► BYE BYE SUMMER: August MIX

So long summer, kids. Hello to chunky knits, infinity scarves & plenty of time to listen to good music. Hope you enjoy this playlist of songs I've been listening to in August! :]

BYE BYE SUMMER: AUGUST MIX from kimee.f on 8tracks Radio.

Current Favorites | August

Snack: Cinnamon ice cream. Seriously guys? How have I not known about this, also MINT OREO THINS (makes you not feel as guilty for eating a whole row in one sitting).

Drink: Peppermint lemonade. It's unexpectedly satisfying.

Skincare/Mascara: Mary Kay. Seriously guys, this brand is absolutely awesome.

Lipstick: Colourpop. I've never had lipsticks that have been this pigmented in my entire life. And for only $5? I'm sold.

Eyeliner: Milani. This brand is seriously the most pigmented I've found thus far in my many years of eyeliner wearing. And it's a drugstore brand! Can't beat it.

Protein: Iso 100 in BROWNIE BATTER. Seriously guys, if you dread having a protein shake after your workout this will change your mind.

Restaurant: Amorino in Chicago. Best pizza I've had in a lonnnnnnng time.

Vegetable: Beets. Seriously, beet apple lemon juice has been my go-to ever since trying it at Urge. I refuse to pay $13 for a bottle every time I crave it so I  make it myself. SO good.

City: Wicker Park. If you're an artsy weirdo like myself you will love it here. It has a ton of awesome restaurants, vintage shops, record stores, and bookstores. Such a cool place.

10ROTW

- I got harassed by 5 guys for eating veggie chips with my lunch. "I can smell the sodium on those things" (#kGoSitSomewhereElse with your quinoa and spinach salad)
- A veggie chip will not kill you, fyi.
- Seeing Disclosure front row was the highlight of my DEMF experience this year. Also, Method Man (from the Wu Tang clan) decided to do a moshpit.
- Moshpits are not for short people, FYI.
- My family decided to have our family picnic on the hottest day of the summer. What awesome planning.
- If it's 90 degrees out or hotter, I'm probably inside for the day. UNLESS I'm on vacation, obvz.
- The Chicago transit system has me completely confused. How am I supposed to have any fun when I'm on a train for 5 hours going the wrong way?
- I met&got on stage with Rainer&Grimm and didn't get carded in Chi-Town. I also get to the door expecting to pay a cover & the bouncer says they're paying people to come in. HA! That's what I like to call MEANT TO BE HERE.
- Deep dish pizza is not all Chicago has to offer. Try Amorino, it will change your life.
- If America has pizza this good, I must visit Italy ..SOON.

Saint Laurent SP/SU 16: thrifty?

As soon as I saw this collection for the first time, I knew instantly that I had to blog about it.
As many of you know, I am a lover of anything vintage. The thrill of the hunt excites me SO much. I have a deep love and appreciation for things from previous decades. I am also into reconstructing items from the past into modern-day wear.

The Saint Laurent Spring/Summer 2016 collection is right up my alley as it is filled with items that are extremely vintage and 90s inspired. This collection is amazing because not many of us can actually watch a fashion show and have the means to go out and purchase the extravagant items that we see. This collection contains looks that can easily be re-created with items from your local thrift or vintage store.

(I may even do a thrift challenge where I re-create an outfit from this collection....)

Here is the video with all of the looks as well as some of my favorites

 from the collection.

► June/July: Poolside playlist

As we all know, summer is the season for music festivals. I've gotten the chance to listen to a ton of new artists this summer and I have a lot of new music in my library. I am definitely going to start making longer playlists because there is SO much music I want to share with you guys!
But as for now, take a listen to some of the artists I've been digging in June & July! enjoy.

Current Favorites | July

Movie: Pleasantville

This movie was released in the 90s but I actually just recently watched it for the first time and I definitely was not expecting it to be as good as it was. This is a movie about the importance of change, freedom, and non-conforming. And although life is not always pleasant, the juice is worth the squeeze. This movie is definitely a must-watch for everyone.

Snack: Dark chocolate covered almonds (for those sweet cravings) - Just try not to eat the whole bag, they're addicting.

Magazine: Glamour (this probably won't ever change). Glamour has always been one of my favorite magazines, and I recently actually re-activated my subscription. That totally beats paying the $3.99 everytime I'm in line at the supermarket.

Artist(s): Sza, Alina Baraz & Galimatias

Style: 60s era. How can you not be in love with the classy/sexy combo of the early&late 1960s? From the clothing to the hair&makeup, everything was so NON-conformist & pure perfection.

Accessory: Chokers (which are totally back IN, so tell my co-workers to stop making fun of mine)

Store: Banana Republic - Can't believe I've never actually shopped here before. I saw the sale sign outside the store & I'm so glad I decided to visit the store. This is an amazing place to shop for young professional/stylish adults.

I'm back!

Hey guys, I've been a bit MIA but now I'm back!

I had a slight issue when my Macbook charger broke. & I'm a thrifty type of girl, I refused to pay $80 for a new charger. Of course I found one for much cheaper, but it took a while to get here.

NO MORE EXCUSES.

Now, back to regularly scheduled programming.

10ROTW

- Final grades were posted & on the plus side, I made the Dean's List. On the minus side, I was 0.6 points away from an A in one of my classes. Some professors just don't deserve nice words.
- Currently begging for an extra 0.6 points in my professor's inbox as I write this. Seriously though? 0.6 of a point?
- Going to Michaels is extremely distracting if you are artistic. I almost bought 3 canvas' for the sake of a sale. Then I remembered I can barely paint a wall let alone a portrait.
- Never rent books from Barnes & Noble. Stick with Chegg if you don't want unnecessary withdrawals from your bank account.
- Ginger tea will change your life. Add honey & it tastes just like Chai. Or am I crazy..
- Thank you Burger King for bringing back chicken fries. Thanks for the saturated fat.
- No, I don't want to install the updates Apple. Retry again, NEXT YEAR.
- I got locked out of my car yesterday and had to pay a stranger $60 to unlock it for me.
- I borrowed a strangers phone when I left mine in my LOCKED car & then he asked for my number. Really dude? Do you NOT see I'm in a crisis?!
- My internship went from unpaid to paid, two weeks in. I'm extremely happy about that because I don't have to get a job & I can keep my mornings for ME-time. Think they'll comp the hours I've already done? (ok now I'm just being greedy)

► April/May: Pre-Summer MIX

SUE ME. I combined April & May into one playlist.
(Sorry I was too busy finishing college)
I've been obsessed with Oliver Heldens & Freejak, but I tried not to go overboard with those two.
I added a couple of throwbacks as well! Enjoy!

April/May: Pre-Summer MIX from kimee.f on 8tracks Radio.

10 randoms (that you may/may not care about)

I haven't updated my blog often at all. I'm literally sitting here breaking my New Years Resolutions as we speak.

10 Randoms of the Week

1) I found a brand new copy of The Alchemist at a thrift store that I instantly purchased because it's Pharrell's favorite book. Maybe it will help me become like Pharrell.

2) I also went to Trader Joe's, in which I did NOT pick up a cart to put my things in (for fear of buying too much). I bought 3 things totaling $7.77. I should start gambling.

3) Trader Joe's > Whole Foods

4) The Period Tracker app is a blessing & a curse. It states that my time of the month falls directly on the same day as DEMF. Devestating. I'm going to pray that it's an early prediction. (TMI ..maybe)

5) My April Favorites playlist is COMING! It's a couple of days late but I'M SORRY that I was just too busy FINISHING COLLEGE.

6) Girls is my new favorite show. It really makes me look forward to those post-college years I have left in my 20s. It also makes me jealous of Lena Dunham.

7) I just finished reading Lena Dunham's book (is this whole post about Lena Dunham?) & I've decided that I love her. Mainly because she reminds me of myself and isn't life about being narcissistic?

8) Cookie butter from Trader Joe's tastes the exact same as Biscoff. But actually, Biscoff may be a bit better. Actually, Biscoff is way better.

9) I've decided that Q'Doba > Chipotle. Mainly because of their cookies. And the last time I went to Chipotle they were out of black beans. WHO RUNS OUT OF BLACK BEANS.

10) Michelle Obama was 20 minutes from me yesterday. Yeah. That deserved to be #10.

Did people really workout like this in the 80s?

>>

So I was on YouTube casually browsing through my 80s playlists (if you know me, you are aware that the 80s is my favorite decade) & I came across these workout videos!
I don't know how people seriously followed these, they are BEYOND uncomfortable to watch! The women look absolutely glam with full makeup and hair, but what's up with the camera angles? I don't know, I guess they're either great for a good laugh or maybe they actually work.
Either way, this was PURE GOLD and I had to share.
I hope from watching these you either get a laugh, a new workout routine, or a little of both! HA!
>>

► March Mix

Many people have seemed to take an interest in what music I listen to, so I'm going to be frequently creating extremely diverse playlists of songs I've been playing over & over. Not sure how often I'll be creating these, but for now - here's a mix of the songs I've been loving in March!

MARCH MIX from kimee.f on 8tracks Radio.

Physical Activity: How much is enough?

I know I should be active, but how much is enough?

First, let's get into the basic definitions of physical activity and exercise.

Physical activity is anything that causes you to burn extra calories over resting energy expenditure. Shoveling snow or washing the car counts!

Exercise is planned, structured and repetitive body movements to improve or maintain physical fitness.

For health benefits, the CDC recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like a brisk walk) on a weekly basis as well as activities that promote muscle strength two or more days per week. All major muscle groups should be worked at least twice per week.

If intense workouts are more your speed, aim for 75 minutes of vigorous exercise such as running or kickboxing, weekly.

If you are only able to do shorter workouts, make sure your exercise sessions are at least ten minutes at a time. This is a great option for people who only have smaller chunks of free time throughout their day.

Going beyond 300 minutes of weekly moderate-intensity activity or beyond 150 minutes of vigorous activity yields more health benefits. Any amount of physical activity is beneficial. Determine your own goals for physical activity whether they be weight loss, weight maintenance or increased energy levels.

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If you don't already know, I am one of the writers for the Top 5 Student Health Concerns at Western Michigan University. 

Check out more here: http://www.wmich.edu/healthcenter/advisory/top5

Japanese street style

I have always been extremely inspired by the different styles of dress in Japan. I visited Japan years ago but I never got to really experience the many out of the box styles of Tokyo. It seems like everyone has their own style that they stick to, whether it be Lolita, Gyaru, Kogal, Fairy Kei, Harajuku or one of the many other types of styles. (http://www.japan-talk.com/jt/new/tokyo-fashion-field-identification-guide) These individuals are not afraid wear whatever they please no matter what, which is extremely inspiring. Although there are people in America that dress outside of the box, for the most part we are stuck in this society that glorifies the common nature of conforming to a specific style in order not to be judged.

I have also recently been interested in the "Lolita" style of dress which is very over-the-top and doll-like.

Everyone always asks me why I am so obsessed with the 80s, and it is virtually the same reason why I love Japanese style. In the 80s people dressed extremely colorful and vibrant, and weren't judged for it.  
Even if this isn't your style, I encourage you to dress the way that you feel, no matter what people say or how people look at you. There is always going to be someone that doesn't understand why you are the way you are. #DOYOU

#MCM: SoMo

Joseph SoMo (who goes by the stage name SoMo) is an R&B singer who gained popularity originally from YouTube doing covers and renditions of popular songs. The first song I heard from him was his medley of songs from Drake's album Take Care but he has since released his own music that you can check out on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheMrSoMo

Here are a few of my favorites from SoMo. He has such a soulful and beautiful voice that may cause you lose track of time when listening so, proceed with caution.

Take Care Drake (medley)

3005 Childish Gambino (cover)

Stay With Me Sam Smith (cover)

Kanye West x Adidas Originals

It's only Day ONE of fashion week and already one of the most highly anticipated shows has already taken place. I'm talking about Kanye West's collaboration line with Adidas. The line was very minimalistic, very distressed, very relaxed, and VERY Kanye. 

I really like the line, in spite of the hosiery outfits and stocking caps. But to be number ONE you have to be ODD right?

Here are some of my favorite looks from the collection.

#FitnessFriday: Waist training

Waist training has been all the rage as of lately. Celebrities from Kim Kardashian to Snooki and social media socialites alike seem to be following suit. But is it safe, or just another fad? What is the difference between waist training and corset training? How can I maximize the benefits of waist cinchers if I decide to start training? I'm going to answer all of those questions in this post.

Waist cinchers/Waist training

Waist cinchers are designed to aid sweating in the mid-section, aid in trimming the waist, and they are designed to provide a slimming effect under clothes. They are typically made of nylon, latex, or spandex. Waist trainers are typically supportive and more comfortable to move around in which makes them a safer choice for exercise. Waist cinchers are typically made with spiral or plastic boning which  moves better with your body.

Steel-boned corset/Corset training

Steel boned corsets are designed specifically to shrink your waist size instantly by 4 or more inches. Corsets are designed to shrink your waist/torso for aesthetic purposes. Steel boned corsets should not be worn while exercising because they are extremely tight and the steel boning does not move well with your body. Corsets are held together by lacing in the back. Corsets pull your internal organs beyond their natural point which may cause your internal organs to shift in response to the constriction of the corset.

So in conclusion, waist training seems to be the healthier and safer option as opposed to corset training. Waist training may be helpful in terms of helping maintain better posture, shaping your waist, back support, and increasing sweat in the mid-section. If you do choose to waist train, do so cautiously.Make sure that your cincher is not excessively tight to the point of not being able to breathe. Also, make sure that you are also eating a healthy diet and exercising  to maximize the effects of this process.

MusicCrushMonday: Neguim​Beats & GrazeBox

Hey guys, Happy New Year!

Excited for 2015 to bring you guys TONS of new content.

I promise to do better with blogging this year. I'm somewhat of a perfectionist, so I like to wait until I have quality content to share with you.

But, let's get to this week's #MCM: NeguimBeats
I don't even know how to describe this guy's music.
The eargasms do the talking for themselves.

∆∆∆
SideNote
Shoutout to @grazeusa for this box! 
Ingredients non GMO, no artificial flavors, no HFCS, and no trans fat, right up my alley!
If one of your resolutions was getting healthy this year, this box is a great way to try new healthy snacks that come conveniently pre-packaged!
graze.com

#MCM: Machinedrum

I know, I know. I've been neglecting my blog. I haven't made a #MCM in ages, and I kept up with my blog more in high school (I have since deleted all of those childish posts about useless celebrity gossip. If you haven't noticed, I've taken a different approach to blogging). 

Anywhoooo, enough with the excuses.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

I thought I'd start the day off with a new MCM, that being

 MACHINEDRUM

Like always, the music speaks for itself - so ENJOY. Don't be afraid to rape the replay ;)

#MCM: IGGY AZALEA

You don't have to tell me how late I am to hop on this bandwagon. I've been listening to this Aussie rapper NONSTOP lately. I love her unique flow and I couldn't believe she was an Aussie! If for some reason you've been hiding under a rock and have no idea who she is, take a listen to two of my favorites:

I LOVE this video, obvs because Cher Horowitz is like my ultimate girl friend-mate! In this vid, Iggy pays homage to the 90s flick, Clueless even down to the location of the video actually being filmed in the school that Clueless was filmed in!