Category: Summer 2018

Beauty /

3 Tips To Achieve A Healthy Summer Glow

Depending on where you live, summertime is typically when the sun is shining the brightest. During this season, festivities are at a height, spirits are high, and people are enjoying the many things life has to offer. You may have plans to join in on the fun and therefore, want to ensure you’re looking your best. Seeing as your skin is one of the first things that people see when they look at you, it’s likely that you’re thinking about what you can do to make it glow. The good news is that there are many ways that you can get a summer glow, and this article is going to list a few.

Stay Hydrated

You’ve probably had enough of hearing it, but staying hydrated is a major key when it comes to having glowing skin. If you’ve never really understood how water helps your skin, when your skin is dry, it’s less resilient and elastic which makes it more vulnerable to wrinkling over time. When you drink water, however, it helps flush out toxins and waste products, and by doing so, your skin should clear up whereas when you don’t, the toxins and waste become trapped. In light of this, try to drink at least eight glasses a day. Seeing as this is often a challenge for people, perhaps try carrying water around with you as a reminder and setting phone reminders every few hours.

Cosmetic Procedures

When trying to achieve glowing skin this summer, think about exploring cosmetic procedures as well as natural remedies. Depending on your challenges or what you want to achieve, there are several available that can help you achieve your skin goals. If, for instance, you have fine lines you want to reduce, botox may be ideal; if you’re struggling with ingrown hair bumps, then laser hair removal could be a solution. Likewise, if you want to get rid of acne scars and tighten sagging skin, then skin tightening by Your Laser Skin Care might be the right option for you. You should, however, do enough research beforehand to ensure it’s safe to do the procedure and you’re fully aware of what it entails.

Stick to a Routine

It is important that you understand your skin type as everyone’s skin is different. By doing so, you can explore different products and develop a skin routine that works for you. Some tips on developing a skin routine include knowing your skin as mentioned above, using a gentle cleanser, rinsing your skin with warm water, exfoliating if you have dry, flaky skin, using a toner if you have oily skin, and avoiding products with alcohol if your skin is sensitive. By doing so, you should find that you have consistently decent skin and you also have a unique glow to show for it.

For many people, skin is an important part of their physical appearance and for reasons that are understandable. As mentioned above, there are many ways to ensure your skin is at its best, and many require developing a routine. By doing so, you should find that your skin is enviable and glowing this summer.

Collaborative Post

Beauty /

Essence Festival 2018 Backstage Pass: Junes Diary, Neyo, Charreah Jackson, Regina King, Kofi Siriboe, and Much More

Essence Festival is labeled as being “The Party With a Purpose.”  This year, I returned as an official media outlet and able to truly identify with the term.

Many people ask, “What happens during the Essence Fest?”  and some can’t understand the allure of this particular event.  The festival is a combination of seminars, parties, and cuisine.

It’s categorized into Beauty, Entertainment, Entrepreneurship, Food, Style, Community, Culture, Wellness, and Spirituality.  This is no ordinary celebration!  The entire city of New Orleans becomes a cultural mecca and the spirit of festivity feels the air.

Hollywood celebrities attended for keynote conversations; discussing their latest projects.  Internet sensations and digital influences shared their platform through Fashion Empowerment and Tricks for a Flawless Glow.

The nighttime activities were performed at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.  Festival Goers danced to various acts by artist such as Erykah Badu, Snoop Dogg, The Roots, Ledisi, Mary J. Blige, and Janet Jackson to name a few.

On Sunday, June 8, 2018, Bishop Lester Love and The City of Love hosted Hour of Power with spiritual workshops and gospel tributes.  This was the perfect opportunity to attend brunch or join a fitness session at the convention center.  Lastly, celebrity stylist Vernon Francois and Misa Hylton Presented 25 Years of Fashion Slayage!

Aside from festival activities, there were delicious and authentic New Orleans dishes such as Beignets, Gumbo, and Muffulettas.  Essence Festival is a must-attend event for anyone that loves art, cuisine, and enlightenment.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Robin Thede speaks onstage at the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Marshawn Evans Daniels speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Charli Penn speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: President of Essence Communications, Inc. Michelle Ebanks speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Ne-Yo attends the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Amandla Stenberg speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Regina King speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Director Barry Jenkins speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Snoop Dogg attends the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Regina Hall speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Kiki Layne speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Maxine Waters attends the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Doug E. Fresh performs onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented By Coca-Cola – Day 1 at Louisiana Superdome on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Miguel performs onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented By Coca-Cola – Day 1 at Louisiana Superdome on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: Erykah Badu performs onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented By Coca-Cola – Day 1 at Louisiana Superdome on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 07: Regina Hall attends the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 7, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 07: Yvonne Orji speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 7, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 07: Kofi Siriboe speaks onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 7, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 07: Mary J. Blige performs onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented By Coca-Cola – Day 2 at Louisiana Superdome on July 7, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Essence)

Photo Credit:  Getty Images from Essence.com

 

Accessories /

10 Basic Rules of Cool Dress For Hot Days – House of Terrance

Terry from House of Terrance shared, “I quickly learned to wear light-colored layers, weightless, sheer natural fabrics, and plenty of sleeveless and halter neck styles. Here’s what I learned about dressing for the heat and humidity.”

10 Basic Rules of Cool Dress

1. Stay with natural fabrics. Wear cotton, chambray, and lightweight linen. Give a pass to polyesters which don’t breath, and silk which stains.

2. Wear airy fabrics. Get some natural air-conditioning by wearing lace, mesh, eyelet, embroidery, and crochet — all great for adding a little spice to a basic summer ensemble.

3. Stay away from clothing that clings. This is the time for billowy shapes that skim the body. Say no to jeans, but if you must wear them consider a pair made of chambray which looks like denim but is much lighter in weight.

4. Wear more skirts and dresses. They allow for air circulation making you cooler than pants or shorts will. Don’t tuck anything in — that extra fabric at your waist is too much when it feels like 100 degrees out!

5. Choose light colors like white and pastels. Black fibers absorb more heat than lighter shades. If you do choose black, make sure it’s sheer or practically weightless.

6. Wear your most minimal bras and panties. This is the time for your sheerest, laciest undergarments.

7. Keep your hair off your face. Now is the perfect time to experiment with headbands, scarves, headwraps and turbans, all great options for keeping your hair back, neat and cool.

8. Lighten up with accessories. Forego the big necklaces and multiple bangles. Earrings are the best way to add style to your outfits, especially if you’re wearing your hair off your face for extra coolness. Here are some great ones to consider!

9. Give up your shoulder bag. Trade your large handbag for a small lightweight bag that fits just the essentials. There are so many cooler ones (both meanings:) to carry, like small backpacks, crossbodies, and fannypacks.

10. It’s time for your strappiest of sandals! But let’s not resort to flip-flops. Consider the cooly updated slides which have more support than flip-flops.

Click Here: HOUSE OF TERRANCE

Entertainment /

OVER HALF A MILLION ATTENDEES CONVENE FOR THE 2018 ESSENCE FESTIVAL SPONSORED BY COCA-COLA

The 2018 ESSENCE Festival® presented by Coca-Cola® attracted more than 510,0000 attendees to New Orleans this Fourth of July weekend, marking one of the largest gatherings in the event’s 24-year history.   For the first time, all three nights of the ESSENCE Festival concert series at the Louisiana Superdome sold out.  The extraordinary turnout underscores ESSENCE’s engagement of Black women around community, culture, and content – which was brought to life in innovative ways at the annual celebration.

“This extraordinary gathering of nearly half a million attendees–on the eve of the ESSENCE Festival’s 25th anniversary–speaks to the unmatched convening power of our culture,” said Michelle Ebanks, President, Essence Communications.  “As one of the country’s largest curated live experiences, the ESSENCE Festival engages Black women globally—through a truly unique celebration of culture, connection to community and access to content that inspires and empowers.”

The annual 4-day Festival, which took place July 5-8, features entertainment, empowerment, and cultural experiences during the day and a state-of-the-art concert series with the world’s best performers each night to comprise a one-of-a-kind curated content experience:

    • Over 100 performing artists across the Superdome and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Many of the biggest names in the entertainment industry including Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Queen Latifah, Snoop Dogg, The Roots, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Miguel and others performed at the event’s nighttime concerts and dozens of others across ESSENCE’s Center Stage and 10thAnniversary All-Star Gospel Tribute honoring Dottie Peoples.

 

    • More than 100 influencers, leaders, creators, and celebrities participated in the Festival’s daytime experience – rebranded as ‘Conference & Expos’ with programming across eight tracks spanning Beauty & Style to Business & Entrepreneurship. Powerhouse speakers included Lena Waithe, Lester Holt, and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell as well as favorites Rev. Al Sharpton, Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Iyanla Vanzant, among others.

 

    • First-time, simultaneous live streams of the daytime experience on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube; an ESSENCE Snapchat Live special and millions of #EssenceFest social media posts generating trending status on Twitter.

 

    • Expanded consumer Expos such as the ‘Beauty Carnival” and ‘Entertainment All-Access’ drew crowds of thousands each day to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.   Elevated VIP events and programs for attendees included the launch of the ‘ESSENCE House’ at the Ace Hotel, as well as the debut of the ‘E-Suite’ with exclusive access to career and business programming.

 

    • Community give-back and volunteerism at the Festival’s traditional ‘Day of Service’ focused on the theme “Adopt-a-Neighborhood – Central City” to encompass youth center beautification projects, as well as empowerment and entrepreneurship workshops for women & girls.  ESSSENCE ‘Day of Service’ also presented the inaugural Excellence Awards honoring local change-agents in the community.

 

For a full recap of all the exciting moments from the 2018 ESSENCE Festival, visit ESSENCE.com and log in to the ESSENCE Festival News Center for photo and footage highlights.  Images of Janet Jackson can be requested via Getty Images.

The 2018 ESSENCE Festival is executive produced by ESSENCE Festivals LLC, a division of ESSENCE Communications Inc. (ECI), and produced by Solomon Group. GeChar is the executive producer of the 2018 ESSENCE Empowerment Experience.

Sponsors of the 2018 ESSENCE Festival include presenting sponsor Coca-Cola and major sponsors AT&T, Ford, McDonald’s, State Farm and Walmart.

Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator /

Summer Debris and Laundry with Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator

Has anyone ever noticed how the summer months can wreak havoc on your family’s clothing?  I will answer this question and gently raise my hand.

Between playdates, swim lessons, and hanging out at the park all of this outdoor activity can be harsh on fabrics.  Of course, we don’t want to let a little debris get in the way of enjoying life but laundry day can be a dreaded event.

Featured Photo from The Container Store.com

From my experience, it’s vital to have the right products when treating your clothing.  I have committed to reading labels and searching for detergents that enhance the color and remove harsh stains.

Have you heard of Biz detergent booster?  It’s the ultimate stain and odor eliminator.  I use a simple laundry process when incorporating Biz detergent booster into my routine:

  1. For tough stains such as makeup, coffee, or ketchup; pre-treat the surface with Biz Liquid.  Place a small amount on the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
  2. On normal laundry days, add your load to the washer with the use of regular detergent and a cap of Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator.

The end result of either process was brighter, stain-free clothing with no lingering odors.  If you don’t believe me, try it for yourself!

Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator can be purchased at Publix, Piggly Wiggly, or Kroger.

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Lifestyle Tips /

Political Commentator Symone Sanders, Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant Among Those to be Honored at 15th Annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards in New Orleans July 8

WHAT: The 15th annual McDonald’s® 365Black® Awards is set to bring everyday heroes and celebrities from across the country to the Ritz Carlton, New Orleans. The dynamic event will take place during ESSENCE Festival® weekend and recognize exceptional leaders who make positive contributions to the African-American community. McDonald’s presence at the Essence Festival affirms the brand’s dedication to celebrating everyday people who are striving to make a positive difference in their communities and move Black culture forward.

2018 Honorees:

Symone Sanders is a champion for women, communities of color and those in need. Sanders is a go-to political commentator, a Spring 2018 Resident Fellow at Harvard University’s Institute of Politics and the Strategist for Communications and Political Outreach at Priorities USA. Symone rose to prominence during her tenure as the National Press Secretary for U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders presidential campaign. At 25, Symone demonstrated an uncanny command of the issues earning her a place in history as the youngest presidential press secretary on record and a spot-on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of 16 young Americans shaping the 2016 election.

Sheryl Lee Ralph is an acclaimed veteran of film, television and the Broadway stage. Her award-winning work includes creating the role of Deena Jones in the legendary Broadway musical, “Dreamgirls” and earning Best Actress nods for Tony and Drama Desk Awards. No stranger to television, Sheryl Lee Ralph’s past TV credits include “It’s a Living,” “Designing Women,” “The District,” and “Moesha.” For the last three years, Sheryl was a lead on the hit Nickelodeon series “Instant Mom”. Ralph is also the creator of the Jamerican Film and Music Festival. Ralph has been one of Hollywood’s biggest voices in the fight on HIV/AIDS for over two decades with her Divas Simply Singing foundation.

HBCU Forward Scholarship award recipient:

Kimberly Bryant is the founder and CEO of Black Girls CODE, a non-profit organization dedicated to “changing the face of technology” by introducing girls of color (ages 7-17) to the field of technology and computer science with a concentration on entrepreneurial concepts. Bryant enjoyed a successful career in pharmaceutical and biotech industries for more than 20 years. She has helped Black Girls CODE grow from a local initiative to an international organization serving more than 7,000 students. She was named a White House Champion of Change and received a Social Progress award from the Smithsonian Institute for her national work in increasing opportunities for women and girls in technology.

Monique Vann-Brown is the owner of seven McDonald’s franchises in the Ann Arbor, Michigan area and managing partner of her parent’s two Detroit restaurants. Her career began at the age of 14 as a crew member at one of her parent’s McDonald’s locations. She transitioned into the automotive industry at 17 as an engineering intern. After several years in supply chain management, she pursued her dreams of entrepreneurship in the McDonald’s Corporation Registered Applicant & Next Generation Programs. She soon became Co-Chair of the National Black McDonald’s Operator’s Association. This committee produced events designed to serve as a forum for future leaders within the McDonald’s Owner-Operator community.

Tishauna Wilson is a rising junior majoring in computer science at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University. She learned how to code in high school where she graduated at the top of her class. Earlier this year, Wilson revived the computer science research program at her university, where she is working on four Artificial Intelligence projects. The research projects consist of detecting fraud through conversations, identifying credit card fraud, as well as developing a voice-activated, self- driving drone and a basketball referee system. Wilson has hopes of pursuing a Ph.D. in Computer Science, founding an autonomous automotive manufacturing company, developing into a distinguished engineer and researcher and becoming a future CEO of a Fortune 500 technology company.

This year’s McDonald’s 365Black Awards will be hosted by acclaimed actress Essence Atkins. The luncheon will feature an all-star line-up of musical performances by R&B swooner Dave Hollister and gospel heavy-hitter Le’Andria Johnson.

Accessories /

8 Ways to Spice Up Your Work Wardrobe from HOUSE OF TERRANCE

Women really want to know how to spice up their work wardrobes. We say adding on-trend accessories is the easiest, most cost-effective way to spice it up at work!

1. Shoot Some Hoops — Earrings are always an easy way to add some style to your look. This season the hoop game is strong! Check out these 3 very different styles which can easily be paired with basic work outfits to add a little spice.
Gold Triple Circle Hoop Earrings
Large Colorful Bead Hoop Earrings
Modernist Gold Oval Hoops
2. Draw Straw  — The little straw bag is having a moment like I haven’t seen since the 90s! Adding one to your look can really take your style cred up a notch. This season there are so many cute affordable ones to choose from in addition to the culty Cult Gaia bag every fashion girl has been carrying around for a couple of seasons.
Urban Outfitters Crossbody Straw Bag
Catch tote from Anthropologie
Rebecca Minkoff Straw Crossbody Bag
3. Get Cuffed — Nothing adds a more stylish touch to an outfit than a bold cuff. And you double the effect when you sport matching ones. These beauties from H*O*T are just the thing!
Basketweave Gold Tone Cuff
Abalone Shell Stretch Cuff
Carved Floral Gold Tone Cuff
4. Buy Belts — Finally belts are back in the spotlight where they belong! I’ve always loved this particular accessary and found it to be such an easy way to add color, structure and style to an outfit. This summer we’re seeing a wide range of belt styles and one of them is bound to appeal. I’ve included 3 top belt styles; the western belt, the handy belt bag and the logo belt.
B-Low the Belt Bri Bri Belt
Zara Belt Bag
Tory Burch Logo Belt
5. Stylize Your ID — Practical yet immensely stylish, Fashion Ids truly illustrate the saying ‘necessity is the mother of invention’!  Some years back when I still worked in a large Ad Agency I was unhappy wearing my work ID on an ugly lanyard. So good friend and colleague Mark Fina and I created FASHIONids, the perfect way to express your style while keeping an ID at hand. Handmade with vintage jewelry pieces and found objects, they’re an excellent way to add personality to your work wardrobe no matter what that consists of. Here are 3 favorites:
Copper Chain with Black Wood Leaves FASHIONid
This Pearl is a Star FASHIONid
Golden Charms FASHIONid
6. Tie One On — A couple of weeks ago I recounted how impressed I was with French Womens’ ability to wear a scarf, when I first landed in Paris to live and still today. And I know why. It’s because it’s the one accessory that makes every outfit look better! Here are 3 that will uplift your most basic work ensemble.
 
& Other Stories Peony Scarf 
Zara Pleated Polka Dot Scarf
Ferragamo Scarf
7. Lighten Up — Ok I know you’re thinking that there’s no way you’re getting stylish and comfortable in one shoe but I promise you it’s possible. These are 3 pairs that I have recent experience with and couldn’t be happier. The Everlane Day shoe blew me away, so cute and comfortable! Although I’m not a fan of the brand’s overly basic basics they’ve really nailed the great looking comfort shoe. Cole Haan with zerogrand technology is like walking on a cloud. And finally go for Allbirds if you want to join the cool kids comfort shoe club 🙂 I promise you won’t take them off.

Everlane Day Heel
Cole Haan ZEROGRAND Oxford
Allbirds Tree Runners
8. Artify Your Phone — Yes phone cases are style accessories too! I bet you’re never without yours and it should be as fashionable as you are. That’s easy with the 3 examples below, all products of our H*O*T artist collaborations with Pauline de Rousy de Sales and Patrick-Earl Barnes.
Red Pants Woman iPhone Case by Pauline de Roussy de Sales
Moncler Dog iPhone Case by Pauline de Roussy de Sales
Woman Red Dress on Blue by Patrick-Earl Barnes

Learn more at HOUSE OF TERRANCE

Beauty /

A Girls Guide to Getting Through the Summer Heat

Stay sweat-free and odor-free all day long with Ban Purely Gentle Roll-On Deodorant ($10, Amazon.com)

A non-irritating formula that’s tough on sweat but gentle on the skin. This deodorant incorporates 24-hour protection with a new, gentler formula, ensuring round the clock defense even for those with the most sensitive skin.

Keep your hair off your neck with the help of Hairdo Simply Straight Pony ($49, Ulta.com)

 

This strut-your-stuff pony delivers the style points straight-up by instantly adding length, verve, and volume to your ponytail. Wrap around easily and secure your pony high, low or to the side.

Keep your skin moisturized while achieving a non-oily, velvety finish with Erborian BB Crème ($39, Sephora.com)

 

Containing break-through high-tech formulas, this BB Crème evens out and mattifies the complexion, moisturizes and plumps the skin, refines skin’s texture and reduces the appearance of blemishes. Your skin will appear visibly softer, smoother and beautiful with a silky feel.

Accessories /

Casual Crewneck Chiffon Summer Dress – Sunday Style

Let’s talk about this dress.  It’s simply amazing from the tunic cut to the free-flowing style.  I have a secret to share!  In the summer months, I primarily shop online.  This is because not only do I run a local business but my boys are home for the summer.

That means there’s no time for excessive running around to stores.  More so, I spend the majority of my hours making memories with the kids.

Our days involve crafts, swimming or visiting the local library.  But, looking great doesn’t have to be compromised!  I just do a small shift with my shopping strategy.

The dress in this post was purchased from Amazon.  Honestly, I was hesitant because online shopping can be tricky.  The first step is to know my measurements and the style of dress that accentuates my shape.  The second step is to take into consideration my problem areas along with colors that compliment my complexion.

The jewelry that I’m wearing in this picture was purchased from a thrift shop.  I love thrifting but that’s another blog post!

What are your online shopping tips?  Share in the comments below.

Dress:  Amazon | Pumps:  Jessica Simpson | Makeup:  MAC Cosmetics | Pearl Necklace & Sunglasses:  Tiffany & Co.  | Perforated Braided Clutch:  South Moon Under