Best, Finds | No. 10 (And A Surprise)

Late. Again. I know. But the past two weeks have been pretty backed up with plans to move...and actual moving. Hopefully, things will all be in order now that everything on this end is starting to settle down. Luckily, I've had just enough time to find a few new blog posts. Check them out!

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• Though I loved all of these interior design looks, my absolute favorite is the second shot. I love how the dark wood floors contrast against the stark white, brick walls. Everything feels so organic yet polished at the same time. Which, in my opinion, is a pretty difficult task. I love this blog for it's inspiration posts, which I know I'll be stealing ideas from all the time! (BLOOD&CHAMPAGNE)
• I found this post simply adorable. It took two of my favorite things (interior and fashion design) and combined them to create a killer take on a classic mood board. The only bad thing I can say is that after reading it, I wasn't sure if I wanted to redecorate or change my clothes! (Kelly Christine Studio)
• In the event that my boyfriend actually reads this post: babe, don't freak out. I had to include this blog post because these wedding dresses are unconventional and so beautiful. I'm not planning on getting married anytime soon, but when that day comes, I hope I'll be lucky enough to walk down the aisle in one of these gorgeous gowns. (Dust Jacket)
• If you haven't noticed, I kind of have a thing for collages. So naturally, I'm a sucker for a good Instagram recap. I love The Beauty Look Book for her stellar product reviews, but I equally love her for her fabulous photography skills (and from an iPhone no less!). Honestly, I'd much rather gawk at and covet her massive collection of products anyways. (The Beauty Look Book)
• Last, but certainly not least, is a long time favorite of mine: Zoella Sugg. Another beauty blogger and guru on YouTube, she sets herself apart with her bubbly personality, willingness to be vulnerable with her subscribers, and amazing ombre locks. Oddly enough, however, the video I'm suggesting in this week's Best, Finds isn't a beauty video at all! I won't spoil it for you, but I can tell you that she (and her special guest) had me smiling the entire time! (Zoella) 

So that surprise I mentioned.... It's not a huge one; I'm not at giveaway status just yet. But, I personally think it's a good one. If you follow me on Twitter or Instagram then you've already seen this image. For the rest of this week, I'll be writing a new post everyday on Back to School Staples. I'll be covering all the essentials in fashion, beauty, interior decor (or dorm life if we're being real about it), and actual school supplies (like you'll even touch them by second semester). Regardless, this blog will serve as a one-stop shop for everything you need (and need to know) for this school year. We start tomorrow, class. Bring a pencil! 

Summer Wallpapers

Despite my very clear preparedness for fall to come, there are still a few weeks left of summer and honestly, I think we should all enjoy it while it lasts. After all, what other time of the year is it appropriate to take random road trips, eat tons of ice cream, and swim more hours than you sleep? In honor of the remaining summer rays, here are a few iPhone wallpapers to both brighten your screen and spark a little inspiration for one last summer adventure.

Download: Be Great In August | Don't Cry Over A Sunset

The simplest way to download these wallpapers would be to do it straight from your iPhone. Click one (or all) of the links above for the image you would like to use as your wallpaper. Next, press and hold the image and select 'Save Image.' From there you can simply make the saved image your wallpaper via your phone settings. Done!

Hope you enjoy these wallpapers and the remainder of your summer!

Best, Finds | No. 9

My sincerest apologies for this edition of Best, Finds being a bit late. I was pretty backed up in the blog post department (as in over 100 posts backed up). But, now that I'm all caught up I can accurately share some of my favorite posts of the week.

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• I literally just found this blogger today and I'm already in love. If you didn't know, I have a serious weakness for neon, so this post immediately caught my eye. I definitely want to play with more color and this post has re-sparked a few ideas I've been wanting to try. I may not go as bold as Lily did, but I can add color to my fairly neutral makeup palette. (ETC LLYMLRS)
• I've been a huge fan of this YouTuber's style for a very long time and it still bothers me that she doesn't have a physical blog to accompany her videos. The looks she creates are always so unique and editorial ready, and her most recent lookbook is no exception. I would love to see them all put on display so that I can simply scroll through and gawk at each outfit. Until that day, however, her videos will do just fine. (TheChicNatural)
• When it comes to blogging, I'm constantly learning and growing. Luckily for me, Zoe Louise wrote a post all about HTML basics that every blogger should know. I've always wanted to try my hand at this and now I have a solid jumping off point. I'm super excited to try a few of these tips and improve upon my blog even further. (Sweet Electric)
• "So fresh and so clean, clean" is what comes to mind when I enter Oh So Pretty. The title suits the blog because everything (literally everything) posted is oh, so pretty. That includes this post which features a few of her current favorites. I have to say, I completely see why she would be loving each item. (Oh So Pretty)
• Beauty and the Blog is also another very recent find and I was completely floored by her beauty. In addition to her blog, she also has a YouTube channel that I took a peek at. I love her makeup aesthetic: clean, simple, and enhancing of her natural drop dead gorgeous-ness. I know I'm being super generous with the compliments, but take a look for yourselves and see if I was exaggerating. Go on, do it. (Beauty and the Blog)

July Favorites 2014

Beauty | As I was looking back on my past monthly favorites, I was extremely surprised to find that I had never mentioned this product. I tend not to wear much makeup in the summer because, well let's face it, I'll just sweat it off anyway. But, if I do wear something, it will be mascara. This one has proved itself time and time (and time) again. Personally, I'm not as concerned with volume as I am with length and this mascara makes my lashes look miles long. It has a fairly thin formula that doesn't clump together and a curved, plastic brush to grab every single lash...even the ones you didn't know you had! 

Body | Let me tell you about this amazing facial cleanser. I've been itching to try this product for a while actually and it's exceeded my expectations. Now to be fair, I can't really report back on how well it keeps my face clear. I only bought it about a week ago *shmoney dances* (points if you know that reference) and, of course, this would be the week before Mother Nature strikes. So, until my hormonal acne calms itself, I won't be able to give you an accurate reading on this product. Once it does, however, you can expect a full Report Card on it.

Fashion | No shopping means no new fashion favorite. Sorry guys!

Accessories | Another recent purchase, this Aldo watch set has me obsessed. Not only was it completely affordable (it was only $35 $30!), but it's also a great investment piece. With five interchangeable straps, it's more like I bought five watches for $6 each! I'm guessing you can pick up on my thought process as I was trying to convince myself (and my friends) that this was a reasonable purchase. However, if you're concerned about its quality, both the straps and the watch face are sturdy and made of quality material. Plus, each piece is only $5 to replace if there ever is an issue. If you're looking for some new arm candy without breaking the bank, Aldo makes this set in several colors and patterns (the set that I bought is not shown). Give it a try!

Techie | Oddly enough, I also don't have a new techie favorite this month. I suppose it's been a little slow on the electronics front in July.

Song | Oh. My. Goodness. Gracious. This song features two of my favorite artists and I literally could not be more ecstatic about this collaboration. Beyoncé has shown her much more tough and sultry side this past album (Heyyyy, Mrs. Carter) while Nicki has been toning her look and sound down a few notches. The result? A song where the two can meet right in the middle. Both women flawlessly (no pun intended, I swear) shut down circulating rumors and shut up any haters in less than four minutes. Girl power at its finest.

Munchies | This is always a favorite so I've never even thought to include it, ironically. I eat them pretty often for breakfast. They taste good and fill you up without leaving you feeling weighed down. Nature Valley in general does granola pretty well. I'm just not a fan of their more notable crunchy bars. There is absolutely no cute way to eat them...ever.

1. L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara 2. Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser 3. Aldo watch set 4. Flawless Remix by Beyoncé featuring Nicki Minaj 5. Nature Valley Fruit and Nut Trail Mix Bar

Best, Finds | No. 8

This week's Best, Finds is very fashion heavy so if you're not a huge fan of that...I'm not really sure why you would be reading my blog. (Don't leave though!) I fell head over heels for each and every one of these looks and I hope they put a smile on your face this Monday.

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• First up: See Want Shop. At this point there isn't much more I can say about the woman. Bad outfit days simply don't exist for her...or if they do they just aren't photographed. I need to update my wardrobe soon for fall so I'll definitely have this look bookmarked as inspiration and have tons of screenshots from her blog saved to my phone. Looks like I'll have to delete a few apps to make room; sorry Candy Crush! (See Want Shop)
• So I realize I have a few repeat offenders on the blog today, but I can't help it if I love these ladies' style! Sea of Shoes also showed off this week in a gorgeous patterned number. What made the shoot even better was the incredible blue background filling the shot. With her bright red locks against it, can you say sensory overload?! And I do mean that in the most fabulous way possible. (Sea of Shoes)
• In case you missed it, I'm in college studying public relations so I'm constantly checking websites like NYC PR Girl. I actually contribute to a similar site myself, Philly PR Girl. Recently, NYC PR Girl wrote a great article for girls like me with creative professions describing different outfit options for interviewing at a creative firm. Luckily, our industry allows us plenty of creative freedom when it comes to style so when it comes to outfit choices, the limit does not exist. 50 points to you if you got that reference. (NYC PR Girl)
• The only blog post that doesn't have to do with fashion, Coco Lapine Design won me over with this home decor feature. I love how the place gives off a monochromatic feel without actually being one note. The light neutral colors are grounded by the subtle touches of black and brown throughout the room. I feel like I should tote this blog along in my pocket when I'm finally ready to go interior decorating shopping. In fact, I think I will. So long, Sound Cloud app. I'll catch you on my laptop. (Coco Lapine Design)
• Last, but certainly not least, is another one of my long-time favorite YouTubers. Jenn Im of Clothes Encounters has been a staple of mine for quite a while now. I'm constantly living vicariously through her because she is fearless enough to wear whatever it is her mind creates for the day. Sometimes her style is more laid-back and subdued, but other times you better watch out because Jenn has arrived! Either way, I absolutely love the way she styles herself and it doesn't hurt that her film editing skills are just as fabulous. Note: She's recently reached a major YouTube milestone gaining over 1 million followers; huge congratulations to her! (Clothes Encounters) 

Hope you enjoy these finds and remember, I would love your help! Send over blogs or YouTube channels that you feel deserve a little recognition. I'm always looking for fresh content to share.