Will you do this with me?

Will you do this with me?

It’s the time of the year that I pause to reflect back on what the past year has meant to me.  I’m simply in awe of the amazing amount of blessings that it’s held.

You girls are a HUGE part of what I have to be thankful for.  I honestly have the BEST job in the world.  The community that’s arisen out of GYPO and the GYPO Style Challenge is beyond anything I could’ve ever dreamed.

Blogging Break

During the next two weeks, I’ll be taking a break from posting on the blog.  I could’ve done prescheduled content but decided not to and here’s why:

  1. I need a true break and digital detox.  It’s been my busiest year yet and my mind and body need time to digest it and unwind.
  2. I don’t want to contribute to the “noise” that can distract from what matters most at this time of the year.

But the biggest reason of all is this:

I’m committing to less screen time during the next two weeks and I’d love to have you join me.

Let’s step away from our computers and put down our smart phones to truly connect and be present during this time of the year so we can focus on what really matters – God and family.

I’ll see you back here the first week of January with the first Pretty Fix of the new year.  I also have loads of new content planned to make 2016 your happiest, most stylish year yet.

Have a VERY blessed Christmas and all the best in 2016!
xoxo
Alison
Easy Summer Outfit: Kimono, Flowy Top and Shorts

Easy Summer Outfit: Kimono, Flowy Top and Shorts

It’s the last week of the summer challenge and the girls are having so much fun! I’m sad that it’s coming to an end.

Today, I’m sharing an item that was on our Pretty Fix – July List earlier this week. This is an easy summer outfit to put together with a printed kimono. I have a little confession to make…it took me a little bit to get used to this and I love it! The kimono is lightweight and easy to layer over your flowy top. Don’t underestimate what it can do to your wardrobe with a pair of heels for date nights! Here’s a preview from the Summer Challenge.

And here are a few of our challengers interpretations.

Kimono1
Kimono 2
Kimono 3

Shopping Options

Screen Shot 2015-06-16 at 9.59.02 AM[Floral Print Kimono]

Three Quarter Sleeve[Three Quarter Sleeve Fringe Kimono]

kimono[Short Sleeve Kimono]

sheer[Sheer Kimono]

It’s Your Turn: Do you have a favorite kimono print? Let me know in the below comments.

 

Easy Summer Outfit:  Graphic Tee and Bright Shorts

Easy Summer Outfit: Graphic Tee and Bright Shorts

One of my favorite casual wardrobe essentials is the grown up graphic tee.  When I decided to put one on the Summer 2015 GYPO Style Challenge shopping list, I was a bit apprehensive.  I knew there might be a little push back from some of the challengers who felt it wasn’t age appropriate.  But the new crop of graphic tees in stores are grown up, sophisticated and add a little something special to every outfit.  I even featured my favorite graphic tee that I picked up in London in June’s Pretty Fix.

This week, the challengers really stepped up to the plate in beautifully proving that graphic tees really do work for everyone.  Here’s the day two outfit from the Summer Challenge.

[Graphic Tee/Bright Tote/Bright Shorts/Metallic Sandals/Stone Earrings]

And here are a few of our challengers’ interpretations.

Summer Collage 3

Summer Collage 2

Summer Collage 1

Shopping Options

[J. Crew Factory]

[J. Crew Factory]

[Forever 21]

[Plus Size – Maurice’s]

It’s Your Turn:  Have you given the graphic tee trend a try?  If so, how are you wearing yours?

Spring Makeup Essentials to Beat the Heat

Spring Makeup Essentials to Beat the Heat

BY JENNIFER HOFFMAN OF SBN BEAUTY

Spring has FINALLY sprung and if you’re anything like me, you’re itching to buy some new clothes, switch out your home decor, plan a vacation, and get ready for some fun in the sun! The last thing we like to think about at this time of year is usually makeup. It tends to feel too heavy and comes right off when we sweat. Plus we don’t always have time to do it as kids are home from school in the summer and it’s just usually a super busy time. The problem is that many of us still feel naked going out with a bare face. So what is a girl to do? I’m here to help you by sharing my spring/summer makeup staples (including SPF, of course!) This routine will work for you as the weather warms up. It’ll give you that gorgeous summer glow that lasts all day long no matter what the day holds. You can also glam up any of these looks when you want to take it to the next level.

Summer staple #1: SPF with coverage

A good summer makeup routine ALWAYS starts with SPF. We have to protect our canvas, and the best way to do that is with some sun protection. Even better is to do it with a product that provides a little bit of a glow. Below are a few of my favorite “two for one” SPF products that are also layerable with other makeup products.

Sheerest coverage

Tula Protect & Glow SPF 30 & Tula Blurring Primer (These two products combined give a little bit of a glow and blur out imperfections. Shades for all skin tones. Because it’s a primer, you can add foundation on top!)

A little more coverage

Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 (This won’t cover blemishes or any major imperfections, but is tinted enough to even out the skin tone. Also layers beautifully with foundation/concealer. And hydrates with hyaluronic acid!)

Ilia skin tint with SPF 40 in a off white bottle with brown writing.

Full coverage

It Cosmetics CC+ SPF 50 (This is a full-coverage color-correcting cream you can wear in place of foundation. You can wear concealer or anything else on top of it, just like you would with a normal makeup routine).

It Cosmetics CC + SPF 50 in a tube.

Topper

It’s super important to reapply SPF throughout the day if you’re going to be outdoors. If you’re already wearing makeup this can be a challenge. That’s where these setting sprays with SPF come in! Just spray on top of your makeup and you’re good to go!

Favorite SPF products without coverage

Woman smiling.

Check out my full beach makeup routine HERE.

Summer staple #2: Bronzer

It goes without saying that bronzer is a makeup routine favorite in the summertime. Everyone wants a gorgeous glow! My favorite type of bronzer for the summer is a cream. It blends seamlessly with the skin, so you won’t see any patchy spots when you’re in the sun. I often like to wear it alone with just a little concealer.

Tip: Cream bronzer also works beautifully as an eyeshadow, lip liner, or lip color!

Favorite cream bronzers with a variety of shades for everyone

How I use Bronzer in my Three Minute Makeup

Summer staple #3: Brick Nude lip & cheek colors

A nude lip with a brick undertone is all the rage this spring and summer. Because of the slight red undertone, it gives the appearance of a natural tan when you get just a little bit of sun. Choose a darker or lighter shade depending on how light or deep your skin tone is. Again- cream makeup is my favorite for the summer because it looks much more natural and does well through swimming & sweating!

Favorite Brick Nude Shades

Here’s how I like to use a cream lip/cheek for my eyes, lips & blush!

Summer Staple #4: Illuminator/Highlighter

Illuminator/highlighter (it can be referred to as both) is one of my favorite versatile products. It adds a gorgeous shimmer and can be used on the high points of the face, as eyeshadow, as a topper for lipsticks…the options are endless! Illuminators/highlighters come in powders, liquids, and creams. My favorite is, you guessed it, a cream. That’s because it works for mature skin and never gets stuck in any lines or creases. It also never looks cakey.

Tip: I love to mix illuminator with my cream bronzer for a gorgeous glow!

A women with diagrams showing the different makeup placement points.

Favorite Highlighters/Illuminators

Summer Staple #5: Setting Spray

Setting spray is a MUST in the summer to keep your makeup lasting through all your adventures. I mentioned some sprays with SPF above, but if you are sensitive and react to SPF or don’t need one with SPF because you won’t be outdoors much, these sprays are for you!

Fitish Don’t Sweat It CBD Makeup Setting Spray

If you are oily, an athlete, live in humidity, or all of the above, this is your new BFF. It seriously locks in your makeup. Not good for my dry-skinned girls!

A white bottle with a black lid of makeup setting spray.

Seint Beauty Setting Spray

Great for all skin types, and I love it for mature skin!

Seint makeup setting spray in a light gray bottle.

Milani Make it Last

This is a great budget-friendly option

Milani setting spray in a chrome bottle with a black spray nozzle.

Summer Staple #6: Lashes & Brows

Waterproof is the name of the game when it comes to lashes & brows in the summer! I am not a massive fan of waterproof mascara, but it is necessary if one is going swimming or participating in other fun summertime activities.

Tip: Wear waterproof mascara on your lower lashes if you have issues with smudging!

Woman with curly hair showcasing her summer makeup look.

Favorite waterproof mascaras

Brows also tend to wash off or wipe off really easily with sweat or water. You’ll want to use a waterproof pomade for a waterproof brow or use an eyeshadow/pencil to fill them and then lock it in with a waterproof brow gel. Here’s a tutorial with my favorite foolproof, waterproof brow product HERE.

Favorite Brow Products

Here is my Minimal Summer Makeup tutorial putting all these staples together!

I hope this helps you navigate creating a spring/summer makeup capsule for yourself so makeup can be the last thing on your mind while making special memories with your loved ones this season. Maybe you’ll grab a new product or two, or perhaps you already have these things and learned a new way to use them. Whatever the case, get out there and enjoy the great outdoors!

What spring/summer makeup staple is your favorite?

About Jennifer

Jennifer Hoffman who is a makeup artist smiling with summer makeup.

I’m a wife and mom raising two energetic boys in the desert (ages 2 & 10!) I’m a licensed esthetician/makeup artist and I have worked in the beauty industry since I was a teenager. I love teaching women how to bring out the beauty they already have instead of covering it up. I believe beauty is for everyone, and it’s my mission to not only help women look beautiful but believe they’re beautiful, too! Learn more at SBN Beauty or my Instagram!

20 New Beauty Products to Try This Fall

20 New Beauty Products to Try This Fall

by Jessica Pigza

Fall is a time for change and it’s also a great time to get your hands on some of the newest beauty products. Just like your closet, I always suggest going through your makeup twice a year to clear out any old stuff that might be expired. You wouldn’t want the eyeshadow you absolutely love to give you an eye infection that you absolutely hate, right? If you’re not sure what the life of your products are, there’s a handy cheatsheet below.

There are many bonuses to cleaning out your makeup at this time of year. The first is that it will give you a small sense of organization as we head into the busiest time of the year. Second, you’ll be able to see what you have and what you may want before heading into the holiday party season. Third, we already covered, eye and skin infections are never good at any time of the year and fourth, there are so many makeup gift set options available that you’ll be able to take advantage of. Below I’m going to show you some of those fabulous gift sets as well as other great new products that you may want to try. And to ensure you’re not wasting money on products that aren’t a heck yes after you get them home, double check your store’s return policy. Many stores will issue you a refund or store credit for products that aren’t what you expected. Now, let’s check out some of the latest beauty goodies and gift sets!

1. Glossier Monochromes Eyeshadow Trio

The monochromatic trends from summer aren’t over yet. Glossier just released a series of 10 eyeshadow trios that boast the perfect monochromatic look for your eyes. Each refillable palette comes with three shades, one matte, satin, and metallic, that are all buildable to help you create your ideal look. And because the palettes are refillable you only have to replace the single colors as they run out, not the whole palette, bonus!

2. Tarte Bow & Go™ Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm Set

Give your lips some loving and some shine with these juicy lip balms from Tarte. This set includes limited-edition shades wild berry and petal along with best-selling shades orchid and coconut. They contain maracuja oil which is great for keeping lips soft and smooth and the Cushion Comfort Complex instantly plumps. These lip products are formulated without petrolatum or lanolin and smell like coconut.

3. beautyblender BOUNCE™ Always On Radiant Skin Tint

If heavy foundations make you feel claustrophobic then you’ll love this lightweight skin tint from Beautyblender. This good for your skin tint offers breathable and buildable coverage that stays put. It is infused with hyaluronic acid which is great for hydrating skin as well as smoothing niacinamide. Plus it comes in 20 different shades.

4. Wet Brush Crushed Jewels Collection

If you don’t have a Wet Brush then I suggest you run and grab one. There are only a select few items that I say are a must-have and a Wet Brush is one of them. I share them with my two daughters and although we have five that circulate our house, I still feel like I’m always looking for one. I love them so much and no other brush will do in our house. No one complains when I brush their hair and I’ve noticed less breakage since I’ve been using it on mine. Just in time for the holidays, Wet Brush came out with its Crushed Jewel Pro Detangler collection in Sapphire Sparkle, Sterling Frost, and Ruby Shimmer. They are so pretty the hardest part will be deciding which one to get. Is it too early to think about stocking stuffers?

5. Artist Couture Love Sprung Blush Palette

Sometimes you want your blush to be matte and sometimes you want a little shimmer. With this blush trio by Artist Couture, you can have both! Available in two different sets, each trio comes with two matte colors and a buildable shimmer that allows you to have as much or as little glow as you like. These palettes are super versatile and look great on most skin tones.

6. LANEIGE Midnight Minis Set

I am obsessed with the LANEIGE lip sleeping masks especially when the cold weather begins and my heat runs all the time. I put some on at night and wake up to soft lips that aren’t peeling. I’ve only used the Berry flavor but with this mini gift set, you aren’t limited to just one. Try them all or share the love. Confession, I also use it during the day to give my lips a boost and add some shine. And did I mention it smells amazing?

7. MAKEUP BY MARIO Master Blade Brow Pencil

Easily create statement-making brows with this new brow pencil by Makeup By Mario. This isn’t your typical brow pencil. Its blade-like tip makes it easy to create hair-like details adding definition to your brows. It’s retractable which means your tip won’t get smashed and bonus, you don’t need a sharpener to create amazing brows. Blend with the spoolie for a natural, effortless look. This brow pencil comes in eight shades from blond to almost black.

8. Seen Magic Hair Care Serum

After all the summer sun, swimming, and stress, hair needs a little bit of help to recover. Seen Magic Serum can help make hair smoother, shinier, and healthier looking. You can use it on wet or dry hair and a few drops will go a long way. Seen hair products were created by a dermatologist and boast that they are the answer to breakouts caused by certain pore-clogging ingredients found in shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums.

9. Natasha Denona Retro Eyeshadow Palette

Don’t let the name fool you. Although it says retro, this palette consists of some fun rosy shades with both a matte and shimmer finish. This midi-sized, eyeshadow palette features 15 romantic burgundy and mauve shades combined with gray-browns, taupes, dusty roses, and vintage pinks. Perfect to create a soft romantic look or even something a little bolder.

10. Sephora Collection Season to Sparkle 8 Piece Makeup Brush Set

Good makeup brushes don’t need to cost a fortune so if you’re thinking it’s time to replace yours then this awesome set from Sephora is the way to go. Not only are they pretty but they have everything you need for a full-face makeup look. Plus it comes with a bright red pouch to help keep you organized. This set includes eight brushes, each made with synthetic, vegan bristles that are soft and cruelty-free, perfect for any formula type.

11. EOS Whipped Pumpkin Latte Shea Lip Balm

If you’re trying to figure out how you can incorporate anything else pumpkin into your life then look no further. EOS has put out a limited edition Whipped Pumpkin Latte shea butter lip balm and it smells SO good! This set contains two lip balms, one in stick form and the other in the EOS sphere. Keep, share, or hide from your kids so they won’t use it all, it’s completely up to you what you do with them.

12. Stride Foot Peel Masks

Sandal and flip flop season can be hard on your feet. This foot peel mask will help remove dead and callused skin. While the benefits may take a few days to fully show, these foot masks, well actually socks, get the natural process of foot shedding underway. After wearing the socks for 60 minutes your feet will start to peel revealing soft, smooth skin. This product is recommended for use only if you have thick skin on your feet. If you have more questions, be sure to read the FAQ on the website.

13. ColourPop Fresh Kiss Lip Crème

ColourPop’s Fresh Kiss Lip Crème has a lush hybrid formula that combines the color of a lipstick with the care of a lip balm. It delivers comfortable color with a creamy matte finish for ultra-smooth, kissable lips. This Lip Crème comes in eight new shades perfect for fall.

14. Kristin Ess Scrunchies

Scrunchies are still going strong and these new ones from Kristin Ess are super adorable! I’m loving the oversized cheetah scrunchie as a fun way to keep your hair out of your face, especially when rocking your fall scarves. If you want something a little more subtle, then try her skinnies which come in both satin and velvet.

15. Clinique Cheek Pop™ Pearl

You may be losing your summer tan but that doesn’t mean you have to lose your glow. Clinique’s new Cheek Pop™ Pearl is a hybrid blush and highlighter that creates a smooth, shimmer with buildable watercolor-like pigments. It comes in six different shades and can be worn alone or layered to create different looks.

16. Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara

This new mascara by Rare Beauty boasts amazing curling, lengthening, and volumizing capabilities no matter what kind of lashes you have. Plus it’s paraben-free, vegan, and cruelty-free. It comes in both a full size and a mini size which is perfect for your travel bag or if you’re just someone like me who can never get through mascara before its expiration date.

17. Mac Studio Fix Mattifine Primer

Give your makeup some staying power with MAC’s new Studio Fix Mattefine Primer. Not only will this help prep skin for your makeup by reducing the appearance of pores and improving skin’s texture, but it also helps control oil and shine for up to 12 hours.

18. Origins Merry Mask Minis

Nothing like a mini facial to make you feel pampered and with Origins Merry Mask Minis you can try a different one every night! Perfect for all skin types, these clean beauty masks will have you feeling refreshed and bring life back to dull skin. My favorite is the Out of Trouble™ 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin but I’m excited to try the Drink Up™ Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask with Avocado & Swiss Glacier Water especially as we get into the cold weather.

19. NARS Climax Liquid Eyeliner

While black liquid eyeliner may not be groundbreakingly new, the new NARS Climax Liquid Eyeliner’s claim to fame is its staying power, 16 hours worth to be precise. It’s both smudge-resistant and waterproof and comes in a matte black formula. The brush makes it super easy to apply and create a variety of lined looks from soft and subtle to winged and dramatic.

20. Lay-N-Go Cosmo Cosmetic Bag

I know this isn’t necessarily a new product for fall, but with the holidays coming up there’s a chance for some travel and if you don’t have a great travel makeup bag then this is one to consider. With this bag, you’re able to easily layout all your cosmetics in an organized way and then just as easily gather everything up without missing a beat. It comes in solid colors and fun prints as well as three different sizes. Plus it’s the travel makeup bag Alison swears by.

You’re Turn! What beauty products are you excited to try this fall?