Chapter 8: Oversized Ralph Lauren T-Shirt Dress, Passion Twists & Hillside Adventures

beauty, fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, ootd, style, travel, trends, Uncategorized

So I never imagined the year moving by so quickly. I mean, I remember New Year’s like it was yesterday. We’re already in the eighth month of the year, and it’s forced me to deal with a lot of things I’ve been avoiding for the last few months. Everywhere I look, I see another post, whether on Instagram or Facebook or just the general worldwide web – I see #hotgirlsummer and I’m not sure if I’m having one. If anything, it’s introspective summer to me, darling. I plan to spend the rest of this year pretty focused and low-key for the most part. That includes some out of country travelling, maintaining a pretty flexible schedule, budgeting for new developments that I have planned and just keeping up with my overall happiness.

I decided to switch up my hair game this summer as well and step out of my faux locs box and try passion twists. I saw that the girl who normally does my locs was now offering the style and I couldn’t resist. I managed to wear them for eight weeks and I feel like I really got my money’s worth (not to mention the countless compliments I received, even when they got “stale”) . They were a lot more manageable than the previous hairstyles that I’ve worn in the past, and I found myself more open to styling the twists due to how soft they were. I decided to get them shoulder length due to the summer months (I didn’t want to feel annoyed by long tresses).

Now that I’m no longer protective-styling my hair, I’m rocking my natural hair. Yep, it feels hella strange and it’s something I’m really not used to as my edgy boy cut days when the barbershop was my hairdresser are ancient history. I’m trying really hard not to cut my hair but I haven’t ruled it out entirely because I really wanna maintain a somewhat “together appearance”, if you know what I mean.

Just as with my hair, my fashion is ever changing as well. I’ve gone from very fitted outfit options to more loose fitted ones, and then it all depends on the occasion and my mood. My white Ralph Lauren oversized shirt dress has been quite the find..my sister travelled to New York two months ago, and my only request while being away was oversized shirts/ dresses (I have a little obsession with them). This one in particular has been very comfy and it’s definitely my style. I can say sissy did a great job snatching this piece up. I paired it with some pinstriped Forever 21 sailor shorts I’ve had for a long time, that I’ve pretty sure I’ve only worn once or twice. Overall, my outfit was comfy and summer friendly for my Sunday adventure.

Lemme know below what has been your summer go-to hairstyles and the fashion trends you all are feeling right now. Until next time. Xoxo.

Outfit Deets: Shorts: Forever 21 // Oversized Tee: Ralph Lauren // Sandals: Ebay // Bag: Steve Madden // Bracelets & Chains : Ebay // Hair: @Fauxlocs94 – Instagram // Watch: Michael Kors

Lost Files & The Heatwave

beauty, fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, style, travel, trends, Uncategorized

So I’m sure I’m not the only person who is suffering badly from the current weather situation. For the last month or so, I’ve been dreading the next few months with an absolute passion. I’m usually a lover of the summer months because it’s a time where I get to debut two or even three of the new swimsuits that I purchased with the intention of strolling along the beaches of my island home Jamaica in. However, I’m not sure how things will turn out this year. The heat wave currently being experienced is like no other. Last Saturday’s temperature actually recorded as one of Jamaica’s highest historically at a mean 102 degrees Fahrenheit. I’m still trying to plan at least one trip this summer so let’s see how it goes.

Until then, I’ve been living vicariously through a few pictures that were taken three months ago on a trip that I took to the North Coast. The photos were resident on my camera until now. The trip was a combination of rest and relaxation, beautiful beaches, an intimate resort stay, delicious food and world class hospitality. I had every intention of making a post but somewhere between working and life changes, the post never happened. There were also my laptop issues… That being said, I hope you enjoy these summer inspired pictures from my weekend getaway.
P.S. Both swimsuits I bought on Ebay more than a year ago for no more than ten or twelve dollars each.
Until next time. Xoxo.

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Laptops, GOT Finale, Life Update

fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, trends, Uncategorized

Third time’s a charm, right? This is my third attempt of getting this blog post out. My first attempt ended with me falling asleep violently due to me being tired from just being hot all the damn time and overall fatigue from working an eight-hour day. My second attempt came last Sunday afternoon when I was totally in my element to get all my words out, with a cup of iced coffee by my side. After a long day of house chores and telephone conversations, catching up with my friends in that small window we adults have because friendships don’t require everyday communication anymore, I was on a roll and writing my heart away. Somewhere in the middle of me writing the post and chatting away, I somehow manage to not autosave my post and with my luck, my laptop decided to reboot. With that said, all my words were a mere memory. Back to the drawing board I went. NB: That day was also the same day as the Game of Thrones finale, which was just sucky overall.

Amongst other issues I’ve been having over the last few months. The scarcity in blog posts were not my doing. My ol’ faithful, also known as my laptop, started to show signs of wear and age when the spacebar decided to stop working. That made it ever so hard to do anything typing related that required or needed spaces. I went back and forth for a while contemplating if I should try fixing the old girl or just buying a new one. In the end, I bought a new one. I had the old one approximately four years and it was a hand me down from my older sister, who didn’t see the significance of having one at the time. For that I was grateful.

My new blogging companion is the HP Brand, which is the same as the old one. Yes, I’m a creature of habit, except I got it in white instead of black (I think the white looks way sleeker, but I know I may have to get a cover of some kind for it to ensure it stays this way) . The specifications for this one are really good and it really motivates me to write new content. I contemplated if I should note the specifications here but I’d rather not bore you. It’s good, y’all can take my word for it.

Otherwise, I’m ok. I’ve had a radical change in my life this past month in terms of responsibilities and I’m still adjusting. I’d never say growing up I was rich but there was a lot that was done for me. I’m living and learning and making the best of what life has to offer. I’ve always been a worrier about the most random things and I’m trying to get that under control. I’m trying to hold on dearly to my love of fashion and still in pursuit of it. I can honestly say that a monotonous 9-5 ish has consumed a lot of my energy and creative thinking. I’m hoping within the next year or so, I can manage to have a more flexible schedule and that I can actually balance the things I love and manage life obligations as well. Wish me luck babes!

Until next time. Xoxo.

Lady In Red

beauty, fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, ootd, style, travel, trends, Uncategorized

Hey loves! It’s been a moment and there are a few things that have been on my mind. More specifically, body image and self-esteem. We live in a self-conscious society, where image matters A LOT. If anyone ever tells you any differently, don’t believe them. Being a fashion lover, it can be quite tricky for me when I’m purchasing clothing items and even shoes. Growing up, I used to watch fashion shows on the Style Network, which was a sister station of the E! Network back in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, and I was always so fascinated by the different outfits by well-known designers and even the models themselves. I’ve always been above average everything. By the time I started high school, I was 5’3”(this which is Kim Kardashian’s height on a good day). Needless to say, I was my father’s child and I was gonna be a tall girl. Not only that, I was a thicker girl too. That combination made it super hard to shop, and I’d always been conscious about wearing certain things. (Insert awkward teenage phase here). Over time, I balanced out and I came into my own. It wasn’t easy but I made it my duty to become the person I am today.

Being a woman in today’s society, and seeing size 0 models can mess with your brain. Going into stores and knowing it may be a hit or miss trip isn’t encouraging. My advice is to work with the elements and cultivate a style that is your own, whatever that may be.

I teamed up with Gole, a retailer on Instagram, and I shot a few photos featuring the beautiful outfit you see down below. Since red is my favourite color next to black, the decision to choose this outfit wasn’t a hard one once I saw it. The fiery set was super comfortable and I definitely can see myself wearing this outfit again and again. To get the link to my outfit, click here

Until next time loves. Xoxo.

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Freeman Polishing Charcoal & Black Sugar Gel Mask & Scrub Review

beauty, fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, Makeup, style, trends, Uncategorized

Hey loves! In addition to my fashion and travel content, I’ve decided to share a few of the beauty products I use as well here on the blogspace. This year, I’ve made it my duty to be more keen on my skincare routine and to incorporate new products as well. I’ve always used face masks and scrubs from the St. Ives brand, but I wanted to switch things up, so I settled on the Freeman brand.

While browsing my eBay app for affordable masks, I managed to stumble upon the Polishing Charcoal & Black Sugar Gel Mask & Scrub. To be honest, I went in with no expectations. After reading a few reviews, I decided to give it a try based on my current needs, added it to my cart and checked out.

I found the product to be extremely helpful, as it was able to rid my face of makeup build up, but was not so harsh that it irritated my skin. I’ve been using it twice a week for approximately two months now with no issues. The mask is also sweet smelling and even has a sugary taste (I accidentally tasted it during an application).

If you are looking for an affordable product that cleanses your pores and gives a smooth, glowy finish to your skin, I would definitely recommend it. I’ve added two pictures below showing my face during and after my last application. Until next time. Xoxo.

During the application

After the application

Let’s Chat, Shall We? – Christmas Edition

beauty, inspiration, lifestyle, trends, Uncategorized

So as I am starting to write this piece at 6pm on a Sunday evening, I’m drinking a cup of coffee as I didn’t get to nap today. My bestie who now lives in New York came back home for a visit just yesterday and we spent a few hours hanging out and chatting and eating like gals do when they haven’t seen each other in ages. Otherwise, There’s so much to catch up on, I hardly even know where to start to be honest.

So my last post was my random sporadic post on the introduction of the fall season and some thoughts that were on my mind. Alot has happened since then. And I mean alot. From my personal life to my professional life to the changes I need to make for the upcoming year that is 2019. I’m hoping I can write most of this before 90 day Fiance starts in an hour or so. Yes, you read that right. Don’t judge me.

So I decided to leave my old job and I now work in the financial industry yet again. I honestly thought going back wouldn’t be challenging for me at all as I managed to survive seven whole years in it and when I actually put the work in, I can do it effortlessly. About three days into my training, that old feeling started creeping in again and it really didn’t make me feel good at all. I manage to complete the training but there’s still this lingering feeling of dissatisfaction on my end. Don’t get me wrong, the people I’ve met thus far at this new job have been really personable, accommodating and sweet if I can even say that. It’s just the field I’ve come to despise and I know this now.

Coming to this realization, I know I need to make some changes AGAIN and I really have no regrets doing so. I always remember reading an article that stated that the place you work and the actual work you do shouldn’t be an emotional burden to you because you are at your place of employment for the majority of your days and that is super important. I’m on a mission to find my best job fit and no matter how long it takes I will get there. I know I will.

When to comes to matters of the heart, I don’t really say much here but what I can say is that this year I found myself in an emotional tailspin relationship-wise. I ended a relationship earlier this year with someone I’ve known for quite some time and I’ve managed to meet someone that captures my heart in a way I never knew was possible. What’s weird is that if you had asked me at the beginning of the year if I saw my year end looking like this, I would have probably would have laughed at you so frigging hard. It all came out of left field but I’m embracing every second of it. I don’t know where my new person and I will end up but I do know I’ve taken a slower approach this time around and I am not making myself oblivious to certain red flags as I have in the past. It feels good all around so far so let’s see what happens.

With the new year right around the bend, I’ve decided not to make any resolutions. Every year I make one or two and I never fulfil them entirely. So with that said, I’m just gonna go with the flow and live life as it comes. I hope everyone manages to have a decent Christmas with their loved ones and a happy, blessed and productive 2019.

Until next time. Xoxo.

Fall is here…..Life Update….Random Thoughts

inspiration, lifestyle, Uncategorized

Hello my faithful readers and newbies as well! With the change in season, I’ve had a few changes myself.

I would have had a post up long ago but I decided against posting a piece I wrote in a moment when my thoughts were truly scattered. After a re-read a few days later, I knew it wasn’t post-worthy.

Apart from that hiccup, I’ve been in good spirits ( for the most part).

The darker, warmer months always make me feel more cozy and secure.

I’m celebrating my 30+ tax birthday in a week and I’m usually pretty down but I’m actually looking forward to it. #scorpioseason

I will be going on a mini vacay and I will be taking you all with me 🙂

I made banana pancakes this morning and I’m pretty proud of myself #icantcookatall

Everytime I’m about to give up on the human race, I meet a decent human being.

I’ve been thinking about Europe and traveling alot lately.

Brown liquor is my drink of choice in most social settings.

Always remember…..

Fake it ’til you make it.

Not everyone is going to like you and that’s OKAY.

Do at least one great, memorable thing every year of your life.

Never do anything you don’t love for very long. You will start feeling like a prisoner. Physically and mentally.

Remember the Three P’s : Prayer, Patience & Positivity.

Until next time. Xoxo.

The Infamous White Button Down

beauty, fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, Makeup, ootd, style, trends, Uncategorized

Hey loves! Fall is approaching and believe me when I say I’m welcoming it with open arms. I’ve been super busy these days, hence the lack of activity here on the blog, but it was partly due to life obligations i.e work ( I’m hoping one day blogging can fully pay my bills and cover my expenses), and also a lack of motivation. I’ve actually read a few blogs in the last few weeks where bloggers have been stating that in recent times they have not been motivated to write and /or create content and even some Youtube influencers as well. Most of what I post here comes from things I can really relate to and can really feel good about. So for me, it’s not about what’s popular or trending, it’s about what I like.

Living in the Caribbean can be a bit tricky when it comes to seasons and styling. Where as in other regions by the end of summer, a person would be able to fully line up their fall wardrobe and be ready to embrace the cooler weather, here we may experience cooler nights but the days are usually still hot as hell until around end of year. This particular shoot day was both sunny and breezy.

That being said, I did a little prep myself with items I already own and a piece that I received through a collaboration. I partnered with Oh Desire to feature one of its item on the blog. I went through all their pieces and eventually stumble upon this white button down shirt dress with puffy sleeves. I found it in the dress section but being as tall as I am, I styled it as a shirt instead. I paired it with simple Old Navy Jeans and a pair of boots I found on Ebay some months back. I quite liked the crisp lines of the shirt dress and found that my jeans gave it a more edgy look. Not to mention my love for neutrals.

I already have my next blog post lined up, outfit and all, and I do hope I’ll get to shoot some pictures for it as I continue my fall fashion lineup. Comment below your favorite fall finds and outfits. Until next time. Xoxo.

Outfit Deets: Shirt Dress – Oh Desire // Jeans – Old Navy (Old) // Boots – 14th & Union // Bag – Dash Clothing (Sold Out)

The Two Piece Set – Summer Style Takeover

beauty, fashion, inspiration, lifestyle, ootd, style, trends, Uncategorized

Holy heatwave! Summer is in full effect and I don’t know about you but it is hot as hell here in Jamaica. When I step outside my car, office or out of my humble abode, I start sweating like a hooker in church. Yes, it’s that serious. As a result, I’ve been wearing alot less clothing than norm these days.

I’ve always been a fan of the infamous two piece set trend. It’s a easy and fast look that not only leaves you looking and seeming stylish (even if you don’t consider yourself a fashionista), you will look put together and feel great rocking your outfit. The set that I wore,I bought about three months ago. I was contacted by The Helpful Vegan boutique on Instagram about doing a collaboration with them and I accepted. I ended up choosing the Coastal Set as I thought the style was super cute. The material has a blue vertical stripe print, is really lightweight and extremely comfortable. I’m pretty tall ( 6’1″ to be exact) and the shorts were high waisted and gave me enough booty coverage as well. It was perfect for the Sunday sightseeing I went on, in addition to taking pictures for this post. Comment below what your favorite summer style has been. Until next time. Xoxo.

Outfit Deets: Two Piece Set: The Helpful Vegan // Sandals :Shemz Footwear ( made in Jamaica) // Watch: Michael Kors // Handbag : Ebay

Hidden Treasure

beauty, fashion, food, inspiration, lifestyle, ootd, style, travel, trends, Uncategorized

Happy Monday loves! It’s a rainy long weekend and I’m reporting live from the place that I rest my head at night i.e my bed, and I must say I am fully rested. I’ve had a relaxing and exciting weekend and needlesstosay, I have little to complain about. It’s currently a long weekend here in Jamaica as we are celebrating the independence of our country. Initially I didn’t have much of a plan to make any kind of trip anywhere, but at the last minute, I managed to venture West of the island to the parish of St. Elizabeth. This parish, which is becoming one of my favorites, is a place I’ve visited maybe three times in my lifetime.

A few months back, somehow I ended up on the AirBnB website looking at places I could stay in New York when my original place of stay fell through (still a work in progress). I decided curiously to put “Jamaica” in the search bar and noticed while browsing that there were alot of people here in my own country who had been utilizing this avenue as a means of income and a way of tourism. I scanned all fourteen parishes and St. Elizabeth actually stood out to me the most. At the time, I was trying to plan a weekend stay and that too was proving to be rather difficult due to timing and funding. That research never left my mind and best believe it was on my “to-go” list. A weekend would have been heavenly, but a one day trip did suffice.

It was all I remembered and then some. As we drove from the main road that took us to the capital of St. E, I noticed how much more developed and populated it had become compared to the eight years prior when I visited. We made a quick bathroom and snack stop in the town and then continued on our journey to our destination. I was able to win over a nice older gentleman as he was picking mangoes on our journey and he gave me one of the biggest juiciest mangoes I’d seen in a long time ( that will be my dinner later today).

After hours of driving, three to be exact, we finally got to the popular six mile long Treasure Beach. Being a public holiday, there were quite a few people there as well from locals to foreigners alike and people of all ages. The weather was a bit overcast but honestly I didn’t mind because I didn’t want to any harsh tan lines on me would last for months. As I snuggled my toes in the black sand, I felt like I’d never leave. It was perfect weather and the water was nice and warm. After an hour of swimming, we grabbed a bite to eat at Frenchman’s Reef Restaurant and watched the sunset on a relaxing Sunday evening.

I’m already researching and planning my next mini vacay so stay subscribed to me so you don’t miss out. Below I’ve added some pictures for your viewing pleasure. Until next time. Xoxo.