Fall is such an exciting time. There's something about the start of a new season that makes me feel like I can conquer anything. I'm definitely more motivated and eager to try new things. Can anyone else relate?  From a new fashion or makeup trend, to the latest workout craze or album I've been listening to, when it comes to trying out something new during the season it could literally be anything.

While I've been adding a few newbies into my life and turning back to my trustee fall favorites (I'm looking at you plaid scarves and pumpkin chocolate chip muffins) I've rounded up some of my favorite things I've been dying to share with you.

Suede Skirts

I got this suede skirt from Anthropolgie about a month ago, and I've worn it about once a week since then. This piece has been such a fall staple for me. I love pairing this skirt with my ankle booties or riding boots. I've found that this skirt instantly makes the most basic of shirts look put together, and who wouldn't want a piece that can do that?!

Leaf Inspired Eyeshadow

I recently revisited my Minnie Mouse palette by Sephora after not using it for a while, and let me tell you, this palette has SO many fall inspired hues in it. I was instantly drawn to the copper, burgundy and gold shades which inspired me to create a fall leaf inspired eyeshadow look. When I have the time to do an in-depth eyeshadow look, you bet this has been my go-to.

Yoga

After breaking my toe a few months ago and having it take way longer to heal than expected, I'm finally back into exercising and I could not be happier. I recently did a free week of classes at Core Power Yoga and it made me fall in love with this type of exercise. Yoga is something I definitely want to continue to practice and get better at.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins 

When the fall season rolls around, one thing I absolutely need in my life are pumpkin chocolate chip muffins. My absolute favorite pumpkin muffins are from Wegmans, but unfortunately there aren't any Wegmans' in New York. I know, so so sad. Since fall is all about baking, I decided to bake my own! However, I was super lucky because my good friend Shannon mailed me THREE boxes of my most favorite muffins and it honestly completed my entire season.

Carrie Underwood's Cry Pretty and Lauren Daigle's Look Up Child

These two ladies in music recently each dropped a new album within the past couple of months and let me tell you, it has made my commute to work, or basically anywhere I need to hop on the train 100X better. Both artists have such powerful voices and they're music is so inspiring. If you haven't already given their albums a  listen, it is totally worth it.

Pumpkin Clove Candle 

A few weeks ago, I bought a pumpkin clove candle from Anthropologie and it literally smells like fall in a jar. It smells so so good. If you're into delicious fall scents, then do yourself a favor and buy this candle.

What have been some of your favorite fall things? Let me know in the comments below or tweet me @CaitlinRedd13

Kat Von D Lock-It Foundation & Concealer Review

Wow! It's definitely been a little while since I did a review. However, thanks to Influenster I'm finally back with another one.

If you're not familiar with Influenster, it's an app/website where you receive free product in exchange for reviews--seriously, how cool is that?! Once you sign up, you say what your interests are (i.e. beauty, fashion), answer a few demographic questions, and then you let the reviewing begin! Based on your answers to the questions and the interests you select, Influenster matches you with campaigns. If you're a good fit they'll send you a VoxBox (can be one or multiple products) and then after testing out your new goodies, you'll hop on to Influenster and social media to let your friends know what you thought about the products.

A couple weeks ago, I received the Kat Von D Lock-It foundation and concealer. I have to admit, being the beauty fanatic that I am, you'd think I do a full-face of makeup everyday, but in reality that is not that case at all. I rarely wear foundation. I know, please don't send me to beauty jail.
After receiving this combo, I was super excited to see how it would hold up throughout the day.

FOUNDATION

Color Match: I couldn't be happier with how well this foundation matched my skin tone. Since I obviously didn't test out the product before receiving it, I was a little worried if the shade would be a good match, but it most definitely was! I received this in the shade 44, which is formulated for light skin with a cool undertone.

Application + Finish: If not wearing foundation on the reg didn't send me to beauty jail this may be the deal breaker: I applied this with my hands. I know I know I know, a dense foundation brush or beauty blender would be ideal, but I didn't have either available at the time, so hands it was!

Using my hands to apply the foundation actually worked very well (if you do this, make wash your hands before, nobody wants unwanted acne). I was amazed with how well and seamless the formula blended into my skin. It is medium-full coverage foundation that is buildable with a matte finish. After applying the foundation my skin looked flawless and completely shine-free. I set the foundation with Bare Mineral's Mineral Veil loose powder. This is a great base to the start of any makeup look.

Feel: There is nothing I hate more than wearing a foundation that feels heavy, like it's clogging my pores more and more the longer I wear it. Luckily the Lock-It foundation didn't give me this gross feeling. It was light-weight--I even forgot I had it on throughout the day.

Wear: The Lock-It foundation claims to be a long-wear foundation that will last 24 hours without any touch ups, and let me tell you, that's definitely not a lie. I wore this foundation all day, which included a full 8-hour work day. When I got home at 9pm my foundation looked like I just applied it.

PRO TIP: Apply a primer first for the longest wear and smoothest application.


CONCEALER

Color Match: I received this product in the shade 5, which is formulated for light skin with a neutral undertone. The color matched my skin 100 percent, which was perfect for covering up blemishes, but I mainly use concealer to hide those dark circles we all know and despise. When doing that, I like to use a slightly lighter shade to brighten up the under-eye area, so I can't say this is a concealer I would use every single day.

Application + Finish: I absolutely love the applicator! It's a fairly large-sized doe foot applicator. It contours my eye shape perfectly, which makes applying the product very easy. To blend concealer, I  always use my ring finger. I've found this is actually the easiest and most precise way to do so!  Compared to the Maybelline Fit Me concealer that I usually use, this formula is a little more difficult to blend completely--definitely not ideal if you're in a rush to do your makeup.

Feel: The feel of this concealer was great! It is light weight and doesn't feel oily or greasy.

Wear: After I applied the concealer on one eye and moved on to my other one, I was extremely surprised that my first eye had already begun to crease. Since this doesn't happen with my drugstore concealer, I definitely wasn't expecting it to happen with a high end one. After I used Mineral Veil powder to set my face, I didn't have any other creasing problems throughout the day--thank goodness!

Overall, I loved the Lock-It foundation and would totally recommend it to anyone on the hunt for a matte, natural looking foundation that that is light-weight and lasts all day. Wow! That's a mouth full, but I promise the foundation lives up to all of those words. For the Lock-It concealer, I honestly wouldn't recommend it. I was expecting more from a high end formula, and I found that it didn't perform any better than a drugstore product. You could definitely find a concealer that works just as well, if not better for a fraction of the cost at Target.

Below you can take a look to see how the foundation an concealer looks once it's applied and incorporated into an entire makeup look.

Have you tried the Kat Von D Lock-It foundation or concealer? If you have, I'd love to know what you thought! Share your thoughts down below in the comments, or tweet me @CaitlinRedd13 to chat all things beauty.

The Importance of Self Care and How to Practice It

When you think of self-care, yoga, green smoothies, and meditation may come to mind, but those things might not work for everybody and that's perfectly okay! The most important thing is to make sure you're doing something that you love and will stick to. This could be anything from watching your favorite movie to hanging out with friends, or pampering yourself with a face mask.

If you're not sure what self-care practices are best for you, check out my list below to get a few ideas. Who knows--you might just find your brand new routine.

Ways to Practice Self Care

1. Read

2. Take a bath
3. Watch your favorite TV show (Friends is the best)
4. Watch your favorite movie
5. Hangout with your friends
6. Take yourself on a date. Go out to lunch or grab coffee!
7. Bake a treat
8. Have an at-home spa day
9. Get your nails done
10. Do a face mask
11. Exercise
12. Fuel your body with healthy food
13. Go to a workout class
14. Go for a run
15. Go on a bike ride
16. Do some yoga
17. Meditate
18. Stretch
19. Unfollow social media accounts that don't make you happy
20. Take the time to try out a new hair style
21. Light a scented candle or turn on a diffuser
22. Write down 5 things you love about yourself
23. Do your makeup
24. Listen to a playlist that makes you happy

Like any new activity, practicing self-care takes time for it to turn into a habit. If you regularly incorporate any of the ideas above, I'm sure you'll start to feel more relaxed, happy, and overall in a better mindset. The goal should be to find a self-care activity that you look forward to and helps you relax. Are you using any of these 24 ways to practice self-care, or is there one you're going to try? Let me know in the comments below or tweet me @CaitlinRedd13 to share how you make time for yourself.
                                                         

Best Dressed At The 2018 Teen Choice Awards

The Teen Choice Awards may be summer's--actually the entire year's--most playful award show of the year. I mean, what other award show can you get away with wearing plastic fruit on your skirt?! As some of Hollywood's and YouTube's hottest stars strutted down the pink, yes PINK carpet, I couldn't help but think yas queen, or in KJ Apa's case, king.

From head-to-toe sequins to a ballet pink tea length dress, there was no shortage of Instagram worthy ensembles. Wondering who served looks at this year's TCA's? Below you'll find the best dressed celebs of the night.

Camila Mendes

This trendy blush hue is my absolute favorite, especially for summer! 

 Cozi Zuehlsdorf

You can never go wrong with a tea length dress like this. I love the classic silhouette!

Elias Harger

 He may be small, but Elias sure know how to pull off a dapper look. 

KJ Apa

Honestly, I've never been one to pay super close attention to what the guys are wearing on the carpet, but this look caught my eye. Matching sets for men? I approve! 

Lili Reinhart

It's the TCA's, you're walking on a pink carpet, so why not go all out? That's just what Lili did with this hot pink look and I am 100 percent here for it. 

Madelaine Petsch

Sweet meets sexy? The shoes definitely pull this look together, but I'm sure you're not surprised that I'm a fan of the lace and floral combo. 

Meghan Trainor

Pajamas are the ultimate way to pull off the whole effortless-cool-girl vibe. It looks like the trendy sleepwear made it's way on to the pink carpet, but not without a touch of glamour. I mean, sequins do make everything better after all. 

 Olivia Holt

I really love this look! The emerald green is stunning and the silhouette is very flattering on Miss Holt, but I think this look would be better suited for the winter time. 

Maddie Ziegler

 It looks like Maddie has shed that Dance Moms image. The young starlet showed off a more mature side of her style with this matching cropped set. 

 Sabrina Carpenter

I'm not the biggest fan of this print, but the lilac hue pops against Sabrina's hair and skin--it looks like the "Almost Love" singer may have found her "it" color. Oh, the fringed hemline is such a unique touch that I'm loving. But lets not overlook the hair! Sabrina ditched her signature long locks for a shorter do falling just below her collar bone. Talk about #hairgoals. 

What were some of your favorite looks from the night? Let me know in the comments below!

8 Ways to Live a Happier Life

I'm going to be completely honest: Being happy is hard. This is something I've been struggling with a lot lately. With my life in New York not going quite as planned, I've found myself in a bit of a rut. But hey, it happens to everyone. Let's just say, I have quickly realized, life can't always be as happy as Disney World.

Road blocks pop up on our path to success, but you can't let that dictate your happiness. Everyone deals with various hardships and struggles differently, but if I've learned anything since I moved, it is: The key to controlling your happiness is deciding the outcome. That's right, with just a few small changes, you'll be on your way to living a life full of happiness!

While some days are definitely harder than others, I have complied a list of eight things I do to maintain a happy life.

via sweetlytextmessages.com

1. Start A New Hobby

Remember that scrapbook you started years ago, or that musical instrument you've always wanted to learn? Now is the time! Having an outlet to channel your energy into something that makes you happy and you truly enjoy is one of the best things you can do for yourself. For me it's playing guitar, reading, running this blog, and exercising!


2. Exercise

This could be anything from walking the extra 20 minutes instead of taking the train to riding a bike to doing an at home workout. Actively moving your body releases endorphins, which are proven to make you happy. Plus, it's a great way to let off some steam. Say goodbye to stress and negative vibes!

3. Fuel Your Body

Ever since I started paying attention to what food I'm putting into my body I've noticed a huge difference in how I feel. I have more energy, I'm in a better mood, and I feel confident in my skin. You know that little phrase, "food is fuel?" Yeah, I 100 percent swear by that. To start fueling your body, simply swap snacks like chips, candy, and movie theater popcorn for healthier alternatives like carrots and hummus, grapes, or homemade popcorn. Taking the time to nourish your body with good for you food takes practice, but trust me, you will thank yourself later.

4. Stop Comparing Yourself To Other

Oh where to begin. We've all been down the dark Instagram rabbit hole where we find ourselves scrolling and scrolling...and scrolling some more, wishing we could have picture perfect lives and look like our favorite model or celebrity. The moment you stop comparing yourself to other people I promise you will instantly be happier. God created everyone for a special purpose--you'll miss out on your chance to find yours if you're trying to be like somebody else.

5. Get A Good Nights Sleep

Nothing is worse than waking up and instantly wishing you could crawl right back into your cozy bed. Making an effort to go to bed even just 30 minutes earlier than normal can make such a huge difference in your rest. Oh, and try to stay off all electronics at least 30 minutes before your plan to go to bed. With these two tricks, you'll find yourself waking up on the right side of the bed more often, but don't worry, I'm still working on this one too.

6. Practice Self-Care

Self-care is such a broad term in the wellness world, and when it comes down to it, the term can mean something slightly different for everyone. The important thing is to make sure you're taking the time out of your hectic life to take care of your body and treat yourself. This could be anything from taking a bath or trying out a new face mask, to a wine and movie night with your girls. Find a way to unwind and don't let yourself get burnt out!

7. Turn Every Negative Thought into a Positive Thought

This is something I have been struggling with daily, so I'm right here with you when it comes to practicing positivity. When life just doesn't seem to be going your way, it can be extremely easy to get sucked into a downward spiral of negative thoughts that ultimately consumes your entire happiness. One way I've tried to combat this is to think of one positive out come for any negative thing that happens to me. For example, I broke my foot in the beginning of June and it's still healing. Since I'm not able to be as active as I am used to, I can to put all of my energy into my writing and grow in that area of my life as much as I can. A less extreme scenario: You get stuck in a downpour on your way to work. You can either let this ruin your whole day, or brush it off and think, "my clothes will dry, braids were invented for a reason, but I'm thankful to have a place I can go to to get out of the rain." Doing this will really change your perspective on life, and who doesn't want to live the happiest life possible?

8. Practice Mindfulness

The idea of mindfulness is being aware of your thoughts and understanding why you are feeling the way you do. One way I practice mindfulness is through meditation. I started this about four months ago as a way to cope with anxiety and worry I was feeling--it has truly helped me so much. I'll admit, meditating can feel a little awkward at first, but the more you practice, you'll see overtime how it can have a huge impact on your mental health and mood. Plus, all you need it just five minutes out of your day. Two of my favorite apps I use are Headspace and Insight Timer which are both free!

What are some of your favorite ways you stay happy? Share in the comments below or tweet me @CaitlinRedd13.

Feeling Fine and Dapper in Floral

Spring Dapper Day at Disney World was at the end of April and yes, it has taken me this long to finally write this post about it.

When Dapper Day happened at Disney World, my friends were actually in town visiting and we already had plans to visit Epcot and Magic Kingdom. The thing is, our days were reversed compared to the days Dapper Day was being celebrated. But, there was no way I was going to let that stop me from showing off my fanciest frock in the Happiest Place on Earth.

The dress I chose to wear is a floral print prom dress from the 1980's! I got this dress while I was interning for a vintage boutique in college. I love the turquoise and pink floral print, and if you couldn't tell by now, I'm a big fan of the A-line silhouette.

The first time I attended this special day was last fall and I decided to DisneyBound as the one and only Minnie Mouse (the most dapper character I must say). This time around, I wanted to focus on the vintage aspect of Dapper Day instead of DisneyBounding as a particular character.

When I first heard about Dapper Day and learned what it was, I knew I wanted to wear this dress to the event someday, and I'm so glad I was able to this year!

I would love to hear your Dapper Day stories and see your looks from the event! Head over to my Instagram or Twitter to share! 

Sweet Potato Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

I love nourishing my body will healthy food, but I also love to indulge in my fair share of sweets--hello sweet tooth! Since I can't eat dairy, I stick to vegan desserts whenever possible, but even though it's vegan doesn't mean it's always healthy. Anytime I find a way to make healthier versions of cookies, brownies, or cupcakes, I'm completely on board.

I found this sweet potato oatmeal chocolate chip cookie recipe on The Healthy Haff and absolutely had to try it. I know, sweet potato in a cookie? Sounds a little strange, right? It's actually so good, and you can't even taste it. The sweet potato adds extra vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber that you most likely wouldn't get in a regular cookie.

These cookies are honestly my favorite treats I have ever baked. They're packed with good-for-you ingredients and guilt-free--if that's not the best of both worlds than I don't know what is. Let's get to baking!

Directions:

1. Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl

2. Mix all wet ingredients in a bowl

3. Yep, you guessed it! Combine wet and dry ingredients in one bowl

4. Roll dough into balls then slightly flatten

5. At 375 degrees, bake cookies for 15-17 minutes then let cool

6. Enjoy your healthy cookie because yes, it is possible!

If you make these cookies, let me know in the comments below or tweet me @CatlinRedd13. I'd love to hear what you thought!