Motivational Monday: Push Yourself

When college students are looking to me for career advice, I am blunt (as opposed to my demure self on any given day... Quit the giggling). 

I am blunt because I am preparing them for a life outside of their most difficult decisions dealing with nap times and should they get boones farm for the BYOB party. 

Truth is: you can dream til you are blue in the face, but if you don't hustle... There are hundreds more just like you that will. 

Take every opportunity that is thrown at you. From networking and internships to interviews to volunteering. These details are the difference between someone who is along for the ride and someone who wants it so bad that they will bust their butts to get ahead. 

I know, I know... My story isn't all that glamorous right now, but one day I will be  a leader in a top organization making decisions that matter and not because I dreamt it, but because I crave learning and pushing myself to the limit. I may not always win the short term battles, but the hustle to keep going after a failed attempt is what will push me beyond my wildest expectations. 

Here's to the hustle.

Xoxo,

Em

Where Have I Been?

I know it's been a month since I last blogged, so I thought I owed an explanation. While it's no excuse, the month of February was jam packed with work and travel. 

I promise to make more posts this week and would love to hear what you want to learn about. In the meantime, I wanted to share some of my favorite February fotos (see what I did there). Enjoy!

Valentine's Day Trip to California!

Work Trip to Daytona 500

Between all that traveling and day-to-day life, it's been crazy! I am planning more blog posts so stay tuned and let me know what topics I should cover! 

xoxo,

Em

Tuesday's Top 5: Concealers

Happy Tuesday!

There are few things in this world that I love more than life itself and concealer would definitely rank as a number one.  Lets just say, during the question of "what is the one thing you would bring if you were deserted on an island," I seriously contemplate saying concealer, but the judging would be on another level.

Some say to never leave the house without mascara, but with my darker features, my dark circles frighten small children (dramatic) -- so I load up on concealer.  

Anyways, I have searched high and low and kissed some frogs in order to find these top five picks. My main criteria is always that my concealer must be thick and opaque. 

Here are my favorites (the colors may not be accurate): 

Laura Mercier secret camouflage (here) is amazing! This is my number one concealer because of the coverage I get. I know, I know.. a little pricey, but a little goes a long way. I have had my compact for months and can't get enough.

Smashbox high definition concealer (here) was my first high brand concealer. I love the texture of it -- it is so smooth and creamy. The coverage is great for blemishes. There are a lot of colors too, so its simpler to find your perfect shade.

Maybelline Dream Lumi (here) is my favorite drug store concealer. The salmon color works wonders on dark spots and under eye circles. The texture and coverage is fantastic for a drugstore product. I have bought this more than five times. My only critique would be that it doesn't last. I'm not sure if its the clicking packaging that makes the product go by so quickly, but its usually on-sale, so stock up!

L'Oreal Paris True Match Crayon Concealer (here) is new to my collection. I love how easy this product is to apply to the under eye and I even us it to highlight my cupid's bow and my bridge of my nose. I bought a darker crayon and use it for contouring my cheek bones and jawline. Just remember to blend, blend, blend. I would recommend these products to someone who isn't sure about highlighting/contouring and is just starting out. It is a great first product!

I use L'Oreal Magic Lumi (here) in conjunction with the salmon Dream Lumi (above) to get a more highlighted look. This is a great option for covering blemishes and getting a lighter under eye.

There are the options I have been using for years. I am always looking for other concealers to try. What do you use? Comment below or follow my on twitter at @emilymekstan.

xoxo,

Emily

Monday Maroon

My love for the color red has grown as I have gotten older. Maybe it's the wisdom of my old age (sarcasm) that has sent me in this direction! :)

This Forever 21 button down is a great transitional piece. It's lightweight enough for summer and can be a great layering piece. 

To winterize it today, I paired it with  a leather pencil skirt from Ellen Tracy. Something about the thicker material makes this acceptable in the winter. 

Enjoy and let me know what you think :) 

Xoxo,

Emily

Weekend Wish List

Happy weekend! 

I live for the weekends. It is my opportunity to run errands, spend time with friends and family, and maybe.. get a little shopping in. However, Chicago keeps getting hit with massive snow so its cramping my weekend plans. One thing that is for sure is my fashion has been hindered by the practicality of not getting frost bite (dramatic? yes.. but accurate? totally). Needless to say I am over Chicago and cannot wait for Scott and I's Valentine's Day trip to California in 10 (ish) days!

Not only will we be in warmer weather, I can wear some of my favorite items that I bought recently at Forever 21 for spring!

Spring is on its way (or that's what I keep telling myself) and the fashion is on-point! I am loving what stores and designers are unveiling for spring -- preppy chic, bright colors and pastels, jumpsuits and more! Here are some of my favorites:

I love everything about this look (except the shoes). The skirt would be great with a white v-neck too (here)

I love midi skirts. I love the pink color -- very spring (here)

Such a cute iPhone case (here)

Steve Madden Espadrille (here)

Monochrome Jumpsuit (here)

PIM + LARKIN Ciao Sweater (here)

Feel Good Friday

As much as I love fashion, makeup, jewelry and more, it can all seem superficial at times. As I continue to flex my blogger muscles, I want to share quotes and inspiration that speak to me.

For my first "Feel Good Friday," I think this quote is perfect:

I have been fortunate in life to have people around me that let me be exactly who I am. But it wasn't always that way. I worked hard to weed through friends that were toxic. 

At 26, (with the help of my husband) I have the best group of girlfriends (even guy friends -- but we will leave that for a seperate post) and my family is second to none.

Surround yourself with people that lift you up and don't judge you for being crazy, silly or weird... Being true to who you are is what life is all about. 

xoxo,

Emily

Tuesday's Top Five: Discount Fashion Websites

Every Tuesday, I plan to write my "top" list on selected topics. 

As my first Tuesday, I can think of nothing I know more about than discounted fashion websites. 

My love for fashion is unconditional. There is something about a new outfit that can boost your confidence to another level. There are few things in this world that have that power. I say go ahead and express yourselves through fashion, but there is no need to buy designer duds at full price. While most sites you have to sign up for a "membership," it is 100 percent free to receive the email updates of sales.

If I haven't convinced you with the word "discount," how about avoiding a time suck, aka mall trip. As I get older, my hatred for the mall continues to grow. The waiting in line, dealing with angry customers and sometimes *eek* annoyed store employees doesn't always strike my fancy. I have to be prepared for a mall trip, but what if I just want to browse from the comfort of my couch? That is when I hit up the sites below.

If there is something you are longing for or a designer you have been eyeing, my advice would be to check the updates frequently since the sales are on a first come, first serve basis.

Here are my top five discount fashion websites.

• Gilt.com:   In addition to women's fashion, men's fashion and children's fashion, there is home decor, city deals and travel destinations for a discount. Your mind can certainly wander on this site about how fabulous your wardrobe could be, but some of the deals are still pricey. 
• MyHabit.com: I love this site for multiple reasons. Amazon.com's website so you can use your gift cards to purchase some fantastic items. Recently, I purchased Charles Philip Shanghai flats and a Zac Posen handbag (check out my instagram for a pic of my beauty). I would have never been able to afford a Zac Posen bag any other way. Fabulous!!!
• Ideeli.com: If you haven't used these sites before, this would be the site to start with. Designers like Nine West, bcbg, Halston Heritage and more can be found on this site. I have bought a number of items from this site and they always come in great condition. 
• theoutnet.com: Watch out, fashionistas! You may want to warn your bank accounts. This site is filled with talented designers like Marni, Alexander Wang, Diane Von Furstenberg and more! If you have an upcoming occasion, this site would be my first choice. Beautiful dresses, heels, clutches, and jewelry all ready for your choosing.
• CUSP.com: This is also a retail store that is the Neiman Marcus discounted store. Shopping online or in-person is less stressful than stepping foot in a massive Neiman Marcus. I would recommend this site for shoe, handbags and jewelry since I feel that the clothing is still a little pricey.

These sites are all about the "waiting for the right deal" and aren't ideal for the impulse shopping because you may go overboard. I suggest budgeting and saving for luxury goods. We still need to make our mortage/rent payments, ladies!

Happy shopping.

xoxo,
Emily

Work Appropriate Jewelry

I am a huge fan of necklaces. A stellar necklace can take your look from day-to-night or even make a neutral palette outfit more visually interesting. 

Jewelry is a great way to inject some life into your already built wardrobe without breaking the bank. 

But just because it's on-trend, doesn't mean it's appropriate for certain work environments (Leave your knuckle ring clutches and skulls at home during the 9-5 grind). 

Since I work at an (all the time) business casual office, I tend to express myself through my jewelry while still maintaining a sense of professionalism. Here are some recent examples that I have shared on Instagram with links to where they can be purchased. 

BaubleBar acrylic block monogram necklace in tortoise shell (here), j crew polka dot button down (old) (similar)

Windsor stone drop statement necklace (here), Forever 21 mint sweater (old) (similar)

I will be sharing more of my jewelry collection in the future. Thanks for reading!

Xoxo, 

Emily

My Skin Care Routine

  


 

It is important to be in tune with your skin to make sure that you give it what it needs. Changing up the daily skin care routine during “that” time of the month is just as important as altering it when the seasons change.

During the winter months, I double up on the moisturizer since the Chicago winds are no joke.

Each morning and evening I use Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleaner and moisturize with Neutrogena Healthy Skin Rapid Tone Repair Moisturizer SPF 30.

Once a week, I use Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Facial Scrub to make sure that I get rid of the extra makeup and dead skin that builds up throughout the week. It is important not to overuse a facial scrub because it can dry out your skin.

If I am having a breakout, I change up my skin care routine. I wash my face with SheaMoisture African Black Soap and moisturize with Simple Protecting Light Moisturizer SPF 15.

xoxo, 
Emily

Wedding Dream

Hello blogworld, the name is Emily. 

I am a happy Chicagoan that grew up in the Northwest suburbs where my husband and I currently live. We got married in July 2013 and are loving it. 

I thought for a long time about what my first post would be and I can think of nothing better than show you some of my favorite wedding photos.

The Best Day of My Life

That's me and my husband, Scott
Flowers by Town & Country Gardens

Watters Alexandria bridal dress & bought it here | Tuxedo by Jos A. Bank

Our reception venue, Belvedere Banquets | Our colors were coral, navy and grey with elements of chevron

Scott is a huge Chicago Blackhawks fan, so I surprised him with Tommy Hawk

It was everything I had hoped for and more. From the beautiful weather to our friends and family surrounding us, it was more than we hoped for. The best part was.. not even the delicious red velvet cake, but marrying my best friend who has been there for me through everything. Our wedding was spectacular, but our marriage will be something for the record books.

Thanks for reading. Stay tuned for makeup, fashion, interior design, and all things girly about my life to be shared on this blog. We all need an outlet to express ourselves and I am excited to explore that through this site.

xoxo,

Emily