Atlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] style

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

July 4th Picks

Here are a few of my favorite 4th of July picks. If you have multiple piercings, then I think these Charming Charlie star studs would be perfect for you. And everything is suitable for a pretty laid back look if that's what you're going for this weekend. But I seriously have my eye on that ASOS off shoulder dress -- and the price is fantastic! Everything is under $140 with most being under $50! Which item is your favorite and how are you spending your July 4th weekend?

| Show Me Your MuMu - Starry Eyed Olympia Romper | ShopStyle - CHRLDR Tres Bien | Macy's - Vera Bradley Wristlet | Dillard's - Sperry Seacoast Isle Sneakers | Charming Charlie - American Star Earrings Set | ASOS - Fashion Union Off Shoulder Dress | Boohoo - Amber Striped Runner Shorts |
SHARE:

Monday, June 27, 2016

Pom Wonderful

This past weekend I had delusions of grandeur. I had intentions to take a ton of outfit photos on Saturday...and then I got hungry. No, scratch that -- and then I got hangry. So there was a change of plans, but not before I was able to get this look together. I mean, I spent way-too-long putting on these false lashes, and I wasn't going to let that go to waste. Plus, how cute is the pom trim on this romper -- and the tassel details on the necklace and bag?

But yeah, I also saw a fab movie, ate some carbs, watched some beach volleyball, did a little hike, hung out on a boat, and saw the GoT finale. So tell me, how did your weekend go?

On the Muse: | Forever 21 tie-front pom-trim romper | Gladiator sandals (fringe version) | Fringe longline necklace (under $10) | High shine cutout choker (under $10) | Forever 21 faux leather tassel crossbody |

And today is the Monday Mingle Linkup that I host with Momtrends and Take Time for Style! The linkup is hosted at Take Time for Style today, so go add your post!
SHARE:

Thursday, June 23, 2016

What Did You Think of That Book?

You guys know by now that Oh to Be a Muse is not just a fashion blog. If I only wrote about fashion on here then I probably would have stopped blogging years ago -- because that's boring. And you probably also know that I'm a big fan of movies and books. A few people have asked me on Instagram "what did you think of that book?" -- So read below to finally see my answers!

This is probably the shortest book you'll ever read. I think it's about 60 pages and I read it in an hour or less. This Google description doesn't give it justice because it's way more mysterious and features a "scary child" element that would make for a great movie thriller. ♥♥♥


This book was so much better than expected because it sets you down one path and then in the middle of everything, starts an entirely new path. Oh, and it features a super strong female lead as well with an extremely intriguing back story that gives an explanation to this "chance encounter" on a plane. One of my favorite reads of 2016 so far. ♥♥♥♥

The island setting adds another level of mystery in a very Agatha Christie sort of way. It's a whodunit that's constantly changing your opinion of the protagonist. It also made me realize that everyone in the UK drives a Range Rover and that's the truth that I experienced too when I visited London a month ago. ♥♥♥

I think this is the only book on this reading list that actually has a sole male lead. I love how the plot is telling two stories at the same time and how the clues of the present event relate to the past crime. Unfortunately, I felt like questions were left unanswered...♥♥♥


A lot of people really wanted to know what I thought of this read. It seemed very well received, and although I enjoyed it, I was a bit underwhelmed. I think it's because it takes so much from the Gone Girl idea without much of the Gone Girl benefits. Maybe I would have liked it better if I had read it first. ♥♥

I've noticed that a lot of people are now reading this novel and I think that's great because it was better than I thought it would be. Definitely comes with a payoff (that I might have seen coming, but still good) so don't forget to read that epilogue! ♥♥♥♥
SHARE:

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

June Buys: Blazers & Shorts

What? Is it too hot for blazers? Well, according to the editors at InStyle (specifically, the July 2016 issue with Jessica Alba on the cover), the month of June is the best time to purchase blazers and shorts. Just remember that you can purchase a discounted blazer now for half the price and then wear it in fall and winter.

FYI: each piece here is under $150 and some are even under $25!
| one | two | three | four | five | six |
Discounts on these two items average 46% off since retailers are cutting the prices of all spring favorites this time of year. So here are a few of my picks for the best blazers and shorts to buy before the month ends! My favorite blazer pick here is #6 and for shorts, I love #4!
| one | two | three | four | five |
SHARE:

Monday, June 20, 2016

Women Warriors

A few months ago I picked up this New York & Company maxi wrap skirt (remember it on Snapchat?) and just the other day I realized that I needed the matching top. You really can't go wrong with a floral two-piece set in the summer. And clearly, I just can't get enough of a high slit look these days. Together, the set is under $55 but you could easily buy one or the other.

And did you catch this fab cuff set by Stella Valle that I'm wearing? It's part of their Women Warriors Armed With Inspiration collection. It's all about pieces that encourage and tell a personal and aspiring story. #MUSE is my mantra because a muse is someone who inspires and that was the main reason for starting this little page on the Internet so many years ago.

So tell me -- what do you think of this two-piece set? Does it bring out your inner woman warrior? And if you could design your own armed with inspiration cuff set, what would it say?
On the Muse: | 7th Avenue Design Studio floral halter blouse c/o NY&C | 7th Avenue Design Studio floral maxi wrap skirt c/o NY&C | Stella Valle Women Warriors Armed With Inspiration #MUSE cuff c/o (shop the letters) | Iris mirrored sunglasses c/o EdgeiWear |

And today is the Monday Mingle Linkup that I host with Momtrends and Take Time for Style! The linkup is hosted at Momtrends today, so go add your post!
Happy official first day of summer!
SHARE:

Friday, June 17, 2016

Vital Proteins: Beauty From Within

This week I decided to really step up my health and wellness game. I made a change with my workout, my eating habits and my supplements. Don't get me wrong -- I've been very proactive about what I put in my body and sticking to a gym schedule since the start of February. But I had plateaued. I had made great strides but hadn't seen any new results since the middle of May.

So this week I made a change. I started a different workout routine (I go to the gym six days a week). I've cut out processed carbs as well. If you know anything about me, then you know that carbs are my homeboy. But I didn't think it was going to be possible for me to see a change in my body without getting rid of them during the week (I treat myself on the weekends).

And I've been taking a multivitamin since the beginning of 2016, but I recently added a hair, skin and nails vitamin along with something great that I discovered called Vital Proteins. Vital Proteins is a company that makes drinkable collagen formulas that are made from sustainably sourced ingredients. I have both the Marine Collagen and the Collagen Beauty Greens.
The Marine Collagen is non-GMO, gluten free, Whole-30 approved and tasteless. It is also packed with 11g of protein, 0 carbs and 45 calories per serving. The Collagen Beauty Greens contains raw organic greens, probiotics and hyaluronic acid. It's an excellent source of Vitamin A and a perfect addition to a green juice. But you can really add either of these into your smoothie, coffee, tea or even your baked goods! I add them to my daily protein shakes.

The collagen protein found in these formulas aid with your health and wellness from within. They prevent the onset signs of aging (which means I'll look like I'm 17 for the rest of my life); they improve digestion, which in turn, improves skin issues like eczema (which I have) and acne; and they strengthen hair and nails. So all of this improves you from the inside out.

Come take a look at my weekly fitness and eating routine. This is based off inspiration from this, but has been revised slightly to suit my personal needs. I eat whatever I want on the weekends.
Breakfast

  • One egg (or egg whites) and two slices of bacon
  • Nonfat caramel latte
After Workout Meal
  • Protein Shake: Vital Proteins, Whey Protein, Unsweetened Almond Milk, Ice, Chia Seeds (sometimes includes kale, 1/2 banana and 1/2 avocado) -- blended
Lunch
  • Nutty Cranberry Salad - organic spring mix, cranberries, feta cheese, walnuts, almonds
  • OR: Spinach Pow Salad - organic baby spinach, grilled chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, almonds, cranberries
Dinner
  • 4oz Shredded Chicken Breast
Snack Options
  • Beef Jerky
  • Fiber One Bars
  • Balanced Breaks
  • Chobani Greek Yogurt
  • Halo Top Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Drinks
  • 90% water; 10% Kombucha Gingerade

Sunday + Tuesday + Thursday
  • Treadmill - 3.5mph max incline uphill - 15 minutes
  • Stairmaster - Level 5 - 5 minutes
  • Row Machine - 10 minutes
Monday
  • Leg Press - 100lbs, 3x10
  • Walking Lunges - 15lbs dumbbells each hand, 4x10
  • Leg Curls - 50lbs, 3x10
  • Leg Extensions - 50lbs, 3x10
  • Adductor Machine - 70lbs, 3x10
  • Abductor Machine - 70lbs, 3x10
Wednesday
  • Bicep Dumbbell Curls - 15lbs, 3x10
  • Tricep Extensions - 20lbs, 3x10
  • Standing Military Press with Barbell & Weights - 35lbs, 3x10
  • Upper Back Machine - 40lbs, 3x10
  • Lat Machine - 60lbs, 3x10
Friday
  • Back Extension with Ball - 12lbs, 3x10
  • Side Bends with Weight - 20lbs, 4x10
  • Russian Twists with Weight - 20lbs, 4x10
  • Single Leg Raises - 3x20
I don't workout on Saturdays. I'd love to know if you've tried Vital Proteins before and what your workout and diet routine looks like -- so go ahead and share in the comments!
SHARE:

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

What I'm Loving June 2016

So the tassel crossbody bag isn't anything new, but I've been into them this month because I find myself gravitating more toward crossbody bags in general. And a little tassel design is a fun addition, especially now in the summer months. Check out some of my favorites below!
Forever 21 tassel bag | Target nubuck tassel | Sole Society tassel canvas

I've been a big fan of the show Veep since it started, but I don't ever really hear people talk about this great piece of entertainment. So now that season 5 is up and running, I just want to share this well-written and superbly funny show with you muses. It's a little crass, but most of the humor is so smart and the entire ensemble cast kills! Take a look at my Veep: Shag, Marry, Kill for more insight! The show airs on HBO 30 minutes after Game of Thrones ends.

Much like off-shoulder tops and dresses, I'm sure you've seen your fair share of embroidered sun hats these days. They are seriously the best accessory for the summer because they're both fashionable and functional! Keep yourself shielded from the hot sun while making a statement!
Etsy Out of Office | Kate Spade NY Lovely | BP Come Sail Away | Eugenia Kim Do Not Disturb | Basic B Tees Yes Way, Vacay

Have you heard of Stella Valle? Well, you must peruse their site because you're sure to be amazed by the complex simplicity of their jewelry. All the pieces are very minimal, but also created with unique geometric shapes and unusual designs. I'm really loving their under $100 Armed With Inspiration cuffs that incorporate symbols, all initials and motivational quotes!
M initial cuff | U initial cuff | B initial cuff | C initial cuff

Usually I have a thing for singers with raspy tones (think Pink and Janis Joplin), but truly I just love anyone with a solid voice, and Ruth B is right at the top of that list. Her voice is like butta. Have you heard her song Lost Boy that's climbing up the charts? It's such a stark difference from all the other songs on the radio right now, and I love that about it. The video rocks, too. Oh, and Rihanna's Needed Me is also on my radar at the moment. Heard either of these songs?

Braided styles are my go-to for summer because they protect my natural hair and they can last for a good while. That's why I'm really into Havana twist hairstyles right now because they offer a fun change for the summer. Plus I can keep them short enough to stay cool but long enough for a topknot! Have any of you tried Havana twists before? What did you think of them?

Oh, and have you checked out the new COVERGIRL Katy Kat Matte line at Walmart?
SHARE:

Monday, June 13, 2016

Poppin' My Collar

Summer is upon us! I'm so happy right now because I really, really love warm weather. It means long days, outdoor adventures and easy, breezy clothing. That's why you have to check out the new summer maxi dresses and jumpsuits that just arrived at New York & Company! They are the perfect combination of effortless and chic.

My entire look today is New York & Company. Don't you just love when you can shop one destination for a head-to-toe look? The sandals, belt, tote, sunnies and dress are all summer ready. And you can't go wrong with the super fun t-strap halter back on this lined shirtdress and the classic popped collar. This is the type of dress that I know I'll wear all summer long.
On the Muse: | New York & Company Bar-Back Shirtdress c/o | New York & Company Tassel-Trim Obi Belt c/o | New York & Company Lace-Up Sandals c/o | New York & Company Sequin Fruit Tote c/o | New York & Company Brow Bar Sunglasses c/o (similar) |

| Hearts of Gold necklace c/o Honeybee Boutique | Mindy necklace c/o Honeybee Boutique | NOTE: Honeybee Boutique is offering my readers a $10 gift code to shop their site valid from June 19 to July 2! Use code CHERYL10 to get your shop on!

Are you shopping New York & Company this summer? You totally need to! They have amazing maxis, dresses, rompers, jumpsuits and more! They even have a petite collection, which is perfect for this 5' 2" girl.

You'll also want to get your hands on the Eva Mendes collection and both the Gypset and Lemonade trends! Even though you can't see it here, I'm also wearing the New York & Company Walk in the Park fragrance (do you remember seeing it on Snap?). The bottling alone is to die for and the scent is fantastic! And check out my New York & Company Mother's Day look as well!
_________________NEW YORK & COMPANY CONTEST_________________
New York & Company is having a contest that ends June 27! To enter, take a pic wearing your favorite NY&C outfit and share your look on Instagram using #ReadySetSummerContest for your chance to win a $5,000 shopping spree! Plus, you could win a daily $50 gift card and be featured in the NY&C emails to be seen by millions. Note: Muse be 18 or older to enter and live in the U.S. Visit nyandcompany.com/nyco/ReadySetSummerContest for more sweeps details.
Disclosure: This post was supported by Shopping Links


_________________MONDAY MINGLE LINKUP_________________
I'm hosting the Monday Mingle Linkup today! Be sure to check out my linkup partners BonBon Rose Girls and Momtrends to see what they're styling. And add your fashionable post below!

SHARE:

Friday, June 10, 2016

Insta Lately: June 2016

Just a quick little Insta update for you muses, in case any of you still aren't following me over on Instagram. The last time I did this was back in April after traveling to Las Vegas and Antelope Canyon, so it made sense to share again since I did a little more traveling recently. Are we following each other? Keep up with me on Insta and Snapchat where you'll find all the fun!

// Under My Um-ba-rella //
This is an installation located in the Southgate area in Bath, England. They just decided that they wanted to add something cool to an already cool place.
// The Cover of a Rolling Stone //
Can't believe it took me three trips to England to visit Stonehenge! No one really knows how the stones got there or why, but everyone sees that the place is stunning.
// Never Met a Colorful Street I Didn't Like //
Whenever you travel to some place new, look up the best neighborhoods for beautiful imagery. This is Bywater Street in Chelsea, which is a lovely place in London.
// Summer Swimming //
Remember this Kingdom & State post from last week? Well, this is mix and match peplum set is my go-to summer swimsuit! What do you think?
Clearly, I love all kinds of jewelry, but at the moment, I really have this thing for marble! Thanks to Emanco, I was able to wear all the best pieces. Do you like?
At the end of May I took a little trip to Atlanta, then to Ft. Lauderdale, then to London. So yes, I was definitely in vacation mode, and this sun hat by Basic B Tees was perfect.
I'm sure you've all seen the Love, Style, Life book that pretty much every fashionista is reading. Well, I don't have the book but I do have this fab shirt by 360 It Girl that you'll love.
As always, I'm loving all my Rocksbox baubles. These are some of my most recent pieces. Get your first month free with code cherylbff59 on the Rocksbox site.
I don't eat salad nearly as much as I should, but fortunately I was able to try the Elevate Salads and they are fantastic. The nutty cranberry version is my fave.
Spring (and now summer) is here so you know what that means? It is peonies season. My only wish is that they lasted longer. And that's the book I read back in May.
Have you heard of Case Cavern? Well they have the cutest phone cases for both Samsung and iPhone. This palm tree one was an obvious choice for me!
// Derby Day //
I don't live in the south so I didn't have any intention of going to the Kentucky Derby. But I did want to participate with these lovely Derby inspired nail polishes at Tar-jay.
A little bit ago I went to a BossNotes event at Coach and Westfield Valley Fair and received this beautiful monogrammed luggage tag with my initials. Used on my recent trip to London.
Took a day trip to Sausalito (right next to San Francisco) and noticed that there is a boat house that is a replica (on a very small scale) of the Taj Mahal. How unique!
A lovely shot at Jack London Square in Oakland. Can you believe some random person commented on this pic stating how much they hate Oakland. How could you hate this scenery?
// Mr. & Mrs. //
These lovely pillow cases that one of my friend's gave me as a housewarming gift. She's the best. I'm not sure everyone realized these were pillow cases.
SHARE:
Blogger Template Created by pipdig