OOTD: Walk like an Egyptian

H&M White Button Down

(I love this shirt, but it wrinkles in 2 seconds)

F21 Scarf

Nordstrom Belt

Old Navy Leggings

(they have lace on the sides, but you can'tsee them in the pics)

Faded Glory Black Snake Skin Flats

So my outfit isn't all that snazzy and it definitely looks better in person (I don't think this pose is doing anything for me). The weather has been so non-committal here in CA. Over the weekend it was 85 and then rain all week long. WTH. I just hope it clears up for Easter and for my wedding since it's outdoors and we will not have a tent. Eeeeeks.

I have my hair/make-up trial tomorrow (see my posts here and here to give me some feedback on my ideas) and I cannot wait! My stylist N is so talented and I know I'm going to look FLY. Just and fyi, I'm trying to bring the word "fly" back.

I painted my nails last night with Sinful Colors Cloud Nine 853

I like the color, but it's so bright on my hands. I think it would be better if I had a darker skin tone or just on my toes. Unfortunately, we're all out of nail polish remover so I'll be rocking this until I get a chance to pick some up. Oh did I mention I put this on top of three coats of Essie Topless and Barefoot? Oy vey.

What are you guys doing for Easter? It's my favorite holiday and I can't wait to see our families. The Fiance's birthday is on Monday and mine is the following Monday so we're also celebrating our birthdays with his family as well. I'm going to make strawberry cupcakes and decorate them with chick and bunny marshmallow Peeps. I'll be sure to post some pics!

Wedding Post: My Make-up

For my big wedding look, I've been going back and forth between super glam and a natural look for my big day. I want to look like myself, but the best of myself. I'm pretty natural with my make-up on an everyday basis, but when I go out, I do my make-up to the max, full on style. Here are some looks I love and wanted to use as examples with my make-up artist. I want make-up that compliments my overall look and isn't competing with my hair or jewelry. I want it to enhance my features, be photo-worthy and reflect my style.

The "Natural" Looks

I love the soft smoky eyes here, soft pink/nude lips, and glowy cheeks -a little less "glow" than Hayden's though. This look reminds me of that hot "girl next door" vibe and I think it will be great with our wedding (a classy, backyard event). With the help of some major faux lashes, I'll be made-up emough to be stand out. Also, this is a great look that will still be beautiful in 10, 15, 50 years from now.

The "Glam" Files

Darker smoky eyes, va-va-voom lashes, darkened eyebrows, pink cheeks and lips.
This is what I'm leaning more towards, I feel like this is more "me". I'm wearing my hair down (see this post from last week) and wearing pageant-worthy jewelry and I don't want my make-up to take a backseat.

What do you ladies like best? Should I do a combo, a little bit of this and that? Which is your favorite look? Which picture(s) should I bring in as examples?

Another Awesome Braid

A few weeks ago, Kim Kardashian's braid she wore to the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards was a huge hit with you ladies (check it out here if you missed it) and I was trolling my saved pictures that I keep for fashion/beauty inspiration and these two caught my eye!

Now, I've down a braid like this before, of course I don't have any pics to show you... yet- I'll rock it again, but it was so easy! It's similar to braiding the big side of your part (by big I mean the side with more hair), but this allows you to rock hair in the front and still rock a braid. Two for one, bananas.

Do you like it? Do you think it's too much?

Do you think braids will ever be out? I sure hope not, because I've always rocked them- it's just such a simple way to keep your hair out of your face. What's your favorite braid trend so far?

Product Review/MAC Dupe: e.l.f. Studio Blush in Pink Passion

e.l.f. Studio Blush in Pink Passion $3

A few weeks ago I was browsing Target, checking out their e.l.f. section and came across this little gem. It instantly reminded me of my favorite MAC Pink Swoon blush (see my review here) and quickly swooped it up. For $3, why not give it a shot??

From the site, the blush promises to give a "soft sheer texture blends into the skin for a silky finish Designed to be worn alone or layered for more depth." I think it's definitely a dupe for MAC's Pink Swoon, the colors are so similar as is the texture. The blush is very sheer and easy to layer for a stronger color. I would say the only difference is that the e.l.f. Pink Passion goes on a stronger shade of pink than MACs. You do not need a lot to start, it is pretty bright and it's better to add more than have too much. It also lasted my work day which I was worried about, I half-expected it to wear off by lunchtime. I also love the package, very similar to NARS packaging and comes with a small mirror on the lid.

I'm really happy with this purchase (especiall the price tag!) and plan on re-purchasing in the future. I also want to try other shades, I have my eye on Candid Coral next. I've had great experiences so far with e.l.f. cosmetics (see my reviews here) and I hope that Target starts to carry more of their items.

Have you tried e.l.f. yet? What's your favorite product? Have you tried MAC Pink Swoon? What has your experience been?

Congrats to the Mr and Mrs T!

The Fiance's Best Man was married this weekend (see his Man Shower here) and we couldn't be happier for him and his wife. They're a great couple and we wish them a long and happy life together.

The wedding was beautiful and so much fun. My camera's battery died so all I have are some so-so pics from my phone. My future Mother-in-Law got some great shots, so I'll have to get some from her.

The happy couple exchanging vows

Outside the St Paul the Apostle Church- such a beautiful church (and huge!), check out the tour here.

There was some time to kill inbetween the ceremony and reception...

During cocktail hour at the Richard Nixon Library

The Fiance giving his speech. He did such a great job and was so funny!


Mother and son dance


Here' a close up of my outfit and hair. I just did a simple braid on the side to change things up a bit.
I got the dress from Kohl's the night before! It was so comfortable, easy to wear, and on SALE!
Total score. I can't wait to wear it again.
Ultra Pink Lace Chiffon Dress in M
Earrings from David's Bridal
Nine West wedges
Coach clutch

How was your weekend? I hope everyone has a great start to their week today!

PS I only have 10 working days until I'm off for the wedding. Insane.