Sometimes less is more

Sometimes less is more...especially when it comes to make up!

I always struggle when trying to write a post on makeup and beauty products because it's not really my area of expertise. I only started wearing makeup when I was about 20. Being the fashionista that I am, one would think that I would totally be into makeup, but for some strange reason I'm not. I'm all about things looking natural, so I guess that's part of the reason I don't have much interest in makeup. I do receive compliments and questions about my makeup routine from time to time so I thought it would be a good idea to recap it. I've done posts on my makeup routine before and a video which you can check out HERE but it's been a while so here is my current makeup routine and products that I like for not only affordability but for the a natural look and no skin irritation (Hello to the ladies with sensitive skin, I feel your struggles!)

Step 1: Making sure I have a clean face. I always carry facial wipes around because I hate when my skin feels dirty!

Step 2: Apply Primer; This Arbonne primer is honestly amazing! I've gotten so many people hooked on it because it leaves your skin feeling like silk...literally! Also it’s all natural and is great for people with dry or sensitive skin. (You can purchase this by clicking HERE)

Step 3: Apply BB Cream; I know this isn't actually called 'foundation' BUT I use it as one! I honestly thought it was the same thing as foundation but apparently not lol (See what I mean I'm horrible when it comes to make up). I love it because it is so light on your face and it makes your skin look clear and like it has a natural 'tan' to it! 

Step 4: Apply Blush; I use Carol Baker, which I actually got awhile back when getting my makeup done for my birthday. I just started wearing blush and I love it! This specific one goes on super light and gives you a 'rosy’ cheek' look, which is super cute for spring/summer. Again this is a high quality product that is from Visage (Seriously become a member at Visage you get wicked special offers when you sign up! Not to mention they are great at doing eyebrows)

Step 5: Apply Eyeliner; Okay is it just me or is eyeliner a pain to put on! I can't use liquid eyeliner because it just takes too much focus and when it comes to makeup I'm not about that lifestyle...lol. I like to use a pencil liner because I find it easier to apply. The thing with pencil eyeliners is that you need to find one that goes on easy so you don't have to do like 10 layers just for it to show, I find Rimmel works best and I just stick with dark black for colour.

Step 6: Apply Mascara; I find it so hard to find mascara that doesn't 'clump' or that doesn't bother my eyes. I love this one because it doesn't leave my eyelashes clumpy. Unfortunately will never be able to buy this brand again because I got it in Italy as a gift! Boo! I still haven't found one that I LOVE but one day I will (if you ladies have any suggestions please do share!)

Step 7: Apply Lip Balm; Fun facts about me...I HATE lipstick! I don't know why but lipstick just doesn't work with me. My throat gets sore for some weird reason and I just hate the feeling of having it on my lips, not to mention I'm super paranoid about it smudging and me not knowing! Instead I use a coloured lip balm or lip chap. I usually go with Maybelline Baby Lips; it comes in a ton of cute colours. Red or pink tones are my favourite and I find look best on me. 

P.S My makeup bag is from Victoria Secrets (I LOVE it)

So there you have it 5 products and it literally takes me less than 5 minutes. This is my makeup routine for any occasion...Yes even fancy night outs and weddings. Like I said I'm all about the natural!

If you are interested in purchasing any Arbonne products let me know and I can get you a discount! You can check out their products HERE.

Have a beYOUtiful day and a fabulous long weekend!

Stephanie xo

Smoothies for Breakfast

 

Good morning! Do you ever wake up in the morning and crave something specific?! I don't usually but today I woke up craving a refreshing smoothie. I love smoothies in the summer for that specific reason, they are super refreshing, nutritious and delicious! I thought I would share it with all of you today. Also I put in a video below that I did a few months back on 'How to Build a Healthy Smoothie'. The one I made today is the one I make in the video minus the coffee :)

1/2 banana
1/2 cup Almond milk (unsweetened)
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp. all natural peanut butter
handful of spinach
1 scoop protein powder (I used Vanilla)
dash of cinnamon
Blend all ingredients in a blender and enjoy :)
 

 

Have a great day Everyone!

 

Stephanie xo

My Full Upper Body Workout

Hey Gang! I know some girls hesitate to do an upper body workout because they feel they will "look like man". Unless you are lifting a crazy amount of weight (I'm talking like SUPER heavy) and you are eating a crazy amount of calories, or you're on steroids, then this will NOT happen! I will use myself for example; I have the type of body that builds muscle pretty easy but I still do upper body workouts. What I like to do is a full upper body workout, where some like to split it up by doing multiple upper body workouts a week focusing on one or two muscles.

Here is one of my full upper body workouts

I always like to start with a warm up. Usually I will do 20 minutes on the Stairmaster, but you can use any type of cardio machine. Also I try not to rest too long between each set (1 minute max)

Shop This look

SHOES, PALMIER SWEATER, LEATHER LEGGINGS, TEAR DROP NECKLACE, SILVER RHINESTONE WATCH

Good morning lovelies and happy Monday! I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend; it was definitely a HOT one! Not that I'm complaining at all. Zara's was having a HUGE sale this weekend (You would know if you are on their mailing list...Get on that if you aren't!) As soon as I saw these black, grey, snake print shoes I fell in-love! Then when I looked at the price and saw they were ONLY $20 I fell even more in-love. To brag about these shoes even more, they are SUPER comfortable, it honestly doesn't even feel like I’m wearing heels. Seriously how can you go wrong! I paired it with leather leggings, a Corvid color tank sweater, a tear drop necklace (which I'm absolutely in love with!) and some cute accessories. I have put the links above, under the picture. 

Happy shopping!

Stephanie xo 

What to do with ripe banana's

I never go a day without eating at least half a banana. I am seriously addicted! I love adding them to smoothies, oatmeal or having it with peanut butter; but what do you do with banana's that are just too ripe to eat? Well throwing them out would be a waste, so here are some recipes that you can make with your ripe banana's :)

Healthy Banana Bread 

Ingredients: 

2 medium-sized ripe bananas

1/2 cup rolled oats

3 whole eggs plus 2 egg whites

1/2 cup milk

1 tsp baking powder

2 scoops of vanilla protein powder

Nuts of your choice (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

2. Mash the bananas up really well, and whisk in the eggs and milk. 

3. Blend the rest of the dry ingredients into the mix until it takes on a batter-like consistency.

4. Spray a loaf pan and pour in the batter.

5. Bake the banana bread for about 35-40 minutes, or until a fork comes out clean when you stab it. One loaf makes about nine 1/4-inch slices.

Pancakes

Ingredients :

1 whole egg plus 2 egg whites 

1 small ripe banana

1. Mash the banana and crack the eggs in it, stirring until the mixture becomes somewhat homogenized.

2. Heat a greased griddle or frying pan on medium heat and pour about a 2.5-inch wide puddle of batter. 

3. Delicately flip the pancake after about 25 seconds or when it browns. The recipe makes 3-4 small pancakes.

FREEZE THEM AND USE THEM IN A SMOOTHIE!

Easy Shortcuts To Looking Stylish

Being stylish doesn't come natural to everyone so I wanted to share some of my easy tips to looking stylish :) 

1. Go for classic basics: What I've learned is to invest more in classic and basic items that are always in style. I wrote a post specifically on a capsule wardrobe (click HERE). This type of wardrobe is stylish and great because you can mix and match all your classic items and never go wrong.  

2. Find style inspiration. Hello Pinterest!! I find Pinterest is a great place for people to go and look for some style inspiration. Whether it is a celebrity or a fashion blogger, find someone that has the same style sense as you and shop the look. 

3. Use accessories. This is probably my go to when I have no idea what to wear or if I just can’t seem to channel my inner fashionista (yes I have those days). I keep my top and bottom simple and basic and I spice it up with a pop of color or print, with my shoes, a bag and jewelry.

4. Be Confident In Your Choice of Clothing. There is nothing more stylish (in my opinion) than being confident in what you are wearing. It's all about posture and poise. Make sure to hold your head high and walk like you feel confident! 

Have a wonderful weekend lovelies! 

Stephanie xo

My Top 3 Health Tips

I got asked the other day in the gym if I could give my top 3 health tips what would it be? There are soooo many tips that I could give but if I had to pick just 3 that I swear by, it would be these:

 

1. Drink lots of water: I drink at least 2L of water a day, sometimes up to 4L! It is so important to stay hydrated and to drink lots of water, water helps keeps thing regular especially when talking about your digestive system.

 

2. Get your sleep! I don't know about you but I need my beauty sleep. If I don't get at least 7 hours I'm a complete disaster the next day. Sometimes if I don't get those 7 hours I will take a power nap at some point through out the day, whether it's on my lunch or after work before the gym. Sleep is so vital for your health!

 

3. Listen to your body. I just started doing this about a year ago. I use to be one of those people that follows a certain plan. Eating every 3 hours even if I wasn't hungry, going to the gym and following a very strict workout routine even on days when I was super sore or sick. I found once I started listening to my body that's when I started to notice a big difference. Not necessarily the way I looked but the way I felt! Your body is amazing and it has its way of speaking to you. Now when I'm hungry I eat, if I am sick or sore ill rest. Listen to what your body is telling you and do what works fore you.

 

So there you have it! What are your top 3 health tips?! I would love to hear them :)

 

Stephanie xo

FOOD DIARY

Hey! I wanted to share with you gals (and guys) a food diary of what I ate today. I get asked so often what I eat in a day and I feel a lot of people like to see this to use as a guideline. I use to be the type of person to plan my meals out every 3-4 hours but to be honest with you I've changed that. I have been intuitively eating for a while now. basically what that means is I eat when I'm hungry and i don't if I'm not. I like to listen to my body.

Breakfast: Proats (protein powder & Oats) with berries, chia seeds and chopped walnuts

Snack: Protein shake ( I like having a shake that has added greens for the extra nutrients)

Lunch: Salad with raw veggies and grilled chicken

Snack: Apple with almonds

Dinner: 2 small extra lean turkey sausages with veggies and baked potatoes

I hate going to bed hungry so if I am I will include a third snack which is usually a rice cake with a tbsp. of peanut butter. Something not shown in this picture becasue I didnt have it at the time is dark chocolate!!Pretty much everyday I have a piece of dark chocolate to satisfy my chocolate craving. I also include at least 2L of water a day, plus 2-3 cups of coffee made with almond milk and stevia. This is just an example of what I ate, I don't eat the same thing everyday and it ins't always healthy. I like to have balance :)

 

Stephanie xo

CURVY HIPS AND RED LIPS

Good morning Gang!! I haven't done a 'shop this look' in a while so I thought I would share one of my favorites so far this week! As I mentioned before in other posts, every women should own a little black dress. It is so versatile and can be worn with pretty much anything! I paired it with a cute red heels, cause I mean what girl doesn't like black and red?! You could also pair it with leopard print flats or even a cute pair of sandals. To shop this outfit click the links below :)

DRESS, SHOES, SUNGLASSES, WATCH, BRACELET

Stephanie xo

Confession of a Workaholic suffering with anxiety

 I think many of us feel the pressure on our 25th birthday...or at least I did...that day changed EVERYTHING! I remember when I was little I always thought by 25 I’d have it all…My dream job, a house, a family, the whole shebang BUT that’s not the case at all! The first thing that popped in my head when I woke up on my 25th birthday is ‘Oh crap, I’m getting old.’ As many of you know I’m a pretty ambitious person and I strive for perfection (yeah I’m a perfectionist) which can sometimes lead to being a workaholic. I work full time and then I have my foundation and blog that I do on the side. Don't get me wrong I LOVE doing it all but it can sometimes get crazy! After realizing that I am 25 and not where I thought I would be at 25, I started working even more, every free moment I had I would be working. At the beginning I thought to myself “I can work this much no problem!”…Well so I thought until things got a little out of hand. I started getting anxiety attacks every evening and during the day I wasn’t able to work properly because I was so burnt out; I think I was actually losing my mind! I kept wondering what was happening with my body? Being a workaholic was happening! I had to accept the fact I was overworking myself and because of this I was dealing with anxiety. With that being said there were 2 two things I could do, take medication for the anxiety or change my lifestyle.

Here are the steps I’ve taken to deal with my anxiety:

I STOP WORKING AT 5 P.M.

Some may say that this is a lack of ambition when you don’t work 10-16 hour days. But In my opinion, it isn’t. Knowing that I have from 8 a.m. till 5 p.m. to plan my work for the entire day makes me more productive. At 5 p.m. I shut down my computer and I am not allowed to do any more work, I like to call this ‘me time’ things can wait until the next day. I take the evening to do what I want; spend time with family, meet up with a friend for coffee, hit the gym or binge watch one of my favorite shows (currently loving Suits!)

I GO TO BED NO LATER THAN 10 P.M.

Yes, I have a bedtime! I like structure for myself because it helps me stay on track and is extremely important. I go to bed at 10 p.m and wake up at 6 a.m. I could get up at 6:30 but I like to take 30 minutes in the morning to watch the news, eat breakfast and drink my coffee. It’s my morning ritual.

I EAT BREAKFAST

I am so much more productive when I take the time to prepare myself a proper breakfast. I can focus better and I have more energy. I love to have a ‘Proat’s’ (oatmeal with protein powder, some fruit and nuts).

STOP WORRYING WHAT EVERYBODY ELSE THINKS

Stop caring too much about what other people think, just enjoy your life and do what you love. Also stop trying to make everyone else happy; I am super guilty of this. Remember you can’t please everyone!

Stephanie xo

coconut water? Yes Please!

I have recently been addicted to coconut water, especially because it's getting hotter outside! It's just so darn refreshing, it has easily digested carbohydrates and contains I high amount of potassium (4 x more than a banana!! CRAZYNESS!) and it also has electrolytes. This makes a perfect post workout drink combined with protein, to help repair those hard working muscles and it tastes delicious! I have 250ml (1 cup) A day. You can drink it plain or add it to smoothies. When buying it just make sure the ingredients says '100% coconut water'. You can buy with or without the pulp, I prefer it with pulp but I know some don't like the texture. Check out the image below that lists a bunch of benefits from drinking coconut water!

Have a great weekend and stay hydrated!

Stephanie xo

NOT MY IMAGE

The unknown is now known...

Since posting more on fashion I have been getting a load of questions asking if I'm a stylist or work in the fashion industry and the answer is "nope" lol...a lot of you did not know that I have a passion for fashion and that's because I never really talked about it on here. However the unknown is now known...When it comes to fashion, I think I was born with a love for clothes, shopping, and fashion in general (when I was little I would literally change 5 times a day into different outfits and majority of the time I had to be in a dress or skirt). That love has developed into a passion! As you all know I love to promote and do whatever i can to help women feel better about themselves and i feel like fashion is another way of promoting that. Helping other women look and feel their best through creating a great, yet realistic wardrobe for them is pretty much a dream job of mine! Not saying i will be doing this full time anytime soon but maybe one day! I realize that shopping and fashion does not come easy to every girl, so I hope my blog can help with that aspect! Or, to inspire others to be creative with your wardrobe and dress in a way that represents your own unique style. I do believe that beauty lies in more than clothes and I’m passionate about each woman finding her beauty and security, I just find fashion is a way that helps women feel better about themselves, I know it does for me! Nothing feels better then feeling put together in a classy outfit!

So there you have it me in a fashion nutshell :)

Stephanie xo

 

OUTFIT DETAILS:

Shoes, Pants, Blouse (look-a-like), Bag (look-a-like), Sunglasses, Bracelets, Ring (look-a-like), Watch

Morning HIIT Workout

Hey Lovelies! Here is my HIIT workout from this morning! I'm not going to lie it's hard! But no pain, no gain right?! The workout is 50 seconds for each exercise with a 10 sec rest in between each exercise... oh yes 30 painfully delicious minutes! I put links beside exercises for those who are not sure what they are :)

50 sec jump rope

50 sec jumping jacks

50 sec skaters

50 sec burpees with push up and tuck jump http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqCEVaxWxLA

50 sec abs pike ups

50 sec jump rope

50 sec triceps dips (I did this off a step) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0326dy_-CzM

50 sec skipping

50 sec one leg lunges left leg  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQvtxsq00v0

50 sec high knee run on the spot

50 sec skaters side to side

50 sec chest push ups

50 sec laying leg raises

50 sec skipping

50 sec burpees

  

REST FOR TWO MINUTES AND THEN REPEAT THIS CIRCUIT ONE MORE TIME! 

F.S.F Blogger xo

MY CAPSULE WARDROBE

 

What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
 

'A capsule wardrobe is a mini wardrobe made up of really versatile pieces that you totally love to wear.'

 

I love the idea of a capsule wardrobe becasue you can easily mix and match all these pieces, whether you are going to work, on a date, going for ice cream or going to an evening event. It makes fashion life a lot more easier! I put together this collage of my personal capsule wardrobe to give you all an idea of what mine looks like. I am in love with each of these pieces and they are all a MUST have in my closet for spring and summer :)

1. White dress shirt

2. Black leather jacket

3. Black blazer

4. White, black and grey t-shirts

5. Black pencil skirt

6. Cutest black bikini EVER!

7. High-waisted black dress shorts

8. Black dress

9. Gold Watch

10.Great fitted pair of jeans

11. two pairs of sunglasses (I keep one in my purse and one in my car)

12. Black purse

13. Black pumps

14. Leopard print flats

15. Brown sandals

16. Nike sneakers

 

What's your capsule wardrobe look like?

 

Stephanie xo

THE BEST WORKOUT ROUTINE FOR YOU

 

There are a ton of workout routines, so which one is the best? I believe that the best workout routine is the one that works for you! The best way to figure which one works for you is by trial and error and to remember that what works for someone else will not always work for you. Try experimenting with different types of training techniques. I know this can sometimes be frustrating because we just want to know what will work best for ourselves. I like to tell people to start off by combining different training sessions into your week. For example:

 

Monday: Aerobics/Cardio exercise

Tuesday: Strength Training

Wednesday: HIIT Training

Thursday: Rest

Friday: Circuit Training with a combination of cardio and weights

Saturday: Yoga

Sunday Rest

 

Finding what works for you can be a bit tedious BUT any physical activity is better than non at all! You might also want to think of taking classes, whether it be kickboxing classes, cross fit, or one in your local gym. 

 

Here is a little workout I did today for some strength training :)

 

 

Yogurt Yay or Nay?!

 First things first.. YES I eat dairy! I know I'm probably going to get bashed for saying that but as many of you know I'm all about that balance life and finding what works for YOU! Everyone is different which means everyone's body reacts differently to certain foods. For me yogurt is a staple because A. I love the taste and B. I find it really helps with my digestive system. For some yogurt or dairy in general is the enemy. If dairy isn't your friend then yes I suggest you stay away from it, but if you are okay with yogurt than I do suggest incorporating it into your day. I love making yogurt parfaits for breakfast or just having it as a snack with a small handful of roasted almonds. In my opinion yogurt get a big huge YAY!!!

 

Stephanie xo

Happy Friday!

Hey Gang!! This is a quick posts as I am just running out the door for work! I just wanted to wish everyone a VERY happy Friday!! Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Stephanie xo

what if...?!

What if we stopped worrying so much about what a scale says and start focusing more on how we feel about ourselves? What if we stop focusing on dieting and focus more on becoming more comfortable with who we are as a person? What if instead of criticizing ourselves in the mirror and looking for every bump or bulge, we looked in the mirror and turned our gaze inwards? What if we chose to start respecting and loving our body?

How we view our body is important. Not just because we should feel better about ourselves, but because we each have been created with a specific purpose. The enemy that some of us may have can distract us from that purpose.

 Here are 10 reasons why you should respect and love your body

1. You will take action and move forward in your life instead of being paralyzed by fear. Insecurity about your weight, your height, or your shape can keep you stuck and afraid. Instead, move forward with confidence knowing that you have so much to offer the world because of the internal and external beauty that you have defined for yourself.

2. You will accept things that you cannot change, but change things that can be without degrading yourself. You may have inherited genes that you are not necessarily happy with or that you feel self conscious about, but you can learn to accept those things and find the benefits of those physical traits. You have the opportunity to take inspired action to transform the areas that you can. For instance, if being out of shape does not support your vision for yourself as an active person, then you will be motivated to change because of love and respect for yourself.

4. An attitude of gratitude makes all the difference. Maybe something about your legs bother you, or your stomach seems flabby, or your hips seem too wide. However, when you transform those perceived negatives to what you can be thankful for instead, you are able to love your body more easily. Remember that your stomach digests your food wonderfully, your legs allow you to move about your life, and your hips make it possible for you to bend and walk.

5. Your body is unique and special. While you may fantasize about having a model thin body or wearing a bikini like a movie star, recognize that there is really nothing special about looking like a carbon copy of everyone else. You have so many distinctive features such as your hair, your eyes, your fingers, your toes and your arms. A positive body image is defined by how you love and appreciate how each of the unique parts makeup the whole of you.

6. Empowerment is yours! You won’t let others define you by a number on a scale or a dress size. You stand in your own power and declare to the world that you are worthy of respect because of who you are. You are no longer at the mercy of perceived judgements from others about you – you are free to be yourself in all areas.

7. Remember confidence is contagious. Others will sense the confidence that you have in your own skin, and it will translate into them interacting with you confidently and treating you with more respect. Imagine the positive effects that this can have on your relationships and your career!

8. You will feel more connected to others. Insecurity with our body tends to make us want to isolate ourselves. We feel like we don’t deserve to be out at social events and have relationships like those whom we perceive to have ideal bodies. When you realize that the people who matter most will accept you just as you are right now, you can enjoy being connected to others without fear of judgement.

9. When love goes around, it comes around. When you love your body, it’s easier for you to open your heart in love to others because you are not stuck in a negative mindset towards yourself. When you love others without reservation, they will naturally love and respect you more thus reinforcing your own positive body image.

10. You are free to be imperfect. There’s a lot of pressure in our society to maintain a certain size or weight and to have a “perfect” body. The trap of perfectionism is that you are never good enough and you always find something else to criticize. Embracing your imperfections and flaws unashamedly is freeing!

Be your own kind of BeYOUtiful!
Stephanie xo

Pre-Workout Snacks

 

 I don't know about you but going to the gym on an empty stomach just doesn't go over well, I find I feel super weak and light headed. I try to eat about an hour before my workout that way it gives my body a little bit of time to digest and avoid any cramping. I usually like to eat a snack before I workout versus a meal because I find a meal is too heavy on my stomach. I find eating carbs before my workout really gives me energy so i always make sure I am having some form of a carb, whether it's from fruit or whole grains. I feel it's so important to fuel your body before your workout so that it has the energy to perform at the best of it's ability. That being said I decided to share my top 4 pre-workout snacks!

 

1. Apple and 1 Tbsp. of almond butter

2. 2 rice cakes with 1 tbsp of peanut butter and a few slices of banana and cinnamon

3. Gluten free toast with a few slices of avocado and 1 egg

4. 3/4 cup Greek yogurt with 1/2 cup of berries and small handful of walnuts

 

Stephanie xo

Shop This look

Top, Shorts, Necklace, Wedges

Hey! I hope you are all having a fantastic week, I posted this outfit (images below) on Instagram over the weekend before going out for dinner with my girlfriend and I got a ton of compliments on the look. Unfortunately everything I am wearing I got last year... #Sorry. The good news is I put together a 'look alike' outfit that is very similar. The shoes are actually still in stock from last year so you are in luck with those! I have put the links below the image above where you can shop this outfit :)