Jade Dallas - A Lifestyle Blog

Kelowna Getaway

July 19, 2018

My husband and I recently drove up to Kelowna to celebrate our 4th anniversary! I thought I would go through a few fun things things that we did + my favourite spots to visit.

After the drive, the first thing we did was stop for some food! We went to the Craft Beer Market, they have an amazing patio and the beer selection was crazy! It’s right in the downtown strip and has a view of the lake – what’s not to love.

We drove up to the top of Knox Mountain and the view was so beautiful! Theres a few lookout points that you can drive to, or you can hike up a bit to get to the very top!

We also went to the Kasugai Garden which was super cute! Its quite small, but the plants are beautiful, and the whole thing is very well maintained. Also, its free!

Lastly, my absolute favourite part of the trip was going to Kangaroo Creek! The animals are so sweet, and they all seem to be very well cared for.

Petting the kangaroos + holding the baby joeys was honestly such an amazing experience. They are so freaking cute, and surprisingly soft!

In addition to the kangaroos they also had capybaras, maras, goats, a very friendly emu, some exotic birds and a little sugar glider!

Have you been to Kelowna? Tell me your favourite things to do in the area!

Until next time,

Skincare : My current routine + Progress

July 16, 2018

Hello friends! I’ve been waiting a while to share my little skin journey with you, and I’m finally ready (and so is my skin) so here we go!

I’ve always struggled with my skin, around age 16 I started having really bad breakouts around my cheeks and had to go on a prescription to clear it up. Since then I have always had hormonal breakouts, along with mysterious Idontknowwhatshappening breakouts, dry patches and occasionally allergic reactions.

My main concerns have always been acne, uneven tone and dullness. I would usually find a product that worked for me (like really worked) but after a few months the magic faded and I was back to square one!

I started to see Danika (Omega Skin and Laser Studio) in March of this year, and have continued to see her monthly and the results have been nothing short of amazing. My first appointment we did an enzyme facial – my skin looked incredible, but then unfortunately I had a very bad reaction to a medication I was on for a throat infection (who would have thought). I felt so discouraged, this was probably the worst my skin has looked.

*this is my skin during my reaction – my entire face was covered in little spots, and in addition to that my skin was so dry and flaky, even with makeup it still looked red and bumpy. (This photo is with makeup).

Thankfully Danika is super knowledgeable and told me how to calm my skin and begin to repair it. Because this was a reaction I used hydrocortisone along with my regular skincare and it began to clear up within a week. Even though the reaction was clearing my skin was left feeling dull, rough and looking pretty uneven.

*this is after it had cleared, as you can tell my skin still healing but it’s much better!

Now after a few months and following my at home regime and of course with Danika’s help my skin is looking awesome! I have been getting derma planing done (which is a great way to exfoliate!), followed up with an enzyme facial and then LED therapy to help with bacteria that causes breakouts as well as helps stimulate collagen!

* this is my skin currently (yes I am wearing makeup) – my breakouts have been minimal and usually around my period (thanks hormones!). But I feel like that is totally normal, and again my breakouts are smaller, and much easier to manage compared to before I started this skincare routine/began to visit Danika!

My at home routine:

Cleanse: Alumier MD sensi-calm cleanser
Tone: Alumier MD Bright & Clear Solution
Retinol: Alumier MD Resurfacing Serum 0.25%
Moisturize: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

If you’re looking for great skin tips definitely check out Danika’s site and blog, she has a ton of information and easy things to do to get your skin looking its best!!

If you have any questions feel free to leave them in the comments and I’ll get back to you asap!

Until next time,

Spring Favourites

June 13, 2018

Hello friends! It feels like it’s been forever since I wrote a blog post (oooooopsie). Life has felt busy and honestly I haven’t really been in the headspace to be writing and sharing (even if it is about makeup).

But hey, I’m back now! I figured with summer right around the corner I would share my spring favourites. All of the products I’m sharing today are beauty products – not because I don’t have skin care favourites, but rather I plan on sharing my routine in another post!

Anyways lets get to it!

1. Tarte Amazonian Clay Foundation: I’ve always been a huge fan of this foundation – in fact this is a repurchase! I’ve been using it so much the last few months I thought I should share it with you guys. The foundation is full coverage, super smooth and comfortable on the skin. I only use a very small amount but because its full coverage a little goes a long way! The thing I love most about this is that it works over my sunscreen, and doesn’t break me out!

2. NUDESTIX Tinted Blur: I bought this maybe a month or so ago, and I am in love. Seriously this is the best! It is very sheer but gives your skin such a beautiful smooth look. Your skin, but better! The stick formula is also super convenient to throw in your purse or your makeup bag if you travel a lot. Again this goes over moisturizer and sunscreen beautifully and sits so nicely on the skin!

3. Smashbox Cali Contour Palette: This palette has become such a go-to for me! The bronzer and contour shades are so beautiful and work well on my fair skin. The blush is also such a perfect tone for natural makeup! It’s definitely a great all in one face palette and, perfect for travel.

4. NUDESTIX Illumi-naughty: I can’t say enough good things about this highlighter. Its just the most perfect formula and gives such a beautiful glow to the skin. It’s also light enough for my fair skin unlike a lot of other highlighters.

5. NUDESTIX In the Nude: This is for sure my favourite blush of the moment – I alternate between using my smashbox palette and this blush with other cream products. When applied with a brush it gives a super natural flush to the skin and lasts so well throughout the day.

6. NUDESTIX Eyebrow Stylus + Gel: Okay, this gel… I don’t even have the words. I love it so much. It holds my brows in place all day and dries down perfectly. Safe to say its my holy grail brow gel. The brow pencil itself is also really nice, its a small triangle shape and goes on effortlessly! Overall a great combination product and perfect for anyone on the go!

7. NYX Micro Brow Pencil: This is a great dupe for the ABH brow wiz, the tip is super small and goes on very smooth. The tip makes creating natural brows really easy and I also like that they include a spooly on the end.

8. NUDESTIX gel colour lip + cheek in “Pulse”: This formula is so nice, its like a lipstick and balm in one. I love wearing this when my lips feel dry! The colour is such a pretty plummy nude and it’s become one of my go-to’s!

9. NUDESTIX lip + cheek in “blush”: This formula is more of a lipstick, but still super hydrating. This shade is such a nice warm nude! I love it on its own or mixed with my BITE 036 lip pencil (AKA my perfect nude).

10. NUDESTIX magnetic matte lip in “rose”: This lives in my bag (along with the other lippies mentioned) and it’s my go-to for any long/busy day. The magnetic matte formula literally lasts through anything! Its kiss proof, transfer proof and pretty much food proof. But the best part is that its so freaking comfortable. It never feels tight or dry, and even though it stays on all day, it comes off with micellar water like a dream.

11. Urban Decay Naked Basics: I’ve had this palette for a long time, but recently I’ve found myself reaching for it a lot more! It has such great neutral shades I wear it almost everyday to work. It’s also super compact which I personally love!

12. NUDESTIX magnetic matte eye pencil “putty”: This would be my alternative to powder shadow – I put this colour all over my lid to neutralize any redness or eye veins (because who likes those?). It’s so great because it doesn’t crease and lasts so well all day! It also works beautifully under other darker shades!

13. Benefit Roller Lash: This might be one of my top 3 mascaras of all time. The tiny brush makes it so easy to get all the tiny lashes, and doesn’t clump or flake at all! The only downside is that it’s a bit difficult to get off, so if you buy it I would recommend getting waterproof makeup remover!

* Clearly I am obsessed with all of my nudestix goodies (but seriously I love this brand) – and I’m sure you will be too! If you want to purchase anything from their site you can use my code “jadedallasharms10” for 10% off of your order! ALSO, I will be giving away a few of my faves on my instagram so keep your eyes peeled!

Let me know what you’ve been loving this last season in the comments below!

Until Next time,

The Ollie Quinn Experience

March 23, 2018

So if you follow me on social media you already know I own a lot of glasses… and I’ll probably keep getting more, because why not?! They’re an accessory I actually need, and wear every day. Having different frames is a great way to switch up my look or add a little pop to a simple outfit (plus they make me look smarter, right?).

Recently I had to pleasure of going into Ollie Quinn in Gastown to get the “Ollie Quinn experience”. As someone who chooses glasses online this was new to me! Like a traditional optical there was a ton of frames to try on, but the environment felt super relaxed and no one was pushing me to buy anything or up-sell me. The staff were so helpful, and even pulled a handful of frames that would suit me!

They have every kind of frame, and the price point is great! After trying on a bunch of glasses (and nearly buying some pretty dramatic ones) I settled on a pair of deep tortoise ones with the prettiest rose gold arm accent called Clemes!

Overall the experience was awesome, and I would highly recommend checking them out next time you’re downtown, or even browse their collection online!

If you want to see how I style these frames check out my Instagram page!

Until next time,

Weekend Wear With Montrose + George

March 4, 2018

Seeing as spring likes to take its time here in BC, I love anything with layers for this time of year. Cozy + light is the way to go! If you’ve followed along here, or on my Instagram you know that I’m a lover of simple + casual outfits so obviously I fell in love with these pieces from Montrose + George as soon as I saw them!

This outfit would be perfect for the weekend! I would wear it to go to the city or just hangout with my husband around the house! Its casual, and incredibly comfortable (seriously everything is so soft). It’s the perfect combination to transition into the warmer spring days – hopefully they come soon!

I love the look of this long, open front cardigan, it’s buttery soft, lightweight but still incredibly cozy. It also has cuffed sleeves and front pockets which is always a win in my books! This would look great with almost anything under it, but for myself I couldn’t resist pairing it with a crisp white t-shirt.

Then to add a little bit of extra flair I paired the cardigan and t-shirt with these distressed skinny jeans and leopard print slip on sneakers. I love adding a pop of colour or a fun pattern to mix up an otherwise neutral outfit (and I’m a sucker for anything leopard).

In addition to being perfect for day wear, this outfit would be super easy to transition to a date night outfit! Just swap the cardigan for a leather jacket and add some booties + a red lip!

Do dress up, or dress down on the weekend? Let me know in the comments!

Until Next Time,

*All of these pieces can be found at Montrose + George in Abbotsford BC!

*Photo Credit: Lori Swaan

Winter Favourites

February 6, 2018

Since we’re still in the midst of winter I figured it would be the perfect time to share some of my favourite makeup products of the season! I was lucky enough to be given a few new products for Christmas, and I also picked up a few things for myself.

1) Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipstick in Pepper: Okay, so for starters Bite Beauty is my favourite lipstick brand, everything they make is amazing. I especially love the Amuse Bouche lipsticks because they smell heavenly and they’re so moisturizing which is perfect for the winter. The shade is the prettiest dark nude and goes with any makeup!

2) MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Chili: I’ve been obsessed with warm/orangey tones so this was a must have for me. It’s a great alternative to the Tarte Quick dry Matte liquid lipstick in XOXO and because its a matte lipstick but not liquid its much less drying!

3) NUDESTIX What’s your matte Reds + Nudes: I bought this set from Sephora because I had been itching to try Nudestix and seriously they did not disappoint! These shades are so pretty, lightweight and long wearing. It’s also such a good deal! The products are nearly the same size as the full size (2.5 gram vs. the full size at 2.8g) at a fraction of the price. The set is 28$ CAD!

4) Fenty Beauty Foudation: I waited for soooooo long for this to get restocked, so when it did I jumped on it! I had heard the most amazing things about this and I have to agree. First off the colour match is spot on! The consistency is super thin and kind of watery which I love and it provides really nice coverage. The only downside is that its a matte foundation so I have to make sure I really moisturize beforehand.

5) Benefit Boi-ing Concealer: I actually loved this so much its empty! Its so hydrating and doesn’t crease under my eyes which is ideal (eye-deal.. see what I did there?). It’s a bit pricier in terms of the amount that you get, but to me it was well worth it!

6) NARS Laguna Bronzer: I got this in a points redemption and I can’t get enough. Something I’ve always loved about NARS powders is how smooth they are, and how well they sit on my skin. I’ve been using this along with my Hoola Lite for added depth + warmth. I’ll definitely be purchasing the full size when I run out.

7) Too Faced Hangover Primer: This is such a great primer – honestly I am so picky with primers because my skin breaks out so easily but I’ve had zero problems and it actually helps my makeup stay put and look great!

8) Tarte Cosmetics Tartelette Palette: I was given this for Christmas and I can’t get enough. I love Tarte as a brand, and these shadows are pigmented, smooth, blend well and smell like cake! Whats not to love?

Do you switch up or favour different products in different seasons? If so what have you been loving this winter? Let me know in the comments!

Until next time,

New Year, New Hair !

January 27, 2018

A new year always feels like a fresh start, or a new beginning. So why not feel your very best? Thats what I asked myself anyways.

When it comes to my hair I get pretty restless and love making changes – but that being said I’ve been trying to grow out my hair for the past year or so, and lets just be honest theres not much you can change while you’re growing your hair out!

I went down to Artel Salon in Vancouver to see Allie Routledge (@alliedoesgoodhair) to get a freshen up my look. The salon was super easy to find and seriously so cute! My whole experience was awesome – we listened to 80’s + 90’s guilty pleasures and chatted the whole time.

I opted to lighten up my balayage as well with bring the colour up a bit and freshen up my cut (bye bye dead ends!). Allie was so great with nailing down my vision and understanding what I really wanted out of my hair, which was so nice.

*Side note – how cute are the foils?! They’re pink!!!

BEFORE: Uneven ends + brassy tones

AFTER: fresh cut + lighter + cool/neutral tone

Allie brightened up my balayage and trimmed my hair without taking too much off! My hair feels so much healthier now and I am in love with the end result. If you’re looking for a new stylist I would highly recommend going to see her if you’re in the lower mainland! You can check out her instagram here + make sure to follow my instagram for an upcoming promotion!

Until next time,

Winter Skincare Routine

December 29, 2017

Seeing as winter is in full swing, and my skin is suffering I figured it would be the perfect time to share my winter skincare routine!

Typically in the morning I just rinse my face with water instead of washing it with cleanser, and at night I take off my makeup with Garnier’s micellar water, and then cleanse with my Marcelle Hyrda-C exfoliating cleanser.

After cleansing I follow up with my Breath of Fresh Air toner from Lush, and then my Vichy booster. Once that soaks into my skin I finish with my Marcelle Hydra-C moisturizer and eye cream!

If I’m having any breakouts I treat them with Grease Lightning from Lush, and put it on before my hydration booster.

My last must have for dry skin is the Boscia gel exfoliant. I honestly love this stuff so much! I’ve heard really mixed reviews but personally it’s my favourite. It gets rid of all of the dry/dead skin without being too harsh on my skin.

All of the products are linked here!

*For reference my skin is usually combination during the summer, and dry in the winter – but more recently my skin has gone to dry all the time. I have occasional hormonal breakouts and my skin is also fairly sensitive.

I hope that this helped you pick out some new products if you’re also dealing with super dry skin this season!

Until next time,

Fort Langley Photoshoot : Jaleesa Matteazzi Photography

December 6, 2017

Last weekend my husband and I had the pleasure of getting together with Jaleesa Matteazzi to take some couple photos in Fort Langley! We braved the chilly weather and I am so glad we did. I love the photos so much.

Jaleesa made shooting feel easy (which is amazing, because I always feel super awkward!), and captured the little in between moments which I love!

Here are some of my favourite shots from the photoshoot, and definitely check Jaleesa’s photography page here!

Until Next Time,

My Top 4 Liquid Lipstick Brands

November 1, 2017

Liquid lipsticks have been trendy for the last few years and honestly, they are a favourite of mine. I love anything that lasts all day (or requires minimal touch ups) and is transfer proof. Unfortunately a lot of liquid lipsticks can be crazy drying, and even get a little clumpy looking if you have to touch up! Today I’m sharing with you my favourite brands to buy liquid lips from, why I love them and a little about their formulas!

1. Tarte Quick Dry Lip Paint: I’ve mentioned this a few times, so obviously you know I love it. The formula is really thin when applying, and it dries down completely within 30 seconds. This stuff is transfer proof, and really comfortable as far as liquid lips go! They have a great colour range, and I also love the applicator! It’s a doe foot with a slight curve which grabs the perfect amount of product. (Fave shades: XOXO and Delish, you’ll notice them on repeat in my instagram posts).

2. Sephora Collection Liquid Lips: The Sephora Collection liquid lipstick was one of the first liquid lipsticks I ever bought. The formula is a bit thicker than the Tarte, but feels extra comfortable and lasts forever; even when eating (unless you’re eating an oil salad dressing or something). They released a bunch of new colours recently and the price point is decent at $18. (Fave shades: Always Red + Blackberry! Theres a picture of me wearing blackberry here)

3. Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick: I feel like everyone knows that Kat Von D lipsticks are just awesome. The formula is super thin, which feels nice on the lips and the colours are amazing. I will say these can be a bit drying but overall I still reach for mine a lot! (Fave shades: Mother and Lolita – clearly Lolita lives in my purse… that packaging is worn).

4. Colourpop Ultra Matte Lipstick: I’ll be honest and tell you I only own 1 of these lipsticks but I am so impressed that I’m going to mention it. The formula is thicker, but not quite a mousse texture. The colour range is really impressive, and they wear really well. The only downside for me is that if you are touching it up it does become a bit thicker feeling which I don’t love. But overall for the price of $6 (USD) its well worth it! (Fave and only shade so far: Mama).

I hope this helped you choose a liquid lipstick if you don’t have one yet – and if you already have a collection let me know your favourite brands/colours!

Until next time,

Go-To Fall Look

October 27, 2017

The weather has finally cooled down, the leaves are changing and, I’ve been to the pumpkin patch three times already. Safe to say fall is in full swing! One of my favourite things about fall is being able to wear cozy clothing and layer on scarves + hats and of course sit at home on a rainy day with the fireplace on. Because I look forward to fall all year I wanted to share my go-to look with you!

I absolutely love the look of a more structured jacket over a cozy sweater, jeans and a pair of sneakers. This outfit is great because its comfortable, easy and looks put together yet effortless (and honestly it is). The neutral tones look great on pretty much everyone and you could always add a fun pop of colour with a handbag or scarf. I would wear this look pretty much anywhere: coffee with a friend, errands, even to work!

I chose my dark grey frames with this look because they’re neutral, but also a little different compared to the typical black frames. The sweater also adds a nice texture to the ensemble – I love the way it looks against the jeans and the softness of the jacket. It also elongates the legs by wearing it tucked into my jeans, and adds more interest to the outfit.

Shop my look:

What’s your go-to look for fall? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to follow along on Instagram!

Until next time,

Fall Favourites

October 21, 2017

It’s been a while, but I’m back to blogging! Life has felt really busy the last couple of months (I’m sure many of you can relate) so I’m excited to have some time to create blog content! Fall is here, rain and all, so I thought it would be fitting to share some of my beauty favourites this season.

1. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara: This is definitely an old favourite, I’ve repurchased it a few times and this time my husband picked one up for me (how sweet)! I know a lot of people don’t like the size of the brush but personally I really like it. It gives my lashes length + volume and doesn’t flake during the day or make my lashes feel brittle. My little secret is that I typically buy the mini size; I do this because its actually a better value, and I feel that the formula seems a bit drier in the mini tube which I like a lot better! You can pick this up at your local Sephora or online, the mini retails at $15 and the full size is $30.

2. Benefit Gimme Brow: This is a mini size as well and, I’m pretty sure I got it with my Sephora points. I’m fairy picky with brow gels but I have been loving this one! I usually opt for something clear but this dark brown colour works perfectly for me. What I love most is that it keeps the front of my brows looking nice and fluffy and lasts pretty much all day! You can pick this up at any Sephora (or online) or at a Shoppers Beauty Boutique if you live in Canada. It retails for $32.

3. Too Faced Hangover Primer: This product took me a while to love, I bought it because my HG primer was changed (saaaad) and I had heard good things. Initially I wasn’t impressed, but I gave it another go and it’s been amazing (this might just be because my skin has changed a lot recently, I used to be very oily and now I’m super dry). It makes my face feel super smooth and I definitely notice a difference in my foundation lasting through the day compared to no primer. Its also silicone free which I love! This one is $40 for the full size and, $18 for the mini.

4. Tartelette Flirt Mini Palette: I actually bought this very recently, BUT I love it so much. I had my eye on the new Tartelette Toasted palette (the warm tones are just amazing) but when I stumbled onto this I was sold! I don’t wear eyeshadow everyday so a mini palette is honestly just better for me. Tarte makes some of my favourite eyeshadows and it smells so good! Best part is it’s only $30 at Sephora!

5. Benefit Hoola Lite Bronzer: Okay. For real I don’t know why it took me so long to buy this. It’s the best bronzer ever for fair skin. I’ve had the hardest time finding bronzer/contour shades that aren’t too dark for me so this is a little life changing. It blends beautifully on the skin and can be built up and it has a really nice scent to it! I picked this up at Sephora for $38 but as I said before you can also purchase Benefit from a Shoppers beauty boutique.

6. Tarte Blush in Paaarty: I got this blush in the little birthday gift from Sephora and I seriously love it so much. In case you haven’t noticed, Tarte is already one of my favourite cosmetics brands and this blush is just such a pretty shade for fair skin. It looks natural and isn’t overwhelming at all. It has become an everyday makeup staple. It comes in a full size at Sephora as well for $38 if you couldn’t get it for your birthday gift!

7. Tarteist Quick Dry Lip Paint in Delish: I really love this formula because it’s transfer proof, I wear this (and other shades from the range) to work all the time because it lasts and doesn’t budge. It’s perfect for those days you don’t have time to check your lipstick + touch it up. I don’t find it too drying either and this colour has become a fast favourite. It’s such a pretty warm dark nude, perfect for everyday looks! I managed to snag a couple of these at Sephora while they were on sale for $14, but they usually retail for $24.

So that’s it! If you want to check out any of the products mentioned I’ve linked them all in the post. What have you been loving this fall? Let me know – I always love to try out new products!

Until Next Time,

Setting Goals

August 28, 2017

As I said before in my last post, this year as part of my back to work/school preparation I’m setting goals for myself. I’ve never been big on setting goals for the year because I always second guess myself, and focus on my failures. That being said, this year is going to be different (at least I hope so)! My goals are more so focused on my own well-being versus being focused on specific milestones.

If theres anything I’ve learned from the past year it’s that I’m not taking care of myself, and I’m putting myself under too much pressure. My anxiety has been at an all time high, and I’ve been getting sick for the last few months (non-stop). So this year I want to take time to put myself first, and really focus on my health and happiness.

Back to School Must Haves

August 17, 2017

September is right around the corner, and in the spirit of back to school I thought I would share some of my must haves to start the year off! For me September is a busy time of year, not only do I work at an elementary school, but I’m also taking classes so its back to work + school for me. The adjustment to get back into a routine can be a bit tricky, especially when I’ve been off for the last two months. There are a few things that help me get back into the groove of things – here are my back to school must haves:

Mr + Mrs

July 6, 2017

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of getting together with Steph Schulz (Steph Schulz Photography) to take some photos of my husband and I. We wandered around downtown Abbotsford + Old Hand to get some casual + candid shots.

I absolutely love how they turned out, so I thought I would share some of my favourites here on the blog!