February Finds

Happy Monday! Hope everyone had a lovely weekend and a nice Valentine's Day. <3

Today's blog post is about some really unique items I recently acquired. 

Since Valentine's Day was yesterday, we will start with an adorable vintage find! One of my favorite vintage shops is Leah's Closet in Royal Oak. Leah is a good friend and I love going to her for unique pieces to add to my wardrobe and collection. A few weeks ago, I stopped by to say hello and found myself staring at a pair of red lips. I had seen it before, but this time I decided to take a closer look. I had originally thought it was there for decoration, but learned it was a jewelry box...something I had just been saying I needed. The best part about it is that it's portable and can easily fit in a suitcase.


How cute is this?

I absolutely love it!

If you live in the area and haven't checked this shop out, you definitely should. Tell her TheZenFashionista sent you. :)




A Saks off Fifth opened up recently near me and I went to check it out. I was excited when I saw Betsey Johnson purses. The brand is known for its statement pieces. Some of the purses that you can find at Saks off Fifth are still being sold on the official Betsey Johnson website and places like Macy's and Belk for full price.


Here are the two styles I now have:


In a Jiff Popcorn Crossbody

Fancy Face Chain-Strap Shoulder Bag

They also had a perfume bottle and pizza shaped bags, among numerous other styles.



Lastly, if you follow fashion closely like I do, you may be familiar with Karl Lagerfeld and the popular charms for purses that Fendi sells. Known as the "Karlito" Bag Bug, they retail for almost $2000. I met a sweetheart of a lady on Etsy named Nicole who sells a similar product for $20-$30. She will personalize the bag charm with your color preference, and also does customized orders on other bag charms you might want, such as Star Wars characters which you'll see on her page. I bought one as a gift for my best friend. Below you will find two different "Karlito" styles.

Nicole's Etsy Shop


What is your favorite statement piece? Leave me a comment below.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to email me at TheZenFashionista@Gmail.Com :)

If you would like to subscribe to my blog, I would really appreciate it! You can comment your email below or give it to me personally.

Until next time,
XOXOTheZenFashionista

Creating a Gratitude Journal

Happy Monday! Hope everyone had a nice weekend. :)

This week I am writing about creating a gratitude/goal setting journal. You'll find, that over time this is something I will continuously blog about. To read my post that discussed the importance of gratitude and ways to show it in your life, click here. 

When I was about thirteen, a mentor of mine suggested that I start writing positive things about myself and what I was grateful for each day. Before going to sleep, I would write what I liked about myself...my strengths, talents and skills. I jotted down my daily accomplishments, and the reasons I was grateful. I had learned mindfulness at a young age!

Studies have shown, people who express gratitude are happier people. When I'm going through a rough patch, I find that it is the hardest to write about positive things; but that's when you need it most. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness impacts the way you think and will improve your well being in some way. 

When we face a hardship, or a challenge arises in our life, we can still find ways to be grateful. For me, I've learned lessons about trust and the need for setting up boundaries. Turn the negative into a positive - I intend on writing a blog post on reframing and reshaping ones thoughts in the near future. 

Your diary is a place where you can vent. This journal is unique, because it's going to help manifest wonderful things for yourself!

Here are some of the benefits associated with keeping a gratitude/goal journal:

Self awareness - Discover more about yourself

Better health - Toxic emotions are reduced and happiness levels are increased. Immune system is stronger because you are less stressed and more optimistic 

Self Esteem - A boost in your self esteem makes sense if you are writing what you love about yourself...right? 

We live in such a fast paced world, that we take things for granted. Wouldn't it be nice to slow down for a few minutes and appreciate the good things in our life?

I'm going to challenge you to keep a journal for the next thirty days. I believe it takes about two months for something to become a habit. I invite you to expand the length of this challenge, if you so see fit. 

So, how are you going to create your journal?

First, find a notebook or journal that speaks to you. Maybe it's one with a funky pattern or a plain one that you decide to decorate.

Keep in mind, there is not a wrong way to do this. Your approach may be different than someone else's and that's ok. What works for some, might not work for others. Find what you respond best to. 

Some start their day by writing in their journal, while others prefer to do so before bed...Don't limit yourself. If you are out and about and something comes to you, write it down! 

One day you may write five things you're grateful for; another day you could have a list of ten. It isn't about the quantity. Your goal is just to write something each day. 

Lists are great but also feel free to elaborate on why you're grateful. 

Depending on how you choose to express yourself, you may want to draw a picture. Be creative. This is your special journal. 

I will admit, when I first started this process, there were days where it seemed like a chore. I came to realize small things counted...I didn't need to over analyze. Starting a journal where I wrote what I was grateful for and the things I accomplished during the week, set me on a journey of self discovery. Who was judging? Me? If I couldn't be open with myself, then who could I really be honest with? 

I invite you to not only write down what you are grateful for but to include other things as well....

Write down your goals for the day or for the week 

When we physically handwrite our goals out, it's as if we are planting a seed, setting something in motion. 

What were your accomplishments?

Did you finish that assignment? Were you able to get more sleep during the week? Did you clean the bathroom?

Jot down what you like about yourself 

Do you like your eyes? That you're a compassionate person?

A quote that inspires and motivates you

When I'm feeling uninspired, I like to find a positive quote and then journal about the meaning and how I can apply it to my own life. 

It's important to set an intent as well. I found writing it on the inside cover was a good place for mine. Your intent can be as simple as, "I set the intent to be consciously grateful."

Review your journal each month or when you're having a bad day. You've begun to create new neural pathways which will trigger positive emotions.   

I have friends who find meditation to be too difficult for them. If that's the case, then why not try this? This is a a type of mediation because it relaxes and calms the mind. It grounds you when you are journaling about the positives in your life. 

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or email me at TheZenFashionista@Gmail.Com 

What are three things you're grateful for today?

Have a wonderful week!

Until next time,

XoxoTheZenFashionista

Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Makeup Review

I'm always looking for natural beauty products to add to my daily regimen. Most of the products I use are vegan/cruelty free, but even those products can still contain chemicals and unnecessary ingredients. I recently came across Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques and was pleased to see they sold sample sizes of all of their makeup so that you could try them and see what works best for you. I was able to buy foundation in more than one color, a couple of eye shadows, all of their highlighters, and a lip glaze. 

Foundation:

We'll start with foundation. They sell creme, powder and pressed. I went with a creme and two pressed foundations.  Personally, I wasn't too impressed with the pressed foundation, though it did say it was light to medium coverage, but their creme foundation is my new favorite. 

I chose "Natural No. 00"  

Pros: 

Doesn't look caked on

Doesn't feel heavy 

Made with natural ingredients such as Organic Argan Oil, Green Tea Extract, and Zinc Oxide

Comes in over 20 shades

28 SPF

I also found that it had a fresh, dewy look and for being so lightweight, had nice coverage. A little goes a long way! :)

The only "con" I could come up with is that once you blend it, it takes a couple of minutes to in a sense "set."

It lasted me the whole day. I did have to blot once near the end of my day but only in a couple of places. 

The sample size is available for $1.50, and the full size for $27.00. 

I'm planning on trying their powder foundation. They were out of my shade in the sample size, when I purchased the others. 

It's recommended to put the foundation on with a blending sponge, but I used my Urban Decay foundation brush and it worked great. 

Eyeshadow:

Like the foundation, their eyeshadow comes in multiple types. They have pressed, powder, and creme eyeshadow. I had been hesitant to try the creme, because in the past I hadn't been impressed with the creme eyeshadows I tried. I ended up getting sample sizes of two of their creme eyeshadows.

I chose these colors:

Plum Fairy (Matte Finish)

Wisteria (Shimmer)

Pros:

Comes in a variety of colors in a matte or shimmer finish

Easy to apply

With primer, was long lasting 

Made with natural ingredients such as Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, and Coconut Oil extract

It's suggested on their website to use the matte shades alone as a contour shade or underneath a loose powder. 

I personally used both of these alone, for a more subtle,  natural look and I really loved them. 

The sample size is available for $1.50, and the full size for $9.00. 

Highlighter:

They have three different highlighters (in warm, neutral and cool shades), I decided to try all three. I've really liked all of them, but my favorite is Brilliance. 

I usually use a powder highlighter from NYX or It Cosmetics. I also recently tried the L'Oréal Magic Lumi Highlighter Pen. 

Pros:

Nice moisturizing feel

Blends well

Great glow

Made with natural ingredients such as Rosehip Oil, Argan Oil, Beeswax and Organic Neem

I can't wait until the full size highlighter gets here, because I absolutely love it and it now will definitely be a part of my every day makeup routine. 

The sample size is available for $1.50, and the full size for $9.50. 

ColourFusion Lip Glaze:

They ended up sending me a free sample of one of their ColourFusion Lip Glazes. It was the Strawberries and Cream one. It gave me a hint of color and left my lips feeling extremely moisturized and soft.

Overall, I'm really happy with my makeup from Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques. More companies should take notice and offer sample sizes of their products. Besides the samples I tried, they also sell skincare products (facial serum, eye makeup remover), blush, lip colors, and makeup applicators. You should definitely check out their products. Especially if you're into natural cosmetics. 

And if you click this link to their website, you can get 10% off your order! At checkout enter the code, "THEZENFASHIONISTA" 

http://www.laurenbrookecosmetiques.com/#_a_THEZENFASHIONISTA

I also plan to purchase their Coffee Scrub and compare it to the one I currently use (Frank Body). 

Let me know if you buy anything from Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques. I'd love to hear your feedback on what you think of the products. 

If you would like to follow my blog, all you have to do is go the top right hand corner of the page and type in your email. If you're on a mobile device, change to the desktop/web version. 

You can also just give me your email, and I'll sign you up myself. :)  

I would really appreciate it!

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below, or email me at TheZenFashionista@Gmail.com 

Until Next Time,

XOXOTheZenFashionista

P.S. Make sure to use the code "THEZENFASHIONISTA" at checkout to get 10% off your order and to click the link above. :)

Five Winter 2016 Must Haves

Winter isn't over just yet...Here are some must have items to add to your wardrobe. I personally have two of the below pieces and provided pictures. :)
Click the individual links to be directed to the product!

1. LAURA BUCKLE DETAIL DOUBLE LAYER CAPE

I've been wanting a cape coat for a long time. I saw this and knew I had to make this coat mine! Boohoo is one of my favorite places to shop online. They are located in the UK, and have affordable, trendy and well made clothing that they ship all around the world. They even offer free shipping if you spend $50.00. Regularly they'll have a discount code featured on their website, usually between 20-30% off regular and sale priced merchandise. This cape coat retails for $72.00 and is on sale for $54.00. Currently, their 30% off code does not include sale items, but check back in a few days and they'll have a new discount available. I ended up getting 30% off last month and that brought my total down to less than $40....Quite the deal!

2. TOMMY HILFIGER GERRIE OVER THE KNEE BOOT

I love suede...The look...The feel...Everything. And over the knee boots will always be a staple for your wardrobe. 

These Tommy Hilifger boots are super cute! The inside has a nice, red fabric lining and the outside has stud embellishments on one side and a a zipper that goes about halfway up on the other. The best part about these boots is that they are very comfortable and have a 1.5 inch stacked block heel. So you get some added height and comfort!

3. Batteries Not Included Chain Bag 

Originally, $48.00, this purse is on sale for $33.60 (30% off). If you love video games, this is a cute accessory to be walking around with. It's definitely unique and a statement piece. 

4. AEO Fringe Open Cardigan

Everything I buy from American Eagle, I end up loving so much that I want to wear it every day. I was looking at their website and saw this adorable cardigan on clearance. Normally, $69.95, this can be yours for only $25.99. They are almost sold out of the heather grey...but it also comes in a pretty cream color. 

5. MID-RISE POWER SKINNY IN MYSTEEK WASH

Guess is having a big sale right now and I found these jeans that are normally, $128.00. You can get them for only $39.00! I love sparkly anything...so I am really considering buying these.

What has been your go to clothing item to wear this winter?

If you would like to follow my blog, all you have to do is go the top right hand corner of the page and type in your email. If you're on a mobile device, change to the desktop/web version. 

You can also just give me your email, and I'll sign you up myself. :)  

I would really appreciate it!

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below, or email me at TheZenFashionista@Gmail.com 

Until Next Time,
XOXOTheZenFashionista

Netflix and Chilly Outside

Hi everyone! It's hard to believe we are already halfway through January! Sorry there wasn't a blog post last week, I was under the weather. 

Since, it's currently under 15 degrees, I'm snuggled under a blanket scrolling through Netflix. I know a lot of people are always looking for something new to watch, especially during the colder months when we are trying to stay warm....so that inspired me to make a blog post with some recommendations! 

When I watch TV, it's usually because I want to relax. So below you will find comedies and dramas. I don't watch too many action based or "scary" shows. Every now and then I will watch Law and Order SVU though... :P

Netflix Recommendations: 

 

Grace and Frankie -

This show is a Netflix original and stars Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. How could this show not be a hit? I admit to binge watching the first season in a day and a half. The series starts off with two women in their seventies finding out that both of their husbands are leaving them- for each other.  It also stars Martin Sheen, Sam Waterston, and Brooklyn Decker. The second season is being released in May. I highly recommend giving this show a shot. 

The Carrie Diaries -

This one is for my fashion and Sex in the City friends. If you haven't already seen this show, you definitely should. The Carrie Diaries is a prequel to the TV series, Sex and the City and also is a book series. The plot is a young Carrie Bradshaw in the 1980's navigating high school as well as making her dreams of New York a reality. I'm currently watching this show over. 

Fuller House -

For those of you who haven't heard, Netflix has come up with a spin off/reboot of Full House. It'll premiere on Netflix at the end of February. Most of the cast will be returning. I'm pretty excited for this! 

Oldest of the Tanner girls, D.J. is now a mother of three and a widow. It becomes too much for her to handle, so she requests the help of her best friend Kimmy Gibbler and sister Stephanie. 

Jane The Virgin -

I initially wasn't sure I would like this show. I thought it was a little cheesy, but I soon got addicted. The series has been nominated for many awards and has a really great cast. Season one is currently available on Netflix while season two is airing on The CW.  Taking place in Miami, the show follows the life of a young Latina, Jane who is a waitress at a hotel. She's saving herself for marriage, but during a doctor appointment is mistakenly artificially inseminated. You can only imagine the chaos that ensues. 

Young and Hungry -

Young and Hungry is set in San Francisco. The main character Gabi is a food blogger who is hired to work as the personal chef to a wealthy, young entrepreneur. This show is a great fast pace comedic sitcom. Emily Osment and Kym Whitley are among the cast. 

What is your favorite show currently? And any Netflix recommendations for me? Leave a comment below.  

Until next time!

XoxoTheZenFashionista

Hosting a "Create Your Own" Ugly Sweater Holiday Party

Happy 2016! I'm still getting used to saying that. 

Two weeks ago, I hosted an ugly sweater holiday party. Instead of the traditional theme where everyone arrives wearing an ugly sweater, I made the evening about creating one.

This post is a guide for you to host your own party next year :)

First, have each person bring a sweater to decorate. One can be picked up at a thrift store for under five dollars. 

I got a bunch of supplies together. 

Suggested Supplies:

• Felt
• Pom Poms
• Tacky Glue
• Scissors
• Felt Letters
• Ribbon
• Pipe Cleaners
• Fabric Paint
• Fabric Markers
• Glitter
• Stockings
• Tinsel
• Mardi Gras Beads
• Bows
• Googly Eyes
• Garland
• Bells

Also, I bought some small Christmas decorations such as the top hat that I used on my Stevie Nicks sweater (which you will see further down).

I suggest putting foil or cardboard inside the sweater while you decorate. 

                                                

There were ornaments to paint which could be glued to the sweater.

As for food, I ordered pizza and made festive vegan cookies and had a hot chocolate bar.

.

I bought a leg lamp cookie cutter and decorated with frosting and sprinkles. :)

My hot chocolate was made with Silky Cow Farms Hot Chocolate mix. Most of their flavors are non dairy. I used almond milk and got out my Crock-Pot to ensure it stayed warm throughout the evening. I bought chocolate chips, pumpkin flavored marshmallows, melting caramels and peppermint sticks, in case the guests wanted to add more flavor. 

The party was a lot of fun and I look forward to hosting another one next year! If you have any questions, leave a comment below or email me at TheZenFashionista@Gmail.Com

Have you ever made an ugly sweater before?

If you would like to follow my blog, all you have to do is go the top right hand corner of the page and type in your email. If you're on a mobile device, change to the desktop/web version. 

You can also just give me your email, and I'll sign you up myself. :)  

Until Next Time,

XOXOTheZenFashionista