Spring Break Style - LBD Challenge

LBD Spring Edition

with

Quay X, DAILYLOOK, Bauxo

It's that time again - SPRING! Warm weather, more sunshine, and of course, longer days! Living in the northeast, you become accustom to dark cold days that tend to drag on the year, right? But once spring and summer roll around, we tend to get a little crazy with that sunshine fever (I know I tend to). 

So to kick off my spring series of blog posts, I'd like to start with a challenge I was invited to participate in by DAILYLOOK - their Little Black Dress (LBD) challenge! I was very honored and pretty excited to be asked to participate in this challenge since, as most of you know, I love fashion and furthermore - I love black clothes! Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to getaway this spring due to a heavy workload (gotta make that mula) so that has been taking up the majority of my time and energy. 

Above is my Style Set that I created on Dailylook to create my ideal spring outfit, of course, featuring one of their LBDs - the Silk Racerback Tank Dress. I fell in love with most of the dresses within their LBD collection, however this dress struck me as the most versatile and it had the perfect balance of being sexy, yet subtle. 

This look is perfect for someone, like me, who is constantly on the go and yet still wants to look put together and ready to take on anything that may pop up - lunch outdoors with my friends, perhaps light shopping ;) or even just a walk outside to take in the nice weather. As with any agency environment, looking put together, yet professional is essential; so when the weekend rolls around it's only natural that you'd want to loosen up a bit. However, loosening up doesn't necessarily mean bum out or look sloppy (huge no, no). I'm a firm believer in always looking your best because you never know who you're going to meet!

This particular look is something I'd wear when I'm spending the day with my girls or perhaps for a casual date. The dress keeps that sex appeal without going overboard (keep it classy ladies) but is still simple enough to be dressed up elsewhere. I decided to pair it with the following:

• The Dolce Vita Orella Wedge Sandal - Perfect for some added height without sacrificing comfort. And they're hella cute huh? What I love about wedges are that they're easy to walk in and your foot is still pretty leveled so you aren't killing your feet even if you do have to walk around.

• This Floral Chiffon Kimono - I picked this because I tend to get cold easily (yes, even when it's warm) so I like to have something, even if it's light, to cover up with. For someone who wears a lot of black, I tend to wear accents of color instead of making it the centerpiece of my outfit. Although florals are the staple of spring fashion, my favorite part about this kimono is that it can be dressed up or down depending on the shoes and jewelry you pair it with. It's light enough to be worn during the day, yet has the long sleeves for those cooler nights. Pair with a leather jacket over it if it's really cool out, to edge up the look.

• I tend to carry A LOT of things with me (yes, I'm one of those) and that goes back to me always being on the go or up to something. I just feel more comfortable having the essentials with me, don't you agree? :) So that being said I picked the Dailylook Coringstone Vegan Leather Satchel to accompany the overall look. If you haven't noticed yet, versatility is a huge selling point for me. This can be worn without the strap as a handbag, or with the strap for when you want to be hands free.

• Finally, accessories. You can definitely have free reign here depending on your own personal style. Me - I'm a lover of jewelry so I tend to stock up on them all. A nice simple watch is best, paired with a complimenting bracelet is a simple and clean way to add some jewelry to your look. If you want more, definitely go with edgy earrings to contrast the elegant florals and the simple black. If you really want to go the extra mile, dress up those fingers! You can go simple, trendy, or bold. Me? I like them all! If you're going to wear a bold ring, be sure to balance it with simpler ring styles and mix and match which fingers you put them on. 

Now that you've got the outfit down, don't forget to protect those eyes! Choose a frame that matches best with your face shape to really pull your look together, and plus they look pretty badass ;) I have a rounder face with pretty high cheekbones, so a cat eye works best for me since it draws the eye away from the face. 

What do you think of this look? What would you change or keep? 

Comment below and share your opinion!

If you're interested in creating your own LBD look, check out their collection here!

How many of you started taking advantage of the nicer weather?

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!

Remember, stay maganda! <3

-K

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Mascara Heaven!

The question many of us girls ask ourselves is: What is the best mascara?

I'm sure when you ask yourself that question, there's an array of mascaras that come to mind, but each with a minor setback. Maybe it doesn't curl enough, or doesn't add enough volume, and then you're stuck settling right? Because, I mean, is there really a perfect mascara?

The answer is YES - and thanks to a friend, I have finally found that mascara straight from heaven.

Introducing: Younique 3D Fiber Lashes

 

Now what I absolutely LOVE about this mascara is that it's super easy to get those dreamlike long, thick lashes you've always dreamed of, and it's so easy! No serums, no strict rules, and no extensions.

What this two-step formula has is the primer/sealer and the fibers. I can't stress enough that you have to see it to believe it, but the added fibers attach to your existing lashes and literally extend your lashes. It's a three step process: Prime, Apply, and Seal.

If you're looking for a mascara that lengthens AND noticeably adds volume, definitely try this mascara! Right now you can purchase it through a "presenter" or directly from their website for only $29, and trust me, it's worth every penny.

Stay maganda<3

-K

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Update + Look Of The Day

Hi Guys,

I know I've been MIA as of lately and that is because I've been juggling sooo much on my plate lately. Minor backstory -- I work full time, go to grad school part time, and I also freelance in addition to managing my blog and my other social media sites. ALSO, (for those who don't know - I have lupus) I've been managing my crazy symptoms that have been all over the place ever since the weather changed to super cold and the stress of school/work has started catching up with me. *Pause to breath*

Oh, side note -- I started a lupus blog where I log my daily feelings, tips, inspiration, whatever just happens to pop into my head. Check it out if you'd like - LA VIDA LUPIE.

ANYWAY, back to beauty related topics, here is my look of the day:

Because my health has been all over the place lately, I'm usually really exhausted by the time Friday rolls around (definitely not 18 anymore!) so I opt for simpler makeup looks. Today I wanted to dress up my eyes a little more with gray, and balanced out the washed out eye with a red lip stain for some color. Quick, easy, fresh and clean - perfect for work or school.

What's your favorite look to end a busy week?

Stay maganda<3

-K

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How To: Pair Your Makeup

Learning how to properly pair your makeup is a staple skill to learn if you plan to wear it. This is how you can avoid the infamous "clown face" that you see many makeup novices sporting. The best way to know is to ask yourself - "Which feature do I want to focus on"?

LIPS

If you want to accentuate those lips, pair a bold lip color with soft eyes. Dark lips are a staple for the colder seasons like purples, plums, and deep reds! If you depend on eyeliner to make your eyes appear bigger, use a beige or white pencil on your lower lash line. This makes the whites of your eyes appear larger, hence bigger eyes! 

EYES

Bring attention to your eyes with a sexy smokey eye or, if you want to keep it simple, thick eyeliner. Pair that with a natural or nude lip color - soft pinks, mauves, and nudes are perfect options. If you're not into lipstick, opt for a lip stain or a tinted lip gloss! 

As you can see, pairing your makeup is about maintaining balance. Pick a feature you want to show off and keep everything else in the background. Of course, that doesn't mean that you can't have fun with your makeup still!

Which look do you like better?

Stay maganda<3

-K

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My Updated Hair Care Routine

Tadaaaa! Okay it's time to reveal my "hair secret" to the world! *drum roll*......

Okay guys, it's really not much of a secret... I really just baby my hair and take special care of it because I use heat on it daily (I know, I know, major hair faux pas) but hey, that's why I baby it so much.

So if I use heat on my hair on a daily basis? Then how does my hair come out like this:

 Because I protect and nourish it.

What I don't do:

-Tie my hair in a tight pony tail or bun

-Drink soda or sugary drinks

-Towel dry my hair after the shower

What I do:

-Drink lots of water everyday

-Take multivitamins

-Use heat protectant

-Use a hair mask once a week

My main hair products

 I've been using the Shiseido Tsubaki Oil Shining Shampoo and Conditioner for over a year and noticed an almost instant improvement to my hair texture and overall health. Believe it or not, my hair was severely damaged from lightening it for the "ombré" trend. A friend told me about this brand and so I gave it a shot. It is pricey, but it lasts you an entire year (or more!) depending on how often you wash your hair. A bonus is the scent - I just can't get over how good it smells!

The other product I highly recommend is the L'Oreal Sleek It Iron Straight Heatspray. Before I stumbled upon this gem, I was using the Tresemmé Heat Tamer Spray (interchanged between the regular and the Keratin infused one) which were fine, but I noticed it wasn't making my hair as sleek as it was if I were to skip the spray (because the shampoo/conditioner made my hair sleek on its own) so I wanted to try something new and I'm glad I did!

My tips for you

1) Remember that what you put into your body is reflected on the outside. Drinking plain water every day will reflect positively on your skin and your hair. 

2) Instead of using a towel to vigorously rub your strands dry, use an old t-shirt and gently press/pat your strands dry. Then if you want, gently wrap it up while you finish your morning or nighttime routine. I usually take it out of the wrap after 5-10minutes and let it air dry.

3) Know the ingredients in your hair products and ensure that there is nothing in them that can harm your specific hair type. Remember - not all hair products are created equal!

4) On the contrary of popular belief, switching up your products constantly doesn't actually benefit your hair. If it works, why change it?

5) If you are one of those who skips a day (or two) of washing, make sure you use a clarifying shampoo at least once a week to remove any buildup from hair products. Clarifying shampoos deep clean your scalp and hair better than a regular shampoo.

6) ALWAYS condition your hair. Even if you have thin or fine hair. Shampoo dries your hair out because of the lather, which is necessary to actually clean the hair. Replenish moisture by choosing a conditioner made for your hair type.

Those are my hair tips for today! I hope you learned something or will try some of these tips in your daily hair routine :)

Leave a comment below with any questions or additional advice/tips!

Stay maganda <3
-k


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Look of the Day: Tired Face

Yesterday I was feeling super tired because I've actually been doing a lot of running around lately between work, school, working out and miscellaneous tasks. People often compliment me on how "awake" and put together I look and I feel kind of guilty sometimes saying that it was nothing, haha! So I figured that I'd start sharing my random tips and tricks that I use so that I can always look my best because every day brings something new and different - you never know who you will run into!

Here's the look I went for:

The trick to looking awake, even when you haven't gotten much rest, is to brighten up your face and eyes. I used a light beige eyeliner on the inner corner of my eye, which fakes the appearance of a larger eye, and then rocked a red lip to really bring some bright color to my face. 

I typically keep my makeup simple on a day to day basis since I usually just go to work and then head home. However, if I'm meeting someone for dinner or drinks afterwards, it's best to refresh your face with some color on your lips or shimmer/highlighter on the inner corner of your eyes and your lids!

What's your go-to look?

Stay maganda <3
-k


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Black Is My Favorite Shade

Wednesday once said "I'll stop wearing black when they invent a darker color"

If you know me or have seen my fashion "style" then you may have noticed that I wear A LOT of black. My younger sister often teases me that when you open my closet it just looks like a black hole...but hey, I won't deny it.

I used to think it was weird to love so much black, but over the years I started to just embrace my love of it! It's mysterious, it's chic, and hey - it goes with everything! What's to hate?

I don't feel ashamed or "gothic" for loving so much black, it's just a personal preference I have. I love how I look in black and lately I've added my "pop of color" with the use of accessories or makeup (red lips, oh heyy!) 

 

So power to Wednesday for paving the way for those of us intrigued by the darkest of shades. Because at the end of the day, it's just a shade people, not a way of life.

You may be thinking what point I'm trying to make and it's simple – just be you.

It's great to be back to blogging! Until next time!

What's your favorite or go-to color?

Stay Maganda <3

-k

Same color, different outfits! Get creative :)

Cali Lovin

New video is LIVE on my Youtube channel!

The thing I love about the West coast is how laid back they seem. Being born & raised in New York, I'm accustom to the hustle & bustle of the big city where everyone's doing something all the time. Everyone tries to stand out in their own way over here.

I love the natural aspect of this look. Don't you?

Thumbs up, Favorite, & Subscribe for more videos!!!

Enjoy & Stay Maganda <3
-K

How to: Nude Nails

I got a request on my Facebook page to show how to paint your nails using sheer nude colors. I took it a step further and showed how you can personalize your nails. Let me know what you think!

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Good luck & Stay maganda <3
-K

Banishing Dark Circles!

Okay, we all know that sleep is SUPER important for a flawless complexion and is also the secret to fighting off those pesky dark circles.

But, if you're a night owl like me (and you often find yourself staying up late) or you're in school pulling an all nighter, here are some tips to fake that "wide-awake" look.

Invest in a tone corrector.
A tone corrector palette (or even some concealer palettes) usually comes with these four colors - pink, yellow, green, and blue. It's used to contrast the colors existing on your face already.

Quick art lesson - Color theory:
Green is the opposite of Red (counteracts redness). Orange is the opposite of Blue (counteracts dark circles). Yellow is the opposite of Purple (also counteracts dark circles).

For my dark circles I mixed the pink and yellow colors to make a "light orange" or "skin-like color" and applied this prior to applying my concealer.

The one I use is from e.l.f (eyes. lips. face.) and it only cost me $3! I picked this one up at my local Target, but you can purchase it from their website as well or any other beauty stores that carry e.l.f. products.

Invest in a good concealer targeting dark circles.
It's important to purchase a concealer that is meant for dark circles/under-eye area because they usually have added properties in them that are meant for that delicate area.



This way, it's not just covering up, but helping the area as well. You'll start to see less noticeable dark circles with frequent use. You don't have to break your bank account either because the drug store brands have improved tremendously throughout the years.

I've used both the Maybelline Dark Circle Eraser and the Garnier Dark Circle Roller. I highly recommend both products because they work equally as well. Whichever one you end up choosing depends on your brand preference. The Maybelline one is less expensive and it also comes in more shades. The Garnier one comes in a fair/light shade and a medium/deep shade. Both have added properties to help awaken the under eye area.

I use these concealers everyday (interchanging between the two) and I use the tone corrector for those days where I barely got sleep the night before. See which one works for you - but remember to get SLEEP!

How do you get rid of your dark circles? Is there one brand you prefer over the other?

Good luck & Stay Maganda! <3
-K

New year, new goals!

It's 2013, a new year, meaning it's time to make some changes!

I've started out by changing my mission, which can be seen in my About page.

To summarize, I wanted to reiterate why I originally started sharing makeup, hair, and overall beauty tips. I was diagnosed with Lupus when I was 19 (turning 20) back in 2010. In order to cope with the sudden lifestyle changes I had to make, I created my YouTube page. I shared simple, easy makeup tutorials for those who needed quick morning routines. I was a college student at the time and so naturally I was targeting those in school like myself, but I was also trying to help those who possibly could have been going through the same thing I was (or similar).

After my diagnosis, I lost a great deal of my self-confidence because my appearance started to change drastically and fast. That's why my goal was to boost confidence.

Next month (Feb.) it will mark 3 years that I've had Lupus. And although my appearance has gone back to its original state (pre-Lupus) my mindset is still the same since that first Youtube video. I know several people who lack confidence in themselves and don't see how truly beautiful they are. Hence why my goal remains the same. I've gained the confidence I lost back and moving forward I want to help others achieve the same :)

Here's to an amazing start to a new year - 2013, let's do big things!

Stay Maganda <3
-K

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas everyone!! And for those who don't celebrate Christmas, Happy Holidays!!! :)

Here's my look for Christmas Eve (left) and Christmas Day (right).

On the left, it was all about the red lipstick. On the right, it was all about the eyes.

Which look is your favorite to wear?

Have a safe and happy holiday! Hope it was filled with lots of joy, happiness, and most importantly fun!

Stay maganda! <3
-K

Holiday Glam!

Need a last minute look for the holidays? Check out my day to night video! Depending on your personal style, you can go natural or bold.
Enjoy!

Video:

Stay Maganda & Happy Holidays!! <3
-K

Trying to lose weight?

If you are trying to lose weight or want to maintain healthier eating habits, eat blueberries!

Why?
Blueberries are actually very high in (good) fiber and also have a high water content. So, essentially you will feel fuller longer. It also helps that they are so delicious and can be mixed with anything!

I like to eat blueberries in homemade smoothies and as a snack with other berries, or by itself. You can also eat them in cereal or oatmeal.

Foods with a high water content are good because sometimes when you feel "hungry" you're actually thirsty! If you still feel hungry after eating foods with water or drinking something, then that's how you know your body needs food instead.

Always drink something when you feel hungry so that you can make sure that you're actually hungry and not mistaking it for possible dehydration. This is guaranteed to prevent over-eating.

"So what if I don't like blueberries"
If you don't like blueberries, then opt for other foods high in fiber and with a high water content:
Spinach, apples, citrus fruits, or other berries - just to name a few.

Remember, the trick to healthy eating is picking foods that can benefit your body in multiple ways.

What's your favorite healthy snack?

Happy eating & Stay maganda!<3
-K

Don't forget to like me on Facebook for regular updates & tips!

I got my ipsy Glam Bag in the mail yesterday and made a review with some first impressions too! As always, these opinions are my own and are as honest as possible.

Also, this is actually my FIRST glam bag! I never made the investment before, but with their new facelift on the site and everything, I decided to give it a try. So let's hope things will work out. My overall opinion about this month's glam bag is positive. I am pleased with the products included, my favorite being the hair oil (see video).

This month's Glam bag enables you to be a "Bombshell" So get sexy ladies!

Here is the review:

I will be making a "bombshell" look using the products included in the bag so stay tuned!

Any Glam Bag users out there? What are your thoughts on this month's glam bag?
Share below or on my Facebook page!

Stay Maganda<3
-K

It's been a while since I've added posts to the "Back to Basics" category so here we are again with a new addition: Polka Dot Dresses

Here I paired it with a skinny belt to define the waist and black tights because it's cold today in NY. The scarf is just an added flair.

For those of you who think you can't wear one, you're thinking too much into it. Polka dots (unlike stripes) look good on anyone because it's a simple, small, subtle design that's added to a plain piece.

The reason why this dress would be considered a basic is well, it's a dress. It's only one piece that you ladies can slip on and be out the door! It's perfect for when you're rushing in the morning or suffering from morning blues, or you're just stuck on what outfit to wear.

The completed look: black pumps, black cardigan, statement earrings.
Makeup: basic black eyeliner, matte rose lipstick, brows filled, matte face.

I'm wearing this outfit at work. It's a corporate office with a "business casual" dress code. However, business casual doesn't mean sacrificing basic, yet fashionable pieces!

What's your go-to basic attire? Share it in the comments below or on my Facebook page!

Stay Maganda<3
-K

So during my hiatus not too much has changed, but I did make some new major purchases and have new styles due to the fall season. Let's see....

Well, I cut my own hair which I've been doing for over a year now. Now I have bangs!

This look was cut & styled by yours truly.
The glasses were purchased from Style Suzi's online store.  These have become my favorite accessory ever since I got them in the mail (about 2 weeks ago).
I usually rock bangs during colder months because my face doesn't get as oily due to the drier air so the look is more low maintenance.

Here's my OOTD from yesterday.

I actually wore my hair down the entire day, this was taken at the end of the day where I usually just throw my hair up in a messy bun.
Still cute though, huh? ~.^
I paired this look with a hooded leather jacket and my favorite wedge sneakers (see below).

These sneakers came sometime towards the end of last month. They resemble the Isabel Marant wedge sneakers, and in my opinion they are pretty much the same, minus the price tag.

These can be paired with pretty much any outfit since black can be rocked with anything.
I wear them with skinny jeans, jeggings, leggings, and even the tights & shorts combo!
They're super comfortable, you forget you're even wearing heels (no joke.) These give me a good 2.5 inches extra :)

What's new with you? I'd love to hear/see it - share below or on my Facebook page!

Stay Maganda!<3
-K

Hi everyone, I'm back!

I know I've been gone for quite some time now from the blogging scene. That's because I started graduate school and have been swamped balancing that and a full time job. In my miniscule free time slots, I've been posting quick updates on my Facebook page and have become a super frequent Tweeter!

I definitely recommend following me on one of those (or better yet, both) as I still manage to get out those quick tips/tricks and you can also stay up to date with me in real time!

I have a bunch of things that are being edited or still waiting to be filmed/edited like:
-Specific product reviews (Filmed. Currently being edited)
-Favorite drugstore products (To be filmed.)
-Everyday face routine (Filmed. Currently being edited)
-Halloween makeup (To be filmed.)
-Eyeliner 101 (Filmed. Being edited.)
-Regretful purchases (To be filmed.)

These are all videos so I can revive my Youtube page once again. In the meantime, check out my latest video "Lazy nails"!

What would you like to see? Hair, Skincare tips, Product first impressions, makeup, nails?

Let me know on my Facebook page or leave me a comment below.

Remember beauties, Stay Maganda!<3
-K

This question has been heard among women (and men) who strive to have longer locks for a very long time. However, have you been following a mere myth or is it actually proven and true?

  

MYTH or FACT:
Hair grows faster and longer if you get it trimmed regularly.

>MYTH<

Yes, this is a myth. Hair cannot grow longer physically if you are getting it trimmed often. Your hair grows (on average) 1/2 inch each month, and if you're cutting off your hair every 6-8 weeks, of course you won't seen any progress in growth because your hair is staying at the same length or starting at a shorter length (depending on how much you chopped off.)

Simple - hair will not grow faster if it is getting cut off. The speed it grows will remain the same as it was prior to trimming.

Clearing up the myth - They say to cut your hair to make it grow because trimming your hair will get rid of split ends. However, if you tend and baby your hair every single day, the amount of split ends you actually have will decrease immensely. So in the end you won't need haircuts or trims as often.

So how can you grow your hair? Check out these tips on how to get longer locks.

Just remember ladies (and gentlemen), growing your hair takes time, depending on how long you want it to be. As long as you keep your hair healthy and are preventing breakage, you will notice less hair breaking off, leaving you with luscious, healthy, long hair!

Good luck & Stay Maganda<3
-K

Happy Sunday Funday everyone!

Today's outfit is a crop top from my friend's graphics line -- Sucksess and a high waisted shorts. To balance the darker tones, I added a pop of color with the pink belt.

The shirt - I'MMATURE - is a clever play on words for young adults who are still kids on the inside. I know that's how I feel most of the time. I'm also one of those people who reminisces about her childhood often. How many of you also miss your childhood sometimes?

Definitely check out the website for some awesome graphic tees, tanks, stickers, and even hats. And just like every up & coming company, there will soon be more to come. They're currently having a "Back to Cruel" sale so grab these hot items while they're cheaper!

Also, continue to have a safe and happy Labor day weekend!!

What were/are your plans for the long weekend?

Stay Maganda!<3
-K

*My affiliation with Sucksess is simply a good friend who offers to promote products. I do not get paid to promote. Anything I say about the merchandise is my truest and honest opinion.*