Just a reminder that this blog has moved to a self-hosted site at http://www.morningink.com/.
Also, I have an exciting Divergent makeup kit giveaway going on right now that you should totally check out. Woo!
Hello! My site is now being self-hosted on WordPress.org at http://www.morningink.com
I am moving over all of my current subscribers, so if you receive updates from me, you will continue to see them this week. In the mean time, you can see my new post on the home page.
I’m so excited about having more power over my site, and I look forward to possibly collaborating with more of you in the future. WordPress.com introduced me to fabulous bloggers, whose friendship I wish to keep.
Wish me luck!
If I could steal any fictional character’s wardrobe, it would definitely be Robin Scherbatsky’s from How I Met Your Mother. I love her feminine corporate style of sharp blazers over billowy blouses with fitted jeans and heels. But every so often there’s one piece she wears that makes me immediately Google it on my phone.
Mason by Michelle Mason Chiffon Inset Gown (Sold Out)
So damn pretty! I don’t consider myself short, but I definitely don’t think I have the height needed for this length of a gown. I’ve stayed away from maxi dresses because I don’t think they would suit my size and shape. However, the cinched waist on this gown is extremely flattering and the halter neck is a classy alternative to the usual v-neck cut maxi’s.
Considering this gown is sold out and completely out of my price range, I found a few similar alternatives for any special occasions this summer.
1. Xscape Pleat Cutaway Blouson Dress
2. Ann Taylor Tall Halter Maxi Dress
3. Forever 21 Elegant M-Slit Maxi Dress
I like that these dresses have a slightly fuller skirt. This is ideal for apple shapes such as myself who don’t like to wear anything tight throughout the waist and hips. If I put on my big girl panties and wore this dress, I would pair it with rose gold sandal heels and dainty bracelets for an evening look.
Do you prefer shorter or longer gowns? How do you style your maxi dresses?
My love for Houston’s warmth is gone. Sunny skies and cool wind has been replaced with fog and humidity. I rather wear a coat than have to reapply deodorant at work. It’s not cute.
Shirt: American Eagle (similar here)
Skirt: Hollister (similar here)
Shoes: Urban Outfitters
Ring: Forever 21 (similar here)
A little bit of gloom, a little bit school girl uniform. This white button up from AE is one of my favorites because it’s such a lightweight breathable piece. I was inspired by the large window in my living room and the overcast sky to play with lighting and shadow in these photos. It’s a little different, but I like it.
Have a great Tuesday and thank you for reading.
Leah
For the first time in my life, I’ve been receiving compliments on my hair. This is uncommon for me since I used to butcher my hair and suffered with split ends and awful dye jobs throughout my teenage years and early 20’s.
I attribute my hair health to watching beauty videos and trying products that my faithful gurus recommend. I have noticed a huge difference in the thickness and elasticity of my hair by changing and adding a few steps in my daily routine.
It’s been a long process, but hair generally yields instant results. Here is my hair from two years ago:
I kept my hair parted down the middle and had short bangs with split ends from using a hair straightener on them every morning, even when they were still wet. My ponytail was the thickness of the circumference of a penny and it never grew. I used a lot of cheap Revlon hair dye in college and always cut my hair with kitchen scissors. I know, I know.
My hair still isn’t perfect, and I am in desperate need of a cut, but it’s definitely thicker, shinier and far more voluminous than before.
Organix Macadamia Oil Shampoo and Conditioner
I stopped using any shampoo that contains sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a lathering agent, and within a month I saw a dramatic change in the shininess and strength of my hair. I had less hair coming off on my brush and falling off when styling. I even cut the amount of shampoo I use in half, and now use about a quarter-sized dollop.
I have a bad habit of brushing my hair when it’s wet, and I always used a regular paddle brush which is extremely unhealthy for vulnerable wet hair. The Tangle Teezer is a gentle brush with thin flexible bristles in various lengths that releases tangles without snags and is suitable for sensitive scalps.
Tresemme Dry Shampoo and Heat Tamer
I let my hair air dry and separate it into sections when straightening. I mist heat protectant on to the section of hair and wait a few seconds for it to set. For second day hair, I repeat my straightening method on any parts of my hair that need a touch-up, and then spray a thin layer of dry shampoo on my part and on the ends of my bangs. I massage it into my scalp and it adds volume to my roots and will usually last a full work day depending on the weather.
When I can’t get to a salon (or I’m poor) I maintain the ends of my hair by snipping any split ends with a pair of hair cutting scissors. I have set my kitchen scissors aside and now use this sharp little beauty.
However, my hair will get to a point where I can no longer keep up with its health and need a professional to even the length and make me look a little less like Yoko Ono.
How do you maintain your hair? Do you have any products or methods that you’ve adopted that have made a dramatic change to your hair health?
I did it. I bought jeggings. After years of judging, I actually bought a pair and my god are they the most comfortable pair of pants I’ve ever owned. I even tweeted my praise to @AEO this morning and got a pleasant response. Let’s face it, they’re awesome. (Not just saying this because I’m competing in Project Live Your Life.) (I actually do love AE.) (A lot.)
Shirt: American Eagle
Jeans: American Eagle
Shoes: American Eagle
Necklace: Baublebar
Bracelets: American Eagle
Nails: OPI
I may love these jeans now, but I know I am quickly going to trade them in for a dress or skirt as soon as Houston turns into a pit of fire in the summer.
Have a great Friday and thank you for reading!
Leah
I spend the better part of my day dreaming about blue skies, cool wind, vibrant flowers and me twirling around like an idiot in a nude dress and a sparkly necklace.
I have my eye on a few blush and cream options for spring.
1. Zara Faux Leather Dress
2. American Eagle Lace Party Dress
3. TopShop Textured Seam Tunic
My skin tone is still way too light for these dresses, but as soon as my body no longer resembles a block of Philadelphia cream cheese, I am buying a nude dress.
To compliment the flirty feminine hue, a sparkly bib is a great addition to add a punch of personality and complete awesome.
1. Baublebar Eve Foliage Bib
2. Stella & Dot Somervell Necklace
3. Forever 21 Be Seen Iridescent Bib
Having once been an advocate for dainty necklaces and unique charms, I have been converted to statement necklaces. I can’t get enough. I want to collect them. I want to own so many that my family becomes concerned and I end up on an episode of Hoarders. Do they still air that show? I hope so, because I need help.
What pieces are you excited to wear for spring? Do you have a current obsession that may result in an intervention? Let’s start a support group.
Leah
Yo.
It’s unusually warm in Texas. My mind is telling me February but my body is telling me March. It feels like spring and I love it.
Shirt: Daily Look (I love this silk version)
Skirt: Forever 21 (similar here)
Shoes: Vans
Watch: Michael Kors
Vans and Converse are my summer shoe of choice. I’ve never been a fan of sandals or flip flops, so I’m usually seen in a pair of sneakers and a skirt. I’ve missed this floral skirt over the winter months and can’t wait to add it to my regular rotation. It’s my lifeblood.
What are you excited to dig out of your closet for the warmer months?
Have a great Monday and thank you for reading.
Leah
It’s the day of love!
Or the day of, you know, eating heart-shaped stuff.
Dress: H&M
Jacket: Target
Shoes: Urban Outfitters (Knock-offs here)
Necklace: H&M
I’m feeling very “Maybe it’s Maybelline in these photos.” But whatever, it’s totally apropro because today is also Fancy Friday. Click here to check out the other lovely people sharing their V-Day looks.
It’s been a running joke that my boyfriend of two years has never bought me flowers, because he hasn’t, UNTIL TODAY. Behold, my bountiful bouquet!
Such a pretty little arrangement. We’re keeping it cool tonight with some Pinkberry and pizza. My kind of Valentine’s treat.
Thank you for reading and have a safe and wonderful evening.
Leah
My makeup is always the same look achieved with different products. Excuse me for loving a taupe eye and pink lip.
From left to right: Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation in Shade 4.0, LORAC Pro Palette, Smashbox Photo Finish Dark Spot Correcting Primer, Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer in 5, Urban Decay Naked Flushed Palette, NARS Pro-Prime Eyeshadow Base, Anastasia Clear Brow Gel, Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara, Wet n Wild Eyeliner in Black Black, Maybelline Color Tattoo in Bad to the Bronze, MICA Beauty Cosmetics Tinted Lip Balm in #6 Fiesta.
I have sensitive acne-prone oily skin, so finding a trustworthy moisturizer is always a battle. I knew I had found it in one Korean product, but decided to give the Josie Maran Light Argan Oil a try. It was recommended as a great combat for my skin type on the Sephora website, and I’ve been bombarded with articles and videos about the use of argan oil on your hair and skin. So, I pulled the $48 price tag bandaid.
Josie Maran 100 percent Pure Argan Oil Light
Big mistake.
Not only did this moisturizer result in a horrible breakout along my neck, it made my pores more visible and my nose looked like a ripe strawberry against a greasy Cici’s pizza. It was awful. I continued to use it on the ends of my hair and on my face for several weeks hoping it took a little while for my skin to adjust, but no. My skin went completely downhill. After two months of use, I’ve returned to my old favorite.
Holika Holika Water March Moisture Green Full Cream
I found this moisturizer while browsing the adorable site PrettyandCute.com. They sell Asian beauty products that I can’t find in stores and have a large selection of BB creams and skincare products. I had been wanting to try Holika Holika since one of my favorite beauty YouTubers, frmheadtotoe, recommended them. This moisturizer has a fresh scent and a thin film that seals in the witch hazel and Himalayan berry extract. It’s perfect for troubled skin, and will prevent any acne medication from coming off on your pillow at night.
You let me down, Josie Maran. However, I do love the Hot Oil Self-Heating Hair Treatment. So, you’re not completely off my radar.
Have you tried using oils on your face? What is your go-to moisturizer?
Morning Ink 