Do you want to work in Fashion? Here's Your Ultimate Reading List

Who else has dreamed of working in fashion since they were little? I know I have! I have been collecting these books over the past couple of years and they've helped me explore the fashion world through words and helped me discover what I want to do in fashion.

1. The Teen Vogue Handbook: An Insider's Guide To Careers

You must have the Teen Vogue Handbook if you want to work in fashion. The cover itself says its, "An insider's guide to careers in fashion."  Most people think of a fashion designer or fashion sales assistant when people talk about working in the fashion industry. This book explores the many other options that exist within the industry. Some of them include working for a magazine (editor, fashion director, fashion news or beauty assistant, social media manager, online editor and so much more) being a fashion photographer or model, a fashion stylist and the digital fashion world (bloggers, vloggers and more.)

2. #GirlBoss

By Sophia Amoruso

I love this book. It is inspiring for any fashion entrepreneur or any women for that matter. I heard about the hashtag #GirlBoss before I heard about this book. The name in itself has such a powerful meaning. The book has inspired me to one day be a #GirlBoss. Sophia's story is an inspiring read for any fashion student or enthusiast.

3. The Dress: 100 Iconic Fashion Moments
By Megan Hess

I picked this book up a while ago while I was shopping in Indigo because of the cover. The cover and pages have shiny gold on them. I mean how eye-catching! This book is a must have because of the illustrations inside. The book has six different sections; designers, icons, weddings, music, film, and Oscars. Each section has multiple pictures of iconic fashion moments; hence the title. This book is a great combination of history (what has happened over the years in fashion), people (who make looks iconic) and inspiration (that can help with any fashion project.)

4. Style
By Lauren Conrad

This book was the first fashion book I ever purchased. I also have her Beauty book and soon will get the new Celebrate book. If you don't know about Lauren Conrad and her success, then where have you been hiding? She is one of my fashion icons and I personally love her style. This book is perfect for beginners who want to learn more about fashion and style. Lauren covers key pieces that should be in your wardrobe, how to accessorise and go-to "fool-proof" outfits. Overall, a great read that should be on your fashion reading list.   

5. Leave Your Mark
By Aliza Licht

I discovered this book existed while completing my Fashion Industry Essentials Certificate online with Parsons and Teen Vogue. In the program, you get to watch some videos from Aliza herself and learn what PR is all about. After I watched those videos during the course, I knew I had to get her book. First of all, she is known as being the PR queen in the fashion world, so I do trust what she states in her novel. Leave Your Mark is essential (I think) to killing it in the fashion industry and helping yourself succeed to the best of your ability. 

6. Influence
By Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

I grew up watching Mary-Kate and Ashley on TV and in movies, reading their books (I have a Two of Kind book on my bookshelf currently) and loving their style. Both of them are my top style icons. They have been in the spotlight since they were babies and now have built a fashion "empire." Both of their lines, The Row & Elizabeth and James have been so successful. The book was written in 2008 and is all about everyone who has influenced them. I think it is a great read to discover some individuals who could potentially influence you. The book is also larger than the others ones I mentioned in this post; it could make a great coffee table book. With that being said the book has beautiful large graphics of inspiring fashion images. Overall, I think this book is a must have. I mean it is written by two truly well recognised and respected individuals in the industry.

I purchased all my books from Indigo online and in stores over the past couple of years. Right now they are having a sale check it out here. Do you have any favourite fashion reads? Is there on you love that I have to read? Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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Vegan Cuts June Beauty Box Unboxing

This month's Beauty Box from Vegan Cuts was amazing. I think it was much better than May's box. It came with 6 beauty/skincare items that coordinate very well with one another. The box has a total value of $67.90. Which is fantastic because I paid $34, shipping included. This box is of great value and of course, no animals were harmed (the products are 100% vegan).

1. Ofra Cosmetics - Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in Laguna Beach ($19.90 value)

2. Mai Couture Blotting Sheets ($12.00 Value)

3. Clarisea Sea Salt Solutions Rapid Detox Charcoal Exfoliant ($3.00 Value)

4. Puresol Konjac Facial Sponge ($10.00 Value)

5. Glow for a Cause Solid Perfume ($18.00 Value)

6. Devita Mineral Sunscreen ($5.00 Value)

First, let's talk about the liquid lipstick. At first, I thought the colour was going to be too dark for me but, it appears lighter on my lips than it does in the tube. Overall, a really pretty colour, perfect for summertime.

Next, I saw the blotting sheets and charcoal face exfoliant. I have extremely oily skin especially in the summer months, so receiving these items is a perfect match for me. Anything charcoal is amazing for detoxifying and helping out oily/acne prone skin.

Then, I saw the konjac facial sponge. I already am using my second Boscia konjac facial sponge I got from Sephora. I love using it with my cleanser, it acts as a daily gentle exfoliator. The only downside is that the Boscia sponge is $19. If I like the one in the box (which I probably will) it is only $10 on the vegan cuts website.

Last, I saw the solid perfume and sunscreen. I love the idea of having a solid perfume, it will be great to travel with this summer and it smells amazing. And having a sunscreen in the summer, especially in a mini size, is great for travel and beach days. 

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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How to make an Inspiration "Board"

Today I am going to talk about a different way to make an inspiration board that doesn't require an actual board. I am going to show you the making of my inspiration space. All I used was photos; printed and personal, and washi tape. Before I made my Inspiration space for above for my desk space I researched a ton of them and different ways to make them. This blog post really helped me decide what I should put on mine. An inspiration space or board should display pictures that inspire you in all different areas of your life.

1. You have to have positive quotes

My personal mantra is "live what you love!" I chose to put that on my board plus some others.

2. Add add personal element

I chose to add a picture of my friend and I at our graduation last year.

3. Your current projects

I chose to put pictures go my own window displays using online software and my blog header.

4. An image from an unrelated field

The hot air balloon picture has nothing to do with anything; it's just cute.

5. A colour palette

I couldn't decide on one so I picked two. Light pink and blue are my two favourite colours.

6. Some aspirational photos

I chose pictures that represent fashion and travelling. 

First, I printed the pictures out (I would recommend using a thicker paper) and then arranged them on an open area to my liking before setting them in place.

With all that said here is mine:

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

All images were taken from Pinterest or they are my personal photos.

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My Daily Face

I have mastered these 11 steps into a 10-minute routine that I do almost every morning. And I sometimes skip the BB cream and bronzer because there isn't always time. Here is the daily routine and products:

1. Prime the skin

I use the First Aid Beauty Mattifying Gel because I have extremely oily skin. I find using the gel helps my oily skin because it isn't sliding off my face like other lotion moisturisers. You can buy it here.

2. The Base

I apply the Guerlain BB Cream in Light all over my face and blend down my neck. It is a light coverage that gives a dewy finish.

3. Correct the darkness

I apply a small amount of the First Aid Beauty concealer (eye duty triple remedy) to my entire under-eye and blend with my finger and beauty blender. You can buy it here. 

4. Concealer the darkness

I apply the It Cosmetics Bye-Bye Undereye (light) directly in the inner corners of my eyes (which is the darkest part for me) and blend with my finger and the beauty blender.

5. Set everything in place

I dust the It Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Face Powder all over my face, but especially the t-zone to get rid of the shiny finish. 

6. Try to look tan

I apply the Guerlain Bronzer in Light Blonde to my cheekbones and do the "3" "E" method. I use a kabuki to blend after so it doesn't look harsh.

7. Add a natural flush

This varies but, my favourites are Benefit Coralista and It Cosmetics CC Radiant blush. I apply the blush to the apples of my cheeks. I use a kabuki to blend after so it's not too bright.

8. Glow from within

I brush the Lorac Highlighter in Spotlight onto the high points of my face (cheekbones, nose, and chin). I use a kabuki to blend after so it doesn't look intense.

9. Brow game

I use the new Benefit Ka Brow in Light 1 to fill in the little gaps. It is part of their new brow collection and I am in love it. Best brow product I have ever used. 

10. Eyelashes

I apply one coat of Covergirl Clump Crusher in Black Brown to my upper lashes only.

11. Avoid dry lips

I prep my lips with the Super Fresh SPF15 Treatment and it varies day by day if I apply colour. 

The Tools:

Beauty Blender & It Cosmetics Brushes (which are the best brushes I have ever used)

The Result:

What products do you use daily? Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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Display Techniques

There are four display theories that I am familiar with and I am going to share my knowledge of them with you today. Using the same theme/accessories I will show you examples of each display theory with mannequins in a window. You can use the same props, accessories, and mannequins in different ways to achieve multiple looks. The possibilities are endless!

1. Symmetrical

Symmetrical means a group of items that mirror the same image on both sides. I personally like the symmetrical method the best and use it without even realising it. In symmetrical displays both sides are balanced and I find it is more pleasing for the eye to follow while observing a display. In the above window, we have the centre point (mannequin) and the same things on each side of the window. Most windows and displays that use symmetrical groupings form a pyramid shape.

2. Asymmetrical

Asymmetrical is the opposite of symmetrical. So, both sides of a display or window do not have to be equal. Most asymmetric displays follow a one-sided pyramid. It is still very important that there is height so that the eye knows where to look first. Using asymmetric is popular among retailer because it allows you to showcase more product. In the above window, I demonstrated the one-sided pyramid with the standing mannequins and then the sitting mannequin.

3. Repetition 

Repetition means repeating the same product usually in odd numbers. In the above window, I repeated the mannequins five times and the prop stands four times. I always think the repetition technique gives an eye-catching effect to the window. The repetition of the same outfit on the mannequins creates a strong brand message. 

4. Alternation

Alternation is alternating associated products; things that are linked/go well together. In the above window, I alternated the mannequin and prop stand with the stand alone mannequin. I never find myself using this technique. However, it adds something different to a display or window.

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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ipsy June Glam Bag!

I did it. I signed up for ipsy. I just got my first bag in the mail today and wanted to share the products with all of you. If you want to join you can on ipsy's website. 

This month's theme was Rebel Rebel. I think the bag itself is pretty cute.

1. The Balm Eyeshadow in Matt Moskowitz

2. Jouer Highlighter in Tiare (gold cream shimmer)

3. Royal & Langnickel Double-Ended Eyeshadow Brush (Crease/Smudge)

4. Elizabeth Mott Show Me Your Cheeks Blush in Peach Pink

5. Cake Beauty Deletable Everything Balm

The product I am most excited to try is the Jouer highlighter. It's such a pretty colour and I have heard amazing things about this brand. It was also exciting to get a Balm eyeshadow. The colour I got has a purple undertone to it and I'm not really a purple wearer. I also got the double ended eyeshadow brush which has super soft bristles. I already have a mini size of the delectable balm from another subscription service but, that's okay. It is a great product that can be used on everything. The last item in the bag was the blush. It is a very pretty colour but, I already have a couple of peachy pink blushes already. I am very impressed by my first bag, especially the brands.

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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Anybody else have Bra-blems?

We've all been there after a long day at school or work when you get home, and you just want to take your bra off immediately. Let's admit it, bras aren't fun but, we have to wear them. 

When I do fashion posts I tend to focus on the clothes themselves or the theme and not the undergarments you need to achieve the look. However, nowadays it feels like we need like 20 bras for all the different styles of tops and dresses out there. I think having one properly fitted bra will replace the other 19; giving us 19 less 'bra-blems'. 

I don't know about you but, I have faced many 'bra-blems'. If you have to leave them in the comments down below. Some of the major 'bra-blems' I can experience are:

'Slipping Straps': When I walk/run down the stairs everything starts moving around and my straps always fall down my shoulders. It is just plain annoying to always re-adjust everything.

The Sliding Strapless Bra: it was my birthday not too long ago and of course you need the perfect birthday outfit. Mine was a halter top so, obviously, I needed a special bra to achieve the look and I went with the strapless. Strapless bras are a pain in the butt. You constantly have to pull them up and if you don't, it makes your boobs look like they're hanging lower than they should be. (Which isn't flattering on anyone.)

I mean us ladies have to deal with enough and an uncomfortable bra shouldn't be one of them. ThirdLove reached out and asked me to share my 'bra-blems' and help you guys out with some solutions. Here is a helpful infographic provided by ThirdLove to help us all out with our 'bra-blems'!

Once we have found the perfect bra, in the perfect size, and in the perfect colour we must remember to take care of them properly. Remember to wash them regularly. I usually wash my bras every 5-7 days. Some tips are to hand wash your bras and lay them out to dry. Also, keep them displayed nicely like you see in stores. Not only does this look cute but, it helps the bras keep their shape.

ThirdLove has been so generous in providing a promo code for 15% off your entire order until the end of 2016: BRABLEMS Be sure to check out their gorgeous bras!

ThirdLove also has 1/2 sizes! Who even knew these existed with bras?? So if you're in-between cup sizes give their 1/2 sizes a try!

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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A Day in the Life of a Visual Merchandiser

I have worked in retail since 2013 and have experienced all the jobs that need to get done. My favourite jobs in retail happen when the store is closed. I have to wake up really early in the morning (at least for me) to go to work. But, I would rather do that than work in sales (the job was just not for me). I like the more creative aspect of retail and displaying merchandise to fit trends, help customers navigate their way through the store and increase customer purchases while shopping. Every day at work is different and I love that because I can get bored very easily. In my opinion, visual is a more challenging job for me. So moral of this little story is when you find something you like, just do it because happiness is key to loving what you do.

My day starts off by about four alarms going off so I can get up and start getting ready. #notamorningperson. At 5:00 am - 5:30 am I wake up and get ready. I only live about five minutes from work so at 5:45 am I leave for work.

Outfit - #allblackeverything
TopShop Cami
Vero Moda Cardigan
Garage Leggings
Bag - Steve Madden
Comfy shoes - TOMS
Simple makeup - daily face routine coming soon
Hair - starts out down and straight but, usually goes up in ponytail

When I arrive at work I will work one of two days:

In-Store Marketing/Stock Day or Visual Presentation Day

Overall I love my job because every day is different and it gives me an opportunity to be creative and contribute my talents. The only cons I feel exist in visual merchandising are the early hours (or occasional overnights) and the overwhelming amount of merchandise that will arrive sometimes.

Anyways, if anyone is interested in working in visual merchandising/display and has questions let me know in a comment below!

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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May Glossy Box Unboxing!

I just received my first Glossy Box in the mail today and wanted to share the products with all of you. If you want to join Glossy Box and get their June Box you can here.

Products:

1. Rituals Cosmetics Shower Foam in T'ai Chi (1.6oz/50ml)

2. Versaspa Face Moisturizing Gradual Tanner (0.25oz x2)

3. Talika Photo-Hydra Day (1oz/30ml - Full Size)

4. Nioxin System 1 Cleanser and Scalp Therapy Conditioner (1.7oz/50ml)

5. Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Super Curling and Lifting Mascara (0.1oz)

6. Pure Illumination Glossy Gloss in Pouty Pink (0.25 oz - Full Size)

My thoughts on the May box:

The Photo-Hydra Day moisturizer is interesting because it says "1st cream inspired by Photo-Beauty Therapy to use energy from light to intensely moisturize the skin." I am not quite sure what that means but, the box came with a full-size so there is a lot for me to try out and see if I like it. The shower gel smells amazing so, I'm sold. The lipgloss is one of those that has the blinding light in the lid. It smells really minty and isn't sticky. I am excited to try out the Nioxin System because I have fine hair. I am excited to get a travel size of the Roller Lash by Benefit because I already have one and love it. I have thin, blonde eyelashes and this mascara makes them so long they hit my brow bone. I am always looking for a new self-tanner to try out and this one looks interesting because the box says it doesn't have the sunless tanning odour. From what I can tell the smell is not the typical self-tanner scent, it smells kind of refreshing. 

I am in love with the products in the box. However, if you are a Canadian or international customer please be aware of COD charges that may be applied to your purchase. I had to pay $17.00 to get my box from the post office. The only reason I paid was to make this blog post. If this continues I will not be continuing with the subscription service. I hope Glossy Box does something about it if they want to continue having a worldwide customer base.

Update: I have been refunded the Can$17.00 COD charge to my account on June 6, 2016.

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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19 things I learned before turning nineteen

1. If something isn't making you happy, stop doing it

2. Boys come and go; friends are forever

3. Sometimes you need a break from certain people and that's okay

4. Mom always has the answer

5. Don't forget to try something new every once in a while

6. Live in the moment; never regret the chances you didn't take

7. To do lists can get you through the day

8. Never compare yourself to others; just be you

9. If you don't like a job, quit! Life is too short to be doing something you don't love (but, never quit a job until you have another one lined up)

10. Believe in yourself

11. Take lots of pictures

12. Make a plan......

13. ....but, know you will change it multiple times

14. You cannot make everybody happy

15. A simple smile can change someone's day, even your own

16. Everything happens for a reason; even if the reason doesn't present itself until later

17. Follow your passions, you have them for a reason

18. Put on a smile and fake it 'till you make it! I mean your still only 19!

19. "live what you love", it's your life

xoxo,

Lisa-Marie

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