fashion
I had the incredible honor to meet CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund winner and founder of Brother Vellies, Aurora James. I followed her journey as an African-American woman earning her spot in the fashion industry, while staying true to herself and her beliefs. Since watching the television series, she became a figure I've always wanted to meet. I'm happy that in the year 2017, I was not only able to meet her, but have an actual conversation. I asked if she saw herself having a shop in Los Angeles and was pleased to find that that's something she can foresee in the future. During her Q&A with Phoebe Lovatt of The Women's Working Club, Aurora spoke about the importance of her brand, especially when coming to handmade production in Africa. Additionally, she focused on speaking about her state of mind in regard to collaborating with big name companies. Aurora emphasized that she was never going stray away from her unique production process, as it benefits a lot of Africans that do not have privileges as great as the people in America. It was interesting to hear her speak so openly about the realities of the industry. After the Q&A, I was able to network with a couple of women at the event as well as indulge in snacks and cocktails made by the LA-based Mulholland Distilling Company. Overall, I'm extremely grateful for this experience.
I'd like to thank Geraldine Chung, owner of LCD (Lust, Covet, Desire) for giving people like me the opportunity to have a close insightful moment with a women I respect and admire greatly, Aurora James of Brother Vellies.
Meeting Aurora James of Brother Vellies
April 18, 2017
I had the incredible honor to meet CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund winner and founder of Brother Vellies, Aurora James. I followed her journey as an African-American woman earning her spot in the fashion industry, while staying true to herself and her beliefs. Since watching the television series, she became a figure I've always wanted to meet. I'm happy that in the year 2017, I was not only able to meet her, but have an actual conversation. I asked if she saw herself having a shop in Los Angeles and was pleased to find that that's something she can foresee in the future. During her Q&A with Phoebe Lovatt of The Women's Working Club, Aurora spoke about the importance of her brand, especially when coming to handmade production in Africa. Additionally, she focused on speaking about her state of mind in regard to collaborating with big name companies. Aurora emphasized that she was never going stray away from her unique production process, as it benefits a lot of Africans that do not have privileges as great as the people in America. It was interesting to hear her speak so openly about the realities of the industry. After the Q&A, I was able to network with a couple of women at the event as well as indulge in snacks and cocktails made by the LA-based Mulholland Distilling Company. Overall, I'm extremely grateful for this experience.
I'd like to thank Geraldine Chung, owner of LCD (Lust, Covet, Desire) for giving people like me the opportunity to have a close insightful moment with a women I respect and admire greatly, Aurora James of Brother Vellies.
On February 8, 2017, I had the incredible honor to be invited to the Tommy Hilfiger x Gigi Hadid Spring/Summer '17 fashion show in Venice Beach, California. This was the first fashion show I was exclusively invited to and attended.
The concept of the event was see-now, buy-now, which is an idea a lot of designers have been using this season when coming to their fashion shows. Upon entrance, there was a large pop-up shop featuring all the pieces from the collection we were about to see, available for purchase right then and there. About an hour before the show, attendees were able to shop and receive free things to take home like tote bags, custom lollipops, pins, and so forth. In fact, I got this Tommy Hilfiger tote bag made for me right before my very eyes. Almost immediately after I received my bag, the show was about to start. I grabbed a space and was beyond exhilarated to see my very first fashion show. Gigi Hadid opened the show to "California Love", then came her sister Bella Hadid, and many more famous and proudly diverse models. Gigi then closed the show with Tommy Hilfiger by her side as they walked on stage to introduce their surprise special guest, Fergie!
I'm happy that an event as big this one is the beginning of what I hope to be many more fashion shows down the road.
Thank You Gigi Hadid and Tommy Hilfiger for giving people like me the opportunity to attend an event such as this one.
Tommy Hilfiger x Gigi Hadid SS17 Fashion Show #TommyLand
March 16, 2017
On February 8, 2017, I had the incredible honor to be invited to the Tommy Hilfiger x Gigi Hadid Spring/Summer '17 fashion show in Venice Beach, California. This was the first fashion show I was exclusively invited to and attended.
The concept of the event was see-now, buy-now, which is an idea a lot of designers have been using this season when coming to their fashion shows. Upon entrance, there was a large pop-up shop featuring all the pieces from the collection we were about to see, available for purchase right then and there. About an hour before the show, attendees were able to shop and receive free things to take home like tote bags, custom lollipops, pins, and so forth. In fact, I got this Tommy Hilfiger tote bag made for me right before my very eyes. Almost immediately after I received my bag, the show was about to start. I grabbed a space and was beyond exhilarated to see my very first fashion show. Gigi Hadid opened the show to "California Love", then came her sister Bella Hadid, and many more famous and proudly diverse models. Gigi then closed the show with Tommy Hilfiger by her side as they walked on stage to introduce their surprise special guest, Fergie!
I'm happy that an event as big this one is the beginning of what I hope to be many more fashion shows down the road.
Thank You Gigi Hadid and Tommy Hilfiger for giving people like me the opportunity to attend an event such as this one.
Spring has finally arrived and I couldn't be more excited to be greeted by the sun everyday. Living in sunny Southern California, it's inevitable that everyone needs a pair of shades. I've been rocking these classic black frames for ages, but with the refreshing start of 2017 I've been looking for a new pair.
My recent interest in finding a new pair of shades is perfect, as Warby Parker's new spring collection called Sunscapades is being released today! They are introducing new styles and colors that are sure to make a statement on any trip to any destination. My Sunscapade destination of choice is Venice. I've been going to Abbot Kinney and for the very first time I went to the Venice Canals in Marina Del Ray. I have selected a couple of pairs that I would wear in light of my trip to the canals.
1. Aubrey {Smoky Quartz}
As a fan of neutral colors, this pair of shades would be perfect for a more muted look. I love the natural skin-tone effect they have on the face and would love to have them riding down the canyons on my way to the beach.
2. Margot {Marzipan Tortoise}
These tortoise shell frames are a definite showstopper with their quirky octagonal design. I would wear these on the streets of Abbot Kinney as I walk down the strip to shop, making a head-turning statement along the way.
3. Madison {Sky Blue}
The Madison's are a reflection of the clear blue sky we finally get to see. It's an epic color to pull off, especially when going towards the water.
4. Pearl {Marzipan Topaz}
These shades have to be my favorite as I'm loving the round frame and subtle tortoise shell design. Looking at these frames reminds of vintage shopping around the hip pockets of Venice.
Check out the entire Warby Parker's Spring '17 collection!
Sunscapades ☀️ | Warby Parker's New Spring '17 Collection
March 14, 2017
Spring has finally arrived and I couldn't be more excited to be greeted by the sun everyday. Living in sunny Southern California, it's inevitable that everyone needs a pair of shades. I've been rocking these classic black frames for ages, but with the refreshing start of 2017 I've been looking for a new pair.
My recent interest in finding a new pair of shades is perfect, as Warby Parker's new spring collection called Sunscapades is being released today! They are introducing new styles and colors that are sure to make a statement on any trip to any destination. My Sunscapade destination of choice is Venice. I've been going to Abbot Kinney and for the very first time I went to the Venice Canals in Marina Del Ray. I have selected a couple of pairs that I would wear in light of my trip to the canals.
1. Aubrey {Smoky Quartz}
As a fan of neutral colors, this pair of shades would be perfect for a more muted look. I love the natural skin-tone effect they have on the face and would love to have them riding down the canyons on my way to the beach.
2. Margot {Marzipan Tortoise}
These tortoise shell frames are a definite showstopper with their quirky octagonal design. I would wear these on the streets of Abbot Kinney as I walk down the strip to shop, making a head-turning statement along the way.
3. Madison {Sky Blue}
The Madison's are a reflection of the clear blue sky we finally get to see. It's an epic color to pull off, especially when going towards the water.
4. Pearl {Marzipan Topaz}
These shades have to be my favorite as I'm loving the round frame and subtle tortoise shell design. Looking at these frames reminds of vintage shopping around the hip pockets of Venice.
Check out the entire Warby Parker's Spring '17 collection!
One of my favorite bloggers Aimee Song released her New York Best Seller book Capture Your Style on September 20, 2016. As a blogger, it's great to get tips, tricks, and advice from a someone I respect personally and professionally. Obviously following Aimee on Instagram, I found out that she was going to be in LA at the Grove for a book signing on October 26th, just one day before the event. Living only 20 minutes away from the Grove and having the day off from work, it was a no-brainer that I had to attend and get my book signed.
The next day, I was ready for the rare and gifted opportunity to meet one on my favorite bloggers in-person. After looking at Aimee's Instagram post again, I noticed that mentioned that fashion icon and author of the foreword of her book Diane von Furstenburg was going to be there as well. I couldn't believe that I was going to the meet another woman I heavily respect as she continues to be a leading woman in the fashion industry. With my book and DSLR in hand, I arrived at the DVF store at the Grove and upon entrance I was greeted by glasses of champagne and multiple plates of hors d'oeuvres, just like a VIP. I felt special, and most importantly welcomed by people that have similar interests and taste. As I waited in line to get my book signed, I socialized with the people around me and even a couple of photographers. Then, Diane von Furstenburg herself walked in happily greeting everyone as if she knew them personally. She was incredibly warm and inviting, only increasing my endearment towards her. Waiting just a couple more minutes I made it to Aimee Song, and engaged in short conversation as she took the time to write a personal message as well as sign the first page of my book. She gave me a hug and we took a couple of pictures together. I hung around the store for a little longer and then left, feeling more than grateful for the ability to experience this event.
I'd like to thank Aimee Song & Diane von Furstenburg for giving people like me the opportunity to meet our icons in efforts to push us towards our dreams and aspirations. Opportunity is rare, and I'm happy that I was able to engage in this event and enjoy this experience.
Meeting Aimee Song & Diane von Furstenburg
December 30, 2016
One of my favorite bloggers Aimee Song released her New York Best Seller book Capture Your Style on September 20, 2016. As a blogger, it's great to get tips, tricks, and advice from a someone I respect personally and professionally. Obviously following Aimee on Instagram, I found out that she was going to be in LA at the Grove for a book signing on October 26th, just one day before the event. Living only 20 minutes away from the Grove and having the day off from work, it was a no-brainer that I had to attend and get my book signed.
The next day, I was ready for the rare and gifted opportunity to meet one on my favorite bloggers in-person. After looking at Aimee's Instagram post again, I noticed that mentioned that fashion icon and author of the foreword of her book Diane von Furstenburg was going to be there as well. I couldn't believe that I was going to the meet another woman I heavily respect as she continues to be a leading woman in the fashion industry. With my book and DSLR in hand, I arrived at the DVF store at the Grove and upon entrance I was greeted by glasses of champagne and multiple plates of hors d'oeuvres, just like a VIP. I felt special, and most importantly welcomed by people that have similar interests and taste. As I waited in line to get my book signed, I socialized with the people around me and even a couple of photographers. Then, Diane von Furstenburg herself walked in happily greeting everyone as if she knew them personally. She was incredibly warm and inviting, only increasing my endearment towards her. Waiting just a couple more minutes I made it to Aimee Song, and engaged in short conversation as she took the time to write a personal message as well as sign the first page of my book. She gave me a hug and we took a couple of pictures together. I hung around the store for a little longer and then left, feeling more than grateful for the ability to experience this event.
I'd like to thank Aimee Song & Diane von Furstenburg for giving people like me the opportunity to meet our icons in efforts to push us towards our dreams and aspirations. Opportunity is rare, and I'm happy that I was able to engage in this event and enjoy this experience.
When you're on-the-go and the scenery changes from day to night you don't want to have to think about changing your entire makeup look and outfit, especially when you're on vacation. I'm currently enjoying my last winter break as I have just finished my last semester of University. After enduring four years of studies, this 21 year-old college graduate deserves the celebration of a lifetime and what better place to go than Vegas! I've been to Vegas once before as a kid but never as an adult looking to have a good time in celebration of her success. With any vacation comes planning, and being an organized individual I use Vegas.com for the hotel package deals to see what I can get for my trip. My personal favorites are the deals featured for the Venetian, Palazzo, and Bellagio hotels. Being so big, bold, and romantic, I would like to match the scenery with a sweet look for the daytime and something more dramatic for a night out on the Strip. I use the same looks on a regular day in Los Angeles when I'm on-the-go as my scenery changes within just a couple of hours. Here's how I transition from day to night.
During the day I like to keep my look natural and blushed so I incorporate a lot of rosy pinks on the eyes and cheeks. I do this by using the Naked 3 Palette as well as the Lorac Pro Palette for nicely pigmented eyeshadows that reflect beautifully in the sun. I essentially try to achieve a light rose gold. First, I use "Trick" as a base on the entire lid of my eye, then I dab a little bit of "Buzz" on top to give it a more rosy look. One of my favorite things to do with eyeshadows is use a light glitter on the inner-corners of my eyes. "Dust" is the perfect shade for this effect so I go ahead and do so on both corners. I also use the same eyeshadow just below my eyebrows and right above my cupid's bow for a little more highlight. Moving on to the Lorac Pro Palette, I use "Gold" and "It Bronze" on the outer corners of my eyes for more definition. For the finishing touch I use a signature makeup trick of mine which is to use a gold shadow on my cheeks, almost like a blush. After the eyes, I do my everyday winged eyeliner, put on mascara, blush, eyebrows, and my favorite daytime perfume Chloe Love Story. Lastly, I'll decide on what kind of lip I'm going to do to complete the look. I love layering lipstick to achieve different shades so I lightly use Mac's burgundy lipstick "Diva" as a base and then go over it with Mac's "Brick-O-La" which is more of a natural pink. For my outfit, I used cool-toned neutrals to go with my makeup look. This kind of ensemble is perfect for going to my favorite coffee shop Alfred Coffee + Kitchen for my signature hot vanilla latte.
Makeup
Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette
Lorac Pro Palette
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Elf Blush {Mellow Mauve}
Still Stay All Day Liquid Waterproof Eyeliner {Black}
Colourpop Highlighter {Might Be}
Mac Lipstick {Diva}
Mac Lipstick {Brick-O-La}
Benefit Cosmetics Brow Conditioner Primer
Benefit Cosmetics Ka-Brow Cream-Gel Eyebrow Color {5}
Chloe Love Story Fragrance {Sample}
Outfit
Entire outfit from Zara
Shoes {Urban Outfitters}
Clutch {Forever 21}
For night time, I like to go for a more daring look so I amp up the darker tones in my makeup and outfit. For my eyes I use the Naked 2 Palette which has amazing shades for a look that makes a statement. Since we're going to be out all night I always start off by using a primer on my eyes and some tinted moisturizer on my face. After that I begin with eyeshadows using "Half Baked" as a base on the entire lid of my eye and then go over it with "Gold" from the Lorac Pro Palette. Then I use "Pewter" from the same palette on the outer corners of my eyes for more definition. Next I go back to the Naked 2 Palette and use "YDK" on the inner corners and finish off with "Chopper" on top. I also use "Chopper" for a little highlight just below my brows, on top of the cheeks, and above my cupid's bow. After the eyeshadows I touch up winged eyeliner, blush, eyebrows, and even add some eyelash extensions to really make my eyes stand out. For lips I solely use Mac's "Diva" for a signature red lip. Since the sun is gone and night is alive, I like to use my favorite sensual perfume Atelier Cologne in Cameila Interpede. I kept my outfit the same and switched out my grey moto jacket for a black leather jacket. I also unbuttoned my top to show a little more skin. This kind of look is perfect for an evening photoshoot with my photographer.
Makeup
Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette
Lorac Pro Palette
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer
Nars Tinted Moisturizer {Cuba}
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Waterproof Eyeliner {Black}
Elf Blush {Mellow Mauve}
Eyelash Extensions
Mac Lipstick {Diva}
Atelier Cologne Fragrance {Sample}
Outfit
Entire outfit from Zara
Shoes {Urban Outfitters}
Leather Jacket {Forever 21}
Shoes {Urban Outfitters}
Leather Jacket {Forever 21}
Night Look Photography: Lex Gallegos
Whether you're planning a trip to Vegas or having coffee at your favorite coffee shop, the best way to transition from day to night is to edit a couple of features and keep everything else the same.
Make sure to check out Vegas.com, the inspiration for this look!
Transition From Day to Night {Makeup & OOTD}
December 17, 2016
When you're on-the-go and the scenery changes from day to night you don't want to have to think about changing your entire makeup look and outfit, especially when you're on vacation. I'm currently enjoying my last winter break as I have just finished my last semester of University. After enduring four years of studies, this 21 year-old college graduate deserves the celebration of a lifetime and what better place to go than Vegas! I've been to Vegas once before as a kid but never as an adult looking to have a good time in celebration of her success. With any vacation comes planning, and being an organized individual I use Vegas.com for the hotel package deals to see what I can get for my trip. My personal favorites are the deals featured for the Venetian, Palazzo, and Bellagio hotels. Being so big, bold, and romantic, I would like to match the scenery with a sweet look for the daytime and something more dramatic for a night out on the Strip. I use the same looks on a regular day in Los Angeles when I'm on-the-go as my scenery changes within just a couple of hours. Here's how I transition from day to night.
During the day I like to keep my look natural and blushed so I incorporate a lot of rosy pinks on the eyes and cheeks. I do this by using the Naked 3 Palette as well as the Lorac Pro Palette for nicely pigmented eyeshadows that reflect beautifully in the sun. I essentially try to achieve a light rose gold. First, I use "Trick" as a base on the entire lid of my eye, then I dab a little bit of "Buzz" on top to give it a more rosy look. One of my favorite things to do with eyeshadows is use a light glitter on the inner-corners of my eyes. "Dust" is the perfect shade for this effect so I go ahead and do so on both corners. I also use the same eyeshadow just below my eyebrows and right above my cupid's bow for a little more highlight. Moving on to the Lorac Pro Palette, I use "Gold" and "It Bronze" on the outer corners of my eyes for more definition. For the finishing touch I use a signature makeup trick of mine which is to use a gold shadow on my cheeks, almost like a blush. After the eyes, I do my everyday winged eyeliner, put on mascara, blush, eyebrows, and my favorite daytime perfume Chloe Love Story. Lastly, I'll decide on what kind of lip I'm going to do to complete the look. I love layering lipstick to achieve different shades so I lightly use Mac's burgundy lipstick "Diva" as a base and then go over it with Mac's "Brick-O-La" which is more of a natural pink. For my outfit, I used cool-toned neutrals to go with my makeup look. This kind of ensemble is perfect for going to my favorite coffee shop Alfred Coffee + Kitchen for my signature hot vanilla latte.
Makeup
Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette
Lorac Pro Palette
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Elf Blush {Mellow Mauve}
Still Stay All Day Liquid Waterproof Eyeliner {Black}
Colourpop Highlighter {Might Be}
Mac Lipstick {Diva}
Mac Lipstick {Brick-O-La}
Benefit Cosmetics Brow Conditioner Primer
Benefit Cosmetics Ka-Brow Cream-Gel Eyebrow Color {5}
Chloe Love Story Fragrance {Sample}
Outfit
Entire outfit from Zara
Shoes {Urban Outfitters}
Clutch {Forever 21}
For night time, I like to go for a more daring look so I amp up the darker tones in my makeup and outfit. For my eyes I use the Naked 2 Palette which has amazing shades for a look that makes a statement. Since we're going to be out all night I always start off by using a primer on my eyes and some tinted moisturizer on my face. After that I begin with eyeshadows using "Half Baked" as a base on the entire lid of my eye and then go over it with "Gold" from the Lorac Pro Palette. Then I use "Pewter" from the same palette on the outer corners of my eyes for more definition. Next I go back to the Naked 2 Palette and use "YDK" on the inner corners and finish off with "Chopper" on top. I also use "Chopper" for a little highlight just below my brows, on top of the cheeks, and above my cupid's bow. After the eyeshadows I touch up winged eyeliner, blush, eyebrows, and even add some eyelash extensions to really make my eyes stand out. For lips I solely use Mac's "Diva" for a signature red lip. Since the sun is gone and night is alive, I like to use my favorite sensual perfume Atelier Cologne in Cameila Interpede. I kept my outfit the same and switched out my grey moto jacket for a black leather jacket. I also unbuttoned my top to show a little more skin. This kind of look is perfect for an evening photoshoot with my photographer.
Makeup
Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette
Lorac Pro Palette
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer
Nars Tinted Moisturizer {Cuba}
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Waterproof Eyeliner {Black}
Elf Blush {Mellow Mauve}
Eyelash Extensions
Mac Lipstick {Diva}
Atelier Cologne Fragrance {Sample}
Outfit
Entire outfit from Zara
Shoes {Urban Outfitters}
Leather Jacket {Forever 21}
Shoes {Urban Outfitters}
Leather Jacket {Forever 21}
Night Look Photography: Lex Gallegos
Whether you're planning a trip to Vegas or having coffee at your favorite coffee shop, the best way to transition from day to night is to edit a couple of features and keep everything else the same.
Make sure to check out Vegas.com, the inspiration for this look!
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