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!

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

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

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.

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

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 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.

Steal the Look for Less! Valentino Rockstud Pumps.

How fab are those Valentino Rockstud Pumps on the left? Stunning! But paying almost $1,000 for a pair of shoes is a little ridiculous. Well as I was searching through DSW's newest and hottest selection of heels, I stumbled upon these BCBGeneration Darron Pumps pictured on the right. I couldn't believe how much they looked like the gorgeous Valentino pumps for a mere $70. How insane is that? They look almost identical and won't break the bank! They also come in red and teal, which would be perfect to rock this summer! So if you are dying over those Valentinos but want a more budget friendly option, I highly recommend checking out the selection DSW carries.