THE HOT SPOT

Sunday Style

2011-12-18T12:04:00.000-05:00

Ladies there has been a lot of gorgeous looks this past week! Certain stars are rocking the events! Check out these lovely ladies:

One of my fav looks, Nina Dobrev from Vampire Diaries! Love the black lace detailing and corset top, and the bright pink heels add an extra pop! She wore a Monique Lhuillier dress paired with fuchsia Brian Atwood pumps at The Ripple Effect charity event in Los Angeles Dec. 10.

Taylor Swift looks so elegant! Wearing a pale blue strapless Reem Acra gown with House of Lavande jewels and Jimmy Choo heels at the 2011 Nashville Symphony Ball.

AnnaLynne McCord wore a strapless navy Alice + Olivia dress with matching peep-toe pumps at the CNN Heroes All-Star Tribute in Los Angeles Dec. 11. She looked spectacular!

Miley Cyrus looked pretty in a nude silk chiffon Jenny Packham gown with matching heels and jewels by Loree Rodkin at the American Giving Awards Dec. 9.

Again with the pop of bright color! Love this look on Brooklyn Decker!

Wearing a black Nha Khanh dress paired with Jimmy Choo pointed pumps at Spike TV’s 2011 Video Game Awards in Los Angeles Dec. 10. Also rocking bright fuchsia lipstick!

Also looking stunning, Jessica Biel, wearing a crystal-embellished, drop-waist Valentino dress with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and gold Christian Louboutin shoes at the New York City premiere of New Year’s Eve Dec. 7.

Photo credits: USmagazine.com

Holidy Tea Pictures

2011-12-16T14:21:00.001-05:00

Hello! I thought I would share with you a few photos from the women's holiday tea that I take part in every year at our church. It the largest outreach event for the women's ministries. Each year, we bring around 800 ladies together from the community, some that go to our church and some that have been invited by members of the church like me. I always invite my mom, my mother-in-law, my best friend, and then I try to think of other ladies to invite to fill my table of 8. As a hostess, I get to decorate my table for 8, anyway I like, with a few guidelines. A holiday theme, and certain items you must have on your table to serve tea, scones, cookies, lemon curd, devon cream, water, and such. It's always a lot of fun and gets me in the mood for Christmas!

Take a look at my table this year:

And who doesn't love to eat scones with lemon curd and devon cream?! It's the best! The baker that makes them each year, makes a wide selection of yummy scones. Like pumpkin, cinnamon, blueberry, cherry almond, and others. And besides what pregnant woman doesn't love to eat?!

Take a look at me at the tea below. Although the tea was a couple of weeks ago, you can tell how big I'm getting! lol

me with my best friend kim

I need to get better pictures on here, like from the side angle so you can truly tell how far I'm sticking out! I'm getting huge! With about 3 more months to ago! Time is flying by fast! It's hard to believe we are going to be parents in just 3 short months! It's exciting and scary at the same time!

Enjoy your weekend lovelies!

HANA Air Blow Dryer Review

2011-12-14T13:45:00.000-05:00

Hello girls! Misikko contacted me recently and offered to send me the HANA Air Blow Dryer for review! I was thrilled! I have had the same old boring blow dryer for years now and I didn't think it had much time left before it completely gave out on me, so the opportunity came at the perfect time!

For those of you that aren't familiar with Misikko, you are missing out! They are the ultimate go to source for hair products and tools! From a CHI hair dryer to curling irons too! I've reviewed some styling products for them in the past, you can click here to check that out, and I was so impressed with them the first time around, I had high hopes for this blow dryer!

Check out the package I received full of goodies!

I was not disappointed one bit!!

Not only did Brian from Misikko include the HANA Air blow dryer, I also received a heat proof pouch, a straightening comb, Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Shampoo and Super Skinny Daily Treatment, and eyelash curler, hana shine shield therapy, two bottles of sanitizer, several nail files, a hana eye mask cover, a little teddy bear, and a fake rose! I was so excited when I opened up the package and saw all these amazing products! Misikko really knows how to make a girl feel special!

Let me tell you some details about this HANA Air blow dryer:

Adjustable Heat: 2 fan speeds, 3 heat settings, plus cold shot
Ceramic Heater: Most Advanced Far Infrared Ionic Heat
Attachments: Concentrator
2,300 watts, and environmentally safe

Ion Technology- condition hair & reduces static electricity
Tourmaline & Titanium Oxide Technology- natural ions promote healthier hair
Silver Nanotechnology- for antibacterial Protection
Scratch Resistant Shell with black metallico finish adds durability and is easy to clean
Long life motor with low noise
Gyroscopically balanced for easy handling
Fiberglass concentrator
Italian Design

It's also customer's choice for best of Misiko!

Have I sold you on this product yet?!

My personal experience:

I've been using it now for a few weeks, and am so impressed with the quality of it! I have never used a blow dryer like this before. It is the Best Blow Dryer! It blow dries my hair faster, leaves it smoother, and the shots of cold give my hair a needed boost! I will never go back to the old blow dryer I was using. I would definitely recommend this to anyone! If you are in need of a blow dryer, definitely consider this one, you won't be disappointed!

For more information on the HANA Air Blow Dryer, or if you'd like to purchase it for yourself or for a Christmas gift, click here.

And thank you so much Misikko for this amazing opportunity!

Holiday Gift Idea #2

2011-12-12T11:35:00.000-05:00

Hello lovelies! I recently came across this book in The USA Today newspaper, and thought it would definitely make a wonderful gift idea for those interested in fashion or design. This book 100 Unforgettable Dresses offers a gorgeous spread on iconic dresses throughout the years. The author, Hal Rubenstein is the fashion director of InStyle and one of its founding editors. Details from Amazon:

"Featuring looks from the runway, film, television, the red carpet, and the worlds of royalty and politics, this book celebrates the staying power of these gorgeous, sleek, sultry, and outrageous creations as well as the lasting impact they’ve had in fashion, popular culture, and our own lives."

One of the dresses that caught my eye right away was SJP in Versace worn on Sex and the City! Remember this stunning gown?

Or how about Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman?

This book offers a wide range of breathtaking gowns to ones that are less attractive but definitely memorable! You can buy this book on Amazon here. It's priced at a little over $20 so not to bad of a deal if your giving or receiving! ; )

Have a lovely day girls! And don't forget to enter my $100 Shopbop giveaway! Enter here before it's too late!

photo credits: bing search engine

Holiday Gift Idea

2011-12-06T13:34:00.001-05:00

I saw this adorable little coin purse the other day and had to share it with you!

photo credit

Not sure how well you can read it in the picture, but this Kate Spade Live Colorfully coin purse says:

cents and nonsense

I thought that was super cute!

And priced at $75 this would be a cute holiday gift idea for a

stylish yet sensible fashionista!

Sunday Style

2011-12-04T13:09:00.002-05:00

Check out these lovely ladies!

Wearing her own collection on November 28th at the British Fashion Awards, can you even tell

Victoria Beckham had a baby not that long ago? Let alone, 4, is it now??!! She looks fabulous!

Elizabeth Olsen is certainly making a splash these days! Now she's not just Mary-kate and Ashley's

younger sister, she's come into her own! Good for her! She looks amazing here at the Gotham

Independent Film Awards!

Aly Michalka doesn't disappoint either! In this gorgeous red dress she really stands out at the

Super 8 dvd launch party on November 22nd! Oh how I miss Hellcats!

Jessica Alba looked fabulous wearing a sleeveless Carolina Herrera dress at the Swarovski

Elements and Rodeo Drive Lighting Ceremony!

Nicole Richie looks stunning here at the House of Harlow 1960 Pop-up shopping event!

Which star's look are you loving most?

Pictures found through US Weekly Magazine online

Don't forget to enter the shopbop giveaway!

$100 SHOPBOP GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY

2011-12-02T12:23:00.001-05:00

It's that time again girls! The Hot Spot is lucky enough to host a giveaway! And this one is open internationally too! So it includes everybody, expect for the unfortunate Pennsylvania bloggers, who are omitted from this giveaway.

But one you lucky girls will be receiving a

$100 Shopbop gift card!

So you can choose what you would like from this amazing online store! They have a wide range of fabulous clothes, from skinny jeans, to 7 for all mankind items, and they always seem to have a Shopbop sale going on! Something else I love about Shopbop, they even have maternity jeans! Which a girl in my position totally appreciates! I wish I could enter this giveaway!

Looks I'm loving from Shopbop:


Only Hearts LouLou Bodysuit


Heather Maxi Tee Dress

Philosophy DI Alberta Ferretti

Metallic Turtleneck Dress

Cute maternity option:


Rachel Pally Grecian Long Dress

I would definitely wear this dress above, but she doesn't even look pregnant!

To Enter:

It's simple!

-Leave a comment saying what you would buy with your $100 giftcard!

For An Extra Entry:

-Leave a separate comment if you're a follower of the blog for a bonus entry!

Giveaway ends Tuesday December 13th at 11:59pm!

Good luck!

It's Time To Reveal!

2011-11-29T11:53:00.000-05:00

It's been driving me crazy not being able to post yet what we found out from the ultrasound! I've been wanting to share it with all of you! Do you have any guesses???

Well I thought we were having a girl

and my husband thought we were having a boy.

Who do you think was right??

Take a look below for a major clue!


photo credit

That's right! We are having a baby boy! We are so excited!!! It was amazing seeing our little one so detailed in the ultrasound! From his head down to his little toes! And everything appears to be working as it should as growing as it should! So that's a blessing! I've just had to change my mindset from pinks to blues though, so that's been an adjustment! lol I don't know I thought it was a girl, but I was wrong! I can't wait for this little guy to make his first real appearance in late March! It's getting closer and closer! And now that we know what we are having, we can start decorating the nursery! Oh, it's going to be so much fun!

And I can start buying cute little boy outfits! I'm glad I didn't just go off intuition and buy girls clothes! That would have been wrong! :) We've already received a couple of adorable little outfits since we've found out that we are having a boy! We're lucky enough to have a lot of family and friends to surround us with love and support and that are just as excited as we are!

Thank you to all of you that have been so kind and encouraging with your comments and showing real interest in my pregnancy! It means a lot! Well, I've got to go for now, but I hope you are having a lovely day!

Natalie Portman & Baby!

2011-11-22T11:11:00.001-05:00

Ok so this is the first time I've seen a picture of Natalie with her baby! They were out and about doing some shopping!

I just think it's super cute!! And she looks great after having her baby doesn't she?? Am I too baby obsessed?? I hope not! Next post will be on fashion! Promise!

photo credit

Fall Style

2011-11-20T11:02:00.000-05:00

Pippa Middleton has been wearing some amazing outfits the last few weeks! Her looks are perfect for fall weather!

Here's my favorite look:

Perfect for fall isn't it? Cute boots and great brown shades!

Gorgeous Blue Hues

Cute boots and bag again, this time paired with some amazing shades and a lovely dress!

Bundled up in scarves!

Add some tights or leggings to these last two and you're good to go! (above and below)

She really does have fall style down! Any looks you're particularly loving?

photo credits

Thanksgiving Recipe: Bourbon Pumpkin Cheesecake!

2011-11-18T10:54:00.000-05:00

Check out this delicious Bourbon Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe that would be a great twist on the usual pumpkin pie served at Thanksgiving!

Serves 12 to 14
For crust
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (from five 4 3/4- by 2 1/4-inch crackers)
1/2 cup pecans (1 3/4 ounce), finely chopped
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

For filling
1 1/2 cups canned solid-pack pumpkin
3 large eggs
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon bourbon liqueur or bourbon (optional)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature

For topping
2 cups sour cream (20 ounces)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon bourbon liqueur or bourbon (optional)

Garnish: pecan halves

Make crust: Invert bottom of a 9-inch springform pan (to create flat bottom, which will make it easier to remove cake from pan), then lock on side and butter pan.

Stir together crumbs, pecans, sugars, and butter in a bowl until combined well. Press crumb mixture evenly onto bottom and 1/2 inch up side of pan, then chill crust, 1 hour.

Make filling and bake cheesecake: Put oven rack in middle position and Preheat oven to 350°F.

Whisk together pumpkin, eggs, brown sugar, cream, vanilla, and liqueur (if using) in a bowl until combined.

Stir together granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt in large bowl.

Add cream cheese and beat with an electric mixer at high speed until creamy and smooth, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to medium, then add pumpkin mixture and beat until smooth.

Pour filling into crust, smoothing top, then put springform pan in a shallow baking pan (in case springform leaks). Bake until center is just set, 50 to 60 minutes. Transfer to rack and cool 5 minutes. (Leave oven on.)

Make topping: Whisk together sour cream, sugar, and liqueur (if using) in a bowl, then spread on top of cheesecake and bake 5 additional minutes.

Cool cheesecake completely in pan on rack, about 3 hours.

Chill, covered, until cold, at least 4 hours. Remove side of pan and bring to room temperature before serving.

Recipe take from Smitten Kitchen

Doesn't this look so yummy? I love cheesecake and I love pumpkin pie, so the combination sounds amazing! Let me know if any of you girls decide to give this recipe a try! I'd love to hear how it turns out!

Gorgeous Greens

2011-11-16T10:08:00.001-05:00

There have been some lovely green dresses out and about on certain fashionistas!

Check out these stunners! Zoe and Gwyneth!

Either look would be perfect for a fancy Christmas party! These girls look fabulous!!

Since I'm so pale though, sometimes green shades look very unflattering on me.... some shades can make me look sickly! So I always have to be sure to wear the right shade! How about you? Does green flatter your skin tone? Any shades you avoid?

photo credits: found through bing.com

Boy or Girl?

2011-11-14T10:07:00.001-05:00

Hello girls! How are all of you doing? This week I will have more consistent posts, I'm planning ahead! So please be sure to stop by! Tomorrow we go for our ultrasound to find out if we are having a boy or a girl!

It feels like it's taken forever to get to this point, so I'm so glad it's finally here! I'm around 22 weeks right now, and I'm feeling the baby move quite often, which is so fun! The baby is at the stage where it can hear sounds now, and may respond to them in some way. Yesterday we were at church and during the worship, the baby was moving around like crazy! It was so cute! There was a lot of base and drums going on and I think the baby was responding to the vibrations coming from that, and of course it's a bit louder then how Tim and I normally listen to music. It was just so fun to feel the baby responding so much to worship music! Usually I feel the baby more when I'm lying down at night watching tv. Its common for babies to be most active at night while the mom is being still, and during the day when you're walking around more, the baby is more likely to be rocked to sleep by your movements. So anyway, it was just a treat to feel the baby move like that during church!

The suspense has been killing me, about whether we are having a boy or a girl! I don't know how some people choose to wait until the baby is born to find out! Not only is it easier to find out ahead of time, for planning purposes, I just couldn't wait! I know I'm going to start buying tons of baby stuff when we find out what we are having! It's going to be hard not too! And knowing if it's a boy or a girl will make it a lot easier to set up the nursery! Tim really likes the lion king stuff they've been coming back out with since the re-release of the movie.

I think it's super cute, but I'm not yet sure if that's what I like best. If we do have a girl do you think it's girly enough? Or do you think it's more suited for a little boy? It's got both baby Simba and Nala in it. I just don't know, I'm super girly at heart, so it might be a little weird to me if we are having a girl, and there's no pink in the room! lol

And I've always loved the Winnie pooh themed stuff too, not how Winnie the Pooh looks now, but how he did when I was growing up, either from Classic Winnie the Pooh or from The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Or other cute sets on Babys R US

I don't know! There are so many options out there! It will definitely help once we know tomorrow if the baby is a boy or a girl! Babys-R-Us has a lot of options! Do you think any of these themes are cute? Or do you have any other suggestions? I'm definitely open for ideas! Choosing a nursery theme is a big deal! :)

Also I came across this picture on we heart it. This is one stylish little kid:

Well, that's all for now! Hope you girls are having a wonderful day so far!

photo credits: Babys R US

We Heart It

My Eventful Weekend

2011-11-08T15:43:00.000-05:00

Sorry girls for the lack of consistency. It's been a challenging week. Friday night around 10pm on my way home I was on the highway going the 60mph speed limit and a deer decided it was going to appear out of nowhere and try to cross the road, right into the front of my car!

photo credit

The hood of my car went flying up into the windshield and blocked my view! The impact made me skid into the left line, thankfully there were no cars there, and then it took me a little while to get my car slowed down straightened out and finally parked on the highway! All the while with the hood still up blocking my view. It was super scary! I was by myself, I called 911, was able to get out of my car, called my husband, crying so hard it took him a little while to understand what I was saying. The police officer showed up within 5 minutes, had me shut off my car because it was leaking fluid. A fire truck showed up, and three volunteer fire trucks showed up......thankfully my husband arrived shortly after the police officer.

My car had to be towed, it may be totaled, we are waiting to hear from our insurance company, and they have supplied me with a rental car in the meanwhile. I went to the emergency room afterwards. I felt ok, just really shaken up, but I just wanted to make sure the baby was ok! Thankfully the baby is fine! They monitored the heartbeat for an hour or so and then I was released around 1 in the morning.

So yeah it's been crazy! I've never hit a deer before, and never really been in a car accident before, besides sliding off the road last winter, on the ice, but not actually coming into contact with anything. It was intense and scary! But thank goodness, God was looking out for me and my little one, something that could have been a lot worse, was hardly anything, for me and the baby anyway, the car is a completely different story! Can't wait to find out if the car is actually considered totaled or if it's worth fixing. I've only had it a little over a year, so it's sad if it's totaled. We will just have to wait and see.

I would have settled for this cute deer swear from H & M instead of an actual deer hitting my car!

photo credit

How about you? Have you ever had a scary encounter with a deer or maybe another animal? Or just a really bad car accident? Hopefully nothing too serious!

The Premiere of My Baby Bump

2011-10-25T15:20:00.000-04:00

Hi girls! I actually don't have much time today, sorry about that, but I wanted to share with you a couple photos from a few weeks ago. There from the dressing room at Kohl's. lol but I wanted to show you my baby bump, and these are the only pictures I have as of now!

As you can tell I'm already getting huge! It's hard fitting this big belly into my normal clothes, so I've had to buy some new ones, and I have an actual clothes shopping spree coming up here soon! Can't wait for it! I'm about 19 weeks right now, and for those who don't already know, full term is 40 weeks, so I'm just about half way. It's been different adjusting to my body getting bigger. Now my belly is rounding a lot, so it doesn't just look like fat to me! lol I've also gained weight in other places besides my belly, which I'm not enjoying too much, but my husband says its a good thing.

The other day I felt the baby move!! It was so exciting! I was lying down watching tv one evening, and I felt something different and hard to explain in my lower belly, and it kept up pretty consistently for a couple of hours, so it's the first time I knew for sure, that it was indeed the baby moving! I think around November 15th we should be find out if we're having a boy or a girl, I can't wait! Then I can really start shopping and planning a nursery! I think we're having a girl, but my husband thinks we are having a boy. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens!

photo credit

I've been so tired all the time and have had zero amounts of energy so it's been hard having the motivation to post and visit your blogs as often as I would like, so please just bare with me, as I'm trying.

Well, that's all for now, I hope all of you are having a lovely week!

Blake Lively

2011-10-18T14:09:00.000-04:00

Loving Blake Lively's hair in this shot of her out shopping this last week! You don't normally get to see her hair curls like this, it really looks gorgeous doesn't it?

photo credit

What do you think?

Plus, her shoes, her whole outfit, actually, doesn't she just look fabulous?? Would you go shopping in heels like that though?

I don't think I could cut it,

especially while being pregnant! :)

$39,000 BAG

2011-10-16T13:48:00.001-04:00

Ok girls, would you or wouldn't you, spend $39,000 on a bag!!!??!!

Bag in question:

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's alligator backpack:

photo credit

It was the first thing to fly of the shelves at The Olsen's Paris Launch of their new handbag collection on September 30th!

Can you believe it? I mean, it does look like a fabulous handbag/backpack, but can you imagine spending that much money for it?? I know I could never ever do so!

But if someone wanted to give it to me for free, I wouldn't mind! ; )

Tell me what do you girls think??

Curly or Straight

2011-10-14T13:25:00.000-04:00

US Weekly magazine online, had an interesting post the other day that you could vote on. It was about certain celebs and whether you preferred them with curly or straight hair. Some celebs can pull off both looks, while others do look better one way or the other.

Take a look:

Taylor Swift:

AnnaLynne McCord

Vanessa Hudgens

Jessica Szohr

Amanda Seyfried

Audrina Patridge

Zoe Saldana

Jennifer Hudson

Emma Stone

Whitney Port

What do you think? Do you prefer curly or straight hair on some of these celebs? Which girls do you think can rock both looks??

And how about for yourself? Do you prefer to style your hair curly or straight??

I usually have more hair straight, but if I have more time that day to mess around with my hair, I will add some curls!

photo credits

Look of the Day: Leighton Meester

2011-10-12T16:25:00.000-04:00

Last week Leighton Meester was spotted looking ultra feminine when she arrived at the Christian Dior runway show in a tiered LWD, with a quilted purse and paired with very cute leather Louis Vuitton pumps!

Love her hair's wavy texture and glowing makeup!

This is probably one of my favorite looks of Leighton!

What do you girls think?

Look of The Day

2011-10-10T16:16:00.001-04:00

Here's a quick look of the day, I'm loving!

photo credit

Kirsten Dunst at the New York Film Festival premiere of Melancholia, wore a plunging Chloe column and vintage Fred Leighton jewels.

Simple yet gorgeous look! I haven't really seen much of her lately either, so it's nice to see her out and about!

What do you think of this look?

70s Style Perfect For Fall

2011-10-08T15:47:00.000-04:00

I instantly fell in love with Marc by Marc Jacobs fall 2011 line! The 70s style incorporated throughout blew me away!

I absolutely love the sunglasses most of the models

wore in the show! Stunning!

What do you think, would you incorporate a little bit

of 70s into your fall wardrobe?

I think I would!

photo credits: style.com and glamour.com

She wore an itty bitty, teeny weeny......BAG!

2011-10-06T15:37:00.001-04:00

photo credit

Ports 1961 debuted this itty bitty bag during fashion week for spring 2012. What do you think of it? Pointless little purse or something you would wear?

I don't know about you, but I need a way bigger bag to carry around my essentials!! Do you?

Fall In Love with the Perfect Boots For Fall

2011-10-04T15:34:00.001-04:00

Hello lovelies! First, I want to say thanks to all of you lovely readers who left such sweet comments on my last post! You girls are the best! Also, sorry for the unexpected break of posting. But posting should go back to regular here now, so please continue to stop by.

Today's post concerns my favorite season! Fall! We all know fall is the perfect time to bring out the boots! Whether it be heeled booties or riding boots, or something in between, nows the perfect time to add them to your outfit!

I've come across some fabulous ones for fall/winter, that I know you're bound to love! Take a look!

Michael by Michael Kors Suede Wedge Bootie, $198, footnotesonline.com

Colin Stuart Fringe Boot, $148, victoriassecret.com

Jeffrey Campbell Man Boot in Grey Suede, $198, singer22.com

Adina Leopard High Ankle Boot, $160, us.topshop.com

Mia Multi-buckle High-heel Bootie, $109, victoriassecret.com

Nine West snowdrift bootie, $90, nordstrom.com

Lacey Fur Bootie, $138 loft.com

I think there's a good variety here for anybody! I especially love the leopard print ones from top shop! Those would definitely make any outfit pop!

Which ones catch your eye??

pictures: through glamour.com

BIG News!

2011-09-20T14:12:00.000-04:00

Hello girls!

It's been hard not sharing this bit of information with all of you...

You may have noticed I've been stopping by a little less at your blogs, and it's not because I don't want to read them,

it's just I've been a bit occupied lately........

photo credit: my belly!

Yep, that's right!

I'M PREGNANT!

I know some of you may think it's cheesy posting the ultrasound picture on here, but I didn't know how else to tell you! So as you can imagine, my husband and I have had a lot to keep us busy these last few months!

I'm 14 weeks pregnant!

photo credit

My husband and I have been married a little over 3 years, and we decided it was time to try to start to have a baby. I got off the pill, we bought one of those ovulation kits, and within two weeks I was pregnant! We expected it to take a little bit more time, as we've heard it usually does, but luckily we didn't have to wait long! I'm due March 23rd! And my birthday is April 5th, so we wouldn't mind if he or she was a little late.

You've notice my lack of outfit posts lately, and this is why. I'm already showing! More then I expected to at this point! I've already got the start of my baby bump! It's still so surreal. My body has definitely been going through a lot of changes!

Also, have you noticed more and more recipe posts lately? Specifically dessert ones? Cravings anyone?? I'm eating all the time! So it's not so strange that I find myself looking at yummy dessert recipes online! :)

photo credit

Anyway, I could probably go on forever, but I better not!

I just couldn't keep such wonderful news a secret any longer!

We are thrilled, and I'm thrilled to share this with all of you!

Look of The Day

2011-09-17T14:51:00.000-04:00

I guess this look was from August 31st, but I'm just seeing it now, and had to share it with you!

Diane Kruger at the Venice Film Festival.

Wearing Elie Saab Couture Gown

Stunning isn't it??

photo credit

Street Style: Would You or Would You Not?

2011-09-15T14:36:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I love looking at through street style pics. I find such inspiration, from what everyday fashionistas are wearing. It makes me think of new ideas on how to pair things.

We're going to do a Would You or Would You Not? post today. For those of you who haven't participated in this type of post before on The Hot Spot, it's really simple. I'm just going to number the street style photos below, and then in your comment, you can leave the # and put Would, or Would Not beside it, depending on whether you would wear that look or not. My answers will be at the bottom of this post. Enjoy!

My Answers:

#1 Maybe

#2 WOULD NOT

#3 Would

#4 Would Not (I don't have the body for that look : P )

#5 Would (Probably)

#6 WOULD NOT

#& WOULD ( probably my fav look )

Do we have similar answers?

Which looks are you liking?

photo credits

RTW Looks I'm Loving For Fall

2011-09-13T14:26:00.000-04:00

Summer is over ladies, and fall is here, or just around the corner for some. Fall is by far my favorite season! Not too hot, not too cool. Caramel apple cider, or pumpkin spice lattes, leaves changing colors, and being able to pull off the layered look comfortably.

Being able to wear those really cute blazers, bringing out those fun patterned tights, choosing a loose cardi or a roomy sweater to cuddle up in, pure bliss, isn't it? Without the woes of snow and ice, but the slight chill in the air, that's refreshing after those long days of heat!

I wish I could take a huge shopping spree and stock up on some new pieces for fall, but my husband and I are trying to be extra responsible, and stop spending on "unneeded" things, no matter how desired they may be! : P We will see how long this lasts......

Several designers offered a lot of amazing RTW pieces for this fall, and while we are on the topic, here are some of my favorites:

Badgley Mischka

BCBG Max Azria

Blumarine

Buberry Prosum

Moschino Cheap & Chic

Rachel Roy

Rachel Zoe

Were there any looks from other designer's RTW lines that you adored?

What will you be wearing this fall?

photo credits: www.starbucks.com, www.weheartit.com, and style.com

Spaghetti with Lemon and Olive Oil

2011-09-05T14:23:00.000-04:00

I thought since all the recipe posts I've been doing lately have been centered around sweets, it might be time for me to post something for those of you that don't really have a sweet tooth. Although, I don't understand those people that don't like sweets, I mean really how can you not like cupcakes or cobblers? lol Anyway, here's a recipe from Smitten Kitchen, that I hope you enjoy:

Spaghetti with Lemon and Olive Oil

1 pound spaghetti or linguine
Salt
3 lemons
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil , plus additional for serving
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 ounce finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 cup), plus additional for serving
Ground black pepper
Small handful fresh basil or arugula (what I used, deliciously, in a pinch) leaves, shredded

Cook linguine or spaghetti in well-salted water to your al dente tastes in a large, wide-bottomed pot. (You’ll have fewer dishes to wash if you use this pot to assemble the dish as well.)

While pasta is cooking, zest lemons until you have a little shy of a tablespoon of zest. Juice lemons — you’ll have anywhere from 1/3 to 1/2 cup lemon juice.

Drain pasta, reserving 1 1/2 cups of pasta cooking water. Dry out your pot, then boil the olive oil, cream, zest and 1 cup of the reserved pasta water together for two minutes over high heat. Return pasta to pot and stir until coated. Add the cheese and 1/4 cup lemon juice and toss, toss, toss everything together. Add more pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, if you’d like your dish a little looser. Quickly taste a strand of pasta and see if you want to add the remaining lemon juice (we did). Stir in basil or arugula and season generously with salt and pepper.

Serve immediately, drizzling individual portions with a bit of extra olive oil and sprinkling with extra Parmesan cheese

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It's sounds very simple, so most of us that aren't experienced cooks, should be able to handle this one! lol It looks yummy too! Enjoy!

Look of The Day

2011-09-03T14:10:00.000-04:00

Ashley Tisdale usually never disappoints fashion wise! I loved her look at the VMAS after party hosted by Candies!

I love this mini floral dress by Tibi, and those heels are fabulous too! Although, I think she looks great with blonde hair, I really think I loved her brunette hair color more!

What do you think? Better as blonde or brunette?

And what do you think about this lovely dress?

photo credit

Criticized For Weight

2011-09-01T13:59:00.000-04:00

I was just reading a brief article on how Demi Lovato fought back at critics who ridiculed her curvier figure on Twitter during the VMAS. I looked up a picture of what she looked like at the VMAS on Sunday.

And here it is below:

Now really?? Why would people criticize her for the way she looked? There is no problem with her weight!

What do you girls think??

This is what Demi had to say in reply:

"Guess what? I'm healthy and happy, and if you're hating on my weight you obviously aren't,"

Lovato has struggled with eating disorders throughout her life, and has had to overcome other issues as well. It's a shame people have to be negative about her body. She is a beautiful 19 year old young woman, that should only be encouraged and uplifted! I also really love the message behind her latest song, "Skyscraper"

What do you girls think about Demi being criticize for her weight?? I hope you agree, it was completely uncalled for.

Anyway, I hope you girls are having a wonderful day!

photo credit

Creme Brulee French Toast

2011-08-30T13:08:00.000-04:00

Doesn't that just sound amazing?? Creme Brulee is absolutely delicious and then to incorporate that into french toast, I really don't see how you can go wrong here!

Again, this lovely recipe is from Smitten Kitchen, and if you haven't checked out the website yet, seriously, what are you waiting for??

Creme Brulee French Toast

Makes 6 servings

Toasts
1 loaf unsliced white bread, brioche or rich bread of your choice
1 1/3 cups whole milk
2/3 cup heavy cream
4 large eggs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt or table salt
1 teaspoon Grand Marnier or another orange liqueur or 1/4 teaspoon orange zest
1 vanilla bean or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Topping
2/3 cup granulated sugar

Cut bread into 1 1/2-inch thick, generous slices; a 9-inch loaf should yield 6 slices. Whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, salt, liqueur, and vanilla extract, if using. If using a vanilla bean, halve it lengthwise and scrape the pulp into a small dish. Whisk vanilla bean with one tablespoon of custard, then whisk in another and a third tablespoon, then pour the vanilla bean-custard mixture back into the main batter. This avoids having vanilla bean clumps that don’t disperse in your batter. Don’t you hate that?

Preheat oven to 325. Arrange bread slices on the smallest rimmed tray that will fit them in one layer (encourages maximum absorption) pour custard over slices. Allow them to absorb the custard for 30 minutes, turning the slices over at one point to ensure they’re soaking it up evenly. [Do ahead: You can also soak them overnight in the fridge. No need to flip them if so.]

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer custard-soaked slices to prepared sheet, arranging them with a smidge of space between each to avoid making one French mega-toast. Flipping them halfway through if you wish, bake French toast slices for 30 to 35 minutes, until a slim knife inserted into the center of a slice and twisted ever-so-slightly does not release any wet custard. Keep warm until ready to serve.

To caramelize the tops:

Either leave toasts on their baking sheet, or transfer to a serving platter. Have ready a small offset spatula and a potholder or trivet to rest your caramel pot on.

Melt remaining 2/3 cup sugar in a small, heavy, completely dry saucepan over moderate heat, stirring with a small spoon or fork until fully melted and the color of honey. Move it over to the potholder or trivet you’d set up and working quickly, spoon one generous tablespoon caramel over your first slice of toast, spread it thinly and evenly with your offset spatula and repeat with the remaining toasts. Because your caramel will continue to deepen slightly in color (veering towards almost-too-toasty) as you work, it’s best to work quickly but carefully. Let no fingers or forearms be harmed in the melted sugar’s path and should a single drop land on the counter or on your towel or on the rim of the plate, do not swipe it. Just leave it until it cools.

[Hot water will melt all hardened caramel and make your clean up job easy. Simply soak your pot/spoon/spatula and all will melt off.]

Serve with fresh berries and if you’re feeling extra fancy, loosely whipped cream. We don’t find that it needs any maple syrup.

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Next time I have french toast, it's definitely going to be like this! I'm probably going to fatten up if I eat all these yummy desserts I keep posting about. Can't you tell my mind is a bit focused on sweets lately??

Would you try this?

Look of the Day

2011-08-28T13:03:00.000-04:00

A look I'm loving of Olivia Wilde!

Recently spotted at a vintage flea market in California looking very bohemian!

Wearing a maxi dress with her Ralph Lauren Collection fringed bag and a pair of Ray-Bans. A look I would definitely wear, would you??

photo credit

Pinks, Blues, and Yellows too

2011-08-26T12:37:00.000-04:00

Hey Girls!

I was wondering what you've been thinking about a certain trend that seems to becoming more and more popular as of late. Bright colored highlights/streaks throughout ones hair. Not you normal hues of blonde and caramels, but blues and pinks, and neon yellows.

Is this a trend you see yourself following? Or just enjoying from a far?

Take a look at some of the most recent celebrities to take the hair plunge!


Katy Perry opted for the all over pink this month

But back late 2010 she tried out a rainbow of colors in her dark hair.

Which look of hers do you like best?

Kate Bosworth has recently change her blonde hair blue but only on the ends!

Lauren Conrad also added a few blue streaks to her ends as well! A little less noticeable though then Kate's.

Dianna Argon covered most of her blonde hair in bright pink. She recently tweeted it was for work though. So not something she did on her own accord.

Lady Gaga has never been afraid of color. But really what has she ever been afraid of?

One surprising bold hair color move I did love for sure, wasn't recently, but rather back in 2007, when Rachel McAdams showed up at a premiere with pink streaks in her blonde hair. Do you remember that? It actually really worked on her!

photo credits

Do you like any of these looks? Is this a trend you plan on trying out yourself? Or are you not really liking this bold new hair trend??

White & Dark Hearted Brownies

2011-08-24T12:06:00.002-04:00

Hey girls!

I think I am obsessed with sweets these days! I find myself looking over tons of yummy recipes on Smitten Kitchen's website! It's become a new fav of mine!

This recipe is super cute and incorporates something I've never had before, white chocolate brownies! So read on girls, you won't be disappointed!

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This recipe makes 16 2-inch square white or dark chocolate brownies. To make a pan of each and reverse the middles, you’ll need double the ingredients listed below. You will end up with 32 reversed-center brownies.

3 ounces (85 grams) semisweet or good white chocolate, coarsely chopped
1 stick (4 ounces or 113 grams) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing pan
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (6 1/8 ounces or 175 grams) sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla
1/4 teaspoon table salt or 1/2 teaspoon flaky salt (about 2 grams)
2/3 cup (83 grams) all-purpose flour

1-inch heart or other shaped cookie cutter

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over opposite sides of pan. Repeat with second piece of foil in opposite direction. Butter foil.

Melt white or dark chocolate and butter together in a large bowl over a simmering pot of water (or in the microwave in 30 second bursts, stirring between each) until it is 90% melted; remove from heat and stir the mixture until it is smooth. (I do this too keep things from getting too hot.) Whisk in sugar. Whisk in eggs, one at a time, then vanilla. Add flour and salt together, stirring until just combined. Spread into prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes (for the dark chocolate version) and 30 to 35 minutes (for the white chocolate version).

Repeat this recipe with the other kind of chocolate and a second 8×8-inch square pan. If you don’t have two matching square pans (understandably) simply wait until you can remove your brownies from the pan as directed in the next step, and start again.

Cool pans on a wire rack in the freezer if you’re going to make cut-outs; frozen brownies are much easier to make clean cuts from. Once solid, transfer brownies in their foil “sling” to a large cutting board and cut each pan of brownies into 16 even squares, about 2×2 inches each. Still cold (and if they warm up and soften too quickly, pop them back in the freezer for 5 minutes), carefully, slowly, gently, press your cookie cutter into the center of each brownie and set the cut-out aside. Insert the dark cut-outs into the centers of the light brownies, and vice-versa. From here, you can let them warm up to room temperature or wrap them up in the freezer until you will need them.

Don't these look adorable?! And super tasty right? Let me know if you try out this recipe and how it goes for you! Good luck!

A Hair How To

2011-08-22T14:21:00.003-04:00

I was on Lauren Conrad's website the other day, and it is so much fun actually! She has so many interesting catergories to check out, like yummy foods, what to wear, primping, celebrating, decorate, etc. A wide range of helpful tips!

I thought the post titled "The Fun Bun" was very useful! So I thought I would share it with all of you! A quick and easy look for your hair!

Follow these steps:

Step 1: If your hair is straight, use a 1″ curling iron to curl everything under. This will make it easier to tuck pieces into the bun. When they’re straight, they tend to pop out more. If you have wave or curl you can skip this step if you want to.

Step 2: Flip your hair over and gather everything into a ponytail on top of you head, securing it with an elastic ponytail holder.

Step 3: On the last time around with the ponytail holder, only pull the ponytail through half way.

Step 4: Take the loop you’ve created and spread it out. Don’t over think it. Just widen it and allow it to be somewhat messy.

Step 5: Take the tail end and wrap it around the ponytail base.

Step 6: Pin the end of the ponytail to the base using a couple of hair pins/bobby pins.

Step 7: Gently pull on pieces and then pin them. This will give your top-knot a slightly more messy texture.

Step 8: Spray a veil of medium hold hairspray all over. Don’t smooth down all of the fly aways, just lightly tuck the pieces that have gone rogue!

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I like putting my hair in a bun every now and then! How about you?

This is a look I am definitely going to try out! Will you?

For more on this look and other Lauren Conrad goodies click here.

Blueberry Boy Bait!!

2011-08-20T14:04:00.000-04:00

After seeing this photo of these delicious sweets, I couldn't help but post about them! This recipe was found on SmittenKitchen.com, which is new to me, but very appealing! I would definitely recommend checking this website out!

Blueberry Boy Bait

Serves 12, generously
2 cups plus 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon table salt
16 tablespoons unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (though buttermilk, which was all I had on hand, worked just great)
1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen (if frozen, do not defrost first as it tends to muddle in the batter)

Topping
1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen (do not defrost)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cake: Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 13 by 9-inch baking pan.

Whisk two cups flour, baking powder, and salt together in medium bowl. With electric mixer, beat butter and sugars on medium-high speed until fluffy, about two minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until just incorporated and scraping down bowl. Reduce speed to medium and beat in one-third of flour mixture until incorporated; beat in half of milk. Beat in half of remaining flour mixture, then remaining milk, and finally remaining flour mixture. Toss blueberries with remaining one teaspoon flour. Using rubber spatula, gently fold in blueberries. Spread batter into prepared pan.

For the topping:
Scatter blueberries over top of batter. Stir sugar and cinnamon together in small bowl and sprinkle over batter. Bake until toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool in pan 20 minutes, then turn out and place on serving platter (topping side up). Serve warm or at room temperature. (Cake can be stored in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days.)

I haven't tried this yet, but I think I'm definitely going to! It looks too good to pass up! Let me know if any of decide to give this a try, and if you make any alterations! Good luck! And if you want, you could always send me a batch in the mail! ;)

Lauren Conrad's Paper Crown Collection

2011-08-18T13:36:00.008-04:00

I'm sure some of you have seen some of Lauren Conrad's newest clothing line, but for those of you that haven't you definitely need to check it out! Paper Crown has some amazing pieces.

Take a look at Paper Crown's fall lookbook! Here are some of my favs!

I love the look of leather throughout the collection! It's probably just faux leather, which would be better, and those "leather" shorts are probably one of my favorite pieces from this collection! Those tan shorts are super cute too! The long flowy feminine dress paired with the tough "leather" jacket is a fabulous combo!

So do you like what you see? What are some of your favorites from the collection? To check out the rest of Paper Crown's fall lookbook click here.

photo credits

Yummy Recipe!

2011-08-16T13:30:00.001-04:00

Hey girls!

Sorry my posts have been a bit scattered and few lately. So much has been going on in my life, and in a couple of weeks I will be able to share all of that with you. Also, we recently haven't had internet at home, so it's always challenging finding a place to create posts, when not having access at your home. So it's been a bit frustrating. And you've all been well missed!

Today I have a yummy recipe to share with you! Sorry it's not fashion related, but it is delicious, so hopefully that will do! :)

Quick Date-Apple-Cinnamon Oatmeal

Makes 1 serving

Ingredients

1 cup organic rolled oats
2 tablespoons maple syrup (you can use less, or you can use brown rice syrup to make it more superhero!)
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
1/3 crisp apple, cut in cubes
About 5 dates, pitted and chopped
Fine sea salt to taste
3 shakes of ground cinnamon
Scant 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil

Steps

Bring a kettle of water to boil
Combine the oats, syrup, nuts, apple, and dates in a bowl
Add a pinch or two of salt, then pour enough hot water to just cover the oats (don’t add too much, or it will be too watery)
Cover the bowl with a plate or pot lid, and let the oatmeal stand until the oats have absorbed the water
Stir, and add a little more water if the oats look too dry
Let the oatmeal cool a little, and then drizzle with the flaxseed oil

This recipe is from The Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone. If you haven't looked through this cookbook yet, you definitely should! Doesn't that oatmeal look like the best oatmeal you have ever seen??!! For those that have a nut allergy, like me, you can just exclude the walnuts, and eat the oatmeal as is, or add something else to it in place of the walnuts. Like another type of dried fruit or something! Quite yummy! And doesn't it sound so simple? I think anyone could make this, no matter your cooking abilities!

Enjoy girls!

picture credit

New Maxi Skirt Outfit Post

2011-08-02T15:12:00.000-04:00

Hello girls! It's been a while hasn't it? It certainly has been ages since an outfit post especially! So I thought The Hot Spot was definitely due for one!

I've been wearing a lot of maxi skirts this summer! I've never really gotten into the maxi skirt trend up until now. I've always thought that since I'm so short, it might not be a good look for me. I'm 5'3, so I usually avoided the longer skirts etc.

I did buy one maxi dress last summer though, and really have loved it. So this summer I've bought at least two maxi skirts. I'm not big on wearing shorts, and it's been so ridiculously hot the last couple months, so skirts have been perfect! They aren't tight, but rather loose and airy, perfect for those humid days!

I love all the colors in this one! I think it's best to wear something simple on top when wearing a maxi skirt, especially one that is so colorful. I found this belt the same day I bought the skirt and thought they would go perfectly together.

I just love how this maxi skirt sways with me when I walk, and swooshes back and forth if I turn. I tried twirling in the air to capture the spinning of these lovely colors!

What have you been wearing that helps in this super hot weather that most of us are enduring??

What gets you though the heat?

wearing:

white top and tank underneath-Miley Cyrus and Max Azria for Walmart

Maxi Skirt, Brown belt, and earring: Forever 21

Black flip flops: Kohls

Summer Music Festivals Attire Guest Post

2011-07-26T13:32:00.000-04:00

Hey girls! Sorry for the unexpected absence from the blog, I would have warned you had I known I was going to be gone for that long! It's been incredibly sad being out of touch with you girls the last few weeks! I've got a guest post to share with you today and hope to back into the full swing of things here in this next week! I hope all is well with all of you!

Now here's a lovely guest post from Alessia of Luello.com with her tips on what to wear to those fun summer music festivals! Enjoy!

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When you’re a student there is nothing more satisfying thanhaving the sun’s rays beat down on you as you lounge by the pool and recoverfrom months or tortuous papers and text books. Apart from engaging in generalsloth, summer music festivals count as one of the more anticipated events tofill your summer itinerary with.

With the Coachella music festival already behind us, thetask of formulating a comprehensive style guide of how to look festival-chic isever simplified!

Do: Stay conscientious of the heat-- wear cut-off denimshorts! They’ll allow you to stay breezy and look cute.

WilliamRast Scarlet 867 Denim Short

Do: Keep comfort in mind by wearing a loose-fitting croptop. Summer music festivals mean spending hours upon hours standing up in theheat and fighting crowds. Ensure your comfort by pairing your denim shorts witha breezy cropped tee in a fun color.

ColorfastBurnout Crop Top

Do: Accessorize with a floppy hat for both style andpracticality, à la Rumi Neely (of Fashion Toast) at Coachella. Look boho chicand protect yourself from the sun’s rays!

Do: Opt for classic sunglasses like these wayfarers worn byone Coachella festival-goer. Not only will they tie your retro-bohemian looktogether, they’ll provide you with much needed relief from the sunshine!

Do: Drink lots of water. Dehydration is not stylish. Drink upto be able to enjoy the performances and endure as long as possible! Choose areusable water bottle to help reduce waste, and to be able to continue to fillit up throughout the day!

KORDelta Hydration Vessel

Whether you’re headed to Lollapalooza, Osheaga or any of themyriads of music festivals going on this summer for your auditory pleasure,follow this style guide and be sure to be dressing thoughtfully and stylishly!

To see the products featured here, or to see more designs byWilliamRast or Colorfast,visit Luello.com!

Fashion Faceoff: Who Wore It Better

2011-07-02T12:12:00.000-04:00

BLAKE LIVELY & BROOKLYN DECKER

Blake Lively and Brooklyn Decker were recently spotted wearing the same Tibi frock. While Blake chose the blue shade, Brooklyn opted for white. Although both girls look stunning, I think I like how Brooklyn accessorized with the vest and leopard purse better! Blake's leopard pumps are amazing though!

SELENA GOMEZ, DIANE KRUGER, ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO, & KATE BOSWORTH

photo credit

Not very often do you see four celebs rocking the same dress! But these four ladies had their own take on this Dolce and Gabbana white mini! Normally I love Kate Bosworth's looks, but I think this dress is a bit too fancy to be paired with that jacket. I love Diane's pumps! And I think Selena look's stunning! But then again, when doesn't she?

JENA MALONE & JESSICA LOWNDES

A few months back Jena Malone and Jessica Lowndes were both seen glammed up in this Camilla and Marc dress! Both look gorgeous in my opinion, but I think I slightly prefer Jena Malone's longer version!

AIMEE TEEGARDEN & ALI FEDOTOWSKY

Back in the spring, these two lovely ladies chose The Hellers romper, one in orange and one in navy. Both look cute, but I think I really like the orange shade better and Aimee's pumps go so perfectly!

If you were a celeb and you actually saw another celebrity recently wearing a dress you were planning on wearing to an event soon, would you still wear it? Or if you happened to wear the same dress to an event or just on the same day as another star, would it bother you? Would you be bummed that someone else had the same outfit? How would you feel about being compared?

pictures: www.peoplestylewatch.com and www.fabsugar.com

Weight Loss

2011-06-30T13:30:00.005-04:00

Now this isn't about my weight loss, because I haven't lost any weight recently, but this post is actually about Raven Symone! I will admit I have watched That's so Raven before, I'm not going to lie!

Anyway, I'm obviously a bit behind here, but I recently saw Raven Symone, not in real life, of course, in a magazine, and she looked so different!! It was shocking! So I did some research and found some pictures to share with you! I guess she debuted her new look during the spring, and I just must have missed it.

From what I've gathered she's lost about 80 some pounds, so it's really a drastic change!

She looks so different, right??

I know this image above is pretty dark, I couldn't find a brighter one,

but I wanted to share it because I love those sparkly shorts and heels!

She looks fabulous!!

What she says about her weight loss:

"I thought I looked fabulous before and nobody else did," she told PEOPLE. "So, whatever."

says she's breathing a sigh of relief over no longer having to deal with her show (That's So Raven) – the strain of which, she says, contributed to her weight gain. (from People mag)

photo credit

"That's what stress does to you," Symoné says. "I've been not stressing. I've been in my own house, decorating and finding hobbies."

'I liked it before. Now, you're just looking at me for the wrong reasons. Before, you were actually looking at me for a real reason.'

From Vibe magazine:

On reactions to her weight loss
I find it funny that people now come up to me and say, ‘Wow, you are absolutely gorgeous’. I’m like, ‘I was beautiful before I lost weight. Egotistically speaking, I thought I was amazing’

On why she keeps it PG 13
It’s not so much about showing my sexy side because of the kids, I have to answer to my mama and brother, my dad and my grandparents, the ones I have to look in the eyes every day when I take my weave and eyelashes out.

I'm really impressed with her weight loss! I think she looks fabulous, and I also think she has her head on straight! It's nice to see that she thought she was beautiful before, and doesn't have a "I have to be stick thin complex"! What do you girls thing about her new look??

She has a new tv show called "The Great State of Georgia" that just recently premiered on ABC Family.

I've not seen it, but I've been hearing really good things about it!

pictures founds through bing search engine

Bold Summer Trend: BRIGHT COLORS

2011-06-28T13:29:00.000-04:00

Want to add that extra pop to your look this summer? It's easy and definitely something celebs have already begun! Add a bright color to your outfit and really standout! Whether it's a bold colored pair of paints, or a bright colored nail polish, these looks will surely make you eye catching!

The Bold Trousers!

Jessica Alba, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Katharine McPhee are all looking red hot!

Doesn't Jessica look fabulous with her baby bump??

Elisabetta Canalis is rocking those hot pink pants!

I think I would pair those pants with a white tee though.

What would you pair them with?

Blake Lively was spotted wearing these bright blue trousers while filming gossip girl earlier this year.

I'm not sure if those cropped pants would be flattering on me, but Blake looks lovely in them!

BRIGHT TOPS!

Orange Blazers

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Rachel Bilson, Camilla Belle, and Olivia Palermo. These girls always look good and hardly ever disappoint! I think Olivia's look is more suited for fall though, with those pants. Camilla is pulling off the color blocking trend perfectly! Who knew those colors would look so good together! She's got brights from head to toe! And last, but certainly not least, Rachel Bilson looks so petite and super pretty in that summer dress paired with that stylish blazer!

Minka pairs a purple tank with a simple white maxi skirt. It's good to not over do it if you're choosing to wear a bright color. Not everyone can pull off the color blocking trend, so it's a safe bet to pair a bright hue with a more subdued color on bottom or top.

BOLD ACCESSORIES

Not wanting to overdue it? A little skittish of the neon colors?

Try incorporating them in smaller doses with accessories that pop!

Nails

AnnaLynn McCord's neon yellow nail polish doesn't look outrageous at all.

It stands out in a good way!

Purses

Even though Ashley Tisdale's whole outfit is fabulous,

it's her yellow purse that grabs your attention!

ALL OVER BRIGHT

Maybe you're not afraid of really going for it! Being the boldest girl out there! If so, then you should give the color blocking trend a try. It really surprises me what colors actually look good together, some I would never have thought of!

Rihanna's got the color blocking trend down.

With a purple top, orange pants, and daring red hair, you can tell she's not afraid of mixing colors!

Although, I'm not sure many people can pull off this extreme of a look, do you??

Leona Lewis isn't scared of color either!

In fact, she has been wearing the color-blocking trend repeatedly!

What do you girls think? Are you incorporating bright, bold colors into your wardrobe this summer? Have you started out small with only accessories or are you going big and trying out the color-blocking trend? Or maybe you're somewhere in between?

pictures: www.usmagazine.com

www.bing.com

Summer Lovin

2011-06-18T12:32:00.000-04:00

Summer is here, and hopefully most of you are enjoying it! For those closer to my age, and out of school, we don't really get a summer break, work is full time, all year round, but least we can enjoy the warmer weather and maybe take a vacation or two?

photo credit

Maybe a road trip? Or simply just a day at the pool? You'll need your nails on your hands and your toes looking their best! Flip flops and other peep toe heels do show your little toes off to the world! So prepare yourself and buy some new shades of nail polish! One or maybe even 6, or 7, never really hurt anybody, right? lol

Here are some of the shades that are perfect for summer!!

ESSIE NAIL POLISH IN VERMILLIONAIRE

Bright orange is perfect for summer, especially if you have a nice tan to go with it!

ESSIE NAIL POLISH IN MOD SQUAD

A girlie shade of pink is always a must for me!

BERNADETTE THOMPSON NAIL POLISH IN LOVE AFFAIR

This is a lovely coral shade, a great mix of orange and pink, that is fitting for summer!

Not feeling these hues? Try something blue!

OPI NAIL LACQUER IN NO ROOM FOR BLUES

This light blue shade pops and is just the right hue of blue that's perfect for a day at the pool!

ESTÉE LAUDER PURE COLOR IN WICKED GREEN

You don't have to be wicked to wear this color! Green is definitely a statement making color!

Want a softer shade of green? Try this shade from OPI's Pirates collection

OPI'S MERMAID'S TEARS

Or maybe you really just want some bling? OPI has that covered too!

OPI SPARK DE TRIOMPHE

You can show of all the glitz and glamour your want, with a shade like this! Bold and eye-catching, not one for the tame.

What shade will you be wearing this summer?

info and pics found through allure.com, opi.com, and bing

Mini Post: Emma Watson

2011-06-16T12:17:00.020-04:00

What do you think of Emma Watson's July 2011 photo shoot for Vogue US?

Here's a glimpse! For more check out Vogue.com

pictures: vogue.com