olé ombré

brown hair dirty blonde hair bright blonde hair Like most gals, my hair style has run the gamut in my life from poorly dyed blonde in high school (it looked orange), to a bowl cut in elementary school (true story), to chin length bobs, long hair down to my low back, blunt bangs, side bangs, long bangs, practically white, and dark brown. I mean, what are we doing if not perpetually experimenting? My once naturally blonde hair has recently morphed into a weird mousy dark blonde/light brown concoction that has now (I’m dying as I type this) sprouted a few grays. I decided long ago I just don’t have the bone structure for a pretty head of brown hair and have kept my hair long and blonde for the majority of my days, but every now and then really need to switch things up. It’s such an easy way to ignite change in one’s life, so last fall when I was feeling down and out with mono I (and by that I mean my wonderful hairdresser) combined my blonde mane with darker roots for an attempt at ombré. At first, I felt like I just looked like someone with horrible roots but after a few weeks (and a touch up) I really fell in love with the multiple colors covering my head. It’s the best of both worlds and didn’t lead me too far from my comfort zone. I now find myself somewhere in the middle from my rainbow of colors above.

ombre haïr blonde tips ombre

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best of tinted moisturizers

DayWear Sheer Tint Release Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 15

What’s a girl to do when a consistent, loving ten-year relationship is suddenly ripped out from under her? When Estée Lauder discontinued my beloved tinted moisturizer not too long ago, I felt totally abandoned. Lost. I had worn this daily since college and couldn’t imagine my life without it. It magically dispersed the perfect amount of coverage for a not-too-makeupy look and left skin moisturized and oil-free. Seriously, it was skin care/makeup perfection. So, after I begged the sales gal at Nordstrom to get real and quit joking with me (poor thing had the misfortune of bearing the discontinuation news) I set out to trial several different products. Of course I had to search online first for any leftovers yet sadly discovered there are just a few remaining bottles for $160.00. Devastation. I visited every makeup counter in the store and decided to try three tinted moisturizer favorites. (I’ll wear actual foundation on weekends, but for an every day product I prefer tinted moisturizer.) Although I’ll always miss my cherished Estée Lauder DayWear Sheer Tint Release Moisturizer, I did manage to find one that appears to be up for the job.

estee lauder

The sales gal naturally went with Estée Lauder’s newest version, the DayWear Anti-Oxidant BB Creme which is a bit heavier and offers more coverage than I care for.

la mer

I’m a little surprised I didn’t like La Mer’s Fluid Tint more. I was convinced it would by luxurious yet simple. It turned out to be much too oily for my skin and clogged my already giant pores right up. Gross.laura mercierThe winner: I realize it’s pretty much a cult favorite and nothing new, but I definitely preferred Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer to the others for its light weight and minimal coverage. Although, it’s easy to increase the coverage without looking too done. Perhaps this is the reason I’ve been getting compliments on my skin lately? Maybe. You try it, and let me know.

But, like a little kid who thinks their divorced parents might get back together I am not giving up hope, Estée Lauder, that you’ll bring back my true love and we’ll be reunited once again.

 

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how-to: red lips

red lips

I love red lips, especially during the holiday season. They’re so traditional and classic, and can elevate a simple look. I’ve heard rumblings from gals (I’m looking at you, Kristine) who are weary of red lips for fear of being too conspicuous or not knowing how to apply it. I think any girl can pull it off with a tweak of the shades or intensity. Here is a quick how-to on applying different layers in order to achieve a wearable red lip that works for day or night. Go on, give it a try.

red lips

Steps for classic red lips:

1.) Exfoliate and prep those girls! For a great how-to on treating winter lips, click here.

2.) Prep with clear and non-glossy lip balm. I actually used my cuticle cream. Sounds weird, but the texture is perfect.

3.) Dot lips with a light layer of foundation or concealer.

4.) Line with lip liner. I prefer a neutral liner rather than red and use Chanel Precision Lip Definer in Natural.

5.) Apply a deeper matte lipstick. I like Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Ruby, which is almost a wine color after several coats.

6.) Top with a red gloss. I use Chanel Rouge Allure Extrait de Gloss in Fatale.

Now go out and enjoy your soirée with red lips that will last nearly all night.

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easy braided updo

braided updo

I’m always looking for quick ways to style my lion’s mane (like this and this) that keeps it out of my face and is more interesting than my go-to top pony. This is a style that can be done in ten minutes or less yet looks très time-consuming, at least according to my husband (isn’t he sweet). This works best with hair that has gone 2-3 days without washing, which is perfect for lazy gals like me.  I used two small clear rubber bands and several bobby pins.

braided pigtails

To start, separate hair into two sections (the part shouldn’t be perfect). Get one section out of your way with a hair band. Begin to French braid the other section starting above your ear.

french braid pigtails

Once both sides are braided, roughen-up the tails so they are messy and thicker.

french braided updp

Twist the braids around your head on your ear side of the other braid. I’ve tried doing it on the other side as well, yet feel like my hair makes a wannabe halo. It makes me feel weird.

bobby pin

Use as many bobby pins as needed to secure the braids. I tried to hide the the tail of the braid underneath the other braid due to my rather dry ends.  (I hope my hair dresser isn’t reading this, she would not be pleased!)

braided updo

Hairspray more if needed. I messed it up a bit more and pulled sections out so it didn’t look too precious.

easy braided updo

What do you think?  Would you try it?

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new sponsor and giveaway!

It is thrilling to welcome a new sponsor to Pearls on a String!  I am especially excited about this particular one because the product is phenomenal, unexpected, and (I am still objective, honestly) was created by my cousin.  If you have not tried handcrafted soap then you are completely missing out.  Tim Ledford, owner of SLAB Handcrafted Soap Company, has perfected his own recipe of luxurious soap that leaves skin feeling soft and lovely.  All of his soap is made using a unique blend of palm, coconut, olive oil and exotic butters utilizing vegetable fats rather than animal fats like most commercial soap products (bad for skin, bad for the environment).  All of the soap is cut by hand in the shop, which is perfectly rustic with brick walls and thick wood beams as decor.

One lucky reader will win five bars of their choice.  My favorites are grapefruit oatmeal, coconut, lemongrass, and ginger peach.  I also love the line of men’s soap that doubles as a shampoo and body wash.  Genius for stinky boys!  Rules for entering: Sign up to follow Pearls on a String if you haven’t already, leave a comment so I know you’re interested, and like SLAB Handcrafted Soap on Facebook.  The winner will be chosen randomly tomorrow by 8:00PM.  Good luck, friends!

{All photos are by William Bragg}

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rent the runway {good decision}

I make poor decisions on a regular basis.  Most recently I ran into and broke the garage door of our apartment complex, unintentionally imitated the accent of a fellow from England while I was talking to him, paid an exorbitant amount for overnight shipping from J. Crew, and repeatedly consume too many baked goods.  However, sometimes I actually exhibit a small amount of wisdom.  Such is the case when I opted to not purchase a so-so dress and decided to rent a gown from Rent the Runway.  I cannot speak highly enough of their impeccable customer service that somehow resulted with me receiving five gowns for the price of one.  I was giddy with excitement driving home from work yesterday, eager to play dress up in attire I surely could never afford.  I would recommend using Rent the Runway to all gals who needs a dress for nearly any occasion.  

I hope everyone has a lovely weekend.  I am busy getting pretty for tonight’s festivities but will be back on Monday with lots of exciting upcoming posts.  With April brings my husband’s birthday, our two-year wedding anniversary, occupational therapy month, and a certain special announcement (no, I am not preggers).  Until then, a sneak peak:

{Freshly painted toes (Chanel April) and fingers (Chanel Distraction)}

{Dare I mix prints at black tie?  Why not!  I am certain this J. Crew clutch will be used again and again.}

{New makeup makes a night out extra special!  Lipgloss in Wild Rose and blush in Plum Attraction}

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daily beauty essentials

Happy Monday!  I hope everyone had a lovely St. Patrick’s Day weekend.  The highlights of my weekend were: discovering that our favorite sushi restaurant delivered, waking up the day after St. Patrick’s Day not hungover, and finishing my best friend’s baby gift.  Wild.  And, can’t forget, I caught up on some overdue magazine reading.

Is there any better ritual than cozying up on the couch (or a lounge chair in the sun) with a stack of new magazines, a tasty beverage, and no specific agenda in mind?  There is something so gloriously indulgent about it that I grow giddy whenever I have the time to enjoy this.  Yes, like many gals I am a fashion/beauty/home magazine junky.  However, the feeling that every item in there has an agenda behind it leaves me feeling slightly used.  I can’t help but wonder if the products they promote are actually the best or if their spot in the magazine was paid for.  For example, I find it fishy that actresses on the cover rock a Dolce & Gabanna dress, Christian Louboutin heels, and a face made up of Revlon cosmetics?  (Oh, and then their full page Revlon ad is on the next page.)  I actually really want to know what the best products are.  

So, if you feel the same as me, settle for much-less-than-second-best and read on for my favorite beauty products.  Then please share some of yours as well and spread the beauty love through tried and true use rather than faux promotion.

{Mascara: Chanel Inimitable Intense in Noir.  I have tried many kinds in my 15 years of makeup wearing and always return to this.  For more daily makeup essentials, read this post.}

{Body lotion: Eucerin Original Healing Lotion.  I have been a faithful user since high school when it soothed my dry, chlorine-saturated skin.  Plus it is unscented therefore will not compete with perfume.  Too much scent = headache.}

{Tool: Clarisonic Mia Skincare Brush.  The hype is for real; it truly helps skin look brighter.  For face wash I use Dermalogica Dermal Clay Cleanser which is amazing for oily skin.}

{Shower gel: Kiehl’s Grapefruit Liquid Body Cleanser.  The scent is refreshing and subtle.}

{Secret exfoliator: Arm & Hammer Baking Soda.  I learned this trick from my friend’s mom in high school and have been using it about once/week since then.  To do, mix a few tablespoons in your hand with water until you’ve achieved a thick paste, rub on your clean and damp face, and rinse.  Your skin will feel unbelievably smooth!}

{Makeup brush: Trish McEvoy Powder Blush Brush.  Good brushes truly make a difference.  It takes a while to build the collection but I promise you’ll enjoy not having little black hairs strewn about and splotches of ill-placed powder on your face.}

{Eye makeup remover: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover.  This is the only kind that takes everything off and doesn’t sting my eyeballs.  *Eye doctor approved!}

{Weekend eye makeup: Chanel Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eyeshadow in Kaska Beige, Winter Nights, and (my new favorite) Eclosion.  The colors are gorgeous and stay put well into the evening.}

Please share your favorite beauty products as well!  I love to try new items.  {Don’t we all?}

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to sock bun or not to sock bun?

Things I hope will never go out of style: top ponies, messy buns, and bright pink lips. Isn’t it glorious that girls today can get away with spending five minutes on their hair and it can be considered chic? Our grandmothers would not approve. (Grandmother Quote: “Doesn’t that get all snarly?”)

I am always looking for quick and easy variations of styling a top pony, because, well, it is way too much work to style this lion’s mane more than once a week. The idea of using a cutoff sock to create a messy chic bun has been floating around Pinterest and blogs. It sparked my curiosity as to whether the sock would make the bun cuter or if it would just be awkward. Interested yet? Here is how to create said chic messy bun:

{First, cut off a sock.}

{Then wrap the sock around a teased, high pony tail 1990s scrunchy style.}

{Start by grabbing one inch sections of the pony tail, wrap under towards your head, and pin the ends with a bobby pin.}

{Continue pinning the pony tail until all of your hair is pinned in a circular formation and the sock is invisible. In hindsight, hot pink was probably not the best color sock to choose. Oops.}

{Add a little sparkle, if you feel so inclined.}

{I began having images of a wannabe lookalike Disney princess so back went the bangs.}

Verdict: I do not think the sock is super beneficial for gals with a lion’s mane, however may be helpful to add fullness for girls with less volume (i.e., a normal amount of hair to have on one’s head). In fact, I ended up taking the sock out. The principle of the method, though, is still quite cute! And it only takes 5-10 minutes. Cheers to my fellow busy gals that don’t have hours to spend on their hair!

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chanel nail polish giveaway

Ugh, is it tax season again? After my own dreadful experience this past weekend I thought that other gals out there may need a pick-me-up as well. Enter: Nail prettiness in the form of my favorite new Chanel Nail Colour Distraction.

I have been rocking it all weekend and every time I steal a glance at my pink/coral tipped fingers it makes my heart warm with thoughts of spring. I am already daydreaming about enjoying adult beverages at an outside cafe while looking out onto the gorgeous Chesapeake Bay. So, you lucky pals, all you have to do for a chance to score said beautiful nail polish is follow this blog and leave a comment on this post (I know, I know, shameless isn’t it?). The winner will be chosen at random tomorrow at 8:00pm (eastern time) and if you are that fortunate person with a beautiful polish in their immediate future I will email you for details. Good luck!

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how to style side-swoopy bangs

I have a lion’s mane.  I used to be (still am?) called Simba and I always need to request extra time at the salon.  As a result, not many people know how to style said lion’s mane, especially my bangs.  I usually leave with some serious 1980′s wings sprouting off my head. 

So for all you fellow thick, frizzy, unruly haired gals here is a quick how-to for taming your bangs and making it to work in a reasonable amount of time.  Lion taming tools you may need: A hair dryer, round brush, 2″ curling iron, styling cream, and hair wax.

{Step One: Put styling cream on wet hair and always style bangs when hair is still damp.  I like Oribe Shine Supershine Moisturizing Cream.}  

{Step Two: The key to side-swoopy bangs with thick hair is to curl hair under with a round brush rather than over which leads to beauty pageant bangs. No bueno!}

{Step Three: Pull the brush through slowly while drying with blow dryer pointed downwards.}

{Step Four: Use a thick curling iron (again, curling under) to flip ends up just a little by curling the iron through to the end.}

{Step Five: Smooth out flyaways and keep hair in place with hair wax.  I like Bumble and Bumble Sumotech.}

{All done!}

Any other tips for styling a lion’s mane?  I can use all the help I can get.

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