Long overdue

I seriously have not posted in a few months.  For one, because it's been the holidays/finals/etc. and I've been so busy I honestly haven't had time.  Blogging should be something I do for fun (even when I am the only one reading my posts) rather than stressing myself out over doing a post everyday.  No thank you!

So, I'll go ahead and do a little catch up!

My holiday was fabulous.  I was able to spend quality time with my family...  I miss them so much and am sad that I don't see them often enough.  I wish we lived closer!  I got so many fun things for Christmas, but all I really wanted this year was a nice SLR camera.  I have been wanting one for so long and finally got one and a lens!  I'm so excited and plan on doing outfit posts once the weather warms up a bit.  I am still learning how to use it but once life slows down a little I'll figure that out a little more.

Right now I'm working part time and going to school full time and going to the gym daily so it can be hard finding any free time whatsoever.  But I promise, I will get there!

I do have to talk fashion, though, since it's my first post in a long time.  I love preppy (think J.Crew, Gap) but I also love a little edge (Zara, F21) and so I really have no distinct style.  I simply wear what I feel like.  And lately I have been scoring some awesome pieces at great prices.  I usually have a difficult time justifying spending a lot on one item.  I'd rather go shopping and come home with 5 new things rather than 1.  I feel like I have a really good eye for quality and trendy pieces that are stylish and affordable.  For instance, lately I've been getting some great basics from Cotton on.  If you haven't checked them out, you totally should.  They have the best T's and basics that you can dress up with some cute jewelry and shoes.  I think that's what fashion is all about- taking trendy and cheaper pieces and mixing them with higher end, classic pieces.

It's so funny because I work with like 8 girls and we always tell each other the deals we find.  We all usually end up with the same thing by the end of the night because we've all gone and bought it if it's a crazy good deal.  For instance, I've gotten an adorable down jacket from F21 for $15 when it was originally 70, a $5 basic hi-lo top that looks way more expensive than that... etc.  It's GREAT!

Today, I found these amazing booties that look like these, for basically a fraction of the cost.  Like seriously?! So awesome.

F21-$39- trust me, the picture does no justice because when I saw them I almost died and thought to myself that they look pretty dang close to the Chloe version

Chloe- $1325

And like this polka dot sweater

F21- $22

J.Crew- $258 

As you can see, it IS possible finding the cute, trendy pieces for a fraction of the price.  I think it just takes a little patience and time to figure out which of the pieces you don't mind investing in and which you would rather get the deal (like me!) :)

Another tip, too: wait til things go on SALE.  There have been so many times where I've just purchased an item in the moment and because I felt like it rather than waited and usually, it goes on sale for like half the price.  Patience is something I plan on working on this year ;)

new found obsession...

Okay you guys.

So I know some of us like to indulge during the holidays.  Whether it means indulging in buying pretty things from pretty stores or eating amazing food, we like to indulge.

Well, when J.Crew has it's 25% off sales, I indulge.  Probably when I shouldn't, but hey, it's the holidays and it's the thing to do.

So I decided to purchase these babies online about a week ago- and I just received them... and let me tell you.  The best pant purchase I've EVER made.  And that is no exaggeration.  These have been all over youtube, blogs, etc. and I didn't realize what I was missing, until now.

So I guess this is a little review... if you will.  It is $$$ well spent.

J.Crew Pixie Pant.

Okay. So these pants are AMAZING.  I cannot even describe to you how perfectly they fit.  I almost ALWAYS have a hard time finding pants that fit on me.  I have a bum and really small waist and so I always have a gap in my jeans in the waist.  I absolutely hate it and it makes shopping for jeans so annoying.  I have realized there are only a few brands that work for me and that is J.Brand and Paige- jeans from that brand seem to always fit really well.  And a few pairs from J.Crew that I own always fit great.

Anyway, so I was hesitant to buy these because I was worried about the gaping issue.  Well let me tell you- these fit like a CHARM. I was so surprised.  I was getting ready to hate them when I put them on, fearing the lovely waist gape.  But nope- they conform to me perfectly.  

I was also nervous about these because they are actually PANTS, not leggings, and I don't love the leggings as pants look.  But I realized when I put them on they really do look like pants, and not leggings.  They are MUCH MUCH thicker and feel so much more substantial.  Perfect.

The thing I love about these pants is they work for nearly everyone.  People on youtube and bloggers with all different body types look fabulous in them.  They come in two different lengths- 28 inch and 30 inch inseam.  I bought the 30 inches because I don't want them extra cropped.  They hit a little above ankle on me which is exactly what I was aiming for.  If you want a more cropped look, I recommend the 28 inch inseam.

Sizing: I am usually a 25 in all brands unless I have a waist gaping issue I size down.  But in J.Crew I am either a 00 or 0 in their skirts and jeans.  J.Crew tends to run large but it really depends on the item of clothing.  In these pants I ordered a 0/25 and they are PERFECT.  No waist gap and no problems whatsoever.  So I recommend ordering in your regular size.  I know some people size down but I don't want them too tight because that's just never cute.

So the bottom line is order these.  They are PERFECT for the holidays because guess what!! They are stretchy pants and you can eat as much as you want without having to unbutton your jeans.  And they look amazing, they are super slimming- and I am telling you- you WON'T regret it. :)

xoxo, Kyla

holiday lips

As the holidays approach, we start pulling out our sequins, sparkles, sweaters, and of course- red lipstick!  Red lips have always been a favorite of mine (really, any time of year but in particular, Christmas.) It is important when achieving that perfect red lip to take a few necessary steps in order to make sure it's flawless.

Tips: always exfoliate nude, bare lips before applying lipliner (I like to use a toothbrush.)  Lipliner is key when achieving a red lip- you want those lips to stay in place and looking amazing all night!  Make sure to use a Q-tip to remove any excess- (I even use a little eye make-up remover to go around the edges of my lips with a Q-tip to make sure it's not bleeding outside of my natural lips.)

Image via Pinterest

And there you have it!  Gorgeous, red, holiday lips.

Wearing MAC Ruby Woo

Christmas Couture

A little Christmas Eve/Day outfit inspiration...

1/2/3/4/5/6

Happy December 1st!

making mistakes

Yesterday, I had an interesting experience that I want to share.

I was driving slowly and changing my music on my iPod when I realized there was a red light and I was not in the proper lane I needed to be in.  I looked behind me and the mirror to check if there was anyone in the lane next to mine to switch lanes, and I didn't see a car.  So I quickly turned on my blinker and started veering into the right lane when I heard a massive horn behind me.  I looked up at my rearview mirror and saw a woman in her mini van (probably full of kids) mumbling to herself and flipping me off- classy, right?

Anyway, I initially felt bad because I should have looked to make sure no one was there, but a few hours later I realized I was still thinking about it!  Why didn't I look closer?  Why did I move over so fast?  I could have done this or that better, I probably scared her, etc. And I kept blaming myself for this small incident that happened hours ago!  I realized I do this a lot, and it's something I need to change- I need to learn to just let it go. 

I tend to hold on to mistakes or experiences, and I tend to think about them numerous times to the point where I feel like the whole day is ruined just because of that simple, small mistake.  I tend to be really hard on myself and blame myself for things that I didn't do, couldn't change, or for simply just making a human mistake.  

I know for most of us it makes us feel bad when we hear someone gossiping about us, or saying things that aren't true about us (I've had my list of those... in high school I was told that I apparently got a boob job at 14, I was pregnant so that's why I moved to Utah... Like where does that even come from?! Not true, by the way.) And whenever I hear something like that, I tend to over think it- why would someone say that about me?  Why would someone make something up to make me look bad?  And the truth is, I will never know the answer- so why continue dwelling on the negative people or the negative comments?

This is something I struggle with for sure, and have for many, many years.  I am always making sure I treat people perfectly, leave the perfect impression- but the truth is, people will always find something negative to say if they're looking for the negative.  Some people will always try to bring you down, regardless of how you treat them.  A friend of mine recently told me "You really just have to forget about what people think."  And it's so true.  You can't always care what people think about you. 

You have to realize that what's most important is how you feel about you.  If you feel you gave it your all or you really tried to have the best intentions, do not dwell on the past or things you could've done, would've done, should've done.  I am really trying lately not to dwell on the things I can't change- as long as I know I've done my best, at the end of the day, that's all that matters. :)

christmas wish list

Well, Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is just around the corner!  I am super excited for Christmas this year because we are spending it with my family and I rarely see them.  It is fun to get together with them; I miss girls nights with my sisters and mom!  I miss seeing my cute brother who's growing bigger and taller right before my eyes, and of course my dad who is the biggest support and is always, always there for me.  I just adore my family and can't wait to spend Christmas with them!

For Christmas, I used to love a bunch of little things (because no matter what it was, I always wanted the MOST presents possible as a child... who doesn't when they're young?!)  But now I really just like spending time with my family and I have a hard time choosing what I really want.  I feel like I have all I could ever need so Christmas time to me is more about making memories with my family and husband. But this year, I really, really REALLY wanted a camera.  Not only for blogging, but because I really do enjoy photography.  You wouldn't know it because my husband and I rarely take pics together- so that's why a camera is necessary this year. ;)  I am taking some photography and graphic design classes next semester, so I'm really excited to learn about photography.  I absolutely cannot wait to take it to Paris with me- I will be annoyingly snapping pictures all vacation long. :)

This baby will be mine. :)

And to be honest, that's my christmas list. haha.  Lame, I know, but I truly can not think of one other thing I have to have at this moment!  My mom insists though, so I'm sure there will be a few other fun things underneath the Christmas tree ;)  

What are you wishing for this Christmas?

thinking

I came across this amazing excerpt/poem and I thought I would share.  It will leave you thinking and remembering that life is not about having materials, being the best, having the most, living for other's acceptance of you- no, life is about loving yourself, & truly living. 

THE PARADOX OF OUR TIMES

Is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers

Wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints

We spend more, but we have less.

We have bigger houses, but smaller families

More conveniences, but less time.

We have more degrees, but less sense

More knowledge, but less judgement

More experts, but more problems

More medicines, but less wellness.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.

We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often

We have learnt how to make a living, but not a life.

We have added years to life, but not life to years.

We've been all the way to the moon and back

But have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbour.

We have conquered outer space, but not inner space.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted our soul.

We've split the atom, but not our prejudice.

We've higher incomes, but lower morals.

We've become long on quantity but short on quality.

These are the times of tall men, and short character;

Steep profits, and shallow relationships.

These are the times of world peace, but domestic warfare,

More leisure, but less fun; more kinds of food, but less nutrition.

These are the days of two incomes, but more divorces;

Of fancier houses, but broken homes.

It is a time when there is much in the show window, and nothing in the stockroom.

A time when technology can bring this letter to you,

And a time when you can choose,

Either to make a difference .... or just hit, delete.

Oh, how unfortunately true this is- like we're all running the same race, trying to be just one step ahead all the time, and never actually reaching the finish line.  After reading this, I truly thought about how I could change my life and myself to becoming a better person.  To realizing that the most important things in life aren't things.

Hope you got some inspiration from this, too. 
xoxo

skincare 101

Since working at a make-up company, I've really tried harder to make sure my skin is being properly taken care of.  From drinking more water and quitting the tanning beds to purchasing products that are right for my skin, I've started a great regimen & I've noticed quite a bit of difference regarding my skin.

A few months ago, trying to balance a new semester, a job, going to the gym while trying to maintain a clean house and spending time with my husband,  I started to stress out (as I'm sure we all do at times!) I started to break out like crazy, and I began purchasing all these regimens and drugstore face washes and products that say they'll do the trick.  I was wrong.  It made it worse, and I began to use benzoyl peroxide like crazy and that only dried out my skin.  I was seriously getting anxiety from my breakouts!  I never break out that bad and so for me, it was traumatizing to say the least.

First of all, I bought some face wipes to make sure I was getting my make-up off completely.  I didn't want any trace of make-up left on my skin so I was sure my pores were able to breathe- every SINGLE pore. ha ha.  I use these face wipes and they are the BEST- they take off all make-up while exfoliating the skin as well. I love them!  They are super cheap, too.

I decided to finally (after many failed attempts) try to let my skin breathe and I stopped using lots of intense products.  I stopped using benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid and just started washing my face with Cetaphil.  And it actually started to clear up my skin.  I realized through this whole process that I didn't need a lot of intense products to help clear my skin.

I also started drinking more water and making sure to use lots of moisturizer.  I know people freak out when they use moisturizer and have oily skin, but really it's like putting water back into your skin- not oil.  Water is necessary for healthy skin and so moisturizer helps a LOT.  I use CeraVe and it is the best moisturizer I've used thus far.

I eventually decided to go to the dermatologist to see if there was any miracle product I was missing in my life.  He prescribed me Retin-A (and if any of you have ever used it, IT WORKS & IS a miracle product.)  It basically increases the cell turnover rate of your skin, so it clears out pores faster and strips away bacteria from your skin.  I started to use that and didn't see a tremendous result at first, but by the second or third week I was noticing a huge difference.

I also like to use an under eye cream to prevent any signs of wrinkles or aging (even though I'm only twenty and don't have wrinkles yet, prevention is extremely important!)  I love Bare Escentuals Renew and Hydrate eye cream and I've noticed a brighter and more hydrated under eye area- I also know it's helping prevent future wrinkles years down the road.

That's it!  My skin care routine, morning and night.

From using proactive to clean and clear to everything under the sun (and wasting tons of $$$), I finally realized what my skin needed.  I realize everybody's skin is different, but if you have really oily skin like me and nothing seems to be working, try backing off the intense products- for me it irritated my skin and made me break out worse.  Also, try Retin-A!  I was really surprised how well it worked and I won't ever stop using it. My skin now is 10 times better than it was a few months ago, and it feels softer and clearer than it has in months!  Yay for healthy skin!

Hope this helped some of you reading. :) xoxo

currently crushing...

Kate Spade Bag /Faux fur snood /Bangle (on sale!) /Bow necklace (on sale + 30% off) /Trench /Boots /Top

I am loving this cross body from Kate Spade.  I'm especially loving it for Paris & think it will be the perfect cross body to bring with me.  

The snood from Asos is gorgeous & looks great with every trench and peacoat I have!  It keeps me extra warm, too.

 I loved this bangle when I saw it on Asos, and thought it was a great everyday reminder... it comes in pink, too!  

This bow necklace is so cute & I can just imagine it with some holiday outfits this winter.
When it comes to trench coats, I love fitted coats that nip in at the waist to give a good shape.  Anything that isn't fitted always looks boxy and big on me.  I  especially love this trench from J.Crew because of it's shape!  I was so happy with the color when I purchased it- it looks so classy and feminine.  

The boots are another fav!  I've been wearing them a lot lately and they are super comfortable and versatile.  

I am loving the peter pan collar trend this season and when I saw this top at J.Crew I fell in love!  I have been wanting this J.Crew top for weeks now & I'm hoping it comes back in my size. Fingers crossed ;) 

Just a few of my current favorites!  xoxo

Sequin Love...

Lately, I've been loving anything and everything sequin! it just puts me in the holiday mood... It must be that time of year! I love the last photo- it just proves that sequins can be worn casual, too.

Time to find some sequin beauties to wear this holiday season! 

xoxo

just the two of us...

Lately, whenever I see a cute baby, I suddenly need one.
Nick and I will be walking somewhere, in the grocery store, at the mall, at church, etc. and I'll see a cute baby and just look at him.  He smiles, rolls his eyes, and knows that really,  I want to wait until I graduate.

And then I'll see another cute baby, and it happens all over again.  And sometimes, I really do want one.

But then it's quiet nights like tonight, when I look at him studying so hard, and working so hard for me to someday support me and eventually our family, and I realize that everything happens in time.

That I don't need to rush, and that it will happen when we feel it's right, and everything is perfectly planned... that our life is perfect, right now, just the two of us.

I am so grateful for such an amazing husband.  I am the luckiest girl in the world!

Anxious...

Bold lips wearing MAC Rebel & F21 knit scarf ($12!)... staying cozy this fall...
I am getting so anxious for my camera... I guess every good thing is worth waiting for! :)

"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths.  These people have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern.  Beautiful people do not just happen."

-Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

I know we all have our own secret struggles in life, and sometimes you need a little realization that these trials make us who we are... they make us beautiful.

xoxo

Must Have Hair Products...

Many of my friends and family will tell you- hair is seriously my obsession.  I love long, pretty, tousled waves- it is probably my go-to hairstyle.  I used to be a springboard diver, and I quickly learned that chlorine is not your hair's friend.  I began to get super thin hair that looked like seran wrap- it almost looked like doll hair because it was SO shiny and flimsy.  I HATED it! I lost so much hair and my hair looked so damaged.  Before diving I had really healthy, thick hair.  As a baby, I had so much hair my mom could put it in a ponytail before I was one. I missed my healthy hair!  Once I quit diving, (that wasn't the reason I quit :) I noticed a huge change in my hair by using some amazing products to help boost it back to it's once-upon-a-time thickness and length. I wanted to share some of my go-to products and tips for luscious, beautiful hair, especially after it has been damaged!

1. The first thing I STOPPED doing was getting it colored.  I was super consistent with hair color when I was a diver, and my hair would fade in about two weeks so I was constantly getting it colored and highlighted.  That in itself damages your hair A LOT, so I just decided to stop completely.  I actually really love my natural hair and had forgotten the color I even was!  Sometimes I get an itch to change it and get it colored, but I remember that for healthy hair, it is important to keep it natural.

Dry Shampoo.  I recommend this 100%.  I only wash my hair 2x a week and I have noticed a significant difference in the length and health of my hair.  Washing it strips out natural oils that your hair needs to maintain it's shine, beauty and health- dry shampoo will become your best friend!  This is like $3 at drugstores.

Macadamia Natural Oil Deep Repair Mask

I use this about once a week to restore smoothness and shine.  I love this product and it seriously works and does what it says it will do for your hair!  It is the best deep repair conditioner I have ever used. Also, if you just smell it you will never go back.  It smells like Hawaii!  You can purchase this at Ulta for I believe $50.

Hydratherapie Biolage Shampoo

I use this shampoo every day and have been for about a year and a half now.  I really love it and it helps restore the moisture in my hair.  My hair is super duper dry and barely gets oily (maybe like the fifth day it will start getting oily if I haven't washed it) and I really need a product that delivers lots of moisture- this is it!  I love it and the smell is amazing.  I believe it's about $25 at a beauty salon.

Argan Oil

I love this oil, for 1. because it's inexpensive, and for 2. it really does bring shine and softness back into your hair.  I use a tiny bit every day to run through my hair when it's styled and dry, and also every time I get out of the shower. It's an amazing product that I can't live without!  You can purchase it at Sally Beauty for like $10.

Elnett Hairspray

Hands down best hairspray I've ever tried- and I've tried  A LOT!  This hairspray delivers volume and hold without the unmanageability of most hairsprays.  You can literally brush your hair and it will come  out like it was never there.  It holds super well but is so manageable and doesn't make your hair sticky or stiff.  I recommend this product if you're looking for a good hairspray.  You can find it at Wal-mart for about $11.

The products mentioned above are products that I love and use every day.  I really do believe that taking care of your hair starts with 1. a good diet, 2. drinking enough water, 3. proper care and product usage.  I don't believe you need a lot of products for beautiful hair- just products that work and keep your hair looking and feeling beautiful.

xoxo

Waiting for Paris...

A few weeks ago, my parents surprised my four siblings, my husband and I and grandmother on a 10 day trip to Paris.  I was so excited I could barely breathe- I started laughing and crying at the same time!  Paris is every fashion lover's dream vacation- I can't help but count down the days until I visit the fashion capitol of the world with my very favorite people.

A chic scarf is an additional element to an otherwise minimalistic outfit

Simple hair and make-up

I can't wait to visit you, Paris! 

Fall Fashion Fever...

Neutral Tones

Messy Waves

Cozy Knits

Burgundy lips, sultry eyes

Leather everything

Just a little fall inspiration...

Flawless Face Routine

I decided I wanted to start off with my foundation routine, since I work for an amazing make-up company that I absolutely love- Bare Escentuals.  Their make-up is amazing and if you haven't tried it, I highly suggest you do.  It is free of parabens, talc, and other chemicals that can harm our skin.  I love it and it feels so light and fresh on my skin.

1. Prime Time Oil Control Primer

This is amazing if you have oily skin.  It helps block excess oil and keeps make-up on all day without smudging or smearing.

2. SPF 20 Concealer and Concealer Brush

This concealer is the best I've ever tried!  It seriously covers up anything and everything you need covered.  Whenever I get a breakout I use this stuff and it is amazing!  It isn't cake-y and goes on super smooth.  I put it on with my concealer brush and love the way it blends right into my skin.

3. Stroke of Light

This product is a must have.  I use this under my eyes to conceal any dark circles (and we all know as students or anyone who gets up super early, we like anything that will conceal those circles!)  This does it!  It conceals and adds brightness and luminosity for a brightened, awakened complexion.

4. Matte Foundation

I love the matte version of Bare Minerals foundation because I have very oily skin.  The matte foundation absorbs excess oil and keeps my skin looking flawless!  They have a few different foundation finishes- Original (brightening, illuminating finish) Matte (Oil absorbing, flat finish) and READY(natural finish)

5. Faux Tan Face Color and Flawless Face Brush

This is much like a bronzer but I like it better because it looks super natural!  I like to use this when I contour my face (under my cheek bones, under my jaw, sides of my forehead) and it gives a very natural, defined finish.  I use the brush to apply it.

6. Aphrodisiac READY Blush

This is my favorite blush color- it is so similar to the popular "Orgasm" from NARS- a peachy, fresh color that looks perfect for everyday

7. READY Mineral Veil

This is a translucent finishing powder that I love, especially if you're oily.  It helps combat oil as well as smooth everything out.  It is perfect if you're needing to touch up your make-up throughout the day- if I ever feel I need a touch up, I just use this powder and my make-up looks good as new!

8.Well Rested Face and Eye Brightener

This is the last product I use for my foundation routine- I love it because it adds a hint of illumination and glow to my skin.  I use just a little bit and with my fingers, swipe a tiny bit down my nose, above my lip (it creates fuller lips) above my eyebrows and right on my cheek bones for a flawless, brightened and dewy look.

Thanks so much for reading! Xoxo

A New Blog, A First Post

Hello there!

My name is Kyla Jackson and in November of 2010 I married my very best friend!  I married at quite a young age and for me, was a bit of a difficult transition considering I went from graduating high school, living on my own for a bit and then making the biggest commitment of my life.  Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way!  I have had a passion for fashion since I was young- and ever since I can remember I've always loved dressing up.  I moved to Utah from Texas near the end of my sophomore year of high school, and I have to say it was the most difficult situation that's ever happened to me.  To move from all of my friends who made me happy, who I shared all of my secrets with and on the weekends, did everything with- I had to create a new life, and a new perspective.  I began to create my own sense of self worth, and learned who I really was.  I began to learn how to make myself happy without anyone or anything.  While that was such a difficult process for me, and while I didn't feel like I had the typical fun high school experience, I learned a lot about myself and about who I wanted to be.  Through that experience, I gained an even stronger love of fashion and expressing myself through the way that I dressed- it was kind of an outlet for me when I felt like I was struggling in a whole new environment.

I am now 20 years old, attending Utah Valley University majoring in Graphic Design.  I was a PR major but I love art so much and I have a strong love for the arts and design.  I've worked retail since I was 16 years old, and I now work as a make up artist for Bare Escentuals.  I love it and I love the girls I work with, and the relationships I build with women everyday.  My wonderful husband and I live in Springville, Utah and love to go to the gym together, watch movies, and enjoy any moment of free time we have together.

I have been procrastinating creating a blog for months and months.  I absolutely love getting inspiration from fellow bloggers and knew that someday, I would create my own.  I don't yet have a fancy camera, (I see a Canon t3i in my near future for Christmas... :) and so as of now, I just plan on posting pictures that inspire me.. while I wait for a new camera! :)

Her Chic Memoirs. A blog about style, fashion, fitness, beauty, love and every small and beautiful thing in life.