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Weekend Girls Trip Featuring the Fairmont Dallas

This past weekend myself, Kristine, and Alessandra went on a girl’s trip to Dallas for StyleCon. We had the pleasure of staying at the Fairmont Dallas for the weekend which was not only convenient, as it was located right across from StyleCon, but also a luxurious and relaxing getaway for the three of us!

 

Upon arrival, we were welcomed to a table of evening snacks and a bottle of wine. The traditionally appointed rooms are spacious and decorated elegantly leaving a relaxed at-home feel. One of my favorite special touches was the personalized toiletry items!

Since we are bloggers we travel with quite a bit of accessories. To keep everything organized, here is our shoe and handbag set up! We found the best space for these items to be the living area. I will also add the closets are spacious and provided enough hangers for the three of us to hang all of our clothing!

We stayed in an adjoining King Suite and a Double Room. The bedding was plush and extremely comfortable. When I stay at a hotel usually the first night I cannot sleep well just because I am in a new place, but at the Fairmont I fell asleep almost as soon as my head hit the pillow!

In the morning it was just a short elevator ride and hallway walk to Starbucks! We loved that there was one conveniently located in the hotel, perfect for getting the morning started on the right foot!

After that, we spent the day at StyleCon, which I will chat about in a separate post. Once we arrived back at the hotel, we found lemonade and sweets in the entry to welcome us back, along with a beautiful fresh floral arrangement. After refreshments it was back to the room to change and get ready for dinner!

We met up with our fellow blogger friend Zaira at Mercat Bistro, a short 0.4 miles away from the hotel. We dined in the gazebo on steak, beet salad, shrimp ravioli, bread pudding, and creme brulee! The French inspired restaurant was beautifully decorated and elegantly appointed with printed china, linen table cloths, string lights and dark green rot-iron scrolled posts.

I would also like to add in the evening turn down service was provided by the hotel including a fresh bag of ice and a bottled water.

Since the weather was so beautiful while we were at the Fairmont Dallas, we had the opportunity to check out the amenities on the Terrace floor. Here they have lovely gardens and a sparkling pool overlooking the Dallas skyline.

If you are planning a trip to Dallas, or just want a relaxing weekend getaway, this is the place to stay! You will feel comfortable, welcome and leave well rested! Thank you Fairmont Dallas for the wonderful stay, be back soon!

Shop The Mint: The Wear Anywhere Romper

If you are looking for a great one-piece ensemble to wear to a polo match, wedding, the movies, or even brunch with the girls, this is the piece to purchase!

This lightweight romper from The Mint Julep Boutique is as elegant as it is comfortable! The flowing material flatters any figure, as the culotte crops add style and on-trend vibes. The bodice features cold shoulders and a split back detailing, all on a cool shade of blue accented with soft white stripes.

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I decided to dress it up with a blazer and sling back heels, for a more formal touch. I can easily see this romper paired with a large floppy hand and sandals as well! It is such a versatile staple piece for your spring and summer wardrobe!

My impressions

I was contacted by The Mint Julep Boutique, for a brand review, and selected this piece to try out. Their customer service is impeccable and all of their products are cute and well made. I especially love how easy it is to determine your size based off of their sizing guides and model specs. Their site is extremely user friendly and they have a dress for almost any occasion! All of their assortment is very affordable, and in my opinion, adorable!

My order arrived in a timely manner, and was packaged very neatly in identifiable mint packaging.

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This piece is available on Shop the Mint.com for $46.00 which is an excellent value for the quality of the garment. I ordered the romper in a size Medium, and am happy with the fit. I believe the Small would have fit as well but as I am 5’8”, I choose to go up a size when it comes to one piece garments for length purposes.

I hope you love this jumpsuit as much as I do! And don’t forget to sign up for Mint Julep Boutique emails, when you do you will receive $10.00 off your first order!

 

 

 

 

First Impressions: Best Hair Store

Everyday I want to do something different with my hair. From cut to color, my desires for change are never ending. And with the trends constantly changing, who’s to blame me? I love to have my hair bleached and colored different shades based on the seasons, or even when I get inspired for a change. Because of this, my hair is not as healthy as it used to be, therefore the length has been somewhat compromised. The lucky part of this is there is a solution! Clip-in extensions!

 

Some days I feel like having long hair and others, short. With extensions this is possible! I was recently contacted by Best Hair Store to review a set of their extensions. I selected an ombre style that would blend well with my current hair color. After ordering, the product arrived within a week. I was very impressed with the quality of the hair as well as the color. There was no shedding as I brushed out the hair, or even when I applied heat tools.

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The installation was quick and easy. All I needed to do was part my hair in desired locations, tease the hair at the root, and then clip in the tracks.

The clips have a secure hold and do not pull, or pinch my hair or scalp. Each extension is lightweight, so there is not heavy pulling on any areas of the scalp. I love the ease of installation and removal of this product, not to mention the excellent quality!

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This hair is most definitely worth the value and can be used to create so many exciting looks for me without further damaging or changing my natural hair!

If you are looking for some fun- current trend extensions, check out The Best Hair Store’s offerings! They have a beautiful assortment of extensions!

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Fun Ways to Dress Up White Shorts

Summertime means shorts…well it definitely does if you live in Texas! My favorite shorts to wear are these white rolled cuff denim ones from Old Navy. I just love the fit, length and stretch they offer! But the trick here is…how do you dress them up?

Shorts are super fun to wear, and the keep you cool, but lets face it, they are a casual piece of clothing. But as summer approaches, and the temperatures rise, dressing up gets very difficult and sometimes downright impossible! Which is why I wanted to brainstorm ways to create cute, wearable ensembles incorporating shorts that are chic enough you could brunch, shop, and even socialize in.

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That is how I landed on this combination! This lightweight Calvin Klein top is designed in a stretch material, that features a split neck design and roll-tab sleeves. The weight of the material allows the top to hang just right, as the print sets a cooling chic tone. To top off the look, I paired it with stacked bracelets, 50’s inspired sunnies and espadrille wedges. What takes this look from casual, to chic, is the wedges and the design of the top. Adding a modern print, 3/4 length sleeves, and a slightly dressy shoe, completely morphs the ensemble.

20170225_08523620170225_0850310So don’t be afraid to rock your favorite shorts at your next get-together! With the right pair of shoes and printed top, you can turn this said-to-be casual wardrobe piece into a chic complementary item.

Shein Shopping: The Perfect Color Block Dress for Spring

I absolutely love to get my hands on a great dress. There is something about it that gives you that “conquer-all” vibe. I am partial to purchasing “safe” neutral shades that transition, and can easily be re-styled, but ever so often, I find a piece that is bold, bright and I’ve just have to have it! That was this dress!

I selected this dress from Shein. Not only was the dress adorable, but the price was unbeatable! I just love how the mix of pastel shades blend together with the yellow back panel to create such a cute color block garment.

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The details

With a back ¾ zip closure swing silhouette, and front pockets, this dress has it all. I especially love the length of the sleeves, and the neckline. It is perfect for adding a sparkling statement bib necklace, and dainty bracelet as accessories. I would recommend a short slip be worn with this dress as it is not lined, and the back panel is slightly see through.

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My thoughts

I ordered this dress for $20.00 in a size medium, and would say it is a steal at that price! I believe the size small would also fit, but I decided to size up for the length as I am 5’8″. The construction and fabric quality is well produced, and the colors and shape of the garment online are true to what I received.

It only took about two weeks for me to get my order in from Shein and the garments were very well packaged. Each piece was placed in a separate zip bag and folded neatly.

If you are looking for a great spring dress to go to your next daytime wedding, birthday party, baby shower, or even to work, this must-have dress will fit the scene and get you noticed!

Seeing Stripes

I have always been a sucker for black and white. So naturally, I am drawn to White House Black Market. Since spring is ideal for skinny jeans and tees it is time for me to freshen up my basics! I recently purchased this striped top from my local WHBM outlet and absolutely love it! This asymmetrical folded hem makes it so unique and be beaded v-neckline gives it a chic touch.

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I styled it with Jessica Simpson skinny jeans and Cole Haan wedges for a fun day out in the sun shopping! I must say, I absolutely love the fit on this tee. It is really forgiving and comfortable with a lightweight and breathable construction.

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Have fun with your basics this season! Just because they are called basics doesn’t mean you have to look plain! Style it up, and look fabulous in your simple cotton top!

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Shop my look:

Shoes: Cole Haan black is out of stock (other colors available)

Top: White House Black Market

Jeans: Jessica Simpson

Hat: Forever 21 (similar)

Florals & Blush Tones

With spring around the corner, I have really been feeling bright florals and blush tones! This lookbook contains 3 ensembles I have been sporting lately that include pink hues, faux suede, lace, florals and perfect layering pieces making this style ideal for transitioning seasons!

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The first look is a fun floral print dress with a lace up accented neckline and swing silhouette. I have paired it with black quilted booties, a fun faux suede hat, and rose gold mirrored sunglasses. This look is perfect for a sunny day out and about!

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The second look is a light pink floral lace dress with a floral embroidered Democracy bomber jacket and burgundy wedge booties. This look is ideal for breezy days and perfect for spring! The wedges tie the look together and provide height without compromising comfort.

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Lastly this third look is just a simple mock neck lace dress paired with a tassel necklace and cork wedges. This fully lined lace overlay dress is so fun to wear! I have a feeling it will be making many appearances this upcoming season!

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Fierce Prints

Just because it’s cold outside, doesn’t mean you have to be boring with your wardrobe! I am one of those people who will find a way to work in cheetah print no matter the season, and here is one of those times!

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I must admit, this sweater is an oldie but a goodie. I purchased it from Express a few years ago and still find it to be one of my favorites this time of year. For this look, I decided to pair it with leggings, a knit pom beanie, and XOXO over-the-knee faux suede boots. To me, these boots totally make the outfit!

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I wore this ensemble out for a day shopping, and was comfortable and stylish! The fun, fierce print of the sweater makes a statement, so I don’t feel as if I’m lost in this dreary weather!

Let’s keep things fun, during the transition to spring! Just because the sky may night be a bright blue, you can surely let in some warmth with your wardrobe choices.

Featured Pieces:

My Everyday Makeup Routine

So I decided for my first cosmetic blog I would detail my everyday makeup routine. This is my go-to seasonless (face) that complements my features, minimizes my flaws, and beautifies my face in a way that looks like I have on makeup, but in a not overdone way.

So before I jump in with the “tutorial” of what makeup I wear and how I apply it, I would like to first express my “problem areas.” That way, if anyone shares a similar issue maybe my techniques can assist, or if you have any techniques that work, feel free to send them my way!

Problem areas to address:

  • Redness around nose and cheeks
  • Dark under-eye circles and slightly red upper lids
  • Subtle crows feet and eyelid wrinkling
  • Breakouts
  • Watery eyes

Lets get started!

The first thing I do when it comes to my everyday makeup routine, is I apply my concealer. My current favorite concealer is Nars. This formula is light but concentrated and buildable. It dries smooth with no sticky or cakey texture. I apply a darker reddish shade first (Honey) to cancel out my dark circles then a lighter shade (Vanilla) to cover and conceal. Without the first step I would have grey areas under my eyes where the circles are located.

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Next I apply my liquid foundation. I use Estée Lauder Double Wear liquid foundation in Bone and apply it with a beauty blender. This foundation provides all day full coverage for my skin. It covers all redness and leaves me with a smooth and even complexion.

Next, I apply bronzer to the hollows of my cheeks. I use the Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess compact 02-Medium and set with Estée Lauder Double Matte Pressed Powder in 01- Light all over my face. This leaves my skin looking natural and not shiny or overly matte. When applying my powder I start with patting it under my eyes, then move to my nose, forehead, and chin.

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Now for eyes. I start off by applying a pearlized white to my tearduct area. This particular color is from Clinique. It distracts from any darkness around my eyes and provides a more awake look. Next I apply a nude shade to the center of my lid, then I add a dark plum color to my crease and slightly over, as I have hooded lids it is necessary for me to go passed my crease for the shadow to show up.

To finish the eyes I apply waterproof liquid eyeliner and mascara. I have discovered liquid liner works best for me because with hooded lids and watery eyes…pencil usually ends up marking my crease and adding a ring under my bottom lashes from smudging. Liquid liner dries almost immediately and says in place all day. For mascara, there are a few I really like but right now I am enjoying Cargo and Clinique. I have very straight, spread apart lashes so I need a mascara that dries repetitively fast, won’t smear, and adds volume and length. These two give me the every day look I desire!

For lips, my every day is usually EOS but I also like to apply Mehr by MAC. This gives me that “your lip color but better” appearance which I really enjoy and doesn’t feather or bleed, which is very important to me.

Now to finish, I go back over one more time with my powder just to make sure everything is just right, and I’m done!

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That about wraps up the look! I am able to apply my everyday look in about 10 minutes or less and overall, am pleased with the results. I do not have a face that can hold a lot of makeup, so my goal is to accentuate my features and disguise imperfections in a natural way, and I think this routine does the job.

Thanks for reading and please comment if you have any tips or tricks you have implemented into your everyday makeup routine!

Until next time!

<3

 

Feeling Golden

When it comes to seasonal pieces, I really like to get my use out of them, and what better way to do that than by restyling! Here I will wear a dress two ways, taking it from day to night!

I picked up this 70’s inspired chiffon swiss-dot dress from Stage Stores. I absolutely love the fit and silhouette of this dress, not to mention the color! For my first look, I chose to pair this dress with a cheetah print belt, camel color boots and a small crossbody. This look is perfect for work, church, or shopping with the girls! This lightweight material flows beautifully, and is just the right amount of coverage for this season!

Now to transition this dress to night, I give the look a bit more edge, by pairing it with quilted ankle booties and a scuba skirt. The scuba skirt adds a fun and flirty touch along with the high heel of the bootie! I love how the black against the golden mustard hue really pops! This is the perfect date night ensemble, transforming this sunny daytime dress into the perfect night out look!

This really is a great way to add options to your wardrobe without collecting multiple pieces. Right now I am obsessed with this mustard shade, and since this dress offers such a flattering fit, what better way to get my use out of it this fall than by restyling it different ways?! I have noticed that each season I get really hung up on a few particular shades and buy a lot of pieces in it, only to decide on a new color the next season. Because of this, I have learned to pick and choose the pieces I really like, and get creative with styling those select pieces so that I don’t over do it on a seasonal color that will be short lived.

For accessories I kept the same jewelry to tie the looks together. A simple mixed media watch with some of my favorite Luca-Love bracelets. The gold tones complement the look impeccably!

As seen with this dress, you can easily style up one particular seasonal piece you love in your wardrobe, and give it a fresh look! I hope this short blog has inspired you to take a peek into your own closet and test out your wheel of options when it comes to restyling!

Featured pieces:

  • Dress: Stage Stores
  • Skirt: H&M
  • Boots Hautelook
  • Jewelry: Luca-Love Michael Kors