Saturday, August 18, 2012

How to wear colored denim


Virtually overnight, colored denim has become the biggest trend to hit the streets. Personally, I love the trend — it’s a great way to switch up your denim uniform, and the bright, cheerful colors are perfect for spring and summer! As with any trend, though, figuring out how to wear it (without spending a ton of money) can always be a problem.
Below, I’ve come up with four awesome ways to rock candy-colored jeans with items that are probably already in your closet. Read on, ladies!

1. Try It with a Neutral

You can never go wrong when pairing any colored (or patterned!) pair of pants with a black, white, cream, brown, or tan top. Any pair of bright jeans would look awesome with a white button-down dress shirt, a sheer black silk shirt, or a cream-colored cardigan sweater. This technique is a good way to feel out your new pants and ease into wearing them.
For the example outfit below, I paired coral skinnies with a chambray top — it’s like a regular denim-and-pastel outfit, with a twist! Because the base of the outfit is so classic looking, don’t be afraid to add a few bold accessories, like a snakeskin bag and turquoise jewelry. Finish with a pair of fun wedges and you’re good to go!
2. Colorblock
Colorblocking – which means pairing solid-colored, bright pieces together – has been such a hot trend over the past few seasons. It’s a bold style move for sure.
If you’re unsure about which color combos to try, I will put up another post of ideas soon. But really, so long as you pair your colored jeans with another solid, bold color, you’ll look trendy and fun, not clashy.
When colorblocking, I think it looks the coolest when you combine pastels with other pastels, and bolder colors with other bolds. In the example outfit below, notice that the three colors are all equally bold. Since the outfit is a loud statement on its own, finish the look with classic accessories, like pearl stud earrings and a classic investment timepiece.

3. Pair It with a Print

Another fun way to rock your colored jeans is to pair them with a bold print. Polka dots, nautical stripes, floral prints, and geometric prints would all look really trendy and playful!
For this outfit below, I thought mint green pants would look awesome paired with a leopard print blouse. The chocolate and black tones make the green look extra bright! Again, keep your accessories somewhat simple — crystal earrings and a mint colored bangle will look fancy, but not over-the-top. Finish with ballet flats and some pink lipstick for extra brightness!

4. Add a Springtime Jacket

The sun might be up and the sky might be blue, but for most of us, April and May weather can be unexpectedly chilly. A great way to wear your colored jeans during this transition time is to pair them with a light jacket. A jean jacket, light trench coat, cardigan, or blazer will look season-appropriate, and keep you protected from harsh winds or light rain.
For the outfit below, I paired light pink jeans with a white blazer. A floral shirt will look cute peeking out from under the jacket. Depending on what sort of event you’re going to, pair the look with heels or ballet flats. This snappy casual outfit is perfect for lunching with parents, a date, class, or even just running errands!

What Do You Think?

Do you have a pair of colored jeans yet? What are your favorite things to wear with them? Do you think this trend will be back next year, or is it more of a one-season sort of trend? Do you colorblock very often? What other styling challenges or problems have you run into lately? Tell me what you think!

Monday, August 13, 2012

How to Mix & Match!

Color Code: How to Mix & Match

Let’s face it, color and summer go together like the ocean and sand, but when it comes to mixing and matching your favorite brights, the task can sometimes seem a bit daunting. In high school my closet was made up of 90% black and grey pieces, mainly because I was terrified to stand out. Not only was I scared to wear color, I didn't know how to mix it either. It wasn't until college that I learned the basic rules of color mixing and I gained the confidence to stray from my go-to shades of grey.

This summer no hue is off limits and I think its super important that we all make mental notes of the basic color rules to prevent overdosing on a crazy color concoction. Some of my favorite things about having been a fashion major were getting to play with different textures and shades. In my aesthetics and textile classes I learned fashion rules that I still refer to everyday!

In school, I always had a color wheel tucked into my notebook to help on various projects. Nowadays, I've got the wheel completely memorized, which is extremely helpful, especially when I'm at the mall trying to quickly pull together an outfit for an upcoming event. Whether you have a go-to color combination, enjoy the classics, or you’re crushing on trendy palettes like neons or pastels, simple color rules can easily help you style and accessorize an editorial-worthy look in mere seconds. 
Color Code: How to Mix & Match
I came across this blog and liked it so I'm sharing it with you..


Accessory Report: Rock Candy Jewelry
by Lauren Conrad


Accessory Report: Rock Candy Jewelry
I truly believe that accessories can make or break an outfit. That said, a true fashionista can differentiate between the accents that are worth spending a pretty penny on and those of-the-moment adornments that are okay to pass up. In today’s case—curating a little body candy is a must for summer and fall…and luckily, it’s a trend you don’t have splurge on.

Lately I’ve spotted many rhinestone pieces that come in bright, punchy colors and I love the unexpected, candy-coated look. Not only do these brightly hued jewels liven up an otherwise dull outfit, they instantly add a playful yet interesting touch, giving your look a bit more depth and freshness. To give you a glimpse of this sweet trend, I’ve pulled together some of my favorite rock candy finds in the collage below:
Accessory Report: Rock Candy Jewelry

If you already have some clear crystal costume pieces you can update them by glossing the stones with some nail polish. This is a simple way to update your accessories and try out this trend without spending a dime.
Accessory Report: Rock Candy Jewelry
Friday Favorites
Hello there fellow sunshiners!
I know I may be a little late but a few days ago was
National S'mores Day!
&& because of that, I decided to post this little recipe for


Sweet Tooth: S’mores Bars
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It’s National S’more Day! If you are like us, this is hands down the best random national holiday. Forget National Cupcake Day and National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day…to us, there’s nothing quite like the melted goodness of gooey chocolate and fluffy marshmallows sandwiched between two crunchy graham crackers. Mmm! Is your mouth watering yet? 

To properly observe this holiday we decided to whip up some s’mores. Not just any s'mores... Seriously Amazing S'mores Bars. Just as all of our favorite baking adventures start, we poked around on Pinterest and found a few recipes that we transformed into our very own. Check out the recipe below. Give it a try and let us know what you think!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups flour
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 king size milk chocolate bars 
  • 1 1/2 - 2 cups marshmallow fluff
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add in egg and vanilla.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, graham cracker crumbs, salt, and baking powder.
  4. Pour butter mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
  5. Split dough in half and press half of it firmly into the bottom of an squaregreased, glass baking pan (we used an 8x8 inch pan) so it forms an even layer on the bottom of the pan. (Tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the layer flat and even.)
  6. Layer on the two king size chocolate bars.
  7. Evenly spread marshmallow fluff over the top of the chocolate bars, cover the entire surface—all the way to the sides.
  8. Roll out other half of dough and then place on top of the marshmallow. You’ll want it to be one single, smooth layer.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
  10. Let the bars cool all the way before cutting. We know it’s nearly impossible to resist the urge of tasting them ASAP, but trust us…if you let them cool, they will be MUCH easier to cut up.
Happy (Belated) National S’more Day!
ENJOY!

Thursday, August 9, 2012

TheReddivision; Mindless Behavior - Hello

Was browsing through videos on YouTube and came across this.
I thought it is was cute so I decided to post it. Enjoy!

  1. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids. This includes salmon, flax seeds, and walnuts. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids have been known to give skin an almost instant glow. These foods can also help reduce inflammation, so any blemishes you do have won’t be quite so red. I love making grilled salmon for dinner. Adding flaxseed to a fresh fruit smoothie is another simple way to boost your omega-3s. 
     
  2. Antioxidant filled foods. It’s no surprise that antioxidant foods are great for your health, but they also give your skin an extra dose of goodness too. Antioxidant rich foods like cherries, berries, green tea and spinach attack free radicals in your body that cause skin damage and breakouts. Eating a handful of berries or a spinach salad is a yummy way to add antioxidants into your daily food routine. 
     
  3. Foods rich in selenium. Brazil nuts, almonds, onion, garlic, and whole grains are all sources of selenium, which is also a powerful antioxidant. These foods help preserve your skin’s elasticity and reduce inflammation. Just eating a handful of almonds a day is an easy way to up your selenium intake.
     
  4. Foods rich in vitamin C. Melons, oranges, tomatoes, and strawberries all boost your immune system and strengthen your cell walls. These foods will help protect your skin from acne scarring and activate healing powers to amend damaged or irritated skin.
     
  5. Foods rich in vitamin E. This category includes nuts, soybeans, almonds, leafy greens and eggs. Vitamin E rich foods also help protect your skin from scarring. An easy way to get your daily dose is by drizzling olive oil on a salad or using it to cook.
     
  6. Foods in high water content. This means…drink water, water and more water! Keeping your body hydrated is one of the best things you can do for yourself. And this healthy habit translates to your skin too. In addition to drinking your 8 glasses a day (a daily requirement in my book!), eating foods with a high water content like watermelon and cucumbers, and also parsley will free your system of toxins as well.
     
  7. Foods rich in vitamin A. Foods that give your body vitamin A are rich in beta-carotene, which enhances the benefits of selenium—that powerful antioxidant I mentioned earlier. Your skin will thank you if you include carrots, bell peppers, cantaloupes, and sweet potatoes into your daily diet.
     
  8. Foods high in magnesium. These foods are awesome acne fighters because magnesium helps to balance out acne-inducing hormones. Try munching on artichokes, oatmeal, brown rice, and figs to get hormonal acne under control.
     
  9. Low sodium foods. Foods that are packed with salt not only make your body bloat up like a balloon, they also wreak havoc on your skin. To avoid pimples from flaring up, try to limit the amount of processed or prepared foods in your diet. Substituting canned or frozen vegetables with fresh ones can make a huge difference. You will alsofeel so much better if you eat “clean foods” that are unprocessed and have low sodium.
     
  10. White foods are the wrong foods. Foods like white bread, white rice, white refined flour, French fries, and mashed potatoes are some of the worst things to have in your diet if you want clear skin. Refined sugar is another culprit in this category because it makes your blood sugar levels spike, which then causes acne outbreaks. No thank you!Stick to whole grains and brightly colored fruits and veggies like these no-bloat foods. If anything else, just remember this: White foods are not the right foods if you want clear skin.
I don’t know about you, but this list has completely recalibrated my shopping list. I love putting these types of blogs together because I learn so much as I am researching them… I guess the bottom line here is really something that we’ve all been told since day one: “You are what you eat.” And now we’ve got a list t prove it! So stick to this list of skin-pretty foods and I promise you will feel beautiful inside and out.

Which acne fighting food is your favorite? Personally, I’m partial to spinach, eggs and berries.

Marques Houston - Circle

This song is kinda old now but Ive always wanted to learn how to play this song on the piano...
I'll get to it eventually. I really like the instrumental to this song soo Im posting it, just because <3

Wednesday, August 8, 2012


For those of you who are planning a summer barbeque or simply a night in with friends, this is a must-serve cocktail. But, if alcohol isn’t for you, just swap out the liquor for sparkling water or Sprite. It’s just as delicious!

Pink Grapefruit Margaritas
Barefoot Contessa: How Easy Is That?
Pink Grapefruit Cocktail
Serves 4

Ingredients
  • 1 cup ruby red grapefruit juice
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 cup triple sec orange liqueur
  • 3 cups ice
  • 1 cup silver tequila
  • 1 lime cut into wedges 
  • Kosher salt

The OMG Girlz - Where The Boys At?

From London C..


When I have the time, I like to whip up a nice breakfast for myself. Usually, I make an egg white omelet with vegetables.  This makes for a great breakfast because the egg whites are full of protein and the veggies have lots of nutrients and fiber. 
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Below is the basic recipe I follow. Needles to say, I do mix it up based on what vegetables are in season and, more importantly, what’s available in my refrigerator. Sometimes I’ll have the omelet with a side of toast and berries depending on how much time I have…

Note: This recipe makes one omelet.

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup egg whites (sometimes I add in a full egg, with the yolk)
  • 1 handful of baby spinach
  • ¼ teaspoon (about a pinch) onion powder
  • ¼ cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • ¼ cup shredded low fat (or skim) grated mozzarella cheese 
  • Note: A few vegetables I like to sub in are steamed asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli.
Instructions
  1. In a bowl, beat together the egg whites, spinach and onion powder.
  2. In a small skillet coated with olive oil cooking spray over medium heat, pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. 
  3. Flip with spatula and cook another 2 minutes. (At this point it will look like a big egg pancake. Yum!)
  4. Reduce heat to low and sprinkle on cheese and cherry tomatoes and then fold omelet in half (one side over the other). Cook for another minute or so to allow cheese to melt and then serve. 
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!
This omelet is really simple, quick, and very easy to make! Plus, it’s a great way to kick start your day. The best part? You’ll notice that the egg + veggie combo will keep you feeling full longer.

Keyshia Cole - Enough Of No Love ft. Lil Wayne

Go for the Gold...!

Seeing as the Olympics are in full swing I thought it might be fun to do a blog inspired by the games—particularly those covetable golden medals. Since summer is winding down, it’s time to start thinking transitionally. One of my favorite accents to wear this time of year is gold. I like to sprinkle it into my looks by adding a gilded hairpiece or glossing my nails with a sparkly golden polish. It’s a finish that works well for both summer and fall, which is why it is such a lovely, transitional choice for this time of year. 

All you need is a little pop of sparkle to make an otherwise simple outfit truly shine. Whether it’s the line of an eye, the glow of a sun kissed cheek, the sparkle of an unexpected barrette or the gleam of a golden nail, adding a Midas touch is never a bad idea…


Melanie Fiona - This Time ft. J. Cole

I don’t know about you but I’ve heard so many differing opinions when it comes to getting the perfect shave. Some have said it’s best to do in a cold shower so you get goose bumps to raise the hair, resulting in a closer shave. Others have argued that it’s a job best left for the end of a steamy shower because the hair is softened. Well ladies, the verdict is no longer out. I did some research and put together this guide to ensure you’re shaving the smart way…
Your Ammo
  • The Right Razor: Use a razor with a moisture strip containing aloe, jojoba or acai. I like Gillette Venus. But I’ve heard that Schick Quattro for Women is supposed to be just as good. Since razors dull over time, be sure to replace your razor after every 5-6 uses. 
  • Get a Loofa: It will exfoliate your gams as you apply shave gel or cream before shaving.
  • Gel or Cream It: Instead of basic soap, use a moisturizing shave gel or cream. Your stems need all the moisture they can get and gels/creams not only hydrate, they also allow for a closer, smoother shave. Simply Mahvelous Legs Shave Cream by Kiehl’s is great. 
  • Bump-Free Lotion: After you shave and pat yourself dry, use an alcohol-free lotion to avoid irritating your freshly shaved legs and those unsightly red “razor burn”” bumps. 100% pure Shea Butter is always a good bet. 
How to Shave
  • Temp: Warm. Hot water leaches moisture from your skin. 
  • When: At the end of your shower. This way your hair and skin will have time to soften.
  • How: Start from your ankles and shave up. You want to make sure you are shaving against the hair growth. As for your underarms, shave at every angle. I have found that shaving up and down and then in an “X” does the trick. 
Extra Tips
  • Exfoliate: Since shaving actually exfoliates your skin, only exfoliate your legs with a scrub about once or twice a week depending on how often you shave. If you have particularly coarse hair, it’s a good idea to exfoliate a little more than average.
  • Bump Watch: If you are prone to ingrown hairs, try using a cleanser with glycolic acid or apply Tend Skin after shaving. 
  • Wax Perhaps: If you have especially thick hair you might want to consider waxing. Waxing is really great for the bikini area, underarms and lower legs.
Do you have any extra tips to share? Divulge in the comments below. Also, if you have found any great alcohol-free lotions, let me know!
XO Sunshine

Rick Ross - Touch 'N You ft. Usher


Okay lovebugs.. I know its been awhile since I've last been on here posting blogs and responding back to your emails. I am SOOOO sorry!! I've been soo busy! This summer has been very chaotic. I had to balance school, look for a new job, resolve some personal issues, and etc!! But I'm back!! I will try my hardest to post about all of your topics and requests in a timely manner from now on.

I hope everyone is enjoying their summer!!


Be on the look out for some new posts!!


On the regular, I usually post about 4-7 blogs in a day but because I have a high volume of requests, I will be posting more on the daily.


I will try my best to post blogs everyday from now on.. & on days that I don't, please bare with me. I will post your requests and topics of interest soon as I get the chance.


Thankx for the understanding..



Yours truly,
Sincerely Sunshine (:

2 Chainz - No Lie (Explicit) ft. Drake