Hybrid Outfit: Black Sweater and African Print Skirt

It's been two weeks since I started working on the Growth Studio full time and I tell you, it's been busy. My house is still a mess and I still haven't gotten my nails done. These are a few of the things I wanted to do since I now have time but no, I still have so much to do to build the business. I think I finally have some time to squeeze in blogging. We'll see.

This is what I wore to church on Sunday. It's an American and African Hybrid.  There's a lot of creativity around styling the African print these days. The skirts are sometimes shorter in length and can be worn with a button down shirt, chambray, a tee or sweater, as in this case. And I'm loving my lipstick from Avon. I'm wearing the Cherry Jubilee Ultra Color Rich Lipstick. It's great for dark skin tones and lasts all day.

 Sweater - Old Navy

Skirt - Custom Made

Necklace  - Avon / Similar / Similar / Similar / Love this / And this

Bracelet - JCrew Factory / Similar
Shoes (hiding under skirt) - Nine West / Similar / Similar

Link ups: Passion for Fashion

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Don't Miss out on this Avon Sale

Avon is having a sale and free shipping too. Below are a few of my favorites from this month's catalog.  Check 'em out.  Happy Labor Day!

Imari Seduction Eau de Toilette Spray - Great perfume for day time Big and Daring Volume Mascara - Add length and volume to your lashes Ultra Color Bold Lipstick Anew Clinical Infinite Lift Serum - Lift sagging skin mark "Totally Charmed bracelet  mark "All around Style Scarf  Skin so Soft Firm and Restore Body Set - I love the body cleanser. It's a scrub and cleanser in one
Link ups: Glossy Blonde

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Avon Beauty and Style Picks

Have you shopped Avon lately? ever? Avon is still one of the best kept secrets when it comes to beauty products, due to the price point and quality. The foundation makeup has never failed me and I've used the skincare ever since I started as an Avon Representative many years ago. I currently use the Anew Day lotion shown. I switch between the many different types of foundation including the Smooth Minerals Powder and the CC cream (both shown).  Click on the products to check them out. What's your experience with Avon Products?

Ideal Flawless Concealer Stick -$4.99
Smooth Minerals Pressed Foundation -$7.99
Anew REVERSALIST COMPLETE RENEWAL Day Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 25 -$32.00
Mark On The Dot Neutral Eye Color Compact -$16.00 P
avé Reversible Layered Necklace -$12.99
Avon Pro Kabuki Brush -$6.99
Ideal Flawless CC Color Corrector Cream -$8.99
Mark Berry Stylish Sandals -$34.00
Extra Lasting Lipstick -$7.99

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Q+A : Getting to know me

I was relaxing with my April issue of People Style Watch magazine on Friday and enjoyed reading the question and answer session with Gabrielle Union. I decided to provide my own answers to the same questions so you can get to know me a little better. So here goes:

 

What are your fave Jeans?

My favorite jeans are from Jean Star. I got them from TJ Maxx years ago and cannot find the brand anywhere. They play up my hips and just fit everywhere. They are really old now so I'm looking for a replacement. Worn here.

 

How do you play up your eyes?

I line my eyes with Avon's Glimmersticks eyeliner in blackest black. That's the makeup item I can't do without

 

I can sum up my music playlist in three words 

Israel Houghton, Hillsong, Mandisa

 

Who are you loving on Instagram?

Gbemisoke: Love her hashtags. No one does hashtags like she does

Erica Campbell: Love her music, style and makeup. All lip colors look great on her. Wish I could pull that off 

Weddingdigestnaija: This is a Nigerian Wedding account. You gotta love Nigerian weddings: the bridal makeup, wedding party attire, couple dances...you have to check it out. No one does weddings like Nigerians
 

What's your trick for getting out the door and still looking great? 

For my face, foundation and eyeliner. The foundation brightens up my face and wearing eyeliner opens up my eyes.  I wear a dress (no mixing and matching required) and low heels or wedges when I'm in a hurry.

 

How would you describe your style?

My style is simple, a little on the modest side and a little trendy. I do keep up with trends...colored skinnies, florals, peplums, color blocking, you name it. But cropped tops and Aztec leggings...no way.

 

 

Link ups: Random Wednesday    

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Avon AeroVolume Mascara Review + Giveaway {2 Winners}

AeroVolume Mascara

Plush, weightless formula banishes midday droop with plumped-up volume. Smudge-proof, waterproof and clump-resistant.

Price: intro special $5.99

This mascara does just what is says. It lengthens, adds volume and wakes up the eyes. I've been wearing it all week. I use three coats to get the desired effect.  I'm giving away two of the mascaras plus two $25 TJ Maxx Gift Cards as a thank you for following my blog and also for supporting my Avon business. I earn these gift cards from Avon for selling a certain amount each year. I also get to earn a free trip each year. I did not earn my trip this year. I hope you can continue to support my business so I can earn my trip next year and also bring you an awesome giveaway. Enter via the Rafflecopter widget below.
      Win the AeroVolume Mascara + a $25 TJ Maxx Gift Card {2 Winners}

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Five Uses and Benefits of Lip Liner

I used lipstick for many years long before I was introduced to this beauty product called a lip liner by my sister in law. I had been slapping on the lipstick and not liking the way it looked on me. I ended up staying away from wearing lipstick, especially brighter colors. Once I started using lip liners, I came to fully embrace wearing lipstick. Here's why you need lip liner, in case you don't use it (you don't know what you're missing) or not sure how to use it. 

1. The main reason for using a lip liner is to define the lips. When you wear lipstick or lip gloss, a defined lips look much better and more appealing.

2. Line your lips with a lip liner to prevent your lipstick from bleeding out of the lip area. 

3. Line your lips with a liner to change the appearance and size of your lips. Line inside your natural lip line to make them look smaller and if you have big lips, line a little outside of your natural lip area. This is my main reason for using a lip liner all the time. I use it to minimize my big lips.

Bonus: Wear a lighter lip color to make lips look bigger and a darker color to make them look smaller. 

4. A lip liner can also be used to fill in the lip area prior to applying lipstick. This makes your lipstick or gloss last longer as it helps it adhere to your lips. To do this, fill in the entire lip area lightly prior to lining the lips

5. I use a lip liner as a substitute for lipstick or a lip gloss. Line your lips, fill in the lip area (optional) and apply clear lipgloss or vaseline.

Bonus Tips

• You do not have to be scared to use a lip liner. The trick is proper blending after you have applied your liner and lipstick (or lip gloss) to make the line "invisible". A perfectly lined lip should not show traces of the lip liner.
• Use a color slightly darker than the color of the lipstick you will be wearing. 
• Can't find the perfect shade? Mix two different color lip liners to get the perfect shade. 
• Need a darker shade? Venture into the eyeliner shades. My everyday lip liner is actually the cosmic brown shade in the Avon eyeliner line. I've always had a hard time finding a dark lip liner shade to match my skin tone.

Tell me, do you use lip liner? Can't do without it? never tried it? Please contact me if you would love more tips on using this essential beauty product.

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Flawless Face and Bright Eyes with Avon

Here are some great products from Avon to help you achieve a flawless face and bright eyes. 

1. Magix Face Perfector 2. Genics Eye Cream 3. Glimmersticks Eye Liner 4. Mega Effects Mascara 

5. Color Corrector (CC Cream)

1. After moisturizing, apply the Magix Face Perfector. It absorbs oil and acts as a primer.

2. The eye cream diminishes wrinkles and reduces dark circles.

3. Apply the eyeliner to define and open up the eyes. 

4. The Mega Effects mascara lengthens your lashes and further opens up the eyes

5. The Color Corrector Cream conceals dark spots and corrects them over time. It also provides medium coverage and contains SPF 50 for sun protection

Which one would you like to try? These are all available now at the Avon Store. 

Link ups: Beauty Buzz

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Avon Gift Guide 2013

Here are a few of my picks from the Avon Christmas Catalog.
Receive a $5 Target gift card with every $30 Online order from now till Nov 30. 

 Stocking Stuffers


Hand Creams | Shower Gels  | Lip Balms | Bubble Bath



Pamper Sets and Sleep Wear


Plaid and Polka Dot Sleep Set | Foot Works Pedi Set | Sleep Tee Set | Slippers 



Kids 


Sofia the First Watch | HoodedTowel | Remote Control Car | Pet Puppy | Sofia the First Cuddle Pillow


Fashion


mark Say Pleats Dress | Paula Abdul Burgundy Boots | Forever Platform Sandals | Scarf Set | Studded Booties



Jewelry and Watches



NFL Logo Watch | Bangles | Bold Black and Gold Watch | Textured Hinged Watch

Avon
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What I'm Loving this Week

Happy Friday everyone. Just wanted to share a few things I'm loving, wishing for, or already own and use. 

1. Teal Ankle Strap Pumps - These have made their way into my closet and they are really cute and comfortable. They also look better in person.

2. Skinny Jeans - I think I've found another brand of jeans that fit my body type. I'm loving the DKNY Brand. Mid rise, fits everywhere, right amount of stretch...just perfect. My purple skinnies are also DKNY. 

3.  Long Sleeve Textured Peplum - This is on my wish list but may get sold out soon. Too pricey for me right now. I love the texture and I love anything peplum.

4. mark Powder Buff Foundation - This works as a concealer, foundation and powder. This is what I use when I'm rushing out of the house in the morning. I apply two layers and I'm good to go.
5. Sparkler Bracelet - These bracelets make the perfect gift. I own the one in rose gold. Layer with a boyfriend watch or wear alone.
6. Mark Say Pleats Dress - A burgundy dress is perfect for that holiday party.
7. Scarf Set - You can never own too many scarves. Leopard, Teal and Orange...These are great colors to update any outfit.

Link ups: Favorite Fashion Friday, Friday's Fab Link Up, All Things Chic

Thanks for Reading

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How to Use and Care for Makeup Brushes

You gotta use the right tools for the job right? Here are tips on how to use and care for your make up brushes. If you don't use or have any, you could win the set shown or purchase here. Owning these five basic brushes will make your makeup application easier and help you achieve the perfect, flawless look.

mark Pro Brush Set - $28

1. Powder Brush - Use this to apply face powder, loose or compact. The brush helps spread the powder evenly and lightly over the entire face. You can also limit your application of powder to your forehead, cheeks and chin. By the way, powder helps control oil and set your makeup.

2. Blush / Bronzer Brush- Ditch the tiny brush that comes with your blush and use this instead to apply blush on your cheek bones. It helps provide more coverage and precise application. This brush can also be used to apply bronzer.

3. Eyeshadow Brush - Again, the little eyeshadow sponge that comes with your eyeshadow will not provide enough coverage and blendability you need. The eyeshadow brush helps prevent tugging of your eyelids and aids blending the shadow in so that no streaks or lines appear.

4. Concealer Brush - This is used to apply concealer under the eyes and on dark spots on the face. The brush is made of firm nylon bristles for flawless coverage. Use the specially-designed flat side for overall even blending, and the tapered point for precise spot application.

5. Eyeliner brush - This is used to apply eyeshadow on your lash line if you prefer not to use a pencil eyeliner. The eyeliner brush is also used to blend in your pencil eyeliner to give a smudged smoky eye effect. This brush can also be used for on the eyebrows.

Brush Care

Your make up brush can be a breeding ground for bacteria so they need to be washed regularly. You also need to wash your brushes for them to work well and so that product can go on your skin smoothly.
I care for my brushes in the simplest way. Fill a little container with handsoap, then with water and swish your brushes in the soap water. Do this a few times till no more residue is evident. Rinse by swishing in water and lay flat to dry for 24 hours on a paper towel.

Win your own set of brushes and other makeup products (Your color choice of Beauty Balm, Eyeshadow, Mega Effects mascara and gel nail polish) here.

Brought to you by Avon: Buy / Sell / Contact

Linking up with All Things Chic, My Thrifty Chic

Avon Beauty Innovations + a Giveaway

Here are four relatively new and innovative Avon Products that I love and would love to share with you. I use all four products and I must say I'm really pleased with them (read more below). Two lucky winners will each receive all four products in the color of their choice and the first Place winner receive a set of brushes in addition.

1. Beauty Balm - I use this and love it. Read more about the benefits here

2. Mega Effects Mascara - I love how this mascara extends and curls my lashes. I have small eyes and I love how the mascara opens them up. Read my full review here

3. True Color Eyeshadow- This is an update from the older eyeshadows. The colors last all day and are more vivid. 

4. Gel Finish Nail Enamel - I wore the Berry color and it lasted for a week with one touch up. I wash my hands all the time. I currently have my toes painted also and it's been three weeks and counting.

Enter Giveaway Below:

First Place winner will win these brushes too!

mark Full Service 5-Piece Pro Brush Set - $28

Linking up with All Things Chic

and Simply Lulu Style

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Mega Effects Mascara Review + a $30 Giveaway

It's here! Avon's new Mega Effects Mascara offers phenomenal panoramic volume and transforms lashes form corner to corner.
Here's my honest review. I've tried it and I love it. It does lengthen and curl my lashes and opens up my eyes. I still see some length after I take it off. The only thing I'll say is that I don't see much volume; my lashes are not thick to begin with. It is easy to use and covers the whole lash area with one sweep. It   lengthens my lashes so much that they touch my eyelids so I try not to blink for a few seconds after applying the mascara. If you hate false lashes like I do, this is a great alternative.

 Enter below to win the MegaEffects Mascara and $30 Avon Credit

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THE BB Cream (Beauty Balm) + Two Giveaways

Ever heard of BB Cream? It's the latest innovation...makeup with skin care benefits. The lightweight texture and SPF 15 make it perfect for summer.

Q.

What is BB Cream
A. BB Cream, short for Beauty Balm Cream, combines moisturizer, treatment, broad-spectrum SPF and lightweight foundation. It's the latest beauty all-in-one wonder!
Q.How is BB cream different from a foundation or a tinted moisturizer?
A. It offers more coverage than a tinted moisturizer and less coverage than a foundation. With its SPF benefits and light weight, BB Cream is perfect for summer. Because it combines a moisturizer and foundation, it's a great one-step product for gals on the go.
Q. When is it used? How is it applied?
A. Use BB Cream in place of, or in addition to, daily moisturizer. Apply with ­ fingertips or a foundation brush.
Q. What are the benefits of Ideal Flawless BB Cream?
A. It's available in 5 shades and because of its light texture, each shade works for several skin tones. After one week of use, skin looks better and healthier, even after you take it off.^†
†Based on those who expressed an opinion in a consumer-perception study.

new IDEAL FLAWLESS BB Beauty Balm Cream

A new skin-enhancing sensation, where makeup multi-taskers join skin care benefits to conceal, hydrate, perfect and protect. Lightweight coverage. 1 fl. oz. Into Special $7.99

10-IN-1 BEAUTY BALM for COMPLEXION PERFECTION
1 INFUSED WITH VITAMIN E
2 INFUSED WITH MINERALS AND ANTIOXIDANTS
3 HYDRATES SKIN
4 EVENS SKIN TONE
5 VISIBLY MINIMIZES REDNESS
6 CONCEALS FLAWS
7 LIGHTWEIGHT FEEL
8 SMOOTHES SKIN
9 SPF 15 PROTECTION
10 SKIN LOOKS BETTER—EVEN AFTER REMOVING†

Ask me for your free sample! Order here

AVON Beauty: Shop/Sell/Contact

Win a $25 Gap/Old Navy Gift Card + $25 Avon Credit + a Polka Dot Scarf in my Blogiversary Giveaway. Enter Here

Win the Avon Clearkin Skincare Set for Oily Skin. Enter Here