6.27.2018

June Boxycharm Review

Hey y'all! Today I'm sharing my Boxycharm subscription from the month of June.

Here's the scoop real quick, if you're new around here:

For $20/month, Boxycharm sends you 4-5, or really, 6+ full-sized beauty products, making it the best bang-for-your-buck subscription service, no contest! I know I always say this, but the price of one item always covers the price of the box; for example, the eyeshadow palette alone from this box is worth $28. I'm considering cancelling, but only because I'm living in excess. But I just can't cancel after this good of a month, the FOMO is way too strong! Check out my past months reviews here.


The theme for June was Caribbean Queen, which was very dreamy! Here's what I received:
Priya the Blog, Nashville beauty blog, Nashville beauty blogger, Boxycharm June 2018, Alamar Reina Del Caribe, Sol De Janerio, Luxie makeup brushes, subscription box review, Ofra, Jonteblu eyeliner, fake eyelashes, Battington, Boxycharm, subscription box, beauty buzz, Luxie brushes, Sol de Janerio Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, Battington Monroe Silk Lashes, Alamar Reina Del Caribe eyeshadow palette, Jonteblu, Ofra Liquid Lipstick,
+ Alamar Reina Del Caribe | retail value $28
I was familiar with this palette after seeing it hyped up by KathleenLights (who am I) and I was so excited to see it included this month. I wasn't prepared for how much I absolutely LOVE it. The colors are so unique and perfect for warm weather, the shimmers are GORGEOUS and so incredibly pigmented. It actually works just as well for a toned down daytime look as well; Coco-Taxi is the perfect transition shade, and I love Celia smudged under the eye. I'm actually obsessed with a pop of color under the eye, thanks to this palette. I've already used this several times! If you're looking for a unique palette to dip into this Summer, would totally recommend this.

+ Battington Monroe Silk Lashes | retail value: $28
This is fun - these lashes are made of silk and with proper care can be worn 25 times or more! I'm still not a fake eyelash pro, but I wore these all day Saturday at Pride! They are very pretty and natural looking, and by the end of the day were really irritating my eyes, but I'm almost sure that was user error (I had to get ready SO fast.) Looking forward to wearing them again and seeing how long and how well they last.

+ Luxie 3 Piece Flawless Complexion Set | retail value: $38
Luxie makes some of my favorite brushes because they are always super pretty and very soft. This set wasn't necessarily my favorite (just realizing I haven't tried the foundation brush yet - oops!) but I do like the 516 Duo Fibre for blush and the 522 Tapered Highlighter for setting my under eyes (and not for highlighter.)

+ Jontéblu Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil in Charcoal | retail value: $5
I don't have much to say about this! Works just fine as an eyeliner pencil, not super into gray eyeliner, but, if you're into that, it's fine.

+ Ofra Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in Verona | $20
You already know what I'm going to say, right? Boxycharm is driving me CRAZY by including a neutral liquid lipstick every month (I swear, this is the third month in a row.) This is really my only gripe about the whole thing. I like this lipstick just fine, but, about like every other neutral liquid lipstick I have. Please please can we have a bright pink or red or literally anything else?

+ Sol de Janerio Brazilian Bum Bum Cream | retail value: $10
People rave about this as their absolute favorite body butter - it does smell amazing and isn't too greasy. I have dry spots and will always welcome a nice luxurious lotion! It's actually nice that this is travel size and perfect for throwing in a bag.

TOTAL VALUE: $129 !

Let me know what you received in your Boxycharm or other subscription service this month!

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6.23.2018

27 Lessons I've Learned at 27

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Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, 27 Lessons I've Learned at 27 Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, 27 Lessons I've Learned at 27Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, 27 Lessons I've Learned at 27Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, 27 Lessons I've Learned at 27Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, 27 Lessons I've Learned at 27
When Adriane asked if I would help her practice her studio photography, I was like, duh. I won't turn this into a modeling blog (also, I'm not a model!) but I thought a nice self-reflective post was a good way to share some of these. Adriane is real good, y'all! Go see her!!

A couple weeks ago, I turned 27. I've seen posts like this on several blogs, & I always love reading them, because everyone has advice to share from their life experiences. While I still feel very much like not a girl, not yet a woman, (when does that end, by the way?) I think I've learned some stuff along the way, too.

| On people | 

1. Sometimes you don't like someone at first because you just don't understand them. Make an attempt to humanize them and understand where they're coming from, and you might be surprised!

2. "Keeping in touch" with people is hard work but it is totally worth it.

3. On that note - talking on the phone isn't the ONLY way to keep in touch! Write letters, FaceTime, have an on-going group text. Not everyone is a phone-talker.

4. NO FAMILY IS perfect. Every family deals with their own issues, find comfort in that.

5. People may not always appreciate you being honest, but it is valuable.

| On friendship |

6. It is possible to rekindle friendships from middle school and even elementary school. Chances are, if you hit it off then, you'll hit it off again. The internet makes this totally doable. Do it!

7. When it comes to friends q u a l i t y > q u a n t i t y. Don't freak out if your friend group shrinks and tightens as you get older. You can literally hang out with the same person every day and weekend if you find your soulmate* (*soulmate platonic friend.)

8. Some people are meant to be your friends for a very specific phase in your life, and that's it. It doesn't have to be sad, it just is what it is.

9. Never underestimate that some of the best friends you will ever have can be your brothers and sisters. These relationships may get fractured, but can always be fixed.

| On relationships |

10. You don't have to take relationship advice from...anyone, but especially anyone whose love life is worse than yours.

11. It's fun dating a hottie, but even the hottest hottie will one day be a regular person that you'll need to be able to just talk to and laugh with. Get you someone that can do both, because chemistry is also important.

12. Anybody that truly loves you WILL do WHATEVER it takes to be with you. Period. (Similar, but less of an ultimatum: people make time for what is truly important to them.)

13. Loving someone isn't necessarily a reason to stay with someone. Being with someone for a long time definitely isn't. There is never a good time to break up with someone, because you will always have something planned that you will awkwardly have to cancel. Not a reason to not do it.

| On work |

14. It could be nice to just have everything handed to you, but working hard for things DOES make you appreciate them a whole lot.

15. Rapport is important. And I don't mean brown-nosing, but for the record, there is nothing wrong with a little brown-nosing. Like my dad always says, rule number one at the airport is "Always be nice to the lady" and you have a better chance of things working in your favor.

16. Working hard and trying hard can get you through most things. Even calculus!

17. Don't be embarrassed because you're hustling.

| On your #1 |

18. If you don't like coffee or alcohol, keep trying! You just haven't found your drinks yet.

19. It's ok to like what YOU like. Make it your thing. You don't have to like what other people like.

20. Be nice, but be genuine. Being fake is a waste of time.

21. Stick up for yourself, first and foremost! No one else is going to do it. You need to be your own biggest advocate, cheerleader, and friend.

| On everything else |

22. Opt for a polish change over a manicure. All you'll "miss" is the lotion and massage, and about $5.

23. Exercise releases endorphins and will {almost} ALWAYS make you feel better, not worse.

24. Absolutely nothing is the end of the world, except, the actual end of the world.

25. You can bring your kimono to college and end up using it a whole bunch.

26. Traveling is the best thing you can spend money on, & booking really is cheaper on a Tuesday!

27. Expensive mistakes absolutely SUCK, but you can be sure you won't make them again.

**And a bonus one to grow into this year! 28. Don't let anyone wearing gingham pants at the gym bully you.


If you've written a post like this, please share a link, I would love to read it! Feel free to share your myriad life advice below as well, anything goes!

photos by Adriane Smith Creative - now booking, hit her up!
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6.20.2018

Priya's Technicolor Dreamcoat

Priya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuit
Priya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuitPriya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuit
Priya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuit Priya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuitPriya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuit
Priya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuitPriya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuitPriya the Blog, Nashville fashion blog, Nashville fashion blogger, Nashville style blog, Nashville style blogger, milkmaid braids, Madewell Rainbow Stripe Dress, chambray jumpsuit, Summer outfit, Madewell Rainbow Stripe, ban.do gold sunglasses, nude suede heels, rainbow tunic over chambray jumpsuit
| sunglasses: ban.do | earrings: Madewell | lip: ColourPop UltraSatin in Frick n' Frack | dress (as tunic): Madewell | jumpsuit: Old Navy | purse: Marc Jacobs from Carina | heels: Target |

Click the item name for additional wears on the blog, check the widget to shop exact/similar!


There you go, here's a nice Summer-y outfit for you! I am sooo into this entire rainbow line from the Madewell Spring collection. Pretty sure the dress is sold out (editor's note: looks like they still have it in XX-Small. Mine is an X-Small, for reference. It's very much a "sack" style dress, so if you're my size or smaller, I think the XX-Small could work for you!) (I take this all back - this dress is available at Shopbop! I can't keep track of where all you can buy Madewell these days.) They also have the cape/scarf, swimsuit (I don't need TWO rainbow striped one pieces. Right?!), and blouse! This pattern is the best of both worlds, because it fulfills my NEED to wear bright colors, but keeps things chic. 

I am also all about wearing these button-up dresses open, like tunic-style, over something else. It's kinda like a Summer blazer! I loveddd wearing this dress over the chambray jumpsuit, though you probably noticed I have my hand in my pocket in like all the photos because I realized this outfit could look unflattering very fast. I have this same dress in blue chambray as well, and one time wore it over a tank top and jeans with Birkenstocks and the aesthetic felt very Scandinavian Art Teacher. When I walked into the office this day, someone said "Oh I love your technicolor dreamcoat." and I thought ! Thank you for writing my blog post title (let's be real - titles are hard.) 

I also need these heels in about 3 other colors. You can find this style literally everywhere, but you can't beat the Target price point! These are the Summer 2018 version of my black block heels that I wore non-stop last year...but I've been picking these nude heels over them every time lately (I need those extra inches!!)

I am so excited for Adriane, because she has gone creative full-time! We shot these on her last official day in the office. We've actually been able to see each other a few times since then, a little babysitting, a little garage studio shoot (stay tuned!), it's been fun :) 

By the way, especially now that her full time gig is photography + art, if you're in Nashville and looking for a photographer for your blog, corporate headshots, weddings, etc. etc. SHE is your girl!

I didn't even think about this earlier, but this dress is perfect for this month! Happy PRIDE, everyone! 

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6.18.2018

Gifts I Bought Myself For My Birthday

I'm not sure what this post is, exactly, some sort of retroactive wish-list?

Well maybe you have a 27th birthday coming up, and you're wondering what exactly you want. Sometimes the best gifts are the ones you get yourself, and there is no shame in that. And not that you ever need a disclaimer for spoiling yourself (!) but when I was thinking "did I go overboard for my birthday this year" I remembered I am constantly side-hustling, for such a time as this!

And read on to see that technically I did not buy all of this for myself.
Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, birthday wishlist, birthday shopping guide
Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, birthday wishlist, birthday shopping guide
Laura Lee's Favorite Brush Collection by Morphe
I've had my eye on this brush set compiled by beauty vlogger Laura Lee since I saw the reveal video. I do watch her channel pretty consistently, though it may be an acquired taste ;) I'm totally still learning about make-up, and specifically, using the correct brushes for application, so I was very excited to try these out! My favorite so far is the crease brush. This set has gone out of stock TWICE but is currently available.

Zara Striped Top
How cutie is this? I fell in love with a very similar sold out top at Madewell, and my sister turned me on to this one! Still waiting for my second size to come in the mail, but hopefully it will be featured here soon.

Zara "Dress With Bows"
As you can probably tell, I love Zara, because I find that it's the perfect place to find "high fashion fast fashion." I always find great stuff there, whether it's the cool girl piece of the moment or a basic with a funky twist. I was so excited to go to Zara when I was in Florida for the weekend! I wanted to find a dress for my actual birthday dinner back in Nashville, and I love this one. Reformation vibes, no?

Urban Outfitters Emilia Tiered Jewelry Stand
This is a bit random but the jewelry stand I've had for years just did NOT fit my vibe anymore. I wanted something really simple and gold that would hold a lot! And this is on sale!

Zara Poplin Dress
I was joking that this was a very 27 year old purchase, a basic white button-down dress over something crazy and printed. This is the perfect dress to wear to work and i LOVE the swing shape. Outfit post coming soon!

Zara Statement Earrings
The earrings at Zara redefine "statement." These are not the exact pair I picked out, but have a similar tropical bejeweled and slightly ridiculous vibe. Do yourself a favor and check out their accessory selection, they have sooooo much good stuff and I want it all.

Marc Fisher Zala Pump
These pumps are something I really wanted but ended up not buying. I am actually very proud of myself for not settling for "lilac", when I really wanted "light purple suede" but Nordstrom didn't have my size for the sale price. I'll keep an eye on them because they're just so fun!

Zara Bermuda Shorts With Double Ruffle
Dressy black shorts are my go-to for going out- whether it's to dinner, the clurb, a bachelorette party, etc. I have a couple pairs, but because I wear them frequently, I'm always on the lookout for a new cut or style.

Mara Hoffman Evelyn Pants
Ok these pants and the dress were a birthday present from my cute boyfriend! I was shook!! I love anything Mara Hoffman does, but I love especially that he picked out items FOR me - that I actually really, really like. Purple pants?! Hello. Aren't these a dream?

Mara Hoffman Bette Dress
This dress, also a gift from Art, is gorgeous. Probably a bit too fancy for every day, but I can't wait for an occasion to wear it!

Are you on team "buy birthday gifts for yourself" and if so, tell me the best thing you got this year! 
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6.12.2018

What Have I Been Up To?

HAY. I know I've been in & out of here the past few weeks; and though my blog has always and will likely always have a style focus, I do feel a bit off if I don't share what else is going on! I can only assume if you're reading my blog, you're invested in more than what I'm wearing as well (PLUS Alyssa reminded me that there is definitely still a place on the internet for bloggers to get personal and share their stories.)

So here's what else has been going on in my life for the last month or so:
Priya the Blog, Nashville lifestyle blog, Nashville lifestyle blogger, Tennessee Summer, life update
+ I turned 27! If I sound different (lol) that's why. Kicking around a birthday post to hopefully share soon.

+ MY NEPHEW WAS BORN on my birthday. I KNOW. Of all 365 days to choose from. I am already obsessed!

+ Dith had her bachelorette party in Dyersburg, TN. My dear friend Meredith gets married on July 7th!

+ Art & I spent the weekend in Florida. A beach weekend for my birthday in scenic Siesta Key (mostly.)

+ Btw I have a boyfriend and his name is Art. I purposefully haven't shared a lot about this yet for several reasons, but now I'm ready to shout it from the rooftops! You can stalk him on Instagram here. ;)

+ I went to two weddings: one not a surprise in Atlanta, one a surprise here in town! Such fun!

+ Summer has arrived in Nashville. It is hot, the lightning bugs are out, and I'm spending as much time under water and at outdoor concerts as possible.

+ And because it makes up 40+ hours of my regular week, I feel like I have to mention work (talent @ an email marketing company, fyi) has been CRAZY but good!

+ Most recently my sister is here for like a day and we are seeing Kacey Musgraves & Harry Styles tonight!!


And that's the scoop! I've had a smashing start to the Summer, and I hope you have too! Would love to hear about your adventures or whatever is new with you, share below!

I'll be back later in the week with an outfit post. xo
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6.01.2018

May Boxycharm Review

It's Boxycharm time!

Really quick if you're new around here, here's the scoop: Boxycharm is a subscription service that sends you 4-5 (or 6+) full-sized products a month for $20. I'm no stranger to subscription boxes, but I just can't quit this one because it's head and shoulders above the others! Like I say every month, the retail value of ONE item usually covers the price of the box. And I really love receiving quality brands like Cover Fx, Pretty Vulgar, and PUR (and in the past, Tarte, MAC, ColourPop, to name a few!) Check out all my past Boxycharm reviews here.

And get yourself a little Boxycharm right here!

The theme for May was "Boxy Bash", because Boxycharm had a birthday. Everyone received s i x products, which was quite generous!

+ PÜR Sculptor Palette | retail value: $30
I was excited to receive this because my Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit is basically done, but guys, this is DARK. I am a medium tan-ish myself and have had a hard time finding bronzer that is dark enough, but I kinda can't believe they sent this out to everyone. I'm able to make the bronzer work (not my favorite, it's patchy too) but the highlights are pretty! I especially like the gold shimmer in the bottom left.

Aesthetica P12 Face Brush | retail value: $27
I was pleasantly surprised by this brush, that I initially thought was too fluffy to use with the contour palette. I've been using it for both bronzer and blush, and loving it! I'll be using it for all over bronzer all Summer. I am shocked at the price of these Aesthetica brushes though. I would never ever pay $27 for a brush I like equally/not as much as the Wet n Wild Pro Line.

+ Aesthetica Pro Brush Series | retail value: $45
Again, how is this $45? I did not previously own a spoolie brush, so that was great to add to my collection. The other two brushes were specifically for the eyeliner pot that also came in the box. I've tried them both out a couple times, and here's the thing: do they apply the eyeliner? Yes. Are they the best eyeliner brushes ever like the retail price would suggest? No! I found especially the skinny one to be not the best. I'm not an eyeliner expert, but that's my $0.02.

Cover Fx Blurring Primer | retail value: $38
This primer boasts "pore blurring" qualities, which is not something I'm super interested in. I do like it, Cover Fx is a great brand, and after several trials, I would say it works as well as other primers I own (though I'm more partial to an illuminating one.) Interestingly, this primer comes out looking a bit like a BB cream, but blends in sheer. I think unless I try a truly terrible primer I won't know the difference (sorry, beauty newb.)

+ Pretty Vulgar The Ink Gel Eyeliner | retail value: $22
It's been a minute since I used into a gel eyeliner in a pot like this! Boxycharm has sent me a few Pretty Vulgar products, and I've generally enjoyed them. This eyeliner goes on super smooth, and stays in place pretty well (some transfer to your eyelid when you first apply, but I think that's normal until it dries.) Until if and when I ever get handy with eyeliner like this, I think my preference will still be a "felt tip pen" eyeliner (just ordered this one at Kate's rec!)

Beauty Creations Long Wear Matte Lipstick in Sweet Heart | retail value: $10
This is most definitely a liquid lipstick that is long-lasting and does not transfer (I swatched it when I first got it and could not scrub it off in the shower!) Downsides - a bit sticky, and my main complaint is that Boxycharm has sent me almost an identical lip product like 5 TIMES! This might be the one downside to Boxycharm - I believe they are sending products for universal skin tones (though we did recently fill out a color profile) but can we PLEASE get an all-flattering red or coral or pink??

TOTAL VALUE: $172 (priciest one yet!!)



Please fill me in on the beauty loves of your life, currently! Thanks for reading.

P.S. I'm out the door, on the way to the beach for a long birthday weekend. TTYS!
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