Three Makeup Looks Perfect for the HOlidays

Three Makeup Looks Perfect for the HOlidays

by Jennifer Hoffman of SBN Beauty

I can’t believe Thanksgiving is only ONE day away! It feels like Halloween was just yesterday. I don’t know about you, but I feel like the holidays just fly by quicker and quicker each year. Between buying gifts (and worrying about them not shipping in time), cooking, baking, preparing the house for guests, attending parties, and children’s programs, the LAST thing we often think about is how we’re going to wear our makeup for those picture-perfect holiday events. The only thing worse than feeling like you have nothing to wear is feeling like you don’t know how to wear your makeup and make it work for you! Makeup is my favorite accessory (yes it counts as an accessory) because there are SO many different ways to change up the look of your outfit with it, from everyday chic to full-on glam. Even the tones you wear can make a huge impact on your overall look. Let’s dive into three holiday makeup looks ANYONE can do, from makeup beginners to makeup mavens! 

Look #1

The Cookie Exchange (Daytime Shimmer)

Let’s start with a casual daytime look. When attending a holiday event during the day, such as a cookie exchange – my personal favorite, you’ll want to keep your makeup more neutral but add a little something special. My favorite way to do this is with shimmer! I know what you’re thinking- “but can I wear shimmer if I’m over the age of 18?” I’m here to tell you that yes, you CAN. You just have to wear it in the right places on your face. My two favorite ways to do this are with eyeshadow & illuminator. Below are some steps to achieve a daytime shimmer look.

Step 1

Apply your routine daytime makeup look using foundation, blush, and neutral lip color that you love. A dewy bb cream or foundation is best for this look.

Step 2

Apply a basic midshade eyeshadow in your crease and a deeper shade in the outer V if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 3

Shimmer time! The easiest way to apply shimmer eyeshadow is with your finger! I apply it on the lid, brow bone, and inner corner of the eye. I like a darker shade on the lid and a lighter shade on the inner corner and brow bone, but it’s all preference! Below are some great shimmer eyeshadows plus what I’m wearing.

Tip: Apply a white base like NYX White Eyeshadow Base on the areas you are going to apply shimmer for a true-to-color look and to prevent fall out! You can also use a concealer as I show HERE!

Seint Eyeshadow in Glass Slipper / Seint Eyeshadow in #33

Tarte Sugar Rush™ Goals Goals Goals Eyeshadow Palette

Physicians Formula Extreme Shimmer Shadow Nude Palette

ULTA Lustrous Foil Eyeshadow

Step 4

Apply shimmer to the tops of cheekbones, cupid’s bow (right above the middle of your top lip), and the tip of the nose – anywhere you want a little extra glow. I recommend using a cream illuminator like Soft Focus Glow by Milani for this step or a cream shimmer eyeshadow. It works much better with any fine lines or wrinkles.

Tip: AVOID adding highlighter to crow’s feet and fine lines, or any areas you don’t want to draw attention to.

Wet n Wild MegaGlo Liquid Highlighter

Milani Soft Focus Glow Enhancer

Final HOliday Makeup Look

Here are some examples of how you can play with different shimmer colors for a variety of looks!

Look #2

The Holiday Cocktail Party 

Dressy holiday parties in the evening usually require a little more oomph from your makeup. We always want our makeup to match the “fancy” level of our outfit to keep it streamlined. The easiest way to do this: wear a bold lip! No, it doesn’t have to be red but red is fun! The great part is, you can transition to this look from the daytime look I did above if you have two events in one day, especially since we didn’t go heavy on the eyes.

Tip: Pick ONE feature to go bold on so you don’t look like “a clown” as many women say.

Step 1

Put on your daytime shimmer makeup look detailed above.

Step 2

Add a bold lip! It can be red, berry, fuschia, whatever vibe you love that makes you feel beautiful!

Tip: To choose your perfect red, pick one with the OPPOSITE undertones of your lips (aka blue undertones choose an orange-based red).

shu uemura rouge unlimited lacquer shine

MAC Lipstick in Heat Wave

Step 3

Contour or line your lips. You can use a cream bronzer, cream contour, or lip pencil to do this. It will help keep your lip color on and keep it from going outside your lip line. You can do this before or after you add lip color – either way works! Here’s a tutorial showing you how to get a dimensional lip.

Tip: If you’re terrified of a bold lip, try a sheer gloss or balm. You’ll still get the difference in color to accessorize your look but without it being quite so bright.

NYC Slim Lip Pencil in Natural

Final Holiday makeup Look

look #3

Holiday Family Photos

The dreaded family photos. We all hate taking them, but we love the results so it’s worth spending a little extra time on this look. This is not the time to do your 5-minute makeup. Details matter when it comes to photo makeup. We’re going to use some tips from both looks for this, and when it comes to photo makeup: More is more. The camera washes everything out so we have to add that dimension back in ourselves. To get that picture-perfect look:

Tip: While you’re doing your makeup, check it in your phone camera instead of your mirror. This will show you how it will actually look in photos and if you need to add more or blend better.

1. Sunless Tanner

Start with a tan. A golden glow will really keep you from looking washed out in photos. My favorite facial tanner Coola’s Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Face Serum is this one and for body and decolletage, I like Express Tan Water by Tanologist. This can be done a few nights before your pictures. However, if you aren’t familiar with using a sunless tanner I suggest doing a test run a week or so before to make sure you have the right shade. Sunless tanners last about 5-7 days so if you don’t like it, it will be gone before your photo.

2. Give Hair some volume

Give your hair some extra bounce! Hair also loses volume in photos. The Voloom Classic 1-1/2 Inch Professional Volumizing Hair Iron is the easiest way to achieve this!

Voloom Classic 1-1/2 Inch Professional Volumizing Hair Iron

3. Skip SPF

This goes against my typical skincare advice, but on picture day skip the SPF. It actually causes a flash in the photos. But for all intents and purposes, SPF should be a daily part of your skincare routine to protect your skin, just not on picture day.

4. add some Contour

You may not want to but you need some contouring in photos! This will help create dimension. Use a deeper shade for photos than you normally would or it won’t pick up. Check out my video on contouring HERE!

5. Next some blush

Just like adding layers to your outfit is great for adding dimension to your pictures, adding layers to your face adds dimension as well. So don’t skip the blush! Even a nude shade is fine. Blush will help add depth and dimension to your photos.  

6. Give Yourself Some Color

If you used a sunless tanner as suggested in step one you may be tempted to skip this step but adding a touch of bronzer will help you avoid that washed-out look. And if you didn’t use a sunless tanner, this is an easy way to add a warm glow to your face. I prefer a cream but use whatever you have!

7. Shimmer Can Equal Shine

Go easy on the shimmers for this look. You can wear some, but too much may reflect light off of the flash of the camera.

8. Lashes

Thicken your lashline! This is one of the most important aspects of your photo makeup look. I like to use my L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner in Black to tight line my eyes and add depth, and then just add your favorite mascara! I use Superhero Elastic Stretch Volumizing & Lengthening Mascara by IT Cosmetics for mega volume. If you want some extra dimension, wear some false lashes. I suggest practicing with them a few times first if you’re not totally comfortable using them. I wear KISS Looks So Natural False Eyelashes and the glue I use is by House of Lashes.

KISS Looks So Natural False Eyelashes / House of Lashes.

9. Light Bright

Add a brighter concealer under your eye. This will give you a glow and add dimension. 

10. Finally the lips

Contour or line your lips, especially if you’re wearing a nude lip, so they don’t get washed out (see step 3 from Look #2).

Final Holiday Makeup Look

With these looks and tips, you’ll be ready for any holiday event life throws at you this season! Remember- just like we look through our closet first with clothes, look through your makeup bag first and use what you have! You may be surprised! Happy holidays!

About Jen

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!

Men’s Gift Giving Guide 2021

Men’s Gift Giving Guide 2021

by Jessica Pigza

I admit, every year I struggle with what to get the men in my life. I like my gifts to be fun, useful, and sometimes practical. As we all work so hard to pare down on the amount of stuff we have, I try really hard to make sure my gifts don’t end up in a closet somewhere, forgotten, and eventually donated. That’s why I’ve taken great care in curating a men’s gift-giving guide that has something for every man on your list from the fun to the practical. I hope this helps you check some people off your list and get that much closer to being able to relax over the holidays!

1. Dr. Squatch

My husband was given a bar of soap to try from a friend on a camping trip. Ever since then he’s been hooked, as is my son. This is the first soap that doesn’t dry out his skin, smells great, and it’s all-natural. Not only do they have soap but they have deodorant, toothpaste, and hair care. They have different gift sets and bundles available and offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Plus if Dr. Squatch soap becomes a staple in your house as it has mine, you can set up auto-ship and receive a discount on your order!

2. MSTJRY Charging Station for Multiple Devices

Help him keep all his devices neat and charged with this all in one charging station. Available with an array of charging cord options, this unit works with Apple or Andriod products. It has six ports and the short cords ensure that they won’t get tangled. The best part is this unit works off a single plug so he won’t have to monopolize all the plugs to charge his gadgets.

3. True Classic

Just like we are on the hunt for the perfect tees, men are no different. Enter in the True Classic brand. They have shirts that are a bit more fitted and provide a more flattering sillhoute. They help accentuate the men’s arms and shoulders without looking like a shapeless box. Plus they are super soft! In addition to plain long and short sleeve tees, they also have joggers, underwear, hoodies, and henleys. Plus every purchase goes to help homeless vets get shelter.

4. THE TILE

Eliminate wasted time looking for lost keys, cell phones, wallets, remote controls and more with the simple to use Tile and app. Simply attach one of the different models of the Tile to the items of your choice and easily located it using Bluetooth technology and an app on your phone. You can also use the Tile in reverse to locate your phone, even if it’s on silent. I can’t even pretend this is just a great gift for the guys, because I can think of a few ways this could make my life easier as well.

5. Shady Rays

I don’t know about your man but if he’s anything like mine, his sunglasses are scratched up from being tossed around and dropped. It’s hard to justify spending a lot of money on something that doesn’t really get taken care of but that’s when I discovered Shady Rays. Not only are these sunglasses durable, but they come in a variety of styles and colors. The best part is they offer free returns or exchanges so there’s no risk. Now, this is really the best part, they offer free replacements on lost and broken sunglasses, just pay shipping. I’ve already taken advantage of this deal for my husband and it couldn’t be an easier process. Plus each pair sold equals 10 meals donated through Feeding America. They also have some awesome shades for the ladies so while you’re at it, pick up a pair for yourself. You’ll be happy you did!

6. Cotopaxi ALLPA TRAVEL PACK

For the guy on the go and who wants something truly unique, I recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel bag. They come in a variety of color combinations and no two are the same. Cotopaxi boasts products that are well made and leave behind a small footprint. All products in their (Re)Purpose™ Collection use fabric leftover from other companies’ larger production runs. We take high-quality, remnant fabric originally produced for another purpose to create these products. Every (Re)Purpose™ product keeps fabric out of the landfill and puts it in the hands of thoughtful adventurers like you.

7. Bose SoundLink Color Bluetooth® speaker II

Perfect for taking his tunes anywhere, the Bose SoundLink Color Bluetooth® speaker II is small but tough and water-resistant making it perfect for camping, the lake, or even the back yard. Featuring a soft-touch silicone exterior and a built-in microphone for calls, plus a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides him up to 8 hours of playtime. Use two or more Bose Home Speakers together with the app to play them all in perfect sync to keep the party going. This speaker is available in four colors.

8. MASTERCLASS

If he loves to learn new things then why not give the gift of classes taught by leaders in their industry all from the comforts of home with MasterClassMasterClass offers 90+ classes across a variety of categories, including business and leadership, photography, cooking, writing, acting, music, sports, and more. Every class has been designed to be accessible for people with little to no experience and advanced students alike. With new classes launching regularly, they can learn practical skills, ignite new passions, and get everyday wisdom. Plus they are offering a 2 for 1 holiday special now thru November 29th.

9. Where to Drink Coffee

For the coffee lover, the Where to Drink Coffee book is perfect to know where to find the best cup of joe anywhere in the world. The best 150 baristas and coffee experts share their secrets – 600 spots across 50 countries – revealing where they go for coffee throughout the world. Places chosen range from cafés, bakeries, and restaurants to some more surprising spots, including a video store and an auto shop.

10. The Ultimate BBQ Box by Grill Masters Club

For the king of the grill, The Ultimate BBQ Box by Grill Masters Club is the perfect gift! You can opt for a single box or sign him up for a monthly subscription. Each box includes full sized bottles of BBQ sauce, rubs, spices, wood chips and more. He’ll have everything he needs to make some amazing food on the grill. And of course he’ll need someone to help him taste test his creations. I call this the gift that keeps on giving!

BONUS: EXPERIENCES

Lastly, you can never go wrong with gifting experiences whether it’s dinner out, tickets to their favorite sporting event or a movie. Why not plan a special trip or travel to his favorite restaurant, or place, even if it’s a couple hours away. Make a day of it and have fun! This is a chance to get creative and it doesn’t have to be expensive, just use your imagination and you can create a fun memory that won’t be forgotten!

Double Bonus: Outfit Formulas® Menswear Closet Staples Casule Wardrobe

Give your man the gift of style with the Outfit Formulas® Menswear Closet Staples Casule Wardrobe. This capsule wardrobe builder covering all four seasons plus work wear and athleisure. When you sign up, he’ll get his closet staples shopping list plus 76 days of mix and match outfit ideas created from pieces on the list. He’ll never walk into his closet and wonder what to wear again!

Your turn! What’s your go-to gift for the men in your life?

Alison’s Favorites – Gift Giving Guide

Alison’s Favorites – Gift Giving Guide

It’s that time of year for the GYPO annual gift-giving guides! We’re sharing them a little earlier than we normally do but that’s because we’re finding people are trying to finish up their shopping lists as soon as possible allowing for more time to relax as we approach the holidays. So who are you shopping for this year? Below are some of my favorite things and hopefully they’ll help you cross some people off your list!

1. Marc Fisher Women’s Matter Block Heel Booties

White boots are everywhere this fall so I treated myself to these pair by Marc Fisher. I’m not ashamed to admit that I love them even more than I thought! While this particular pair isn’t stark white, they still make a fresh, crisp addition to any outfit. See how I paired these up on last month’s Pretty Fix!

2. Brook & York Willow Layering Set

Monogrammed items are having their moment and if you live down south, it’s never not having a moment. I love the layered look of this necklace paired with the on-trend chain links and monogrammed medallion is not overwhelming. This necklace is available in both gold and silver with multiple fonts available for your initials. Items ship 24 hours from order ensuring they’ll make it in time.


3. Seint Makeup Palette

While I’ve heard a lot about Seint makeup, I’ve never really made the plunge to check it out until I started watching Colette VanPaemel. Then had the honor of talking with her, which you can check out HERE, and seeing how she puts this makeup to work for her is amazing! As we get older I’m learning that cream makeup pairs better with my skin and I love the idea of having all my makeup in one place.


4. UGG® Ansley Water Resistant Slipper

I know this was on my list last year but they are just too good and too comfy for me to not mention them again. After years of spending $20 or so for slippers that never lasted beyond a season, I decided to make the investment and I’m so happy I did! My slippers look just as good as the day I got them and I anticipate enjoying them for many more years!

5. Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug

This is seriously one of the best gifts I’ve ever received! The Ember Temperature control mug keeps my coffee hot all morning long! It comes in two sizes, 10oz and 14oz plus they offer a travel mug. Each mug has a battery to keep your mug hot for hours or use the coaster for all-day temperature control. They even have fun metallic shades available.

6. Alison + Aubrey GOLD CHAIN AND BLACK LEATHER APPLE WATCH BAND

This new Apple watch band from Alison + Aubrey has got to be my favorite! The chunky chains are right on trend and the black leather band gives it a fun edge. This watchband is easily interchangeable plus you can size it by removing links to ensure a perfect fit!

7. Olay Retinol 24 Max Night Face Moisturizer

This nighttime moisturizer makes my face feel amazing in the morning plus it’s gentle and fragrance-free for my sensitive skin. It’s great for the summer but especially for heading into the dryer months. This is my go-to nighttime face cream and the perfect stocking stuffer!


8. Brookstone® Manual Lever Wine Opener

When it’s been a long week, this tool makes getting to my wine so much easier! It has a built-in label cutter, a coated carbon steel corkscrew, and an ergonomic metal level and grip handles. This tool ensures I don’t ruin the cork and it stores nicely in my kitchen drawer.

9. Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2 Running Shoe in Leopard

If you’ve followed me for any time then you know how much I love my Nike running shoes and you know my love for leopard. These shoes are as if Nike was listening to me! My two favorite things combined into one! They are so comfortable and I feel very stylish when I’m working out.

10. Eight Piece Packing Cubes for Travel

For that person who’s always on the go, packing cubes have been an absolute game-changer for me! No longer are my clothes messy and unorganized when I open my suitcase. I know exactly where things are and they help me plan my outfits and what I’m going to take whenever I travel.

Bonus: The Ultimate Book of Outfit Formulas

For the woman who has a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear. I was that woman, I was in a clothing rut and the effect coming out of that rut has had on my life is indescribable. I want that for every woman! I want them to feel comfortable and confident no matter what! I believe every woman should feel fabulous in what they wear which is why I wrote this book. It’s the perfect gift for any woman on your list who deserves to feel her very best!

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?

Pretty Fix – 90s Remix

Pretty Fix – 90s Remix

Time has taught us that when it comes to fashion and trends, what was once old is now new again. This fall is no exception. To say this month’s Pretty Fix is not a little grunge-inspired would be a lie but it does have a sophisticated twist. That sophisticated twist is pairing this look with my newly acquired white ankle boots. Now before you dismiss white boots and possibly, but hopefully not, stop reading this post, I urge you to scroll down and have a look for yourself. White boots were way out of my comfort zone as I’m sure they are for a lot of people, but they have been so much fun to pair up this fall. If fun white boots aren’t going to be your takeaway from this blog, then you’ll still be able to use the Outfit Formula to make this look all your own.

So just what is the Pretty Fix? It’s where a style a look that contains classic closet staple items sprinkled with a few trends. The trend pieces are an easy way to update your closet for the season or you can even skip them altogether. With Outfit Formulas® you’re able to easily sub in classic pieces for the trends or just pick the trends you want to add. For this particular look, I kept it classic using black and white then added a pop of color with the handbag choice. I always recommend shopping your closet first to see what you already have, but if you have any gaps, I also provide options to help you shop. Now let’s check out this month’s Pretty Fix!

Plaid Button-Down + Solid Top + Black Bottoms + White Shoes

1. Plaid Button-Down

Oh, the plaid button-down. It’s truly a classic but its silhouette can change how we style this item. This fall the trend is more of a slightly boyfriend cut button-down that is reminiscent of 90s grunge but with a lot less headbanging. I kept this look classic by opting for a black and white plaid but any color combination will work. Another variation of the plaid button-down I’m seeing is a shirt-jacket also known as a shacket which is a little heavier. While you want this shirt to look more relaxed you also don’t want it to swallow you up. There is such a thing as too big. Also, if this oversized look is not for you, then simply opt for a more fitted plaid button-down that has a shorter hem making it easier to do a whole or half tuck.

2. Black Top

No matter what style you pick, v-neck, tank, or long sleeve, a black top is a year-round closet staple. I recently found this one from Amazon and I love it! It comes in a variety of colors and allows me to add some layers and feel like it’s fall. In order for this look to not feel frumpy, you need to select a black top that is a little more fitted or one that you can do a full tuck or half tuck with. This will help balance out the fullness of the plaid button-down to create a more polished look.

3. Black Bottoms

I don’t think black jeans get enough credit. They are super versatile and the washes can vary from true black to washed out black which almost looks gray. For this look though you can style with the black denim as I have or you can swap in some black leggings for an ultra-comfortable, ultra-casual look that still looks polished. If you want to try something even more out of the box, opt for a black skirt or even a solid black dress and use the plaid shirt as a topper and stick with the white shoes. Don’t forget with Outfit Formulas® we give you a guide but there’s enough flexibility that you’re able to make it your own.

4. White Shoes

While any white shoe or even white sneakers will work with this look I found a really cute pair of white/offwhite boots and I’m having so much fun styling them! I know what you’re thinking, white boots, really? They may seem like a retro blast from the past but it’s all in how you style them. They go with a lot more than you think! For more inspiration head over to Pinterest then you can decide if this is something you want to add to your closet this fall.

5. Backpack Handbag

Large totes and backpack handbags are really on-trend this fall. What I love about them is they are pretty practical especially if you are someone who carries a lot of stuff. That being said, they are also stylish. They come in all different sizes and the deep fall colors and rich cognac browns will go with everything in your fall wardrobe and even carry you into the winter. If you’re not quite sure about this trend then opt for a backpack that also has a short strap or crossbody strap option. That way you have the option of wearing it a few different ways.

6. Wrap or Stacked Bracelets

Whether you choose a wrap bracelet or mixing and matching some of your favorites, having a few bracelets on your wrist is on-trend this season. I love picking out a few and putting them together to create different looks but for a quick chunk of ‘wrist candy,’ I opt for my favorite wrap bracelets. They are quick and easy and make a big statement. That being said, don’t think that stacked bracelets have to be big, bulky, and chunky. You can totally add some small, more minimalistic bracelets if that’s more your style. Click here to see more fall accessory trends!

7. Square/Rectangle Hoop Earrings

As you know hoop earrings are a classic and something I wear pretty much all the time. They’re my go-to earrings. This season however I’m giving square/rectangle hoop earrings a try and I am loving them. They are the perfect mix of classic and trend and just like my circle hoops, they go with everything. Plus they are a fun tie-in to the chain-link trend. And there’s are many different styles available, gold, silver, thick, thin, big, small, and even ones with little embellishments on them.

Your turn! What item is your favorite? Will you be trying some White Boots This Fall?