Sunday Brunch
Category: Uncategorized
My Everyday Fall Makeup Routine
Hey beauties! Today I’m sharing my everyday Fall makeup routine! It’s quick, easy and wearable for any occasion. Enjoy!
Products Used
(Set under eyes with translucent powder)
Nars Pro-Prime™ Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Becca Ombre Rouge Eyeshadow Palette
Marc Jacobs Beauty Magic Marc’er Precision Pen Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
Lora Perfectly Lit Powder in Spotlight
Maybelline Nude Nuance Lipstick
Thanks for stopping by today!
xoxo,
Steph
My New Holy-Grail Acne Fighting Products| Skincare Update
Lately I have been trying to find a skincare routine that works for me. My skin has been crazy the last year, and will either be very oily or very dry– and acne prone. This combination makes it tough to find products that fight acne without over-drying. I’ve been hesitant to do an “Updated Skincare Routine” because I’ve struggled to find products that really work. There are so many amazing, quality products on the market, but they may not work for your unique skin-type. After tons of trial and error, research, and several trips to Sephora to chat with the experts– I’ve found 3 produts that have been working wonders on my skin.
The 3 products I’m loving are the Murad Time Release Cleanser, Sunday Riley U.F.O., and Kate Somerville EradiKate™ Acne Spot Treatment. I use them in that order, morning and night. Come on, I’ll tell you some more about each product!
Murad Time Release Acne Cleanser
What is it?
An extra gentle anti-aging acne cleanser that contains sustained-release salicylic acid to help clear skin (without over drying) and maintain youthfulness.
What does it contain?
0.5% salicylic acid treats acne while amino acids and hyaluronic acid bind moisture to skin
What does it do?
Time Release Acne Cleanser’s low foaming formula delivers sustained-released acne medication and improves skin’s appearance. It does not foam much because ingredients that create foam can cause drying. “Encapsulated salicylic acid technology” provides a long-acting acne treatment that stays active even after rinsing. Amino acids and hyaluronic acid bind moisture to skin to optimize hydration and restore suppleness while antioxidants neutralize free radicals to preserve a more youthful appearance.
Why I LOVE it:
As I talked to the lady at Sephora, I questioned why I should choose this cleanser over Murad’s (or any other brand’s) harsher acne cleanser. She explained that the lower , slower release of salicylic acid would be less harsh on my combination skin and not just an “instant fix” product. I love the tingly feeling this cleanser has when you wash your face, I actually feel like it’s working. It also it has a fresh minty scent, which I personally love!
Sunday Riley U.F.O. (Ultra Clarifying Oil)
What is it?
A quick-absorbing, medicated dry oil to clear congested pores, treat and prevent acne, and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for clearer, smoother skin.
What does it contain?
1.5% salicylic acid to treat acne , tea tree oil and black cumin seed oil support clear skin, while hexylresorcinol and licorice naturally brighten the appearance of old acne discolorations for a more even-toned complexion.
Why I LOVE it:
I instantly fell in love with oil as soon as I tried a sample. Immediately after I finished my sample jar, I ran to Sephora to purchase the full size! This oil has really calmed my skin and left it feeling moisturized but not oily. It absorbs into the skin quickly, and soothes any inflation or redness on the skin. I used 3-4 drops at night before bed and 1 drop in the morning. Sometimes I follow with a moisturizer, but honestly I feel like U.F.O. is enough on it’s own!
Kate Somerville EradiKate™ Acne Spot Treatment
What is it?
A strong blemish-banishing acne spot treatment to fight pimples, zits, and future breakouts.
What does it contain?
Actually NOT salicylic acid! haha I love salicylic acid, but sulphur is also a great ingredient to fight acne. EradiKate™ Acne Treatment is specifically formulated with the highest level of sulfur allowed to effectively heal blemishes, reduce acne, and help keep skin free of new breakouts. AHAs are designed to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores while zinc oxide, a natural mineral, provides oil control by absorbing excess sebum production. The result is clear skin that lasts!
Why I LOVE it:
I’ve heard a lot about this treatment and I finally decided to give it a go! I’ve found success with drugstore spot treatments, but found I had to apply them for several consecutive days to see results. This one works overnight!
What else you need to know:
-
EradiKate™ Acne Treatment is most effective when applied to affected areas as soon as blemishes or pimples are noticed. Here’s what Kate says:
“Do you have a pimple you can feel but can’t see? Use EradiKate on the area immediately to help prevent it from surfacing.”—Kate Somerville, Founder
- Apply with a cotton swab. Don’t double dip to prevent bacteria contamination.
- Do not shake the bottle!
Thank you so much for stopping by! These are some products I’m truly impressed with, so let me know if you try them out!
xoxo,
Steph
Product Info From: http://www.sephora.com
Fall Trends: The Bomber Jacket | How To Wear It + My Top Picks for Every Budget!
Bomber jackets have been everywhere lately! They’ve been a part of fashion for decades, but have recently made a huge come-back. And according to Google, one of the fastest rising fashion trends. The bomber jacket—or MA-1 if we’re being technical—has a long history that spans from the middle of the 20th Century into today. Starting as a jacket that was used for pilots and the military, the jacket has evolved into an outerwear staple that’s seen high fashion upgrades for both men and women today.
Today, I’m going to show you how I style my bomber jacket, as well as give you some other of my favorite options. The bombers I’ve found come in a variety of styles and colors; some are cheaper, and some are a higher price tag if that’s what you’re in to. 🙂 Here are top picks!
My bomber jacket is from American Eagle and it was $69. I think its a good in between price. It’s amazing quality and I love the embroidered print on the black base.
How I Style It:
I honestly throw this jacket on with just about anything. It dresses up a pair of joggers or dresses down a nice lace dress. It’s just so versatile. Here I kept it super casual with denim shorts, a black graphic tee, a choker, and sneakers.
bomber: American Eagle/ shorts: Brandy Melville / choker: Kitsch
2. Forever 21 Embroidered Bomber – $32.90
This one is very similar to mine for half the price! Plus, the white panel on the sleeves adds a cool touch!
3. Brandy Melville Kasey BomberBrandy Melville Kasey Bomber – $45
I love the simple pink style and affordable price tag. You could wear this color with just about anything.
4. Scarlett Clothing – Baby Pink Patched – $98
Again, I love the baby pink color — but this one has super cute patches!
5. Scarlet Clothing – Opening Ceremony Pink Bomber – $525
This one is definitely a splurge, but it is just so pretty! And the quality is amazing. Apparently I have a thing for pink bombers…
6. Milk It Vintage Khaki Bomber Jacket – $84
I love how the boho prints contrast with the army green. Such a unique find!
Those are my top picks for bombers! Do you like the bomber trend? Which was your favorite? Let me know!
Stay happy and healthy.
xoxo,
Steph
sources:
A Brief History of the Bomber Jacket: http://www.complex.com/style/2015/03/a-history-of-the-bomber-jacket/early-civilian-use
Think with Google: 2016 Fashion Trends: https://storage.googleapis.com/think/docs/twg-fashion-trends-2016.pdf
My Favorite Every Day Fall Lipsticks | Drugstore
Fall is the perfect time to break out the bold, dark lips- but most days you probably want a color you can wear to school or work and still feel appropriate. Today I picked out some of my favorite shades that are tame, but still give you that fall feel. I chose a range of warm and cool nudes and berries, so you’re to find one just for you! Here are 5 lipsticks (and 1 gloss for them all!) that’ll spice up your everyday look this season.
1. Maybelline Touch Of Spice” – this color is perfect if you like a mix of pink and brown. I grab this color all the time! It reminds me of the classic “Kylie Jenner” lip color. It goes with almost any outfit and looks good on every body! My best friend Kathryn wears it, who has lighter skin, green eyes, and light blonde/brown hair. My grandmother wears it, and has warm tan skin, dark brown eyes, and caramel hair. It just works on everyone!
2. NYX “Butter” Matte Lipstick – the perfect “grey nude.” If you want to try the grey trend, but don’t want to go full on grey lips- choose a “Greige”: a beige nude with a hint of grey.
3. Maybelline “Nude Nuance” – This is probably my current favorite. It’s a deep browny- nude shade, something I used to never gravitate toward. Now I love the fact that is still a neutral without going super pale nude. It enhances my natural lip color, and can look glam, edgy, or casual depending on what look you pair it with. Like “Touch of Spice”, it looks good on a lot of skin tones. But, within this line, there are several shades in the same color family– so look for one that you think will suit you the best!
4. Maybelline “Party Pink” – If you like a brighter berry with a pink tint, you’ll love this shade! It’s bright enough to add a pop of color, but deep enough to still look like a fall shade. I love wearing this color on days I don’t want to wear a lot of makeup, but still want to look put together.
5. Soap & Glory “Super Nude” Matte Lipstick – this is the perfect warm pinky nude for a fall smokey eye. This is my first Soap & Glory lipstick, and I definitely want to try more. The matte formula is creamy and not dry at all. Plus it smells like vanilla, never a bad thing!
6. Rimmel “Captivate Me” Stay Glossy Gloss – this sheer shimmery berry gloss will go on top of any of the lipsticks I mentioned. It will enhance the darker colors, and add just a hint of berry to the nudes. I love this line of gloss because it lasts well and isn’t sticky.
Thanks for stopping by! Let me know if you try out any of these lip colors!
xoxo,
Steph
Fall Break Vlog: Short Hair, Workout, and Fall Shopping!
Hey guys! Long time, no see! Sorry again for the lack of videos and blog posts! I know I’ve said that a million times, but now that I’m on fall break and fall golf season is over, I am going to have time to film more videos! Yay!
I wanted to start up with a vlog! I came home for a short fall break yesterday, and am enjoying the time home with my family! This video includes a little hair update, booty and legs workout, and some fall shopping! Enjoy! 😉
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Stay happy and healthy.
xoxo,
Steph
September Beauty Favorites
1. Trust Fund Beauty Base Coat
Trust Fund Beauty makes nail polishes that are Vegan, Cruelty Free, Paraben Free and 10 Free (the most common toxins in nail polish) I’ve used their polishes before, but I’ve been searching for the perfect base coat to wear underneath polish, but also alone to strengthen my nails. I love this one because it is made without harsh chemicals and is rich in protein amino acids to strengthen your nails. It goes on nude and dries clear.
To go along with the perfect base coat, I picked up Trust Fund’s Top Coat and I’ve been loving the super shiny finish it gives my polish. I haven’t experienced much chipping when I use this top coat and again- I love that it’s toxin free.
This nail polish had been my favorite all month! A deep dusty rose, it’s the perfect shade for the beginning of Fall! It’s not too light or too dark and gives your nails a feminine touch without being too pink. I swear when I wear it, I get so many questions about what color it is!
This blush has been a cult favorite in the beauty community for years– and for good reason. This neutral dusty rose goes with any makeup look, and has just a touch of plum. It’s the perfect everyday fall blush.
5. Becca Cosmetics Champagne Pop and Flowerchild Duo
My amazing best friend Katherine gave me this gorgeous duo for my birthday. She knew these two are my absolute favorite cheek shades, so having them together in one gorgeous compact is awesome. I love Flowerchild for an everyday pink blush and Champange Pop is the perfect “golden glow” highlight.
6. Marc Jacobs Magic Marc’er Precision Pen Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Again, my bff (aka the QUEEN of winged liner) got me this liquid eyeliner for my birthday. It is without a doubt the best liquid liner I have ever tried. Not only is it super black and easy to control– it does not budge! I have to use coconut oil to remove it. It’s amazing. I have literally slept in it and it was still there the next morning. Yep. You can do all sorts of shapes and graphic liner with this thing. Good job Marc.
7. Co. Bigelow My Favorite Night Balm No. 306
I found this lip balm by accident while strolling through Bath and Body Works and noticed that the Co. Bigelow lip products were 2 for $12 so I decided to check them out. I used to wear their lip shines all the time in middle school. I saw they had a new night time balm and decided to try it. I addicted now. This is probably the most nourishing lip products I’ve ever tried. The formula is smooth and thick but not sticky. It also smells like vanilla, which I love.
8. Co. Bigelow Lemon & Pomegranate Lip Cream
I also wanted something to just throw in my bag to wear over any lip color (and that smelled good!) This Lemon & Pomegranate lip cream is so refreshing!
9. Victoria Secret Scandalous Body Mist
My sweet roommate gave me this body mist for my birthday and I absolutely love it! I’ve been opting for body mist instead of perfume for during the day and this one smells amazing. It’s just the right balance of sweet and fresh.
Other Favorites Worth Mentioning…
Music
Marren Morris
I’ve recently been loving her music– she has such a unique style. My two favorite songs by her are “80s Mercedes” and “Drunk Girls Don’t Cry”
X Ambassadors
“Low Life” and “Unsteady”
Fashion
Chokers
I’ve been super into the choker trend as of late. I think a simple black choker can add so much personality to a simple outfit. Check out my “10 Under $10: Choker Edition” for some cute & affordable options!
I hope you all enjoyed my September favorites! I can’t wait for the weather to really cool down so I can break out my boots, sweaters, and vampy lipstick! Let me know your favs. 😉
Stay happy and healthy.
Xoxo,
Steph
I’m Still Here! | College Life Update + Advice
Hey beauties! Sorry it’s been so long! This past month I started college… starting with move in day, freshman orientation week, an awesome orientation trip, ending the first few week of classes, and now turning 19! Meanwhile, I had been practicing hours every day for a huge dance competition — Shirttails — that my college has for the freshman dorms every year. (sadly my dorm did not win.. but it was still so fun!) It’s been a lot. But amazing.
I wanted to write a quick post on what I’ve learned so far and also a quick update– hopefully any other freshman can relate! Even though it’s barely been a month, and classes have not gotten over whelming YET – it’s still quite an adjustment from living at home.
That first week you’re just trying to take it all in and see this whole new world around you. My school has an entire week of orientation prior to upperclassman move-in day and the first week of classes. I literally had a meeting or activity every hour of the day. It seems like it would be a bit much… but they really force you to get to know the campus and your fellow class mates– which is good! I’m used to being an only child, so living in a dorm with tons of other girls is quite different. But I love it! I love my room mate, and we’ve made the most of making our tiny dorm feel like home.
Once classes start, reality hits you that it’s not summer anymore… all the free time you had is sadly no longer there. But the bright side is– college is so different than high school. Even though you’re crazy busy, you some how feel like you have time to do what ever you want. You have so much more control over the classes you take, and you can really study what you’re passionate about. My school, in particular, is a liberal arts college which encourages you to take classes in a variety of learning domains. For example– my major is Business Econ but I’m taking Spanish, Psych, and World Religions. They may not exactly go with my major, but they’ll make me a more well rounded, knowledgable person.
One of the biggest things I’ve experienced in college is dealing with stress. And no, I’m not more stressed– I’m less stressed. I know, I’m surprised too. Being the perfectionist that I am, I tend to overwhelm my self and therefore deal with feelings of stress and anxiety. I was worried that since I wouldn’t have time to really film YouTube videos and keep up with my blog, I would feel like I failed. Or that I needed to keep up. But, I actually don’t feel like that. I know that I am in college and my main focus should be that– college. Studying hard and having fun. I’m still here, I’m still “Beauty and Bananas”, and I’m still going to be posting. It just may be a little less frequent. And thats okay. I thought of what I would tell a friend that was stressed out or trying to live up to her high expectations. “Just let it go. Take life a day at a time. Don’t worry about being perfect.”
Going along with “not trying to be perfect”, I’ve learned to just be as healthy as I can without being obsessive. Living a healthy lifestyle should not be stressful. Most college cafeterias have so many options now, that you eat fairly healthy. And indulge when you want to. I haven’t been working out quite as much as I did at home, but I’m staying very active with all the walking and golf practice.
I hope this post can be of some comfort to any freshman in college, or anyone in a “transition” period in their life. I’ll be back soon with some more beauty/health posts, but let me know what else you would like to see!
Stay happy and healthy.
xoxo,
Steph
DRUGSTORE BEAUTY FAVORITES
Hey beauties! I know we all love to save some money on makeup when we can, but we also want good makeup. I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite drugstore makeup products that I believe are just as good as the high end version. These are products I actually do repurchase and love!
There’s a time to splurge, but there’s also a time to save! 😉
Stars and Stripes
Hey guys! Today I have a quick little style post for you. I teamed up with Scarlet Clothing to bring you a fun look that’s perfect for going out with friends or a fun date. I wanted to make this statement leather skirt more casual by using a relaxed top and sneakers. All items shown are from Scarlet Clothing. If you see a piece you want that is not online, you can text to order at (501) 503-8777. P.s.- this skirt is only $48! Continue reading
beautyandbananas 