BEST SKIN CARE PRODUCTS – MY ROUTINE

by with No Comment beautyget the lookhealthmakeupskin care

Okay so disclaimer; this isn’t for the faint of heart or the ‘all-in-one-step’ kind of regimen, because even for me this feels daunting! But we’re doing it! Lets be real though- I’m middle aged folks! Ewww who even says that out loud?! Haha I do and this is what 35 looks like. Don’t think I’ve ever even said that out loud here but honestly I’m just confirming everyone’s math with my ’16 and pregnant’ story and then calculating my daughter’s age, she’s 18 yowza. But I don’t even care because I feel better now, in my own skin than I ever did at 25! Crazy right?! So I want to share my secrets, tried and trusted methods with you- from my skincare, to stuff we already know but maybe don’t yet do.

Although a big part of the way we age is attributed to genetics, it’s also about skin care, lifestyle, and acceptance (lol that last bit is for myself!). We’re all going to age, it’s a part of life, and wrinkles and fine lines around our eyes show that we’ve lived happily and laughed often, BUUUUT I’ll be damned if I don’t go out without a fight aka preventative measures! So I’ve been doing the following steps since I was 19 and my mom became a Mary Kay consultant… and then so did I! I’ve included price points from drug store products I like to high end brands.

 

CLEANSE

Even in my laziest, drunkest, most sleepiest of moments, I’ll ALWAYS take off my makeup. Always always always. If I can tell you ONE thing, it’s never to sleep in your makeup. I like to keep makeup remover wipes by my bed so that no matter what, I can just reach over, snag a wipe, and robotically wipe the day away without even having to get out of bed. Snaps for sleeps and no pants. Makeup remover wipes, Neutrogena wash, Fresh Soy Cleanser 


TONE
Applying a toner to my skin after I’ve cleansed it is a step that I don’t think I started doing until a few years ago because it was under rated. However, toners remove residual make up, dirt, and oil from your face that cleanser left behind. Put some on a cotton round and see the grime that comes off that you didn’t even think was possible. Witch hazel, Kate Somerville, Simple & soothing, Skin Laundry 

SERUMSThink of serums as the red rope between your products and the deeper layers of your skin. They also contain a higher concentration of active ingredients so it’s like a helpful bouncer that also helps your products be more effective! It’s especially helpful to use a serum if you have fine lines, scarring, or acne. Hyaluronic Acid Serum (my all time holy grail of serums), Magic stripes, Vitamin C

HYDRATE
After you’ve applied your serum you’ll want to hydrate with a light yet effective moisturizer. I have extremely dry skin so this step is definitely needed for me, but if you have oily or acne prone skin I don’t necessarily think this step is a must for you. Just remember the more you strip your skin of moisture (try not to use alcohol based products), the more it will over produce oil hence causing more breakouts and more oillll. Embryolisse, Olay, Mario Badescu, Acure

 

PROTECT

The NUMBER ONE contributing factor to premature aging of your skin is the sun. Second is the way you sleep … yaaas I know! More on that later. Remember that UVA protects you from AGING rays and UVB protects you from BURNING rays. So I love using a full spectrum SPF and these are some of my faves: COOLA (mineral based woot!), Clarins, Shiseido, Neutrogena

 

EYE CREAM EYE CREAM EYE CREAM!!!
Can you tell I’m really all about eye cream?! The eyes have it baby, no matter what, your eyes and your hands will reveal all the things. The skin around our eyes is the thinnest of all our face, hence we age their the quickest, and why we get pesky fine lines and wrinkles there first because, thin skin. The tricky part of using eye cream is to find one that you can use around your entire eye not just underneath it. Most eye creams are designed to thicken the skin which you don’t want to have on your upper eye lid, so either apply it only beneath your lower lashes or use a cream designed for your entire eye like Algenist 360. Remember to use your ring finger (it’s the weakest and has the most padding … go ahead give it a feel) and to pat pat pat, in and up towards your nose. Never drag your skin out and down. Think “defy gravity baby cells”! I know I sound insano but I promise, this is the way. THE ONLY WAY *said in evil voice, but with a smile: Algenist 360, Shiseido, Mario Badescu, Garnier

EXFOLIATE Ok last one I promise! For now at least 😀 I like to exfoliate my skin 3 times a week. Sounds like a lot but I started off with once a week and then worked my way up to 3. You definitely don’t want to over exfoliate your face but exfoliation is imperative for skin renewal and cell turnover. As we age we lose collagen in our skin (and we produce less of it like why?!), those are the proteins that give us firmness and shape, ya know- taking our raisin like cells and plumping them up into big ol’ grapes! Clinique, Kate Somerville, Clarasonic, Tatcha

 

Alrighty, that’s it!!! Those are the steps I take daily. Daily y’all! There are other things I do too, like night treatments, skin masks, facials, hydration, lifestyle blah blah blahs but I’ll stop there for now because honestly it doesn’t matter what you do so long as you take up a simple skincare regimen and play it on repeat. 

I have to say this for myself, but for you too if ever it feels like you’re feelin like your skin has lost it’s luster. We CAN age gracefully! BUT we shouldn’t put so much emphasis on how young we look or how youthful our skin is. C’est la vie baby. But hey, this is also coming from the girl who just wrote a book on skincare for you here lol

Is there anything here you weren’t using before that you saw here and will start implementing? What is your favorite skin care product?!

 

LABOR DAY SALE – MAXIMIZE YOUR BASICS!

by with No Comment fall fashionfashionget the lookholidaysstyle

I hope everyone’s been enjoying the long weekend and Labor day festivities! I’m falling in line here with all the “sale posts” because who doesn’t love a good sale from one of your top brands and usual suspects!

So today is all about the Labor Day sales happening and how to capitalize on them so that your top 3 fashion essentials carry over to every piece in your wardrobe. Maximize your basics for that pazazzzz baby!

1) High waisted jeans! You’ve seen this trend before, I mean did it ever even leave? Trust, high waisted jeans are a staple for all the seasons. They’re simple, they’re casual JUST enough, and they can be accessorized in a way that takes a even the shyest of denim and gives it that “I’m casual, modern, and fashion forward ” kind of feel. SALE NOW AT: EXPRESS and NASTYGAL!
Free People booties, Urban Outfitters high waisted black jeans, UO flannel, grey fringed satchel, gold bangles, black and gold choker, Free People bralette

2) Accessorize! Until the wheels fall off, whatever that means! I’m telling you, take even an old band tee, some distressed jeans, slip on kicks, and kick it up a notch just by adding some baddy accessories! It’ll give even the most disheveled outfit that “I’m trendy and cute without even trying (but you’re totally trying!)” look! SALE NOW AT: URBAN OUTFITTERS, EXPRESS,

 Accessorizing the pumps (what does that even mean Jess) off of my Nasty Gal robe romper with these Steve Madden white lace up heels, chain link clutch, and long slinky necklace

3) Boots! And booties! Fall is approaching and we all know this because candy corn, costumes, and booties are being placed on shelves … ALREADY! But booties are you new bestie this coming season because you can dress them up, dress them down, and it’ll give even the most casual ensemble, that ‘pulled together and collected’ vibe! SALE NOW AT DSW!

Express denim romper, Jeffrey Campbell booties, fringe crossbody, choker, stud earrings, white lace bralette

And there you have it! Maximize those sales and implement key staple pieces into your wardrobe that’ll make each outfit timeless and trendy!

What are your top 3 go-to capsule pieces in YOUR closet? 

 

STYLE GUIDE: TRENDS I’M LOVING

by with No Comment fashionget the lookinspirationlifestylelook bookstyle

It really is true that every trend eventually makes it’s way back around again to be a relevant ‘thing’ that we all do . . . even the MC Hammer parachute pants, oh yes!

I’ve seen a lot of trends peek their way behind the 90’s curtain and into this summer’s fashion and I can’t say that I don’t love it. Actually, I’m really happy that comfort IS a trend!


Off the shoulder, denim, rompers, jumpers, overalls . . . over all, these trends make me so happy because it’s a one piece outfit, and BOOM, you look so PULLED TOGETHER!

Overalls– in the early 90’s overalls were my jam and they’re baaaack! And in a big way! Paired with a tank or tee, just slip on some bright closed toe pumps and you’re the new Summer 2016.

Rompers– I mean, I’ve been living in these this summer. They’re comfortable, stylish, sexy, and I don’t have to think about it which is the BEST part! This summer has been all about blush tones, bold prints, and off the shoulder. Shoulder cut outs are big this summer (as seen above) much the same way that shoulder pads were a thing of the 80’s. *please say that shoulder pads will never make a comeback*

Jumpsuits– Also another favorite of mine that has been on repeat this whole summer. We’ve seen a lot of off the shoulder, shoulder cut out, and key hole details with these classy and comfortable pieces. You’ll notice the same color scheme with the bold colors, bold prints, and denim. Bring on the denim!

All of these styles can be accessorized to be casual or dressed up in a way that make them stand out pieces!

What’s been your favorite trend to come out this summer?!

 

 

BRIDE GUIDE: TOP 5 WEDDING PLAN TIPS!

by with 7 Comments bachelorette partybridalDIYget the lookgift ideasinspirationlifestyleparty planningpersonalspecial occassionstips and trickswedding planning

I’m so excited to share this series with you and I’m also creating videos for it on my YouTube channel! Welcome to the Bride Guide, from yours truly! Because, those that can’t do, teach and I’ll be the first to admit that I suck at planning! Like really I’d rather have someone else just tell me where to be and when ha! Realistically though I’m a control FREAK so I’m giving you my tips and tricks to staying bright and breathing and never turning into the huffing puffing bridezilla, from the control freak in me to the control freak in you!

So the part of wedding planning that I found to be the most stress inducing (ahem the entire ‘planning’ part of it duh) has become the most fun to do … once I relied on other sources to do it for me of course! Today I’m sharing with you my bride guide to planning your big day with ease, featuring some of the sites I’m currently using to prep, plan, style, and SAVE with my top 5 wedding planning tips!


1. Create a site– a landing page for guests and a place to get information surrounding your wedding. If I have a ton of questions I can’t imagine the questions my guests would have and creating a site for this puts it onto one place- the who, the where, the what, the when, the hows! You’ve probably heard of Martha Stewart weddings and The Knot, and I love checking in on those sites to see if I’m on track with the planning ‘time line’ (oh yeah, there’s a freaking time line to follow! No pressure!), but I’m using RileyGrey.com for my actual wedding site and reception hub. It feels daunting but it’s super user friendly and if I can navigate it, your tortoise probably can too! You design the page, you fill in the information, create your own personalized link, and boom, you’re like a pro baby!

2. Set a date and pick a location– I feel like these two go hand in hand because if you plan on a destination wedding *raises hands and feet* than timing becomes crucial depending on time of year, weather conditions, and travel. Also, when you set a date the next natural thing to do is pick your location which takes away 99.9% of stress, at least for me it did. I’m living and breathing by THIS blog by JetFete which caters to destination wedding planning, and helps you narrow down your options, sift through all the possibilities, and goes through every question you may have lingering when it comes to planning a wedding away from home.

3. Food, flowers, and such– choosing a vendor that offers prime location, handles decorating for you, and provides food AND beverage service is like a dream come true! But lets face it, most vendors aren’t all inclusive, thus you’re left to fend for yourself. I got your back though, CaratsAndCake is a site that allows you to shop your vendors ACCORDING TO LOCATION (whoa! and hence pick your location first) with the help of other brides who’ve already had their weddings and link you out to each of the services they used. Genius right?!?!?! So you go through the albums, it features photos from their wedding and the links to their vendors from food, to their dress, to decorations and flowers! These links are located at the bottom of the post which takes you to a page with other work the company has done, and from there you can contact the vendor directly.
G E N I U S

4. Take photos and send Save The Dates!– taking lovey dovey pictures are the fun part! You get to look all kissy and fishy faced with the love of your life … in front of strangers, and hold poses that seem awkward but look sexy! Then you send those to your family and friends as Save The Dates and RSVP cards 😀 Postable is like oxygen to me right now because it gathers the mailing address and contact information from all of your guests and puts them into one place for you. So when you’re ready to mail out your invitations simply upload or export that information to your stationary person or print them off yourself and you’re set! It’s a free service and you create a personalized link which you then email your guests with. It takes them to the landing page where they fill out their information and it goes directly to you, never shared (that was a big deal for me). You could use this for holidays, special occasions, and birthdays since you update the list yourself throughout the year.

5. Register and receive– gifts! The super duper fun funners part! Well it’s all fun but I mean c’mon, wahooo gifts!!! Sites like The Knot, Honey Fund, and others also allow your nearest and dearest to either purchase a gift from your registry or contribute to your honeymoon. Since I will both register for gifts AND ask for honeymoon perks, I’m using NewlyWish. With group gifting options and a low cash fund fee, it was just the way to go for us. I also never know what I need or want- I want it all, but this site helps you skim through products and add them to your list with a click of a button . . . ummm yes please!

So I realllllly hope this post helped you if you’re planning a wedding, helping someone else plan theirs, or will be planning in the future! There are so many resources out there like Etsy and Pinterest that give you a plethora of options when it comes to story boards and sharing ideas, and gift giving! However these are the sites I’m currently using to organize my thoughts and plans for my own wedding and I wanted to share them with you before things start to get cray lol.

There are some key things left out of this article like dress shopping and timelines, which will be woven in between all of this, but these were the items that I needed to check off my list in order to settle the nerves and be able to function and get shit done in my life so there ya go! And cheers to you <333

Are there any sites or companies you use for planning a wedding or special occasion? 

 

 

TRAVEL GUIDE: PACK VERSATILITY INTO YOUR WARDROBE!

by with No Comment adventureget the lookinspirationlook bookstyletravelvegas

I recently shared some fun facts about me, so adding to that … unknown truth, I NEVER check a bag! Like ever. No matter if we’re going on a 3 day trip or a 3 week trip, it’s all carry on for me! Can we say control freak!? So when we went to Las Vegas this past weekend for our 6 year anniversary I packed some versatile outfits and I want to share with you some of my versatility ideas for your vacation wardrobe.

I really wanted to bring along some dresses and cover ups that would double as swim suit cover ups while I was at the pool, and that could then be styled as dinner/ going out ensembles for after the day’s events! These scream sultry, versatile, and vacation!







Nasty Gal black romper with a mustard bralette, LF black and white chevron romper, LF fringed blouse and high waisted shredded shorts, White crochet monokini with a LF black scalloped sheer cover up, LF black lace skater dress, and this floor length floral wrap around gown.

Can you tell that I really own clothes in white and black? I’m drawn to them in everything! These outfits made me feel sexy and stylish! They were flowy, feminine, and perfect for that ‘pool to night out’ transition. Especially on vacation, you never know when you’re going to want to hop out of the pool and hit the town and these were my favorite choices! Next I’ll share with you how I packed 8 outfits, 3 bathing suits, 3 pairs of shoes, makeup and more all into ONE carry on luggage!

What is your go-to choice for packing some versatility into your wardrobe?

 

 

 

ACCESSORIZE WITH STYLE- THE BEAUTY CORNER WITH DW

by with No Comment fashionget the lookinspirationlook book

Mother’s Day is this weekend and I thought what better time to empower all my fellow moms out there than now, I mean we create life … you’re goddess status! Every woman deserves to feel sexy and be told she’s a goddess. Today I’ll share with you the TOP 3 ways to accessorize your sexy self from the inside out!


#1 CONFIDENCE AND A SMILE!


Your number one accessory is your confidence! It’s something that CAN be seen and is your best invisible accessory because it’s something that comes from within. That may sound super cliche but it’s sincerely the best thing you can give yourself. It’s a genuine feeling that you can easily follow up with a HUGE ear to ear smile! Which by the way, is the most beautiful part of being a human … our ability to SMILE!

Confidence is something you can’t teach someone and if you’d told 14 year old me to build more confidence, I would have had no idea what you were talking about. You can feel good about the skin you’re in today … flaunt what your momma gave ya! *another reference to mom’s day*

#2 STYLES YOU FEEL SEXY IN


Sexiness is also something that’s hard to explain to people because so many people hear the word ‘sexy’ and associate it with something bad, but being sexy is empowering! You’ll find yourself feeling fierce and you’ll settle into that confident feeling … remember, you’re a force!

If you feel fierce in sweat pants and a tank, rock it! If you feel fierce in pencil skirts and pumps, rock it! I feel FIERCE in rompers and jumpsuits! Something about finally loving the skin I’m in and being able to show a little bit of it without being self conscious about my body, is so empowering. Confidence is also a timing thing. For me, the past couple of years I’ve really grown to love myself and love my body, and that’s complete growth from the person I was, even just 5 years ago.

#3 CHIC AND CLASSY OUTERWEAR- ACCESSORIZE WITH STYLE!

Any accessory that can make it on its own as a statement piece and not just an accessory item, is number one on my list. I chose to highlight and feature this Daniel Wellington Sheffield watch for a few reasons. One- it’s one of the most elegant and sophisticated accessory items I own; that elevates any look with its simplicity, and two- pardon the pun, it’s a timeless piece that pulls any ensemble together with ease. I paired it with my Gwyneth jumpsuit, some open toe heels, and I was ready for my Mother’s Day weekend!

This super classy Sheffield rose gold watch (I’m ruled by all things rose gold) is uber feminine, and minimalistic with its sleek, slender leather strap. The sexiness of this watch includes the Swarovski crystals that span the circumference of the face and the interchangeable straps!


Huge thank you to Daniel Wellington for sending over this must-have accessory that prompted this entire post about timing (pun intended), confidence, and empowerment. I love what their company stands for and if you wanna snag your own swag (that should be a hashtag), they were kind enough to also give my audience 15% off all their products. Just click HERE and enter in “JESSLIZAMA” for the discount. I do not make a percentage off of any of the sales, I truly just wanted to share this beauty with you all. I hope this inspires you to start feelin’ yourself!

Happy Mother’s Day to all you mommas and I hope you feel loved and appreciated this weekend <3

What are your special plans for this weekend and what is the number ONE accessory that makes you feel like a million bucks?!

 

 

3 EASY FIXES TO MOVE ON FROM THE ‘MOM’ LOOK

by with No Comment fashionget the looklook bookmommy diariesvideo

I’m a mom. I live for convenience and I’ll choose comfort over cute any day because, time saver. I love my yoga pants, I love my flip-flops, and I love big over sized sweaters that make me feel cozy. Corrine however will tell you that I’ve got to RETIRE the uggs and step away from the flip-flops!

So today I’m sharing with you Corrine’s top 3 easy fixes to move on from the ‘mom’ look … and move into sassy, trendy, and fashionable! When I say ‘mom look’, I’m referring to the ‘I ran out of the door fuss free I have errands to run and no time for vanity’ look. You know, the moments when you go to the gym (or dress like you’ll be going to the gym but never really actually make it there) in your athletic gear and tennis shoes and then you live the rest of your day in the same types of clothes. Comfort and convenience!


Well here are the simple, affordable, and practical ways in which you can elevate your look and still feel like you’re ready to walk the grocery aisle and not the runway aisle.

1. Accessorize- even the smallest addition to your outfit will dress up even the most casual of ensembles. Here I have this beautiful long necklace that my good friend Stephanie gave me for my birthday and the color is a beautifully muted light purple hue. Simple and elegant.

2. Swap your flip-flops for chic slip ons -this may seem like a no brainer but for the longest time I couldn’t let go of them! Wedges or slip ons are the perfect alternative!

3. Invest in outerwear- I’m the first person to grab an oversized faded sweater, holey or not, and make a dodge for the door. But if you top your outfit with a cute cardigan, pullover, button up, or jacket, you’ll look more put together and less like you just rolled out of bed. You can still enjoy those comfortable outfits, just take them to the next level!

Try implementing these easy changes into your every day casual wardrobe options and see if they don’t make you feel any better about your basics! I promise it will!

What’s the one staple item in your closet that you just refuse to abandon? I’ll raise my glass to yoga pants. I just can’t seem to get through a week without them!

What’s In My Bag? With Corrine

by with No Comment beautyget the looklifestylereviews

Hello all, Corrine here with a little update with what’s in my bag! I haven’t posted anything in awhile, but it is safe to say I am making  a comeback to the Jess Lizama blog.

With that said, I’d like to start off by giving you the latest peek of what I’m carrying around in my bag these days. With so much adventuring to do, I like to keep my bag simple and light.

Recently, rings and kitschy pins have found their way into my list of obsessions. I like to carry around this little white enamel compact because it’s perfect for corralling bits and bobs. It also comes in handy for storing loose change, Advil, and whatever else you want for safekeeping. I purchased it for $3 at a thrift store, along with the fun heart “Jesus” pin for just $1.

Processed with VSCOcam with s2 preset

No matter how cool I try to look without sunnies, I know I just cannot look as cool compared to when I do wear them. If you’re like me and have a solid collection of sunnies to choose from on the daily, then you probably have a few vintage pairs lying around too! They’re a must have.


I don’t know about you, but I cannot leave the house without a pocket journal. There are too many brilliant thoughts, random ideas, and little notes that pass me by everyday. Plus, journals were pretty much invented for flower pressing, and I personally think everyone should press flowers between any set of pages they can get their hands on. I also gather inspiration by talking to my friends and family, and sometimes someone will say something so perfect or inspiring that I just have to write it down and keep it forever. I would recommend everyone keep a journal, even if its as tiny as this one (that I stole from my mom.) It is a way of documenting your magic!

Not photographed here is my tiny travel-sized bottle of Chloe, which has been my favorite scent for years. Something I always carry around besides lipstick is a perfume rollerball or travel-sized one like the tiny Chloe, because smelling great is a priority.

Lastly, I just recently picked up this fabulous baby blue fringed bag by Rebecca Minkoff and would just like to take the opportunity to swoon. The leather fringes add just the right amount of edge to a simple outfit, while the small frame and baby blue color give off a perfectly tailored and effortless vibe.

Processed with VSCOcam with s2 preset

That’s all for today, and I hope you liked it! What helps you keep a documentation of inspiration? And what are your top five items that live in your bag?

xx, Corrine

THE PERFECT SMOKEY EYE WITH CIATE’S OLIVIA PALERMO PALETTE!

by with 2 Comments beautyget the looklifestylereviewsvideo

This is the easiest and most beautiful ‘smokey eye’ look that can be transformed from day wear to date night! Using the Ciate London’s Olivia Palermo palette – which by the way has the most beautiful textured packaging – and a few of my favorite products you can get this look in just a few minutes!

The eye shadows in this palette are rich and highly pigmented so you can really play with the intensity of whatever look you’re going for.


Since I’m using multiple shadows I want to prime my lids so that the colors don’t crease or fade. I use my fingertips to rub that in from my lash line to my brow bone, and remember that a little goes a long way!


Using a crease brush and #1 in the palette, pack the color on from your lash line up into your crease, creating a wash of color and a nice base with this matted light purple.


Adding dimension now, load up a short dense brush with this darker burgundy/purple #2 color. Start from the middle of your lid and apply the shadow right over that base color, only working the color into the outer half of your lid- from your lash line into your crease.


Using the same brush and the #3 color, a shimmery hunter green, create a cat eye effect drawing the shadow up and out, from your outer lash line up toward your temple. Don’t drag it out to your temple, but use this as a reference of direction, drawing it up like a wing.


Continue to blend that color into your crease, stopping at the halfway point on your lid. I like to focus my darker colors in this outer half of my eye so that you really get that intense ‘cat eye’ effect without going full smokey-eye over your entire lid.



Use your concealer brush to wipe away any fall out and to emphasize that line of color we drew for a clean look.


I like to use a fluffy brush to kind of marry all of the colors together and blend away any harsh lines.

Using an angled brush I dipped it into the #5 shimmery taupe color and applied that below my brows onto my brow bone for a nice highlight.


Then using a pencil brush or liner brush alternate between #3 and #4, the hunter green and burgundy color to line your lower lashes. I used the burgundy along the lower lashes of my inner eye stopping midway, and the hunter green for the other half getting as close to my lower lash line as possible.


With one of my favorite felt liners I lined my upper lash line winging the line out at the end, kind of flicking the line out along that cat eye we drew earlier with the green.


Apply your mascara as you would and then complete your foundation routine per the usual 😀

Tada! That’s the finished look and now you’re ready for date night or girls night! This could easily be turned into a day time look also! To see this tutorial in action here’s my video below, subscribe to my channel for more how-to’s and what-to-do’s like this! <3

Besides the sleek and elegant packaging that this palette offers, the colors can be easily stacked upon one another for more dramatic wear, or used with a lighter hand for a classy day time look.

I layered two lipsticks from this collection, Truffle and Praline, for a rich yet natural looking lip. Truffle is a rich pinky/nude color and Praline compliments it so well with its deep burgundy tones.


Try this look out and TAG me when you do! Have you tried this palette out yet or any other collection from Ciate London? What does your go-to smokey eye look like?

I love that this beauty look lasted all day and all night and the colors stayed vibrant and true throughout!