Ask PPF: My Makeup ~ Part 1

I have been getting alot of comments and questions about how I do my makeup.  And although I have discussed it some in previous posts (here and here), I thought it would be helpful to go into more detail about the actual application.  Because there is so much to cover, I will be breaking this into 2 posts - this first one will be focusing on the face and the next will be about the eyes.

PREP:

Before I get into the breakdown of my steps, I have to say it is incredibly important to treat your skin right from the inside out.  We all know we need to drink lots of water and eat healthy...but I also noticed a marked improvement in my skin when I began regularly taking Triple Omega 3-6-9 (which is also good for your heart).  Secondly, moisturizing is SO critical...especially this time of year when the air is a bit drier & cooler.  I swear by CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion - it was recommended to me by my dermatologist and it is wonderful for keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day.

BASE:

After washing & moisturizing my face, I apply a pea-sized amount of primer.  I let that set for about a minute and then apply my foundation.  I personally like using this sponge for application because it blends better and I seem to use less than with a brush.

CONCEAL & SET:

After my foundation is on, I apply my under-eye cream & concealer to cover any dark spots or reddened skin.  Again, blending is KEY!  Next, I set with translucent powder - instead of brushing it across my face in strokes, I like to dab or pat the powder brush directly on my skin (it sets the makeup better & doesn't smear your concealer).  Then I apply blush to the apples of my cheeks & sweeping upwards on the cheekbones. 

HIGHLIGHT:

The last step is arguably the most important for getting that "lit from within" look and I never skip it.  I put a small dab of highlighter on my finger and apply it in a C shape from the apples of my cheeks, across my cheekbones & up to my temples + a few other strategic places (further instructions outlined here).

I hope this was helpful & answers some of your questions - please let me know if you're interested in a makeup video tutorial and what you'd like to see!

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Preppy Chic + Poshlocket Giveaway ~ CLOSED

By now, I think it's abundantly clear that I am a jewelry fanatic.  It doesn't seem to matter that I have an overflowing stack of bracelets/piles of necklaces because I can always justify just one more.  I love finding new sites with unique (& affordable) pieces, so I have to share with you about Poshlocket.  They have a wide selection of beautiful jewelry...and they offer free shipping & returns on all orders!

Some of my favorite items from their shop are these colorful enamel bangles (so fun for stacking), this turquoise pebble cuff (perfect pop of color for spring) and these simple gold cone studs (they go with everything)...and, of course, this gorgeous matte gold organic bangle I'm wearing here. 

What I'm wearing:

ASOS top (on sale here), Old Navy shirt, ELLE jeans, Mossimo pumps (here), Target belt, Mudd glasses (on sale here), Rafē New York clutch, BCBG necklace, Bracelets: Vintage & c/o Poshlocket (here), Nails: Essie A Crewed Interest, Lips: Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter Candy Apple

Love these pieces as much as I do?  You're in luck because Poshlocket has generously offered a $30 gift card to their store for one PPF reader!  Here's all you need to do to enter:

* Be a follower of PPF on Google, Google+, Facebook, Twitter, RSS or BlogLovin
* Follow Poshlocket on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest
* Leave a comment below with your email address so we can contact you if you win

You have 6 days to enter (open to US residents only) - the giveaway will close on March 4th at midnight EST and I'll announce the winner the following day!

Disclosure: Poshlocket sent the bracelet free of charge for me to review.  I was not paid for this post and all opinions expressed here are my own.

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Steals Under $30

I'm trying to get back on a regular bi-weekly schedule with my SUT posts...since so many of you commented about how much you love these.  I went slightly over on the blouse below...but with their current sale, you can still get it for less than $30!  I also provided two options for shoes, because I know not everyone loves high heels as much as me.

Joia Mod Sunglasses - $15.00

BaubleBar Tournesol Studs - $26.00

Old Navy Bird Print Blouse - $34.00 (20% off today using code ONSPRING,  makes it $27.20)

H&M Coat - $29.95  

Windsor Store Red Crocodile Clutch - $22.90

Mossimo Ankle Pants - $24.99

Levity Nicolo Pumps - $29.94

Zigi Soho Slick Flats - $24.94

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Lip Service

With spring just around the corner (I hope), now is a great time to think about freshening up your makeup for the warmer weather!  Since I know how frustrating it is to go hunting for that perfect shade of lipstick, I thought I would share with you some of my favorite brands/colors that I feel confident will look good on every skin tone & are perfect for the coming season.  I've grouped them by color (oranges & pinks) and from lightest to brightest (left to right).

Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Smoked Peach - $6.99 (pastel matte peach)

Revlon Moon Drops Blase Apricot - $8.99 (creamy orange/pink coral)

L'Oreal Colour Riche Volcanic - $9.49 (bold orange/red coral)

Sephora Collection Rouge Cream It Girl - $12.00 (bright coral tangerine)

Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Stormy Pink - $6.99 (cool matte bubblegum pink)

Cover Girl Lip Perfection Temptress - $6.99 (bright watermelon pink)

Maybelline Color Sensational Fifth Ave Fuschia - $5.50 (creamy true fuschia)

Rimmel London Kate Moss Collection 002 - $5.19 (bold hot pink)

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Back to Winter

As much as I love to pretend that it's spring outside, sometimes it's just really not that practical (case in point, notice the snow falling in the photo above?).  This weekend I was forced to revert back to my tried & true winter pieces - a warm wool coat (with military-inspired details), a good-fitting flare jean (these come in short, regular-length & tall) + some fun extras (like sequins & leopard-print).

What I'm wearing:

J. Crew blouse (this season's colors here), Old Navy coat, Lauren Conrad jeans (on sale here), Rosegold booties, Target belt, Michael Kors watch, Forever 21 necklace (here), Zara clutch

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Floral Frenzy

I have to confess, this was one of those trends I wasn't completely enamored with at first.  But, the more I see of it, the more it's growing on me (no pun intended).  Admittedly, it is a more fashion-forward look & may not be for everyone...but I plan on starting small by mixing one flowery print with a solid color for a spring look that's fresh & feminine.  If you're not quite sold on these bold pieces yet, try easing into it with just one accessory item (like the airy scarf below). 

ZARA Floral Print Shirt - $59.90

Dorothy Perkins Floral Pencil Skirt - $45.00 (25% off using code DPVIPD)

Forever 21 Floral Skinny Belt - $4.80

H&M Floral Pants - $14.95

StyleMint Georgia Tee - $29.99

TopShop Floral Pleated Skirt - $76.00

H&M Floral Scarf - $12.95

ALDO Cosano Floral Clutch - $45.00

ASOS PARIS Point Court Shoes - $44.76

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DailyBuzz Style 9x9: Runway to Real Way

I was so thrilled to be selected for February's DailyBuzz Style 9x9 challenge.  This month, we were asked to choose a runway look & then translate it into something wearable for everyday.  Here is my inspiration photo, taken from the 3.1 Phillip Lim S/S 2012 runway:

I am a huge fan of the colorblocking trend and love the idea of using this concept with different pastel shades for spring.  To make this "real way", I added my grey fur vest so it would be winter-weather appropriate & to help balance out the sweetness of these hues.  Though I chose seafoam & pink, other color combinations I love (& would encourage you to try) are coral + mint, pale yellow + baby blue or lilac + peach. 

What I'm wearing:

East 5th blouse (here), The Limited pants (here), Fabulous on a Dime vest (on sale here), ELLE pumps, J. Crew necklace & clutch, Lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Stormy Pink

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Say Hello Diamonds Winners

Thank you to everyone who entered this amazing giveaway and a special thanks to Say Hello Diamonds for sponsoring - we have two winners to announce...

Melissa

Carolyn

Congratulations ladies - I will be emailing you shortly to get your address information so I can send you your earrings!  For those who didn't win, don't forget you can still get 40% off your entire order when you shop their store here - all of their jewelry is stunning & would make an amazing Mother's Day gift! 

Stay tuned for more giveaways coming up soon!!

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February Birchbox

This is my last Birchbox in my 3-month gift subscription from The Stylish Housewife (thanks again to her for getting it for me)!  And it just so happens to be my most favorite so far...I loved every single item in it.  Take a look:

1) EYE ROCK Designer Liner
What it says: Stop wrestling with the liquid liner and achieve a perfect cat eye with these single-use stick-on liner strips.
My review: I am beyond excited about these.  But, instead of trying them now, I've decided to save it for a separate post so I can show you pictures of how they look and the different designs inside the pack.

2) dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
What it says: Skincare insiders swear by this genius exfoliating powder.  Just add water to create a rich paste that will buff dead cells away.
My review: This couldn't have come at a better time - I have been on the hunt for a new exfoliant and I absolutely love this one.  It says to use daily, but because of my sensitive skin, I'll probably only do this once a week.

3) Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint
What it says: The votes are in, and this award-winning tinted moisturizer tops the list.  It's our daily shortcut to dewy, glowing skin.
My review: It definitely does what it says and gives you a nice glow...but if you need a medium to full coverage makeup, this isn't for you.  It will be perfect for me in the summer months when I want something lighter on my face.

4) The Original beautyblender
What it says: This hot pink sponge is a pro favorite that helps your foundation look airbrushed, no Photoshop required. 
My review: I have been wanting one of these since I saw an ad recently about them - now that I've tried it, I will never go back to my old sponges.  Because of its unique shape, you can blend your makeup better into those hard-to-reach spots like the inner corner of eyes & around the nose.

I also received 2 "lifestyle extras" including the adorable heart-shaped neon nail file (so cute!) seen in the picture above and a digital download of six free songs from a new indie rock band (I'll give this to my hubby).

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Periwinkled

Thankfully, we had done some outfit shoots last weekend before all this crazy snow arrived...when you could still see the grass & the road.  Although it's been a mild winter this year, I am so ready for it to be over & have pretty much started living in denial.  My solution for the cold-weather blues?  Break out pieces from my spring wardrobe & just pretend that it's warm & sunny (even if I'm only wearing them around the house).  And on days when it's far too frigid for this, I'll paint my nails a summery coral & swipe on a Barbie pink lipstick - every little bit helps!

What I'm wearing:

Collective Concepts blouse, LOFT skirt (sold out online - check your local stores; similar style in navy here), J. Crew necklace, Banana Republic bracelets (DIY instructions here), J. Crew clutch, JS by Jessica pumps (here), Nails: Essie California Coral, Lips: NARS Roman Holiday

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Spring Manicures

I've only done one manicure tutorial on the blog before (here) and since I've made it clear I'm no expert in this field, I decided to share with you some cute ideas for spring nails that I've found through Pinterest.  I am not usually a big fan of the super-crazy nail art, but these options below are still playful (and fairly easy to recreate) without being over-the-top. 

Neon Tips

Nautical

Polka Dotted

Color-blocked

Animal Print

Glittered

Neutral Stripes

Tiny Heart

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Steals Under $30

I've been doing so many shopping posts based around spring trends that I had almost forgotten it's been weeks since my last edition of SUT!  Some of my favorite recent finds include a fun polka-dotted blouse (with a low scoop back), a dainty heart ring & super-chic sandals that only look expensive!

Forever 21 Dotted Woven Top - $19.80

Mossimo Pearl Flat Sandal - $24.99

TopShop Cut Out Heart Ring - $10.00

TopShop Chunky Chain Multi-Row Necklace - $28.00

MANGO Messenger Bag - $28.99

MNG by Mango Slim-Fit Jeans - $30 (also comes in coral & medium wash)

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Valentine Red

This month's Bloggers Do It Better challenge was appropriately themed for today's holiday...RED!  Of course, I already wore my red trousers styled 4 ways last week (here), so I had to pull out the only other red piece I own.  This time, I decided to pair it with melon, which is one of my favorite color combinations for spring.  (If you could see out the window in these pictures, you would notice the complete whiteout conditions...which is why we were forced to shoot indoors.)

What I'm wearing:

H&M blazer (similar here), Dorothy Perkins blouse (similar here), Gap trousers (similar here or more affordable option here), ELLE pumps, J. Crew necklace (via eBay), Forever 21 & Banana Republic bracelets, The Limited clutch

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Say Hello Diamonds Giveaway ~ CLOSED

I have talked before about investment pieces (here) and wardrobe essentials for each season (Winter, Fall, Spring, Summer).  Similar to a LBD or those perfect nude pumps, a must-have jewelry piece for every woman's collection is a pair of diamond studs.  Obviously, we can't all afford the real version...but, thankfully jewelers have come a long way towards creating simulated styles that have just as much sparkle for a more reasonable cost. 

I was recently introduced to Say Hello Diamonds (you may recognize the name from their December feature on the Today Show).  They offer gorgeous replica diamond jewelry that looks like the real thing, but costs much less!  When they sent me their rhodium-coated 2 carat Pantina studs to review, I compared the earrings to the Hearts on Fire diamond in my wedding ring and honestly could NOT tell a difference (sorry honey!).  And it's no surprise, considering each stone is put through a rigid selection & inspection process before being chosen to use in their stunning jewelry.  Just to give you an idea of how these look on:

Here's a closer look at them:

Just in time for Valentine's Day, I have partnered with Say Hello Diamonds to giveaway not one, but two pairs of these brilliant stud earrings ($195 value/each).  They come in a red velvet box and would make a perfect gift for a friend, sister or this upcoming Mother's Day (of course, you can keep them for yourself too - I wouldn't blame you!).  Here is what you need to do to enter:

* Be a follower of PPF on BlogLovin, RSS, Google, Google+, Facebook or Twitter (see sidebar for these options)
* Sign up for the Say Hello Diamonds mailing list (here) - they will not share your information and will only send you sale alerts
* Leave a comment below with your email address so I can contact you if you win

You have 1 week to enter - contest ends 2/19 at midnight EST and I will announce the winners the following day.  If you just can't wait to see if you won, you can shop their store here (they are currently offering 40% off your entire order using code DIAMOND40 + free standard shipping on all orders in the US & Canada).  Good luck!!

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PPF Turns One!

One year ago today (thanks to the prompting of my sister-in-law), I took a leap into the world of blogging.  I still laugh when I think back to those early posts, my pathetic generic site design & the mediocre outfit pictures.  But, I am so thankful that I stuck with it - it's been an incredible journey and I honestly wouldn't change a thing!  There are so many people I need to thank...without whom, this blog would not be what it is today.

First & foremost, I have to thank you, my readers.  You are the reason that PPF exists!  My sole purpose for starting this site was because I wanted to help & connect with other women.  I so appreciate your comments & feedback - getting to interact with you on a daily basis brings me such joy.  I can't thank you enough for your loyalty & support...it truly means the world to me.

Secondly, my husband - who has been, hands down, the biggest fan of my blog.  He has taken pictures for me in the sweltering heat, pouring rain, fierce winds & falling snow.  Plus, he has worked countless hours on graphics, programming and marketing for this site.  Oh, and he also puts up with my shopping habits when I get a little out of hand and gently reminds me to keep the "penny pincher" in my fashion.  Love you babe! J

And last (but certainly not least), my blogging friends...who have encouraged me, inspired me & helped me along the way.  There are truly too many to name here, but the girls I can't imagine life without are: The Stylish Housewife, Pencil Skirts & Lattes, The Average Girl's Guide, My Dressy Ways, The Frugalista Diaries and Simplicity is Ultimate Sophistication.  Thank you ladies for your friendship, for making me laugh & for cheering me on...I'm so grateful for each one of you! ♥

Here's to many more years of fabulous & affordable fashion!!

What I'm wearing:

Zara top, Old Navy skirt, Fabulous on a Dime necklace (here), Lips: Maybelline Fifth Ave Fuschia, Nails: Milani Neon Totally 80's

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Ankle Strap Sandals

I know it seems a little early to be thinking about wearing sandals but I am obsessed with these delicate ankle strap styles (just purchased the ZARA ones below!).  I love the feminine feel they have to them and, as long as you pick a thin strap, they are incredibly flattering too!  Here are some of my favorites - I've included edgy & girly options at all different prices so there's something for everyone!

Mossimo Petra Patent Sandal

Qupid Halo Sandal

ZARA Basic Sandal

Steve Madden Stonned Sandal

MANGO Criss Cross Sandal

Nine West Look Global Sandal

Boutique 9 Doetzen3 Sandal

BCBG Paris Gylda Sandal

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