FASHION

Salsa Nights:

I actually created a Polyvore style after one of my own outfits.  I'm calling it Salsa Nights because I wore this look to a fabulous Salsa band charity event.  It was such a fun night.  Literally, we danced the night away.  I'll post my Polyvore look, then a photo of me in my outfit and where you can purchase the separates (for much less than the high-end Polyvore stuff). 

My Top:  Candies from Kohl's $26.99

My Shorts: Old Navy, on sale now for ONLY $14.00

Earrings:  Icing $10.50

Shoes: Forever21 $29.80 (I will take a pic. and add it, I didn't realize I had my shoes off!)

Bag: Okay, so nothing comes close in comparison with the classic Chanel bag.  I bought a coral colored clutch from Kohl's.  I found it on clearance for $9.99!  I love it, but I will one day own that Chanel.





Creating the "LOOK" for Less:

I recently discovered Polyvore.  Wish I hadn't.  I have found some of the most amazing pieces of clothing and accessories...but they are just a tad bit out of my price range.  I feel like a posh celebrity stylist when I'm creating looks on their site.  It's pretty fun, and I have been inspired to try new styles with the ease of putting outfits together.  One of my creations is absolutely necessary for me to recreate, only with a little less of a price tag.  I have a spring/summers worth of baby and bridal showers to attend, and need a cute outfit to sport.  The great part is, all of the pieces can be worn separately with basic items every girl owns! 

So here is my Polyvore creation:

Chanel CC gold stud earrings: $350
Ponte Boyfriend Blazer: $70
Witchery Racer Back Aline Dress: $80
BeeBee Cutwork Clutch: $210
Gianmarco Lorenzi wedge: $729


Here is my frugle version of this look:

LC Lauren Conrad Open-Front Blazer: $49
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/crosssells/womens/juniorsapparel/jacketsblazers/PRD~1013918/LC+Lauren+Conrad+OpenFront+Blazer.jsp#

As U Wish Lace Hi-Low Dress in blush: $48
http://www.herbergers.com/shop/juniors/dresses/casual/as-u-wish-juniors-blush-lace-high-low-belted-dress_477352.html

Candies Platform Wedge Sandal: $32.99 (my sis owns these, they are SO cute)
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/womens_shoes/shoes/wedges/PRD~902917/Candies+Platform+Wedge+Sandals.jsp

Betsy Johnson Iconic Crystal Bow Earrings: $25
http://www.dillards.com/product/Betsey-Johnson-Iconic-Crystal-Bow-Stud-Earrings_301_-1_301_502911017

 

Wet Seal Crochet Lace Clasp Wallet: $8.50
http://www.wetseal.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=54455

With some smart shopping you can get an equally as chic look with out totally breaking the bank. 

Beyond this outfit, the blazer can make any outfit polished; it can be worn with jeans or even shorts.  The dress can be worn more casually with a pair of cowboy or riding-style boots, and some chunky jewelry.  The wedges will look cute with anything...jeans, capris, shorts.  The earrings are a simple and classic piece that can be worn daily if you desire. 

Now get out and start shopping! 

Basic Must Haves:

  I have been on a mission to feel good about my appearance.  I was recently lost in the "I have a newborn" look.  Forgoing any tanning for the last year, skipping root touch-ups, and let's be honest, my beauty products had been hiding in the backs of the drawers just waiting for me to start using them again.  I was just getting by.  Now who doesn't want to be a sultry, sun-kissed mama, with luscious locks and flawless finishes? Well I certainly do, so after getting out of the shower one day, I looked at my vampiress skin in the mirror and said, "let's do something about this!"
 
  Fortunately, I have fabulous friends.  I was introduced to a product called Fake Bake.  It is truly amazing.  It's easy and the results are top notch.  Just apply after showering (best if you use before bed), and wake up to a bronzed bod even J-Lo would be jealous of!  Tan? Check.


  Another great product I use is Bare Minerals Skin Rev-er Upper. It's a face serum that fills in fine lines, pores, and wrinkles.  It creates a matte base to even the skin-tone, and provide perfect make-up application.  Love this stuff.  It makes my skin look and feel dewy. 


  For a flawless finish to any face, Youngblood HD Mineral Powder is a must.  I use it after applying my concealer and foundation (mineral or liquid).  It sets your base and gives you a silken glow.  Love.


  One product I have used forever and have yet to find anything better, is Lancome Definicils mascara.  It has the best brush to get every lash and create extension.  I will say I have tried SEVERAL mascaras, and nothing has won my heart like this little black beauty.


  Hair care is suuuuper important.  I highly recommend Pureology.  I use their shampoo/conditioner, heat protectant, root lifter and shine serum.  All amazing.  I love the fact that their products are vegan and they don't have any sulfates or harsh chemicals that destroy the hair.  It's a little pricey, but I sincerely believe in quality products.  I splurge on good products, but they last and the quality makes it absolutely worth it!


  When trying to look and feel great about one's appearance, dingy teeth don't quite make the cut.  I decided to try an at-home whitening system...and found it to be pretty impressive.  I used Crest 3-D White Strips Professional Effects.  I will say I had some sensitivity, but after I stopped using them, it went away.  They definitely brightened my smile, and for $40, it didn't break the bank.
(Side note: my mom has just started back up with DiVinci professional teeth whitening. Using a peroxide solution and a professional light, she brings you to your whitest smile in minutes. It's pretty reasonably priced, and just as effective as going to the dentist for whitening.  She's my go to gal from now on, if you're interested in hooking up with her when in the Junction area, let me know!)


A trip to the nail salon is just what a tired mama needs after washing dishes, bottles, cleaning toilets and floors, and trying to tackle the never ending laundry loads.  Unfortunately for me, I rarely get the chance to enjoy such luxury.  Yes, getting a mani-pedi combo is a luxury when you're up to your elbows in boys!  So I have found the next best thing...Impress Press-On Manicure!  They have a wide variety of colors and designs, and they stay on for a week!  At $5-$7 a box, you can't beat it.  The even better part is, people seriously think you just had your nails done.  I get tons of compliments with these little gems; it's fun to feel fab. 


These are just my essentials to freshen up a dull, tired look.  I could go on and on about the products I use, but I think this is a good start.