Layer It On

The next time you think about picking up a new bottle of nail polish from the store, try layering your old colors first. Layering nail polish can transform colors you already had, to completely new shades. Some ideal combinations include bold/opaque colors underneath, and translucent/shimmery/glitter colors over top. Some of my favorite duos:

lavender + translucent peach (as seen below)

dark purple + gold glitter (as seen here)

mint green + gold glitter

red + red glitter (for the holidays!)

black + 'Luxe and Lush' by China glaze

Pucker Up

I've heard a lot of good things about Sugar Lip Treatment, but have never wanted to splurge on it. After getting a free sample from Sephora for my birthday (by the way, if you're not a Beauty Insider, you should definitely sign up. It's free!), I couldn't wait to try it out. With a refreshing scent of mostly lemon, and a hint of vanilla, this product is long lasting, doesn't feel sticky, and hydrates your lips... just like it claims to. If you're bold enough to shell out $22 for this product, I highly recommend it!

But if you're like me, and prefer to spend less money things for your lips, try the following:

-EOS Organic Lip Balm 

-Aveeno Essential Moisture Lip Conditioner SPF 15

-Softlips Lip Balm SPF 20

Thirty By Thirty

image via http://favim.com/image/406642/

A friend of mine shared with me this article about "things every woman should have and should know" by the time they turn 30. It reminded me a lot of my BFF, R, who never fails to give me good advice. Even if you're not 30, or anywhere close, I feel that this list is worth reading, as it is filled with  many  inspirational points for women of all ages.

• Turning 30: 30 Things Every Woman Should Have And Should Know

P.S., Check out this amazing instrumental version of 'Love Story' by Taylor Swift!

Japonessa

Just a block away from the Pike Place Market, is one of my favorite restaurants: Japonessa. A friend of mine who used to work there describes it as a south-of-the-border inspired Japanese restaurant.  It's a tradition of my friend, R, and I to go once or twice a year (we'd be there more often if we had time). R usually gets the spicy tuna rolls (the best I've ever had!), while I get the classic California rolls. I also recommend the side salad, $1 miso soup, and green tea tiramisu. Between the two of us, we usually end the night with a bill of $20.

There is never a moment where Happy Hour isn't happening at this restaurant. With cheap sushi, chic decor, and great service, I give this restaurant 5 out of 5 stars.

DIY: Hex Nut Bracelet

nail polish: 'Flip Flop Fantasy' via China Glaze //watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom 

With a little bit of creativity, it's amazing how one can turn everyday household items into fashionable (yet wearable) jewelry. The moment I saw this Hex Nut Bracelet DIY on Honestly WTF, I knew I had to try it. A little bit of advice: The website doesn't really give you a good way to fasten the ends of the bracelet so that you can easily take it off/put it on. My friend, K, and I made sliding knots for ours, which you can find directions for here.

Neon Nails

images via Pinterest // American Apparel //River Island //Urban Og

A trend I couldn't be more excited to try is neon nails. They subtly align with the neon trend, and give your hands an instant tan. Some of my favorite shades:

American Apparel NEON nail laquer

'Neon Yellow' by NYX

'Neon Purple 16' by Kleancolor
'Flip Flop Fantasy' China Glaze

'Poolside' by China Glaze

Smoke and Mirrors

image via Jolie Tumblr

I always thought that it would be easiest to blog when you're sad. With so many feelings running in and out of your head, you're bound to have something interesting to write about; something that might help other people get through similar situations. Contrary to my belief, sadness actually made me not want to blog. I became occupied with other things, like finding quick fixes to problems that were beyond my control.

They say that no one can make you feel a certain way, unless you let them. This past month, I learned the importance of not letting others get the best of you, and questioning authority when you suspect they are wrong. Moral of my story? When you're in a toxic work environment, the best thing you can do for yourself is to get out of it. Life is too short to worry about small-minded people.

I apologize for being gone for so long, unannounced. I'm happy to say that I'm officially posting once again. Thank you for your patience and support.

XO,
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