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redrhinestone
I recently found myself shopping online with Stage.com and came across this gorgeous XOXO skirt. As soon as I set eyes on it outfit pairings started flooding in my mind. I love finding pieces of clothing that inspire me. This is definitely one of those kind of pieces.
The skirts offers a back gold tone zipper closure, front welt pockets, subtle stretch fit, and 6 gold buttons. It is on the shorter side, but is the length that I like to wear my skirts, especially since it is pretty much hot here year round.
I know, purchasing a skirt that isn’t black or navy may seem scary for some. The thought of “what can I pair it with” might come to mind, but the truth is, there is a lot you can pair with a bright and bold colored skirt. For instance; florals, polka dots, and even stripes can be paired. Since the skirt is a solid color pairing is simple. If you want to wear it with pieces already in your wardrobe, a simple black or brown top will work perfectly. It is all about a balance.
For this particular pairing, with the skirt I chose a burgundy top, flats and a oriental floral print scarf. The printed scarf adds interest and ties in additional colors and textures, while the dark top balances out the look.
For a sun shining day running around town I found this ensemble comfortable, cheery, and fall ready! Look forward to seeing this skirt styled a few more ways this season as I cannot get enough of it!
Skirt XOXO Stage Stores
Top Forever 21
Shoes Forever 21
Purse Henri Bendel
Scarf H&M
As I start the transition into fall, faux suede and fringe come to mind. The downside to this is thick fabrics, layering, and the fact that it is blistering hot here in Houston. So, for this shopping outing I wanted to wear something comfortable and cool but still toss in these warmer elements to ring in the new season. Here’s what I came up with!
I have a feeling I will be pairing this lightweight fringe vest over many ensembles this season as it has such a lovely color, great length, and flattering fit. And this dress! I cannot say enough about this dress. It has a faded denim print and a lovely floral embroidered bodice, perfect for this hippie boho look! Paired together, I was ready to conquer the day.
To tie everything in, I chose a pair of comfortable platform heels with faux leather and suede elements, and accessorized with stacked bracelets, a giant deer ring, and horn necklace which added some sparkle and shine.
This look is going to be wonderful for early fall as it is short, and the materials are lightweight but give off the appearance of thicker and warmer fabrics. Since our temperatures here aren’t leaving the 90’s any time soon I can welcome fall in style with ensembles like this without melting!
Until next time…peace, love and keep cool out there!
<3
Dress, vest shoes: Stage Stores
Handbag: Henri Bendel
Accessories: Henri Bendel Baublebar Sam Moon
I must say, fall is my favorite season. And I’m not just saying that because I was born in October. Fall is my favorite because the temperature starts to cool, the leaves change color and layering and boots begin! My favorite color palette for fall would have to be deep green, burgundy, navy, and cognac. Then somehow add to plaid! Fall is fun for mixing shades together with florals, plaids and faux leathers! Here I will be sharing a few of my favorite looks for early fall, so stay tuned for another look book later in the season where i’ll share my cooler weather looks for later in the season.
Enjoy! <3
This look is definitely one of my favorites for “everyday”.It is fun, casual, comfortable, and full of color. For me, this ensemble will work best for running errands, and casual Friday at work. Plaid is the ultimate fall print and was a must to incorporate into my fall look book.
- Plaid Top & Boots: Stage Stores
- Tank & Sunglasses: Old Navy
- Handbag: Nordstrom
- Necklace: Cut Branch Jewelry
This would have to be my favorite look! This dress has such a lovely floral print I cannot get enough! I chose to style it with a skinny belt to cinch the waist, and add tall boots and a hat to finish the look. This look is perfect for daytime events, or brunch with the girls. I just love how all of the warm tones pair together so nicely!
- Dress & Boots: Stage Stores
- Purse: Coach
- Bracelets: Luca Love
- Hat: Forever 21
My favorite “wear-to-work” look would have to be this one! This dress is as adorable as it is comfy! I decided to pair it with a plaid scarf and ankle booties to spice it up! This dress is totally transitional and can be worn and accessorized many different ways. I definitely think it is a fall staple piece everyone should get!
- Dress: Stage Stores
- Scarf: Charlotte Russe
- Booties: Hautelook
For on-the-go this is by far my favorite. On the weekends I love to layer and keep my hands free so this convertible bag is perfect! For this look,I decided to wear a light chiffon top paired with a faux leather jacket for added warmth if needed. Here in Texas there isn’t a real need for think layering, but a nice stylish faux leather jacket will never steer you wrong. And the reason I pair it with a light top is to avoid bulk and heat.
- Top & Boots: Stage Stores
- Scarf: Charlotte Russe
- Jeans: Express
- Jacket: Aeropostle
- Bag: Nordstrom
And finally for my more “risk-taking” piece. I always like to have fun and experiment with my ensemble choices and came up with this look. I love a classic turtle neck and decided to pair this one with a dusty rose mini skirt. Since I am so extremely pale I decided it best to pair the look with tights and tall black boots. This keeps the look consistent and sleek. To top it off I added one of my favorite cool weather hats which adds a fun touch of personality and pizzazz! Its a little daring, but definitely a look I plan on rocking this season.
- Skirt: Forever 21
- Hat: Marshalls
- Necklace: Sam Moon
- Boots: Stein Mart
- Turtleneck: Target
Out of the fall color line up I chose to focus on the blue and pink tones. This is because of my recent hair color change, as well as my fair skin tone. Choosing flattering colors is just as important as the fit. Sometimes what is “in” may not be what looks best on you therefore I like to find the best of both worlds by selecting shades that I know work for me and selecting pieces in fits that flatter my figure. If I want to incorporate a color that may not be “your” color, do so with an accessory or small detail joined with a color that does work, and will compliment the shade. This is a trick I live by.
I hope you enjoyed my fall looks and thank you for taking the time to check them out! Please stay tuned for my next look book coming soon with late fall looks! Hopefully it will get chilly enough here for more layering and sherpas!!! Fingers crossed!
<3
Since I can remember I have always been a planner. I like to set goals for myself and a timeline to reach them in. The problem with goals is, if you hit a bump in the road or wander off track, it can get discouraging.
This discouragement can lead to stress, anxiety, sadness and ultimately the abortion of your goal. For myself, to give up on a goal, or dream is devastating. This really takes a toll on me as a person and is not a way I like to feel. I start to question my strengths, abilities and self worth “maybe I’m not as great as I thought”. Because of this, when I am planning for the future and setting my goals, I have learned to set myself up with an ambitious but achievable timeline, and a clear path for success.
1. I write everything out like a map so that I can clearly visualize my goal and what it will take to achieve it.
2. Keep some positive affirmations handy to banish those negative and discouraging thoughts. I have found the best place to leave these encouraging words is in my task journal so that I can always flip to it an recharge my brain with positive juices!
3. When setting up my goals I provide myself with wiggle room. Let’s say my goal is to save $500.00 in a month. I will give myself a “low” goal to meet of $450.00 and a high goal of $550.00. That way, I have the opportunity to surpass my goal but do not have to feel defeated if I come up a bit short.
Our busy lives are constantly moving and our “planned-out” day can turn upside down in a moments notice. Doctors appointments, air conditioning goes out, vet visits, parties, dates, etc. All sorts of unscheduled last minute things can pop up that we didn’t plan for, and that’s okay. That is life, and you cannot plan out every moment. For someone such as myself, this is extremely difficult. I like to know what I am doing, where I will be, what I need to wear, how the weather is, how much money it will cost, the works! But the truth is I cannot always know, and I cannot always be prepared and need to be okay with that. Luckily I am learning as I go and setting myself up for success is getting easier and easier.
4. Finally, be okay with not meeting your goal the first time around. If I set a goal for myself and fall short of even my “low” goal I won’t give up, but re-evaluate my strategy. This way when I try again the next month, I will have the understanding of my mistakes from the first attempt and set myself up for success the next.
The key to success is understanding yourself. What drives you, and what keeps you motivated? This is what will keep you on track to meet your goals. For me, it is reminders and updates. I like to keep track of my progress to be able to see where I started, and where I am today. Whatever works for you is what is right for you. The great thing is there isn’t a wrong way to plan for your future. It is all up to you! Now get out there and start setting yourself up for success!
<3
Featured items:
- Spiral: Marshalls
- Mug: Hobby Lobby
- Artwork: Hobby Lobby
I recently decided to try something new and have my hair colored red. After a consultation with my stylist I decided on a rose gold color melt to blonde and have loved the results! In case anyone was wondering, before I went red, my hair was had 2 inches of new growth and blonde balayage highlights.
I love to change the color of my hair pretty frequently. It’s fun, but can be quite damaging if done too often and incorrectly. Luckily I have a wonderful stylist who takes care of my hair to insure it does not loose its integrity. The reason why I thought it would be great to post my regimen for red color is because the dye fades extremely quickly. The regimen I follow helps to keep my locks red and vibrant as in between treatments as well as healthy. So let’s get started!
First my regimen consists of Joico Color Infuse Red Shampoo and Conditioner. The shampoo is a dark pigmented red, so to get it to your desired color for wash, it is best to add shampoo or a conditioner to lighten the color. I mix in a coconut shampoo until the the color changes to a mauve pink. I apply the shampoo to my roots and let it sit for a minute or two then pull it through the rest of my hair before rinsing.
Then twice a week I use the conditioner, which is a dark red shade with a thick consistency. I apply argan conditioner to lighten the shade of this as well before applying all over my hair.
After washing, I apply R&B Hair Moisturizer by Lush to damp hair starting at the roots then comb through and blow dry. After this step I’m ready for bed! I would also like to add that I sleep on a satin pillowcase as it is great for my hair and skin. In the morning I either straighten or curl my hair. The reason I wait to style is to reduce the amount of heat I apply to my hair at once.
Since my hair had to be bleached before it was able to achieve this brilliant red shade it can get dry, so it is best not to wash everyday. In between washes I like to use Batiste to keep my hair fresh and looking its best.
These are my tips for red hair. So far they have really worked well for me. If you have color treated red hair and have some tips and tricks for keeping it looking vibrant longer, please let me know! I love trying out new techniques and products for hair!
Until next time!
I recently took a road trip to Dallas to get my hair done, and spend a short weekend away with my mom. I don’t get to spend much quality time with just her anymore and was really looking forward to it.
Luckily Dallas is just under 4 hours from Houston so a road trip is totally do-able! Our first stop was to the salon where I had my locks transformed from honey blonde balayage to a rose gold melt! This process takes some time….(I’m not going to lie) and by some time, I mean about 2.5 hours but my stylist was prepared with Netflix and “Friends” so we were set and before I knew it, I was all done! I had decided on wearing and blue floral dress, knowing I love how red hair and blue look and to my excitement it didn’t disappoint.
This particular dress is from Modcloth. As soon as I saw it on their site, I immediately added it to my cart. There was just something about it. To me, it screamed summer! It is totally comfortable and the print is lively and cool. I was a little concerned with the fit when ordering as it looked short and I am tall but it fit perfectly paired with flats.
Our next stop was to Sam Moon to check out accessories and shoes. I had never been to a Sam Moon before so as soon as I stepped inside I was like a kid in a candy store! Sooo many glittering accessories offered at amazing prices! I had to reign myself in and was a good girl picking up 8 pieces, only spending around 45 dollars. Next stop was Daiso, a Japanese 1.50 store! This is one of my favorite places to pick up facial masks, candy, and stationary. I of course loaded up as we do not have a Daiso in Houston; Dallas is the closest location so when I go, I stock up!!
After that it was time to head to the hotel. We were staying at the Hilton Anatole. I have stayed there before but not since the on site water park had opened and all I can say is wow! The grounds are breathtaking and the artwork is magnificent, but to offer an on site water park with twisting slides and a lazy river?! You cannot get any better! Once we got settled in there was no reason to go anywhere else for the night. There is plenty of entertainment and restaurant accommodations in-house! We walked the grounds and appreciated the art, spotted a rabbit snacking on some grass, and visited the water park-all before sunset. After, we stopped for dinner at Media and had an amazing chicken chopped salad.
For the next day I chose to keep things casual with white shorts and a 3/4 length sleeve mint top. When I go on weekend trips I like to pack light so I coordinate my ensembles to easily pair with one pair of shoes. In this instance I picked a simple pair of laser cut nude flats.
I would say this trip was a success. I was able to change up my look, spend some quality time with my mom, have a bit of retail therapy and most importantly relax. It is always nice for a change of scenery, and to shake things up from your regular routine. Taking some time for yourself isn’t selfish it is healthy and rejuvenating. For me, it reminds me of what I am thankful for and clears my mind of all of the negatives so that I can come back strong, recharged and clear minded. Ready to conquer the road ahead. So remember to take some time for yourself this upcoming month whether it be a weekend away, a day shopping, or even an hour nap- just something for yourself. Trust me, you won’t regret it. 🙂
As summer draws to a close, and fall approaches I felt the need to grasp the last bit of summer brights I could. There is something about a great maxi dress that makes you feel unstoppable! What made this particular one catch my eye was the brilliant citron color mixed with grey. An off color combo that definitely works!! As soon as I saw it I knew it was for me.
Since the straps on this dress are extremely thin, and cross in the back, I decided to pair it with my favorite denim vest from Express. (#1 Because it adds texture and a nice casual vibe to the look. #2 Because I hate to wear strapless bras all day! They are just so uncomfortable!) Anyway, I paired the look with a mixed print sandal I got from Target and topped it off with a grey Michael Kors handbag.
This look was comfortable, bright and screamed summer!
My next call for brights was fulfilled with this vibrant neon yellow dress from Express. It comes in a flattering fit and flare design and has a unique mesh overlay for added interest and dimension. I paired this dress with the same target sandals, a black and white butterfly print scarf from Express, and my favorite back Kate Spade convertible bag.
Just because the season is almost over doesn’t mean you have to transition your wardrobe just quite yet! Summer is still here for a few more weeks, so enjoy it! I’m sure anyone who is still of school age would agree!
Until next time!
When the weather starts to heat up I know my alabaster skin no longer becomes acceptable. I am the palest person I know, so when everyone starts to get sunkissed and tan I look like an ill zombie. Luckily over the years I have discovered a few wonderful products to keep my skin healthy and looking season appropriate. These products will be sure to keep your pale skin looking its best no matter what the season!
Let me first start off by saying I do not use tanning beds. Yes, I know they are an option but with skin cancer running in my family that is just not an option for me. I also do not find premature wrinkles or leathering of the skin cute. In saying that, if tanning works for you, go for it! I just don’t have enough “tanning juice” in my skin to make it worth the money, time, or future damage.
What I have discovered is that bottled tan CAN look natural and amazing on pale skin. After trying out spray tans and multiple fake bakes Loreal Sublime Bronze Luminous Bronzer is what works best for me. To apply it, I use the Saint Tropez application mitt. It gives me the perfect streak-free application! Before I purchased that mitt I was a hot mess once the product dried so I highly recommend a mitt for application of ANY self-tanning lotion. The only negative I have for this product is the smell. Like most fake tanning lotions, they have an odor. This one is not horrible, but if you sweat it sort of starts to smell like a dirty mop. :/
For an outer anytime glow I use the Lush Black Stockings and Shimmy Shimmy for a light touch of color and a beautiful shimmering sparkle.
To keep my skin healthy and moisturized, I use the Body Shop Cocoa Butter Body Butter . Though this is not tanning related the scent reminds me of summer and it keeps my skin looking its best.
For summer fragrance my number one choice is Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess. It is a warm yet sweet scent perfect for any maxi dress or day at the beach. I also love Vanillary from Lush. The fragrance is perfect for any occasion and stays all day!
For my face, the cosmetic products I reach for most to achieve a beach babe look are the Urban Decay Naked Illuminated in Luminous, and Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Bronzer. These two are the perfect face products to create a natural, healthy looking glow. I would also like to add that though both of these products are a bit on the pricier side (Estee Lauder at $39.00 and Urban Decay at $30.00), they are well worth the investment! You actually receive a generous amount of product in both that will last you for quite some time.
Aside from these products I always carry around a chapstick and sunglasses to product my eyes and lips from the harsh rays of the sun. I feel everyone should protect their skin but as an extremely pale person, I feel it is even more imperative to do so, as it gets damaged so easily.
With these products you can celebrate summer year round without looking ridiculous or harming your skin. And the best part is, when you want to go back to your normal self, it comes right off!
Until next time <3
Lately I have definitely been on a dress kick. It all started what I noticed I had gained a little weight. My more form fitting clothing did not look the way I was comfortable with it looking so I decided dresses were my best bet for looking my best and discreetly covering up those extra pounds. In the process I started to focus on a more healthy lifestyle by getting back on track with regular exercise and becoming for conscious of the foods I was consuming. By doing so, I ended up dropping nearly 9 pounds and lost that run down tired feeling, but noticed I still was really digging dresses. I started purchasing more and more and now they are my everyday look at work, not because I felt I had to wear them ,but because I felt great in them!
There is something about how one clothing item can be your whole outfit, and how you decide to accessorize it, determines it’s level of dressiness. I personally love to casualize a dress and make it everyday wearable as seen in the images I have attached. This olive medallion burnout style dress could easily be paired with heels and a sparkling statement necklace or a tailored leather jacket for some edge but instead, I paired it with faux suede fringe booties and an owl origami necklace for a touch of added texture and shine. This look could be worn to lunch, the mall or school. I personally love it for work or running errands. The dress style is so comfortable for all day wear and involves no tugging or re-adjusting. I love to feel confident and comfortable in my clothing, no matter the size. And I realized that I wasn’t feeling confident because I was hiding myself in dresses, I was feeling confident because I like how dresses look on and how transitional they are.
Dresses were there when I needed them, and now I wear them because I simply love them! confidence is key when I step into a garment. If I’m not feeling it I wont wear it and the great this about dresses is I’m happy in them no matter the size.
Until next time,
Before I lived in downtown Houston I lived in a small suburban town about 25 minutes away. I would only come into the city for special events such as concerts or musicals. The idea of living in the city seemed so bold, glamorous, and out of reach. As I got older, I grew more curious and ventured more often downtown and began to learn my way around. I think I had a lot of misconceptions of the city, one of which was the safety. Its really all up to learning your way around. There are plenty of areas that are more than safe and wonderful to live an visit within the city.
I think that is probably one of the most stressful and foreign things you have to adjust to transitioning from suburban to urban life is that you are sharing your “backyard” with… a whole lot of people. In a suburban neighborhood, the day-to-day traffic usually consists of the people living there, in a city there are; lost tourists, business workers Monday thru Friday, other city dwellers, all buzzing around so paying attention is imperative. The traffic running through your “neighborhood” fluctuates all the time. Also, there are many events that occur which require closing off of main streets, so it is always best to have alternate routes ready!
As for transportation, I still rely on my personal vehicle the majority of the time. Houston is very spread out so you cannot walk everywhere in the city, and although public transportation has increased, it isn’t always the most time efficient, or convenient. The metro rail is great for most short distances from the medical center to midtown, or downtown, and catching an Uber is pretty easy, but if you have a car you will more than likely be using it.
I personally love the city life. There are many places you can visit within walking distance and there is almost always a sporting event to see. I can say I am no longer intimidated by the alternate direction streets and tall buildings, I can call them home. I have also learned to not be afraid of elevators. Living in a high rise requires multiple daily rides in an elevator and yes, after living in a high rise for almost 4 years getting stuck in once was bound to occur. (Thankfully it was not for very long, and honestly is not that scary of an experience.)
Next, get ready for unexpected and random noise interruptions all of the time. Cars buzzing and screeching, horns honking, planes humming, workers drilling, police, firetrucks, and ambulances whaling are all sounds you are bond to hear on a daily basis. For me, this is not a bother. I like to have noise in my life. I require noise to sleep, and some sort of lighting, so when I lived in the suburbs I always had my television on. I guess I just needed the city to sleep because now I don’t require that. There is light from the buildings and noise from the streets to keep me content.
I would honestly say that city life is not for everyone. Privacy does not exist outside of your dwelling and you must learn to reduce the size of your personal space, but for the right person it can be amazing. You have the opportunity to discover what makes your city so wonderful and can appreciate all it has to offer.
I am so blessed to have the opportunity to live inside of the city. It has helped me with navigation, conquering my anxieties over elevators, learning how to share space with others, and understanding the lifeblood of the city and all it has to provide.
Until next time <3