YouTube Video: Try-On Haul & Giveaway

I know, I know... I've totally been neglecting my blog. :( And, for that I am so sorry. Life has gotten a bit crazy lately. But most importantly, I do have a couple of blog posts planned & I promise to get to them soon.

I just quickly wanted to jump on here and let you guys know that I'm having a small GIVEAWAY on my YouTube I want everyone to have the opportunity to enter!!!

Prize:

• Forever21 cosmetic bag
• Maybelline The Rocket Mascara in Very Black
• Covergirl Outlast Lipstain in #415
• Maybelline Master Hi-Light in Pink Rose
• Maybelline The Nudes Palette

Rules:

• Subscribe to my channel!
• Leave a comment telling me what type of videos you would like to see on my channel (ex: morning/night routines, tutorials, ect.).

The giveaway will end September 22nd, 2014. I will randomly select a winner & contact them through YouTube message.

Check it out here: (or click here for direct link)

Don't forget to enter! And, I will see you very soon with a new blog post! Good Luck <3

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

Review: Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Foundation

Once again, I've fallen victim to "clever" advertisement! Basically..., I finally caved, and bought the new Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Foundation. Seeing that I love the Covergirl Outlast 3 in 1 Foundation so much I thought that it would be worth a shot.

You should know:

• It's oil-free.
• Comes in about twelve shades.

Its claims: This liquid foundation's oil-free formula provides medium coverage to even skin tone and cover imperfections. The result is a flawless, natural look that lasts all day.

Pros:

• It's lightweight.
• It's blendable.
• Only oxidizes a bit (most foundations oxidize on me because of my oily skin).
• The price is great (under $10).

Cons:

• It has light to medium coverage (I prefer a bit more coverage).
• May irritate sensitive skin.
• Does not stay matte for more than two hours.
• Does not set well into skin, giving it a "cakey" appearance. 

Even after two weeks, I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this foundation... As I mentioned, it seem like the product just sits, almost like a film, on top of the skin. At first I thought that it might be the primer I was using underneath it (Hourglass Veil Mineral). But, when I tried it without the primer I got the same effect, except that it looked "oily" within an hour. It seems like this foundation is not ideal for oily skin, and is better suited for drier complexions.

However, I recently watched gossmakeupartist's latest video where he mentions that applying rose water after a powder product will result in a natural finish (check the video out here). Covergirl's website does mention that this foundation has a "built-in powder system"; so maybe this is what's causing the problem. I guess I'll try this "rose water method" out for myself and let you know!

Have you tried the new Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous Foundation? If so let me know down below!

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

DIY: Cork Board

Ok, so I've gone a little "DIY crazy"... Literally, I now have an entire drawer dedicated to my arts & crafts supplies. This time around, I've prepared a very simple, very pretty, cork board. Not only is it a great tool for staying organized (especially for "back to school") but, it also doubles as great wall decor!

It only takes four easy steps!!!

You'll need:

• Frame
• Multi-surface acrylic craft paint
• Foam brush (in my experience, it delivers an even coat)
• Cork (amount depends on size of frame)
• Scissors
• Glue gun 

Step One: Paint the frame in whichever color you prefer. Wait one hour (approximately) in-between coats. 

• I chose the Martha Stewart Multi-Surface High Gloss Acrylic Craft Paint in Beach Glass.
• In my experience the paint dried quickly (about 30 min.) & did not have a strong odor (so, I was able to work inside).

Step Two: Cut cork to fit frame. Include and extra quarter of an inch to allow some space for glue.

Step Three: Once frame is completely dry, proceed to glue the cork on the backside of the frame.  

Step Four: Allow glue to properly dry.

And, you're done!!! Your new cork board is ready to be displayed!

I absolutely love how this project turned out! It's beautiful & a wonderful tool to stay organized. 

Everything I used was purchased at Michael's Craft Store but, you can probably find some of these supplies at Target, Wal-Mart or similar stores.

I hope that you've found this post helpful in any way, shape, or form.

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

YouTube Video: Collective Summer Haul!

Hey Guys! I just uploaded a new video on my YouTube channel called, Collective Summer Haul. Here I share with you all of the things that I've been picking up during my shopping trips for the past month.

It included items from stores like: Forever 21, Wet Seal, Nordstom Rack, & Ulta.

Check it out here: (or click here for direct link)

Don't forget to leave your comment, critique, and/or requests. I always look forward to hearing what you have to say!!! Also, don't forget to subscribe!

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

Review: Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream (Combination to Oily Skin)

For a while now, I've been on the hunt for a good drugstore BB Cream. Especially now for summer... Sometimes you just don't want to walk out with a full face of makeup on a hot day (Am I right?)! So, I finally decided to pick up the very buzzed about, Garnier BB Cream. I've already had it for about two week and thought that I was ready to share my take on it with you.

You should know:

• This review is only on the combination to oily skin version of this BB Cream.
• It's oil free.
• Contains Broad Spectrum SPF 20.
• Comes in four shades: Fair, Light/Medium, Medium/Deep, & Deep.

Its claims: Immediately mattifies, minimizes pores, and conceals imperfections to give skin a naturally smooth, flawless finish. 

Pros:

• Feels very light on the skin (you forget you have it on).
• Does not clog pores or cause breakouts.
• Has a matte finish.

Cons:

• Does not conceal redness or imperfections.
• Does not minimize the appearance of pores.
• Does not have buildable coverage.
• Is runny & watery (be very careful when unscrewing the cap, product may disperse).
• Does not stay matte for more than an hour.

This product may not have worked for me but, there are still a lot of people who do enjoy it . If you look at the box it comes in, it states under "purpose" of the product: "sunscreen" (which is very interesting). It gives me the impression that it is more of an "in-between step", and not meant to be used on its own (and substitute foundation). 

Regardless, let me know if you enjoy this product and why it works for you! But for now I think I'll just stick to my Jouer Matte Moisture Tint. 

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

YouTube Video: July Favorites

Hey guys! Today I'd like to share with you my first ever, very awkward YouTube video. Its totally noticeable how nervous I was at the beginning but, I start to loosen up...eventually! I'm not gonna lie... this was so hard to film! Phones rang, car alarms went off, trains passed by, oh, and neighbors stared through the window. You have no idea how much more respect I have for YouTubers after this experience. But, at the same time this could not have been more exciting!!!

My goal is to have my Blog & YouTube channel compliment one another. So, things you see here will be different from what you see there...unless requested otherwise. I've been pretty good with posting here once a week (Tuesdays) & would like to do the same for the channel (probably Thursdays).

So, here is my July Favorites video: (click here for direct link)

Don't forget to Subscribe & Like if you enjoyed!


Thank you for stopping by!


Until next time!

OOTD: Smock-Frock

Hey guys!!! Today's OOTD is a super effortless & very comfortable look. As of late I've picked up quite a couple of smock dresses... I guess I gravitate towards this particular style because they're loose fitting but, aren't shapeless. They're a great way to look cute, while staying comfy & casual.

Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)

Dress: ASOS (currently on sale!)

Shoes: ASOS (currently on sale!)

Bracelets: NiTa

Nail Polish: O.P.I. in Charged Up Cherry

The bracelets featured in this OOTD are part of NiTa's "Ex-Mermaid Collection". The second I saw them on Instagram I just knew I had to have them. You get good quality, stunning, unique pieces for a great price. A total must have!!! Make sure to follow them on Instagram & on Facebook for updates on new designs. 

I also wanted to quickly mention that this dress is real denim, which means...the color bleeds...like a lot! So for those first couple of washes keep it away from all of your light colored clothes. And for extra precaution, try not to pair it with a light colored purse either. I personally haven't had it stain any of my clothes or accessories but, I'd hate for it to happen to someone else!

I've included link to all of the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Thank you for stopping by!

Until next time!

DIY: Floral Shadow Box

As some of you may know, I recently moved to Atlanta, which means: new room to decorate!!! I've managed to get all the essentials and some decorations here and there, yet I couldn't help but feel like there was something missing. Then it hit me... ART! There was just too much empty space on my walls. And so the search for the perfect piece began. I managed to come-up empty handed every time. For the most part the inexpensive pieces weren't my style and the ones I loved are way too expensive.

So, since I couldn't find an ideal art piece for my room, I decided to make my own!

I thought it would be nice to share with you this super simple project that anyone can do! Really, it's only 3 steps!

You'll need:

• Back loading shadow box 
• Artificial/Silk flowers (make sure you have enough to fill your box)
• Wire cutter or scissors (depends on choice of flower)
• Windex or any glass cleaner

Step One: Remove all contents in the shadow box (pins, paper, instructions, etc.) & clean the inside glass with Windex or any other glass cleaner.

Step Two: Remove flowers from stems (some pop right off, but if they don't, cut them with a wire cutter or a scissor if there is no wire) & start arranging them however you desire. 

• I chose to remove the individual petals because I didn't like the look of the entire Hydrangea smooched up against the glass. But, like I stated before it all depends on your choice of flower!
• If you're using individual petals, keep piling them up. You want to create pressure once you close your box so nothing will shift or move.

Step Three: Secure the back of the shadow box into place.

And you're done!!! All that's left is to hang it up.

I had lots of fun with this project & I love how simple it is to put together. Hopefully this has inspired you to take on a DIY project of your own! 

Everything I used was purchased at Michael's Craft Store but, you can probably find these supplies at Marshalls, Target & Wal-Mart or similar stores.  

If you've found this post helpful in any way, shape or form feel free to share it on your favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

OOTD: White Out

As part of my venture to step out of my comfort zone, I've rediscovered the color white. I say "rediscover" because it's not a color I gravitate towards, actually... I avoid it. A long time ago I declared white pants as my worst enemy. I always found them to be so unflattering on my full-figure body. They drew attention to the features I was most uncomfortable with (my butt & thighs). But, I've decided to wave a white flag and give them a second chance. So, to really test my new found confidence & style limits I put together a mostly white on white outfit with a hint of color!

Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)

Top: ASOS

Jeans: Torrid

Shoes: Nine West

Earrings: Tous

Watch: Michael Kors 

Sunglasses: TUMI 

Nail Polish: O.P.I. in Charged Up Cherry

It was so much fun to finally wear this top! When I purchased it I didn't anticipate the peplum hem would be so sheer...but I rocked it anyways!!! I also wanted mention that the blue pattern is more muted in real life (for some reason the Blogger made very vibrant, particularly in the second picture). 

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

OOTD: Goodbye Blues

Well, here's a little update on my life! First, I graduated from college two weeks ago & earned my BA. I had so much fun at graduation & finally being done with college isn't so bad either. And..., I moved from Puerto Rico to Atlanta!!! It's been hard saying goodbye to the place I've called home for my entire life. Plus, it's where most of my family and friends are! I know it's not forever (I promised everyone it would only be for a year), but I'm gonna miss everyone so much, not to mention my beautiful Island. But, I must admit that Atlanta has been a lot more welcoming than I anticipated. I thought it to be very intimidating and that hasn't been the case at all. Everyone here has been so friendly! Not to mention, I live near two huge malls. It's a shopaholics dream!

On my last weekend in Puerto Rico I spent some time with my friends at La Concha Resort. We had lots of fun and took some great OOTD pictures.

First up is the OOTD featuring one of my new favorite tops:

Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)

Top: ASOS

Jeans: Torrid

Shoes: ZARA

Earrings: Forever21

Watch: Michael Kors

Nail Polish: O.P.I. in Charged Up Cherry

This pastel turquoise peplum top from ASOS is just so pretty (I wish it wouldn't have been so windy but, I can't complain...we had fun!). Plus, it's super comfortable! I can't wait to see what else I can pair it with.

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Review: Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil

I'm ridiculously lazy when it comes to removing my makeup! Come on, admit it...you are too! ;P Laziness aside, it's essential not to skip this step before heading bed. Sleeping with your makeup on can clog pores, cause breakout, and even lead to premature aging. So, it is very important to establish a night time skincare routine. I've just recently added the Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil to my routine and wanted to share my thoughts on it with you.

You should know:

• It does not contain: parabens, sulfates, & phthalates.
• Formulated for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Product must be applied to dry skin (directly on makeup).
• Be sure to massage product in for at least 30 seconds.
• Be sure to follow up with your daily cleanser of preference.

Its claims: An effectively gentle way to deep cleanse, this refreshing cleansing oil dissolves impurities and makeup without leaving an oily residue.

Pros:

• Truly remove all of your makeup, including waterproof mascara.
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin, doesn't sting eye area.
• Leaves skin feeling refreshed & clean (no residue left behind).
• Does not cause breakouts.
• Wonderful alternative to makeup wipes (faster, gentler, cost-effective). 

Cons:

• Can temporarily cloud your vision (only for a couple of seconds). 
• It takes two to three pumps of product (instead of the the one to two suggested).

I bought this product on a total whim and could not have been more surprised. I think I just found a new "holy grail" product! It literally get all of your makeup off in a matter of second, which is perfect for a lazy person like me! As awesome as this product is, you should always follow up with a cleanser to ensure that your skin is squeaky clean before your "beauty rest"! 

Have you tried this product yet? If you have, what are your thoughts on it? If you enjoyed this post and/or found it helpful feel free to share it on your favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

OOTD: Wearing Confidence

All of my life I've been overweight... And for the longest time I used to think that there was something severely wrong with me. I hated what I saw in the mirror, and more than anything in the world I wanted to be "skinny" (yes, "skinny" not "healthy"). Being overweight kept me from so many things: talking to people, going out with family, hanging out with friends, & even raising my hand in class. I dreaded the thought of people looking at me and judging me. Over the years I started to come out of my shell but, it never fixed the real problem: the way I viewed and valued myself as a person. The problem wasn't that I was overweight... it was that I hated myself for being that way!

All those years I focused on what other people thought about me, and not on what I thought about myself. It never dawned on me that people will only perceive what you allow them to see! If you put out the "vibe" that you're ashamed of the way you look, people will notice and assume that there is something wrong with the way you look... because you know what...? You gave them that power!

Confidence begins with acceptance. It's you accepting who you are, the way you are! Its gaining self worth and not allowing anybody else to tell you you're worth any less!!!

It took me 22 years to be able to wear a two-piece swimsuit on a public beach but, I DID IT! And, it felt so good!!!

Photography & Editing by Edward Iglesias (www.instagram.com/phoenixoptics)

Bikini Top: Forever21

High-waisted Bikini Bottom: Forever21

Kimono: Forever21

Hat: Charlotte Russe 

Nail Polish: O.P.I. in Charged Up Cherry

I encourage everyone to start dressing in confidence!!! Believe me, it makes all the difference. 

If you're in need of some inspiration check out these hashtags on Instagram: #celebratemysize #honormycurves #bodypositive #effyourbeautystandards 

A huge "thank you" to Lenna for being the best bestie ever! If you wouldn't have encouraged me to buy this swimsuit this post wouldn't exist! Love you!!! <3

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's brand name).

Also, if you've enjoyed this post feel free to share it on your favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Worth It: Mani & Pedi Products

Going out to get a mani/pedi once in a while is fun, but it can also be expensive. I think it's safe to say that most of us appreciate the look of nice, clean and well kept nails. And the best way to do that without breaking bank is to do it yourself! This means that you need the proper "tools" to get the job done.

Today I'd like to share with you guys some of my "must have" products for a DYI mani/pedi.

That being said here is a small list of tools everyone should already have:

Note: I'm not particularly committed to any brand when it comes to these items.

• Cotton balls
• Nail polish remover
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Cuticle nipper
• Cuticle oil
• Cuticle pusher
• Callus remover
• Foot file

Now, the following are my tried-and-true favorite products for an awesome mani/pedi:

Studio 35 Beauty Buffing Block: Possibly, what I love most about this buffer is that it is so inexpensive. Buffing blocks wear-out over time and need to be replaced; so why splurge when you can save? This four-sided block from Walgreens evens, smoothes, buffs, and shines. You can use it before applying nail polish or skip the polish and go for the natural, clean look!

LaVaque Go Green Crystal Nail File: Did you know that crystal nail files are a green alternative to emery boards? LaVaque's files are made from recycled material and are non-pouros (meaning that they can be sanitized and disinfected). Plus, it was designed to last for years! I've found that this file is much gentler on my nails that an emery board. It leaves my nails feeling nice and smooth. I got mine at Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Essie All in One 3-Way Glaze: This product works as a base, strengthener, and top coat. Truthfully, I only use it as a base. It does a great job at priming my nails before I apply color. My manicures last longer because of this base coat!

Revlon Colorstay Gel-Shine Top Coat: To be totally honest, this product is so hard to find and I may fear that it was discontinued. But, I have been able to get at Walgreen. Still, this is one of the best top coats I've ever used. Just like the name suggests, it leaves your nails super shinny! It actually does look like you just got a gel manicure, except that you saved a couple of bucks!

Essie Quick-E Drying Drops: If you are anything like me, you need this amazing product. I seriously cannot stay still... and always manage to ruin my manicures! Needless to say, these drop have completely solved that problem. All you need to do is apply 2-3 drops over your top coat and you are good to go. They dry almost instantly! I am so thankful for this neat invention!

Be Natural Callus Eliminator: You won't believe how much time and effort you'll save with this product. It literally does the work for you! All you have to do is soak your feet, apply the product, wait 3-5 minutes, and file the rest away. It'll leave the soles of your feet so soft. Even though it's a tough/professional product, it's totally safe to use at home. I picked up mine at Sally Beauty Supply.

A huge "Thank you" Valeria for requesting this post!!! <3

I've included links to the items that are still available online (just click on the item's names). If you enjoyed this post and/or found it helpful feel free to share it on you favorite social media network!

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!

Must See: Les Misérables

As most of you might already know... I love Broadway musicals! And, on May 31st I was fortunate enough to see Les Misérables on stage in NYC. As you can imagine, I was so excited that I would be watching this (oh so) classic musical live.

In March, Les Mis was finally brought back to Broadway. This revival was produced by Sir Cameron Mackintosh, who also produced the musical back in the 80s. Actually, in 1987 it won the Tony for Best Musical (to much of his credit). This year it has been nominated for three Tony Awards: Best Revival of a Musical, Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical (Ramin Karimloo), and Best Sound Design of a Musical (Mick Potter).

Summary:
Les Mis is a sung-through musical, has little to no spoken dialogue, based on Victor Hugo's novel (of the same name). The story takes place in 19th century France during the course of about 17 years (1815 - 1832). It centers around Jean Valjean and his quest for redemption. The main antagonist is Javert, a relentless inspector who vows to find prisoner 24601 and "not rest until he is safe behind bars". Throughout the years Valjean meets many other characters; including: Fantine, Cosett, the Thénardiers, Marius, and Éponine; who change and shape his life in different ways. The musical brings to light the themes of mercy, forgiveness, love, loss, God, morale, corruption, rebellion, and many more.

My experience:
I have to say that no other musical has affected me the way that Les Mis does... constant goosebumps!!! The musical numbers are out of this world amazing & very moving! And hearing & seeing it live really does make all the difference. The scenery, props, and projections are just outstanding. I wouldn't have expected less from such a "big name" production. However, as much as I hate to say it, there was one thing that was off... The musical numbers during Act II seemed to be a bit rushed. It was as if the orchestra was playing too fast and the actors where trying to catch up with them. This was incredibly evident during the number, "Stars" and "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables" (which are two of my favorites). Nonetheless, this incident did not in any way ruin my experience. Like I said before, this musical affects me in a special way. And if you are like me... you will cry! So make sure to take a few tissues! I absolutely love this musical & I love the fact that I got to see it on Broadway. I sincerely could not recommend it enough!!!

Have you seen Les Misérables on Broadway yet?

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Until next time!