June 2015 - Sensible Stylista

Berricle Jewelry

This post is ALL about Berricle, a jewelry brand that opened in 2006.  They originally called themselves "New Outlet." They changed their name to Berricle in 2011 - after their love for berries (!!!) Cute right?  Anywho, Berricle's all about quality jewelry at sensible prices. I mean, their mission is "affordable elegance" after all!

They sell EVERYTHING on their site: engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, brooches. You name it, they have it!  They have 3,000+ different jewelry designs and never use anything other than at least AAA grade stones.
They also offer a 30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee -- if you don't like your jewelry. you can get a full refund! If you want amazing sterling silver, gold, or Cubic Zirconia jewelry, make sure to check them out!

What do you guys think of Berricle? Let us know if you buy any of their pieces!

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The Printed Tunic

I'm stoked to partner up with Oasap today on Sensible Stylista.  I wore this outfit in NYC during my trip but totally forgot to take photos soooo here you go *grins* This fab printed tunic is available HERE online.  The print's super cute, and the piece is beyond comfy!  Here's the 411:

Material: polyester
Quality comparable to: Charlotte Russe/H&M
Vibe: boho chic
Perfect for: everyday 
Available in: several different colors
I'm wearing: size small - fits true to size
My cardi's from Rollacoster Clothing.  Unfortunately they no longer carry this cardigan, but they have other fab options available HERE.  I especially like this velvet version HERE - super cute and mad affordable.  It's only $12.99.  Also, make sure you guys enter SUMMER at checkout to get an additional 20% off + a free gift.  Def. a sweet deal!  I've been obsessed with light outerwear as of late!  I'm a big fan of wearing 'em with short skirts & high-waisted shorts.  
Let's move onto my shoes!  These sandals are old, so I can't link you guys *sad face* I picked a bunch of different styles for you guys though - hopefully my BAMF widget will make y'all happy...
A shot of my tunic sans cardi!  
Tunic:  c/o Oasap ($23)
Cardigan:  c/o Rollacoster Clothing
Necklace:  Vogue'M
Shoes:  c/o Amiclubwear
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June Workout Playlist: EDM

Sorry guys, I know I haven't been very consistent with these playlists, but I promise to crank them out from here on out!  I didn't realize I could embed these Spotify widgets - they're aesthetically pleasing, AND y'all can listen to my picks.  Anywho, I'm currently SUPER out of shape so I've been listening to lots of EDM, not that I need an excuse to since I absolutely love the genre.  I know I'm a classical pianist, but hey, it pumps me up and keeps me going!  I'm tellin' ya, I can barely run three miles at the moment *hangs head in shame*  Whatevs, I'm striving for progress not perfection.  I need to find someone in the DMV area that's lookin' to train for a half marathon! 

Currently playing on my pod-pod...

How are you guys staying in shape - running, DVDs, martial arts? Comment below with your fave form of exercise!
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Ash & Rose

I'm SUPER excited to partner up with Ash & Rose today on SS.  This incredible boutique is perfect for women who love all things romantic, whimsical, pretty and practical.  They're all about sustainability, fair labor, and empowering women.  
Their entire collection is made with the planet in mind through the use of organic and recycled materials, resource-conscious manufacturing practices, and minimal packaging.  You'll always know where and how their products are made - just click the "designer bio" tab.  Your purchase will NEVER support forced or child labor, and they offer a wide array of made-in-USA and fair trade artisan goods.
This gorgeous swing dress is pricy but worth EVERY penny.  The chic tie-dyed pattern is effortlessly stylish.  The mid-weigh hemp fabric drapes beautifully, and it flatters ALL body types.  Here's the 411:

Material: 92% hemp, 8% spandex
Made: by ecoSkin in the USA
Vibe: effortlessly chic and girly
Also available: in black
I'm wearing: a size xs
Comfort level: 10/10
Quality comparable to: high-end Banana Republic/Ann Taylor
Perfect for: summer days and nights
I can't recommend this piece enough!  This dress is absolutely gorg, and it's ridiculously versatile. Here are some pairings for you guys:

1.  BEACH - wear this as a stylish cover-up!  Throw on a straw hat to sun safely.
2.  RUNNING ERRANDS - slip on flat gladiator sandals (white or neutral) for maximum comfort.
3.  DINNER DATE (like my OOTD) - style it with a thin cardi and heels/wedges for a sophisticated look.

Alright, imma stop there because I could go on and on, and I don't want to bore you guys.  FYI, my cardi's from Almost Famous, my new fave brand.  I'm lovin' this chic knit!  I can tell that I'm gonna get a ton of wear out of this especially since it'll transition beautifully into the Fall. Look at me being all sensible, already thinking about cold weather.  I can't help it!  When I look at a piece, my mind immediately thinks of the many different ways/uses of it! "How can I wear this? What does this go with? Can this be worn during different seasons?" Ha.  I'm sure you guys know how it is!
Anywho, let's take a look at my accessories.  I seriously heart my new Freyrs sunnies.  They're def. my fave sunglass store - affordable, crazy stylish, and high quality!   They seriously never disappoint.    If you're looking for hot new shades, I recommend browsing their collection STAT.
 Dress:  c/o Ash & Rose
Cardigan:  c/o Almost Famous
Necklace:  Vogue'M
Sunnies:  c/o Freyrs
Shoes:  Deb - old
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Beauty Trends: The Lip Edition

Big lips are all the rage lately - I'm sure you guys have seen the "Kylie Jenner Challenge".  Some people have been taking it a bit too far, but the trend's still real.  If you want to make sure your lips look on point this summer, here are the top trends you should know about:

1. Overdrawn Lips


Women have been using lip liner to overdraw their lips for decades because it creates the illusion of bigger lips.  Lately, this technique has really taken off. The idea is simple: you use a lip liner and draw directly onto your skin as opposed to tracing your lips.

The best way to do this is to use a well-sharpened pencil and start the lining at your cupid's bow. Draw the little semicircle a tiny bit above your natural cupid's bow, then follow those lines down the sides of your lips. Make sure the line you draw meets the natural end of your lip. If you overdraw the corners of your mouth it will look completely unnatural! 



2. Contoured Lips

Contouring has been huge lately -- another technique popularized by the Kardashians. However,  a lot of people overlook the contouring of one's lips. Just like the rest of the face, the lips have shadows and highlights that can be intensified with makeup.  To do this, you want to take a darker shade and outline where the shadows are on your lips and take a lighter shade and highlight where the light naturally hits your lips. 
Contouring is different for everyone because highlights and shadows vary on each individual person. The main place you want to contour is underneath your lips -- applying a darker shade right under your bottom lip will make it appear much bigger. For highlighting you should do the opposite.  Apply a lighter shade in your cupid's bow. 
There are other tricks you can do as well, like putting a dark shade down the center of your bottom lip to make it appear thicker - that depends on the shape of your lips though. I recommend taking a bright light and shining it on your lips to help you locate and define where your contours are!

3. Matte Lips


Glossy lips used to be all the rage -- in the 2000's no handbag was complete without at least 3 lip glosses. Now it's all about matte lips!
Every brand, from high end to low end, has about a million different matte lipsticks -- my personal favorite being NYX Cosmetic's awesome collection. Unfortunately, we all probably still have that favorite glossy lip color. Luckily, turning any glossy shade into a matte color is easy! All you need to do is take a loose setting powder and lightly pack it onto your lips. You have to make sure the powder is really finely milled or else you'll get chunks. Also, make sure you don't put too much powder on or it'll make the lipstick/gloss way too thick!

4. Liquid Lipstick


The lipstick bullet has been the classic way to apply for centuries, but tons of brands are starting to develop liquid lipstick.  It looks and applies like lip gloss, but dries like lipstick. 
This product is really awesome because it has the benefit of lipgloss application: super easy to apply and work with. Most liquid lipstick is also matte, following the previous lipstick trend discussed above. The only issue I've had is that it tends to settle into your lips' creases pretty easily. If you're planning on wearing a liquid lipstick out, make sure you bring it to reapply!


What do you guys think of these lip trends? Are you going to try any of them? If you do make sure to snap a pic to post on Instagram and tag #sensiblestylista so we can check them out.  And make sure you check back soon to see the hottest trends for your brows!


Written by Zoe Luiz
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Celeb Style For Less: Gigi Hadid

Photo credit - TeenVogue.com

Without a doubt, Gigi Hadid always looks gorgeous.  This classic leather look is no exception. She wore this gorgeous ensemble back in 2014, but the classic black and white outfit has stood the test of time. If you love this outfit as much as I do, make sure to keep reading! I'll show you how to rock it without blowing your whole bank account.

Jacket: Gilt || Top: Topshop || Pants: H&M || Shoes: Warehouse || Bag: Asos

Obviously, Gigi's outfit is centered around her shoes - they pop out and elevate her outfit from a potentially boring office look to a fun night-time ensemble! I found these cool leopard booties from Warehouse for $71, but places like DSW, Nordstrom, and even Frugal Fannies always have fab animal print heels available.  I assume that Gigi's wearing real leather, but not all of us want to splurge on it.  I personally don't mind wearing faux-leather, even if it's missing that signature scent many of us love.  For an inexpensive remake of this outfit, purchase this jacket from Gilt - it was reduced from $99 to $39! Also, these pants are another steal (available at H&M).  Faux-leather pants can get surprisingly expensive- these are only $19, and they're super cute!

To pull this look together, Gigi broke up the black jacket and pants with a simple white tank. Everyone probably already has their own favorite white-tank, but if you're interested, Topshop sells a cute version for only $10.  Let's move onto her black bag. If I were to wear this outfit I'd be tempted to carry a colorful bag, but Gigi definitely made the right move by keeping it all black to showcase her leopard shoes. This little black bag can be purchased from Asos for $20. 

What do you guys think of this outfit? Would you wear any of these pieces? Also, let us know who you want to see in the next Celeb Style For Less!

Written by Zoe Luiz
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Almost Famous

Featuring Almost Famous again on SS today because I'm obsessed with their clothing.  Can you blame me though?  This dress is so on point.  I can't get over how gorgeous it is!  I'm def. channeling my inner goddess wearing this - feelin' kinda like a Korean Aphrodite, HA.
I kept things mad simple today.  No accessories today - just my beautiful dress + BAMF gladiators. The design of the dress speaks volumes: the asymmetrical cut + print + front ruffling = so much winning.
Unfortunately, I don't have a dress link for you guys *sad face*  I picked a bunch of other gorgeous pieces for you guys though (different price points).  Where do you guys like shopping for summer dresses?
Oh, and i just had to share this shot with you guys!  My puppy absolutely loves shooting pics with me.  I tell her to come take a photo with me and she RUNS over, ha!  I swear to god.  If you guys want to follow Daisy's adventure, check out her instagram account HERE.
Shoes:  c/o Amiclubwear
Dress:  c/o Almost Famous

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Sponsor Spotlight: Jord Wood Watches

In Swedish, "Jord" means "earth, soil, land." This reflects Jord's goal in creating watches that are inspired both by nature and modern design. Their watches are created entirely from wood so they're both functional AND stylish. Their slogan is, "telling more than time..." because their watches represent simple yet efficient individuals who appreciate contemporary aesthetics.
Jord sent me the Ely Maple watch to review, and I couldn't be more obsessed. Every part of this piece is luxurious, including the gorgeous wooden box it came in.
The watch's design is simple and sleek. When I initially ordered the watch, I planned on styling it with a set of wood bead bracelets, but when I saw it in person, I decided that it needed to be worn alone.  How would you guys style this piece?
Jord has in-house artists, designers, and watch smiths that design and create with intricacy and care.  You can see the beautiful detail (shown below) in the logo alone. 
This watch is amazing; the craftsmanship, functionality, and design are all on point. Jord carries both men and women's pieces so make sure you guys check them out!  They ship internationally - US residents get free shipping - AND you can get it sized beforehand for a small fee.

Written by Zoe Luiz

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Addicted to a Memory

I'm all about style with ease on Sensible Stylista today.  I was feelin' a little lazy TBH so I went with a simple loose top + shorts combo.  You really can't go wrong IMO!  It's casual chic at its best - just as comfy as sweats and 1000x more fashionable.  ALSO, clicky here for my weekly HauteDeals - I published them earlier today!
I don't know if you guys read my NY post (clicky here if you missed it), but I told y'all that I visited the Almost Famous showroom during my trip.  I had a blast browsing their collection, and I left with a ton of goodies.  They seriously have the CUTEST stuff - their clothing is available in stores like Charlotte Russe, Macy's, and Zumiez.  I really can't recommend them enough!  
Unfortunately, I don't have a product link for you guys!  No worries though, here are some other adorable options for y'all.  Let's start with chic striped tops...
...and move onto fab jean shorts...
ANYWHO, let's get back to Almost Famous.  I think the thang that impresses me most is quality.  Don't get me wrong, their designs are freakin' fab, but the quality of their stuffs = so on point.  Have you guys shopped AF's collection?
A back shot for you guys. I just LOVE the lace! What a great way to elevate an otherwise basic top - FYI, when I say "basic", I mean basic as in "standard", not like OMG that girl is such a basic betch, ha.  Just clarifying *grins*
 Top:  c/o Almost Famous
Shorts:  c/o Almost Famous
Earrings:  c/o Berricle ($39.99)

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True Colors

I'm excited to partner up with Danice Stores on SS today for Workwear Wednesday.  Their clothing is affordable yet cute!  I've collaborated with them many times before - I featured their gray crop HERE, their striped crop here, and their hi-lo skater skirt here.  Links for you guys, just in case you missed the previous posts!  Anywho, I centered today's office-friendly OOTD around my new midi skirt c/o Danice.  This fab piece transitions beautifully work to play.  I styled it with a striped crop top (from RD Style) - to avoid bunching of course - to keep it simple and chic.  For those of you interested, the skirt's available HERE for $14.99!  Here's some extra info for you guys...

Material:  100% polyester
Zipper:  located on the back of the piece
Pattern:  beautiful floral lace
Perfect for:  all occasions - looks BAMF for work & play
Vibe:  can be girly, trendy, chic, or sophisticated
Quality comparable to: H&M, Ann Taylor Factory Outlet
Available in: S, M, L
I'm wearing: size small
FYI:  the waist's on the looser side.  If you're a true x-small, this will probably be too big for you.

Skirt:  c/o Danice Stores ($14.99)
Top:  c/o RD Style
Bag:  Prada
Shoes:  Candie's - old
Here are some other fab midi skirt picks for you guys in case you'd like to browse (varying price points):


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June Beauty Review

1.  Trilane Retinol + Vitamin C serum = magical powerhouse.  This amazing moisturizer visibly reduces the signs of aging and leaves your skin luminous and glowing.  It smoothes and evens out skin texture and speeds the turnover of skin cells!  It also diminishes brown spots and minimizes pores! FYI: a little bit goes a long way so don't be scared by the price tag.  Available HERE for $42.73.  Use code SAVERETC to get 20% off your purchase.  You're welcome in advance *grins* Code expires 12/31/15.

2.  Adovia Dead Sea Salt Scrub - Made with REAL dead sea salt - 100% pure and genuine for an infusion of 21 minerals essential to proper skin function.  The fine grains exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal new, radiant skin!  Moisturizes deeply, infusing skin with luxurious hydration that lasts all day.  I like this so much more than the Aveda body scrub I was using!  I'm a fan.  This is a must-have for summer!  I like using this on my legs and arms.  Available here for $14.95 (originally $22).

3.  Exuviance Intensive Eye Treatment Pads - These eye pads are SERIOUSLY luxe.  You'll feel like you're in a freakin' spa.  They firm and hydrate your eye area while stimulating cell renewal and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles with Lactobionic Acid and Pro-vitamins A, C and E.  Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes are usually one of the first signs of aging.  Your eye area is thin and delicate, and it's constantly exposed to the damaging effects of sunlight and free radicals which weaken skin's support matrix leading to deep "crow's feet" wrinkles.

These single-use pads contain amazing concentrated ingredients that provide maximum anti-aging benefits GENTLY.  These pre-packaged sets refresh, replenish and revitalize!  It's mad simple to use. Just cleanse and dry the area, gently place one pad under or around each eye, and smooth it carefully onto your skin.  Relax for 10-30 minutes and then remove both pads! Throw them away after because they're non-reusable.  As always, Exuviance doesn't disappoint.  Their products are always on point! Get them for $48 HERE - 12 individually packaged applications.

Powered by Brandbacker, but all opinions are my own.

4.  Foreo Luna for Sensitive/Normal Skin - OBSESSED with this device.  Your skin looks hella radiant in three days.  If you want to get a deep cleanse + anti-aging benefits , the Luna's a must- have.  The device uses T-sonic technology, which delivers up to 8,000 pulsations per minute, and it's clinically proven to remove 99.5% of dirt and oil and 98.5% of makeup residue. It's fully waterproof and it lasts up to 450 uses per full charge.

I like this SO much better than the Clarisonic Mia.  I actually returned that device after a week because it made me break out like whoa!  The Luna is much gentler and it's easier to take care of.  I really can't recommend it enough!  Heads up, this item is a SPLURGE!  Think of it as a really good investment.  FYI: Use code SLISTA to get an extra 10% off your purchase + free shipping.  Valid until 7/2.
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The Arts District

I'm excited to share another fab shoot I did with the amazing Ryan Chua on SS today.  This shoot took place in the Arts District (in LA obvi) - 'twas my fave location for sure.  The artwork was INCREDIBLE.  I was snappin' pics left and right.  Anywho, prior to this shoot Ry and I had a light breakfast at The Pie Hole - a super cute joint with delish pastries (savory + sweet) and amazing coffee.  I had a really yummy leek + swiss quiche, and RC got a cornbread chicken pie *thumbs up* I regret not takin' pics of the food.  I was mad hangry at the time, and I  didn't have the patience to take a pretty shot of it all, ha!  I just wanted it in my belly. I'm one of those people who can't function on an empty stomach.  I get super pissy!  I don't know how people skip breakfast because I'm hungry within the first 15 min. of waking.
A full body shot for you guys!  I was getting dim sum with other bloggers later for lunch, Christine (Kkarmalove) & Julia (LifesJules), so I wore a comfy dress to hide my future food baby.  Always thinkin' ahead of time *grins* I scored the dress at Charlotte Russe for $5 during their Memorial Day blowout!  It's super simple so I styled it with fierce gladiator sandals.  The sunnies + bag matched so of course I couldn't help but wear them.  A lot of faves in today's post!  These Kristin Perry Inc. sunnies are so on point.  Available HERE for $28 - seriously worth every penny.
A closer look at my sunnies!  The flower embellishments are so cute *forms heart with fingers*
Some other fab striped dresses for you guys, all at different price points!

One last full body shot for y'all!  The people behind me were having bratwursts.  I kind of wanted to jack someone's sausage, HAHA!  That sounds awful on so many different levels, but lucky for them I was already full.
 Shoes:  c/o Deb
Dress:  c/o Charlotte Russe
Bag:  YSL
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Empire State of Mind

I know it's Monday and errthang, but what can I say, I like starting the week off with a bang!  I featured a sexy OOTN for you guys today on SS because I felt like it.  This gorg two-piece is available HERE at AMICLUBWEAR for $39.99.  If this outfit looks familiar it's because I featured it HERE as a find-of-the-day not too long ago.  Anywho, if you wanna know more about the set I'm wearin', check out my review.  If you have questions, comment below! You guys can reach me on ANY of my social platforms - I ALWAYS respond so don't be shy!
Anywho, I just got back from NYC, and I'm HELLA tired.  My butt hurts so much from sitting - the drive from NY to Pits was long, at least for me (7 hours).    I had an amazing trip though!  Manhatten never disappoints. I was actually planning to do my first vlog on NYC but.. I totally forgot, ha.  I swear, I have the memory of Dory from Finding Nemo.  As always, food was incredible.  I got to try a bunch of different restaurants.  I'm gonna review them on Yelp soon so keep an eye out.  Clicky HERE to find me on that platform.  

Some highlights from my trip:
-met a bunch of new poeple  
-caught up with old friends from Peabody
-experienced Circle nightclub for the first time
-re-visited Juilliard
-saw my old crib - good ol' trump place
-saw Marcel from The Originals in the elevator of my hotel
-chilled at the Almost Famous showroom and met several of their amazingly talented designers
-hung out with the gorgoeus IG-er @elleisalwayshere
-took my parents to Moma
-met up with one of my fave professors from Juilliard, the brilliant Paul Sheftel

...I really should've taken pics!  I shared a few snaps but that's about it.  If you're interested in my adventures, you can follow along via snapchat!  My handle's @sensiblestylist.  I'm going to VA beach soon, and I PROMISE to take a lot of pictures there.
One last collage for you guys!  Oh, and what kind of stuffs do you want to see on my future YouTube channel? I'm brainstorming topics so if you have requests, please let me know!
Shoes:  Aldo - old
Bag:  c/o Amiclubwear ($24.99)
Two-piece:  c/o Amiclubwear ($39.99)
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The Scarf Shop

Partnering up with The Scarf Shop today on SS!  I can't wait for them to launch their new site.  They'll be selling stunning 100% silk scarves.  Talk about luxe - silk's def. one of my fave fabrics!  I accessorized with one today because it was kinda chilly out today.  I feel weird sayin' it's "chilly" during the summer *shrugs* the weather's been kind of cray. 
A closer look at my accessories.  Love, love, LOVE my new sunnies c/o Pacific Rim Eyewear.  Created in 2014 by husband-and-wife team Chris and Sally Lee Limburg; PRE started with Sally's endless challenge of finding fab shades that'd fit her Asian face.  She needed sunnies that'd fit a lower nose bridge, higher cheekbones, and wider temples!  

Thank you for selling these amazing sunglasses, Sally.  These babies are CRAZY stylish, and they fit my face SO well. In fact, my mom jacked them for herself because she thought they were so cute and comfy.  That's saying A LOT because my mom's mad fashionable + hella picky about shades.  She's tried errthang from Oakley to Prada so yeah, PRE's legit - on the pricy side but worth every penny.  Lucky for you guys, I have an exclusive code for you!  Enter SENSIBLE20 at checkout to get an extra 20% off your purchase. 
Regarding today's OOTD, I (obviously) stuck with a neutral color scheme.  I centered my look around my new scarf TBH.  I wore a loose top (from Madewell, cost about $18) and high-waisted shorts (from Forever 21) for a casual-comfy-chic vibe.  Oh, and if my purse looks familiar, it's because I featured it as a FOTD (find-of-the-day) HERE a while back.
Shorts:  Forever 21
Scarf:  c/o The Scarf Shop
Top:  Madewell
Bag:  c/o AMICLUBWEAR
Sunnies:  c/o Pacific Rim Eyewear
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