Clear Skin for 2016: My Complete Routine for Clearing Up Breakouts

For the first time since I was about twelve, I am finally happy with my skin. If you have problem skin you know that this can be a very long journey that seems never ending! I still have a lot of acne scarring, but I finally have clear skin. I get the occasional very small pimple but it goes away within 24 hours. My skincare routine is finally working and I am in a very good place! Here is the complete and detailed breakdown of everything I have been doing. This may not work for you, but I've found luck and I feel like it needs to be shared.

MORNING 

Step 1: Cleanse- Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser

With all of the other products in the routine, it's best to use a simple cleanser in the morning that won't dry out your skin. This one is extra gentle and the foaming formula makes it quick and easy to use! 

Step 2: Botanics Rosewater Toning Spritz (available at Target)

This stuff does a great job of prepping your skin for acne treatment and moisturizer. Plus it's quick to use when you're trying to get ready in a hurry. (All of these products are great for me because sometimes I end up having to run out the door but I never want to skip my skincare.) 

Step 3: Avar emollient cream

This is prescription only, but it has helped me so much. This stuff is really responsible for my acne going away so I highly recommend asking your dermatologist about it. It isn't the strongest version of a sulfuric emollient cream so it is less likely to dry you out but is still very effective. 

Step 4: Moisturizer with Sunscreen-my current favorite is the Formula 10.0.6 Picture Perfect Day Moisturizer. 

This doesn't break me out at all and it hydrates while giving you sun protection. With acne medications, you HAVE to use SPF every day and this particular product goes on smoothly over the emollient cream, which is really important. 

All of these things give me a morning routine that focuses on hydration and on being gentle to my skin. You can totally opt for any other cleanser that's gentle or another moisturizer with SPF. 

EVENING

Step 1: Panoxyl Acne Creamy Wash with 4% Benzoyl Peroxide

I have several pieces of advice for those of you that want to use this stuff. First of all, use it in the shower so you don't stain your washcloths or clothing. Benzoyl peroxide will do that! Also, get the 4% version, NOT the 10%. The 10% is super drying and not good for you. The 4% is enough, I promise. This product will help you so much if you struggle with breakouts. 

Step 2: Atralin tretinoin gel

Another prescription product, I'm sorry! But this stuff is great and also a huge factor in preventing acne. I can't say enough good things about it. 

Step 3: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion +

After the benzoyl peroxide wash, you need a super hydrating moisturizer and this is my absolute favorite! Any dryness and flaky skin is gone by the next day. This stuff will save your life. 

The only other suggestion I have is to really utilize mud masks and hydrating masks. They will help soothe your skin after you put it through this crazy process! Also, drinking a lot of water isn't just a myth...it actually helps. 

I hope that you come away from this post with some products to try and some tips you can apply to your own routine! Fighting acne is not easy but it can be improved, especially with the help of a great dermatologist. My first one wasn't as helpful as the one I've been seeing lately so maybe try finding another person in your area if you haven't had luck before.

Love you all and thanks for reading!

Xoxo, Katie

My Simple Holiday Gift Guide for Your Friends and Family

I can't believe how fast Christmas has come this year! We are already two weeks into December and I am shamelessly behind on all my Christmas shopping. However, I have gotten a little bit of work done and I wanted to share with you all some of my ideas and inspiration for what I'm getting my friends and family! (If you are one of my friends or family, I ask that you refrain from reading this particular post. ;) )

1. Piko Shirts

If you live here in the South, you've probably heard of the famous Piko top. If not, let me explain: these tops are tight in the arms and flowy in the body, therefore camouflaging anything you may not want to show off. They are also made of bamboo so they won't shrink and are offered in any color you could want. I'm getting these for several people this year and they will be sure to love them, whether or not they have heard of the brand itself.

2. Everlane Basic Tops
This brand makes the most high quality basic pieces that I have found so far. I want to get some for myself this year since they are so soft. My boyfriend once told me my v-neck felt like a cloud, so I'm hoping to get him some one day! The cotton tops are perfect staples for anyone in your life.

3. Blanket Scarves
These are one of the biggest trends this year! I'm in love with this nude version--I'm obsessed with anything nude, blush, tan or camel and this combines them all! This would be great for your mom or a fashion-forward friend that wants to maintain cuteness and comfortability.

4. Photo Ornaments
For people that require something a little more personal like a grandparent or someone else in your family, these photo ornaments are just right. I got a great deal on some at Michael's and I can't wait to print pictures of me and my loved ones to use for the gift.

5. Park Hill Sweet Tea Candle
This thing smells divine. And the southern lady in your life is sure to be crazy about it! The uniqueness of it makes it extra special.

I hope you enjoyed my holiday gift guide and happy shopping!

xoxo, Katie

DIY Makeup Wipes and Mason Jar Makeup Brush Holders

Maybe it's being a southern girl or being in a sorority, or maybe it's the modern convenience of Pinterest, but lately I have been into all things crafty. I love the adventure of picking out supplies at a craft store to make a cheaper version of what you can simply buy. I also love looking at my latest creation when it all comes together. This post is a mashup of some of the little crafts I've made lately that have made my bathroom my own. 

There are two parts to this post: a recipe for making your own makeup wipes, and how to make these burlap-lace-pearl mason jars to hold your makeup brushes! 

1. DIY Makeup Wipes

Makeup wipes are one of those items that you just can't live without--but they are SO expensive! And I don't know about you, but I go through them super quickly. When I realized it was possible to make them at home, I sped over to the grocery store to pick up the only two ingredients I needed: baby wash and coconut oil. I had no idea that I would end up loving this little recipe as much as I do since I've had several at home beauty products fail miserably in the past. However, this one is totally worth it. It flawlessly removes everything including mascara and the coconut oil hydrates without causing breakouts!  

All you have to do is melt a little bit of the baby wash and coconut oil with 2 cups of water in the microwave. Then pour it over the cotton pads in your mason jar and you're done! I got the chalkboard sticker from Walmart and I love the little rustic touch. 

Here's the link to the recipe I used! 

http://redefinedmom.com/diy-homemade-makeup-remover-pads/#_a5y_p=3568336

2. Mason Jar Makeup Brush Holders

I love everything with burlap, lace and pearls right now. I can't resist anything with that combination. I got this idea from a Pinterest wedding decoration and I realized I could totally make it myself! For materials, you need a roll of burlap material, some lace, bling it pearls (sold at A. C. Moore and they are amazing, your mason jars and a hot glue gun! 

The first step is figuring out where you want all of the parts to go. For my two jars, I put the lace and pearls on in different places to add some variety. You just need to plan ahead a little to decide what to do first. For the jar pictured above, the process was so simple. First I measured out and glued down the two lace strips. Then I wrapped the burlap fabric around twice so it would be opaque and glued it on top. The pearls are adhesive and peel off in strips so they were easy to apply as well!

I hope you enjoy my tips and tricks for making these mason jar crafts! They are super simple and easy even if you don't consider yourself very crafty. I hope you enjoyed this post and happy holidays! 

xoxo, Katie

October Beauty Favorites

This month went by so quickly it seems like a blur in hindsight. I got a new job which has been amazing so far and on Halloween yesterday I ran a 5k that supported local organizations that help veterans! I've also tried some amazing new products that I am so excited to share.

1. Target Signature Soy Candle in Autumn Harvest
I bought this candle from Target not realizing how much I would actually love it! It has a strong and sweet smell that makes my room smell amazing and it was so cheap too. It's probably one of my favorite fall candles of all time and I want to go back and get the larger size!
2. Formula 10.0.6 Picture Perfect Day Daily Moisturizer
I needed a new moisturizer for the mornings with SPF and I stumbled upon this one at Ulta. I loved the packaging of this brand and it was only $6! I'm so glad I bought it because I love the way it makes my skin feel. It doesn't clog my pores either which is awesome!
3. Formula 10.0.6 Pores Be Pure Skin-Clarifying Mud Mask
This was an impulse purchase that definitely paid off. My skin has been a lot more clear lately and I think this is to blame! It smells so good and it really pulls the oil and buildup out of your pores.
4. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion +
I got this sample and then went back to get the larger size because of how great it is. It is so moisturizing and is perfect for using at night!
5. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Monte Carlo
This stuff is talked about so much and now I understand why! It lasted my entire work shift yesterday without having to reapply and it goes on so easily.
6. Fleur de Force lip gloss in Starry Starry Night
Fleur de Force has been one of my favorite beauty gurus on Youtube for years now, and when I saw that her makeup line was coming out on feelunique.com I ordered it that day! This gloss does not disappoint. I wore it to a football game and it was still in place when I woke up the next day! Not to mention the perfect color and formula. I can't say enough about this.
7. Fleur de Force Quad Eye Shadow in Cosmic Bronze
This is also a gorgeous product. The colors are exactly what I like for every day and the shimmery bronze shade is to die for.
8. Revlon Bold Lacquer Mascara
I had a coupon for this and I didn't have very high expectations but I actually love it! It gives you very dark, voluminous lashes.

I hope you check out some of these items for yourself and that you had a happy Halloween!
xoxo, Katie

Transitioning to Fall with Elizabeth & Clarke

Fall is upon us, and I couldn't be more happy about it. As the heat is subsiding, I'm happily switching over to scarves, boots and sweaters as well as buying everything pumpkin related that I can get my hands on! In today's post I'm going to share how to take a white collared blouse and boyfriend jeans from summer to fall. For the summer look, I paired the outfit with my favorite pair of brown wedges.

 I am so excited to get to share with you all about my campus representative position for Elizabeth & Clarke! This top is called the "Arden" and it is from the Unstainable collection. That means exactly what you think: stains roll right off of the fabric! I've tested and tried it myself and was not disappointed. Keeping white shirts seems impossible but these are definitely up to the challenge! Visit the site at http://www.unstainable.ec and use the code KATIEUSC10 for 10% off your purchase!

Now for the fall look! I grabbed my favorite plum colored Old Navy cardigan, some ankle boots and a shimmery scarf. I love how relaxed and comfy this outfit was and being able to take the sleeveless blouse and use it in a weather appropriate outfit.

I loved getting the chance to go home for my fall break to good old Greenville, SC. Seeing the fall leaves along my driving was a wonderful thing to come home to. A huge thank you to my sister over at http://www.sarahlandmesser.com for taking these photos for me! I was so happy to go to one of her cross country races and go shopping with her for fall candles on Saturday.

I hope you're enjoying fall as it arrives! Stay tuned for more posts in the next few weeks as I plan some Elizabeth & Clarke events and start embracing fall fashion.

xoxo, Katie

Apartment Decorating on a Budget

Hi everyone!
I am so sorry that this post is so long overdue. Adjusting to my schedule this semester has been challenging to say the least, but I've finally fallen into a routine and I'm ready to get back into blogging! One of my ventures over the last two months was decorating my room in my very own apartment! I was so excited (and still am) to have my own space that I can do whatever I want with. I have finally gotten to where I feel like everything is complete. I made a list of things that I purchased to make my room feel chic as well as comfortable and homey, all while staying on the less expensive side of things!

1. Gallery wall
When I was prepping for move in day, I loved the idea of a gallery wall, but I didn't know how to make it happen. Luckily for me my friend Carylanne found me a gallery wall book at Hobby Lobby for a birthday gift! She also spray painted a bunch of frames in gray, gold and pink, the colors I had picked out for my room. I can't find the exact link to the gallery wall book, but you can find them at the store for $10! This is definitely my favorite part of my room by far. (Also, I now have decorated the shelves on the side, which were from Target. They add a great touch!)

2. Coffee Table Decorations
Since I am a college student, my room is pretty tiny and definitely not apt for a coffee table. I decided to take the tips I had learned from Pinterest and create a "coffee table" out of the top of my dresser! I filled it with candles, my favorite style books, pictures frames and perfumes. It really is a collection of my favorite items, most of which I already had. I got the votive holders from World Market and they were a total steal. The little terrarium is from my sister and also from World Market. I love having her personal touch there. The frame above it all was $5 from Target!

3. Paper Lanterns
I got this set of 3 eyelet paper lanterns on Amazon for less than $10! I hung them up with fishing line to make them look like they are floating and tied that to command hooks. I love the slightly boho feel they give to the room.

4. Canvases/Posters
My big, Bethany, is an amazing artist and always gives me beautiful canvases as gifts! They have made the best addition to my room. I even made a couple of my own. I also went to a poster sale at school and picked up a $5 photo of the Eiffel Tower and another Monet one. Painting a canvas yourself or buying a cheap poster is a perfect way to decorate the walls and add the personal touch that will make you feel at home.

5. Bedding/pillows
I got my bedding from Anna's Linens, which sadly closed right after I bought my set. However, I did get the big fluffy pillow from Marshall's for $15! I also really recommend Burlington Coat Factory for throw pillows. They are super cute and won't break the bank!

I hope you can take some of these tips and use them for yourself! Have a great rest of October and happy decorating!

xoxo,
Katie

July Favorites

The month of July is usually my favorite because of the warm weather, the 4th of July, and my birthday at the end of the month! This month was pretty relaxed between the jobs I was working and starting to shop for my new apartment. I'll definitely be posting pictures when it's all ready! As for now, this will be my last post for a while because of sorority recruitment, but I'll be back in September! Here are some products I got hooked on this month.

In clockwise order:

1. Essie Nail Polish in Butler, Please- this color is vibrant but still refined and goes perfectly with neutral outfits!
2. Not Your Mother's Sea Salt Spray- this stuff is my current obsession! It gives my wavy hair defined curls.
3. E.l.f. Lip Balm Tint in Berry- this was $1...and amazing.
4. NYX Stick Blush in Orchid- the perfect shimmery coral blush that is so easy to apply!
5. Jessica Simpson Fancy perfume- this gourmand fragrance is so nice and you can get a big bottle on Amazon for $20!
6. MAC lipstick in Creme Cup- a staple for any look with a nude lip.

5 Essentials for Sorority Recruitment

To all the girls going through rush next month: first of all, try not to freak out! I know I did this time last year. I was so excited but so overwhelmed by picking out all my outfits and adjusting to a brand new lifestyle. It's such a fun experience, especially if you come prepared! Here are a few things I wish I had when I went through that you should pack.

1. A colorful ribbon or piece of string 

This sounds really random, I know. But you're given a drawstring bag identical to everyone else's! In order to find yours among the large piles, bring something to tie around it to distinguish it so you can find it quickly and get to the next event. 

2. Mattifying face powder
The heat in South Carolina is so, so real. While a shiny face is inevitable, a little powder doesn't hurt. The Make Up For Ever HD Powder is totally worth the splurge. It comes with a lot of product and mattifies even the oiliest skin for a long time.

3. Face mist
This will help you cool down when you're waiting to go inside a house. If you get one that smells nice (like this rosewater version), you won't have to keep spraying your perfume and it'll provide a light, fresh scent instead of something heavy.

4. Comfortable shoes...even when that round calls for heels
You will be walking A LOT. Even when you are wearing heels one round, bring some sandals or even sneakers to walk back and forth in. I promise your feet will thank you. I got horrible blisters even from just wearing sandals, so also don't wear the same sandals twice if you can.
(The pair of sandals I'm linking is a pair I saw on a customer at work the other day. I think they're to die for!)

5. Hair supplies
You need just about everything; hairbrush, hair spray and a little product to tame frizz will all help fight humidity. My favorite thing is the Garnier Fructis glossing spray. Also bring extra bobby pins and hair ties just in case.

I hope this helps when you're packing your bags and I hope you enjoy recruitment!

xoxo, Katie

Best Workout Clothes on a Budget

This week I got a new job at my crossfit gym and as a result I've been working out a lot more than usual...and loving it! It inspired me to create this post about my favorite workout clothes and where to buy them. I go for inexpensive items since I'd rather spend my money on my nicer clothing (just a personal preference.) I've found that a lot of bargain-friendly brands make clothes that last a long time.

First of all, I think shoes are worth the investment. I bought a pair of Nike Free 5.0s and I wear them to the gym several times a week. They've lasted me more than 2 years now and are still really comfortable and vibrant in color since I usually only wear them indoors. If you look on jimmy jazz.com you can save yourself about $20! You just have to hunt around a little bit.

All of my sports bras, tank tops and leggings are from my favorite chain stores. (I always opt for tanks and leggings over anything else because I feel like my movement is the easiest that way!) Right now I'm obsessed with this particular style of Champion sports bra at Target. It comes in the prettiest colors and is really well padded. I've also stayed true to tanks from Gap and Old Navy. I just picked up these mesh ones from Old Navy in bright blue and white and they are so much fun with a colorful sports bra underneath.

As for leggings, I get those at Gap and Old Navy as well but Victoria's Secret is a good option too. I definitely recommend watching for sales on those though! They can retail for around $50.

I hope this inspired you to find some fun new workout gear and maybe even get to the gym a little more often! Enjoy looking through the widget below and have a great day!

xoxo, Katie

June Favorites

This month I've tried a lot of great new products as well as found some old favorites in my collection. After compiling them I realized that they all have pinky-nude tones, even in just the packaging! I think that's very apt for the season.

In clockwise order:
Revlon Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake- the perfect glossy pink.

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment in Honey- I've been loving this for a darker nude, and it's insanely hydrating!

Milani Baked Blush in Dolce Pink- this stuff is super shimmery, but comes across more subtle on your face. It goes perfectly with whatever other makeup you are using that day.

Essie Nail Polish in Imported Bubbly- I've been obsessed with sheer, iridescent nail colors and this is a classic!

Tocca Girl on the Go set (favorites are Cleopatra and Simone)- at my new job the Tocca perfumes are an absolute fave, so I picked up this set to test some out! These two are my favorite. They're light and citrusy for summer; Cleopatra is grapefruit and cucumber but in the most subtle way possible, and Simone smells more like the beach.

Benefit Roller Lash Mascara- this stuff is totally worth the money...one coat and you're good to go with gorgeous, long lashes.

Maybelline The Blushed Nudes Palette- I've already talked about this and I need to touch on it again since I've used it every day! I love using the peachy gold on my lid and then one of the smoky browns on the outer corners. It's so simple.

All of the links are below! Enjoy.  xoxo, Katie

Etsy Shop Update

Hello everyone!

I have some exciting news today. One of my best friends, Carylanne, has an Etsy shop called PearlsandCurlz. (Click on the name for the link!) She sells gorgeous, Bourbon and Bowties inspired wire bracelets. For Christmas she gave me some as a gift and I've been wearing them nonstop! She also makes custom coolers and Lilly Pulitzer inspired items.

Last night the two of us got together and decided to collaborate! She is now featuring my charm bangles on her site. You can buy them in sets and I'm obsessed with the nautical-inspired one. We also have gold bracelets with a locket charm for a pretty personal touch.

I am in LOVE with this set she made! This is just one example of the amazing way that Carylanne puts colors together. The floral bracelet is absolutely perfect.

Here is the photo of the nautical set! I think three is the perfect amount to wear together, and if you buy it this way it makes a great gift or you can keep some for yourself!

I hope you'll check out the shop! They provide a great-quality, low cost alternative to the designer options and we have a ton of unique items to choose from.

xoxo, Katie

The Perfect Recipe for Glowy Skin

 As you may have noticed if you follow my blog, my posts lately have been all about skincare. While I've shared a lot of tips, I've also tried out a couple new products that I know I have to share. All of these have really changed my makeup and skin routine so I have to show you what they're all about! 

The first thing I love is this foundation. Oh my gosh yall...I am obsessed! This stuff matches my skin perfectly and creates such a great finish that isn't shiny but isn't matte. I wear the n1-2 shade and it fits me so well. This stuff covers all my redness but isn't cakey and blends right in naturally. I've been applying it with the Ulta version of a Beauty Blender sponge. I can't bring myself to buy the $20 one at Sephora. However this makes a huge difference for blending out undereye concealer and getting the hard to reach areas of your face like around your nose. 

The next thing is this facial oil from Sonia Kashuk. I have been waiting for this to be released ever since it was talked about in Lucky magazine since I've been really wanting a new face oil. This definitely does not disappoint! It smells really nice and herbal and has instant moisturizing properties. It is made of 9 oils that all provide amazing skin benefits! (Remember what I said about looking for natural ingredients?) I can't wait to see how my skin improves over time with this stuff. 

Lastly is this primer from Tarte. This has a beautiful texture and finish, similar to that of the super popular Smashbox one. I love the way it glides onto my skin and evens it out to make my foundation go on more smoothly. I will say that I wish it had a slightly wetter consistency. It can be kind of dry and sort of crumble when you're applying it, but my dry skin is to blame for that as well. 

I hope these reviews were helpful to someone out there and that your makeup stays as glowy as possible this summer! 

xoxo, Katie

Newly Released Eye Shadow Palettes - Review

There's something about a palette that is so much more alluring than buying regular makeup. First and foremost, the packaging..I can't say no to something with a great box and shades in a combination I've never seen before. This month I purchased two new palettes and I'm equally obsessed with them both so I thought I would share a review of them for you! 

The first is the Blushed Nudes by Maybelline. I am obsessed with this arrangement of colors. They combine into the most gorgeous pinky-bronze smoky eye and the darker shades are just enough for something soft but sultry. I've loved coming up with new looks with it since all of the colors really work well together. The pigmentation isn't top dollar, but I personally don't mind. They actually look nice since they're a little softer and then you don't have to work as hard to blend out any darker shades. Almost all the colors have a really pretty shimmer to them as well. Here are some photos and swatches!

What I'm sharing next is something that I could not be more excited about! It is the new customizable palette from Buxom. At Sephora right now it's the top display on the shelf. For $40, which I think is a crazy deal, you get to pick 6 shades and put them in yourself! (Which is so incredibly easy, the pan slides right out and you just pop them in place!) the shadows are a great size and there's a huge variety. I think this is invaluable since I've been looking for a palette with the exact shades I want for ages! I'm very picky about my shadows and while my palette might look super boring, it's something I've been waiting for! I can't believe I haven't heard more about this before. I also love the simple black packaging. 

I hope you get inspired to go try these out! I promise you won't be disappointed. 

xoxo, Katie

New Summer Nail Polish Loves

It isn't often that I prefer bright colors in any aspect of my wardrobe, but when summer rolls around I love being able to decorate my nails in accordance with the fun atmosphere that the season brings. Recently I went to Sally Beauty Supply to take advantage of a BOGO sale they were having and I picked up some colors I have been obsessed with in the last month! I love the way these stand out in photos and act as an extra accessory to any outfit. 

From left to right:

1- Rose Among Thorns

2- Flip Flop Fantasy

3- Re-fresh Mint

4- For Audrey

5- Lotus Begin

I only have good things to say about China Glaze nail polish. I love the brush and the formula is great in each of these. They also have great lasting power in comparison to other brands. I know I'm going to be wearing these over and over again throughout the next few months. 

Let me know what your favorite nail colors of the moment are! 

xoxo, Katie 

Embracing my Natural Hair

I read a statistic in Teen Vogue yesterday that really shocked me: half of teenage girls feel the need to straighten their hair every day. But honestly, am I really surprised? In high school I used heat on my hair every day. I hated my natural waves for being frizzy and giving me a lions mane. In the summers I would give my hair a break and let it air dry more often. This summer I have vowed to stay away from the flatiron and embrace being lazy and letting my hair do what it wants. 

Here is a photo from a few days ago. I hope that some of you with curly hair will do the same and realize how much easier your morning routine will be! A little salt spray and you're out the door.

xoxo, Katie  

My Tried and True, Expert Approved Skincare Tips

Skincare is probably the most complex aspect of beauty that there is. Every person's skin type is so unique and can change throughout the years and seasons. There are so many articles out there that it can be difficult to figure out what is helpful and what isn't. I've assembled some of my favorite skincare advice that has been proven to actually work through the studies of experts and my own personal knowledge. 

To begin, some background on my skin. Like many others, I started getting acne in middle school that was definitely close to severe. My skin was oily all the time and I tried so many products and was never satisfied. To make it worse, I developed an allergy to antacids my sophomore year of high school. That means ibuprofen, aspirin, and the common skincare ingredient salicylic acid. I broke out worse than I ever had in my life. Now after several years with a dermatologist I have finally found a good product combination but my skin has become dry and is very sensitive to new products. 

With all of that said, I think that this advice I'm about to share is needed for all skin types. I hope it can help you in your quest for healthy skin!

1. After trying a new regimen of products, wait 4-6 weeks to see results. This is so true but it can be so hard to listen to. I got very discouraged with my dermatologist but after about 6 to 7 weeks of using a new set of skincare products my skin has finally cleared up. Listen to the experts and suffer through a few weeks and it will definitely pay off. 

2. Use a lot of moisturizer. I got this tip from one of Bobbi Brown's books. Moisturizer helps your skin retain water and give it the vitamins and sun protection that it needs. Don't be afraid to use a lot on a daily basis. I also follow the editor of Lucky magazine, Eva Chen, on all her social media and she is always posting product reviews of different mosuturziers that she goes through super quickly. Both of these iconic women have smooth, glowy skin that proves the power that a great moisturizer can have. 

3. Don't overcleanse. A lot of beauty figures have started cleansing their face only once a day to avoid the overproduction of oil. On days when you've worn a light face of makeup, I recommend using a cleansing water instead of a normal cleanser. I've recently tried the one from Simple Skincare and it really does a great job of getting off dirt and makeup without drying out or tightening your skin. These are super popular right now for a good reason! 

4. Look for products with natural ingredients that are proven to help your skin. This has helped my skin so much lately. Instead of grabbing the bottle with a complex mix of chemicals, find one that promises ingredients you've actually heard of! For example, oatmeal, chamomile and coconut oil are all amazing for hydrating dry skin. If you keep a lookout for those ingredients you'll find a much more effective product. Whenever my skin gets extra dry, I use Eucerin cream on it because the oatmeal in it completely soothes the redness. 

5. Drink green tea. Green tea has been one of my favorite things to drink for years and it has so many health benefits. Not only is it great for your skin, but it helps with your heart health as well. I'm currently obsessed with this authentic sencha tea I got from a Japanese food store. It tastes heavenly! Plus it was super inexpensive. I can't say enough good things about it. 

 

These tips have really helped me work toward healthy skin. I hope that they help some of you out as well. Enjoy your weekend! xoxo, Katie 

May Favorites

This month I moved back home so my beauty routine has been pretty simple. I barely wear makeup and I've been really focused on taking care of my skin! Regardless, here are a few products I've tried or rediscovered. 

1. Clinique Chubby Stick in 05 Chunky Cherry

When I was at school, I found myself using this lip product almost every day. With a very neutral makeup look, it adds the perfect amount of red to my lips and is glossy and hydrating. 

2. Boots Botanics Rosewater Toning Spritz

I use this every morning after washing my face. It smells heavenly and makes my skin feel extra hydrated.

3. Suave Moroccan Infusion Body Lotion

I needed a non scented body lotion for after my showers and I am obsessed with this! It has a nice sheen to it and really moisturizes. It has a little bit of unexpected scent but it is very subtle. My skin feels so soft after using this repeatedly. 

4. Neutrogena Nourishing Eye Duo in Iced Coffee

I pulled this old favorite out of the collection recently and remembered why I've held on to it for so long! The subtle shimmer is perfect for an everyday look and I've been wearing it nonstop.

5. OPI Nail Lacquer in Purple-opolis

Berry nail polishes are super on-trend for summer and this is one of my personal favorites. I recommend looking for it or finding a berry shade of your own! 

I hope that this sparks some interest in you! More posts are coming soon and I'm extremely excited about the updated appearance of my blog. A huge thank you to my sister Sarah for creating my header and please check out her photography at sarahlandmesser.com!

Have a lovely day!

xoxo, Katie 

Summer Swimsuit Favorites

This season I have been seeing more swimsuits come out that I love than I have in any previous season. I think it has to do with the creative silhouettes that are becoming more popular as well as some of the more athletic styles being combined with gorgeous patterns. Whatever the case, I know I have to share some of the ones I've picked up or ones that I've noticed in general so that you all can get some inspiration of your own!

1. Scalloped Bikinis

I found out about these amazing scalloped pieces from Marysia through a post on Lauren Conrad's blog. (I am obsessed with her and her style, to no surprise.) However, they are way out of my price range. I found a similar one from Victoria's Secret and it arrived yesterday. I am obsessed with it and I can't wait to wear it. 

This is the Marysia version. I am so in love!

This is the Victoria's Secret one. It's really flattering and super similar to the other one!

2. Sporty and Strappy

I absolutely love how a lot of swimsuits that are in right now are more athletic. You can actually wear them if you're planning on jumping into the pool, playing in the ocean or tubing. This style from Sensi Graves is $49 and you can just buy a basic black bottom to match! I love the colors of the straps. Also the front is really simple and comfortable unlike a lot of the super padded ones. Here's a link to the page.

3. Triangl Bikinis (And Imitations)

You can't go anywhere without seeing one of these this summer! While the neoprene trend is love/hate with a lot of people, the one thing I have to say is that you should at least find a bargain. Right now this one from Oasap is $15.12, which is pretty hard to pass up! If you're looking to try this trend on your body type then this site is the place to go. I like this one the best for the different pink tones. Here's the link.

I hope you keep some of these in mind when you're shopping for new suits this summer and that you enjoy all your time spent in the sun!

xoxo, Katie

My Spring/Summer Wishlist

I have always lived for spring and summer, and since getting back from college last night my summer has officially begun! Finally I get to wear shorts and flip flops and spend all my time soaking up the sun. I also love the opportunity to switch up my beauty routine and incorporate this season's trends into my wardrobe. There are a lot of items that I have been loving lately as well as several online items I can't wait to purchase! Here's a list of fashion and beauty things that I am going to be loving this summer and I hope it can inspire you as well. 

1. Rose-scented products

I haven't always been a fan of floral scents since they can sometimes be too heavy, but lately I've been loving the fresh smell of roses for my beauty routine. The smell goes perfectly with the flowers that bloomed all over my campus. This mask is one of my favorites for hydrating and toning my skin and it smells amazing! Another thing I've been really into is Epsom salt baths since I've been sick. Mixing Epsom salts with a few drops of rose essential oil gives a calming bath that also soothes illness and alleviates the tension in sore muscles. To buy the mask click here.

2. Clothed in Hope bracelets 

Clothed in Hope is a company that was founded in 2011 by a student that graduated from my school. All of the products are made by women in Zambia and the proceeds go back to them to help them learn how to support their families through running a business. I was fortunate enough to go to several trunk shows where a lot of the items were being sold and I've created a collection of these bracelets! I love the burst of color and I wear them every single day. I highly recommend checking out the site since everything is absolutely beautiful and it always starts a conversation about a great cause. Here is a link to the bracelets!

3. Palm Tree and Pineapple Patterns

If you go out to any store right now, it's impossible to miss the fruit-printed items and tropical themes on many articles of clothing right now. I started loving the pineapple idea when I visited Charleston in February and saw the famous pineapple fountain. As it turns out, pineapples are incorporated into everything all over the city! Ever since then I've loved seeing them for some reason and it makes me happy that they are popping up everywhere. I also love the palm fronds and trees that I'm seeing on a lot of pieces. Nothing could be more cute and appropriate for the summer time. 

I'm dying over this palm-print romper from one of my favorite local stores, Entourage. All of the clothes they carry are less than $42. I'm obsessed!

I'm also a huge fan of these phone cases from Nunuco Design Company. I found out about these somehow through Instagram and I'm in love with the watercolor patterns. I just want to order them all! I have to say that I'm leaning toward the pineapples. 

4. Lauren James

I always love preppy items as summer rolls around, especially anything pastel and seersucker. Lauren James products always combine the two perfectly without being overdone. Right now I'm eyeing this coral beachcomber and anything with the American Magnolia pattern (right on time for the 4th of July!). 

I hope you all enjoyed this post! I am super excited to be home and I can't wait to incorporate these ideas and trends in time for the hot weather that is surely on its way. I hope that you all are enjoying the spring and summer so far and good luck if you're finishing off school! 

xoxo, Katie

Maybelline New Releases Product Review

When I was planning out my outfits for usc fashion week, I knew I wanted some brightly colored spring lipsticks to go with my outfits. Naturally, I ended up splurging on some other items as well so I thought i would whip up a quick review for you all! I'll start with the Lash Sensational mascara. Sadly I am not a fan. I have very short, light lashes so I go for mascaras that leave a big impact. This one was very lacking. The formula was too wet, making my lashes droop from their curl and clump together. Here's some photos for proof. They're definitely unremarkable. 

I have a similar opinion of the Master Kajal Cream Kohl Eyeliner. I've never tried one of these chubby pencils so I figured it was time! While I love the matte finish and easy application, the stuff just doesn't last. By the end of the day I can't even see it anymore. 

However, I'm completely in love with the lipsticks. They are all from the new Blooms line and the formula is light, creamy and smooth. They moisturizer your lips instead of dry them out and have just the right amount of pigmentation to spice up your look without being too over the top. I highly recommend these and especially these colors in particular. They're just what you want for springtime. 

I hope you can gain something from this post and that you're inspired to try new products for the spring! Wearing a bold lip color is something I hesitated to do for a long time but I highly recommend taking the leap. 

Xoxo, Katie