Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Pumped Up Kicks & Two Dresses




Hello my reader friends! What a joy it is for me to share life and style with you here on the blog, and of course see yours as well. Today I'm featuring a mix of athleisure and edgy, which are a couple of my favorites.

Dress 1: Camo Fun

This t-shirt dress is soft and it has pockets. I mean, really. Camo? Soft Fabric? Pockets? Roomy? What else do I need and can I complain about anything while wearing it? Ok, I will say that without my cutoff leggings underneath (I cut off a pair of black leggings for the perfect bicycle short fit!), I would feel vulnerable to breezes, sitting and entering or exiting a vehicle. That being said, I put those leggings on and went about my day, knowing that my underwear was safely hidden from the public; as it should be. ;)



As far as these Adidas kicks go, they are now my favorite casual sneaker.  I can't stop envisioning all the outfits I can wear them with! This morning I woke up and thought about a black and white stripe dress that it would be fun to sport them with. What is wrong with me??? I picked up these shoes, along with the wedges I recently featured at Rack Room Shoes. Their BOGO half off sale is going on, which I couldn't resist knowing that a gift card was waiting to be used in my wallet.

It goes without saying that these sneakers are comfortable and I love the leather look of them.



My mood was adventurous and I kept grabbing for more accessories to layer with this outfit.

Choker. Ouu, I like that. Let's see, how about some hematite thrown in? Oh yeah. Wait, I think I can add in a longer pop of silver. Finito!

The bracelet and the necklaces are apart of my new collection, so I couldn't wait to sport them. I love the mixed, hammered medals with a touch of femininity in the the sparkly stones. Yes I called them sparkly stones. It's also nice to have a thicker wrap that draws the attention to the smallest part of my body, like an arm party, without the work of an arm party!




Outfit Breakdown:
Camo Dress: Entourage/Pumped Up Kicks: Rack Room Shoes/Jewelry: Premier Designs

Dress 2: Chambray Classic

Here's the other dress I styled these shoes with...





I love this classic chambray dress, which has been featured on the blog with a dressier look (check that out here).  This style came together quickly and easily, for an errands kind of day. There had been no time to wash and style my hair, so the cap was a no brainer!

Outfit Breakdown:
Chambray Dress: Target/White Jacket: Hand-Me-Down/Kicks: Rack Room Shoes/Hat: OLD/Trusty Backpack Purse: Clarks USA/Jewelry: Premier Designs
Linking up with Living On Cloud NineKindess Link upHigh Latitude StyleElegance and MommyhoodWeekend Wear Link UpShelbee On The EdgeFancy FridayFabulous Friday Link UpFashion Should be Fun

Ok, if you made it this far, I will close with a little bit of silly cuteness. The cuteness is from my boys of course. ;)


We survived our first week of homeschool so I thought we should celebrate with iced coffee for mom and cupcakes for the boys!


Yes! We still go to splat! My year of free cupcakes isn't over yet!


Have a wonderful day!!

Chrissy
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Tuesday, August 22, 2017

WIW & Playing In a Friend's Closet

Hello! Today's post has more than my usual, but I hope you can hang on until the end. I know and I understand, the days are so full now!  First, let me share a mini adventure featuring this casual outfit, and then tell you about an opportunity I had to help a friend shop her own closet. 


Zoo Get Up

***These chacos are on sale for $55.00 on the REI website!!***

Nothing fancy. I was going for cool and comfortable, which is why I reached for my linen, flowy tank from the GAP. You know what would be nice? A linen cami of sorts to layer it with? I suppose you could layer a bralette underneath, but I've not purchased one yet, so I made do with my salmon colored tank and hoped for the best. The idea was to match the tank, sandals and lipstick, but it did not translate well in the pics the way I'd hoped.

In spite of the hot weather, this day turned out to be wonderful! My only regret is not insisting on a few group photos. The zoo is one of the few places that every family member enjoys. We all love viewing the reptile habitat, which they recently reconstructed at our zoo. It's beautiful. The whole place is beautiful and I plan on returning once the weather cools down.




Someone was worn out by the time we got to the restaurant...


There was time for one short shopping outing with my beautiful mother in law...


***Shop Your Closet***

Now I'm taking today's post on a wild turn...from animals to the crazy and sometimes savage condition of the female closet!! Is it a complete mess? Is it neat and orderly? Whatever the state your closet is in, the question of what to wear will still be voiced from time to time. Which brings me to the next question...what do you do when you're stuck in a fashion rut? I blog and gain weekly inspiration from my fellow bloggers. I now find that putting outfits together is a fun hobby that is so practiced I don't think too much about the process anymore. Of course I get stuck in fashion ruts, but with the weekly inspiration gained from other bloggers, I don't stay there long.

But what about those of us that don't blog, or find enjoyment from playing dress-up in their closet? There are some that look at their closet and feel overwhelmed and don't have any idea as to what to add or take away from their existing wardrobe. Time to search Pinterest for capsule wardrobe ideas, or scroll through endless IG pics just isn't available.

I've shopped with friends to help them pick out a few new items, because who doesn't like a second opinion?! However, I find that if I'm going to help for the long term we should start in their closet.  A fresh pair of eyes helps a friend see new possibilities; new life to old pants, neglected accessories to complete a look, cardigans for that extra layer (or if you're like me, hide what needs to be hidden). These "fresh" eyes also help decide what needs to go and visualize how great the wardrobe could become. After that, it is time to create a shopping list.

I invited myself to do just that for my friend Carrie. ;) She warned me ahead of time that her closet was in sad shape. However, upon arrival, all I saw was potential. Carrie had already cleaned through her closet so there was not a lot in there, but I think it made it easier to create multiple combinations. 
With her permission, I did a quick inventory and rearranged a few items to work within the confines of the top-bottom-layer system.

We began with 4 tops, 4 cardigans, 4 pairs of shoes and 2 pairs of pants. Time began to fly by! In fact, we ran out of time before we ran out of combinations!  For most, changing in and out of clothes while remaining focused on wardrobe goals, can be a CHORE. That's why it's nice to have a wardrobe director. It's one of the few times I get bossy.


"Here, try this."
"Nope. Change that out and put it with this."
"Do you have it in you for one more?"




Carrie graciously tried combinations she was skeptical about, some of which she ended up liking. We were both tired by the end of our session, but I was elated with the results. I couldn't wipe my goofy grin off my face and I clapped in childlike fashion when we discovered all the potential that was awaiting inside Carrie's closet--all without purchasing a single item!





What's the best part? Seeing your friend smile at her reflection in the mirror and appreciate her God-given beauty. Regardless of what she wears, Carrie is beautiful inside and out, and anyone who knows her would agree. Most importantly, Carrie knows she is valued beyond measure by her Creator. Helping her feel good about what she wears gives her an extra dose of confidence that adds more sparkle to her smile, more spring to her step and more enthusiasm to her handshake. ;)



In addition to the outfit combinations, we made a list of items that would help expand on what Carrie already owns: bracelets, a pair of white pants, and so on. Now when I see Carrie, I see some of the outfits we styled, but with her personal additions, making the outfits more unique. That's a win!

To those in a fashion rut, instead of wasting precious moments staring hopelessly at your closet shelves, ask a friend (fashionista or not) for help. She will see things from a new perspective, and help you combine what you have with what you like into a winning, functioning wardrobe. So do not lose heart my readers, your journey to fashion freedom is a fun, friend-filled afternoon away!



Have a fabulous day my reader friends,

Chrissy
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Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Black, White & A New Statement Piece


Ok my friends.  Though my birthday has come and gone, I continue to celebrate it for as long as I can this month! So you may see a new item pop up here and there on the blog. Or you may here me mention this milestone birthday a time or two. Please bear with me as I make this transition! ;)

Today's post is real. Colorless, tired reality. We were rushing out the door to meet a couple of friends at Costco of all places. A small group picnic was coming up and we needed the easiest entree one could find...hotdogs, and a lot of them.

The day before my newly earned jewelry came in and I couldn't wait to wear it, so I reached for the easiest back drop - a solid black top. With no time to spend on outfit creativity (or make up application!!!!!), I grabbed white pants and neutral accessories. Done.

I didn't even worry about earrings, as I felt like the necklace was statement enough.

Everything else I'm wearing, I've had since the spring or last season.





Outfit Breakdown:
Top: Irma (LulaRoe by Shannon)/ White Denim (Entourage)/Shoes: Clothes Mentor Find/Purse: Vince Camuto (Christmas Gift)/Necklace & Bracelet (Premier Designs)

With hotdogs and condiments purchased I said goodbye to my friends (asked them if they wanted to borrow my boys for a bit - hehe) and started for my car. Before we could get to said vehicle, my sneaky friend stopped me with an early birthday present...


I loved that it was a brown paper package, tied up with string! ;)


Surprises truly are my favorite - I love it!


So do they!! ;)


And there was my first birthday card that came in the mail to help make my special day an anticipated reality. I have so very much to be thankful for and one of those things I'm thankful for, is this blogging adventure! Truly, I look forward to corresponding with you each week!

Have a fabulous week my reader friends.

Chrissy
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Tuesday, August 15, 2017

Colorful Leggings & Stripes



Hello! What is your comfortable, but oh-so-much-fun go to look? I think this may be mine. At least for now it is. Who knows when the winds of style change may come, especially for this eclectic and indecisive hot mess! However, until it does, I love the cozy softness found in my LulaRoe leggings that are neutral and somewhat of a tame print (compared to some in my opinion). Now add the element of color and texture and I feel ready to take on any errand!



This was a dreary day, so color was just what I needed and I didn't stop at the leggings. The light orange stripe down the middle of the shirt begged for my tassel necklace, that also coordinated with the colors in the leggings. Oh wait! Look, there's my favorite bangle set in beautiful shades of orange and gold. I've gone this far, so why not add that crazy lip color I'm not yet adjusted to? As you can see, I decided to keep the shoes and the purse a tame, legit neutral. ;)

I think that sign above my head said, "print mixing allowed". Ha! I know, so corny.




Outfit Breakdown:
Top: Marisa Jill's Boutique (local)/Leggings: LulaRoe (Shannon Schmitt)/Shoes: Marissa Jill (Local Boutique)/ Jewelry: Premier Designs (Shop the Shop)

My photographer for the day was my middle son and he likes to make jokes...


"Come on. You know I don't have the storage for you to take 100 photos at once!" Why??


Good thing he's cute, right? ;) I guess I should be thankful I can get photo help at all!! And these pictures are the perfect example of bringing your blog life along with you. There were so many stops along the way...pick up kids at school, haul everyone to the doctor for one kid's appointment, take said kid back to practice, drop off prescription, run the remainders to get their hair cut, pick up prescription and then finally head home. Phew! We all have those days and on those days I want be comfortable, but I still want to look put together.

Oh, and I must mention that we squeezed in a stop at the cupcake shop to get my free treat for the day...

Lemon-Zing - Looks so pretty doesn't it?



I sent that cupcake over to a neighbors, delivered by my cuties. I'm sure their cute smiles made that cupcake even better! ;)

Well, that's all for today my reader friends. I hope your week is off to a good start!

Chrissy
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Thursday, August 10, 2017

Chambray Dress & Thursday Moda Link Up



Hello, hello! Today's outfit features the chambray dress I found on clearance last August at Target. I've not worn it since!  I know. It's only the most versatile dress I own, but I'm just now climbing out of a full on fashion rut.  Our hectic schedule leaves little time for creativity, so I wear the same few pairs of pants or shorts day in and day out.  Some of you may be calling me out right now.

"Chrissy, are those green jeans and white jeans the only pants you own?? And those ripped up cutoffs are falling apart!"

Ok. After a quick perusal of my recent posts, I see that I'm not posting about my 3 faves as much as I thought. It's just the locals calling me out right now.

Another reason why I rarely wear this dress is because I don't love it without an extra layer. It's too hot for extra layers right now. Can someone say heatstroke? However, this only applies when I'm going to be outside for an extended period of time. Otherwise most places blast their high powered a/c units to the point of making one believe they've stepped into a new season - a cold one.

That's how it went down this past Sunday,  so I grabbed my green jacket and threw on my green hat with the navy band and reached for these fabulous heeled sandals. Oh glorious day! I am not wearing anything new, but it felt a brand new outfit!

On another note, will someone please tell me where the days have gone?? I had so many plans for this week. It's the last few days before I leave the era of my 30s forever and I wanted to savor them. Kick up my heels, shoot the breeze and maybe even get lost in a fictional story of cleverly devised characters; drawing you into their unrealistic, but totally fun adventures!


I wanted to shop for new shoes, either by myself OR with someone over the age of 18 that digs shoes, and stores in general. This pic of my shoe "staples" is saved on my phone to keep me organized and quell the temptation to purchase items that just need other new items to go with it.  I'm ready to find some deals!

Shoes to Replace...


However, instead of shoe hunting for my birthday outing, the back to school shopping, open houses, doctor appointments, hair cuts for these unruly boys, laundry, etc, etc swooped in and took over! There's been an invasion!! I could plan better, but I'm a work in progress in that department for sure.

Now, before I give you the impression that I'm complaining, allow me to state that I wouldn't change a thing, but I must also confess that I wouldn't mind a day to myself with NO agenda, no appointments on the calendar and the simple pleasure one can find in silence. And I'm quite certain many of you relate! Can I get an amen??


Until I do, I'll pray for extra doses of patience and self-control, as my tone is tapping into edgy well before lunch time.

If my favorite song comes on, I'm gonna let go and attempt lyrical dancing or good old fashioned twisting.  I'll laugh at myself. After all, laughter is one of the best stress relievers right?

If there's not enough time to style the hair, then I'll don a hat and a smile.


When I hear my name on repeat, whether it be in a high pitched, sing-song urgency over the littlest of "dilemmas" or a deep and slightly demanding request, I'll thank the Lord I'm still needed.  As they say, "the days are long but the years are short". I'll get around to "me time" and finding those shoes eventually...hopefully sooner rather than later, right?? ;)

In the meantime, I invite you to join me in celebrating the little moments found in what you enjoy, as well as overlooking the ever lurking negatives by focusing on all there is to be thankful for! Let's take a moment and breathe in deep and exhale slow.


Outfit Breakdown:

Jacket: GAP/Chambray Dress: Target (Current Option)/Fedora: Banana Republic (Lighter Option)/Shoes: WHBM warehouse sale (Fun Black Option)/Purse: Vince Camuto (Fun option!)/ Necklace, Watch & Bracelet: Premier Designs Jewelry
Linking up with.High Latitude StyleLiving On Cloud NineWeekend Wear Link UpA Pocketful of PolkadotsShelbee On The EdgeFashion Should be FunNancy's Fashion Style

Also!! - Today I am excited to be co-hosting the Thursday Moda link up with Kellyann of This Blonde's Shopping Bag and Kristin of Countdown to Friday while Ada is vacationing with her family!! Link up, inspire, share, comment...This is what makes blogging so fun!

An InLinkz Link-up
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