Veg out and Vibe at VegFest With ‘Wear Bare Bones’

It’s been almost five months since I entered the world of veganism.  Now when I say it’s been an awesome experience thus far, I’m totally underrating it. The benefits of living a plant-based lifestyle is seriously extensive! I’m talking clearer skin, more energy, hair growth, weight loss, greater spirituality, and TONS more. Amidst my learning and growing as a vegan, I’m coming into contact with some really interesting people who, too, are living a happy life without consuming animal flesh and taking in animal hormones (sorry, but not sorry, for that visual)!

Enter Wear Bare Bones, a vegan-awareness brand that is proud to sell apparel with strong, rebellious messages. Using pop culture slang to arouse both conversation and empowerment (e.g., “Vegan As F&CK”), Wear Bare Bones is designed for the “plant-based rebel” who fights for what he or she believes in and doesn’t accept the status quo.

According to Wear Bare Bones, “We created this brand to spread our passion for plant-based living through casual and edgy apparel. Embracing a plant-based lifestyle has taught us how to respect our mind, body, and planet. That’s the message we want to promote to anyone who cares (and especially to those who don’t).” 

(New plant-based rebel gear on www.wearbarebones.com!)

That said, I’m super-excited to announce that Wear Bare Bones will be posted up at this year’s FREE VegFest in Woodley Park this Sunday (10:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.). If you're planning to attend "LA's BEST food, wine, and beer" festival, you’ll have the chance to stop by, chat with the team, and shop its selection in person. My plan! 

Ready to rep your vegan lifestyle with cool clothing, but unable to make it to Veg Fest? Enjoy a 15 percent discount when you shop online! Wear Bare Bones’ tees are affordable ($25 -- $36) and seasonally friendly (looove the tanks!), and its newest gear is also worth exploring! Use coupon code: REBEL upon checkout. Discount deal lasts through: May 31, 2016. *Free shipping on all U.S. orders. Free worldwide shipping over $30.

Connect with Wear Bare Bones on Twitter and Instagram! Tell ‘em the Good Girl Gone Shopping says hello! xo

PRODUCT REVIEW: Skincare, Health, and Wellness Goodies from 'It Works!'

In the past month, I've been eating a lot cleaner (more fresh fruits and vegetables as well as less processed foods) and working out more (an increase in cardio and at-home kinesthetics). That said, I was happy to sample some products from It Works!, which is said to be one of the "fastest-growing consumer lifestyle, health and skincare direct sales companies." Often, I say "no thanks" to pitches from reps of direct sales companies. This is because I feel like just a number, or a commission opportunity to a him/her who actually may not really care if the products promoted are great. I don't like getting hounded and pressured into investing in the "next big thing."

But I responded with an immediate "Yes!" to Stevie Telken, an independent consultant for It Works! We had already built a fun, social friendship via Instagram, so when she approached me and asked if I'd like to sample some of her health and wellness products, I was actually pretty grateful. Not only did I enjoy her approach, but it was perfect timing regarding my lifestyle changes! Stevie left the options of what I wanted to sample up to me (very cool!). So I visited her website, and was immediately was drawn to the "Ultimate Body Applicator." Being the kind and generous business woman that she has proven to be, she ended up sending me two of them as well as some other products to try.

Due to my busy schedule and somewhat scattered brain at times, I took a few weeks to try everything out and really see if It Works!....actually does. Because I am aware that nearly every type of beauty and skincare product typically takes more than one application before showing visible results, I entered this experience with a realistic mind-frame. Here are my detailed (and honest!) reviews of the two main products Stevie sent me:

Ultimate Body Applicator ($59/box of 4):

I sampled two applicators, spaced out about a week apart of one another. These before and after photos are from the second round of sampling, simply because I forgot to take proper "after" photos (duh).

The process: Per instructions, I made sure the tested skin was clean first. Then I took out the applicator from the package and was hit with an amazing "botanical-based formula" scent. OMG -- smelled delicious. Following my deep inhales, I made sure that the side with the most lotion was the side directly applied to my skin. I will say that because the applicator, which is like a thin, soft sheet of material, had moistness on both sides...it was a little difficult for me to determine which side had more! But I eventually figured it out. Then I stood in front of my bathroom mirror and delicately applied it on my tummy and sides. The wrap doesn't sit perfectly tight on the skin, so I definitely had to smooth it out first the best I could. Instructions said that you can use either saran wrap to hold the product in place or throw on a tight top. Considering I'm the same person who didn't take "after" photos the first time, guess which one I chose? Yes, the tight top. This is because I didn't read the instructions completely in full beforehand and buy saran wrap like I probably should have. I believe that if I had secured the product with saran wrap, my results may have been a little bit more dramatic.

(First-time use before I applied my tight top over the applicator!)

So, I left it on for the full 45 minutes both times I tried it (which is recommended for first-time use), and let me tell you...the tingly sensation combined with the yummy scent was so interesting, which I really felt after about 20 minutes. It definitely made me feel like something is working! Because I wanted to make sure the wrap stayed in place, I decided not to sit down while it was on. So, I basically placed my laptop on the counter and continued writing and emailing with it on. (I'm all about staying productive!) The time flew, and then when I took off the wrap, I rubbed the leftover lotion on my skin, per instructions. Although my above before-and-after photo does not show a major difference, I immediately noticed and felt a tightness. In order to maintain results, instructions said to eat clean the rest of the day and make sure you avoid salty foods, alcohol, etc., because technically, the body is in detox mode after usage. The first time, it was a slight challenge 'cause I wasn't completely conformed to better eating and habits. But the week after, it was much easier. The next morning, following both applications, I noticed that the sides of my stomach were tighter and more cinched in. It could have been results from my ab exercises or the applicator, or both. Either way, it made this girl happy!

Would I recommend the Ultimate Body Applicator? Yes, if you combine clean eating, exercise, and multiple uses over the month. Also, the applicator can eventually be worn up to eight hours. I'm sure that will make a ton of difference!

Facial Applicator ($59/box of 4):

I really enjoyed this product, simply due to the fact that it allowed me to relax and rejuvenate! However, the Facial Applicator enhanced more of my spirit and wellness versus my skin.

The Process: Just like the Body Applicator, I needed to cleanse my skin first and make sure that the side with the most lotion was applied directly to my skin. Figured that out and applied directly, smoothing it out so it really held to skin. Then it was time to lay down on the my couch, with head back for at least 45 minutes. That was my biggest challenge...the sitting-down-doing-nothing concept! The botanical-formulated scent, which was nearly identical to the Ultimate Body Applicator, calmed me quickly and I did my best in closing my eyes and enjoy some still time and light music. I haven't been to a spa in ages, so this was a nice at-home, spa-like experience for me. After the 45 minutes, I took off the Facial Applicator, discarded it, and rubbed in the lotion. You'll notice that my "before" (left) and my "after" (right) is not too noticeable. But it felt really good on my skin, and you can actually see that in my after pic, my skin is a little darker. Possibly, it helped stimulate my blood circulation, because I don't appear as pale as the before pic. What can't be pictured, really, is how smooth my skin felt afterward. That pimple is still there (blah), but overall, the experience was refreshing!

Would I recommend the Facial Applicator? Yes, if you can find the time to relax and use at least once a week.

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The other It Works! products I sampled include: the Lip and Eye (nice, subtle moisturizer for both areas), Greens Chew (a yummy treat with fiber and antioxidants), and Greens On the Go, Berry (liquid supplement that was lightly flavored and helped curb my appetite a few hours!).

In Conclusion: Products such as these are designed to enhance the health and wellness results of an already-healthy person. Remember that. Each of these products, in their own way, definitely motivated me to continue working out, eating well, and taking care of my skin. There is no magic potion for perfection and It Works! is no exception. But these products are pretty cool if you can be consistent with usage!

If you have questions regarding these products and would like to directly communicate with Stevie Telken, be sure to visit her website and follow her on Instagram! 

You Don't HAVE to Bust Through Your Favorite Fashion Pieces This Holiday Season!

(Photo Credit: www.everydayhealth.com) 

In my latest article for ChelseaKrost.com, I provide 3 (EASY) tips on how to ease up on the over-consumption of goodies this holiday season! 

"Ohhh…how the holiday season brings us much joy. From reuniting with loved ones to volunteering at a local charity, this season no doubt gives us a sense of rejuvenation and a time to reflect on what’s going great, what’s not, and what could use improving (especially as you start making your New Year’ resolutions).

But here’s where the tricky part comes in: enjoying yummy treats while still wearing what you love.

I personally love the pineapple cheesecake and brownies my m

om makes for Chanukah, and it gives me pleasure to bake cookies for my boyfriend during Christmas (and, ahem, eating the cookie dough at the same time).  And like most people, I am definitely guilty of over-consuming, while telling myself, “I’ll just cut back after the holidays.” But the thing is, that’s never fun. The pressure that comes from that can sometimes cause you to turn to all those leftover sweets a few too many times!  So, through trial and error, I’ve figured out how to enjoy the holidays while still fitting into my favorite leggings, blouses, and sweaters..." Read the full article! 

Be a ‘Sweaty Betty’ this Holiday Season in Stylish Gear! Your Summer Body Will Thank You.

(Our bodies are our temples...Photo Credit: www.sweatybetty.com)

“Just one more cookie and then I swear I won’t have dinner tonight!” No, I do not have an eating disorder. But, yes, like most people, I find myself over-indulging during the holiday season and then feeling kinda guilty about it and stepping back completely (Well, maybe that is some sort of disorder...yikes).

In all seriousness though, human hibernation doesn’t mean to stuff your face simply because it’s “that time of the year.” Rather, it should involve a great combo of eating what you want in moderation and working out a bit more than usual (if you really want to burn off the extra fat the healthy way). I mean, I do exercise; I’ll wake up early Saturday and Sunday mornings and walk the steep streets in my LA neighborhood and I’ll lift weights and do squats while I watch “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” on Bravo.

But I know that it’s time to create more of a strict workout schedule – for many reasons. Although I’ve come to find beauty in living in the moment, I also love to dream and fantasize about the days of SoCal summer. In other words, I want to be prepared and feel amazing when it’s time to go bikini shopping.

(Running does the body good! Photo Credit: www.sweatybetty.com)

And to get myself pumped up to become more active, I know what needs to be done: Get rid of the horrid 5-year old workout gear that is stuffed in my closet and get on board with a new sports bra, yoga pants, and running shoes. Sweaty Betty is a UK-based fitness clothing brand has an insane selection of stylish gear, including girls dance wear and ladies swimwear. I think this could be a cool site to start browsing!

The philosophy behind Sweaty Betty is pretty awesome too: “To inspire women to find empowerment in fitness.” After all, our overall image is influenced by several factors, and how we take care of our bodies reflects in our beauty. Fitness is a crucial aspect that should not be ignored.

Follow Sweaty Betty on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram! Photos of women getting’ their workouts on will inspire you to finish up that fourth cookie and put on your running shoes.

Note to Self: Water In a Cute Cup Does the Body Good

(By photographer Ruud Baan)

As a health-conscious fashion writer, I believe it all comes down to this simple formula: eating healthy and exercising regularly = more energy + a fitter bod + excitement to shop for new fashion trends + more confidence to adorn your best assets + an overall greater sense of well-being. 

I am in no way claiming to be a fitness and health expert; I only speak from experience and what has worked for me in my journey thus far. That said, here is my biggest tip (especially if you're living in the scorching SoCal heat this summer!): Drink water!!

It's so easy to make the wrong choice, such as deciding to wash down that big burger with a soda instead of an iced tea or water. It's also very easy to forget to drink water in between cups after cups of coffee, as well as in between your several cocktails at the bar. (Caffeine and liquor can cause you to feel dehydrated.)

Making the right choice must be a very conscious decision, which gets easier over time and eventually becomes second nature. And yay! You can totally keep your body hydrated and energized in style.You're sure to find a good selection of cute, affordable, plastic or stainless steel water bottles at your fave stores, such as Target, Ross, Walmart, and Old Navy! In general, these handy water containers will also save you money in the long run (don't have to keep buying 12 or 24-packs of water bottles at the grocery store) and contribute to saving the planet (don't have to feel guilty about forgetting to recycle your Smartwater or Evian water bottles anymore).

After all, being stylish isn't just about the fashion you choose to wear. Good health and a fit physique will always be in vogue!


Photo Credit: http://www.thecoolist.com 

Inspiration Comes From Within

Helping men and women find affordable clothing is a joy for me. As an Inland Empire and Los Angeles personal shopper it is something that I always have energy for, whether I'm in a funk or feel a lack of energy to do so. I thrive in the excitement!

Writing, on the other hand, is more complicated than this. My journalism professor told me years ago that a real writer knows how to write even without inspiration; he said the old men who sit in coffee shops waiting for inspiration to come to them are not true writers. A true writer, he explained, was someone who knows how to break through mental boundaries and put their thoughts into words with all their might. I have grown to believe him. HOWEVER, that doesn't mean it's always easy. In fact, I am writing this right now, because I am struggling with the right words for other projects.

But, I suppose I am doing what he has taught me. I'm still writing this post. Even though it isn't the projects (designer interviews and articles on LA boutiques) that I woke up to do, I am pushing through my writer's block.

Drinking hot coffee, putting on some soft music, and opening the blinds so the sunshine can peek in always help me to get inspired. Sometimes, I call my mom or dad just to get some encouraging words, watch Bravo or E! for ideas about fashion and entertainment, listen to old voicemails where my niece is saying goodnight, and sometimes I just play Pac Man to get my motor skills going...

The most important thing is to know how to persist even when it feels impossible! Never easy, but do-able. Making a to-do list (as written about on Where Business and Media Meet) is also a great ways to make sure that you accomplish your goals. Staci, from Handbag Report, once contacted me giving me praise for being a multitasker and being able to devote my time to various projects. I appreciated that it didn't go unnoticed, but I made it clear that it isn't easy. (Her blog is awesome, and I, of course, returned the compliments.)

What do you think of my professor's philosophy? And, how do you find inspiration with your own craft?


Photo Credit: http://www.pointclickhome.com

Spin Your Way Into Those Skinny Jeans

Just like all of you, I have my own weaknesses when it comes to food. I am definitely a carb queen who desires salty and sweet munchies all the time.

So to combat these cravings, I now exercise and eat healthy(er) on a regular basis, drinking TONS of water. It is time to get my body in gear and achieve my personal weight loss goal. And with the right motivation, I plan to make it a lifestyle change, dropping ALL of my bad habits. I will be 29 years old this month, and my body most certainly doesn't feel the same as it did 10 years ago at 19 -- no way. I was more active back then; I walked miles on CSUF's campus, danced with my friends at late-night house parties, and worked at Nordstrom where I was constantly on my feet moving from department to department.

So how am I slowly but surely making headway, when I sit at the computer for more than 10 hours total every day during the week? Well, I spin two days a week (in addition to kickboxing two days a week)! Spinning is, for me, a meditational form of cardio. You use different levels of resistance to spin your legs and use the strength of your body to stay energized to, typically, good music. This is my thinking time, as I look straight in the mirror at myself. Even as sweat drips down my face and arms and exhaustion settles in, I mentally speak to myself and breathe out the stress and pressure of my everyday life.

One of my goals in this whole process is to be able to wear certain fall and winter fashions that I adore. Sound trivial? I'm sure you all would agree with me: "No way, isn't it what this is all about? Hellooo...fashion!" Most importantly, however, is to feel confident, healthy, and proud of myself.

Writing about this helps to keep me motivated because I know that many of you can relate to the struggle of finding time to exercise when your day is innundated with other responsibilities. But find time for yourself and focus on your body and health...the rest will somehow settle in its place.

Photo Credit: http://www.ehow.com

"Top 10 Hollywood Abs" from RadarOnline.com

Radaronline.com is my new favorite website for celebrity info and (tasteful) gossip chatter! My latest inspiration for getting and staying fit for the summer is their recent "Top 10 Hollywood Abs" article.

The photos of Madonna, Jessica Biel, and Cameron Diaz are enough to make me throw away my pizza and get my butt on the treadmill. (kickboxing is not ALWAYS enough.) Should there ever be a "Top 10 Inland Empire Abs" -- I want to be featured!


Photo Credit: http://ww.radaronline.com

My Fight with Fat: One Girl's Insight to Her Weight Loss Challenge

Visit Fashion, Love, and Martinis to view the latest YouTube video of Amanda Allison. Her honesty, integrity, and bravery will amaze you.

Fashion is for all sizes, shapes, and personalities. Remember this as you shop and browse through your favorite magazines.

Amanda will definitely evoke an emotional response from you. I am listening to the video as I write, and I hope that you take the time to listen to her words. I don't know anyone else who is this candid about her weight loss struggle. I wish her only the best. (In fact, I am going to text her - my Northern Cali buddy - my support!)

Photo Credit: http://fashionloveandmartinis.blogspot.com

The 'Good Girl' on Video Talks Plastic Surgery

This Sunday, I head to Las Vegas with the PlasticSurgery.com sales and marketing team for the ASAPS show (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery). As the senior editor, I have tons of networking to do and medical seminars to go to. Yes y'all, I do more than write about fashion, provide fashion tips, and personally shop for/with women. I write about boob jobs, nose jobs, celebrities and plastic surgery, and cosmetic surgery addiction.

So, please give a round of applause to our Plastic Surgery Studios site! You will find me giving insight to my role under "Web Design." I also put my heart and soul into writing all of the content.

*Please forgive my leave of blogging absence this weekend. I will be sure to give a rundown after the trip!

xoxooxxo,
Elana

Battle Your Cellulite...and Win!

Sara of Beauty Chat and PlasticSurgery.com (an excellent reporter!) is all about battling the most annoying problem most women have: cellulite. 'Cause don't you want to sport that bikini without being self-conscious about your "cottage cheese" thighs? But don't worry! We all have it.

(I know I do...which is why I am addicted to squats and kickboxing. Fortunately, it has improved this condition a bit.)

Check out her recent post in PS.com's New year, new You section. Although cellulite will never go away completely, here are some products -- and information on Endermologie -- you might be able to come out on top and win that pesky battle you've been suffering from for years: "Your At-Home Guide to Cellulite Treatments."

Photo Credit: Featuring Sharon Stone in http://www.thecelebritycondition.com

'Think Pink' and Support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Have you checked your breasts lately? There is no better time than now...READ MORE on Your New Body.

(The PlasticSurgery.com crew. Me to the right. Photo set up by Dan, with the exclamation point, who is head of the creative department. Concept developed by Audrey, our SEO marketing manager -- the first "I" with the cute shoes.)

Kickboxing to Kick a Bad Habit

I completed my first kickboxing class today at the gym. My friend Andrea ("Dre") and Jana speak so highly of it that it was time I took part in the madness. And while I don't necessarily -- or at ALL -- resemble the chick in this pic, I felt pretty hot sweating and looking tough in the class. I mean it sooooo does a body good. Of course, at some points, I mixed up steps and had to stand aside and let Dre show me how things are done. But I stayed with it, sweat like crazy, and was so proud that I decided to choose a workout this evening instead of good 'ol Parliaments.

So this will be my regular Wednesday 6:30 pm class amongst my 3-4 days working out doing cardio. I'm still determined to get back into the fit shape I used to be so very proud of.

Now....first up: some fabulous, comfy kickboxing workout clothes. Yay! That is one area where I rarely splurge. It's time I finally give in.

Photo Credit: http://www.fightergirls.com/

Work Your Body!

By Terry Carter

Wellness Editor

I work out with a personal trainer. This is a luxury for me --a way for me to treat myself well. I regularly hear spectators to my grueling fitness regime yell out "I should be doing that." But they don’t.

Excuses are paralyzing. Action is rewarding.

I started working out with my trainer Curtis a couple of years ago. We work out in the morning. This is great for me because it starts my day of with "me time" doing an activity that is beneficial for me. I’ve noticed when working out in the morning my eating habits tend to be on track throughout the day.

What I enjoy most about training (and Curtis’style) is that each session is some new and different challenge. I struggle, even yell sometimes, but in the end I leave with a natural high and knowing that I have done something good for my body. Today a woman commented on how good I look.

Another asked me if I was a trainer. Those comments from spectators are nice too!
Want to work out but can't afford a trainer? Try a boot camp. Boot camps allow you to work out in a group setting at a reduced cost and add a new group of people to your life for socializing and support. From time to time I also participate in a boot camp. It’s a fun group of people from all walks of life. We even spend time outside of working out at birthday parties, comedy events and recently, a quincenera.

To find a boot camp near you search the Internet for "boot camp" and the name of your city. Inquire about pricing, number of students, and type of training. I’ve lost weight, my stomach is flat and with my 20-year high school reunion approaching, I feel great about how I look.

Work out in style with Yoga and Pilates apparel from Travertine Spa, and learn more about Curtis Ludlow and his Fullerton boot camp at bootcampfx.com

Terry Carter is CEO of Travertine Spa. A former Attorney, Terry is our Wellness Editor who offers creative ways to treat yourself well. He provides healthy tips for living the spa lifestyle on any budget. E-mail your questions to him at concierge@travertinespa.com.

Tea Time with Terry of Travertine Spa

With great joy, I present to you a new weekly column on Diary of a Personal Shopper. After featuring Travertine Spa products on my site, and interviewing Terry Carter for Beauty Chat, he and I realized the importance of communicating the power of rejuvenation. Like you, I could use some suggestions and feel-good thoughts as well. These are exclusive articles for Good Girl Gone Shopping readers. Enjoy!

“Tea Time”

I had a conversation with a friend of mine who is experiencing some extreme misery at work. Her company is not doing well, people are leaving. It’s hard to be motivated to get anything done – I've been there.

So I suggested that she create a relaxing environment in her workspace and start a Tea Time.

I had miserable job a few years back where co-workers and I (the one's I liked) would get together for afternoon tea. I would buy a quality tea from a spa or gourmet shop and we would enjoy it and play a fun yet intellectual game in the law library. Fridays at lunch (or after lunch) were great because the office was quiet. In time, people would start bringing their own teas and even desserts.

My friend tells me that Tea Time has made a difference in her day. It gives her and her “tea mates” something positive to look forward to.

Visit http://www.teaforte.com/ – my new favorite elixir is Flora.


Terry Carter is CEO of Travertine Spa. A former attorney, Terry is our Wellness Editor who found creative ways to manage stress. He provides healthy tips for living the spa lifestyle on any budget. E-mail your questions to him at concierge@travertinespa.com