Tag: dezistyle

Château de Versailles

Photography by Richie Chance

Jacket by Bebe | Jeans by Sneak Peek | Purse by Rebecca Minkoff | Necklace by Blush and Blue

Opulence is an understatement when it comes to Versailles. No expense was spared to build this incredible chateau…and it shows. Each crevice was intricately designed with detail and luxury as the pinnacle of utmost importance. Versailles has been listed as a world UNESCO site for some time and rightfully so. This incredible palace is one of the most famous and integral parts of 18th century French art and history.

October 3, 2014
6 Reasons to Love Lemons + DIY Scrub
When it comes to fruit, lemons seem to get a bad rap. Although they may not be a favorite for fruit salads or candy flavors, lemons are a staple on my weekly shopping list for a very good reason. Once I discovered just how many health and household benefits it provides, they quickly became a prized item for me. There are several good uses for lemon but these six are my most frequently utilized ones.

1. Lemon juice is a natural beauty enhancer. Spot treating acne with some lemon on a Q-Tip is a widely known trick for combating zits by helping it to kill bacteria and dry up the oils causing the breakout. And, just as good as it is to use topically, its extremely healthy to incorporate it into your diet to help combat weight gain, control high blood pressure, give hair and skin a vibrant glow and can fade scars or dark spots. You can also use lemon to alleviate the effects of sunburn. Since I incorporated lemon juice into my diet each day, I’ve seen a dramatic difference in my skin. I don’t break out as much and there is a noticeable glow. Try replacing your morning coffee with a cup of hot water, fresh lemon and honey. Not only will you get a kick of vitamin-C, but it tastes great and will hydrate your skin.

2. The 60 second tooth whitener. Lemon is a powerful cleanser and with just a smidge of baking soda and a squirt of lemon juice, you’ve got your own homemade remedy for coffee stained teeth. Alternatively, you can squeeze a drop of lemon onto your toothpaste before you brush. As a side note, lemon juice is extremely acidic so be aware of any burning or sensitivity and be sure not to brush for more than a minute or so! Lemon also stops gum bleeding & fights halitosis –AKA stinky breath. Here’s a tip: when on a date, always order a slice of lemon in your water and when the meal is over, take a healthy little suckle on it. It will work better and quicker to clean and deodorize your breath than any stick of gum would!

3. Nutritious & delicious! There are a ton of health benefits to drinking lemon but the most important ones to me are the incredible source of nutritious components inside (vitamin C, vitamin B, proteins and carbohydrates), it’s powerful flu fighting properties, it’s ability to flush toxins from the body, prevent diabetes and aid in digestion. As mentioned, I love juicing a fresh lemon in the morning and adding it to fresh brewed tea with local honey, which happens to also be good for allergies or sore throats. Or, try adding lemons and fresh mint to a jug of cool water for a revitalizing, healthy beverage – *vodka optional.

4. All natural hair-apy. For those that suffer from dry scalp and dandruff, lemon oil has been shown to reduce or eliminate the symptoms associated with this frustrating issue. You can try making your own concoction using a bit of coconut oil, lemon juice, and honey. Subsequently, when I was a kid there was a product called Sun In, anyone remember it? Well, you can basically garner the same effects of natural highlights by streaking lemon juice in your hair and laying out in the sun for some time. It was a weekend ritual for us girls, especially during the summer months, so I can vouch for it’s golden aftermath.

5. Safe & non-toxic cleanser. Not only is lemon juice great for cleaning out toxins and bacteria in your body, but it’s a powerful substitute for all those chemical-filled household products. Use lemon juice to clean grout, stains, rust, or those grimy cutting boards. I always toss my used lemon peels in the garbage disposal to help keep it clean and make the kitchen smell extra fresh!

6. Make a sugar scrub!

This is probably the most fun use of lemon. Make a scrub that you can use all over your body and face! You’d pay a pretty penny to have an all organic scrub like this at any spa, so why not pamper yourself a little. You can use the same scrub to remove callouses, moisturize skin, cleanse your face, use as a lip scrub or even slather it on some sliced apples for dessert because, it’s all natural! All you need is four simple ingredients to complete your sugar scrub recipe: lemon, brown sugar, coconut oil and honey. Of course there are a ton of other recipes you can try (and I recommend you do), but these four are the most important when making a proper scrub for all-over body use.

As I mentioned earlier, lemon cleanses, lightens scars or sun spots, brightens complexion and tightens pores. The brown sugar acts as a gentle scrub to help slough off dead skin and contains a natural source of glycolic acid, helping to rid your skin of bacteria all while costing much less than your local microdermabrasion clinic. Please note that although any sugar can work for this recipe, I chose brown sugar because the crystals tend to be much smaller and more gentle on your skin, especially the face. If you haven’t tried coconut oil in a scrub yet, here’s a couple reasons why you should. Coconut oil contains vitamin E, leaving skin moisturized and protected. It is also rich in useful proteins which helps the skin to repair and heal, as well as act as an anti-aging formula. One last merit for coconut oil is that it doesn’t go rancid for a very long time so it should preserve your yummy concoctions until you’ve finished using them. (Tip: Look for organic cold pressed, unrefined, chemical free coconut oil. This is the healthiest.) Last but certainly not least is the honey. Honey is not only a delicious distraction while making your scrub but it has been widely known to be an anti-fungal, specifically to acne-prone skin. This nectar of the gods is also a natural humectant, keeping moisture locked into the skin and giving you a glowing, hydrated complexion.

Now that you have the ingredients, let’s talk about preparing it! You may very well use your own discretion to eyeball out the amount you’d prefer to make a scrub suited to your preference but here’s a guideline for your convenience. Mix these all together very well until you get the consistency you’re looking for and voila! It takes no time and you’ve got yourself a top notch skin care product. This recipe is just right for me but feel free to go heavier or lighter on each ingredient if you wish for a silkier or more abrasive scrub. Enjoy!
- 1/2 Fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp organic local honey
Photography by Desirée Anderson
October 1, 2014
Travel Diary: Belvedere San Costabile

Belvedere San Costabile, Italy

Photography by Desirée Chance & Richie Chance

Necklace by DeziBijou | Sunglasses by Dolce & Gabbana | Skirt by F21

Belvedere San Costabile lay a short distance away from the beautiful little beach town of Santa Maria where we shot the American Apparel bikini post. I was curious to see the coastline from the tippy-top and 3o minutes later my wish was a reality. There was an overwhelming calmness all around. The pictures almost seem to capture the serenity that blanketed the castle walls and corridors. The sound of birds and occasional whisper of wind through the trees was the only thing that could be heard. I wandered up and down the small, empty cobblestoned pathways that connected humble homes with churches and randomly placed restaurants, only to feel like I was the only person left in the world. It was a feeling of peace that I had been longing for since my rendezvous with the bustling Venice canals just days before.

September 29, 2014
American Girl in Italy

Photography by Richie Chance

Bathing Suit by American Apparel

One of my favorite parts about Italy was the time spent beach side in Santa Maria. After the Amalfi Coast it was nice to spend some time at a beach with only a handful of locals and a little beach bungalow pumping jazz music. The water was crystal clear, displaying the sea life like a placid glass case. With perfectly hot weather in store it was the ideal afternoon for doing nothing more than lounging around in a bikini. I picked up this one at American Apparel just before I left on my trip. I love, love, love pieces like this because I like to have multifunctional clothing, especially when traveling.

Although this suit is most definitely made for the water, it’s super cute to wear with a skirt (high waisted pencil or skater) or pair with denim shorts. I bought the same suit in black and found it works really well as a sexy top at night. Side boob, anyone? Anyways, American Apparel always has a few great pieces like this one that are simple to dress up or down so if you’re ever in the market for something classic and understated, might I recommend you take a peek at what they have in store. And most definitely check out Santa Maria di Castellabate should you find yourself driving the coast of Italy in search of a sleepy little beach town.

September 26, 2014
Amalfi Coast: Castles in the Sky

Photography by Richie Chance & Desirée Anderson

Dress by GUESS

After driving countless kilometers from the north of Italy, the Amalfi Coast was a sensational sight to see. The anticipation of the journey there was well worth it though. I remember driving uphill for an extraordinary distance when, all of a sudden, the mountains parted just enough to see a sliver of what seemed like endless blue sky. At first glance, it looked like the earth had just melted away into an infinite abyss of sapphire haze. I had to rub my eyes to make sure they weren’t playing tricks on me. The sky and vast sea had blended into one, with no distinguishable seam. It’s at that moment, you realize just how high up you really are.

Colorful structures dot the cliffs aside the lemon trees and voluptuous vineyards that cloak the hillsides, creating a beautiful kaleidoscopic effect as you gaze down the coastline ahead. The roads writher around narrow bends like a mischievous snake, each turn quickening your heart rate with expectations of an impending head on collision with a motorbike or double-decker tour bus, but it didn’t matter. It’s a drive that is undoubtably one of the top scenic routes in the world but has also been proven to cause panic attacks amongst people. Something about it all seemed like magic to me. It felt rich with culture, like each little piece was a relic of history. I can honestly say it’s unlike any sight I’ve ever seen.

Spending the evening by the water in Positano was quite magical. As twilight approached I walked the shore made up of smooth pebbles as the tide gently rolled in and out. The night air was still and one by one all the lights from the homes and restaurants began to twinkle across the mountains. It was hard not to feel like a princess in my flowing dress as I sauntered down the cobblestone roads. I could now see why novels had been written about such an enchanting place.

September 24, 2014
Luxembourg Garden

Photography by Richie Chance

Watch & Bracelet by Michael Kors | Shoes by X2B | Gold Water

People always talk about visiting Paris in the spring time but I’m here to let you in on a little secret: Paris is even better in September. The Luxembourg Garden is an exquisite place to visit if you find yourself in Paris. In September the crowds of tourists have drastically died down and you tend to find yourself more likely amongst the locals reading books, practicing tai chi or jogging through the park. The grassy area that sits at the back end of the lawn serves as an ideal place to set up a picnic or lay under the trees. With over a hundred statues, a café, children sailing boats in the pond, the sprawling flower beds and cozy benches scattered about the garden, there’s something for everyone in need of a tranquil afternoon.

With no set plans, I roamed the garden for a couple of hours and really tried to take it all in. It was a unique experience for such a large, bustling city and I was glad to have finally had the chance to see it. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for such a leisurely stroll through the orchard. The beaming sun was sporadically interrupted by cool breezes, making this jumper the perfect outfit for such a day. Unfortunately this particular one is no longer available but ASOS has an incredible array of jumpers and rompers to choose from that I most definitely recommend you check out. I’m stocking up for fall since they are just so easy to slip on and go!

September 22, 2014
J’aime Paris

Photography by Richie Chance

Top by Forever 21| Skirt by Arden B.| Hat by H&M| Blanket by SandCloud

Paris is for lovers. Everything about this city defines the word. From the cafes to architecture, history, fashion and bustling streets dotted with high end shops, Paris is filled with poetic inspiration. Can anything possibly top an afternoon spent under the Eiffle Tower with someone you love, indulging in cheese and wine? I can’t think of many things at all!

The thing about Paris, according to my native friend, is that Parisians tend to stick to blacks, navy blues, a particular type of red and not much else. They kind of have a muted sophistication when it comes to fashion. It’s as though they dress in the same monochromatic tones I tend to think of when I envision what the city must’ve looked like many years ago in old black and white photos. Of course these traditional traits are always being tested by non-Parisians and eccentrics alike but it’s a surefire way to stick out. I’m quite sure I did, as my bare midriff caught plenty of stares (and a few scoffs) as I walked down the Champs-Élysées and made my way to the Eiffle Tower. But, I’ve never been one to pay any mind to unadventurous dressers…hey, at least I tried to coordinate my colors.

So, with day turning into twilight and romance floating through the air, my handsome fiancé decided to re-propose. He’s even more of a hopeless romantic than I am. He always promised that he would propose multiple times in multiple places for the rest of our lives and I’m not one to complain. What a smush. Le sigh- one more reason to love this city… J’aime Paris. xx

September 19, 2014
Daisy Dukes

Photography by Dreamstate Photos

Top by Daytrip/ Shorts by dVb/Bralette by Victoria’s Secret/Hat by Target

I’d be lying if I said that denim fabrics and color schemes haven’t played a starring role in my summer wardrobe this year, and it doesn’t seem to be changing anytime soon. Although it’s true that only a mere five days of summer technically exists, I don’t see why that should deter me from wearing my favorite shades of blue. Yes, these tones are naturally more acceptable in the spring and summer months but then again, I’m a Cali girl and my gut instinct tells me those rules just don’t apply the same to us So-Calian’s and this week’s brutal heat wave seems to prove my theory accurate.

So, with my plan of chasing summer in full effect, I did something that I used to not ever dare to do: mix denims. Something about it used to strike me as taboo but the more I do it, the more I am liking it. This year’s styles have boldly combined all sorts of wild prints, colors and patterns, making my foray into denim blends elementary in comparison. I usually like to add a pop of color so as not to wash out my outfit with too many of the same tones. This long line bra by Victoria’s Secret worked out quite nicely as an undershirt, with just enough of the lacy canary yellow peeking through for a subtle sexiness, perfect for a breezy afternoon spent wandering the Venice canals.

September 17, 2014
Copenhagen: Day 1

Photography by Richie Chance

Bodysuit by American Apparel/Skirt by Liz Claiborn/ Shoes by Steve Madden

It wasn’t until my arrival into Copenhagen that I truly understood what they meant when they said that it’s the happiest nation in the world. I’ve never seen a city with so many people with an overall pleasant demeanor. Even upon arriving into a café where the bar manager was closing down shop after a long day at work, his reply to my inquiry about his day was simply, “Isn’t every day a great day?” I suppose I shouldn’t be so surprised to hear such a comment, after all, most of us are alive and well. Shouldn’t that be enough? It was a great reminder to enjoy each moment and be thankful for our time on this planet.

I was extremely intrigued to see the city and the famous little strip called Nyhavn. Despite Copenhagen’s big city appeal, I was enveloped by an overwhelming sense of tranquility. There were none of the usual sounds I was used to back in L.A.—the sirens, the honking, the circling helicopters. The air smelt clean and each stride I took made me fall more in love with this little piece of heaven.

For once, my blond hair didn’t make me stand out like a sore thumb. Everywhere I looked there were tall, beautiful blondes, most riding bikes to and from work but dressed to the nines nonetheless. I couldn’t have felt more at home.

Unfortunately Copenhagen was the only city in Denmark I visited on this trip but needless to say, I’ll be returning for more in the future. Happiest nation on earth? I believe so.

September 15, 2014
Denim Days

Photography by Jenny Park

One of my favorite things about denim is its versatility. You can wear it in warmer or cooler weather, dress it up or down and unlike many other pieces in my closet, it’s appropriate for any time of the year. It’s easy to mix and match with basically anything you wish, which makes it a staple in my week to week wardrobe. More importantly, it has never gone out of style, remaining timeless since it’s inception.

At times, it’s difficult for me to find jeans that fit my body type the way I prefer. I have long, lean legs with a smaller waist and apparently I inherited my backside from the Trini part of my family…thanks, mom. The girls who fit a similar description know the trials of finding a brand that encompasses each aspect of our figure, that’s why I love, yes love, O2 Denim. I’ve yet to be disappointed by either the cut or the designs.

I wanted to pull a few of their latest styles and really try to keep it minimalistic so as to only focus on the denim itself. With options like high-rise, classic, skinny, low rise and boyfriend jeans, the possibilities are open to your own preferences. Aside from acid wash, which I am more than slightly obsessed with this season, I am really digging pigmented jeans. As you know by now, I am a big fan of multifunctional pieces. With fall just around the corner, I chose these red ones that can really be paired with just about anything if you ask me. For those still holding on to the last days of summer you can easily add a cute denim button down as I did or wear them as a pop of color in the more mundane scheme of fall apparel.

There are a ton of styles not shown in this blog, so I highly recommend checking out their online store. Happy hunting!

www.O2denim.com

September 12, 2014
Keva J Swimwear

Photography by Dreamstate Photos

Happy ‘Hump Day’ my loves! I’m writing this post as I sit here in my girlfriend’s flat in Paris watching the sky turn pink and purple over the city of lights. French jazz is floating through the air as my lovely friend cooks something fragrantly delicious in the kitchen. The only thing that could possibly make me miss home in a moment like this is looking back at this shoot I did with Keva J Swimwear and Dreamstate Photos in Venice Beach just before I left on this incredible journey.

I appreciate a swim line that makes the female physique a priority when designing and Keva J does just that. They’re also not afraid to experiment with unique cuts and patterns. With so many swimwear options in the market, there’s no need to settle on a brand that doesn’t fit your frame, your preference or your budget.

Keva J has been known to create some pretty cool collections recently. My favorite suit is this strappy black high rise two piece. I love the sophisticated cut that hugs all the right places but also gives away just enough to be classy as well as sexy. I’m not usually one to opt for a tube top bathing suit since I prefer some additional assistance in the mammary department, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover this piece offered more support than most. The best part is that her bikinis are affordable. There’s just something about a good deal, isn’t there? I can’t wait to see what she comes out with next!

September 10, 2014
Los Olivos: Suburban Girl

Photography by Richie Chance

Lace Top by Charlette Russe// Overall Dress by Banana Republic// White top by Piko 1988// Denim Bellbottoms by BDG// Sandals by Unisa// White Crossbody Purse by Forever 21//Pink Skirt by Bebe// White Tank by Planet Gold// Denim Buttondown by Beulah// Silver Pumps by Shoe Dazzle// Hat by Target// Gold Bodysuit by American Apparel// Red Leather Jacket by Cripple Creek// Red Print Dress by Angie// Black Booties by Lola Shoetique

Solvang has always held a special place in my heart. Since I was a kid, I would spend time there each summer visiting the family ranch and riding horses. I would long for the time of the year when I returned to my favorite breakfast spots and could run amuck with my cousins.

It wasn’t until my last birthday that Richie surprised me with a trip to a neighboring town called Los Olivos. Surprised to have not heard much about this quaint little area, I was excited to explore it. Despite it being January, the weather was beautiful and we spent much of the time moseying around and doing wine tastings, which they are most commonly known for. I fell in love with the town, which I admittedly seem to do quite often when I travel. My weekend getaway filled me with happiness but I felt the need to come back again when it was spring and the local farmers would have just picked their first crops of the season. As if the universe had answered some unspoken prayer, I met two brothers (Poul & Tom) in a funky little artsy wine bar who just so happened to be the most popular farmers in town. Each May they host a garlic festival in their own backyard, conveniently located across the street from said wine bar. They bring in fresh produce straight from the farm, including about 20 different varieties of garlic and host a huge shindig with live music and tons of free food, heavily laced with garlic of course. Mmm, mmm! I had no idea there were so many kinds of garlic (approximately 600)! Needless to say, it didn’t take much convincing from them to return for the festival…okay, it took no convincing whatsoever.

Fast forward to May and there I was, back in Los Olivos as I had promised the brothers months before and boy, do they know how to throw a party! I had decided to use this trip to capture the scenic landscapes and shoot my new threads. How could I resist? After filling up on way too much food, I set out to roam the town for the perfect backdrop. It wasn’t hard. Every corner garnered a unique and charming appeal. If you ever get the chance, I recommend visiting for a few laid back days in this hidden gem.

*To find out when the next festival is, send Poul a message here. You can also purchase Tom’s famous ghost pepper salsa by visiting www.uncletomssalsa.com

September 8, 2014
White After Labor Day {Gasp!}

Photography by Richie Chance

Top, Skirt, Necklace & Beanie by Forever 21

Shoes by Lola Shoetique

This past week I began packing for my trip abroad. As I collected my favorite pieces, the old phrase, “You can’t wear white after Labor Day” popped in my head. With the recent holiday just behind us, I started to question this old adage. Why? Why is it so wrong to wear one of my favorite colors merely because of the passing of another day in the year? In modern times we associate it as a marker in time, signifying the end of summer. I wondered where this tradition came from and did a little research. I figured it must have originated in the colder climates that get snow. Aside from that, there’s just something that seems comforting and natural about wearing darker colors in the fall and winter months but that still did not satisfy my curiosity.

With a few clicks on the ole’ google machine I was surprised to read that the reason behind it stemmed from affluent women in the early 1900’s who, in order to separate themselves from those less fortunate than they, formulated styles for different seasons that subsequently changed societal standards from then on. Catty, eh? Well, not much has changed and even to this day there’s a stigma attached to donning white threads after Labor Day. I, however, chose not to conform–per usual. Although I truly do appreciate the change of season and the fashion that comes along with it, I also believe that fashion is art and should be defined by the wearer, not society. Plus, there’s always a little wiggle room to pacify the sticklers.

As Californians, we’re lucky to have a bit more leeway in the fashion realm. We get nearly perfect weather everyday of the year, even when it cools down it’s nothing we can really complain about. Since September is known to be incredibly warm, I decided to accessorize my new taupe skirt with some white peep toe booties and a highlighter neon beanie, which has gotten way too many compliments for the price tag. I think the key to wearing white during those few taboo months is to either go big (ALL white!) or very minimal and perhaps opt for heavier fabrics like cashmere. Hence my decision to add just a pop of white amongst other neutral shades and the bright yellow to counter any chance of getting lost in the crowd, obviously.

At the end of the day I think the most important thing to remember is that who you are defines what you wear, not the other way around. Dress in whatever it is that makes you happy because confidence is sexier than any garment you could ever wear.

“Women think of all colors except the absence of color. I have said that black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute. It is the perfect harmony.”

-Coco Chanel

September 5, 2014
If The Shoe Fits

Photography by Richie Chance

Top by lucyparis

Shoes by Charles Jourdan

Hat by Aldo

Sunglasses by Tom Ford

Tote Bag by Michael Kors “Hamilton”

Small cross body purse by Forever 21

Watch by Michael Kors

Charles Jourdan makes my feet feel as regal as the name sounds. With Autumn approaching, I bought these strappy babies to go with anything from dresses to boyfriend jeans and everything in between. I love the sleek look and the white on black makes it wearable during the day or night. Score!!

And then there’s my beloved Michael Kors “Hamilton” bucket purse. My mom actually got this one for me as a birthday gift and I was a little unsure of its ostentatious appeal at first but it’s grown to be one of my favorite bags. It fits everything, including plenty of snacks and candy when heading to movie theater! (Very important when prospecting a new bag)

I picked up the smaller cross body purse before a trip where I didn’t want to take anything too expensive along and it has been worth every penny it cost me – 1,480 pennies to be exact. I just keep it in my larger MK bag and whenever I need to run into the store or just don’t feel it’s necessary to carry such a big bag, I’ve got options. A girl’s always got to have options. What can I say, I like to be prepared for all occasions. And yes, I have a trunk full of outfit changes and beach accoutrements in the trunk of my car…because you never know when you might be driving home and spontaneously want to go rollerblading in your bikini on the strand! Like I said, options. 😉

September 3, 2014
Travel Tips: 9 Ways to Make Life Easier

In honor of my upcoming trip to Europe on Tuesday, I wanted to share some of my top travel tips for preparing and packing. Over the years I’ve learned to whittle it down into something easy and manageable to handle when the daunting task comes up. Everything about travel is exciting but I’d say packing for a trip is just a notch above the unpacking part. So, I’ve devised a plan for your convenience (and mine) to help alleviate some of that pressure. And please, feel free to comment below with some of your travel tips, tricks, life hacks or suggestions below. I’m always happy to add another skill set to my repertoire.

1) Pick luggage that doesn’t complicate your life.

So, the first thing to consider when traveling abroad is what you’re going to be carrying everything in. Depending on what kind of trip you’re doing you might only be taking a backpack along, which I’ve done on multiple occasions, but in this case, let’s assume you are planning on taking a suitcase. Ever since some genius finally decided to put 4 wheels instead of 2 on suitcases it’s made traveling SO much easier. I definitely recommend buying one with four 360 degree wheels, dubbed ‘spinners’, if you are in the market for new travel ware. They’re becoming standard in all the newer suitcases being made these days. I know there are designer suitcases out there, and some of them are gorgeous, but for this trip I just wanted something I could lug along and not worry about scuffing up when bouncing around from city to city catching planes, trains and automobiles. And would you believe it, Costco had just what I was looking for. Lightweight, durable polycarbonate suitcases that come with a smaller matching jr. suitcase for only $130. Also, they are cat approved- just ask my two fur babies.

2) Strategically pack your carry-on

Packing your carry-on can be just as important, if not more important, than packing your main suitcase. I think of my carry-on as my survival bag. When you’ve been stuck for days in a foreign country with nothing but the clothes on your back and the random array of personal items stashed away in your purse, you learn very quickly how necessary it is to pack key essentials in your carry-on. Generally if the airline loses your bag, the daily allowance they reimburse you still does not cover the bare minimum you’d require to replace the missing articles needed, so it’s better to be prepared. Just keep in mind that some airlines have more strict rules than others about the size of your carry-on so always check ahead of time and remember not to fill it up too much in case your suitcase is overweight and you need to stuff some things in it. Overage fees are no joke and can be easily avoided by being vigilant. With that being said, here is a list of things I always take on board with me:

– At least one utility travel converter. I prefer ones that also have a USB plug-in.

– All chargers for phone, camera, travel speaker, etc. These can be expensive to replace, if at all.

– All my vitamins (pre-organized into daily packets) and medications, if necessary. I also like to stick some cough drops, gum, advil and a couple of my favorite tea packets in there too.

– A sweater & an extra pair of underwear (trust me, you’ll be thankful if your suitcase ever gets lost after a long international flight).

– A compact tote in the chance that you need an emergency bag for those spontaneous shopping sprees at the airport souvenir shops or if you feel like putting a few select items in it to have under the seat in front of you for easier access. I have a little drawstring pouch that’s smaller than the size of a donut when its folded up so it hardly uses any space at all.

– Travel sized toiletries: deodorant, anti-bacterial gel, moist face wipes, chapstick, lotion, toothbrush/toothpaste, eye drops, nail file and comb.

– My iPad, a good book and my ear buds

– Healthy snacks

– A pair of sunglasses/reading glasses and my eye mask.

– An external battery- because there’s nothing worse than dying electronics when you’re stuck on a plane.

3) Invest in a travel steamer

You’ve probably already heard that rolling your clothing helps to prevent wrinkles. And it does. Significantly. But, anyone who’s done it knows that some wrinkles are just kind of inevitable. Now before you freak out about taking a steamer along in your luggage, let me assure you that it’s been one of those items that I’m always so relieved to have brought. The travel sized one I purchased from Target for $30 has already flown around the world with me and will embark on this next journey without question. With this baby, I could literally fold my clothes into airplanes and it wouldn’t make one bit of a difference once I use my handy-dandy steamer. I actually use this when I’m at home instead of my bigger one since assembling and disassembling it is more time consuming.

4) Pack dual use items

It can be tricky but, I try my best to consolidate my clothing and pack articles that can be used for more than one thing. A great item that can be utilized in hot or cold weather is a light scarf. It can be worn as the obvious but also as a shawl, sarong, head wrap, impromptu belt or sometimes I use it on the plane in place of my eyemask. Other items might include leggings that can be dressed up at night or worn for exercising and exploring during the day. Finding things like these will cut down your packing list and give you more options when you don’t have the accessibility you have at home.

5) Don’t forget the little things that make your down time better

When the day is done and you finally make it back to your hotel room, there’s a couple small things that will make life a little more enjoyable and give you a touch of home. I always pack a portable speaker, a couple tealight candles, my robe and a wine opener. There’s nothing worse than getting back to your room to unwind with a nice bottle of wine only to discover there’s no way to pop the cork!

6) Bring carabiners!

This one may have caught you by surprise but I have found so many different uses for them throughout my travels. I’ve used carabiners to secure my sneakers to the outside of my backpack after trekking through mud, keeping keys or my camera attached to me/my bag, hanging grocery or shopping bags, attaching tarps, clipping zippers together to deter theft, keeping hair ties or jewelry together, or even tightening your pants (true story). I usually have a variety of sizes and randomly clip them to my luggage and bags.

7) Bring a drawstring laundry bag

Hopefully you get a chance to hit a laundromat while you’re on the road but in the meantime, all that dirty laundry has to go somewhere. I can’t stand the thought of it laying against my clean clothes so I bring a separate bag to house it all. Large Ziplocks can work as disposable ones or Target carries laundry bags for as little as $1.99 . Throw some dryer pads in there to mask any odors or just keep your suitcase smelling fresh.

8) Cover your shoes

If you think about where the bottom of your shoes have been you probably wouldn’t want them rubbing up against everything in your suitcase. For this reason, I put each pair of shoes into their own dust bags. As an alternative, you can buy shower caps from the Dollar Store or even use plastic grocery bags.

9) Take pictures of the belongings you’re bringing

Now I know this may sound completely paranoid and before my bag was stolen, I would’ve agreed. But, a lesson was learned and now I feel compelled to share it. If the unfortunate case should ever arise that your suitcase goes missing, the first thing baggage claim will want is an exact description of your bag. Sounds easy but try describing your suitcase out loud right now. Do you even know the brand name of your suitcase or it’s dimensions? You’d be surprised by how many people don’t have a clue. They’ll also want to know the contents in it. Again, it sounds easy but once you’re actually required to itemize each individual article to feign a chance at reimbursement it becomes quite a mission. Not only does it make your life easier but you also have picture evidence.

So there you have it, my top 9 tips for packing. More travel posts to come so be sure to subscribe. Now it’s time for me to pack my things and jet! First stop: Copenhagen!

September 1, 2014
Return of the Bodysuit

Photography by Richie Chance

Bodysuit by Glamour That

Hat by Aldo

Boots by Modern Vintage

Jacket by Better B.

There’s no denying that bodysuits are back in full effect. I’m not sure why they ever really disappeared after the 90’s but, needless to say, I’m glad they’re in circulation again. With so many shops carrying different styles now, I’ve admittedly stocked up on an array of them but my current favorite is this one by Glamour That.

The black and white pinstripe is me: casual chic. I can wear it so many ways, which always makes me value an article of clothing more. I can get creative and dress it up or down depending on where I’m going and how I’m feeling. I decided to shoot this suit in a way that would give you an honest perspective on the way it fits me and let you use your imagination on how you could accessorize this piece with a colorful pencil skirt or high-waisted skinny jeans…the options are endless. I personally wouldn’t wear this to the beach but I suppose there’s nothing wrong with it if you did. Lord knows I’ve seen too many old men in banana hammocks to be concerned with a bodysuit. 😉

I’d love to know where your favorite bodysuits are from. Leave me a comment below with their name and link so I can check them out!

xx

August 29, 2014
Hippie on Melrose

Photography by Richie Chance

Skirt by Foreign Exchange

Boots by Dolce Vita

Hat is vintage

Silver jewelry handmade in Mexico

Lipstick is “Enchanted” by Tarte Cosmetics

Hippie (n). – flower child, Bohemian, beatnik, long-hair, free spirit, nonconformist, dropout

Well, aside from the dropout part I’d say ‘hippie’ is a pretty accurate description of me. I’ve never been the type to conform to any one particular style or thing. I feel as though I’m ever-evolving.

Traveling has been the biggest contributor to my personal metamorphose. I’ve never been more humbled than when I backpacked through Thailand. My fiancé, Richie, and I trekked through the northern jungle of Chang Mai and spent the night in a bamboo hut with locals; singing, eating, drinking and laughing into the night…but that story is for another time. Throwback travel post perhaps?

What I was trying to say, is that I don’t care if anything about this is taboo! This ensemble makes me feel like I can kick ass and curtsy. I love wild patterns and metallics like these! If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you know I love wearing black, too. It’s timeless. I guess it speaks to my inner bohemian. But what can I say…tomorrow might be different. As for today, I’m in love & I want more of it. xx

August 27, 2014
New Kid on the Blog

So here it is! Finally! My blog. My precious. It’s been months in the making and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. To be honest, I couldn’t figure out how to launch it. I’ve been up to my elbows in articles about the who, what, where, when and why on launching a blog and the do’s and don’ts that come along with it. I thought about giveaways, throwing an event, parties, donating to my favorite charity…you name it. I just wanted it to be special without having to set off fireworks or fly a banner off the tail end of a plane, but nothing seemed right– it all felt “gimmicky”.

I remembered something a mentor of mine once said which was, “showing up is half the battle”. How true is that? What truly is important is the action of doing, creating and sharing. All else should fall into place, or so we hope. This blog is something I’ve talked about doing for a long time so I decided to throw it all out the window and just DO IT!

So what can you expect? Well, aside from my attempts at witty anecdotes, my goal is to share my tips, trips, secrets of the trade and all around lifestyle with you. I hope to teach you, help you, inspire you and motivate you just as much as I hope there is some reciprocal effect that takes place within myself as well. I’ve always loved writing, photography, fashion and travel so I couldn’t imagine doing anything that makes me happier to share.

Throughout the process of planning and developing DeziStyle I’ve challenged myself to create a site that captures more than just a photo, but encompasses the complete essence of who I am. As a newbie in the online blogging community it’s a little scary to jump into such a big pond of well established bloggers but that’s where you come in! With your support, the blog has so much potential to grow so please take a moment and subscribe for free by entering your email in the ‘Follow Me’ box on the homepage and share the link with friends!

Thank you for stopping by and sharing this journey with me! And please, feel free to leave me comments below on what articles you would like to see on DeziStyle! I’d love to hear your ideas for upcoming posts. 🙂

xo

Desirée

*A special thank you to Garrett Langford for designing the #DeziStyle logo and a very big thank you to Vin Suh for being so patient with me while creating the website and doing a such beautiful job.

August 25, 2014
Nectar

Photography by Amanda Gift & Scott Brinegar at Snaps Studio

Makeup by Nimai Marsden

Article featured in Elléments Magazine

Shooting this editorial for Elléments Magazine with Snaps Studio and makeup artist Nimai Marsden was such a fun and artistic day. I crave the opportunities to work with other like-minded, imaginative people who are just as enthusiastic as I am. It’s a breath of fresh air to be able to think outside the box and distance myself from the catalog routine for just a moment.

The idea was to incorporate honey, the nectar of the gods, with glam makeup. Nimai used soft browns, gold, coral and reds mostly from MAC cosmetics to create these stunning images. She also used both top and bottom lashes to create a more dramatic look.

It’s a good thing I like honey because I ingested more than I would’ve liked in order to experiment with some more outrageous shots (not pictured below). By the end of the day I was covered in honey -literally- from head to toe. I’m pretty sure this was the most delicious–and moisturizing photo shoot I’d ever done…thank goodness it wasn’t set in the woods! 😉

We are so proud of the outcome, I hope you enjoy the pics as much as we do!

August 22, 2014
5 Fab Bikinis by Montce Swim

Photography by Brock Marshal

Styled by Colleen Cooper

Swimsuits by Montce Swim

Location: South Beach, Miami

Miami is the best place to go when you’re in search of the perfect bikini and fun places to wear them. I spent many years of my life in South Beach and much of it was spent in a bikini. In some places, it’s all that you’re required to wear.

I was first introduced to Montce Swimwear through my photographer and friend, Brock Marshal, while shooting in Miami Beach. It was love at first sight. I can appreciate a well cut, sexy cinched bottom and Montce was that and so much more. I tend to go for a Brazilian style because of the design that so seductively hugs all the right places, accentuating the feminine physique. And, since I’m petite, I need a top that will help ‘the girls’ look full without having to wear an uncomfortable push-up bikini. Of course its not necessary, but that’s never really the point, is it? I want to feel confident and sexy in my bikini and that’s exactly how Montce designs make me feel. The best part is that I can completely customize the kind of suit I want and have it tailored to fit my body.

These are some of my favorite bikinis from the collection but there are so many more amazing prints and patterns available. Check out Montce if you’re in the market for a new bathing suit, I promise you won’t regret it.

August 20, 2014

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