Prints and Neons

Hi Dolls!!

Hope you all had an amazing weekend! Unfortunately, they sure do go by fast.

Trying to stay positive for the week ahead, but Michigan has some very cold temps predicted for the week. This winter has been brutal to us. So to get my mind off the cold, I have been working hard putting pieces together for you from the store and wracking my brain with creativity.

I also had a little fun in my spring/summer closet pulling pieces to give you gals some fun outfit ideas for spring fashion.

So what about a little colorful fashion neon's and prints to get one in the mood for SPRING!

I have never been more excited for a fashion season than this spring/summer 2014. I am not sure if that has to do with my store opening soon, or if the styles are just that fun! I am pretty sure it's a little of both :)

My favorite part about this spring/summer fashion season ahead is the bright colors, prints, statement accessories, and risk taking with mixing and matching prints and colors. I put together three outfits for you all from my very own closet that will surely make a statement this spring.

They are simple and FUN!

Outfit #1

Who doesn't love an orange and blue combination? Am I right?! Orange is one of my favorite colors and it always makes me smile.  I paired a great pair of Express skinny jeans in an indigo blue with a orange baggy t-shirt. What makes this outfit is this fabulous pair of wedges bought here. They are a steal at 35$. And comfy too!!

I layered a statement orange necklace from The Limited with a blue and gold chain-like necklace from Meijer. My friend Michael Kors has the best watches so my wrist will always stay true to him.

 Throw on some gold bangles and knuckle rings and you have yourself an outfit for the day/night!

Outfit #2

I am pretty obsessed with polka dots right now and this 3/4 length top is gorg. I paired it with a great pair of pastel yellow skinny jeans from Love Culture. Here I went out on a little limb wearing two different patterns. This wedge bought here can be paired with more than you think. Just take a risk ladies! Don't be afraid :)

I also gave you the option to pair this outfit with a beautiful nude sandal.

Loving this necklace as much as I am? This gorgeous statement necklace is from Ginny Blues boutique. I couldn't resist keeping one for myself!! Please visit our site here and sign up for our newsletter to stay on trend with what's happening with store opening details, sales, and our latest coupons.

Outfit #3

Again, loving prints right now and who can resist a great pair of camo's?!  The neon has sucked me in for spring as well. If your not feeling the neon, you can always go with a white or grey T. I found these camo pants at a neighborhood boutique in Michigan. Similar pair found here. Wedge sneakers are huge for this spring. I can't resist a little bedazzle, so I had to buy these little beauties.
 Gorgeous pair here for $20!

So what are your favorite trends for the spring/summer?

IT CAN'T GET HERE SOON ENOUGH!!

I will be giving away a Ginny Blues boutique gift card and statement T away very soon. 

Don't forget to follow Ginny Blues!

twitter @ginnybfashion

instagram @ginnybfashion

facebook Ginny Blues Boutique

AND go to http://ginnyblues.com and sign up for our newsletter.

Hope you dolls have a fabulous week!!

<3

Friday's Fearless Fashion

Hi Dolls! :)

HAPPY FRIDAY! And, Happy RED Day!

I am a BIG TGIF fan because Friday's are my day off :) I know, it's pretty nice, I must say.

So Valentine's day is next weekend! Geesh, February is flying by. I am fine with that; sooner we can get rid of this cold weather.

So what do you all do for the Valentine's holiday? Usually my hubby spoils me with a home cooked surf and turf dinner or we go out for a really nice dinner and drinks downtown. Not sure what we are up to this year. We usually fly by the seat of our pants, it's fun that way! :)

I put together a great Valentine's date look for you all that will flatter most anyone. I love getting dressed up, but when wind chills are -15 to -30 below zero, I won't be caught dead in a dress. So for all you stuck in the cold, this is a great go to look for your night out.

Don't forget, you can still make things dressy without wearing a dress :)

 Blazer- H and M
Necklace- Ily Couture
Shirt- Ily Couture
Pumps- DSW
Lipstick- MAC
Leggings- H and M

You can definitely make this look a bit more affordable, but I couldn't help but love this statement necklace piece and wifey t-shirt from Ily Couture! They have some amazing jewelry.

Don't forget to stay tuned for a GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY from my new online boutique, Ginny Blues to open Spring 2014.

~Be sure and follow me and sign up for my newsletter~

ginnyblues.com

instagram @ginnybfashion

twitter @ginnybfashion

Facebok Ginny Blues

Have yourselves a FANTASTIC weekend!

<3

Spring Fashion 2014

Hi Dolls! :)

 

I hope you all are surviving this winter.

 I am not sure about you all, but Michigan has been hit with a rough winter; harder than I can ever remember and I am really over it and ready for some spring-like weather.

 

This past weekend, my cousin and I hit up Chicago's Merchandise Mart for their Spring Stylemax event. Talk about getting a girl in the mood for spring with some fabulous fashion!

 

Holy cow, it was everything I thought and more! Overwhelming, fabulous, crazy, cool, fun, great people watching, and full of the latest trends and styles.
I felt like a kid in Dylan's Candy Bar! 

 

Thank god for my cousin Elyse, also known as Al, whom is my right hand in all this. She has an ahhhhmazing fashion sense and has helped me immensely picking out fearless fashion for you all. I am also grateful to have her business expertise by my side as well!

She has also been my biggest cheerleader and I wouldn't be where I am in this adventure without my hubby and her!

Thanks Ed and Al :)

I am amazingly blessed to have all of my family and friends behind me 100% in this new adventure, and I thank you ALL!
#thisgirlislucky

 

Stylemax was a huge HIT! We purchased so many fabulous pieces for Ginny Blues boutique and had a ton of fun and laughs to go along with it. I can't even sleep at night because my mind is running with excitement. I am constantly piecing outfits upon outfits together in my head.
And the accessories, I don't even know where to start! THEY ARE FABULOUS :)
I want every piece for myself!

 

Packages are trickling in by the day and I can't wait to get them up on the site for you all to see what's for purchase. My clothing purchases can take up to 3 months to process. But, I am confident that the entire site will be up and running in May.

 

So what's in for spring you all ask?
LOTS!

Let me start off with colors.

The new black and white is orange and coral. It is everywhere! This girl is not complaining. I am also loving all the fashion forward prints that are coming out. Tropical prints are huge for spring as well as color blocking and tie die. Yes, tie die is back. Neon colors are also sticking around this spring, as well as maxi dresses and rompers.

 

Statement t-shirts and pendent jewelry is also huge for spring and summer. Love the statement t-shirts, "on a champagne diet" or "home is where -my- shoe closet is" in a fabulous neon.
(Picture complement of cotton candy couture @stylemax Chicago.)

 

Be sure and stock your closet with a pair of distressed denim jeans and boyfriend shorts for spring.
They will be your statement pieces for a comfy, stylish, no hassle look this spring and summer.

 

I could keep going on and on, but my last favorite staple to your spring and summer wardrobe has to be statement headbands. Think beads, sparkle, and color here ladies.
Be fearless and wear them as a statement piece to compliment your outfit.

~Be fearless, be fashionable, shop GINNY BLUES! Spring 2014~
ginnyblues.com
instagram~ @ginnybfashion
twitter~ @ginnybfashion
facebook~ Ginny Blues.

Stay tuned for a Ginny Blues GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY on the blog soon!!
 

Can't wait to dress you all VERY soon!

YAY, tomorrow is Thursday! Almost the weekend :)
Enjoy the rest of your week!!

HUGS
<3

SAY YES!

Hi Dolls! :)

 

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend. Did anyone do anything fun?!

 

I spent the weekend with my hubby and some amazing family and friends skiing and tubing in Pure Michigan! Great fun was had and memories were made.

Feeling very blessed to start the week off!

 

I wanted to share with you all a new beauty find that I now cannot live without.

I don't know what is up with my acne lately, but it's pretty much out of control! I get rid of one blemish and I wake up with a handful more. And, they are all in the same spot. It's so weird, I cannot figure it out.

There is no winning going on here :( It's really annoying to say the least!

 

During our annual ski weekend, we shove 10 of us in a 2 bath, 2 bedroom condo. It makes for great stories and belly laughs. So, as all the girls congregate in the bathroom to wash their face at night, my girlies were using SAY YES to Tomatoes Roller Ball Spot Treatment. I was like, what is this beautiful little thing that I am missing out on? Leave it to my cousin for finding this lovely little gem that we are now all obsessed with!

 

 

 

This little gem is an acne spot treatment in the form of a roller ball. Which is a plus, allowing you not to resort to your hands, which are full of dirt and bacteria.

There is all kinds of goodness in this little roller. Salicylic acid and tea tree oil work to zap zits on contact. Tomatoes contain Lycopene, an antioxidant found in red fruits and vegetables with anti-inflammatory properties.

This formula also contains a blend of Ginger Root and Bisabolol, which are clinically proven to reduce redness around the blemish.

This spot treatment used nightly, literally started drying out and clearing up my chin full of zits in just 48 hours. This formula is gentle and non-irritating, easy to use and affordable.

I AM TRULY IN LOVE and OBSESSED!

I cannot wait to try more of the tomatoes acne line from SAY YES! 

Does anyone have a favorite product from SAY YES?

The SAY YES skincare line of products specializes in anti-aging, acne treatment, sensitive skin, correcting and repairing, and nourishing products. The SAY YES line also sells products for your baby, hair, body, lips, ect.

I must say I am definitely a fan of the facial wipes of the grapefruit line.

This line of products is easily affordable and found at any Meijer, Target, Walmart, Ulta, ect.

Have you signed up yet for the giveaway?!

 The winner will be announced tomorrow on my instagram account @ashbraman!

 

Please click this link below for official entry!
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6839761

<3

GIVEAWAY TIME!

Happy Monday Dolls!

 

One day down, 4 to go!

 

I want to thank you all for your support and following since I began my journey with my blog Profoundly Ash.

It has been nothing but FUN!

I truly love writing to you all and I plan to continue to share my love of fearless fashion and beauty tips with you all for the 2014 year.

 

For just a bit of thanks for sticking with Profoundly Ash and continuing to read and follow, I am giving away a leopard infinity scarf and a fabulous statement ring.

 

 Leopard is definately making a statement this winter. I have to say, I AM LOVING IT!

If you are the lucky winner, I recommend pairing this ahhhhhmazing leopard scarf and statement ring with a red bomber jacket (or black bomber will do) and a great pair of destroyed denim with your favorite ankle bootie of the season. 

Don't forget your fearless red or burgundy lip ladies!

 

If you are my fearless fashionista like my girl Ginny Blues, pair this scarf and statement ring with a hot pink magenta top, black pleather skinnys, leopard pumps, gold arm candy, and MAC Up the Amp purple lipstick. 

Don't forget your favorite pair of shades! :)

 

Some of you may be curious to whom Ginny Blues is. Well, she is my little fearless fashionista known as MY VERY OWN online boutique that will be opening March of 2014.

I AM EXTREMELY EXCITED TO SAY THE LEAST!

She will be full of fun and fearless fashion for all you ladies looking to find some great pieces to rock this spring and summer!

Stay tuned on the blog for her giveaway in the next few weeks to come!

 

 

 

Please click this link below for official entry!
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6839761
 

~Please read below for the RULES as follows before starting~

 

1.  Be a follower of @ashbraman and @ginnybluesfashion on instagram.

 

2. Join Profoundly Ash Blog in the right hand column.

 

3. For your name to be entered 2 extra times, follow @profoundlyash and @ginnybfashion on twitter.

 

This giveaway runs from 1/13/2014- 1/21/2014. The winner will be contacted and announced on the blog.

 

GOOD LUCK!

 

<3

 

GOLD Arm Candy



Hi Dolls!

HAPPY 2014 TO YOU ALL :)

Saying I am excited with anticipation for what 2014 has to bring, would be an understatement! I am thrilled for what is to come for my blog Profoundly Ash, and Ginny Blues women's online boutique, to open spring 2014.

I am not only passionate about skincare and beauty; I love and adore fashion and personal style.

Tonight I want to share with you my obsession with GOLD.

What girl doesn’t love accessories right? They can make or break an outfit.

When it comes to buying gold accessories, you don’t have to go expensive. Forever21, H & M, Charming Charlie's, Express, Windsor, and Target are just a few stores that offer very affordable, trendy pieces for every girls budget.

What I am obsessing over right now is gold “arm candy.” Some of you may ask what the heck am I speaking off?!

It’s very simple! Ever wear attractive accessories on your arm that give your look an extra pop and change the look of your entire outfit?
Well ladies, you are wearing Arm Candy!

I like arm candy because it can really show ones style and character. It is a great way to amp up your style from appealing to eye-catching.

 

I picked out a couple of my favorite gold pieces that can make some great arm candy together or alone. I chose these gold pieces below because you can mix and match them with one another depending on your mood, outfit or occasion.
Even better, they are completely affordable!
Click below for price and purchase.

 

1. Forever21
2. Forever21
3. Charming Charlie
4. Forever21
5. Charming Charlie
6. Forever21
7. Forever21
8. Forever21
9. Charming Charlie
10. Forever21
11. Forever21

Do you gals have a favorite accessory that your outfit cannot live without lately?

Please share
:)

Have yourselves a fabulous week!

<3

Dewy CHEEKs

Hi Dolls!

 

Hope you all enjoyed a fabulous Christmas with all your loved ones and that Santa brought you all you had hoped for! ;)

I hope you all shared some much valued time with family and friends; sharing several belly laughs, great food, and of course some delicious cocktails. 

Our family was very spoiled this year! We got to spend the holidays laughing, enjoying each others company, eating lobster, prawns, and a prime rib Christmas dinner- thanks Aunt Cin!

A lot to be thankful for in the year of 2013!

 

And here it is Saturday morning already and a beautiful morning it is here in GR Michigan. Crisp morning air, sun shining bright, snow covered trees glistening, with snow banks mighty high.

  Delicious chocolate chip pancakes sit in front of me thanks to my hubby! I sit with my morning cup of coffee in hand, my oatmeal and avocado mask on, doing what I love- writing to YOU ALL!

I cannot believe 2014 is days upon us! Anyone have any new years resolutions to share?
I plan to start detoxing!
Morning and lunch juicing and exercising regularly.
I always fall off the wagon when I get home from vacation and December is a tough month to be motivated and eat well with all the holiday parties and festivities.

Today, I am sharing with you all a makeup love of mine.
Who doesn't love a dewy, glistening look to their face- RIGHT?!
I am totally in love with cream blushes lately. They are a fabulous option to try if you love that dewy, sultry finish on the apples of your cheeks ;)
A brand I recommend picking up if your a first time user is NYX Cosmetics, found at my favorite store ULTA. Be sure and bring your coupon and also watch for buy 1, get one 50% off.

NYX Cosmetics is a great line that is extremely affordable. They have great products that are very pigmented and long lasting.
NYX Rouge Cream Blushes are velvety smooth offering a dewy wash of radiant color to your cheeks.
My 2 favorites that I am sharing with you today are Boho Chic (left) and Tickled (right).
Boho Chic is a soft and gentle baby pink.
 Tickled is a soft shimmering peaches and cream finish.

 

 

 

These blushes are great to wear in the winter because they give you that glow that your skin is missing in the dry, wintery months.
This line of cream blushes that NYX offers has a several colors to choose from that will suit anyone's liking. These blushes are buildable to attain the perfect amount of pigment you are looking for, whether it be suttle or dramatic.
Better yet, they last all day.
Be sure and apply your cream blush with your fingertips or a makeup sponge right where you want it.

I do love shopping at ULTA because they always have testers on the floor so you can sample the product and color before purchase.
At $6.00 a piece for these blushes, add a coupon, you would be silly not to give one a try.



Do you have a favorite blush product whether it be cream or powder? If so, I would love to hear about it because I love trying new things!

Hope you all enjoy the rest of 2013.

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!


<3

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

 

Hi Dolls!

Happy Holidays to you ALL!

Hope you all have been staying warm this winter! I apologize for my absence in writing on the blog. It’s been a busy couple months! NO EXCUSE THOUGH, because I truly love writing. Just wish there was more time in the day. I keep telling myself, maybe I should be getting up early and writing- but I am so not a morning person!

I am very thankful this holiday season. My hubby and I got to celebrate our 1^st anniversary in the Dominican Republic together for a week, which was fabulous with some much needed R and R. Back to reality with work and the chaos of finishing holiday shopping and gift wrapping. Though I LOVE nothing more than giving a great gift to someone you love and care so much about! And did I mention, we got to come back to almost a foot of snow. The winter has not been so nice to Michiganders this year.

I wanted to share some special news with you all!

After countless months of research, lots of praying, sweat and tears I am proud to announce the opening of MY online store, Ginny Blues to open this 

March 2014.

I AM BEYOND EXCITED AND THRILLED!

The focus of my store will be trendy pieces of female clothing and accessories at very affordable prices.

Yes, I am a Registered Nurse by day, but my passion and OBSESSION lies within fashion, with an appreciation for fabulous and affordable style.

Don’t worry; I am not quitting my day job.

 

 I have a website in the process of design dedicated to Ginny Blues. I plan to put together fashionable pieces for you (from Ginny Blues merchandise) and post them on the blog.

 

Often I get from women that the hardest thing is pairing things together to make an outfit. Take for example a great top;  what bottom, shoe, and or accessory do you then pair with it?

That’s where I come in and that’s what I love doing! I love helping you make a great top LOOK FABULOUS with that killer pair of heels, or stunning piece of jewelry.

 

I am blessed to have the help and business expertise of my oh-so stylish cousin Elyse in all of this.

She will be my sidekick in helping me find fabulous pieces to offer you all.

In 5 short weeks we will be shopping the Chicago StyleMax to bring you the latest, most fabulous trends for the spring at VERY affordable prices.

 If any of you know me, I am a bargain shopper through and through and that’s what I intend to do for all of you.

 

Off that exciting note, I am here to share a fabulous holiday look with you all tonight.

Leopard print is in full swing this holiday season and I am totally obsessed.

Pictured below is a fabulous holiday outfit to wear to any Christmas party; whether it be work, family, or friends gathering.

 

These pieces below are not only fabulous put together like so, but can be used for other occasions. Pair this gorgeous leopard top with a great pair of skinny jeans and tall black boots. Have a winter wedding to attend? Pair this beautiful black skirt with an oxblood red scoop-neck shirt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top- here

Heels- here

Skirt- here

Clutch-here

Bracelet- here

Necklace- here

Lipstick- here

 

Thank you ALL for supporting Profoundly Ash this year! I cannot wait to see what 2014 brings!

 

Hope you all enjoy this week with the ones you love. May God bless you all with a new year full of health, wealth, love, and happiness.

 

<3

 

 

 



FOUNDATION- I FINALLY found my HOLY GRAIL!

Hi Lovely Ladies!

 

Hope you all have had a great week so far! THANK GOD IT'S THURDAY :)

 

I wanted to share with you all a foundation you must ALL try. I have heard about this foundation for some time due to all the Vloggers and Bloggers out there. But have to say, was too chicken to try it. Thanks to my cousin, she took the plunge first and I was sold after I saw the change in her appearance and all the amazing things she had to say about the foundation.

 

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation.

It is the gold standard in foundation for so many reasons!

 

 

1. 15-hour staying power- this is no joke!

 

2. Fresh and flawless looking skin through heat, humidity, and nonstop craziness.- they are not kidding, it really is that stellar and that long-wearing!

Looks like the first hour your first applied it, ALL DAY LONG.

 

3. Lightweight and comfortable. Not sticky or heavy feeling at all.

 

4. Medium to full coverage that is buildable.

 

5. Oil-controlling, oil-free, won't clog pores.

 

6.Dermatologist tested.

 

 

Most of you that follow me know that I am always covering up a breakout or uneven skin tone. I truly can use this foundation without even applying a concealer. It covers EVERYTHING with one application and doesn't feel heavy in the least bit. It glides on your skin, giving it a satin, dewy finish.

With one application of this with my foundation brush, my skin transforms to this beautiful, flawless face. Always remember to set your foundation with the setting powder of your choice.

 

Ladies, try this foundation if you haven't found one your dreamy over. I have tried them all- MAC, Dior, airbrush foundations, every drugstore brand on the market and then some. This foundation is a true gem.

You can buy this foundation for 37$ at any participating Estee Lauder department store; Macys, Bloomingdales, and Nordstrom.

What is your favorite foundation and why do you love it? I love to hear your comments!

Have yourselves an amazing rest of the week :)

<3

GLOW for the Holidays

Hi Dolls!

 

Hope everyone is having a great week!

 

I am so thrilled for you all to check out the "new look" to the blog! I happen to love it :)

I don't know about you, but I am getting so excited for the holidays! Trying to hold back from decorating for Christmas. There are so many great things I love about the holidays. Do you have a favorite memory?

I am so thankful and grateful for this life God has blessed my Eddie and I with.
With the holidays comes great food and cocktails, getting together with the family and laughing out loud until our stomachs hurt, decorating, shopping for loved ones, dressing up, pumpkin spice and peppermint lattes, holiday parties, trying new makeup looks to go with glam fashion for special occasion parties!
And so much more!

 

Ever kick up your makeup for the holidays? Why not! It is a great time to "get out of the box!"

Believe it or not, your makeup routine may be missing that special finishing touch that will create a BIG DIFFERENCE!

 

~LUMINIZING~

Ever hear of it? It is one of the smartest products around and can be very inexpensive. To find out what it can do for you and how you can use it to look fabulous, keep reading :)

 

I call the luminizer the hidden gem in the makeup world. Who doesn't love dewy, fresh skin like J-Lo's?! Well ladies, she uses a luminizer!

Below is E.L.F. "warm bronzer" sold at Meijer and Target for $3. A total steal and a good pick up if you want to try out a luminizer.
I definitely use this as a luminizer and not as an all-over bronzer because you would look like a disco ball.

 

Luminizer is a shimmery mineralized product applied to the skin. Luminizers diffuse light to make skin look dewy, soft, and youthful. It is used to highlight certain areas of the face and body. For example, run it along your cheekbones as a highlighter or down the center of your nose to give it a slimmer effect. 

Below are three of my favorite luminators. From left to right MAC Porcelain Pink (limited edition), MAC Lightscapade, and MAC Gold Deposit.

I use whichever one depending on my mood :)

 
 

 

Luminizer is applied after you have applied your foundation and concealer and set with powder. Why set your face with powder after your liquid foundation and concealer? So it lasts longer and doesn't run in the middle of the day :)

To highlight, sweep a small amount of luminizer along the tops of your cheekbones before you put on your blush or bronzer. It can also be used to highlight the inner corners of the eye or the area right under your eyebrows.

 Create a stripe down the center of your nose to give it more symmetry. Experiment to see what works well for you.

Hoping your liking the new look of the blog as much as I am!

Do you have a favorite luminizer you cannot live without?

Wishing you all a fabulous weekend!
 Cannot wait to share with you all a BIG announcement soon that I am so excited over as well as a FABULOUS beauty GIVEAWAY coming very soon!

<3

 

 

 



Faux Fur

Hi Dolls :)

 

TGIF Tomorrow!

 

WaHOOOOOOOOOOO!

 

I wanted to share one of my favorite trends for the season and a great addition to your Christmas list- FAUX FUR.

A great gift for just about any special female in your life whether you by it for your wife, girlfriend, mom, aunt, friend ect.

All it is quite simply is fake fur. I love it because you can dress it up or dress it down and it still looks classy. It also flatters almost anyone worn right. You can also wear faux fur so many different ways.
And it is extremely affordable when found right!

 

I pulled a few favorites for you and they are all under 40$!

 

 

 

1. I love this beigy-black faux fur vest. It is edgy, yet classy. A great piece to pair with your skinny denim and tall boots, black jeans and booties, or flare denim and nude pumps. Buy this gorgeous piece here.

 

2. Who doesn't love black and white?! This beautiful black and white vest is a great piece to wear out to lunch with the girls, out on the go running errands, or out sipping coffee on vacation in the mountains- I wish :) 

Pair this vest with a black beanie, leggings, and a great pair of wedge boots.

Purchase this here.

 

3. I absolutely love color! Not a fan of wearing dresses for the holidays? I see this gorgeous red vest paired with a great pair of pleather black leggings or a pair of black sequined leggings with a fierce pair of black heels. Want to add so more character? Add a fun black floppy hat, a dark smokey eye, and nude lip.

Click here for purchase.

 

Do you have a favorite trend this season? I would love to hear!

Have yourselves a fabulous weekend in whatever you do :)

 

HUGS!

 

<3

 

Ash



Foundation Tips

Hi Dolls!

 

Hope your weekend was fabulous! I just have to say, GO GREEN GO WHITE GO STATE!

 

Not sure about you all, but I LOVE MAKEUP! Kind of obsessed you could say. My bathroom pretty much revolves around it. It's everywhere! My poor husband, haha! He is so sweet though...he bought me a great shelving unit to keep it all organized and try to stay clean.
Me keeping my space clean and organized other than work, pry not! 

My hubby is really great about my hot mess clutter of beauty necessities. 

We have 3 bathrooms in our house and he chooses to share the master bath with me! His problem, not mine :)~

Lets hope he doesn't read this post!!

 

Foundation, god love it! It is the best war paint ever invented. Truly has the ability to transform a face.

Though, it can be tricky finding the best coverage and color for your skin. Most of us are not wearing the correct Undertone, cool or warm.

No worries, it's actually quite simple.

 

Cool Undertones

Roll up your sleeves and take a look at the inside of your wrists. If you have cool undertones, you will notice your skin has a pink, red, or blue tinge to it.

Take a look at your veins on the inside of your forearm. Are they blue or green? 

If they look more blue, you are rocking the cool tones.
 

Warm Undertones

Are you a warm one? You will notice your skin has a yellow, gold, or peach hue to it. If the veins on the inside of your forearm are green, you are a warm undertone.

Take for example my LOREAL Foundation below. At the very bottom of the bottle you see the words "warm" for warm undertone skin. 

 

 

Also peak at the top or bottom of the foundation for undertone specifics.

"W" is for warm and 5 is for the level of color.

Color level will depend on how light or dark you need to buy.

When your dealing with drugstore makeup where you can't test it on your skin before buying, sometimes it's just trial and error when it comes to your color level.

 

Neutral Undertones

Are you none of the above? Don't worry there is a tone for you!  You are neutral if your skin is neither pink/red/blue nor yellow/gold/peach, but somewhere in between. And better yet, your veins are blue-green.

Each foundation line caters to Undertones so be sure and read your labels.

 

Oily Skin

Look for a foundation that is "oil-free", oil-control" or "mattifying."

 

Dry Skin

Look for moisturizing foundations. Look for the words "hydrating" or "moisture-rich" wording on the bottle.

 

Combination Skin

You are a combination of dry and oily skin. Cream-to-powder bases work great.

 

Sensitive Skin

Mineral foundations work well on all skin types, especially for those that are sensitive.

 

Coverage: Do You Want Light, Medium or Heavy?

I like to choose a lighter coverage for spring and summer months and heavier, creamier coverage for the colder months

If you have nice skin, but want to even out your skin tone, tinted moisturizers are great.

Having sensitive skin, uneven skin tone, and being prone to breakouts, I definitely always use a medium coverage in the winter. Most medium coverage foundations have the ability to build to full-coverage. Usually in the summer I can get away with a great CC Cream. My favorite being Smashbox's CC Cream.
I have still yet to find my perfect winter medium-full coverage foundation. I have been trying lots for you! So far I am still sold on the 24-hr Revlon Colorstay Whipped Foundation.
I have a couple foundations to add to my list to try this winter, Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation and Lock-It Tattoo Foundation by Kat Von D, both have rave reviews.

Hope this helped all of you a bit. If your ever in doubt, treat yourself to a trip to the makeup counters at Macy's and let the professionals help. If there is one thing to spend money on in your makeup kit, I recommend it be foundation.

Please message me if you have any questions or requests for a future post!

Have yourselves a great week!

HUGS!

<3Ash

 



 

 

 

 

 



Pamper your Skin

Hi Dolls!

 

~HAPPY HALLOWEEN~
 

Hope everyone has got to enjoy a bit of this beautiful fall we have had. I love everything about the season. Pumpkin spice lattes, the leaves changing, wine tasting, cool crisp air, college football, bonfires, road trips, HALLOWEEN and so much more!

Though I love fall, my skin starts to take a beating. I want to touch on some skin care tips for this cold and dry season that you can also carry on to the winter months.
 

Hands

To keep your hands in tip top shape, be sure and purchase an alcohol free cleanser to put next to your desk. It will be less drying than washing your hands repeatedly with soap and water. It's the wet to dry that soaks up all the moisture out of your skin. Slather on lotion right after cleansing.

Eucerin Intensive Repair Extra Enriched Hand Crème is a great buy.

 For extra added moisture trapping, lotion up your hands with Eucerin at night and throw on a pair of gloves.

There is nothing like an old pair of hands to show your age.

 

Elbows/Knees 

Do any of you suffer from dry patches on elbows or knees? To treat this you want to grab a hydrating scrub. You can actually create this with a couple of ingredients in your kitchen, honey and sugar. Who knew, honey reduces inflammation and sugar increases circulation. Mix the two ingredients 1:1 and make it a part of your shower routine.

 

Exfoliating 

All-over body exfoliating is definitely a must in the cold months to rid your body of dead skin cells and to allow your moisturizer to penetrate deep into the skin.

A great cheap buy is St. Ives Purify Exfoliating Wash for $3 at any drugstore.

 

Body 

Give your body a full layer of moisture after drying off from your shower.

My mom turned me on to Neutrogena Body Oil years ago and has been a favorite of mine for quite some time now. It is very light and vanishes into the skin shortly after application. Your skin feels soft, silky, and radiant.

You also know how I feel about Coconut Oil. This works great too as a body moisturizer.

 

Face 

Facial moisturizers should be a must in your daily and nightly routines. You only get one beautiful face to pamper so you better spoil it!

No matter the type of skin you have, it is so important to give your skin moisture on a daily basis.

 

Right now I am a big fan of Aveno Daily Moisturizer for my morning routine. This gentle chamomile-infused moisturizer has SPF 15 and does not irritate the skin, without breaking the bank.

I am also a big fan of Cerave Moisturizing Lotion that is great for sensitive skin. It moisturizes, protects, and gives the skin a protective barrier.

 

For my night time moisturizing regimen I just started using SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel for the past month. I have very sensitive, easily irritated, acne prone skin. This gel is a fabulous oil-free hydrator for those with problematic skin who are sensitive, easily irritated, and prone to breakouts.
It contains anti-inflammatory cucumber and anti-bacterial thyme to soothe and calm the skin. Another plus, it fights and acts to treat skin discoloration. This magic in a bottle can be a bit pricey. But what moisturizer can do that many things?!
 I found the best price for you here. This bottle will last you a good 6 months if used once a day.

 

All products above that I did not share a link to are all found at your local drugstore or supermarket.

 

I would love to know what all your holy grails are or what you have found that works well for you!

 

I hope you all stay tuned! My blog is getting a major face life here soon and I am raffling off a major giveaway to celebrate!!!

 

Have yourselves a great weekend!

 

GO GREEN, GO WHITE

&

Sparty ON!

 

<3Ash

Get Your MASK On!

Hi Dolls!

I have been away for far too long and I do apologize! Hope you all are doing well. I wanted to touch on skin care maintenance and conditioning. Let’s be honest, no one wants to age and prevention and good skin care routines are key to beautiful skin!

Are you spending the time on your skin that it needs weekly? Requiring applying a facial mask twice a week? Well if not, you may want to start. Facial mask benefits are endless. They not only condition and treat the skin, but bring life back to your skin as well.

I cannot stress the importance of skin care enough. Working in the industry I do, it has surely opened my eyes to realizing that I can’t trade my skin in down the road. Aging is inevitable, but we can at least provide a great skin care routine day and night to keep our largest organ looking its best.

So what mask to buy you ask will depend on your skin type. There are several different types of masks out there depending on your skin type. Oily/combination skin benefits from clay masks to fight acne. There are exfoliating masks to wash away dead skin cells. People who are dry, benefit from anything from glycerin to aromatherapy oils. Sensitive or easily irritated skin should look for a mask with green tea ingredients. Also, play around with ingredients in your own kitchen to mix the perfect combination for your skin.

Never applied a mask, and not really sure what to do. Before applying your mask, be sure and remove all makeup with a cleansing cloth. Proceed to wash your face with your cleanser of choice. Gently pat your skin dry and apply your mask with your fingertips. Allow the mask to sit on the skin for 20 minutes before removing it with warm water. Be sure and apply your favorite moisturizer when finished.

I have two favorite masks that I am l loving lately. My skin is combination skin, sensitive, and prone to breakouts. I stumbled across Formula 10.0.6 Pores Be Pure, skin-clarifying mask at Ulta this summer. I picked up this $5.99 mask because I couldn’t stop reading the amazing reviews and I couldn’t believe the price. This mask lives by its motto and goes right to work on clogged pores. The smell of this mask alone is beyond delicious, exhibiting the smell of a field of strawberries. I truly can say that after using this mask over the past 8-10 weeks, I feel that it truly works GREAT eliminating impurities. When I feel a breakout coming on, I apply this before bed. I have not only noticed a reduction in my pore size, but in the amount of redness in my skin. Give this mask a try, and in one application you will see and feel a difference in the surface of your skin.

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque. Need I say more about the QUEEN?! This mask truly rocks! I was introduced to this diamond in the rough by my cousin, who is pry the one and only person that I know who is as obsessed with everything beauty and fashion as I am. I actually use this mask as a spot treatment on my already existing breakouts. With one application, you will be sold. At $3.99, this stuff is irresistible. Easily found at Walgreens or Ulta.

 

 

 

Freeman Beauty has great facial masks as well that I recommend trying. Avocado and Oatmeal Facial Mask is a great nourishing mask with Vitamin E, Avocado, and Oatmeal. Perfect for normal to combination skin.

Want a great mask to exfoliate and purify the skin? Try Freeman Beauty, Cucumber Facial Peel-Off Mask. It has cooling and moisturizing properties that peel away impurities. Cucumber Extracts and Aloe soothe, moisturize, and repair the skin. Perfect for normal to combination skin. Both of these great masks are available for $3.99 at any Walgreens or Ulta.

I cannot stress enough how my skin has changed by adding an affordable mask to my routine just twice a week. My skin tone is softer and my breakouts are slim to none.

So ladies grab your girlfriends, your favorite mask, and a bottle of wine and have some fun!

If you would like me to blog about my holy grail skin care routine, please let me know.

Have yourself a fantastic week!

 

<3 Ash