Monday, December 5, 2016

Enough With Skinny Shaming!!!

Hello again, lovelies!
It's the most wonderful time of the year and it is the very start of holiday fitness resolutions and health goals. We all know how dangerous body shaming is in our culture, but we often think it's okay to shame people for being thin and fit. This is a very difficult topic for me to write about, but I feel that it really needs to be talked about more. Skinny shaming is something I've been on the receiving end of, and not to sound like a helpless victim or martyr, I just want to say that comments and negativity  hurt more than you may realize. We all have unique and wonderful bodies. There is no one "ideal" or "perfect" body. Who cares? It's no one's business but your own. We can do things like working out and eating well to improve our overall health, but you cannot control if you are born naturally more "curvy" or "thin". While I (and many other people) do work out and try to be conscious of what i (they) put into my (their) body, just because someone looks thin does not mean they have an eating disorder.
Comments such as:
-"Eat a burger!"
-"You must be so weak because you don't eat."
-"Real men love curves."
-"Your bones are disgusting. Bones are only for dogs."
-"You're already skinny."
-"You're so tiny!"

are so destructive. Why do you have to give your unwarranted opinion about someone else's body? Why can't we all agree that there are so many different "types" of bodies, and each of them is unique, beautiful, and powerful. For many people who have struggled or are currently struggling with positive body image, comments like the ones above can bring back scary and dark memories. Everyone's fighting a battle. We all need kindness, not mean judgmental comments. We wonder why there is an epidemic of poor body image all around the world, yet skinny shaming is treated a son big deal.

Regardless of what body type you have, be proud of it. Love your whole self both inside and out. Please be kind to yourself. I know we are often the harshest critics on ourselves, but self-love is so important. You are so special and wonderfully made. You don't need to listen to what anyone else says about what makes someone beautiful, attractive, or lovable.

You are so much more than what your body looks like. The things that make you attractive is your inner strength, your compassion for others, your desire to learn, your individuality. Don't worry about hateful comments. Jus keep being you!

XOXO
Chloe

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Be a Rebel... Break Some Rules

Hello lovelies,
I apologize for being so absent. You can thank the end of the college semester for that! I'm back and super excited about today's topic. We are now approaching winter. (Or is winter approaching us?) As with all seasons, many people have made rules for what is acceptable and unacceptable for the new season. So winter... some people say light colors/pastel are a big no. Or fabrics such as lace are also a no-go. I say, wear whatever is most comfortable and practical for you. Fashion is ultimately made for you. You have to own it and be confident. Others may appreciate what you wear (or maybe not) but who cares. It's great if they love your outfit, but you shouldn't dress just for those people.

I experiment with styles and clothes. I guess my personal style is more collage-like. I mix and match various pieces and my closet has classic/more traditional pieces, bohemian, preppy, funky, and edgy pieces in it. I hate being bound by one specific style. I actually love breaking those "norms" and rules about what to wear and what not to wear during winter. I think light colors are great. They're feminine and add some softness to an outfit. They can easily go with other colors and are very versatile. Lace and other fabrics/textures often associated with warmer weather also add interest to the many warm winter layers. Most winter clothes are pretty basic and boring on their own, but adding new textures, creates a level of interest and fun. As I always say, just play and experiment. Something will work out and it'll look amazing. Don't be scared to bend the rules and be playful.

Stay warm and have some fun!

XOXO
Chloe

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Why Everyone Needs a Plaid Flannel Shirt

Hello, everyone!
November is here and autumn is in full force. Personally, I have mixed feelings about this season. Some of you may know that I absolutely LOVE summer and warm weather, so when the weather starts getting nippy, I get very scared and just want to hide under blankets and stay warm. I would much rather be too hot than even a tiny bit chilly. However, autumn offer lots of beauty. All of the sudden the world is full of vibrant and rich colors. This post is dedicated to my favorite piece of Fall clothing. I've embraced the possibility of being mistaken for a lumberjack.

I personally love plaid/flannel shirts because they're super comfy to wear by themselves, and they can also be added as an extra layer over t-shirts and dresses. I find that pairing them with a dress adds a bit more "rough-and-tumble" vibe to your outfit. I love dresses, but I personally like dressing them down because I don't love the super girly look. (It's very common for me to wear a dress with combat boots or an army motif jacket.) I also like tying them around my waist and using them as an accessory. I even pair plaid with a basic striped shirt. (Crazy! I know!) In my experience, it works best with smaller stripes, but it really doesn't matter, Just mix prints and experiment. Style is meant to be played with.

By the way, American Eagle sells the softest flannel shirts you could ever imagine. Sure, they're a bit on the pricier side, but once you feel how amazing the fabric is, you will agree it is an absolute essential. Treat yo self!

That's it for now, enjoy the beautiful colors and stay cozy!

XOXO
Chloe

Thursday, October 13, 2016

Love Your Eyelashes

Hello everyone!
I'm back for a quick beauty product review.

So, I've been hearing a lot about eyelash primers. People have been claiming they make a huge difference and you can tell your lashes are longer and fuller.  At first, I was skeptical. False advertising (or extremely exaggerated advertising), placebo effect, etc. But I have this thing called curiosity so I had to give it a try. I hopped on to jet.com (This is not sponsored!) and ordered a $2 tube of eye;ash primer. Today I tried out the primer and guess what? It really works! Now, it's not a super dramatic difference. It's more subtle but I did notice my mascara was not as clumpy (I use Mary Kay's Lash Intensity mascara. It's a volumizing formula and a bit drier so it can be a little clumpy at times.) I also notice that with just one coat of primer and one coat of mascara, my lashes looked fuller and longer.


I purchased the Photo Focus Lash Primer from Wet n Wild. As I said earlier, you can find it super cheap on Jet.com (as well as other beauty products) Just curl your lashes, apply the primer, and use whatever mascara you like. It's a super easy way to give your lashes more length and volume without having to wear false lashes or get lash extensions.














Have an amazing day, beauties! I don't mean to sound like an annoying salesperson. I just wanted to share my personal success story. I am not trying to sell anything. However, if you are curious about whether this products works for you, I encourage you to try it and let me know if you also had success with it.

XOXO
Chloe

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Don't Be Afraid To Revise

Hello, everyone!
I apologize for being a ghost. I've had so much going on, and I've let this blog slip through the cracks.
I'm back and I'm ready to share some insight into all things fashion, beauty, and style.

I want to encourage you to embrace change.

This year, I am a senior in college. It's still hard for me to believe that four years have flown by so quickly. In many ways, I still feel like I'm just a little high school student. I realized my wardrobe is still stuck in my high school fashion trends. It's worked just fine for my college years. There's no real difference between high school and college style. (Trust me, Gossip Girl fashion does not exist in real life)

But all seniors in college can't help thinking about the next steps. And for me, I am dedicated to making sure I revise my style so I can create a more professional and polished wardrobe for a real career. Don't get me wrong, there are still a lot of pieces in my closet that I absolutely love, and plan on holding on to for a while. I'm not going to throw away my entire closet just yet. I just need to let go of certain items that scream "I am a student!" and swap them for pieces that scream "I am ready to take on the world!"

In many ways, I feel this year is about reinventing myself and revising habits. I know many people criticize this because it makes me look like I am a chameleon or fake, or insecure, but I would argue that this process is making me dig deeper into understanding my personality better. I think my student wardrobe has been heavily influenced by pop culture (TV shows, magazines, other people, etc.) which is neither a bad thing nor a good thing. Now it's just time for me to rely more on how I see myself. It's time for me to get out of my rut and start exploring my new style interests. If you feel like you're kind of in a rut, just jump right out of it and be bold enough to change it up. I understand that it ca seem a bit daunting at first, but the more freedom you allow yourself to just explore new styles and get a better feel for what you feel most confident in. Have fun playing with clothes and accessories.


That's all for today. It's okay to play.

XOXO
Chloe

Friday, July 29, 2016

Tips For Saving More Money

Hello again! I apologize for being so absent these days. It is definitely a struggle to keep this blog updated and fresh without getting so distracted with summer relaxation and work. One of my favorite parts of summer break is having the time to look at new styles and fashion and also work on perfecting my own wardrobe. I've cleaned out my closet and got rid of a lot of different things that I no longer wear or love, so now the fun part is finding new clothes. However, my mission is to not break the bank. I am here today to share some of my new tips for saving some extra dollars when it comes to shopping.

1.) Think about using a resale app such as DePop (no, I am NOT sponsored by any company or brand to share this. It is COMPLETELY my own opinion) 
There are so many apps and websites that allow you to sell the clothes you no longer love or wear regularly.
***In order to have the most fun shopping for your new clothes, it helps to completely clean out your closet and get rid of everything you don't use. ***
Just search the internet and app store and you will definitely see a wide array of options for selling your clothes. You can earn some extra cash and that's always fun. Sometimes sites and places like ThredUp or Plato's Closet, or any consignment store or  can rip you off. They won't give us as much money as you could get from selling your own stuff by yourself (after all, YOU set the prices, NOT some random person who doesn't actually know the true worth of your clothing)

2.) ALWAYS shop from the sale section first. 
The first thing you should do when you walk into a store is to go directly to the sale section. Even if you absolutely love what is displayed at the front, it will always go on sale later. Just be patient. I hate knowing that I spent much more money on the exact same piece just because I was impatient and paranoid. It's so fun to see how many dollars you can save just by exploring the racks of sales and clearance items. Just be patient. Things do go on sale. You can also try to sign up for a store's email list so that you will be notified when a sale is coming up soon and you can get ready to discover some great deals.

3.) Shop Wholesale Retailers/Websites  
I found this awesome site called SheIn.com (and no, I am NOT sponsored or paid to mention this) This site sells clothes, shoes, and accessories wholesale. You may have to wait a little bit longer to receive your items but it is absolutely worth it. It is significantly much cheaper and it is the same clothes sold at department stores or other retailers. At SheIn.com, the prices are unbeatable AND you can get FREE standard shipping. (Expedited shipping is about $2 WHAT?!) I cannot believe how much money  =I have saved by shopping wholesale instead of going to regular stores at the mall.

4.) Outlet Malls/Factory Stores
Outlet malls and factory stores are so cool. Sure, some of the styles are from last season, and of course, there is always a huge crowd of people (sometimes elbowing and pushing/shoving each other)  not to mention the long lines. However, if you just brave it out, you will find amazing deals. I personally love stores like J.Crew, GAP, and Ralph Lauren. They can be quite pricey and it's hard to rationalize buying them. I found that the factory stores are ridiculously well priced and the clothes are still wonderful. Just try to be brave, and see if you come home with some beautiful clothes at a fraction of the cost.

Well, those are my tips for now. I hope you have a blast while picking out some gorgeous pieces. feel free to let me know if these tips either worked for you or not. (I will NOT be offended if they didn't work for you. Everybody has different opinions and ways of doing things.) Enjoy the day!!!!

XOXO
Chloe

Friday, May 6, 2016

The Real You

Happy Friday! Welcome back to my blog! I am wrapping up my final week of my junior year of college! I am so excited for summer break. This may be my last post for a little while since I will be very busy in the coming days and weeks. Today's topic is something I've been thinking about a lot lately. Obviously, I love beauty and fashion. It's a great way to feel more confident while showing off your unique and fun personality. For me, it's just fun to play with makeup, hair, and clothes and enjoy being a girl. What I am not so crazy about is when girls find themselves needing to use makeup, fashion, and other beauty routes in order to make themselves more attractive to either men or other girls. They use it as a way to portray someone who isn't really them, but they think that more makeup and more revealing and attention-grabbing clothes will automatically make a boy fall in love with them and then other girls will envy them. Or they damage their already gorgeous hair just for the sake of standing out, hoping for more friends and likes on Instagram. Ladies, as fun as makeup, hair, and fashion are, they do not define you. You are so much more than the labels on your clothes or the amount of makeup in your collection. Please forgive me for sounding morbid, but at your funeral, no one is going to stand up and talk about what clothes you wore or how crazy your hair was. People remember you for your cheerful disposition, your big heart, your work ethic, and the way you treated others around you. Just because you wear lots of makeup, have neon hair with unicorns and feathers in it and wear designer clothes, that really doesn't matter. Have something real about you. Have a level of authenticity about you that makes someone really notice how truly special you are. It's okay if you feel like skipping makeup for a couple of days. You don't have to feel pressured to be absolutely perfect. Don't let people make you feel self-conscious about choosing to be more "you". You are all gorgeous and have something completely special about just you. No one else can be you. 

XOXO
Chloe 

Friday, April 29, 2016

Your Skin Needs Love

Welcome back to my blog, everyone! Congratulations on getting through another week and making it to Friday! Today's post is on skin care and my plea for your to make a pledge to be gentle to your skin.

1.) Wash your face twice a day: I am amazed by how many people only wash their face once a day at most. Not only does washing your face feel good but it also helps prevent acne and skin irritation. It helps pores stay clear and removes excess oils, sweat, and makeup.
2.) Remove ALL traces of makeup EVERY day: One of the worst crimes you could ever commit against your face is sleeping with makeup on. I understand how tempting it can be to just skip removing makeup and instead putting on comfy PJs and slipping into a nice, comfy bed after a long day. But makeup ultimately leads to clogged pores and breakouts. Plus, I found stains on my pillowcases when I've skipped the makeup remover and it's another annoying side effect to my laziness.
3.) Exfoliate once a week: This not only feels great afterwards, but it helps remove dead skin cells and gives you softer, younger-looking skin that has a nice healthy glow to it. I know a lot of people with sensitive skin think they should not exfoliate because it could possibly irritate their skin. I also have dry and sensitive skin. I have to be super careful with what I put on and how I treat my skin, but I've actually found that exfoliating weekly has helped my skin be less reactive, softer, and feel less itchy or uncomfortable.
4.) Moisturize generously: After removing makeup, exfoliating, and thoroughly washing your face, make sure to use moisturizer right after. This is self-explanatory and really helps your skin stay healthy and look and feel amazing. In the morning, be sure to use sunscreen even if it is cloudy or snowy outside. There is always a chance of UV radiation. You can never be too safe when it comes to preventing damage from the sun.
5.) Drink plenty of water: Water helps flush out toxins from within your body and can really help clear up your skin. There are so many other benefits to staying properly hydrated, but who doesn't love clear skin?

I hope this helps either clear up your skin or helps maintain the skin you have right now. You can never be too careful about how you treat your skin. What you do now, really affects how your face looks in the future. It is definitle worth taking extra time each day both in the morning and at night to make sure your face is clean, fresh and hydrated. Your soft, younger-lookng and radiant skin will thank you.

XOXO
Chloe

Friday, April 22, 2016

Two New Ways To Style Scarves


Hello everyone! Welcome back to my blog! Today I have attached a couple of photos to show your my new favorite ways to tie/wear a scarf. I love scarves so much and they've been very useful for cooler days in Chicago this Spring. 
The two styles I am sharing are meant for open-ended scarves. I do have a few ways to style infinity scarves. Maybe another day I will get around to making a different post on that. These two are easy to learn and I like them because they are quite different ad unique. It's nice to have a fun print on your scarf but ultimately how you style and tie your scarves can either make or break your outfit. Different ties complement different styles. The first way works best with preppy outfits. The bow adds an added level of sophistication. The second way is more versatile and can work great for both dressier and casual outfits. I suggest experimenting and playing around with the scarves you own and explore which colors and prints work best for you. It can be a lot of fun to play with your accessories. Learning how to tie your scarves in different ways can also help make an old scarf look new or can add and extra layer of interest to your outfits. You do not need to spend a crazy amount of money to look amazing and feel great. Have fun and have a wonderful week!

XOXO
Chloe
This knot is called the Madison Knot. It works very well with scarves that are more preppy
and have either a herringbone or equestrian print.
Place the scarf on your neck. Cross the ends over each other to create a single knot as if you were starting to the your shoe.
The create two loops with the ends and tie them into a bow
This is a fun twist on the classic loop.
Fold the scarf in half so it creates a loop on one end and the ends of the scarf are on the other end
Put the scarf on your neck and thread one end through the loop.
The tie the two ends together.

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Spring Cleaning For Your Closet

Hi everyone! I love that the weather is starting to get mild and pleasant. I am definitely a warm-weather girl. Sunshine makes me so incredibly happy and it's always fun for me to start wearing my other clothes. As I start to pull out my spring/summer wardrobe, this week I began to freshen up my closet by simply getting rid of clothes I either don't like anymore or things I no longer wear. It's fun to shop and get ideas on Pinterest for style inspiration but that part cannot happen unless you toss some gear. Here's how I started to declutter. (I am still in the process of decluttering and cleaning out my closet)

1.) If anything is damaged beyond repair: Just throw it out. I have been able to use my sewing skills and fix minor issues such as lost buttons on items I absolutely love and cannot handle parting with. But some clothes are too stained, too ripped or zippers that don't work need to be thrown out. Truth is, those items will never be worn or they won't e worn as much as they should. Why bother keeping them if you can't even wear them?

2.) If you bought it years ago and still haven't worn it: Give it to someone who will love it and appreciate it. I am guilty of buying clothes thinking that I will wear them all the time and then realize, I don't really like them as much as I thought I did. My friends at school and I love to swap clothes we barely wear and trade. It's fun to trade clothes and it's also free. A nice perk of college is being able to share your clothes with your friends. Win-win

3.) Old clothes that are just there for memory: Time to close the gate to memory lane. If you are in college, just bite the bullet and toss your high school stuff. Honestly, it looks silly to walk around your college campus wearing your high school shirt. Also throw away costumes you wore to that halloween party from two years ago. You will NOT need it in the future and it's just wasting valuable closet space.

4.) Things that have lost their other half (i.e.. mittens, socks, earrings, etc): I always try to convince myself that the missing sock will magically appear or that other earring will magically float in front of my face and all will be good. That is a classic example of reality versus expectation. You may think you will reunite the pair, but reality is, that doesn't really happen. Count it lost, how it out, and move on. It's like a break up. He ain't coming back for you, sweetie. Just let it go and find a new pair if sock, earrings, gloves/mittens to love.

Spring cleaning can be a long process but don't give up. Getting rid of clothes and accessories you don't love anymore or need truly frees up closet space.

XOXO
Chloe

Friday, April 8, 2016

March Favorites

Hi everyone! I'm back and ready to dive more into fashion and beauty with all of you!

Since it is now April, I am going to go over some of my favorite items and products that i used most in March for each broad category.

Hair: Herbal Essences dry shampoo
This has been a life savor for days when I simply don't have time to wash my hair. Super long and thick hair is fun to have but it can be an absolute nightmare to wash, condition, and wait fro an eternity for it to dry. This is a quick and easy remedy for days when I just need to run out of the house as quickly as possible so I won't be late for class. I like Herbal Essences. I've tried a lot of different brands and companies but man of them have a chemical smell to them. They work to stop oiliness, but it smells awful, so Herbal Essences stops oily hair AND makes it smell wonderful.

Makeup: Urban Decay Make-Up Setting Spray
This is an absolutely awesome product. There's nothing worse than mastering the perfect face in the morning, only to check it in the mirror in the afternoon and find that all of it has faded. After I finish my makeup routine, I spray this on my face, and all my eye makeup, blush, and lipstick stays in place until I take it off at night. It doesn't clog pores and it is very lightweight so it's definitely worth a try

Clothing: Cardigans
I hate Chicago weather. I hate cold. Layers are an essential for me. I am always cold and could never leave the house without a sweater. Cardigans help any outfit look more polished and put together and they keep me warm so I am not miserable in class. I have so many different types of cardigans, but I seriously couldn't live in Chicago without them.

Shoes: Oxfords
I love Oxfords for so many reasons, but I think the primary reason why they are a no-brainer, go-to shoe for me is because of their versatility and preppy look to them. They can pair with skirts, jeans, trousers, and even dresses. I like them better than sneakers because it helps give a classier and polished edge to any outfit and make an outfit go from "I look like I just rolled out and bed" to  "Comfy but still professional and clean".

Accessories: Watch
I think a good watch is an essential for anyone's overall look. Sure a cell phone can tell time, but a nice looking watch sets someone apart as professional and put-together. I hate pulling out my phone just to check time. It feels tacky to me, and having a watch is so much easier than trying to find my phone within my giant bag. My watch was a gift from my mom and I love that it is a neutral color so it goes with anything I wear. It's never too early to start practicing dressing for success.

XOXO
Chloe

Friday, April 1, 2016

The Ultimate Win-Win Situation

Hello, to all my gorgeous readers! I'm so sorry I missed you last week. I got caught up in a lot of work for school but now I am back! I have fallen deeply in love with an amazing company called Pura Vida Bracelets. They are based out of La Jolla, California, USA and it was started by two guys who took a trip to Costa Rica, met a some talented artisans who made bracelets, took those bracelets back to America, and sold them to people, and decided to give back to artisans in Costa Rica. Pure Vida means "pure life" and the company is all about giving back to not only artisans in Costa Rica, but also doing their best to support non-profit charities and organizations. Just about nay cause you can think of, Pura Vida most likely has aa bracelet that will give back money to them.

If bracelets are not quite your thing, you can also purchase water bottles, jewelry holders, clutches/bags, hair ties, and clothing. They also sell anklets too if that's your type of thing. I love that each bracelet and anklet are handmade by artisans in Costa Rica. It's important to me that we do our best to support artists and individuals rather than only relying on factories and machines. There's just something extra special and genuine/authentic about hand made items.

If you're reading this and are interested, I have some great news! I am now an official Pura Vida Rep and I would love to hook you up with some awesome and fun goodies. Go to http://www.puravidabracelets.com to start shopping, once you added some goodies to your shopping cart, when it asks if you have a coupon code, type in CHLOEPARK20 to receive 20% off any item. You can also use this code in the future. This is NOT a one-time offer. If you live in the United State, there is also free standard shipping, s no more dealing with ridiculous, overpriced, overrated shipping and handling fees. And the items are all reasonably priced, so once you enter in my code for 20% off, it's super cheap and each bracelet purchased gives a full-time job to an artisan in Costa Rica. You get pretty accessories, artisans get full time jobs, money, and support, and you also get discounts from yours truly! It's the ultimate win-win situation. Happy shopping and please join the Pura Vida Movement today! It's a decision you will not regret!

XOXO
Chloe

http://www.puravidabracelets.com
Coupon Code: CHLOEPARK20

Friday, March 18, 2016

Sun Safety

Happy Friday everyone! I hope this week has been kind to you and you are enjoying yourselves. Today's topic is on the importance of sunscreen.

I am currently sitting outside embracing all of the lovely rays of warm sunshine. I love the sun. I would lay out all day if I could. However, the sun isn't always kind to us. Even if you have darker skin, it is essential to protect it from UV damage. No one is immune to sun damage, and once that damage starts, it can never be reversed. Sunblock also helps prevent more freckles and sun spots from developing and it will help your skin look and feel younger and more smooth. Who doesn't want soft skin that is radiant, fresh, and protected?

Here are some of my favorite tips for protecting your skin:
1.) Cover up. Whether it is a broad rimmed hat and/or a loose layer over your swimsuit, your skin will thank you. Aim for lighter colors as it doesn't absorb as much sun as black and other darker colors.
2.) Use sunblock that has and SPF of at least 30 or greater and reapply often, especially after swimming, sweating, or if it's been a couple of hours since you last applied
3.) Find a spot to lay out that has at least some shade. You don't need to hide under a blanket, but shading some of your body away from the sun doesn't hurt.
4.) If you are like me and burn easily, one of the best remedies I've found is aloe vera gel. You can get it at stores like Walgreens or CVS. It helps soothe irritated skin and feels very refreshing. I love it.

Well that's it for today. Enjoy the rest of your week and be safe!
XOXO
Chloe

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Spring Clothing Must-Haves

Hello everyone! Friday's going to be a super crazy hectic day so I'm posting this a bit early. This week's topic is my clothing must-haves for Spring. I am so excited about the prospect of the weather (hopefully) getting a bit milder and more delightful. Keep your fingers crossed for Chicago. Nice weather is an extremely rare thing in this city. So let's get started on my list!

1.) Denim jacket: I love my denim jacket. It's the perfect weight for days when it's still a bit cool but it's hard to overheat in it. It easily goes with just about any outfit and it can be super versatile. I think any color denim can work. I personally love the faded/more lived in look, but a darker shade can also help make an outfit look more polished and put together. If you are wearing jeans, make sure your jeans and jacket are not the same color of denim. Denims that match are a big no-no in my opinion.

2.) Lightweight scarves: These make adding color and fun int your outfits super easy. Now's the time to play with all those fun bright colors and patterns. Infinity scarves can be nice, but I personally like open-ended scarves more because I feel like there is a lot more versatility with how you can tie them and style them. More options=happier me

3.) Sperry or any other type of boat shoe: I get so excited when the weather finally gets warm enough to pull out my Sperry Topsiders. They go great with skinny jeans and can make an outfit feel a bit more preppy.

Have an amazing day and enjoy yourself!

XOXO
Chloe

Friday, March 4, 2016

Why is makeup so controversial nowadays?

Hello, everyone! I hope your week has been going well. I'm definitely ready for the weekend!

Lately on my Facebook, there seems to be a lot of drama regarding makeup. We're in this phase of #NoMakeupSelfies which is all fine well and good except that now women are getting bashed and criticized for choosing to wear makeup. They're labeled as fake, shallow, deceitful, and insecure. What the hell?! If you're one of the ladies who choose to be natural and not wear makeup, good for you. It's a personal choice and honestly, I admire your confidence. But bashing other women who decide to wear makeup is never acceptable. There's nothing moral about makeup. Just because someone wears makeup, she is not a slut, a fake, or shallow. She's a woman who is free to make her own decisions without getting harassed.

I am honestly caught in the middle of the debate because there are days when I opt out of makeup (typically on the weekends) yet I don't know if I could do makeup-free everyday. There's something special about putting makeup on for me. I love having a few minutes to take care of myself and make myself feel good. I'm not saying i feel worthless without makeup, but sometimes it's just fun to doll yourself up and unleash your inner diva.

I guess what I trying to say, is stop judging other people. Cheers to the ladies who rock those #NoMakeupSelfies and cheers to those who simply love the joys of feeling extra pretty. It's not a competition about morality. It's just makeup. It's really not a big deal. Just be true to yourself and ignore the haters. And for goodness sake, stop making every single thing a controversy. We already have enough drama in this life.

Peace
-Chloe

Sunday, February 21, 2016

An Open Letter to (the soon-to-be) 21-Year Old Me



So I know it's not Friday but I'm posting this early because this week is going to be crazy with schoolwork and now's the best time to write. My birthday is on Wednesday and yesterday I was reflecting back on the past years, and what I would like myself to know/remember as I embark on my 21st year on earth, so I wrote a letter to myself because letters are simply how I best articulate my feelings. It might seem weird to you, but that's just how I work. Here it goes..

Happy 21st birthday! You can now enjoy being an actual adult. It wasn't too long ago since you were playing with Barbies and singing the wonder pets theme song. I hope this year is a time when you can learn more about the woman God has created you to be. Here is some advice as you embark on the next chapter of life.  

1.) Never ever forget that you are unique and beautiful no matter what anyone says about you. Your worth is never based on a number on a scale or how many calories you ingest, or how many followers on Instagram you have. Always be authentic to yourself and never change just to make others like you more. The person God has created you to be is far more beautiful than anyone you could ever pretend to be. A beautiful heart and spirit is ultimately the most important thing. 

2.) Work hard and don't slack off. If you want something, you have to earn it. Nothing is ever handed to you on a silver platter. Although culture says things should be easy and take minimal effort, go the extra mile in all you do. If you don't have time to do your very best, then why are you even bothering? Doing the bare minimum never works out. Don't give up just because it gets too hard. A woman with a strong work ethic is sexy. 

3.) But don't work too hard without playing hard. While you are young, be carefree. Enjoy laughing with friends and doing silly things. This is the time to kick back and enjoy life before there's too many not-so-fun responsibilities. It's okay to make mistakes. It's how you learn. You are such a perfectionist and a go-getter but sometimes that limits you and is your downfall. You don't have to be so type A. It's okay to let loose.

4.) It's okay to occasionally spoil yourself. Make time for you. You always seem to have a busy schedule and it's important to slow down and unwind. If you don't take care of yourself, who will? And if you really love those shoes, stop obsessing about them and buy them. What the hell, it's a pair of shoes, it's not as serious as a heart transplant. Do something nice for yourself. Eat chocolate, take a hot bath with a glass of wine, or just stay in wearing your favorite pajamas, watching Netflix, and eating nachos. (Netflix and nachos won't fail you)

5.) Embrace all relationships God gives you. Although there will be people who only want to use you and take advantage of you, also know that there are many people you will meet (or already know) who are more than willing to walk beside you as you go through life. They will celebrate your happiest days but also cry with you when your heart feels like it's been shattered in a million pieces. Cherish those friends Be the best friend you possibly can towards them. Be gracious, loving, supportive and loyal. Choose people who inspire you to be a better person and who treat everyone with kindness instead of being catty and cruel. 

This next year has so much potential to be one of the greatest years of your life. Always know that your calling in life is to be a source of joy and love to others. You are smart and have a lot to contribute to this world. You have so much light to share and a sparkly personality that can be so endearing when you aren't taking yourself so seriously. You have such a zest for life and an adventurous and cheerful spirit. Here's to another amazing year with incredible people and many memories to make! 

Friday, February 19, 2016

College Beauty/Fashion Essentials

Happy Friday! I hope this week has been kind to you all. Today's topic is my list of college beauty/fashion essentials. To all my fellow college ladies, let me know what some of your "go-to" items are.

1.) Makeup wipes: Although the best way to make sure your face stays clear and healthy is by washing it well twice a day, sometimes I'm that lazy girl who just can't even. These are a life saver for those nights when you come home late and just want to jump into bed.
2.) Dy Shampoo: This is something I feel like I use almost everyday. It helps absorb any excess oils and it makes my hair smell fresh and clean. I usually wash my hair every other day, so this is something I use for days when it's not hair washing day.
3.) Solid Colored Converse: I think converse are arguably the most versatile shoes ever created. I wear them with dresses, jeans, skirts, and leggings and they never fail to be extremely comfy and cute. I recommend buying converse in a plain, solid color so it can be even easier to work with. I have a pair in navy blue and certainly well-loved.
4.) Black cardigan or blazer: I love blazers and cardigans because they can make any outfit look even more put together and polished. It's great for those morning when you've missed your alarm and are running late for class. (You may sense a theme here. I've slept through my alarm so many times it's not even funny.)
5.) Gym Shoes: Staying active in college is so hard especially when you're exhausted from school, and would rathe stay in with Netflix and in my case nachos But keeping yourself moving is the best way to boost your immune system so there's less sick days. Also, "Runner's High" is a very real thing and it never hurts to be in an extremely cheerful mood. Your roommate(s) and friends will thank you.

Have a fabulous day!
XOXO
Chloe

Friday, February 12, 2016

The True "5 Minute Face"

Happy Friday everyone! I hope this past week has been treating you well. I am trying to stay up-to-date on my blogs by posting every Friday. Let's see how it goes! Today's topic is on the 5 minute face. And I'm not kidding it actually does take five minutes or less, not like the other tutorials out there. My theory on makeup is that it should be ultimately used to enhance your already gorgeous features not cover up or try to look like someone you're not. Makeup can help conceal small blemishes but you shouldn't rely solely on makeup to feel beautiful. You are already gorgeous as it in your own unique way. Seriously, just have fun.

Step One: To begin, I always make sure I wash my face very well and use moisturizer and sunscreen. You cannot skip this. It protects your skin and keeps it healthy. You also prevent acne, redness, dryness, and other common annoying ailments.
Step Two: Use BB cream/concealor to help with any redness, darkness or any other blemishes. I like putting BB cream right under my eyes to make them look brighter.
Step Three: I use white eyeshadow under my eyes and in the inside corners of my eyes to keep them bright, and make them appear more awake
Step Four: Curl your eyelashes as this helps make your eyes look more open and awake. Then swipe on some mascara. No need to put on multiple layers or coats as this leads to clumping and it honestly looks tacky instead of classy. 
Step Five: Blush
Step Six: Lipstick or lipgloss 

Then you are done and look polished yet have the minimalist look. It's never a good idea to look like you're wearing lots and lots of makeup. You can always play with colors and shimmer as long as you stick to the rule that very little goes a very very long way.. There are definitely times that may call for some sparkly blue eyeliner or sultry smokey eyes so I am not against them but everyday makeup is essential for going to work, school or running errands. It's also a quick way to look put together without being in a huge rush to get out the door. 

Make time for yourself to get ready and not feel rushed. We live in a society where everything needs to be on-the-go but making sure you have ample time for yourself in the morning is such a great way to start the day on a positive note instead of being cranky that you were in rush. 

Have a wonderful day and enjoy!

Friday, February 5, 2016

Thrifting

Hello beautiful people!

Sorry for being so behind. I truly need to work on my blogging schedule. But I have returned with some (hopefully) helpful tips and advice about all things fashion, beauty, life, etc.

Today's topic is something I'm very excited about... Thrifting
Yes, I know some of you are probably crinkling your nose and thinking "what's so great about wearing other people's old, smelly clothes? That's gross." While others of you also share my excitement over thrift stores. It's cheap, it's fun. It's practical.

I love shopping in thrift stores. Yes, some stores are a little sketchy in terms of cleanliness/organization and the selection of "quality" clothes but I've found some really great places. Plato's Closet is one of my favorites. They sell "nicer" clothes than your average Goodwill, meaning more name brands and most of their clothes are still in style. I also really love the online thrift store ThredUp. Like Plato's Closet they also have a ton of name brands and they even sell designer pieces as well as children's clothes, maternity clothes, shoes, and handbags. The only thing is they do not sell men's clothes. Maybe one day, but we'll see. I love the idea of "one's (wo)man trash is another (wo)man's treasure" It's nice to be able to look adorable and not empty your entire wallet out. ThredUp makes sure the clothes are in like-new condition and they are extremely picky about what they accept. Everything on the site is still very much in-style and from the past five years or less.

To all my readers who think thrift shopping is gross and the best way to contract diseases and cooties.
1.) Please don't think that only poor people shop at thrift stores. Sure, there aren't celebrities who will endorse them, but thrifting is really just another way to save some money instead of spending more money than necessary.
2.) Just wash the clothes really well and make sure you disinfect them. Then all the potential yuckies are killed and gone.

For both thrifting lover and thrifting skeptic alike: Here's how I make sure my clothes are clean and disinfected.
1.) As soon as I get my clothes, they go straight into quarantine aka in a bag by themselves away from everything else until I have enough time to start the initiation process of being welcome with open arms into my closet.
2.) Soak them in SCALDING hot water with baby shampoo and some PineSol or another similar disinfectant
3.) Once the water is touchable, I put them in the washer and wash them with HOT water
4. Then they go into the dryer on HIGH heat.
5.) Bye-bye yuckies! Welcome to your new home... the closet

*No matter where you buy your clothes, ALWAYS wash them before wearing. Fancy department stores can also carry bed bugs, bacteria, and other not-so-lovely things because many people have tried on your "brand-new" clothes from stores. Victoria's Secret allows customers to return underwear. You can't tell me that's 100% sanitary. And yet many people immediately wear their "new clothes" without washing them first. Yikes! Always be safe not sorry.

Enjoy your new finds! You're fabulous! No one can take that away from you.

XOXO
Chloe