Last Minute Halloween Costume Using Liquid Latex!

Halloween is upon us! With the big day right around the corner (literally), there's not much time to whip up a costume before any parties you might be attending. Well, today I have a super quick, fun, and full proof costume idea you can whip up tomorrow morning. A zombie. Any kind of zombie. All you are going to need is a bottle of liquid latex, which you can pick up at your local Party City or Spirit Halloween store, and cotton balls. A bottle of fake blood is an optional addition, which can also be found at Party City or Spirit Halloween.

Start of by going into your closet and deciding what kind of zombie you want to be based on clothes you already have. The options are endless. Glam, school girl, emo, prom queen, athlete, etc. If you have some old clothes you don't mind messing up, this is where the fake blood comes in. Take the clothing items outside and start splattering fake blood all over them.

To create that rotted zombie look, take your liquid latex and cotton balls. Start laying down the cotton balls where ever you want your zombie flesh and cover with liquid latex. Repeat the process until you have the perfect zombie, rotting flesh and let dry. You really can't go wrong. The messier the better. Cover with any lipsticks and eye shadows you already own to create a bloody, disgusting mess.

Here is a link to Glam & Gore's tutorial for using liquid latex and cotton balls:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sn2CY4lty_4

Enjoy! Happy Halloween! Xoxo

Quick & Simple Halloween Costume DIY: American Horror Story Coven.

Today I have another costume idea for you DIY beauty bandits out there... A witch from American Horror Story Coven. It's a super simple costume that you can throw together with items you probably already have sitting in your closet. All you will need are: a black dress, a black hat, and black booties. Voila! Here are links to some items from Forever 21 that can be used to create this costume (and will probably become staples in your closet this fall and winter).

Dresses: option 1 & option 2

Hats: option 1 & option 2

Booties

More Halloween fun on the way so keep an eye out! Xoxo

DIY Halloween Costume Confession: Dark & Sexy Nun!

I have a confession... It's my favorite time of year again and I absolutely cannot wait for Halloween! I've been rolling up my sleeves and getting to work on my DIY costume ideas for this year's bashes and I think you are going to love these fun, easy, unique, and inexpensive costume ideas I have for you. Today, I want to share with you a costume I am so excited to rock. So, if you are ready for a killer dark and sex costume that won't break the bank, keep on reading!

This year for Halloween I knew I wanted to combine dark and sexy into one costume so I turned to my fashion inspiration, Courtney Sixx. Her nun costume from last year was to die for! I knew this was the one! So without further adieu, here's what you will need in order to create this dark, sexy nun costume.

Dress with lace sleeves - The great thing about this dress is that you can wear it for other occasions besides Halloween!

Thigh high fishnet stockings

Pearl necklace - I picked up 3 to get the layered effect.

Gold cross necklace

Black veil & white headband - Detach the veil from the floral headpiece and glue onto any inexpensive white headband from the drugstore.

Silk ribbon - Gently sew onto the top of your thigh highs, crisscross down, and tie on the side.

Black pumps - Any pair you have in your closet.

For makeup, go for the dark, sultry look. Use black eye shadow and faux lashes to create dramatic eyes. Feather blacks, grays, and deep purples under the eyes to create an undead look. Use Nyx's High Voltage Lipstick in Dahlia (perfect almost-black red) to tie the whole look together.

Hope you love this unique and easy DIY sexy nun costume as much as I do. Keep an eye out for more costume ideas that are on the way!

Shop for a Cause for Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

It's officially October (my favorite month) and, although I'm fashionably late to the party,  I wanted to kick off the month with a post dedicated to breast cancer. After all, October is breast cancer awareness month and after a breast cancer scare last year, this cause is very near and dear to my heart.

Today I want to highlight a great way to shop for the cause with Bright Pink and Grayse. Grayse has teamed up with How2Girl and Bright Pink to donate a portion of the sales to breast cancer. Keep in mind these are pricey pieces, but also keep in mind that part of that price tag is going to help women battling breast cancer. You can check out the collection by clicking here! It's a great cause and a great way to get involved.



PS - I promise the Halloween posts are on their way!

How 2 Remove Water Stains from Suede Boots

It's officially fall and one of the hottest trends I have been dying over is suede boots. I recently picked up a pair of over-the-knee suede boots from Aldo and, would you believe it, got a water stain on them within the first 5 minutes of wearing them. I was devastated and quickly ran to my coworker for her expertise. She told me a trick that was a life saver. She pulled a new toothbrush out of her desk drawer and said to buff it out with circular motions. After about a minute of buffing, the water stain had completely disappeared. This is a killer tip to know this fall when strutting your stuff in a fab pair of boots.

Become a Savvy Traveler!

September has been a pretty quiet month here. This Beauty Bandit has been on-the-go traveling for business and pleasure. But not to worry.. I'm back in action. It's officially fall (this girl's favorite season) and with Halloween right around the corner, expect a lot of fun posts! However, back to the non-stop traveling. My recent trips got me thinking about various must have products I have learned to pack while sitting in countless airports that have helped me become a savvy traveler. If you're ready to become a savvy traveler too, then keep on reading.

We all know travel days are not fun. A lot of times you are up at an ungodly hour and preparing your self to sit in an airport for what feels like forever before even boarding your flight and sitting on a plane for even longer. Here are some of my favorite items to take with me that help me feel fresh and fabulous during long travel days.

• L'Oreal Elnett Hairspray 
• Batiste Dry Shampoo
• Colgate Wisp Mini Toothbrushes
• Victoria's Secret Rollerball Perfume
• Sephora Hydrating Face Mask
• Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizer
• Mini Hand Cream
• Vaseline Lip Therapy 
• Blotting Sheets
• Socks

These products have been serious life-savers for me! They would also make a fun and personalized present to gift to any of your jet-setter girlfriends. Hope you enjoy! Xoxo

Last but not Least of the Top 5 Fall Trends: Pleated Leather Skirts!

We've come to the end of our top 5 hottest fall trends countdown and there's nothing like going out on a high note. Today I am so excited to share with you a fall trend that is everywhere and that the inner rock chick in me has absolutely been dying over... Pleated leather/ faux leather skirts. Recently, every website I visit during my online shopping sprees has a pleated leather skirt option. It is seriously the perfect transition piece from summer to fall and even into winter. Pair it with a crop top or a tucked in blouse and some knee high boots for an edgy yet chic ensemble. Here are just a few I have come across:

Alice and Olivia Box Pleat Leather Skirt

Forever 21 Pleated Faux Leather Skirt

Material Girl Faux Leather Pleated Skirt

Charlotte Russe Faux Leather Skater Skirt

Top 5 Fall Trends Number 4: Bold Eyes and Lips.

Rules are meant to be broken, right? Absolutely! I'm sure every Beauty Bandit has heard this big no-no: bold eyes AND bold lips at the same time. Well this fall, be prepared to throw that rule out the window because this look is going to be hot! It's all about the drama and there is no better way than to pair a dark gray/black smokey eye with a deep plum or burgundy lippy. You could even deepen up those eyes with rich browns if that is more in your comfort zone. And don't forget your faux lashes to top off the extra vampy look! Here are some of my favorite products to help you unleash your dark side this fall!

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm in Standout

Nyx High Voltage Lipstick in Burlesque

Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Poe

Jouer Powder Eyeshadow in Mahogany

Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette

#3 of the Top 5 Fall Trends: Lace!

My top 5 fall trends countdown continues and today it's all about lace! There is nothing more elegant than lace and this fall it is one of the most popular trends out there. Every fashion magazine I flip through is full of lace. From skirts, to blouses, to crop tops. One of my favorite ways to rock lace is by pairing a white lace blouse with a faux leather skater skirt and over-the-knee boots. So chic! Here are some of my favorite lace scores that will be perfect this fall.

Intermix Alexis Lace Mock Neck Blouse

Express White Lace Insert Trapeze Dress

Zara Midi Skirt

Zara Lace Frill Top

Forever 21 Lace-Paneled Bodycon Dress

Top 5 Fall Trends Number 2: Wool Fedoras!

Ditch those beanies and say hello to the #2 must-have fall trend... Wool fedoras! I have quickly become a huge fan and these bad boys are a staple in my wardrobe. They hide dirty hair, are perfect for travel days, protect your face from the sun, and add a chic touch to any ensemble. Their versatility and practicality are what make them a perfect accessory in my books. And let me tell you, this fall they are going to be red hot! Everyone from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Courtney Sixx, and Victoria Beckham have been spotted rocking these hats. Here are just a few that will be perfect as the weather starts cooling off.

Urban Outfitters Ecote Scout Panama Hat

Zara Special Edition Hat

Topshop Wide Brim Fedora Hat

Forever 21 The Mirage Fedora

Beauty Bandit's Top 5 Fall Trends You Don't Want to Miss Out On! Number 1: Over the Knee Boots.

As much as I love summer, nothing compares to my love for fall. From the crisp morning air, to the haunted attractions, to the pumpkin scented everything, I cannot get enough of it! And yes, I know it is still August and we have a couple weeks left to enjoy the beach and pool, but the stores are already starting to get their fab fall collections in and I thought there would be no better time than now to start showcasing my top 5 fall trends you don't want to miss out on!

I'm going to kick-off the top 5 trends with one of my all time favorites! Over the knee boots! Fall is the perfect time to break out the boots and this season the taller, the better! Over the knee boots are going to be all the rage. Their versatility will make them a staple in every girl's closet. Try pairing them with jeans, leggings, or a dress. The options are endless! Here are a few options I have been absolutely loving!

Gianvito Rossi Almond Suede Boots

Breckelle's Faux Suede Thigh High Boots

Chinese Laundry Center Stage Over the Knee Boots

BELL Thigh High Boots

Style Steal: Intermix Burgundy Shirt Dress

Ladies! I have a style steal that is too good to pass up! If you have done any shopping at the mall or online recently, you have noticed burgundy is one of the hot, trendy colors this fall. I don't know about you, but I absolutely love this color. Well, when I was in New York City two weekends ago I stopped by one of my favorite stores, Intermix. I fell in love with the dress on the right but I just could not justify the price. Almost $300 for a dress, no thank you! Yesterday, I had some downtime while in Indianapolis and decided to do a little shopping. I popped into Francesca's and found the dress on the left. I mean, hello! Nearly identical in color and style and only $44. What a steal! Here are the links to both dresses:

Intermix Cut Out Back Trench Dress

Francesca's Regina Button Shirt Dress

Acne Horror Story & How I Cleared Up My Skin!

Today I have something a little different for you. Not the typical how to or top 5 products post but instead, a horror story. Yep, you heard me correctly! A real life horror story all about my battle with acne and how the situation went from bad to worse before I gave my skin the facelift (no pun intended) it needed to be bright, clear, and healthy.

It all began in February. For the past 2 years, I have religiously used Proactive and Target's Up & Up brand acne cream. Well in January, now 24 years old, my skin was clear and looking great so I decided I no longer needed these drying acne products. Boy was I wrong! In February, my skin started breaking out all over my face. And when I say breaking out, I mean cystic acne (which I had never had before) in places, like my forehead, that have never been issue spots for me. I quickly began using my Proactive again but it wasn't making a difference. I tried everything the market has to offer... Murad, Acne gels, Clinique. You name it, I tried it. And nothing was helping. If anything, my skin was getting worse and my bank account was getting smaller. Concealer wasn't disguising my blemishes and I knew scarring was going to occur as the cystic acne spread. My confidence level dropped and by mid-May I couldn't take it anymore. I made a doctors appointment and received an oral prescription that treats the cystic acne like an infection. I had to take it twice a day and after about 2 or 3 weeks, I noticed a HUGE difference. The cystic acne was gone and my complexion was already looking 100% better. I began using Proactive and the Up & Up acne cream again and since June, I have had the best looking skin of my life.

I'm hoping my 4 month acne horror story gives anyone who is struggling with acne hope! Once you find that treatment that works with your skin and acne, watch the miracles happen. If you have extremely stubborn cystic acne like I did, don't think you are stuck with it forever. Make a doctors appointment and get a prescription. It will work wonders and you can enjoy your new-found confidence!

My Top 3 Self Tanners Every Girl Needs this Summer!

I can't believe it's almost August! The summer is flying by but we still have at least another full month of pool weather ahead of us. I love having a healthy glow to my skin but not at the price of the sun's harmful rays. Instead, I opt for self tanning. I am a religious self-tanner and today I want to share with you my top 3 products that are sure to give you a golden goddess glow in no time!

St. Tropez. This is my tried and true, go-to, cannot live without self tanner. It gives you amazing color after just one use, not to mention the perfect tan you get after 3 consecutive days of use. It doesn't transfer onto clothes or sheets. The mit makes for a full-proof application and no orange hands. Actually, no orange at all to be honest. The only downside (like almost every self tanning product) it can become patchy as it wears off if you don't exfoliate really well daily.

Tarte Brazilliance. This stuff gives you a more gradual tan but oh my goodness is it gorgeous. It's a deeper brown shade but it's subtle and stunning! A few words of caution when using this product: use gloves, the smell may be overpowering but fades with time, and go easy over hands and feet. I find this product wears off much patchier than St. Tropez but if you are looking for a hint of color definitely give it a try.

Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs. Looking for a quick tan pick-me-up? Try this instant tanner by Sally Hansen. It's a spray but instead of applying right onto my legs and arms, I first apply on a mit then rub into my skin. The "airbrush" in the title is no joke either! This stuff seriously covers any imperfections. I was weary when I first tried because I applied the tanner than quickly had to get dressed and run out the door. Um, hello? Can you say self tanner all over your clothes? Wrong! I was so pleasantly surprised that it did not transfer onto my clothes, even in 90 degree weather. And it's super easy to wash off in the shower at the end of the day.

Hope you are having a fab summer!

The Best, Inexpensive Curling Iron on the Market!

I have been on a mission to find the perfect, inexpensive curling iron on the market for a long time now. I have aspired to achieve the curls Kate Beckinsale, Courtney Sixx, and Candance Swanepoel rock but I couldn't bring myself to buy a product for over $100. That just seems insane when I think I might not love the product or use it as often to make it worth the money. I have tried countless inexpensive curling irons from Target but honestly, none of them have "wowed" me. It's been a true Goldilocks story... the 1" barrel was too small and the 1 1/2" barrel was too big. Well, in true Goldilocks fashion, I found the one that was just right. In fact, it was beyond "just right," it was perfect! It's the Pro Beauty Tools Professional Gold 1 1/4" Curling Iron. I picked mine up at my local Target. I used this bad boy once and achieved the most perfect curls I have ever had minus professional styling. It was the perfect size and so easy to use. It took about 20 minutes to curl my whole head and it didn't feel like it was tugging on my hair and pulling it out. And ready for the best part? It's under $25. I couldn't be happy with my find and ladies, if you are looking for a holy grail curling iron that won't break the bank, try this one!

Killer Zara Sale!

Ladies! Zara is one of my all-time favorite stores and today when I decided to check out their online selection, I stumbled upon their killer 50% off sale. Seriously! Pretty much every thing online is 50% off. Dresses, skirts, tops, you name it. And the best part is there is still a great selection of sizes for a lot of the items. I just had to share this with you because what girl doesn't love a deal? I mean come on, picked up these three steals all for under $100. Unreal!

Check shirt with pocket, $19.99
Faux leather midi pencil skirt, $29.99
Faux leather dress with decorated hem, $39.99

How 2 Avoid Blisters from Your Heels.

I just got back from a fabulous girl's trip to New York City with my mom. I had the best time! Now, I love getting dressed up as much as the next girl and even though NYC requires a lot of walking, I had to wear my heels. I was so thankful that I had a little trick up my sleeve to prevent my shoes from rubbing and causing blisters and today I want to pass this little gem along to you.

All you need is Vaseline. Yep, you heard me right. Buy a little tub of Vaseline or any petroleum jelly and rub it along the areas of your feet where your heels rub and viola! No more painful blisters. It's like magic! Your girlfriends will be amazed at just how long you can keep walking around without any pain!

So whether you are strutting your stuff in New York City or simply rocking your favorite pair of heels to the office, blisters won't slow you down!

Quick & Easy DIY Sunhat!

This past weekend I had a bunch of my best girlfriends over to celebrate my birthday! I knew I wanted to wear a fun sunhat to protect my face from the sun and add a little extra touch to my ensemble. I was down to the wire, working on my hat the night before my party with little options and I have to say, I LOVE how it turned out. It was quick, easy, and the best part, no sewing or glue was needed! All I needed was a little creativity! Today I want to share with you exactly how I customized my hat in two easy steps!

I bought my hat on overstock.com but any sunhat you have around will work. Just make sure your hat has holes in the straw. I picked up white wired ribbon and a pre-made white wire ribbon bow at my local Michael's for under $10.

Start with your pre-made bow. It should have wire pipping attached, which can be used to secure it. Take that wire pipping and stick it through two of the holes right where the band area meets the brim of the hat. Securely wrap the wire pipping together inside the hat and tuck it along the side. Now take your wire ribbon and cut a long piece. Wrap it around your hat to create a brim and start knotting the ends together. Tuck the knot under the bow and voila! You have a new and improved sunhat that took less than 10 minutes to create! So simple, right?

I hope you're having a fabulous summer! Xo

Sooth Sunburn with Aloe Vera Ice Cubes

Summer is finally here! I don't know about you but the beach and the pool are calling my name. Sure it's fun enjoying the sunshine but we all know how damaging the sun can be to our skin. Sunscreen is super important and after having a skin cancer scare last month, I am extra cautious of the sun's harmful rays. But, sometimes you start catching up with your girlfriends over cocktails and stay in the sun a little too long. Sunburn can be painful and make you feel downright miserable. Aloe Vera is one of the best remedies to soothe your skin but today I want to share with you a little trick I learned to boost the soothing power of the Aloe Vera and give you the relief you so desperately need. Fill an ice cube tray with your Aloe Vera gel, which you can find at any drugstore for less than $5. Put in the freezer for a couple of hours. When needed, pop out your new Aloe Vera ice cubes and see first hand how great they feel on your skin! So simple but so handy during pool season!

Rock the Look: Courtney Sixx Black and White Striped Topshop Dress

It should come as no surprise that I am highlighting another killer ensemble the gorgeous Courtney Sixx rocked during her recent How2Girl Topshop shopping event. When the red carpet pictures were released and I saw that AMAZING dress I instantly thought Beetlejuice chic! I mean, seriously? That dress is to die for and the black and white vertical stripes are so in right now and so flattering! I quickly visited the Topshop section of Nordstrom's website and found the dress. I knew I had to have it but I was unsure about sizing. I read reviews saying they run small and having never ordered from Topshop before, I wanted to go to the store and try it on. Well, after trying it on and falling even more in love with it, I can tell you the sizing does run a little small. I would suggest ordering a size up if you are unsure. If you are interested in picking up this dress for yourself, click here! You can create so many different looks with the dress just by changing up the shoes. Try black strappy sandals, white pumps, or teal peeptoes.

#1 of the Top 5 Must Have Products for Concert Goers

We have made it to numero uno! Finally! Today, it's all about moisturizing lipsticks. Girls, we all know no makeup look is complete without a fab lip color to make your pout pop but, at a long concert, there is nothing worse than your lips drying and hurting while you are singing your favorite songs. Especially when the line to the ladies room, if the venue even has a ladies room, are ridiculously long and so not worth the wait to touch up your makeup! That's why every concert going gal should have a hydrating lipstick that keeps you looking gorgeous all day and night. One of my absolute favorite makeup brands for lipsticks is Maybelline. The color selection is endless, the quality is top-notch, and the price is a steal. I seriously reach of these lipsticks over my high end ones on a regular basis. However, if lipstick isn't your thing, I have a solution for you, too. Try the Rosy Lips Vaseline. It's tiny, so it will fit into a small clutch or crossbody, it gives your lips a slight pink tint, and it will hydrate for hours.

I hope this countdown has helped you as your plan for your killer shows this concert season!

#2 of the Top 5 Must Have Products for Concert Goers

I only have two more products to share with my concert goers but they are just as important as the other products I have highlighted so far. My #2 must have product every girl needs when attending the countless concerts and festivals is a light perfume or body spray. If you are like me, than you LOVE your perfume! But when you are dancing around at an outdoor concert for hours with hundreds of people, it's safe to say you should steer clear of heavier scents. They can be pretty overpowering. Instead opt for a light, fresh scent. Try an Eau De Toilette version of your favorite perfume or, if you don't want to spend a lot of money on another fragrance, try a Victoria's Secret body spray! They are inexpensive but smell oh-so delicious. There are limitless options so you are sure to find something you love!

#3 of the Top 5 Must Have Products for Concert Goers

The countdown continues and today I want to talk about a product that is going to be a game changer. Say hello to your hair's new best friend, L'Oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray. This stuff is seriously the best! Outdoor concerts and festivals equal heat, humidity, and rain. Well, not much can help hair when you are stuck in a torrential downpour, but L'Oreal Elnett is a life saver when it comes to keeping styles in place while outside dancing around in the heat and humidity all day. Whether you want to go sleek and straight or flirty with big curls, your style is going to stay put all day and night! Because let's be serious, nothing is worse than those stunning curls, that took you so long to perfect, falling out. And the best part... this hairspray keeps your hair soft. Not that you are going to want a lot of people running their fingers through your hair at a concert, but you get the point.

#4 of the Top 5 Must Have Products for Concert Goers

Next up on my list of the top 5 must have products for concert goers is... waterproof mascara! There is nothing worse than the dreaded panda eyes, especially when you don't have a nice bathroom to touch up your makeup in and you end up getting into your room in the early hours of the morning only to be horrified by how much your mascara had smudged while rocking out. To avoid situations like this, opt for a waterproof mascara to ensure your makeup will be looking flawless all day and night. My favorite mascara, and although it is not waterproof, this baby stays on all day without a hitch, is Too Face Better than Sex. Not only will the mascara stay in place, it will lengthen and volumize your lashes to the point you don't need to mess around with faux lashes. This mascara will make you look like you have lashes for days without the worry of your falsies coming off throughout the concert. Hope this tip helps you this summer and keep an eye out for product #3 on the countdown...

Beauty Bandit's Top 5 Must Have Products for Concert Goers this Summer. Number 5!

It's that time of year... Summer concert season! There's nothing I love more than throwing on a pair of shorts and moto boots and enjoying an evening of rock n roll with a cold drink. Whether you bought front row pavilion seats to see your favorite band or you are planning on dancing the day away with your friends and a few drinks on the lawn, there are certain items every girl needs to prepare for a long day of rocking out to live music. I'm going to be counting down my top 5 must have products for concert goers, in no particular order, starting with one of the most important! Especially for those of you that love the lawn seats. Sunscreen!

It goes without saying that sunscreen is one of the most important items you should be reaching for all summer! I love a golden goddess tan as much as the next girl but I opt for faux tanners. The sun is damaging and we need to keep our skin looking and feeling young, healthy, and beautiful. So even if you are in the pavilion, be sure to prep you skin with a coat of your favorite sunscreen. You may be out in the sun a while depending on the number of bands. And throw a little travel sized bottle in your purse to reapply throughout the day so you don't end up lobster red and hurting the next day.

Rock Bright Lips this Summer Inspired by Mad Men's 60's Fashion

I am super late to jump on the Mad Men bandwagon seeing as the series finale recently aired. Well thanks to my friend, Netflix, I am able to catch up on every episode through instant streaming. Needless to say, I'm hooked! Not only is the story intriguing and Don Draper downright dreamy, but the fashion is to die for! I sit there and drool over the killer dresses, hairstyles, and makeup. Especially the bright lip colors! Recently, I find myself reaching for these brighter lip colors inspired by the 60's style of the show and today I want to share with you a few lip colors I have been absolutely loving.

Nyx High Voltage Lipstick in Rags to Riches: A gorgeous bright watermelon. Very flattering on fair and tanned skin tones. If bright colors make you nervous, try this one! I promise you will be pleasantly surprised like I was!

Nyx High Voltage Lipstick in Rock Star: The perfect mix of orange and red. Be sure to use a lip liner with this lipstick!

Revlon Lipstick in Smoked Peach: A gorgeous, matte peachy orange shade. Don't let the word "smoked" turn you off from this color, it is a bright, fun orange that doesn't dry out your lips.

Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm in Showy: If you want your lips to pop, rock this bright fuchsia. It's matte, it's hydrating, and it's longwearing!

Too Faced Melted Melon: Like the name suggests, this is a stunning, super pigmented melon shade. It's the priciest option but so worth every penny!

Sometimes a pop of color is exactly what your ensemble calls for! This summer is the perfect time to pick up one or two of the lip products I mentioned above if you want a fab Mad Men/ 60's inspired look. All you need to top of your look is some winged eyeliner and a killer pair of cat eye sunglasses!

Four Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Foundation

Foundation is an important and crucial step in most people's makeup routines. Whether you are like me and have trouble skin you are trying to conceal or simply want to even out your skin tone, creating the illusion of a flawless face can be a simple task with foundation. However, there are a few mistakes people tend to make when applying foundation and today I want to share them with you!

First, you don't want to rub your foundation into your skin. This is especially detrimental if you have acne or dry skin. The rubbing motions cause micro exfoliation, which simply means you are aggravating and in turn, drawing more attention to your dry patches and blemishes. Instead, stipple your foundation into your skin. This will keep everything in place and add the extra coverage you might be looking for. I used to make this mistake and since switching to dabbing motions, I have noticed a huge different in how my foundation covers my trouble spots.

Next, you want to layer your foundation, not apply a ton in one go around. By applying too much, your foundation will not set, meaning it will remain sticky and wet, and your face will look cakey. No one wants the dreaded cake-face! Instead, work in light layers and let them dry before applying more. This will build up the coverage, as well.

Always remember to blend your foundation down your neck! I like to self tan but I don't apply anything to my face because it is really sensitive. Instead, I use a darker foundation. However, on days when my fake tan is starting to wear off, my foundation can be a tad darker. By blending the foundation down your neck, you create a seamless transition. It's the worst when you walk out the door only to realize your face and neck are two different colors!

Last but certainly not least, set your foundation with powder. Once your foundation has dried dab some translucent powder all over your face to lock in the color and coverage. Again, don't sweep the brush over your face. This will move the foundation, that you spent so much time perfecting, all around and lighten the coverage. You don't want your foundation melting, slipping, or rubbing off throughout the day!

My Top 5 Ways to Rock Jeans at the Office

Jeans to work? I know some of you are instantly thinking that is a big no-no! Well I'm here to tell you that is not true! Sure there is a time and place for jeans... For instance, if you have a meeting with clients or a big presentation, probably not the best time to strut in wearing jeans. But, the options with jeans are endless. You can dress them up or down and there are tons of styles that will work for you. There are plenty of ways to incorporate jeans into your work wardrobe and I'm here to share my top 5 fab ways to rock jeans at the office!

#1: Cuff your skinny jeans. By rolling the bottom of your skinny jeans into a cuff, you instantly look more put together. Especially if your jeans are a little long. Nothing is worse than jeans that bunch around your ankles.

#2: Pair with a blazer. Blazers can make your ensemble look polished and professional with little effort. By pairing with jeans and a crisp blazer, you will be ready to impress at the office.

#3: Boyfriend jeans with a blouse and pointed pumps. You don't want your jeans to be too baggy, but a more relaxed fitting boyfriend jean paired with a blouse and pointed pumps will have you looking oh-so chic.

#4: Skinny jeans, boots, and a layered chunky sweater. When the temperatures start to cool off or your office building is just downright cold, take a pair of skinny jeans and pair with some black knee high boots. Layer a chunky sweater over a longer top to keep you warm and stylish.

#5: High waisted jeans and a button down shirt. Stop by your local Express and pick up a pair of high waisted jeans and one of their portafino button downs. This combo will be the perfect mix of casual and professional.

Spring & Summer Style Essential: Hats

With spring finally here, there is no better time to enjoy the outdoors after being cooped up in the house all winter! I am loving the warm days and bright sunshine but, as you probably already know, the sun is not kind to skin. Wrinkles, sunspots, and cancer are just some of the damages sun can do to your skin. That's where my new best friend comes in... large hats! Not only can they add a little something extra to your ensemble but they provide killer protection from the sun's harmful rays. And what better accessory to rock to an outdoor soiree this summer paired with a flirty dress?Today I want to share with you some stylish and affordable hat options that will help your skin stay happy and healthy!

My absolute favorite hat is the Ecote Scout Panama Hat from Urban Outfitters but it's a little pricey. Forever 21, Overstock, and Walmart have fab options that won't break the bank! Check out these links to some killer hats:

Ecote Scout Panama Hat, $39

Chain Accent Floppy Hat, $7.97

Colorblock Straw Fedora, $14.90

White Straw Sun Hat, $18.99

Three Fun & Simple Ways to Incorporate Color Into Your Style!

Spring in the perfect time to add a little color into your ensemble. Now if you are reading this thinking there is no way I am going to wear a yellow dress or pink blazer, don't worry! If you are like me and favor black, white, and gray attire, I have 3 fun and simple tips that will have you rocking bright colors in no time!

Purse

One of the easiest ways to make a huge statement and add tons of color to your outfit is with a satchel or cross body. The bright purse will pop against your neutral colored clothing and will add instant interest to your ensemble. This Michael Kor's cross body in Raspberry is fabulous but if you are looking for a more budget friendly option try this cross body from Target. I love the pink but all of the colors are gorgeous and perfect for spring.

Sunglasses

Another great way to add a pop of color is with your sunglasses. Ray Ban makes killer mirrored flash lens aviators in fun colors like green, blue, and orange. I have the green pair and get compliments every time I wear them. If aviators aren't your thing, try a pair of sunglasses with colorful frames. You can find affordable pairs at Forever 21, Target, and Boohoo.

Nail Polish

Last but not least, one of the easiest ways to add some bright, fun colors without any sort of long term commitment or spending a lot of money is with nail polish! Essie nail polish runs, what.. about $8 a bottle? And the color selection is endless. Not to mention, you can easily remove or change the color at the drop of a hat! Some of my favorites to try are: Mint Candy Apple, Fiesta, Bikini So Teeny, and Geranium.

Getting the Intermix Look for Less!

I absolutely love Intermix! I am constantly dying over their recently added items online. But! I am not about to spend close to $300 for a trendy skirt. So, in true Beauty Bandit fashion, I decided to check out some of my go-to online shops and find similar pieces that won't break the bank. I found near identical skirts to the ones I was drooling over at Intermix for a fraction of the cost! Can't beat that!

First, this killer white fringe skirt! Fringe is all the rage right now, with huge festivals like Coachella happening. It adds the perfect edgy rock flair to any ensemble and the chalk white of this skirt adds a modern vibe. This Intermix skirt is to die for! Even though it is no longer available online, it was close to $300. I found this Dot & Line skirt on Nasty Gal for a mere $108.

The second skirt I fell in love with on Intermix was this pale pink faux leather slit pencil skirt. This piece would allow you to create a lot of different looks. Again, however, the price was a little high for my liking. So I headed over to Forever 21, which never lets me down, and found this killer skirt for less than $35. The color is not exactly the same but the style is nearly identical.

Just remember, even if you find an ensemble you absolutely must have but the price is just too unrealistic, do a little searching and I guarantee you will find something similar for a fraction of the cost. You closet and your bank account will thank you!

Casual Friday Outfit of the Day

Ditch those pencil skirts, blazers, and blouses. Today I want to share with you one of my favorite casual Friday outfits. It is the perfect outfit to make you look relaxed but still put together in the office, and allows you to go straight from work to play! I love being able to get my weekend started right away!

I paired my Mossimo slightly distressed skinny jeans with a Zara checked shirt that I loosely tucked in to give more shape. For shoes, I went with my Forever 21 black patent pumps. I accessorized with my Michael Kor's watch, and simple wrap bracelet from Nordstrom, and my Princess P Kim bracelet. It's a super simple outfit but adds a lot of style to your casual Friday!

To get this look:

Mossimo Distressed Jeans

Zara Check Shirt

Forever 21 Patent Pumps

Michael Kors Watch

Wrap Bracelet

Have a fab weekend! Xo

Quick & Easy Hair Pick-Me-Up

Unruly ends can ruin a good hair day very quickly. Whether they are over processed or downright dry, sometimes ends need a little extra TLC. Today I have a super quick and easy pick-me-up that will bring life back into your ends.

All you need is a jar of organic coconut oil! Take a tiny bit of product and warm it up between your fingers. Gently dab onto your ends and comb through. A little goes a very long way with this product so use it conservatively. You don't want to slather your entire head in coconut oil! This will revive your ends instantly by adding tons of hydration.

Organic Coconut Oil, $7.99

Spring Style Essential: Cat Eye Sunglasses

Rocking a pair of cat eye sunglasses is an easy way to look chic, sexy, and right on trend this spring! I have been loving seeing all the options available from places like Forever 21, Elodie K, Nordstrom, etc. The list is endless. And a girl can never have too many sunglasses in her collection! Here are a few pairs of cat eye sunnies I have been dying over.

Eliza Ombre Frame Sunglasses, $10. These sunglasses are one of my favorites that I have found. I recently discovered boohoo.com and when I saw these killer shades for a mere $10, I knew I had to have them. I love the large, rounded shape with the slight cat eye wing! And the ombre adds an extra, fun touch.

Marina Cat-Eye Shades, $20. Nasty Gal is one of the best places to shop for ultra trendy looks and pieces. These taupe cat eye sunglasses are no exception. They have a modern vintage vibe that is so sleek and will go with so many different looks adding a chic finishing touch.

55mm Metal Rim Cat Eye Sunglasses, $12. Nordstrom is one of my favorite stores to go to when looking for good quality, cute, and affordable sunglasses. Seriously! Check the junior's section. These are the perfect pair of basic black sunglasses that will go with absolutely anything!

Holly Pearl Ombre Sunglasses, $290. Yes, you saw that price correctly. These are definitely a splurge but they are oh-so fabulous! This is the pair that sparked my love affair with cat eye sunnies. They are rounded with the cat eye wing and have mirrored lenses, which I absolutely love. So if you are looking for a splurge present to yourself, I highly recommend this pair!

How 2 Add Instant Shine to Hair with Beer!

Is your hair feeling dull and drab after the long winter? Well I have the perfect pick me up to add tons of shine to hair just in time for the warmer temps!

Go into your refrigerator a grab a beer (IPA beer will work best). Yep! This is the only ingredient you are going to need to make hair shine. Fill a spray bottle with the beer and hop in the shower. Wash your hair normally with your favorite shampoo and conditioner and rinse with water. Take your beer and spray it evenly throughout your hair and let sit for a few minutes. Rinse the beer out with water. The colder the better. Let dry and enjoy your hair's stunning new shine! It's that easy!

Fun and Easy DIY 2 Get Your Nail Polish Collection Organized this Spring

There is nothing worse than a bin or drawer full of all the nail polishes you have in your collection. And if you are like me, your collection is slightly out of control! Not only do you spend extra, unnecessary time trying to dig through all of your polishes to find the perfect shade to paint your nails, but forgotten favorites get buried at the bottom never to be seen again. Well today I have a fun and easy DIY (courtesy of the How2Girl herself, Courtney Sixx) and a little extra tip, Beauty Bandit style, to get your nail polish collection manageable and organized this spring.

I may be the Beauty Bandit but I love getting my hands dirty working on fun DIY crafts with my girlfriends! So if you are like me than start by heading over to How2Girl.com and check out this post. No, we aren't making serving trays. Pay special attention to the box. This is the first step in the right direction to an organized way to store your polishes. Of course you can decorate your box any way you want but I thought Courtney's idea was a super fun way to keep things clean but also add a little something to your bathroom decor.

Once your box is complet, it's time to get to work on those polishes. This is the perfect time to try and revive any forgotten polishes with my nail polish remover trick here, but if your old polishes are beyond saving, throw them away! Now it's time to start painting the tops of your polishes. Yes, you heard me right! Grab a paper plate and, one at a time, unscrew the top of the polish and place on the plate. Dip a Q-tip into the bottle and dot the top of the nail polish that is laying on the paper plate. Repeat this step with all the polishes and a clean Q-tip. Stand them up in your newly decorated DIY box and you will see that you will be able to easily tell exactly what color each polish is! This will keep them organized in the box and save you a ton of time the next time you want to paint your nails!

How 2 Wear Leather This Spring Part 2! Get Courtney Sixx's Look 4 Less!

The gorgeous Courtney Sixx is at it again looking fab in a killer outfit and inspiring me to do these posts all about rocking leather in this spring! I just knew I wanted to recreate this look and wear it to my next girl's dinner.

When I saw this outfit I was dying over that leather skirt. I quickly began hunting through all of my favorite online shopping sites to try and find something similar but affordable. I found this pencil skirt, which not only helps recreate Courtney's look but could also be paired with the right top to create a chic office look. And for less than $40, I couldn't resist! I knew I would be able to find a comparable top in Forever 21's endless pages of crop tops. There were so many budget friendly options but this one jumped out at me because the back of the top match's Courtney's almost identically and it is less than $20! Pair this combo with your favorite pumps and you will be looking and feeling sexy, fabulous, oh so chic!

How 2 Wear Leather This Spring Part 1!

There's nothing I love more, in true Brittany fashion, than a little leather to give an outfit just the right amount of edge without going full on rock chick! We are officially into spring and with all the floral prints, bright colors, and lighter materials you may be thinking, I can't pull off leather without it looking too heavy and out of season. Well I'm here to prove your wrong. Today I want to give you some tips for rocking leather the right way this spring!

You can never go wrong with a leather jacket! The evenings can still be chilly and throwing a leather jacket over a dress or pairing it with a semi-sheer tank and distressed skinny jeans will have you looking oh-so chic! You can also incorporate a leather jacket in a cream or white to brighten up your look. Click here for my all time favorite faux leather jacket from Nordstrom or click here for a great cream jacket from Forever 21.

Another great tip is to pair a cute leather crop top with a cotton skater skirt or high waisted jeans. By mixing materials your outfit will be balanced and not so much like cat woman! Here are two fab and affordable crop tops from Forever 21: one and two.

I love rocking leather bottoms. Faux leather leggings or a leather pencil skirt paired with a flowy floral top is the perfect way to look edgy and chic at the office or out to lunch with your girls. I found this pencil skirt the other day and had to have it!

Last but not least, one of the easiest ways to rock a little leather this season without breaking the bank is with your handbag. Whether it's a cross body, clutch, or satchel, have fun and try out different textures, sizes, and colors. This is the perfect season to rock a hot pink tote or mint cross body! Click here or here for two killer options from, you guessed it, Forever 21.

My Top 10 Beauty Tips for Spring!

Spring is only a few short hours away and I could not be more excited! Not only am I looking forward to the warmer weather, but also to revamp my beauty routine! I'm kissing dry, drab skin goodbye and saying hello to glowing skin, pastel colors, and bright lips! Today, just in the nick of time, I want to share with you my top 10 beauty tips and tricks to get you well on your way to a fresh look this spring!

1. Protect your manicure from spray tans with lotion. Everyone wants to jump into spring glowing and what better way than self tanning! Next time you get a spray tan, dab your favorite, inexpensive lotion on your nails to protect them from discoloration.

2. Avoid extra shine and orange tints by opting for a face powder a few shades darker than your skin tone instead of a bronzer for contouring.

3. Create your own bb cream. With the warmer weather, you may not want to wear heavy foundation everyday. Instead, mix a little bit of your face moisturizer into your foundation and apply. It will feel light, give you great coverage, and keep skin moisturized throughout the day.

4. Bring your pastel polishes back to life after sitting in a drawer all winter. We all hate when we reach for one of our favorite polishes only to realize it has gotten gunky. Well don't throw it away just yet! Pour a little nail polish remove into the polish and watch it come back to life!

5. Revive lipsticks with rubbing alcohol and a Q-tip. Lipstick can dry out and build up bacteria. Revive your favorite brights this spring by dipping a Q-tip in rubbing alcohol and removing the top layer of the lipstick. Wipe off again with the dry side of the Q-tip and voila! As good as new.

6. Get your legs extra silky soft in your shorts by mixing a dab of hair conditioner with your shaving cream.

7. Create the perfect cat eye by folding a tissue and holding it on an angle along your eyes to perfect your winged liner. Create a softer look by winging out black eyeshadow. The tissue will also help prevent fall out on your cheeks.

8. Hair looking drab after a day out in the sun? Spray Batiste dry shampoo into your roots to keep it looking and feeling fresh. This dry shampoo also adds tons of volume!

9. Run a dryer sheet through your hair to eliminate static.

10. Avoid dry feet in your favorite heels with Vaseline. Apply the Vaseline all over your feet before you go to bed. Pop on a pair of fuzzy socks and get some beauty sleep. Wake up in the morning with amazingly soft feet!

I hope these tips help you! Happy Spring! Xo

Kiss Hair Breakage Goodbye and Say Hello to The Wet Brush!

Kiss hair breakage goodbye and say hello to your wet hair's new best friend... The Wet Brush! Seriously, a brush designed to use on wet hair! Now we all know brushing wet hair is a big no-no due to the lose of elasticity; but that was before this bad boy came along. If you have really curly hair and can only brush your hair when it's wet, or you are like me and your hair gets knotty if you don't brush it wet, then this product is a must have. It has been a lifesaver for my hair.

I don't know what it is about this brush, but it doesn't pull through your hair causing extra breakage and fallout. Instead it gently detangles hair while keeping it happy and healthy. On top of how amazing it works, you can pick from tons of colors, finishes, and patterns. Super fun! I found my new best friend at Target but they can also be ordered on Amazon.

Make Lashes Look Fake with My Top 3 Mascaras

I love long, volumized lashes but sometimes I just don't feel like going through the hassle of applying false lashes and then worrying they are going to pop up throughout the night. In my quest to make my lashes look as big and fab as possible, I have come across 3 life changing mascaras for anyone's budget. So if you are in the market for a new holy grail mascara, look no further!

Let's start with my absolute favorite, cannot live without mascara! Too Faced Better Than Sex. With just one coat of this mascara your lashes will be looking longer, fuller and downright amazing! Two coats and people won't believe you don't have a pair of falsies on. Just look at the picture above of my natural lashes with two coats of this bad boy! And you don't need to worry about this mascara flaking off throughout the day. This is the most expensive of my 3 favorite mascaras at $23 at Ulta and Sephora.

Maybelline's the Falsies Flared Mascara was my tried and true mascara for many years until I discovered Better Than Sex. It is budget friendly and gives great results. It's not as volumizing but with a few coats, your lashes will be looking super long. And it really does give your lashes a flared look, which I love. It can be found at any drug store for about $6.

Last but not least, the most budget friendly option, the Volumizing Mascara from Forever 21. I can't say this mascara adds a lot of volume but if you are looking for longer lashes, this can't be beat! It separates and lengthens lashes like crazy. This mascara is perfect for a more natural look and the best part, it's less than $5!

The Perfect Spring Break Natural, Dewy Makeup Inspired by Graceland's Paige Arkin

It's officially March and with all of this snow the east coast is still getting, I can't help but dream about a tropical getaway filled with a lot of sun, sand, and salt water! Between my sick days and snow days, I have been rewatching USA's Graceland and loving Paige's makeup. I have been so inspired by the gorgeous Serinda Swan's natural, dewy, bronzed look that would be perfect to rock during a spring break vacation or as you are trudging through the snow, wishing summer would hurry up! Today, learn how to get this natural and beautiful makeup that will have you looking like you just got back from Hawaii.

Start with a little glow by applying St. Tropez self tanner all over your body and face. Apply your favorite foundation and whip out the bronzer and highlight. Using Physician's Formula Bronze Booser, contour under your cheek bones to create a gorgeous, just hit the beach look. Lightly bring the bronzer up your temples and along your hair line. Don't forget to define your jawline, as well. Take theBalm's fab Mary-Lou Manizer and highlight your cheek bones. You will be looking like a dewy goddess right about now!

For this look, the eyes are super easy and natural. Start by priming with Urban Decay's Primer Potion. Apply Wet N Wild's Crease color from the Sweet as Candy Trio all over the lid and up into the crease. To darken the crease, mix Peace and Affection from the Stila Soul Palette. Highlight the brow bone with Light from the same palette. Fill in your brows with the Nyx Ultimate Brow Kit. Apply a little Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner in Black to the outer half of your upper lash line. Smudge a little of the Wet N Wild eye pencil in Bronzed under your lower lash line. Add a coat of the Maybelline Falsies Mascara to your top and bottom lashes to top off this look.

No lipsticks, lip pencils, or glosses needed for this look. Dab a little Vaseline Lip Therapy in Rosy Lips to your pout and you are ready to hit the beach!