Summer Beauty Faves

Even when we’re working during the Summer, all we’re really thinking about is the next chance to play, whether that’s swimming in the sun or going on a trip with the family. And while the minimalistic approach works for any season really, it’s during the Summer that our beauty look really gets pared down to the bare essentials, just so we have a little extra time to play! Here are a few favorites that I've been reaching for this summer.

Maybelline Mascara

YSL Lipgloss 

Skindinavia Makeup Primer

Maybelline Bronzer

NYX Lip Pencil

Essie Nail Polish

Aveeno Lotion

Jo Malone Perfume

There’s a reason why Summer beauty focuses in on bright pops of colors and glowy skin. Eye makeup is easily the most difficult and time-consuming part of doing your makeup, so all we really want and need is a quick swipe of waterproof mascara like the Maybelline MegaPlush Waterproof Mascara. I am still using my 3D Fiber Lash Mascara, but I use this as a first coat to give it a good base.  One thing that I must mention is the Skindinavia Makeup Primer that I got at the beginning of summer and it's been my favorite product all summer.  It is the best primer and my makeup stays perfectly all throughout the day with it.  I either just spray it on before I apply my makeup or apply it directly to one of my brushes before applying. 

The Yves Saint Laurent Baby Doll Kiss and Blush does double duty as a lip and cheek stain with a  fluffy mousse texture that doesn’t feel heavy on the face.  I'm loving all the colors but especially the pink "Rose Frivole"  For nighttime, the NYX Jumbo Lip Pencil is easy but high-impact.  It goes on so smoothly and has great staying power.

I've been very careful about my sun exposure lately so I don't have a real tan and rely on my bronzers and self tanners for a glow.  Maybelline’s Master Hi-Light adds dimension to the face with a mixture of pinky tan tones for the kind of color that looks like you’ve been vacationing in Cabo, but of course never without generously applying this Aveeno Lotion.

The yummy but sophisticated Jo Malone Grapefruit Cologne and Essie Nail Polish in Ruffles and Feathers on the toes are the perfect finishing touches for a fun Summer vibe.

What beauty products are a must in your Summer bag?

Summer Styles

One thing to love about Summer style is the seemingly endless variety of cute trends to experiment with. Summer hats, for instance, are such a fun and functional way to show your personal style in an outfit.

Flowy maxi dresses are the best for staying cool while looking modest. Love all the fun color combinations that you can play with when the main piece in the outfit is classic black.  I love this maxi dress because it has sleeves! 

hat |  dress | lipstick | nail polish | sandals | cuff

Just because you’re wearing boyfriend jeans doesn’t mean you can’t be trés chic! A cool tee and comfortable yet classy sandals work nicely with edgy greyish-nude nails and a berry lip.

 

 tee | jeans | hat | sandals | nail polish | lipcolor  

{Summer Week} The Skort...

Banana tank- J.Crew | skort- Zara (similar)  | denim jacket- H&M | neon pumps- Two Lips | glitter clutch- Kate Spade | necklace- Zara (similar) | bracelet- Joe Fresh | watch- Michael Kors

{Summer Week} The Nails...

{ SCRATCH Watermelon nail wraps, $12 }

{ Revlon "Minted" nail polish, $5.99 }

{ Joe Fresh "Amethyst" nail polish, $4 }

{ American Apparel "T-Shirt" nail polish, $6 }

{ American Apparel "Parakeet" nail polish, $6 }

{ Urban Outfitters "Hot Tub" nail polish, $5 }

It's no secret I love nail polish, and even if you spent three seconds on my Instagram, you would know that I have a serious sweet tooth as well... Luckily for me the two go together like nobody's business, and I certainly can't complain about having edible props for a change!

Above are my favourite shades/wraps for summer in the digit-department — And believe me when I tell you it was nearly impossible to narrow it down to just six. From sizzling shades of hot pink and neon green, to softer pallets brimming with mints and lilacs, I'm always down for a fun summer mani... Oh the possibilities.

So tell me friends, what are your favourite shades for summer? Spill! xx

{Summer Week} The Bag...

Shirt- Topshop | polka dot jeans- Forever 21 | bag- DVF | necklace- J.Crew | bracelets- Forever 21, H&M + Winners

When it comes to summer attire, it doesn't get much better than pops of colour and playful motifs in the form of accessories. This bag pretty much epitomizes summer styling in my mind, what with its vibrant hue and cheeky embellishment... Just throw in some bright baubles and a great printed jean, and you've got yourself all the makings for a sweet, late summer outfit. 

 

{Summer Week} The Sun Dress...

 
Who's ready for another theme week? Since I'm always talking about how I can't wait for fall, I figured I should stop and enjoy summer while I still can, so voila! A new theme week was born. First up, the sun dress. All you need are some stripes, pastels and cute cutout detailing, and you've got yourselves the all the makings of a summertime staple... Too bad this is the first time I've worn this dress since buying it a month ago, but I digress — As is the case with theme weeks, better late than never, right?

I've got a lot of fun, summer-fueled posts lined up for you guys this week, so be sure to check back every day to see what's in store... Happy Monday! xx

Dress- Forever 21 (on sale) | sandals- Tahari (old; similar here) | necklace- J.Crew Factory

Beat the Heat!

The weather is definitely heating up, and sometimes it’s hard to stay cute when all you want to do is jump in a pool! I’m grateful we’re not experiencing any heat waves in Seattle, but I do know what it feels like to be in humid weather! I’ve found that the best way to dress for the heat, is to throw on easy one-piece outfits. Whether that’s a dress, romper, or jumpsuit – you’ll still look cute, but with minimal effort!

 

Topshop Daisy Lace Tunic Dress You know I’m a fan of both lace and neon. I also like how the model paired it with a cute blue sandal! 
Banana Republic Drawstring Halter Dress  Perfect little dress in a bright color. You could throw this on with sandals and simple accessories, and you’re good to go.
Club Monaco Lonlee Dress  Gorgeous print! This dress has lots of little details, like the pockets and the collar that make it a great find.
Forever 21 Pineapple Print Romper Such a cute fun print for the summer!

Pixie Market Blue Crush Denim Dress  How cute is this little denim dress? Love the ruffle effect on the sleeves. It’s also a great dress to accessorize and make your own!
Asos Off Shoulder Summer Dress Showing a little shoulder is so sexy. Such a fun and flirty dress!
Asos Skater Dress in Graphic Bird  Such an easy silhouette, with a great pattern.  I love the bird print, I actually own three tops with the same print! Throw this on with heels, sandals, or boots to easily dress it up or down.
Forever 21 Floral Chambray RomperLooks super comfortable. Love the cut-out in the back and the pockets!

Anthropologie Market Day Stripes Maxi  Loving maxis for summer. They’re so versatile and easy, with some drama. All three colors are great!
Anthropologie Colorblocked Shift  Neutral dresses are a closet staple, and this color-blocked version is super pretty. Also a work-appropriate dress!

{Feature} The Tell-Tale Heart...

There's nothing better than a good old photo adventure, even if it includes mud and more mosquito bites (in highly undesirable places) than I care to count. Luckily I have nice friends who are willing to put up with such things for the sake of getting the shot, including trudging through waist-high grass and coaxing me onto old, abandoned tractors (just for kicks) even when I'm being a total priss about it... What can I say, some people just belong in cities.

Happy weekending, friendlies, and thanks for reading! xx

Photos by Jerry Aulenbach

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Outfit details: top- Malorie Urbanovitch; pleated skirt- thrifted; floral crown- Heirloom Vintage; necklaces- Pamela Love + Pyrrha; ring- vintage; beaded bracelet- H&M

{Style} Summer Lovin...

Outfit details: striped blouse- Forever 21; pleated maxi- H&M; nude wedges- Pour la Victoire; clutch- J.Crew; panama hat- H&M; sunnies- Forever 21; ring- Michael Kors; necklace- H&M

{Shopping Guide} Beachwear...

Nothing says summer quite like a trip to the beach, or better yet, some warm, tropical vacation where a cute bathing suit (and sunscreen!) is all you need. Nautical stripes, bold colours and strappy sandals make for the perfect summer uniform, so if you're in the market for some new duds this season, here's a roundup of a few items in particular that I'm coveting... Let the shopping begin!

1. Seaview Tie Front Halter Maillout by SeaFolly, $161

2. Pool Towel by SeaFolly, $53

3. Goddess Bandeau Bikini by SeaFolly, $92

4. Mali Ankle-Wrap Sandal by Miz Mooz, $89.95

5. Stripe Tote by SeaFolly, $51

6. Maui Ankle-Strap Sandal by Minnetonka, $49.95

7. Women's Jury Wedge Sandal by Dolce Vita, $84.95 

What pieces are you guys craving for summer? I wanna know! xx

Summer Sandals -- All under $100

Although it’s not exactly warm in Seattle yet, I’m looking forward to the warmer months so that I can break out the sandals! Flat sandals are must during the summer, and especially for my pregnancy.  I’ve found some great options, all for under $100!

 

1. Joe’s ‘Kody’ Sandal - Love that this sandal mixes textures. It’s the perfect neutral sandal to wear every day and with everything!
2. Nasty Gal Zealand Sandal - Strappy, gold hardware and neon? Amazing combination. And if you’re not into the neon color, it comes in black and gold too!
3.  Loft Vierra Gladiator Sandals - These are a great neutral sandal, but with a little edge. Plus, these (and everything else) at the Loft are currently 40% off


1. Zara – Leather Thong Sandals You can’t go wrong with a thong sandal, and I love this fuchsia color!
2. Zara – Silk Satin Ankle Strap Sandals The silk satin gives these a luxe look, and you really can’t beat the price!
3. Enzo Angiolini ‘Katira’ SandalI love the woven detail on the back of this sandal. The two color options are great also!
4. Isaac Mizrahi Bree Sandal This one is a tad (just $10!) over my $100 budget but... so cute I had to include.


1. Anthropologie Flickerfly Sandals Metallics are a great take on neutrals, and I love these. The embellishments on the back make them so special!  I also love how the model wears it with her casual cool outfit and statement necklace
2. Steve Madden ‘Torment’ Sandal Looking for a glamorous flat sandal? These are it. Definitely an eye-catcher.
3. Zara Flat Sandals with Strass  These are one of my favorites. They’re girly and glamorous!