LA by Diana - Personal Style blog by Diana Marks

June 19, 2015

American Girl

This post is promoted by Target

It's time for the second installment of the Target swimsuit series (read the first one here). It's so easy to get lost in Target aisles and find so many amazing pieces literally at a steal! I was looking for another swimsuit to flaunt my body shape and I found this one in an American flag print. This time I decided not to hide my hips, but rather accentuate them with a fun print bikini. I never thought that this print could look so great!

The obvious choice for an outfit styled with this bikini was denim overalls and a backpack - it somehow feels all-American :)

Alternative ways of styling include these shorts and this denim vest, or a fun romper like this one.

My Secrets Spilled

As you know, I have partnered with Skinny Cow this month for an exciting "What's My Secret" Campaign. Skinny Cow encouraged me to share my secrets of a good and easy life and I have quite a few. Today I want to talk about taking time for yourself.
In the 21st century we are always on-the-go, always connected and always working (not to mention motherhood, which is a 24/7 lifetime commitment that I admire, but am yet to experience) , we have less and less time for ourselves, and some of us don't even know when and how to put ourselves first any more. My secret is just about that. No matter how busy I am, or what's going on in my life, I try to squeeze in a short walk (even 20 minutes a day and even if it means that I have to cancel something in my schedule) to relax, unwind and recharge. I put on my stylish workout clothes and go for a walk around my neighborhood. I try to choose different routes depending on the day. Sometimes, I choose the park if I am looking for peace and relaxation, other times I wander through the residential area of my neighborhood exploring beautiful houses for distraction and creativity. And one of my favorite routes is the Golden Triangle of Beverly Hills, which is a grid of small commercial streets filled with shops and restaurants. At the center of it is the famous, always sunny and clean, Rodeo drive, which I absolutely love to explore for inspiration and motivation. I love doing window shopping and watching stylish locals mixed with tourists from all over the world and their beautiful cars passing by. I also like taking some light treats with me for an extra boost of endorphins. Luckily, Skinny Cow, offers a great choice for such occasions. They have a wide variety of ice creams, iced coffees and candies. My favorite is the Iced Coffee (love the Mocha flavor!) - it's easy to carry and is a great mid-afternoon pick-me-up! Share your secret tips on Twitter with the hashtag #SkinnyCowSecret. Direct your message to @TheSkinnyCow for a chance to receive a sweet treat (coupon). More details HERE.

Glam Farm Girl

I love summer fashion for it's simplicity and a huge variety of summer dresses, espadrilles and sunnies. Got brand new additions to each of my collections :)

Print Short

The Duchess

You guys know how much I am obsessing with remarkable dresses that make me feel like royalty. Here is another stunning piece of art from the very talented Silvia Bours. I literally had people stop and stare at me while shooting these photos and when we were done, they'd come closer to see all the details. And those details are definitely something to talk about! The beautiful neck is embroidered with Swarovski crystals, pearls and fabric flowers - it looks even more magical in real life. But most importantly, the feeling you have while wearing it, is incredible - you truly become royalty, even for just one night. Enjoy!

Skinny Cow Secret Events and Samples

What I love about my job is a chance to work with all sorts of different brands. This month I am very lucky, because I am collaborating with delicious Skinny Cow. If you follow me on socials networks, you know that I am quite a foodie and I definitely enjoy occasional indulgences. And what a better treat is there than a simple pleasure, every girl's favorite - ICE CREAM! I love that Skinny Cow's ice cream is low fat so you won't consume a ton of calories while enjoying it - definitely a guilt free treat!

I couldn't choose one flavor from Skinny Cow's range, because they all seem delicious. Therefore, I am going to attend their sampling event next weekend in Westfield Culver City to try out all the products and choose my favorite. If you are up for a fun ice cream night, come along!

Furthermore, to extend their "What's Your Secret" campaign initiative, Skinny Cow asked me to leak you a little secret. The brand will be throwing a Secret Speakeasy Event on June 11th from 5-10PM at the Edison in LA. You'll get to meet the experts who will serve up their secrets tips on living an indulgent fab life, try delightful Skinny Cow treats and have the chance to walk away with some cool swag too! Sounds fun to me! Join me there and definitely come say hi! RSVP HERE

This post is promoted by Skinny Cow

Thanks to Skinny Cow® Ice Cream Bars, Creamy Iced Coffee and Candy, our secrets can all be a little sweeter. Follow Skinny Cow on TWITTER

June 1, 2015

Overalls and Mules

Happy June, my friends. Summer is just around the corner. Check out my guest article on Loehmann's blog about "Summer trends that never go out of style" HERE.

The Power of a Muscle Car: All New Ford Mustang

I know, I know. This post is long overdue. I've been teasing you guys with this car on my socials for a while now, and finally I have time to tell you more about my Ford Mustang experience. I got to drive the car for about a week and frankly, I have grown quite attached to it :)

At first, I was a little intimidated to test the car, since I always thought that it was a masculine car, but boy, was I wrong. Even though it's still a true power car, it now has all new sophisticated design and very user friendly interface and ergonomics. It's very easy to operate, extremely safe and most importantly just cool (435 horsepower is no joke)! I felt confident and powerful driving the car around and catching so many looks from the people around ;) The Mustang illuminates class, power and control and drives like a world class sports car for a fraction of a price. Seriously, it's a true statement!

Since the car is all about freedom, confidence and comfort, so was my look. A daring sweatshirt (I agree with the statement on it by the way ;)), comfy shorts and ankle boots are all you need to look cool without even trying - same goes for the fabulous Mustang!

Classy in Black and White and Memorial Day Sale

Memorial day weekend is finally here and I am so excited for sales that are happening everywhere all weekend long! My particular interest is my favorite Lulu's, which is celebrating this weekend by having a HUGE sale with items up to 50% off!!! Check out the amazing selection HERE - I literally want to buy everything now! The sale ends on Monday, May 25th, at 11:59PST. On that Monday (May 25th) Lulu's will be shipping everything for free in celebration of Memorial day! Check out their sale category HERE. The dress I am wearing here is also available - I am so obsessed with it - it's affordable but so gorgeous and well made!

Target Loves Everybody

This post is promoted by Target

When Target asked me to discuss this topic, I immediately jumped on board since it's an ongoing battle for me and, I am sure, many other women. We are talking about confidence during swim season. Target is on a quest to encourage confidence and excitement this summer by celebrating every body type with a variety of swimsuits in styles, sizes and shapes that fit everyone.

Let's talk real. We all have our insecurities when it comes to a beach body. The first time I approached this topic on the blog was two years ago (read here), but not much has changed since then. Except for the fact that I learned that the right fit of swimsuit is the key determinant of your confidence on the beach. I usually spend days looking for a perfect swimsuit and try countless options (whether it's shopping online or in store). My body is pear-shaped (no matter how much I hate it, so I might as well start loving it :) ) and therefore picking the right swimsuit that accentuates my advantages and hides my flaws is extremely important. After trying countless swimsuit options at my local Target, I found this one - it highlights my body's natural curves and, most importantly, hides the widest part of the body with a little mini skirt, making it appear more proportional. I love the retro theme of the swimsuit - it's definitely one of my favorites.

But now that I have invested so much time and money finding the right swimsuit, I don't need to limit myself to the beach any more. There are countless layering options incorporating my swimsuit into a variety of summer looks. I can style it with pants and skirts, and even throw a blazer on top of it for a professional office look. But my favorite look so far is the one below. It is a perfect one for a classy weekend shopping stroll, a nice mid-summer brunch or a romantic July date. The swimsuit therefore is a centerpiece for any occasion ;)

Love your bodies, stay confident and have fun this swim season with Target ;)

Princess in Pink

There are some dresses that immediately make you feel like a real princess. This one from Maje is one of them - full skirt, beautiful texture and gorgeous pastel pink color came together in a stunning piece. I am definitely in love with it. Happy Sunday!

By the way, have you guys heard of the new body contouring treatment here in Beverly Hills? I am going to check it out soon.

A Pop of Color

Sometimes color-popping doesn't necessarily have to come from clothing. I was wearing this all-white look the other day and decided to create a pop of color not even with accessory, but with a useful thing - a bottle of water that I carry with me anyways :) Happy Friday!

Pineapple Mood

I have been obsessing with Ily Couture's Pineapple tops and this one is my favorite! It's so fun and so easy to style. Went with extremely ripped boyfriend jeans with busted knees and fun sunnies. Added Ily Couture's necklace and other golden accessories for a touch of glam. Happy Monday!

Simple

Let's Cook: healthy, easy and delicious!

Most of you are probably aware that I don't cook. At all. My wildest cooking achievements are boiling rice, making an omelette and making two-ingredient pancakes. I am a great smoothie chef though, but that's another story ;)

But recently things have changed. Ever since I have partnered up with Blue Apron and tried out their service, I think I might have discovered my new passion. Not for cooking in general though, but definitely for cooking with Blue Apron.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this subscription meal planning service, each week they deliver farm-fresh ingredients in exactly the right proportions straight to your doorstep. The ingredients come in a refrigerated box with a step by step cooking guide of your meal. What's even more exciting is that their meals never repeat themselves, which means that every time you get a box, there is a meal you've never had before. It definitely saves a lot of planning time, creativity, grocery shopping and waste from unused ingredients. Moreover, they offer a large selection of recipes on their site, and are always adding new dishes to their menu every week. I am already eyeing to try a few other recipes form their site, particularly Swedish Style Turkey Meatballs. They look so delicious!
With free shipping, no commitment (you can skip and cancel the service any time!) and shipping to over 80% of the country, it's definitely a service to try! By the way, you can try your first 2 meals for FREE: just click HERE and join!

The meal that I am showcasing today is Almond-Crusted Cod with Coconut Rice and Ginger Spinach.

Tie-Dye Jumpsuit

Today's look is an experiment and judging by your social media feedback, it's a successful one. I don't think I ever wore tie-dye before, but I will definitely reconsider it now. I found this insanely cool print at my favorite Lulus (ON SALE NOW!) and couldn't wait to get it in the mail. Once I did, I was ecstatic. Not only it looks cool and fits well, it's also very soft and comfortable - something I am definitely a fan of. Got the sandals and the sunnies at the same spot - Lulus is definitely a one stop shop.

Summer Vibes

Good morning, my friends! The weather has been changing like crazy recently and from rainy and cold Saturday we moved into real summer on Sunday. I am definitely feeling happy wearing whites. This look reminds me of the one I featured two years ago (click here to see it) - I guess my favorite summer color combinations don't change :) Happy Monday!

Florals and Pastels for Spring

I am so excited to rock spring fashion these days and one of the recent looks that I am obsessing with is again from Lulu's. The outfit gives out flirty spring vibes with very cute pastel floral romper and sexy nude mesh heels. Not only will I wear it in spring, but I'll definitely be moving it into my summer wardrobe as well ;)

Shades of Blue

Romper Time

Spring is in full swing and that means it's officially romper time :) The one I am obsessing with at the moment is the neon peach romper from The Mint Julep Boutique. It's perfect for a casual stroll or a dressy night out. Accessorized with lace details to complement the look and added a backpack for a casual touch ;) Happy Monday!

Pushing the Edge with McLaren

It's time to get back to cars again with McLaren Newport Beach. This time it's my new favorite car - McLaren 650S Spider. It's a true supercar with a unique balance of luxury and excitement. And most importantly, it's is convertible - the result of true genius of McLaren innovators.

Every time I see that car, whether it's on screen or live, I get the same tingle of excitement. Every panel, every surface, every detail is simply flawless - it feels like a dream. But when I started to dig deeper, I actually found out that it's more real that it can possibly be. The ideal and efficient design is a result of innovative thinkers behind McLaren whose biggest inspiration is ever-evolving Mother Nature and the animal kingdom. What can be more real?
The 650S is the world's most versatile supercar, and the Spider takes another step further with a retractable hard top which can open you up to a whole new dimension of driving enjoyment. I am not surprised that this piece of art is designed by McLaren, which adopts the philosophy "If it doesn't push the edge, it's not good enough".

As for the look, I definitely felt like a true badass hence a leather skirt and a studded bag. But there's no true woman-power without a touch of glam and sophistication, which was created by mixing a feminine top with heavy leather details.

Festival Lookbook

This post is promoted by Target

Whether you are headed to Coachella or just jamming to tunes on a walk to class, boho looks are all the rave. Festival fashion doesn't only happen at festivals, it's everywhere as long as it's festival season ;) I have partnered with Target to create three looks inspired by three different music genres. They are incredibly affordable at Target and I think all of them would be great for any festival you are planning to attend.

So the first look showcases essential elements of any festival: a denim vest, a fedora hat and a pair of comfortable booties. This hippie-chic look is a great idea for a rock night.

Tight in Black

Jumpsuit for Business

Who says you can't be comfy in an office? I initially bought this super soft and comfy jumpsuit for leasurely weekend outings, but one day decided to style it up for a business meeting. Not only it looked good, but I felt confident and comfortable while wearing it. Try it out, ladies. You'll thank me later ;)

Festival Fashion

Since festival season is right around the corner I've decided to partner up with Sakroots and showcase their products as they will make an amazing addition to any festival look. In this post I am wearing a backpack and a crossbody from Sakroots.

If you are a person who doesn't like to carry lots of stuff around, then a crossbody is definitely for you. It has compartments for credit cards, phone and other small necessities. A perfect bag that keeps your hands free so that you can show some moves ;)

And if you a person who like to be prepared for everything, then the backpack option is just as much fun - it's spacious, light and has a great variety of prints. Speaking of prints, Sakroots items feature colorful and original artwork and they support various nature and music charities.

By the way, you can get a FREE Snakeroots tumbler in the print of your choice if you spend $50 or more and use promo code SRFestivalFinds at checkout!

As for my other must have accessories, colorful glasses and fringe boots are a MUST :) What are your festival fashion accessory go-tos?

Tank Dress

When the heat strikes like today, the only thing one can wear is a light silk tank dress, like this one from Alice and Olivia. It's super easy to style and very sexy to wear ;)
By the way, check out my latest article that I wrote on Loehmann's blog about occasional dressing!

Futuristic Glam with Lamborghini Huracan

It's time for a new installment in my "Car+Fashion" series and this time it's with Lamborghini Newport Beach's cool new Lamborghini Huracan - a perfect sports car that seems straight out of the future. It's precise technology and top level craftsmanship meet an audacious design with sharp edges and precise surfaces. Even though I didn't drive the car myself, I still had a lot of fun just sitting inside, listening to the engine (the sound of which changes with different modes of driving - street/sport/race) and watching sunny Cali views while speeding up. The Huracan's top speed is over 202 mph (325km/h), but obviously I didn't drive even close to that. You can check out the little video of my experience here :)

Various aspects of Huracan are technologically advanced, but my most favorite is full LED headlamps (and all other light functions!), which ensures higher contrast in night conditions and leaves you 100% convinced that you are driving your transformer friend (or maybe he drives you ;)). It's exciting, that with the Huracan, Lamborghini is taking a huge step into the future, and enhancing the brands illustrious history with the next automotive legend.

As for the look, since I was featuring a futuristic car, I had to go with a futuristic glam look mixing different textures of all black.

It's Tea Time

It's really hard to impress me when it comes to dresses but every once in a while I stumble upon a true beauty. This one from Maje is one of those - simple yet so chic and ladylike. Happy Weekend, my friends!

By the way, I am now on Snapchat - posting exclusive content there. Check it out, my username is byDianaMarks ;)

City Girl

How to Eat Less Sugar

Spring is only a few days away and while I am still recovering from the terrible cold I had for the past week, a month of over-eating beforehand due to my parents month-long visit (best time of my life!) and finally that very long holiday season full of treats and indulgences, I find myself a few pounds heavier and a little bit (or moderately!) out of shape. Admitting the fact is already hard enough, but then comes this really unpleasant feeling when your clothes just don't fit right anymore.

Obviously I started browsing the internet and found hundreds of articles on how to lose weight fast, but I quickly realized that as much as I desperately want to lose weight, my main concern is still health.

So I turned to my good old (or new?) friends - books (which is by far the only New Year's resolution that I keep sticking with!). I have just finished "The Body Book" by Cameron Diaz and I can't recommend it enough! It is very easy to read and, most importantly, very easy to implement. Cameron doesn't just talk about food, she touches every aspect of wellbeing in a very "21st century" way. The book is very informative, but as soon as I read the small article about sugar, I immediately bookmarked it and decided to share with you guys!

Overalls in Lincoln

I was going to share these photos with you last week, but I have been in bed for the past several days unable to move, breathe or think straight because of the nasty flu virus I caught :( Thank you so much for being incredibly sweet and supportive on my socials, your comments always make my day! But without further ado, here is my second editorial with Lincoln Navigator 2015, that I previously featured here. This time I felt like combining denim overalls and white details in a sexy and playful look to complement a big luxe SUV.

Lusting over Florals

I love wearing florals in spring so I am slowly transitioning my wardrobe and searching for new pieces to add to my closet. How do you feel about florals?

Get Ready for the Beach with Me

The weather is slowly changing and I am getting excited about swimsuit season. Target has asked me to share my beach must-haves this season and I got stuck at my local store for a few hours. They have so many different swimsuit styles that I wanted to try them all on, and it took me a while to choose the best two. They are all seriously amazing, and most importantly, affordable! So without further ado, here are my beach must haves in 2015:

1) swimsuit (better to have two in case you need a dry one immediately)

2) a big hat to cover protect your face from evil sun exposure

3) body lotion and face SPF (for the same reason as point 2)

4) a good book to pass your time in case you don't find someone interesting to watch

5) headphones (to listen to some music or pretend that you do ;))

6) lipstick, hairclip and sunglasses for immediate restyling tricks

and voila... that's it. Easy packing list with most of the items available at Target.

All American In Lincoln

Lately it's been fun, because I got to test the new Lincoln Navigator 2015 for the whole week! It was exciting and a little intimidating, since I never drove an SUV before. But I got used to it so fast, that I didn't even want to give it back in the end :)

This car is definitely a stunning and very photogenic piece of machinery. It's a perfect blend of enhanced utility, craftsmanship and comfort. The luxury SUV is surprisingly easy to operate and, most importantly, park! It's packed with the coolest latest technological advances, such as touch screen, voice activated navigation system and phone control (it's like you can literally talk to your car!), surround audio system and cross traffic alert (constantly monitoring all the blind spots and notifying you if there is another vehicle there). Overall it's a perfect vehicle for SUV lovers who enjoy enormous space, unlimited comfort and technological tricks for extra safety and fun.

As for the outfit, I felt playful and a little southern that day (having an all-American car), and lucky for me, Lulu's always has my back even if the craziest outfit ideas pop into my mind. Seriously, I thought about how much I need fringe boots this season and found them on Lulus.com right away!

Inspired by Anna Karenina

I recently came across these photos I took wearing Tacori jewelry and realized I never shared them with you guys. The concept came naturally, because I was just in the middle of reading my favorite book by Leo Tolstoy - the tragedy of an unhappily married aristocrat of Imperial Russia - Anna, her passionate affair with dashing Count Vronsky and their doomed love. Not only it still remains my number one recommended book to read, I am also obsessed with Joe Wright's adaption of the book in the movie "Anna Karenina" (2012).

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