Sunday Funday Giveaway with Target!

Happy Sunday love bugs! I hope you all had a fabulous week! We had such a fun time with our recent #SundayFundayWithCCC Sephora and Ulta Beauty giveaway that I decided to do one for this week for you and your BFF again but this time for a Target gift card!

Here’s how to enter:

Target Giveaway Photoshop

1. You must follow @candycoatedclosets on Instagram. 2. Like and repost the main giveaway image on Instagram with #SundayFundayWithCCC. 3. Leave a comment on this post tagging your BFF that will win with you. 4. You can enter up to 5 times but only if you enter with a new friend each time you tag. 5. No giveaway/spam profiles & profile must be set to public by the end of the contest so I can see your posts.You both must be following me by the end of the contest in order to win.

Open internationally; 18+, to enter. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received.

Contest runs from Sunday, May 22, 2016 at 10:59pm EST and ends Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 11:59pmest. Winners will be announced within 48 hours of the contest ending.

Good luck love bugs! 😘

xoxo1

Steal Style Cues from Captain America: Civil War

By my own admission, I am a true fashion and beauty girl. I mean who else would think about gifting a bottle of Tom Ford's Black Orchid to Tony Stark when Black Widow asked him if he brought a suit with him. And of course, his response is a Tom Ford three-piece, two button suit. I mean, who else is going to appreciate that?! Well that's normally what I'm doing. While my boyfriend is to my right comic book fangeek'ing out by seeing some of his favorite characters on the big screen, I'm studying the fashion and beauty in the film.

For example, have you ever wondered about the power of a good pair of aviators? In the film, Falcon and Captain America are both spotted in the airport wearing military aviators. If you haven't seen the film, here is a sneak peek for you.

BERLIN, GERMANY - AUGUST 10: Chris Evans attends the set of Captain America, Civil War, during filming at Potsdamer Platz on August 10, 2015 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Ben Brittain Cohen/GC Images)

Steal his look with the Ray-Ban Polarized Original Aviator 58mm Sunglasses (left). Ray-Ban Original Aviator 58mm Polarized Sunglasses (right).

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Believe it or not, Black Widow's look is what drew me in. I love the "everyday modern girl" look that she is styled in even though we both know better than that. In the opening fight scene of the movie, we see her chasing down the typical villains in a pair of brown laced riding boots, blue denim jeans and a trench mid-waist jacket.

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Steal her look with the Frye Melissa Tall Lace riding boot

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xoxo1

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The Makeup Show NYC 2016 Blogger Preview/Backstage and Beyond Workshop Recap

I can't even begin to tell you how long my day was. I've been on my feet running around for about 14 hours and I think all I ate today were pretzels. Pretzels, Ginger Ale and Twizzlers and now that I'm finally sitting down to give you the recap of the day all I can do is sit here and smile. I wouldn't have it any other way.  Today, was the start of The Makeup Show NYC 2016. If you're following me on my social media channels, then you've been able to keep up with some of the activities of the day. If not, let's jump right into this recap shall we?

I am an ambassador for The Makeup Show so today, I was assisting the amazing...no, no AMAZING James Vincent and Orlando Santiago in their workshop Backstage and Beyond: Understanding Fashion Week Makeup. It was an 8 hour seminar with both instructors that was very intimate, hands on and educational. We spoke with James about his background and experience in working Fashion Weeks across the world and he gave us the behind the scenes exclusives about what you need to become a successful fashion runway artist. Even though I am more on the editorial coverage side of Fashion Week, I was able to take a way major highlights that I am able to use in furthering my own career.

During the hands on workshop, the makeup artist were given a challenge to create the perfect bold red lip. If I had to pick one tip as my favorite tip to share with you, it would be the one product that both instructors would not stop raving about - the Make Up For Ever Aqua Seal ($21).

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Aqua Seal is a liquid converter that instantly transforms your favorite makeup products into waterproof and smudge-proof formulas without changing the texture. They both literally took one drop of this product and mixed into a red lip tar from OCC and it did not budge once applied. And again, I watched as they mixed one drop into a foundation by Kevyn Aucoin and what is normally described as a "too heavy and too thick" foundation was now applying like butter. So needless to say, I will be picking this up from the MUFE booth tomorrow. If you're not going to The Makeup Show, you can order a bottle here.

Next, we have the press blogger preview where we get chance to see what's what at the show before it officially opens. James Vincent, the Director of Artistry for The Makeup Show, gave us the highlights on keynote speakers, educational seminars, the brands attending and some of the new products that are launching this weekend. Here is a sneak peek at the gift bag that I received - products from Kevyn Aucoin, Kat Von D, Smashbox, OCC, Tarte Cosmetics, Eve Pearl, Naked Cosmetics, The Body Shop, Make Up For Ever, MustaeV USA, Kett Cosmetics, Embryolisse and so much more!

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Of course, I'll dive in more over the next few days, but for now, stay tuned to all of the coverage on TMS here!

xoxo1

A Kiss of Rose Gold - Rose Pompon by Annick Goutal

I can almost hear the sarcasm in Miranda Priestly’s voice as I open the panoply of spring floral fragrances that recently hit my desk. “Florals? For spring? Revolutionary!”

I guess the same can be said for floral fragrances that are centered around rose notes. It’s been one of the biggest trends in perfumery this year - harvesting rose notes and predominately using them in the fragrance formula - but I’m always left thinking…how creative can a perfumer be when there are a countless number of debutante rose, wild rose or garden rose fragrances already available?

When I opened the box for Rose Pompon by Annick Goutal, the dewy and faint rose accords took me on a journey; a sensory refuge - somewhere that I haven't been since I was a little girl. You see, when I was younger, I was fascinated with hybrid tea roses. My mother used to take me on trips to the New York Botanical Garden so that I could learn more about the various textures and two-toned ombré color combinations - the same thing that made my heart flutter when I was first presented with the pink-blushed ombré packaging of Rose Pompon.

It also didn't help that two of my favorite childhood shows had roses as a major focal point in their storyline. Do you remember Tuxedo Mask from Sailor Moon? To this day, I still get butterflies in my stomach when I see his red rose fly across the screen - a symbol of love and justice - as he arrives to save the Sailor Scouts.

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And then one of my all-time favorite Disney movies, Beauty and the Beast, that showcased an enchanted, magical rose floating in a glass dome.

Rose Pompon Inspo
Rose Pompon Inspo

These flashbacks were held in the seat of my memory and was seemingly unlocked by a quick sniff and intense look at this lighthearted floral rose fragrance. These memories are why I came to associate Rose Pompon as a unique sensory and emotional eau de toilette that exudes passion, fun and love.

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Rose Pompon fuses together top notes of summertime raspberries and blackcurrant that mingle together with spicy pink pepper for a flirty opening punch. Its heart notes open up to the sweet natural smelling essences of bulgarian rose, peonies and taïf rose, which exudes a joyful and sweet smelling innocence within the fragrance. For its final trail, the fragrance settles into a warm and velvet cloud of cedar, patchouli and white musk that adds depth and warmth to the scent. 

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The first thing that you notice about Rose Pompon in comparison to other rose fragrances is the packaging. The ombré pink-blushed bottle stands out with a fine double cord wrapped around its neck with a rose pompon pendant. I adore this simple but chic twist to the bottle design because it is adding a little bit more magic to my vanity.

The sprayer is a standard spritzer that is very powerful. I normally like to wear about 4 sprays of a fragrance on my hot spots but with Rose Pompon, I am able to spray two on my wrists and it noticeably lasts for 8-10 hours on me.

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It is available in a 3.4oz bottle on Annick Goutal's website and I cannot recommend another fragrance that would be a perfect gift for Mother's Day or even for a young girl as an introduction to her first chic and flirty floral rose scent.

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xoxo1
xoxo1

How to Get Naturally Glowing Skin

Naturally Glowing Skin: It's one of those phrases that gets thrown around so much in the beauty industry but do you know that the easiest way to get the most natural looking glow is to take care of your skin? As easy as that sounds, taking proper care of your skin requires a little bit of effort on your part. Yesterday, I was talking to my boyfriend about his lack of using lotion. It baffles me that he can moisturize his hands and feet but neglects the middle part of his torso. His response to me: "when shorts season comes around, I'll make sure to lotion my legs". After preaching about the need for daily moisture, my face went to emoticon-25516_960_720 and I left it alone. He would learn one day.

Later that night, we were at a Game of Thrones premiere party and [SPOILER ALERT] the final scene with Melisandre aging with her skin sagging really threw him for a loop. "That can't be her, she looks like she belongs with Smeagol."

Clip of Game of Thrones scene

I laughed and immediately looked over to him and said, "well take that as your warning because that is what happens when you don't moisturize." The look on his face was priceless but I wasn't the only one who took note of that hidden message from GoT. A few hours  later, Clarins' Instagram page won the internet and posted this meme.narsI almost fell to the floor when I saw it pop up in my timeline but you know what, they're right. I spend at least 15 minutes every morning and night on my skincare routine. If I'm in the mood for a full spa treatment, it can take at least an hour. It sounds like a lot of work but by maintaining a proper skincare routine, you won't have to rely on using foundations and concealers everyday. Another bonus is that by taking preventative measures early on and establishing a healthy skincare routine, it will help to ward off wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and sagging.  Sounds worth it right? Here's what you want to do.

Start off by finding a skincare line that interests you. If you can, try heading into the department store or your local Sephora or Ulta for a quick consultation. Their skin care specialists can give you the background behind what's new and can advise you on the best products for your particular skin care concerns.IMG_7105 copy wateredI start with the One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Facial Cleanser because it washes away all of the dirt and dead skin without irritating my skin. The orange extract will soften your skin while the gentle silica microbeads will help to clear your pores, and the moringa seed extract purifies and refines your skin leaving it feeling refreshed. I absolutely recommend this is you have acne prone skin. IMG_7175 copy ccc IMG_7158 copy cccNext, I use the Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner. You can use any toner that fits into your routine to even out your skin tone, however, I would stay away from alcohol-based toners or toners that have heavy fragrant extracts which can irritate the skin. You should try to find a toner that is full of antioxidants, skin-repairing substances and cell awakening ingredients such as niacinamide.

I prefer to use the Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner because it brightens, smoothes, and balances my skin while helping to prevent the build-up of pore-clogging debris which can lead to acne. Also, I use this as an added step in caring for my hyperpigmentation. The Tamarind extract rids the skin of dry, flaky surface cells, while the White Nettle extract refines enlarged pores.

When applying your toner, remember that you want to dab or press the toner into your skin with a soft cotton ball or face pad. Do not make the mistake of swiping and dragging it across your face. IMG_7170 copy cccAfter letting the toner dry down for about a minute, I apply the Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate. I love using this as it has a high antioxidant-rich formula and contains a much higher concentration of active ingredients which helps to heal and smooth my skin. With this product, a little bit goes a long way so try using two pumps of it to start. Remember to apply this before your sunscreen and before your daytime or nighttime moisturizer.IMG_7163 copy cccFor my day moisturizer, I use the Multi-Active Day Cream. Even though I'm not 30...yet...I like to be pro-active about my skin care so any steps that I can take to ward off wrinkles is good for me! The multi-active day cream contains active plant ingredients that are combined to restore elasticity to the skin .IMG_7119 copy cccIMG_7189 copy cccAnd lastly, for my night moisturizer I use the Multi-Active Night Cream. Paired with my daytime moisturizer, this encourages skin renewal with the kiwi extract and helps to reduce the signs of wrinkles with the natural carb extract. IMG_7124 copy watered IMG_7190 copy wateredDon't forget about your lips - yes they need moisture too! I literally swear by the Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm. It took me forever to find a lip moisturizer that I could put on a night, sleep for 8 hours, and wake up with my lips still feeling soft and not chapped. This one contains essential rose wax to calm and protect your lips while Ceramide 3 hydrates and replenishes them. IMG_7091 copy cccI know this may seem like a lot to do but remember that the better condition that your skin is in, the better your makeup will apply and look throughout the day.

xoxo1

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BuzzFeed Article Makeup Photo Feature

Normally, I would put this in my "As Seen In/Featured In" section of the blog but when one of your photographs gets picked by a BuzzFeed editor to be featured in an upcoming article...well...let's just say that all of the OMG's make it worthy enough to have it's own blog post. Buzzfeed Post

Yes, that me and my lipstick #makeupporn product shot. The full article can be found here. Thank you so much for the photo feature Nina Mohan!

xoxo1

Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick Holiday Collection 2015

*Update: July 22, 2016 - This blog and I do not support Jeffree Star and/or Jeffree Star Cosmetics. This is my personal choice as I choose to feature and support brands that I believe in. I encourage you to search google for any relevant information on his brand if you would like to research his cosmetic line. Xoxo. - Cynira* Be warned before you look at this post. The new Jeffree Star Cosmetics liquid lipstick Holiday Collection might become your new obsession.

Candy Coated Closets Bundle Candy Coated Closets Bundle 2 Candy Coated Closets Bundle 3 IMG_2840Swatches in direct sunlight from left to right: Hoe Hoe Hoe, Mistletoe, Drug Lord, Doll Parts, Androgyny

First, let's take a closer look at the coveted Androgyny:

CandyCoatedCloset Androgyny Product CandyCoatedCloset Wand This is the best picture that I could get to capture the true color of Androgyny on my lips. The color is beautiful! It is an amazing mauve shade that's not too pink or too nude for women of color. It wears incredible well and is very soft on the lips. Now when I say it took me a while to capture the true color on my lips I say that because it's a very natural color on me and it's hard to pick up the mauve undertones in the picture.CandyCoatedCloset Androgyny 2CandyCoatedCloset Androgyny

Next, let's look at Hoe Hoe Hoe:

Candy Coated Closets Hoe Hoe Hoe BottleCandy Coated Closets Hoe Hoe Hoe WandThis liquid lipstick is a deep red with hints of metallic red and purple in it. In the pic on the bottom left, I tried to leave the focus from being straight on my lips and a different angle of lighting so you can get a better look at the sparkle from this lipstick. It's going to be great for holidays!

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Next is Doll Parts. This is a soft cool toned pink, more like a baby pink on my skin tone. I tried to shift the focus and lighting so you can see how it performs in the images to show the true color.

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Here, we have Mistletoe:

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Last, is Drug Lord:

Candy Coated Closets ProductCandy Coated Closets WandCandy Coated Closets Lip 2Candy Coated Closets Lip

xoxo1

The Beautiful Kiss of Death: Happy Halloween

Now I know that I made the title of this piece overly dramatic but come on...it's Halloween! The thing that I love about Halloween is that the make up gods come out to play! This is truly one of the few times of the year that you can stun everyone with your make up artistry skills and hey, if you're like me and just want to have fun, it's the perfect time to try out some new looks without looking crazy. So I decided to do some fun lip art! I tried my best to capture it for you guys by my lighting wanted to suck!

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To do this look, I used MakeupForever's black lipstick rouge artist intense in 50 and Violet Voss's glitter in Paige for the purple topcoat.

What fun make up looks did you guys try for Halloween?xoxo1

Say Hello to A Little Beauty - Becca Cosmetics Champagne Glow Palette

She's finally here! I have been stalking the Sephora website like a maniac waiting for the Becca Cosmetics Champagne Glow Palette to launch. I know they gave us a specific day and time (Tuesday, October 27 at 12:00pm EST) but you and I both know how friendly I've gotten with the refresh button - umm a new F5 button please. So I was at work Tuesday morning, with my eyes glued to my web browser because I wasn't going to miss this launch. Jaclyn Hill snapped (snapchat) a few days earlier that Becca told her that they only made close to 80,000 units of this palette and I freaked! 80,000 units is not a lot of product - especially during holiday season and hello, have you heard of the JacAttack? Yeah, so I was on it. And it's a good thing that I was because it launched early! I checked out around11:37 with my two new beauties on the way.

Let's take a look shall we...

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Candy Coated Closets 3 Can't you hear Stevie Wonder singing Isn't She Lovely right now?

This is a limited edition palette with 3 shimmering Skin Perfector pressed shades (0.084 oz each) in Pearl, Blushed Copper, and Champagne Pop x Jaclyn Hill. It's sold exclusively at Sephora and costs $34.00.

Pearl is a new beautiful luminizer in pale linen white. At first, I was a little weary of how this shade would perform on women of color but I saw a few Youtubers swatch the product and they sealed the deal for me. Champagne Pop which I've tried in the full size version is a soft white gold with pinky peach undertones and Blushed Copper is a beautiful warm copper luminizer that is infused with rose gold tones.

I will have more blog posts and features of me wearing the luminizers coming up but make sure you pick this up (at least one) before it sells out! Don't say that I didn't warn you.

xoxo1

Essence Inaugural Beauty Box Review: Soulful. Colorful. Beautiful.

First, can I tell you guys how much I missed you?! I'm so happy to be writing for my blog again! It's been such a crazy transition and adjustment over the past few months but you know that I'd never leave you for too long. Now back to business - you know everyone has a beauty box now right? I think it's great because it's the best way to try out new products and introduce new brands to the consumer. However, as a woman of color, a lot of the products that are curated for these beauty boxes aren't really done with us in mind - and I mean that with no shade at all. It's just having a certain skin tone; having different undertones; having a different "type" of hair, I need products that are really curated to women of color.

So I was very excited to hear about the news that Essence was coming out with an Essence Beauty Box that was specifically curated by a team of African-American women with African-American women in mind. These are editors who have years of experience in the fashion and hair industry so I immediately knew that I needed to jump on this.

So before we dive into this inaugural box, the subscription is $15 a month and there's three different subscription plans that you can choose from - you can do a monthly payment plan for $15 per box and you'll be charged monthly; you can do a 6 month plan for $90 and you're charged upfront (still $15 per box) or you can do a 12 month subscription which comes to $165 and you're charged upfront (it comes to $13.75 per box). In each box, you're going to get five luxe beauty products. If you sign up, please use my referral code 992-4D8B-00F2!

So now let's get to it - you see what happens when I don't write for my own blog in forever and just live on social? I end up talking and talking and talking just because I missed you guys so much. But you'll see why I took a few months off...I needed to learn a few new tricks ;-) 

So this first box includes five products it includes:

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1. The Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea Leave-In conditioner which is described as a daily conditioning treatment to improve manageability. It's a sulfate free formula that is supposed to be safe for color-treated, chemically treated, curly or straight hair. - Update - This is holy grail out of this entire box. I loveeee me a good leave in conditioner and it's coconut. I rub this on the end of my hair every night before going to bed. #LifeismadeIMG_5443

2. The Curls Crème Brule Whipped Curl Cream is a cream styler that will define, de-frizz, and moisturize your tresses, leaving soft curls without hold. - Update - I still love saying this name. Crème Brule. So sexy :-) Anyway, this is my second favorite product. I've been using this to tame my frizzy hair. I'll give you a better review once I keep my hair in a wash and go style.

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3. The L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream which is a cream that is enhanced with 20% shea butter which is specifically designed to penetrate quickly in order to protect, nourish and moisturize your hands. - Update - Ok, this stuff is amazing and is the perfect travel size lotion. I love that I'm able to keep it in my coat pocket to keep my hands moisturized while I'm out. remember ladies, your true age will always show on your hands and your neck so it's best to keep them moisturized!

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4. The Calvin Klein Eternity Now fragrance which is a bright addictive floral fragrance that features succulent fruits and radiant flowers that is enveloped in a soft cashmere veil. - Update - Full size bottle is already on my holiday wishlist! Do I need to say more?

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5. Lastly, the Tarte Brow Architect which is an all-in-one brush, pencil and underscoring concealer With this  tool, you can shape, line and define your brows with one simple tool. - Update - This is a really fun product that's great to travel with. Right now I'll be honest, I'm letting my eyebrows grow in because one looks like an evil twin. #NotCute

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And are you ready for this? Here's a quick video of me styling my hair using some of my favorite hair products along with the Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea Leave-In conditioner and Curls Crème Brule Whipped Curl Cream - which I've been using for about 3 weeks now and I am in love!

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Overall, I'm really impressed with this box because they are including well-known brands along with new brands and it's great for exposure. Let me know in the comments what you guys think! Don't forget to use the #EssenceBeauty so we can talk!

xoxo1

It's All About Those Nudes!

Get ready loves! I'm working on my next color story with Specktra and it's all about nudes! If you're looking for something to wear for Valentine's Day other than red/pink/purple then you want to make sure you catch this piece!

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 xoxo1

Is It Spring Yet? JustFab Sneak Peek

Spring...oh how I wish you were here now and would never ever leave again. Unfortunately, I'm a native New Yorker so I'll be singing this same tune once winter leaves and circles back again at the end of 2015.

The only thing getting me through this blast - the exciting sneak peeks of the upcoming Spring launches of some of my favorite companies! Yesterday, I quickly reposted this photo taken by @rachelaschenbrandpsw, fashion editor at @peoplestylewatchmag, of the #StyleWatching preview of JustFab's spring launch.

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So yeah, you can pretty much say that I'm ready for Spring! Start saving up those credits ladies and stock up on your favorite winter items now before their gone. Click here to shop online at JustFab.

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Sophia Amoruso Steps Down As CEO of NastyGal

 The official #GirlBoss herself has given up her role as CEO of NastyGal. Sophia Amoruso - the founder and creator of the Los Angeles based online fashion retailer took to Youtube to explain why she stepped down as the company's CEO and promoted Sheree Waterson in her place.

Briefly, Amoruso explains that she wants to focus on connecting with the brands customers and she can't do that while being in the office all day. Head to Youtube to check out the full video.

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What do you think about this decision? Honestly, I think given some of the recent negative press Sophia Amoruso has received about laying off pregnant women, this might be a good PR move for the company all around. Let me know what you think!

xoxo1

Here's To a Happy New Year - 2015!

Normally, I try to avoid doing this when a new year rolls around but I figured this year would be the one and only exception.

For the past few years, I've been going through this transition with myself physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially (have I used every -ly word that I can to describe this change?). What I'm trying to say is that it took me a long time to find myself and basically what really made me happy as a person. Just me. Not anybody else. Not my boyfriend, not my parents, not my family, not my friends, not my boss. Just me.

While I'm sure I haven't fully figured that out 100% yet and I'm still trying to find a balance for myself in the real world, I am excited about the progress that I've made so far and everything that I have planned for myself, my career and for you all!

So with that said, here's looking at 2015!

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Here's to a Happy 2015!

I hope you all have a fabulous time tonight whether you're going out partying or cuddling up at home! Let me know what you're wearing tonight! You know for me, it's all about bringing in the new year with a fresh face and some fabulous shoes from Shoedazzle!

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xoxo1

Complete The Look! Splurge vs Save!

Happy Monday Loves!

As I spend time winding down and preparing for the end of 2014, I can't help but think about some of the things that I want to leave in 2014 and all of the joy that I want to bring with me into the New Year.

For one, I know I'm going to start economizing my wardrobe. Now hear me out. All too often we, yes, we fashionistas, get too caught up in name brands and labels that we end up breaking our budget on clothes, makeup and accessories. Don't get me wrong, I am a sucker for all things Christian Louboutin and every once in a while a girl has got to spoil herself but where do we learn to draw the line.

Sometimes I wonder why we get so caught up in labels? Is it the luxury of the item? Does spending $2,000 on a clutch really make an outfit look better than it does with a $40 clutch?

So because of this I'm coming to you guys and I want to know how would you complete this look. Would you splurge or would you save?

(Splurge) On the right side we have a pair of Jimmy Choo Anouk Leather Pumps, a Jimmy Choo Ava Leather and Snakeskin clutch and Jimmy Choo bangels. In order to complete this classic pencil skirt look with these 3 accessories, you would have to spend up to $2,000.

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(Save) On the left we have a pair of Steven by Steve Madden Newbee Purple Pumps, a Steve Madden Zaharra Clutch and a Steve Madden two tone bangle set. In order to complete this classic pencil skirt look with these 3 accessories, you would have to spend up to $200.

The same outfit. Two different price points. How would you complete the look?

Let me know below!

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xoxo1

Deck The Halls in GX by Gwen Stefani!

There are very few things that a shoe obsessed girl like myself really wants to see under the tree come next week. I can only dream that good ol' Saint Nick will leave me 30 pairs of new shoes wrapped in a majestic red bow. Hey, a girl can dream right?

While I am off in la-la-land, I still have to plan what I'm going to wear for the rest of the holiday sawrey's coming up.

I ran across this pair of pumps called Ryoko and the Kurume clutch both from the GX by Gwen Stefani line exclusively at Shoedazzle.

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The shoes are to die for. I really did not think that I would love them as much as I do but they are perfect to #DeckTheHalls in for a holiday party. I'll post outfit of the day pictures of me wearing these in a few days.

I'm still debating on the clutch though. I do love the different textures and the color-blocking which really makes it stand out. However, it is very slim and I have no idea what I'm going to fit in there.

What are you thinking about wearing to #DeckTheHalls?

xoxo1

New - Too Faced Sweet Semi Chocolate Bar Palette

When a Chocolate Bar meets a Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar....

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Too Faced Cosmetics recently released a new Chocolate Bar Palette - the Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar. Now normally I'm able to resist the urge to buy yet another eyeshadow palette that will most likely collect dust on my vanity, however, this right here had me going crazy from the minute that the press release was announced.

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The Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar (photographed above) was inspired by Too Faced’s Chocolate Bar Eye Shadow Collection. This Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar palette is a deeper, warmer version of the original coveted palette. Infused with the scent of sweet chocolate, this collection features 16 antioxidant-rich, cocoa powder-infused shadows in matte and shimmer shades with warm caramels, deep mochas, bronzy chocolate, and vibrant sugared blueberry hues. These rich, high-pigment shades are perfect for any season, and it includes a signature how-to Glamour Guide to help you get started with three eye looks.

I'm showcasing the original chocolate bar (photographed below) just in case you need to drop any hints as to what you may want/need for a holiday gift. ;-)

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IMG_1424The Semi Sweet Chocolate Bar Palette is available for VIB and VIB Rouges at Sephora for $49.00

Click here to purchase the original Chocolate bar Palette for $49.00

xoxo1

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ShoeDazzle Winter Preview Sneak Peek

So last week, in the midst of the usual insanity, I had a Shoedazzle Winter Preview Video Conference aka a sneak peek at the new collection that is being released in a few weeks. You know it's one of those Super-Santa-Silent-Sunset-Secret (shout out to Grey's Anatomy) launch previews that I'm not allowed to discuss but O-M-G! I had to come and let you guys know to at least save your coins and any extra holiday gift money that you get because there are so many....just...so...many!

I think I've picked out 3 new pairs that must come home with me come January 1st, however, there is this one pump...in all her of deliciousness...that I will probably end up staying up all night until 3am PST just to ensure that I get her in all of the colors available.

It's very rare for me to feel as anxious and giddy over a pair of shoes. I mean I love all of my shoes and each pair has a special story behind them but you know when there is a pair that just touches your soul? I haven't felt a moment like this since I found my denim boot Zigi's at DSW back in 2011/2012. So for me to feel like this just from seeing this "secret pump" in pictures and a video is like holy grail for me.

I wish that I could release the pics but trust me when I say save your money! Cut someone off of that holiday shopping list. I mean you only see them twice a year so do they really need a gift?

Be prepared girls!

I'm already planning outfits around it! Check out the details below...the only thing missing are those shoes!

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Blazer: Forever New Sarah Structured Peplum Top: Rag & Bone Jean Rib Crop Tee Shorts: Vintage 90s Lee Light Blue Wash High Waisted Shorts Ring: Shoedazzle Shoes: Pending Shoedazzle release (Stay tuned)

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Top: Long sleeve ribbed crop Skirt: Burgandy ribbed stripe pencil skirt Clutch: Shoedazzle Riesel Earrings: Shoedazzle Shoes: Pending Shoedazzle release (Stay tuned)

xoxo1