Opinion: Self-Esteem

I went to dinner today with some old friends from high school and while I was waiting to be shown to a table a few girls walked in, they couldn't be more than 13 or 14 years old, wearing mini skirts and high heels at a casual restaurant. I thought to myself, how insecure of themselves they must feel to dress like that at such a young age. Obviously, times have changed from 6-7 years ago when I was at that stage of life; media influence is much higher, standards are set, and the word perfect is everywhere. I mean everywhere. When I got home after dinner, I came across a website where the headline said "7 ways to get perfect picture face"  and the tips were just so ridiculous I couldn't believe it. They were talking about how to get the perfect nose and the perfect eye shape. Perfect, perfect, perfect. It really bothered me because who decides what perfect is anyway. 

We are all unique and maintain our individuality through who we are and that includes every eye and every nose. People who want to change their entire face every morning to look like they are perfect don't make sense to me. Every quality  you have makes you who you are and that should never be changed or switched for a 200 dollar make-up routine. 

I don't want this to sound like another cheesy, "love yourself" speech, but I think it's important to make sure we always stay true to ourselves and remember who we really are. We need to remember what make-up can't change, what photoshop can't fix, and what clothing can't hide.

Chin up gorgeous, your stunning. 

The Name Game

I thought I would dive in and talk more in-depth about the name of my blog. I wanted to think of something clever but equally witty that would describe and what this blog is all about. I thought about what I wanted readers to think at first glance and what I wanted them to know about me. I came up with A Byte Of Simplicity.

It made sense to me in the end, I didn't want the blog to be scattered and confusing, I wanted it to be clear cut and understandable, a place where "my girl" could come and find everything she was looking for. Hence, Simplicity.

The Byte came in after. I originally wanted it to be "The Bite of Simplicity." But it wasn't personal enough for me. I really want my readers to know me for who I am. As a media student, I put a play on Bite into Byte. A Byte, for those who don't know, is a unit of digital measure in computing. A byte is the number of bits used to encode a single character of information into a computer. One byte is equalled to 8 bits. Therefore, this blog represents the 8 bits of me. Each category you see represents a part of me/something I'm interested in: Fashion, Beauty, Entertainment, Top 10s, Student Life, Around the World, Life (as in mine), Posts of the Week. This is where the name of the blog comes in. The "8 bits of my life" as I like to call them. 8 bits = 1 byte. A Byte of Simplicity.

I wanted to find a picture that represented simplicity for me and chose this.
This is simplicity.

Make- Up Essentials

Every girls needs to start their make-up collection somewhere, and sometimes it can be overwhelming especially in deciding what products to start with, whether to buy drugstore or high end, determining your skin type etc. That's why I've decided to talk about what I think are make-up essential every girl must have in her collection. I think I said in a previous post that I've really only been into make-up for about a year now, so I am not professional, believe me. The items that are listed below are what I believe to be products that would be good places to start and invest.

I'll never go back. Love this product
http://www.garnier.ca

1. A good moisturizer. Honestly, without a good moistrurizer your entire face routine can get the domino effect and products will not take to their full potential. For the longest time I was using the Neutrogena Moisture Oil-Free for combination skin and thought it was the best thing ever. Then, a make-up artist asked me what moistruizer I was using, I told her, she told me to stop. Apparently it was drying out skin really badly and I hadn't even noticed. I now use the Garnier Skin Naturals Shine Control Moisturizer and I will never go back. It's amazing, I noticed an immediate difference in my skin.

2. Foundation- This is probably the most difficult one to choose especially when first starting your collection. The good thing is that there will always be a shade to match yours skin tone. If you are looking for something basic, I would try a drugstore brand first. L'Oreal, Revlon, Neutrogena, and Rimmel all have great foundations to start with. You do want to be conscious of your skin type when choosing a foundation, for example if you have oily skin choose a foundation that is oil-free and is long lasting or all day wear. If you have dry skin choose a foundation that says hydrate, and finally if you have acne prone skin, for your skins sake, choose one oil-free and made for sensitive skin. If you do want to move on to high end foundations check out Make Up Forever (Mat +), Chanel, and Dior foundations.

Physicians Formula Matchmaker Blush
gives the face a nice, defined glow.
http://www.physiciansformula.com  .

3. Blush- or bronzer, just gives you that extra little bit of glow when needed. The vast pigmentations allow you to get a more natural look or give you a pink sweep. I prefer blushes with peachy undertones, they look  more natural on my skin tone.  I use blushes especially when I look tired ( at school...) and I need that bit of color to make the rest of my face look alive again. There are plenty of blushes out there, you are bound to find some you love!

4. Eyeliner- I do not know what I would do without my eyeliner! I think you can ask anyone I know and they would tell you how much I love my eyeliner. The great thing about eyeliner is that you can make it bold and dramatic or simple and natural. Also, it comes in loads of shades which, if used properly, can make your eyes pop. I prefer liquid liner for lining my lid but pencil for lining my waterline. This is where it comes down to personal preference, I know some people who hate pencil and some who hate liquid. TIP: If you are lining your lid and waterline, use two different colors on the bottom and top if you are not going for a smokey eye. By doing so, your eyes will look bigger. I tend to use brown liner on my lid and black on my waterline.

This is the newest Maybelline mascara.
I love it for a more natural lash.
 http://www.maybelline.com 

5. Mascara- If you have lighter eyelashes guaranteed mascara is your best friend. Everyone wants dark, full lashes and the right mascara can accomplish this for you.It's also great for covering eyeshadow fall out. Mascara is a trial and error product, each mascara does something different for everyone's lashes. There are, however, great great drugstore mascaras, you don't have to spend a ton of money to get a good one. I love the Maybelline mascaras they have some natural ones and some dramatic ones. No matter what other mascara I try, these always come back into my makeup bag.

6. Eyeshadow- of course. I think the ultimate eye shadow must haves are neutral colors. Having a neutral color or color pallet is so versatile; you can dress them up or wear them casually as everyday looks. The good thing with pallets is that all the neutral colors compliment each other so when you are in a rush you don't really have to think about too much while doing your eye makeup.

EOS lipbalm is great because its all
natural. I have this one in summer fruit.
http://evolutionofsmooth.com

7. Lip balm- I think this is pretty standard in any make-up collection. Using lip balm keeps your lips healthy and hydrated. I have a few so I can keep them in different spots so I will always have access to them.

8. Lipgloss- can be your best friend for everyday or going out at night. The range of shades allows you to make your lips pop or give a neutral glow. I think most girls prefer gloss over lipstick when beginning their collection because its less intimidating and you don't have to think about how to wear it.

9, Brushes- There is a distinct difference between how your make-up applies with brushes vs. sponges. Once I switched to using brushes I never went back. Brushes apply make-up more evenly and smoothly and even use less product than sponges.

10. Tools- Eyelash curler, tweezers, Q-tips etc.

Optional but worth it:
- Brow pencil
- Primers (Face/Eye Shadow)
- Lipstick
-Concealer (if you need it)
-Finishing Powder

Tada. Now go shopping :)

How to make the most of August

Summer is slowly coming to an end which means we have just over a month until it's back to school. This section of my list will be dedicated to my student side meaning I will be sharing tips and tricks how to get through school, exams, work etc.

Today its how to make the best of the last month of summer before we are all hitting the books again. My suggestion is make a bucket list. Everything you said you wanted to do this summer and never got around to it write it down. Here are just a few ideas that I think would make the perfect end to summer and my bucket list for you!

1- Plan a roadtrip! Even if its just for one night or for the day, a roadie with friends could be just what you need to end the summer.
2- Shop - Write down a list of everything you wanted to buy over the summer and never got around to. Toward the middle of August buy a few things off the list. I promise it will make you feel better about the summer ending
3- Buy new school supplies or fun things for your room- even if its just pens, it is always fun to use new school stuff for the first time.
4-Girls night- sometimes all you need is a little help from your friends. Watch some chick flicks, admire Channing Tatum, and make Margaritas
5- Spend some time with the fam! Once school rolls around you won't have time to see them, or if you go away for school like myself you won't be able to see them for a while
6- Beach- Pick up your fave beach book and sit on the sand and relax before life gets crazy
7- Get your nails did- mani/pedis. enough said.

Here's my bucket list!
1- Karaoke Bar- me and my friend have been wanting to do this forever! We are planning to go this Thursday.
2- Start my blog (check)
3- Buy new storage for my makeup and brushes- found some great contenders at Dollerama
4- Road Trip- my roadtrip actually turned into a trip to DISNEY with my two best friends. We leave in a few weeks! So very excited
5- Bonfire and BBQ
6- Beach trip
7- Take as many drop in classes as possible (I'm a Hip Hop dancer)
8- Sell some jewellery - I make jewellery and used to sell it quite often before I went away for school. I'm hoping to get back into it!
9- Harry Potter Movie Marathon- only because I haven't seen them in a while.

That's all folks. Here's to August!

Olympics:Canada's first medal!

photcredit:http://fulltwist.net/tag/london-2012-olympics/

Today was an wonderful day for Canada at the London 2012 Olympics because we got out first medal thanks to Jennifer Able and Emilie Heymans. They came 3rd in 3m synchro diving and were awarded the bronze medal after China and the US today. Social media feeds LIT UP with warm wishes and congratulations for the girls. Winning this medal puts Heymans in the history books! How cool is that?! She is now officially the first female diver to reach the podium in four consecutive Olympics. The best part, she's only 30! such great accomplishments to receive in your life. This medal for Able on the other hand becomes her first in her second Olympic games and she's only 20. Do I have to say how amazing that is? I'm 20 and I haven't accomplished as much as she has. This was definitely a happy day here north of the border. I think these two young ladies have raised the hopes up in the country. Two days in and we are in good spirits.

In other Olympic news:
- Canada's Women's Eight came first in their heat on Day 2 and will advance to the finals against the US on Day 6! 
- Canada's artistic gymnastic team made the team finals today marking history for the team.
- Brittany MacLean, 18-year-old from Toronto (18 oh my goodness) makes 400m freestyle finals coming in with the sixth best score. Good Luck!

Right now, China is in the lead with the most medals followed by the US and Italy. Check Twitter #CTVOlympics for all your Canadian Olympic fun!

photocredit: http://fulltwist.net/tag/london-2012-olympics/

Mason Jars, DIY Bracelet, Invitations

Every week I will be posting and talking about a few posts from other blogs or websites that I think are fun, handy, and worth sharing with you guys. One of this week's post actually comes from my roommate who sent this to me this morning (Hi Natalie). This post on Chapters/Indigo website shows 6 different ways to use mason jars. We are all accustomed to seeing mason jars used for storage but here they suggest alternative ways and one that I am especially loving is the idea to fill your drinks in the jars which could be really fun for girls night or a BBQ!

Click here to see the post!

photocredit: lovemaegan

The original one I was going to share with you guys was a DIY from Love Maegan. Since I love it, I'm going to share it anyway. It's a DIY tutorial on making your own rose gold bracelet. I can't wait to try this. Luckily I have all the tools and material at home so it should be fast an easy. If you are looking for a place to buy the materials I would check out stores like Wal Mart and Michaels, or if you have a local beading store they would have the supplies as well. Either way, this is a really easy way to make your own jewellery.

Click here to see the DIY!

Lastly for this week I wanted to share "15 Delightfully Geeky Wedding Invitations" from Mental Floss. If you appreciate the geek side of life then I guarantee you will love these. I think they are so fun, witty, and not to mention a unique way to tell everyone about your wedding date. If you are the right couple I say why not! My personal favorites from the website are the View Master, Mario's End Level Scene, Pacman and of course, being such a jukie, the Harry Potter Marauders Map!

Click here to see the full set of 15!

There you go! My three posts of the week. Hope you guys enjoy them and let me know what you think!

How to Wear Colored Jeans

This trend has been a huge hit this season. It seemed to have started with the red pant and explode to other shades so fast. I must say, I love my red jeans, lovelove. My parents brought them back from me from Dubai so they are so soft and comfy. What I have been loving even more are the pastel colors that are very trendy right now. I am just going to walk you through some ways to pair up colored denim in new ways. Obviously, you can never go wrong in pairing colored denim with black, white, cream, or tan shirt but these three outfit pairings are meant to challenge the norm and step out of the box to rock this trend.

The first pairing is a light pastel pink jean. The this one I got from the Topshop website. This is a beautiful light pink color, and is actually the exact color I am currently searching for but haven't been able to find the right pair. Anyways, I've paired the pink jean with a button down denim shirt also from Topshop. The beautiful thing about colored denim is that it doesn't give the same look as wearing blue-on-blue denim. Wearing a denim shirt with colored pants is actually one of my favourite looks to wear. Its simple and comfortable and gives an effortless look. I would pair this look right down to the shoes with an Oxford show like this one from Aldo. I particularly love the yellow because it blends in with the pastel pallet. However you can also pair a simpler color such as grey or black. I didn't include accessories in this but I would pair this outfit with a simple pair of pearl or diamond studs and a big ring likely in a deeper blue or black tone.

The second pairing is a color-blocking outfit. I think having colored denim is a perfect way to jump into the color blocking trend. Why not wear two trends in one right? In this look I have paired a gorgeous mint green pair of pants from True Religion and paired them with a gorgeous  pink frill top from Miss Selfridge. The two together give a really polished looked while still color blocking the contrast between pink and green. Also, I think if you are going to do color-blocking that you should do it from head to toe. To do this, I have finished the outfit with a pair of purple heels from Forever 21. Having the darker heel paired with the lighter outfit won't take away from the outfit as a whole, it will contrast the brightness of the pant and allow both to pop. If you are worried about the illusion of color-blocking making you look shorter, you may want to pair a nude heel instead of a colored one. Nude heels actually emulate a clean light and make you appear taller. To finish this look off I would wear small drop earrings or studs, along with a black purse and a bigger watch.

Lastly, the third pairing is one with a printed top. I feel like sometimes people are afraid to pair a printed top with a bright colored pant either thinking it will be too much or will take away from a pant. But, if done tastefully it can be really pretty. In this instance I am pairing the same pant as the first outfit but in blue from Topshop and pairing it with an orange floral printed top from Forever 21. The blue pant will accent the floral print in the top whilst the orange will provide as a focal color for the rest of the outfit. Because the orange in this top specifically is more of a rusty orange, I have chosen a simple brown wedge to wear from Aldo. The shoe doesn't have to be this shape or color of shoe. As we know, there are plenty of wedge shapes out there  and any would work with this simple outfit. I would most likely stick to a neutral color in the tan color pallet to balance out the rust coming out of the shirt. To finish this off, I would either wear a statement necklace (like the one seen in the photo) and stud earrings in gold or I would wear bigger earrings and lots of bangles all in the gold tones. I think a nice gold wristlet would also go well with this outfit.

There you go! Three new ways of pairing colored jeans. If anyone else has any other ways they like to wear their color jeans please comment below I'd love to hear it. If you are interested in any of the above pieces I have linked the article page in the name of each store for your convince.

Hope you enjoyed this!

Top 10 Summer Jams

No one loves driving and blasting music with the windows down more than me. Actually to be honest I think I picked up that habit from my boyfriend. His AC in his car is broken so he has to blast music to hear it when we are driving. So, in honour of blasting music in the summer I thought I would make my first Top 10/List of my summer jams!

1- As Long As You Love Me- Justin Bieber ft. Big Sean. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-FVihIlU2g)
2- Marvin Gaye and Chardonnay - Big Sean (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAl2Jyijang)
3- Cinema - Benni Benassi Skrillex Remix (youuu areee a cineemaaa) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ua0KpfJsxKo)
4- Turn up the Music - Chris Brown (he's back) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQWG8BVeryU)
5- Breathing - Jason Derulo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FbF18hDosw)
6- Make Me Proud - Drake ft Nicki Minaj ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlLYEGlksZY )
7- Everybody Talks- Neon Trees (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5G9tIe84lE)
8- Young Homie- Chris Rene ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYPTS_39I8g )
9- We Run the Night- Havana Brown and Pitbull (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UW6uwch9aXs)
10- Finally, of course, Carly Rae Jepsen - Call Me Maybe (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWNaR-rxAic)

I think I only linked the clean versions of the songs however if I missed any I sincerely apologize!
And that's that! My top 10 summer jams!

Enjoy!

Brand Spotlight: E.L.F Cosmetics

Every time someone finds out that I use ELF products they always ask me the same thing; is it worth it. My answer is always yes. I found out about ELF about a year ago when I began taking more interest in beauty and make-up. I came across ELF through an advertisement online I believe. Since then, I still order from the site and may never go back when it comes to some of the products. This post will be more of a tips post for ordering off the ELF website rather than a haul.

Array of products from ELF's Essential line
photocredit: http://www.fatwallet.com/forums/hot-deals/1191291/

The first thing you always have to remember when buying make-up or any product in general is you get what you pay for. In this case, ELF products are cheap cheap cheap! Products start as low as $1 which is awesome especially when you are on a budget like myself. They have three make-up lines; essential being the cheapest, studio, and mineral being the most expensive. The problem with ELF is that some of the products live up to their price and do not translate well once applied. So here's what I suggest, read and watch reviews! There are plenty of reviews on the ELF website but I tend to watch review videos on Youtube. There are tones of beauty gurus on Youtube that are extremely helpful when you are indecisive about a product. 

Second, is the shipping. It is reasonable if you are shipping within the US but if you are international like me shipping is pricey. Being in Canada I pay the base of  $6.95 plus another $14.95 for taxes and border fees. This sucks! When I buy ELF products I wait until I need everything to order. That way I know I am making the best of the shipping. 

An alternative to the crazy shipping is to buy the product in store. Unfortunately, being north of the border, there aren't many stores that carry the full ELF line. You can find some products in Winners and surprisingly Dollarama! In the US the products are quite available at Target which is awesome especially if you go to the US often or have family/friends that live there. I'm hoping when the Targets start arriving here in the next year or so we will have ELF products conveniently as well. Fingers crossed!

Lastly, wait for the sales! ELF has sales on one thing or another almost every single day. I usually wait out for the 50% off sales or $10 off or something in that ballpark. Imagine when the 50% off sale is on, some of the products come out to $0.50 which is always a nice surprise :) If you live in the US they often have free shipping and if you are international like myself, free shipping means we just pay the $14.95 which is still pricey.


I would definitely recommend this brand to anyone looking for simple products to use and especially for beginners who are looking to experiment with make-up.

That's pretty much my low-down of ELF as a brand and some helpful ways to navigate around the site for the first time. You can find their products at www.eyeslipsface.com. Also, if you are looking for a Youtube guru who does ELF hauls I would recommend emilynoel83 from Beauty Broadcast (www.beautybraodcast.net is her blog). She is one of my favourites. I may be posting a few of my all-time favourite ELF products for your enjoyment! 

Stay beautiful. 

Almeera   

Project Runway Season 10: Who I'm Loving and What I predict

It's Project Runway time! Season 9 was amazing and I am so happy Season 10 is now rolling. I remember the first time my roomate found out that I watch this show she said "I don't know anyone who watches that". If you fall into the category she was talking about, but you love fashion, watch this show. No regrets, I promise. Two episodes in and I already have my favourites. Here we go!

I'm so happy they have not switched up the judges. The panel (below) just make the show what it is. Though, I think they started off with a weak guest star for the first episode. Lauren Graham (praise to the way of the Gilmore Girl) guest judged but every time she spoke I got the feeling she has no idea what she was talking about! I was so surprised, definitely thought she would have done better.

Tim Gunn (<3), Heidi Klum (<3), Michael Kors (<3), Nina Garcia (<3)
LOVE.

photocredit: http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway/season-10/photos/episode-1-pictures#id=20

Here are the two designers I am loving. Since I saw Melissa's audition tape I have adored her. I think she is edgy chique and brings a new twist to the table which is so unpredictable when you see her. I am not surprised she made the top 3 right off the bat, her dresses in the first episode were extremely well tailored and the shape of the mini cocktail dress was beautiful. I would have tried it on in a heartbeat if I saw it on a rack. This week's episode she made the most hard hitting top in black licorice. It was so FIERCE (work it girl). I couldn't find a good picture of it, but check out the link at the bottom of the post to see it!

The dress on my right is my favourite!
photocredit:http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway/season-10/photos/episode-1-pictures#id=26

Another one on my love list: Sonjia - her personal style is great. I want every single one of her outfits. Her designs are just as fabulous. In the first episode she created a leather jacket which was beautiful. This week however, her unconventional design was gorgeous even though it was made out of candy. She has such a great attitude and she is beautiful, I think she will go far in this competition. 

Beaut.
photocredit:  http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway/season-10/photos/episode-2-pictures#id=42 

Not everyone is catching my attention; I am not a fan of Ven who is a great designer but I think he has some arrogance to him. His designs were also similar the last two episodes even though they were two different challenges. They both featured a rose design and had similar tailoring. Maybe he will grow on me, who knows. Another that is really racking my nerves is Gunner. I think he has a lot of potential but he is also going to be the one to start the drama with his diva personality. I really just want to give him a mad reality check.

As for my predictions, I think Melissa, Sonjia, Ven, and Christopher will be some of the lasts to be around. I am so excited for this season to unfold! If you want to see the portfolios up to date you can find them here: http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/project-runway/season-10/photos/episode-2-pictures#id=42

#Makeitwork.
-Almeera

Byte in.

Over the course of the summer I have had plenty of time to think and consider my life. I have just completed my second year of university, celebrated my 20th birthday, discovered my true loves and interests, and cannot wait to start a new chapter of my life.

I'm creating this blog to share my interests with everyone or anyone who may share the same them with me. Ever since I was a kid I have had a huge passion for fashion (excuse the rhyme...) and I think I have my aunt to thank for that. She spoiled me rotten and assured that I had the best clothes for my age (including my toddler years). This passion has grown immensely in the last few years along with my makeup junkie side (which is getting bad. Rehab anyone?) However, that is simply one side of me. My other side, as a media student is a passion for technology, social media, geeky movies ( Batman review to be posted), advertising, news and world events.

I look forward to sharing this new project with anyone and everyone who may stumble upon this blog! Please comment or contact me if you want to request any postings or have any questions about content.

Cheers!

Almeera