03 Thursday Jul 2014
Posted in Lifestyled
Hey Diorlings,
I have been more MIA than ever but my life has taken a few AWESOME turns.
I have such positive direction and am so happy.
First things first, I had a great birthday weekend celebrating with friends and family.
Ringo Starr and All Starr Band concert on Friday.
Family Birthday party on Saturday
ABC Party on Saturday
Birthday lunch and dinner with family in Detroit on Sunday.
And… I got another job at an awesome Michigan based burger tavern…
Smiles for miles!!!
Xoxo
-Mdm
18 Wednesday Jun 2014
Posted in flashin fashion
I think I was introduced first to Forever 21 when I was around 13. I had some cash from babysitting and I needed to spend it wisely and stretch a buck! After around six years of frequenting the fast fashion retailer I have learned many lessons, the hard way. I still am constantly wondering how I can improve my talents when it comes to shopping the budget friendly chain and I think I have narrowed down some pretty handy tidbits of information for all my ladies!
#1.) Cruise Forever21.com first!
Before you hit the sprawling retail establishment check out their online store. It is frankly much more organized. When you fall in love with an item screenshot it, or print out a photo- this will make it easier for a sales associate to locate the item you’re hunting for!
#2.) Go early in the week and when the doors open!
If you can try hitting the store at 10 AM on a Tuesday or Wednesday. The store becomes so chaotic on the weekend and on weeknights- by going early you can guarantee yourself space to roam and browse. Oh, and you will avoid lines!
#3.) Set aside a chunk of time!
Forever 21 is set up in mini stores! Boho, Edgy, Glam… etc. While one particular store or section might catch your eye… it is worth your time to look at all the store’s offerings.
#4.) Try it on! Once you take your money out of your pocket and hand it to a Forever 21 cashier you are never going to get it back, ever. Their sizes are not the same across the board! Unless you want to go through a hideous return process, confirm your purchases by making sure they fit properly!
#5.) Never buy something you would not otherwise buy because it is “cheap.”
Do: Check out the front display! The front displays tend to be stocked with hot trends at great price points, take a moment sink it in.
Do: Stock up on basic tees and camis, I swear the camis they sell for $1.80 last! Do: Check out the fabric and pull gently on the seams! If it feels like it will fall apart, it will!
Do: Sew buttons a little tighter when you get home in order to save yourself from wardrobe malfunctions.
Do: Check out sunglasses, scarves, bangles, heavier statement baubles!
Do: Check out faux chiffon tops, linen and cotton blend tops!
Do: Look for on trend items that may be only in for a season or two.
Do: Wash fast fashion items in cool water, on the most gentle cycle! Woolite is your new BFF! And hang dry all F21 items!
Do: Check out hair accessories!
Don’t: Jeans are not made too well at Forever! They tend to streach out and sag! Denim is worth spending a few extra bucks!
Don’t: Shoes are iffy at Forever. And heels are a big no! Try on the shoes but know that you have to walk in them!
Don’t: Skip small and delicate accessories! Opt for heavier chains and more sturdy pieces. Once a forever 21 accessory is bought it cannot be returned or exchanged. They know and we know it is likely to break!
Don’t: The beauty line at Forever 21 made tempt you with cute packaging, but it is not what you should be putting on your face or nails!
Don’t: Have little or no expectations that you will be helped along the way, shop at your own risk.
Don’t: Get hot headed with the associates! They are treated so badly as is.
Happy shopping babes,
MdM
13 Friday Jun 2014
Posted in flashin fashion
Tags
90s fashion, boho, brany melville, kimono, lwd, overalls, sheer, sunflower, tie dye, urban outfitters
I have been loving the trends this summer; as a 90s kid the revival of some old trends makes me so insanely happy. I narrowed down my top ten in a nice shoppable list for you!!
1. Sassy 90s inspired graphic tees! Emphasis on distressing and grungy feel-these are a laid back summer essential that will transition well into fall.
Zodiac Sign Open Back Tank -$11.74
Wetseal.com
Cool Kids on The Block oversized tee- $25
Brandymelville.com
Los Angeles upside down palm tree muscle tank
$12.80
Forever21.com
2. Tye die was a way of life as a child, nothing brought such joy as a vibrant tee with all of the rainbow incorporated.
Hypnotize Mini Dress
$44
Gypsywarrior.com
Alien tee
$38
Shopjeen.com
3. Sleeveless plaid! Who said plaid was only for fall and winter?
Sleeveless plaid button down
$24.99
Ae.com
Urban Renewal sleeveless plaid button down.
$49
Urbanoutfitters.com
4. Sunflower frenzy! The bright and vibrant bloom of summer a pattern we can not help but adore!!
Motel Isadora Sunflower swing cami
$42
Urbanoutfitters.com
Sunflower dress
$29.90
Wetseal.com
5. Boho tiered and slip dresses. The perfect little number to throw on for a hot day out and about.
Boho tiered dress
$18.99
Wetseal.com
Daisy baby doll dress
$50
Americanapparel.com
6. Summer shortalls. Easy now, tom boy.
Urban Renewal washed out overalls
$69
Urbanoutfitters.com
RES denim shortalls
$110
Nastygal.com
7. Little white and long white dresses. You don’t have to be a bride to wear white!
See no evil romper
$78
Nastygal.com
Cinched gauze maxi dress
$29.95
Ae.com
Kimichi Blue Dove Crinkle gauze maxi dress
$129
Urbanoutfitters.com
8. Kimonos and shawls, for the beach or for a mild evening!
NYSA shawl
$88
Anthropologie.com
Kimichi Blue Open Cardi
$49
Urbanoutfitters.com
LA Hearts kimono
$29.95
Pacsun.com
9. The sheer almost lingerie cami, strappy, sexy and always simple…
Floral sheer cami
$10.80
Forever21.com
Scalloped cami
$38
Anthropoligie.com
Trapeze ladderback tank
$14.99
Ae.com
Fun boho accessories! Liven up any outfit!
Traveler ring set
$28.00
Nastygal.com
Faux Marble pendant
$4.80
Forever21.com
Gemstone pendant
$17.50
Ae.com
10 Tuesday Jun 2014
Posted in Hauls!!
Tags
American eagle, clothing, cookie lee, eyelet, fashion, fedora, Forever 21, haul, lwd, Plato's closet, summer, trendy
So, I promise this is the last time I shop for a long while. I know that using my breakup as an excuse to spoil myself can not continue forever.
However, I did a little damage- so here we go.
American Eagle:
I have been loving eyelet detailing this summer, this teal linen/cotton eyelet combo with a high neck is so elegant and fun for a breezy day.
I got this dress, because it reminded me of an item you will see further down. This dress looks quite a bit like the Brandy Melville dresses, and I love the sexy back cut out that adds just enough oomph to a sundress!!
I am loving the LWD this summer, it is such a simple staple that really is so pretty. This dress with a cutout top and a zipper back is a closet essential I feel very confident in it and cannot wait for this to debut at parties.
This high neck graphic tank is super cute with a pair of distressed skinny jeans or cutoff shorts. Very casual but so cute.
This oversized cutout criss cross back nude top, is a much needed warm neutral.
Lastly, I picked up this turquoise accented belt, I can always use a few extra belts.
Forever 21:
I am not a hat person. I usually don’t buy or wear them. I just love the way a straw fedora with black accenting looks. So flirty and cute with a blouse and shorts or a sundress.
PAC SUN:
After many tireless hours reblogging photos of Brandy Melville clothing I finally got a piece of hers. It was not excessively expensive, like for reason I was convinced it would be.
I never really looked at the Kendall and Kylie line until I stumbled across this hoodie in the clearance. It was a buy one get one free promotion so I got this and another for my friend, Jasmine
Pac sun had a bunch of Bull Head jeans marked down to $9.99!
I tried a few pairs on and I really liked the fit of them.
I got this pair of pale pink, I think this is a great alternative to regular denim and it is a nice understated feminine color.
This super high rise pair of teal acid washed jeans are very edgy and very cute. I think these would look awesome with a black crop top.
Lastly, I got these blackish grey acid washed pants which I think will make any outfit a little more edgy!
Plato’s Closet:
This shirt was two dollars. I feel like this looks like it is straight out of Urban. It has that awesome vintage feel to it. It would look so adorable with leggings.
I’ve been on the hunt for black combat boots and these hit the spot, they are candies they have a comfortable insole and are so sturdy. I will get a lot of use out of these.
Cookie Lee:
Lastly, I went to my sister’s Cookie Lee party. Honeslty, I am not a fan of such events however I thought this was unique. The stone necklace and earnings struck me as unique and interesting.
That is all for now my diorlings,
Much love
-mdm
07 Saturday Jun 2014
Posted in Lifestyled
Tags
abusive thoughts, anorexic, body shaming, fat, feminism, marilyn, skinny, skinny shaming, womankind, words
A few days ago on Facebook a friend of mine posted a photo of her self in an adorable and semi revealing outfit with the caption “only a dog wants a bone, real men love curvy women who could care less about calories and know how to shut up and have fun;)”
This comment spinned me on my head, we all know about “fat shaming” we know that women are constantly being bombarded with images of women with very thin frames in advertising, in movies, on the radio.. etc,. Popular retailer Abercrombie and Fitch came under fire last year for openly admitting to being discriminatory of people with larger bodies, and we are always being told to buy the newest weight loss product, take a supplement… try an expensive program.
And maybe as backlash to all the painful and ubiquitous fat-shaming that has been endured, womankind and maybe some men, have taken to shaming skinny women.
This is not acceptable, the women on the right has a right to deciding how she wants to look and how much she wants to weigh!!
“What is skinny shaming?” You ask, in short skinny shaming is telling women with thinner bodies that they are not “real women” “not as beautiful as curvy girls” or the worst yet they are “anorexic” Now maybe some people would argue this is not a real issue, but I know it is one. You hear the term “body positive” being thrown around quite a bit lately and what that means is that you love and take care of the body you’re in, you embrace your beauty and accept imperfections regardless of your size! Many women I see posting photos which they hash tag and spell out as body positive are actually just bashing a body type other than their own.
I have gone from being a size 8-9 to a size 00 in the past two years, I am 5’1’+ so the transformation is dramatic!! I understand what it is like to be on both opposite ends of the spectrum. I made decisions about my body that make me happy! I may be considered skinny but in no way does that make me not a “real woman” or “anorexic”. My body is a temple, I respect it. I love the skin I wear, I like my scars, I like my waist, my hips, and my tummy the way they are! I too am body positive.
I really suggest that when you see “fat shaming” or “skinny shaming” that you call out the perpetrator(s.) Let your voice be heard! All women deserve to feel confident and worthy of respect and love. May I humbly suggest that if you are guilty of either egregious crime, forgive yourself and never allow words that could potentially trigger or harm someone! Everyone knows how it feels to be a victim of body shaming comments and no one deserves them.
– stay postive and love your body in every way!
-mdm
06 Friday Jun 2014
Posted in Hauls!!
Tags
American eagle, fashion, Forever 21, haul, paisley, pitaya, sailor, tropical, Victoria secret
Okay, so this haul is a tiny bit collective. I decided it was time to take a bit out of savings and treat myself to some new threads. Post breakup retail therapy sessions are really totally and completely necessary!
Here we go!!!
The first stop was the obvious one, American Eagle. I work there so why not reap the benefits of their employee discount and promotions…. the prices I list do not reflect my employee discount
I got this adorable turquoise bikini top, which has awesome back detailing, and I went with a printed bottom. It was 60 off the clearence price $8 top, $6 bottom.
I had been eyeing this light weight summer plaid for a minute now, I think this is perfect to pair with jean shorts and sandals it is so laid back. It is $24
I love this ladder back trapeze tank top, it is flowy and shows some skin, I will probably wear it with a lacy black bandeau to add detail. It is $19.95
I think this cut out hibiscus printed dress is such a stand out item in American Eagle, it looks so cute on and it is a go to dress for going out to eat, or walking around downtown. It is $24.99
These black and white printed midi shorts, with a 4 inch inseam are a little more modest than high rise shorts, but still so cute!! It is $29.99
I grabbed two basic tees, because honeslty I am one of those people who never wear basics. Each $7.99
Okay, so this acid washed pink plaid shirt isn’t necessarily a summer staple but I love the colors, I will wear it on a chilly night with some skinny jeans or leggings. It is $49.95
The last thing I picked up were these crocheted sandals, I think these are very neutral and perfect to throw on. I only had dressy black sandals and it was not working out.
It is $29.95
Forever 21:
Another trapeze tank, but this one is wild! A super hyper pigmented paisley with bright pink straps! Hello summer.
It is $15.80 (not bad)
This is another ridiculously paisley item, I’m a sucker. It is a floor legnth maxi dress (that fits me) and it has a revealing cut out back. It really needs a good steaming as of current. Pretty pricey for forever 21, it was $27.90
This ivory maxi dress, with a lining going to right above the knee and see through lace to the ground is gorgeous. I wish the camera really picked up all the embroidered detailing. Also pricey for F21 it was $29.80
It was impossible to say no to these cotton sailor shorts, with a high rise these are the perfect flirty and nautical addition to any wardrobe. It was such a steal a $12.80
The last thing I picked up was a cotton fit and flare dress from the Not So Basic collection, it has a perfect silhouette and was $11.80. I so totally am getting more!!!
Victoria Secret
Another not necessarily summer item, I picked up this zippered pink sweatshirt in a minty blue, I love the black on blue and It is so cozy. It was $49.95 but it didn’t bite my wallet I had a gift card.
Guess what another cotton fit and flair, but this one takes the cake. I love the tropical print and the cross back cutout. This was reasonably priced for VS Pink at $32.95.
Pitaya
I had never been to Pitaya before it is a little boutique brand with reasonably priced clothing. I found this pretty baby on the sale rack. It has a high neck with Victorian lace detail, it is flowy but perfect to be tucked into high waisted pants. It was originally $32 but marked down to $18
The accessories at Pitaya were to die for, I have been a huge fan of coin jewlery and when I saw this rustic coin necklace that had a penny in it, I nearly fell over. It was $12
And maybe or maybe not do I have a Urban Outfitters order on its way…
Stay tuned and prepare for more outfit posts!
Much love,
Mdm
05 Thursday Jun 2014
Posted in Uncategorized
Hi Diorlings,
My personal life has been a little less than glamorous lately causing me to not have the time to invest in blogging, but it is one of my passions and I surely should not let go of it. I am truly appreciative of all the people I have connected with and I am glad that many friends and damn near strangers have been so supportive of me.
After almost a two year relationship, I am newly single. This was not exactly something I expected, and I am having a lot of trouble processing the ebb and flow of emotions. Surely, I am sad but I am not defeated. The past week has been difficult, however I really am trying to embrace the power of positive thinking. I am grateful for my health, the opportunities I have for my future, my friends and family members, and all that I have been privileged with throughout my life.
A good friend of mine sent me a text “endings are just new beginnings” which may sound trite and cliched but it really resonated with me. I am now allowing myself to go through the phases of heartbreak, the sadness, the anger, and the loneliness but I am not becoming these things. I am not my emotions, emotions are transient.
I look at the world around me, I see tragedies like civil war in Syria which has killed many thousands, or the homeless people who stand on the street corners; a victim of circumstance maybe. Now is the time to rebuild, to reinvest, to reevaluate. We are going to face setbacks, such is life.
I hope to spend the free time I now have, doing things that are healthy like exercising, cooking, keeping my room clean, and blogging. I now can rediscover hobbies, like reading or jewlety making. I am going to survive, and I am not a victim. I will volunteer my time, I will put my energy to helping others.
To anyone facing a hard time, I wish the best of luck and happiness to you.
– warm regards
Mdm
22 Thursday May 2014
Posted in Uncategorized
So many people ask me how I lost weight, and I am more than happy to tell them about my journey… but few ask how I keep it off. I think the hardest part about losing weight is making sure it doesn’t find you! I have compiled my ultimate strategies for staying thin. This is not a health plan or diet regimen that I believe everyone can follow, but it is mine and I strongly advise you to do research on your own body type, before pursing any diet/fitness program.
1. Eat a low calorie breakfest
Yes, you need breakfest and no you do not need to break the calorie bank to eat it. I have a few favorites I keep in the fridge.
I suggest Thomas 100 calorie english muffins- which are also great for lunch packers.
I often put a smidge of spicy cream cheese on them, or when I’m completely unoccupied I might cook some egg whites. These are the ultimate way to get a traditional breakfest while still staying skinny- forget about Special K.
2. Eat off a smaller plate.
I heard this many years ago from my grandfather I was so skeptical, but this might be my best tip. Eating is very psychological and we have a tendency to clear our plates (as if we are afraid we will never see food again) When we fill up a smaller plate and we clear it we are most likely going to feel satisfied so ditch those big old dinner plates and opt for a salad plate instead.
3. Yes, you should count calories.
While many a thin person may tell you they don’t count calories… it does not matter, you should. What is food- food is energy (I feel like a ska band singing that) food is necessity. What is fat, its excess calories. 3500 calories makes a pound. So how do we lose weight, we cut excess calories and burn them when we can. I suggest using an app like MyFitnessPal to help you log what you have been munching on, this will allow you to evaluate your dietary decisions and plan ahead. Oh and the app is free.
4. You can have seconds but…
So you are at a family dinner and you have a smorgasbord of delicious but mostly unhealthy foods to choose from, here’s how you don’t ruin your healthy eating plan. Fill half of your plate with salad/veggies/ fruit, one quarter with protein and one quarter with starch. Then when everyone gets seconds only refill your plate with the salad, veggies, or fruit. It works, I promise. And you will not feel deprived.
More please…
5. Savour it slowly.
Eating quickly is your worst enemy, trust me. I make it a habit to not devour my food, I take small bites and I do a little playing with my food. I eat my food so that I can taste it, I sometimes even kind of dissect it to narrow down the flavors. If I am having pizza I cut it up and use a fork, so that when everyone is on slice 4, I am just starting in on my second slice. I feel fuller and I feel leaner than my gluttonous counterparts.
6. Don’t sip your calories.
Okay. I used to drink juice like it was going out of fashion. Little did I know that it was a major source of empty calories and sugar. If you really must have juice, use a small glass (no bigger than 6 oz)
7. Pre portion your snacks.
I am a huge fan of chips, yes I know chips are not healthful by most definitions but who does not love em?
One thing I know about myself is if I sit in front of the TV with a bag of chips I might just finish them all before the first commercial break. So I by my bag of chips (usually pop chips or at least a baked variety) and I count them into portion sized sandwich baggies. So when I really must much on something I have a limit I cannot go over.
8. Move
Okay so not every person has the time of resources to go to a gym, but we all so have household tasks to accomplish and those burn calories too. Set aside 45 minutes of your day to clean, this will give you peace of mind and a spectacular looking dwelling as well as a totally awesome work out.
Clean closets, firm booty!!
9. Blog about it, pinterest it, join a facebook group.
Connecting your cyber life and your tea life goals has never been easier. If you don’t have a skinny ally at home then you certainly have one on the internet (me) and other people with similar goals are aweosme to talk to. Sometimes all it takes is a little inspiration to kick start a workout or remind you, you really can skip that Big Mac and fries. I love pinning recipies
and tips and tricks and it puts me in a great mental state for living well.
10. Don’t forget dessert
I saved my best tip for last. A desert under 200 calories each day is just the right amount of indulgence. When you eat that mini ice cream sandwich you are tricking your body into thinking it is getting a really good cheat treat. So hey grab a kit Kat, it is not the candy that makes you gain weight, it is your overall calorie intake that does. Don’t forget to have fun.
Yum!
19 Monday May 2014
Posted in Beauty
Tags
1. Orange De Chine – YSL
When my boyfriend returned from his trip to Toronto he brought back my first ever Yves Saint Laurent lippie. Oddly enough he picked a color that I do not own, Orangey-red. Orange De Chine is a buildable lip stain/gloss and it is extraordinary. I seriously own nothing like this. I cannot wait to get my hands on more.
2. Bath and Body Works Morrocan Orchid and Pink Amber fragrance mist.
Usually, I am not a huge fan of bathroom mists but this has been an exception. I was in bath and body works at the beginning of the month and this was one of the featured promotions I am so intoxicated by this sensual mist, and its staying power is pretty remarkable.
3. Bandeaus
With summer arriving I have been stocking up on sun dresses and tanks then a lacey bandeau. I seriosuly hate the tacky look of bras showing under my dress so these little guys have been a wardrobe essential.
4. Too Faced Bronzed and Poreless
I have fallen madly in love with this bronzer and don’t think I will ever buy any other. It is absolutely perfect for my pale complexion, it gives me just the right amount of warmth without looking artificial or gauche.
18 Sunday May 2014
Posted in Uncategorized
Last night my parents and I went out for a carbohydrate rich evening of eating and drinking champagne at our very favorite Italian Ristorante. I’m not an Italian but I do play one on TV. And in the spirit of The wonderful people of Europe’s one and only boot I decided to turn my Chic on.
The little place we go to has a signed picture from both the former Pope and Frank Sinatra who both at some point dined there. Now if that doesn’t beat the Olive Garden I don’t know what else could.
I decided to wear a heavier two piece suit from Express, a long drapery necklace that’s all black, and a pair of killer strappy heels, topped of with big Sunnies and a nude leather jacket all of which are from Express.
The moral of the story even when you are about to eat your weight in pasta, you better look sinfully good.
– mdm
Miss Dior's Vanity 