Holiday Hair Ready: Oh So Fancy...

Dress-Banana Republic last season (similar)

Hair-Dolce Vita Salon

It's here.. a moment to dress up and feel fancy.. is it prom? Nope, it's better it's your Holiday party... I don't know about you but whenever I get the opportunity to dress up and feel all girly, I take it... you know why? Because a hoodie sweatshirt doesn't make you feel like you've got  your own theme song...

For me, I honestly have to say I've usually left my hair to the last minute.. I mean I think we've all thought, "gosh, would be so great to have a hair & makeup crew to do all of this for me?" Well, that's one of the wonderful things I love about Dolce Vita Salon.. they give us women the opportunity to look our best for any occasion and this one happens to be a Holiday party... It was so much fun to get all glammed up and have Kimberly work her magic... Whether it's a classic Holiday party updo or a semi casual blowout, Dolce Vita Salon is the place for you... Don't miss the opportunity to treat yourself to this, because let's face it, we ladies can forget to take care of ourselves and before you know it you're freaking out in front of the mirror because your hair isn't doing what you saw on Pinterest... or maybe that's just me...

Right now Dolce Vita is offering a wonderful deal for an amazing hair treatment... It's by Kerastase (hair magic) Fusio-Dose... basically it's an at home treatment for your hair... whatever your need is, whether your hair is, fine, damaged or dry.. it's going to put amazing life back in your hair and you can do it at home!! Usually $75 but right now only $50!! Head on into the salon and tell them I sent you! Whatever your plans are this season, I hope you stop, take a breath, spoil yourself just a little and remember that you are worth it... It's ok to take a moment and feel oh so fancy...

*This post was sponsored however the opinions expressed is completely my own.

My Mascara Miracle...

My Mascara Miracle... by hchdesigns featuring Clinique

Wow.. I wonder if I even remember how to blog?  I just have been waiting for some free time to run up to me and smack me in the face.. well, that hasn't happened yet... But I just HAD to tell you about my best and most wonderful discovery of late... Younique 3D FIber Lash mascara.. I mean, you know you are in love when you can't wait to put it on in the morning... my girlfriend introduced this to me and well, what can I say I'm hooked for life... For those of you who've been with this blog for a while know that I've had this journey to find the perfect mascara.. and it all proved pointless.. a fact that my Sephora account will attest to...Until, I tried this mascara.. It's a miracle... A Christmas miracle.. something similar that would be shown on the Hallmark channel.. but I digress...
I honestly didn't think it was possible to have gorgeous lashes and wash it off at the end of the day... I also didn't think it was possible that I could keep a house plant alive longer than a month but who knew that's possible too! Except that I'm pretty sure I killed on of them with miracle grow..leave it to me to kill a plant with Miracle Grow... But anyways, I'm not talking about plants...
So true story, I've tried ALL of those mascaras.. and not one of them even can hold a candle to my amazing 3D mascara... so what do I suggest you do with this info? Get yourself some amazing lashes for Christmas! Your welcome in advance...

*This is not a sponsored post, however I do make a commission on any sale. 

Younique 3D Fiber Lash Giveaway! (Closed)

A wise person once said, aka I read this on Pinterest... "if someone tells you that your lashes are too big, stop talking to them.. you don't need that kind of negativity in your life..." Word, wise person on Pinterest... word...

Well, now I know what all the hub bub is all about... Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes you know it, it's everywhere on the internets... ooh la la... I'm in love... It does exactly everything it says it does, lengthens, stays on all day (water resistant) & is a dream to wash off not to mention it's cruelty free, naturally based and environmentally friendly sourced.... I mean it's where all my mascara dreams come true.... Simply apply the transferring gel like mascara, then the fibers, then the gel again and watch those lashes grow! Eat your heart out Dolly Parton... it's just like that...See this video!

I'm hosting a giveaway with Janna Weisbrod a presenter with Younique and she's generously giving away to one lucky reader their very own Younique 3D Fiber Lashes!!!!

Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes (value of $29)

With my endless hunt to find the perfect mascara I had a few trust issues, (puts jean shopping to shame)... So when my friend Janna emailed me about this mascara, I was skeptical it's got to be too good to be true... well folks I've been using it everyday for a week now and it's made a believer out of me! See this selfie for proof! It's like the Disneyland of mascara... And now you can can believe in the magic too.... I promise you'll love it!

This giveaway is only open to US & Canada residents... The winner will be drawn at random and announced on Wednesday 9/10!  Good luck! Enter below...

*This was a sponsored post however all the opinions are completely mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Summer Beauty Routine...

Summer Beauty Routine... by hchdesigns featuring a liquid eyeliner

Ah the blissful season of summer... This time of year I'm all about simple, I prefer bare shoulders and sundresses. Top knots & shell earrings.. I get in touch with my inner boho...  And my makeup routine is no exception.. Since my Irish roots are pretty dominant I do freckle and get a nice little summer glow,
so in summer I keep my makeup very simple and naturalish... Here's my routine,
Face:
I start with a clean moisturized face, I apply my Maybelline Fit Me concealer...Which is amazing for covering my dark circles or ahem.. any thing else I want covered on my face... blend it in..
Then the Wet n Wild bronzer all over my face.. yes, that's a bronzer.. in Reserve Your Cabana.. it's kinda like a mineral veil and this time of year that's all I need.. this also can be used as a highlighter and only $4!
I do the most awesome, duck face, come on ladies we all do it... and BRONZE those cheekbones! I'm in LOVE with Tarte's Park Avenue Princess! It's glorious and they also offer a matte version if that's your thing.

Eyes:
Tarte, you really are a lifesaver... after searching and I mean SEARCHING for a primer that will actually keep my eye makeup in place.. I found it.. Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless, total lifesaver..  I apply a tiny amount on my eyelid.. Hello eye makeup that lasts the whole day!
Next I apply the best eyeliner ever, Eyedo by Alexa Chung for Eyeko,  I've tried many many different products for eyeliner and this one is by far my favorite! Stays put but can be washed off! Why eyeliner next you ask? Because, I don't want my eyeliner tip to get clogged with eye shadow, making it dry out too quickly.
I apply a little of the Wet n Wild shadow on the lid (seriously the best), and since my liner is dry it doesn't effect it at all! Then my favorite trick for a beautiful summer glow is to use my Tarte bronzer as the crease shadow and blend!
Last is mascara,  I'm super excited to talk about this because I have this issue of mascara falling, like it's not attractive and after only 2 hours.. however this mascara Black Magic by Eyeko, stays put! Yet you can wash it off.. I mean really? Is this for real? Yes.. yes it is... I thrilled with it and I'm never letting it go..
And that's it! Yeah it's a lot when I type it out but honestly it takes me no longer than 15 minutes.. I hope you enjoy and happy summer!

Beauty On A Budget...

Sephora is so sneaky, kind like Target in that way.. they suck you in with their awesome selection and the amazing return policy.. here I was just loading up my pretend shopping cart with no intention of buying.. I do this sometimes, it helps when I feel like shopping but cant spend the dollaaas.... So anyways here I was minding my own business and they kindly decide to email me and say "hey looks like you forgot a few things in your shopping cart!"... No kidding, that was on purpose.. you are expensive, lovely and I need to just say no, must be strong... However even though my shopping spending spree has been on a diet lately, a girl must still have her mascara... I thought I would share some of my beauty favorites.. which, all of them come from Walmart... hahah.. whatever I'm over it and I'm saving money... totally grownup of you Hope... 

Mascara- Maybelline's The Falsies Volume Express (waterproof) gosh.. love this stuff.. totally provides tons of volume and length and will not come off with tears...  a little tip, if you have regular raccoon eyes like I do.. switch to a waterproof mascara! It stays on much better and then if the spontaneous pool party should happen you are prepared... #winning

Eyeshadow-Wet n Wild Eyeshadow Trio... I have to admit, I'm a little picky when it comes to eye shadow.. Ever since using brands like Urban Decay & Arbonne, I want my all shadows to stay on and be really pigmented... I heard about this eye shadow trio and for like $3! I'm sold!! So creamy and pigmented! I use this one every single day... I even mix it with my Naked 2 ... You cannot tell which one is $50 bucks & which one is $3... they have many other colors too which I'm thrilled to try! This color is called "Walking On Eggshells", perfect for everyday...

Eyelid Primer- Maybelline's Color Tattoo "Barely Branded"... this guy is the bomb dot com.. I've mentioned before that I have oily eyelids, which is ridiculous since the rest of my face is dry (eye roll).. I use this on top of Urban Decay's Primer Potion,  these two combined really helps my shadow to stay put.. or if I'm busy I skip shadow and just use this! Totally hooked!!

Concealer- Maybelline Fit Me Concealer... LOVE LOVE LOVE!! I've used plenty of concealers in my day... geez, that makes me sound so old... and truly this one is my favorite.. I discovered this by other bloggers & YouTube vloggers.. so I gave it a try, wowza! It's incredible.. doesn't crease.. hallelujah! Covers the dreaded sleepy/baggy eyes perfectly! Since it's a concealer, it's a little more sheer than a foundation but I feel it does that job perfectly and if it's not enough for you, it's buildable.. Try it you won't be sorry!

I'm not sure what it is about drugstore beauty that gets me giddy but I'm lovin what I found.. and I hope you enjoy them too! Do you have any drugstore beauty finds that you would like to share? I'm all ears!

Champagne Thursday!!! On Tuesday...

photo source... French By Design Blog.

I realize it's been like a hundred years since I've blogged.. so sorry.. honestly real life doesn't understand that I've needed to get a blog post up for like ever... if "real life" was a friend.. I'd stop taking her calls instantly, she's so needy.... In other news.. I felt like it was HIGH TIME for a Champagne Thursday post! Yes, I know it's not Thursday... and no I do not care.. Thursday may come twice this week but it's the price I'm willing to pay...

•  Got to style my friend Trish who's made an amazing journey overcoming health issues and an eating disorder. Where she is now healthy, with a fantastic body image and that girl has muscles I only dream of..... It's a great day when I'm picking out styles that says, "here lets show off those muscles!" She is such an inspiration... See the Pinterest/inspiration board here of what I chose for Trish...

• Someone left homemade/still warm chocolate chip cookies on our doorstep addressed to us and note saying..."you guys are amazing"... gosh... no, THAT was amazing... I may or may not have had cookies for breakfast the next day... I regret NOTHING!!!

• Ordered these amazing sandals! Can you say excuse for a pedicure? I'm basically checking the tracking number like I'm obsessed, which I totally am...

• Found this amazing Wet 'n' Wild eye shadow at Walmart.. I'm in love... nothing like headed to the store for more toilet paper and walking out with things that wasn't on the list... 

• Had a fantastic brunch with a local stylist, Style By Malia here in Sonoma County... I tell ya, good things happen over Eggs Benedict & coffee...

• I have managed to keep 5 houseplants alive!!! Yup you heard me.. ALIVE... I feel so grownup... now if I could just manage to keep up the with house... baby steps... 

Cheers to all the tiny victories, special moments, somewhat mundane things and amazingly HUGE things.. Because honestly, there is always something to celebrate... even if it is just finding the best $3 eye shadow at Walmart...

DIY: Vanilla Brown Sugar Scrub

Vanilla Brown Sugar Scrub by hchdesigns on Polyvore

While the Midwest & East Coast is getting winter's version of PMS... Us here in California are experiencing a drought... which you know what that means.. dry dry dry... my skin is normally dry however I've lived most of my life in humid/snowy weather conditions so I didn't notice too much... Enter moving to California 5 years ago.. all of a sudden my face & hair are dry... like Sahara dry.. I've tried scrubs, I've tried lotions & conditioners... but nothing really has helped... until.... drum roll please.... I remembered that coconut oil was really good for the skin! I watched a YouTube video of Jaclyn Hill (love her) using sugar as a natural exfoliant and she loves it! The idea was planted...  I really wish I could take credit for this genius however I cannot.. It's a mixture of my YouTube makeup video addiction, Pinterest  & my mom always being right... but I digress....
Here's how to make it...*note* this is a basic recipe that I tweaked you can find many different options in the land of Pinterest.. here's one that I used for inspiration...

• Melt 1 Cup of Coconut oil (not hot , just melted/soft).. it doesn't take very long.. 45 seconds or so... *tip* it's way easier to measure once it's melted.. it can re-harden whatever you don't use... I just put the jar in the microwave (minus the lid)... 
• Measure out 2 cups of Brown Sugar, it's better if it's a lighter brown but really any kind will do...
• Add 1 teaspoon of Vanilla.. I found a recipe that said 1/2 tsp and honestly it wasn't enough for me but really this is just for smell... nothing else... so use your best judgement... 
• Mix until all the ingredients look like it's mixed.. obviously there's some serious science behind this.. and put into a pint size mason jar or Tupperware for storage... 

That's it friends... but beware, it tastes amazing.. like when you make chocolate chip cookies amazing.. the cool thing is when you scrub your face and it gets on your lips, it's delicious and safe to eat... I said to my husband that my skincare was soo tasty and I could just eat it out of the jar.. I didn't, don't worry.. to which he responded " that sounds a little desperate"... yes honey, yes it is... 

This can be used for the face & body...I wash my face, like usual then I use this scrub... it is incredible and the oil removes all that pesky waterproof eye makeup and my face is like breathing a sigh of relief and softly saying "thank you".... Another amazing option, legs!!! Don't be afraid to shave with it!! It's heavenly, the warm water of the shower melts the oil just enough and the sugar scrubs all the old skin... not to mention you'll end up smelling like a cookie.. Score one for the home team.

Skincare Routine & Must Haves!

Skincare routine.... by hchdesigns featuring tarte

Philosophy facial cleanser / Tarte bath body product / The Body Shop bath body product / Beauty product / Beauty product, $48 / Eos beauty product

Well it's officially winter and my skin knows it! I have dry skin in general but this winter with the lack of rain.. well it's like the Sahara... I thought I would share with you my absolute favorite skincare products & routine..  For my skin I need moisture like alot of it.. and I need to exfoliate regularly...  Here is my routine.. which mainly happens at night..

1- Wash face with Philosophy Purity facial cleanser.. I like this because it's a basic no nonsense cleanser without all that crap in it..

2-Scrub face with Saint Ives Apricot Scrub.. I adore this stuff.. been using like since forever.. I can't remember maybe 15 or 16? Seriously long time.. I love it because it clears up my skin nicely and exfoliates... in the summertime, I don't exfoliate this often, more like every other day... however this is a new step for me..hello getting older.. so who knows this summer could be different..

Then by this point my ultra staying power eyeliner and waterproof mascara has bled like crazy and I look like something from a scary movie. no lie..

3- With a cotton ball I remove the excess eye makeup with The Body Shop's beautifying oil.. it's like a dry oil, smells amazing.. and seriously gets off everything.. (it's pretty much amazing for anything need moisture, legs, arms, hair).. and it smells like the beach...ahh.. I find that this is great for around the eye area since its a gentle oil...

4- I then moisturize my entire face (including lips) with Egyptian Magic.. this stuff is amazing.. its really thick so I don't recommend using this during the day.. it's perfect for a night cream.. only it's not a cream it's more of the consistency of a lip balm... It has been seriously the best thing for my skin since drinking water.. honestly so amazing.. I put it on at night and wake up to beautiful soft skin... it's all natural and loved by Madonna, Kate Hudson & Rachel Zoe...

Lastly is my must haves... which I listed most of them in in my routine except Tarte's Maracuja Oil.. seriously amazing.. I've used their sample for a week (saving for the big bottle) and it did wonders for my skin! It's anti aging.. score... gives a dewy glow and is perfect mixing with your foundation for a little more moisture.. This is a great daytime oil to prep skin for foundation... also through the day I'll use EOS lip balm which is incredible.. I keep it in my purse... love the stuff.. if you haven't tried it then run to you local Target get sucked in to their amazing deals and then when your standing in line to purchase something fabulous, pick up EOS lip balm, they are always in the checkout aisle...

That's it! If you have any questions or comments I'd love to hear them!

What to Wear, Christmas Party: A little red lip...

A little red lip... by hchdesigns featuring a black dress

In this season on Christmas parties and endless fashion options... try a little red lip!  It's the perfect little pop of red to your look, a little black dress, gold accessories and a gorgeous white coat.. it's the perfect look that says I'm classic, don't underestimate me and I like to party...  This is almost the exact look I wore to a Christmas party this last Saturday night (except the bag & different white coat and earrings).. to where I had sincere plans and aspirations to get documented in an outfit post..rolling my eyes.. however, I did not get ready in time to catch the daylight... When did I become so high maintenance?

Holy green eyes batman...thanks Instagram for saving the day like you always do...

Here's my tip for wearing a bold lip color, if your doing a bold lip do a simple eye... You don't want your face competing for attention... bold lip = subdued eyes... want to make your eyes pop? Do a nude lip with a slight gloss....Normally I'm an eye girl and lips are usually very basic, but my look by itself wasn't super glam so to step it up I did a nice bold red lip... I'm wearing True Red- L'Oreal Colour Riche... Gorgeous color and great if your like me with fair skin and red tones in your hair... This Christmas don't be afraid to go bold... pair with classic pieces such as black, white & gold and believe me you won't be sorry... you might even get stuck under some mistletoe! 

What's in my makeup bag...

What's in my makeup bag... by hchdesigns featuring mac cosmetics makeup

What the what? I'm posting on the blog!! Geesh... I sincerely apologize for the lack of posts lately.. I swear I've thought about you often and almost everyday I wear something cute.. however you would never know because just like John Lennon said "life happens when your busy making other plans.." Boy aint that the truth! Busy busy busy... anyhoo... enough about that... I'm already boring myself...

There has been a trend running around the blogging world of taking a picture of what is in your bag/purse... Well I would love to join in on that trend however there really isn't anything too interesting about random scraps of paper and bobby pins...  Sooo.... I thought I would do a little twist on that and share about what is in my makeup bag!

So obviously I love Urban Decay.. I'm always amazed at the quality of their product.. but one brand that I love just as much is Arbonne.. similar to Avon or Mary Kay it is only available through a distributor... however it is 100% vegan and cruelty free! See their ingredient and product details here...
Now, I'm not saying I'm going all "granola" on you.. I can eat a good steak along with the best of them.. I just don't like to rub it on my face...  Great visual huh?
Also it doesn't hurt that their product is hands down some of the best I've tried.. and what I'm really excited about is their newest addition to their cosmetic line..

Is their It’s a Long Story™ Mascara!! I love it.. totally lengthening, stays on forever, no flaking, and yet washes off with complete ease..totally crushes the other competition...

So that's my makeup bag... what is missing you might ask? Skincare... Ugh.. here's where I need your help..
I've got a problem.. all of a sudden like out of nowhere my skin is wicked dry... like ridiculously dry... I'm used to "normal" amounts of dry skin sometimes but this is unreal...  I feel like I need a tub of face cream just to get by.. Does anyone else deal with this? Or do you have a favorite skincare product you swear by? I'd love to know!

Real Beauty...

I'm sure most of you by now has either heard of the video or even seen it... but I just watched it a couple of days ago... and wow how profound.... I think too many times we see ourselves to harshly or the words said to us as children ring in our hears..

I love this because it shows us, especially women to not judge ourselves too harshly or to start seeing ourselves in the light of all the wonderful things that make us to who we are....  Because if we only knew like deep inside how incredible we are.. we just might believe it!

Gifts for your Bestie...

Gifts for your Bestie... by hchdesigns featuring wide belts

Remember when you were like 8 and everyone in the class exchanged Valentines...yeah, that was awesome.. Let's do that again.... 

I love Valentines Day... I think it's wonderful that we have a day to celebrate the people we love and are thankful for... It's kinda like Thanksgiving only for people! Valentines Day is so fun for many reasons but also it is coming off the heels for Seth and I the "expensive" time of year! Between 2 birthdays in January, 2 birthdays in December... not to mention Christmas... eh.. well... let's just say Valentines Day is always on a budget! So I put together a little budget friendly gift guide perfect for any of your gal pals... and if I'm being honest, I want like all these...hint hint Seth..

1. Forever Red Triple Moisture Body Cream
2. Geo Fringe Necklace
3. Floral Lace Scarf
4. Arrow Waist Belt
5. Gold iPhone Case
6. Metallic Heart Cosmetic Bag
7. Presto Pink Nail Color
8. Pearl Bow Studs
9. Cherry On Top | gloss
10. Bejeweled Bib Necklace
11. Heart Studs
12. Bangles
13. Kiss Me | Tinted Gloss
14. Smith's Minted Rose Lip Balm

I've got my eye on 4, 2  & 14.... seriously I want them... the great thing is nothing on the list is over $20!

... Is it awkward that most of these come from Forever 21? nah... I shop at the store called Forever In Denial.. and I'm OK with it.... there I said it...

I think the thing I like most about Valentines Day is that the day can be anything you want it to be...and you can celebrate the people that make you feel like a superstar! 

This is a submission for IFB Project #82 Season of Love

Kiss & Tell....

Untitled #27 by hchdesigns featuring a lip stick

... my first kiss was in the baggage claim of Oakland airport with my husband Seth... (dated 2 years long distance)... true story.

Kiss those winter lips goodbye with my "Kiss & Tell"... wow, I said kiss a lot...
Here is what I do...

1.  Stay Hydrated!!! Drink at least 1 glass of water before bed and it will dramatically help those lips not to mention those bags under your eyes... 
2. This was a tip I learned from a very well known makeup artist... When you're brushing your teeth, brush your lips too! This helps exfoliate them and remove any dead skin! 
3. I use Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush lip shine for day... I have a few of these guys.. so fun! ...Or for night.. I use my very favorite Mac Cosmetics Cremesheen Glass... That stuff is the bomb!

That's it! Super high maintenance right? One of these days I'll venture off into the world of bright red lips ... I think it looks fabulous in the right setting... maybe with a little black dress?... What's something that you've been dying to try out in the world of beauty?

This post is submitted to IFB Project #81 What makes you totally kissable? & inspired by Avon's Totally Kissable Lipstick..