My Two Cents: Fave 2016 Moments of Blogging

Hello, my loves! Today, I am here with a post that is rather unorthodox. Unlike my fashion and beauty posts, this is a reflective post for 2016. I have said it before, but I'll say again - 2016 was tough. It tested me in all sorts of ways, but I cannot blame it for doing so because I asked for it. Given all of the strength that I have gathered from past years of self-love from a committed relationship with myself, I welcomed company at the beginning of this year. Although I encountered a lot of bad vibes, I also encountered some amazing people who led me to some of the most incredible blogging opportunities. For that reason, I realized that 2016 wasn't so bad after all and it deserves some credit. I shouldn't allow a few bad experiences to overshadow some great accomplishments that WE achieved. (Let's be real, my blog and IG have become a collaborative effort.)

Before I continue to highlight and celebrate some of my favorites 2016 moments of blogging, I would like to thank those who have supported me, whether you have been here from the beginning in 2013 or just now! Although I have been blogging for three years, on and off, it wasn't until this year when I decided to take on a more active approach. These platforms of mine are not "famous" by any means, but I am still in awe of the momentum in which they have grown. I couldn't have done it without y'all. Without further to do, let's celebrate!

The Power of Makeup (link)

I started the year with this post because I wanted to make a statement for not only my readers, but also for myself. I wanted to set an honest tone for the rest of the year. By being vulnerable and exposing myself like so, I had nothing to hide when it comes to self-expression, whether it is done on my platforms or in person. While I did sport a full face a bunch this year, I also flaunt my natural face, which I haven't done in years.

Influenster's Voxbox

Lancome Voxbox

Make Up For Ever Voxbox

Thanks to Influenster, I was blessed with about 6 voxboxes this year - so so crazy! I was able to try so many different brands from drugstore to high end. I love trying new products because they give me an opportunity to be as creative as I can be. From playing with colored eyeliner to create a cut crease look to using a lighter shade foundation stick as my highlighter to contour, I learned that I have so so much to learn about makeup and its art form. I am really excited to explore it further, and I must thank Influenster for letting me test such complimentary products.

Colourpop Cosmetics' Mailer

 

I vividly remember how I felt after receiving a direct message from Colourpop Cosmetics in regards to using one of my Instagram pictures for its mailer. It was the timing that made it so memorable. I was talking to a person who undermined my passion and efforts toward my blog and IG, and never have I ever had to defend my platforms before. This mailer was a nice reminder that hard work does not go unnoticed.

Collaborations
Like I said before, I welcomed company in all forms this year, including collaborations. It was an effort to combat my social anxiety, but little did I know, it also challenged me creatively. Through my collaborations, I connected with some of the most creative individuals and brands, and there is something about creating art with others that is so humbling.

Wear Your Label (link)

I knew this year was special when I received an e-mail from Wear Your Label to collaborate in January. I was then asked to be a role model in March. It was such an eye-opening opportunity because I had to be really honest with myself in regards to my mental health. I have talked about my experiences with depression and social anxiety here and there on my platforms before, but for me to share my story in its depth was something else. It was that moment when I realized that I have a story to share, and I started to be a lot more vocal about it to start conversations and to end the stigma.

 

Russell Albert (link)



Russell reached out to me after my feature on Sacramento Fashion's IG. Russell came up with the idea of documenting my blogging process, which was refreshing from my typical #ootd posts. Since Russell is a professional, I left this session with so much knowledge that I later applied in my photo-shoots.

 

Isabel Bagsik of Unconventional Bliss

Isabel is seriously one of my biggest blog crushes! Her spirit and work ethics are absolute killer. I have worked with Isabel before this year, but I had the pleasure of working with her again (twice, actually!) during the summer. She challenged me to enter uncharted territories, which make for beautiful pictures.

 

Taylor Nguyen (link)



Taylor proposed a grunge-themed shoot, and never have I ever been so challenged by clothes before. Whether or not I was successful in doing so, I had so much fun exploring my identities through fashion and beauty. It reminded me why I am so passionate about so-called materialistic mediums.

 

Kristin Pickett of kristinlovette

This unofficial (?) collaboration was so different from the rest that it was an experience on its own. I was asked to help Kristin with her project of recreating a similar picture of yours truly. It was done indoors with elaborate studio lighting, which I am unfamiliar with. Instead of my typical poses, I had to recreate a pose that was a lot harder than it looked. The experience was very humbling in that I have so so much to learn. It was really cool to be exposed to a different dynamic.

 

Allen Vang (link)

Allen covered so much during our first collaboration that I still have content to work with! We went from thrifting to shooting outfit pictures to exploring night photography. My favorite thing about this particular collaboration is that I went back to my roots with thrifting. A lot of people ask me when and what got me interested in fashion. I usually refer back to this blog as the start, but in actuality, it was thrift shopping that started it. From something that I was so ashamed of, I am now so proud to say that buying used clothes is part of my lifestyle.

 

Shany Cosmetics (link)

With Shany Cosmetics, I absolutely believe in the idea that things come full circle. For me to receive one of its products as a Secret Santa gift to being chosen as one of five Instagramers to try out one of its products as a sneak peak, I am still in awe. Before then, I was not familiar with the brand, and now, I use Shany Cosmetics on a daily basis.

ColoredBySarah (link)

My my, I don't know where to start with my hair. Although I love the power of clothes and makeup, my hair definitely made this year extra special. It started so many conversations. From fellas at bars to an elder lady at my friend's conservative work party, my hair did most of the talking. It also dispelled some common misconceptions like how educated I am or whether or not I come from a "good" family. Last but not least, my hair gave me the confidence to truly practice self-love as I try new things for my own good. I am really excited for what Sarah has in mind for the next year in regards to my hair!

 

Hana of HungryGirl325

I still cannot believe this particular event even happened! For one, I got to know Hana better, who cannot be anymore inspiring. I honestly believe that everyone has something to offer, and Hana definitely proved that. While I learned a lot about her and her journey with mental health, I also learned more about myself and my journey. I was so honored and humbled to join stories with Hana to host a workshop at NorCal UVSA’s 10th Annual Leadership Conference. Although it was surreal to share my story with the attendees, my favorite part was when the attendees shared their stories. It was one of the most rewarding experiences as a blogger - and even as a person.

2016, you weren't too shabby. May 2017 be extra fab! As always, be kind.

Collaboration + My Two Cents: Thrift Tips

Hello, my loves! This post is actually a really cool post with some nostalgic vibes because I am going back to my roots! My blog originally started as a platform to stress frugal fashion. With gems from thrift stores, garage/estate/rummage sales, and flea markets, I have been able to accurately depict my identities with practically one-of-a-kind finds at my kind of price range.

 

I come from a low-income household, so frugal fashion wasn't necessarily a choice. It was part of my upbringing and I didn't think much of secondhand clothes growing up. I loved going to thrift stores with my family and we would split up into our respective departments. We would then regroup with some of the oddest finds. It wasn't until I was made fun of for wearing used and outdated clothes when I realized that my upbringing differs from others. Thus, I realized that I was (and still am) different. (Oh young-Diem, how I wish you appreciated yourself for being different then.)

I am so glad that the mentality regarding used clothes has changed. For it to be considered cool and hip now, people are giving secondhand clothes a second chance that they deserve!

 

Fun Fact: My earliest thrifted item was a pair of clear jelly shoes with silver glitter, which my mom picked out for me. I remember hating them with all of my heart, but I wore them everywhere in hopes of wearing them out. I def got my PPW out of them! I was so so surprised to see its return in fashion several years ago. I almost bought a pair at American Apparel, but that would have been way too ironic.





During this collaboration with Allen V., we went to Freestyle Clothing Exchange in midtown Sacramento. Although I haven't gone thrifting in awhile, I immediately felt at home at Freestyle! Allen asked me for tips on thrifting, so I thought I should share that knowledge on here as well!

 

First thing first, I like to visit the shoes. I don't think there is such thing as owning too many pairs of shoes. I always need another pair... not want, but need! (I am currently looking for an affordable yet chic pair of pleather heel boots. Help!) While looking through shoes, I keep a few things in mind: style, accents, and size. When I say style, I mean, are you looking for flats or heels? If you're looking for heels, are you looking for stilettos or booties? I ask myself these questions to stay focus. I then go through the shoes again asking a different set of questions if time permits. I do so to make sure that I don't miss anything. As for accents, I like those that are unique like rusted buckles and vibrant or clean colors/patterns. Lastly, in regards to size, some places are organized while others aren't. With my experience, I am able to eyeball my size, so I can eliminate a bunch of contenders. I don't have to look at sizes 8+ because I am a size 6. I can focus on sizes between 5-7 instead. This helps with time management big time.

After shoes, I visit the racks with dresses. Dresses are my absolute favorite article of clothing because they are the easiest to wear. I don't have to think or find a complementary pair of bottoms for a chosen top and vice versa. If time permits, I go through every single dress, but that's usually an ideal scenario. Instead, I shop by running my fingers along racks to analyze different textures. Personally, I am attracted to velvet, corduroy, and lace. While doing so, I also check out unique colors and patterns. If both elements check out, then I give the article of clothing a closer look. 

I tend not to find accessories at thrift stores, but Freestyle impressed me - from belts with animal accents to quirky/fun bags. They even have authentic vintage Dooney & Bourke's! 

 

Since I am an avid vintage Dooney & Bourke bag collector (Is that even a real thing?), I was once asked how to spot an authentic bag vs. a replica. It goes back to the fundamental element of texture! Definitely check out the leather; it should be rather soft and not stiff. Secondly, make sure the spelling is correct. A lot of replicas misspell the logo/brand. Next, inside, there should be a tag that says "Dooney & Bourke, INC. Made in USA." A lot of the replicas omit the "USA" portion. Lastly, there should also be a serial code on the back of the tag. Once you get familiar with the authentic ones, it gets easier to distinguish them from replicas.

 

My last thrift tip is in regards to looking through and buying denim bottoms. They are my worst enemy in thrift stores. However, I still have a little tip that has helped me out. I skim such racks by solely looking at the denim bottom's cut. I only wear skinny jeans because they compliment my body. For that reason, I look pass any boot cut, straight, and etc. Another great time saver!

My Ten Cents #60: Honestly, practice makes perfect! Thrifting can be overwhelming at first, but if you take it one department or even one rack at a time, then it's super manageable. Once you discover the thrill that comes from finding a one-of-a-kind gem, then you will know that all of that work was worth it!

Thanks Allen for working with me on an awesome and fun set!

How I Wear It + Review: Everyday Fall Makeup

Hello, my loves! Originally, I recorded a tutorial of this everyday fall makeup look, but unfortunately, my camera gave out half way through. Luckily, I snapped a few pictures that capture a few of my favorite products in action.

The first product is SHANY's Precision Collection Set of 3 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. I was given this product before its release. I am typically very picky about eyeliner because I strive for a sharp cat eye. My holy grail product is Stila's Stay All Day liquid eyeliner. However, after using SHANY's, I think its skinny eyeliner is a super close second. I have been using it everyday since I got it. Given its aloe vera formula, the application of this product is easy peasy.

Next, the second product is NYX's Born To Glow Liquid Illuminator in Sunbeam. I have been eyeing this product for a long time, and I finally picked it up last weekend! I love love love highlighting, and the application of this product is an effortless way to add some natural glow. Like any highlighter, I gently dabbed a bit of this product on my cupids bow, bridge of my nose, and highest part of my cheekbones.

Lastly, the third product is MAC's Lipstick in Diva. As an intense red-burgundy shade, it makes for a beautiful matte lipstick. MAC lipsticks are highly pigmented and long lasting, but I highly recommend wearing a complementary lipliner. I love how versatile this shade is - I can pair it up with a minimalistic look or full face.

My Ten Cents #59: Be open-mined. From high end to drug store makeup, to even underrated makeup brand, be open-minded.

Collaboration + My Two Cents: Hair Journey

Hello, my loves! I am beyond excited to share the depth of this special journey with you - whether you've been following me from the beginning, along the way, or just now. As the title states, I will be sharing bits and pieces of my hair journey. Although hair, along with fashion and beauty, appears to be materialistic, I hope to clarify some misconceptions. Most importantly, I hope to inspire you to look beyond the materialistic aspects of fashion, beauty, and especially hair. To me, they represent confidence, empowerment, and a lot of self-love.

My hair journey started in March 2015 when I got my very first balayage. After doing a bunch of research, I found a local salon where I had 12-13 inches of hair chopped off for donation and I said goodbye to my virgin hair. Little did I know, I symbolically addressed a high school crush.

"A long time ago, a boy who I thought I liked told me that I shouldn't dye my hair (when I wanted to dye it then). I was persuaded by him to satisfy his preference. (I don't know what I was thinking. It wasn't like we were dating... even then, it shouldn't matter!) To be honest, getting my hair dyed that day felt so liberating. It felt like, for a lack of words, a punch to his face for making me choose between [my] feelings for him and [me]. I finally love myself, and my other half should love me for me too. :) "

Although my stylist then did a good job, I did not connect with her personally. As a result, I didn't feel confident in trusting anyone in particular to update my hair. A whole year later, March 2016, I found Sarah of Crushed Amethyst Studio on Instagram. I loved her work, so I scheduled a consultation with her to bring life back into my extremely grown out balayage. Immediately, I felt comfortable around Sarah. We talked about my options regarding color and hair care (which is so so important!). Next thing I knew, I booked an appointment and got an ash blonde gradient balayage. Through out my session, Sarah checked up on me and made sure I felt comfortable. Getting my hair done was no longer nerve-wrecking; it became fun and relatively addicting! I felt like a whole different person after the session because I felt beautiful with beautiful (and non-brassy) hair. I definitely think my confidence, as the byproduct, showed during the photo-shoots that followed (i.e. February + March Monthly Favorites). I mean, look at the following before and after photo!

Since that session, I started to use It's a 10's "Miracle Moisture Shampoo," "Miracle Daily Conditioner," and "Miracle Leave-in Product." Occasionally, I used It's a 10's "Miracle Hair Mask" in place of the conditioner. As for purple shampoo, I used Matrix's "Total Results So Silver Shampoo." These products definitely made a difference! My hair appeared to be healthier, even though it was no longer virgin hair. I wouldn't have known the importance of hair care if it wasn't for Sarah.

After having so much fun being blonde, I craved a bit of color in my life. I originally stumped upon Sarah based on one of her works with rose-gold, so I thought the change was appropriate. Since my hair wasn't light enough, Sarah gave me pink tips that later faded into rose-gold. This was after I graduated from college, so I wanted to explore outside my comfort zone. At this point, I was confident in myself to make a bold move, but I wasn't sure how my social anxiety would react to it. Behind close doors and in small settings, I am very comfortable in my own skin, but I'm still working on the idea of being in public. I am the type of person who would avoid places and times that involve huge crowds - I do not like the attention that comes from them. However, when I first saw the pink tips in my hair, I felt so empowered - so much so that I made an excuse to be seen. I couldn't believe that I did it! I knew from that moment that I would get stares and comments from both family and strangers, but I welcomed them. My hair started conversations and it addressed some stereotypical misconceptions. Yes, I am educated; yes, I am surrounded and supported by "good" people; and yes, I had pink hair. I was no different from the day before that specific session.

Of course, all good things come to an end, and my pink tips completely faded out. I returned to Sarah for a toning session. It was then when I was asked to be her hair model. This time, more color would be involved - not just my tips. We decided on purple and pink, and this is what we got!!

 

The color is bright and vibrant in natural lighting, and it is deep and sultry in indoor lighting. The dynamic of this hair color cannot be more me! I felt even more confident in myself, and I felt proud of myself for trying something new and having a little trust by letting go of control. I may not have climbed a physical mountain, but I climbed one mentally. I faced and conquered years of social anxiety to some degree with this hair color that calls for attention. Not only did I embrace it, but I am celebrating it.

As ridiculous as it sounds, this hair journey helped me find and understand myself. Through fashion, beauty, and hair, I am able to express myself artistically. I don't have to hide this part of myself to fulfill some perceived expectation of being a quiet introvert. I actually think the quiet ones are pretty loud - they just need to be given the chance to be so. My hair became my outlet to be bold and loud. Thank you, Sarah, for giving me that chance.

My Ten Cents #58: You should get purple/pink hair. Just kidding! Don't be afraid to experiment with your hair - it will grow out/ your color will fade. Have fun with it! If you happen to be in the market for beautiful hair color in the Elk Grove/ Sacramento area, then please let Sarah know that I sent ya there!

As always, be you!

How I Wear It: Summer to Fall Lookbook

Hello, my loves! This is probably my favorite time of the year, so I wanted to celebrate with a "Summer to Fall" Lookbook. Stylistically, I am the most inspired, and thus, creative, during this season for the following reasons: I love the weather - it's not too hot nor is it too cold; I am able to layer, but I do not have to be bundled up; and everything smells like pumpkin, which puts me in a really good mood. This is definitely my favorite time of the year.

If it wasn't obvious, I have done a similar post before (Oh my, I was such a baby then! Please excuse the post - I, too, cringed while reading it again.). And fair warning, I will probably post a Fall Lookbook by the end of fall since this one emphasizes on the transition between the two seasons.

Outfit 1: Sheer turtleneck ($0.99, Ecothrift), Keepsake playsuit (~$12, Crossroads)

This beautifully structured playsuit has definitely been my summer fling - I wore it everywhere. Luckily for it, I see myself wearing it this fall simply by wearing a layer underneath. Here, I'm wearing a sheer turtleneck, but I can wear a basic T-shirt instead followed by a cardigan.

Personally, I think layering creates a really sophisticated silhouette with the sweetheart neckline. For example, the wrinkles on the shirt reminds me of pleats, which make the playsuit look modest. On the contrary, the playsuit usually gives off a sultry vibe.

 

Outfit 2: Gap denim jacket ($5, Rummage Sale), Knitted dress ($10, Forever 21)

I wear dresses almost on a daily basis. I think dresses are extremely flattering if you get acquainted with your body. They are easily dressed up and down. Lastly, their PPWs are always well-worth. This Forever 21 knitted dress is perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. The material isn't too thick, so you can throw on a jacket if you feel a bit chilly.

Denim jackets are a must for the fall (and winter). They can causal down a fancy outfit, but they can also make a basic outfit look put together. I recommend finding a denim jacket at a thrift store, especially in the men's department. Denim jackets last for a very long time, so don't worry about their wear - plus, any wear and tear adds to the jackets' character.

 

Outfit 3: Pleather jacket ($20, Forever 21), Silence + Noise crop top ($10, Urban Outfitters), Forever 21 distressed shorts ($10, Crossroads)

Crop top and short shorts - classic summer OOTD. Such combination does not need to be restricted to the summer. During the early transition, the weather feels more like summer than fall, so I still seize as much summer vibes as possible. In addition, I either wear a pleather jacket or an oversized denim jacket for warmth.  



Once the transition is over, I will substitute the distressed shorts for distressed jeans. I can still utilize the rest of the outfit.

 

My Ten Cents #57: Take time to understand your body. Once you understand which pieces compliment your silhouette, you should wear them during any season.



Collaboration + 091916: Moody Monday

Hello, my love! This past weekend, I had the pleasure of collaborating with Taylor N. on a little something-something that was different for me. I received the set today, not too long ago, and I was inspired to blog the look.

Before our photoshoot, I asked Taylor whether or not he had an idea or theme in mind. He replied with "grunge street wear." Beyond color, I have never been so intimidated by clothing before. When I think of street wear, I think of urban and hip hop culture with jeans, baseball caps, and sneakers. That cannot be any different from what I typically wear, which includes dresses, wide-brim fedoras, and heels. Although I am very open to trying out new styles and trends, I have to remind myself to stay true to myself. With that being said, I tried to give "grunge street wear" a Diem-twist. I think I did okay!

The closest thing that I have to grudge is pleather. My favorite pleather piece is definitely this UNIF's Harley dress from Threadsence. The brand, itself, is so rad that I always feel of a certain characteristic when I wear it. I always get weird looks in it, but that only empowers me further.

I usually wear something girly underneath like a floral top to balance the dynamic, but for this photoshoot, I kept it monochromatic to put emphasis on the sultry makeup. I decided to go heavy and dark on the makeup for an urban-inspired look. For the eyes, I played with the dark shades of Urban Decay's Naked 2 palette. I used Pistol as my base color; I used Blackout for my creases; and I used Busted as my transition color. Lastly, for my lips, I wore NYX's Liquid Suede in Vintage.

UNIF Harley Dress--Threadsence: $19.99

Forever 21 off the shoulder top--F21: ~$10

Forever 21 studded faux leather booties--F21: $14.80

Forever 21 choker--F21: ~$6

Total: $50.79, Price Per Wear (PPW): ~$10

 

My Ten Cents #56: Surprise yourself. 

 

Thanks again, Taylor, for working with me! Keep doing you! 

Collaboration + How I Wear It: Black and Brown

Hello, my loves! Today, I have a little confession. Although I am a self-proclaimed fashionista, I have probably broken every single fashion rule there is. My favorite is wearing black and brown together. I love how classic neutral tones are, so why not mix and match some of them?

This particular outfit was inspired by my hair (which is changing very soon!). After a few sessions, I have been flaunting this ash blonde gradient balayage. Like my hair, I love the contrast between the layers of dimensions within this silhouette. From my tan skin peeping at my midriff and mesh heels to the vibrant bucket bag with the gold buckle, my being, itself, is breaking the infamous rule against black and brown.

 

Forever 21 crop top--F21: $5

Vintage corduroy maxi skirt--Savers: ~$5

Forever 21 mesh heels--thredUP: FREE with credit (originally $7.60)

Coach bucket bag--Mom's closet: FREE (originally purchased from garage sale for $10)

Total: $10, Price Per Wear (PPW): ~$1

 

My Ten Cents #55: There should be one "fashion rule" - dress for yourself and nobody else.

 

Thank you, Michelle T., for collaborating and visiting the beautiful mural by Irubiel Moreno with me!

 

 

How I Wear It + Review: Get Ready with Me (Date)

Hello, my loves! I hope you all are doing just swell like yours truly. I've been balancing my time between dates with myself, along with others. I once thought that I had to choose either one or the other, but I think a healthy relationship with one benefits the other, and vice versa. Whether I am going out on a date with myself or others, I like to dress up and put on a full face. Not only is the process a lot of fun, but it also gives me the confidence to face even the worst date ever. (Been there, done that. :P) In this post, I wanted to share a few products that have been accompanying me on some dates.

 





Earlier this summer, I raved about Shany Cosmetics' "Everyday Natural Look" palette as my summer go-to. It is safe to say that I'll be using it for awhile because it is perfect for dates. I love that I can get away with a daytime look with minimal application, but I can easily build up the shadows for a dramatic nighttime look. The pigmentation on the shadows is fabulous! I would compare it to Urban Decay's "Naked" palette, but much more affordable.

With an ELF fluffy brush, I used a combination of the shadows in the second column for my creases and lids. Then, with a dense brush, I applied a tad bit of the dark shade for some definition in the creases. Lastly, with my finger, I applied a tad bit of the light shade to highlight my inner corners.

I've raved about my NuMe 32 mm magic wand before, but I'm going to do it again! My hair colorist, Sarah of Crushed Amethyst Studio, did such a great job with my hair, and I love that the wand did her work justice! I have a lot of hair, yet the wand gives me nice, loose curls in about 10 minutes (compared to 30 minutes-1 hour with traditional curling irons). Although not pictured, I always use the glove that is given. The wand heats up very quickly and I've burnt myself on a couple of occasions. Do not curl your hair too close to your scalp. Last but not least, invest in a really good heat protectant spray! I personally use It's a 10's "Miracle Leave-In Product" that has thermal protection - highly recommended!

This summer, I made the transition from matte lipsticks to creamy lipsticks and lipglosses because matte lipsticks dry out my lips, unfortunately. Although lipglosses are fun, I do not recommend them for dates. Lipglosses on dates require reapplication, which I am not a fan of. I stick to creamy lipsticks for dates instead. As of late, I've been wearing bareMinerals' "Marvelous Moxie" lipsticks. The formula is great given that it is moisturizing and long-lasting. Here, I wore the shade, Raise the Bar, which is plum-like with a hint of metallic. The line also has shades that appear matte, which is a nice compromise for me.

My Ten Cents #54: I used to have all of these rules for going out on dates - what I should wear because I did not want to be judged so hastily (denim bottoms vs. dress, light vs. heavy makeup, and etc.), but I learned that comfort should be the priority. If I'm going to a show solo, then I wear a T-shirt dress to dance in. If I'm going to the museum solo or with others, then I wear rolled-up denim bottoms and a pair of Urban Outfitters sandals to wander in for hours. If I'm going to the bars with friends, then I wear a simple yet chic LBD. Ultimately, I wear what I typically wear on a daily basis to dates.

Thanks for getting ready with me! <3