Goldfish Kiss

DIY Ombre, Neon, Bandana cutoffs.

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:05:00 -1000

Ahhh summer. ‘Tis the season for cutoffs, especially of the DIY variety. I honestly make 90% of my jean shorts because 1: it puts an old unloved pair of jeans to good use, 2: you can have some fun customizing them, 3: I saves you some money, and 4: they tend to fit better.

So here is a pair of shorts that combine a few of my favorite things: tie dye, ombre, and neon.

Here we go…

Tools. A pair of old jean shorts (or a pair of old jeans you just cut into shorts). A bandana, fabric dye, neon fabric paint, a needle and thread, and a glass bowl full of water.

1: Tie dye a bandana. I did the traditional accordion fold technique: So with the Bandana lying flat, fold it in 1 inch folds (think of how you used to make paper fans in grade school).

2: Tie the ends tightly with a rubber band, then fold in half, and secure with a few more rubber bands. Place it in a medium size glass bowl full of fabric dye. If you have a squirt bottle you can also squirt the dye on. Let sit for a while ( 20 minutes or so).

3: Rinse out the bandana in a sink or outside with a hose until the water runs clear. Wring it out, then lay it flat and cut in half.

4: Back to the shorts. Cut out a triangle on the side seam of the shorts. To make them even, use the scrap piece from one leg as a stencil for the other leg. FYI, the more fabric you cut out, the more bandana will show. Show as little or as much as you want.

5: Turn the shorts inside out, then cut a piece of the bandana that will be about 1-2” larger than the area you cut out of your shorts (use the scrap piece of shorts you cut out as your guide if you need one)

6: Using a needle and thread ( or a sewing machine if you have one), do a simple stitch and sew on the bandana with a stitch that’s about a half an in h in from the edge of the denim. Repeat on the other side.

7: Turn shorts inside out. Pretty cool.

8: Using your neon fabric paint, paint on some neon accents, I went with some chevrons along the side seams and belt loops, then smeared a little around the pockets. Let dry for a little bit.

9: Now let’s make this all come together with some ombre. Using your bowl of dye you used to tie dye the bandana, dunk your shorts a little under half way in, then let the very bottom part of the shorts sit in the dye for a while (I did about 2 hours)

10: Once the neon paint is dry, rinse shorts thoroughly with water until the water runs clear. Throw them in the dryer.

Voila! Some sweet & new, totally made by you, shorts to rock all summer

….That cost under $6 to make.

This is also guest blog post for Holla!

The only thing missing on my arm, is a coconut with a straw in...

Thu, 23 May 2013 19:17:00 -1000

The only thing missing on my arm, is a coconut with a straw in it.

Alohilani // Rockabella Jewels / Jemma sands

Q&A with Sensi Graves

Wed, 22 May 2013 12:19:00 -1000

There is an under the radar line I’ve been admiring from afar for a while, called Sensi bikinis. It’s designed by Sensi Graves who happens to be a kite surfer (a sport I’m totally fascinated by), surfer, snowboarder…and all around active gal. I always had an inclination that this meant she was also really cool. So when she agreed to do a little Q & A for the blog, and I read her answers. All my inclinations were 112% confirmed. People, meet the Name (and brains) behind Sensi Bikinis, Sensi Graves.

Ok, first off, how did you get into Kite Surfing?

My dad introduced me to the sport in 2006. I was in college and had never actually heard of kiteboarding. He made a trip (mid-life crisis?) to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to learn. Over my next summer vacation he brought my three brothers and I along with him where we spent a week learning the sport. I loved it! In 2009, I started teaching kiting at REAL Watersports in North Carolina and it has absolutely changed my life. For the better!

How has kite surfing, and all the action sports you do inspired your line?

Kiting and generally being active has completely inspired my line. When I was coaching, I was literally in the water every single day, which meant being in a bikini all day long. I have always loved swimwear and grew up in and out of them, but constant use reminded me how much was actually lacking in the suits I was wearing. Most brands just didn’t hold up to the kite crashes or falls over the surf. I wanted to create something that was super functional, comfortable and still very fun to wear, because that’s what being in a bikini is all about! Having fun, expressing yourself and generally loving life outdoors and in the sun. Wearing SENSI allows me to do that.

What’s your favorite piece from your 2013 collection?

I love the Bella Bottoms in Prairie Waves print. They’re super soft and comfortable due to their seamless design but they still stay on. And they make my booty look great. My favorite top is the Sicilybecause it just stays put. It’s uber-functional and diverse.

Favorite place to go Kiting/Surfing/Snowboarding? Any dream places you want to go…

Kiting: Taiba, Brazil for it’s flat-water, laid-back fishing village and acai bowls. Surfing: Honolua Bay, Maui for the clear water and long rights! Snowboarding: Park City, Utah for it’s two resorts, loads of fluffy snow, lots of terrain and quaint downtown. My dream vacation is currently Bora Bora which has good kiting and those *gasp* over the water huts!

Ok let’s talk style. Describe your day to day look.

I have a very relaxed style. I would describe it as laid-back Californian, which is who I am. I love wearing sandals, cut-off shorts, flirty sundresses, chic sunglasses, black tees and skinny jeans. That is when I’m not in a bikini…

You don’t leave home without.

My iphone. And sunscreen. I’m loving Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint.

Best beauty/fitness advice anyone ever gave you.

Carry around a water bottle with you everywhere. This will help you actually drink it! I have a gallon jug that I’ve been toting around to help me reach by water goal. Another favorite is to mix up your workouts so that you keep yourself on your toes and don’t get bored. Trying new things is fun and rewarding. Also, a friend suggested a mirror-vacation. A period of time in which you don’t look in any mirrors and therefore don’t judge yourself. It’s tough but fulfilling and a great stress reducer.

Favorite Hometown Local restaurant/pigout spot?

Chai Lattes at Doppios. Hometown grub at 6th Street Grill. Beers at Double Mt. All in majestic Hood River, Oregon.

Any quotes you love/live by?

“No matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine”-Anonymous. My current mantra “Every negative can be seen as a positive opportunity”. I really believe in the power of positive thinking and visualization. See what you want and go get it!

Yes. Sensi rocks. Now I must go try out some Jouer Moisturizing tint, Take a mirror vacation, and then another vacation…to Taiba, and learn how to Kite…in some Sensi.

Keep up with Sensi here: Facebook // Twitter & Instagram @sensibikinis

Sensibikinis.com

Latest (and shortest) deep thoughts/late night writing. Amen…

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:16:00 -1000

Latest (and shortest) deep thoughts/late night writing. Amen…

I like to slather on some SPF Tee. Especially of the breezy,...

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:22:00 -1000

I like to slather on some SPF Tee. Especially of the breezy, smile inducing variety.

Tee by Sauce. Available aqui.

Dream Beach Bag. Boho Soul.

Sun, 19 May 2013 14:44:00 -1000

I must confess. Deep down on the inside, I’m a wanna be boho jet setter. Deep down I have an infatuation with Isabel Marant, which I can’t afford. (It’s either shoes or rent. Rent always wins.) Deep down, I am scared of looking like a handbag when I’m 60 since I love being outside so much. And deep down, ok well this is more widely known, I have an admiration for extremely large tote bags that I can throw in pretty much all belongings I’d need on a 48hour basis.

So I present to you, the latest dream beach bag that helps with all these issues: Gynormous Soul Carrier tote (Made from recycled materials. Be sure to read her about me page), UPF 50+ cowl neck/hood coverup (Cover clothing, this is brilliant), some laid back, embroidered breezy boho chic sweetness, and of course Ms. Marant’s infamous booties…all included. Enjoy.

Kelly Beth Weekender bag // soulcarrier.com

Juliet Dunn neon embroidered dress // matchesfashion.com

Cover SPF 50+ Convertible Hood/Cowl neck dress //neimanmarcus.com

Madewell perfect chambray shirt - sunrise // madewell.com

Zimmermann Wanderlust swimsuit // net-a-porter.com

Mara hoffman bikini // net-a-porter.com

Madewell-tie front bikini top //madewell.com

L Space Monique Bitsy Bottom // piperlime.com

Isabel Marant “Caleen” Cowboy boot // farfetch.com

Palm tree Smile iPhone Case // society6.com

Ipanema graphic sandals // shopbop.com

The Base Project | Kalahari Eye Cuff // swell.com

The Base Project | Deanvlei cuff // swell.com

Mathias Chaize amethyst bird charm necklace // matchesfashion.com

Shark tooth Necklace // rockabellajewels.bigcartel.com

Roxy Breezy hat // Roxy.com

Madewell Hepcat sunglasses // madewell.com

RXMANCE Sunbath tank // farfetch.com

Shorts // sarahaghili.com

NARS Multiple Copacabana // nordstrom.com

Supergoop SPF 30 spray // nordstrom.com

Butter london // sephora.com

Authentic Pestemal Fouta Turkish Cotton Beach Towel // overstock.com

5 REASONS TO VENTURE TO THE STRAPPY SIDE: 1: Less fussing and...

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:56:12 -1000

5 REASONS TO VENTURE TO THE STRAPPY SIDE:

1: Less fussing and fidgeting

2: Looks awesome under loose & breezy tanks

3: It’s like a racerback top that Edward Scissorhands got a hold of

4: They give your scapulas some love for a change

5: Killer tan lines

Bikini by L*Space // Also love this one by Mikoh.

Unplanned blessings are the habanero of life. That’s me,...

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:58:00 -1000

Unplanned blessings are the habanero of life. That’s me, checking off an item that’s been on my bucket list for quite a while. The coolest thing, (which the pic can’t show) was how loud and talkative the dolphins were. Alicia Franco (aka the dolphin whisperer), I can’t thank you enough for taking this photo. 2 Chillies Swimwear and Pearl.Love, Thank you so much for having me be a part of your shoot, so this all could fall into place.

Next time I’ll remember a mask and fins.

Photo by Alicia Franco

Mascara. Je t'aime.

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:00:00 -1000

Eyelashes. I am a bit infatuated with them. Really. In 3rd grade I was bored in class and cut them off. No clue why, but if that’s not a clear sign of undiagnosed ADD, I don’t know what is. They really weren’t concerned with it back then. Anyways, they grew back even longer. Which is quite phenomenal, and I’ve been embracing & flaunting them ever since. I don’t recommend cutting yours off to see if it the same thing happens. I’d rather let you know my favorite mascaras. Because I rarely leave the house without some sort of this substance on.

So, here are few that have been, or are currently in the lineup.

The Splurges

1: Benefit They’re Real. The newest mascara of the bunch. Layer this stuff on and you look like you’ve got some falsies glued on. The only drawback is that there isn’t a waterproof version…yet. However I’ve worn it in the water and didn’t look like I ran into someone’s fist. In fact, it only runs if you rub your eyes, hard. It’s phenomenal. Worth every penny.

2: YSL Volume Effect Faux Cils. My mom, sister and I all swear by this stuff. It thickens, lengthens, raddens, and makes you look wide awake. It is not waterproof, but ok for a beach day. Let’s face it, it’s something YSL that doesn’t cost the same as a month’s rent.

The Daily Waterproof go-to’s

1: Maybelline Volume Express Falsies : This has been my go to for a while. Layers on with out clumps, and holds up to it’s waterproof label like a champ.

2: Covergirl Lash Blast Waterproof: I asked my sister for this for Christmas a few years ago. It’s that awesome. Hannah, if you are reading this, send me some anytime.

3: Rimmell The Max Volume Flash Waterproof: I am almost through tube number 1 of this, and it has yet to run, budge, flake, or clump. Yet comes off easily without makeup remover. I’m fascinated. Good job Rimmell.

The Special stuff

1: Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips: This 2 in 1 brilliance has a separate tube of color that enhances your eye color. I did a post on it a while ago, It’s sweet, it’s fun, I need to pick up another tube. Going to try out the hot pink for hazel eyes this time. Even though I should have the green for green eyes. It’s hot pink people.

2: Maybelline Volume Express Mega Plush Mousse Mascara: Long name, I know. This has a cool little spring like brush so you can get every little lash. Plus it has a mousse formula with no waxes, so it’s very light, but doesn’t come off. Intriguing really.

There you go.

Now go on and give those lovely lashes some TLC.

Playing level 1 Tetris with some instagram pics. @goldfish_kiss...

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:55:11 -1000

Playing level 1 Tetris with some instagram pics.

@goldfish_kiss

A painting of one of the raddest pics I have seen on instagram,...

Sun, 12 May 2013 13:41:00 -1000

A painting of one of the raddest pics I have seen on instagram, and a little chevron color study action. So not one, but two watercolors for the person who calls me the minute after I post a painting, because she loves them so much, and also genetically gave me her artistic skills. Love you mom.

Bikinis can be a bit of a pain…in the neck. Literally. After a day at the beach, sometimes I...

Sat, 11 May 2013 06:30:00 -1000

Bikinis can be a bit of a pain…in the neck. Literally. After a day at the beach, sometimes I feel like I have a permanent indentation on the back of my neck. Definitely not the case with a cross back top. Those suckers are oh so comfy, and they tend to stay put rather well…and the straps sit wider on your shoulders, so it’s quite slimming. Yup, I’m a fan. So, yesterday I was messing around with top, and a light bulb went off. I realized, hey you can easily turn a normal, tie around your neck top into one of these beloved crossed ones.

Here’s How.

First off, I made this lovely video to explain. Go watch it.

If clicking over takes too much effort, here you go:

• Take the string from the right side of the bikini top that ties around your neck.

• Tie that right next to the outside bottom of the left part that covers your boob.

• Take the string from the left side of the bikini top that ties around your neck.

• Tie that right next to the outside bottom of the right part that covers your boob.

Slide the knots so they are right next to the fabric that covers your boob. You can also tuck the string in or wrap it around the tie that goes straight across your back.

Ok, if that doesn’t make sense, here is the video, embedded, so you don’t have to click over.

Who loves ya.

Bikini by Posh Pua

Having a little floral infused, wannabe Bardot moment. Muwah. Oh...

Thu, 09 May 2013 14:26:00 -1000

Having a little floral infused, wannabe Bardot moment. Muwah.

Oh so Farmer’s Market Chic Bustier Bikini by Splendid

Rx Bikini bod. What I do.

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:17:00 -1000

Ok. So, I’ve received a bunch of emails asking what exactly I do to workout, or what my workout routine looks like. I am 1: Totally flattered that you want to know, and 2: Going to outline what a typical week’s worth of working out looks like, in a somewhat coherent way, since I have workout ADD, and I tend to change things up often.

But here’s a typical week for you.

Please note: I am not a certified trainer, nor do I claim to be. I’ve been lifting since about 8th grade, and have been fortunate to work with some great professionally certified strength and conditioning coaches…and am also married to one. (Sweet perk!) If you’ve never lifted, and do not know what the exercises are below, please, pretty please take the time to find a certified person to teach you proper form. If you are looking for a good online program with instructional videos, and workouts, check out coreperformance.com. I also use their programs from time to time. They rock.

Ok, now that I got my disclaimer out of the way, here we go:

Three times a week, I lift.

It’s my 40-60 minutes of meatheadedness, that I love. I change things up every month or so, but here is a general formula.

• Foam Roll (legs, back, upper back)

• Stretch/warm up

• Core work (usually using a TRX/medicine ball/or stability ball)

• Some type of dynamic/Olympic lift 3-4 sets of 3-5 reps (Hang cleans, Single arm dumbbell Snatch, push jerk/press) or a Barbell complex.

• 3 different supersets of lifting. 3 sets each, 5-8 reps per exercise.

In general I stick to this group of exercises: Squats (back, front, single leg), RDL, Lunges, Push Press, Pull ups, Rows, bench, incline bench. And do them either with dumbbells (single or both arms), or a barbell.

Here’s an example:

Set 1: Squats with pull-ups (5 reps heavy squats, immediately go do 8 pull-ups)

Set 2: Single arm alternating dumbbell bench, Single leg RDL (6 each arm/ 6 each leg)

Set 3: Walking lunges with dumbbell press, elbows in push ups/ cable rows (5 lunges each leg, 10 push ups, 6 rows each arm)

• Stretch. Donezo.

The other two weekdays, I run.

My runs are usually a 20 minute HIIT, or I go to the beach and do a barefoot run, which tends to be more like mental therapy than a workout.

On the weekend, I play.

I’ll Surf (I do this during the week too, but it’s so fun I don’t really do it to workout), Hike, play tennis, swim, dive, go on a walk, golf…be outside.

And I’m trying to do yoga once a week, usually on a run day.

There you go. Other than the lifting part, it’s pretty simple.

Hope this inspires, or helps, or is a little glimpse into what I do to workout. I definitely work hard, and enjoy the challenge.

Have fun, take care of your body, it’s the only one you’ve got.

Top and bottoms by Roxy

If you have a minute, click over and watch this video. The last...

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:49:00 -1000

If you have a minute, click over and watch this video. The last ten seconds or so are a slap on the back of the head reality check, that I absolutely adore. It also inspired this latest hand lettering attempt. Katie Makkai, wherever you are, you rock…and are pretty inspiring.

Some sweet (low cal) iced tea.

Mon, 06 May 2013 18:07:00 -1000

Water. It’s the best thing out there for you to drink. Well, sitting behind good ‘ol H2O, in a close second, is…Tea. People all over have been drinking it in all types of forms, for ages. It has loads of health benefits, so I figured out a few ways to drink some more of it, preferably of the iced/fruit/herb infused variety.

Ala, here are some rather sweet iced teas. (Sorry, not that kind of sweet tea…keeping sugar to a minimum here.)

Honeydew Cucumber Mint Green.

In a pot, pour 4 cups of hot water over 4 bags of green tea, and 2-3 tbs honey. Let seep for 5 minutes or so, then let cool. Transfer to a pitcher with ice, and add in 1 cups chopped honeydew melon, some mint leaves, sliced cucumber. Let sit for an hour or so, so it can infuse, then drink up.

Strawberry basil lime chamomile.

In a pot, pour 4 cups of hot water over 4 bags of chamomile tea, and add in 2-3 tbs honey. Let seep for 5 minutes or so, then let cool. Transfer to a pitcher with ice, and add in 1 cup strawberries ( fresh or frozen), some fresh basil leaves, and a sliced lime. Let sit for an hour or so, so it can infuse, then chug away.

Grapefruit mango rosemary white.

In a pot, pour 4 cups of hot water over 4 bags of white tea, and add in 2-3 tbs honey. Let seep for 5 minutes or so, then let cool. Transfer to a pitcher with ice, and add in some slices of grapefruit, some fresh rosemary, and a 1/2 cup chopped mango ( fresh or frozen). Ahhhhhsomely refreshing radness.

Eat your heart out Arnold Palmer.

Enjoy.

A fun Q & A for Mint.

Sat, 04 May 2013 10:00:00 -1000

A fun Q & A for Mint.:

Thanks Jess for the sweet words and fun Interview about GFK. I’m so flattered when someone wants to know more about little ol’ me.

Cheers the DQ, its cherry dip cones, and my lactose intolerance....

Fri, 03 May 2013 08:17:25 -1000

Cheers the DQ, its cherry dip cones, and my lactose intolerance. Should’ve gotten a small.

TIKI ‘KINI TIME It’s crazy how a little bit of extra...

Thu, 02 May 2013 18:49:00 -1000

TIKI ‘KINI TIME

It’s crazy how a little bit of extra fabric and a sweet Aztec print can make everyone go berserk. Case in point: The Alana’s Closet Tiki Goddess bikini. It’s a simple triangle bikini with a gorgeous print, that’s been kicked up a few dozen notches in radness thanks to some sweet details. The sporty yet sleek adjustable racerback top, (that still has a classic triangle front) is brilliant, the bottoms (I’m guessing with Alana’s input) make your butt look amazing, the fabric feels like butter, and there’s even a little tassel action going on on the ties.

This suit rocks my world. Get one while you can.

Photos by my oh so sweet pal, Rain Umu

May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii….and I LOVE it. I made this...

Wed, 01 May 2013 18:06:00 -1000

May Day is Lei Day in Hawaii….and I LOVE it. I made this little beauty today, and yes, it smells heavenly. Wearing it now as I type.

Bikin by San Lorenzo // Beach bling by Long Lost Jewelry (shark), Kate Davis (Beach Bum) and Amy Grace (black pearl).