Fall is Beautiful

Love that chill in the air? Want to curl up with your hunny and a PSL? Do you use the Christmas decorations at Phipps as an *excuse* for a Tory Burch shopping spree?

Yeah, me too. Fall is here and I am SO excited!

Like, I want to actually rake leaves and bale hay kind .. that kind of excited.

And the season change inspired some change in me and now I'm back to blogging. I hope you're as thrilled as I am!

Lately, I've been on a beauty binge. In my quest to become a VIB Rouge member at Sephora I sort of went overboard and bought literally everything.

I'd thought I'd quickly share my favorite products as of late:

1. YSL Babydoll Mascara

I'm always in search of a great mascara. Diorshow just doesn't do it for me. I know, I know.

Babydoll is the only YSL mascara I've tried, but I see no reason to tread further. I've found a safe haven in this formula.

photo: thefitgirlsdish.com

It lengthens and separates lashes like nothing I've ever tried before.  It is VERY build-able (I do 3 coats). Some others are great, (Givenchy, Benefit They're Real and Bobbi Brown Lengthening come to mind), but Babydoll makes my lashes look like bombshell lashes.

And um, who doesn't want to look like a bombshell? 

Try it out, it'll make more than your lashes flutter. Hearts beware.

YSL Babydoll Mascara at Sephora

2. Urban Decay Naked Palette

After all the hype I've heard about this product, I gave in and bought it. You know, anything for those Sephora points.

I thought about it for some time and had previously decided it wasn't worth the money ...

I couldn't have been more wrong.

It's worth the price and then some.

photo: thebellebeautyblog.blogspot.com

First, the color payoff is HUGE. These shadows are heavily pigmented and long-lasting. I'm not kidding. Your shadow will be there after your two glasses of chardonnay have come and gone.

Second, the colors are GORGEOUS and I believe would work for any skin-tone variation. 

Third, you can create myriad looks with this thing. Anything from a day look to a sexy smokey eye is possible with this palette. 

Fourth, when you buy the palette at Sephora, a eyeshadow primer comes with it ... that primer is my life. It's everything.

Fifth, it's FANTASTIC for travel. Throw this in the bag, you're good to go. No little eyeshadows pinging around the makeup bag in danger of breaking and getting everywhere.

Urban Decay Naked Palette at Sephora

3. Guerlain Lingerie de Peau Invisible Skin Foundation

My story with Guerlain products starts with a trip to Paris in 2007. I went to the Guerlain flagpship on the Champs Elysees and learned about the brand and how darn fabulous it really is.

butterboom.com

When I discovered that Guerlain had foundation I knew I had to try it. It was time for a new foundation and I read reviews for Lingerie de Peau. 

I can't say enough good things about this foundation. If you're like me and you enjoy coverage that evens your skintone and STAYS PUT, then you should try this. The coverage is medium-full and is build-able.

I use 1 or 2 pumps each application depending on what look I'm going for or the weather conditions that day. It's not even half-way empty and I've had this for about 3 weeks. 

This foundation is wonderful for people with dry skin (like me) because it's hydrating and silky. I'd say it's very similar to the Laura Mercier silk foundation, but more liquid-like in texture, making it easier to blend. 

I'm obsessed with this foundation, it's absolutely beautiful and leaves a seamless finish. It disguises EVERYTHING. It really does. 

I've also noticed it doesn't transfer onto clothes, which is a plus for me. I can't tell you how many white oxford shirts I've ruined because of foundation.

Guerlain Lingerie de Peau Foundation at Sephora

4. Benefit Hoola Bronzer

As an Italian, the need to look tan and bronzed is eerily similar to my need to eat and drink water to survive. 

I've tried all the bronzers it seems. MAC, Laura Mercier, Too Faced, Bobbi Brown, Chanel.

Some are good, some make me look muddy. It depends.

photo: amodelrecommends.com

Enter Benefit's Hoola Bronzer. This bronzer is perfection. It's great for bronzing or for contouring. It's highly blendable and is not muddy or harsh. It works for every skintone.

The packaging is cute. It comes with a brush.

What more could you want?

Join me, all bronzed and beautiful, at my next luau courtesy of Benefit.

Benefit Hoola Bronzer at Sephora

5. YSL Rouge Volutpe Shine

I've only recently ventured into the world of lipstick. I look best  feel the most comfortable in neutrals (which aren't as exciting as bright red)  and I tend to forget to apply lip products so lipstick hasn't always been my game.

photo: hudabeauty.com

That was the case until I met YSL lip products, particularly these lipsticks.

They are expensive, I will grant you that. But they are beautiful.

The packaging is so beautiful I feel like a Hollywood starlet from the 50's when I apply it.

It's like I was Sabrina the chauffer's daughter and then I apply this and I'm Sabrina dancing at the Larabee mansion a la Audrey Hepburn. I'm saying this stuff is transformational.

Like a good pair of Louboutins.

To be honest, I bought it for the packaging but the colors are very pretty and stay put all day long.

YSL Rouge Volupte Shine at Sephora

I can't wait to share more posts and happenings to come on the blog (and other writing prospects to come as well).

Stay beautiful this fall!! xx

B

July Favorites!

One of the finer things about living in Georgia is the fact that we experience all four seasons.

And we southern gals know good and well that the red clay we walk on isn't the only thing baking in that hot sun come summertime - our skin and hair suffer too.

With the hot rays stripping away nutrients, it's so important to replenish your body. And it takes a little extra love and care to keep our locks finely coiffed (and sufficiently teased) and our skin nice and dewy.

Here are some of my favorite things that have helped fight the humidity and have quenched my very dry skin and thick (yet fine) hair.

Mario Badescu Cucumber Cleansing Lotion

photo:  bluemercury.com

This product can work for every skin type. It feels more like a tonic or astringent, really. Initially I thought it would only work for oily or normal skin types but I have extremely dry skin and this has not caused any problems as far as I can tell.

I use this product morning and evening after cleansing with my normal cleanser. It deep cleans pores and truly leaves skin refreshed. Because I have dry skin, I follow up with a heavy-handed amount of moisturizer or cream to replenish my skin's ph-levels and to add moisture for elasticity.

I have really enjoyed this over the summer because the makeup/residue/suntan lotion/sweat that clogs our pores during our jaunts outdoors is extremely difficult to remedy. This stuff does wonders for deep cleaning. Plus, you feel so so very fresh after application. I use a cotton square.  The price is right, too.

Available at Nordstrom: Mario Badescu Cucumber Cleansing Lotion, $15


Naturopathica Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream

photo: natureofbeauty.com

Natural calendula comes from the calendula flower and has amazing anti-inflammatory properties that are great for treating skin irritations, particularly itchy skin or rashes or sunburns.

Calendula is fantastic for dry skin or sun-damaged skin because of its healing properties that make skin supple and moisturized. Calendula oil is great for under the eye skin to combat premature aging.

I discovered this stuff a little over a year ago and can personally attest to a litany of skin issues it has corrected. It's single-handedly the most effective thing I've ever used.

The spa I like to go to sells this locally. It's pricey but I rely on it because it works.

Available at Natural Body Spa or Naturopathica Holistic Health

Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream

photo: shop.nordstrom.com

There's a reason this cream is on Bobbi's "Greatest Hits" list. I'm starting to use this cream as a primer to my foundation in the morning. At night, I use calendula, but this is FANTASTIC to keep your skin hydrated under foundation all day long.

Having a great primer on your skin helps your skin absorb the foundation and makes it last longer. Highly recommend.

Available at Bobbi Brown





Jamison Shaw Vita Plexx

Another important item to have in your bag is a great de-tangler. This one is from my hairdresser's at Jamison Shaw in Buckhead. Vita Plexx is conditioning, has SPF to help prevent color fade and sun damage and works wonders after the pool.

Available in store or at Jamison Shaw Online.

Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask

photo: oteenvogue.com

This mask is absolutely phenomenal. It hydrates hair, seals cuticles and restores shine.

Use when you're cleaning, studying, responding to emails before bed, or sleep with in it in your hair overnight with a cap on. I love this stuff and use it once a week.

Available at moroccanoil.com


Trish McEvoy Beauty Balm "BB" Cream

I've raved about Trish products before, especially this one in particular. The only unfortunate thing about this product is the price. $90 is a step price to spend on a tinted beauty balm.

Trish's products are formulated with the help of her dermatologist husband and has many amazing ingredients for your skin, but the SPF content along with the amazing coverage is what makes me buy this.

I pop this on my face to even out my skin tone and provide coverage and protection! in the sun where I'd normally forego makeup. It's long-lasting and makes skin look dewy.

This bottle lasts FOREVER. One pump is really all you need for a full face of moisturizing foundation. It just makes me feel prettier too when I'm in the sand or by the pool. It's not cute to thane a cute bikini but your face isn't also done up (just a little).

Available at Woo Cosmetics in Buckhead or Nordstrom

Olive Oil

photo: joyandsunshine blog

Personally, I prefer my olive oil on a nice little plate of pasta but you can't always get what you want.

Instead, I more frequently use olive oil on my body. I mix it with organic brown sugar for a face and body scrub that is simply divine.

I also rub it on my cuticles for conditioning. I mix it in my with hair conditioner (a very little bit will do) for some shine.

Live and love olive oil.

Available at Whole Foods or any market.


Banana Boat Protect and Hydrate Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30

You know what is REALLY gross? Mineral Oil.

That's the stuff mechanics use ... yes like cars and engines and grease and well, mineral oil.

It's also in MANY beauty products, especially tanning oil and sunscreen.

Banana Boat is all I will use because this particular formula has a moisturizer in it and does not contain that icky mineral oil. I don't like tanning oils. For one, they are HORRIBLE for your skin. The spray ones mostly don't even touch your skin because mist blows with the sea breeze.

All you need for that added tan acceleration is cocoa butter over your sunscreen.

I love this stuff, hopefully you will give it a try. I buy mine at Ulta.


Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater

photo: bluemercury 

Ever heard of a setting spray? This product is a fantastic one.

After applying makeup (your whole face of makeup) simply spray this on to set the makeup and seal it to make it last longer.

I also spray this on after the beach or pool and just about every day, midday for a pick me up. You wouldn't believe how thirsty your skin is midday because of the stress and the makeup and the dry air in the office. You can even spray it on your hair.

Available at Nordstrom



Raw Aloe:

You can pick up an aloe leaf (branch?) at Whole Foods or Publix for a couple of bucks and you wouldn't believe the great beauty savings from that. Aloe is such a wonder-plant because it has every healing quality and moisturizing capability known to man.

Buy a leaf, trim the outer ridges, then slice the leaf into sections. Peel the membrane to expose the healing gel. You can youtube this for a how-to.

I use the raw gel as a mask. You wait about 15 minutes for your mask to tighten and then wash off with a damp cloth or just rinse. You skin feels tight and hydrated afterwards.

Water

There's nothing like the benefits of drinking water to keep your body hydrated and beautiful. :)

Cheers to feeling great and well-cared for!

Brooke

A Little Rant, A Whole Lotta Rave

My dog Baier, he turned one year old on Friday. 

Well hello there pretty blog readers!

I'm going to vent and share a little. Something's gotta give.

Lately life has been a little out of sync over here. My daily routine has been replaced by large spans of time fueling anxiety about my law school exams next week and experiencing the repercussions of said anxiety.

I mean, I've been doing everything BUT studying: online shopping, organizing my home, talking to my dog for no reason, randomly walking around my house staring at things ...

Yeah, I've been weirder than normal. 

For those who don't know, I'm a stress ball of a law student that constantly drowns in supreme court opinions. blah, blah blah. 

Basically, only my classmates and my main squeeze see me in law mode. I essentially operate under the assumption that most of my friends I hang with socially don't think I know how to read. 

That's because when I have free time, the LAST thing I want to do is act like a serious pants law geek.

And when I see that beautiful beacon called summertime out there in the horizon, my friends, my psychology lapses into cabana "if I move my chair this way I will get more sun" mode. 

Anyway, I thought I'd share a few things with y'all that you might actually care about. (end life venting). I mentioned in the previous post that I've been watching a TON of makeup tutorials on YouTube. 

Well, Jaclyn Hill has inspired a few product purchases (actually, let's be honest, more than a few). Like, I'm flirting with my limit on my Nordstrom card kind of inspiration, y'all.

I've been trying them out for the past week or so and there are a few gems I'd like to share with y'all.

Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil

photo: sephora.com

Seriously, this stuff is amaze. I have been a huge huge devotee of Moroccan Oil which is an argan-based formula for hair but it's like the heavens opened up when I tried this stuff. There's so much to say. First, it has multiple uses. You can use it as a moisturizer on your face, on your body - wherever. It's great for hair (especially for dry or split ends). I have been using it on my hair in lieu of Moroccan Oil treatment and I think I like this better. More amazingly is that it has healed that delicate skin around the eye. My skin has been severely burned and swollen and flaky for months because of pollen. I thought it was nail polish I'm allergic to, but ohhhh no - it's pollen. It has wreaked serious havoc on my eyes. The skin was literally leathery to the point I couldn't wear concealer or eyeshadow. This totally healed it.  

Downfall: It's pricey. The smaller bottle wasn't available at Sephora when I went there, so I got the $40+ one with high hopes. I'm glad I did. It's an all-in-one magic potion of amazing awesomeness.

Mario Badescu Cucumber Cleansing Lotion

photo: nordstrom.com

Jaclyn recommended Mario Badescu products on her tutorials and this one in particular came HIGHLY recommended. It's called a lotion, but in actuality it's more like a toner and feels sort of like a mild astringent. It's wonderful. If you have dry or combination/sensitive skin this is great to balance your skin. The most glorious thing about it is the feeling you get when you use it - the cleanest clean fresh feeling ever. This stuff goes deep into the pores, cleaning all those nasties from the atmosphere that trap oil and bacteria and cause breakouts. 

Downside: No downside. This stuff rocks. It's cheap, too. $15. That's seriously inexpensive as far as designer or department store type skincare goes.

Use: Use with a cotton pad from the drugstore. Put a little on after cleansing and swipe all over the face. 

Mario Badescu: I've loved Boscia skincare longtime. I can see myself loving Mario Badescu longtime, too. I've bought other products, haven't used them long enough to judge yet.

Nyx Cosmetics Butter Gloss

photo: beautybroadcast.net

These were another makeup recommendation Jaclyn made. I really have grown to trust her opinion because it's an expert one. She has extensive crazy experience with all sorts of product so she knows what's up. (I'm doing a MAC post in the future because of her recs)

Anyway, she suggested trying these Nyx butter glosses. They are available at Ulta ... and OMG they are awesome. I bought the color eclair which I absolutely adore. Can't get enough. These aren't sticky, they truly feel like butter and the pigment is beautiful and rich considering these puppies are only $4-5!! Yes, you read that correctly. #newfavegloss

Downside: No downside. If you like red gloss, I don't think there is a true red but other than that, no downside. They are awesome sauce.

Beauty Blender

photo: sephora.com

I bought my beauty blender at Woo Cosmetics in Buckhead. Y'all have read me wax poetic about Woo in all its glory. That place is like a fairy princess land. 

Anyway, just get one of these things. I use the pointy tip for under eye concealer blending and you can obviously use it for foundation as well. I like to use the fat bottom part for getting excess foundation off or for patting over places where I've concealed blemishes. It's also a great contouring tool.

Use: Run your blender under the faucet and squeeze repeatedly. The blender will grow in size as it absorbs water. Turn the water off, squeeze excess water and you're good to go.

Note: The water the blender absorbs keeps the sponge from absorbing/wasting makeup. That is seriously a lovely quality and one of the brilliant things about this tool.

Wholesome Organic Sugar

photo: wholesome sweeteners

Alright, if you think that going to the food aisle is freaking weird to buy skincare products, please raise your hand.

*Brooke raises her hand and looks around*

Home remedies for skincare are things I've always been weary of. I've done like olive oil and avocado hair masks but that's about it. I always sort of default into my normal product routine in due time. 

(enter Jaclyn Hill, gorgeous beauty guru extraordinaire)

The main product in most exfoliants (um you spend tons of moolah on these guys) is ... you're never going to guess ... sugar. It's basically sugar granulated to not harm the face.

So why not spend $2.00 at Kroger and buy sugar that is in a raw form that is perfect to mix with water or honey (or argan oil) and use as an exfoliant?

Fresh Brown Sugar Scrub is $40 or $65 depending on size. IT HAS SUGAR IN THE NAME! Don't do it to your credit card. Walk your fancy little self over to the organic section, pick this stuff up and go home feeling economical.

Downside: No downside to speak of. I do this 3x a week and it is seriously the best exfoliator ever. My skin is fab-u-lous after I use this.

So, there you have it. A life rant and a few product raves. A little good to go with my frustration.

Thanks for bearing with me!

Also, new SUPER exciting things to come to the blog, so stay tuned, or online, or whatever.

Big, big thank you to Jaclyn Hill for sharing your brilliance for free. Subscribe to her on YouTube. Just do it, y'all.

Cheers darlings,

B

Beauty Tutorials on YouTube

Hey everyone, I'm sorry it's been awhile since I've updated. I've been battling sickness for about two weeks now (gross) and it's that time of year when law school takes priority over just about anything and everything (gross).

The past week or so has been rough to say the least.

With that said, when I'm taking study breaks I tend to lurk on Pinterest or YouTube. One of my favorite things to do is watch makeup beauty tutorials. YouTube has a plethora of professional makeup application videos that are just amazing.

People pay good money to learn the things these kind ladies are offering to show you for free. It's really remarkable.

I'd like to share two YouTube channels I really think are top-notch. These ladies are all professional artists, all three (a sister duo and an artist herself) are MAC trained. MAC is just a really amazing cosmetic organization that is responsible for a majority of the skills and talents of professional artists out there.

MAC's influence is truly extraordinary.

So, when you have a few minutes, hours, days to spare, watch these videos.

Jaclyn Hill YouTube Page

Jaclyn has AMAZING tips and tricks that she shares to highlight and contour your face. I learned about her videos on Pinterest and look forward to watching more of them when my casebooks become increasingly less interesting in the weeks to come.

Particularly, I LOVE her honest advice about makeup brushes and what you really need. There is nothing in the beauty world that is more important to me than really being educated about makeup application. She is a fabulous, beautiful guru.

She also does other cute little videos about favorite things, what's in her purse, etc. She's adorable.


Pixiwoo YouTube Channel

Seriously, ladies Pixiwoo is a cosmetic powerhouse of a YouTube channel. A sister duo, Pixiwoo has literally EVERYTHING you could EVER hope to know about makeup application, brush care, basic application, product reviews,  party application, etc.

Pixiwoo has it all and does it all ... to perfection.

Both sisters are professional makeup artists based outside London and have worked on an entire laundry list of celebrities and beautiful people. Their tips are exquisite, their application is ALWAYS perfect and gorgeous. I am constantly amazed at the artistry of their makeup application.

One of the fun things about their YouTube channel is that they have hundreds of imitation celebrity look videos that are seriously on point. I mean, these women don't look anything like Adele, or Angelina Jolie or Pamela Anderson, etc but after the tutorial you are seriously thinking they switched heads. It's insane.

Just do yourself a favor and have TONS of fun and promise me you'll check out their YouTube channel.

You may spends hours of your life and your family or significant other will wonder what happened to you. Your dog might get lonely.

But you will look fabulous.

Cheers to beauty and life,

B

Introducing Plā Beauty. You're Welcome!

If there's one thing that every southern belle loves (apart from sweet tea, magnolias, country boys and a front porch) it's makeup.

Did Scarlett O'Hara forget her powder before she went to the barbecue at Twelve Oaks? No, no she didn't.

And just like our favorite petticoat wearing Georgia peach, belles today appreciate makeup and its glorious ability to add to our charm.

But sometimes it's just so hard to find the perfect foundation that will stay with you the entire day. Kinda like it's hard to find the perfect blend of Ashley Wilkes and Rhett Butler.

You know what I mean? A foundation needs staying power, but also the ability to make you feel gorgeous.

That doesn't always go hand in hand.

But I found my match when I was introduced to Plā Beauty at Woo Cosmetics by the owner herself, Stephanie Green-Bass. 

I needed a foundation that gave me full coverage, that felt good on my skin, that stayed with me like a real gentleman and made me glow with a southern belle simper.

Pla Beauty Liquid to Powder foundation does all of these things and I love it. I'm positive there's no other foundation for me.

lauracarsonmiller.blogspot.com

When I sat down with the creator of the brand, she explained the purpose, the love and care behind the creation of her line. And she gave me the best makeup application I've ever had. Seriously.

I would be remiss to not mention the admirable story and inspiration behind the brand. Pla Beauty was created by Stephanie Green-Bass in memory of her daughter who she tragically lost to an infection only 18 days after her birth. 

Comforted by the wonderful staff at Children's Healthcare of Altanta, Stephanie was encouraged and, in thanks for their support during such a trying time, Stephanie donates a portion of every sale to Children's Healthcare. 

And despite the difficulty with making such a huge commitment to a cause when you're starting a new line, Stephanie has not faltered and maintains her pledge. 

With a background in the industry, having worked with Carrie Underwood (who wears Pla Beauty), Green-Bass created the line because playing with makeup empowered her, made her happy and she felt she could share quality product with other women and bring smiles to their faces.

Daily Candy

Now, I've tried a good amount of her line and I am just floored by how amazing it all is. The lip glosses aren't sticky and go on smoothly. The color palettes are gorgeous and current. The foundation is lovely.

And I just love supporting inspirational women. And Stephanie Green-Bass is absolutely that. 

Not only is she kind and such a lady, she has such a passion for her line and dedicates her days to making her product better. She cared to ask what I looked for, what I liked about her line and what I would like to see. 

In short, I'm telling you this is a brand to really get behind.

Available at Woo Cosmetics in Buckhead and in Nashville and at Parlour 3 (Where Carrie goes, in Brentwood, TN).

Support an amazing cause and an amazing, passionate southern lady and feel beautiful.

Check out the website, too!

Cheers,

B

Big Event? Here's How I Prepare

So it's mid-week and you look at your calendar and realize you have a big event this weekend requiring you to look ultra-glamorous. 

You freak out.

What's a gal to do? Where do you start? There's so much to do to prepare for a big event on the weekend and usually, there's just too little time to do it.

This is precisely what happened to me this week. I magically remembered on Wednesday that my law school barrister's ball is this Saturday. 

Fabulous. No dress, no plan, no way is this happening.  

Um, of course it's happening. I was born for balls and ruffles and twirling. I'm doing this.

And even though I spend an embarrassing amount of time pretending I'm Kate Middleton (I've been admiring her since I was like 15) my princess status didn't come with a beauty entourage to help me out.

So here's what I do, it's like a checklist and hopefully it will help if you ever have something special planned:

1. Get your dress/ball gown/ hot little number picked out first. It is the base for all other primping decisions. If you're me, that's 3 days before the event apparently.

2. Begin detoxing/eating outrageously healthy. I don't care who you are, you look better in a dress when you keep the extra bloat off. I don't drink wine and keep it to detox water and hot tea. It's not that bad, y'all.

3. Appointments. Are you planning on styling your hair? That's great. Make sure you have all the hair products you need for the big day. If not, it's good to call ahead and make an appointment. If you were thinking about doing to Drybar, hopefully you've already made an appointment. Your salon likely has people to do blowouts and styling, too. 

Are you doing your own makeup? If not, make an appointment. Woo Cosmetics does a GREAT job and I've always like going to MAC at the mall to have my makeup done. MAC artists know how to apply makeup for photographs. The products are formulated for photography. Be prepared to buy like $50 of product.

4. Get your glow on. If you're not afraid of the harmful UV rays, go to the tanning bed 3 days out. It takes 10 minutes, just get in there and get out. Done. Go to the tanning bed 1-2 times before the event. This week I'm doing one tanning sesh, then another the following day and a spray tan (cocktailing).

5. Prepare to doll up. Look through your makeup - is there anything special you need? Eyelashes and glue? A particular eyeshadow or concealer? Make sure your foundation matches your tan. I needed to get a few things, so I went to Woo and the drugstore to get all that ready since I'm doing my own makeup.

6. Shoes. Nothing will wipe that pretty smile and beautiful glow right off of you like painful shoes. If you're grimacing and your date has to army-carry you around that's just not hot. We don't do that. Get you some comfortable shoes, at any price. My only requirement is that they are comfortable. They have foot petals, too, that can make a shoe cushy. Generally, platform heels are more comfortable than heels without platform bases.

7. Play Princess. Two days out, enjoy a mani, pedi, eyebrow touch-up. Whatever it is you need done at a spa/salon. If you're doing some sort of body treatment (body wrap) it's best to do that the afternoon or evening before or morning of the event if you have time. I like to get nails done early in case they mess up or if the color isn't right, you have time to remedy it. Also, it's just a pain to worry about stuff drying when you are getting ready. If you are getting a spray tan, get a pedicure and exfoliate prior to getting the spray tan.

8. Day of the Event. Keep detoxing. Eat things that are easily digested or that are light. Work out, or go for a brisk walk. Anything that makes you feel empowered and beautiful. Do that. Even if that's sitting on the couch. About 3-4 hours before the event, I start getting ready.

If you're wanting to learn from a professional to do your own makeup, or just learn some tips or how to achieve a particular look, do not hesitate, watch these videos from two AMAZING artists: Pixiwoo. I stumbled on their videos one night and have referenced them ever since. I tend to prefer to do my own makeup, I also like doing my own hair for most things. Nothing beats a blowout, though. But I've done just about everything under the sun to prepare for an event so I think it's all a good idea.

9. Spray on your favorite scent, make sure your clutch has everything you need: lipgloss, cash, cards, concealer, mints, etc.

10. Have an amazing time! 

Cheers to looking beautiful and turning heads, darlings.

Happy Friday!  Go Braves!

B

My Beauty Hot List Right Now: Top 10

I don't know about you ladies, but it's always kind of a big deal when a beauty product is worth buying again. Let's put it this way, if I think about how sad I'd be if the beauty devil cancelled production on one of my products and I realize I'd cry or need therapy then I know it's a keeper.

Here are some products that have been there for me lately. They are really something to talk about.

My Beauty Hot List Right Now by aslongasitssouthern featuring a shiseido eyelash curler

(From Left to Right, Top Row then Bottom):

1. Benefit "They're Real!" Mascara:
     Um, this mascara formula REALLY (like really) makes my lashes look like I have fake lashes on. I absolutely love the wand on the mascara, too. It helps get in there and separate those bad boys to make your eyes look oh so pretty.

I got a sample of this for my birthday from Sephora. Best sample ever.

2. YSL Touche Eclat Concealer:
     There's no mistaking the gold color of the container - it's expensive. But I have to tell you, it's worth every penny. This stuff hides it ALL! I love love love it. I just bit the bullet and bought it a while ago and this thing has lasted at least 5 months. It's the most perfect concealer/highlighter/magical potion known to me.

3. Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster Anti-Fatigue Cream:
     My SA at Woo Cosmetics introduced me to this product a week ago and I have been just amazed with what it can do - and how well it does it. It's a moisturizer, hydrating facial mask and makeup primer all in one, depending on how you use it.

     Daily, I apply this (dime-sized) amount as a primer prior to application of foundation. It really helps foundation in place and allows your skin to radiate and stay moisturized. For nights when your skin is fatigued from makeup wear, or allergies, or perhaps a weekend spent in the sun, apply a concentrated amount as a mask for 15 minutes, or apply a more liberal amount as a moisturizer to wear overnight. Your pick. It's amazing and I've honestly noticed a difference in a skin within the week I've been using this product.

4. Simple Makeup Cleansing Wipes:
     I love that these wipes are cheap, unscented and safe to use on sensitive skin. I also love that you can get them at Publix or Kroger. These are fabulous little things that help clean your makeup without having to use a hand cloth to get all of it off. Much more gentle.

5. Shiseido Eyelash Curler:
     This eyelash curler does wonders. I use it everyday before I apply mascara. I love it.

6. Dermalogica Ultra Calming Concentrate:
     My SA at Woo Cosmetics also introduced me to this product and it's a powerhouse of a serum. A little goes a long way, it truly calms skin and restores brightness. I have had the driest skin recently and this stuff has completely reversed the damage.

     I like to apply it in a very concentrated manner around the eyes. It is my favorite thing to use to moisturize and restore the delicate skin around the eye. This product has helped my skin so much, and it's made by dermatologists, assuring you that it's friendly to sensitive skin.

7. Ardell Eyelashes:
     I love that eyelashes can instantly make your look glamorous. These are just the ticket for feeling a bit more fierce before you head out for a date, or a cocktail soiree, or whatever it may be.

     Duo eyelash glue works great with these lashes, just a little bit goes a long way. I like to steady the strip of lashes with a tweezer and voila! These lashes blend in effortlessly with your actual lashes, and guarantee a pep in your step when you go out. I love them.

8. Bond No. 5 New York "Scent of Peace" Bon Bon:
     Bond fragrances are ubiquitous with the chic, crisp feeling of New York. Their fragrances are very fine, very beautifully created and smell absolutely amazing. A bit pricey, ($200-300/bottle) Bond fragrances are the creme de la creme of the fragrance world.

     The bon bons are more reasonable ($95ish), and fit in your bag. Perfect for any occasion. Scent of Peace smells divine.

9. Trish McEvoy Bronzer:
     This product requires little explanation. It's just the best bronzer I've ever used. Guerlain is a closed second in my book. I just love Trish products.

10. MAC Eyeliner in Coffee:
     Coffee is the PERFECT color eyeliner (well, for brown haired people). It really makes my eyes pop and isn't so harsh. This eyeliner applies very easily and stays put.

Cheers, darlings!

Hope your day is beautiful!
B

Drybar: My kinda place

Alli Webb once spent her days driving around Los Angeles to her clients' homes who needed her for her signature service: a blowout.

Today, she's at the helm of a $20 million operation known as Drybar. An idea born from the seat of her Nissan Xterra, Drybar brings blowouts at an affordable price point (only $35) to the masses.

With the mantra: "No cuts. No color. Just Blowouts." the bar focuses exclusively on styling your hair. Which makes it perfect for a night out, a date, or any special occasion where you'd like your hair to look marvelous.

At Drybar, the "bar" concept is personified, coming alive in each Drybar product and each aspect of the Drybar  experience. Clients can enjoy complimentary cocktails while sitting at the beautiful bar, while watching classic movies, and munching on snacks and sweet treats.

You can even get a floater (massage) with your speciality cocktail-inspired blowout.

Drybar Buckhead, next to Flywheel. Image courtesy of talkingwithtami.com

Care for  a Mai Tai, Manhattan, Cosmo, Straight Up, or Hot Toddy anyone? These are the different styles you can order at the bar. You can sign me up for a Southern Comfort. I love big hair.

Appointments are hard to come by, so book a week or more in advance via the Drybar mobile app or online. Of course, you can call, too.

In March, the Drybar product line launched and it is fabulous. The Drybar brush is wonderful and a personal favorite is the "Southern Belle" volumizing mousse. The buttercup blowdryer will be my next purchase. Moroccan Oil Products are also used.

So next time you have a date, or just want to be taken care of, consider Drybar.

Treat yourself, have a mimosa and get blown away.

Cheers darlings,

B

One Stop Beauty Shop: Woo Cosmetics, Buckhead

Hate dodging the wafts of perfume and the excited sales associates shoving blush brushes at your face in cosmetics departments? Yeah, me too.

There's a time and a place for all of that, but there's also a time when it's nice to just peruse beauty products without the pressure of buying and without the irritation that comes with big brand department stores. 

Woo Skincare and Cosmetics provides just that sort of luxury. 

Woo Skincare and Cosmetics

Tucked away in the Peachtree Battle Shopping Center off of Peachtree Road, Woo Skincare and Cosmetics provides top beauty products in a wonderful package: a no pressure environment with friendly associates who know and use the products and won't bother you until you need them.

Seriously, never have I walked in there without being greeted with "Let me know if I can help you, would you like a water or a cocktail or something while you enjoy looking?"

They are that kind and relaxed. What more could you ask for?

There's actually more, though. With visits from the big names themselves, (hello, Trish McEvoy!) and a full spa in the back of the boutique, Woo is a beauty powerhouse in a very laid-back, accessible environment.

Here are some of my favorite things to purchase at Woo:

Pla Beauty Lipglosses

Pla Beauty is an AMAZING line of beauty products created by an Atlantan lady who was inspired by her daughters (one of her daughters passed) and pledges proceeds to Children's Heathcare of Atlanta in her daughter's memory. What a beautiful gesture. I'm a huge fan of Pla Beauty, love supporting the brand and it's ONLY available at Woo to the best of my knowledge.

Trish McEvoy Beauty Balm

 Trish McEvoy has been a long-loved beauty line in my life. First of all, Trish is famous for her beauty organizer concept which is FABULOUS. More on that later. What means the most to me about Trish products is that Trish developed her product line with there dermatologist-husband so I trust the McEvoy line very much. It certainly is worth the money; her foundations and moisturizers (Beauty Boost is a life-changer) are the best things I've ever used for my skin.

Kai candle

 I was first turned onto Kai candles when the infamous store Blue Genes was alive and well at the Shops Around Lenox. They smell so fantastic and Woo is the only place that I know of that sells them. Kai also makes lotions I think and probably a few other items. You can't go wrong.

Dermalogica Products

 Admittedly, I've only used one of the Dermalogica products before, the Ultra Calming Serum. With travel and seasonal changes (when will it ever just stay warm?) my skin has just become so confused. Distressed, I went to Woo and the associate calmed be down and introduced me to Dermalogica because she used the same product to cure an allergy to a concealer. This stuff has WORKED. My skin is so much better, more moisturized and calm. Dermalogica products do what the associate promised, because she new from experienced. I credit her knowledge and expertise for helping me out.

Moroccan Oil Product Line

 Moroccan Oil is a god-send to the hair care world. The treatment oil seals the hair follicle, protecting your hair's luster and creating shine. The treatment oily can be applied as a mask (I do this while studying). The shampoo and conditioner is amazing as well as the masks. Woo even has the travel kits that will get you through airport security and will keep your tresses looking fabulous while jet-setting.

Trish McEvoy Beauty Organizer

I had mentioned that Trish McEvoy is famous for her organizer and rightfully so. Trish has created a system for organizing makeup that makes application (and packing) so effortless that I just can't contain my excitement about it.

Each makeup step: Foundation, Powder, Blush, Bronzer, Eye Base, Eye Concealer, Eye Shadow, etc magnetizes into a "beauty organizer page" and voila! you can flip thru your makeup like a book. It's so genius. There are smaller organizers available (highly recommend) that you can stash into your work tote or gym bag or what have you.

Woo has specials on the organizers, like the beauty planner that's available now in pink. You get about $400 worth of product for $150. They are SO cute, too. Love it.

If the broad range of product lines (Caudale skincare, Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, YSL, Fresh, St. Tropez, Chantecaille and Giorgio Armani) aren't enticing enough, just think of the idea that a darling little beauty boutique offers the finest beauty can offer, right in your neighborhood.

No pushy sales to be made. No frustrating mall parking issues. 

Just beauty loveliness, all for you to enjoy.

Locations in Atlanta and Nashville, keeping it southern. <3

Thanks Woo!

B