Ombre Nails

We've all seen the ombre trend in hair for a while now, but have you seen ombre nails?  This trend is starting to pop up everywhere.  Celebrities such as Lauren Conrad have been seen rocking ombre nails.  There are a few ways to display your ombre nails.  You can take Lauren's approach and slowly fade colors nail by nail.  To do this, chose a color family such as blue or pink.  Paint the darkest color on your pinky finger and work your way nail by nail ending with the lightest color on your thumb (or you can start with your thumb and end with your pinky!).  Another way to wear create ombre nails is to fade the color from light to dark (or dark to light) on each nail.  I found a great tutorial here.  What do you think of this trend?  Would you rock ombre nails?

xoxo,
Jen

Ombre Nails by jennifer-frisk featuring a nail care

Nail care / Nail care / Nail treatment / HOW TO: Ombre Nails | SeeWantWear / HOW TO: Ombre Nails | SeeWantWear / HOW TO: Ombre Nails | SeeWantWear / HOW TO: Ombre Nails | SeeWantWear

Fishtail Braid

If you're looking to change up your everyday hairstyle, the fishtail braid is a great option.  Its a modern twist on the traditional braid.  Celebrities have recently been seen rocking this style on the red carpet.  Not sure how to achieve this style?  There's several tutorials online.  sheknows.com offers a simple step by step guide to get this look.  Try it out on your hair!

xoxo,
Jen

Step 1: Prepare

Brush out your hair so it's smooth and tangle-free. This will make it easier for you to braid. If you're going for a messier look, add some product to your hair first to give it some texture. Bumble and bumble's Styling Wax will give you a messy but sturdy hold.

Step 2: Braid

Note: For an easier hold, put your hair into a loose ponytail before you start fishtail braiding. It will help keep your hair together.

Separate all of your hair into two sections. Now take a smaller section from one side and add it to the other. Next, do the same with the opposite side and add a subsection of hair to the opposite side. Continue this until you see the fishtail pattern forming. Depending on how thick you want your braid to be, add smaller sections of hair for a tighter braid or thicker sections of hair for a loose braid.

Step 3: Secure

Once you've finished braiding as far down as you can, secure the braid with a clear plastic tie. To keep hair in place, add a spritz of hairspray to the entire braid. Try Living Proof Hold Firm Hairspray for a tight hold. For a fun look, add a bow or flower clip at the end.

Fishtail Braid by jennifer-frisk featuring hair accessories

Fishtail Braid Hairstyles for 2013 / Hair accessory / Creative Braid Hairstyles

How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Cleaning your makeup brushes is really important.  Just think of all the built up make up and bacteria that's sitting in your brushes day after day...GROSS.  I have to admit, I don't do it as often as I should.  It's recommended that you clean your brushes every 2 weeks.  Its really simple to do.  You can purchase brush cleaner at retailers such as MAC or Sephora, or you can use basic shampoo (the cheaper route!) that you already have at home.  I personally like to use baby shampoo because its gentle (and I just happen to have a LOT of it at my house).  Here's an easy step by step guide to cleaning your make up brushes:

You'll need:
1.  Dirty makeup brushes
2. A small dish or bowl
3.  Baby shampoo
4.  Towel

Directions:
1.  Take your brush and run in under lukewarm water.  Always hold the brush downwards.

2.  Add a small amount of shampoo into your dish.  Add a bit of water to create a soapy mixture.
3.  Swirl your brush around in the soapy mixture.

 

4.  Work the soapy mixture through your brush to ensure that you're cleaning all the make up off.
5.  Run the brush back under the lukewarm water until the water runs clear (instead of looking dirty and gross!)
6.  Pat the brush dry with your towel to ensure that all excess water is removed from the brush.
7.  Lay the brush flat on your towel.

8.  Once you're done washing all your brushes, roll the bottom of the towel inward to create an incline for your brushes.  This will allow your brushes to drain any extra water and properly dry.

9.  Let your brushes dry overnight.


xoxo,
Jen

Durgstore Haul

I absolutely love going to drugstores and wandering around aimlessly to discover new products.  Its even better when you go with a friend and learn about their favorite finds too.  I did a post a while ago (here) sharing my favorite drugstore gems.  Since then, I've discovered a few new products that I wanted to share.  I found some on my own, and others were recommendations from friends; which are now staples in my routine.  Enjoy!

xoxo, 
Jen

1.  L'OREAL Voluminous Mascara:  I'm constantly searching for the perfect mascara.  No matter what brand I try, I'm never overly thrilled with the results.  This mascara is the best I've found in a while.  It gave my lashes great length and volume.
2.  Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush:  This blush gives a great hint of color, with the moisture of a cream blush.
3.  Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes:  These things are fantastic!  They easily remove your makeup.  Since I travel a lot, they're perfect to keep in my suitcase, rather than bringing all of my face washes (yes I have several) for just 1 night away.
4.  Night of Olay:  During my last skin consultation (Facial), the esthetician complimented my skin and asked what my nighttime skin routine was.  She was shocked that I didn't use night cream.  I never really thought about using it, to be honest.  She recommended Olay products.  The only thing I knew about Olay was that my Grandma used it religiously everyday, and her skin was fantastic.  I've been using it every night for about a week now.  Stay tuned for the results :)
5.  EOS Lip Balm:  When my bestie came to visit, she used this cute egg shaped lip balm.  I loved the style of it, so she sent me one in a care package.  In addition to the cute look of the product, it really makes your lips smooth and tingly.
6.  Covergirl Liquiline Blast:  This is another friend recommendation.  I've been using the same MAC eyeliner for a while now.  I have to say, this drugstore brand is an exact replica!  It feels like a liquid liner, but goes on easy like a pencil (for those of us who haven't quite mastered the liquid liner).
7.  Maybelline Baby Lips:  I've seen this product advertised all over the place for a while now.  I finally decided to try it.  Its supposed to repair your lips over time.  I've been using it for about a week now.  It definitely makes my lips smooth when I apply it.  Stay tuned for the lasting effects.

Durgstore Haul by jennifer-frisk featuring a lip care

Maybelline / Face moisturizer / Neutrogena / Eos lip care / Maybelline Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm / Covergirl Liquiline Blast Eyeliner Pencil Black / L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Mascara

Summer Essentials

Check out my must have's to get through the dog days of summer:


Row 1:  Bright bikini, stylish shades, colored shorts, waterproof mascara
Row 2:  Bronzer, casual maxi dress, a great read, bright gloss, gold sandals
Row 3:  Neon nails, light scent, moisturizer with SPF, cream blush, staying hydrated


xoxo, Jen

Summer Essentials by jennifer-frisk featuring long dresses

Designers Remix long dress, $88 / Short shorts / Shimmi bandeau bikini / Flat sandals / Stella McCartney aviator sunglasses / CARGO makeup / Essie Nail Polish Poppy Razzi Collection 2012 - Bazooka —... / Buy CoverGirl LashBlast Waterproof Mascara, Black 830 Online at...

Drugstore Gems

I love roaming the aisles of a drugstore.  There's so many great products ranging from beauty to food to gift cards.  You name it and you can probably find it at your local drugstore.  My favorite part is finding great health and beauty products at an affordable price.  Over the years, I've spent a pretty penny on all types of beauty products.  However, I've found that many of my go-to items are found at the drugstore.  Here are my top 10 drugstore beauty finds.

xoxo, Jen

1.  Crest 3D White:  I use this whitening rise every day to keep my smile white and bright.  It really works!  Pair it with 3D White toothpaste for maximum results.

2.  St. Ives Apricot Scrub:  I exfoliate my skin 2-3 times a week (which is probably more than is recommended).  I can't help myself!  I love how this product leaves my skin feeling smooth and renewed.  

3.  Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner:  This product removes any remaining dirt and oil from your face.  It leaves your skin feeling cool and fresh.

4.  Johnson's Baby Lotion:  I have to admit, I've tried what seems like hundreds of lotions.  Johnson's baby lotion is by far my favorite.  I like the one with shea and cocoa butter.  It really moisturizes your skin and lasts all day.

5.  Moroccan Oil:  This is a newer find for me.  I've heard about it for a while and finally gave it a try.  Now, I'm addicted.  My hair is often dry due to all the products and heat I apply to it daily.  I use this product once a week for hair that is left silky and smooth.

6.  Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo:  This product is an oldie but goody.  I first started using this in middle school when I would load my hair with hair spray (you know you did it too.  bangs.)  This removes all the built up residue in your hair from the numerous products (styling, shampoo, etc) you use.  My hair always feels clean and refreshed after I use this product (once a week).

7.  Rimmel Lasting Finish Base and Top Coat:  I have to give my mom credit for this one.  She introduced me to this product a few months ago and now I'm hooked.  This really makes your manicure last. I'll actually add it to my week old manicure to get added time out of it.  It adds shine to your nails and really helps against chips.

8.  Burt's Bees Lemon Cuticle Cream:  A friend introduced me to this product years ago and its become a staple in my cabinet.  Its light, smells great, and really strengthens and protects your cuticles.  Its quick and easy to apply.

9.  Covergirl Lashblast 24 Hour Mascara:  I've spent more than I'd like to admit trying to find the perfect mascara.  I've tried endless kinds of "designer mascaras" only to be disappointed.  In the end, I always go back to the basics; Covergirl.  This mascara is great for volume and definition.  I line my lids with my favorite eyeliner, use an eyelash curler and apply 2-3 coats of this mascara for a bold look.  Its amazing and lasts all day!

10.  Lip Smacker- Strawberry:  I know, I know, this is a product that a 10 year old uses too.  I can't help myself.  I love it!  I often feel embarrassed when I whip this chap stick out and apply it, but its amazing.  It moisturizes your lips and adds just the right amount of shine.  And let's be honest, the flavor/scent is an added bonus.  I'm partial to the strawberry flavor, but I'm sure they're all equally as wonderful.