Kylee's Korner

I am a former model and current mother who loves the beauty and fashion industry and seeks the best products and value to keep myself current. I blog to share my thoughts, expertise and research with those who follow me. Those who read my blog gain insight into fashion, save money and avoid frustrations on the products they purchase.

  • Hi there! I am Kylee, a former model and current mother who loves the beauty and fashion industry and seeks the best products and value to keep myself current. I blog to share my thoughts, expertise and research with those who follow me. Those who read my blog gain insight into fashion, save money and avoid frustrations on the products they purchase. Learn more about me here!

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Bringing Out Your Inner Animal

Has anyone else noticed the abundance of animal print hitting the runways and stores this year? I can’t think of the last time I looked at shoes or clothes and didn’t see leopard spots staring back at me. And, guess what? I am totally here for it! I have spotted (pun intended) some of the cutest shoes, handbags and clothes this year that are rocking stripes, spots and other awesome patterns. I think animal print is fun, flirty and playful. It can be perfect for a date night on the town, a casual day of errands or a TGIF vibe in the office. I have linked some of my favorite prints below that I am slowly trying to add to my wardrobe! If you are a first time animal print wearer, I suggest you get your feet wet now and snag one of these fun staples to add to your closet. Animal print is hot and trending and I don’t see it going anywhere anytime soon! Happy shopping, ladies!

Clothes

Wild Fable Oversized Sweater

Target does a great job of staying on trend and keeping clothes affordable. I love this oversized sweater for a cool fall night. It’s also a fun animal print that you don’t see as much as others.

Leopard Print Satin Blouse

This satin blouse is a perfect piece that can be worn multiple ways. Throw a cami on during the day while wearing it to the office. For a sexy date night out, take the cami off and rock the plunging neckline.

Leopard Pullover Sweater

I love the large leopard print on this comfy pullover sweater. The length is long enough to wear with jeans or leggings and it’s currently on sale, too!

Shoes

Leopard Print Microsuede Slip On Sneakers

Target to the rescue, again! These slip on sneakers are so much fun! I love the extra height of the platform and the lack of laces. They are perfect to pair with any outfit while running errands or going out for a night of fun with the girls!

Tiger or Leopard Print Steve Madden Flats

I am currently obsessing over these Steve Madden flats. I love the pointy toe loafer and that they come in two different animal prints to choose from!

Leopard Print Open Toe Booties

These leopard print booties are perfect to wear while transitioning from summer to fall. I also think block heels make booties more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. These would be perfect dressed down with jeans or dressed up for work!

Handbags

Leopard Chain Handle Bucket Bag

How fun is this leopard print bucket bag from Express? It is a perfect size for date night and adds some pizzazz to your outfit.

Leopard Print Crossbody Bag

I love this crossbody bag from J Crew. It is the perfect size when running some errands by yourself or going on a date night. It is also currently on sale and under $50!

Leopard Tote

I always love a good tote bag because of all room that they provide. I have a serious crush on this tote from Express. It is a perfect size to carry all of yours and your kids stuff when out. The strap is also removable which gives you two looks for the price of one!

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How to Take Care of Your Skin

Hi friends! If you have been following me for awhile, you know that I am always posting tutorials on cute and easy hairstyles and makeup how-tos. One other thing that is really important to me that I have spoken about is skin care. I think it is vital that women have a daily skin care routine, no matter what their age is. I think when we are younger we don’t always realize how much skin care plays an important role in our overall appearance. If you have not started to yet, get yourself into the habit now of dedicating a few extra minutes every morning and evening to take care of your skin. It is one of the best things you will do for yourself and gives you a few extra minutes of quiet! Check out some of my skin care tips below!

Develop A Skin Care Routine

Try to devote time every morning and evening to taking care of your skin. After you get out of the shower, grab your favorite moisturizer and put lotion on your entire body. This leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth, while keeping it hydrated. Next, move onto your face. Find a moisturizer that is designed for your face only and that works with your skin type. Sometimes it is a trial and error before you find one that you really love. Before bedtime, make sure you are designating another few minutes to your skin. Never sleep in makeup- make sure you wash everything off with soap and water or a makeup remover of your choice. Find another moisturizer along with any other serums you might find beneficial and put on before you lay down. This gives your skin the entire night to absorb all the nutrients from what you just put on it. Show your lips some love, too- don’t forget to throw on a good lip balm to sleep in.

Watch What You Drink

I recently wrote another blog on my most underrated beauty secret which was drinking lots of water (you can see the blog here). Water has a ton of health benefits, including helping to improve your skin and keep it hydrated. It is also helpful to avoid caffeine and alcohol whenever possible since both can dehydrate you and leave your skin looking pale and tired.

Limit Hot Water

I love a hot shower or bath as much as the next girl, especially when its cold outside. However, if the water you are putting onto your skin is too hot, it can remove oils from your skin that your body needs. This doesn’t mean you have to skip on the hot showers every time. When you can, try to set the water to warm instead or limit the number of minutes you are bathing.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating is great for your skin, if you are not doing it every day. It removes the dry and dead skin cells that are on the surface and helps increase blood circulation. I would recommend trying to exfoliate twice a week. There are a ton of different products and tools that can help with this- I would research what you think will work best for your specific skin type.

Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen plays a major role in having healthy skin. A lot of moisturizers and foundations now have built in sunscreen to add an extra layer of protection on your face. However, don’t forget about making sure the rest of your body is covered when heading outside for a day in the sun!

Try Self-Tanners

When I was younger, I loved having a beautiful tan glow to my skin. However, sunbathing or tanning in a salon has been proven to be really damaging to your skin. Not only can it cause major health issues, tanning can also leave your skin looking worn out and wrinkled. There are so many self-tanners that are on the market that get amazing reviews. If you are in the mood to rock a tan, I suggest checking one of them out instead!

Get Enough Sleep

I know this can be easier said than done. Most women wear multiple hats and there never seems to be enough hours in the day. However, making sure you get enough sleep is not only important for your overall health and wellbeing, but it can help your skin look better as well. When we are tired our skin tends to look more washed out, pale and those pesky dark shadows pop up under our eyes. Try to get into a routine where you can wind down as early as possible every night and get yourself some much deserved rest.

See A Dermatologist

If you can see a dermatologist once a year, it is a good habit to get into, especially the older we get. Check with your health benefits provider and see what your insurance will cover. Most dermatologists suggest getting a full body scan once a year to make sure everything on your skin looks healthy.

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7 Yummy Water Infusions That Naturally Boost Energy

Today I was at the gym and in a slump. My energy level was nosediving fast. I don’t typically like taking energy supplements or drinks because I feel like I spike fast and then crash hard. Plus, they make me jittery. I prefer more natural energy boosts and these infused waters are amazing! They’re all made of wholesome fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs that pack a real power punch. Take them in a shaker bottle to the gym, or mix one up at home when you need a little zap of energy.

7 Yummy Water Infusions That Naturally Boost Energy

1. Peaches and cinnamon

Peaches are not only refreshing and juicy, but they’re full of vitamin C and can help combat free radicals that cause cancer. Fill a mason jar, blender bottle, or one of these awesome infused water bottles (which I highly recommend) with cold water, ice, and sliced peaches. Add a little cinnamon for an energizing kick. Cinnamon is a powerful superfood with anti-inflammatory properties that can help you recover from your workouts easier.

2. Lemon, honey, and cayenne

If you’ve done a juice cleanse before, then you’ve probably had a shot of lemon water with cayenne. A lot of exercise gurus have touted this drink as detoxifying and metabolism boosting. It’s a powerful gulp of both spicy and sour; that’s why I like to add a tablespoon of honey as well.

The vitamin C and acidity in lemons turn toxins into digestible material that your body can flush. Cayenne pepper increases your body temperature and speeds up your metabolism, helping you get more out of your workouts. And in addition to a little sweetness (it really does help the medicine go down), honey can help heal wounds and ward off infection. For only three ingredients, that’s quite a natural power drink!

3. Grapefruit, lemon, and mint

There is nothing more refreshing and delicious than a juicy grapefruit, and infused in water, it’s delicious. Grapefruit is a natural energizer and can even aid in weight loss. It’s a win-win as this drink is both yummy and insanely healthy!

Add a few slices of grapefruit, lemon, and mint to a cup of ice cold water. The mint can reduce stress, freshen your breath, and improve your mental awareness and focus. Goodby sluggishness!

4. Goji berries and lime

Goji berries are little oblong red berries that grow in Chinese regions. They are extremely healthy. You can actually try growing your own goji berry tree at home. Goji berries have anti-aging properties, supports your immune system, and improves depression and anxiety. It’s not easy to find fresh goji berries, but you can get dried goji berries and goji berry powder on Amazon.

Try this yummy infused tea in the morning or pre-workout: add a handful of dried goji berries to hot water. Squeeze a half a lime and let the tea sit for five minutes. You can even eat the hydrated berries when you’re done.

5. Sliced oranges and pears

This drink can be warm or cold, but I prefer cold. In an infuser bottle or shaker bottle, add slices from one orange and one pear. Add ice, shake and drink. The citrus is energizing and oranges are famous for their vitamin C, along with protecting your skin. Pears help detox and fight off free radicals. This is a yummy alternative when plain water gets a bit boring.

 

6. Strawberries, basil, and cucumber

Strawberry water is a powerful, natural detox. Add sliced strawberries to a tall glass of ice water, slice up some cucumbers for freshness, and add a few basil leaves. Delicious and incredibly healthy!

Micronutrients from fresh sliced strawberries help flush toxins and improve your skin tone while boosting your metabolism. Did you know just one serving (8 strawberries) has more vitamin C than an orange? Adding cucumber slices to water delivers antioxidants, and lowers your blood pressure. Basil is an excellent source of vitamins A, K, and C, as well as calcium, and iron so you can pump more iron.

7. Pineapple wedges and coconut water

Make your own version of a Pina colada without all the sugar. Fill a glass with ice, coconut water, and pineapple wedges for a refreshing, delicious, energizing drink. Coconut water has amazing benefits including: antioxidants, supports heart health, and contains potassium and amino acids that can boost your workout or help you recover from prolonged exercise.

Pineapple is loaded with nutrients, including vitamin C and disease-fighting antioxidants. Eating pineapple may assist in weight loss and aid in digestion as well, so go ahead and nosh that pineapple when your drink’s done.

 

On average, you should be drinking 8-9 cups of water a day. When plain water gets a bit dull, re-energize with fruit infused water and get some great health boosts at the same time.

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Summer Activities That Mom Will Love, Too

Summer break is in full swing. I recently wrote a blog that shares some tips on how I help make summer break a success in our house. However, if your kids are anything like mine, their attention spans can be short and I’m constantly on the hunt for new things for us to try. I always love doing all the fun, crazy and silly things that keep them laughing and exploring, but I will admit that there are some things I like doing more than others. Surly I am not the only Mom who cries a little bit on the inside when they ask to make slime or decorate something in glitter! I think my carpets and floors will forever have a sparkle to them. However, there are some activities that we have tried this summer that have been thoroughly enjoyable for the kiddos and me. If time allows you to, give some of these a try and let me know how it goes!

 

Outdoor Fun

It is no secret that Cody and I love to be outdoors. I am so glad we are passing that joy down to our children. Some of our best memories from this summer are when we are outdoors playing.

Hairdresser

Any other ladies love having their hair played with? It is so relaxing and luckily my daughter loves to do it! We set up a pretend hair salon and I gladly take on the role of being her muse.

Bake or Cook

Yes- this one can get a bit messy, but I love to have my kids helping me out in the kitchen. Since we are already creating the mess, I try to have us make something that we can take advantage of eating throughout the week. They love to learn new recipes and get excited when Daddy comes home to try our newest creation!

Outdoor Movie

Movie time is always fun. I love to snuggle up as a family and laugh. During the summer, it can be a really nice change of pace to have a movie night outside. Gather neighbors and friends, find someone with a projector, and grab lots of pillows. All that is left to do is sit back and relax!

Scrapbooking

I know most people do not print out pictures like they used to. If you are like me, all of your photo albums are now stored on your phone, but I do still love going through old family photos from when I was younger. My kids also enjoy when I take time to print out pictures of them and put them into a scrapbook. It gives them a fun craft to work on for the afternoon while preserving something that will hopefully be really special to them one day.

Reading

We are big fans of going to the public library and picking out books to read. One of my favorite things to do with the kids is finding a book that is fun and appropriate for all of them and reading together as a family at night. We look forward to picking up on the next chapter every evening and seeing where the story is heading!

Volunteer

I have always enjoyed helping others and I love that we are instilling these values into our kids. I do not think they are ever to young to learn the importance of lending a helping hand to someone who is in need. Check out your local resources to find volunteer opportunities that would be appropriate for you and your kids to try together!

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Top Accessories That Will Transform Your Outfit

If you guys have been following me on Facebook or Instagram for awhile, you know I’m usually all about leggings and workout gear for my daily look. It’s comfortable and quick when I’m running my kids around or doing errands. Plus, I’m already in what I need to wear for my workout later that day. Being a busy mom of three, I’m always about what saves myself time. However, that doesn’t mean I’ve stopped loving to glam it up for date night, family events, church or a day I want to feel a little extra. After sifting through my closet and finding what I want to wear for that day or night, I’m still only halfway done getting ready. To me, one of the most enjoyable parts of getting ready is choosing what accessories I’m going to pair with my outfit. I believe taking time out to accessorize is what pulls your entire look together and shows off your personality. You can also do a quick accessory change at night to change the vibe of your afternoon look. By simply swapping out small earrings to large hoops, flats to heels, or a large tote purse to a clutch, you’ve changed the entire attitude of your outfit. I’ve listed below my favorite go to accessories that will make any outfit feel complete!

Jewelry

Jewelry is one of the easiest accessories to add to your outfit. I don’t think jewelry needs to be expensive to make an outfit look amazing. I have my go to pieces that I usually wear when I’m dressing up (by dressing up, I mean no workout gear). I think every girl should own a pair of hoops, studs, stackable bracelets and a few necklaces in different lengths. This provides plenty of options to switch up your look for that day’s activity. 

Handbags

Handbags are by far my favorite accessory. I’m usually lugging around a large tote so I can carry the 100,000 plus items my kids might need while we are out. But, if I’m going out with just my hubby for the evening, I like to switch to a small clutch or crossbody. I recently wrote a blog about my love for handbags and some that are trending right now. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you can see it here. You still have time to snag one of these beauties for this summer!

Shoes

If you can’t tell by the pictures below, another one of my favorite accessories is shoes! I am a firm believer a girl can never have enough shoes! I think shoes are one of the most versatile staples to add to an outfit. If you have a summer dress on during the day while running errands, put on a pair of converse or sneakers to make your look casual and comfortable for walking. Instead of changing your entire outfit for a night out, swap your comfy shoes to a cute pair of sandals or flip flops for a fun evening look. Some people like to match whatever color shoes they have on to their handbag, others mix it up. I always believe you should do whatever makes you feel your best!

Hair Accessories 

Hair accessories are usually a quick, easy and affordable way to add some extra pizazz to your daily look. I love throwing on a bandana, or cute clip after I finish my hairstyle for the day. I also think hats are super fun to dress up an outfit. Plus, they are a perfect time saver on not having to style or wash your hair for the day. I am all about stretching my hair washes for as long as I can and a hat is a perfect tool in helping me!

Jackets 

Jackets are cute, fun and functional. There are always days where the weather is expected to be a bit unpredictable. If I am not sure if I might end up getting chilly at some point, I like to tie a jacket around my waist or leave one in the car. They are also great for making a fancier dress have a more casual vibe, or dressing up a simple look.

 

Scarves

Scarves are like jackets to me. They provide function and style. I think a lot of people think scarves are only worn when running around outside in the cold weather. I love to pair them up with my outfit for the day during cooler months. This way I am keeping warm and looking stylish while doing it!