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redrhinestone
So I really want to start off this post with some confessions. Over the past few years I have not taken very good care of my hair. With color, bleach, stripping of color, color, bleach, and repeat. My endless desire to change my hair has really brought damage to it over the years. This year I have really focused on ways to pamper my hair and give it some much needed TLC, so when David Douglas Beauty reached out, I of course welcomed the opportunity to try out their product line!
David Douglas Beauty is a professional hair care company founded in 2002, offering products made with high quality ingredients and best of all, never tests on animals. So lets get started with my review!
The products I have tested on my hair include:
- Violet Toning Shampoo
- Violet Toning Sealer
- Keratin Infused Shampoo
- Keratin Infused Conditioner
- Spray Straight
- Keratin Infused Serum
Packaging website and ordering
The packaging is sleek and minimalist, perfect in my opinion for hair products, that way the focus is on what is inside! The website is beautiful, and is neatly categorized by Product Type, Hair Treatment, and Hair Concerns. This makes it super easy to find exactly what you are looking for. As for shipment, my order came quickly and everything arrived safely. Each item was securely sealed with no leaks or damages.
Violet Products
The violet shampoo is a deep shade of purple and has similar texture to other violet shampoos I have tried. The benefits of this particular brand are the quality of ingredients and, for me the fact the I don’t have to sacrifice feel for color. Normally when I use color toning shampoos my hair is left feeling brittle and dry on the ends. That is simply not the case with this violet shampoo. My hair felt clean and workable. There is no heavy leftover residue, just soft clean hair that looks brighter and a cooler shade of blonde even after one use!
For the sealer, the shade is a pastel purple and has what appear to be sparkles in the formula. You apply to towel dried hair, let it sit for a few minutes then rinse with cool water. I really like this product! It sort of feels like a conditioner but not as heavy and doesn’t leave hair weighed down. You have the option to leave it in longer based on the shade you are trying to achieve, which is really cool, and again, I like this product because it is not over drying of harsh. – best of all it does not stain my fingers!
Over the next few uses of the violet products, I have noticed my hair has felt softer as well as brighter. When you have bleached hair, it can often feel very dry especially if you wash it too often. Since using these two products I have noticed that I can extend the life of my hair between washes, as it does not produce as much oil at my scalp, so that I can go 2.5 days between washes versus everyday. This process is much healthier on hair so I am very pleased with this product and its payoff so far.
I have been using these two products as my regular routine to keep my hair shiny and its best shade of blonde.
My New Straight Hair Regimen
Now these products are the real game changer for me. I have always struggled to manage straight hair. With the Houston humidity, and the fact that I have curly/wavy hair, even with the best straightener I end up with a frizzy mess every time! With the Keratin infused products, and spray straight I am able to achieve my straightest hair that lasts!
Keratin Infused Shampoo and Conditioner
On days when I want to straighten my hair I have been using the keratin products. The formula is thick and provides a rich lather. My hair is left feeling clean and ready for styling.
Styling Products
Following the wash, I towel dry my hair and apply the Keratin Infused Serum then blow dry. The serum is by far my favorite smelling product, seriously it smells amazing! It is not too oily or sticky and doesn’t leave my hair greasy. To finish off, I apply the spray straight. This is seriously the miracle product when it comes to keeping my hair straight. It does slightly change the texture of my hair…meaning you can tell there is product in it, but it looks natural and reduces frizziness which keeps my hair tamed in the humidity. Basically I would like to know where this product has been all my life?! 😀
To Sum It Up
My overall thoughts on the David Douglas brand is the products are very high quality and perform as described. They definitely surpassed my expectations, and I would recommend them to anyone looking to improve their blonde, combat frizziness, or just want to enhance the appearance of their hair! David Douglas the go-to for it all!
Here is a great example of my results! The left image is what happens to my hair is the humidity, before I had David Douglas products, the right image is how my hair withstands the heat and humidity with David Douglas products!
As fall starts to roll in, there are certain summer trends that will be transitioning through with me. That is, tiered ruffles and embroidery. I am sure tassel earrings will come along as well, but today I am spotlighting a great clutch and an amazing top!
To start things off, lets chat about this statement top from Shein. I actually purchased it on Amazon and got it in 2 days through Prime! The material of this piece is heavy, making it a bit more dressy and perfect for any occasion. What makes this top so special is the sleeves. The ruffled tier design is so edgy and fun! This is a trend that I was a bit late to jump on, but am really excited about. Wearing a top like this is just so different!
Pairings
With the neckline being rather bare, I decided to pair this beautiful top with a sparkling statement piece from Charming Charlie. This necklace is so beautiful and has such intricate detailing! It really adds a special touch to this top and completes the look!
Since there is a lot going on with the top, I chose dark wash skinny jeans and heels to streamline the look, and balance out all of the details. And to add that cherry on top finish, I added this amazing clutch my Steven by Steve Madden. Seriously, isn’t it fun?! The bright color embroidery is what drew me in, along with the design and the tassel accents! I feel like I am carrying a art piece when I take this bag out. Its just so unique!
So to wrap up this look, I decided to bring together 3 bold pieces, which on their own can make a statement, but all together create a complete look! Since everything is solid and only my clutch has a print it is easy to add multiple statements to one look!
Since my collaboration with SaraBoo, I seriously cannot stop wearing these pieces! Every item fits beautifully and the quality is really great for the price. This particular piece is a tropical print romper. The material is very thin, perfect for summer and secures with a back zipper and neck tie. Everything about the fit and print screams summer fun! If you are in the market for great vacation wear then look no further than SaraBoo.
I absolutely love the sleeve length and short style of this romper. There are subtle embroidered features and pleat detailing that really make this piece a show stopper. It is a one and done ensemble, where all you need is accessories to finish it off, perfect for packing!
I decided to pair this piece with my signature straw fedora, Baublebar, Elaine Turner, and Kendra Scott gold-tone layering necklaces, this fun orange clutch from Henri Bendel, (similar) and bold mirrored sunnies from Sam Moon.
I wore this ensemble to a fun day of shopping at Silver Street Studios followed by a party at Elaine Turner and was able to stay comfortable and cute all day!
If you are looking for stand out summer garments, especially for travel, check out SaraBoo!
If there is one piece of clothing everyone needs in their wardrobe, it is a chambray top. This is honestly one of the most versatile and transitional pieces around! From shorts in the summer to layered under sweaters in the winter, this piece will carry you through the seasons. And, another thing that makes this top a must, is no matter your style, you can work chambray into your wardrobe.
To show you just how versatile it can be, I have teamed up with Kristine from Kristines Kalidoscope, and Lan from Thelanline to give you three different style options that you can wear now!
Each of us will be sharing their outfit breakdown on their blog, so check it out! Here I will be sharing my look, enjoy!
So I decided to go with a printed pant and a fall transition palette. The tonal green of the camo print (similar) really makes the blue of the chambray pop! I wanted a more oversized fit so I purchased this top in a medium. The relaxed fit gives this a more casual feel, perfect for pairing with printed jeans and sneakers.
Speaking of sneakers, I chose faux suede mesh inspired sneakers from MIA and a cognac messenger bag to complete the look. The warm tones blend well together and give this look a finished touch. Once the weather cools I would layer a tan sweater over the chambray and add gold tone accessories to transform the look.
For some shoe inspo, here is a closeup of our selections. As you can see the color options are limitless with chambray, as well as the level of dressiness you want to take it!
So here’s to having fun the last few days of summer, and enjoy creating unique ensembles with chambray!
When I think of a luaus or Hawaiian print my first thoughts are of those terrifyingly tacky shirts people wear on vacation. You know… those vacation shirts that should not exist? Yea, those! Luckily there is a fabulous alternative to the Hawaiian print that has received such a bad rap!
Enter this beautiful dress from SaraBoo! The color palette is the first thing that really takes this print to the luxe level. And with the added cut-outs and shift silhouette, this dress is the ultimate representation of vacationing at its best!
Seriously though this is the perfect summer dress for vacation or any daytime event! The material is lightweight and easy to pack! It is unlined but does not require a slip. I decided to pair this piece with my favorite Mirina Collections necklace, my ceramic white Mickey Mouse watch(I was really channeling vaca vibes) and sparkling sandals from Olivia Miller. The silver accessories really pop against this print and complete the look perfectly.
So before your next vacation ditch that campy Hawaiian print top and get your hands on this fabulous dress from SaraBoo! Your photo reel will thank you!
Okay guys, I’ve got to be honest here, I have never been a fan of wearing the color yellow. It just isn’t something that jumps out at me. Don’t get me wrong, as a color it is great! So sunny and cheery. But when it comes to apparel I am just not attracted to it… that is, until now!
Something has changed for me when it comes to yellow. I am really liking the shades of that have been popping up this season and how flattering they are with even the palest of skin tones!
A perfect example, is this dress is from The White Wolf Boutique. The yellow is perfect and sleeve detail is so delicate and gorgeous! I selected this dress in a size medium and was very pleased with the fit. The small would have also fit me, but in this particular style, I was looking for a more relaxed fit. The White Wolf Boutique offers beautiful casual appeal of great quality and price! Check them out for great all weekend tops and accessories.
To style this look I decided to pair it with wedges from Target, delicate layering necklaces from Elaine Turner, and Kendra Scott, and a fun cheetah print wallet for Juicy Couture.
Yellow is really great for pairing with gold tone accessories, cheetah print or even turquoise!
So cheers to yellow, and trying new color palettes this season!
I love getting my hands on a terrific dress any chance I can. So when something like this amazing piece comes my way, you can’t help but celebrate! This is one of those pieces that almost transforms you! Immediately I felt confident and gorgeous, ready to step out and conquer my day. …I wish all my clothing had those powers!
So this dress is extremely lightweight and has a full button front. The high-low hem is perfect for finding wind and creating a gorgeous flowing effect. I paired this piece with a neon clutch from Nine West and woven stacked heels from Madden Girl. Together, these simple accessories pull the tonal hues from the floral print, giving the colors an excellent pop!
I received this dress from Borrowed by Design, if you haven’t heard of them, they are an online retailer that offers rental and purchasable dresses where a portion of the proceeds are donated to charitable causes. Check them out for gorgeous trendy pieces as well as formals!
Now that I have had the A Perfect World line for over a month, and have been using a few of the products in my daily routine, I wanted to provide you all with a quick review of the products I love and what results I have actually seen from using them on a daily basis!
So the 4 products I will be reviewing include:
Origins A Perfect World Age Defense Eye Cream with SPF 20
Origins A Perfect World Age Defense Skin Guardian
Origins A Perfect World Age Defense Treatment Lotion with White Tea
Origins A Perfect World Antioxidant Cleanser with White Tea
I really wanted to share my opinion with you after continuous use of the products, and specifically the changes I have seen in my skin over the past month.
So lets start with the Treatment Lotion with White Tea. I have been using this product in the morning when I wake up and at night before bed. The scent is consistent with the rest of the line, and since it is alcohol-free it doesn’t irritate or burn the skin, eye area, or nose. I apply this product to a cotton ball and glide it across my face. The product is cool and tightens my pores effortlessly. It leaves skin feeling clean with a slight tightening sensation.
Once the Treatment Lotion has dried, I apply the Skin Guardian. This product is by far my favorite from the line. The texture is like a gel, and leaves my skin feeling like silk! I use 1.5 pumps and disperse the product over my face evenly. I can definitely tell a difference in my skin overnight from this product. My skin is softer and smoother. In the mornings it makes makeup application so simple and gives me a “primed” canvas to smoothly apply my liquid foundation.
At night when I shower, I use the Antioxidant Cleanser with White Tea. This creamy cleanser removes all dirt and make up from my face, leaving my skin feeling squeaky clean, yet not over dried. I am prone to breakouts and redness but I have noticed since I have started using this product, and this line in general, my skin has balanced out and I create less oil on my forehead, my redness has subsided, and uneven texture and breakouts are minimal – if even at all! If you are thinking of trying out this line, I would recommend purchasing this product first.
I have been finding the eye cream most valuable on days I decide not to wear makeup. It lightens the area under my eyes a slight bit while hydrating. Plus, the added bonus of the sunscreen means I am protected while letting my skin breathe.
My regimen:
AM: Treatment Lotion with White Tea – Skin Guardian – Eye cream
PM: Antioxidant Cleanser with White Tea – Treatment Lotion with White Tea – Skin Guardian
If you are debating on trying out the collection, I highly recommend it for breakout prone skin, prone to t-zone oiliness, redness, and even if you just want something with anti-aging properties. This line has truly worked wonders on my skin, and I love that I can feel good about the product that I am using because it is from Origins!
I hope you have found this review helpful, and will give this line a try!
When I think of plaid, usually fall and winter come to mind, but I recently received this dress from Shein, and have changed my perception! This white plaid t-shirt dress is lightweight and short sleeved, making it the perfect choice for the summer months. I also think it is a perfect back to school piece!
I have paired this lightweight dress with ankle booties and a fun navy hat. With the Houston heat at its peak, I find myself reaching for hats pretty frequently to protect my face and hair from the harsh sun rays. Not to mention, hats totally add a special finishing touch to any look!
This dress is unlined so I recommend wearing a slip with it, or shapewear for a smooth finish. The length is perfect for a more conservative look and the silhouette screams fun! The best part of all is this dress is only $14.00! At that price I think it is a must for summer and early fall!
So this month marks one year since I started blogging. That’s right, one whole year! Where did the time go? I started blogging and sharing my interest for fashion, travel and beauty through Instagram for so many reasons; to face my fear of the unknown, of being shy, and to create an outlet for fun where I could chat with others about things I am passionate about! Over the past year I have grown immensely as a person, and have learned so many things about myself, as well as this business, I did not know before. So in celebration of reaching this one-year milestone, I wanted to share some of my most favorite collaborations, places I have traveled, and amazing people I have met along the way! I also wanted to take this time to share some tips, for anyone who is thinking about entering the vast world of blogging…the things I think I would have liked to know one year ago, so enjoy!
Before I start…
A special shout out to Sarah-Jane of SarahJaneReign! She is a big reason I finally took the plunge to start my blog! I was really nervous to start this journey, of blogging and sharing on Instagram, (even though I had always wanted an outlet to share my interest and thoughts) I just didn’t know where to start. She assisted in showing me that it is totally possible and if I wanted to make it happen, I could! She gave me the nudge I needed to start my blogging adventure, and I slowly paved my way to where I am today! I gratefully thank her for believing in me so that I could, in turn, believe in myself. Giving me the boost of confidence to take the leap, and make it happen!
So here it is! My First Year Highlight Reel! I decided the best way for me to commemorate this day would be with a reflection of the past year, and where it has taken me. I have shared three photo galleries spanning the past year through favorite collabs, places I have traveled, and the wonderful people I have met along the way. From the bottom of my heart I want to thank everyone who has come along and shared this journey with me. Your support, guidance and wonderful words have paved the way, and have given me a place to truly be myself and fulfill my dreams.
To start things off, here is a gallery of a few of my favorite partnerships and collabs that I was so lucky to take part in this past year. Partnering with companies and reviewing their products is what being a blogger is all about. These opportunities are what help you to grow and curate content. Which is why I want to say a special thank you to all companies I have collaborated with, for taking a chance on me and trusting me to represent their brand and products. It is always a huge privilege, and I am so thankful for each and every partnership.
Featuring: Coach, Luca-Love, Jord, Heavenly Organics, Origins, Shein, Panda, Coola Suncare, SaraBoo, Smile Brilliant, Mirina Collections
Here is a quick look back on a few places I traveled to this past year, and was able to share with you all through my blogging experience!
And last but certainly not least, my fellow bloggers! These ladies motivate me daily and seriously I am so blessed to have crossed paths with each and every one of them this past year!
A shout out to few blogger babes I have had the pleasure of meeting over this past year: Elly of Uptownwithellybrown Lily of daily_craving Margaret of Stylethegirl Allison of Bayoucitylifestyle Sarah-Jane of Sarahjanereign Alessandra of Alessandrealaura Kristine of Kristine’s Kaleidoscope Alisee of thisisaboutstyle Chanell of essenceofchanell Lan of thelanline Stephanie of stephanietaylorjackson Laurie of lrosebylaurie Megan of styleyourlifepretty Tracy of tracedwithtaste and Ameerah of brunchandslay
Words of Advice
My advice for a blogger just starting out is
- Be consistent and honest
Once you decide to go for it you have to commit to it.
- Believe in yourself and your vision
This is what will make all of the difference. Once you determine what you want to share, stick to that. If you don’t know why you are blogging, chances are, no one else will know either. You have to have a clear cohesive message, and stand behind it.
- Pave your own way, because there is no exact science to this.
Social media is always evolving and so is this business. These is no exact formula for success. You just have to give it your best shot and see how it goes. There is a lot of trial and error involved, but it isn’t anything to get discouraged about.
- Have fun!
Okay so this is most important! I sometimes get really stressed out, wanting to take the perfect picture, but have noticed my best work comes when I am in the moment. Every project I have worked on has been very enjoyable and fulfills my need to be creative. Every experience has been fun, so I think that is something to take note of. If you aren’t having fun, its time to switch things up!
So before I end this post I wanted to add that, sometimes all it really takes to get you going is to have someone believe in you! So if you are reading this, and have wanted to start blogging, but were not sure if you could do it, just take the plunge! You will never know until you try! And, chances are you will make some amazing friends along the way! So cheers to 1 year! I totally cannot wait to see what year 2 has in store!
