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You guys. I saw a movie this week in the theater, the first time I’ve gone all year. And I cried. A lot. Not super proud of this. But when I got home and went on the internet, I realized I wasn’t alone. In fact, tons of people on the internet were admitting to crying during the movie.

Some of you may already know this, but during the week I work a full time job in the entertainment industry. I won’t bore you with the details of my work, but I do want to touch upon this time of year and the movies that are coming out. Now that we’re into summer blockbuster season, all of the studios are putting their best foot forward out with their biggest movies of the year, hoping for massive hits. So I like to think that when I see movies in the theater I’m just doing my job ; ).

All the Feels Around Female Superheroes and Empowerment | by The Luxi Look

All the Feels Around Female Superheroes and Empowerment

When I first saw the trailer for Wonder Woman I wasn’t really all that impressed. I’ve seen my fair share of superhero movies (again, just doing market research!) and while they’re consistently ok to enjoyable, they never really blew me away. From a business and consumer perspective, I understood the appeal of a female superhero and applauded Hollywood’s decisions to finally give Wonder Woman a chance on the silver screen and allow a female director, Patty Jenkins, to lead the charge.

What I didn’t expect was how much I would come to love the film, and how I found myself crying unexpectedly less than 10 minutes into the film. And again several times again later on in the film. What was happening?!

Hoping I wasn’t the only one that had this strange reaction to seeing Gal Gadot fight the bad guys in Wonder Woman, I searched Google high and low for the following: “why did Wonder Woman make me cry?

All the Feels Around Female Superheroes and Empowerment

All the Feels Around Female Superheroes and Empowerment | by The Luxi Look

This article summed up my thoughts perfectly.

Representation is important. The overwhelming dominance of men (and particularly white men) in powerful roles throughout cinema and in media generally is taken for granted, and we don’t even realize the absence of other people — and how it affects us in real life to see or not see images that reflect us on-screen.

Why should these stories — and the telling of them — be the exclusive province of men? Women are bursting into tears in theaters because they didn’t even know how much they wanted and needed this.

If girls and women can see themselves depicted as powerful women in their own right (as opposed to being the girlfriend or wife of a main character), it makes an impact. 

So. Many. Feels.

I get that this isn’t a big deal for everyone – but the reaction many are having to the film is incredibly powerful. Seeing Wonder Woman as such a strong, inspiring character on the screen and then seeing that translating into the film’s incredibly box office success speaks volumes about the state of the industry. The reactions and conversations that have come as a result of this film is also tremendous. For me, the film really resonated with me on a personal level, especially when I think about the kind of space I want my blog to be. I’m beyond proud to be part of communities of strong, driven girl bosses – from the blogging community, to the media and entertainment industries, to my best friends from college.

A preppy orange jumpsuit by The Luxi Look

What many people don’t realize is how empowering fashion can be.

How what you wear can be a direct reflection of your mood and personality and how fun it is to express yourself through your outfit. BTW – Wonder Woman’s uniform was on. point. 

My style continues to evolve – but I always tend to gravitate towards bright colors, patterns, and prints (with a scattering of neutrals). Bright colors make me happy, they’re the sometimes much needed reminder to be positive, look on the bright side, and always remember to create my own sunshine.

That’s why I continue to love pieces from Australian line Mister Zimi. I’m wearing the Charlie jumpsuit in red, but I also love it in this print and this print.

What makes you feel strong and empowered?

xx, Amy

necklace: sticks + stones

jumpsuit: mister zimi | necklace: sticks + stones

jumpsuit: mister zimi | necklace: sticks + stones

We are officially into swimsuit season everyone! The start of summer can lead to anxiety and panic around looking ‘swimsuit ready’ (which we’ll cover in a series of posts over this summer, from the mental aspect of feeling confident in a swimsuit to the actual physical components of looking and feeling your best). Something I can say from personal experience – if you find the perfect swimsuit that not only fits well but is actually flattering, you might be much more inclined to hit the pool all summer long. Even if you’re only wearing a swimsuit a handful of times a year, quality does matter! That’s why I’ve rounded up a variety of different types of swimsuits to wear this summer.

My Favorite Picks: Different Types of Swimsuits to Wear This Summer

[ Click on the images to shop the product! ]

Marysia Venice Bikini

How cute is this blush colored swimsuit?! It also comes in black if that’s more of your thing. Marysia suits are classic and incredibly well made (I LOVE the Antibes bikini) – they hold up well whether you’re sunbathing or in the water and the scalloped material is so flattering as it doesn’t tug or squeeze any parts of your body you don’t want to be squeezed.

Lovers + Friends Bikini

We all know gingham is the it print this year, so finding a gingham printed suit to wear is a no brainer. The ruffle detail is not only feminine, it can also help create the illusion of curves if you are straighter framed or small chested.

Kaohs Little Black Bikini

This little black bikini is hot, hot, hot! Especially love how the skinny straps and bandeau shape are a little different from the usual triangle or halter tops. The brand “Kaohs” is new to me and so far I’ve loved every piece I’ve seen. Definitely thinking of scooping up this top for an upcoming vacation.

For Love & Lemons Triangle Bikini

Everything For Love & Lemons is so good, and their swim collection is no exception. This white bikini is minimal and simple, but the fabric and cut will leave you feeling way more comfortable and confident than you would in any other teeny suit.

Solid and Striped One Piece

My absolute favorite suit from last summer. Taylor Swift + squad are fans. You can’t beat the flattering vertical stripes, figure flattering material, and low back. Cheeky but not too revealing – perfect for any family engagements you may have this summer. It also comes in so many fun colors, it’s hard to resist scooping up more than one.

Stay tuned for more fun summer and swim related posts!

xx, Amy

 

 

You know the feeling when you find something that’s almost too good to be true? That’s how I felt when I stumbled upon FashionPass.

How many times have you walked into your closet and thought you had absolutely nothing to wear?

Maybe you saw the cutest dress that would look AMAZE for a wedding or party – but you knew you would only wear it once and didn’t want to spend half a paycheck on it.

Same thing for a vacation / concert / girls night out (VEGAS TRIP) / work event. There are SO many occasions that come up every year where you want something new and cute to wear but don’t want to spend a ton of money on it.

Or you and your besties have swapped clothes a million times over and you still have NOTHING TO WEAR.

Haute and Borrowed – A Little Secret to Having the Perfect Closet – Meet Your New BFF, FashionPass

Enter FashionPass. To be honest, I’m more than a little obsessed.

woman wearing white pants and top from Haute and Borrowed

woman smiling

woman in all white outfit from Haute and Borrowed

I first came across the company on Instagram and since then have even met the founder, Brittany (who btw, is a TOTAL girlboss! – should I do a feature on her?!). I instantly fell in love with her business and vision and knew I wanted to share it with you guys ASAP. Full disclaimer: I’m an actual customer of Haute & Borrowed and I couldn’t love the service more.

Think of having an endless, rotating closet with filled with some of the most on trend brands (think: The Jetset Diaries, Nightcap, Blue Life, Stylestalker, and more) for as low as $69/month. Umm if you’re like me and love having something new to wear and these contemporary brands, you’ll know what a big deal this is!

[ This dreamy white jumpsuit I’m wearing in these photos is from FashionPass! ]

woman smiling and holding her hair

A Little Secret to Having the Perfect Closet - Meet Your New BFF, Haute & Borrowed | by The Luxi Look

A Little Secret to Having the Perfect Closet - Meet Your New BFF, Haute & Borrowed | by The Luxi Look

Want to learn more? Here’s why you might be just as obsessed with FashionPass as I am:

Why FashionPass is Basically the Best Thing Ever

+ It’s so simple. You choose a monthly plan that best suits your social calendar (choose between 2, 3, or 4 clothing items at a time), pick the pieces YOU want, and swap them out whenever you feel like getting something new. Shipping and dry cleaning is covered, so all you have to do is wear the item, look cute, and send it back. Oh, and new items always come in 2 days!

+ Super on trend contemporary brands and styles (and new styles being added every week). So far I’ve rented this dress, this jumpsuit, and cannot WAIT to wear this spicy little maxi to a wedding this month!

+ Do the math. Why buy a $500 dress when you can rent as many as you want over a month’s time for a fraction of the price?! I feel like I have an endless closet at my disposal now : ).

+ Personal styling. Need something last minute for a birthday party this weekend? Or not so sure if a dress is wedding appropriate? FashionPass provides personal styling tips and suggestions so you never have to worry about wearing the wrong item for the occasion.

+ Amazing customer service. The founders care so much that every customer is not only satisfied with their product (I guarantee you will look fly AF in their clothes!) but also has the best experience with the service from start to finish.

Dying to try it out for yourself? Use my discount code THELUXILOOK for $20 off your first month of membership. That means unlimited rentals for an entire month for only $49 (!!) – a fraction of one item from Revolve. I really, truly love this service and hope you guys too : ). Check it out for yourself and LMK what you think!

xx, Amy

jumpsuit: the jetset diaries | earrings: vanessa mooney

photos by nicole balsamo

A Little Secret to Having the Perfect Closet - Meet Your New BFF, Haute & Borrowed | by The Luxi Look

woman walking near the street

woman in white top and pants

It’s funny how over the years bloggers have increasingly become style icons. Even before I started my own, I always looked to fashion bloggers for styling tips and inspirations. One of the first bloggers I connected with when I started was Christine, of Daily Kongfidence. Her style is always effortless and on trend, yet simultaneously timeless and elegant. Little did I know this super stylish lady was also a mama to 3 adorable kiddos! I’m not a mom yet, but I knew right away I wanted to pick her brain on her blog, personal style, time management tips, and being a mom! Read on below to learn more about Christine, who is definitely a style icon you should check out.
Getting Up Close and Personal with the Brains & Beauty Behind Daily Kongfidence | by The Luxi Look

Meet Christine from Daily Kongfidence

Introduce yourself and your blog!

Hi, my name is Christine Kong of @dailykongfidence and Daily Kongfidence.  I started my blog a year ago (seven months after I started my Instagram account) to provide more than just photos of my outfits.  I wanted a place for my readers to go to get style tips and advice, why I pick certain accessories or statement pieces to create a look, and also to see a more personal side of me that you don’t get off the little squares of Instagram from my personality through my writing, lifestyle choices, to motivational posts.
How would you describe your style?
My style is consistent with my Southern CA upbringing.  It’s pretty casual, basic, minimal, but with a little edge.  I love to keep the outfit simple, but add statement pieces to finish off the look.  A statement piece could be anything from a jacket, to a bag, to shoes, or even a necklace.  Overall, I’d like to say my style is basic, but not boring. (<< LOVE this!)
Daily Kongfidence | by The Luxi Look
Daily Kongfidence | by The Luxi Look
You manage to incorporate current trends into your style while still maintaining a classic and effortless look. What’s your advice to girls when it comes to juggling the two and mixing high and low?  

I love mixing high and low price points.  I’m a firm believer that just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it looks good.  I have found so many affordable pieces from Forever 21, H&M, and even Amazon that get plenty of compliments and have even lasted through the years.  And let’s not forget about my love for Zara.  I can easily add ten items to my cart every time I shop online.

For my every day basics, I tend to invest in quality materials (“basics” would be like tee shirts, white button down shirt, leather jackets, jeans) because honestly, the fit matters in these and I will wear them till they literally fall apart.  I also have an affinity for luxury bags and shoes just because I do have daughters that I can pass them down to (that’s my excuse and I am sticking to it) and dainty gold jewelry.

How has your style evolved over the years?

Oh gosh, it really has evolved, yet in the same sense, if you ask my mom how I was in my teenage years, she would say I was always seeking the latest trends.  Being in my 30’s and also being a mom, I seek comfort more than anything else.  Comfort in the traditional sense, but also in the sense where I’m comfortable in my outfit – like I am not tugging at the hemline, sucking in my belly, trying too hard, just comfortable and confident.  I used to also wear a lot of color (I know, a shocker) and wear a lot of dresses (another shocker), but now I tend to stick with neutrals and lots of denim.
Where do you turn to for inspiration?
You know how we joke that there are a gazillion bloggers out there?  And there really are!  But whether they have 2K followers or 1M followers, I have found so many beautifully curated looks and feeds that I am blown away by how talented people are these days!  I mean, just look at Pinterest – what did we do before that?  So for blogging, I turn to the bloggers for inspiration from the Instagram feeds to their actual blogs.  I wish people would spend more time reading blogs because there are so many incredible stories, journeys, and positivity out there.  For mom inspiration or life in general, I turn to those around me.  Everyone has a story and if you care to listen, it’s amazing what you can learn and get inspired from!
Asian blogger

Getting Up Close and Personal with the Brains & Beauty Behind Daily Kongfidence | by The Luxi Look

You’re also a super fabulous mom of three (!!) – seriously, how do you do it all?!

You are too sweet.  Yes, I am a mom of three kids and I am fortunate enough to stay at home with them.  I picked up blogging to actually inspire other moms out there yet ironically I don’t post as a #momblogger nor ever show my kids on my feed (blame my overprotective hubbie for that). =)  I try to squeeze in blogging, photo shoots, writing content, events, emails, etc, in the times I am not in “mom mode” and I guess over the past year or so I’ve just gotten really good at time management and being efficient when I do something.  Don’t get me wrong, every day I struggle and am rushed for time, but I am fortunate to be able to support my kids at home and at school while also doing what I am passionate about.

What’s your workout routine?

I used to be a workout fanatic, going to the gym every weekday if possible.  To be honest, blogging actually took the place of me working out so much because I did have to give up some of my time to fit it all in.  But this year I have made an effort and commitment to myself to get healthy and strong again.  I run on the treadmill 2-3x a week and also do weights alternating between lower body, upper body, abs and full body 3x a week.  If I don’t have time to hit the gym, I do BBG at home since that is a quick 28 minute workout but really gets me into shape.

Any diet tips and tricks for busy moms and women on the go?

Lately I have been meal planning which sounds like a lot of work, but really it saves me time during the week.  I prepare my lunches and dinners on Sunday night so that I have all my meals ready for the week.  The only downside is that you eat the same boring meal every day, but it’s healthy, already premade when you eat it, so basically a win-win.  And for breakfast I usually eat overnight oats (also prepared the night before to save time in the morning), egg white omelet, avocado toast, but first, always a latte.

Asian blogger
Getting Up Close and Personal with the Brains & Beauty Behind Daily Kongfidence | by The Luxi Look
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced blogging and balancing everything in life in general?
To be honest I think my biggest challenge with blogging is the business of it all.  When I first started it really was just for fun (before I realized how detailed and involved it was) and while it is still a passion for me, sometimes you get caught up in the numbers, the followers, the likes, and then it takes away from why I started this in the first place.  Growing organically is always a challenge but I keep trying to post content that I am proud of, work with brands that I connect with, and just keep it real and hope that eventually it all pays off.
Balancing will always be an issue.  With social media it’s always about your last post or what’s hot or on trend.  If you’re not on, you feel like you’re missing out.  I’ve learned to just take a step back and free my weekends for family time (meaning no posts) and only post when I feel good about the content I am putting out there and not post just for the sake of posting. << Totally agree! Quality > Quantity ALWAYS.
How do you stay motivated?
The thing that has helped me get out of a funk the most is really going back to what made me want to do this in the first place.  We often get bogged down by the every day responsibilities or technicalities and then there is the comparing against others and we let ourselves get down.  When that happens, I sit myself down and focus back to why.  The why is important to never lose sight of.  Because whatever you do, as long as you are getting closer to that why you started and that end goal, the rest doesn’t even matter.
Interviewing Christine Kong
Interviewing Christine Kong What are the last three clothing items you bought?

I purchased an amazing off the shoulder bikini off Amazon for under $20 for a trip, my first pair of 501 Levi’s which I LOVE, and this Zara crop top with exaggerated shoulders.

What are your go-to beauty products?

If you’re asking what I never leave home without is sunscreen, my eyebrows, and mascara.  These are my must-haves for me to leave the house.  If I don’t have those on, you don’t even want to see me.  For sunscreen I am a HUGE fan of Elta MD.  For my brows I use Anastasia DipBrow Pomade and Benefit’s Brow Zing.  For mascara, I have used Maybelline Waterproof for years.  I’ve tried other brands but I have always gone back to Maybelline.  As far as skincare products, I am a huge believer in Essence, serums, and sheet masks (it’s the Korean in me).

Favorite brands you’ve discovered through blogging?

There are so many amazing brands (just like bloggers) and it’s hard to pick just a few.  Minusey is a Korean company I discovered where they make statement pieces and the latest looks at an affordable cost, but using high quality fabrics.  They remind me a lot of Storets (another brand I discovered through blogging), but have yet to work with.  Mejuri is a jewelry line that I truly love.  They make the daintiest, everyday pieces from real gold at amazing prices.  I love them so much I actually buy many gifts from them for my friends and family.  I also just discovered DSTLD which is an LA company that makes premium denim and luxury essentials but at an affordable cost.  Just got some high waisted jeans and a white leather jacket from them that I am so excited about.

What are three trends you’re loving for summer?

We’ve all seen the statement sleeves, but lately I have been drawn to the statement shoulders.  I just purchased some tops with exaggerated shoulders and I am so excited to wear them because they just exude confidence and poise.  The other trend I love is white accessories.  I love the way white pops in a look so I recently added some white sunglasses to my collection and also obsessed with white shoes from pumps to mules to sneakers.  The last trend that appeals to my more casual/ basic side is slogan tees.  I love a tee and denim look and I am glad brands like Gucci, Levi’s, and Tommy Hilfiger are making slogan tees that can be worn casually but also dressed up with a mini skirt or a pleated maxi skirt.

For more of Christine’s rockstar style, travel adventures, and daily adventures, be sure to check out her blog and Instagram.

Backpacks have a rep for being dorky and reminiscent of high school. Fair enough. I’ve always been a fan though – even if they look “dorky” (whatever!). The reason being they are 100% more practical and useful than a handbag and these days the options on the market are seriously cute. There’s no reason not to own and use one, and to be honest I’m totally digging backpacks over a purse.

5 Reasons Why I’m Digging Backpacks Over a Purse

  1. SO much more functional. If nothing else, you know you’re choosing the practical choice – it really does make your life so much easier!!
  2. They fit so much more than a crossbody bag or your typical purse.
  3. Multiple compartments. Need I say more?
  4. They’re travel friendly – you get to live your life hands free and don’t have to lug a heavy bag across town (I’m always super paranoid that I’ll somehow end up permanently lopsided if I carry a heavy tote bag everywhere).
  5. Say goodbye to back/shoulder pain. Beauty is (sometimes) pain, but it doesn’t have to be!

woman in cropped top and denim shorts sharing why she loves Backpacks Over a Purse

woman sitting and sharing why she loves Backpacks Over a Purse

woman leaning on a wall and sharing why she loves Backpacks Over a Purse

Some of my favorite backpacks:

Botkier – this is the one I am carrying in the photos. It reminds me of the Prada Nylon backpacks people used to carry. I really like this one from Botkier – the material is easy to clean (especially when you are like me and somehow manage to get everything dirty) and all of the zippers and pockets make it easy to keep my bag somewhat organized. It also comes in a black leather and metallic leather (<< WANT!) that I love.

Sticks + Stones – I received SO many compliments on this backpack when I wore it to Coachella. The pebbled leather, studs, and foldover flap is really unique and unlike anything else I’ve seen in stores. I can absolutely vouch for the quality of the bag and know that this is a piece I’ll be wearing for years to come.

Hershel – where was this backpack when I was in school?! I actually stole my boyfriend’s because I just loved it so much. Call me basic but we’ve brought ours with us everywhere we’ve travelled to over the past two years. I recently got a floral version so now we have his + hers ; ).

woman sitting on a step

woman in blue top, shorts and sunglasses

Why I'm Totally Digging Backpacks Over a Purse Right Now

I’ll definitely be bringing a backpack (or two) along with me on my summer travels! Speaking of which, where is everyone off to for the holiday weekend?

xx, Amy

top: 12th tribe | shorts: re/done | bag: botkier | shoes: botkier

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