What I'm Loving for Fall!

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

The Casual/Go To Outfit: I'm LOVING leather this year as you'll see in these different looks, but dressing down leather in a Varsity Jacket style is definitely my kind of thing. I love my neutrals but adding a pop of color makes the outfit!

Red Leather Jacket: OBEY Propaganda

Black Leather Front Paneled Pants: H&M 

Red and Black Online Exclusive Zip-Up Sk8 Hi Slims: Vans  

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA

Let's Talk Makeup: Again, I gotta have my neutrals but for Fall, I really like to darken up my makeup in a Vampy way. For this particular shoot, I did do a little bit of a smokey eye, but not too dramatic because I wanted my eyes and lashes to really stand out. I'm not gonna lie, I went heavy on the foundation, concealer and contour just because I did want the "porcelain skin" look. I wanted my skin to look flawless so the rest of my makeup had a nice canvas to work with. 

Here's the Products I Used To Achieve This Look: Before I put ANYTHING on my face, I made sure to exfoliate with my St. Ives Apricot Scrub while I was in the shower followed by doing the same skincare routine after I get out of the shower which is, use my Proactive Face Toner, moisturize my face with the Avon Firming Moisturizer and also layered my Proactive face lotion over the Avon moisturizer just because my skin was looking a little dry that day.

Okay, now let's really get down to the makeup game!

So, after I had a clean canvas to work with I used my Revlon Beyond Natural Smoothing Primer, which honestly I'm not quite a fan of but I needed something to fill in my pores and have something for my foundation and concealer to stick onto without caking up. (I have yet to find a primer that is life changing.)

Foundation Time: I've used the same foundation for years now which is the Mac Studio Fix Fluid Foundation that I swear by. For all over my face I used NW13 because one, I am quite pale and I've found that the Mac Studio Fix Fluid Foundation does tend to oxidize a little bit on my skin so currently NW13 is my perfect match! I swear by this foundation because it literally covers all my face demons but can also be sheared out if you desire a less full coverage foundation. Luckily for this shoot, I only needed one pump for my whole face and stippled it on with my Sephora Duo Fiber Stippling Brush from the Luxe Brush Set that I've had for a couple of years and gave me a nice full coverage, airbrushed look that evened out my skin tone since I do have some hyper pigmentation from when I was a teenager. 

Contour and Highlighting Part One by Using Liquid and Cream Products: On a daily basis I don't contour quite as heavy as I did for this shoot. I wanted my face to be very chiseled out with sunken in and defined hollows of my cheeks to stay with the Vampy Edgy look. To countour, I used my Neutrogena Shine Control Liquid Makeup that's a good few shades darker than my actual skin color and the shade that I used was in Natural Beige and applied it on the hollows of my cheeks but stopped where it lined up vertical to the pupil of my eye.  I also applied it along my jaw line to define it and on my temples to warm up my complexion. Tip: Don't know what the hollows of your cheeks are? Make a fishy face and where your cheeks are sucked in, those are the hollows of your cheeks. It's that straight line from your temples to your lips!

After applying the foundation that I was using to contour, I blended it all out with a dense flat top Kabuki brush by Sephora so I could control where the product was being displaced and that gave me that nice straight line under my cheek bones without getting it all over the place. 

Highlighting: Highlighting isn't really my strong point in makeup, but I did really need to hide those darn eye bags so, I used my Avon Ideal Flawless Concealer in the color Fair to brighten up my tired eyes using the infamous Kim Kardashian upside down triangle technique to highlight. This concealer is great for under the eyes but needs to be set as soon as it's blended out because it does crease quickly, which I'm not a fan of. (I set it with my Rimmel Stay Matte Powder with a fluffy blending eyeshadow brush from Sephora.) I also hit the concealer in between my eyebrows and the middle of the forehead in an upside triangle yet again and blended it out. Now here comes the reason why I'm not a huge fan of this product, I applied this concealer down the bridge of my nose, blended it out and then when I got up close and personal to the mirror, I realized it caked up, accentuated my pores; making them look freaking huge, made my nose look dry and patchy and that's not cute. So, I wiped the makeup on my nose, reapplied the foundation on my nose and left it alone. 

Contouring, Highlighting and Setting My Face With Powder: This all seems like it's a lot but during shoots I need my foundation and every cream product to be locked into place so it's not sweating off or sliding off from being an oily monster. So, to set my whole entire face I used my trusty old Rimmel Stay Matte Powder which is definitely a cult favorite in the beauty community because it's cheap, you get a lot of product, it's finely milled, smooth and literally takes all the shine away and makes your foundation and concealer look flawless throughout the day! After setting my whole face, I go in with my Avon Mineralized Baked Bronzer, that got discontinued where I put the darker foundation was placed to warm up the look a little more. Since my face was so incredibly matte, I needed to put some more dimension back into my face, I used my Mac Mineralized Skinfinish in Lightscapade right on top of the highest points of my cheekbones that really accentuated my cheek bone structure. 

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLININKA

The Eyes: I wanted my eyes to be the focal point of this look along with the lips. But, to not be so overdone since I was rocking dark and bold lips. I kept the eyes neutral but in a sultry way and making the lashes be the statement of the eyes. I used an Avon Palette that I've had for ages because I can create so many looks with just this palette. So, I applied the dark brown in my crease as the transition color before I applied anything else. I then put a matte cream color all over the lid, hit my outer V with black and sat there blending to create a smokey effect and then to put more dimension into the eyes I used a dark burgundy color to intensify the very outer edge of my eye. It's pretty easy, I must say! Alright, liner time. I used my Maybelline Eye Studio a Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner in Blackest Black to create a dramatic cateye and lined my lower lash line to make the look darker 

Mascara, my lashes best friend. Before, I touched my eyelashes, I curled them because my lashes are super straight. When I was done curling my lashes, I went in and used generous amounts of my Smokey Extravagant Mascara by Makeup Forever in Black to fatten up my lashes to prep them for falsies! But for my lower lashes I hit them with Benefit's "They're Real?!" Mascara also in Black.

The Brow Game: My brow game needed to be on point since I had a ton going on with my eyes. To fill them in I just used my Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Duo in Brunette and set them in place with the Anastasia Clear Brow Gel.

I'm almost done, I swear! So, because I did fatten up my lashes, I wanted more volume and length so I applied the Ardell Fashion Lashes 113 in of course Black because I wanted DRAMA. 

The Lips: The lips complete this look and is super on trend! I used MAC's Lip Pencil in Nightmoth and MAC's Cyber Satin Finish Lipstick! AND WE'RE DONE :)

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

Outfit: Forever 21 Meshed Sleeved/Neckline Bodycon Dress (Unavailable)

OBEY Propaganda Quilted A Symmetrical Leather Jacket with Gold Accents

Gianni Bini Kyley Sandals (4 inch heel.)

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

Red Leather Jacket: OBEY Propaganda

Black Leather Front Paneled Pants: H&M 

Gianni Bini Kyley Sandals (4 inch heel.)

PHOTO CREDIT: NICK SOLONINKA 

Outfit: Forever 21 Meshed Sleeved/Neckline Bodycon Dress (Unavailable)

OBEY Propaganda Quilted A Symmetrical Leather Jacket with Gold Accents

Gianni Bini Kyley Sandals (4 inch heel.)

Don't forget to follow me on Social Media!

Instagram: katielafleurr

Twitter: kallmekatiee 

YouTube: ItsKatieLaFleur

Facebook: Katie Marie McBride

Style 344 Photo Shoot Sneak Peeks

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Hey loves! So I'm working on a ton of projects but wanted you to check out my latest shoot with Style344! Go to www.style344.blogspot.com

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Photo Credit: HENDO PHOTO

Weight

PHOTO CREDIT; GKR PHOTOGRAPHY

Weight, the most dreaded topic especially for girls. 

What I've noticed recently is "plus size" girls harping on girls like me by saying dudes go after them more because they're more desirable. But, when it comes down to it, it's personal preference whether a guy wants to be with a plus size girl or wants to be with a little girl. I don't think in the dating game it's a competition to see how many guys come up to you buying you drinks. 

Being as little as I am, (5'3 at 93lbs) is actually embarrassing. Under my circumstances though, I really can't put on weight and I don't believe in eating super unhealthy just to gain weight.

In my dating scene, my weight has never been an issue to any particular guy I've been with. I've never been told to gain or lose weight because quite frankly, I'm not here to impress anyone. I'm here to do me and if someone likes me physically and emotionally then great, of not? That's awesome too.

I think society and the way beauty is perceived is very messed up and confusing but why try to fit in? The way I see it, is that you should sustain a healthy weight for your personal body type and shape. You don't need unhealthy food to gain weight just like you don't need to starve yourself to lose weight because it is very unhealthy. Stop looking at the numbers and maybe take a look inside someone's soul, that goes for EVERYONE. Your weight, hip size, chest size is just a number, do what makes you feel confident as well as healthy. Girls, stop comparing yourself to other girls. All of us have confidence issues sometimes and telling girls that they're not desirable to men because they're not "plus size" hurts people whether you know it or not. Just because someone is plus size or skinny, doesn't mean one is more beautiful than the other. Beauty is truly on the inside, yes you can be physically beautiful as well but your heart and intentions is what guys are scoping you out for if they're interested. 

Plus size girls, skinny girls, and everything in between; Do you think you might get the male attention more by the way you dress or by acting promiscuous? If so, stop and think if you're attracting the right kind of guys. 

Like I said, everyone has their own preferences, not every guy or girl wants the same exact traits in someone because everyone has complete different ideas as to what they find attractive or not. 

Girl to Girl Talk:

Stop bringing up weight to compare yourself and boast yourself. Sometimes, things like that are very offensive and hurts other people's feelings. Just think that maybe because guys are all over you, other guys are all over someone else who is the exact opposite. Stop making yourself feel better by putting others down. 

XOXO,

Katie

Favorite Pictures From My Shoot With DivineSkye Photography

Here are just a few of my favorites from my photo shoot! 

DivineSkye Photography (Megan Lunsford) is one of my all time favorite people to shoot with, we get some amazing shots. None of these pictures would have been possible without DivineSkye Photography!

What I'm wearing:

Vans Creme Lace Dress

KIRRA Studded Leopard Cardigan from Pacsun

Forever 21 glitter tights

Vans Leopard Sk8 Hi Wedges

Check out my whole collection at:

http://divineskyephotography.pixieset.com/katie2014/

Check out the lovely Megan Lunsford's blog at:

http://megan-lunsford.squarespace.com

Sorry I haven't posted in awhile! Love you all and I hope you enjoy this short and sweet post for Random Wednesday! 

XOXO

Hair, Makeup and Outfit of the Night for the Opening Night of the Second 300 ❤️

Get Ready With Me To See That Special Someone And For The Opening Night of The Second 300! ❤️

Hair:

Let's talk about the hair first, since it's the easiest! To achieve my hair today, I washed my hair with the Clear Strong Length Shampoo, rinsed immediately to condition my hair with Clear's Intense Hydration Conditioner since I do have bleached hair and let it set in my hair until I was done with my shower routine and then completely rinsed it out with COOL water, leaving my hair silky, smooth and smelling great! After, I towel dried my hair for about ten minutes, let it down and then putting my CHI Silk Infusion on the ends of my hair and spraying all of my hair with my It's a 10 Spray! Letting all the products set in after doing my makeup, I blow dried my hair UPSIDE DOWN to get some extra volume. Here is my end result!

I love having texture to my hair so I don't brush it out too much and tease the crown of my head and front fringe so my hair doesn't fall completely flat! 

I don't take a ton of time on my hair, just because I'm lazy, but I do believe in putting great products in your hair to keep it healthy! 

Let's Talk Makeup, My Favorite Part of this look:

Today, my makeup was based around flawless looking skin, easy eye makeup and a bold lip!  

Flawless Looking Skin:

Now, today my skin was NOT in the best of shape, it's had it's better days let's put it that way, I have a small breakout along the lower right side of my cheek due to that awful time of the month! My main focus was to feel confident about my skin and not worry about the breakout as a focal point on my face because that ain't cute! To achieve better looking skin, I started off with my Clean and Clear Daily Moisturizer (it's not my favorite but it does the job,) I prepped my skin with my Garnier BB Skin Renew Cream in the color light/medium since I did have some redness and a breakout, it evened out my skin tone and covered up a little bit of the breakout, I then went in with my Holy Grail Foundation, MAC's Studio Fix Foundation in NW15 using one full pump on the back of my hand, then dotting the product all over my face and blending it with my Sephora Prestige Luxe Stippling Brush using dabbing motions to avoid sheering out the product and then going in with a tad bit of the foundation on my CLEAN finger and patting it over my breakout. After, I set my foundation in place with my current favorite setting powder, the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Translucent, I get oily on my nose and chin so I absolutely have to set my foundation. In general I love having a matte face because it photographs well and I don't like being an oil monster! When my whole face is set, I go in and countour the hollows of my cheeks, temples and jaw line and then my face looks flawless! 

Eyebrows and Eyes:

Besides having flawless looking skin, doing my eyebrows has to come in second to really transforming my face! For today, I kept my brows looking natural and filling them in with my Anastasia Brow Duo in Brunette and using the lighter side to fill in the body of the brow then using the darker side to fill the tails of my brows in and defining the bottom of the brows for a cleaner edge, then setting it with my Anastasia Brow Gel in Clear!

The eyes tonight, I kept very simple, I don't think guys like a dark intense smokey eye for just hanging out and going to a movie!

It's honestly so easy to achieve this look it hurts! All I did was use my Rimmel Stay Matte Powder on my eyelids to prevent getting oily and doing a basic winged eyeliner in black using my Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Eyeliner in Black on my top lid making sure the wing, lined up perfectly with my bottom lash line! After the gel liner was done, I switched to my trusty old Avon Waterproof Glimmer Stick in Blackest Black connecting the wing to my lash line, stopping halfway because black can really close my eyes off especially having almond shaped eyelids! After, I set all the black liner with a black eyeshadow from Cover Girl on a crappy ELF Eyeliner Brush just to have a little more precision versus a pencil shaped smudger! The eyeshadow also intensified and mattified the black liner for both the top and bottom liner, which is what I love! When all the blackness was all done and over with I really needed to brighten up the inner half of my eye because it was looking a little lifeless, I must say. So, I used a yellow based nude Avon Glimmer Stick on the inner part of my bottom lash line and on my inner tear duct as a base for where I wanted to my Victoria's Sevret white with gold shimmer in it so it wouldn't budge and it automatically brought some light into my eyes!

For my eyelashes, I didn't to anything crazy, I just curled them and put two coats of my Benefit's They're Real Mascara in Black on my top lashes and one coat of The Falsies Big Eyes in Blackest Black lower lash side for my bottom lashes and that's all! 

Lips: 

I absolutely LOVE a bold lip, but sometimes it can get a little tricky! To achieve the perfect dark lip, I started off by putting some very hydrating lip balm on as soon as I started my makeup so my lips would be nice and moisturized and prepped! After doing my whole face of makeup and hair, I always do my lips! After I knew I wouldn't be drinking anything or eating and felt like my lips were moisturized enough, I lined my lips with a Cover Girl lip liner in natural and then began to do my lips that took the longest out of this look because precision is key to a dark lip! For my dark lip, I chose my favorite dark plum color which is Mary Kay's True Dimensions Lipstick in Mystic Plum and I love it because it's dark, edgy and compliments my skin tone! Anyways, I always start off with using a brush when I'm working with a dark lip, it ensures precise lines and an even application, the brush I use is a lip brush I got in a random Victoria's Secret Brush Kit for Christmas a couple years ago, it's easy to work with and the brush tip is little and narrow which is perfect for me since I do have smaller lips! I first line my lips with my brush the desired color, go back in with the same brush to fill it in evenly and then use the tube for application to build up my desired opaqueness and show the true color! After, I'm at my desires look, I take a square of toilet paper split it in half if it's two plied, set it over my lips and use my Rimmel Stay Matte powder with my powder brush and dab it over my lips to ensure a longer wear! :) 

Beauty Pointer: From what I've heard, everything matte is totally on trend this Spring season! :)

Here's The Final Look ❤️ 

My Outfit I Wore For The Night:

Brandy Melville's FANCY AS FUCK Crop Tee

Victoria's Secret Basic Black Leggings

Gilly Hicks Burgundy Hoodie

Vans Leopard/Black Sk8Hi Wedges

Love you guys!

XOXO

My Modeling Story and Ultimate Dream

Photo Credit: DivineSkye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Taking the Leap:

My first actual big photo shoot that I had was back in 2011 with Sharon Arnoldi Photography and let me tell you, I've became a totally different person after this shoot. I began to accept myself for who I am, love myself and tell myself that I'm beautiful. 

Photo Credit: Sharon Arnoldi Photography

Photo Credit: Sharon Arnoldi Photography

Photo Credit: Sharon Arnoldi Photography 

This particular shoot, sparked my interest even more, raised my self esteem and began to really get into model for fun. 

DivineSkye Photography: 

I'm sure you've seen all my photo credits from DivineSkye Photography and after my very first photo shoot with Megan Lunsford (the owner) I had a turning point in my "career" as a model. After our first shoot, I knew that modeling as a career was my ultimate dream! 

Photo Credit: DivineSkye Photography

Photo Credit: DivineSkye Photography

Seriously, as soon as I saw these pictures, I was incredibly proud of myself for making the move to ask Megan if I could model for her and I couldn't thank her enough!

My Ultimate Dream:

I'm not going to lie, to be a model as my career is my biggest dream. Modeling, is one of the most amazing feelings ever. To be in front of a camera, wearing a cute outfit, having your make up and hair done is literally what makes me the happiest.

Ever since I can remember, I always loved being in front of a camera. My Mom took so many pictures of me and did pretty much on a daily basis to document my life. I loved posing, looking cute and when the film was developed and seeing pictures of me is one of my fondest memories. 

My ultimate and hands down the biggest dream of mine is to model for Vans, Pacsun and any big brand! Since I've been working for Vans, there are always gigantic new canvases of girls modeling the collection for the season and that's ultimately what I want in life. I want to be known as a Vans Girl and be on a canvas or magazine to see I've caught my dream. If I could do that for any brand, I'd be honored and even more honored if it was for Vans because I do work for them and seeing my face in Pacsun campaign or anything like that would be so awesome. Some day, I will achieve my dream. 

XOXO

Fashion Inspiration and Style 💋

Outfit Modeled: Creme Lace Dress from Vans, Leopard KIRRA cardigan from Pacsun, Black/Silver Tights from Forever 21, Black Glitter Belt from Forever 21, Bunny Hat used as a scarf is from Megan Lunsford's Wardrobe and Leopard/Black Sk8Hi Wedges from Vans

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography 

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Outfit Shown: Elephant Tanktop from Brandy Melville, Military Inspired coat from Abercrombie&Fitch, White Super Skinny Jeans from Hollister and a Brown Braided Leather Belt from Abercrombie and Fitch

 

Outfit Shown: White Dress from Hollister and Navy Authentic Lo Pros from Vans

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Finding Inspiration: 

For me personally, finding fashion inspiration isn't hard at all. I look to what others are wearing everywhere, nature, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube, Teen Vogue Magazines, Bloggers and my own Vans store that I work at.

In my world, I'm exposed to all things fashion. Working for Vans, I get to see the look books for each season before a collection is launched and I'm inspired by all of it to take the looks I love and incorporate it into what I wear on a daily basis. Now, I'm the type of person who will buy a shirt, cut it up into a crop tanktop and distress it. 

I know for some people, looking for fashion inspiration isn't the easiest to find. I suggest if you're having a hard time or not really sure about fashion just walk around the mall, look at their mannequins and what they're styled in and decide whether it's something you like or dislike! It's okay to not know anything about fashion but if you're looking to be more stylish, you can also go to a friend who might be into fashion and try some of her clothes on to get an idea of what you like and are comfortable in! 

Personal Style:

I love the whole "Rock n' Roll," grungy, dark, edgy look probably 95% of the time. I love my blacks what can I say?! Though, my wardrobe is very dark, I like to add jewelry for just a pop to make an outfit interesting. I love pairing gold statement necklaces with solid black pieces to add some color and trend to an outfit. 

Outfit Shown: Dark Rinse Super Skinny Jeans from Hollister, Dark Brown Leather Belt from American Eagle, Black V-Neck from Forever 21, Black Cotton Blazer from Macy's, Gold and Black Tribal Inspired Necklace from Forever 21 and the Black and Gold Braided Headband is from Forever 21

See how the gold makes it more interesting?! 

I have another side to my wardrobe, it's not all black, edgy and hardcore, it's really actually the EXACT OPPOSITE! I'm not gonna lie, I love me some Abercrombie&Fitch and Hollister. I love the beachy laid back girly style and their clothes always fit me perfectly since I am quite little to say the least! I'm not gonna lie, I love all of their dresses, pants, t-shirts, fragrance and everything because it is very feminine and that's what I love about those brands.

Outfit: Dark Rince Super Skinny Jeans from Hollister, Navy T-Shirt from Abercrombie, Brown Leather Belt from American Eagle and I don't know where this Brown Faux Leather Jacket is from :P

Fashion Idol: 

Let's talk about her outfit? Can we say perfect?! 

Hanna Beth is literally like my fashion idol, her look is dark, grungy, laid back, edgy and totally Rock n' Roll but she can also be very boho, classic and girly, that's what I love about her! I've looked to her as a role model as well as fashion idol for about 7 years and she has always stayed true to her personal style. She takes things that she loves and shows who she is as a person through her wardrobe and that's something I try to achieve! 

Advice: Your personal style doesn't have to be one specific type, mixing and matching is fun and adds uniqueness to you! Style, is showing who you are through your clothes, so make what inspires you, your own! Don't copy everything you see, just because you feel like you have to be wearing what's on the mannequins to be "cool." Just be you and wear what you love! 

XOXO 

My Vans Story ❤️

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Location: Manitou Skate Park in Colorado Springs Colorado

Outfit: Creme Lace Dress from Vans, Black Glitter Belt from Forever 21, Studded Leopard Cardigan by KIRRA from Pacsun, Rabbit Spirithood prop borrowed from Megan Lunsford, Black Glitter Striped pantyhose from Forever 21 and Leopard/Black Sk8Hi Wedges from Vans

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Location: Cheyenne Mountain 

Outfit: Studded Denim and Chiffon High-Low Dress from Macys, Red Belt from Target and Leopard/Black Sk8Hi Wedges from Vans

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Photographer: Megan Lunsford

Location: Manitou Skate Park in Colorado Springs Colorado

Outfit: Creme Lace Dress from Vans, Black Glitter Belt from Forever 21, Studded Leopard Cardigan by KIRRA from Pacsun, Rabbit Spirithood prop borrowed from Megan Lunsford, Black Glitter Striped pantyhose from Forever 21 and Leopard/Black Sk8Hi Wedges from Vans

You can find Megan Lunsford at:

megan-lunsford.squarespace.com 

www.facebook.com/DivineSkye

P.S: She's AWESOME! 

"Story of my Sole": 

Vans has always been a huge part of my life, ever since I was a toddler. I remember my mom buying my light blue denim authentic Vans to wear with all of my play clothes. I distinctly remember having the denim authentics, white authentics and navy blue authentics because back then, Vans didn't have the awesome glittery ones like they do today (so jealous.) Even throughout Preschool, Kindergarten and the early years of Elementary School, I had Vans! See, my Dad used to skate board back in the 80's and saved his old board for me to ride when I got old enough which was about 6 years old. I looked really cool out where our cement walkway is up to our stairs and riding back and forth for hours! Unfortunately, I never did any more skateboarding because well I'm really clumsy, but later music became a huge part of my life and I started going to the Vans Warped Tour the summer going into 8th Grade and haven't missed a year since and is what I always look forward too during the summer! Vans, have always been a staple in my wardrobe and I've really had the Vans lifestyle all my life. I'm different, eclectic, strange and most of all, an individual which is what Vans is known for as a brand and lifestyle. I believe the only year I didn't wear Vans was in the Third Grade because, Etnies were all the rage back then, but when I got into Fourth Grade, I told my Mom that I wanted Vans and that's what I got! I remember they were Pink and White Old Skools with satin pink laces and they were so COOL! Ever since then, Vans have always been in my wardrobe every single year. I have some Authentics that are limited edition and some that aren't, a few pairs of limited edition Classic Slip Ons, a ton (I mean a ton) of Authentic Lo Pros, lots of Hadleys, a pair of Sk8Hi Wedges that are always shown in my pictures, a couple pairs of Mohikans from the Surf Collection, and my newest edition, the Sk8Hi Slims in (Leather) Black/True White. I can definitely say that I have a problem with shoes. 

My Life Changing Experience! 

When I was fresh out of High School in 2012, I had been looking for a job literally EVERYWHERE in Colorado Springs and one magical day, I was in buying shoes at Vans (of course) and the Assistant Manager told me that I should apply because they were hiring. As soon as I got home I submitted my resumé and was hoping so bad that I would have the opportunity to interview as a sales associate. I was that annoying kid that would call and follow up to see if Vans was hiring at the time and finally one day in July, I got a call asking if I would be interested in interviewing with a few other people and I quickly, with no thought or anything said "Oh my gosh! Yes!" A few days later I came in to interview with about 12 other people and the whole time I was thinking to myself "Uhh yeah, all these kids have way cooler stories than me, I'm just some average girl who likes fashion, is in to music, always attends Warped Tour, I can't skate, I don't have any work experience and I haven't overcome being paralyzed, so I'm definitely not getting hired here." When I got home from my interview that day, I was really discouraged and was being pretty hard on myself as I always am. Two days later, I got a call saying I was hired and that's when my life completely changed. When I first started working for Vans, I was literally the most quiet, shy, insecure and awkward girl ever. I was painfully shy throughout my life since I was a gymnast and didn't have a social life at all. It was so hard for me to go up and talk to customers without being incredibly awkward. But after about a month, something really changed inside of me. I became more confident in myself, I liked what I saw in the mirror, I learned that people want to actually talk to me for who I am as an individual which made it so much easier to go up and talk to people about their day and everything in between. 

A Vans Romance Story?

What's a life changing story without a little bit of romance right? Let me take you back to the first time I ever had a shift at Vans, there was this guy working with me, was super nice, talked to me and really helped me out. After that, I didn't see him for a few weeks and then I worked with him again for a couple hours and he was still as cute and nice as I remembered! So, he asked if I wanted one of his shifts and of course I said yes because I loved working there. But then, something inside of me told me I should text him and as creepy as I am, I got his number from the employee phone book and texted with "Hey thanks for giving me your shift!" Super weird, you don't have to tell me twice, but he asked if I wanted to hangout that next day and being the girl that I am, I said yes! Later I found out he thought I was pretty and ever since then and after a first kiss, I've always gotten "butterflies." I know, I know, I'm lame. We hangout whenever our schedules are clear and every time I'm with him, the more I grow feelings towards this person and I can't tell you why. While I was living in Denver working at another Vans store, there honestly wasn't a day where I didn't think of him and wanted to be with him, but this is when I completely screwed up, got arrogant, cocky, big headed, turned into the biggest bitch and thought I was hott shit because I was kind of with someone else. It is the past but literally if I could go back in time I wouldn't of been so selfish and stayed where I was in life. So, things went sour in Denver and he was literally the only person I wanted to be with. Of course there was a time period where he wasn't a fan of me, at all to say the least  and I don't blame him. But, when I moved back where I am now, we started to talk and hangout again and I realized that when I'm with him, that's where home is and there's no place else I'd rather be. He is special person and really the only person I have truly cared about and it's crazy to think that we met at Vans, happen to both work there at the same store, love the brand and live the lifestyle. I feel like it's kind of like a romance movie without the makeout scenes in the rain! Haha 😉

My Realizations: 

I really was shown the type of person I am and what my personality is really like from the almost two years I've been with Vans. I've become to understand myself as a person, have come out of my shell and blossomed into the person I want to be. If it wasn't for Vans I'd probably still be that quiet shy girl with no personality and for that, I'm forever grateful for having the opportunity I have with this company. If it wasn't for my family at Vans supporting me, cheering me on and being there when I'm at rock bottom I don't know where I'd be. From fashion, to music, to getting to know myself as an individual, to experiencing feelings I've never had, Vans is where my heart is and is my passion. ❤️

I have had a ton of questions as to why I always rep Vans and I hope this all answers your guys' questions from head to toe! 

XOXO

Rock What You Love and Work it!

Outfit: Vans High Low Hemmed Skirt in Heather (now unavailable in retail Vans stores) Brandy Melville "Fancy as Fuck" Crop T-Shirt, Brandy Melville "Bitch Don't Kill my Vibe" Beanie (from www.brandymelville.com) and Vans Authentic Lo Pros Black/Black (cropped out, but are available online and in retail Vans stores) 

Brandy Melville's "Bitch Don't Kill my Vibe" tank (from www.brandymelville.com) 

Brandy Melville's "Fancy as Fuck" Crop T-Shirt and "Bitch Don't Kill my Vibe" Beanie (all from www.brandymelville.com)

I'm not gonna lie, some of my wardrobe can be very controversial as to what is "acceptable" and what is not. I have a beanie and tanktop from Brandy Melville that says "Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe" and a crop t-shirt from Brandy Melville that says "Fancy as Fuck" and quite honestly I am in love with all of those pieces in my wardrobe. 

I really don't care what parents say or what looks I get when I wear certain things. If you're a parent and telling your younger child to never wear a certain shirt, good for you for doing your job as a parent. The thing is, is that I'm not a parent, I am an adult. I make my own decisions, I love fashion, I love expressing myself and though I like to set good examples for younger girls, I need to be me and not conform into a person that I'm not, simply because others disagree with something as basic as a T-shirt. It's part of me, it's expressing myself. "Bitch Don't Kill My Vibe" by Kendrick Lamar is literally one of my favorite songs and Brandy Melville happens to be one of my all time favorite brands, so why wouldn't I wear something that I love because it's not "appropriate" to a conservative crowd?

I believe if you really love an article of clothing or really anything, rock it! It takes confidence to express yourself. At first you might feel a little uncomfortable with all the dirty looks you're getting from parents but seriously, who cares what they think. If you feel beautiful, powerful and confident in what you're wearing, then WEAR IT.

BUT, here's the catch...(there's always a catch,) 😉 If you're in High School you do have to follow the dress code, the dress code rules are set in place so what you're wearing doesn't become a distraction, which in my opinion is fair. School is not a fashion show, you're there to learn, not to walk a runway. So, for you younger ladies in Middle School and High School you all need to abide by the rules, unless you want to wear an ugly bright orange shirt that looks like you're going to jail for the whole school to see and mock you. (That's how it was when I was in High School.) 

For the ladies who have jobs and need to be business professional, sorry to say, but you have to follow your work places rules too, I abide by the dress code at Vans and I'm okay with that and it's nothing to protest against. Plus for me, I love everything I own from Vans because let's get real, it's totally my style. 

If I'm out and about, hanging out with friends, going to dinner, shopping, running errands or at a place where there is not a certain dress code, I whip out my favorite clothes and wear them and so should you! If you spend money on clothes that you love, wear them and not waste your money! I don't have one thing that I love that I don't wear, I believe in wearing what I own and getting my use out of them. Seriously, just love what you own, rock what you're wearing and feel good about yourself, whether you feel powerful, pretty, innocent or even a "Bad Bitch" then wear it, have no regrets and be confident because you're one of a kind!

Tip: If you want to be a little more discrete about your shirt, wear a cardigan over it! When I'm out running errands and want to look a little more presentable and put together, I throw on a solid cream cardigan from Abercrombie and Fitch to tone down the boldness of the shirt!

Don't forget to be smart about where you're wearing certain things, but don't forget to WORK IT HONEY 😉❤️

XOXO

50 Things About Me :)

Photo Credit: Divineskye Photography

Location: Red Rocks Open Space

Outfit: Cream Lace Dress from Vans, pantyhose from Forever 21, Leopard Cardigan from Pacsun, Leopard Sk8Hi Wedges from Vans, Bunny Hat from Megan Lunsford, Belt from Forever 21

50 Things About Me! 

1.) My full name is Kaitlin Marie McBride

2.) I was born on September 11, 1994

3.) I am a Colorado native

4.) I love video games

5.) I am a musician and play 6 different instruments. 

6.) I was adopted into a family at 9 days old

7.) My Vietnamese name is Tahn Mae Do, it means "Brilliant Flower" 

8.) I was in marching band all through out High School

9.) I'm a germaphobe

10.) My favorite color is pink if you couldn't tell :)

11.) I love that I can street race and shift effortlessly without getting nervous

12.) I get my adrenaline rush from drifting and being irresponsible 

13.) Working on cars is one of my hobbies 

14.) I never got pulled over or have gotten a ticket in my '05 Hyundai Elantra GT Sedan that was modified 

15.) I swear that cops are out to get me in my '09 Hyundai Sonata

16.) My next car is a matte black '06 STI

17.) I get road rage. 

18.) I've liked the same person for almost 2 years

19.) I love Vans

20.) I'm a hopeless romantic but also jaded

21.) I know that I want to be in the beauty, fashion and social media industry

22.) I love modeling

23.) I was told I was 100% Vietnamese, I don't know if I believe that

24.) I'm extremely goofy and weird 

25.) I always voice my opinions and don't fear to at all

26.) I'm really loud and obnoxious

27.) I usually order a Chai Cream Frappachino at Starbucks

28.) Spring is my favorite season

29.) I love to make people feel awkward to laugh at their reaction 

30.) When I think something is funny, I laugh uncontrollably for a very long time

31.) I like to pull pranks, I'm the ultimate prankster

32.) Making dry ice bombs is the best

33.) I love four wheeling with my cousins in Kansas

34.) I absolutely love blogging because it gives me a since of freedom to express myself fully

35.) I have the mouth of a sailor 

36.) I know if there is ever a zombie apocalypse, I will not survive

37.) I think I'm funny at times

38.) I love movies

39.) My diet is mostly vegetarian but I do not consider myself a vegetarian

40.) Working out is one way I release anger and stress

41.) I was raised in a church and now that I'm older I have become agnostic

42.) I love working for Vans

43.) I love to talk, I never shut up

44.) My gold iPhone 5S is awesome 

45.) A few of my favorite bands and artists are A Day to Remember, Pierce the Veil, Mayday Parade, I See Stars, Sleeping With Sirens, There For Tomorrow, All Time Low, The Word Alive, A Skylit Drive, Bobby Darin, Nat "King" Cole, Elvis Presley, Kanye West and Drake. 

46.) I love classical music

47.) I'm passionate about fashion

48.) I want to be a good role model for my younger audience 

49.) I love to make a positive impact on people and helping others 

50.) I absolutely love life 

Vans Sk8Hi Slims in (Leather) Black/True White Review

Vans Sk8Hi Slims in (Leather) Black/True White 

Retail Price:~$75.00

I don't even know where to start with these shoes! I absolutely adore them and are definitely going to be my new staple shoes for the rest of Winter, Spring and Summer! These are the Vans Sk8Hi Slims in (Leather) Black/True White and this is my review! As some of you might know, I work for Vans but this review on these are 100% honest! 

The Back Story: Through the almost two years I have been with Vans, I've really seen how much their fashion for women has become more on trend and stylish with their apparel besides just Logo T-Shirts, Zip-Up Hoodies, a few cute pieces and just regular skinny jeans! Needless to say this Spring collection doesn't have one thing I dislike! This collection is edgy, just the way I like it! When I saw that we had all these new things, I got very excited, let's just say that! With this 2014 Spring Collection these leather Sk8Hi Slims took me by surprise and I decided to pick these bad boys up the other day because I HAD to have them!

My Review: These Sk8Hi Slims I feel like really capture my entire style which is edgy, authentic, classic, girly and definitely eclectic! It's a ton of different styles all into one, it's a very weird unpredictable combo but, somehow it all pairs great together! I love how the leather on these Sk8Hi Slims can bring edginess to an outfit without being too masculine or chunky. With my feet, shoes can easily make it break an outfit and will make my feet look chunky and disproportionate to my body. I am petite and wear either a 5-5.5 depending on the brand. With Vans, my definite size is a womens 5 since I have narrow feet and Vans do run about a half size bigger in comparison to a "True to Size" shoe. So, let's say I put an Authentic on, for me personally, the shoe will look very strange because of the thicker, chunky sole of the shoe. With these Sk8Hi Slims, I had my doubts about them looking good on me since they do have a thicker sole compared to what I normally wear which are the Authentic Lo Pros or Hadleys! But, to a pleasant surprise these Slims don't make me look disproportionate or make my feet look huge! These shoes have such great quality to them and are totally COMFORTABLE, I can't stress those two things enough! The leather is soft yet sturdy and not flimsy which is a must in my wardrobe since I am out doors, hiking up to bike parks tracking through mud sometimes! These shoes were made to be stylish, versatile and ready to take on any kind of situation since they do have the Waffle Grip on the bottom of the shoe which is great when you need traction! Yesterday, when I wore them to the bike park I tracked through the mud, when I got home I wiped them off with a damp paper towel and they totally look like I haven't wore them which is the best! I love everything about these shoes because they are handmade, great quality, affordable, edgy, stylish, totally comfortable and won't get trashed compared to some of my canvas shoes. If any of you stop at a Vans store and are wanting something a little edgy, I definitely recommend giving these a shot, you might not like them on display, but once you put them on, it's magic! 

P.S: Sorry for not posting in awhile! I've been super busy working on new content! Tell me what you guys want to see me review next! 

XOXO