Middle of Somewhere

February 8, 2017

Winter Beauty Must Haves

New Mexico is pretty much dry all year long, but the winters always seem to take an extra toll on my skin. My lips get chapped much more often and I find myself struggling with dry skin even more than usual. After living here for the majority of my life, I feel like I have finally found a solid set of both makeup and skincare products that my sensitive skin is tolerant of and that helps combat the extra dry climate that I have to endure in the winter. Also, you know I’m all about affordable products, so almost everything I am talking about today is under $40 (and most is under $20).

Must Have Makeup Products:

It Cosmetics CC+ Cream – This product is completely life changing for me! You may know that I struggle big time with sensitive skin and acne. I finally gave in and tried this CC+ cream over the holidays and I absolutely couldn’t believe the amazing coverage it provides. It goes on so smoothly and a little bit goes a long way! It masks any redness or discoloration on my face and actually lasts all day. If you’re looking for a foundation that provides full coverage and is super lightweight, this is it!

It Cosmetics Superhero Mascara – I spent a lot of time wondering if this mascara was worth the hype and the $24 it cost, and trust me, it totally is! If you aren’t wanting to splurge on this mascara, another favorite of mine is the NYX Double Stacked Mascara ($14.99).Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette – This is actually the first and only Naked palette I have tried and it is seriously amazing! It’s perfect for creating a variety of looks, from a simple every day eye to a nice smoky eye. The shadows themselves go on very smoothly and I’ve never had a problem with creasing. I use the MAC Paint Pot in Bare Study as a base.

Bare Minerals Correcting Concealer – Similar to the It Cosmetics CC+ Cream, I have absolutely fell in love with this concealer. The coverage is buildable and it is very moisturizing, which is perfect for our dry winter.

e.l.f. Cosmetics Blush Palette – I recently received this palette thanks to e.l.f. and have used it every day! For only $6 you can create so many different looks, and I really love the subtle shades in this palette. I love to wear brighter blush in the spring and summer, but love a more muted look in the colder months.

Must Have Skincare Products:

Clarisonic Mia 2 Cleansing System – I’ve had my Clarisonic for years and still love it. There is a reason why pretty much everyone who has ever tried it raves about it – it is really that good! My face always feels so much cleaner after using it. I personally find that my skin goes a little crazy if I use it daily, so I try to only use my Clarisonic 2-3 times a week. I usually use it with the Clinique cleansing bar.

Burt’s Bees Superfruit Lip Balms – I always have at least two of these in my bag at any given time. I’m not really a big chapstick fan because I feel like it dries my lips out (weird, I know), but the Burt’s Bees lip balms are super moisturizing!

100% Pure Organic Hyaluronic Acid Serum – I first heard about hyaluronic acid from the always amazing Meg from Meg O. on the Go and was really intrigued. It’s so affordable on Amazon (around $10!), so I figured I’d give it a try. That was about 6 months ago and I’ve gone through quite a few bottles.

Amara Organics Retinol Cream – I’ve been amazed by how many great beauty and skincare products I have been able to find on Amazon. If you’re like me, you’re all about the Prime! I bought this retinol cream on a whim and have never looked back. I use it at night and find it to be really hydrating. I have also noticed a significant decrease in fine lines!

Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Eye Cream – I’m not even kidding when I say that I have actually noticed a decrease in the fine lines around my eyes since I’ve been using this eye cream. I’ve used other eye creams in the past and felt like I was totally wasting my money because they didn’t seem to be doing anything. A lot of the eye creams I’ve used have also come with a pretty hefty price tag and were certainly not worth the money. This hyaluronic acid eye cream is amazing and is less that $14!

Alba Botanica Even Advanced Deep Sea Mask – I originally found this mask on a random Target trip and instantly fell in love. I have always struggled to find a mask that was helpful and didn’t cause a major break out, and this one does the trick! It smells amazing too and leaves my face super soft after only leaving it on for about 10 minutes.

February 3, 2017

Easy Valentine’s Day Outfit & The Weekly Style Edit Link Up

valentines day outfit #valentinesday #valentinesoutfit

The first Friday in February (say that 5 times fast!)… it’s freaking me out just a little bit. Not to sound overdramatic, but I feel like it’s going to be summer before we know it. We actually had a little glimpse at warmer weather this week and it was glorious! I got away with wearing this outfit without a jacket and I loved every minute of it!

You may remember this sweatshirt from my Valentine’s gift guide under $50. Even though I just got it, I pretty much plan to wear it non-stop for the next few weeks. You know I’m Old Navy obsessed, so it should be no surprise that I want this sweatshirt in every color and print! For $22, how could you pass it up? It’s never to early to start outfit planning for Valentine’s Day, no matter what your plans are. For more outfit inspiration, be sure to check out The Weekly Style Edit link up below. Megan from The Fashionista Momma and I love to see all of the great looks you share with us each week. We hope you will join us again today!

valentines day outfit ideas #valentinesday #valentinesoutfit #holidaystyle

heart Old Navy graphic sweatshirt #oldnavystyle #valentinesday

personalized bracelets #tiredaf #leopardclutch

easy valentines day outfit #valentinesday #valentinesoutfit

easy valentines day outfit #oldnavystyle #valentinesdaystyle

Wearing:

Old Navy Graphic Sweatshirt (only $22!)

Old Navy Pixie Pants

Sole Society Flats

Shy by Sydney Evan ‘Love’ Necklace

Uncensor Yourself Bracelets c/o

Kendra Scott Bracelet c/o PopSugar

Gorjana Rings

Gray Monroe Leopard Clutch

Karen Walker Sunglasses

January 31, 2017

Valentine’s Day Favorites and Gift Ideas Under $50

My husband and I have actually never really been that big on giving gifts, especially big gifts, for Valentine’s Day. I’m not sure why, it’s just never been our thing. Since we started dating almost 11 years ago, we have always made it a tradition to cook and enjoy a fancy dinner at home. It definitely feels a lot more personal and intimate than going out. I say all of this as a huge preface because I totally realize that most people do exchange gifts and prefer to go out, which is a wonderful alternative! I’m all about people doing things that work best for them! With that said, today I put together a little list of some of my favorite Valentine’s inspired gifts for any lady in your life (in case you’re looking for ideas). I may or may not have already purchased a few of these for myself… so hint, hint, you’ll probably be seeing the Old Navy heart sweatshirt around later this week!

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day?

Sonix Heart Phone Case

kate spade ‘Heart of Gold’ Bangle

‘Love is All You Need’ Wooden Tray

Old Navy Graphic Sweatshirt

Slant Collections ‘Mom Fuel’ Mug

MAC Lipstick Kit

Heart Boxer Shorts

Baublebar Drop Earrings

Old Navy Lace Up Flats

Bow & Drape Hot Stuff Pouch

January 27, 2017

I’m Not Like a Regular Mom, I’m a Cool Mom

Happy Friday, I hope you had a good week! For some reason when I was putting together today’s post I had a bit of a hard time coming up with a title. Finally, one of my favorite Mean Girls quotes popped into my head. At that point, I had trouble getting it out. I know, I know… “I’m not like a regular mom, I’m a cool mom” is pretty over-played at this point, but it just felt so fitting for this outfit #sorrynotsorry. I actually don’t even think I can count on two hands how many times I’ve worn a combination of this outfit.

Earlier this week I talked about the only 5 pieces you need to create the perfect momiform. I would definitely say that the ones included in today’s post could be equally fitting because for me, the ultimate momiform consists of comfortable and practical pieces. I used to never be a sneakers outside of the gym type of girl, but recently picked up this pair of Nikes and have found myself wanting to wear them almost daily. Speaking of my latest shoe obsessions, last week for The Weekly Style Edit link up I shared another one of my recent favorite finds – suede over the knee boots for under $75. Today Megan from The Fashionista Momma and I are back for another edition of The Weekly Style Edit. We love to see all of the great outfits that you all share with us, and hope you will join us again today! Add you link below and be sure to show some love to the other lovely bloggers as well. Enjoy your weekend!

im a cool mom outfit; comfy and cute momiform

Wearing:

Faux Leather Jacket (under $45!)

BP Striped Tee

Kut From The Kloth Jeans

Nike Sneakers

Sole Society Thalia Bag

Forever 21 Pom Pom Beanie (similar version here!)

Karen Walker Sunglasses

* linking up with some of these lovely ladies

January 24, 2017

The Only 5 Pieces You Need to Create The Perfect Momiform

Alright mamas, today’s post is totally for you! I would say that since having a baby, my style has most definitely changed. I’m certain I am not alone in that. It hasn’t changed drastically, as I’ve always been a jeans and flats kind of girl, but my choices in accessories has shifted, as well as the way I pair certain pieces. My wardrobe did have to change pretty signficantly while I was nursing Harper and pumping at work, and some days getting dressed felt like the biggest challenge. I think it’s safe to say that becoming a mom has forced me to simplify my wardrobe and think about the practicality of each piece before purchasing. When I originally took these photos last week, I had just planned to create a typical outfit post. After editing them, it dawned on me that this outfit was the perfect momiform, or mom uniform. I actually wore it to run some errands and to go to lunch with my little family, and was completely comfortable in it all day. An outfit like this is simple, and can certainly be re-created with a variety of other pieces, however here is the recipe for my momiform:

1. As soon as this sweater arrived in the mail, my first thought was, “I wish I had this last winter!” because this wrap front style is totally nursing friendly (bonus for any new mama!) A solid top or sweater in a neutral color is the best starting point for every outfit, as it can be re-mixed so many different ways.

2. I’m not kidding when I say that Old Navy Rockstar jeans feel like you are wearing leggings. These are my total go-to jeans, and I have multiple pairs in different styles and colors. They have the perfect amount of stretch, run true to size, and definitely don’t look like your typical “mom jean”. They are also super affordable and are almost always on sale!

3. This clutch is a total lifesaver, and I am not even exaggerating when I say that. I am pretty much over the days of carrying a giant diaper bag around when we go out because it’s really not necessary anymore now that Harper is older. It holds all of my essentials, and even has a fold out changing pad attached inside – how cool is that?!

4. Flats are a momiform must. They’re easy to throw on and are ideal for chasing around your little one(s). I wear my leopard loafers at least 3-4 times a week because they add a fun touch and can liven up any outfit. I like the look and feel of a loafer versus a traditional flat because they tend to be more comfortable and lightweight.

5. Adding simple accessories is the way to go as a mom. I used to be really into big statement necklaces, but those just aren’t practical for every day life anymore. I swore I wouldn’t get into the choker trend, but now that I’ve tried it I have to say I kind of love it. This simple bow choker is so sweet and adds the perfect finishing touch! Also, don’t forget a great pair of sunglasses.

For all of my fellow mamas, what 5 pieces would you include in your momiform?

Wearing:

Wrap Front Sweater c/o Zaful

Baublebar Choker (on sale for only $22!)

Old Navy Rockstar Jeans

Old Navy Driving Loafers

Petunia Pickle Bottom Convertible Clutch c/o The Baby Cubby

Valley Eyewear Sunglasses via Ditto (use code MIDDLEOFSOMEWHERE to get your first month free)

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

* linking up with some of these lovely ladies

January 20, 2017

Suede OTK Boots Under $75

TGIF! This week wound up flying by and I can’t believe it’s already almost the weekend. We actually don’t have any big plans this weekend, which is always a positive in my book. This week I decided that I want to plan to go to my first blog conference this summer and I really couldn’t be more excited! More to come as the details unfold, so for now let’s stick to fashion! Last week for The Weekly Style Edit I shared a super cute printed top from Pink Blush, and today I’m back to bring you my absolute new favorite pair of boots.

I have been wanting to get a pair of over the knee boots for-ev-er! I finally found the perfect pair and the best part is they are under $75, available in 3 different colors, and are available in both regular and wide calf. Does it get any better than that? They are also perfect if you’re tall like me because they actually hit me right above the knee! You guys know I am not a big dress person, but now that I have these boots, I totally want to wear them with every casual dress I own. Do you own a pair of OTK boots? I’d love to hear your favorite ways to style them!