Gifts For Her Under $50

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While shopping is one of my favorite pastimes, I have such a hard time thinking of what to gift people for the holidays. Some people are so easy, and other are extremely difficult just depending on their personality. If you are shopping for someone where it is hard to take the “personal” approach to gifting, you may find yourself in a rut. And when you aren’t looking to spend a lot of money, things get near to impossible to find a good gift. When I am put in this position, I try to think gifts I would love to receive, and think, what is something that I wouldn’t buy for myself? Taking that into consideration, I have curated a list of gifts for her you can find under $50.

Slippers

Slippers are something that everyone loves and wants, but they just seem impractical to buy since you never wear them outside of the house. So what better way to get a pair of slippers than being gifted them? I love these from Madewell as sherpa is a staple this fall, but I have included links to others as well.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Lululemon really knew what they were doing calling this the everywhere bag, because the people that wear these wear them everywhere; workout, errands, bars – the list goes on. The green color is perfect, but if you’re not a fan check out the fifteen others.

Kosas “Take The Site Home” Kit

For the beauty lover that has everything – this is it. This is one of my all time favorite brands as I have their skin tint, concealer and bronzer. With this $35 kit, you are able to test every shade of every product from Kosas. If you find a product you like, you can use the $35 you used to purchase the kit as a gift certificate on their website. Definitely one of the coolest ideas I have seen in beauty, and it is only available on Kosas website.

Luxury Laundry Detergent

Laundry detergent is one of those things I hate to buy because it can be so expensive for no reason. SO, this would be a great gift to receive. The Le Labo detergent smells amazing, and another favorite of mine is the Glamorous Wash in the scent Diva.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk On The Go Kit

If you have been on any social media, you know that Charlotte Tilbury was the beauty brand of 2021 – for a good reason. The cult favorite Pillow Talk line is the perfect makeup-no-makeup for glam or day to day wear. This kit retails for $50 and consist of a mini eye pencil, mascara, lip liner and lipstick.

The Five Minute Journal

I can’t even count how many times I have talked about The Five-Minute Journal on this website, so you know this has to be worth it. This daily journal is the perfect gift for anyone no matter their age, as it practices gratitude and reminds us of the importance of each day. Highly recommend.

Nice Candles

As a very new adult, I love burning candles but I hate buying them, as buying candles I love are just not in my budget right now. This Kacey Musgraves candle is hands down my favorite candle I have had over the past year, and it has 50 hours of burn time. I have linked some of my other favorites as well, because no one is ever upset if they are gifted a candle.

Skims Mock Neck Tank

I know that it is winter, but it is never too cold to layer. I personally do not own this tank, but have heard beyond amazing things about. Skims has many affordable pieces under $50, if you if are wanting to gift a set instead of just one piece you are looking at about $60 depending on the items you select. This red color came out for the holidays and is stunning. Wearing this under a blazer with jeans and sneakers sounds right up my alley – and about half of the population’s alley too.

Fun Earrings

Buying new earrings can add up, especially if you don’t want them to turn after a few wears. Studs has the best earrings at a good price point, and they are great quality. They have so many fun earrings like these cowboy boot huggies, alphabet studs, square hoops and more.

Claw Clips

Girls basically exclusively wear their hair in claw clips now, so receiving one is always appreciated to add to the collection. Emi Jay makes the best clips, and you can find these all on Revolve.

Venus Et Fleur Le Mini

While yes, it sounds steep to pay $40 for one rose, this one rose will live all year and yes, it is real. This singular floral arrangement is the perfect gift for the person that actually has everything and is a ~material girl~

Pajama Set

Run, don’t walk, because J.Crew’s pajama sets are only $39. If you missed the sale do not worry, they are running sales all through Christmas. Thank me later!

If you have any gifts for her under $50 you would like yo recommend, please reach out and I can add them to the list (:

Happy Holidays!

What I’ve Been Loving

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I don’t know about you but when I find something I love, I love it. I will love it so much I will run it into the ground and then randomly one day just hate it. But for the time being, they are they best things around. This goes for anything; clothes, breakfast foods, tv shows, etc.

Everything listed below is what I’ve been loving the past few months.

Tinx Erewhon Smoothie

I have a feeling this smoothie is going to be a breakfast go-to for a while. This smoothie “taste like a healthy chocolate milkshake” and is INSANELY filling. Full of protein and healthy fast, I have made this two days in a row and I don’t see this slowing down soon.

Here is where I found the recipe (I add a little honey as well).

New Balance 990v5 Sneakers

These have been a favorite since February, and they are not going anywhere anytime soon. Despite the fact these may look like dad sneakers they are trendy in an ironic way. Sometimes I even sub these for my running shoes if I’m going on a long walk – and honestly can say I’ve never worn a comfier shoe.

These are hard to come around as they are selling out quickly, so click here because Shopbop currently has them stocked up in every size.

Trucker Hats

The hats that have been seen everywhere this summer are a staple to my wardrobe. I love wearing trucker hats with braids, my hair down, in a bun – honestly this accessory never fails me. Some people are saying these will go out of style soon, but I guarantee a baseball style hat will never go out of style.

This hat specifically is from Aviator Nation, but I have also purchased hats from Amazon and Depop.

Anything Goes podcast hosted by Emma Chamberlin

I am a big podcast person. I love podcast because I can get content while on the go. This podcast in particular is at the top of my list. Anything Goes is hosted by Emma Chamberlin and is my go to podcast when I need a reminder that life is going alright, lol. This was recommended to me by my college roommate who describe listening to Emma talking “is like talking to a friend”. I couldn’t describe it better myself.

AptDeco

I am in the process of looking for new items for my first apartment, and a quickly realized that furnishing a new place is PRICEY. Like very pricey. And most of the time if you want high quality/ long lasting items, it comes with a hefty price tag. AptDeco carriers brands like CB2, Article, West Elm and more that are lightly used and at a great price point. And even better – they ship to select areas.

Kosas Sun Show Baked Bronzer

This bronzer is the highlight of my makeup routine – literally. This gives the perfect summer glow that every person is trying to achieve.

This comes in three shades but they always seem to be out of stock, so run to Sephora while they still have them.

Color Wow Dreamcoat Supernatural Spray

This spray has single-handedly saved the texture of my hair. This anti-fix and heat protectant works like a charm, I. haven’t used anything better. I spray this in my hair as soon as I get out of the shower. You’re supposed to then style immediately after, but it still works after air drying and then going in with a straighter. 10/10, couldn’t recommend more.

All sold out on Sephora, but get this on Amazon today.

Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra

This is by far my favorite sports bra I have ever won. This blows every Lululemon bra out of the water. This is best for high impact workouts or for running, and will keep you in place and comfortable the whole time.

This comes in four colors and is finally back on OV’s website.

Beauty Trends For The Everyday Minimalist To Try

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When it comes to beauty I normally keep things very tame. Same makeup, skincare and hair care every day. If you know me you know I have a hard time wearing colors as I tend to stick to neutrals – just seems more practical in my opinion. But over the past few months color has taken over my Instagram feed and TikTok big time. Colorful nails, hair accessories, etc. are all the rage. While they are definitely in style I just can’t seem to hop on some of the trends that seem so “out there”. Not because I am afraid to wear a bright lip or anything of that sorts, but just because it doesn’t feel like myself. And when it comes to fashion or beauty, that is all I am trying to accomplish; feeling like myself.

I have been wanting to branch out of my normal neutral color palette in terms of beauty and still manage to feel comfortable with what I have on. If you are in the same boat, here are some beauty trends for you to try to step up your everyday looks.

Bright Blush

Something that I have changed up the past few months is switching up the blush I use from day to day. Recently, Kylie Jenner has been using Dior Backstage’s Rosy Glow Blush, which comes in two super pigmented colors. Definitely a good summer look.

Patterned Nails

Nail art is extremely popular right now and I love it. But something I don’t love is worrying about is if my nails are going to match my outfit or not – which is why I want to try neutral nail art. Still part of the trend, but ensured to match everything you wear.

P.S. – I think the colorful nail art is popular in the summer, but we will be seeing more neutral nail art coming up in the fall.

Colorful Eyeliner

Not eyeshadow; eyeliner. Liquid colorful eyeliner I think adds such a chic yet playful look to your makeup routine, and I really would like to try it myself. Chose the right color eyeliner for your eyes pop!

Hint: chose an eye liner that is complementary of your eye color.

Dewy Highlighter

Something I tend to skip in my everyday makeup is highlighter, which I shouldn’t because in my opinion it elevates your whole look. Especially in the summer – this is a must. To get the most glowy, dewy look go for a liquid highlighter like Becca Ignite Liquid Highlighter.

Upgraded Up-Do’s

Knowing how to style an up-do is essential especially during these hot summer months. I have been wearing my hair in a ponytail constantly and trying to style it different just to switch things up. Again, not a large change but something slight to get me to try something new.

My up-do go-to’s: slicked back ponytail, claw clips, and pigtail braids.

Shimmer Eyeshadow

This 2000’s trend is making a large comeback in the world of beauty. This is the easiest thing you could add to your makeup routine, as you don’t even need a brush to apply it. Shimmer eyeshadow is so forgiving, effortless and simple which is perfect to upgrade your everyday minimalist look.

Try the cult favorite Stila Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow or if you want to get this look from Hailey Bieber, opt for the Bare Minerals Gen Nude Rose Palette.

Clean Products You Need From Sephora’s Spring Sale

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It’s that time of year – Sephora’s Spring Sale. I am a Sephora addict loving everything from their skincare to fragrance. I have tried an ample amount of products, so I can tell you what’s worth it and what you can get to find the best bang for your buck.

While looking for makeup, skincare, etc. I tend to look towards clean products. Clean products are so much easier on your skin. Simple ingredients for a simple beauty look, and a simple, glowy look is exactly what I strive for. So if that’s what you like as well, I highly recommend the products below.

Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops

These are my holy grail to keep me look like i have some life to me. These aren’t clear drops like most on the market, but a bronze color with some shine that is perfect to mix into your moisturizer.

Kosas Skin Tint

I purchased this product last summer and have bought it ever since. If you have uneven skin/ redness and just want to even out your skin tone this is perfect. It’s super light which is great for the upcoming hot spring and summer months.

Caudalíe Detox Face Mask

This is a great face mask to use a few times a week to clean out your pores. I struggle with my pores and this makes a difference. It’s a clay mask and leaves my face feeling fresh and hydrated after I rinse it off.

Ilia Tinted Lip Oil

The most natural lip color you’ll ever wear. So light and natural, it feels like I have nothing on. Honestly if I could only have one lip product for the rest of my life, it would be this.

Sephora Collection Nourishing Moisturizer

I used to be a fan of the Drunk Elephant moisturizers, but they got too pricey to continue to purchase. This is the BEST dupe I have found. And even better – it is $17.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter

You know that Laneige lip balm treatment everyone raves about? This tops it. I approve, and my mom does too. The best lip balm I have and it has lasted forever, a little goes a long way.

Nécessaire Body Wash

Nothing makes me feel more clean than this body wash. All natural ingredients, so it is great to make sure you don’t break out anywhere on your body. Also I love that this is fragrance free, because I can apply any scent of perfume after showering without it being too overbearing.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen is so important and something I am realizing as I get older. I wear this every day on my face after I apply my moisturizer, and it goes on great and doesn’t have a sunscreen smell. More of a matte, gel-like consistency.

Milk Lip & Cheek Stick

My favorite cream blush. This comes in a large and mini size, and sticks to my face like no other. Super blendable and since you can use it on your lips & cheeks, it creates a really cohesive look for your makeup.

Kosos Concealer

This concealer comes in so many shades and has great wear throughout the day. My favorite thing about this concealer is the fact that it has hyaluronic acid, so I don’t feel bad about putting this on my acne.

Clean Reserve Rain Fragrance

I am not really one for vanilla fragrances, especially in the summer. I love a clean, fresh and slightly floral scent and this is perfect. It smells fresh out of the bottle and smells more floral as the day goes on. The best of both worlds!

14 Things TikTok Has Taught Me

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For most Millennials and Gen Z, TikTok is the new internet explorer. I’ll admit that I was very skeptical of the app at first as it was primarily targeted towards younger kids. As people over the age of eighteen began to enter the platform, it completely changed the way the app was managed. People were now promoting brands, creating advertisements, sharing information and so much more that honestly, for me, it has become such a learning space. Every day I save a new recipe or a new website to find new clothes. There is seriously so much information on there that has benefited my life. SO if you are over eighteen and still think you’re too mature for TikTok – think again.

1. Drinks to make to not feel hungover

At a young twenty one years old, I get horribly hungover. I will do ANYTHING to not feel the wrath of last nights alcohol consumption. And these drinks are tasty too.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3Mvyn/

2. Where I should actually be applying my makeup

This has been the ultimate makeup game changer I have found on TikTok. My face seems instantly lifted and gives me a very sought after Bella Hadid look.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3Qgk2/

3. How to start incorporating color into my wardrobe

Wearing more color has been a New Years resolution of mine, and I have done a good job so far lol! I recently posted a TikTok about how to style a leather blazer, and was very impressed with the colors I included in my outfits.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw37jRP/

4. How to pose in photos

Don’t act like you haven’t saved these before. I am a top-tier awkward human, and never know how to pose in a photo. Knowing how to pose myself makes me feel more confident which makes the photo come out ten times better.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw37LWr/

5. Where to online shop

Do I need more places to online shop? Not really. But it’s just so therapeutic. Online shopping for me is like checking my social media – I am always look at stores to see their updated arrivals. Some of my favorite places are Revolve, SSENSE and ASOS but if you have any recommendations please let me know.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3GVHb/

6. I don’t have COVID every day, I just didn’t get enough sleep

Every day I swear I wake up with something wrong with me. But then I come across TikTok’s like this and they remind me that I am indeed just a hypochondriac, I do not have COVID, appendicitis, or any other illness every day ❤

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3qn9G/

7. I WILL live in New York someday

I have wanted to live in New York long before I had ever been there. It is the hub of the industries I am interested in working in, fashion and beauty, and a place where I can immerse myself in a fast paced environment with like-minded people.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw345Lj/

8. How to improve my Adobe Photoshop skills

Yes, I was a graphic design student in college, but honestly most of it was self taught. Even with Adobe Illustrator, the application I use to freelance design on, I was self taught. TikTok has such amazing videos on Adobe tips and tricks I had never seen before, and I definitely save every single one.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw397hG/

9. I should pre-make my salad in jars

Now THIS was done by a genius. I would say I tend to eat fairly healthy because of my stomach problems (I am gluten and dairy free). Eating clean can be extremely time consuming, so finding ways to meal prep is always needed.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3fJ3r/

10. How to get boozy on a budget

Everyone knows that Trader Joe’s has cheap wine, but they have such a wide selection it can be hard to determine which ones are actually worth the purchase. This solved all of my problems!

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3GaR9/

11. What jobs are currently accepting applications

This has been so helpful for so many driven individuals. TikTok will pick up the type of content you interact with, and provide similar content on your “for you page”. Since I interact with lots of fashion content, I see lots of fashion job opportunity videos. This keeps me motivated and in the know while job hunting.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZjJw3fxpL/

12. That I will decorate my home like Kendall Jenner’s

The amount of times I have watched Kendall Jenner’s Architectural Digest is… a lot.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3umph/

13. What I should be for Halloween

This is always everyone’s biggest internal debate of the year. Sometimes Pinterest can be outdated when it comes to these things, but TikTok was definitely up to date with the trends this year.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3g1W2/

14. What to play on aux if you don’t know what to play on aux

I have aux anxiety for sure. I love music and know so much about it, but my mind always goes blank when someone tells me to connect to their speaker. These songs are around the same type of music I would normally play, so it’s always good to have some ideas.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJw3PJA7/

My Sephora Must-Haves

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As much as I would love to have a Sephora sponsor me, I am definitely not at their scale – yet – for influencer marketing. Sephora is my ride or die for clean beauty products, as I have very sensitive skin and hair and need to take care of it carefully. I have recently become beauty obsessed to the point where I go to Sephora just as a way to boost my serotonin. But who doesn’t love a good self care shopping spree as self care.

I have tested many products over the past six months that I absolutely love, and you need to try them too. Here are my top eight products you need to add to your Sephora basket ASAP.

ILIA Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

I have only had this product for a month or so but I am already planning on purchasing a second. The shade “Only You” is the perfect pink-nude color that gives you a moisturized pout all day. I do reapply a few times throughout the day, but it does not build to be flaky.

Makeup By Mario Master Pigement Pro Eyeliner Pencil

Rating: 4 out of 5.

This eyeliner pencil is PERFECT if you are trying to achieve a smoked out winged liner look. I am terrified of liquid liner, but this is so buildable and easy to blend. I give this a four out of five because this does smudge off easily, even with setting spray.

Kosas Tinted Face Oil Foundation

Rating: 5 out of 5.

I do not like to wear heavy foundation, so this is the perfect alternative. I purchased this back in March as a lightweight, minimal coverage product to add to my skincare and it does just that. I still use this as an everyday coverage, and even when I am doing a full face. The easiest 5/5 I will give.

Nécessaire Body Wash

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Another easy 5/5. The products this brand puts out are so clean and perfect for my sensitive skin. I have used the eucalyptus scented body wash which I love, but the fragrance free allows you to get out of the shower and lather up any scented lotion or perfume you want without mixing scents.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Rating: 5 out of 5.

This is the ONLY lip balm I can use to cure chapped lips. This is perfect to wear during the day, or can be left on overnight as a treatment. My mom has been trying to cure her chapped lips, even with dermatologist prescribed products. Nothing worked until she used this. I cannot recommend this enough.

Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

This serum I was hesitant about at first. Sunday Riley is such a credited brand, but I did not like how this initially felt on my face. It stung, which prompted me to wash it off. Trying again, I can’t believe I wasted the product like that! I pair this with the U.F.O Acne Oil a few times a week and it clears up my skin better than any other skincare product I have ever used.

Pureology Color Fanatic Multitasking Leave-In Spray

Rating: 5 out of 5.

For about a year I have started to color my hair slightly lighter. This has lead to some hair damage that I have been searching to cure – and THIS IS IT! This product single-handedly changed the texture of my hair. I use this multitasking detangler and heat protectant after I towel dry my hair. My hair has NEVER been so soft or shiny in my life. If there is one thing you take away from this blog post, it is that you need this hair care staple.

Maison Margiela ‘REPLICA’ Springtime In The Park Fragrance

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

This scent may not be everyone’s favorite, but if you like floral scents this is for you. I have received so many compliments on this scent and it last ALL day. This is such a high end fragrance that brings you back to warm weather days.

FALL HAUL

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YAY for fall and DOUBLE YAY for fall fashion. A couple weeks back I posted about what I thought was the backbone of fall fashion for this season. Some of the things I already had, and others were just items I loved. I have done some very unnecessary shopping over the past couple weeks for a collective mini haul to share with y’all. Everything will be linked and I am hoping to style these things soon!

Botanic Butterfly Crewneck

Growth Takes Patience Botanic Butterfly Crewneck, size M

Botanic Butterfly Sweatpants

Botanic Butterfly Sweatpants, Size M

Kosas Revealer Concealer

Kosas Revealer Concealer in the shade 3.5

ASOS Design Knit Sweater Tank

My favorite ASOS sweater vest is sold out, but I linked one to Amazon in many colors.

COLLUSION ASOS Zebra Scarf Top

This one size scarf top is sold out, but I have linked a similar top from Princess Polly.

Barney’s Leather Jacket

Barney’s Leather Jacket, size 6

ZARA Oversized Corduroy Shirt

Purchased in the color Blue, size M

ZARA Split Skinny Hi-Rise Jeans

Purchased in the color Black, size US 6.

Zara Poplin Shirt

Not oversized, purchased in size XL.

Tower 28 ShineOn Lip Jelly

In the shade Clear

Cavendar’s Western Boot

Rustic wash, size 9

Outdoor Voices Rec Kit

If you bundle them together you save! Size small in both.

10 TikTok Fashion Accounts I Will Never Unfollow

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Like many others, I have spent an embarrassing amount of time on TikTok since we began quarantine in March. I love the idea that everyone’s for you page is tailored to their liking as it works similarly to a live Instagram explore page. Very much like my explore page, most of the TikToks that come up are retail related. Whether that be a styling video, a haul or even a small business, fashion TikToks are what I love to consume and what many others love as well. Here are my top twelve fashion-related accounts I think you should follow right now.

@issymayes

for comfy streetwear

@camilacoelho

also has a bomb Revolve collection

@k2sneaks

for the sneaker heads

@alysilverio

for a little bit of everything

@inthesejeans

the queen of minimalistic chic

@wisdm8

insane men’s fashion (Vogue thinks so too)

@lilysteigleman

creator of the infamous One Twelves

@delaneychilds

you know her from YouTube and Instagram

@briknopf

my ultimate style Inso

@revolve

for obvious reasons. And they are always doing giveaways

June Favorites

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Every month I recap things I have been loving from food to podcast. All links will be down below, and similar items will be linked if the original is not available.

01

Aritzia TNA Perfect Slides

They are called the perfect slides for a reason. Shop them here.

02

Drunk Elephant Sunshine Serum

I have a difficult time tanning my face, so this serum adds a little life back into me each morning. Highly recommend mixing this with Drunk Elephant’s Vitamin C Serum.

03

Rectangle Sunglasses

Easy, super wearable shape to wear on your face or head. I have a Quay pair that is no longer sold, but these Free People sunglasses are very comparable.

04

Trader Joe’s Individual Matcha Packets

I don’t really drink coffee due to its high acid content, so tea is a much better option. These matcha packets are from Trader Joe’s but can also be purchased on Amazon.

05

ILYSM Podcast with Kenzie Elizabeth

This podcast has been what I listen to while working every day! Kenzie is amazing, the guest hosts are so inspiring, really good entrepreneur/ motivational/ self love podcast. Listen to it here.

06

Daily Harvest Ice Cream

Being dairy free and gluten free can suck so badly sometimes, but THIS makes it not so bad. I have been purchasing Daily Harvest since January, and they just came out with ice cream and I am obsessed with it. All clean ingredients and taste just like the real stuff.

07

Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lip Gloss

All I have to say is I put this on before I went to bed, woke up in the morning and it was still on. Buy it off here.

08

Claw Clips

These have been a go to because they are so easy on my hair, and don’t pull like a ponytail holder does. Shop here on Amazon.