"A Smile, Now That's Priceless..."

We all have good days. And then there are those notorious bad ones. The "I feel terrible from the inside out, I'll just wear my PJs around all day" kind of days.  

We've all been sucked into the slumps. Myself included. 

This past week I've worn my PJs around more than I'd like to count; but, this morning, well I decided to do something different. 

I tried, rather. 

I'm a firm believer in baby steps.I mean, why intentionally set yourself up for failure? The road to success isn't as seamless as a sprint to the finish line. Nor as instantaneous as the snap of a finger.

For those of you who doubt me, track your progress and then check back in about five years, are you there yet? Maybe...maybe not.

I woke up this morning after 3 successfully torturous nights of insomnia and felt...E.M.P.T.Y.

No energy, no feeling...nothing. My exhaustion finally caught up with me. Trying to put on "the face" wasn't even an option today.  

And yet, something changed. I changed.

Every morning I read inspirational quotes or articles; cliche I know, but hey sometimes it's the little things that make all the difference in the world...in the day...

This morning's came in the form of a poem. A poem that speaks truth in a melodic, yet profoundly vulnerable way.

A poem by an unknown author. 

An author who found power in the simple act of smiling.

For many people, smiles are pretty little facades. A "distraction" that sugar coats reality. 

Over the years, I've mastered the art of manipulating the innocence of my very own smile. I've gotten so good as to fool even myself into thinking that I'm truly happy. 

All the while, still in those infamous same pajamas.

Today, I managed to trade in the PJs for some workout clothes and I hit the gym...boy did it feel...GREAT!

I smiled from the second I committed to get outta bed, to the second I left the gym...and this time...I felt every muscle. It was a genuine act of gratitude.

For me, learning to believe in the power of smiling was enough to get me to smile. 

So, having shared my story,I too wanted to share my inspiration.  

The author may be unknown, but the content, well I believe it's known to us all.  

"A SMILE"

A smile costs nothing, but gives much-
It takes but a moment, but the memory of it usually lasts forever.
None are so rich that can get along without it-
And none are so poor but that can be made rich by it.

It enriches those who receive, without making poor those who give-
It creates sunshine in the home,
Fosters good will in business,
And is the best antidote for trouble-
And yet it cannot be begged, borrowed, or stolen, for it is of no value
Unless it is given away.

Some people are too busy to give you a smile-
Give them one of yours-
For the good Lord knows that no one needs a smile so badly
As he or she who has no more smiles left to give.

-Unknown

                May this change your tomorrow...xo.

'Tis The Season For...Pastels?

I spent a majority of the afternoon outside playing with my precious puppy, Halo Olivia.

My Darling Pup

Cutie that she is...that little white spot on her nose - gets me every time! 

But enough K-9 chitter chatter, back to the topic at hand...


S-P-R-I-N-G!


Buffalo is a true four seasons city; when it snows, boy does it S.N.O.W. But when the sun is shining, get those shades and smiles out...and SPF!

Playing in the sun all day just got me thinking...the colors of Spring are just to die for. There's something about the classy softness of pastels that I absolutely adore. 


Essie has an awesome Spring 2012 collection out right now, I was actually at Target earlier today and tested all the colors out (sssshhh, that'll just be our little secret, hehe).


I had a fav, the mint/light green. There's something about the way it complemented my skin that made me just have to buy it.


The beauty of living somewhere with four seasons is that one doesn't have to go far to find a color palette from which to draw inspiration. 


Open the window, walk down the street, breathe in the air and... 


WAH-LA. Suddenly, you know what color dress to wear.


Feeling the grass spread between my toes this afternoon really inspired my hue of choice...

Spring into Spring!

What'd ya'll think??? 


People always ask me, do your nails need to match your toes? Well, in my book, they do if your energy is consistent from head to toe. If not, why pretend? Mix it up!


Overall, I felt relaxed, cool, and calm all day...hence MINT!


What are your top 3 polishes for Spring 2012?

A "Fresh" Angle....

From it's initial inception, this blog has been a tribute to all those courageous people out there who dare to live their personal TRUTH day in and day out - 24/7, 365. 

Living out my personal truth hasn't always been easy. I liken the journey to that of a roller-coaster ride - a series of ups and downs. 

Perhaps at breakfast I enjoy my own company, but by lunch I'm ready for a change...sound familiar?

As I've gotten older I've realized that owning my truth has a lot to do with identifying and owning my character - my likes, dislikes, needs, wants, desires. 

       ... I wake up every morning to the same question...

 

"WHAT MAKES ME, ME?"

The avenue of FASHION is one phenomenally unique way of honing in on who you are and releasing your spirit in a dynamic, colorful and creative way.

Growing up I was never a follower. I wore whatever I wanted, whatever made me,me. 

Oh, the memories! 

"What is she wearing?" "Who does she think she is? Black and blue never went together?" "Is it Halloween?"

I embrace it all.

Years later, I have come to realize that while fashion is one avenue that helps us identify our own niche, a comfort zone of sorts, there are indeed a host of others. 

For example, what about nature? Think of the countless designers who've created billion dollar collections inspired by the world outside their windows.

I've come to realize over the past few months, while on hiatus, that perhaps I've bought into "my reflection" more than I've bought into my "self". 

"Not everything that glitters is gold, darling."

I spent a month in the desert...just me, mama nature, and those mountains...needless to say I brought nothing fabulous to wear but my smile. 

My Perspective

No heels, no glamour, no make-up...just me...a puritan.

 

And yet, as unfamiliar as it felt, I can truthfully say, I've never felt more at peace, more beautiful, more confidant, more sexy.

Who knew!  

I realized (perhaps later than sooner) that my "clothes" are only as beautiful and colorful and striking as I look and feel. I mean have you ever gone shopping when you feel like crap? 

I rather watch paint dry.Seriously. 

I chose to kick this new batch of entries off with a "fresh angle"; a new perspective on fashion, identity, beauty, self...

It's all about finding that sense of tranquility and belonging, that BALANCE.

And hey whether you find that in a brand spankin' new pair of J.Brands or in the mountains in Arizona, just appreciate that you found it. 

And remember, not even diamonds look like diamonds in their purest form.

Cheers to a different perspective <3.

The Older The Berry, The Sweeter The Wine"

BOY, HAVE I MISSED YOU ALL!!!

I'm SO sorry for my latest disappearing act, with Thanksgiving and all those family duties entail, I was forced to digress. The good news is....your girl is B.A.C.K! 

It's a NEW month and boy do I have oh so much to share!


But before we delve "knee deep" into the heavenly cloud that is gossip and fashion, I truly hope you all had a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving. It's always nice to be surrounded by the ones you love, whereever they may be <3.


With my birthday steadily approaching (I'll be turning 25 (or 30 as I call it, haha) on January 21st) I've indirectly been paying attention to what the "more experienced" ladies in hollywood have going on - from head to toe.

While they might be older, looks certainly are deceiving, these fashionistas CERTAINLY have it going on. Most, if not all, of these women look even better today than they did in their prime 20s. Dare I go out on a limb in saying that, but hell, if someone told me that I looked better at 30 then I do today, I would jump up and down for joy.

TAKE THAT GRAVITY!

It's hard these days to tell who is who and how old she really is. Between the wardrobe, lights, cameras, and make-up it's all a mystery to me.

Oh, and let's not forget the ultimate game changer, A KILLER TEAM!

Earlier today, I saw this picture of Gabby Union, one of my favs, and drooled. 


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I mean the woman is in her late 30s - the skin? Flawless. The hair? Glistening and flowy from root to tip. The mani/pedi? Perfectly shaded. And my favorite part? The risk! Who said you can't trade in the "LBD" in for a hot pink number?

This woman made me feel refreshed and relaxed about turning the big 2-5. Maybe this is year's "my" year?

(Dating a younger man doesn't hurt either, *cough cough*)

I digress (again).

This society can be so frustrating at times. Women in the media face such pressure to look a certain way, regardless of how they feel where they are. How can a 40 year old look like a 20 year old? That's impossible.

And that's when my dear friend Eva hit me with this oh so potent dose of reality, "Liz, anyone can look that damn good when you got the money and the tools. Please, if I had those things at my disposal I could look like Gabby and more."

REMINDER LADIES - DON'T JUDGE YOUR OUTTER BEAUTY ON A PICTURE LIKE THIS - IT'S DECEIVING.

I think the smile on Gabby's face is the one sincere indicator that happiness really has to do with what's going on within - a good career, good family, love, and learning to embrace age.

You are who you are, why fight it?

I'll admitt, I was jealous when I saw this picture. I mean the woman looks GREAT. But in retrospect, the important thing to remember is that all you have to do is live a healthy life, consistently.

I know that it's unrealistic to think that on January 21st I'll suddenly wake up 2 sizes smaller with 10x more energy than the day before. 

Unlikely.

So why not start on that goal TODAY. After all I'm still 24 for a little over a month, I got time on my side!

If I've learned anything from women like: Demi Moore, Gabby Union, Elle Macpherson, Heidi Klum, Beyonce, and Christie Brinkley (absolutely fabulous, take a look), just to name a few.

Its this: LOOKING GREAT AS YOU GET OLDER HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH MAGIC AND EVERYTHING TO DO WITH MAINTENCE!

- Exercise

- Eat healthier

- Practice natural practices

- Live happily

Anyways, I just wanted to write to all my ladies out there, young and slightly more mature, and share my thoughts on Hollywood's portrayal of women, well in general.  

What do you think?? Is the lime-light spread fairly across the red carpet?

Cheers!

xoxo

"Black Friday"

I hope everyone had a wonderful Turkey Day, Lord knows I'm still recovering from not one, but two feasts! 


Slowly, but surely I'll make it back to the gym, haha.


Well, the "biggest shopping day of the year" is here. BLACK FRIDAY that is.


I have a confession...as much as I am a self-proclaimed fashionista, Black Friday is not my favorite shopping day of the year.


Sure - the sales are plentiful, but so are the crowds!


I prefer a more serene and enjoyable experience when I'm mulling through the racks, the possibility of being run over by a shopping cart is just not my idea of fun, but that's just me.


In the spirit of sales however, I decided to learn more about this fan favorite day.


I know it's the beginning of the Christmas season, but the "where" and "why" are still mysteries to me.


Ah, Google, how I love thee.


Within seconds I learned that the name "Black Friday" originated in Philly of all places. 


According to Time Magazine:


"The term Black Friday itself was used to describe something else entirely - the Sept. 24th, 1864, stock-market panic set off by plunging gold prices. Newspapers in Philadelphia re-appropriated the phrase in the late 1960s - using it to describe the rush of crowds at stores.The justification came much later, tied to accounting balance sheets where black ink would represent a profit."


Interesting, no?


I had no idea that something dating back that many years ago would turn into the full-contact sport that it is today! 


Fascinating. 


Stores, online retailers...they're all the same...sales, sales, sales. Get up early, get the best deal!


I noticed today, when I was searching online, that the best deals indeed ended at noon, almost every site I visited were promoting  things at half price. 


I was MORE than tempted to make some purchases ( guilty, cough cough).


Though I most likely won't make it out to the stores today, I'm counting on all of you to share your adventurous tales with me.


What'd you buy? Where did you find the best deals? Was it PACKED?!


I'm dying of anticipation....


KISSES <3.

"And Best Dressed Goes To..."

Last night the AMA's were on so of course I tuned in for the sights and sounds.

I always love watching awards shows, its a perfect way to see what's what - new, trendy, "in" and not so in.

Naturally, I had my favs, but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the faux pauxs as well.

(Nikki Minaji...cough cough)

Well, in the spirit of awards, I'll get right to it.

My top three fashion stars go to:

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1. Jennifer Lopez - the black lace was risky but if anyone can pull off something like this, sexy with a hint of class, after TWINS no less, it's Miss. Lopez

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2. Katherine Heigl - I was pleasantly surprised when I saw this dress. It is very "old hollywood-esk", the flowiness, the deep plunge, I thought it was extremely flattering and appropriate. I would've liked to see it in a deep burgundy perhaps, but nonetheless I thought the dress was a smart choice. The caged heels, to die, as were the drop earrings. When working with so much skin, a slicked back up-do is a must.

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3. Taylor Swift - "Little Miss Country" has grown up! I absolutely love this dress. It's simple, classic, and YOUTHFUL. True to Taylor. I think taking risks are important when it comes to fashion, however, I think it's equally as important to KNOW WHAT WORKS on your body. Kudos to Taylor's stylist. The gold is a perfect color, plays off her delicate hue well, the emerald earrings add the perfect POP of color. My only complaint would be the hair...it's uber lazy. Don't get me wrong, sometimes you just gotta pull out the pony, but not in this case. I'm one of many who prefer the signature curls, I think this would've been yet another opportunity to rock them proudly.

And as for the fashion...MISHAPS...

My three least favorites were:

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1.Nikki Minaji - Nikki,Nikki, Nikki....oh my...where to even start. Generally speaking, my rule of thumb is, if you can't walk in it, don't wear it! I was beyond frustrated watching miss barbie stumble across the stage time and time again - it was embarrassing. I am a huge proponent of celebrating and expressing individuality, but in this case, she failed me. Miserably. The hair is cute, loving the soft curls, but I was far too distracted by her "curtain-like"           green skirt to even pay attention. 

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2. Katy Perry - Yet another case of individuality gone wrong. Katy Perry is one of those artists who falls in the Rhianna, Lady Gaga, Nikki Minaji category - she sings and dresses to her own tune. Her red carpet look however, eh not so much. I love the blue shoes, and of course, the pink hair (a theme of the night, or so it seemed) but the geisha-inspired dress, I just didn't quite understand where she was going with this look.The color and design did nothing for her. Thumbs down in my book.

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3. Mary J. Blige - It saddens me to put Mary in this category, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. This red carpet look was just off. Lord knows I L.O.V.E. animal print, in most cases I don't really think one can go wrong, but this design and this material just didn't work well on the red carpet. Mary has such a great body and a strong presence, this "flowy" material didn't mesh well with the print and didn't do her justice AT ALL. Truthfully, I was a much bigger fan of her white tux look, I would have preferred to see that look on the red. 

Of course there were lots more looks to choose from - good and not so good - but these looks caught my eye immediately.

Did you watch the AMA's? What were your favs and least favs? I'm curious to know....

Stay FAB my loves and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

"Just Add A Cherry..."

In a few hours I will be hosting a gala here in Buffalo sponsored by the Buffalo Urban League. Though this is my third time hosting, it's the first time I've opted for a "LBD" - I'll admit it, I get a bit uptight when it comes to wearing black, ironic I know. But hey, there's a first time for everything!


The only upside...and this is a rather big one...shoes shoes shoes. 


The highlight of this outfit, of course, are the shoes!!!


After four hours of trying on shoes I gave up. This just doesn't happen often, especially to me. I accepted the fact that I might just have to...wear black shoes...I can't even utter the thought of it without cringing. 


Black on black? Not if you don't have to.


That was of course until I stumbled upon Steve Madden. And was introduced to SHOE CLIPS!


Have you ever heard of a more brilliant fashion-forward idea?

When I saw this fuchsia pump, all I could say was, "size 8 please!"

The only thing missing...some...umph!

A plain shoe one minute... 

                     A masterpiece the next...


          (thanks to my dapper boyfriend the shoe model)


The perfect cherry to top my "shoedae".


Shop Bando has some affordable and eclectic shoe clips. I love them! Check them out, what do you think?? Would you ever invest in a pair?!