Sensible Stylista

8 Ways to Maintain Your Health When You're Busy as Hell

I don't know about you guys, but pretty much everyone I talk to nowadays is busy as hell, myself included!  It'd probably be really good for my health to head on over to the beach and take a few weeks off to bask in the sun, but unfortunately that's not really an option, at least not for me and, I assume, the 99%.  Not all of us can make money by simply existing like Kim Kardashian - damn her and her perfectly shaped badonkadonk.  

Now, hustling's great, and I love that we're all working so hard to "make it," but y'all need to think long term. That means, taking care of yourself both mentally and physically.  I compiled this list for busy individuals like myself looking to enhance the quality of their lives.  A few small changes make all the difference in the world!  You don't need to work out hours on end and eat salad for the rest of your life to stay in shape.  Keep reading for quick, easy and painless ways to upgrade your life.
1.  Eat breakfast.  I mean, the word literally tells you to break [the] fast.  Don't skip this meal even if you're in a rush because it's critical for your well-being.  It improves your focus tenfold and sets a healthy tone for the day by reducing hunger throughout, which in turn helps with weight management.
  
I personally enjoy eating hearty breakfasts - think oatmeal loaded with dried fruits, omelettes stuffed with colorful veggies and yogurt parfaits - but if I'm late, I grab a 1915 Bolthouse Farms™protein shake before running out - you can follow them on IG here for inspo.  I really like drinking them as meal replacements because they're filling and delicious. My favorite flavor's chocolate, but vanilla and coffee taste nomtastic, too. They're made with pea protein and almond + soy milk (you're welcome my vegan friends) and each drink contains 12 grams of protein consisting of non-GMO and gluten-free ingredients.
  
2.  Prep your meals.  If you want to save time and eat healthily, you need to cook food in advance. Meal prep means different things for different people so get your experiment on to figure out what works best for you. Many plan their entire day (including snacks), but I like to focus on the "big" meals (aka breakfast, lunch & dinner).  

Don't waste precious time standing in front of your fridge figuring out what you're going to make. Have everything ready to go so you're not tempted to make unhealthy choices!  As a plus (as if you need one), you'll save moolah because you're not running out to grab last-minute ingredients at the store every couple of days.

3.  Squeeze in quick workouts at least 2-3x a week.  It's so important to stay active, but not everyone has time to go to the gym.  If you happen to fall in that category, I recommend purchasing Shaun T's workout regimen T25. Words can't express how much I love this series!  You get a good mix of cardio and strength training, and you don't need any heavy duty equipment, just resistance bands or a set of free weights.  

If you're constantly pressed for time, this is the workout for you because, well, 25 minutes is all you need to get in shape.  Get the deluxe set here for $145.60!  Yes, it's on the pricier side, but it's far less expensive than enrolling at a gym, and you get the same results (if not better) in the comfort of your own home.  He includes a plan for optimal results, but I don't really follow it anymore to be honest.  I have favorite modules so I do those to get my sweat on.  Now, if you're strapped for cash, no worries! Pinterest's a freakin' goldmine.  There are thousands of different workout regimens available for your browsing pleasure! Click here to check out my workout board.

4.  Sneak in extra bits of physical activity whenever possible.  Here are a few ideas to get y'all started: do push-ups while waiting for your dinner to cook, take the stairs instead of hopping on the elevator at work, park your car further back, do jumping jacks during commercial breaks, crank out some calf raises while waiting for the bus, and so on and so forth!  You guys get the idea.  
5.  Make smart choices when eating out.  Let's be real, if you're a hustler, it's not always going to be possible to eat at home.  Maybe you have a lunch meeting with a client or a dinner party to attend. Regardless, it's up to YOU to make healthy choices for yourself - eat for the body you want, not the body you have.  Always ask for sauce/dressing on the side and go for baked, broiled or steamed items if possible.  Most restaurants have "lean" menus (or sections) with healthier options so keep an eye out and hold yourself accountable.

6.  Stay hydrated.  If you're thirsty, that means your body's already dehydrated aka your focus is deteriorating and you're fatigued.  Use a reusable water bottle to save moolah - store bought bottles will do serious damage to your wallet over time.  If you're not a fan of the taste, infuse it with your favorite fruit to make it more appealing. If you have trouble remembering to drink it, try creating a schedule for yourself, ie. a glass when you wake, before breakfast/lunch/dinner, and before bed.  This will help you fight the aging process, prevent weight gain, and flush out unwanted toxins.
7.  Carry healthy snacks with you.  Avoid vending machines like the plague unless you have the self-control necessary to make solid choices.  Regardless, purchasing a giant tub of raw and unsalted almonds at Costco for $10 beats buying a tiny pack for $2.  Bag snacks while prepping meals to save time! Other delicious options include:  unsweetened dried fruits, 1915 protein shakes, raw veggies + hummus, cottage cheese, and roasted chickpeas.

8.  Stretch your body regularly throughout the day.  Get up and move around for at least 5 minutes every hour or so!  Sitting on your butt from 9-5 straight will seriously mess up your health. In fact, ABC News states that, "when you're sitting, the big muscles in the lower part of the body, are completely unloaded.  They're not doing their job, and that inactivity prompts changes in the body's metabolism producing a number of biological signals which are linked to cancer."  Now, on top of that, if you're staring at a computer screen all day, you risk f*cking up your eyes and wrists as well. Take all that into account and fight it by forming healthy habits to combat whatever issue you may experience.

That's it, folks! I hope y'all found this article helpful.  I'm almost done for today, but before I leave you, I have one final perk to offer you guys.  1915 Bolthouse Farms has generously agreed to giveaway a box of their organic beverages.  If you're interested in entering, make sure you do so via rafflecopter below before June 14th.  You must be a US resident, age 18+ to enter.  Good luck, everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

The Drape Dress

For today's OOTD, I'll be featuring two of my latest finds.  On Memorial Day weekend, I hit up the Grove City outlet mall to get my shop on.  Lucky for me, BCBG was having a huge blowout sale - everything including clearance merchandise was an extra 50% off.  Needless to say, I went a little cray.  I got 7 things for $230 (!!!!)  Yeah, my monthly budget's spent for sure, but the splurge was worth it since I got a ton of bang for my buck.  
The dress I'm wearing today was originally $300+, but I got it for a flat $40.  I fell in love with it the second I saw it due to the drape front, high-low hem and color.  BCBG will always have a special place in my heart - their quality's of the highest caliber and their designs are always cute.  Since I don't have a product link for you guys, here's a widget with all my current fave BCBG dresses for your browsing pleasure.
Moving on to accessories!  I paired my dress with a thin cocoon cardi and threw on heels to match. In case you were wondering, the pumps were another outlet mall buy.  I picked them up at Nine West for $30 and bought a second pair in blush because they fit me so well.  You know what they say!  "If the shoe fits, buy them in every color," ha!  Yeah, that's pretty much how I'm going to justify all my shoe purchases from here on out.  

Moving on, I topped off my look by wearing a fabulous statement necklace.  I'm a huge fan of mixed metals so when I saw this item at JWholesale, I just knew I had to feature it.  Have you guys shopped at JWholesale yet? If not, make sure you do so STAT.  They sell hundreds of amazing designs for less so you'd be saving a ton of money in the long run. As always, let me know if you have any questions! 
Choker:  c/o JWholesale || Shoes:  Nine West || Dress:  BCBGMaxAzria || Bag:  Amiclubwear || Cardigan:  Deb

How a Pair of Sunnies Can Save Your Sight

Alright guys, today's post is all about eye health so make sure you take the time to read through this post carefully.  I'm no medical doctor, but I've (very sadly) experienced enough eye problems to last me a lifetime.  I've read up quite a bit on the topic so I'm gonna drop some knowledge on y'all...in an entertaining manner, of course!  So without further ado, let's get to it!
Why should you wear 'em? 

Other than the fact that they're super stylish, they shield your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet rays - extended exposure can cause cataracts (blurs vision), macular degeneration (straight up destroys vision) and pterygium (causes astigmatism).  Yeah, all that sounds scary as hell, but the sun's not the only danger out there.  Did you know that you could burn your cornea from spending too much time in the snow?  It reflects 80% of the sun's UV rays, hitting your peepers with a ridonkulous glare, which in turn causes a condition called snow blindness.  Moral of the story: wear shades when you go skiing or mountain climbing. 

So, we've covered sun and snow, which mean it's time to address sand, dust and all that jazz. The former can actually scratch you and cause permanent damage.  I mean, I can't even deal with having an eyelash in my contact lens.  I can't imagine how much it'd suck to have sand in my eyeball.  Yeah, no thanks! I'll definitely pass on that one.

Oh, and I forgot to mention that you'll get fewer headaches if you wear shades on the daily.  I get awful migraines all the time and most of them occur after long drives - bright sunlight does not mesh well with me.  Now, if you're lucky and you don't get 'em very often, you'll still benefit - sunglasses will help reduce eyestrain so you'll enjoy your time outdoors much more.
What kind of sunnies should you get?

Obviously, you should cop designs that look BAMF on your face, but you also need to make sure that they block out 99-100% of UVA and UVB radiation to protect your eyeballs fully.  If you spend a lot of time in the sun, go for polarized sunnies to reduce glare, and if you're super sensitive, throw on wrap-around sunnies to block out light from the side Lady Gaga style!  You want your sunnies to screen out 75-90% of visible light.  Note: the color and darkness have absolutely nothing to do with your shades and their ability to block rays. 
Where should you buy 'em?

I'm currently loving AC Lens because they carry all things eye related: sunnies, contacts, glasses, drops, and so on and so forth.  They have a huge selection so I can pretty much guarantee you'll find something you love without leaving the comfort of your home.  Simply pick your frames, email your prescription or provide your doc's digits, and let AC do the rest. They'll even check in with your MD to make sure everything's in line to save you time, and most importantly - since I'm sensible and all, ha - they help you save mad $$$ because their site is 50-75% less expensive than most.

Links to the sunnies worn above:  Picture 1, Picture 2, Picture 3
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of AC Lens. The opinions and text are all mine.

Sensible Stylista x Banana Republic: Part 2

A while back, I partnered up with Banana Republic for an outfit post on SS - click here if you missed the aforementioned blast.  They'd sent me two different pieces to style, but I didn't have the time to shoot part 2 until now.  So, for today's OOTD, I centered my look around my new BR top. Unfortunately, this tank's no longer available online, but I've linked similar options for you guys below so remember to scroll down.  
Anywho, I was feeling super summery so I decided to wear yellow from head to toe.  I paired my tank with a lacy pencil skirt to match for a fun yet polished work-friendly ensemble.  As you all know, I usually accessorize with jewelry but I skipped it for today's LOTD because I wanted the hue to take centerstage.  How do you guys feel about bright colors - are they a do or a don't? Would you wear a monochromatic look?  Make sure you let me know by commenting below!  Also, as promised above, here are similar tank options for your browsing pleasure (varying price points):
Skirt:  Shop Scoobie || Bag:  Chicwish || Top:  c/o Banana Republic || Shoes:  Cole Haan via DSW

The Lace-up Tunic

I've been super into tunics as of late because I find them comfortable & hella forgiving.  I've put on quite a bit of weight over the last few weeks so trust me when I say I need all the help I can get!  With that said, I centered today's OOTD around my new top from Stitch Fix.  I paired the piece with skinny jeans and threw on navy pumps to match.  I didn't accessorize with any jewelry for today's look, but I carried my magenta Givenchy Antigona to incorporate a pop of color.
A closer look at my top's lace-up detailing...
Bag:  Givenchy || Top:  Stitch Fix || Jeans:  Ditto || Shoes:  Tahari via TJ Maxx

The Best of Memorial Day Sales

In honor of Memorial Day, I compiled a list of fabulous sales for you all!  As Carrie Bradshaw wisely stated, "I like my money right where I can see it...hanging in my closet," ha.  Happy shopping, everyone!
American Eagle Outfitters:  25-50% off the AEO collection at AE.com!  Valid until 5/30.
Ann Taylor:  50% off all full-price styles with code SUMMER50 - valid until 5/31.
Asos:  20% off full-priced styles with code HISUMMER - expires 5/31.
Banana Republic:  40% off any order with code BRTAKE40 - expires 5/30.
Barneys New York:  40% off designer collection - ends 6/29.
Beauty.com:  Get 20% off for their friends & family event!
Bloomingdale's:  Extra 20% off select sale and clearance items with code BROWNBAG - expires 5/30.
Coach:  Up to 40% off - ends 6/11.
Cole Haan:  30% off sale styles with code EXTRA30 - valid until 5/31.
DVF:  Up to 30% off select styles and all sale items with code SUMMER30 - valid until 5/30.
Express:  40% off sitewide - expires 5/30.
Forever 21:  Extra 30% off sale items with code EXTRA30 - expires tonight!
Gilt:  Up to 80% off designer apparel - valid until 5/29.
Hudson:  Extra 20% off sale items - ends 5/30.
JCPenney:  $10 off $25 sitewide with code BUYNOW7 - expires 5/30.
J. Crew:  30% off any order with code WEEKEND - expires tonight!
Kate Spade:  Extra 25% off sale with code SPEECHLESS - expires 6/1.
Kohl's:  $10 off $25 sitewide with code SUPERSAVER - expires 5/30.
Levi's:  30% off sitewide with code MEMDAY - expires tonight!
L.L.Bean:  Up to 50% off clearance sale - valid until 7/1.
Loft:  Memorial Day Sale - 60% off summer faves and sale styles + 40% off new arrivals.  Valid until 5/30.
Lord + Taylor:  25% off $200+ and 20% off up to $199.99 with code GIVE.  Expires 5/30,
Luisaviaroma:  20% off $300, 30% off $500, 50% off $1000 - valid until 5/30.
Macy's:  Get 20% off + free shipping on orders $50+ with code MEMDAY.  Expires 5/30.
Nike:  Up to 50% off clearance + free shipping on all orders with Nike+ until 5/31.
Neiman Marcus:  Up to 40% off select categories - expires 5/31.
Nordstrom:  Half-yearly sale - up to 40% off.  Ends 6/5.
Old Navy:  50% off tees, tanks, swim, and shorts until 5/30.
Petco:  Up to 20% off!  Get a free $30 egift card when you sign up for repeat delivery - valid until 5/31.
Puma:  25% off sale items with code MEMORIALDAY - valid until 5/30.
Ralph Lauren:  Extra 30% off with code MEM30 - valid until 5/31.
Saks Off Fifth:  Up to 85% off with code FROMSAKS - ends 5/30.
Shoebuy:  Get 25% off + free shipping with code EBATES25 - valid until 6/1.
Tarte:  Get 20% off with code TARTEWKND - ends 5/30.
UKIES:  Get an extra 35% off with code SENSIBLESTYLISTA35 - valid until 6/1.

Stitch Fix: Part 2

A while back, I told you guys all about Stitch Fix on Sensible Stylista - click here if you missed the aforementioned post.  If you're into personalized shopping experiences, my feature's an absolute must-read.  To sum things up in a nutshell, you fill out a detailed profile on SF and a stylist handpicks items for you.  Their service is ideal for busy students/professionals because fabulous clothing's literally being delivered to you.

I absolutely loved my latest box!  I wanted to buy everything (you get an extra 20% off if you do), but I was good and only kept two pieces.  I centered today's OOTD around my new striped tee!  I'm a huge fan of the print so I instantly fell for this item.  Oh, and FYI, I'm not wearing a shirt underneath it - it's part of the top!  Yay for faux-layering, ha.  I styled the tee with a thin cardigan and skinnies for a polished yet casual look.  To top things off, I threw on heels to match!
Here's a close-up shot of my necklace from JWholesale.  If it looks familiar to y'all, it's because I featured it here not too long ago!  This item is definitely a closet-fave.  I mean, what's not to like? It goes with everything and always elevates my style tenfold!  If you're looking for new baubles, make sure you head on over to JWholesale.  I seriously get all my jewelry there!  If you want legit bang for your buck, you need to check them out STAT.  Let me know if you have any questions.  I'm here for you guys 24/7!  
Necklace:  JWholesale || Cardi:  Madewell || Skinnies:  Vince via TJ Maxx || Top:  RDStyle via Stitch Fix || Heels:  Wild Diva

My Workout Essentials

It's time for another fitness update!  I know it's been a while, but I wanted to share my must-haves with you guys today on Sensible Stylista.  Staying in shape has never been harder - with school, work, blogging and whatnot, it's been tough keeping a steady exercise regimen.  I always used to rail on people who used "I don't have time" as an excuse, but I'm kinda starting to feel sympathetic!  I haven't been able to work out daily, but I try to squeeze it in at least 2-3 times a week.  I know that's weak, but I just gotta power through this month!  Plus, better some than none, right?  Things will be much easier once I finish teaching + my residency at Strathmore - I'll make sure to go extra hard this summer to compensate!
1.  TKO Running Belt ($9.99) - Founded by Garry Kurtz, TKO was first a boxing company, but has since evolved into a health and fitness equipment, accessory and apparel lifestyle-brand.  Kurtz is committed to building a brand comprised of high quality, innovative products that are accessibly priced.  Presently, they sells boxing gloves, punching towers, cross fit gear, yoga mats, and more! Convenience and practicality go hand in hand with a successful work out.  Therefore, this running belt is essential for many hands-free activities.  This item's water-resistant and has two expandable pockets that accommodate a mobile device, keys, wallets, and other essentials while remaining sleek in appearance.

2.  Polar A300 Fitness Tracker ($125.97) - Counting calories is a must IMO - I'm a huge fan of food journaling because I believe 80% of your bod is made in the kitchen.  This fitness tracker helps me keep everything organized.  I'm strict about how much I burn vs. how much I eat so it's crucial for me to track my stats.  I bought this watch years ago, and I still use it religiously every time I get my sweat on!  I also like to keep an eye on my heart rate to make sure I'm making the most of every sesh. Personally, I'm a big fan of HIIT because it's the efficient - it gives you an all-day metabolic boost, while burning the most possible fat in the shortest amount of time.

3.  Great Gear Infuser Bottle ($10.97) - This water bottle is everything.  If you're a fan of flavored water, this item's a must-have.  Do yourself a favor and invest in this infuser to save a buttload of money!  Why pay a ridonkulous amount of dough on drinks when you can create your own delish concoctions at home? I personally love filling this baby up with raspberries, lemons, and cucumbers...er, not all at the same time, of course.  Also, the spout's totally leak proof - it has a locking lid - so you don't have to worry about getting water all over yourself when you're exercising.

4.  T25 by Shaun T - After completing Insanity, I knew I had to try this series out.  Words can't express how much I love this set - with T25, 25 minutes is all you need to get into tip-top shape.  It contains three phases total:  alpha, beta, and gamma (15 different modules).  You get a good mix of cardio + strength training, and you don't need any heavy duty equipment, just resistance bands and/or a set of free weights!  If you're constantly pressed for time, this is the workout for you. Seriously.  I know it's pricy, but it's worth every penny.  You're welcome in advance. 

5 Easy Ways to Display Your Jewelry Like a Boss

1.  Showcase statement pieces on pretty dishes. My personal favorite is a decoupage glass tray handcrafted by Ben Busko - I like to display my cocktail rings on it! Mine says "life starts at the edge of your comfort zone," and it's available HERE for purchase.  However, you can order custom trays in different sizes - they're made-to-order, and you can personalize it with keepsakes, wedding invites and family photographs. Place one of these babies on your coffee table to elevate your interior game tenfold.
2.  Hang your long necklaces.  I absolutely love jewelry holders like the ones pictured below because they double as wall art.  Personally, I'm a huge fan of Urban Outfitters' interior selection.  Their pieces tend to be on the pricier side, but they're unique and high-quality so they're well worth the $$$ IMO.  However, stores like TJMaxx, Marshalls, and Ross sell cute ones from time to time so keep your eyes peeled if you'd rather wait it out.  

3.  Display your bracelets on the necks of wine bottles.  I absolutely love repurposing them - in fact, so much so that I'm thinking about writing a post on the many uses they have!  Let me know if you think I should by commenting below.  I personally like to group different sizes together (tall vs. short, thin vs. fat, you get the point).  Vary your bracelet stack for an effortlessly cool vibe - you want to showcase different styles like I did below.
4.  Store jewelry in re-purposed containers.  Save cute boxes and hold your accessories in them! It's really as simple as that.  Stack them on trays or place them on shelves to incorporate fun pops of color.  I personally don't see the need to purchase new ones when I can simply re-use items I already have.  As you can see below, I kept boxes from Laduree, Kendra Scott, and Kate Spade.
5.  Organize your necklaces on a shoe rack.  A few years ago, I bought this shoe rack on Gilt because I thought it'd look cute in my apartment (which it did), but it unfortunately damaged my heels by widening the fronts of them.  I thought about throwing it away, but the frugal side of me kicked and thought, "hm, it's still in perfect condition - maybe I could use it to store something else?"  Yeah, I'm SO glad I didn't trash it because it's a super convenient and fun way to display my statement necklaces.  I especially love that each "level" rotates!  
I hope you guys found these tips useful!  How do you guys like to display your jewelry?  

AOL Summer Beauty Awards

I'm stoked to announce that I'm one of AOL's summer beauty judges!  I don't know if you guys remember, but last year, I adjudicated their fall awards - click here if you missed it.  Now, if you guys follow me on snapchat (which you should BTW, ha - my handle's @sensiblestylist), you saw the slew of goodies they sent me.  I'll be telling y'all about my absolute favorites today on Sensible Stylista.
1.  Fekkai Pré-Soleil Hair Radiance & Protection Mist ($19.99) - This product's a must-have for those of you who enjoy frolicking around in the sun.  This mist helps protect your mane from damaging threats like color fade and dehydration while adding radiant shine - it contains a UV filter that basically acts as an invisible shield for your hair. Shake well and spritz it on before and during outdoor shenanigans for best results.  Note:  the directions say to "spray all over," but I recommend exercising self-control because a little goes a long way.  2-3 pumps are more than enough!

2.  Bliss Drench 'n' Quench Lock-in Moisturizer ($38) - I've been obsessed with Bliss body cream for years now, but for some strange reason, I never got around to trying their facial moisturizers.  I'm really glad I had the opportunity to do so though because this item's legit.  It smells amazing and works well with all skin types - I have combination skin, and this product does a great job hydrating. However, what I really love about the product is its texture.  The gel-like consistency feels refreshing and leaves skin soft and supple, which is perfect for summer!

3.  Instanatural Argan Oil Thermal Spray ($13.25) - Heat-protector sprays are an absolute must in my book - the last thing you want to do is fry your hair when styling it so if you use any heat whatsoever, you need to make sure you prevent damage by spritzing this on beforehand.  Instanatural's thermal spray acts as both a protector spray and leave-in conditioner so you're getting major bang for your buck. This product contains 100% pure and organic argan oil from Morocco so your hair's receiving max nourishment and shine.

4.  Mary Kay Lash Love Waterproof Mascara ($15) - I'm super impressed with this mascara.  It does a great job lengthening and creates mad volume without any clumping so feel free to get your layer on if you want!  This formula's ophthalmologist-tested so it's suitable for those with sensitive eyes, and the product strengthens and conditions because it contains the following ingredients:  pro vitamin B5, phytantriol, and vitamin E.

5.  Fiona Stiles Ultra Smooth Waterproof Eye Defining Pencil ($16) - Straight up obsessed with this eyeliner.  It goes on super smooth and is highly pigmented.  The color lasts all day and doesn't smudge at all!  I've only tried metallic brown, but I'm going to purchase matte black and carlyle in the near future.  If you're looking for creamy liner that glides on effortlessly and stays put, give this baby a shot!

6.  Amika Triple RX Nourishing Hair Mask ($38) - If you're looking for a solid intensive hair treatment, look no further.  This product works really well!  The mask combines obliphica (aka sea buckthorn berry), Amika's signature ingredient, with borage oil and west african shea butter. The former strengthens and softens while the latter coats the hair shaft to condition and protect.  Use this once a week to up your hair game!  Massage it into your scalp and leave it on for 5 minutes or so before rinsing it off thoroughly with warm water.  You'll see immediate results!

7.  Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C Sleeping Cream ($11.89) - Honestly, I'm shocked that this product is under $12.  I tried to find it on Ulta, but unfortunately, they don't carry it so I linked it to Amazon instead.  If you're looking to brighten your complexion, make sure you pick this up STAT.  It nourishes while improving one's moisture balance.  

Have you guys tried any of these products?  If yes, which ones and did you like them?  

The Striped Tank: 4 Ways

Alright guys, today's post is a goodie for me because it's all about remixing!  I've decided to do more of these from here on out because honestly, there's nothing more sensible than re-styling pieces.  As I'm sure y'all can tell by the title, I'm all about my Chaser tank today on SS.  I've already shared these looks with you guys on here, but I wanted to create a recap just in case!  Plus, it's fun to compare looks side by side.  
1.  This was definitely a Spring fave of mine!  I partnered up with Black Petunia to style their distressed sleeveless vest for this post.  I ended up pairing it with my striped tank because it complemented the piece beautifully.  I threw on tomboyish ankle boots to further reinforce my casual vibe and carried a stylish crossbody bag to top off my look.  To see deets from this post, clicky here to access the full blast.

2.  I pretty much lived in this ensemble when I visited NYC a while back - click here to read about Big Apple shenanigans.  I don't know if you guys remember, but I went up there to give a social media workshop for the Fashion Potential.  To read more, click on the aforementioned link!  Anywho, this look is yet another fave of mine because it's pretty BAMF for me.  Wearing this outfit definitely helped me channel my inner badass.  I paired the tank with high-waisted shorts to showcase the small of my waist, creating the illusion of longer legs; anddddd speaking of illusions, if you want to look 10 pounds lighter with fashion, click here.  I threw on a sleeveless vest for warmth and accessorized with my favorite body chain to add edge.  Click here to see more!

3.  I was aiming for casual sophistication here!  I paired my tank with skinny jeans and threw on a fitted blazer on top for polish.  I elevated my potentially blah look with stylish cap-toed heels and fierce statement jewelry.  To read more about my look, click here to access the original post.

 4.  By far the most formal of the four, this outfit was featured quite recently on SS!  I centered my post around my new utility skirt - it was a steal at $20  - from Banana Republic.  I've always been a huge fan of the military trend - I even have a pinterest board dedicated to it here - so purchasing this was a no-brainer.  I typically accessorize with lots of jewelry, but I skipped it for this look because I wanted to keep things clean and simple.  I carried my YSL snakeskin crossbody instead though - IMHO the chain's bold enough to act as a faux-necklace!  To see more shots from this post, click here.

I hope you guys enjoyed this post!  Which ensemble do you guys like best - 1, 2, 3 or 4?  Make sure y'all let me know by leaving me a comment below.

Brooklyn Hat Company

You guys have no idea how excited I am for summer!  I, for one, am pumped to whip out my massive collection of sunhats.  Cute lids are everything - not only do they help you practice safe sun, they elevate your style tenfold. Anywho, for today's post, I'll be telling you guys all about my current favorite hat brand.  

Founded in a small studio in Williamsburg, NY, Brooklyn Hat Company invigorates the social graces of the new and old, delivering diverse styles that blend the past with the future by incorporating fine fabrics in a wide selection of colors and textures.  Unique designs and trims, diversified silhouettes and shapes, high-end materials are some of the many great features for which this brand focuses.  

Beauty Review: Gillette's Venus Silk-Expert

This post was sponsored by Gillette Venus as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.  I received complimentary products to facilitate my review.  
I'm super excited to tell you guys all about Gillette's new Venus Silk-expert.  For those of you looking to try a different hair removal experience, this tool is a convenient and comfortable solution.  It features cutting edge tech that's easy to handle.  I'm all about at-home spa experiences so this device is a total must-have for me!  The Venus Silk-expert marks a milestone in IPL (intense pulsed light) systems because it has a unique SensoAdapt skin tone sensor that adjusts automatically - it delivers the right amount of light, eliminating the complicated manual color charts that other devices require.  

Y'all have no idea how excited I am to blog about this.  I first heard about IPL a year or so ago - my friend was getting married and she booked several sessions with a pro to prep herself for her honeymoon.  I remember her raving about how well it worked for her!  I wanted to try it out for myself, but I never got around to doing so because it was so freakin' expensive (think thousands of $$$).  Now, thanks to Venus, I can do it myself for a flat fee.  The full treatment cycle takes 12 weeks so I don't have final results to share yet, but I'm going to tell you guys about my experience thus far.  
First things first, it comes with one IPL device (as you can see, it's fancy looking and fits perfectly in my hand), a two-part power cord, a razor and a user manual.  I read the instructions thoroughly from front to back - if you're looking to try this baby out yourself, take the time to do so as well.  Note: this item works best on mid-to-light skin tones + darker shades of hair! If you have dark skin and light hair, this may not work as well - just giving you a heads up.

Anywho, it's important to realize that this product doesn't remove hair - its purpose is to break the cycle of hair growth so hair will become weaker, finer, lighter, and grow slower.  You start out by using this device consistently (once a week for 12 weeks), but after that, you only really have to do it once a month, maybe even less down the road.  FYI, you still have to shave in between to get stray hairs - that's why they included the razor!  
To start, I tried it on my legs.  The device delivers 120,000 pulses, and there are two power levels: normal and gentle.  It operates in target mode & gliding mode - the latter's best for large areas like your legs.  The treatment requires you to shave the area before use so I used the provided razor + gentle soap to prep.  Do not slather on lotions or the like because the area needs to be free of oils pre-treatment.  

Using the Venus Silk-expert is easy-peasy.  Simply plug the adapter into the wall, then plug in your tool. The device will light up with a blue UV light!  Remember to always keep full contact with the treated area, and be careful not to expose your eyes to the laser.  Like I mentioned previously, I used the "glide" function on my legs, and the "target" function on my ankles and knees!  If all goes well, I'll be using this baby on my underarms and bikini line.  Oh, and if you were wondering, I used the gentle setting just to be safe.  I was worried that it'd hurt, but the whole experience was totally painless.  I don't see a huge difference yet, but I've only been at it for the last 4 weeks or so.  I trust that this device will deliver, and I'm looking forward to shaving (much) less in the future.

Please let me know if you guys have any questions or concerns.  I'm here for y'all 24/7! Seriously. Don't be afraid to reach out!  The Venus Silk-expert is available online at huge retailers like Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond, and pricing starts at $399 - clicky here to try it out for yourself.  Also, there's going to be a #VenusSilkExpert twitter party on June 3rd from 12-1 PM EST hosted by @Momcentral & @GilleteVenus so make sure you guys save the date! 

The Utility A-line

I've been a huge fan of the military trend for god knows how long now so I'm thrilled (to say the least) to tell you guys all about my new utility a-line!  I picked it up at Banana Republic a few months ago for $20.  Don't ask me why I waited so long to feature it on SS - I mean, I've worn it out several times already so who knows.  Better late than never though, right?  

Anywho, for today's look, I paired my skirt with a striped tank on top for an effortlessly stylish look.  I could've dressed it up with a button-front, but I wanted to do something a bit more casual for you guys.  I kept things simple on the accessory front and skipped jewelry altogether, but my bag kind of functions as a faux-necklace so it works out!  To finish off the look, I threw on strappy wedges - I got them at Aldo way back in the day, and I still love wearing 'em.  How do you guys feel about the military trend - is it a do or a don't?
Tank:  Chaser || Skirt:  Banana Republic || Bag:  YSL || Shoes:  Aldo

Give Yourself the Perfect Mani: Must-Have Tools

Alright guys, today's post is extra sensible because I'm going to tell y'all how to give yourselves pro manicures at home.  You're welcome in advance - not only am I going to help you save mad dough, you're going to do so while maintaining your nail game.  So, without further ado, let's get right to it!  Here are my must-haves:
1.  Zoya Remove+ Nail Polish Remover ($11) - To give yourself a killer mani, you need to start with a solid base. That means, thoroughly removing any polish you've applied previously!  This product does an outstanding job.  It doesn't dry you out - brittle nails are the worst - and as a plus, the pump's extremely convenient.  It's much gentler than other regular removers yet gets the job done in a few swipes with little or no effort.

2.  Ulta Nail Clippers ($5) - Before filing your nails, you need to shape them by carefully clipping them.  I like using these babies from Ulta - they have a streamlined design for effortless control and tapered edges for superior cutting.  They're super light yet sturdy!

3.  Emjoi Micro-Nail Device ($39.95) - After clipping, you want to gently file your nails into shape - go for a slightly rounded shape or square-rounded edge.  Metal or coarse files can do serious damage. Do your fingers a favor and invest in the Micro-Nail device pictured above.  This unique device has an innovative roller spinning 360 degrees at 30 times per second to gently buff away ridges, imperfections and discolorations while adding shine. A huge thanks to Lipton PR for letting me sample this product.  Note:  don't buff nails too smooth or else your polish won't adhere.

4.  OPI Nail Polish ($10) - After soaking your hands in warm water, removing callouses/excess cuticles, and moisturizing, paint your nails with your favorite polish.  Personally, I love OPI!  I'm currently obsessed with this pastel mint green - it's called "That's Hula-rious," ha!  The new Hawaii Collection is on point.  Anywho, remember to pain your nails in layers.  If you have weak nails, use a base!  Then, apply your color polish in layers - two should do the trick, but remember to let each layer dry in between.

5.  Orly Polishield ($10) - To finish off your mani, apply a layer of this 3-in-1 topcoat to strengthen and protect your nails.  It dries super fast and isn't thick like most!  It'll keep your mani from chipping and help you maintain serious shine - your nails will seriously look glasslike.  Tip:  touch up your nails every two days or so with a layer of topcoat to extend your mani's life span. Trust me when I say it'll make a world of a difference!

Sensible Stylista x Banana Republic

I'm stoked to partner up with Banana Republic again on Sensible Stylista!  I centered today's OOTD around my new dress courtesy of BR.  This adorable floral number is perfect for summer.  The lightweight fabric is just the right amount of airy, and the design's super comfortable yet cute.  The silhouette's kind of boxy, but you can control its shape with a built-in waist-tie.  Pair it with cute gladiator sandals for an effortlessly stylish everyday look or style it with heels like I did below to dress things up a bit!  
To top off my look, I accessorized with a fun hat from Dynamic Asia! For those of you interested, it's available at Chapel Hats or Diane's Beachware.  The quality's legit BTW so feel free to get your shop on.  I've been a hat aficionado for quite some time now, and this piece is, hands down, one of the cutest items I've ever seen!  You're welcome in advance.
Oh, and here's a close up shot of my new shoes courtesy of Clarks.  I can't get over how adorable they are.  If you're a fan of metallics, you need to picks these babies up STAT.
Shoes:  c/o Clarks || Hat:  c/o Dynamic Asia || Dress:  c/o Banana Republic

An International Giveaway with Spot This: Win a $100 Amazon Gift Card

I'm super excited to partner up with Spot This for an international giveaway today on Sensible Stylista. They've generously offered to raffle away a $100 Amazon gift card, and as always, rules are super simple.  All you have to do enter is register on the site aka enter in your email address.  It seriously couldn't get any easier!  Oh, and you don't have to worry about them spamming you with messages.  They won't send you anything unless you use their site...which you should. Note: there are several bonus entries available to up your chances of winning.
Anywho, I featured them on Sensible Stylista HERE a while back, but let me refresh y'all and tell you guys what they're all about.  A Maryland based start-up, Spot This is constantly guided by the Digman Center for Entrepreneurship.  They're an on demand discovery service for fashion!  You upload pictures of looks you like onto the website, specify size + price range and then just wait. Their fashion stylists find you similar matches that fit your budget so you can re-create cute looks from the comfort of your home!  Super convenient, right? Alright guys, this giveaway ends on June 6th and is open internationally.  Good luck, everyone!

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The Boho Mini Dress

Totally pumped to share today's post with you guys! I'm featuring Chaser again because, well, I love their clothing. It's really as simple as that!  Their designs are effortlessly stylish, and their quality's always on point. What's not to love?  Anywho, for my latest, I'm showing y'all how I do boho.  I centered my OOTD around my new vintage inspired LWD.  I guess it's actually more of a LCD (little cream dress).  Made of 100% nylon, this flirtatious number is perfection - available to purchase HERE.  I styled this stunner with platform Seychelles!  I love that they match the beading on my drawstring belt.  For those of you interested, this piece is also available in black HERE.
Shoes:  Seychelles || Dress:  Chaser