Fashion Friday: How To Style A Denim Jacket

How To Style Denim Jackets by haleympettit featuring a denim jacket

Today's #fashionfriday post is all about how I would style a denim jacket in the summer. I recently received a hand-me-down Gap denim jacket from my mom, and I was trying to figure out what I could pair it with. Denim jackets tend to be a little stiff, so I think they look best when layered over soft fabrics that flow and aren't form fitted. I'm also a big fan of denim-on-denim, as long as the two shades are noticeably different.

In this set, I've paired a denim jacket with white jeans and a striped top for a casual day look, and with a color-blocked dress for a bright night look. I love how denim jackets automatically add an effortless vibe to any outfit - whether it's jeans and a t-shirt or a pretty shift dress. And if you really want to embrace the effortless look, roll up the sleeves and leave the buttons undone.

I love all things denim, so I'm excited about the new possibilities that a denim jacket creates in my wardrobe!

How do you like to wear your denim jacket?

XOXO

5 Under $5 - Drugstore Makeup

When it comes to makeup, I'm all about affordable drugstore products. I only own a handful of high-end products because I believe - with a little bit of research and trial-and-error - you can find great products at the drugstore.

Each of the products mentioned in this post are under $5, and yet I've found that each is comparable to high end products. 

Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder in 001 Transparent - From what I can tell, this product is one of the most-used setting powders in the beauty industry. Just a light dusting with this powder will set your makeup and take away excess shine. You can build it up to a truly matte finish, but I prefer to keep my skin dewy and apply just a light layer to the places that need it most - the nose, under-eye, and forehead.

NYX Ultra Pearl Mania Loose Pearl Eye Shadow - These loose pigments are amazing quality for the price. Available in many shades (all pearl finishes), these pigments are great basics to have in your collection. They're perfect for dusting all over the lid for a simple and shimmery eye shadow look.

NYC Color Wheel Mosaic Face Powder in 723A Pink Cheek Glow -  This blush is a beautiful pink shade that is perfect for all seasons. Compared to high-blushes, this one might not be as pigmented, but I actually think that's good in a blush. I can lightly brush it on for a subtle tint, or I can build it up for a cheery pop of pink. 

Rimmel London Scandaleyes Eye Shadow Paint in Chestnut Taupe - This eyeshadow is the most beautiful shimmery taupe shade. Called a "paint", this product comes in a tube with a lip-gloss like applicator. You just brush it on the eye and blend, and it sets to a rich, creamy finish. 

Wet n Wild Color Icon Bronzer in 739 Ticket to Brazil - All my fellow pale-skinned ladies listen up: this bronzer is the product you've been waiting for. Unlike other drugstore bronzers that come in one shade that is often too dark, this bronzer is a light shade that's perfect for subtle bronzing on pale skin. Just be aware that it smells like sunscreen due to its SPF of 15. I like the smell, but I know not everyone does.

What are your favorite drugstore products under five dollars? 

XOXO

Nail Polish Organization & Essentials

Today's post is all about nail polish - how I organize my collection, and what I think are the essentials for a pretty at-home manicure. I've never been particularly obsessed with nail polish, but I do like to have painted nails.  

I like to keep everything I need in a shower caddy - it's portable and it keeps everything organized and easy to find. I like being able to take everything with me to the tv room or outside, or wherever I want to paint my nails. Also, I store the caddy in my closet to save space in my dressing table. The only negative is that it collects quite a bit of dust. But luckily, everything is easy to clean with a damp cloth.

My at-home manicure essentials:

1. Nail Polish Remover - an essential! I like to keep this medium-sized bottle in my caddy and refill it from a larger bottle I keep in the bathroom. I use the Target brand Strengthening Nail Polish Remover. Underneath the bottle, I keep a few cotton pads.
2. Nail Files & Cuticle Pushers - pretty self explanatory! 
3. Nail Clippers, Toe Separaters, and Cuticle Creme - again, these tools kind of explain themselves! 
4. Nail Polish - some of my favorite brands are Wet & Wild, Revlon, and Sally Hansen.
5. Manicure Ideas - I've pulled these little booklets out of magazines. They're great for inspiration when you're feeling bored with your polishes. 

And that's it! This organizing solution has worked for me for years. It's convenient to have everything in one place, and to have everything visible. 

How do you store/organize your nail polish collection? What are your manicure essentials?

XOXO