Favorite e.l.f Products

In the past few months, I've become obsessed with makeup products which can get pretty pricey, but luckily for any makeup wearer on a budget, there's e.l.f. "Top Premium Cosmetic & Makeup for Less" is what they describe themselves as, and for the most part, they're pretty dead on. For those of you not familiar with the brand, e.l.f (eyes, lips, face) sells makeup, makeup tools, and other cosmetic products for super cheap-- anywhere from $1 to maybe $5 tops-- at most drugstores (I buy mine at Target). Although most of the makeup and tools I've purchased from the line are amazing, the whole "you get what you pay for" still applies on some products, so I thought I'd share with you all what is worth more than the few bucks they're sold for.

Lipstick $1:
My lipstick collection has grown tremendously in the last month or so with some products priced at more than $10 (yes, I know, it's bad), yet this one is still one of my favorites. I used to have a couple of different shades, but now I'm down to just one in a light pink called "seductive". The color pay-off is wonderful without having to often. It's also really hydrating which is something you usually have to compromise with cheap lipstick.









Makeup Mist & Set $3:
I'd been wanting to try a setting spray for a while because my oily skin doesn't like holding makeup very well, but I didn't know where to start. While reading a review for a foundation, I saw someone mention they used this little guy, which I had no idea existed, so I went out and bought it thinking I'd eventually upgrade to something better. As of now, I have no intention of switching to a different brand. This one does the job just fine. I was afraid that it'd make my face sticky, or clog my pores and cause me to break out, but that's not the case at all. If you do choose to go out and try it for yourself, do know it has a distinct odor going on, but it doesn't stay on your skin.

Clarifying Pressed Powder $1:
Like I said, I have pretty oily skin, so I'm always looking for a powder that will help control and conceal that. I've tried some that are made specifically for oily and acne-prone skin at a much higher price, and this one gets the job done just as well. While it's not my go-to product, it's still one of my favorites mostly because of its size. Also, a little goes a long way this one as it's pretty pigmented.










-Gabee

Denim, Denim, and Not So Much Makeup: Summer Edition

Back in September, I posted Denim, Denim, and Makeup, which consisted of a pretty simple denim button-up and black denim shorts. Yesterday, I found myself wearing a pretty similar outfit with a much more summer feel, so I though it'd be fun to do a little post about it.

The top is actually the same, I just removed the sleeves a while back when it started getting warmer. Honestly. I love this top. I wore so often in the cooler weather, and now, it's summer friendly so I can continue using it.

The lavender shorts, in trend with all things color and pastel, add a refreshing summer look as opposed to the black shorts I wore back in the fall. I bought these online at Forever 21 for my birthday, and unfortunately, they fit a bit loose so I have to belt them.

The belt is from Kohl's.

Another difference from this look and the previous one is my necklace. In the other look, I went with a pearl necklace to add a bit of sophistication to an otherwise very casual outfit. This time, I wanted a very casual look, so I went with a simple music note necklace from Target.

As far as makeup is concerned for this look, I kept it very simple. I'm wearing a creamy eyeshadow with a slight purple tint because I wanted a more toned down look. My nails, however, are completely different.

I absolutely love the whole bright color current trend and I love showing it through my nails even more.

My favorite nail polish currently is Wet n Wild's Megalast in "I Need a Refresh-Mint". The color is gorgeous and it lasts just long enough until I want to try a new combination. I did glitter as an accent nail --Wet n Wild's Wild Shine in "Sparked" (courtesy of our good friend Lynda's couponing which we shall feature very soon!).

Shirt: Target $15 or $20

Shorts: Forever 21 $13.50

Belt: Kohl's $1.98

Necklace: Target $10

Blue Nail Polish: Walgreens $1.99 (bought as part of a buy 2 get 1 free promotion)

Glitter Nail Polish: CVS $0 ($0.99 without a dandy coupon)

Denim, Denim, and Makeup

Let me start off by saying that red lipstick makes me feel like a bad@$$, and I usually smile in pictures.

Regardless, this isn't another "I threw this on this morning because I hate Tuesdays" post. I actually want to talk about makeup as an accessory, and I'm not saying it's a must-- I only wear makeup once or twice a week nowadays, anyway-- I just really believe it has a large impact on an outfit.

For example, when I first put this outfit on, I paired it with my Converse sneakers, my hair was in a ponytail, and wore a silver "peace" necklace and ring; the moment I applied the red lipstick,--which I've been dying to wear for weeks-- however, I knew it was all wrong.

To me, the red gave me a more mature look that did not match the sneakers nor did it scream for peace. So, I let my hair down, exchanged the cutesy jewelery with my favorite pearl necklace, and BAM! I had a completely different outfit.

It's the same with eye makeup. I go for dark mascara and eyeliner whenever I'm going for an intense, dramatic look, or if I'm feeling less bold, I lightly brush on a nude, yet glittery, eyeshadow.

Now let's get to the outfit which, all together, I'd describe it as sophisticated casual-- kind of funny considering I usually wear my denim shirt over dresses to tone down my look, but it must be the black shorts and pearls that make me feel... older? Very simple and comfortable at the same time.

Ps. I cannot wait until it cools down here in Phoenix. I'm not exaggerating when I say half of my closet is filled with sweaters, jackets, and cardigans I'd love to share with y'all!

With love, Gabee.

Shirt: Target $15 or $20

Shorts (originally pants): Yard Sale $2

Pearl necklace and bracelet: Gifts

Shoes: Coach (A gift to my sister, not actually mine)

Lipstick: Wet 'n' Wild $2 (Longlasting despite the price!)