Stay Warm Without Sacrificing Style

Written By: Shannon Boyce

Layering is a fashion essential. Not only is this a fall and winter runway trend year after year, but it is the most practical way to deal with the changing temperatures. You know how it goes. One day it feels nice and warm, and the next, it is windy and rainy. That is just how this time of year is: totally unpredictable! To keep your style fresh and fabulous this season, you'll need a solid plan of action. Not to worry. These tips will help you stay warm without sacrificing style.

Quick and Cute Nail Ideas

Written By: Shannon Boyce

Some times of year are busier than others. Currently, life is getting crazier and crazier as the weeks roll by. There are family gatherings, responsibilities at home, and of course, the holidays. It is becoming harder and harder to find downtime. That doesn't mean you need to sacrifice the little things that make you smile. Like gorgeous nails, for instance! It is possible to speed up your nail routines and get your polish to last longer. Stop worrying about time this season. Try out some of these quick and cute nail ideas.

How To Incorporate Your Favorite Color Into Your Winter Wardrobe

Written By: Hope Jennings

The cold months tend to zap us of any inspiration to wear bold, beautiful, colorful pieces, and suddenly we find ourselves in head-to-toe black, brown, and navy that can't classify as anything other than "neutral." While those shades certainly have their place in our wardrobes, there is such as thing as too much of a good thing.

Unfortunately, if you don't feel like a million bucks, you will dress that way too. The reverse is also true. If you walk around in black all the time, eventually you'll start to feel black on the inside. While it might be okay for a short time, after a while it just becomes depressing. Clothes, in my opinion, are supposed to make you feel better about yourself!

Well, I'm here to help. Inspired by our own affinity for wearing far too many neutrals in the winter, here are some of my tips on how to inject color into your winter wardrobe this year.

Bracelets For A Cause

Written By: Deanna

Today, I have to be honest with you, I have a bit of a short post. But it's something that is very important to me. We all love snagging a good deal, right? But there is something else that is also very important - helping the community. Today, you can do both.

5 Outfits That Prove Frugal Shopping Is Awesome

Written By: Deanna

Recently on my blog, I've started a weekly feature called Frugal Fashion Friday where I share an outfit that is cheap. The goal: Under $30, which can be the price of a top at most store in the mall! I won't lie, sometimes I don't quite make it, other times, I'm way over - but that doesn't mean I'm not scoring good deals for awesome outfits. Today, I wanted to share some of them with you.

Shirt: $6

Pants: $9

Shoes: $8

Purse: $4

Necklace: $4

Perfect for a lunch date with friends and family, or a dressed up BBQ during the summer. I'm a huge believer that if you pair anything with pearls; you're on your way to a good outfit!

This came out at $31 for everything you see in the picture. I'd say that's a pretty good deal, even more so when you take into account the fact that some of these items are old. But I gotta admit, I got lucky by finding such cute shoes!

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Flats: $14

Purse: $5

As you can tell, I got a little lucky on this outfit too - I got the shirt for free from someone who was getting rid of bags of clothes. I didn't think it was quite my style, but I decided to keep it still, after all it was a free tank top I could at least wear it to bed, but as it turns out, I adore this shirt!

The shoes were brand new and are super comfy.

The whole outfit came out at a total of $25 and that includes the adorable purse that I am in love with - everyone who seeks it asks me where I managed to snag it! They are always so disappointed when I tell them it was a thrift store find!

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Shirt: $5

Shorts: $3

Purse: $10

Shoes: $14

This shirt and the shoes are from La Chatue, which is a huge love of mine, though I got the shirt, shorts, and purse from a thrift store. The purse is a Vera Wang.

This outfit comes out at about $32 for everything, including the shoes and the purse. Not too bad, eh?

I've got to admit, this is one of my favorite outfits that I own. Perfect for the summer weather, which I have been enjoying as much as I can this year!

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Jacket: $5

Shirt: $3

Jeans: $9

Shoes: $11

For everything in this outfit, I paid a total of $28 and that was over some time. The shirt featured here I've had for almost 3 years. I would say that it's a pretty good deal, wouldn't you?

And can we please just take a second to look at those shoes?

Of course, they're not the brand of shoes we all think of when we see red soles, but they're freakin' adorable and I absolutely love them to death, so that's all that matters when it comes down to it!

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Shirt: $4 at Value Village

Jeans: $10 at Value Village

Shoes: $50

Sunglasses: $5 at Ardens (during a 3 for $15 sale)

Bracelet: $2 on Ebay

So, truth be told I failed this one when it came to my challenge on my own blog. My goal was to create an outfit for under $30. The boots alone are $50. Epic fail, but you know what? These boots are good quality winter/fall boots and are normally $150 - in the long run, I lucked out when I got them for $50, so I'll take that as a victory.

There you have it. My goal is to create affordable outfits that are adorable, so I can prove to people that you don't need to spend a lot. I have new updates (and even info on sales) every week. So, if you'd like to keep updated on that click here. But even if you don't click the link, I'll be bringing On Your Mark more updates on my fashion challenge!

Beat The Heat!

Written By: Hope Jennings

These pro tips will keep your hair and skin looking radiant this summer.

Ukraine Beauty Tips from Estheticians To The Stars

Written By: Deanna

 So, recently I've been reading this book that I'm kinda in love with. That book is: Babushka's Beauty Secrets: Old World Tips for a Glamorous New You.

Have you ever read it? If not, you're probably missing out, if beauty on a budget is your kinda thing. The whole idea behind it is, well... let me just insert this blurb:

"Esthetician to the stars Raisa Ruder learned her time-tested beauty techniques from her Ukrainian grandmother (or babushka, as they say in the old country). Now everyone can discover the all-natural, better-than-botox secrets the Hollywood stars use to shine on the red carpet! Ruder reveals her sought-after beauty recipes that can fight wrinkles, plump lips, and eliminate crow's feet and acne, using inexpensive, everyday grocery items like eggs, honey, vegetable oil and strawberries (and a splash of vodka for freshness!). At last, by popular demand, Raisa Ruder opens up her babushka's secret pantry and shares her most amazing and effective beauty advice."

What's In My Makeup Bag?

Written By: Shannon Boyce

My makeup collection is... extensive. I have drawers upon drawers of eyeshadows, palettes, lipsticks, and blush shades. By my own confession, I am a bit of a makeup addict. I love creating different makeup looks to suit my mood. Feeling romantic? Brown eyeliner and a soft lilac eyeshadow shade is all you need. Want to go bolder? False lashes and a vibrant pop of colour. Sultry? A smokey eye that is anything but ordinary. That is the amazing thing about makeup. It can be whatever we want it to be.

Despite my massive collection of beauty products? My on-the-go routine is pretty simple. I rarely touch up my face during the day. That's right. I am a set-it-and-forget-it kind of girl. So, the items that are in my makeup bag tend to be pretty minimal. Want to take a peek at my essential items? Here they are...

What's In My Makeup Bag?

Okay, so I have about a zillion make up bags - and way too much makeup, to be honest! But for the purpose of this post, I'll just share the makeup that I use the most!

FYI, I'm not a makeup expert at all! Because of that, I usually opt for more affordable makeup - and most days, my makeup is very basic. But here's what's in my everyday makeup bag:

What's In Deanna's Makeup Bag?

Recently, I've been asked what is in my makeup bag. I have to admit, that's a tough one, because the truth is, I don't have much in there these days.

This is the mascara I use, and I have to admit - I picked it up only because it was on sale for $3. I mean, I couldn't say no to that! One more thing I gotta admin: I actually really like it. I'd probably buy more Essence stuff if I ever had the chance. So, uh, when my makeup supply needs restocking.

I have to admit, the rest of my makeup is dominated by Annabelle products. From my research, they are cruelty free and that is very important to me. So...

I own about six different ones, because I bought them all while they were on sale for a good price, but the truth is, these retail at $4 a piece anyways, and they smell amazing. So, I stocked up.

I also own an actual gloss from them, which I got while it was on sale as well. And (shocking), I use their eyeliner.

See, the thing about Annabelle, and I know it's going to sound like I'm endorsing them, but I'm not.. is that, I actually liked their products before I realized they were cruelty free. That is just the icing on the cake for me. Oh, and they are cheap. Like, we're talking cheap for a drug store brand.

Day 40 & 41 ~ Clothes, Groceries & Meal Prep! Plus Some Exciting News!

Day 39 - Friday (additional)...

Friday evening, I received a phone call from a local employment agency informing me that I was completely qualified for a job only 15 minutes away from me. After years of being either over-qualified or under-qualified... I started crying. While it isn't my dream job, it is a foot in the work force and I can continue applying myself for my dream job. What blew me away is that I am perfectly qualified for a job in the medical field...a field I wasn't even aiming for. I saw an employment ad and applied for it, honestly believing I wasn't going to get it (like every other job) and I got it.

I wish I had a camera on me when I received the call, as I was in tears (without sounding like I was crying on the phone). While it is only a temporary to permanent position, this will open soooo many doors to the future. While the hours aren't great, I will be off on the weekend to spend quality time with little man. The pay is great, we (Mark and I) will be able to soon call ourselves debt free, as well as have some money in our savings.

Snag The 90's Look In 4 Simple Steps

Written By: Shannon Boyce

Feel like getting trendy? How about stepping back in time? There is something undeniably exciting about the resurgence of 1990's fashion. Suddenly we are seeing old-school designs come back in vogue. Everything that had been forgotten (like exaggerated lip liner and ultra distressed jeans) is back and bigger than ever. If you are ready to embrace the trend, then keep reading. These tips will help you snag a fabulous 90's inspired look.

Shoes That Change As Often As You Want

Let's talk about these shoes, okay? So, I stumbled across them - and they look pretty normal. Sure, they are cute, but nothing shocking, right? Wrong.

Two Shots for Health and Beauty

There are always reports on the latest and greatest new miracle cure for a variety of ailments. It gets confusing and overwhelming trying to figure out what really works and what doesn't. And let's face it - most these things cost money and many of use are on a budget.

I admit, I am one of those who often falls for these various claims and will try almost everything from the hottest weight loss gimmick to ugusisu no fun (which is a fancy way to say bird poop facial). Over the years, I've tried so many things that I have lost count. I don't even want to think about the money I have invested. Some of these things work, some don't. Yet, when I find something that really works, there is nothing I love more than sharing it with others.

What To Wear To An Outdoor Concert

Written By: Shannon Boyce

Some concert venues are better than others. The summer months mean there are many new and exciting places to check out a show. Like outdoor theatres, festival stages, and even the beach. Live music can happen just about anywhere! Recently, I was able to see a Duran Duran concert at a massive outdoor amphitheatre. It was incredible to watch the sun set as the evening went on. The only downside? The weather shifted from blisteringly hot to cool and breezy. My perfectly selected outfit was less than ideal by the time the opening acts walked off stage. Don't let it happen to you. This guide will help you look great and be comfortable at your next outdoor concert.

Beauty Boxes You Should Try

Written By: Deanna

Do you order subscription boxes? I know I'm not the only one who guest blogs here at On Your Mark who does! Today, I thought I would do a post with some of the coolest boxes I've seen recently.

Pretty Girl Box is for teens and young adults. Pretty Girl Box comes in three variations... classic, edgy, and sassy. This is a monthly subscription for only $25. A typical box can contain anything girly, but usually makeup, bath and body care, and an accessory.

3 Variations (Classic, Edgy, or Sassy)

5-8 products each month

Nice sized products.

Free shipping. Alright, right now you can get 15% off. Clicky for details.

MACs Trolls Makeup Collection

Have you heard about MAC's newest collection? Can you guess by the picture what it is?

My 5 Favorite Beauty Books

Written By: Deanna

I have been in love with this book since I first set eyes on it, which was a couple years ago. There are very few books I actually go out and buy after reading them from the library - this was one.

I have to admit, it's not filled with ground breaking, earth shattering ideas, but it is a light read and it focuses on beauty from around the world. I love that. I've always loved the idea of knowing beauty secrets from around the world.

Doesn't that sound amazing to you?

Well, now you have your chance!

I'm praying to the beauty gods that a "part two" comes out eventually, but in the meantime, check this out!

I Just Got A Harry Potter Sweater For $1, Well... Sorta.

Written By:

Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it kinda is, but I did get a Harry Potter sweater for $1, I swear!

30 Simple Hair Care Tips

Written By: Deanna

1) Use good products. I don't care what the product is for or how much it costs, just make sure it is going to be good for you, your hair type and whatever it is supposed to do.

2) Same goes for tools. A good brush, bobby pins (and other clips), sleeping cap (if you're into that) and anything else you use. Again, I'm not saying it has to be the most expensive thing out there and I'm not going to tell you what to get because it's not going to be the same for everyone.