Looking for a last minute nail design to wear for the holidays? Check out the following 4 tutorials:
2. Sparks Fly
Half-Diamond Mani
nail polish: 'And a Cherry On Top' SEPHORA by OPI // 'Key to My Art' Finger Paints
A twist to the well-known half-moon manicure, the half-diamond manicure is an easy way to add pizazz to otherwise, simply painted nails. To re-create this look, all you need is blue painter's tape, scissors, and two different colored nail polishes.
STEPS:
1. Paint your nails with your base color, and wait several hours for the polish to set and dry.
2. Cut 10 small strips of blue painters tape (see picture below for size reference). At the bottom of each strip, cut out a small triangle. These will be the stencils you use to get perfect half diamonds.
3. One at a time, place the stencils you made in step 2 on to your nails, and paint on your second color. Once the paint is semi-dry, slowly peel off the tape. TIP: I recommend completing one finger at a time. That way, you won't need to struggle with having tape on all your fingers.
Good luck, and feel free to comment with any questions!
Spikes 'N Studs
sweater: F21 $22
Lately, I've been overly obsessed with spikes and studs. They have the ability to add instant trendiness to any outfit, in an effortless way, which is a definite plus for a graduate student, like me.
Here are some of my recommendations for spiked and studded pieces:
1. Knitted Rib Stud Cardigan via Topshop $96
2. B.P. Spike Necklace via Nordstrom B.P. $18
3. Elizabeth Knight Spike Earring via Urban Outfitters $45
4. Studded Ankle Strap Flats via Forever 21 $20
5. Gold Stud Suede Clutch via Topshop $76
6. Studded High Waist Hot Pants via Topshop $70
7. Carole Spike Bracelet via Nordstrom B.P. $12
Or, if you're feeling crafty, check out these DIYs by the Honestly, WTF blog:
Hot Cakes
Earlier this week, G and I went to a cakery in Seattle called Hot Cakes. Right as we walked in, the first thing I noticed was the strong, yet sweet chocolate aroma, and the charming decor. After looking at the menu for almost 10 minutes (we couldn't decide!), we ended up getting a Peanut Butter Cup Molten Chocolate Cake, and a glass Butterbeer (a mix of champagne, fresh ginger, homemade butterscotch, and organic apples) to share. Just as we expected, both things were amazingly decadent, and full of flavor.
If you're ever in the Seattle area, I highly recommend going to Hot Cakes, especially if you have a sweet tooth. Even though things there are a bit pricey there, the experience is well worth the money.
Visit them at http://www.getyourhotcakes.com/. And no, this is not a sponsored blog post.
DIY Holiday Gifts for Under $6
This year, thanks to my crafty friend, K, I've been really into DIY projects. For each thing we've tackled so far, the materials have been inexpensive, which is a definite bonus for a graduate student, like me.
As I was making all of these things, I realized that they would also serve as great gifts. If you're looking for inexpensive, yet chic DIY gifts for the women in your life this holiday season, I highly recommend the projects included in the picture above.
Tips, tricks, and tutorials:
Give Thanks
Today, I'm thankful for the friends that I've met through blogging, the friends that I've had for as long as I can remember, family, and all the opportunities that have come my way.
I wish you all a festive and wonderful time with loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!
I wish you all a festive and wonderful time with loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!
XO,
SWEATshirt DRESSshirt
Advice From a Germ-a-phobe
One of my worst fears is getting sick, especially when I have a lot to do. Whenever one of my family members, friends, classmates, or clients are sick, I make sure to keep my distance, wash my hands with soap and water before I eat or touch my face, and rinse out any dishes or silverware I use with hot water. A little excessive? Maybe.
I'm not sure if it's because I'm paranoid, but a lot of the time, I find that washing my hands isn't good enough to prevent myself from catching a cold. Here is some advice I've accumulated over the years that helps me stay healthy:
- Surrounded by people with colds/the flu? Check out Echinacea, a natural herb that reduces inflammation in the body, which can lead to diminishing the first signs of a cold. You can find it in specific teas, or capsules at your local health food store, or supplement outlet.
- Did you know that about 70% of our immune system is located in our digestive tract? If you've ever accidentally shared food or drink with someone who has a cold, probiotics can be your new best friend. Probiotics, a good type of bacteria, help maintain a strong immune system. They can be found in probiotic capsules, or more naturally, yogurt, pickles, and dark chocolate.
- Want to keep it simple? Drink lots of water to help your body flush the sickness out of your system.
- Already feeling sick? Take a hot shower, relax, and get to bed early. If all you have is the common cold/flu, I guarantee you will feel at least a little bit better come morning.
Sincerely,
A Germ-a-phobe
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