Bits of Style x Clarisonic

The weather has been changing and so has my skin. Enter Clarisonic! I'm very excited to have had the opportunity to work with Her Campus and the revolutionary skincare brand. They kindly sent me the Clarisonic Deep Pore Mia 2 set to give a spin...get it, because the Clarisonic brush spins? This is my first time ever owning a Clarisonic and I couldn't be happier to welcome it to my skincare routine. I must admit, I was nervous to try it since my skin is super sensitive. On my first go-around, I spot tested my chin to see how my skin would react to the brush. I used a cleanser that's part of my daily routine instead of the Deep Pore one so I would know for sure if it was the brush that was bothering me. When I woke up the next morning and there was no reaction, I was overjoyed. 

I kept using the cleanser my skin is used to with the brush for about two weeks, then made the switch to the Deep Pore Daily Cleanser. I tried it on my face without the brush for a night or two at first to make sure my skin wouldn't break out, which it didn't. I definitely recommend always testing a new product out on a small part of your skin before you go all in. Long story short, I am very impressed with the Deep Pore Mia 2 set! I use it at night to cleanse after I have washed all my makeup off. I splash my face with warm water, apply a small amount of the Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, wet and turn on the Mia 2, and move the brush in circular motions around my skin. The brush itself beeps to tell you when it's time to move to a different area of your face, and the whole routine takes only one minute. I follow up with my favorite face moisturizer. The true gem of the Deep Pore set is the Detoxifying Clay Mask. It made a huge difference in my skin after just one use. 

The Deep Pore brush head is gentle, not harsh, and effectively cleanses my skin. In the few short weeks I've been using the Mia 2 system, my skin has become softer, less red, and had fewer breakouts. My makeup goes on smoother and sits nicely on my skin. It really is a miracle worker. I am confident the Clarisonic Mia 2 cleansing system is going to help me have healthy, glowing skin for life. Smooth skin is always in style. 

Get 15% off a Clarisonic device through November 20th with the code "HERCAMPUS." 

A big thank you again to Clarisonic and Her Campus for gifting me with the Deep Pore Mia 2 set! 

Featured Products:

Mia 2

Deep Pore Detoxifying Set

FTC: This post was sponsored by Clarisonic and Her Campus Media. All opinions are authentic and my own.

~Bitsy

My Beauty Essentials

Beauty products are not one size fits all. Today, I want to share my favorite beauty essentials that will suit anyone and any budget. This isn't going be the type of post you're expecting. 

Makeup is expensive.

 Being a beautiful person is free. 

I love makeup as much as the next Sephora Beauty Insider, but there are so many more important ways to be beautiful besides applying plastic-packaged products to your skin. 

Kindness is free. An open mind is free. Embracing diversity is free. Respect is free. Caring is free. Helping someone is free. Love is free. All of these beauty essentials are guaranteed to erase unwanted and unnecessary hate from this world we all live in. 

The world does not feel beautiful or loved right now. It is hurting inside and out. We need beautiful people to remind this planet how beautiful and loved it really is. 

~Bitsy

My MAC Lipstick Collection

I am a MAC lipstick addict. I just can never have enough! They are amazing quality and come in many different colors and finishes. They apply smoothly on the lips with fabulous staying power and pigmentation. My personal favorites are the satins, lustres, and cremesheens. If you haven't tried MAC lipsticks, I highly suggest you do. 

My collection:

Sweetie (lustre)

Snob (satin)

Up The Amp (amplified)

Hot Gossip (cremesheen)

Lovelorn (lustre)

Pink Pearl Pop (cremesheen)

Viva Glam V (lustre)

Viva Glam Miley Cyrus (amplified) *Limited Edition

Candy Yum-Yum (matte)

Creme Cup (cremesheen)

Angel (frost)

Bombshell (frost)

Media (satin)

Rebel (satin)

Russian Red (matte)

MAC Red (satin)

Real Doll (lustre) *Limited Edition

Lustering (lustre)

Milan Mode (lustre)

Creme De La Femme (frost)

Plumful (lustre)

I have been growing this collection for about four years. MAC lipsticks are something I truly love collecting and I want to purchase more and more. I don't see this obsession stopping any time soon! I've swatched all my lipsticks on my arm below, so you can get an idea as to what they look like. Keep in mind, they do look a bit different on the lips and will not appear the same on any one skin tone. Definitely stop by a MAC store or counter to see these beauties for yourself. 

Top from left to right: Sweetie, Snob, Up The Amp, Hot Gossip, Lovelorn, Pink Pearl Pop, Viva Glam V, Viva Glam Miley Cyrus, Candy Yum-Yum, Creme Cup, Angel, Bombshell

Bottom from left to right: Media, Rebel, Russian Red, MAC Red, Real Doll, Lustering, Milan Mode, Creme De La Femme, Plumful

It's hard for me to pick a favorite, because I love them all, but if I had to choose I would say Milan Mode at the moment. It has just the right amount of shimmer and is a gorgeous plumy fuchsia. The color I think suits everyone is Viva Glam V. It's a rosy pink color with flecks of gold shimmer that is perfect for day or night. A must-have, in my opinion. 

Are you a MAC addict like myself? What is your favorite shade? Let me know in the comments below. 

~Bitsy 

2015: The Year of the Ponytail?

We know the Pantone color of the year is Marsala and it's the Year of the Sheep, but do we also know the hairstyle of the year? Could it be the ponytail? I think it very well could be! The ponytail is everywhere. It's been spotted sleek and slicked back, wavy with serious volume, a bit messy, and high or low.  No matter the style, a pony is the way to go! From the Oscars to the runways and everywhere in between, the pony has been making a show-stopping statement.

Dakota Johnson at the Oscars 

Dakota wowed with her ponytail on the red carpet. Slightly undone with wispy hairs framing her face, the hairstyle suited her gown and makeup perfectly. 

Jennifer Lopez at the Oscars

JLo was a princess in a ponytail on Oscar night. Her 'do dazzled like those diamond earrings!

Gigi Hadid at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party

Gigi had her hair in a simple ponytail that complimented her intricate dress. Classic hairdos are always in style. 

Lea Michele at the DGA Awards

Lea's ponytail looks natural and effortless. Glee may be over, but the pony is still going strong. 

Christian Dior 2015 RTW Collection at Paris Fashion Week 

Even designer collections donned the 'do on the runway! This sleek, shiny, side-knotted pony is fierce. 

Which 'do is doing it for you? How will you partake in the year of the ponytail?

~Bitsy

Fall Favorites

I haven't done a favorites post in forever! Now that it's fall and the holiday season is upon us, I figured it's about time. Without further adieu, here is what I've been loving this fall!

Beauty

MAC 'Media' lipstick: I think this is the ultimate fall lipstick. The dark berry tone is so autumnal and I think it would compliment any skin tone. I also love how it has a matte finish. You can wear it on its own or with a bit of gloss on top. Either way, you really can't go wrong with a MAC lipstick!

NARS 'Sin' blush: The perfect dusty plum color with a bit of sparkle. It gives a lovely fall flush. 

MAC 'Satin Taupe' eyeshadow: I swear by this shadow. It is my all-time favorite. I especially love wearing it around this time of year. If you're looking for a MAC eyeshadow, this is one to try. 

Stila 'Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner' in black: There's something about a nice cat eye that just screams fall to me. This Stila liner makes achieving the perfect wing easy, and, as the name says, it stays all day!

Fashion:

American Apparel Tennis Skirt: This skirt has been my go-to these past couple months. I just can't stop wearing it! Paired with black tights, a black turtleneck, and loafers is my ultimate autumn uniform. 

Chunky knit infinity scarves: I got mine at H&M last year and they are a life saver. They're cozy, cute, and compliment any outfit. 

June Favorites

Ray-Ban "Clubmaster" sunnies | MAC "Snob" lipstick | MAC "Morning Glory" Lustreglass | MAC "Hip 'N Happy" lip pencil | Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in "Lovesick" | Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara | Topshop "Pillow Talk" lipstick | Benefit "Porefessional" | The Fault in our Stars by John Green |

After missing 3 months of favorites, I figured it was about time for me to do another post of what I have been loving lately. This month's favorites consists of a lot of lip products, a couple of miscellaneous cosmetics, along with my new favorite accessory and my new favorite book. For lip products, I have been obsessed with all things pink and summery. As a MAC lipstick addict, I am always up for adding a new gem to my collection. This past month, I purchased "Snob", a pinky lilac shade that I absolutely adore. I love wearing it under MAC "Morning Glory" Lustreglass and lining my lips with MAC's "Hip 'N Happy" lip pencil. I'ts the perfect pairing. I also bought my first Topshop lipstick in the shade "Pillow Talk", the perfect pink color. It gives me a  "your lips but better" look that is great during the daytime. A drugstore score for me this past month was a Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in the shade "Lovesick".  I cannot say enough good things about this product. The bright fuchsia color stays put on my lips and feels moisturizing and amazing. I also love its refreshing minty scent. If you're looking for the perfect summer lip color that is lightweight, long lasting, and affordable, check this one out.

From top to bottom: MAC "Snob" lipstick, "Morning Glory" Lustreglass and "Hip 'N Happy" lip pencil | Topshop "Pillow Talk" lipstick | Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in "Lovesick |

I  had two miscellaneous beauty favorites in June. The first favorite is Maybelline Great Lash clear mascara. I use this to keep my brows in place when I use my Anastasia Brow Wiz pencil. It lasts all day long and keeps the color locked in and my brow game strong! Who doesn't want fierce eyebrows? My final beauty favorite is Benefit "Porefessional". I use this with my Bobbi Brown foundation and Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream and it works wonders. It keeps my skin looking smooth and my makeup feeling natural. Because of "Porefessional", I rediscovered my Smashbox BB Cream. I didn't like how it looked without a primer, but when I used "Porefessional", it gave my skin a natural, shine-free finish. The "Porefessional" and my BB cream are the beauty dream team.

 My Ray-Ban "Clubmaster" sunnies have been my go-to accessory. They are one of my favorite purchases ever. I love the gold trim around the lenses and the tortoise detail on the rims. The tortoise print goes with everything and, unlike black sunglasses, doesn't look too harsh against my pale skin. I know I will wear these not only in the summer, but year round. Sunglasses are my new staple.

 

My final June favorite is The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. This book was simply amazing. I loved the story, the characters, and the message. This was the first book I've read by John Green and I cherished every word. His writing style is unlike any other and full of so much meaning and wisdom. The Fault in Our Stars was a joy to read, even though it brought tears to my eyes. I can't wait to see the movie and, based on the reviews I've read, it looks like a winner.

 

~Bitsy

 

Cap and Gown

 

Dress: American Apparel | Sandals: Nordstrom BP | Sunnies: Ray-Ban 'Clubmasters' |

 

I can't believe I am a high school graduate! Saturday, June 14th was my graduation and it feels so surreal. Four years went by so quickly. Wearing my cap and gown was incredible and I had fun selecting a graduation dress from my wardrobe. I knew my chiffon dress from American Apparel was the perfect choice. It even matched my chords!

 

Later that night, my parents, my sister and I went out for a post-graduation dinner at a lovely little Italian place. I had the most delicious chicken parmesan I've ever tasted and the pasta was homemade perfection. I couldn't have imagined a better way to celebrate.

 

 

After dinner, we headed to the mall to do a bit of shopping. I picked up some goodies that I absolutely love. The Nordstrom we went to had a Topshop and I was thrilled when I discovered the Topshop makeup section. You could say I was in makeup heaven. After swatching multiple lipsticks to the point where the back of my hand looked like a painter's palette, I decided on a pink shade called "Pillow Talk." I also bought a MAC lipstick in "Snob." I guess I'm on a pink lipstick kick lately!

 

 

While in Nordstrom, I got a pair of white low-top Converse. something that had been on my wishlist for a long time. Everyone needs a good pair of Converse, right? They will go with everything and I can't wait to wear them.

 

At Urban Outfitters, I bought a simple black and white striped tee. I was debating whether or not I should buy it, but am so glad I did. It is the perfect summer basic that will look great with high waisted denim shorts and my new Converse.

 

  

I truly couldn't be happier with the way my graduation day turned out. From the beautiful ceremony, to the lovely dinner and shopping, it was all so nice and special. I had a wonderful time with my family and will never forget it. Now it is time for the next chapter of my life to begin.

 

~Bitsy



Luvocracy GIVEAWAY & Spring Essentials

There is so much to "luv" about Spring, especially all the fun and festive fashion and beauty products. Luvocracy is the perfect place for me to keep track of my Spring essentials. In case you haven't heard of Luvocracy, it is a website and app where you can "luv" products and shop your favorites. You can also see what other members are "luving." It is the ultimate social-shopping experience. I have partnered with Luvocracy and created a collection filled with some of my fashion and beauty essentials to give you some springspiration. By following this link to my collection and signing up for Luvocracy, you will automatically be entered to win a $5 credit to shop on Luvocracy! If you're a lucky winner, feel free to shop my Spring essentials or find something you "luv!" The giveaway ends on Monday, March 24th. Winners will be notified via e-mail on Tuesday, April 1st. The official rules of the giveaway and additional links are posted below. Good luck! :)

Link to giveaway

http://www.luvocracy.com/bitsyskerry/collections/spring-essentials

Link to my Luvocracy profile

http://www.luvocracy.com/bitsyskerry

Luvocracy Official Sweepstakes Giveaway Rules

Giveaways are open to New Members of Luvocracy who are 18 years or older and have a U.S. shipping address. All participants’ contact information will not be made publicly available and will be kept private. One entry per person. No purchase necessary to enter or win.

Winners are generated via a random number generator software program and will be announced on the date indicated. The winner will be notified by email within 3 days after the announcement date. Winners must respond within 5 days or the prize will be forfeited.

The use of any automated launching or entry software or any other mechanical or electronic means that permits the participant to automatically register and/or enter repeatedly is prohibited and all such entries will be disqualified. Only one entry per person will be considered for giveaway entry. Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify any Entry for any reason, in its sole and absolute discretion.

Please view our Terms of Service before creating an account and entering the contest.

December Favorites

1. My Topshop boyfriend coat added the perfect pop of color to my monochromatic outfits this December. I originally wanted the black version of this coat, but couldn't be happier with the red one. The red stands out in not only the snowy landscape, but in the sea of black winter coats.

 

2. L'Occitane hand cream is the best hand cream hands down. My hands are always so cracked and dry in the winter and this heals them right up. I put some on before I go to bed and my hands go from flaky to fabulous overnight!

 

3. My Topshop sweater is the perfect shade of winter green. Whether I pair it with a skirt and tights or jeans, it always keeps me cozy. I can't wait to wear it even more in the coming months.

 

4. I can't live without my eos lip balm. I apply this minty goodness to my lips before bed and in the morning my lips are nice and soft. This is absolutely one of my winter must-haves.

 



November Favorites

 

1. I wore my faux-leather jacket constantly throughout the month of November. I got mine from Nordstrom last year, but never wore it much. I'm glad I have been enjoying it lately. Leather jackets are a must for the fall and winter seasons. They give a cool and chic edge to any outfit.

 

2. The Topshop 'Joni' jeans are perfection. I have the petite version. They are the perfect length and so comfy. I've worn them a ridiculous amount of times! If you're looking for the perfect high-waisted jeans, get a pair of 'Joni' jeans. You won't regret it.

 

3.  'Media' lipstick from MAC is the perfect deep berry shade for fall and winter. I have a slight obsession with MAC lipsticks and this one is definitely my new favorite. When I want to add a festive pop of color to my lips, I put on 'Media' and I am good to go.

 

4. I got my Steve Madden 'Troopa' boots for back-to-school and have been wearing them ever since. They were comfy right out of the box and look amazing with so many different outfits. You can't go wrong with a nice pair of combat boots.