What’s In My Everyday Makeup Bag

by In Advice Tagged , college makeup, everyday, everyday makeup, everyday makeup bag, , makeup blogger, , , , preppy makeup, whats in my everyday makeup bag

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Ah makeup, one of my true loves. There is just something so relaxing about sitting down on my floor in front of my big mirror, pulling out my favorite makeup bag filled to the brim with an array of cosmetics from numerous brands. I enjoy sitting down and taking my time to carefully choose which products and colors I’d like to use for the day. Let’s take a peek inside my everyday makeup bag and what some of my favorite makeup products are.

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First let’s begin with the ever so lovely bag that houses all of my lovely cosmetics and beauty tools. This beautiful cosmetic case is from KyiStitches and is the perfect size for housing all of the products I could ever want to use. I’m a sucker for seersucker and monograms so it’s no surprise I love using this bag to keep everything contained in one place.

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Let’s talk foundation. Now I’m not someone who likes a lot of coverage and heavy foundation which is why I typically reach for the perfect products. From left to right we have Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Foundation by Benefit, Benefit Erase Paste, and Smashbox Photo Ready BB Cream. I typically use the Hello Flawless foundation from day to day to get the perfect amount of coverage while still having that light weight feeling. For any blemishes and hard to cover spots I use Erase Paste. Lastly I usually grab for my Smashbox BB Cream during the warmer months or when I just need a bit more moisture in my coverage.

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Now let’s talk face. As you can see my products in this area have been deeply loved. Once I find the perfect face product I’m hooked and it’s hard to break that obsession. So let’s give y’all a run down of my favorites. From left to right we have the Anastasia Contour palette, MAC blush in Sunbasque, and Rimmel Stay Matte Powder. My typical makeup routine consists of using the middle contour color on the bottom row to contour my cheeks, jawline, and forehead. When I’m heading out for the night I like to focus on a little heavier contouring and adding highlighting as well. My adored MAC blush in Sunbasque gives the perfect rosy color to my cheeks and I use it every day. Lastly to keep my face matte all day I use my Rimmel powder all over my face.

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Now for the eyes. Color choices range from day to day, however there are few I use rigorously each day to complete my look. Starting from left to right we have the first Urban Decay Naked Palette, NYX liquid eyeliner, Maybelline pencil liner, Benefit They’re real Mascara, and ELF Eyebrow Kit. My go to eyeshadows are always in my Naked palette, with so many color options it’s easy to create any look. My color choices change from day to day, but I typically like to smudge the color Buck under my lower lashes. Speak of liner, I typically use my Maybelline pencil liner for my water line. If I’m going out that night I like to use my NYX liquid liner for a darker look. My favorite mascara is Benefit’s They’re Real because it gives my lashes perfect length and volume. Lastly when I want my look to be all pulled together I reach for my ELF eyebrow kit. It has a great gel color and and powder to get the perfect brows.

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My latest obsession, lips. Though I really only reach for these two staple lip items, I’ve been itching to try a few darker lip colors for this winter. Now for the perfect duo I have here, Too Faced La Creme in Nude Beach and Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie Lipliner in Liberated. Combining these two colors gives the perfect everyday nude lip color. I can’t get enough of it.

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Lastly the tools. Just as important as the actual makeup. Though I’m not usually one to spend a lot of money on my tools, I still have my favorites. Starting on the left I have my Real Techniques brush that is perfect for contouring my face. We then have a nice buffer brush from It Cosmetics that is perfect for powdering my face and setting my foundation. Next is my ELF blush brush, it’s perfect for getting the right amount of color on my cheeks. The next two brushes are the only ones I use when it comes to eyes. A flat shader, crease, and smudge brush are perfect for my everyday looks. Last but not least is my eye lash curler, curling your lashes gives such a polished and awake look to anyone which is why I always use it.

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Makeup, for me it’s a relaxing way to start my day, taking my time to careful choose the colors and textures for my look. I encourage all of you to take a little extra time out of your day to really focus on what you’re doing with your every day makeup. You don’t have to be a makeup artist to be into makeup. Trust me when I say a nice face of makeup can really have an effect on how your day goes. You’ll be more confident and excited to show off your new expertise.

What are some of your makeup must haves?

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Christmas Gift Ideas for Men

by In Advice Tagged boys presents, christmas, Christmas Gift Ideas, Christmas Gifts for Men, Christmas Ideas, gifts for men, Ideas for gifts for men, ideas for mens gifts, mens christmas gifts, presents for boys

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Can y’all believe that it’s finally Thanksgiving? I know that I can hardly believe it! Before we know it’ll be Christmas and then we’re on to another year, wow how time has flown by. Since Black Friday is this week I thought what better post than to do a Christmas Gift List for all of you out there buying Christmas gifts for the men in your life. Trust me I know the struggle when it comes to finding the right gift for any guy, it’s tough. Which is why I’ve shared with you some of my favorite gifts to give my favorite men and some that just might work for you!

  1. Drill/tools. This may seem cliche but most men really don’t want to splurge the money to buy one for themselves so help them out and grow their tool collection. Maybe then they’ll be more likely to help you build something in the future?
  2. Loafers. In my opinion there is nothing more perfect for a man to wear than loafers, they can be worn every day or when dressing up!
  3. Watch. Daniel Wellington is one of my favorite watch brands, but there are tons of options in different price ranges out there!
  4. Patagonia Vest. Purchasing a nice jacket or vest for a man is a perfect gift for the winter and is so practical they’ll be wearing it all the time.
  5. Yeti Rambler. These cups are perfect for men, their stainless steel and keep any drinks they have cold!
  6. Wallet. Every man needs a nice wallet to keep everything together, and wallets come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and prices so pick what you think would fit your man best!
  7. Bean Boots. There is just something about a man with his beans boots, call me southern but they are the cutest things ever and a perfect gift if you can get your hands on them!
  8. Beer Making Kit. My mother purchased these for my brothers and dad last year and they all loved them, it’s fun and exciting what’s better than that?

I hope these few Christmas gift ideas for men will hopefully make your Christmas shopping a little easier this year and will hopefully leave all the men in your life happy and satisfied. Don’t forget to look out for my favorite Christmas Gifts for Women coming this week!

Have a great Thanksgiving y’all!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Fall Fashion Favorites

by In Fashion Tagged , college outfits, fall, fall clothes, fall fashion, fall fashion favorites, fall fashion ideas, fall fashion outfits, fall outfits, fashion favorites, fashion outfits, , , preppy fashion, ,

 

 

 

 

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Vest | Hat | Scarf | Black Knee High Boots | Poncho | Booties | Cross Body Bag

Ah fall, it’s here. The leaves are changing, falling, and the temperature is quickly dropping. It’s time to drag out the coats, sweaters, and cardigans and dust off our boots. There is nothing I’ve been loving more than a few good layering pieces this fall which is why I chose the lovely army green vest and the beige poncho. Both pieces are great for layering for added warmth without dying from heat. Accessories in the fall are some of my all time favorites, it must be something about the dark hues and rich textures. These two beautiful pairs of shoes are my go to style for fall and winter, the boots keep you warm all while still being stylish. Lastly adding an adorable bag and hat to an outfit complete the look. These brimmed hats are my all time new favorite accessory, they look so chic and pull together any outfit. And let’s not forget the trusty cross body bag that despite it’s small size can hold everything I need for the day.

What fall trends are you falling for this year?

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Time Management Tips for College Students

by In Advice Tagged , , college girl, , , , doing well in college, doing well in school, , , school advice, school tips, , , , , , , time management, time management tips

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Classes, organizations, work, friends, sleep, and working out?! How does one balance all of these things, it seems almost impossible to get everything done in a day with so much going on. Take it from me when I say time management is essential to any college student. It will help you manage your time efficiently by getting the most done in one day.

Here are my tips I use to keep myself organized and hopefully will help you as well.

 

  1. Actually use your planner. Anyone can have a planner and write down dates and times for events but unless you’re looking back at it and editing things and referring to it, then it won’t be of any use. I live for my planner and without it lord knows how many things I’d miss.
  2. Use an efficiency calendar. Something new I’ve been using to keep myself on track and getting the most out of my days is my efficiency calendar. I do this weekly and sit down and plan out my week hour by hour. Of course some things change, but for the most part it remains. This is a great way to see when you have extra hours in your day where you could fit in extra studying, working out, catching up with a friend, etc. Here is a peek at my week.

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As you can see I schedule every hour of my day to include something important. There are days where I don’t have as much to do, which is fine because I do like to have some free time to do things that make me happy like Netflix, pampering nights, etc.

I also schedule in everything from blogging, classes, studying, meals, sorority events, etc.

3. Color Code. Even if you don’t use an efficiency calendar I suggest color coding your planner so that you know what events are for what class, organization, etc.

4. Sync your calendars on all mobile devices. It’s great to have you calendar updated on your computer and your phone so that at a glance you can see and remind yourself of any events that are coming up that may be very important to you.

 

Time management doesn’t have to be some huge task to get yourself organized, but choosing one or two of these tips and implementing them into your life could help organize yourself and your time. Then you’ll be on your way to being a more productive and time efficient person.

Make sure to check out my YouTube for frequent videos!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

How To Survive Early Classes In College

by In Advice Tagged 8am class, , , , , , having a positive morning, morning classes, morning routine, , , surviving 8am college classes

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So you’ve been blessed with an early morning class while you’re at college, but let me guess you aren’t a morning person by any means? Yeah I thought so, because I’m the same way! Since coming to college I’ve gotten into the routine of staying up late and sleeping in until noon. However I have this dreaded 8 am class twice a week which requires me to be up bright and early, and be ready to pay attention! So, I’ve managed to collect a few tips along the way to help y’all have a smooth sailing morning that’ll have you wide and awake for your morning class!

  1. Wake up at least an hour before you have to leave. You’ll want to give yourself time to get ready and time to do a few extra things to get you awake and ready for class.
  2. Set your phone just out of reach so it requires you to get out of bed to turn your alarm off. Once you’re up you’ll start to feel more awake.
  3. Take 5-10 to just stretch out all of your muscles, doesn’t have to be yoga or anything to intense I just like to stretch out my legs and arms and neck to really loosen up my body.
  4. Rinse your face with cold water. This should help your eyes and face feel more awake and it’ll get any excess oil and dirt off that was collected from your pillows! (Wash those frequently)
  5. Have your clothes laid out the night before so no thinking has to go into what you’re wearing!
  6. Head to the kitchen for some breakfast! This is incredibly important to staying awake and having energy. I usually eat instant oatmeal because it’s quick, yummy, and filling!
  7. Don’t forget to brush your teeth!
  8. Have your bag ready and packed the night before so the rest of your morning you’re not running around like a chicken with their head cut off.
  9. Enjoy your morning! Do what you like to do whether it be watching your favorite netflix show, reading the news, meditating, reviewing last nights homework, or catching up on Instagram.

Welcome to the world of morning people! You can now wake up feeling refreshed, positive, and productive because you’ve taken that extra step in the morning to feel ready and calm for your day. Having an easy morning routine like this makes you ready for your day ahead and you’ll be on your A-game in your morning class! Don’t forget to pack a big bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated and focused during your class!

Have you checked out my Youtube channel yet? NO?! Head on over there today for new videos every week!

Have another tip that might be helpful for early mornings? Leave it in the comments below!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

How To Make Good grades In College

by In Uncategorized Tagged , , how to do well in school, how to make good grades, making a's in college, school advice, , , study advice, studying, studying tips

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Going into college I had the mind set that I would be able to get by without studying for tests, doing assignments last minute, and not reading my assignments. WRONG. High school was easy for me and I’m sure it’s like that for most of you, but I’m here to say college is not like that! YOU NEED TO STUDY, READ, AND DO YOUR WORK! College is not the time to goof off and forget quizzes, class, readings, and tests. These next four years will decide what career and life you will have so it’s time to get serious! So, let’s jump into some tips for making those 4.0s.

  1. GO TO CLASS. I can not stress this enough. Class is optional for most in college, but that does not mean you just skip. You will likely miss important notes, questions, pop quizzes, or hints for questions on the test.
  2. You don’t have to read. LIES. Read your textbooks before class, it’ll help you get a head start on the material and you’ll be able to soak everything in during class time.
  3. Review your notes right after class. Reviewing them directly after class will increase your likely hood of remembering the information. It’s a great way to get ahead on studying.
  4. Create study groups. The classes I’ve done the best in have been the ones where I have a group that I study with. We are able to help teach each other topics we don’t understand and we get more work done because we can break it down.
  5. Attend study sessions provided by your school. These are a great time to get in some extra practice for homework or discuss topics you’re having a hard time understanding.
  6. Don’t be afraid of your professor. Attend office hours and ask those questions you’ve been wondering about. Review information with them. Look over your tests with them and really get to know them. At the end of the semester it could mean the difference between an A and a B.
  7. Sit in the front of the class. There are less distractions, you won’t be tempted to play on your phone and you’ll stay focused on the subject at hand.
  8. Study at least a week in advance for tests. This gives you ample time to go over each chapter, subject, and topic in depth and review them all several times.
  9. Make study time fun! Grab your friends, a pizza, and your books and head to the library. You’ll have a little fun and get work done. Just don’t get too distracted.
  10. Write your notes versus typing them. It’ll be more likely to stick in your head and is one step to remembering the information better.

Welcome to college, where you actually have to work for that A and not just sit back and hope you do well. Hopefully with all my tips from the post y’all will be on your way to making those 4.0s and on your way to an awesome career you love.

Have more tips you want to share? Leave in the comments below!

Make sure to check out my Youtube channel where I’m posting every week!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Welcome to Paradise

by In My Outfits Tagged cruise outfits, , fashion blogger, , jcrew outfits, , monogram bag, romper, styling jcrew, styling rompers, tote bag, travel, vacation outfits, vacation packing, vacation rompers, what's in my bag

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Romper | Tote | Sandals

If you’re in college or maybe you’re in high school either way fall break and winter break are right around the corner! And for some of us that means it’s time to travel to somewhere warmer which is why I had to of course share this adorable romper  from Fascino with y’all before you head out on your travels. It’s perfect for a cruise, trip to Florida, or maybe somewhere else more exotic! Not to mention because it’s a romper so it’s easy to throw on and look put together and it’s beyond comfy! I paired it with my favorite Jcrew sandals which I got on sale for $15, (crazy right?) along with this HUGE tote from KaileysMonogramShop! It’s perfect for packing up all of your things and heading on vacation which is exactly what I used it for this past weekend and I’ll be using again this weekend! It’s big enough to throw in everything you need!

Are you going anywhere fun for fall or winter break? Let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Living Like Lilly

by In Uncategorized Tagged charming charlie, , fashion blogger, girly outfit, , jcrew outfit, jcrew shoes, lilly, Lilly outfits, , Lilly Pulitzer outfit, lilly shorts, preppy outfit, printed shorts, styling shorts

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Top | Shorts (similar) | Shoes | Watch

What’s better than Lilly Pulitzer, not too much! Which is why I love these shorts, they are Lilly Pulitzer inspired shorts, but no where near the price of real Lilly shorts. The fun pom moms and the bright colors really make these shorts stand out! I paired them with a white flowy blouse from Charming Charlie, little did I know they have some really cute clothing items! I couldn’t help but choose to pair the outfit with my new gold sandals that I got a Jcrew warehouse sale for $15! Crazy deal right?! Overall the outfit is pretty simple so I kept my accessories the same way and chose my Kate Spade watch which I love to wear every day. It’s such a cute and girly outfit that can even be worn to transition into fall!

Are you a fan of Lilly Pulitzer? Let me know your favorite thing from her store in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Lilacs & Southern Belles

by In Uncategorized Tagged belle, belles, cowgirl boots, lilac, rompers, , , southern belle outfits, southern girl, southern girl style, styling cowgirl boots, styling rompers

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| Romper | Boots |

 

Rompers, who doesn’t love em’? They’re easy to throw on, they have shorts so you don’t have worry about your dress flying up! They are comfy, easy to dance in and you still look freaking cute in them! Which is why I can’t get enough of this adorable lilac romper from LilyLulus. It’s so feminine and fun I couldn’t get enough of it.

Of course me being the southern girl that I am I had to pair this adorable romper with my cowgirl boots. Of course these won’t be everyone’s style but these suckers are beyond comfy. Excuse the dirt on them because a hurricane just ripped through the east coast and ya girl couldn’t miss a football tailgate for just a little rain, so it was muddy that day! Adding a pair of cowgirl boots really dresses down the outfit and makes it a little more fun!

Make sure to follow LilyLulus on Instagram at @lilylulusboutique to order more cute items like this romper! Use code SB15 at the checkout to get 15% off your order!

Are you a fan of cowgirl boots? Let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Olive is the New Black

by In Uncategorized Tagged booties, brown booties, daring accessories, fall clothes, fall fashion, fall outfits, fashion blog, fashion blogger, navy clutch, olive, shift dress, styling olive, t-shirt dress 2 Comments

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| Dress | Shoes | Necklace | Clutch |

Olive. My new favorite color, fashion’s new favorite color, and the best color for fall! How can it get any better than that?! This dress is a perfect transition piece between fall and summer. All you have to do is throw a cute cardigan or jacket and you’re set to go on a colder day or go without a jacket on a warmer day. This color is so flattering and I can’t get enough. Not to mention this dress is probably the softest, more comfortable piece of clothing I own. It’s easy to throw on for class, work, running errands, a meeting and more!

To spice up my outfit I decided to add a few daring accessories. The first being this gorgeous navy clutch, it’s HUGE and it’s perfect for a night out on the town or even just running around during the afternoon. With it I chose to pair this hand made arrow necklace that is perfect, the colors are great, the length is on point, and it’s totally in style. Lastly I recently picked up these HOT HOT shoes online from a boutique called Love You Back, they are so comfy (yeah I said comfy) and stylish. The unique style is perfect for spicing up this simple dress. Plus I wore these the other day and got several compliments on them!

What’s your favorite color to wear in the fall? Let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle