in my hair otherwise it will not be manageable! But after using this product it almost feels like you could completely skip the conditioner step. This product retails for $22.95, but in my opinion it is well worth the investment. From your face to your hair, I just think that you should only buy the best products possible. Because come on, those are your main features!

 My grade: A

xoxo,
Brandy

Haul: MAC To The Beach Collection

Hi dolls! So as you all know, MAC released their To the Beach Collection at the end of May. I've been buying the products here and there because I wanted to try out some of the products a few at a time. I am finally finished my shopping. I MIGHT go get one more eye shadow this week, but for the most part I think I'm done. Here are the products I got:

*Note: I'll be honest, I did not like the quality of each individual product that I took a picture of. There is a group picture on my camera but I'm having some technical difficulties with that. So just check back in a few days to see the picture of everything if you want. ALL picture credit goes to http://www.temptalia.com

Sand & Sun Eye Shadow

This eye shadow is a matte peach color that I definitely do not have in my collection. I think this color is gorgeous! It goes great with neutral looks, and I even tried it with a more colored look and it looked perfect!

Fire Cracker Eye Shadow

This is probably the main eye shadow I wanted to get because I absolutely fell in love with it the day I saw the preview. It is a Veluxe Pearl finish. The best way to describe this shadow according to the MAC website is, frosted mid-tone red orange color. And they're right. It's a perfect color for when you want to add that little pop of color into any look.

Shimmermoss Eye Shadow

I decided to invest in this color because it just screams summer. I know this color is in the permanent collection, but I just couldn't pass on the adorable packaging! And good thing is that if I love it enough, I'll always be able to go get a new one to depot it and put it in the pretty packaging. Genius, right?! This shadow is also a Veluxe Pearl finish. It's a gorgeous bright blue-green color. I used it yesterday under my lash line to add a pop of color and I got so many compliments on it! Sad news though, right when I got home and opened it... it BROKE!! So now this gorgeous shadow is smushed. Might as well be a pigment now lol.... but hey, I'm still going to use every bit of it!

I didn't get the other 2 shadows because I already own Humid (The dark green) and I honestly don't use it enough to go get another. And as for Sweet and Punchy (The lime greenish) I'm still on the fence with that one. That's the only product left that I'm debating on going to get. What do y'all think? Would it be worth it?

Hipness Blush

This is probably one of my favorite purchases from this collection because the color is absolutely STUNNING on me. It's a beautiful coral color that I cannot get enough of. I've found a way to wear every single day since I bought it even if I had to mix it with another color. It's so gorgeous! I would buy a back up, but unfortunately all of my MAC stores are sold out!

In your opinion, what's a good back up? I might have to get it when this runs out!

Get-Away Bronze Blush

This is a blush that I really hesitant on buying. I just felt that I already had a few colors in my collection that looked like this, and I even had a few bronzers that were pretty identical. But after going to swatch it about 3 times, I finally got it. I actually got 2 of them because I love it! It's the perfect blush for the days where you don't want any concentration on your cheeks. Very flawless bronze color with a perfect amount of shimmer to it.

Beach Bronze Cream Bronzer

Let's put it this way, if all 6 of my MAC counters/stores weren't sold out I would probably own 5 or more of these. I am so impressed with this. It is a cream to powder bronzer that goes great when you add just a little bit to your cheeks. I use it kind of like a contour and it gives me that glowy skin that everyone is always wanting to get! A+ on this one!

Refined Golden Bronzer

Okay, I'm not going to lie to y'all... I only bought this because of the packaging. This used to be my go-to bronzer before I discovered my NARS Laguna. I've never had a problem with this bronzer, and I actually still love it, but I just found something else. Now... I think I'm going to switch back to this one. I remembered today why I loved it so much in the first place. Good thing about this being permanent, just like the Shimmermoss Eye Shadow, I'm going to be able to depot the other one and put it in this adorable packaging!

Scorcher Nail Polish

Such a gorgeous color!! As y'all know, I'm a huge nail polish fanatic (speaking of which... collection post is coming soon!) This was actually my first MAC nail polish and I'm very impressed with it. From the application to the finish, this is the perfect bright coral red color for summer. Good job, MAC.

Left: Pink Rebel Lustre Drops
Right: Sun Rush Lustre Drops

I have been DYING to get these again, because I recently ran out of my other one from the Style Warriors Collection. These work wonders when it comes to applying your highlight and it gives you such a great finish without looking like your face is oily kind of shiny. Does that make sense? Plus, and this might sound weird... I think they look cute in my drawers haha

Left to Right: Flurry of Fun, Easy Lounger, Splashing Lipglass

I bought each of these colors because I really don't have these kinds of colors in my collection. Well, with the exception of Easy Lounger which is a pretty common color. But it's stunning! I love all of these with the exception of Splashing. I'm still working on a good combination to use it with. I want it to be a little subtle but with that BAM of color. Ya know?

Beachbound Lipstick

One of my favorite purchases by far! SUCH a gorgeous color. I'm stealing this comparison from Elle (Allthatglitters21 on YouTube) who said this color looked like an orange creamsicle! She's definitely right about that. It's the perfect nude with a flawless finish to where it doesn't necessarily look like your typical nude. This paired with the lipglasses from the collection = perfection.

To The Beach Body Oil

I'm still so angry with my self. I even started this section with a sigh. Me being well... me waited until the last possible second to go buy this and what happened.... THEY SOLD OUT!! Luckily, the oh so generous MAC lady gave me not one... but TWO pretty good samples of this bad boy. Sadly, I'm going to have to pick the perfect moments to wear it, which won't be many... but when I look forward to the days I do wear it.

Marine Life Highlight Powder

Last but not least, I did give into the hype. And honestly, I'm not as impressed as I wanted to be. Don't get me wrong, I do like it. However it wasn't really worth the rush. Even though I wouldn't have it today if I didn't run out to get it that day. I actually wish I would've gotten the body oil instead. This product is nice, but I just think that I have blushes from the permanent line, and from other brands that do basically the same thing. Oh the things MAC and YouTube make you do.



Well that's it. I actually bought some more stuff from ULTA and Sephora, but I wanted to dedicate this post to this collection. I might do a future post about that soon. Anywho, what did YOU get from this collection?

I will be doing more tutorials including these products!

FTC: I purchased all of these products with my own money. I am not being paid for this post. I am not affiliated with this company in anyway. ALL opinions are my own. Everything else is just clearly stated in the post. (:


xoxo,
Brandy

Just In Case You Wanted to Know

 Hair:

Shampoo: LUSH BIG Shampoo

Condtioner: Aussie Moist Conditioner

Mask: Aussie 3 Minute Miracle

Tool: CHI Straightener (on the days I straighten my hair of course)

Body:

Cream: Jergen's Natural Glow

Deoderant: Secret Vanilla

Face:

Cleanser: Clinique 3-Step Skin Care System

Moisterizer: Clinique Dramatically Different Gel

Makeup:

Primer: Laura Mercier Foundation Primer

Foundation: Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation in Cashew Beige and MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural

Concealer: MakeupForever Full Cover Concealer in shade 12 for blemishes and Laura Mercier Undercover Pot #4 for under my eyes

Blusher: I am currently LOVING MAC's Hipness blush from the To The Beach Collection and NARS Orgasm blush

Bronzer: NARS Laguna

Highlighter: Benefit Moonbeam with MAC Soft and Gentle MSF with a little MAC Gold Deposit MSF over it. I've also been using my MAC Marine Life when I know I'm going to be outside for most of the day

Eyeshadow Base: Any one of my MAC paint pots, UDPP, and I just bought the MakeupForever Flash palette, so I'll be using that a lot!

Eyeshadow: Lately my everyday look consists of MAC Honey Lust, Mythology, Antiqued, Cranberry and Black Tied with the highlight from the NARS eyeshadow duo

Eyeliner: MAC Teddy (brown)

Lipstick: MAC Blankety

Lipgloss: MAC Easy Lounger Lipglass from the To The Beach collection and MAC Boy Bait Creamsheen Glass

Nail Varnish: OPI Shorts Story

I tag YOU!! (:

Tag: 25 Questions

This a tag going around the beauty community, and I thought I would give it a try. You should too!!


1. Do you have any pets?

No, I used to have a dog. He was a black and white shitzu that lived to be 17. We were only months apart so I grew up with him. It was hard losing him, and we just haven't had the heart to get another animal. 

2. Name 3 things that are physically close to you.

Cell phone, Coke can, Bath and Body Works Coconut Lime Verbana candle (all on my nightstand)

3. What's the weather like right now?

Very sunny and VERY hot!

4. Do you drive? If so have you crashed?

Yes I do, and yes I have. Don't worry, I was perfectly okay and it wasn't my fault. It was almost about 2 years ago. It happened at a stop light and the car who hit me was turning from a lane that he shouldn't have been turning in and hit me. Very scary moment though!

5. What time did you wake up this morning?

9:30am. I had to wake up to get ready for class!

6. When was the last time you showered?

This morning at around 9:45

7. What was the last movie you saw?

I rented When in Rome, it was adorable!

8. What does your last text message say?

I'm updating my iPhone to the new version so my phone is not useable right now... but if I remember correctly it was my friend saying we should go swimming!

9. What's your ringtone?

3AM by Matchbox Twenty

10. Have you ever been to a different country?

Not yet, but soon! The main places I want to visit are Spain, Paris, London and Greece.

11. Do you like sushi?

It's only one of my favorite foods ever!! I LOOVE sushi!

12. Where do you buy your groceries?

A local grocery store and Whole Foods

13. Have you ever taken medication to help you fall asleep faster?

Only when I'm sick. When I'm sick Nyquil is my best friend haha

14. How many siblings do you have?

I'm an only child!

15. Do you have a desktop computer or a laptop?

A laptop - A MacBook to be more specific

16. How old will you be turning on your next birthday?

22

17. Do you wear contacts or glasses?

Both. Mainly contacts, but when I'm at home or having a lazy day I wear my glasses

18. Do you color your hair?

Never have. But I do plan on getting highlights soon.

19. Tell me something you are planning to do today.

Some accounting homework and I plan on watching The Bachelorette and Real Housewives of New Jersey. 

20. When was the last time you cried?

I saw an episode of One Tree Hill that had me in tears. I cry for everything! Especially mushy stuff like that lol

21. What is your perfect pizza topping?

Pepperoni and mushroom!

22. Which do you prefer-hamburgers or cheeseburgers?

Cheeseburgers!

23. Have you ever had an all-nighter?

Definitely. When you're in college that's all you do! It pays off if you're a last minute studier like I am. But it's really not good for you!

24. What is your eye color?

Hazel and green. My eye color changes with the lighting, so it just depends on the day.

25. Can you taste the difference between Pepsi and Coke?

Oh yeah! I can never understand when people say they can't. Don't get me wrong, I like both. I prefer Coke more than Pepsi but I can definitely tell the difference.

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http://www.twitter.com/BrandyDavis13

Review: LUSH Bubblegum Lip Scrub

A while back LUSH came out with three new lip scrubs in bubble gum, mint julip, and sweet lips. They all retail for $8.95 and seem like they would last for a long time because when you do use the product, you don't use a lot. I decided to just get the one in bubble gum because the lady at the LUSH counter said it smells just like Snow Fairy. Which is my favorite scent from LUSH. I even got 9 shower gels when it came out during the holidays.

My overall thought? I like it. I keep it on my nightstand and use it every other day when I go to sleep. When I wake up in the morning (feeling like P. Diddy) my lips are very moistened and taste really yummy! The only thing that I don't like is that I literally want to eat it straight from the jar because it tastes so good! I'm not going to, but since it is edible it is very tempting! I do have to say that it basically sugar. So if you don't feel like paying the $8.95, or if you don't have access to a LUSH store to try them out for yourself, you definitely can make your own.

I just think it is a very fun product, and definitely for the person who loves new things for their lips! I do plan on trying the other two, and when I do expect a new blog post review!

Until next time...

xoxo,
Brandy

New Wardrobe Ideas

Hi dolls. As I wait for my Monday night TV show routine (One Tree Hill, Gossip Girl, and Real Housewives of New Jersey) I am just browsing different websites and online articles trying to get some ideas for my new wardrobe change. I just think that now that I'm planning my "mature" bedroom, I should associate a new wardrobe to go with it. 


Everyone knows that I idolize the Kardashian sisters (Kim, Khloe and Kourtney) so much. From their personalities, to their success, to most importantly their style, I just think they are so gorgeous! It just blows my mind that they could look completely put together even when they go to the gym! Another person's style that I really like is Kristin Cavallari (Laguna Beach/The Hills) I like her more casual style for something  everyday such as school and whatnot. 


Those girls just have the best style and are always up-to-date with the hottest trends so it's so easy to look up to them! Here are some ideas that I've just come up with today. I'm always interested in different ideas, so if you guys have any suggestions, feel free to comment and let me know!

Until next time...


xoxo,
Brandy

Whenever You Need a Pick-Me-Up

Please remember this quote. I printed it out and I plan on framing it or printing out multiples to put it places I'll need it (in my purse, car, etc.) 


"Take a look at yourself in the mirror. Who do you see looking back? Is it the person you want to be? Or there someone else you were meant to be, the person you were meant to be but fell short of? Is someone telling you you can't or you won't? Because you can. Believe that love is out there. Believe that dreams come true everyday, because they do. Sometimes happiness doesn't come from money, or fame, or power. Sometimes happiness comes from good friends & family. From the quiet nobility of living a good life. So take a look in that mirror & remind yourself to be happy, because you deserve to be. Believe that. Believe that dreams come true everyday, because they do." ♥ 




xoxo,
Brandy

Pamper Me Sunday!

First off, Happy Mother's Day to every mother figure out there!! I hope everyone had a great day with their mamas!

Also, Happy Pamper Me Sunday!! This is a tradition I started a while back, and I have stuck to it pretty well. The name is pretty self explaining, but here is my general definition of it and what it consists of.

I usually start this after my parents go to sleep and the house is dead quiet.

My first step is a LUSH bath, candles lit in my bathroom, a good magazine or book and some music playing. Tonight I used Comforter Bubble Bar. This is my absolute favorite bubble bar. I have about 6 back ups! It has a million bubbles and smells AMAZING!!

The candle I have in my bathroom is from Coconut Lime Verbana from Bath and Body Works. This is the best restroom scent to have because it is just so refreshing!

Tonights magazine was last months Seventeen magazine. Thanks to school I got behind on my subscriptions!

After I go through my nightly face washing routine (which will be up later this week) I put on my Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask. I absolutely love this mask because it smells so minty and refreshing and it certainly does the job!

When you finish all of that, light some candles, pop in a chick flick, put on some Nivea Kiss of Moisture, and there you go!











So now I'm cuddle up in bed in my candle lit room (I have 2 Vanilla Cupcake candles from Yankee Candle lit) watching How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.

This routine is so relaxing and much needed especially after a week full of finals!!

I hope everyone gives this a shot! Goodnight everyone!

xoxo,
Brandy

Wish List - MAC To the Beach Collection

As many of you know, MAC is releasing the new To the Beach collection on May 27, 2010. Everyone has been getting so excited for this collection to come out, and I don't blame them. Everything is just so gorgeous!! From the colors, to the quality, to most importantly, THE PACKAGING!! Here are the items that I've seen so far that I'm really looking forward to getting.

Pictures and information thanks to Temptalia

Bronze Body Oil ($22.00 U.S. / $27.00 CDN)

Glowing Tan with multi-dimensional golden shimmer (Limited Edition)

I just know that this 1. would look great in my collection and 2. it would be the best accessory to wear to the beach, to the pool, or anywhere during summer!!

Bronzing Powder ($22.00 U.S. / $27.00 CDN)

Sun Rush Peachy bronze with gold pearl (Limited Edition)

I am always looking for a new bronzer. I don't mind having multiple different kinds and brands in my collection because throughout the year I go from one shade to another. I think this would be a good addition

Powder Blush ($18.50 U.S. / $22.00 CDN)

Hipness Intense coral with soft white pearl (Frost) (Limited Edition) (Repromote)

This looks like a color that would be a fun color to wear in the summer. I think it will give a perfect flushed look and would look great paired up with a pretty highlight

High-Light Powder ($26.00 U.S. / $32.00 CDN)

Marine Life Multi-color pressed powder

I mean really? Does this need explanation?! Even if this completely doesn't work for me, this is the cutest thing ever!! I hope it does work for me, because it would be such a great necessity!

Lipglass ($14.00 U.S. / $16.50 CDN)

Easy Lounger Light baby pink with multi-dimensional pearl (Limited Edition)

Flurry of Fun Sheer sparkly peach (Limited Edition)

Splashing Mid-tone blue pink with soft gold pearl (Limited Edition)

This are all gorgeous colors and the perfect colors for the hot summer days!

I honestly cannot wait for this collection and after writing this post, I'm even more excited! Haha

I would love it if y'all would post a comment about what y'all are planning on getting!

Goodnight!

xoxo,

Brandy 

Favorites - April Edition

It's May 3, 2010 and I'm finally getting a chance to do my April favorites! This week is finals and so I've been busy studying. My last final is Friday and then I have a break! Well until I start summer school, of course. So I'm just going to get into it before I start rambling on!

First are my NYX blotting sheets. This is the perfect to use in the middle of the day when you feel like your makeup needs a little touch up. I have combination skin, so I feel better when I use these about mid-day. A must have essential for anyone's purse!

My next favorite is DKNY Be Delicious perfume.. The best smell for spring! I even have the travel rollerball in my purse! I tend to wear different perfumes all the time (I'll be doing a perfume collection soon) but I always find myself wearing this during the day.

Yes, I know Bath and Body Works Vanilla Bean Noel is obviously a Christmas lotion, but I have to admit that this is my favorite scent EVER! I even had to buy 3 backups because if I run out before next Christmas I will not be happy. This is just such a happy scent and I just feel so pretty when I put it on! This mixed with any perfume is the best combination!

I have 5 words: THE. BEST. LIP. COMBO. EVER!!! On the left is Tarina Tarantino Lipstick in Leatherette. On the right is Too Faced Glamour Gloss in First Time The Too Faced gloss is also a lip plumper that I actually think works wonders! I have been so obsessed with the combination that I have yet to reach for something else. Even though since I bought these I have bought a lot of lipsticks and lip glosses. I actually kind of feel sorry for my other lip products lol. If you love the perfect nude lip, I suggest getting these two.

This mineralize blush duo in Light Over Dark is from the new MAC collection Pret A Papier. When I swatched this in the store I wasn't too sure how I would feel about it. It didn't have THAT much color and I just thought that I wouldn't reach for it as much. I decided to buy it just because I really had nothing like it in my collection. I usually try not to buy something just because it's cute or whatever, just because I feel I am wasting my money. But I decided to give this a chance I find myself using this practically everyday. It's the perfect blush to keep a subtle look. I suggest this for almost anyone!

My next favorite is my highlight routine. I first start with my Fresh Twilight Freshface Glow on my cheekbones up to my temples, then add some of MAC's Hush Cream Colour Base. Then finish off with MAC's MSF in Soft and Gentle along my cheekbones, nose and chin. I have gotten a lot of compliments on my glowy skin and I definitely have this combo to thank.

I have found myself reaching for this eye combo practically all month. I didn't take an "eye primer" picture because that generally changes basically everyday. But pictured from left to right (All MAC eye shadows by the way): All That Glitters [lid], Satin Taupe [crease/outer corner], Nylon [highlight]. This combination is the perfect typical day combination. It's really subtle and exactly what I need to get me through the day.

My foundation routine has been a little bit different this month. Where I live it's gotten REALLY hot and pretty humid, so I have tried to avoid any liquid foundation. I still needed some kind of coverage because I do have some imperfections that needed covering up. From left to right: Benefit You Rebel Light Tinted Moisturizer, MAC Studio Sculpt Concealer in NW25, MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural in Medium Dark, Benefit Moon Beam. I think this foundation routine is the best for the summer heat and it still gives me the coverage I need.

This next favorite is a product that I think doesn't get enough credit. The Smashbox Photo Finish Light Primer is a product that is either a major trend in the beauty community, or the least favorite. I actually love this and I tend to use this all the time. It works great with my skin and I think it helps my foundation last all day!

MAC's Constructivist Paint Pot is the BEST primer for a brown smokey eye. I used this for a smokey eye that I did for my sorority formal (which I will do a tutorial on soon) and I loved it!! You don't even need that many products to make this look work!


Phew! That took a while! I hope y'all know that I make sure that when I planned this, I made sure I only put products that I've been using for more than 3/4 of April. I recommend every single one of these products to anyone and everyone!

Random Favorites:




The Vampire Diaries This show keeps getting better and better! It's nothing like Twilight and definitely worth getting addicted to.





FTC: I purchased everything on my own. I'm not being paid for this. I'm not affiliated with any of the company's mentioned. This is my honest opinion.


Until next time...

xoxo,
Brandy