22 Phone Wallpapers for September

Happy September!  If you're one to change your phone background seasonally, this post is for you.  I gained some inspiration from the list of "National Holidays" and decided to round up some phone wallpapers that I've come across on Pinterest.

September is National Yoga Month, marks the first day of fall (September 22), and a bunch of random (probably made up) holidays such as:
September 5 - National Cheese Pizza Day
September 7 - National Beer Lover's Day
September 16 - National Guacamole Day
September 22 - National Pepperoni Pizza Day
September 28 - National Drink a Beer Day
September 29 - National Coffee Day

I'm not really sure who comes up with these holidays, but I can almost always get behind any that involve food, drinking, or animals :)

Hope you enjoy these 22 wallpaper options!

♥ always
Allison

All images found on Pinterest

Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum. Does it work?!

Over the past few years, I've really been trying to take skincare more seriously.  I enjoy trying new products to see what works and what I actually notice a difference from.  Skincare products can also be a little intimidating because there are SO MANY OUT THERE and all sorts of different skin types.  When I found out that Influenster was sending me a Murad product, I was beyond excited since I've used their products in the past and knew I liked them.

So often on social media, you'll see people sharing the quote, "Too blessed to be stressed" but if I'm being completely honest, we're all stressed and the last place we want this to show is on our face.  The product I received is the Murad Revitalixir Recover Serum, which is available at Sephora, Ulta, and Murad.com.  The Revitalixir Serum is a product for face and eyes; it addresses stress-induced aging, revives for a quick pick-me-up, and is good for all skin types.  The serum has little plum-colored spheres inside and it smoothes out stress lines, reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes, restores vibrancy right away and over time, boosts softness, and moisturizes.  Basically, this product is said to do it all.

Not to mention it's also free of parabens, sulfates,  and phthalates.

So I put the product to the test.  Ever since my birthday in July, I noticed the lines on my forehead had become increasingly more noticeable.  Maybe it was because I was looking at my face closer, maybe it was because my skin was a little bronzed from summer, maybe it was from aging, but whatever the cause, I became very aware and self-conscious about them.  I started searching the internet for different products to use and then my Murad Serum arrived.

Basically, I immediately fell in love with the product.  My favorite part is that it is used on both your face and eye area (I'm a BIG FAN of multi-purpose things, anything to cut down time and using a product for multiple purposes is a big plus in my book).  Everyone is busy, so not having to fuss with a few different bottles or jars in morning and night is a perk.  Also, lets not forget storage space and traveling!  The scent is very light and pleasant.  The product glides over your face and completely covers with one pump.  The serum also has an iridescent pink shimmer, adding a pretty, natural glow to the skin (which means no need for highlighter if you're in a hurry or if the highlighter makeup isn't your jam).  And the part you've all been waiting for, the lines on my forehead were drastically reduced!

The pricing for the product is a little steep (in comparison to drugstore brands), at $89 a bottle.  But like I said, a little bit goes a long way.  I find that people have a tendency to overuse skin and hair care products when realistically, you only need a small amount.  Expensive products last just as long as inexpensive if you use them correctly.  One pump is plenty to cover your whole face and eye area so the serum will last months.  Also, you're getting a face and eye serum in one so that's half the product you have to purchase.  I'm hands down obsessed with the Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum and plan to continue using it regularly.

I received the Murad Revitalixir Recovery Serum for testing but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

♥ always
Allison

5 Favorite Fitness Apps That Keep Me Motivated

Can you believe that school has already started back up and that fall will be here before you know it!?  And I hate to be a downer, but winter comes after fall so that means the hibernating months are quickly approaching.  It can be hard to find the motivation to stay fit when you're bundled up under layers of clothing, but you know what?  Spring and summer will be here again after winter so instead of hitting the crunch period to get that summer bod in shape when the time rolls around, why not make fitness more of a priority?  Some of you reading this probably already do, and some of you may have the "I'll start tomorrow" mentality.

 Personally, I don’t really like getting out of my element at the gym so the thought of attempting a new class makes me quite anxious.  I typically stick to what I know and the machines I’m used to.  Also, I prefer to workout solo (listening to music or watching Netflix), so my 5-6 workouts a week have a tendency to get a bit repetitive.  I try to switch some things up daily (yoga, getting outside, etc).  How I stay motivated and working out is because of different apps (and all that “clear your mind” and eat as many tacos as you want stuff).  Here I've rounded 5 of my personal favorite fitness-related apps that help keep me motivated and working out regularly all year round.  Hopefully it’ll help you out, too!

1.  Achievement - Earn money by walking!?  Seriously...The Achievement app links to over 20 other apps (Fitbit, Runkeeper, even Twitter, and Foursquare) and tracks your steps, workouts, health-related posts.  Once you earn 10,000 points, you receive $10!  Cool, right!?  If you're interested in signing up, use my link:  Achievement

2. Runkeeper - Runkeeper tracks your runs or walks (obvi.), from pace, inclines, calories burned, and so on.  The other cool thing about Runkeeper is the ability to manually enter a number of other workouts such as yoga, pilates, elliptical, swimming, spinning, strength training, and more!

3. Charity Miles - This app is really cool because it'll track your steps whether your walking or running, and based on your activity, money gets donated to a charity of your choice!  I have chosen the Alzheimer's Association for my steps to be put towards.

The next two aren't necessarily apps but are YouTube channels...which YouTube can be an app so we're still going to count them :)

4. Yoga with Adriene - Yoga with Adriene is a YouTube channel of 400+ free yoga videos taught by Adriene Mishler and my personal favorite.   YWA is for beginners to advanced yogis alike, and the classes range from 5 minutes to an hour, so hop on your mat and find what feels good!

5. Tone It Up - Tone It Up is another YouTube channel focusing on fitness with workouts by Karena and Katrina.  There are so many metabolism-boosting and sculpting workouts to choose from with TIU so it makes it fun being able to switch it up daily.  The workout also start at about 10 minutes so there's really no excuse to not squeeze a little one in daily!

What are some of your favorite fitness apps, YouTube channels, or Instagram accounts to follow that help keep you motivated?

Trending Now: Rainbow Bright

Normally I stick to a pretty basic wardrobe color scheme: black, white, and gray.  I find it easier to mix and match, and you can easily look put together in a neutral.  But as of lately, I've been really crushing on this multi-color stripe, "rainbow" trend.  Honestly, I think this style inspiration really stems from Taylor's little sequin rainbow number in "Big Reputation".  Ever since I laid eyes on it, I'm pretty much like GIVE ME ALL THE RAINBOW AND SEQUINS.  So there's that.

Image via Marie Claire

Am I wrong to feel like this!?  I didn't think so...so I've searched the internet high and low and rounded up what I've found to be my favorite on-trend rainbow inspired pieces that will surely make you smile.

Insert salsa girl emoji here!  This rainbow dress makes as many statements as possible!  The color palette, ruffle detailing, and one shoulder silhouette makes this dress a no-brainer option for a wedding or backyard BBQ alike.

Vici | Rainbow Bright One Shoulder Dress

This vintage cut dress from Modcloth has a more muted, darker color combination that will easily transition into early fall.  Pack this number in your suitcase when traveling and you have a no-fuss option to throw on and go exploring during the day.  Best of all, it has POCKETS!

Modcloth | Halter Midi Dress with Ruffle Hem

Date night?  Dress = Check

This playful number will be the talk of the town...AND it's 50% OFF!

Grab it before its gone! (There are also 7 other patterns and colors to choose from!)

Nordstrom | Surplice Maxi Dress

Heading to Mexico or anywhere with a beach?  This cheery kimono sleeve maxi dress is easy to throw on for dinner after lounging (and perhaps sipping on one too many cocktails with cute little umbrellas) by the pool all day  :)

Love, Fire | Kimono Sleeve Maxi Dress

Heading out for a night of dancing or perhaps (ahem) to the Taylor Swift concert?  This Topshop rainbow sequin bodysuit will have everyone complimenting you with, "YASSS, QUEEN!" all night long.

Topshop | Rainbow Sequin Bodysuit

This jumpsuit just became your new birthday suit because it was definitely designed for celebrating something.

Topshop | Rainbow Sequin Jumpsuit

Every day is Sunday Funday, weekend vibes in this rainbow-printed graphic tee.

Nordstrom | BP. Weekend Graphic Tee

Dress up a tee and jeans ensemble or dazzle in a dress!  This spectacular style piece will enhance your day, night, and life!

Modcloth | Life's But a Gleam Statement Necklace

This modern rainbow V-shaped pendant necklace is the ultimate finishing touch to add a splash of color to a little black dress.

Anuja Tolia | Rainbow Pendant Necklace

Chunky crystals radiate from the center of this striking statement pendant necklace.

Hespera Jewelry | Crystal Hoop Pendant Necklace

A colorful yet subtle approach to the rainbow trend with these delicate jewel tone crystal earrings.

Estella Bartlett | Linear Rainbow Stud Earrings

Playful tassel statement earrings are perfect for summer months when you wear your hair up!

Mad Jewels | Dolce Tassel Earrings

Totally on trend are these rimless mirrored lens aviator sunglasses!

Nordstrom | BP. 60mm Oversize Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Embrace the hue-heavy accessories with this striped clutch that pairs with pretty much anything!

Modcloth | Take Color Straw Clutch

Are you embracing the colorful trend or sticking to a more neutral wardrobe!?

♥ always
Allison

Removing Coffee Stains - At-Home Teeth Whitening Reviews

This post was sponsored by Smile Brilliant. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Being a multi-cups a day coffee drinker, I've known my teeth could use a little help on the

whitening side. The only whitening experience I have had in the past was using drugstore

whitening strips (which I don't recall noticing a huge difference) and then I brush with the Crest

3D White toothpaste daily. When I was approached by Smile Brilliant for a collaboration, I was

very intrigued and excited to learn more about the company. After looking at some before-afters

and reading about Smile Brilliant, I was ready to give it a try.

Shortly after filling out a quick questionnaire, a box arrived in the mail with a kit including molds

to make my own impressions of my teeth. Detailed instructions and whitening syringes are also

included in that box. This kit has a top and bottom mold, three containers of catalyst, and three

of the base. Three are included in case you happen to mess up one (which I did), so the extra

makes the process much less intimidating since there's a backup. After mixing the catalyst and

base together (sort of like playing with a putty), it gets placed in the mold then put in your mouth

until it hardens around your teeth. Once the impressions are set, you'll simply package them in

the pre-paid shipping envelope that arrived with the kit and drop in the mail.

Within a few weeks, your custom fitted trays will arrive and then it's time to start the whitening

process. Because the whole process can be a bit time consuming, the instructions read that it's

best to whiten before bed. A few times I whitened at night, a few I did in the morning if it was

more convenient. The whitening and desensitizing gels are applied to the trays in a thin line

using the syringe. Recommended time for whitening starts at 45 minutes with the option to

wear for up to 3 hours. Due to teeth sensitivity, I started with the 45 minutes then worked up to

an hour. After whitening, you remove the trays, rinse and dry, brush your teeth then apply the

desensitizing gel, which you wear for 15 minutes. The desensitizing gel definitely helped with

any sensitivity I was feeling. After all of that is done, there's no eating or drinking for 30 minutes to

achieve the best results.

Since the trays are custom fitted, they fit comfortably, allowing you to be able to talk relatively

normally and go about things like you would at home. During my whitening sessions, I've done

yoga, cleaned the house, and just relaxed while getting a brighter, whiter smile without the

hassle of dentist visits for a professional session.

Did Smile Brilliant work? YES! I've noticed my teeth are whiter than before and have actually

had people tell me that my teeth look great, making me more confident with my smile. Honestly,

I hadn't noticed how coffee stained they were until approached by Smile Brilliant and taking my

"before" photos.

Had I been able to give up coffee during the whitening process, I'm sure the

results would have been better, but overall I'm happy with the results I achieved. Would I

recommend Smile Brilliant and use it again? Yes! Due to the convenience, custom fitting,

professionalism of the product, and positive results, I would 10/10 recommend.

Want to achieve a whiter and brighter smile as well? Of course you do! I've teamed with Smile Brilliant for an exclusive discount and giveaway. Shop with Smile Brilliant and receive 15% OFF your purchase with the code always-allison15. Additionally, one lucky winner will win a $149 credit to Smile Brilliant! Simply follow the link to enter:

Smile Brilliant Giveaway

Giveaway will close on Tuesday, June 19th and open to USA, UK, Australia, and Canadian residents

♥ always
Allison

Tooth Whitening Gel

Summer Outfit Ideas: What to shop now

Summer is almost here which means festivals, concerts, carnivals, and other outdoorsy things like drinking rosé on a patio.  In this post, you'll find some must-haves to look cool and stay cool all summer long.

1.  Free People Torn Up Jumper - An overall dress is basically the new romper.  Throw a tank, crop top, or tee underneath and you have a go-to simple outfit that looks effortlessly cool.

2.  Lulus Boho To Dy For Blue and White Two-Piece Maxi Dress - Easy-breezy boho style perfect for a festival.  The even better part of this matching set is that you can mix and match with a different top or bottom!

3.  Lulus Baez Blue Chambray Maxi Skirt - I'm a sucker for a maxi skirt and this is flawless for trips to the farmers market or that rosé on the patio.

1.  Lulus Lost in Paradise Maxi Dress - This dress is ready for an adventure.  A deep-v neckline and sexy open-back style will surely heat things up this summer.  Bonus:  This dress is available in 6 other colors!

2.  Hanes x Karla The Crop Tee - Face it, there's no such thing as owning too many white tees and this cropped one pairs perfectly with high-waisted shorts, or wear it under the jumper and with the maxi skirt from above!

3.  PrettyLittleThing Printed Maxi Kimono - After soaking up the sunrays during the day, the air can feel a bit chillier at night.  Throw on this fun, bold maxi kimono and continue the summer fun!

Backpacks are amazing for if you're going to be on-the-go all day.  Unlike a cross-body that can start to get heavy on one shoulder, backpacks distribute the weight evenly so if you're at a festival running around from one artist to the next, you'll have all the necessities (and extras) with you at all times, nix the pain.  These three are neutral enough to pair with any outfit!

1.  Urban Originals Hide & Seek Vegan Leather Backpack

2.  Madewell Lorimer Leather Backpack

3.  Jules Kae Greta Backpack

When it comes to shoes, I love something that's unique yet neutral.  All 4 of these would mix and match with so many different options.

1.  Lulus Koren Leopard Espadrille Slide Sandals
2.  Steve Madden Gills Camouflage Flatform Sneakers
3.  AEO Wide Band Gladiator Sandals
4.  Free People Royale Flat

Which items from above are you lusting over for summer!?

♥ always
Allison