L.A. Girl Makeup

I've seen everyone on YouTube and all over the blogs using LA Girl cosmetics.  I finally got my hands on a couple of their products during an impromptu pit stop at Ricky's in NYC.  First of all, talk about being super budget friendly - most items are $5 or less and the pigmentation (of the matte lipsticks) was spectacular!

I spotted a couple of the cult favorites like the Matte Pigment Glosses (I can't wrap my head around that concept...matte and gloss?) and the Glazed Lip Paints (the packaging looks identical to the Too Faced melted lipsticks, pretty sure that wasn't an accident) -- but what really caught my eye were the Matte Flat Velvet Lipsticks.  The colors ranged from crazy avant garde shades in deep blue tones to bright fuschias and vampy reds all the way to wearable neutrals like the one I picked up called, Snuggly (GLC812).  At only $4, you will want to buy every single color.  Can't believe I was able to hold back and only get one!  I'm fairly certain I'll be back for more (GLC822 Runway is next on my list, a deep coffee brown perfect for fall/winter).

The concealers came in a wide range of shades (with both cool pink undertones and warm yellow undertones).  I counted roughly 16 different shades on display which is such a rarity for budget brands! Another huge plus, these are super pigmented concealers and they're only $5!  I picked out the color Pure Beige (GC976) after testing out about 3 shades that looked to be about my skintone.  At such a low price point, you can't really go wrong - if it's too light, use it as a highlight; Too dark, use it in the summer when you're skin is a bit more sun-kissed.

Loving the brush tip on the Pro.Conceal HD concealers!  Great for on the go touch-ups!

Matte Flat Velvet Lipstick in Snuggly - a great mauve for everyday wear.  The color swatch on the lid is also pretty accurate for this shade.

Looking forward to giving these products a go next week!  Have you tried L.A. Girl makeup?  If so, what are your favorites?  I'd love to read about your recommendations in the comments below!

Xx,
Alexa

Quarterly Chop?!

My previous haircut posts have been called "annual chops" but after this most recent cut...I think they may become QUARTERLY instead!

I was craving a change and after an impulsive decision last week, I picked up the phone after work and scheduled an appointment for the very next day (my day off work) at 11AM *the first appointment of the day*.  I lucked out that my favorite hairstylist was free on such short notice. Shout out to Grace from Tomoko Shima on 14th Street in Chelsea - she is literally the sweetest and I highly recommend her if you're in NYC! 

I brought a screen shot of Julianne Hough below.  Julianne is literally my girl hair crush, she can literally do no wrong when it comes to hairstyles and she pulls them all off so effortlessly...

How adorbs is she? 

And here is my rendition.... A mirror-selfie before heading out for drinks last weekend.  I just love an all black outfit.  Some people think it's boring but I happen to think that it's incredibly chic yet understated and classic.  The cut outs on this fun over-sized T makes it a little bit interesting and sexy without baring too much skin.

Top: Urban Outfitters / Pants: Kenneth Cole / Sandals: Zara / Purse: Carolo Pazolini

This is the first time I have gone this short with my hair and I'm absolutely loving it.  There was something cathartic about chopping off my hair and I really enjoyed that feeling.  I've gained a renewed sense of self - a confidence that I can't describe.  I feel a little modern-day Audrey Hepburn when I'm walking down the street and I have to say --- I'm not mad about it (lol).  

Not to mention, having a fun hairstyle has made me a bit more daring when it comes to my outfit choices.  I can feel a little shopping binge coming on as well - somehow I always feel the need update my closet whenever I make a big change with my hair.  Does this happen to you too?? haircut induced shopping.. lol

Hope your week is winding down nicely!  Happy almost Friday!

Xx,

Alexa