Pencil Skirt

February 21, 2014


I wore this pencil skirt this week and paired it with a little lime green and snow leopard.  The snow has finally all melted but the lake was still frozen and looked beautiful.  While we were out on the dock taking photos the lake made a few haunting lurches and creeks.  Enough to scare us a little!  It is becoming second nature for me to mix and match patterns these days and this was no exception.  Check out the detailing on the inset of my skirt! 





Sweater Ann Taylor ~ Blouse Gap(similar on sale too) ~ Skirt Ann Taylor (similar)  ~ Boots old but I like these ~ Bag ThuFri c/o ~ Cable bracelet Rustic Cuff ~ Chain bracelet Claudia Rowe c/o ~



I first shared my love of Claudia Rowe here.  The Bristol chain bracelet plated in silver antique with 18k gold dipped hammered heart detail is perfect for layering.   I have on many occasions shared Rustic cuff with you here, here, and here, and her new line of bracelets include this Cable twist stainless steel bracelet with RC rectangle ends is gorgeous for sure. I carry my ThuFri bag I first shared with you here, everyday to the office with anything I might need to run errands with.  It is so roomy and stylish.  I am so excited to be sharing these fabulous designers with you again. The Python Away Weekend clutch  has a removable chain strap and roomy interior making it suitable for a chic cosmetic case or to carry all the necessities for a night out. It's great for keeping small valuables organized for a weekend or everyday when slipped into an Everyday Tote. I love mine! 



As I mentioned yesterday, today is another collaboration giveaway of more favorites!  I know... I do have a lot of favorites!!  One lucky Peridot Sky's reader will win both the Claudia Rowe Bristol chain bracelet and the Rustic Cuff cable twist, and the ThuFri Python Away clutch from their new line the Weekend!!  Pretty fabulous if I may say so myself!!




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Life Update

February 20, 2014
I originally had an outfit post to share today.  I know... it has been forever it seems.  I thought it would be difficult getting back in front of the camera and sharing, but Gab and I fell right back into to routine!  She is the best at making it easy to pose for! Yesterday was a 12+ hour day for me and I really didn't have the energy to edit photos last night.  The good news is tomorrow I will share them and I will let you in on a little secret... there is another giveaway with tomorrows outfit!  eekkk, your gonna love it all! A few more of my favorites for sure!

I have been super absorbed in redecorating my master bedroom.  It was on my list of 50 I shared here.  The room was painted last weekend, the new bed arrived yesterday, I purchased a floor mirror, and I scored a fabulous mirror console that fits perfectly.   I am finally looking at upholstery for my Grandmother's barrel chair I mention here, and here.  Now I need to start adding the accessories like lamps...I love these, these and these. I am loving this rug at Lulu and Georgia.  Joe has agreed that I can add pink to the room... so throw pillows with pink are definitely in order.  I love this, this, and this  pillow!  So many fun decisions to make!  

This week has been amazing slow it seems and I cannot wait for the weekend to work on the design of my bedroom some more.  More shopping please!!  The weather is attempting to lighten up and warmer days are added every week.  That means more outfit pics finally! What have you been up too?  Do you have something to share I overlooked for my room? Let me know your suggestions!

Don't forget... Today is your last chance to enter my Epic V-Day giveaway here!!

Four Favorites

February 19, 2014



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To be honest… I am surprised I don't own a pair of pink pumps!  I must change that!  These beauties all caught my eye and while I am loving the bright bold pink suede, the bubblegum pink J Crews are soooo pretty!  There are times the weather doesn't cooperate with suede pumps and that is where this pretty Kate Spade in a iridescent finish that plays with the light would be a perfect pink pump. 

I may just have to own the bubblegum pinks and these bright bold pink pumps by Ivanka Trump...a great price on sale right now!!  The Guess pump with the cut out sides in clear plastic have a lot of sex appeal too.  

So.. which pump is your favorite?  I am ready to add this to my closet! 

Don't forget today I am linking up with the girls and you should see their favorites too! 


Linking up here too! 

Tassel Necklaces

February 18, 2014


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Tassel necklaces have come back in style recently.  I love layering longer necklaces and a tassel add a fun flair to your ensemble.  I rounded up a few of my favorites and would love to layer these up for springtime!  Do you have a tassel necklace that you love to layer?  I am in love with numbers 1 and 3!! Which is your favorite? 



Epic VDay Giveaway

February 14, 2014
Today, I’m really excited to be able to give one lucky Peridot Sky's  reader a slew of my favorite Valentine’s Day treats.  You’ll get the most incredible pair of Stella & Dot earrings, a box of fabulously delicious Christopher Elbow chocolates, the sweetest "Be happy & do good" Ashley Brooke Designs mug, an Ostrich Rustic Cuff , a sweet set of note cards red le pen and pencil set from my dear friend at Carde Blanche, and a striped little note book for all your thoughts!

 It’s a celebration and it just so happens to be Valentines!  I have mentioned here, and here, that my blog anniversary was January 1st.  Two years of blogging.  It has been a fabulous journey and I couldn’t have done it without you.  Thank you! 

 With the start of a new year… the ending of holiday season… and the resolutions and diets that commence, I knew I wanted to celebrate with you; after all you are important to me, on a day that was meant for love!!  Can you believe this giveaway? 
I curated this grand collaboration just for you.  Everything is dear to my heart and I hope you love it all as much as I do. 




Ashley Brooke Designs

Be Happy & do Good…yup… that's a great way to start your day!  I have a weakness for cute mugs!  I don't know why,  but it helps to make a great start to your day I think! She has a mug that says "you can't sit with us"  haha, the girls at the office and I have a joke about this and seriously need this mug! 


A lover of fine stationary like myself, Lori at Carde Blanche will work tirelessly with you to create the perfect custom order!  She tends to every detail and has the cutest stationary and pens to choose from.  Love it! 


If you have been following for very long then you know that I LOVE my bracelets and cuffs.  Rustic Cuffs are a favorite for sure. Jill is from my hometown in Oklahoma and I couldn't be more excited every time she launches a new line.   I wish I could keep this one too! 



Stella & Dot


I have to admit, I only recently received my first piece of Stella and Dot.  I don't know what I was waiting for but you can bet I will be adding more Stella to my collection. Have you seen the new collection? Adorable and lucky for me my dear friend Brooke offered to collaborate with me.   I chose these turquoise studs for you to win because they reminded me of a summer day by the pool.  Another favorite of course!  




Oh my… last but surely not least…. Christopher Elbow chocolates.  The best!  Just look at those scrumptious morsels!  He is a local artisan and you will be hooked trust me!! My favorite Christopher Elbow is the 70%dark chocolate bars!  Smooth and decedent! 

It's such a fun giveaway.  Follow the instructions in the rafflecopter form below and good luck!  


a Rafflecopter giveaway




10 Things Worth the Splurge

February 13, 2014
I have shared wardrobe building and beauty essentials with you so an investment buying post is only fitting. Big ticket splurges!  There are things that you should always buy as an investment piece and things that are okay to spend less on.  The saying goes, if you buy right, you buy once.  I buy into that and believe that investment pieces will be with you for a long time if you invest well. 


10 Things Worth the Splurge

1. A great watch:

This is something you will wear everyday so it only makes sense you want it to stand up to everyday wear.  My Michele watch was a gift from Joe on our first Christmas, 8+ years ago, and I wear it everyday.  I consider it an investment.  Buying the best watch you can afford doesn't have to break the bank.  If that means a Audemars Piguet, or a Daniel Wellington, purchase something that will last.  Remember you will look at it every day so you want it to go with several styles.





 2. Your signature scent: 

I wore the same fragrance for many years before discovering Jo Malone.  Now, Jo Malone's the only scent I wear.  I love that you can layer fragrances to change the scent.  Here's a little tip. . .if you can, always buy the larger bottle.  This way, you get three times as much perfume for only twice as much! 






3.  A beautiful handbag:
Find a handbag you love in a classic style and a versatile color. Be sure to choose a bag that will withstand style changes and trends.  You don't want your investment bag to be a trend!   I love my Louis Vuitton bags and they are such a great investment. Two of my Gucci bags I have had since high school.  Like I said, timeless and versatile. 






4.  A fantastic coat:
A classic, modern coat will stay in your wardrobe for many years if the cut, color and quality are fabulous.  You may want a wool coat that is more for winter and a great trench for the spring and fall months. Both will last you many years.  


5. Face moisturizer/Eye Cream:
As I mentioned in my beauty post, a good eye cream is important, but can be pricey.  Believe me, this is not where you want to skimp.  I love and swear by my Sub Limage



6.  A professional haircut and color:
I get a lot of comments on my hair, always positive, and I have been asked on many occasions for my hairdresser's number.  That is a great compliment, not only for me, but for her as well.  I do not take short cuts when it comes to my hair; one mistake could cost you months, if not inches, of your hair. . . not to mention the horror of the wrong color. For me, my hair is an important part of my appearance that I am willing to splurge on.

7.  A great pair of sunnies:
I have a difficult time finding a pair of sunglasses that fit my face.  So, when I find a pair, they are an investment because I know I will wear them for many years.  Always be sure they are not to trendy or flashy.  Don't skimp - get your lenses polarized! 
8.  A perfect fitting bra:
Spending a few extra dollars on a good bra will not only make you feel better, it will also make your clothes hang on you in a more flattering way.  A good fit is the foundation for all of your clothing. You only need two for a great foundation of your wardrobe I shared here with you.  A black and nude will pretty much cover all your outfit needs.  If you like the pretty colors and prints, then add those after you have the most important ones and shop when they are on sale!   Be sure to hand-wash and line-dry them to make sure they last.

If you haven't done so already, get sized. And if your weight changes, get sized again. Don't try and guess with what you think fits, you may actually be surprised. 

9. A real piece of jewelry:

This may sound frivolous, but it isn’t. Costume jewelry can be fun, but there’s nothing like a really fine piece of jewelry to make you feel beautiful, elegant and confident. Whether it’s a string of pearls or a diamond pendant, the real story of your first piece of good jewelry begins with you.

 
10. Yourself:

I know that sounds like a cliché but you should always Invest in the time and effort that makes a difference for you. Weather its 30 minutes in the morning to meditate or  your favorite reality show, doing for yourself really pays off if done consistently.   


With these 10 investments in place, you will always have the ability to look and feel well-dressed and finished...even if you save on the rest of your wardrobe.

If I'm wearing a pair of Gap jeans with a t-shirt, my nice watch, great sunglasses and  investment bag, allow me to look stylish and put together regardless of the situation.

What's on your list of things worth the splurge?


Beauty Basics

February 11, 2014
Having great skin doesn't come naturally for everyone.  Sometimes it takes a lot of work.  I have been very luck all my life to have great skin.  I never had an acne problem, or breakouts.  I take care of my skin with a few really good techniques, and have tried over the years a handful of different products.  I have always been a believer in good skin care and moisturizer.  So today I am sharing my top 8 beauty products and tip and really there are no tricks!  Good skin care starts at the foundation of a good routine and skin care doesn't just stop at the chin line.  Your beauty routine should encompass your whole body. 



Every one of these products I believe in and use.  Actually…I have a lip balm and hand cream in several locations around my home and keep them in my office.  When we think beauty routine we generally think makeup.  There is great importance to this but having great skin goes beyond the chin line as well.    

A game changer for me was this face brush.  I added this to my cleansing routine just recently and can tell you I can tell a big difference.  I only use it three times a week and I recommend you  experiment with how many days works best for you.  It could be too harsh for everyday use.  After a great cleanse I always moisturize not only my face…but my neck as well.  

Eye creams are something I added to my routine in the past few years.  I had tried a few different creams and they seemed to do okay.  Once I tried this Sublimage I knew it was what I was looking for.  Awesome product…but pricey. On the flip side, a jar will last you a long time…a little bit goes a long way. 

Vitamin E oil is a multi use product.  I use it about once a month on my lips for softness right before I go to bed.  It is great for under the eyes as a nighttime moisture treatment on occasion, and for dry spots in the winter months that may appear. Another long life expectancy with this product too! 

A good skin exfoliant and scrub is important to keep you skin glowing.  Very important in the summer months when we expose ourselves to chemical filled pools and lotions for sun protection.  

Last but surely not least is the cuticle oil.  It smells yummy like almonds and is great for your cuticles.  If you have your nails done professionally… ( I do) then you probably at one time or another noticed they apply oil to your cuticles to rub in before you wash your hands.  I keep a small bottle at home to apply to my fingers and toes in-between  salon visits.  


What beauty products do you love? Anything I missed or should know about? 


Building a Wardrobe

February 10, 2014
Since beginning my blog just over two years ago, my own style and wardrobe have changed quite a bit and they are still evolving. I can honestly say I don't think I would have been near as confident to mix up patterns like I do now.  I do love fashion and have become a better shopper in regards to keeping the importance of budget, versatility, personal style and trying new things. With years of shopping practice under my belt, I think I'm pretty darn good! 

The one thing that is important to remember is building a wardrobe takes time.  Chances are you will not go out shopping in the morning and come home in the evening with a complete wardrobe. It's a process, kinda like lasagna...layering one at a time! Let this post be a recipe to build your wardrobe.

Building your wardrobe one piece at a time



8 Steps to Building Your Wardrobe

1. Think of your lifestyle



It's important to shop for your lifestyle.  I, for example, work in a corporate office where there is a no denim policy.  So, denim or chambray has to be added to my wardrobe in moderation.   It's just not cost effective to own items I can't use regularly.  So, the first thing you need to do is ask yourself a few questions about what your average day looks like. 



Do you sit a lot or are you on your feet? 
Do you adhere to a dress code? 
Do you spend your day at home with the kids but meet friends out in the afternoon? 
Do you work in a professional environment or work from home?
Do you live in the city or the suburbs?
What are your hobbies or activities?
Do you dress up often? (This can be helpful in justifying something you really want.)

If you keep these few questions in mind while building your wardrobe, you will have a much better shopping experience. 

2. Determine your budget 



One of the most important steps to building your wardrobe is figuring out how much you want to (or can) spend. If you have a $1,000 budget, you don't want to splurge on the designer handbag you've had your eye on just yet. Whatever your budget, stick to it and buy your core pieces first. What's a core item?  See below!


3. Core Items   



Before you begin shopping, make a list of ten to twelve items that will make up the foundation of your wardrobe - your core pieces. Generally your core pieces are your most expensive items.  You may already own a few of these pieces and if so, that's even better.  
The ten core pieces in my wardrobe are:
  1. A dark colored dress, AKA. . .the "little black dress"  (Keep in mind that it doesn't have to be black anymore, it can be a deep navy too.  Just make sure it's a solid color.)
  2. A crisp button down white or ivory blouse
  3. A great pair of jeans in a classic cut; nothing trendy
  4. Black pumps
  5. Neutral, solid color blazer
  6. A good fitting bra
  7. V-neck tees in solid colors (black, white, gray)
  8. An investment handbag (The best bag you can afford that is versatile enough to go with any season and/or outfit)
  9. Boots
  10. A Trench Coat



Now that you have determined what your core items are, check to see if you already own them.  Then make a list of the items missing you will need to shop for.  Now the fun begins. . .focus on your core items and build the rest of your wardrobe around them with colorful, trendy and fun items.  Add in that leopard scarf and a fun statement necklace! The key to trendy items is to not break the bank.  Pinterest is a great resource for outfit inspirations, as well as other blogs.   

Create a Pinterest board of outfits you like, then take a look back at the board to see what you are drawn too and what catches your eye. 

4. Mistakes Learned



You know when you absolutely love something in the store but then you get it home and it doesn't feel as good?  Those stripes really did go around your hips in an unflattering way and that color orange does make your hair look brassy.  These items inevitably end up in your donation pile.  I've also had days where I just didn't feel cute; that outfit customarily never is on repeat!  These my dear friends are mistakes learned. Know what works and rarely trust the sales clerk.  She doesn't know you from Adam and, of course it looks good on you to her, it's a sale! 

5.  Your Wing Woman 

This is an important job and the gal who is deemed this position needs to be an honest friend.  She needs to be trusted to tell the hard truth even when you don't want to hear it because you want the item so badly.  Her role is to be the honest truth to the fit, look and style on everything but, most importantly, on the core wardrobe pieces you shop for. Your job is to trust her. I can shop with my bestie and hands down never come home with anything stupid.  And believe me...she is honest.  Nuff said! 

6.  Dressing rooms are there for a reason



Try on the items before you buy them.  If you think mint green is a great color on you but have never worn it, now is the time to see.  There is only one way to find out if it works for you! Experiment with accessories and styles. The sales clerk has probably seen that item tried on before and may have seen some fabulous styles she can share too. Now is a great time to also remember what designers to steer clear of and which ones fit your body well.  Remember, dressing room mirrors generally are not your friend. 

7.  Out with the old, in with the new

Now you really should clean out your closet, keeping only your core items and the pieces you purchased to add.  Get rid of everything that doesn't fit, you don't like or that you're hanging on to because you hope it will come back in style.  Consign the nicer pieces, or even sell them on one of those sites that lets others shop your closet.  (I think its Posh Mark?)  Donate the rest to goodwill.  All that money you make from selling unwanted items from your closet can be invested back into the new wardrobe!

8.  New you, New style rules



Stop thinking about all the fashion rules you were taught, you know what works for you.  Pay attention to how clothes and styles make you feel.  After years of exploring my personal taste and style, I pretty much make up my own rules where fashion is concerned.   However, I always keep in mind what works and what doesn't.    Give yourself permission to be colorful, creative, trendy and have fun with it. Get creative and think outside the box!  

Fashion may change and so will our bodies, but if you follow these guide lines you will be able to keep up with the latest fashions, and always feel good! 


Graphic Image NY

February 07, 2014

I  keep a journal, a place to write down my thoughts, plans and dreams.  Its not a national secret journal, but I also wouldn't want every one have great ease reading it either.  Graphic Image has teamed up with me to share the sweetest, most colorful journals for you or your sweetheart! Featuring a fully functional heart shape lock this elegant journal includes 240 lined cream-white, acid free archival pages.  The pages have a gilt edge and a there is a double faced cream satin ribbon marker. 



 These journals would make great gifts for graduating seniors for their life plans, new mothers to write sweet notes for her baby to read when they are older, or maybe just a place to write your own thoughts and inspirations.  What a special gift to spend the next 12 months writing letters to your loved one and gift it to them next year! Whatever you use your journal for it will be so special I just know it!!


    I am celebrating sweet gifts the entire month of February… sweetheart month… with you to celebrate my appreciation of you following, reading, commenting, and supporting my blog.  You guys really do make my blog what it is!  Thank you.   So get ready for a month of fabulous giveaways for you!!! 

     Enter to win by following the instruction in the rafflecopter form below and good luck! 


    a Rafflecopter giveaway




    Gem of the Week

    February 06, 2014
    Whether you are making a list… jotting it down… or sending sweet notes…these are just plain cuteness!  xoxo





    February Favorites

    February 05, 2014

    Happy happy Wednesday friends!  It is a happy day as It's a snow day here today, and yesterday too!  And  I don't mean a little bit of snow either...I am talking 9+ inches. All this snow has me dreaming of open toes sandals and pretty pastel toes! I cannot believe we are in February already and in a blink of an eye it will be easter!  Eeeekkk!  I have big time spring fever.  I want to layer in tanks and tees, not sweaters and more sweaters!  

    I am loving these  Sunnies   and I bet you can see why.  Pink!! You know they would be so fun this spring too!  

    I love a good bag. Something that I can carry all my essentials in and still be stylish.  This Brahmin  Satchel is so pretty and I am loving the pastel color.  Not a harsh black or common tan. 


    These pretty Polish colors will be fun for spring and my toes are begging to be exposed!

    An speaking of exposed toes… these Heels are fabulous.  Who doesn't love a back zipper and a few straps!!

    What are your favorites? 

    Linking up here too! 

    Valentines Gift Guide

    February 04, 2014
    Art





    1 ~ 2 ~ 3 ~ 4  ~5 ~ 6 ~ 7 ~ 8 ~ 9 ~ 10 ~ 11 ~ 12


    As a hopeless romantic I love Valentines and the sentiment behind it.  I don't however believe in the cliche of the holiday.  On our very first valentines I remember Joe telling me  "no box of chocolates or bouquet of flowers can measure my love for you."  Those words have always stayed with me and we take the non traditional route and exchange more unique or special gifts.  I rounded up a few things I would love to receive!    Heck you know me… generally if it's pink I love it!   

    What are you doing for valentines day?  Leave me a comment and share your plans! 



    Valentines DIY

    February 03, 2014

    Add a touch of love to your home with a few easy peasy DIY Valentines decorations.  I gathered up my girls and we had so much fun putting these quick little decorations together and it added just the right amount of love to my mantle!
     

    I purchased the love and the letters from Hobby Lobby.  I didn't want it to be heavy wood and not a lot of money invested so I choose chipboard letters.  The burlap pennant came in a package of four so that was perfect. 

    So here is all you need:




    We painted all the letters red except out O we painted white.  Once dry we added hearts.  That's all there was too it!


    Anna traced around the love letters on her pennant to paint while I painted my pennants a pink.  I was going for a distressed look with some of the burlap not covered as well as other spots.  When my pink was dry I took a round sponge paint brush and added the polka dots and Anna added polka dots in two sizes to her unpainted burlap.  FYI The love letters and the hearts took two coats to get a good rich red.


     I cut out a heart template and lightly traced it onto my pennants.  I painted the hearts red and then added glitter glue to add the sparkle!  I know....... glitter in my house! Blasphemy!   Love the glitter glue because it adheres so well without flecking off.



    A few mini clothes pins and a pink twine and its a darling addition to my mantle! Oh, and if your wondering about my ombre heart...... I shared how I made it here



    What do you think?  Love it?

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