What's Hot!

Where in the world did July disappear to? No, seriously. I blinked and it was over. Maybe that's because the month was filled with so many memorable experiences that it just flew by. July's Fab 5 is all about discoveries, so let's hop to it.

1. Exploring- My mom and I decided to take a trip to San Francisco a few weeks ago. We saw the city from the top of a tour bus like true out-of-towners. We stopped at the Golden Gate Bridge and walked halfway across. I don't think Mom was up for the entire 3 miles to and fro. I was awesome to experience San Fran like that with family.

2. Eating- So while Mom and I were in SF, I was determined to eat really good food. I had a long list of spots I wanted to dine at, but of course my belly wasn't big enough to take them all in. Part of the tourist experience in San Fran meant standing in line for 2 hours to get food at Mama's on Washington Square. Yeah, I can't believe we did it. I ordered the Swedish French Toast with seasonal berries. After waiting so long to eat, you know I was starving...so of course, I finished my plate. It was well worth the wait.

3. Growing- Earlier in the month I had the pleasure of working on a short film sponsored by Levis and AFI. The premise of the project has to do with sustainibility. We shot in various locations around LA including a rooftop garden in Skid Row, a community garden in Silver Lake, and a chicken coop in a South LA. Working on the film made me realize how much I miss getting dirty and cultivating something that helps me stay alive. We all need to get back to that...the basics.

4. Friending- Sometimes we take the people in our lives for granted. You know that they love you and they'll be there when you need them, but you've got to make the time to really nurture those relationships. My favorite things about July were the moments I got to spend with my friends and making new ones too. The people you surround yourself with may not be the famiyl you're born into, but they are the family you create. Cherish them.

5. Rediscovering- I've used so much of my spare time getting to know me again and getting to know my life as it is. At one point, things were very different and know they've changed. And I'm cool with that. Life is not stagnant. It is a journey that takes you on different roads with turns, sharp corners, and sometimes dead ends. When you feel yourself getting lost in the traffic of everyday, get out of your routine and rediscover yourself.

That's all folks! I'm looking forward to whatever the next month holds. Be good to yourselves.

Wherever I Go... (Video)

If you've been living under a rock the past few months, then you may not know that I'm in a commercial for Jeep. When I auditioned for the spot, I kept hoping and praying I'd actually book it. Not just because I like to work, but also because Jeep is a brand very dear to my heart.

Although the commercial was shot in several locations including New York and Nevada, my scene was filmed in northern California. It was a rainy day, and I was afraid my part would be cut due to the weather. After hours and hours, the drizzle began to clear. With the help of big lights and Hollywood magic, we were finally able to get me in front of the camera. In between takes, I chatted with the client about making sure the spot looked iconic and realistic. I said " Oh this is authentic. I actually drive a Wrangler, and I love it!"

Here's a little video of me discussing my appreciation for being part of the Jeep family.


When you compare the actual commercial to my video, you'll see that I'm wearing the same outfit. That's because I'm sporting my own clothes in the commercial too. Talk about keeping it real.

It's so awesome to be able to represent for a brand I believe in. Batting for the home team and hitting a home run! I know that other projects will come up, but this one means the world to me. Thanks for the opportunity, Jeep. I heart you!

Vacation Like A Model

Salvatore Ferragamo Spring 2012

St. Tropez or the French Riviera? I think I'll go to my summer home in The Hamptons. If only we all had the means to vacation like a supermodel. I've got friends that really live it up when they go on holiday. Their vacation photos look like an Elle editorial. And they did it all without breaking the bank. The truth is, you can do it too. You just need to know how to play your cards right.

The first rule of vacationing like a model is making sure you travel in good company. Your friends should have great energy and style. It doesn't matter if they are guys or gals, as long as they add to the atmosphere. Surrounding yourself with cool people means that no matter where you are, you're having a fun time.

The next rule is make sure you pack light, but smart. Please don't bring your entire collection of stilettos if you're taking a cross-country road trip. I say pack two bikinis, a simple but chic dress, one blazer or jacket for chilly nights, an assortment of tops, some cutoffs and jeans, sandals of course, and one killer pair of shoes. Don't forget sunglasses, a hat, and some statement jewelry. All of this should fit into one overnight bag or jet set perfect carry-on.

Louis Vuitton Cruise 2012

Next step, pick a destination that you can afford but still live like a queen. You may have to book a room at an inexpensive place, and that's ok. This just means you have more money to eat well and play hard. Here's a trick I picked up from my girls: find the posh hotel nearby and crash it. Say your spot doesn't have the amenities you want, well that swanky place down the street probably does. No one will question you if you look and act like you belong there. Who knows, sipping cocktails around the pool at the Four Seasons could lead to yacht party later.

Finally, enjoy yourself like it's the last trip you'll ever take. Do the tourist thing and see as much as you can if you're in a city you've never visited before. Try out the local cuisine even if it looks funny. On a recent trip to San Francisco, I actually ate squid with the ink still included. It was an adventure, and one that I'll never forget. Oh, and take lots of lots of pictures of your holiday. You and your pals will be able to look back and remember those awesome moments forever. Enjoy your summer... YOLO!

Chime in: How do you enjoy your vacation while still on a budget?

Crushing On: Sequin Collar Shirt

Cool summer breeze meets hot summer night. If you aren't sweating sheer and chiffon this season, something is seriously wrong with you. This top is so necessary. You better pop that collar!

I am literally buying this beauty while I blog about it. Not even joking. This sleeveless turquoise number is on super sale. And as I'm clicking to purchase.... SURPRISE! An extra 10% off. With shipping and all that extra stuff, I'm still paying way less than the original price. Get on it!

CLICK HERE TO SHOP

My Style: Channeling Orange

Working at the pyramid- Sheer Orange blouse: Forever 21 (similar), High waisted striped shorts: Urban Outfitters (similar), Earrings and Sandals: Melody Ehsani
Just like everyone else under the sun, I've been playing that new Frank Ocean like crazy. This dude's music is phenomenal. It's got me singing, nodding my head, and dancing like nobody's business. So it's only fitting that Frank Ocean's album is the inspiration for this look. "She took me high, then she took me home." Just call me Pilot Jones.

I just fell in love with the color orange last year. It comes in so many different shades, but I prefer the ones that have more red than yellow. Warm, deep, but still vibrant.

I've got my eye on the prize with these Egyptian-inspired earrings by my girl Melody Ehsani. All of her jewelry definitely makes a statement. I get tons of compliments whenever I wear these darlings.

Just like Channel Orange, this outfit makes me feel like I should be walking amongst the pharaohs. The sheer blouse gives just a peek of my skin hiding underneath. The shorts and platform sandals... dare I say "The Mile High Club". You gotta love it!

Set the cheetahs on the loose.