Nailing It: Tips to Achieve a Great Superbowl Nail Style

Purple. That is my favorite nail color for the winter season, a deep rich purple. However, with the Superbowl coming up this Sunday, I should probably get the deep blue out because I'm a Patriots fan and supporting them is pretty crucial. Okay...okay it may be a little extreme to represent your team through nail color, but is it any less patriotic than painting my entire body and wiggling all my jiggly parts at the stadium. I think not...well maybe a little.

To assist me in getting the perfect Superbowl nails, I am turning to Julep and their brand of nail polish for help. My favorite brand is usually OPI, but recently I saw a few hues of Julep's that would be perfect to honor my Massachusetts based team.  For my Game Day Nails, I will probably sport one nail with Julep's Claudette color and the rest in their Ilsa hue to represent the deep blue and red colors of the Patriots.

Like any good self-manicure though, I usually have my own steps to not completely make a mockery out of my hands. (Yes, painting my right with my left is hard) I don't know about everyone else, but I almost always paint outside of my nail bed and at times have to repaint a nail because I accidentally peeled off a layer when pulling my leggings up. Needless to say, I save money doing them on my own and after a few tries, they come out pretty good. Therefore, if you are willing to trust me, this is what I have learned to get somewhat professional looking nails.

Have a Paper Towel Roll Nearby
Paper towel is like the Prince Charming who rescues Rapunzel from the tower. Granted, I don't get a kiss, but it is there fore me when I spill acetone, to clean polish off of my skin, and protect surfaces from all the ingredients I use for my mani. He's convenient and comes to the rescue when it counts most. If it weren't for him, my hands would look like a Jackson Pollock painting.

Two Layers of Color One of Clear
If you are like me, you have suffered from NPB (Nail Polish Bubbles). It is not a fun sight and quite honestly supper annoying when you paint your nails and BAM you have little bubbles forming all over the fresh paint. To avoid this, I began giving each layer of polish time to fully dry before placing the next one on. I paint the first layer of color and wait until dry and then mask on the next one. Once those are completely sealed, I then paint over all the nails with a coat of clear nail polish. It is important that for the clear polish your nails are completely dry. Whenever I used to get bubbles it would happen when I placed the clear on too fast. Also, quick suggestion, but make sure your clear is a new and fresh bottle. When clear nail polish gets old the texture changes into a jelly-like substance causing it  to be harder to spread on and work with.

Got a Smudge? Use Some Acetone
I have smudged my polish many times. In this case, you don't have to repaint the nail. Just get a dab of acetone, place it on your finger and gently smooth it out by running your finger over it. Remember, you only need a small dab of acetone. You don't want too much or to rub too hard because than you will peel the color off completely.

File Your Nails the Night Before 
I used to file my nails before painting them and this was a big mistake. I would end up with little hang nails that did not want to smooth out when it came down to the manicure. Now, I file them the night before to ensure they are ready for when I need them to be. I don't know. Maybe my nails are the only ones that do this, but if not, try this suggestion and I promise your nails will listen to you.

Netflix or a Movie is Your Best Friend
I get really bored when I have to wait for my nails to dry. Because of this, I begin moving around which eventually leads me to messing them up and chipping the polish. If you have Netflix or at least a T.V., my suggestion is put on a movie or binge watch a show while they dry. The time will go by faster and the odds of you chipping them will be much less than before. I usually witness Barney Stinson hitting on about twenty women by watching How I Met Your Mother. Did I mention that's in only one episode! I told you letting your nails dry can be entertaining.


Want some more tips for those everyday moments during the Winter?
Here are some great ones from Julep as well:

What the Fall: Fashion and Beauty Essentials for this Autumn

I will start off by saying that I love Spring the most as a season. Then, I would chose Summer and then, I would decide on Fall. I adore sweater weather, but for me, Fall can be at times like the Sunday of seasons. It is there to warn you of winters's impending cold and darkness similar to a Sunday reminding you of the work week's time clock restarting. However, there are loads of reasons to love Fall. Aside from the start of the holiday season, marathons of Friends' Thanksgiving episodes, and touring farms, it is an awesome time of year for fashion. It's the time where minimal layers are being used to give everyone the warmth, but still convenient stylish aurora that Winter majorly lacks in. During the winter I always feel like the younger brother in A Christmas Story, bundled up so much so, that I'm afraid of falling and not being able to get back up. Thankfully, Fall is not like this. Therefore, when fellow blogger, Simone Danielle of Fashion Runs the World, invited me join in on a fall essentials collaboration, I just had to participate.

With that said, here is a list of my Fall Essentials:

1:Sweater 2:Leggings 3:Scarves 5:Facial Wipes 6:Equestrian Boots (Splurge Purchase) 7:Boot Socks 
8:Mustard Yellow Accessories

1. Sweaters 
I cannot live without sweaters. They are secretly my guilty pleasure and I will admit to having way too many of them. For Fall. they work as my jacket--keeping me warm and stylish at the same time. The best part about them is that they can be dressed up or dressed down. I've worn them with everything from yoga pants to pencil skirts.
2. Leggings
EVERYONE SHOULD OWN LEGGINGS! Okay, I know some would rather sport jeans, but personally, I absolutely love leggings. I'm pretty sure I keep Aerie in business from all the ones I buy at their stores. Like sweaters, they are extremely diverse and can be worn in a variety of ways. They even have them in all the colors of the rainbow. I only buy black though because it matches everything, but these babies are comfortable, last for a while, and can be found for a reasonable price in many places. Wear them to the gym, wear them to a nature walk, wear them to cozy movie date, or even wear them to a Thanksgiving dinner because no matter what, they will be faithful and look fabulous. Also, if you buy yoga ones, which are the types I own, your bum will thank you for making it look fit and flirty!
3. Scarves
This has to be the easiest go-to accessory for the Fall season. If you need a pop of color or simply need to get that neck of yours a little toasty, a scarf is your best friend for both. They come in an array of colors and prints and also make a great gift for any occasion!
4. Buns
Being in college, if there is one thing I can relate to, is that Monday mornings and pretty much any morning where you wake up half asleep is a day to don a bun. This signature hairstyle is like that extra cash you keep hidden for a rainy day. It's there when you really need it and surprisingly buns are a necessity quite a lot. It takes a few minutes to make and can easily be made to look effortless when paired with some dangly earrings and wait for it....a scarf.
5. Burt's Bees Cleansing Cloths
I cannot live without these cleansing cloths. Seriously, I would probably melt like the Wicked Witch of the West. Okay, I exaggerate. In all honesty though, I started using these this past summer while working at an away camp and have never looked back. It was quite the tedious task to find wipes that didn't make my eyes itch or dry my skin. These don't do either and for me that is a major win! I use them in the morning to refresh my face and yes to get rid of those dreadful eye boogies. Yes, I said eye boogies. Don't pretend like you haven't had them.
6. Equestrian Boots
Buying a well-made pair of leather boots is one of the best fashion investments one can make. I have had my equestrian boots for almost three years now and they still look great. They can be styled with any ensemble. I'm not really into combat boots or even those that look like Robin Hood went swashbuckling in them. Equestrian boots have a simple design, but also have an effortless chicness to them that will show itself in any outfit you wear.
7. Boot Socks
These are not only cute and match well with your boots and leggings, but they add extra warmth to your legs and feet on a cooler day. It's a win win...enough said.
8. Anything Mustard Yellow 
The description is pretty explanatory, but if you needed to pick a color to rely on during the Fall, try some mustard yellow. Anything in this color is a great choice to spice up an outfit made of darker tones such as burgundy or even purple. It looks amazing against darker hues and creates a contrast that gives you instant street style maven status. Just remember: if it goes well with a hot dog, it goes well with any outfit.


Other Bloggers Involved with Fall Essentials:
Simone Danielle- Fashion Runs the World
Diane Taha- Style Context
Heather- Fashionista NY Girl 

Bloggers Benefit: Fashion Blogger Simone Danielle on Spreading Breast Cancer Awareness

Beauty is her passion, style is her talent, and blogging is her professional habit. Yes, these are all things you could say about beauty and style blogger of Fashion Runs the World, Simone Danielle, but there is more to this stiletto clad maven than meet the eye. Her real love is put into trying to spread awareness for breast cancer. With a personal connection to the cause, Danielle spends time not only posting about make-up tips or what trends are currently making history, but supporting breast cancer awareness though foundations such as Susan G. Komen and movements like The Making Strides Walk. 

Danielle is the second Ambassador for Bloggers Benefit and one to be certainly proud of, due to her inspiring work ethic and strength against the overwhelming power of cancer on today's society. I met her a year ago when I hosted a fashion week lunch and to this day she has become a close blogging acquaintance as well as good friend. Between our conversations about running on no sleep at fashion week, to the politics of style as sex, Danielle and I always know how to have a fun time no matter what the environment. Because, like Danielle's natural knack for beauty and style, her loyalty and caring persona shine bright like the earrings camping out on her ears. It's no surprise that one day her contributions to the world not only fashion wise, but breast cancer awareness wise, will run the world. (pun totally intended) 

We have known each other for quite sometime now and I'd like to think we are blogging buddies. (laughs) Having you participate in Bloggers Benefit is special because you and I have watched each other's sites grow and and become better over time. Am I being sentimental here or do you feel the same? (laughs) 

I do feel the same way! You were one of the first people I actually met through blogging and I'm happy we did because we are good friends. I wish we would see each other more often. But yes our sites have grown since we met each other and it's only going to get better.

Last time I saw you was during September's New York fashion week and we were parting ways on Columbus Circle. Aside from attending a baby shower that day, what else has been going on with you and your fashion based world?

I've been working as well and looking into to getting my Masters degree in Marketing or Communications. I've been thinking about continuing my education for awhile and I can use either of these degrees in the fashion industry, so I'm excited. Plus I've been working on my site and looking for work within the fashion industry. I'm also going to the gym to lose some weight but I looovvveee food so much! It's been a bit of a struggle, but I do want to eat healthier.

On your blog you feature everything from make-up to street style. What about it is your favorite? 

I just love sharing two things that I'm passionate about with my readers. I like staying on top of trends, seeing what's new in fashion and I like those aspects and interoperate that in my outfits. With makeup, it's just so much fun. I wasn't always into it but watching YouTube changed that for me. I enjoy putting on makeup and sharing some of the tips I've learned or the newest lipstick I bought with my readers. It's fun. And my favorite part about it is that it is all subjective. What I like or think is trendy maybe different to the next person.

What made you fall for fashion and beauty?

I've always been into fashion since I was little. I would watch all the red carpet shows before the Oscars, Grammys, etc. to see what everyone is wearing, including the reporter. While I was watching it, I would critique each look especially the ones that were not good. Also, I watched America's Next Top Model a lot and thinking how I wanted to be apart of that world. For makeup I got into it when I was working at a CVS Pharmacy when I was 16. I was into little things like eyeshadow, but I really got into it when I was 23 and starting watching YouTube. I like that makeup enhances a person's beauty and it's fun to create different looks.

Right now, you only write for your blog. Would you ever consider starting a vlog or is being on a video a terrifying feat for you? 

I do want to start a YouTube channel. I am looking into purchasing a new camera that is good for taking video. I don't think I would do makeup tutorials but my channel would be about style, fashion and beauty. I won't lie starting a YT channel is a bit daunting for me because it's over saturated. Everybody is a fashion blogger or a YT vlogger so its hard to stand out amongst the crowd, but I'm willing to take on that challenge.  

Are the goals you had then for your site the same as they are today or have they changed over time?

They are the still the same for the most part. I decided to write my blog as a way to break into the fashion industry. That is the main goal for my blog, but over time I realized that I can make money from it so I'm looking into that. Because of my blog I am able to attend NYFW, but I want to see if I can go to London and Paris fashion week as well. That's my next plan. We should plan something. 

Speaking of goals, I started Bloggers Benefit to spread awareness for charities and campaigns through the influence of bloggers. Why did you decide to be apart of this movement?

I think this is a really good movement and it helps people become aware of the different organizations that are out there. Plus, as bloggers we get to share a piece of our personal life with our readers, which is a great thing as well because we could be helping someone who could be affected by any one of these diseases.

There is an endless amount of charity organizations out there, but you chose to represent The Susan G Komen association for breast cancer awareness. Was there a personal reason behind your decision? 

Yes there was. I lost my mother to Breast Cancer in 2010 and my grandmother (my mom's mother) to the disease as well when I was about eleven or twelve years old. When I lost my mom, however, it changed my whole life.

Along with the Susan G. Komen association, what do you do on your personal time to help with the cause? 

I'm going to be honest, I'm not as involved as I should be which is something I am working on. I want to participate in the walks and raise money for the cause not just during the month of October.

Has there ever been a point where you felt like you truly made a positive difference with it? Your Ah-Ha moment as Oprah would say.

No not really. But by sharing my story with my friends and telling them what I've learned through my loss; I think it has made them see certain things differently.

In the past couple of years the Susan G Komen charity has come under fire because it was discovered that the CEO, Nancy Brinker, was receiving a higher salary than the amount of donations used for actual research. How do you feel about this issue? Does it taint your belief in this particular company? How can you reassure others that the charity is still worth it?

This is the first time hearing of this and it's pretty messed up. However, I do believe in this company and think people should still donate to the cause. There are also other organizations that support Breast Cancer research such as Avon and Making Strides, where a person can donate to a team or to an individual person if they aren't comfortable with donating to Susan G. Komen.  This foundation still raises the most money for the cause though and I do hope that they do lower her salary and use the extra money to fund some more research.

What is your greatest advice for women to avoid getting breast cancer? 

Make sure to get a mammogram and look into seeing if the cancer runs in your family. If it does then its possible that you might get the cancer. Do your research. It is always better to catch the cancer early on than later so make sure to get your breasts check.

Is there a misconception about breast cancer? If so, why do think so many believe this? 

Well, I didn't know that there are different types of breast cancer. My mother had a form of breast cancer which is called Triple Negative. It is an aggressive form of breast cancer that is more likely to affect African American and Hispanic women. I didn't know that there was different forms of breast cancer. I just thought there was one type so I think that's a big misconception. Another misunderstanding is that it can be genetic. Before my mother passed away, she told me there is a test that I can take to see if I have the gene for breast cancer. Since my grandmother and my mom had it, it's probable that I might have the gene as well. If I do have it then I have to start getting mammograms early and take preventative steps to make sure that I can beat it. Also, most people think men can't get breast cancer but they definitely can. It's not just an issue that only women face. Men can get breast cancer too. You don't see a lot of men get the disease. Therefore, it's easy to not think they do, but with research you find these things out. 

If one cannot afford to donate financially, what are other ways to get involved and make a difference? 

You can volunteer during the walks or other events they have. Don't forget that sharing what you know about the disease to other people can help too!

What's the most inspiring thing you have ever been told that you would like to share with those dealing with breast cancer?

This isn't something that I have been told, but it is something that I tell myself.  No matter what, always be strong. It's hard to be strong because you want to break down and cry and it's okay to do so, but after you got it out of your system, you have to continue to fight and be strong.

Ensemble Details

Top: H&M

Skirt: Asos

Shoes: Zara

Bag: Zara

Beanie: Brooklyn Industries

Accessories: Forever 21

Watch: Michael Kors
Jacket: Forever 21

Get Involved with Breast Cancer Awareness by participating or donating to these two organizations! 

Making Strides Walk

Susan G. Komen