:: beachy manicures for summer ::

I have super pale skin that only barely tans in the summer (it doesn't burn, thank goodness). But I've always felt like I've had to do the pinky, Essie Bubble Bath, bubble gum pink colors in the summer time and that was as light as I could go.

Otherwise, it looks like I don't actually have any nails. But I'm trying to embrace the nude nail. One, because it looks so summery and effortless. And two, because if I get a chip, it's barely noticeable. Try saying that about Lincoln Park After Dark.

 Anyone have any taupe-y favorites for me to try?

nude nails by mascaraordie 

:: get your boston bronze on ::

And by "bronze", I do not mean that lovely pink hue on my cheeks. That's windburn. Escalating slowly into frostbite. On days weeks like this when ice and snow remind me who's boss, I need some extra help to not look like death.

Here are my tips for a good winter bronzing:

1. Go a shade lighter than your summer bronzer. In my case, this is only one shade lighter than my skin tone instead of two.

2. Use a powder, always. Not a liquid (too fake-y and too hard to apply and blend).

3. Use a kabuki brush instead of regular blush brush. It distributes the color better and helps to avoid streaking.

imitation summer.

And if you're looking for a tutorial, here's a great one from Birchbox: