NEW Favorite Top Coat: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat

A few months ago I did a post on a great top coat for my nails. Although I loved that product, as with a lot of things, I found that after a while of using that product, it just didn’t seem to live up to my initial high hopes. So….I’ve found another great top coat that I’ve been loving for the last few months. It’s the Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat. It comes in a cute red bottle, dries in about 1-2 minutes, leaves a SMOOTH and shiny finish and keeps my polish looking fresh and beautiful for days! Check it out! I think you’ll really love it!

Rachel

Emergency Beauty Kit Essentials

Alright….so I admit it. I am rushing EVERYWHERE I go. Time is not my friend, and it is a daily struggle. So, because of that unfortunate reality, instead of fixing the problem (which makes TOTAL sense), I have instead, learned to adapt. Haha! J  What’s my big secret for overcoming this struggle? An emergency beauty kit! I keep a cute little bag in the trunk of my car with all of the essentials. So whether I’m running late or have an unexpected overnight stay, I am ready to go! So, hit up the travel size aisle, stock up and get to loading up your emergency beauty kit!

·         Deodorant

·         Body spray

·         Lotion

·         Contact solution/contact case

·         A few cotton balls/nail polish remover

·         Neutral lipstick/lipgloss

·         Blush

·         Face powder or BB Cream (powder will hold up much longer)

·         Panty liners

·         2-3 tampons/pads

·         Spare pair of underwear (Yes, I said it! J)

·         Spare pair of earrings

·         Tide to go stain stick

·         Vaseline

·         Mini size toothbrush

·         Toothpaste

What other essentials would you have to have in YOUR emergency beauty kit? Please share in the comments section below!

Rachel

Rin's 5 Fall Essentials

So, I have to admit I am not a big fan of cold weather. Lets just say I like less layers when it comes to my wardrobe. If it could be 75 degrees in GA everyday, I would be a happy girl! But lets face it, there's something to say about having seasons. So, in order to make the BEST of this Autumn, I must have these 5 Fall essentials!

#1 A girl's best friend in the fall are a pair of black boots

#2 When that chill hits the air, you must be prepared with a fitted peacoat

#3 In the Fall, colors can often be so drab, but not if you add a POP of ColoR! My fave for the fall is mustard!

#4 Let us not forget, with a pop a color comes a funky animal print, my personal favorite is LEOPARD!!!!
Check out Beyonce, I like those shades as well! :)

#5 Last, but certainly not least, this drink puts me in the mood for Fall every time! None other than the Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks!

Which of these essentials do we share in common? What are your 5 Fall essentials? Tell me in the comments! :)

Carrin

NEW OBSESSION: L'Oreal La Laque and La Matte Colour Riche Lipsticks

There is nothing that I hate more than buying a lipstick then getting it home and realizing it’s nothing like the color that the package portrayed. I am a HUGE consumer of all things cosmetics, so as such a loyal patron of these products, I hate when my time and money has been wasted on a product that’s nothing like it was marketed. 

Luckily, I don’t have ANY complaints with the new L’Oreal La Laque and La Matte lipsticks. They are, in one word, AMAZING! What you see is what you get! The colors are true, bold, opaque, pigmented and gorgeous! There are 8 shades to choose from; 4 La Laque colors (glossy finishes), and 4 La Matte colors (matte finishes). These lipsticks retail for $7.99 (Target) each and I have 6 of the 8 colors they offer.

They glide on incredibly smooth, have an easy twist mechanism to aid in product usage and come in sleek, slender packaging. This product is an A+++ in my book and I recommend you picking up at least one of each finish, one gloss and one matte. You won’t be sorry!

Rachel

H&M: OOTN

H&M black dress (S)

A couple blogposts ago, I described my recent purchases from H&M. One of the items, I bought was a small black dress with lace on the sides. It was only $10! I love how you can find such steals at H&M. Well, this summer me and my girls went out to celebrate Ray's birthday and I decided to rock it! I paired it with my nude Jessica Simpson heels and a hot pink bracelet. 

What do you guys think of my OOTN (outfit of the night)?!

-Carrin

Dorco USA Razors: Shai Double 3-Blade System for Women

A couple months ago, Dorco USA asked me to review one of their products. I was happy to do it and honored that they asked. This is a 6 blade razor with a moisturizing strip, pivoting head, non-slip grip and fantastic price retailing at only $5.95. Before this razor, I had been using my Gillette Venus razor for the last 2-3 years and have LOVED it. BUT, this razor has certainly taken my heart now. It offers more, retails for less and yields fantastic results! Check out my review below!

Rachel

CURLS Passion Fruit Control Paste

Ok, It's my turn! I completely concur that CURLS Passion Fruit Control Paste is AMAZING not to mention it smells great! But since I'm a naturalista, I have a different take on its amazingness! First and foremost, I love its versatility because not only will it lay down your edges but it will also define your natural kinks, curls, & coils! I love the consistency of the paste, it is NOT sticky or pasty which is critical when applying a control paste and it does not flake. This paste also adds shine to your hair without it appearing greasy. Also, this product will last a long time because you do not need much to achieve the look you want whether it's a natural top bun or a twist-out! I definitely recommend all my naturals girls out there to try CURLS curl control paste! You can find this product at your local Target, it is only $7.99!  Let me know what you think!
-Carrin

The Best Edge Control Product I've Used

For the last year or so, I have been rocking the top bun like nobody's business! It's the quickest, easiest, lowest maintenance style I know and it looks cute! One key component of the perfect top bun is slick edges. I have used several different types of gels and hairspray and they either don't hold enough, produce flaky residue or don't do the job at all. BUT, I have come across this AMAZING product that I am ABSOLUTELY loving!!!!! It's called Passion Fruit Curl Control Paste Sculpting Shine Pomade. It's important to note that I have relaxed hair, so I can't speak to how well it works on curls. However, it works wonders on smoothing my edges, maintaining a soft, yet strong hold, and leaves no flaky residue behind. I have been using this product almost everyday for the last month! Even if I'm not wearing an up-do, it's great for slicking down your edges when wearing your hair down too. I've been raving about this product for weeks to my friends and just had to let ya'll in on it. This product can be found at Target, Walmart and Sally's and retails for about $8 bucks. It's worth taking the time to go and snatch up this awesome product! You won't be sorry. :)  How does this product work on natural hair? Stay tuned this week for Rin's perspective. What's your go-to styling product?

Rachel

Natural Hair Anthem

Check out this awesome song by Qu'ality. All my natural girls will love this!

Carrin

Soft Curls, Lots of Body

I absolutely hate stiff hair....hate it. Hair is supposed to move and be full of life! I love soft curls (bumps, really) with lots of body. My go to tool? The In Styler. It's a rotating barrel with attached brush that distributes heat evenly across stands and smooths hair for a soft, silky, bouncy curl/bump. I've been using it for about 4 years and I love it! It retails for$99.99, can be purchased from Target, and comes in two barrel sizes. What's your favorite tool to achieve soft curls with lots of body?

Rachel

Rin's Top 4 FAVE lip colors!

So, a couple of months ago, I posted a video with my top 4 fave lip colors! So, my favorites are MAC Ruby Woo, MAC Candy Yum Yum, Wet & Wild 908 C, Rimmel London, Kate Moss 04. The MAC lipsticks are $15. Kate Moss is about $6 and Wet & Wild is only $2!!!  I would say my absolute FAVORITE is Wet & Wild 908 C and its the least expensive! I like it because I feel like I can wear it everyday. I can wear it with a formal outfit or just a casual outfit as well. It is a very versatile color that can be used all seasons! So, which one is your favorite?! Enjoy the video and tell me what you think! -Rin

Wet & Wild 908 C

MAC Candy Yum Yum

Kate Moss Rimmel London 04

MAC Ruby Woo 

Favorite Blushes

The other day I posted about how to find the perfect blush. Now, I'll share with you some of my favorite blushes both high end and low end. These are some of my go to blushes that I pull for the most often.

1. Nars, $26: Exhibit A (vibrant brick red) and Taj Mahal (beautiful orange with specks of gold)
2. Makeup Forever, $20: Tangerine #18 (bold, bright matte orange)
3. Wet n Wild, $3 (all colors)
4. Maybelline Limited Edition, $7: Orange Crush (orange with gold flecks throughout)
5. NYX, $5: all color

New twist to a twist out!!!

Hey guys! This time with my twist out, I decided to do something a little different. I used milkshake straws to put on the ends of my twist out! I twisted my hair normally, but instead I put straws on the end to give more curl and definition! Not to mention, the straws were only $1 from Rite Aid! Can't beat that! What do you think? I like it! :) -Rin

Change Your Hair Without the Risk

For years, I wore the exact same hairstyle. I always wanted to try new looks, but was always afraid of the commitment of a cut or color change. I tried sew-ins  and although it was a nice way to experiment, it was expensive and restrictive, especially when you needed to scratch your scalp. Lol. The alternative that allows for more flexibility, scalp accessibility and versatility? Clip-ins. They're exactly what they sound like....hair with clips on them. Part your hair, clip in at the root and apply throughout. They come in MANY textures, colors and lengths and range in prices. I absolutely LOVE them. I'd take clip ins ANY day over sew-ins. Great and comparable alternative and cheaper! Check out the pic below of my hair evolution.

1. My hair
2. Sew-in
3. Clip-ins

Twists using Dark & Lovely's NEW coil moisturizing souffle'

Tonight after washing and conditioning my hair, I decided to twist it using Dark & Lovely's Au Naturale Coil Moisturizing Souffle'! It worked really on my twists! The souffle' has very smooth consistency and upon application, it softens the hair. In regards to smell, it does not have a strong scent. It actually has a faint mango smell which is attributed to the mango oil in the product. I also really liked that it did not leave my hair crunchy, my hair is still soft to touch. I look forward to my twist out to see the definition of the twists! Don't worry, I will be sure to update you all!!! So, stay tuned! To learn more about Dark and Lovely's NEW natural hair line, click here Dark & Lovely Au Naturale
-Rin

Blushes

Blushes are absolutely one of my makeup faves. In fact, it's safe to say, I'm a blush addict. However, all blushes are not created equal. When looking for a good blush, you want great pigmentation. In other words, you shouldn't have to swirl the brush in the blush 15 times to finally be able to see some color. You also want a smooth consistency for flawless blending. As far as colors, there are endless options, so it really just depends on your skin tone. I will say, however, that for women with deeper skin tones, you have more versatility. The brighter and bolder the color in the package, the better! It's all about applying with a light hand. You're be surprised the bushes you could wear that you never thought you could. Experiment and have fun....it's makeup!

Rachel

Denman Brush, a brand not a type!

To all my natural girls:
I'm sure you can be frustrated by tangled natural hair. You know after you wash and condition, and you're just ready to style. No, no, no, you must detangle FIRST! It is very critical for the protection of your hair. With that said, I have tried several brushes and combs to detangle, however I have yet to find the most efficient and natural friendly brush. I have heard a lot of people refer to the Denmen brush. Therefore, I have been searching everywhere from Wal-mart to Target to Sally's for this brush, until I realized it was not a type of brush I was looking for; it was a BRAND. I know some of you already knew this, but this was a revelation for me!! These brushes can be on found at the following link: http://www.denmanbrushus.com/
I cannot wait to order mine and report to you whether it was worth the purchase. Fortunately, they are not very expensive. So, wish me luck, I am trying a new brush for detangling!!!
-Rin

Black Radiance Lipsticks

I was in Walgreens the other day and noticed these beautiful lipsticks next to the Iman and Wet n Wild displays. They were new lipsticks by Black Radiance. This is not a brand I see everywhere, but I do know it's sold at Walgreens and Rite Aid. These lipsticks retail for only $2!!! That's why I LOVE drugstore brands. You can experiment without the big monetary risk. Sure, I splurge on high end brands in occasion, but honestly, the quality is just as comparable with brands like Wet n Wild, and now, Black Radiance....as far a lipsticks go. $15 or $2? That's a no brainer. :) The colors are beautiful, the formula smooth, the pigment bold, and the value unbeatable. Check out the three that I picked up. So far, I'm loving them!

Rachel

(Pictured from left to right)

#5112, #5114, #5117

Lovin' overalls this Summer Season!!!

So, I know when you think overalls, you think of being 5 years old on the playground! Lol! But, ladies, believe it or not, they are back in style, especially overall shorts!! I just bought a pair from Goodwill for only $5 to try and emulate the pic below from Pintrest! What do you girls think, all over it?! Or they can stay in the 90's?!

BB Creams

BB creams ate all the rage! BB creams, or beauty bands, are needn't to offer multiple benefits for your skin in a makeup form; skin care and makeup in one. Claims such as hydrating, blurring imperfections, smoothing skin appearance, evening skin tone are some of the main claims of a BB cream. These can be found from just about every brand. However, unfortunately, not many brands offer these in darker shades. But I've found one that has been an absolute staple in my makeup collection and I love it! It's Maybelline's BB cream and it is sheer coverage, definitely evens out my skin tone, hydrates and leaves my skin with a beautiful dewy and fresh finish. This is a great alternative to foundation, which is a good option during the summer months. But, if you prefer more coverage, it serves as a great primer for your foundation as well. It retails for about $7 and can be found pretty much anywhere. Check it out and let me know what you think.

Rachel

From mini twist to twist out!!!!

So, I rocked my mini twists for a week, but it was time to take them out! It took me about three hours to put in my twists but only 20 minutes to remove them! Exciting!!! I love how versatile my natural hair is! What do you think of my twist out? Yay or nay?!

Take Heed Ladies: Heat Damage is Alive and Well

What's up to all the natural hair ladies out there! I'm one of the seemingly few ladies out here that still relaxes their hair, but I am always listening and learning new things about the natural hair journey. Everything from homemade products, protective styles, twist outs, Bantu knots, curling puddings, super expensive, but supposedly tried and true products, and of course, using NO HEAT or MINIMAL HEAT. FOR ALL LADIES (yes, all ladies), be very aware and careful of the amount of heat you put on your hair. But specifically my natural girls, beware of the impact it can have on your hair and natural curl pattern. Everyone is different, but it's better to be cautious than sorry. Check out what happened to this young lady below. How have you combated heat damage in the past or how are you currently combating heat damage? Share your tips and tricks! 

Rachel

Flexi rod FAIL saved by Eden Body Works!!!!

One time for Eden Body Works, Coconut Shea Control Edge Glaze!!!! I washed and conditioned my hair and afterwards I rolled my hair with flexi rods. However, the following morning, when I removed the rods, my hair was not looking good! When I say not looking good, I mean a HOT MESS! Fortunately, I decided to salvage my hair by using Eden Body Works Control Edge Glaze and make a mohawk. Can you see how smooth my edges are? Laid, right? I like to think so! :) This glaze is only $8.99! Click here to purchase http://www.edenbodyworks.com/

Favorite Setting Powders

Properly applying your makeup requires patience, precision and time. The last thing you want is for your makeup to rub off or fade. Using a setting powder helps to keep your makeup in place and increase the longevity of the makeup. However, I've found that some can look cakey and dry, settle into fine lines, and detract from your look. There are several powders that I like, but only one that I LOVE! It's E.L.F. Cosmetics color correcting powder. It's not designed or marketed to set makeup, but performs wonderfully and I've found it also helps minimize makeup rubbing off. It retails for $3, is compact, leaves a smooth finish, is translucent (colorless), and sets makeup beautifully! Do you have a favorite setting powder? Do tell! :)

Rachel

Shhh....I have a secret!!!!!

So, Did you figure it out from the photo above? My name is Carrin and I have facial hair, there I said it! Whew, that was a load off my chest! This topic is often taboo amongst women, it is rarely discussed. For me, I'm simply embarrassed and rather not talk about it. However, it is important for us women to help each other out even if it makes us uncomfortable and/or vulnerable.  As a result, I am here to help! :)

So, the top 5 ways to remove facial hair from worst to BEST in my opinion.   

#5- Shave, shaving should be your last resort, it is horrible for your skin, and does not cut hair at the root.

#4- Wax, waxing works temporarily, however it does not benefit long term and can irritate your skin.

#3, Thread, threading works, but only for about three weeks before the hair grows and it is also quite painful.

#2- Epilator, a device to remove hair. It also can hurt, however it removes the hairs from the root, which is vital to hair removing. In terms of price, they can range anywhere from $20 to $100!

#1, Laser hair removal- the procedure that will remove hair via lasers. It will take multiple sessions, usually between five and six and it is definitely the most expensive, but it is WORTH IT! It's about $500-$1000. But, the hair will be gone FOREVER!!! One day, I plan to do laser hair removal!!! :) 

I hope these tips help! Let me know if you would like to join the club, Facial Hair Anonymous! ;)

-Rin

Skin Care Splurge: Clarisonic, Worth the Money?

Hey y'all! A few weeks back, I posted a, skincare routine blog post and mentioned my Clarisonic. It's been all the rage for a few years now, and after doing my research, and watching/listening to tons of reviews via YouTube, I decided to purchase one. They retail for about $150 and claim to remove makeup, dirt and oil significantly more than washing without. I would probably agree with that. They also say it's gentle enough to use twice a day. I TOTALLY disagree. Even with the delicate brush (the one I use),  it's too harsh and actually tends to promote breakouts and irritation. At least for me. Great exfoliating tool? Yes. Great cleansing tool? When used sparingly and occasionally. Overall skincare holy grail? No. This is a nice luxury skincare tool to own, but it's not a must have as far as I'm concerned.

Final Grade: B-/C

Rachel

Vaseline Cocoa Butter Body Oil

Do you like for your skin to feel silky smooth? I mean, who doesn't! The Vaseline Cocoa Butter Body Oil is absolutely amazing! First off, it smells incredible! I don't know if it's just me but when I think of the smell of cocoa butter, it's not so great. However, this body oil changes the game for sure! This oil moisturizes your skin all day and it uses pure cocoa butter. It also  uses Brazilian nut and almond oils. There is no no need to reapply. Your skin has a definite glow after use! So, use it after a shower in the morning or night, and your skin will be soft as a baby's bottom! You can buy this product at your local drugstore or Walmart. At Walmart, it is only $5.34! Check it out and tell me what you think! I give it an A+! -Rin

Girly Nails

I am a girl's girl and love everything feminine and pretty; that includes pink nails! Pink is probably my go to polish and I have everything from deep to pastel shades of pink. The latest I just picked up is an Essie polish called Boom, Boom, Room and is the perfect cotton candy pink. It's especially pretty on my toes! What's your favorite nail polish shade you gravitate towards?

Rachel

Mini Twist Out by Rin

After being inspired by Naptural 85 (pictured,left) and her MANY mini twist outs, I figured I would try to conquer the mini twist out as well! Four hours later, I am happy with my results. I washed and conditioned my hair and then detangled. After detangling, I split my hair into four sections and used Shea Moisture's Raw Shea Butter Leave-in conditioner. Once the conditioner saturated my hair, I used Shea Moisture's curling smoothie on each piece of hair that I twisted. I hope this style last at least two weeks!
      What do you think of my results? Yay or Nay?

Jennifer Lopez Highlighted, Glowy Cheeks

Ever noticed that "lit from within" glow that Jennifer Lopez always has? Well, that can be achieved with a shimmery highlighting color. Choose a beautiful gold/champagne powder (blush, eyeshadow, or highlighting powder will do), and brush on the top of your cheeks for a beautiful shimmer that looks absolutely stunning, especially when the light hits your skin. This is a quick and easy way to give your skin that coveted glow!

Rachel

Rin's FIRST Wash and Go!!!

So, today I decided to BRAVE my natural hair fear, the dreaded wash and go! I have been natural for almost two years. However, I have yet to have the courage to rock a wash and go! I just felt my curls, coils, kinks, whatever you wanna call them did not have enough definition. Well, after thinking long and hard, I decided to give it a go! What do you think? I have to say, I might just do it again. To be honest, I did not wash, I just conditioned after my shower with Shea Moisture's Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner. After conditioning, I sectioned my hair in four parts and detangled with my shower comb. Once detangled, I first used Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls gel on each section followed Eco Styler gel with olive oil. I am happy with my results and I have to say I am learning to love my hair more and more each day! :) Tell me, should I do it again? -Rin

Bold Eyes Anyone?

My favorite feature to emphasize is my eyes. I  love anything that makes my eyes pop! The product I probably run out of the most, is eyeliner. I've been using L'Oreal's  Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner. It's a really good everyday eyeliner and I'd recommend it to anyone! But, I just picked up a new eyeliner by Tarte Cosmetics and it is such an awesome product! It's soft, glides on silky  smooth, is the MOST intense black eyeliner pencil I've ever used, STAYS ALL DAY, is waterproof and has a built in smudger to help create the perfect smokey eye. I can't say enough  great things about this product and I look forward to putting it to the test when I hit the beach in a couple of days. Keep you guys posted!

Rachel

Tarte Cosmetics Skinny Smolder Eyes Eyeliner Pencil
Purchased @ Sephora for $19

MAXI DRESSES

In my opinion, maxi dresses are a girls best friend, next to diamonds of course! They are light, comfortable, and make an easy and quick outfit. I recently purchased the cutest and comfortable maxi dress from Target. To be honest, I payed a little more than I normally would on a dress. The dress was $29.99, however I now feel it was definitely worth it! My dress is black and white with stripes. It is slim fitting and hugs any curves you may have, which in my case isn't much! LOL. Anyway, check out the video below to see me rocking the dress Memorial Day weekend.

4th of July

The 4th of July is right around the corner and there's no better chance to rock RED, white and blue...especially RED! I just picked up a new lipstick from MAC called Lady Danger. It's this GORGEOUS red orange color and goes on like butter with a beautiful matte finish. However, it is very bright, but totally worth the attention this color will inevitably draw! I'm very pleased with this purchase and looking forward to rocking it! What's your favorite red lipstick?

Rachel

Eden Body Works All Natural Shampoo & Conditioner

I know, I know, you can't afford to add another product to your pile. However, I challenge you to change your mind! My new FAVORITE shampoo and conditioner is Eden Body Works Peppermint Tea Tree Oil. It is absolutely amazing and it's all NATURAL! It is so refreshing! You know when you eat a piece of peppermint flavored gum or candy, it refreshes your mouth, well imagine that with your scalp! Not to mention, both products are sulfate and paraben FREE! The conditioner is also incredibly moisturizing and softens your hair upon application.

All Natural Shampoo

This shampoo and conditioner can be found at your local Walmart for only $8.47/each. Trust me, it's worth the purchase! Click here to check it out Eden Body Works -Rin

All Natural Conditioner

Favorite Lippies

Hey ladies! If there's anything we women like to do, it's change our minds. Whether it's changing outfits a million times, trying on 8 pair of earrings to find just the right pair, or diversifying our makeup looks. We crave change. The easiest way to spice up your makeup is by trying a new lipstick. However, doing so has the potential get very pricey. My recommendation? Wet n Wild Mega Last lipsticks. They are FANTASTIC quality, rich pigmentation, and offer a great range of color options at only $2.99/each! You can't beat that! Check out my video below of my Wet n Wild lipstick collection to get an idea of some of your color options. If you try these and/or have tried these, what did you think? What's your favorite shade?

Rachel

H & M is place to be!!!

Yesterday, I went to H&M to check out their latest deals and I found two awesome items! The first was a tribal clutch with bright orange trim. It's perfect because it's black and white which is totally in this season as well as the bright color orange! This clutch was only $5.95! I love it because you can wear it with a nice or casual outfit! Check it out below!

H & M Clutch for $5.95

The second item I bought was a black fitted dress. In my opinion, you can never have too many black dresses. This dress is sleeveless with lace trim on both sides as well as on the back. It fits amazing and I can wear it with heals or flats! What do you think? Winner? Yay or Nay? Btw, it was only $10!

H & M Black dress for $10

To see what else H & M has to offer, click here http://www.hm.com/us/

Smooth and Hydrated Lips

There's nothing worse than dry, chapped, peeling lips. Follow these easy home remedies to achieve the perfect pout! :)

Damp your lips with water and use a clean, damp toothbrush and gently rub across your lips. This is a great exfoliant and gets rid of flaky skin.

                                                                  OR

You can also use a homemade scrub, using honey and sugar, rub across damp lips, and rinse.

After exfoliating, pat lips dry with a soft towel, and moisturize. One oldie, but goody, is Vaseline. Apply a tad on your lips and they'll feel super soft. Not a fan of Vaseline? My FAVORITE lip hydrating product is Maybelline's Baby Lips. This product is amazing, is great to use especially before lipstick application and is only $3! Have you tried any of these tips? Used any of these products? Let me know!

Rachel