Lace & Khakis

Lace Shirt-Nordstrom
Skirt-Old Navy
Shoulder Bag- Macys
Belt-Vintage
Braided Bracelet-H&M
Flats- Aerosoles

Favorite Nail Polishes

From L to R: Sally Hansen Hard As Nail in Toffee, American Apparel Nail Lacquer in Palm Springs, Sally Hansen Hard As Nail Xtreme Wear in Cherry Red, and Sally Hansen Hard as Nail in Natural Tint.

All of my close friends know how much I love wearing light pinks, beige, and nude colors. So same goes for my nail polish taste. On a regular day I am usually wearing one of these two colors.


My Current Nails

What are some of your favorite nail polish colors? Any good recommendation for nude color polishes?

Love,

Lisa

My Top 3: Makeup Highlighters

Highlighter: What is it?
Typically in the makeup world, a highlighter is what a makeup artist uses to "highlight" or in other words brighten up a person's face. Usually it is applied on the top of the cheekbones, the eyebrow bone, the inner tear ducts, down the bridge of the nose, and the cupid's bow (The top of the lips).

My Opinion
As an aspiring photographer and makeup enthusiast, I am in charge of making our clients feel beautiful and confident. The first step to that process is making their skin look amazing. From the different photo shoots Kevin and I have done, I can tell you that the highlighter is my SECRET WEAPON. Some of my clients even ask me what I do to make them "glow" and "radiant" in their photos because they love how they look! I always know exactly what they're talking about when they say that. 

Here are my Top 3 Favorite highlighters:

#1 Clinique Shimmering Tones Powder Quad (Top Right Brick)

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, I would definitely recommend this shimmer quad. For this review, I'm only talking about the top left square. I find that I reach for this the most when I need a highlighter. It's easy to use because I can choose to use a brush or my ring finger to apply it on. It gives my face this radiant healthy glow and the shimmer is flattering, not overwhelming. The other colors can be used as separate eyeshadows or all together as a nice shimmery bronzer.

#2 Smashbox Artificial Light

 

For photoshoot purposes, I reach for this one the most. I'm a big fan of Smashbox products because all of the products I buy from them always end up being some of my best purchases. This "artificial light" gives me the glow that I'm looking for. It gives off a little bit of a pink hued micro finish shimmery color. I have tried it on almost every skin color and have had good results every time!

#3 Anastasia Matte Highlighter Pencil

Anastasia is a makeup brand that primarily sells eyebrow products. I hear they have some of the best eyebrow pencils and powders in the business (and I will most definitely try them out in the future). I love this highlighting pencil because unlike the others, it is MATTE. There is no shimmer whatsoever in this highlighter. This works best when I'm going for a more natural look, nothing too fussy.

Here are my Swatches (In order)

As you can see they all give off a different finish. Usually the rule in makeup is that if you are using a powder foundation, then you should stick with a powder highlighter and if you're using a liquid foundation, then it is best to use a liquid or cream highlighter. Why? Because some textures just simply don't work together (i.e a powder foundation with a cream blush, you'll end up rubbing off all of your powder foundation)...but I'm all for experimenting. I say, if something works then forget the rules.

What are some of your favorite highlighters?

Love,

Lisa

Statement Rings

Rings are so pretty and they make a statement, especially these huge rings I ordered from Forever 21. My favorite out of the bunch has got to be my Filigree ring (pictured on the far right). It's gorgeous and can spruce up any outfit. Although they are pretty and fun to collect, rings can be really pricey if you're trying to start a collection of them. If you're looking for affordable but just as beautiful rings, I say shop at Forever 21. All of these ranged from around $4-7 dollars each. Believe me, I never thought that I would find quality rings at a store like Forever 21. You would also think for that price that they would be very flimsy and look very cheap, but no. The stones shine just as bright as some of the more expensive rings I got from Macy*s and Nordstrom. Just make sure not to wear them in water and you'll be okay.

Are you a fan of rings? If so, I would love to hear where you bought them!

Love,

Lisa

Elle Magazine: Mila and Justin

As I was grocery shopping the other day, this Elle magazine cover caught my attention at the checkout counter. Justin Timberlake and Mila Kuniz photograph very well together. As I continued to flip through the rest of the photoshoot by Carter Smith, I found myself so in love with their on camera chemistry. I ended up buying it for inspiration for our (KNL Photography) future photo shoots.The clothes were styled by Joe Zee and he did an amazing job dressing Mila in pieces by Chanel and Justin in Marc Jacob. Now I really want to go watch Friends with Benefits!

Have any of you guys watched Friends with Benefits? Was it good?

Love,

Lisa

Life: Summer days, Summer nights.

I wanted to make a separate post of my day at the park. (If you want to read about what I wore to the park or recommendations on what you should wear, CLICK HERE) I was so fortunate that Kevin took so many great pictures, and I wish I had room on here to post them all! I had an awesome time with him and the rest of the family. I think this year was one of the best years ever.We stayed there until the park closed and just relaxed and enjoyed everything the place had to offer.

You know, out of all of the times that I've been here, I've never looked up at the art on the swing ride. It's so beautiful. 

Kevin and I decided to get caricatures! It was so fun, and now I have a new art piece on my wall!
I kept watching the artist as she was drawing, so I'm going to try to draw one of my little brother for fun.

We spent a lot of time at the arcade/games area and won a bunch of prizes. I won that turtle for Kevin!

We also went to the photo booth. He chose the "I freaking love you" one. Haha good choice.

 Can you believe this is the same ride as the first picture up there? Everything looks so different at night!
This is an awesome picture, kudos to Kevin.

 And lastly, we spent the last 15 minutes watching the fireworks together for the first time.
It was pretty special for the two of us.

 I hope you all are enjoying these kind of  more personal life posts as much as my regular posts. I actually write these posts so that years later I can look back at them. I can only hope that I will be as happy as I was in these pictures. I guess I can only hope and pray for the best. 

I love you guys,

Lisa

Amusement Parks: My recommendations

I love amusement parks. I love the attractions, the warm weather, and seeing all of the people coming out to enjoy the day with their friends and families. What I don't love is getting sweaty, tired legs, and smeared makeup. In this post I'll show you what I wore to my recent trip to the amusement park.

#1 The Outfit
Keep your outfit light and most importantly comfortable. You don't want to be overly dressed to the amusement parks or else it'll be a huge hassle every time you decide to go on a ride. (Plus, some amusement parks are charging for cubbies now...) So keep the purse on the lighter side, wear a cotton top, and shorts or khaki pants.

Fedora: Urban Outfitters

  

Old Navy White Blouse



Forever 21 shorts and UO Belt bag



#2 The Makeup
One word: SUNSCREEN. It is so important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher when you're heading to places with scorching hot weather. My favorite sunscreen is Neutrogena's Dry Touch Sunblock. It doesn't leave your face oily/greasy like other sunscreens (i.e. Banana Boat). What I would also recommend is that you don't wear too much makeup. It will eventually sweat off no matter what because you will be in the sun all day and on top of that, you'll most likely go on a few water rides. If you must, I recommend wearing a tinted moisturizer and water proof mascara and a gel eyeliner. Products that I have shown and I would highly  recommend are: Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer, Maybelline Falsies Mascara, and MAC's Fluidline eyeliner in Blacktrack.


I hope you guys are having a great summer! And remember: Put on sunscreen! I had a blast that day and I'll be sure to talk about it in a separate post.

Love,

Lisa

Life: Sushi Date!

Today I went on a sushi date with my boyfriend. He has never tried this local sushi place C.U Sushi, so we decided to go there, since we were in the area. He's such a sweetheart, he surprised me with a bouquet of my favorite flowers. Getting to spend some time with him after a week of not seeing each other makes me really happy. After sushi, we got some ice cream and sat at the nearby park enjoying the nice weather. I'm so excited, we're going to the amusement park tomorrow, so check up on a post about that soon!

Bouquet of Lilies

...And baby roses!

Philadelphia Roll

Rainbow Roll

Ultimate Salmon Baked Roll

I put the flowers in one of my mom's vases and the smell of lilies is filling the room. I love them and I can't wait for the rest of the lilies to start blooming.

Hope you guys have an awesome weekend with your loved ones!

Love,

Lisa

The Invasion of the Feathers

Who isn't obsessed with feathers these days? I know I am! Within the last month, I've seen feather hair extensions, earrings, clips, and necklaces everywhere! I even bought these four pairs for myself in the last couple of weeks. They are extremely cute and go with most of my casual outfits.

What I love most about feather earrings is that they are light as..well, a feather hah. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my chandelier earrings (*New Post idea?), but sometimes they do get a little heavy. As for now, I will be basking in the sun with my feather earrings.

Are you guys rocking the feather trend? If so, how? 

Love, 

Lisa

Scarves!

Bored of wearing the same outfits the exact same way every time? Want to find a way to make your outfits more interesting? Easy. Put on a scarf!

Whenever I find myself getting bored with my outfits, I bring out my accessories. In this case, all of my scarves. Scarves are so versatile. There are thick knitted ones for the winter and light silky ones for the summer. A scarf can make a plain white t shirt look very chic and put together. It can turn a regular v-neck into a fashion must have. So, if you're ever in a dilemma, grab a scarf!

From L to R: Silk, Nautical, Cheetah, Bohemian, and Indian Handmade Scarves

I got a majority of these scarves from Forever 21 and small boutiques around my neighborhood.

So what are some of your favorite accessories?

Love, 

Lisa

Urban Outfitters: Belt w/ Pouch & Head wraps

Ecote Saddlebag Belt- Urban Outfitters

Bohemian Headwraps

I ended up just buying accessories that day. I've never worn headwraps before, but I loved it when I tried it on at the store. It was very bohemian, which is one of the summer trends that I currently adore. Might I also add that they pair perfectly with feather earrings. (I'll be posting a blog about feathers in the next up coming days)

Have a good day!
Love,

Lisa

My Vintage Jewelry Collection

My mom surprised me with a box after she saw me organizing my jewelry.

She gave me her jewelry that she's been collecting since 1975. I'm so happy that she trusts me with them. Now I can continue to grow my collection! 

 These were some of my favorite earrings. 

This is my favorite bracelet that she gave me. Definitely will be one of my staple pieces. It is gorgeous!

This Edwardian inspired brooche is one of my latest additions to my vintage jewelry collection. It's beautiful and I will make an effort to incorporate it into my outfits!

What are some amazing gifts that you have received from a loved one? I would love to know!

Love,

Lisa

Makeup: Not as famous, but just as good!

Makeup is great for the fact that we get so many options whether it be eyeshadows, mascaras, primers, etc. I wanted to share some of my all time favorite products that I noticed aren't as popular as others (i.e. Urban Decay's Naked palette, Nars "Orgasm" blush).

1. Maybelline The Falsies Volume Express Mascara with Hydrofuge (Waterproof). 

I always rave about this mascara because it works so well for me, it's affordable ($6-8), and you can always find it in your local drugstore. It has this unique curved brush that is able to pick up every lash and leaves an even coat. It provides me with volume and a bit of length and the waterproof formula helps it hold a curl.

2. Smashbox Masquerade Eyeshadow Palette. 

This palette has everything from pigmented matte shades to shimmer to glitter. I like the soft consistency of the matte shades ranging from neutrals to fun purple and greens. The main reason why I LOVE this palette is because of the highlighting shades. The matte white and matte light peach colors are amazing and I hope they sell it in individual pots because I'm about to hit pan on those colors. Unfortunately I don't think this is available anymore at Sephora because it was a limited edition palette, but you can probably find it on sites like Amazon and Ebay. 

3. Laura Mercier Foundation Primer (Hydrating).

Primers are a must for any foundation user. To keep your foundation from melting off or smearing use a primer! I love this primer and this is my second tube of it. I use the hydrating one because my skin tends to be dry. It has a nice light consistency, not silicone like most primers. (*Looking for an eye primer? I'm sure you have all heard of the infamous Urban Decay Primer Potion! You won't go wrong with this one.)

What are some of your less famous favorite products? 

Love, 

Lisa

My Top 3 Favorite Shades

I must admit, one of my all time obsessions are shades! I can't help but always find myself at the end of a shopping day going to the shades section trying on every pair to see which frame fits my face best. It was tough, but I narrowed down my top 3 favorites!

#1 Large Round Sunglasses

These are cute, chic, and add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. It adds an interesting touch to any simple outfit. I adore these. Surprisingly I found these on Ebay for $10 just by searching for: large round sunglasses. 

#2 Tortoise Shell Round Sunglasses

I usually wear these when I want a toned down version of the first one. They're cheetah print, but in real life they are much more subtle than it looks in this photo. I got these at Urban Outfitters.

#3 My Good Ol' Big Shades

These are my go-to shades when I'm running late. They are a perfect frame for my oval face and they shield my face from the harsh uva/uvb rays. These are perfect for the beach or any time you know you'll be out in the sun for a really long time. I got these at Forever 21 for $5.80.

So what are your favorite shades? I would love to know! 

Love, 

Lisa <3

Saved By the Bell

Cardian and shirt- Urban Outfitters

I love quirky shirts like this that remind me of my childhood. This t-shirt is awesome.

Love, 

Lisa

 

Love, Lisa.

Hey friends. If you're seeing this blog, it's probably because I personally directed you to this page through word of mouth, my facebook, lookbook, or my tumblr. I love taking pictures and I love fashion, makeup, music, etc. so I decided to revamp my old blog (from 2008!) and make it into a blog dedicated to everything I currently love and more. I hope you guys will find my blog posts helpful and fun.


Here are some things to help you navigate through

1. Subscribe: I made this blog easier for you guys by enabling you to follow me through email ( if you don't have a blogspot account), so just scroll all the way down and put in your email address and you'll get updates whenever I put up a new post. Unfortunately, I can't see who subscribes to me through email, but thank you all in advance if you decide to subscribe! Or leave me a comment on one of my posts to let me know if you subscribed :)

2. Photos: All credits to KNL Photography. This is me and my boyfriend's photography company. So all photos are either taken by me or him (Kevin). Follow us on Tumblr and Facebook! We build motivation through our supporters. 

3. Lookbook: Here is my lookbook. Fan & Hype!



Love,

Lisa