Music Monday: Lady Gaga

Now I'm not really a lady gaga fan. I liked her music when she first came out ( songs like Poker Face, Paparazzi, and Telephone) but some of her new music just isn't my favorite.

Lately, I've been hearing this song on the radio and I didn't even know it was her. I love that this song sounds NOTHING like any of her other songs. It is a mix of country and rock. The lyrics of the song and the way it is arranged is amazing. This song is one of my new favorite songs, it really showcases Lady Gaga's vocal ability.

Lady Gaga - You And I

The video is a little weird but hey....that's Gaga lol.

What do you think about the song?

Ashley

xoxo

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DIY Deep Conditioner

Style Influence: Estelle

Music Monday: Rihanna Birthday Cake

DIY Deep Conditioner

What You'll Need (although all of these ingrediants are optional and the amount depends on your hair type and personal prefernece.

• Coconut Oil (a couple spoonfuls)
• Honey (about 2 table spoons)
• Avocado (half of one)
• Your own conditioner (I used a little Herbal Essence Hello Hydration Conditioner and Organix Coconut Oil Conditioner. Use As much as desired.)

For those who may be wondering why I used these certain products, I will break down their benefits for your hair

• Coconut Oil is one of the few oils that can actually penetrate your hair shaft. It is able to keep hair moisturized, reduce dandruff and helps prevent breakage. I've heard a lot of girls on youtube say it helps with hair growth as well.
• Honey adds shine to your hair and locks in moisture.
• Avocados are high in vitamins like omega 3 and omega 9 which are critical hair cell growth. It also protects hair from harsher climates (Especially ones like the winter).

I know the picture looks a little nasty lol...it is the avocado that gives it that green look. This mixture would probably be great for your skin as well (minus the conditioner).

Since this conditioner is a DIY, you can leave it on your hair as long as you want. 5 minutes, 30 minutes or an hour. I think you should just make sure the mixture doesn't dry out while it is on your head. To get a better use of this, you should sit under a hooded dryer with a plastic cap.

This made my hair feel really soft after I rinsed it out. Next time, I would use a hand mixer to get all of the lumps and clumps out.

What conditioners do you use?

Ashley

xoxo

Also Check Out

Style Influence: Estelle

Music Monday: Rihanna Birthday Cake

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Intense Moisturizing Treatment Review

Style Influence: Estelle

Over the past few years, I've noticed Estelle sitting front row at a lot of major fashion shows. After noticing that, I started to notice that she has a pretty good sense of style. I love that she wears tones and colors that compliment her skin tone. Estelle is not afraid to play with different colors, textures, and patterns. You can tell her style is a mix of daring and classic.

I love the outfit from the ankles up lol. I dont like the look of these boots with the jumper. I think it would be really cute if she wore a nice stiletto or a wedge. But hey...to each her own...

photos from concreteloop.com and yahoo images

What do you think about Estelle's style?

Ashley

xoxo

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Music Monday: Rihanna Birthday Cake

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Intense Moisturizing Treatment Review

New Love: Chai Tea

Music Monday: Rihanna Birthday Cake

Now this song is for those who are 18+

Rihanna's new album released a couple weeks ago and I love almost every song on the album, especially this one. I'm kinda disappointed that it is only 1 minute and 22 seconds long :-( . This song deserves to be longer, hopefully she will release a longer version sometime soon.

This song is very risque and daring, and that's what I love about Rihanna.

Sit back and enjoy these 82 seconds lol

Rihanna - Birthday Cake

Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Intense Moisturizing Treatment Review

I've been using this product for about 3 months now (and roughly 5-7 applications). I wanted to give you guys a thorough review of this product.

Organix' website claims it:

"Renew your hair's inner health with Argan oil nutrients, antioxidants, and Vitamin E. Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment is a deep conditioning, exotic formula to add brilliant shine and create lush softness without leaving any heavy residue which can weigh hair down."

The front of the packing states:

"A unique, precious blend of Moroccan Argan Oil which instantly penetrates the hair shaft restoring shine and softness while strengthening and creating soft, seductive, silky perfection."

I will first state if these claims were correct or incorrect, from my experience.

• Brilliant shine? Well my hair is naturally shiny because of all the oils I use in my hair and my natural oils so I cannot confirm if this is true or not. At least it did not take shine from my hair so this one is neutral.
• I noticed my hair was softer after using but not a dramatic difference in the softness.
• This deep conditioner did not leave any residue in my hair ( and I use a lot of the product) and it did not weigh my hair down at all.
• I cannot say whether it penetrates the hair shaft or not, I have no way of knowing this.

How to use this product:

Scoop a small amount into palm and evenly distribute with a wide tooth comb from your roots to your tips. Leave treatment in for 3-5 minutes. Product performance is enhanced by placing cap over hair and wrapping cap with a hot wet towel. Rinse with mild to cool water.

I used a little more product than a small scoop because I have a thicker texture of hair. I'm sure if your hair is more silky or a thinner texture you will only need to use a scoop.

Pros:

• It is easily accessible. You can find it at just about any drugstore, beauty supply store, website, or store that sells hair care products.
• The smell. It has a strong cologne smell (that I happen to like). It smells somewhat like a man's cologne. The smell does not linger but you can smell it when you are applying it. I thought this could be the smell of the "argan oil" in it but in the ingredients list, it states there is parfum ( I guess that could be a negative).
• Its extremely creamy. It sticks to my hair well and is pretty easy to apply.
• This product is sulfate-free (well actually all Organix products are sulfate free)
• When I am applying it to my hair with my hands i notice my hands feel smoother and silkier.
• I like that the packaging is nice, it makes it seem like you are using a luxurious product (in my opinion).

Cons

• I dont feel like it bettered my hair in any way. It seems almost as if I didn't use a deep conditioner. This could all just be my experience or me expecting a dramatic change but I think after using a product for 3 months, I should be able to notice a change. :-(
• It is a little on the pricey side for my budget. It costs around $8 but I picked it up when Ulta was having a BOGO deal. If you are interested in this product you should definitely check out when Ulta, Walgreens, or CVS is having a BOGO deal, I notice them every now and then. I think there are cheaper deep conditioners that can do the same thing if not more.
• Argan Oil is towards the bottom of the ingredients list and so is jojoba. Since this is a "Moroccan Argan Oil" I wish it contained more Argan Oil.
• I dont notice a silkier or softer texture in my hair.

Overall Review:

I give this product 2.5/5

I think there are better deep conditioning products than this. I personally did not notice a difference or a stronger feeling in my hair.

This doesn't mean I hate Organix, I just don't like this product. I do love their Coconut Oil Conditioner and I think I would probably use that as a deep conditioner instead of this. I plan on doing a review on that product soon so be on the look out for that.

Would I purchase this again? - No

Would I recommend this?- I would say no unless someone is really adamant about trying this then go ahead.

Have you tried this deep conditioner or any products from Organix? What is your favorite deep conditioner so I can try it out?

Ashley

xoxo

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New Love: Chai Tea

Ulta Haul

New Love: Mimosa

New Love: Chai Tea

About a month ago, I saw Benji, itsjudytime's husband, do a video on Chai Tea. I've never had chai tea and he made it look really tasty. You can watch the video below.

While I was at the grocery store, I wanted to go down the tea/coffee aisle to try out Chai Tea. Although the one I picked out has artificial flavors and isnt authentic chai tea, it still turned out yummy. One day (if I get all the ingredients), I want to try out his recipe.

I decided to pick up the Bigelow Vanilla Chai Tea. I think if you love tea or want to try a new tea, you should try this because it was relatively cheap.

You really have to pay attention to the directions when it comes to adding the milk, make sure you dont put to much or you will get more of a milk taste instead of a tea taste. I dont really like hot drinks so I decided to put the tea on ice.

The spices in this tea are very potent so if you have a sensitive nose, this may not be the tea for you. If you do love the smell of different spices, you will love this because it will literally make the whole kitchen (and in my case, family room as well) smell like chai tea.

What are some drinks you are liking right now?

Ashley

xoxo

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Music Monday: Beyonce Live @ Roseland

Ulta Haul

New Love: Mimosa

How to Shop Black Friday

I've been shopping on black friday a for the last few years. Although I've never spent big money or rushed early to stores, I've learned a few things about shopping on Black Friday. Below are a few tips to make the process easier...

1. Make a list of things you want and need...for yourself and presents for others.
2. Check the store's ads and their online deals. Sometimes stores may have separate deals for people who want to purchase something online instead of going into a store.
3. If or when you do find something you really want, search around to see if another store or website has it for a cheaper price. You can also see if a store offers a gift card with a purchase. For instance, I've seen a few ads where two different stores have an ipod touch on sale for the same price but one store may offer a gift card with the purchase. Look for things like that.
4. For hot commodity items (like TVs, laptops, tablets, furniture) make sure to get to the store super early (this year, maybe 1am or earlier...yikes).
5. Make sure you map out where you want to go and the times that certain stores open. It also helps having someone with you so they can go to one store while you are in another.
6. When buying electronics, already make up your mind if you want the store's extended warranty or protection. They are going to try to sell it to you and you need to already have made up your mind if you want it or not. Dont let them manipulate you into something...unless you want it...
7. Be prepared for the madness. this is the hardest part for me lol. People will act frantic and crazy over hot ticket products or the last of a product.
8. Always check out a store's return policy or warranty on the item. Sometimes its not worth buying something so cheap and it ends up breaking and you cant return it.
9. Save some money for Cyber Monday

This year, just like every other year, I dont plan on getting that much. I know i need a new set of sheets so I may get that from wal-mart or target. I also plan on getting Just Dance 3, I want to see who has it for the cheapest price. I need to get a few make-up things for Christmas, maybe from Ulta....but thats about it. Pretty boring.

Here are a few websites that show what stores are having what sales

http://www.blackfridayreport.com/

http://bfads.net/Ad/Best-Buy-2011

http://www.blackfridayads.com/

Do you plan on going shopping for black friday? What do you plan on purchasing?

Music Monday: Beyonce Live @ Roseland

I've heard a lot of Bey stans talking about this Live at Roseland performance being amazing. I like Beyonce's music but she isn't necessarily my favorite artist. When I saw this video, it made me like her even more. Her work ethic, personality, and the way she keeps her relationship with Jay-z private are things that made me love her from this video.

Beyonce - I was Here ( Live at Roseland)

The lyrics are very inspiring and spark something in me to "leave my mark" on this world.

Her vevo account is showing the whole DVD (Live at Roseland), which is an hour long performance including clips. It is supposed to be online for only 24 hours (so that will be until 11/21/2011 5pm EST) so hurry and watch it if you want to see it.

I love that she included clips from her private life.

What do you think about these videos?

Ashley

xoxo

Also check out some of my other Music Mondays

Music Monday: Adele

Music Monday: Katy Perry

Music Monday: Lupe Fiasco

Music Monday: Frank Ocean

Music Monday: J.Cole

Music Monday: Rihanna

Music Monday: Wale

Music Monday: Selena Gomez

Ulta Haul

I went to Ulta on Thursday and picked up a few things. I'm kinda mad because when I got back home there was an Ulta coupon in the mail and I didn't get a chance to use it. Oh well, I plan on going back during the holidays to get a few more things.

I saw this glitter and immediately thought of wearing it during the holidays or for New Years Eve. But when I got home and looked on the back, I saw it wasn't safe for the eye area. :-( I guess I'll find some way to use this.

NYX Glitter Mania in Disco Ball

I never really venture off into the body section of Ulta but I saw this for less than $5 and I had to pick it up. I put tried it on and it was pretty decent, the ginger is a little strong but it isnt too bad for the price.

Gorgeous Hands Hand Cream in Ginger Plumberry

I've always wanted to try the L'Oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray, although I rarely use hairspray lol. I'm sure I'll have it for a long time and I hope its worth the money.

I've been trying to expand my perfume collection and before I go out and spend money on a big bottle, I always look in the travel size section of Ulta. I saw there were almost hundreds of this smell so I decided to try it out. I liked the smell in the store and it still smells pretty good.

Love Struck by Vera Wang

What are some new things you purchased?

Ashley

xoxo

Also Check Out

New Love: Mimosa

How I would Style A Fur Vest

Music Monday: Selena Gomez

New Love: Mimosa

Lately, I've loved the taste of a mimosa. I'm not really a breakfast/brunch person but I love having one of these (actually at all times of the day lol). Usually with most cocktails or drinks you need a lot of ingredients, I love that this one only calls for two.

What You'll Need:

1. Orange Juice
2. Champagne or Sparkling Wine (or if you are under 21 or choose not to drink, use sparkling cider, sprite, or ginger ale)
3. Champagne Flute (I didn't have one so I used some random glass in the cabinet lol, I dont know if its a wine glass or what but whatever.... If you are serving it for guests then you'll probably want to get champagne flutes)
4. Garnish (Orange slice, Strawberry, or Cherry)

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This drink is better served cold so make sure your orange juice and champagne are cold. I usually fill the glass up almost to the top and then top it off with champagne but I think this recipe is all about personal preference. You can do half champagne and half orange juice or if you want to feel a little tipsy you can use more champagne than orange juice lol.

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After you top it off you can garnish it and that's it. Pretty simple.

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When I get to the bottom I like to put my orange slice in the drink. When the drink is gone you can eat the orange and it is extra juicy lol.

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This drink is pretty foolproof and makes you feel a little fancy lol. Try it out and tell me how you like it.

Have you ever had a mimosa? Whats your favorite drink (alcoholic or non alcoholic)?

Ashley

xoxo

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How I would Style A Fur Vest

Music Monday: Selena Gomez

Style Influence: Michelle Obama

How I Would Style A Fur Vest

Below are two ways I would style or wear a fur vest. I think when wearing fur vest you don't have to accessorize too much ( I mean unless you want to lol). I love pairing fur vest with bolder colors, especially since most fur vests come in neutral, bland colors like black or brown. The bottom outfit reminds me a lot of 70s style, or Rachel Zoe.

furvest by msashley407 featuring yellow gold earrings

furvest maxi dress by msashley407 featuring glitter heels

Remember style is personal and there are no REAL rules in fashion. Explore and experiment.

How would you style or wear a fur vest?

Ashley

xoxo

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Music Monday: Selena Gomez

Style Influence: Michelle Obama

Fall Trend: Fur Vests

Music Monday: Selena Gomez

Now I've never really been a huge Selena Gomez fan. I watched Wizards of Waverly Place sometimes (lol dont judge) and I think her puppy love relationship with JB is cute. When I heard this song on the radio I thought "omg who is this?". I instantly fell in love with the song and later found out it was Selena.

Now I know I'm probably the last one to catch on to the song and I just saw the video last week lol.

Love You Like A Love Song

The video is very cute, I love how she goes through the different time periods. And her big Diana Ross-ish hair is so gorgeous.

What do you think about this song?

Ashley

xoxo

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Style Influence: Michelle Obama

Music Monday: Wale

How I Would Style Fur Boots

Style Influence: Michelle Obama

Despite your political views, it is obvious that Michelle Obama has style. I think she is the most stylish first lady since Jackie O. Michelle seems to be very sophisticated with just a dash of sexy. I love that for upscale dinners and events she looks extravagant and when she is grocery shopping or walking the dog she looks laid back. Her style seems effortless. Although, the way Michelle dresses is not particularly something I would wear at the age of 22 but I could see as I get older and more mature taking some tips from her.

Michelle's style is simple, sophisticated, with a touch of fun. I love that she isnt afraid to wear prints or colors because some of the previous first lady's styles have been a little boring. She seems very down to earth and it shows through her style.

This is my favorite look from her. This Jason Wu dress is just elegant and regal. I think she looks amazing.

This last dress is one of my favorite looks too. When I saw her in this dress I immediately thought wow. She looks amazing and I'm glad she isnt afraid to show her figure without showing too much.

What do you think about Michelle's style?

Ashley

xoxo

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Music Monday: Wale

How I would Style Fur Boots

Fall Trend: Fur Vest

Music Monday: Wale

Wale has been one of my favorite rappers since I heard his first album, Attention Deficit. The content of his songs just spoke to me. That album will go down as one of my favorite albums ever.

About a month ago he released a song with Miguel (who is also one of my favorites right now) and this song is amazing. The song is so smooth and chill, I love it. I cant wait to see a video for the song.

Wale ft. Miguel - Lotus Flower Bomb

Wale's album, Ambition, comes out tomorrow (11.1.11) make sure you get it. I will definitely get a copy.

What do you think about the song?

Ashley

xoxo

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Aussie Heat Protecting Shine Spray

Fall Trend: Fur Vest

How I Would Style Fur Boots

How I Would Style Fur Boots

Earlier this week, I made a post about fur boots so I wanted to come up with two different looks on how I would wear with fur boots. You could do a full on fur boot or a fur trimmed boot. There are so many different styles of boots with fur, the sky is the limit. I prefer a fur boot with a more simple outfit. Since the fur is such a statement piece or the main focus, I like to pair it with basics and neutral colors.

The first look below is military inspired. I think the look of the boots would suit a military jacket pretty well. Between the military inspired jacket and the boots, it would be great to wear a simple top, nothing over the top. The skinny jeans allow you to showcase your silhouette.

military fur boots by msashley407 featuring angora hats

This look below is a more classic way of wearing fur boots. The classic-ness of the lace goes really well with this style of boot. This could be worn to work or a gathering. I think its perfect during the winter. The blazer is just a added touch for when you go outside and it can be a little chilly.

furboots lace top by msashley407 featuring woods boots

How do you like to style fur boots?

Ashley

xoxo

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Fall Trend: Boots with the fur

Aussie Heat Protecting Shine Spray Review

Fall Trend: Fur Vest