HCg Diet: Meal Ideas for the 500 Cal/VLCD Phase

Hi all!

So I am about 35 days into the VLCD phase of the HCg Diet. Now don't get me wrong, I am THRILLED with my 30lb weight loss thus far, but the limited choices have me smelling my kids timbits for some kind variation to my diet!!  In the past week, along with my girlfriend Loni, we have discovered quite a few great ideas for "working with what we got".  If this picture reflects how you feel about your meals right now, read on!

 

Breakfast

 

 

 

 

Ok so I know in this phase we technically don't get a "breakfast" per say, but there a couple options to keep your mornings interesting.

 

• 1/2 Grapefruit warmed, sprinkled with Stevia
• Tetley's Earl Grey Vanilla Tea with Almond Stevia (mmmm, tastes like biscotti)
• 10 small Strawberries, cut up and sprinkled with Vanilla Stevia
• Apple, cut up and baked in the oven with lemon juice and Caramel Stevia
• Apple Cinnamon Tea (Tim Horton's Deluxe Brand) with Caramel Stevia
• Lipton's Superfruits Green Tea, Blackcurrent and Vanilla flavour

 

Keep in mind, these are the breakfast ideas that I have personally tried and enjoyed the most.

 

 



 

Lunch and Dinner

 

 

 Lunch and Dinner allows us to go out of the box a little more, but not by much.  I think we fail to realize how often we rely on sauces, oil and butter in our cooking.  However with a little creativity and planning, our meals can actually bring us some joy and satisfaction!

 

I recommend making your own dressing and putting in the fridge so you can grab it for any type of dish you are preparing.  Mix together Apple Cider Vinegar, Stevia and Salt and Pepper. 

 

Here are a couple meal ideas I enjoy the most:

 

Chicken Stackers:  100 g of fat-free chicken deli meat (fresh), 1 melba toast, cucumber cut up with salt and pepper and Franks Red Hot Sauce.

 

Beef Taco Salad:  100g of extra lean ground beef, lettuce, Salsa (or chopped tomatoes), salt and pepper

 

Peri Peri Chicken:  100 g of chicken breast, Peri Peri Sauce (fat, sugar free from Nando's) with Wild Greens-with Apple Cider Vinegar dressing.

 

Strawberry Cheescake:  10 small strawberries cut up, 100g of fat-free cottage cheese, vanilla stevia

 

Egg Stacker:  1 boiled egg sliced, 1 melba toast, salt and pepper, 1/2 grapefruit with stevia

 

Spicy Chicken Wraps: 100g of chicken, slices, butter lettuce, Peri Peri Sauce or Apple Cider Vinegar dressing.

 

Fish Fancy: 100g of white fish baked with lemon slices, salt and pepper, pinch of paprika.  Tri-coloured grape tomatoes sauteed with garlic and lemon juice.

 

Beef and Brocolli: 100 g of lean steak strips, brocolli, garlic and ClubHouse Beef and Brocolli seasoning pouch.

 

Tuna Salad:  100g of Tuna (solid white packed in water only), mixed with chopped up celery, hot sauce, salt and pepper.

 

Chinese Chicken:  100g of Chiken Breast chopped up and pan fried with garlic, Cabbage and Soy Sauce. 

 

Orange Beef Stirfry:  100g of Lean Steak Strips marinated with the juice of one(1) Orange, pan fried with Brocolli and Garlic.

 

Please feel free to add to the list!  The more options, the greater chance at success!  For more detailed information on getting started on the HCg diet, please see my article "HCg Diet:  The getting started basics"

 

Thank you for reading!

 

Tiffany xo

 

50 Shades of Fabulous

 

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HCg Diet: The Getting Started Basics

Due to the overwhelming number of questions I have been getting in response to my weight loss with the HCg protocol, I thought I would put it all together in a blog! 

Today is my 19th day on the "Protocol" as they call it, and I am down 21 lbs.  I know it seems like a lot in such a short time, but when you learn the science behind the diet, it makes a lot of sense.  Plus, the way I see it, being overweight or obese is a lot worse on your body than losing weight quickly is.

The HCG diet was originally developed in the 1950's by Dr. Simeons.  He discovered that there are three types of fat in the human body: structural fat (cushions bones and organs), normal fat (where the body gets energy), and lastly...abnormal fat...does nothing good for your body other than NOT make you fit into your fav pair of jeans!! 

So how does the HCg work?

When used for weight loss, a tiny dose of HCg tells your hypothalamus to release and mobilize abnormal fat stores, not vital fat stores.  Instead of relying on fuel from food, the body uses these abnormal fat stores!  Because of this, the body doesn't feel hungry.  In fact, the HCg burns 3000-4000 calories per day!!

How do you take it?

HCg is administered in drop and needle form.  I personally take the drops 0.5 ml, 6 times per day.  You cannot have anything to drink or eat 15 minutes before and after you administer the drops.  I set times of 7am, 10am, 1pm, 4pm, 7pm and 10pm.  I also use a white board to keep track of my drops, water and food intake.  Also, one full dropper (1.0ml) of liquid B12 is essential for energy and in aiding your body metabolize fats. 

You WILL have success with this Protocol, but you must be committed.  You MUST follow the dosage and diet exactly as written.  The specific foods and combinations were studied extensively by Dr. Simeons, and eating foods not on the list can cause the plan to fail or be much less successful.  Excerpt from Pounds&Inches Made Easy!  By Janet Wilson and Terrie McDonald

The Diet

Step 1:  Load Days

This is by far the best stage ;-)  For the next two days, while taking your drops, you will attempt to eat as much fatty, fried and creamy foods that you can get your hands on.  Burgers, fries, milkshakes, bacon, cheese, breaded anything, GO FOR IT!!  This stage is SO important as it prepares your body for the journey it's about to take.  You may find it difficult by Day 2 to consume so much, but TRUST ME, you will regret it during the first week if you don't.

Step 2:  VLCD

Breakfast: 

Any non-calorie fluids in any amount.  Tea and coffee are unlimited.  Only one tablespoon of fat-free milk allowed in 24 hours.  Stevia may be used, but no sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Lunch: 

1. 100 Grams of veal, beef, chicken breast, fresh white fish, lobster, crab, or shrimp.  Completely free of any fat.  Meat must be weighed raw.
2. 100 grams of one type of vegetable from the following:  spinach, chard, chicory, beet-greens, green salad, tomatoes, celery, fennel, onions, red radishes, cucumbers, asparagus and cabbage.
3. One breadstick (Grissino) or one Melba toast
4. An apple, orange, 6 large strawberries or half a grapefruit.

Dinner:

Same choices as above, but it is recommended that you try and have variety everyday.

Extra Important Highlights

• You MUST drink at least 2 litres of water every day. 
• The juice of one lemon is allowed
• Seasonings allowed include: Apple Cider Vinegar, French's Mustard, Frank's Hot Sauce, Salt, Pepper, mustard powder, garlic, sweet basil, parsley, thyme etc...
• Absolutely NO oil, butter or dressing
• All fresh herbs allowed
• Personal Care and Beauty products must be oil free.  Mineral makeup is allowed.  For a list of all approved personal care products visit www.hcgdietcanada.com

The next two phases are known as Maintenance 1 and Maintenance 2, where you begin to re-introduce your body to various healthy foods.  I will do a blog on the Maintenance phases when I get a little closer to those phases. 

Also, be sure to be taking your measurements!!  Because the HCg is attacking abnormal fat, your body will begin to reshape itself.  So even if you don't see change on the scale, doesn't mean you won't see a change on the tape measurement!

If you would like more information, please visit www.HCGDietCanada.com or email info@hCGDietCanada.com or curewithhcg@hotmail.com (the latter email is my rep, Sadie who offers great support)

Thank you to my fellow dieter/friend, Loni, who is in this journey with me.

Tiffany xo

How to look like Millions in Minutes: The Beauty Products to get you there!

We've all been there....over snoozed or distracted by other important morning events that we have left almost no time to prepare ourselves for the outside world!  But we all know the importance of putting our best "face" forward.  Plus, when we look good, we FEEL good!  I have learned this fine lesson from my very British mum, who, despite the day, has always managed to face the day looking beautiful and poised.  Now I know everyone out there doesn't always have 2 hours to primp and prine Kardashian-style in front of the mirror, so I thought I would put together a couple of key products to looking your best in minutes. 
 

Tinted Moisturizer/BB Cream

 

Obviously, we would never leave the house without AT LEAST some moisturizer, so why not hit two birds with one stone and get some coverage and radiance.  I agree there are so many choices when it comes to these products and it can be a little overwhelming picking one....

 

 

Pur Minerals Tinted Moisturizer is currently my go-to, 5-minute make-up moisturizer.  I apply it to a large foundation brush and buff it in to my face and neck.  This product is soooo good for your skin and gives you a subtle, fresh glow while providing light coverage.

 

I have tried a few BB creams, but must say my fav of the bunch was the Garnier BB Cream.  Applied very smoothly and lasted all day.  I do usually set my tinted moisturizer/BB cream with my Physicians Formula ToxTen 50 Powder.

Available at Shoppers Drug Mart, www.purminerals.com, www.theshoppingchannel.ca
 

 

Baby Oil

OK, I know what you're thinking....baby oil!?  And as crazy I am sure I sound, this is one of my holy grail products.  Not only is it TOTALLY affordable, but it does wonders in giving your skin an ultra soft touch and glowing appearance.  I use it daily on my entire body, at night to take eye makeup off, after I get out of the shower, after I sunless tan....the list is endless.   It does not leave a greasy/oily residue at all and dries quickly for girls on the go ;-) Last but not least, baby oil is actually made up of mineral oil (think mineral make-up), which is fantastic for your skin and does not clog pores or cause irritation.
 

 

 

 

EYELASHES

 Step aside special occasions only, lashes can be for everyday use too!  If you're unfamiliar with the application, it may take a couple practices to get it right.  But once you have mastered this fine skill, this instant makeover is easier and more time efficient than grooming out your lashes with 3 different mascaras for 10 minutes!

 

My favourite lash of the moment is the Ardell 120 Demi Lashes in Black.  They may look intimidating to the unsuspecting, but these lashes look absolutely STUNNING on with a hint of natural ;-)  I purchase mine in sets of 10 from eBay for around $20.  If you take care of them, meaning you don't yank them off or overglue, they can last you up to around 7-8 uses.  For extra drama, add some mascara to already applied lashes to blend your own and extend the fakies to new heights.

 

BRONZER

Probably my most loved makeup product....the right bronzer can transform you.  Rule of thumb: stay away from shimmery bronzers.  They do nothing for you other than make you look like a disco ball.  If it's luminosity you are going for, that can be achieved with foundation or a highlighting powder.   Bronzer is my key to contour...hallows of your cheeks, sides of your nose, and under your chin will instantly give your features the definition they deserve.

 

 

I recently succumb to months of temptation and purchased the Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer.  I was NOT disappointed and this product absolutely lives up to its hype.  It is made up of actual cocoa, which smells like hot chocolate when you apply it.  So delectable!  The finish is a flawless, matte bronzer which lasts all day.  LOVE it!!!!!

 

www.sephora.com

 

LIPS

No matter what you do to your face, if you leave the house with dry, bare lips, you misewell just turn around and go back home.  Lips finish a look, even if it's just minimal tinted chapstick. 

 

 

 

The Lip Appeal from BeautiControl is my hidden gem.  The larger tube is like a lip mask, wait for it to dry, wash off, and your lips feel instantly smooth and plump!  The smaller tube is a terrific balm that "seals" the deal ;-)  I absolutely LOVE this product.

If you are interested in ordering this product or would like to see a full catalogue, please contact me directly at tiffany.sharp@telus.net.

Thanks so much for reading!  Have any topics you would like me cover...I would love to hear from you!

Tiffany xo

www.50ShadesOfFabulous.ca (coming soon!)
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How to: Sex Siren Hair

How to: Sex Siren Waves

www.HairShearsPro.com/blog/                                      

With the change of the leaves, it only means one thing….PARTY season is fast approaching. Gone be the days of outside, laid back BBQ’ing and HELLO Glitzy, Glam, Indoor Soiree’s! Beachy Waves are replaced with Sexy, Voluptuous Curls and Bronze skin is replaced with Stand-out Lips. Dressing up and looking ultra feminine is one of my favourite things about cooler weather. Scarves, chunky knits, faux-fur, pearls, LBD’s, oh, and SEX SIREN WAVES!!!

Sex Siren hair starts with the fundamentals. With all of the fall/winter outside elements, your hair bares a lot of abuse. Just as you take care of sun damaged hair during the summer months, being proactive will keep your hair in check and ready to style effortlessly. Using a mask like the Macadamia Oil Mask, will do wonders in the protection and repair department. Also, be sure to use a wide tooth comb like the Olivia Garden Bamboo Comb Large 6″, to avoid breakage and frizz.

Now that your hair is prepped and given some LOVE, here’s how to get those super sultry, knock ‘em dead waves:

1. Seperate hair into first bottom section and spray with a heat spray, like the Redken Spray Starch 15 (loving that right now!)
2. Using a Reverse Wand (provide such interesting, tousled curls), like the Karmin Salon Pro Clipless Tourmaline Curling Iron , begin wrapping 1 inch sections around the barrel with the narrowest part facing down. Be sure to use the heat protectant glove (especially if you’re just getting used to it) to avoid burning your fingers!
3. Hold the curl on the barrel for around 10 seconds and gently release. If you are wanting less of a curl, hold for less time and use slightly larger sections.
4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 for the rest of your hair.
5. Once cooled, finger through all of your curls to break them up and make them look less “polished”. Use a curl definition/hold spray, like Redken’s WaxBlast 10 all over hair.
6. Using a flat iron, like the the Karmin Titanium Hair Straightener, flat iron the crown of your hair (just the first 1″ inch from your scalp down the strand.) I find this takes the look from bedhead to bombshell.
7. Spray with shine spray to eliminate frizz.

This curl will usually last you AT LEAST two days, which is totally worth all the styling time. Plus, now that your hair is styled there are a plethora of super hot-right-now styles you can rock with ease!

Casual Updo

I love Brooklyn Decker’s casual, yet super sexy updo. Achieve this look by pulling hair into low bun and loosely securing with bobby pins. Don’t be afraid to let a few pieces loose to fall around your face.

Partial Updo

Great for Day 2 curls, this ultra femme look is ready to roll in minutes. Simply secure top section of your hair with a super girly clip and voila! Sex Siren at your service

Messy High Bun

Last but definitely not least, is the infamous high bun. I have been LOVING this trend for the past few months, and it is soooo much easier when your hair is curlier with product. For best results, tip head upside down to gather your hair for the bun. Secure in place with pins or ponytail holders. If need be, freshen up fallen out curls with your curling wand.

 

Please let me know what your favourite style is!

 

Thanks for reading,

Tiffany xo

50 Shades of Fabulous

 

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Top 10 Holy Grail Make-Up Products

We all have those products....the ones that we can absolutely not live without, the HOLY GRAIL of all things beauty!!!  How I plan to narrow it down to ten befalls me, but I will do my best ;-)  Please keep in mind, that these products are MY Faves and work for me personally....meaning just because they work for me, doesn't mean they will work for you!  I have tried to pick products that are affordable and attainable, so you can try them out too!

1.  Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer

 

No surprise to the YouTube community, this HOLY GRAIL concealer would be my one "desert island" item.  This concealer is absolutely amazing.  I use it under my eyes as well as everywhere else, to brighten, treat and conceal my skin.  I love the applicator sponge and the price is fantastic!

 

 

2.  Physician`s Formula CoverTox Ten 50 Powder

 

Ahhhh, my miracle powder!  This is THE most amazing product.  I mostly use it to set my concealer and foundation.  It leaves such a beautiful finish, lasts forever and diminishes wrinkles and fine lines.  Convinced yet?  It has an almost transparent finish and doesn't leave a white cast like some setting/HD powders.  Another bonus...use it on your decolletage to cover up ageing skin and sun damage. 

 

 

3.  MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack

 

This has been one of my favourites for YEARS!  MAC's Fluidline in Blacktrack is such a beautiful liner.  The pigmentation is perfect and the texture allows for more error than it's liquid liner counterparts.  It doesn't dry instantly, which gives you time to blend it out if needed.  I do use this product on my waterline occasionally and it stays forever! Lasts all day and totally worth the price.  Best applied with an angle brush.

 

 

4.  Rimmel Blush in Autumn Catwalk

 

For a self confessed "blush whore", I am amazed at this blush.  This looks SO good on....I blend all the colours together and apply it to the apple of my cheeks.  Although I am not a big fan of the packaging (little flimsy), I find myself reaching for this more than my MAC and NARS blushes.  I did have a hard time finding this in stores, so I purchased a few of them off e.Bay.  Absolutely affordable and long lasting.

 

 

5.  The Balm Nude Tude Palette

 

Yes, I know I am going against the majority on this one by not choosing UD's Naked Palettes, but OMG, this Nude Tude Palette from The Balm is FABULOUS!!!  I have used each and every colour and love every single one of them.  The colours are very pigmented, although the pans are a little smaller then I would like them to be.  I think the packaging is why I originally purchased this, I mean, how adorable is this? 

 

6.  Neutrogena Make-Up Wipes

I LOVE these wipes.  Before these, I was using MAC Wipes for about 8+ years, so I think that says a lot about these ones from Neutrogena.  They are so soft and remove all signs of make-up (even my Fluidline Blacktrack!) with ease.  They don't dry out near the end of the bag like some and will leave your skin feeling refreshed and clean.  I have sensitive skin and these wipes don't irritate or cause me to break out.  For under $10, you can't go wrong!  A make-up case must have.

 

 

7.  MAC Face Primer

 

I always end up going back to this CULT Fave.  Although it is slightly more expensive than some popular drugstore primers, I believe it is worth every penny.  I apply this over my face and neck with a flat top type brush.  Not only does it extend my product and make it more blendable, it gives staying power to my foundation/concealer/powder.  A good primer really does make a difference in your face routine, especially if you have ageing skin, as it disallows make-up from settling into fine lines and wrinkles.

 

 

8.  PUR Minerals 4-in-1 Pressed Foundation

 

I have been using this product for about 2+ years and still love it as much as the first day I tried it.  It is my everyday face and gives me an airbrushed look in minutes.  It looks so natural, that no matter how close you look in the mirror, you can't see any product sitting on top of your skin.  Full of good-for-your-skin ingredients, this powder won't clog your pores and break you out and will work for the even the most sensitive of skin types.

 

 

9.  MAC Paint Pot in Constructivist

 

Don't get me wrong, I love MAC's Soft Ochre and Painterly for my everyday base but this rich bronze/brown base gets used AT LEAST once a week.  For a quick, sexy, smoky brown eye, this base will do the job.  Constructivist is a beautiful base under shadows or even worn alone.  Such a gorgeous, workable finish, this will become one of your faves, promise ;-)

 

 

10.  Vichy Sunless Tanner Moisturizing Milk (Sensitive Skin)

If you want beautiful, tan, moisturised skin all year round, this is your product!!  I use this on my face and neck twice a week to give my skin a fabulous bronze glow.  Not streaky or smelly, this sunless tanner applies beautifully.  Vichy is known for their skincare line and this product definitely stands up to par.  It does not break you out or make your skin greasy like all the other face tanners I have tried.  One bottle will usually last about 3 months.  Who ever said Summer was the only season you can be the Bronze Sun Goddess you deserve?!

 

 

Thanks for taking the time to read about my HOLY GRAIL make-up products.  If you have any products that are your faves, please leave them in the comments below!

 

Tiffany xo

50 Shades of Fabulous

 

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Trends to Try this Fall-Fashion, Make-Up and More!

As reluctant as I was to embrace autumn, it is now in full swing and it is time we narrow down our top "wearable" trends for the season.  And, truth be told, I am quite excited about it.  The choice spectrum is HUGE with everyting from ladylike lace to sex-siren patent leather!  Now let's be realistic here, I am a mother of two, and straight-from-the-catwalk looks just ain't gonna fly.  Yes, I do like to be on trend, but I need comfort and wearability JUST as much.  Can I get an Amen?  As awesome it would be to wear a full length golden shimmer gown to drop the kids off at school, it just ain't gonna fly.

 

Fall Trend- Magnificent Maroon (aka Oxsblood)

Nothing says fall quite like deep, rich colour like bergundy, black cherry and brick tones.  This Fall's "new black" can be worn all over or just in statement pieces like a patent leather purse or an oxsblood vest. 

 

I really love OPI's new Germany collection which features a GORGEOUS colour called GERMAN-icure (pictured below).  This collection is full of this season's hottest shades that I can't wait to try out!

 

 

 

You can never go wrong with a good pair of skinny jeans or leggings.  I plan to pick up these Bergundy Slim Pants from Ricki's (www.rickis.com) for $49.50

 

 

 

Nothing is sexier than a deeply coloured pout.  I can't wait to pair my MAC lipstick in Diva (a matte black-cherry colour) with minimal make-up and lashes.

 

 

 

Fall Trend- Sexy Animal Print

I think it is absolutely fantastic that I can finally embrace my inner cougar and rock out any animal print I choose without getting the evil eye at the grocery store!  This seasons hot animal prints are showing up everywhere from flats to fingernails!  Here's how I plan to integrate it into my wardrobe:

 

You can't go wrong with a pair of flats.  I love these ones pictured above from www.piperline.com.  The gold detail on the toe adds a bit of flare, while the print neutral enough to be worn with a variety of fall pieces.

 

 

I love this Safari print blouse from Forever 21.  Super feminie and flirty and looks awesome with red or burgendy tones.  I think it's important to look for softer fabrics when going with a busy design. It helps keep the look feminine, not scary ;-)

 

 

For the more adventerous fashionista's, I found this smoking hot assymetrical dress on one of my new favourite sites www.boohoo.com .  Although I haven't purchased it yet, I love the shape of this dress and think it would look fantastic with some red lips and black pumps for a night out with the girls!

 

Fall Trend- Flawless, Glowing Skin

I know what you're thinking....since when did nice skin become a trend?!  Well in the world of skin care and make-up, your skin is your best accessory this Fall. 

 

Altough I haven't jumped onto the BB Cream train just yet, I plan to do so this Fall with Smashbox's Camera Ready.  This top-rated BB cream has an SPF 35, primes, perfects, hydrates and controls oil.  Sounds too good to be true....I will update with a review in the near future.

 

Just because summer is coming to an end, doesn't mean you should pack away your bronzer!  The Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer is available at Sephora or online at www.toofaced.com  and is a huge hit amounst the You Tube community.  Made with real cocoa, this bronzer feels as good as it looks.  For a full description of this product click here.  I think I will order the lighter colour, Milk Chocolate, for fall to give me a subtle, fresh glow.

 

I have heard AMAZING things about this product from Josie Maran.  To keep skin looking revitalized and vibrant, rub this into your face, neck and decollage before you go to bed.  This miracle products also reduces fine lines and fixes split ends...can we say miracle in a jar? 

 

Fall Trend- The Statement Necklace

If you are anything like me, you just can't leave the house without your finishing touch, jewellery!  This seasons statement necklace can not only complete your outfit, but make it as well.

 

 

For those of us that aren't too keen on the "pretty" collar trend in fashion, this elegant and stunning necklace from www.MyTouchstoneCrystal.com/TrueElegance will keep you beautifully on trend.   This necklace would make any outfit extra special and I especially love all the different colours of gold and bronze.  I really hope to purchase this in the coming weeks ;-)

 

Fall Trend- Lace

I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I am to partake in this ultra feminine Fall trend.  Usually reserved for weddings and table cloths, this seasons lace fetish has me on the hunt for some wearable trendy pieces. 

 

 

 

I absolutely LOVE this outfit put together by fashionistatrends.com.  Although the peekabo lace vest from BKE Boutique is subtle, it stands out against the darker more military inspired pieces.  The great thing about lace is that it is so very multipurpose....Think blue jeans and motorcycle boots or pencil skirt and pumps. 

 

 

Well I hope this gives everyone a good idea of what trends to watch for in the stores in the next couple of weeks.  Take chances and try new things.  You only live once!

 

For all the latest Fall Hair Trends, please read my article:  Fall Hair Trends 2012.

 

Thanks sooooo much for taking the time to read this, I appreciate every single one of you allowing me to write about what I love!

 

Take Care,

 

Tiffany xo

 

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Most Worn Things: SUMMER EDITION!!!

With Summer gearing down to an end, I thought it would be kind of fun to narrow down some of my FAV products that I used this summer!  Not to mention all the YouTube videos floating around....yes, yes, I will be posting mine this weekend ;-)  But in the meantime, I thought I would hit pen to paper and put it on here for y'all.

The Tag:

1) Most worn nail polish

Without a doubt, my most worn nail colour was Essie's Penny Talk from their Mirror Metalics Summer 2012 collection.  It goes on absolutely beautifully and is such a gorgeous bronze colour with hints of pink pearl.

2) Most worn scent

I first discovered my Summer's favourite scent while at my daughter's preschool.  For a nanny, this lady looked pretty fabulous with her magenta lips and leopard wedges!  All I know is she smelled so heavenly, like Cupcakes and Coconuts, I just had to ask her what she was wearing.  She said  in a very strong Spanish accent "Cake", winked and walked away.  Despite the strange interaction, I was determined to track it down.  I found out it was a brand exclusive to Sephora and it was pretty reasonable.  I purchased the Cake "Indulge" perfume as well as the Hi-Light body lotion and have been in love ever since.  Even though I will be packing it away for the fall season, I will miss it's delicious and pretty scent. 

3) Most worn hair product

Without a doubt, I will have to say my Morrocanoil Light I purchased at a hair show at the beginning of summer.  Seriously, if this stuff wasn't as expensive as it is, I would consider bathing in it.  I use it when I get out of the shower, even before I wrap my hair in the towel, for kind of a deep conditioning effect.  I also use it after I have finished flat ironing my hair to add a beautiful shine and finish.  I don't know if it's just me, but I think this stuff smells AMAZING.  I even use it on dry patches of skin and my dogs pads of their feet!  Can't say enough about it....OBSESSED!!!

4) Most worn bag

This falls into the steal of the summer category!  I purchased my Baci Couture Oversized Brown leather purse from Shoe Company for $29.99!  I just love the feel and texture of this bag.  I adore that it looks glam with it's gold accents and trendy with it's subtle tassells.  Super big and tons of room made this the perfect bag for toting everything from sun lotion to my new little puppy, Owen!  Absolutely FABULOUS!

5) Most worn shoes

Sandals obviously!  I picked these lovelies up at Payless for around $25 and have worn them pretty much everyday.  It doesn't hurt matters that they match my Baci bag (above) perfectly!  Super comfortable and go with everything.  I think it's just fabulous that they look like a Gladiator sandal but not as overwhelming and adorned. 

6) Most worn accessory

I found a bunch of super cute accessories this summer, but my fav would have to be this Owl ring by Minicci.  I believe it was around $10 but looks like it's worth so much more!  I love the stretch band feature and the colours in the owl went well with my "bronze goddess" look this summer.  Not ready to put him away just yet ;-)

7) Most worn clothing item

Apart from the usual uniform of jean shorts, slouchy tee and Bob's, this dress from Old Navy got worn A LOT!  I could dress it up with a belt, heels and some bangles or dress it down with a pair of sandals and nude make-up.  Needless to say, I love this dress.  I purchased it for around $30 and have definitely got my money's worth!  I am a big fan of fabric and this felt just so comfortable and soft.  The tie-waist accent lent a very slimming silhouette, and who doesn't LOVE that!

8) Most worn foundation

Although I did test out quite a few new foundations and powders this summer, I have to say my favourite is still the Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Foundation/Concealer/Primer/Sunscreen.  I usually order mine from The Shopping Channel so I get a bunch of other products included for the same price!  I wear the colour tan and it looks amazing.  Super quick and easy to put on, your skin looks flawless and airbrushed in a matter of minutes.  The fact that it acts as a 4-in-1 really saves a lot of time as well.  However, the thing I LOVE MOST about this product is that it feels like you have nothing on!  Who doesn't hate going outside into the blazing hot sun with a foundation mask slowly making it's way south!?  Not me!  Great for your skin, you can practically sleep in this stuff!  But don't ;-)

9) Most worn blush/bronzer

For anyone that hasn't tried The Balm Cosmetics, you don't know what you are missing!  Yes, their products are on the more pricey side, but they are AMAZING (said in a singy cheery voice).  Aside from the adorable retro packaging, the colour payoff on all their products is fantastic.  I bought my Bahama Mama bronzer just a few weeks ago and am obsessed with it.  It really does make you look like you just got back from vacationing peacefully in the Bahamas for 2 weeks, no lie!  It is a very matte bronzer, which I prefer, and use it as a contour and bronzer (depending on the look of the day).  I picked it up from London Drugs for around $20.

 

 

10) Most worn lip product

 

If it weren't for my addiction to YouTube and one of my beautiful beauty guru's, Casey (itsbl0ndie), I would have never found this summer fav.  I have to confess, I haven't purchased a lipstick from Revlon since I was about 16 (I think the colour was Toast of New York-some of you may remember that one, lol) But gosh have I been missing out!  This colour is super moisturising and just the perfect soft nude.  It doesn't make you look all ghostly like some nudes tend to do.  I picked it up from Walmart for under $10 and if it wasn't the last one I would have bought at least 2 more!  Totally recommend this one.

 

 

 

 

 

11) Most worn mascara

A girl can never have too many mascara's, but lately I have only been using this one!  It's the Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara.  I was a little concerned about the flexible wand, as I usually like to be able to control the pressure, but I had no problem reaching every single lash.  It is a gel mousse formula which leaves your lashes soft and ultra lush, not sticky and spiky like some of its counterparts!  Really affordable, I picked this up at Shopper's Drug Mart for around $7.

 

 

 

 

12) Most worn eyeshadow

Just one word: NAKED!  Urban Decay's NAKED palettes finally made their way into my make-up collection this summer.  Long overdue if you ask me!  Everything from the packaging, to the selection of colours, to the pigmentation and longevity, these pallettes are a MUST for any make-up lover.  My favourite most worn colour is probably the colour Buck from the NAKED 1 palette.  It's a matte medium brown and just STUNNING!  You can purchase these at Sephora or off E-Bay (like me) for around $40 each.  Worth every penny and then some!

 

 

Thanks for reading my Summer Favs!  It was a lot of fun to write about and I look forward to recording my first YouTube video in the coming days on this blog.  Please don't forget to comment as well as Like my facebook page www.facebook.com/50ShadesOfFabulous.

 

Tiffany xo

50 Shades of Fabulous