Mani Monday: Going Nude

I sadly relapsed to my nail- and cuticle-biting ways at the beginning of the month so now I’m trying to let them grow out without drawing too much attention to my hands. Whenever I wear polish I am so much better about not picking my nails so the next few weeks will be a bit of a recovery period for me. As bright and fun as nail art can be, this month I’ve been drawn towards clean and neutral polishes that are the perfect “completer piece” for my nails. I’m on the hunt for the perfect nude, one that isn’t too pink, applies easily, and offers full coverage with two coats. 

Here’s the thing - I am trying to find that perfect neutral with peach undertones, instead of the common white base, as it is much more flattering with my skin tone. Essie’s Marshmellow and Mademoiselle have been recommended over and over again, but they are definitely too "milky" for my taste. I’m also not the biggest fan of that brand as I find the polishes too thin and prone to chipping. 

Right now I’m wearing OPI’s Dulce de Leche and I’m pleased but not in love. The peachiness is on point and coverage is pretty good (three coats would have been better though as it is a little streaky). Not my favourite but a solid 8/10 for a nude polish. What do you think?

I find that nude polishes are fresh and always add a dose of sophistication that show that you care about the little details, even when they’re not in your face. This type of manicure is also a great way to elongate your fingers if you’re self-conscious about having little stubbies, plus it is considerably easier to maintain. 

For me, the hunt continues for the perfect nude polish as this one by OPI falls just short. Any suggestions?

Linking up with Well Shut The Front Door and At the Pink of Perfection.

Follow me on Bloglovin / Email / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest   

September Links I Love

The transition of the seasons, the beginning of some big changes in my life… September has been quite a month! Lately I’ve been enjoying the morning sunshine from outside the cubicle walls, focusing on my writing, being an awesome wife and coming up with tasty slow cooker meals, trip planning for Central America, going on romantic anniversary dates to the casino, loving fall TV, and playing tennis! I’ve been doing a ton of reading too - here are my favourite links of the month.

Travel Fashion Girl shares her checklist of 10 hostel travel essentials. The only item I’m missing is ear plugs - gotta put those on the list! 

Lauren offers some advice for travellers thinking about house-sitting, an option we're considering while we’re abroad. I'd love to read about more experiences, anyone have a story to share?

Jumpsuits are one of those things that never ever look right on me. The torso is always too short, my crotch looks like it’s hiked up to my bellybutton, and the length always seems to hit that perfectly awkward spot above my ankles which makes me look like I’m rocking high water pants à la Steve Urkel... 

Le sigh. I just have to admire Adriana’s dressy tux-inspired jumpsuit and Julia’s beautiful royal blue piece from afar. 

Looking to start up your own business? Advice from Sir Richard Branson, the billionaire entrepreneur behind the Virgin empire >> “Screw it, just get on and do it!” So eloquent. 

Lately I feel like I've been struggling with how to find my blogging voice. The Indie Chicks share 3 ways to help.

Alison is right on the money with her predictions for the next big fall trend and what she says should be in your closet. 

Let’s end this post with something funny yet thought-provoking - 5 career lessons learned from Heisenberg. (Yes, another Breaking Bad reference.) The series finale is tonight - are you ready? I have a feeling that Jesse is going to be alright and walk away from it all. Walter White, though? I’m not so sure about that… 

Follow me on Bloglovin / Email / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest

Emmys 2013 Best and Worst Dressed

Starting off with Allison Williams in a simple and rather boring Ralph Lauren dress.  Pretty, yes, but thumbs down for being too middle-of-the-road.

Carrie Underwood (why was she there?) in a purple Romona Keveza ball gown. I love the shape of this dress, in fact it's very similar to what I chose for my bridesmaids. But it's just that... bridal... therefore naturally more conservative and a bit more "poof" than it needed to be for the Emmys. I would have liked if Carrie had chosen something more streamlined and fashion-forward for once. And something not in taffeta. Never in taffeta.

Julie Bowen in pale pink Zac Posen and lots of ruffles. I like the detailing on the bodice but those little sleeves have got to go!

A unique choice by Connie Britton wearing a gold embroidered Naeem Khan blue strapless dress. I think this went very nicely with her complexion and showed off her long lines.

Elisabeth Moss wearing a pretty black and white embellished dress from Andrew Gn, but nothing that knocks it out of the ballpark.