BASICALLY BRIT

Style

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

April 18, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Mother’s Day is just around the corner! May 9th, to be exact, which is only three weeks away. Not to worry though, I’ve got gift suggestions to celebrate all of the mamas in your life from your mom to your grandma, sisters and friends.

If you’re looking for a mommy and me look for a Mother’s Day brunch with the fam, check out this adorable matching dress set from Zimmermann. If I were wearing the mama version of this dress, I’d pair it with Tom Ford sunnies, a chic Lee Radziwill bag from Tory Burch and studded Christian Louboutin Wedges.

Jo Malone Earl Grey and Cucumber makes the perfect Mother’s Day Gift and it comes beautifully gift wrapped!

For the beauty lovers in your life, you can’t go wrong with the CE Ferulic serum from Skinceuticals. It is definitely a splurge and I have yet to meet a woman who hasn’t loved it, which makes it THE perfect gift to get for your baby mama! If they already have that and have dry skin, treat them to the La Mer Moisturizing cream. This moisturizer is so luxurious and will be such a pleasant surprise. If you’re looking for a fabulous perfume, I always recommend the Jo Malone fragrances. My personal favorite is Earl Grey and Cucumber because it is light, refreshing and reminds me of the spa. Fragrances can often be personal so a helpful tip to find the right scent for the mamas in your life is to look at what they already have. Just take a picture of their perfume bottle and buy them a new one…I know it will be much appreciated!

I know my mom loves pajamas so I always get her a new pair for Mother’s Day and this year will be no different. I absolutely love this beautiful floral pajama set from Nordstrom. If your mom is like mine and loves the cozy things in life, I’m sure she would also love a Barefoot Dreams blanket or a pair of the ultra light-weight Eva Birkenstocks that will be perfect for running around in this summer.

To help get the ladies in your life ready for summer, I know I would *LOVE* to get a matching swimsuit and pareo from Agua by Agua Bendita! It is a total splurge, but so beautiful!! I also love the mommy and me Mark and Graham straw beach totes. These make the perfect gift because you can customize the colors and add a monogram which is a thoughtful touch. If you’re traveling this summer, I’d suggest getting the MZ Wallace Large tote or the crossbody bag as a gift because these are truly the best bags to travel with and are so stylish. Speaking of travel, every girl needs a great pair of shoes to run around in and I think Veja’s are the best everyday sneaker, check out this all white pair for the summer.

If you’re looking to give your mama friends a nice gift to celebrate them, I think a rosé themed gift is perfect! You can get them a cute bottle of Cameron Diaz’s Avaline Rosé. If you want to add on to that, throw in a Vinglace bottle chiller and a Rosé All Day Sleeping Mask.

My two favorite ladies– my mama and my grandma on my wedding day!

I hope you all have a beautiful Mother’s Day this year and have a chance give the ladies in your life a big hug!

XO,

Brit

Style

Shopbop Sale Takes Up to 25 Percent Off of Spring Favorites

April 12, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Happy Monday, friends!! I am so excited because this week is starting off with one of my favorite sales of the year…the Shopbop sale!! I love this sale because depending on how much you spend, you can save up to 25 percent off of the most beautiful clothes, shoes and accessories!! Here are some of my favorites 🙂

Whether you’re looking to stock up on spring and summer styles or classics you’ve been waiting to splurge on, the Shopbop sale is the perfect time to do it. For the sale, you can save 15 percent when you spend $200+, 20 percent when you spend $500+ and 25 percent when you spend $800+ by using the code STYLE.

What are you buying from the Shopbop Sale?!

XO,

Brit

Style

April Amazon Favorites

April 7, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Who else has been buying the majority of their things from Amazon lately? From coffee to clothes, I buy so much more than I ever thought I would from the online superstore because it is just SO easy, cheap and cute.

Lets start with talking about this printed wrap dress…It is so cute and less than $30!! I have worn it around the house, to the beach and dinner and have gotten so many compliments on it! I know it will be a staple for me this spring and summer.

Collagen Eye Patches, Blue Printed Wrap Dress, Celine Dupe Sunglasses, Powder Blue Sweatshirt, Blue Goyard Dupe, White Linen Pants, In Five Years, Blue Scalloped Bikini, Daisy Sweater, Tan Bow Flip Flops, Sky Blue Tunic, Blue Bottle Cold Brew

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, but I love these Celine dupe sunglasses!! You can get two for $20! Speaking of steals, I love this scalloped edge blue bikini. I got it last year and it looks a lot like the Marysia swimsuits, but for a fraction of the price and offers a lot more coverage. It would be great paired with this blue tunic cover up.

If you’re looking to update your spring shoe collection, you don’t want to miss out on these tan bow flip flops. They are perfect for the beach, running around and could even be shower shoes for the gym or dorm room as they are entirely waterproof.

Blue Bottle iced coffee, BPA-free tumbler

If you’ve been following along for a while, you’ll know that I gave up coffee a few years ago to help ease my acid reflux. But over the last year, I have been treating myself to an occasional Blue Bottle iced coffee. I usually buy these little cans at Central Market, but you can also get them at Whole Foods or on Amazon. They are just the best. I serve mine with whole milk and over ice in this BPA-free tumbler and then usually head out for a long walk with Charlie.

I needed a book for our beach trip and I saw Stephanie Covington, of A Life Well Saved, recommended In Five Years by Rebecca Serle. It is SO good and I have almost finished it in just a few days! Highly recommend this if you’re looking for a light summer read.

What have you been loving from Amazon lately?! Leave me a comment and let me know!

XO,

Brit

Style, Travel

Watercolor Packing List

April 2, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

We are heading back to one of my favorite places…Watercolor, Florida!! As many of you know, we love Watercolor and have been going there A LOT over the past year. I have been visiting this area for about a decade and my husband and his family have been going for pretty much his whole life. To get ready for my trip, I’m sharing my packing list!

Lilac Hunza G Swimsuit, Celine Dupe Sunglasses, Eugenia Kim Hat, Mint Green Dress, Lavender Birkenstocks, Oversized White Button Down, Blue Midi Dress, Blue Ruffled Swimsuit, “In Five Years,” Travel-friendly Sun Hat, Naghedi Bag, Tan Wedges, Away Suitcase

This trip to Watercolor is even more exciting than usual because we’re not only going to enjoy the beach, but we also get to celebrate Easter with our friends at the Chapel at Seaside which is going to be so special.

For those of you who don’t know, Watercolor and Seaside are two communities that back up to one another along the iconic stretch of the beachside highway known as 30A. You can distinguish where you are in this area by the architecture. Seaside is known for having almost dollhouse looking homes painted in pinks, yellows, blues, greens and white and Watercolor is filled with larger homes mostly painted in whites, blues and greens. All of these towns are connected with bike paths so you never have to drive anywhere which I love.

The weather along the Florida panhandle is gorgeous during the month of April and it’s usually a lot less busy than spring break and the summer. Since the vibe in the area is casual chic, I’m packing mostly dresses and pastel-colored swimsuits. I never go to the beach without packing a few sunhats…I live for my Eugenia Kim hat and it is just amazing, but it is kind of a hassle to pack. If you’re flying or don’t want to deal with bringing a big hat, check out this foldable one I found for less than $10. I use it way more than my other hats and I get so many compliments on it.

Have you been to Watercolor or anywhere on 30A? What are your favorite things to do in the area?

XO,

Brit

Wellness

Five Minute Makeup Routine

March 31, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Makeup has always been a hassle for me–something I hate having to put on, but also necessary to keep me looking somewhat put together. When I swapped my foundation for tinted sunscreen a few years ago, I felt like I could actually enjoy my day while wearing “makeup.” I add a few more elements to my five-minute makeup routine, check it out below!

Makeup Brushes, Bronzer, Blending Sponge, Tinted Sunscreen, Concealer
Aquaphor, Blush

Before I apply my makeup, I do my full skincare routine. Once that is all done, I start by applying the tinted sunscreen on my face and neck…I just use my hands to apply it. Next, I put on under eye concealer. I have been using the Giorgio Armani Power Fabric Concealer in Shade 2. I cannot say enough good things about this concealer. I have dark circles and this concealer really makes them disappear. I apply the concealer using the wand it comes with and then I blend it using a Blending Sponge.

Next, I apply the bronzer. I love the Hoola Benefit Bronzer because it acts as a bronzer and contouring kit all in one. I use the brush the bronzer comes with to bronze and contour my face. Then, I apply another layer of concealer and finally, I add the Blush. I really love the blushes by Bobbi Brown because they don’t irritate my skin and I think they come in the most beautiful colors. To blend all of the makeup I use the large Luxie brush and I just love it.

I really only wear mascara for holidays and major events (even during a non-pandemic year) so I didn’t include it in this routine. From beginning to end, it should take you only five minutes to apply. It will leave you looking fresh-faced and dewy for the whole day!

XO,

Brit

Food, Wellness

Weekly Meal Planning

March 22, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Meal planning–which is different than meal prepping, has changed my life completely and has made it better both physically and financially. Rather than cooking all of my meals for the week on Sunday and then putting them into containers to eat throughout the week, I just plan what I’m going to make throughout the week and make a concise grocery list. By being organized about what I’m going to eat and buy, I rarely waste food and save a lot of money.

Every Sunday I meal plan for our family. I start by pulling out my cookbooks to get inspiration for the meals I will cook during the week, then I take a look at what I already have in the pantry, refrigerator and freezer and finally, I make my list. I usually only plan meals Monday-Thursday because by the end of the week I’m tired and want to go out for dinner or we might have plans.

Once I’ve decided on what I’ll be cooking for the week, I make my list and try to organize it by where each item is located in the store. For example, I put all vegetables together, all meats and fish together, etc. By doing this, I can clearly see what I need from each area so I don’t end up at the register and realize I have forgotten the zucchini I need for my meal one night.

Make your list and check it twice! My sister-in-law got me these grocery notecards from Katie & Co. in Houston and I am so in love with them!

I started getting passionate about meal planning when I moved to Houston seven years ago. First and foremost, I had gained 15 lbs. from eating out too much and I was also looking to save money because I pretty much made no money at my first job in Houston, Neiman Marcus. Through meal planning, I actually learned to cook pretty well and it has become a hobby and passion of mine. Meal planning really saved us during the first months of the pandemic because I was able to get creative with what food we did have and make really delicious meals.

I live for the produce section at Central Market…my happy place.

I think it’s essential to have a plan when you go to the store. I don’t have a lot of free time so I don’t want to have to go to the store multiple times a week. By making a well-thought out list, you can save yourself a ton of time and money by not buying things you don’t need or forgetting things you really do need.

Voila! All done with grocery shopping for the week!

The best part of meal planning is that once you’re done with the shopping, all of your hard work is over for the week (in terms of food.) There’s no last-minute stress about what you’re going to make or do for the family because that’s all done…you just have to cook it!

Happy cooking, friends! I hope you all have a happy and healthy week ahead of you!

XO,

Brit

Style

Easter Style

March 21, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Easter is just two weeks away! I love Easter because it symbolizes rebirth and it’s basically a pastel haven. Whether you celebrate at church or on the beach, I’m sharing my favorite Easter looks for this spring.

First and foremost, this pink SWF dress, y’all. I loved it for Valentine’s Day and I love it for Easter. It is so cute, comfortable and currently 25 percent off at Saks. I paired it with wedges and my favorite Pamela Munson bag, which makes an ideal look for a day time church service.

Pink Midi Dress, Yellow Sandals, Yellow Polka Dot Dress, Sun Hat with Ribbon, Lilac Hunza G Swimsuit, Tan Wedges, Blush Pink Belted Dress, White Mini Purse, Mint Green Dress, Lavender Pool Slides, Colorful Bracelets, Tan Bow Sandals, Designer Easter Eggs

The amount of gorgeous pastel dresses this spring just has me so overwhelmed and happy. From pink to mint green and yellow polka dots, you will look stunning no matter where you celebrate your Easter Sunday. If you’re looking for a fun addition to an Easter egg hunt, check out these designer eggs from Haute and Cool.

All about the details. Paired my dress with wedges and a gorgeous woven bag…perfect for Easter.

How are you celebrating Easter this year? Will you be wearing any of my Easter looks? Leave me a comment and let me know!

XO,

Brit

Wellness

De-stressing During a Pandemic

March 19, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

De-stressing is the last thing I thought I’d be doing over the past year, but it turns out that I have been. Throughout the past year, I’ve lived through a pandemic, moved to a new city and left my job…according to most statistics, I should be a mess, but according to my doctors, I’m in the best health of my life.

In January of 2020, my OBGYN told me that if I didn’t get my stress under control, I would never be able to get pregnant. I didn’t realize how stressed I was and that I was running myself ragged for no reason until the pandemic hit. What was the point of working out in the morning, working all day, working out again in the evening and then going home to cook a meal? I used to try to squeeze three days into one and I don’t think that’s something to be proud of.

My baby Charlie has brought me so much joy this year.

Since January 2020, my life has done a 180. It has taken me a while to understand what has happened to me over the past year and at times I have felt like a total failure, but I’m beginning to realize that I’m exactly where I need to be doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing.

The other day I had my six-month dental appointment and they had to take my blood pressure twice because it was shockingly low. For as long as I can remember, my blood pressure has been around 120/80–which is teetering on pre-hypertension, but this week, it was 102/66. After my appointment, I couldn’t help but reflect on what has changed in my life to get me in such a relaxed state.

What I’ve Changed:

Got a puppy
Stopped working a 9-5 job
Cut back on drinking
Let go of toxic friendships
Started Meditating

There are endless studies that describe the benefits of having a dog, but it is really crazy to think about the positive impact Charlie has made on my life. Not only do I have a constant companion, but because Charlie is still a puppy, he has A LOT of energy so we are always outside and walking, which has been great for me. His endless cuddles and kisses are also the best!

As far as working goes, I never planned to quit my job last year. Our move to Austin was not my decision and I didn’t want to leave my job, but looking back it was so necessary. I had hit a wall in terms of growth and I don’t think I realized just how stressful and upsetting that was for me. I was trying to do so many things at once that it is amazing to me I didn’t go crazy. Driving all around Houston to get to work, to get to the gym, to get to the grocery store, to attend every event I was invited to…It was honestly insane. Although I miss my life in Houston at times, I think I’m a much better person today than I was a year ago.

In June of 2020 I decided to reevaluate my drinking. Like most people during lockdown last year, I started drinking more than I should have. I don’t know if other people experienced this, but the more I drank, the more upset I would get about my situation and my husband and I began fighting a lot. I realized that drinking was at the root of most of our arguments so I decided to cut it out for a while. I still drink now, just very moderately and definitely don’t when I’m already in a bad mood.

Letting go of toxic friendships is probably one of the best changes you can make in your life. I’ve let go of several friendships in my lifetime, but last year I let go of one that had been hugely impactful on me. For years, people around me questioned why I was friends with this person, but I never saw what they saw. At first it was hard to not have this person in my life who had been there for so long, but in time, I realized that my life was so much less complicated without them in it. My dad always said that you become the five people who you are around the most, so if you have someone in your life who you think is toxic…LET THEM GO. Don’t wait, don’t give them a second chance. Move on and be around good people who bring positivity into your life.

Meditation has brought so much peace to my life. I never really thought about trying it, but in February I was having trouble sleeping so I decided to download the BetterMe: Meditation and Sleep app and give it a shot. This app has completely changed my sleeping habits and now I can fall asleep quickly and stay asleep.

Obviously I haven’t been able to see my friends as much as I would have liked to over the past year because of the pandemic, but when I do see them, most of them remark on how much I’ve changed this year. From saying that I seem more clear-headed and lighter to even glowing and happier, I have to agree with them that I am in a much better place.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you’re running on a short fuse, I encourage you to look around at your life and see what you can eliminate or change to make yourself happier and healthier.

XO,

Brit

Style

Five Denim Styles I’m Loving for Spring

March 18, 2021by Britni McAshanLeave a Comment

Skinny Jeans are apparently out so I needed to look to some other styles for inspiration this spring. Although I’ve loved skinny jeans for more than a decade, I have to agree with my Gen Z friends that there are more flattering styles out there. From Straight leg to mini boot cut, I’m breaking down my five favorite styles for you to try in the denim world this season.

Last year, I fell in love with the Levi 501 jeans that everyone raves about. I’ve also branched out or back to loving flare jeans…I think Veronica Beard does them perfectly and you can get this spring wash for under $100! Mango makes really good jeans too. The washes are a little funky, but for $50 a pair, I think it’s ok to experiment a little.

Are you still wearing skinny jeans or have you too branched out with your denim style?! Leave me a comment and let me know!

XO,

Brit

Wellness

Spring Skincare Essentials

March 16, 2021March 17, 2021by Britni McAshan1 Comment

Skincare is an integral part of my life and every season, I change up my routine a bit to keep up with the changing weather. I recently celebrated my 31st birthday and am proud to say I’ve never had botox or fillers. I rarely wear makeup and I think the combination of staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen and having a *strict* skincare routine has made my youthful glow stick around.

What I use:

CE Ferulic by SkinCeuticals, Replenishing Face Wash by SkinCeuticals, PMD Facial Brush, Eye Authority Eye Cream by Hydropeptide, Earl Grey and Cucumber Perfume by Jo Malone, Tinted Sunscreen, Glycolic 10 Overnight by SkinCeuticals, Eye Masks by Hydropeptide

I recently switched to the PMD brush from the Clarisonic I had been using for EIGHT years! I was so scared to make the change because I didn’t want to break out from using a new brush, but when Clarisonic went out of business, I could no longer buy new brush heads so I had I had to switch. And… I am so happy I finally did!! I LOVE the PMD brush for many reasons–financially, it makes a lot more sense than the Clarisonic brush because it is only $69 (currently on sale!) and I will never have to buy new brush heads. I have also seen a huge improvement in my skin. The brush has four speed settings–two that are for cleansing and two that are for massaging–I use the latter two to apply my serums and moisturizers.

Applying the Replenishing Face Wash by SkinCeuticals to the PMD Facial Brush.

During the pandemic, I began only washing my face in the evenings because I never really left my house during the day. In the morning I usually apply the Eye Authority Eye Cream by Hydropeptide and Tinted Sunscreen. When I wash my face at night, I begin by applying astringent all over to pick up all of the dirt that has built up from the day. Once I’ve done that, I rinse with water and begin cleansing my face using the PMD Facial Brush with the Replenishing Face Wash by SkinCeuticals. Unlike the Clarisonic, the PMD brush does not have a set timer so you can use it for as long or as little as you’d like. I do it for about a minute and once the soap has lathered, leave it on your face for a bit to soak in all of the nutrients.

By leaving your cleanser on for a few minutes like you would a mask, your skin has time to soak up all of the nutrients.

I have been using the Replenishing Face Wash by SkinCeuticals since January and am SO happy with it! It leaves my skin feeling silky smooth and cleans really well. Once you cleanse your face, rinse the soap off with cool water and apply toner. After that, I put a drop of the CE Ferulic by SkinCeuticals serum on the PMD Facial Brush and set it to the third setting which is like a little massage. I apply this all over my face and neck and then every other night, I put a drop of the Glycolic 10 Overnight by SkinCeuticals. To finish, I use the Eye Authority Eye Cream by Hydropeptide.

I hope you all have a great night and remember to wash your faces!

XO,

Brit