The Luxi Look | LA based fashion and lifestyle blog

By Amy Zhang August 22, 2016 in Beauty, Style 32 Comments

Why You Need to Eat Your Water + a Fun Giveaway !!

Reformation Watermelon Dress | The Luxi Look

I had the honor of attending the re-opening of the Murad store on 3rd Street a few weeks back. (If you’re in LA, check out the brand new store!) Murad was actually one of the first skincare brands I splurged on after I graduated from drugstore products in high school. Needless to say, I was super excited to meet Dr. Murad himself, who happened to be in attendance that evening! Dr. Murad was an absolute DELIGHT in person and full of wisdom (on skincare among many other topics). One skincare tip he really emphasized was how important it is to eat your water.

Why You Need to Eat Your Water + a Fun Giveaway !!

Wait, what? Eat your water? YEP. Think about it this way – we’re often told that we need to drink 8 glasses of water a day, but what about the foods we are eating?

It only makes sense that nourishing, water filled foods such as fruits and vegetables would be better for your skin than icky, preservative and sodium filled crap. Right?! When we eat our water, we are able to nourish our body from the inside out. The average human body is about 60% water, which explains why fruits and veggies help our skin glow.

Some other benefits of drinking + eating your water when it comes to skin – less prominent wrinkles, brighter skin, and fewer breakouts. Lesson learned – stay hydrated!! If drinking your 8 glasses a day is tricky, try adding lemon, cucumber, or mint! And, eat your water!

Speaking of eating your water, I LOVE fruits and veggies. In case you can’t guess from this dress, I love watermelon (which just so happens to be 92% water – yesss!). After hearing Dr. Murad speak, I’ve made a point to eat as many fruits and veggies every day as possible. I definitely notice a difference in my skin when I load up on fruit based foods vs. dehydrating foods such as foods high in sodium (anything processed, ick) and alcohol.

I’ve also been incorporating some Murad products into my skincare routine and so far am LOVING them!! Full review of everything to come.

Finally, I wanted to say that I am so incredibly thankful for each and every one of you that follows me and comes by my page to read my posts. I love you guys! That’s why I am SO excited to be partnering with Murad to give away $150 worth of Murad products! There’s no better time to start a new skincare routine than with the changing seasons!

You can enter with your email, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram – see below for rules and regulations. This giveaway will be open until September 9th. Good luck babes!! And thank you so much for reading.

xx, Amy

Murad $150 Gift Card Giveaway

dress: reformation | shoes: topshop

photos: jordan zobrist

By Amy Zhang August 20, 2016 in Beauty, Style 23 Comments

Blonde Ambition

The Luxi Look Dying Your Hair for the First Time

You may have noticed that something about me is a little different… I colored my hair! As anyone that knows me well can tell you, I went back and forth on the decision for years before finally taking the leap and doing it. I knew that anything other than my natural hair color would look very… unnatural, so I was apprehensive to say the least. If you’re thinking about dying your hair for the first time, read on…

Blonde Ambition

So the title of this post may be slightly misleading, I’m not actually blonde. (Nor am I ready to make that dramatic leap yet.) I am really more of a sandy/honey-colored bronde. I was VERY specific about what I wanted and went in with pictures and a long list of attributes I did and did not want. (TBH I was a complete nightmare of a client. Not too ashy, not too warm, not too brassy, not too high maintenance. The list went on and on).

Dying your hair for the first time

If you’ve never colored your hair before, I highly recommend doing your research in advance to temper expectations and minimize disappointment. It is a BIG change (or was for me, at least) and definitely an investment that requires a LOT of maintenance. With that being said, it is a fun way to change up your appearance. And add some dimension to your hair!

The Luxi Look First Time Coloring Hair Lighter

The Luxi Look Lightening Asian Hair Color

The Luxi Look First Time Coloring Dying Hair

First, know that everyone’s hair reacts to dye differently. And if you have virgin hair (never been colored before) you won’t know how your hair will react to bleach. I’ve always been horrified seeing photos of girls with super brassy hair but I quickly learned that can happen to anybody. This is because underneath your natural hair color are underlying pigments that can show up when you bleach your hair. So underneath dark hair you have red and orange undertones, which explains why dark hair can turn super brassy and orange.

If you have dark hair, know that you won’t be able to go from black to blonde in a day. (At least not without SERIOUSLY damaging your hair.)

Lightening your hair is a process that takes time.

After doing endless research behind the science of coloring hair, I had to find someone I would trust to do the actual service. Instagram is surprisingly helpful – many colorists have and will post on Instagram these days! I stalked my colorist (@biancacolour – she is AMAZING) for a year before biting the bullet and booking an appointment.

The Luxi Look First Time Coloring Hair Blonde

I noticed that Bianca colored a lot of ASIAN hair – that was immediately a huge plus in my book (as I mentioned above, Asian hair can turn brassy and orange easily if you’re not careful). If you’re looking on someone’s page and don’t see 1. any final results that you absolutely love or 2. anyone that has your type of hair, you might want to look elsewhere.

When it comes to the actual appointment, pictures are a lifesaver. When it comes to any beauty service, you can’t expect people to read your mind and give you what you want unless you tell them!

After the whole process is done, it’s time to focus on proper care.

I’m still new to the colored hair game, but I made sure to grill every person I came across in the salon on tips and products to use. Bianca mentioned regular toning sessions to maintain the color and to stay out of the sun as much as possible. I’ll do a post on hair color maintenance as soon as I have more experience living with and caring for colored hair!

The Luxi Look Delacy Set Lili Claspe Horn Necklace

The Luxi Look Delacy White Two Piece Set

With Labor Day coming up quickly, it’s clear that summer is almost officially over. While that may be the case, I have always been the biggest proponent that white CAN be worn after Labor Day (and in fact, is encouraged). Why wouldn’t you want to show off that summer tan before it fades away in winter?? For most, black is the old standby but I have always been obsessed with the color WHITE.

This matching set by De Lacy is not only comfy but also flattering, all white (and tight) can be intimidating to wear, but there is well positioned wrapping and ruching to protect you even if you eat one too many tacos… seriously the best for those days and nights out. If you’re looking for quality basic pieces, De Lacy has you covered – shop my favorite picks below.

As always, thank you for reading (!!) – have a beautiful weekend loves! Let’s make the most of these last few weeks of summer!

xx, Amy

two piece set: c/o de lacy (top on sale!, skirt – both in black)

photos: lauren miller

By Amy Zhang August 18, 2016 in Style 22 Comments

Current Favorites

The Luxi Look Forever 21 Cutout Dress Mushroom Coffee

Hey guys! I feel like we haven’t caught up in a while. Tbh life and work have been really busy and I’ve also been trying to relax more. I also spent last weekend in Palm Springs and feel like I am still catching up from being away for a couple days. Trying not to stress about it!! So, I thought I’d share a couple things that have been total game changers in my life.

Current Favorites

Lately I’ve been loving:

This dry shampoo.

I only wash my hair 1-2x a week and this product gets me by without looking like a total disaster. Before you say that’s gross, washing your hair too often can fade colored hair (the maintenance is real). I also read spraying your hair with dry shampoo BEFORE a workout helps absorb sweat and keeps your hair looking fresh – will report back on that next!

Mushroom coffee.

If you don’t know, now you know. Don’t let the name scare you, it’s simply instant coffee with mushroom powder. AND it happens to be vegan, paleo, sugar free, and non-GMO. This stuff is AMAZING and gives you so much energy. It also tastes surprisingly good, considering how it’s technically instant coffee. You just mix the powder with hot water and you’re good to go. My boyfriend discovered this and now I am taking all the credit (sorry babe!). Oh, and get 10% off using my code THELUXILOOK. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!!

This dress.

I am not easily swayed by sales or fast fashion (see my take on shopping fast fashion or sample sales) but every once in a while you come across a find that is simply too good to pass up. I couldn’t believe this dress was only $29(!!) – yes, really – and knew I had to have it. For the price it really can’t be beat. As someone who religiously scours the new product section on Forever 21’s site, this is one of my favorite pieces I’ve seen in a while!

Even though it is way too hot to be thinking about fall fashion, my lazy girl solution is to bring back booties and wear them with anything and everything. I’ve lost count of how many pairs of black booties I have (can you ever really have enough?) but I love this pair from Marc Fisher and the extra height it gives me. I am also convinced a hat is the perfect finishing touch to ANY outfit – bonus points because it protects your hair and skin from the sun. There you have it – the easiest pre-fall transitional outfit ; ).

And because Labor Day seems to unofficially mark the end of summer, I’m trying to plan a quick weekend getaway for that weekend along the west coast – any suggestions??

xx, Amy

dress: forever 21 | shoes: c/o marc fisher | hat: lack of color (on sale!)

photos: lauren miller

By Amy Zhang August 16, 2016 in Beauty 19 Comments

5 Minute Makeup Routine

I’ve already admitted it, but I’m the laziest person ever when it comes to beauty. Which is why I’ve come up with tricks to make it work for me, like my 5 minute makeup routine.

I’ve been meaning to get better at makeup for a while now. In an age of YouTube Beauty Gurus, I’ve seen high schoolers that put my makeup game to shame. To be honest, usually I just rub products all over my face and hope it works out.

Only half kidding. I’m working on it.

5 Minute Makeup Routine

But in the meantime, my morning makeup routine is as simple as they come. 5 minutes or less and I’m out the door. Every girl needs a 5 minute makeup routine for those days you’re feeling crunched for time. Am I right?

Especially if it’s daytime. I’m all about that fresh faced look. I just don’t feel like myself when I’m wearing tons of makeup. If anything, it makes me feel even more self conscious. I’m all about a solid skincare routine and minimal makeup.

Despite being totally clueless at doing makeup, somehow I’m a product junkie? I could live and die in a Sephora.

I don’t use many products, but the ones I do I’ve tested a million times over. Here are the products I can’t live without (and the ones that get me out the door ASAP in the morning).

+ Tinted Moisturizer

I don’t typically use primer during the day. My skin is on the drier side to begin with, and I prefer a dewy and natural look. I used to HATE foundation, but Nars Tinted Moisturizer is a godsend (I use the shade St. Moritz). Think your skin, but better. Sometimes I’ll use a beauty blender, but I honestly think it looks just fine using your fingers. Plus, SPF!!! This product is amazing. I could sing its praises for days. I also LOVE Armani Luminous Silk foundation if I want more coverage.

+ Brows

a polished brow is key! I seriously cringe when I look at photos of myself from 5 years ago – talk about a HORRIBLE brow. This pencil is the best and the end with the spoolie is a lifesaver – always brush your brows UP and brush out any extra product. Voila! Fool-proof, easy brows.

+ Mascara

my ladies with lash extensions, this is a step you get to skip! For me, I always make sure I curl my lashes first. The trick to your fullest, most voluminous lashes with mascara is to LAYER. Depending on how dramatic I’m trying to go, I’ll use up to 3 (!!!) mascaras. I always use this primer and this mascara. If it’s nighttime or I’m feeling dramatic, I’ll layer on another one. Right now I’m liking this mascara a LOT.

+ Bronzer

I’m not the biggest fan of blush. But I do love adding a swipe of sun-kissed glow across my face. Check out this list of the absolute best bronzers. I typically just use whichever one I’m feeling that day. And um, I don’t contour. No idea how.

Honestly, that is IT. If I have a little extra time or want to add something more, I like this highlighter and this lip pencil. Easy peasy.

What’s your easy daytime look? Especially my beauty product junkies and fellow bloggers – I am always looking for ways to streamline my morning routine!

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang August 12, 2016 in Lifestyle, Wellness 23 Comments

How to Chill the F Out

You know that feeling when there just aren’t enough hours in the day to cross off everything you want to get done on your to-do list? Sometimes that feeling spirals out of control and you end up feeling like a frantic maniac trying to multi-task/be in more than one place at once. If you don’t recalibrate properly, it can be terrible for your mood and health. The real question is: how to manage stress and anxiety?

How to Chill the F Out

Stress SUCKS. Believe it or not, stress and anxiety are two of the worst things for your health. You might as well smoke and drink (jk, don’t actually).

Everyone handles stress in different ways. I aim to maintain a balanced and calm mindset but it doesn’t necessarily always work out that way. I’ve known for years that stress is incredibly harmful to your body. Just a FEW of the terrible side effects of stress:

Weight gain.

Some people lose their appetite when they’re stressed, I’m the complete opposite. I lose all willpower and go to town on the first thing I can get my hands on to eat. Stress eating is real. Oh, and it can also cause nasty problems with your digestive system. Fun, right?

Suppressed immune system = getting sick.

Ever noticed how you get colds or other illnesses more easily when you’re stressed? That’s because stress weakens your immune system, leading you to be more susceptible to both infectious and internal illnesses. Even headaches can be more common when you’re stressed.

Poor sleep.

Having trouble sleeping because of all the thoughts rushing through your head? You’re not alone. Stress can make it so much harder to fall and stay asleep. Which is bad news, because sleep is SO IMPORTANT. I aim for 8 hours a night (yes, really!) – I cannot recommend it enough.

You can honestly trace a lot of health related problems back to stress. It’s horrible for you. At the same time, it can be helpful – a little bit of stress might motivate you to get shit done and be productive. You just don’t want to go overboard. Knowing all of that, how do you manage stress? I’ve gotten a lot better at managing my stress and anxiety over the years,

Treat yourself.

Get a massage, a blowout, or a manicure. Buy yourself that dress you’ve been eyeing. If you’ve been working extra hard, reward yourself. Retail therapy isn’t the answer to long term happiness, but when you’re having a particularly rough week, it can help a little ; ).

Exercise.

This is honestly my favorite. When have you ever felt bad after a workout? I personally love workout classes, my go-tos are Barry’s Bootcamp and pilates. A run outside also does wonders for your mood (the runner’s high is real!), or take a spin class to kickass music. I guarantee you’ll feel better.

Boost your immune system.

If I’m having a busy week, I make sure to load up on fruits and veggies (fresh juices are great on the go!!) to give my immune system an extra boost. Most juice bars also have immunity shots that I swear by, but I sometimes make my own. If I’m feeling a little week, I like to get a B12 shot as well.

Meditate.

This means something different to everyone. Some days it’s a guided meditation through a podcast or app, other days it’s just sitting still, closing my eyes, and calming my breath and thoughts for 5 minutes.

Get outside.

Whether that’s outside as in actually being in nature or just leaving your house to spend time with friends, getting out is sometimes all it takes to gain a little perspective that our problems actually aren’t that big and everything is going to be okay.

Speaking of managing stress… one of my favorite things to do is get out of town. SO, I’m off to Palm Springs for the weekend for Splash House (yes, again). Be sure to follow along on Instagram and Instagram stories/Snapchat (username: amylzhang) to watch all the fun!

While I’ve gotten a lot better at managing my stress and anxiety over the years, I still struggle with it at times. How do you deal with stress and anxiety? Do you have a favorite way to wind down and de-stress?

xx, Amy