Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Monday, December 30, 2013

Be Upworthy in 2014!

It's the last blogging day of the 2013 year for me. Since I don't blog on Tuesdays, and since it's always great to start the week off right, I thought I'd share some amazing videos from Upworthy with you. The other day I was on this site for so long, pretty much having a cry fest of joy. And since I'm spending the holidays away, this is the perfect post to lift your spirits and remember that people are inherently good.

GoldieBlox believes girls deserve more toy choices than dolls and princesses--they can be engineers too.


Educating Yorkshire shows us that a little inspiration from The King's Speech can help a kid find his voice.


Elevation Church lets moms know that they are more appreciated than they could imagine.

StoryCorps and POV tell us that it's always easier to get by with a little help from a friend.


Common Ground shows us that you don't need to have a lot of money to feed a lot of people in need.

Oh yeah, comments have been disabled for this post (because I'm off drinking wine somewhere and won't have time to read and reply). Plus, it's not about the comments. It's about the stories.
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Friday, December 27, 2013

Movie Review: End of Year Movies

Back in October, I listed a handful of movies that were on my radar. Now that's it's the last weekend of the year, let's do a quick rundown of the movies I've seen in the last two months and how they fared.

Carrie - October 18: Although I'm a big fan of Chloe Moretz and think she does a great job in everything, the movie itself was not that great. It was just average, which is pretty much a cardinal sin when it comes to remaking great movies. Rating: ♥

12 Years a Slave - October 18: This wasn't initially on my radar because it seemed like too sad a movie, but I had to watch it after the great reviews. It was such an awesome story that deserves some awards this season. I couldn't believe it was a true story played beautifully by Chiwetel and the gang. It's one of two movies on here with both Brad Pitt and Michael Fassbender. Rating: ♥       

The Counselor - October 25: So many great actors in this movie, which is why it isn't a total disappointment. Even though the story line was a bit pretentious and boring, there were some memorable scenes by Cameron Diaz. Sadly, Brad Pitt does not eat in this film. I was almost 100% certain that he eats in every movie he's in. There's even a website dedicated to what Brad puts in his mouth, lol. Rating: ♥♥

Dallas Buyer's Club - November 1: I've never seen Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto so skinny. Way too skinny. It's based on a true story, but this movie is mostly about the acting. Let's give Jared a medal for being the most attractive AIDS-ridden transgender on film. That boy is so pretty. Rating: ♥

Thor: The Dark World - November 8: Baby Pitt is the coolest. I see movies just because he's in them. I do the same for Ryan Gosling, JGL, Brad Pitt and Jennifer Lawrence. Is that weird? Thor was a great action movie, was pretty funny, and Loki is great. Everyone likes Tom Hiddleston right? Rating: ♥

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire - November 22: I've read all the books and I saw the first movie, and I'm happy to report that the second movie was so much better than the first. It stays true to the book and it is a lot darker, which is what I like. I even felt like I was seeing the story for the first time because I had forgotten how book 2 ended, so that made the ending even better. Rating: ♥ 

Out of the Furnace - December 6: Set with a great cast of Christian Bale, Zoe Saldana, Casey Affleck, Woody Harrelson and more, this film is well acted and really shows the struggle of the American economy after war. Bale and Harrelson really make the movie pop with intensity and intrigue, but I didn't know what to make of the last two minutes of the film. What am I supposed to take from this? Rating: 

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug - December 13: Yes, it is a weird pronunciation of the dragon's name, but that's how it's supposed to sound. I really enjoyed this second installment of The Hobbit, even though I think it was probably 20 minutes too long (almost 3 hours). If you didn't like the ending, it's just sticking to the book, much like The Hunger Games. And ladies, Orlando Bloom returns as Legolas. Rating: ♥

Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues
 - December 18: I don't know if I'm in the majority or the minority when I say this, but I thought the original Anchorman was one of the funniest movies I'd ever seen. The same can't be said for the sequel, but it does have its moments. I like Ron Burgundy and Brian Fantana, but didn't get many laughs from the rest of the supporting cast. Rating: 

American Hustle - December 20: It started off slow but eventually picked up with the help of a great cast and some beautiful costumes that transformed you back to the 1970s. Although it was quite funny and entertaining--Bale's elaborate combover, Lawrence's arsonist ways--I do feel like it didn't live up to its trailers. And I really want to know how the ice fishing story ends, but I think that's a mystery that will never be solved. Rating: 

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty - December 25: The main thing that made me want to see this movie? Hearing Of Monsters and Men playing during the trailer. Ben Stiller is Walter Mitty, a man whose constant daydreaming keeps him from living life to the fullest. An unexpected assignment gives Walter the chance to find what he's been missing. I can tell you that the main difference between Walter Mitty and American Hustle is this: I expected Hustle to be an A+ movie, but it turned out to be more B-. Mitty was expected to be C average, and ended up being B+, so keep that in mind when you're reading reviews. Even though I'm giving them the same amount of hearts, expectations made Mitty a more enjoyable film. Rating: 



Tell me your thoughts if you've seen any of these 2013 movies!
♥ - don't see | ♥ - rent it | ♥ - watch in theaters
Still on my radar: The Wolf of Wall Street & Her
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Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Winter Is Coming

Winter is coming, or perhaps it is already here. And although it doesn't look like this winter wonderland in my neck of the woods, it definitely feels like it. Still not sure if I want to spend my winter holiday some place warm and loungy or cold and snugly, but I do know that I will enjoy it either way.Comments are disabled for this post. Please Tweet me or Comment on Facebook!
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday!
Share Your Thoughts On Facebook or Twitter!
photography from the web
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Monday, December 23, 2013

Lookbook: I Woke Up Like This

| Target felt boater hat | Boy Meets Girl personalized Coco hoodie | Isabel Marant for H&M top | Glint & Gleam ship wrecked ring c/o ShopLately | Forever 21 pants | Legwarmers (old) | Nicole Miller socks via TJ Maxx |

Of course, the title of this post is based on the song Flawless from Beyonce's new album. Yea, the secret Beyonce album that was released without any press and practically broke the internet a little over a week ago. I think it's my favorite song from the album (although Mine featuring Drake is a close second).

So yes, I woke up like this...sort of. The head wrap is common sleepwear for natural hair girls, and the socks are super cozy during the winter. But no, I clearly don't sleep in hats (who does?) or look this put together before 9 AM on a weekend. Plus, I thought these photos would work really well in black and white, especially with some puppy photo bombing. And who doesn't like an excuse to wear legwarmers, am I right? We flawless, ladies tell 'em.
What do you think of this look?
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Friday, December 20, 2013

Featured Fashionista: Caity


Featured Fashionista
Caity from the Bay
So I'm really into redheads. Bryce, Jessica, Isla, Jayma, Emma...and my favorite local redhead--Caity! She always looks like she's jet-setting and ready to go somewhere fancy. And don't get me started on the pull back hairstyle...lurv! I don't know anyone who rocks this signature look better.

Blog: Moi Contre La Vie
What do you think of Caity's look?

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, December 18, 2013

Lookbook: When Art Meets Science

| Urban Outfitters Silence + Noise leather shift dress (as shirt) | What Would Jackson Pollock Do tights c/o Peek Brooklyn | Urban Outfitters metallic shorts (similar) | Glint & Gleam noble steed necklace c/o ShopLately | Shoedazzle Nardith pumps | Via Spiga asymmetrical-front cape c/o | Urban Outfitters braided chain head wrap |

This is my holiday party look that I wore to The Exploratorium museum of science and art in San Francisco over the weekend. Some sparkle but nothing crazy. And I realize that when the cape is closed it looks like I'm not wearing any shorts, but my idea was to tell everyone at the party that the no shorts look was in and on trend.

You can see what I wore to the holiday party last year. Clearly, I associate holiday parties with capes. I didn't want to wear a dress because it's pretty cold here these days, but I still went ahead and put on shorts instead like a fool. This look is very similar to the inspiring look that I created for office holiday parties.
What do you think of this look?
P.S. ~ The winner of the Amy O. Jewelry Glitz Carraway Necklace is....Elle Sees!
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Monday, December 16, 2013

Giveaway: Holiday Wishlist with Coupons.com

| Toms shoes | Microsoft Surface | Jambox speaker | Sephora makeup | Urban Outfitters turntable | K2 A.M.P. Force skis  | East Side Collection dog hoodies | Boy Meets Girl x Roman Luxe ring collection at Macy's |

If this layout idea looks familiar, it's because I got it from J. Crew. Such a fun design to try for gift guides and wishlists. But to be honest, I don't really want or need anything this holiday season. It's weird, because I could totally snatch up some Alexander Wang looks, but do I really need them? No, not so much. And it would be nice to have a Samsung Smart TV, but is there anything wrong with the TV I already have? No, not at all.

But we did get our greedy little hands on a few things. Needed a new pair of buy one, give one Toms; a kit since I'm really into eyebrows at the moment; a record player now that all new music comes in album form too; and a luxe ring from this hot collection (now 25% off!). The hubs got a Surface to waste more time; a Bluetooth device for wireless freedom; and downhill foot gear. The pups got comfy sweaters for posing in our annual holiday card.

All in all, I really don't need a damn thing. Other than maybe a vacation. But I will buy some things for friends and family, so thankfully, this Coupons.com holiday sweepstakes has awesome holiday gift guides for moms, dads, teens and kids that should give you some shopping inspiration.

And you can enter the giveaway below to win a $200 Amazon gift card hosted by me and a group of lovely bloggers. The giveaway ends December 24 and is open to U.S. Residents only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway


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Friday, December 13, 2013

What I'm Loving in December

The Netflix show is a pretty big deal, so I went ahead and bought the book the show is based on. Orange Is the New Black, which I just finished, is about Piper Kerman's time in a minimum security women's prison. If you love the show, you'll love the book too. Now the only thing left to do is bum a Netflix trial off a friend.

After I heard about glittens the other day, I knew I would be searching the internet for a great pair like these from Calypso St. Barth. I just love the whole concept of having finger-less gloves so you can send your Instagram photos and text, while then being able to cover up your phalanges with a mitten to keep warm.

These bordeaux colored biker-inspired leather pants by Scotch & Soda are no joke. I love the quilted knee patches (reminds me of the Isabel Marant for H&M pants). The coolest thing about Scotch&Soda is that accessories come paired with many of the clothing items in stores, like at the Santana Row location by me.

OK, I'm totally not a coffee fanatic. I could go without it forever if need be. But I've always had a thing for caramel macchiato at Starbucks. It contains syrup, milk, espresso, foam and caramel drizzle. Recently, I've been getting it in size short, and I have no idea why I hadn't been ordering this size all along. It's the perfect amount of coffee for a caramel lover like me.

Now that I have a turntable, I can finally listen to the records that I own, which also now include more modern albums like the new Lana Del Rey, etc. I just really like the whole idea of not only listening to the classics but also the new hotness via superb audio quality on a sleek record. Makes me feel a bit smug, y'all.

As you might know, two of my favorite comic book characters are Betty and Veronica, so I was happy to hear that Charlotte Olympia created an Archie Comics Resort 2014 collection. Pieces include clutches and shoes. How cute are these ballet flats? If only I knew where to buy them!

Now I'm more into eyebrows than ever before, and it's weird because I never used to care much about these things. A product that I've been into lately is the SmartBrow Eyebrow filler. I have it in the black/brown shade and its hair-like fibers really helped to fill in my oh, so sparse brows for a natural look.

So I'm smitten with just about everything in the C. Wonder home decor section. How cute are these $8 votive candle holders, the lucite decorative accent pieces, and--my faves--the fork cheese markers set! I recommend you shop C. Wonder either in store or online for some fab gifts for your home.

If you watch The Voice, then I'm sure you know who Tessanne Chin is; and if you listen to any reggae music at all, then you've probably heard of her sister Tami Chynn as well. They, like me, were born in Kingston, Jamaica. I have been all over their music this month, especially Tessanne's cover of Underneath It All from the show and Tami's song Tell Mi Seh, which is running around in my head at the moment.

And the winner of the Boy Meets Girl personalized hoodie giveaway is...Britny Gill! Congrats!

What are you loving this December? Beyonce's secret new album, perhaps?
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Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Makeup and Muses: Obiqo New Zealand Skincare Review

For the past three weeks I've been using two new products by a brand called Obiqo. Obiqo is a New Zealand brand of sea-inspired skincare products. They have products like face scrubs, eye creams and body washes, all at quite affordable prices. The two items that I was sent to review for you Muses are the Obiqo Restoring Night Cream, which is currently on sale for $15, and the Obiqo Silky Body Butter, which you can get for $15 as well.

The Obiqo restoring night cream is nutrient rich in sea kelp and natural marine extracts to promote elasticity while you sleep. The primrose oils are great for creating smooth skin, which you can definitely feel after you put it on. This is perfect for me because I have dry skin, which becomes more of an issue in the winter.

Because of my age, I don't really have to worry about losing firmness just yet, but this is still a great product to add to your skincare routine as you get older. And like I said, I love it mainly for the added softness that would be beneficial for anyone with normal to dry skin.




Also, I've been using the Obiqo silky body butter with marine extracts and sea lavender. Because of my dry skin, I always lather on the lotion. But I've been adding the body butter as well because of its almond oil, manuka leaf and botanical ingredients that keep my skin soft without being greasy.

But my favorite part about the body butter is probably the smell. Both products smell super nice and that's probably due to the subtly scented antioxidant sea lavender. Obiqo also has a face wash and serum that you might like, as I do recommend this affordable kiwi line.


If you'd like to get your hands on either of the products I reviewed, or one of Obiqo's other great skincare items, then use the code 3QJ8LTV2 to get 20% off a purchase of three or more items until Dec. 31.

What do you think of Obiqo skincare? What are you currently using?
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Monday, December 9, 2013

Lookbook: Heart on the Line + Giveaway

Wore this to see Cirque du Soleil Amaluna in the city last week. Amaluna is about a princess whose heart is on the line (much like the heart scarf on my horizontally lined top) when her love is put to the test on a mysterious island. Like all Cirque shows, there is a storyline, but I always get engrossed in the acrobatic visuals that the story takes a back seat. I've seen La Nouba (favorite), Ka, Mystere, Kooza and this one. Actually, I'm not sure which ones I've seen, but I always enjoy them. The touring shows aren't usually as good, but honestly, it's hard to screw up Cirque. FYI: La Reve in Vegas is not a Cirque, but it might as well be because it's amazing.

Afterward I met up with some friends to see a few blues bands perform. Everyone was pretty good, but I noticed that blues music has a specific order: singer plays harmonica; sings about a woman who doesn't want him; gives solos to the guitarist, pianist and sax player; then proceeds to murder the harmonica one last time.

And yes, my top is see through, but no, I was not that cold. The faux fur actually does a splendid job of keeping the heat in. You might remember that it's reversible and I'm wearing it inside out. I seriously went to Target to get some hair products and dog treats and somehow walked out with this top and the jacquard pants too.
| Juicy Couture headband | Rocker De Lempicka necklace c/o Amy O. | Vintage Heart so in love scarf c/o ShopLately | Patterned faux fur vest c/o Bar III | Amy O. bow rings c/o ShopLately | Target see-through top | 3.1 Phillip Lim taupe satchel - Target | Mossimo jacquard ankle zipper pants - TargetRachel Roy Zefferina booties |

Do you like my bow rings and the necklace? They are from a company called Amy O., and they have a ton of preshe, rocker, boho and glitz accessories. Remember I featured this Glitz Carraway necklace in the Muse's Holiday Gift Guide last week? Well now you get a chance to win that necklace, courtesy of Amy O.
Like these Amy O. necklaces but don't want to wait for the giveaway to be over? Well, all you muses get 10% off your purchase of $25 or more AND free shipping. Isn't that the best? Just enter the code ohtobeamuse to get the discount from now until Dec. 31.

What do you think of this look?
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Friday, December 6, 2013

My Winter Music Playlist

It's that time of year again! As the last few days of Chanukah end and it starts to look and feel a lot like Christmas, I can't help but share some of the songs that I'm really enjoying this time of year. It's important to note that some of these are traditional holiday songs while others aren't. The mix of traditional and pop is more truthful to my music tastes anyway. Enjoy and let me know which songs are your favorite during the holidays. Feel free to check out my summer music playlist from August too.

Donny Hathaway: This Christmas -- How could you not like this song? I would play it all year long if that didn't seem weird. It's not just the singing parts that are great, but the jazzy musical instruments too that always get me. Can't get enough.

Lana Del Rey: Blue Jeans -- Not sure why, but this song makes me think of cuddling up by a warm fire...wearing blue jeans. She does mention sweaters and December, so I think it's appropriate. Couldn't you imagine this playing in a montage video of your awesome holiday party?


The Jackson 5: I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus -- This just happens to be one of my all-time favorite Christmas songs. I couldn't stop listening to it when I was a kid. I was totally convinced that all mothers kissed Santa Claus on Christmas when he delivered presents. So although I loved the song, it also made me a bit nervous that I would witness my mother kissing a jolly, bearded man.

Key & Peele: Just Stay for the Night -- This is a parody of Baby It's Cold Outside and it's hilarious. You wouldn't see it as the usual holiday song, but I couldn't help myself, especially since people have found some other (rapey) similarities between the two songs. "Say, what's in this drink?"--ugh, say what?

Adam Sandler: Chanukah Song -- The hubs is Jewish so we tend to celebrate both Chanukah and Christmas. This year, it came a bit early so we'll have to figure out when we'll exchange gifts as we like to do it in between the two holidays. If you really, really wanna-kah, have a happy, happy, Hanukkah!

Norah Jones: Don't Know Why -- It's just such a sweet, sweet song. I feel like summer music is more like a start to a day, while winter music is like an end to a day. And this is the type of song you want to hear at the end of a day while you're sipping on hot chocolate and wearing toe socks.

Mariah Carey: All I Want for Christmas Is You -- Did I mention how the hubs is Jewish? Well, his favorite holiday song is actually a Christmas song--this song, to be exact. He always goes between which version is his favorite: Mariah's or Olivia Olson's from Love Actually. You know the scene!

Cast of RENT: Seasons of Love -- So I know Glee did a version of this, but have you heard the one by the movie cast of Rent? It's effin' fantastic. No one hits notes like Tracie Thoms, my word! There is no way this song doesn't put you in a good mood. 'Tis the season.

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Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Inspiring Style: Muse Holiday Gift Guide + Giveaway

Gifts Under $100
Amy O. necklaces are the business! I have both this Glitz Carraway necklace and their Rocker De Lempicka necklace, and it was really hard perusing the site and not wanting to snatch up all the baubles. The Glitz Carraway is very art deco glamour and goes with practically everything. Find more pieces from this New York-based store at select boutiques or online.

As you might already know, I rock with the Boy Meets Girl brand. I already have so many of their great pieces, and this personalized hoodie is yet another fave. You can get one for a close friend or family member and customize it to say both of your names or memorable words. Right now, you can actually get 15% off your order at Boy Meets Girl until December 31 with code MUSE15 at checkout. But if you don't want to wait, then check the end of this post because I've teamed up with Boy Meets Girl to give away the @You/@Me hoodie to one lucky winner! It's snugly; it's cute; it's personalized.

Gifts Under $50
I know everyone and their mommas shop Baublebar, but I've actually never really delved into the boutique until recently when I couldn't take my eyes off these Gold Text Collars in Cool, Happy and Love. I suggest getting all three and giving two to your besties, and then wearing them together at the same time like a glam, gold chain gang. Wow, talk about a play on words!

AHHH, I love Gillian Flynn! First I read Gone Girl then Dark Places and I just finished Sharp Objects, and I'm in love with the way she writes. I recommend you read all three of her books so we can spam Twitter feeds with our thoughts on them. And yes, Gone Girl is my favorite because it's one of the best books ever written. That's a fact.

You might remember these Wicked Good Cupcakes from an episode of Shark Tank. We sent some as Mother's Day gifts earlier this year, but obviously, they're good for any time of year in flavors like Chocolate Lab, Karat Kake and more. Ooohhh...karat kake.

Seriously, you know how much I love to personalize everything! How cute would these monogram sunglasses by DKM Accessories be with "MUSE" on the side? You can customize your sunnies with your own initials or the initials of a friend. This is a gift guide after all.

Gifts Under $25
Two of my favorite stores for finding unique gifts are Fab and Uncommon Goods. These city map glasses are great examples why. These were created by Boston-based designer Brian Johnson, which means they were made in the U.S. of A! The hubs loves maps so this might be the perfect gift for him, especially since they are dishwasher safe and come with maps of San Francisco, Austin, Atlanta, Seattle and more!

Speaking of Fab, here is a great gift for the Walking Dead fan in your life (which is probably you). Not sure if these Funko bobble heads come in other characters from the show, but that doesn't matter because Michonne is the best character of them all...next to Norman Reedus' Daryl Dixon, of course. FYI: I've seen some in the past for The Nightmare Before Christmas and Game of Thrones.

I have no idea why I haven't been using this e.l.f. Daily Moisture Stick since forever. A balm with aloe, Shea and avocado that I can put on my face or body, and comes in travel size for only $6? Yeah, let's put that in a shopping cart already.

Here is your chance to win your own personalized Boy Meets Girl hoodie for the holidays. Enter the giveaway below to get your hands on this snugly hoodie for free!

What do you think of the Muse's Holiday Gift Guide? What are you looking forward to getting for yourself and others this season? Linking up to IFB Project 125!
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Monday, December 2, 2013

Lookbook: Pencil Me In

Sorry I was somewhat off the grid this past week. I just really wanted to enjoy the short break, which meant a bit of a break from blogs and social as well. But it's December and I'm back. This is a look inspired by Alexa Chung, because I really want to do the whole "sweater and a pencil skirt" thing. We have temperatures in the 60s, but if you're in the sun, you can do with a skirt in certain parts of the bay.

A few weeks ago I bought this sweater on sale for $7, and I got the pencil skirt for half off! Suck it, Black Friday! And you know how much I love details, which is why I went gaga over this studded beanie from ShopLately. Coolest. Beanie. Ever. The knuckle clutch was a gift from my mother-in-law. I have 3 giveaways this month so stay tuned!

| Old Navy heart and soul sweater | Mikki Gordon studded beanie c/o ShopLatelyH&M pencil skirt | Glint & Gleam lost in thought midi rings c/o ShopLately | Christian Siriano pumps | Glint & Gleam slightest whisper necklace c/o ShopLately | Knuckle clutch | Glint & Gleam you stepped out of a dream ring c/o ShopLately |
What do you think of this look?
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