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Cut the Crap: 10 Easy Ways to Slim Down for Bikini Season

Photography by themanuc

With the holidays out of the way and our first month into 2015 almost complete, this is about the time of year I really kick myself back into gear. Spring is just around the corner, so I thought I’d share some tips for slimming down and getting that svelte bikini body we all aim for. These tips may not seem effective on their own but they most certainly are and when combined, you create an all around healthier, happier lifestyle.

1) Eat Less Bread. I know, I know. Bread is one of my favorite things too, especially croissants but, you can easily save yourself calories and even sugars by nixing some of the bread in your diet. So next time you pull into In-N-Out, just remember to order that burger protein style!

2) Drink More Water! Most of us don’t drink as much water as we’re supposed to each day but it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking water moisturizes and replenishes your body. If you tend to get headaches, dehydration could be the culprit. In order to liven up my daily intake, I drink lots of decaffeinated tea instead of coffee and I also buy large bags of lemons to squeeze into my water throughout the day. Not only does that provide you with a quick boost of vitamins but it’s an appetite suppressant that also helps clear up your skin and detoxify your body. Not bad. I’d say the glass is definitely looking half full, wouldn’t you?

3) Try New Recipes. This may sound obvious to some. Or maybe you don’t cook at all! Eating at home is one of the best ways to really know what’s in your food. When you prepare your own meals you know exactly how much fat, sodium and sugars are being used, making it a lot easier to cut back. By trying new recipes, I’ve found a new appreciation for foods that I would’ve never known I liked. I already tend to be an adventurous eater but I was surprised to find how many things at my regular grocery store I had never eaten. Another great way to cut corners is to replace typical recipes with healthier alternatives. One of my favorite spaghetti alternatives is using spaghetti squash instead of pasta noodles. If you’re interested in the recipe I use, comment below and maybe I’ll do a post on it.

4) Just Say No to High Fructose Corn Syrup! This is non-negotiable for me when I purchase anything from the grocery store. High fructose corn syrup leads to “increased metabolic disturbances that drive increases in appetite, weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, dementia and more.” HFCS is used as a cheaper substitution for real sugar so chances are, if a product contains it, you probably shouldn’t be eating it anyways. As a general rule of thumb, only purchase food with real, recognizable ingredients.

5) Replace Your Salad Dressing & Ditch the Croutons. Most dressings contain a ton of sugar. Unfortunately, the creamier the dressing, the more deliciously fattening it is. Did you know that a McDonald’s salad with dressing and croutons has nearly double the amount of calories and triple the amount of fat than a standard burger? Pretty disillusioning but a great reminder for the next time you’re at the salad bar. I opt for a drizzle of olive oil and some mashed avocados in my salad to give it a creamy, dressing like taste.

6) Healthy Desserts. It’s ok to splurge here and there. In fact, I think it’s healthy to! But, if you tend to get a sweet tooth after dinner, there are ways to curb it with healthier alternatives. One of my favorite quick dessert recipes consists of only two ingredients: sliced apples and cinnamon. They’re crunchy, sweet and totally hit the spot. Try baking them in the oven for a more pie-like treat! Fruit is a great way to get your sugar fix but be careful not to overdo it, especially with dried fruits. Remember: everything in moderation.

7) Snacking Through the Day. This may seem counterintuitive when trying to slim down but it’s actually a great way to keep your metabolism going and burning calories. Of course you want to make sure you’re putting nutritious things in your body so be conscientious of the snacks you choose. I get bored easily with the same foods so I’m always looking for new products at the market but my go to snacks when packing a bag for long shoots are cut veggies with hummus (there are individual serving packs or I scoop some into tupperware), nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts), sunflower seeds, boiled eggs, fresh cut fruit, avocado toast with cucumbers and fresh pepper and turkey & lettuce rollups with spicy mustard. Low-carb, high-fiber foods take more time to digest than other foods, which leaves you feeling full for longer periods of time.

8) Limit White Foods. With the exception of white meat, white foods generally contain a lot of fat and carbs. This includes butter, breads, potatoes, rice, creamy dishes, pastas and all those other delectable foods that are coming to mind.

9) Relax! Getting enough sleep is important for many reasons but eventually your metabolism will slow down without the proper amount of rest. Additionally, the stress in your body can release cortisol, causing calories to be stored as fat.

10) Exercise!!! Last but certainly not least, it is MOST important that you create a healthy environment within your body by being physically active. There is only so much that tricks and tips can do. The bottom line is that exercise is necessary and it can be fun, too! I’d much rather be outside than stuck in a gym so I alternate between rollerblading, biking, hiking and whatever other random events play into my life throughout the week. Last weekend it was snowboarding…great workout by the way. I’m still sore! For those of you who don’t live in a temperate paradise like California, your living room can be a great place to get your heart rate up for at least 10 minutes a day. For more on that, visit our previous blog. There are always little ways to burn extra calories through the day by parking in further spots, taking the stairs and even doing ab strengthening exercises while sitting in the car or at your desk. Every bit counts! Be proactive about being active!

January 29, 2015
Snowboarding in Big Bear (Video!)

I spent this past weekend in Big Bear, CA with a great group of friends to celebrate my birthday and get in a little snowboard action. As this was only my 5th or 6th time actually snowboarding, I was faced with the challenge of pushing myself to finally learn how to ride toe edge once and for all. For those of you who don’t know what that means, let me sum it up by saying it’ s completely intimidating and has been the most difficult maneuver to master thus far, at least for me.

Getting better at something that commands repetition and exerting so much physical AND mental strength seems daunting, if not impossible when faced with such a situation. Multiply that by high speeds, slippery slopes and painful trial and error. It’s a learning curve that is procured the hard way but is incredibly rewarding when you begin to see the results of your effort. By the end of our second and final day snowboarding, I made a conscious decision to not be afraid of toe edge. I knew I wouldn’t be happy with myself if I left this trip go by without passing another milestone in my quest to master the board. Playing sports all my life undoubtably attributes to my ambitious nature. I believe sports creates a healthy, competitive environment and pushes you to your limits in order to succeed. The feeling of accomplishment is an incomparable high that keeps me motivated to try even harder on the next go. Sure enough, once I let go of fear and trusted my instincts, I was gliding down the slope with not only ease but an overwhelming amount of confidence.

The reason I’m sharing this story is not to bore you with my novice snowboarding achievements but to share my mini epiphany. As I sat in the hot tub and grimaced with sore muscles and weary bones, I thought some more about what challenges me. We all have goals set for ourselves, some are more complicated tasks than others but ultimately we should be working towards a bigger picture each and every day. Often times we put imaginary limitations on our desires because the fear of failing clouds our rational thinking to a point where it feels more safe to not do anything at all. Some people may describe that feeling as anxiety. We’re all guilty of experiencing it once in a while but the goal, if you dare take it on, is to confront it instead of letting it get the best of you. Once you challenge it, there must be an outcome and, at the very least, it comes with a sense of pride for having the capability to address your insecurities. It means you are willing to take steps to improve yourself, your life and become someone who has the ability to evolve into an all around better person.

With all these realizations occurring in my mind, I was forced to confront my own inadequacies. I have told myself for some time now, perhaps years, that I would create an outlet to share my world with others through pictures, videos and writing. I finally began that journey in late August 2014 by starting this very blog and it’s been the most gratifying experience, career-wise, that I’ve ever felt. Not that starting a travel and lifestyle blog is a very risky thing, but putting your personal images, thoughts and feelings up for criticism by the whole world, bi-weekly, can make one apprehensive. Now that I have successfully created and nurtured DeziStyle.com to where it is, the time has come to do what I set out to do a long time ago; share my videos with you. But since I know myself well enough to know it’s better to set ongoing goals, I am hereby daring myself to a 30 day video challenge!

For the next month, I will be adding a video clip to my YouTube channel each day (or at least try my best to). Long or short, funny or not, raw or edited to perfection, I will share a piece of my life with you all, whatever it may be. And, if you’re feeling inspired or would like to join me on this challenge, tag me! I’d love to do it together!

Since my revelation came to me in the form of snowboarding, it’s only appropriate that it be the first video to start the challenge. Here’s to taking risks, following through and evolution!

**UPDATE! Since this post was created, I have joined the social media platform, Snapchat (username: DeziStyle). For those very few who don’t know about this new sharing app, it’s basically a medium for anyone to instantly share picture and/or video content with fans. The catch: it disappears the moment it has been viewed or at maximum, 24 hours, depending on the sender’s preference. This is where I have found that it’s easier for me to share myself, my thoughts and adventures in a raw, organic, in the moment approach. However, I am not giving up on YouTube so be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for upcoming videos! =)

[videos file=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02Fcvhc2r4I” width=”535″ height=”301″][/videos]

January 27, 2015
Newport Beach Casual Afternoon Outfit

Location: Balboa Island, Newport Beach, CA.

Boots by Old Gringo Boots

Special thanks to CLD Style House

Let me start by saying that Balboa is quite the charming little island in Newport Beach. The community is accessible by a 3 car ferry boat and consists of a handful of quaint streets lined with waterside luxury cottages. In the center lies the main shopping strip, noticeably boasting multiple frozen banana pop shops and stores filled with random trinkets. It was the perfect crisp afternoon to take these boots for a go and do a little sightseeing.

January 22, 2015
Get Your Butt in Gear: 3 Exercises That Will Sculpt & Lift

Photography by Jennifer Biswas

I long for the day when my workouts aren’t squeezed in between meetings and auditions. Perhaps one day I’ll be one of those Bel-Air women who spend their afternoons in yoga pants, walking their dogs and gossiping with neighbors all day, but until then, my workouts need to be as efficient as possible.

People tend to be surprised when I tell them that I rarely use weights in my fitness routine but, it’s a misconception to think you can’t tone your body without them. On the contrary, the exercises I utilize to maintain core strength and define muscle are simple calisthenics that can be done almost anywhere.

These three maneuvers are my favorite exercises to do whenever I have a spare 10-15 minutes to fit in some “gym time”. Although it may seem like I’m only targeting the gluteus, you are in fact, toning arms and abs as well! I’d like to think of them as ninja techniques because they are swift, effective and relatively painless. Try this routine everyday for at least one week and tell me you don’t see and feel a difference in your body. I bet you can’t!

Exercise 1: SQUATS!

The dreaded squats! Don’t worry, they’re not so bad if you break them up into sets. Start by standing as tall as you can with your feet spread apart about shoulder-width. Then lower your body as far as you can by bending your knees and pushing your hips back. Pause for a moment and then slowly push yourself back to the starting position. If you are already physically active, try doing 4 sets of 25 throughout this routine. If not, begin your first few days by starting with 2 sets of 25 and incrementally adding more throughout the week.

Exercise 2: BACKWARDS LEG EXTENSION

The name sounds more complicated than it is. You can do this while on hands and knees for more stability, or try facing a chair, bend your body at the waist and place your hands flat down near the edge of the seat. Kick your left leg straight back, keeping your foot flexed so it forms a straight line with your torso. Lower your leg back down and repeat. Do an equal number of sets for each leg. I would recommend you start with 25 each and gradually add more throughout the weeks ahead. Be sure you squeeze your glutes and leg muscles during the kicks and use slow, steady movements. When your leg is as stretched back as possible, hold for a few extra seconds and really try to elongate your spine and leg as much as you can. You should be able to feel your abs tightening.

Exercise 3: KNEE TO ELBOW PLANKS

Planking may not be the most exciting exercise but it is a great core strengthening workout. You can try normal planking until you feel more comfortable to step it up to the next level of difficulty. When you’re ready, start in a plank position and bring your right knee in towards your chest, keeping your other foot on the floor to balance. Bring your knee into your chest a total of 25 times and then alternate sides. For advanced people, try doing a push up in between each rep.

**These exercises should be practiced safely and with the correct techniques. If you ever feel pain that does not feel like normal discomfort caused by exercising, stop immediately and make sure you are training accurately so you do not injure yourself. Saftety first!

January 20, 2015
Wake up Happy: 5 Ways to Start Your Day off Right!

Photography by themanuc

The way in which you begin your day, determines the rest of it. You don’t need science to prove that. We’ve all had those mornings where the alarm didn’t go off, you spilled coffee on your shirt or stubbed your big toe rushing out the door, and there’s nothing fun about it. I am firm believer in the power of thought and the energy we send and receive from it, but sometimes I need a little reminder to realign myself in order to improve the imminent and inevitable future that lies ahead. Once I realized the impact my feelings had on the outcome of any given situation, I made a conscious decision to focus on interpreting everything around me in a more positive, empathetic manner. This shift in attitude will greatly enhance the quality of your life and depth of your relationships with others. So, what are some ways we can jumpstart each day in a positive direction you may ask!

As someone who is constantly in some kind of spotlight, it can be difficult to be “on” at all times, especially when you’re just not feeling it, but the show must go on. These 5 tips will help put your mind on the right path and empower your inner spirit to take on the day ahead! If you have any methods that work well for you, I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comment box below.

1. Greet the day with love. If you’re like most of us and wake up to the sound of an alarm clock, try using it as a trigger to smile really big and acknowledge your gratitude for another day. I know how cliché and “self-helpy” it sounds but you’ll just have to trust me. Smiling releases endorphins (the feel good stuff in our brain) as well as boosts our immune systems. Plus, I’m sure your significant other wouldn’t mind the delightful greeting either. Chances are, the happier you are when you wake up, the better your day will be.

Also, if you have the ability to change your alarm tone, chose a soothing one that gradually increases in volume. Being disrupted from your REM cycle can cause groggy and even grumpy mornings but using gradual tones or even light to wake your body is healthier and more beneficial to your mental state of being.

2. Begin each day with forgiveness. I do my best to approach life (and others) from a place of love and understanding. Carrying resentment, jealousy, fear or insecurities into a brand new day won’t do anything but create a breeding ground for problems to compound. By allowing the past to remain there, you are free to begin your day with a fresh slate and a pure heart.

“You can visit your past, but the price you pay is your future.”

3. Be silly. Life gets so serious when we have to start paying bills and making responsible adult decisions, but don’t loose your silliness. It’s important to be able to let go of inhibitions and release ourselves from the confines that society does so well to keep in place. Play music while you prepare for your day and don’t be afraid to sing and dance along while doing so. The ability to poke fun, make light of situations and enjoy the true child-like giddiness that burns deep within ourselves is what keeps people young, in love and I do believe, sane.

4. Stretch it out. We tend to carry most of our stress throughout the muscles in our body. Tension is the most common side effect to stress and negative emotions so, quite obviously, stretching helps to work out the kinks. Inhale deeply and exhale any negative thoughts with each breath. Think of it as a mini yoga session for your body. Not only does it feel amazing, but the simple act of it improves your circulation, helps to prevent injuries in the future and relives stress and anxiety. You will feel leaner and walk taller, making you appear more confident and successful altogether. The benefits are truly endless.

5. Be Adventurous! Take risks! Try something new! Whatever you do, don’t become monotonous. Routines are wonderful but be wary of the side effects a mundane schedule can create. We can all use a little excitement in our day to day so why not try that new recipe, hike that mountain, sing the ever loving crap out of that bad 80’s song at karaoke night, or find a different route home (what if you discover something new in doing so)! The more experiences you create, the more fulfilling your life will be. Don’t hold back. As my mom always says, “You can sleep when you’re dead!”

January 15, 2015
2015 Golden Globe Awards : 8 Underrated Red Carpet Looks

While some of the attire at this year’s Golden Globes proved to be a bit lackluster, it remained an arduous battle to steal the spotlight from J.Lo’s well oiled…”globes” as Jeremy Renner would refer to them. With all the buzz around J.Lo’s slits and Jared Leto’s man braid, I felt some of my favorite ensembles were a little overshadowed by it all. Most of you would agree that these outfits still possess a distinct sophistication and intrinsic beauty without any of the “in your face” qualities others may have boasted. Here are my top 8 looks from the 2015 Golden Globe Awards.

1. Kate Beckinsale can do no wrong. She is simply stunning in this Elie Saab dress. It’s a fabulous shape with tasteful cleavage and an incredibly seductive tonality. I even love the subtle edge that painting her nails black gave such an elegant dress. Total win in my book.

Outfit details: Elie Saab dress | Salvatore Ferragamo shoes | Rauwolf clutch | Lorraine Schwartz jewelry

2. Lorde deserves some recognition for graciously pulling off a look that can easily be referred to as masculine or unattractive when not fitted correctly. By now, you already know I’m a sucker for black but the combination of the exquisite feminine neck piece, fresh faced makeup and smoothed side part pony tail was also very well executed. The crop top was a nice touch to an otherwise mature getup, making Lorde out to be quite the young woman.

Outfit details: Custom suit and crop top by Narciso Rodriguez | Neil Lane diamonds (100-carat diamond and platinum Cleopatra necklace & five diamond and platinum rings)

3. Leslie Mann is such a babe. She couldn’t have picked a color more suited to her luminous personality than this bright canary yellow dress by Kaufmanfranco. Yellow is a tough color to pull off but not for this fabulous, fit momma of two.

Outfit Details: Kaufmanfranco dress | Jimmy Choo shoes | Ferragamo clutch | Kimberly McDonald jewels Ka

4. Diane Kruger embodies iconic beauty with this classic metallic dress. Everything about this look was done with such delicate consideration. Love, love, love it.

Outfit details: Emilia Wickstead dress | Kwiat & Marina B jewels | Emm Kuo mother-of-pearl box clutch

5. Greer Grammar is a name I think we’ll be hearing much more of in 2015. MTV’s Awkward starlet held the highly coveted title of Miss Golden Globe this year. Greer picked this lovely dress by Lorena Sarbu and rocked the heck out of it on stage all night long.

Outfit details: Lorena Sarbu dress | Jimmy Choo shoes | Neil Lane jewelry

6. Reese Witherspoon shines bright like a diamond in this show stopper of a gown. Simplistic, fabulous and as sparkly as her personality. Not to mention those dreamy jewels by Tiffany & Co she’s wearing, at an estimated worth of $1.5 million.

Outfit details: Calvin Klein dress | Tiffany & Co jewelry

7. Kitt Harington had to be on this list. You didn’t think I would share my favorite looks and not give it up to the fellas, would ya? The men are always outshone by the glitz and glamour of the women’s gowns, with the exception of Conchita Wurst of course, but mister Harington deserves a round of applause with this dapper concoction of sleek lines and sex appeal.

8. Matt Bomer and Kitt Harington looked a bit like tuxedo twins this evening but I’ll leave the “who wore it best” debate up to you. Both men rocked the black and blue combo quite well so I’d be willing to call it a draw.

Outfit details: Ralph Lauren Black Label tuxedo

Comment below and let us know which look was your favorite!

January 13, 2015
Beach Day in Akumal

Photography by Richie Chance

Location: Akumal, Mexico

Bikini by Siempre Golden

Special Thanks to CLD

After much anticipation, it was refreshing to step off the plane in Cancun with a burst of humid air sweeping over my airport chilled bones. Over the course of the past year, I’d heard a lot about this budding new town called Tulum. Located in the Yucatan peninsula, it had a similar vibe to much of the Mexico I know closer to home in California, only this seemed to have a bit more mysticism in the air. The history of the Mayan empire fascinated me and I couldn’t wait to explore the ruins as well as the cenotes. If you’ve never heard of a cenote, I highly recommend you google it.

Amongst other activities, I was eager to find the best tacos in town (which I did) and visit the beautiful beaches of Tulum and Akumal. Unfortunately, the saying is true, “If you want to make God laugh, just tell him your plan”. It down poured 4 out of the 5 days throughout my trip. I wasn’t able to visit the ruins or the cenotes as planned. Instead, I used the only semi-sunny afternoon to race over to the beach. After all, it wouldn’t have truly felt like a trip to Mexico without at least a couple hours in my bikini, and a very cute one I might add.

After lunch at La Buena Vida, I stripped down to this incredibly feminine yet sexy floral print bikini by Siempre Golden and enjoyed the hell out of my solo sunny day. Hey, I’ll take what I can get. I was just grateful for a luminous afternoon, but you’d better believe I’ll be back for more.

January 8, 2015
How to: Chic Braided Bun Updo

Photography by Jen Biswas

Braids are one of the easiest ways to create a chic updo in just minutes. A style such as this one may seem like something you could only achieve after a trip to the salon, but I teamed up with PuckerandPout.com to show you how to create this beautiful hair style for any occasion. The great news is, perfection is not required for this look, sometimes the messier, the better. Just follow these six simple steps and let the compliments roll in.

Step 1: Spray hair with dry shampoo and comb through evenly. This will give hair more texture and make the braiding process easier.

Step 2: Separate hair into two sections with one side being a deeper part than the other.

Step 3: Grab the sections of the hair closest to the front of the hair and begin a fish braid. To do so, simply divide the hair into 2 equal sections. Begin the braid by gathering a small section of hair on the outer side of the parted side and join it directly across the part into the opposite portion or hair. Fishtail each side and secure the ends with clear rubber bands.

Step 4: Use your fingers to gently pull the braids apart just enough to make a loose braid. This will give the updo a fuller appearance.

Step 5: Twist the first braid into a bun-like shape and secure it to your head with bobby pins. Take the second braid and wrap around the first braid and secure with more bobby pins. Be sure to hide the ends of the braids by tucking them in. Feel free to use the comb’s pick to exaggerate the pulled braid look or leave it as is for a more uniform look.

Step 6: Mist hair with a light hair spray to keep it in place and voila! You’ve created a masterpiece!

Special thanks to Katie Maloney and Jen Biswas of PuckerandPout.com

January 6, 2015
New Years Eve Outfit Guide

Photography by Richie Chance

Tops & skater skirts by Endless Rose |Shoes by LolaShoetique | Watch by Michael Kors | Earrings by Vince Camuto

Special Thanks to Chic Little Devil

Location: Mizner Park | Boca Raton, Florida

I’ll be the first to admit that after the holidays, the mere thought of braving the mall once again to scavenge for a New Years Eve outfit is anything but exciting. Fortunately, I hit the jackpot when I discovered Endless Rose. Their collections are stunning and unique. I ended up having difficulty choosing just one outfit (which never happens to me). Instead of waiting to shoot the rest until after the big day, I wanted to share each one with you for a little holiday inspiration. Despite their pieces being perfectly fit an occasion such as NYE, these can be dressed up or down and worn any time throughout the year for a dazzling night on the town or even Sunday brunch with the girls. After all, isn’t it always best to be dressed to impress? I think, yes!

December 31, 2014
The Beauty Guide to Staying Healthy & Hydrated During the Holiday Season

Staying hydrated is crucial to your health, appearance and overall well being, so DeziStyle is here to help you target some key areas. These products are personal favorites but feel free to take the concept and find a brand that suits your preferences. I tend to opt for natural products as often as I can and there are a lot of great ones out there if you’re willing to do a little research.

With proper hydration your skin will glow, your hair & nails will grow stronger, and you are less susceptible to disease and other ailments. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to function properly so why not give it what it needs to preform at full steam. Here are a few ways to feel revitalized and pamper yourself from the inside out. Take note that some of these products are best used during drier months and may be switched out when the weather warms up and humidity levels rise again.

1. Keep your hair happy and healthy!

The winter can be harsh on your hair, even in sunny California, so it’s important to take extra care during the cooler months when the weather is dry. Brittle hair isn’t a good look on anyone so do yourself a favor and be sure to give your luscious locks a little more TLC this holiday season. Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask has traveled the world in my toiletries bag to give my hair some serious hydration when I’m on the go. I love the smell and it makes my hair so smooth and silky, even after one treatment.

2. Keep your kisser kissable!

There’s nothing worse than ending up with dry, cracked lips under the mistletoe so why not put an end to painful dry lips with an inexpensive, mega-intense lip repair by Aquaphor. It has vitamin C & E, shea butter and a soothing chamomile essence. I use it in my routine every morning and before bed each night.

3. Supplement your daily intake

We all indulge during the holidays, at least just a little. Our sugar and alcohol levels are generally spiked as much as the holiday party’s punch bowl and sleep schedules are far from what they were just before months before. We tend to deplete ourselves of the proper nutrients in favor of flaky pies and holiday themed cocktails but I always treat myself to a boost of nutrition every morning with a medley of vitamins including biotin (for hair & nails), vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin D3, zinc, omega 3 fish oil, calcium, collagen, lecithin & B-complex. They vary depending on symptoms or necessity but the aforementioned are my staples. However, let’s say you’d prefer to take one, all encompassing vitamin instead. MegaFood is a terrific brand that is certified farm fresh and vegan, amongst it’s many accolades. They offer a women’s multi-vitamin that can be taken even on an empty stomach. Perfect for combating those caffein filled mornings that I know we are all guilty of.

4. Keep your cuticles hydrated

Keep your mani fresh and revitalize your cuticles with Julep Essential Cuticle Oil. This travel sized roll-on oil contains 7 essential oils for strengthening nails and cuticles and smells therapeutic. *Pro tip: Use a small amount of the oil to tame fly aways

5. Don’t forget to moisturize

I truly am obsessed with this Intensive Care lotion by Eucerin. It’s the bomb.com and I tell no lies. Just think of the difference it would make on his hands too. 😉

6. Seal your locks

My hair dresser started using this on my hair years ago and I never looked back. I use this at home, at the salon, and on my travels. Literally wherever my hair goes, so does Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum.

7. Plump up your face

Moisturizing your skin fills in lines and reduces the appearance of imperfections. By applying a quality moisturizer each day, your skin will radiate health, youth, and be less prone to acne. I’ve been using this one for years now. In fact, I own quite the arsenal of Raya products because they are made with excellent ingredients and work very well. I use this Vitamin B cream during the winter and switch to the Vitaplex-C revitalizing cream to replenish vitamins C, A, D, and B as well as help combat UV radiation. It’s non-greasy but deeply soothing to the skin and made of key natural ingredients. Check out their whole line of products at Raya.com

8. Teatox: Delicious & Nutritious!

I have yet to meet a tea I do not like and luckily my tenacious addiction is a healthy one. I choose my tea based on time of day, flavor and medicinal benefits. I strongly urge you to research your top health concerns (ex: weight loss, immunity, digestion, cramps, energy) and pick a tea recommended to aid in each scenario. Drinking tea throughout the day keeps you hydrated but it’s hard to take with you when you’re busy. My most used item I own could quite possibly be my sealable Thermus brand tumbler. It keeps the liquid inside either cold or hot for up to 8 hours. (Why not add this item to your XMAS list! Any avid coffee or tea drinker would definitely appreciate one of these).

9. Make ’em hard

My sexual innuendos may be weak but my nails won’t be! OPI Nail Envy is going to cost you a little more than your average polish but you can count on having strong, lustrous nails with the use of this strengthening formula.

10. Feelin’ Fresh

Use an all natural toner like this floral rose water by Fresh. It’s 100% pure rose water and helps to sooth & tone your face. This concoction gets extra points for being sulfate free with no synthetic dyes or fragrances. A nice, refreshing mist or two is all you need after cleansing the skin.

December 16, 2014
DIY: Distressed Denim Jeans for Beginners

What you’ll need:

A pair of jeans

A pen

Coarse sandpaper

Scissors

An insertable sturdy surface (mini cutting board)

A little elbow grease & patience!

Step One: Find an old pair of jeans to practice on if you’ve never tried distressing your own jeans before. Unfortunately I learned that the hard way. If you don’t have a pair you’re willing to test your skills on, head to a local thrift store and pick up a pair for a couple bucks. You’ll be glad you did should your sanding not go as planned. Typically the lighter the shade, the better it seems to look, so opt for lighter denim when picking your pair.

Step Two: Put your jeans on and use a pen to mark a rough outline of where you want to place your distress marks. It’s important to make the marks while wearing them to avoid awkward placement.

Step Three: Insert a sturdy surface into the pant leg just under the area you wish to distress. I have used items like mini cutting boards or even a magazine. Next, use a decent sized strip of coarse sandpaper to rub the denim in a vertical, methodical motion. This is where patience and persistence comes into play. It’s tedious work but once you start wearing down the area it becomes a little easier. You may also use a pair of scissors but don’t overdo it. Cutting with scissors won’t give you the frayed look we’re going for but it will help with small cuts and tears.

Feel free to (for lack of a better word) go H.A.M. and distress the hell out of them. If you’re arm gets tired, try using different tools. I once used a cheese grating stick to break the fibers apart so there’s no limit on the instruments you can utilize.

You can reinforce your marks by stitching around it but I prefer to let mine progressively change over time with natural wear and tear. Think of this process as a head start. Once you’re satisfied with the amount of distress, you’re done! Shake the loose sandpaper and threads off and enjoy!

December 11, 2014
Lounging in Beverly Hills with Vitamin A Swimwear

Photography by Dreamstate Photos

Bikini Bottoms by Vitamin A Swimwear

As southern Californians we like to pretend we experience all four seasons, but quite frankly, there are plenty of pool days scattered throughout fall and winter. Some days I wear a bikini around the house because it’s just more comfortable. Point being, we never truly experience an off season for bikinis and if you’re anything like me you’re always on the prowl for the next beach destination or steamy jacuzzi. I think you see where I’m going with all of this. No matter where you are or what season we’re in, any scenario that involves a bikini is probably going to be an enjoyable one and I want to feel my best.

Picking the right suit is half the battle…or in this case, picking half the suit was my only battle. I love these bottoms by Vitamin A because they’re unique but understated & reversible (or at least I’ve been wearing them that way). The reverse side is a shimmering gold and black blend that works just as well when flipped inside out. I know I say this a lot but, I absolutely love versatility!

December 9, 2014
8 Great Gift Ideas for Jet Setters

Shopping for gifts can be hard and with the holidays just around the corner it’s time to start thinking about checking some names off your list! If you’ve got someone in mind who’s been known to traverse the globe, look no more for the perfect gift. I compiled a list of 8 great gift ideas to choose from that can be appreciated by one experienced traveler to another.

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Personalized Travel Accessories: These leather accessories from Neiman Marcus are the perfect gift for anyone who’s always on the go. Choose from passport covers, luggage tags, travel wallet and zippered carrying cases with chic graphics and a variety of colors to choose from. $22+

The Perfect Weekender: I seem to always have a travel bag packed whether its for darting from photoshoot to audition or getting the hell out of dodge for the weekend. Needles to say it’s something I basically use on a daily basis so it might as well be pretty! This weekender by Tuscany Leather is quite a show stopper in red but there are other options for those who prefer to be a little more demure. $290

External Charger: This little gadget has saved me on so many occasions when my battery was dying and there’s no time or place to plug in. I personally recommend this charger by Mophie. I’ve gotten about two full charges on my iPhone from one battery life cycle, which is pretty darn good if you ask me. There’s no more stressing the next time you board a long flight with one of these bad boys in tow. $130

Bluetooth Travel Speaker: As most know, I’m somewhat “ambiance obsessed”. I love having certain comfort items with me when I’m on the road, including my music. It makes me feel more at home when I’m staying in hotels or even just lounging by the pool. iHome is a great brand and after a year of constant use, mine is still as good as new. The sound is great and so is the price. What more can you ask for? $30

Ear Buds: Traveling with your own pair is necessary. Yurbuds are a great fit for those who want to utilize all of the convenient features they offer such as remote volume control, a speaker for taking calls, and being sweat & water resistant with a twist lock feature. They’re great for travel and the gym! $20

Travel Organizers: If cleanliness is next to godliness, I’m sure organization is somewhere in the mix. These bags by Travel Smith are a great way to access exactly what you need and keep track of what you brought. They can also come in handy for those times when your bag is overweight and you need to stuff a few things in your carry-on. $23

Hero 4 GoPro: Let’s put it this way- I have two. Some of my favorite videos along my travels were taken on GoPros. The newest GoPro, the Hero 4, features 4K30, 2.7K50 and 1080p120 video, 12MP photos up to 30 frames per second, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®, and Protune™ for photos and video. Waterproof to 131’. $499

International Converter: I’ve been through several over the years but I really like this iGo because it allows me to simultaneously charge two other devices through it’s USB ports. $20

December 4, 2014
How to Wear 1 Skirt 4 Ways: A Lesson in Versatility

Photography by Devin Anderson

As a creature of habit, I tend to buy things that are easy to transform and go well with multiple options. I really adore this skirt by Sa Vous for it’s contemporary femininity and classic fit. I need not mention how attractive a simple black or white outfit can be.

Here are four different looks that are easy to execute and super cute to wear on a day out shopping or a night on the town, all featuring Sa Vous. You don’t need to limit your wardrobe by always pairing the same things with your favorite pieces. Try alternative accessories or some statement jewelry to switch up the typical style of your selected piece. Hats always tend to be my go to because I feel like it can really tie an outfit together and gives a bit of chic appeal to rather ordinary outfits. The point is, don’t get stuck with traditional trends. Next time you buy something, see how many ways you can wear it!

Skirt by Sa Vous | Top by Express | Shoes by Shoe Dazzle

Skirt by Sa Vous | Sweater by Kimchi Blue | Necklace by DeziBijou |Shoes by Lola Shoetique

Skirt by Sa Vous | Top by Express | Hat by Aldo | Shoes by GUESS

Skirt by Sa Vous | Jacket by Bebe | Shoes by Steve Madden

December 2, 2014
The Girl Next Door

Photography by Themanuc

Denim Shorts by Abercrombie | Bralette by Forever 21

Combine denim with white lace and you have two of my favorite things. This simplistic marriage of delicate and rugged make a perfect match for a casual day.

I love these bralettes because you can wear them in so many ways. In a previous post, I showed you how to pair a Victoria’s Secret bralette with a similar outfit but you could also wear it with a high waisted skirt & blazer for a sexy evening out on the town. Forever 21 & Planet Blue currently have a great variety to chose from with chic cuts and beautiful colors, so it’s a great time to stock up!

Tag @DeziStyle/#DeziStyle on your favorite bralette for a chance to be featured!

November 25, 2014
Eurotrip Flashback

Photography by Richie Chance

With summer now being a thing of the past, I couldn’t help but reminisce through photos from my September travels through Europe. Time has flown by but my senses are still tingling with the sights and smells of Italy, Paris and Copenhagen. It’s hard to believe the holiday season is already upon us and it’s time to jet set again. But first, I wanted to share a few more unpublished photos from the trip with you all. Au Revoir!

Ah, the Paris metro. I’m glad the picture turned out because we missed the last train home that night!

He was such a sport. I wonder why he’s smiling so big.

Did a little stand-in work while I was at Versailles…

Ancient wall in the Versailles gardens= prime selfie real estate.

On a mission to find the best pasta spot in Venice, Italy.

These boots were made for walking.

Wandered into a unique exhibit while in Venice, Italy.

On a gelato mission, of course.

Mission Accomplished.

Street art in Copenhagen.

Stopped by a roadside produce stand in Positano for some fresh squeezed OJ and a bundle of grapes.

Attempting to show the Venetians some David Blaine magic.

Evenings in Positano are so dreamy.

Beautiful Copenhagen.

A city that has bike lanes, great food, city wide rollerblading parties and a green light district. Copenhagen should be renamed ‘Dopenhagen’.

When in Rome…go visit David, the mastermind behind Mela e Cannella gelateria.

November 18, 2014
Pink by Victoria’s Secret

Photography by Dreamstate Photos

Bra & panty set by Victoria’s Secret

Special thanks to Privé Luxury Rentals

Lingerie is one of the most intimate forms of self expression and can undoubtedly tell you a lot about that person. Every woman has her own definition of beauty but I think it’s important to state that confidence should come first and foremost. It should enhance the way we feel about our bodies, boosting our self esteem and ultimately, our love lives.

So, when shopping for the perfect bra and panty set, look for something that takes you outside of your typical comfort zone. Try different cuts, prints and fabrics to find what suits your personality and body type best. Although worn mostly under clothes, I find that I carry myself with more poise and take better care of my body when I feel good about my undergarments. It’s OK to feel feminine…or frisky! Lingerie allows us to explore a side of ourselves that tend to get neglected in our day to day lives so go on and empower your inner goddess!

November 13, 2014
Hello, Moto

Photography by Themanuc

Moto Leggings by BCBG Max Azria | Peplum Top by Nasty Gal | Shoes by Lola Shoetique

Every year I look forward to breaking out my combination pant-leggings (peggings?). In my book, they are the perfect pant. Comfortable, yet chic enough to dress up.

These paneled moto pants have a kickass edge to them so I paired it with a white peplum top by Nasty Gal to add a touch of femininity. However, you could try wearing them with a cute crop top and some Chucks or an oversized sweater with ankle boots for a more casual look. There are quite a few brands that carry moto style leggings but BCBG fits me like a glove and is crafted of comfy, durable materials. I’m not going to lie, I kinda felt like a super hero as I sashayed my way around town today. It just goes to show you, there’s power in a great pair of pants.

*Tip: If you’re looking for an inexpensive alternative, Forever 21 carries a pair of moto pants that are almost identical to the ones shown in this post.

November 11, 2014
4 Fresh Hats by YUMS Life

Photography by Devin Anderson

Hats & Beanies by YUMS Life

Hats, or snapbacks, as they are more commonly referred to today, can be a girls best friend. They accessorize our outfits, hide your hair when you don’t feel like doing it and protect us from the wind and sun. Thankfully the weather in L.A. has been pretty extraordinary but these well insulated beanies are going to be perfect for those brisk fall days.

I’ve been a fan of the YUMS Life brand for a while now and I’m always excited to see their newest designs. As you know, plaid has been a big trend this year but I have yet to see a snapback “out-cute” this one. Something about these hats make me feel like a feminine badass and I really dig the bright, vibrant use of colors too. There’s no denying the “cool factor” they bring.

When I set out to write this blog I wanted to share my top three styles but it was too hard to narrow down so I decided to go with a top 4 favorites list instead. Problem solved. But by all means, I encourage you to check out the site for yourself and browse their seemingly infinite array of hats. In the words of House Stark, “Winter is coming”, and you’d best be prepared.

November 6, 2014
The Knitty-Gritty

Photography by THEMANUC

Knit Crop Top by Kimchi Blue

Not all sweaters are created equally. Especially knit crop tops, which happen to be one of my favorite pieces this fall. I love their cozy appeal that can really make an outfit so casual chic. There are so many ways to wear it but this look is perfect for lazy Sunday’s or the local farmer’s market. The weather in L.A. has been so beautiful lately and my knit crop top has been my go-to for the brisk, sunny days.

November 4, 2014