Merry Christmas: Today's look

Hey loves, 

The day is here....MERRY CHRISTMAS! 

Today I'm sharing a holiday look. 

This look above is a simple day time smoky eye with a red wine lip. 

Products used: 

Revlon Color stay foundation 

NYX HD concealer 

Victoria Secret Mascara black 

NYX black eyeliner pencil

20 color palette (unknown) 

VS lipgloss 

The scarf I'm wearing I purchased at Chalotte Russe for $5 and the sweater and earrings was given to me from my mom. 

I'm holding my 2 week old twist out up with a large ouchless hair tie. 

Sadly, I'm not home with my family today but I wanted to make sure I sent all my holiday cheer an love to you guys. 

Merry Christmas, 

Jill 

Christmas Wish List Tag

 

Hey loves, 

Tis the season! It's Christmas time and I love this time of year. 

So I created a Tag for the sake of the season. What's on your wish list this Christmas.

My wish list this year: 

I want the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette. Honestly I'll take 2 since I have the first one already. I love this palette, I seen it in Sephora and I wanted to buy it but I'm in college and broke. :( lol! 

Uggs: 

I'm in college and these are te best shoes ever! All you have to do is slip them on and go. With classes as early as 8am that's awesome! 

Coat: 

I live in Kalamazoo, MI, long story short... It's cold! I love this military/Eskimo style coat. It tightens at the waist, 3/4 length the awesome military green and fun detailed hood! What more could I want in a coat. 

Ray-bans "club masters": 

I work at Sunglass hut so...these may be a gift to myself ... Idk! I want them though! 

Mac lipstick:

Actually I'll take any color, but I like this purple color in the photo above! I have no idea what it's called. Lol 

CHANEL quilted chained bag: 

this is seriously a wish lol. This bag is about 2k and I can't afford it, I wish I could. 

I hope all these wishes come true. What is on your wish list. Tag and share! 

I'm tagging: 

Inez of style Chic 360 

Buy any means necessary 

Have fun, happy Holidays, 

Jill 

Natural Hair: My Journey Continues

Hey guys,

11/2/12 marks the day of my Big Chop.

Day 1: Big Chop 11/2/12

Last week I reached my one year NATURALversary. Throughout my journey it has been trial and error. I've learned my hair really doesn't like color...which sucks so much because I still have a little on my ends. I've instilled the "Curly Girl Method" into my regiment. I only cleanse once a month but I co wash every Friday. My wash routine, I adopted the "breakdown method" from natural sista India. I clip when needed and deep condition when necessary (once a month)

Also my hair loves oil. So moisture....moisture...moisture is needed daily. Everyday I spray my hair with room temp water and then apply whatever oil I have at the time. My favorite oils would be: coconut oil, olive oil, 100% Tea tree oil and Castor oil. All of there oils has helped with the growth of my hair.

Coconut oil and Olive oil are thin, light oils...therefore it penetrates the strand and results in sufficient hair moisture. Coconut oil is also a great oil to seal in moisture which is also great for keeping the moisture in the strand.

Tea Tree and Castor Oil helps with scalp penetration and stimulating growth from the root. The only thing I dislike about tea tree oil is its very strong in smell, so I recommend applying at night, and Castor oil is very heavy so apply when needed.

One thing to remember when growing natural hair is to never concentrate on the length. It is better to focus on the health of your hair, because when it's healthy it will only do only do one thing...GROW!

Also remember your hair is going to shed it's perfectly normal. My hair sheds so much! The longer it gets the more it sheds.

I am so happy to be 1 years old in my natural hair journey, I am continuing and constantly changing my regiment. Follow me on Instagram @Ikurlie and Tumblr @napturaldoll. I love the photo above, which stage are you?

Don't forget to comment, share and follow!

xoxo,
Jill

Fall Fascinations

Hey loves,

I am back yet again to share with you my favorite fall beauty and fashion fascinations. I've been away finishing up school (college senior...woop!!!) :) but I'm back now...so love me!

First off, since its fall and getting pretty cold in the midwest-- I've been obsessed with layering. Now, I know this is not a new trend but I've never done it before. Denim button downs, leggings, over sized sweaters, boots, scarves...THE LIST GOES ON! I've realized that my closet is full of stuff that can create an awesome look.

To create any layered look, I suggest shopping at your favorite stores. Mine however is the thrift store, I find the best over sized sweaters and blazers there.

I am also loving the color trends this fall, all the cranberry/wine colors and prints are so eye catching.

Here Goes the Beauty!

I LOVE LIPSTICK! I recently bought a nude lip by MILANI called Teddy Bare #29 and I love it. It's a very affordable lip stick, I paid about $5 for it. I wear it everyday.


I seen Kelsey and Kendra from GlamTwinz334 talk about this brand and I love love love it!

I have to have different foundations for the fall/winter and the spring/summer, only because my skin changes so much :( -- so this fall I will be wearing mostly BB cream or Revlon Colorstay Foundation. Since my skin is more oily in the Fall this foundation works wonders.

Next and thanks to Itsmyrayeraye...I have fallin' in love with elf products. I never really used them besides the liners but they have the best bronzers and lip colors. I can't wait to visit NYC so I can shop til I drop at the elf studio.

These are just a few of my many favorites. Share with me your Faves for Fall!

Stay Beautiful!

Jill

Summer Trend Review

The summer is slowly ending...before you know it we'll be in UGGs and Coats. Here's a little review of my favorite trends this summer.

High Buns: 

From messy to slick, buns can go with any look. Most commonly seen with Braids, these buns are so versatile and I'm almost certain this trend may carryover to fall/winter season.

Eye Wear:

My personal favorite! Sunglasses-- rather its sunny or cloudy, they will do you justice. Most recent styles are vintage inspired, giving you a lil' Marilyn Monroe Cat Eye!

Lip Color:

Riri Woo!!!! Red lips have been all over the magazines and red carpets. This particular lip shade been doing wonders for every skin tone, it almost never looks bad.

Over-sized bags:

Who doesn't like a bag you can put EVERYTHING in. I do! Clutch bags, Cross- body, Totes... the list goes on, they are certainly carrying over to Fall Season.

Single sole Pumps: 

I have a post on single soles. They are so cute and can be dressed up or down. They come open toe, T-strap, and closed toe.

These trends have been seen everywhere and are still in stock in most retail stores.

Tell me your favorite summer trends. 

xoxo,
Jill 

New Arrivals

Love Struck Boutique has New Arrivals. 

Check out the new items now.  GET 10% OFF USING CODE SBJ10! 

Tell Them I Sent YOU.  ;)

HAPPY Shopping! 

XOXO,
Jill

Trending: Overalls

 Yes, they are back! Overalls are making most ADULT women have the best of both worlds. Remember as a child, the only reason you wore overalls was to play outside and sometimes for school. Now women are wearing them for Fashion's Sake. I personally like the idea of overalls with a chic modern twist. Add a pair of pumps, a blouse and a handbag, and you'll look all grown up again :)!

  

 Sneaker wedges and bralette's look great with overalls. It gives the look a traditional 80's feel with a modern twist.  

 

If you notice any fashion guru will always pair overalls and single sole pumps. It's like pairing heels with sweats. You'll will never think they'll go together, but it works! Sort of like Apples and peanut butter...lol!


I love this trend it's so cute and sassy. Overalls can play as a blank canvas and if your daring enough, you'll put just about anything with it and make a remarkable OOTD!

xoxo,
Jill

The Perfect Lips

You want soft kissable lips.. Sure you do, in fact everybody does.
Well here is a D.I.Y lip mask that's tasty and sure to leave your lips nice and sweet.

You'll need:

2 Tbs of Sugar
1 Tbs of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)
1 Tbs of Honey
1 Tsp of Lemon (my little secret)

This recipe works wonders, leave the mask on for about 10-15 minutes and wipe off with a hot rag (as hot as you can stand it). Follow up with your favorite chap stick.  Your lips will be soft and chap free.

xoxo,
Jill

The Perfect Brows

Having the perfect eyebrows is becoming the most important thing in the beauty industry. If you want perfect brows here's how to get them.


Step 1: Brush your brow into a neat shape. Pluck away any stray hairs or clip them.

Step 2: Fill in the first third (top of tear duct) with a lighter shade brow pencil. Use the darker shade to fill in the middle and tail of the brow.

Step 3: Blend shading with your eyebrow brush

Step 4: Use your edge brush to apply concealer to clean up the harsh edges around the brow on top and bottom.

*Tip: Your brows will NEVER look EXACTLY the same. They are like twins, something will always be different about them.

Watch this video Perfect Eyebrow Tutorial  by the Natural Sistas, Carmen has the best eyebrows ever!!!

Hope these steps will help!

xoxo,
Jill

Natural Hair Maintainence

If you have been following my blog,  you know I just had my 1 year natural anniversary,  but it's only been 8 months since my Big Chop (BC).

Being Natural is more work than maintaining permed or heat pressed hair.  You have to constantly tend to your hair daily which can stress your strands.

Especially extremely coiled/kinky hair -- this hair type needs the most maintenance no doubt about it, but don't get caught up in the hair typing trend. This because no hair is the same. 

Here's what I do for my kinky hair.

When Washing

• On dry hair,  finger part hair into manageable sections.

•Finger detangle,  removing knots and shed hair.

•Apply conditioner or shampoo (if clarifying)

•I rinse out my product in the shower, it easier to rinse out using a downward motion. 

When Styling

On dry or wet hair,  section hair off with clips, apply product and style.

Maintaining

At night I oil or spritz water on my hair and wrap a silk scarf around my head or wear a silk bonnet.  These 2 products will keep the moisture in your hair. 

*Some people sleep on silk pillowcases

Products

Carol's Daughter
Shea Moisture
ORS olive oil products
ORGANIC coconut oil
Shea Butter
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Mane n' Tail Conditioner

Protective Styling can help with breakage and growth. However you still have to moisturize and spritz with water. 

Try out these tips and products and tell me how they work for you. 

xoxo,
Jill

Top 5 Fashion Tips and Tricks

Being a woman comes with a number of situations we can or cannot control. However, the way we dress is certainly something we can manage. Here are my top 5 FAVORITE Fashion Tips and Tricks.

1. Never buy the Wrong Coat

The fall/winter season will be here in no time, don't wait til the last minute to get the perfect coat. I was surfing the web and came across this tip from instyle.com.  Having the perfect coat is VERY...VERY....VEEEERRRRYYY IMPORTANT! During this season what's the first thing everybody will see?....your coat. What ever your city's climate is your coat can still be Awesome.

To save a buck, shop smart--- Try websites like Alloy, dELIA*S, Forever 21, and H&M for trendy outerwear. 

2. Pair loose with tight

This tip is great for every body type, but it really serves a purpose for Apple and Pair Shaped women. Wearing a loose top with tight bottoms will balance out the shape of your body as well as the look itself. Being a Pear shaped female myself, I love to wear leggings but to make my look ---look its best... I have to wear a top that does not cling to my mid-section (problem section). 

3. The ultimate Scarf trick

When I was employed at TJ Maxx I love to work in the Jewelry/Accessories Dpt. If you don't know where to purchase a beautiful scarf from TJ's is the place besides DSW. They have awesome prices for designer scarfs or shawls. While working there I noticed we were receiving circle scarfs during the fall season and I fell in love with this style, but I already had a bunch of regular straight scarfs. When I shared this with a co worker, she gave me a little secret.

Take the two ends of the scarf and tie them into a neat knot, when you want to wear it, double loop the scarf around your neck and it will fall just the way the like it. (Also, if you want to make it permanent, sew the ends together with a sewing machine or by hand)

 4. Don't Be Afraid of color

If you look in your closet and notice black, brown, white, gray...boring! It's time you went out and purchased a bold bright color to lighten up your wardrobe. Don't be afraid to play with color and prints, if you don't want to go all the way...try accenting your calm outfits with a bright pop color. For example, if your wearing all black (for some reason...lol jk) try popping a bright pink handbag or chunky necklace to add a focal point to your look.

5. Don't buy it if your unsure

When we go shopping, we pick up just about everything we think we like or might fit--- and 8 out of 10 times we don't need it or it's not really our size. Now this might not apply to everyone, but this was certainly me a few months back. Before you go shopping to add pieces in your wardrobe, check your closet like you would the fridge before grocery shopping. See what you need first before you buy a bunch of things you don't need. Make a list of those items with a desired budget, give your self a little grace period no more than $5 extra. This will help you shop smart and save $$$$.... Oh yea and don't forget to try on items before you purchase them. It's nothing worse than buying an item you really like and can't fit it when you get home.


I hope these tips and tricks will help you and Tell me your favorite tips.

xoxo,
Jill

Calling All Bloggers: Let's Work Together.

 Hello to all my Bloggers out there!

 Love Struck Boutique is looking to collaborate with another fashion and or Beauty Blogger. I am on the hunt for an awesome collabee [my made up word. lol], Any who, we are looking for someone who is willing to generate ideas that will benefit both parties.

If your interested contact me via email jillynnreese@gmail.com

Click here to view Love Struck blog.
www.shoplovestruck.com

xoxo,
Jill  

Headwraps and turbans

Being a fan of almost every major YouTube Naturalist,  I try just about every hairstyle or headwrap I see.  On that note,  I have completely fell in love with turbans.  They are so many styles and ways to wear them. 
It's the best thing for me when my twist outs get old and frizzy. These headwraps are chic and trendy, I absolutely love them. It's way better than just throwing on a baseball cap and heading out the door.
Because my hair is big and curly,  I braided it into two flat twist and secured the ends with Bobby pins.  I used a new scarf I purchased at Forever 21 and wrapped it from the back to the front. 
Some people twist the knot until it rolls up on it's own first — but before it do that I tie and Rubberband around it to keep it tight, then proceed to twisting. 
This is a very easy to do trend.  Try it out and tell me what you think.
xoxo,
JILL

Trend Alert: Single Soles

I'm sure you've noticed, everywhere has single sole pumps. I remember when my mom used to where shoes like these and I hated them as a kid. Now they are consuming my closet.

Single sole pumps have come a long way but still has the traditional vintage look. Most single sole pumps are buckled around the ankle and can be open or closed toe.

These chic and dainty shoes can be dressed up or down.

Love Struck's Mavis Black Pump goes great with a pair of skinny blue jeans paired with a vibrant lime green peplum and neon yellow clutch bag. This look is great for day time shopping and brunch with friends.

This single sole pump also looks great with this Hot red sweetheart dress and White Over sized Clutch from Love Struck boutique as well.

Single sole pumps have definitely made a come back in today's retail stores.


You can purchase the Mavis Black pump and White over sized clutch at www.shoplovestruck.com and get 10% off by using Code SBJ10. 

Tell me what you think. 

xoxo,
Jill 

Summer Footwear + DISCOUNT

Working for Love Struck comes with a few perks — discounts,  meeting new people,  working with people who don't live in the same country as me........ Did I say discounts already  :).
However the one thing I love the most is giving you guys deals you can resist. 
Whenever you shop at LS and your ready to checkout... Don't fret you can get 10% off your entire purchase by using a Special Code
SBJ10 gets you 10% off of anything
Like a pair of sandals
Ava Sandal $21.90
www.shoplovestruck.com
Don't forget the discount code SBJ10
XOXO,
Jill

Perfect Skin - Healthy Body

Hey guys,

I have a little insider and secret that I want to share. :) Just kidding people all over the US, are getting down with the homemade green smoothie. Now, don't judge the book by it's cover, this beverage is AWESOME, and the taste is even better. Similar to the "Naked" Green Machine Juice which it almost $4 for a simple 8oz, you can make twice as much, better yet triple the amount. 

I usually keep fruit around my house so I don't have to always buy everything at once at the market. This drink is great blended or Juiced. When blended you get all the nutrients from the skin of the fruits and veggies, but when juiced your only getting the juice of the ingredients. Now either way is healthy and you will get the same results, it just depends on your personal taste.

Benefits....

Clear soft skin
Increases Metabolism
Increased energy
Regular digesting
Softer hair (naturals you'll love it)
Brighter eyes 

When you make this drink for the first time you'll determine what you like more or less in your smoothie but once you try it, you'll love it!

xoxo,
Jill

Classic and Chic

There is nothing more easier to wear then the classics. You've got your favorite jean (levi's for me) and your boyfriend's all white button down shirt. The best thing about this OOTD is that you can accessorize with just about anything.

In this Casual Day Time OOTD I've accessorized with a few items from shoplovestruck.com (YAY!!!)

Reggie Black and Orange Pumps- $43.80
Royal Blue Over-sized Clutch (w/ strap)- $33.90

Try this OOTD for a day out with the girls!

Get 10% off the LS items (www.shoplovestruck.com)
CODE: SBJ10

xoxo,
Jill

Instagram: @lovestruckdoll
Twitter: @_almondjoii
Tumblr: napturalDoll

Taming My Mane

It's been 6 months since my Big Chop (BC) ...YAY!!!

I have been completely heat, perm, weave free! It was hard but I did it and I'm doing it!

I did my own big chop. I was completely frustrated with my hair. It's been 1 year since putting heat in my hair. I was wearing my hair in two indian braids until I got my last weave.

 The first day I cut my hair....It was different but I loved it! 

 2 months after my BC still dark brown, but this is a wet and go. I didn't start two strand twist until the end of my 3rd beginning of my 4th month.










Soon after I colored my hair a redish brown color ( I cant really explain how it turned out) but I loved it! From then on, I continued twisting my hair. I only clip my hair once ever 4 months, and I'm still developing my moisturizing routine. I'm want to use completely natural products, particularly homemade, but I'm still doing research on those things.

I am extremely happy with my hair! It's Soooooo ME!

Right now I'm not really sure what the length of my hair is. I try not to concentrate on the length, but the health of my hair is more important to me!


These last two pictures are the most current! with a puff ball (My go-to style) and a halo braid I had a few weeks ago!

I can't wait til my hair routine is completely developed, and my hair is completely healthy!

Thanks for reading

xoxo,
Jill

Marble Maven

Hey Guys,

So, I been living on a budget and haven't been able to go to the nail salon, so I've been manicuring and polishing my own nails. Tired of the regular basic coat of polish, I "youtube'd" so easy D.I.Y designs. I came across a tutorial on Marble nails. Seeing this design before I immediately began the steps to get my marble nails!!!! WHOO!!

Please try it!!! 

But first watch this video Cute Polish Marble Nails




What you will need!

1. Bowl or Cup
2. Desired Polishes
3. Toothpicks
4. Room temp water (MUST BE ROOM TEMP)
5. Q-Tips
6. Polish Remover
7. Tape

How my nails turned out!!! :) 

+bold

+bold by jillynnreese featuring suede pumps

Manolo Blahnik suede pumps / Johnny Loves Rosie colorblock handbag / Aqua jewelry, $54 / Paige Denim teal jewelry

styled

styled by jillynnreese featuring lining shoes

Lining shoes / Real leather handbag

Boy Meets Girl

Boy Meets Girl by jillynnreese featuring patterned shirts

Patterned shirt / Camouflage legging / ALDO platform sneaker / Bric's backpacking bag / Mango jewelry / River Island , $7.77 / Kate Spade lipstick / Essie peach nail polish

That Guy

 

Hey Guys, 

No literally....Hey guys! Here's a little something I put together. these are just a few pieces I feel like every guy should have in his closet. Hopefully you do! Be "That Guy" girls love it...no matter how much we act like we don't! :) 

xoxo, 

Jill 

"Finger Candy"

It seems like just last year...Everybody was all about "arm candy" ...The more bracelets the better, Right? Although that trend is still in, the focus has been brought down the arm a few inches. Rings and Things. It's not only about what's on your wrist, your fingers and nails matter just as much.

Polishes are getting funkier and Rings are getting bolder. Never underestimate a girl with barbie pink polish I'm sure her rings are going to contradict that "girly" powder puff shade. OPI has debuted a number of different shades for nails to twinkle. My favorite would be Brights by OPI. Just in time for spring, your nails will be one step ahead of you....being noticed that is. Every shade would be daring touch to a any OOTD.

Checkout rings at GoJane.com, Forever21.com, Charlotte Russe and even WetSeal. I bet you'll find something you'll fall in love with.

Happy Shopping,
Jill

Sneaker Wedge Trend!!

Sneaker Wedge Trend!! by jillynnreese featuring leopard wedge heels

Lace up wedge sneaker / Lace up wedge sneaker / Leopard wedge heels / Lace up wedge sneaker / Lace wedge / Wedge sneaker shoes / Faux leather shoes / Wedge sneaker shoes

Spring time looksee

Spring time looksee by jillynnreese featuring yellow pumps

5 Day OOTD Challenge

Hey guys,

At the beginning of each week, it always seems to be a hassle of putting together what I MIGHT wear. I put emphasis on might because I change my mind all the time. So here's a few ideas ideas of what I might put together if I had these items in my closet. Which ootd is your favorite? Replicate and share.

love,
Jill

@stylesbyJill
@shoplove_struck

My everyday beauty process

Hey guys,

Today I will be sharing the 10 products I use everyday in my beauty regiment.  These items are a must have in my make up bag,  and hair box.  Each item can be purchased at Target, ULTA, or any drugstore. 

1. Ambi soap and fade cream - I love ambi products they give me a clean finish but it doesn't dry out my skin.  My favorite soap is their black soap. The fading creme keeps down black spots and blotches.

2. Shea butter curl smoothie - I went natural 6 months ago and this product makes my hair extremely soft for the first few days of my twist out.  It also holds my curls pretty tight too. 

3. Carol's Daughter Products - ULTA has all of their products, I particularly like the oils,  they smell amazing.

4. Bobby Pins - you can never have too many of these.  I wear my hair in certain styles that I have to have numerous Bobby pins.  The jumbo pins are the best.  You can purchase these anywhere. 

5. Maybellines "baby lips" lip balm - I love this entire line.  Bought my from target for 2.99, but ULTA has a double pack for 3.99. I suggest collecting them all.  They make your lips soft and youthful. 

6. Bronzer - I don't particularly have a must have brand.  All bronzer's pretty much does the same thing (for me atleast).

7. NYX HD Concealer - I only use this under my eyes and to clean up my brows after filling them in.  It has a clean finish but like all concealers it creases throughout the day. But your foundation should help eliminate most of the creasing. 

8. NYX brow/liner pencil - just what it is, I fill in my brows and line my eyes. Only 1.99 at Target.

9. REVLON Colorstay Foundation - I have oily skin and I was just recommended to use this,  so far I love it.  It minimize oil on the face so you won't have to worry about that 5pm shiny T-zone. 

10. Mascara- I don't have a favorite, this is what I'm using now.  I like it a lot,  it makes my lashes long and full.  It's doesn't run or smudge, it's also easy to remove at the end of my day. 

What is your everyday beauty regiment?

Love,
Jill

@StylesbyJill
@Shoplove_stuck

Spring CHIC

Trending colors coral/peach and sea green! 

Hot or not?

Shoe-aholic

Hey guys,

I have been finding so many great places to shop for shoes and clothes [Besides Shoplovestruck.com :)]... But lately I've been doing a lot of online shopping. So I'm here to share my finds. A few months ago a stumbled across a website called lolashoetique.com and I immediately fell in love with there merchandise. A few weeks ago I ordered two pair of boots by the name of milky way. Now if you love to shop for less, here's a DEAL! I'm sure your familiar with the famous boot "Doc Martens", well the Milky Way boot is inspired by this very boot but for more than half the price.

Doc Martens 130.00

MilkyWay 30.99

I really like Doc Martens, but on my college budget, my pockets don't. So here's my look for less this week. LolaShoetique has a great selection from sneaker wedges, boots, heels, flats etc. Save money and shop there for the same look or ever better. You shouldn't have to break you pockets to turn heads.
I also purchased a pair of sneaker wedges from Charlotte Russe, a tan faux leather studded pair. I promised they scream Jill as soon as I walked in the store. Plus I went in on a great sale. All shoes were buy one get one for 12.50. I absolutely LOOOVEEEE BOGO sales. I completely recommend shopping for less. You'll look so great for half the price.

Check out lolashoetique.com  I promise you'll buy something!

Until next time...Happy shopping! and remember to SAVE!!

Love, 
Jill 

Hard Work pays off!

Hey guys,

I am back! As usual school has been stealing my time from the computer. But I've made time for just a few announcements. I can finally say I have a posting schedule for my blog outside of my work. Every Wednesday, I'll be posting a "New Post". I have a couple things coming up that is sure to benefit you guys so just hang in there. I promise you want be disappointed!

Also, check out and follow my new twitter account, just for FashionCents with Jill. There is where I'll be sharing my ideas, photos and tips. The account is actually one of the pages on here so go ahead and click away!

Stay tuned for more with me.

Love,

Jill