Today marks a special day for me! I'm a year older, hopefully wiser, and entirely grateful. 28 is an amazing milestone. I've never been one of those people who fear age. As I look back on the past year, things have definitely changed...for the best! My inner circle is small and intimate just the way it should be. I'm blessed to have wonderful people in my life that truly love and appreciate who I am. To have that immense amount of positivity keeps me striving. I have talented, successful, amazing friends that inspire me so much! In my opinion, birthdays are to celebrate as a whole, not just me, me, me, me! Thank you GOD for my continued blessings, gifts, lessons, and bestowing your grace and mercy. I'm so greatly appreciative!!!!

A special shot out goes to my fiance. He always keeps me smiling, happy, laughing, and feeling like the most beautiful woman in the room. I love you, babe! :)

If most women would tell the honest truth, they would let the world in on a little secret. One, all ladies do no hate each other! Some of us actually get along quite well. Second, We all have girl crushes... In my opinion, these are very innocent, and usually derive from admiring an extra cool chick. With that said, My G.C. of the month is definitely, Tika Sumpter. Not only is she naturally gorgeous, talented, and intelligent...she is humble!!! That is the most attractive quality of them all. Oh, check out her amazing complexion. Looks like a flawless Godiva bar. *giggles*

Animal print has been a staple in the wardrobe of fashionable women for ages. Now, it's back with a great vengeance! Whether your style is: Classic, edgy, ultra trendy, retro, or even Cali chic there is a way for every one to incorporate animal accents into ensembles effortlessly. As with any bold prints, LESS IS MORE! Read on to get tips, tricks & tweaks on how to embrace your inner wild side.

1. Jessica Simpson used her large handbag to spice up a demure outfit.
2. Kim Kardashian opted for an all leopard jumpsuit. The fabric,
classic makeup, sleek hair and neutral undertones balance the look.
3. Bad girl Rihanna loves to live on the wild side! She chose to
keep it funky & edgy with the mixing and matching of animal print colors.


My TOP FIVE accessories to add a playful hint..


In my opinion, Nicki Minaj went a tad bit too far with the trend. Everything from her hair, bodysuit, hat & ankle boots are LEOPARD!!!! Oh, and that awful gaudy barbie chain just adds to the madness.

NYFW is officially over! This year was quite amazing. It's always fun to see what my favorite celebs chose to wear to the various events. I am absolutely loving everything about the ensembles Solange Knowles decided upon. She chose flowy fabrics, unique designs, and looks stylishly comfortable. Her funky afro and flawless makeup seal the deal fro me. Hands down my favorite!

The Birkin bag is one of the most exclusives forms of arm candy in the world.
The french retailer, Hermès creates one a kind, timeless bags that are noticed by the masses without even having a logo. The price tag to own one can begin anywhere from 10,000 to well in six figure range. The waiting list was once placed up to 5 years to snag one, although it seems this has changed in the last few years. Of course, celebrities love luxury, and have no problem dropping racks on racks just to obtain. Kim Kardashian seems to be the BOSS when it comes to Birkin bags. She owns at least ten in various colors. Although I think the bags are beautiful, I just can't help but think of how many college educations, houses, and cars these are worth. To each his own, though.

If you had the cash, would you purchase one?

There's no denying that soul singer Jill Scott is a gorgeous woman. She embodies the definition of class and oozes natural beauty. Her makeup is usually very simple, yet glamorous. This is one of my all time favorite looks on her. I call it Barely there, showed up.

If you would like to achieve a similar look:

-Maybelline Dream Mousse Foundation - This is one of the most lightweight, great coverage, drug store brands out there. I chose this foundation to go with this look, because of the barely there appeal. You don't want a heavy liquid to take the look from natural to runway.

-Diorshow Mascara - Personally, I'd go with faux lashes to complete the look, but if not, Dior has an amazing mascara that will have everyone thinking you're wearing lash extensions anyhow. Use just enough to give the eyes a 'doll like' effect.

-MAC liquid liner - Apply a generous amount (at your own discretion) for a 60's Twiggy MOD style.

- A nude lip is essential. MAC offers an array of shades and finishes depending on your preference.

Viola!

The quality I love most about Angela Simmons is her fearless approach when it comes to fashion and personal style. Her ability to switch from day casual to step out chic, and always stay photo shoot fresh is amazing. I've always said, "It takes a fashionable woman to rock a mini dress and not look slutty." And the way she shows off her curves without ever appearing less than hip hop royalty marks her spot in the most stylish list of celebrity women. Rocker. Chic. Edgy. Fresh.

Summer is winding down but let's face it, it's still HOT outside. Therefore, I know most of you aren't throwing your clothing to the side just yet. However, there are a few ways to incorporate Autumn before it arrives. By simply pairing a lightweight blazer with your summer attire, your ensemble will turn in a layered, fashionista's dream.

P.S. Kourtney is my favorite Kardashian sister. She is BEYOND stylish. I love her ability to pair timeless items together and still mangage to stay on trend.

Hi everyone!

How's it going? It's been awhile since I wrote a review on new products that i've purchased. Trust me, I've gathered quite a collection in the past few months though. I like to try different brands, expensive to affordable. Target is one of my favorite stores to "drugstore" bargain shop. They have an array of products to fit all of my beauty needs.

1. Elf eyeshadow brush $1.00 - I mean, for a buck can you really pass up on much of anything? This brush is really cool because it's easy to work with, and I didn't have any trouble blending the pigments with it. It's all about how your ability to work with an item. Don't let the cost fool you.

2. Megablast Eyeliner, Wet n' Wild $2.99 - I was very reluctant to use this liner, because i'm spoiled with my kohl's brand. (Available at Kohl's retail stores) However, I must say the way this liner went on was pleasantly shocking. The lasting power is great, no smearing, and the price is amazing!

3. Sweet as candy - Wet n' wild swatch $2.99 - If your'e a beginner with makeup, or simply need help with the how-to process of applying pigments this would work great for you. The trio includes 'Eyelid, browbone & crease' to let you know where to apply. I didn't have a problem with blending, but I will say the pigments were a bit more chalky than i'm used to. Overall, it's an affordable buy.

4. Don't steal my thunder - Wet n' wild swatch - 2.99 - Yes ma'am! I absolutely love these pigments, because i'm able to create an awesome smokey eye in no time. The shades are still a bit chalky, but with the right amount of time spent blending no one will know the difference.


I'm a mother, student, and budgetnista. There is no way in the world that i'd get caught up in names just because they're what's "hot". Make sure that you don't pass up on great items trying to keep up with the Joneses and 'nem. Do what looks and feels great at all times. And hey, would you prefer a heavier wallet, or makeup bag? *giggles*