Sunday, March 30, 2014

Spring Colors

Today was the first real day of spring here in Wisconsin.  Even though it's not going to last very long (stupid snow), it got me in the mood to do a little shopping and start the hunt for spring colors.

One thing that I absolutely love is pastel colored nail polish.  I have chosen my top 3.  If you haven't checked out my Pinterest page yet, you might know that I'm partial to one of the colors below....





Since, I'm on the topic of my favorite color (and if you don't know by now, it's mint!)  I came across the most beautiful purse in the word.  This purse was a little pricey, but felt like a spring/summer staple piece such as this, would be worth it.

Photo taken from Shopbop.com


I purchased this purse on Shopbop.com  Since the warehouse is based in Madison, I received my package pretty quickly.  I also treated myself to some Tory Burch flip flops that were on "clearance".


Next mission to find cute spring clothes!

Happy Spring!

~Holsnicole


*This is not a sponsored post.  The following items were purchased on my own. 

Friday, March 28, 2014

Stitch Fix

A few months ago my co-worker was telling me about a website called Stitch Fix, where you could have your own personal shopper.  I thought to myself how cool is that!  Personally, I have a hard time finding clothes that actually fit or look good on me, so I was a little worried that it might be a waste of time and money. Yet I still took the chance!

There is a little bit of a wait when requesting your "fix", it's not something you can order and have within a week.  I think I scheduled my fix for about a month out. (I already want to schedule my next!)  There is a $20 "styling" fee, however that fee will be placed as a credit towards your purchase.  However, if you do not purchase anything in your fix, you do lose out on that money.

Prior to scheduling your fix you will fill out a short questionnaire about your style.  Styles you like, your body type, colors, etc.  One thing that I really liked about the questionnaire was the fact that you were able to put a link to one of your Pinterest pages, LinkedIn and Twitter account. My stylist stated that my Pinterest board
really helped her.  I would have to agree ! Tip-link a board that most matches your current style or a style you would like to try.

I received 5 pieces in my fix.  This is typical.  The price range on the items in my fix were anywhere from $48-$88.  Some things I did find a little pricey, but the way I look at it is the fact that they are unique pieces and overall it's just the excitement of getting clothes right to your door that were selected just for you! Tip-You can tailor your price range within your questionnaire, however the avg piece is normally around $65

Here is a collection of the pieces I received.  I ended up keeping the scarf, tank top and jeans. The other two items did not fit or look good on me.




Overall, I am very happy with Stitch Fix.  My "Stylist", Lisa did very well and I never thought I would end up purchasing 3 items.  The 3 items that I purchased ended up totaling $174. Which I know is a little on the pricey side.  The total fix would have been $210, since you do get 25% off when you purchase everything, but of course not everything worked out.

If you are interested in getting your own "fix" feel free to use my referral code!

Happy Shopping!

~Holsnicole


*This post is not sponsored by Stitch Fix.  I purchased my "fix" on my own and this is my personal opinion.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Beer Cheese Dip

Are you in a rush to make something for a party that starts in an hour?  Don't stress out! This dip is by far the easiest thing I have ever made.

I found the recipe on the Kraft Foods website, but I change a few things everytime I make it. 

Photo Taken from the Kraft Foods Website


What you need:

1 pkg. (8oz) Cream Cheese, softened -I prefer whipped cream cheese
1/4 Cup Ranch Dressing -I just normally use Target brand
1 Cup  Shredded Cheddar Cheese -Yes, I will have to admit I normally put in more than a cup :)
1/4 Cup Beer - I've used anything from Miller Lite, New Glarus Spotted Cow (if you live in Wisconsin you know what this is), and even Canadian beer. 
2 Green Onions, Chopped - Sometimes I leave these out. 


What Do I Do Now:

Beat Cream Cheese and Dressing in a medium bowl with mixer until well blended.

Stir in remaining ingredients.

Refrigerate several hours or until chilled. 

I normally serve with pretzels.  But this dip pretty much goes with anything. 

Happy Dipping!


~Holsnicole

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Target Beauty Box is Here!

Didn't know that Target offered a box of beauty deluxe to full size products?  Well, they do and it's awesome!


This is my second beauty box from Target and I have nothing but good things to say!  This one came a lot faster than the first one and overall better products. The one thing that I was a little disappointed about was the fact that they charged me shipping, after it stated on their site, that the beauty box had free shipping. Overall, still worth $11!

The box is nicely packaged in a sturdy, white box with a sleeve with Target logos on it.  When you open the box up, it has red tissue and a card (just like other subscription boxes) with product information and a coupon!  (least this coupon if valid for more than 2 weeks, unlike the last box).



So, you're wondering what came in this box.....well, here it is!

Toni&Guy Casual Sea Salt Texturising Spray  2.5oz.

L'Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara  Full Size  (so excited to try this product!)

Herbal Essences Naked Dry Shampoo 1.7oz.  (smells amazing)

CoverGirl Smoochies Sizzle Gloss in Tickled Pink  Full Size (love the lipstick, hope this is just as good)

Jergens BB Body Cream Light 2oz.  (Received this in my Birchbox-let me know if you are interested in trying this product, I would love to gift this to someone!)

I really hope that Target continues with these boxes.  I think its a great way to try out drug store type of products at a reasonable price.   Totally bummed though. I just looked online and the box is sold out, hopefully they will add more, so you guys can try it.

Nice work, Target!


~Holsnicole

*This is not a sponsored post. 

Sunday, March 16, 2014

March Birchbox Review

It's that time of month again....Birchbox time!  If you didn't know, I am dedicated to bringing you at least 12 months of Birchbox reviews. If you likes these and I'm overall happy with the products that I receive, I'll continue.

Just like every other month, I can never wait to see what comes in the box and I always check online before it arrives to see what's in store for me this month.  My goal next month is to not look! :)

Let's dive into it!



1. Air Repair-Rescue Balm-  Overall, the smell of this product is nasty! Very medicated.  I would never put this on my lips.  I put it on my elbows, just to try it out and had to put other lotion over it, just to cover the smell. I couldn't really tell a difference that any other lotion could have done.

2. Beauty Protector-Protect and Detangle- In love! This product smells just like the serum that I reviewed for Birchbox a few months ago. This product has so many benefits and use.  The size of this sample, is great for travel.  I think I might even purchase the full-size, just to keep this one for trips. At first I thought the pump was broke, but you really have to pump in order to get the product out.

3. Coola-Tinted Matte SPF 30 for Face-I've been wanting to try this product for a long time! Very light and smooth product. I love the fact that it's unscented. Can't wait to use it this summer under my foundation. It's SPF 30, which is fantastic.  I'll be spending a lot of time in the sun this summer, so it's perfect!  I will for sure be purchasing a full size of this and checking out their other products.

4. theBalm-How's 'Bout Them Apples? Cheek & Lip Cream-Another product that I was really excited about. I have a few products from theBalm and have always been satisfied with them. I received the color "Pie".  It's a pretty reddish-pink.  Most likely I'll be using this for my lips over my Marc Jacobs LipLock.  I don't know if I would wear this color on my cheeks, I'm much more of a rose gold color, soft pink type of girl.

Bonus Sample!
Jergens BB Body-This product was from the Birchbox Finds box. Decent size sample, at 1oz.  A product that I will most likely use on my upper arms to even out my skin tones. It also came with a $2 off coupon!  I found out I'll also be getting this product in my Target Beauty Box.  If anyone would like to try it, let me know.  I would be glad to gift my extra sample to someone.

Well, there you have it ladies, another month, another Birchbox! I was really excited and happy this month with what I received. I really enjoy getting products that you can't get at your local stores.

What did everyone else get this month?

~Holsnicole


Saturday, March 8, 2014

Natural Eyes

Ever since the day that my mom brought a Mary Kay consultant into our house to show me techniques on how to wear makeup when I was younger, I have been in love with natural color eye shadows. I have hazel eyes, so natural tones look the best on me or so I think they do. It provides more of a classic look.

I recently purchased the Naked 3 palette.  I've regretted it ever since. The colors look horrible on me.  I thought I would try the palette out.  I should have just started with single eye shadows, prior to dropping dollars on it.

Last night I did an Ulta run.  I was looking at different palettes within the high end brands.  I came across the Pop Beauty - Bright Up Your Life - Naturally Bare palette. It has 10 shadows, that I fell in love with.  This palette was reasonably priced at about $24.  More than half the cost of the Naked palettes.



I used it for the first time this morning and so far I have been loving it! There was some fall out from the colors, so we'll see what the rest of today brings.  There is a mixture of matte and sparkle shades, but nothing too crazy.  The colors are super pigmented. There are so many different looks that you could do with this palette.  I feel that it was worth the money for sure. It also included a duo brush, which I haven't tried yet, but will for sure.

This palette will be great for travel, due to the fact that it does come with a brush and every color I would ever need is included. The only down fall of it, is the lid is plastic. I'm a little afraid it might crack.

Overall, very happy with this product and looking forward to trying more Pop Beauty products.

What are your favorite eye shadow palettes, brands, colors?

~Holsnicole

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Themed Rooms

Most people normally have themed rooms or a color scheme in each room. When I moved into my apartment 6 years ago, I decided to turn my kitchen into a "drink theme" with using red accents.  About a year ago while on a weekend trip to Gurnee Mills, IL, I found a Chicago picture at their local Target, that was red and thought it would be perfect!



That kicked off my Chicago theme....


If you don't already know, I am obsessed with the City of Chicago. I've been on the hunt for other things to put in my kitchen.  I've found a really cute mug at Target recently and then also a bottle of vodka that is limited edition (took me forever to find it!)

(See the John Hancock stir sticks :) ) 


(Can't forget my Stanley Cup shot glass!)

Finally to tie in my love of hockey.  I found the following print at Poopsie's in Galena, IL.  I just have to get a frame for it, but I love how it has just a hint of red in it and from far away, you can't even tell that it has to do with hockey.

It's very easy to find a few key pieces to turn any room in your house into a theme.  I will always be on the hunt for Chicago things, but not cheesy tourist things. 

What are some of your favorite themed rooms?

~Holsnicole