The Luxi Look | LA based fashion and lifestyle blog

By Amy Zhang May 15, 2017 in Style 26 Comments

What Does it Mean to be Authentic?

What a time to be alive… in the sense that entrepreneurship as a career path is bigger than ever and many people are able to do so through the internet and social media. It’s crazy to think that the job title “blogger” or “content creator” was beyond foreign to most people a decade ago. And the idea of “social media influencer?” Forget about it. With so many blogs/podcasts/YouTube channels/Instagram accounts/etc. being started these days, it’s no surprise many people are searching for shortcuts to success. One thing prominent content creators always talk about? Being authentic. But what does it really mean to be authentic? Especially in today’s digital world?

In my experience – what you see isn’t typically what you get. It’s really difficult to be exactly the same person in real life as your online persona. It makes sense – you show the best parts of yourself and your life on social media. No one wants to see a page filled with complaining and photos that aren’t aesthetically pleasing! So how do you incorporate an authentic voice with an aesthetic people actually want to look at?

What does it really mean to be authentic?

Even with my own content, I find myself facing a dilemma. On the one hand, scrolling through Instagram I feel like I see the same flat lays and outfit shots so often it can be difficult to distinguish one account to another. On the other hand, this is because certain images really do perform better on social media. Product flat lays, palm trees, sunsets, cocktails, avocado toast, macaroons, flowers – there’s a reason why you see so many of these shots.

When it comes to brand collaborations, it can become even trickier for bloggers and content creators. You want to work with brands you love and actually use, but many people also rely on brand collaborations to make a living. So how authentic are these collaborations and #sponsored posts? It’s tough to say – a general rule of thumb is to only accept sponsorships that are “authentic” to your brand, but what this means between the lines is different for every individual.

Then comes the part of being authentic about your life on social media.

It isn’t always possible to showcase every aspect of my life because I work full time during the week. This is why you won’t see me active on Instagram stories or Snapchat Monday through Friday. Is it not authentic to shoot batches of content and space them out over the week?

The reason why I bring this up is because I’ve been trying to figure out what it means to be authentic for me and what direction I want to take my content. Things with the blog have been quiet, but I’m ready to get back to posting several times a week. Writing and posting to my blog has always been my favorite component of everything that encompasses fashion/lifestyle blogging and I’m excited to get back into it.

For me, being authentic is incredibly important.

To be authentic means to be myself as much as possible through my blog (although some parts are always kept private). I can say that in terms of the products and lines I promote on my blog and social media, they are always ones I love (and not every single one is sponsored or even gifted). I will not work with brands that I do not absolutely love and I will not post photos of products I do not actually use or have not tried. It’s hard to resist trying every new trend that comes your way, but it is important to stay true to your personal style and voice.

On that note – this LBD has been on heavy rotation this spring. I adore the open back detail and scalloped hem. I’ve talked before about how much I love Magali Pascal – the brand never disappoints and their new collections every season are always something I look forward to. Worn here with a wallet on chain bag and my favorite Botkier sneakers.

Now I’m off to finish the second season of Master of None and pack for a week back home in Minnesota!

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang May 11, 2017 in Beauty 9 Comments

Talking to Lash Guru Amanda from Iris + West on Everything You Need to Know About EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Iris + West Lash Co Amanda Robinson Interview | by The Luxi Look

Dying to learn everything you need to know about eyelash extensions and see for yourself what they’re like?

Trust me, I was too. I heard from friends who got them how life changing they were. How they totally open your eyes and let you waltz out of the door in the morning with barely a speck of makeup. How they made you feel instantly pretty everyday. On and on they sang the praises of lash extensions.

For the longest time, I held off. The process sounded way too high maintenance and costly. How was I supposed to carve out time for fills? What if my natural lashes got ruined permanently? What if I became addicted and could never go back to my normal routine of extreme mascara layering because nothing would ever be good enough?

Then I heard from Amanda from Iris + West Lash Co. You could say she’s a bit of a lash guru. SO – I went to find out for myself, first hand, what the fuss is all about.

You guys – the hype is real.

Lash extensions really are kind of life-changing. Yes, they’re expensive and time-consuming to maintain. But all the good things you hear about them are true. The key – as with any sort of beauty service you’re having done – is to find a skilled technician. More of an artist, to be honest. After visiting Amanda, I’m (not so) embarrassed to say I’m totally hooked.

The process was totally painless and honestly felt like a breeze.

Most girls say they fall asleep while getting lashes done, and I can totally see why. It’s strangely relaxing and therapeutic to close your eyes and either nap or disconnect from the rest of the world for a couple hours. Once I was done, I was surprised by how comfortable the extensions felt on my natural lashes. I honestly couldn’t tell a difference at all.

And the results? I like a dramatic lash (LOTS of mascara) when I go out, but for the most part I’m a no fuss, light makeup kind of girl. Getting lash extensions has made getting ready for day and night such a breeze. For daytime – a little swipe of brow gel and I’m good to go. For nighttime – foundation, brows, bronzer, highlighter, and a bold lip.

I knew I just had to interview Amanda for the blog. SO if you’re curious at all about lash extensions (and just Amanda’s story in general – she’s a total badass entrepreneur!), read on.

Introduce yourself.

Hi! I’m Amanda, the founder of Iris +West Lash Co.

How did you get into the business of eyelash extensions, and how did Iris + West originate?

I started my career as a hairstylist and makeup artist in Seattle, Wa. which is also where I learned how to do eyelash extensions. During that time I became really passionate about creating easy beauty regimes that require minimal steps and effort but left my clients looking and feeling polished. Lashes fit perfectly into that attitude, and I fell totally in love with extensions.

What inspired you to start your own boutique lash studio?

When I first started working in L.A. four years ago, I was seeing a lot of bad extensions and hearing that a lot of women were having bad experiences with their lashes. I started Iris+West because I’m obsessed with giving my clients eyelash extensions that are not only comfortable and easy to wear but that are safe for their natural eyelashes. (<< she really is amazing!)

What has been the biggest challenge in owning and operating a boutique beauty studio in a city filled with big names and companies?

Valuing my own time and work. Being a small business owner means doing all sorts of jobs, not just applying eyelash extensions, so I have to check in with myself a lot to make sure I am putting my energy towards the most important task at hand.

How did you go about growing Iris + West?

Mostly word of mouth and social media. I have a very loyal clientele and they are the best advertisement! Instagram has also been a great platform to showcase the work that comes out of the studio, and the diversity of our clients. (<< SO COOL. Love seeing businesses grow from social media.)

I’ll be honest, eyelash extensions totally intimidated me for the longest time! What’s the key to finding the right technician and the right set of lashes for your face?

Do your research, and don’t compromise quality for a cheaper price. Look for good reviews, and check out their website and social media for pictures.

Top 3 care tips for eyelash extensions?

1. Don’t pick or pull at them 2. Avoid oily products on or near your eyes. 3. Brush them a couple times a week.

Can you still wear eye makeup? Take showers normally? Work out?

Yes, yes, and yes. Just make sure you are using an oil free remover to take off your makeup. You should also try to avoid getting your extensions wet for the first 12 hrs after you’ve had them done, but after that you should definitely wash your face and eyes like normal.

True or false: eyelash extensions make your regular lashes fall out.

100% FALSE! Your natural eyelashes shed, just like any other body hair, so when it’s time for a natural lash to come out, the extension just comes off with it. The only reason extensions would ever pull your natural lash out is if they’re being applied incorrectly.

True or false: lash extensions are addictive (ha!)

True! Jk, but because they are so easy, and simplify your beauty regime most clients never want to go back to their “pre-lash life”.

What are your favorite LA spots?

I try to hike up to the observatory a few times a week. It’s really peaceful early in the morning and I love being able to disconnect and spend some quiet time on my own. I also LOVE a good cup of coffee, and my current favorite is the Tesora blend with a splash of almond milk from Philz Coffee.

Beauty trends/lash trends do you see in the next year?

I think that soft, fluffy, dimensional lashes are always on trend. I’m hoping to see more fresh, dewy skin and graphic eyeliner. My favorite artists to watch for makeup trends are @violette_fr and @katiejanehughes (following them now!).

Be sure to check out more of Amanda’s work on Instagram! And for my LA babes, if you’re looking for a lash artist/expert – go see Amanda at Iris + West!

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang May 8, 2017 in Style 11 Comments

Do Nice Girls Finish Last? How to Tell if You Are “Too Nice” and What to Do About It

Do Nice Girls Finish Last?

We all know the golden rule – “treat others the way you want to be treated.” Simple, right?

Well, yes and no. There’s nothing wrong with being nice and in general it’s a wonderful trait to have. The world could use more kind, generous, and caring people. However, it’s definitely possible to be too nice and this can become a problem. When you are constantly putting the needs of others above your own and giving all you have, the person who ends up suffering the most is you. And let’s face it – no one wants to be a doormat. As someone who lives by the mantra “be nice, work hard, stay humble” – it was definitely a shock when I realized that there is such a thing as being “too nice.”

While I’m not saying you should quit being nice to people in general, it may be worth rethinking the way you’re giving your time and energy, especially if your giving ways leave you feeling drained or taken advantage of.

Why can being too nice be a problem?

For the most part, being nice is a good thing. But there are some negatives to being too nice.

– People may perceive you as weak. When you’re always putting others first and trying to go above and beyond, you could be viewed as weak or easy to take advantage of. If you don’t set your own boundaries and put yourself first, no one else will. If you don’t want to be treated as a doormat then don’t allow others to perceive you as such.

– It can be draining. Do you always say yes to every invite? Are you always taking on extra work or putting in the most effort in a group project? When you don’t know how to say no, you can end up exhausted and unhappy.

– You attract takers. You know the saying, “your vibe attracts your tribe?” When you’re always giving and giving, you can end up attracting the wrong kind of people that are looking to take advantage of you.

– You have unrealistic expectations for friends and family. When you are always going above and beyond for the people you care for, it can be easy to expect that treatment in return. In reality, you are only setting yourself up for disappointment.

– You don’t put yourself first. Again, self-love is so important. When you forget to be kind to yourself, you invite stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions.

How to tell if you are “too nice”

– You don’t know how to say no. Have you ever looked at your calendar and thought it was filled with things you didn’t actually want to do? That’s a sign you say yes to everything, even if you don’t actually want to.

– You care about what other people think of you and are willing to do and say whatever it takes to be accepted and well-liked.

– In group situations, your opinion is never heard. You avoid confrontation at all costs and let others make driving decisions because you’d rather let someone else make the decision than voice a contradicting opinion.

– You find yourself doing favors for people you barely know. (And feeling resentful and taken advantage of for saying yes.)

– You never have time for yourself.

What to do if you’re “too nice”

The older you get, the more like yourself you become.

Have you ever heard this saying?

My thoughts on this: at some point it becomes too exhausting to try to be someone else. We are who we are and while we should always try to improve ourselves and be the best version possible, there are certain things about us that we can’t really change.

If you’re a nice person by nature and your nature inclination is to always help and say “yes,” you shouldn’t have to fight it and change who you are. Every quality is a strength and a weakness depending on the situation – the key is making the most of the positives while avoiding the negatives.

You should still be the nice person you are – it’s so important to be authentic, and people will appreciate you for being yourself. What you can do, however, is be more choosy with your time and energy.

Learning how to say no, voice your opinion, and hold your ground is an invaluable skill to have. You only have time to say “yes” to so many things, so be picky about how you spend it. Honestly, it’s ok to be selfish sometimes and put yourself first.

At the end of the day – keep being yourself.

I really, really believe in the power of kindness. Yes, in the short term you might get taken advantage of or encounter some negative people. But – I’m all about the long game. And in the long run, giving more than you receive the way to go. If you’re not sold I highly recommend reading Adam Grant’s book, Give and Take. After a couple interactions recently that left me feeling drained and stepped on, I was questioning my mantra and the extreme value I placed on “being nice.” Re-reading Give and Take helped me gain a renewed sense of belief in the power of giving and squashed any notion that I should be more of a taker.

On that note – I’ve had a tough time getting my creative juices flowing of late, but these types of topics help with inspiration and writer’s block. Is there anything else you’d like to see more or less of on the blog? As always, thank you so much for stopping by and reading.

xx, Amy

dress: astr | shoes: steve madden | bag: from tzr box of style

necklace: sticks + stones | sunnies: pared

By Amy Zhang May 5, 2017 in Beauty 12 Comments

At Home Spa Day: Face Masks That Make You GLOW

Face Masks That Make You Glow | by The Luxi Look

Minor confession: I’m a total sucker for skincare products. My bathroom is a mess and my boyfriend hates it, but I can’t help it. I love testing and trying new products (even though I’m fiercely loyal to my favorites) and let’s be honest – there’s nothing better than a little at home spa day. Even though I recently discovered the wonders and benefits of finding a trustworthy esthetician and getting regular facials, I still like to do a little mask session every week at home.

I swear at this point I’ve tried almost every mask on Sephora and the various K-beauty sites and these are my absolute favorites. Some that I thought would love turned out to be overhyped and too expensive (*cough SK-II*), but some clear front runners eventually emerged. I swear these are the face masks that will make you glow!

At Home Spa Day: Face Masks That Make You GLOW

Fresh Rose Face Mask

If you have dry skin, this mask by Fresh will be a godsend. This hydrating mask is good for anytime and is full of ingredients your skin will love – rose petals, cucumber extract, algae, and aloe vera. I’ve had really good luck with this mask (goodbye, dry and flaky skin!) and love using it after traveling or whenever my skin isn’t feeling particularly fantastic. This one’s a heavy hitter in the regular rotation.

Glamglow Thirstymud Hydrating Treatment

Another one my thirsty, thirsty skin loves. If dryness isn’t your problem, no problem. Whatever your skincare woes are, Glamglow has a mask to solve them. This one goes on in a thin layer so sometimes I’ll put it on before bed and let it absorb into my skin while I sleep before rinsing off in the morning. Your skin will literally glow after using this : ).

Too Cool for School Egg Cream Mask

I’ve had luck with all sorts of sheet masks – you can generally expect to spend between $5-$15 bucks a pop on these babies. Usually I’ll just go on a beauty site and snag enough to last me several months, but I always make sure to include a couple of these masks. These “egg cream masks” are a good price and work really well in hydrating and brightening dull skin. I haven’t worn these on an airplane yet but I’m always tempted to, especially on particularly long flights. A sheet mask once a week keeps my skin happy and if it isn’t in your rotation yet, it should be (if nothing else for the frightening photos and reactions that ensue).

Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Mask

Have a little too much fun in the sun? Nothing is worse than getting sunburned, but it’s especially awful on your face. Soothe any red patches with this cooling and moisturizing cucumber mask to help your skin recover ASAP. Keep in the fridge for added comfort and relief. This one’s a must have with summer coming up.

Korres Greek Yoghurt Mask

This mask feels SO luxe and nourishing – slather on before bedtime and wake up to smooth, supple, and hydrated skin. It’s a major lifesaver in the winter!!

By Amy Zhang May 3, 2017 in Lifestyle 7 Comments

Talking Realness, Health + Fitness Tips, and More with Savvy Javvy

Let’s get right into today’s interview! I’m talking to the super fabulous Javvy of the blog Savvy Javvy. She has the best style, knows how to live a healthy lifestyle, is a total girl boss with her career, but still knows how to have fun! (<< I can personally attest to this, Javvy radiates so much energy and light, it’s truly contagious!)

Meet Savvy Javvy

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BLOG. I adore your style!!

I run the blog, Savvy Javvy, named after myself, Javvy! The blog actually started out highlighting corporate fashion as I worked in the corporate world, but it transitioned to be more of a street style, travel and lifestyle blog. I dress on the edgier side and love to mix high end pieces with more affordable items. It makes them easier to attain and less of a strain on the budget. Also, I travel quite often for work and pleasure so I highlight my travels and key components of each location for my readers to use as a travel guide. I have had the blog for a couple years now and truly put my heart and soul in it.

Where do you find fashion inspiration?

While traveling overseas to Europe, on Instagram and while walking around the cities I live in LA & NYC (I am bi-coastal, but mainly in LA). << MAJOR goals!!

What does a typical week look like for you?

Typically 9-5 I am working at my full time job, in the evenings I go to yoga and then attend different events around town that are usually sponsored by a brand. Love meeting and socializing with other bloggers who make incredible content. Like yourself 🙂 I shoot on the weekends and do my best to squeeze in friend and family time!

How do you find balance and manage your time?

I calendar everything and have to in order to stay focused. I have a full time job working as a Sr. Director of Marketing for an agency and I also manage the www.SavvyJavvy.com blog. Managing both is practically working two full time jobs as they are both demanding and both require a lot of nurturing to ensure they are both successful. I love both of my jobs so I try my best to balance them by focusing on my marketing job during the day and in the evenings I will answer emails and attend blogging events. I am that crazy friend that sends you a calendar invite if we are supposed to hang so that I do not flake on people or meetings!

Any tips for time management and getting shit done?

Say yes and don’t be afraid to reschedule. I do not like to flake so I always try to reschedule if something important comes up. In regards to managing time, make sure you set up time on your calendar for work, friend time and my ultimate favorite ME time. I block off time for yoga and before I say yes to a happy hour date with a gal pal, I will ask myself the hard question..am I willing to give up my my personal yoga time on this day? Sounds selfish, but if I went to happy hour all the time I would end up broke, fat but with plenty of friends 🙂

You travel a lot for work. How do you stay healthy on the road?

I carry pumpkin seed bars and bananas in flight and literally pack extras in my suitcase. Also I try to find healthy restaurants on Yelp prior to going to the city and make reservations. It keeps me organized and ensures I don’t cave and end up eating at an unhealthy restaurant just because I am feeling super hungry post meetings.

How do you stay healthy?

I eat a diet sans dairy, nuts, soy and corn and instead eat a diet full of protein, veggies and loads of seasonings. I have a slight french fry addiction so I try to only have those 1-2 times a week.

What are your favorite healthy recipes?

My favorite healthy recipe would have to be a glowing green smoothie I make in the mornings with spinach, sunflower seed butter, rice or coconut milk, a banana, raspberry, chia seeds, flaxseeds and hemp seed protein powder.

What’s in your purse right now?

iPhone 7plus in rose gold, Kopari lip balm, Armani his/her lip balm, Smith & Cult lip gloss in the shade Now Kith, Trident because I am obsessed with gum, Lakur nail polish because I hate chipped nails and love to touch them up, Benadryl because I am allergic to the world, Go Raw pumpkin seed sprouted bar because I always need a snack while I am on the go.

What are your favorite LA spots?

Brunch currently is The Butcher, The Baker, the Cappuccino Maker, Dinner I am currently lusting over pizza at Jon & Vinnys. In regards to shopping I would have to say I frequent TopShop and the Melrose Trading Post quite often since they are in my neighborhood, but I also like to head over to Robertson and shop at some of my favorite higher end brands.

Be sure to check out Javvy’s blog and Instagram!

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