March 27, 2015

March Lady Favorites

Happy Favorites Day! I've been loving some great things this month and I'm so excited to share them all with you!




  • Kassandra Caged Pumps (Target): I've been loving the shoes that Target is putting out lately, and these are no exception! The platform and chunky heel make them easy to walk in, which is always (ALWAYS ALWAYS) a plus for clumsy old me. I love the heavy style of this sandal! Perfect for pairing with a pair of tight, black skinny jeans or a fun dress!
  • Bleeker Bucket Bag (Free People): This bag is also featured in my Pinch Me post. I'd been hunting for the perfect bucket bag for a while when I saw this one featured in a Youtube video by Kalel Kitten. I immediately put in my order and voila! I'm in love! The only thing I don't like about it is that it's kind of hard to find what I'm looking for in it, but I'm thinking that may be the case with most bags in this style. Fashion over efficiency, always. (;
  • PureSol Konjac Sponge-Activated Charcoal Facial Sponge (Amazon): I watch a lot of Youtube and I had been seeing sponges like these being used by a few of my favorite girls. I'm always looking for new ways to improve my trouble-making skin, so I decided to try this out. I haven't noticed a HUGE difference in my skin because of this, but there seems to have been some improvement with the entire system that I'm using and I think this has a little to do with it.
  • Kiehl's Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser: I like this cleanser because it's gentle on my sensitive skin, but it's also effective. I've tried plenty of gentle cleansers, but I've felt they didn't do much to heal my skin. I've also tried more harsh cleansers that only irritated it more. This, I feel, has been a great middle man. In addition to the other products I'm mentioning here, I am starting to see some positive results concerning my acne.
  • Kiehl's Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion: Another new addition to my skincare routine. This toner is helping to remove any leftover dirt and makeup that my cleanser leaves behind. I can actually see it on the cotton pad, gross, but satisfying since I know it's being taken off my sensitive skin. I usually go over my face twice with this stuff. Once, to really get all the yuck off, and again (on a new cotton pad) to make sure that nothing was left behind.
  • Redken Iron Shape 11 Heat Protectant: I used to use heat protectant every time I used heat on my hair, but at some point (I don't even know when), it fell off my list of hair priorities. Not a good thing. After getting my shorter haircut, this was suggested to me. Heat protectant has made it's way back onto my list, and I plan to keep it there from now on.
  • Redken Guts 10:This was also suggested to me by my hair stylist. It smells like watermelon Jolly Ranchers, but that's not the only reason I like it. I have fairly flat hair, with no texture to it. This spray mousse pumps my roots up just a little, and gives my new 'do a little movement. I need this whether my hair is long or short.
  • Redken Mess Around 10: This final suggestion from my hair guy is a super soft pomade that I use after I've given my hair a little wave or curl. It gives me the "piecey" look I love without the crunch that waxes or gels can present us with. I'm not into the crunchy hair look, but to each his own.
  • Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer: I've heard a lot of great things about this book and have been wanting to check it out for a long time. One night, boytoy and I were out to eat at Chili's (yum), when I overheard a man at the booth behind me talking about self-discovery and finding your own happiness. Forgive me for eavesdropping, but I'm on a constant mission of self-help. When he mentioned this book, I figured it was a sign that I should finally pick it up. Coincidentally, Chili's is in the same area as Barnes and Nobel where I live, so where did we find ourselves merely 15 minutes before closing time? Barnes and Noble. I knew exactly where it was, since I had been eyeing it on previous trips to the store, so I was out of there in 5 minutes thanks to the speeding cashier. I'm only three chapters in, but this one is a thinker. I'm sure I'll have more to say once I'm done reading it, but so far, I'm enjoying it, making notes (as I usually do in books), and really taking my time with it in order to get the most out of it. I may even have to re-read it a couple times. I just thought I'd share. God is good all the time. Keeping my heart open to any messages he is sending me through this book, and also life's obstacles and miracles. 
Have a fabulous weekend, my friends! If the weather is as nice as the weather man says it will be, you'll finally be getting more outfit posts next week.

Hair, skin, and Jesus,
Brittani
<3

PS-Any suggestions you have for inspirational books are more than welcome!

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March 23, 2015

Lady Reviews: Dessange VoxBox

I was recently sent a few hair products from Influenster, by a brand that I had never previously heard of: Dessange Paris.
I'm always eager to try new hair products, so I was excited to test these out for ya'll.
First, a little research brought me some information about the brand, itself.
Visit www.desange-international.com to learn a little about it.

Photo Source: Google Images

A little background on my hair:
I got a chance to try this line out on both my long (pre-cut) hair and my new short hair. Before I cut my hair, the ends were a little stringy and dry, but I wouldn't say my hair appeared super damaged. I have been coloring my hair sporadically and using hot tools since I was 15, so over time, that can add up to at least a little damage. I have normal to oily hair, but mostly normal. I have lots and lots of hair too. It's thick, so it sucks up product like nobody's business. Since cutting it, my ends are obviously a lot healthier, but the overall texture (or lack thereof) is the same: smooth and flat.

Now, on to the products:

Shampoo: I'm someone who feels like the more bubbles a shampoo gives me, the more work it's doing. I might be crazy, but I just prefer a rich lather. I don't find that this shampoo really gives me that. Even now that I cut my hair short, I have to use a lot of the product in order to get the lather that I desire, which means that one bottle will likely give me very few washes in comparison to other brands. The product cleans just fine, but because of my personal preferences, I wouldn't purchase this product myself.

Conditioner: I also tend to use oodles and oodles of conditioner to insure I get as much moisture into my ends as possible. I don't have to use nearly as much conditioner from this line as I do shampoo in order to get the results I want. I like the conditioner for both long and short hair.

Oil: I've always used a leave-in treatment in my hair, especially when it was super long. This oil is just that. With my long hair, I used one pump from about where my ears are, all the way to the ends. Now, I use half a pump. I must have used much more the first time I used this product because it left my hair feeling gross. It felt like there was a film or coating over my hair that I did not like one bit. Now that I am using much less, I feel a whole lot better about using this oil in my hair after washing it (when it's still damp). After using this, and once my hair is dry, my hair feels soft and silky. I think this might be my favorite product that I tried out.

Silky strands, lovely locks, and perfect ponytails,
Brittani
<3

PS-I hope you're enjoying some pretty spring weather where you are! It's been raining on the weekends, so I'm having a hard time shooting outfit photos. Hopefully, I will get some in this week while the sun is out!

 DISCLAIMER: I WAS SENT THIS PRODUCT FOR REVIEW FROM INFLUENSTER.COM. ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.


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March 20, 2015

Go with the Flow

 Hey people! Happy Friday!(:
I hope you had a great week and are ready for a fabulous weekend!
Today's look is super relaxed and great for a day of errands or even a picnic at the park...you know, whatever your heart desires. Except swimming, please don't swim in this.


I love the sense of ease that this flowy top gives off. The laid-back, boho vibe is so casual and cool.


To go along with my casual vibe, I'm wearing my favorite jeggings that you've probably seen way too many times. I like to cuff them when I'm wearing shoes that go up over the ankle a bit to really show them off.


My long charm necklace is not too busy for this simple look.


I'm so excited to break out my favorite sandals for the spring. These are a fun addition to this look.

 

 

Top: Altar'd State *similar || Jeans: American Eagle *similar || Necklace: Runway Seven Boutique *similar || Sandals: Forever 21 *similar

Have an awesome weekend!

Mint green nail polish, wildflowers, and sun tans,
Brittani
<3

PS-Never has it been more difficult to get my hair into a ponytail. This shorter cut is going to take some getting used to.

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March 18, 2015

Lady Reviews: Zenwise Green Tea Extract


Happy Hump Day, everyone!
Today, I'm reviewing a supplement sent to me by Zenwise Labs. Green tea extract is said to have loads of health benefits, so I was super excited to try this one out and report back to you.


Here are the claims that Zenwise Labs makes for this supplement:

Zenwise Labs Advanced Green Tea Extract contains our specialized blend of Green Tea Extract and Vitamin C. Green Tea extract is plant based and has been shown to assist in weight loss, lower the risk of heart disease, as well as lower cholesterol all without feeling shaky or jittery. Adding Vitamin C with Green Tea has been shown to increase the antioxidant effects, allowing you to get the most out of your supplement.

A powerful dietary supplement that offers a wealth of benefits for men and women seeking healthier living:
- Assists with weight loss
- Lowers cholesterol
- Increases brain function and physical performance
- Reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes and various brain diseases

Features a special tandem of Green Tea and Vitamin C that fortifies and enhances the body:
- Packed with natural antioxidants
- Boosts immune system
- Provides supreme protection against free radicals
- Loaded with polyphenols to fend off diseases
 
Make Zenwise Labs your trusted source for premium-quality supplements and unrivaled customer care: 
- 120 caffeine-free capsules for extended use and superb value
- Made in USA in FDA registered facilities that are NSF and GMP certified
- Gluten free, and contains no wheat, egg, milk, peanut, shellfish or soy
- Cruelty-free

About Us:
ZenWise Labs is an online distributor of supplements designed to improve your everyday life. Our Goal is to dramatically enhance the health of our customers through high quality products and excellent customer care. All of our products are All Natural, Made in the USA, and GMP certified, so you know that you’re getting the strength, composition, quality, and purity displayed on the label.


My thoughts:

I am currently taking the recommended dosage, which is one capsule, twice daily.

-I don't feel that this product has helped or hurt my weight in any way. My desire to test this product out had nothing to do with weight loss, so this doesn't bother me. It may work for those trying to lose weight, though. I'm not saying that it does or doesn't work for this purpose. Maybe with the right diet and exercise, this could assist those seeking to lose weight.

-I don't test my cholesterol, so I can't help there either. Sorry! Haha! So far, I haven't helped you much, have I? Don't worry, it's coming!

-Increasing brain function and physical performance was a really motivating claim for me. I think my brain works just fine, but I do tend to get tired and run out of energy throughout the day, like many of you do I'm sure. I feel like this supplement helps me with this a little bit. I'm all for any help I can get, so I love that! I don't think it's a drastic improvement, but it's something. I've been using this product for only about a month. Maybe after several months of use, I will see a drastic change. If not, at least I have this small change. I'm ok with that!

-Anything that reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes and various brain diseases is ay-ok in my book. I've read that green tea extract does this among other things in various places other than just this company's claim, so it must be true right? Check out this article from WebMD, for example. There's really no way for me to tell you that this is true other than research.

-The same goes for antioxidants. I try to take in as many as I can get. I'm all about antioxidants, and you should be too!

-You don't know this about me, but I had to have a splenectomy when I was nine years-old. This means I had my spleen removed. Gross, I know, but whatayagonnado? Because the spleen is basically the organ that fights off illnesses and keeps the immune system up, and I don't have that protection, it's easier for me to get sick than people with spleens. Taking in foods and supplements that help to build the immune system up, is important for me. Green tea extract is something that helps with this, so if there's one single reason for me to continue using green tea extract, this is it.

-One more plus that isn't mentioned by the company has been the help it seems to have given my skin. I may just be imagining it, but I feel like this is helping to control my acne....don't quote me on that though. For all I know, it could just be wishful thinking.


In conclusion, I will continue to use this supplement. I like it, and do think it's worth the buy!
Purchase Zenwise Labs Green Tea Extract + Vitamin C on Amazon.

Healthy mind, body, and soul,
Brittani
<3

PS-Don't forget to check out my previous post where I debut my new hairdo!

 DISCLAIMER: I WAS SENT THIS PRODUCT FOR REVIEW FROM Zenwise Labs THROUGH TOMOSON.COM. ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

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March 16, 2015

Pinch Me

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Ok ok I know it's not until tomorrow, but I don't post on Tuesdays, so I'm celebrating with you today!
The color of the day is obviously green!


I decided to go with this pleated green maxi skirt that I've been dying to wear for months! It's FINALLY getting warm enough to put away the leggings...well maybe not put them away...maybe just wear them less often. I'm breaking out maxis and I love it! This one has a metallic sheen to it that I'm obsessed with!


I paired the skirt with this flowy t-shirt. To get a boring old tee some TeeLC (sweet what I did there?), I gathered it into a knot right in front. Instant pizazz!


You know this drusy and crystal necklace is my current jewelry love, so of course, it's making another appearance here.


I've been searching for a nice bucket bag like this one FOR-EV, so I was super excited to see this one online. I couldn't resist!



You can see my shoes peaking out from under the skirt in some of these photos. I needed a little extra height to keep my skirt from dragging. Also, they are GORG! I'll have them linked below as usual so be sure to check them out!


Don't forget to wear green tomorrow or else you might get PINCHED!

Tshirt: GoJane *similar || Skirt: The Mint Julep Boutique *similar || Necklace: Runway Seven Boutique *similar || Shoes: Lulu's *similar || Bag: Free People *similar || Earrings: Altar'd State *similar

Rainbows, leprechauns, and pots-o-gold,
Brittani
<3

PS-Did you notice I chopped my hair off?!(:

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March 13, 2015

Check Mate

I'm so glad I had this look saved up for a rainy day, because, literally, that's all we've had this week. Rain, rain, go away! I can't document my fashion obsession via photos with rain coming down like nobody's business! Alas, this fun spring look is a fashion life saver this week!


I wore this outfit a few weeks ago to a crawfish boil (yes we really do have those in Louisiana) and really loved wearing it!


This soft gingham flannel is super comfy! Ya'll know I love me some oversized clothes! To keep things a little more polished and a little less frumpy, tuck in your oversized shirts to add some shape!


These classic Levi cuttoff shorts are actually hand-me-downs from my 16-year-old cousins...whatayagunndo? Cutoff shorts are a spring and summer staple in my closet.


I threw on this grandpa cardigan for a layering piece that I could take off if it warmed up throughout the day...it did not.


Boat shoes tie in the whole casual theme here and are nice to wear when the ground is wet from rain.



Accessories are kept simple as usual with this faux python clutch to add another pattern to the mix and my usual gold watch.







Stay dry this weekend, people!

Checked Shirt: Zara *similar | Cardigan: Target *similar | Shorts: Levi's *similar | Shoes: Sperry *similar | Watch: Anne Klein *similar | Clutch: unsure (oops!) *similar

Peace, love, and Louisiana fun,
Brittani
<3

PS-I promise I'll reveal my new look as soon as the sun comes out!

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March 11, 2015

What's in my beauty basket?

Here's an updated look at what's inside my beauty basket! I love trying new things, so if you see something here that was in my What's in my makeup bag? post, then you know I love it!
First of all, you may have noticed a change in titles. Like most people, I used to use a makeup BAG to hold all my beauty treasures, but now, I use a "beauty BASKET". I like this because I can easily pull the whole basket out of my bathroom cabinet and see everything I have to work with. I purchased an inexpensive basket from the dollar store that's small and rectangular so that it stores easily in my cabinet. This basket from Amazon is also a great option, but ditch the fabric liner if you're makeup gets messy as you use it like mine does.

Now, in order of use, on to the products...

 1. Make Up Forever HD Foundation-This is my second or third bottle of this stuff. I like that it gives a glowy look. I'm not a fan of completely matte foundation. This is also really great for photos because it reflects light beautifully which translates well on camera.

2. Tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer-Ya'll. This concealer is heavy duty! I use it under my eyes to cover dark circles and also anywhere I have a little (or big) skin issue. I know they say you should have two separate concealers for those two tasks, but why fix what isn't broken. I like this and I'm sticking to it...for now.

3. L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Powder-I forgot how great this powder is. I picked it up when I needed to freshen up my t-zone one day, and I loved it so much I went back for another so that I can keep one in my basket and one in my purse! It gives such a great, smooth finish, but isn't overly matte in my opinion.

4. NYX HD Eye Shadow Base-This is another product I've gone through tubes and tubes of. It's not all that fun, but it does the job beautifully, keeping my eye shadow in place all day without a crease in sight. I also like wearing this even if I'm not applying eye shadow because it's a nude color that evens out the color of my lids.

5. Milani Brow & Eye Highlighter (not pictured) in Vanilla/Natural Taupe- I forgot to add this to the photo, but I love it nonetheless. I use the taupe end to fill in my brows and the highlighter under my brow bone for a faux glow and eye lift. It's easy to use and isn't so dark that it's super noticeable. I think it looks natural.

6. Lorac Pro Pallette-I have used this pallette every single day since I purchased it. I can guarantee, if I'm wearing shadow, it's from this pallette. I love choosing a neutral shimmer shade for all over my lid (my favorite lately is champagne) and a matte brown color (I've already hit pan on taupe) in my crease. I'm not sure what I'll do when I run out of my favorite colors. Hopefully, they're available as singles...I haven't checked into that yet.

7. NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk-I use this pencil in the corners of my eyes for a brightening effect, then I set it with the white eye shadow that's in the Lorac Pallette. I like how it brightens up my eyes. The creamy pencil helps to hold the shadow there all day.

8. Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner in Black-This liner is super creamy and dark. I use it to line my upper lash line only and just use a brown shadow for my lower lash line so that my eyes appear bigger. I have a backup of this ready and waiting for when I run out of this one.

9. Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner in Nude-The same liner I use on my upper lids, but in Nude. I love using this on my water line to make my eyes appear even bigger. It doesn't last all day long, but I'd have a hard time finding one that does in my watery eyes. The nude color is perfect because it looks more natural than using white like many people do.

10. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer-I use this in the hollows of my cheeks and around my hairline and chin to contour my face a little. I'm no contour goddess, but this matte bronzer helps me out in that department. The color of it is great for that shadow effect and it has no glitter or shimmer, a must when looking for the perfect contour shade.

11. Mac Powder Blush in Gingerly-This is a great natural blush color that I've been using for a long time. When I'm not feeling a bold cheek look, this is my go-to. It's matte too, so that works great when I'm going for a toned-down look.

12. Lorac Matte Satin Blush in Exposed-When I am feeling a little more bold, I use this blush. It's a bright coral-ly (not a word) pink color that pops against my semi-fair skin tone. I like that it leaves a sheen on my cheek bones without being super glittery.

13. It Cosmetics Hello Light Powder Illuminizer-I haven't tried many highlighters, but all the ones I have tried were cream. I decided to give this powder one a go and I'm so glad I did! It gives a great glow to my skin without any glitter or obvious white-cast. It's a very finely milled powder, so it doesn't come off chalky at all.

14. Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herb, and Rosewater-I spray this all over my face after I've applied everything except mascara. I feel like it sets my makeup and helps with any dryness at the same time. I also use this throughout the day when my skin is feeling super dry.

15. Benefit They're Real Mascara in Black-I have this in a mini-sample size. I grabbed it in the checkout line at Ulta. (You know they always get you there too!) I really like the length this mascara gives me! The ball at the end of the brush is also great for getting my bottom lashes coated without a mess of mascara smeared under my eyes.

16. YSL Volume Effet Faux Cils Luxurious Mascara in Black-This is another sample. I got this one as a gift with purchase at Neiman Marcus when we were in Dallas. I've only used it a couple of times so far, but I'm liking the volume it's adding to my lashes. I use it on my top lashes after coating them once with the Benefit mascara.

Keep in mind, I do not use all of these every single day, most days I do, but I also like to give my skin a break. I usually try to skip the foundation a least once a week, and occasionally (or more), I am too tired to apply eye shadow in the morning.

Lashes, pouts, and makeup-free days,
Brittani
<3

PS-It's your turn to spill your beauty secrets! Any products, tips, or tricks I should try out?! Let me know in the comments section!

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March 9, 2015

Ooh La La

There's nothing more cozy and comfy than an oversized sweater and a warm scarf. With weather like we're having this week, I need all the comfort I can get.


I love the color combo in this look. The light blush shade paired with different tones of gray is super feminine. The destroyed sweater offsets that feminine feel with a little edginess.


Corduroy pants are a stylish way to keep warm.



These gray, faux sued boots are slouchy and relaxed. I don't wear these often enough.


I kept my jewelry to a minimum with these turquoise double studs.


Sweater: Windsor *similar | Pants: Target *similar | Scarf: Aeropostale *similar | Boots: Charlotte Russe *similar | Earrings: BaubleBar *similar

Praying for some pretty, sunny weather here in Louisiana.

Rain, snow, and vanilla lattes,
Brittani
<3

PS-You're in for a surprise next time you see me!

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