Makeup Tips

As requested by the lovely Rebecca Gibbs A.K.A. Rxbxcca, this post is all about makeup tips. Whether you've been into makeup since you had your princess eyeshadow kit at age 6 or you have absolutely no clue what you are doing, there is always something new to learn about makeup. That is part of why I love it. The products and styles are constantly changing so there are always new things to try out. Although I don't wear a whole face of makeup everyday, I do love trying new products and trying out different looks for different occasions. Here are some tips i've found helpful over the years:
1. Applying a little white eyeliner to the inner corner of your eyes brightens up your whole face and makes you look more awake.

2. Adding a few drops of eyedrops to old mascara that is starting to clump will make it like new. You still should replace your mascara every few months but if you find it clumping or want to salvage a high end mascara this trick does wonders!


3. Want matte lipstick that lasts all day? After applying your lipstick, gently hold a tissue over your lips and brush on some powder.

4. Makeup, much like any other product, doesn't last forever. But how do you know when to get rid of what products? Mascara should be replaced every 3 to 4 months; eyeshadow, lipstick, and blush last 12 to 18 months; foundation usually last for about a year; and eyeliner can last up to 2 years. Some of you may have an amazing memory, but personally I can't even remember what I had for dinner last night ;) so whenever I buy a new product I sharpie on or use my label-maker to date when I need to get rid of that particular product, this way I can make sure all of my makeup is fresh.

5. Much like a curling iron for your hair, which won't work well without heat, the best way to get a good curl in your lashes, it helps to heat up your lash curler. Hold your lash curler (for 15 to 20 seconds) up to a blow dryer on high heat and viola, long lasting eyelash curls.


Comment some of your makeup tips! Thanks for reading and let me know if these were helpful so I can add more! :)
Xoxo
- E  http://redtoesandlacebows.blogspot.com/

Healthy Snack Ideas

Healthy Snacks:

PB Chocolate Bananas





This is such a great dessert substitute for cookies or a bowl of ice cream and it's so easy to make! This is pretty self explanatory to make. Just make some PB and banana sandwiches, cover them in melted chocolate, freeze and eat!






Yogurt Parfait

One of my new health food finds are chia seeds, which are super good for you. (I found mine at Trader Joe's, but you can get them at most grocery or health food stores.)
Chia seeds are small and aren't super flavorful so I have been trying a different few ways to eat them without really realizing that I was! My favorite is to put them in a yogurt parfait. Obviously you can add any toppings you'd like but I usually put fresh fruit and granola on my yogurt. I either mix the granola with the seeds before I sprinkle it on top or I just stir all the ingredients together. (The granola helps hide the seed texture if you don't like that sort of thing).








Air-Popped Popcorn

This is one of my favorite snacks and isn't too bad for as long as you don't load on butter and salt! You can buy a Popcorn Popper online for around $20 or if you have a farmer's market or health food store near you they might sell popcorn on the cob (which you can microwave in a brown bag). Then just add whatever toppings you'd like or leave it plain! If you're in the mood for something sweeter, sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on top.

Crackers and Laughing Cow Cheese 

These aren't exactly fat free but they are delicious and much better for you then a bag of greasy potato chips! Plus they are only 50 calories! It is a super quick and easy snack, perfect for school or work lunches.



Thanks so much for reading! Leave comments on your favorite healthy snacks! :)

Staple Clothing Items for Every Girl's Closet

Every girl's closet is different. Looking through a closet, you can tell a lot about its owner. Not just size or age but personality and style. Although everyone has different taste, there are a few staple items every girl should have in her closet.

1. A Little Black Dress - In my opinion, this was one of Coco Chanel's best works. The "Little Black Dress" looks good on every woman and has lived on since the 1920s.

"One is never underdressed
with a little black dress."
 - Karl Lagerfeld

2. A Blazer - This can be incorporated into most outfits. Worn with jeans and a white tee for a more casual look or dressed up for a more professional look.

3. Skinny Jeans - This goes with just about everything. No explanation needed.

4. White T-shirt - A simple tee can be dressed up or down and goes with everything.

 

5. White Button-Down - This adds a crisp, fresh look perfect for a professional looking outfit.

6. Pencil Skirt - Just like a blazer or a white-button down this is an essential piece for a clean sophisticated look.

  

7. Simple Cardigan - This is just another obvious necessity. 

8. Leather Jacket - The perfect go-to for an edgy look.

9. Jean Jacket 

10. Cable-Knit Sweater - Warm, cozy, and perfect for those colder months.

Please comment letting me know if you want me to do a 'Staple Accessories' post. 

Thanks for reading! 

Fitness

In all honesty my fitness "routine" isn't such a "routine". Life gets busy as I'm sure you all understand, so I workout when I can. Sometimes this means a few times a week, but sometimes it means that I don't get around to it at all one week. It's not like working out is the only time I get exercise either; I'm constantly walking and climbing stairs during my day. But I have been trying to stabilize and better my workout routine. So, I guess this is an attempt to inspire myself and hopefully others, whether you're looking to improve your health or get beach-ready.


If you're super busy or just don't have the money to spend on a gym membership, there are tons of at-home workouts that won't cost a penny.
I find a ton of workouts and inspiration on Pintrest. Follow my fitness board if you're intrested: https://www.pinterest.com/eatalbot/fitness/
Another great place to find some workouts is YouTube. There are a ton of great channels for at home workouts. Some of my favorites are...
Blogilates - They have EVERYTHING. There are over 300 videos! Are there even 300 parts of your body you can work out?!?!
Follow or comment if you want me to do more fitness posts.

What are your favorite blogs or videos for fitness? Please leave comments, tips, or questions down below! Thanks for reading!

Random Favorites

Magazines:
People Style Watch
Seventeen
Vogue

Movies I want to See:

The Age of Adaline

The Longest Ride

22 Jump Street

Movies & TV Shows:

The Duff

Pretty Little Liars

Vampire Diaries

Friends

YouTubers: 

MayBaby

StilaBabe09

JuicyStar07 and AllThatGlitters21

Lauren Curtis

Stores:
TjMaxx
Forever 21
American Eagle
Target


New Favorite Foods:
Caramel Rice Cakes 
Chia Seeds
Chex Mix (Cheddar)
Luna Bars (Chocolate Peppermint Stick)

Blogs:

Dreaming of Gold
(www.dreamingofgold.com)

(www.iheartyoucoffee.com)

Songs:
My workout playlist/up-beat songs:
Sugar by Maroon 5
Chains by Nick Jonas
Gold Digger by Kanye West
Stronger Kanye West
Sail by Awolnation
Work by Iggy Azalea 
I Wish by Cher Lloyd
Small Town Throwdown by Brantley Gilbert
Hell on Heels by the Pistol Annies
Only Prettier by Miranda Lambert
Sad/ Mellow Songs:
I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz 
Teardrops on my Guitar by Taylor Swift
White Horse by Taylor Swift
Say Something (I'm Giving up on You) by A Great Big World
Cowboy Take Me Away by the Dixie Chicks
Over You by Miranda Lambert
Amnesia By 5SOS

What are your favorites? Let me know in the comments or if you think of any additional categories I should add next time.

Thanks for reading!!!!

My Top 10 Favorite (and affordable) Beauty Products

My whole life I have loved makeup. Not because it makes you 'look better', but because it has always been something for me to explore. There are always new products, techniques, colors, and looks to try. I was just amazed at how some black goop in a tube could make your eyes pop, or how a little bit of powder on your cheeks could make your whole face glow. Not only was it fun to experiment with, but I loved how I felt when I put it on. It really isn't all about how the makeup makes you look, but how it makes you feel. For me makeup is more than just a morning ritual that I feel like I have to do. It became a hobby. Something I enjoy, practice, and take pride in. It isn't always something I do solely for myself. Showing other people that they ARE beautiful always brings a smile to their face. The way many people view themselves is far less attractive than they really are. Sometimes, they just need that little boost to become confident and be proud of who they are.The past few years I have been trying out new brands, shades, and types of products. As you would with anything, I found some I liked and some I didn't. Here are some of my top favorite products (in no particular order).
*Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored. I am not being paid or asked  to promote products. All opinions are my own. :)

Make-up Products:

1. Rimmel London Natural Bronzer - $4.28 at Walmart (also found at Ulta, Target, CVS, and Walgreens)
This bronzer and gives a warm sheer summer glow without hurting your wallet.
2. Benefit They're Real! Mascara - $24 at Sephora (also found at Ulta) 
This Mascara is on the pricey side but it's perfect if you're looking for a wetter, non clump mascara that darkens and lengthens.
3. NYX Eye-Brow Push-Up Bra - Lift & Draw - $9.99 at Ulta (also found at local drugstores, and Target) 
This double sided eyebrow pencil makes it super easy to fill in your brows without accidentally looking like you colored them in with sharpie and the highlighter gives your brows a shaped looked while brightening your eyes.
4. Maybelline New York The Mega Plush Volum' Express Mascara - $5.99 at Target (also found at Ulta, Target, CVS, and Walgreens)
This is great if you're looking for a volumizing mascara on a budget.
5. Revlon Illuminance Creme Shadow in the shade "710 - Not Just Nudes" - $5.99 at Target (also found at Ulta, Target, CVS, and Walgreens)
This is by far the easiest and quickest eyeshadow I've ever used. Simply dab some on your finger and swipe across your eyelid for a natural look. 
6. Maybelline Fit Me Shine Free Foundation Stick - $5.99 at Target (also found at Ulta, Target, CVS, and Walgreens)
This foundation stick is completely shine free and blends perfectly into my skin tone. I love how quick and on the go it is. I can just throw it in my bag without needing to bring a brush. 
7. Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer - $5.59 at Target (also found at Ulta, Target, CVS, and Walgreens) 
In all honesty this is one of the few brands of concealers that I've owned, but it is definitely my go-to. Again, the main thing I love about the product is that you don't need a brush and it's quick and easy to apply. 
8. Ulta Automatic Eyeliner in the shade 'Lace'(also comes in over 20 other colors) - $8.00 at Ulta 
The reason I love this liner is because it glides on smooth and is very easy to blend. I use the white shade on the inner corners of my eye or on my waterline to brighten my eyes.
9. Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor - $7.49 at Ulta (also found at Target, CVS, and Walgreens)
10. Kyrolan Illusion Highlighter in the shade 'Cashmere' - $18.95
This is a bit pricy for its size (4.5 grams) but a little goes a long way. I loved how smooth it felt and the sheen champagne color is gorgeous. This shade works for most skin tones since it can be used as a highlight or a lowlight depending on the shade of your skin. 

Thanks for reading! Please leave comments or email me at any time (eatalbot13@gmail.com)! 

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Lately I've been saving up for a car which means no more "splurging" on a dress that I only wore once. I've developed a system that I use whenever I shop for non-necessities. Obviously I am no spending expert but it has save me quite a few bucks so I figured I'd share.

My mental checklist...
Do I love it? How often will I use it? Will I still wear it in a month? In a year? Or is it just a trend that I'll end up throwing out after wearing it once? 

Does it fit? This may sound like a stupid question but many people buy clothes because they like them or because it's a good deal. But if you're clothes don't truly fit you then you'll probably end up not reaching for that piece as often, therefore wasting money. (Something I am definitely guilty of!) Lastly, whenever I find an item I like, without looking at the price (which sometimes can't be avoided) I set myself a price limit. For example, I see a cute pair of flats in my size, I decide that if they are less than $30 will buy them. This keeps me from overspending on things I don't need.
Please leave comments and thanks for reading! :)

Have any post ideas or questions? Comment or e-mail me at eatalbot13@gmail.com

Rainy Days, Blogs, and Fuzzy Socks

After months of snow, a day of anything but snow actually brings a smile to my face (even if it means rain). As long as I can stay inside in my fuzzy socks and don't have to shovel. I thought I would use this dreary Saturday to post my first blog sharing a little bit about me. I am sixteen years old and like most people my age I am trying to find my place in this world. Don't get me wrong I'm quite happy in this little town but I've been desperately trying to figure out what I am going to do with my life. From the time I could talk to about age 13 I was dead set on gearing my career towards cosmetology but lately, surrounded by talk of college and my supposed "future", I've reconsidered. I have had an interest in fashion my whole life, even if that meant wearing a tutu on my head and socks on my hands at age 3. So of course part of me wants to pursue my dream. But the other half of me wants to be practical and find a career path that I can find a job in anywhere, like teaching early education. Who knows where I'll be in 10 years, but for now my biggest goal is getting through the year. 

Hopefully, this blog will help me sort out my thoughts even if I end up being the only reader. ;) 

I would love to read any questions, comments, suggestions, or constructive criticism you have. Thank you so much for reading!

- E