The Beauty Products that are Saving my Skin this Winter...

For one reason or another this winter has seriously taken its toll on my skin. I never used to really worry about the change in seasons in regards to skin care, but this year has been different. I'll blame it on the fact that I'm going to turn 30 in a few weeks! 

Lucky for me, I found some really great products that are keeping my skin moisturized this winter...

These three products have been my go-to all winter long. 

I am not a big fan of lotion. It tends to be greasy and I never make time to apply it after a shower. However, my skin was so dry a few weeks ago, I set aside my extreme dislike for lotion and tried Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Lotion. 

I love that this product dries super fast, is unscented, and is an inexpensive drug-store purchase.  This lotion has saved by cracked elbows! 

I use Benefit's Total Moisture Facial Cream every other day before I go to sleep. This super thick formula is the perfect nighttime face lotion, but would be too thick for a daytime lotion. It soaks into the skin nicely and I always wake up with super soft skin. 

With all the wind and cold weather, my lips get super chapped. I love that Blistex soothes my red lips and makes them soft again. I have been applying this at night and first thing in the morning and it is definitely helping my lips from cracking. 

So, there you have it -- the three beauty products that are saving my skin this winter! 

Do you have any go-to products that you slather on in the winter? Chime in with a  comment below...

XOXO

Meg

PS: This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links. By clicking on the links and/or making a purchase through the links, I may receive a small commission. As always, thank you for supporting this little blog!

Meg's Everyday Beauty Favorites...

My morning beauty routine is really quite boring. I don't use a bag full of fancy potions and elixirs, or a cosmetic case full of department store make up finds. 

Nonetheless, I figure there is someone out there (hello?) that must like to keep their routine simple, budget friendly, and easy to apply. So this post is for you -- you no-fuss, make-up minimalist...

Here are my everyday beauty favorites....

Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer - I have really fair skin, so I have to have a moisturizer with a sunscreen in it. This moisturizer is super budget friendly and it gets the job done. I love that it isn't greasy and that it absorbs into my skin quickly. 

Benefit Big Easy BB Creme- I am really lucky, in that I have even, blemish free skin, so I don't need to use foundation or powder. I  received a small sample of this BB creme in my Birch Box and I like to add a little dollop of it to my moisturizer to get a little glow on my face. While the price tag on a full size tube is a bit more than I would otherwise spend, I may just have to buy this when my sample runs out. 

Benefit Fake-Up Under Eye Concealer- I have some serious baggage under my eyes -- and they aren't Louis Vuitton's! I like to dab this concealer under my eyes to diminish the appearance of my dark circles. This concealer goes on smooth and doesn't crease. 

St. Ives Even and Bright Scrub- I grew up using the St. Ives Apricot Scrub and recently switched over to this face wash. This scrub is considerably less grainy, so I am able to use it on a daily basis. I like to use it in the morning to achieve that bright, glowing skin look. 

Cover Girl Clear Mascara- On a regular day I just swipe my lashes with clear mascara before heading out the door. This clear gel also tames unruly brows. 

So there you have it! My every day beauty favorites -- the products that get the job done!

What products do you use on an everyday basis? Chime in with a comment below...

XOXO
Meg

PS: This post contains affiliate links. By clicking on these links, I may receive a small commission. As always, thank you for supporting this little blog. :)

January 2016 Birchbox

So.... I decided to subscribe to Birchbox again. I had it about a year and a half ago for six months or so and I canceled it because I am a hoarder and never actually used the samples. I get that from my mother. Thanks mom!

However, with my capsule wardrobe in the back of my mind and my new outlook on life, I am giving Birchbox another try. And you know what? I am actually really excited about trying out these new products. 

Here is my January 2016 box....

January 2016

Beautiful Nutrition Grapefruit Detox Shine Repair Shampoo

Beautiful Nutrition Grapefruit Detox Shine Repair Conditioner

derma e Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

nugg De-Stress Mask 

Cargo Swimmables Shadow Stick

Since I travel a lot, I always love sample size shampoos and conditioners. I leave for a trip in two weeks and I will be packing this duo. I am always up for trying new face lotions and creams, and I think the derma e sample is large enough to get a good enough feeling for the product. I try to do a face mask at least once a week, so I am eager to try the mask. The eye shadow stick is more or less a full size sample, so I'm looking forward to test driving it soon. 

I'll report back in a few weeks to share my thoughts on these products!

Anyone else a Birchbox subscriber? What did y'all get in your January box?

XOXO

Meg

Test Drive -- Dessange Paris California Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner

I am not very adventurous when it comes to hair products. I have a few tried and true "go to" brands and I don't change it up very often. When Influenster offered me the opportunity to test drive Dessange Paris California Blonde Illuminating Shampoo and Conditioner, I was both excited and a little apprehensive. I had never heard of the brand before, so I had no idea what to expect. 

I gave the new product a whirl... and here's what I thought...

Pros

• Both the shampoo and conditioner smelled amazing! The products are made with passion flower extracts and the scent made me think I was on a tropical vacation. 
• After rinsing out the shampoo, my hair felt squeaky clean! 
• I definitely noticed that my blonde highlights looked brighter and blonde. 

Cons

• The only thing I didn't like about the product was that my hair did not feel soft after I rinsed out the conditioner. 

The Verdict

• I really enjoyed using this product. I'm not sure I will purchase it in the future, but I am not ruling it out entirely. The fact that it illuminated my highlights was a huge plus for me. I only wish my hair felt soft after I used it. 

What shampoo and conditioner do y'all use?

XOXO

Meg

PS: I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own!

Beauty Tips and Products: New Mom Must Haves

I am going into my second month of being a "mom" and I love it. Although getting myself out of bed, getting dressed and brushing my teeth is an everyday struggle, I have learned the power of a list. Before I go on a rant about how amazing and life changing making a list can be for oneself, I want to dedicate this post to my favorite, quick beauty products and tips for new moms. 

Lansinoh Disposable Breast Pads
I had no idea how many breast pads I would go through the first month. I realize that every mom is different but these were a huge life saver for me (and my clothes, and sheets, and anything else I could possible "lactate on")

Traditional Medicinals Organic Mothers Milk Herbal Tea
Once I got pregnant last year I made the switch to tea and haven't switched back. I have always loved tea since I was a little girl, and with this tea I can now make sure my little girl is getting all the milk she can handle. I like this tea made with half water and milk and about 1/2 TB of sugar. 

Gilligan & O'Malley Henley Nursing Cami
This is one of the most comfortable and convenient tanks that I have every worn. Plus, it is very reasonably priced and it has the easy hook on the straps to nurse without any fussing. 
*TIP: When pregnant keep an eye out for nursing camis and shirts that go on sale (although it would be nice to buy some nursing bras in advanced as well, you won't have any idea how big your Ta Ta's may get)

Olay Classic Moisturizing Lotion
Although I don't put makeup on everyday (especially when I don't plan on leaving the house) this face lotion helps me feel awake and put together. It is super lightweight, doesn't make my face feel oily or smelly (which is a plus, don't ya think)! 
*TIP: After I apply the OLAY LOTION, I like to add a little mascara for a simple look. 



What are your beauty products or tips for new moms!

-Kir

Gardenia Tuberose Soap from Santa Barbara Aromatics

Remember a few weeks ago when I had the opportunity to try the Montecito Candle from Santa Barbara Aromatics? (If you missed it, click here!)

Well, thanks to generous shop owner, Seana, I also got to test drive her amazing Gardenia and Tuberose scented soap!

The soap arrived impeccably packed, wrapped in a cello bag and placed in a pretty organza bag tied with a tag. I love it when artisans use wrapping that can be re-used. It is good for the environment and makes me extra happy!

The soap is a luscious buttery-yellow color and features a little bit of golden shimmer to give it that extra special and glamorous touch.

 

The scent of this bar is intoxicating -- it filled my entire bathroom with the glorious fragrance of gardenia and tuberose. The fragrance transported me to a field of fresh dewy flowers. If Spring had a smell, this would be it! I even found myself smelling my skin throughout the day (don't laugh) and I was still able to pick up on the floral fragrance long after my shower. 

Winter wreaked havoc on my skin, leaving me dry and itchy, but after having used this soap for two weeks straight I have noticed an incredible difference. The soap's rich and luxurious lather left my skin soft and smooth thanks to its coconut, palm, and safflower oils.

 I can't say enough good things about this soap! It is absolutely incredible and such an amazing bath time treat! Be sure to pick one up for a friend or yourself. Your skin will thank you! Santa Barbara Aromatics also creates soaps in sandalwood cedar and honey orange! Both of which sound delicious!

XOXO

Meg

PS: Santa Barbara Aromatics graciously gifted me this soap. However, this is not a sponsored post and all opinions are my own.

Long Bob Hair Styles

Confession -- I haven't gotten my hair cut (and colored) since May 2013.

I know! I know! That's really bad.

I got a really cute angular bob right before my law school graduation and then I proceeded to put it in a pony tail for the duration of bar prep.

After the bar I was so so worried I didn't pass, I didn't want to spend the money to get my hair cut and styled if I was just going to put it into a pony again.

But I did pass and I should have made an appointment months ago, but I never got around to it.

Needless to say, I am in dire need of a cut, color, and style. ASAP.

Below are some of the hair styles I am contemplating!

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Now I just need to pick a hair style... and make an appointment! :)

XOXO

Meg

DIY Pedicure

It has been a very lazy weekend, which has been so nice! I actually found time to give myself a pedicure this morning -- a very rare occasion, indeed.

Don't get me wrong, I love going to the salon and getting my nails done, but it is way cheaper to DIY! Plus, this way I was able to soak my feet for as long as I wanted while watching last weeks episode of Hart of Dixie (if you don't watch this show, get on it!)

I started by filling my kitchen sink (no plug in my bath tub) with warm water and a spoon full of Natural Garden Soap's Fizzy Foot Soak. This soak left my feet feeling super soft and silky!

I soaked my feet for quite some time, which is a simple treat in and of itself. I made the executive decision that I am going to try and do this at least every two weeks.

Next, I used Julep's Vanish Cuticle Softener and Remover and an orange stick to remove unwanted cuticles. This was my first time using this product and I was very happy with the results. My nails look neat and trim thanks to this fancy elixir. 

I moisturized my tootsies with Julep's Mint Conditioner Pedi Creme. This stuff is amazing! The mint scent was cool and refreshing. My feet have never felt so soft!

Lastly, I swiped my nails with nail polish remover to remove any oils. I wasn't sure what color I wanted to wear, since both were birthday gifts from girlfriends. However, I ended up going with the bolder hue -- Essie's e-nuf is e-nuf.

What a fabulous way to spend my afternoon! Do y'all do your own pedi's or is the salon the only way to go? Chime in with a comment below!

XOXO

Meg

Relax & Unwind with Santa Barbara Aromatics' Candles

It has been one of those weeks. You know what I'm talking about? The kind where you don't leave the office until 7 (or 8) most nights. The kind where you come home, make dinner, but are too tired to do the dishes. So the dishes sit in the sink until you realize every dish you own is dirty.

Don't get me wrong. I love my job. Love. Love. Love it! There is nothing else in the world I would want to do. Being a lawyer is my dream job. But it is also very stressful at times. 

One thing I have learned over time is that when life gets crazy you have to treat yourself to the little luxuries -- a cupcake from that bakery on the corner, that pair of shoes you've been eying for months, or a new haircut. 

This week I discovered a new little luxury -- candles from Santa Barbara Aromatics!

I had the opportunity to sample the Montecito candle from Santa Barbara Aromatics and my goodness -- I have never smelled something so fresh and beautiful and spot on to the way Santa Barbara actually smells! I know that sounds funny -- but Santa Barbara does have a smell! (If you forgot how gorgeous Santa Barbara is click here, here, and here). 

 

The Montecito candle filled my living room with the heavenly scent of gardenia and tuberose-- two of my favorite fragrances! The fresh floral aroma danced its way through my apartment with out being too strong or over powering. The scent reminded me of warm summer days spent with friends, frolicking through the Montecito hills, making our way down to Butterfly Beach. The fragrance was warm and inviting. 

The candles are soy candles, which burn very evenly and clean. I burned mine every night this week and there is not a trace of black soot on the inside of the glass.  

I was very impressed with the packaging. My 10 ounce candle was hand poured into a thick and heavy glass container and topped with a glass lid. The label offers a gorgeous water colored image of the ocean and mountains. 

  

Shop owner and Santa Barbara native, Seana, mirrors each glorious scent after a famous Santa Barbara landmark. She hit Monetcito, an affluent area with massive estates, right on the money. 

As for other well known Santa Barabara hot spots, Seana offers  Mountain Drive, San Ysidro, Padaro Beach, Mission Rose, and Mirimar Beach. She also offers other floral and fruit fragrances -- perfect for the upcoming spring and summer months -- also perfect for Mother's Day gifts!

I know I will be back for more and I can't wait to treat myself to a new little luxury! I love Plumeria -- so probably the Padaro Beach candle! I'll let y'all know which one I choose! 

Check out Santa Barbara Aromatics etsy shop, website, and Facebook page!

XOXO

Meg

PS: Santa Barbara Aromatics gifted me this glorious candle. However, all thoughts and opinions regarding the product are my own. 

PPS: Congrats to our giveaway winner, Savannah! 

St. Patrick's Day Outfit Inspiration

Saint Patrick's Day is right around the corner! What will you be wearing? 

The outfit below offers just the right amount of green without being obnoxious or obvious! 

I'm attempting to talk myself into trying emerald nail polish for the 17th! I'll keep y'all posted if I do anything crazy! 

I had a lime green polish in junior high and my mom thought it was disgusting and told me it made my nails look like I had a fungus! Needless to say I didn't wear it very often. 

And looking back I will admit -- it was a pretty nasty shade! But it was from Limited Too (remember that store?) and I thought it was so cool!

Happy Monday! 

XOXO 

Meg 

PS: Need something green? Click here to enter our giveaway! 

St. Patrick's Day Outfit by megs2687 featuring white home decor

5 Unique Lingerie Shower Gifts -- That Won't Break The Bank

Wedding season is upon us, folks! And if you've been invited to the Lingerie Shower, you've probably also been invited to the engagement party, the bridal shower, the bachelorette party, and the wedding! Heck! You may even be a bridesmaid! All the festivities, while really fun, can take a tole on the ol' pocketbook!

When you get your lingerie shower invite, try and figure out how many people have been invited. If the bride is depending on her five closest friends to stock her up with some sexy lingerie, then you may want to go the more traditional gift giving route. However, if lots of girls have been invited, I'd say it is safe to stray a bit!

Here are some wallet friendly, unique, and far more user friendly lingerie shower gifts!

5 for $26 Victoria Secret Panties: Still a fairly traditional lingerie shower gift -- but as a married woman, I can promise you - these will get a lot more use then that $75 lacy bustier.  Any bride would be more than happy to have a new pair of panties for every day of her honeymoon. 

Here Comes the Bride Philosophy Gift Set: Perfect little lotion and shower gel set for the bride who likes to pamper herself. And if you haven't smelled this stuff -- it is blissful!

Mr & Mrs. Luggage Tags: Adorable luggage tags for the traveling couple! I love that these say "Mr." and "Mrs.," as opposed to "Bride" and "Groom," so they can be used for more than just the honeymoon!

Battery Operated Votive Set: For the bride who likes to set the mood with candles, this battery operated votive set is perfect to take on her honeymoon. 

Monogrammed Make-Up Bag: Have this adorable make-up bag embroidered with the Bride's new monogram! A gift that is sure to be appreciated! You can even fill it with sample sized versions of the bride's favorite shampoo, lotions, and body washes. 

Retro Apron: How adorable is this! Gift this apron with a pair of panties and instruct the bride to cook a meal in just this little ensemble.

Do y'all have any other unique lingerie shower gifts? Be sure to comment below!

XOXO

Meg

Hair-apy -- Argan Oil Hair Mask

My hair is so dry and over worked from the blow dryer and straightener -- some days it feels like straw.Plus -- I seriously need a hair cut and new highlights!

While at the grocery store this weekend, I stumbled upon an Argan Oil hair mask. At  under $2 a pop ,I thought I would give it a try. Plus, the packet is large, so I knew this wasn't going to be a one time use.

I wash my hair in the morning and am extremely limited on time, so I was happy to read on the packaging that I only had to keep this mask on for two to five minutes. Perfect -- just enough time for me to shave my legs -- or stand under the scalding water half asleep. Don't judge.

I tried the hair mask this morning and I was quite surprised with the results. 

Hi Pro Pac Argan Oil Masque

The mask is super thick and a little goes a long ways. It didn't really have a smell, which is fine by me, as I don't really care for scented hair products. 

I rubbed the serum all over my hair, concentrating most on the ends and let it soak for the recommended two to five minutes. 

I rinsed my hair -- and to my surprise -- my hair was softer and did not have an oily residue. Mission accomplished!

When I styled my hair it seemed to have more body (always a plus!)

I probably have three to four more uses out of this pack and I can't wait to use it again next week. 

Here's to having softer, more luxurious hair!

Megs

PS: I was not given this product, nor paid to review this product. I simply wanted to try it out and share my findings with y'all!

Beauty Gifts for the Glittery Girl

I love Christmas time! The lights, the decorations, the traditions! I also love all of the sparkles! Glitter, twinkle lights, tinsel! Oh -- if only every day was as sparkly as Christmas time! If you love sparkles as much as I do, check out these fabulous beauty finds! 

Little Lights Nail Polish

Diamond Eyes Shadow Trio

Morning Glow Moisturizer

Glitter Eyeliner

Colorburst Lip Gloss

I'm definitely not brave enough to try those glitter eye liners, but I'm obsessed with the Morning Glow moisturizer and the lip gloss! I use both of those in my daily beauty ritual. 

XOXO

Meg