New Year 2014.

Wow, this has been a busy and somewhat difficult year.

I could complain, but I honestly think that the hard times I had this year presented themselves as obstacles which I needed to complete. Lessons more than anything. And boy, did I learn! As much as I thought I was mature before, I wasn't. I turned 20 this year, but it took me some time to know what being an "adult" means. And even now, I think I'm still learning.

Life can bring you down sometimes, and no matter how hard you try you cannot change the way other people act or think. All you can do is change and improve yourself.

That saying that goes "Happiness comes from the inside..." is totally true. You can't lead a positive and awesome life if you feel sad and gloomy on the inside. Faking it doesn't work either by the way, it just postpones the fall.

This New Year (and every new day, actually) is an opportunity for everyone to start from scratch. To pick yourself up and get it together. Take control of your life. Don't complain about what you don't have, work with what you do have. And make the best of it. Realize that you could be living the life of your dreams, right now. You never know if tomorrow will come, so make every moment worthwhile.

Happy New Year, and may 2014 be the BEST ONE! Make it so!

*kisskiss* - Adrienne.

Insomnia Blues.

I don't know if I've said this before, but I suffer from really bad insomnia. I don't even remember when or how it started, but I do know it's one of the very few things that make me feel powerless. I have such a hard time trying to go to sleep, that I have to take pills (which by the way are for treating nausea) so I can fall asleep. I could try taking pills that are purposely for falling asleep but I'm scared I'll develop an addiction. Still, I can't go one day without taking the ones I already do take, so I guess that's already done.

I can't understand how there are some people who go to bed at dawn and have no trouble waking up the next morning (cough, cough, my sister). I simply can't do that. If I go to bed late, I have to at least sleep a few hours.
One of the biggest concerns I have about this situation is that sometimes when I do go to bed reasonably early, I get woken up by my sister in the middle of the night. And trust me, once I wake up I have to start the process of taking pills/falling asleep all over again.

I really hope that this new year I will be able to go to bed early, sleep for eight hours like a normal human being, and wake up early in the morning. This is DEFINITELY going to be one of my resolutions. I think a good way to solve it will be by exercising daily. That is going to take a huge effort from my part.

What about you?  Do you have trouble falling asleep?

*kisskiss* - Adrienne.

New Year's Resolutions.

Everyone has tried at some point in their life to set a few New Year's Resolutions every new year. Maybe they don't strictly plan them out or write them down, but I think it's safe to say they at least think about those guilty pleasures and why they ought to stop doing them. Up until now, for me, it's not been really a goal. I really do have the good intentions of personal development, but when I say I am writing down my resolutions, I usually forget about them and never get to do them. This, I think, has a lot to do with setting unrealistic or too high expectations of change. I know, that I am capable of improving myself and I've certainly done it before. But I think the key here is BABY STEPS.

If you set resolutions that you know are too high for you to get done in a matter of days, you're most likely not to get around to getting them done.
So in the spirit of REALLY wanting to get rid of those terrible (and not so terrible) bad habits, set goals you know are realistic. Don't go to far. Well, at least that's what works for me.

This year, I think I'll have at least 3 main resolutions, and other small ones that are not so time-consuming. I am really excited for this New Year. I am always excited when it's about to be the New Year, but I think this year will have so much potential that I can almost feel it. I like believing in the significance of numbers. My favorite number is 7, and the separate numbers of 2014 add up to 7, so maybe it has something to do with that!
I love the holidays and am totally in the complete jolly spirit of it!

Do you already have your New Year's Resolutions?

*kisskiss* - Adrienne.

Wednesday Morning.

God, I have such a love/hate view towards mornings. Usually, I like getting up early on account that I suffer from insomnia and spend most of my night time hours wide awake. So naturally, waking up early isn't that easy for me. I really would love to change this about myself; I've had the worst experiences trying to fall asleep but once I've fallen asleep, I CAN'T WAKE UP. Seriously, it's like I'm dead.

Anyway, since about two years ago I've been taking sleeping pills (not the addictive type, though), and they work just fine for me. One at night usually does the trick. I did this last night and I went to bed early (11:30 or so) BUT woke up in the middle of the night at 4 a.m. I've had this happen to me quite a few times, and I absolutely loathe it.

To cease my whining ( I have been doing a lot of that lately, haha!), I really think it's time for me to re focus on my life goals and plans.What better time to organize my whole life again than the upcoming New Year?! I am very excited. I considered this period of time to be sort of a vacation. I am good and ready to start preparing myself for college. I will start attending next fall, yikes! But I will be spending the next six or seven months without going to school, so I HAVE to get a job. Some extra money never hurts, and I really want to be busy doing something else than only caring for myself. I think a excellent job option would be teaching. I love kids, I love English, and I have some decent communication skills. So, I'll give that a try I think.

Here's the inspirational/motivational quote of the day, and have a GREAT one!

Time to get some coffee!

*kisskiss* - Adrienne.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

OH MY GOOD LORD. I have already stated how much of a Harry Potter fan I am. Just to think that I honestly consider that The Hunger Games trilogy is right up there next to Harry Potter, amazes me. I never thought that I could love anything else as much as I love Harry Potter, and now, I do. And all be it, it's another set of books! I had this realization when I first finished watching Catching Fire. WOW. It was the best movie I've seen this year (because I saw Silver Linings Playbook in 2012 so, yeah...). I am definitely going to read the books now. The movie is just so beautifully done that I cried the whole time. It just got to me. It has themes that I think are very interesting, like standing up to the government, injustice, social movements, family and friendship. I think right now my two favorite characters are Effie and Johanna. Effie is just so sweet and a bit of an airhead, but is a good person. And Johanna, well, SHE'S JUST BAD ASS. Not to mention that my all time favorite actress is Jennifer Lawrence, she is honestly a tremendous performer. I really like her because she seems to be a nice, goofy and down to Earth person in real life. Anyway, I really loved the movie. I already watched it two times and am considering going a third time. Really well done film.

Did you like the movie? Which of the two did you like the most?

*kisskiss* - Adrienne.

Back on board.

I really can't express in mere words how sorry I am that haven't posted anything for some time now. It's not that I have a big audience, but I definitely have a passion for writing/blogging. I've just been super busy lately, and honestly November was an EXCELLENT month.

First thing to catch up on, is I had a great time on Halloween. I had a really fun time with my friends. I went to a costume party at a night club with a bunch of them and earlier in the day ate A LOT of candy. As usual, I had to have my fix of creepy movies/series and listened to my scary playlist quite a bit. As for the costume, I decided to go for vintage glam party goer, and I think it turned out pretty awesome. Here's the picture...

Now, November was seriously a GREAT month. I traveled to Las Vegas with my mom and my sister. We needed some serious bonding/family time. I had the time of my life. Since I'm not 21 yet (two months more, baby!) I couldn't enter the casinos or drink legally. But still, there's tons of stuff to do in Vegas. Most importantly some awesome shopping. We bought loads of cool stuff and I practically remade my wardrobe. The whole experience was definitely the best and I really did become a lot closer to my mom and sister. The only bad thing I would say was; I really was looking forward to buying a lot of books but I guess Las Vegas isn't really the place to buy books at. Anyway I got some good ones at Target and am currently reading one of them. It's really good. It's title is Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children. We got back to Mexico super tired though no jet lag I guess.

December is already here, and I'm a HUGE fan of the holidays. I honestly CAN NOT wait or Christmas. I am very excited. 

What have you been up to lately? 

*kisskiss*, Adrienne. 

Halloween Playlist.

Finally, we're 1 day away from Halloween! As I have said before, this is my favorite holiday of all! Personally when October comes around, it's all good from then on; October, November, December and the January. I just love it.

Recently I've been listening to some spooky songs to get myself in the Halloween spirit. I made a playlist and since I think it's really good, I want to share it. If by now you're not feeling super excited then this playlist will hopefully make you feel "spook-tacular"! 

First off is "This is Halloween" from the movie The Nightmare Before Christmas. This song is a classic. The lyrics are awesome and it's the kind of scary stuff which everyone can tolerate! It reminds me so much of when I was a kid, and I bet it will remind you of it too! 

"Twisted Nerve" by Bernard Hermann. This song is part of the Kill Bill soundtrack, as well as being featured in the awesome first season of American Horror Story. This gives me the chills because it's supposedly the song Tate whistles along to when doing the shootings. Whistling? That's creepy stuff...

Next is "I put a spell on you" by Creedence Clearwater Revival. This song has a lot of different versions. All of them are good, but I chose this one because Creedence Clearwater Revival is one of my favorite bands (I grew up on rock music, thanks Dad!). It makes me feel like some bad*ss witch or something!

"Black Magic Woman" by Carlos Santana. Another "witch anthem" and coincidentally, rock genre song! I love this song, Carlos Santana is just AMAZING. He makes you feel the magic! Carlos is also Mexican, so I'm proud! 

Tubular Bells or The Exorcist Theme. I am a hundred percent sure this song gives the chills to ANY alive person today. The classic suspenseful music is just creepy. 

"Don't Fear The Reaper" by Blue Oyster Cult is a slightly less creepy or scary song. But I had to put it on this list. It's a song about death and The Grim Reaper. Which is just enough for it to be up here. 

"Halloween Theme" or "Michael Myers" I'm not sure what the actual title is, only that this song scares the living ... out of me. AND it's the theme song to the 1980s movie HALLOWEEN. It was obviously going on this list. 

"Thriller" by Michael Jackson. This is I think, a no-brainer. Come on, it's the scariest song in pop culture, and better yet, it's MICHAEL JACKSON. Ghosts and the un-dead dancing around, LOVE IT!

"Serial Killer" by Lana Del Rey. So I'm a sucker for rock music but I also happen to love pop music ok? This song is about a serial killer and Lana Del Rey's sleepy voice makes it feel real. Also, the lyrics are just genius. 

"Heads will roll" by Yeah Yeah Yeahs. The title of this song makes a reference to the act of beheading, so yeah, enough said. Plus it's super cool.

"Sweet Transvestite" by The Rocky Horror Picture Show. I love this song, and Tim Curry is just such a great performer. It's my favorite song from the classic movie, so it's up here. 

"Superstition" by Stevie Wonder, another no-brainer. This song is just pure awesome all the way through. Superstition has a lot to do with scary things, so yeah. 

"Disturbia" by Rihanna. This song speaks about losing your mind which is really one of humanity's worst fears. And, the video is just weird, which in this case's a good thing!

"The Addams Family Theme". I don't think there's someone above the age of 13 who doesn't know where this song is from. Is plain fun family-related fun!

"Witchy Woman" by Eagles. This song is really great, and AGAIN it's another song about witches. When you combine horror with rock, there is just so much win!

"Highway to Hell" by AC/DC. I know this has (almost) nothing to do with Halloween but it's AC/DC and it has the word "Hell" in it. That's enough for me. 

"Oh Death" by Jen Titus. This song is featured in one of my favorite TV shows; SUPERNATURAL. I love Supernatural and the song is scary. A part of the lyrics says : "Nothing satisfies me but your soul...". SCARY!

"Phantom Of the Opera Theme" by Emmy Rossum and Gerard Butler. I like this song so so so much. The intro part is the best! Suspense all over. I like the movie version, the actors happen to be really good singers!

"Psycho Theme" from the Albert Hitchcock movie. This is the most classic horror song EVER. Everyone relates to it when something scary happens. 20 missed calls from mom???!!! *ENTER PSYCHO THEME* 

All these songs make up my Halloween Playlist. What did you think? Creepy enough? CAN'T WAIT FOR TOMORROW!!!!!! 

*kisskiss* - Adrienne. 

Halloween Costume Update.

HALLOWEEN IS LITERALLY JUST AROUND THE CORNER PEOPLE! And I don't think I could be more excited. This is my favorite holiday, and I always have to get completely into it! That involves me eating candy like crazy, watching horror movies/tv shows, and making up Halloween playlists! (New post idea! Shhh!)

Back to the costume part, I DID get invited to a party this Halloween. Which is great, because I would've worn my costume here at home anyway, I guess. That's how much I love Halloween. I had a few options that were bouncing around my brain for months! But I finally decided on the best costume I think.

A 1950s party girl! In my opinion, the fifties were a decade filled with so much glamour, I just can't ignore it! Halloween is the ONE night you can dress up as anything you want and I really want to look like Ava Gardner or some goddess of the fifties! A friend asked me if I was going as a 1950s pin-up girl, and though it is similar, it's not the same thing. This is the pin-up girl.

Pin-Up Girl

Although it is a nice idea for a Halloween costume, I will not be going as this to the party. I chose the other "50s girl/lady" version. The glam one. The Silver Screen diva one. I just love it. 

Ava Gardner

                                                                                                                                                                Ava Gardner was so amazingly beautiful. I'd be stupid to not look for inspiration in pictures of her. She ALWAYS looked so elegant and sensuous, without being tacky! 

I already have most of my costume. A full golden skirt with a simple black top, beneath a faux fur black coat. A pair of satin black elbow-length gloves and a magnificent 1950s hair do! Oh, and I almost forgot my pair of black pointed heels! 

I am already so excited! I can hardly wait! 

What are you dressing up for Halloween? 

*kisskiss* - Adrienne. 

Condé Nast Cancels Internship Programs.

There is, I think, only one word for this. UPSETTING. I honestly felt like fainting when I found out. Seriously this is going to affect the industry in some MAJOR ways. As a person who strives to work in the fashion industry in the near future, and by the way, considers internships to be an excellent way to learn from the inside, I think this is terrible news.
So apparently, after a couple of lawsuits involving what the plaintiffs are calling "under paid jobs", Condé Nast Publications decided to actually stop giving us other people the opportunity of interning at their magazines and papers. I really think that if these people weren't happy with the amount they were being paid, they should have just quit. Seriously. That's kind of the point of internships; working your butt off in exchange for experience. Learning that hard work pays off. Some internships pay, some don't. I really don't think it was necessary to sue anyone. Now all kinds of media companies are deciding that internships are no longer needed.
God. For so long, interns are the ones who do jobs no other people want. Like filing documents, fetching coffee and other tasks that, believe it or not, are important. The fashion industry is such a HUGE business that without the people who are willing to do all these things, I am not really sure how this is gonna turn out to be a positive thing.
Anyway, I simply would like publicity companies to RECONSIDER this issue, and see that we all lose in the outcome.

Tolerance Towards What You Don't Understand.

There's always been stigmas about different kinds of situations in the world, which unfortunately not all of us can relate to and understand. I believe that many times, we judge what is unknown to us and somehow different. This a very common and sad human mistake. We fear what we don't know, and in turn, are judgmental and cruel towards others. 

I think the solution to most of these stigmas and the way to remove most of them, is to inform people about the reality that is happening daily. 

Three years ago, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. I've had difficult times since then, but most of all, I've been able to understand that more than a "curse" (as I've witnessed other people call it) it is a gift. I'm not gonna lie, it is an illness which should be taken very seriously. And I've suffered so much because of it. But now that I've gotten used to it, and with the right treatment, I am grateful of who I am. I like how it sparks some sort of creativity which other people most of the time don't see. It definitely comes with pros and cons. But if you learn how to control it, there are a lot more pros than there are cons. 

Something that continues to amaze me, is that mental illnesses receive a lot of negative attention. And I don't blame people for it, they just don't know that they're poorly informed. There are a LOT of facts that would surprise people if they just wanted to learn a bit more. For example, 1 in 100 of people in the world suffer from Bipolar Disorder. And I've met so many people who I can sense have some kind of undiagnosed mental disorder and go about life thinking that they're only problem is that they have "terrible tempers" or were a "trouble child". This is something that affects the world and society GREATLY. A mental illness is as important as a physical one. It should be given the same level of importance as any other illness there is.

I am glad, however, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel which is beginning to become visible. A "silver lining" should we call it. People are starting to become aware of this situation and are taking a stand for it. 
Speaking of "silver linings", I very much enjoyed the movie starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence and Robert De Niro among others. Silver Linings Playbook. Such an amazing film, it explores the real issues that revolve around mental health patients, and it is portrayed in such a comedic yet realistic way (speaking as a mental health patient). It makes you realize how common these disorders are, and how severe of a problem it is that we are overlooking something that can be solved and treated. 

I remember an interview in which Jennifer Lawrence (one of my favorite actresses, by the way) gave when she won the Oscar for the movie. I felt so good to see that people were starting to be understanding of this. People like Jennifer are really starting to give hope to this situation and there's nothing that makes me happier. I remember she said:

"I don't think we're going to stop until we get rid of the stigma for mental illness," 

she said.

 "I know [director] David O Russell won't, and I hope that this helps.

"It's just so bizarre how in this world if you have asthma, you take asthma 

medication. If you have diabetes, you take diabetes medication. But as soon as you 

have to take medicine for your mind, it's such a stigma behind it."

It makes me so glad that someone as famous and glamorous as Jennifer Lawrence decides to address this issue. And bring light to something that needs social understanding. Apparently, Jennifer is not the only celebrity who thinks this is something we (as a society) should work on. Bradley Cooper, has joined Former Rhode Island Rep. Patrick Kennedy and Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow in on a cause to find a brighter side to those suffering of mental health issues. 

People should be able to stop for a moment and recognize that someone close to them or they in fact may be suffering from a mental condition. Speaking of experience, it is SO much better when they do recognize it. It is a joy that in this advanced and modern world, there are so many opportunities for everyone. It IS possible to get treatment and to live a better life. Trust me. 

Trivia: did you know these famous have/had bipolar disorder? And look at them (the ones who fortunately found treatment, of course), they are successful and happy! 

- Mel Gibson
- Ernest Hemingway
- Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy
- Vivien Leigh
- Abraham Lincoln
- Demi Lovato
- Marilyn Monroe
- Friedrich Nietzche
- Edgar Allan Poe
- Axl Rose
- Frank Sinatra
- Jack Irons
- Kurt Cobain
- Russell Brand
- Rose Mary Clooney
- Carrie Fisher
- Vincent Van Gogh
- Catherine Zeta-Jones
- Sinead O'Connor
- Jim Carrey

*Note: some of these people are thought to suffer from / have suffered bipolar disorder by diagnoses made by psychiatrists, public statements are not included in all cases. 

Remember: 

Do you know anyone who suffers from any kind of mental disorder? Do you think you should seek treatment? Share your stories. 

*kisskiss* - Adrienne. 

Outfits Inspired By My Favorite Literary Characters (Part II)

I considered changing the name of this post series, because to me as much as it is outfits that are inspired by my favorite characters, when I'm coming up with these outfits I actually picture the characters wearing the clothes. In my mind, these are more or less the outfits that I imagine them in.

Last time I did Violet and Sunny Baudelaire from Lemony Snicket's A Series Of Unfortunate Events. This time, I'm writing about my top three female characters from the Harry Potter saga. These particular ladies, are my favorites because I relate a lot to them. Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood and of course Hermione Granger.

I see a LOT of myself in Ginny. People who haven't read the books and have only seen the movies, don't always grasp this concept of her. But Ginny is a really funny girl. She's upbeat and she has a very uncanny way of imitating others. She has a sharp sense of humor and knows how to stand up for herself and others, in other words, she doesn't take crap from anyone. She's also very strong and feels comfortable with the guys (as friends) because of her growing up with her brothers. And last but not least, SHE LOVES CATS! I myself posses all these qualities (wow, that sounded stuck up!), so naturally she's high on my list!

Ginny Weasley

Ginny is described as being laid-back, down-to-Earth and like I said before, she's upbeat. So, I chose a simple white Oxford style shirt which I layered beneath a very cute polka dotted, navy sweater from American Eagle. I added a pair of corduroy pants in a nice burgundy color for contrast. Navy + burgundy = perfection! A pair of Converse tennis shoes because you know, she's the tiniest bit of a tomboy sometimes! I thought that I would also add these kitten-shape earrings because they represent her love for cats and they were too darn adorable to ignore! Oh, and the broomstick is a Firebolt, I don't know if Ginny ever owned a Firebolt but I do know Quidditch was a HUGE part of Ginny's life. She ended up playing professionally for the Holyhead Harpies, you know!

Luna Lovegood is an unusual girl. She's dreamy, always says weird stuff which not everyone around her understands, and happens to love anything that is different or a minority. She also seems to be right most of the time, by the way (again, I sounded stuck up)! This is a HUGE resemblance in personality which I share with Luna. To the point to which people in high school would call me "Luna" because I reminded them of her. I never took it as an insult. I like being a little crazy, within reason of course! Luna has always been the "odd one" in the group, but this never seems to bother her. I like that about her and can completely relate.

Luna Lovegood

Luna has a uniqueness that just makes you love her. She's sweet but she also has that side to her which shows she's wise. I think that she would definitely translate that into the way she dresses. So I picked out a pair of gold, sequined shorts which I consider no one else but someone like her would wear to school. A nice, soft pink sweater with a bunny picture on it, because Luna's Patronus is a hare. White creamy tights to keep herself warm and a pair of pink Hunter's rain boots for walking in the puddles around the Forbidden Forest. I added a gold, sleek bracelet with a moon-shaped charm. It's a moon because Luna means Moon in Spanish (my native language, ha!). I HAD to tag along a copy of The Quibbler, and OF COURSE, her spectrespecs!

Hermione Granger is perhaps the one of the three girls which most people relate to. But, I do think I resemble her in many ways. Hermione is an extremely clever girl. She's highly logical and when she puts her mind to it, can solve ANYTHING. She's a hard worker too. I do consider myself smart, but the one thing I love about Hermione and see mostly in myself is that she is a very loyal and true friend. She also has a big heart; many times Hermione loves too much. Which is why I think she winds up crying in so many chapters through the books. She is sensitive and expresses her feelings while being strong for her loved ones. Not only is she intelligent, she has a rather tender heart, and that is one of best things a person can have.

Hermione Granger

For Hermione, I decided I would take the classy/preppy route when it comes to style. I personally love this look for her. A cashmere, white sweater with a peplum accent for the top. And a pair of mint-green skinny jeans for the bottom part. For her shoes, I chose a pair of tan colored oxfords, which give the rest of the outfit a library-esque feel. As Hermione infamously spends much of her time in the library. Pearl stud earrings (CLASSY!) and I thought it'd be nice that she'd be sporting her Time Turner around her neck! Hermione is nothing without her books, AND her first real ginger sweetheart (cough, cough not Ron!) CROOKSHANKS!

I personally had so much fun writing this post, maybe because I'm fond of both the characters/series AND fashion! Did you like the outfits I came up with? Which Harry Potter character is your favorite? What other characters would you like to see in these posts?

*kisskiss* - Adrienne.

Halloween Costumes.

I have a few vague ideas of what I would like to be for Halloween. But I really don't want to put much effort into it. My few ideas, are the following:

1. Hogwarts student (preferably from Hufflepuff), I LOVE Harry Potter and I  think it'd be nice  to feel like a part of his universe for at least one night.
2. Snow White, everybody tells me I look exactly like her. The princess I mean. White skin and dark hair. I like looking like her, and lately I've been rocking my red lipstick looks, so I might try it out Disney-style. 
3. Blair Waldorf, I'm a HUGE Gossip Girl fan, and not that Blair is my favorite character. No wait, she totally is. Along with Serena of course. So, maybe this will be the Halloween I actually decide to sport a headband and a private school uniform with heels?
4. Some character from a famous pop culture movie or TV show. Maybe the dead cheerleader from American Horror Story? Or even Violet Harmon? I don't know, something original. But that I can easily explain to people who I am supposed to be. 

Got any ideas? I really need to decide what I want to be for Halloween. Even though I haven't been invited to a party for it yet, haha. So that's got to happen first I guess. 

Last year I did attend a party though, and a friend and I decided we'd go as bath puffs. It was a cute costume, we got a lot of nice remarks about it. 

I'm the one on the left, btw.

I could always go Trick or Treating, joke! Anyway, I will post whatever I decide to go as. 

*kisskiss* - Adrienne. 

Essential Beauty Products Part II.

As my first post explains everything about a few beauty products that have proved to be completely trust-worthy and seem to suit me well, I am writing this next post as kind of a next chapter on what I call : "Essential Beauty Products". Part one speaks mostly about hair care items and fragrances, whereas this post will include all my daily makeup must-haves. I consider myself to be a person who follows routines quite often, and I really hate being taken by surprise. I like to be ready for what may come and this way, I know which (beauty) routines work best for me and my schedule. 

1. Revlon Photo Ready Liquid Foundation in Shell. 

I remember the first foundation I ever felt that was closer to my needs, Mary Kay in Ivory 200. It comes at a great price, goes on really smoothly, and actually fits my skin tone! The thing was, that when I ran out of this miraculous foundation, I was unable to buy it again immediately. So, I searched for similar tones in this AMAZING website called findation.com (you type in the brand and tone of the foundation which suits you best, and it gives you similar results in other brands)and got a lot of different results. I took a trip to my local Wal - Mart and bought this little guy (Revlon). Somehow, I always find that most foundations disappoint in some way or another. But being that this is the first time I've tried it, it has proven itself to be of great quality. It also glides on really smoothly and doesn't feel heavy on my skin at all. This is currently the one I'm using, but I think both the Revlon and the Mary Kay one fit me perfectly. 

2. MAC Cosmetics Full Lash Curler. 

Ok, I used to be the kind of girl who didn't buy into the hype of overestimated products. But this right here, yeah, this made me a believer. My friends, sister and cousins laugh at me all the time because I spent 20 dollars on this eyelash curler when supposedly "they all work the same...". This is probably the biggest misconception there is in the beauty world. News flash, it does make a difference. I really don't know what it is, but I'm not gonna question a good thing. So when all the other girls get "L" shaped eyelashes, I'm the one getting the last laugh.

3. MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder in C3. 

As I've mentioned before, I don't really have a lot of skin problems and acne's never been a real issue. So I find that putting on foundation and then setting it with this pressed powder usually does the trick. I love that it gives me an even skin color and contributes to a porcelain-like look. 

4. NARS blush in Orgasm. 

I had read such good reviews about this blush, that a few months ago I finally decided to try it out. I don't usually put much on, but it does give my cheeks a healthy glow. It's said to fit EVERY skin tone. Now, I don't know if this is true but it certainly does look good on mine. It's a peachy pink color with little gold highlights, and I have noticed it lasts a long time! No need to reapply this one! 

5. L'oreal Mascara Extension Tubes.

I discovered this mascara a few years back, and haven't been able to let it go. This thing right here, is the best. It's made up of two steps, although to be honest I only use the second one. But really, it works really well. It creates a sort of fake eyelashes look, and the best part I think, is that it doesn't smudge! At night, you need only rub some warm water against your lashes, and it will come right off. It doesn't leave that annoying black line around your eyes afterwards.  

6. MAC Cosmetics Satin Lipstick in Red. 

When I was younger I usually only wore lip gloss. I didn't really pay attention to lipstick much. But as I'm older now, I have developed a liking for it. My favorite color, will always be classic and bright red. This one from MAC is really good, because it goes on very smoothly. There is however, need to reapply after a few hours. But it's close to perfection. I think this fall and winter I will mix it up a little and start wearing darker shades, though. Like burgundy or plum. 

7. Benefit Coralista Gloss. 

This lip gloss, is part of a kit I bought in Sephora, which comes along with highlighter, blush and lip stain. It's really small, but it's lasted up until now (I bought it a year ago) and I think the soft color is adorable. I normally take it out of the kit and carry it in my purse. I'm really considering buying it in it's original size and trying out their other colors. The texture is pretty nice, it's not gooey at all. Benefit is a very cool brand (how awesome are their packages?!)and I think I may be falling in love with it. 

This makes the second part of my "Essential Beauty Products". These are normally the items I use daily, and that have proven to be infallible. Which are some of yours? Have you tried these products before? See you next time!

*kisskiss* - Adrienne. 

Outfits Inspired by my favorite literary characters. (Part I)

Firstly, I need to be honest and say that I got the idea of "Outfits Inspired By..." from collegefashion.net. They do such great fashion inspirations that I thought I would try it out. I am a complete book worm. I can get totally lost in the story of a book that the hours just fly by. I just love it. I have a lot of favorite literary characters, and most of them are fictional. Anyhow, I thought I would start off with two of my favorite ones from the Lemony Snicket books. A Series Of Unfortunate Events. For those of you who've never read the books, I HIGHLY recommend them. The series follows the three Baudelaire orphans, who after losing their parents and home in a mysterious fire, have to be sent to live with various strange guardians. There was a movie based on the books, which came out in 2004. I saw the movie, fell in love with it and on my next trip to the bookstore, bought the continuing books. I bought the books 4, 5 and 6 (because the movie is based on the books 1, 2 and 3). And continued reading as I purchased the next books from the series. Two of my favorite characters from the books are pretty obvious; Violet Baudelaire and her baby sister Sunny Baudelaire. As well as in Harry Potter, I have A LOT of favorite characters in this series of books. I just think these two lovable characters make it so appealing to take fashion inspiration from.

First is Violet Baudelaire. She's the eldest of the Baudelaire children and is described as an incredibly talented inventor. She always has a solution for any tough situation she and her siblings find themselves in. She's fourteen at the beginning of the books and when she's coming up with a new invention, ties her hair up with a ribbon (to keep it out of her eyes). 

I think Violet's personality is very mature for her age, she has openly stated that she hates the color pink and she's also very protective of her brother and sister. As her other two siblings, she's polite and educated and has a very quick mind.

Violet Baudelaire Inspiration

I think this Valentino dress fits Violet's personality perfectly. It's black, but not to the point that it looks goth. I actually looks elegant and sophisticated, without breaking the theme of the books. It has an embroidered collar, with matching cuffs. For the tights, I chose simple lace ones because (again) they're elegant and look chic. Also, they go hand in hand with the theme of the series. A pair of suede Chloe flats in plum (which kind of look like a little more of a red wine color to me...) and finally, the finishing touch; a silk ribbon in her hair. When I picture Violet in my mind, this is really and example of how she would be dressed. Simple, timeless and completely elegant. Here's Violet in the books' illustrations (left) and in the movie (right).

  

                                                                                           

Sunny Baudelaire, is the youngest of the three Baudelaire children. She's an infant at the time the books take place, and expresses herself with her own made up words that only her siblings can understand. She is said to have a liking to bite things (probably because of her baby teeth) and later in the series develops a talent for cooking meals. Sunny has a little more brighter personality than her sister Violet, I assume this is because she's still very young. But as her brother and sister, is educated and polite, too. 

Sunny Baudelaire Inspiration

Because Sunny is practically a baby, I think this light blue dress from Dorothy Perkins fits her well. I chose a Peter Pan style collar because in the books, Sunny's dresses always have one around her neck. Creamy white tights and a pair of simple ballerina flats in a beige tone. I finished the look off with a ribbon for her hair, as in the books, she is also always shown to wear one. This look is simple, and not as elegant as Violet's outfit, although in it's simplicity it shows that Sunny is still very young and has that innocence one has as a baby. It's feminine without being ridiculous or having pinkish tones, and brings to the table exactly what Sunny brings to the series; a light and easy feel in contrast to all the gloominess. 

Here is Sunny in the books (left) and in the movie (right). Adorable baby girl. 

                                                      

For now, this are the two looks I have come up with. I enjoy doing "outfit inspirations" and think I will do a lot more of them. What do you think about the way I displayed Violet and Sunny's personalities through clothing? Did I get it right, or would you change something? 

*kisskiss* - Adrienne. 

Essential Beauty Products Part I.

I consider myself a bit of a "list freak". I LOVE making lists. For everything; to do lists, checklists, favorite things lists, any kind of lists really. So in this post I decided to make a list of a few beauty products that have been my favorite ones for some time now. I use these items daily and I can honestly say that I find them to be quite fulfilling. This is of course, as the title says, the first part, but I hope to be writing more of these posts. The list is the following...

1. L’oreal Elvive 5 Full Restore: As a person with extremely sensitive hair and skin, I always need to have some kind of hydrating product for either one of them. Mostly both. This hair masque is really what dreams are made of. I discovered it when I was sick of having lifeless looking hair after I stupidly got a perm. It really dried out my locks. But after using this “conditioner” AND getting monthly hair cuts, it really has returned to it’s shiny, healthy state. 

2. Thierry Mugler’s Angel: Ok, so this has officially become my personal scent. I first encountered it when my older cousin helped me get ready for one of my first teenage parties. I was so excited, she was the coolest. When I was running out the door, she sprayed some of this wonderful perfume on me. She also said it was a great aphrodisiac, but ANYWAY, it really has the best smell. I haven’t stopped buying it ever since. It has the richest, classiest scent, I just love it. Also, most of the versions come in “refillable” bottles which you can get refilled at your local Macy’s. 

3. Sally Hansen’s Airbrush Legs In Light For Fair Skin Tones: I am pale to the point to which people even make jokes about “how white I am”, it does get a little insulting. So naturally, for me this is probably one of the best inventions in the beauty world so far. No, really. It honestly should be on top of everyone’s list. It says on the label it’s to be used on legs. But as the rebellious gal that I am, I tested how it would work on my whole body. Well, just the parts that are usually exposed. And the results I got were pretty decent, it gave me this awesome golden tan without looking ridiculously orange. And it really is easy to apply (you spray it on), also, it doesn’t just give me a nice glow but it also evens out my skin color. No more red patches!

4. Herbal Essences Shampoo: I think I don’t have to indicate how important smelling nice is to me anymore, but Herbal Essences shampoos (and conditioners) really smell like what they promise to. They all have different types of fresh and fruity smells, and I can’t decide which one I like the most. So I alternate between all of them. Also, they leave your hair feeling really soft. So that’s a plus. 

5. Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash: I’ve never really had a problem with acne. Not even as a teen. But I do like to prevent getting the occasional zit fest on my face. It usually only happens when I have high hormonal levels, or skip a step on my facial cleansing routine. This Neutrogena facial wash is gentle to my sensitive skin and is oil free, which is something I normally look for in products I use on my face. I find that washing my face while taking a shower is better for me because of my schedule, but this tends to be different from person to person. 

6. TRESemmé Heat Tamer Protective Spray: I bought this a long while ago, and I had never used it much. I used to never straighten my hair or curl it for that matter. But now I've kind of gotten used to styling it one way or another. This spray assures me that through everything my hair has gone through in the last few years, it will still maintain it’s newly restored shine. I wouldn't be so keen on heat styling if this thing didn't exist. 

7. Maybelline Baby Lips Lip balm: I've always been a big fan of any kind of lip product. Lip gloss, lip balm, lipstick, lip liner- you name it, I have one of some sort. So when Maybelline introduced these little guys on the market, I was stoked. They looked so cute and came in pretty colors. Needless to say, when I tried them out, I loved them. I bought three! They do repair lips and give them a soft feel. I usually use the peach and transparent ones, because I normally put in on at night before getting in bed (who would like lip stains on their pillow?) And the next day I wake up with, well…BABY LIPS! Haha.

*kisskiss*, Adrienne.

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