Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Friday, August 29, 2014

Musings of a Muse - Part 8

People always ring my doorbell when I don't have on any pants.

One of my most favorite things to do is go see a matinee by myself. That's my favorite type of "me" time.

In my first Musings of a Muse post in January, I wrote about how I couldn't get to the gym three days a week. Now I go every day. Wow, how the mighty have risen.

Ever ordered something off the menu and then had the waiter come back and tell you that they're out of it? Happens to me practically every other time I go out to eat.

Love when I spend 7 minutes in T.J. Maxx and come out with a Cynthia Rowley cotton tee for $12.

Charcuterie is just the adult version of Lunchables.

Why is it that every time I go to Facebook I see videos upon videos? Facebook has officially become YouTube.

I don't know why I can't just turn my whole house into an office-closet. Every girl needs one.

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Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Makeup and Muses: Amazonian Clay by tarte

As most of you know, I'm not the #1 makeup maven on the block. But that doesn't mean that I don't enjoy wearing makeup that makes my skin look and feel better. Hence my interest in tarte cosmetic's Amazonian Clay collection. The collection features cosmetics infused with clay taken straight from the Amazon River.

The Amazon River collects nutritious fruit and plant matter during its 4,000 mile journey. This clay is collected at the river basin and then harvested in an eco-friendly and sustainable process. The clay is then baked in the sun so the fruit and plant nutrients are preserved. Finally, the clay is shaved into a fine powder before making its way into makeup products like sunscreen, bronzer, tinted moisturizer and waterproof concealer, among many others.

My favorite products from tarte's Amazonian Clay collection are the 12-hour full coverage foundation with broad spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen, the 12-hour waterproof concealer, and the double detox exfoliating facial mask.
The 12-hour full coverage foundation is long lasting. Once we get back into autumn, you'll truly appreciate the full coverage, especially since it feels light and provides a natural look. You can blend and build on the satin-matte finish. The Amazonian Clay reduces dryness and removes oils from the skin's surface.

Concealer is something that a lot of girls swear by--and I can see why with a cosmetic like this 12-hour waterproof concealer by tarte. It's that final step that hides discoloration and skin impurities. For me, that means bye bye breakouts and blemishes. Apply it with your fingers if you wish and have it last all day long.

Last, but certainly not least, is the double detox exfoliating facial mask in the Amazonian Clay collection. This product is more about skincare than makeup, but we all know that a great look starts with a great foundation. The facial mask resurfaces and purifies skin in as little as five weeks. Perfect for even the most sensitive skin types! This, of course, is great for my eczema skin, and everyone loves a good detox every now and then.

So kick it up a notch and start taking care of your skin with these products by tarte cosmetics. Begin with a facial mask that purifies your skin, then add in a full coverage foundation that includes SPF 15 sunscreen--your face will thank you for it as you age. And take a page from Beyonce and keep it flawless with all-day waterproof concealer.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by tarte cosmetics through SiriusSEO. I was compensated to write a post on this topic, but all opinions are my own.

What's your favorite beauty product by tarte?


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Monday, August 25, 2014

Lookbook: Gray's Anatomy

This past weekend I did a little karaoke, which involved paying money to sit in a small room for hours and pretend to know the words to a variety of hits from the '80, '90s and today. It was pretty funny. My two favorite songs to sing at karaoke: Ghetto Superstar and Listen. I also ventured downtown to attend the Italian Family Festa for some Italian eats, gelato and wine tasting. Oh, I think there was grape stomping and bocce ball too.

Finally got to take these new baubles and gel manicure out for a spin. Do you like? And my new Belmont sunglasses from Foster Grant are the perfect pairing alongside this cute Kendra Scott necklace from my August POPSUGAR Must Have box. I've received a couple subscription boxes in the past, but the one for this month has been my absolute favorite. I've already used everything in it, including these yummy cookies!

Right after the hubs took these photos, I took out my Galaxy S3 so we could get an image for Instagram. Two seconds later he made me drop it, and the front screen pretty much shattered. But fortunately, I had just bought the Galaxy S5 two days prior and had it sitting at home until the armor case arrived. Oh, good fortune.

On the Muse: | Belmont sunglasses c/o Foster Grant | Vintage Heart so in love scarf | Kendra Scott cat eye necklace c/o POPSUGAR | Cynthia Rowley top |(similar) | H&M blazer | T.J. Maxx pants | Forever 21 crossbody satchel, heart stud flats, bracelets and rings |

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Friday, August 22, 2014

What I'm Loving in August 2014

For some reason, I just can't get enough of this brand. JOA first caught my eye back at WWDMAGIC in February and I'm still loving them. Each piece is like modern, girly casual. I picked these four pieces to showcase because I'm still diggin' full skirts and organza, but honestly, there are so many great options on the site.

I've said it before and I'll say it again. I don't know why I watch cooking shows since I don't cook. But I am so into MasterChef. I thought my summer reality show of choice was going to be SYTYCD (it usually is), but everyone on MC is killing it right now. Do you watch? It's like I'm living vicariously through them...while salivating.

Do you ever have a moment in your head where you see a friend wearing something you love and all you want to do is snatch it off them, wear it and walk away with a smile on your face? No? Yeah, you have. This is how I feel about unique, fun bangles and bracelets. Bracelets are usually the one piece of jewelry that I forget to put on, but I'm definitely making an exception this month for fashion bangles. And you should too--because I say so!

Raise your hand if you're an avid shower singer? Me too! But I can't be a normal person and keep it in the shower. I have to be a pain and sing in the living room, the car, the gym (at times, until I realize I'm doing it), and even at karaoke now. And I'm not talking about getting up on a stage and embarrassing yourself while your friends drink beer. I'm talking about those specialty places that have karaoke rooms that you can rent. Yes, when you first walk into one of these places it seems quite sleazy and you're hoping it isn't that scene from Taken where you're about to get sold on auction. But I can assure you, it's all good...especially if you can carry a tune.

By now, I'm sure you've heard about Flash Tattoos, as they've been seen all over the music festival crowd lately. And as you already know, I'm a tattoo lover, so I had to get my hands on these jewelry-inspired adornments. It's been a long time since I've had a temporary tattoo. Kind of makes me wonder why in the hell do I want to go through the pain of the real deal? But then I remember that these designs only last like 5 days.

So tell me...what are you loving this month?

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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Inspiring Style: The 1975 - Like Music for Chocolate

This time of year there are many music festivals to attend from Bumbershoot to Burning Man. And although I don't have tickets to any of those, I am a big fan of music and festival fashion. That's why I was particularly interested in this band called The 1975. Most likely, you haven't heard of this English indie rock band, but there are certainly a few songs that you should definitely listen to that will get you in that music festival mood.

The 1975 is a band that loves the "classic good looking guy" look of black, white and leather jackets. Think James Dean! So I thought I'd put together a couple James Dean/The 1975-esque looks (for guys and dolls) from some great pieces from Boohoo.com. The first set is a look for the guys based on the style and musical interest of The 1975. Below that is a similar look that I'd wear. All pieces can be found at Boohoo for $50 or less!

Festival or not, you'll want to get your hands on these classic pieces from the sunglasses to the backpack. It's a mock croc tassel backpack that also comes in red--the it color of the fall for bags. And how cool is that shirt dress?

And the reason this post is titled "Like Music for Chocolate" is because The 1975 has a lot of great songs, but one of my favorites is called Chocolate so I recommend you give it a listen. Robbers is also a sweet treat for your ears!

And if you want to play a fun game, take a minute to take this quiz to find out which festival you are--I'm SXSW. Oh, if you live in the Bay Area, The 1975 will be at The Masonic in San Francisco on Nov. 18--just my luck!

Disclosure: I was compensated for the time taken to write a post on this topic by Boohoo.com, but all opinions are my own.

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Monday, August 18, 2014

Lookbook: Mirror Mirror

I don't know what it is, but I've really been into sunglasses the last couple of months. Do you like the ones I'm wearing here? They are called Althea from GlassesShop.com and they're round and mirrored. I didn't really think I was into mirrored sunglasses until I put on the right pair. The full frames are great, but my favorite part are the unique gold accents. They look just like a pair that Cara Delevingne owns, which doesn't really mean anything to me, but in case you thought they looked familiar. I feel like I'm sitting beach side in the 1980s--and that's a good thing. Trust. Find styles like this and other cool sunnies (like these Concords at a great discount, for example) at GlassesShop. Shop now and get 20% off site wide with special discount code GSMuse just for my followers!

On the Muse: Althea sunglasses c/o GlassesShop | Zara frilly sleeve top | Boohoo pleated pants | Forever 21 chained bangle set | Jessica Simpson cecerre heels | Forever 21 faux leather crossbody satchel |

Man, I've never owned so much white in my life! I just wanted to K.I.S.S. (keep it simple, stupid--journalism phrase) with my look because I was spending the day in the city running some errands for an upcoming trip. In the middle of it all, I stopped at a diner in the city for some cinnamon French toast. You might have seen it here. I used to be really into French toast, but I can't seem to eat more than two slices these days. But enough about the food I eat. Why don't you be a doll and enter this fab $300 gift card giveaway courtesy of me and 9 other awesome bloggers.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway is open to U.S. & Canada and ends 8/24/14
Courtesy of me and these bloggers: | Rach - RD's Obsessions | Kimberley - Eleventh & Sixteenth | Jackie - Something About That | Ivete - Girl in a Hot City | Amy - The Real Arnolds | Jenna - Visions of Vogue | Erin - With a Wink & a Twirl | Kimberly - Mascara Melodies | Andrea - Va Darling |

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Friday, August 15, 2014

Movie Reviews: Guardians of the Galaxy

A couple weekends ago I saw Guardians of the Galaxy with the hubs. He wanted to see it from the moment he saw the first trailer. I love comic book movies, so I was down, even though I didn't think it was going to be awesome. Well, I did quite enjoy it and thought it was a good mixture of fun and sport. To me, there are other Marvel movies that are better, but this is still worth the watch. The soundtrack is boss (yes to "Cherry Bomb" by The Runaways!).

If you're not familiar with the comic, Guardians is about a group of misfits who come together to defend the galaxy from an evil-doer named Ronan the Accuser. The group is made up of Peter Quill/Star Lord (Chris Pratt)--a thief; Gamora (Zoe Saldana)--a bad guy turned good guy; Drax (Dave Bautista)--a guy looking for revenge; Rocket (Bradley Cooper)--a miscreant who loves explosives; and Groot (Vin Diesel)--a walking tree with limited vocabulary, super strength and a heart of gold.

The story line isn't anything unique, but it does tie this film to the other Marvel movies. What makes Guardians so enjoyable is that the action scenes are done well and it has a lot of funny moments too. But I wouldn't call it amazing. Although Bradley Cooper's "Rocket" character is pretty worth it. He is definitely the glue. And kudos to Chris Pratt as well--he's been eating his spinach! My main gripe is that I think they could have done a better job delving into the back stories for the characters. They don't tell you anything deep or too specific about the main group or the villains, so there's  a part of you that doesn't care as much as you should. But I'm about 100% certain there'll be a sequel. So we'll just have to wait and see.
Rating: ♥


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Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Inspiring Style: Budget Beautiful & Bye Bye Birkenstocks

This might sound weird, but I really hate shopping. I hate walking into a mall or department store (or boutique, even) and browsing endless racks of fabric. I loathe trying to find my size and putting things on in a dressing room with dressing room lighting. This is why I prefer to shop online so I don't have to deal with the hassle.

So I thought, what's even easier than shopping online? Having someone else shop online for you! These are pieces I think you will love to add to your wardrobe. And the kicker? Every piece looks more expensive than it actually is as all items are under $80--no bank breaking here. Because guess what? I also hate spending money on clothes!

Collective Concepts shirt dress ~ Pockets and a drop hemline that you can wear alone or with some tights. The shirt dress is a must have because it covers all the basics while still looking chic. On sale for $80!

Waverly Grey Akira zip pocket moto vest ~  An easy go-to piece that you can transition from summer to fall is anything that you can slip over your shoulders and add to your look like a vest or cape. On sale for $69!

Faux Leather crossbody satchel ~ Trapeze style bags are here to stay and for good reason. Get one in red because it's a great color to take into fall. This is modern, sophisticated and inexpensive. Get it for $25!

Red Carpet ivory grid top ~ Caged, grid and sheer are three words that will truly streamline your wardrobe this year, and this piece has all the fixins. Try the matching skirt for a two-piece everyone loves. Get it for $55!

Color Block sandals ~ If you want to try the Birkenstock trend but can't stand the look of them (like me), then get one of these instead. Two-toned, simple and comfy. Forget the Birkenstocks and get these for $70 or $17!

Ripped Knee skinny jeans ~ Ripped jeans aren't anything new, but they're also not going anywhere any time soon. White skinny jeans with rips at the knees are a staple even after Labor Day. How chic? Get these for $40-$50!

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Monday, August 11, 2014

Lookbook: Girlhood

Over the weekend I enjoyed my cheat days and had some sushi and crab cake dinners. But before that, I ran a few errands, which included stopping at the post to pick up this bad boy and taking a trip to Target. I think we all know that you can never just get one thing at Tarjay. I went for a new flat iron (results in the photos) and ended up also getting this lovely blouse. I saw it sitting on a clearance rack and couldn't help but love the design. Once I realized that I had the perfect pair of pink C. Wonder pants to go with it, I was sold! You're sold too, right?

Another thing I did was watch the movie Boyhood (which is why I titled this Girlhood)Have you heard of it? It's a movie (not a documentary) about a boy going through life from age 6-18. But what makes it interesting is that it actually follows the same actor during those 12 years, which means this film took a dozen years to shoot. So yeah, that aspect of Boyhood is super cool and unlike other movies. And overall, it was well done. But because it follows this kid through those awkward teen years, it has a lot of awkward and mundane moments. And even a few scenes that would not make feminists proud. While I would give it at least 3 out of 5 hearts (and not the 98% that critics are saying), I would recommend that you see it for yourself. Something different--yes, but nothing new.

| Amber sunglasses (similar) | Target button down blouse (similar) | C. Wonder stretch skinny cropped pants (similar) | C. Wonder leather block sandals (similar) | Bling magazine clutch |

And the winner of the 3 for $30 Giveaway is: Ashley Bree Perez
And the ORS Giveaway winners are: Ana R., Tamika H. and Kim H.

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Friday, August 8, 2014

My Staged Instagram Life


In the month of July I read a post about staged Instagram shots and completely loved it because it's totally true. Then I saw a couple other bloggers do their own versions of it, so I thought, what the hell! Take a peek into my Instagram lies life (complete with the hashtags)--but let's continue to follow each other, mmkay? I'm awesome.

1. Juicing Shot
What You See
I juice. I read. I'm awesome. Juicing is the new black. #gymlife #smoothie #summerbody

What You Don't
This smoothie took a few tries to actually taste good (imo). And so did the shot. I wanted it to be the perfect green without looking like puke. And I came this close to using a different magazine because I'm not that into T-Swift.

2. Stage Beauty
What You See
How pretty, pretty princess is this lovely Oscar de la Renta perfume? Oh, and I got it for free--don't you wish you could smell it? #sweet #beauty #tbt

What You Don't
OMG, it's difficult to get the right lighting with a clear bottle. I tried it outside--nope. Tried it against the wall--nope. Tried it on the windowsill--nope; until I put this "love" decoration behind it. Wanted to keep it in color (and maybe should have). Almost forgot to actually put it on that day.

3. Oh, Are We Taking a Selfie?
What You See
On my way to do something cool and looking too cute while doing so! Don't you just love my dual color mani, oversize sunglasses and bashful smile. Ain't I a stinker? #nailpolish #pastels

What You Don't
This is probably the 9th take for this shot. And no matter what I did, I couldn't get my hands from looking so manly. And the hubs almost hit the car in front of him on the freeway because I'm usually in charge of paying attention on the road (which I wasn't doing)--even when I'm not the one driving. Btw--who dresses like that to see Mary Poppins?

4. I Have Nothing to Wear (except for the clothes on my back)
What You See
A very artfully done shot with a sneak peek of an outfit post on the blog (outfit here). Everything I wear is perfection, even when I have nothing to wear. #ihavenothingtowear #ootd #weshoplately

What You Don't
I searched through hell and high water to find a colorful wall in Oakland. Apparently, the best walls in Oakland are next to homeless men who scream--loudly. I wanted to get this shot quickly before the homeless man decided to give me an up close and personal scream show.

5. I Don't Always Lunch, but When I Do--I Instagram It
What You See
Yum! This seafood linguine is quite frankly the most delicious thing on the planet, and I'm about to eat it. I'm literally having the most perfect day. #pasta #trivia #shelfie #tablescape

What You Don't
First of all, this is not a tablescape. Stop hashtagging things incorrectly! But unlike some other people, I actually do eat the food that I instagram. I just don't always let other people eat their food until I've Instagrammed it...duh! But seriously, that pasta was amazing.

6. I'm Retro. I'm Cool.
What You See
Don't you always end your day with a nice glass of white wine and a little Lana on your modern, yet vintage record player? No? How sad. (no hashtags, but I did write: "pants optional")

What You Don't
You see that pink vinyl? Yeah, that's not Lana Del Rey. That record is Of Monsters and Men. That's what I was actually listening to at the moment, but I had the Lana album cover out because her cover art is better. I did listen to Lana later though...maybe...not sure. Oh, and I hate that I can see myself in my wine glass. I was quite concerned with spilling it on the carpet. Thankfully, that didn't happen. This girl knows how to hold her liquor.

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Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Lookbook: Crops and Blooms

Friday night I attended a Two Point Oh! meet up in SF at Ducks In A Row. Can't wait to share with you a pair of the cutest shorts I ever did see. Afterward we stopped at the Clift Hotel for a little night fun. Bottle service is the best. The rest of my weekend was spent eating a Turkish breakfast, enjoying a spa date (complete with a facial mask), watching Guardians of the Galaxy (review to come), and relaxing with The Scorch Trials (back to reading).
The post title "Crops and Blooms" is because I'm wearing a crop top with a midi skirt from Bloomies. And because it sounds like gardening and farming. I couldn't help myself even though this post has nothing to do with either.

On the Muse: | Bloomingdale's Lucy Paris organza midi skirt | Target striped crop top (similar) (cooler) | C. Wonder leather block sandals (sold out) | Lyss Loo sunglasses | Cob & Pen Ibiza necklace |
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Monday, August 4, 2014

3 for $30 Giveaway

Today I'm switching it up on you, Muses. Instead of an outfit post, I'm sharing this wonderful giveaway and collaboration. I've teamed up with Candy of Diary of a Southern Belle and Lisa of Lisa a la Mode to bring you a 3 for $30 challenge--all about rompers! You've seen this Topshop romper on the blog back in July 2013 when everything was coming up roses. I recommend you click through to see the back of this playsuit. It's amaze.

Some of the rompers/jumpsuits/playsuits I've worn on the Muse (a few not pictured)--which is your favorite?
Now, for the best part: one lucky follower will win this August giveaway the three of us are hosting, which includes:
| $30 Macy's gift card | Vera Bradley wallet | Curling Iron travel kit | Key necklace | Mason Jar |
Ends Friday, August 8!

a Rafflecopter giveaway If you want to be a part of September's '3 for $30' send info to diaryofasouthernbelle@gmail.com!
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Friday, August 1, 2014

My Workout Music Playlist

If you're an avid Muse reader then you know that I've been working out and eating healthy since May 12. So now that I'm almost three months in, I thought I'd share some of my favorite songs to workout to with this playlist.

Iggy Azalea - Work
The title is motivation enough to give it your all during your routine. It's the perfect song to start with because it puts you in the right mindset.

Sia - Chandelier
Turn up this track if you do more of a dance routine for your form of exercise. No need to replicate the video, just go all out and let the music move you.

Ciara - Get Up
There's a reason this song is on the Step Up soundtrack. It goes per-fect-ly with the motion of the elliptical. Try it and love it!

Beyonce - Countdown
As long as you don't get caught up trying to sing this tune, then you should do fine with it as the musical backdrop to you going hard on the treadmill--or an outdoor run if that's more your speed.

DJ Snake & Lil Jon - Turn Down for What
Prepping for your cool down? Not after you hear this song! Just when you thought you couldn't do 5 more reps remember that working out is all about mind over matter. There's just no room to turn down--and no way to do so with Lil Jon screaming in your ear.

Honorable Mentions: Lil' Kim - The Jump Off | Bruno Mars - Locked Out of Heaven | Katy Perry - This Is How We Do | Britney Spears - Toxic | Ariana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea - Problem |

What do you listen to at the gym?


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