Sunday, June 29, 2014

Beauty Inspiration

 "Beauty is not flawless, it shines even through your flaws" 

Beauty is often reflected by the louboutins we strut in, the newest handbag on our shoulder and the cutest dresses we sashay through. Never truly taking a step back to think that it also exudes from our inner self.

As woman we are very emotional beings. They tend to take over our lives and dictate how we view ourselves not only in the front of the mirror but from within as well. Being the primary cause of the rift between truly loving ourselves for who we are. 

It all starts with acceptance! Look in the mirror and let yourself know that YOU LOVE YOU FOR YOU! Everyone dimple, curve, stretch mark or freckle it's all worth it because it sets you apart from the rest. 

The next step is embracing! Flaunt it and own it like a model on a catwalk. Confidence is key. Start walking with your chest held high and your chin raised, you'll soon be turning heads; because it will be noticed that nothing can tear you down. 

Smile more!!

Last but certainly not least BE FIERCE DAHLING! 

When you finally put all those steps together not only will your shine from the outside, but the inner you will be sparkling from afar. Everyone will know that you are nothing to play with! 

Fierce & Love,

Darianna Jefferson 



Fantasy Makeup



#PRIDEChicago Makeup Look

What I used:


For the colors orange, red, purple, and yellow, I used my TBH Cosmetics 88 color palette. I purchased it online for $18. For the blue, green, and translucent glitter I used my Bella Terra Cosmetics mineral eyeshadow. I purchased them at the mall for $5 each.


For my foundation I used Neutrogena in shades 120 and 10. Purchased at Walmart for $6-$7. My eyeliner is Trooper by Kat Von D. Purchased at Sephora for $12 (which both are not pictured above). For my shadow primer I used ckONE. Purchased at Ulta Beauty for $12. My blush is by Cargo in the shade Ibiza. Purchased at Ulta Beauty for $26. My bronzer is by BlackRadiance. Purchased at Walmart for $6-$7. Lastly, my beloved NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in the shade of Milk. Purchased at Ulta Beauty for $6. It was used on the inner corner of my waterline.


My lipstick was broken into three shades. The first shade is Bright Blue by L.A. Colors. I purchased it at a beauty supply for a dollar. The second shade is Lacquer-ized by Loreal Colour Riche. I purchased it at Walgreens for about $4-$5. The final shade is RiRi Woo by MAC. I purchased it online at maccosmetics.com for $15.

A closer look:


Although I am not apart of the LGBT community, I still show full support. My friends call me a Drag Queen at Heart. #FreeLove for everybody! By the way, the queens at the parade loved my Rainbow Flag Realness Hunty! They said I was serving All Shade! In the words of Mama Ru, "If you don't love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?!"


#EverybodySayLove!






Summer Summer Summer Time!!!

Ladies it's Swimsuit Time!!!!  Swimsuit shopping might seem like a painful exercise, but it's possible to find a suit that fits your body type and makes you feel and look Fabulous!! 
 First know your shape: 

Pear shape: If your hips are significantly wider than both your waist and bust, you're probably a pear.

Apple shape: If your waist is significantly wider than your hips, and equal to or nearly as wide as your bust, you might be an apple.

Hourglass shape: If your bust and hips are about the same width, but your waist is significantly smaller, you're a classic hourglass.

Straight (also known as ruler or banana shape): If you're thin all around, with no significant difference between your hips, waist and bust, you're a straight shape. 
  
Second:  Choose colors and fabrics that will highlight your best features and downplay your less-loved parts. The secret to a good swimsuit is drawing the eye to the most flattering parts of your figure; this will help you to feel more comfortable as well as looking your best. 

Lastly: Select the right cut. Here's a quick rundown of what you might want to favor/avoid:
 A one-piece will hide your waist. Choose one with shirred panels over the stomach, or in a dark, solid color.
A 1940s-style, bathing-beauty bottom that's high-waisted can also help hide a waist. Again, go with a dark color or shirring.

A tankini will highlight your waist, because it draws the eye to the section of skin that's showing. If you love your waist but not so much your hips or bust, choose this.

Boy shorts make your hips look wider, regardless of color. If you have a large bust and want the hips to match for a classic hourglass shape, choose boyshorts. However, be aware that this style can feel uncomfortable for some women, so be certain of fit before you purchase anything.

High-cut bikini bottoms make legs look longer. If you're short, or you're long in the torso, this is a good selection.
Halter tops draw attention to the bust, as do triangle tops.

Tie-front bikini tops draw the eye to the bust, as well as pulling the breasts closer to one another, effectively making them look larger. If you have small breasts and want them to look larger, this might be a good fit.

Bandeau tops will make the bust seem wider. If you're a pear shape and you want to imitate an hourglass shape, choose a bandeau top with ruffles or another busy detail.

For a large bust, look for a straight across cut at the top of your swimsuit with wide set straps to minimize your bust. Try a bikini top with an underwire and a thick chest band for extra support. A thick chest band will prevent jiggling so that the bra stays where it should be and you can't fall out.

Saturday, June 28, 2014

Health = Beauty

   Due to health and Beauty going hand and hand, I (Blogger Jazzmine) will help you divas navigate the shoe store... Not DSW, more like Finishline and FootLocker; some place where they specialize in running shoes. In order to stay as beautiful as long as possible you must exercise and eat healthy. To cover the exercise portion I'll tell you which running shoe to look for. 
       
Step 1: Figure out what type of feet you have: Flat Feet, High- arch feet or Nuetral or normal feet. 

 How would I figure this out? 
  
Neutral or Normal Feet: If you've examined your foot or your footprint and it doesn't look flat-footed (with out an arch) or high-arched, you most likely have a neutral or normal foot. Your footprint will have a noticeable curve inward, but not by more than 3/4 of an inch. 

High-arched Feet: You'll notice a high and definite arch on your foot. If you do the footprint test, your print will curve inward, making the middle part of your foot appear skinny. When you push your hand against the bottom of your foot, your arch will stay rigid.

Flat Feet: Looking at your foot, you'll know you have flat feet if you don't see an arch. The bottom of your foot, from your toes to your heel, is completely flat. If you do the footprint test, your print will look identical to the bottom of your foot. You won't see an inward curve from your big toe to your heel.

What to buy?: When buying your shoe for any foot type you'll need to look for key words such as "Flexible" and "Cushioned" in the description. It's good to have a flexible running shoe because when you run and (or) walk you'll notice where your toes meet with the rest of your foot there's a bending that takes place. If your shoe doesn't bend along with it, it'll cause a weird or painful feeling. 
       It's also good to have a cushioned shoe because it absorbs shock from the pressure of your body weight hitting the ground as you alternate feet. This is good because it saves you from knee pain and pain in your feet, this also can prevent pain in the rest of your body. 

Specific to flat feet: Look for a shoe that has "motion control" and (or) "stability" in the description. According to Motionshoelab.com: Runners with Flat feet are at the biggest risk for injury if they don’t use the proper foot wear. Depending on the severity of your flat foot you want a shoe that is designed for stability and arch support. Within a running shoe the mid-sole should help raise the arch aiding in the cushion and giving compression during the foot strike. These are often referred to as stability shoes. Most manufacturers have a line of shoes specifically designed for runners with flat feet. Here are 5 things to look for in a running  sneaker.

  1. Make sure the shoe is not overly cushioned
  2. Is it designed for stability or motion control?
  3. You want the shoe to not twist side to side
  4. When bending the shoe make sure it does not flex behind the ball of the foot/mid-sole
  5. Your heel should not moved around or slide up and down when running.
 Below are some options for great running shoes. 
 
Beauty is a full time job ladies, so let's start Now!!!! 

Sunday, June 22, 2014

The infamous Red Lip


 
Some may say that the red lip gives off a type of confidence and sexiness to a woman. But it may also be seen in a negative way if it isn't dressed to fit it and the shade for you is not chosen appropriately. 

Choose Your Lipstick:

 Tom Ford, Mac, Chanel and many more well known cosmetic houses have a selection of fabulous red lipsticks.

Different reds to match your skin tone and your outfit can make or break your overall look. Maybe different seasons bring out a different red in you.

Think about what compliments your skin tone and the type of clothes you are wearing. Cosmetic companies in department stores and individual shops will help you make those decisions and guide you to the sophisticated red you need.

 Red lipstick occasions: 

There is no doubt red lipstick can brighten up any outfit. Red does send out a message - it has the confidence to say 'look at me'. Feel as confident as the color.

But if a bold red makes you feel uncomfortable find out what works for you. 

Confidence is about believing in yourself. 

Once you start to believe in yourself you will  also want to learn what you're comfortable with - which may also give  you the confidence to wear what is right for you  and express your unique personality.

You may love wearing your red lipstick, like I do, or prefer the lighter shades. Whatever your shade, make it 'you', wear it with confidence and feel good from the inside out.

Be bold. Be beautiful. Be you. 

Fierce &I Love,

Darianna 

Saturday, June 21, 2014

Nail polish

Every girls hardest decision while in the drug store...Nail polish. An array of colors, shades and textures (yes textures). Our hands are what open the doors to our lives, so why not let them look nice at all times? 

How to decide which color to wear: Take a simple outfit like black and white. You can wear any of the craziest, brightest colors you can find. Or you can wear a simple nude nail. For an outfit with color you can wear a black nail or you can just wear a clear coat of nail polish and let your natural nail color show.  

Below are a few cheap brands you can choose from that last. Happy perfect polish shopping. 

Friday, June 20, 2014

Maxi Skirt💜💜💜

So I found a new Love in Maxi Skirts!!!!! However I been noticing the way people are wearing them.. Here's my Tips for the Maxi Skirt 
 If you're tripping up, it's too long. check how it looks in the mirror––the more streamlined styles will be the most flattering, while the flouncy Bohemian styles can add weight and don't flatter all figures.


The texture of the fabric will affect the suitability of the skirt for your figure type. Try on maxi skirts in different fabrics to find the fabric you think looks best or drapes well on you.
Just as pleats on shorter skirts don't work for all figure types, pleated maxi skirts may not suit your figure type. Don't despair, just try a different style of maxi skirt instead.
2
Match the top to the skirt style. The fit of the skirt determines the style of top you'll choose. If the style doesn't match, the overall look can be dowdy. Some suggestions include:


Looser, flowing skirts tend to look best when the top fits well, as this tones down the overall enlarging effect of a billowing skirt.
For skirts that fit tightly, looser tops make an ideal contrast.
Cropped tops look great with maxi skirts, as the skirt keeps lengthening your body even though the top stops at your waist. A cropped top with heels can help elongate a shorter figure; indeed, if you have a shorter silhouette, make sure that the top stops at your natural waistline. 
Slouchy tops can look good with a maxi skirt but check the final look in the mirror before deciding. Sometimes adding a belt will improve the final look, especially a broader belt that cinches in under the ribs or around the waist. The slouchy top look tends to be carried off best on leaner, taller bodies.
Layered tops work well for taller figures.
3
Decide whether to tuck the top in or let it sit over the skirt. There is no hard and fast rule on this––you'll need to experiment in the mirror. But here are some tips:


Don't tuck in where doing so creates an unsightly bulge or somehow disturbs the flow of the skirt.
Thin cashmere or similar style thin width sweaters can look elegant when tucked into the waistband of a maxi skirt.
Layering can allow you to tuck in the t-shirt or shirt while leaving the other layers untucked, such as a cardigan, jacket or coat. Leaving the outer layers unbuttoned can be a good look, as the top of the skirt will be easy to see.
Obviously, if the skirt is tight around the waistband, tucking in may prove uncomfortable. Instead, try layering or a cropped top.
The texture of the top and skirt do not have to match but they must be complementary.
4
Consider color. There are two options here––monochrome (all one color) or matching colors. Avoid using colors that clash, as with any clothing.


Monochrome can look very slimming and elegant, as the same color all the way down your body creates a sense of elongation. However, be careful to match the shades well or it can look slightly off color.
Don't mix patterns. A patterned skirt works best with a solid color top and vice versa. Definitely avoid mixing up spots, stripes, florals and diagonals.
5
Wear the right shoes. If you're petite, wear heels to give you the added height to cope with the skirt length and to elongate your silhouette. If you're taller, flats or heels will work with a maxi skirt, although heels are usually preferred for evening wear. Most heels will work well with maxi skirts but always check in the mirror before deciding.


Beaded sandals are appropriate for a flowing, Bohemian maxi skirt look. Espadrilles also look very casual and beach-like.
Wedge shoes look great with maxi skirts and give you added height to carry off the longer skirt.
Rugged styles can look great with many maxi skirts.
Avoid flats that are completely closed in, or loafers. These look frumpy with long skirts. Pointy toes and knee-high boots don't work either. And clogs and sneakers tend to look too chunky or dowdy.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Shade of the Week


Shocking Pink by Givenchy

This particular lipstick can be found at Sephora for $32. Yes, I paid $32 for a tube of lipstick. To be honest, I bought it because the tube was so interesting to me. But there are also dupe lipsticks you can find anywhere that are more affordable. It's a satin finish, meaning that it has a sort of glossy effect. It stays on most of the day with little refreshing.

I've been obsessed with this shade of pink ever since I dyed the back of my hair hot pink. Pink is my trademark lipstick color, and this shade in all brands has been jumping out at me this whole week. If you're looking to update your lipstick gallery, I recommend this shade. 

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Look of the day (Happy Father's Day)

Hello ladies, it's Jazz again. I'm bringing you guys my Father's Day look for today. 

Blazer: Forever 21+ collection $24.99
Tank: Ashley Stewart $5-$6
Skirt: Ashley Stewart $16
Shoes: Comfort plus by Predictions $24
Watch: Walmart $24-$30
Neckless: H&M $12.99
Black headband: Forever 21 $4

Ladies always remember: the outfit does not make the girl, the girl makes the outfit. Confidence is key to looking great in anything. ✌️❤️👗
 
Twitter: @WrittenByJazz 
Instagram: @jazz_inspired





Tuesday, June 10, 2014

The infamous Little Black Dress




A little black dres is an evening or cocktail dress, cut simply and often quite short. Fashion historians ascribe the origins of the little black dress to the 1920s designs of Coco Chanel and Jean Patou. Intended to be long-lasting, versatile, affordable, accessible to the widest market possible and in a neutral colour. Its ubiquity is such that it is often simply referred to as the "LBD".

The Little Black Dress (LBD) is one of the most versatile and stylish pieces a woman can own. It can be worn to work or out on the town, depending on how you accessorize it. Things like jewelry or shoes can make a big difference in how an LBD looks.

Different Types of Styles:

1. Create a conservative look with your LBD. For a conservative look, go for accessories that look clean and pretty, but not too bold. Pearls, small earrings, and tasteful necklaces or bracelets come to mind, as do shoes that are more conservative like black Patten leather heals or ballerinas. If you have diamonds, make them shine their best on the black background. This is a good look for work.

2. Make your LBD look trendy. For a trendier look, go for a fun shoe that has a stiletto heel, and some bigger, bolder jewelry, like a statement necklace. This is a good look for cocktail parties or dinner.

3. Put together a funky look with your LBD. To funk up your LBD, add a lot of color, like a metallic shoe, or some neon stockings. This is a good look for younger women getting ready to attend a trendy gallery opening or to make an appearance at a new club.

Ways to accessorize:

1. Wear big earrings with your LBD. Sometimes earrings are all you need, and if this is the case, pick a big and bold pair. Dangly, Hoops, or Studs can all work, as long as they make a statement. This is not the time for anything dainty, and remember to wear your hair up to make the earrings known.

2. Pair your LBD with a statement necklace. A bold necklace adds instant pizzazz to a LBD. If you want something more conservative, go for more classic colors like silver, black, or pearls. For something a little funkier, pick a necklace with chunky stones and more color.

3. Grab a clutch to go with your LBD. A clutch handbag, though small, is the most dressy or all purses, and perfect for the evening. Traditionally, etiquette dictated that women wore only clutches to evening engagements and left the straps at home. Choose a fun color or one with sequins to really jazz up your LBD.

4. Wear a larger shoulder or handbag with your LBD. One of these larger bags is perfect for everyday use, as you can just throw all your essentials in it – even your lunch. Neutral colors are great because you can wear them each day of the week without needing to transfer the contents of your purse each time you switch outfits but if you want to spruce up your ensemble, pick a handbag in a fun color like pink or red. You could also pair your bag with an accessory you love wearing with your LBD. For example, if you always wear your grandmother’s citrine brooch with your dress, find a large shoulder bag in yellow to match.

5. Wear a button-down cardigan with your LBD. This is an ideal option if you want to bring an extra layer with you in case it gets cold.

6. Add a scarf to your LBD. There are a variety of ways you can add a scarf to your LBD to dress it up as well as to add versatility to your ensemble. 

Be daring and try something new with the little black dress! You can be bold an stand out or simple and chic. 

Fierce & Love,

Darianna Jefferson 

Saturday, June 7, 2014

True Life: My Lipstick Addiction


Lipstick. Name any color, I've got it. I can't leave a store without buying one...or five. I have so many shades of pink, it's ridiculous. 

Revlon, Rimmel, Wet & Wild, NYC, NYX (my fave drugstore brand), Japonesque, Smashbox, Kat Von D, YSL, Givenchy, MAC, Too Faced, Urban Decay, and so many more. I've even ordered from the makeup companies on Instagram. (Shouts to LimeCrime). When you start buying the dollar color joints from the beauty supply, you have a problem.

So this is my testimony. I have a real life lipstick addiction. I sometimes debate for several minutes on which lipstick to wear for the day. I usually settle on a shade of pink, it's my favorite color, and can go along with most looks. Some, or most, of my looks are often put together around what lipstick I'm feeling that day.

Although my collection may be proof of my addiction, I can attest to the fact that it comes in handy. I can't tell you how many times I've had a difficult outfit and found a perfect lipstick to match. Or that I've let my sister borrow a color for that perfect night out on the town.

My lipstick collection is not just apart of my daily makeup routine, it's a lifestyle. Yes I said it, a #LIFESTYLE! Oh, I hash tagged it! But seriously, I own 50+ tubes of lipstick. But I love each and every color, shade, finish, and texture.

I wrote this article to say that being passionate about what goes on your face is okay. It's okay to have options. As a woman, you should always have multiple of everything in every color. Live your life, feel your oats, and love yourself. Be bold. Be daring. Be lush. But most of all, Be You!


Purses and more Purses.. Adventures of the BAG

Generally speaking when it comes to handbags, the opposite shape of your body type is the most flattering. When shopping, head to the dressing room, carry the bag as you normally would and check it out from all angles in the mirror. I would try to pick a bag that fits your body type if it's for everyday use such as: 
 Tall and Thin 
Choose handbags with a short, slouchy shape like the hobo. Avoid shoulder bags with a short strap as they will make you look even taller. Select handbags that are wider than they are tall. A clutch is a good choice.
Petite
Despite what you see in Hollywood, oversized bags aren't for small women. Large bags tend to overwhelm your frame. Avoid shoulder bags with a long strap as they will weigh you down, making you look even shorter.
Plus-size
Pick a large structured or boxy bag to balance out your curves. Don't carry a bag that is too small as it will make you look larger. If you love prints, steer clear of tiny patterns.
Everyone
If you are splurging on an expensive bag, choose one that you will be able to wear often. There's no need to spend $500 or more on a bag that will rarely make it out of your closet. If you are buying several inexpensive bags instead, pick one classic everyday bag in black or brown. Then, experiment with fun, funky styles and metallics for your other bags.
If you aren't sure about the different types of purses and bags, on the next page are some general guidelines to help you along the way..... 
 However sometimes the purse you should match either the outfit or the atmosphere: ex: prom I wouldn't carry a hobo bag... Try a clutch! Everyday where.. Try hobo bag... If you get what I'm saying!!!  
 I must admit the purse is really your outfits best Friend!!!! 
 Happy Purse Hunting!!! 

How to get a smokey eye (for beginners)

Things you'll need: A Black eyeliner pencil, a pencil sharpener, a brown eye shadow as well as an eye shadow brush. That's it! 

STEP ONE: Draw a normal eye line on your eye, but a bit thinker. 

STEP TWO: use your index finger and smuge the liner over your eye lid to the crease. (It's okay if it looks a little messy. And if you'd like a darker more dramatic look, add more liner then smudge again) 

STEP THREE: Take the eyeshadow brush and the brown shadow you've chosen and apply a light amount from just below your brow to the crease where you smudged the eye shadow. For best results smooth the shadow across going from the outside of your eye to the inside. 

STEP FOUR (optional): Take the extra shadow on the Bruh and dust it across your black smudge to give your smokey eye a sparkly look.