Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Friday, October 31, 2014

Musings of a Muse - Part 10

Happy Halloween!
Originally, the Musings of a Muse post for this month was going to be about fat shaming and skinny shaming. But I no longer feel like writing about that subject matter. Maybe I should have written this post at the start of the month when that topic was hot and heavy on my mind. It was a whole thing about mistaking "overweight" for "curvy" and mistaking "skinny" for "healthy". There is a big difference between being curvy and overweight--they are not the same thing. And the same can be said for considering yourself to be healthy because you're a size 2. Again, not the same at all.

But I digress, I don't really want to talk about size right now. Instead, let's make it a little lighter. What the hell should I be for Halloween this year? I know it might seem last minute--because it is--but I really have no idea this year. I like costumes that are fun, clever, creative and a little scary too. I'm not into "sexy" nurse ideas. So, let me know what you plan on going as this Halloween and give me some ideas too.

What should I be for Halloween?
Jane Lane (from Daria--and the hubs will be Doug Funnie)
Re-use Nightmare Before Christmas costumes
Maleficent
Pop Art
Mad Hatter
Neytiri (from Avatar)
Storm Trooper (Star Wars)
Other
Please Specify:
Poll Maker
And p.s., are you following me on Instagram? I'm on that thing all the time these days so make sure you're staying up to date with my latest pictures and postings: @ohtobeamuse


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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Giveaway: Pure Ice Breast Cancer Mani

October is known for mainly two things: Halloween and the true beginning of autumn. But as the leaves start to fall, we're also reminded that October is known for one other great thing: Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

So with these last couple of days before we move into November, I've partnered with Pure Ice nail polishes to create a breast cancer awareness inspired pink lady mani. I decided to go a little ombre with an accent for a quick and easy look that any Pink Lady from Grease would love. Just some bold colors and fun with studs.
And to put icing on the cake, one of you now has a chance to win all eight of these Pure Ice nail polishes! All 8! This giveaway is hosted on both my blog and my Instagram. It's open to U.S. residents and ends Nov. 7.

  • Tickle Me Pink - on my pinky fingers; a very slight pink shade
  • Girly Girl - on my pointer fingers; a bit of a sparkly gloss finish
  • Pretty in Pink - on my middle fingers; one of my favorites; slight watermelon tone
  • Satin Ribbon - more of a demure, modest super light shade of pink
  • First Love - closer to a clear top coat than a deep pink
  • Spitfire - glitter specs on my ring finger and pinky fingers
  • Love - on my ring fingers; more of a bubblegum, classic pink hue
  • Crazy Love - on my thumbs; a very solid color; my favorite
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Monday, October 27, 2014

Lookbook: Monochrome Mondays

On the Muse: Target fedora | Express love stripe portofino shirt | Forever 21 sparkly joggers | Payless zipper mules | Accessory Concierge Fight Like a Girl cuff #bloggersforbca

Yet another monochrome look on the Muse. Over the weekend I decided to go shopping at the mall as part of the #StyledByLumia challenge. I knew there were a few pieces I wanted to add to my fall wardrobe, so I decided to use Lumia's Cortana and OneNote to put together a mini shopping list. I used Cortana and searched for images of the 5 items I was in need of:

  • Stylish Joggers - as seen in this post (and found a second pair as well)
  • Sweaters/Cardigans - picked up one
  • Chic Mules - as seen in this post (can you believe I got these for $26 at Payless?)
  • Monochrome - stayed in the black and white combo
  • Casual Blouses - picked up three (one seen in this post)
I stored this list in Lumia's OneNote, which is a fun way to keep a shopping list because I was able to put the images of the pieces I wanted in OneNote as well. It actually made mall shopping sort of fun for me, because as you might remember, I prefer to shop online. But I felt quite accomplished to check things off my OneNote list when I found them at stores in the mall. And yes, I got a Cinnabon this time.
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Friday, October 24, 2014

Inspiring Style: The Concrete Runway

| Street Chic Skinny Jacquard Pants | Get Noticed in Navy Lace Crop Top | Quilted Petal Pencil Skirt | Red Carpet Ivory Grid Skirt | Timeless Sheer Grid Top |

I feel like I've spent the past couple of months clothed in beautiful pieces from The Concrete Runway. You've seen me wear a few items from this Miami-based company recently (birdcage, labor of love and culottes & the gang), and I can't wait to get my hands on more.

The Concrete Runway wants you to wear clothes that make you feel empowered and confident, which is pretty easy to do with their bold choices. It's so that no matter where you are, you're always walking on your own concrete runway. The three pieces that I've worn on the Muse are all items that I wouldn't normally wear because they are a bit more revealing than usual. But they are total perfection since they pushed me out of my comfort zone. And that's one of the things I love most about this brand.

These are just a few of my favorites, but there are so many other stunning options. Be sure to check out The Concrete Runway and let me know which pieces stand out to you. And remember, every day is a fashion show!
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Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Makeup and Muses: GHD Air Hair Dryer Review

Do you want to have a good hair day, every day? Well then you need to invest in the ghd AIR professional hair dryer. Usually, I don't put a lot of heat to my hair, but that's when I'm wearing it in its natural state. Right now, I've been really into curly and wavy styles for fall/winter, but I want this look without it being too frizzy. This is where the hairdryer comes in.
With these extensions in, I have no problem blow drying my hair to create the perfect look. The two concentrated nozzles and the AC motor allow the dryer to give my hair the look I want in less time than a normal dryer. My old dryer did not have nozzles, so I honestly have no idea how I lived without those all this time. The ionic technology lets my hair lock in moisture without frizzing! It took next to no time to get my hair from wet to dry, and it felt quite soft as well.
The ghd AIR has an ergonomic design for easy handling. The buttons--which include two speeds, three heat settings and a cool air shot--are located on the back of the hair dryer so it's easier for you to reach while blow drying your hair. It's a little pricey, clocking in at $225, but it's totally worth it over one that you can get for $30 at the drugstore. It will last longer (comes with a one year warranty) and will give you better results in less time. I spent a little time drying with the cool shot to create more fluff and body for my end results.
This is the big hair look that I was going for--on the left--or a bit more tame on the right. Next to this hair dryer, I just need a ceramic vented radial brush and I'll be all set. I think I'll give my old hair dryer to my Pomeranian. He loves a good cool shot. And I know...my dog now has his own hair dryer. Who am I?

Do you have this ghd AIR hairdryer--or another great hair product to share?

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by ghd, but all opinions are my own.
And the winner of the Fall Goodies Giveaway is Grace B. Congrats!
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Monday, October 20, 2014

Lookbook: Styled by Monochrome

The hubs says this look is old school Hollywood meets church lady--but what does he know! I have a confession. I'm a bit hooked on quilted material. I recently realized that I have a pair of quilted pants, a quilted jacket, and I just added these quilted sneakers to the mix. Do you think I need an intervention? Me neither--these shoes are way too hot. And they made it really easy to gallivant around town snapping photos with my Nokia Lumia 635. 

As part of the #StyledByLumia challenge, I'm sharing what goes on during a photo shoot for an outfit post for the Muse. It's usually spending time trying to figure out where to take pictures, and then finding a fun place to eat instead. This time around it was a shaved ice place in Japantown (cherry/lime with condensed milk filling). Per usual, in between photos for the blog, I take photos for Instagram, so the Nokia Lumia came in quite handy for a quick shot of my sweet treat. And afterward I can store the images in Lumia Storyteller and put together something like a mobile scrapbook. Keep up with me and my Lumia challenge by following me on social!

By the way, how cute is the cross collar on this shirt? I wanted to title this post Masterchef because of it, but then I thought the shirt seemed more like a painter's smock--but then that seemed wrong too. What the hell does this cross collar remind me of? Thoughts? Your help would be greatly appreciated.

On the Muse: | H&M skinny low jeans | Cross-over collar blouse c/o 6KS (sold out) | Nasty Gal Steve Madden quilted sneakers | H&M oversize floppy hat (in blue) | Essie wicked nail polish | Lumia 635 c/o Nokia |

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Friday, October 17, 2014

Makeup and Muses: Olay Fresh Effects Deep Pore Clean + Scrub

Just like most everyone, I go to work Monday through Friday and get up quite early to do so. Even though I would consider myself to be a morning person, it's not easy saying bye to my comfy sheets when it's still dark outside. But one great way to feel wide awake is with my morning routine.

I don't always get to bed early (thanks to Sons of Anarchy Tuesdays and Scandal Thursdays), so it can be difficult getting a full eight hours. So when eight hours just isn't possible, Olay Fresh Effects gives me the look of beauty sleep in an instant. The Olay Fresh Effects {Out Of This Swirled!} Deep Pore Clean + Exfoliating Scrub has been a part of my morning routine for a couple weeks now. The infusion of honeysuckle and white tea is like a detox recipe for your face to keep it looking refreshed all day.

The cleanser targets dirt and impurities while the scrub uses microbead ribbons to reduce the appearance of pores. All you have to do is rub it into a foamy lather and clean in circular motions (I use my Clarisonic). The main ingredient is water, which is a big deal to me, plus it's also oil free. And did I mention that it smells totally delicious? I need a perfume, candle and drink in honeysuckle white tea, stat!

The Olay Fresh Effects products are priced anywhere from $4.99 to $12.99, and you can get the {Out Of This Swirled!} Deep Pore Clean + Exfoliating Scrub for only $6.99! It also comes in a green apple and Jasmine tea version. And if you loved the Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel Moisturizer that I reviewed back in May, then you'll absolutely love this skin care product for your morning routine, school, work and everywhere else.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Olay through their partnership with POPSUGAR. I was compensated by POPSUGAR to write a post about Olay. All opinions are my own.


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Wednesday, October 15, 2014

What I'm Loving in October 2014

A couple weeks ago I watched Gone Girl, which I was super excited about because I had read the book a few years prior. So when I stumbled across these Amazing Amy illustrations, I thought they were the cutest things ever. It's a reference you'd get if you're familiar with either the book or film.

Deep burgundy tones for lipsticks are definitely on my list this season. But when it comes to your nails, I'm really diggin' gray nail colors like this Dior nail lacquer in Junon 494. I'd also love it with a matte finish too.

A month ago I was into curly hairstyles, but right now I'm feeling partial toward a more ombre wavy short hairstyle look, a la Ciara from a couple years back. Her hair game is killer! Will probably do this to my hair in November. It's funny because people are wearing this style now, but I feel like Ciara did it first. Am I wrong?

So I'm well aware that this Lady Gaga Fame eau de parfum is nothing new, but I'm really loving it this month. It's more of a fruity scent with belladonna, tiger orchid, apricot and honey. What I love most about it is the black fluid that becomes invisible when airborne, and the bottling that's too cute to pass up.

I don't really listen to the verses in Tove Lo's Habits, which might sound weird, but I only really love the chorus. I find myself singing the lyrics of the chorus over and over again at random moments throughout the day.
--#--
I was tagged by the lovely Alyson of The Beauty Vanity in this Autumn Tag so now I'm sharing it with you:

1.  OK we’re talking coffee – what’s your favorite seasonal drink?
My favorite coffee drink is a tall, nonfat, iced caramel latte. I wouldn't even call it seasonal because I order it all year. But since it's getting cooler out, I'd opt for it hot with foam, of course.
2.  Accessories – what do you opt for: scarf, boots, gloves?
Although I own both scarves and gloves, I don't tend to wear them much. But give this girl boots and a hat and I'm all set. Seriously, just wear a pair of boots and a hat--nothing else. (j/k)
3.  Music – what’s your favorite music to listen to during Autumn?
I listen to my usual playlists in the fall and in the winter too. But I do like to add a few seasonal selections once we get to November/December. A few carols here and there.
4.  Perfume – what’s your favorite scent for this time of year?
I want to go with a spicy scent since it's autumn, but I'm actually quite into Lady Gaga's Fame perfume--an oldie, but a goodie. See it above.
5.  Candles – what scents will you be burning this season?
This monogrammed votive candle from C. Wonder that I got a few months ago and I'm still loving today. I believe it's the garden scent of vanilla, musk and floral notes, 
and it's super cute that it's personalized too.
6.  What do you love most about Autumn?
I love the feeling of autumn--that whole cool breeze, sun haze, crisp air thing. I like how autumn feels snuggly and comforting.
7.  Favorite makeup look?
I'm trying to wear a lot more lipsticks in autumn, preferably dark shades like plums and burgundies. I think these colors work best for my skin tone so it's perfect that they fit so well with the season.
8.  What are you looking forward to most in Autumn?
I am looking forward to football season and holiday vacations. Even if I stay in the Bay over the holidays, I still really enjoy being able to spend time at home with friends and family.

And my Instagram Flat Lay post was featured in IFB this week:

lalam1009

Style Handbook

Do you ever feel like when you were born, everyone got the handbook to life but you? Ok, maybe not. But when it comes to style, there is no official handbook... but that doesn't mean we all have to wander around clueless. This week is your guide to style, so pull up a chair, take a deep breath and realize, everything is going to be just fine.

Links a la Mode: October 9th

SPONSOR: Shopbop Natori, Weitzman shoes, Oak, Miista, Moschino, Sachin Babi, Natori, Hare Hart, R&B Standard Issue, AQ/AQ & Electric Love Army

Want to be featured in Links à la Mode?

1. Read the clarified rules and submit your links on this page: Links à la Mode. 

Answer any of these questions & tell me what you're loving in the comments below--I tag everyone!
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Monday, October 13, 2014

Lookbook: Culottes & the Gang

Spent the weekend being productive by actually running errands. I forgot that people do that sort of thing on Saturdays. Went ahead and picked up a new fragrance and a big ass floppy hat that I was way too excited to get my hands on. You boos know how I feel about hats! Walked an entire mall too, which is odd for me as I'm not a big fan of malls (way too effin' crowded), but it did smell like Cinnabon everywhere so that was a plus. Then we hit up the 49ers/Chiefs game sitting row one. Being the big football fan that I am, I couldn't have been happier going to that game, especially since the 49ers stadium is just minutes from my house. Score.

Picked up this floral headband (even though I know they're no longer on trend) as I was trying to channel my inner Lana Del Rey. Also flaunting my confetti-style nail art and Flash Tattoos. I got a little tattoo crazy and put about six of these on. And how about this cute crop top and the bright culottes? Yeah, it's October but I can still wear styles like this because of a curious heat wave in the Bay. How's it hanging in your neck of the woods?

On the Muse: | Concrete Runway satin silver crop top | Roxy smart tailored pintuck culottes c/o Boohoo | Flash Tattoos Sheebani set | Madewell double midi ring | Incoco sweet surprise nail art | Shoedazzle Erin pumps | Lyss Loo clubmaster sunglasses c/o Shoplately | Claire's floral headband | Forever 21 satchel |

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Friday, October 10, 2014

Movie Reviews: Gone Girl

Have you seen Gone Girl yet? It's a movie starring Rosamund Pike and Ben Affleck, directed by David Fincher. It's based on the amazing book written by Gillian Flynn (she wrote the screenplay for the film too). I've mentioned it on the Muse a few times before--it's certainly one of the best books I've read in my entire life. And no, I'm not being over the top. It is truly brilliant. So I was uber excited to see the movie last week as I had great expectations. And I must say, it did not disappoint.

Gone Girl is about the marriage of Amy Elliot and Nick Dunne. They are both former writers who lived in New York, but were forced to move to Missouri because of the loss of their jobs and the deteriorating health of Nick's mother. After being married for five years, it is clear that the relationship between the couple just isn't what it used to be. Amy seems to be depressed and Nick appears to be distant.

On the morning of their 5th anniversary, Nick finds broken glass and furniture overturned. Amy is nowhere to be found. The police get involved and start to treat Amy's case as a disappearance. But as the plot unfolds and secrets are revealed, a missing Amy turns to a possibly murdered Amy--and Nick is the #1 suspect. But did this nonchalant husband kill his wife? What's really been going on between these two since they moved to Missouri? What's real and what's fake? And where the hell is amazing Amy? 

Rating: ♥
Have you seen Gone Girl--or read the book?
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Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Inspiring Style: Fall 2014 Wishlist

Now that autumn has arrived, it's time to consider your fall wardrobe. I'm not one to buy new things just because the season has changed, but this time of year does allow me to don a few pieces that haven't seen the light of day in months. I'm talking to you: sweaters and scarves. My fall wishlist includes a few items I'd like to snatch up before it's time to say bye bye to the pumpkin spice lattes--even though I don't even drink those.

Wearable Tech  
MICA by Intel and Opening Ceremony - snakeskin, semi-precious gems, touchscreen display, wireless charging and communications capabilities - not yet for sale | Hermes Medor watch - a dial display hidden behind a cabochon - looks like a bracelet so satisfies both form and function | $3k

Not Your Mother's Ankle Boots 
Report Signature Marlah bootie - a floating ankle strap with a woodgrain heel - $139 | VC Signature Velma leather bootie - a vampy cutout with a pointy toe and an ankle strap buckle closure | $140

Tweed Style Outerwear 
Rebecca Taylor boucle tweed jacket - a classic look with leather trim - $297 | T Tahari crystal jacket - a moto-inspired jacket in a tweed style with a contrast paneling | $75

Quilted Slip-Ons
Tory Burch Jessie quilted slip-on sneakers - a luxe quilted take on the popular slip-on sneakers - $165

Baubles for Breast Cancer
Accessory Concierge Fight Like a Girl cuff - a handmade brass piece with 20% of proceeds donating to breastcancerfund.org. #bloggersforbca - $32

Big Ass Hats
Free People extended brim clipperton hat - an extended version of the traditional fedora with a twisted felt band and knot detail - $58

P.S. What is all this talk about basic bitches lately? It's like, if you don't know what a basic bitch is, then you're basic. If you like to brunch, then you're basic. If you're too busy to care then you're a bad bitch. Wtf? And what if you just don't give a shit? Although I want to someday title one of my blog posts "Wear Basics, Bitch" -- I just don't get all the effort being put into this phrase. Don't let the internet fool you into thinking you are or aren't basic. Only you know full well where you stand.

What's on your fall wishlist?
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Monday, October 6, 2014

Lookbook: By Your Bootstraps

I took these photos a couple weekends ago. I didn't end up doing half the things I had originally planned to do. I blame it on being too jet-lagged from my trip. I fell asleep in the wee hours of the morning and woke up in the afternoon, which means I missed my morning window to take outfit pictures. And have you realized that it's starting to get dark early again? I swear that came out of nowhere. DST is not until November, but I think I'll have to start watching the clock sooner than ever.

These boots from SOREL are a pretty sweet addition to my fall wardrobe. They are a combination of both bold and beautiful. I feel like I can wear them with denim or with shorts. This boot style has a very comfortable fit while still feeling quite refined and modern. Definitely consider adding a pair of these or one of the company's other styles to your wish list this fall.

Right now you can also share your back to campus look with #SORELstyleContest on Twitter or Instagram and win a trip to New York for teenVOGUE's Fashion University, or one of ten $250 shopping sprees and SOREL boots. And I know you want a pair so start sharing!

On the Muse: Joan of Arctic Wedge Mid Boot c/o SOREL | American Eagle low-rise jeggings | ASOS lace insert tank | Old Navy denim jacket | Concord ombre sunglasses c/o GlassesShop.com |

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by SOREL through their partnership with POPSUGAR Select. While I was compensated to write a post about SOREL, all opinions are my own.
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Friday, October 3, 2014

Makeup and Muses: Cosmetics of the Moment


Time to bust out a few of my current beauty favorites this fall--from hair care to lip wear. Some of these brands you might recall from other makeup and muses posts, while others are new to the scene. Let me know your cosmetics of the moment and if you happen to own any of the makeup products listed here.

Orlando Pita Lift & Plump Volumizing Hair Mist - What I love most about this hair mist is that it doesn't leave your hair feeling like a sticky mess. The shine turns my drab all-day-at-work hair into a put together style with just a few sprays. Costco | $15

e.l.f. All Over Color Stick in Pink Lemonade - Hands down, you truly get your money's worth with a ton of e.l.f. products. This is my first time using the color stick, and I've only tried it once, but I plan on using it more this fall as it's a 3-in-1 that illuminates and conditions. elf | $1

Rimmel London Lipstick in Bordeaux - I do much better with lip gloss than with lipstick. But one of my goals this autumn is to embrace lip color. I'm starting with deep shades like this Rimmel London bordeaux that I've taken for a spin a few times already. Target | $5

Jenna Hipp Essential Nail & Hand Cream - Keeping my skin smooth is a must in the colder months. And my hands are no exception. This hand cream with Shea Butter nourishes and protects my nails. Costco | $20 (for set of 3) Or WIN IT in my giveaway!

100% Pure Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream - This is another brand that I've featured before and for good reason: they have unique, organic products. I use the coffee bean eye cream to rid myself of fine lines and dark circles--plus, it totally smells like coffee beans roasting in the morning. Yum. 100% Pure | $21

LiftFusion Face Lift - The face lift was gifted to me in a POPSUGAR Must Have box--as I wouldn't spend $140 on a face lift serum at my age. But since I'm slowly, but surely, getting closer to the big 3-0 every day, I figured it's good to start now so I won't need Botox later. Fusion Beauty | $140

What beauty and skin care products are you loving this fall?
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Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Inspiring Style: How-To Create the Perfect Instagram Flat Lay

Whether it's an outfit preview, a layout of your beauty favorites, or something else in a similar color palette, Instagram flat lays are one of the coolest ways to upgrade your account. Being the big fan of Instagram that I am, it seemed fitting to share a few tips with you so that you can create the perfect flat lays (follow me).

1. The Lighting
As with all great photography, lighting is key. The best lighting is always natural light that you find outside. If you're lucky enough to get a lot of natural light from indoors, then that's perfect, or you can try an overhead white light. I like to take my flat lays on my front porch around twilight hour. Forget using flash on your phone (although flash on a DSLR might work on occasion).

2. The Backdrop
All you have to remember when it comes to the backdrop is to keep it simple. This way, all of the focus is on the item(s) you're trying to highlight. Do this by using one of these three backgrounds: white cardboard, fluffy white throw or dark wood floors.
3. The Layout
This is where things can get a bit challenging. You have your background and the lighting is right, but now it's time for the meat and the potatoes: the actual items. Be sure that you space out each piece so that nothing touches (some exceptions). A good way to accomplish this is by being meticulous about the amount of products in your flat lay. Stick with anywhere from three to six pieces, preferably in the same color palette.
4. The Items
It's your Instagram so feel free to deck it out with whatever items that suit you. But I find that there are a few items that tend to work really well for flat lays: clothing like tops and shoes; magazines with laptops; food and coffee; makeup and jewelry; flowers and perfume.
5. The Apps
Last, but not least, don't be afraid to use a photo editing app to get rid of any weird shadows or to add a touch of brightness. You can stick to the filters on Instagram or get a little fancy. Just decide if you want an Instagram that is more colorful, or with more pastel hues, or simply monochrome. Try Camera360, Afterlight, Snapseed and Square InstaPic.
Do you have any Instagram flat lays tips? Share in the comments.
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