5 things worth checking out this week

With #NYFW coming to a close, have you ever wondered what it's like behind the scenes? [Man Repeller]

Under Armour's new brand ambassador is showing us that supermodels are tougher then we ever could be! [Refinery 29]

Mornings are literally the worst time of day...here are a few tips to get your life together and  FINALLY be a happy morning person [Byrdie]

These 9 male superheros costumes have been enhanced by Hello Kitty and it's the only thing you need to see to make your Friday even more awesome [The Luxury Spot]

Fall is right around the corner, these buys are under $100 and all you need to look effortlessly chic as the seasons turn [The Glitter Guide]

Insta-Glam: Models to Follow During NYFW

New York Fashion Week is literally the most important time of the year.  I don't care what anyone says, there is nothing more incredible then watching the Internet practically break, because of all of the footage surfacing from the most elite runway shows around the world. We've rounded up the 8 hottest models who's instagram handles you should follow for insider access that will have you feeling like you're in the big tent sitting next to Anna Wintour herself throughout all of NYFW.

Karlie Kloss, Instagram: @karliekloss

A definite fan fav, Karlie is known for her awesome personality and wacky photos. Follow her as she undoubtedly kills it on the runways for some of the biggest designers in the world.

Cocoa Rocha, Instagram: @CocoRocha

Coco's lustworthy Insta is riddled with photos designed to incite the most serious case of Wanderlust by showing the beauty in her surroundings (even if her surroundings are next to a camel or something equally as ridiculous). Her insider photos of NYFW are guaranteed to be visually stunning, like peeking behind the scenes of a Vogue cover shoot.

Cara Delevigne, Instagram: @caradelevigne

A mix between high fashion shots and personal insider photos, Cara will definitely be reporting on NYFW with a high-brow twist...and of course, a side of bacon.

Joan Smalls, Instagram: @joansmalls

Joan Smalls is sure to slay this year at NYFW. Her incredible cheekbones make her Instagram totally gorg, follow her for high fashion shots with a pinch of her offbeat humor sprinkled in.

Miranda Kerr, Instagram @mirandakerr

This VS Angel is looking to break the mold by joining the ranks of the NYFW runways. Keep an eye out for her infectious smile and unmistakable behind-the-scenes selfie guaranteed to have you feeling like you're part of the action.

Jourdan Dunn, Instagram @officialJDunn

Known for being best pals with fellow runway queen Cara Delevigne, these two often cameo on each other's Insta's while party-hopping. Keep an eye out for her taking the runway by storm with the occasional shot of her adorable son mixed in!

Gigi Hadid, Instagram @GigiHadid

The daughter of Real Housewife of Beverly Hills star Yolanda, this up-and-comer is sure to appear a few times at NYFW. Having walked last season, Gigi is sure to stun with her striking features and high-fashion Insta shots.

 Georgia May Jagger, Instagram @GeorgiaMayJagger

No stranger to the catwalk, Georgia walked the London Olympics runway without breaking a sweat. She's sure to make an appearance this season but only her Insta will give us the insider shots we really want...along with the occasional adorable animal cameo of course!

5 things worth checking out this week

Nothing feels better then an organized desk, check out these incredible spaces for all of the back-to-school inspiration you'll ever need [The Glitter Guide] Cara Delevigne is sure to take NYFW by storm, this guide is all you need to cop her street style [Refinery 29]

Nail art is arguably one of the best parts of Fall beauty, get the hottest looks here [Lipstick.com]

The only Internet meme that matters involves Kermit the Frog (WARNING: Don't read this at work, you'll be fired for laughing too loud) [The Luxury Spot]

Put down the hair dryer and pick up your...CitiBike? [Into the Gloss]

5 Favorite Beauty Buys

This summer has been all about easy and effortless beauty, and I've been loving products that simplify my routine without sacrifice. From the launch of the first BB/CC cream brush (yes, you read that right) for creating a flawless face to a new Chloe scent to accompany late summer nights, these five favorite beauty buys will transition easily from season to season.

LUSH Charity Pot, $22.95 at Lush

It’s no secret that Lush cares about both the environment and their customers. 100% of the proceeds from the sales of Charity Pot, an incredibly luxurious hand and body lotion goes to support grassroots organizations that matter in the world (like environmental conservation, animal welfare, and human rights). The lotion itself is made with Fair Trade organic cocoa butter that leaves hands feeling incredible. I kid you not, no lotion moisturizes or absorbs into the skin so quickly without leaving behind a greasy residue. Insider tip: Collect and return five Lush products pots at a store for a free goody!

MUA BB or CC Cream Brush, $18 at CVS

Have you ever used a brush for your BB or CC cream? If not, you need to ASAP. This brush soaks up any extra product so you don’t cake on a little too much during the hot summer months. The brush head is domed perfectly so it blends cream flawlessly into the skin for super light coverage without leaving brush hairs behind.

See by Chloe, $78 for 1.7 oz at Nordstrom

This perfume completely embodies the New York woman in a single whiff. Notes of vanilla and musk combined with floral jasmine create an urban-chic scent that captures the strong personality that rules the concrete jungle. The luxe bottle is made of faceted glass, perfect for every Chloe woman.

Pantene Dry Shampoo, $4.99 at Target

Nothing saves a blowout during the heat and humidity of summer quite like dry shampoo. If you’re like me (and can’t blow out your own hair to save your life) then getting that salon perfect look to last for days is a must. This dry shampoo from Pantene works wonders on strands, soaking up oils without leaving your hair feeling crunchy or dirty or like you really should just bite the bullet and wash your hair already. Bonus, it also smells fantastic and doesn’t leave any white residue behind.

L’OReal TXT It Tousle Waves Spray, $4.99 at Ulta

Another day, another great sea-salt spray. This one definitely comes in at one of the lowest price points and is readily available at your local Ulta. Spray on damp hair for a perfectly tousled look without a crunchy residue left behind, and it also works double-time as a great detangler for curly locks.

5 things worth checking out this week

Christian Siriano is a game-changer in the fashion world, and he just spilled all of his secrets [Total Beauty] These cats have sage wisdom that everyone should listen to [Refinery 29]

Taylor Schilling positively glowed at the Emmy red carpet, get her look here [Rouge 18]

Labor Day is right around the corner, here are 10 awesome uses for our favorite drink... beer! [Marie Claire]

With summer nearly over, now's the time to try those last few beauty trends of the season [Lipstick.com]

5 things worth checking out this week

Fall runways are all about equestrian and Karlie Kloss owns the trend [Vogue] Looking for fitness inspiration? Here's why you should look no further then this surprising app [Refinery 29]

Have you ever wondered what your most-used emojis say about you? [The Luxury Spot]

Male supermodels are apparently extremely opinionated about the opposite sex, and this one isn't afraid to spill the beans! [Lipstick.com]

Want to turn your insta-photos into nail art? Now there's an app for that [Allure]

5 things worth checking out this week

If you work entirely too hard at your job, consider Energy Healing as a way to unwind (yes, seriously) [Into the Gloss] Obsessed with all things Scandal? Check out this awesome inside scoop on Katie Lowes boudoir [Allure]

Check out this post before reaching for your next makeup wipe. Trust me, all wipes are not the same! [Beauty High]

Wanderlust is good for the soul and these photos of Morocco are absolutely breathtaking [Marie Claire]

If you're looking for a chic way to display your accessories, look no further. Total Beauty has you covered [Total Beauty]

The Best Fitness Apps

You can consider all of us here at BeautySweetSpot fitness fanatics. From running, to yoga and barre, we've got it all covered, which is why we rounded up the best fitness apps that’ll inspire you to get up and get moving – all while having fun, of course.

Runkeeper

This easy-to-use fitness app is great for experienced runners and newbies alike. It features a GPS map that’ll track your every move and a very nice lady-robot (probably related to Siri) who will tell you helpful things like your pace and how long you’ve been running. Once you complete your workout session, Runkeeper gives you the option of bragging about your time and distance on social media, which is awesome for motivational purposes. Never forget that it doesn’t matter how far you go or how fast, you’re still lapping everyone who’s on the couch.

Yoga Studio

Yoga memberships are expensive. A single class can cost upwards of twenty bucks.  Enter the Yoga Studio app. For less than five bucks you get a plethora of awesome routines that are designed to strengthen your muscles through guided workouts and audio cues. More experienced and actually able to touch your toes already? There are plenty of more advanced workouts available, making this the ideal app for yogis of all levels.

Pact

Sometimes the hardest part of working out is just showing up. Pact makes that decision significantly easier by offering rewards and penalties for people who break their workout dates, meaning that every time you skip a workout…you lose real money deducted from your credit card. On the other hand if you meet your goals at the end of the week, then you can actually earn money too! Clever, right? The best part is that Pact can be synced with other fitness apps like your FitBit or even Runkeeper to help hold you accountable without having to do too much extra work like logging in your exercise manually.

Zombies, Run!

If Runkeeper is too boring for you to consider running as a real form of exercise, why don't you give Zombies, Run! a try? Suddenly, running to the corner ahead of you means the difference between you surviving the Zombie apocalypse and you getting totally eaten by a crowd of the walking dead. The app has super creative story lines built in that make you think you're running for your life and running certain distances will unlock gear that'll help you survive another day. Definitely better then your average workout class, right?

Charity Miles

While you're out running from Zombies or challenging your friends to work out twice a week in order to earn five dollars, consider also logging your challenges with Charity Miles. For every mile of exercise that you do, a corporate sponsor will donate to a charity on your behalf. That way, not only are you helping yourself live a healthier lifestyle, but you will be helping the lives of others at the same time.

5 things worth checking out this week

Adulthood can be ridiculously hard, let Miranda Kerr help make yours a little easier with these 7 tips [Into the Gloss]

This video of Barack Obama rapping Iggy’s “Fancy” is all you need to kick-start your Friday [The Luxury Spot]

Everyone can use a little more sleep in the AM. Skip the blow-dry and try these time saving shortcuts instead [Byrdie]

Wondering why everyone is suddenly dousing themselves in ice water? Check out the latest in social movements here [Mashable]

Serena may be long gone, but Blake Lively is still the world's hottest "It Girl" even without the help of Gossip Girl [Vogue]

5 things worth checking out this week

  Is your summer skin feeling a little stressed? Check out this celeb makeup artist trick for an instantly glowing complexion [Byrdie]

Photobombing is an art, and these celebrities have nailed it [Vogue]

Nude nails never go out of style, here are the top picks from every brand [Into the Gloss]

Have you ever wanted to be a mermaid? There's a school for that! [The Luxury Spot]

In honor of National Lipstick Day, 5 facts mind-blowing facts about lipstick [Lipstick.com]

Josie Natori Talks Her New Perfume, Josie

As I walked into the Josie Natori store in downtown NYC, I was immediately immersed into the incredible design world of Josie. Extremely well known for her luxurious lingerie as well as tasteful decor pieces, I was fortunate to be able to chat with Mrs. Natori about her new Josie lifestyle collection and scent.

The store itself was impeccably chic, all centered around a beautiful tablescape that showcased the fragrance and the black, white, and red theme of the line.  A quick sniff confirmed that indeed, Mrs. Natori's second scent will be a total hit as it smells divine.  A crowd gathered in the front of the store stared in awe at the sidewalk, which has been artfully airbrushed with a 3D rendering of the luxe Josie perfume bottle.

Tell me about the new Josie fragrance.

The DNA of Natori is east meets west with a little more of a fun twist. We wanted something that has the feeling of Natori but a little sexier, you know? When you think of Natori you think serious, Josie is upbeat and more for a younger generation.

How does your culture influence your design choices?

This fragrance is inspired by flowers, in particular one I grew up with in the Philippines called the Sampaguita, in the Jasmine family. Then we added a few notes of citrus and patchouli to create a more sensual scent. My lingerie is sexy yet still approachable and I wanted that to come through in the Josie fragrance.

Does your design aesthetic come through when creating a perfume?

Oh of course, you can even tell from the shape of the bottle that we wanted something different, something luxe. It reminds me a little of a bento box! The world of Josie is from the inside out, from underwear to outerwear to home.  It's been fun to complete.

The Josie Natori Josie Perfume retails for $75 for 50 ml, $95 for 100 ml and $22 for the rollerball and can be found online at natori.com.

5 things worth checking out this week

Guys we all know Queen Bey is consistently killing it in life. Here are 7 times her reactions have been spot on [The Luxury Spot] Drop everything, how you store your flat iron actually matters! Have you been doing it wrong too? [Rouge 18]

Everyone wants to be young, and living in these cities will help you stay forever flawless [Total Beauty]

The way you dress is nobody's business but your own. Here's why [Refinery 29]

Struggling to go from beach babe to nighttime chic? This is the only guide you need to looking effortlessly put-together [The Glitter Guide]

5 things worth checking out this week

What's on your summer beauty checklist? We're loving this one in particular [The Luxury Spot]

It's a matcha made in heaven! Here's the scoop on the latest tea craze that has been popping up everywhere [Into the Gloss]

This list of 5 road trips you need to take this summer is perfect for quenching the wanderlust in us all [The Glitter Guide]

ICYMI: Chrissy Teigen was fired from a Forever 21 shoot for being "too fat"...here are plenty of reasons why Forever 21 was so totally wrong [Buzzfeed]

The friendship between this teacup pig and a pit bull is all you need to get you through your day [Refinery 29]

5 things worth checking out this week

Summer is meant for road trips and these tips will guarantee your best getaway ever [The Luxury Spot] Having trouble getting in your daily dose of fruits and veggies? Give these delicious green juices a try! [Total Beauty]

Ear cuffs are so in this summer, check out these trendy favorites and grab yours now! [Glitter Guide]

Wow. Have you heard this leaked cut of the new Britney Spears single sans autotune? Brutal! [Buzzfeed]

J. Crew recently launched expanded sizes to include '000' or 'xxxs'. Are they filling a market gap or further pushing the notion that your worth is directly correlated to the size on your pants? [Refinery 29]

5 things worth checking out this week

Olivia Wilde is the queen of perfection, and now you can get her sleek frizz-free hair with just a trip to the drugstore! [Instyle] Beat a hot workout in style with these summer gym bag essentials [The Luxury Spot]

Avoid summer skin emergencies with these great tips guaranteed to keep you looking healthy and glowing during the hottest months of the year [Beauty High]

This bucket list is totally inspiring us to have the best summer ever, what's on yours? [Honestly Jamie]

Are you #sorrynotsorry? Then check out this awesome video created by Pantene intended to empower women in the best way possible [Total Beauty]

Stylish & Easy Summer Braids

In case you missed the memo, we’re obsessed with braids. Not only are they an easy way to tame unruly (read: frizzy!) strands during the hot summer months, but they’re chic as well. Here are a few of our favorite  easy summer braids that will redefine your go-to summer look all while staying cool and stylish, whether you’re hanging by the pool or on the beach.

The Side Braid Chignon

A great way to keep bangs in place, the side braid flatters any face while the chignon elevates the look to a whole new level. Keep it loose and pull out a few strands for a refreshing update on a classic summertime style.

The Fishtail

This edgy braid tames frizzy locks while capturing a flirty and fun summer vibe, perfect for long days on the beach. Start at the crown and pull it over one shoulder, loosening sections as you go, for a pretty boho look.

The Crown

For those who can’t stand the heat when the summer sun comes out, a braided crown keeps hair tucked up and away without sacrificing style. Start on one side of your head and braid around, bobby pinning any strands threatening to pop out, for a whimsical and fun final look.

The Half-Up

A good option for those who aren’t quite so adventurous, this easy summer braid style features two small braids (one on each side of the head) connected in the back. This flattering look pulls back those annoying front pieces that frame your face while still allowing the rest of your hair to flow with summertime ease.

5 things worth checking out this week

Because summer is basically here (along with a lot of rain) here's the only guide you need for cute summer essentials [The Luxury Spot]

In case you missed it, Eva Chen (Editor in Chief of Lucky mag) did a Reddit AMA and her responses are everything [Reddit]

Beat the heat this summer with these awesome sweat-proof makeup products [The Glitter Guide]

This video of strangers sharing secrets is an incredibly moving piece that exemplifies the importance of human connection [Elite Daily]

This quick braid will become your go-to summer 'do to keep locks looking chic while staying cool [Beauty High]

Curly Hair Styling Saviors

Curly hair can be a beast to live with. My particular type of curl is among the worst, because I’m somewhere in between corkscrew curls and serious beach waves, with a touch of frizziness. When it comes to maintenance, I’m extremely picky about the products that I use in hopes of controlling that frizz without the added hassle of greasy roots from heavy product. Over the last month or so, some pretty awesome products have made their way from Jeannine’s desk to mine that have revolutionized my daily hair routine in a big way, so it would be a crime not to share these curly hair styling saviors!John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Leave-In Conditioner, $5.99 at Ulta.com

This spray not only smells fantastic, but works wonders on tangly curls post-shower. Typically us curly-haired girls fight with our strands for hours just to get a comb through it, but this product eliminates the struggle and leaves behind a blissfully knot-free mane. Added bonus? This vitamin-infused tonic also works as a heat protectant, eliminating another step to your morning routine.

Paul Mitchell Curls Ultimate Wave Beachy Texture Cream-Gel, $20 PaulMitchell.com

Using any product with the word “gel” in it typically spells certain crunchy doom to any girl with curly hair, however this product is an exception to the rule. Lightweight and non-greasy, this gel adds just the right amount of body to curls without the extra crunch of a traditional gel. Scrunch a nickel-sized amount through damp strands for all day humidity control and an added tousled wave look.

John Frieda Frizz Ease Nourishing Oil Elixer, $11.99 Drugstore.com

I know, I know…another John Frieda product? Trust me when I say that John Frieda knows curls, and this Argan- based oil completely proves that. Perfect for combating frizziness, this oil coats and protects strands while adding a beautiful shine to finished hair. Pro Tip: mix one pump of oil with that nickel-sized amount of the Paul Mitchell Curls Cream-Gel for a totally life-changing combo, just be sure to apply from mid-shaft to tip to avoid greasiness at the scalp.

Mark. That’s Beachy Texturizing Surf Spray, $14 at MeetMark.com

This spray is literally beach hair in a bottle. This delicious smelling tonic adds incredible volume while defining curls in a way that I have yet to see from anything short of actual ocean water. It’s super lightweight and I find that I can spray it all over, from root to tip, with no fear of greasy residue once it’s dry. All that is left is beachy bombshell hair that will be your go-to style for summer. The best part? It’s only $14, a total steal compared to higher-end brands and delivers way more bang for your buck.

Biolage Volumizing Whipped Mousse, $19 Drugstore.com

Similar to gels, mousses tend to be extremely hit or miss when applied to curly hair. This mousse adds volume and a little goes a very long way in even the thickest of tresses. Pump a dollop into your palm and work through damp hair for a touchably soft wavy look, sans any crunch. Not only does this mousse feature a medium hold, but it also strengthens strands with macro-lipids and Ceramide without added weight or grease. The 250 mL size will last you a lifetime, making it recessionista-approved.

5 things worth checking out this week

Because summer isn't complete without the perfect summer soundtrack, these 5 songs will rule your road-trips [The Luxury Spot] For those of us who have no idea how to act in public (much less at a beauty appointment), here's the 411 on beauty appointment etiquette [Beauty High]

This open letter to Gen X from Gen Y is an awesome response to the overwhelming lack of confidence Millennials are getting from their elders [Elite Daily]

This is the only guide you need for the perfect Father's Day gift, after all dads only deserve the best! [Bella Sugar]

Waking up early stinks, these tips will help you speed through your morning beauty routine so you can get a little extra shut-eye [Honestly Jamie]

Makeup Counter Fears We All Face

We spend an unhealthy amount of time wondering around Sephora, easily losing hours at a time amongst our friends Dior and Kat Von D.  When it comes to shopping for cosmetics, there's one place we always have awkward experiences and avoid at all costs... the department store makeup counter. You know exactly what we're talking about. These are the 8 makeup counter fears at department stores.

1. When the first saleswoman to accost you looks like she applied her makeup in the dark

2. and the first words out of her mouth are, "Can I give you a makeover?"

3. Then, when you make the mistake of actually stopping to look at the new products and she becomes your new best friend you're all,

4. And when she attacks you with every single new perfume in reach, you're stuck with people thinking you were in an accident in a perfume factory

5. And she cons you into buying a blue lipstick because they're "out of" the red one you originally wanted

6. While her upselling skills have you walking in looking for an eyeshadow and walking out with an eyeshadow, three palettes, two eyeliners, and eyelash curler, and a nail polish

7. Or, even worse, walking out with a bag full of crap except for the one thing you really wanted and you're all

8. and your face when you look at your bank account the next day

Check out this 'Makeup Counter Secrets' article from Total Beauty to help you really navigate the department store and face your makeup counter fears! After all, the artists know what they're talking about.