Girlfriends

On Friday, three of my best girlfriends and I went out. We went to a new, "chic" burger joint and indulged in our delicious burgers and my favorite - sweet potato fries!! After dinner, our friend AB left us to work on a legal memo and finish recuperating from a cold. AW, EF, and I trotted through the light snow in our high heels to a boutique fashion show. 

Since the show wasn't supposed to start for another twenty minutes, the girls and I decided we had just enough time to enjoy a Cosmo!! We were sitting there, with our pink drinks glowing in front of us like a scene from Sex and the City, and I realized how fantastic I felt. After a week filled with classes and stressing over the upcoming MPRE, we were able to take the time to go out and truly enjoy ourselves.

For me, there is nothing that fixes a bad week like taking the time to get ready, meeting up with my best girlfriends, and getting in plenty of girl talk and gossip!! I think it's just about getting out and getting away from your everyday stresses - homework, bills, dishes, laundry - just leaving it all behind and doing something enjoyable with people you love. 

After our Cosmos, we went back to the boutique and took in the fashion show!! The DJ did a great job, we spotted several dresses/jeans/heels we loved, and we thought the models did well overall. After the show, we made our way through the snow (again!!) to a bar/lounge nearby for drinks.

I am very blessed to have friends who can make me laugh... My best girlfriends make me laugh so hard sometimes that my stomach hurts and my eyes start watering. We giggled away at the bar that night, but I know us, and we would have had just as much fun if we were trapped in a paper bag together!! Just a few of my favorites that night: EF pranced right up to the DJ and asked him to play Lady Gaga, and within seconds (I am NOT kidding) he started mixing the current track into Miss Gaga... EF and AW started yelling "KIM'S TURNING 30!!!" and we would all burst into laughter when everyone would look at us, completely confused... And our bartender made us a drink that tasted exactly like purple Nerds candy - and it was fabulous. 

To AB, AW, and EF... I am so thankful that you are my friends. I honestly can't imagine what it would be like without our "suicide buns", our sweats-and-Twilight nights, our gossip sessions in the hallway, or going out like we're SATC Version 2.0  :)  I feel like I can confide in you, I can relax and de-stress with you, and best of all, I can engage in the most ridiculous of shenanigans with you!!

Thanks for always being my... GIRLFRIENDS  :)

Xoxo B.

Dun, Dun, Dun... MPRE!!!

Just when I was starting to get used to my classes this semester I get a rude mid-semester awakening... The MPRE exam is just a week away.  Oh, let the stress and caffeine sprees begin!!

Passing the MPRE (the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam) is mandatory in order to be eligible to take the bar exam after law school graduation.  As of right now, I'm not planning on taking the bar exam because I don't anticipate practicing law... I want to pursue a career in the fashion/beauty industry.  So... It's not necessary that I take the MPRE, but I don't want to limit my options, and it's better to take the exam while I'm in Professional Responsibility class and it's fresh in my head. 

Of all the classes I've taken in law school, Professional Responsibility is definitely the most unique.  It deals with the ethical and moral guidelines along which lawyers must conduct themselves.  Each class, we go over various situations (an alcoholic partner, an overload of pro bono cases, sexual relations with a client) and study the way we, as lawyers, should remedy or deal with the situation. 

At first, it seemed simple enough... But after two 1.5-hour classes a week for over a month, you start to realize that there's a lot to remember. 

We have a four-hour prep class tomorrow, but other than that, my studying will most likely consist of making flash cards and studying with my friends.  Here's to Starbucks, sweatpants, and prayers!!  :)

Xoxo B.  

Product Rave Review: Yes To Carrots Eye and Face Makeup Remover

Name:  Yes To Carrots "Can You C Me" Eye and Face Makeup Remover

Why I purchased:   I was looking for a total-face makeup remover to keep in my shower, something that would remove every trace of eye makeup as well as foundation so that when I used my scrub and cleanser, I was really cleansing my skin and not my makeup!! 


Where I purchased:  Target 

 This is what the product looks like out of the bottle.

What I like:  The texture of this makeup remover is creamy-smooth, like a facial moisturizer.  It doesn't have a specific scent that I can pick up on, it just smells "fresh" when I'm using it.  What I like the most is that it WORKS... Without being too harsh on my skin.  I spread it all over my face and neck using my fingers, and it removes ALL traces of my eye makeup, which is always the most difficult for me to remove!!  If you applied this makeup remover using a damp washcloth I bet it would be able to remove eyelash glue and the heaviest glitter eyeshadow!!

Overall:  I was truly impressed with how well this makeup remover worked, considering its soft and creamy texture!!  As soon as I run out, I will definitely be purchasing this again!!


Have you tried anything from the "Yes To..." lines that you love??

Xoxo B.

Forever 21 Haul

Get Groovy...

Just when you were finally getting used to skinny jeans and jeggings, the jean pendulum has swung completely the other way... Flares and bell bottoms are all over the place, giving a 70's chic vibe to Spring this year. 

Like skinny jeans, the flare style can be very flattering, or very bad.  Let's not forget how the world stopped at the sight of Jessica Simpson's camel-toe in her too-high, too-faded, too-tight flares. 

On the other hand, the overall cut and shape of flares tend to flatter a woman's body... They hug at the hips and thighs, then "flare" out at the bottom, creating a balancing effect.  If they're worn with chunky heels, wedges, or platforms they lengthen the leg perfectly, and make legs and hips appear much thinner. 

Katherine Heigl frequently wears flares... And she always looks stunning in them!! 

Jennifer Aniston in a less-intense pair of flares... I would probably consider these "bootcut".  If you're used to skinny jeans or jeggings, this wide bootcut/skinny flare might be a good transition point for you.

This isn't quite fair because Gisele is... Gisele.  But it's a great example of how you can dress down your flares.  Gisele looks comfy and casual in her sneakers and tee.  (Tall girls can get past the heels/platform requirement the rest of us have to live by!!)

Most importantly, what you wear on top matters.  With my skinny jeans and jeggings I always favored loose, flowing tops and tunics that hit at my hip or thigh.  With flares I always make sure my top goes no longer than the top of my back pockets or I wear my tops tucked in.  This varies with body type, but in my experience, accentuating my waist is always key to pulling off my flares.  If I wear a loose, long tank or top my waist gets lost and I end up looking like a blob.

Here's an example of how the style of your top can really affect the overall look of your flares:

Here, you can see that Kourtney has kept her top short... You can see her belt and the definition of her waist.  But Kim (ahh... I hate to say this, she's my fave) looks a little sloppy because her waist gets totally lost in the volume of the big, blousy top.  

While I still don't think this is as flattering as some of her cropped jacket-and-flares combos, Rachel Zoe looks cute in her flares even though she's wearing a longer top because she is so tiny and petite... And she wears sky-high platform heels.  As you can see, if you are very petite and have pin-thin legs, you probably don't have to be as vigilant of what tops you pair with your flares. 

Here's a look I put together... I think this would be a great way to wear flare jeans, and it looks cute, casual, and makes me think of Spring!!!

Isabel Lu Lace Spaghetti Top in "Peach" - Piperlime, $118  (Find it HERE.) 
J Brand 1197 Martini Flare Jeans in "Mayflower" - Piperlime, $178  (Find it HERE.)
Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Lil Shifty Bag in "Spinach" - Piperlime, $358  (Find it HERE.)
True Religion Sage Wedges - Piperlime, $175  (Find it HERE.)
Marc by Marc Jacobs Goldtone Blade Watch - Piperlime, $225  (Find it HERE.)


Here are some other great styles of flares...

Paige Denim 

Lou Lou Tulip Jeans 

shopbop.com (Here.)

J Brand 

Martini Flare in "Pure" 

revolveclothing.com (HERE.)

 

 Paige Denim 

Bentley Flare Jean

piperlime.com (HERE.)

 

 SOLD

Houston High Heeled Bell Jeans

piperlime.com (HERE.)

 

 J Brand

Lovestory Flare Jeans in "Osaka" 

piperlime.com (HERE.)

 

Don't forget to take your heels/wedges/platforms with you to a tailor to get your jeans hemmed to the perfect length.  The most flattering length will hit the top of your foot, just before your toes, in shoes.  This will make a huge difference, and you'll wear your jeans much more, I promise!! 

Are you guys ready to get groovy?!  Will you be working your flares this Spring??

Happy Friday :) 

Xoxo B.

My Workout Playlist

About four years ago I began working out with an iPod and realized how quickly it makes the time pass, how it motivates me even when I'm tired, and how it relaxes me when I stretch out at the end of a workout.

Now I can't complete a workout without my music!!  If I realize I don't have my iPod I will listen to Pandora radio on my phone, search for my iPod in my car, and have even left the gym to do a workout at home with music on days when I'm particularly exhausted!!

I love hearing what other people listen to during their workouts... Everyone is a bit different, but I can usually find a song or two on their playlist that get me moving as well.  So here is my current workout playlist (including a few songs that are old favorites!!)

WARM-UP




A Year Without Rain - Selena Gomez & The Scene

Robocop - Kanye West

Beautiful - Akon, Colby O'Donis, & Kardinal Offishall

CARDIO 

Untouched - The Veronicas

Who Dat Girl? - Flo Rida feat. Akon

Bottoms Up - Keke Palmer

Breathe Stretch Shake - Mase & P. Diddy 

Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) - Eurythmics

S & M - Rihanna

Hit The Lights - Jay Sean (feat. Lil Wayne)

Written In The Stars - Tinie Tempah & Eric Turner

Tonight I'm Loving You - Enrique Iglesias (feat. Ludacris & DJ Frank E)

Alors on Danse - Stromae (Remix feat. Kanye West & Gilbere Forte)

Toxic - Britney Spears (Armand Van Helden Radio Edit)

Hey Baby (Drop It To The Floor) - Pitbull (feat. T-Pain)

It's Not Right But It's Okay - Whitney Houston (Thunderpuss Mix)  
**No, I am not kidding... That's the title of the remix. 

COOL-DOWN

Another Night - Real McCoy


And Then We Kiss - Britney Spears (Junkie XL Remix)


Save Me - Nicki Minaj

What songs are on your current workout playlist??  Are there any songs that have gotten you up on your feet for years??

Xoxo B.

Photo Credit: epicself.com via Google Images.

Valentine's Weekend Recap!!

So... If you're one of my close friends or you follow me on Twitter, you probably know that I'm dating someone very special!!  I refer to him as "Dr." on Twitter and will do the same (at least for a little while) on this blog.  You already know that I use my friends' initials to refer to them because my blog is something I choose to do, but that doesn't mean my friends/family want their names out there in public and I want to protect their privacy as much as possible with a public blog!!

Dr. and I met back in undergrad... I started crushing on Dr. in one of our classes, and we went on a few dates, but I was too immature for a relationship, and just wanted to be single and run around with my girlfriends.  Dr. and I stayed in touch and remained friends throughout the next few years as we dated other people.  Then, late this Fall, Dr. asked me to coffee while he was back in town for a few days.  Something just clicked.  I don't know what it was, but we sat and chatted until Starbucks closed down!!  A few days later, I caught myself thinking about him... I wonder what he's doing right now?... He looked so cute the other night!!... Maybe we should get coffee again??

One night in December, I was out Christmas shopping on a weekend night.  Dr. had called me, but I didn't know if I should call back... What kind of lame-o girl spends her Friday and Saturday nights running errands and wrapping Christmas presents?!  (Answer: A lame-o girl in law school!!)  But... I decided to go ahead and call him back anyway.

Me:  Hi!! I saw you called... How are you??

Dr:  Great... I just wondered what you were up to tonight??

Me:  (Pause)... I was going to go to Target??  

Dr:  Really??  Pick me up, my apartment's close... I'll go to Target with you!!

I don't know about you, but any guy I can have fun with shopping for wrapping paper, shirt boxes, bows and ribbon, and Wii games at Target on a Saturday night... Is incredible in my eyes!!  After our little Target date we got coffee and walked around looking at Christmas lights downtown.  After Christmas break and New Year's we went on a few more dates, realized we both really liked each other, and made things official!!  I don't know what the future has in store for us, but I'm so excited to find out!! 

Anyway, here's how my Valentine's Day weekend went...

Flowers from Dad... My first Valentine ever!!

Friday...

Dr. picked me up and took me to a restaurant in our city called The Flatiron.  I had never been there and Dr. insisted that I try it... I'm so glad that I did because it quickly became one of my top 3 favorite restaurants world wide.  The Flatiron has the hard-to-find blend I am always looking for in a great restaurant: the food and service were fantastic, yet the atmosphere is cozy and relaxed.  It reminded me of one of those great restaurants you find tucked away down a little street in Paris or Geneva. 

We started with wine and crispy calamari, tossed in fresh pico de gallo and avocado.  For the main course, Dr. ordered rack of lamb, which was probably the most savory I've ever tasted.  I ordered the most flaky, perfect wild Alaskan salmon, which was surrounded by glazed vegetables and sat on top of a potato-and-crab cake.  The portions were perfect... Neither of us felt too full, so we ordered the Tahitian vanilla creme brulee, topped with a few strawberries, for dessert.  It was a lovely dinner, and one of my favorite things about Dr. is that I never feel nervous with him... We never run out of things to talk about.

After dinner, we went home to exchange Valentine's Day gifts and enjoy a glass of champagne (we were too full to have the gelato Dr. brought over earlier).  I had worried and stressed over what I was going to get Dr. for a few weeks... After finding the perfect preppy sweater, I decided I needed to amp up the romance factor a bit.  Since I love scrapbooking and being creative, I made a little book of gift cards for dates.  Since Dr. always takes me out, I wanted to treat him for once!!  Each gift card went along with one of the reasons I'm head over heels for him...

"You Keep Me Warm" = Starbucks coffee date

 

"You Make Me Laugh" = A night at the movies

"You're A Gentleman, And So Romantic" = Dinner date 

The book wasn't difficult to make, but did take a substantial amount of time to cut out the scrapbook paper, place it, and add letters and embellishments.  You can go to any scrapbooking store, such as Archiver's or Michael's, or contact your local Close To My Heart sales rep for supplies!!  Dr. loved it... The look on his face was worth all the work!!  :)

Dr. got me a bouquet of red roses, a bag of conversation hearts (my favorite Valentine's candy), and the most beautiful aquamarine necklace!!  I was completely stunned because I never expected anything so beautiful!!

What touched me the most was the fact that the aquamarine is both our birthstones (our birthdays are in March).  I feel like it has such a special meaning to it, and I've barely taken it off since Friday night!!

Saturday... 

After a few errands and some gym time, I was so excited to receive a package from my parents!!  We always send exchange cards and little gifts on Valentine's Day... My mom and I love buying each other girly little toys and presents, and we take full advantage on Valentine's Day... Pink, candy, hearts, helloooo?!  

Mom's gift to Miss Lola... This talking Hallmark bear is so cute and soft!! 

Mom and I made each other pink Build-A-Bear dogs  :) 

I had to tear myself away from all the girliness and pink and candy and flowers and force myself to study corporate tax in the afternoon.  :(  A few hours later, Dr. and I had the most perfect, relaxing night... We went to dinner, went to the grocery store to buy milk and frosted Valentine's cookies, then enjoyed them with a movie.  I love the fact that I can be myself around Dr... We laugh together, we're playful, and we both love being silly. 

Sunday... 

Sunday morning greeted my city with the best weather we've had since Fall.  The sun was shining, there was a slight breeze, and all the grungy-looking snow piles were melting down the street.  AB, her boyfriend, SL, her fiancee, and Dr. and I all went to brunch at one of our favorite brunch spots.  

Sunday afternoon was bittersweet... Bitter because it was the end of a perfect weekend, and sweet because the sun was shining and Dr. and I went shopping at an outdoor mall.  After a few hours outside enjoying the weather (and inside enjoying some retail!!) I faced the fact that I still had a lot of homework and studying to do, and put my nose in my Tax book again. 

I smiled while typing this post, just thinking about this weekend and how great it was... 

Did you do anything fun/exciting/relaxing this weekend??  Who was your Valentine?!

Xoxo B.

Eye and Ear Candy... David Garrett!!!

On Tuesday night I went on such a fun date!!  We started with sushi for dinner, then went to David Garrett's concert!!  Now, if you know me, you'll know that I appreciate nearly any kind of music... For example, my top favorite artists of all time are Frank Sinatra, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, and Pavarotti.  Quite the variety, huh??

When you first hear that David Garrett is a violinist, you're probably imagining the classics: a guy in a crisp tuxedo, perched on a shining black stool, playing anything from Bach to Mozart to Vivaldi.  But no, David Garrett is a bit more interesting than that... While at his concert, we heard him play Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Michael Jackson, and the score to Pirates of the Caribbean.  No, no, no... David Garrett is not your typical violinist.

 

His attire for the concert??  His signature short ponytail, paired with a suit jacket over a t-shirt worthy of any rock concert.  And on bottom??  Distressed jeans and a pair of beat-up work boots, completely unlaced and hanging open (think Doc Martens style).  Add one gleaming violin and there you have it... The ultimate bad boy who can play your parents into blissful ignorance with his outstanding violin skills. 

Being the son of a German jurist and an American prima ballerina (Umm... Hello perfect gene pool!!) it's not hard to imagine the impressive musical and creative talent Garrett possesses.  His music was pure heaven to hear... The gorgeous sound of the violin playing these great American rock classics, sometimes mixed with a touch of classical was so unexpected and exciting.  I would suggest his classics album for studying or for hosting a dinner party.  His usual rock albums are perfect for anything from road trips to workouts to cleaning/laundry sprees!! 

Altogether now... A collective "Mmmm...."  :) 

For the latest news, info, and concert dates, visit David Garrett's website HERE.

Here's a little treat from David Garrett's website: 

Enjoy!!  Happy Thursday, everyone!!! 

Xoxo B.

Sephora Haul!!!

Enjoy!!

Xoxo B.

Valentine's Day Collaboration!!

My friend Anne loves dogs... So much, in fact, that she created a blog devoted to all things canine!!  Her blog incorporates everything from dog-related issues in current events, great giveaways, dog fashion, adoption, and dog art!! 

We decided it would be fun to put our heads together and combine our favorite things, so I created a Valentine's Day fashion layout with items for you and your favorite pooch!! 

You can find Anne's blog at: agoutloud.com

For all the details on the items in this layout, visit Anne's blog, A.G. Out Loud!!

Happy Tuesday!!

Xoxo B. 

A Few Valentine's Day Date Ideas!!

I know that a lot of people "hate" Valentine's Day, often because they don't like being alone when everyone is going out on dates.  If you don't have a date planned, do not be down about it!!  Take advantage of not having the pressure of buying the perfect gift, going on the perfect date, etc!!  Go on a big group date with your friends!!  I've done this before, and it always ends up being so much fun.  We exchanged Valentines and candy, went to dinner, and saw a cute movie together.  I'm a firm believer that Valentine's Day is not just about romantic relationships, but about love.  It's about loving your family, loving your friends, loving the barista at Starbucks, loving your dog!! 

Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, and many of us are searching for the perfect date idea to surprise or impress that special someone. I wanted to put together a few of my favorite date ideas... Ones that you can modify to match your own unique relationship.  Enjoy!!  :)

Take a class together. 
Try out a dance class, take a cooking class, or try something a little artistic like a pottery class or painting class.   Trying something new or working on skills you already have will strengthen the bond between you.  Laugh at your mistakes, congratulate each other on your talents. 

Do something for someone else. 
If you want to make a difference while still spending time together, try volunteering.  Homeless shelters, food pantries, and animal shelters are very welcoming to extra help.  If you like kids, try volunteering at your local Boys and Girls Club.

Get fit. 
Sign up for a gym membership or a set of yoga classes.  If you live where it's decent outside, find a local hiking spot and hit the trails!!  (Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way!!)

Have a spa day. 
You would be surprised at the number of men who would love being pampered for a day, but don't want to seem "girly" to their girlfriends/wives!!  Check out some local spas, find one that is more quiet and private, and book a couples massage and couples pedicure.  I'll bet he won't be complaining!!

Take HIM out for a change. 
Plan a little date night... Get a gift card to one of your favorite restaurants or to a new one you've both been wanting to try.  If you love movies, buy him a gift card for a movie complete with popcorn and drinks.  He'll like a night off from paying and he'll love the familiarity of doing one of your favorite things together.

Enjoy a night out, taking in the arts. 
One of my favorite, favorite, favorite things to do is to go see a musical, a play, an opera, or a concert.  I love getting dressed up and sipping champagne outside the music hall or in the lobby, and taking in some beautiful music and serious talent.  Do a little research and see what musicals or musicians will be in town... And buy tickets!!  Sign up for updates/news from the particular concert venue or opera house and you'll be sent coupons and special deals every so often.

Enjoy a weekend away, relaxing and de-stressing. 
This one's a bit more serious... Maybe better for a long-term relationship or a married couple.  There are usually really quaint bed-and-breakfasts located within an hour or two's drive from nearly anywhere in the US.  Many wineries or spas outside cities have bed-and-breakfasts or hotels on their premises.  This would make for a perfect, relaxing weekend... Interesting things to do, beautiful scenery, a few great places to eat, and quaint little shops. 

Build-a-Bear. 
I got this idea from my friend AW... She told me that she went on a double date to Build-a-Bear and each couple made a stuffed animal for each other.  They picked out the outfit and accessories, then gave each other the stuffed animal they had made!!  How cute is that?!  I think this date idea is cute, casual, and fun... Plus, it's cute to see what your boyfriend/girlfriend comes up with!!

Get Playful. 
Have a group date at a bowling alley.  Go play laser tag.  Go miniature golfing.  Try out a batting cage.  Race go-karts.  Go to an arcade, play games, and have burgers and fries for dinner.  Have fun!!!  :) 

Do you have a favorite Valentine's Day that sticks out in your mind??  Any other Valentine's Day date ideas??  Do you know your plans for this year??

Xoxo B.

What's In My Bag??

It is one of my favorite features in any magazine... And I have been absolutely loving that so many bloggers and YouTubers are doing it as well!!  I don't know why I'm so fascinated by seeing what someone else carries in their handbag (or murse, for the men in my audience) but maybe it's because the contents of a person's bag are so personal (and usually hidden) that it seems exciting to see what's inside, even if the items are the same mundane things everyone else carries!!

So, last night I dumped out my bag onto my kitchen floor... And this is the story it told (minus a bit of arranging for aesthetic effect!!)

The Basics 

A Big, Roomy Bag
For most everyday activities (class, errands, etc.) I carry a big bag.  This was the Gucci Jockey bag I carried this week.  It holds all my essentials, is easy to match with lots of outfits, and fits comfortably on my shoulder so I can have my hands free for books, etc.  

Headphones
I never know if I'm going to need to study in between classes, or if I might have some free time to edit videos for my blog, so I almost always carry a set of headphones in my bag.

Wallet 
I recently bought this super sparkly wallet from Deux Lux.  It's not a designer wallet, but I am telling you... It makes me feel so cheerful when I pull it from my bag and see how sparkly and glittery it is!!  It folds in two, and holds a lot... Cards, cash, change, and has lots of space for all those annoying coupon/savings cards that every store gives out!! 

#1 - The Necessities

Kleenex
I have to have Kleenex in my bag... Always, always, always.  They always come in handy, and then can be nice ice breakers... You never know what dashing gentleman might need one!!

Colgate Wisps
These are one of my top 10 favorite inventions ever!!!  Basically, if you eat or go more than 6 hours without brushing your teeth, you will love these!!!  They are amazing little disposable tooth brushies with a mouthwash bead in the center and toothpick ends.  They make your mouth feel clean and fabulous, like you've just brushed your teeth!!

CND Mini Scentsations Sparkling Champagne Lotion
This lotion smells just like a flute of bubbly champagne... Fresh, slightly fruity, and reminiscent of a night full of flirting!!  My hands get dry, especially in Winter, and this lotion helps keep them soft.

Nail File
I don't file my nails when I have Shellac (this is a huge no-no, it will break the "seal" the Shellac has formed to your natural nail and the Shellac will lift away from your natural nail) but when my nails are natural I always keep a file handy in case of hang-nails.

#2 - Get Organized 

My Third Arm aka My Phone
I recently split away from my Blackberry and got a Motorola Droid 2 Pro.  So far, I absolutely love it!!  I am hoping to film or write a review here on my blog soon... The Droid took a while to get used to, but it's very fast.


Louis Vuitton Agenda
This is my organizer for everyday life... It's not big enough to write all my assignments in, but it holds all my weekly events, to-do lists, and addresses.  It's the perfect size, and I love that it snaps shut so I can stick papers/receipts/appointment cards in the pages without them falling out.


#3 - Cosmetics

Chanel Natural Finish Pressed Powder in Translucent 3
The perfect powder to touch up shine during the day... It refreshes my makeup and makes it look matte again.  The size is fairly small, so it fits easily into a clutch for evenings out.


Tarte Mineral Powder Bronzer in Hotel Heiress
Sometimes I look in the mirror halfway through the day and my skin looks colorless... I brush on this bronzer on my forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin and it brightens up my whole appearance!!  It has the slightest hint of shimmer, which makes it ideal for when I have no makeup on and need a 5-second improvement to run errands.

Sephora Professional Twist-Up Brush
I like the size and portability of this bronzer brush.  It can also be used for powder or blush.  It does shed slightly... But I haven't found a travel brush that never sheds, so for right now I'm content with one that sheds the least of the brushes I've tried!!


Shiseido Blotting Linens
An absolute must-have for any handbag I carry.  I don't know if I could survive without touching up with these every afternoon!!  They freshen up my makeup and make my skin look matte and flawless.

Travel Tube of Estee Lauder Projectionist Mascara in Black
I am a longtime fan of Estee Lauder mascaras and I love having mini cosmetics to tuck in my handbag!!  Although I don't have to touch up my lashes every day, there are some days when I forget to apply mascara in the morning or when my mascara has worn off after a long day.


#4 - Fixer Uppers!!

Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes
My mom bought me big boxes of these hand wipes for a camping trip last summer.  I just love them!!  They're great to have during cold and flu season after touching door handles and chairs and desks all day, or after touching exercise equipment and weights at the gym.  They smell nice and fresh, not too overwhelming, and are the perfect size to stick in a handbag.


Band-Aids
I think I go through more Band-Aids than a mom with four children.  I'm always ending up with a paper cut from books, papers, or folders at school.  But most of all??  Band-Aids are the perfect solution when I (or anyone around me) gets blisters from wearing a new pair of shoes!!


Tide To-Go Mini Instant Stain Remover
This is another item I seem to use on a near-daily basis.  Highlighters, pens, coffee, Crystal Light... They've all ended up on my tops or jeans or bags... And they've all been removed with a Tide To-Go pen!!  What a genius invention, Mr. Tide  :)

Clear Eyes Redness Relief Drops
Fluorescent lighting and staring at a computer screen often give me these glamorous red eyes.  These eye drops feel so cool and soothing... And they really help take away the redness.


Opti-Free Replenish Contact Rewetting Drops
I love using these drops mid-day to freshen up my contacts and soothe my eyes.  It might seem excessive in combination with the Clear Eyes drops, but computer screens honestly wreak havoc on my eyes!! 

EO Hand Sanitizer
I bought this hand sanitizer at Whole Foods, and I can't get enough of it!!  It smells like lavender and is very herbal... I'm a huge lavender fan, so I love how calming and soothing this hand sanitizer smells.  

#5 - Ponies, buns, and pin-backs!! 

If there is one thing I hate, it's bangs and shorter layers hanging in my face when I'm reading or working on something.  So I always keep this little coin purse filled with stretchy thin headbands, hair ties, bobby pins, and mini claw clips in my bag.  It comes in handy more times than you could imagine!!

#6 - Lip Service

I know there's a lot of lip glosses in this little bag, but I like having a variety to choose from!!  The Hello Kitty zippered pouch was a Christmas gift from my friend Samantha!!  She knows me too well :)

Lip Smackers Sugar & Spice Lip Balm (on top)
From L to R:
MAC Dazzleglass in Baby Sparks
Philosophy S'mores Lip Gloss
Philosophy Melting Marshmallow Cream Lip Gloss
Clinique Lip Gloss in Voluptuous Violet
Liplicious Cup Cakes Lip Gloss in Coconut Cream
LipFusion inFATuation in In The Flesh
Liplicious Tasty Lip Jewels in Crystal Candy

What items are always in your bag??  What do you never leave home without??

Xoxo B.