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July Birchbox Review | 2015

Birchbox was the first subscription service I ever signed up for and now it’s quite possibly my favorite! I just love receiving this adorable little box every month and seeing what’s inside. Some months are better than others, but I tend to get a ton of use out of the products. And even if it’s not my favorite product, it’s usually handy enough to use for my travels! Check out my July Birchbox review below and share what you think in the comments!

If you aren’t familiar with birchbox, it’s a $10/month subscription to monthly deliveries of beauty and skincare samples. And don’t forget… they offer boxes for both men and women! It’s truly a mini treat to yourself once a month and it’s a fabulous, inexpensive way to get introduced to new brands and products. As an added bonus, birchbox has an amazing rewards program. You get points for each monthly sample you review and each dollar you spend in their shop. 100 points= $10, and those points add up fast!

Check out my July Birchbox Review:

Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45+
COOLA® SPF 30 Organic Makeup Setting Spray
RUSK® Heatshift™ Re-Styling Cream
Harvey Prince Hello, Limited Edition
stila look at me liquid lipstick trio

I have gotten a ton of Dr. Jart+ products in my past birchboxes. Just last month, I got the Dr. Jart+ Dermaclear™ Micro Water that I love! This month I received the Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45+ and this product apparently does it all! It’s a primer, moisturizer, treatment serum and adds SPF 45+. At first glance I love the stuff. It goes on smooth and even without having to use too much. And the color is great! Unfortunately, I found it to leave my face a bit sticky and it never quite absorbed into my skin. Since I’m someone who wears very light coverage creams on a daily basis, I found it a bit heavy for everyday use.

Makeup setting spray is new to my box of beauty tools. I’ve used it a few times for big events, but I’ve never quite understood why I would need to add it to my beauty arsenal. Well now I do! Not only does this COOLA® SPF 30 Organic Makeup Setting Spray add a layer of SPF 30, it also makes my makeup smudge free! I have a 30 minute walk to work so the elements can be rough. Some days it’s windy and my eyes water, other days I’m just hot and sweaty! Somehow a simple spritz of this setting spray kept my eyeliner from running, it kept my eyeshadow in place and protected my skin from the intense sun rays! This product is a must for you girls on the go!

RUSK® Heatshift™ Re-Styling Cream is up next! This re-styling cream was basically made for me. I hate blow drying my hair and I always wait at least one day between shampoos. That’s where this dream cream comes in handy! For use on fresh hair, it’s great! It cut my blow drying time in half! And for one-day-old hair, I applied a little bit to my hair before curling and my hair lasted all day! I found it to hold much longer and better texture than my normal hairspray. Now I’m not sure how I’ve lived without it all these years!

Next up, I got a small sample of Harvey Prince Hello, Limited Edition . This perfume was inspired by the joy of waking up to a warm day with the sun shining and the flowers blooming. I mean that’s what summer is all about, right? The scent is an interesting mix of floral and citrus that literally perked me up when I sprayed it. There is something about smelling this fresh fragrance that energized me in the morning. It’s a great scent for a beautiful summer day.

Last, but not least, is the stila look at me liquid lipstick trio. I love getting lipsticks and lipglosses in my birchboxes, but this one is unlike any I’ve received in the past. This lipstick is on for the day, whether you like it or not! Good thing I like it!! I received the bright pink color, which is bold, matte and irresistible! The creamy texture glides on thick, but sets to a matte paint very quickly. And once it dries, this lipgloss won’t come off on your coffee cup or your man. And it’s easy to remove at the end of the night with makeup remover, no staining! I’m addicted to my sample and will be buying a few colors for backup!

And that’s a wrap for this month’s beauty samples! Have you heard of any of these brands or tried any of these products before? Tell me about them in the comments below!

Craving more beauty finds? Check out last month’s post, June Birchbox Review, or start getting your own birchbox delivered right to your door!

July Rocksbox Review | 2015

Would you love getting sparkly jewelry delivered to your doorstep? Yep, thought so! If you haven’t already, it’s time for you to check out Rocksbox! (Use the code chelseabff5 to get your first month free!!)

Returning a set of jewelry is always bittersweet, but I’m always excited to see what I get next from Rocksbox! Lately, I’ve been lucky enough to get a lot of new designers and styles in my boxes that I’ve never tried before and my July Rocksbox was no exception! I’ve been getting a ton of use out of every piece. Before I dig into the details, here’s what Rocksbox is all about…

How it works:

1. BECOME A SHINE INSIDER ($19/month)- Take the style survey and add items to your jewelry Wish List.

2. GET 3 PIECES TO WEAR ON LOAN- Each piece is hand-selected for you based on your style and specific requests. Wear your pieces as much as you want!

3. RETURN ANYTIME TO GET 3 NEW PIECES- Return your Rocksbox pieces anytime and as often as you like. Every set has 3 pieces of designer jewelry, worth an average of $200 per set.

Check out my July Rocksbox:

Melinda Maria Cece Triange Stud Earrings (retails at $68, member price is $54)– These three triangle spiked earrings are the perfect mix of edgy and dainty! I love the small sparkle that fills each triangle and the slight curve of the stacks that give an interesting spin to these long studs. These Melinda Maria studs are amazing quality and add an extra layer of sparkle to your everyday outfit.

Jules Smith Cage Arrow Bracelet in Gold (retails at $38, member price is $30)- although the silver is pictured to the left, I received the gold bracelet in my rocksbox. You all know I love a good arm stack and this dainty gold cuff perfectly complimented almost all the bracelets in my jewelry box. The gold color is soft. I love mixing it with darker golds, my other arrow cuffs and more! The color and sparkle make this cuff super versatile and easy to where!

Urban Gem Paisley Necklace (retails at $64, member price is $51)- Can a girl ever have too many statement necklaces? Never! This intricate, tonal necklace is unlike most in my collection. I tend to go for bright, multi-colored necklaces. So I found this soft, mint, beauty was a breath of fresh air! I tended to let it shine on it’s own by pairing it with a simple white or grey tee. It is a great way to dress up a casual outfit!

And that wraps it up for this month’s box! Are you like me and can’t get enough of Rocksbox? Try checking out last month’s set of jewelry, June RocksBox Review.

Still want more? Sounds like you are ready to get your own Rocksbox! Go to Rocksbox and use code chelseabff5 to get your first month FREE! Enjoy! And don’t forget to share your thoughts on my Rocksbox jewels in the comments below!

Cool Off in the Culotte Trend

Culottes seem to be sprinkling the outfits on my instagram feed and the pages of my favorite magazines lately. You know what that means right? The culotte trend has officially gone mainstream!

Culottes are quickly populating the racks of my favorite (affordable!) stores and I’m here to tell you… You need a pair for fall! Some of you might be thinking…. are they pants? is it a skirt? Well that’s my favorite thing about culottes, the versatility! They come in all sorts of fabrics, prints and colors.

Going casual? Perfect, they are loose, comfortable and can be paired with a tee and denim jacket. Or check out these Madewell culotte jeans. These were made for a fall day playing in the leaves.

Or maybe you have a wedding to go to? Instead of going the traditional dress route, try a culotte jumpsuit on for size. I picked out a few polished, strapless jumpsuits below that would look amazing with a statement necklace and heels. This is a sophisticated evening look that’s guaranteed to stand out at your next get together (in a good way)!

shop the culotte trend:

black culotte bandeau jumpsuit ($19) / white culotte strapless jumpsuit ($37) / green pleated culottes ($34) / soft navy culottes ($70) / printed culotte jumpsuit ($180) / black strapless culotte jumpsuit ($73) / white spot jacquard culottes ($34) / tropical print culottes ($41) / black pleated culottes ($15) / metallic drawstring culottes ($56) / culotte jeans ($128) / solid white culottes ($58)

Black Fringe and Bright Tassels

I love this amazing black fringed hem maxi I snagged on sale at Nordstrom. Unfortunately, it’s sold out, but I’ve found a close alternative I’ve listed below. This is seriously a perfect summer dress. The loose shape makes it super comfy to wear and the fringe hem gives this otherwise boring dress some drama!

Going for basic? You could easily wear this fringed maxi over a swimsuit to the pool or to the beach. But it’s so versatile! You could easily dress this look up by pairing this dress with a black leather jacket, wedges and gold accessories for a night out with the girls. Or like I chose today, you can keep it casual, but spice it up with a little color and fun. I paired this simple dress with colorful, bright accessories. I went for my go-to summer pieces stacking on more fringe, tassels, beads and neon colors!

I finished the look with this bright pink lip from stila. This stila liquid lipstick stays on all day and packs huge color! If you don’t have time to do your hair or makeup, just grab this lipstick before you run out the door. It can finish any look and immediately add some polish, perfect for a hot summer day!

shop my black fringe dress look:

fringe hem dress ($40) / bright tassel clutch- similar here ($68) and here ($25) / black sandals ($59) / long turquoise necklace ($125) / neon pink earrings ($28) / bracelets- etsy and nordstrom / sunglasses ($170)

Are you Ready? Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

Guess what girls, it’s that time of year again!… The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! The deals are out there to be had, so get shopping!

Some of the best deals I found are in shoes. I love these Sam Edelman leopard pumps ($90) and have had my eye on these Enzo Angiolini Ankle Strap Sandals ($64). Or you could be more practical and go for the Hunter Rain Boots ($170) or the Nike Frees ($82).

In the market for a new handbag or wallet? I am obsessed with this kate spade crossbody ($99) and this everyday bucket bag ($32). Maybe you need to stay organized? Choose this multi-compartment kate spade tote ($220) and pair it with this adorable kate spade bow wallet ($85).

Ready for some jewelry? I have been obsessed with this kate spade watch ($117) forever! Because I mean happy hour is the most important hour right? And this Kendra Scott cuff ($33) is versatile and goes with everything! Lastly, if you need some sparkle in your life (and who doesn’t?) check out these kate spade glitter studs ($25).

I pulled together all the items listed above, plus a few more from the sale in the slideshow below. With brands like kate spade, gorjana, sam edelmand, michael kors and more, it’s hard sale to pass up! Check them out and enjoy shopping the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

my favorites from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale:

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10 Summer Must Haves to get you through this summer

Summer always seems to just fly by! No matter where you live, everyone seems to be on the go. That’s why I pulled together these ten summer must haves that you need now to make your summer a breeze.

1- A comfy, wear-everywhere tank. I have the boyfriend tank below that I wear non-stop. The fit is perfect and it looks great with distressed denim.

2- A bandana. Bandanas are the hot new accessory and this bandana scarf will save you the trouble of rolling and knotting one. Throw it in your hair for a quick fix to a bad hair day!

3- Statement sunglasses. These round shades scream boho and give a nod to the seventies.

4- A tote. I am obsessed with this reversible tote. One- it’s reversible! Two- it fits a ton of stuff. Three- it has a handy attached pouch to keep your valuables (aka your lipstick).

5- Summer cardigan. Layers are key for those chilly summer bonfires! This patterned cardigan gives you coverage and warmth while keeping a summer look.

6- Hat. Perfect for covering up that pool hair that didn’t quite dry right. You will be glad you have this hat to cover up any bad hair days.

7- Boho top. I love having a go-to top that screams summer and this bell sleeved lace top does the trick. Did someone say coachella?

8- Boyfriend jeans. For those days you don’t have time to shave your legs? Never fear, your boyfriend jeans are here!

9- Denim cutoffs. Enough said… it’s summer!

10- Walk everywhere sandals. In the summer, I find myself walking my sandals into the ground! What better shoes to prance around town in than these lace-up sandals that go with everything?

shop my 10 summer must haves:

Boyfriend Tank ($16) / Bandana Scarf ($6) / Round Sunglasses ($18) / Reversible Tote ($48) / Patterned Cardigan ($18) / Straw Hat ($13) / Lace Top ($30) / Boyfriend Jeans ($33) / Denim Cutoffs ($18) / Lace-Up Sandals ($65)

Summer Pool Party Essentials | 2015

Happy July everyone! With the long holiday weekend approaching, I am planning on spending as much time as possible soaking up the sunshine! My ideal July is full of pool parties and fun in the sun!

I pulled together some serious must haves for throwing an awesome summer pool party! Check out this Waterproof Speaker and Radio that you can trust to keep your music loud and your iPod dry! And how about this adorable Soda Shaped Change Purse? No one will find my snack money in there! And lastly, how perfect is this giant Flamingo Pool Float? I could float around on it for days! Basically, for any pool party you need sunscreen, cute sunnies, a beach tote and games! Check out all my favorites below and have fun!

shop summer pool party essentials:

Inflatable Ball ($34) / Turkish Pestemal Towel ($34) / Blue Sunglasses ($38) / Soda Shaped Change Purse ($8) / Straw Hat ($15) / Sunscreen Spray ($16) / Patterned Headband ($7) / Ping Pong Set ($28) / Wet Bikini Storage Bag ($6) / Drink Cozy ($14) / Waterproof Speaker/Radio ($48) / Beach Tote ($45) / Birkenstock Slide Sandal ($30) / Underwater Camera ($21) / Flamingo Pool Float ($75)

June Rocksbox Review | 2015

I’ve had a subscription to Rocksbox for quite a while now. Not every box I’ve gotten has been perfect for me, but I’ve had a lot of fun trying out new designers and styles that are different from what I normally gravitate toward. My June Rocksbox had some highs and lows, but overall another great box! Before I dig into the deets, here’s what Rocksbox is all about…

How it works:

1. BECOME A SHINE INSIDER ($19/month)- Take the style survey and add items to your jewelry Wish List.

2. GET 3 PIECES TO WEAR ON LOAN- Each piece is hand-selected for you based on your style and specific requests. Wear your pieces as much as you want!

3. RETURN ANYTIME TO GET 3 NEW PIECES- Return your Rocksbox pieces anytime and as often as you like. Every set has 3 pieces of designer jewelry, worth an average of $200 per set.

Check out my June Rocksbox:

SLATE Spiked Out Necklace in Silver (retails at $82, member price is $65)– This spiked black necklace was by far my favorite piece this month! This necklace is unlike anything in my current jewelry collection. It has a pretty simple design, but the black color and spikes add a serious edgy look to this necklace. It takes any outfit to the next level, adding some intense bad girl vibes. I loved pairing it with girly, feminine outfits to harden up a soft sweet look.

Perry Street Adrianna Necklace (retails at $64, member price is $51)- I was a little confused by this necklace when I first saw it. Although it has a statement pendant, it’s on a long dainty chain making it awkward to style. I ended up pairing this piece with a white boyfriend tee. But I found the statement pendent to swing around a lot and looked too heavy to be on such a long chain. Overall I found this necklace to be a little awkward and only got the one use out of it.

Loren Hope Sophia Studs in Violet (retails at $34, member price is $29)- I love these studs! They are super simple and dainty. The bright violet color is great for any summer day! I found myself dressing them up with a cute white summer dress or dressing them down with jeans and a blouse. Either way, these bold studs add a punch to any summer look. And coming from Loren Hope, they are great quality and earrings I know will last!

And that wraps it up for this month’s box! Are you like me and can’t get enough of Rocksbox? Try checking out last month’s set of jewelry, May RocksBox Review.

Time to Get Cheeky| Summer Accessories 2015

Summertime is the best. Pools are open, kids are out of school and ice cream is in full stock! Summer is all about kicking back, relaxing and enjoying yourself. That should apply to your style too!

In the blissful months of summer, I find my style takes a break from reality. My clothes get brighter, my graphic tees get a sense of humor and I love to sprinkle cute food, like pineapples, ice cream, etc., into my wardrobe wherever possible! Accessories that make me smile are irresistible for me and I have been coming across so many lately! So I pulled together some of my favorite, cheeky accessories of 2015 below. My absolute favorites are the Mermaid Shell Crossbody, the Ice Cream Sunglasses and the Orange Juice Phone Case! How cute are they? I’m obsessed with all of them and would love to confuse someone at the supermarket with my purse! Who said fashion doesn’t have a sense of humor? Happy shopping!

shop cheeky summer accessories:

Fruit Sunglasses ($32) / Ice Cream Sunglasses ($32) / Daisy Crossbody ($48) / Banana Clutch ($28) / Lips Convertible Bag ($63) / Orange Juice Phone Case ($29) / Grapefruit Purse ($45) / Fish Coin Purse ($11) / Neon Dinosaur Clutch ($66) / Mermaid Shell Crossbody ($54) / Orange Fruit Clutch ($15) / Donut Coin Purse ($5) / Origami Boat Crossbody ($66) / Watermelon Clutch ($35)

Get in my Closet! | Lace Up Flats

Have you been dragging your feet (pun intended!) on buying some lace up flats? Whether it’s because of price, seasonality or pure laziness, you need to cut it out! This trend is EVERYWHERE lately and styles are selling out fast. For those of you ladies out there like me, price is super important on these trendy styles. But guess what.. I’ve got your back! You can always go to Barney’s and drop a few hundred dollars on a beautiful pair of shoes, but I’ve scoured the internet and gathered the best deals out there. And get excited! There are a few awesome looking, wallet friendly picks that are right on trend!

Can you believe all these lace up flats are $51 and under? These amazing steals are from ASOS, Topshop and even Kohl’s!

shop budget friendly lace up flats:

1. blue laced up flats ($51) / 2. snake lace ups flats ($51) / 3. black lace up flats ($45) / 4. leopard lace up flats ($45) / 5. snake skin lace ups ($45) / 6. red lace up flats ($45) / 7. gold heeled lace ups ($24) / 8. black lace up flats ($51) / 9. purple suede lace ups ($20)

Check out my July Birchbox Review:

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How it works:

Check out my July Rocksbox:

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shop the culotte trend:

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shop my black fringe dress look:

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my favorites from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale:

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shop my 10 summer must haves:

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shop summer pool party essentials:

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How it works:

Check out my June Rocksbox:

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shop cheeky summer accessories:

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shop budget friendly lace up flats:

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