More Make-Up HGs

Now that I'm back from NYC and have been using a select few products due to time, weather, and space constraints, I have a few makeup recommendations to pass along.

MAC tinted lipglass in Lust- the perfect everyday lipgloss. The website calls it a "soft muted pink," although I would describe it more like a terracotta-tinted rose. Nonetheless, it looks polished and natural, and photographs beautifully. Love that lipglasses aren't extremely sticky or gel-like, and last longer than basically all other types I own.

I had my nails and toes done this Saturday with OPI's Miami Beet (from the S/S '09 South Beach Collection). Sort of a dark pinky red, it looks great with my NW 15 skintone and seems to be a very wearable cream nail color for this time of year.

Last but not least, I REALLY missed L'Oreal's Vive Pro Glossy Curls mousse while I was away (since I wasn't able to bring such a large aerosol can in my carry-on). This stuff is incredible. My hair is quite straight and thick, although has started to get a slight wave to it recently. No product has ever allowed me to get beach waves quite like this one, and it doesn't leave my hair looking crunchy or soaked. Highly, highly recommend.

Simply Shabby Chic (& Cheap!)

Proof that home goods don't have to be expensive to look great and still be quality made? Target's Simply Shabby Chic line by Rachel Ashwell.

I own several of the furniture pieces (in addition to bedding, a couple lamps, and bathroom accessories), and they blend effortlessly with my more expensive stuff. They sort of finish my decor, and I can't argue with that (especially at a great deal). I actually make sure that I check out the Shabby Chic area during every Target visit I make, all in hopes that I'll find something new or on clearance. With Rachel Ashwell's original Shabby Chic line now gone due to bankruptcy, I'm so glad that this line is still available... it's quite possibly the best brand pairing that Target has ever introduced.

A few of my favorite things:
I'm so happy with the smocked duvet cover I bought for $80 back in the spring. It's soft, lightweight, and gives my room an ethereal, girly touch. (Not that the pink walls and cream trim aren't feminine enough! HA!)

The nightstand was the first piece I'd ever purchased from the Simply Shabby line. I can't remember how much I paid for it a few years ago, although it's $170 now. Such a great price for a solid, pretty table with cute "glass" knob pulls.

I bought a large table I use for a vanity (similar to the computer table shown above, except with a pullout drawer and glass hardware) in early 2008, and this is a piece that I literally use at least twice a day. I needed more counter space for all of my makeup and styling tools, so I replaced my real vanity with this table and haven't looked back since. Like the nightstand, it's sturdy, looks great, and has held up perfectly.