Hair On My Mind

Let’s talk hair for the African American woman.  My hair has been pressed and permed all of my life, but that lifestyle over time damaged my hair.  Plus I was growing tired of it.  So I decided to go back to natural. When all of my relaxed hair was gone and I was left with my tightly curled kinky hair I knew I had to do something to it.  I wanted to keep the professional yet fun look but I just wasn’t sure how I was going to do it yet.  So I researched natural hair styles and I found great one to use.  The only issue at that point was “now how do you do that?”  I needed step by step visuals but I needed to see every moment of it so I went on youtube.com and searched for some tutorials. Now, you could use wigs, or weave for braids and sew-in’s, which I did, but I wanted to be free. So here are a few styles you can try:

• Twists – twists are very common for natural haired women.  They are really cute and easy to do.  It can take a few hours to do depending how big or small you want them so I’d advise that you pick a good day to get them done. Maybe a Saturday is best.
• Twist-out’s – twist-outs are the result of your twists being in for a period of time. (a week at the least)  It gives a nice curl and you can pin it if you’d like or even do a nice headband piece around the outside (keep it professional looking for work purposes)
• Braid-outs – braid-out’s are the done the same way as twist only in braids.  And it gives a nice wave curl.  You can also pin it this style or do a nice headband piece.
• Bantu knots – bantu knots are really cool especially when you take them down like the twists and braids.  You can wear it as a style or do a beautiful scarf style until they are dry and ready to be taken down.
• Bantu knot-out
• Scarf look

Video bloggers that I got my ideas from and I suggest you check out include

• Naptural815 (https://www.youtube.com/user/Naptural85)
• HairCrush (https://www.youtube.com/user/HairCrush/videos?view=0&flow=grid)
• Destiny Godley for scarf idea’s (https://www.youtube.com/user/destinygodley)

If you don’t like any of these then just browse youtube and see what works for you.  We have different grades of hair so find out yours and alter hairstyles for what best fits you.

Have you already been going natural and have some styles that you think work great?  Tell me! Comment below and tell me what your favorite styles are and how you worked them.

Withhold That Holiday Feeling: Twinkle Lights all Year Round!

Are you one of those people who hate seeing their Christmas lights come down at the end of the season? I can tell you I am! The house always feels so cozy and peaceful with all of the lights up around the holidays. Once you take them down it feels too empty and cold. There is something amazing about the feeling that a simple string of lights can give off. So instead of instead of having those sparkling twinkle-lights sit in a box and collect dust, I thought why not get some use out of them all year-round.

 

I first saw this idea on Tumblr a few years ago, and now have noticed that it is everywhere today. People are hanging their lights in bedrooms, living rooms, and even kitchens. So what is it about their presence that draws everyone in? I feel that it projects a certain feeling that is relaxing, peaceful, and somehow magical. It is the perfect amount of sparkle to brighten someone’s day.

 

Although many people are coming across this trend, there are still many ways to make your bedroom unique. You can choose white lights or colored lights. You can chose to border your room with them or create a design out of them. Whichever way you chose to decorate with them, twinkle lights will create an entirely new ambiance for your room.

 

Below are some great examples of twinkle lights in bedrooms. Each room still contains its own personality through the different ways the lights are used.  This ensemble can add just the amount of whimsicality you need in your every day life.

 

 

Now it’s your turn. If you currently use twinkle lights in your bedroom let everyone know how you styled them! Lots of pictures are more than welcome! For those that haven’t given twinkle lights a try yet, and are interested, take little ideas here and there from the examples you like to create an environment that fits you! 

-Autumn

Dreamin’ of Spring Break

Spring Break- a week where all the dumb kids go to Cancun and all the level headed people relax (urban dictionary)

Spring break is just around the corner!! Who’s excited?! I sure am!  I may not be going on a vacation to warmth, but I mean, how incredible does it sound to have a week off of school to just relax and enjoy some me time?!

Here is my list of activities I am hoping to do over break;

-Go to the art institute

-Go to the Lincoln Park zoo

-Try some new cafes and coffee shops

-Go on a walk every day

-Relax with friends

– Watch the newest award nominated movies

-Spend an entire day learning how to cook fish

-Make new friends

-Sleep past 10am

-Go to sleep before 10pm

-Read a book

-See a show (music/ theater…)

-Some light shopping (of course!)

-Take a day trip to Wisconsin or Indiana

And I’m sure this list will keep growing and growing all the way into summer break!  There are just so many things to do in Chicago and with all this free time I’m about to have I hoping to be able to all of this and more!

 

I would love to hear what your spring break plans are! Leave a comment below, we can even trade ideas!

Xoxo

Alli

Healthy insight: My favorite juices!

So lately I have been a little obsessed with juicing, and not for weight loss reasons but because of how great they make me feel! While you can take it to the extremes and substitue meals with juices I still prefer solids at mealtime. However, a healthy juice is the perfect compliment to a meal and and a great way to get your fruits and vegetables in for the day without the hassle of cooking them. 

Here are some of my juicing tips, and my favorite recipes! 

 

Juicing Tips:

1. Invest in a great quality juicer or blender

Yes, they can be pricey but once you make the investment in one you will find that you will use it regularly. For a blender I recommend the Vitamix 5200 and for a juicer I recommend the Breville JE98XL Juice Fountain.

 

 

I personally use the Vitamix 5200 because it is multipurpose and can be used for smoothies, and can be used as a food processor as well. It is very easy to use and clean, and very powerful. However, it is very pricey and this is a blender not a juicer. While the Vitamix’s blades will practically pulverize anything you put in it,  you are still not able to eliminate the pulp from the veggies completely like you would in the Breville. I personally like the extra fiber in my juices, and when I want to remove it I simply run my juice through a strainer. Both are amazing products that are going to get you the results you want. 

2. Avoid buying fruits and vegetables that aren’t organic.

This is also very important in that what you are putting in your juices, is exactly what is going to go in your body. Pesticides and other harmful chemicals included. 

3. Short on time? Prepare your vegetables and juices in advance! Simply cut up the vegetables and fruits in to the amounts necessary and throw them in individual ziploc bags. This will save you time and encourage you too juice! 

4. If you are having a hard time adjusting to the juicing-make a smoothie! 

Simply throw some ice, some non-fat greek yogurt and sweeten to taste with Agave Nectar and Honey. I also will throw a scoop of my favorite protein powder in there before a work out or on a morning where I’m running short on time! 

 

Favorite Juice Recipes: (Portions depends on amount of juice you would like!)

1. For a boost of energy in the morning or anytime during the day combine:

Apples, Carrots, Ginger, Lemon and Celery

2. For a cleanser or tummy soother combine:

Apples, Celery, Lemon, Cilantro, Kale, Parsley, Cucumber and Ginger

3. To boost your immune system:

Pineapple, Carrot, Lemon, Cilantro, Ginger

4. If you are looking to revive yourself after a night out try:

Carrots, Beets, Apples, Parsley, GInger, Kale and Lime. 

Note: If you are using the Vitamix make sure you are adding water depending on the amount of juice you want to make. For one portion, I like to use just about a cup. 

 

 

I hope you guys enjoyed this post, and are encouraged to try juicing if you already haven’t! For those of you that have, I hope you found some new recipes and tips to incorporate in your routine! I would love to hear from you guys if you have any other tips or recipes that you have either invented or come across! 

Happy juicing!

xoxo, 

Erika 

Spring Cleaning: Beauty Organization Tips!

Recently with spring coming, I have been very involved with organizing every aspect of my life. When I looked at all of my makeup and beauty products that I threw into my drawers I knew there had to be a way to de-clutter. Down below are some various tips and tricks I have learned to help organize your makeup and beauty essentials! This technique also helped me use up products I forget I ever had. If you are like me and have a beauty collection overflowing with tools and products, than organizing will help make your life easier!

1. Organizer with drawers!
   1. This is where I store most of my makeup. It holds the perfect amount for my collection, and it doesn’t take up too much counter space! I also like how it is clear so that I can see which drawers have which category of product in them. You can purchase this organizer here! ***Purchase here
2. Palette Storage!
   1. Use a napkin or letter holder to store your favorite palettes. This napkin holder holds all of my palettes perfect and gives my collection some style! I can now keep my favorite palettes out on my counter so I don’t store them away somewhere and forget about them.     *** Purchase here      
3. Makeup Brush Pots!
   1. Store makeup brushes in a cup or a vase to avoid losing them and prevent the bristles from crushing. Personalize your collection by choosing cup and pot designs that fit you! Throw some beads, bean bag filling, or small rocks into the bottom of the pots to add height and separate the brushes.
4. Hairstyling Organizer!
   1. Tired of untangling all of your cords for your blow dryer, straightener, and curling iron? I have always just thrown everything into a drawer and have lost valuable time in the morning untangling everything. This organizer from PBteen hangs on the wall and perfectly stores your everyday hairstyling tools. ***Purchase here                                                              
5. Everyday Makeup Storage!
   1. Use a smaller container to store makeup you gab on a day-to-day basis. This way they are easier to access in the morning rather than searching through your entire collection. In this compartment I like to keep my favorite concealer, foundation and bronzer. Also I keep my favorite eyeliner, mascara, and lip-gloss! ***Purchase here
6. Nail Polish Rack!
   1. Before I got my nail polish rack I was so tired of having to dig and dig in my basket every time I was looking for that one color. The nail polish rack brings salon quality organization straight to your bathroom. ***Click here to purchase a clear acrylic rack! ***Click here for a DIY tutorial on how to create your own!
7. Lipstick Holder!
   1. I recently purchased this holder from eBay and it has been my favorite product so far! I can now display my lipsticks and organize them by color, brand, and finish! ***Purchase here

Happy Cleaning 🙂 XoXo Autumn

There’s a “me” in tiME

As a business woman things can get really hectic and a woman can get consumed with her work.  If you’re not organized then it only makes things even more stressful and you won’t have time to do anything. 

While it’s good to be focused and dedicated to one’s work, it’s very important that we learn to balance. All work and no rest or “me time” is unhealthy for us physically and socially.  We are made to socialize and we need time to just rest and unwind.  Especially if we have friends and or family.  No one can get by without people around and no time to breath so below are just a few things I believe will help a woman to keep up with her work without skipping out on herself.

• Write everything down.  If you don’t have a planner/calendar then you need to get one or else use a digital one.  If you write everything down then you can get extra information out of your head and focus on what you’re presently working on. Also plan out what day’s you’ll accomplish what. Make it a plan like this and you’ll be able to keep up with your schedule.   It will bring down the stress and you won’t feel like you’ll never finish.
• Always check your planner/calendar.  It’s good to write it all down but if you don’t actually check it regularly then it’s useless.  Make it a point to check your planner/calendar at the same time each day and never agree to anything if you haven’t checked your planner/calendar first.  That way you’ll avoid overbooking.
• Practice being positive.  Negativity does not encourage creativity nor does it push you to do more and feel good about it.  Think about the things that are going right and not the things that seem wrong. This will help keep you motivated!
• Treat yourself! Pick a time that you’ll do a little something for yourself whether it be a lunch date with friends, an ice cream treat, or a pair of shoes.  Whatever it is do it because that will give you a chance to pause from working and enjoy something you like. I advise that you choose wisely so there are no regrets after.
• Take care of yourself.  Taking good care of your body will help with keeping you balanced and it makes you feel good from the inside out.  Exercise, healthy eating, dance, art, going on a bike ride; these are only a few things that can help keep you healthy and put a smile on your face. Do what makes you happy.

Now you’ve read some of my ideas but now I want to know yours.  So leave a comment and tell me what kinds of things you’ve tried and how they worked for you. Thanks for reading!

Style Inspiration: Chloë Sevigny

She’s quirky, fun, unique, different, cool, and super super fashionable!!  American born actress, designer, and (former) model Chloë Sevigny is one of the most eclectic chicks around.  Chloë became popular in the mid 1990’s and was named the new “it girl” by Sassy Magazine.  She isn’t afraid at all to try something new… and it always seems to look perfect!

Chloë’s fashion modeling career and strong love and interest in clothing are what led her to become a fashion designer.  Chloë started designing both mens and woman’s clothing for the clothing brand Opening Ceremony in 2009 and is presently doing that today.  Whether or not you love her style (which would be a little crazy if you didn’t), you have to admit she’s one awesome, talented, and stylish girl!!

“The fashion world is fascinated by her. Because not only is she talented, young and attractive, she stands out in a sea of often cliched looking actresses.” -Marc Jacobs

 

Comment below and tell me if you think you could pull off Chloë’s crazy style!!

Xoxo

Alli

 

Lorac Pro Palette VS. Urban Decay Naked 2

Ever tired of storing a bunch of single eye shadows and small palettes in your makeup drawer? Couldn’t find a pallet that was right for you?

I started hearing about Urban Decay’s Naked palette a couple years ago from YouTube beauty gurus. Recently the Naked2 came out and everyone started raving about it, not just from the YouTube network. The Naked2 palette is currently the best selling palette at Sephora with the Naked 1 following closely behind. So what makes these $50 eye shadow palettes so amazing?

Most of my friends and family would say it is because it is an everyday palette and would last you years. I gave in and received the Naked2 for Christmas last year. The colors are gorgeous for nighttime looks, however I still really wanted an everyday palette that can transfer eye shadow from day to night.

So I looked at Sephora again and in the running behind the Naked 1 and 2 was the Lorac Pro Palette. After reading a bunch of raving reviews I finally went out and bought the $42 palette. Ever since I have gotten it I have used it everyday, a lot more than my Naked 2.

Down below I have compared the two products with pictures and descriptions. I do love both palettes very much, however if you are the kind of person like me who wants a single everyday palette for multiple looks, the Lorac Pro is the way to go!

Packaging

The Naked2 comes in a metal tin that snaps which is good for travel!

The Lorac Pro Palette comes in very similar casing as the original Naked. The outside has a matte finish, similar to NARS products. The case is magnetic rather than snapping closed. The Lorac Pro Palette is a lot thinner than the Naked2.

Shadows

Lorac Pro:

8 matte 8 shimmer

white, cream, taupe, lt. pink, mauve, sable, espresso, black

nude, champagne, gold, lt bronze, pewter, garnet, deep purple, slate

Naked2

3 matte 9 shimmer

Foxy, Half Baked, Bootycall, chopper, tease, snake bite, suspect, pistol, verve, ydk, busted, blackout, naked

Quality

The quality of both eye shadows are extremely similar. Both are creamy and pigmented and also create little fallout with a primer.

Included

Lorac Pro:

Lorac Pro Eye shadow Primer

Naked2:

A double-ended eye shadow brush

A travel-sized lip-gloss

Now it’s your turn! Do you have the Naked 1, 2, or the Lorac Pro Palette? Which one do you like best and why? Comment below and telling everyone which palette best fits you!

-Autumn

Time For A Cleanse

Something that many people don’t realize is that we need to do a colon cleanse at least once a year.  It’s needed it we want to keep our energy and keep every other part of our body healthy.  “The purpose of the colon as an organ of elimination is to collect all fermentative and putrefactive toxic waste from every part of the anatomy and remove all solid and semi-solid waste from the body.”  A properly functioning colon is needed to get nutrients to the body. The inner lining of the colon has sensitive nerves and glands. These glands aid in the final stages of digestion and the absorbtion of food especially minerals and water and in eliminating body waste from the system. The inside of the colon may be compared to a water pipe that is partly obstructed by mineral deposits and corrosion. When the walls of the colon are packed (or lined) with accumulated feces, the colon cannot absorb nutrients or eliminate wastes properly, therefore food remains undigested.

                When food gets clogged up in your colon it covers the walls of your intestines and blocks nutrients from getting to your body.  It’s like piling garbage in your body which can cause the following:

• Bad breath
• Body odor
• Constipation
• Skin irritation
• Headaches
• Tapeworm
• Moodiness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain

(The symptoms are not limited to this list but these are the most common.)

 

                From what I’ve tried, the best colon cleanse is the Nature’s Sunshine cleanse.  The program incorporates Cascara Sagrada as a herbal laxative, Hydrated Bentonite for detoxification, Psyllium Hulls as a strong fiber to absorb toxins and Chlorophyll to deodorize.

• “Psyllium Hulls Combination [Intestinal] provides bulk to the diet. The hulls absorb several times their weight in liquid. Psyllium has high amounts of undigestible fiber that has a mucilaginous quality. Nature’s Sunshine products’  Psyllium Hulls Combination contains psyllium hulls, hibiscus flower and licorice root in bulk rather than capsule form.” It really scrapes the walls of the intestines to clean it up.
   
• “Cascara Sagrada [Intestinal] is a nutritional support for the eliminative functionNature’s Sunshine offers the herb individually or in many combinations. It’s available in gelatin capsules and all-botanical Vegitabs®.”
• “Bentonite, Hydrated [Intestinal] is a natural clay that comes from volcanic ash. It is often used as a thickener in facial masks as it absorbs excess oil and dirt from the skin. Studies show that the internal use of volcanic ash goes back to the indigenous peoples of the high Andes mountains, tribes in Central Africa and the aborigines of Australia. Taken internally, it supports the intestinal system in the elimination of toxins. Hydrated bentonite is made by suspending the microfine bentonite of USP-grade purity in purified water.”
   
• Chlorophyll [Intestinal] is the green pigment in plants that harnesses the sun¹s energy in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll performs metabolic functions in plants such as respiration and growth. Interestingly, the chlorophyll molecule is chemically similar to human blood, except that its central atom is magnesium, whereas that of human blood is iron. The alfalfa plant, from which Nature¹s Sunshine¹s chlorophyll comes, is an excellent source of chlorophyll. Nature¹s Sunshine offers chlorophyll in both liquid and capsules for varying needs.

 

This cleanse should be taken twice a day (morning and night) with water, apple, or cranberry juice. (Do not use orange juice).  6 oz of water or juice, 2tbs of liquid chlorophyll, 2tbs of bentonite hydrated, and 1tbs of psyllium hulls combination, followed by a cup of water and cascara sagrada capsules.

• The shake will then be followed by a glass of purified water and Cascara Sagrada capsules.
• You should have 3-4 eliminations a day. It won’t be loose or diarrhea. The waste will come out in bulk.
•  The elimination thereafter should be substantive and effective. With each bowel movement parasites, tapeworms, toxins, and pounds of waste will be released.

Nature’s Sunshine cleanse is a 90 day cleanse but I do it for 45 and It works great! Keep in mind that psyllium hulls expand so when you put the ingredients in the cup shake it up quickly and drink it down.  If you take to long it will get thick and gritty. Also I’d use 6 oz of juice and not 4 because it will thinken very fast in 4 oz. 

You could use a pill cleanse (which I have) but I think this is the most effective way to do it.  Talk to your doctor to decide what you can do and ENJOY!

Trend Alert: How to rock Spring’s Black and White Trend

Although it may not feel like Spring is no where near close with this snowy affair we are having in Chicago, that doesn’t mean you can’t look the part! March is here and in my mind that is the beginning of Spring, so why not kick start the long awaited season with a fresh new trend? I was ecstatic to finally see a fresh color scheme for this Spring that didn’t include the colors of Easter Eggs. Black and white is a timeless, but fresh and crisp way to make a statement after this dreary winter. Although black and white is a scheme that be worn 365, here are some ways that you can rock it this Spring! 

 

Pointy/Strappy Heels 

Zara $79.90

These gorgeous heels make a statement on their own, so dress them down with a pair denim or dress them up with a pair of trousers or peplum dress. 

 

Bag

H&M $34.95

 

I don’t know what I love more, the price or this bag! Either way throw this baby on on your arm and you will make a statement in the most effortless way.

 

Cigarette Pants

Shop Akira $32.90

 

These black and white cigarette pants are not only playful but put a fresh spin a sophisticated pair of pants. Don’t be afraid to play with color since the pants act like a neutral. Add a fun color top, blazer or accessories to complete the look! 

 

Sweater

Nasty Gal $68.00

 

If it’s stil a little chilly out, not to worry! Throw on a cute pullover like this alphabet sweater and you will be the trendiest but comfiest lady in class! This trend doesn’t have to be all about the sophistication-have a some fun with it too! 

 

So now I would love to hear from you guys! Comment below and tell me what pieces you loved the most, or if you have another Spring trend that you cant wait to sport this season!

Until next time!

xoxo,

Erika