Today's Look- The Dress

Recently I posted a picture on my Facebook page wearing a blue tie-back maxi dress to a family wedding. I got SO many questions and comments about this dress, which makes me very excited to share with you where I purchased it, especially since I think it's still available! (see link below)

First off, I'm a FIRM believer that you can still look elegant without breaking the bank, and too often I find that other bloggers post pictures of outfits that are just not realistic for the everyday girl. (especially those of us that still wait tables :/) Now, this does not mean that I don't appreciate a fabulous designer handbag or sunglasses every once in a while. I mean, we still have to treat ourselves here and there, but I think mixing less expensive brands with high-end products is ABSOLUTELY acceptable. (and sometimes necessary.)

For example, I think every woman should own at least one expensive designer clutch or purse. It just makes you feel good, and even if you only use it for a special occasion, it's yours to feel proud of. Especially if you're lucky enough to pay for it yourself! ;)

So that was my rant on expensive things.


Now to the dress. I got this cut-out beauty from EXPRESS on CLEARANCE for under $40.00!! **THIS WHOLE OUTFIT WAS ON CLEARANCE** I believe it was 60% off and then I had addition coupons. I love express coupons! It also comes in black if you're looking for something more basic, but trust me, you won't be looking basic with this baby on.

The dress ties in the back, which creates sexy cut-outs around the mid tummy area, then has long slits in the front for just enough Angelina Jolie leg-stopping-action. A dress like this can also be dressed down for something a little more casual, like a garden party, with a pair of wedges. But I wanted to really **GLAM** this look up with bold accessories (opted for gold but a contrasting pink or coral would look pretty too) and a fun patterned shoe. And since it's long, it's still perfect for fall if paired with the right jacket or coat.

The shoes are Isaac Mizrahi, that I picked up from DSW for under $50.00 ( additional 40%off, Orig $130). All-in-all, I'd say this outfit is a WIN for the wallet!  

  Luis Andrino Photography

Dress EXPRESS//Shoe IsaacMizrahi DSW//Clutch CharmingCharlies//Earrings CharmingCharlies//Bangles CharmingCharlies

Click me to find dress at EXPRESS

Stay classy!

Xx,

Today's Look- Goodbye Summer...Hello Fall *Fashion!

It seems as though this LA heat wave is coming to a bittersweet end. The cool breeze is in the air, clouds are rolling in, and that can only mean one thing..FALL IS COMING! Being a so-cal girl, I'm a lover of summer, but I can't deny my love/hate relationship with fall fashion. On the one hand, it's cold out and getting dressed requires extra layers, meaning extra time. But on the other hand, the creative possibilities are ENDLESS. 

This look includes a few of my favorite fall trends; Knits, layers, and wide-brimmed hats! Don't forget accessories.(duh) Just because you're covering up, doesn't mean you can't show off those jewels. 

Let me tell you, I'm OBSESSED with this faux leather moto vest I picked up at H&M while I was on vacation in San Francisco. I love it because it can literally be layered over anything, (dresses included) for extra warmth and dimension to your outfit. The fringe accents and wide collar make it chic & playful. 

For a night out-- Lose the sweater, zip up the vest, and rock it as a sexy top with some skinny pants and high heels. 

..And of course this look wouldn't be complete unless I threw on a dramatic statement piece! :) 

                                                            Luis Andrino  Photography 

MotoVest H&M//KnitSweater J-Bee Boutique//SkinnyPants Forever21// Boots H&M//Hat UniqueVintage//Necklace&Rings CharmingCharlies

Stay classy!

Xx,

Today's Look- Summer Vibes

Hey Dolls! Today's look is all about keeping cool in this warm summer heat! I found this great little outfit from...wait for it.. EXPRESS! I went crazy at their clearance sale and these lacy cream-colored shorts and white tank were a few of my many fab finds! I'm in love with these shorts because they aren't your typical white or beige shorts, the lace trim really does give them extra "cuteness." I also added some of the great accessories I picked up from Charming Charlies last week. Threw on a pair of gladiator sandals (also from Express) that zip up in the back for a quick get-away. Lastly, don't forget your sunnys! Summer is almost over :( So head to the beach, lay by the pool, and soak up those summer vibes before they're gone!

Top Express//Shorts Express//Necklace CharmingCharlies//Bracelet CharmingCharlies//Rings CharmingCharlies//Sandals Express// Sunglasses H&M

Stay classy!

Xx,

Salmon Tacos with Mango & Pineapple Salsa

 Grilled Salmon Tacos with Mango and Pineapple salsa. It's quick, healthy, cheap, and simple!...my favorite kind of recipe!

All you need:

• Salmon Filets (as many as you think you need depending on how hungry you are)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Tropical Mango and Pineapple Salsa from Trader Joe's. (You can get all the ingredients fresh and make your own homemade salsa, but I don't have time for all that! I did say this recipe was quick) 
• Chili Powder, Cayenne Pepper or Paprika (SPICE IT UP!)
• Avocado
• Limes
• Corn Tortillas
• "Lean, mean, fat grilling machine" Trusty George Foreman grill Or any grill of your choice :)

Start off by coating salmon filets with extra virgin olive oil and a little bit of salt, black pepper, and as much or little, of the spice of your choice that you can handle. Next, grill-it-up-good! Heat up corn tortillas (double layer per taco) then top with grilled salmon, salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime. If you prefer extra heat, like moi, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce! 

Bon Appetit!!

Xx,

C

Xx,

Today's Look- Viva La Poncho!

This winter I became obsessed with wearing this baby. My boyfriend told me it was like I was wearing a "snuggie," which is exactly how it feels! Except it's more like wearing a chic/stylish blanket around:) Rock it lounging around the house, or dress it up with great boots and skinny pants for a night out. I love this poncho even more because I got it from Marshall's for only $25!! 

Pancho Marshalls/ Hat BCBG (from Marshall's)/ Pants Nordstrom/ Boots Express/ Watch Michael Kors/ Bracelet Charming Charlies/ Bracelet Stella Valle

Stay classy

Xx,

Today's Look- Getting High with the 90's.

Hi babes! I'm back! Sorry I have been MIA lately..But I'm back to spread the fashion-joy!
Today's look is all about HIGHS. High waist, high heels and knee highs. 

Love this top. It's a random tee that says, "Dream on Dreamer" Rather then tuck the top in, I just tied a small knot on the bottom. (excuse the raindrops on my shirt) 

These baby doll pumps never go out of style. 

 Close up of today's accessories

Cross from Charming Charlies/ Bracelet from Stella Valle/ Watch from Michael Kors

There's something about this look that makes me feel like I'm channeling Cher Horowitz from Clueless.  Pair a high-waisted skirt with knee highs and high heels and you're rocking the best of the 90's. I chose to wear a faux leather skirt rather then the typical plaid, but that's just more my steez. Don't forget the high bun and most importantly, your HIGH STANDARDS! 

Top Forever21/ Skirt Nordstrom/ Knee-high socks Forever21/ Shoes I can't remember:( / Necklace Charming Charlies/ Sunglasses Nordstrom/ 

Stay classy

Xx,

c

No More Chipped Nails!!

I have been super excited to write this particular blog post because I am absolutely OBSESSED and impressed (I know, I say this about everything) with Sally Hansen's Gel Polish Manucure Kit! Sally is my girl and she has got it right with this kit. 

Okay, before I get too excited, it is a bit on the pricey side. I know that may scare you away but if you're like me and you hate..no..LOATHE chipped nails, this is a kit for you! I love to paint my nails. I find it quite therapeutic and relaxing actually, but when I see a chip, especially if it's the next day or two, I get annoyed, antsy, and just re-do them. 

Because of this, I recently started getting gel manicures. You see, I cocktail waitress at a pretty upscale restaurant and how tacky would it be if I was serving this expensive food and drinks with my ratchet nails. Not cute and not very appetizing. Also, when your nails are on-point, it makes you feel pretty too. 

So these gel manicures were costing me about $35.00 every two to three weeks. (They were only lasting about a week anyway..) As I would watch the woman do my nails, I thought, "I could totally do this." So I did some research, read some reviews, and came across Sally's at-home gel kit. NOT THE STRIPS( I haven't tried those.) I buckled down and spent the $69.99 on a kit at Walgreens, only to see it on sale at Target for $45.00 like a week later. (Totally annoying..I know.) And came home and followed the easy step-by-step instructions.

So, it didn't look as great as Wone (my nail lady) does it, but of course, everything takes a little practice. I couldn't believe how long they lasted and how nice my nails looked. Not to mention, everyone thought I had got them done which was worth the cost to me right there. Although I spent 70 bucks on it, I have already done my nails about 6 times which would have cost me over $200! 

The only problem is with this "starter kit" it only comes with one color. So basically you're stuck with that color until you pay another $10.00 to buy another color you fancy. (Which is STILL cheaper than 35 bucks!)

When you buy the kit, this is what it comes with..

1. Base coat
2. Nail color
3. Top coat
4. 10 cleaner pads
5. Cuticle stick, nail file/buffer
6. Acetone remover
7. LED lamp.

It also comes with instructions. Now, I would walk you through step-by-step of how to complete the process but I'm pretty sure if you're reading this blog, you can read instructions, so I won't bore you ;)

Basically, you do base coat, lamp.
Nail color, lamp.
Top coat, lamp.

Just make sure you do THIN layers of each coat, otherwise the polish will be too thick and will peel off and won't last as long as you would like.

**SECRET TIP** the kit only comes with 10 cleaning pads, but I discovered that it's essentially just rubbing alcohol, so if you have some around the house, you can use that with a paper towel. (or something lint free) 

Removing the gels can be a bit of a pain. It says to apply the acetone to a cotton ball and wrap the cotton and piece of foil around your nails and let it soak until the color melts off. I don't do this and I actually just peel it off, which is probably bad for your nails, but I'm guessing soaking them in acetone isn't the best either :/

I didn't do such a great job the first time, but here is my nails after 8 days!! I kid-you-not! No chips yet!  This is my favorite color also, it's called "Pat on the Black"

I hope you get a chance to try this amazing kit!

Stay classy!
Xx,

How to Get the Perfect Winged Liner

Oh my goodness, I have been SLACKING in the blogging department. Sorry! Anyway, I have recently been asked by a few people to post a blog about how to achieve the perfect winged liner. I came across this great diagram (better than anything I could ever make) and it's a perfect demonstration of the easiest way to get this look. 

                 
     http://rockettqueen.tumblr.com/post/54267437587/winged-eyeliner-pictorial-steps

When doing your liner it's always important to start from the outside and work your way in toward the eye. (towards your nose) 
1. First make a very small line angled toward the end of your eyebrow.
2. Next connect that line to the outer corner of your eye.
3. After that you can connect that line to the inner corner of your eye and setting desired "thickness"

** the bigger the eyes you have the thicker the line you can can have. However, if you have smaller eyes, then you may wanna make your liner much thinner so it doesn't over power the shape of you eye. I have very small eyes, so sometimes I like to draw my liner in, only to about the  middle of my eye and not drag it all the way in towards the corner of my eye. I think it make my eyes open up more.

Here's an example of how I do my liner.

You can achieve this look using any type of liquid or gel liner that you prefer. I personally use Mac's liquid liner in"boot black" which is a felt-tip liner that lasts FOR-EV-ER! (seriously, like almost a year) 

Some may find it easier to use gel liner and for this I would recommend Maybelline's "Eye Studio." With gel liner the key is to make sure you have a very small angled brush. 

I believe this liner comes with a brush but if you don't like it then here are some other examples of what you should look for. 

                                     

Most importantly.. PRACTICE, PRACTICE , PRACTICE! No one ever gets it right the first time. I, myself struggle to get it perfect but the more and more you play with it, the more it will become effortless. 

Cheers, dolls!
Xx,

Look of the Day- Pop of BLUE!

Today's Look is inspired by 9-5'er working woman. Just because you have to work in a cubical doesn't mean you can't look sexy (to a certain extent of course). And oh, you know how I love a "random tee." Especially when paired with a great pencil-skirt and heels. (however, you may not be able to pull off this faux leather skirt at the office. Don't wanna invite too many unwanted stares.) Also, if you invest in some great accessories you can really create an opportunity to jazz up your work attire. You don't have to spend too much either. (necklace from Forever21) A great statement piece like this can make your outfit go from okay to "hot damn, girl!"

 On this day I was really feeling BLUE. The color. Not the emotion. This royal blue is really in right now and goes great with just about anything. Plus, it's super eye-catching! Make getting ready for work fun, and when you look good, you feel good, which can make those stressful work days go by even faster.

Top/Forever21 Shoes/JustFab Purse/MichaelKors Sunglasses/Nordstrom Necklace/Forever21 Ring/CharmingCharlies Skirt/I Can't Remember! :/

Cheers, dolls!

Xx

c

Look of the Day-Big Hoops, Red Lips, High Heels.

Currently obsessed with these pants! They are very similar to Harem pants (parachute pants) except these aren't as baggy. These are also high-waisted and form-fitted at the ankles. Bottom line-- they are super comfy and can be dressed up with a great pair of heels! It's like a night-on-the town in your jammies. (Please don't ever go out in your actual jammies) The top is a tight crop top that I just tucked in, to give it a more sleek look. You can also wear a baggy tee (tucked in) but I like the more fitted look up top (to keep your waistline visible) with the baggy bottom. 

Pants/H&M Top/Nordstrom Shoes/JustFab Sunglasses/Nordstrom Hoops/Kohls-Daisy Fuentes Lipstick-Wet n' Wild"Cherry Picking"  

Stay classy

Xx,

How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes With Household Items

They're something we use almost every single day and probably the most neglected..OUR MAKEUP BRUSHES!

I admit it. I, myself, have a tendency to forget to wash my makeup brushes from time to time. Which, if you think about it, is kinda nasty because of how easily they can collect bacteria and then we rub them on our clean faces and near our eyes. This can cause breakouts or even eye infections.

I'm trying to get in the habit of washing my brushes once every two weeks, or at least once a month. Plus, every time you give them a good deep cleaning, it's as if you have a whole new set of brushes! I used to just wash my brushes with some of my regular face wash, then I tried using actual brush cleaner (Bare Minerals) but even after I did that, it still seemed as if there was makeup residue that just didn't wanna budge.

Then one day, while on set of a commercial, a makeup artist gave me a super helpful tip to try using olive oil. So I went home and tried this concoction that I'm sure some of you may have already heard of, but if not, get ready for the magic!

Things you will need:
1. Olive Oil (Extra Virgin Olive Oil will work too)
2. Dish Soap
3. Face Wash
4. Mixing Bowl or Plate
5. Dry Paper Towel

Step 1:
In a small mixing bowl add one capful of Olive Oil, 2 pumps of dish soap and I added one pump of my face wash, just for more anti-bacterial fighting power!

Step 2: 
Mix dirty brush in cleaning solution and then rub the brush back and forth on the palm of your hand. Continue to scrub and rinse clean under sink until the water runs clear. Be sure to be extra gentle when scrubbing goat hair brushes, as the hairs could fall out.

Step 3:
Rinse under HOT water to kill any left over bacteria and to melt any makeup buildup left behind.

Step 4:
Reshape damp brushes with finger tips and lay on a paper towel to dry. (preferably overnight)

Here's an example of just how effective this technique is. This is my FAVORITE foundation brush from Sigma that I can never seem to get clean, until now! 

This picture may not do justice, but the bristles on the right are white again, like the day I bought the brush.

This is a great way of maintaining your brushes, especially for those who invest in expensive ones. The olive oil keeps your brushes conditioned and soft, while the soap fights any bacteria and keeps them nice and clean :)

Cheers, dolls!
Xx,