Thursday, July 31, 2014

YouTube Video: July Favorites

Hey guys! Today I'd like to share with you my first ever, very awkward YouTube video. Its totally noticeable how nervous I was at the beginning but, I start to loosen up...eventually! I'm not gonna lie... this was so hard to film! Phones rang, car alarms went off, trains passed by, oh, and neighbors stared through the window. You have no idea how much more respect I have for YouTubers after this experience. But, at the same time this could not have been more exciting!!!

My goal is to have my Blog & YouTube channel compliment one another. So, things you see here will be different from what you see there...unless requested otherwise. I've been pretty good with posting here once a week (Tuesdays) & would like to do the same for the channel (probably Thursdays).

So, here is my July Favorites video: (click here for direct link)




Don't forget to Subscribe & Like if you enjoyed!


Thank you for stopping by!


Until next time!






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Tuesday, July 29, 2014

OOTD: Smock-Frock

Hey guys!!! Today's OOTD is a super effortless & very comfortable look. As of late I've picked up quite a couple of smock dresses... I guess I gravitate towards this particular style because they're loose fitting but, aren't shapeless. They're a great way to look cute, while staying comfy & casual.



Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)



Dress: ASOS (currently on sale!)

Shoes: ASOS (currently on sale!)

Bracelets: NiTa




The bracelets featured in this OOTD are part of NiTa's "Ex-Mermaid Collection". The second I saw them on Instagram I just knew I had to have them. You get good quality, stunning, unique pieces for a great price. A total must have!!! Make sure to follow them on Instagram & on Facebook for updates on new designs. 

I also wanted to quickly mention that this dress is real denim, which means...the color bleeds...like a lot! So for those first couple of washes keep it away from all of your light colored clothes. And for extra precaution, try not to pair it with a light colored purse either. I personally haven't had it stain any of my clothes or accessories but, I'd hate for it to happen to someone else!

I've included link to all of the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!










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Tuesday, July 22, 2014

DIY: Floral Shadow Box

As some of you may know, I recently moved to Atlanta, which means: new room to decorate!!! I've managed to get all the essentials and some decorations here and there, yet I couldn't help but feel like there was something missing. Then it hit me... ART! There was just too much empty space on my walls. And so the search for the perfect piece began. I managed to come-up empty handed every time. For the most part the inexpensive pieces weren't my style and the ones I loved are way too expensive.

So, since I couldn't find an ideal art piece for my room, I decided to make my own!

I thought it would be nice to share with you this super simple project that anyone can do! Really, it's only 3 steps!

You'll need:

  • Back loading shadow box 
  • Artificial/Silk flowers (make sure you have enough to fill your box)
  • Wire cutter or scissors (depends on choice of flower)
  • Windex or any glass cleaner


Step One: Remove all contents in the shadow box (pins, paper, instructions, etc.) & clean the inside glass with Windex or any other glass cleaner.

Step Two: Remove flowers from stems (some pop right off, but if they don't, cut them with a wire cutter or a scissor if there is no wire) & start arranging them however you desire. 
  • I chose to remove the individual petals because I didn't like the look of the entire Hydrangea smooched up against the glass. But, like I stated before it all depends on your choice of flower!
  • If you're using individual petals, keep piling them up. You want to create pressure once you close your box so nothing will shift or move.


Step Three: Secure the back of the shadow box into place.

And you're done!!! All that's left is to hang it up.


I had lots of fun with this project & I love how simple it is to put together. Hopefully this has inspired you to take on a DIY project of your own! 

Everything I used was purchased at Michael's Craft Store but, you can probably find these supplies at Marshalls, Target & Wal-Mart or similar stores.  

If you've found this post helpful in any way, shape or form feel free to share it on your favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!




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Tuesday, July 15, 2014

OOTD: White Out

As part of my venture to step out of my comfort zone, I've rediscovered the color white. I say "rediscover" because it's not a color I gravitate towards, actually... I avoid it. A long time ago I declared white pants as my worst enemy. I always found them to be so unflattering on my full-figure body. They drew attention to the features I was most uncomfortable with (my butt & thighs). But, I've decided to wave a white flag and give them a second chance. So, to really test my new found confidence & style limits I put together a mostly white on white outfit with a hint of color!


Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)



Top: ASOS

Jeans: Torrid

Shoes: Nine West

Earrings: Tous

Watch: Michael Kors 

Sunglasses: TUMI 




It was so much fun to finally wear this top! When I purchased it I didn't anticipate the peplum hem would be so sheer...but I rocked it anyways!!! I also wanted mention that the blue pattern is more muted in real life (for some reason the Blogger made very vibrant, particularly in the second picture). 

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!









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Tuesday, July 8, 2014

OOTD: Goodbye Blues

Well, here's a little update on my life! First, I graduated from college two weeks ago & earned my BA. I had so much fun at graduation & finally being done with college isn't so bad either. And..., I moved from Puerto Rico to Atlanta!!! It's been hard saying goodbye to the place I've called home for my entire life. Plus, it's where most of my family and friends are! I know it's not forever (I promised everyone it would only be for a year), but I'm gonna miss everyone so much, not to mention my beautiful Island. But, I must admit that Atlanta has been a lot more welcoming than I anticipated. I thought it to be very intimidating and that hasn't been the case at all. Everyone here has been so friendly! Not to mention, I live near two huge malls. It's a shopaholics dream!

On my last weekend in Puerto Rico I spent some time with my friends at La Concha Resort. We had lots of fun and took some great OOTD pictures.

First up is the OOTD featuring one of my new favorite tops:





Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)



Top: ASOS

Jeans: Torrid

Shoes: ZARA

Earrings: Forever21

Watch: Michael Kors




This pastel turquoise peplum top from ASOS is just so pretty (I wish it wouldn't have been so windy but, I can't complain...we had fun!). Plus, it's super comfortable! I can't wait to see what else I can pair it with.

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!










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Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Review: Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil

I'm ridiculously lazy when it comes to removing my makeup! Come on, admit it...you are too! ;P Laziness aside, it's essential not to skip this step before heading bed. Sleeping with your makeup on can clog pores, cause breakout, and even lead to premature aging. So, it is very important to establish a night time skincare routine. I've just recently added the Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil to my routine and wanted to share my thoughts on it with you.

You should know:

  • It does not contain: parabens, sulfates, & phthalates.
  • Formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Product must be applied to dry skin (directly on makeup).
  • Be sure to massage product in for at least 30 seconds.
  • Be sure to follow up with your daily cleanser of preference.

Its claims: An effectively gentle way to deep cleanse, this refreshing cleansing oil dissolves impurities and makeup without leaving an oily residue.



Pros:
  • Truly remove all of your makeup, including waterproof mascara.
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin, doesn't sting eye area.
  • Leaves skin feeling refreshed & clean (no residue left behind).
  • Does not cause breakouts.
  • Wonderful alternative to makeup wipes (faster, gentler, cost-effective). 
Cons:
  • Can temporarily cloud your vision (only for a couple of seconds). 
  • It takes two to three pumps of product (instead of the the one to two suggested).

I bought this product on a total whim and could not have been more surprised. I think I just found a new "holy grail" product! It literally get all of your makeup off in a matter of second, which is perfect for a lazy person like me! As awesome as this product is, you should always follow up with a cleanser to ensure that your skin is squeaky clean before your "beauty rest"! 

Have you tried this product yet? If you have, what are your thoughts on it? If you enjoyed this post and/or found it helpful feel free to share it on your favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!





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