Sweet Talker

i swear, i'm really starting to get better at procrastinating my next outfit. sometimes you shouldn't let your mind overthink things, especially when you have a psychotic mind like mine that sometimes can't tell what's best for ya. 

even though it is summer, i couldn't help but take advantage of the strange weather and ended pulling together this ensemble.

all the pieces that i have used today, have been seen before on the blog. the black crop top is my all time favorite top. the material accentuates each curve that i have, and the small details such as the cold shoulder gives it a little extra touch.

since i am wearing a crop top, i have to keep in mind the skin to skin ratio. i decided to even it out with a pair of high waisted shorts. now keep in mind, that i do do this to help make my body seem longer and leaner. so there's a nice little secret for ya ;) 

even though i did just even out the skin to skin ratio, i felt the need to cover up a bit more since it was chilly outside, therefore i took out the big guns. my knee high boots usually look great alone but i decided to add the socks as well to compliment the black top. 

last but not least, i added a gold chain to help make my face pop a bit more. since i do have dark hair, i don't want it to blend in, instead i needed a piece to seperate the two.

gold Neklace: guess?

black cold shoulder crop top: GUESS?

high-waisted denim shorts: London jeans

knee-high socks: betsey johnson

knee-high boots: lucky brand

Bang Bang

"See anybody could be good to you, you need a bad girl to blow your mind" and cue Ariana Grande's high pitch note....

Anyways now that you know my inspiration let us go on to the outfit details...

No, I did not "Wake Up Like This" but how amazing would've that been? Hair like that takes sometime ya know. This tee has to be one of my best buys. I know by now it's become a cliche, but I can't help channel my inner Beyonce when slipping it on. And of course, how can I not love everyone reading it to me as I walk by as if I didn't know what was on my shirt...

I paired the top with what seems to be now one of my favorite high-waisted shorts. I cropped the top in order to help form my body a bit better. If I had tuck in the shirt instead, it would have made my torso appear smaller than what it really is. Therefore cropping it allowed it to elongate my body. Of course, I had to tie a flannel around my waist because I'm not #TeamCheeky.

Last but not least, I had to throw in the floral platforms! I could've worn sneakers but it wouldn't have elongated my legs as much as having a sandal. The added platform was just a plus. ;)



Sunnies: Forever 21
"I Woke Up Like This" Tee: JcPenney
High- Waisted Denim Shorts: London Jeans
Flannel: Victoria's Secret
Floral Platform Sandals: SODA

Denim Diva

Denim. Can't live with them... can't live without them. Who doesn't own a pair of good jeans? Or a go- to denim jacket? There are always so many ways to style denim, and really, that's the beauty of it. I was channeling my inner Denim Diva and this is what I pulled together...

You may see a familiar face... my high-waisted shorts that is! They have been used before in my "Spring Blues" look and this time around I switched a couple of things up. I had a tank of the exact same color palette and decided to pair it off with them. I did feel a bit naked and decided to do the unthinkable...denim on denim! I've had this denim shirt for a couple of years now, but I never really used it like I have here.

Last but not least, are these super fun floral platform sandals! Remember my wedged sneaker deal? Buy one get one half off? These were the babies that were half off! I've had so much fun styling these sandals and they finally get to be featured on the blog. The advantage of this kind of shoe is that it does all the work for you! Because they demand for attention, you are immediately seen as a fashionista. Like I have stated in a previous post; the chunky white platform is very in right now! It has been added to anything from a sandal to a bootie. It gives it the extra "oomph" that it needs.

Denim Shirt: Charlotte Russe
Blue and White Tank: The Limited
High-Waisted Dyed Shorts: GUESS?
Floral Platform Shoes: SODA

Beach Bum

I love going to the beach even though I hate what everyone loves about it. The wind moving through my hair and running your toes through the sand. I can't stand it. But that's just me.
So what do I enjoy about the beach? I love watching the waves crash and watching people make complete fools of themselves. Now that is good stuff!

I did not plan to go to the beach but realized that my outfit was something decent for the pier. I still did the usual walk along the beach while allowing my feet to get wet.

Hats have always been something that I have been afraid to try. "It looks weird" or "I don't think that goes well with my face shape" was always my excuse. However, I did realize that my mom had a hat just hanging around her closet and decided "eh why not". I actually ended up being obsessed! I loved the way it completely changed my outfit and it didn't hurt to get compliments along the way.

One of my favorite colors, beside black, has got to be military green. I really love how it goes well with anything. I've had this vest for a couple of years now and sometimes I forget that I have it, but this has actually been one of my favorite "make it or break it" pieces.

You can't really admire the cotton tank I have under, but I'll be sure to incorporate it in more of my looks. I personally love the peek-a-boo cutout in the back which makes my lower back look amazing.

When I think casual, I think denim. Therefore I finished off the look with my favorite GUESS? jeans.

 

Hat: LA Fair Hat Stands

Green Military Vest: JcPenney

Cotton Tank: Macy's

Denim: GUESS?

Lace Be Honest

This had to be the one of the greatest days of my lives. Now, I know that I should probably stay faithful to my wonderful DC family... but The Avengers: Age of Ultron was just beyond incredible. Marvel did such an amazing job with carrying out this storyline. Although it wasn't strictly based on the comics, I feel like they created an amazing twist without taking out its originality.

On to the outfit now...

As always, California loves to mess with my emotions, making it ever so difficult for me to plan out my outfit for the next day. I originally was wearing something completely different because it felt like Dr. Victor Frieze was on a crazy rampage again. However as soon as the afternoon started, it felt as if Firestorm was in the house.

As always, I had to resort to black. I mean can ya really blame me? Besides lace always looks better in black! The top I'm wearing has been in my closet for as long as I can remember. I haven't let her go simply because I've always been able to style a great outfit with her around. The denim shorts, have also been in my closet for quite a while now. I don't usually wear them because I'm not a fan of the "cheeky" shorts. I don't usually feel the need to flaunt that around to the world. However, I did have this awesome cover- up that I had gotten around the holidays and usually have only worn it with a dress. Because it was so hot, I did not want to be walking around in pants but also did not want to leave very little to the imagination.

Although the cover up is also made out of lace, you might be thinking "well that doesn't really cover much up now does it?" The point of a cover up isn't to completely cover up like its title says. They are made to be used in the spring/ summer time. With the crazy raging heat, you don't want something to make you sweat in places you never thought of, but instead conceal a bit of your body. You also may have seen them strutting their stuff around the beach. Again, you don't want to cover up that cute bikini that you have been dying to show off since last summer, instead just use the cover up to your advantage while also protecting your skin from the crazy sun rays. They are usually made of lightweight materials so there is no need to fear.

That being said, it was the perfect piece I needed to complete my outfit as well as keep me a bit cool without burning my skin. I finished off the look with my favorite booties to give it a bit more of an edge rather than a boho feel. Last but not least, my accessory of choice was my Victoria Secret wing necklace.

Round Sunnies: Forever 21
Cover- Up: Express
Lace Top: Thrift Shop
Denim Shorts: London Jeans
Finlay Boots: GUESS?
Angel Wings Necklace: Victoria's Secret

Last Resort

The weather has been very up and down lately, and to be honest the struggle is very real to find out what to wear. Besides, it's also finals week and I'm not fully dedicated to glamming it up. However, that doesn't mean that I should run around looking like the crazy person that I am. 

Lately I have been leaning towards the casual side and this is one of the looks that I was able to pull together.

Although this may be one of the simplest looks I have done, each article of clothing has something really unique to them!

The gray top seems like just any ordinary cotton sweatshirt, but it most definitely isn't. The sleeves are made out of sheer material and add an extra "oomph" to the simple top. I've never actually worn it when I go workout because the sheer wouldn't do so well with sweat. 

For some strange reason, I don't usually wear these Material Girl leggings. I'm not a fan of leggings period, but the leather on the sides gives them that little extra edge that I usually need in my life. I'm not the kind to flaunt the camel- toe therefore I either wear a long top, or in this case, wrap my denim shirt around the waist. 

Now to the part that I am most excited about.... THE SHOES! 

I've never been a fan of the wedged sneaker BUT this pair isn't like the rest.

Most wedged sneakers are only about 3-4 inches high which isn't high enough for my taste and instead of making you appear taller, they make you seem smaller. Now how is this possible if there is added height to the shoe, you may ask. Have you guys ever noticed when you wear booties, they cut off right around the ankle? As weird as it may sound, any shoe that cuts off around or above the ankle actually takes off a bit of height, even if it's only less than an inch. The legs are very important in defining height, not anything else. As long as you are lady long legs, you will always appear taller than what you really are. 

Now that we have put the fact out there...

The usual wedged sneaker cuts off right at the ankle which makes your legs appear stumpy. 

These SODA wedged sneakers (which I just bought over the weekend from a BOGO sale) have everything that the other ones have been missing! The heel is 4 inches with an added inch platform, and BELIEVE ME they are beyond comfortable! I immediately fell in love with the bulky white platform. It gives the shoe a really cool grunge-y feel and is definitely one of the coolest trends going around in footwear right now.

 

Hair and makeup was kept simple. 

Hair straight because "ain't nobody got time for that" and my usual makeup routine because "I don't want to scare people away".

Now who said casual can't be chic?

Grey Sheer Cotton Top: not sure...

Leggings: Material Girl

Denim Shirt: Charlotte Russe

Shoes: SODA

Clownin' Around

We all know, I was born into the comic universe, therefore this only came natural to me. 

Just a quick update...

I'm alive. 

I am happy to inform all of you that the blog will be getting a bit more love, especially with my whole schedule opening up now.

There's bigger and better things coming to the blog!

Stay tuned...

Never Said Yes

In Rome in 1997, an 18 year old girl was beyond excited to start her first driving lesson. Her 45 year old instructor had picked her up, and after driving by a couple of blocks, he pulled up in an alley. Never did it pass by in her mind that what would occur to her that day would ruin her. The instructor had sexually assaulted her and threatened her not to say anything or else he would kill her. Abandoned and abused in the alley, the young girl made her way home. After telling her parents what had happened, they helped her report the incident, and the case was prosecuted. The instructor was then convicted of rape and sentenced to jail.

Months later, the perpetrator appealed his sentence. The case made it all the way to the Italian Supreme Court where his sentence was overturned. The instructor was then released out of jail.

"Because the victim wore very very tight jeans, she had to help him remove them... and by removing the jeans... it was no longer rape, but consensual sex." -Head Judge

Denim Day is an event in which people are encouraged to wear jeans in order to raise awareness of rape and sexual assault.

I, for one, feel very attached to this case. Not only does it sadden me to see events like these happen, but it also angers me to see so much ignorance in the world. 

A man is never told that what he is doing is wrong, instead the woman is responsible for his choices. 

For example: a young girl cannot dress a certain way because she would provoke men.

Well how about we all teach men, to keep it in their pants instead of asking me not to wear shorts even if it's 100 degrees outside.

My favorite line is "Honey,don't dress that way if you don't want to be stared at".

I love to dress the way that I do, and I sure as hell am not dressing up for anyone but myself. Sorry to inform you all that I don't dress the way I do to break a couple of necks. I dress the way I do because I feel confident and beautiful in my own skin. 

My other favorite is when you consider me a "bitch" or "stuck-up" because you are staring or complimenting me.

"Hey babe, nice ass" or "Hey baby, how about we take it to my place?" is not a compliment and you undressing me with your eyes is not flattering. In fact, it is repulsive and it makes me sick to my stomach.

So since men don't really think that there is such a thing as rape, because women are always clearly asking for it, let us discuss the difference between "yes" and "no".

CONSENT:

-Willing Participation

-Based on Choice

-Active not passive

-Based on equal power

-Only possible when neither party is incapacitated due to drug or alcohol consumption

-Is given not assumed

-Is not the absence of a no

-Is given during each experience and can be withdrawn at any point.

CONSENT IS NOT

-A drunken "yes"

-Given when one person is under the influence of substances

-Giving in because of fear

-Agreeing to sex because of fear or threats

-Purchased

-Going along in order to gain approval

-Silence

THERE IS NO EXCUSE AND NEVER AN INVITATION TO RAPE

Make a social statement with your fashion statement... WEAR JEANS WITH A PURPOSE.

Start Trends. End Violence

PEACE OVER VIOLENCE. Denim Day, 2015.

Denim: GUESS? *Official Sponsor of Denim Day 2015

Connect with the online movement to end sexual violence 

denimdayinfo.org

Cupid's Chokehold

 

Look 1

Look 2

Look 3

Look 4

If you are a 90's kid, I'm sure you remember all the amazing music and of course, who can forget about the fashion. Some things were a bit questionable looking back...However some of those trends have managed to make a great comeback, such as the choker.

Many people either love or truly hate this trend. For those of you living under a rock, the choker is a close fitting necklace worn around the neck. It comes in many different materials such as velvet, plastic, beads, and any kinds of metals. People usually relate the choker mostly to the "grunge" or "punk" kids. I'm the kind that truly dislikes stereotypes, and I'm glad that this time around the choker is being used in a more fashionable sense. Girls can literally wear this accesory with just about everything and that's the beauty of it.

However there is an ugly side to it. I had stated before, "you either love it, or you truly hate it". That being said, many people have decided that the choker look takes away from a girl, as far as calling her a dog on a leash. I would understand why it's so easy to tease this look when we live in a society that lives to criticize, and I usually am the type who can take a joke. However, there has to be certain limits to things. Comments like these can hurt people, and last time I checked that definitely counts as some form of harrasment/ bullying. That clearly would be the con of this trend.

On a lighter note (and on to pros now), I know that there are some true wonder women out there, and comments like those are easily ignored. :)
The awesome part of this accesory is that has been made to fit every girl's lifestyle out there.

Look 1 is definitely made for a more edgy fashion forward girl. She loves the clasic look but finds a way to make it more innovative.

Look 2 is more of an ethereal style. She's the innocent girl next door, but she isn't afraid to try new things.

Look 3 is for the girl who likes to one up things. She's into more glam statement pieces.

Look 4 is for Miss Rock n Roll. She isn't afraid to rock the classic style.

In conclusion, you're allowed to wear whatever makes you happy and makes you feel beautiful inside and out, even if it is ridiculous in other people's minds. Let them laugh, and better yet let them stare. 

Which choker look fits you the best?

1:Nasty Gal-In the Ring Choker: $35 
2.Nasty Gal-Laced-Up Crochet Choker: $18
3.Nasty Gal-Jewel in the Night Choker: $24.50
4.Nasty Gal-Get Tatted Choker: $12

Aquamarine

Less is more, right? Well that dress would beg to differ. However, I did only use two pieces, a dress and some shoes. Sometimes it isn't necessary to accesorize, I just let the dress do all the talking. 

Sorry boys, but dresses below the knee are so in right now! I wouldn't cry just yet, the advantages to these types of dresses allow you to admire more than just the legs. The waist, hips, and Kim K's best asset (See what I did there?) are in included.

Ultimately, you can go two ways with this, edgy or classy. I went with the second option. I waved my hair to give it that old Hollywood glam, and added pointed- toe heels. Now if I had gone the other way, I would have sleeked my hair back into a ponytail and wore a pair of booties, either way you'd be rocking that dress.

Like I had said before, I've been really trying to use something other than black on black. 

Hope I haven't dissapponted any of you! 

Dress: Material Girl

Shoes: Cosmopolitan

#TeamHairFlipBye

 [Ariana Grande featured in MAY 2014 ELLE MAGAZINE]

As many of you may have seen, a lot of girls have been trying the half up, half down hair-do. Many people may even agree that it's simply just a hair don't, but let us discuss this debate.

Many big name celebrities such as Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez and even Lauren Conrad have been spotted rocking this look. However, I do have to give props to Ariana for starting this craze. She got a lot of criticism about the way she portrays herself, young and bubbly. But that's her persona, and her stylist does an amazing job with her. In conclusion, Ariana can sure rock that hair and many girls must thank her for allowing us to relive old times. 

Here's where I draw the line however, not everyone can pull this look off. You have to be young and courageous to flaunt this weave. To all my J-Lo fans out there (I apologize), but she cannot be rocking a hair- do like that. Yeah, Jenny from the block will always look amazing in our eyes, but think of your mom wearing this do; it's just not right. 

This hairstyle is made for girls who have super thick voluminous hair, not made for thin hair. Why? Try to imagine a rat's tail (shall I go on?). Do not get discouraged my fair ladies, there are of course a lot of tips and tricks to help that situation, but if you aren't willing to put in the work, try the half knot instead! Girls with a thick mane definitely have the advantage with this one. You can go straight for a sexy seductive look, or you can go wavy and curly for a more flirtatious fun look! Either way, you are definitely sure to turn some heads.

Ultimately, I feel like this is any other trend, you can either pull it off or you simply just have to stay away from it.

I personally have not tried this look and in all honestly I don't think it's my style. But... since I have been trying to think outside the box, I might have to give it a try. I'll be sure to update you all as soon as I try it. In the meanwhile, you give it a try! Try to see what style fits you best and twirl that beautiful half pony of yours.  

 

She Believed She Could, So She Did

As some of you may have noticed, I have been MIA for a really long time. I've been super caught up with school and work, that I almost forgot how much fun I had on here. I recently got promoted and have taken a new range of responsibilities. I'm on my final quarters of school, therefore any time left is dedicated to my schoolwork. Becoming an adult has been the scariest experience, especially because I started so young. We all beg to grow- up, but we never think of the actual consequences. We think it's all fun and games, when in reality all I got was sleepless nights and depression.
There's days when I have to cry myself to sleep, because I tell myself that I can't anymore. There are times where I beat myself up (metaphorically of course) and regret everything I've done. You forget about your friends, and push them aside. It's so hard being an adult, and honestly it always seems so much easier to quit.

My birthday was a couple days ago, and that was only another reminder that I'm getting older. However, this birthday was different. I requested the whole weekend off. I had almost forgotten how fun it was to be surrounded by your loved ones. I had forgotten what it was like to go out. To sleep in. To have fun. This birthday, I read the most beautiful birthday card from my mom. It may sound cheesy, but it was the fuel that I needed to keep going. All those horrible days were not in vain. I do have a career. I do know what I'm doing with my life, and I sure as hell believe in myself to keep going. And it all starts here...

I Paint Flowers, So They Will Not Die

Now here, is a very rare sighting. Florals...on me??? I'm usually all about the black on black, and definitely something on the shorter side. But for once, I felt that I could let it slide with this dress. It doesn't have the usual bright flowers that every dress usually has to offer. The color pallette on this one is something I can work with. Of course, I'm leaving out the best part... The whole back on the dress is covered with black mesh. :) Old habits die hard right? Anyways, I have been giving it a try to open my horizons. Print is always something to stand out in, so why wouldn't I want to try it? This year will definitely be filled with more color and patterns! Stay tuned for more ;)

Floral Dress: Material Girl $70
Black Booties: Victoria's Secret $120

Shoutout to Frida Kahlo for the beautiful quote...
"I Paint Flowers, So They Will Not Die"

Dyed Out

I know that you all may hate me for this, but some trends aren't meant to stay forever. I get it, the ombre hair looks good on just about anyone and it's an easy way to add some change to your look. However, don't you think it's a little played out now? It was fun when it started and just about anyone was willing to sacrifice the tips of their hair. You were able to do a subtle ombre or go all out with a neon color. It definitely beats the trend of going all out with one solid color for your whole head. Even Harley probably needs a makeover with those dark tips of hers. However, I have been noticing lately that girls are beggining to chop their hair off. Why? Because they're done dedicating to the ombre look. Can you blame a girl? There's only so much a girl can take before they get sick of looking at dry split ends. Besides, short hair is so in right now, considering the fact that our lovely Cali sun is about to reign over us.

I'm also starting to get sick of turning around and seeing an ombre head everywhere I go. My suggestion is simple, just let your hair breathe for the summer. I stopped dying my hair a couple months ago because I got bored of the black and it was extra money that I could keep in my pocket. My hair is all sorts of colors now, but I ended up getting a better change than what I was expecting.

Now ignore my rant and let us focus on the facts:

During summer you are most likely to damage your beautiful mane.

Taking a dip into that nice pool so you could cool down. Hey you do you, but remember chlorine is definitely not your best friend.

And of course, taking a swim in the big blue sea comes with its consequences with all that sea- salt in there. Putting all those chemicals together along with your dyed out hair, is not a great result for the upcoming season, Fall.

Of course this is just my opinion and you are free to do what you want with your hair, but I am also stating facts out there for you.

Just try something new and ditch this trend that is totes dying out!

Alice in Chains

As a stylist, I tend to have a couple flaws. Sometimes I mix in old trends with new trends, or sometimes to be honest, my outfits contradict each other. However, the biggest flaw I may have is, always forgetting to accesorize.

Sure, maybe I can live without accessories, but they really do end up completing a look. But having to figure out which earrings could go with which top is just too much of a hassle.

I recently have discovered the best accessory out there and I am seriously OBSESSED. The body chain, has got to be the best accesory out there. This insane chain look can really alter any outfit.

Here are a few examples:

1) LBD: Yes, your little black dress will always be there to make you look better than Selina Kyle in her little number, however don't you always want to stand out a bit more? Adding a body chain to your LBD will transform it into a completely different dress and you are sure to turn heads.

2) Casual: If you think the body chain is just for a nice night out, don't you dare lose hope! The point of this accesorie is to bump up your outfit from a 10 to an 11. I personally wear the body chain with just a plain black tee and jeans, and it instantly transforms such a casual outfit to a more bold look.

3) Swimwear: Oh yeah, I am definitely going there... Think it's impossible? Take a look at celebs. Kim Kardashian and Rihanna LOVE to wear a body chain with their favorite bikini, because we all know they aren't going into a pool, they are just flaunting their amazing bodies. Remember, accesories are to decorate, so take advantage of the body chain and decorate that beautiful beach body of yours!

Now it doesn't stop there... The possibilities are endless, but it is up to you to figure out more looks!

Let us remember that all great things must come with great care. Body chains are very sensitive and you should be aware of your surroundings as well as to what kind of occasion you may be taking this to. They also are very likely to tangle up, and how annoying would it be to try to untangle that hot mess? What I do to prevent that is hang it on my mannequin. If you don't have one at home lay it out on your desk or use it as a decoration for your room and let it hang somewhere.

The best part of this trend is that it is not only limited to the body, there are also leg and arm chains. If you would like for me to get into detail with them make sure to leave me a comment!

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram @harleyquinn_ista and make sure you hashtag  your body chain looks to #EmbraceYourChains

For once, don't feel the need to breakaway from a couple of chains, embrace them instead!

nastygal.com $38

Jailbait

All black everything is my fave, but when I can get to add a little white to the mix, it starts to bring me back to my Jester roots. I'm sure Mister J would be proud. Anyways, the reason for this ensemble is simple...I barely bought the top and the body chain and I was just dyyyyiiiing to wear it! The crop top had everything I needed: a cold shoulder, it was a crop, AND the big opening at the back! So I paired it with some high waisted shorts so my mid section wouldn't be showing as much (since I went into work like this). The shoes were a complete accident actually... Funny story really.. The shoes I was wearing had a little mishap so I bought these. Fortunately the story had a happy ending. It totally looked great with the outfit! Some accidents are just meant to be.

Black Cold Shoulder Crop Top: GUESS? $59.50

High Waisted Shorts: Papaya $5

Body Chain: GUESS? $32.50

Elsea Heels: GUESS? $129

Spring Blues

This look was inspired by the ongoing "blue and white" Spring trend. I am really starting to see it everywhere. It looks great on dresses, tops, and shorts. I feel like it is a perfect trend for the spring season. Finally no more bright predictable colors!

Since I picked the blue and white on my shorts, I didn't want to distract from it. That's why I wore a simple black tank. What makes this tank super special is that it has a gold chain on the inside of the shirt. It's most visible on the collar and pocket. To finish off the look, I chose to wear my favorite booties, which has gold buckles so it matches my shirt.

Black tank with chain detail: GUESS?

Acid Wash High Waisted Shorts: GUESS?

Finlay Boots: GUESS?