Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Monday, September 30, 2013

Lookbook: The Neo Natural

| Insight Neo Noise top c/o Surfdome | NastyGal magenta Dakota Drape Jacket | Shoedazzle Erin pumps | 3.1 Phillip Lim Mini Satchel | Forever 21 flared jeans | Anastasia Bevery Hills Brow Wiz | NARS Tinted Moisturizer |
Quick Update
  • I recently updated my car insurance and my policy was adjusted. So Geico took it upon themselves to mail me a refund check for 6 cents. Preparing and mailing that check cost tons more than the check itself. If I buy a can of coke and it cost $1.06--can I give the clerk a dollar and this check? God, they'd be so damn offended.
  • It's crazy how much I like Peyton Manning. I love football and Peyton is one of my faves. The weird thing is, I don't find him to be attractive at all. But I just can't get enough of that country bumpkin, especially considering how superficial I can be when it comes to boys and their looks.
  • OK, so I have absolutely nothing of great import to share with you. The week has been pretty hectic and I'm finding less and less time to sit with my thoughts and come up with witty banter. But I will say, I am super happy for fall TV to be back--and by fall TV, I mean Parks and Rec. How does it manage to be as thoughtful as it is funny?
Anyhoo, what do you think of this look?
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Friday, September 27, 2013

Featured Fashionistas: Mallory & Whitney


Featured Fashionistas
Mallory & Whitney from The Bay Area
I'll be featuring a few San Francisco Bay Area blogger babes in my next installments of the Featured Fashionista series. I first met this dynamic duo at the BloggerBelle at FashionElles event back in May of this year. They were super easy to talk to and were dressed so beautifully. The two met in college and have been friends since, which is so enthusiastically displayed on their blog by the Bay.

What do you think of Mall and Whit's looks?

Want to be a part of Featured Fashion? Then leave a comment letting me know that you want me to feature your style on the Muse!


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Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Quick & Easy Shopping with eBay Now

It's time to let you guys in on some shopping know-how with eBay Now if you're not yet familiar with it. eBay Now is a shopping service that allows you to buy products from thousands of retailers through the eBay Now website or app and then receive them at your front door about an hour later. I recently ordered a few items from Target using the app and about 60 minutes later an eBay Now shopping valet delivered it to my home for just a $5 flat rate fee.

Stores that are included that I think you muses will love are Bed Bath & Beyond, Sunglass Hut, Walgreens, Free People, Macy's, Target and Urban Outfitters--to name a few. You will need an eBay account (which a lot of you probably already have) to use the site, and you pay for your items via PayPal or major credit cards like anything else you'd order online. 

The eBay Now service lets you speak to your shopping valet if you have questions, track your valet to see the location of your order, or easily return items if necessary. The only catch is that the service is currently only open to the San Francisco Bay Area (except East Bay) and New York City (Queens, Manhattan & Brooklyn). Although they can't deliver alcohol, prescription drugs or major appliances that won't fit in the valet vehicle, they can totally deliver clothes, shoes, accessories and some grocery products to your door. And the service is available seven days a week at convenient shopping times.

Other great fast and fun shopping options include Amazon Prime, which gives you free two-day shipping on a variety of items. Or Google Shopping Express, which pretty much does the same thing as eBay Now. Or even TaskRabbit, which lets you post any random task you need done--anywhere from putting together an Ikea desk to walking your dogs--and then a TaskRabbit employee comes to your home and takes care of it and you pay online.

Have you used any of these quick and easy shopping devices like eBay Now, Amazon Prime or TaskRabbit?
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Monday, September 23, 2013

Lookbook: Chain Gang of Fools


Have you ever sat at a table in a restaurant that was right next to the window and spent a good portion of your time people watching? It's such a fun pastime. The other day I'm pretty sure I watched a couple break up and get back together right outside of the bar. My friends and I were trying to figure out what they were saying based on their body language and hand movements. Eventually we decided that since we were talking about them, they were probably talking about us and wondering why the hell these strangers kept staring at them.

And yes, that's my new Phillip Lim mini satchel that I scored at Tar-jay the other day. I think the size of it makes it totally adorbs, but the hubs keeps saying it looks like it's for babies. Super stylish babies, I'd say. Oh, and the post title is clearly a play on chain gang style because of the striped top, in case you weren't aware.
| H&M striped cotton blouse | Forever 21 panel leggings | Random black floppy hat | 3.1 Phillip Lim black mini satchel | Christian Siriano pumps |
Quick sidebar and I might lose some fans for this: I was going to keep my mouth shut on the Robin Thicke Blurred Lines craziness, but I just couldn't hold it in any longer. I think people should stop dissecting the lyrics of the song and calling Thicke and company misogynists. Thicke, Pharrell and T.I. are all married to women they've been with forever and haven't demonstrated any hate for women or need to rape. Am I the only one who has watched T.I. & Tiny? I find it truly bewildering if people want to blame a song for the cause of rape or setting women back. That's just senseless. If someone says, "Blurred Lines made me do it" I'm going to throw a major hissy fit. Terrible people will always find a way to do terrible things. 

But if we want to talk music, why not get your panties in a bunch over the bevy of rap songs that constantly refer to women as bitches and hos--and then those same rappers who actually showcase how they really feel about women when they physically abuse them in real life (i.e. Dr. Dre--oh wait, let's forget I said that so you can feel comfortable wearing your Beats headphones). I mean, I see more reason to dislike Chris Brown for what he physically did to Rihanna than to dislike Robin Thicke for a song. 

And what about Floyd Mayweather who just took home millions of dollars for a Pay-Per-View boxing match that generated $150 million (that's how many people wanted to see it). Remember when he punched his ex-girlfriend in the back of her head? That's right, a professional boxer punched a woman in the back of the head; and a singer turned another singer's face into a discombobulated Mr. Potato Head, yet we are up in arms over some lyrics?

I'm totally fine if the song doesn't appeal to you or if you don't like the lyrics or the video, but to practically want to correlate it with rape and abuse against women is tragic because you're really missing the mark. Steer your attention toward the people who truly deserve the heat--the ones who have given you physical reasons why they should be detested, yet are still raking in the money.

And just to mention the Emmys on here, Kerry Washington was my best dressed.
And by the way, what do you think of this look?
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Friday, September 20, 2013

What I'm Loving in September


My first tattoo is of hearts and a Pisces symbol on my lower abdomen that I got in college, and the second is of butterflies on the back of my neck that I got some time in 2009. I think I'm due for a third, as long as it's as uniquely placed as the ones featured here.

I love all types of sunglasses, but these particular Gucci sunglasses are super beautiful to me. Don't you just love the semi-frameless Gucci look and great angles? I think these designer sunglasses will make anyone look chic this fall.

NYFW was chock-full of great ready-to-wear designs for Spring 2014, but my favorites were definitely by Australian brand Zimmermann and Mara Hoffman. It was Zimmermann's debut at NYFW and they really rocked it out. And the first Saturday of fashion week was all about Mara Hoffman in my eyes. Stun-ning!

Even though I'm not really into Lady Gaga, every few years she comes out with a song that I can't get out of my head--in a good way. In 2009 it was Paparazzi and this year it's Applause. After seeing her perform it at the VMAs last month I've become a bigger fan of the song. And I just realized her video could inspire a good Halloween costume.

What are you loving this September?
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Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Makeup & Muses: Sephora Color IQ

Have you tried the Sephora + Pantone Color IQ yet? I saw an ad for it in my September issue and had an "OMG, where have you been all my life?" moment because I feel like I'm always wearing the wrong foundation. It either makes my skin look ghost-like or too dark for words.

I went to my local Sephora and had them get my Color IQ on. They place the matching device on three different parts of your face (since skin tone varies across your face) and then this number appeared on the screen: 1Y12. They put the number into the website and a bevy of foundations for my skin type popped up, including ones that work for dry skin.

After testing a couple on my hand, I went ahead with the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30 in Seychelles. I love a good tinted moisturizer, especially one that matches my medium dark with golden olive undertones!

Then I was like, "Two birds with one stone, Cheryl" and had the Sephora beauty expert fill in my brows. I'm using the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Brunette, which is a brow pencil on one side and a brush on the other to even out the look. Also wearing Electro Baby Lips by Maybelline in Pink Shock courtesy of the giveaway I won on Style Through Her Eyes.
What do you think of the finished product?
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Monday, September 16, 2013

Lookbook: Robot Sweater Weather


I love kids. I love dogs. But I don't think kids should be allowed to do things that dogs can do, like pee in public. I've had some interesting encounters with children this month.

First, some mom let her toddler walk around CVS with only underwear on...and everyone (except me) thought it was the cutest thing since bashful puppies and kitties that say I Love You. Who does that? Second, an older child was waiting behind me in the Jamba Juice line at the mall and tapped my shoulder to ask if I would let her go in front of me. Who does that? She was too old to play the "I'm super cute and adorable" card. Then, while walking to Sephora in a different mall, some random child lunged in front of me and hugged me--a complete stranger. Her mom just kept chatting with the kiosk lady. Who. Does. That?
Anyway, on to the clothes. Don't be alarmed. The orange is a part of the petal scallop shorts and not underwear. But yes, those are cartoon robots on my sweater. It's not quite sweater weather just yet here in the bay, but it's getting there. I was a bit taken aback by how chilly it was this past weekend, but no worries because these cute, little robots and comfy cutout booties kept me warm.

| Cynthia Rowley sunglasses | Forever 21 quirky robot sweater | UrbanOG wisteria shorts | Charlotte Russe sueded cutout ankle bootie | 
What do you think of this look?
~~~
By the way, this is what I scored from the Phillip Lim for Target collaboration on Sunday. My main objective was to grab the bags that I loved so I'm very happy with the outcome. I was the first in a line of about 20 people, there was no running, and people were nice. I even had 6 bags in my cart and then gave 3 away and even saw some people do a trade. Also, I bought the black tote bag with gusset (the one that is reminiscent of Lim's $900 Pashli), but I'm not sure I'll keep it.
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Friday, September 13, 2013

Inspiring Style: Phillip Lim for Target Faves

Phillip Lim for Target hits stores Sunday, September 15! I'm going to shop this collection the same way I shopped the Prabal Gurung designer collaboration: in store. I used to shop these things at midnight online, until I realized I could drive 5 minutes down the street to Target when the store opens and try things on without the hassle. My local Target was no fuss, no muss last time and I'm hoping for the same experience this time around.

Although there are many pieces in this Phillip Lim for Target collection that aren't my style, I am kind of gaga over the handbags. I'd like to snatch up a bag in blue and in black and that shirt dress too because the paper floral print is pretty awesome--as long as it doesn't actually feel like paper.

Will you be shopping this collection over the weekend?

P.S. ~ Back in May, Sarah of Yes and Yes featured me as a Real Life Style Icon, and she recently came out with an e-book titled Be Your Own Style Icon, which features a bevy of beautiful bloggers including yours truly! Check out these great tips and tricks from your favorite bloggers by downloading your free copy of the book here.
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Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Lookbook: Oxblood & Operas

San Francisco is full of interesting things to see and do. I like that I live in south bay, but it's always nice to go to the city for fun events like Opera in the Park, especially when everyone is drinking wine and some are even dressed up in crazy getups--follow me on Instagram to see what I mean.

I wore this oxblood ensemble to the city and was so happy that I brought this hat. It was quite sunny in the city, which doesn't happen often. We parleyed some free ice from one of the vendors because I was not down with drinking warm white wine. And can I tell you something? I don't own many cardigans, and I really don't know why because this was the most comfy thing ever. Lightweight enough to keep me from being too hot and cozy enough to keep away the windchill. Don't think you can see here, but the cardi has the cutest stud buttons!
| Forever 21 oxblood fedora (on sale for $6) | Maybelline Electro Baby Lips lip gloss | Arrow necklace c/o Blue Nile | Charlotte Russe oxblood stud button boyfriend cardigan | Forever 21 v-neck tee | Forever 21 classic ankle denim | Charlotte Russe suede d'orsay flats |

And how cute is my arrow necklace from Blue Nile? I'm really into both chunky, statement necklaces and dainty ones too--is that weird? I just love the dual tone with the rose gold vermeil of the arrow pendant against the sterling silver chain. By the way, all you Muses get 10% off your next Blue Nile order with the code BNFALL10.
What do you think of this look?
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Monday, September 9, 2013

iFabbo Conference: Meet Your Fashion Correspondent

Muses, we all know there are only a few days left for the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, and that there was neither a Fashion's Night Out in NYC nor an IFB Conference this year. But don't fret! There is still another opportunity for us bloggers to get dolled up, meet new friends and even learn something: the 2013 iFabbo Social Media Conference. Check the deets:

  • Saturday, October 12, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Merchants Exchange Club - San Francisco, CA
  • Hosted by iFabbo: International Organization for Fashion, Beauty & Style Bloggers & Brands

Style and beauty bloggers can attend the 2nd annual iFabboSFCon at a stunning venue in the heart of San Francisco. With your ticket you get admission to the fashionable conference, an invite to the cocktail after party, included lunch, snacks and drinks, and of course, a to-die-for goodie bag valued at more than $350.
The panels include speakers from Disqus, Google+, Facebook, Boohoo.com, ShopStyle, Glam.com, HSN and more. You can tell by the panels that the goodie bag is going to be sweet! Learn how to monetize your blog, increase your followers and develop brand relationships, all while talking about the future of fashion in the digital space and tips for better photography.

And just for being one of my muses, you can buy a ticket to iFabboSFCon for the founder's invitation discount of only $50! You're getting so much for so little. So what are you waiting for? Get your ticket now and I'll see you there! I'll be the stylish muse with the video camera as the official iFabbo Fashion Correspondent.

Click here to buy your ticket. Will I see you there?
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Friday, September 6, 2013

Lookbook: The Painted Chambray

Dude, it's been such a busy week. I just keep asking myself, "can I stop doing stuff now?" but it seems to never end. Basically, my plate is really full, and I keep putting more things on my plate, and then I wake up the next day, see the plate on the counter and wonder why it's not yet empty! I think I need some Kahlua and a Game of Thrones marathon.

Anyway, I wore this to run some errands, which meant stopping by Sephora for some quick pickups for an upcoming post. What I love about this chambray top is that it's atypical because of the soft draping and paint wash pattern. So it stands out in a long line of denim shirts.
| H&M patterned chambray shirt | Forever 21 classic ankle denim | Lily Wang wonderland necklace c/o ShopLately | Forever 21 heartbreaker loafers |
What do you think of this look?
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Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Makeup and Muses: Masque Bar by Look Beauty Review


It's my understanding that this product came out spring of this year, but I recently heard about the Masque Bar by Look Beauty when I saw it advertised in my September issue of InStyle. This is a facial sheet mask that comes in five treatments: brightening, firming & lifting, wrinkle reducing, pore refining and anti-blemish.

I chose the Masque Bar by Look Beauty Brightening Sheet Mask because it specifically treats dark spots and provides an even skin tone. I bought it at Target for $9.99 for a pack of three sheets. The sheet is hypoallergenic, unscented and easy to use.

First you cleanse your face and dry it. Then remove the sheet from the packet and lay it flat on your face so it fits securely. The mask comes with holes for your eyes, nose and mouth, of course. All you do is leave it on your face for 20-30 minutes and then peel off.
I suffer from dry skin, so it was great that my skin did not feel tight after I removed the mask. It actually felt pretty smooth and soft. Three of the main ingredients are water, orange extract and Vitamin C. My favorite thing about this product was that it was a mask that I could easily apply and remove. I've only used it once so although my skin felt good, I can't yet say that my dark spots are gone or that my complexion is more even--at least not until I use the other two masks in the packet.

Overall, I would definitely continue to use this brightening sheet mask to continue to see results.
Rating: ♥♥♥
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Monday, September 2, 2013

Inspiring Style: Transitioning Your Wardrobe Into Fall

| Faliero Sarti oblong scarf | BP basic beanie | Zac Posen Eartha top handle satchel | Tory Burch Simone wool cardigan | AE Vegan leather moto jacket | ModCloth swooning over style tights | Jeffrey Campbell Everly cutout ankle boot |

It's the last few weeks of summer, but I know that so many of us are already gearing up for fall fashion. Here are a few key pieces to add to your style (or remove from the back of the closet) when it comes to transitioning your wardrobe into fall.

Wrap scarves will keep your neck warm while slouch beanies are perfect for both style and comfort. I don't own a top handle satchel just yet, but I know where to pick one up very soon. I'm talking to you Phillip Lim for Target! Pieces like wool cardigans and cashmere sweaters are go-to looks that easily turn summer into fall. 

And although I wear jackets year round, a moto jacket can actually be pretty good for the fall because there are many places in the country (and world) that experience semi-cool autumns and need a chic layered look without the layered feel. Patterned tights are the best accessory to wear under skirts, shorts and dresses when the temperatures fall, and the best place to show skin in this season is through cutout ankle boots that are all the rage!

What pieces will you be wearing to transition your wardrobe into fall?
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