Hi Guys!
So my husband and I will be traveling for the holidays and since I know so many of you will also be going out for the holidays...because it's Christmas and New Years! whether it be by road or plane...I wanted to share some packing tips and tricks with you!
As time comes near, ill be doing a whats in my luggage-hand carry post with pictures! Until then, become a pro packer!
I've learned not to over pack...but I don't under pack either so here are some tricks.
“he who would travel happily must travel light.”
-antoine de saint-exupéry
Today I'm bringing you that lovely butter chicken recipe!
I've had my fair share of butter chicken in my life...The only ones I've tried and loved is my mom's Kabab bistro's in Richmond, and Sabri in chicago!
It's one of those desi dishes that not everyone has heard of or knows where to get...it also can be quite pricey at restaurants because of it's uniqueness!
Hi my loves!
I'm a active Cartwheel App User and I cannot tell you how crazy sometimes the deals are on there...I've saved a ton of money for little home things, and my sweet cravings.
As of october 1, target launched a secret link for carthweel....you get 50% off on your coffee! So no Lattes, frappes etc...but it's ok! it's totally worth it!
Do you know what the best part it is? The cartwheel offers are usually only a week-two weeks long but this one expires October 31st!(started on the 1st)
Let me tell you something...my mom is an amazing cook. That being said, She never taught me how to cook, I just watched and learned on my own.
I've made one or two things here and there but I first started cooking desi food when I got married almost four months ago. My husband is a huge foodie, he's one of those people that likes the "extra" ingredients in foods and most of the time needs hot sauce with his food. My recipes are not mimicked from YouTube videos, TV, or cookbooks. I simply believe to make desi food the same main five to six ingredients go in every dish in the same order! I haven't made one disappointing dish yet, and I hope I never do! I'm glad I have an eye for food and flavor like my mother. We learned on our own and that is what makes us such great wives! I have no idea why moms take sometimes all day to cook, because I cook my food in half the time! So if you’re looking for a quick fun dish to try, look no further!
Hello Everyone!
I've thought about getting back into blogging because so much has changed since I last blogged, and it seems like it's going to hold me up and be my back bone!
Just a brief update on being MIA for almost two years...I last blogged in Feb 2014. My dad got sick a few days after. From Feb-May we were in and out of the hospital everyday. I got engaged in April to the love of my life as my father last wishes! I had three and a half days to plan a small engagement as my father really wanted to give me away as he knew how crushed I was going to be come my wedding day. He passed in May, and my life changed forever. I've been moving in and out of home the past year and half even in different states, and it really has taken a toll on me. But i'm finally settled in! I just got married This past June on my husband's birthday with our family and Friends blessings. I am now back in Chicago...Skokie to be exact! I was born and raised in chicago so I'm totally looking forward to the winter!*Sarcasm*
So yes that was my life update in the past two years. :)
Hi My Loves!
I recently got a haircut. I hadn't cut my hair in a year till Feb, Got a trim and bangs. Then Before June got another trim. I recently went super dramatic with my hair, decided not to get any length off but get lots of layers. If you know me well enough I'm super attached to my hair and went crazy when I chopped it off. I have an emotional problem with anything happening to my hair. Till this day I have to get permission 10 million times from my parents to get a haircut...god knows what I will come out looking like!
Myths on WHY you should get a haircut...
1. If you keep trimming your hair, it will grow faster. NO this is not true! your hair grows from the roots not the ends. Your scalp needs to be nourished from the roots not the end!
2.Get a hair cut IF you have split ends...Okay, So I just started getting split ends about 2 years ago because I have had to use hair dryers and straighteners on my hair about once a week etc. Honestly if you are using too much heat and I can notice you have split ends, then yes please go get a trim. Or else, it's not a big deal. Just get a trim 3-4 months.
How to know it's time for a haircut...
1.If you have medium to long hair and your roots are starting to look flat you probably need to put in 1-2 top long layers of roots in. If you don't like the layered look and are scared someone might cut it wrong, just say you want "long layers" it will look healthy. I advice get bangs or shorter layers so your hair doesn't bring down your face.
2.Split ends
3.Changing season. My hair acts differently through all the seasons. I also take care of it differently in each season. Just like we moisturize more when we have dry skin in the winter. I keep myself up to date at all times, it's the fun in life!
Haircuts for Fall 2013
Short hair
A Line Bobs are so in! especially the Longer A line Bobs
Pixie Cut
Medium Hair
Round forehead bangs and long layered Curls for Fall
Long Hair
With so much Regret in my heart, unfortunately Ombre is still in and lots of people are doing it wrong. I have long hair, so I went the choppy layered route. Here is my Haircut as well as Long haircuts for Fall/Winter 2013!
Lots of Layers and long bangs
Deep Side parts with medium sized bangs if you don't want to get layers
LOVE my hair! Really needed a change and lots of layers.
I hope this helped everyone decided what look they can go for this Fall and winter.
I'll be posting a skin routine update and Haul soon. Have bought lots of goodies this past month that I will be wearing while traveling and throughout Fall. Until Next time :)
**Let me just rant about NSYNC! omg! can't believe they performed!!!!! I died!!!! Justin was already sexy but them performing for 15 seconds was such a tease**
Okay, Here is the list :)
Best dressed
Love the colors and fit!
.
I actually really like her in this Prabul Gurung gown, she looks so classy! But the material looks like a trash bag.
The He'rve Leger dress looked great, but tired of her old hollywood look. And did she sleep with the camera man? Because she was the only one shown throughout the VMA's *Just sayin*
Rita Ora in Alexander V Couture....LOVE the color and style. Haven't seen this color in a while on the red carpet :)
Jennifer Hudson, Can't ever go wrong in Houndstooth print. But maybe to black tie affair for the VMA's
JT-Looked sexy as hell. oh my.
Always cute, but would've loved to see her in something besides floral
Worst Dressed
I really don't know what to say...and what the hell was she doing to Robin Thicke while performing.
This was a hit or miss for me, I felt there was too much going on, and too many types of texture. Maybe her hair could've been up and the gown could have been sleeveless.
Ciara, Looks like a lama got hit by a car. Hair and gown matching isn't always SO beautiful.
I'm sorry, Do you want me to hand you a pool of water? Swimsuit type of attire for red carpet...NONO!
Lil kim's camel toe...and camel colored shoes. And everything else.
I'm sorry, Do you want me to hand you a pool of water? Swimsuit type of attire for red carpet...NONO!
Lil kim's camel toe...and camel colored shoes. And everything else.
Looked like she was trying to go for a Manroe look...didn't suit for this years VMA's
I know this is the time where many of us will be traveling the most, and taking small trips whether it be a road trip, cruise etc...so here are some ideas on what to pack!
This summer I had to force myself to pack minimal as possible so I don't overwhelm myself when getting dressed to go out during vacation.
What to consider when packing clothes
- Is it a road trip? Are you flying by plane? How many different locations are you going to?
If it's a road trip and plane ride you want to be comfy as possible. Keep in mind when it's super hot outside, that AC will be blasting!
An Item I always bring with me no matter what where I'm traveling to is a light weight cardigan. I get cold easily, and since its summer the AC will cool you down and you will freeze your but off like I did!
-Weather~What's the whether transition like?
-Style in the region you will be going to~This sounded a bit weird, but I know what trends are going on in what region at all times since I work in retail and I always match my vacation wardrobe up to the city and location I'm in!
*Always plan your outfits out, at least a little bit so it is easier to pack accessories and shoes*
How to use one clothing item in multiple ways!
Ever been scared to do this? I'm a huge victim of not repeating certain clothing items in my life for some crazy reasons and always end up buying everything new for a trip!
Color-Add color to your wardrobe! For the longest time*I still do* wear blacks, grays, whites and nudes only! I've learned to always have a pop of color in my outfit whether it be my accessories, handbag, or shoes.
Pants/Shorts-If you are going for a 2-4 days, pack one pair of shorts and one pair of cropped pants.
5-10 days-2-3 cropped pants 2-3 shorts
I always do this so I can bring the right amount of tops that will go with these particular bottoms I choose to bring so I don't have to worry about "choices" because when packing, you should already know what***Outfit*** you will be wearing for what day!
Airport Outfit ideas
-I love dressing comfy, BUT I am one of those woman who walks around in heels at the airport. lol!
-I wear designer flip flops/flats and usually change into heels before I land, or have my heels on through the whole trip. Depends where I am traveling to and who I will see.
I wore a horizontal striped maxi skirt with a black knit half sleeves top and a pair of my TB sandals.
On my trip, I had these orange/coral pants and paired it with a leopard lined button down top, and a black quarter sleeve cardigan. I'm the last person on earth to do such matchy matchy outfits! I didn't want to wear black bottoms because a. was too hot outside and b.It's summer, so I needed some color! Below, is the outfit I wore, and I put a few gold bracelets and dual tone watch on. I paired it with a block print brown and black pair of wedges(first wedges I owned, never liked them, but now I'm in love with these shoes) that are an ankle strap, *Totes in style at the moment*
Rule of fashion*Black and brown only go together if it's block print or leopard* I really don't think black and brown pieces look good separately at all! It can add attention in unwanted areas and we don't want that ladies!
*Colors and prints for the summer anyone can pull off!*
Cobalt and Royal blue
Coral with an orange undertone
small prints to minimize our bodies such as leopard, hounds tooth and chevron(transitional print to fall)
block prints(especially for shoes)
paisley(I don't really do floral, but make sure its a smaller print if it a pair of floral pants etc)
Mint green(looks great with golds and browns)
Hope this helps you guys! I know there are many of you going off to college and are having a hard time packing as well, just add on to the amount and think of the upcoming weather, and when you will be coming home next to get another amount and what you can PUT back of(summer clothes from college) to make easier moving out better :)
Hi my loves!
The whole month of June I was so busy with my best friends wedding and of course a lot of other traveling! I lived out of my suitcase all last month...I went on a few trips..my trip with my sister I took less hair tools because we both brought half and half. The perks of having a sister!
I was a typical girl. *Always over packed*
Nothing wrong with that...except if you are short and fragile like me, you don't want to carry much through security check, or have lots of luggage in a hotel room. I hate losing things when I'm traveling, so I try keeping everything in one carry on, maximum if I go somewhere for a week.
What to pack
Beauty Essentials
1. Moisturizer-I always pack a small travel size one. I moisturize a lot, especially while on the plane, and before I get ready for my day and when I end my night after taking my makeup off.
2. Makeup brushes-Honestly you only need but so many! I always take my best ones and make sure I can disinfect them to use for other makeup purposes. Some I take are, my beauty blender(instead of a foundation brush), 1 blending brush, a contour brush, a tapered blush brush(used to blend out contour and full face), 2-3 shadow brushes(flat, smokey eye tapered brush), and 1-2 different sized stippling brushes to blend everything out!
3.Foundation/Concealer-I usually take one. If you can find a plastic container to pour it into, just the amount you will need...you will save a lot of room! Sometimes I have to do that because my foundations are super expensive and I don't want the glass bottle to burst while **on the plane** But! Sometimes I'll take the bottle and keep it in my makeup bag which stays in my purse! As far as it goes for concealer I brought 3-4 different ones with me depending on how bright or natural I wanted my highlight to be.
5.Blotting sheets!-If you don't know what those are you live in a hole! these are the best, I always blot only because my skin does get oily because it's so hot outside. I'm not a huge fan of using much powder unless it's to quickly sweep to set my foundation or if it's for a wedding. Here is where you can find some! You want to stay matte as possible.
6.Eyeshadow pallets-This is that hardest! I have more shimmer eyeshadow pallets than anything..This time when I flew I took my Naked pallet and some other small single eyeshadows that I know I was going to use. If your eyeshadow comes off easily and you don't wear much, try the COLOR TATTOO they are awesome! Nice shimmer, and creaseless! (Can be used as a primer for heavy eyemakeup)
7.Highlight-For those of you that highlight and contour use your eyeshadows as a contour! In my tarte eyeshadow pallet(sold out) there is this beautiful white highlight color! I use that when I don't want to carry around my MAC, Sephora, YSL Highlighters.
8.I did bring a brush cleaner with me also, it's just a spray. I'm really crazy about using a clean brush because I wouldn't want to break out. **Setting spray** is a must for your makeup! no matter how much or how little you put on! Lock that makeup in girl!
9.Makeup Wipes-oh hello...these are a MUST! Usually when you are on vacation your gonna go all out with your makeup, so gently use the wipe to take off eye makeup before you wash your face. *I don't use makeup wipes on my full face, its a risk of breaking out if you do it too much*
Toiletries
1. Buy everything travel sized!!! Trust me, you won't need much and everything mostly costs $1 anyway!
2.Shampoo-I took my big and sexy volumizing kit with me. I had the shampoo, conditioner, and volumizing gel I used the days I was out.
3.Body wash
4. Disposable toothbrush/Toothpaste/Mouthwash-I brought my electric toothbrush only because it had a slim case. Colgate mouth wash and 3D white toothpaste. I also used a whitening gel pen every night before sleeping
4. Exfoliate-Since it was super hot where I was, I brought a disposable exfoliating cloth I used for body washes. That can be found at your nearest Walmart!
Hair Care
I don't use much heat in my hair through summer. Unfortunately I had to in the month of June with all the festivities going on. I brought my hair dryer, straightener, and one curling iron with me. **If you are going to a friends or family's home, you should try not to bring a blow dryer and straightener, because most likely they have one, and it will save you PLENTY of room for other things you want to pack!
**I did use conditioner everyday when I was on vacation along with Moroccan and Argan oil**
How to pack
Now that it's been 2 years since I don't **Over pack** I feel so much better when I fly knowing I don't need to check in a bag or have much to carry. But my carry on ends up being super heavy!
-Clothes-ROLL your clothes don't fold them! Also, if you are going on a trip for more than a week, I suggest you invest in some space saving bags...When I moved to Chicago it was a LIFESAVER! I mean it, I'm glad I had thought of the idea. You wouldn't want your nice blouses, shalwar kurthas, and sarees getting stuck right?
-Makeup-I **Always** section my makeup off in different cosmetic bags(Chanel/YSL). Eyeshadows, setting spray etc in a larger slim bag. And my toiletries usually go in a plastic cosmetic bag, because in case it spills in the luggage of carry on...girl you are screwed!
-Jewelry-I take very minimal. This time I took the small dainty diamond my boyfriend has gifted me in the past and a watch. I knew I wouldn't wear a bunch of things because it was so hot. I was gifted my MK watch, and Givenchy studs so I was wearing those as well! (Put my jewelry in a plastic cosmetic bag as well)
I was totally againest BB creams. I think I might still be!
What is a BB cream (CLICK HERE) Beauty balm!! use it ladies!!!
I use lighter coverage foundations usually since I don't need much coverage...OR I would mix a white moisturizer and some concelar together and wear that through the day, just so I could get more coverage since I get redness in the mornings.
Why use a BB cream? It evens out your skin complexion and most of the time covers the redness you have.
Revlon Photoready BB cream: I have used 2 of the "photoready foundations" and I really like this line from revlon because when set with a translucent powder, it photographs great! I have tried the Maybeline BB cream(nasty and CAKEY!) and Garnier...and I'm not really a fan of it. Honestly just use it as a primer if you have them so you don't throw it away! Anyway, Revlon BB cream goes on more as a foundation and gives GREAT coverage!
Packaging: Love that it's a tube, and it could pass for a high end BB cream
Price: Bought it for about $11
How to apply: Use your clean fingers to apply the smallest amount! (you can use the narrow foundation brush also, the ones you use for primer and BB creams.)
So this is how it looked begining of the day...I had no concealer or setting powder on.
About 11 Hours later, so right now this is what it looks like at 11pm
Okay not sure why this picture isn't clear! sorry
I get an oily T-zone so this didn't make me oily first few hours but I did get oily eventually and didn't blot. You don't need to use a primer with this, a good translucent powder will work with this. I didn't use it because I wanted to do a proper review showing how it works with other things packed on my skin.
Overall review: Love this BB cream...If you are looking for a cream with heavier coverage there is Tarte BB cream BUT since I don't wear makeup everyday and my natural skin looks basically the same with this cream on...I probably won't use it much.
What the BB cream is good for: In the summer, you want to use less heat in your hair and try not wearing heavy makeup that slips and slides while you are at an amusement park or pool party. That's where BB creams play a role! It takes away redness and evens skin out, just what you need for a hot summer day!
I hope this helped for those looking to try BB creams, and for those who want a everyday makeup alternative...Please feel free to email or comment for any questions and high end BB cream suggestions
I've been MIA for about a month and a half but if you missed me keep reading on what I will be posting soon about!
Late May, I was busy with my friend's court marriage, and then I went out of town for a little getaway and then was heavily occupied for about a week for my best friend's wedding...
Keep a look out in the next two weeks for some posts...Trying to catch up on sleep and recover from my month of traveling..Literally lived out of my Suitcase and cosmetic bags, and I have lost so many things too!:(
Some Posts to look out for...
-Maybeline FIT me foundation review
-Beauty Blender usage and review
-OOTD's and OOTN's
-Travel essentials and "rules"
- Updated Makeup routine and process for Hot heat
-Revlon Photoready BB Cream
-Shopping Hauls for last minute things at the destination
-All Wedding details and Clothes worn throughout
- & lots more!
Thank you for checking in! :)
Hi Loves!
I've been so busy lately! So much preparation to do before my friends wedding. Will be doing a second part of the wedding series maybe when I'm out of town soon!
Why Forecast?
When I was in middle school, I took one of my first fashion classes and the art classes I took really has shaped me into HOW I think about fashion NOW.
I forecast a year ahead, and I'm always a season ahead. **Unless it snows in April or something weird like that!** I really can't help but dress different than others do. I think a lot of girls that are into fashion have a very general idea of fashion, put basic pieces together and but a bold necklace or accessory on and say it's such a sassy outfit and it's so 'IN'
Well...to each his own! I prefer wearing what is in my STYLE. I like to think of my mind as always on the go and always thinking of trends to set. For example, those colored jeans came in style around last year and I had been wearing them for such a long time with dressy tops. I love the typical stores to shop at but let be honest...it really depends in the area you live in. I travel a lot, so when I go into the malls I definitely know who is ahead and who is behind. New York, Chicago, Dallas, and California are ALWAYS ahead.
BUT what 1 think people don't realize is, if you live in Atlanta, you shouldn't really wear something they wear in Texas. I know everyone has their own style but I wish some would go the extra mile and put themselves together rather than following a trend that probably they shouldn't be wearing. Can you believe 'tights' or 'leggings' are still in? YES they are SO convenient BUT so many women wear them as pants(semi sheer type) and they have no idea when light shines through you can see everything! Did you also know it's bad for you're muscles and is a factor in why you might be gaining weight? I'm not telling you not to wear them, just don't wear them to the point where you look in your closet and that is the only bottom you have worn in a week!
I don't think trends are as important as people make them seem, its the style that counts. Style you're favorite pieces according to you're body type. Moving on! Here are some trends that are in right now and because 99% of us are probably not like these models...here are some tips on what to look for when you buy the item!
What you should buy this summer...
PEPLUM TOPS
Do you want to have an hour glass figure? This top is for you! I personally am not to fond of MANY peplum tops but their are a few I am happy with. Since I am a little busty I think the peplum style can make you look a lot chunkier than you might be as it can look your chest and stomach are connected and you have no waist. With any top you wear, you're waist should always apparent! One key detail to look for in a peplum top is to make sure it has a seam, and that the seam is the lowest it can got towards the bottom. PLEASE try on peplum tops, and from what I know and what my friends say, peplum tops do run small. The reason you want to make sure the seam of the peplum is low because the higher up the seam the more you upper body will be prominent. If you are busty and are trying to hide the stomach area DO use a THIN belt to cinch in the waist to give more of an hour glass figure shape. Peplum tops look only good with skinny jeans/pants and tapered dress pants!
BLACK AND WHITE
Black and white in my case has NEVER gone out of style. You can usually see I'm in this combo all the time! I love black and white, it's so classy! I think of Jackie O' when I wear this color combo. Keep it classy for the summer. This is great for a party outback with a derby theme and for a date night out. Love those shades! Need to go buy myself a pair. With classic white pieces pair bold accessories. Some of my favorite black and white prints are Damask, Chequers, Polka dots and a lace over lay on either color!
ROYAL BLUE
This color is perfect on everyone! I have been wearing this color forever, slowly transitioning from Cobalt blue cardigans to gowns! Many people mistake this for royal blue. I'm not too fond of the royal blue as it is too dark for me but is a good basic color...*only acceptable for denim* THIS is a the pop of color every girl needs! This is a type of outfit I would wear for date night. A very classic umpire fitting A line strapless dress. Try finding a few cobalt blue pieces for the summer, you won't be sorry! So much to pair up with, it looks great with Coral pinks and reds!
TROUSERS
I'm really not sure WHY designers have decided NOW to make trousers so apparent and act like it's a new thing. When I first got into fashion all I wore was pencil legged trousers! I may not fit into them but let me tell you! So much better than tights or leggings! My fave. A common way many go wrong doing is picking the wrong size and shape for trousers. Make sure it's slimming. If you have a heavy mid area and are busty, AVOID pleats on your trousers OR any pants you own! It will make you look bigger than you are. I have seen a lot of printed trousers and *Harem pants*, not too fond of. Unfortunately I was blessed with a bigger back side and when wearing them a little high up it can just look so wrong! If you style ANYTHING the right way you can always pull off the look!
CHUNKY ACCESSORIES
Chunky accessories such as, Rings, Bold necklaces and arm cuffs are a great way to add to a very BASIC outfits and make it very edgy. As seen above, a skull knuckle ring and a chunky gold cuff is great for this look! I love investing in silver and gold pieces and throw them on! Make sure you don't go overboard with it, it can sometimes look too much!
Their are a lot more trends I would like to share with you so stay updated! If you have any questions, as usual email me and I will get back to you!
Xo Anum
Hi my loves!
Today's blog is about small bumps, small and big breakouts, teenage skin, scarring and what face washes you can use to help with you're Dry,Oily or Combination skin!
My story...
I've been really blessed to not have breakouts as a teenager but growing up I've had scarring if I've tried picking at incoming zits!!! I mean I'm not sure if it was a cyst or pimple etc but most of the time it would be a white head! I would actually clean it for two or three days and see if the pain and redness reduced...and I would pop it then because I needed a flawless face for an event!
I seriously learned this from my sister! She is so big on taking black heads out, and trying to pick at a pimple! Although she uses the clairisonic she no longer has that problem!
So anyway, overtime my scarring has reduced significantly and that makes me so happy! I do wash my face 1-2 times a day, with a really good face wash. I used to have dry dry dry skin, like sometimes my forehead would get flaky(reason why I still never put makeup on past my eyebrows) and now my skin is a tiny bit oily, and sometimes it's just normal skin. I seriously rather have that than dry skin!
From a young age, my mom has taught my sister and I to put face lifting and firming creams on...I believe I've been using them since I was 13! But this Past year I have been lacking on keeping up with it because the ones my mom and I use are expensive! Drugstore all the way!
I've also noticed my skin has become a lot more pale since August, and it might be because of the medicines I've been taking or just because I'm really taking care of myself. DRINK WATER! eat healthy!
**I'm doing this blog because a little over a year ago was the last time I had incoming break outs!
I've been under a lot of stress lately because of finals, graduation and just a few other things and I notice my skin getting a little red in areas now before I have a wedding!**
Friday night's Outfit and Makeup!
I wore a yellow block print Kaftan(Kurta style) with a Hot pink Churidaar.
I know everyone refers to the "top" are a kurti, but the definition of that is a shorter version of a Kurtha which is not what this is. Therefore, Kaftan is a long loose top/dress!
I really don't wear too many bright colors, so this was a little out of my comfort zone. But I loved that it was block printed only on the back and a panel in the front! Although in American fashion I'm not seeing much block print anymore, just remember to always apply American fashion to desi fashion! I'm sure that's what the designer of this Kaftan also had in mind! I love the vibrant colors on the back and the fact the print isn't too big. Although this kaftan wasn't tailored for my body, I felt more comfortable being this loose rather than a little bit more fitted! This Kaftan does have button down the middle, but for show. and a Floral print on one side which you will see in a later picture.
The Material is a Malai Georgette Cloth. SO comfortable!
Makeup Of the Night
I chose to do a semi dramatic look because of the occasion it was at church. Knowing my mood I even go in a dress, or pencil skirt and top while others are dressed up in traditional clothing! I did a Navy blue and black smokey eye with a smoked out blue lash line and hot pink in the inner corners so my eyes do not look too small.
I went for the barbie doll look with the dark eyes and baby pink lips! I think it turned out better than I expected. Since I needed to dress it up, I added big earrings to the look that have a yellow green stone in the middle as well as the bottom.
Finished look after getting ready.
Jewelry
-Earrings
-Anniversary Ring
-Mom's Watch
