Here Comes the Sun...

Heyylooo!  I hope everyone is enjoying the heat wave that has ripped across the country.  I know that personally, I love this warm weather.  I am a cold person by nature so I love being able to throw on a cute and easy sundress or a tank and cutoffs and still be perfectly temperate.

To help ring in the summer season, my boyfriend and I celebrated Memorial Day by driving down to the beach for the day.  Now, I love the beach as much as (if not more than) the next girl; I love walking on the warm sand, running and playing in the ocean (unless its cold), and of course, the bright shining sun.  However, the sun turned out to be my worst enemy this Memorial Day.  Though my boyfriend and I dutifully applied our SPF 30 Banana Boat Sport to our pale skin before basking in the warmth, we still managed to get some of the most awful sunburns I have ever seen.

I don't mean to be all preachy and PSA-y, but I have spent the past few days in so much pain and agony that I feel obligated to warn others of the sun's dangers.  I know everyone has seen the notorious "Tan Lady" and those awful horror stories in various magazines, with headlines along the lines of "I Didn't Know that My Tan Could Kill Me" and "I Got Cancer from Going to the Beach".  I don't mean to dramatize this post in that fashion.  I just want to warn everyone about how much the sun's rays are intensified while on the sandy seashore.  I did use sunscreen, and I managed to be burnt everywhere on my body that was not covered by my swimsuit or sunglasses.  My hips are burnt to the point of swelling and blistering (so sitting down is painful) and I am currently embarrassed to be seen in public, my face is so red.  My siblings cringe in empathy whenever they see me, my mom has gotten me an arsenal of SPF 1,000,000,000,000 sunscreens (apparently Neutrogena's Dry Touch Sunblock is near invincible), and I have been limited to wearing only loose cotton dresses (which thankfully, I happen to own quite a lot of).

As a college girl, I definitely know and understand the sense of community tanning brings (whether outside or in a salon) as well as the pressures felt to develop a tan each summer and thus, be "gorgeous".  As fair as I am, I do know how much better I feel I look when I am tanned: my skin is no longer translucent, my hair looks blonder, and I look thinner and more "beachy".  I have dealt with these pressures my entire life, especially since my sister has black hair and is much more dark complexioned and naturally tans in the summer, no matter how much sunscreen she wears.  However, being so pale and having a family history of melanoma, I know how at risk I am for skin cancer.  I really do not want to develop any sort of cancer, especially if its due to my own vanity.  I definitely promote the alternatively safe faux glow movement that is sweeping the beauty culture.  I personally have never tried a faux tan (there were too many orange-skinned oompa loompas parading around my high school as a result of a overage of self-tanner), but I know and have seen many who have and they feel more confident and beautiful in the knowledge that they have been safely bronzed.  The way I see it, no amount of vanity is worth your health, or potentially, your life... you also probably don't want to end up looking like the Tan Lady.

Doesn't she look awful?

If you do happen to be badly sunburnt like I was, I have been discovering a number of wonderful home remedies over the past few days that really do help with the pain and discomfort a sunburn or sunpoisoning can bring.  First of all, aloe is essential to apply.  It helps to restore moisture deep into the skin so when the fried skin peels off, you have a healthy moisturized layer of skin underneath.  I have been using Banana Boat Aloe Aftersun Lotion, and it definitely helps to cool and moisturize the skin, as well as relieve some of the sting.  Another remedy that I have found to work quite well in conjunction with the aloe is cocoa butter.  It provides a really nice soothing relief when I apply a thick layer.  The bottle says it "heals and softens rough, dry skin" which is what sunburnt skin is.  I have been using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula with Vitamin E Body Lotion but like the aloe, I'm sure any brand will do.  Another (strange) remedy that I have found to be extraordinarily helpful was applying tea to the worst of my burns to soothe the sting.  A doctor told me to make some cool-room temperature tea, dampen some rags or old towels or pillowcases with the formula, and rest these makeshift compresses on my burns.  I made some strong tea with four different types of tea bags (I don't think the type matters) in a Gatorade bottle and poured it on some old sweatpants scraps.  The relief was instantaneous and absolutely heavenly and lasted for a few hours after I removed the compresses. My boyfriend's mother also suggested that he use Noxzema Cream on his burns and he says it felt great and definitely helped to relieve some of the pain he felt.  Other sources online also recommend applying vinegar to the burn to soothe the biting pain a burn can give; this did not work for me this time but it did another time last summer when I had a lesser burn.

All in all, the old adage of "beauty is pain" should not apply when it comes to your skin coloration.  Everyone, no matter how tan or pale or otherwise, is absolutely beautiful in their natural state.  That being said, don't be afraid of applying a little bronzer or body bronzing color or creating that faux tan.  Do what you need to do to feel beautiful without sacrificing your body and health.  You do not want to end up in the excruciating pain due to cancer treatments or looking like a lobster.  Trust me.

Love, Leaza

Do You Believe in Magic?

J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series is my absolute favorite group of books in the entire world.  I started reading them when I was only six years-old and never stopped until July 21, 2007.  I devoured each book on the day that I received it and I have read each and every one innumerable times since.  I also loved the Warner Brothers movie series (with the exception of the warped plot line of Goblet of Fire, but whatever), and even tried to audition for the part of Luna Lovegood when I was in fifth grade (I sent in an audition package and everything).  I also adore StarKid's satirical musical rendition of the stories in the YouTube sensations A Very Potter Musical and A Very Potter Sequel.  (StarKid is a fantastic group and I strongly recommend watching all of their projects...Glee's Darren Criss first came into the public eye when he wrote music for them and starred as Harry!)

I have always been fascinated by the vast myriad of creatures that Rowling incorporates into her stories.  I know that many of them stem from mythological and fantastical roots, but others are so phantasmagoric and creative that it blows my mind.  I decided that for today's post, I would create a few outfits inspired by the fantastical beasts of the wizarding world.

Thestrals

from Harry Potter Wiki

Thestrals are among my favorite magical creatures.  I loved how Luna and Harry began to bond over seeing them, for Luna is probably my favorite character.  Though thestrals appear to be grim omens of hardship and woe because of their connection with death (only those who have witnessed death can see them), they are actually quite loyal and "dead clever".  They unfortunately garner their bad reputation through their dismal and slightly creepy appearance.  They are giant black leathery and skeletal winged horses with glittery, pupil-less, white eyes.  However terrifying they appear though, they are still an excellent source of outfit inspiration.

This outfit would be perfect for going out on a summer evening.  The shimmery sequined tank is reminiscent of the thestrals blank eyes, while the trendy leather shorts bear semblance to their leathery hides.  This cute fitted blazer has an interesting sheer lace back while the strappy wedges, which are similar to the thestrals skeletal builds, also add a dose of summer flair.  This sweet heart pendant necklace has an infinity symbol carved into it; this pays homage to the beasts' connection with death and the eternal love those like Luna, Harry, and Neville have for their deceased loved ones.  Top it all off with this super cute turband from Urban Outfitters!

Pixies

from Harry Potter Wiki

Admittedly, pixies are not the most well known or important creatures in the Harry Potter series.  However, I absolutely adore their scene in Chamber of Secrets.  Lockhart's most pathetic traits are first exemplified in this scene and the havoc the mischievous pixies wreak on the poor second-years is hilarious.  Pixies live to create chaos wherever they go.  They can fly and are extraordinarily strong for their small size.  They have extremely high-pitched, cringe-inducing voices that are decipherable only to other pixies.

This outfit may seem sweet and demure at first glance; however, it is bursting with quirk and mischief.  The gorgeous blue frock appears simple from the front but the unexpected open back brings it on-trend.  The pale pink seed bead statement necklace and chandelier earrings are similar to the accent colors on the pixies' stomach, ears, eyes, and lips.  The strappy silver heels are a tribute to the creatures' magic and this fairy ring is reminiscent of another sassy magical being.

Phoenixes

from Harry Potter Wiki

Fawkes, Albus Dumbledore's pet phoenix, is arguably the most important creature in the entire series.  Not only does he save Harry from the basilisk, he also provides two feathers for wands that turn out to be the twin cores of Harry's and Voldemort's wands.  Phoenixes are majestic red and gold birds that have black eyes, a gold beak and talons, slightly glowing feathers, and a long glowing tail that is hot to the touch.  They can carry heavy loads (such as four people at a time!), have healing tears and magical songs, are immortal, and are able to disappear and then reappear elsewhere, similar to the wizard travel technique of apparition.  Phoenixes also have a special ability to regenerate every so often.  They begin to lose their feathers and wilt before bursting into flames on their burning day.  They are then reborn from the ashes and grow back to full sized birds.

This is outfit is one of my favorites as it is most true to my personal style.  This lovely watercolor maxi dress is a fashionable interpretation of the phoenix's plumage and long tail.  The gold headband and sandals highlight the dress just as the birds' beak and talons compliment its feathers.  This adorable necklace depicts an actual phoenix in flight over a pendant that includes all the colors of the phoenix's signature flame.  A set of firey bangles contrasted with a burnished silver metal cuff (that evokes imagery of the ashes from which the bird is reborn) complete the look!

Hungarian Horntail

from Harry Potter Wiki

The Hungarian Horntail is an extremely brutal breed of dragon.  Even Hagrid (who is an animal lover to a fault) notes the beast's ferocity; it is the most dangerous breed of dragon.  It is a massive dragon with black scales, bronze horns, and a spiky horn covered tail.  They are extremely fast creatures too; the Horntail that Harry contended with in Task One of the Triwizard Tournament could keep up with his top of the line, super speedy Firebolt broomstick.

This outfit is perfect for casual summer outings, or maybe even outdoor music festivals.  Channel the Horntail's scaly exterior with this trendy asymmetrical patterned skirt.  Pair it with a bronze tank to match the black and bronze color motif of the dragon.  Layer this cute studded denim vest that adds a tough edge to the carefree look.  Add to the looks edginess with studs, studs, and more studs--they are safer and trendier than the Horntail's signature spikes.  Pile on the rings and bangles and these adorable neutral colored studded gladiators with a tiny wedge for an extra lift.  Grab your studded wristlet and you'll be fashionably dragon-chic!

Do you love the Harry Potter series?  Which fantastical beast is your favorite?  Would you wear any of these outfits?  Let me know!!

Love, Leaza

The Star Spangled Man With a Plan

I will be the first person to absolutely admit that I am a complete nerd.  As much as I love hair and fashion and sports and pop-culture, I am a total geek at my very core.  For example, I really like to learn, and most classes in school truly fascinate me.  I love to read nearly all books that are written, and will devour them at an inhuman speed.  I love writing both stories and songs, and my favorite music consists of Disney songs and showtunes.  I adore history, particularly American; when I was younger, I used to memorize the presidents and presidential trivia for the fun of it.  I love Harry Potter and Star Wars and have just started reading and being intrigued by A Game of Thrones.

I also truly enjoy anything having to do with superheroes.  I have been fascinated by superheroes ever since my younger brothers got a copy of a Marvel Encyclopedia when I was about eight years old.  I "borrowed" it from them and quickly read it, along with all subsequent volumes that they received.  I would then Google search various superheroes, their connections throughout the Marvel and DC Universes, and their super interesting back stories.  I have read any and all superhero comic books that I have been able to get my hands on over the years.

The Hollywood takeover of the superhero universes is absolutely wonderful in my opinion, especially considering how much I love acting.  (One of my life goals is to have a role in one of the remakes!)  I have tried to see as many of these movies as possible.  However, I was incredibly busy last summer and did not get the chance to see Captain America: The First Avenger in theaters as I had planned.  Luckily, it was not absolutely necessary viewing prior to seeing  The Avengers this summer (a fantastic film!), but Avengers definitely piqued my interested in the Captain's Hollywood experience.  I watched the movie the following weekend and I would venture to say that after the Sam Raimi Spider-Man trilogy (the web-slinger is my favorite hero), Captain America is my favorite superhero movie to date.  I loved the combination of history and heroism and Chris Evans's Steve Rodgers was so wonderful and endearing (and a huge contrast to his egotistical, Tony Stark-esque character, Johnny Storm in Marvel's Fantastic Four movies).  I loved the 1940's fashion in the film as well; everybody wore simple pieces but looked effortlessly put-together and polished.  I was inspired to put together a few outfits inspired by the film.  Enjoy!!

Steve Rogers:

Military Fierce:

Star Spangled Man:

The First Avenger:

Love, Leaza

Flow it! Show it! 'Long as God can grow it...My hair!

I have a slightly unhealthy infatuation with hair and hairstyles.  I am biracial (my mom is white and my dad is black) so I naturally have a mane of the strangest hair you've ever seen; it is a golden blonde and curlier than can be described...my curls are curly!  Because I have such unique hair, I am always looking for new and interesting ways to style it.

Braids are my absolute favorite way to pull my hair off my face, especially during the hot summer months. They are so versatile; they work with sweats and tee shirts just as easily as they can work with fancy dresses and heels.  I actually went to a wedding this weekend and my hair was styled in a variety of braids for the car ride out-of-state, the rehearsal dinner, and the wedding itself!  The braids could be so creative and fun and were perfect for keeping my hair off my face and neck in the blazing 90 degree heat.

Wedding Fishtail Braid... inspired by Charlie's Formal Braided Bridal Shower Updo (Gossip Girl)

(Back View)

(Right View)

(Left View)

I wore my hair in this style for the wedding; it kept my hair securely back and contained so it didn't instantly explode from the dense humidity.  This style (which you can find the tutorial to by clicking on the link above) was inspired by Charlie Rhodes/Ivy Dickens's hairstyle at a bridal shower earlier this past season of Gossip Girl.  However, since my hair is quite layered and about medium length, I altered the style a bit for my purposes.  Instead of wrapping two small braids that originate at the base of my neck around my head, I made two tiny Dutch braids stemming from the parting at the crown of my head that stayed connected to my scalp for approximately an inch.  I also kept the French fishtail braid pretty structured and neat, as opposed to the purposely messy approach taken in the original style.  To give the style some extra sweet summer flair, I added two small, inexpensive, flower clips from Forever21  that can be found here.

Rehearsal Dinner French Wraparound Fishtail Braid

My boyfriend and I at the Rehearsal dinner (Sorry for the bad quality!!)

I did not have much time after arriving at the hotel to change and prepare for the rehearsal dinner.  My flat ironed locks were expanding by the minute due to the super hot and long car ride and, being exhausted, I was not in the mood to re-flat iron my uncooperative hair.  At the very last minute, I styled in in a side wraparound fishtail braid, that began at the part on the top of my head, continued to wrap around next to my left ear to the nape of my neck, at which point I just fishtail braided it to the end.  I loved this look because, not only did it keep me cool in the sweltering church, but I love the interest a fishtail brings to a look; its unique shape is so much more exciting and carefree looking than a regular three-strand braid.

Though I create many of my own braids and style shapes, I am also quite influenced by Pinterest photos and hair tutorial videos on YouTube.  My favorite channel to watch for new and unique braids (and hairstyles in general)  is Kayley of LetsMakeItUp1.  She comes out with two new hairstyles per week and I adore nearly all of them.  Linked below are some of my favorite tutorials:

• Blair Waldorf Braided Bun
• Cute Boho Braid
• Spencer's Braids on Pretty Little Liars
• Blake Lively's Hair from The Green Lantern Premiere

I hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend!  Stay cool and have fun :)

Happy Wedding!

Love, Leaza

Musical Musings: Why should we try to be our best when we can just get by and still gain?

I hope everyone is enjoying the incredible summer weather!  I know I sure am.  Sunshine, warmth, cutoffs, and sunglasses are life's simple little bits of happiness in my opinion.  I can't wait to go to the pool and beach and enjoy the cool water and the carefree vibe that summer brings :)

Okay, so some of you may be wondering where the name Cages and Wings? came from.  It is a line from one of my all-time favorite songs, "Louder than Words", from the incredible musical Tick, Tick...Boom!.  Jonathan Larson (the Pulitzer Prize winning creator and composer of Rent) wrote this musical originally as an autobiographical rock monologue that he performed in New York in the early 1990s.  After the success of Rent (and his tragic death the day before Rent's opening night), a playwright named David Auburn revised and altered Tick, Tick...Boom! and turned it into a three actor show.  It opened off-Broadway in 2001 with the incredible Raul Esparza as Jon, Jerry Dixon as Michael, and the inspiring Amy Spanger as Susan.  The show still followed Jonathan Larson's life, passions, and ideals through the perspective of the main character, Jon.  The script is moving, the songs are fantastic and insightful, and the subtle (and unsubtle) homage paid to Larson's idol, Stephen Sonheim, is quite endearing.

Cages or Wings? stems from the chorus of "Louder than Words" that goes: 

"Cages or wings?

Which do you prefer?

Ask the birds.

Fear or love, baby?

Don't say the answer.

Actions speak louder than words."

I think that this chorus is so incredibly powerful.  It talks about the courage it takes sometimes to do what you love and what is important to you, though it may be easy to just do nothing and suffer through life unfulfilled. 

I also think that the last titular line is important; saying who you want to be and what you want to do and what you wish is so much different than actually going through with it.  My dad reminds me of this all of the time actually.  When I was a little girl and decided that I wanted to be an actress/singer/dancer (just like Shirley Temple), my parents let me take voice lessons.  I loved to sing but I hated all of the boring exercises and vocalises and practicing that went into it.  My parents eventually made me stop taking voice lessons for a few years because I wasn't practicing, and thus progressing at a snail's pace.  That was the (albeit harsh) wake-up call I needed to realize that if I wanted to do even high school theatre successfully, let alone as my career, I have to work...and work I did.  I am now a Bachelor of Music major with a concentration in Musical Theatre and I have to keep working daily to continue to improve and be my best :)

So, in a novel, this beautiful song (which you can listen to here) is the inspiration for my blog's title.  If you love beautiful music, Rent, and inspiration, I would definitely recommend listening to the entire show.  My favorite songs include the touching "Why", the very famous "Come to Your Senses", the super catchy  "30/90", and the celebratory "No More".  Enjoy!

Love, Leaza

Hey, Mr. Arnstein, here I am!!!

Why, hello there!!  Welcome to my first post on Cages or Wings?, the blog for the dreamer in everyone.  Being an avid blog reader, I have wanted to start my own for months, but I had no idea where to begin.  I have such a wide variety of interests that I had no clue what I would write about.  Luckily, my friend Kaitlyn (kaitlynsoucy.blogspot.com) helped me to realize that I make the rules; I can write about absolutely anything I want!  So, for a lovely melting pot of music, fashion, hairstyles, superheroes, history, books, life, love, and general inspirations, be sure to check back here!

Love, Leaza