Saturday, April 26, 2014

Current Favorite Makeup Products! April 2014




Hey guys! Today I wanted to show you a few of the makeup products I've been loving lately for my go to everyday look. I love experimenting with fun makeup looks, but day to day I like to keep it simple but still pretty with a soft shimmery eye, pink lips and cheeks, and natural glowing skin. I think this handful of products is perfect for just that! :)



1. Tarte Amazonian Clay Powder Foundation- This powder foundation is great! Unlike a lot of powder foundations, it gives really good coverage without looking "chalky" or "powdery". It leaves my skin looking natural and not dry at all. It's perfect for everyday light coverage. Plus- It's really fast to apply! I love it for days I don't want to bother with liquid foundation. I also love that Tarte uses more natural ingredients, so I feel good about putting it on my skin on a daily basis. To apply it I use a buffing powder brush from Sephora, which is what I find works best. :)

2. Tarte Bambeautiful Eyeshdaow Quad in "Shades of Clay" - I loooove this palette! The colors are right up my alley! As soon as I saw it, I fell in love. The colors are super smooth and pigmented and compliment each other perfectly. I use the light shimmery color over my eyelid, one of the taupe colors to deepen up the look, and the dark matte brown (perfect dark matte brown!) as eyeliner or to make the outer corner a bit more dramatic! I love the packaging too!

3. Urban Decay Naked Lipgloss in "Love Child"- This is the perfect everyday, light pink lipgloss. It's not too light, not too bright- just right! The formula is smooth and not at all sticky. I don't love the smell, but it's such a great gloss that I don't mind!

4. Too Faced Primed and Poreless Primer- I recently received a sample of this primer, and have been loving it! It smooths out my skin, leaving my pores much less visible. It makes my makeup blend out easily and last longer. I think I will repurchase a full size when I run out!

5. Mac Mineralize Blush in "Azalea in the Afternoon"- unfortunately this blush is limited edition, but it's quickly become a favorite. It's a sheer medium pink with a beautiful shimmer. I love the rosy "glow" it gives without looking sparkly!



Tarte Bambeautiful Palette and Powder Foundation


I hope you guys enjoyed seeing some of the beauty products I've been loving lately! Let me know some of your favorites! 

XoXo, Stephanie

Friday, April 25, 2014

Peanut Butter Cup Green Smoothie


Peanut Butter Cup Green Smoothie
(serves 1)
  • 1 large frozen banana
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder, I use Perfect Fit (or 1 Tbs. cacao powder)
  • 1 Tbs. peanut butter
  • 1 handful of spinach
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
Blend away and enjoy!
XoXo, Stephanie

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Carrot Cake Oatmeal



My favorite cake of all time has to be carrot cake....so when I'm craving something warm and sweet in the morning I love making some carrot cake oatmeal. It's super easy and definitely reminds me of carrot cake! It's warming and comforting and it's perfect for a chilly morning!

Carrot Cake Oatmeal
(serves 1)
  • 1/2 cup rolled (aka old fashioned) oats
  • 1 cup water (or almond milk)
  • 1/3 cup shredded/grated carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice (which is just a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves)
  • 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 Tbs. raisins
  • Topping Ideas: banana slices, almond butter, walnuts, shredded coconut, drizzle of honey
  1. First let's cook the oatmeal! Bring water to a boil, add oats, reduce to medium heat, and let cook  for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally so they don't overflow...
  2. When the oats are almost done, add the spices, vanilla, most of your carrot, and raisins. Stir well.
  3. When the oats are done, transfer in to a bowl and add the toppings! 
Enjoy!
XoXo, Stephanie



Monday, April 21, 2014

Snack Idea:Almond Butter Stuffed Dates with Coconut and Cinnamon!


Dates have quickly become one my favorite snacks! They're practically like nature's candy! I strongly reccomend
using medjool dates, because they are super creamy, think and sweet. They are waaaay better and creamier! Dates are rich in fiber, potassium, and even copper and magnesium. They provide quick energy and are a perfect quick snack! I love eating them plain, but dressing them up a bit with some almond or peanut butter and your favorite toppings totally takes them to the next level! They remind me of eating a peanut butter cup or caramel candy! 

The Super Easy Steps:

1. Open dates with your hands (they should be very soft) and remove the pit.
2. Spread a thin layer 
of almond or peanut butter in each date.
3. Sprinkle with coconut flakes and cinnamon or your favorite toppings!

Other topping ideas:
  • Cacao nibs
  • Chocolate chips 
  • Blueberries
  • Goji berries


Enjoy!
Xoxo, 
Stephanie 




Sunday, April 20, 2014

Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding


I love this chocolate pudding for a healthy dessert, post workout snack or even breakfast! It's fully of protein, fiber, and it's totally sugar free! Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3s and help keep you energized and full! It's so easy to make, I love to have a couple ready in my fridge. I hope you enjoy this chocolate treat!

Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding
(serves 1)
  • 1-2 Tbs. chia seeds
  • 1 tsp. unsweetened or raw cacao powder
  • 1 scoop of a plant based protein powder (I used chocolate Perfect Fit)
  • 1 tsp. cacao nibs
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • dash of cinnamon, optional
  • a few drops of organic liquid stevia (if needed)

1. Mix all ingredients, except the almond milk, in a small bowl or glass.
2. Pour in milk and stir well.
3. Let the pudding sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, or until the chia seeds start to absorb the liquid and the pudding thickens up.
4. Sprinkle with extra cacao nibs and enjoy!

*cacao nibs are basically "nature's chocolate chip", or the raw unprocessed form of the cocao bean. If you don't have these, you can use dark chocolate chips. To keep it strictly dairy free, make sure you use vegan ones like Enjoy Life.
*If you want a lighter dessert, without so much protein, you can just use 1/2 a scoop of protein powder, and add less almond milk. 

XoXo,
Stephanie

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Blueberry Muffin Smoothie!




This blueberry muffin green smoothie is the perfect all around drink..It's full of protein, antioxidants, greens, and natural sweetness! It's perfect for breakfast or re-fueling after a workout! This was my first time trying dates in smoothies (I see so many people on Instagram do it) and it gave the smoothie such an amazing consistency/sweetness- it was thick and extra creamy and gave it such a nice sweetness that I couldn't even taste a trace of the spinach! I cannot explain how adding just one date transforms this smoothie!!! Dates are often called "nature's caramel" and when you add them to smoothies, it tastes like your enjoying a nice caramel shake (but a very slight one to this smoothie). The cinnamon adds a nice "baked muffin" taste the smoothie, while also adding the cinnamon's benefit of regulating blood sugar!  I try out a lot of smoothie combinations... but this one is a new staple! I hope you enjoy, and let me know if you try it out!

Blueberry Muffin Smoothie

  • 2/3 cup frozen blueberries
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1 large medjool date
  • dash of cinnamon
  • 1 large handful, or cup of spinach
  • 1 scoop of an all natural plant-based protein powder* (I use vanilla Perfect Fit
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk 
Add all your ingredients to you blender and blend away! 

Note:
*add 1 tsp. vanilla extract if you use an unflavored protein
 **Frozen fruit is always best! It makes the smoothie much creamier, plus you don't have to add ice! 

Enjoy!
XoXo, 
Stephanie

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Superfood Beauty Salad!


Easy Super Food Beauty Salad! Try it for lunch tomorrow or pack it for school or work this week! Just four simple ingredients!
1. Blueberries- Full of antioxidants! their dark blue color is due to the antioxidant anthocyanin, which helps strengthen eyes and vision. They also contain vitamins A,C, E, carotenoids and flavonoids - all essential to eye health. These antioxidants protect you from free radicals which age your eyes and skin! And there full of B vitamins which give you energy!
2. Walnuts- the highest Omega 3 content of any nut! Omega 3 fat keeps cellular membranes flexible and fluid, optimizing the cells ability to usher in nutrients to prevent dryness and flush out wastes! Their also high in vitamin E which hydrates dry skin. Lastly, their high in melatonin- the hormone that helps you sleep well!
3. Quinoa- (pronounced Keen-wa) The super grain! Well, actually it's not even a grain- it's a seed! It's naturally gluten free! The ancient Incas believed it was a sacred food- for a good reason! Quinoa is an awesome complex carbohydrate to add to your diet. Unlike refined white bread or pasta, quinoa has fiber and nutrients that will actually keep you full and not bloated. It has all 9 essential amino acids, making it a complete and easily digested protein- essential for repairing muscle tissue and building strong hair!
4. Greens! Choose any kind you like! I suggest mixed greens, kale, spinach, romaine, or arugula! Greens are probably one of the single most nutrient dense foods on the planet. Their full of vitamins, amino acids (protein), and Iron. Greens are a an amazing source of vitamin A..and did you know that a diet lacking vitamin A can lead to acne? And the list goes on... A good rule of thumb: the darker the better!

Dress your salad with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic or apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon! Enjoy! Let me know if you try it! Tag me on Instagram @beautyandbananas

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Chocolate Cherry PB&J Green Smoothie!


This morning I made a new smoothie combination and I can honestly say it's one of new favorites! I wasn't planning on posting this as a recipe, as it was a very spur of the moment concoction, but It was so amazing I couldn't not share it with you guys! It's sweet, tart, thick and full of nutrients to keep you energized for breakfast or a as a post workout shake! I know chocolate, cherry, a peanut butter & jelly, and some greens sounds like a lot going on...But trust me when I say it's like a dance party in your mouth! Haha let's get blendin'!

Chocolate Cherry PB&J Green Smoothie
(makes 1 serving)
  • 1  banana (preferably frozen)
  • 1/2 cup frozen cherries
  • 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
  • 1/2 - 1 Tbs. organic peanut butter
  • 1 cup almond milk (adjust to how thick you like your smoothies)
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (I use a vegan protein- Perfect Fit)
  • 1 big handful of spinach
Add all ingredients to your blender and blend blend blend!!!!!! Enjoy!
*See bottom of post for nutrition facts

XoXo,
Stephanie

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Nutrition Facts
Calories: 370
Fat: 7 (based on 1/2 Tbs. peanut butter)
Carbs: 56
Protein: 21
Fiber: 9
Sugar: 30 
Added Benefits: (Based on Recommended Daily Values)
Vitamin A: 95 % 
Vitamin C: 96 %
Calcium: 22 %
Iron: 33%



Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Vegan Gluten Free Brownies!


Hey guys! Today I present you vegan AND gluten free brownies! Last night I was really craving chocolate, and I had to try out a new concoction... Trust me- these are the best vegan brownies I've ever made. I've tried black bean brownies multiple times, only to be left trying to convince myself I'm enjoying a real brownie. I love the "oh so popular" raw date+walnut+cacao brownies- but they are still pretty high in sugar and fat. And most paleo or gluten free brownies always have eggs, which is fine, but sometimes a girl doesn't want to waste all her eggs! When you mix ground flaxseed seed with water it becomes thick and sticky and works as an egg replacer!  Haha so these brownies were born! These are gluten free thanks to coconut flour! Coconut flour is just made from finely ground coconut. It can usually be very tricky to bake with, if you don't have the right proportions, and can be quite drying- but these brownies are very moist and have an amazing texture! Each brownie is around 100 calories, low in fat, and less than 5 grams of sugar per serving! Wanna know how to make these guiltless chocolatey treats! Let's get started!

Vegan Gluten Free Brownies
(makes 12 brownies)
  • 1/2 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened or raw cocao powder
  • 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 Tbs. honey or maple syrup (add more if you want them sweeter- I just wanted them low sugar today)
  • 1/2 tsp. liquid stevia (you can omit if you used more honey)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk 
  • 5 flax "eggs" (5 eggs = 5 Tbs. ground flaxseed mixed with 15 Tbs. water)
  • Dark chocolate chips or raw cacao nibs, optional (I used Enjoy Life Foods vegan chocolate chips and just sprinkled 1 Tbs. on top)
  1. Preheat your oven at 350 degrees.
  2. First, create your flax eggs. In a bowl mix your flaxseed with water. Let it absorb the water and thicken up while you mix your other ingredients.
  3. Mix dry ingredients (coconut flour, cocoa, baking soda, salt) in a large bowl. Whisk well.
  4. Add in your coconut oil, honey, and vanilla and mix well.
  5. Now, your flax "eggs" should be ready, add them in and mix.
  6. Slowly add in your almond milk. You may need to adjust the amount, depending on how dry or runny your batter is. You want it to be thick (but not too thick!)
  7. Pour your batter into a small baking pan greased with coconut oil.
  8. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick come out clean.
  9. Let cool. Store at room temp. for a few days or in the fridge for a couple of weeks!
These are great enjoyed with a glass of almond milk or even a little spread of peanut butter! ;)

Nutrition facts: (per 1 brownie) 
Calories: 107
Fat: 8 g
Carbs: 10 g
Fiber: 4 g 
Sugar: 4 g
Protein: 3 g




Hope you enjoy!
XoXo,
Stephanie

Sunday, April 6, 2014

Prom 2014 Makeup!


Started off with a manicure and pedicure! I went with a classic French Manicure with a rine-stoned accent nail and a pinky-coral, Pansy by Essie, on my toes to match my dress!


Prom was so much fun, I went with two of my best friends, Kathryn and Grace, so it was a super fun girly weekend! I did both of theirs' makeup, so I'll show you exactly what I used! :)

Kathryn, before:






On Katherine, I did a soft bronzy eye, that I amped up with some false lashes. I also added some sparkle to compliment her tiara! ;) On her cheeks, I did a little bit of bronzing and did bright peachy pink cheek and light peachy pink lip with a shimmery gold gloss! 
1. I started off by applying Nars Pro Prime Eye Primer to make sure her eyeshadow lasts all night through prom and to make sure it appears vibrant. 
2. I always like to start with a matte nude blending, like Urban Decay's Naked, to blend through the crease and brow bone.
3. Next, I applied a light gold champagne shadow, Mac All That Glitters, all over her lid.
4. I applied Mac Woodwinked, a deep metallic bronze,on the outer half of her lid to add some depth. I also used a pencil brush to run it along her lower lash line. The strong gold really made her green eyes pop!
5. I deepened up the eyes by applying Mac Espresso Eyeshadow  in a "V" shape on the outer corner and slightly into the crease. I used a small smudge brush to also put some lightly on the lower lash line (mainly on the outer corner).
6. For eyeliner- I used Rimmel's ScandalEyes eyeliner in Brown (which has a beautiful bronze shimmer in it) all alond her upper lash line to stick to the warm color family. I didn't want to use black because I thought it would look too harsh with her coloring and the look I was going for. I smudged it out and went over it with the Espresso color to created a soft diffused liner. I also applied the brown liner in her waterline, to create a "smokier" effect in a soft way.
7. I highlighted the inner corners of her eyes with the Loreal Infallible eyeshadow in Iced Latte to add some brightness to her eyes! This is one of my all time favorite shadows for this!
8. Next I applied mascara, and some Ardell individual false lashes. They add drama to the look, but look super natural!
9. I lightly filled in her brows with Anastasia Brow Powder.
10. For foundation I used Makeup Forever HD foundation (It photographs really well) and applied it with a damp Beauty Blender. I applied Kat Von D concealer, and set everything with Makeup Forever HD Translucent Setting Powder.
11. I added a little bit of Nars Laguna Bronzer to warm up her complexion.
12. I applied a generous amount of Illamasqua Tremble  blush on the apples of her cheeks.
13. I highlighted her cheekbones with Mac's Mineralize SkinFinish in Soft and Gentle.
14. For lips I used Loreal's Julliane's Nude (limited edition) and Rimmel's Stay Glossy lipgloss in Non-Stop Glamour.
15. And lastly, I set her makeup with Urban Decay's All Nighter Setting Spray!






Grace doesn't usually wear much makeup, she keeps it simple with a little brown liner and mascara- so I really wanted to surprise her with a really glamorous look! I decided to go with a soft borne smokey eye (the warm colors would contrast/compliment her turquoise dress) with some soft but strong black liner on the top. She usually doesn't wear a full face of foundation, so I had fun perfecting her already beautiful skin. I kept the cheeks glowy with a shimmery peach blush, and finished with a beautiful peach lip!
1. 1. I started off by applying Nars Pro Prime Eye Primer to make sure her eyeshadow lasts all night through prom and to make sure it appears vibrant. 
2. Again, I always like to start with a matte nude blending, like Urban Decay's Naked, to blend through the crease and brow bone.
3. I applied Mac Woodwinked all over lid, packing it on with a flat brush for a concentrated affect.
4. I added some depth by applying Mac's Bronze on the outer half of the lid. I also applied it all along  the lower lash line.
5. I deepened up the eyes by applying Mac Espresso Eyeshadow in a "V" shape on the outer corner and slightly into the crease. I used a small smudge brush to also put some lightly on the lower lash line (mainly on the outer corner).
6. For eyeliner- I used Rimmel's ScandalEyes eyeliner in Black on the top. I drew a pretty thick line than lightly blended it out with a smudge brush. I also used the same liner in Brown (which has a beautiful bronze shimmer in it) and applied it to her waterline, to create a "smokier" effect in a soft way. 
7. I highlighted the inner corners of her eyes with the Loreal Infallible eyeshadow in Iced Latte to add some brightness to her eyes! 
8. Next I applied two coats of mascara!
9. I lightly filled in her brows with Anastasia Brow Powder.
10. For foundation I used Makeup Forever HD foundation (It photographs really well) and applied it with a damp Beauty Blender. I applied Kat Von D concealer, and set everything with Makeup Forever HD Translucent Setting Powder.
11. I added a little bit of Nars Laguna Bronzer to warm up her complexion. And also contoured her cheek bones by applying a matte bronzer, Too Faced Chocolate Soleil, to the hollows of her cheekbones, around the chin, and temples.
12. I applied Milani's Luminoso Baked Blush on her cheeks, for a soft peachy glow.
13. I highlighted her cheekbones with Mac's Mineralize SkinFinish in Soft and Gentle.
14. For lips I used Revlon's Colorburst Lipstick in Peach. (which I believe is discontinued, but Mac's Ravishing is very similar!)
15. And lastly, I set her makeup with Urban Decay's All Nighter Setting Spray!




On myself, I wanted to also do a soft bronzey eye look but do a brighter lip and cheek that matched the color of my dress!

1. I started off by applying Nars Pro Prime eyeshadow primer.
2. First, I applied Shimmering Buff, from the Tarte BamBeautiful Quad, all over my lid.
3. Using the Urban Decay Original Naked Palette- I applied Naked through the crease/brow bone as a transition color.
4. Next I applied Buck in the crease to define my eyes.
5. I applied Smog, a shimmery bronze, and the outer half of my eye, and also on the lower lash line.
6. Back to the Tarte BamBeautiful palette- applied the dark matte brown in the outer corners. I applied it pretty heavily because I wanted the look to stay light on the lid, but still have some darkness and depth to it. I also applied it on the outer part of the lower lash line.
7. I applied Rimmel's ScandalEyes liner in Black very close to my upper lash line, and smudged it out.
8. Next I applied mascara, and added some Ardell Individual False Lashes.
9. I highlighted my inner corners with Loreal Iced Latte.
10. For foundation, I applied the same thing I used on Grace and Kathryn. :)
11. I filled in my eyebrows with Anastasia Brow Powder and enhanced the arch/shape more with Maybelline's Define-a-Brow pencil. (I like a stronger brow!)
12. I added a tiny bit of Nars Laguna Bronzer just around the outside of my face to warm up my complexion.
13. I used Tarte's Amazonian Clay Blush in Blissful (a bright matte coral) high on the back of my cheeks and applied Illamasqua's Tremble on the apples.
14. I highlighted my cheekbones with Mac Soft and Gentle.
15. For lips I used Chatter Box Lipstick by Mac. It was the perfect bright pink with a coral undertone to match my dress!
16. Lastly, I finished by setting my makeup with Urban Decay All Nighter!




Next morning breakfast! :)


And some super sleepy yoga ;)


Hope you guys enjoyed! Follow me on Instagram for more pictures @beautyandbananas!
XoXo, Stephanie