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

Interview with a Beauty Expert: 'The Makeup Blogger's' ChristinaFarrell Talks Comic-Con 2013

Photo Credit (Clockwise): Christina Farrel- Christina Farrell/themakeupblogger.com, The Originals- Getty Images/Warner Bros., The Edge of Tomorrow- Getty Images/Warner Bros., The Big Bang Theory- Getty Images/Warner Bros.

It's a bird! It's a plane! It's Comic-Con! Every year, thousands of fans dress-up in their favorite character's costumes, conjugate in one very large place, and spend not only lots of money, but hours waiting on lines to meet some of the most famous names in the Hollywood and fantasy universe. Taking place in San Diego, California, Comic-Con has become the biggest gathering of movie, comic book, television, toy, and video game fans anywhere, winning the hearts of thousands each year.

While keeping up with all the buzz, I spoke to acclaimed beauty blogger Christina Farrell. The mind behind the hit web page "The Makeup Blogger," Farrell was more than kind enough to tell me about her experience working the Warner Brothers tent at Comic-Con this year. A veteran of participating in Comic-Con, her job was definitely one that many fans and beauty lovers would covet. Farrell got the privilege of doing touch-ups on the stars at the WB tent, bumping into some of the biggest names in television and films alike. Pretty much, she is in charge of making them look marvelous at all times. Now that is dedication!

Comic Con is definitely a crowd attracting event, filled with an amazing reputation to be big, swarming with fan favorite celebs, and eye-catching costumes! How did it feel to be a part of one of the most epic "fandemonium" events in the world?:

I have been working behind the scenes at Comic-Con for over three years, and it is absolutely my favorite event. I love that the celebrities have a great time, and that everyone is there to support each other. The level of excitement is amazing. 

You had the thrilling and fortunate opportunity to work comic con, putting your make-up skills to good use, touching up some of the most well known WB stars. Did you ever have a geeky fan moment when you had to do one of the celebrities touch-ups? In Fact, who was the funnest person to work on?: 

Well, you can't really geek out when your working, but I will say that I absolutely loved meeting and working with Johnny Galecki for The Big Bang Theory. He was ridiculously nice, and I am a huge fan of the show. 

We all know that Comic-Con is the epicenter of dress up. Being in the middle of it all, were you able to witness any truly spectacular outfits and costumes? 

Unfortunately, I didn't get to see a lot of the costumes, but for a brief moment I got to see an amazing costume of a young bit dressed as Edward Scissorhands.

Events like these are a lot of work, but a dream to work at for anyone devoted to make-up or even costume design. What's the craziest thing that happened while working at comic con this year? Do you have any advice for those aspiring to handle such a large event?: 

This year was wonderfully mellow. No craziness at all.  My advice would be to be prepared for quick makeup looks, bring products that can beat the heat, and be professional at all times. It is stressful for the celebrities and you need to be respectful of that. 

Lastly, what were your go-to-products to use on the stars for touch-ups?: 

I relied on Orlane highlighter pen, Make Up For Ever Aqua shadows, and HD concealers and Face Ateiler lip glaze.

5 Tricks to Hide Sweat During a Heat Wave

Sweating sucks! Who knew that perspiring water out of your body could be so not fabulous. After all, wet t-shirt contests make having wet clothing seem like a sexy thing. When it is sweat and not water though, it's not exactly what I would call a Bond girl moment. Being so, here are five helpful tricks to keep your sweat a secret and not something public. Because whether you're getting married, being interviewed for an important job, or just walking the streets to your favorite bakery, in this nation wide heatwave,  pit stains are not very attractive and sweating in even the hidden areas of your outfit and body can be an uncomfortable puddle.

1.) Talc (Baby Powder) 

This little trick was used by grandmother religiously. Anytime it was stifling outside, the talc came out and the powder started flying. To this day, whenever I may feel like under boob sweat is coming on, and yes I said under-boob sweat, I take my bottle of baby power out and put some on. What the powder does, is it covers up the area that is liable to sweat and keeps it dry by absorbing any possible drips. Put enough that you feel comfortable with. With that being said, don't sprinkle it nor drown yourself in an abyss of white powder. Pat that area down and smooth it over so it becomes practically invisible. 

2.) Loose Clothes

Honestly, the easiest thing for you to do is to just wear light clothing. Don't attempt to wear a body contouring dress If you do, when you sweat, which you will, all the areas that are dripping like a monsoon, will stain the clothing and show in disheveling sweat lines. If you are being interviewed or even going on a first date, this look is so chic and professional.  Go for a loose and flowy top, bottom, and or dress. Chiffon is great for this! This way the fabric isn't sticking to your body, for the sweat to stain, when it counts most.

3.) Wear White and Print Clothing

White clothing and and those with prints are simple choices to use when trying to hide the fact that you are sweating. Dark colors and other bright hues show sweat lines like it is their part-time job. With white, it's not as noticeable because of how light the color is. As for prints, the crazier the better. Prints and patterns are so distracting to the eye, that someone passing by in the street won't even see that stain caressing your underarms. Polka dots, stripes, and tribal prints are the best!

4.) Try Going Sleeveless 

When in doubt, going sleeveless is always a quick fix. Of course, sleeveless is not the best for a professional setting, but for a summer BBQ or a night out with the girls, going sleeveless is always welcome. Without any sleeves, your underarms have nothing to drip their tears on. Just go to the powder room every few hours and pat yourself with a tissue and keep the areas dry like the Sahara. Oh and if you go the sleeveless route, put on invisible deodorant. When sweating, sometimes deodorant becomes clumpy. Make sure to own a good deodorant that you can trust not to have this problem with. I suggest, Dove Go Fresh Antiperspirant. I used it during a hot summer in Europe and it didn't stain, clump, or smell. Instead, it kept me dry, smelled yummy, and stayed invisible.  

5.) Tinted Moisturizer for Your Face

Some may say I am crazy for suggesting putting this on while sweating, but hear me out.The idea is to put it on those places that become shiny on your face from perspiring. I dab a little bit on my nose and t-zone. You also have to use a well made concealer that won't run if you sweat. My favorite is "hope in a tinted moisturizer" by philosophy. I use the light to medium shade with SPF 20. This way, not only is your face hiding sweaty shine, but you are moisturizing it, and keeping it protected from the sun. That's a win win!

This Bites: How to Cover Up Mosquito Bumps and Avoid Scarring

If there is one part of summer that I can definitely live without, and I am sure you can as well, it would have to be the nuisance that is known as a mosquito. It's like they are mini vampires biting you  every chance they get. If they looked like the vamps from the Twilight films I would be fine with them circling me every five seconds, but until they are some how able to transform themselves into a Cullen looking species, I would rather they just back off. After all, it's not like there bites are fun and dandy to deal with later on.

Once mosquito's do there damage and leave you with a swelled up bump on every part of your body, and I mean everywhere because they are like ninjas when getting through your clothes, you are now left with an intense itch on every bump. This leads you to scratch those areas like a dog with flees. At first, it's not a big deal, but in reality your little bites have long term conditions, as well, if you don't approach them correctly. The sun in the summer is very intense, and when you are outside doing anything from tanning to just taking a walk in the park, your skin can easily scar. If scarring is a problem for you, then here are ways to avoid scarring because of mosquito bites and how to cover them up. 

Cover it Up

Like most things you hate about your skin, you  can always hide it. Of course, I do support every girl in flaunting her natural skin, flaws and all, because it is what makes you unique. If, on the other hand, a mosquito pricks your face or any other place on your body and you don't want to necessarily show it because you are going out, then just cover it up. During an online chat, hosted by Cosmopolitan UK and beauty blogger/vlogger of the Beatuy Crush, Sammi Maria, I asked her what to use to cover up scars due to mosquito bites. The beauty expert simply answered, "MAC Face and Body would work great!" So there you have it. I did some research and it turns out that this product is in fact "great!" Not only is it lightweight, but it has natural finish to it that will make you look like your not even wearing it to begin with. To top that off, one bottle takes care of not only your face, but your entire body, saving you money from having to buy a foundation for two separate things. Use a dab of this on any area touched by a mosquito and your skin will seem as though it never even landed on you.

Avoid Scratching Heavily

Sure the scratching eases you now, but it actually adds to your chances of your bites scarring. Yup, and it isn't pretty. The more you irritate that area, the more the skin can become sensitive, red, and even scraped open. If you have to scratch, do it softly, not like your going at it with a cactus! 

Use Ice to Cool it Down 

I love ice cubes! When it comes to mosquito bites replace your heavy and constant scratching with a cooler solution. Ice cubes are natural, cold, and can ease the itchy feeling building up from your bite. Just rub the cubes on the areas affected and you will feel temporary relief from your insanity. The best part is, now the bite won't be irritated and eventually become a scar. 

Wait Before Tanning 

I know I know...it's summer and to not tan now is like to not have Turkey on Thanksgiving, but waiting a day or two before you lay in the sun for hours is actually they best way to avoid getting any scars. The first couple of days of having a bite is usually when it is most red and more susceptible to make a permanent mark on your body.  Use those couple of days to stay in the air conditioning and watch reruns of shows you missed or go shopping at your favorite mall instead. 

Smoking and Drinking: A Boobs Worst Nightmare

   

Jennifer Lopez at the 2012 Academy Awards 

     Like to drink and smoke a cigarette...especially while partying on the weekend? Well if you said yes then you should probably consider what it's doing to you. Of course I am not talking about the always talked about lung cancer and so on and so forth, but rather what it does to girls plump and perky boobs. You know that little myth about getting a saggy bust as you age? Well wake up and smell the plastic surgery, because this myth is no more false than Taylor Swift having relationship dilemmas. Turns out that drinking and smoking actually speed up the process of the saggy breast saga. Long story short, if you don't cut down or at least try to stop your tatas are going to look like they are aged fifty while you may only be twenty-eight. The reason why? Smoking, besides giving you bad breath and all the other downsides, also interferes with skins elasticity. That's why cleaner and healthier living girls who don't smoke and only drink once in a while, have much perkier breasts for a much longer time. Early sagging also depends on when you started boozing and smoking it up. If you were a rebellious teen who started drinking and using cigarettes in high school...well the odds are not going to be exactly uphill for you, but rather very downhill instead. Get it because your boobs will be not so awesome looking by your mid-twenties to thirties? So try to remember next time you go out for a smoke or a few shots of tequila, that is this really worth me losing a good ten years of magazine cover-worthy breasts? After all, your twenties and early thirties is when you have to take advantage of your well-endowed perkiness whether you’re an A, B, C, or D girl. The proof is in the pudding. Look at Jennifer Lopez for instance. She doesn't smoke, drink as much, or do drugs, and her boobs, as well as everything else, look amazing at the age of 43. Compare her to Lindsay Lohan, who at 18, already looked 25 because of all the cigarettes and drinking. Don't worry though because a droopy bust is not the end of the world, but if you want to avoid getting it earlier on and you smoke or drink, than at least attempt to cut down on both and you will be a happy. 

Sources: Cosmopolitan Magazine and Jean Loftus MD

                                                                                                             XOXO,

                                                                          Katie