My Current Beauty Faves

1.  Make Up Forever Invisible Cover Stick Foundation ($43): Screw liquid foundation, this is my new go-to.  I can't even begin to tell you guys how awesome this stick foundation is.  I own it in Sand, and it matches my complexion perfectly, like I'm talking second skin perfect.  I simply swipe it onto my cheeks, forehead and chin and blend it all in with a sponge.  The coverage is SO good that I don't even need concealer anymore.  Needless to say, I'll definitely be re-purchasing this product.

2.  Hottie By Nature ($19.95):  If you're a fan of essential oils, this baby's a total must-have.  The spray contains rosewood and citrus tones for a scent that soothes your spirit and boosts your confidence.  Spray it into cupped hands and inhale deeply for calming aromatherapy benefits or spritz it on post-shower as a lightweight perfume.  Available at ApolloBox! Use code KIM15 to get an extra 15% off.

3-4. Pixi Beauty Strobe & Bronze Palette by MaryamMaquillage ($20) + Strobe & Sculpt Brush ($14): This is, hands down, my current favorite face palette - andddd that's saying a LOT because I've been all about Anastasia's Contour Kit for a good 2 years now.  The kit comes with 3 highlighters and 3 bronzers that are to die for gorgeous, but I've been using Lex (to highlight) and Statuesque (to contour) together on the daily. I really can't recommend this enough - I can pretty much guarantee that you'll LOVE this item so pick one up STAT!

Now, I listed 3-4 together because they're a pair.  Pixi's Strobe & Sculpt brush is seriously magic! Made out of synthetic fiber, it does an incredible job blending your face to perfection.  The tapered side's ideal for applying highlighters while the other brush is designed for buffing and blending.  It's literally the ONLY brush I use now on my face.  Do yourself a favor and give it a try!

5-6.  Aveda Nourish-mint Lip Definer ($20) + Maybelline Vivid Matte Lip Gloss ($7.99):  Let's be real, there's nothing sexier than a killer red lip, and these products help you achieve just that.  I've always been a big fan of Maybelline's matte lippie line, but they totally hit it out of the park with Red Punch.  Pair it with Aveda's Tarragona liner for a bomb date night look!  

7.  Palmer's FlipBalm ($3.99):  If you're looking for a fun new lip balm, scoop this item up ASAP. Available in three amazing scents, this product will moisturize your pucker like nobody's business.  I have Juicy Watermelon, and it almost smells good enough to eat!  Plus, the packaging's really cute - I love that it flips open - so I'm a fan.

Remixing My Favorite Velvet Heart Top

Alright guys, it's time for another remix!  I'm beyond pumped to restyle my Velvet Heart top for you all today on SS.  I don't know if you remember, but I featured it HERE a while back.  For my latest OOTD, I paired it with skinny jeans and a cropped bomber jacket.  I was in a sporty mood so I threw on my fave sneaker wedges before running out the door!

Other fabulous bombers under $50: 

Sung and I finished shooting mad early andddd we were both hangry so we decided to grab an early dinner at Ted's Bulletin.  I was ITCHING for a splurge meal so I ended up getting fried chicken tenders with coleslaw and french fries - their early bird specials are bomb BTW.  I know I sound like an old lady saying that, but hey, I'm a sucker for all good deals.  Don't judge, ha!  For dessert, I devoured a brown sugar pop tart in less than 30 seconds - they're famous for 'em so you need to get 1 (or 5) when you come to get your nom on.

Top:  Velvet Heart || Jeans:  Aeropostale || Shoes: Rock & Candy || Jacket:  Charlotte Russe (similar) || Bag: Chanel (look for less)

Photos shot by the wonderful Sung Shin.

SS Eats: Matcha Time Cafe

I'm all sorts of pumped to tell you guys about Matcha Time Cafe today on SS.  I discovered this gem on yelp and couldn't resist featuring it!  Located in Historic Ellicott City, MD, this Japanese cafe + gift shop was seriously the cutest ever, AND there was a huge free lot out front so parking was easy peasy.  A definite plus for me because my parallel parking skills = not so hot.

My bf and I came here last week to try their desserts, and we were pleasantly surprised by everything. The interior was on point, the staff was super friendly, and the food was delish!  We got a matcha latte, green tea waffle ice cream (pictured above), and homemade mochi with red bean to share. Note: make sure you check out their hanging menu w/ specials before placing your order.  I totally missed it at first so I wanted to give you guys a heads up.

Our drink was made with almond milk - you can get it with soy if you prefer - and although tasty, it was a little too sweet for me.  The green tea waffle ice cream was $5.99, and the presentation was super on point.  It was cut into four pieces and coated in dark chocolate (!!!!) It was then drizzled with chocolate sauce and garnished with strawberries and whipped cream.  The homemade mochi had a nice texture, but you MUST get it with red bean.  It makes all the difference in the world!

A shot of Japanese goodies + drinks.

Also available: a variety of award-winning teas, in-house made pastries, sushi, and ramen.

Cute origami decor!

Their gift shop featuring items from Japan along with adorable crafts made in the US by Japanese and American artisans.

Alright guys, that's it for today! I'm planning on featuring more local joints in the near future so keep your eyes peeled. I'm all about supporting small businesses so I'm extra excited for what's to come. What do you guys think of Matcha Time Cafe? Are you a fan of asian pastries and desserts?