What the Fall: Fashion and Beauty Essentials for this Autumn

I will start off by saying that I love Spring the most as a season. Then, I would chose Summer and then, I would decide on Fall. I adore sweater weather, but for me, Fall can be at times like the Sunday of seasons. It is there to warn you of winters's impending cold and darkness similar to a Sunday reminding you of the work week's time clock restarting. However, there are loads of reasons to love Fall. Aside from the start of the holiday season, marathons of Friends' Thanksgiving episodes, and touring farms, it is an awesome time of year for fashion. It's the time where minimal layers are being used to give everyone the warmth, but still convenient stylish aurora that Winter majorly lacks in. During the winter I always feel like the younger brother in A Christmas Story, bundled up so much so, that I'm afraid of falling and not being able to get back up. Thankfully, Fall is not like this. Therefore, when fellow blogger, Simone Danielle of Fashion Runs the World, invited me join in on a fall essentials collaboration, I just had to participate.

With that said, here is a list of my Fall Essentials:

1:Sweater 2:Leggings 3:Scarves 5:Facial Wipes 6:Equestrian Boots (Splurge Purchase) 7:Boot Socks 
8:Mustard Yellow Accessories

1. Sweaters 
I cannot live without sweaters. They are secretly my guilty pleasure and I will admit to having way too many of them. For Fall. they work as my jacket--keeping me warm and stylish at the same time. The best part about them is that they can be dressed up or dressed down. I've worn them with everything from yoga pants to pencil skirts.
2. Leggings
EVERYONE SHOULD OWN LEGGINGS! Okay, I know some would rather sport jeans, but personally, I absolutely love leggings. I'm pretty sure I keep Aerie in business from all the ones I buy at their stores. Like sweaters, they are extremely diverse and can be worn in a variety of ways. They even have them in all the colors of the rainbow. I only buy black though because it matches everything, but these babies are comfortable, last for a while, and can be found for a reasonable price in many places. Wear them to the gym, wear them to a nature walk, wear them to cozy movie date, or even wear them to a Thanksgiving dinner because no matter what, they will be faithful and look fabulous. Also, if you buy yoga ones, which are the types I own, your bum will thank you for making it look fit and flirty!
3. Scarves
This has to be the easiest go-to accessory for the Fall season. If you need a pop of color or simply need to get that neck of yours a little toasty, a scarf is your best friend for both. They come in an array of colors and prints and also make a great gift for any occasion!
4. Buns
Being in college, if there is one thing I can relate to, is that Monday mornings and pretty much any morning where you wake up half asleep is a day to don a bun. This signature hairstyle is like that extra cash you keep hidden for a rainy day. It's there when you really need it and surprisingly buns are a necessity quite a lot. It takes a few minutes to make and can easily be made to look effortless when paired with some dangly earrings and wait for it....a scarf.
5. Burt's Bees Cleansing Cloths
I cannot live without these cleansing cloths. Seriously, I would probably melt like the Wicked Witch of the West. Okay, I exaggerate. In all honesty though, I started using these this past summer while working at an away camp and have never looked back. It was quite the tedious task to find wipes that didn't make my eyes itch or dry my skin. These don't do either and for me that is a major win! I use them in the morning to refresh my face and yes to get rid of those dreadful eye boogies. Yes, I said eye boogies. Don't pretend like you haven't had them.
6. Equestrian Boots
Buying a well-made pair of leather boots is one of the best fashion investments one can make. I have had my equestrian boots for almost three years now and they still look great. They can be styled with any ensemble. I'm not really into combat boots or even those that look like Robin Hood went swashbuckling in them. Equestrian boots have a simple design, but also have an effortless chicness to them that will show itself in any outfit you wear.
7. Boot Socks
These are not only cute and match well with your boots and leggings, but they add extra warmth to your legs and feet on a cooler day. It's a win win...enough said.
8. Anything Mustard Yellow 
The description is pretty explanatory, but if you needed to pick a color to rely on during the Fall, try some mustard yellow. Anything in this color is a great choice to spice up an outfit made of darker tones such as burgundy or even purple. It looks amazing against darker hues and creates a contrast that gives you instant street style maven status. Just remember: if it goes well with a hot dog, it goes well with any outfit.


Other Bloggers Involved with Fall Essentials:
Simone Danielle- Fashion Runs the World
Diane Taha- Style Context
Heather- Fashionista NY Girl 

Bloggers Benefit: Fashion Blogger Simone Danielle on Spreading Breast Cancer Awareness

Beauty is her passion, style is her talent, and blogging is her professional habit. Yes, these are all things you could say about beauty and style blogger of Fashion Runs the World, Simone Danielle, but there is more to this stiletto clad maven than meet the eye. Her real love is put into trying to spread awareness for breast cancer. With a personal connection to the cause, Danielle spends time not only posting about make-up tips or what trends are currently making history, but supporting breast cancer awareness though foundations such as Susan G. Komen and movements like The Making Strides Walk. 

Danielle is the second Ambassador for Bloggers Benefit and one to be certainly proud of, due to her inspiring work ethic and strength against the overwhelming power of cancer on today's society. I met her a year ago when I hosted a fashion week lunch and to this day she has become a close blogging acquaintance as well as good friend. Between our conversations about running on no sleep at fashion week, to the politics of style as sex, Danielle and I always know how to have a fun time no matter what the environment. Because, like Danielle's natural knack for beauty and style, her loyalty and caring persona shine bright like the earrings camping out on her ears. It's no surprise that one day her contributions to the world not only fashion wise, but breast cancer awareness wise, will run the world. (pun totally intended) 

We have known each other for quite sometime now and I'd like to think we are blogging buddies. (laughs) Having you participate in Bloggers Benefit is special because you and I have watched each other's sites grow and and become better over time. Am I being sentimental here or do you feel the same? (laughs) 

I do feel the same way! You were one of the first people I actually met through blogging and I'm happy we did because we are good friends. I wish we would see each other more often. But yes our sites have grown since we met each other and it's only going to get better.

Last time I saw you was during September's New York fashion week and we were parting ways on Columbus Circle. Aside from attending a baby shower that day, what else has been going on with you and your fashion based world?

I've been working as well and looking into to getting my Masters degree in Marketing or Communications. I've been thinking about continuing my education for awhile and I can use either of these degrees in the fashion industry, so I'm excited. Plus I've been working on my site and looking for work within the fashion industry. I'm also going to the gym to lose some weight but I looovvveee food so much! It's been a bit of a struggle, but I do want to eat healthier.

On your blog you feature everything from make-up to street style. What about it is your favorite? 

I just love sharing two things that I'm passionate about with my readers. I like staying on top of trends, seeing what's new in fashion and I like those aspects and interoperate that in my outfits. With makeup, it's just so much fun. I wasn't always into it but watching YouTube changed that for me. I enjoy putting on makeup and sharing some of the tips I've learned or the newest lipstick I bought with my readers. It's fun. And my favorite part about it is that it is all subjective. What I like or think is trendy maybe different to the next person.

What made you fall for fashion and beauty?

I've always been into fashion since I was little. I would watch all the red carpet shows before the Oscars, Grammys, etc. to see what everyone is wearing, including the reporter. While I was watching it, I would critique each look especially the ones that were not good. Also, I watched America's Next Top Model a lot and thinking how I wanted to be apart of that world. For makeup I got into it when I was working at a CVS Pharmacy when I was 16. I was into little things like eyeshadow, but I really got into it when I was 23 and starting watching YouTube. I like that makeup enhances a person's beauty and it's fun to create different looks.

Right now, you only write for your blog. Would you ever consider starting a vlog or is being on a video a terrifying feat for you? 

I do want to start a YouTube channel. I am looking into purchasing a new camera that is good for taking video. I don't think I would do makeup tutorials but my channel would be about style, fashion and beauty. I won't lie starting a YT channel is a bit daunting for me because it's over saturated. Everybody is a fashion blogger or a YT vlogger so its hard to stand out amongst the crowd, but I'm willing to take on that challenge.  

Are the goals you had then for your site the same as they are today or have they changed over time?

They are the still the same for the most part. I decided to write my blog as a way to break into the fashion industry. That is the main goal for my blog, but over time I realized that I can make money from it so I'm looking into that. Because of my blog I am able to attend NYFW, but I want to see if I can go to London and Paris fashion week as well. That's my next plan. We should plan something. 

Speaking of goals, I started Bloggers Benefit to spread awareness for charities and campaigns through the influence of bloggers. Why did you decide to be apart of this movement?

I think this is a really good movement and it helps people become aware of the different organizations that are out there. Plus, as bloggers we get to share a piece of our personal life with our readers, which is a great thing as well because we could be helping someone who could be affected by any one of these diseases.

There is an endless amount of charity organizations out there, but you chose to represent The Susan G Komen association for breast cancer awareness. Was there a personal reason behind your decision? 

Yes there was. I lost my mother to Breast Cancer in 2010 and my grandmother (my mom's mother) to the disease as well when I was about eleven or twelve years old. When I lost my mom, however, it changed my whole life.

Along with the Susan G. Komen association, what do you do on your personal time to help with the cause? 

I'm going to be honest, I'm not as involved as I should be which is something I am working on. I want to participate in the walks and raise money for the cause not just during the month of October.

Has there ever been a point where you felt like you truly made a positive difference with it? Your Ah-Ha moment as Oprah would say.

No not really. But by sharing my story with my friends and telling them what I've learned through my loss; I think it has made them see certain things differently.

In the past couple of years the Susan G Komen charity has come under fire because it was discovered that the CEO, Nancy Brinker, was receiving a higher salary than the amount of donations used for actual research. How do you feel about this issue? Does it taint your belief in this particular company? How can you reassure others that the charity is still worth it?

This is the first time hearing of this and it's pretty messed up. However, I do believe in this company and think people should still donate to the cause. There are also other organizations that support Breast Cancer research such as Avon and Making Strides, where a person can donate to a team or to an individual person if they aren't comfortable with donating to Susan G. Komen.  This foundation still raises the most money for the cause though and I do hope that they do lower her salary and use the extra money to fund some more research.

What is your greatest advice for women to avoid getting breast cancer? 

Make sure to get a mammogram and look into seeing if the cancer runs in your family. If it does then its possible that you might get the cancer. Do your research. It is always better to catch the cancer early on than later so make sure to get your breasts check.

Is there a misconception about breast cancer? If so, why do think so many believe this? 

Well, I didn't know that there are different types of breast cancer. My mother had a form of breast cancer which is called Triple Negative. It is an aggressive form of breast cancer that is more likely to affect African American and Hispanic women. I didn't know that there was different forms of breast cancer. I just thought there was one type so I think that's a big misconception. Another misunderstanding is that it can be genetic. Before my mother passed away, she told me there is a test that I can take to see if I have the gene for breast cancer. Since my grandmother and my mom had it, it's probable that I might have the gene as well. If I do have it then I have to start getting mammograms early and take preventative steps to make sure that I can beat it. Also, most people think men can't get breast cancer but they definitely can. It's not just an issue that only women face. Men can get breast cancer too. You don't see a lot of men get the disease. Therefore, it's easy to not think they do, but with research you find these things out. 

If one cannot afford to donate financially, what are other ways to get involved and make a difference? 

You can volunteer during the walks or other events they have. Don't forget that sharing what you know about the disease to other people can help too!

What's the most inspiring thing you have ever been told that you would like to share with those dealing with breast cancer?

This isn't something that I have been told, but it is something that I tell myself.  No matter what, always be strong. It's hard to be strong because you want to break down and cry and it's okay to do so, but after you got it out of your system, you have to continue to fight and be strong.

Ensemble Details

Top: H&M

Skirt: Asos

Shoes: Zara

Bag: Zara

Beanie: Brooklyn Industries

Accessories: Forever 21

Watch: Michael Kors
Jacket: Forever 21

Get Involved with Breast Cancer Awareness by participating or donating to these two organizations! 

Making Strides Walk

Susan G. Komen

Game Day Gal: What to Wear for a Game this NFL Season

Do you hear that? The beers are being cracked open, chips are flying, and cheers are taking over the ears of everyone within a ten mile radius because that's how loud and involved the audience is. This must mean only one thing and no it is not that Game of Thrones is on. It's football season and the aura of sportsmanship, tailgating, and pulling one's hair out when your favorite wide receiver misses a brilliant pass, has officially kicked off. I swear there is no pun intended there. Okay, maybe there is.

On game day, supporting your beloved team in the right attire is as important as the food you eat while witnessing those possible historical sport-themed moments. I'm thinking fried chicken, burgers, and hot wings, yes lots and lots of hot wings. Sorry, this should be about what you are wearing. I just got carried away with the thought of food...and those hot wings. (Closes eyes, breathes in, and shakes head) Okay, I'm back.

What could you wear? Well, the possibilities are endless. My personal take though is that you can't go wrong with a pair of folded jeans, Keds, and the jersey for the player you like most. However, you could also sport some black leggings, a team jersey or hoodie, and some nice fall boots. It really depends on your comfort level, how warm you need to be (i.e will you be tailgating/attending the game or watching from an inside location), and what your personal style, in general, is. If you're the type to go topless and paint yourself instead, go for it!

To help out with the actual team merchandise for your ensemble, a great place to check out would be Fanatics. They are the online leading retailer specializing in sports apparel for almost any of your favorite teams, from various sports. I mention them because I have been thoroughly impressed with the amount of merchandise they have. Prices vary and at times Jerseys can be a bit expensive (when are they not), but the people I worked with, from their company, have been beyond nice and helpful. I also like the fact that they have so much variety in what they sell.

Therefore, in collaboration with Fanatics and their official NFL attire, I have chosen to make a couple of outfit ideas picking their Julian Edelman jersey, wide receiver for the Patriots, to add to the final look of each. Sure, I know what you must be wondering. Why didn't she chose a Tom Brady jersey?  Well, contrary to popular belief, as much as we Patriot fans love our Brady, we do admire and "know" of other players as well. With that said, I like Edelman and love the Patriots so picking his jersey was as easy as staring into his dreamy eyes. Don't worry I watch for more than his eyes. They are just a delightful addition to the game whenever you get a quick glance of them. Seriously though, get to your t.v. screen when they do a close-up of him next time. You can thank me later.

Sweater: Collective Habit, Football Necklace: Overstock, Scarf:Bellenew, Jeans:Uniqlo, Jersey:Fanatics, Keds:Infinity Shoes

Jacket: ABADAY, Leggings: Mango, Bracelet: Bloomingdales, Jersey: Fanatics, Boots: Necessary Clothing, Boot Socks: L.L.Bean, Head Band: Loris Shoes

Pigtails and Platforms: Celebrating "Baby One More Time's" Sweet 16 with its Memorable Fashion

"Baby One More Time" has turned 16! Do you feel that too..shivers of feeling old suddenly passing through your body? Well, don't worry we are all on the same page with this one. I was six years-old when this famous music video appeared on television. I couldn't look away and it was mostly because of how cool I thought that new girl looked with her pigtails and school uniform. I wanted to dance in the middle of a school hall like nobody was watching while simultaneously pulling off furry pom poms in my hair. Whatevs, it was the late 90s and at the time this was as daring as it got in the pop world. Maybe in another 16 years we can talk about Miley's fascination with a wrecking ball and finally feel like it wasn't a big deal, but a revolutionary moment in pop history. Actually, scratch that. I don't think that video will ever not be shocking. Yes I used a double negative. 

To celebrate "Baby's..." sweet sixteen here are some GIFs capturing the video's epic costumes that will forever rule adult Halloween parties, men's fantasies in the bedroom, and well our hearts in general. Whether you admit it or not, this song put Britney on the map and made her the pop princess she is to this day. Sure she has had her ups and downs, but at the end of the day, I still love that teenage girl who danced into my television screen sixteen years ago, held a snake like a boss while performing, and made a comeback after a few years of craziness like it was her job. 

Fun Facts About "Baby One More Time"

1. That iconic schoolgirl ensemble was actually from KMart and Britney's idea.

2. No item of clothing seen in the video cost more than $17. 

3. Does the school look familiar? That's because it is Venice Highs School where Grease was    filmed! 

4. How about those backflips? She was an accomplished gymnast by the age of 9. 

5. Her love interest in the music video was actually played by her cousin while the teacher was    portrayed by a close childhood friend. 

6. It makes sense Britney has scenes in a gym with a basketball, since she played the sport in high   school. 

Gif and Photo Credit: Google Images

"Facts" Credit: PopSugar 

Oscars 2014 Coverage: Red Carpet Look Book

This year's Oscars carpet style was all about strapless dresses, cream and silver inspired hues, and stunning embellishments. Although it could be said that this year's gowns were a bit boring rather than daring, in reality this year's looks were actually quite sophisticated and regal. During an era where showing more skin, wearing attention-grabbing silhouettes, and donning over-the-top hair is seen on the daily, it was a pleasant surprise to witness the glamour of old Hollywood return. 

From Left-Right: Kerry Washington, Bette Midler, Anna Kendrick 

From Left-Right: Idina Menzel, Laura Dern, Angelina Jolie

From Left-Right: Charlize Theron, Chrissy Teigen, Jennifer Lawrence

From Left-Right: Lupita Nyong'o, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Biel

From Left-Right: Sandra Bullock, Naomi Watts, June Squibb

From Left-Right: Kate Hudson, Julia Roberts, Emma Watson

From Left-Right: Meryl Street, Kristen Bell, Amy Adams

From Left-Right: Penelope Cruz, Kate Blanchett, Jennifer Garner

All Photos Credit: Getty Images/Academy Awards

Oscars 2014 Coverage: Starlet's Dress I'm Most Excited to See

Tonight's the night! The glitz and the glamour of the Academy Awards are finally back. With that, comes some beautifully dressed starlets. Out of all the actresses to grace the carpet tonight, there is one that I am particularly excited to see.

Lupita Nyong'o has been a delight on the Red Carpet this award's season. In fact, she might just win best dressed in all accounts for her daring bright colors, lovely silhouettes, and a red pout that could knock any of the competition off their tinsel town feet.

To celebrate her Oscar carpet debut, here's a look back at her phenomenal style this season.

Photo Credit:

 Mike Marsland/WireImage

Where: BAFTA's 

Wearing: Dior Couture 

Photo Credit: Matt Sayles/Invision AP

Where: Critics Choice Movie Awards 

Wearing: Calvin Klein 

Photo Credit: Tibrina Hobson/WireImage

Where: Entertainment Weekly SAG Awards Pre-Party

Wearing: Valentina

Photo Credit: Danny Moloshok/REUTERS

Where: Golden Globe Awards 

Wearing: Ralph Lauren 

Photo Credit: John Shearer/Invison/AP

Where: Govenors Awards

Wearing: Prabal Gurung

Photo Credit: John Shearer/Invison/AP

Where: Hollywood Film Awards Gala

Wearing: J. Mendel

Photo Credit: Todd Williamson/Invision/AP

Where: Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards

Wearing: Altuzarra 

Photo Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Where: Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards

Wearing: Elie Saab 

Photo Credit: Steve Granitz/WireImage

Where: Producer's Guild of America Awards

Wearing: Stella McCartney

Photo Credit: Lester Cohen/WireImage

Where: Screen Actor's Guild Awards

Wearing: Gucci 

NYFW Coverage: Academy of Art Runway Show

When one thinks fashion week, many connect the famous week-long event with even more famous names such as Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, or even DVF. However, fashion week does not only belong to the designers who "made it," but to the ones who are on the road to that same brightly spotlighted, model filled, and organza encompassed world. Therefore, to watch the future of fashion grace the runway, by the hands of a few current college students, can be quite the treat. This was the case for the Academy of Art Show. 

The show, which featured looks from various young designers, delivered everything from Willy Wonka inspired bright hues and cartoonish silhouettes, to modern prints, and over-sized coats. Out of all the collections, my favorite would have to be the the lavender line. Lavender hasn't been a color seen too often in recent times. People either pick light purple or more a long the lines of everyone's favorite talking dinosaur, Barney. This time though, lavender had its spotlight and it was breathtaking. With grayish undertones and silver embellishments, this line brought the entire show, or at least me, to an utterly impressed moment of bliss.

In its entirety, if I had to compare this show to their last one in September, which I also attended, I would have to say that last time they were just some nice students studying fashion, but this time they were potential epic designers in the making. That's why, for me, it is so important to appreciate the students that showcase their work during NYFW. These are the designers who will one day take over, while all the current ones are aging and hitting retirement. So watch out and never take for granted a college fashion student with a needle and thread. Amazing what a few classes and a cat-walk can do. 

Favorite Thing: Moral Support

When the designers made their way out onto the runway, many thought the show had ended, but it in fact was just beginning. One of the designer's mother's stood up, started yelling, and moving her hips like Shakira, in support of her child. Everyone, which is easily over two hundred people, immediately began to not only clap for the designers, but their families as well. This one mother brought laughter and smiles all around. Considered to be the best part of the line, it represented something deeper than seams and social media. She reminded everyone that through this week of image, materialism, and at times celebritism, there will always be family and that moment they see you accomplish your dreams. Plus, I won't lie. I cried a bit when this happened. 

Photo Album

NYFW Coverage: Charlotte Ronson Fall/Winter 2014

Forget the 80's! The 90's are back! Instead of parading on Kelly and Brenda's wardrobe for the series Beverly Hills 90210, they are instead strutting it on the runway these days, particularly Charlotte Ronson's. The English designer, showcased her 2014 Fall/Winter collection at the Hudson Hotel this weekend. Instead of doing a typical sit down runway show, she changed things up and featured all the models on the stage, posing as if in a portrait. Each one took their turn to walk the runway and give the audience a closer look into this velvet, sheer, and floral filled line.

With some music assembled by DJ Samantha Ronson, that made me feel as if I were in some little hipster bistro, accessories by Tuleste, and hair/makeup by Maybelline and Batiste, the show was a complete success, in my eyes. The line flowed well and had its signature pieces. What brought me back to the 90's was definitely the velvet and floral print influences. These two were constantly seen in 90's films and television shows. We all remember that floral baby doll dress or that velvet grunge look. Don't lie. You know you either owned one or rocked it. 

The designer also went against the whole "less is more" motto and chose to use silhouettes that would cover up full body or at least most. Sure it is a Fall and Winter line, but many designers feature pieces that reveal a lot more skin, even for colder weather.  Not Ronson, she led the designs with higher collars and longer length dresses and skirts. Even her sheer pieces covered up well, giving them a sultry yet elegant essence. 

Favorite Thing: Stripe Mesh Blue Dress 

If there was one design out of the collection that stood out, it would have to be Ronson's Stripe Blue Mesh Dress. The moment I made it through the crowd and next to the runway, my eyes immediately drifted to this one frock. Maybe it was the color or the the sheer paneling between each blue stripe, but it just popped for me in the most magical of ways. It's kind of like Chris Pine's eyes..just enough blue to fall into a dreamy state. 

Not Loving It: Socks and Heels 

Modern Vice supplied the models with lovely lace up heels, but they pretty much lost their spotlight due to being paired with lame black socks. This look chopped most of the model's legs, especially since, the length of most of the pieces had already covered them to begin with. I can understand doing it for cooler weather purposes, but that is what booties are for. 

Photo Album