Tuesday, May 31, 2016

D.I.Y. State Love Canvas

I first did this craft for my Little during my sorority's Big/Little Week.  For her canvas I put 'VILLANOVA' above the state and 'Alpha Gamma Delta' below it to celebrate our sorority, which you can see here.  I loved the canvas so much that I knew I had to make one for myself and share it with all of you!  The great thing about this craft is that it can be customized for just about any university, school, town, sorority, and more.  It makes an adorable addition to any room and a very cute, unique gift.  Read below to find out how to make your own!

Supplies:
-1 11" x 14" canvas
-2 colors of paint
-Print out of a state
-1 piece of sparkle scrapbook paper
-Pink construction paper
-Paint sponge
-Small paint brush
-Glue

Instructions:
-Paint the canvas using the paint sponge with the color you chose for the background.  You may need to do multiple coats to get a completely solid background, I did four coats to achieve the color I wanted.  Allow to dry completely.
-Cut out the state you printed out.
-Turn over the sparkle scrapbook paper, so that the sparkles are facing down, and using the state you cut out as a stencil, trace it.
-Cut the state you traced out of the sparkle scrapbook paper.
-Glue the sparkle paper state onto the center of the canvas.
-Using the small paint brush and the second paint color paint the name of the university, town, high school, etc. in capital letters above and below the state you glued on the canvas.
-Cut a small heart out of the pink construction paper.
-Using the Maps App on your phone (or Google Maps online) look up the exact placement of the town within the state that the university, town, high school, etc. you've chosen is in.
-Glue the pink heart onto the state where the town is.  Allow to dry.
-Enjoy!
~Use pictures for reference.

What would you commemorate with this craft?

  
                
Make sure to add me on Snapchat - @kthomp22!
Today I'm linking up with Tutu Tuesdays, Confident Twosday, and Style Sessions.

Welcome to Tutu Tuesdays a linkup with The Blush Blonde and The Fairy Princess Diaries!  Linkup whatever you'd like and make sure to do a little mingling - our goal here is to create a community of bloggers where we can all connect, find new blogs, and support one another.  We love new friends, supporting other blogs, and meeting fellow girl bosses!

There are just a few rules we ask you follow to join in on Tutu Tuesdays:

1. Please follow both Jordyn and me, your lovely hosts, on Instagram and/or Bloglovin.
Kristin: The Blush Blonde  |  Bloglovin'  |  Instagram
2. Link to your specific post, not your blog's main page.
3. Grab our super cute button or share a link to Tutu Tuesdays in the post you are linking up so everyone can know about the party!
4. Have fun and mingle with other bloggers that have linked up!  Like I said we want everyone to make new friends!
“The




Monday, May 30, 2016

What to Wear: Summer Style

Sunglasses  |  Romper  |  Top
Dress  |  Bracelet  |  Earrings  |  Shorts

It's finally starting to feel like summer out and I couldn't be more excited.  For the warmer months I love simple, yet chic looks that keep me cool.  In the summer my favorite pieces are dresses and rompers because they're so easy to throw on and go.  Palm prints have been super popular lately and this dress from Topshop is very on trend.  I also think that having a few solid rompers in your summer wardrobe is important because they will go with everything; you will wear this black one all the time and can change the look by wearing different accessories.  A simple tank top and denim cutoffs are absolute must haves for summertime.  This top comes in nine different colors and can be worn with everything from print shorts to a skirt to jeans and more.  My shoe essentials for summer are flat sandals, wedges, and espadrilles.  I am totally in love with this pair from Sole Society, the scalloping is such a cute detail and the nude color will go with so many different things in my closet.  I also love this pair of wedges and they happen to be a dupe for this much more expensive pair from Chloé.  To finish off your look and protect your eyes you need a chic pair of sunnies, while this Karen Walker pair is a splurge they are well worth it!  Lastly, this bracelet and these earrings are also perfect for summer looks.

With these few pieces you are set for the next couple of months and will definitely be cool and stylish.  What pieces are you loving for this time of year?

SHOP THE POST HERE:

  
                
Make sure to add me on Snapchat - @kthomp22!
Today I'm linking up with #HowISpringHello Monday, Let It ShineWeekending, and MIMM.

Friday, May 27, 2016

Friday Favorites

Favorite Summer Show The Bachelorette
I got into The Bachelor last season and was so sad when Ben didn't pick Jojo.  However, I was beyond excited when ABC did pick Jojo to be the new Bachelorette!  Monday's premiere did not disappoint and I cannot wait to see what the rest of the season holds.  What are your thoughts on it so far?

Favorite Fashion DIY Aquazzure-Inspired Pom Pom Sandals
I've been loving pom pom sandals for summer and just about died when I saw this too cute DIY pair.  To be honest at first I thought the pom poms were a part of the initial shoe because it looks so cute and I was so excited to find out that the pom poms were actually a DIY addition!  Find the tutorial here.

Favorite Quote Words of Wisdom
I saw this quote on Pinterest this week and fell in love.  I think these are the perfect words of wisdom to live by!  I also love how the quote is style in this picture.

Favorite Accessory Large Cheetah Print Tassel Keychain
I absolutely love this keychain I found on Etsy!  I think these are so fun and fashionable.  They would make a great addition to any set of keys.  You can purchase one here.

Favorite Nail Art Nude Nails with a Navy Dot
I initially saw Emily Schuman's nails on her Snapchat story (@e.schuman) and was obsessed with them!  So I was super excited when she shared her tutorial for this simple, yet chic look on Instagram.  I can't wait to recreate this look myself!

Have a great Memorial Day Weekend!!

  
                
Make sure to add me on Snapchat - @kthomp22!

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Rompers for Spring Under $100

1  |  2  |  3  |  4  |  5  |  6  |  7

Rompers are my favorite thing to wear in the spring and summer.  I love that you just need to throw on one piece with a few accessories and you're look is done, it couldn't be easier and who doesn't love an easy look?!  I own so many rompers and wear them all spring and summer.  If you follow me on Instagram (@theblushblonde) then you saw the one I bought just last week, and that purchase has me in the mood to keep adding to my collection.  Here I have for you some of the most adorable rompers to add to your warm weather wardrobe.  If you want something subtle this and this solid colored rompers are perfect for you.  If you're looking for something a little brighter one of the print rompers is great for that, I especially love this one because of the sweet ruffle it has on the front and back.  I could see myself wearing any of these though and need some help narrowing it down!  Which one is your favorite?

SHOP THE POST HERE:

  
                
Make sure to add me on Snapchat - @kthomp22!

Today I'm linking up with Your Whims WednesdayWIWWWIWW, Oh Hey Girl!, and Trendy Wednesday.

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Tuesday Ten: Summer Skin

1. Dry brush before you shower.
In my post last Wednesday I briefly discussed dry brushing.  To dry brush you first need to get naked, then you take a brush like this and "brush" your body in sweeping or circular motions from the toes all the way up to your neck (but don't dry brush your face or neck!), and finish by showering.  Dry brushing removes dead skin and helps to improve circulation - it has even been said to help improve the appearance of cellulite.  Doing this before every shower has created a noticeable difference in my skin, it's significantly softer and helped to get rid of the keratosis pilaris on my arms.  If you want smooth skin for summer this is a must try!  This pin has more information on dry brushing and is super helpful.

2. Scrub in the shower.
I always feel like in the summer my skin needs a little extra exfoliation, so about once a week I like to use a body scrub in the shower, in addition to dry brushing.  Even if you skip the dry brush you have to at the least exfoliate in the shower to get smooth skin the warmer months.  I use a scrub at the end of a shower and vigorously scrub my whole body, I then pat it dry and use lotion to lock in the moisture.  Fresh makes the ultimate body scrub, and I also love this one from DERMAdoctor, which physically and chemically exfoliates your skin; you can also DIY a scrub and I have a few recipes coming in the next few weeks!

3. Embrace moisturizing and anti acne body washes.
This might seem kind of counterproductive, but having two different types of body wash is important to get the best skin possible.  I use a moisturizing body wash, like this, for the areas of my body that are dry, like my arms and legs.  I then use an anti acne body wash on spots that tend to break out, like my chest and back, and am a big fan of this.  Another great tip is to make sure to wash your back after you rinse the conditioner out of your hair so you get rid of any residue that could potentially clog your pores.

4. Use a quality razor.
I learned the hard way that using a quality razor is important.  For as long as I can remember I've used Venus razors, even the most basic one contains moisturizer and multiple blades; however, one time I tried to use a super cheap razor and it destroyed my skin.  After I used the cheap disposable razor my legs broke out with horrible razor burn that really hurt; needless to say I never tried that razor again and went back to Venus.  In addition to the awful rash the cheap razor also did not give as nearly as close of a shave as my usual Venus.  This taught me it's worth it to spend a little more on a razor because it just works better, saves time, and prevents problems.

5. Moisturizing shaving cream is a must.
I've been shaving my legs for over a decade and I've learned that next to having a good razor using a moisturizing shaving cream makes all the difference.  My skin is super sensitive to some shaving creams, but this one works the best for me and I love it.  Using a moisturizing shaving cream will help you to avoid cutting yourself, help you get a closer shave, and will hydrate your skin.

6. Get Bikini Zone.
To avoid razor burn on your bikini line Bikini Zone is an absolute must have.  I always used to get razor burn whenever I shaved down there, but this has been a serious game changer for me.  I put this on the areas I shaved when I get out of the shower and it prevents any redness, irritation, and/or itching.  If you wax or depilate your bikini area you can also use this to soothe any irritations you may experience.  I've actually told a few of my friends about how well this works and they love it now too!  For the summer months I also like to use the Bikini Zone Anti-Bumps shave gel when I shave my bikini line just to really make sure my skin doesn't look irritated when I wear a bathing suit.

7. Moisturize with oil.
If you've read some of my beauty posts than you probably know I love using oils to moisturize.  Oils moisturize your skin even better than lotions do and they typically have more natural ingredients, which is a big plus for me.  My favorite oils to use to moisturize my body are coconut oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil; I used to also love using almond oil, but I developed a bad allergy to tree nuts so I can't use it anymore.  I advise putting oil on before you go to bed so it is all absorbed in the morning and you wake up with soft, gorgeous skin.

8. Use a firming cream.
I am a huge fan of Nivea Skin Firming Hydration Body Lotion with Q10 Plus.  Not only does this lotion moisturize your skin nicely and smell good, but it helps to tone and firm skin too.  I've been using this for years and it does noticeably tighten the skin on your body.  I love using this cream in the summertime because a lot more of my skin is exposed and this just makes it look nicer.  It helps with the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks and is great for an extra boost of confidence.

9. Take a bath.
Soaking in a bath, especially when you add a moisturizing bubble bath or bath oil to it, is a great way to soften your skin.  If I'm experiencing any skin issues I like to soak in a bath with this before bed and it really soothes my skin.  To get the most out of a bath dry brush before you get in and quickly apply oil to seal in moisture when you get out.

10. Use sunscreen!
In my opinion this is a no brainer because who wants skin cancer or sun damage, but it always amazes me how many people still do not wear sunscreen.  I am crazy about sunscreen because I am so fair skinned and love Neutrogena sun products.  Make sure to apply sunscreen fifteen minutes before sun exposure and to reapply frequently, especially if you're in the water.  If you don't follow any of the other tips on this list please at least follow this one!

What are your best tips for getting your skin summer ready?

  
                
Make sure to add me on Snapchat - @kthomp22!
Today I'm linking up with Tutu Tuesdays, Confident Twosday, and Style Sessions.

Welcome to Tutu Tuesdays a linkup with The Blush Blonde and The Fairy Princess Diaries!  Linkup whatever you'd like and make sure to do a little mingling - our goal here is to create a community of bloggers where we can all connect, find new blogs, and support one another.  We love new friends, supporting other blogs, and meeting fellow girl bosses!

There are just a few rules we ask you follow to join in on Tutu Tuesdays:

1. Please follow both Jordyn and me, your lovely hosts, on Instagram and/or Bloglovin.
Kristin: The Blush Blonde  |  Bloglovin'  |  Instagram
2. Link to your specific post, not your blog's main page.
3. Grab our super cute button or share a link to Tutu Tuesdays in the post you are linking up so everyone can know about the party!
4. Have fun and mingle with other bloggers that have linked up!  Like I said we want everyone to make new friends!
“The




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