Four Beauty Instagram Accounts I Admire

I absolutely love make up and beauty - am I good at doing my make up? Absolutely not. While there is hundreds of huge make up beauty gurus, who are kicking butt and taking names in the beauty influence game, I m always more amazed and impressed by up and coming beauty experts. Here is five kick ass boss babes who's looks I admire - check them out - and if you think they are awesome, follow them!

Symphony Monelle Beauty @symphonicchaos

Makeup by rocky @muarocky 

Sam's Makeup World @samm_ll

True Beauty Makeup Artistry @truebeautymakeupartistry

What do you guys think? Who inspires you?

#FollowFriday

#FollowFriday is fast becoming my one of my favourite segments on Letters to LA LA Land. I love being able to share amazing people and their blogs that inspire me.
Here is this weeks #FollowFriday:

1) Carrie Bradshaw Lied

2) Mash Elle

3) The Mop Top

4) Marie's Bazaar

Have you read any of these blogs? How amazing are they?

Stop by my instagram and twitter to find all four linked bloggers social media accounts.

Have a wonderful weekend.

(All images are owned by their respective blog/bloggers and should not be distributed without explicit permission!)

#FollowFriday

I read blogs instead of newspaper; there are countless people who make this whole thing look easy. I find inspiration in each blog I read and live vicariously though some. Here are four bloggers to check out this week:

1) Elements of Ellis
Kacie is a California life and style blogger. Her style is elegant and fun. The inspiration behind her blog is so cute... and I think she accomplished that with her posts. 

2) Style Cusp

Marrisa is a Connecticut based style blogger. Marrisa's outfits are always so elegant and her blog photos (and isnta) are stunning.

3) Nany's Klozet

Style blog that I check out daily. Her style is edgy and bold; her photos are awesome and she write her blog in two languages! How amazing is that?

4) La Petite Noob
Joelle is a Canadian blogger based out of Toronto. Her style is feminine and simple, and she always looks so well put together. Her blog cover anything from fashion, travel and beauty.

Have you read any of these blogs? How awesome are they?

Stop by my instagram and twitter to find all four linked bloggers social media accounts.

Have a wonderful weekend.

(All images are owned by their respective blog/bloggers and should not be distributed without explicit permission!)

#FollowFriday

We love sharing our favourite blogs and social media feeds. On this weeks #FollowFriday

1) In A Haute Minute

Toronto based fashion blogger with great style. Katie's style is trendy and fun.

2) Raindrops of Sapphire
Lorna's fashion blog just celebrated 6 years in the blogoverse. Her style and blog have evolved over the years, you should definitely check it out.

3) With Justine
Justine's blog is a fun personal blog of her adventures, renovations and her Insta feed is breathtaking.

4) Blank Itinerary  
Paola's style and travel pictures are so dreamy and interesting. She is one of my favourite fashion bloggers, because of her feminine and elegant style.

Have you read any of these blogs? How awesome are they?

Stop by my instagram and twitter to find all four linked bloggers social media accounts.

Have a wonderful weekend.

(All images are owned by their respective blog/bloggers and should not be distributed without explicit permission!)

#FollowFriday

Blogging is fun, interesting and always evolving. I love reading blogs and checking out fun social media pages. This kicks off a weekly event hosted at the Letters to LA LA Land sharing some of our favorite blogs and social media accounts. This is where we will recommend blogs to checkout and social media account follow.  

Let us know what you think xo.

Here are four blogs we are loving this week:

1) Lipgloss and Lace 
Lipgloss and Lace is an awesome style blog. Shauna's outfits are always so put together and she is always smiling in her stunning blog photos.

2)What Would V Wear 
Vanessa is wonderful and one of the sweetest people I got to know through blogging. Her blog is stylish and elegant and is a true extension of Vanessa. She is also a talented designer. You can check out some of her stuff here.

3) Cup of Jo
Cup of Jo is one of my favorite life and style blogs. I read it daily (like a newspaper). She covers anything from fashion to food to motherhood to travel.

4) Over My Styled Body
OMSB is one of my favorite Edmonton fashion blogs. Her style is edgy and always so fun.

Have you read any of these blogs? How awesome are they?

Stop by my instagram and twitter to find all four linked bloggers social media accounts.

Have a wonderful weekend.

(All images are owned by their respective blog/bloggers and should not be distributed without explicit permission!)

Get To Know: Zahra, Letters to LA LA Land Contributor

Today, its my pleasure to introduce Letters to LA LA Land contributor Zahra. Zahra is a Commercial Credit Analyst by day and TV and movie expert by night. We met when she was hired to the same branch I was working at. Frist thing she ever said to me was a comment about my butt while we were standing by the printer. 

Over time, our sarcastic hilarious politically heated comments and crazy adventures turned into friendship. Sometimes I strongly believe that people who listen to our conversations must think we are completely crazy... like that one time we hashed out a plan how to become PIMPS and take our operation internationally; all while at the gym.

What is your theme song? 

Enrique Iglesias - Bailando

What is a quote you live by? 

“An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind” Ghandi

What is your beauty (fashion) uniform? 

Jersey cotton dress and nylons

What is one thing you don’t leave the house without? 

Concealer

If you could spend a day with anyone, who would it be and why? 

Inara my niece because she is hilarious.

If you could tell one thing to 18 year old self, what would it be? 

Don’t give a fuck what people say or think, just do you.

What is your favorite:

Movie: Ferris Bullers Day Off

Travel destination: Greece

Beauty product:  concealer

Fashion item: scarves

You can stop by and say hi to Zahra on Instagrm, or by e-mail.

FABULOUS & FEARLESS FEATURE

Today, I am talking to wonderful Maddy from Cassidylou(dot)com. She is a  relatively new blogger with great style and a very inspiring story behind her blog name.  Hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did. 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Full name = Madeline, nickname = Maddy

Currently living in Grand Rapids, MI, but originally from Toledo, OH

Favorite dessert = chocolate chip banana bread

Job = Digital Marketing

Guilty pleasure = One Direction music videos

I teach SPINNING classes

I race triathlons

Go to meal = filet mignon!

I was a child model for one photo shoot!

How would you best describe your own personal style?

I like to take risks with funky pieces, such as sequin pants, faux fur, blazer capes, leather, neon and mixing prints. None of these seem that crazy to a fashion blogger, but I have gotten some pretty strange looks in Grand Rapids, MI.I stick with classic cuts, because I find them most flattering, but I love to play around with color, print and fabric. My style reflects my mood, which can change daily. Some days it will be a dress, heels + pearls, other days ripped jeans, slip on sneakers + a leather jacket.

Do you think there is a difference between “fashion” and “style”?

I believe there is a HUGE difference between “fashion” and “style.” Fashion, to me, is what is popular or trending in the market currently, whether it be pastels, feathers, studs, etc. Style is how someone chooses to express their personality and emotions

Do you stick to conventional fashion or like to try and be original?

I like to try to add my own twist to change conventional to original. I know what shapes and silhouettes work for me, so I stick to those but add in fun elements such as print and texture. I’m not afraid to mix completely opposite pieces together.

What advice could you give to someone aspiring to get into blogging?

Even though I have been blogging for a year and a half I still feel like a newbie most of the time! I would tell them to be prepared to devote a good amount of time to their blog and network, network, network!

Your blog name has an inspiring story, can you tell me more about that?

Of course! My grandma passed in March 2013 and she and I were very close. Part of our relationship revolved around fashion. She helped me sew my own skirts and tote bags, and sewed almost all her own clothing. I considered her to be a close friend and we always had a special bond. When I decided to start blogging in July of that year, I wanted to choose a name that had meaning but was unique. Her last name was Cassidy, and my mom (her daughter) always called her Martha Lou; which is how I created Cassidy Lou.

What is your favorite thing about your chosen career? Why?

Currently I work for a company doing digital marketing and my favorite part is probably the people I work with

Is there a person that is an inspiration to you? Why?

My parents. Completely cliché but they truly are amazing, selfless, hilarious and generous people. Ask anyone.

What advice could you give to someone who wants to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin?

You are in control of your happiness.

What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. I struggle with comparing myself to others in both the blog world and real life. Everyone has their successes and failures at different times in their life and you don’t need to be on anyone’s timeline but yours!

If you didn’t need to work for income, what would you do with your time?

I would travel extensively and be a stylist (although I am in the process of starting my own styling company…more to come later.)

If you met a Genie who offered you three wishes, what would you wish for?

Such a tough question! I would wish for enough money to my parents to finish paying for my siblings college tuition and retire now and travel wherever they want .I would wish for the time and funds for me to take the next few years and travel And this isn’t possible, but I would wish for an end to the violence all over the world. It is something that breaks my heart

THANK YOU so much for sharing your answers with me and Letters to LALA land readers.

You can stay in touch with Maddy and Cassidy lou (dot) com via Instagram and Facebook 

*all images of provided by Cassidylou.com and Madeline

FABULOUS & FEARLESS FEATURE

Today, I would love to introduce Lyndsay, a Canadian blogger and creative mind behind Over My Styled Body. She is very talented fashionista from Edmonton. Her unique and cutting edge style is amazing and her Instagram game in on point. I actually first met Lyndsay when her and my sister played volleyball for their University but then years later found her blog (small world right?). Hope you enjoy getting to know Lyndsay as much as I did.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? 

My name is Lyndsey Forest and I'm the creative mind behind the fashion and lifestyle blog, Over My Styled Body. I recently said goodbye to my home in the burbs (Sherwood Park) as we just bought our first home in the big city of YEG! So when I'm not having fun decorating our new place I spend a lot of my working on my blog, brainstorming, and 'instagramming'. Yes, I am an instagram addict and not even ashamed to admit it!

Fashion has always been a driving force in my life. My mom always tells me how picky I was as a little girl and wouldn't leave the house if my outfit wasn't just right. Knowing the direction I wanted to take, I started out working in small boutiques and soaked up as much knowledge as I could about the fashion industry. I then went on to get my business degree and have been working as a visual merchandiser ever since graduating.

When instagram came around I started using the app to share pictures of my ootd's and fashion inspiration. I slowly started gaining a following and had people ask me all the time if I had a blog. It was from there that Over My Styled Body was born!

I started blogging as merely a hobby but it hasn't been until the last year or so that I could see myself doing this as a career. I love the creative outlet it offers and I always have so much fun putting looks together and sharing them with the fashion community!

How would you best describe your own personal style?

To be honest, I can't really pin point what my style would be as it all depends on the day and changes like the wind! But I think that's kind of a good thing, as there's no limits as to what I might wear next. I will say thought that I love a lot of colour, fun accessories, and high heels! Oh ya, and I definitely consider leopard a neutral and wear it religiously. 

Do you think there is a difference between “fashion” and “style”?

To me, fashion is all about what's happening on the runways, what we see in the magazines, and what's "trending". But style is how you take those fashion moments and make them your own. It's unique to everyone.

Do you stick to conventional fashion or like to try and be original?

I wouldn't say I stick to conventional fashion and I'd like to think I'm somewhat original! I like to pick and choose which trends work me and try and put my own spin on them. I have fun with fashion and don't think there are any rules. For me, it's all about wearing what makes me feel good, not necessarily if it's on 'on trend". Cause what's the fun in that!?

If you were a fashion designer, what style of clothing or accessories would you design?

I am a total shoe addict so needless to say I would love to design some type of footwear. If only I could draw...#thestruggle

What advice could you give to someone aspiring to get into blogging and world of fashion?

Like anything in life if you love what you do it will show in your work and at the end of the day it won't even feel like a real job. So if fashion is where you'd love to be, I say go for it! Work hard, be persistent, and never forget to have fun!

What is your favorite thing about your chosen career? Why?

I love that whether I'm heading to my day job or blogging at home, I'm always in a creative environment that allows me to express myself.

What advice could you give to someone who wants to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin?

I would say take baby steps. If you always wear black and want to start wearing colour, don't feel like you need to wear a red one piece suit! Maybe opt for a coloured scarf or a fun necklace. It's in those moments where you step out of your comfort zone just a little bit that we start to grow and gain that confidence. 

In your opinion what is the biggest challenge women face today?

There will always be challenges no matter what gender, colour, or race you might be. But when it comes to women in the fashion industry I think there's an underlying competition that starts to happen. Like who has the hottest new handbag? How many followers do you have? That type of thing. For me, I think it's about surrounding yourself with amazing people and counting your blessings everyday. Like they always say, "girls compete against each other, women empower one another!"

What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

Have the courage to live a life true to yourself, not the life others expect of you

Oh and...

Never go to bed mad, it's all about the peace and happiness :)

If you didn’t need to work for income, what would you do with your time?

Honestly, I think I would still be blogging but I'd love to take it international! I love travelling so I would definitely be doing a lot of that.

Lyndsay, THANK YOU so much for sharing your answers with me and Letters to LALA land readers.

You can stay in touch with Lyndsay and Over My Styled Body via Instagram and Twitter 

*all images of provided by Overmystyledbody.com and Lyndsay

Fabulous & Fearless Feature

Today on Fabulous & Fearless Feature I m very excited to introduce Vanessa. She is one of the first bloggers I started following. She is a true fashionista with unique and edgy style who has been a huge inspiration. In the Fall of 2010, Vanessa began writing fashion articles for FACTIO Magazine which ultimately led to the idea of her amazing blog – What Would V Wear. I hope you enjoy getting to know Vanessa as much as I did.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? 

My name is Vanessa, but my friends call me “Vanis”. I have been fashion conscious since my early childhood. At the tender age of three I could already be found walking around in elaborate dresses, which certainly paved my way as a little fashionista.

I was born and raised in Europe hence I was exposed to a variety of artistry and cultures that I now incorporate in my fashion and own style mantra. My enduring fascination with fashion led me to the creation of extravagance designs; and to wear clothing that is beyond the mainstream.

Do you think there is a difference between “fashion” and “style”?

I certainly do, yes. Fashion is the relationship to the external, meaning “What’s out there?!”, “What’s new?!”, etc. Fashion distracts, style connects. Style is something that you either have or not. It comes from within. You don’t always have to have the latest fashion in order to be considered stylish. You need to find your own voice. Style is a way to create a closer relationship with yourself.

If you were a fashion designer, what style of clothing or accessories would you design?

I love this question since I am actually a fashion designer. I graduated with honors and received my Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Fashion Design in 2010. I’m currently working on a line coming out this summer. I’ve been recognized for my polished mix of sharp, clean lines and intelligent tailoring in the Chicago area.

 

What advice could you give to someone aspiring to get into blogging and world of fashion?

Be authentic and be patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Be dedicated and work hard. Also, don’t compare yourself to other bloggers – it will only discourage you. Always focus on yourself and find ways to stand out!  

What is your favorite thing about your chosen career? Why?

Firstly, it means that I have a lot of clothes to wear. I remember always searching for special clothes that would suit me in color, fit, etc. but I didn’t always find them, so for me, being a fashion designer is first and foremost my ability to design clothes for myself that will express my own individuality, and of course, the ability to share them with all of you. However, my actual full-time job is in the Governmental Services field which I also love! I work with a wonderful team, and I couldn’t be happier to be in a position that allows me to pursue other interests as well, such as fashion.

What advice could you give to someone who wants to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin?

It all starts with thinking positively. If you want to feel comfortable in your own skin, then you have to start thinking about the best thing that can happen to you instead of always expecting the worst. Any time you catch yourself thinking negatively, fight your negative thoughts with at least two or three positive ones. Make an effort to rationalize your negative thoughts away and to expect good things to happen to you; the more you expect good things to happen, the more they will. 

Further, make it an effort to develop confidence. Confidence comes from within, and developing your confidence means feeling good about who you are, where you are, and what you have to bring to the table.Developing confidence may take a lifetime but you can start NOW to make a commitment to start changing the way you feel about yourself.

 

What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

To never give up, and that God always comes first.

If you didn’t need to work for income, what would you do with your time?

I’d be blogging all day! LOL 

No, I would spend more time with my family and travel the world together.

You have a beautiful son, how do you manage blogging, working and motherhood?  

Thank you. My son just turned 3 and he’s a lot of fun! My son, Kingston, is usually with me when I have my photo shoots. He always makes me laugh which is why you see me laughing/smiling so much! To manage it all I think it truly depends on a great support system which would be my husband in my case. He’s my biggest help and supporter and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for him. Also, time management is super important. My days are literally structured to every single minute of a day which helps me and my family tremendously.

Vanessa, Thank you so much for sharing your answers with me and Letters to LALA land.

You can follow Vanessa and What Would V Wear on  Instagram , Twitter & Facebook

*all images of Vanessa provided by WhatwouldVwear.com and Vanessa

FABULOUS & FEARLESS FEATURE

Today, I’m especially excited about a new weekly series called Fabulous & Fearless Feature. Every Wednesday, for next eight weeks I will feature one amazing women and share their stories with you. While working on them, I kept running into the living room to tell my friend the surprising things these amazing women were revealing. Reading their answers shows how wonderful these women really are. In the upcoming eight weeks they will share their insights in fashion, careers and their take on some of the issue women are facing today.

Thank you so much to all the incredible women who shared their stories.

First up, the most amazing person I know; my sister and my best friend.  She is one of funniest and more ridiculous people I know; never afraid of a challenge, always willing to offer a helping hand and one person that never says no when offered food. 

Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?

 I am a first year ESL and Physical Education teacher. Volleyball, shopping, and trying new food are some of my favorite hobbies

        

What advice could you give to someone aspiring to become a teacher?

 Be yourself, everyone else is taken! Don't be afraid to take a chance if you think the students will benefit from it. I know it can be scary to stray away from the tradition, but it is usually worth it! Change is good! I would encourage you to get to know your students beyond the classroom. If you know what their hobbies and interests are outside of the classroom, you can use that information to engage them in your lessons. Lastly, practice what you preach. Students will call you out if you are breaking a rule they are supposed to follow!

Do you stick to conventional fashion or like to try and be original?

As mentioned above, I follow what is trending, but I do like to add a hint of Elvisa to every outfit. Currently, I am loving statement necklaces, but I like to mix and match styles most people wouldn't typically pair together.

What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

"If it's important to you, you will find a way. If it's not, you will find an excuse" or "Don't make someone a priority if they treat you like an option."

       What do you love most about yourself? 

A question (almost) everyone struggles to answer.. I would have to say my curiosity to get to know people and to  hear their story... and I guess I do like my eyebrow shape ;)

What advice could you give to someone who wants to feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin?

First you must love yourself, before you can love anyone else!  If someone doesn't like the way you look on the outside, then they sure don't deserve to get to know you on the inside, let alone love you!

Thank you for sharing your answers with me and Letters to LA LAland.