A Toast To 2012.

2012 is just a few hours away!

May this new year bring you peace, love, health, and much happiness. May we be able to take the good, and forgive the bad. But most of all, may all our wishes come true in the new year.

Happy 2012, everybody!!

Cheers,

Jenny

My Style Icons Of 2011.

Oh man. Picking my favorite style icons for 2011 wasn't easy! There were so many great fashion moments this year, and so many women with amazing fashion sense--I could really make an never ending list! So instead I decided to go with my instincts, and choose 2 women that instantly came to mind.

First up, Emma Stone.

I can go on and on about my girl crush on Emma, but what I like most is her daring sense of style on the red carpet. She's not afraid not be different, nor is she afraid to try new things. She chooses bold fashion choices that are often fashion forward and interesting. Even when so called "fashion experts" say that gingers should shy away from certain looks--she breaks the mold and proves that you can wear whatever you want as long as it makes you feel good.

Love her. ♥

Next comes Olivia Palermo! The queen of layering and master of mixing high and low fashion, this chick's flair for fashion cannot be denied. I adore her chic street style and classic meets bohemian look. She has been one of my biggest inspirations this year to not be afraid to mix things up a bit. Oh, and in case you didn't know, Olivia started her own style blog a few months ago showcasing her outfits and offering up tips and advice. Check it out if you're a fan.

Who are your style icons of 2011?

A Super Quick & Easy Updo For NYE! {Video}

Holy Moly can you believe 2012 is right at our doorstep? If you got plans to ring in the new year all gussied up, you might be looking for a fabulous updo or new hair style to try--well ladies, I found the perfect one courtesy of Refinery29!

I don't know about you, but I SUCK at updo's. I always end up leaving my hair down because I can never get the hair style right, but this look is so quick and easy--even I can do it!! It takes less than a minute (I'm not joking) and is perfect to celebrate the new year. Let me know what you think!

Sneak Peek: H&M Spring Looks.

For those of you who are counting the days till Spring, H&M put together a video of their key spring looks styled by their head of design, Ann-Sofie Johansson--to give us a taste of what they have in store.



It looks like we can expect plenty of bright pinks and greens, classic blazers, and pretty florals.

What do you think?

Celeb Looks: Yay or Nay? (Beyonce, Nicole R, Paula, Nicole S, Sandra)

How fierce does Mama B. look in her animal print leggings, leather jacket and platform booties? She sure isn't letting pregnancy slow down her fashion game!

My verdict: Yay.

Nicole Scherzinger wore this peekaboo turtleneck mini, studded pumps, and feather bracelet (?), to the finale of X-factor. Then she topped off her look with a modified mohawk updo. 

I have no words.

My Verdict: Nay

Paula Patton wore a sequined Moschino mini with a leather moto jacket and killer heels to promote her new movie in NYC. 

I think she looks fabulous from head-to-toe!

My Verdict: Yay

Nicole Richie has come a long way from her Paris Hilton days, hasn't she? She wore some indigo jeans, faux fur coat & scarf, and of course her signature cat-eye glasses while running errands.

Love it.

My Verdict: Yay

Sandra Bullock wore a cobalt blue draped dress and pendant necklace to the Jay Leno show. I love Sandy, but this outfit is all wrong! She can do so much better.

My Verdict: Nay

photos: via

Unconventional Christmas.

Our Christmases have always been filled with customary gatherings and family traditions, but this year we were thrown a little for a loop when our Christmas eve and Christmas Day plans were changed in a moments notice.

My in-laws had a few emergencies that kept them from coming over to celebrate Christmas in our new home, so we ended up celebrating the holiday the unconventional way. For the first time ever--I didn't cook a Christmas Eve dinner. Instead we headed out to a restaurant and had a quiet dinner for three. It wasn't what I I was expecting to be doing on Christmas Eve, but I gotta say that I kinda loved it. The food was delish and no clean-up afterwards! Plus I got to spend one-on-one time with the 2 people I care most about in this world. What better way to celebrate Christmas Eve? After stuffing our faces we headed out for a late movie and made it home just in time to bake Santa his cookies and call it a night.

Christmas morning was spent fully enjoying my daughter face light up as she opened every present. Seeing her happy makes all the running around and late night wrapping worth it. Even though the preparations take weeks and the unwrapping just takes just a few moments--it's all worth it in the end. Santa came, and must have thought we were very good this year, because we were all very happy with the presents he left.

Then, after all the gifts were open we made our way into the city to see my husband's family. Hey, if they couldn't come to us--we'd go to them, right? And I'm glad we did, because what an awesome day we had! There's nothing better than laughing, eating, and spending time with people you love. ♥

How did you spend your holiday weekend?

Happy Holidays, From Me To You.

Hi friends! I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a very safe and very happy holiday! It doesn't matter if you've been naughty or nice, you deserve nothing but the best for all the constant love and support. ♥

xoxo,

Jenny

Sneak Peek: Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion Line. {And Dry Shampoo Review}.

Get ready for some gorgeous hair in 2012 ladies! Suave is introducing a Keratin Infusion line in early 2012  that features salon-inspired products that smooths out your hair and deliver the benefits of keratin at home. (And you know that with Suave prices, they will most certainly fit in your budget too!)

Say good-bye to frizzy, unmanageable hair with the NEW Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion line. Discover the transformational power of this brand new salon-inspired range of products formulated to transform hair into sleek, smooth perfection. Formulated with unique Keralock Technology, these breakthrough products condition hair and make it easier to style. Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion is proven to work as well as top salon brands, so now you can get all the benefits of keratin at home!

I was sent the Keratin Infusion Dry Shampoo to try, and I'm happy to report that I absolutely loved it!! Having thick frizzy wavy hair I frequently use dry shampoo in between washes so I can maintain my hair without drying it out. So needless to say, I was anxious to see how this would work out.

One thing that you will notice right off the bat is that, unlike many other dry shampoos in the market, it smells good!! Not too overpowering or anything, but nice and fresh. This is a big one for me because I always like my hair to smell good. I can't stand products that smells bad--no matter how great it makes your hair look.

The second thing is that it sprays on clear. No powder-looking residue that you have work into your roots. You simply spray 8 to 10 inches away and it quickly absorbs any oil you have when you brush through.

And the third thing is that it completely refreshes my hair. Everyone can tell when you haven't washed your hair in a few days because it's dull, limp, and oily and this completely just wipes that out. Your hair comes out looking smooth and shiny and just like you just washed it.

I'm absolutely blown away that $5 bottle has worked better on my hair than the pricey salon ones. I highly recommend it if you're in the market for a dry shampoo!

The Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion line will launch January/February 2012, but drugstore.com already has a few products in stock including the dry shampoo if you want to try it out and let me know what you think!

La Redoute Kids: French Style Made Easy.

Some of you may already be familiar with french fashion retailer La Redoute for their affordable women and men's fashions, but did you know they also sell adorable children's clothes too?

The kids clothes at La Redoute offer a wide selection of products and brands that are not only trendy and stylish, but also at an affrodable price range that parents will love!

If you're tired of basic kidswear with no flair, then definitely check out this European-chic retailer which offers up plenty of options for your kiddos.

*This is a featured post by La Redoute.

Splurge Vs. Steal: Camel Coat.

I'm such a sucker for a camel coat! I love them in all shapes and sizes, so when I saw this Covington Peacoat on my trip to Sears, I squealed with delight--but then when I saw the price tag I had to squeal even more! Originally it was priced at $160 and it was now priced at $50!! What a deal!

What I liked about it was that it has a nice classic wool structure similar to Marc Jacobs double-breasted coat. ($650)

And the details like the slit pockets and hooded collar reminded me of Mackage Ashley Rib-Trim Wool Coat. ($670)

It's a good combination of both without the hefty price tags and with sharp features that makes it stand-out on it's own. Love it!


Disclosure: No monetary compensation was provided by Sears or Glam Media for this post, but a gift card was provided for review purposes. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Sears

Sneak Peek: Iris Apfel for MAC 2012 Collection.

Ready to see who MAC is collaborating with next? It's none other than style guru and fashion legend Iris Apfel! This collection is vibrant and bold just like the former interior designer and fashion icon.

A colour collection inspired by a rare bird who has always been ahead of her time, Mrs. Iris Apfel. Subject of her own exhibit at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and larger-than-life star, Apfel boldly mixed flea market finds with haute couture decades before doing it was considered de rigueur. M·A·C presents Lipsticks, Beauty Powder and Eye Shadows with as much fabulous flair and joie de vivre as the woman who helped create it.

MAC and Iris Apfel Lipsticks

Pink Pigeon - matte bright pink

Scarlet Ibis - matte bright orange-red

Party Parrot - matte bright red-pink

Flamingo - lustre bright coral

Morange - loudmouth orange

 

 MAC and Iris Apfel Nail Lacquer

Oriele Orange - bright orange-coral

Toco Toucan - bright blue-fuchsia

Sandpiper - creamy pale stone beige

 

 MAC and Iris Apfel Eyeshadow

Silver Gull - blue gray hue with sparkle

Robins Egg - mid tone teal

Early Bird - bright coral

Diamond Dove - gray-brown

 

 MAC and Iris Apfel Lip Pencil

Entertain Me - clearly orange

Embrace Me - vivid pinkish fuchsia

Redd - red

The Iris Apfel for MAC collection will be available January 5th, 2012.

Things That Make Me Feel Confident & Chic.

I think women in general struggle with self confidence, don't you? Society puts these unrealistic expectations on what's beautiful, which makes us doubt our own beauty and inner strength. Luckily, as we get older some of these feelings subside and we're finally able to come into our own.

Still, feeling sexy and confident doesn't come easy for most of us. Some days we just feel blah. And on those days, I reach for things that instantly make me confident and chic. In my case, that's accessories.

I never underestimate the power of some good sunnies, a chic scarf, a cute hat, or some stylish shoes and jewelry. No matter if I'm having a bad hair day, or have bags under my eyes the size of Texas! A quick stylish accessory will remedy that in no time. Just seeing myself put together puts a little pep in my step, and gives me just that little boost of confidence I need to make me feel good about myself.

With that being said, no woman can ever have too many accessories. So if you're looking to add some fashionable pieces to your wardrobe--perhaps try some pieces from a new line created by a woman who knows a thing or two about being sexy and confident, Ms. Sofia Vergara!

Her new Kmart line is designed with real women in mind and is especially made to make us feel confident and beautiful.

Some of my favorites for her collection include:

 link necklace gold and hematite / heat three buckle boot

fondue platform pump / chain shoulder bag

triple wire hoop earrings / cuff bracelet hinged gold cast

YOU ARE A WOMAN. SO DRESS LIKE A WOMAN. SOFIA VERGARA'S NEW LINE IS EXCLUSIVELY AT KMART.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Kmart via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Kmart.

Santa Scammed.

Like most of you I've been spending any free time I have in shopping malls and other stores trying to finalize my never-ending Christmas list. Well last week, we were in the midst of our holiday shopping when my daughter spotted the big man himself--Santa.

Now, just so you know, we had been dodging and strategically maneuvering around stores just so we could we purposely avoid the jolly old man. Not because we're cruel mean grinches, but because we had planned on taking her this week to see Santa at Macy's Santaland to get our annual Christmas picture.

But since my daughter was delighted to see him anyway we thought, why not. I whipped out my camera, but before I could take I picture--I was told by the elf that I couldn't take pictures with my camera. Um, WHAT?? Since when can you NOT take pictures of your child with Santa! She then informed me that if I wanted any pictures taken, then I would have to buy their package. Seriously??

I had no intentions of buying their package, especially since we were taking her in a few days to Manhattan to get her pictures taken. So I rolled my eyes politely declined having her picture taken and went about our way.

A few days later I brought up Santaland to Arianna telling her that we were going to go have her pictures taken with Santa soon, and she looked at me like I was crazy! She told me that she had already seen Santa and there was no need to see him again. (Oh-no!) After trying my best to persuade her, I realized that her happiness was more important that some stupid picture. So I dropped it. (I guess I should've left the elf take the picture after all, I thought.)

Then on a whim my in-laws decided they wanted to go to the Woodbury Commons Outlets yesterday, and guess who we spotted spreading some holiday joy?!

SANTA!!! Yesss!! I finally got a picture of her and Santa!! Haha. Oh Well. I guess this Santa picture will have to do for this year...  :)

Last Minute Gift Guide For Panicked Shoppers.

I don't want to alarm you, but there are only 6 days left till Christmas!! If you haven't crossed everyone off your list yet, you might be a little stressed right about now. Don't worry, I'm on the same boat. We just moved 2 weeks ago, and that has left me scrambling for last minute gifts, which typically would have been taken care of weeks ago!

I think our best bet would be to go to a one-stop-shop like JCPenney to find everything we need for everyone left on our list. As a matter of fact, I found these items that would make perfect gifts for men, women, and children.

1. Nicole Miller Tablet Case-$19.99

2. American Living Button Mock Sweater-$29.99

3. Liz Claiborne Rose Gold Watch-$41.25

4. Girls Faux Fur Critter Hat-$9.99

5. Apple Charging Station-$79.99

6. Sky Patrol Helicopter-$19.99

7. Hello Kitty Digital Camera-$29.99

8. Iron Man Spectrum Watch-$26.24

And if you still need additional ideas, check out JCPenney Last Minute Shopping Guide, which offers even more options for your holiday shopping.

JCPenney Don't Panic Last Minute Shopping Guide

Are you a last-minute shopper? 

How do you plan on tackling what's left of your holiday list?

Disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of jcpenney and received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

I Have The New FB Timeline! Do You?

 

Have you heard about Facebook's new profile feature called Timeline? I changed my personal fb to reflect it, and I gotta say that I'm kinda loving it! It's a cross between a visual blog and an online scrapbook. It shows your entire story from your start on Facebook.

Rediscover old status updates, photos, videos, and other things you've forgotten about by clicking through your timeline. Plus you can personalize your profile by choosing a cover photo which I like, but the dimensions of the frame is awkward and makes it a little difficult to find a photo that looks good.

If you want to try it out, Facebook's Timeline is available now to everyone. Once you opt-in you can either publish it immediately or have 7 days to change or delete anything that you don't want to show on your profile. After 7 days it will be published automatically.

Take a look at it and let me know if you love it or hate it!

Somebody's Got A New Wool Coat!

The other day I stumbled into Sears and found this insanely cute wool coat for Arianna! The original price was $70 and I got it for $25--what a steal, right?!!

It kind of reminds me of J.Crew's Majesty Peacoat, except with a friendlier price tag of course. It was the only one left and it was just her size. I couldn't believe it--that never happens to me!

I haven't gone in a Sears in YEARS, but I was pleasantly surprised with some of their options, and I actually bought myself a little somethin' somethin' (which I'll post about later) and some great winter options for Arianna.

P.S. If you're looking for kids coats they have an amazing sale going on right now. (I'm talkin' 50-70% off people!!)

Do you shop at Sears? What was your latest buy?

Holiday Gift Idea For The Cook: Giada De Laurentiis For Target.

I'm not Italian, but my love of pasta and all things Italian would have you fooled. I love trying out new recipes and picking up tips from chef's like Giada De Laurentiis. Her show is one of my favorites to watch, so I was super excited to hear about her exclusive collection with Target!

Her line features beautifully designed kitchen tools that would be a perfect holiday gift for the kitchen lover or aspiring chef on your list. Simple and stylish--just like her, these everyday essentials make cooking look good!

One of my favorites from her collection is the 3pc bowl set. Not only do I love the color, but there's so much use for them--I practically use them on a daily basis! The bowls are deep which are perfect for mixing, and the spout makes it easy for pouring. ( Perfect for our Sunday pancakes), plus it has a non-slip bottom that keeps the bowl from sliding all over the counter which is great for when my daughter wants to help me bake gingerbread cookies or other holiday treats.

I really enjoyed using Giada's Collection for my everyday use and even for some holiday entertaining, and I know you will to! From her ceramic cookware to ground coffee and specialty foods--everything is wonderfully made with a simple, yet modern twist.

And because I'm such a coffee lover, I thought I'd share this great spiced coffee recipe, that's perfect for the holidays. Enjoy!

Spiced Coffee with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Recipe Courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp ground allspice
• ¼ tsp of ground cinnamon, plus more for dusting
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup brewed Giada De Laurentiis for Target Giada Blend Coffee
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp confectioners’ sugar

1. In a small sauce pan combine the granulated sugar and ½ cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat and reduce heat to low.
2. Add allspice, cinnamon and ginger. Simmer for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved.
3. Take the pan off the heat and set aside.
4. In a heat proof pitcher or measuring cup add the boiling water to the coffee /espresso. Divide it among four 6 to 8 oz cups.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of the spiced syrup to each cup and stir to combine.
6. Using an electric mixer with a whisk attachment beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add confectioners’ sugar and continue to beat until stiff.
7. Top each with a dollop of whipped cream – dust with cinnamon and add cinnamon stick.
Yield: 4 servings/ 4 (6-8 oz) cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes

Disclosure: I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Giada De Laurentiis for Target and received product samples to facilitate my review.

Get Yourself A Free Pair Of Crocs--I Did!

Late last night I got wind of this crazy deal Crocs is having!  To be honest, I haven't been a Crocs fan till recently. During the summer I was given the Carlie Flat in Oyster/Mango and not only are they super cute and comfortable, but I always, always get compliments when wearing them. Then this fall I got a sneak peek of their fall/winter style with their Fuzzy Bootie and they have totally changed my opinion of Crocs completely.

Ok, so back to the deal!

Today is the LAST day you can take advantage of their Buy One Get One Free sale. The sale is only good on sale items, which means you're getting a deal on top of another deal!! I took the opportunity to cross off someone on my Christmas list AND score myself the Wiona Leopard Flat for FREE!!!! Woot! Woot!

I love this kind of Christmas shopping!  :)

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Stylish Stocking Stuffers. {Under $50}

1. Live Colorfully Borough Coasters. ($20)
2. TB Mousepad ($20)
3. Fifth Avenue Mug ($35)
4. Rubber Wood Grain iPhone Case ($15)
5. Lulu Frost Deco Bangle ($45)
6. Gold Playing Cards ($18)
7. Signature Tory Candle ($45)
8. Fleece Lined Lodge Scuffs ($48)
9. Paintbucket Cosmetic Bag ($48)
10. Double Layer Pendant Necklace ($38)
11. Moxie Flats ($39)
12. Leather Flask ($42.50)
13. Peachtree Black Watch ($50)
14. Saffiano Printed iPhone Case ($50)

Cool Finds: The Cutest (And Littlest) Printer, Ever!

I just discovered Little Printer by BERG Cloud and just had to share! This little-bitty printer syncs up with your smartphone and collects info to print out as a mini newspaper for you!

Bringing you news, puzzles, and this month's birthday reminders this cute will keep you up-to-date on anything you need, right at the palm of your hand.

I wonder if it can print out coupons too? Cuz that would be AWESOME! The only downside is that it doesn't come out til 2012, so we can't put it on my Christmas Wish-List.  :(

Here's a little vid to see it in action.


Hello Little Printer, available 2012 from BERG on Vimeo.