Tag Archives: natural hair

My Top 5 Buys of 2023: A Year of Style, Fitness, and Self-Care

authenb

2023 is wrapped up and it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year’s highlights. For me, that includes the most used purchases that have truly elevated my lifestyle. From fashion to fitness and skincare, here are my top 5 buys of the year. They have not only added joy to my daily routine but also enhanced my overall well-being.

1. New Balance 515 V3 & Dynasoft Nergize Sport V2 Running Shoe

Kicking off the list is the New Balance 515 V3 Sneaker and Dynasoft Nergize Sport V2 Running Shoe. A game-changer in my world. The first pair in white seamlessly blend style and comfort, making them the perfect choice for both casual outings and active days.

2023 was a year of getting active for me so the Dynasoft Nergize Sport V2 Running Shoe was so important for my walking journey. I set out to walk more this year and this is the shoe I clocked so many miles in. They feel like walking on air and I traveled in them quite a bit too!

2. Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells:

In my fitness journey, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells have been an absolute revelation. These versatile dumbbells replace an entire set, allowing for space savings and quick weight adjustments with just a turn of the dial. As I’m getting stronger I don’t have to spend more money on more weights. Investing in these dumbbells has undoubtedly taken my strength and home gym to the next level.

3. Quilted Bomber Jacket:

Transitioning into the world of fashion, this quilted Bomber Jacket has become a staple in my wardrobe. Its stylish yet functional design adds a touch of edginess to any outfit, and the quilted detailing provides an extra layer of warmth during cooler months. It’s great for rainy days and cool days alike.

4. Ilia Multi Stick – Shade a Fine Romance:

The Ilia multi stick in Shade a Fine Romance has earned its spot on my list for its multitasking magic on my deep skin tone. This versatile product serves as a blush, lip tint, and eyeshadow, simplifying my beauty routine while delivering a natural, radiant finish. The subtle, rosy hue adds a touch of warmth to my complexion, making it a must-have in my makeup arsenal.

5. Colleen Rothschild Skincare:

Last but certainly not least, my skincare routine received a major upgrade with Colleen Rothschild products. I’ve finally moved from only wanting to do the bare basics to enjoying skincare as self care. From cleansers to serums, each product is meticulously crafted with high-quality ingredients to nourish and revitalize the skin. The luxurious feel of these skincare gems has turned my daily skincare routine into a ritual where I get to pamper myself daily.

These top 5 buys have left an indelible mark on my year and enhanced so many aspects of my life. Whether it’s stepping out in style, breaking a sweat in garage gym, or indulging in a skincare regimen that feels like a spa day, these purchases have truly made a difference. Here’s to a year of style, fitness, and self-care – may 2024 bring even more exciting discoveries and delightful meaningful buys for you! Love ya Color Bees! (You can get direct access to all my buys by following me in the LTK app)

Best,

Brandy G.

Cozy Outerwear from Abercrombie & Fitch

authenb

I am NOT down with skipping over Thanksgiving and going straight to Christmas but I can’t lie, I am thinking about my gift giving already. I am at the stage in my life that I want to give practical gifts that will actually be loved and used. Classic styles are definitely the way to go. Thanks to Abercrombie & Fitch for sponsoring this cozy look!

If I were to receive this plaid coat from someone as a gift this holiday season I would be thrilled! This long wool blend coat will be in your closet forever! It is classic so it will forever be in style. It can easily be dressed up for more formal occasions as well as dressed down for a casual day of brunch and errands.

This floral embroidered tee is unbelievably soft and so dang cute! Just like the coat, it can easily be up styled for a fancier look if you need it to. It is totally a next level gray tee.

You generally can’t go into the world with out pants so why not wear the best jeans your butt ever felt?!?! These high rise distress denim jeans are amazing on so many different body types and they fit like a dream. I am happy to say that they are kid proofed. You can bend over, pick up , run with, and carry your kids around with out the fear of a “crack attack.” They stay in place and keep their shape all day.

I understand that you may get these pieces for someone else and end up keeping them for yourself. They really are that great so I included a special pine scented candle that will always remind you and your loved ones of the special holiday times. That will be easier to gift but get two just in case you need to keep that as well Lol Enjoy!

Plaid Coat

Floral Embroidered Tee

High Rise Denim Jeans

Candle

This look is sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch. All opinions are my own.

Buffalo Plaid Poncho

authenb

Thank you Charming Charlie for sponsoring this look!

Buffalo Plaid Poncho $30

This is such a fun look for a cool rainy day! At some point this Fall it will be wet and cloudy but you can bring the sunshine with this outfit.

The bright red colors is one of the keys to the “cheerful” feeling of this look. Now add the different horizontal striped pattern in the tee shirt and you’ve added another great element to this look. The pants are a cropped pixie pant but the small plaid pattern add even more interest to this look with an extra dose of print. You know me! I’m all about print, patterns and color! Lastly, on my feet are ultra fun plaid rain boots from Charming Charlie to keep my toes dry while I looks cute.

Pop on a bold red lip color and your favorite pair on sunglasses and run out of the door. This look is completely comfortable, kid friendly and mom proof. I guarantee that your littles with want to snuggle in your poncho. Enjoy!

Graphic Pullover + Boyfriend Jeans

authenb

My summer vacation as a teacher has officially ended. I had my first day back to school and I am so tired. I always say, “There is no tired like the first day of school tired.” As I prepared this blog post all I can think about is how often we ask our children to be “nice” to each other. At school and at home it is a word that I used generously.

I find that as adults we tend to forget about being nice to ourselves! We do things we don’t like, each foods that make us feel bad sometimes and wear clothes that our bodies find restricting. We should all take a moment or two to think about how we can be nice to ourselves and try to remember to do that often.

For me, dressing comfortably especially when I’m with my son is one way that I’m nice to myself. Old Navy sponsored this look that allows me to run and play with my son while I look stylish. There is nothing worse than pulling and tugging on your clothing while you’re trying to focus on having a good time with your babies. A colorful comfortable pull over with boyfriend jeans and sandals that stay on you feet if just right for a day of fun and play. Find ways to be kind to yourself and do it daily! Enjoy!

Upgrade Your Denim with Ann Taylor

authenb

We all know skinny jeans are a wardrobe staple for men and women alike. If we’re going to have them in heavy rotation in our closets, shouldn’t they be the best? By the best I mean the perfect wash, uber comfortable AND holds their shape ALL DAY! Ann Taylor gave us some major upgrades in their skinny fit and it is beyond amazing.

We have all started our morning in the perfect pair of skinnies only to find by noon that we have baggy knee syndrome. With maximum stretch and recovery your skinnies from Ann Taylor will look fresh all day long.

For this Ann Taylor look I wanted a fun brunch look. Skinny denim is a no brainer but my double V knit top is the icing on the cake. It’s an amazing pop of orange color and the sliver of pink on the hem and sleeves is just so sweet.

I’m always looking for ways to add in textures, prints, and patterns and I was able to do that with my accessories. Ann Taylor’s floral statement earrings have so much dimension and texture. They help take my classic look to another level. To take this look up another notch, I added in a leopard fold over clutch. Lastly, a pair of multi colored striped wedge shoes sealed the deal.

When ever you feel like taking your classic look to new heights be sure that you have on your best Ann Taylor denim and spice it up with unique accessories. Enjoy!