Beauty – Happens For A Reason

Mindfully Glam!

February 10, 2018Posted in UncategorizedTagged Beauty, blog, blogger, China, Fashion, fashion blogger, feelings, happy, health, life, lifestyle, mindfully glam, new york, products, quote, relationships, reviews, spirituality, style, Things to do, thoughts, Travel, trendsLeave a comment

Hello everyone!

The time has come where I must transfer you over to my new blog, Mindfully Glam.

Mindfully Glam: a place where wellness meets glamour.

If you’re a glam girl like me, you love putting on makeup, stepping out in a pair of stilettos and wearing the latest fashion trends. You may also be passionate about exercise, meditation and incorporating healthy eating habits into your lifestyle. You’ll typically catch me at the newest hotspot in SoHo or a meditation studio in Flatiron..probably all in the same evening! If any of this sounds familiar, then you know that life is about balance, and Mindfully Glam gives you just that.

Living in New York City is a challenge in so many ways, but I realized that you don’t have to compromise who you are or the person that you want to be in order to be happy here. It took me three years to find my place and figure out how to stay grounded in a chaotic city that attempts to throw me out of alignment on a daily basis.

This lifestyle blog is all about positive thinking, gratitude, spirituality, fashion, beauty, holistic health, wellness, nutrition, and everything both mindful and glam!

Happens for a Reason will always hold a dear place in my heart. Please check out my new blog and subscribe here!

Xx Marisa

5 Ways to be Happy NOW!

August 18, 2017August 30, 2017Posted in CT Fashion Mag, FashionTagged art, Beauty, Fashion, feelings, happiness, happy, health, life, lifestyle, lifestyle blogger, love, quotes, reflections, relationships, style, summer style, thoughts, Travel2 Comments

Written for CT Fashion Mag. Article here.

How many times have you heard the phrase that life is too short to be unhappy? If you’re like me, then you’ve heard it probably one too many times. Everything in life is continuously changing. Nothing remains constant; it’s basic physics. Although my career as a scientist ended at the high school level, the most important thing I learned is that everything is constantly in motion. Simply put, one’s life can change in an instant. We all have good days and bad days, but at the end of the day, we are in control of our own happiness.

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Being human, we all get sad, stressed, irritated, upset, angry, etc. for a brief or even extended period of time. Recently, it took me almost two months to get out of one of the most creativity-blocking ‘funks’ I have gone through in my life. I felt like I was just going through the motions of life without actually living it. This experience made me thoroughly reassess what was holding me back and forced me to stop and regroup.

Over the years, I found that one of the easiest ways to be happy right now is to bring yourself back to living in the moment. We are constantly looking for the next life event or big-picture happening to take place, however, life also consists of the ordinary everyday moments that come in between these bigger occurrences. Every single moment makes up your life, so if your currently sad, angry, confused, or just feeling ‘blah,’ why not be happy in this moment, right now? So here are my tips on how to be happy NOW.

Just Breathe. The first step is simply to breathe. Inhale the good, exhale the bad. Whatever it is that is troubling or making your feel sad, just let it go with each out breath. Take five long, deep, and slow breaths like this: Inhale for four slow counts, hold your breath for four slow counts, and then exhale for four slow counts. Repeat these steps. Anytime I am stressed, I tend to hold my breath or breathe shallowly, cutting off proper circulation to the rest of my body. This is a huge no-no for trying to calm oneself down. If you can become aware of your breathing, you can start to ground yourself, begin to relax and focus on the moment. The simple, natural process of breathing is very calming and can dispel your anxiety and make you feel more relaxed and less stressed.
Take a moment to ground yourself. Even if you have to set your timer to exactly one minute, take that exact minute to recompose yourself. For me, this is closing my eyes and meditating in silence. I’ll even repeat a phrase like “you can do this, Marisa” or “you are so much stronger than you think.” Try it. I swear it works, even just for one minute.
Visualize your “happy place.” For me, I don’t have one exact “happy place” that I constantly resort back to in times of need. Many people have that one place, but I have many happy places because it doesn’t have to be limited to a physical place or time in your life when you were genuinely happy. I always think back to a joke a friend of mine once told me or simply the smile of a loved one. It’s not rocket science, just a memory that makes you feel good inside and a visual that can’t help but make you physically smile.
Step outside (unless the weather is bringing you down, of course, then just step away). Get some sunlight and reconnect with nature. I always find it so difficult to not be happy when I’m sitting or standing outside in direct sunlight. If you’re in an office or at home just take a step outside, or at the very least, step away from your desk. Go on a quick walk to recharge and to experience the serenity and beauty that is all around you. Whether you are in a big city or a small town, there is always a piece of nature that can’t be ignored or underappreciated.
Turn on your favorite song. Once you’ve brought yourself back to living in the moment, choose a song. For me, this probably entails a dancy/hip hop song from the early 2000s. Pick something that 1. Isn’t sad 2. That you can sing (or rap) aloud 3. Reminds you of a person you love or a great time in your life 4. That you can dance to or at least bop your head to. Moving your body in general can shift your mood and increase your happiness immediately as well.

No one’s life is perfect, and the unfortunate truth is that we aren’t going to be happy in every single moment of our lives. However, when we fall off the wagon and become consumed with negativity or sadness, these five life hacks certainly come in handy for reassessing our current state of mind. Just remember that you are in control of your happiness, and if you can slow down your thoughts, become present in the moment, and change your attitude from negative to positive, you can essentially become happy in any given moment.

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Photography by Stephanie Cowan theblondwiththesmile.com @stephaniecowan

Criss cross backless swing dress by SheIn!

Xx Marisa

White & Blue With a Pop of Red

July 2, 2017July 2, 2017Posted in FashionTagged 4th of July, Beauty, Fashion, fashion blogger, fashionista, holiday weekend, Holidays, lifestyle, ootd, outfit ideas, products, trends, womenLeave a comment

Hey friends! Happy 4th! Your 4th of July celebrations have probably already begun, but I thought I’d give you a quick roundup of outfit and lipstick options that you’ll need for this year’s picnics, BBQs, and of course, fireworks!

Hard to admit this as an American, but I actually don’t own anything with an American flag on it! Now that I think about it, for the last few 4th of July celebrations, I have worn blue and/or white and incorporated a red lip to complete my red, white, and blue look. I’ll actually be doing the same thing this year because I’m obsessed with a red lip!

Here is a sneak peek of one of my outfits I have planned for the weekend: off the shoulder blue top by Romwe and white pants by Joe’s Jeans. I absolutely love the detail on this top!

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If you also love a red lip and don’t have your 4th outfit planned yet, I have some blue & white ootd suggestions for you incorporating summer’s most stylish trends: off the shoulder, blue & white stripes, two piece outfits, sun dresses with a top ruffle, etc., all from Romwe!

Ok! So now that you’ve got your outfit down, it’s time for my favorite part…the red lip! Here are some of my favorite new matte reds I have recently tried out:

Lancôme’s Matte Shaker in “Kiss Me Cherie”

I love this one because it’s super bright and long lasting. It’s my new favorite lipstick of the season, so I’ll actually be wearing this one for the 4th of July rooftop party I’m going to! 🙂

2. Estée Lauder’s Pure Color Envy Matte Sculpting Lipstick

This lipstick by Estée Lauder is very smooth and gives you an elegant look. For a red lip, I prefer a lip stain because I hate reapplying, but this lipstick is fabulous and I strongly suggest using this color as the red in your red, white and blue look!

3. Kylie Lip Kit in “22”

Of course I can’t leave out a Kyle Lip Kit on this list! It look me a long time to get my hands on “22,” but the wait was so worth it. I love her lip kits because they are long lasting. I feel like I rarely have to reapply throughout the night. These sought-after kits will always be my go-to lipsticks!

There you have it! I hope you enjoyed my not-so-basic guide to your 4th of July outfit. Now it’s time for BBQ and fireworks! Enjoy 🙂

Xx Marisa

Fiesta Forever

May 18, 2017May 18, 2017Posted in FashionTagged Beauty, blog, Fashion, feelings, life, lifestyle, love, new york, photography, products, quote, reflections, soho, spirituality, style, thoughts, trendsLeave a comment

A year ago I started a gratitude journal where I write down things I am grateful for each day. I decided to start it because I randomly read that in 21 days, you can rewire your brain by writing down just 3 things that you are grateful for each day. Initially, this seemed like an odd concept and too simple of an exercise, however, at the time, I was committed to working on myself and changing my thought processes, and I wanted to do everything I could to accomplish my goal of doing so. Challenge accepted.

With that being said, I found a tiny notebook and began listing three things that I was grateful for each day. The list started out as basic as “1. Mom 2. Food 3. A home, to live in” but gradually developed into so much more. I remember reaching the 21-day mark and thinking “wow, this really does work.”

The more grateful I became, the more humble I became, and in turn, I actually began to attract more into my life. Listing three things a day turned into listing five or seven—sometimes even fifteen. I noticed myself starting to say “thank you” multiple times a day under my breath, even for the smallest of things like good weather or being on time for work despite major train delays. I even began to be thankful for the “bad” because I began to view bad experiences or challenges as lessons and opportunities to grow.

Every morning I used this exercise to ground myself, and I still do it to this day. My life has become much more positive and peaceful ever since. This simple exercise has helped me to accept the person I am and be thankful for the life I have been given, two concepts that were foreign to me before being committed to doing this simple, yet life changing exercise.

***

Fiesta anyone? This adorable polka dot dress is from SheIn! My inspiration for this shoot was Spanish Doll/Barcelona Babe..I think I’m just dreaming about going to Spain to be honest! The dress is very pretty and feminine and the polka dots give it a fun, flirty flair. I love that this dress is off-the-shoulder, one of the hottest trends this Summer. The dress also has two rows of ruffles at the bottom, making it super chic and sophisticated! I paired this stylish number with a black choker and strappy black sandals to keep with the Latin vibe. It’s the perfect dress to wear to your next summer soiree, celebration or cocktail party! You will definitely get compliments in this dress, and it’s super comfortable and fun to wear!

SheIn is one of my favorite places to shop! If you’re looking for fashionable clothing or the latest styles and trends, SheIn is the place to go! All of their clothes are so chic and on trend. Not to mention, they are outrageously affordable!

Xx Marisa

All photography is by Josh Lobel Photography (@jlobelphoto) and shot in front of La Esquina on Kenmare St. in SoHo.

Holding Back

May 8, 2017May 8, 2017Posted in Fashion, TravelTagged Aruba, beach, Beauty, feelings, life, lifestyle, photography, pool, quote, quotes, reflections, relationships, spirituality, style, swim, swimwear, thoughts, Travel, womenLeave a comment

So, if you look back on my previous posts, you’ll come across one titled “Beautiful Vulnerability.” It was my first post that had more ‘meaningful’ content, so to speak, or at least gives you a glimpse into my heart and mind, reflecting who I am as a person.

A couple of months ago, I was chatting with a friend. We were talking about relationships, and he flat out told me that I’m too guarded. I could see why he felt that way. He’s someone who has been very patient in taking the time to get to know me over the past year and a half. He told me that my blog was a glimpse into the person I am deep down, but my writing just scratches the surface.

Although (still) slightly offended, the saddest part was, I couldn’t even really defend myself because I knew it was true. As someone chisels away at the first layer of a pretty thick wall I’ve built over several years, I’m replenishing the cement on the other end simultaneously.

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I’m at a point in my life now where the walls that (I thought) used to protect me are now only holding me back. I always say I’m an open book if someone asks the right questions, but what if they’re not asking the tough questions? When do I have to show up and be even more vulnerable in order to open up? When is it my turn to step it up and self-disclose first?

I’m not saying that I never initiate these deeper conversations; I’m just saying that it makes me uncomfortable, and I’d rather the other person initiate them. I’m sure I’ve lost a handful of people in my life because I wasn’t ready to fully open up and be vulnerable. Not everyone is going to stick it out. To play Devil’s advocate, I’ve even ended a relationship because I felt frustrated (and bored, honestly). I felt that it wasn’t meaningful and not on the deeper emotional and intellectual level that I desired it to be on. I needed something more, but to be fair, my fear, which held me back from initiating those deeper conversations, strongly came into play.

I shouldn’t have a fear of getting close to someone, but it’s there. Not for everyone, just for people who don’t self-disclose first. Maybe it’s time for me to make someone else feel comfortable and initially reveal myself to them. If anything, getting close to someone new is a rewarding and beautiful experience that I should look forward to, not be afraid of.

***
All of these beautiful photos were taken in Aruba!

The swimsuit is by Asos 🙂

Xx Marisa

HASK Exotic Hair Oils to the Rescue

April 28, 2017April 28, 2017Posted in Beauty, UncategorizedTagged Beauty, body, conditioner, hair, hair products, HASK, health, lifestyle, products, reviews, shampoo, trends, womenLeave a comment

Hi friends! HASK recently launched three new and exciting Exotic Oil Collections, and I had the opportunity to try their new Orchid & White Truffle Collection. I love HASK products because they are made right here in the USA and they do not test any of their products on animals, which is really important to me. Their products are also safe on color-treated hair and all hair types and textures, whether straight, curly, wavy, long or short.

Living in the Northeast, the winter months are very drying to my hair, which makes it look dull and lifeless. Lately, my hair also looks overworked and damaged from overusing my curling and flat irons. Because I have been overworking my hair, I knew these products would be perfect for me! The HASK three-piece set includes shampoo, conditioner, and a deep-conditioner that are moisture-packed and designed to instantly rehydrate your hair and leave it looking nourished and revitalized.

HASK uses only the finest ingredients in their formulas. With the orchid extract sourced from Belgium, and white truffle from the South of France, this set works to strengthen the proteins and to re-balance and restore your dry, overworked hair. HASK’s collections are packed with replenishing nutrients and concentrated amino acids to restore your hair to its natural beauty. The end result is lush, shiny and healthy-looking hair! Not to mention, these products smell amazing!

I used the shampoo and conditioner as I normally would #LatherRinseRepeat. Post shower, I tried out the moisture rich deep conditioner. As directed, I applied a generous amount of the conditioner on my clean, wet hair, and then I massaged it into my hair, focusing on the damaged areas (specifically my dry split ends). I left it in for 10 minutes and then rinsed it out. After letting my hair air dry, I could see and feel a huge difference in the texture of my hair. I couldn’t believe how smooth and radiant my hair looked. My hair felt so healthy after this three-part treatment! It was super shiny and I felt like I had a hair treatment at a salon!

I strongly recommend using these products for your dry, dull hair! You will be happy with the results and your hair will thank you for it! HASK also makes a Coconut Milk & Organic Honey collection for curly hair as well as a Blue Chamomile & Argan Oil collection for blondes! Click here to learn more about these products!

Thank you for the sponsorship, HASK!

Xx Marisa

Triple Microdermabrasion by Exuviance

April 20, 2017April 24, 2017Posted in BeautyTagged Beauty, health, lifestyle, products, reviews, skin, skincareLeave a comment

Hi friends! I recently had the opportunity to try the Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish by Exuviance. I have been desperately in need of an exfoliator, and I was so happy to get my hands on this product, review it for free, and share my experience with you all!

First off, I have extremely sensitive skin. Fun fact: I’m allergic to all perfumes and products that contain perfume, including all face and body products, laundry detergents, shampoos, conditioners, etc. I’ve been living in this hypoallergenic bubble for some time now, but it still creates challenges on a day-to-day basis. My skin is also very sensitive to touch; I have to be extremely gentle washing or putting any product on my face, and I am also sensitive to certain foods (i.e. anything with dairy) that tend to make me break out if I eat too much of them.

So, when trying new products, I have to be very, very careful for a myriad of reasons. I have read numerous articles about the benefits of exfoliation, and I have been told by estheticians that I need to exfoliate 1-2x per week in order to get rid of dead skin cells and rejuvenate my skin.

I came across this opportunity to review the Triple Microdermabrasion product for free, and I knew I had to take advantage of it! I am a huge fan of Microdermabrasion facials. I have gotten a series of these facials done in the past, and they are super helpful for deeply cleansing your pores and evening out discoloration and scaring. The microderm facial takes off a layer of your skin, leaving it feeling smooth, soft, and rejuvenated. It allows the skin to heal from damage, which is why it is great for acne scars, age spots, sun damage, and stretch marks. A microdermabrasion facial at a dermatologist or spa is pricey and if you’re like me, it’s not something that I can afford to do on a consistent basis.

For that reason, I was thrilled to test the Triple Microdermabrasion by Exuviance product. The exfoliating treatment in this face polish clarifies and refines the texture of your skin immediately. This dermatologist developed, anti-aging solution offers a triple action approach to skin renewal in one, powerful treatment. With just one application of this intense exfoliating treatment, your skin will begin to instantly resurface.

This product contains a unique blend of physical, chemical, and enzyme rejuvinators. The professional grade crystals used by dermatologists smooth the skin while the Papaya Enzyme and Glycolic Acid help dissolve impurities and decongest pores. It loosens dead skin cells and dull and dry patches. The skin cells begin to renew themselves, leaving your skin with a polished glow and softness.

A couple of nights ago, I tried this product with my mom. Directions say to apply a thin, even layer to a clean, wet face. Lightly massage in a circular motion for 30 seconds, avoiding the eyes, lips, and mucus membranes. Definitely do not scrub! Scrubbing is always bad for the face. Leave on to 1 -2 minutes, 1 minute if your skin is sensitive. Gently rinse thoroughly and pat your face dry. You should follow with a moisturizer and your skin will immediately soak in the nourishment.

The product felt very lightweight as we applied it to our faces and neck area. I was expecting more texture in the serum, considering Microdermabrasion incorporates sand-like and/or small beads in order to exfoliate one’s skin. The beads were not very large, so I knew it wouldn’t damage my skin in any way. It smelled a bit fruity and felt refreshing—must be the papaya, and was not too gritty.

We gently applied the product and massaged our skin in a circular motion for about 30 seconds as directed. We both have sensitive skin, so our plan was to only leave it on for a minute or so. After about 30 seconds, we both felt a tingly sensation and decided to wash it off. We could immediately feel how smooth our skin was to the touch! We both commented on how clean and silky our skin felt! This product is very gentle and we did not experience any redness or blotchiness. Just smooth, healthy-looking skin!

Now, two days after use, our skin still feels soft and smooth. I think I found a product that will fit perfectly in my regimen! With consistent exfoliation, once or twice a week, your skin will be clearer, brighter with a reduced appearance of pores and dark spots. Regular use helps increase the performance of your cosmetic treatment products as well since exfoliated skin quickly nourishes and soaks in all of the benefits from your moisturizers and serums. Triple Microdermabrasion by Exuviance is a must have product to keep your skin looking and feeling clear, smooth and glowing! Don’t hesitate! Add this wonderful product to your skin regimen today and experience radiant, healthy skin!

This best seller retails at $72! Click here to purchase yours 🙂

Xx Marisa

Vamos a la Playa

April 12, 2017April 13, 2017Posted in Fashion, TravelTagged Aruba, beach, Beauty, Fashion, fashionista, feelings, life, lifestyle, love, model, modeling, photography, reflections, spirituality, style, the universe, thoughts, Travel, womenLeave a comment

You can attract anything into your life. I know I write (and think) about this concept a lot, but sometimes, even when the smallest of things happen, it’s still shocking to me as to how I attract these things into my life.

For example, I really wanted to do a photo shoot on a beach. Next thing I know, I’m booking my flight to Aruba (although for pleasure, not work), but the opportunity to do a small impromptu shoot in this gorgeous red dress from AMI Clubwear presented itself.

The Universe is literally like a magazine, and you can just pick and choose what you want. Whether it’s positive or negative, you receive what you think about most. Recently, an opportunity presented itself to me regarding something I had been wanting to try for the past year or so. Only when I became completely confident in what I wanted and very clear about it did it present itself. Smaller opportunities began to pop up, and I began to act on these. With this momentum, I am now in a place where I an receiving exactly what I want.

This jaw-dropping red, elegant maxi dress is from AMIClubwear. Red hot, baby! Red is one of my favorite colors, and I feel like I’m constantly wearing it (or black, considering I’m a New Yorker). This dress is absolutely stunning and perfect for a special event or night out on the town. It’s made of chiffon, so it’s super light-weight and calls for the perfect photo op with any windy Marilyn Monroe moment. I love maxi dresses because you can easily transition from day to night with the right shoes and accessories.

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If I wasn’t on the beach/in the water taking pictures in this gorgeous dress, I’d pair it with these leopard print heels pictured below. I’m typically not a huge fan of prints, but I am 100% in love with these. Sometimes a pop of print is exactly what an outfit needs. Golden or clear heels are also a big trend you’ll be seeing in the upcoming months. Not to mention, they are extremely comfortable!

Thank you for the collaboration AMIClubwear! This brand is super fashionable, chic, and outrageously affordable. It has everything you’re looking for and more. If you want to stand out this season, look to AMIClubwear for the next addition to your wardrobe. You will not be disappointed! You can shop here!

Xx Marisa

All For Color with a Pop of Pink

April 7, 2017April 9, 2017Posted in Fashion, TravelTagged Aruba, beach, Beauty, Fashion, fashionista, flamingos, island, life, lifestyle, photography, products, style, swim, swimwear, Travel, trends, womenLeave a comment

Hi friends! Long time no write–I’ve been so busy! As many of you probably know I took a trip to Aruba (travel blog post to come)! Talk about paradise! This 19-mile island just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela is a beach lovers’ delight. Lined with stunning beaches, white sand and clear blue water, I found my piece of tranquility far from the rat race of the City. I am grateful for my time in Aruba. It was truly an enjoyable and relaxing experience. My days were filled with sight-seeing adventures, delicious cuisine, and R&R on the miles of tranquil and picturesque beaches. It was my first time to the island, and needless to say, I’m definitely going back!

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While in Aruba, I had the opportunity to visit Renaissance Island, a private island exclusive to Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino guests. The hotel sells a limited number of day passes to non-Renaissance guests (which aren’t necessarily guaranteed). In order to guarantee a day pass as a guest of Renaissance Island, you need to book a spa treatment at their Spa Cove. I was lucky to secure a pass and book an outdoor massage which was set at the end of a private walkway with an expansive view of the ocean. Talk about relaxing! What are you waiting for?–treat yourself, you’re on an island after all!

The main attraction on the island are the flamingos! Yes, flamingos! There are only about eight or so of them, but you can get insanely close and even feed them! How cool, right?! I had such a fun time taking photos and feeding them. And don’t worry, they don’t bite..much 😉

This little island is a slice of heaven. Amazing food, delicious tropical drinks, magnificently clear water, flamingos, iguanas, spa treatments–they have everything you need, and you can spend the whole day there! I’ll be writing more about my further adventures as well as other attractions and my experience in general in my Aruba travel post.

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My adorable swimsuit and hot pink cover up are from All For Color! This is the cutest online boutique that has everything you need for your next island vacation or spring break getaway. The brand incorporates so many bright, fun, and energetic colors in their clothing and accessories. The bikini I am wearing is super adorable and can be worn off the shoulder. The unique clothing and swimsuits from All for Color are sure to turn heads and are a must have for the upcoming summer months! And there are so many fun patterns and designs to choose from. Life is too short, so enjoy it in color! I love All for Color because they have fun, unusual, affordable clothing that appeals to women of all ages. Shop my bikini here and kimono here!

* * * GIVEAWAY * * *

With sunny days quickly approaching, I am excited to announce a $200 Beachin’ Wardrobe Giveaway in collaboration with All For Color! (April 10-17, 2017)

Interested?! Sign up here! The contest starts tomorrow (Monday, April 10,2017). You will receive additional entries for visiting and following each involved blogger on IG. You may also earn extra entries for referring friends to the giveaway. One winner will be chosen at random for entries. If chosen, you have 5 days to claim your $200 e-gift card or a new winner will be picked.

Please Note: This contest is in no way sponsored, administered or endorsed by Instagram. Inc or any of the companies in the photo. By entering, entrants confirm they are 18+ years of age, release Instagram of responsibility, and agree to Instagram’s term of use. No purchase necessary. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Xx Marisa

Spring Has Sprung

March 20, 2017March 20, 2017Posted in FashionTagged Beauty, culture, Fashion, fashionista, feelings, health, life, lifestyle, love, photography, quotes, reflections, relationships, spirituality, spring, thoughts, womenLeave a comment

Spring officially begins on today, March 20th..although it’s hard to believe considering we had one of our biggest snow storms of the season just last week!

I love Spring because it is a time of rebirth and regrowth. The dark, barren months are finally over. Flowers begin to bloom, leaves grow, animals appear, and the sun feels like it begins to shine brighter. For those who aren’t huge fans of winter (myself included), hope feels like it’s been restored in so many ways with this new, refreshing Spring spirit.

I absolutely love this beautiful season. During these months, I find myself reminiscing and looking back on the past, especially the past four (more or less) dark, winter months. How have I spent the beginning of the year? Where am I in terms of my personal goals? How have I changed in the past few months? Did I keep any of my resolutions? More importantly, how have I changed in the past year? Am I comfortable or am I challenging myself? I have always found this season to be a time of reevaluation and regrouping, and I think these are important questions to ask yourself in order to be true to yourself.

It’s always necessary to do a little spring-cleaning to declutter our lives. For me, an organized space is equivalent to an organized mind. Anytime my room is a mess, I’m typically frantic and scatterbrained. My room is a direct reflection of my mind—it’s actually pretty funny. Now is the perfect time to give your home a deep spring-cleaning and start fresh. Get rid of things you don’t need or maybe reorganize or rearrange your room. Change does the mind good.

I always feel like I get on a health kick around this time (and no not just for a hot summer bod), mainly to clean out all of the toxins from my body. You can do this by going on a healthy, whole food (no processed foods or refined sugar) detox or cleanse to get rid of all the toxins in your body that build up over time from processed or ‘bad’ foods, alcohol, products, etc.

You may even want to cleanse some habits or people out of your life that just aren’t working out for you anymore. Trying to quit smoking? Do it! Holding on to a relationship that just isn’t working out? Why?! Sometimes its necessary to declutter from all areas of our lives.

Never underestimate the act of letting go. Releasing whatever you’re holding on to can be so powerful and do your mind wonders.

There are so many opportunities to start over at the start of a new season. Just as new flowers blossom, you can as well. Spring can be another chance at your New Year’s resolutions–make that small change, add a new healthy habit to your life, begin to work out more, learn about something new, and above all, learn about yourself. The possibilities are truly endless, and you can constantly reinvent yourself anytime you feel inspired, not just during this Spring season.

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My red bomber jacket, pink fluffy heels, and over-the-knee black denim boots are all from AMIClubwear.

These pink faux suede strappy heels give just the right pop of pink to any outfit, and instantly give you a long, leggy look. A trendy addition to your wardrobe, these shoes pair well with any Spring ensemble, and make you feel super chic and glamorous. These heels will instantly escalate any outfit from ho hum to fabulous in a New York second! Whenever I wear them, I feel like I’m in Clueless or Legally Blonde. They are the perfect fun & stylish heel for Spring. Sure to turn heads and have your friends asking, “where can I get mine?”

Last Spring I bought my first bomber jacket (wasn’t sure if I could pull it off), but I’m now obsessed with this look! I was on a mission to find a red one this season, and I found this beautiful red wine color on AMIClubwear. I love the rich, deep red color that is sure to give you a regal vibe. The jacket is pretty lightweight, so do wear something warm underneath. As the weather gets a little warmer, you can wear a cute t-shirt or tank with it to change it up. The jacket also looks great with your favorite jeans or black on black, and it will make any outfit stand out. If you’re like me, I always feel cold in restaurants or other venues, so this little bomber jacket will be my constant companion as the weather transitions from Spring to Summer, keeping me comfortable and looking absolutely chic and fabulous!

Denim will never go out of style, and it’s constantly being reinvented. Thigh-high denim boots (yes, you heard correctly!) are going to be all the rage this season. These stylish boots are to die for! I’m wearing them in black here, but you’ll also see them in all shades of denim washes as well. These open-toe denim boots are comfortable and easy to slip on and off. They will compliment any outfit and will be a staple in your Spring wardrobe. For the perfect edgy look, pair these boots with your favorite dress or skirt for day or night. Stepping out in these boots will have all eyes on you this season!