Kelley's Makeup Routine

Happy Humpday!  Like my skincare regimen, my makeup routine is pretty simple, too - I stick with the basics, but I do use a few items to enhance my makeup.  There's a few products I've used for years, and then there are a few items I switch up when I run out of the current product I'm using. Let's get down to business...

1.  Clinique Even Better Foundation - I've been using this foundation for about three years now.  It's really smooth and goes on nicely. It's not super thick or cakey. It covers and evens out my skin tone beautifully.  On the weekends, if I'm just running errands I'll squeeze just a bit of my Oil of Olay moisturizer I mentioned yesterday on my palm, add just a smidge of this foundation and combine together to create an easy tinted moisturizer.

2.  Smashbox Photo Op Under Eye Brightener - I've just recently started using this product, but I'm already really loving it.  It brightens my under eyes and leaves them feeling moisturized.  Like Maeci, I have trouble with dark circles under my eyes and this product seems to be helping.  It looks a bit shimmery in the tube, and although it has some shimmer in it, it doesn't look that way once you have it on. Then I just put on a little of my under eye concealer on top.

3.  Lancome Maquicomplet Concealer - I loooove this concealer. It comes in several colors so it matches almost every complexion. It goes on smooth and doesn't leave you with rings around your eyes like some do.  It doesn't cake or leave creases and stays on all day long. I just do one dot under each eye, spread in a triangle shape under my eye, then add one more dot under each eye and pat until it is blended.  I also use this for any blemishes or spots.

4.  Lancome Translucence Face Powder - I tried several powders before I started using this one a few years ago. It's not a heavy powder, but works beautifully to set your foundation and leave you with a flawless matte finish (that doesn't look too matte). My mom used this powder for years and now I can totally see why.  It's great on its own and looks effortless when used to set your foundation.

5.  Lancome Blush Subtil in 'Blushing Tresor' - I actually just purchased this beauty last weekend, so it's new to me, but I can already tell it's going to be a keeper.  It's a beautiful fall tone - rosy pink with a gold shimmer to it.  I'm a big fan of blushes with a bit of shimmer. I love the way the light reflects on my cheeks and it almost gives it a dewey look without actually being dewey. I just apply it using this big powder brush to give it more of a natural sunkissed look.

6.  Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion - If you get nothing else from this post, then at least go purchase this amazing eyeshadow primer.  It only takes the tiniest amount so the bottle lasts forever. I refuse to put on eyeshadow anymore unless I use this first.  It sets the shadow in place and doesn't budge all day long.  It doesn't get into your creases either so the shadow looks perfect.

7.  Urban Decay Eyeshadow - I started using these eyeshadows earlier this year and really love them.  They have a great velvety texture to them.  My go-to color is "Sin" which is a shimmery champagne color that blends into my skin tone leaving my eyeshadow perfect for daytime.  I also love their Naked3 palette which has rose gold tones in it.  If I want to amp up the daytime shadow look, I add a little of the "Mugshot" color to my outer corners and blend.

8.  Laura Mercier Creme Eyeliner - I don't wear this eyeliner every day, but I do wear it often.  It is stunning with green eyes (which I have), but looks great on anyone.  It's a dark violet so it doesn't look crazy purple on you.  I just use an eyeliner brush to swipe it on close to the lash line.  It's a gel type cream so it goes on smoothly.

6.  Benefit They're Real Mascara - Maeci talked about this mascara in her rundown, but I started using it again recently. I seem to go back and forth with mascaras, only because it seems like my lashes get used to whatever I'm currently wearing and it doesn't work as well over time (tell me that's not just me...).  This mascara goes on and stays on, and I especially love the tip of the brush - it's great for getting into the corners of your lashes and close to the lash line.  It doesn't flake at all. My only complaint would be that it is a little hard to get off with just my face wash. I use this eye makeup remover though and it comes off like a charm.

7.  Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Brow Mousse - Confession: I fill in my eyebrows.  They aren't as full as they used to be and this brow mousse is amazing for filling them in without looking like a totally filled them in. The mousse is light and airy. Using the brush it came with, I just add a little to the angled brush filling in from the center bottom across then center top across and inside. Then I just brush over it to blend with the other end of the brush.

8.  Trish McEvoy Lipstick - This is my all-time favorite lipstick.  It goes on beautifully and the colors are always perfect.  My two favorites are 'Precious Pink' and 'Sheer Mulberry.' 'Precious Pink' is a light pink that goes on looking very natural.  You can see me wearing it here on my old blog.  The 'Sheer Mulberry' is a natural merlot/mulberry color that is perfect for fall and winter.  I'll be wearing it all the time!

And that's it!  What are your makeup go-to's? Any favorites we should know about?

Kelley's Skincare Regimen

Maeci shared her skincare routine with y'all last week, so now it's my turn to share my skincare routine with y'all!  My skin is normal to dry and I don't get blemishes often - and I like keeping it that way.  Admittedly, I keep my skin routine simple - and that's mostly because I know myself.  I know if things get too convoluted with my routine I'll get overwhelmed with the amount of products and just give up.  So with my simple routine, here are my go-to items:

1.  Rodan + Fields Redefine Daily Cleansing Mask - I have never used a product that I could visibly see results within the first few days of using it - and I could certainly see results with this one!  It's a bit on the pricier side, but I will say it is hands down worth the splurge.  I've been lucky in the skin department and rarely get a blemish, but as I've gotten older I've noticed my pores getting a tiny bit more visible.  After only using this cleanser a little over a week, my skin is touchably softer and I can see that my pores are smaller.  Don't go back and forth about buying it - JUST DO IT.

2.  Lancome Creme Radiance Cleanser - This has been my every day cleanser for years!  I love this stuff and even though I've been using the Rodan + Fields cleanser, I still use this as my every day cleanser.  I use it to remove my eye makeup especially.  You only need to use a pea-size amount and it foams up great and removes every bit of makeup from my face.

3.  Oil of Olay Complete Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin - I have been using this moisturizer since I was 14 years old (so, nearly 14 years!).  I cannot stress enough how important it is to use SPF in your daily moisturizer even if you won't be in direct sunlight.  The health of my skin has become even more important to me as I get older.  I notice women every day who I would peg for being much older than they actually are and am stunned when I hear their actual age - and most of that has to do with the health of their skin!  This stuff has been my go-to and I love it dearly.  It goes on smooth, lasts forever and dries quickly without leaving me feeling sticky.

Maeci's Makeup Routine

Last week, I talked a little about my skincare regimen. I mentioned that I'm a little high maintenance when it comes to skincare, but I'm a little more laid back with makeup. 

I've never really enjoyed playing in makeup. I've always been more of a necessities kind of girl. So, you'll rarely see me in colorful eye makeup, or any eye makeup besides mascara, really. 

Here are my daily go-to makeup items...

Via

1. Concealer: I have terrible dark circles under my eyes; they're apparently hereditary (thanks, mom!). I like Clinique's All About Eyes Concealer because it works double duty - it covers dark circles while reducing puffiness. It never creases, it lasts all day, and a little goes a really long way, so I only buy it about once a year.

Via

2. Mineral Powder Foundation: This is a new staple. Until about a month ago, I wasn't even wearing foundation (I'm lazy, y'all). But, I succumbed to the fact that I need a little help in the uneven skin tone department. I love the Laura Mercier Mineral Powder because it looks natural, it provides great coverage, and it makes my skin glow. 

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3. Blush: I use blush to help brighten my face. My favorite summer blush is Clinique's Iced Lotus - it's bright pink in the compact, but it looks so great on. And, I love NARS Orgasm for fall/winter. 

Via

4. Mascara: Please, if you're going to pick just one makeup item, choose mascara. It makes such a HUGE impact. As I've mentioned before, I love the Benefit They're Real mascara. You can really glam it up with this mascara, but it's great for everyday too.

Via

5. Lipstick: After mascara, lipstick is the second most important makeup item for me. I think EVERY WOMAN looks better with lipstick. Seriously, every single one. It brightens your face and makes your teeth look whiter. Throw on some mascara and lipstick and look like you've actually put effort into getting ready (even though it takes less than 5 minutes). I got some Chanel lipstick for my wedding day. I'd never used it before, and it is a little pricey, but I really like it. It's creamy and just enough color. I'm using Chanel Rouge Coco in Irresistible.

So, that's it. On average, I spend 10 minutes or less doing my makeup each morning. What's your morning makeup routine? Which product can you not live without? 

Maeci's Skincare Regimen

I'm totally low maintenance when it comes to makeup, but it's another story when it comes to actual skincare. I think it's so important to take care of what's underneath all that makeup...otherwise, the makeup will never look as good as it should!

So, here's a little peek into my skincare regimen...

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1. Monthly facial/dermaplaning: This is my biggest splurge, but I think it's totally worth it. I get a Vitamin C Fusion Facial with dermaplaning once a month. Bonus, the facial includes a neck, shoulder, and hand massage...so relaxing!

Dermaplaning is a simple and quick procedure that basically exfoliates your skin and removes fine hairs. It's nothing like dermabrasion, so don't be scared! There is no heal time, and your skin feels SO SOFT afterwards! 

If you're looking for an esthetician in Montgomery, you should definitely check with Lauren at Montgomery Aesthetics Med Spa! She's the best.

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2. Obagi Nu-Derm Cleanser: I started using this cleanser on recommendation from Lauren. It removes my makeup (including my hard to remove mascara) and makes my skin feel squeaky clean. And, it's gentle enough to use twice a day. I'm working my way up to the total Nu-Derm system, but it ain't cheap!

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3. Retin A Cream: Both my dermatologist and my esthetician have told me that Retin A is one of the most important components of a good skincare regimen. It helps your skin renew itself so it stays clear and glowing for years to come. I switch between Renova and generic tretinoin cream. I like Renova because it's really creamy and feels more like a lotion than a treatment cream, but it's a little expensive. So, tretinoin cream does the trick and only costs me about $10/tube. And, those little tubes last forever!

Via

4. Moisturizer/sunscreen: I used to never use moisturizer because I was under the (false) assumption that it made my skin oilier. Now, I use it every morning and night. I like the Olay Regenerist system because it's a great value. Moisturizers can be expensive! Plus, the Oil of Olay company has stood the test of time (over 50 years in business), and the products have received great third-party reviews. 

And, it's important to wear sunscreen every day! Believe me, I LOVE the sun. I used to go to the tanning bed in preparation for Spring Break and use tanning oil with no SPF. I was crazy. But then I had a skin cancer scare last year! Luckily, it was Basal Cell Carcinoma, which is the "best" kind of skin cancer you can have. But, I still had to have it removed, and I have an ugly scar on my back. 

Ideally, you'd use a separate sunscreen. But, I prefer to use moisturizer with SPF to cut down on getting ready time. 

So, there you have it. I'll outline my makeup routine later this week (it's much less involved). What is your skincare regimen? Do you have a favorite product you can't live without? Let us know so we aren't missing out!

My New Obsession: FabFitFun

We're finally back in the groove following the long Labor Day weekend. Kelley enjoyed some time at the beach, and we went to Atlanta with some friends for the Alabama game. It was an ugly win, but a win just the same!

I'm excited to tell you about my newest obsession...

Have you heard of FabFitFun yet?? Giuliana Rancic is involved, so you know it has to be fabulous!

It's similar to Birchbox, but I think it's way better. Each season (so, four times a year), you get a box filled with the latest and greatest in health and beauty products. And, they're all FULL SIZE products! No more samples laying around the house. I love that it's only four times a year. With Birchbox, I could never use all the samples in one box before I got another in the mail.

And, you can subscribe to their emails or visit their website (they tipped me off to the leaked Adele songs yesterday!) to get great tips on healthy eating, stress relief, new workouts, beauty must-haves, and much more.

Each box is valued at over $200, but costs you just $49.99 per quarter. That may seem like a lot, but in the summer box alone, I received a full-size Sonya Dakar Flash Facial, which retails for $95. Gwyneth Paltrow is a fan of Sonya Dakar's products, and she has some of the most gorgeous skin around!

The summer box came with the following:

1. Slimfast Have Your Cake...Meal Bar: This protein bar is part of the Slimfast 14-Day Slimdown program. It's supposed to taste like vanilla cake with frosting and sprinkles. I can't wait to try it! The bars aren't sold individually, but a box will cost you about $5.50.

2. POPchips: These are like popcorn and chips combined! They're not fried or baked; they're actually popped. They're only 100-130 calories per bag! They cost about $1.30/bag.

3. FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle: You can add flavors like cucumber, mint, strawberry, etc. to your water with this bottle! There is a little compartment in the middle of the bottle where you add the flavor so it infuses your water. It retails for $15.

4. Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch/Makeup Bag: This little canvas makeup bag is just adorable. It retails for $35. 

5. Always Xtra Protection Long Daily Liners: These panty liners are supposed to keep you fresh and dry because they're 5x drier than regular Always Thin liners. They retail for $1.50.

6. Zoya Nail Polish: This coral color polish is perfect for summer/early fall. It sells for $9.00. 

7. pur~lisse pur~protect SPF 30: This is an anti-aging moisturizer with SPF 30. It was recently featured in Vogue as the Editor's Favorite Summer Product. It retails for $55.

8. Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil: I can't wait to try this! It helps tame flyaways and frizz, which are always a problem for me! It retails for $25.

9. Skintimate Shave Gel: This shave gel smells delicious! And, it's a perfect size for travel. It retails for $1.99

10. KISSTIXX Lip Balm: These are hilarious to me. There are two different flavors in the pack that are supposed to mix perfectly together whenever you kiss. You put on one flavor and give your smooching partner the other, then taste the peaches and cream! They retail for $5.99

11. Sonya Dakar Flash Facial: I'm excited about trying this product. It's a 1-minute facial that's supposed to be great for all skin types. Like I said earlier, it retails for $95!

If I were to buy all these products individually, I would have spent $250! 

So, if you're into new beauty/health/lifestyle products, you should definitely check out FabFitFun. The next shipment is for their fall box, and I'm sure it will be to die for!

What do you think? Have you tried it out yet? 

This is not a sponsored post. I just wanted to let y'all know about FFF because I love it and thought you might enjoy it too!

DIY Gel Nails :: Update

If you missed the how-to on our at-home DIY gel nails manicure, you'll definitely want to check it out after you see how my mani stayed in place for a full seven days!  Since it worked so well, I knew I had to update so y'all could see for yourself...

It wasn't until Day 7 that I had even one tiny chip.  You can see it on the corner of my pointer finger on the Day 7 photo.  I really couldn't believe how well our tutorial worked and how long it lasted, and will absolutely be using this method all the time.  I love a good salon mani, but this will be my go-to method for when I can't get to the salon and don't want to fork out the dough.

I'll also point out that a good top coat is essential - so make sure to check out what we used on the DIY tutorial!

Have you guys used our tutorial?  If so, send us your pictures!  We'd love to show off y'alls manicures!  Do you have any tips or tricks to making your mani last?

Link Love

1  ::  I could totally see this stool working in a multitude of rooms (indoor + outdoor!).
2  ::  This bathroom redo is spot on.

3  ::  This recipe looks so fresh delicious - perfect for summer.
4  ::  Absolutely love this lamp finial and it comes in lots of colors!
5  ::  Loving this cozy living room with its amazing gallery wall.

6  ::  DIY gel nails at home with no UV light required.  Sign us up!
7  ::  I'm going to find a way to use this pendant in our house.
8  ::  How gorgeous is this beauty?!

9  ::  Is it bad that I want to make one of these for myself?
10  ::  This stuff works wonders and I use it every day.

Happy Monday!

What's In My Virtual Shopping Cart?

I'm a big believer in online shopping. I rarely go shopping unless it's to a local shop where I can't purchase online. It's just so much easier to have everything delivered right to my door. Plus, it makes for a nice surprise when I get home from work!

Here are some of my recent online purchases...

Via Birchbox

Benefit They're Real! Mascara: I love this mascara. A friend told me about it after I asked if she was wearing false lashes (she wasn't). On a daily basis, I usually just use one coat for a more natural look. But, you can really glam it up with two or three coats. This mascara makes your lashes look full and long!

Via Nordstrom

Sole Goddess Blister Protection Foot Balm: "Killer shoes don't have to kill your feet." I bought this for my wedding rehearsal and wedding day. I, for one, am totally miserable if my feet are hurting; it just ruins everything. This balm is supposed to create a protective barrier to prevent blisters and rubbing. And, it's not sticky and doesn't ruin your shoes. I will be rubbing this all over my feet come next weekend!

Via Kirribilla

Kirribilla Whitney Dress: I have been DYING for this dress since last summer; I just couldn't bring myself to spend the money. So, as soon as it went on sale, I jumped. It's so pretty in person, and I love a peplum. I'm thinking about wearing it to my bridesmaids' luncheon and on our honeymoon. 

Via Zappos

Crocs Ballerina Estiva: You read that right...CROCS! I never thought I would buy a pair of Crocs, but these were too cute (and comfy!) to pass up. These are part of the Crocs Stefano Furiani Collection...they actually don't even have the word Crocs anywhere on the shoe, and the box just says Stefano Furiani. But, these babies are so comfortable and lightweight! I got these because I needed some comfy flats to wear on our honeymoon. I've already worn these to work a few times, and they're like walking on air. While I'll never buy the Crocs potato-looking shoes, I am sold on these!

Via Beryll c/o TODAY Show Steals and Deals

Beryll Canvas Tote Bag: Have you heard about the TODAY Show's Steals and Deals? I'm absolutely obsessed. Every few weeks, they feature insane deals on all kinds of goodies. For example, this tote bag retails for $485 on beryll.com; I got it for $70 on Steals and Deals. You can follow TODAY on Facebook to find out when the deals are going on...they only last 24 hours. 

What were some of your fave purchases lately? Did anything on my list catch your eye?

Summer Fragrance

REMINDER: Don't forget to enter the Wicks & Willow Giveaway!

For several years, my everyday perfume has been Chanel Chance Eau Fraiche.  But since summer is practically here in Montgomery, I wanted to switch it up and go for something a bit lighter and with a few more floral notes.  Enter Clinique Happy In Bloom!

It's a beautiful scent that has sweetness to it, without being sicky sweet.  I want to smell like a lady, not a tween (or a teen. or Miley Cyrus).

Happy In Bloom is a seasonal scent, so they only come out with a specific number of bottles and once they're out, that's it.  I tried getting some last year and they ran out, so when I needed new perfume over the weekend I knew exactly which counter I was headed to first.  And luckily they had it in stock!

Have you tried Clinique Happy In Bloom?  Do you switch up your scents with the seasons, or do you have a signature scent?

Don't miss out on the Wicks & Willow giveaway!  And be sure to tell your friends  :)

Nail Polish Colors :: Summer 2014

I love getting my nails done and painting my own nails different colors.  Winter colors are great, but the spring and summer colors are by far more fun!  So, since summer is almost upon us (especially here in the South) I thought we could talk about some fun colors to dress up your nails.

I'm a huge fan of pinks and reds, but during the summer I think it's fun to mix it up with blues, greens, purples and yellows!  These colors are sure to be a statement...

1  //  2  //  3  //  4  //  5  //  6  //  7

REMINDER: Make sure to enter our Stately Made giveaway here!  Jordan is offering Z+M readers a 20% discount in her shop through May 13 when you use the promotional code ZANDMBLOG. Entering is easy, so don't miss out!

A Few of My Favorite Things, Part 2

I am so excited to share a few of my (current) favorite things!  If you missed Maeci's favorite things post yesterday, be sure to check it out!  Let's dive right in...

1.  Rodan + Fields Redefine Daily Cleansing Mask - If you followed me over at The Eclectic Owl, then you probably saw a recent post of mine on my favorite beauty products, and this absolutely made the list.  It's a little pricey, but a little goes a long way!  Plus, I use mine a few times a week alternating with my everyday cleanser (although, you could certainly use this as your everyday cleanser!).  It has made my skin look and feel amazing; it's softer and my pores are visibly smaller.  Just take my word for it and purchase immediately.

2.  Fossil Sydney Top Zip Crossbody Bag (in Camel) - I had been on the hunt for a great camel/cognac color smaller cross body bag.  I wanted one that I could still fit my hobo wallet in if needed, but that wasn't bulky and heavy.  This bag is perfection!  The color is beautiful and the inside has a zipper pocket, credit card holders and another open pocket.  The straps can also be completely removed so it can be used as a clutch.  Boom!

3.  One King's Lane Medallion Duvet Set (in Periwinkle) - Ok, let me just say that this was was my first purchase from One King's Lane and I will  definitely be purchasing again!  The duvet arrived super fast and they even added a thank you note along with my own set of cute thank you notes to use.  The duvet is a soft cotton, but it's durable as well.  The color is more of a cornflower blue and not periwinkle.  It's currently in our master bedroom and we absolutely love it (ok, I love it - I don't think Zach has a preference).  It's paired with these West Elm euro shams and this pillow (adorable, right? gah, maybe I should have added the pillow to this list!).

4.  Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette - I had been hinting (read: begging) for this palette for my birthday and my sweet momma delivered (technically, the UPS man delivered).  The colors are absolutely beautiful shades of rose golds that blend wonderfully together.  The eye shadows are high quality and I'm actually thinking about getting either the Naked or Naked 2 palette to add to my collection (I use Urban Decay's "Sin" color almost every day with a few of the Naked 3 colors).  The Naked 3 palette also came with a sample pack of four of the primers. I will absolutely be purchasing the original primer once I'm done squeezing the last bits out of the samples.

5.  Essie 'Splash of Grenadine' Nail Polish - This has been my go-to color for a few years now.  It's summery with a bit of pink, but not too much.  I almost always have it on my toes in the spring and summer months, and I always get compliments on the color.  So go buy it and be a cool kid like me.

6.  Stephanie Creekmur 'Hey y'all' Print - I can't even express to you how much I love this print.  I purchased several during Christmas time to give as gifts and made sure to keep one for myself (I give the best gifts).  Stephanie had it sent so quickly and there was a handwritten note inside the package when it arrived.  I'm a sucker for good customer service.  Mine currently hangs near our front door for guests to see as they walk in.  I just love having this sweet Southern saying in our home!

So, that's all of my favorite things.  For now.  I'm sure I'll have 15 new things by next week. Happy Thursday!