Summer Beauty

 In these hot months my beauty routine has to make some changes. My skin is over exposed and less is more for surviving the heat. 

I often refer to myself as a 'DIY Groomer' meaning I may get a manicure and pedicure once a year, I get 3 trims to my mane a year and I've only been to a spa a few times ever. I do my own makeup, hair, skin and nails. I don't like spending the money (I prefer to see it in my closet!) or the time and quite honestly I'm happy with my own skills. 

Here are some Summer beauty products I use and love ...

SELF TANNER

I can NOT live without this. I glow in the dark without it. 

The only color my natural skin has is billions of freckles. 

I only use it on my legs & apply it after shaving with my hands.

BODY SCRUB

I use this prior to shaving.

RED ORANGE NAIL POLISH

Essie Clambake was my #1 color and devastatingly it's discontinued.

I've since been using color Geranium (coincidentally was my Grandma's favorite flower) 

FACE SUNSCREEN

I love this because it's truly colorless, smooth and light.

MATTE POWDER

this truly sets my makeup and controls shine all day

This is new to me this year & I'm committed.

FACE TAN DROPS

I added these this Summer and plan to use them all year long.

My face Never Ever is exposed to sun so I've lost my freckles and it's always lighter than the rest of me.

I add these drops to my moisturizer at night and wake up with color! 

Dress Your Summer Beauty Routine Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Miss New Beauty

Make up is fun for me. I like to try new colors & products. I find that taking care of your skin along with adding color to your face is an essential part of your overall appearance. I adjust the shades of eyeshadow, lipstick and blush that I wear to compliment my outfit and season (but not too much - I'm a creature of habit).

Here are some new beauty products I've been wearing lately ...

NAVY EYELINER - I remember my Mama wearing navy eyeliner, I think it was because Princess Diana wore it.  I picked this one up on a whim and have really liked wearing it.  I keep the line dark and thin.

FACE TANNING DROPS - these are awesome! For decades my face has been hidden from the sun with sunscreen & hats so not only have my millions of freckles faded but its natural fair color is very bright! I add a drop of this to my face lotion at night and wake up with a bronzed glow! 

I find this allows me to feel more confident being bare faced.

Tips: wash hands immediately - I avoid my T zone - use makeup remover for any concentrated areas.

FACE MASK - I started using this Clarins face mask last year and decided to try this one on a recent sale promotion. It's amazing! It's cooling and really refreshes the face. I apply this in the mornings.

FACE SERUM - I also started this and find it moisturizes, adds glow and is healthy.

REDNESS SERUM - I have redness around my nose and chin and have always been bothered by it.  I've been using this for a while now and find it really helps!

PINK LIPSTICK - I'm very inspired by the show Palm Royale's 60's style.  The fashion is so colorful and the makeup has such a cool retro look. I was on the hunt to replicate the frosty light pink lipstick and found this one in shade Gentlemen Prefer Pink on a random trip to CVS! 

As with fashion, I'm always excited for new pretty things to try.

I encourage you to incorporate a new color or skin care product to your routine for summer!

Dress Your Face Beautifully 

XOXO Sarah Louise

Dyson Air Wrap

 Gals, I have wanted this Dyson Airwrap since it first came out! It's been on my Christmas list for several years and each time I take it off because it's so pricey. This past year my hair suffered heat damage and had some significant breakage so I was eager to have it at the top of my wish list! 

Significant Note: My hair is my crown of glory!

It is my most favorite thing about my appearance

and I wear it big and high (closer to heaven).

After about 3 months of learning how to style my hair with 'air', I've got the hang of it. 

STEP 1

Start with hair that has air dried at least half way. I take this time to do my make up, make breakfast, tidy my home, you get the idea.

I use the comb attachment for a fairly straight blow out look.

Using sections of hair (I have a ton!), keep the tool moving through as you dry it into style.

STEP 2

For the top of my hair, I use the round brush attachment for a soft, high and voluminous look. 

CURLS

For the curling attachment, there are two size options for the wrap barrels. This works best when hair is damp and the air 'DRYS' it into a curled style away from your face. The curls are not like the ones you'll get from a curling iron. They are softer and have more of a blown out/hot rolled look. They do not hold a tight shape all day. I find that it's more natural looking.

I was able to purchase at a big discount during a Black Friday sale.

Tip: shop around holidays for a discount!

I know that this is a splurge item BUT as always Dyson is #1 in my book! I have 4 vacuum items and the same quality and performance I love from them, I love in this hair styler! I believe it will last for many years.

I recently had my hair trimmed and my hairdresser noticed a big difference in overall health!

Your hair is something you wear every single day.

Take care of it and style it beautifully! 

DYSON AIRWRAP

Dress Your Hair Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday Favorites: Thing I've Bought & Love

TGIF!! It's REALLY GOOD ONE for me as I'm away for a girls' weekend!! 

Today I'm sharing some things I've purchased recently and happy I did so ...

HEIRLOOM ROOMS

This book is full of sentiment & the 'real' beauty of home

DE-PUFFING FACE MASK

I've been using this in the mornings and it's amazing!

UNDER EYE BALM

this feels so cooling and brightens!

HOT ROLLERS

these are great for quick soft volume

although I'd like a few more for my thick mane

SLEEVELESS SWEATER

this is only the 2nd garment I've purchased on amazon that I've liked

which say a lot! 

available in 19 colors 

OLIVE CHINO

this fit so comfortably!

Target hasn't impressed me clothes in so long but these are great

SWEATSHIRT

great price

CHUNKY GOLD NECKLACE

This one was on display in the store and sold me

I typically wear dainty jewelry but I find this one a nice statement against

TENNIS NECKLACE

I wear this one ALL the time! 

MUSCLE TOP

I have 2 of these and great for exercising

JEANS

classic straight leg - dark wash

SWEATER

4 colors

SILVER JACKET

I'm obsessed with silver this season!

Dress Beautifully with Thing You Love

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday Favorites: Makeup

 TGIF! This week was another special one full of Summer fun.  The highlight was definitely having my Mamma visit our home which included a sleepover in our newly (almost complete) decorated guest room that was full of giggles! 

Growing up my Mamma always put her face on each morning. It was part of presenting herself for the day  in a polished and colorful way. I take after her when it comes to style and beauty (and countless other ways!!).

Here are the make up products I wear and love ...

Eye Primer - I've used this one for years now and it really provides a base with coverage and holds my shadows all day with no creasing or smearing

Eye Shadow Palette - These colors are neutral with a mix of shimmers and mattes that really make eyes pop

Face Primer - This is a new one to me and it was love at first use! First, it smells so so good! It's smooth and really. holds my foundation and other products together on my face all day.

Foundation - This one is the BEST I've ever worn. It also smells so good and very creamy and natural looking.

Under Eye Concealer - I've been using this one for years. I use the tiniest amount and it lasts for over a year!

Finishing Powder - I use this one on my T-zone only. It holds my makeup together and reduces shine.

Bronzer - This is a cream and I don't think I can ever go back to a powder. It's a great color that compliments even my fair skin for a more natural look. I press it into my skin under the cheekbones, sides of my forehead and nose. And it also smells good :)

Blush - I've tried a lot! I prefer an orange color and one that saturated that stays all day. This one does just that with just a tiny bit of product. And it's a fabulous price and will last since you need so little.

Highlighter - This one is new to me and has a beautiful luster but I'm still deciding on how much I love it. It has a unique shimmer and there are several shades to try.  I've used this one for the past few years.

Eyebrow - If I wear nothing, I at least color my eyebrows in! This pencil is great and a great price. It's challenging to find one in an auburn color.

Eyeliner - I use this pencil daily. It's a good rich warm brown that makes my eyes pop but in a soft way. I still love liquid liner as it was my go-to for ages but now I save it for evenings and stand out occasions.

Brightening Liner - I added this product for my lower water line this year and it's magic! It brightens my eyes and face.  Its a nude color which is more subtle that others that are white. 

Mascara - Gracious I've tried a lot and this one is the winner! It's not dry or clumpy and really lengthens.

Lipstick - I'm a traditional tube of color gal! I like saturated color that lasts. This one is a mix between traditional lipstick and a stain. It is long wearing without being dry. 

Setting Spray - I swear by this. Add a few sprays and your makeup will last all day long!

All of these products I use in small amounts and last for 9 months to years! 

As pretty as make up is, my Mamma reminded me of this ...

The best cosmetic you can wear, is your smile!

Dress Beautifully Smiling in Your Makeup

XOXO Sarah Louise

Warm Weather Beauty

 Gals, there's a lot of things I do in the warm weather that I don't have to do in the cold.  Down here in the South we have more hot days than any other type of days and my fair (more like glow in the dark) skin needs color & protection from color. I alter my beauty routine for a more functional, lighter and sun kissed appearing look. 

Here's what I use ...

Nail Polish - Geranium

You'll find this bright orange red color on my fingers and toes all Summer long!

Tanning Lotion

There are so many tanning products out there and it makes me so happy!

Real color isn't an option for my freckly skin so I smear this lotion on after shaving about 2 times a week.

I only use it on my legs to soften the glow!

I've been using this one for years now and like that it is tinted so I can see as I apply. 

It seems there are new mouses, drops and creams launching each season so do your research.

I tend to stick with the same products for a long time.

Sugar Scrub

I use this before I shave my legs and every now and then all over my body.

It helps for my faux tanning lotion to apply evenly too!

It comes in a whole bunch of scents.

Sunscreen

I love the tinted glow sunscreen for my face! It adds just the right amount of color & luster.

The clear and body sunscreens are amazing too. I believe in sunscreen 100%!! It's first, of upmost importance for your health and secondly for maintaining a youthful appearance. 

Baked Powder Make Up

I recently added this intentionally for Summer beauty.

I like a much lighter face in the heat. These powders are smooth and light while still adding color.

A quick brush on and go. I'll add eyebrow pencil, mascara, lipstick and done!

Dress Up Your Beauty Routine Beautifully in the Spring & Summer

XOXO Sarah Louise

Higher the Hair, Closer to Heaven

Gals, I like big hair! Like really big. Think Dolly Parton ... but skip the bangs. I had bangs my whole life until college & it was never a good look. 

The trick to achieving a voluminous look of soft curls is hot rollers. My Mamma started using them in high school and in fact is still using the same set from Sears.  I too began rolling my hair in high school. 

But, it was actually my Grandma that taught me how to roll my mane. I truly am a picture of the women I came from in my faith, style and personality.

My Hot Rollers

I put them in and apply my makeup or do other tasks while they set/cool.

Tip: Velcro rollers are also great for adding volume.

 After setting apply some heat from the blowdryer let cool and voila!

Here are the product I use to coif (more like tame) my mane ...

Shampoo & Conditioner - I only wash my hair every 4-5 days. I shampoo the roots and condition a bit over half on the bottom.  I've wanted to try these products for a couple years and after a few weeks I can say they are wonderful.

Bonding Oil - I apply this to damp hair. Just a dab. I really do think it decreases frizz and adds shine.

Styling Cream - I've been using this one for several years. I apply a quarter size amount before blowdrying to the bottom half of my hair.

Hairspray - I've used this one for at least 10 years. 

Dry Shampoo - I apply this at night to my roots on the 2nd or 3rd day after washing. I wake up with revitalized hair with more volume.

Volume Spray - I use this on day 3-4 to zhoosh up my style. 

Note: my hair is typically much larger but it had been 6 days since washing!

Dress Your Hair Big & Beautifully

XOXO Sarah Louise

Friday Favorites: All the Things

 TGIF! Gals, there is no slowing down for us this Summer. We are filling nearly every weekend with a trip and weekday with slashing at the pool. The best part of all the Summer fun we are having is sharing it with our friends!

Here are some of my favorite things from my travels, I've worn, found on sale, use and enjoy from day to day. It's a bit random but just maybe one will make it to your list of favorites.

Denim Jacket

I wore this one a lot in San Francisco

I love the soft fabric, modern distressing, shorter sleeve length and 

puff sleeves for a fashionable feminine touch!

Distressed Jeans 

on sale this weekend

Mother is my favorite brand for denim and this pair is not only comfortable but chic and modern.

These do run small so size up.

Sandals

I found these shopping at Neiman Marcus in SF.

They come in several colors but the bright orange spoke to me (pink was my second choice)

I like the more pointed toe (not a fan of the trending square)

and soft leather top band that's not too thick & wide

Ferragamo

One of my all time favorite designers for nearly 15 years!

I have this classic Vera shoe in 4 colors and I fell in love with this pale pink pair the moment I saw them.

I didn't purchase but they're on my wish list.

Embroidered Green Skirt

I got to see the brand Maje in person at the Saks Fifth Avenue in SF

It's now a top favorite. Pretty pieces & great quality

I brought home this skirt.

Wristlet

Perfect for going out and about with ease 

Holds everything you need: phone, cards, lipstick

Puff Sleeve Top

this one is more like a tee. Super soft bodice with casual henley neckline

but with crisp puff sleeves to add a dressy touch

I bought in white & lavender - also in navy

Smocked Flowy Shorts

I recently picked these up on sale and gals they feel like you're not wearing anything at all

From every day at home to nights out these are a winner

Neutral Tunic Dress

This one just spoke to me! I love the print, detailing, shape and sleeves.

Not as casual as most tunic dresses but not too dressy either.

Perfect for hot summer days!

French Cafe

coffee/pastry/food

best little spot in San Francisco for a treat

 

Coffee Maker

we just added this one to our kitchen and we love it

It's low profile (I detest anything on our counters)

fast, delicious and honestly really cool looking

Spruce

Elegant dining in San Francisco

we celebrated our anniversary here

While I may be the farthest thing from a foodie, this was by far the most delicious (and expensive) meal I've ever had!!! 

Pajamas

I buy a pair of these a few times a year for myself and as gifts for new mothers.

Note: when traveling with others it's good to have a nice set of pajamas to wear

Doll Stroller

I Got Vivian & her cousin these doll strollers 

They're not only sweet for playing Mommy but also for taking everywhere since they fold up

Sunglasses

I liked the color on these for something different & fun.

Blush

My sister gave me this and while it looks super bright it wears beautifully!

It's the prettiest pink.

Necklace

these color beaded pieces are all the rage!

The Summer I Turned Pretty

I just watched this and while the focus is on teenage summer relationships

I really enjoyed the friendship between the two moms

I found this very encouraging 

Pony Tails

my sister gifted me these and I wear them Every. Single. Day.

they truly hold back ALL my mane without pulling, slipping or stretching out.

Dress Beautifully in All the Things

XOXO Sarah Louise