Birthday Money Drugstore Haul!

April 1, 2016April 1, 2016michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

QUICK BLOG NOTE: I just want to quickly apologize for not posting to schedule. I’ve been a little all over the place and I just started my new job, so I am just trying to settle into a new schedule. Things will get figured out SOON! 😀 Thanks for reading!

***Read my last Drugstore Haul HERE.

Hola my drugstore makeup lovers!

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Last weekend was my 25th Birthday. I celebrated by dressing up and going out to my favorite Mexican restaurant with a large group of some of my favorite people; some close friends and my family. I ordered a chimichanga (my favorite dish there,) and flan for dessert, while I sampled both pitchers of white and red sangria. *Spoiler Alert: The red was better. *Spoiler Alert #2- There was also salsa, homemade guacamole and tortillas as an appetizer. #Yes #Bliss

Oh and my parents got me the huge numbered balloons in GOLD…which I asked them for! 😉

As you grow older gifts tend to come in monetary form…and you know your girl is not complaining! So as the responsible “Adult” in me plans to put some in the bank, the blushing birthday girl full of excitement set aside a little fun spending money for some beauty products. Now as we get further into the prices and the products, I want to inform you that I understand that not everyone has the opportunity to be able to spend $50 on makeup in one shot. And trust me when I say I looked for the cheaper stuff because I wanted more bang for my buck (for lack of a better saying). I would not have spent that money if it wasn’t a gift meant to buy what I wish. With that being said let’s get into the haul!

I think for the most part, I bought some great items, which I will show you now… via crappy cell phone pics. #TakeMeAsIAm 😉

TOTAL AMOUNT SPENT: $50.20

I set aside $50 of my birthday money to allow myself to splurge on some fun makeup and skin care products. Now even though this is drugstore makeup, it isn’t always super cheap, but I think I got a pretty good amount of stuff for $50. I visited my local Rite Aid first; gathering some new Simple skin care products. I have their foaming cleanser which I like and find really gentle on my skin. So being that I needed a moisturizer I figured I’d continue along with the brand. I’ve also heard loads of rave reviews about their Micellar Water so I picked that up as well, along with some Rite Aid brand cleansing pads for application purposes.

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**For my guilty pleasure buys- meaning lip products and nail polish we kept it simple-

Sinful Colors- and LA Girl.

Sinful colors is my jam; cheap line and has a variety of colors.

In fact at my birthday dinner one of my friends was wearing the color “Let’s Talk” on her nails (the deep electric purple color pictured above) and I made a mental note to pick it up because I was obsessed, it’s a color you can just spot from across the room.

The LA Girl pick is a first for me trying out this brand, but it was there and I thought this shade GNL842-“Extra! Extra!” could pair well with the lighter frosty purple color “Let Me Go” or just by itself for the upcoming Spring season.

I also picked up this wet n wild eyeshadow palette in the Shade A229-“Coming In Latte.”

How gorgeous are these colors?

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I have really been into the golds and browns lately, and this is just a gorgeous Palette and I am so excited to try it out!

Last but not least lip products were my last splurge items which I found in Walgreens. I featured a wet n wild Velvet Matte Lip Color in a prior post, which you can see how I styled the look HERE. And so I picked up this more muted berry color for a more natural look in the shade A366- “Berry Tales.”

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What a nice neutral pink to pair with the eye shadow palette!

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And I paired it with wet n wild’s megaslicks Balm Stain in the shade 161A- “Made You Pink”

So here’s to my exciting new adventure into trying out these new products. I can’t wait to try them and create fun new looks. And thank you to my Aunt Linda for the generous birthday gift, I certainly put it to good use and only had to add 20 extra cents. Now that’s impressive! 😉 #ShopSmart #LookForTheDeals

*All crappy cell phone pics belong to yours truly.*

-<3-

Barbie Evolves…Mattel bringing its A game

February 7, 2016February 5, 2016michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I’m a Barbie girl in a Barbie world, (sorry I couldn’t resist.)

Anyway… aside from that 90’s pop song being the greatest thing EVER, the world isn’t a Barbie World, and we are NOT Barbies. At least not the sculpted versions, we have been conditioned to believe are perfect and something to aspire to.

But as we grow and human nature catches up to corporate business, we see a change on the horizon. As you grow older I think your sense of self reflection gets stronger and you realize what’s really important in life. Heart is important. So why not instill that in the younger generation from the minute they are able to play with these iconic dolls.

Last week, I saw all the news about Barbie getting a makeover, and I was LOVING what I was seeing. What a changing world it is, that we live in. As Barbie Evolves…Mattel is bettering the iconic doll for future generations.

I loved Barbies as a kid, and even now all these years later, I still feel a connection to them. It takes me back to the days of my childhood. Where I would spend hours playing and being imaginative. Seeing the changes the companies are starting to realize need to be implemented to support healthier body image observance for young girls, is a really special thing. Granted, it took a while, but change is coming and it’s a groundbreaking move for Barbie lovers, like myself, to see.

-CUE RANT-

If you are not a fan or the change, you clearly don’t have a relationship with the toy, so get over it, and move on. Because this doesn’t concern you. Sorry… just reading the comments on the Barbie Facebook is so frustrating. If you don’t care about the change, why are you here looking it up? Why must you comment to say you don’t bother with Barbies? How is this change anything but good? I guess people will always have something to complain about.

-Ok, RANT OVER-

View my last Barbie’s Evolution turns into a Revolution post HERE .

Mattel is releasing its 2016 Barbie line, throughout this year. Some are even available for early purchase online.

On the Barbie.com website this is the statement featured about the new line-

Introducing the 2016 Barbie^® Fashionistas^™ Dolls. Releasing over time throughout the year, the line includes 4 body types- (Curvy, Tall, Petite, Original Barbie,) 7 skin tones, 22 eye colors, 24 hairstyles, and countless on-trend fashions and accessories. Shop now, exclusively at Mattel Shop.

Barbie.com also explains the reasons for the change, backing it up with a video.

THE EVOLUTION OF BARBIE-

Girls everywhere now have infinitely more ways to play out their stories and spark their imaginations through Barbie. Along with more overall diversity, we proudly add three new body types to our line. Here’s a look at why we did this, and the team that made it possible. #TheDollEvolves (SEE- video linked below)

Another video from Glamour Magazine that shows girls reacting to the new charge in Barbie, below:

Learn more about the new 2016 Barbie line HERE.

Like Barbie on Facebook for day to day updates and in-depth looks at the new and improved dolls.

360 degree viewing videos of the new dolls available on the Facebook page too!

“They’ll all be called Barbie, but it’s the curvy one—with meat on her thighs and a protruding tummy and behind—that marks the most startling change to the most infamous body in the world.” -TIME MAGAZINE

I want one of each, to put away for my future daughters, or nieces, or for my god daughter when you gets into Barbies which I selfishly hope is very soon! Haha! As I mentioned, I loved Barbies as a kid and I love that they are making Barbies more realistic and their beauty more attainable. It’s a great step in the right direction for inspiring positive body image for our young girls and future generations.

Is Ken going to be getting some realistic improvements next? I hope so. TODAY reports on the possibility. This looks so cool! If Barbie is looking more like real girls and women, shouldn’t Ken do the same and look more like real men, and boys? YES.

Everyone; men, women, girls, boys…we all come in all different shapes, sizes, heights, colors, ethnicities, some of us have curly hair, some of us have straight hair, some of us have beauty marks, some of us have freckles, and we all express our creativity through how we choose to dress. No one is perfect, but we are all unique. And there is a beauty in diversity. If everyone looked the same, like all the Barbies used to, the world would be a very boring place. I love that there are White, Black, Hispanic/Tan, and Asian Barbies in this new line. It’s a beautiful thing to see a reflection of our realistic world in these toys. Looking at this line of Barbies, their features are more human, they look like real people you’d pass on the street.

Because every little girl (or boy) playing with these dolls, just wants to feel accepted. To know that someone out there gets them and looks or feels like they look or feel. It’s human nature to want to feel that sense of connection to the world around you. Even as adults we want to feel accepted in our environment and when we look around and feel like maybe we stick out or we feel like we don’t fit in, it can cause us to feel badly about ourselves. That’s the same situation with children. The toys they play with mean the world to them. It’s the creative world they get to live in and make up stories. So if a doll looks like them, they get to play a more realistic version of that world. And feel that if Barbie can “be anything” which is the whole story behind Barbie and her million careers, then they can be anything and do anything. If Barbie isn’t perfect, they don’t feel like they have to be.

Rock on Barbie, Ken. Be you. Do Your Thang. (Words to live by…Thanks *NSYNC. and yes I changed the title to Thang, because I just thought it was more effective than Thing. haha!)

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Which new Barbie and Ken do you find most inspired? Which is most like you? Personally speaking I really dig the curvy Barbies, with the tan complexion and brown hair. I feel she looks most like me. Although I gotta admit the fact that some dolls have hazel eyes now, is kinda awesome too. And I love the blue hair and other funky colors too. Super cool! So let’s start a conversation, what do you guys think? Tell me in the comments below!

*I do not take credit for any images or videos/songs used in this post.*

-<3-

Mini Drugstore Haul-Products Getting Too Expensive?

February 4, 2016February 3, 2016michelleleighwrites 4 Comments

So I’ve never really done a makeup haul of any kind on this blog. I’m not one to shop for name brand makeup, I’m a drugstore makeup buyer. I keep my makeup routine pretty simple, if and when I choose to wear it on a daily basis, it’s just the basics- Under eye Concealer, Coverstick, Powder, Lip Balm, Brows, and maybe mascara. Sometimes I won’t even use mascara, I’ll just curl my lashes, and lightly pinch my cheeks for some color, instead of adding blush.

So when I noticed the products that I use everyday started to finish and some were a bit old, I went to pick up a few key products from my local Rite Aid.

Products:

prices for haul post

Facial Cleanser- (was originally $8.29…so I was happy to catch this product on sale, I love that it’s a foam facial cleanser.)

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Make Up Wipes- (I buy the cheap ones! But still it only has 15 wipes, which is a bummer.)

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Cover Stick (in Medium 802)- (I happen to like wet n wild products, and I needed a new cover stick and didn’t feel like breaking the bank.)

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Under Eye Concealer (in Medium 130)- (I love this stuff, but wish it was cheaper, the applicator is really the perfect size and function to roll it onto those dark under eye circles.)

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Mascara (Mocha 034)- (this mascara is pure hypoallergenic and volumizing and suitable for green eyes. I have hazel eyes but depending on the day they can look green. So I went for this one. I also have sensitive eyes so hypoallergenic is a must for me.)

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Liquid Eyeliner- (This is a new purchase for me, I’m trying to strengthen my wing game, because it’s pretty non-existent. As they say practice makes perfect, so being that this is a test run product, I went for the cheapest I could find. Thank you wet n wild.)

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So I know these purchases are mostly pretty cheap, but the few that weren’t just kind of anger me. $9.49 for that tiny tube of concealer. Seriously. I paid $33.14 in total and only walked out with 6 items. Thankfully I had a $25 gift card so I didn’t have to add too much on, otherwise I probably would have gotten one or two things and left. In fact if I would have gone with my plan to purchase a new covergirl lipstick from their Oh Sugar line (which was $8) my total would have been in the $40 range FOR MAKEUP in a DRUGSTORE. It’s nonsense if you ask me. Which is why I steer clear from brand names. Drugstores should be ashamed for charging so much. Who’s with me?

What do you think of Drugstore prices on makeup?

*All photos are my own* #crappycellphonepics

-<3-

A Letter of Heartbreak from Adele

January 28, 2016January 28, 2016michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

Sometimes I do this thing…Read and see if you can figure it out! 😉

#AdeleShell

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Hello, it’s me.

I miss you. I’ve been sitting in my Hometown Glory, Chasing Pavements trying to Make You Feel My Love.

Don’t You Remember? When We Were Young. How you were always my One And Only, My Remedy.

It feels like a Million Years Ago, it saddens me you see.

Once upon a time, I Found a Boy one that would last, in love, a First Love, a gentleman.

If It Hadn’t Been For Love, I would have never been Hiding My Heart from you. Worried and scared to feel pain. I’d whisper to myself, He Won’t Go, he’d never leave. It’s okay.

Maybe I’m a Daydreamer. Maybe I’m Tired of feeling Crazy for You.

Rumour Has It, you’ve begun Turning Tables. All I Ask is that you keep an open mind, and consider the possibilities. Our love ain’t Water Under the Bridge, hold me like I’m more than just a friend.

Take It All, my Sweetest Devotion.

If it seems like something you cannot do, if you’re gonna let me down, let me down gently. I hope you have your memories.

Set Fire To The Rain watch it pour as I touch your face.

Give me a memory I can use.

To remind you of how I can no longer keep our Love in the Dark.

There is so much space between us.

But I’ll Be Waiting here patiently, singing you my Love Song.

We could have had it all, this I know.

But here I am, Rolling In The Deep upon the River Lea, I blame it on the River Lea.

All the memories.

I’ve saved the Best for Last to explain the Cold Shoulder, I’ve shown you in the past. I’ll share with you the worries the fears that turned into tears. The reasons that Melt My Heart to Stone.

My Same, my love, I wish to make things Right as Rain.

But we can’t go back, or so it seems. I pray for Someone Like You to walk into my world again, I bid you farewell with a kiss on the cheek.

As I courageously whisper Send My Love (To Your New Lover). Treat her better.

Love, Adele-Shell ❤

#AdeleShell

Some Adele Inspired Selfies

[make-up , hair, and outfit]

#dontjudge 😉

Adele Make-Up Tips:

Create a somewhat “flawless” face, add bronzer & blush

Fill in your brows, brush them up

Winged dark black liner on lower and upper water line as well as several coats of mascara

Beige, nude, light brown eye shadows

Nude lipstick and gloss

Adele Hair Tips:

Use second day hair

Dry shampoo, mousse, & hairspray

Blow dry top center of head

Flip head over to blow dry

Tease crown

Flip head back over

Tousle with hands until you find desired look

Adele Outfit Tips:

Black long sleeved shirt

Black furry/fuzzy vest

Faux Fur Scarf

*******************

How many Adele song titles did you catch? Can we just talk about how purely amazing 25 is…I’ve had it on repeat since I downloaded it!

*I take no credit for the few Adele song lyrics, many song titles, and Adele images used in my edits to create this Adele 19, 21, & 25 album song titles mash-up/lyrical poem/short story. Whatever you want to call it. Haha.*

*I do however, take credit for all selfies 😉 haha.*

-<3-

How I styled Lilac lipstick…

January 14, 2016January 13, 2016michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

Products used, & and a little bit of Tori Kelly fangirlin’ #herfirstmagazinecover

MAKE-UP & HAIR:

This eye shadow trio from wet n wild is called “I’m Getting Sunburned.” I thought these colors were so gorgeous and it was only about $4 in the drugstore, so I thought why not? The application was pretty self explanatory- the goldish/copper color is for the eyelid, the darker brown color is for the crease, and then the purple/pink color is for the brow bone. I basically just followed that guideline. I also dragged the copper gold color under my lower lash line and placed some in the inner corners of my eyes to brighten up these sleepy eyes of mine. Then I added some mascara, bronzer, blush and filled in my eyebrows. Lastly I added the staple…wet n wild’s velvet matte “Lie Lack” lip color crayon. I actually really like this lip pencil, and the quality of it. I paid about $4 for it in the drugstore as well, and I was pleased with the wear ability of it. I also think you can layer this and get more color out of it. I just did a light layer but it seems like it would build nicely into a darker shade.

I was running late for church and let’s be real my hair was going on it’s second day so it was a bit ragged so I did what any lazy girl in a rush would do, threw some dry shampoo in it and threw it up in a messy bun. I like to pull out some baby hairs on the sides of my face to add more of a messy look to it.

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OUTFIT OF THE DAY:

The makeup look was pretty bright, so I wanted the outfit to be a contrast of light and dark pieces. So, I wore black combat boots, black jeans, a black graphic t-shirt, a thin black cardigan, a leopard puffy vest, and a polka dot scarf. I love mixing patterns, I think it works because the colors are similar. Some people may not dig the mix and match vibe, and hey that’s okay. We’re all unique. I was just going to hang out with some friends from high school -a mini reunion of sorts- so I wanted a really comfortable, laid back look.

outfit edit

Would you rock a Lilac lip?

If so, how would you style it, what would you wear it with?

*All images are my own.*

-<3-

How I styled Blue lipstick…

January 11, 2016January 11, 2016michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

A few days before New Year’s Eve I remember thinking “I want to wear a really obnoxious color lipstick.” I thought a bright blue would be really, funky and fun for New Years. And I saw this YouTube video and thought, hey why the hell not?

I was just going to hang out with some family, I wasn’t really worried about feeling strange. In fact, I just embraced the freedom the bold color gave me, to strike up a conversation. In fact my grandfather was like “Oh is this a new thing? You look beautiful.” in his heavy Spanish accent. It was kind of hysterical.

This make-up look is very bold and so I thought it needed an edgy outfit to accompany it. I also think this look can work for a night out with friends. You can even swap it out for a funky black dress and some heels to make it fancier.

Here’s my New Year’s Eve look (in mostly crappy cellphone pictures) 😉

MAKE-UP & HAIR:

Blue lipsticks and hair jewels. Fun Fact: The iron ons were $1 in Mandees. And when they say they last for a week, believe it! I had to fight to get those suckers out, I washed my hair thoroughly 3 times and still had to brush them out with a comb and some conditioner once I got out of the shower. Got my dollars worth that’s for sure. AND the lipsticks were $3 each in a local beauty store. NOT BAD! (I’m dying to go back and by all the other funky colors, like Green and Purple!)

PLEASE EXCUSE– the abundance of weird selfie faces, you are about to endure, this blue lipstick went to my head. 😉 #alterego

My attempt at a winged eyeliner. Eh. My shadow is made up of a lot of bronze, gold, brown colors, with some black liner on the top and bottom water lines. I layered some gold glitter on top of the black liner on the top water line too. Also some silver glitter for the outer portion of my eyes.

Silver iron on hearts on one side of my hair- I just used a flat iron for this. The directions are included in the package, it’s pretty self explanatory. Although I had curled my hair, so when I had to flat iron the hearts onto my hair, it kind of lost it’s curl. And it was a bit difficult to try and curl it again, while the hearts were in. So I kind of just sprayed it and scrunched it up with my hands, just to get the body back.

Gold Hair Jewels on the other side. These were very easy to apply and to remove. They were just stick ons.

Gosh. So sassy. #missthangovahere

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FULL OUTFIT SHOTS:

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Basically I wore black skinny legged pants, a black and white mesh/lace shirt with a cross on it, a black sparkly sequined cardigan, and my funky pair of black and white boots. I paired my outfit with some gold jewelry to accessorize and I don’t know if you can tell by my nails were basically silver, and gold, with gold glittery sparkles.

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So I know this isn’t exactly a tutorial. I don’t really put a lot of emphasis on brands, I use what I have and just make it work for me. So you guys can totally do the same. And I don’t really tell you exactly how I did my make-up because I think everyone develops their own style and I’m not even close to beauty guru status, so I’m going to stick with doing things this way. I just watch tutorials on YouTube for tips and tricks. Some of my favorite beauty gurus include Carrie Rad, Ingrid Nielsen, Rachh Loves, Sierra Furtado, LaurDIY, Michelle Reed, TalkBeckyTalk, FleurdeForce, and of course the beautiful Bethany Mota.

This look is just to spark some inspiration for those looking to spice things up for a night on the town or for wherever you choose to go, or whatever you choose to do. Trust me, my parents were kinda like whoa, ok. And, my brother has issues with change, so he had something to say. But I didn’t let it bother me- it was super fun, and I felt kinda extra cool, because I knew it wasn’t about me doing it for attention. It was about me doing something cool and funky for me. I’ll admit I went a little overboard on the makeup and hair, but hey if I’m going to overdo the sparkly on any day, let it be New Year’s Eve, right?

I like to be different. I like to do things that are out of the box when it comes to fashion. I love experimenting. I love dressing up, and being festive for the holiday season. Every holiday you will find me in some kind of festive head dress. It’s fun to be weird, to be funky. I was always the shy girl as kid, and although I’ve come a long way, that still is a part of me. Regardless, I also think I’ve always had this attraction to strange trends and strange patterns, and things like that. I feel like I have a gypsy soul of sorts. I dance to my one drum, that I create the beat for.

Dare to be different. Turn a few heads.

Make 2016, your year to *sparkle*

****QUICK NOTE****

I will say the lipstick held up, and definitely had staying power. But if I ate or drank anything instead of just gradually blending off like regular lipstick, this matte finish kind of streaked and lingered, to the point where I either had to reapply or just take it off completely by wiping it off with a tissue. That was kind of frustrating to be talking and feel like your blue lipstick was all wonky. But never the less, its the price you pay for cheap lipstick, no biggy. I still enjoyed rocking my blue lips. When can I wear them again? 😉

**********

So would you rock blue lips?

*All images are my personal images…(although I stole some from my dad’s camera ;))*

-<3-

2015 Fall Fashion Inspiration

September 21, 2015September 21, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Fall is literally right around the corner. And I’m going to be extremely common for just a second when I tell you this is my favorite time of year. My favorite things about fall are the crisp air (even if you wouldn’t know it because it’s still hot in NYC. I can feel the weather wanting to change.) I love the darker colors. I can wear black, and not bake in the heat. I love the promise of fun filled holidays and fun events. And last but not least I do love me some pumpkin flavored stuff. I’m not a fanatic about it, but I do think it’s a fall staple. So let’s get down to business here, shall we?

My 2015 Fall Fashion Inspiration

Beanies, Leather Jackets, Flannels, Converse…

Cozy Sweaters, Ripped Jeans, Boots…

Black on black outfits…

Birkenstocks with socks…

I normally cringe at the idea of wearing socks with sandals. However, I bought a pair of knock off Birkenstocks this summer and I feel like I only wore them a few times. So I would like to continue to wear them through the fall. In fact the styling of the fall look is super cute. I can’t wait to give it a try.

Scarves are my stable for the fall. I have one for every outfit. And they are just a really simple way to add some fashion sense to your outfits, and keep you warm at the same time.

Big floppy hats…

I love the look of these hats and seeing as how it’s often too hot for me to function in the summer for me to leave hats on for too long, fall is much more suitable to rock these. I gotta get one!

The darker nail polish and makeup tones…as we speak my nails are black and I can’t wait to paint them Essie’s Wicked next!

The tulle/ballerina tutu skirt, I have always been in awe of the Carrie Bradshaw fashion. She manages to pull off the most bizarre things. And these skirts are so beautiful to me, getting a nice black one and pairing it with some nice pumps for a night out would be gorgeous!

Tori Kelly Curls…

Oh my god I am OBSESSED with this girl, with her voice, and her laidback fashion. BUT her hair is in a league of it’s own and I have been trying to replicate it, but I think I need a crimper. It’s just not big enough. For this look; the bigger the hair the better.

Laidback dance rehearsal style outfits…

I’m not gonna lie, I have an obsession with dancer wardrobe. When Bethany Mota was on Dancing With The Stars two seasons ago, I would always love her rehearsal outfits. She always looked so cool and comfortable, but still really cute. Same goes for Jenna Dewan’s character in Step Up. I was always so in love with her outfits. In fact I’m a big fan of leg warmers, and I wear them a lot. The only ingredient missing is…I wish I was a dancer. I mean I love to dance and used to be in dance class as a kid, that counts, right?

So there you have it, my Fall Fashion Inspiration.

What are some things you are excited to try this fall, let me know what I missed!

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images used.*

My Top 8 Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen Movies + Style Steal

August 13, 2015August 11, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

8. The Little Rascals*

Alfalfa is wooing Darla and his “He-Man-Woman-Hating” friends attempt to sabotage the relationship. – via IMDb

(*I know they are only in it for like 10 seconds, but I freakin’ LOVE this movie!)

7. New York Minute

One day in New York City, as Jane Ryan tries out for an overseas college program and her sister Roxy schemes to meet her favorite punk rockers, a series of mishaps throws their day into chaos. In order for them both to accomplish their goals, the normally adversarial sisters decide to unite against the forces around them. – via IMDb

6. Getting There

Taylor and Kylie Hunter are celebrating their 16th birthday and now they are licensed to drive. They plan to go to Salt Lake City, Utah with their friends for the 2002 Winter Olympics. When they stop at a local restaurant on their way, they notice that their car is stolen and their adventure becomes a misadventure when they board the wrong plane to San Diego. They make it to Salt Lake City but they don’t make it to the Olympics. Now they decide to create their own fun to celebrate their 16th birthday. – via IMDb

5. The Challenge

It’s an action adventure/adventure comedy. They play estranged twins with very opposite personalities. Lizzie is very focused and driven, while Shane is more relaxed, but concerned about the environment. Both girls are chosen for a Survivor-like popular game show with college scholarships as the prize. – via IMDb

4. Our Lips Are Sealed

Follow Mary-Kate and Ashely halfway around the world in this Aussie adventure jam packed with non-stop action, laughs, super spies and surfer guys. The extraordinary escapade begins when the girls eyewitness a crime and are forced to go undercover in the FBI Witness Protection Program. Unfortunately, not even the FBI can save the girls from their own blabbermouths as they blow their cover in town after town, until there’s only one hiding place left – Australia! – via IMDb

3. When in Rome

Leila and Charli Hunter are in Rome to participate in a Summer Intern Program. After they begin their jobs, they are immediately fired due to careless mishaps. But Derek Hammond, who owns the company, decides to re-instate Leila and Charli. But while in Rome, Leila and Charli find true romance that will take them joyriding to see the sights throughout the city of Rome. – via IMDb

2. Holiday in the Sun

Sisters Alex and Madison are whisked away to the Bahamas for winter break but soon find themselves crossing paths with a man smuggling stolen artifacts. – via IMDb

1. Winning London

When Chloe and Riley Lawrence are invited to London to participate in the International Model UN competition, they enjoy seeing the sights and find romance with cute British boys. – via IMDb

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***BONUS***

STYLE STEAL:

LISTEN as you read!

Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen were idolized for me growing up. I used to love watching their movies, their tv shows, reading their books, I even had their dolls. I was always intrigued by their style and how they always looked so cool. In every film the girls would have fun style and funky trendy names to match.

I was always an Ashley fan, so I am going to try and recreate Alex’s summer style
who was played by Ashley Olsen in….

Holiday In The Sun

OUTFIT INSPIRATION:

MY RECREATION:

HOW I ACHIEVED THIS LOOK:

MLW- just a shout-out to MichelleLeighWrites ❤

I basically had to make the shirt.

I used a white wife beater.

I cut a V-shape near the chest, to match the style of Ashley’s shirt.

I just used a black and a red sharpie and drew some similar doodles like Ashley has on her shirt.

I found that drawing on the wife beater was a bit difficult because of the ridges so I drew dots to form my shape and then went over them, connecting them. It just made it neater. *Also I put a piece of scrapbook paper between the two layers because I didn’t want the doodles to bleed through to the back.

I also trimmed a bit off the bottom of the shirt too.

I hung it to dry, just for a bit before putting it on. And because I needed to air out that permanent marker smell, lol.

My hands suffered a few causalities… 😉

Then I just paired the shirt with a few pieces from my closet; a bright red skirt, a black cropped tank and a pair of white skips. I kind of felt like my red skirt was a bit short, I would probably wear leggings or tights under it if I were to wear it out. So I also showed a red pair of jeans as an alternative. But if you have red shorts, that’s what Ashley herself is wearing. I didn’t have any so I worked with what I did have.

I just scrunched my damp hair with some moose and hairspray, curled the front two pieces of my hair to frame my face like Ashley has her hair. I added some lip gloss and !Viola! I didn’t really have any other makeup on, Ashley’s look is very laid back casual.

Do you have a favorite Ashley or Mary-Kate fashion look?

** I broke out the trusty old digital camera for these pics. I know they aren’t the best, but hey at least it’s a step up from just using my cellphone, right? #Babysteps

*I only take credit for the images in my recreation, I do not take credit for any other

screencaps or other images used.*

So what’s your favorite Mary-Kate & Ashley movie?

-<3-

90’s+ Playlist & “Joey Potter” Style Steal

July 23, 2015July 23, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

90’s+ playlist (and by + I mean some may be from the early 2000s, but who cares!) that will give you the feels…

1. “Mmm bop”- Hanson

2. “Killing me softly” – The Fugees ft. Lauryn Hill “Doo-Wop (That Thing)- Lauryn Hill

3. “Poison”- Bell Biv Devoe

4. “I’ll be”- Edwin McCain

5. “Believe”- Cher

6.“I don’t want to wait”- Paula Cole

7. “Tearin’ up my heart”- *NSYNC & “Music of my heart”- Gloria Estefan ft. *NSYNC

8. “Wannabe”- The Spice Girls

9. “…Baby One More Time”- Britney Spears

10. “Genie in a bottle”- Christina Aguilera

11. “Hand in my pocket” & “Ironic”- Alanis Morissette

12. “Angel” & “I will remember you”- Sarah McLachlan

13. “How do I live”- Leann Rimes

14. “Too close”- Next

15. “Truly, Madly, Deeply” & “I knew I loved you”- Savage Garden

16. “Kiss me”- Sixpence None The Richer

17. “Blue (DaBaDee)”- Eiffel 65

18. “Red Red Wine”- UB40

19. “All Star”- Smash Mouth

20. “All the small things”- Blink 182

21. “Torn”- Natalie Imbruglia

22. “Barbie Girl”- Aqua

23. “Tubthumping” – Chumbawamba (wait what? click it and you’ll remember it!)

24. “White Flag”- Dido

25. “The Sign” – Ace of Base

26. “I want it that way”- Backstreet Boys

27. “You gotta be”- Des’ree

28. “Never had a dream come true”- S Club

29. “Buffy theme”- Nerf Herder

30. “My heart will go on”- Celine Dion

31. “Remember The Time” & “You Are Not Alone”- Michael Jackson

32. “Waterfalls” & “No Scrubs”- TLC

Do you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Because I do! Each of these songs I can associate with a memory. Growing up dancing around my living room with my brother to the buffy theme song, my hair in two pigtail braids whipping around. Willow Smith I Whipped My Hair Back And Forth Way Before You Did. 😉 Singing and making up dance routines with my best friend in her basement. Hearing Michael Jackson music throughout the house as my mom cleaned. Or just simply listening to music on my disc-men. That shit barely fit in my coat pocket. Isn’t that the point of music, to inflict emotion of a memory? A moment in time that was precious to you and probably still is.

Now some of these were very big 90’s tv show soundtrack factors…

In fact many of these may have even graced the scenes of 90’s teen drama Dawson’s Creek, which I am currently obsessing over, thanks to abcfamily playing reruns.

Ah the 90’s; the time when fashion was a little underrated and relaxed and actually attainable.

Queen of the side glance

In walks Joey Potter with her laidback tomboy chic look. She spoke fluent sarcasm, and was the

official queen of the “side glance.” With her crazy home life, and impressive brainiac skills which was her only ticket out of this small town. Joey was head over heels in love with her best friend Dawson. She spent her days pining for him, while she harbored interests in art and passed the time away working in the Capeside Ice House as a waitress. I have to admit I am secretly jealous of her little work aprons and effortless tomboy looks. I’ve always wanted one of those cool summer jobs that seemed so chill, but kinda trendy.

Joey’s look was pretty wash and go. Simple highwaisted jeans, jean or cargo-like shorts, plaid or flannel shirts, plain tees, and tennis shoes. Minimal to no accessories. She occasionally wore earrings. It wasn’t until her sister forced her into a burgundy colored lipstick. (and by force I mean actually grabbed her face and put it on her) that Joey even considered the idea that makeup exists. A little mascara and you’ve got a Joey inspired fresh face. Her hair on the other hand gets a little sassy from time to time, with effortless updos.

Outfit Inspiration

Makeup Inspiration

Hair Inspiration

Here’s my recreation of a Joey Potter 90’s look… #crappycellphonepics Holla!!! 😉

Here’s my insecure my name is Joey pose 😉

*For my Joey Potter inspired look*

-I had things in my own closet that I paired together-

A light denim pair of shorts

A plain gray tank top

*A plaid shirt (with the sleeves cut off)-

*which as you can tell I switched things up from tying it at the front or just leaving it loose.

A pair of imitation “toms” (lol)

No accessories

For my hair, I just threw it up with a clip (so 90’s) and pulled some strands out like she did. My makeup as I said, was the burgundy colored lipstick, some concealer, some powder, filled in my brows, added mascara, and an eyelid primer for good measure. Really basic.

It was fun playing around with Joey’s style, it’s super chill and gives me a break from my at times fashionista ways.

What can I say, I’m just a Joey looking for her Pacey…;)

….Because spoiler alert, she soon looks past the hateful banter she shares with a certain other male friend and falls for Dawson’s much sweeter, much more charming, and far less self absorbed best friend Pacey Witter….I have a serious crush on Pacey, because he’s kind of perfect #PACEYSCREEK I blame my expectations of men on television.

*I do not take credit for the Dawson’s Creek photos, all others are my own.*

So were you #teampacey or #teamdawson?

And what was your favorite 90’s throwback song? If I missed any LET ME KNOW! 😀

-<3-

Farm-girl Party Theme Look

July 2, 2015July 1, 2015michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

My goddaughter’s 2nd birthday was in May and since we have two other babies in the family who were also turning two, my family did one big party for all 3 little kiddies. It was a farm themed party! Now if you follow along with my blog regularly, I’m sure you’ve seen me post things about the parties I host. And you also know I love a good theme. I LOVE to dress up to match the themes, so I was all in for this farm themed party.

Here’s how I transformed into a farm-girl/cowgirl. Hair, Makeup, Outfit & Accessories. ❤ (via crappy cellphone pictures as per usual.) 😉

Howdy Partners 😉

HAIR:
I washed my hair the night before, and left it in a bun with some product in it overnight; just some mousse and hairspray. This was just so that I would wake up with some body to my hair. In the morning I just parted my hair to the side in the front, and down the center in the back, and braided my hair into pigtails. I like to use two hair ties per braid, one for the top of the braid and one for the bottom, I just think it was a cleaner look, and held my braids in all day, due to my thin hair. But to each their own. This was super simple, and in my opinion a signature farm girl inspired hair look. To make the look at little sweeter, I just pulled out some pieces like my bangs and curled them to frame my face. Add some hairspray and you are done.

MAKEUP:

For my makeup, I kept things pretty simple. The eyes are just a mixture of golds and browns. I like to use whites to brighten up the under eyes, the inner corners, and the eyebrow bone. Add some mascara, and fill in those eyebrows. My lipstick was just some light pink lipstick and some pink gloss, that I dabbed on with my fingers to make look more natural. To make this look really pop, add some bronzer and some blush. This creates a really pretty glow, and it almost makes you look like you’ve been kissed by the sun as you work hard on your farm related chores. 😉

OUTFIT/ACCESSORIES:

A plaid shirt, I opted for a sleeveless one, since the party was in June. And I went for one with blues and reds. For some reason that’s what comes to mind when I think of a farm girl; milking cows and feeding hens on the farm. I paired that with some knit blue jeans that I cuffed up a few times at the ankles. Now I couldn’t find any cowgirl boots, so I opted for these toms look-a-likes; in a kaki green color. My accessories included a big tan snakeskin belt, a red handkerchief tied to my belt hoop, and of course the key to pulling this look off; a tan cowgirl hat.

As for jewelry I kept it simple, with home wooden hued and turquoise pieces. My earrings were just some wooden oval-shaped hanging earrings. My necklace is just this brown and gold-colored medallion on a brown felt chain. And I had on some simple brown, and black rope friendship-esque bracelets along with some bangles and such.

Whenever a party has a theme, my advice is to embrace the hell out of it. It’s super fun, and gives you a reason to step out of your comfort zone. Play the role. It only adds to your unique personality.

*All images belong to me, please refrain from using elsewhere.*

#whywouldyoustealmycrappyphotosanyway

😉

-<3-

Michelle Leigh Writes

A safe place for the written word <3 New Posts Two Days A Week

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2015 Fall Fashion Inspiration

My Top 8 Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen Movies + Style Steal

90’s+ Playlist & “Joey Potter” Style Steal

Farm-girl Party Theme Look