Best Holiday Outfits at H&M

H&M just opened up a new store in my city and it’s created a newfound obsession with them. I think in the past all of the stores I have visited have been too big and busy, whereas this one is much smaller and easier to look around.

Last week I was in a mad rush to get some new party outfits and I knew that I wanted outfits that were 1) stylish, 2) well fitting, and 3) a decent price. I’m tired of spending hundreds on a dress that I literally only wear once. I hit the mall with no idea of where to go or what I was going to end up with, but I walked out with bags full of exactly what I was looking for, all thanks to H&M!

Below I have shared my five favorite looks from H&M for the holidays, all of which are under $100 (and most under $50). A huge bonus is all of the outfits below are also perfect for New Years Eve!

(all prices are in Canadian dollars)

Short Sequinned Skirt – $29.99

 
Fitted Lace Dress – $49.99 (color below is burgundy, it also comes in black)

 

Jumpsuit w/Tie Belt – $79.99

Sequinned Velour Dress – $59.99 – (color below is black, it also comes in dark green). This is my personal favorite! I wore it to a party this past weekend.

 
Pleated Dress – $49.99 (color below is black, it also comes in dark teal)

 

 

Does anyone else have any H&M favorites this holiday season?

-SS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Latest Sephora Haul

Last week I was cleaning up my email inbox and I noticed something that I completely forgot about, a $100 Rouge Reward from Sephora that I hadn’t used yet! The Rouge Reward is a new option on the Rewards Baazar and allows Rouge members to redeem 2,500 points for a $100 coupon. There are some restrictions to using the reward including a 90 day expiration date and having to use the entire $100 at once. The change was made in August so my expiration date was coming up fast, which meant I was “rewarded” with a trip to Sephora this weekend. Can’t complain at that!

I used the coupon for some restocks and a couple of new products. I also went on a little Too Faced spree.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara – $31

I received this in a sample size months ago and it’s quickly become one of my favorite mascaras of all time. I’m obsessed with mascara, it’s the one makeup item that I need every single day and Too Faced does not disappoint. It gives killer volume, lengthens, separates, it’s completely smudge proof, doesn’t flake off, and with all Too Faced products, the packaging and name are to die for! Highly, highly recommend this mascara!

Too Faced Peach Mist Mattifying Setting Spray – Peaches and Cream Collection – $20 (mini version)

I got this in the mini version since it’s a brand new product to me and I wasn’t sure what to expect, I didn’t want to spend $40 on something if I wasn’t sure if it would work. Well, I kind of wish I went with the full sized version because I’m obsessed with this setting spray! Not only does it leave my skin looking flawless and oil free for hours, it smells like peaches and cream! I will absolutely be purchasing the full size bottle of this.

Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer – $21

This is a restock and I again picked up the mini version of this. It’s been my daily primer for about 2 years now and I wanted a travel sized tube. This primer is infused with coconut oil, which leaves your face looking hydrated and radiant. My makeup always goes on so smooth when I use this primer!

Fenty Beauty Match Stix Matte Skinstick (I got the shade Bamboo)- $31

This is the last restock for me from this haul. A few months ago I wandered into Sephora looking for a new cover-up and I was recommended to try Fenty. I haven’t looked back! These skinsticks are amazing! Full coverage, super blendable, matte, long-wearing, and available in 20 shades. I didn’t think anything would ever come close to my beloved Boi-ing concealer, but Fenty achieved it.

Sephora Collection Tinted Self-Tanning Body Mist – $23

I’m always on the lookout for new self-tanning products. I love how I look and feel with a little bit of a tan, but want to achieve that look safely. So far I have only used this once and I was super impressed with the application and the slight glow I had the next day from it. Next time I’ll apply a little more, I have naturally olive skin so I can usually handle going a little darker. To apply I exfoliated in the shower, moisturized, let the moisturizer dry and then got back into the shower and sprayed my entire body (including face). The mist comes out slightly tinted so you can see where you are applying it, and the entire process took no longer than 15 minutes. It also dried quickly. I think it’s a great slightly more affordable option to some of the other self-tanners out there if you are looking for a subtle winter glow!

Have any of you tried any of the products above?

-SS

What’s On My Christmas List This Year

With Christmas approaching faster than ever, I’m getting asked for my Christmas list. Yes, I’m a professional in my mid 30’s and I still provide a list! The truth is that I would be happy with just spending some time relaxing with loved ones. I love everything about this season and one of my favorite things is when my husband and I have our annual Christmas date night where we dress up and go to a nice restaurant. I would honestly be happy with just that! But for those who need something more tangible, this is what I’m wishing for this year:

 

Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb Hair Mist – $65

If you have been following my blog for a while you will know that Flowerbomb is one of my favorite perfumes, so you can imagine my excitement when I saw that they make a hair mist with the same scent. I’m new to the hair mist party but I have a feeling I’m going to love it.

Barefoot Dreams Blanket – approx. $246 Canadian

The dream in the brand name is probably more likely where this blanket will be for me, but I can wish for it though right?! I wasn’t sure what the hype was with this blanket given the cost of it… until I tried it in store. It’s so incredibly soft and cozy that I keep thinking about it.

Just about anything from Lush

Bath bombs, lip scrubs, shower gels, massage bars, bubble bars, I love it all! Anything from Lush will make me deliriously happy. When all else fails when it comes to shopping for me, go with Lush.

 

 

Gift Cards – Nordstrom/Aritzia/Sephora

Gift cards are not given the credit they deserve. When you get a gift card for someone you’re not only giving them the freedom to pick out their own gift, you’re giving them the gift of a trip to their favorite store. How can you go wrong?! Answer: you can’t.

 

Does anyone else have a Christmas list? What are you hoping for?

-SS

Sephora Rouge Sale Haul Nov 2018

Am I the only one who feels like Sephora has had way more sales than usual this year? I mean, I’m not complaining! Although my bank account I’m sure is not too thrilled. If you haven’t heard, Sephora is currently having their Rouge Holiday Event, which is 20% off everything in store for Rouge members. The sale ran last weekend Oct 26-29 and this weekend Nov 2-5. This is likely their last 20% off event of the year so I made sure I took advantage.

In all honestly there wasn’t a ton of things that I needed to get since I bought so much over the summer, but I can’t resist Sephora so I picked up some restocks and of course a few little treats!

Take a peek at my haul below and look for reviews of all products coming soon!

Makeup:

Skincare:

Hair and Body:

Free samples for Rouge members during the sale:

There’s still 2 days left of the sale (ends at midnight on Nov 5) so make sure you don’t miss out!

-SS

My Favorite Sephora Holiday 2018 Gift Sets

It’s November, and you know what that means?! I can officially start talking about Christmas! I feel as though I have to bite my tongue all October and then the second Halloween is over, it’s my time.

One of the things that I love to do each year is browse the holiday gift sets that stores put out, and which better store than to do this at than Sephora?! I’ve been keeping an eye on the Sephora holiday gift sets since September and I have rounded up my favorites below:

 

Sephora Favorites Best Hair Kit Ever – $32 ($80 value)

If you haven’t tried a Sephora Favorites kit yet, you have no idea what you’re missing out on. This kit comes with 8 products in a cute rose gold makeup bag. The products are suitable for all hair types and it’s a great way to try out new things.

 

Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Carnaval Magic – $49

 

There’s a reason why this cream is a cult favorite! This set comes with two tubs of the infamous Bum Bum cream, the body mist and my personal favorite, the lip balm. You do not want to miss out on this!

L’Occitane Holiday Almond Ornament – $14

I love gifts that can actually be hung on the tree and Sephora never disappoints in bringing out a new one each year. This one contains some of my favorite products from L’Occitane and I can’t wait to put it on my tree! Bonus tip – the almond oil works great for shaving your legs!

 

Too Faced Under The Christmas Tree Breakaway Face & Eye Set – $52 ($250 value)

Run to Sephora to pick this one up because I guarantee it won’t last! It comes with two eyeshadow palettes (I adore Too Faced eyeshadows!), a face palette with highligher/bronzer/brush, and a Better Than Sex mascara. This is a “one for you, one for me” kind of purchase!

 

Peter Thomas Roth Mask Frenzy – $95

Peter Thomas Roth masks are amazing, but they can get pricey. This gift set is a great way to try out the brands best selling masks without the cost commitment of purchasing separately. It comes with Irish Moor Mud Purifying Black Mask, Hungarian Thermal Water Mineral-Rich Atomic Heat Mask, 24K Gold Mask Pure Luxury Lift & Firm Mask, Rose Stem Cell Bio-Repair Gel Mask, Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer, Cucumber Gel Mask Extreme De-Tox™ Hydrator. I suspect this one won’t last long either!

Do you have any you would like to share?

-SS

Fave Brand Alert: Kristin Ess

Whenever I find a new brand I love, I can’t wait to come here and share it with you guys. I’m especially excited about this one because it’s an inexpensive drug store available brand! The brand I’m here to talk about today is Kristin Ess.

 

 

 

Kristin Ess describes their line as an affordable luxury haircare brand, and they are hitting it out of the park! The products were created by Kristin Ess herself who is a hairdresser with over 2 decades of experience. Trust me, her experience shows! Every product I have used so far has left my hair feeling incredibly soft, manageable and shiny. Oh, did I mention that all of her products smell absolutely incredible and in colors like blush, light grey and black, these are bottles that you want to display! No hiding away these for me.

 

It’s tough for me to pick a favorite, but if I had to, I’d go with the The One Purple Shampoo and Conditioner. Sulfate and paraben free, they are good for the environment and my hair extensions. My hair has a natural orange-y tint to it so a good purple shampoo and conditioner is a must. The One Purple Shampoo and Conditioner make sure that my hair stays brass free and soft.

 

The Style Assist Blow Dry Mist is a close second in terms of favorites. I need this like I need air. I mean, who doesn’t need something that not only cuts down on drying time, but also detangles and adds shine?! I hate drying my hair because I’m so impatient so I have tried many blow dry mists and trust me, this one works!

Another favorite is the Soft Shine Beach Wave Spray. Again, I’ve tried many beach wave products and most of the time they contain salt leaving your hair feeling stiff and sticky. Not this one! Like all Kristin Ess products, it delivers exactly waht the label says and you are left with soft, shiny beachy waves.

If you are looking for something fun, you don’t want to miss out on the Rose Gold Temporary Tint. You spray this on wet hair in the shower and the result is a subtle rose gold tint throughout your hair that lasts from 1-3 shampoos.

There are SO many different products in this line so make sure you check out the site to see what else is available. I still haven’t tried everything from Kristin Ess, but I’m slowly getting there and I can’t wait to try some more!

 

Kristin Ess products are available in Target stores in the US and online at well.ca in Canada. Everything is less than $20.

 

Has anyone else tried Kristin Ess? What did you think?

-SS

 

My Top 3 Drugstore Must Haves

If you have followed my blog for any amount of time I’m sure you have quickly learned that I’m a Sephora addict. I’m also a Shoppers Drug Mart  and well.ca (or Walgreens, CVS and Boots, depending on which country I’m in) addict. Below I have shared my top three drugstore must-haves:

 

Neutrogena All-In-One Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes – $13

There’s a reason why makeup artists don’t go anywhere without these wipes, nothing takes off my makeup better than them. You can use them to effectively remove all makeup including waterproof eye makeup and my skin always feels squeaky clean after using them. Inexpensive and efficient, what more do we need?!

Batiste Dry Shampoo – $10.49 (usually around $7 on sale)

This stuff is amazing! I have tried so many other dry shampoos and nothing compares to the OG. I put a couple of sprays in my hair before bed and I wake up in the morning with refreshed hair. I’m able to go 3-4 days without washing thanks to my trusty Batisse! I use the ones for dark hair since I have dark roots, but I really like the Original one too.

 

Jergens Natural Glow – $12.99

I have posted about this many times and I’m sure I will continue to over and over. I have tried so many different self tanners and while there are some that I’m a huge fan of, nothing still compares to my Natural Glow. It really does give you a natural looking tan and the best part is that because it’s gradual, you don’t have to worry about streaking. I will buy this forever!

What are your favorite drug store products?

-SS

Fall 2018 Fashion Shopping List

I’m still not ready to embrace Fall (and I don’t think I ever will be), but I am able to face up to the need for a new wardrobe. I mean, who doesn’t want that?!

Since our warm seasons are so short I find that I usually have a lot of items leftover from the previous year that I can wear so I find that for spring and summer my shopping list isn’t too crazy. But, when fall rolls around my list is always huge! I find that since I wore all of my pants/sweaters/blazers so much last year and for so long, I’m ready for some new stuff!

Here is what’s on my list for this season:

Watch this space for ideas on how to style the items below!

 

Black jeans. My current pair is getting really old and I need new ones. I love the versatility of black jeans, you can pair them with a silk cami and pumps for a dressier look or a sweater and sneakers when you are feeling more casual.

Casual joggers. I am becoming so obsessed with joggers lately. I bought two pairs from Aritzia earlier this year and I wear them All. The. Time. I’m starting to feel over wearing leggings at home so I’m really looking for a cute comfy pair for lounging around.

Over the knee boots. These have been kind of on my list for years, but I always hesitate because are they are so not the usual style for this city, and even though I always feel like a million dollars when I try them on, I always think that people are judging me for being over 30 and wearing them. Well this year, I don’t care, I’m getting my boots!

Gucci belt. One splurge per season is fine, right!?

Graphic t shirt/s. I’m really loving the look of jeans with a graphic t shirt (preferably a band shirt), or with a leather pencil skirt (which I have) and I have decided that I need them all.

Off white sweater dress. How cute would this look with the Gucci belt *insert winking emoji here*

White button down shirt. Super versatile, goes with everything and the white will brighten up my usually depressingly dark fall/winter style.

Silk duster/kimono in blush or champagne. I have become quite the kimono/duster collector lately and I see no signs of slowing down. I love how they can elevate an otherwise basic outfit into something more striking. I would love to find a silk one in either blush or champagne!

Quality white t shirt/s. This is almost always on my list! If anyone has any that are not too big, not too tight and not see through I would be forever indebted to you!

Dark denim jacket. In the warmer months I wear my denim jacket to death and often I plan my outfits around it. I don’t really want to give that up for the other 8 months out of the year so I thought if I add a darker one it would give me the same look but with a fall/winter spin.

Olive green bomber jacket. I put this on here because I already bought one and I am in love with it. Sure, I feel like Tom Cruise when I wear it with my aviators but I don’t even care, it’s the perfect fall jacket.

Slouchy off the shoulder sweaters in a chunky knit (can’t wait to pair these with white jeans!). I’m thinking taupe, white, or grey would be cute.

Dark green and black plaid shirt. I’m not a fan of plaid at all, but I saw a picture on Pinterest of a dark green and black plaid shirt with a pencil skirt and became obsessed with the look. So, this year I’m hopefully going to add one to my wardrobe.

Skirts. Usually I don’t add skirts to my fall and winter lists because our weather October-May is brutal and wearing a skirt is just, well, kinda dumb. But this year I think I want to live on the edge a little and sacrifice warmth for fashion. I’m loving these 90’s style ones (and yes, I did wear these styles the first time around!)

 

What are you guys looking for this season?

-SS

 

 

FabFitFun Fall 2018

You know that a new season is on the horizon when it’s FabFitFun time again! The Fall box completely took me by surprise this year by arriving about 3 weeks earlier than normal. A great thing to come home to after a somewhat challenging day.

 

As usual, I tore into the box as soon as it arrived leaving me with little opportunity to take some good pictures, but I just couldn’t wait to see what I got and start using everything.

 

All subscribers receive the following:

• Glam Glow Bubble sheet masks – you actually get 2 of these but I used one right away.
• Beautyblender – I was SO excited to see this in my box. I’ve been a big BB fan for a while now and I needed a new one
• Simply Whimsical tea towels – they’re grey and white, which is just perfect for my decor!
• Skin & Co Roma Blue in Capri shower gel – this smells SO fresh, and I needed a new shower gel
• Luna Rica Cashew Butter Fruit & Nut Bar in salted caramel nut – this is a free sponsored item – I haven’t tried this yet but it looks delicious!

The following 3 items are choice items for all members:

• Choice #1: Vince Camuto tote bag or Crown Pro makeup brush set – Despite being a huge Vince Camuto fan, I went with the makeup brushes. I just didn’t need a tote bag and I always need makeup brushes
  

  
• Choice #2: Alfred French Press or Teapot – I went with the french press because I already have a teapot and I have never used a french press. I haven’t tried it out yet but I’m excited to!
  

  
• Choice #3: Catherine Malandrino umbrella (in white or red), or Cylo Cobra Wireless Earbuds (in white or black) – I desperately needed an umbrella especially with our upcoming trip to England so this was a no brainer for me.
  

  

Finally, the following are choice items for Annual subscribers. Seasonal subscribers will be surprised:

• Choice #4: Farmacy Dew It All Total eye cream, Touch in Sol Metallist Liquid Foil Lipstick Duo in “Penny”, or Cuccio Somatology Yogahhh! Bath Detox. I received the lipstick
  

  

  
• Choice #5: Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant, Grown Alchemist Hydra-Repair Day Cream, or Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser. I received the exfoliant.
  

  

  

If you are having a hard time deciding on which choice you would like, all members have the option of having FabFitFun pick for them.

 

The Fall box is not quite sold out yet so to grab one for yourself (or for a gift) head to FabFitFun to sign up!  They also offer special edition Editor’s Boxes once the seasonal ones are sold out. If you sign up through my link you receive $10 off your first box 🙂

-SS

2018 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – My Top Picks

If you are following any fashion bloggers/Influencers on Instagram right now I’m sure you have already heard all about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. And I’m here to tell you a little more about it! This is my absolute favorite sale and I look forward to it all year.

 

This is not your typical sale. You won’t find anything that has been on sale before, or that is out of season. Every July, Nordstrom releases a bunch of items from their Fall lineup and then marks it all down for about 3 weeks giving you ridiculous savings! It’s a great way to start stocking up for Fall (my least favorite F word). After the sale ends all of the items go back to their regular pricing, so if you see something you like you want to make sure you get it during the sale! There is nothing worse in the shopping world than missing out on a great sale price, and then having to purchase at full price. Also, these items sell out fast so don’t wait if you see something you like!

 

There are a few dates to be aware of with this sale:

• July 12th: early access online and in US stores for Nordstrom credit card holders
• July 17th: early access in Canadian stores for Nordstrom credit card holders (why is everything in Canada always so far behind?!)
• July 20th: sale opens to the public
• August 5th: sale ends. This is also my birthday!

 

I’m sharing some of my favorite items from the sale so far and noting the sale price and after sale price. All prices are in Canadian dollars, as a Canadian resident I can’t access US pricing on the website.

 

BP Raw Edge Scoop Neck Tee (comes in 6 colors and 6 sizes)
Sale price: $26.05
After sale price: $39.97

BP Lace Trim Satin Camisole (comes in 4 colors and 7 sizes:
Sale price: $31.47
After sale price: $48.24

BP Twist Front Sweater (comes in 2 colors and 7 sizes)
Sale price: $43.97
After sale price: $67.54

 

Madewell Ryder Cardigan (comes in 4 colors and 6 sizes)
Sale price; $89.46
After sale price: $135.08

Vince Camuto Pevista Bootie (comes in 3 colors and available in sizes 4-13)
Sale price: $137.70
After sale price: $206.69

Halogen Ribbed Casmere Vest (comes in 4 colors and one size fits all)
Sale price: $136.62
After sale price: $205.38

 

BP Textured Stitch V Neck Pullover (comes in 6 colors and 6 sizes – size up to wear off the shoulder)
Sale price: $35.70
After sale price: $53.76

BP Washed Moto Leggings (comes in 2 colors and 6 sizes – I also have these in green from the Anniversary Sale a couple of years ago, I’m still wearing them)
Sale price: $35.70
After sale price: $53.76

The Rivington Ripped Straight Leg Jeans (available in 7 sizes)
Sale price: $89.46
After sale price: $135.04

 

Vince Alora Mule (comes in 2 colors and sizes 5-11)
Sale price: $268.65
After sale price: $406.63

MAC Little Lip Nude Lip Duo (Anniversary Sale exclusive!)
Sale price: $23.43
After sale price: N/A

Charlotte Tilbury Pretty Glowing Skin Palette (Anniversary Sale exclusive!)
Sale price: $103.38
After sale price: N/A

Barefoot Dreams In The Wild Throw (comes in 4 colors)
Sale price: $165.27
After sale price: $248.11

Slip^™ for beauty sleep Slip Silk^™ Pure Silk Queen Pillowcases (one color – Anniversary Sale exclusive!)
Sale price: $151.63
After sale price: N/A

We are only one day into the early access and I think I already have a ton of favorites! I will do another roundup towards the end of the sale. Has anyone else checked out the Anniversary Sale yet? I’d love to hear about it!

-SS