DIY Wire Grid Memo Board (EASY)

I've been in the process of decorating and organizing my new filming and office space. I have a few DIY projects that I have in mind, and one of them is this Wire Memo Grid Board that I've seen floating around Pinterest. I've also seen Urban Outfitters sell this wire memo board for $59 (comes in three different colors)!!! Although it is cute and very tumblr looking, it's a little bit too pricey for my liking, so I took matters into my own hands and DIY'd it.

And what do you know... it's probably one of the easiest DIY I've ever made.

November 2016 Beauty Favorites

I've rounded up some of my favorite beauty products for November. Watch why I've been loving these beauty items. Let me know if you have tried them out too!

November Beauty Favorites

• bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash* - This is my current face wash that's part of my skincare routine. I like how this face wash cleanses and gently exfoliates your skin at the same time. It has very fine exfoliator bead that doesn't feel abrasive on the skin which makes it a great exfoliating cleaser for everyday use. I didn't find the cleanser drying on my skin; however, I haven't been using my Foreo Luna (review: February 2016 Favorites) as much while using this face wash since it becomes a little too much for my skin to handle.

• Benefit Cosmetics It's Potent Eye Cream* - I've only recently incorporated eye cream into my skincare routine. I've previously tried one other eye cream before this and didn't get a good experience on it as it left little tiny bumps around my eyes. I've been loving the Benefit Cosmetics It's Potent Eye Cream because you really only need a little bit of it to moisturize both eyes. I light dip my ring finger into the jar and simply lightly dab the eye cream under my eyes. I've noticed that my eyes look much more refreshed after using it.

Green Bomber Jacket + White Sneakers

Crop top (similar here and here) / Bomber jacket (similar here and here) / Topshop Jamie high waisted skinnies / Adidas Superstar sneakers / Zara backpack (old, similar here and here) / Karen Walker sunglasses / Lips: Tarte Cosmetics Tartiest Lip Paint in "Spicy"

I walked my dog, Lionel, this morning and I can finally feel the brisk, cool air for fall. I'm a little excited about this because when I filmed my How to Style: Fall Wardrobe Essentials Lookbook video, it felt too much like summer. It was a little uncomfortable wearing all the layers in the heat. I'm just hoping that it'll stay this cold for Thanksgiving also.


As I've mentioned earlier, I just uploaded my 8 Fall Wardrobe Essentials + Lookbook over on my YouTube channel. It was something a little different than my usually lookbook videos since I only used the eight items that I talked about in the video to create eight different looks. I had a fun time mixing and matching these outfits while I was planning them out for the video.

Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Sweet & Savory Lipstick Swatches

Here are some lip swatches on most recent Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipsticks addition that were part of their Sweet & Savory collection released earlier this summer. I didn't swatch these lipsticks when I received the PR package back in May since I thought they were more appropriate for fall.

When I had open up the box with the new lipsticks, I was a little concerned on how the colors would look on me as they're something I normally wouldn't pick out for myself. However, I was pleasantly surprised how much I loved some of the colors in this set.

Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipsticks - Sweet & Savory

(Available in 42 colors)

Price: $26

Available at: Sephora and Sephora.com

What it Claims: Swipe on bold, creamy lip color with Bite Beauty’s Amuse Bouche. Created and crafted by hand, Bite’s small batch, low-heat process preserves a balanced blend of lip-quenching nutrients, vitamins, and omega oils that are essential for achieving healthy-looking lips. Made with 12 edible oils and triple milled pigments, this lipstick provides saturated lip color with weightless coverage and a citrus flavor made from fresh pressed fruit. Formulated WITHOUT: Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates (from the Sephora website)

Formula

The formula of these lipsticks are very creamy and comfortable to wear. Every color that I swatched were extremely pigmented with one swipe. It also applied very smoothly while providing moisture on my lips and left a satin finish. The lipsticks has a pleasant yet citrusy scent and taste to it that's not too overpowering.

Overall Wear

The lipsticks have amazing color payoff. However, they easily transfer on my mug and when I did a kiss test on the back of my hand. Even though the lipsticks easily rubbed off after I had my lunch, the darker colors left a stain on my lips. I also I want to point out that the color does settle in the crease of my lips, so something to be aware of when you're wearing this as you might need of a touch-up. Even though the color doesn't last as long, I didn't experience any feathering on the edges of my lips even without using a lip liner prior to applying the lipstick.

Watch the Video

Photos of the lip swatches after the jump...

Criss-cross tee

Socialite strap front tee / BlankNYC faux leather moto jacket / Paige Denim skinnies / Jenni Kayne brogues (similar) / Zara backpack (inspiration here and cheaper alternative here)

Sometimes, when I look at my old photos (not that they're that old), I find it a little weird when I see myself with blonde hair. It's the same thing as finding it a little weird seeing myself with dark hair while I had light hair for five years. Hair color and hair styles can really change your whole look and feel.

And here's the last outfit on my How to Style: A Basic Tee + Skinny Jeans video. My last two outfits (here and here) are more of a casual and relaxed looks. For this outfit, I want to incorporate my favorite t-shirt as part of my date night outfit.

How I Do My Brows (Brow Routine)

Benefit Cosmetics BrowVo! Conditioning Primer / Precisely My Brow Pencil / Goof Proof Brow Pencil / 3D Browtones

One of my least favorite things to do (before) when it comes to my beauty routine was probably doing my brows. I've always had a problem filling them in and could never get them to look "on fleek". I've always envied nicely groomed thick brows and wish that mine would at least look half way decent.

Then, my friend Heart invited me to be her guest to attend the Benefit Cosmetics reveal in Las Vegas earlier this year. Back in May, Benefit Cosmetics released their new brow collection that changed my brow game.

If you're wondering how I've been doing my brows lately, I've created a video showing you my brow routine step-by-step. Benefit Cosmetics' brow products are currently my latest brow arsenal to achieve a full and bold brow look. For reference, I'm currently using Shade 4 for Benefit's brow products.

Olive Green Tee and Grey Jeans

Lush t-shirt (another similar option) / Urban Outfitters boyfriend cardigan / Paige grey skinnies / Rag & Bone boots / Forever 21 choker wrap necklace / Sole Society tote

Here's the second outfit on my How to Style a Basic Tee and Skinny Jeans. If you missed the video, you can watch it here. I did a different video format where I talk about the pieces first that I used in my look book in the video to give you a bit of a background on them and why I chose each pieces.

How To Style a Basic Tee and Skinny Jeans

Madewell white v-neck pocket t-shirt / Topshop Jamie high waisted jeans / Thread & Supply quilted bomber jacket / Rebecca Minkoff Hudson Moto bag / Adidas Superstar sneakers

I just posted a YouTube video on my channel on how to style a basic tee and skinny jeans three different ways. Sometimes, we get into a rut styling some of our well loved basic pieces. I've shared three different looks on how I rock my t-shirt and skinny jeans for different occasions.

I found myself owning more basic t-shirts in my wardrobe and a good fitting pair of jeans. Since summer is over and fall is here, it's time for me to transition back to my skinny jeans. Here's one of the looks in the video. Click after the jump to see the rest of the outfits and for a quick review on these jeans.

Basic White Tee

James Perse White t-shirt / Distressed shorts / ASOS belt / Birkenstock sandals / Karen Walker sunglasses / DIY choker / Fringe tote

This was my go-to minimalist outfit in the summer. A combination of a t-shirt and distressed shorts. I preferred a white shirt on most days to keep me cool in the heat. I know it's already October which technically means it's fall. The weather hasn't cooled down as much as I was hoping to. It's still hot. When the sun's out, the legs are out!

Striped Shirt and Linen Shorts

Stripe shirt (similar here and here) (see worn here) / Linen shorts (see worn here) / Rayban sunglasses / Converse sneakers / Fringe tote

Striped shirts are one of my staple pieces in my closet. I have three different stripe shirts (in different styles) that I like to wear in rotation. But this basic black and white stripe shirt is my favorite.

Leaf Print

Forever 21 shirt / Boyfriend shorts / J.Crew belt / Vans sneakers / RipCurl hat

Happy Monday! I hope you all had a nice and relaxing weekend. I got some much needed rest and just did stuff around the house... the usual. It was unusually hot yesterday though only because it's been cooling down these past few days. This leaf print shirt definitely matched the mood and weather outside. Wearing this leaf print shirt is also very LA of me.

Off the Shoulder Top

ASOS off-the-shoulder top (petite sizing) (regular size) + belt / Boyfriend shorts / J.Crew slides / DIY choker / Pandora necklace / Celine bag (similar)

Happy Friday! I hope you guys have some awesome plans for the weekend. Summer is slowly coming to an end, and I'm starting to notice that days are getting shorter. I'm going to miss seeing daylight up until 8pm and wearing cute summer outfits. However, I'm also so ready for fall! But here's a cute summer outfit that I'm definitely going to miss wearing.

Color-Blocking into Fall

Splendid top (similar here and here) / DIY choker - see tutorial here (similar here and here) / Janessa Leone hat / Brandy Melville shorts (similar) / All Saints boots (old, similar here and here)

I feel like we're getting a little taste of fall today as it was cooler than usual. As I took the little gremlin (my dog, Lionel Bean) out for a walk, I felt the cool but crisp breeze outside. It was a nice change since I'm so ready for the cooler weather (and the layering).

Comfy Stripe T-Shirt Dress

Old Navy stripe t-shirt dress (similar here and here) / Birkenstock sandals / 3.1 Phillip Lim clutch (inexpensive option)

Happy Monday! Here's a super easy and comfortable outfit that I find myself wearing lately on lazy days. A t-shirt dress is perfect for days when you might need to hide your food baby after eating out some delicious noms.

Blacked Out

Top (similar here and here) / Zara skirt (old, other cute alternatives here and here) / Faux leather moto jacket (my most recent purchase) / Block heel boots (similar here, here, and more options listed below) / Chanel boy bag (cheaper alternative here)

If you haven't been watching my Youtube channel lately or haven't caught up on reading my posts, I have been in the process of decluttering and editing my closet. Several trips to Goodwill/Buffalo Exchange/Crossroads later, I decided that I needed a break from the madness. While that's on hold for now, I've recently moved on to painting my second bedroom and turning it into my office.

White Stripes

Old Navy striped shirt (similar here and here) + shorts (similar) / Janessa Leone hat (similar)  / Equipment button-down shirt (similar) / ASOS belt / Converse sneakers / DIY Choker / Louis Vuitton Pochette bag

My summer-go-to uniform consisted of something like this: shirt + shorts + sneakers.

August 2016 Beauty Favorites: Skincare & Makeup

Neutrogena leave-on mask / L'Oreal peel pads / TULA mask / Benefit Cosmetics Browvo! primer + eyeliner / CLEAN body splash / Lancome lip crayons

Happy Labor Day! August has come and go, and we're now on to September. It's crazy how summer just went by like a blink of an eye.

I'm going to start rounding-up my favorite beauty products every month, so I can share some of the beauty items that I have been testing and loving lately. Watch or read which products made my August beauty favorites list...

10 Tips on How to Tidy the KonMari Way

As I've mentioned in my previous minimalism video (and post), I've been embarking on the minimalism journey to simplify my life (and to do something about my anxiety). One of the books that has impacted me is The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. Marie Kondo created a decluttering system to help you tidy up your home... and keep it that way.

I've been implementing the techniques in her book, as I work on my own clutter. Here are some of the things that I've learned on how to tidy the KonMari way.

Watch the Video:

White Boyfriend Blazer

White boyfriend blazer / Splendid V-neck (similar) / Distressed denim shorts / Birkenstock sandals / EssexLA leopard print clutch (similar)

Switching it up a bit with a crisp white boyfriend blazer instead of a black one. A white blazer is more appropriate for me during summer since it gives the whole look a more relaxed and airy feel to it. You can easily incorporate a white blazer into your outfit especially if you need a little bit of warmth during the chilly summer nights.

Minimalism: Why I started

This is a little bit different than my usual beauty and fashion posts. I have briefly mentioned this topic here on my blog, but this will be the first time where I'm dedicating a post about it. At first, I've translated the concept of minimalism into my wardrobe simply because I liked the aesthetic. And now, minimalism is carrying over into my lifestyle. Never did I think I'd be attempting to live a more simplistic life. I am, in fact, a borderline hoarder and shopaholic. I found joy in buying things. Things that sat in my closet because it was too pretty to use. Until one day, it became a little too overwhelming for me to handle, and it started to put a damper in my life.

Back-to-School Drugstore Makeup Tutorial

Back-to-School has officially begun for some, so I've created a makeup look to help you look your best (or at least awake) in school using drugstore makeup. Here's a look that I would wear to school (if I were still in school). I created a simple look that's easy to recreate even if you're in a rush in the morning. When I was in college, I mainly used drugstore products when it comes to doing my makeup. Being a college student, buying makeup can be a bit of a luxury. But with good drugstore makeup options these days, you can enhance your look without breaking the bank.

Summer Getaway

J.Crew top (petite size on sale for $25) / Old Navy Shorts (similar) / Market tote bag (similar and this one has cute palm prints) / J.Crew slides (20% off with code LOTSTOSHOP) / Forever 21 straw hat (another cute option)

I'm sure dressed like one, but I haven't had a proper vacation in awhile. I'm seeing a few of my friends going on tropical vacations right now for the summer. I'll just have to live through them vicariously for now through their social media posts.





Read the rest of the content after the jump...

48 Hours in New Orleans (Photo and Video Diary)

It's been a month since I was in New Orleans. It was my first time being there, and I didn't know what to expect. I was mainly there for a work trip, but I tried to squeeze some sightseeing while I was there. I pretty much stayed around the French Quarter area, but realized that there were still so many things to do there! I can't wait to be back here again because I know there were a few places that I wanted to check-out that I didn't get the chance to. But for now here are some of the things that I did in New Orleans in 48 hours.

Check out my video diary and recommendations after the jump...

Little Black Dress

ASOS off the shoulder dress / Fringe necklace / Zara heels (old, similar here and here) / Celine Nano bag (similar)

Happy Monday! I have been kind of M.I.A in my social media these past few days, so I'm popping my head back in today. The past few days have been a bit of a whirlwind. My roommate recently moved out, so I have been taking care of some loose ends here and there. My car also decided that it was time for it to break down, so I had to take it to the shop.

Despite of the craziness, I try to remind myself that in the grand scheme of life, these are all minor things. I treated myself to a nice dinner just to unwind from it all. I wore my current favorite black dress that makes me feel 100% and sassy at the same time.

Read more after the jump...

Denim Shift

BP Denim Dress / All Saints boots (old, similar) / Sole Society Tote / Baublebar necklace 

It may not look like it, but deep down I'm excited that I finally found a cute denim shift dress. This dress didn't make it in any of the haul videos that posted recently since I had to wait for this to get shipped to my house for quite some time. I've been on a lookout for one for awhile now and this also happens to be on sale! Not to mention, I'm always down for dresses with pockets. And how cute is the fringe detail on the edges of the dress? I had to pull my fringe booties out to keep a fringe theme going.





I decided to keep it simple for the day since I was just hanging out with my friend. I wanted the focus to be on the actual dress so I kept the accessories to a minimum. This bag from Sole Society came in handy to stuff all my belongings with the things I bought that day. I love how roomy this tote is and how it's a great everyday bag when you're going in between places.

There's only five days left to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Once August 8 comes around, the prices go back up (and I'll stop talking about it :P)! I know that's all I seem to be talking about lately these days, but it's one of my favorite shopping "holiday" (aside from Black Friday and Christmas shopping). There are just so many brand-new arrivals on sale right now to get you ready for fall, and I wouldn't want you to miss out on the great prices. Most of the items that I purchased can easily transition from summer to fall, and I've been wearing most of the things that recently bought. If you haven't checked-out my YouTube channel yet, I actually just posted a lookbook video wearing some of the pieces from my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul.

Beauty and Accessories Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul #NSale

LnA tank (similar - on sale) / Genetic denim skinnies (similar - on sale) / Criss-cross slides (similar) / Choker (DIY) / Balenciaga bag

We're back in triple digit temperature here, and I'm finding solace inside the mall where it's nice and cool. It also gives me a reason to pop back inside Nordstrom to check if there's anything I missed during sale. I just uploaded another Nordstrom haul video on my Youtube channel recently (you can also watch it down below). Check out what I've recently picked-up.

I've been constantly checking their website to see if any of the items on my wishlist have been restocked. There's still a little over a week left and some of the cuter pieces are selling out. But not to worry, there are still plenty more to choose from.

Here are some of my previous posts about the #NSale:

• More Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks (Accessories, Beauty, Shoes, Etc)
• 5 Outfits to Help You Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
• Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul (Early Access)

I've already picked-up some of the things that I ordered after I published my first Nordstrom Anniversary Sale haul video. Thank goodness for online shopping and their pick-up in store option. Sometimes I like to do my shopping at the wee hours at night. It's nice to have the option of picking it up since I get a bit impatient waiting for my online order to come in the mail. See some of the beauty and accessory products that I have picked out during the sale.

Shop my haul below

And here are some of the things I'm still waiting for to come in the mail:

- Honeydew 'Camellia' Lace Bralette - I've been ditching my super padded underwire bras lately and opting for a cute lace bralette. These are very similar to the ones that bought at Urban Outfitters a while back.

- BeautyBlender Best Friend Set - This is a no-brainer and a great buy. If you don't own a beauty blender yet or would like to have a backups of it (because you'll need to replace this anyway at some point), definitely pick this up. You can use one for your liquid foundation, and other one for applying translucent powder when you have to bake your face.

- BP Frayed Denim Shift Dress - I've been looking for a cute denim shift dress, and I finally found one! I love the frayed edges of this dress.

- BP Fringe Infinity Scarf - Looks like it'll be a cozy piece for fall and winter. The fringe is going to add an adorable detail to any outfit.

- BP Short Sleeve High/Low Tee - Stocking up on some basic t-shirts. I like how this has a bit of a "longer" short sleeve.

- adidas Boyfriend Tee - Casual logo tee. Very 90s. I would pair this with my new adidas white sneakers.

More Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks (Accessories, Beauty, Shoes, Etc.) #NSale

Today is the last day for early access for the Nordstrom Anniversary for cardholders. The sale will officially be open to the public tomorrow, July 22. I'm still constantly checking the Nordstrom website to see what other goodies I can pick up or what I might have missed (check out my previous haul video and post here). I'm seeing items that I've seen on the first day that I sat on to think about whether I should buy it or not that have sold out. I can only imagine more will be sold out once the sale officially opens to the public tomorrow. I'm still doing most of my Fall shopping already and have already placed my third order. Thank goodness for Nordstrom's store pick-up option, I can place my order online, and pick it up once it's ready. I decided to pick up most of items at my local Nordstrom because I can't wait that long for my order to be shipped to me.

Here are some of my other picks from the sale. I've noted which items are the ones that I've either already ordered or owned from my last haul video. Some of the items were no longer available at my Nordstrom store anymore, so I'll have to be patient and wait for them to be delivered. I will be doing another round of haul and try-on video for my next batch of orders. If you haven't taken advantage of the sale yet, here are some of my accessories, beauty, and shoe picks from the #NSale.

Click on the image to shop and be taken directly to the item. Happy Shopping!

ACCESSORIES

BP Plaid Square Scarf (ordered) - I'm starting to have quite a collection of plaid blanket scarves. I couldn't pass this one up because I love the preppy fall element of it. The material feels pretty light but will still keep you warm. The fringed edges adds a worn-in relaxed look. 

BP Fringe Infinity Scarf (ordered) - Another favorite! It's cute, comfy, and cozy. The scarf is ribbed and since it's just a big loop, it makes it easier to pop into your fall outfit.

Brixton 'Messer II' Felted Wool Fedora - Classic black fedora with a leather band detail to it. 

Nixon 'Ragnar' Leather Strap Watch (ordered) - Every year, I seem to try to pick-up a brand-new watch during Nordstrom's Anniversary sale, and this is my 2016 pick. I really like the simplicity and square face of the watch which makes it much different than the ones that I already own. I really like how big the face is against my tiny wrist without it being overwhelming. Also, there are enough holes for me to fit into this watch. This watch also comes in with a brown strap and white face.

Shore Projects 'Project 3' Round Watch Box Set - If you're looking for a more budget-friendly yet stylish watch, this maybe the set for you. It has three interchangeable straps so you can easily switch in and out of depending on your mood or your outfit. 

Illesteva 'Leonard II' Round Mirrored Sunglasses - Comes in five other designs. These fit my face nicely without touching my cheeks. I really love the matte tortoise and red mirrored glasses, and oddly enough, I also liked the white camo when I tried it on. I might have been watching too many Casey Neistat vlogs lately since the white camo is very reminiscent to the one that he always wears. 

Tory Burch Retro Sunglasses - These sunglasses reminds of something Audrey Hepburn might wear. I really like the retro style that I can see myself wearing this during a Sunday brunch outside on a patio somewhere in Santa Monica.

Read after the jump to see more of my #NSale picks...

5 Outfits to Help You Shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale #NSale

Denim shirt / Moto jacket (less than $70) / Black skinnies / Metallic Oxford shoes (available in 3 colors)

Even though I've already visited my Nordstrom store and hauled a few things in my latest video, I'm still periodically checking the Nordstrom website for items to my wardrobe. I'm working my way to the beauty exclusives for any must-haves or sets that I need. I'm going to be sharing my beauty picks in another post. But today, I'm going to share some of my key wardrobe pieces that you can shop during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale. With the overwhelming amount items currently marked down up to 40% off,  I've scoured the #NSale for you to give you some ideas on which pieces to add to your closet using some of my previous outfit posts. I picked out the items that are usually on rotation on the reg in my wardrobe no matter what season it is.



If you haven't had the chance to check out Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale early access yet, I talked about it in my previous blog post how you can get your shop on before it the sale goes public on JULY 22. I've noticed that some pieces are either already backordered or sold out, and it hasn't been a week yet since the sale started. You wouldn't want to miss out on grabbing your summer and fall/winter staples at a discounted price while it's hot!!!




Seeing that there are soooo many items that's currently markdown (early access for cardholders only for now, but you can apply now), it can be a little overwhelming to know where to start... let alone what to buy. Sometimes having too many options can make it more difficult to figure out what ends up in your shopping cart. Luckily, with Nordstrom's free shipping and free returns, online shopping doesn't have to be a such a daunting thing.

Here are some of my favorite outfits from my blog archives to give you some outfit ideas with items that are currently markdown for Nordstrom's Anniversary sale. Starting with this outfit...

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Haul (Early Access)

* Click on the icons on the collage to shop items (disable ad-blocker to view icons) *

Shirt / Bomber Jacket / Criss-cross shirt / Nautical sweatshirt / Cowl neck dress / Floral print dress / Nike sneakers / Lace-up flats / Adiddas sneakers

Watch my haul video to see the items that I purchased during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale in action:



Early access for Nordstrom card holders to the Nordstrom Anniversary sale, the most anticipated sale of the year, started a few days ago, July 14. I popped my head in to check out some of the goods, and walked out with a few bags in tow. The sale will be accessible to the public JULY 22 and prices go back up AUGUST 8. This sale is not like any other sale since this gives you a chance to shop BRAND NEW items at 33% to 40% off their regular price. Nordstrom's free shipping and free returns just makes online shopping easy and hassle-free.

If you're not yet a Nordstrom card holder yet, you can either apply for a credit or debit card to get early access to the sale. If you think you have too many credit cards already, applying for a debit card gives you the same benefits except money will be drawn out directly from your personal bank account. The process is quick, and they'll also give you a $20 Nordstrom note when you spend $100 on the day you've been approved. That's an additional $20 discount to go towards your shopping!

I've noticed that some items are sold out already or no longer available on the website within a few days. I'm not sure if the items will be restocked, but I'll you know when it does. So make sure to follow me on Twitter and Facebook to get notified. I'll also be doing round up posts of my recommendations in the following days, so you can see my other picks from the sale.

Let me know if you have had the chance to check-out the early access to the sale already and what you've picked up on the comments below! 

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