Style File: the cowboy boot

I’m not sure if it’s just the Texas girl in me or what, but I absolutely love a cowboy boot moment. In fact, as the weather gets colder, I’m kind of in the mood to wear cowboy boots with all of my looks. They are incredibly chic and very comfortable which is everything to me. I want edgy style but comfort is essential when running around after a toddler so I can’t shop the way I used to. After my closet cleanse, I made the vow to be super strategic with my wardrobe purchases. I just love the vibe they give to any casual or chic look. Let’s discuss the cowboy boot moment.

images via @zinafashionvibe

Here are two really chic looks that have spurred my inspiration. I love a tall black boot, that is probably my go-to move. I am loving it here on Christine Centera with the all black super casual street style, so stylish. I also love a good jeans tucked in boots moment with a blouse, that is very French Vogue.

I adore this white faux snake skin cowboy ankle boot from Free People. They remind me of the Isabel Marant look in the main photo.

HERE IS A BREAKDOWN OF THE COWBOY BOOT LOOKS I HAVE MY EYE ON:

I have my eye on these tall Frye Carsons in nude suede for school drop off looks.

Wouldn’t this tall red cowboy boot look so chic with a long floral maxi dress for a girls night?

I used to have an everyday tall black leather cowboy boot (see main image above) that I wore all the time but I wore them out, so I need a new pair and I have my eye on these.

I also really like the idea of a tall black suede boot, something a little fancy for everyday.

How fun would date night be with these python print beauties?

I actually have a pair of these short suede booties and they work so well for cute coffee dates with friends.

I have been dying for a pair of white boots like the Free People ones above, so this faux python situation looks very modern yet with a sophisticated vibe for anything work.

What are your thoughts? Do we love the cowboy boot moment or am I on my own here?? Hope these inspire you to zhush up your daily look.

Everything you need to know about lash extensions

Hello darlings. Okay so, let’s discuss one of my most favorite things ever invented. Like of all time.

Eyelash extensions.

They are my absolute favorite luxury. Before I took the plunge and got lash extensions, I would try to apply drugstore lashes myself but always felt like a walking clown. They felt heavy, over-glued and seriously off center. I hated wearing them but I love the effect of extra bold lashes.

The first time I tried them I was terrified. I heard so many stories about glue burning your eyes and lashes all falling out, never growing back the same. There were so many horror stories. Fortunately, none of those things has ever happened to me. Having lash extensions has been an amazing experience. I often get complimented on my lashes and asked a lot of questions, so I felt a blog post would be a perfect way to share all the secrets. Here are my tips for getting a beautiful set of luscious lashes.

Find the right person. You’ve got to do your research and find a really good place. A place you like and feels comfortable to you. You will be sitting in their chair anywhere from 1-3 hours, so you’ll want to vibe with the person. I have had one bad experience when I went to someone new, in a different city. I’ll never do that again. It was awful.

My girls are incredible. If you are in Austin, go see Amanda @lashsistersaustin . If you are in Houston, go see Maria @ria_lash . Tell them Ashlina sent you and they will hook you up.

When you’re looking for someone, you’ll want to make sure they have the proper license and credentials. Find their reviews and read them ALL, every single one. Really see if you can get a feel for their work. I personally like to know that they have a strong Instagram and show that they are focused on growing their business. I love a hustler and a perfectionist. So if their images look good and their media looks chic, I’m a fan. Presentation is everything in business.

Be very clear about what you want. I’ve seen people ask for full lashes and come out looking like Janice, the blonde muppet. Like, you want to be very clear and specific about what you want. They make all kinds of lashes, mink, faux, hybrid, etc. They have shape, curl size, length, all sorts of variables. Do your research before hand so you can be very clear with your girl. Keep in mind, a good lash girl will have an in depth consultation with you and guide you to what’s best for your needs.

I personally use the single lash, with a D curl. I like mine between 11-13 mm and a little long on the arch of the eye, in the cat eye shape.

FAQ:

Does it hurt? No, never. I have never felt anything when getting them done.

Do they rip out your lashes? Do your lashes grow back? My lashes have always maintained even when they fall out. I highly recommend letting them fall out, NEVER try to remove them yourself. I have heard of lashes falling out but that was because of poor glue job so just make sure you go to a strict professional.

How long do they last? My lashes always last about 3 weeks but I take really good care of them and brush them every morning and every night.

Here’s what mine look like a few days after the appointment:

WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOUR LASH APPOINTMENT:

-Begin taking Biotin or HSN vitamins to help your lashes get stronger.

-Day of appointment, do not wear any eye makeup, or makeup that may fall into the eye area. Avoid wearing contact lenses, too.

-Let people know you will be unavailable by phone for 1-3 hours. Set aside time you won’t be able to answer the phone or respond to texts.

-Wear a sweater. Most eyelash rooms are very cold because they need to keep the temp chilly for the lashes and glue.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR LASHES:

-Under NO circumstances can you get your lashes wet for 24 hours. If you don’t wear makeup, you can skip washing your face after the application.

-No heat or steam for 24 hours. No working out, swimming, grilling, sauna, steam room, facials, etc.

-Use oil free products in your skin care regime, so it doesn’t loosen the glue and lashes last longer.

-Don’t wear mascara. If you do decide to wear it, apply it only on the ends of the lash, that was it is easier to clean.

-Don’t rub or pull on your lashes.

-Wet a clean mascara wand and brush your lashes every morning and night. This is how I clean and care for my lashes.

-Sleep on a silk beauty pillow. They really help with skin, oils and all the bacteria.

-Schedule a refill about 2-3 weeks after application. If you care for them well, they should last a good 3 weeks.

Hope these tips help you & if you want more posts like this, let me know in the comments below. I am always happy to share. Love, Ashlina