August 2017 – user's Blog!

August 25, 2017

5 Makeup Must-Haves That Pull Double Duty

It’s easy to indulge yourself in the name of beauty. After all, a new lipstick or a fun eye shadow doesn’t make that big of a dent in the budget, right? But all of those little cosmetic splurges add up. And despite what many beauty blogs tell you, you don’t need 10,000 makeup products to look great. Thanks to multipurpose products, you can get by with a minimal makeup load.

Lip Balm

Come winter, you swear by the stuff to keep your lips smooth. But a high-quality lip balm can be used in a variety of ways. Rub it into your cuticles to keep your nails looking polished, or use it on your hair to keep flyaways at bay. You can also mix your balm with a little eye shadow for a glossier look.

Stick to a cult classic with Kiehl’s famous Lip Balm #1.

Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1
from Neiman Marcus

Mascara

A great mascara will keep your lashes looking longer and fuller, but you can also use it as an eyeliner. Here’s how: Bring the wand up to your lash line, making sure to get the brush as close to the eyelid as possible. Instead of sweeping upward, wiggle it back and forth on the bottom lash line.

Try Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Mascara for an intense look.

Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Mascara
from Target

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Cream Blush

A pretty cream blush is amazing for giving you a pretty, flushed glow. You can also use the product for a makeshift eye shadow, or mix it with a balm for a DIY lip color. Use your middle finger to lightly tap the cream onto your lips and lids.

Try e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush for a natural-looking effect

e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush
from Ulta Beauty

BB Cream

You’ve probably heard of BB cream, but what is it? It’s a beauty and blemish cream that protects, corrects and moisturizes. Instead of splurging on moisturizers, concealers and foundations, you can get it all from this one product. Many BB creams even offer sunscreen, so you can skip that step too.

For an amazing BB cream, try Bobbi Brown BB Cream.

Bobbi Brown BB Cream
from Sephora

Multiple Stick

A good multiple stick is pretty much the only thing you need to pack for a long weekend away. We love ones that are bronzy and creamy. You can blend it with your body lotion for a shimmering body cream. You can mix it with your moisturizer for a little glow to add to your cheeks, lids and the center of your lips. Or you can use it to contour your face.

For a reliable multiple stick, try NARS The Multiple Stick.

NARS The Multiple Stick
from Sephora

August 19, 2017

Which Area Rug Is Right for Your Space?

Rugs do a lot for a room. They can brighten the mood, set the vibe and keep your feet warm on tile or wood floors. Rugs are an easy way to make an artistic statement and, if used correctly, they can add balance to a space. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a new rug.

Research Your Options

Rugs are no longer limited to Persian or European styles. You can go wild: jutes and sisals, edgy geometrics, novelty rugs, modern and contemporary alternatives. The list goes on and on. Before you commit to a style, educate yourself on what’s available and what overall vibe you want to go for in your home.

The natural colors in this rug will bring out the colors in your furniture and decor.

Safavieh Handmade Wool Rug
from Overstock

Size Matters

Tossing a tiny rug in a large space is a common interior-design faux pas. Decorators refer to this as the postage-stamp size. The measurements you want for area rugs are 6 feet by 9 feet, 8 feet by 10 feet or 9 feet by 12 feet. Center the rug in your room so the distance between the rug and the wall is the same on all four sides. If you’re unsure of the proper size for your room, err on the larger side. It’s better to go too big than too small.

You can also play around with shapes, such as this circular silver option.

Safavieh Adirondack Silver Rug
from Overstock

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Consider Your Colors

Is your room neutral, with light-toned walls and minimal decor? You may wish to try a patterned rug as a way to bring color into the space. On the flip side, solid- or neutral-colored rugs can tone down a busier room. Even if you opt to go extra on the color, make sure the colors aren’t too complicated—otherwise you’ll wind up with a complicated and visually cluttered space.

Spend time imagining different options that will work with your furniture colors. A monochromatic rug like this one looks great with patterned furniture, especially when matched to the furniture’s secondary color.

Moroccan Wool Flat Weave
from ABC Carpet & Home

Texture

Rugs are a fun way to bring new textures into a room. Silk rugs, although pricey and challenging to clean, are elegant and beautiful. If you opt for natural materials, such as sisal and jute, you can add warmth to a space.

This handwoven neutral-toned area rug plays with texture in a fun way.

Pero Flat Weave Cotton
from ABC Carpet & Home

Lifestyle and Upkeep

Do you have pets or children? You may wish to go for a patterned rug instead of a white rug, because patterned rugs hide stains better. High-pile or shag rugs also do not fit this type of lifestyle. Switch to a flat-weave or extremely low-pile rug to reduce the look of wear.

How much work are you willing to put into keeping your rug in great shape? Most require regular vacuuming. High-pile rugs are more challenging to clean; you’ll have to send them out or have them professionally cleaned in your home. As a general rule, they should be cleaned once a year. Low-pile and flat-weave rugs are easier to spot clean, and require twice-yearly old-fashioned rug beating to remove accumulated dust.

August 16, 2017

What’s Your True Shoe Personality?

Shop the Results:

8 Versatile Button-Up Shirts Every Man’s Closet Needs

When it comes to button-up shirts, there are a few staples every man should incorporate into his wardrobe. Each can be styled multiple ways to take you from the office to a night out with friends. I’ve rounded up my picks here and tried to keep them affordable if you’re in need of most or all of them. Either way, you’ll earn Cash Back at Ebates while shopping for all the best products, so your bank account will thank you.

Get With the Gingham

If you don’t have a gingham shirt in your closet, now’s the time to fix that. This classic pattern is casual enough for a weekend wear but sophisticated enough for a date night. Pair it with chinos or jeans if you’re heading to the office. If you’re really trying to dress it up, a blazer and a solid tie will go a long way.

Brooks Brothers Gingham Dress Shirt
from Lord & Taylor

Choose Check

Check button-up shirts are a staple every man should have in his arsenal. They’re available in nearly every color these days, so you should have several in your wardrobe to rotate through. (I wear one about twice a week.) Roll up your sleeves and tuck it in at the office or leave it untucked if you’re running errands around town. You’ll look good either way.

Eagle Men’s Checked Dress Shirt
from Bon-Ton

Say Yes to Stripes

Stripes do a lot for your look, including making you look slimmer (if the stripes are vertical). I prefer shirts with thin stripes, because they’re easier to dress up or down. Shirts with larger stripes often feel too casual, but a subtle, fine stripe can add a little punch to your ensemble without stealing the show.

Tailored Collection Cotton Dobby Stripe Shirt
from Tommy Hilfiger

Stick With Solids

When in doubt, stick with a solid-color or white button-down shirt. White shirts are a little harder to incorporate into a casual outfit, but it’s much easier if you find one with texture. Not sure where to start or what color to pick? Every guy needs a blue oxford button-up. In fact, you should probably have a few shades of blue at the ready.

Men’s Solid No-Iron Supima Oxford
from Land’s End

Love the Linen

You don’t have to reserve your linen for hot summer days. A solid linen shirt can transform your look, especially as fall approaches. This one, from American Rag, would go nicely with some Red Wing boots and dark jeans. It’d look just as nice with tailored trousers and brogues.

American Rag Men’s Linen Shirt
from Macy’s

Pick a New Type of Plaid

Plaid is everywhere, so you need a statement piece like this one from Express to stand out. Any of the three colorways will make an impact, but the purple is my pick. It’s a nice shirt that’s safe enough for the boardroom if it’s accompanied by cap-toe shoes (with a belt to match) and a subdued tie.

Fitted Plaid Dress Shirt
from Express

Play With Paisley

Think paisley is hard to pull off? It can be depending on the color and how large the print is, but this option from Croft & Barrow is subtle and tasteful. Save this shirt for special occasions, and try to work it into your office attire. It’s sure to make an impression either way.

Croft & Barrow Easy-Care True Comfort Regular-Fit Dress Shirt
from Kohl’s

Go Geometric

Checks, stripes and solids are classics, but it’s 2017, so feel free to experiment with new patterns. I found this geometric button-up shirt, and I had to pick it up. It could change the entire look of your favorite suit if you style it correctly. A solid tie is key here to avoid making your look too busy.

Ike Behar Geometric Regular-Fit Dress Shirt
from Saks Fifth Avenue

August 8, 2017

Find the Perfect Fit: Plus-Size Jeans for Your Body Type

Those in the plus-size category know how challenging it can be to find the perfect pair of jeans. Thankfully, the fashion industry has evolved to include plenty of options perfectly tailored to fit curvier frames. These jeans are specifically designed to flatter your best assets without being uncomfortable, too baggy or otherwise ill-fitting. Below, we break down five body types and the best fits for each.

Body Type: Hourglass

You Have: A defined waistline and a full bust and hipline

Balance your hipline by choosing pants with a flared or wide leg. Try these jeans by NYDJ. The crisscross panel flattens and lifts an ample behind. The flare is flattering for a fuller leg.

Barbara Boot-Cut Jeans
from NYDJ

Body Type: Inverted pyramid

You Have: Broad shoulders, a full bust and slender hips, butt and legs

This body type looks best in a style that shows off slim legs. Wear a looser silhouette up top and keep the look straight and narrow for your lower half. A great pick is a pair of skinny jeans with a bit of stretch for extra comfort.

Levi’s 314 Shaping Straight Jeans
from Levi’s

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Body Type: Triangle

You Have: A smaller upper body (slim shoulders and arms), a defined waistline and pronounced hips

Your legs are one of your best assets, and a great pair of jeans will help show them off. Look for a trouser style (wider legs) or a pair with a slight flare to help balance out your proportions. You can also experiment with cropped or frayed styles that look smart paired with flirty heels.

Mother Denim Insider Crop Fray
from Singer22

Body Type: Pear

You Have: Narrow shoulders, curvy hips and thighs, and an ample behind

Pear is one of the most common body types for plus-size women. Play up your assets by flaunting them in a snug-fitting style. Look for a slim fit with a bit of stretch, which will maximize your shape. Accessorize with a pair of heels to elongate your legs.

Curvy Ridley Skinny Jeans
from ASOS

Body Type: Diamond

You Have: A waistline fuller than your hips and bust, and perfectly proportionate lower legs, chest and face

People with a diamond body type look amazing in flat-front styles. Show off your gams in straight or boot-cut styles. You’re also one of the only plus-size body types who look perfect in a pair of capris, like this pair of boyfriend-style jeans.

Levi’s Boyfriend Jeans
from Levi’s

August 2, 2017

5 Everyday Items That Will Change Your Camping Game Forever

Camping gear can be expensive, especially if you’re just starting out. Over the years, I’ve found the best way to venture into the great outdoors is with affordable multi-use tools that can be used both at the campsite and in everyday situations. There are plenty of specialty gadgets out there that will drain your bank account, but these tried-and-true picks will help you tackle any job — whether at work or at play — without wrecking your finances. On top of that, you’ll keep even more of your hard-earned money where it belongs by earning Cash Back at Ebates while shopping for all the best products.

Tout the Tool for Every Situation

When it comes to your everyday carry, a multi-tool is both a must and a piece of gear you probably already have on hand. It’s an essential piece of camping equipment — the first thing I pack before a trip. If you don’t have a proper multi-tool, the Leatherman Wave is my all-time favorite for its durability and the countless jobs I’ve tackled with it. Leatherman is a legendary brand, and the Wave has never let me down. Review your tool’s user manual and get familiar with its many features before your next big adventure. There are plenty of tutorials on YouTube for most tools as well.

Leatherman Wave Multi-Tool
from Campmor

Wear a Watch That Works for You

Never venture out the door — especially into the great outdoors — without a trusty timepiece on your wrist. So many people rely on their cell phones for everything these days, but there’s a reason watches have been around for centuries. This one, from Casio, is powered by light, has directional and sunrise and sunset data, can give altitude readings and much more. This is the priciest item on my list, but it’s well worth the investment.

Casio Pro Trek Tough Solar Triple Sensor Men’s Aviator-style Watch
from JC Penney

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Pack the Paracord

Paracord is the new duct tape. At least that’s how I see it. This affordable rope is incredibly strong and versatile, which makes it a top pick for the campsite and as an everyday-carry item. I keep a few hundred feet in my backpack for peace of mind, and I’ve had to rely on that little bundle of cord quite a few times over the years. Whether you’re rigging up a clothesline or fixing a broken tent line, you’ll be glad you spent a little dough on this proven pick.

Nylon Paracord
from Overstock

Put Your Water Bottle to Work

I drink out of a Nalgene bottle almost every day at work, and I doubt that will ever change. It holds more water than others I’ve tried, it has multiple uses both from an everyday-carry perspective and as a piece of camping gear. In addition to holding water, it can also be a measuring cup, a dry container for rainy days or water adventures, a storage container to keep your food away from pests and so much more. It’s simply a superior bottle.

Nalgene Water Bottle
from Bed Bath & Beyond

Let Your Mind Wander and Jot Down Your Thoughts

You never know when the next great idea will strike you. It could be at the office, but it also could be at the campground or on the open trail. Always be prepared with the Fisher space pen. This seemingly ordinary writing utensil can transfer your thoughts to paper in nearly any situation (upside down, in high temperatures, over grease and even underwater). It’s a true everyday-carry essential at its finest.

Bullet Fisher Space Pen
from East Dane

August 1, 2017

Super Cute School Supplies You Didn’t Know You Needed

Whether you earned your own money lifeguarding all summer as a high school student or you’re adulting pretty hard with a full-time job, getting to pick out your own school supplies means you can splurge on the fun, quirky stuff you didn’t even know you needed. The best part is that you don’t even have to be in school to enjoy these. Who can resist a flat-bread pencil case or a “Dr. Who” Tardis lunch box? Check out these school supplies you didn’t know you needed but will surely want!

Graffiti-Print Backpack

This faux-leather pack has personality written all over it.

Graffiti-Print Backpack
from Asos

Flat-Bread Pencil Case

Good enough to eat. This pencil case can also be used for brushes, pens or even makeup.

Flat-Bread Pencil Case
from Etsy

Optical Illusion Bookmarks

Remember how excited you used to get over a bookmark? These optical illusion bookmarks are colorful and fun, and they’ll make you reminisce about your Dr. Seuss-reading days.

Optical Illusion Bookmarks
from Oriental Trading Co.

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