Five Essential Beauty Items for Your Purse

Does your purse hold beauty items for every occasion? Cut down on clutter and never leave home without these five essential items—they’ll keep you looking chic anytime, all the time.

Treat your hands with Molton Brown Pink Pepperpod Replenishing Hand Cream, ($15, moltonbrown.com).This intensive hand cream is an instantly absorbed daily treat for delectably soft and luxuriously moisturized hands with sultry, spicy notes. A luxurious, replenishing hand cream blended with white truffle and spicy pink pepperpods. Who doesn’t love a mini hand cream? It is Perfect to pop in her handbag from morning meetings to evening cocktails!

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Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes with White Tea Extract, ($6, burtsbees.com) remove make-up, cleanse and tone in one easy step. Infused with vitamin-rich White Tea, calming Cucumber plus soothing Aloe, pamper yourself with our make-up remover wipes. Thanks to our handy natural facial cleansing towelettes you can give your skin the care it needs no matter where you are…

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What’s better than one product that acts in two different ways? Nothing! Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil, ($18, josiemaran.com) Apply a small amount to the lips or the apples of the cheeks for the perfect pop of hydrating color. The tinted treatment starts as a cream and melts into an oil for sheer, natural-looking, never-greasy color. In addition to 100% pure argan oil, it’s packed with natural oils and butters from sunflowers, tangerines, oranges and more.

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For those super-hot days ahead, use Avon’s Big & False Lash Mascara, ($9, avon.com). Sweep on from root to tip to double the volume for more glamourous lashes. The breakthrough formula and exclusively-designed brush deliver real lash volume for fuller lashes that look big and bold but never overdone. With its unique Fiber Blend formula, this mascara gives lashes a major boost. With wear that lasts all day and is sweat and waterproof, why wouldn’t you keep this in your purse?

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KMS California HAIR PLAY Makeover Spray, ($19.99, kmscalifornia.com) for when you’re on the go and don’t have time to shower and style your hair. Split-second style refresher, absorbs oil and builds bulk to refresh limp or day-old styles. Great for quick style touch-ups and in-between shampoos and a must have to keep in your bag for whatever your day may bring.

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The Saddle Bag by Ann Taylor

Jumpstart your fall wardrobe with the coming season’s new it-bag: The Saddle Bag

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Ann Taylor offers the crossbody saddle bag in shades of sumptuous suede that are versatile for any ensemble. Whether you’re running errands in your favorite pair of skinny jeans or heading to the office in a midi dress, this bag will carry you through the day with confidence, down to the very last detail.

Ann Taylor’s saddle bag is currently available in stores nationwide and online in dark ruby and black for $118.

The Saddle Bag by Ann Taylor

Striped Knit Top and Jeans – Chic Look

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Sunglasses: Ray-ban| Striped Top:  Target | Watch:  Michael Kors

On this particular day I didn’t know what to wear; I grabbed my blazer, big earrings, and pumps.  I’m not sure if it’s the back – to – school rush or post vacation hustle but I just couldn’t pull it together!

When all else fails (and my brain’s on overload) I lean towards a chic look.  You can’t go wrong with a striped knit top, fitted jeans, pumps, and classic watch.  Don’t forget to throw on your sunglasses, fluff your hair and hold your head high because confidence is always in style.

This is not a sponsored post – 

The links in this post contain affiliate links and I will receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on my link.

Macys Westfield Annapolis: Personal Style Session and Photos

Macys has always been one of my favorite retailers.  For me, it’s more than just the mere act of shopping but I lean towards the overall experience.  I like the store layout, they carry my favorite brands, and the prices are affordable (and the coupons) are amazing!

One hidden secret that many shoppers may not know is that Macys has an in-store styling consultant.  This is a wonderful service at specific stores (nationwide) that can benefit any busy mom, professional, or lady on the go!

My on-site store was located in Annapolis, Maryland where Teresa Borradaile assisted me in selecting a few items. The process began with a simple phone call; Teresa asked me a series of questions about my size, personal style, and favorite colors.  From there, I arrived at her office where she pulled together several looks and accessories. Some of the brands included Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, INC International Concepts, and Vince Camuto.

I was pleasantly surprised because we only had a 10 minute conversation and Teresa narrowed down my personal style with about ten looks!  She also explained the process of scheduling time with her consulting service which is Monday – Friday during the store hours. Clients can enjoy refreshments, try on garments, and purchase items in her office.  Another fabulous tip, she also assists with wedding registry from selecting gowns and tuxedos to bridal party gifts.

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Overall, this was an amazing experience and I truly encourage everyone to schedule time with a Macys Personal Stylist.  Last note, if you’re like me and can’t make a final decision about a product, your personal shopper can hold items and allow you time to make a purchase.  Visit www.macys.com and schedule time to enjoy this VIP Service at Macys Westfield Annapolis.

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First Lady Michelle Obama – We Day on ABC

Tune in to watch the first-ever national U.S. broadcast of We Day, featuring First Lady Michelle Obama, Selena Gomez, Nick Jonas, Jennifer Hudson along with inspiring young Americans celebrating the ‘We’ Movement

We Day airs commercial-free on ABC, Friday, August 21, 2015 at 8pm ET/7pm CT 

We Day, in collaboration with ABC, invites families to tune in to the first-ever U.S. national broadcast of We Day, airing commercial-free on August 21, 2015 at 8/7pm CT.

Selena Gomez, Jennifer Hudson, Common, Tyrese Gibson, Nick Jonas, Demi Lovato, Jennifer Aniston, The Band Perry, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Rico & Raini Rodriguez, Paul Rudd, Josh Gad, Colbie Caillat, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Macklemore, Lupe Fiasco, Shay Mitchell, Dennis Haysbert and Kid President will come together to encourage young Americans to be engaged, active citizens and make a difference in their local and global communities. The First Lady will also share an inspiring message to young Americans; watch Michelle Obama’s video here.

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Michelle Obama

The broadcast, timed just as kids in the U.S. are heading back to school, is meant to bring families across America together for the most important conversations they’ll have all year to explore and discuss social issues faced by today’s youth and how they can take action on the issues they care about. Bullying, struggles with body image, the environment, inner-city violence and literacy are only a handful of the social issues that will be covered in We Day, which features international activists and We Day co-founders, Craig and Marc Kielburger along with iconic celebrities, international activists, and inspiring young Americans that have dealt with these issues first-hand. We Day challenges families to tune in and become a part of the growing movement that is motivating students to take action on issues and create systemic change in communities around the world.

“I am so proud to be part of We Day.  Connecting with hundreds of thousands of youth that are determined to make this world a better place is so inspiring,” said Selena Gomez, Host of We Day. “By coming together, young people are empowered to take action on issues they care about and make an impact – We Day is the movement that sparks inspiration and leads to action. I believe that this is the generation that will change the world, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

“Today’s generation of young people have the power to create and lead real systematic change,” said We Day co-founder, Craig Kielburger. “From bake sales and coin drives, clothing drives and awareness campaigns, youth across America are taking action on local and global issues they care about, and are being caring global citizens in the process. We’re so excited to lead the conversation on August 21st and help families discuss issues that have an effect on such a large part of our youth population. We are all about encouraging youth to take a stand for their passions, and we hope our message will shine through to the whole family and leave a lasting impression.”

We Day is made possible by national title sponsor Allstate, presenting sponsors Unilever and Microsoft YouthSpark, and supported by Walgreens and ABC. Click here to watch the PSA.

What is We Day?

On August 21st at 8/7pm CT tune in to ABC to watch the first-ever U.S. commercial-free, one-hour broadcast of We Day. Celebrating a generation committed to changing their world, We Day features inspiring stories of young Americans. Joined by host Selena Gomez, Jennifer Hudson, Nick Jonas, Common, Tyrese Gibson, Demi Lovato, The Band Perry and more. We Day is made possible by national title sponsor Allstate, presenting sponsors Unilever and Microsoft YouthSpark, and supported by Walgreens and ABC. Check out we.org for more information. You won’t want to miss it!

About the We Day Movement

We Day is the movement of our time – a movement of young people leading local and global change. We Day celebrates and inspires this generation’s shift from me to we – towards acting with intention, leading with compassion, and a belief in the power of community. We Day is one of the world’s largest registered charities on social media, with more than five million followers. This year alone over 200,000 young people will come together in 15 stadium gatherings across the U.S. Canada and UK to take part in this unprecedented educational initiative.

More than a one-day event, We Day is connected to a year-long free educational program, which provides educational resources and campaigns to help young people turn the day’s inspiration into sustained action. We Day and the year-long educational program are cause inclusive, empowering young people to find their passion and create the change they want to see. Together they are a blueprint for building the next generation of global citizens.

Join the We Day movement today at www.we.org.

Teen Choice Awards Makeup Get The Look: Sarah Hyland

LOS ANGELES, CA - AUGUST 16:  Actress Sarah Hyland attends the Teen Choice Awards 2015 at the USC Galen Center on August 16, 2015 in Los Angeles, California.  (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)
LOS ANGELES, CA – AUGUST 16: Actress Sarah Hyland attends the Teen Choice Awards 2015 at the USC Galen Center on August 16, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)

Celebrity makeup artist, Allan Avendaño gave Sarah Hyland a simple, yet bold makeup look to complement her yellow two-piece outfit with turquoise jewelry.

Avendaño began creating Sarah’s look starting with the eyes first using the Pür Minerals Cease Crease Eye Shadow Primer to create a flawless base. He then used the Soul Mattes Eye Shadow Palette and applied the Confidant shade all over the eyelid. Using a fluffy crease brush, he patted Sidekick and Alter on the outer corners of the eye and blended the shades into the crease. He used that same shadow combination on the bottom lash line.

“To soften any hard edges, I buffed the BFF shade into the crease and used the Companion shade on the brow bone,” says Avendaño.

 He then applied two coats of the Pür Minerals Big Look Mascara on the top lashes and one coat on the bottom before applying individual lashes.

Avendaño used the Pür Minerals Color Correcting Primer Illuminate & Glow followed by the Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Liquid Foundation with SPF 15 in Blush Medium with a damp sponge for seamless application. To add dimension to Sarah’s face, he applied the Pür Minerals Mineral Glow on her cheekbones, temples and jawbones. He then applied the Pür Minerals Chateau Cheeks Pressed Powder Blush in Kinky on the apples of her cheeks to add more color.

To highlight, he used the Pür Minerals Afterglow Illuminating Powder on the high points of her cheekbones, the brow bones, the bridge of her nose, the inner corners of her eyes and her cupid’s brow.

To create full and bold-shaped brows, he used the Pür Minerals Wake Up Brows in Mocha and used the highlighter end to amplify the arch of her brow.

Avendaño finished off Sarah’s look by lining and filling in her lips with an orange-red lip liner and applied the Pür Minerals Chateau Kisses Plumping Lip Gloss in Foxy, giving her a hydrated, full and sexy pout.

Fruit – Filled Fragrances for Summer Scents

Fruit-filled scents make for a fun summer; with these fragrances notes, you’re bound to smell as sweet as can be!

Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Fragrance in Vanilla Grapefruit is an addictive blend of juicy pink grapefruit, fresh lime, crisp cedarwood and warm Madagascar vanilla is fresh and inviting. Kissed by sunshine, this unique scent lifts the spirits ($58; Lavanila.com).

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Wild Essence by Halle Berry is a fragrance that truly captures the sensual spirit of a woman and inspired by the idea of connecting women with nature. Desirable and sexy, this multifaceted fragrance has notes of fresh citrus and floral that captivates the raw, natural beauty of a woman. ($28, HalleBerryFragrances.com).

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GUESS Dare features a unique blend of notes, including Pear Blossom and Lime flower, captures the young and bold spirit of the GUESS Girl. The vibrant mix of green and fruity floral notes blends together to create a refresh, yet bold signature scent for the confident, seductive girl. ($62, Guess.com)

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BJs Fresh Produce from Maryland Farms to Club Shelves

Consumers are increasingly more aware that fruits and vegetables that are in-season, harvested closer to their peak ripeness, and transported shorter distance retain more nutrients.  However, according to the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, it is estimated that the average American meal still travels about 1,500 miles to go from picked to plate.  

In fact, the National Grocery Association’s 2014 Consumer Panel found that more locally grown foods and price/cost savings topped the list of the improvements desired most among the shoppers surveyed. 

Today, BJs Wholesale Club is shortening the distance from farm to table by buying fresh produce from local Maryland farms and getting it onto Maryland club shelves in under 24 hours:

[youtube height=”720″ width=”1280″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIRRdBXtqy0[/youtube]

BJs local produce sourcing is at the lead of a growing trend. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), industry estimates suggest that local food sales in America have nearly doubled in recent years, jumping from $5 billion in 2008 to $11.7 billion in 2014.  

In Maryland, BJs is offering Yellow Squash, Zucchini Squash, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplant and Corn from Arnold Farms in Chestertown; Miller Farms in Clinton and Vincent Farms in Del Mar.

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Ashley Stewart Plus Size Clothing: Fall 2015 Trend Report

Every woman should look and feel fabulous at any size.  Below, we have the Fall 2015 Trend Report from Ashley Stewart, Plus Size Clothing.  With retail stores across the country, and a popular online shop, the brand is making waves on the plus size fashion scene.

Trend-essentials that stand the test of time are offered by Ashley Stewart for unbeatable prices of $30-$150

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Military Pieces

You won’t be incognito as you march into fall wearing deep olives and camouflage, but who really wants to be in the background anyway. Ashley Stewart’s bold prints and rich neutrals are perfect for pairing with denim, bright pops of color, and metallic details.

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Fringe

Instantly glam up your look for a night on the town with this season’s must have essential, fringe. Make a statement whenever you walk into the room with show stopping dresses and vests from Ashley Stewart. It’s the perfect way to instantly amp up your look when you get that great last minute invite for a night on the town.

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Day to night

No wardrobe change needed, thanks to these ultra-versatile outfits! Why plan a daytime and evening outfit when Ashley Stewart has foolproof pieces convenient a.m.-to-p.m changes? Plus, it’s the chicest way to save time and a bit of cash. Combining the looks of sweaters and mixed media serves is the best way to go about the fall and winter looks. Ashley Stewart’s classy cuts and great colors take each piece from cute to fabulous in no time.

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Denim

Whether its denim on denim or denim and a pop of color, Denim makes a huge return this season. Dress it up or dress it down and look effortless wherever you go. As a curvy girl no need to worry about if those jeans will fit your curvy figure, Ashley Stewart makes sure that all styles are made to flatter everyone.

About Ashley Stewart:

A pioneer in plus, Ashley Stewart launched in the early 1990’s, capturing the hearts and minds of curvy women throughout the New York area offering inspiring, fashion-forward, affordable clothing in an easily accessible and welcoming environment.  Today, the brand has 90 stores in the U.S. and a growing international presence through www.AshleyStewart.com. As a leading retailer of plus Ashley Stewart continues its heritage of uncompromising style and flattering fit for the curvy, sexy, fashion forward woman.

Whether its last minute short lead fall fashion stories, or Holiday/ Winter Fashion editorials we have an array of coats, jackets, sweaters and more available. Let us know if you would like to call in samples, request additional information or imagery. We would be happy to supply them. We are looking forward to working with you on an amazing fashion story!

Wrapurse | The Handbag Protector

Small Wrapurse in Merlot
Small Wrapurse in Merlot

 

 Wrapurse is a product of convenience, reusability, versatility, and protection. It folds into a small, lightweight carry case, so it can go wherever you go. The high-quality, water-resistant fabric allows you to easily wipe off any dirt or hand-wash the whole thing.
Available in four different sizes, it will fit any purse, tote, or diaper bag. By keeping them clean, dry, and germ-free, Wrapurse will improve the longevity of your handbags!

 

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Medium Wrapurse in Merlot

 

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