Favorite Beauty Products

I am an amateur when it comes to applying beauty products and knowing exactly what works with my skin and color. However, I LOVE talking beauty products with friends, I watch tons of YouTube videos to get the application right and see what others have to say about products that did and didn’t work for them (my channel is still in the works). While I’m still constantly learning about new products, techniques, and myself, I have managed to scramble up some of my favorites. These are the products that make me look twice in the mirror at myself because they’re the best I’ve tried to far.

Beauty profile recap: I’m half Japanese, half Mexican. I have normal to dry skin. Dry skin being directed at my forehead area and chin. I did start to remove the darker hair on my face for better makeup application and so that skincare products can better adhere and soak in my skin. I have hereditary dark circles under my eyes that cannot necessarily be remedied by products, only covered up.

Beauty Fave #1: MAC Mineralize Skin Finish in Soft and Gentle 

I bought this maybe 2 years ago and I still have it! This product  lasts such a long time, I kid you not. I wear this product on a daily basis because it’s not super strong, at least when applied with a brush. It gives me just the right amount of lit from within glow. It doesn’t look chalky or white on my darker skin since it’s a champagne color. If you want to build the intensity, you can apply it directly to your face with your fingers or fix plus on a brush. I have never tried strobing, but I imagine it could work with that too.

Beauty Fave #2: Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder

Yes, everyone and their mother mentions this product. Why? Because it’s freaking amazing, that’s why. One of the few gems that doesn’t look white on camera even though it has talc in it. It never looks cakey, even when I try to “bake” with it nor does it feel heavy on the face. It’s so finely milled that it gives you an airbrushed effect on the skin. Their website claims that it contains “unique light-reflecting ingredient that creates a ‘soft-focus’ appearance for fine lines and imperfections”. Honestly, I feel like it does just that. I don’t think I have a major fine line  problem on my face, but I do have a crease right under one of my eyes, and it doesn’t make it look so apparent, which I love!

Beauty Fave #3: Maybelline Volum’ Express The Falsies Push Up Drama Mascara

Maybelline always has long ass names for their products. Luckily, that’s the only thing I’m not fond of about this product. Other than that, this product is one of my favorite mascaras I’ve tried. I’ve never been into high end mascaras and I’ve tried a ton of other drugstore mascaras, but this is one that I loved since the day I bought it. The bristles on the brush are rubber and thin. This means it grasps my lashes well and prevents major clumps from happening. Other mascaras I’ve tried end up smudging or transferring under my eyes after a long day, which is a pain. I don’t use this in the waterproof formula, yet it stays put all day. It evenly coats my lashes and makes them dark, long, and volumized.

Beauty Fave #4: MAC Strobe Cream

My best friends, Nicole and Jennifer, introduced this product to me. The Strobe Cream from MAC is morning dew in a bottle. I love how this looks underneath my foundation. My skin tends to look dull throughout the day, but adding this little gem into my routine amps up my game. It’s supposed to be a moisturizer that has tiny iridescent particles that gives you a lit from within glow. I used to be all about a matte face but realized that it just doesn’t work for my dull skin. Adding a little dew to my face makes me look more fresh faced and awake!

Beauty Fave #4: MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Soft Ochre

Nicole introduced this one to me too! She loves MAC, obviously, but all of her suggestions haven’t been wrong. It’s probably the reason why MAC has been around for so long! This stuff beats the eye shadow primers I’ve tried. Everyone raves about the Urban Decay eye shadow primers, but I didn’t like them. This stuff is under the eye shadow category in MAC which is why I never thought of trying it. The formula is smooth, not cakey, however, it does have great coverage on my lids. It cancels out any discoloration on my lids so that my eyes shadow pops. This product with your eye shadow on top mixed with MAC Fix Plus definitely intensifies any colored eye shadow. I never used to wear eye shadow all that much, but since I got the paint pot in Soft Ochre, I haven’t been a day without some on!

Beauty Fave #5: Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Face Mask 

Jennifer got me this for my birthday and I’ve been obsessed ever since. She always hears me complain about my damn dry forehead that itches like crazy during the day but especially at night. This product is supposed to be an overnight mask that you are only required to wear 3 times a week. I slather this on my face, with most attention to my forehead, every night before I go to sleep. It seriously helps prevent me from going Kujo on my  face. I’ve seen a very positive reaction in my skin using this product mixed with drinking more water every day. The ingredients are amazing too what with Japanese seaweed, apricot kernels, and avocado oil.

Makeup is a form of art to some, but for me  it’s really just a way to feel like my best self. Women and men should never feel they have to set beauty standards for themselves based on what other people say, but we also shouldn’t shame them for doing what makes them feel happy and comfortable. My makeup regime makes me feel complete and ready for my day. I feel confident and glad I can experiment with different looks if I want to.

These are my top picks right now and I love them for their unique qualities. My skin is high maintenance, but these products work for me. Thank you friends for sharing similar interests and recommending a majority of these products.

xoxo

Golden Globes 2016: Favorite Red Carpet Looks

Every year I always miss the long awaited award shows, this time because I was enjoying the snow in Lake Tahoe (pure snowy bliss). Alas, the one thing I go back to check is not the winners, but the fashion. I love those moments when we see the latest designs brought to life filling my dreams with sequins and lace and plunging necklines that I wish I had an award show to attend just so I could wear it all.

This year, I had some major favorites. The one trend I saw a lot of consistency with was the plunging necklines.  And well, they didn’t disappoint. With color and fabric, there was an array of bold hues and texture. So let’s get to it, let’s talk red carpet FASHION!

Amber Heard in Gucci

Although she left Johnny Depp at home, this girl glistened all on her own. The florette detail along the high neckline that travels down her back to a plunging back neck is intricate and beautiful. Her stylist picked a stunning gown that flattered her body. There’s a lot of fabric, but not too much where it eats her alive..this was one red carpet look that stunned down right down to the makeup and accessories.

Zendaya in Marchesa

This girl is younger than me and gets to dress up in clothes I can only dream about. She knocked this look right out of the park. But of course, when has Marchesa done a girl wrong? Never. This deep red is beautiful on her skin tone. The tiers are so extreme, but it somehow works on her thin frame. Here we see the plunging neckline that works for her as she is not too busty, making it not overly sexy for her younger age. She looks feminine and stunning! The hair and accessories were done right..not too over the top to let the dress speak for itself. Plus, I love how she didn’t do a deep red lip like I know others may choose to do. You go, Zendaya!

Brie Larson in Calvin Klein Collection

Last time I saw Brie Larson in a movie was Hoot (anybody remember that? It’s on HBOGO). Anyway, she is coming back and making moves. As an underdog at red carpets like this, she definitely made a statement that made me notice her. This Calvin Klein Collection gown is stunning on her. Shimmery in a neutral color that doesn’t wash her out and in a silhouette that is sexy and sleek, but not over the top. Congratulations on the rockin ensemble and the Golden Globe!

Now, let’s get to the after party fashion!

Selena Gomez in J. Mendel

Every time Selena walks a carpet, I start telling myself I want her to be my best friend so we can share clothes, which actually means I peruse her closet every single day. This dress is so simple and has a bohemian feel, but she made it utterly perfect for an elegant party look. Off white with subtle pleating in the fabric with the bardot neckline that accentuates her soft shoulders and decolletage..it’s all just sensational. The emerald jewels adds that unique pop of color while complementing that gun metal clutch she’s donning. You cannot see it in these images, but she’s wearing a metallic single strap heel that matches her clutch. She did this look so right! Could we expect any less from this girl?

Jennifer Lopez in Unknown

J.Lo killed it in her yellow Giambattista Valli Haute Couture gown, but she also killed it in this white gown for the after party. When everyone else has sparkle and sequins and beading, she kept it simple in an all white gown, Jimmy Choo shoes, and Harry Winston jewels with a bold, deep red lip that matches her complexion. This woman is stunning as it is, but she proved that sophistication and glam can be sexy and stand out without all the glitz.

Ashley Madekwe in Monique Lhullier

Ashley Madekwe typically dresses amazingly and the Golden Globes after party was no exception. This dress is out of this world with its unique structure in the skirt and contrast color beading. I love the illusion neckline, although it’s black, it is so sheer and adds sheer cover to her neckline. The accessories were kept simple as it should be for this stand out dress. I would never be able to pull this dress off, but Ashley does and she does it so well.

 

Those were my top picks for the actual awards show and the after parties. Now excuse me while I go cry my eyes out because I can only dream of wearing these stunning gowns and accessories and shoes!

xoxo

GRWM: Shay Mitchell Inspired

I’ve been taking an AMAZING dance class here is SF. It’s called Hip Hop Heels and taught by my amazing instructor, Marqui. I think of it as my Beyonce 101 class. Every season all of the different dance classes put on workshops and have a performance. Our performance is Dec. 5 & 6 so we decided to take group photos to promote it. We got to bring out our “inner sexy” if you will.

If you know me, you know I love to dance and have been doing it since I was little. This class is different than what I’m used to, but instills a confidence in me that I’ve never known before. Plus, I’ve met incredible women in the class.

I did a Get Ready with Me video to show you the look I did for the promotional pictures. Check it out below and let me know what you think!

 

xoxo

Cozy Up This Winter

Moving to San Francisco doesn’t mean we’ll be introduced to blizzards or that our thermostat will read below 45 degrees. However, we still endure a much colder fall and winter than Southern California can imagine..at least that’s what I’m hoping. In the midst of the leaves starting to change color and make its way to the ground, I’ve been starting to look for some cute coats and jackets. Granted, I already was provided a beautifully, classic London fog trench coat from my grandmother, I still like to look for other pieces that could compliment my wardrobe.

I’ve picked out a few that I’ve had my eye on. Each is unique in its own way and definitely provide alternate outlooks on ones style.

70’s SUEDE

I couldn’t possibly mention outwear without paying homage to one of my favorites, suede. In this case, it’s faux suede which is even better if you can find one that resembles the real thing. I absolutely love the rich tan color of this jacket. It gives you the vibe that a leather jacket would give, but in a softer, less harsh way. This particular jacket can be paired with a slimming pair of bell bottom denim in a dark wash, or even a faux leather mini skirt to edge it up a bit more. The safe route would be to pair something like this with black or cream colors, but let your imagination run wild and play with textures, patterns, and color. How yummy would this be with a deep burgundy shoe or a powder blue chambray top??

LEOPARD LOVIN’

If you ask my sister, she’ll always tell you that leopard print can definitely be considered a staple in one’s closet. As I had disagreed with her before, I’m starting to take back my initial thoughts. When it comes to accessories, the standard leopard print is okay to me. This depends on what it is though (I’ve been eyeing a pair of leopard print pointed toe d’Orsay shoes). When it comes to clothing, I’ve always felt that if it isn’t so bold and outrageous, it can be done tastefully without looking like you’re Snooki circa ’09. Reason why I love this coat? It’s not a traditional leopard, rather a snow leopard if you will. The muted grey tones would pair wonderfully with some rolled up, damaged boyfriend jeans for a casual day time look, or your best pair of high waist, black coated denim for a night time edge. And the possibilities are endless, look at this girl wearing it as a dress!

FEELING FURRY

I never wear real fur. Mostly because who can afford it? And because I love animals and there’s just so many darn alternatives that give you the same idea without harming little creatures. Faux fur feels like your wearing your favorite childhood teddy bear and letting it walk around with you giving you warm hugs as you go. Who doesn’t want that? We hear so many things about wool and mohair and how it keeps you so warm, but unless you can afford the good stuff, you’re stuck with itchy, scratchy jackets that leave you warm and with red patches on your body. No thanks. This particular jacket is warm and fuzzy, but still edgy given the contrast pleather cuffs. It reminds me of what I think Ted (that movie with the teddy bear and Mark Wahlberg) might be if he were a coat. Dress it up with a cute mini dress and tights or dress it down with some ripped denim, this pick will definitely keep you warm.

PLAID IS NOT JUST FOR SCHOOL GIRLS

I love plaid. I wish I had more of it in my closet. I just have a few plaid flannels hanging in there waiting for another close friend..a coat. We’ve seen this pattern time and time again which makes me think it will never die. And if it does for a moment, it will righteously make its comeback. It works because it’s not an in your face type of pattern. It’s never really done in obnoxious colors (Clueless was a make believe movie!) and just screams fall. The fact that it’s done in black and white and in a classic double breasted coat makes this one a good staple. I’d even like it if it were red or a forest green too.

CAPES..NOT JUST FOR SUPERHEROES

I’ve always liked the idea of a cape. There’s something so chic about it that you don’t even mind that it doesn’t necessarily have to keep you warm, it just looks good. I don’t own one yet as I’ve been nervous if I could rotate in my daily routine. As much as I love to dress up all the time, sometimes it doesn’t make sense to because I walk around everywhere (and get sweaty when it’s hot) or I’m doing work where I wouldn’t want to mess up my outfit. However, when I came across this beauty from Nasty Gal, I decided maybe it’s time to just dive right in. They’ve done paisley print right where it almost has this awesome baroque feel in warm colors that scream luxury. Pairing this a sheath dress and some OTK suede boots would do this number wonders! This is my only choice for an unconventional piece of outerwear for the winter as it most likely won’t keep me that warm..but like I said..it’s so fabulous so I don’t care.

All of my choices above are linked to take you directly to where you can buy them. They’re all under $200 with most of them being in the $100 range. Yes, it may seem pricey for some, but I wouldn’t expect to pay less for a better quality coat or jacket.

Let me know what you think and if you’re excited about the colder weather, I know I am!

xoxo

Easy Weekend Emsemble

When it comes to those two special days we call the “weekend”, there’s always 3 outfits you’re sure to be wearing.

1. Pajamas. It would be an inconceivable lie for anyone to say they don’t lounge around for less than 5 hours over the weekend in their pajamas. I’m even doing it as we speak (it’s my weekend)
2. Saturday night party outfit. That blissful evening where you know you can go out and not have anywhere to be the next day, which also means that if you happen to drink too much (21 and over), it’s not the end of the world if you wake up hungover looking like you’ve contracted the plague.
3. Easy, breezy weekend ensemble. You know, for those moments where you actually have to show your face with friends or family and look somewhat presentable without trying too hard.

An easy weekend ensemble can be achieved with a few simple pieces. A dress, denim jacket, hat or scarf, and some booties. If dresses aren’t your thing, pants can be substituted. The reason why this works?

It flatters everyone. No matter who wears this combination, or what body type they may have, what age they are, it still looks put together. Depending on the colors your wear, you can take on many different personas or styles.

If you’re more rocker, you can add some flair to the outfit by donning a denim jacket with studs or distressing.

If you find yourself to be a bit more girly and feminine, try wearing a dress with a beautiful floral print and heeled booties.

The options are endless and it becomes all to easy to build on or take off in the event of hot/cold weather, or needing to go out for a special occasion and trading the booties for a pair of killer heels.

I don’t associate with a particular trend or style either, but this is my version of an easy weekend ensemble that I wore during the day on a beautiful Saturday with my hubby.

The Details:
Booties- Lucky Brand (from Nordstrom)

Dress- Ambiance (boutique in SF) Similar Here

Denim Jacket- American Eagle

Wide Brim Hat-  ASOS

Necklace- Urban Outfitters (from 2 years ago) Lots of alternatives at House of Harlow

xoxo

Derma Roller Diary: Day 1

If you read my skin profile or watched my Everyday Makeup Routine video, you’ll know that my worst skin problem is something you can’t see, dry skin. In specific, a really dry, irritated forehead that I constantly itch no matter how much moisturizer I use!
It’s been an issue for almost a year now and I have no idea how it began or what to do. I don’t have the funds at the moment to see a Dermatologist..so for now, I am figuring it out and trying to fix my problem as best as I can.

If you haven’t heard of it already, the Derma Roller is this craze that has been going on for some time now. It’s a roller with a handle and on the roller part of it are little tiny needles. What it claims to do is help with dry skin, acne and acne scars, wrinkles, and plump your lips. How does all of that happen? Well they claim that when you roll over your skin with the little needles, small wounds occur. Not large enough to hurt you, but just large enough for your skin to naturally react and produce collagen to build it back up and heal itself. Collagen is typically injected into the skin with a needle to eliminate wrinkles and plump your lips up, so this is like the same things, only you’re at home and it’s your own body’s collagen.

All of it sounds well and good, but I am still a non believer until I try it myself. Being as desperate as I am, I thought, “what do I have to lose?”

Some common questions I had before starting this was as follows:

Does it hurt? Would I keep doing it?

I’m pretty good when it comes to enduring pain. Cuts and scrapes don’t bother me. Getting a tattoo was bothersome, but nothing I couldn’t handle. However, when I get a shot from the doctor’s office, I get queezy and skiddish. Using the Derma Roller was pretty painful and bothersome. I didn’t hate it enough to never do it again. I believe sometimes beauty is pain and you never got anywhere good without a little hard work and endurance. So yes, I would endure that little pain again.

How often do you do this?

I’ve read that you’re supposed to do this at night when you don’t plan on wearing any makeup and at least 4-5 times a week so see results. And you’re supposed to continuously do this regimen so it actually works.

How do you clean the Derma Roller?

Yes, so important!! You’re sticking little needles into your body, you need it to be as sterile and clean as possible!! I’ve read that you need to clean it each time before and after with soap and water, then spray with high percentage alcohol and then rinse with warm water. Before storing it away, you need to let it air dry so there’s no moisture trapped that can cause bacteria.

Does it damage your skin?

After the first time doing this, I only noticed that my face was red afterward. NO major damage or pain after the fact.

Does it really work?

This is what I intend to find out.

I intend to update you on any results I see, or don’t see. My biggest test will be to find out if my forehead doesn’t feel so dry and I stop itching it every single day. Once that happens, I will for sure know this thing works!

Check out the video diary below as well. I really want this to work and if it does, I want everyone to know about it. Follow along and maybe you’ll find out if this could be the solution to a skin problem you may have.

xoxo

Enhancing Your Natural Self

I love dabbling in other people’s makeup kits and bags. I can’t help but become giddy when I see something I haven’t tried before or something I wouldn’t typically wear on myself. I have no idea where all the excitement comes from and when it began. All I know is makeup really is a form of art on your face, you can become a different person for a moment and have the satisfaction of knowing you can go back to normal with the swipe of a makeup wipe.

However, on a day to day basis, I think looking like my natural self suffices. When I’m at my job, I want others to know that I am doing the job, I am getting things done, I will consistently try to be awesome everyday, not someone else or someone with identity issues. In order to be presentable and not look like a mess, I do think that I need to enhance some of the “problem areas” I think I may have. I only really do this so I don’t look tired or sick (as some people have told me when I go bare face..I didn’t disagree).

Take a look at the link below for my everyday makeup routine. It’s simple, everything stays put on my face and I feel naturally myself, and naturally beautiful.

xoxo

Beauty Profile: Brianne Heredia

I am by no means a makeup artist. I’m actually very mediocre when doing my own makeup. I usually stick to the same foundation, winged liner routine that I’ve grown accustomed to. However, my love of beauty, skin, nails, and hair products is a close second to my love for fashion.

My missions for the Beauty segment on my blog is to give others who may have the same skin conditions or even a similar skin color as me, a chance to discuss together what works and what doesn’t. Let’s get to my skin profile.

Brianne Mariko Heredia; age 23

Ethnicity: Mexican, Japanese

Skin Color: Deep, bronze tan in the summer, yellow undertones peak through a pasty tan in winter.

Problems: Sweats easily. Very dry forehead, normal skin on my cheeks and chin, oily on my nose (combination). Currently trying to find a solutions for my irritated forehead without going to a Dermatologist…yet. Dark undereye circles.

Assets: Thick eyebrows. Thick, wavy hair. Typically smooth skin.

Now, I by no means believe in plastic surgery or wearing a full face of makeup all the time. I’ve always thought that women and men should be able to change what they want to change, but never doubt their natural beauty. We’re all different in shape, size, skin, facial features, etc. Makeup is fun to play with and get creative with, just like fashion, but we shouldn’t use it as a mask to cover up our true selves.

Follow along as I go through some tips that I learn along the way and figure out how to stay healthy and radiant.

xoxo

You’ve Got a Friend in Me

Making friends is not easy as an adult, or young adult if you will. I suppose in the eyes of others, I can’t say much with only having moved to San Francisco 3 weeks ago, but this “making friends” thing has still got me stumped.

Background: Never have I EVER had a problem making friends, but that’s mostly because I’ve been put in situations where it was easy what with being forced to attend school for 12 years of my life with some of the same people, meeting friends through my already established friends, or meeting people at work. I was put in those situations and luckily I had things in common with those people. If they were more of an acquaintance and I wanted to make an effort in keeping them friends, I had an endless list of activities and events we could go do locally. Also, I can talk the ear off of just about anyone if given the opportunity to..I have some sort of OCD where I feel the need to constantly fill the silence (something I’ve been trying to figure our and improve on).

With that being said, moving to San Francisco has definitely intimidated me. I’ve never lived in a city as big as SF. Sure I’ve visited DTLA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, but I’ve never had to live and spend all of my time there. I could always go back to my little cocoon back in Torrance. Here, my apartment is WAY to small to stay cooped up in all day. The things that race through my mind is A.) I don’t have money to spend on a special class to meet people yet, B.) I haven’t met people to hang out with from work…yet. C.) The people I have met, don’t live in the city. (Shout out to the people we know in Berkeley!) Luckily my friend Kelley from back home lives in the city and we’ve hung out quite a few times, however, I don’t want to always bombard her and only her…I don’t want to weird people out that way either. And lastly D.) It’s not as easy meeting friends to hang out with as it is to meet potential dates (go ahead, tell me it’s not harder!).

So these are all my worries…do you have a longer list? What I’m going to try to do to meet people and be proactive in doing so is this:

1. Sign up for Meetup.com…I did this, but have yet to actually say ‘yes’ to an event. Plus I’m going to drag Alex with me.
2. Kelley agreed with me TODAY to join a beginners Hip Hop class..she too, has not been here long and doesn’t know many people. We can look like fools (or be awesome in the clubs) together.
3. I’ve made it a point to reach out to ASPCA to FINALLY volunteer at an animal shelter..hopefully the people I’ve emailed get back to me ASAP.
4. Lastly, I will try to just talk to people more. Try not to be so intimidated by people. If I feel intimidated, I swear I think I have RBF..yes, resting bitch face. It’s not pretty, although doesn’t cause wrinkles (AYO Kim Kardashian).

The reason why it’s important to have friends, especially when you don’t have much family nearby, is to be happy. Who doesn’t love sharing a laugh about something you have in common together? Who doesn’t love saying, “I need a girls shopping day because Alex doesn’t wanna go?” Or just having someone to talk to about everyday things and go bar hopping with? Sure, I have two best friends and close family members I have back home that I always confide in, laugh with, and try new things with…but, they’re not here everyday. I can’t do everyday things with them anymore. I can only plan visits and call or email every so often. Alex and I want to feel like we have a fulfilled life everyday here, too…not just what we had back at home.

We shall definitely see what will come about in the future. We have at least 4 years in the beautiful city of San Francisco and we can’t wait to see what happens next. We can only take it day by day.

xoxo

Outside Lands over Coachella

When I started this blog, I promised myself I was going to post at least once a week. Well, I definitely screwed that up already, but with good reason of course. You see, my two best friends and their boyfriends came up to SF to join Alex and I at Outside Lands this year. I absolutely had the best time with them, drinking, eating, laughing, walking everywhere, and just hanging out.

However, the reason I am posting today is to tell you my reasons for loving Outside Lands over Coachella times a million. And I am not biased in any way, and I have been to both within the last 3 years.

Coachella:

Yup. Just what you hear from your friends that have gone and come back saying, “Coachella was crazy!” It is crazy. There are tons of people that attend, way more than I think go to Outside Lands each year. Coachella is talked about way more in the media and among your peers.  Many more celebrities and individuals in the fashion and entertainment industries attend. There are many sponsored pool parties, after parties, and tents that give freebies. Sounds great, right? Sure. My issue with all the hype and popularity created with Coachella is the crowd. There are way too many people and it’s SO hot. We’re talking in the 100 degrees sometimes. Think about this, thousands of hot bodies (sweaty, not necessarily good-looking) running around, some dirty (the Coachella campers that don’t shower) running around and rubbing up on you in the enormous crowds that surround the stage, in the tents, and beer gardens. Some people wear deodorant, others don’t. Usually, I don’t have a problem with loads of people and getting a little “ratchet”, but there’s no way to get drunk enough for that. You’re not allowed to bring alcohol into the grounds, rightfully so. That’s fine..but not being able to drink my $12 beer for my favorite performer is just whack. Yes, I said whack. It’s crazy that you have to buy your drink in the designated beer gardens and you have to finish it before you exit.

My positives? It’s fun for me to see the fashion that people come up with. Many clothing companies make it a point to showcase the “Coachella style” that the celebrities rep and the everyday goers. The lineup is for the most part, very good. There’s a little taste of different genres that are sure to tickle everyone’s fancy. Last year, I was able to check off Lana Del Rey, MGMT, Muse, Ellie Goulding, and Pharell off my list. All of which I have been dying to see at least once in my lifetime. Each act has a great set and the fans show much support and energy, it’s absolutely insane.

Bottom line, Coachella, the fashion is great, the music is more than I could ask for, but my sweaty self cannot stand the heat and the mass amounts of people who’ve never heard of personal space or deodorant and that’s enough to keep me away. I literally get the crap kicked out of me from attending one night..and it lasts three.

Outside Lands:

Yes! Finally, a music festival I can go to that’s more cold and relaxed. I love the cold, however, Outside Lands this year in particular, was pretty warm during the day. Outside Lands has 4 different stages (not nearly as many as Coachella), but the performers play long sets. There aren’t as many head liners, but that’s okay with me. The ones that they do have are more my style. Kanye West, Mumford and Sons, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kaskade…yes please! Best part is, I could happily say I saw at least half the set of each, if not the whole thing. Many delicious food choices and beer and wine..everywhere! No security telling me I can’t bring my drink outside of Beer Lands or Wine Lands to see my favorite artist, I can literally walk around with it, shop, look at some art, see some magic, or laugh at some mediocre comedians.

Not as many celebrities or hype about Outside Lands, yet it’s still really popular among the Bay area and Southern California where I’m originally from. It’s easy to find a hotel or Air B&B if you’re not from the area and when the festival is over..you can find me getting a late night bite or heading out to the nearest bar for my kind of after party.

Bottom line, Outside Lands, I don’t have nearly enough to complain about, if at all. I did have the best experience with my friends in the past and this past weekend in your presence and will definitely be coming back. Plus, hats coats, and boots are more my style than cut offs and gladiators.

I’m making it a point to explore my horizons when it comes to music festivals. My next adventure may lead me to Lollapalooza, Jazz & Heritage Music festival, Ultra, and Bonnaroo.

Here are some pictures from this past weekend…xoxo