Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Friday, February 27, 2015

Musings of a Muse: Links I'm Loving Lately

  • If you read my post from Monday, then you know that Spring Is Coming. So take a look at this spring fashion trends post by Upbeat Soles, especially the bare shoulders.
  • Each of us has our own blogger family -- the blogs we visit often; the bloggers we've met in person -- and even the bloggers we haven't met, but think we know. More Pieces of Me showcases this in a post all about the correct pronunciation of her name.
  • We female fashion bloggers share a lot of stylish looks on our blogs, but we all know that there's so much more to a good look than just clothing. It's also about that other C-word: confidence. So I loved how BonBon Rose Girls shared this post on how to inspire confidence in your daughter on MomTrends.
  • Typically, I don't care too much about NYFW and red carpet looks, but I did enjoy the colors from the J. Crew Fall 2015 looks that Rolala Loves shared.
  • AKA Bailey's fun color-block mani brought me in, but it was her cute coffee cup ring that made me stay.
  • OMG, #TheDress has taken over the internet! Check out this post by The Good Stuff that shows you why you can see the dress as either #whiteandbrown or #blackandblue -- but we should all agree that it's an ugly dress and move on with our lives by Monday, k?
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Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Inspiring Style: February Favorites

In honor of it being my birthday month -- and because this is the shortest month of the year -- here are some of my February Favorites from my Instagram. Are you following me? If not, be sure to start following me now to stay up to date when I'm not blogging, and leave your Instagram handle in the comments too! @ohtobeamuse

My Outfits

My Affirmations


Florals + Flat Lays

What's going on in your life right now? And if you're on Instagram, be sure to leave your handle in the comments! I'm @ohtobeamuse and you'll be sure to find me there whenever I'm not posting here.

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Monday, February 23, 2015

Lookbook: Spring Is Coming

It's not even my birthday -- Well, actually, it is! On this exact day, 29 years ago, I was born in the city of Kingston on a small island known as Jamaica. There is nothing super special about being 29 other than it's the last year in your 20s before you hit the big 3-0. And, unlike most people, I am totally cool with being 30 next year. I'm one of the youngest among most of my friends, and strangers always mistake me for being between the ages of 17-24, so I'm totally cool with #29SoFine, and super ready for #TheDirty30 in a year's time.

This past weekend, a few of us hit up an Izakaya restaurant and then a bar for some drinks in San Francisco to celebrate. I'm also following the treat yo-self motto and taking today off because a vacation from doing stuff is the best birthday gift anyone could ever ask for. Enjoy the last week of my birthday month...spring is coming.

On the Muse: | Zara asymmetrical skirt jacquard dress | Zara pleated court shoes | Foster Grant belmont sunglasses | Forever 21 mini satchel | House of Harlow 1960 crescent cuff | ShopLately hearts bracelet |

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Friday, February 20, 2015

Makeup and Muses: Nail Tape Mani

Initially, my plan for this design was to create a negative space manicure similar to this one that I absolutely adore, but sadly, that didn't happen. I was hoping to use nail tape to create the negative space, but that's easier said than done. But, I still had nail tape lying around so I opted for a simple nail tape manicure instead.

First of all, nail tape is a bit of a bitch to work with. It's not easy finding where it starts after you've set the reel down for a while. Also, if you don't apply it completely straight, then it will look like a total mess when you remove it (hence, why this is no longer a negative space mani post). But, I was able to get a lot of colors for chump change, so at least I can try, try again until I 100% succeed. But it does look like a Tiffany & Co. box.

Basic Steps

  1. Apply Sally Hansen nail thickener as base coat (let fully dry)
  2. Apply 2 coats of Sally Hansen miracle gel in B Girl (let fully dry -- for real)
  3. Add strips of nail tape in the color of your choice, and in the design of your choice
    1. I decided to double up on the tape so that it looked bolder
    2. Also, I stuck with horizontal lines since this was my first time using nail tape
  4. When applying the tape, you can follow the simple rule of "measure twice, cut once" or you can choose to wrap the tape around and then cut afterward
  5. Apply Milani color statement top coat 
For this, I used Sally Hansen nail thickener, Sally Hansen miracle gel in B Girl, nail tape that I found on Amazon, and Milani color statement top coat. You can remove strips of the nail tape just by pulling it off, or you can choose to cut off strips with scissors. See more nail designs I love on Pinterest!

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Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Makeup and Muses: Beauty & Skin Care Overhaul

Last month I did a flatlay featuring some of my skin care and beauty products that I use on a regular basis. I asked your opinion of what I should add or remove from my regimen and got a ton of great responses.

This, in turn, influenced me to basically get rid of a majority of the products I had lying around my bathroom (seriously, so much product). I then went and picked up a few things to add to my beauty arsenal. The majority of these items are drugstore so they're really easy for you to pick up. Also, it might seem like a lot, but it really isn't. My skin care takes about 5 minutes and makeup takes about 10. So here is what I'm working with in both my skin care and makeup routine:

Skin Care Products I Use


  • Cetaphil Daily Face Cleanser
  • Clarisonic Mia2 Deep Pore Detoxifying Collection
  • Neutrogena Acne Stress Control Triple Action Toner
  • Ambi Skincare Fade Cream - Normal Skin
  • Daytime: Olay Fresh Effects Hydrating Gel Moisturizer
  • Nighttime: Obiqo Restoring Night Cream
  • Eucerin Daily Protection Moisturizing Face Lotion
  • Clarisonic Detoxifying Clay Mask (twice weekly)

Beauty Products I Use

  • Elf Mineral Infused Face Primer
  • Elf Studio Brush Set
  • Elf Tone Correcting Concealer
  • Maybelline Fit Me Shine Free Foundation Stick
  • Lumiere Mineral Blush
  • NYC Automatic Eyebrow & Eyeliner Pencils
  • Elf 3-in-1 Mascara
  • Elf Studio Translucent Matifying Powder
  • Maybelline Superstay Lipstick
  • Elf Makeup Mist & Set Spray

Want to add this Pulsaderm LED light and this Japonesque solid brush cleanser to my toolkit as well.

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Monday, February 16, 2015

Lookbook: Heartbeats

On the Muse: | The Mint Julep Boutique Elizabeth coat | Express portofino shirt | ShopLately so in love scarf | Gap 1969 destructed skimmer polka dot jeans | Forever 21 sandals |

My long weekend (that I'm still enjoying) was spent with a staycation in San Francisco. Sorry for such a super casual outfit, but I had long, busy days and late nights. The only reason I'm wearing these sunglasses is because I had tired eyes. When I wasn't spending my time with people in the city, I was watching movies (Kingsman: The Secret Service -- which is really good, by the way); drinking habanero and ginger ciders; and driving down the coast listening to the Serial podcast. Do you listen? It's intense.

Hope you all had a fantastic Valentine's Day/Presidents' Day weekend...now I'm off to bed to sleep in.
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Friday, February 13, 2015

Movie Reviews: Jupiter Ascending

Over the weekend I saw Jupiter Ascending in which I've been wanting to see for what seems like forever. I think this movie was supposed to be released last year, but there was some weird conflict that pushed it back. Needless to say, I was excited for some Channing and Mila.

The Good
This is a visually stunning film. And if you're into action movies (not sure why you'd watch this if you weren't), then you'll be satisfied. The action is pretty much nonstop. Channing Tatum's character is the star of just about every action scene. And if you've always imagined a future where skating on air was a legit thing, then you and your love for Back to the Future will enjoy the cool effects. And if you like pretty dresses and headpieces, it doesn't disappoint in that category either. The movie wins when it comes to action and costumes.
The Bad
Uhm, why didn't the director get better use out of Mila Kunis? I mean, she's wonderful, and I feel like this movie made her seem quite B-reel. She only opened her mouth to say silly lines and she didn't really partake in any of the action -- in an action movie where she plays the title character. Say what, now? Why did Channing get to have all the fun and Mila just got to play a girl with a crush?

The Ugly
Nothing is downright ugly about this movie, as I actually did enjoy watching it. But I was hoping that I would leave the theater wanting to watch a sequel. I wanted to start making up story lines in my head about what happened next. But sigh, that wasn't the case. It just turned out to be more fluff than fire, and could probably take a few pointers from Guardians of the Galaxy. And someone should tell the writers to make better use out of an actor like Eddie Redmayne next time. The man just won the Best Actor Golden Globe for playing Stephen Hawking for crying out loud!

Anyway, I digress. I'm still going to watch this movie again when I eventually see it on Netflix. Overall, I wouldn't really say that Jupiter ascended or descended -- she just kind of stood there.

Rating: ♥

Happy Friday the 13th! And enjoy your long Valentine's Day weekend as well.

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Wednesday, February 11, 2015

What I'm Loving in February 2015

Rocksbox - The Valentine's Day Sets from Rocksbox are super cute for all jewelry lovers. You can pick among four sets: the heartbreaker, the bombshell, the femme fatale and the sweetheart. I, of course, am a heartbreaker (with a little bit of bombshell). The heartbreaker set includes pieces from House of Harlow 1960, Gorjana and SLATE.

My 29th Birthday - #29SoFine as I'm turning one year closer to the big 3-0. Feel free to wish me a happy birthday on Feb. 23 via social media.

Valentine's Day Crafts - With a combination of it being Valentine's Day soon and my infatuation with home decor lately, I've been really into crafts and DIYs. How adorable is this hearts tree branch vase? Even the hubs thought so.

Chai Tea - In January I decided to cut back on my coffee intake. I was having about three cups a week, which either sounds like a lot or a little, depending on who is reading this post. Now, I stick to one cup a week and just drink tea at other times. This chai organic black tea is my current favorite.

The Walking Dead - Holy Michonne! The mid-season premiere of The Walking Dead returned Feb. 8. I'm really happy that it's back as I think this season is pretty awesome, and can only be rivaled by season one. This should sustain me until GoT in April.

Pulsaderm LED Blue - Heard about the Pulsaderm LED Blue and it sounds super interesting. I haven't yet tried it, but I'm really looking forward to any non-invasive acne treatment. Or you can get the red one that's great for aging and sun damage.

Negative Space Manicures - If you follow me on Pinterest then you know I've pinned a few negative space manicures. So I finally decided to go to the salon and actually get this gel done. Next up -- fun with nail tape!

Kayla Itsines Workout - Someone mentioned the Kayla Itsines full body workouts on my Facebook feed, so I downloaded them and wow -- they are intense! Definitely a workout that you'll feel in your core. The best part is you can do it at home in as little as 28 minutes.

Tove Lo - Back in October, I was diggin' her song Habits and now I can't stop singing her latest single, Talking Body. She reminds me of Kesha, post $...maybe.

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Monday, February 9, 2015

Lookbook: Side Shaves, Sweaters & Skirts

Much like my recent home decor style, my fashion sense is starting to live in a very specific color range: whites, blacks, grays and beige. And you know what? I ain't mad at it. I'm looking forward to this weekend because I look forward to every three-day weekend. Plus, Valentine's Day and my birthday are coming up, so it's a great opportunity to take advantage of the extra time. Maybe we'll finally explore a bit more of the bay area.

I must say, I don't wear skirts often, but I do enjoy the way this outfit turned out. Sweater and skirt style for the win. And I recently threw out a bunch of my makeup in exchange for new essentials. Definitely liking the new products. Can I just say that my face is beat! Kudos to me for figuring this out even though I wasn't blessed with much in the way of eyebrows or a cupid's bow, for that matter. I'm still really mad about not having one.

Oh, and do you like my whole side hair thing? Since I'm in no way about to shave the side of my head, I just pinned it back to create this faux side-shave look. Do ya dig? Ever since I saw Rosario Dawson rock it in Top Five, I've been seeing it around a lot on many people (from IGers to Rihanna and Demi Lovato). But I think Cassie originated this hairstyle a few years ago--but now it's on trend.

On the Muse: | H&M knit sweater (similar) | Altuzarra for Target ponte flounce skirt | Jessica Simpson Cecerre heels | H&M rhinestone necklace | Forever 21 mini satchel |

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Friday, February 6, 2015

Inspiring Style: Valentine's Gift Guide for Her

| Sugarpova Mini Pova Pack {$8} | Anjolee Tennis Bracelets {$3k} | Duo Boots Smoking Slippers {$80} | Interlocking Hearts Mug {$15} | How to Be Parisian Wherever You Are {$17} | Milk & Honey Hand Stamped Spoons {$30} | Daniel Wellington Classy Winchester Watch {$135} |

Just a sweet, little Valentine's Day gift guide for her. Most of the items are pretty reasonably priced, but I did add in something fancy from Anjolee. If you're into customizable jewelry then you have to convince your sweetie to get you one of their tennis bracelets. Otherwise, you can always nab any of the other items in this gift guide.

If you liked my DUO shoes then you'll love the cheetah print versions, especially if you're reading this Parisian book that I've been seeing all over. And I had to throw in a little Han Solo and Princess Leia cuteness that I know all my Star Wars fans will love. But they're seriously perfect for anyone into cute shit.

And this Valentine's Day Magazine created by The Good Stuff and Coupons.com is filled with aphrodisiac recipes, tips to re-creating romantic movie ideas, printables, and how to throw a Galentine's Brunch! Just click it!
valentines-magazine-cover
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Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Inspiring Style: Home Office Decor

I decided to add one more room in my home decor edition after I realized I had left out one of my favorite rooms in the house. Surprise, surprise. Another room decor post completely filled with white furniture and accents. If you haven't figured it out by now, I'm totally in love with monochrome when it comes to home decor (and fashion). Also, I want to keep things simple without clutter, so all I really need are a few chic pieces with creative desk accents. The easiest way to amp up your home office without making it too busy is with a fun bookend, lamp or mug (or all three, in this case).


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Monday, February 2, 2015

Lookbook: Paris Is Always a Good Idea

You know when you put on some stripes, smoking slippers and a felt hat and you're like, "yeah, I could be Parisian." The only thing I'm missing is a red neckerchief. Can't get enough of this boat-neck top though. I want to wear it every day, especially with those gold details on the sleeves and shoulder. This past weekend I went to game night with a bunch of friends up in east bay. Also, I watched the Super Bowl even though it didn't involve any of my teams. Other than that, nothing too crazy.

I'm wearing a few awesome pieces in today's look. These malin smoking slippers from DUO are so boss. I've been wearing them nonstop. They also come in black, berry, pastel blue and *gasp* cheetah calf hair! Also in love with this layered rectangle necklace from Urban Peach Boutique. I wore a chevron necklace by them last week, and I knew that as soon as I saw this one that it had to be mine. Plus you can get 40% off all sale items at Urban Peach this week!

Last, but certainly not least, is this warm and cozy Elizabeth coat from The Mint Julep. It's snuggly. It's long. It's blue. And it could be yours. I've teamed up with The Mint Julep Boutique to give one lucky muse a chance to win a $25 gift card to shop the mint! Just enter below.

On the Muse: | Malin slipper pumps in navy c/o DUO | H&M boat-neck topLayered Rectangle necklace c/o Urban Peach | H&M twill pantsElizabeth coat c/o The Mint Julep Boutique | H&M wool hat | Zara drawstring bucket bag |

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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