Hello Serena, Blair, and Carrie.. Jay's in Town: Photos of my Upper East Side Apartment :)

Drum roll please...

It's been a long, stressful road... but one of the top stresses has been lifted! My place to stay this summer is close to being finalized.

Below are pictures of my apartment in the Upper East Side in NYC. It's a 1-bedroom flat, fully furnished, in the best neighborhood in the city. Boutiques, pubs, cafes, consignment shops, vintages stores, couture stores... AH!

Check it out. :)



My soon-to-be bedroom!

 


My living room... chandelier (and everything else) included! :)

 


My own personal library and reading area.

 


The inviting neighborhood! Lined up with boutiques, cafes, and more.

 


My kitchen.. this area will probably receive the least amount of action.

 


Oh joy, I get to do my own laundry. Thankful for not having to walk to the laundry mat though! :)

 


And finally... The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The same place where Queen Blair sat, forcing her minions to sit below her. (You have to understand Gossip Girl to get a lot of my references!)

I cannot wait for this journey, and I hope you are all following along with me! Plus, I hope you realize that you HAVE to follow your dreams. ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.

X<3X<3,

Jayy Fabulous



Spotlight on the Phrase: "She doesn't look nearly as pretty in person."

I'm sure we have all heard someone say while 'creeping' on Instagram, "You know, she's not even that pretty, she just chose a good filter."
 
Before you use this statement again, I just thought that you should know where it comes from.
 
Jealously, envy, hate, angry, frustration... do I need to go on?
 
As women, we suck at lifting each other up.
 
We fight for the center of attention, so our source of comfort is to shoot others down.
 
Don't act like you haven't done this. We ALL have. 
 
Have you ever sat around with your girlfriends on a girls night in, and somehow managed to analyze each and every girl that pops up on your social media newsfeed?
 
Some good comments are made, but mostly it's just a way to start gossip when someone pops up that the whole group just isn't particularly fond of.
 
It's unfortunately in our DNA as girls and women to be little witches sometimes.
 
"She's not even cute."
"That filter is really helping her out."
"She's really sucking it in."
"She's not really that tan."
"I promise you, she doesn't really look that good."
"I'm cuter than her right?"
"He is too good looking for her."
"His abs are so fake."
 
What do all of these statements have in common?
 
Oh yes, they're completely disrespectful and false.
 
Because chances are, that girl IS that pretty in person, and she's probably actually tan.
 
And breaking news: the guy with the abs probably REALLY does have abs.
 
There is only so much a person can fake on social media, and appearance isn't exactly one of them. Sure, filters 'enhance' a person's beauty, but it doesn't give that person a new face.
 
So, much to your dismay, the person you are dissing probably actually is drop dead gorgeous.
 
You're in luck though, because we all just so happen to be beautiful. :)
 
So, question, why are we lying about the appearance of others?
 
Because we're insecure, jealous, and like to have a "pity party, party of one" (or two, or three...).
 
I know I'm coming down a little hard here, but I'm being just as hard on myself (trust me on that).
 
So to make a point here, I'm posting an filtered photo along with the unfiltered version.



Filtered

Unfiltered

 

Sure, there is a color difference, my lips are much bolder, my hair is shinier, and my green eyes are intensified...

 

But it's still me.

 

So, in a stance against "filter judgment," I encourage you to post a comparison photo. You'll probably realize that you still look like, you guessed it, YOURSELF. Shocker, I know.

 

Don't be a bully, no one likes a bully.

 

X<3X<3,

 

Jayy Fabulous

 

 

Make-Up ENHANCES Beauty, it's NOT the Reason for it!

"Oh look what time it is, I have to put my face on."

I've pretty much said this every time before I get ready, as I'm sure we all have. It's mostly all in fun, but deep down I think each one of us girls thinks that without our "faces," we aren't beautiful.

When/if we go out without make-up on, we use phrases such as "I apologize for how ratchet I look today" and "I'm terribly sorry for all of you that have to look at me right now", or make some random excuse about how you "just woke up" and didn't have time to put on your "face."

God already gave each one of us a "face."  A face that He carefully crafted just for you.  It's unique! It's your job to embrace this look, because it was created specifically for you by the Lord; the one that loves you the most.

With all of that being said, that doesn't mean we can't have fun and enhance our best features with a little color!

I LOVE cosmetics.  Estee Lauder, MAC, Sephora, Buxom: Bare Essentials, Smashbox... I could go on and on.

But it is always good to include this little disclaimer when you are applying make-up: it is to ENHANCE your beauty... it's NOT the reason you are beautiful.

So to the girl that rolled out of bed, threw on a hoodie and leggings, and skipped the make-up: you're stunning.

To the girl who works two jobs to get by and doesn't have time to dress to impress: you're gorgeous.

To the girl that's an athlete and only has time for lip balm, shorts, and a t-shirt: you're beautiful.

To the girl who did wake up on time this morning, threw on some heels, and applied make-up: you're pretty.

Notice any differences in those statements? Me either.

Bottom-line (disregard how cliché this statement is): Beauty is skin-deep, everything on the surface is just an extra.

On the topic of cosmetics, I've decided to share my make-up routine with you all. Make-up is FUN, and it's ability to bring more attention to your best features is impeccable.

Eyes:

Kat Von D eye-shadow palette (in "Ludwig," which has been discontinued but can be found online), Ardell eyelashes, CoverGirl Lash Blast mascara (in "very black"), and MAC "Blitz 'n' Glitz" eyeliner (buying the MAC eyeliner brush if you use this is a MUST).

Face:

Sheer Cover concealer in light/medium (this is good for balancing out your texture, while also covering up any bags, a pesky pimple, or any other 'imperfections'), Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation (voted the BEST FOUNDATION by multiple magazines, and honestly, it is... I use it in the shade "Bone"), CoverGirl Clean Sensitive Skin powder (in "Classic Ivory"), and CoverGirl Classic blush (in the shade "Rose Silk").

Lips:

This is a 3 step process! First, I use Clinique lipstick (in the shade "Sugared Maple"), then I top it with Forever Red Classic Red Lip Color lip gloss by Bath and Body Works.  To tone down the red, I apply the Forever Red Berry Sparkle Overcoat that adds a sparkly pink to the bold red.



Shades may vary with each person! :)

Remember: these products are beauty enhancers, not beauty definers.

XOXO,

Jayy Fabulous

Interview Cheat Sheet? Nah, It's Just a Little Guide!

When I interviewed a few months ago for my internship in New York, I ended up going with my gut on the majority of my answers.  That's not usually the case.

But if you're like the usual me, and can manage to stutter and mumble a little at times when you're nervous, a phone interview can be to your advantage.

There is no law that states that you cannot write your answers down ahead of time! Most employers ask the majority of the same questions, so even if you are dealing with a tough face-to-face interview, it's good to study up on some questions so that you are not totally blind-sided.

For those of you that haven't interviewed before, it really isn't as rough as it sounds! If you prepare the correct way, it'll be a piece of cake.

Before any interview, I always type up a set of questions that I should expect from the employer, and then I answer them.  I study, read them over and over, have a little Q&A in front of the mirror, and try to stay as calm as possible even a couple days prior to the interview.

Below is an example of one of my interview guides!

This idea has helped me so much over the years.  It allows me to never look surprised when I'm asked a question, while giving my answers a steadiness that only comes with a little rehearsal.  Enjoy :)

Interview Preparation: Q&A (WARNING: A few typos may appear. Notes are not meant to be 100% formal. Just make sure you know what you mean when you make a mistake on a question!)

1)      Why do you want this job?

a.       I want this job because fashion has always been my heart.  To being voted best dressed numerous times to styling my friends and their friends, it has always been a talent of mine.  I feel that I can incorporate my degree of Sociology into fashion because it has taught me how to interact with a plethora of personalities.  I have interacted and worked with so many different groups of people, and I believe that this will help me work with people in the fashion industry.  From human resources to the fashion itself, I’m your girl.

 

2)      Do you have any questions?

a.       When would I start this internship?

b.      When would I need to be in New York?

 

3)      Describe a situation in which you lead a team.

a.       I have been a president of multiple clubs. My biggest leadership role was Student Council President, where I helped speak at and plan assemblies, gave the morning announcements over the intercom, brainstormed fun and safe school activities, and set up all of the dances/formals.  I have also been involved in the cheerleading squad at my college, where we all work together as leaders to promote school spirit and involvement.  Also, I am Vice President of my college’s Sociology Club.  Through this, I help officiate club events and contact sponsors for the club.

 

4)      Where do you expect to be in five years?

a.       Hopefully graduate with my Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology/Social Work Emphasis and working on my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have recently started looking into programs for fashion and fashion merchandising, as I now realize that my dream could turn into a reality. LIM has a Master’s program that I am looking into.  My overall long-term goal is work in the fashion industry, either in retail or styling.  My other option is to work in the HR department for a fashion company.  My Sociology qualifies me to work in human resources .

 

5)      If you were to have a problem with the customer, what would your reaction be?

a.       The customer is always right is a common phrase used in this situation, and I would try my best to make them feel authoritative for the moment.  After they have expressed their feelings, I would give them all of the answers that I possibly could (only the ones I have the answers to). Overall, I know to listen to the customer’s complaint and help them to the best of my ability. If my help and knowledge isn’t good enough, I would likely get a manager or team leader to help the situation.

 

6)      What are your weaknesses?

a.       Being a perfectionist comes with faults. I ask a lot of questions, but it is mainly so I can get the job done correctly.  I can seem shy at first, but it does not affect my job.

 

*Always spin your weaknesses into positives!

7)      What are your strengths?

a.       My drive, passion, and punctuality. I enjoy learning new things and get a huge thrill out of being productive. I can probably count on one hand how many times in my life I have been late for anything.  I am extremely organized, in all areas of my life.  I handle stress well, as I can take on a lot of work at one time and accomplish it all efficiently.

I know the value of hard work, as I have worked in several offices and the college in which I intend is centered around work ethic.

8)      What are your hobbies?

a.       I enjoy a lot of common things such as shopping, swimming, and hanging out with friends.  Making outfits, accessorizing, reading Teen Vogue, Seventeen, and InStyle. The more out of the ordinary things consist of reading, future planning, and organizing. I do a lot of cleaning because I enjoy straightening things up.

 

9)      What is your greatest achievement?

a.       Being salutatorian of my class is likely my biggest achievement. I fought hard for it all four years of high school, competing with two other girls constantly because our GPA’s were always so close. Being able to make a speech in front of everyone in town was probably one of the most invigorating experiences.  I have also maintained a 4.0 GPA the last three semesters of college, with an overall 3.91 GPA (making the President’s List).

 

10)   Who do you look up to the most, i.e. hero?

a.       As cliché as it sounds, my mother. She is the most independent person I know, and she has been the most encouraging to me through this internship process.  She has pushed me to dream, and she has been the disciplinarian in my life.  With her strong personality and will to push me to succeed, she has given me the strength to be the woman I am today. 

 

11)   Describe yourself in one word.

a.       Driven.  Everything I have ever done I have always put my all into it. I like the feeling of accomplishing something, it never gets old.  The thrill, the love for success.  It makes me happy.

b.      Other words: Organized, Efficient, Loyal, Dedicated, Professional, Perfectionist, Creative.

 

12)   How do you steal with staff issues?

a.       I don’t usually have conflicts with co-workers, as I am not a huge fan of drama, but if this were to occur I would explain that we need to keep our issues out of the workplace and to remain professional.  It isn’t necessary to fight in a place where we are supposed to be working.

 

13)   What is your availability?

a.       I am available as of the third week of May.  If you need me sooner, I will can do whatever you need me to do.

 

14)   Tell me about yourself.

a.       Well, I am a junior at College of the Ozarks. I am a cheerleader, office assistant at the Registration Office, Sociology Club Vice President, and a member of the Rotaract Club.  I am on the President’s Honor List (4.0 GPA).  I love fashion, as anyone who knows me know that.  Moving to New York or spending time there has been my dream since middle school.  My heart for clothes started when I realized that my greatest joy came out of the outfits I put together.  I started styling my family, eventually venturing out to friends and even aquaintances.  My happiness, heart, and soul would go into every outfit, and everyone began to notice.  Ever since, I’ve been known as a “fashionista,” and I would have it any other way.  I enjoy being busy, having fun, and growing spiritually.

Here is a few topics that you may be asked about if you're interviewing for a fashion-based opportunity:

1)      Favorite Fashion Brands/Designers:

a.       Michael Kors

                                                              i.      The Metallic bags from last season are my absolute favorite.  I have a brown one right now that I cannot let go of!

                                                            ii.      My go-to bag is my black-leather MK satchel. It has gold accents, and it is timeless.  I can wear it for a day that is professional business, business casual, or just a night on the town.  It is definitely my go-to bag!

                                                          iii.      I wear my Michael Kors watch every day.  It is a classic piece of jewelry.  I do not wear it every day, but I could.

                                                           iv.      My black-leather Michael Kors boots are my favorite.  I can wear them with cute skinny jeans or I can dress them up with a skirt.

b.      ShoeDazzle

                                                              i.      Designer styles for a price the average consumer can enjoy.

                                                            ii.      Runway inspired styles, professional for a better price.

                                                          iii.      Most of my shoes come from this site. Fashionista on a budget!

 

c.       Ralph Lauren

                                                              i.      I go to Ralph Lauren for my professional/chic looks.  From turtle necks to polos, when I am needing to look like the President’s Daughter, Ralph knows what’s up.

d.      Betsey Johnson               

                                                              i.      Her quirky style brightens my day!  I own a few of her handbags, and I get so many compliments on how unique they are.  From funky patterns to bright colors, Betsey has it going on.

2)      Favorite fashion blogger:

a.       Cassandra Bankson

                                                              i.      Ever since her YouTube debut for her foundation routine, I’ve learned to be comfortable in my own skin.  She was so open and honest about her true beauty; it inspired me to look past my insecurities, and that it is okay to wear make-up to enhance your look.  I have had similar struggles with complexion, but I have managed to combat them over the years.  It was so great to watch someone with the same struggles that I had go on with life with such grace.  Her collection of Louboutin’s is phenomenal!

3)      Favorite Oscars looks:

a.       Kate Hudson in Atelier Versace. It’s Kate Hudson, she’s beautiful no matter what, but that dress was perfection. The low-cut front was a classy yet scandalous touch!

b.      Ireland Baldwin in Burberry.  Ugh! This one might be my favorite.  I LOVE the red lace, and the detailing is so unique.

c.       Lupita N’yongo in Prada. The ice-blue silk tone of the dress was so innocent and beautiful.

d.      Jenna Dewan-Tatum in Reem Acrea.  Her post-baby bod rocked this dress! From her dark, sultry to the gorgeous beading of this dress. Overall, stunning!

4)      Style Icons I Admire:

a.       Blake Lively:  She is my all-time favorite.  I have followed her style ever since she started Gossip Girl.  I grew to love Blake’s individual style, not her character’s.  She styles herself and never fails!

b.      Lily Collins:  Her dark, bold looks are daring and chic.

c.       Suki Waterhouse: She always looks fabulous.  She chooses British brands, including Burberry!

d.      Sarah Jessica Parker:  Sex and the City is my guilty pleasure.  I love how she is more than her character, Carrie Bradshaw.  She is a fashionista herself, and I love her colorful choices!

 

5)      Favorite current trends:

a.       Word-tees: I love a shirt with a bold state (appropriate of course)

b.      Nautical, professional looks: I love a nautical outfit of reds and blues. Very Ralph Lauren!

c.       Metallics: From shoes to handbags, metallic is my go-to for dressing up or just for sprucing up a laid-back look.

d.      Florals:  I love mixed floral prints!

6)      Decade of choice:

a.       The roaring 20’s.  I love classic looks; pearl and lace is beautiful and charming! A little flapper scandal here and there.

7)      Music:

a.       Jimmy Eat World, The Shins, Trespassers William, Imogen Heap, Demi Lovato, Keane, The Wreckers.

b.      Kid Cudi, Norah Jones, Erin McCarley, Rihanna, Lifehouse, The Script.