Category Archives: Beauty Tips & Tricks

summer beauty favorites

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summerbeautyfavorites summer beauty favorites

 

If you ask me, summer is the best time to go natural with your beauty routine. With the exception of some sweaty moments, you’re probably at your prettiest–a little tan, glowy–and most important, relaxed and happy. My regimen for summer is definitely paired down drastically–less products and covering up, more accentuating. Stay inside and coat on makeup? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Here are some of my faves:

 

summerhair summer beauty favorites

hair1 summer beauty favorites

Turban, Anthropologie | Surf Spray, Bumble and Bumble | Beach Spray, Brooklyn Beach Hair

 

Through trial and error, I’ve learned there’s no saving my hair during summer. It will be crazy curly, frizzy and a bit unruly, so I might as well embrace it. Fun headbands and turbans (like the Anthro one I wore here) are a must for days spent on the beach or wandering around the city (does anyone else hate when your hair sticks to your neck? Ugh!). Another necessity? Surf spray! I love Bumble and Bumble’s version, as well as the NYC-grown beach spray from Brooklyn Beach Hair. Both give great texture that can only be mimiced by a quick dunk in the ocean. I also love layering on leave-in-conditioner (like this Ouidad one) pre-ocean soak to save my strands from certain death (or, OK–just from drying out…).

 

 

summerskin summer beauty favorites

skin1 summer beauty favorites

Sunscreen, Neutrogena | Scrub, Sabon | Self Tanner, Origins

Let’s just put out there what we all know–skin cancer is no joke. I had a few bad sunburns growing up, so now I’m extra-dilligent with my sun safety. My only gripe with sunscreen? It always made me break out! It wasn’t until I tried out this Neutrogena version that I finally found a product that works for me, and now I refuse to use anything else. To still get a healthy St. Barths-type glow without the danger, self tanner is a must. I have to admit I haven’t always been that skilled with self tanner–it can be tough! One thing I’ve learned is you need to always exfoliate beforehand. I love Sabon’s body scrub for exactly that reason–it’s super moisturizing and all the scents are incredible (plus, if you go into the store, they give you a free luxe hand washing session). Post-scrub down, layer on a tinted tanning lotion (I find it helps me keep it even if I can see where I’m coating), like Origins’ Shimmery self tanner, for the perfect faux glow. No Snooki here!

 

summermakeup summer beauty favorites

summermakeupproducts summer beauty favorites

Cheek Gel, Bobbi Brown | Moisturizer, Boscia | Bronzer, Benefit 

 

I love how little makeup I feel like I need to wear in the summer. Give me a bit of a glow and a rosy cheek and I feel ready for the beach or a night out. Bobbi Brown’s new cheek pots are amazing–they’re light and airy, so the look is effortlessly natural, and perfectly at home mid-summer (no strange shimmer here!). Boscia’s moisturizer is packed with SPF, so it’s a beauty double-whammy. Don’t think you don’t have to moisturize during the summer–it make be hot out, but your skin still needs a little help! Last, meet my new best friend, Benefit’s Hoola bronzer. It’s perfect for contouring and the color isn’t orangey–which is my worst nightmare.

 

What are you summer beauty must-haves? Do you keep it simple or just switch up your products?

 

 

 

jose eber hair curling wand [+] giveaway

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jose eber hair curling wand [+] giveaway

 

If you caught my tutorial yesterday, you know that I’m pretty much obsessed with my Jose Eber curling wand. I’ve long wrestled with my naturally curly hair, and it wasn’t until I bought a Jose Eber wand about a year ago (in pink, naturally) that I really got my method for loose, undone waves down pat. The great thing about their newer tripple barrel iron (which I use now) is how straightforward and easy it is to create whatever style you want–beach waves, tight ringlets or loose curls. One styling session with this baby, and I promise you’ll never go back!

 

The crew over at Jose Eber is generous enough to give one lucky reader of The Glossy Life their very own Trio Clipless Curling Iron–simply enter for your chance to win in the rafflecopter below between now and May 8, 2013. Can’t wait that long? No worries! Head on over to their site and pick out a few goodies for yourself–everything is 15% off with the code GlossyLife15!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

short waves hair tutorial

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Loose Waves Tutorial from Alyssa Longobucco on Vimeo.

 

As you can see from spending a little time around here, there’s a hairstyle I tend to stick to quite often, and that is loose, messy waves. Ever since I was little, I’ve had very curly hair, so styling it into smooth waves seems at once more polished and still true to myself.

 

I did a tutorial about a year back on how I did my hair when it was a bit longer, but my strategy is different after the big chop–as every short-haired gal knows, it’s important to conserve length when you can, so that’s my number one aim while curling my hair now, while still giving it body and texture.

 

My secret weapon? The Jose Eber curling wands. You guys, these things are no joke. I’m pretty sure every girl needs one in her beauty arsenal–they create lasting curls that look super natural, without damaging my hair. I’ve been a fan since my first tutorial (that bright pink baby was the best thing I’ve ever bought!) and the folks over at Jose Eber were kind enough to send me over another iron to try out, so that’s what I’m using here. The great thing is it comes with three different sized barrels, so achieving just the right wave for your style is pretty much a given.

 

I hope you guys enjoy the tutorial! I tried to make it as simple, helpful and least dorky as possible (not sure if I achieved that last one). Any questions about products you see or tips you hear, just let me know! And if you have a great tip you didn’t hear here, do share–I want to know!

Also, head on over this way and enter for a chance to win your own Jose Eber Curling Wand!

By the way, I’m using: Jose Eber Curling wand (℅) | Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo |  Fekkai Coiff Defense | Fekkai Sheer Hold Hair Spray

 

 

 

guest post: spring nail envy

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The lovely Maya from Charmingly Styled is popping by today to fill in while I’m gone–enjoy, and make sure you pay her a visit–you won’t regret it! xo

 

Maya here from Charmingly Styled sharing some nail envy on The Glossy Life while Alyssa’s on vacation this week! I’m a huge fan of Alyssa’s fabulous blog, so I’m excited to be sharing my current nail obsessions here today!

Although I try to keep my looks as polished as possible, sometimes my attention to details falls by the wayside (specifically my nails). One thing that keeps my nails interesting is staying inspired by new looks and color trends.

Below are some of my favorites nail colors and obsessions for spring! I’m loving the white nail trend, like this reverse French manicure with black accents to mix it up. Pretty pastels are a perfect for a softer look, and pink is always my go to year round. Lastly, who can resist a perfect red nail polish for a more classic look?

nailenvy guest post: spring nail envy

1//2//3//4//5//6//

 

Thanks for letting me stop by today, Alyssa!

 

 

so you’ve got a pimple…

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pimple1 so youve got a pimple...

 

So, you’ve got a pimple….let’s just all join in on a collective “ugh” why don’t we? But wait–before you go searching for your L.L. Bean backpack and Lisa Frank folders, know this–pimps are not just for awkward middle schoolers. It’s true that this skin nuisiance hangs around long after your teen years, but you should be treating it much differently than you did at 13. Here’s the 411:

 

pimplewhy so youve got a pimple...

 

While teenage acne usually stems from a change in hormones, adult acne can be caused by a number of things: stress, lack of sleep, environmental factors, your period, even your diet (curse them all I say). If you’re experiencing regular breakouts, try pinpointing the issue–is your diet rich in dairy? If so, loading up on foods with low-glycemic ratings (think whole grains, fruits and veggies) can switch things around fairly quickly. Do you skip washing your face when you get home (you sinful girl, you)? Oil and debris can clog your pores on a daily basis–you need to get that gunk out, girlfriend! Once you have a better idea of what’s causing your ahem, issue, it’ll be easier to treat.

 

pimpletreat so youve got a pimple...

pimpletreatpro so youve got a pimple...

1. St. Ives Scrub | 2. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion | 3. Yes to Tomatoes Acne Roller | 4. Clinique Ance Solution Spot Healing Gel | 5. Kate Somerville Pimple Punisher

The good news? Acne make be annoying, but it’s easily treatable (in most cases!). First, you want to look for a scrub–it’s important to turn the surface of your skin around on a regular basis, ladies! I love St. Ives’ scrub–it’s gentle enough that it doesn’t dry me out, but the results are visible. Next, look for a spot treatment containing salicylic acid–dry that guy right up. I can’t stress this enough: only put medication on the areas that are experiencing a breakout. Slathering it all over the rest of your face only does two things: a) dries out the rest of your skin and b) wastes the (s’cuse my French) shit out of your product. Save the time, money and moisture!

pimplehide so youve got a pimple...

pimplecoverpro so youve got a pimple...

1. Smashbox Camera Ready Coverage Concealer | 2. Covegirl Invisible Concealer | 3. Bare Minerals SPF 20 Concealer | 4. Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage | 5. NARS Concealer

Unfortunately, life doesn’t come to a screeching halt at the first sigh of a pimple (but um, it totally should, right?). Until they come up with a little something I like to call “pimple sick day,” you should probably add a few fool-proof concealers to your beauty arsenal  My fave? Smashbox’s Camera Ready Coverage–it goes on like a dream (no cakey issues here!) and lasts for-ev-er. I’ve had my stick for over a year now, and I’m still only halfway done. Whatever product you choose, make sure it packs maximum coverage with minimal “weight.” You don’t want to re-clog your pore!

pimpletreat so youve got a pimple...

So you’ve tamed the beast–this time around–but how do you keep them from coming back? While you can’t control everything about breakouts, there are a few things you should always or never do. Always wash your face after a workout or long day. Never sleep with your makeup on (“That’s like, the rules of feminism.” Second Mean Girls reference in two days–boom.). Always moisturize–having overly dry skin can cause your body to produce excess oil in an attempt to hydrate itself, which in turn causes–you guessed it–pimples. Never squeeze a pimple–at least, try not to. If you do, make sure you clean your face and hands thoroughly then squeeze lightly with a tissue over both fingers.

How about you? What pimple-fighting tips do you have in your back pocket?

short styles: the neon bobby

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IMG 1902 short styles: the neon bobby

 

As some of you may have noticed (and sweetly commented on!), I recently chopped my hair–big time. With over seven inches gone, it soon became fairly evident (over a few blow-drying freak outs) that some of my go-to styles were no longer possible. I sadly waved goodbye to my ol’ faithful top knot and ventured into the great unknown.

 

And so began the quest for cute short hairstyles, past the typical undone wave look I do. Because there’s not a ton out there for short hair, I figured I’d share anything good I came up with on here on the off chance that some of you short haired gals are in the same pickle. Enter my first ‘do–the neon bobby.

 

IMG 1907 short styles: the neon bobby

 

You’ll need:

 

  • 8 bobby pins, preferably in a bright color (I picked these up from Sephora)
  • Patience
  • Skillful bobby pin mastery

 

bobbytwo short styles: the neon bobby

 

Insert the bobby pins rigid side down (did you know that’s the way it’s supposed to go?!) into the front part of your hair, pining back the area where you either have bangs, or bangs would reside.

 

IMG 1932 short styles: the neon bobby

 

Create a row of three, evenly spaced, and then add an additional bobby going diagonally across the trio.

 

bobbythree short styles: the neon bobby

 

Move toward the back of your head about one inch and create an X with the bobby pins. Repeat again another inch back.

 

IMG 1945 short styles: the neon bobby

 

 

And there you have it! All it really consists of is a few bobby pins, but it’s a fun way to jazz up your hair when the length doesn’t allow for something fancy like a double fishtail tripple axel twist top knot. You know, that old thing…

 

IMG 1956 short styles: the neon bobby

 

 

 

be a date night beauty

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be a date night beauty

source: Liz Von Hoene for Nordstroms 

 

We’re going to talk about date looks, but trust me when I say we’re not going to talk about the whole “here are beauty looks guys like so do this” thing. I’m a firm believer in wearing and rocking what you like–trust me when I tell you the guy you like will love it either way.

 

We are, however, going to talk about not overdoing it on Valentine’s Day–or any other date night. It hurts my heart when I see otherwise gorgeous girls caking on the foundation and piling on the bronzer for a night out with their guy, only to find that the cute-in-the-movies head on the shoulder moment turns not so cute when your guy’s shirt becomes orange. This Valentine’s Day, opt for a little sumthin’ sumthin’ like this:

 

romantichair be a date night beauty

Romantic, Retro Waves: These pretty curls are a step up from a normal straight or tousled look, but they stay out of that “too dolled up” territory. Keep ‘em soft and simple, and please–go easy on the hairspray. No guy wants to hear a distinct crunch when they go in for a hug! If you’re looking for a simple, easy tutorial, The Beauty Department has a great one. I plan on trying it myself for the blog once my hair grows a few inches (sigh!).

 

beautyromantic be a date night beauty

Soft, Pretty Makeup: When in doubt, go natural. A guy is out on a date with you to see you, not you and your entire Sephora collection. Choose a glow-y foundation (I love Make Up Forever’s Invisible Cover Foundation), a touch of blush and a good dose of mascara and you’re set. If you’re a perfume girl, spritz it on, don’t soak in it. And because I’ve never met a guy who looks good with a red lip (unless it’s from a 7-Eleven slushy), don’t rock a serious shade if you plan on a little kissing (which uh, you should). Go natural with a light cream lipstick or tint–something like Revlon’s Just Bitten Stain in Sweetheart is perfect!

 

What are your date beauty do’s and don’ts? Do share!

 

winter beauty essentials

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winterbeautyskin1 winter beauty essentials

 

Winter is always a tough beauty month–there’s no dewey complexion or glow-y skin like in the summer. Instead, it’s all dry flakes and lackluster hair…not really ideal if you ask me. We’re all just doin’ the best we can until spring hits, right? Here are a few products I rely on to get me through!

Face

1. Clinique Moisture Surge Intense- My skin is easily irritated and a lot of the time when I use moisturizer, I break out. This Clinique savior is one of the first I’ve been able to use consistently with no skin repercussions. I swear, I’m never giving it up!

2. Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask- I’m a huge fan of face masks–I love the results they (usually) have, even if it means walking around looking a little crazy for a half hour. Fresh products have always treated me well, so when I spotted this mask in Sephora at the beginning of the season, it went straight to the top of my must-try list. Turns out, it makes your pores literally non-existent. Seriously.

3. NARS The Multiple- This little guy is the newest addition to my makeup collection and let me tell you–it is amazing. I tend to get very pasty in the winter months. This cream stick adds the perfect amount of glow and flush to my cheeks–I look like I just got back from a weekend in Miami (can’t hate that!).

4. Eyeko Skinny Brush Mascara- I work next door to a Sephora–it’s an issue. One day after work, I stopped in for a little makeup touch-up before an unexpected cocktail date (hey, a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do!) and walked out having almost spent my entire rent. This mascara was one of the things that came home with me and it became a quick favorite. It makes lashes long and thick, and it’s even vegan!

5. Lush Lip Scrub- If you’re not into making your own lip scrub (which is actually really easy!), this Lush product is the way to go. I don’t know a single girl who doesn’t suffer from chapped lips in the winter, and a scrub like this is a great way to keep them at bay so you can rock a bold red lip! I keep mine in the shower so I never forget to use it.

 

winterhaircollage winter beauty essentials

 

1. Fekkai Coif Hairspray- I love styling my hair in loose waves (check out my tutorial here!), but hate (hate, hate!) the stiff feeling that some hairsprays leave behind. I was on the hunt for a product that delivers hold, but not crunch and this spray does exactly that. Bonus: it smells amazing!

2. L’Oreal Ever Pure Moisture Mask- Just like face masks, hair masks are a must–especially if you have curly hair like I do, which is especially prone to drying out. I try to use this a couple times a month, if only so my hair can smell like rosemary and mint for the entire day.

3.The Body Shop Detangling Comb- A detangling comb is a MUST for smoothing out your hair post-shower–please, please, please do not use a brush! I learned the hard way that this can cause serious damage…and I have the baby hairs growing in to prove it!

4. Josie Maran Argan Oil Treatment- I raved about these miracle workers in my post about hair oils, and my obsession is still holding strong. I don’t know how it happens, but these little capsules magically heat up once you crack them open (seriously, it’s so cool it baffles me). Coat your hair and leave on for ten minutes–rinse and enjoy your newly-revitalized mane!

 

winterbeautynails winter beauty essentials

 

1. Shea Butter Hand Cream- It doesn’t matter if you’re holding hands with a handsome guy this winter or not–cracked, scaly skin is so not cute. I always have one tube of L’Occitane’s hand cream in my purse at all times–I’m constantly lathering up in the winter!

2. Burt’s Bees Cuticle Cream- I have a terrible habit of picking at my cuticles when I’m nervous or stressed. It can be pretty embarrassing–and it stops me from taking pictures of cute manis! Dry cuticles in the winter only compounds things, so keeping them as hydrated as possible helps with my nervous nelly habit. Like all other Burt’s Bees products, this one is fabulous!

3. Essie nail polish- I mean, Essie polish–need a say more? A few favorite colors I’m painting on recently (from left to right): Armed and Ready, Masquerade Belle, Miss Fancy Pants and Midnight Cami.

What are your must-have beauty products during the winter?

pretty holiday makeup looks

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shinecollage pretty holiday makeup looks
The best part of the holiday season (besides the food, of course) is dressing up for parties. I mean, how fun is it to be a girl these days?! With an unlimited amount of sparkle at our fingertips, the holidays are the perfect excuse to get a little extra fancy-pants. A perfect place to throw caution to the wind? Your makeup! Now’s the time to try that bold lip trend you’ve been eyeing, or paint on an extra coat (or three) of mascara. Here are a few pretty looks to help you shine, sparkle and smolder at every party you show up to this month. You can find me–at the dessert table–rocking a red lip!
sparklecollage copy pretty holiday makeup looks
smouldercollage copy pretty holiday makeup looks
What is your favorite holiday makeup look?

weekend brunch

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IMG 0336 Version 2 weekend brunch

Sweater Gap, Peter Pan Collared Shirt Joe Fresh, Pants J. Crew, Oxford Shoes DSW (similar), Lipstick MAC’s “Russian Red”

No one ever told me that in New York City, brunch is an institution. A right of passage. The thing you’ll schedule second only to a long nap on your weekends in the city. I love breakfast as much as the next person, but guys…I did not know about brunch being a big deal.

But now? I totally get it. I mean really, if you tell me you don’t want to lazy about on a Saturday morning drinking mimosas and eating eggs with your friends, I might have to tell you you’re crazy. These brunch folk–they’re on to something.

IMG 0340 Version 2 weekend brunch

IMG 0345 Version 2 weekend brunch

IMG 0361 Version 2 weekend brunch

Belt J. Crew

Cozy Saturday brunch called for an equally comfortable outfit in the form of a chunky wool sweater, bright pants and simple (but fun) accessories. To me, these red pants say “I put just enough thought into this outfit” or, alternatively, “I really can’t wait to eat a bacon egg and cheese.” Both work.

IMG 0351 Version 2 weekend brunch

Flower Ring Kate Spade, Heart Ring and Gold Band Ring Catbird, Watch Michael Kors 

IMG 0354 Version 2 weekend brunch

IMG 0356 Version 2 weekend brunch

Oh, and by the way…that hot chocolate I’m drinking? Red. Velvet. I know.

Mind blown.