Style & Beauty

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is probably the BIGGEST sale of the year for high-quality, name brand items. Since we don't have a Nordstrom in Orlando, I had to do all my shopping online... in my PJs... #firstworldproblems.

When I first saw what was on sale, I really had to tame myself because I WANTED EVERYTHING. Literally. We just booked a trip to Denver for New Years and I had to stop myself from buying every piece of winter wear I saw. After all, I do live in Florida where Christmas day is usually 75 degrees.

Below are my top picks for the sale. Everything is selling out VERY fast as this is the first day of the public access part of the sale. I would move quick before it's too late! Shop now.

Click links to shop:




Bottom Left: Deborah Lippman Polish Set / Bottom Middle: Nordstrom Pajamas / Bottom Right: Tory Burch Crossbody Purse 

Reviews on the items I've purchased:

1. Nordstrom Pajamas - I ordered these in the Navy Blue and they are unbelievably SOFT. Since I work from home, I am always looking for the most comfortable pair of pajamas and THESE ARE IT. I actually just ordered another pair in Heather Grey last night because I loved them so much, and at $40 they are a steal.  

2. Clarisonic Cleansing System - If you don't have the Clarisonic, what are you doing in life? Just kidding! But really, this device makes your face feel SO SO smooth. It gets rid of all those dead skin cells that honestly even the best face wash in the world can't do. Sometimes I'll wash my face with my tried and true Purity Face Wash by Philosophy (also on sale) and then go back in with my Clarisonic, and I still see makeup on the brush head that I would have not been able to remove without it!
3. Joe's Curvy Skinny Jeans - I was first introduced to this brand when I bought a pair of their jean shorts about a month ago. OH MY GOD. The material is SO freaking soft. So, it was a no-brainer when I saw these skinny jeans on sale. They are for girls with a booty, so that's a bonus!



4. Hange Wool Hat - I have ALWAYS wanted one of these hats. It's perfect to wear with black boots this fall and it fits my big head perfectly! It's also pretty structured and isn't one of those floppy hats. It keeps its form nicely. 
5. Vince Camuto Suede Bootie - I needed to upgrade my black bootie game. The ones I had were not the best. I just received these in the mail and they are so luxurious! Very soft suede and it came in a beautiful box! So excited to wear these. 

6. Faux Leather Moto Jacket - I bought this in dark green (color no longer avail.), but I spent probably a good 20 minutes trying to decide between the green or black! This black jacket is a staple and for the price, it's a steal! It looks way more expensive than it is. 



There you have it, girls! Have fun shopping!

What are your favorite picks? What fashion finds did you pick out for the #NSALE? Let me know in the comments. Happy Friday!

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A Walk on Waikiki Beach


Last month, we stayed in Hawaii for 8 nights as I spoke about the planning process in a previous post, "How I Booked an 8 Night Hawaiian Vacation for $153.52". Let me tell you how much a DREAM it was. Hawaii was (as you can guess), absolutely beautiful! I was expecting it to be gorgeous, but this was on another level and now I totally get why people travel 13+ hours on a plane to get to this heavenly place. 

We waited to go out exploring on our 2nd day there since we were so jet lagged from the flight and the time change! On our first adventurous day (on the island of Oahu), we decided to take a walk on the famous Waikiki Beach! Our plans for the day included a hike, snorkeling, beach time and sight seeing. I wanted to wear something that was comfortable, light and tropical...so I chose this AMAZING romper by TulaRosa


This romper worked out perfectly! It was so easy to wear and was very breathable. I loved the ruffles and the gorgeous lavender/purple color. I typcially don't like wearing purple, but this was kind of a pastel, so I thought it would be okay :)

I rented it from Rent the Runway on their "Unlimited Plan". The plan gives you access to 3 designer pieces at a time (you can choose from thousands of items) and you can also swap them out for new items as often as you want. I typically do the unlimited plan if I have a bunch of events to go to because it is a lot cheaper than buying a bunch of designer dresses that I won't get much use out of later on. Plus it's free shipping both ways and they dry clean everything for you! You get 20% your first month using code: FIRSTRTR20P. It's actually a much better value to do the the plan compared to renting one time from Rent the Runway. They charge you for shipping if you rent one single item and sometimes, the shipping can be around $30 (depending when you need the item). I think it's fun to wear dresses and accessories you wouldn't normally purchase because of the high price tag!


This was our view while walking along Waikiki Beach! That's the famous Diamond Head volcanic crater in the background. It was so majestic to see in person!


I paired my Amethyst Pendant Necklace and Tiny CZ Gold Necklace with the romper. I thought the natural lavender and white colors of the Amethyst pendant matched nicely with the entire look. 


You can't have a day outside in Hawaii without sunglasses AND a hat (especially for this Irish girl!). I picked up these cute rose gold & black sunnies at LOFT (currently on sale for $15) and the straw hat is by Billabong.


This was shot was taken right outside of our hotel, the Hilton Hawaiian Village on Waikiki Beach. Overall, our 2nd day in Oahu was a BLAST. I plan to write about our adventures in details soon! Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @wanderandblush for more travel photos!



3 Ways to Incorporate 'Serenity' and 'Rose Quartz' Into Your Daily Looks
Kate Spade Tote in Pink Blush  |  Steve Madden Carrson Heel in Blue Suede  |  Rose Quartz Arrowhead Necklace from W+L JewelrySky Blue & Gray Earrings from W+L Jewelry

When Pantone named Serenity and Rose Quartz the 2016 Colors of the Year, I was a little taken a back! I feel as though they totally stole that color combo from me. My wedding colors were “dusty blue” and “blush pink” and I feel like they saw my wedding, loved it and decided to take credit for my idea... ;-)

My gorgeous bouquet! Photo: Tiffani Jones

 
My bridemaids! Photo: Tiffani Jones
In all seriousness, these two colors are absolutely amazing and together they are so chic, romantic and soft. I normally like to stick to wearing neutral shades or cool tones and accessorize with a pretty color or two. That way, you don't go overboard with too much color and you are left looking chic & classy. Here are the 3 ways you can incorporate Serenity and Rose Quartz into your wardrobe:

1. Handbags

Your bag is the perfect way to add color to your look! I have the Kate Spade Tote in Pink Blush and every time I wear it, I get endless compliments because of its unique and pretty color! I also love to use it as my travel bag because you can fit pretty much anything in it! The inside has three pockets to help you organize your things and keep everything together. Below are some of my favorite picks:

Left: Loeffler Randall Saffiano Rider Bag | Middle Top: Lulus Fringe Clutch | Middle Bottom: Rebecca Minkoff Backpack in 'Bleached Blue' | Top Right: ZAC Zac Posen Eartha Mini Crossbody | Bottom Right: Kate Spade Tote in Pink Blush 


Top Left: Botkier Tote in 'Sky' | Bottom Left: Kate Spade Striped Wallet in 'Pink Blush/Cream' | Middle: Ted Baker Bow Clutch | Top Right: Kate Spade Wallet in 'Ballet Slipper' | Bottom Right: Kate Spade Cedar Street Small Hayden Bag
 
Current Sales:

A few of the bags I mentioned above are available to rent on Rent the Runway and they are currently offering 20% off your first order! They also have this amazing subscription service where you can rent unlimited clothing, bags, & accessories for a monthly flat fee. I have subscribed multiple times for the unlimited program and I absolutely loved it! It's perfect if you have a lot of events coming up like weddings, birthdays, etc. Make sure to use code FIRSTRTR20P to save 20% off your first unlimited month or rental.

Also, Bloomingdale's is having their Friends & Family sale starting today! Use promo code FRIENDS at checkout and take 25% off select regular- and sale-price items. The offer is valid Apr 3-10. This sale is HUGE and great if you were eyeing certain designer bags, shoes or clothing! Now is the time to get them because they rarely go on sale!

2. Shoes

My blue suede shoes!

I am currently obsessed with my new Steve Madden Carrson Heels in Blue Suede. The color is absolutely gorgeous and unique and I love the chunky heel. They are perfect for spring. 

My favorite heels for this season!

Left: Pink Slip on Plimsolls from River Island | Right: Nude Pink Heels from Lulus
Far Left: Lordship Lace-Up Ballet Flats | Middle Left: Sam Edelman Azela Tassel Lace-up Sandals | Middle Right: Ted Baker Blush + Rose Gold Sandals   | Far Right: Steve Madden Carrson Heels in Sky Blue


The Sam Edelman Lace-up Sandals have been on my wish list for a while now! I think they would look great with a chic white lace dress or a cute LBD. 

3. Jewelry
 
Sky Blue & Gray Drop Earrings

Pastel Blush Pink & Blue Earrings
Rose Quartz Bar Necklace

There you have it! My favorites picks in accessories from my two favorite colors: rose quartz & serenity blue. Which are your favorite picks? Are you going to take advantage of any of the sales I mentioned? Let me know in the comments!

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Get the Look: The Bachelor's Lauren B. After the Final Rose White Dress

'The Bachelor' finale has come and gone, and while yes, every Monday night from now until May will involve a lot less tears, backstabbing and let's be real - less of a reason to drink wine for two hours... there is something we can all still live for: Lauren B's 'After the Final Rose' gorgeous white lace dress! 

I was dying when she came out looking so bridal and as unbelievable as ever; I guess that's what professional hair & makeup is here for! Nevertheless, she looked stunning. 

I LIVE for anything white & lacy, and below are some of my picks to get a similar look to Lauren B. from Monday night's 'Bachelor' finale special...


The Accessories:

Crystal Silver Drop Earrings by Wander + Lust Jewelry

'Stecy' Heel by Steven Madden or Nude Patent Heel at Lulu*s


The Dress:

Bardot Shauna Lace Dress     |         Endless Rose Illusion Lace Dress      |         AQUA Illusion Inset Lace Dress


Olivia Palermo Lace Dress      |      Adrianna Papell Illusion Lace Dress     |       Endless Rose Lace Dress


Adelyn Rae Chiffon & Lace Romper | Dress the Population 'Abbie' Sequin Dress | Rehearsal Dinner Darling Dress in Ivory

There you have it! Now, I can't wait to see what gorgeous looks JoJo will be serving us on the next season of 'The Bachelorette' (which I am so happy it's her)!

Which are YOUR favorites? Let me know in the comments!
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Makeup Review: Radiant Foundations for Dry Skin­­

Having dry skin is something I have dealt with all my life and still do every day. Before I knew how to pick out the right type of makeup for my skin, I noticed at the end of every day my skin looked very dried out and I would see small dry skin patches on my face. Not a cute look!

foundations for dewy skin

It seemed like no matter how much moisturizer I used beforehand, my foundation didn’t help my skin look better… it only made it look worse. Over the past couple years, I have tried many different foundations to try to remedy this problem, and below are my top 3 picks:

liquid foundations for dry skin

     1. Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation: Just the name in itself sounds so smooth… This is my top pick as this gorgeous foundation has NEVER dried out on me and stays put all day and night!

giorgio armani luminous silk foundation review
  • Noteworthy feature: The finish! It makes your skin look so luminous without looking greasy. If you have normal to dry skin, this is a must try.
  • Packaging: Beautiful! The bottle comes with an attached pump to dispense the foundation. This is one of the things I look for when purchasing a liquid foundation because there is less spillage, less waste of product & just an overall ease of use. The bottle is kind of short which makes it easy to hold & pack for travel. It’s a glass bottle, so you need to be extra careful to not drop it (I’ve done that before, and let me tell you I was probably depressed for a month… & still haven’t gotten over it!)
  • Value: The bottle you get is 1 oz for $62. It does sound like a lot, but it lasts a very long time! I bought my bottle in Paris on our honeymoon (which was in Sept 2015) and it’s still going strong. I don’t use foundation every single day, so it just depends on how often you use it, but you really don’t need a lot when you do.
  • Coverage: Excellent. This foundation is very buildable, which means you can go for a lighter coverage or for a medium to full coverage. It really depends on what you need and it blends so easily! PRO TIP: I usually start off using a very small amount and blend it into my face and go from there. It’s always easier to add more if you need it. Overdoing the foundation can actually age you.
  • Finish: Dewy, radiant, luminous, gorgeous, etc. The finish for this foundation is why I love it so much! I really do glow after I put this on.
2    2. Makeup Forever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation: I love this foundation because of the coverage, the multitude of shades they offer (40 shades to be exact!) and the value.


makeup forever ultra hd foundation review

  • Noteworthy Feature: This “high-def” foundation was developed specifically for the film and TV industry's most advanced technology, as it is completely invisible under the latest, super-focused 4k lens. So, it’s perfect to wear when you are going to get your picture taken as the formula is lightweight, but still hides uneven textures & other flaws.
  • Packaging: It’s very sleek & easy to use. This bottle also comes in the “pump style” bottle which is great. The bottle & cap are both plastic which is great for travel; however my cap after a while almost always pops off for whatever reason (minor issue). 
  • Value: $43 for 1.01oz. This foundation again, lasts a very long time as you don’t need too much of it.
  • Coverage: Medium to buildable full coverage. I really like the amount of coverage you get compared to other foundations and it looks very natural. 1.5 pumps are perfect for me on days I need a full face of makeup all day long and into the night. 
  • Finish: Natural & lightweight.
     3. Diorskin Airflash Spray Foundation: I love this foundation for the finish it gives my skin & how lightweight and natural it looks.


diorskin airflash foundation review

  • Noteworthy Feature: The unique airbrush spray can! It's super easy to apply and perfect for when you are trying to get out the door quickly.
  • Packaging: I absolutely love the packaging! It’s so chic & luxurious... and everything I expected from a Dior foundation. I love that you can spray it directly on your face, or straight onto a kabuki brush. The versatility is really nice. 
  • Value: $62 for 2.3 oz. Really great value as you get more than double the amount of product you got in the two previous foundations. PRO TIP: Spraying the foundation directly on a synthetic kabuki brush and then applying to your skin will help you use less product overtime.
  • Coverage: For me, this was light to medium coverage. On days where I felt my skin was pretty clear, I could definitely use less and still look radiant. However, if I needed more coverage I would mix this one with the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk.
  • Finish: Very light, natural, and velvety leaving your skin soft & bright. 

Close Winners:
L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Healthy Luminous Foundation, $10.99
This foundation is a wonderful drugstore find! It’s super affordable and gives you that radiant looking skin you are looking for. It doesn’t have the lasting power in my experience as the others do, but the finish is great. I also love the pump style bottle and you get a lot of product for the money. It’s worth a try, especially if you have skin on the dryer side. 
Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat le Teint Radiance, $58.00
I was super excited to get this in because this is basically the foundation version of YSL's hugely popular luminizing highlighter stick. This foundation was very very liquidy which made it a bit messy to work with. However, once it goes on the face it is very dewy and luminous. The foundation comes with 22 SPF in it, which is nice if you like to wear SPF every day. I would prefer to wear SPF moisturizing lotion (like Origins VitaZing™ SPF 15 Energy-Boosting Moisturizer with Mangosteen, $36) under my foundation and have my foundation with no SPF, but that is just a preference. If you want a dewy, lightweight finish with SPF, this is the foundation for you.


foundation reviews for dry skin

All in all whatever foundation you use, it really depends on your skin type. If you have normal to dry skin like me, I would highly recommend trying one of the foundations I listed above. Always look for the words “luminous”, “dewy”, and “radiant” when reading the descriptions for a foundation. These words mean they will not dry our your skin. 

If your skin is on the oily side, I would recommend trying a matte finish. Matte finishes can be very tricky though, so I would say to test the product ahead of time at the store, or buy at stores with great return policies such as Sephora, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom. They will take back pretty much anything if you used it and didn’t 100% love it. This is AWESOME because you don’t have to be worried about throwing away your money on something that didn’t match your skin tone, or give you the results you were looking for.

I hope you enjoyed the review! Let me know in the comments what your favorite foundations are and why!
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The 58th Annual Grammy Awards were this past Monday night and the red carpet was sizzling hot! From the gorgeous bright colored gowns, to the neutral makeup & sleek hair... I would say this was one of my favorite award season red carpets so far this year! 

"Get The Look" is a series where I will post my favorite celebrity fashion & beauty looks and share how you can recreate a similar look (for a whole lot LESS)! Here are some of my favorite jaw-dropping looks from Monday night:

All the makeup linked below are the exact products that were worn on Monday or their makeup artists use on a regular basis :)

Colorblocking & Bright: Taylor Swift and Kimberly Schlapman 


Click on the images below to shop the look!





 Sequins & Smoky: Selena Gomez

  
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Sleek & Sultry: Ariana Grande

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Chic & Glowing: Chrissy Teigen


 Click on the images below to shop the look!  Image Map


Edgy & Fresh Faced: Demi Lovato

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Sexy & Neutrals: Bella Hadid



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And...there you have it! Which look was your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

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Wander + Blush is part of several affiliate programs. This means that if you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site I may make a commission from that click and/or purchase. All opinions are my own. I appreciate your readership and support. 

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3 comments

  1. I love all the bags and those blue shoes are beautiful, I love all the pieces of necklaces and those dresses are so danty..

    ReplyDelete
  2. Adrianna Papell Illusion Lace Dress is crazy adorable!!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Wow what beautiful gowns and jewelry!

    ReplyDelete

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