Hope it helps!

Product List:

Rx for Brown Skin: Gentle Cleanser (for normal skin) | Exfoliating Serum | Exfoliating Toner  (for normal to oily skin) | Advanced Botanical Brightener

AMBI: Even & Clear Exfoliating Wash | Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer w/ SPF 30 | Fade Cream (normal skin) [combo kit available here]

**This post is not sponsored and all statements are my honest opinion.

Nothing says “school girl” like this pleated skater skirt from GoJane and boyfriend blazer. My custom crop top isn’t school issued, but what good is there in being a school girl if you don’t break a few rules? Eat your heart out boys!

Photo credit: Harlin Miller

What I’m Wearing:

Skater Skirt: (courtesy of) GoJane | Air Force Patch Crop Top: Custom made | Lita Style Booties: Lola Shoetique (sold out) | Blazer: H&M

Photo credit: Harlin Miller

Love this dress from GoJane! With the polka dots and sheer side panels, it’s the perfect blend of sex and sass. And these funky patterned earrings are the perfect compliment. I feel like such a woman when I’m wearing this dress.

What I’m Wearing:

Dress: GoJane | Earrings: Rashida Gurl

Photo credit: Harlin Miller

I played tourist recently and took a stroll through the city. (Yes, I take strolls in 6 inch heels. It’s the fabulous thing to do.) My new photographer snapped these gorgeous photos in the courthouse courtyard.

What I’m Wearing:

Shoes: MARTHA’s (courtesy of) Shoedazzle | Peplum Top: (courtesy of) Out of My Kloset Boutique | White Denim Jeans: Love Culture | “B” Bracelet: Bria Styles | Bag: Forever 21 (sold out)

]]> http://blakevond.com/model-citizen/feed/ 6 http://blakevond.com/fitness-friday-10-minute-workout/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fitness-friday-10-minute-workout http://blakevond.com/fitness-friday-10-minute-workout/#comments Fri, 26 Apr 2013 14:03:32 +0000 Keri On http://blakevond.com/?p=19152672 Are you someone who tells yourself you’ll make time to work out…soon, but soon turns into weeks (or never)? Do you wait so long in between workouts that EVERY workout causes an excruciating aftermath of soreness (that soreness you try to avoid by not working out)? No matter your excuse, it’s time to get up and get moving!

 If you have 10 free minutes in your day, then you have 10 minutes to work out. Although the daily recommended dose is 30 minutes of moderate exertion, short duration/high intensity exercise can be just as effective as longer-duration/lower intensity exercise. Once you find those 10 free minutes, choose one of the following workout columns to help motivate you to move it:

 ***If necessary, tailor one of these workouts to your surroundings and make the adjustments needed to meet you fitness goals. But just get it done!

What are your fitness goals?

Whoever wrote this popular children’s rhyme completely skipped the part where you have to meet his parents and work yourself into a frenzy hoping that they like you. Because we all know, it’s just easier if they do.

First impressions are key and what you wear can play a major role in just how far his parents see this thing going. Wear the wrong thing and mom will be planning your exit before you’ve even had a chance to introduce yourself.

Here are a few tips for how to be fashionable and mom approved.

If your guy’s parents live out of town, don’t be surprised if he invites you to dinner during one of his parents’ trips to town. He’s been talking about you for months, so it’s only natural that they would want to meet you.

Attending church is often is family tradition and sometimes your beau will ask you to tag along to see if you fit in with his family. Meeting his mom at church can be intimidating and it can be tough to know what to wear–especially if you’re not a regular churchgoer. The key is to be conservative and err on the side of caution. Stick to a neutral palette and stay away from trends.

It’s ok to show off your personal style and give them a glimpse of what attracted their son to you, just make sure to hide the parts that keep him up at night thinking of you.

Were these tips helpful? Feel ready to meet the parentals?!

You’ve reached that pivotal moment in your relationship and a million questions are running through your mind. What should you wear? Will they like you? Will they think you’re good enough for their son? Will it be awkward?

Here are 5 simple tips to help ensure his parents are just as impressed with you as your guy is!

1. Dress appropriately.

It should go without saying that you don’t want to have your goodies hanging out when meeting his parents. Even if that’s how you met their son. Nothing could be worse than dad oogling your cleavage while mom is pissed her son brought some harlot to her home. Think of it like a job interview. You want your possible future “employers” (in-laws) to take you seriously and offer you a position. Before you have the chance to open your mouth, their first impression of you will be what you look like and what you have on. You want to comfortable within your own style, just keep it classy. Need tips on what to wear? We’ve got you covered!

2. Bring something.

Don’t come empty handed. Keep it simple, though.

Flowers, an auromatic candle, or a nice picture frame will do the trick. If you’ve been invited over for a family dinner, bring the dessert (bonus points if it’s homemade). Show that you’re thoughtful and happy to be meeting them. A little goes a long way.

3. Know their names.

This may seem silly, but it’s one of those things that could make a huge difference. His parents may be old-fashioned and prefer you calling them ma’am or sir or address them as Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Don’t automatically assume you can address them on a first name basis or by their family nickname on your first encounter. And you definitely don’t want to start calling them “mom” and “dad” just yet. He may have been raised by a single mother who has a different last name than his. Save yourself the embarrassment and find out beforehand.

4. Be nice.

Another obvious one, but its key. You want to be friendly and outgoing, but don’t go overboard. Chances are his mom has met a few previous girlfriends and can see right through the bull. Relax. Smile. Don’t be afraid to disagree with something or to say “no, thank you.” If you were invited over for dinner, offer to help clean up. A simple gesture that shows a lot about your character. Show that you were raised to have manners and you’ll do just fine.

5. Do a little digging.

Find out from your honey what’s his dad’s favorite sports teams or his mom’s favorite hobby. Ask to see old family photos. That will definitely get them talking!

You’ll avoid awkward silences and appear to be genuinely interested in getting to know them. Don’t be afraid to tell his dad that you thought his team deserved their last loss and that their quarterback sucks. He’ll like the fact that you know a little about sports and happy that his son found a woman with a little spunk! Suggest that his mom show you how she sewed the dress she has on or how she cooked tonight’s meatloaf. The key is to find a little common ground and to get them to be comfortable having you around without overdoing it.

*Bonus: Don’t jump to conclusions.

Just because you’re meeting his parent(s) today, it doesn’t mean he’s going to ask you to marry him tomorrow.

For some guys, having you meet his parents is no a big deal. For others, having their mom’s approval is like getting a ticket to open the golden gates. A good way to gage the significance of the moment is by paying attention to your guy. If he makes a big deal out of it, then trust and believe this is a big test for you. If he acts nonchalant and barely bothers to introduce you..then chances are your relationship might be a bit more casual than you assumed. Regardless, making a good impression is important. Especially if you can see yourself in this relationship for the long haul.

While first impressions are everything, you want to remember to be yourself. After all, you’ve already won over the person who matters most.

Have you meet your beaus parents? Got any tips?

Here are 4 ways to stylishly wear neon:

1. Create Contrast

 In the color world, black, white and neon are polar opposites, but when together they are perfectly in sync. Adding a bright neon with white or black clothing creates a contrast that makes for a bold look that’s sure to get you noticed.

2. Add Neon Accessories

If you’re color shy and don’t want to travel too far out of your comfort zone, the easiest way to include neon is through accessories. A skinny belt, clutch, sunglasses and/or a scarf is a subtle way to ease your way into the trend that practically yells, “look at me now”.

3. Colorblocking

To create an instant head turning look, combine two neon colors in one ensemble. Anything from red bottoms and a hot pink top or a lime green skirt and yellow jacket is fair game. Since the outfit is already bold in color, keep your silhouette very fitting and simple.

4. All Neon Everything

If you’re a risk taker all neon is definitely your thing. It’s a fun and crazy way to introduce a playfully wild side into your wardrobe.

Have you tried the neon trend? What are your favorite ways to rock it? What is your go-to neon shade?

Finish: Matte | Collection: Fashion Sets | Price: $15 | Availability: MAC

Dupes: Revlon’s Berry Haute combined with Maybelline’s Color Sensational Lipgloss in Mirrored Plum (see it here)

3 Ways to Wear

1. Heroine + Jordana Easyliner for Lips (Cabernet): Default version of Heroine.
2. Heroine + Wet n Wild Megalast Lip Color (Click On My HyperPink)+ Maybelline’s Color Sensational Lipgloss (Mirrored Plum): Party girl version of Heroine! By applying the WnW lip stain to the center of the lips, you get a great pop of pink. Apply the lip gloss over top sets the color. 
3. Heroine + Jordana Easyliner for Eyes (Purple Passion): The lip liner makes the lipstick appear a little blue, which I love. Also, try using a blue eyeliner like NYX’s Jumbo Eye Pencil in Cobalt.

Here are 15 ways to keep the relationship fun and exciting without burning a hole in your pockets.

15 Budget Friendly Dates

1. Go to the Park

The park is the perfect place to go on a date. You can take a stroll, ride bikes, play frisbee, fly kites, or just have a nice, romantic picnic.

2. Go Wine Tasting

Smaller cafes, coffeehouses, and restaurants offer excellent deals on wine tasting tours. Some even come with complimentary dessert pairings!

3. Attend a Concert

During the summer, there are tons of free concerts going on. You just have to do a little research and planning ahead.

4. Visit a Museum

Check out a museum for some cultural enrichment. Many offer free or discounted entry on certain days. Check out their website to find out when.

5. Catch a Matinee

The bonus of going to a theater earlier in the day is not only do you get a discounted rate but you don’t have to deal with the crowds.

6. Decorate Your Room

Always wanted to hang some pictures in your room, paint your walls, or display some artwork? Use it as a fun activity you can do together.

7. Volunteer Together

Feed the homeless or spend the day at your local animal shelter.

8. Go Window Shopping

Even if you can’t buy everything you want, it’s always fun to dream. If you really want to spice things up go to a lingerie shop and try on a few pieces for your guy.

9. Attend an Open Mic Night

Lots of venues have amateur night for spoken word, poetry, or even comedy acts that cost little to nothing. Find something that interests you and go.

10. Go to the Beach

That is, if you’re lucky enough to live within driving distance of one. If not, plan a weekend getaway!

11. Cook Dinner Together

Go to your local farmer’s market, pick up some fresh ingredients and impress each other with your culinary skills. Don't forget dessert!

12. Go Out Dancing

Find a club that has free entry before a certain time, gather up your hunny, and get on the floor! Try something new like salsa or mereginue.

13. Have a Game Night

Invite some of your friends over and have a game night. Bring out some of your childhood favorites or try some new ones.

14. Take an Art Class

Museums often have free weekly or monthly art classes. Find one that interests you and get your hands dirty!

15. Do Something Adventurous

Go hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, or if you’re really bold – skydiving! There are great websites like Living Social, Groupon & Travelzoo that offer excursions at steal prices.

Be frugal, but not cheap! (There IS a difference.) And remember, it’s not about how much money you spend, but the time and effort being put into it.

*BONUS TIP: Don’t forget your student ID! Most places offer student discounts. And with all the money you’re spending on tuition, why not save a little on the things you actually enjoy?!

Do you have any other great date ideas to add to the list?