Bejeweled

How cute are these necklaces from Molly Suzanne Jewelry?  Fabulous looking jewelry at an affordable price--you've got me sold.  The sale prices will drop your jaw, consider yourself warned and have a little fun browsing this fun site!

Pictured above are a few of my favorites, which one is your favorite?  Hard to choose.  

MAGGIE NECKLACE - WHITE $25

THE TAYLOR NECKLACE $30

BRIGHT LIGHTS NECKLACE - YELLOW $21

Zara

Seattlites prepare for impact: Zara is to open at Westlake Center by the end of the year, and hopefully before the holiday season! Leave it to SeattleMet to update us with the latest and greatest, the news has been confirmed--Zara will open before the end of the year and the store will include fashions for men, women and children. Zara's styles are chic, contemporary, fashionable and affordable. Think: a few levels up from H&M (described as a "Spanish fast-fashion line").

On top of their generally affordable prices, they also have revolving sales (semi-annuals, end of season, etc.) that make for some outrageous deals. Wait, have I mentioned they have e-commerce opps on their website? Oh dear heavens.  So, shopping in your pajamas, on your couch, in your living room, is also very acceptable.  So do it!

In anticipation of the grand store opening, I have been doing some shameless (slightly obsessive) browsing of the Zara website.  I can't get over their selection of fun and funky blazers and trousers--not to mention their handbags.  Wowzers.  

Here's a few of my favorites:

1. Polka dot blouse

2. Printed trouser

3. Basic wide-striped sweater

4. Statement pinstripe blazer

5. Tribal print Fall jacket

H&M Roll Call

Find me on Pinterest

Fall is at our back door (dear God, say it isn't so!) and these new H&M pieces will help you transition from summer to fall with ease.  Plus, who can possibly say no to screen-printed kitties on a tank top?  What do you think of this summer to fall line-up?  I think it's pretty fab!  

The list:
1. A funky, statement blazer
2. Some vintage inspired sunnies
3. Rock-solid studs
4. Sexy, metallic sandals
5. A tank packing some major sass
6. A gold, under-stated bracelet
7. A utilitarian and roomy bag
8. Distressed boyfriend blue jeans

What's better?  All items shown above are less than $40 dollars a piece!  Visit an H&M store location near you to pick up these super cute essentials online with H&M's new e-commerce capabilities!  Amazing...

Sensible Summer Reading

Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and an ice cold drink!

1.  The Secret Life of Bees;  Sue Monk Kidd from $5 on Amazon.com

2.  The Glass Castle; Jeannette Walls from $10 on Amazon.com

3.  The Paris Wife; Paula McLain from $9 on Amazon.com

4.  Half Broke Horses; Jeannette Walls from $13 on Amazon.com

5.  The Great Gatsby; F. Scott Fitzgerald from $7 on Amazon.com

A Little Slice of Heaven

Question: Definition of heaven on Earth?  

Answer: J.Crew Factory online

Below is a good representation of what I'm going ga-ga over at the moment. Granted, space is limited so these are just a few of my favorites.

Also, why just browse when you can get 30% off using the code "SPREE" at checkout.  Hurry fast!  Promo ends soon.

1.  FACTORY RIPSTOP UTILITY JACKET; $98
2. STRAIGHT AND NARROW JEAN; $74.50
3. FACTORY NEON CRYSTAL FAN NECKLACE; $44.50
4. FACTORY PRINTED TEAGAN RUFFLE POPOVER; $64.50
5. FACTORY PRINTED PHONE CASE FOR IPHONE 5; $14.50
6. FACTORY VERO CLUTCH; $68
7. FACTORY EMERY FLATS; $68

[Emerald] Green with Envy

The announcement last month of Pantone’s 2013 color of the year made me very happy.  What’s the color, you ask?  Emerald green. 

Emerald green is rich, powerful and incredibly elegant.  Whether you are incorporating the color into your home or adding a fun pop of color to your existing wardrobe; emerald green does not fall short of absolutely stunning!

Let me share with you a few gems that I've scoped out via Pinterest that I am green with envy of.  Ha. Ha.

1. A great statement jacket

2. Adding charm to a dinner party
3. A splash of color on your arm
4. A beautiful pair of earrings
5. Some studded-out kicks
6. A little bit of romance

Purr-fect Pumps!

Animal print, like floral and stripes, seem to have completely overwhelmed my closet.  Whether it be a sassy cheetah, leopard or zebra print—or even a subdued snakeskin—animal-inspired prints have drawn my attention, season after season. 

Meaning, yes, I am not afraid to wear animal print—even in the dead of winter!  In fact, this winter, I recall being stuck in a situation in front of my closet trying to pick out an outfit which did not include some kind of animal print... quite the dilemma, right?  

While I think animal print clothing is fabulous, my recent obsession has been animal print footwear (i.e. leopard pumps).  I get giddy just thinking of all the styling possibilities associated with throwing on a purr-fect pump (I had to do it!).

Sorry for being a tease, these Madewell pumps have been so popular, they sold out completely.  But good God, aren't they gorgeous?

I may be too radical in my theory but consider this: animal print is really just another neutral.  So have fun with the exquisite textures and playful prints and don’t be afraid to take a walk on the wild side!

(Bee)utiful

It is no surprise that Burt’s Bees products are fantastic. Browsing their website, I was amazed at the breadth of product variety.  Here's a few of my favorite products made by Burt’s Bees.  Drum roll, please. . .

1. Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm:  What a gemstone of a product!  I purchased this product for a recent vacation because I didn't want the hassle of putting on lipstick but I wanted a little bit of color on my lips while staying casual at the beach.  I had seen this product in the drugstore and figured I’d take a swing at it.  I am so glad I made the purchase!  This product is butter-soft, non-fragrant, comes in a fun storage tube and keeps my lips feeling healthy and nourished.  This product is 100% natural and contains ingredients such as: coconut, vegetable, beeswax, sunflower and soybean oils.  They offer a variety of different tint colors but I chose Red Dahlia and I think it could be a suitable color for all.
2. Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream:  Who doesn't like the fresh smell of sweet lemon? No one.  My point exactly!  My mom gave me a Burt’s Bees sampler pack a few months ago and this product was one of my favorites in the pack.  I absolutely love the scent and nourishing power of this product.  I like to smear a dash of it on my cuticles before bed and there is no better scent to fall asleep to.  This cuticle cream moisturizes the cuticles with sweet almond oil, cocoa seed butter, vitamin E and sunflower oil and nourishes brittle nails.  Oh, la la.
3. Mango and Orange Sugar Scrub:  You had me at sugar scrub.  I think adding a sugar scrub to your bathing routine is both beneficial and totally luxurious.  What more?  This product can be purchased at your local drugstore!  Slather a generous glob on your hand and begin to lather all over your body.  Make sure to pay special attention to your knees and elbows; you can even hit your feet to eliminate dry stubborn skin.  You will feel awakened by the refreshing scent and your skin will look and feel absolutely radiant after one application.  Power ingredients: natural sugar crystals and orange peel.

What are your Burt’s Bees must-haves?

Cosmetic Toss

LORAC, Unzipped; Sephora

Stila, Waterproof Eyeliner; Sephora

I had an epiphany early last week and realized my makeup bag needed a makeover, stat.  My eyeliner and eye shadow palette were looking a little . . . sad.  A sad appearance led me to believe that my makeup might be a potential bacterial hazard.  Yikes!  Let’s get real, bacteria happens and it is critical that you keep your makeup bag clear of any potential “bacteria-parties”. 

After a little research I found there are quite a few inconsistencies as to how frequently you should toss makeup to ensure your makeup bag stays healthy; but I think the following article provides a decent suggestion as to how frequently you should discard opened cosmetics:

Expiration dates: 
Beginning from the time you first open these products

Powders and shadows // 2 years

Cream shadows // 12 to 18 months

Foundation // 1 year

Lipstick & lipliner // 1 year

Mascara & eyeliners // 3 months

Makeup brushes // Clean weekly using a mild detergent

Makeup sponges // Replace weekly, or when sponge becomes soiled

Ha!  I am impressed to say that I actually “toss” out makeup more frequently then suggested.  Most of my makeup ends up running out before the expiration date comes due but it is important to toss out expired makeup when the time comes due.  It is even more important if you occasionally share makeup with friends and/or family.  Needless to say, always err on the side of caution.  If there is an odor, toss.  If you start breaking out, toss.  If the pigment in the makeup starts to discolor or deteriorate, toss.  Pretty simple stuff.

So, my makeup bag ended up being “clean” but I still treated myself to a new eye shadow pallet from LORAC and some new waterproof eyeliner from Stila.  I have been wearing less and less eye makeup recently but the LORAC palette comes with both 10 beautiful neutral-shade eye shadows and a bonus eye primer.  The two together are a match made in makeup heaven.  I am also really excited to try Stila’s waterproof liquid eyeliner (with a felt tip).  I have heard rave reviews of its mighty stay-power and ease of use. 

Moreover, don’t neglect the health of your precious makeup and if you ever need an excuse to buy more makeup; remind yourself of the potential health risks of ignoring the signs of spoiled cosmetics!

Tango Red: Calvin Klein Confession

Calvin Klein Jeans; $36

A fun and funky trend that will make springtime just that much more enjoyable this year—the ever-so-popular colored skinny jean craze.

In fact, after much debate and agony over what color to finally make a purchase (will it be mint, fuchsia, electric blue... tangerine), I selected a pair of Tango Red Calvin Klein skinny jeans.  If the color "Tango Red" doesn’t sell itself, I'm not sure what will.

Why did I choose the Calvin Klein Tango Red skinny jean? 

Fact: Calvin Klein makes a slamming skinny jean.  No exaggeration.  If I haven’t already confessed my eternal love for my current and first pair of Calvin Klein skinny jeans, I will right now.  I own the most fantastic pair of skinny jeans on the planet and I purchased them from Ross for $30.  Okay, I said it.  Best purchase of my life.  These jeans stand neck and neck with all the cupcakes and puppies in the world, combined. 

Benefits: Calvin Klein skinnies are figure flattering, they cover your rear, they keep their shape through-and-through and are the most versatile pant in my closet (alongside my 7 for All Mankind Ginger Jeans).  I wear my existing Calvin Klein skinnies at least two times a week and I make no excuse for the frequency they are worn. 

Rational: If I purchase the same style jean but in another color, I will be faced with no disappointment.  We’ll see!  I purchased these Tango Red’s from 6pm.com this afternoon and I can’t wait for their arrival.  Oh, did I also mention Calvin Klein jeans can usually always be found on sale and range from $30- $70 per pair, not too shabby, eh?

I am anticipating that these jeans will be too hot to handle and I'm ready to rock them with a little spicy attitude. 

Springtime, you will be my muse and Tango Red, I’m counting on you to deliver the goods!

Bootie

Kendi, rocking the nude bootie!

The bootie, oh the bootie!  The bootie is a shoe you can’t go wrong with.  It's a versatile, stylish and comfortable alternative to a pump or a knee-high boot. 

Here's some reason's why the bootie is simply the best:

1.  No need to fuss with knee-high boots if you sport thick calves or muscular legs. Go ahead and give your legs some breathing room while still sustaining the appearance of wearing a boot. 

2.  You can wear booties with trousers, bootleg or flair style jeans or pants; however, the skinny jean looks best.  Try rolling up the cuff of the jean to create a fun and fresh look!  Exposing ankle is sexy, right?

3.  Unlike flats, the booties traditionally have a modest to high-heel, most baring just a modest heel.  Anytime I can get away with wearing a heel, I will.  I am odd in the fact that I cannot stand flats and the bootie is a fabulous alternative to pulling off a casual but put-together look. 

4.  Comfortable.  Every pair of bootie that I have owned has been extremely comfortable.  When a shoe is comfortable you wear it and that is a good investment.

5.  Cross-seasonal.  Don’t know if I just made that term up but what I’m saying is that you can honestly wear the bootie year-round if you style correctly.  Winter; with skinnies and an oversized sweater.  Spring; with a maxi skirt and cotton tee.  Summer; with boyfriend jeans and a flirty tank.  Fall; with tights and a blazer.

6.  Can be dressed casual or fashionably chic.  Fun colors?  Sign me up.  Pointy or almond toe?  Work appropriate.  Check, check and check.

The most conflicting issue of all. . .  which to choose?  With such variety in style and selection I would recommend buying a nude or neutral pair first.  Nude is chic and will elongate the look of your legs (and will go with just about…anything).  If you feel inclined; buy in multiples!  Once you find the perfect pair, see if it comes it different colors. 

What is your favorite way to style the bootie?

Report; $99

Cha Cha Tint

Cha Cha Tint; Sephora $29

Benefit Cosmetics Cha Cha tint was a gift from Santa this year.  My thought for purchasing a cheek tint was to wear it on the slopes.  I am not one painting my face before I go skiing but... a little waterproof mascara, some heavy duty sunscreen and a little cheek tint never hurt anyone!  I can attest, the cheek tint is perfect for outdoor activity fun (low-maintenance beauty solution) or working the product into your everyday beauty regimen. 

Benefit Cosmetics, Cha Cha tint, delivers to the fullest. The color looks natural,  it is easy to use and the stay-power is impressive!  However, it took me a while to really get the hang of the application process because 1) a little bit goes a long way and 2) using moisturizer to lubricate the cheek is the key to creating a streak-free glow.  Also, the Cha Cha tint is different in respect to other cheek stains because it is not your classic rose or pink color.  The shade is a color-rich coral shade that compliments just about any skin tone.

Here is my application process:

1. Wake up
2. Wash face
3. Apply Clinique Toner
4. Apply Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel all over face
5. Rub a little extra moisturizing lotion in circular motion on the apple of the cheek
6. Make sure the lotion is distributed evenly before tint is applied
7. Apply a light stroke of Cha Cha tint to the apple of the cheek and rub in you’re your fingers in a gentle circular motion until the color is completely blended (start rubbing quickly after application or risk the appearance of streaks)
8. Apply additional tint for desired intensity of color (remember: a little goes a long way)
9. Repeat steps 5-8
10. Apply whatever foundation/powder/tinted moisturizer you generally use (I use Mac Studio Fix plus Foundation Powder) over the top of the applied tint and all of over the face
11. For added shine, apply a light dash of your favorite bronzer or luminzer over the cheek to enhance your already natural glow (I recommend Lorac’s luminzer)

I give this product a solid 2-thumbs up!

Blazer

Blazers; there's nothing more simple and polished then a tailored jacket.  The thing I love most about a blazer is you get maximum polish for minimum effort (i.e. when you are scrambling to get ready in the morning for work).  Also, blazers come in all sorts of textures (light cotton, lined-wool), styles (cropped, boyfriend), colors (black, light blue, . . pink) and weights (summer vs. winter weights). 

Anyway, I was out shopping with my fashionista friend (Ms. Meghan Bas) last weekend we unearthed some pretty serious blazers during our excursion. 

The first find we found was a closeout deal from Ann Taylor Loft.  The blazer is exquisitely made of black wool/tweed with faint white speckles with an applique that runs along the bottom hem and breast flaps.  This blazer was a quaint $24 plus tax and I am certain I'm going to get a lot of use out of it!

I also managed to snag a fun and fabulous bright pink blazer from H&M!  This blazer will transition into Spring very well and I am looking forward to wearing this bold new style. 

Get wild, be crazy.  Buy a fabulous jacket and rock it!

All You Need is Tea & Warm Socks

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Words of Wisdom

Oh, Monday.

Baking is usually a weekend activity for me but I have an urge to bake some homemade chocolate chip cookies.  Chocolate chip cookies are my absolute favorite and I am very excited to use my red KitchenAid hand mixer I got last weekend to bake my French fruit tarts.  

And really, it is quite simple.  All you need is tea, warm socks... and chocolate chip cookies.

Best-Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies

barely adapted from Anna Olson, Food Network Canada

Ingredients: 

3/4 c. unsalted butter, softened 

3/4 c. brown sugar 

1/4 c. granulated sugar 

1 egg 

2 tsp. vanilla extract 

2 c. all purpose flour 

2 tsp. cornstarch 

1 tsp. baking soda 

1/2 tsp. salt 

1 c. bittersweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2.  In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy and light in color. Add egg and vanilla and blend in.

3.  Mix in flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt. Stir in chocolate chunks.

4.  Using a standard-sized cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto a prepared baking sheet.  Bake for 8-10 minutes, until barely golden brown around the edges.  (The tops will not brown, but do NOT cook longer than ten minutes.)

5.  Let cool, on the sheet, on a wire rack for five minutes.  Remove from baking sheet and let cool completely.  Makes approximately 3 dozen.  Try not to eat them all.

I will let you know the level of heavenly these cookies turn out to be.  

To the kitchen I go!

Yogi Tea

Egyptian Licorice Tea, $3-$5 at your local market

Really, Wednesday... why'd you have to chew me up and spit me out!  Geesh!  

Yogi Tea, has been my saving grace today!  As I am trying to fend off what may be the third sinus infection over the course of two months, I am doing everything in my power to beef up my immune system.  In the mean time, I just trying to take a breather and hope that tomorrow will bring a new, healthy day.  Here's to feeling healthy in the mind and body in days to come!

Bonus: the Yogi tea bags come with a cute quote similar to below...

"Those who live in the past have nothing to look forward to in the future"-- Yogi Tea Bag

Brand Junkie

I'm a brand junkie, guilty as charged.  

I admit it, I can be a serious sucker for brand name or designer clothing. Thankfully, 6pm.com can help me sustain my brand-name buying addiction.  

From outerwear brands such as Patagonia and Merrell to designer shoe brands such as Vince Camuto and Miss Sixty, you simply can't go wrong.  With savings up to 80% MSRP, you'll be in discount designer-wear heaven!

Vince Camuto, Kira $67.99

Vince Camuto, Kolby $32.90

Vince Camuto, Cassandra $59.10

BONUS:  My favorite and admired feature of this website is the "video description" tab on nearly each product sold.  So, you get the see the product featured on film and worn on a model/sales person before you make the purchase.  You are even delivered a pretty convincing sales pitch!  A cool and innovative way to sell online product if you ask me.

Browse the site.  I promise you will not be disappointed. 

Friends

Okay--Bella needed to make a debut on the blog.  So here she is.

"Thorns may hurt you, men desert you, sunlight turn to fog;

but you're never friendless ever, if you have a dog. "-- Douglas Mallock

Give your favorite friend a hug today, four-legged or not!