Celebrate National Lipstick Day with Cargo Cosmetics

Don’t worry about your lipstick wiping off on National Lipstick Day (July 29, 2017) by using Cargo Cosmetics Swimmables Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick!

 The best-selling lipstick is an ultra-matte liquid mixture that will stay on all day, but will also feel so comfortable on your lips! This lightweight formula will dry fast, leaving a suede like finish without the common drawbacks like flakes or cracks.

If you are looking for a shade to wear during the daytime, check out Cape Town, a nude lipstick with pink undertones that is a best-seller. ($18, CargoCosmetics.com)

For a more adventurous look for a night on the town, try the shade Sorrento, inspired by the Italian seaside town. No matter the occasion, this dark berry colored lipstick, will last throughout the night! ($18, CargoCosmetics.com)

Insta Flawless Fix and Matte Setting Powder: Rimmel London

Have you ever taken a picture only to realize your face has an uncontrollable shine? This is often the case with several of my photos.  Rimmel London solved this problem by sending one of their newest products.

The Insta Flawless Fix and Matte Setting Powder set my makeup within a few minutes.  I applied foundation, concealer, mascara, blush, and eyelashes.

Afterwards, it was time to set my entire look!

IG @kwest198

The translucent powder was true to its purpose; lightweight, smooth and neutral in tone.

Some of the other brands left my face dry and provide a yellow-base tone.  The Insta Flawless Fix and Matte Setting Powder can be purchased online or at your local ULTA Beauty store.

What I Wore: African Print Midi Flare Skirt and Accessories

I have not moved beyond the excitement centered around Essence Fest 2017.  The iconic “party with a purpose” is a must-attend experience!

When packing for such an event there are a few rules to consider.  Always plan for the weather in that region and review the itinerary in terms of walking.

I couldn’t cover the festival without packing my favorite African-Print (Ankara) midi skirt. Several people stopped and inquired about this particular piece. Here’s the secret:  it was purchased at a flea market in Alabama.

The style photo was taken in the New Orleans, Central Business District. Against my better judgement, I stood in the middle of street traffic to capture a decent shot.

Was this a little scary?  The answer is yes.  Was this mind-blowing?  The answer is definitely a strong yes!

 

What I Wore: Hollow Lace High-Low Dress

This summer my family hosted a reunion and required everyone to wear white attire. I wasn’t sure if the midi dress I currently owned would measure up to the event.

For evening occasions, lace is always a perfect option because it’s elegant and chic. I purchased the Hollow Lace High-Low Dress because the straps where adjustable (due to height) and upper fit would compliment my petite frame.

The mirror belt elevated this look and helped to define my waist. This dress had a neutral tone slip which complimented my gold studded, nude heels.

The reunion party was memorable and my dress was appropriate for dancing, laughs, and all around fun!

Nude Studded Heels Comparison:  Macy’s | Lipstick:  GloGirl Cosmetics | Eyelashes:  Salon Perfect

 

How To: Glowing Skin with a Positive Mindset

Skin care probably gives us more anxiety than any other part of our body! Which makes perfect sense, of course – it’s covering us and constantly showing to some degree. Those who have skin problems will often have issues with self-esteem and even moodiness. If you want to tackle your skin anxieties, then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s some advice that you should take on-board.

Featured Photo from Instagram

Change your mindset

A negative mindset isn’t going to help your anxieties. Well, duh, right? But how does that help you when it comes to skin problems? A lot of people would argue that a skin problem such as acne gives someone the right to be negative or self-conscious. But again, you might need a change in mindset. You can read more at mind-sets.com. It seems that you may be assuming the worst in people without taking into account that most people, at some point, will encounter these sorts of problems. People are more empathetic than you might think.

The fact is that the vast majority of people don’t care all that much; they may notice you have a problem, but they’re not going to be disgusted by it in the way that you think. Other people aren’t going to sit there and stare at your flaws. Think about it: do you pay attention to someone’s skin problems? Has it stopped you spend time with them or even dating them? Probably not. Try to keep this in mind; it will soothe a lot of your anxiety.

Get expert advice

You can speak with someone about these kinds of worries. They may point you in the direction of a dermatologist. (A “skin doctor”, in layman’s terms!) Dermatologists will always help you explore non-surgical options, but there are loads of businesses out there, such as belcarahealth.com, that will help you explore both non-invasive dermatology and cosmetic surgery. (And no, you shouldn’t be afraid to look into such treatment if there’s a good chance it will really improve your situation.)

Dermatologists, or even your regular physician, may even be able to recommend you specific products and lifestyle changes based on your particular skin structure. Don’t be afraid to look into medical treatments they may suggest, like microdermabrasion. Something like that can be done at home or with a doctor.

The skin-friendly lifestyle

Changing your mindset is one part of adopting a skin-friendly lifestyle; when you’re less negative, you stress out a lot less – and stress can aggravate skin problems in ways you may never have thought possible. Stress is just one part of an unhealthy lifestyle that you need to avoid.

It’s true that those with skin problems like acne may be, in a sense, “doomed” to have the problem to some degree, at least in the short term. But most people aggravate the problem by not drinking enough water, not getting enough sleep, and neglecting exercise. You can read more at experiencelife.com. These things aren’t guaranteed to cure skin problems, the way some people make out. But they can go a long way towards improving your skin tremendously.

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The Contemporary Romper: Summer Fashion Statement

The contemporary romper is always up for debate.  Some say it’s the equivalent of a middle school outfit and others believe it’s a wardrobe staple.

Featured Photo from People.com

Wearing a romper can be a great choice. It’s both casual and dressy; worn with sneakers, wedges, or diamond studs.

To look amazing in a romper, it has to fit appropriately.  Rompers should drape nicely (on the shoulders) and taper to the waist.  Also, the sleeves should not extend beyond the wrist or pant length extremely short.

Rompers are fashionable, sexy, and comfortable.  Take a look at the option below:

Express.com

Scent Trunk.com | Customizable Summer Fragrance Review

If you haven’t heard of Scent Trunk, you can thank me after this post. Scent Trunk is an innovative company that allows customers to create their own individual fragrance.  It’s an intriguing process, especially for those with seasonal allergies or seeking a unique smell.

Featured Photo from Fragrantice.com

After receiving the kit, start by taking the scent (or sniff) test, select your favorite fragrance, and log the information into your account. 

Scent Trunk will ship your personalized fragrance in a few days.  I had a lot of fun creating my scent and excited to receive the package.  

My fragrance smelled wonderful!  For an authentic review, I decided to wear it for an outside family barbecue.  It’s safe to say I smelled amazing and no need to reapply.  Living in a warmer climate, your body has a tendency to change and need a fragrance that will withstand the weather.  

Try it for yourself, visit ScentTrunk.com and let us know your experience here!

CFDA Awards 2017: Top Looks for Red Carpet

The CFDA Awards is an opportunity to showcase talented fashion designers for their global influence. It is often titled the “Oscars” of fashion and members of the council are invited to attend an annual gala in New York City.

Celebrities are (also) extended an invitation to walk the red carpet.  The star-studded event presented several high fashion looks that were seen on Bella Hadid, Lupita Nyongo, and Karlie Kloss.

Take a look at the red carpet looks below:

Trending: Architectural Cuffs from Robert Lee Morris

This season, statement jewelry is back, and it’s all about the bracelet that doesn’t require layering. Chic-up your summer wardrobe with architecturally-inspired cuffs from legendary designer, Robert Lee Morris.

A staple accessory of style icons from Michelle Obama to Drew Barrymore – Robert Lee Morris offers an array of bold, geometric designs to perfect any fashion girl’s look.