The Switch.

It's only been a few weeks since Arianna started Kindergarten and we've already had to deal with a few hiccups along the way. First was the never-ending crying game, which I learned was easily solved with ice-cream (thank gawd).  Then came the dread parent/teacher conference which I thought was going to be over the slight disagreement her teacher and I had over a pencil box. (It's a long story--but in short, her teacher put her on a "warning" because she forgot to put her pencil box away and I didn't think it was merited, so she and I went back and forth on the issue for a bit.)  But ultimately the conference went a lot better than I expected because she just called me in to tell me things that I already knew--like that my daughter is shy/quiet/takes a while to warm up to people..yada, yada, yada.

Fall Items Worth Drooling Over....

There's something about fall fashion that literally gives me chills. There's nothing quite like it if you ask me. Especially with drool-worthy items like these in your closet! I just about lost my mind when I found these pieces, and I'm pretty sure if you're a fashion junkie like me--you might lose your mind too.

Sheer Cover Mineral Make-Up Giveaway!!--CLOSED.

 

OK girlies, you've already heard me gush about Sheer Cover's mineral foundation, and I how I've been using it religiously since I got it.  But now it's your turn to get a little somethin' somethin' nice... Sheer Cover is giving one of my readers a whole make-up kit, for free!!! 

Here's what you'll be getting..

About The Kit:

Mineral Foundation SPF 15
The Sheer Cover® Mineral Foundation is a unique 4-in-1 formulation that acts as sun protection, anti-aging protection, foundation, and finishing powder. Natural SPF 15 protection and anti-oxidant properties from Green Rooibos Tea help protect against premature aging.  You’ll receive two shades from Light, Medium, Tan or Dark to help you achieve your desired color.

Starbucks Brings Back The Pumpkin Spice Latte, And I'm Doing A Happy Dance!

But it's not what you think. I love me some Starbucks but their famous Pumpkin Spice Latte is not my thang, it's actually the only drink that my husband likes. (crazy, I know!) During this time he actually enjoys going to Starbucks with me. No eye-rolling or sulking in a corner while I have my deliciously tasty beverage all to myself. Nope. This time of year he's as happy as I am to pay the 'bucks a visit. Woot Woot!

Fall/Winter 2011 Trend Alert: Hiker Booties.

Where's the trail? Because these hiking boots are made for walking! They may not be suitable for a nature walks, but they sure are suited to fierce-up your wardrobe!

This utility chic inspired shoe is the trend this season.  A cross between a hiking boot and an ankle bootie, it features rugged details like d-rings and hiking laces, with soft lady-like touches. They're available in all different styles and come with various types of soles and heels to suit your personality. Who knew hiking boots could look so chic, right?

 What do you think? Are you liking the hiking boot trend?

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top photo: boutique 9 arael bootie.

MAC False Lashes Extreme Black Mascara Coming Soon.

Oh, if only our lashes would really look like that after applying mascara, right?  Well, MAC claims to have finally come up with the perfect formula to give us the false lash look without applying those pesky lashes, with their newest mascara False Lashes Extreme Black Mascara.

Intensely inky, this lightweight, innovative mousse-like formula saturates lashes in a carbon-black pigment that promises the deepest, darkest, richest look imaginable with full long-lasting coverage. Each stroke of the unique double-lush brush creates vixen volume and lift by filling in sparse lashes, magnifying and multiplying magnificently. Long-wearing polymers quickly coat from root to tip, keeping lashes supple and flexible – never brittle.

Alexa's Angels: Inspired Jewelry Designs. {Review & Giveaway}--CLOSED.

Jewelry should always make a girl feel special, but inspirational jewelry is exclusively designed to evoke true heartfelt emotions. Maybe that's why I fell in love with this Circle Heart Icon Necklace from Alexa's Angels. The message behind it states that Love Conquers All, and that is something I believe to my core.

About:

Alexa's Angels is a an inspirational jewelry line that has grown from selling necklaces, bracelets, angel pins, rings, and children's jewelry at art shows across the country, into a fashion-forward accessories company for people of all ages. Beth Lang is the Founder and CEO of Alexa's Angels and is a Colorado artist. Her company features 3 unique accessory lines offering gift options for loved ones.

How To Wear Your Fall Scarves.

Scarf season is upon us! Now that the weather is starting to cool down a bit, it's time to bust out those trendy scarves you've had hiding in the back of your closet all year long.

Scarves are such a great way to add a bit of color and spice to any outfit--and is one of my all-time favorite accessories to wear! If you're unsure of how to tie a scarf, or if you're tired of wearing your scarf the same ole' way, here's a great little illustration to help you find some options this fall.

L'Oreal Limited-Edition Project Runway Collection.

If you're a loyal fan like me you know that L'Oreal is no stranger to Project Runway. But next month, they will finally be releasing a cat-walk ready collection called Colors Take Flight designed by beauty guru and celebrity-makeup artist, Collier Strong, whom you may have seen on the show.

This collaboration comes in 4 different color palettes with lipstick, nail polish, blush, and eye shadow. The inspiration behind collection comes from exotic birds and feature bird-inspired names like the Charming Cockatoo, Watchful Owl, Audacious Amazon, and Sultry Raven!  Sounds fun, right?

Bows-N-Ties Make The Man.

I just love a man in a suit. There's nothing more appealing than a sharply dressed man with a tailored jacket and crisp trousers, nothing.  But dressing sharp is not just about finding the right suit. It's also in the small details-- like picking the right tie, or cuff link, and choosing right handkerchief that truly shows off a man's personal style.

Bows-N-Ties is the perfect place to find those small details to really make the difference. They have a FANTASTIC selection of ties, bow-ties, cuff links and more. I was really amazed at the endless variety of styles and colors they offer and even more at their pricing! (I don't think I saw a single tie over $25--with some even starting at just $9.90!)

Shoe Fetish Of The Week: B Brian Atwood.

 

Ladies, can we talk about the fabulosity of these shoes for a sec? I mean, really. I'm not even a fringe person but these babies have me practically salivating at the mouth!!

This gorgeous piece of footwear is the B Brian Atwood Tempesta suede fringe ankle bootie and it features tassel laces and metal plated platform and heel. It comes in a variety of colors, but I'm loving it in this suede grey. (saks.com)

What do you think--Love it or Hate it?

2011 Emmy Fashion Round-Up! {The Stand-Out & Let-Downs.}

A sea of red ladies ruled the red carpet last night at the 63rd annual prime-time Emmy awards. This hot color was in full force with celebrities like Kate Winslet, Lea Michele, Nina Dobrev, and Kerry Washington all wearing their fiercest red. But only one celebrity stole the show for me and that was Ms. Nina Dobrev!

I don't know who you are hun, but you looked BEYOND in this curve-hugging Donna Karen. Note to self: start catching up on all these youngins, because they're really making a name for themselves on the red carpet!

Update Your Fall Wardrobe With Bonmarché.

Plus size clothing has come a long way in recent years. Long gone are the days when having a voluptuous figure meant dressing in your Nana's moo-moos. Now stores like Bonmarché offer stylish easy to wear pieces for full-sized women!

 

Bonmarché is the UK's largest value retailer selling affordable quality womenswear in a wide range of sizes (12-24) to women over 45 years. Ranges include casual and formal separates, outerwear, swimwear, lingerie nightwear and accessories, all designed with a more full-sized figure in mind.

Back-To-School Shopping With T.J. Maxx/Marshalls.

 
A few days ago I hit up my local T.J. Maxx for some back to school bargains for my daughter. Although I bought most of her school wardrobe while I was in New York last month, I might be part of the 60% of moms who wait only a few short weeks to do their back-to-school shopping--because I completely underestimated the amount of clothes she needs for Kindergarten! (HA!)

The good news about shopping somewhere like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls is that they offer name brands and designer merchandise at 20-60% less! So you never have to worry about breaking the bank. It's like this: at off-price retailers a $19.99 backpack was made by a designer to sell for $40.00 or more, while at a discount retailer, a $19.99 backpack is made to sell at that price!

I was always one to think that shopping at T.J. Maxx or Marshalls meant getting a good deal, but wearing last seasons clothes--and that's just not the case! Their buyers work directly with designers right up until the last minute of every season to bring us the right fashion at the right time. Aisles are filled with this seasons fall must-haves and I was able to score this adorable pink belted cardigan for my daughter!

Rachel Zoe Spring 2012 Collection: For The Everyday Gal. { #NYFW }

 

Due to her pregnancy Mz. Zoe wasn't able to debut her collection during Fashion Week last year, but this year she showed up and delivered.  This is by far one of the most approachable collections I've seen yet, and I'm sooo head over heels for it!

It's fun /stylish /and sexy without being too over the top--making it easy for any woman to pull of. Sticking to her roots as a stylist she made wearable clothes that make you look effortlessly glamorous. This 30 piece collection was inspired by Bridget Bardot and included 70's inspired pieces, sharp tailored separates, and long flowy dresses that are very Zoe-like.

The Big 6 & Disney's Dare To Dream On Ice.

Someone is officially a big girl now!!! Arianna turned the big 6 yesterday--and I don't know whether to laugh or cry! It's a little bittersweet knowing that she's getting so big, and not so little anymore. Pretty soon she'll be going off to college and I'll be bawling my eyes out--rocking in a corner or somewhere. *sigh* C'est la vie. She'll always be my baby whether she likes it or not! ;)

Zac Posen Brings The Drama, Drama, Drama. {NYFW}

 

Zac Posen's Spring 2012 runway show not only marked his return to New York, but also his return to elegance. His collection was full of dramatic cocktail and evening wear that screamed of Old Hollywood Glamour, and I predict will definitely be guaranteeing him some fabulous red carpet moments come award season. His lady-like aesthetic included mermaid cuts, floor sweeping gowns, and lots and lots of bustiers.--Simply Gorgeous!

Which look is your favorite?

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Cool Finds: Hot Tot {Salon Quality Products For Kids.}

I'm always on the look-out for great hair products, especially for my 5 year old daughter who has long thick hair like her mama.--Poor thing.

So You can only imagine my excitement to hear about Hot Tot who not only carries a whole line of salon quality products for children, but also created with safe and organic ingredients!

About:

Hot Tot's formulas are made with individually selected ingredients, many of which are organic, to optimize the performance of every product. Our formulas were created with tots in mind and are gentle enough to be used on children with sensitive skin, cradle cap, eczema, and allergies.

Honor, Lela Rose, and Cynthia Rowley: 3 Ladies That Got It Right. {NYFW}

Honor designer Giovanna Randall stole the show at New York Fashion Week with her retro 60's glamour and windblown moments, (a la Marilyn Monroe) that pretty much left everyone enamored. The collection was simple and lady-like with precious cupcake dresses and delicate touches. Given that she's a fairly new designer--I can't wait to see what else she has in store.

We Will Never Forget.

 

It' s hard to believe it's been 10 years since the devastating attacks on our soil. Septemember 11, 2001 changed our lives forever. We lost close to 3000 family members and loved ones in a senseless act of terrorism on our country. 

I remember being in the middle of my History of Architecture exam when my professors cell phone rang. She excused herself to only come back a few minutes later and inform us a that a commuter plane had hit the World Trade Center. Everyone looked at each other, but just assumed it was a mere accident.

Popochos Giveaway: For Your Little Time-Tellers!--CLOSED.

 

Popochos (Colombian slang for "cool" or "sweet") are fun colorful watch covers that allow kids to add their own style and personality to silicone watches! They are proudly designed and produced in Italy and are meant to accompany these ever so popular sports watches.

Switching out the Popochos is easy--it simply snaps in and out of place, and gives your watch a completely different look each time! They come in an array of colors and designs for both boys and girls, and pack enough punch to add some serious flair to your little ones wardrobe!

Tadashi Shoji Runway Spring 2012. {NYFW}

(Frazer Harrison/Tadashi Shoji - Front Row - Spring 2012 Mercedes-Benz/Getty Images)

We might be gearing up for fall, but in the fashion world--it's all about Spring 2012. New York Fashion Week kicked off with a bang and showed us a sea of esteemed designers and their latest creations, but so far the standout for me has been Tadashi Shoji.

His spring 2012 collection was quintessential spring: Soft. Pretty. & Feminine. With the royal tulip as his inspiration the catwalk was filled with floral-inspired frocks, long ethereal gowns and soft romantic hair. Really. What's not to love?

My Life Changing Curveball.

 

There are only a few things in this world that are truly life changing--and having a baby is definitely one of them. When I found out I was pregnant I couldn't even wrap my head around what that meant. I don't think I'd ever been so scared, or excited, or emotional in my life! I'm pretty sure I asked the doctor about 10 times if they were absolutely sure, before it finally sunk in.

It's funny how life throws you these curve-balls and you think that you're not ready for them or that they're not meant for you--and then they happen, and not only do they change your life, but make it 10 times better! (What do we know anyway?!)

2011 Fashion's Night Out Limited-Edition Collections.

Tomorrow Fashion's Night Out officially kicks off fashion week! But in case you don't know what the whole hoopla's about--it's basically an initiative that was conceived in 2009 by Vogue's Ex Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour and the Council of Fashion Designers of America as a way to jump start the economy and help out retailers by getting shoppers to buy clothing, shoes, and accessories at full price. Plus celebrate fashion by organizing fun-filled events!

Each year a few designers and brands release limited-edition collections to celebrate the occasion. Here are just a few:

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kicks Off Tomorrow!

All fashion hell will break loose tomorrow for Mercedes-Benz Spring 2012 Fashion Week!! I would love to be there to see it--but what can I say, mommy duty calls.

I actually did get invites to a few events this year, but nothing big, so it wasn't hard turning it down---if Oscar de la Renta calls on the other hand---I'll be there first thing in the morning!

While I wait for that phone call, I will be showing you lovelies some inside scoop from the famous tents thanks to being selected as a Fashion Week Insider for Glam.com! If there's a collection that's to die for, trust me--I'll let you ladies know! So excited!

What collection are you dying to see?

My FIRST Zara Order Online!!!!!! Woo-hoo!!

You don't know how giddy I am right now to have placed my FIRST online order from Zara.com!!! Their e-commerce site officially launches tomorrow September 7th, but I got a special invite to shop one day early and get an exclusive online preview through their Dear America campaign!

I picked out a few things for myself and my daughter, although I am a little bummed that both the handbag and children's coat I've been eyeing weren't available online, I still got some some pretty fantastic stuff for fall/winter wardrobe!

My Tide Challenge.

Laundry time is always a mission at my house. Everyone has different needs, which means completely different detergents -- from keeping my husbands shirts nice and clean, to trying to remove God-knows-what stains from my daughter's jeans, and of course all my delicate clothes that need extra care. It's exhausting!

Sheer Cover Mineral Foundation: For A More Natural You!

I've always been a liquid foundation type of gal, but I've been secretly eyeing mineral make-up for quite some time now. So I finally jumped ship and tried Sheer Cover's Mineral Foundation! Here's what I thought...

About:

• Contains 100% pure minerals with NO oils, perfumes, dyes or talcs, so it's gentle and non-irritating - even for sensitive skin.
• True Shade Technology™ ensures that the powders blend in with your skin tone for a perfect color match.
• Feels light, allows the skin to breathe and goes beyond just covering up - it actually deflects light away from flaws.
• Contains anti-oxidants designed to protect your skin from damaging free radicals. keeping it natural and healthy.
• Helps filter the sun's harmful rays and works as a natural sunscreen. It protects against the visible signs of premature aging with SPF 15.

Why Labor Day Has A Special Place In My Heart.

To most this day celebrates hard work and day off to BBQ or go to the beach--but for me it means a little more because 7 years ago I met my husband on Labor Day! This holiday will always hold a special place in our hearts because not only did it bring us together, but it literally changed our lives forever. ♥

If you want to read more about how he and I met, I wrote a post awhile back entitled  'I met him at The Rusty Pelican' and you are more than welcome to read it! :)

Have a safe and happy Labor Day everyone!

4 Easy Ways To Warm Up Your Home For Fall.

I love the changing of the seasons. Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago I really got to experience what every season entails, and the beauty that comes with each one. Living in Florida however there's only one season--SUMMER. (Or what just always feels like summer.) And since fall is my favorite time of the year I'm eager to celebrate it's arrival by making small changes around my home!

Here are my 4 easy tips for fall decorating:

1. Dress Up Your Mantle.

Fall decor doesn't have to be theme-y. By incorporating the colors and textures of the season you can get the same effect. This mantle is the perfect example of evoking autumn without using pumpkins or leaves.

Celeb Looks--Emma, Madonna, Kim, Diane, and SJP. {Yay or Nay?}

Happy Sunday Lovelies! Let's celebrate the Labor Day weekend with a little celebrity fashion, shall we?

This week it seemed that every celebrity decided to turn it out, so no bad outfits really (except for one that pretty makes up for the lack of bad fashion...you'll see what I mean.)

Diane Kruger is one to never shy away from fashion--she's always up for a fashion risk, which sometimes leaves her on my worst dressed list. This week however, she worked that red carpet in this GOR-GEOUS Ellie Saab gown.

My Verdict: Yay

Too Pretty For Homework? Excuse Me??!!

"I'm too pretty for homework, so my brother has to do it for me." oooh, I wish my daughter would say something like that to me, so I can knock some sense into that pretty little head!

If you haven't heard by now JCPenney pulled this sweatshirt from their online store, (which also included "Who has time for homework when when there's a new Justin Bieber album out? She'll love this tee that's just as cute and sassy as she is." in the description) once it's started buzzing around the internet.

I mean come-on, I get it. It's suppose to be funny, but it's not. If you have a daughter like me you understand that you want her to grow up with some self-respect and self-worth, and not be looked at as a joke or a future bimbo. This shirt is the exact opposite of what we should be teaching our daughters. Am I right?

Get Star-Quality Style On A Budget.

Labor day weekend is here, which means summer is winding down and fall fashion is on the horizon! Exciting as that is, it may leave some us wondering how we're going to afford a whole new wardrobe on such a tight budget?

Well, the good news is that fashion doesn't have to mean high price tags or designer labels. Fashion can be just as fun and stylish through stores like Kmart that offer quality items at bargain prices!

Last year they completely blew my mind when they stepped up their fashion game and provided us with drool-worthy items, like this military pea coat, remember? This year they're back with even more affordable fashions that offer star-quality style, even for the trendiest of fashionistas!

 

A Fab Coat & Boots Is All A Girl Needs.

My favorite outfits are always the simple, casual, everyday looks that maybe would never get featured on the cover of a major fashion magazine, but are still stylish and chic in their own right.

Kourtney Kardashian wore the perfect example of that with her Bec & Bridge Bastille Jacket and two-tone Chanel Riding Boots. Don't you love?

Without the jacket and boots she would just be wearing a plain ol' white tee and leggings, (aka: the mom uniform), but add a fab coat and boots and you have a outfit worth envying!

What do you think lovelies, do you agree??

FYI: For more affordable alternatives to Kourtney's oufit check out: Contrast Trim Utility Jacket from Witchery and the Corso Como Richmond Riding Boots.