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How I Personalize My Cell Phone (IFB Project #19)
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I’ve been a member of the Independent Fashion Bloggers (IFB) for a few months now, but this is the first time I’ve participated in one of their community projects. This week’s project was to show how we personalize our cell phones.
I don’t really do anything out of the ordinary to the outside of my phone – but I do dress it in a J Crew iPhone 4 case. I love this case because it’s cute, but not too cutesy. It’s got a big flower on the back, but when I’m holding it and you can’t see the flower, everyone thinks it’s camo.
I feel like iPhone cases have come leaps and bounds since I bought mine many months ago. I’m considering purchasing one of the iPhone cases from Nordstrom: either Kate Spade (I used to have this case), Rebecca Minkoff, Petunia Pickle Bottom, or Case Mate.
After all, as IFB pointed out, for fashion bloggers, phones are one of the most important accessories we carry.
Excited to see what other IFBs have done to personalize their phones!
Halloween Weekend: Costumes, Cocktails & Cough Drops
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Happy Halloween! Obviously, today is a work day. So our celebrating took place over the weekend. My coming down with a terrible cold definitely put a damper on the festivities… But I couldn’t miss Halloween!
Friday night we celebrated with a small bash at our place. And I spent the rest of the weekend trying to get over this cold. By about 10 PM on Friday (only half way through our party) my voice was completely hoarse, I was coughing, and my throat was killing me. It was a bummer.
I’m not sure how many of you guys watch the HBO series True Blood. But if you do, you’ll appreciate Carter’s and my couples costume this year. We were Sookie Stackhouse and Eric Northman! And it actually worked out okay that Winston refused to wear his bat costume because in the spirit of True Blood he got to be Sam Merlotte. (Get it?!)
This year’s Halloween decorations definitely put last year’s decorations to shame. The majority of the photos in this post are of the decorations we put up for our party on Friday night. I also did some baking for the party and you’ll find our Witches Brew Halloween Cocktail Recipe down below as well.
I hope everyone got to celebrate the spooky holiday and didn’t have to spend it sick, like I did!
Witches Brew Halloween Cocktail Reciepe
+1/2 gallon vodka
+12 beers
+5 cans frozen lemonade from concentrate
+Food-grade dry ice
+A few drops green food coloring
Directions: Combine vodka, beers and lemonade into a punch bowl and stir. Add a few drops of food coloring. When guests arrive, add a few chunks of dry ice to make the drink start to bubble and smoke. Continue to add bits of dry ice as it melts to maintain the smoke.
Important! Take caution when handling dry ice and be sure to follow the directions that come with the ice to prevent injury. Be sure not to serve any chunks of the dry ice to any of your guest in their drinks.
My Past Halloween Costumes
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I’m getting very, very excited for Halloween!
It’s funny – as I was going through my Facebook photos trying to track down pictures of my old Halloween costumes for this post – it dawned on me that in college, we didn’t really need much of an excuse to dress up. Looking back through photos, it’s difficult to tell if it was Halloween or just another themed event. Now that we’re “grown ups” – we only really get to dress up in costume once a year. So I guess it’s more special now. (Okay – I miss college sometimes!)
At any rate, here are some photos of the costumes me and my friends wore over the past few years. Some of these are from college and some are after. And they’re really in no particular order.
Attention friends of mine who make an appearance in those photos! If any of you would like me to take one down for whatever reason, just ask!
And this year, Carter and I are doing another couples costume! I’ll post photos after the fact, though. I hope everyone has a wonderful Halloween weekend! Take it easy on the sugar.
GUEST POST: 5 Luxury Pieces That Define 21st Century Jewelry
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Today’s guest poster, founder and owner of Luxury Bazaar, is much better qualified to talk about luxury jewelry than I am. So instead of offering my usual antidote for guest posts that I do, I’m going to let Roman Sharf, the owner of one of the web’s largest luxury goods stores, introduce you to five pieces that define 21st Century jewelry…
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The jewelry styles of the early 21st century could best be described as homages to timeless artistry with fresh, modern twists on the side. Bold shapes, intricate designs, and modern-day inspirations are all well represented in these five contemporary jewelry pieces, designed by some of the most well-respected names in the fashion world, including Ivanka Trump, Harry Winston, David Yurman, Bulgari, and Tiffany & Co. These new jewelry designs represent a look that is both powerful and feminine, with an eye towards the future.
Mother-of-Pearl, Rock Crystal and Diamond Bubble Bib Necklace – Ivanka Trump Rock Tradition (above)
Ivanka Trump is the glamorous daughter of famous business tycoon and television star Donald Trump. Rather than riding the tail of her father’s fame, she has made a name for herself in the fashion world all on her own. This is thanks to her stunning jewelry designs that are perfect for the modern, fashion-forward woman. From the Ivanka Trump Rock Tradition Collection comes this modern take on a chandelier necklace. The piece comes to life with bubble-inspired shapes made of crystals, which almost look like glassy droplets of water, dangling in between dazzling diamonds. The neutral, muted color palate makes it a wearable necklace with any colored outfit, and it can also be accompanied perfectly by gorgeous bubble-inspired bracelets, rings, and earrings from the same collection. The Bubble Bib necklace is made with 18 karat white gold, mother-of-pearl, rock crystal, and diamonds (with a 4.71 total carat weight). The cost of this delectable piece? A cool $34,000.
Harry Winston Guggenheim Diamond Ring (above)
What could be more modern than a ring inspired by modernism itself? The Guggenheim Diamond Ring, created by celebrity jewelry designer Harry Winston, is named after one of New York City’s most famous art museums. The museum itself is known not only for its impressive collections of everything from impressionistic to contemporary and modern art, but also for its unique architecture: a curved, tiered white building that must be seen to be fully appreciated. Harry Winston captures the essence of the same rounded, layered design in his dazzling 3.96 carat Guggenheim diamond ring, made with 161 sparkling diamonds set in gorgeous platinum. The ring comes from his New York collection, an array of pieces inspired by the city that never sleeps, including a Central Park inspired bracelet, a skyscraper inspired ring, and even several pieces that are inspired by traffic. For $31,000, this ring could be yours.
David Yurman Pave Diamond X Bracelet (above)
David Yurman, who originally began his design career as a sculptor in the mid 1960s, has built a powerful brand that captures his free thinking artistic spirit in every piece of jewelry he designs. Influenced by textured styles like links, chains, and woven shapes, his Pave Diamond X cuff bracelet is a good example of his straightforward, yet striking, creations. Two beautiful materials – stunning 18 karat yellow gold and brilliant pave diamonds – come together to form this elegant, yet edgy bracelet. The braceletís thick, twisted gold band crosses over the top of a diamond-crusted band, creating a wide ‘X’ shape. This bracelet is part of David Yurman’s X Collection, which features other modernistic, ìX-shapedî cuff bracelets made of materials like sterling silver and yellow gold, with diamond and gold accents to accentuate the ‘X’ designs. The suggested retail price of this intricate bracelet is $19,500.
Bulgari Mediterranean Eden Pendant Earrings (above)
Bulgari, popularly written as BVLGARI, is at the forefront of today’s most influential jewelry designers. The company originated in Italy in the 1970s, and has now grown into an empire with nearly 300 stores in various locations worldwide. The appeal of modern European design is evident in these simple, yet elegant Bulgari earrings, which channel the look and feel of a classy Mediterranean style. They feature round, 18 karat pink gold circle pendants decorated with chunky silver-white symbols and pave diamonds. The serene design, named ‘Mediterranean Eden,’ almost seems inspired by works of ancient Mediterranean and Egyptian artisans, but the look has been stylishly updated for a very 21st century effect. The neutral peachy-gold and silver colors would make these earrings a perfect complement to almost any outfit. And at $8,900, they are undoubtedly luxurious.
Tiffany & Co. Jean Schlumberger Heart Clip (above)
Tiffany & Co. is a name that needs no introduction in the world of jewelry design. The company has been bringing beauty into the lives of women since 1853, and was immortalized forever on film in the classic 1961 romantic comedy, ìBreakfast at Tiffanyís,î starring Audrey Hepburn. French designer Jean Schlumbergerís beautiful brooch for Tiffany & Co. features all the lovely romanticism of a heart-shaped clip, mixed with a modern, edgy feel. Unlike the often-overdone, clichÈ use of classic heart shapes, this brooch forms a heart out of twisted 18 karat gold wires and turquoise gems held by pointy golden spikes. Jean Schlumberger was supposedly very influenced by fairytale sea creatures, and this pretty-meets-punk look is almost reminiscent of a mermaid trident, with its pointed shapes and perfectly paired gold and blue-green colors. For $7,000, you could be wearing this fantastic luxury clip.
About the Author
Roman Sharf is the founder and owner of Luxury Bazaar, a leading online dealer of luxury goods including jewelry and art. Having been a luxury watch collector his entire life, Roman decided to turn his passion for high-end style into a business over ten years ago, and in the ensuing years he has grown his nascent company into an online retailing powerhouse with millions in annual sales. By hunting down hard-to-find luxury watches and exquisite designer jewelry, Luxury Bazaar has made a name for itself as the go-to source for prized goods.
Complimentary Prints: Guidelines for mixing patterns in the same outfit
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Mixing patterns used to scare me. But I’ve been feeling brave lately. I’ve come to realize mixing prints is as easy to pull off as it is to mess up. (That’s supposed to be comforting, by the way.) I’m by no means an expert, but I can tell you a few rules guidelines to follow for creating an outfit made up of the perfect, complimentary prints.
Three reasons you should try mixing prints:
1) It’ll allow you to look at your existing collection of clothing in a different way, opening up countless outfit opportunities.
2) It’ll help keep you out of a style rut, where all your outfits look the same and you’re constantly uninspired by your closet.
3) It’ll make your old clothes feel new again.
Okay, now that you’re convinced…
♥Animal prints are neutral, meaning they can be made to compliment (almost) every other type of pattern. So think about investing in a few animal print accents – such as an animal print skinny belt, clutch, scarf and/or shoes (like mine!)
♥Stripes, polka dots, and plaids are also neutral, by the way. So they’re good patterns to own sweaters and blouses in.
♥Choose a base color. This should be a color that can be found somewhere in each print in the outfit. This will make your mix of patterns cohesive. Tip: If you’re just starting out with pattern mixing, choose a neutral base color like navy or black and look for two items of printed clothing that both have the base color in them.
♥Balance a larger pattern with a smaller one. For example, if you’re wearing a skirt with big, well-spaced flowers on it, offset the skirt with a shirt that has thin, close-together stripes.
♥ Mix fabrics of different textures and weights. For example, try a light, silk patterned blouse under an argyle sweater vest. Or a floral tweed pencil skirt with a cashmere polka dot sweater.
♥ Break up two or more non-neutrual patterns with a solid. For example, if you have a patterned skirt, and a patterned sweater, break them up with a neutral, solid-colored shirt.
Remember, there’s no exact science when it comes to pattern mixing. Following these guidelines will help, but in the end it’s all about experimentation and figuring out what you’re comfortable with!
Here are some more lovely photos of my subtle pattern mixing today… Notice the cohesive color in both my patterns: black. I know these photos don’t show the most daring pattern mixture that you’ve ever seen – but they were enough to inspire this post. Stay tuned for more outfit photos that showcase pattern and print mixing.
HOW TO: Get the look of a blowout with a curling iron
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Who doesn’t love the look of a salon-style, round-brush blowout? Unfortunately, giving yourself a blowout without the help of a stylist can be quite challenging and time-consuming. Luckily, my friend Emily has discovered an easy, time-effecient way to achieve the same look with a curling iron instead of a round brush (she did it on my hair – above!) The best part? It’s easy to do on yourself! No professional stylist needed! In today’s video tutorial, Emily shows you, using my hair, how to get the look of a round brush blowout using a curling iron.
The finished product:
GUEST POST: 4 Ways to Wear the Classic Button Down
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Today’s quest post is quite relevant to my style, as I wear button down shirts almost daily. Far from boring, the classic button down has been adapted throughout the years to become one of the most versatile pieces of clothing that money can buy. Allow my guest poster, Erin, to explain…
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Every woman loves a classic collared shirt. It’s a crisp, clean look that will never go out of style. This fall, jazz up that basic button down and give it the attention it merits.
For instance, take a look at this Tommy Hilfiger Luxury Linen Shirt (above). Made out of light linen, this comfortable top is perfect for summer barbecues or even outdoor adventures. However, the Tommy shirt can easily be styled for fashionable daytime attire, perfect for lunch dates, shopping, or parties. Here are four ways to take the Tommy shirt from ‘casual cool’ to ‘classy chic.’
1. Pair the Luxury Linen Shirt in ‘Flower Pink’ with dark, skinny denim or form-fitting white denim. Make sure the top is ironed and crisp before tucking into your tight bottoms. Add a thin glitter belt to your waist for a perfect shimmer accent. Cuff the sleeves, throw on some stylish flats or closed toe heels, and add some sparkle to your neck, wrists, and/or ears. Lastly, finish this look with a darling fedora. A feminine hat can quickly style the Tommy shirt/skinny jean combination. Look for colors that compliment the pink top, such as navy blue. Ta-dah! You’ve transformed the BBQ top into a fashionable daytime get-up.
2. For look number two, pair the Tommy shirt in ‘Turkish Stone’ with a cropped pant that hits just above ankle. Check out the Michael Kors zip-ankle pant in khaki or navy. This flattering cut looks fabulous with some stylish flats. Either tuck the Tommy shirt into the cropped pant or wear the top loosely, hanging a few inches over the waist. Both looks are great. You can easily add flavor to this chic, basic outfit by incorporating some wrist décor and accessories. Pair some bangles with a large wrist watch and opt for a big, colorful purse. Lastly, decorate your neck with an old-school skinny scarf tied in a knot. This elegant, flirty accessory can add personality and glamour to the outfit.
3. Feeling a bit more feminine? The Tommy shirt can look amazing with a high-waist, pleated skirt that hits a few inches above the knee. Opt for a skirt with a playful, charming pattern to add interest to the outfit. The contrast of the skirt design with the solid color top will look amazing. The Tommy shirt/skirt duo is a girly, fabulous combination. Rather than tucking the Tommy top into the skirt, try tying the bottom pieces in a semi-loose knot, accentuating your small waist and revealing the flattering cut of the skirt. Throw on some shiny flats and wear thick layered pearls to complete the look. For the preppy chic ladies, rock a sweater over the back and shoulders, adding a fun layer to the Tommy shirt.
4. Most women immediately gravitate towards jackets and sweaters to cover their dresses. However, the Tommy Luxury Linen Shirt can look incredible over a simple dress, creating a sophisticated daytime outfit. For instance, pair the Tommy shirt in white with the J.Crew Crossover dress in ‘Heather Indigo.’ This beautifully draped dress is the perfect canvas to style. Just as you loosely tied the Tommy tee over the skirt, use the same technique with the dress. The white color on blue looks sharp. You can wear virtually any shoe with this combination—oxfords and boat shoes look fantastic, but you could also sport a glitter flat or pump. Also, have fun with accessories. Wear a cute fedora or sunhat, sunglasses, and perhaps a chunky jeweled necklace.
So there you have it! You have completely transformed the basic button down Tommy shirt and created four incredibly stylish daytime outfits! You can create all four looks quickly and easily, and you can mix and match accessories and shoes to create even more combinations. Buy the Tommy Luxury Linen Shirt today at usa.tommy.com. It’s on sale for $69.99, down from $128. Before purchasing this versatile, timeless piece, don’t forget to look for Tommy Hilfiger coupons, you can save even more!
About the author: Erin Prickett is the fashion consultant for CheapSally.com. When she’s not working she enjoys finding great deals on apparel, shoes and accessories and recommends using Cheap Sally coupons for Tommy Hilfiger.
These last few weeks…
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These past few weeks… captured in snapshots. These past few weeks have been busy but lovely at the same time. I bought a few new accessories (pictured here). Carter and I made it out to the pumpkin patch with our friends, their new baby, and our puppy. It was a cute little family gathering. I’ve gotten the chance to see some other friends too recently, which has been nice. Had some family in town. And we’ve started decorating for Halloween at our apartment! And although I still have a busy next few weeks coming up, I’m looking forward to everything on the horizon!
Obviously, Carter and I get very excited about Halloween. If you recall, we went all out decorating for Halloween last year in our old apartment. And we’re getting even more into it this year!
Is this a holiday you decorate for, too?
Bare Necessities Dearfoams Long Fleece Robe: Cozy meets stylish
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For those of you who have ever lived with me (mind you – I lived in a sorority house with 55 girls for two years in college), you’re likely familiar with my obsession with pink bathrobes. You probably noticed me wandering around the sorority house with my bright pink bathrobe wrapped around me like a mummy as I stumbled my way down the three flights of stairs for breakfast in the mornings. (Who am I kidding? On days when I had late class, I stayed in my robe until lunchtime!)
Side note: My boyfriend actually bought me a Build-a-Bear in college that was wearing a pink bathrobe because it was such a trademark outfit of mine…
But as these things go, years of wear and tear took their tole on my old pink robe and some time into my senior year of college, it became time for me to retire it.
Since then, I’ve been searching for the perfect replacement for my old robe, but nothing has quite compared. Until now… *Cue dramatic music*
This Dearfoams Long Fleece Robe that was gifted to me by the lingerie, hosiery and sleepwear empire Bare Necessites is hands down the softest, most luxurious bathrobe I’ve ever worn. Bonus: It’s pink!
What’s more, it couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. Carter likes to keep our apartment ice cold. (What’s the deal with guys and air conditioning?) And in my opinion, there’s nothing worse than shivering in the morning when you’re trying to get ready for work. But this fuzzy, fleecy robe arrived just as the fall chill was beginning to dominate my already stressful mornings. So thank you Bare Necessities for sending me this cozy robe and thus saving me copious arguments with my boyfriend over how I’d rather not suffer from hypothermia this winter. It’s much appreciated.
What’s there to know about Bare Necessities?
Well, funny you should ask. I was actually pretty familiar with the brand before they reached out to me. I ordered some stuff from their site in college when Nordstrom was out of my size and came to realize that Bare Necessities is a fantastic resource for brand name styles and hard-to-find lingerie sizes. They carry bras in over 200 sizes, and over 150 brands, so there really is something for everyone, no matter your shape or size. In addition to bras (which is their specialty), they also carry hosiery (remember the guest post last week about how to wear black tights – that was written by a Bare Necessities rep), and sleepwear and robes (obviously!)
Additionally, Bare Necessities is very customer-oriented and truly makes the shopping experience about you. According to their website, “that means offering you expert fit advice, product information that tells you want you really need to know, a beautiful range of photos to show you back views and show key features, and providing top-notch customer service every step of the way, including our famous no-hassle return policy.”
What’s more, BareNecessities.com will donate 25 cents to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® for every bra you purchase during the month of October!
So if you haven’t already, go check them out!
Disclosure: I was provided this robe free of charge under the condition that I would review it. But the review and opinions expressed in this post are my own, not those of Bare Necessities.
Fall fashion essentials: Warm done right
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I love the photo in the upper left corner of the collage above. I think it’s simple, beautiful, and optimizes exactly how I want to look all fall/winter. If you can’t tell, I’m in a bit of a hot cocoa drinking, cozy, nostalgic mood today. Thats why these types of clothes are making me happy right now. They’re classic, cozy, and totally fall.
Fall fashion essentials:
+Cozy, crew-neck sweater.
+Wool scarf.
+Furry, flat boots.
+(Faux) leather shorts (just for fun!)
+Black opaque tights.
I still need to pick up some leather shorts and fuzzy boots – otherwise, I’m set!
What’s on your shopping list right now?