Outfit Post: Summer LWD {Little White Dress}

 

Twelve Saturdays white lace dress (last seen here - sold out - similar here) c/o

 ILY Couture "Fan Fringe" ivory necklace

 Sole Society "Quinn" lace-up printed wedge (sold out - very similar here)

GiGi New York "All In One" clutch in fuchsia (updated magenta style here) c/o

Michael Kors "Bradshaw" rose gold watch (mini version here)

J.Crew classic pave chain link bracelet (very similar on major sale)

Vintage sunnies (similar budget find here)

 

TGIS - Thank Goodness It's Summer! I seriously love this time of the year. Any excuse to bust out a swingy white dress and wedges is fine by me. This dress has been a serious staple in my closet going from summer to fall with ease (Here's how I wore it last October) For a July night, I thought pops of pink were just the right amount of flair to add. Plus you guys went nuts over this instagram photo which further confirmed my accessory choices :)

 

Thanks to a giveaway from A Southern Soiree, the company that planned my wedding, Bill & I had a delicious date night a few weeks ago at Dean's Seafood Grill & Bar. 50 cent oysters on Wednesday? Yes, please! We went a little crazy.. okay.. a lot crazy. Just check out our spread...

 

 

2 dozen oysters, a few Basil Grape Vines & an order of muscles later, not only were our stomachs thankful for a night out, but so were we. Have you donned a little white dress this summer? If so, how did you wear it? Happy Monday! xo

 

Outfit Post: Date Night Neon Skater Dress

 

 

 

 

The Impeccable Pig neon geo print skater dress (very recent!)

 Sole Society "Kerry" perforated booties (old - very similar here)

 Marc Jacobs rose gold clutch (gift from The Stylist LA) almost identical here - and so cute!

Michael Kors rose gold "Bradshaw" watch (mini version here)

J. Crew classic pave chain link bracelet

 Vestique skull bangle (similar here)

 Blu Bijou pearl bubble bangles c/o Max & Chloe

Ginger + Liz "Show Off" (hands) & Sally Hansen "Pacific Blue" (toes) nail polish

 

When I spotted this dress on The Impeccable Pig's instagram last week, I knew I was going to fall in love with it. I mean, what's not to like? It's neon, printed, has a skater skirt and is such a flattering cut. So when I popped by last Friday during a shopping day with my mom, my feelings were confirmed - it's amazing! And when I asked you guys on instagram - you thought so too! So my wonderful mama scooped it up as an early birthday present for me. I'm so thankful that IP has fabulous budget friendly prices.. otherwise I'd be in MAJOR trouble.

 

You know that feeling when you can't freaking wait to wear something? Yeah.. you know what I'm talking about! That's how I felt about this piece. So a mid-week date night with Bill was the perfect excuse to bust it out (never mind that he was in casual chords & rainbow flip flops) I let the print speak for itself choosing neutral booties, metallic accessories and messy boho waves. It really makes the print pop don't you think? By the way - I'm still on the hunt for a new curling wand - won't you give me your 2 cents here so I can make a decision already?! Oh and if you need to hear more about my obsession love for The Impeccable Pig see this.

 

Cheers to the weekend everyone! Happy Friday!

 

 

Celebrate National Tequila Day With These Yummy Recipes

Did you know that today is National Tequila Day? No? Well me either! And as a true tequila lover I was extremely disappointed that I had no idea! So this morning I went straight to my Pinterest Board so I could find some of the tequila recipes I've pinned and share them with you! Hopefully I can try a few today with Bill!

image via

 Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita

This is one of my favorite cocktails ever - but I've never actually infused tequila with jalapeños before. This recipe makes it seem super easy. The refreshing cucumber paired with the spicy pepper... oh man. Delish!

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Strawberry Margarita Spritzer

This recipe mixes two of my favorite things.. tequila and bubbles :) Although it sounds yummy there would be a few tweeks I'd want to make. I'd use fresh berries instead of frozen.. I'd also try to figure out something else to use besides the Daiquiri mix (I'm sure it's good but so much sugar!) I also wonder if you could use champagne or prosecco without altering the taste too much.

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Skinny Beer-Garitas

I do love my drinks. But sometimes margaritas have sooooo much sugar that I just know I shouldn't have more than 1. This recipe uses splenda (which is not my fav) but would be good to try when you're looking for something that doesn't have a ton of sugar

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Citrus Margarita Spring Popsicle with edible flowers

Lately, I've been really into popsicle recipes. I have been obsessing over them! My favorites are turning drinks into icy goodness. Have you seen these edible flowers floating (hah - couldn't help myself) around the internet? They're so cute! And this pucker-up recipe is the perfect excuse to start using both popsicles molds and the edible flowers! Would be so pretty for a summer party!

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Cherry Beer Margaritas

I have serious crush on cherry flavored drinks - probably stems from my love for Shirley Temples at such a young age. This recipe combines, cherry 7-Up, beer & tequila... could you ask for anything better?

Do you plan on celebrating #NationalTequilaDay?! Share your favorite recipes!

Help Me! Clipless Curling Wand Conundrum

 

 

 

 

 

1. Jose Eber Clipless Trio Curling Iron

2. Sedu Revolution Clipless Curling Wand

3. Enzo Milano Clipless Curling Wand

4. Sultra Bombshell Curling Rod

 

Okay guys... I need your help! I am in the market for a new curling wand and want to know what you use! Some of you ladies have absolutely amazing hair so I'm desperate for you to share your secrets with me. I currently have a bed head curling iron that I removed the clamp from and it has been okay for the last year. But lately, I've noticed my hair isn't holding a curl as much as it normally does. I think this is partly due to the fact of how long my hair has gotten, but also I think this curling iron is just dying. So I'm willing to drop a few bucks on a new one. Here's the pro/con list for each of the above..

 

Jose Eber Clipless Trio - 19mm/ 3/4 inch - 25mm / 1 inch - tapered barrel

I've heard some great things about this specific wand so right now I am kind of leaning towards it. It goes up to 410 degrees with adjustable heat settings (which is super important to me) I also love that it has 3 removable barrels, allowing you to choose the curl size based on how you're feeling at that moment. I don't like that the tapered barrel has a thicker end - I thought most tapered had a smaller end since it's the root that needs more curling.

 

Sedu Revolution Clipless Curling Wand - 25mm / 1 inch

When I asked on Facebook and Twitter I had several respond that the loved their Sedu products. And while it does have temperature settings, they're only low, medium & high. I also worry about the heat because it only goes up to 350 degrees - which is still pretty hot but I've always used products with higher heat.

 

Enzo Milano Clipless Curling Wand - 25mm / 1 inch

Another great option that someone told me about is this Enzo Milano wand - out of California! The swivel cord is definitely a plus (I hate when you get all tangled up while styling your hair) but I don't like that the temperature settings are not adjustable.

 

Sultra Bombshell Curling Rod - 25mm / 1 inch

 Okay... I have had several ladies tell me that this is the curling wand and it's been on my wish list for literally years. However I had a close friend with similar hair to mine tell me that The Bombshell is too much heat for us thick, curly headed gals. She had to go back to an older iron because the heat was too much.. and unfortunately it's not adjustable (major bummer) But I can't get over how gorgeous everyone's hair is that uses it... Plus it's on major sale right now at Nordstrom!

 

OKAY so now is where you come in... I want to know what you use and if you use any of these products above. Also - spare no dirty details.. I need to know pros and cons. Please leave a comment below and let me know!!!

Outfit Post: Floral Shorts + Studded Ankle Boots

 

Prabal Gurung for Target floral shorts (similar here & here {on sale!}) || Zara studded ankle boot (similar here) || GiGi New York Uber Clutch in Indigo c/o || Michael Kors "Bradshaw" rose gold watch || J. Crew classic pavé chain link bracelet || Dogeared butterfly necklace c/o LuckyFabb West

 

You know that moment when you feel like you've finally hit your stride again? Well I don't quite have that feeling just yet.. but I am super excited about the direction our lives are taking. I think we've finally got our feet back on the ground, the dust is almost settled and I have [mostly] accepted that we are in NC.

 

I had lots of mini-dates, lunches and cocktails with new ladies last week and a shopping trip with my mom really prompted my change in attitude. My husband also went on a boys trip this weekend which allowed me to finally get my closet organized - I'll have to share some pics with you guys! I know that it will still take some time (we've only been here for 2 months!) but it's nice to be on the other side of the spectrum.. even if not towards the end yet :)

 

Speaking of mini-dates this is one of my outfits from lunch last week. It's like 90 plus degrees here but I still can't let go of my ankle booties. They're my freaking favorite and no amount of heat can stop me from wearing them. I'm practically living in the ankle boots and shorts combo. Do you have a crazy ridiculous favorite thing you wear not matter the weather? Come on and share.. don't make me feel alone! Happy Monday!

 

 

Tracy Anderson Workouts for Less!!

Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis DVD Program - 90 days - $69 (originally 110)



 

I get a lot of questions about my workout and how much I like it. Truth be told, I love it. No actually.. I am obsessed with it. It's totally changed my workout philosophy. A few weeks ago, I explained to you guys exactly what I do for my workout. Now, true to budget shopping form, I am excited to share that Tracy Anderson's products are on Gilt for a fraction of what they normally cost.

 

So if you have been wondering about purchasing her products, now is the time to do it! Diving into Metamorphosis is so amazing and life changing. I'm telling you that you will not regret it. And for this price, you really can't say no. If you already are working through months 1-3, don't worry. There are a ton of other Tracy Anderson products on sale!

 

Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis Continuity - Months 4-12 - $135 (originally $219)

After completing the first 90 days, it's time to move on to Continuity. Yay! Months 4-12 come together as a set with 3 brand new cardio DVDs to switch your routine up. I love the one where she's wearing green pants. It's my favorite one to dance to!

 

Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis Continuity Year 2 - Months 13 - 24 - $159 (originally $309)
Talk about a deal!!!!!!!!

 

Now that you've been on Metamorphosis for a full year it's time to start Year 2! Months 13-24 come all together and are really such an amazing deal compared to buying them full price. Plus, you get an additional 3 dance cardio DVDs! Which means you now have 7 cardios to choose from. And trust me, that will make a difference in enjoying the dancing portion of your workout.

 

Tracy Anderson Total Body Mini Trampoline Workout DVD & Trampoline - $59 (originally 96)

 

Tracy's newest workout is her Total Body Mini Trampoline DVD. I've never used it before but I have watched the DVD and it actually looks super fun. Will definitely workout all parts of your body - not just your legs!

 

Tracy Anderson "The Pregnancy Project" and Post-Pregnancy 2 DVDs - $49 (originally 80)

 

Though I have no intention of getting pregnant anytime soon, whenever I do I am super excited that Tracy has a program for that too! Her "Pregnancy Project" DVD has 9 workouts, 1 for every month that you are rocking your belly. Then, after the baby is born and once your Doctor gives you the go ahead to start exercising, her "Post-Pregnancy 2 Workout Series" DVD is bound to whip you in shape and get you back on track!

 

Tracy Anderson Exclusive Complete Workout Package - $69 (originally $139)

 

Lastly, in order to get through the DVD's you'll need some equipment! What you get is 1 mat, 2 purple resistance bands, wrist weights, ankle weights, water bottle & mini ball (The only missing from this package are the 3 pounds dumbbells you need for all metamorphosis workouts) Between Tracy's specific movements and these pieces of equipment, you're about to make magic happen with your body.

 

So there you have it. Whether you've drank the Tracy Kool-Aid (like me) or just thinking about dipping your toes in the shallow end, you really can't beat these Gilt Deals. Let me know if you end up purchasing anything and if you like it! If not - I might end up buying it from you. What...? You never know when you need a back-up! :)

 

all images via Gilt

7x7 Remix: Learn To Shop Your Closet!

 

Today is the day! It's finally time to reveal the 7x7 remix challenge. I was really excited when Ma Nouvelle Mode asked me to co-host and began planning my outfits immediately. At first I was a bit worried that I wouldn't be able to create enough options, but once I started switching stuff around I was coming up with outfits that I hadn't ever thought of!

I ended up creating 7 remixed looks and then 3 bonus looks on top of that proving that you can shop your closet and make pieces in your wardrobe new again. This challenge is also really great if you're planning on going on a vacation because it will help you get the most out of your clothing without stuffing your suitcase. Here's a reminder of the 7 items I chose:

 

And here is how I styled the first 7 outfits
 

Want the deets, shop my look and find out the 3 bonus outfits? Read further to find out!

Apricot Lane Durham Grand Opening Celebration

 

This past Thursday and Friday I got to participate in my first event as an official Triangle Blogger! After moving here, I discovered TriFABB, an entire community of Triangle fashion, beauty and food bloggers (and then released a collective sigh of relief when I discovered I wasn't alone!)

 

Molly from Still Being Molly (and co-founder of TriFABB) emailed me over the 4th of July asking if I wanted to participate in Apricot Lane Durham's grand opening celebration which included (eeeeeek) a fashion show! The event also benefited Transforming Hope Ministries. I was a bit hesitant about the runway part but decided to join in on the festivities anyways. And boy am I glad I did!

 

Thursday, Apricot Lane held a private event for us bloggers where we got to mingle and pick our looks for Saturday's fashion show. I was excited to finally meet some fashion/beauty/food lovers in this area and do some damage shopping! Apricot Lane is super cute and also super budget friendly! They've got tons in different areas so check out the locations to see if your state/city has one.

 

 

Me with (L-R) Rebecca from Rebecca Lately, Elise from Among Hills, Lauren from Almost Casual (you guys have to check out this foodie lovers posts! Her recipes look phenom!) & fellow budget shopper Lee from Everyday Fashion by Lee

 

 

Just a few of the looks I tried on for the fashion show

 

 

I became obsessed with this nude and neon beaded high-low dress from the moment I saw it - it's totally gorgeous in person!

 

Remember all those downpours I've been talking complaining about for the last 8 weeks? Well our show was supposed to take place outside and of course the rain decided to make another appearance. Which meant the fashion show had to be canceled - big fat bummer. However, we weren't going to let that stop us. We got have our makeup done, live modeled our looks at the store, snapped some photos and just made the most of the afternoon. It was a lot of fun and I am so happy to have made some new friends!

 

 

Getting my makeup done by the fabulous Corbin at Bare Escentuals - she gave me some amazing tips too!