Showing posts with label beach. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beach. Show all posts
Saturday, September 1, 2018
Pinspiration: Beach baby
Even though 99% of what I've been pinning is wedding related, there have been a few other gems here and there! These ones just give me major good vibes!
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Beach Babe Gift Guide
Since I started blogging I've wanted to do a gift guide. I always see other bloggers post them and find myself scrolling through going "I want that, I want that..." So I figured better now than later to give it a whirl for myself! I call this the "Beach Babe" gift guide, as I've simply curated some cute things to give to that super cool chick in your life who lives every day like it's summer and loves everything about the beach. I found this simple because obviously, I am that girl. Basically, I picked a bunch of my favorite things that I thought would make for some pretty awesome gifts! The links to each product are below (along with why I love it) and I've tried to order them in a left to right/top to bottom pattern to correspond with the picture! The gifts I chose range from about $10-$150 and hopefully will inspire ideas as well! Enjoy!
Row 1:
Kula to Kuau Shell Trinket Box $15 // How cute is this little seashell?! A great gift for the girl who thinks she's a mermaid, its perfect for her to keep all of her human treasures in.
Ulu Lagoon Coconut Surf Wax Candle $28 // I currently have this in the air freshener hanging from my rearview mirror and I'm in love. The candles smell just as amazing and how cool is this special collection tin?!
S'well Bottle Waikiki $35 // S'well bottles are generally awesome, but even better in this palm frond print! Swoon. I'll admit, this one made it to my Christmas list. Fingers crossed.
Row 2:
KnitCoutureCo Chunky Knit Blanket $149 // I keep seeing these blankets everywhere and I really really am in need. I just love the boho vibe of it and of course, mermaids get cold too!
R+Co Rockaway Salt Spray $25 // A beach babe always needs a good sea salt spray (or 5). R+Co makes awesome hair products in super cute packaging!!
Lush Cosmetics The Experimenter Bath Bomb $9 // Lush is an all time favorite of mine and you can't go wrong with a bath bomb! Plus this one has glitter. Case in point.
Rockabella Jewels Hawaii Shark Tooth Choker $45 // I have a bracelet from this designer and it's so pretty! I knew I had to put one of their pieces on the list and I came across this pretty little thing. And now I want it for myself! Perfect for your beach babe and totally on trend!
Pacifica 7 Free Nail Polish in Nirvana Nirvana $9 // Nail polish is always a great gift. You can never have enough! Pacifica is all natural and they have some really pretty, beachy shades like this one!
Row 3:
Duvin Design Company Logger Beanie (Pink) $28 // I discovered this brand this summer at a surf shop in Florida! I was honored to have several guys from the team follow me on IG (much love xoxo!) Aside from that, their clothes and accessories are super cool and I love this little beanie with the palm tree pin!
Kawaiian Lion Major Peace Out Cushion $129 // Honestly, I've been wanting something from this brand for a really long time. You've probably seen me mention them before, as I constantly stalk them on IG (sorry not sorry). But really, this is the cutest cushion/pillow, great for a beach babe's bed or sofa!
Surf Glam Aloha Long Sleeve Tee $38 // I love this top because it keeps the "aloha spirit" but also keeps you warm!
With Love From Paradise Kepana | Malia Short $46 // A beach babe can never have enough aloha print! These booty shorts are great for a yoga sesh or for just lounging around!
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Nothing Like a Good 'Ol Fashioned BBQ
So this weekend I, as I'm sure many of you did, went to a barbecue. It was awesome getting off on a Sunday during Memorial Day weekend, being in retail, so I was amped. My parents, aunt and uncle came to visit for the weekend which was awesome, since I haven't seen anyone since I moved back down here. Also it was my mom's and my other aunt's birthdays! So I guess it was a Memorial Day/Birthday bash!
I started off the day at the beach with my dad, which was wonderful. It was the perfect beach day and I was totally in mermaid status. See below.
After that and a little bit of shopping, we headed to my aunt and uncle's house for a barbecue. I love their house so much. They just redid it and it legit looks like a boat. It's awesome. So don't be surprised if you see it pop up again in future pictures.
Like any other barbecue, we had lots of food, booze, and good times. My cousin Alyssa and I got to hang out and girl talk, which is always the best. We even got a few pretty great snapshots!
She also might be hired as my new blog photographer since I'm starting to run out of places to hold my iPhone while I put it on the timer haha. We managed to get a pretty sick shot of my outfit!
Since I had been at the beach, and was going to be in the pool later I totally just left my bathing suit on under my dress/shirt. That's the salt life for you. There actually is a meaning behind the term "beach bum."
I started off the day at the beach with my dad, which was wonderful. It was the perfect beach day and I was totally in mermaid status. See below.
After that and a little bit of shopping, we headed to my aunt and uncle's house for a barbecue. I love their house so much. They just redid it and it legit looks like a boat. It's awesome. So don't be surprised if you see it pop up again in future pictures.
Like any other barbecue, we had lots of food, booze, and good times. My cousin Alyssa and I got to hang out and girl talk, which is always the best. We even got a few pretty great snapshots!
She also might be hired as my new blog photographer since I'm starting to run out of places to hold my iPhone while I put it on the timer haha. We managed to get a pretty sick shot of my outfit!
Since I had been at the beach, and was going to be in the pool later I totally just left my bathing suit on under my dress/shirt. That's the salt life for you. There actually is a meaning behind the term "beach bum."
[Dress: Free People | Hat: Claire's (like a gazillion years ago) | Shoes: Birkenstock's | Necklace: Geometric Theory (Etsy) | Bracelets: Lokai, Lucky Brand ]
Through all of the family fun and chatting, we had to stop for a birthday celebration! My mom and my aunt Deb had the coolest cake ever!
Unfortunately, on actual Memorial Day I had to work. But that did not deter me from being super patriotic!! I rocked the red, white, and blue like it was nobody's business (in my opinion.) Another fun example of combining my usual wardrobe with my drawer full of lululemon gear.
[Tee: Abercrombie & Fitch | Jacket: Lucky Brand | Scarf: lululemon | Pants: lululemon | Shoes: Converse ]
Monday, April 27, 2015
A New Chapter
Hey Everyone!!
I'm aware that it has pretty much been radio silence from me for the past month or so, and for that I sincerely apologize. However, I do have a pretty good excuse. In the past couple of weeks, I've completely uprooted my life. I moved from Philadelphia back to Myrtle Beach, started two new jobs, and I'm still processing everything. Including unpacking all of my things! I have a LOT of clothes. So that's what I've been up to recently.
As emotionally horrible as it was for me to leave my job at Nordstrom, which I loved, I am excited for my two new jobs! I'm now happily employed at Tommy Bahama, which is totally chill and awesome, and I'm also working at a brand new lululemon which will be opening this weekend! That has been a definite rush. Getting to be a part of something new is so exciting, and I know that most of my paychecks will go right back to the company. (Side note: If you've never bought lululemon clothes, you are seriously missing out!) I'm learning so much and it's really been a great time!!
Aside from my crazy adventuring, I haven't forgotten about my blog here! I'm planning on some new and exciting things, and I'm stoked to start writing about life at the beach! So stay tuned for more of my usual posts, but also even more cool stuff!
I'm aware that it has pretty much been radio silence from me for the past month or so, and for that I sincerely apologize. However, I do have a pretty good excuse. In the past couple of weeks, I've completely uprooted my life. I moved from Philadelphia back to Myrtle Beach, started two new jobs, and I'm still processing everything. Including unpacking all of my things! I have a LOT of clothes. So that's what I've been up to recently.
As emotionally horrible as it was for me to leave my job at Nordstrom, which I loved, I am excited for my two new jobs! I'm now happily employed at Tommy Bahama, which is totally chill and awesome, and I'm also working at a brand new lululemon which will be opening this weekend! That has been a definite rush. Getting to be a part of something new is so exciting, and I know that most of my paychecks will go right back to the company. (Side note: If you've never bought lululemon clothes, you are seriously missing out!) I'm learning so much and it's really been a great time!!
Aside from my crazy adventuring, I haven't forgotten about my blog here! I'm planning on some new and exciting things, and I'm stoked to start writing about life at the beach! So stay tuned for more of my usual posts, but also even more cool stuff!
XO, Briana
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Pinspiration: Escape
Lately I've been inspired by fellow bloggers who sometimes post a series of pins that caught their eye or inspired them in some way. Since I discovered this "pinspiration" posting, I've been wanting to do a few myself. I just love the random order of it all, how they don't necessarily go together in the traditional sense but somehow still make sense. So here is my first, of many, pinspiration posts. I called this one "Escape."
All photos are linked to their original source or their location on my profile (if I couldn't find the original link)
Saturday, August 9, 2014
"No Makeup" Makeup Look
Hey everyone! And helloooo August! As we make our way into the hottest month of the year, our hair is expanding and our makeup is melting as soon as we step out of our air conditioned homes. Great. But there are a few things we can do to find the happy medium between "I don't care, it's too hot," and "I care way too much even though it's hot." Enter the "no makeup"/natural makeup trend. Girls, this is to our advantage! I'm talking minimal, lightweight makeup that's barely there but still enhances that natural beauty of yours!
A light amount of makeup is great for a very hot August day, a day by the pool or beach, or anywhere you're planning on sweating! I know a lot of people have something to say about wearing makeup to the beach, but personally I'm not comfortable leaving my house without something on my face. I have a blotchy complexion and dark under eye circles that I feel are better covered than out to see the world. So I just put on very minimal makeup to even out my skin and give me enough coverage to feel comfortable. Without further ado, here is my "no makeup" mini makeup tutorial!!
Step 1: Tinted Moisturizer
This little guy is your best friend for summer. It's like a moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation all in one! It's lighter than BB cream, but still gets the job done. I like to use the Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturizer with SPF. This is great for the sun because it's lightweight so you won't feel clogged up, the tint gives you the right amount of coverage without looking like a foundation, and the SPF protects your skin from harmful UV rays!
I just start off using about a dime-nickle size amount and just rub it all on my face and neck. Make sure you blend because it is tinted and you'll be able to see any lines or clumps. On occasion, I'll just use this by itself, since it does such a great job. Every step past here is optional, but today I'm going to show you a little bit extra.
Step 2: Concealer
I'm addicted to concealer. It really is a wonderful thing. For me, someone who has redness and the occasional blemish flare up, I just go to town with my concealer. But for this look, the key word is minimum. So I just put a little bit on my blemishes (if any) and under my eyes to cover those dark circles. In my opinion, this is good for your tan anyway. You don't want under your eyes, your blemishes/scars, or your super red areas to burn or get darker anyway. To me, concealer gives that extra layer of protection. Like a hat for your skin! I use Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer. Mine is the double ended wand with the Pure Color Lip Gloss on the other end, but you can buy just the concealer alone.
Like I said, I just pat a little bit under my eyes using my middle finger and on any blemishes or extreme redness I may have that day. Make sure you blend well so it gives you coverage, but still looks natural.
Step 3: Translucent Powder
This step is optional depending on how you're feeling. Sometimes I'm feeling a little extra shiny, so I'll just tap on a little bit of translucent powder, even if just to set what I've done. Here I've used the Mary Kay Translucent Loose Powder.
Just take a stipple brush and grab some powder. Either tap on, or swirl the brush in circles to apply. This will just mattefy what you've already put on and keep it from running or smudging.
Step 4: Eyebrows
Eyebrows are so so important, even when you're wearing minimal makeup. Making sure that your eyebrows look crisp and groomed will open up your eyes and your face! There are several ways to do this, depending on your eyebrows. Mine are temperamental and like to go all over the place. They're also scarce in places, so I like to use the Benefit Gimme Brow. It's a miracle working tinted brow gel that is one of my favorite products! In one foul swoop, my eyebrows are perfectly pigmented and set in place! No fuss, no muss! And it looks natural, but clean. It's super easy to use as well: all you do is take the little spoolie and brush it on starting at the front of your brow and work your way to the tips!
If you don't have this brow product, you can use a clear brow gel or mascara like this one, or a wax pencil like this one. There are so many things made just for your eyebrows nowadays so if you have trouble finding something, then you haven't looked hard enough!! Don't be afraid to try out different things and find one you like the best!
Step 5: Liner
No, we are not using thick black eyeliner, or anything crazy. Just a little trick I picked up in my many years of using makeup! To open up our eyes even more, we're going to tightline our water line with a pearly white liner! I used to use stark white, but then I read somewhere that using a slightly off white, looks more natural and is closer to the whites of your eyes! So I picked up this Sephora Collection Nano Eyeliner in Pearl Beige.
Simply use this liner along your waterline and in the corners of your eyes! It not only give you a nice glow, but will also make your eyes look bigger!
Step 6: Lashes
Again, this is optional. But for me, I like to use just a little bit of mascara to open up my eyes! It's the finishing touch to my "no makeup" look! The key here is waterproof. Believe me, if you know you're going to sweat, you don't want to wear regular mascara! Unless you're going for the raccoon look, then by all means go for it. But seeing as that's not what we're going for, I used the Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Volum' Express Waterproof Mascara in the blackest black I could find. I have super dark hair, so I use black and only black mascara. Anyway, this mascara is great for a natural, full lash with that added waterproof protection. Again, it looks like you're just having a really good lash day (if that's even possible). Just lift and wiggle on your top lashes and also your outer bottom lashes to really open up your pretty eyes!
Step 7: Lips
Don't forget to protect those luscious lips! I will reiterate what I said in my Beach Essentials Post: people often forget about their lips! They are just as sensitive to the sun as the rest of your face, so make sure you wear a lip balm with SPF! This time, I used Sun Bum SPF 30 Pink Grapefruit Lip Balm. I just got this and I absoluteness love it. It smells and tastes good (if you accidentally lick it. I don't recommend purposely licking it) and it's greasy in a good way (if you can imagine that). It gives your lips a nice shine and you can tell easily when it wears off and when it's time to reapply! They also come in several different flavors!
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And viola! The "no makeup" makeup look! The point here is to say, I look great even without makeup! Even though you are technically wearing some, it sure doesn't look like you are. Away with the haters who bash on girls who wear makeup to the beach, pool, or even the gym! I will not apologize for feeling more comfortable with makeup on and neither should you! Don't get me wrong, I have no problem with girls who don't wear makeup. Kudos to you! But for me personally, my skin gets yucky when I don't wear anything and then I'm self conscious about it all day. So I rock this look! Also, you can use this look for those days where you just want to do the minimum and still look put together and awake. Hell, use it whenever you want!
Regardless of when and where you try this look, I hope you like it and test it out for yourself! Remember, every step past that tinted moisturizer is additional so feel free to mix it up! If you do try it out, let me know! I want to know what you used, your variations, and how you liked it! Leave your posts and replies in the comments section! Thus, I leave you with the full product list below!! :)
XO, Briana
A light amount of makeup is great for a very hot August day, a day by the pool or beach, or anywhere you're planning on sweating! I know a lot of people have something to say about wearing makeup to the beach, but personally I'm not comfortable leaving my house without something on my face. I have a blotchy complexion and dark under eye circles that I feel are better covered than out to see the world. So I just put on very minimal makeup to even out my skin and give me enough coverage to feel comfortable. Without further ado, here is my "no makeup" mini makeup tutorial!!
edit.jpg) |
| *Expressionless for makeup viewing purposes only. |
Step 1: Tinted Moisturizer
This little guy is your best friend for summer. It's like a moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation all in one! It's lighter than BB cream, but still gets the job done. I like to use the Aveeno Positively Radiant Tinted Moisturizer with SPF. This is great for the sun because it's lightweight so you won't feel clogged up, the tint gives you the right amount of coverage without looking like a foundation, and the SPF protects your skin from harmful UV rays!
I just start off using about a dime-nickle size amount and just rub it all on my face and neck. Make sure you blend because it is tinted and you'll be able to see any lines or clumps. On occasion, I'll just use this by itself, since it does such a great job. Every step past here is optional, but today I'm going to show you a little bit extra.
Step 2: Concealer
I'm addicted to concealer. It really is a wonderful thing. For me, someone who has redness and the occasional blemish flare up, I just go to town with my concealer. But for this look, the key word is minimum. So I just put a little bit on my blemishes (if any) and under my eyes to cover those dark circles. In my opinion, this is good for your tan anyway. You don't want under your eyes, your blemishes/scars, or your super red areas to burn or get darker anyway. To me, concealer gives that extra layer of protection. Like a hat for your skin! I use Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer. Mine is the double ended wand with the Pure Color Lip Gloss on the other end, but you can buy just the concealer alone.
Like I said, I just pat a little bit under my eyes using my middle finger and on any blemishes or extreme redness I may have that day. Make sure you blend well so it gives you coverage, but still looks natural.
Step 3: Translucent Powder
This step is optional depending on how you're feeling. Sometimes I'm feeling a little extra shiny, so I'll just tap on a little bit of translucent powder, even if just to set what I've done. Here I've used the Mary Kay Translucent Loose Powder.
Just take a stipple brush and grab some powder. Either tap on, or swirl the brush in circles to apply. This will just mattefy what you've already put on and keep it from running or smudging.
Step 4: Eyebrows
Eyebrows are so so important, even when you're wearing minimal makeup. Making sure that your eyebrows look crisp and groomed will open up your eyes and your face! There are several ways to do this, depending on your eyebrows. Mine are temperamental and like to go all over the place. They're also scarce in places, so I like to use the Benefit Gimme Brow. It's a miracle working tinted brow gel that is one of my favorite products! In one foul swoop, my eyebrows are perfectly pigmented and set in place! No fuss, no muss! And it looks natural, but clean. It's super easy to use as well: all you do is take the little spoolie and brush it on starting at the front of your brow and work your way to the tips!
If you don't have this brow product, you can use a clear brow gel or mascara like this one, or a wax pencil like this one. There are so many things made just for your eyebrows nowadays so if you have trouble finding something, then you haven't looked hard enough!! Don't be afraid to try out different things and find one you like the best!
Step 5: Liner
No, we are not using thick black eyeliner, or anything crazy. Just a little trick I picked up in my many years of using makeup! To open up our eyes even more, we're going to tightline our water line with a pearly white liner! I used to use stark white, but then I read somewhere that using a slightly off white, looks more natural and is closer to the whites of your eyes! So I picked up this Sephora Collection Nano Eyeliner in Pearl Beige.
Simply use this liner along your waterline and in the corners of your eyes! It not only give you a nice glow, but will also make your eyes look bigger!
Step 6: Lashes
Again, this is optional. But for me, I like to use just a little bit of mascara to open up my eyes! It's the finishing touch to my "no makeup" look! The key here is waterproof. Believe me, if you know you're going to sweat, you don't want to wear regular mascara! Unless you're going for the raccoon look, then by all means go for it. But seeing as that's not what we're going for, I used the Maybelline Pumped Up Colossal Volum' Express Waterproof Mascara in the blackest black I could find. I have super dark hair, so I use black and only black mascara. Anyway, this mascara is great for a natural, full lash with that added waterproof protection. Again, it looks like you're just having a really good lash day (if that's even possible). Just lift and wiggle on your top lashes and also your outer bottom lashes to really open up your pretty eyes!
Step 7: Lips
Don't forget to protect those luscious lips! I will reiterate what I said in my Beach Essentials Post: people often forget about their lips! They are just as sensitive to the sun as the rest of your face, so make sure you wear a lip balm with SPF! This time, I used Sun Bum SPF 30 Pink Grapefruit Lip Balm. I just got this and I absoluteness love it. It smells and tastes good (if you accidentally lick it. I don't recommend purposely licking it) and it's greasy in a good way (if you can imagine that). It gives your lips a nice shine and you can tell easily when it wears off and when it's time to reapply! They also come in several different flavors!
And viola! The "no makeup" makeup look! The point here is to say, I look great even without makeup! Even though you are technically wearing some, it sure doesn't look like you are. Away with the haters who bash on girls who wear makeup to the beach, pool, or even the gym! I will not apologize for feeling more comfortable with makeup on and neither should you! Don't get me wrong, I have no problem with girls who don't wear makeup. Kudos to you! But for me personally, my skin gets yucky when I don't wear anything and then I'm self conscious about it all day. So I rock this look! Also, you can use this look for those days where you just want to do the minimum and still look put together and awake. Hell, use it whenever you want!
Regardless of when and where you try this look, I hope you like it and test it out for yourself! Remember, every step past that tinted moisturizer is additional so feel free to mix it up! If you do try it out, let me know! I want to know what you used, your variations, and how you liked it! Leave your posts and replies in the comments section! Thus, I leave you with the full product list below!! :)
XO, Briana
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Beach Essentials
As the last month of summer begins, us beach babies flock to the motherland to squeeze as many sun-soaked days in as we can before the leaves start to fall! So, a cute beach bag full of essentials is first on my packing list! Here is a compilation of some of my favorite beach essentials!
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1. The Cute Bag
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Any fashionista knows that you can't be caught anywhere without an adorable bag! Not even the beach. So if you haven't got your adorable beach bag already, you better go snag one before they're all gone! I got this Lilly Pulitzer You Gotta Regatta beach bag way back when there was still snow on the ground! I absolutely love it, not only because it is in my favorite Lilly print, but also because it's big enough to hold all of my loads of things! It's also plastic, so the sand rolls right off! Since I got this bag so long ago, it's no longer available on the Lilly Pulitzer site. However, here is the link to the same style bag if you really like it!
2. Beach Seating
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Some use a chair, some use a towel, and then there's me. I use this awesome beach mat by Tommy Hilfiger. Another thing that I've owned for quite some time. This mat is comfortable with a built in pillow and super convenient because it rolls up and has a handle! Bonus: it's adorable. Pink and green palm trees can do no wrong! Here is a link to a similar mat, but I've seen them around at places like Walmart and Target. I have also seen these Tommy Hilfiger ones up for bid on eBay!
3. Sunscreen!!!
SPF is sooo important when you are at the beach! I'm sure you've seen countless articles on the importance of sunscreen and that you have to reapply constantly, so I won't lecture you. What I will tell you is that this Sun Bum sunscreen in SPF 30 is to bomb diggity (am I showing my age yet?). As a mixed chick, my skin likes to be difficult; sometimes it's Puerto Rican and tans instantly. Other times it's German and burns instantly. So finding the right sunscreen to balance those out is essential. I've tried just about everything. After coming to the conclusion that I couldn't follow in my father's footsteps and use SPF 3 (jerk.), I settled on about a 30. That seemed to be enough to protect my skin, but still let me tan! Then I found Sun Bum. I'm not going to lie, I bought it because it was cute. But the slightly hefty price tag was totally worth it! I have been using it, sparingly, all summer and I absolutely love it. It smells delicious, and I've burnt ONE TIME. ONE! And that was my "first real sun of summer burn." So it's definitely worth a try! And the company also makes companion products, like lip balm and a face stick!
4. Lip Protection
And that brings me to my next item! Lip protection! People often forget that your sensitive lips need protection from the sun as well! So make sure you bring a lip balm or chapstick with SPF to protect your lips from those harmful UV rays! My favorite of the moment is Baby Lips by Maybelline. I'm in love with all of these lip balms, but make sure you grab the one with SPF when you're headed outside! Also, if you like a little more punch, top it off with a neutral lip gloss! I'm in love with Beach Party by Philosophy! It gives me just a little bit of shimmer, isn't goopy or sticky, and it's rightfully named!
5. A Good Read
Whether you enjoy a good sci-fi novel or a fashion magazine, don't forget to bring something with you to read! There's nothing like cracking open this months issue of Glamour with a backdrop of waves and sand! (Can you tell I'm dreaming of the beach? I live 10 minutes away and the weather has been awful!!) Pro tip: Don't expect to see your iPad, Nook, or Kindle out in the open sun. Believe me, I've tried and you can't see squat. The only one you might be able to use is the ones that are "paper white"
6. Perfect Beach Waves
Everyone is going gaga for beach waves, and I am guilty. Personally, I enjoy just throwing my hair in a bun and dunking my head in the ocean. Let dry and take out of the bun and viola! However, my hair already has somewhat of a natural beach wave texture (told you I was a mermaid) so for those of you who don't I have a handy dandy tool for you. My favorite beach spray that I've tried is Not Your Mother's Beach Babe spray! I've been using it for a couple of years and I love it. It really works and is super affordable! You can use it on wet or dry hair, and it always looks like you just stepped out of the ocean! Use it if you want to feel like Ariel!
7. Cheap-o Sunnies
One thing I will never ever understand is people bringing their super expensive sunglasses to the beach. One, your chances of losing them multiply by at least 100, two, you will get sand on them and they will get wet. Why tempt fate by even bringing them? I always bring a cheap pair that are still cute but that I won't have an emotional breakdown if they get messed up. I honestly don't even remember where I bought the ones in the picture, but I usually get them on sale at places like Charlotte Russe or Forever 21. They'd probably only last you a couple weeks anyway so who cares? These are super cute ones from F21 and they cost a little more than $5. #STEAL.
8. Electronic Companions
What are the two worst things that can happen to your phone at the beach...within reason. It gets wet/sandy or the battery dies. Well, I have two solutions for you. First is the waterproof pouch. You just stick your phone inside, lock the top and you're golden! Now, I wouldn't recommend taking it in the ocean with you, but if someone splashes you or you drop it in the sand, your phone is safe. (phew!). Some of them, like mine, come with a lanyard for extra paranoid protection services! Next is the solar charger. If you get a decent one that doesn't quit working after a few uses (lammeee.) then this is a great concept. Especially when you are directly in sunlight. Just plug your phone cord (or any other USB electronic cord) into the charger and then plug it in to your phone! Presto, chango, your phone is now charging! Now keep in mind, this works like other solar powered things: you have to let it suck up some sun first. Don't expect it to work if you've had it out for ten minutes. I assure you it won't. But this is great if you plan on being at the beach all day.
9. Lots of Hydration!
Whenever you plan on being in the sun for a long period of time, make sure you bring lots of fluids to keep you hydrated! Obviously, water is the best, but I'm difficult and don't particularly enjoy water. So the next best thing is tea! Even though some of them are high in sugar (calm down, you're on vacation.) they are delicious and made mostly of water anyway. The one I have here is a Marley's Mellow Mood Tea. I believe the flavor was the black tea with peach raspberry passion fruit, but I do remember for sure that it was delicious and very thirst quenching. I got mine at Lowe's supermarket, but you can probably get it at Walmart or other grocery stores. Also, don't forget to bring a koozie to keep that precious drink cold!! Nothing worse than hot tea or water or anything for that matter when you're already baking in the sun! Koozies keep those puppies cold for longer so you don't have to chug! I mean, how cute are these monogrammed ones from Haymarket Designs??
10. After Sun Protection
Whether you burn or not, it's essential that you moisturize after prolonged sun exposure. When you burn, you're more likely to put on aloe or something to sooth the burn. But don't overlook it when it comes to getting a tan! Being in the sun all day strips you skin of moisture, so after you get a shower make sure you use something to replenish that essential moisture. The leathery look is so not cool. My favorite thing to use is the Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion. Not only does it give you tons of moisture, but it also locks in your tan! Plus it also smells really, really good. (Can you tell I like to smell really good? Because I do.)
So those are my top ten (respectively) beach essentials! I'm sure I could go on forever with things I didn't mention (like headphones, but duh right?), but these are the ones that made the cut! What are the things you can't leave for the beach without? What's your favorite sunscreen or lip protection? Have you tried any of these things? I want to know your opinions and suggestions! Don't be shy, leave me a comment!!
1. The Cute Bag
Any fashionista knows that you can't be caught anywhere without an adorable bag! Not even the beach. So if you haven't got your adorable beach bag already, you better go snag one before they're all gone! I got this Lilly Pulitzer You Gotta Regatta beach bag way back when there was still snow on the ground! I absolutely love it, not only because it is in my favorite Lilly print, but also because it's big enough to hold all of my loads of things! It's also plastic, so the sand rolls right off! Since I got this bag so long ago, it's no longer available on the Lilly Pulitzer site. However, here is the link to the same style bag if you really like it!
2. Beach Seating
Some use a chair, some use a towel, and then there's me. I use this awesome beach mat by Tommy Hilfiger. Another thing that I've owned for quite some time. This mat is comfortable with a built in pillow and super convenient because it rolls up and has a handle! Bonus: it's adorable. Pink and green palm trees can do no wrong! Here is a link to a similar mat, but I've seen them around at places like Walmart and Target. I have also seen these Tommy Hilfiger ones up for bid on eBay!
3. Sunscreen!!!
SPF is sooo important when you are at the beach! I'm sure you've seen countless articles on the importance of sunscreen and that you have to reapply constantly, so I won't lecture you. What I will tell you is that this Sun Bum sunscreen in SPF 30 is to bomb diggity (am I showing my age yet?). As a mixed chick, my skin likes to be difficult; sometimes it's Puerto Rican and tans instantly. Other times it's German and burns instantly. So finding the right sunscreen to balance those out is essential. I've tried just about everything. After coming to the conclusion that I couldn't follow in my father's footsteps and use SPF 3 (jerk.), I settled on about a 30. That seemed to be enough to protect my skin, but still let me tan! Then I found Sun Bum. I'm not going to lie, I bought it because it was cute. But the slightly hefty price tag was totally worth it! I have been using it, sparingly, all summer and I absolutely love it. It smells delicious, and I've burnt ONE TIME. ONE! And that was my "first real sun of summer burn." So it's definitely worth a try! And the company also makes companion products, like lip balm and a face stick!
4. Lip Protection
And that brings me to my next item! Lip protection! People often forget that your sensitive lips need protection from the sun as well! So make sure you bring a lip balm or chapstick with SPF to protect your lips from those harmful UV rays! My favorite of the moment is Baby Lips by Maybelline. I'm in love with all of these lip balms, but make sure you grab the one with SPF when you're headed outside! Also, if you like a little more punch, top it off with a neutral lip gloss! I'm in love with Beach Party by Philosophy! It gives me just a little bit of shimmer, isn't goopy or sticky, and it's rightfully named!
Whether you enjoy a good sci-fi novel or a fashion magazine, don't forget to bring something with you to read! There's nothing like cracking open this months issue of Glamour with a backdrop of waves and sand! (Can you tell I'm dreaming of the beach? I live 10 minutes away and the weather has been awful!!) Pro tip: Don't expect to see your iPad, Nook, or Kindle out in the open sun. Believe me, I've tried and you can't see squat. The only one you might be able to use is the ones that are "paper white"
6. Perfect Beach Waves
Everyone is going gaga for beach waves, and I am guilty. Personally, I enjoy just throwing my hair in a bun and dunking my head in the ocean. Let dry and take out of the bun and viola! However, my hair already has somewhat of a natural beach wave texture (told you I was a mermaid) so for those of you who don't I have a handy dandy tool for you. My favorite beach spray that I've tried is Not Your Mother's Beach Babe spray! I've been using it for a couple of years and I love it. It really works and is super affordable! You can use it on wet or dry hair, and it always looks like you just stepped out of the ocean! Use it if you want to feel like Ariel!
One thing I will never ever understand is people bringing their super expensive sunglasses to the beach. One, your chances of losing them multiply by at least 100, two, you will get sand on them and they will get wet. Why tempt fate by even bringing them? I always bring a cheap pair that are still cute but that I won't have an emotional breakdown if they get messed up. I honestly don't even remember where I bought the ones in the picture, but I usually get them on sale at places like Charlotte Russe or Forever 21. They'd probably only last you a couple weeks anyway so who cares? These are super cute ones from F21 and they cost a little more than $5. #STEAL.
8. Electronic Companions
What are the two worst things that can happen to your phone at the beach...within reason. It gets wet/sandy or the battery dies. Well, I have two solutions for you. First is the waterproof pouch. You just stick your phone inside, lock the top and you're golden! Now, I wouldn't recommend taking it in the ocean with you, but if someone splashes you or you drop it in the sand, your phone is safe. (phew!). Some of them, like mine, come with a lanyard for extra paranoid protection services! Next is the solar charger. If you get a decent one that doesn't quit working after a few uses (lammeee.) then this is a great concept. Especially when you are directly in sunlight. Just plug your phone cord (or any other USB electronic cord) into the charger and then plug it in to your phone! Presto, chango, your phone is now charging! Now keep in mind, this works like other solar powered things: you have to let it suck up some sun first. Don't expect it to work if you've had it out for ten minutes. I assure you it won't. But this is great if you plan on being at the beach all day.
9. Lots of Hydration!
Whenever you plan on being in the sun for a long period of time, make sure you bring lots of fluids to keep you hydrated! Obviously, water is the best, but I'm difficult and don't particularly enjoy water. So the next best thing is tea! Even though some of them are high in sugar (calm down, you're on vacation.) they are delicious and made mostly of water anyway. The one I have here is a Marley's Mellow Mood Tea. I believe the flavor was the black tea with peach raspberry passion fruit, but I do remember for sure that it was delicious and very thirst quenching. I got mine at Lowe's supermarket, but you can probably get it at Walmart or other grocery stores. Also, don't forget to bring a koozie to keep that precious drink cold!! Nothing worse than hot tea or water or anything for that matter when you're already baking in the sun! Koozies keep those puppies cold for longer so you don't have to chug! I mean, how cute are these monogrammed ones from Haymarket Designs??
10. After Sun Protection
Whether you burn or not, it's essential that you moisturize after prolonged sun exposure. When you burn, you're more likely to put on aloe or something to sooth the burn. But don't overlook it when it comes to getting a tan! Being in the sun all day strips you skin of moisture, so after you get a shower make sure you use something to replenish that essential moisture. The leathery look is so not cool. My favorite thing to use is the Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion. Not only does it give you tons of moisture, but it also locks in your tan! Plus it also smells really, really good. (Can you tell I like to smell really good? Because I do.)
So those are my top ten (respectively) beach essentials! I'm sure I could go on forever with things I didn't mention (like headphones, but duh right?), but these are the ones that made the cut! What are the things you can't leave for the beach without? What's your favorite sunscreen or lip protection? Have you tried any of these things? I want to know your opinions and suggestions! Don't be shy, leave me a comment!!
XO, Briana
*I have not been compensated to market any of these products. These are my personal opinions.
**All photos linked to their source as well as where they can be purchased, unless otherwise noted.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Memorial Day Weekend
So this weekend I was extremely excited to finally go on a mini vacation! Thank. God. I've been so worn down lately from working all the time, I really needed to zen out and get a damn tan. And that I did. But my long awaited getaway wasn't just for me to have some R&R, but it was also Memorial Day, as you know, and more importantly my lovely mother's big 50th Birthday!! So it was quite the eventful time.
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Check out all of the items I wore (or similar) all put together on my WGWT profile!
We started it all off with the tedious, yet worth it, 10 hour drive from Philly to Myrtle Beach, SC. We stayed over at a hotel half way through, had our shitty continental breakfast, and continued on. When we finally arrived, we ran a few errands, which included a visit to the new supermarket down the street. I kid you not, this place was like Disney World. Definitely the most entertaining supermarket I've ever been to. Also with the most variety; I mean any cheese you could ever possibly want, they have it. I even found some pretty pineapples to Instagram for s's and g's. So after that adventure, we hung out for a bit, unpacked our stuff, and then our cousins joined in time for dinner.
Later that evening, I got to catch up with some of my good friends from my old job. We had a couple beers and lots of laughs at our local little hot spot, that I miss almost as much as I miss them. Ok I miss them wayyy more, Haha. It's nice to know there are people who will make time for you, even if it's last minutes. Those kind of friends are definite keepers.
The next day my family and I headed over to more of our family's house to celebrate my Mom's birthday and an early Memorial Day. We had lots of great food, went swimming in the pool, took a walk to the beach, and took lots of great photos! My mom really enjoyed it and told us it was a birthday she'd never forget. I won't soon forget it either.
In honor of the patriotic weekend, I wore my Memorial Day outfit early. I like to make sure everyone gets to see the outfits I strategically plan out, especially when I order a piece two days before wearing it just for that outfit. You know I'm dedicated.
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Pants: Old Navy | Tank Top: Old Navy | Denim Shirt: Gap | Shoes: Sperry | Necklace: Amazon | Earrings: American Eagle | Bracelets: Forever 21
Check out all of the items I wore (or similar) all put together on my WGWT profile!
On Sunday, we spent the entire day on the beach. This is my ideal place. You literally have to drag me out screaming to get me to leave. Ok, maybe I'm exaggerating a bit, but you get the idea. It was a beautiful day, warm with a nice breeze; just how I like it. We spent the time talking and reading and making fun of my cousin trying to do handstands in the ocean. (lol) After washing up, we went out to dinner and embarrassed my cousin (yep same one) for his birthday by getting the employees to sing to him.
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After a wonderful day with the family, I headed out for some more fun time with my friends. We headed out to the beach for a couple of beers and a good time, and that is exactly what we had. I won't write much about it, since it was one of those indescribable moments that are better left cherished in memory. It remaindered me that I am still young and in the prime years of my life, and I need to take advantage of that now before it's too late! It was a night I will never forget.
I went with the more than appropriate Bohemian vibe for Sunday's outfit. Seeing as I am already in my "summer mermaid" mood, I haven't washed my hair with anything more than salt water in days and there are still some braids left unattended to. And it still looked damn good. Rock on, beach waves. Side note: I switched the shoes before I went to the beach and grabbed a hoodie! I'm fashionable, but I'm not crazy! (ignore my cheesin' lol)
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Shorts: American Rag- Macy's | Shirt: Lucky Brand | Vest: American Eagle | Shoes: Ralph Lauren: Denim & Supply- Macy's | Necklace/Earrings: Lucky Brand | Arm Party: Lucky Brand, Rachel Roy, Alex & Ani, Express
Check out all of the items I wore (or similar) all put together on my WGWT profile!
After a memorable end to a wonderful long weekend, we packed our things and headed back to Philadelphia. It was definitely hard to leave. Going there this weekend was quite cleansing for me and I had time to just sit back and "contemplate life," for lack of a better phrase. I really feel more at home when I'm by the beach. When we got there I literally felt a weight fall off of me and I became totally relaxed and zen. I just want to feel that way all of the time! But for now, I'll have to wait and see where life takes me in the next few months.
Want to see more of my outfits or fashion questions I've answered? Check out my WGWT Profile here! Or you can go to http://whatgoeswiththis.com to ask me or my fellow bloggers a question!
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XO, Briana
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