 |
| My eyes: one is brown, one is green! |
Blogging about fashion, I get tons of style questions. A close second is definitely questions about my makeup and hair though. I'm often asked about my beauty routine and why I usually wear my hair down, so today I decided to spill the beans! (Along the same lines of this post: "My Fitness Story") I think some of these facts may surprise you, and I have even been known to share a couple of the more shocking ones as entertainment at parties (j/k). I love feminine dresses, shoes, and clothes of every kind. But when it comes to beauty and hair, I have always felt like a bit of a Plain Jane, and I think I might be missing a girlie gene. For example:
- I've never painted my fingernails.
- I've never done anything to my eyebrows like waxing, plucking, etc.
- I've had one pedicure and hated it. (My toes are always painted, but I do it myself.)
- I've never had a facial or a massage.
- I wore fake eyelashes once in my life, and didn't love it. (Applied by a pro, but they hurt.)
- I've used the same type of eyeliner since 8th grade.
- My makeup routine takes less than 5 minutes, and I never change it unless I'm going out at night or appearing on TV. (Watch the video here.)
- I've never used self-tanner or spray tan. (I also don't use tanning beds, and I'm very strict about SPF, especially since I live in Florida. That skin color you see is all natural!)
- My hair is naturally wavy and super-thick. Most days I just wash it, throw it up, and never even blow dry it. (You can see an example of how I wear it below, but I try not to take blog pics that way b/c it might scare the children.)
- If I actually do get around to blow drying and straightening, I leave my hair down. Partly because I like it down, partly because I don't know how to do it, and partly because it's so thick it gives me headaches when I wear it up for too long.
- I've been adding highlights since 10th grade, after an unfortunate at-home coloring experiment, and have been a "slave" to highlights ever since. I'm currently trying to grow them out in hopes of a more natural look!
 |
| My usual 'do |
My philosophy on beauty + fashion: So, what's the conclusion? I feel somewhat inadequate in this area of life, and sometimes I wish I was better at hair and makeup, or even just had more of an interest in it (I never read that section of the magazine!). A lot of you expressed interest in seeing a different hairstyle on me in a recent outfit post (and have done so in the past), and I really wish sometimes that I was at least a little better at doing hair! If you have tips for "baby steps" in this area, or links to hair tutorials for super-thick hair, please leave them below! (But also keep in mind that I do all my pictures at the same time, so there isn't a lot of time to switch hair in between.)
That said, while I always believe in improvement and experimenting, I'm also comfortable with keeping my look the same! There is some part of me that is terrified of looking like Snooki, and I really prefer to stick to what works. (I tried a smokey eye once and didn't like the pictures afterwards.) I have always felt that keeping my hair and makeup neutral, feels the most like "me" and creates a blank canvas for my clothes. I feel confident with 5 minutes of makeup, and that anything else (like fancy hair or colorful makeup) is a distraction, and takes away from whatever natural beauty I may have been blessed with (rather than enhancing it, which is how I think makeup should be and how I try to apply it). I never want to look overdone, especially since I'm often wearing crazy outfits, and I feel like "plain" hair and makeup balances it out, and I prefer to play it safe. Or maybe I'm just making excuses for being lazy. One of the two. ;-)
That said, while I always believe in improvement and experimenting, I'm also comfortable with keeping my look the same! There is some part of me that is terrified of looking like Snooki, and I really prefer to stick to what works. (I tried a smokey eye once and didn't like the pictures afterwards.) I have always felt that keeping my hair and makeup neutral, feels the most like "me" and creates a blank canvas for my clothes. I feel confident with 5 minutes of makeup, and that anything else (like fancy hair or colorful makeup) is a distraction, and takes away from whatever natural beauty I may have been blessed with (rather than enhancing it, which is how I think makeup should be and how I try to apply it). I never want to look overdone, especially since I'm often wearing crazy outfits, and I feel like "plain" hair and makeup balances it out, and I prefer to play it safe. Or maybe I'm just making excuses for being lazy. One of the two. ;-)
Your philosophy on beauty + fashion: So let's hear it ladies. I'm dying to know your personal philosophies. Am I in a rut, or do you think sticking to what works is a good plan? How do you blend beauty + fashion? Do you focus more on one or the other? Do you think crazy clothes need crazy makeup to balance them out, or do you believe that neutral makeup helps the outfit pop?
Please share your beauty stories and tips below! :-)
You may also like this post: "My Fitness Story."
You may also like this post: "My Fitness Story."
I think you're so much of a natural beauty that there's no need for more :) And I love the fact your eyes are different colours, that's so cute! xoxo ♥
ReplyDeleteThis was such a great post! I would have guessed that you had a more in depth beauty routine. You are gorgeous no matter how little make-up or hair care you do!
ReplyDeleteYou are beautiful inside & out bella! Love the pic of you leaning on the car! Would love to see you if you are at Mall at Millenia please stop by & say hello. My counter has moved though so ask for me. Hope to see you soon! Ciao!
ReplyDeleteI think your makeup and hair fit you perfect! You are definitely a natural beauty :) As for me, i'm CONSTANTLY switching up my hair and makeup. If I have a pretty plain outfit on, I like to play up my makeup a bit more, if i'm wearing a pretty bold outfit or lot's of color or whatever, i do a more natural makeup look.And for hair, I like to switch up my hair style based on what i'm wearing/doing that day. So If i'm going to work i always have it away from my face (either in a braid, half-up style or bun), and for school i normally have it down
ReplyDeleteI think we are cut from the same mold. I too am not a hair and make-up enthusiast. While I do appreciate it on other women I just don't have the interest or patience to do it to myself. Once in a while I do make the effort is only for special occasions like wedding. Moisturizer, Toner & Sunscreen is my morning routine with an addition of kohl pencil if I am going out [which I have been using since I was one day old (in India is quite common)]. Hair, I just wash and let them dry by themselves and then tie a ponytail or a bun since they are super long right now. When they are short I just leave them down too. [Phew! That was long, right? :)]
ReplyDeleteLove this post! I used to get "questioned" by girls in college why I didn't wear makeup, and I'd always say I liked being natural. I was embarrassed (Why? I don't know!) and started wearing it everyday. I hated it! It was a pain. Now, I'm back to au-naturale :) except on special occasions! I feel more "me" today than I ever have.
ReplyDeletelove this post! thanks for sharing. I feel I'm pretty plain jane as well compared to what I see on tv and with some friends. I'm ok with that though. I am trying to grow my hair out longer so I can do more with it, and I've started a board on pinterest with some nice hairstyles and ideas to keep me motivated to grow it out long (I alwys get it to a certain length and then cut it up just below my shoulders again.. then regret it right away). that would be a great place for you to get hair ideas if you are looking.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I think you just fine just the way you are. People have the right to have opinions but if you are comfortable in your skin then you really don't have to listen to them or change! :)
ReplyDeleteYou're such a pretty girl, so I think the natural look really does work best on you! It's not plain at all, though...You just are blessed to not need 5 pounds of makeup to look good!!! And I've seen pics of you with your hair in its "natural" state and think it looks just as great as when you straighten it.
ReplyDeleteAs for your beauty routines, I'm the same when it comes to facials/manicures/pedicures. Never done them and they just don't interest me, which is particularly weird for me, because I am super girl about makeup, fashion, etc. I also find myself doing the same things over and over, because I'm not great at coming up with new hairstyles/makeup palettes.
I like your smokey eye J! I am a makeup whore. I don't wear a ton of crazy make up looks (I usually do a really neutral eye with red lips - Mad Men got me lovin' red lips) but I love watching and reading make up blogs and videos. I love trying out different products. I've learned so many things by reading those blogs (just like I've learned so many things reading fashion blogs). I know you probably don't have a lot of time but reading make up blogs might be a good place to start to get ideas or inspiration. :)
ReplyDeleteMeant to say super girly about makeup and fashion.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this, J! You are so naturaly beautiful but I am sure it is because the inside radiates to the outside :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Amber! Would love to hear your favorite hair blogs? Preferably ones for beginners?
ReplyDeleteJ---I lov makeup and beauty stuff and have lots of products---but I stick to the exact same look everyday---even for evening I just amplify my day look. I love having a signature simple look that is not too overdone. :) sometimes simple is better!
ReplyDeleteI love your attitude Ashley! At the end of the day it's not about how much or little makeup you have on, it's about how comfortable and confident you feel!
ReplyDeleteI love this Tanvi! I wouldn't have guessed you were the same (you always look fab) but this makes me feel better that I'm not alone! Thanks for sharing! :-)
ReplyDeleteI'm blushing, that was really sweet, thank you! :-)
ReplyDeleteLove you the way you are! The more natural looking make-up, the better (in my opinion.) I have thick hair also and usually just let it air dry...a bit lazy to blow dry (plus it is a pain in the butt also to do. LOL)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you shared this. Feeling comfortable in your own skin is one of the most attractive qualities a person can have. No amount of "window dressing" can substitute for that. If minimal makeup and natural hair feels like "you" to you, then that is going to come across in the way you present yourself. If false eyelashes make you feel like you're wearing a costume, it defeats the whole purpose of these beautification tools, which is to enhance - not hide.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, you obviously push outside of your comfort zone a bit with your fashion and encourage others to try new things too. That is one of my big missions this year: get out of my fashion/beauty rut. I've been doing the same "natural look" make-up for years and years too. I recently saw a magazine advertisement (can't even remember the product!) with a blonde/blue-eye model with my coloring wearing gorgeous eye shadow. I decided to copy it on myself and I loved it! It was a stretch for me - I mean, going from vanilla eye shadow on the lids to dark brown - so scandalous! *lol* I won't do it every day, but I'm changing it up every now and then.
So, my long-winded point is, you try some pretty bold moves when it comes to fashion. I can see where you might stick with the same natural look with everything else. If you want to break out of a rut, if you feel you're in one, find a model or celebrity in a magazine with similar coloring to you and try to duplicate her look. Have one of your make-up savvy friends help you if you suck at it. ;)
Also, FYI, Keratin hair treatments are awesome. I have straight hair to begin with, and I still love getting them because they make my hair so smooth and glassy looking. If you wanted to wear your hair straight without having to straighten it every time, that's an option. I go to an organic salon, so the kind of treatment I get isn't the scary, "knock you over" chemical kind, but you might need a stronger one for your thick wavy hair.
Great post! You're helping me out of my fashion rut. :)
I think you are absolutely beautiful! I think having a minimum beauty routine proves that you are a confident woman and proud of your natural beauty. I have a similar beauty routine and agree with you that it should just enhance what each of us already have. I am very jealous of your perfect eyebrows... Without plucking!!
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on the hair deal. I have super thick hair that is naturally fairly curly. Because it's so thick though, if I brush it out at all after showering I get a fairly pathetic wave. This leaves me to just not care, hahah! Some days my hair stays curly, some days I brush it out and let it be and I rarely straighten it because, just like you, I don't know what to do with it. I also have a pretty minimal make-up etc routine and love the little time and stress it takes to get ready in the am--leaves me more time to sleep :)!
ReplyDeleteI think you are absolutely beautiful! I think having a minimum beauty routine proves that you are a confident woman and proud of your natural beauty. I have a similar beauty routine and agree with you that it should just enhance what each of us already have. I am very jealous of your perfect eyebrows... Without plucking!!
ReplyDeleteI love this Tina! I totally agree with you that I make very bold moves with fashion. I was thinking about that when I wrote this post - why am I so adventurous with that, but not with makeup? I have tried things a few times (like the smokey eye) and they tend not to go very well, lol, whereas when I wear crazy clothes I usually love how I feel in them. I will continue to experiment though. I had a friend show me the trick I now use every time I go out or on TV for a darker eye, so maybe I can pick up a few more tips here and there! :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat I can tell you is as I've hit my 40's I am feeling the need to change things up a little in the make-up department... your skin loses it's natural glow and things start looking a little tired unless you perk them up a bit. I used to never paint my nails because it came off too quick, and I hate the look of fake nails, but since I've discovered shellac mani's I've been doing that for over a year now and LOVE it... Orangies Attic
ReplyDeleteI LOVE make up and trying new things with my hair because I think it's an easy way to completely change a look. It doesn't always work out the way I want it too but all you have to do is wash your face/take your hair down if you hate it, lol. YouTube is my go to for help: I really like TiffanyD for make up and LilithMoon for hair tutorials.
ReplyDeleteI have tried the smokey eye several times and I just feel like a raccoon every time! It just does not look good on me either. I've learned that I can experiment and wear darker eye shadow on top but eyeliner and mascara underneath the eye is just never going to happen. So yeah, try bolder on top and skip the bottom next time. That's my tip. :)
ReplyDeleteI think you look beautiful the way you are, and kudos to you for not bending to the pressures of society (and your followers). Anyone who requests you to change your hair or makeup is presumptuous and rude, in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteWhat neat fun facts! Thanks for sharing them with us! With regards to make-up and hair, I get in a rut, too. But whatever works for YOU is the best, no matter how simple or intricate.If you are wanting to experiment and not feel like a total goob, try this blog: http://makeupbytiffanyd.blogspot.com/ . She has make-up looks from the easy to the extraordinary, and shows you how. It's where I get extra help! Good Luck!
ReplyDeleteThank you, I will check that out!
ReplyDeleteThank you Michele! I don't think people mean to be rude, and suggestions for different hairstyles don't bother me one bit. I think some people really like to pair their hair + outfit though, almost like a wine pairing. They think that if you are wearing faux fur for example, then you should wear your hair up, that kind of thing. Unfortunately my brain doesn't work that way (lol) and I never think of those things, but I'm working on it. :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the suggestions! :-)
ReplyDeleteYeah, I agree. Mascara/eyeliner only goes on the top for me too!
ReplyDeleteYour hair and makeup routine (or lack thereof!) sounds exactly like mine. And J, I'm totally jealous of your perfect, unplucked brows! I have to tweeze every day, or else I turn into Frida Kahlo.
ReplyDeleteThis a makeup blog that I regularly follow:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/user/emilynoel83?feature=g-user-s Emily give such great tutorials and I have learned so much from her. I watch hair channels too but I have to say I am completely lost when it comes to that department. I am by no means wonderful at makeup but I think the more you practice the better you become. You are very blessed to look beautiful with minimal makeup and hair. Since I have turned 30 and gotten divorced I have become more comfortable with who I am and it's a wonderful growing process. Good luck girly! :)
LOL Frida Kahlo!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing! I've been following your blog since the summer of 2010 and you have always come across as very warm, easy to relate to, and naturally pretty in your postings.
ReplyDeleteI've never been one to experiment a lot with makeup or my hair either, so I can definitely relate. When I am feel adventurous, I like to check out http://thebeautydepartment.com/. They have decent tutorials that are for both everyday and more special occasion type events.
I am totally envious of your eyebrows though. haha
I think it's awesome that you keep a pretty natural look. (It's pretty AND natural!) And I think it's hard, because you can't be good at EVERYTHING. You know? I see people that are amazing fashion, make up, hair, cooking, decorating, etc and then I'm like "Why can't I do that?!" But it's crazy to think we can all be the best at everything! :) You're fashion sense is amazing and I like that your hair and make up doesn't distract from that! You always look beautiful! :)
ReplyDeleteI think you're a natural beauty so there isn't any need to do more then what you're already doing in that department. Whatever you're doing is working :-). As for hairstyles yeah, some people like to pair the hair with the outfit, I do it "sometimes" but my hair is so much to deal with I often don't bother with all that.
ReplyDeleteLove this. Liked you before, like you even more now! :)
ReplyDelete(I wear my hair up at work so can concentrate. And even though I love ponytails and up-dos on others, I don't feel feminine unless my hair is down.)
I just have never found anything wrong with the way you do your hair and make-up. You are blessed with so many beautiful features, like your eyebrows that never need waxed or plucked...LUCKY! :-) If we do something to ourselves that doesn't feel right, then we won't ever be comfortable with it. Even with all the advice and tips I've taken from you, not all of them work for me and my coloring or body type, but I don't sweat it. I want to be comfortable, no matter what. That being said, I also have hair that is quite thick and long and curly and I rarely know what to do with it, even though I've asked a few friends for tips. I wish I knew of more ways to put it up, but that don't take gobs of time to do. I guess we'll keep searching.
ReplyDeleteI just love your blog, and all the fashion risks you take! I would love to be good at one of the 3 (fashion, hair, makeup), but I struggle with all 3 haha! I have the exact same 5 minute beauty routine, if i feel like I put on too much makeup, I usually end up wiping it off. I have no idea how to help you with the hair stuff, but I will be checking the comments to see what other tips people have.
ReplyDeleteI also live in Orlando, one of these days I should try to make it to one of the events you go to. Keep it up!
Hi J!
ReplyDeleteI think your hair always looks nice, but if you want to change it up a bit for fun a couple of easy ideas would be to take small pieces of hair from the front sides by your face and either 1) braiding them back or 2) twisting them back. Then just pin them with bobby pins on both sides. That way your hair is still down, but you're adding a little extra "something."
I also hate doing my hair. I never know what to do, and if I do have an idea my hair tends to have a mind of its own! I do love to do makeup, however. I say just have fun with it and don't worry about changing it up. You always look good anyway. =)
This post was so much fun!
ReplyDeleteI do have to admit that I am still curious to know what type of eyeliner you're wearing, especially since 8th grade!
I am so with you, J! I have never been big on fixing hair or wearing a lot of makeup. My makeup routine may actually take less than 5 minutes. I wear mascara, a little foundation, blush, and lipstick. That's it! I only occasionally wear a little eyeliner. I need the foundation to even out my skin tone, and I need to have a little color on my cheeks/lips so I don't look like death warmed over. Otherwise, I've never gotten into the whole makeup thing, especially lots of eye makeup. Regarding my hair, I'm just not that good at fixing it. I honestly don't even really know how to use a curling iron and I certainly know nothing about hot rollers or anything like that. I wear mine down a lot, or up on the sides or in a ponytail. That's about it.
ReplyDeleteI stay stick with what works and maybe just experiment with little things here and there once in a while. I tried a couple new things with my hair recently and couldn't get it to work, but I felt happy with myself that I at least tried. :-)
health4lifekc.blogspot.com
This is so refreshing. I feel the same way about beauty, I do a few things to spruce up my look but I am mostly about being natural. You look amazing, keep doing what you are doing.
ReplyDeleteAmen chica! I am so jealous of people who seem to be good at everything. My skills are fashion, business/marketing, and fitness. I'm not so good at decorating, makeup/hair and cooking. But I'm working on it. :-)
ReplyDeleteI love these ideas Ky! I can definitely do something easy like that, and leaving my hair mostly down will help with headaches. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThank you! This post has all the products I use. It's a Cover Girl pencil, I use it everyday, and then switch to a liquid eyeliner for night or on-camera looks! http://www.jseverydayfashion.com/2010/12/video-my-5-minute-makeup-routine.html
ReplyDeleteI'm checking out these tutorials now - they're great! Thanks for the link.
ReplyDeleteGreat glad you like them. She is awesome!
ReplyDeleteLike you, I was in a rut until recently! I do agree with you about manicures/pedicures though. I hate my fingernails painted and I am much better at giving myself a pedicure than paying someone else to do it. I like to keep my makeup simple but have started branching out little by little. When I have a little extra money, I'll go to MAC and buy a new eyeshadow (nothing crazy looking, just different than the usual) and make myself try it out. I also have started trying out new moisturizers, bronzers, etc mainly because PR sends them to me and it's helped me make myself try it! I personally don't think there is anything wrong with not liking to wear makeup a lot and having your hair how you like it! Most girls overdo their makeup and it looks a little much. I say, if you're naturally beautiful enough to go without makeup…then rock it!!! xoxo!!
ReplyDeleteI don't think you're in a rut at all! I believe the value in doing stuff like your hair and makeup should stem out of the larger value of simply wanting to take care of yourself. If you want to change things up, that's great, but just because a makeup routine is simple or consistent doesn't mean a rut. I think it's a "rut" when your hair is the same because you're neglecting yourself. You're totally putting care into yourself and you look beautiful, confident, and like you respect yourself, so go with what works! If you're not into new hairstyles, then who cares? Spend your time on the things that are more important to you. :)
ReplyDeleteAudrey
www.puttingmetogether.com
I hate spending more than just a couple minutes on my makeup! I've been trying to get better, but I would rather sleep :) I recently found The Small Things blog and she has lots of tutorials for both makeup and hair.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thesmallthingsblog.com/
I think you look perfect as you are, we wish we could be perfect as the movie stars but reality is way better!
ReplyDeleteI think you just need to go with what feels good for you and if that's your decade old 5 min routine then that's totally cool - you are a natural beauty anyway! As for hair - you should check our LoveMaegan's blog - she has super thick hair and lots of tutorials on how to do it differently - if that's what you want! My hair is super thin so I wish I had your problem.x
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on this one. I don't spent a lot of time on hair and makeup. I just have other things I prefer to do with my time. I envy your natural eyebrows! I have no choice but to groom mine. Your comment about Snooki made me laugh. I don't live too far from the actual Jersey Shore, and there are Snooki-alikes all over. Your skin gets so tan in the summer that you could easily stray into that territory if you overdid your makeup.
ReplyDeleteThank you, I will check that out! And the grass is always greener my friend. Many days I would give anything for thin hair! My hairstylist thins if for me, but even still it's way too thick. Ugh.
ReplyDeleteYes to both parts of your comment!! I always feel like hair/makeup is a waste a time, but I spend hours on my clothes, isn't that funny? And I totally agree with you about how tan I get. Definite Snooki territory. One thing I learned about myself through blogging is how olive my skin is - it honestly never really looked that way to me before now. I try my best not to get that tan, but I love being outside so much and doing watersports, so if I do get really dark this summer I will lay off the makeup for sure. Thanks for the tip! :-)
ReplyDeleteAnd this is also why I'm trying to loose the blonde highlights! Looks really fake when I'm that tan, and I definitely prefer a more natural look. :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Heather! I'm told I get my eyebrows from my grandmother, who passed when I was just a few months old. I can't even imagine having to maintain bushy eyebrows, although I also wish mine were thicker sometimes!
ReplyDeleteYes, please do! I also wish I was a triple threat (fashion, hair, makeup) but I'm more of a one-trick pony. LOL!
ReplyDeleteYour healthy attitude to beauty enhances what I already thought was a beautiful woman. And the fact that you have different coloured eyes is a testament to how rare your beauty is...in fact it is so rare geneticists cannot even predict the outcome of this happening! J, stay as you are!
ReplyDeleteLove, Mervat x
Awww, thank you! My one green eye is actually a result of a childhood tumor that almost took my life. But that's a whole different story for another day. I wear it proudly though. ;-)
ReplyDeleteEmily Eddington is FANTASTIC. I've been watching her videos for about three years, and I've slowly revamped pretty much everything I do because of her. She's easy to follow, sweet, and bubbly. Great suggestion!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait too see how your hair looks when it's more natural!
ReplyDeleteso pretty
ReplyDeleteSuch a great post! I loved learning about your beauty routine, and think its awesome that you have never plucked or waxed your eyebrows. They look amazing au natural, lol! If you feel comfortable the most with your current beauty routine, just keep doing what you are doing. You are a natural beauty, so your simple make-up suits you :)
ReplyDeleteYour hair would look cute with just a simple bobby pin and maybe your bangs pulled back a bit. It's still pretty simple and is kind of like a baby step. Heather
I think you should continue with your "signature" look. You look great!
ReplyDeleteI wear my make the same way. I do try different eye shadow colors. I always line my top & lower eye. If you know what looks good on you stay with it.
Thank you for sharing! I love your blog and clothing choices. I have a blog and I'm not huge on getting my face and hair fancy for my pictures. You always look great, so no worries!!
ReplyDeleteYou are just the cutest thing! Natural is better in my opinion, but really it should be what makes you FEEL best when wearing it. that is how you really know your own style. You havea fantastic blog. Love seeing your posts!
ReplyDeleteHaving seen your picture I was actually going to mention you should go to a doctor to get checked out as you show several ocular signs of a certain syndrome. Luckily, this was all in the past and you have been treated :-)
ReplyDeleteYep, you nailed it. I've been giving every doctor I meet heart attacks since I was 3. :-) Everything is okay now, but I am planning to share the whole story at some point b/c it's pretty wild!
ReplyDeleteTotally agree! And thank you for the kind words Eliza!
ReplyDeletedon't feel like you need to change anything up, J you pull of the natural look beautifully! you should consider yourself very greatful for that! If you really are curious about trying some new hair styles definitely check out pinterest for that! I come across so many great hair how-to's, one blog in particular I follow on hair is this one, http://www.thesmallthingsblog.com, feel free to check out my beauty board on there I have lots pinned :)
ReplyDeleteI feel this way actually when it comes to all of it. I like how I look and feel way too done up and not "me" if I go beyond my normal makeup routine or try to dress up with jewelry and sparkly outfits. I am very tall and very skinny which actually works in my favor and I am aware of that blessing, but I feel most beautiful when I wear a perfect fitted pair of jeans and fitted white t-shirt with my brown hair in a pony tail or down with my natural makeup look. Handbags are where I go crazy! But it will always bother my mother that I do not take what I have been "blessed with" and glam myself up more, oh well.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I think every women looks most gorgeous in a perfect fitting pair of jeans and fitted white t-shirt.
whitneykayestyles.blogspot.com
Hey J! First time commenter here, I just found your blog a few weeks ago and I LOVE it! You have fab style!
ReplyDeleteI am definitely down for trying different things with hair and makeup, because I think that they can be the perfect accessory to an outfit! Whether it's a messy braid, or a sleek cat eye, hair and makeup can accentuate your face and clothes! I pretty much stick with the same makeup routine everyday (unless I'm going out on the town), and I love your au naturale look. However, I do try to do something different with my hair everyday. If I'm wearing a big chunky necklace or even a fur collar or scarf, for example, I feel that wearing my hair down can "weigh down" the outfit...so I pull it off of my face! And with a face like yours, you don't need anything distracting from it! :)
I have VERY long and thick hair (all the way down my back), so I have the same problem as you with headaches. I try to do a loose pony (to the back or to the side) or a loose braid. I also wear my hair in a top knot on the regular, which is very in right now! Because it piles all of your hair on the top of your head, it doesn't pull hair back from your face and give you headaches.
Here is a great tutorial for the top knot (this website is great for all kinds of makeup and hair tips!) http://runningonhappiness.blogspot.com/2011/09/how-to-top-knot.html
And a few more pics:
http://pinterest.com/pin/149815125073928912/
http://pinterest.com/pin/104286547591154576/
http://pinterest.com/pin/206602701625478361/
These styles are lifesavers for girls like us with long thick hair!
Good luck, and keep up the good work!
I feel the same way. I LOVE clothes and shoes, but I feel like any 12 year old girl knows more about hair and make up than I do. Fortunately I feel like I am blessed with good skin, so I rarely do anything with my face except moisturize (and that is not as often as it should be). I have just recently started "doing" my hair. I went to a new salon and stylist (Lauren at Biyoshi if any readers are in Knoxville) and she was wonderful at taking the time to show me what she was doing. I can now give myself a decent blowout in about 10 minutes and it really makes me feel more confident knowing I look good from head to toe.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I love your eyes. Mine are hazel and one is mostly brown and the other is mostly green.
ReplyDeleteOh. my. word. I feel like I could have written this! I also, have NEVER painted my nails, don't do anything w/ my brows, never had a facial or anything like it, and have had only one pedicure, which I absolutely hated! My hair wavy and ridiculously thick as well. I think we are beauty routine twins:)
ReplyDeleteWow! A lot of those "facts" surprised me! My goal is to always look polished, but natural. As far as makeup goes, I pretty much wear the same thing every day at work, but like to switch it up if I have somewhere to go at night. I think it's a good idea to go the dept. store makeup counter and have them do a makeover for day and night to get new tips and try new things. As far as hair, mine is naturally wavy as well and I can never predict how it is going to look. So, I straighten it a lot, and end up pulling it into a ponytail or half-way up by the end of the day. A great trick is to use your straighten to curl your hair and give it some volume. It is so easy to do and gives a little more style to your hair!
ReplyDeleteI love this post! I can totally relate to your hair situation, as I don't have a clue how to do my hair in a lot of different ways. I wish I did and could, but I am clueless about styling. I go on youtube to find different ways to curl my hair, but as for up do's and having to use bobby pins, I suck!!! I wish I was the kind of woman that could put my hair in 7 different styles ever day of the week, but no such luck here. Your make up and hair always look great and I don't come to visit you to check out what lipstick you are wearing anyways. If I want to see make up and hair blogs, then I will visit them as should others on here if that is what they are looking to see. If you ever feel in a rut, which I sometimes do because I don't like to change my hair much anymore, I just add sideswiped bangs that aren't too short, because they are so easy to grow out and it is a nice subtle change! xx
ReplyDeletePip
http://chicstayathome.blogspot.com
Hey J,
ReplyDeleteTwo tips (I have super thick hair, too):
1. Hot rollers - Get the big ones and roll up the hair that frames your face and to the back of your crown. It'll help with volume (which can be hard to achieve when your hair is heavy, I know...) and give a loose, subtle wave to the rest of your hair. Rollers are less fussy than a curling iron, cause you just set them and get on with your makeup/clothing routine, then take them out. I usually just finger rake them to avoid causing a poofy mess with a brush.
2. Hair clips, they are your friend! I hate wearing elastics because they always droop and give me a headache. There are special hair clips made for thick hair, and they aren't as ugly as their banana clip cousins circa 1998 (http://www.beautysbin.com/Annie_Thick_Hair_Clip_p/8426.htm).
All I have to say is try facials, they are one of my favorite things, very relaxing, my skin always feels great afterwards, better than massages and pedicures. And your natural beauty is amazing, can't believe you don't pluck your eyebrows.
ReplyDeleteI also rarely wear makeup on a daily basis, just moisturizer and then when I do wear makeup, I get the wow, you look great comments. When I put on a lot of makeup, I always feel like a little girl trying on her mom's stuff, so natural is the way I roll. At 42, I am often mistaken for being younger than I am and I think it is partly because I don't coat my face with goo everyday.
ReplyDeleteSo sweet, thank you! And you are making me want a facial so bad, lol! I might actually have to try it out sometime, thank you for demystifying it a bit for me.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the tips! I love #2 and am definitely trying that. I've tried curlers though - unfortunately my hair doesn't hold curl at all. I have to use a curling iron the size of my pinky and use Hot Sets spray (takes like an hour) to get big, bouncy curls!
ReplyDeleteYay! Love finding a beauty routine twin. :-)
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome! And I can surely relate to feeling like a 12-year-old playing dress up.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for commenting Shannon and for sharing your awesome tips! :-)
ReplyDeleteTotally agree. Jeans + white t-shirts is one of my favorite looks of all time!
ReplyDeleteJ, I'm not big on makeup either...many of my friends wear it, but I feel my best with just my hair done nicely, and a little lip balm...I do wish (sometimes) I was more girly, but, as you mentioned, I think it's better we stay "true to ourselves" than become something/someone that we're not :)
ReplyDeleteI have never had a facial, massage, pedicure, or manicure. I do like to curl my hair every now and then though.
ReplyDeleteI used to take 3 minutes to put on makeup but I got lazy and don't wear foundation or blush anymore and just do lipstick and eye shadow (it took 3 minutes counting the time I'd be petting my cat too.)
I do notice if I'm wearing a more crazy outfit, I keep my hair straight and I leave times I curl my hair for times I'm wearing a more boring outfit but I have never really noticed why or figured out the correlation before until you mentioned it above.
When do you take outfit photos. Like on a weekend do you take a few hour sand take a bunch of photos and post them on different days or a weeknight or what? How long does it take you? I knew you didn't post what you wore (well sometimes you do), but I didn't know your routine. I'm curious.
You look just fine!!! I'm 49, but often told I look 35 or so. I like the natural look too. Layers of make up adds years, and all the beauty routines take so much time. Simple skin care, healthy living and a joy for life can make any outfit look good! Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteColleen, I talk more about my process for taking pictures in my Q&A, but it really depends on the week! :-) I usually take one afternoon to come up with 7 or so outfit pictures and I post them as the week goes on. As you said, I don't get to wear all of them (like the winter looks, and some of them are fails), but I have been posting more of what I'm actually wearing lately and those pics I usually snap on my way out the door! Let me know if that answers your question!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jo and I totally agree! Sounds like I wear a lot of makeup compared to you - I almost always have on mascara, eyeliner and foundation - but my routine is very quick and I still feel very Plain Jane most of the time because I never do anything fancy, just the usual routine. :-)
ReplyDeleteI've dyed it darker twice so far, but it keeps fading out and going back to blonde so it's going to be awhile before I can get rid of it. I'm excited to see the end result though!
ReplyDeleteThank you Chrissie! I do wear a fair amount of makeup (I included a link to my post w. a video that shows you everything), but I still can't shake the feeling of being a Plain Jane. I was a tomboy growing up so I'm sure that has something to do with it! :-) It's all relative though - I'm sure to some people I wear TONS of makeup and to others I am pretty simple.
ReplyDeleteI say to each their own and do what you feel comfortable with. There is no need to 'keep up with the 'Jones' so to speak. Yes I get both mani's and pedi's. I keep my hair colored but usually styled simply unless I have an event to go to. I take care of my skin and can go without makeup but I usually use a little powder and do my eyes lightly. Lips again are left with just a moisturizer(love burt's bees with a little color in it), again unless I have an event. I like to think of my daily look as lightly polished. As for causal I am not a flip flop girl but I love a good sandal or sneaker. Jeans and tees (hoodies and sweaters in the winter, Midwesterner here) are a must. Still I love my heals.
ReplyDeleteAll that being said I love to look for ideas (a reason I read a blog like this). I love to experiment and challenge myself on doing something new and different. But at the end of the day it comes down to what I like, not what everyone else says I should. I also know I just want to be me. Not someone else.
I say be the best you, you can be. That says a lot more about style and personality than trying to be like everyone else.
Love this Kelli! I tried to strike a balance in this post between wishing I was more girlie (b/c i do, and always have. I was def a tomboy growing up), and "owning" my current look. I would hate to be too close-minded and say "this is me, deal with it" but I'm also not going to listen to what someone else thinks or says that I should do with hair and makeup. It's a balance, like I said, and hopefully that came across in my post and in my daily life as well! :-)
ReplyDeleteIt does answer it.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I wish I'd take an afternoon/evening and plan outfits with accessories that I'll wear in the next week. Getting ready at 6am is hard sometimes. You can't tell for sure if colors match because there isn't any natural lighting.
Gotcha. Yes, for working professionals I definitely recommending taking an afternoon here or there to come up with a bunch of different combos for work. I'm so not creative early in the morning and I do better when I have a plan and some outfit ideas in mind. I keep a running list of ideas as they pop into my mind and will go back to the list when I need an outfit!
ReplyDeleteSome mornings I consult my pictures on my computer to see what outfits and combos I've done before and do something similar. Sometimes I consult it to see what jewelry is best.
ReplyDeleteThis past weekend I took 30 minutes and found a bunch of outfits to go with 2 different skirts. Some things I tried on did not work. I made a collage with it all. It'll be posting sometime this week. Using the daylight was so nice. There were a few things that I swore didn't go at 6am but clear as day they went.
My hair hates to curl too. By the time I'm done curling my hair, the first curl has fallen out. Yesterday, I tried the technique from the blog that Jessica Holland linked to below and it worked better than anything I've tried before. I used a little split end creme and volumizing mouse before and nothing after. (I hate hairspray.) The wave/curl stayed all day. (Disclaimer: It's not humid here in FL yet, but you know that.) I used a 3/4 inch barrel curling iron. This is the link to the tutorial video: http://www.thesmallthingsblog.com/2011/08/how-to-curl-your-hair-with-curling-iron.html And here is what my hair looked like when I was done. (Since my hair is longer, I thought you might want to see what it would look like.) Dorky self-portrait ahead: http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y13/tmsteele2000/DSCF0001-5.jpg
ReplyDeleteHere's another tutorial I plan on trying that looks promising too: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=karmincovers&annotation_id=annotation_922189&feature=iv#p/u/11/4w0V_yx4s60
Love this! Thank you for the awesome tips Tina! :-)
ReplyDeleteI have never thought twice about your makeup, although I have wondered about your hair. :) I just get bored with mine easily and assumed you didn't. Haha. It's funny that you didn't like your birthday eye makeup- I thought you looked gorgeous in the pictures. But I know that it usually looks much heavier in "real life" than in pictures. I think it's great that you do what you like/ want with your hair and makeup. Isn't that the point, to be yourself? Keep rocking what you do so well. And ps, your eyebrows are amazing if that's them in their own state.
ReplyDeleteThank you Katherine! I think maybe my b-day makeup bothered me b/c my hair was too blonde? Too much at once. And yes - I am all about being yourself. I've heard the argument that b/c I'm a fashion blogger I should be "better" at hair and makeup though. I think a bare minimum of looking nice is good for anyone's image but it's not a big deal if you don't experiment a lot. ps. I think it's funny when people don't believe me about my eyebrows! I think they are way too thin They totally wouldn't look like this if I had any say in it. :-)
ReplyDeleteLove your website!! Just read this post and thought I would share another blog I follow and it has hairstyle tutorials. www.thesmallthingsblog.com. I love doing new and different things with my hair and she has videos on how she does her different hairstyles. Some are simple, like curling your hair and others are updo's. It's a neat blog and has lots of helpful tips on hair and lots of other things!
ReplyDeleteYou are sweet, thank you for the link! :-)
ReplyDeleteI have really thick hair also, J, and I have been getting it thinned since I was about 10! It's kind of scary because when you get it cut they use this special razor and chop off a TON of extra hair; but it makes my head feel about twice as light and allows me to actually style it! Layers are also key for thick hair. I've always had long hair (about to my waist), but no matter the length I always make sure there are lots of short layers. I usually only style my hair like you do-- no blow drying, and if it is done it's down and straight. But if you have a lot of layers you can get away with less style because it adds some natural volume and appeal. Doing all of this has allowed me over the last few years to go out on a limb and try some fun new things (braids, half up-dos, curls, buns, etc). You should really go for the thinning and layering, though. It's a small thing you can do to make a HUGE difference!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jolene! I'm using both thinning and layers as strategies for my thick hair right now! :-)
ReplyDeleteI have super thick hair, so I totally know what you're feeling. And hey, if you feel comfortable with what you do with your hair and makeup, why change it?
ReplyDeleteI found your blog today and I am HOOKED. I feel like you are my twin in so many ways. This post about hair proves it even more. Thick hair is great, except when you have to blow dry it for an hour until your arms hurt for it to look good. Most of the time, I try to blow dry it 3/4 of the way, and put it half back with a small claw clip and run errands or even go to work - a few hours later I'll touch up the hair with a straightener. Or, I just throw hot rollers in and keep them in while getting dressed, they won't stay curly because of the weight of the hair, but you will get a nice wave. That is the easiest way that I have found to do thick hair!
ReplyDeleteZahra
LOVE your blog! So many good ideas and things that make me say "hmmm never would have thought to do it that way!" You are so lucky to have such a beautiful skin color! I read your fitness story post and I really liked your brown hair and natural pink lip color. I think it compliments your complexion very nicely. There's nothing wrong with a laid back beauty routine! Keep up the great posts!
ReplyDeleteI don't think you need to change a thing. We should all be a little happier with what we've been delt, not trying to change so much of ourselves! You're adorable.
ReplyDeleteI just stumbled apon your blog the other day when I typed "what do I wear with black skinny jeans". I have recently started compiling outfits and photographing them so that I have an album of ideas when I need to get ready in a hurry (I have two small chilldren). Anways, I am really enjoying your blog, all the tips you have, the outfit ideas..... so awesome. Thank you for taking the time to do this! I relate with you on many levels and it is refreshing to read a fashion blog that is downt o earth and affordable. Keep up the good work. !
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Jocelyn!! I appreciate this so much; welcome to the blog! :-)
ReplyDeleteYou are just too cute and fun! Glad I stumbled upon your blog... great ideas and tips. I am like you. Very plain jane when it comes to hair and makeup (although I don't wear foundations at all). But I love fashion...you are totally right about balance! :)
ReplyDeleteI can tell you've been taking your color back to it's original color and I love it. It looks so much more natural on you and even give's your face a vibrant glow. I actually, have been taking my hair back to it's natural color and am loving it as well.
ReplyDeleteI love this blog and I am on it all the time. I think that neutral make-up is the best choice. I always do neutral unless I am up on stage.
ReplyDeleteThis is an old post but I just wanted to let you know that your links aren't working, specifically where you mention your makeup routine and "My Fitness Story" at the top of the page!
ReplyDeleteLauren
Exploring My Style
Lauren, thank you so much for the heads up!! I switched from Blogger to Squarespace a couple months ago and there have been SO many problems, a total nightmare. I didn't realize old links within posts weren't working, so I just alerted the appropriate people and hopefully we can get it fixed soon! Thank you again!!
ReplyDeleteHey J, this has nothing to do with the post but I was wondering if you have an outfit description in your albums? I'm new to your blog, and I saw some shoes you wore in your outfit album 4 and would love to know where they're from. I tried your Facebook to see if the same outfit was there with a description, but no luck :/ Anyways the shoes are open toe, they look grayish, and have straps and buckles all across the front. You wore them with a green, it think suede, blazer a lace long sleeve top and some distressed torn jeans. I tried to include a picture but it didn't work. Also have you written about, or have recommendations, for picking colors that best compliment your skin tone, preferably darker skin tones. Thanks for the help!
ReplyDeleteHi Adriana, I'm planning to make the "Outfits" tab searchable at some point, so stay tuned for that. I believe you are talking about a pair of Steve Maddens I had about 3 years ago but I'm not totally sure. (Feel free to email me a pic/screenshot if you want to know for sure). I haven't done a post on skin tones but love the idea, thank you!!
ReplyDeleteI tend to put makeup on every day though I am only going into 8th grade, but I like to do a soft pink or golden since I have blue eyes. I never really do my hair except for straightening it. My hair is never up except for rare occasions. I like the outfit to pop, but sometimes I do very bright lips or something! I also love your blog!!!
ReplyDelete