Outfit Post: Chainlink Trim Contrast Dress

Hello girls!  I hope you all had a lovely weekend!  This week is going to be a tough one for me!  You may have noticed my absence from your blogs, but I will be making rounds today, to check out the latest on all your amazing blogs, that I'm sorry I've been missing.  My family has a lot going on.  I don't want to go into too much detail because it involves people that may not want to be mentioned here, but anyway, stressful times, to say the least.  So please just keep my family in your thoughts and prayers throughout the week.  This Monday in particular is going to be a trying one, in which I'm not looking forward to.  Scared, actually.......

Let's move unto something more uplifting, ok?  Well, I guess I don't know about uplifting, necessarily, but I got a mini outfit post to share with you girls!  So that's kind of exciting, right? 

I wanted to share with you an outfit from the cruise we went on for Christmas.  Looking back at my pictures I noticed a lot of pictures of the ship, and of my husband, but not so much of myself, which is what happens when you're behind the pink camera!  We also got some professional pictures taken of my husband and I on the formal night, but I don't have a scanner, so I'm trying to figure out how I can show you those.  In the mean while, in the next few days I will show you random outfits from the vacation!

I bought a couple new dresses from Forever 21 before the cruise.  I was in need of a few cocktail type dresses.  This one is called Chainlink Trim Contrast Dress.

Although they don't seem to carry the purple/magenta top colored one I got in mid December, online you can buy a pink top/ with the black bottom like shown below:

What's great about this dress, is that it's only $19.80!!  I think that's an awfully good deal for a semi dressy dress!  Don't you?

I paired it with this ring, 

which you can't see as well with this outfit, but I've been wearing it like crazy lately!  It's such a statement piece!  I had been looking for a large ring for a long time, but I couldn't find one that fit me properly and that I really liked,  but on this one, it's a strechy band so it will fit on any finger!

 You can also find this ring at Forever 21.  It's called Jeweled Flower Ring and is priced at $5.80!  I love the antique feel to it, and how large it really is!  Very eye catching! 

I'm also wearing:

Headband:  Claires (I myself, haven't shopped there in ages, but we had bought a few headbands for a young teenage girl and while wrapping this one up for Christmas, I peeled the price tag of the side and it ripped some of the coloring off, so not really suitable for a gift, but I can camouflage it with my hair well enough)

Black Heels:  Simply Vera by Vera Wang

Dress & Ring: (As mentioned above) Forever 21

What have you girls been wearing lately?  

Any new buys or trying out a new trend/piece you haven't sported before?  

How's your week going so far?

Fill me in and have a lovely afternoon!

Healthy Snacks

Just wanted to share with you girls a few yummy things I recently came across.  I'm trying to find new options for healthy snacking and I found a semi local store that had some random organic items scattered throughout.  This was the first item I came across:

Bare Fruits: Organic Dried Mango

 I enjoy dried fruit, but not all the ones you find in the stores are organic,  this company Bare Fruit, which was new to me, offers several options for dried fruits and fruit chips.  All organic, all made in a NUT FREE facility (which can be difficult to find sometimes, so I cherish companies like this, when I find them, since I have a nut allergy!)  It's gluten free, no added sugar, preservatives, or additives.  Mango is the only one I have tried so far, but they offer dried pear, which I want to try next, as well as, dried apples (different varieties) dried cherries, and a few others.  Check out their website here.  So good, you won't be disappointed!

Another tasty organic treat I came across is:

Go Naturally Organic Hard candies 

I bought a bag of the pomegranate flavor and it was very delicious! Made handmade in America, gluten free, natural flavors and colors.  You get 4 pieces for 60 calories.  The picture isn't the greatest quality but they offer flavors such as apple, cherry, ginger, honey, honey lemon, and of course the pomegranate.  Check out their website here. 

I also wanted to mention one of my favorite companies that I came across this last year.  It's called:

Enjoy Life.  

This food company avoids 8 of the major allergens out there!  Which is why I love them!  They never use or come in contact with the following eight:  

wheat/gluten, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, soy, fish or shellfish
 
Having a nut allergy I have to pay attention to labels all the time on foods, especially sweets.  Having this company avoid them entirely makes me confident in my purchases!  Some of you may not know how difficult it is to find chocolates that a person with a nut allergy, can actually have.  Before I came across Enjoy life, I was limited to Andes Mints and Junior Mints.  Enjoy Life has actual chocolate bars that I can munch on!  When I found these in my local Martin's store and the health food store I bought all the 3 varieties of their chocolate bars!!  As well as some chewy snack bars. 
 

 The Boom dark chocolate bar and the rice milk chocolate bar are both vegan as well!!
 The chewy snack bars I've mentioned are just as good and also vegan!

I've had the caramel apple and the cocoa loco flavors but they also offer sunbutter crunch, and a very berry flavor.  Enjoy Life makes a wide range of products, like cereals, granola, cookies, bagels, and more.  Please check out their website here. 

Have you girls found any organic healthy snacks out there?  I'd love to know what ones you enjoy!  There may be some that are new to me, that I would love to learn more about!

I also always try to snack on plenty of fruits.  Here lately, I've been loving grapefruits!  So yummy and rich with vitamin C!  I recently tried an Asian pear for the first time, and it was so delicious!  I love regular pears but this type of pear is different.  It's crunchy like an apple!  Love it!  Apples are another favorite of mine as well! How about you?

When you snack healthy, what do you eat?

My Favorites at This Year's Golden Globes

Hello girls!  I hope your week is off to a good start so far!  Did any of you happen to watch the Golden Globes on Sunday?  I caught bits and pieces, and then later on saw some of the clips replayed, the ones showing the mean spirited comments from Ricky Gervais were everywhere!  I usually like Ricky Gervias.  It think he's a funny guy, but from what I've seen and heard, this year at the Golden Globes he was a bit too much for people.  Harsh on a lot of topics.  But enough about him, what we really care about is the fashion, right??  I know I do!

There were some beautifully dressed women, some so-so gowns, and then some hideous ones as well!  I had two absolute favorites from the night, and some that weren't my favorites but still definitely worth noting!  Take a look:

Anne Hathaway:

Anne's wearing a sequin studded Armani Prive gown.  I didn't really care for the puffed sleeves, but the material of the dress and the open back are just gorgeous!

Jennifer Love Hewitt:

I've always thought Jennifer is so pretty and was terribly bummed to see Ghost Whisperer come to end, but at least she was nominated for her Lifetime movie this year.  Although I didn't see it, I've heard really great things about it, The Client List.  Don't you think she looks really beautiful here?  She's wearing a Ramona Keveza gown.

Sandra Bullock:

I don't love this look, but I don't mind it either.  It's pretty, but not too eye-catching.  What do you think, are her and Ryan Renyolds really together or just friends?  Something you would like to see happen?  I think most of America wants to see the lovable Sandra happy and in love, but with whose best, I have no idea! :)

Hailee Steinfeld:

I loved how this newcomer from the movie True Grit, dressed so age appropriate!  You hardly see that these days, but this only fourteen year old, chose wisely and looks so pretty in this Prabal Gurung halter gown! 

Claire Danes:

I'm not a huge fan of Claire Danes, but I think this is a lovely shade of pink

Emma Stone:

Emma's wearing a Calvin Klein sheath.  I didn't even realize this was Emma Stone at first!  I knew she had dyed her normally red hair, blonde for a movie role, but she just looks so different here.  I like that she's not trying to be overly sexy, but the tone of the dress is pretty close to washing her out.  I think her makeup and hair looks stunning though!  What do you think about the new hair color?

Worst Dressed: Helena Bonham Carter:

I don't even know where to begin on this look.......It's a Vivienne Westwood gown.  She's wearing mismatched shoes, those glasses, the hair..... Oh dear, just not working!

Now onto my 2 favorites!!  

Natalie Portman:

I know some people have been critical of this strapless Viktor & Rolf layered satin gown, but I don't understand why.  It's the first time I've really got to see her baby bump very well, and I thought this gown did a beauitful job of showing it off in a classy way.  Some women look so radiant when they're pregnant, and I think Natalie definitely falls into that category!  She's glowing and gorgeous! 

My absolute favorite:  

Olivia Wilde:

In this strapless sequin and tulle Marchesa ball gown she steals the show!  And take a look at those killer heels hiding underneath?! She looks so stunning and the shade of the dress works well on here!  Plus, I don't mind some sparkles!!

What do you girls think??  Any certain gowns catch your eye??  Who dressed the best from this set?  Are you loving Natalie's and Olivia's looks as much as I am? 

Photos credits here,  here and here.

Have a wonderful night ladies!!

If I Had An Afro

You're probably wondering what on earth I'm talking about, or where I'm headed with this girls....

I do infact have something amazing to show you!  I came across this gorgeous spread that was originally published in Elle's September 2010 issue.  Titled: New York State of Mind.  If I had an afro, this is what I would want it to look like:

Laurie Bartley photographed by Georgie Badiel looks so stunning doesn't she??  I know I could never pull off an afro hair do but she most certainly does!  And the way the photographer captured New York and the lighting in all the photos, just breathtaking!  My favorites are probably the first and last photos.  The outfits in those two are very sleek and stylish!  How about you??  Any favorites??  For more photos from this spread can be found here. 

I hope you girls are having a relaxing Sunday and enjoying the last day of the weekend!  Did you do anything fun or exciting?? It was a pretty basic weekend for my husband and I.  Filled with reading and coffee and the warmth of the indoors. Can't complain! 

pictures: www.fashiongonerogue.com

Vogue Italia: Featuring Keira Knightley

Hello there girls! I hope you are having a wonderful Friday and preparing for the weekend!  Today's topic is Vogue.  Vogue is a a magazine loved by most fashionistas, and other parts of the world offer there own version of Vogue as well.  This shouldn't be anything new to you though, you girls are all so knowledgable when it comes to fashion! :)

I think it's interesting how even though they are all Vogue magazines they offer such different looks and ideas throughout each magazine.  Like Vogue Italia, Vogue UK, and Vogue Japan, all different from the US's Vogue, but all beautiful in their own way.  Set apart from one another. 

I love seeing celebrities or models that I enjoy reading about in US magazines, in other countries' magazines.  You sometimes see a different side of that person or at least see them presented in a way you haven't seen before.  Like Keira Knightley for example.  I think she is very pretty and a good actress, so she caught my eye when I noticed her spread in Vogue Italia's January Issue.  Take a look:

There's several more pictures of Keira in this spread.  To check those out, click here.  Keira wore a clothes from 2011 spring collections from Valentino, Chloe and others.  She was styled by Leith Clark and photographed by Ellen von Unwerth.  Who I think did a fabulous job.  These shots, most of them being in black and white, have a beautiful vintage feel to them.  What do you think??  Keira look pretty?  Gorgeous photos??

I hope you like them!  

And that you have an awesome weekend!  

pictures: www.fashiongonerogue.com

Scarves: Find One Best Suited For You

Hello girls!  How's your Wednesday going??  I hope all is well!  Sadly, Indiana keeps piling on the snow, and I know we aren't the only state faced with chilly days and bitter cold nights.  Ready for spring yet?  I know I sure am!  

Hopefully today's post will help get you through the cold, or at least help you look stylish, while doing so!  A key accessory one should have this time of year is a scarf.  Many of you might already have one or two in your closet, maybe even a dozen, (with some out there being so reasonably priced).  It doesn't hurt to add a few more to your collection.  With going out in this weather, most of us have to wear a winter coat, and a lot of the time this limits us showing off our own personal style.  A scarf is an easy and fabulous way of adding a special touch to that winter coat of yours.  Plus it helps in keeping you warm!

I've put scarves into three categories for you.  I think breaking them down into categories is a helpful way to show you different types/styles and how you can wear them.  

Group #1

THE WARM COMFYS 

The Warm Comfys by DreamyGirl22 featuring a fringe shawl

Love Quotes Rayon/Poly Blend Wrap/Scarf with 4" Knotted Fringe - as..., $88
Rag & bone Pocketed chunky-knit scarf, $115
Scandinavian Pattern Knit Long Scarf, $98
Camel Knot Tassel Knit Scarf, $32
Iridescent knit scarf - Peacock blue stripes - Promod, 7 EUR
American Living Toboggan Cable Scarf, $22
Chunky cable scarf, 59 GBP
Space Dye Pom Pom Scarf, $36
Pink chunky cable scarf, 16 GBP
Oatmeal Cable Tassel Scarf, $32
Midnight Clear Acrylic Snowflake Ornament- Jaclyn Smith Today-Outdoor..., $2.24
ashley tisdale | Tumblr
Black Patent Mac Strip

Any of the scarves from this group would be a perfect choice for those of us who are having to endure this bitter winter!  Solid colors can be paired with almost any coat or sweater.  Fun printed ones are out there as well and can add that extra pop to any outfit.  Ashley Tisdale wears both the patterned and solid colored ones well, don't you think?  I'm loving the Scandinavain Pattern Knit Scarf, which is the gray one with the white  hearts.  So cute! And the Camel Knot Tassel Knit scarf from Topshop is a great shade! What's your favorite?

Group #2
THE WRAP AROUNDS

The Wrap Arounds by DreamyGirl22 featuring wraps scarves

Paula Bianco Wrap Scarf in many colors - as seen on Kim Kardashian, $83
Vkoo Cashmere Infinity Loop Scarf in Ivory Blush as seen on Lindsay..., $230
Snowflake Ski Snood, $32
Snood Scarf, 20 EUR
Lurex Threaded Fleck Slub Snood, $36
Ganni lovestruck scarf, 299 DKK
Chunky cable circle scarf, 25 GBP
Circle Scarf of Life in White, $40
Tolani > Tolani Infinity Leopard Scarf @ Singer22.com - Fashion Men's..., $86
Circle Yes or No Scarf in Blue, $20
Circle Yes or No Scarf in Green, $20
Pink crochet sparkle snood, 14 GBP
Midnight Clear Acrylic Snowflake Ornament- Jaclyn Smith Today-Outdoor..., $2.24
Black Patent Mac Strip

These types of scarves have really become properly in the past year or so.  I have a echo leopard print one, which I adore!  It looks pretty similar to the leopard print one featured in this set.  I love how you can wrap it around as little or as much as you like.  Leaving it longer or wrapping it around completely!  Mine definitely keeps my neck warm!  Although I'm not a big fan of Lindsay Lohan, I think both her and Kim Kardashian look great in their scarves!  My favorite from the bunch is probably the Snowflake Ski Snood, but I also like the Circle scarf of Life in White.  Which ones are you eyeing?

Group #3

THE LIGHTWEIGHTS

The Light Weights by DreamyGirl22 featuring skull scarves

H&M Shop Online
Marc Jacobs Magnolia-print cotton scarf, $250
Matthew Williamson Leopard-print wool-blend scarf, $495
Bottega Veneta Ombré cashmere and silk-blend scarf, $470
Missoni Crochet-knit zigzag scarf, $800
Yves Saint Laurent Leopard-print wool and cashmere-blend scarf, $995
H&M Shop Online
ZEBRA PRINT HANDKERCHIEF, $40
Navy Floral Scarf, $20
All by Alexander McQueen | NET-A-PORTER.COM, 353 GBP
Neutral leopard wool scarf, 20 GBP
Midnight Clear Acrylic Snowflake Ornament- Jaclyn Smith Today-Outdoor..., $2.24
Nicole Richie Style and Fashion - Alexander McQueen Skull Scarf on...
Black Patent Mac Strip

This group is better suited for those of you who live in a warmer area.   Although they look good on everybody, these are made of lighter material so they aren't going to help too much in keeping you warmer.  They will certainly keep you stylish though! For those of us who are experiencing a bad winter, you can still buy these, just maybe wait to wear them until spring.  

Nicole Richie is one of the best at sporting chic scarves.  She's got the look down!   I am drawn to the animal print ones and the Missoni Crochet Knit zigzag scarf is amazing as well! Could you imagine spending $800 on a scarf though??  I know I couldn't!! Which one would you buy, if price wasn't an issue?

Well, girls, I hope this scarf post was helpful and maybe you spotted one or two you have to go out and buy!  I'm still on that shopping ban, trying hard to make use of what I already own, and stop spending money on things I don't necessarily need, but mainly just really want!  It's tough!


Have a wonderful day!!

RESOLUTIONS AND MODELS!

 How's your Monday going girls??  Is it off to a slow start like mine??  Nobody likes Mondays all that much, do they??  I hope your weekend went well at least!  Mine was rather good.  So I've kind of mentioned my New Year's resolutions here and there throughout posts, but I'd thought I would put them all together:

photo credit

2011 New Year's Resolutions:

1. EAT HEALTHY : 

(something I always try to do, but it's still a continuous thing, it's hard to stay on track all the time)

2. LIVE SIMPLER:  

Less technology, technology is a good thing, don't get me wrong, but sometimes I wonder about how we get so caught up with technology, that we don't enjoy the world that's around us, and the beauty of simplistic things.  So goal: To live simpler, and enjoy more.

3. BE TRULY HAPPY WITH MY BODY

(learn to love the good and the bad both, tricky to do, huh?)

Have you girls started any New Year's resolutions?  If so, how are they going?  Sometimes it's easy to give up, but stay strong, you can really do it! :)

On another note, look how gorgeous these girls look even in snow flurries!!  Models, of course.....

I'm hooked on FashionGoneRogue!  Such an amazing and inspirational website!

Pictures from Chasing Wolves by Harper Smith for Factory Magazine.  For more from this photo shoot, click here.

Have a happy Monday!