11.29.2012

"ILY COUTURE Holiday Style Guide"









Polka Dot Sweater (Old Navy), Skinny Jeans (Old Navy), Flats (Payless ShoeSource), Handbag (Zara), Watch Michael Kors via (ebay), Basilissa Pave Bracelet, and Devi Bangles (Stella & Dot).


As a stay at home Mom, who says that I can't look stylish when running around town doing errands. So, I kept it simple by buying this Basilissa Pave Bracelet from ILY COUTURE, although I only own one piece of jewelry from ILY COUTURE it's probably one of my favorite pieces of jewelry that I own.  I love to style my bracelet several different ways and one of favorites is when I pair it with my Devi Bangles from Stella & Dot, which are no longer available.  This fits my look because I'm still able to look stylish and classy without looking over the top.     

Now guys here comes the fun part, I need your help, I'm asking all of my readers and followers to enter the ILY COUTURE Holiday Style Guide Contest on Instagram and check out how they style their favorites.  

Love your ILY COUTURE Jewelry?  Show us how you wear it!  Share your photo on Instagram with the tag #ILYCOUTUREHOLIDAY for a chance to win a Basilissa necklace or bracelet.  Please make sure that you use the tag #ILYCOUTUREHOLIDAY in order to be seen.  Also, this contest is not about who has the most likes or comments on their photo, but simply which photo catches ILY COUTURE'S eye.  

Also, the contest runs Monday, November 26 through Monday, December 10 (at 6:00 MST).  The winners will be announced on December 12.

 Have fun styling everyone and good luck!!

 

11.28.2012

Hot Pink Wednesday








Hot Pink Sweater (Old Navy), Wide Leg Jeans Cookie Johnson via (Hautelook), Scarf (Old Navy), Brown Pumps (Nine West), Tote Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene Canvas Neverfull via (Louis Vuitton), Watch Michael Kors via (ebay), and Gold Pave Chain Link Bracelet via (Derng).


Happy Hump Day Everyone!  I hope you've had a good day and your week has been going just as well thus far.  For me, today was very productive because my husband has been on vacation this week and we were able to get a lot of things done around our house, which will put us closer to getting our house ready to be put on the market.  YEAH!!

So, for my outfit today I thought I would keep it simple be wearing a hot pink sweater, and I did something a little different by adding a splash of color in my scarf.  For my jeans I chose a pair of wide leg dark denim jeans, brown pumps, my Louis Vuitton tote, and gold accessories.


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11.27.2012

Crest 3D Whitestrips



Crest 3D Whitestrips


I joined Influenster a couple of months ago and I had totally forgotten them until I received an email about taking a quick survey about Crest and their products.  For those of you who never heard about Influenster, it's a free to join community of invited trendsetters who give opinions of products and experiences.  Influenster creates links between brands and members to reward participation and influence future products. 

So, I was pleasantly surprised when I received an email asking me to retake in a quick survey about Crest products.  I took the survey and I was notified that was chosen to try Crest 3D Whitestrips.  I've tried Crest Whitestrips in the past and loved them, so I was excited to see if these whitestrips were just as good.  I enjoyed using these Crest 3D Whitestrips because I got a chance to see my teeth transform in front of my eyes.  I also did not have any problems using the strips and I would definitely recommend them to my friends and family members.  I look forward to using for of Crest's products in the future.  Also, don't forget "If You're Not Whitening, You're Yellowing".

Here are a few photos of my before and after:



Before Crest 3D Whitestrips

After Crest 3D Whitestrips


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I received this complimentary product for this review by Influenster, and all of my opinions were my own.

11.26.2012

We're Moving


For those of you who are following me know that my family and I will be relocating to Maryland at the beginning of the next year.  This will be our fourth move since my husband's medical school days and also this will be our first home to get sold along with our first professional move, yeah, no U'Haul.  However, I've heard so many stories about moving and/or relocating, advice on how I should sell my home and buying or renting another home, I'm confused.  All, I know is my house here in Indiana has to be sold, so we can purchase another home in Maryland because we don't want to be paying on two mortgages.  DECISIONS, DECISIONS, DECISIONS!!

This experience thus far has been mind boggling, I didn't know what to expect once we decided to relocate, because we always moved from an apartment to apartment, and that's fairly simple.  I think I believed that the packing elves were going to magically appear and do the majority of the packing, repainting and carpet cleaning for me:)  By God's grace I have faith that everything will work out and our house here in Indiana will sale, our move will be uneventful, and we will find a home that we love in Maryland.

Moving can be difficult at times what do you do so that you won't get burned out or frustrated when having to relocate?


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11.25.2012

Birchbox Give


It's that time of the month again, my November Birchbox has come in the mail and I'm excited to show you what was in this month's box.  If your new the Birchbox, it's the best way to way to discover new grooming products from high-end brands, get expert advice, buy new favorites and earn points with every purchase.

This month's box is all about giving:  giving thanks, giving back, and of course giving treats.  Inside, there are exciting products that you will love.  Instead of the usual tissue wrapping, a reusable gift envelope was included.  Fill it with treat- beauty product, or perhaps a cute bauble- and give it to someone special.

Also, this month Birchbox is supporting The Art of Elysium, a non-profit that encourages actors, artists, designers and musicians to dedicate their time and talent to children who are battling various medical conditions.  Learn more and shop gift picks from the Art of Elysium's celebrity supporters at birchbox.com/TheArtofElysium.

These are the beauty products that were included in my Birchbox this month:


 November Birchbox


 Masqueology Revitalizing Eye

Under-Eye Gel Masks will de-puff and brighten your eye area with hydrolyzed collagen, adenosine, and marine actives.


 Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer & MCMC Fragrances Phoenix

Stila-add a touch of the luminescent fluid to your cheekbones or décolletage, or mix with your foundation for an all-over glow.  MCMC Fragrance Phoenix An exclusive sample of this warm feminine scent.


Masqueology Masque Cleanse & 7D Moisture Cream

Masqueology Masque Cleanse Who needs champagne when you have this buddy face wash?  It whacks away debris to leave skin pure and clean (cue celebration).  Masqueology 7D Moisture Cream Use this patented cream day and night to increase production of vitamin D and stimulate collagen.


Kiehl's Creme de Corps

Bestselling cream- the buttery formula heals dry skin with rich cocoa butter and sesame seed oil.




Disclaimer...all of my information was taken from Birchbox.com nor am I a spokesperson of Birchbox...

11.22.2012

I'm Thankful For...


In the spirit of Thanksgiving there are so many things to be thankful for and here are a few of mine...

I'm thankful for...

-  a great husband who loves me,
-  two healthy sons,
-  my little English Toy Spaniel Sir,
-  my extended family,
-  husband's current job, and also his new job that he will be starting in February,
-  good health, and
-  another year of life...


What are you things in your life are you thankful for?  


Happy Thanksgiving!!


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11.21.2012

Hot Pink Lips








Pink Lips Top Kirna Zabete via (Target), Black Skinny Jeans (Old Navy), Black Boots (Nine West), Watch Michael Kors via (Nordstrom), Chain Bracelets TheWayWeAre Shop via (ebay), Renegade Cluster Bracelet via (Stella & Dot), and Tote Louis Luitton Damier Geant Canvas via (Saks Fifth Avenue).



My outfit today was really fun putting together and wearing.  While at Target, I saw this really fun Pink Lip Top hanging on one of their clearance racks, at first I thought this is definitely different and so not me, but decided to step outside the box and purchase it.  Also, I noticed while looking at the top that it was from one of their designer collaborations, Kirna Zabete.  So, I decided to pair my shirt with black skinny jeans, tall black jeans, my Louis Vuitton tote, and black and silver accessories.


When you a purchase a fun article of clothing (i.e. a shirt, skirt, or dress), how do you style yours?


Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!
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11.19.2012

A Painter's Muse











Peplum Top (Forever 21), Pleated Skirt Kirna & Zabete via (Target), Tights (TJ Maxx), Black Pumps Joan & David via (Nordstrom), Tote Chanel (Saks Fifth Avenue),  Flower Pin (Forever 21), and Watch Michael Kors via (ebay).



For my outfit today I decided to wear a pleated skirt I purchased recently on sale at Target.   When I first saw this skirt on the clearance rack I fell immediately in love with the beautiful colors and pleats on it, also it helped that it was only $11.  After I returned home I couldn't wait to start styling my new skirt, I already had in my mind what I wanted to wear with it, I just had to start pulling out my tops and begin my magic.

I decided to pair my pleated skirt with a berry colored peplum top, black tights and pumps, my Chanel handbag, and gold watch.


Do you get excited about styling your clothes after you've made your purchase?


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11.15.2012

It's a Plaid Kinda Day...









Plaid Flannel Shirt (Old Navy), Pink Long Sleeved Shirt (H&M), Totally Green Skinny Jeans (JC Penney), Toms "Classic" Woolen Slip on via (Nordstrom), Handbag Furla via (TJ Maxx), Watch Fossil Boyfriend Stainless Steel Watch via (Fossil),  and Gold Chain Bracelet & Silver Textured Chain Bracelet TheWayWeAre via (etsy).


The weather here in Indiana has officially turned cold to freezing inside, so I've decided to totally revamp my daily wardrobe, as I get older I'm choosing warmth over fashion.  (wink, wink)  Also, it helps that I'm a stay at home Mom, so I don't have to get to dress up everyday, but I do miss wearing my cute summer dresses and skirts, but I've got to stay warm.

Since I'm trying to stay warm, I have falling in love with these plaid flannel shirts, their comfortable, warm and I'm able to layer them and still look cute while I'm out running errands.  I decided to pair my flannel shirt with a pink long sleeved shirt, colored jeans, my blue woolen Toms, my Furla, and gold & silver accessories.


Do you own a flannel shirt?  If so, how do you style yours?  If you don't own a plaid flannel shirt, you've got to try one, and show me how you styled yours.



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11.14.2012

Be Still My Heart













Toggle Coat (New York & Company), Scarf Burberry via (Burberry), Heart Sweater (J Crew Outlet), Bootcut Jeans MNG for Mango via (JC Penney), Brown Tall Boots (Nine West), Louis Vuitton Damier Ebene Neverfull via (Saks Fifth Avenue), Gold Watch Michael Kors via (ebay), and Basilissa Pave Bracelet (Ily Couture).



So today I wanted to wear this blue sweater I picked up at a J Crew Outlet Store while my husband and I were in Maryland several weeks.  I've seen this particular sweater on other bloggers and I really liked it, but I couldn't find it on line or in store, so when I saw it at an Outlet Mall in Maryland I knew I had to have it.  I love the oversize heart on the sweater, and I now own several sweaters and shirts with hearts on them I noticed.  The fashion trends are amazing and so much fun.

I decided to pair my sweater with bootcut jeans, a pair of brown boots, my Louis Vuitton Neverfull, and gold accessories.



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11.13.2012

My JC Penney Shopping Deals...



Totally Green Arizona Jeans Co. Super Skinny Jeans

Pink Dot Arizona Jeans Co Super Skinny Jeans

Arizona Jean Co. Narrow Leg & Slender Fit Super Skinny Jeans



A couple of weeks ago I received a JC Penney catalog in the mail and in the catalog were a couple items that caught my attention.  One of the items were these colored skinny jeans by Arizona Jeans Co., and they came in several different colors.  So, I decided to make a trip to JC Penney's to check them out.  However, when I got there I couldn't find them but, eventually I located them in the Junior Department, no problem right?

So, I picked up a pair to quickly try on, and I must say that I was presently surprised because not only did they fit, but they were just the right length on me.  Normally, I can't wear regulars because their not long enough, but these jeans were just the right length on me.  Plus, they were only a whopping $17 per pair.  Are you serious?  Score!!  So, of course I left the store with two pair, now I can't wait to style them:)

When you find a great deal/or deals are you anxious to tell others of your good deal or do you keep it to yourself? 


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11.12.2012

A Mom's Choice


My post today is something that has been weighing heavy on my heart, making the right choices that we as parents have to make in regards to our children.  As a Mom there aren't enough parenting books, testimonies, or talk shows to help me out as a parent in regards to making a good decision, whether small or large.  Often times there's nothing like good ole experience like trial and error that sometimes many of us use when making choices in regards to our children.

Does that make us bad parents?  Or do we chalk it up and the next time we're more aware of the situation or mistake and take the necessary steps so that it doesn't happen again.  Is either way right or wrong?  I don't think so, because you may see things one way and I may see another way, but neither of us are wrong in our decision are we?  Choices we make as parents are sometimes easy and sometimes difficult, and all we can do as parents is pray that the choices we make for our children are the right ones.

When making a decision what necessary steps if any do you take to reach your decision?


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11.09.2012

It's A Tweed-y Bird






Tweed Jacket (New York & Company), Black Top (New York and Company), Skinny Jeans (Old Navy), Brown Boots (Nine West), Hobo Onna Ehlrich via (Hautelook), Watch Michael Kors via (ebay), Renegade Bracelet (Stella & Dot), Gold Chain Link & Pave Ball Bracelet Oia Jules via (Etsy), and Jade Bracelet via (etsy).


Today I decided to wear a Tweed Blazer I purchased at New York and Company a couple of years ago, this blazer was one of my first blazers that I purchased, and since then I own just about every color.  Since I'm at stay at home Mom, it's so hard to stuck in the rut of wearing sweatshirts and jeans or just getting up and throwing something on.  So I began slowly but surely building my wardrobe and getting myself out of that stay at home Mom look (if there really is a look) and started dressing up every now and then, to make myself look better and feel better.

So, I paired my Tweed Blazer with a black top, a pair of skinny jeans, brown riding boots, a hobo, and gold accessories.  When you wear a blazer, it doesn't matter what color it is, how do you style it?


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11.07.2012

Exclamation Mark







Sweater (H&M), Skinny Jeans (Old Navy), Boots (Nine West), Tote (Gucci), Watch Michael Kors (ebay), Chain and Studded Bracelet Isshounoyakusoku via (etsy), and Black Leather Bracelet (Wanderlust).



My outfit for today is a novelty sweater I picked up at H&M recently, on the front of the sweater is a big pink glittery exclamation mark.  When I saw the sweater, I fell in love with the pink glitter and exclamation mark because I thought it was very different, plus it was the only sweater left in the store, so I really had to have it then.

Since, it's officially cold here in Indiana my outfits now will consist of coats, scarves, sweaters, long sleeved shirts, jeans, and boots.  I will also incorporate dresses and skirts, its been too long since I did a post on a dress or skirt.  I decided to pair my sweater with skinny jeans, a Gucci tote, black boots, and gold and gold accessories.


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