Shades of Summer

This summer, I've been all about citrus-inspired shades, hot pinks, and bright blues on my nails. If you're ever having trouble deciding on a single color (this holds true for me... all the time!), here's a tip: try experimenting with two or more different colors. Paint an accent nail, or every two fingers a different color.

Some colors I recommend:

-'Peachy Keen' China Glaze

-'Flip Flop Fantasy' China Glaze

-'For Audrey' China Glaze (not pictured)

-'Strawberry Electric' Revlon (not pictured)

-'Mellow Yellow' Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear (not pictured)

iLove

image via http://totallycrazylove.tumblr.com/

I never thought I would be saying this, but, I have moved over to the dark side. I now have an iPhone. After thinking about it for several months, I felt that this was a change that needed to be made in my life. As a person who is frequently out and about for school and internship purposes, I felt like my lack of internet connection prevented me from doing a lot of things: blogging, doing research for homework assignments, and navigating my way through the roads of Western Washington to see clients.

I know that it's possible to be without a smart phone, as I've done so for several years. However, being able to do what used to be, "really complicated stuff", with just the click of a button is... magical. This is all a luxury and can be lived without-- I know. However, living in the 21st century with a quickly advancing technological world, we might as well soak it up if, and when we can.

So, if you're wondering: Yes, I love having an iphone, and I highly recommend it.

What do you think of smart phones? In your opinion, are they helpful, or detrimental?

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Fashion Rack

Just a week and a half ago, my roommates and I moved out of our overpriced apartment, and into the cozy top floor of a house. It had been recently remodeled, with a brand new kitchen, and other fix-ups. Our new place was much better than our last place, not only because of everything that had been re-modeled, and the price, but the location had a lot more to offer.

Despite all the benefits, I'm going to be honest, and say that during the first two weeks, I didn't really want to be here; not because I disliked the packing and unpacking process of moving, but because I'm the type of person who likes to stay in one spot for a really long time. There is just something about being in a familiar space that gives me comfort.

Since I wasn't able to change the situation, I decided to make the best of it. I decorated my room a little nicer than usual, and got a fashion rack! I was really excited for this, because I knew it was going to be great way to find inspiration, and make me want to be at my new place more.

fashion rack: Bed Bath and Beyond //hangers: IKEA //purse: Michael Kors (macys.com) // front shirt: Urban Outfitters

the prettiest shoes I have ever seen (courtesy of my lovely boyfriend): Nine West

Aspirin Mask

One of my latest favorite at-home remedies is the aspirin mask. Aspirin, an everyday pain reliever, contains salicylic acid, and when dissolved in water, creates a sandy texture, allowing it to act as an exfoliant. On days where I feel like my skin needs an extra pick-me-up, this mask is definitely the first thing that comes to mind.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED: uncoated aspirin

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Place 4-5 tablets of aspirin in a small dish, or the palm of your hand. Add a few drops of water to them, and wait about 30 seconds for them to dissolve. The consistency should be paste like, and not too watery.
2. Do one of the following: A) Gently rub the mix around your face for 30 seconds, and rinse. B) Add honey to the mix, leave it on for 15 minutes as a mask, gently rub it around your face, and rinse.

TIP: To prevent your skin from drying out, use this mask no more than a few times a week. I have acne prone skin that is used to harsh products-- so I do fine with using it mask every other day.

**CAUTION: Do not use if you are allergic, or are known to have dangerous side effects to aspirin.

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!