Marbled Stone Nails

Hey guys! I wanted to share this super cool nail art with you all in case you wanted to try out a new look. I followed a YouTube tutorial that you can check out {here} and I love the way it turned out. I changed the colors up a little bit but I really do think that it looks like a turquoise stone on your nails. It is so perfect for summer and you'll have tons of people asking you how you did your nails.

I hope you liked my spin on this awesome nail look. Although it can be time consuming, the end result is so worth it. And you could definitely change this to any color combo and create the illusion of different stones. Let me know if you try it out and if there are any other cool nail techniques or looks I should try out!

xx Meghan

Summer Proof Makeup

The worst thing about summer is coming home from a super fun day running around in the sun, taking a look in the mirror and seeing your makeup smudged under your eyes. Then you are left wondering how long it was there and if anyone else thought you look looked like a rogue raccoon. In order to prevent this from ever happening, you need to summer proof your makeup!

Here are some of my favorite summer-proof products, however I wouldn't recommend going for a swim with any of them on. In my experience something can be as waterproof as can be but it'll still smudge on me, so I'd opt for no makeup when swimming. These products are great though if you are going to be out in the sun and you don't want everything to melt off.

1. Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr Eyeshadow: These are great because they are so quick to apply and won't crease on you eyelids. they come in tons of great summer-y shades too!
2. Covergirl BB Cream: This product offers light coverage, hydration, and sun protection. You can't ask for much more in a face product during the summer time. It's super easy to reapply throughout the day because of it's sheer finish and will give you a health glow without looking like you caked on the makeup.
3. Rimmel Scandaleyes Shadow Stick: I use these as eye liner on my upper lash line and tight line. The are smudge proof and last all day, I love using the fun shades to add a pop of color to my look.
4. Maybelline Baby Lips: These chap sticks are perfect for the summer. Some offer light washes of colors and SPF which is perfect when you are out in the sun.
5. Maybelline Falsies Waterproof: I know I said waterproof doesn't work when swimming for me, but it definitely helps my mascara for smudging onto my skin. Falsies is one of my favorites too!
6. Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush: Some cream blushes I find to be too oily, but these blushes have such a light airy texture I don't feel like they are heavy on my skin.

What are your favorite summer proof makeup products? Share them below in the comments!

xx Meghan

Nail Tutorial (on YouTube!)

Hey guys! I was playing around with some stuff today and I decided to make a nail tutorial and upload it on YouTube. I really like making videos and it was really fun to put this one together. I thought that it also would be easier for you guys to follow along to, more so than a few pictures. Please comment, like and subscribe if you like the video and want to see more! And remember to watch in HD for best quality!

These nails were inspired by an Instagram post I saw on Chi Nail Bar's page and I tried to re-create the look. Obviously they are not nearly as professional as the real thing, but I tried to make it simple to follow along to and also use the things that I had. I hope you all enjoy it and try it out!

xx Meghan

Post Christmas Cheer

Hi guys! Sorry again for a prolonged hiatus. I have just gotten so busy that my blog had to go on the back burner for a while. I hope to get back in the swing of things soon and I thank everyone that still checks out my blog for their continued support! I thought I would just share some images of a few little beauty products I got for Christmas/recently. I was playing around with my sister's camera and then I thought: "Why not post this?" I got some MAC products as a little present to myself with a gift card that I have had for a while, and this also marks the first MAC lip product I have owned! I found a cute little mini sized set of Benefit products at Ulta which my mom kindly stuffed in my stocking. I still haven't been able to bring myself to buy anything full sized from Benefit yet, despite my love affair with all of their products. I also picked up one of the Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr Eyeshadows from the new metallic collection which I am very excited about. I use one out of my other two Color Tattoos almost every day!

More pictures after the jump:

Makeup Bag Essentials

I am not someone who likes to bring a full load of makeup to school but rather stick to the things that'll be good to have around in case I smudge my eye makeup or forget to use something in the morning. If you want to bring more makeup related products I'd definitely recommend things that can be multi purposeful. Choose a lipstick that isn't only a great shade for you lips but also could double as cream blush. Things that have dual purposes will save you space in your makeup bag and you will have less things to worry about bringing.

Personal hygiene is one of the most important things to keep up. However, everyone has had that one day that they are running late and forgot to put on deodorant or brush their teeth. Keep miniature sizes of those products so you will never have to worry. I also would have to say if you can find a miniature size of anything, get it, especially for something that needs to be portable like your makeup bag. Another thing that is helpful to stay feeling refreshed at school are oil absorbing sheets. After gym class or even if you just have oily skin, these sheets will remove excess oils without ruining your makeup.

It can be hard to feel nice when you are having a bag hair day. Keep extra hair ties and bobby pins in your bag just in case your locks won't cooperate. I also like to have these sorts of things just for when I want my hair out of my face. I usually put my hair up when I am taking a test or you may need to put in back in science class.

For actual makeup, I keep it pretty low key. The main things I have in my makeup bag are lip products. I like to keep a lip balm, gloss, and some sort of stain or tint. The three things shown in the picture are staples in my makeup bag. It is also super easy to add a little bit of makeup to your lips and you will look super polished after.

About at the mid day point at school I feel like my skin looks a bit tired and less glowy than it did in the morning. This is why I prefer to keep a matte bronzer in my makeup bag, but you could totally switch this up for a light, translucent powder. You can use the applicator, if it comes with one, or just a miniature sized face brush or kabuki. I don't wear pencil eyeliner too much but for some reason I think it is a useful thing to keep in your makeup bag for touch ups or if you decide you want to amp up your eye look. Mascara is definitely a number one must have! Keeping a mini sized bottle in your purse can be a life saver in case you forgot to apply it in the morning or just need another coat.

These are all the things I keep in my makeup bag! Let me know your must haves for yours in the comments. If there are any other Back to School types posts you would like to see let me know what those are also.

xx Meghan

Little Wishes

1. Pyramid Bracelets: I have suddenly become obsessed with these little treasures for stacking and dressing up my arm parties. As seen in this gorgeous picture, the gorgeous white and gold bracelet on the left adds a playful but classy look to the mix. Forever 21 has a great selection of on-trend bracelets and for such a low price I am dying to get over to the mall so I can stock up!

2. Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains: I am a sucker for cute packaging and colors so when I saw these I was in for it. For such a long time now I have loved the concept of the Clinique Chubby Stick but I never got around to purchasing one. So when these came out I couldn't wait to  try out a cheaper alternative. Again, the packaging is super cute and great for quick pops of color throughout the day. I wanted my first one to be one that would be great as a daily staple so I got the shade Honey (third over from the left in the picture). I really like it and now I want to get some more.

3. Rhinestone Chain: I found myself wanting to be very crafty lately. I am always frustrated though because I never have all the supplies I need. My goal within the next few weeks is to track down some rhinestone chain. I scavenged through the entire jewelry section of my Michael's for some and it was nowhere to be found. I am thinking about just ordering some cheap of eBay unless someone can locate this little guy in my craft store for me. I want to do some cool DIYs and what project doesn't need a little sparkle!

These are just a few things I have been lusting over this week. Was there something you guys couldn't get off your mind? And, honestly, if someone finds me some rhinestone chain I will love you forever!! Anyways, hope your weekend is off the a great start. Don't forget to check out my last post which was a super cool DIY for Floral Sunglasses!

XOXO Meghan

Images {here, here, & here}

Makeup for Glasses

Glasses aren't always the cutest accessories ever, but sometimes it can be fun to change up your look. I have pretty terrible eyesight and am an avid contact lens wearer, but sometimes I revert back to my big, black frames. I find though, that not all my everyday makeup looks always work when I wear my glasses. If anyone else seems to be facing this problem as well I have put together this look and also some goods tips and tricks.

Basically the goal while doing makeup for glasses is the make your eyes pop even while they are hidden behind your frames. To do this you want to create the illusion of your eyes being bigger than they are. To do this you want some shimmer but also matte colors to define your eyes. I have listed the exact products I used to create this look but have also tried to describe them so you can look in your own collection for things similar! Let's get started:

Burberry Nails

Ever wanted to create a super cute and preppy nail look? Possibly inspired by Burberry? Well here is the perfect tutorial to teach your how to create the iconic pattern on your finger tips in minutes! Step by step pictures and instructions are included as well as a list on products used. So let's get started!

Spring Things: Beauty

After having Spring Break, I always feel so ready to jump into all the latest trends! Some of my favorite beauty trends for spring are bright cheeks, pastel nails, defined lashes, and glowy skin. I took some pics of my own personal favorite beauty products I will be all over this spring. Let me know what you favorite spring trends and products are in the comments! I love to hear from you guys and try out new products so definitely share what you love. I'm working on another post for my spring fashion picks that should be up soon so look out for that, see you soon!

{From L-R: China Glaze Pink Voltage, Essie Haute as Hello, Revlon Charming, OPI Mod About You, China Glaze Flip Flop Fantasy, Essie Mint Candy Apple}

{Top L-R: MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner in Gentle Coral, NYX Mosaic Powder Blush in Love, Maybelline 25hr Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze, Garnier Skin Renew BB Cream

Bottom: Essence Get BIG! Lashes Mascara, ELF Liquid Eyeliner in Copper}

XOXO Meghan

Spring Foundation Routine

{CoverGirl Aqua Smoothers Tinted Moisturizer, N.Y.C. Green Cover Stick, Maybelline Fit Me Concealer, MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural, N.Y.C. Matte Bronzer in Sunny, Sonia Kashuk Rosey Creme Blush, Neutrogena Healthy Skin Custom Glow Blush and Bronzer in Rosy}

As it begins to warm up outside, I try to go for a fresh and light face of makeup. These are my everyday essentials and staples. And most of these things I actually use all year round, but they are very fitting for the warmer months. And contrary to the title, I don't use a foudation (I feel like foundations don't work very well with my skin texture) but I do use a tinted moisturizer. This keep my face looking healthy and natural and also helps to keep off minor dryness that I get from acne medications. And to any blemishes I like to start off with a green concealer to cancel out redness and then top it off with a creamy, skin toned one. I have fallen in love with the Maybelline Fit Me concealer! It blends so nicely into your skin and looks so natural. I top all that off with some MSFN and a big kabuki brush. 

Next I'll add some bronzer to my face, I normally use a matte one but if I am going out or something I like to add a little shimmer. Sometimes I'll for just one formulation of blush but I usually use both. I'll start with my cream blush and pat that onto the apples of my cheeks and then top it off with a light dusting of a powder blush.To finish off, I'll give everything a final blending with my bronzer brush!

What are your favorite fave products for the Spring/Summer months! Let me know down in the comments!

XOXO Meghan

You are Fashion, but You are not Cancer

GUEST POST

BY JACKIE CLARK

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It is always important for women to feel that they are beautiful. More importantly than that, they should hear it. I know how good I feel when I have on a cute outfit or feel stylish. When going through a hard time, it is easy to loose oneself, especially if you feel you don't look your best. Fashion is a great way to be creative and express individuality, while boosting self-confidence. This article that Jackie wrote for me to feature on my blog is really inspiring and I am so glad I got the opportunity to share it with you all!

You are Fashion, But You are Not Cancer

By: Jackie Clark 

Women with active cancer do not have to look in the mirror and feel unattractive. There is a temptation to do this because a woman with cancer uses so much of her mental and physical energy in battling her disease. But, again, she can still look attractive. Maybe this sounds superficial, but it isn't.  How a woman feels about herself is more than being able to attract the opposite sex or looking professional and well fitted at work. The way a woman feels about herself affects her health, as well. Of course, being a "fashion plate" is not a cure for cancer, but it is a pick-me-up, for sure. And as any woman undergoing cancer treatment knows, how she feels about herself affects her self-esteem and feelings of being in control. Cancer feels uncontrollable, as does so much of life in general. But any woman can control her overall "look." She can wear a color-coordinated ensemble and feel better about herself right off the bat. She doesn't have to spend her waking hours running around in a silly hat. She can put on a "Locks-of-Love" wig and look downright attractive. She can wear a sharp, navy blazer over a pair of blue jeans and a white shell. She can complement this outfit with a pair of thin, blue-and-white trouser socks and a pair of low-healed red pumps. She can top it off by tying a red scarf around her collar. Looks count -- especially for the woman with cancer. It is one of the only aspects of herself that she has more than a modicum of control over. Of course, when she is enduring the aftereffects of chemotherapy, she can look as raggedy as she feels. She is absolutely entitled to that. But afterwards, she can pull together her wardrobe and look like a million bucks. One of the more recently publicized cancers is mesothelioma. If a woman doesn't smoke, her chances of recovery are greater. She can stand tall and fight it. If she is a smoker, she can take back her power and greatly improve her prognosis by quitting smoking. A support group will help her considerably, and so will the medications her doctor may give her to help take away her cravings. Part of not surrendering to a serious illness like cancer is the conscious decision for a woman to remain who she is. She is not cancer. She is Adele or Amy or Marilyn or Joanne. She can get up in the morning and take a brisk shower, put on her make-up and fix her hair or put on her wig. Then she can put on a pretty dress, nylons and a pair of her favorite heels.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Mousse Blush

If you're a blush addict like I am, you may have already seen these in stores or even cleared out the entire display! A while ago Maybelline came out with their 'Dream' line (I suppose you could call it that), and as sort of a spin off they have now created the Dream Bouncy Blushes. I saw these and I had to get one! They come in a variety of really beautiful colors and when they are called "bouncy" it is because they are bouncy. When you put your finger one the blush it kind of puff back up if you press down, it's really cool! 

Besides that, and probably the more important part, they look super natural on your skin. They aren't you normal cream blush, but they definitely aren't a powder. If you have tried Maybelline's Dream Mousse blushes, they are more similar to that just not as airy and whipped. The color pigmentation is really good in my opinion. I have three shades: Plum Wine, Candy Coral, and Hot Tomale. My favorite right now is Plum Wine, but I think I will really love the other two shades for summer! 

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Next time you see these maybe you'll decide to try them out! I know I want to get them all! Have you tried them? What do you think? Let me know in the comments below!

XOXO Meghan

Skin Saver

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Suffer from super dry skin? Lately I have been trying out new skincare products and they've started giving my normally oily skin dry patches! Cold weather may also be causing your skin to dry out, which is why it is even more important to moisturize your skin in these cold months. My secret weapon to combating dry skin is...Jojoba Oil!

Pronounced hoh-hoh-bah, this natural oil is great for your skin and hair. It mimics human sebum, or your natural body (especially face) oils, which is why it works so well. It tricks your skin into believing it has produced enough oils (which is good for people with oily skin) while also adding back a lot of moisture (for those dry skinned girls!). Different uses for jojoba oil are: moisturizer, makeup remover, conditioner and massaging. Some people also claim it is very helpful in clearing up acne. Personally, I don't find that it necessarily clears my acne, but it doesn't cause any new breakouts for me.

The jojoba oil I use is the 100% Pure Jojoba Oil from Trader Joe's. I don't recall the exact price but I believe it was under ten dollars. I will add about three drops to my moisturizer for all over moisture or put some on a cotton ball to focus on certain patches.

I definitely recommend this to all skin types to try out. Let me know your favorite natural remedies in the comments!

XOXO M

Clean Sweep

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Washing your brushes is a very important step in not only makeup sanitation but also the cleanliness of your skin and face. Old makeup that is sitting in the fibers of your brushes can lead to bacteria and other icky stuff, and it may even be a contributing factor to breakouts and acne. Even if that is not what causes your breakouts, it is still necessary to wash your brushes. Everyday would be the best, but we all know that isn't practical. Try to clean your brushes at least once a week. I know that I struggle to do even that, but if you get in the habit it wont be that much of a chore. Continue reading for tips and the steps to take when cleaning your makeup brushes.

Masque Yourself

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There are two things that come to mind when I think of a face mask. First off, the staple cucumber on the eyes looks and secondly, this one scene from That's So Raven when she runs in with a bright green mask on her face. Haha, is that weird or what?! I love to use masks, for their beneficial factors and also the fun feeling of painting your face and looking pretty funny! Here's a post on some face masks that I really like and would recommend!

Tiffany Box Nails

The classic Tiffany & Co. box. The signature robin's egg blue, tied together with a pristine white bow... Today, you'll learn how to carry to fabulous, staple Tiffany look with you at all times. With Tiffany box nails! This simple design adds some glamour to a plain mani, but does require a steady hand!

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

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On the hunt for a good, new foundation? Well, look no further! Lately I have been loving the Maybelline Fit Me Foundation. I have always been on the fence with liquid foundations, due to my fear of cake-y makeup, however I don't think my skin has ever looked any better with makeup on than when I use this. It gives your face a sheen, which some people dislike (mainly the oily skinned girls out there), however I have moderately oily skin, and I have found that the more moisturized my skin is, the better this foundation looks (I think I may do a little skincare type post too, b/c when I say moisturized, I am not just talking about a normal face lotion. I have a little, semi-secret trick! Let me know what you think!) . Not to say that this isn't for girls with dry skin, I would not really know that, it's just something I've noticed. Now to the other pros and cons...

Nailed It!

I just got four new nail polishes from the store this evening. Just want to do a quick post on them because they are literally amazing. Well, I mean, from the one I've tried. All four are from Revlon, to which I also have to add: I love the packaging of their nail polish, it just looks so nice for a drugstore brand!

I used the one in the bottom right, Gold Coin. It's gorgeous! It's not too gold though, which I like. It almost has a little green and silver, or as Rachel Zoe would say, "Gilver," which make this polish really unique. And, just when you thought it couldn't get any better, it is so opaque, I only used one coat! This stuff is great and I can't wait to try the others! I totally recommend these!

Top (Left-Right): Pure Pearl, All Fired Up

Bottom (Left-Right): Copper Penny, Gold Coin

Winter Makeup Trends

1. Smokey Eyes + Dark Lips: Normally, when doing a dark lip or a harsh eyeshadow look, we opt for a more natural version of it's opposite. However, mixing the two can create a sultry and smokey look as long as you do both in complementary ways. Pick colors that can play off each other or are in the same color family. As in the first picture, the red-violet lips hint at a gorgeous jewel tone that is also used in the bronze eyes.

2. Eyeliner: With all the different options for eyeliner out there, this trend has endless possibilities. This look was seen with a more bare face or a light pink flush. You could also go towards the more frosty colors. My personal favorite is winged liner because I feel that it suits me the best. Play around and try to find your favorite formulation and style of eyeliner for this season!

3. Natural Makeup: However weird this may sound for winter, natural makeup really dominated much of the runway. Keep your face makeup light and use eyeshadow sparingly. Add some bold lashes and maybe a frosty white in the inner corner and you'll be looking as fresh as the first snow of the season.

4. Bold Brows: No matter how many times you've heard it before, brows really do frame your face. If you are new to brow shaping and grooming. I recommend going with your natural shape this can be found by holding one of your makeup brushes vertically against you nose, it should line up with the beginning of your eyebrow. From the outermost corner of your nostril, hold the brush at an angle to is intersects your pupil if you were to be looking straight forward, and that should be where your arch is. Lastly, going again from the corner of your nostril, line up the brush with the outer corner of your eye, and that is where your brow should end. Speaking of the end of your brow, another thing to try is elongating your brows, or going further than your natural end if you are feeling extra bold.