A Little Holiday Unplug...

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I'm going to take a bit of a break on the blog over the next few weeks. I want to focus on the holidays with my family and re-vamp some stuff for BAD. You can still find me on Instagram & Twitter while I'm unplugging from the blog but my Facebook page might be a little radio silent. 

Don't worry I will be back - I promise! 2014 is already looking very bright! :) xoxo

Outfit Post: How To Winterize A Maxi Dress

L.Mae Boutique Splatter Print Maxi Dress (c/o)

BB Dakota Top (old - very similar here)

Jessica Simpson Platform Booties (super old - great look-a-like option here)

Phillip Lim for Target Mini Handbag (splurge option here)

Cat Banjo Three Drops Necklace || J. Crew Classic Pave Link Bracelet || Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in "Wild Orchid"

When I got this dress in the mail last week from L.Mae Boutique, I was really excited and couldn't wait to wear it. Until I realized it was like a max of 32 degrees outside and a breezy, colorful maxi was out of the question. Or was it....? I put my thinking cap on and tried to figure out how the heck I could wear this slinky ball of brightness in the middle of December...

A long sleeve top and black platform booties were exactly what this maxi dress needed during a visit from Jack Frost. I think adding a fur vest would have been another great option for making it totally winter appropriate. I'm a firm believer in wearing neons and brights at all times, but I really can't wait to pair it with a nice tan and some chunky wedges once spring arrives! 

I would have counted this as a holiday party outfit, but I ended up wearing it to Bill's birthday dinner last weekend. Have you ever tried a new restaurant because there was a of hype surrounding it only to have it be a somewhat mediocre experience? That happened to us and I was bummed it was on his b-day. I can't believe there's only 5 days until Christmas!! I've got SO much shopping to do and I'm so behind on so many different things that instead of relaxing this week I'll be a busy bee!

Speaking of L.Mae Boutique... today is the last day to enter this amazing giveaway where we're giveaway 2 giftcards worth $250 each!!! Good luck!! xo

linking up with Watch What I'm Wearing

Outfit Post: Color Block Shift Dress

Banana Republic Factory Printed Coat (old - similar option at Tulle)

Zara Plaid Tartan Blanket Scarf (sold out :( but try this one from Madewell or this one on Etsy)

LuLu's Color Block Citrus Grove Dress in Taupe c/o

Eitenne Aigner Riding Boot (old - but LOVE this version from Victoria's Secret and this pair from Nine West)

Sole Society Smythe Sunglasses in Tortoise and Natassia Satchel c/o || Forever 21 Owl Necklace (similar) || oNecklace Cursive Monogram Necklace c/o || Revlon Just Bitten lip stain in "Lovesick" || Sally Hansen  "Cinna-Snap" nail polish

Finally got some new pictures! Yay for sunshine and no rain! :) I wore this outfit last week to work (and shared on instagram) for a client meeting. I am in absolute love with this shift dress from LuLu's. I like that it has long sleeves and isn't too short making it totally work appropriate. The neutral colors will be fun to pair with colored tights and the actual color blocking hits your body at flattering angles. Sometimes I feel like shift dresses can swallow me since I'm so petite - but not this one! I can't wait to style it with a fur vest! 

Kicking that old myth of not mixing black and brown to the curb I paired it with some cozy tights and comfy brown boots. This Sole Society bag is officially attached to my hand at all times. I can't get enough of it. It holds a lot because there is a ton of room on the inside, yet it stays surprisingly lightweight. Oh and did I mention it's vegan-friendly leather? Oh yes - get on it!

I'm counting down the days until Christmas Eve. Not because of presents silly! I'm excited to have a nice break from work and enjoy celebrating the birth of Baby Jesus! Until then, I've got A LOT of Christmas shopping to do!! Happy Wednesday!

Holiday Outfit Post: Plaid & Leather

 

Target Purple Plaid Shirt

ASOS Faux Leather Skater Skirt (this version is sold out but almost identical here at ASOS)

Zara Booties (old - SUPER similar from Jessica Simpson &  Zappos style)

Simply Vera Opaque Tights (best ever!!!)

Daisy Gem Crystal Necklace c/o || Love Culture Transparent Box Clutch in Rose Gold (love this identical option too) || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Watch || Blu Bijoux Hammered Pearl Bangles c/o Max & Chloe || Graphic Image Personalized Mini Envelope Card Case in White Gold

Maybelline Vivids Lipstick in "Vivid Rose" || Sally Hansen "Gunmetal" Nail Polish with Pure Ice "Sleigh Ride" Nail Polish layered on top

 

Holiday Party season is in full effect and if you're not sure of what to wear - don't worry! I'm sharing an easy and super simple outfit idea today!

 

Somehow I went from owning zero plaid items to over 3 in less than 2 weeks! I guess that's what happens when you realize there's a big ol' hole in your wardrobe! I wore this plaid and leather combo to our building's holiday party last week. I knew it wouldn't be super fancy but I still wanted to look chic and festive! My recently acquired Target purple plaid button down was just the piece I needed to pair with my leather mini skater skirt. I could have gotten the red option to be more "Christmasy" but I figured I'd get more wear out of the purple (I also got this black and white one too.. oops!)

 

Next I just layered on some super fun bangles, a crystal statement necklace (that you can score for $15 by using code BEDAZN or BEDA15 for 15% off your order!) and a cheeky transparent clutch. Normally, my credit cards and ID are just floating around in there but I got the brilliant idea to use my Business Card holder from Graphic Image as a pseudo-wallet for the night! Everyone loved that you could see inside my bag as well as a peak at my card case's personalization stamp :)

 

And BOOM! I was comfy, covered, cozy and totally Christmas party worthy. You could rock this look at your work's party or even a neighborhood get-together that's not going to be extremely dressy. It's been an mix of extremely busy days and terrible weather the last couple of weeks so I apologize for being slightly MIA. Hopefully I can get some more outfits up this week! Happy Monday everyone! xox

Giveaway Winner [What's In My Graphic Image Handbag]

Hello lovelies! I just realized I forgot to announce the winner of my "What's In My Graphic Image Tote" giveaway!!! Oops! I'm sure this will make someone a very happy lady for the holidays! As always.. thank you so very much for your amazing support and love! BAD could not keep going without YOU. :)

Giveaway [$500 L. MAE BOUTIQUE]

 

Why hello there! I know what you're thinking.. a post on a Saturday?! Well believe it. It takes a special kind of occasion to get a Saturday post but these stylish ladies are so worth it. I'm teaming up with 8 fantastic bloggers to bring YOU a ridiculously amazing giveaway! I first introduced you to L.Mae Boutique in August for my Game Day Outfit series. Now, they're choosing 2 lucky readers to win $250 each!!! Uhhhh yeah - I told you it was good :)

L.Mae has got the cutest boutique options with a range of everything from clothing to jewelry to scarves to bags. If I won the $250 here's what I'd spend mine on.

Skirt || Clutch || Scarf || Cardigan || Headband || Necklace

Now for the good stuff! Meet these fabulous ladies and enter to win 1 of $250 prizes!

Living In Color Print | Glitter & Gingham | Southern Curls & Pearls | Carrie Bradshaw Lied

 

Oh So Glam | Haute Off The Rack | Walking in Memphis in High Heels | Bedazzles After Dark | The Chiffon Diary
 

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 Good Luck & Happy Shopping!!! xoxo

{Mini} Outfit Posts: Through Instagram

I realize I shouldn't really be complaining considering other parts of the country are practically blanketed under blizzards... but we have been having not-so-friendly-outfit-post-taking weather. By that I mean rain, rain and more rain. So I'll share a few of my outfits worn over the past couple weeks and cross my fingers for some sunny mornings this week!

 

{J.Crew Sequin Polka Dot Shirt; Old Navy Chambray Shirt; Revlon Lip Butter in "Lollipop"}

{ILY Couture Retail Therapy Sweatshirt (on sale!!); 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target Bag; Zara Studded Booties; Express Stella Skinny Denim}

{BLACK Beaded Sleeve Kimino Jacket c/o LuLu's}

{Amrita Singh POP Necklace; Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Rose Gold Watch}

{ILY Couture "Cliché" Tee (on sale!!); Daisy Gem Crystal Emblem Necklace (use code BEDAZN to get it for $15 or BEDA15 for 15% off your order!!)}

 

I just heard the sun is supposed to come back out later this week! So until then stay tuned to my instagram for more mini outfit pics!

 

{Holiday} Gift Guide: For the BFF (Under $50)

 

Not sure what to get your bestie this holiday season?! Don't worry.. I've put together some of my favorite options that will show her just how much you love her without breaking the bank!

 

For the Newlywed:

Mr. & Mrs. Cocktail Bar Glass Set - $18

These adorable glasses are just the item to get your recently hitched gal pal. I love the moustache and lip imprints - so cheeky and super cutesy! Pair with mini liquor bottles or a split of champs for twice the excitement!

 

For the World Traveler:

Sole Society Natassia Vegan Satchel - $50

We've all got that jet setting friend. She's here one week, gone the next. So get her something she'll really appreciate like this all purpose satchel. It has a detachable shoulder strap, will fit all her carry-on items (ipad, magazines, books, scarf etc..) and double as a handbag while she's jet-setting around town.

 

For the Sparkle Lover:

J.Crew Crystal Button Earrings - $36

She's a classic kind of gal. Loves LBD's, martinis & a great red nail polish. These floral crystal beauties will be the perfect addition to her everyday look. She can pair them with jeans and a tee or for a fancy date night out on the town.

 

For the Girl With Everything:

Sole Society Smythe Sunglasses - $25

What do you get someone that seems to have everything their heart desires? A great pair of sunnies! It's something she can use year round and these slightly oversize tortoise frame look amazing on just about everyone. Bonus points if you wrap them in a hard case!

 

For the Social Media Obsessed:

Kate Spade "Be Dazzling" Glitter iPhone Softcase - $35

She is a twitter wizard and an instagram selfie pro. So why not share in all her electronic glory by gifting her with a super girly and chic case like this one. Just make sure she's looking at you and not the screen during Girl's Night Out

 

For the Fashionista:

Shop Dandy #OOTD T-Shirt - $25

You know that girl who isn't afraid to pull off anything (including a damn paper bag) Trust me, she will love this one! Bet you 100 bucks she can come up with at least 5 ways to wear this sassy shirt immediately!

 

For the Hostess With The Mostest:

Target Threshold Fox Bowl & Serve Dish Set - $16

She's always throwing the best parties and get-togethers, right? Chances are she will think this playful fox serve ware is just as charming as you. You could wrap it up for her to open.. or fill with olives and nuts, bring it to her holiday party and then let her know it's hers to keep! Love that idea!

 

So what do you guys think - any of these BFF options tickle your fancy?

Outfit Post: Faux Fur Vest & Some JRTs

 

Zara Dog Print Blouse (old - last seen here)

Forever 21 Faux Fur Vest (super old - very similar option on sale)

Express "Stella" Jean Legging

DMSX "Ivy" Ankle Bootie c/o LuckyFABB (old)

GiGi New York Uber Clutch in Indigo c/o (python version) || Jennifer Zeuner Cursive Name Plate Necklace (gifted) (budget option here at BaubleBar) || J. Crew Classic Pave Bracelet (super budget friendly Target option)  || Ever So Lovely "Stardust" Earrings (gifted)

Maybelline Vivids Lipstick in "Electric Orange" || OPI Nail Polish in "Russian Navy"

 

Sometimes fall just calls for a faux fur vest and some good ol' booties. I actually don't wear my fur vests as much as I should - you can really get a lot of wear out of them since they look great with jeans, dresses, skirts etc... I should start wearing mine with long sleeve dresses and tights. I think that would be so cute!

 

I love this shirt. You'll remember it was such dumb luck finding it on sale (I actually screamed in the middle of Zara) and after we lost Jack last December it meant a little bit more to me. Well now we have a new member of our household. Meet Birdie:

 

 

She is a 14 week old Jack Russell Terrier. We've had her for a little over a week and we are in love with her. She is most definitely a handful and slightly exhausting... but she's so cute that we just can't help but forgive her puppy ways :) If you follow me on Instagram you already know how obsessed with this little one we are!

 

So stay tuned to all the puppy drama I'll be bringing you. With my flair for the dramatic you know it's going to be good. So far there's been no shoe causalities but I know that can't last forever....

 

Don't forget there's still time for this!

Cyber Monday Deals & Steals!

 

Did you survive the holiday weekend and Black Friday? I actually did most of my shopping online and ran into Target about 10 AM Friday on my way to work (yes, work. Blech!) Sometimes shopping in your PJ's is just so much more fun. Which is why I've rounded up some awesome Cyber Monday promo codes and deals that you might be interested in. Happy shopping!!

 

GiGi New York: Receive free ground shipping on all orders! 10% off $150, 15% off $250, $20% off $350, 30% off $500. Free Zip Pouch (it's so cute!!!) on orders over $100 - no code needed.

Forever 21: Free shipping on all orders (no code needed). Extra 50% off sale items.

Loft: 50% off EVERYTHING - use code CYBER50

ASOS: 30% off EVERYTHING (!!!) - use code GIMMEMORE

Piperlime: 30% off purchase - use code CYBER

GAP & Banana Republic: 40% off - use code CYBER

Old Navy: 30% off - use code CYBER

DSW: $15 off $74, $30 off $149, $50 off $199 - use code CYBERSHOES. Also FREE tote with any purchase - use code BLACKFRIDAY

Target: TONS of deals - BOGO 60% off clothing, accessories, jewelry etc... BOGO 30% off toys, DSLR camera deals and more!

Express: Free shipping and 40% off every single item - no code needed.

ILY Couture: $10 off $50, $15 off $75, $25 off $100 - use code CYBER10 or CYBER15 or CYBER25

J. Crew: Free shipping and 30% off your purchase - use code MONDAY

J. Crew Factory: Free shipping and 50% off EVERYTHING - use code GOSHOP

Sole Society: 33% off everything - new offers everyday at 1pm EST

Hope you score lots of deals! :) xo

 

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Holiday Outfit Post: Turkey Day Sequin Sweatpants

 

Sequin Sweatpants and Baseball Sweater c/o LuLu's

ShoeDazzle "Lisa" Metallic Wedge Pump (sold out - SUPER similar at J.Crew on sale!)

DaisyGem Crystal Flower Necklace c/o (Use code BEDAZN to score it for just $15!!!)

Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Rose Gold Watch || Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in "Wild Orchid"

 

I promise I wasn't lying when I told you about my 2 ideal Thanksgiving Day outfits... here is what I wore yesterday. When I found out LuLu's carried these sequin sweatpants.. I couldn't have been more thrilled. I tweeted about them, blogged about them and finally got them just in time for the holiday season! They're actually going to be 1 of my favorite things to wear well past Christmas & New Year's because they're so damn comfy! I mean my fancy sequin pants had an elastic waistband for Thanksgiving dinner. What more could you need?

 

Let's talk jewels for a second.. this Daisy Gem statement necklace is going to get some serious rotation for the holidays. I have lots of statement pieces but none that are just regular crystal colored. DaisyGem has also been so kind to offer BAD readers the chance to scoop up this exact necklace for only $15!! Just use promo code BEDAZN when you check out. And if you spy something else on their site that you like.. no worries! You can use code BEDA15 for 15% off your entire order!! Talk about a holiday score!

 

What did you end up wearing for T-Day? We're going to visit my husband's family this weekend and I might have to pack these pants. 2 Thanksgiving dinners in 1 weekend? How lucky am I?

 

Don't forget to enter this giveaway still happening! Happy Friday! xo

 

linking up with Because Shanna Said So

What To Wear on Thanksgiving Day

 

ONE

Chambray Shirt || Thick Ribbed Leggings || Riding Boots || Leopard Scarf || Gold Bangles

 

TWO

Sequin Slouchy Sweatpants || Baseball Sweater || Pointy Toe Pump || Crystal Statement Necklace

 

I absolutely love Thanksgiving. The parades, the football, the food, the family... It's always a super fun and relaxing holiday. Which is exactly why you shouldn't stress out too much about your outfit. Let's focus on keeping your ensemble casual and chic. Chances are you'll be spending most of the day sitting, crafting, stuffing your face and enjoying life so you'll want to be as comfortable as possible.

 

Enter my 2 ideal Thanksgiving outfits. Leggings let your tummy expand after your umpteenth helping while sequin sweatpants make you feel as if you're wearing pajamas. Fancy pajamas that is. You can never go wrong with chambray or a detailed sweater - both items give you a cozy but put together vibe. If you want to go on the glam side try a pointy toe pump. Add some glittering accessories and you are all set to celebrate Turkey day!

 

Tell me.. what are your T-Day plans? Did I mention I can't wait to eat? :)

 

Pssstttt.. did you see this giveaway happening? Uhhhhhh yeah.. you read that right! Over $500 worth of items! :)

What's In My Graphic Image Nylon Tote + A Giveaway For You!!

Boy have I got a Monday surprise for you! :) In the short time this amazing Graphic Image Union Square Nylon Tote has been in my possession, it's quickly taken the place of all my previous carry-alls. I had been on the hunt for forever, looking for a large bag that I could shuttle back and forth for work when this hot pink beauty jumped into my life and solved all my traveling issues! Here's why I love it: it's roomy, is monogrammed (making it a great gift for someone), is nylon which makes cleaning it a breeze and it has several pockets inside and out to store all my little items like chapstick and hair ties so they don't get lost in the bottom, never to be seen again.

First I'm going to show you what's inside my bag and then I'll share how you can win your very own tote filled with fabulous Graphic Image and GiGi New York goodies!!

I know that I'm probably the last person on the planet who doesn't have an ipad/tablet (hoping for that to change this Christmas!) so for now I'm lugging my PC from home to work. Luckily, this tote can totally handle it. Roomy and heavy duty? Check, Check! I've got a serious sweet tooth and those who know me are aware that I am usually never without candy. Sour Patch Kids Extreme are my absolute favorite - I've been known to eat a whole bag in 1 sitting! P.S. aren't my GiGi New York key chains the cutest?

It's hard to believe that we're coming up on the holidays already! I've got major plans for 2014 and this Graphic Image notebook/planner keeps me on point. There's space for me to write down ideas as well as keep track of my appointments and blog posts.

I've said it before and I'll say it again (with pride) I am a lipstick junkie. At any given moment I've got at least 3 or 4 tubes floating around my purse (sometimes, I like to mix colors for a unique and one-of-a-kind lipstick look). Does anyone else have their gift cards on them at all times? I mean you never know when a matinee or shoe shopping trip might strike your fancy!

2 things I try to never leave the apartment without: Dry Shampoo & my Business Cards. You never know when your hair might need a pick-me-up or who your next business contact will be so I keep these items close to me at all times. This Graphic Image Metallic Mini Envelope is the perfect size to hold my business cards and easily access them when I need to. Isn't the personalization super cute?! Since I wear a lot of heels, Dr. Scholl's Rub Relief Tape is my go-to for to making your footwear more comfy. These cushiony strips have saved my blistering feet more than a time or two. No one likes a smelly-smellerson! Luckily, my favorite perfume (SJP's Covet) comes in solid form which is perfect for sprucing up after a long day in the office or running errands.

This GiGi New York Mini Phone Case makes a fabulous substitute for a wallet. It's got a few slots perfect for my ID and credit cards, a hidden pocket for money and is the perfect size to hold my cell phone. I never know when I might have a beauty emergency so mascara, lotion, a Tide Pen and blotting sheets always come in handy.

Now the exciting part for you! The items in this package are just what a fashion forward gal needs to get through her every day schedule. I've been a longtime fan of Graphic Image & GiGi so trust me when I say that they're stuff is beyond fabulous. Here is what this giveaway prize will entail!

Union Square Nylon Tote in your color of choice (can be personalized)

Graphic Image Items:

6" Pocket Datebook in your leather/color of choice (can be personalized)

Leather Wrapped Pen your color of choice

Mini Envelope Card Case in your color of choice (can be personalized)

GiGi New York Items

Mini Phone Case your color of choice (can be personalized)

iPad Mini Case (can be swapped for regular ipad Case) in your color of choice

Tassel Key Chain in your color of choice

When all is said and done, when the personalizations are stamped and the dust has settled... this giveaway package is worth well over $500!!!!!! So enter through the below rafflecopter and I can't WAIT to see what lucky gal or guy gets to scoop this one up!

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