Summer 2021 Reading List

I mean this blog is not just about makeup…and most of you, who have been following me for years, already know this. But for anyone new…as much as I love makeup and all things beauty, I love reading….and other things (that obviously will be blogging about). My go-to genres have always been cozy mysteries, non-fiction, and young adult materials (duh, if you know me, you know). The following books were either recommended to me by friends or I found them while scrolling through social media. All of these books were purchased from Indigo…but I can assure you that your local public library will have copies of these books if you want to read along with me!

This summer, I’ve decided to read a book per week–I picked up from my Young Adults Materials Class while I was doing my Master of Library and Information Science. The following books are supposed to be fun and cutesy stories with relatable characters…something I’m so excited for! Majority, if not all, are young adult fiction reads.

The Hating Game: A Novel by Sally Thorne

This book was recommended to me by my family friend and I’m so glad I picked this up. I know you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover…but honestly, how cute is the cover? Also, this is one of those enemies to lovers kind of book…and y’all already know how much I love those (your girl watches How to Lose a Guy in 10 days once every month solely for that reason). I can’t wait to start this book!

All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

While on Netflix, like most people, the movie version of the book appeared in my recommendations list. After watching the trailer, I knew I needed to read the book before I could watch the movie….hence, this ended up on my Summer reading list! Also, this book touches upon the subject of mental health in youth, something that needs to be discussed more!

Fat Chance, Charlie Vega by Crystal Maldonado

So thanks to BookTok (supposedly a thing on TikTok), I found this book to add to my Summer reading list. The main character of this book deals with some interest ordeals such as body image issues, cultural differences and more. It sounded super interesting so I had to see what it will be about!

Tweet Cute: A Novel by Emma Lord

Okay a Rom-Com novel that incorporates social media and cheese? I’m SO in. Honestly, are y’all even surprised at this point? My hopeless-romantic side could not resist adding this title to the list. I found this title through Booktube, which I honestly feel like is one of the most underrated YouTube channel genres out there!

Counting Down With You by Tashie Bhuiyan

I have spent countless years trying to find Young Adult material written by Bangladeshi authors about Bangladeshi characters (for obvious reasons, I’m Bangladeshi) and when I saw this book, I knew I had to get my hands on it. I’m currently half way through this book at the time of this blog post being published…and let me tell you, this book does not disappoint! It’s funny, it’s cute and it’s SO relatable because I know what Karina (the main character) is feeling (when I was her age).

Better Than The Movies by Lynn Painter

Again, a Rom-Com novel about Rom-Coms…seriously, stories like this are my thing. Sometimes I wish that I could live in my very own Rom-Com a la Bollywood. I found this book through BookTok as well. I believe someone got this title from one of those “blind date with a book” campaigns run by Indigo. I can’t wait to read this!

People We Meet On Vacation by Emily Henry

Okay, I read the first sentence of the synopsis of this book and I knew I had to get this! Two best friends, going on vacation together? I’m down times gazzillion. Also, this book is supposedly the most anticipated book of 2021…so of course I need to read it!

Fight or Flight by Samantha Young

I needed a quick beach read and this one fit the bill. It’s about travel (something I miss doing massively) and I’m all about that! This one is also one of those enemies-to-lovers trope so you know I had to read it! Clearly, summer love is the theme of my reading list this summer!

Are you going to read any of these? Do you want me to review these?

See you in the next post! x

Best Dressed At The Grammy Awards 2018

Did you check out the Grammy Awards last night? You know I did! Here are all my favourite looks from last night!

Beyoncé  Let us all learn something about personal style from Queen B. Slay.

Logic & Jessica Andrea The cutest couple and also one of the best dressed (duh). I love that these two are all about fun!

Hailee Steinfeld  This outfit would’ve been SO boring if it wasn’t for the holographic purple boots. Way to go Hailee. This is how one makes a style statement.

Trevor Noah I’m all about men trying different printed jackets and Trevor looks incredibly handsome in this ensemble!

Lana Del Rey She literally looks like she stepped out of heaven. What makes this whole ethereal outfit even more angelic is the star halo on her head. It just goes and isn’t extra at all!

Zayn MalikI mean when you’re this good-looking, you can wear a garbage bag and still make it work on a red carpet. I love that Zayn didn’t wear a conventionally boring black suit. Also, those socks doeeee!

Rita Ora I love a classic black gown on a red carpet. Her hair and makeup is what makes this whole outfit gorgeous!

Chrissy Teigen & John Legend  Again, one of my favourite red carpet duos. These two never disappoint and I’m all about this sparkly gown. Also, you already know how I feel about bow ties.

Donald Glover aka Childish Gambino  Pulling an all white suit ensemble is tough, but Donald Glover/Childish Gambino does it with such ease! Again, that bow tie…so cute!

Alessia Cara I love Alessia’s “I-don’t-care-about-heels” attitude. Alessia stays true to her personal unique style by making fashion comfy…and I’m all about it.

Thomas Rhett & Lauren Akins I love when couples coordinate outfits at these events. Something just screams “be jealous we’re adorbs”. These two look adorable!

Anna Kendrick Anna has been killing the red carpet style game lately! I am dying to recreate this outfit solely because it looks so chic and gorgeous!

 

Images courtesy of People.com, Hollywoodlife.com & Huffingtonpost.com

How I Get Ready For A South Asian Wedding Event

I open my closet and start pulling out outfits that make me look like Priyanka Chopra in my head…cuz you know ain’t nobody like a desi girl.

It’s time to game plan. There are different types of outfits one can wear when going to a South Asian wedding event. If I know the bride/groom personally, then you best know that I’ll be rocking that lehenga or glitzy saree. If I’m a plus one for my parents (yes, it’s a thing), then I’ll taper the look down in a kameez or a glam saree.

Once I’ve chosen at least 3 outfits as options, I’m going to start taking MySpace-esque mirror selfies to see which one looks the bombdotcom…because….hello Instagram?

…and I’ll send them to my most trusted squad members….because the squad has to approve right? Also, they’ll most likely tell me if I’m too scandalous #noscandalizedauntieszone

Outfit done. Time to get my makeup on. Popular to contrary belief, I rarely know what makeup look I’m going for. Almost always, I’ll pick the lipstick I want to use and base my whole look around that.

Daaang, makeup did. Now to get my hair did…cue the Beyonce playlist now…#feelingmyself.

Hair did. Face beat. Now for the bling. For me, it’s all about the glitz…because I’m that extra.

Time to Instagram…it’s about that #OOTD life.

And now I’m ready to get into the car and head to the event! Peace out! See you in the next post! x

Current Playlist

These are the songs I’m currently obsessively listening to. Also, if you’re not following me on like every social media account out there, then what are you doing with your life? Seriously (lolz). Anyways…enjoy!

1. Despacito (Remix) – Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee ft Justin Bieber
2. Everybody – Logic
3. La La Land – DVBBS & Shaun Frank ft. Delaney Jane
4. Galway Girl – Ed Sheeran
5. HUMBLE. – Kendrick Lamar
6. Slide – Calvin Harris ft. Frank Ocean & Migos 
7. Craving You – Thomas Rhett ft Maren Morris 
8. Unforgettable – French Montana ft. Swae Lee [I play this at least ONCE a day now to get hyped]
9. Slow Hands – Niall Horan
10. Lost Boy – Ruth B [LOVE THIS]
11. Myself – NAV
12. No Frauds – Nicki Minaj ft. Drake & Lil’ Wayne
13. That’s What I Like – Bruno Mars
14. I’m The One – DJ Khaled ft. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper & Lil’ Wayne
15. The Night We Met – Lord Huron
16. Shining – DJ Khaled ft Beyonce & Jay Z
17. Beibs In The Trap – Travis Scott ft NAV
18. Passionfruit – Drake [Duh, he is bae]
19. Green Light – Lorde
20. Something Just Like This – The Chainsmokers ft Coldplay

 

Netflix & Chill

Trying to find a show to binge watch on your sick days (or just to fill free time lolz)? I’ve got you covered. Here are some of my favourite shows to binge watch or even re-watch on Netflix:

Riverdale

This show is a dark twist on the Archie comics and I love every bit of it. It’s crazy, it’s funny, and I love Veronica’s style!

13 Reasons Why

Captivating plot and phenomenal acting by the whole cast! Also, the soundtrack is awesome! And, you literally want to give Clay a hug…all the time.

The Mindy Project

No show has been more relatable for me than this one. Mindy’s hilarious one liners and her need to excel at everything is so hilarious to watch!

Master of None

Okay, Aziz Ansari’s depiction of love on this show is hilarious. He’s cute and funny….is he single IRL?

The Crown

A show depicting Queen Elizabeth’s reign from the beginning? Sign me up! Seriously, this is so addictive! And allllll those crowns are gorgeous!

Stranger Things

This show follows a group of kids that are basically living D&D in real life. Also, I have a newfound love for eggos.

Bill Nye Saves The World

I literally relived my childhood watching this on Netflix. Billlll Nyyyeee The Sciencee guyyyy…Bill Bill Bill (okay I will stop now).

House Of Cards

I watched the first season in 13 hours and I haven’t stopped! Frank Underwood is a seriously deranged genius.

Gilmore Girls

Honestly, who doesn’t want to move to Stars Hollow and drink coffee at Luke’s? I literally watch an episode whenever I have free time…because why not.

Girlboss

A show about self-discovery and a twenty-something girl boss living her dream? Count me in. Also, the vintage fashion on this show is amazeballs.

Friends

This show NEVER fails to make me laugh. Seriously. If you’re having a sucky day, this is the show you need to watch.

Chasing Cameron

This reality show about a social media star is so addictively hilarious that I watched 4 episodes in one sitting. No lie. Can someone please give Taylor his diem!! lolz

GIFs courtesy of Giphy

How To Shop At Sephora

 

So you want to know how to shop at Sephora? Here are a few things I’ve learned since I practically live there (lolz):

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A LIST because if you go in without one you will..(I’m being thousand percent real here)…end up purchasing things you do not need solely because it swatches gorgeously on your hands!

If you’re going in without a list…I got you. Make sure you connect to the WIFI at Sephora (it’s legit free at all their locations) so that you can quickly google reviews…or go to your favourite bookmarked blog to see …*ahem*

Navigating through Sephora is literally like a fun maze. There are multiple brands and products everywhere…SO… 

ASK FOR HELP. The Sephora beauty experts that work there are geniuses (shout out to Sephora Square One for ALWAYS holding it down for me). You can ask them anything and they will always have immense knowledge of the items. Like seriously, what is non-touring? Why do I need to strobe!?

Being at a Sephora is an emotional roller coaster (one that I enjoy tbh). For example (this really happened): I went to a Sephora to purchase Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Liquid Lipstick in Heathers. I swatched it and fell in love…only to be told it was sold out in store…and then I realized it’s okay, I can order it online on their website.

Take advantage of their Skin IQ tester thingamabob (I’m sure there’s some scientific name). It literally matches to the closest shade in any foundation at Sephora. This makes it easier for the clerks and you to find the perfect foundation/concealer match!

Sign up for their Beauty Insiders program! Bruh, what you waiting for? It’s free and you get access to products and sales and freebies….AND A BIRTHDAY GIFT!

Be prepared to stand in line for….a while. (You can always order online)…

Sephora is notorious for giving out samples for free so ASK! If you’re a commitment phobe about certain products, then this is the perfect alternative for you!

Don’t forget to check out their sale section, whether in store or online. I’ve gotten nail polish for like $3 before..which normally retails for $12. Score.

HAVE FUN! I know it can be overwhelming but if you’re a beauty junkie like me…this place is better than Disneyland.

Make sure you follow me on all my socials! All the GIFs are from Giphy!

What To Wear To A Fashion Show

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending International Fashion Encounter’s Fashion Show/SuperModel Canada Search contest (thanks Toronto Fashion Academy for hooking it up) and I figured why not share with you all the wisdom I’ve gained about fashion shows! So without further adieu here are some tips on what you should wear at a fashion show:

1. Wear your the uncomfortable fashionable pair of shoes you own: Listen, you’re going to be sitting for 85% of the night, so might as well make use of THAT pair of heels you have a love/hate relationship with. Also, you don’t have to wear heels, you can wear boots, flats, sandals etc. Just don’t wear sneakers unless they’re like blinged out Yeezys, speaking of which…has Kanye put out blinged out Yeezys yet?
2. Use a bold pop of colour so you stick out: Honestly, this can be the colour of your outfit, shoes, accessories and/or makeup. Just make sure it’s bold enough to stand out! I wore a bold magenta lip to offset my all black look (clearly I don’t have a soul). Also, I wore a tarnished gold jewelry to match the gold detailing on my ankle boots (see details matter because other fashionistas at this thing are doing it…and probably judging…okay maybe not…but you catch my drift).
3. Carry the most expensive or expensive looking purse you own: I’m not telling you to go buy that Louis Vuitton AM you’ve been craving (or maybe I am) but this is the perfect time to whip out that purse you have hidden in its dust bag because you don’t want to ruin it (I carried my Marc Jacobs Crossbody). Or if you really want to be bold, you can carry that all-glitter clutch you bought because why not (just me?).
4. Wear loads of blingy jewelry: Okay, maybe not loads but enough so you’ve frosted yourself (if you know what I’m referencing, tweet me…shameless promo). You want to be classy and subtle yet fashionable. One of the ladies from the Real Housewives of Toronto attended the show and she had probably one of the most beautiful blinged chokers I’ve ever seen!
5. Be Unique..so…add your personality to your whole look: You don’t want to look like everyone else because you are NOT everyone else. You are you and make sure everyone around you is aware of all your awesomeness. One of the attendees wore a light up pocket square as a part of his all dark pant/suit. Can you say amazing?! There was also someone in all silver..and when I say all silver..he painted his face and dyed his hair silver…SLAY.
6. You don’t need to go ALL out, this isn’t Prom: Okay, no one needs to see excessive body parts or over the top gowns…this is a CLASSY affair so keep it simple and keep it classy! Dress like you’re going to be photographed for a profile picture that’s going to be your picture for your whole life (does that even make sense? if it doesn’t I’m sorry..no I’m not. whatever).
7. Go through your closet before you purchase anything for your #OOTN…: Honestly, majority of the reason why I attend any event that requires me to put in copious amounts of efforts is because of Instagram (what has my life come to). Yes, you want to look spiffy…but NO, you do not need to spend a ton. Last time I went to this very fashion show, I dug out my closet and found a dress I hadn’t worn with the tag still on it. I basically dressed it up to make it fashion worthy (cuz you know tip #5).
8. …and if you do want to purchase an item for your #OOTN, look for sales: This year I did purchase a dress for this particular show but believe me, I’m a bargain hunter and was able to find my outfit for 65% of its original price (YUS). So if you do need to buy something…go shopping for sales…FYI: obvs this is not a last-minute thing.
9. Make sure you have a phone charger handy: You’re going to be taking loads of pictures and updating your social media account all night long (again, what has my life really come to?) or you need an UBER…so make sure you’ve got a portable phone charger ready!
10. Eat before you go or have snacks handy: Fashion shows DO not serve food…because…obviously no one wants to promote eating (okay I’m not throwing shade I promise but it’s probz because no one wants to smear their makeup with food…although I wouldn’t care if they serve me McNuggets). Make sure you eat before hand or make a mickydees run after because these shows go on for a while and you will get hungry. Also, don’t drink on an empty stomach…not the prettiest thing AND make sure you bring cash for the bar.

But most of all, HAVE LOADS OF FUN! I truly have a blast each time I go to IFE’s shows. They’re fun, exciting and you really get a taste of what the fashion world in Toronto is like!

Head to Instagram to see what I wore! Abril Cereva designed the dress on the model above  and the picture is courtesy of Azmat’s Photography!

 

kisses,

S

Organizing Your Makeup 101

Hello Dolls! Hope you’re having a wonderful day! If you haven’t read my previous post, then you can do so by clicking right here. If you know me personally, then you’re already aware of my OCD-like obsession with being organized no matter what. In fact, I’ve blogged about this on many occasions (post 1, post 2). While going through probably the worst writer’s block of my lifetime (yes, this includes my uni days where writing about Aristotle seemed a lot easier than what I’ve been experiencing lately), I realized I have never shared with you how I organize my makeup! So without further adieu, here are some tips on how you can organize ALL your makeup!

1. Categorize: This is probably the most important factor of organizing just about anything and everything in your life…including makeup. What I like to do is keep all my foundations together, all my blushes together, all my eye shadows together, etc (you catch my drift yet?). This is essential because you want to be able to find your fav makeup item ASAP. Also, I categorize my makeup brushes according to that rule too.
2. Once you’ve categorized, one of the most important part of organizing is finding a space to put them: I mean you can buy different organizing tools (as you can see I have one devoted to all my MAC lipsticks) or you can create your own. The possibilities are endless and you can get as creative as you want (hello DIY). I have a drawer devoted to just foundations, concealers and setting powders. The reason why I grouped them like that is because I combine those 3 products at the same time, so why not have them altogether in one place?
3. In doing steps 1 and 2, you’ll come across old makeup or makeup you haven’t used (believe me these things expire quicker than you think and you don’t want to put stuff like that on your skin). One of the most important things you can do is, let it go, let it go! Okay, I am obviously too obsessed with Disney…but GET RID OF IT: You do not need makeup you haven’t used in more than a year because…you haven’t used it. It’s simple as that. Chances are you won’t use it again so why bother. This has always been the hardest thing for me to do but you know what? YOLO.
4. So you’ve categorized, made space for those categories, gotten rid of things you don’t need…now what? PUT THEM IN THE SPACE: This is probably my favourite part because you can be SUPER creative and very Instagram worthy, but you have to do it correctly. Add dividers in your drawers. Add trays to your makeup desk, make it pretty as you like or as simple as you want…it’s up to you!

And VOILA! You’ve now organized everything makeup related in your life…on to your closet…lolz.

Until next time,

kisses,

S

ps. WHY AREN’T YOU FOLLOWING ME ON INSTAGRAM? @DAFFDIARIES is where it’s at~

My Gym Playlist

Hello Dolls! Hope you’re having a splendid day! If you didn’t check out my previous blog post, then you can do so by clicking right here. Also, keep up with me on Instagram! As I mentioned in this post, I’ve finally got an updated gym playlist for you (this was on my playlist before...has it changed? You tell me)! Here are all the tunes that keep me motivated at the gym…even on those sluggish days. I’ve linked them, so you can click on the names and listen. Please don’t blame me for an impromptu dance party though 😏

1. Play Hard- David Guetta ft. Ne-Yo & Akon
2. Hotline Bling- Drake 
3. Shake It Off- Taylor Swift
4. Shape Of You- Ed Sheeran (IN LOVE)
5. Not Nice- Partynextdoor
6. Formation- Beyonce
7. Just Like That (Part 2) – Roy Woods
8. Worst Behaviour- Drake (I honestly forget I’m working out and I’m speaking to everything negative that’s in my life lolz)
9. Run Up – Major Lazer ft. Partynextdoor & Nicki Minaj (this one’s a new one I’m obsessed with!)
10. Bossy- Kelis
11. Flawless- Beyonce 
12. The Greatest-Sia
13. Started From The Bottom- Drake
14. Sorry- Justin Bieber
15. False Alarm- The Weeknd
16. I Just Wanna Love U- Jay Z ft. Pharrell 
17. Only Girl- Rihanna
18. Fade-Kanye West
19. 24K Magic- Bruno Mars 
20. Crazy In Love – Beyonce and Jay Z

Now you know the real reason why I’m always jamming out at the gym 😛

See you in the post!

kisses,

S

PS…a bollywood version is coming your way 😉

How To Get A Killer Workout

Why hello dolls! Hope you’re having a phenomenal day! If you haven’t checked out my previous blog post, then you can do so by clicking right here! Also, make sure you’re following me on all my socials listed at the top of this page! Now that I’m trying to get into a daily gym routine (it’s hard let’s be real…I’d rather Netflix & eat nachos), I thought I’d share with you 10 ways you can get a killer workout, whether you are at the gym or at home! I am by no means an expert, so don’t judge me or you can (lolz…) 

1. GET A KILLER PLAYLIST TOGETHER: A great playlist really makes a HUGE difference when you’re trying to get a workout in. I think I blogged about this in the past, but maybe I’ll post an updated playlist next week. My current fav song that gets me super pumped is David Guetta’s Play Hard (so hyppeee).
2. PINTEREST/YOUTUBE WORKOUTS: Pinterest is one of my favourite places to go to look at different workouts. Especially for ones I do at home. Majority of the pins have pictures showing you how to do the workout and what part of the body you are targeting. Youtube is great too…and so is Instagram.
3. INVEST IN CUTE WORKOUT CLOTHES & GEAR: Majority of the reason why I’m even hitting the gym more is so that I can wear my Ivy Park gym swag (thank you Beyonce). Going workout clothes/gear shopping in itself motivates you to hit the gym more. On those sluggish days you don’t want to go, think about the CUTE stuff you can rock…also, why not throw in taking a selfie too!
4. FIND A GYM BUDDY or BUDDIES: Having a gym buddy or a group of friends who want to hit the gym with you is SO motivating because it makes working out fun! You’ll hit your fitness goals quicker by motivating and pushing one another to hit them. Plus, think of all the cute selfies and boomerangs you can take (I know all for the Instagram).
5. WANTING TO READ THAT BOOK? DOWNLOAD AN AUDIOBOOK TO LISTEN WHILE WORKING OUT!: So, I never thought I’d say this but listening to an audiobook while working out (especially on cardio days) is pretty effective. You’re focused and you’re getting to listen to a book. Plus, it helps you get through your workout quicker! So head to your local library and get yourself a free audiobook to download and listen to!
6. SET REALISTIC WORKOUT GOALS: So this is probably one of the most important aspects of getting a killer workout as well as making sure you hit the gym on a schedule. When you set realistic workout goals, you’re motivated to go back and not be bored. For example, I try not to do the same activity for the same amount every time I workout. Also, I start off easy and build my workouts with each day. This way you see progress and you’re not overworking yourself (hello, you don’t want to be injured).
7. FIND AN APP TO TRACK YOUR WORKOUTS: I’ve been using the Fitbit app to track my workouts and I can’t explain to you how much of a difference it has made in me achieving my fitness goals. With any fitness app, you can track all your fitness activity PLUS your daily food/water intake. I love this because I don’t drink a lot of a water daily and by tracking it, I drink more! Also, don’t forget with apps you can set daily, weekly, and monthly goals…which in itself is super rewarding when you hit them! AND AND AND, if you’ve got friends with the same app, you can challenge one another to healthy competitions (SO motivating).
8. INVEST IN A FITBIT OR AN EQUIVALENT: If you asked me about this 6 months ago, I’d tell you that you are crazy for investing in something that tracks your steps. BUT, now that I’ve been using my Fitbit for a few months, I can say that it was def one of the best investments I’ve made because it motivates me to get up more and hit my target steps. So if you don’t want to hit the gym or do a home workout, you can track your steps daily. This way you’re getting fit by doing normal everyday things.
9. START TO CHANGE YOUR DIET & HYDRATE YOURSELF: Eating healthy is important especially if you’re putting in all that energy in your workouts. You need to fuel yourself! The best way to do this is by eating healthy (you know more veggies and all that). I’m still working on this aspect, so I can’t preach what I don’t completely follow always (I have more cheat days sometimes). BUT you can make little changes (replace sugar with honey, drink pop only once a week, eat protein after a workout etc). ALSO, MAKE SURE YOU DRINK A LOT OF WATER! Dehydration+gym/workout= more tiredness and sluggishness. Avoid that at all costs!
10. HAVE FUN AND HAVE A POSITIVE MENTALITY: This one’s the most important one if you ask me. You won’t achieve anything by working out if it’s not fun. So, don’t do the same thing at the gym every single day because you will get bored. Change it up. Day 1 can be cardio and day 2 could be weights and day 3 could be a yoga class. Also, you need to have a positive outlook on getting fit. Don’t do it to just lose weight but do it to get fit and think of it as a fun physical challenge. If you look at it negatively, you will burn out and not go back.

See you in the next post!

kisses,

S