Favorites from 2016 | Beauty, Books & Shows


Happy Friday friends!! I thought I was a day ahead all week long, which makes for an extra long week, but we made it to Friday! For the next couple of weeks I thought it would be fun to recap some of my favorite things from this past year in their own categories – starting this week with Beauty, Books & Shows! 





Favorite Beauty Buys ||




I feel like I tried a lot of new beauty items this year – some good & some were duds, but the ones that were really good I ended up buying more than once in 2016! 






Bobbi Brown Shadow Sticks || I use these shadow sticks daily! They stay put all day and the colors are really pigmented! I use dusty mauve the most, but the other three colors are on heavy rotation as well! 






Moroccan Oil Dry Shampoo || Finding a dry shampoo that works with dark hair and doesn’t leave a white residue is hard so when I randomly ordered this one earlier this year I was hooked! I’ve gone through three travel sized ones & even after testing others I always come back to this one. Did I mention it smells heavenly? 






Butter Bronzer || After first mentioning this bronzer in May, I’m happy to report that I bought another one just in case they stop making it! I must have a thing for products that smell good because this smells like someone bottled up summer & the best smelling tanning lotions into a bronzer! SO GOOD! 






Lock-It-Concealer || Kat Von D knows her stuff! In August I mentioned how much I was loving the concealer and setting powder duo and here we are in December – both are going strong! I’ve never had a concealer, for lack of a better word, conceal as well as this one! Maybe it’s because Kat Von D has a lot of tattoos and has perfected hiding some for other people, but this duo does not budge! The best part is that it doesn’t get into the fine lines under you eyes either!! 






It Cosmetics CC Cream || This was the year of It Cosmetics! Maybe I was living under a rock, but before this year I had never heard of the brand and then suddenly it was everywhere and for good reason too! I recently started using the CC Cream – the one that says “your skin, but better” and their right – the finish is nice with a good mix of matte & dewy! I realize those are opposites, but somehow it’s matte in the places I don’t want to shine and dewy everywhere else! 


Favorite Books ||




This was the year of reading for me – I checked my kindle & I actually read 50 books! With all those books, there are definitely a lot of favorites, but I narrowed it down to my top 4! 

Great books to read






One True Loves || Taylor Jenkins Reid became on of my favorite authors this year – I read 3/4 of her books and really loved them all, but especially One True Loves. This was named best book of the Summer and I admit, I was partial to it because it took place in New England. 




A Small Indiscretion || I didn’t read many thrillers this year – this was actually the only one and it was so engaging. If you like chapters that weave in and out of time, you’ll like this read. You can read my original review here




The Balance Project || I read this at the start of the year & I’m amazed that I still remember it so vividly! What’s the difference between a twenty something “newbie” & a high power female executive – no spoilers, but not a whole lot! 




The Marrying Type || I absolutely loved this book because it was so relevant to right now! It’s about a reality show that follows wedding planners from around the country, with the focus of this season being on a wedding planner from Charleston! 






You can see more of my reads from 2016 here, here & here





Favorite Shows ||




There were plenty of binge-athons in our house this past year, mostly thanks to Netflix! 




The Crown || We flew through the first (and currently only) season of The Crown on Netflix. I’m not usually one for period pieces, but this show is so good. It’s about the Royal family, specifically Queen Elizabeth II. Highly suggest watching this if you like Downton Abbey, the Royal Family or are a history buff! 







Season 2 of Bloodline || The first season of Bloodline on Netflix was good – it took a few episodes to really get me hooked, but for the very first episode of season 2 I was in it!! So good and I can’t wait for season 3! 





This Is Us|| I’m sure this show is going to be on a lot of people’s must watch list!! The first episode hooks you…not until the last 2 minutes do you feel like you were truly shocked & it takes a lot for a show to stump me! I’ve watched every episode this season & you can relate to all the characters! Mandy Moore was meant to play this role! 





The Affair || Gary and I started watching this early on in the year on Showtime. I think the name is a little off-putting for a lot of people, sort of gives it away with what happens, BUT – once you get into the character stories & their development you get sucked in. We just started watching the current season and I’m a little sad that I can’t just watch the entire season! 





Younger || If you guys haven’t watched this show on TV Land yet, you’re missing out! It’s hilarious, totally current & a quick thing to watch! 






What were some of your favorites this year? 


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55 Comments

  1. Trista @ The Classy Chaos
    December 2, 2016 / 11:03 am

    Love this idea! And I will definitely add those 4 books to my reading list! I've also got to start The Crown and This Is Us!! Have an awesome weekend!

  2. Andrea Nine
    December 2, 2016 / 11:06 am

    Oooh these posts are going to be so fun!! Guess what? I just finished season 1 of Younger…so good, my sweet hubs just downloaded season 2 for me. I relate to this show so much. One True Loves was one of my favorites too and I think I need to put every single beauty product on my list as your makeup always looks flawless! Happy weekend doll!!

  3. Alexis @ Chemistry Cachet
    December 2, 2016 / 11:31 am

    I need to check out some of those books! I did a bunch of reading over the summer, but it's been so busy lately, I haven't had a chance to get into another book. Happy Friday girl!

  4. Girl Meets Bow
    December 2, 2016 / 11:44 am

    This is such a great ideas for a post series- I love reading about people's favorites bc I get so many ideas! I've got lots to check out from your list!

  5. a little bit of emily
    December 2, 2016 / 11:45 am

    I totally agree – great post series! Added a few of those books to my reading list. Really thinking I need to get Netflix after all the good shows everyone keeps talking about!

  6. Lauren {By Lauren M}
    December 2, 2016 / 12:12 pm

    I still haven't started The Crown, but it's on my list! I love Younger and This is Us!

    By Lauren M

  7. Blaire Bingham
    December 2, 2016 / 12:13 pm

    Great year end round up! I loved that Physicians Formula bronzer as well, and I can't wait to watch The Crown on Netflix. We just finished Stranger Things and it was so good! I can't believe this year is coming to an end.
    xo, Whitney and Blaire
    Peaches In A Pod

  8. Pamela {Sequins and Sea Breezes}
    December 2, 2016 / 12:14 pm

    Definitely a huge fan of IT Cosmetics! Going to have to try that Kat Von D concealer though. I can't believe I haven't watched The Crown yet. I need to get on that! Happy Friday love! <3, Pamela Sequins & Sea Breezes

  9. Rachel McCarthy
    December 2, 2016 / 12:23 pm

    What a fun post! So impressed with the 50 books, that's awesome! I'm going to have to check these out, especially The Balance Project. And yes to Younger!! It's one of my favorite shows…my husband even watches it with me haha! Have a great weekend, Biana!

    xo, Rachel
    A Blonde's Moment

  10. Sarita @ it's my girls' world
    December 2, 2016 / 12:27 pm

    Love this post. Now I'm off the check a couple of those books out. Finishing downton abbey so off to start the crown next!! That concealer sounds right up my alley

  11. Ashley G
    December 2, 2016 / 12:40 pm

    I haven't read any of those books and need a new one to start! Perfect timing!

  12. Anonymous
    December 2, 2016 / 12:41 pm

    I agree, I've seen It Cosmetics all over. I'm glad to hear that you like it so much ! I've been wanting to try the CC Cream. I don;t get to watch T.V. much but I'd love to start watching This Is Us. You and everyone else I know suggests it. Happy Friday Biana πŸ™‚

  13. Amanda Elizabeth - Meet @ the Barre
    December 2, 2016 / 12:48 pm

    I finally just got that It cream and it really is fantastic, I feel the same way….was I living under a rock or something? That Affair is so good right? The first two episodes were a little slow but I know it will be picking up quickly!

  14. Amanda | Kids and Cabernet
    December 2, 2016 / 12:49 pm

    Love this post. I need to see This Is Us, everyone has been saying how great it is! Have a great weekend!!

    Amanda Kids and Cabernet

  15. Rachel Emily
    December 2, 2016 / 12:52 pm

    I can't believe I haven't watch The Crown yet!! I love that kind of thing and I keep hearing great things! Added these books to my never-ending to read list, too. Your faves out of FIFTY you read this year must be awesome πŸ™‚

  16. Lizzie @ This Happy Life
    December 2, 2016 / 12:53 pm

    I discovered It Cosmetics too this year and their bye bye foundation is my favorite!! My Mom has been telling me to watch younger, she loves it!

  17. Doused in Pink | Chicago Style Blog
    December 2, 2016 / 12:54 pm

    I'm so impressed that you read 50 books! I try to read one a month and that's hard! I'm adding all of your suggestions to my reading list! I'm going to have to watch Younger! Enjoy the weekend!

    Jill
    Doused In Pink

  18. Rosy Outlook - Fashion & Lifestyle by Kelly Rose
    December 2, 2016 / 1:06 pm

    I always love seeing your book recommendations–I definitely need to check those 3 out! I had the total opposite issue with Bloodline! Was VERY into the first season but then we stopped watching mid-way through the second season because I couldn't get hooked. We definitely need to pick it up again!

    rosyoutlookblog.com

  19. Jenn
    December 2, 2016 / 1:23 pm

    I've watched all of the same shows, except for Younger. Loved all of them! One True Loves was a good read–I hadn't read the others on your list though! And I'm definitely going to check out the dry shampoo! I hate that damn white residue!

  20. Anonymous
    December 2, 2016 / 1:27 pm

    Yes to all of those makeup picks! The butter bronzer is like heaven… I also am a huge fan of Younger! Hillary Duff is such a babe… Happy Friday!

    Brittany πŸ™‚
    kingdomofsequins.com

  21. CubicleCouture
    December 2, 2016 / 1:41 pm

    You're my favorite, duh! πŸ™‚ I am tempted to watch this is us, but I don't need any more show addictions!! The TV has sucked me in lately!!

  22. Lauren
    December 2, 2016 / 2:05 pm

    Agree on all your TV show picks! I need to catch up on the new season of The Affair! I love how they've moved beyond the actual "affair" and onto larger issues with the characters, so interesting!

  23. Sierra @ Beautifully Candid
    December 2, 2016 / 2:21 pm

    Happy Friday! I'm definitely hooked on This Is Us and just love everything about it. I need to try that dry shampoo! I have yet to try Kat Von D's stuff but keep hearing amazing things about it. Have a great weekend xo Beautifully Candid

  24. Nadine
    December 2, 2016 / 2:21 pm

    I have been meaning to pick up one of those Bobbi Brown sticks to try. There are so many pretty colors I cant decide! I loved One True Loves!!! Made my top list for this year too. And This is Us is so good. I want to try The Affair and we started Younger but I don't think Chris liked it. Maybe I will pick it back up on my own on maternity leave. Hope you have a great weekend!

  25. Marie
    December 2, 2016 / 2:32 pm

    I love the lock-it concealer, it does work really well. Yes to The Crown and This is Us, two awesome shows!! I haven't finished The Crown yet and I sort of don't want it to end. haha Glad they are gonna have a season two. Have a wonderful weekend.

  26. Jalisa
    December 2, 2016 / 2:33 pm

    I'm so glad you did this because you've given me some great suggestions here that I want to try asap! For starters, I remember you mentioning the Moroccan Oil dry shampoo not too long ago, which I need to pick up. I, too, have dark hair and can attest to how hard it is to find one that works for not only my fine, greasy prone hair, but that also doesn't leave a white residue behind. I also want to try Kat Von D's products because I don't believe I've ever read a negative review on any of her products before, she seems to make such amazing, great quality makeup. Plus, I heard it's vegan, too!? Out of the books you've shared here, I'm interested in The Balance Project, which I just may pick up this weekend. I've slacked more than I'd like to admit this year in my reading, so I want to start off on a great start with a line up! Thanks so much for sharing, beauty, and I hope you have a great weekend ahead!

    XO,

    Jalisa
    thestylecontour.com

  27. Katie Elizabeth
    December 2, 2016 / 2:37 pm

    Loooove those Bobbi Brown shadow sticks! And I felt the same way about Bloodline season 2, I want more!!

  28. Christina
    December 2, 2016 / 2:56 pm

    The Affair is my favvvoooorite. I gotta catch up bc I missed last Sunday!! You NEED to watch Doctor Foster on Netflix. It's only 5 episodes but SO good. Watch it tonight with your Friday sushi!!!

  29. kerri @ cheshire kat
    December 2, 2016 / 3:23 pm

    we are like twins as far as tv shows we both like so now i need to add younger to my list! loving bloodline and so bummed only one more season for that one. i still need to finish the crown but i'm obsessed so far! that butter bronzer is SO good you're right i should just get an extra in case!

    xoxo cheshire kat

  30. Carly
    December 2, 2016 / 3:25 pm

    I don't know if we get TV Land, but I really want to watch Younger! I'm loving This Is Us– you're so right about Mandy Moore, she does such an amazing job in the role. I still haven't started The Crown, but am excited because I keep hearing so many good things! The Marrying Type sounds so cute– and the cover is so pretty!

  31. Rebecca Jo
    December 2, 2016 / 3:41 pm

    I need to watch Younger. I loved that girl on Bunheads πŸ™‚

  32. Ashley Lillis
    December 2, 2016 / 4:11 pm

    Way to go on your reading goal for the year! I still haven't read One True Loves, but so many people have said so many good things about it that I can't wait to crack it open! We officially booked our next trip to Europe and we're headed to London so The Crown is on my list for us to watch before we go over there! I also think that we need to give The Affair another try because I don't think that we gave it enough time. I hope that you have a great weekend!

  33. Kate at Green Fashionista
    December 2, 2016 / 4:17 pm

    Love love love This is Us, hands down my favorite new show this year! I also need to start watching Younger! The Kat Von D Lock It line is amazing, and I love how long it lasts. Happy Friday gurlie <3
    Green Fashionista

  34. Kelsey Bang
    December 2, 2016 / 4:27 pm

    what a fun post! full of lots of goodies!

    kelseybang.com

  35. Sparkles and Lattes
    December 2, 2016 / 4:36 pm

    I love The Affair. My husband didn't want to watch it for the name, but after an episode he was hooked. This season is a bit weird so far, but I still love it. Love This is Us. And thank you for the book recommendations. I am always looking for new ones. Have a great weekend!

  36. Nikki @ makeupHER
    December 2, 2016 / 6:09 pm

    I haven't finished The Crown, but omg such a good show! I am the same way not one for period pieces, but this one is great! I used to watch Younger, but fell behind and never caught up, but I've been hearing a lot of (good) buzz around the show. I love Hilary Duff, so I'll try and catch up with it again. This is Us is probably my favorite new show of the Fall, every episode grips me and makes me want more…definitely gives me Parenthood vibes too!

  37. Lily (Beauty With Lily)
    December 2, 2016 / 6:20 pm

    I haven't watched any of those shows besides, This Is Us. The first few episodes were REALLY good, but I feel like these last few were just okay. Maybe because it started off SO good, I had higher expectations. LOL!
    Hope you have a good weekend, B!
    xo, Lily
    Beauty With Lilyο»Ώ

  38. SMD @ lifeaccordingtosteph
    December 2, 2016 / 6:38 pm

    The Affair is one of my favorites. You remind me I need to finish Season 2 of Bloodline!

  39. Jillian
    December 2, 2016 / 6:58 pm

    I love younger!! it's such a fun show. and i need to start The Crown soon. xo jillian – cornflake dreams

  40. Missy
    December 2, 2016 / 6:58 pm

    Yay I love these kinds of posts. I am loving this is us and I need to get on the Crown. I am going to go back and look at that book review, all of them sound great! Have a fabulous weekend!

  41. Shelly @ The Queen in Between
    December 2, 2016 / 7:45 pm

    50 books!! That is incredible! I am seriously still trying to hit my goal of 12 LOL.

  42. Shannon Jenkins
    December 2, 2016 / 11:11 pm

    I have been wanting to watch the crown! It is next on my list and I LOVE younger!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles

  43. Brandi Jo Little, Author
    December 2, 2016 / 11:30 pm

    man, i must need to pay more attention when I'm watching "the crown" haha! everyone has said that it's so good but i just can't get into it! i do love "this is us" though!!!

  44. Emelia at Dream Big & Buy the Shoes
    December 3, 2016 / 12:24 am

    I watched part of the first episode of This Is Us (coincidentally in the hotel in Boston) and fell asleep without seeing the whole thing…haha, it was a long day. I have heard nothing but good things about it so I may binge watch one of these weekends πŸ™‚

  45. A Dash of Pretty
    December 3, 2016 / 1:05 am

    I have to order that bronzer immediately! Isn't the CC cream the greatest ever?! And so is Younger!

  46. Tiffany {A Touch of Grace}
    December 3, 2016 / 2:51 am

    I walked by a salon today and they carried that line of hair care products; and I'm in the market for a new dry shampoo so I'll definitely check it out.
    And This Is Us is sooo good!

  47. Julia
    December 3, 2016 / 1:10 pm

    Perfect post for the weekend! Makes me think about making a list of my favorites!

  48. Robin
    December 4, 2016 / 1:35 am

    I might try the Moroccan oil dry shampoo. I've been using a Suave one and it makes my hair feel bend-y for about two days, even after I do a regular washing.

  49. Karly @ What Karly Said
    December 4, 2016 / 8:09 pm

    Younger is still on my watch list – we just finished The Crown and loved it, too! I have been waiting months for my library to add One True Loves to the ebook library, but if it doesn't happen soon I'll just buy it. I know so many people love it! I also added The Balance Project to my list – it sounds like a good read!

  50. chantal marie
    December 4, 2016 / 8:26 pm

    Thanks for the recs. We just finished Blue Bloods on Netflix and need a new show! I also need a new audio book to listen to on long work drives. I'll check these out!

  51. Straight A Style
    December 5, 2016 / 2:01 am

    Great idea to wrap up the year with favorites. Thanks for sharing!

    Amy Ann
    Straight A Style

  52. Kristen @ See You In A Porridge
    December 5, 2016 / 5:45 pm

    i have heard amazing things about the IT Cosmetics CC Cream (i feel like i only really heard about it this year as well, must be under the same rock lol) but i still haven't tried it. when i am 'allowed' to shop again, i will get it for sure. dang 50 books, you go girl! that is awesome. i think One True Loves is my favourite of TJR as well. so good! i watched a few episodes of Younger but didn't finish it, so i need to catch up. and i STILL haven't watched This Is Us. i will get to it eventually and probably binge watch lol

  53. According to Kiki
    December 5, 2016 / 8:21 pm

    They better never stop selling the Butter Bronzer because I am in love with it. lol I have been using it since the spring too and it's like one of THE BEST products in my arsenal! (:

  54. Julie @ Just the Joy's
    December 6, 2016 / 7:19 pm

    I've got to get on the bus with the "This is Us" show! I've been recording it to the DVR but haven't had a chance to watch it! Everyone has been raving about it!

  55. Tanya Dufour
    December 13, 2016 / 4:08 am

    I haven't tried alot of the beauty products that you mentioned above besides the butter bronzer which I love! I need to try this IT cosmetics cc cream that everyone raves about. I'm just so picky with foundation. I just purchased a travel size Living Proof Dry Shampoo to try out. I need to put the Moroccan one on my list to try out. I just got the Estee Edit Barest Bronzer which I can't wait to try! The shows that were new to me this year were Stranger Things and Too Close to Home. They are completely different but I loved both! I'm watching Westwood now.