Alexandra's diaries

Do Your Part: Raise Awareness

6/4/2020

Hello Loves,

I hope everyone is safe and healthy during this rough time. It is hard to process that we are living through a piece of history that our grandchildren will ask us about decades from now. On December 31st 2019 when we were popping champagne and looking forward to a new decade, who would have ever imagined that all this would happen?! Not me!

Anyways, a few weeks ago I was at Ulta, and I saw this line of beauty that I was unfamiliar with: Juvia’s Place. Their eyeshadow palettes caught me eye right away so I tested a few out and fell IN LOVE. Juvia’s Place is a black-owned brand you can find at Ulta. The brand caters to all ranges of skin tones, is reasonably priced, and the product is fantastic! The palette to the left is "The Warrior II" and is $20 at Ulta. I was going to write a post about this line, but due to current events, I decided to combine my newly-acquired love for this brand with a list of awareness for black-owned businesses.

As we all know, the outbreak of Covid-19 has destroyed businesses in a way that is beyond comprehension. Sadly, many businesses as we know will not recover. It is no secret that mom and pop businesses, minority-owned and black-owned businesses have been hit the absolute hardest during this pandemic. Let’s use our platforms to raise awareness and help these brands out. I mean really think about it: when you walk through Sephora or Ulta, how many brands do you see that are black owned? Women owned? Indie? Started out of their home? A handful.

Now, more than ever, I encourage you to SHOP SMALL and SHOP BLACK-OWNED. Use the lists below: educate yourself and your friends. Re-post these lists to spread awareness on black-owned beauty brands. I KNOW every girl out there is yearning to buy new beauty items for when we are finally aloud to have nights out. And most importantly, shop these black-owned brands and become familiar with these products. You won’t regret it!

Until Next Time
xo
-A

*if I have forgotten any brands, or if you would like your own black-owned company added to this list, please email directly and I will have it added ASAP. Thank you.

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Quarantine: But Make it Fashion

3/31/2020

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Hello Loves
You miss me? I sure hope so, because I missed sharing my thoughts and ideas on here. This next post is all about IDEAS: fun ideas to do while we are (unfortunately) locked in during the coronavirus quarantine. Lets get started:

*Make a BIG Brunch
Just for yourself. Lots of eggs, fluffy pancakes, mimosas. In the world of adulting, I know I cannot be the only one who does not get the chance to make a nice breakfast for myself.

*Spring Cleaning:
If I was not working from home, this is exactly what I would be doing. What better time to get rid of the old than a time when you are forced to stay at home? Also, once we are allowed back in public spaces, it will be so refreshing and satisfying to fill up your closet with new items now that the old ones have been purged. Treat yourself to a shopping spree.

*Make Homemade Body Care:
Pinterest is full of awesome recipes for making your own lip balm, body oils, scrubs, potpourri, candles and more! Also, the cute, yellow macaron packaging of mine was from Amazon. Amazon has oodles of super cute, super cheap packaging options to choose from. Or, you could keep it real simple and just mix up some Whole Milk and Honey and soak yourself in the legendary Cleopatra's milk bath.

*homemade DIY lip balm!

*Paint
Embrace your inner Bob Ross. Even if you are not particularly artistic, there are tons of paint-by-numbers of all levels that are perfect for being stuck inside. Also, don’t forget a bottle of wine to accompany. Try one of these:

*one of my paintings from another time I was stuck inside (sick)

PAINT BY NUMBER

*Start a Puzzle
How old school...almost romantic if you will? Puzzles are a classic way to kill time, and not to mention cut down on your electric bill. I am obsessing over this all-black one for some reason. See it here:

ALL BLACK PUZZLE

*Clean/Detangle Jewelry
This is something I need to do desperately. Cleaning silver is so satisfying and therapeutic, and I can also guarantee every girl has at least one necklace they want to wear but can’t because it’s tangled or dirty. Now is the time to tackle it.

*Watch Rick And Morty
He turns himself into a Pickle. It’s hilarious. Also, if you subscribe to Spotify Premium, you have FREE access to watch it on Hulu!

*Learn a New Software:
Where are my fellow nerds at? This is a fantastic time to learn a new software. Some impressive programs to have on your resume include Photoshop & Illustrator, and here’s a secret: Adobe is offering extending free trails during this time of quarantine. Thanks, Adobe. Some other useful programs that I have taught myself are Audacity: a free, open-source platform for music editing. If you really need to kill time, try teaching yourself to code! I learned in under a year back in college. My favorite software is VIM because I can do absolutely anything, but try Sublime Text or Notepad ++ if you are a beginner.

*Subscribe to a Magazine:
Enter normal life again in the know of the latest fashion trends. I used to be subscribed to Haprer’s Bazaar in 2018, and I swear that was when I had the best fashion sense because I was always in the know. Also, Vogue Italia is offering free digital subscriptions right now so jump on that!

*Experiment with Make-up
I just put this on the list because it’s fun. I’m sure most of my make-up enthusiast readers have been doing this already.

*Get Good at Video Games:
Treat yourself: buy a new gaming console for yourself because unfortunately, we are going to remain inside for a long time. If you seek a Playstation or an Xbox but want to save some money, try a second-hand store or even a pawn shop. If you have a Windows or Linux operating system, download Steam. Adventure awaits.

*Attempt a Challenging Recipe
This is the golden window of opportunity to create that challenging dish you always secretly wanted to attempt! For me, I have always wanted to make my own pho, start to finish. Again, stay tuned. Some other complex/time consuming dishes perfect for if you’re trying to be on Hell’s Kitchen include pad Thai, Naan, tiramisù and homemade sushi.

*Write Poetry
Even if you do not consider yourself a writer per say, just start with a few words and see where it gets you. I think you will be shocked at what you can come up with when you really allow your brain to search for the right words. Sometimes I find a crisp, new journal is the best way to get motivated for writing: I got this old-fashioned leather-bound journal at Barnes & Noble.

R.H. Sin is one of my favorites to look to for poetic inspiration- check him out!

*Color Eggs
Easter is right around the corner! Even if you do not celebrate, what a fun and yummy way to enjoy breakfast. All you need to do is boil some eggs and mix some vinegar as food coloring and you have a fun, colorful addition to your breakfast.

*Plant an Herb Garden
If I had more space, I would have a flourishing herb garden in my kitchen right now. However, these tabletop, indoor gardens from William Sonoma makes growing your own veggies and herbs possible. I personally haven’t tried it yet, but after I get my stimulus check, that might change. Stay tuned

INDOOR GARDEN

Last but not least: nap. This is my favorite part of quarantine. I hope you all enjoyed my ideas for how to stay busy and happy, and everyone who reads this: please stay healthy and safe

xo
-A

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The Perfect Stay-Cation

7/7/2019

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Hello, Loves

Don't you ever just want to pack up and take a much-needed trip for literally no reason? Because same. All the time. However, sometimes it is important to remember that you do not necessarily need to leave your city or spend a lot of money to achieve some much needed "me" time. While I do agree, it IS very easy for me to say that because I live in Manhattan: here are some tips to achieve that "stay-cation" feeling no matter where you call home.

1. Find a Park You've Never Visited
Seriously: I guarantee every city has some kind of hidden gem park you have not yet ventured to. Pick one and spend a few hours there enjoying anything from reading, to sunbathing, to people watching (my favorite). It truly is a mind-clearer
For my stay-cation, I sunbathed in a secluded area of Central Park that I have never been to, and brought some fresh fruit, as you can see in my top photo. Don’t forget the Tajin!

2. Go Shopping Somewhere You Don't Typically Shop At
Even if it is just window-shopping at a place you can't afford: just go to feel inspired. Or if you really want to the full experience but don’t want to break the bank, just get yourself a little something small. For my stay-cation, I spent literally the entire day at Bloomingdale's because I never really go in there. I also left with a greater sense of what is in fashion right now.

3. If the Price Is Right, Book a Night at an Air BNB or a Hotel
If you are lucky enough to have actual, historic Bed & Breakfasts in your city, 1. I envy you, 2. Go for it! This is the perfect way to clear your head and create your own, personal stay-cation space.

4. Phone Off!
Seriously. That boy who left you on read for a week? Ignore. 65 Messages in the group chat? Get Back to them later. In today's day and age, our smartphones have become an extension of our arms. It is easy to get sucked up into our phones, so for a portion of your stay-cation, NO PHONE even if it is just one day. However, I did use Instagram during my stay-cation. Let people wonder what you're up to, who you're with, and where you're at. Give yourself the upper hand.

5. Try a New Cuisine or Restaurant
This was probably my favorite part of the stay-cation: If there is a cuisine you are curious about but never indulged in, this is the perfect opportunity! And do not be afraid to go alone: I hear so many girls say they feel "odd" going to a restaurant or bar alone, but trust me, once you get over that feeling of "OMG I'm at a table by myself" and your food comes, and you start sipping wine, it really is a tremendously, peaceful feeling.

*For my stay-cation, the place I went to was in Columbus Circle called Trattoria del' Arte. It is a small, Italian restaurant filled with all kinds of anatomical art, line drawings, and sculptures (the kind of things I weirdly obsess over), and they had Cacio e Pepe and aperol spritzers on the menu, so it was a perfect stay-cation meal for me.

6. Go People-Watching
Again, my favorite thing to do, ever. But seriously, sometimes just hanging out at Starbucks or a Barnes and Noble is a great space to get immersed in some activity or to people watch. The most important aspect of this activity is do not feel guilty for doing nothing: sometimes if we spend a complete day being unproductive we tend to feel guilty but don't! We have the rest of our lives to be busy and productive. Eat that croissant and read that magazine. All Day.

7. Self Care Self Care Self Care
I'm big on self-care. Spend a day at a spa, or if you are on a budget, just go get your nails painted. For under $13, you can have somebody pamper you. Or do it yourself and head to Ulta or Sephora and get a face mask or two. My life feels so much more together after I do a face mask. My favorite one at the moment is the Tony Moly Floria Facial Peel. It costs about $23, but lasts forever because you only do it once a week. You leave it on for about 5 minutes, then peel it off and your skin looks so much brighter, younger, and feels like marble. Give it a try!

So there you have it: ways to make your city seem new, fun, and adventurous without breaking the bank. I hope you enjoyed, and feel free to comment and share!

xo
-A

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My FIrst Red Carpet Event: A Re-Cap

2/24/2019

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Hello Loves <3
I am happy to say that recently, I have gotten my writing mojo back, and I have an abundance of new content to share! This past year has been INSANE (relationships, moving cities, career changes, you name it) and I am going to share it all on here as promised in my last post. As most of you know, I have made the move to the Big Apple in pursuit of working in fashion. You also may know that this has been the ultimate goal of mine, not only since I started this blog in 2013, but since I was much, much younger. Thank you to everyone who has followed me and supported me, and I promise I will share all my latest stories, updates and tips right here.

That being said, I am transitioning my blog to include tips of everything NYC-related: how I got here, how I picked my neighborhood, the best entertainment, how to adjust, etc. I want to touch on the aspects of NYC living that go unsaid: basically I want to tell my readers everything I WISH I would've known. I thought it was appropriate to kick-off my new image of my blog with a re-cap of my FIRST EVER RED CARPET EVENT!

The Event was The Winter Film Awards, an international film festival held annually in New York City. The festival celebrates diversity across all genres, and showcases both local and international films. I was honored to be able to attend the 8th Annual Winter Film Awards, and be a part of something so positive and inviting! The festival is currently on the list of Top 100 Best Reviewed Festivals, how cool is that? If you are an emerging filmmaker, actor/actress, comedian, model, makeup artist or even a film junkie, I highly recommend you check them out and join us at the awards next year!

Okay, so the attire. Red Carpet calls for sparkles, right? Sparkles and fur. That is why I went with a sequin dress from lulus.com and a white fur vest from Missguided. I topped the look off with sleek hair thanks to the Chi Silk Infusion line, and Badgley Mishka earrings. Also, because about 10 women asked me last night, my lip color is Patina by Stilla, a personal favorite mauve of mine. This color makes my lips look so plump and inviting, and it stays on all day.

Lastly, the venue. The WFA were held at 230 on 5th, which if you live in New York City or will be visiting, I highly recommend and here is why: it is a rooftop IGLOO BAR. On the rooftop sit dozens of private, little pods that are heated and perfect for a day of lounging and drinking. It also provides an incredible view of the Empire State Building and city skyline. The place also does a good dirty martini. I have decided I am going to do a post about the most Instagram-worthy places in NYC, and this will be on the list so stay tuned!

I could not have had a better experience at Winter Film Awards, and I am so happy that this was my first, official red carpet event. I feel like as a New Yorker and a fashion designer, your first red carpet event is a right-of-passage in a sense. I hope you enjoyed, and stay tuned for more adventures <3

xo
-A

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Updates and why i have been compeltely mia

9/25/2018

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Hello, Loves

Did you miss me? I took almost a year off of writing, and while part of my hiatus was simply because I was just too busy to sit down and brainstorm and create videos, etc. I really do feel like taking all of this time off was a mistake. I feel I kind of took this blog that I have spent so many years perfecting, for granted.

Anyways, I am very excited to share some decisions I have made with you all. I have changed A LOT in this past year, and in a way, I almost want to re-brand myself. I want the focus of this site to still be rooted in beauty, fashion, and travel, but I want to shift away from this artificial feel that is easy to succumb to when blogging: the superficial "my life is so perfect" aspect of blogging and social media really turned me off of it, and I want to steer away from that vibe. I do not want my readers to look at my page and feel that it is staged: I don't like how in the past couple years, blogging and social media became a contest of "who has the most followers" and "who's life is the most perfect": that is not what my page is about. I love to share my highs and lows, as well as answer any questions people in situations similar to mine might have.

My first personal post is going to be me sharing to you what I have been up to, (BIG changed), where I have finally moved to, and how to adjust to a new life. The post is going to be all about empowerment and how you should not be afraid to take the next step. However, naturally, it is nerve-wracking to take that next step, so I will guide you through that as well.

I am very excited to share this new aspect of my life that is ever-changing. Don't worry: I am not changing the whole blog, I am just evolving. Stay tuned :-)

Love,
-Alexandra
xo

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Get Ready with Me!

12/8/2017

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Hello Loves!

So what I have made for you is a get ready video with me of a look that is perfect for this holiday season. Als, I have tailored it to be for beginners: so no crazy contouring or 500 products you will need. I hope you enjoy, and let me know your thoughts!

Here is a recap of what was used:
*Smashbox Photo Finish Primer (although not shown)
*Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eyeshadow Primer (not shown)
*Benefit Boing Concealer in 002
*Almay Blemish Healing Pressed Powder in Ivory
*Kat Von D Tattoo Concealer in Light
*Soap and Glory Kick Ass Powder in Translucent
*Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer in Dark Chocolate
*Too Faced Bulletproof Brows in Dark Brown
*Nars Creme Eyeshadow in Cosmic Girl
*Nars Classic Eyeshadow in Tibet
*Too Faced Eyeshadow in Semi-Sweet
*Nars Highligher in Miss Liberty
*Elf Liquid Eyeliner in Black
*Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Crayon in Blackest Black
*Ardell 120 Lashes, applied with DUO lash glue
*Too Faced Better than Sex Mascara in Black
*Estee Lauder Gelee Highlighter in Heat Wave
*Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lipstick in Vengeful Red

xo
-A

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Guide To The COmplete Make-Up Kit

7/11/2017

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Hey Loves <3
So as you know, I have basically tried and tested every product to ever exist (except for that Lancome Foundation that they custom mix for you), but I will get my hands on that soon enough. The following is a list I have compiled of my favorite product/brand from each category of beauty: skincare, body care, face, eyes, lips, and tools. While I understand some of the pieces on this list are pricey, they are on this list because they are worth the money. You are also probably wondering why I have some drugstore and cheap brand make up on this list? Well, that just means that product exceeded my expectations and got my Gold Seal of Approval. I hope you enjoy. Lastly, please let me know if I missed any particular category!
Thanks again
xo
-A

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Hats Off For The Class of 2017: How to Look and Feel Your Best on Your Big Day

5/26/2017

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Hello loves
As I know the big day is approaching for many of you, I am happy to share that I, myself was a graduating college student this past weekend. Woop woop! Cheers to that. It was especially important because not only am I the first woman in my immediate family to obtain a university degree, I graduated with honors as Summa Cum Laude, and even received my commencement speech from Octavia Spencer! Let’s also not underestimate the fact that I wore a $475 pair of Badgley Mischka heels for $50… as you can see, very eventful.

Graduation is a day where you want to look your best: you want your makeup to stay put through all the sweat, and your hairstyle to stay during all the hugging, so this is where I can help you. Also keep in mind, you do not want to look too drastic or unrecognizable, for example, maybe leave the super shimmery highlighter on your desk and keep it simple on the eyeliner. Here is some of my advice and products I used to ensure I was graduating looking my best.

Yes, you can bring a bag.
The day of my graduation, I was conflicted because I thought maybe I was not allowed to bring a purse, but I did not want to deal with the hassle of carrying a clutch. But the answer is yes, you can bring a small cross-body and keep it under your chair during your ceremony. I tend to find many cute, small cross-bodied bags at Express, and they are usually on sale.

Do not underestimate the power of Crest whitestrips:
Okay, so this is something I did NOT do for my graduation ceremony, but wished I had. You will be smiling ALL DAY, so I recommend using a box prior to the week of your ceremony. Trust me, it really makes a difference.

Face:
I would recommend a matte look for the day because oil and sweat will be sitting on your face all day, so a dewy look may only amplify shine and cause your photos to make you look, well, greasy. I personally have dry skin, but if you know your skin type is on the oily side, I highly recommend bringing some blotting sheets or even mattifying powder in your bag. Some of the products I used and was thankful I did was my handy dandy Tarte Amazonian Clay Foundation because it lasted all day, even through the sweat, Soap and Glory Kick-Ass Instant Re-touch powder to make sure NO shine was going to peek through, and Marc Jacobs Coconut Setting Spray, just in case my makeup wanted to play games.

Eyes
I would recommend a matte shadow, but if you want a little shimmer, in the tear duct or eyelid would be okay. I would avoid a smokey eye or overly-dramatic liner because you do want to remain somewhat professional: leave the smokey eye for when you go out after. Contouring and highlighting is fine, but I would avoid over-doing it and stray from overly-shimmery products. Trust me, I am all about the strobing, but shimmery highlighter can be a little bit overkill for a grad ceremony. Lips: if you are going to be bold anywhere, I would say go with the lips. I kept mine a nice brown hue using Maybelline Natural Mattes in “Raw Chocolate”, as some of you know, this is my “signature color”, so I wore it to make sure my lips look their best. However, I did see some girls sporting hues or reds and pinks, and the contrast was very elegant, but it all depends on what color your cap and gown is and how comfortable you feel. See the pictures of products I used below.

Hair:
Less is more, keep it simple. I curled my hair all big and teased and guess what: it all did not fit under my grad cap! If you are most comfortable with your hair straight, keep it straight. If you opt for curls, maybe avoid adding too much volume at the top like I did: just emphasize the bottom. If you are choosing curls or waves, I would recommend priming with Living Proof Style Extender Priming Spray because (not to be gross) but the back of your neck gets hot with the cords, and can cause your hair to become tangled or your curls to fall. Finish off with a good freezing spray.

Careful on the self-tanner!
Remember that you have to take professional pictures before and after you walk: what this means is the photographer gets a headshot of you holding a diploma, cute right? Yes, except for if you have self-tanner stained hands like I saw on a few people. Just please, please be sure to wash your hands WELL immediately after or use a mitt to be extra protective.

Cap:
I say decorate it because it is the last opportunity for your peers to get a little taste of what makes you, you. I pasted a map of the world onto the back and used Puff Paint to “pinpoint” each of the countries and cities I went to. If any of you guys copy this idea, it is totally OK with me haha. Just make sure you use a strong glue like E-6000 or tacky glue and not double sided tape because I witnessed some caps falling apart during my ceremony which was stressful for everyone.

Lastly, pop the champagne! You earned it. College, although some feel it is easy to “get in”, it is tough to stay in, and obtaining education is one thing people can never take from you. Don’t underestimate yourself or what you can accomplish, and don’t fret if you are graduating this weekend and are still unemployed, the time will come. Hats off to the class of 2017.

xo
-A

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The Wild, Wild West

4/11/2017

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Hello beauties <3 long time no post, I know. I have been really busy with this semester which is why I have not posted in over a month. But on the bright side, I have lots to share with you. Now, most people when they think "Spring Break" do not necessarily think to head out West to the Rocky Mountains, but that is exactly what me and my friend did. It's just we've been to Florida, Cancun, even the Amalfi Coast for past spring breaks, so why not go for a change of scenery? (literally). Now here is what Denver taught me that I did not know prior to coming:

1. I don't hate hiking as much as I thought I did
Honestly, my entire life, hiking was something I've loathed. This time, on the day trip we took to a canyon in the mountains called Garden of the Gods, I realized I really don't mind hiking: turns out i actually enjoy it. Turns out I like rock climbing as well.

2. The drives through the winding mountains would be the best part
The above photo is taken from inside the car on a drive through the mountains at 11,000 feet. No filter needed, and yes, driving through the mountains can be very scary: especially when there are no clear railings, so you literally look down from the passenger window, and you're looking down the mountain. I was also unaware that wild elks definitely have the right-of-way when it comes to crossing the roads (their antlers are huge).

3. How good the shopping is
I was not told to bring extra money because the shopping in Denver is quite nice. Above, I got an Alex and Ani Colorado Rockies bracelet for $14 to add to my arm candy, an ostrich feather Helmut Lang top for $19, and a pair of Bagley Mishka stilettos which I am wearing for graduation for only $50. I got lots of other stuff too, which I am sure you will be seeing in future posts, all from the Denver Nordstrom Rack.

4. That they're known for taffy
Surprised I didn't come back with cavities after all the saltwater taffy I ate. Taffy boutiques are everywhere, and some places they even make it in front of you. They also have really interesting flavors such as wedding cake, cookie dough, butter, and apple pie.

5. How much they appreciate local artists and handmade goods
Denver over all cities I have been to, has a huge appreciation for artisans and unique, handmade goods. To the left is a handmade earth clay tea pot shaped like a pharoh, the middle is handmade, loose tea because there are mom and pop tea shops on every corner (and they're all cute and all have a "house tea"), and to the far right are life-sized bear statues that are hand-carved and you can pick what you want the sign the bear is holding to say. Needless to say everyone in Denver has very unique tastes, and there are many different styles of houses and decor that you will notice if you really observe.

6. That Colorado is a very haunted state
Colorado is full of ghost towns, haunted mines, and home to the Stanley Hotel, all of which I toured. I was most excited for the Stanley Hotel because it is where Dumb and Dumber was filmed, but what I did not know is that it is the fourth most haunted place in the US, and it is where Steven King stayed where he got his inspiration for his most dark and twisted stories. His classic, "The Shining" was filmed here, and now I can see why.

from left to right: Josie Maran Argan Face Oil, Benefit Pore-fessional Pore Minimizing Balm, Maybelline BB Fresh Cream, Josie Maran Intense Creamy Oil for Face and Hands, Cargo HD CC Cream in Matte, Glossier All-Around Skin Salve in Coconut, and L'Occitane Pure Shea Butter.

7. How dry my skin was going to be
I was not aware that my skin would be dust, and my hair would be straw. I highly recommend that if you are visiting Colorado (or anywhere with high elevation and mountains), you pack your most moisturizing products. I did not know this prior to coming, and after day three, I realized powder foundation and eyeshadow were not an option. Also, my skin was so dry, I picked up the Cooling Water Gel Stick by Milk Make-up and it saved me: I highly recommend it to keep in your bag during hot months or if your face gets easily dehydrated. Other products I recommend are some kind of facial oil, a hand cream that has either real shea or coconut oil in it, a pore minimizer (my pores looked big and dirty), and a cleanser that is moisturizing: although not pictured, I like either the Mary Kay Cream Cleanser for Dry Skin, or the First Aid Beauty (FAB) Cream Cleanser. I would NOT bring anything geared towards acne, or anything with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, as the elements will make your face dry and burn. I also recommend using a moisturizing hair mask if you will be there a week or longer.

8. The fashion is still very wild, Western
Coming from Italy and NYC, I am very accustomed to black, monochrome, and sleek leather, but not here. Everything is fringed, and tasseled, with big, chunky embellishments. Also, lots of cowboy boots and hats. Again, re-stating that they love hand-made goods, lots of the fashion includes pieces of turquoise, tigers eye, and silver. Above were my Western pieces of choice: Bags: Snakeskin Canteen Bag: Express, Fringe Satchel, H&M, and Turquoise Necklace, Chicos

9. How attractive and nice the people are
Now, I do not have pictures of the locals because that is very weird and stalker-ish, but the men in Colorado are all very built and attractive: I don't know if they're all lumberjacks or cowboys, or what but they were all nice to look at. And all the women have beautiful, interesting styles, and are very kind and welcoming, especially to travelers.

I hope you enjoyed my travel diary entry on the Wild, Wild West. This trip was definitely a change from my usual travel destinations, but in a good way. I will definitely be back, and I encourage all my US (and international) readers to explore the West if you have not already. You will be impressed with what you find.

xo
-A

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Valentine' Favorites

2/15/2017

3 Comments

Hello Loves <3
I hope everybody had a lovely Valentine's Day!! And for those who maybe did not, do not dwell on it. Just because you may not have had a "special someone" in particular, or maybe you just had a breakup, does not mean you should let a day get you down. Anyways, here are my little tricks and treats that made me feel top of my game on V-Day:

Shoes: Ivory Rockstuds-Valentino. tradesy.com
Nothing says bold and sexy like rockstuds. I also thought wearing Valentino was appropriate given the day :-). Good news: if you don't feel like paying the full price for Valentino, Charlotte Russe has a pair that are very similar.

Eyeshadow: Too-Faced Chocolate Bon Bons. Sephora/ Ulta
What better eye makeup to wear on V-Day than one that smells like chocolate? And not only are these the perfect colors for autumn/ winter, but they are pretty much goof-proof. Even Black Currant and Totally Fetch can find a place into an everyday look.

Eloise Porcelain Bra. Morgan Lane. morgan-lane.com
I am a firm believer that wearing cute lingerie daily makes you feel better inside and out. ML's fine lingerie is functional and perfect for every day, but also leaves a cute little surprise.

Michael Kors "Sexy Amber" Perfume. Sephora.
I sampled this around Thanksgiving, and I had to have it. I have not worn anything else since. If you want instant complements every time you leave your house, buy this. I had a group of men literally chase me on the sidewalk last weekend to ask me what I was wearing. It is dressy, but also light enough that it can be worn every day. Be cautioned though, it is a hefty price. Worth it though. It also comes in a roller ball version if you prefer cheaper, more portable options.

Bath & Body Works 'Lavender and Sandalwood" cream and fine mist. B&BW.
If you are the kind that prefers to layer their scents and likes the convenience of body spray, this is a good one to try. It smells expensive: you would never know it was only $14. Also, it is made with essential oils instead of all that artificial stuff, so the cream really absorbs into skin. Get it now before it's discontinued!

Kylie Lip Kit in "Koko K" kyliecosmetics.com
Lastly, what is a perfect date without a perfect pucker? Most ladies would probably opt for a red on Valentine's Day, but red never was my thing, so I went with soft pink. I tried one of Kylie's lip kits and never went back. The one I feel is perfect for a date (or anytime, really) is the Koko K shade. It is my favorite, plus if this would be your first Kylie Kit, this one is a good starter because it can work for many skin tones and many occasions. Did I mention it smells like strawberries?