Ouai Cool

I never thought the day would come when I stopped using volumizing shampoos and conditioners and switched to products promising to repair my hair, but alas, going blonde requires some haircare overhaul. Although I go a (way too long) period between highlights, all of the bleach takes a toll on my strands. I wanted to try something both hydrating and sulfate-free, so perusing Sephora brought me to OUAI Haircare. This line, crafted by celebrity hairdresser Jen Atkins (of Kardashian and J. Lo fame), promises to repair my ends and preserve my color. The scent, reminiscent of soft rose soap, is not overpowering, and the silkiness of my hair, formerly hay-like, is a pleasant surprise. I've only used the two products a few times, but hopefully I'll fall ouai, ouai in love with this line.

Available at Sephora and OUAI Haircare.

Hello There

Welcome! I'm very excited to bring you my latest endeavor. Longtime readers will know my blog was formerly called "Valley of the Dolls," but I wanted this website to reflect my personal style and philosophy more closely. I bring you The Grey T Shirt!

Why The Grey T Shirt? 

Looking in my closet, I realized there was one article of clothing that I did not seem to be in short supply of: heather-grey t shirts. There is always that item in your closet that you can't live without, and for me, the answer was very clear. Jeans? Eh. White tees? They're okay. To me, a grey t shirt is a classic piece; it can go with anything, it can be dressed up or dressed down, and it can be worn to fit each person's individual style. The perfect grey t shirt is something we can always reach for. That's what I want this blog to be for you: a place that speaks to you, a place that you can visit for inspiration over and over again. The Grey T Shirt is style, substance, and comfort, all wrapped in one pretty (if I may say so myself) little blog.

So stay a while, enjoy yourself, and be sure to check back often for lots of fun posts. If you have any comments, ideas, or just want to say hello, be sure to leave a comment down below. Lots of love, and thanks for joining me on this new adventure! Xx

On haitus...

I'll see you soon. ;)

Monthly Must-Haves: March

Did you hear? It snowed today here in Michigan, breaking a record from 1880 with a total of 94.8" of snow this winter. Lovely, right? Yesterday, it was almost 70 degrees in the morning, and today I was pulling out my boots again! When will it ever end?? Just when I was getting exciting about pulling out my favorite springtime beauty products, I'm right back to slathering on facial cream and using hand lotion like it's nobody's business. The forecast for the rest of the week looks less bleak than today, so I'll stay optimistic that I'll be wearing my favorite spring Chloé fragrance soon.

This winter, I tried lots of new products and found some new favorites that will become part of my permanent arsenal. I figured I'd share my most-used products from March. Here's to hoping that April's favorites are more suitable for sunshiny days!

Clarisonic Mia 2: There is absolutely zero exaggeration in me saying that the Clarisonic is a lifesaver. We all hear bloggers and gurus wax poetic about how great a Clarisonic is for your skin, but until you've tried it for yourself, you won't be prepared for how beautiful it makes your skin look and feel. I'll do a separate post on my new love for my Clarisonic, but know that I've been using it every single day!
Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Bang: This creamy orangey-red lipstick was my go-to when my face was feeling a little blah. It really brightened up my complexion, wore for a long time, and felt very comfortable on the lips. I like the Revolution formula, and added a few more shades to my collection this month.
Oribe Crème for Style: I kind of have a love/hate relationship with Oribe products. Last year when I was using them, I felt like my hair got really greasy really quickly. It might be because of the fact that my hair is lighter now (meaning a little more texture), but I've been using this cream every day before blowdrying. It keeps my hair nice and sleek, and smells amazing.
Sephora Collection Classic Brow Filler Brush #100 and Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade in Ebony: It's been an ongoing struggle trying to find the perfect product to fill my brows in with. They look dark in person, but in pictures, you can barely see them (even though I keep them thick). This waxy cream makes my brows look sculpted and deep. Beware, though: a tiny bit goes a loooong way.
essie Nail Color in Forever Yummy: I've been looking for a classic lipstick red polish for some time, but am never satisfied. This is it.
Josie Maran Argan Oil: My skin is super oily, so the idea of putting even more oil on top of it is terrifying. Like I said, it has been a treacherous winter here in Michigan, and my skin was thirsty. I would dab a few drops of this on dry spots and watch them disappear. I am probably alone in this, but I do wish this oil was scented; I feel like a nice, light fragrance would make it feel more luxurious.
Prada Candy L'Eau: I wore the parfum version of this fragrance last winter, and oddly enough, it would make my chest break out every time I would put it on. This version is still sultry but a little lighter, and had no adverse effects on my skin. Did you see that there is now a Floral version of this scent? I might be in fragrance trouble…
Rimmel London Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara: I'm not really sure what the point of the hourglass wand is, but the formula is a beautiful inky black that allows me to wear multiple coats without looking clumpy or flakey. A new favorite formula, for sure.

What were some of your beauty necessities last month? Are there any products you're really hoping to try out this spring? Did it snow by you this week? Leave comments, and I'll talk to you all soon! Xx

Spring Fever

The other day, I was browsing through my "Loves" at sephora.com when I realized something odd: nearly every item was a flowery pink, peach, or lavender shade, and several items mentioned "rose" or "flower" in the name. Sure, my style is feminine, but I was never one to brand myself as "girly." The proof is in the pudding, though, and with spring (hopefully!) around the corner, I'm begging to be bathed in shades of delicate blossoms and blooms. Here are some of the beauty picks I'll be pining after come springtime:

1. L'Occitane 'Pivoine Flora' Hand Cream. ($12)

2. Formula X for Sephora in 'Alive'. ($10.50)

3. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in 'Diffused Heat'. ($35)

4. NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencils in 'Bolero' and 'Paimpol'. ($25 each)

5. Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk Intensive Hydrating Treatment. ($56)

6. Chloe 'Roses de Chloe' Eau de Toilette Spray. ($120)

7. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Lipstick in '007 Lingerie Pink'. ($35)

8. FRESH Rose Floral Toner. ($38)

What's on your spring wish list? Do you live for the ladylike floral shades of April and May, or do you prefer the dark, rich shades of winter? Have a happy Friday, and enjoy your weekend! Keep your fingers crossed for no more snow! Xx

ModCloth presents "Uniquely You"

Happy Thursday! It's been a quick minute since I've posted last, but between midterms and making up the ten million snow days (I'm not complaining), it's been a busy few weeks. Now that we're back in the swing of things (not to mention another school vacation coming up soon - yay!), I thought I'd share with you some exciting new developments over here in the Valley!

A few weeks ago, I was approached by ModCloth to participate in the Uniquely You campaign, where bloggers like me put together some seriously stylish Polyvore creations featuring the best picks from ModCloth.com. If you're not familiar with ModCloth, they are a giant e-retailer offering the most adorable retro and vintage pieces at really amazing prices (remember that adorable mug in my snow day post?). This week's set features the Evening of Extravagance dress ($160, available in sizes XS to 4X), a black and beige lace confection perfect for a glamorous evening out. When I saw the dress, I automatically pictured a crimson-lipped crooner at some swanky French lounge; hence, I present "La Chanteuse."

Have you shopped with ModCloth before? What are some of your favorite pieces on the site? Leave comments, and I promise lots of more exciting news and posts coming up soon! Xx

Sunday Shopping: 50% off at SpaceNK

Happy Sunday! If you're like me, Sundays are for lazing on the couch and doing some online shopping. I've recently become a big fan of SpaceNK, a website offering luxury beauty products (it's a great place to find Oribe hair products; more on that line in a future post!), and lucky for us, they are currently running an amazing 50% off sale. Take a look at some of my picks from the sale below, and click on any of the images to start shopping!

Have you done any online shopping lately? Did you score any awesome deals? If you find anything you like at SpaceNK, let me know in the comments below! Xx

Hey hey, snow day!

It. Is. Cold. I'm talking 10 degrees, feeling like -4. The northeast coast of the United States is absolutely frigid, and Michigan is no exception. Remember this scene from "The Day After Tomorrow" when the helicopters freeze instantly?

Okay, okay, it's not that serious, but even after countless winters and horrible snowstorms year after year, we Michiganders are spoiled babies! Lucky for me, teaching is one profession where inclement weather calls for a day off. I'm talking snow days, baby! I think the only people who get more excited for snow days than students are teachers (although my inner panic at rearranging next week's lesson schedule is slowly creeping in). If you were fortunate enough to stay home today, staying warm and cozy is of utmost importance.

Did you stay indoors today, or were you brave enough to venture out in the cold, cold weather? I know I'll be doing a little snow dance for another day off on Monday! Xx

Hustle Real Hard

If you know me at all, you know that I am a huge movie fan. I watch trailers in my spare time, host award-show parties, and frequent theaters whenever I can. Time off from work this week meant I got to see a couple of films, "American Hustle" and "The Wolf of Wall Street" (more on the atrocious latter in another post). Ever since seeing the initial trailer for "American ages ago, I had high hopes for the film. I was not disappointed, and "American Hustle" has my vote for best film of 2013. Click on the jump to read more!

Christmas Wishes

Just a few of the things I'm coveting this holiday season. Didn't realize it at first, but it looks like there's a definite black and gold theme here! I was lucky enough to receive the items on my list (gift exchange came early this year), and I can't wait to wear my new goods in the new year.

What are some of your Christmas wishes? Any big-ticket items you're hoping for? I hope you all get everything on your list! Xx

Evening Essentials

Packing a clutch for nighttime excursions is quite the task; what I bring with me depends on where I'm going. Weddings, for example, require less baggage than a night on the town (can't remember the last time I did THAT!). Recently, I attended a friend's wedding and made sure to bring these essentials with me. Yes, my lip look requires four products, but more is always more! I don't like to bring too much with me, and honestly, with a clutch this size, it's hard to fit more than a few items inside. I brought a few bobby pins in case my hair didn't feel like holding up, a pick (old habits die hard), license and debit card, cell phone, and an extra pair of earrings (in case I have an accessory change of heart). More than that and I'd be lugging my whole tote with me.

Yves Saint Laurent 'Rouge Volupte' Lipstick in 002 Sensual Silk

NARS Blush in Luster

MAC Lip Pencil in Subculture 
MAC Pro Longwear Lipglass in Patience Please

MAC Prep + Prime Lip

What are some of your evening essentials? Is your clutch bare-bones, or do you haul it all with you? Leave comments below! Xx

Hellllloooo, Beyoncé!

There's no denying that I'm a big fan of Beyoncé's, but when I heard she released an album with a whopping 14 songs and 17 (!!) videos, I was a bit skeptical. Would the videos be typical Beyoncé quality? Would the songs reflect her kind of bizarre-o new Instagram personality (is it just me?), or be as enjoyable as her music in the past? Fear not, my friends. Beyoncé is still queen, and both her songs and videos are pure perfection.

Below is my personal favorite, "Yoncé," featuring supermodels extraordinaire Jourdan Dunn, Joan Smalls, and Chanel Iman. Red lips, black lingerie, and lots of attitude: there's nothing sexier.

Did you download the album last night? Worth the hype, or a total disappointment? Let me know what you thought of Queen Bey's new musical treat in the comments below! Xx

Naked 3: A Tale of Unrequited Love

When I was 18 years old, I fell in love. Not real love, of course, but the kind of impassioned, amorous affection that consumes a teenager who finds a boy good-looking. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep, I couldn't function knowing that this person existed and could one day be my boyfriend. The object of my desires, who we will call "John,"  was your run-of-the-mill teenage Lothario, whispering sweet nothings in my ear and promising a fantastic future together. His work was done; I was his forever! (Teen translation: I was his for a summer.)

Naked 3 Palette: you are my new "John."

Like John, you teased me. I saw you once, and I had to have you. I did my fair share of Internet stalking. Back then, it was logging into MySpace to see who was in your "Top 8" and comment on your profile; today, I check obsessively to see whether or not you're available for purchase (you are not). Why do you torture me so, Naked 3 Palette? Why did I not receive a notification that you were in stock? Am I not good enough for you, Naked 3 Palette??

There are others, of course. Just like there were other 18 year-old-boys I could've turned my attention to, there are other palettes: some cheaper, some probably better-looking, some that are less of a hassle. But nothing will sate me like you can, Naked 3. No other palette offers endless looks of rose-gold radiance, glowy shades of pinkish-taupe just waiting to grace my already-brown eyelids.

This tale of unrequited love is looking bleak, but I don't give up that easy. I will continue my pursuit until your slim, sparkly goodness is in my greedy little paws, and unlike John, Naked 3 palette, I know you know how to make a lady feel beautiful!

Is your Naked 3 story as sad as mine? Or are you living happily ever after? Leave comments below! Xx

Follow Me on Bloglovin'!

Jumping on the Bloglovin' train. It's a great place to keep all of your favorite blogs in a row and stay updated with new posts. Just click on the link below and add me to your blogs on Bloglovin'!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin'.

Wedding Season

December. Yikes. That's the last time I've posted anything on this blog. Between my teaching program, work, and family obligations, I don't know how I've even had time to breathe. I've been a guest writer at LOX Extensions (you'll see a separate post on that later), so that's taken up a good portion of my time as well. I won't make any sweeping promises to post on here six times a week, but with my schedule clearing up a bit, I'm happy to dedicate the time to this blog that it deserves.

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending my great friend Anggie's wedding shower (remember her AMAZING Valentine's Day manicure, previously seen here?). I had such a great time; the decor was so fresh and ladylike, the food was amazing, and the sweets were to die for! And those macaroons you see below? Homemade! It's so nice to celebrate big life moments like this one with friends. With wedding season approaching, I'll need to do some serious dress hunting!

Will you have many weddings or special events to go to this summer? Leave comments below! Talk to you real soon! Xx

Prayers

"When the elderly die, the past dies; when children die, the future dies."

Sandy Hook Elementary School, CT 12/14/2012

Louboutin Nails

Hi dolls! While I can't claim this as my genius handiwork, I just had to share my friend Teslah's amazingly gorgeous manicure. Inspired by Christian Louboutin's Swarovski crystal-studded Dafodile pump, this is one luxe paint job. She went with stiletto-shaped tips, covered in a chunky silver glitter polish (I believe she said she used Essie's Set in Stones; see my review of the polish here) with a lipstick red on the underside. Below, her manicure compared to the Louboutin shoes, worn by the fabulous Beyoncé. Sorry the picture is a little blurry, I guess I got too excited to keep the camera shot still!

Even with a broken middle finger, this mani is fierce!!

 I think this take on the Louboutin manicure is fabulous! So, what do you think? Brave enough to try this look, or will you stick with something more demure for the holiday season? Xx

Paris, je t'aime.

Ahh, wanderlust. Always creeping in and making me wish I was somewhere far, far away. Specifically, 4000 miles away in the City of Lights. I'm talking Paris, people! It's been a dream of mine to go to France since I was a wittle kiddie, and seven years of French classes have only added fuel to the fire.

What is it about Paris that pulls on my heartstrings? I don't know why I have such a connection to this place I've never been to before, but ask me where I would go if I could go anywhere in the world, and the answer will always be, "Paris." The entire French culture is beautiful, but in a relaxed, subdued way. Parisian chic is easy elegance, something that comes naturally to those lucky enough to be native Parisians. This post is dedicated to all of my favorite things French, so click on the jump and allons-y!

Winter Fun

Winter Fun by atrpcevski3 featuring tote handbags

The perfect outfit for chilly winter activities. In soft fabrics and shiny finishes, chic neutrals are never boring. Complete the look with knit accessories and sparkly holiday nails. Enjoy! Xx

This Week's Beauty Purchases!

It's been quite a productive week in beauty buys for me. I haven't had a chance to try everything out yet, but I figured I'd introduce all of the products and we can go into them a little further later on. Let's get started!

NARS Bronzing Powder in Laguna: After a less-than-stellar experience with Too Faced Peach Leopard Bronzer, I thought I'd try this cult classic. I detest super-shimmery bronzers, but the shimmer in this bronzer is almost undetectable; it just imparts a radiant glow. The shade "Laguna" is good for my pale winter skin. Maybe I'll try "Casino" in the summer time.

Maybelline Volum' Express the Colossal Cat Eyes Mascara: Is it just me, or are long product names super annoying? Regardless, I have mixed feelings about this mascara. The curved brush doesn't really do much for me as far as volume, but it helps with curl. I think layering this with another mascara (probably my favorite L'Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black) would look nice. My only issue is that Maybelline mascaras are a real pain to take off.

Essie Nail Polish in Bahama Mama: If you're trying to get in on autumn's oxblood trend but don't want to take the full dive, this is a great way to start. I thought this color would just be a deep fuchsia, but the deep burgundy/maroon color is much more than that. Pretty and rich, perfect for fall and winter. 

Mary Kay NouriShine Plus Lip Gloss in Café Au Lait: I got this lip gloss for free with a top I purchased from Lulu's. Honestly, I thought the gloss I received was a sample size, so I reordered it thinking the retail size would be bigger. I was a little disappointed to find out the petite container is what you get. This gloss is nice and moisturizing, and the color is a great neutral for every day. Would I pay $14 for it again? Probably not. 

Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray: I am so excited for this product, and I haven't even tried it yet. I absolutely loooved Oribe Dry Texturing Spray. Maximista is a "thermal-protective body-builder," and I think using it in conjunction with Oribe Crème for Style will give fantastic results. Did I mention how amazing Oribe products smell? Mmm!

Real Techniques Powder Brush: This is my first Real Techniques brush, and I think it's great. Right now I use an Ecotools Bamboo Bronzer Brush to apply bronzer, and I think it's a little too heavy-handed. For a lighter bronzer application, especially on my pale autumn/winter skin, I think this fluffy brush will do the trick. I had a coupon at Ulta (yay!) and was able to get this brush for around $7 USD. Quite a deal for such a fabulous brush. Now I really want to try the Expert Face Brush. It's supposed to be great for foundation.

YSL Rouge Volupté Lipstick in #001 Nude Beige: This lipstick is creamy. Too creamy? It's too early to pass judgement. The color is a beautiful pinkish-nude, and the packaging is luxe, to say the least. It's a great match for my NARS Fantasia Lipliner Pencil.

Phew! That was a lot. I'm very excited to get better acquainted will all of these products, and I'll definitely keep you posted on what I'm crazy about and what is underwhelming. Have you tried any of these products? Let me know in the comments. Until next time! Xx