beauty
hair
How I Make My Hair Last
I used to feel like I had to wash my hair every single day in order for it to style correctly and not look dirty or oily. I had no concept of the idea of second or third day hair unless I was sick or didn't have access to a shower (or sink, at the very least!) to wash it. Lucky for me and my hair, I figured out a routine that allows me to get 3-4 days out of a hair washing.
Spoiler alert: it has a lot to do with dry shampoo.
9 times out of 10, if I'm showering and styling my hair, it's happening in the morning. So, by time night rolls around and I'm getting ready for bed, I do two things. First, I use Living Proof Perfect hair Day Dry Shampoo around my hairline and near my crown. After it's sprayed at the root, I just work it in with my finger tips. I don't use much, as I always use this dry shampoo right after curling my hair. My hair is pretty lifeless on its own, so this dry shampoo adds a good bit of grit while also allowing my hair to last a few days. So, I work the Living Proof Dry Shampoo in and then I will lightly tease my hair - near my part and crown. I like to give it a little volume boost because I'm about to put it up in a ponytail and I want to preserve as much volume as possible for the next day.
Second, I pull my hair up to about my crown and put it in a ponytail using this silk hair tie. I loop the tie around just twice, as I don't want it too tight. If my hair is pretty taught and flat against my scalp in the pony, I'll loosen the tie a bit to allow my hair to keep that volume. You can see how my ponytail usually looks:
Because I keep it quite loose, it's not uncommon for me to wake up and have my ponytail halfway out. I'm a mover when I sleep, so it works its way out sometimes. As long as my hair is laying across the top of my pillow and not smashed under my head, it's okay!
The key ingredient that I recommend for both your hair and skin's sake is a silk pillowcase (here's a budget-friendly option with great reviews). It's gentle on your hair and skin. I've been using one for a couple years! While I think there are other factors at play, my skin and hair have been the best ever in that time, so I believe the silk pillowcase plays a part in that.
After waking, I'll let down my ponytail (or what's left of it!) and typically just add a little volume by teasing. I don't add in anymore dry shampoo since it worked through the night to absorb the oil.
These simple steps allow me to get 3-4 days out of my hairstyle, which is amazing! Days 1 and 2, I will typically wear my hair down and curled, like normal. By day 3, I may do something different with it - either a messy bun or a half-up style. Day 4, if I make it here, I'll definitely have it up in a bun or occasionally wear a scarf or hat, since it's usually pretty limp by this point.
It's been a game changer for me to be able to get several days out of a hair washing - saves me time and makes my morning routine super easy most days! In case you wonder what my hair actually looks like on the second day, this is day 2 hair.
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style
High-Low Styling
If you were to come rifle through my closet, you would see that it's a good mix of higher-end, investment pieces and budget-friendly items. There are certain things that are well worth the extra money, like footwear, classic handbags and luxe fabrics - all things that will last through many seasons and can be worn again and again. I won't invest in a piece that is super trendy or very occasion-specific because I know that I'll wear it once or twice and then it will just sit in my closet. I will, however, spring for a fun pattern or one-season item if it's easy on the wallet and adds a fun twist to my wardrobe, like these embroidered booties!
Walmart is a great destination for this type of mix-and-match shopping! Between their everyday shop with basics and tons of budget-friendly options and the Lord & Taylor Shop with premium brands, it's the place to go to build an outfit like this. There's a great mix of closet staples, trendy pieces and a range of price points that make it easy to find whatever you may be looking for. Until December 13th, the Lord & Taylor shop has their Friends & Family Sale happening, which means an extra 30% off almost everything!
This entire look was created by shopping at Walmart and I love how it turned out. I mixed staples, like these leggings and long-sleeve tee, with this super warm poncho and fun embroidered booties. I love the shape of this crossbody bag, so I thought it would be the perfect finishing touch. The best part is that each of these pieces can be used in different outfits and styled in other ways. I love the idea of styling this poncho with a dress like this, too!
I'm a firm believer that your clothes can and should be a reflection of your personality, creativity, and all-around style. Styling an outfit is how I express my creativity every day, whether it's a simple jeans and a tee look or something more interesting like this. It's all about being creative with how you use what you have and putting together something that you love and feel good in!
I'm a firm believer that your clothes can and should be a reflection of your personality, creativity, and all-around style. Styling an outfit is how I express my creativity every day, whether it's a simple jeans and a tee look or something more interesting like this. It's all about being creative with how you use what you have and putting together something that you love and feel good in!
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Thanks to Walmart for sponsoring this post.
coffee conversations
TGIF, am I right?! It's been a long, but productive week as I'm quickly approaching Christmas break. I usually give myself a pretty good chunk of time off of work over the holidays, so every workday is with that mental break in sight. This time of year tends to be pretty crazy (for most people) - work deadlines, events, preparing for travel and holidays, all the things happening at once. I know I'll miss the routine and schedule of my work week when I have time off, but I also know how important it is to take a break and recharge, so I'm looking forward to it!
We're officially an Instant Pot family! I ordered one when it was on sale on Black Friday. My first go at it was a major fail because one of the essential ingredients in the recipe had gone bad, BUT I'm anxious to try it again. I feel like it could be a game changer, if I let it be. I'm usually not one for a crockpot or many kitchen gadgets, but was too intrigued by this to pass it up. I also bought this cookbook, which looks to have some really great recipes in it!
Madewell is still running their 20% off sale! Plus, the Transport Collection is 20% off right now, which is rarely discounted. Here's a couple of my picks, including this sweatshirt I can't stop wearing:
Mike is finally, 10 years later, watching the entire series of The Office. He has multiple lines that he quotes to me everyday and I can hear him laughing at night from his "office" while he's watching it. I'd like to think I had some small part in him finally experiencing this joy in life 😉
I just ordered this turtleneck last night and can't wait for it to arrive! I wanted it last year, but was late to the game and it was already sold out for the season. So, when I realized it was back and currently on sale, I couldn't resist. I'll definitely share when it gets here!
Have a great weekend!
Coffee Conversations
TGIF, am I right?! It's been a long, but productive week as I'm quickly approaching Christmas break. I usually give myself a pretty good chunk of time off of work over the holidays, so every workday is with that mental break in sight. This time of year tends to be pretty crazy (for most people) - work deadlines, events, preparing for travel and holidays, all the things happening at once. I know I'll miss the routine and schedule of my work week when I have time off, but I also know how important it is to take a break and recharge, so I'm looking forward to it!
We're officially an Instant Pot family! I ordered one when it was on sale on Black Friday. My first go at it was a major fail because one of the essential ingredients in the recipe had gone bad, BUT I'm anxious to try it again. I feel like it could be a game changer, if I let it be. I'm usually not one for a crockpot or many kitchen gadgets, but was too intrigued by this to pass it up. I also bought this cookbook, which looks to have some really great recipes in it!
Madewell is still running their 20% off sale! Plus, the Transport Collection is 20% off right now, which is rarely discounted. Here's a couple of my picks, including this sweatshirt I can't stop wearing:
Mike is finally, 10 years later, watching the entire series of The Office. He has multiple lines that he quotes to me everyday and I can hear him laughing at night from his "office" while he's watching it. I'd like to think I had some small part in him finally experiencing this joy in life 😉
I just ordered this turtleneck last night and can't wait for it to arrive! I wanted it last year, but was late to the game and it was already sold out for the season. So, when I realized it was back and currently on sale, I couldn't resist. I'll definitely share when it gets here!
Have a great weekend!
beauty
holiday 2018
If you're still searching for a great gift for the beauty-lover in your life, I've got you covered! ULTA Beauty has great gift sets this holiday season for every kind of beauty junkie - makeup, skincare, tools, you name it. The first one that caught my eye was the Stila With Flying Colors Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick Set because I love this liquid lipstick.
The set comes with six deluxe-size shades in a great range of colors, including my all-time favorite, Baci. I'm wearing Rubino here and it is the perfect "Christmas red"! The kit is a perfect mix of nude pinks and bold reds, any of which can be utilized this holiday season. Not only are you giving her something fun to open this Christmas, but it's the gift that will keep on giving throughout the year as she changes her lip color with the seasons!
One of my favorite things to do this time of year is to stock up on a couple extra gifts to have on-hand. In case we get invited to a last minute holiday party, a gift exchange, or I make quick plans with a girlfriend, I like to have a little stockpile of these ready-to-gift options that I can grab as I'm heading out the door. I keep a box in our storage closet that I add all the small gifts that I collect over time, so that I have them all in one place. They also work really well as that final piece to a gift you're putting together! I've got my eye on a few more of the sets and holiday gifts that are currently available at ULTA, which I rounded up below.
Holiday Gift Sets with Ulta
If you're still searching for a great gift for the beauty-lover in your life, I've got you covered! ULTA Beauty has great gift sets this holiday season for every kind of beauty junkie - makeup, skincare, tools, you name it. The first one that caught my eye was the Stila With Flying Colors Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick Set because I love this liquid lipstick.
The set comes with six deluxe-size shades in a great range of colors, including my all-time favorite, Baci. I'm wearing Rubino here and it is the perfect "Christmas red"! The kit is a perfect mix of nude pinks and bold reds, any of which can be utilized this holiday season. Not only are you giving her something fun to open this Christmas, but it's the gift that will keep on giving throughout the year as she changes her lip color with the seasons!
One of my favorite things to do this time of year is to stock up on a couple extra gifts to have on-hand. In case we get invited to a last minute holiday party, a gift exchange, or I make quick plans with a girlfriend, I like to have a little stockpile of these ready-to-gift options that I can grab as I'm heading out the door. I keep a box in our storage closet that I add all the small gifts that I collect over time, so that I have them all in one place. They also work really well as that final piece to a gift you're putting together! I've got my eye on a few more of the sets and holiday gifts that are currently available at ULTA, which I rounded up below.
1. Tartelette 2 in Bloom Eyeshadow Palette 2. Tarte Double Duty Set 3. Origins High-Potency Renewal Set 4. First Aid Beauty Holiday Cheer Kit 5. Philosophy Snow Angel Duo 6. Narsissist Wanted Velvet Lip Glide Set 7. Tarte Full Face of Fab Color Collection 8. IT Make A Night Of It! Brush Set
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Thanks to ULTA Beauty for sponsoring this post!
personal
As of today, I'm officially in my last year of my twenties! Year 28 was great - we bought our first house, made a great group of friends, had another successful year of business, and celebrated our first wedding anniversary! It was a year of settling into our new life in Virginia and our marriage. There were a few growing pains along the way, but it was generally a joy-filled year, which I'm incredibly grateful for. I'm hopeful that 29 will be a continuation of the good stuff!
I'm going to enjoy the day off of work (mostly) and give myself a little time to rest and recharge. Mike has some things planned for today -- all I know is that I should be ready to leave the house later this morning. I'm looking forward to spending the day with him!
In the spirit of celebrating, I want to give away a few of my favorite things to one of you!
To enter, simply leave a comment on this blog post telling me your name, your favorite birthday memory and your email address. Winner will be randomly chosen later this week and contacted via the email address that is left in the comment.
Thanks for celebrating another birthday with me!
Twenty-Nine
I'm going to enjoy the day off of work (mostly) and give myself a little time to rest and recharge. Mike has some things planned for today -- all I know is that I should be ready to leave the house later this morning. I'm looking forward to spending the day with him!
In the spirit of celebrating, I want to give away a few of my favorite things to one of you!
To enter, simply leave a comment on this blog post telling me your name, your favorite birthday memory and your email address. Winner will be randomly chosen later this week and contacted via the email address that is left in the comment.
Thanks for celebrating another birthday with me!
inspiration
style
D R E S S E D U P
Three Holiday Outfit Ideas
With the holiday season in full swing, I thought it would be fun to share some outfit inspiration for any events of the season. Whether you have a family gathering to attend, a party with friends or a corporate celebration, it's a great time to pull out your fancier items and dress up a bit. I like to keep things more casual, but will even dress up those outfits with some fancy jewelry or a pair of shoes I don't wear much. What I love most about these options is that they're made up of items that can be worn for other occasions - you don't need to fill your closet up with things you can only wear once a year!
C A S U A L
GET THE LOOK
H&M Heart Sweater (similar option) | Madewell Skinny Jeans | Steve Madden Leopard Loafers | Madewell Leather Crossbody | EA Isabella Statement Earrings | Essie Gel Couture in Make The Cut | Burt's Bees Lipstick in Scarlet Soaked
H&M Heart Sweater (similar option) | Madewell Skinny Jeans | Steve Madden Leopard Loafers | Madewell Leather Crossbody | EA Isabella Statement Earrings | Essie Gel Couture in Make The Cut | Burt's Bees Lipstick in Scarlet Soaked
E D G Y
GET THE LOOK
BlankNYC Suede Moto Jacket | H&M Sequined Camisole | Madewell Button-Up Jeans | Walmart Booties | J.CREW Mini Satchel | EA Amelia Statement Ear Jackets | Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor | Maybelline Color Sensational in Siren in Scarlet
BlankNYC Suede Moto Jacket | H&M Sequined Camisole | Madewell Button-Up Jeans | Walmart Booties | J.CREW Mini Satchel | EA Amelia Statement Ear Jackets | Essie Gel Couture in Fairy Tailor | Maybelline Color Sensational in Siren in Scarlet
D R E S S E D U P
GET THE LOOK
Leith Ruched Long-Sleeve Dress | H&M Cardigan | Walmart Over-the-Knee Boots | Walmart Leopard Envelope Clutch | EA Crystal Bloom Statement Necklace | Essie Gel Couture in Rock the Runway | Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Perla
Your Guide to Cyber Monday Shopping
I feel like the Black Friday deals were really good this year, right? I was able to get a few gifts at a great price and feel a little bit on top of my game this year, which is unusual! If you're still shopping for yourself or for gifts, I compiled a list again, just like I did for Black Friday.
(over 40% off!)
This is a great gift for the reader in your life! I used an iPad mini for years with the Kindle app, which worked great. However, I decided to switch to the Kindle Paperwhite for a few reasons. It works in the sunlight (hello, vacation poolside reading), holds a charge for weeks, and is super lightweight, which is ideal for holding up in bed at night (a strange but important element).
I just ordered my first InstantPot and it's scheduled to be delivered today! I've been intrigued by it for months and decided to bite the bullet on Black Friday. I'm looking forward to learning how to use it - it seems like an amazing addition to your kitchen! I love to cook and spend time in the kitchen, but there are days that I want a home-cooked meal without spending an hour making it. I'm hopeful that this will be a great solution!
ELISABETH ASHLIE
20% off sitewide with code MONDAY
That includes candles, curated boxes...everything!
ELISABETH ASHLIE
20% off sitewide with code MONDAY
That includes candles, curated boxes...everything!
LOFT
50% off + FREE Shipping with code CYBER
I'll share the LOFT sale again because you guys always seem to shop it! This time around, I picked items that would work well as gifts for any girl this season:
ATHLETA
20% off with code BOOST
I almost exclusively wear this activewear. It's high-quality, fits well, and performs great! I particularly love these tights with pockets, this sports bra, and this sweatshirt (I have it and it's so soft!).
30% off everything + free shipping over $100
25% off everything online with code ITSWILD
I have these sneakers and wear them 4x a week - they're so comfortable!
50% off everything with code CYBER
I don't do a ton of shopping at J.Crew, but when sales like this come around, it's hard to ignore! It's a great time to buy swimwear (off season) and they have so many great options.
There's a variety of deals happening for Cyber Monday
BAREFOOT DREAMS
20% off all styles with code CYBER20
BAREFOOT DREAMS
20% off all styles with code CYBER20
Your Guide to Black Friday Shopping
The biggest shopping day of the year is here! In case you're like me and get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of promotions that are happening this weekend I thought I would share some highlights of the best sales from the places that I shop regularly.
50% off your purchase with code FRIYAY
Shop items I own and wishlist items here!
Anthropologie
30% off everything!
Shop my picks here!
Shop items I own and wishlist items here!
Anthropologie
30% off everything!
Shop my picks here!
50% off with code TGIF
$15 & under on select products
Elisabeth Ashlie
20% off with code BFCM
Aerie
40% off + free shipping!
Shop items I own here!
American Eagle
40% off + free shipping!
Abercrombie
50% off the entire store
Mark & Graham
20% off everything + free shipping with code FRIENDS
I love their leather goods, like this pouch, this roll pouch, this tech pouch, and this structured one.
The Daily Edited
20% off everything with BLACKFRIDAY20
I love all of their personalized phone cases, this clear pouch, this travel case, and this desk tray.
20% off with code BFCM
Aerie
40% off + free shipping!
Shop items I own here!
American Eagle
40% off + free shipping!
Abercrombie
50% off the entire store
Mark & Graham
20% off everything + free shipping with code FRIENDS
I love their leather goods, like this pouch, this roll pouch, this tech pouch, and this structured one.
The Daily Edited
20% off everything with BLACKFRIDAY20
I love all of their personalized phone cases, this clear pouch, this travel case, and this desk tray.
holiday 2018
holiday gift guide
Holiday Gift Guide for The Girl You're Close To
1. Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cardigan | 2. Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette | 3. EA Family Initial Necklace | 4. Aquis Luxe Hair Turban | 5. Anthropologie Cozy Blanket Scarf | 6. EA Double Disc Stamped Family Necklace | 7. Mark & Graham Half Moon Clutch | 8. Fresh Sugar Jetsetter Kit | 9. Barefoot Dreams Throw Blanket | 10. Barefoot Dreams Leopard Throw Blanket | 11. EMU Australia Slippers | 12. Slip Silk Pillowcase
This is a gift guide to refer to for the girl you're close to; your mom, sister-in-law, best friend. The girl you want to spoil a little bit this holiday season. If I really want to spoil somebody, I look no further than Barefoot Dreams. I wear this cardigan nearly every day for lounging around the house. It's so cozy and warm - the perfect thing for this time of year. We also have a few of their throw blankets, but this leopard one is our favorite. We keep it in our living room because it's large enough for us to both fit under!
If you know she likes makeup and skincare, you can't go wrong with this eyeshadow palette. It's one of those palettes that you can use for any look and it small enough that it's easy to travel with! Or treat her to a really fun array of tinted lip balms. I love all of them! A splurge-worthy gift is a silk pillowcase - I've been using one for over a year now and it makes a difference in my skin and in how my hair does overnight.
A great gift for a close girl that either has everything or you're just not quite sure what she would like is a personalized piece of jewelry. If all other ideas don't see quite right, every woman can use a pretty and functional zipper pouch in her bag!
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coffee conversations
I binge-listened (really, is there any other way?!) to Bear Brook this week on the recommendation of an Instagram follower and enjoyed it. It was pretty interesting and a bit of a twisty journey. I'd recommend it if you enjoy the cold case, investigative-type podcasts.
I'm hoping to do some holiday baking over Thanksgiving, so I'll definitely be referring back to this post to try a recipe!
Have a great weekend!
Coffee Conversations
This post usually goes up on Friday morning, but I decided to treat myself yesterday and set a later morning alarm. It was a delight to get a little extra sleep, but by time I got up and got my coffee at 9am, I was feeling behind on my other work, so I decided I'd do a special Saturday-edition of Coffee Conversations this week. We'll be traveling next week for Thanksgiving, so this week and weekend are the final push to get everything buttoned-up before Cyber Weekend. Historically, it's a very busy weekend for Elisabeth Ashlie, so I've been stocking the site and making sure that everything is ready to go for all you holiday shoppers! I'm also planning to be sharing quite a bit about the best sales and cyber weekend deals here and on Instagram, so keep an eye out for that, if you're planning on shopping!
I recently restocked on my favorite Drunk Elephant products, the C-Firma Day Serum and the Glycolic Night Serum. These are the only two products I use on my skin and I am so impressed with how well they work. I have an "updated skincare routine" coming up in a couple weeks, but this is half of that routine!
There's a lot of Pre-Black Friday Sales happening right now! If you want to avoid the BF mayhem or want to ensure you will get an item while it's still in stock, I've rounded up my picks from the places I frequent the most:
I'm hoping to do some holiday baking over Thanksgiving, so I'll definitely be referring back to this post to try a recipe!
Have a great weekend!
style
try-on
Loungewear Try-on + Styling
Loungewear is my most-worn, most shopped for category in my current stage of life. Working from home and learning that comfort is king when it comes to said working, I'm wearing some form of leggings, a top and cozy sweater nearly every day. Some of my most-worn items of the last few months are currently on sale, so I thought I would share a little "try-on" with you!
Look #1
Look #2
Lou & Grey Cardigan in XS (40% off!), Madewell Pocket Tee (select colors on sale), Aerie Destroyed City Joggers (under $28)
Look #3
Aerie Ribbed Long-Sleeve in a M - I sized up two sizes (under $21), City Joggers in another color
Look #4
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