Glossybox September - All You Need For Fall

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It’s officially Fall, and my Glossybox arrived just in time. The leaves are starting to turn from green to red and gold, the knee-high boots and cashmere sweaters came out of storage and are starting to roam the streets. Everywhere I turn I’m starting to catch a glimpse of tailored trench coats or a knot scarf, and I’m breaking it all out.

With the inspiration in the air, this month’s box focuses on all you need to update your look. From creating smoky eyes, amazing scents, larger than life lashes and the thickest and fullest hair you can imagine. With all the items I will outline below, I’m ready to start the new season as my most fashionable self.

Here is what I received:

  1. BCBG Maxazria Bon Genre Perfume - It has a very seductive scent, reminds me of an urban rocker chic. I love it, nice and deep for the Fall. Worth $75.00
  2. Be a Bombshell eyeliner pen in Onyx - The marker like tip goes on nicely so you can master the cat eye look. It’s long-lasting, and waterproof. Worth $14.00
  3. Emite Eyelash Curler - I’ve been itching to try a new one, and this arrived just in time. It has a special curved design that angles to suit all eye shapes and curls perfectly. Worth $30.50
  4. Nioxin Diamax Treatment - I’ve used this in the past and love it. But, it became a little pricey for me. I’m so excited that I received the full size in this month’s box. It literally has caffeine in it, and increases the fullness of any hair type. It also strengthens your locks. Worth $50.00
  5. Oceane Makeup Pen Remover - I never used a product like this, so I’m intrigued to try it. The tip of the pen has a liquid that is perfect for removing excess makeup during your application. It’s great to carry around with you during the day for touch ups. Worth $5.30

So there you go, Glossybox came through again this month by providing me products I’m excited to use. Just in time for Fall!

 

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Simple, casual and sexy

Animal Instinct

 

Nothing screams sexy more than black leather with some animal appeal. I’ve seen this amazing combination coming together this Fall and I can’t wait to rock the look. Pair it up with some denim jeans and a red clutch to show a sex, but casual side to your look.

If you want to play it up more, you can switch out the flats with some sexy leopard pumps. Make sure you add a fun animal statement necklace to any black top to give it some extra pop. Try not to over do it either, one piece of leather in your outfit is enough and to many accessories will look gaudy. Remember, simple and casual can be sexy!

My M.A.C Haul - September 2013

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Labor Day usually starts our annual farewell to Summer, and this weekend I was inspired to start shopping for some makeup that will guide me through the perfect Fall transition.

As I shopped through the mall, I found myself drawn to the MAC booth. I have to admit, it’s been a while since I purchased anything from MAC. However, I have always been a fan of their rich long-lasting lipstick and after 20 minutes I was sold on a complete look for my lips and face that would make a perfect combination for the upcoming season.

First, I went with a complete set for my lips. I’ve been using a lot of coral this Summer and for Fall I have been drawn to the deep burgundy trends I’ve seen all over the runway. I’ve already purchased some key items and thought these 3 combos would enhance my look:

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  • first, from their Cremeshine collection, I went with “Partyline”. I was instantly drawn to its deep brick-red color. And after my first application it was love at first site. It went on smoothly with a creamy shine.
  • Next, to give it some glam appeal I choose “Full For You” from their Plushglass collection. It has a minty vanilla smell to it, and it sort of tingled when I applied it. Sheer, but full of sparkle it perfectly accented the lipstick for when I wanted a going out look or I can use it alone for the weekend.
  • Lastly, for the sake of ensuring the lipstick will not bleed outside my lip line I the choose the “Red Enriched” Cremestick liner to bring it all together. It’s a little less rich in color than the lipstick, but blends perfectly and lasted for a good 2 hours. Even through my Starbucks fix.

Finally, to complete my look I choose “Love Thing” from their mineralize blush collection. This is a deep colored blush with a hint of sparkle so when using it I suggest keeping it light when applying it to your face. I love the way it plays off of the lip combination and it’s a great blush to use with dark shadows and dark eyeliners as well.

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So, there it is! My new Fall obsessions from MAC. Let me know your favorites for your transition into the new season!

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Rebel without a cause

Rebel without a cause

What I love about plaid is you can accessorize it anyway you see fit. From bad ass to preppy, it’s a versatile style that many can pull off. This Fall, the punk look is making its way in with fun plaid skirts and cropped sweaters. Pair them up with some edgy booties and fun purse and your look is complete. Add a spiked bracelet or ring for fun!

To complete your look, try some deep berry lipsticks and plum smoky eyes with a black eyeliner accent. Try dark polishes to match like deep reds or go really dark with all black. It’s not a hard trend to follow, many stores are filling up with their own version of items to pull it all together. It’s a fun weekend look, when you’re feeling like a rebel without a cause!

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Fashion Week Looks!

Chic and Polished

Fit and flare dresses are all the new rave, and cobalt blue is the trend for the season. Matched with a sleek gold cuff bracelet, classy heels and a great bag it’s perfect for a day at the office that can easily transform into a happy hour event.

All for under a $100! Who says you have to spend a fortune to be trendy? I actually prefer spending less on trendy items and saving my bigger purchases for classic pieces that are timeless.

Here’s my tip: When shopping online always start at the top designer sites first for some inspiration, then you can easily get a snapshot in your mind for what type of looks are hot and what you are going to set your mind on. Then, choose sites like oldnavy.com or forever21.com to find your less expensive match. There are plenty of other sites out there that are suited for your taste, you just have to take the time to find that perfect match.

Here’s my fashion challenge in honor of my 50th post! Show me your favorite look for under a $100, the winner will receive a $25 Visa Gift Card to use toward their purchase.

All you have to do is:

1. Sign up to follow my blog by 9/6.
2. Send me an email with a picture of your steals for under $100 at guidingbeauty.com.
3. The winner will receive the $25 Visa Gift card.
4. The contest runs 8/13 - 9/6!

This contest is open to US Residents ONLY.

Happy Shopping!!!!

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Prefix Your Hair

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I have a new obsession with where I get my hair styled, and I absolutely adore their products. They literally transform you into a new person every time you are there. When you look around the room, you can se true artist working to create the most stylist looks around. The salon is called Hairstories and each time you leave you truly will want to share your story. That is what inspired my post for you today.

I know most of you don’t live in my area, and if you do then you have to check them out. However, if you don’t you still don’t have to miss out on what they have to offer, and that is great products that really do work on your hair.

I’m in love with the Prefix Conditioning Complex. It’s so light and nourishing and great for any hair type or texture. Just spray liberally before using your usual styling products and you’re good to go. You can even use it on dry hair if you’re in need of some conditioning after a long day. This products really helps de-tangle your hair and give it the vital nourishment it needs that makes for a perfect duo.

The results are amazing, my hair is left nice and light with no greasy residue like most leave in conditioner treatments. Now, it’s not sulfate free and for all of you following my blog you know that I am a firm believer it sticking to products that will not strip your hair color. However, I will make the exception on this particular product. I have all the trust in the world with their name and I just got my hair colored and it’s holding on really well while using this product.

I strongly urge you to check out their site and the products they have to offer. You’ll also enjoy the many “hairstories” made by others who have been there by visiting their blog and seeing how talented this group of people really are.

Some of my other favorites are:

  • Sufix - You should carry this around with you ALL summer. It protects your hair before and after a swim or a day in the sun.
  • Intro - Another leave in conditioner choice that has a heavier constancy. This great to mend split ends.
  • The Plot Thickens - I also LOVE this product. It adds great texture to your hair, you don’t even need hairspray afterward.

 

 

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Refresh With a Cherry Twist

batiste-dry-shampoo-lgnHeart-shaped sweet cherry

I’m always looking for quick and easy way to save time between shampoos. All of us gals can relate that while we love blowing out our locks, it’s not something that we want to do everyday. Not to mention it’s not the best routine to do everyday since it can dry out your hair and remove natural oils that protect it.

I was always a fan of Klorane Extra Gentle Dry Shampoo because it had natural ingredients and was great for my fine hair texture. While I still recommend it, the price is expensive and I found it wasn’t lasting me very long. Although it did the job, I needed to use a lot to get through in between washes.

I started doing more research, and found that Batiste was a raving favorite among beauty lovers and needed to try it out for myself. And, the best part it was very inexpensive and easy to find at any drug store. The results are amazing, and their line comes in a host of different fragrances to lust over.

I was drawn to the Fruity and Cheeky Cherry. This is the newest addition to their line, it has an amazing formula which really holds up to the expensive brands. But, the fragrance is out of this world. It’s a light fruity cherry scent, than instantly freshens my hair and it lingers for most of the day. I also love using it after I blow dry my hair to give it some extra texture and volume., which is great for when you’re doing a updo.

The line carries mini sizes, which is perfect for when you’re on the go and need a quick refresh of a delicious scent to last you even longer. I’m a new fan, and will continue to use this product. I’m excited to try some of their other scents like Blush or Wild. The line even produces options based on your hair color or texture.

Like I mentioned you can find them at any drugstore, but referenced below are some great links to help you start exploring.

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  1. Ulta
  2. Walgreens
  3. Stylebelle
  4. Folica.com

 

I hope you find one that works for you! I would love to hear your experience on any other options within this brand. Happy exploring!

 

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Fall Florals - You Can Make it Work

Fall Floral

Yes the floral print is in for Fall 2013! And, you can totally make it work by combining dark backgrounds with deep opaque colors. To me floral is staple item that you should always have in your closet, I’m very excited that it still being carried through to another season.

You can incorporate it into any look, pair it up a dark pair of floral jeans and a chunky sweater. Or, be prepared to embrace your inner lady with a black silk dress doused in bright colors. From sunglasses to clutches you can easily brighten up the Fall days into any outfit you choose.

The right floral print can be gorgeous, and can make any outfit unique and fun. Check out some of the examples I posted above for inspiration!

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Can I have a envelope please?

Clutches

Clutch bags have taken on a new purpose these days, not only are they used for evening wear woman are now adding them to their day look as well. Thanks to the envelope clutch, we now be stylish and lesson the load as well.

Instead of lugging around a tote, you can easily stuff your essentials into an oversized clutch without breaking your back. They’re big and smart enough to be used for work and can be worked into any stylish outfit because they came in an array of styles.

From Bright hues to tribal patterns these mail carriers new inspiration transcends into a stylish accessory that can be worn around the clock, with no postage required. The other thing I love about envelope purses is that they are much easier to store in your wardrobe, lot’s of bulkier bags need to be stuffed to keep their shape and that takes up a lot of space.

There are so many sizes and colors to choose from and they are available at many price points. Referenced above are a few of my favorite styles that I love incorporating into my personal look. Have fun, and experiment with this trend, it’s definitely worth the investment. Hey, we can all use a fun new way to lighten our load through our busy day and be trendy along the way!

Fashion Workshop! The Denim Jacket

denim jacket

The jean jacket is back my friends! Sure anyone can argue that it was always around, and should be a staple in any woman’s closet. But, lately I have seen it being worn on the cat walk and street in an exciting new way. Trendy girls are now throwing them over cotton or silk dresses, I’ve even seen them layered with biker jackets.

Understand, this is not to be worn for warmth in any way. However, there are some tips for you to follow to invest in the perfect one. Here are some quick and easy how-tos:

1. Check the blend, you want to make sure it has a little stretch to it (at least 2%). It has to be sturdy, but still comfy.

2. Always go for a medium wash. The color is more flattering, and can also be worn with almost anything as a neutral. It also will look better against darker or patterned jeans.

3. Pick a collared style. You can never go wrong with traditional and classic style when trying to incorporate it into your look.

4. Think about fit. You don’t want it to be to boxy, and come off as too big. Look for one that has curves in the waist, which is the most flattering. You should also feel like you can button it without it being to snug.

5. Consider the length. You don’t want it to go past your hips, and the sleeves should end at your wrist. You can always roll them up to create a relaxed look.

6. Look for pockets, but don’t over do it either. Two breast pockets are stylish and functional. However, it doesn’t create too much bulk.

In my opinion denim jackets are more like an accessory, a piece you should always have to add to your wardrobe!

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