how to create loose curls

just found this little tutorial via mandy's blog and i. am. stoked. my go to hairstyle for the past year has been the top knot and as much as i love the ease and quickness...it's getting boring. i've always wanted to achieve those beautiful bouncy waves but i haven't known how. i'll be testing this out today and i'll be back with results!

the ombre glitter manicure

after receiving the glitter guide email for this post the other day, i was determined to attempt the diy ombre glitter manicure. one coat of opi ridge filler, two types of wet-n-wild glitter polish and a clear top coat later...ummm...i'm obsessed. i highly recommend you try it out.

waterfall braid

i am soooo all about braided hairstyles and this "waterfall braid" is one i have yet to try. love.

image via: pinterest

the beauty department

i don't know how i've j u s t come across this incredible style blog by lauren conrad, amy nadine and kristin ess. i am bursting with excitement because in my opinion...any tip from miss lc is golden (her style book is practically my personal bible). go check out the beauty department for more great tutorials like this one.

infatuated.

via: hair romance

braids + waves

really loving this effortless hairstyle from the always chic emily of cupcakes and cashmere. so summery...

sunday morning

good morning lovelies, hope you're all having a wonderful weekend! today i'm working on recovering from an icky bug i caught during the week, but i have my first wedding design consultation this morning (e x c i t i n g!) then jason and i plan to do a bit of gardening in the afternoon (we bought peonies, ranunculus, a rose bush and veggies!!!!!!) dinner at dim sum charlie's and then i'll be relaxing and enjoying the golden globes all evening.

later on this week i have a diy project to share from the new apartment but in the meantime i found this super fun nail tutorial that i'm dying to try...what do you think??

opi axxium

so i just heard about this new opi axxium gel manicure and i am incredibly intruiged. a manicure that stays on for weeks (?!) without chipping or loosing its beautiful shine?! count me in - anyone know of a salon in the bay area offering this service?

[image via: opi]