Day #26 - Summer 2pc Sewing Tutorial

Designed by You!

My favorite seasons are Spring and Summer. Not because of the weather but for the fashion both seasons boast. I love the colors and light fabrics. It's that time of year where the women whip out their sunnies, sandals and summer dresses. Los Angeles is a fashion hub and purchasing the latest and greatest is usually within a mall radius away. But then there's that double-edge sword, it's en vogue so there is a chance someone may rock your outfit at the same event you are going to. All good. I believe two people can wear the same thing and each person add their own fit and flare to it but why chance it? Do you really want to be at the summer series concert looking like a clone? The fun thing about "doing you" is doing you in a way that is unique and unparalleled. All you have to do in grab some fabric and whip out an original outfit! Picking out your fabric is the first step to designing an outfit made just for you and tailored to your body. This tutorial is a simple 2pc high waist shirt and crop top. You can use a print or solid. Whatever you choose, you will have an original outfit designed by you that no one else will have on. Right on!



2 Piece Tutorial

3 yards of stretch fabric (viscose is good to use)

 Have your sewing tools readily available & your measurements on a cheat sheet for reference. TIP: get a professional seamstress to measure you.

In my first tutorial I used a dress as a pattern (see above pic). You will measure from your shoulder to the small of your waist using that same dress.

Using an old long sleeve shirt, cut off the arms & you will always have a sleeve pattern. Cut your sleeve on the fold of your fabric. When you sew your sleeve the seam will be under your arm.

Using one of your old maxi skirts, lay on your fabric & cut 2 pieces. Sew the sides. Add the elastic waist by sewing a 1 inch hem at top, leaving an opening to feed elastic through, sew close.

Sew your hems, accessorize & go!

I admit that this all may sound fast and easy however it is some work. It's not that fast and getting the right fit and length may not be that easy. You may have to fight with your sewing machine or fabric until you get what you want out of both but the end result is having a creation made by your hands. There is no better satisfaction than wearing a "You" original. 


Happy Sewing, Peeps!

Day #25 - Mommy Makeup Make-Over

Pretty In Pinks

Last week I reunited with one of my favs, Asja Monet Beauty Artist extraordinaire. She worked on a project of mine and of course we did what came natural, played dress up...with my face. I wanted a new popping daytime look that could transcend to an evening look with little effort on my part. First, I took a trip to ULTA to freshen up my makeup bag. After losing my makeup bag that took over a couple years to build, I never truly recovered. Nowadays, my bag is pretty basic and skimpy.

My trip last week to ULTA had my head spinning in a good way. So many great brands and looks to choose from. I must say that I am not hip to all the new awesome makeup brands, trends and looks out there. I was a walking target and the saleswomen could smell the inexperience a mile away. I was 'up-sold' all kinds of ways. It was cool, it was my makeup haul day. Anywhoo, after getting a few things I high-tailed it to Asja's for a Mommy Makeup Makeover. Here is the look...

I love the glowy peachy look. My favs are pinks, golds, browns and an occasional pop in lip color. Asja gave me a dramatic daytime look perfect for a sassy day out lunching or shopping. Adding a darker eyeshadow & red lips makes for an evening look. (Cosmetics: Stila, NYX, M.A.C. & Revlon; Eyebrows by Saidya at Benefit Brow Bar)

It's In The Bag

Building your makeup bag can take time and money. So to keep it simple below is the makeup kit essential list.

Mascara: No matter what your hair color, use black mascara. It will define your eyes and make you appear more wide awake.

 

Foundation: A full face of foundation can feel heavy, so instead of applying it all over, touch up only those areas where your skin tone appears uneven.

 

Concealer: Choose a concealer that is long wearing or gives medium to full coverage in a shade that's close to your skin tone.

 

Blush: To choose the right color for a subtle look, find a shade that's similar to the inside of your lip.

 

Eye Shadow: A neutral shade acts as a base and will instantly brighten eyes. Use one with a bit of sparkle for a more festive look.

 

Lipstick: Try a moisture-rich formula so your lips don't dry out. (The inner-lip trick for choosing blush works for lipstick shades, too.)

 

Brushes: One or two all-purpose brushes, like the medium-size dome brush here, will help. But in most cases a cotton swab (or a finger) will do.

https://www.realsimple.com

Happy Beautiful You, Peeps!

Day #24 - Chick'n vs. Chicken

Chick'n vs. Chicken

The one challenge I faced when I decided to go vegan was creating meals that were healthy alternatives of my old comfort foods. I love to cook and my family loves to eat. We are big on taste, variety and hardy meals. I am the only person in the family that no longer eat animal by products therefore I still cook the meals that they enjoy. When cooking regular meals for the family, I had to train myself not to taste test and that was hard! With a few hit & misses far as seasoning was concerned, I designated my son as my official Test Taster and he loves it. He has gotten to where he can tell me to either add more seasoning or leave as is.

In the beginning I felt left out as they were eating the savory, flavorful cheesey meals and my meals were simple. I eventually researched and shopped for vegan substitutes. I started out with one product at a time to introduce my taste buds to something new. I can now say that my vegan cooking skills is pretty darn good. My family often want to eat what I am eating opposed to their regular meals. I have a few original recipes and some I've found online. Even if I do not cook myself a full meal, I can always count on my quick go-to meals. Here are a few of my tried and approved vegan soy-based products that are staples in my diet.

Smart Life
Boca
Silk
Gardien
Yves
Daiya
Tofurky
Amy's
Soy Delicious Ice Cream
Purely Decadent Ice Cream

                                     



Last night's dinner. Fried Chicken for the family & Lightlife Savory Chick'n for me.





I sauteed my chick'n in olive oil w/fresh rosemary, thyme & garlic

 Happy Health, Peeps!

Day #23 - Evolve Dance Studio: Pole Dance Class Review

Never Too Old To Pole

For my countdown to 40 I have a few fun and challenging things I want to do before my b-day. I am sure I can do them at any time in my life but if I do them within an allotted time frame, it is more like a goal to be met. One of the things on my list was to take a pole dancing class. Pole dancing has become very popular in the past few years. Studios are popping up throughout the city and women and their besties are flocking to them for girls night out and themed pole parties. I mean c'mon, every woman should seductively swing off a pole like the sensual goddess she is. Well, at least that was  what I thought before actually doing it. I went to Evolve Dance Studio in the L.A. area that offers 5 classes for $50 which is a great price.

I took only one class for the sake of having fun and scratching it off of my list. The facility is very nice, neat and clean. You will be greeted by the sweetest front office receptionist ever! She was super cordial, answered my questions and loaned me a pair of her stilettos...you know, for wardrobe purposes. The dance instructor was very helpful, gave us one-on-one guidance, very experienced and extremely nice. The music selection was great and sensual. The studio is scented with sweet smelling candles that also adds to the ambiance. The students were all personable and eager to both learn and teach. There is a total of 8 poles so there can only be 8 students per class. The good thing is that they offer a lot of classes 7 days a week.

It's A Workout More Than A Dance

I was a bit nervous at first. Okay, I was a lot of bit nervous. Amongst me where women who ranged from athletic to plus size that showed incredible amount of skill and sensuousness. There is something about moving your hips in a figure 8 while your left hand is at the top of the pole and your right is at the bottom that brings out the Moulin Rouge in you. We started out with a 10minute warm-up that felt like exercise. At first I felt dooped. I wanted to swing and slide. I was too hasty. I can honestly say it was a lot of work! You have to engage your core muscles and upper body to climb the pole and you have to use your lower body muscles to build momentum to do swings. After a few tries and help, I began to get the hang of it. I stopped over-thinking it and focused on my muscles I needed to use for certain moves. The instructor taught us a routine which culminated in a final solo dance with you an your pole.

I had a good time and a great workout. There are women who pole dance as a profession and I have a new found respect for their athleticism. It is harder than they make it look. There are bumps and a lot of bruises that goes with climbing up to the ceiling just to get pole burns on the way down. Your upper body will be challenged, abs will be crunched and hip flexors will flex, in the opposite direction. And don't forget you are doing all of this while either smiling to yourself or gazing seductively at yourself in a room full of mirrors trying not to laugh. It felt good knowing that I was the oldest one in the class but then again it didn't because I began to over compensate to show the youngins' Mama can work it out too. Honey, no. I don't foresee me going back as it seems like something one can get hooked on. I already have a gym membership. Maybe I can bring a candle to the pull-up bars at the gym and wiggle in mid-air to simulate the dance studio experience.

I think every woman should experience pole dancing. It is a proven form of exercise and a great way to connect uninhibited to your sensual side. The music, the candles, the lovely studio, the staff, the ambiance, the seductive moves will make you feel even more womanly and self-loving. I had a good time and Evolve Dance Studio was a great place to experience it at.

 http://evolvedancestudio.com/

Happy Pole, Peeps!      

Day #22 - Swimsuit Edition: 10lbs Lighter In 10mins

Summer Ready

As the Summer approaches most of us will be in the market for new cute essentials for poolside lounging. That can only mean one thing, the daunting task of shopping for a swimsuit. The shopping part is easy however, it is the finding something that fits, is stylish that compliments the figure, is the challenging part. Last weekend I stumbled over the be-all-end-all of swimsuit designs, the Miracle Swimsuit. If the name of the brand does not say it all I will explain it, it does miracles! Here is an excerpt from their website explaining their revolutionary swimsuit design that shaves 10 pounds off in 10 minutes...

"The Miraclesuit® heritage of fit, form and function begins with our unique and innovative fabric, Miratex®. Exclusively ours, this fabric delivers three times the control of ordinary swimwear fabrics, without relying on inner linings and constrictive control panels to shape and trim. The high concentration of Lycra spandex means that Miraclesuit®'s keep their shape… and yours.
We utilize the best in bra support, including our newest innovation, a one piece molded bra construction that has underwires built into a foam bra. No more bulky wire construction that pokes through after a couple of wearings. Miraclesuit® has a bra constructed specifically for you, no matter what type of support you need. Pulling it all together with a uniquely fashion forward point of view through exclusive designs and silhouettes, Miraclesuit® builds confidence. Our design team's strategic use of shirring and draping emphasizes your curves and draws the eye away from areas you would like to de-emphasize. This season we are inspired by bold graphic patterns, engineered florals, European inspired prints, new takes on animal skins and classic dots."

Basically it is like having the control and shape wear of Spanx and the Miracle Bra all roll into one! It sucks it all in and gives you a flattering figure. In my opinion, I wouldn't look any further if I were you. Starting at $140, it is a swimsuit worth investing in. Take a gander...


 Affordable Summer Essentials

http://www.miraclesuit.com
http://www.forever21.com

Forever21 Romper $13

Forever21 Aviators $5.80

Forever21 Color Block Sunnies $5.80

Forever21 Sandals $8.80

Forever21 Straw Fedora $10.80

Forever21 Denim Tote $29.90

Forever21 Tube Dress $14.80

Happy Summer, Peeps!

Day #21 - Moksha Yoga Flow

It was a great weekend. A lot was accomplished and I am pleased. I've spent the last few months preparing for this weekend and I am exhausted. I did something I always wanted to do but didn't have either the confidence or nurturing environment to do so. And the best part about it all was that I able to share each moment with my children. I am convenienced that I earned their respect as a mother who is including them on my journey. Well, I am going to keep this evening's post short. I am retiring to the warmth of my bed and arms of my mate. Be good to yourselves.

"Calm mind. Fit body. Inspired life." ~ Moksha Yoga

Day #20 - Living Your Inspired Life & Artist Spotlight

About Me

I'm at the halfway mark...20 more days until the big 4-0! Anywhoo...my anxiety about turning a milestone age was fueled by my feelings of not accomplishing some things I wanted to before turning 40. I work in a niche environment surrounded by the most creative, intelligent and driven people I've ever known. Everyone is an expert in their own right. It is a network filled with the fresh-face 20 year old to the silver-haired 60something year old. Whether you are a college grad starting out in your career or an executive at the pinnacle of your career, you will fit into the culture of the network. I started working there at 28yrs old, mid-career, and 12 years later I still believe that there are opportunities to be ceased. In the interim I am doing what I love and finding great satisfaction from it. Of course, it has it's highs and lows and takes time and money but I am happy to have something I enjoy doing. My anxiety about being at a level of success by a certain age was based on me comparing myself to others I deemed successful. I had to abandon that way of thinking, quick. That way of thinking made me depressed. Not what I want for myself.

Today was my first fashion shoot for my company. I didn't think I would be so emotional when I got to the set but of course I was. From design, to product development to day of the shoot as Creative Director, I was floored to look out to see the people whom I selected, booked and employed. It was my day and I could not have done it without the amazing group of family and friends that assisted me in pulling it off. My fiance is one of the best things that happened to me and with him comes a crew of supportive, caring and kind loved ones that is beyond comparison. I did it, WE did it!! There is more work to be done and I am doing it on my clock. I am not rushing and I am not pressed against time. I know what I can and cannot handle. That is one of the perks of getting older; being secure in your feelings, wants and needs. There is a sense of caring but not getting swallowed up by the things that do not fit into your life's plan. It was only recent that I have adopted this mentality and it appears to be working for me. I concern myself with moving forward in a direction that fit into the plans I drafted for me and my family's life. Everything else is a red balloon, pretty while passing.  

About You

One of the reasons why I decided to do this countdown blog is to share all the things that I've gathered from other people that inspires me. I have met and came into contact with some very insightful people. Everyone have an uniqueness about them, a story to tell and something to share with the world. I am in a creative pool amongst fashion designers, motivational speakers, writers, educators, artists, singers, photographers, poets, entrepreneurs, small business owners, realtor's, mothers, fathers, actors...so much love and life in everything that they do. If it were not for the urging and support from them, I would not have explored my talent as I am now doing. It was the validation from those whom I respect as experts in their fields that gave me the courage to explore. When those who have your best interest at hand say "you can do it" they are genuine in their beliefs.

It may be cliche to say chase your dreams but it is a good cliche. I just started dreaming. I have no idea where this road may lead to but what is a road not traveled? Someone has to walk it so it might as well be you. We all have a different perception and definition of success but I think we can agree that you will have to first do something in order to be successful at it. Whatever you do in life, there is some sort of meter to be measured by. Progress is benchmark but reaching a set goal. Goals can be accomplishing a simple daily task to taking on the world. It is YOUR time to do it.

On your road you would want to travel with like-minded individuals however still respecting the passerby. You will also notice that you will get where you want to go faster if the road you travel has less luggage and traffic. I am a role model to my children and I strive to be an inspiration to my peers as they are to me. Looking to see where everyone else is going and what they are doing can be a deterrent, especially if they are not moving in the direction you are heading or traveling on a different road entirely. I made a conscious decision to make my life and business, my business and if anything inspires someone as I travel onward, that would be grand. Share your inspired life with the world.

Artist Spotlight: Asja Monet of Asja Monet HMF Collection

Barely in her 20's, entrepreneur, artist and jewelry designer Asja Monet is reaching heights in the competitive world of beauty and fashion. Hailing from Los Angeles, by the age of 16 she was established as the go-to person amongst her peers for all-things-beautiful. Asja was my personal stylist and I am happy to share that I have her on board for my next project shooting tomorrow. It was a no-brainer. She ROCKS!!

Beauty Artist: Asja Monet of Asja Monet HMF Collection takes lips to another level with her Ombre Lip Collection.

Tumblr: asjamonetba.tumblr.com

Face Book: Asja Monet HMF Collection

Asja's jewelry designs are unique and ornate pieces. She experiments w/different stones, metals, textures and styles to create one-of-a-kind works of art.

Contact Asja Monet via FaceBook for make-up artistry, hairstyling & jewelry design. Also available for your on-set hair and make-up needs. 


Happy Inspired Life, Peeps!