Celeb Looks: Yay or Nay? (Eva, Kim, Kerry, Katie, & Sienna)

I haven't done a Yay or Nay post in forever! Now that my daughter is out of school is a lot harder to bang out posts, but here it is ladies, another of edition of Yay or Nay....

You know about my serious girl crush on Eva Mendes, right? And this is exactly why--right here. Eva looked stunning in NYC celebrating her new Thierry Mugler campaign in a winged column gown, vintage Fred Leighton jewels, and silver Louboutins. A definite Yay for me!

Kerry Washington is working that neon trend and killing it might I add--at the BET Awards in Los Angeles. The dress is by Michael Kors and Louboutin heels. Yay for me!

Really? Doesn't she get tired of this look already? Kim Kardashian was not-so-subtly showing off her assets in a curve-hugging bandage dress for her sisters birthday party no less. Nay for me.

This look confuses me. Did she want to be photographed like this? Or was it laundry day and didn't have anything to wear so she took a vintage wedding dress from the back of her closet, paired it with booties and was too late or tired to fix her hair? That must be it, right? I hope so--for her sake. Nay.

Katie Holmes is always a hit or miss for me, but this backless Contrarian New York dress is definitely a hit! So simple and polished, she paired her gorgeous dress with nude Lanvin pumps. Yay for me!

What do YOU think of these looks?

photos: people

6 Summer Must-Haves I'm Obsessed With.

1. Bright Sunnies
Even if you're not big on the neon trend (like me), there's something about these eye-popping shades that are so playful and fun--they're too irresistible to pass up. These Icon Eyewear sunglasses are perfect because at just $10 you won't feel bad for giving in to this seasonal trend.

2. Magenta Polish
If you follow me on facebook, you'll know that I've been scouring the aisles of drugstores trying to find the perfect summer polish. Right now, for me--that would definitely be magenta. I don't know why this sudden need for the perfect magenta has consumed my life, but now I'm happy to report that the perfect shade of magenta lies with Essie's Foot Loose. Case Closed.

3. Nautical Tote
The perfect tote for summer. It's lightweight and sturdy. It's casual and stylish. It can be worn to the beach or to the store. Plus, this DVF tote has a little extra cute factor to it with the "Life is Love" print....and you know what a sucker I am for hearts. DVF + ♥'s = No Brainer.

4. Divalicious Floppy Hat
Who doesn't want to feel a little J.LO-ish in a fierce floppy hat? (I do!) This Top Shop one makes me feel all warm and tingly inside. Love it.

5. Ankle Wrap Espadrilles
I'll tell you exactly when I fell in love with ankle wrap espadrilles. Only You. Circa 1994. Marisa Tomei and her fabulous wardrobe. It's one of my all time favorite movies to-this-day. These espadrilles just make me feel like I should be traveling around Rome somewhere or some other equally fabulous place....

6. BBW Bali Mango Mist
Mangoes have always been one of my favorite fruits, but now it's quickly becoming one of my favorite scents. Holy crap does this BBW Bali Mango smell good! It's smells utterly delicious and almost good enough to eat! Yum.

What are some of your summer obsessions?

Bobbi Brown Fall 2011 Tortoise Collection, Completely Drool-Worthy.

Ladies, let's take a second to gawk at Bobbi Brown's New Tortoise Collection. This fall 2011 collection features irresistible neutrals and metallics packed nicely in a gorgeous tortoise shell case.

I'm all about neutral make-up. It's simple. It's classic. It's timeless. And correct me if I'm wrong but wouldn't some of these shades create the perfect warm smoky eye? Hells yeah.

Bobbi Brown Tortoise Shell Bronze Eye Palette $60 (top)

• Banana Eyeshadow
• Gold Nugget Sparkle Eyeshadow
• Amber Shimmer Wash Eyeshadow
• Copper Cocoa Shimmer Wash Eyeshadow
• Tiger’s Eye Metallic Eyeshadow
• Bronze Metallic Eyeshadow
• Olive Sparkle Eyeshadow
• Espresso Eyeshadow

Bobbi Brown Tortoise Shell Sand Eye Palette $60 (bottom)

• Ivory Eyeshadow
• Gold Bar Sparkle Eyeshadow
• Desert Sand Metallic Eyeshadow
• Terracotta Eyeshadow
• Antique Rose Eyeshadow
• Hot Stone Eyeshadow
• Sandy Rose Metallic Eyeshadow
• Black Chocolate Eyeshadow

The Bobbi Brown Tortoise Fall 2011 Collection is available now at Nordstrom counters and available in July at bobbibrowncosmetics.com

LOFT Has Me Feeling Blue....(But, In A Good Way)

Have you checked out LOFT lately?

They're seeing in shades of blue this summer, and if you remember from this post--I'm totally loving blues right now. ♥

From sun-washed chambray to classic navy, these looks cover it all. But what I like most about them is that, not only are they styled to perfection, but they work for any occasion--from work, to weekend errands, to quick summer getaways. la-la-love them!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

Look Like A Bronzed Bombshell This Summer! {Video}

VS pro Jenna Anton is at it again girls--this time she is showing us step-by-step instructions on how to transform us into glowing goddess with Victoria's Secret Beach Sexy Collection.

It's definitely interesting to see how a make-up pro applies self-tanners and bronzers. Trust me. I know from past experiences it can be pretty disastrous if you don't know what you're doing. (oy.)

These products seem simple and pretty easy to use and apply. What do you think? U ready to get your faux glow on?

My Daughter: The Next Coco Chanel.

When my daughter was asked at school what she wanted to be when she grew up, her first response was: A Princess. (Hey, who can blame the girl--I still hold on to that hope too. Fingers Crossed.)

But, after thinking about it some more she told me she wanted to be a fashion designer, and not just some local run-of-the-mill designer--she wants to be a French Designer. Parisian, to be exact. (Yes. All this from a 5 year old.)

Where she got it--I have no idea, but it amuses me. She practices her french from time to time greeting us with a random Bonjour! and I just laugh at think: dream big, baby girl. I'll be proud of whatever you become--just as long as you remain my little care bear for now...

The Perfect Summer Day-To-Night Clutch. {via Banana Republic}

I just found the perfect summer clutch over at Banana Republic. It's big enough to carry all my daily essentials through-out the day, and adds the perfect pop of color to my outfits at night!

I'm loving the yellow, although the orange is also calling me name....

What do you think...the perfect summer day-to-night clutch?

Deal Of The Day: Zara Semi-Annual Sale For Ladies, Gents, and Kids!

It's that time of the year kids! Zara starts their semi-annual sale today!! (Yipee!) This one of my favorite stores. They always have stylish pieces for the entire family at great prices and now you can score yourself an even sweeter deal.

Take a look at the deals I found just browsing through quickly....

Sleeveless Dress-$29.99/ Dip Die Sweater-$19.99

Boys Rugby Shirt-$15.99/ Girls Jumpsuit-$12.99

BTW, they always have ah-mazing outerwear that I would definitely take advantage of if I were you. You may not wear it now, but you'll be happy you got such a great deal later.

Zara's Semi-Annual sale is available online and in-stores.

www.zara.com

{Winner Of} Disney Pixar Cars 2 Prize Pack Giveaway!!--CLOSED.

Rev up your engines folks, Cars 2 hits theaters tomorrow!! I know kids and parents are like are DYING to see this movie--and that's the case in our house too. To be honest, I think my husband is just a tad bit more excited than my daughter, but Jason is just a big kid at heart anyway, so that doesn't surprise me. (haha)

If you've been out of the loop, here's a little info about the movie:

About:

Star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile (voice of Michael Caine) and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell (voice of Emily Mortimer). Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

Giveaway:
In celebration of the release of Cars 2, Disney Pixar is generously giving (1) lucky Babblings of a Mommy reader a Cars 2 Prize Pack!!

(US/Canada)

The prize pack includes:

- CARS 2 t-shirt in youth sizes of S, M, L, XL

- CARS 2 set of 3 bumper tickets

- CARS 2 temporary tattoo sheet (2 per winner)

- CARS 2 puzzle


Mandatory Entry:
"Like" Babblings of a Mommy on Facebook. Be sure to mention the giveaway on my wall, then comment back here telling me you entered!

*Remember to leave your email on each comment made as winner will be notified via email.

Extra Entries:

• "Like" PixarCars on Facebook.
  
• Follow DisneyPixar on Twitter.
  
• Become a new GFC Follower (If you're already a follower let me know you are)
• Subscribe to my feed HERE
  
• Follow me on Twitter and tweet this: "I hope to win the @disneypixar #Giveaway at www.babblingsofamommy.com @babblingofmommy"
• Add my button to your site.

Remember each one counts as a different entry so be sure to enter them separately. You may tweet once a day if you'd like, but be sure to leave comment on post about your re-tweets. I do check and verify entries. Giveaway ends July 7th . A winner will be selected by random.org and will be notified via email.

UPDATE: Congratulations to sassysasha817@gmail.com You're the winner of the Cars 2 Prize Pack!! Thanks to all those who entered.

Have You Heard? Versace and H&M Are Having A Baby!!

Tongues were wagging when Versace announced that they are releasing a capsule collection with H&M due out this November. According to WWD, the collection will focus on the brand's heritage, and will include men's, women's, and home.


How exciting! This is just one of the slew of designers that H&M has collaborated with recently and I'm sure it won't be the last. Designer collections have always been a mega hit for H&M, and this one I'm sure will rock the house.

Here's a sneak peak of what's to come, just to tickle our fancy!

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

The collection will launch November 17, 2011 and will be available in 300 stores and online.

What do you think ladies, are you excited?

photos: via h&m

Sunscreen Meets Fun With Sunbow!

Summer-time is always exciting for the kids but it can be nerve-wrecking for parents. A little fun in the sun is good and dandy--but too much can be unsafe. Even more so when our little ones forget to put on their sunscreen!

Parents can now find comfort with new Sunbow Sunscreen which offers all natural products specifically formulated for children's gentle skin but with their favorite animated characters like Dora the Explorer, her cousin Diego and SpongeBob SquarePants!


To get kids even more excited about the application process this sunscreen is colored. The Dora formula is light pink, the Diego is blue, and SpongeBob is yellow. This helps kids and parents alike not miss a spot. Don't worry, you won't have yellow kids running everywhere--even though the sunscreen goes on with color, it dries clear.


This sunscreen gets two thumbs up from me. Not only was my daughter super excited to put on sunscreen (yes, sunscreen) but it stood up to the Florida Sun which you all know is no easy task.

Sunbow Sunscreens are available in cream, spray and stick formulas and are available in SPF 30 and SPF 45. Prices range from $12.99 to $7.99 and can be found at www.sunbowsunscreen.com and drugstore.com

Overall Rating: 5 out 5
Price: $12.99 (Cream) $9.99 (Spray) $7.99 (Sun Stick)
Recommend: Yes

*Product was provided for review purposes. See disclaimer/disclosure for more info.

Cool Finds: His and Hers Color Watches.

It's officially summer folks! That means our wardrobe is in dire need of some vibrant hues. Even if you're not a fan of bright summer clothing--you can still splash on a little summer fun by replacing your everyday time-tellers with these cheery finds!


Women:
1. Marc Jacobs-$175
2. Adidas-$65
3. Guess-$85
4. Michael Kors-$120


Men:
1. Michael Kors-$180
2. ESQ by Movado-$395
3. Guess-$105
4. Lacoste-$175

Sula Launching Make-Up Line.

I'm a sucker for cute packaging and this new Sula make-up line has just that. Crisp white packaging and pretty florals--what's not too like?

Sula is formerly a fragrance line who has branched out to include nail polishes and now a make-up line. These bright and cheery colors contain no harmful chemicals and are cruelty-free, but what sweetens the deal is that they are just $8 a pop!

Get your Sula fix starting June 27 at Sulabeauty.com or Ulta.

You Don't Know Me By My Polka Dots.

I'm not big on polka dots, but I had to do a double take when I saw Olivia Palermo wearing this Bensoni dress at the amfAR's NYC gala. Then I saw this chick via Mr. Newton looking so summer chic in her polka dot blouse that now I'm starting to seriously rethink my distaste for polka dots. If these two ladies can look so stylishly dressed in polka dots--why can't I?

What do you think?

Beauty Tip Of The Day: Get The Summer Bombshell Look AM/PM (Video)

Every girl wants that sultry glowing skin, especially in the summer. Victoria's Secret makeup pro Jenna Anton shows us how to get the perfect summer makeup with just a few steps. Then learn how this bombshell look can move from day to night all summer long!

{Olivia Munn} Look For Less.

Olivia Munn was looking extra pretty in a sheer blue lace top at the Elizabeth Glaser AIDS Foundation event this past week. I'm loooving the baby blue top paired with the dark wash jeans, don't you? So sweet and feminine, but still perfect for any casual outing. Totally loving it.

In fact, I liked it so much--I created a look for less for it! Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find her exact top but this nice open cardigan gives off the same delicate billow-y effect.

Now if I can only get her faux tan.....

Open Cardigan-$24.80 (Forever21)
Flared Jeans-$31.00 (Jane Norman)
White Shoulder Bag-$38.00 (Roxy)
Cognac Platform-$35.00 (Aldo)

{Planet Gear Giveaway} For You Outdoor Lovers!!--CLOSED.

PlantGear.com is the world's best gear, apparel, and travel destinations at prices up to 70% off on most leading outdoor brands. It's a flash sale site that offers plenty of cool gear for outdoor lovers and enthusiasts!

Right now they have amazing deals on Sky-Lodge Resort Packages (a luxury hotel in Park City, Utah) and Nikita (rad outerwear and streetwear for women who love boardsports), but my favorite being Make Love Not Trash (a handbag and accessory company focused on using natural, organic, and eco-aware materials and non-toxic printing techniques.)


Pretty awesome right? Aside from the top notch products, there are few other reasons Planet Gear stands out from the rest.

We believe in the outdoors. Fresh air. Fresh tracks. Warm sand. Starry skies. Drifting snow. Lazy rivers. The places we go to find inspiration.

We believe in gear. Warm fleece jackets, stretchy yoga wear, energy bars, bells for our beach cruisers. The things that bring comfort to our lives outdoors.

We believe in exploring. Inspiring destinations, travel blogs, dreamy landscapes. Experiences that create sweet, unforgettable memories.

We believe in giving back. Clean air, clear water, healthy living. To preserve our world, we donate to grassroots environmental groups through 1% for the Planet.

We believe in sharing. We work with the best brands in the outdoor and active lifestyle communities to bring our members exclusive deals on gear, apparel, and travel destinations.

One more cool feature that PlanetGear.com has is the Give $10 Get $10 offer. Once you've signed up to Planet Gear's free membership you give the friends you refer to the site a $10 credit and you get a $10 credit when they place their first order!

Giveaway:
Ready to explore PlanetGear.com and all it has to offer? How about sweetening the deal with a $25 Gift Certificate courtesy of Planet Gear? That exactly what's in-store for (one) lucky Babblings of a Mommy reader!! (US/Canada)

www.planetgear.com

Mandatory Entry:

Leave your email in my contest entry form. (That's it! Super easy.)

*A winner will be selected at random and notified via email. Giveaway ends June 30th.

The Must List | June 17, 2011

Happy Friday! And happy early Father's Day! What are your plans for the weekend? While you're having coffee, here are a few things you must check out to wear, eat or simply be inspired by.

• Babblings of a Mommy: Jenny shares 5 reasons she NEEDs this peach dress
• Expecting Chic: Teal shows how to work the maxi dress during maternity & beyond
• Cool Kids: Betsy interviews an organizing expert for great advice on dealing with kid stuff
• Always Just a Mom: Stephanie shares her secret dessert weapon - blackberry cobbler
• The Baby Shopaholic: Peyton's mom shows off her daughter's weekend pool style
• Taking It On: XLMIC is wanted for the Nuun team - or as a nun?
• Changing Diapers and Taking Names: Brittany shares a Eggplant Parmesan recipe - yummy even without the parmesan
• henry happened: Stephanie gets in on the feather trend with guinea feather hair clips.

The Must List is produced weekly by Stephanie of henry happened - for information on how to be involved, email me at henryhappened@gmail.com

See By Chloe Has Me Falling In ♥ With Fall. (Fall 2011 Collection.)

The weather here in Florida should have it's own type of classification: Brutal. Atrocious. Obscene & Diabolical.

For reals, that's they type of weather we've been dealing with lately, and here's the kicker...it's not even summer yet! Oy. I can only imagine the miserable days ahead. Although it seems quite laughable to be thinking of sweaters and coats right now--this is the time of year designers release they're Fall Lookbooks, and so far only one has made me any kind of impression on me: See By Chloe Fall 2011.

I'm in love with this soft neutral palette and the girly-meets-tomboy attitude. The gray tights with those cognac booties are perfection. And the cozy knits and coats in this collection are literally to die for.

Check out See by Chloe entire Fall 2011 Collection.

{Reader Request} Stylish Cross-Body Bags--For Less!

Julia over @ BoysBeCool asked me if I can help her find the perfect cross-body bag that she's been desperately searching for. (OK, first of all I'm honored just to be even asked, and second of all--you all know what a bag whore I am--so of course I said, YES!)

Julia is looking for the perfect balance of "price and soul." Translation=She wants a hot bag that looks like a million bucks--but doesn't cost a million bucks. So Julia, hopefully one of these will strike a cord with you:

(All bags are $50 and under)

orange wash zip bag-$45/ evie-$39.90

erekson-$45/ hayden-$19.99

tones-$50/ kreisher-$50

urban expressions-$49.95/ nine west mini-$19.95

Another recommendation I have for you is this Steve Madden Frequent Flyer bag that I'm a bit obsessed with. It's a little pricier than the rest, but is still at a modest $68.00

Hope that helps Julia! :)