Makeup!

Okay.  I am not a beauty blogger.  Obviously.  I do, however, want to share with you this new find that kinda rocks my world.  Don't you want to have your world kinda rocked, too?  Dontcha?  (Now I have that unfortunate Pussycat Dolls song in my head.) 

I first read about this beauty balm (those in the know apparently call them BB Creams) on XOJane.  Cat, who is the most whacked out beauty editor I've ever read, showed me the light.  Seriously, reading her is like knowing what a modern-day Studio 54 feels like.  But then you get addicted (at least I did) and her stories are always the first I click on, if only because she lives a life SO FAR from my own it's like seeing the world from the other side.  She's my own personal rabbit hole.

ANYWAY.

Tangent.

Back to the beauty.  So, this Dr. Jart Beauty Balm (BB Cream!) claims to be MANY things in one.  [If it's not even true, I don't care.  It makes me feel like I'm doing amazing things in one fell swoop.]  This is what Sephora has to say about it:

A moisturizer, sunscreen, and treatment serum, this all-in-one product also includes advanced brightening properties. Ideal under makeup, its natural looking coverage minimizes the appearance of imperfections and evens the skin tone. Antioxidant bio-peptides and adenosine protect skin from harsh environmental factors while restoring firmness and elasticity.

Okay, all that jargon aside, all it basically means is that it cut my morning routine IN HALF.  I used to use a serum (truth be told, I only use the serum when I'm feeling bougie and am near my sink -- this doesn't happen in any sort of regular pattern), moisturizer, sunscreen, and a powder/make-up base.  Now I wash, maybe use serum (if feeling bougie), throw on some of this beauty balm and I'm ready to go...   put the rest of my makeup on.  [Have I mentioned how I have a blush problem?]  No more waiting for the moisturizer to sink in before I add the sunscreen before I have to wait for that sink in -- you see what I mean?  

The BB cream plus some translucent powder makes for the perfect base.  It's not too oily and blends well with my coloring.  Disclaimer: I'm afraid this might only work for the fair ladies.  I am beyond the pale (who gets this reference?) and it works well for me.

On the not so nice side: I don't like the pump.  It isn't consistent and I wonder what will happen when it gets near the empty-side of things.  There is another version of this beauty balm on Sephora that doesn't have the pump, but sports a lower SPF.  I might go for that one next time and blame my future wrinkles on that damn pump. 

And, as a last (and possibly racist) thought, these BB creams are all the rage in and hail from Korea.  And we ALL know that Koreans have the bestest skin evah.  I'll take every and any thing they'd like to bestow upon me, BB creams very much included.      
 

Outfit Tuesdays: Raring to Go.

Raring to Go. by justagirlandherstuff featuring leather heels

A little business.  A little sass.  ALL OF THE ABOVE.

Come Again Another Day.

Is it terrible that I wish it would rain, so I'd have a reason to purchase this beautiful and swingy rain coat?  I'm sure everyone in the path of Irene does not feel the same way, and I surely do not mean any disrespect by posting it. 

Sorry I was MIA on Friday.  I waited too long and didn't have anything for you guys, my bad. 

found via pinterest

History.

Yes.  Yes, I used to listen to Train.  I only bring up this embarrassing fact because I was with my best friend from high school last night and it made me think of this.  It's great that you can have friends that know you used to listen to Train (and totally rock out to Train [and by totally rock out I mean play loudly and sing along to on your car stereo]), but will love you forever anyway.  Lauren is one of those girls. 

There is nothing better than hanging with someone who knows your history better than you do.  It makes you feel grounded in a way that other people can't and it's especially thrilling when you don't live close to said friends.

Here's to history and memories and forever friendships!

image found via pinterest -- thanks, sami! 

Make It Your Own.

It's so hard to differentiate yourself among all the wedding din.  The engagement photos, the wedding photos, the shoulds and woulds and coulds.  You know what I'm talking about.  Somehow this couple managed to do something I've never seen before and it put a big smile on my face.

After the jump see how these engagement photos aren't your regular fare.

Outfit Tuesdays: Water Lilies.

Water Lilies. by justagirlandherstuff featuring a silver pearl ring

Blue and orange: too much like a football team?  I was kind of drawn to it and I'm never drawn to orange.  Isn't it weird how we all have such specific color preferences?  Well, I guess that isn't weird.  Just normal.  But.  You know.  

And, I know this dress doesn't actually have water lilies, but it reminded me of them.  


And scene. 

Frye in the Fall.

These boots are beautiful!  I can't decide which color I like more.  I love how they're distressed, but not too beaten up and not so adorned it's distracting. 

You guys, fall is coming.  Eeeep!  Let's soak up the sun while we can!

Also: Sorry for the weirdo zoom button in the bottom right-hand corner.  I didn't even try to get rid of it. 

Weekend!

Does anyone know this image?  I pinned it and someone called it a painting.  The original is from tumblr (aka the original source will never be found).  I LOVE it and would kill for my own print or something of the like, so if you have any leads let me know!

Happy Friday, friends!  I was out and about a lot this week, which makes me one tired girl.  [When did I become such a grandma?]  I'm planning on a little putt putt [Thanks, Andrew!], aka mini golf, this weekend.  Wish me luck -- I've never been very good at the short game (not that I've ever played the long game).

How about you?  What are y'all up to? 

Friday Links:

• This video made me laugh out loud yesterday.  You've probably seen it, but it's just as good the second time.   
• Amber and David are engaged!  She's always been one of my favorites.  Joan of Arcadia, anyone?
• How to have your very own TGIF night.  Seriously, who doesn't miss that line-up!
• Let's make this perfect summer dessert.
• Speaking of Liv Tyler... it doesn't get prettier than this.
• The Cat Scan.  Kelly found the greatest tumblr: cats on scanners.

Rockers Wanted.

These shoes are badass. 

That Thing You Do!

YOU GUYS.  Remember how fantastically delightful That Thing You Do! was?  Rememmmmmmber?  I'm now wondering why I don't own this movie because it will forever be the Ultimate Always Pick-Me-Up.

The Oneders!  I still laugh thinking about how no one could pronounce that name correctly and how exasperated Steve Zahn's character was over it.  Hence, The Wonders.  "As in, I wonder what happened to the O’Needers?" 

Whatever happened to Tom Everett Scott?  Because he was a Dreamy McDreamboat.  Come on, that speech he gives to Liv Tyler?!  The one where he tells her she's beautiful and amazing and doesn't have to take Jimmy's shit (okay, maybe I don't really remember the specifics that well, but you know what I'm talkin bout).  Melt my heart forever. 

And, I don't know how I missed this all these years, but Tom Hanks WROTE IT!  Uhhh, what?!  I knew that he directed it, but somehow missed that very useful piece of trivial knowledge. 

My love for Tom Hanks knows no bounds.  There, I said it.    

Do you guys feel as strongly about TTYD as I do?  What other movies hold such a strong place in your heart?  I'm always looking for good movies to watch.

Outfit Tuesdays: Under the Pink.

Under the Pink. by justagirlandherstuff featuring tote handbags

Who doesn't want a pair of pink pants?  Juxtaposed with a little caramel and mustard, this outfit makes me a happy girl.  

In related news: Who wants to buy me a Michael Kors watch? 

Beauty at its best.

This is still one of my all-time favorite looks.  Girl has never looked better.  Well, maybe that mustard dress she wore at the Oscars with Heath Ledger.  Remember how beautiful and glowing she was that night?  

We all forget the daisy dress, Michelle.  We all forget!

Happy Weekend!

I would love to go somewhere quiet and stare at the stars this weekend.  I would love to do that almost every weekend.  Wouldn't a once a month mini-getaway be fantastic?  Why oh why don't I have a vacation home???  My life = HARD. 

What are you guys up to this weekend?  Tell me, tell me. 

Friday Links:

• This strawberry balsamic flatbread looks insanely delicious.  
• Makeup tips for girls with glasses.  Definitely appreciated, I've never mastered this when I manage to leave the house with my specs. 
• I will never tire of chevron. 
• Lucille Ball would have been 100 last Saturday.  Who doesn't love Lucy?
• Practical Magic will FOREVER be one of my favorite movies. 
• I keep thinking about this lady and how she looks fantastic, yet so simple.

image via pinterest

Dorothy, Eat Your Heart Out.

The little girl in me SQUEALS every time I see these.  How absolutely ridiculous and fantastic all at the same time! 

I don't even want to know how much they cost. 

found via glitter guide

Fear.

I don't want this for my future.  I should remember that.

**Sorry, I was really struggling on the blogging front last night... obviously.

found via i can read

Outfit Tuesdays: Short Stuff.

Short Stuff. by justagirlandherstuff featuring bangle bracelets

I want to wear this RIGHT NOW.  I like how the tassels on the bag mirror the tie around the shorts.  And those shoes kill me!  Rachel Comey always has such amazing stuff.  Plus, the colors just make me feel so cozy.  Warm and cozy, yet cool at the same time.  Well, well, well.     

I Love Ice Loves Coco.

What an unexpected feeling, who knew I would become so attached to people I know so little?

I adore Ice T.  I adore Coco.

Appearing to have the most loving and trusting relationship, they just seem to compliment each other so well!  And who knew Coco would be such a sweetheart?  She's hilarious in that I'm-so-kooky-but-don't-know-it kind of way, which is totally endearing.  It's refreshing to see someone so comfortable in their own skin and not use it in a way to be demeaning to others.  And Ice T just likes to eat sandwiches his lady prepares while making hilarious comments on the side.  This is, of course, when he's not being a total badass on Law and Order: SVU.

E Television just aired the first season finale, so I'm sure there will be thousands of reruns to watch, otherwise you can just take my word for it that these two are what love looks like.

I'm gonna say it: they are the best reality show couple ever!  Have you guys seen it?  Do you agree?

Murder for Two - A Killer Musical.

I'm just popping in to say that if you live in or near Chicago you MUST. SEE. THIS. SHOW!  It's endlessly entertaining and my cheeks were literally in pain because I was laughing and smiling so much throughout the entire thing. 

Joe Kinosian (also the co-creator and all-around fabulous guy) and Alan Schmuckler are out of this world in this fantastic murder mystery musical.  They dance!  They sing!  They BOTH PLAY THE PIANO! 

Alan Scmuckler plays a detective called upon a crime scene where Joe Kinosian plays ALL NINE other characters.  For reals.  It's supah impressive.  Their chemistry is palpable and their talent undeniable; it's a wonderful delight for all.

If you don't like to have a good time, then this isn't the thing for you.  But if you're a normal person with a heartbeat -- just go see the damn thing already! 

image: Liz Lauren

Paradise.

I want to go to there. 

Could you imagine lying in a hammock just slightly above the water this weekend?  Wouldn't that be divine?  Alas, it is not meant to be. 

However it is supposed to be in the mid to low eighties all weekend and that I will take!  Maybe I'll manage to get some lake time in because I have been woefully remiss in my lake time this summer.  When you live so close to it it just becomes one of those things... "Oh, I'll have plenty of time to get down there this summer."  Well, now it's August and I've run out of my excuses.  To the lake I go. 

What do y'all have planned for this weekend?  Anything fun?  I'd love to live vicariously. 

I thought I'd also share some links again.  I know a lot of other people do that; is it annoying that I do, too? 

• The world is a small, weird little place!  A top secret note left behind in an apartment is found. 
• I can't lie, I am more than nervous about the idea of a Friday Night Lights movie.  Can't we all just let a good thing go?
• Ooooo, these will rock your penny-saving, IKEA-buying worlds!
• Snail mail my email, please. 
• Dear Sugar ALWAYS makes me cry.  Luckily I was alone in my office when I read this one. 
• Hey, Chicago! Have you guys heard of Dabble?

Happy weekend, friends!

image found via pinterest

Socks and Boots.

Damn, girl.  Lookin' good!  Who knew that a sweater thrown casually over a dress could look so good?  Plus, socks with boots!  (Mental note: buy light, breezy sweaters for layering this fall.)

I adore this outfit.  And it really makes me wish this mega-heat would chill out.  Literally.  You can purchase the above items from ShopBop, but, so you know, the sweater alone costs $300.  Yeah, I know. 

In other news, I decided to bleach my own eyebrows the other night.  Eeep!  It was really bothering me that my eyebrows were so distinctly a different color from my hair, so I decided to take it into mah own hands.  Like a boss. 

Uh.  The results are... interesting.  I knew I was being a greedy girl when I went in for the double bleach, but I thought "just a little longer can't hurt."  Nooow, they aren't blonde or anything -- they're just, um, light. 

I must tell you that I am happier with them this way than I was with the real deal (I am!) and with a lil' ginger-oriented eyebrow pencil it's like I'm an AU NATUREL redhead*. 

I swear.

*If an au naturel redhead has obviously dyed hair, of course.   

A Simple Beauty.

Isn't this lariat simple and beautiful?  I don't normally blog about jewelry because I don't really wear much (if any) and it doesn't seem to ever pop out at me.  But this one certainly did. 

In fact, everything in this boutique, Hallelu, is fabulous.  I've been meaning to tell you about it, but have it bookmarked on my work computer so always forget about it when I'm blogging at home.  And it's all quite affordable. 

Seriously.  Hop on over and just try to not fall in love. 

Frugal Outfit Tuesdays: For the Birds.

For the Birds. by justagirlandherstuff featuring stud earrings

You know how sometimes you just can't seem to pull an outfit together?  Well, today was one of those days.  Just trying to be honest.  

Pink is my favorite color.

Hot pink lace and leather?  Sold!  This is a perfect night on the town bag. 

Also: Thanks for all the sweet words about my hair, friends.  You guys are the best!

found via anabela's pinterest