Date Night Ideas You Need To Try

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I love a good date night. It doesn't have to be anything fancy... in fact, I almost prefer they be simple. My dream date is usually a trip to Olive Garden and a movie... judge me if you wish. Sometimes you need to just spice up your regular date night routine, and that can be tricky if you're running slim on ideas. I'm going to make your life a lot easier, and share 3 date night ideas you should try! 

1. A few months ago, I stumbled across a company called Date Night In. They are a monthly subscription service that sends out a box with some essentials for the perfect date night in! If you ask me, this is genius for so many reasons. If you have kids, and finding a sitter is hard, what better way to make a date night a little more special without leaving the house? They include ideas, treats, activities in the box making it perfect for parents, newlyweds, or anyone for that matter! You can purchase a box here.
2. Take a cooking class together! Kyle and I have it on our list to do this soon. You can simply search for cooking classes in your area to find a company that offers them! This is a great date night, because it allows you to spend time together, learn a new skill, and create a finished product that you both worked on together! 
3. Change date night to date day! I know this goes against the whole date {night} idea, but a day date can be such a fun adventure, and the possibilities are endless! Visit a local aquarium together, go on a hike, go out for brunch, etc. Who said dates have to be at night time anyways?! Change it up, and spend the morning or whole day together and go on a new adventure! 

I really hope you try at least one of these out along with me, and enjoy an exciting twist on a date night with your love! 

My Thoughts on the Ipsy Glam Bag

Have you ever subscribed to a beauty box before? About 5 years ago, I was introduced to the beauty box concept, and ever since then, I've been a huge fan! After trying several different subscription services, I thought I would share a few thoughts on one of my favorites! 

I currently am subscribed to Ipsy as well as the Play! by Sephora box. I've been considering cancelling one of them (I have way too much makeup!), but I honestly can't decide which one I like better. If you've been considering the Ipsy Glam Bag, I want to share my thoughts to help you decide whether or not you should join. 

The Ipsy subscription costs $10/month, and I can say without a doubt that every single Ipsy bag I have received in the past 2.5 years has been worth AT LEAST $10. They frequently send full-sized products in their monthly bags, which is really great! You get a small makeup bag each month in addition to about 4 samples! One thing to keep in mind though is that Ipsy might have a waiting list to subscribe. When I signed up a few years ago, I was put on a waiting list, and it took a few months for me to be able to subscribe. 

If  you enjoy trying brands that aren't super common, then I think Ipsy is a good choice. I plan to do a review on the Sephora box as well, but a big difference between the two would be that Sephora fills their boxes with brands most are probably familiar with if you shop at Sephora (think Tarte, Fresh, etc.) 

Ipsy provides a good mix of makeup and skincare. I have also received several makeup brushes that I LOVE from Ipsy. If you love experimenting with new products and brands that you might not have heard of before, I would say the Ipsy Glam Bag is a great choice for only $10! 

If you want to try your first Ipsy bag for free, I have a few free bags I can give away (not sponsored, just love the brand!) If you leave me a comment or shoot me an email (please include name and email) if you want to try!

November Goals

It's been a while since I've been on here, and I must say that I missed it! I took a little break due to work/class/life. For my day job, I am an event coordinator, and our biggest event of the year was in October. We also put an offer on a house in October, so Kyle and I are super excited about that! We've been meeting with our realtor and inspector, and we should be closing at the end of November. All I've been wanting to do is thrift for home goods and plan out our future home!

With all of that being said, I will gladly welcome November. I can't wait spend time with family for Thanksgiving, Black Friday shopping, cold weather, and the leaves changing. I'm also excited for the fresh start that each month brings, so today I thought I would share 3 goals I have for the month of November. Whether they be insignificant or big, I think it helps to write down and share a few goals with someone that you want to accomplish. So here they are - three simple things I want to accomplish in the month of November!

1. Post 3 times a week on Everyday Emily 
2. Read 1 book 
3. Try out a new recipe

There you have it! Are you a monthly goal-setter, or do you wait until January to make your list? 

Fall Booties

Even though temps have been in the 80s/90s this week, I've been on the hunt for a great pair of fall booties. I love to wear ankle boots with jeans and sweaters, but I also want to find a good pair for skirts and dresses!

Today I'm sharing a roundup of some great ankle boots that I have my eye on! You may notice that the majority of these are pretty pricey, but shoes are one area of my wardrobe that I try to invest in quality products. Cheap shoes simply don't last with me, because I have a tendency to wear the same shoes every day until they are worn out.  Do you have a go-to brand for shoes? I'm always looking to invest in shoes that combine comfort and style. Let me know what you think!

Color Treated Hair Care

If there's something you should know about me before reading this post, it's that I'm VERY picky when it comes to my hair. My poor mom had to deal with my tears just about every time I got a 1 inch trim. If that wasn't dramatic enough, let me tell you a little story about the first time I colored my hair. Back when I was in junior high, I decided it would be a good idea to get my dark brown hair highlighted with a box of blonde color that probably cost less than $10 from the drugstore or Walmart. It was one of those kits where you wear that cap with a bunch of tiny holes, pull skinny pieces of hair through the holes, and apply the boxed color to your hair to get a consistent highlight effect. This, my friends, was the last time I colored my hair for a very long time.

At the end of last year, I decided I was a bit bored with my hairstyle and color. I find that when my hair is all one tone, I have little to no texture, volume, or definition. I knew I didn't want to do anything drastic (hello, 7th grade nightmare) or high maintenance, so I decided to overcome my fears and give Balayage a go. If you're unfamiliar with this coloring technique, the stylist essentially paints color randomly on your hair giving it a natural highlight. I have been so pleased with my Balayage, but after several months, I found that my color was getting a bit brassy, and I wasn't doing much to maintain it.

Shampoo | Conditioner

Caring for color treated hair can be a bit more high maintenance, so using a quality shampoo that's formulated for colored hair is beneficial to making your color last. Today I'm sharing my thoughts about the Nexxus Color Assure Vibrancy Retention shampoo and conditioner. I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes, and I have been pleased with how they performed. This shampoo and conditioner duo smells great, and I appreciate the quality ingredients. I'm no hair guru, but I know using products that are both silicone and sulfate free is important, so that was an added bonus! I will say that the conditioner is not as moisturizing as I would prefer, but if you do not have dry hair, this shouldn't be a problem.

Do you have any hair products that you recommend for color treated hair? I would love if you shared them with me!

Love,

Emily

Skillpop Greenville Review

I've never really liked the question, "What are your hobbies?"  It's pretty embarrassing when you're at a job interview and they ask what you like to do for fun, and all you can say is, "I like to shop." Over the past year, I've tried a variety of hobbies from crocheting to watercoloring to brush lettering to blogging.

While I enjoyed brush lettering, I found that it was just more challenging than I had thought it would be, and I didn't really keep up my practicing. Everything I knew, I had taught myself through websites and youtube videos, so when my friend Ashley of Third Floor North Photography told me about a brush lettering basics course in our area, I was excited! I wanted to learn proper techniques from a real teacher and potentially pursue this skill further.

If you've never heard of SkillPop, you should check it out and see if they offer courses in your area. From what I could tell on their website, they have classes in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greenville. SkillPop's concept is that they are essentially pop-up skill classes in your area. The classes are pretty inexpensive, and I love the variety of subjects they offer. In Greenville, they have upcoming classes in screen-printing, coffee tastings, and hand-dyeing textiles! It's so interesting to learn from experts in certain fields, and it is a great way to learn a new skill! 

Our class was a brush lettering basics class taught by Tabathia of The Adorned Fox. She has a huge Instagram following and she does beautiful work. It was great to hear her story of how she got to where she is. We started with practicing basic strokes with Crayola markers. We were provided with alphabet practice sheets, and we took the time to go through those. She also taught us about different styles and brands of markers that she recommends which was really helpful. I've been practicing the skills I learned in the class almost daily, and I highly recommend taking a class through SkillPop. I plan to sign up for another soon!

Grab your best gal pals, and find a class in your area. I promise you won't regret it! 

Love, 

Emily 

Everyday Work Wear

I have to admit that dressing for work can be tricky. In fact, I  usually have a few days each month where I say in frustration, "I just don't want to wear clothes today!" I know...that wouldn't be appropriate. Anyways, I will admit that it's hard to find the perfect combination of professionalism, comfort, and style, but I am always on the hunt to find the perfect melody of these three things in one outfit. 

Today's post is all about finding stylish pieces that you feel comfortable and confident in when standing around that break room water-cooler. Follow these tips from your everyday girl, and you'll be sure to feel as good as you look (even if the only person you talk to that day is your cube mate.) 

1. First, you need to figure out what YOU love to wear. You'll never feel comfortable if you're a pants girl living in dresses. I actually prefer skirts or dresses to pants most days, because I find them to be more flattering on my body type and often times more comfortable. But if you feel best in pants, then wear the pants, my friend. Dress them up with a blousy top and heals or wear a pointy toed flat if you don't do heals (any fellow tall girls out there feel me?) The key is, wear what makes you happy, and get creative to make it work appropriate.
2. If you have a brand you know you love, make it your go-to for all things work wear. You know those people who buy the same shirt in 3 colors, because they love it so much? I totally support that, because you can take the same piece and style it so many different ways. I love the brand Crown and Ivy from Belk, and I know that if I buy pieces for my work wardrobe from them, I will wear them on a regular basis and feel confident in my clothes. I know that skirts from Loft look best on my body type, so I frequently purchase skirts from their line. Find what works for you, and stick with it.
3.  Finally, ditch the clothes in your wardrobe that are cluttering your space and making it more difficult to build work outfits you love. If you're anything like me, you might be a bit of a clothes hoarder. I always tell myself I'll wear that shirt I haven't worn in a year...eventually. But we have to be honest with ourselves, and face it, I have no intention to actually wear that shirt. When we have items in our closet that we don't like or wear, it actually makes it more difficult to find pieces you have and love. Keeping a clean, clutter free closet will make it so much easier to create a look and go when you're running late and need to be at the office in 5. 

 

So there you have it - my 3 simple tips to help you build a work wardrobe you actually want to wear! I love to buy my work clothes from Loft and Crown and Ivy. Let me know - what is your saving grace on those work mornings when you just don't want to wear clothes? 

Love, 

Emily

Drugstore Favorites - July

How in the world is July already over? Does anyone else feel like this month flew by? I really don't know where the time has gone, but to celebrate transitioning to a new month, I am bringing you a few of my most favorite drugstore products that I have been loving this month. 

While I enjoy high-end beauty products, my budget doesn't always allow it. Over the years, I have found that the drugstore has some really great products that perform just as well at a much lower price. It's also really important to do a little research before you go to purchase. Reading product reviews on the brand and products themselves can be a great way to narrow down what shades and formulas will look best with your skin tone and type. 

I've just recently discovered a love for highlighting. I've found that it really makes my skin glow and can look quite natural if applied with a light hand and the right brush. One of my favorite drugstore brands is Wet n Wild, and their MegaGlow Highlighter did not let me down. This is the shade precious petals, and it has a rose gold tone that would look great on dark or lighter skin tones. At just $4.99, you have to check it out! 

Now y'all this next blush is good... really good. I consider Milani to be a fancier brand at the drugstore. They have pretty nice packaging, and the quality of this blush is so nice. I have the shade Romantic Rose, and these are priced at just $6.99. Mauve blushes are really flattering on my fair skin, but I think it would look great on any skin tone. If you're looking for a new blush to add to your collection, definitely check this one out!

A few weeks ago I went on a trip to New York City with my mother-in-law and sister-in-law. While we were there, my SIL and I made the trek to the E.L.F. cosmetics store. If you're unfamiliar with E.L.F., they sell a wide variety of cosmetics and skin care at super affordable prices. While we were there, I picked up the Beautifully Bare Sheet Tint Finishing Powder in the shade fair/light, and I must say that I am really impressed. I am always on the hunt for something to replace my MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural, and so far, I really don't have any complaints! This is a great drugstore powder. 

Well, there you have it... three great drugstore face products under $7.00. You can thank me later! Let me know in the comments if you have or are planning to try any of these products this month. 

Love, 

Emily 

Shop Small Series No. 2

I have a thing for word art. In fact, I have it all over our small studio apartment. I just find so much beauty in having meaningful phrases or quotes framed on my walls. There are so many companies that have pieces you can purchase, but I find that a lot of word art starts to look the same after a while. For part 2 of this Shop Small Series, I am sharing my favorite shop that offers beautiful and unique prints for your home, office, or as gifts!

I first heard about Winsome Easel about a year ago at a local handmade market in Greenville, SC. The creator of Winsom Easel, Kristen Hornstein had a little booth set up with several pieces of her gorgeous word art and artwork on display. I had such a hard time picking just one piece to purchase, but I could not be more please with what I chose. Her Etsy shop description is, "Paper stories told with love by Kristin Hornstein," and I'm pretty that could not be more on point. It truly is more than just decor for your home. The pieces tell stories with such beauty and detail.

If you've never looked at Kristen's shop, you need to! I've since ordered several other pieces as gifts for friends and family, and I could not be more pleased with her prints. The quality is fantastic, and each image is so delicate and unique. I framed mine in a mint blue frame with rustic details, and I love the southern chic look.



So whether you're looking for some new decor or just a meaningful gift for a friend, check out Winsome Easel and share her "paper stories" with your loved ones! Oh and remember... shop small and shop local!

Love,

Emily

Ruffle Layered Dress

If you frequently wake up in the morning not knowing what to wear, then you know the importance of having staples that you can throw on without much thought. I don't know about you, but I have my go-to brands that never let me down. For me, that brand is Crown and Ivy, and it can be found at Belk. I pretty much can't leave the Crown and Ivy section without finding at least five items that I want to buy.

Crown and Ivy initially caught my eye several years ago because of their fun prints that have a Lilly Pulitzer vibe. Ever since then, I've purchased many additions to my wardrobe from their line, and they're by far my most favorite pieces to wear. Over the past year, I've tried to focus on quality over quantity with my wardrobe, and I definitely think their clothes are worth the price.
The secret to shopping Crown and Ivy is knowing that you really have to try on the clothes, as their sizes aren't very consistent. I have items ranging from XS-M, though my true size is a medium. I highly recommend trying on to find the best fit. One other note is to wait for a sale since the items can get pretty pricey without discounts. Belk frequently has 50% off on this brand, and they also have a pretty great clearance section.

Dress - Crown and Ivy | Shoes - Madden Girl | Bracelets - Alex and Ani  

My most recent find was this fun tiered chambray dress. I love the cold shoulder details, and the ruffles give it a really feminine look. I paired it with my pom-pom sandals from Madden Girl and a few fun accessories. It's so comfortable and light to wear. This look would be perfect for the 4th of July.

Dress - Crown and Ivy | Shoes - Madden Girl | Bracelets - Alex and Ani 

If you haven't checked out Crown and Ivy, I highly recommend their clothes for both the quality and style. Check them out, and let me know what you think.

Love,

Emily

5 Podcasts You Need to Check Out

Over the past year I fell in love with listening to podcasts. While they've just become popular in recent years, I must admit I was a little late to the podcast scene, simply because I didn't really understand what they were. My job that I was previously working required several mindless tasks, so we were allowed to have headphones while we worked. I've never been a huge fan of listening to music anywhere other than the car, so I decided to try listening to podcasts while I worked. For me, they're the most interesting time passer.

If you're unfamiliar with podcasts, they are essentially a form of audio that allows you to get a significant amount of information on just about any topic. Think of it basically as listening to a show on the radio... and if that doesn't make sense, then just try listening to one on your next commute! I know it's very common for people to set up a podcast for a long commute or while cleaning the house! For me, I only really listen to them while I work. Find what works for you, and I promise you'll love it.

Like I said before, the topics that podcasts cover are endless. In addition, there are a variety of places you can listen to them. I mainly listen on Google Play or through the podcast of choice's website, but I know iTunes and a variety of other podcast apps can be used as well. Something to keep in mind is that they will use your data unless you download them while on wifi (so unless you've got unlimited data, be sure to download at home!)

Now that I've told you what podcasts are and when and how to listen, I'm going to share with you my 5 favorites that I can't stop talking about. My favorite genre is true crime podcasts, but I threw in a few others if that's not your thing. I've linked up each podcast as well, so feel free to click the links to get you to the site where you can listen. Now let's get to it!

1. Serial Season One - Probably one of the most well-known podcasts, this week-by-week show covered the story of the conviction of Adnan Syed in the murder of Hae Min Lee. This was one of the most interesting cases I had ever heard and really peaked my interest into true crime. If I could only recommend one podcast to someone, this would be it. But be warned... once you start, you won't want to stop! When you're finished, listen to Undisclosed Season One. This podcast takes a more in depth look into the case, and it's absolutely fascinating! 
2. Up and Vanished - Another true crime podcast, Up and Vanished takes a look into the missing persons case of Tara Grinstead. The twists and turns of this podcasts are so thrilling, you have to check it out... no spoilers here! 
3. Stuff You Should Know - This podcast covers just about any topic, and is narrated by two men with dry, funny senses of humor. If you're looking for something to talk about at your next dinner party, listen to an episode of this, and you'll be sure to be a wealth of knowledge on any topic! 
4. This American Life - This podcast as been around for a long time, and there's definitely a reason why. Each episode typically takes a look at several different stories that somehow relate to the main topic that they've chosen. This is by far the hardest to explain (even they have a hard time), but give it a few listens, and I'm sure you'll be hooked! 
5. The Vanished Podcast -  The Vanished Podcast has a great mission - bringing attention to missing persons cases that haven't been largely covered by the media. The narrator shares the stories, interviews family members of missing persons, and encourages her listeners to share any knowledge they have into the case. Another interesting true crime podcast you can't miss! 

So there you have it - my top 5 podcasts I completely binge on! I hope you check some of them out, and let me know what you think in the comments below. 

Love, 

Emily

Candlefish Experience Review

I really love giving gifts, but I especially enjoy the idea of gifting experiences. I really try to be thoughtful with my giving, and creating memories with the person you are gifting is invaluable. When Mother's Day rolled around this year, I decided to look into gifting my mom a candle making class. She really loves candles, and she enjoys spending time with me, so I decided it was the perfect gift! I Googled candle making classes in Charleston, SC, and found a company called Candlefish. 

Candlefish has a variety workshops in both Atlanta and Charleston. The company has a really cool history and a great mission. At the beginning of our candle workshop, we learned that they employ people in their factories that are looking for a second chance. They provide them with the work opportunity, and the employees have something they can physically hold (the candle) that shows them what they've accomplished. 

Our experience at Candlesfish was great. We learned so much about the company, their different products, and everything that goes in to creating a quality and delicious smelling candle. Our Chandler walked us through the entire process and taught us about selecting scents, the different notes in the candle scent, and some very helpful tips on candle care. 

The class costs around $50, and that includes two 9oz candles. Definitely keep in mind that they may only allow you to select one scent, meaning you will go home with two candles that smell the same, unless someone else in the workshop is willing to trade you.  

Our class had 7 people in it total. We all gathered around a large table where our chandler had all of the necessary tools set out for us. Once we got our scent education, we were able to walk around the candle "library" and smell different candles. They encourage you not to read what scents are in the candle so that it does not deter you from smelling it if it has a note that you typically don't prefer. You might be surprised that you like that scent when combined with something else. The scents are numbered, and once you choose, your chandler gets the bottle for you. After that, we began the candle making and were provided with the opportunity to look around their really unique shop. Something else to keep in mind is that your candles have to sit overnight. You do have to go back to the store the next day to pick it up. They also have the option of shipping it to you if you will be leaving the area.

Overall, we were really pleased with our experience. If you live in or are visiting the Atlanta or Charleston area and are looking for a great gift idea or something to do, I would highly recommend checking them out. 

Love, 

Emily 

Shop Small Series

Hello lovelies! Today I'm starting my "Shop Small Series."  I love the idea of supporting shops featuring items created by friends or locals in the community. While there is definitely a place for mass retailers, I love the care and attention given to products sold by small shops.

The shop I will be featuring today is Lilly Noelle jewelry. I've known about Lilly Noelle for years now. My aunt is a friend of the owner, Heidi, and she used to gift me pieces for my birthday. Since then, I've always loved browsing Heidi's fun website.

One of my favorite things Lilly Noelle does is the earring of the month club. This is basically a gorgeous earring subscription, and it makes a great gift for anyone! I've gifted it to both my mom and my mother-in-law, and they loved it! Each month you will get a pair of earrings. It's like the gift that keeps on giving!

For my birthday this past year, my Mom gave me one of Lilly Noelle's leather cuffs for my birthday, and I've worn it SO many times since I've gotten it. All of Heidi's items are such high quality, and you definitely are getting your money's worth. This genuine leather cuff has just the right amount of modern with the mixed prints and textures. I also have found that it is so versatile and can really add a unique touch to an outfit.

Overall, I highly recommend Lilly Noelle, and I hope you check out her shop for great gift ideas or just a little bling for yourself!

Love, Emily

5 Steps to the Perfect Messy Bun

Today we are talking about one of my favorite hair looks, the messy bun. If messy buns are wrong, I don't want to be right. Whoever invented this lazy hairstyle was genius, because I'm pretty sure I'd never survive a late morning without this go-to hairstyle.

Messy buns often get a bad reputation for being a lazy hairstyle that takes no effort and looks sloppy, but I think mastering the messy bun is an art. Just about every day after 6pm, I put my hair up. I really don't like to have my hair in my face, and I find that the bun does does the trick. There are also days when I choose to wear my hair up in a bun as my style for that day, and believe it or not, I get the most complements when I wear my hair in a messy bun. I'm not sure what that has to say about my regular hair-do, but I'll take it.

Today I'm sharing 5 simple steps I take to get a great hairstyle with little time and effort.

1. The first thing I do is spray my hair with dry shampoo and sometimes a little hairspray. I have fine hair, so this gives my locks a little texture and some volume to make sure that my bun has some volume as well. 
2. The type of elastic you use is also very important. I find that the thin black hair ties like these are the best for messy buns. They're much more flexible than the thicker bands. 
3. Next, you want to make sure you place the bun as far back as you can while remaining on top of your head. That might sound a little confusing, but it is important that it not be too high or too low. 
4. Make sure not to get your bun too tight. Unless you're going for a ballerina look, I would suggest only wrapping the hair band 2 or 3 times. It's better to leave it loose than have it too tight. We are going for an easy and effortless look, so once you've got the band tied, use your fingers to loosen up the bun without pulling out too many hairs from the bun. Leave some pieces around your face to soften up the look. 
5. Finally, wear a pair of bold earrings like these. I always wear earrings when my hair is up, because I find that it adds a bit of style and dresses up my look. It also seems to soften my face and draws attention to something other than my ears. Whatever you do, don't skips this step! 

Ultimately, mastering the messy bun is going to take some work, but with a little practice, I'm confident you'll be rocking this style and getting complements left and right. If you'd like to see a tutorial for this look, let me know in the comments!

Love, Emily 

3 Lip Colors You NEED to try!

Nothing makes me feel quite so put together as a good lipstick. I feel as if any outfit can appear more polished just by applying the perfect lip shade.

Finding even just a few go-to lip colors can be so difficult, so I've done the work for you. I of course recommend going to your local Ulta, Sephora, or department store to try on different shades to see what works best with your skin tone. For me, I know that mauves and berries are most flattering, but you may not have fair skin and brown hair, so embrace a little trial and error, my friend.

The 3 lipsticks that I am sharing with you today are ones that I think will be flattering on most skin tones. I selected 3 different shades at 3 different price points. Spoiler alert, my favorite one is only $3.99! Let's dig in, shall we?

First, we have the Too Faced Melted Matte Lipstick in the shade Queen B. This is my favorite liquid lipstick I've tried, and the shade is the most unique shade that I have. I love this product for a couple of reasons: 1. It doesn't make my lips as dry as the Sahara like most liquid lipsticks. 2. The color is this perfect mauve/muted lilac shade. If you look at it on Sephora's website, it definitely shows more red/brown tones, but I will say in person, it's a lilac mauve. With this product pricing at $22, I do think the quality of the formula and the unique shade is definitely worth the spend.

Next we have Loreal's Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Pink Lipcolour in the shade Eva's Pink.  This is a gorgeous matte vibrant pink that isn't too crazy for every day. I will say the scent resembles that of a baby doll's head, so for sure keep that in mind. But it doesn't bother me, and the shade is so flattering on my skin tone. I find that brighter pinks can be tricky with darker hair, but I think this is very flattering. Again, this is a matte finish, but it is very comfortable on the lips. This retails at Ulta for just $9.99, though I'm sure you could get a great deal at the drugstore.

Now, I'm not going to lie. I saved the best for last. Essence Matt Matt Matt lipstick is the absolute perfect "My lips but better" shade and it costs $3.99. At that price, everyone needs this lipstick. The finish is supposedly matte, but I would say it's more of a satin matte. This shade is so flattering. It has mauve tones, but it is the kind of lipstick where you just feel pulled together without screaming "I have lipstick on!"

I hope these tips help you and inspire you to try out some new lipsticks and add a little fancy to your day!

Love, Emily

Wednesday Wishes No. 1

I wouldn't say I've always been a huge fan of Wednesdays, but there's something about this weekly halfway point that brings me so much hope. With only a few work days left on the horizon before the weekend, I'm all sorts of happy. Join me each Wednesday on Everyday Emily for a list of all the things I'm wishing for that week.

With summer on the horizon, I'm feeling the need to spruce up my wardrobe a bit. I've really been looking to add some quality tops that are versatile and effortless. I've had my eye on this shirt for a while now. I absolutely love the blush shade and ruffles for an extra girly look, but I also love that it works for both a business casual work look or would pair great with shorts and a cute pair of sandals. 

Speaking of blush, I'm 99% sure I need this bag. I mean it's a gorgeous color, it has tassels, and it's under $60. That's practically perfection in my book. 

Lastly, I am looking to add a few new accessories to my wardrobe, and I'm dreaming of everything that Baublebar has to offer. My love for pom pom accessories is real, and these earrings are no exception. There are so many outfits I could combine with them, as there are several different colors in the tassels and poms. And these Crispin Drops are just the cutest. I've always favored bold accessories with a simple wardrobe, so these earrings would be great to pair with a basic tee and some jean shorts. 

Now that I've shared a few of my wishes this week, I'd love to hear what you're loving!

Love, Emily 

Spring Style

I love dressing up. Don't get me wrong, I also love jeans (let's be real...pajamas too.) But there's something about wearing a dress and some bolder lipstick that just makes me feel great.

This past Sunday was Easter Sunday, and I just love Easter. Most importantly, Easter is a day of celebration of my Savior who conquered death and saved my soul. That alone is the reason why I love Easter, but I'm not going to lie - I like the holiday celebrations that come with it - Starburst jelly beans, anyone? We took Easter festivities pretty seriously in my house. I remember as a kid, my sister and I would wake up and find our Easter basket in the house that our parents hid. And every year, it had that little egg shaped gum in the carton. For as long as I can remember, I got a new Easter outfit to wear on that special Sunday as well, and I'm not at all opposed to continuing those traditions!

This year, my mom sent me a check with a little note to buy myself a new Easter outfit. She's the sweetest! I know, I'm 23-years-old and my mom still sends me treats on holidays... it's kind of the best thing ever.

 For my outfit this year, I took a new approach. I just couldn't find a dress that I loved and would wear more than 3 times this spring/summer. While I was browsing at TJ Maxx with my sister-in-law, I found the cutest white bell sleeve top. I then realized I had a skirt already in my closet that I could wear with it and a chunky necklace to make it extra springy. I finished the look with some nude wedge sandals I already had and created a great spring Sunday outfit and only had to purchase one item.

All of this to say, be creative! If you feel like your wardrobe needs some help, go find a few new pieces and combine them with some of the pieces already in your closet to optimize your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

This is what Ollie's face looked like when he realized the Easter Bunny didn't bring him a basket. 

Love,

Emily

Faves under Fifty

Happy Friday! Today I did a roundup of five clothing and beauty products I've had my eye on this week. The best part - everything is under $50!

I'd love to know if you've tried any of these items and what you think about them!