ctb test

The Best High Impact Sports Bra

I wanted to take a moment to talk about a sports bra that I have been loving for a while now since it is fully tested and true!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Wacoal: Underwire Sports Bra / Adidas x Stella: Ultimate Climacool Tights / Adidas: Tubular Viral 2 Sneakers / BaubleBar: Mini Monogam Necklace / Apple: Apple Watch(review) / Invisibobble: Hair Ties
I actually bought this sports bra during the Nordstrom Sale this past year (can see my review of it HERE) when I was in my first round of BBG. I immediately fell in love with the bra and actually returned another one I got during the sale! I'm wearing my normal 34DD size and I think it fits like a glove (and still has since I got it).
So (lets get real for a second) I have a larger chest and high impact workouts are really hard on my chest when I don't have the right support. When I was in cheerleading I used to double up on two sports bras or even sometimes wear a regular bra under a sports bra. Neither of which were comfortable, FYI.
It wasn't until I started BBG (you can see my Q&A of that HERE) that I realized that I really need a sports bra that is going to hold me in place. Thankfully it was around the time of the Nordstrom sale and I was able to test out this one from Wacoal and see if it would work for me.
Thankfully the on a whim purchase lead me to one of the best supportive bras I've ever owned (sports bra or regular). I've always been a big fan of Wacoal bras since high school (they were my first "real girl" bra) and to this day my favorite bras in my closet are Wacoal (the natori bra has been replaced since this blog post).
So what makes this bra so great?
It's supportive (which I've mentioned already) but I want to talk about how it's supportive. It has really thick straps -- that are adjustable in the back -- that keep the bra some slipping or moving around. I mean when you are strapped in, you are strapped in. It also has an underwire underneath which I think is where all the support comes from. The cups themselves are very thin and soft (so so soft) and when laid flat they touch the ground. (think about that vs a regular bra).
It's really interesting because most bras you think would be the most supportive would have thick cups but I really don't think it's necessary! I think it's what makes the bra so comfortable when you're wearing it and working out.
So if you're in the market for a super supportive bra, I would check this out. I don't believe you have to have a large chest for it to work (in the same way you don't need to have a small chest for this to work) -- any and all sizes are welcome! Give it a try on because I know you won't go back once you do!
PS if you think it's ugly and it looks like a grandma bra, you're wrong!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Thursday, January 11, 2018

I wanted to take a moment to talk about a sports bra that I have been loving for a while now since it is fully tested and true! SHOP MY LOOK...

Very excited for todays post you guys! I was overwhelmed with how many of you were interested in learning more about BBG and I can't wait to help answer your questions and take you on my journey!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Alala: Sports Bra / Alala: Score High Waisted Leggings / Nike: Juvenate Sneakers / BaubleBar: Mini Monogam Necklace / Apple: Apple Watch(review) / Invisibobble: Hair Ties

I asked you guys last week to send me questions via Instagram DM for what you wanted to know about the new workout routine Andrew and I are following. If you're familiar, we're doing BBG and we just started week 5 this week (it was rough) but I do feel great and am really excited to share more below:

Q: What is it?

A: BBG stands for Bikini Body Guide and it's a 12-week (also goes up to 24) workout plan created by Kayla Itsiness (a personal trainer in Australia).

Q: Where can I buy it?

A: On her website under her "ebook" tab. Or if you have a nice friend/sister/mom who has it, they can send it to you (that's how I got it).

Q: How much does it cost? Is it worth the money?

A: It looks like it's $56 online -- and while I didn't purchase it, I do believe it's 100% worth the money. I know her app is more expensive (the Sweat app -- like $20 a month) and I've never opened it so I can't talk to the price or the worthiness of it. We're really just talking about her PDF guide!

Q: What made you start BBG?

A: I think what originally made me start it (like a year ago) was seeing the results from others on her Instagram page. It's hard to dispute all the people saying such amazing things. I gave it up after 4 weeks (more on that below) and just recently picked it back up a little before the holidays because I wanted to live a healthier lifestyle.

Q: How do you follow it? Are you looking at your phone during workout?

A: There are a couple different ways to follow the guide, by having it on your phone/tablet or by printing it out and using it that way. I personally just look at it on my phone (under iBooks) but a lot of my friends use printouts to bring to the gym.

You can see HERE how the guides are laid out -- she only has 4 exercises per circuit so it's easier than you think to view it once for the first circuit and again for the second.

Q: Do you use the sweat app?

A: I do not. I only have the PDF and find that is really all I need currently.

Q: Is it easy for beginners?

A: In her guide she does state that: "Due to the high intensity of this training, I do not recommend these workouts for absolute beginners. As stated on my website, these circuits are designed for people who have a very basic level of cardio fitness."

So it really depends on what your definition of beginners is. But no workout routine should be easy for you (it wouldn't really be working out then). I won't sugar coat it -- it's a difficult workout in the sense that it really pushes you in every way -- cardio, full body... But the workouts themselves (pushups, sit-ups, mountain climbers, burpees) are basic.

What I would suggest as a beginner is to take the circuit slow (at your own pace) and maybe break it up by only repeating each circuit once (instead of twice) until you're ready for the full workout.

Q: Is it hard if you haven't worked out in months?

A: Short answer: it's hard no matter what.

Long answer: Here's a good example/comparison: Andrew started it (he modifies the weights) and he was working out pretty consistently for about 3-4 days a week. I started it and the only real exercise I had on a weekly basis was riding my bike to/from work.

We both thought (and still think) the workouts are hard, that they really push you and were both constantly sore for the first two weeks after the workouts.

Q: Can you do it at home or do you need a gym?

A: Short answer: you can do it at home but it's easier if you're at the gym.

Long answer: The first time I was doing BBG, I was working out in my apartment (using my ottoman as a bench -- some people use a chair) but I already currently own 8lb weights and a jump rope. For weeks 1-8 you'll need those three things (and a mat if you don't want to lay on the ground). But for weeks 9-12 you'll need items like a bosou ball. But I firmly believe that you can do this from home as long as you have those items.

This time doing BBG, since it's Andrew and myself, we use the gym and it's pretty great!

Q: How long does each workout take? How often are the workouts?

A: This is what I LOVE about BBG. In total its only 28 minutes long and you only workout 3x a week. I usually do Monday/ Wednesday/ Friday workouts and each day consists of two circuits that you do as many times as you can for 7 minutes and do the whole set twice. So it looks like this:

Set timer for 7 minutes, do the 4 exercises as many times as you can in the 7 minutes. Rest for ~1 min. Do the second circuit (same timing as the first). Then repeat again. So you do each circuit twice.

In the beginning, on your off days, you do low intensity training for 30-45 minutes (walking, swimming, yoga, riding a bike) and near the end, you do high intensity training for 10-15 minutes of interval sprints. She explains this all in her PDF!

Q: How flexible is the schedule? What if I miss a day?

A: It's completely flexible! When we were traveling for the holidays we were able to adjust what days we do (never a back to back day) or when we missed some days we just picked right back up when we were back. If you miss a day, I would just pick up where you left off (within reason).

Q: How difficult is it to get into the routine?

A: As far as workouts go, I think this routine is pretty easy to follow along and to get into. Kayla does a great job of laying everything out in her PDF.

Q: How do you stay motivated? (to go to the gym and complete the workout)

A: To be totally honest I could not do this without Andrew. We started doing this workout together and having someone that holds you accountable is a big help. He's also much better about getting up early to workout than I am so having him is really what motivates me.

Also once you start seeing a change in yourself and in the photos you take, you'll be motivated to keep it up!

Q: How did you keep going after the first day/first week?

A: The first week is hard, I agree. Your body just needs to get used to the workouts! It was motivating to me when I was so sore after workouts -- that means it was working!

Q: How did you build up the strength to successfully do the workouts?

A: You build it up over time the more you do them. Burpess in the first week were the worst and now I can get through them with ease. You just need to let your body build itself up. Keep with it and you'll get better! If you don't feel ready to move on to the next week, repeat the week you just did and wait to get stronger that way.

Q: How does it compare to your typical workouts?

A: I wasn't working out before this but when I did workout, BBG is harder but I don't think I was working out properly before (just kind of doing whatever with no schedule)

Q: Do you follow the diet? Are you changing your eating habits?

A: I do not. I want to get the workouts down first and see where I am. I'm not so much trying to lose weight as I'm trying to get in better shape. I did decide to cut out red meat and pork before in late November and I have stopped drinking (but I wasn't really drinking much before). I'm also just making better eating decisions but no diet regimen to follow.

Q: Have you lost weight? Do you see a difference in the fit of your clothes?

A: Like I said above, I'm not doing it to lose weight. I love my body right now and where I am I'm just trying to tone it. I honestly don't really believe in weighing yourself because the scales lie. Muscle weighs more than fat. Thats why Kayla tells you to take photos instead of weighing in. You'll see more through the images than on the scale.

I dont really see a change in my clothes yet but I am only 4 weeks in!

Q: When did you start to see results? Have you seen results?

A: I personally started seeing a difference after two weeks (you look at yourself enough to know). Some people around me have started to see it now (at the end of 4 weeks) but most changes won't come until later!

Q: What are your thoughts?

A: I love it and can't recommend it enough. I wish I had taken photos before I started but I forgot but I do see a change in my self that I am really loving. More than anything it reenergizes your love for yourself and makes you just feel good. I will check back at the end of week 12 and let you know how it is!

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Have you tried it? Let me know in the comments below -- I'm sure other people reading this would love to hear your reviews as well!

If you have ANY more questions, please leave them below and I will do my best to answer them!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Very excited for todays post you guys! I was overwhelmed with how many of you were interested in learning more about BBG and I can't wai...

I know we all like to complain about the weather (it's our thing) but man has it really been cold this past week. Thankfully, we're looking at a high of 40 degrees today and man is that a HEAT WAVE.

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Bernardo: Down & PrimaLoft Coat / J. Crew Factory: Studio T-Shirt / Patagonia: Snap T Puffer Pullover / Spanx: Faux Leather Leggings / Nike: Juvenate Sneakers / J. Crew: Knit Beanie / David Yurman: Pearl Earrings / BaubleBar: Mini Monogam Necklace / Apple: Apple Watch(review) / Sarah Chloe: Monogram Pinky Signet Ring

Today I wanted to show an outfit that doesn't feature a $900 coat (although it really is worth the money and has 1000% kept me warm), that keeps you warm AND that is cute. Why is it so hard to look cute in the winter?

First up is this jacket. It may look thin but it does a really great job at keeping you warm. Whatever it's lined with is heavy duty stuff because we were taking photos in like 10 degree weather/snow storm here and my only salvation was the inside of this jacket.

Like most jackets, I try and stay away from the traditional black (mainly because everyone else has black) and so I opted for this deep blue color and REALLY love it. I love the way its quilted, the length of it and especially how it keeps your share underneath and doesn't look like a bulky puffer jacket.

Next thing I want to talk about is my new patagonia pullover. I actually owned this jacket in a red/pink color but only wore it like twice and sold it about 6 months later so I was pretty weary about buying it again in black. But I bit the bullet and I'm so happy I did! I've been wearing this jacket every chance I get (on the weekends, after workouts, to work) and I just love the fit and the shape of it. I especially love that it keeps you warm outside but won't make you hot indoors.

Finally I got these leggings! I've been hearing everyone and their mother rave about them so decided to test them out for myself. They are 100% worth the hype but not very warm hahah -- but then again what leggings are? My legs were very cold during this shoot and again when I wore them to work last week.

Would you guys want to see a full review on the leggings? Or have you heard enough from others? Let me know down below!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

I know we all like to complain about the weather (it's our thing) but man has it really been cold this past week. Thankfully, we're ...

Wanted to share some products that have changed my skin this past year. Not only are they great but they are AFFORDABLE so there's no excuse to not try them out!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

J. Crew Factory: Studio T-Shirt (only $17) / Monrow: Supersoft Vintage Star Sweatpants (more affordable option HERE) / Vince: Blair Slip on Sneakers / David Yurman: Pearl Earrings / BaubleBar: Mini Monogam Necklace / Apple: Apple Watch (review) / Sarah Chloe: Monogram Pinky Signet Ring

1. SPF -- I don't know how I can stress this enough but you NEED to wear SPF on your face and neck every single day. Even when it's cloudy, even if you're only out for a second, even when its cold. It's so so so important -- I mean you never hear advice from someone older saying they wish they wore less sunscreen.

It's the easiest way to prevent wrinkles and so simple to incorporate into your skincare routine. I use THIS SPF + moisturizer and have for over a year now. I originally bought it because it's what my facialist recommends and have since repurchased it 4 times. It's so affordable (only $22), a great moisturizer AND it has 32 SPF. I use it everyday as part of my current skincare routine (which you can see HERE).

2. Vaseline -- I shared this on Instagram stories this past weekend and you guys were loving it so I thought I'd share it here. So get ready to have your mind blown: vaseline is GREAT for your dry face. Winter always kills my skin -- like SO. DRY. -- and I keep wanting to try some hydrating moisturizer but before I buy anything I text Bonnie (who does my facials) and ask her if they'll break me out. Her answer is just about always "yes." BTW just about every hydrating moisturizer will clog your pores.

So whats the fix? Vaseline (petroleum jelly) -- who knew! You would think that it would clog your pores the most out of anything but I've used it for months and it never has. This will be the cheapest and best way to fix your dry skin! I only use it at night in place of my moisturizer and I wake up in the am feeling hydrated and refreshed and I swear it will change your skin. I had a handful of people who tried it this weekend and all came back with rave reviews.

3. Ice -- Fun fact: you're supposed to ice your face everyday. I'm pretty bad about doing it everyday but I really stick to it when I breakout. If you have a pimple starting to come in, already there or just overall redness -- try icing it. 5 seconds on, 5 seconds off for 5-10 minutes. Every time I get a facial, I ice my face and it truly does help reduce the redness of my spots.

Right now I switch between general ice packs and a full iced mask (which I don't really like so I don't want to link it) but I did just order THIS ice roller that should make things easier. For only $11 I think it's a steal! I already use a jade roller so I think this form of it will make it a lot easier to keep up with.

4. Water -- This one is kind of boring but staying hydrated really helps your skin. People always say 'drink a lot of water!' but not a lot of people listen. I've made an active choice to drink more water this year and I just picked up THIS water bottle that helps you track your water intake hourly.

5. Tula Cleanser -- I am convinced THIS has changed my skin the most over the past year and now I actually will not wash my face with anything else. It also helps that it's one of the only products I've found that I'm clear to use from Bonnie. It's worth all the hype you see from myself and other bloggers. If you don't want to commit to the bigger bottle, they do offer a travel size for half the price!

SHOP MY LOOK HERE:

Monday, January 8, 2018

Wanted to share some products that have changed my skin this past year. Not only are they great but they are AFFORDABLE so there's no ex...

First weekend update of the year who is ready! It's a longggg one so buckle up!

Shopping: (a lot to catch up on)

Clothes:

-Nike funnel neck hoodie

-Bernardo down coat (super thin but REALLY warm)

-New alo leggings

-Adidas x Stella McCartney workout leggings (LOVE)

-Wool and down CK coat (on sale)

-Spanx leather leggings -- they live up to the hype

-Halogen bow back sweater (size down)

-Super warm patagonia pullover

Beauty:

-Clear makeup bag

-Morphie makeup sponge

-Travel size advanced night cream (have heard great things) and eye recovery cream

-Dr Brant under eye cream

-Becca under eye brightening corrector

Reading: I haven't read this week but I'm in the middle of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

NYC Life: There was a HUGE snow storm yesterday and with that I haven't been outside in a day. NOT looking forward to going out today either. It's just too darn cold!

Weekend Plans: We have a busy day Saturday -- cleaning out more of the apartment, blog shoot and traveling up for dinner with his parents. Then Sunday is all work on the blog -- I'm going to f-i-l-m finally and hope to have something for you guys next week!

Most Popular Item This Week: This LL Bean fleece pullover (c/o) featured above.

Throwback Post: My neuLASH review -- I need to get back in the habit of using it daily. It really made a difference.

Favorite Finds:

-A REALLY cute puffer coat

-Cute workout leggings and matching sports bra

-The prettiest adidas sneakers

-Nike training tights

Favorite Blogger Posts Of the Week:

--Grace shared her 2017 review and loved to hear about all her success!

--Courtney gave us all a deep look into her brand partnerships this past year and it was really awesome of her to give everyone peek under the hood.

--A snow day hit Charleston and I LOVED Jillain's photos from the storm!

**PS I would love to feature some you guys -- the ones reading this post -- (who also have blogs) each week, so if you want to be considered for next week, leave me your favorite post from this week and I'll pick my favorite ones!**

Song of the Week: "Full Circle" by Quinn XCII -- Sydney shared this on her IG Story and I loved it! She always has great music recommendations.

A Must Read: *Read at your own risk* This is a super scary story that really f--ked me up when I read it DURING THE DAY. It's this story that's been updated on Twitter basically about a ghost haunting by this kid named Dear David. Get your popcorn ready.

-More light hearted: Frozen (but not dead) Iguanas are FALLING FROM TREES due to 40 degree weather in Florida.

A Must Watch: Finesse by Bruno Mars featuring Cards B. Watch this video guys -- it's AWESOME.

Amazon Purchases of the Week:

Random Stuff

-Finally got myself a water intake taking water bottle (can customize it)

-Trader Joes everything but the bagel seasoning -- I've heard amazing things about this!

-Command picture ledge -- I want to see if these will be good for organizing my sunglasses.

-So random but I want a cute silverware organizer and I found this which is better than what I have but still not the best, so well see how it works out.

-I need to take down my tree like woah and now I'm just waiting for my tree bag to get in!

-Gold plate holder for my decorate plates.

Clothes:

-cute new grey booties with little fur poms!

-Sam Edelman boots that I hope are great for the winter

-Glitter sneakers because I'm trying to be more casual (but still cute)

-STAR SWEATPANTS hellllllyea

Friday, January 5, 2018

First weekend update of the year who is ready! It's a longggg one so buckle up! Shopping: (a lot to catch up on) Clothes: - Nike funnel ...

I must have been extra good this year because I was sure spoiled! Sorry this post is a little late but hope you enjoy!

From Andrew:
-Monogram Pinky Ring -- The best! I love this ring so so much and I'm so excited to finally have a pinky ring!
-Custom Neon Sign -- Like a year ago I talked about how I wanted a neon sign for above my desk but didn't know what I wanted it to say. Andrew made one for me that is PERFECT and was truly such a surprise gift that I love.
-Chromecast -- We're thinking about switching over to YouTubeTV and for that you need a chromecast. Was SO excited to get this but we set it up yesterday and realized that it's literally just streaming your phone to your TV which we did not like. We want an interface that is it's own -- not something you need your phone for.
-Travel Playing Cards -- We love playing cards and these are made superficially for the airplane (they're thinner) and I love them.
-Pocket Knife -- I'm always opening boxes with kitchen knifes or my keys (he always roll his eyes when I do it) and he got me a little swiss army knife for my keychain. It's surprisingly super handy! -Pictures of us -- For the apartment, I love them!!
-Blanket with Dixie on it -- It was more of a silly gift but it was so funny I cried. It's a huge throw blanket with her face on it.

From My Parents:
-Burberry Scarf -- This was for sure my big present and it's soooo soft. Excited to have it for the winter and it really is the perfect accessory,
-Invisibobble Hair Ties -- I love these and now I'm stocked up! They are the best hair ties and I won't go back to the traditional ones. -
A Ton of Kitchen Stuff (for Andrew and I) -- like a TON! We're so excited -Makeup Refils -- like mac fix spray, laura mercier brightening powder, abh brow pencil, and (the best) nail polish top coat.
-Donna Karen Deodorant -- I've only heard great things and so far I'm really loving this deodorant. I don't think I've tried a new once since high school but I'm really into it.
-Travel lint Roller -- I think I need a lint roller for every moment of my life. Now I can carry one in my purse!
--I also got a ton of other little knick-knacks that I love (I'm very fortunate!)

From My Siblings:
-Vince Sneakers -- I've owned the grey pair for about 3 years and these are probably my most worn shoes. I decided to ask for them in black and now I've worn those almost every day since Christmas. So comfortable and chic!
-AirPods -- So excited to finally get these! I've developed mean headaches when I use over the ear headphones because they rest on top of my head. These have been great and cord free. I love them!
-Charging Dock -- I got this with my AirPods and think it's so smart. It charges everything and I've already set it up at my desk. So easy!

From Andrews Parents:
-Jade Roller -- I've heard great things about this and I'm excited to try. I used it on New Years Day to de-puff and I don't know if it worked but it for sure felt good!
-Nordstrom GC -- Because duhhhh I love Nordstrom
-Invisibobble Hair Ties -- more! I'm so excited!!

Thursday, January 4, 2018

I must have been extra good this year because I was sure spoiled! Sorry this post is a little late but hope you enjoy! From Andrew: - Mon...