Vogue Controversy

On August 22nd, Vogue has made one of the biggest mistakes ever, it's a good thing they have a good Public Relations team. I have been a fan of Vogue, but why would you name a pair of earrings "Slave Earrings?" I understand that it was a glamorized version of the slave trade for the purpose of affirming a fashion trend.

Is it lost in translation like editor-in-chief Franca Sozaani says? Race relations in the United States are so controversial, I'm not too sure our European counterparts completely understand the idea of racial sensitivity in editorial.

Though the true reason for the publishing of Vogue's 'slave earrings' story is still unknown, I choose to give them a second chance. As controversial as the article was, can we completely negate the positive influence the franchise has given to minorities in the fashion world? For not only blacks, but also curvy women, Vogue Italia has served as a trailblazing high fashion media outlet giving voice and recognition to otherwise alienated and underserved groups. We have every right to be angry and demand the actions be taken to make sure these blunders aren't habitual.

But in the same token, realize that like humans, media outlets are complex creatures with many moving parts. They have successes and failures. Sometimes they please, and other times they offend. Does one negative story negate the existence of hundreds of positive ones? Just like many of us have done wrong and were graciously forgiven, shouldn't we give Vogue Italia the same chance?

Halia Duke Paoa Kahanamoku

Hau'oli la hanau Duke Paoa Kahanamoku!

Last week (when I started writing this blog) the Honolulu Star Advertiser recognized a remembrance of Duke Kahanamoku. I wanted to dedicate this post to him because he was an inspiring man. Not only did I learn about him in school, I learned about him in the surfing community, and fortunately I received a scholarship from the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation. This foundation only awards athletes that Duke enjoyed doing. It also "provides grants for island athletes and teams competing in those sports locally, nationally and internationally."

Duke Kahanamoku was the king of water sports in Hawaii. He was an Olympic swimmer, surfer and paddler. This "Father of Modern Surfing" has been an inspiration to millions of people. Each year on Waikiki beach the foundation holds "Duke's Ocean Fest." Last week was the 10 anniversary where more than 500 amateur and professional athletes ranging in all ages compete in eight events: swimming, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding.

Cheers to good ol' Duke!

Fashion Problems I Have

Being smaller framed and having a bigger bust is very unfortunate. It is very hard to dress cute or find cute dresses because my bust is too big and my waist is fairly skinny. Here are some two tips for all your women out there with this problem.

1. Get an over the shoulder dress (like the red one). It will show off your beautiful collar bone and there won't be so much attention to your bust. Also, if you're petite it will show off all your other curves better.

2. A scoop neck dress will also take away from having so much attention focused on your bust line. By adding a belt as shown in the picture it will accentuate your waist line. It helps because if your dress is just straight it may look like your pregnant or it could look like you're drowning in fabric.

Cheers to La Tasca!

This summer I went to Washington D.C to visit one of my best friends, Elizabeth. The first night I was there we ate at La Tasca, a Spanish Tapas Restaurant and Bar. Fortunately, we went there on the best night (thursday) because it was half off on a pitcher of your choice of Sangria. We chose the Sangria Rosada, "prepared with blush wine, grape juice, blueberries and strawberries." It was sooo good.

Not only was the Sangria good, the food was delicious as well. The tapa style was perfect for Elizabeth and I since it was just the two of us. We ate a little of everything: chicken, shrimp, beef, and of course some greens. I can't wait to go back to D.C. on a thursday night!

Happy hump day, now go get a glass of Sangria!

Be True to Who You Are: Jessie J

Today's Inspiration: Jessie J

This british-born bomb shell is not only a pop artist, she is truly a fashionista. Her bold bob haircut, fierce make-up and unique wardrobe makes her very memorable.

Jessie inspires the young and the old with her powerful lyrics. My favorite song from Jessie is Who You Are. Throughout the last three years my family has been going through a tough time, so when I heard Jessie sing she gave me hope. "Tears don't mean you're losing, everybody's bruising, just be true to who you are."

Click here to visit Jessie's Offical Website, where you can learn more about her and listen to her amazing lyrics.

Affordable and Glamorous

Are you a type of person that only buys your make-up from a department or beauty store? If so, wouldn't you want to explore more options? Especially with the economy being so tough on us?

Well, I'm the type of girl that loves to walk down the cosmetics isle when I go to Target or a CVS store. For the last couple years, if I want to buy an affordable lipstick, nail polish, or eyeshadow that won't break the bank I go to the N.Y.C. Cosmetics area.

What I like about N.Y.C. Cosmetics:
- Very affordable (usually under $2)
- Wide range of colors (If you want a hot pink lip just for one night, this is the cosmetic line to trust)
-Not only is it cheap, the quality is good.
- Nail polish dries quickly and lasts long.

So, if you need make-up for any occasion, whether it is for a workday and you want to play up your lips or cheeks, or if you are going out with your girlfriends for the night and want a smokey eye, go out there and buy N.Y.C Cosmetics. You will not be disappointed.

LC: Lauren Conrad

Today's fashion icon is Lauren Conrad:

This weekend I went to Kohls and bought some of her clothes. This is what inspired my wardrobe for today (as seen below). Her polka dot chiffon shorts and satin tank was so comfortable to wear at work, especially during the summer when it gets really hot outside. I wore a light cardigan to cover my shoulders and a cute pair of Libby Edelman heels to add a little spark to the outfit.

Not only is lauren known for her clothes, but her writing abilities and her "fresh" look. No wonder I idolize her.

I have been a fan of Lauren since her Laguna Beach days (tv show). She always had a beautiful personality, and she always wore such trendy, yet comfortable clothes. I hope one day I can be a fashionista just like her.

Cheers to Lauren!

Change Brings Opportunity

Today is the day I change and accept change.

I want to make my degree useful by becoming a better blogger and take on the challenge of finding a job before I graduate in December. They say change brings opportunities, I hope they are right.

I would like to use any inspiration from my everyday life and share it with you all, whomever may want to read this.