Bikinis On A Budget (Starting at $19)

 Believe it or not, I've been scouring the web and B&M stores for months looking for cute and affordable bikinis. I'm not sure if prices of bikinis have risen recently, but most popular retailers are carrying such high end pieces. I can't imagine paying $100 for a bikini top or bikini bottom, especially since it's not something I can wear on a daily basis. When I go to lower end stores like H&M, the design of their bikini are cute but the fit is less than desirable.

I'm very picky about fit since I'm very flat chested and can't wear tops that don't have much support or padding. When it comes to bikini bottoms, I feel that most full coverage bottoms tend to look like diapers on a petite frame like me. I like bottoms with less coverage and on the skimpier side because they are more proportionate friendly for someone my size.

The bikinis above are made by O'Neil. I purchased them via Zappos.com and Pacsun.com. Prices vary between both sites, so I'd recommend doing a little math before deciding which to purchase from with promotions and shipping fees in mind. Zappos offers free shipping + returns with any purchase while Pacsun charges $5 unless your order is $50 or more. The current promo with code MEM15 (ends 6/3): 15% off your order and free shipping with purchases $50+ from Pacsun.

• 1. O'Neill In Love Bandeau Top (via Pacsun or Zappos) XS- This top was very cute in person and I love the side boning and padding for extra support. Unfortunately I'm not keeping this as it ran very wide. I think this (in XS) would fit someone with bust measurement 32" or bigger.
• 2. O'Neill In Love Cinched Basic Bottom (via Pacsun or Zappos) XS - I am in love with this bottom! It's super adorable with cinching on the back and makes the butt appear very bubbly and uplifted. This sits low on the hips and coverage is on the cheekier side, but not in a skanky way. I am happily keeping!
• 3. O'Neill In Love Tie Side Bottom XS. - I love the side tides as they add a touch of sexiness and also are practical for self adjusting. This also sits low on the hips and with skimpy coverage on the back. I am also keeping this one.
• 4. O'Neill Solid V-Bandeau Top XS. I've been wanting a bright yellow bikini and this one fits the bill with support and padding. I haven't received this yet, but I think the fit will be similar to the bandeau so I'm most likely returning this.
• 5. O'Neill Solid Cinched Basic Bottom (via Pacsun or Zappos) XS. I haven't received this one, but I'm guessing the fit will be exactly like #2. I'm pretty sure I will be keeping!

Since I am keeping so many O'Neil bottoms, I decided to order some tops from Victoria's Secret since they have always fit me really well in the past (can't say the same for their bottoms). They are having a sale so most tops are pretty cheap and meet the criteria I'm looking for (padding, support and lots of pushup!).  I haven't received any of the items below, but I'm pretty confident most would fit. My plan is to keep the best fitting 2-3 and return the rest.

• 6. Push Up Bandeau Top (color Sour Yellow) XS
• 7. Fabulous Push Up Triangle Top (color Cantaloupe Craze) 32A
• 8. Push Up Halter (color Cabana Green) XS
• 9. Beach Sexy Braided-strap Push-Up Bandeau (color Cabana Green) 32A
• 10. Forever Sexy BioFit Top (color Fire Coral) 32A

If there are any other brands that you think I should try out (meeting my criteria of fit and price), please do let me know!!

Apricot and Burnt Orange

Aritzia Elliot Pants. Size 00. (similar here, here & here).
For those who haven't shopped at Aritzia before, they have size XXS & 00 which fits like a 2 at H&M.
F21 Blouse. (similar here)
BR Necklace. (similar here)

Nine West Flax Leopard Pumps . Size 5. Sized down 1/2 size. One of my favorite pumps and I get complimented on them all the time. If you are in need of a reasonably priced and comfortable basic pump, I'd highly recommend these. They are also available in colors like: black, nude + a very pretty yellow!

Makeup Tutorial: Part 3 (Eyes + Lips)

• 1) Prime lids with Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion. My eyelids are really oily and this primer helps my shadow stay put all day!
• 2) Using a blending brush, I softly apply a shimmer shadow all over my eyelids and pass my crease. The shadow I'm using is called Onyx by Bobbi Brown (no longer available), but a similar color is fawn.
• 3) Apply shadow that is fewer shades darker on the lower eyelids using a eyeshadow brush. The color I used is called Midnight by Bobbi Brown (no longer available), but a similar color is velvet plum.
• 4) Blend the shadow lines together (using blending brush or smudge brush) until it diffuses and become gradated. If your shadows don't blend together, dip your brush back into the lighter eyeshadow (from step 2) and go over the area a few times where the 2 shadow overlaps.
• Helpful tip:If you have puffy eye lids (aka hooded eyelids) like me, pick darker eye shadows. Keep in mind that darker shadows will make the eyelid recede and bright/frosty shadows will deflect light and make the eyelid appear puffier. I'm also not a fan of most pinky/reddish shadows because it can give the illusion of pink eye or tired eyes.  

Like I mentioned before, I have really oily eyelids. I have experimented with numerous liners and most would fade, smear or transfer under my eyes, but the one that smears or transfers the least is Bobbi Brown Gel liner. It will stay on until you take it off with a waterproof makeup remover (I use Lancome Bi-facil).

• Apply the black gel liner using the ultra fine liner brush. Start from the (1) inner corner of the eyes and extend a line to the (2) outer corner. If you have shaky hands and can't draw one straight line, you can draw little lines (line I have in the illustration) and then connect them all.
• To wing your liner : From the (2) outer corner, draw a small line at a 35 degree angle. Connect the tip of that 35 degree line (3) back to your liner (4).  
• Helpful tip: The key to getting your liner to look "natural" is to draw the line as close to your lash-line as possible. If you have issues doing that, simply lift up your eyelid up (like I have in the illustration) and fill in the "blank" area. 
• Lining the lower lash line is a judgement call. Some say that it makes their eyes appear small, but I think it important for me to line my lower lash line because I have hooded eyes. As you can see below that once I open my eyes, my top liner disappears quite a bit.

 

Lashes are optional, but I always like them for special events, date nights or anytime I'm taking pictures. I feel like they really open up the eyes and make them appear bigger. The lashes I'm wearing are Ardell Demi #101 and I like these a lot because the band of the lashes fit my eyes and I don't have to shorten them like other lashes. I apply my lashes with a tweezer because my hands are too clumsy. After my faux lashes are securely glued on, I will curl my own lashes and the faux lashes together so they are flipping in the same direction. 

 Wearing: Bobbi Brown Pale Pink Lipstick & Revlon Super Lustrous Gloss in pink pop (recommended by Jean)
I always like to keep my lip color pretty light and natural since my eye makeup is on the heavier side.
If you are wear a dramatic lip color, then go easy with the eye makeup. A helpful tint is to keep your lip color similar to your cheek color. They don't need to match exactly, but if you're wearing a coral blush then stay with a coral lip or else you will have too many colors competing against each other on your face. I also skip lip liner because my lips are pretty full and do not have to emphasize them any more.

This is the final post to my makeup tutorial. I hope you have found the tips to be helpful and please let me know if you have any questions. Also remember everyone has different features, skin type and coloring and the products/suggestions I mentioned have worked well for me and may not be for everyone.

Also check out:

Makeup Tutorial: Part 1 (Skincare + Face)

Makeup Tutorial: Part 2 (Eyebrows)

BR Fitting Room Reviews + 30% off purchase of $150+

 

BR Printed Halter Dress. 00P.

I've been stalking the BR site for coupon codes because I really wanted this printed halter dress! I got an email today for a one time use 35% off coupon and couldn't have been more excited to go purchase this dress in store. I'd normally wait for a 40% discount, but was worried they would sell out of 00P. LoL, yes I like this dress that much! The silhouette is quite simple and something I could DIY, but I knew that the print would be impossible to find. The mirror print is so unique and I also love the color combo. The dress is a loose fit and drapes over the body beautifully. The material is silky and lightweight which will be perfect for a wedding I'm going to in hot SoCal this July. I almost forgot to mention the dress is fully lined and very comfortable to wear. I'm really happy with the purchase and would highly recommend it!! PS - I don't remember the last time I was this excited about a dress and especially one at BR.

BR Cross Back Patio Dress. 00P.

The double strap and the print is very cute. The length is also nice for a petite. It's one of those dresses that looks great on the hangar, but kind of underwhelming on the body (on me at least). I also didn't like the elastic at the waist and thought it cheapened the dress a bit. The elastic also caused the fabric to billow above the waist, giving the appearance that I have big odd shaped boobs. Definitely passed on this dress.

BR Pleated Front Tank. 00P.

I chose to try on this top because I really liked the neckline with the pleated details and the gold buttons. I love this jade color and think it would be flattering on pale or tan skin. The length isn't too long and hit right below the hips. My only issue is that it gapped in the chest area and it's a little low cut (definitely not a work top). I'm passing for now, but might consider purchasing if it goes on clearance though.

BR Tile Print Blouse. XSP.

I didn't see an XXSP in store, but it is available online! The XSP I tried was quite blousy and wide and I'm not sure if XXSP would be small enough for a better fit. The print and color is quite beautiful and I agree with the reviewer that this blouse looks better in person. I'd be interested to see how an XXSP would fit. It's not worth buying at full price so I'm passing for now and waiting for the right size and price.

For 30% your purchase of $150+, use coupon code BRTAKE30.

Makeup Tutorial: Part 2 (Eyebrows)

I thought I'd be able to fit the makeup tutorial into 2 parts, but all the eye stuff was getting too long so eyebrows is getting its own post. :)

For me, filling in the eyebrows is so important because my face looks naked without it. I have lots of hair on my head and it's also very dark, but not sure why my eyebrows are so sparse, thin, and light in color.

 To fill in my brows, I use Brun eyeshadow by Mac (this is a nice color for someone with really dark brown hair). The brush I use is  Mac #263 (good for filling in sparse brows).  For thick brows, use Bobbi Brown Brow Brush instead (will deposit less powder for a more natural look).

*The key to finding your eyebrow color is to go a couple shades lighter than your hair color. You never want to match it because it will be way too dark and make you look scary. If you're unsure about what color to use, below are some recommendations:

For black hair: use espresso shadow

For blonde hair: use grey shadow

For red hair: use taupe shadow

Instructions:

• (1) Draw a line from the bottom of the arch that connects to the (2) tip of the eyebrow.
• (3) Then draw another line from the crown of the arch to the (2)tip. Then fill in the rest of the tail area with short small strokes. 
• (4) Draw a line from the bottom of the start of the brows to the bottom arch.
• (5) Then I fill in the rest of the brow with small upward strokes. 

*Also remember to tap off excess shadow before application or else you'll end up with traces of shadow on your face! 

If you are not good at filling in your eyebrows, not to worry because you can easily fix it or erase areas that you want to get rid of. This is also a good method I use to create really clean crisp lines under the brows.

• (6) Take a small concealer brush (I use Mac #195 brush) and dip it into your foundation. Paint over the areas that needs to be erased.
• (7) Take Q-tip and wipe off the foundation.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Also remember to check:
Makeup Tutorial: Part 1 (Skincare + Face)
Makeup Tutorial: Part 3 (Eyes + Lips) 

A Splash of Mint & Giveaway Winner!

The winner of the Stella McCartney inspired DIY dress is Jen K. Congrats girl! Shoot me an email to claim your prize. Thank you so much to everyone who have entered my giveaway!
Out of all my DIYs, I wear this nude skirt the most, not because it's my favorite item, but because it's such a versatile piece that goes with everything in my closet. When deciding what to make for my DIY projects, I often struggle with the question: should I create something that I can wear everyday or make a piece that is unique and spectacular? I've been wanting to make a long gown with an open back just because the idea sounds awesome and it would be a showstopping piece. Then I think about it again and decide not to because it'll just end up hanging in my closet because I have no occasion or event to wear this dress. 

Wearing: 

H&M Mint Blouse. (similar here) 

Aritzia Blazer. (similar here for under $80)

DIY Pleated Skirt. (similar here)

Forever21 Earrings. (similar here)

Michael by Michael Kors Python Tote.

Pour La Victoire Mai Wedge + other colors here.  Gifted. Size 5.5. RTTS.

Makeup Tutorial : Part 1 (Skincare + Face)

Hi everyone and happy belated Mother's day!

I have a tutorial for you that was requested by a reader who wanted to know how I do my makeup. My daily routine is pretty simple and I wear basically the same thing everyday (maybe sometimes different color eyeshadow color or sans the lashes). I used to experiment with many different skincare + makeup, but I finally found products I really like and have been using them for a few years.

 

Before I start on the tutorial, I want share with you the skincare products I use in case you're interested. I also want to stress that it's really important for you to have nice smooth hydrated skin or else your makeup will not sit well. If you have dry flaky skin, makeup will only emphasize that and will not cover that up.

My Simple Skincare Routine:

• Sephora's Flawless Moisturizing Lotion SPF 15 (for day and night) 
• Perricone MD High Potency Eye Treatment 
• Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash 
• And I exfoliate with a face towel (everyday) when I'm in the shower!  

*For reference: I have oily/combination skin 

I love my foundation + concealer because I'm a picker (can't help it!). 

I have gotten so many compliments about how nice my skin looks and sadly it's not because I have nice skin. It's because my foundation does a wonderful job with making my skin look dewy and blemish free!

1) I apply my Lancome's Teint Idole Ultra 24H (color 210 buff) foundation with a large Bare Escentuals concealer brush because it's small enough to get into the crevasses by the nose area. If you don't mind getting your hands dirty, you can also apply foundation with clean fingers.
2) I then buff the foundation into my face with the Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Heavenly Face. This will make your foundation look so smooth and airbrushed! I never skip this step.
3) I use the same concealer brush to apply the Bobbi Brown Corrector (color light bisque) under my eyes to cover up dark circles. The key to applying concealer is to get very close to the lash line and then gently pat down the concealer with your ring finger.

 I don't use a setting powder because both products sit really well throughout the day for me.

4) I apply bronzer around the perimeter of the face and under the cheekbones. Instead of using a bronzer brush, I use a powder brush for a more natural look. I feel that when I use a bronzer brush, it deposits too much color onto my skin and it doesn't look as natural. I use Bobbi Brown Bronzing powder in golden light color. A helpful tip to finding a natural looking bronzer is looking at the undertone and making sure it has the same color as your tan. For example, if you tan yellow (like me) then find a bronzer with a golden undertone. If you tan red, then find a bronzer with a red undertone.
5) For blush, I like a very soft pink color to compliment my pale skin. I use Bobbi Brown's pale pink blush and it's been my favorite color for years! It's a very bright pink color, but has a clear base so it's actually not as pigmented as it looks. Apply blush on apples of the cheeks with a sweep upward and then blend down.

I will cover eyes + lips in another post. If you have any questions, please leave me a comment below.

Also check out:
Makeup Tutorial: Part 2 (Eyebrows)
Makeup Tutorial: Part 3 (Eyes + Lips)