A Little Public Service Announcement

If you haven't noticed, I've been a bit M.I.A. The reason behind that is I've been grappling with the thought of a pretty major rebrand. While many bloggers often blog through that process, I haven't been able to work well. Creatively, it feels as if my mind is in two different places and I know that I'll need to take a little time to sort a few things out. I really appreciate all of you and I hope you can bear with me. I'll do my best to give you a few beauty tips here and there to keep you looking your best in the meantime.

Best, Finds | No. 11

Guess who's back. Back again. I know it's been a while since you've heard from me, but I must admit I had a pretty hectic start to this school year and this hiatus was much needed. That being said, let me share some of my favorite internet finds since I've been away.

one | two | three | four | five

• This has absolutely nothing to do with beauty, fashion, decor, or anything else I typically talk about but I adore this family. I've been watching their growth for a while now and they make me smile each and every time. I figured I would share them because I know if they bring me joy, they just might do the same for you. Plus, they make beautiful children so just a warning, they may cause baby fever. Sorry! (The LaVigne Life)
• In keeping with the theme of putting a smile on my face, this post instantly lifted my spirits. There are few things cuter than a good Instagram board and I loved this one by Lorelai's Things. Honestly the attraction was probably due to the huge amounts of neon...but what else is new? It also is a great farewell to summer, which couldn't have come at a more apt time. The leaves are already changing here and I'm pulling out my fall jackets and this is the perfect way to say goodbye. (Lorelai's Things) 
• I never include men's fashion but that's something that has to change. Luckily, I have a good friend who knows a thing or two about it. I featured him not too long ago and I've fallen in love with his own blog. His sense of style is impeccable and his creativity inspires me...whether he knows it or not. Well, I suppose the secret is out now. (The Timeless Aesthetic) 
• Wishlists. We all have them. Whether they're simply mental, scribbled down in our notebooks or we have entire picture boards dedicated to them; we all have them. These next two blog posts are wishlists that make me want to add on to my own. First up, this beauty list has a few high-end items that I've been eyeing for a long time. I may have to wait a little longer and add them to my Christmas list, but they'll be mine soon enough! (Dizzy Brunette) 
• This next wishlist is more fashion focused, which is equally important. My favorite season to dress for is fall. The jackets, boots, and layers bring out a freshened sense of creativity that I look forward to every year. It seems I'm not the only one that feels the same way because Jourdin has put together a pretty fabulous list of fall essentials. Check it out! (BonJourdin)

As always, if there are any links you've loved feel free to share them with me so I can give them a look! 

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!

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

• 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.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

• 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.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

• 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. 

Tips & Tricks Tuesday | Quick Solutions for Sudden Breakouts

We've all been there. Our skin can be flawless for days, weeks, even months at at time, but every now and then, we get that pesky pimple. It can be frustrating, especially when you think you've finally nailed a skincare routine that works for you. However, there's always a solution. Here are a few tips you can try if you're faced (no pun intended) with a sudden breakout.

cred.

• Break your routine | If you've been exfoliating more frequently, take a break and try a more gentle cleanser. The same goes for if you've been using a simple face wash, try exfoliating a couple days out of the week. Sometimes our skin, much like us, can settle into a routine and get a bit too comfortable. By changing your routine, you're giving your skin a little wake up call to start rejuvenating itself again. 
• Go back to an old favorite | An old, trusted product is old and trusted for a reason. It's that product that you always seem to repurchase. Though you may not use it everyday, when you do, it always comes through. If you're someone who constantly likes to try new things (i.e. a skincare junkie), take a break from experimenting and go back to a product that you know works well with your skin. I'm sure it would appreciate a visit from an old friend. 
• Treat the problem, and only the problem | If you're only battling one spot as opposed to a major breakout, focus your energy (and products) solely on that area. Many acne treatments can be quite drying to the skin, so using it all over the face can actually end up doing more harm than good in the long run. Sure, the problem area will disappear, but the "good skin" can end up extremely dried out. Then you'll have another battle on your hands: flaky skin. That's never cute.

Now, if you're experiencing sudden breakouts because it's that wonderful time of the month, unfortunately, you may just have to wait it out. You can try all of the tips above, but period acne is caused by internal hormonal changes. External treatments can subdue breakouts, but won't eliminate them completely. Drink plenty of water, eat chocolate whenever you want, and just be patient. It'll all be over soon.

Hope you found this helpful! If you have any other breakout treatment related questions, you're always welcome to ask in the comments section below or chat with me on Twitter! 

Best, Finds | No. 7

Almost two months into Best, Finds and I've really been enjoying this series. I hope you have been too! As always, if there are any internet finds of your own that you would like to share with me, feel free! For now, here are a few of my favorite posts of the last week.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

• As soon as I watched this video I knew I had to share it with all of you. Tanya Burr is another YouTuber that I've been watching for a long time now. Her accent is adorable, her personality is always bubbly, and you just can't help but fall in love with her. However, what made me want to share her most recent Get Ready With Me (GRWM) was her outfit. I absolutely adore everything about it, especially the shoes. Check it out and you'll see what I mean. (Tanya Burr)
• As always, The Man Repeller is one step ahead of me. While I am enjoying the summer rays, nothing would satisfy me more than the temperature dropping a few (okay, several) degrees so that I can bring out my boots and leather jacket. It would seem that the writers over at MR feel the same way; they've already started drafting up a fall fashion wish list of sorts. Though I was trying to live in the moment and enjoy the remainder of the summer, they have only validated my feelings for fall to pick up the pace and arrive already. (The Man Repeller)
• If you don't know by now, I have a serious affinity towards more minimalistic styles...in fact if you don't know that, you must be new here. Welcome! Anyways, because of my lust over all things plain, this post by Into The Gloss had me at "The Best Barely-There Nail Polishes." I want to try every single one of them, although that may get quite repetitive. I'll simply justify it by using every beauty girl's go-to excuse, "They aren't exactly the same." That ought to do the trick. (Into The Gloss)
• I don't believe I've talked about the weight loss journey that I've embarked on this summer yet, but I don't see why I wouldn't share that with you. Of course, I still slip up; I'm a poor college kid with three 7-Eleven branches at my disposal. However, overall, I think I've been doing much better with my eating habits. Luckily, I came across this post earlier this week which is sure to help me stay on track and help me get rid of those last stubborn inches off my waist. I'll be sure to keep you updated on my progress! (Amelia Liana)
• I haven't been following her for long, but I've fallen absolutely head over heels for Kristina of Kayture. Everything about her style appears so effortless and I've loved every look she's posted. It doesn't hurt that she's been travelling recently so each style post has had some spectacular back drop to accompany it. This particular post shot in Greece has to be one of my favorites so far, with Mykonos being on my bucket list of places to visit. What's more? She's 20 years old! At 21, I could be tempted to question my life choices while gawking at her blog but instead, she's only pushed me to work even harder. Thanks Kristina! (Kayture)

Remember to check out these phenomenal bloggers and feel free to recommend any of your favorites below!

What I Wore | 07.22.14

1 | 2 | 3

The other day, it was pretty hot to say the least. So, I opted for this sheer crop top that I paired with a black strapless bra. I also added this flowy, cotton maxi skirt to give my legs some semblance of breathing room. Because it hangs a little long on me (and because I wanted to add a little interest), I tied the hem of the skirt into a low-hanging knot, something I often do. I threw on my trusted minimalistic sandals and called it a day. Unfortunately, I could no longer find the sandals online, so I linked a similar pair with an added metallic detail instead.

Once I get a fairly nice camera, I plan on taking a few shots of my OOTDs to bring you even more What I Wore posts. If there's anything specific you would like to see, let me know!

Best, Finds | No. 6

This past week...has been super long to say the least. Luckily, I was able to find a few moments to relax and enjoy these posts.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

• I often struggle with taking high quality photos using my iPhone 4S, but this post by Nouvelle Daily gave me plenty of ideas on how to change all that. It may not be perfect quality, but it will definitely improve my Instagram posts from now on! (Nouvelle Daily)
• Interior design isn't something that I talk about often on my blog, but I want to start incorporating it slowly. I've recently found so many home decor blogs that my inspiration bookmark folder is getting ridiculous. One of those blogs is Homesick, which has helped me think of creative ways to decorate my new place and I could not be more excited. (Homesick)
• I haven't stumbled upon a good manicure post in a little while so when I saw this, my eyes lit up. I've been seriously into neutrals lately (in every area) and it would seem that nails are no exception. If I had the time to execute this properly, I would. Until then, I suppose I'll just have to stick to my one-note fingers. (Door Sixteen)
• I ran into something I've never thought of doing: a makeup detox. But I'm torn. On the one hand, I could never fathom throwing out any of my makeup. On the other, I look through my collection all too often and say, "Ew, I don't even use this anymore." This post came at the perfect time for me to kick my hoarder ways, in the midst of my move. Hopefully it will help you as well! (Gh0st Parties)
• She's baaaaaaaack! One of my absolute favorite bloggers and YouTubers, Shirley B. Eniang, has finally returned and looks better than ever. I've been a huge fan of her style (in fashion, makeup, and interior design) for over a year now and I'm happy to see that her recent life detox has rejuvenated her. I should definitely take a page out of her book and make a few changes. With so many new and exciting things on the horizon, I need to be prepared to face them all with a smile and a confident attitude. (Shirley's Wardrobe)

Hope you enjoy these posts from these lovely ladies of the internet! I know I did. And remember, let me know in the comments below if there's anything I missed that you would like me to check out!

Report Card | Sephora Collection Contour Eye Pencil in Flashy Green

I've had this eyeliner since my senior year of high school when the product was known as Sephora Flashy Eyeliner. I'm not sure when I first picked it up, however I do remember the moment I realized it would remain in my makeup collection for a very long time.

The last day of senior year is a notorious tear-fest, but despite all of the crying I did that day, this eyeliner (which I rimmed on my lower lash line by the way) did not budge at all. When I got into my friend's car and checked my face in the mirror, I expected to see a green, streaky mess, but to my surprise, everything stayed in place!

If you're looking to add a pop of color to your summer makeup routine, give this product a try in any one of their incredible, long-lasting shades. It will stay on even the most oily skin or the biggest cry babies. Already a fan of this product? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Hope you enjoyed the first installment of this new series, Report Card, which will solely feature product reviews. As always, I'm open to feedback so if there's anything you would like me to review let me know!

Tips & Tricks Tuesday | One Product Three Ways

Today's tip will be fairly brief, but a good tip nonetheless. I've been using Noxzema products for years now, but it never occurred to me that the way I use it is different from others. Here are a few ways I use the moisturizing product as much more than just a cleanser.

• Cleanser | Of course, Noxzema has been a tried and trusted deep facial cleanser for decades now (it's been on the market since 1914, in fact). I inherited my love for Noxzema from my mother, but after trying several other cleansers, this one has been a consistent staple in my regimen for years now, and it will remain that way for years to come. It cleans deeply without stripping your skin of all its moisture. It actually leaves your skin feeling more moisturized and softer than before! The tingly feeling the eucalyptus oil provides is simply an added bonus.
• Face Mask | This is actually a little trick I picked up about a year ago. The concept is the same: you apply the product to your face generously. The only difference is the amount of time you leave it on. Typically, I apply the Noxzema to my face while it's dry and leave it on while I shower. Once I'm done showering, I simply rinse it off and keep it moving. Doing it this way is super efficient when you're pressed for time and makes for an even deeper clean. 
• Shaving Cream | I shared this tip in passing with a friend this morning and was met with a blank stare. I had adopted this trick so long ago that I didn't even realize that I'm probably one a few that does it! I can't remember where I picked up the habit, but it comes in handy when I run out of shaving gel. In fact, most of the time I don't even buy shower gel anymore; Noxzema has become my one-stop shop. It moisturizes the shaving area just as it would your face, which is great because moisturizing the area softens the hair follicles and makes for an easier, cleaner shave. All you're left with is clean, baby smooth skin. 

Pick up a jar of Noxzema Moisturizing Cleansing Cream to test these tips out for yourself! It's relatively inexpensive and a little goes a long way so this large container will last a while and you're sure to get your money's worth. Let me know how it works out for you in the comments below!

Best, Finds | No. 5

Not that I've been very consistent with this, but when I originally started this series, my intention was to post every Saturday. However, I've come to realize I don't like posting on the weekends...and I often forget to schedule Best, Finds ahead of time. Despite my shortcomings, I've also realized that I thoroughly enjoy posting on Mondays. There's something about starting off a new work week with a blog post that makes it more bearable. I mean after all, while it is work to maintain a blog, for me, it's more comforting than it is tedious. I said all that to say that Best, Finds will now be posted every Monday. A fresh list of great links to kick off the week. So, without further ado, here are the best things I've found over the past week.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

• As a long time fan of Kelly of The Glamourai (and long time mis-speller of the blog's name), I've noticed that she always seems to style herself so effortlessly. This week, of course, was no exception as she reminds us that monochromatic palettes are truly timeless. (The Glamourai) 
• I haven't shared much related to interior design, but if you follow me on Pinterest then you know how much I love it. Apparently, Thou Swell has a weakness for decor as well. The clean palette he shared recently really appealed to me and since I'll be moving soon, I need all the inspiration I can get! (Thou Swell)
• Speaking of weaknesses, I've always had a soft spot for tie-dye and watercolor effects. I'm not exactly sure why. Knowing that, it should come as no surprise that I fell head over heels for the pieces Folk & Fest posted this week. I would wear every single one...every single day. (Folk & Fest)
• What can I say about Karla? Um, how about she's wonderful? Another style blogger I've followed for years now, she always pushes the boundaries while somehow remaining so subdued and classy. I love it. (Karla's Closet)
• As if I needed another reason to add things to my own wishlist, Emma Lou created one of her own that I completely need to steal items from. But don't worry Emma, I'm sure Urban Outfitters has enough to satisfy the both of us. (Emma Lou)

Hope you enjoyed and, as always, if there's a blog post, YouTube video, or anything on the web that you think was amazing this past week, share in the comments below!

F+ | Just The Two of Us

Philadelphia, PA

On Me
1. Dress | Express
2. Shoes | Eternity Fashion on Chestnut Street
3. Lip color | Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Va Va Violet

On Daryl
1. Top | Express
2. Bowtie | Express
3. Slacks | Men's Warehouse
4. Shoes | Steve Madden

If you follow either of us on Instagram, these pictures are nothing new. But for those of you who don't, here's a little peak at what the two of us wore to Beyonce and Jay Z's On The Run Tour last Saturday.

Honestly, this post was only supposed to feature my boyfriend. Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on how you look at it), neither of us took any individual pictures...at least any that turned out nice. But together, I think they turned out pretty amazing.

If you want to see these pictures before anyone else the next time around (and I know you do), follow us on our social networks!

Daryl's Instagram | Daryl's Twitter | My Instagram | My Twitter

The Summer Beauty Tag

I really enjoy participating in tags so I thought, why not one more? Hope you enjoy!

What is the best part of summer time?

Swimming! I didn't realize how much I loved swimming until I made the decision to stay in Philadelphia for the summer. I still have yet to find a great outdoor pool or make a day trip to the beach, but that has to change soon if I'm going to keep my sanity.

Do you tan or burn?

I tan...a lot. I can actually count on one hand the number of black people I know that have gotten sunburned. Perhaps it's the melanin it our skin that keeps us from being burned. I'll look that up. 

Favorite summer nail polish?

This year it's been changing a lot so I won't name a specific brand and color name. But, I have been gravitating towards bright shades of orange and powder blues. 

Favorite summer drink/beverage?

Lemonade, iced coffee, and mojitos. 

Favorite summer clothing item?

Maxi skirts and crop tops. Sorry that was two items; clearly I'm not good at following directions. 

Favorite phone app during this summer?

Overall, I think this question is kind of dumb but I suppose I'll say Instagram because it's full of great vacation photos.

Favorite summer movie?

Again, kind of a dumb question but I guess I'll go with any superhero movie. Those are typically really big summer blockbusters and I'm a huge fan of them all.

Favorite summer beauty product?

Anything with a gold, peach, or bronze shimmer. Those tones look great against my skin tone when the sun hits it.

Favorite summer activity?

Swimming! I swear, if I don't get in a pool soon I'm going to lose it. 

Favorite type of lip product for the summer time?

Lip balm with SPF. Easy. 

If you'd also like to participate, I tag you! Feel free to copy and paste The Summer Beauty Tag questions in your platform and share your own thoughts. I'd love to hear all of your summer favorites; comment below with the link to your answers so I can check it out!

Best, Finds | On The Run J+B

Best, Finds will return to its regularly scheduled programming, but first, there's no way I can go without sharing with you my experience at Jay Z and Beyonce's On The Run tour. Honestly, there are no words to properly express how amazing their show was and, truthfully, "show" isn't even the right word to describe what I witnessed. It felt as if I was watching a live play of their life together. Their combined body of work spans decades and their relationship together is a close second. They used their songs to tell the audience a story starting from the beginning of their relationship, touching on the hardships in between, and ending on a beautiful note, reassuring the crowd of their future together, stronger than ever.

Happy Birthday America!

Usually I would post a  picture of fireworks because...well, I'm obsessed with them. I live for holidays like Independence Day simply because I know I'll be able to see fireworks light up the night sky. This year, however, I opted to embrace our red, white, and blue in a cute little mood board that you can feel free to share.

If you're spending the 4th in Philadelphia, here's a list of a ton of great things to do today. Wherever you are, stay safe and have an amazing time!

June Favorites 2014

Beauty | So, don't judge me, but I borrowed yet another nail polish from Amber this month. I've been wanting to try a bright orange on my nails and this color is perfect. It's coral in some lights, neon orange in others, and perfect in all of them. P.S. Shameless plug: Amber has recently rebranded and it's absolutely gorgeous. Check it out!

Body | I've always trusted St. Ives as a brand in general so if I'm looking to try something new, I know they'll come through. Of course, when I went to look for a good body scrub, their sea salt one didn't disappoint. I typically prefer more coarse body scrub because I'm a glutton for punishment, but I know that in the long run this more gentle exfoliant is healthier for my skin.

Fashion | I bought these ages ago but I've been wearing them so much this month...probably too much actually. They're like the classy version of sweatpants to me. You can dress them up or down depending on how you accessorize and they're beyond comfortable. I have them in black and in a blue tie dye pattern but I definitely plan on getting at least one more pair before the summer's up.

Accessories | I'm not sure if I've ever shared this piece on the blog, but my boyfriend Daryl got me this two Christmases ago. It's not exactly a June favorite but more of an all-the-time favorite. I especially love rose gold accents in the summer as my skin tans; it's the best contrast.

Techie | I could use this as an opportunity to go on a rant about my broken cell phone but instead I'll just talk about my saving grace. You never realize how dependent you are on technology until you don't have it. So to feed my addiction, Mavericks stepped in to fill the place of my phone. I was finally able to text again and the new notifications feature is everything I never knew I needed. I'm not really sure how they're going to top this system in the fall.

Song | I've easily played Na Na over a billion and two times this month and I regret nothing. The album, of course, is nothing short of perfection and you should get it immediately. You're welcome.

Munchies | I wish I had something new to share but I honestly haven't tried anything new this month...adventurous, I know. Let me know if there's anything you've been loving that you think I should try in July!

1. Wet n Wild MegaLast Salon Nail Color in Club Havana 2. St. Ives Purifying Sea Salt Body Wash 3. H&M Harem Pants 4. Fossil Stella Watch 5. Apple OS X Mavericks 6. Na Na by Trey Songz

Best, Finds | No. 4

Remember how I said I had plenty of great posts to share this week? Well, I actually have a bit too many. In an effort to keep this post relatively brief, my recap of each post will be much shorter. You'll just have to follow the links to get the full experience!

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

• Possibly the best tip ever, The Beauty Department shares a much more clever way to correct any eye makeup mistakes. (The Beauty Department)
• I stumbled upon the cutest blog this week called Northern Belle Diaries. What an adorable name right? Anyways, her most recent post documenting her trip to Old San Juan reminded me of my time there this time last year and brought back some amazing memories. (Northern Belle Diaries)
• I haven't shared this but I enjoy the occasional drink or two...okay I'm in college so you do the math. Thanks to Cassie of Witty Title Here, I now have a few options that won't expand my waistline. (Witty Title Here)
• The Man Repeller showed me that my obsession with Kendall Jenner is completely justified. For that, I am grateful. (The Man Repeller)
• I love this look. I love this blog. I love her. So much. The gorgeous tribal-inspired dress that she features is absolutely gorgeous and so on trend. Take a look at this head-turning ensemble. (Vanilla Extract)
• Last, but not least, is this great blogger playlist put together by Latrina over at Of Trees and Hues. This is the fourth playlist she's put together and they get better every time. I'm so excited to be included in her summer mix and I hope to contribute to more in the future! (Of Trees and Hues)

As always, I hope you enjoy these post just as much as I did!