McKenzie Renae

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Follow My New Blog!

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McKenzieRenae.com Follow the new site on Blog Lovin so you’ll never miss a post ;) No more posting on Tumblr, so don’t miss anything!

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We Moved! Check Out The New Blog Site!

McKenzieRenae.com

Follow the new site on Blog Lovin so you'll never miss a post ;) No more posting on Tumblr, so don't miss anything!

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Dope nails of the day ;) Anyone else itching for Spring?

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Review: Motions NEW Straight Finish Line [Video]

One of the cool things about natural hair, is its versatility. The fact that strands can go from curly to straight, then bounce back to beautiful curls is pretty awesome.

Recently, Motions contacted me to review their new Straight Finish "Curly to Straight" collection. I've heard great things about this system, so I was very excited to give it a try myself.

I used to straighten my hair at home myself pretty frequently. But because it's time consuming and difficult to get it as straight as my stylist does at the salon, I don't attempt as often anymore. Call it laziness.

The 411

The Straight Finish collection is a three step system providing women with natural curls, the option to straighten their much-loved curls, without losing them forever. (Funny, because I always test a straightening product based on how well my curls bounce back. I've been a victim of heat damage and would prefer not to go back down that road again.) The unique, smoothing, salon-tested formulas -- with a blend of natural oils and Keratin Protein -- PREP, PROTECT, and SEAL natural curly hair, allowing for optimal straightening results.

Motions claims that "the Bounce Back Formula preps, protects and seals your hair so your hair will return to its natural curly texture after one wash."

Review

Before picture. My curls have been fighting dryness with all this harsh winter air. I'm looking for moisture, protection, and shiny results from the Motions kit.

Step one

Take the Straight Finish Cleanser ($6.99) and gently massage it into your hair to create a generous lather. The cleanser will condition your hair making it more manageable when you begin to blow dry. I love that the cleanser includes a blend of Shea Butter, Soy Bean Oil, and Keratin Protein for optimal conditioning.

Step two

Talk about shrinkage! Isn't it crazy how much length you have when your curls are straightened out?

Next I squeezed a thick dollop of the Straight Finish Leave-in Conditioner ($6.99) in the palm of my hand, and applied it all over from root to the end. This adds a layer of moisturizers that protect the hair; including a blend of Argan Oil, Coconut Oil, and Keratin Protein.

I like to use a diffuser attachment on my blow dryer and a paddle brush. I point the diffuser on the dryer downward as I dry my hair and start from the root making sure not to concentrate too much heat on my ends.

Step three

Now it's time to seal the shaft and minimize wiry ends leaving a luminous shine with the Straight Finish Sealer ($6.99). This formula contains a blend of Argan Oil, Almond Oil, and Keratin Protein. Dispense 1 to 2 pumps of serum into the palm of your hand and finger comb through your hair before your start flat ironing or curling. This is the result of my hair after blow drying ... and it feels light, soft, and bouncy already!

......... and for the FINAL RESULTS!!

I am so pleased with the final results of my hair! The final review will be the bounce back after I wash my strands next week (I'll keep you posted on that). The new Straight to Finish line is super affordable with each product retailing for $6.99. You can find them on www.motionshair.com .

MOTIONS STRAIGHT FINISH BENEFITS

*Offers styling versatility to women with natural hair -- curly, straight and back again. *Helps alleviate natural hair concerns such as "shrinkage". *Provides optimal straightening results with a smooth, frizz-reduced finish. *Non-permanent -- curl pattern will bounce back immediately after one wash.

I want you to see the movement and body and the full step by step process by watching the video tutorial below! Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel if you haven't already!

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10 Things Not To Say At Work

I love reading a great article to get you motivated and inspired for the week to come. Today I want to share something I read over at Refinery29 titled, "10 Things Not to Say at Work".

I really enjoyed reading this article because I noticed a few of the "things not to say at work" are or have been things I've said at work. 2014 is the year to work on a better, improved you. Why not start with your career? As a woman, we should make our presence known when walking into a room and work on owning our thoughts, ideas, and feedback with confidence. Here are the seven phrases that stuck out to me the most. 

1. Does that make sense?

Many women end their statements with, "Does that make sense?" or "Do you know what I mean?". We do this because we want to make sure we were understood, but this phrasing suggests you think you were incoherent. Instead, ask your listeners, "What are your thoughts?" or say, "Let me know if you have questions about this" instead of the undermining, "Did that make sense?"

2. Just

"I just want to check in and see..." "I'm just concerned that..." We insert justs because we're worried about coming on too strong, but they make the speaker sound defensive, a little whiny and tentative. Drop 'em!

3. Just a minute and Just a little bit

"I'd like to take just a few minutes of your time" or "I'd like to tell you a little bit about our new product." Sure, be efficient and succinct -- and don't take up more time than you need -- but drop the apologetic words about infringing on another person's time. What you have to share is important and worthwhile; convey that, instead.  

4. Sorry, but ...

"Sorry to bother you but..." "Sorry if this is a silly question, but..." Don't aplogize for taking up space, or for having something to say. 

5. Undermining qualifiers

"I'm just thinking off the top of my head, but..." or "You all have been thinking about this a lot longer than I have, but..." or "I'm no expert, but..." Don't tell people why what you are about to say is likely to be wrong. Lead with confidence in the knowledge that your ideas and insights matter.

6. Rushing and piling on the words

When we don't feel we have the right to take up space in a meeting or conversation, we tend to rush through our words. We also tend to pile up phrases into one long string -- instead of using concise sentences with clear endings. Short sentences and brief pauses between those sentences connote confidence and sense of comfort in the role of speaker. They also allow the listener to absorb what you are saying and give you a moment to gather a deep breath and collect your thoughts. Punctuate and pause. 

7. Shrinking your space

This isn't about speech patterns, but it does change the way people react to what you're saying. Notice if the way you sit or stand shrinks the amount of physical space you are taking up. Take up room, uncross your hands or arms, sit tall, and make eye contact. Basically, be noticed. 

For the full article on "10 Things Not To Say At Work", visit the Refinery29 site here. 

**photo and article content courtesy of Refinery29**

Which one of these "10 Things Not To Say At Work" will you be working on in 2014?

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Dope nails of the day ;)

By esNail LA

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Threads of the Day: Gucci Prepster

"I woke up like dis, I woke up like dis ... we flawless." Has anyone else been overdosing on the new Beyonce album? Her album has been on repeat in my house since she had me wake up in the middle of the night to download it off iTunes. Speaks volumes doesn't it?

Just like her album caters to her various personalities, from sex pot to jealous girlfriend, I believe a woman approaches her wardrobe the same way. We dress according to the personality that wakes us up in the morning. This morning, my prepster personality decided to shine. 

Thread list:

Trench Coat: Banana Republic Cashmere Sweater: Nordstrom Jeans: Citizens of Humanity Boots: Gucci  

I appreciate simple style. A great pair of jeans, boots, a casual sweater, and statement jacket looks clean and to the point. Funny because I asked for this trench coat for Christmas when I was in college (way before I knew how to style it, but still style savvy), and this is probably the third time I've worn it. Next time I plan to rock it with a fitted dress underneath and sharp stiletto pumps or a sexy sandal when the weather warms back up.

I like to invest in pieces that will be timeless. I splurged on these Gucci boots last Fall and absolutely love them. I don't wear them enough because I don't want to scuff them up (giggles). The gold studs on the heel add the perfect dose of rockstar edge to my outfits, and the soft burgundy leather is to die for. 

I have been having a really great twist out week. My stylist used Ouidad products on my hair this last visit and I loved the results! I'll be back with more news on what worked out in my hair.

So tomorrow, wake up and be flawless! What's your favorite song off the new Beyonce album?

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Dope nails of the day ;)

I am really into this oval shaped nail! What is your go-to red polish? 

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Dope Find: Make Up For Ever Chromatic Mix

Calling all makeup artists. There's a new product on the market and you may want to add it to your kit for the new year. 

The new Make Up For Ever Chromatic Mix consist of six shades of liquid pigments that can be mixed with any type of water or oil based product to create your perfect color. This product is unique and innovative. According to the website, the chromatic mix can be used on any part of the body and are adapted to all skin types. The six colors available are white, yellow, blue, red, brown, and black. 

Use these liquid pigments in your existing formula: white to lighten, black or brown to deepen, yellow to brighten, red to warm, and blue to cool.

How to Apply

Mix a small amount of Chromatic Mix with liquid foundation to alter and customize colors. Use oil based chromatic mix with oil or silicone based foundations. Use water based chromatic mix with water based foundations. 

For more information on the Make Up For Ever Chromatic Mix, you can visit the website here. Each bottle retails individually at $14.

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Rihanna For Balmain [Photos]

Balmain has never looked better, tapping Rihanna to be their new face in the forthcoming Spring/Summer 2014 campaign. 

The labels creative director Oliver Rousteing describes the rock star at an "icon", expressing,

"In front of the camera, she makes you feel like she is the only girl in the world. When the woman that inspires you wears your creations, your vision feels complete."

l love that Rousteing chose Rih Rih for the spring campaign. She exudes rock star and has mega sex appeal which is perfectly in line with the Balmain brand. Check out some addition photos below of Rih from the campaign.

Stylish and sexy. Great campaign!

Campaign Credits:

Photographer: Shot in New York by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin Styling: Mel Ottenberg (Rihanna's personal stylist) Hair: Yusef Makeup: Yadim 

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Sweater Weather Tag Challenge From XOXO Brosia

Exciting! This is my first tag that I've been ... well ... tagged in on Twitter! Lovely vlogger and jewelry designer, Ambrosia Malbrough (check out her blog here), challenged me to answer her "Sweater Weather" question tag via Twitter.

So here it goes!

Q U E S T I O N S 

1. Favorite candle scent?

Recently I bought this delicious candle from Marshalls. It's by Sensational Candles, called "Intrepid". It's a soy candle packed in a beauty black glass jar. I love it, it's a citrus and fruity blend.   

2. Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate?

Coffee hands down. 

3. What's the best fall memory you have?

I love fall weekends. I can enjoy sleeping in, being lazy, drinking multiple cups of coffee, and watching bridal shows all morning until I decide to get dressed. 

4. Which makeup trend do you prefer: dark lips or winged eyeliner? 

Dark lips all day! Lately black and dark purple have been my go-tos. 

5. Best fragrance for fall?

It's a tie between my Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb and Tom Ford Cafe Rose fragrance. Both are so yummy and sexy.

6. Favorite Thanksgiving food?

Don't judge me ... chitterlings. 

7. What is autumn weather like where you live?

Currently, in Atlanta it's cold enough for me to want to stay in my bed everyday and skip going outside to play. I miss Austin weather where it's 70 degrees in the winter. But right now it's in the 30's there too, so I will stay where I am at. 

8. Most worn sweater?

Funny because my mother made me throw it away. It was this vintage, cream, wool Dolce & Gabbana cardigan I found at the thrift store. I was in love with it and wore it all the time lol. My mom told me I needed to throw it away because it looked dingy and not vintage. So I did. Toast to our mothers who never steer us wrong!

9. Must-have nail polish this fall?

It's not so much the color as it is a top coat. NYC Matte Me Crazy is a matte top coat you can buy for $2 at the drugstore and it transforms my nails into a dope matte finish. Love it! 

10. Football games or jumping in leaf piles?

Football game only if I'm physically at the stadium.

11. Skinny jeans or leggings?

Ooooo tough choice. Right now because I'm all for comfort, I would have to say leggings. 

12. Combat boots or Uggs?

Definitely combat boots. I'm about to run my Steve Madden boots into the ground with the way they are looking.

13. Is pumpkin spice worth the hype?

Chai tea is worth the hype.

14. Favorite fall TV show?

Scandal and Shahs of Sunset.

15. What song really gets you into the fall spirit?

"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" :)

Thanks, this was fun Brosia! xoxo

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Dope nails of the day ;) 

Clean & classy.

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McKenzie Renae Featured on Talking With Tami

I love reading interviews. It's always been an outlet where I enjoy peering a little deeper into someone else's life and thoughts. So, I wanted to share this one on one interview I did with fellow Atlanta lifestyle blogger, Tami, from Talking With Tami. 

We talked about everything from how I got started with my beauty blog, to my favorite designers, why I decided to go natural and more. You can read the interview on her blog here. 

Thanks again for the interview Tami! 

Enjoy y'all xoxo

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NARS Loves Miami Gift Set

For Holiday 2013, NARS debuts a new limited edition gift set, based on the exciting, sensual cities top selling shades.

You can elevate any look with four of their evocative hues (Fathom, Kalahari, Daphne, and Cordura duo), and the brands iconic Orgasm blush (my fav) and Laguna Bronzing Powder. All of this is paired with the cult favorite Orgasm nail polish and lip gloss shades. 

That matte deep violet "Daphne" single shadow is to die for! 

The gift set retails at $75 and is now available to my Miami babes at Bloomingdale's Boca Raton, Nordstrom (West Palm Beach, Dadeland, Aventura Mall, Boca), and Saks Fifth Avenue Bal Harbour.

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Claim It: Winner of the Spy Discord Sunnies!

Thank you to everyone who participated in the giveaway for these Spy Discord Sunnies. For my first giveaway, it was so hard to pick a winner! The whole point of the giveaway was to spread awareness of Breast Cancer and what it personally meant to you. I thoroughly enjoyed reading all of the entries. 

And the selected winner is.....

AISHA!!! 

Please email me at [email protected] asap to claim your prize so I can send them your way!

Again, thank you love bugs, and I promise this won't be the last giveaway!

xoxo

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Dope nails of they day ;)

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New Hair: Faux Marley Loc Extensions

Hey guys! If you've been following me on Instagram then you already know that I have a new do ... and I LOVE IT. 

It all started when I saw this beautiful photo of natural hair blogger and writer, (with a beautiful spirit may I add), Alex Elle. Click the link and visit her blog, you won't regret it. I had no idea that you could install faux locs. I was always under the impression that you had to loc your hair and grow them out. I wasn't committed to that option, so I was more than thrilled to learn that I could opt for the faux option. I also wanted to protect my hair from the elements for a while during the winter season.

I found an amazing stylist by the name of Brittany, at Salon Ramsey on 10th street in Atlanta, to make this style come to life. You can also find her on Instagram (@ilovebrittanykay) to check out her work. 

Here is the 411 on the process and maintenance:

I visited the beauty supply store and purchased nine packs of Marley braiding hair. They were $5 a pack. Because my hair is colored, I wanted to follow the color pattern so my locs would blend seamlessly. I ended up getting four different colors, black, dark brown, light brown, and blonde.

She used a yarn technique to make them longer. The process took a little longer than six hours to achieve. 

Faux Marley locs can last up to two months if you take good care of them. I've had mine in for two weeks now. 

The maintenance: 

1. Morning- To take care of you scalp, spray your scalp with a mixture of water, a tbsp of apple cider vinegar (I got an organic brand from Trader Joes), and a few drops of teatree oil. Shake up the mixture in a spray bottle and spray it on your scalp everyday. This regulates the moisture and prevents flaking on your scalp. 

2. Night- I tie up my hair in a high bun and wrap my edges with a silk scarf. You want to wrap your hair because the hair is fragile and can unravel if you are too hard on it. Remember, they are faux locs. 

3. Washing- Do not wash this hair with shampoo or conditioner, it is not human hair. To wash your scalp, take a hot, wet cloth, spray the mixture on it and wipe up any buildup on your scalp. You can smooth your edges with shea butter or gel to keep it neat. I personally prefer mine a little frizzier to give it a "worn in" and natural look.  

I was sooo happy with the final look. Brittany really understood what I was asking for and I brought inspiration pictures to show her as examples. 

Here is the finished product! 

The cost of your locs will depend on the length and size you want them. For pricing and additional information, you can contact Brittany at [email protected] . Tell her I sent you her way!