Chocolate, Curves, & Cocktail Dresses

Times They Are A'changin'

2013-04-30T21:25:00.001-07:00

I've written this post a dozen times in my head... each time it was different.

Next month, marks one year since we moved back to California. It is such a cliche to say, "it's flown by," but it has. It's amazing how much can change in just one year. I've graduated law school, moved across the country, got my dream job, worked my butt off, and seriously changed my priorities.

How so?

I'm just days away from being an aunt and Godmother.

I've recently taken up gardening (random, I know).

And I find myself enthralled in a local mentoring program.

So, where does that leave this blog? Well, OOTDs are few and far between seeing as though I wear a suit to work everyday. I only manage to cook dinner once or twice a week because of my work schedule, so food posts would be rare. Most of my new clothes are work-related so I wouldn't have many exciting new pieces to share...

I guess the answer is: I don't know what the future of this blog is. I have no idea what God has in store for my family and I. Your guess is as good as mine. But, I do know this -- I'm open. I'm open to change, open to movement, open to variety. Open.

There it is. The future. Uncertain and open. A good combination.

I hope you stay tuned for whatever it is.

Love,

Shayne

[photo: view from my new house]

Things I Need For Spring ::: A Floral Dress

2013-03-09T20:42:00.001-08:00

1 :: 2 :: 3 :: 4 :: 5 :: 6 :: 7 :: 8

No, really. I need a floral dress. There is something simultaneously feminine, sexy, and spring-like about a floral dress. I like to dress them up with nude heels and neutral clutch.

What's your Spring must-have?

Product Review: Clarisonic Mia

2013-02-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that I'm kind of a cheapskate. I mean, I spend money. But, I always try to pay the least amount that I possibly can. If I don't feel like I got a good deal, then I'm not happy. So, you should be thoroughly impressed that I spent $119 on the Mia by Clarisonic. I've had it for about 6 months and I'm kind of in love.

Why? Some of my very favorite (and most trusted) bloggers recommended it. Women who wouldn't recommend their own products unless they tried and liked them. So, I took the dive.

What did I find? I liked (nay, loved) it the very first time I used it. My skin was silk afterward; glowy and smooth. My husband even tried it (but only once). Clarisonic recommends that you use it every day, morning and night. However, with my busy schedule, I knew it would be unlikely I could commit to this regimend. So, I committed to using it 4-5 times a week. Some times I manage to use it more.

The results? I have seen a noticeable difference in the feel and look of my skin. The more I use it, the better it gets. My moisturizer and liquid foundations last long and look better. It's difficult to explain how, but they just do. Plus, it's relaxing. It's like a mini facial at home.

Downside? I think (because I can't be sure) that it caused me to break out a few weeks after I started using it. Obviously, I have no scientific evidence to prove this but I know my skin and I know when I breakout. This breakout was unexpected. However, unexpected breakouts have not been a problem since.

Would I recommend it? Yes. I would. It is a big investment, but I think it's worth it. If not for the extra glow it gives you, then for the improvement in way your skin care products work. I know there are a lot of less expensive versions of The Mia, but I've never tried any of them. They might work just as well. If you find one, let me know. I'd love to hear about it!

Outfit Post: Spotted Tights

2013-02-23T15:29:00.001-08:00

I wear a suit to work everyday. This doesn't leave a lot of room for spotted tights. I got these tights a few months ago from Forever 21 and I have been waiting to wear them ever since.

[Outfit Details: sweater - Cynthia Rowley via TJ Maxx :: dress - Forever 21 :: tights - Forever 21

shoes - Guess via DSW :: clutch - Ann Taylor Loft :: watch - Coach :: flower - NY & Co.

earrings - Target]

Outfit Post: Striped Peplum (Night Time)

2013-01-28T19:24:00.001-08:00

My husband and I met in high school. We were eighth graders. He saw me and claimed that he would date me one day. The confidence it must have took to say that to his friends. Sure enough, six years later we were dating. This year we will celebrate our seventh year of marriage. It hasn't always been easy, but it's always felt right.

The other night we went to dinner to celebrate our time together as a couple.

[peplum - JCPenny :: faux leather skirt - JCPenny :: sweater - Cynthia Rowley from TJ Maxx ::

clutch - Marc Jacobs for Target :: necklace - NY & Co. :: watch - Coach]

Outfit Post: Striped Peplum (Day Time)

2013-01-27T14:52:00.001-08:00

The JCPenny women's plus-size section is seriously underrated. I've had major luck there lately. First, I got this lace jacket there just before Christmas. A few weeks later, I picked up this striped peplum top for less than $20. I've been living in a wool cardigan I picked up there as well. Check it out for yourselves, you're sure to find a bargain.

[Details: Sunglasses - Prada :: Jacket - JCPenny :: Peplum top - JCPenny :: Watch - Coach

Jeans - Torrid :: Flats - Via Spiga from Nordstrom :: Necklace - NY & Co.]

Outfit Post: Fur Coat

2013-01-13T19:55:00.001-08:00

Many of you have noticed that I haven't been posting with the same regularity I used to. Thank you for your kind messages making sure I'm doing okay. I am. I've just been busy with my new job and new life in California. My heart has been preoccupied with my work and I'm just not in the blogging mood.

My life is so exciting right now! I love my work. I mean really love it. Working 12-hour days is a joy. I know that it sounds crazy but it's true. When you love what you're doing, it doesn't feel like work at all. I hope all of you find work so rewarding.

[faux fur coat - Jones New York from TJ Maxx :: scarf - Target :: skirt - Eloquii :: tights - K-Mart

shoes - Guess from DSW :: purse - thrifted Kathy Ireland]

Gift Guide: Perfect Hostess Present

2012-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

It's officially December! Christmas is just twenty-five days away! My planner is quickly filling up with fun holiday parties and events. I'm a firm believer that a hostess gift is a must! But, finding the perfect gift can be difficult. You want the gift to be personal, but not too personal. You want it to be thoughtful, but not too expensive. Here are my gift picks that any hostess would be happy to receive.

[peanut dish :: chocolate :: cin cin coasters :: olive oil :: Baies candle :: mortar and pestle :: ice bucket :: bottle stopper :: tea ball :: dominos :: piggy salt and pepper shakers :: stemless wine glasses]

Happy Shopping!

Gift Guide: The Working Woman

2012-11-23T13:56:00.000-08:00

I'm not a hardcore Black Friday shopper. It's too stressful for me. All the people, the pushing, the lines. It's not worth the 15% discount. However, it has got me thinking about Christmas shopping. I love a good gift guide. Since I'm officially a working woman, it's only fitting at the first gift guide be for the working woman.

1 :: 2 :: 3 :: 4 :: 5 :: 6 :: 7 :: 8 :: 9 :: 10 :: 11 :: 12 :: 13 :: 14 :: 15 :: 16 :: 17 :: 18

Who is the most difficult person in your life to shop for? Leave a comment below. Maybe it will inspire me to do a gift guide for them.

Review: Lane Collection by Lane Bryant

2012-11-17T20:25:00.001-08:00

Earlier this month, Lane Bryant debuted the Lane Collection. The Lane Collection is promoted as a modern, yet timeless line with premium fabrics and high quality details. The price point (for the clothing) ranges from $98 to $378. The collection only debuted in 11 stores but is available in its entirety online.

In my (humble) opinion, the purpose of the collection is to provide plus size women with high quality pieces that every woman needs: i.e a good pair of jeans, a leather jacket, a crisp white button up shirt, a black blazer, and the list goes on. When I first viewed the collection online I was a little let down. The prints seemed a little mature (which isn't uncommon for Lane Bryant) and there was not a lot of color. But, when I saw the collection in person, I actually liked the pieces I saw. Below are a few of my favorites and not so favorites:

The Ponte Jacket $98

It's hard to tell from the photo but this jacket has the most exquisite leather trim detail. Appropriate for work or a night out. It is cut well for a woman with a big bust. It is also very flattering because it is nipped at the waist and flares out at the hips. Loved this one! Worth it!

Shirred Dress $98

LB used a quality spandex material and it paid off. The dress hit me in all the right places. It's the perfect little black dress. Worth it!

Tuxedo Skirt $68

This skirt has great trim detail but not a great fit. The skirt is too short to be appropriate for most work places. I'm on the tall side (5'9) so maybe it would fit a shorter woman better. However, the cut was not flattering on me so I'll have to pass it!

The Jewelry

I wasn't a fan of any of it. All of it was black and gold and all very large, which is typical for Lane Bryant. But, the jewelry was just too heavy for me. Pass it!

Leather Stripe Skirt $198.00

The leather on this skirt felt like butter. I couldn't stop touching it. (Tactile shopper here!) However, again, the skirt was too short on me. It seemed to be the same cut as the tuxedo skirt but something about the fabric of this skirt seemed to make it fit better. I wouldn't pay $200 for this skirt only because I would not get enough use out of it. The quality is worthy of a $200 price point though. Worth it (for you)!

Faux Camel Cape $189.00

No, really, it fit like a cape. Like the one Superman would wear. You can tell from the picture that there is just too much fabric. I tried on the smallest size and still felt like I was drowning... and I like capes! Pass it!

Genius Fit Skinny Jeans $88

Great cut. Flattering on the stomach. Probably Lane Bryant's best denim yet. I only wish it came in tall. Pass it (if you're tall like me) otherwise, worth it!

Cold Shoulder Blouse $78

Ok. I understand these tops hide a tummy, but they also leave you shapeless. She looks like a box in this picture. There are a few other tops in the collection with this cut, I didn't like any of them. Pass it!

Overall, I appreciate what Lane Bryant is doing here. Plus size women need high quality timeless pieces like the ones they've designed in this collection. If you're wondering what I got... I picked up the ponte jacket and the ponte jeggings (not shown). I love them both!

Did you see the Lane Collection? What did you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Designer Labels and Me

2012-09-03T09:48:00.001-07:00

Ever since I heard the words "urban shoe myth" come out of Carrie Bradshaw's Dior colored lips, I knew one day I would have them. Yes. I bought Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes. After all, I landed my dream job. A job that requires me to wear a suit every day and they are the perfect shoe to compliment my professional wardrobe. They were also my first real designer shoe purchase.

I held my breath as I opened the box. They were beautiful. Tortoise with a hint of gold. Perfection. I bought a size up because I knew they ran small. When I put them on they were still a little snug. So I wore them around the house to break them in.

It was then that I heard it. The most horrible sound in the world. I didn't even want to look down. I knew what I'd see and I just couldn't bear it. As I took off my shoe, I could feel it. When I looked down, I saw it. The heel on my brand new Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes broke. On the first day. After only being worn for two hours. What the... (you know how the rest of it goes).

I didn't know whether to scream or cry. How could this happen? These were designer shoes. Handmade in Italy. Aren't these suppose to be the greatest shoes on Earth? What happened? I know, I know. I can return them. But that's not the point. I made "an investment." A very expensive "investment" and now what did I have? Nothing. It still makes me sick to think about.

This isn't the first time something like this has happened. At nineteen, I bought my first Coach purse. I stained the leather during the first week. I once lost a Michael Kors watch at the airport. Two months ago, I snapped the arm on my favorite Versace sunglasses. This never happens with my non-labels. I've had the same pair of Target flats for four years. The same Old Navy trench for six.

I think it's a sign. Maybe I'm forcing it. Maybe expensive labels just aren't for me. Is that possible? After all, I've always felt more at home in a second hand store than a Saks. Am I the only one? Am I destined to spend the rest of my life in thrift store threads? What do you think?

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Enjoying The Moment

2012-09-01T09:20:00.001-07:00

I'm in one of those rare periods in life where everything seems to be going right. But, I can feel something on the horizon. Do you know what I mean? I can sense something new and exciting is about to happen. I just don't know what it is. The feeling is hard to explain. I probably sound like a kook. But, I just know. When I figure out what this feeling is, I will let you know. Until then... I'll just enjoy the moment.

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Fall Boots I Can't Wait To Wear

2012-08-12T20:49:00.000-07:00

[Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Black Knee Highs, Brown Flats, Combat Boots, Leopard Ankle, Cognac Knee High, Tan w/ Glitter Detail, Blue Velvet, Cream Suede, Metallic Wedges, Black w/ Zipper Detail, Orange Flats, Black w/ Leather Straps, Cream Knee Highs]

These last few days of more than 100 degree heat has really made me long for fall. Fall is my favorite season. I just cannot wait to wear boots! What is it about fall that you love the most?

Outfit Post: Cheetah Print Top

2012-08-10T13:08:00.001-07:00

[Bag - Forever 21 :: Top - Ross :: Pants - Forever 21 :: Shoes - Target :: Sunglasses - Prada :: Bracelets - NY & Co., Thrifted, David Yurman]

It feels so good to be back home in California. I'm starting to feel like myself again... just in time to start my new job on Monday. I'm spending my last few days off with my husband and family. I've also been shopping. A lot. I didn't shop for almost three months while studying for the bar exam so I have to make up for lost time. I picked up this cheetah print top from Ross for just a couple of dollars. I'm a sucker for a peter pan collar.

What great deals have you found lately?

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Product Review: Fresh Skin Care

2012-08-09T12:41:00.001-07:00

This summer I took a big risk. Huge. I changed my skin care routine. Why the drama? Because I have very sensitive skin and major changes usually result in a major breakout. But, because I was held up in my home all summer studying for the bar exam, I figured this was my best chance.

I have dry skin. Very dry. I'm guessing it's partially because I don't drink enough water. (I'm working on it.) I usually use Clinique but I've never really been happy with the results. I used the moisturizer for dry to very dry skin but my skin was still dry. So, my goal this time was to find a lightweight moisturizer that heavily moisturized.

This is exactly was I told my friend at Sephora. She recommended Fresh. Sephora carries both the Cleanser and Moisturizer. So, I purchased both. I find that skin care products tend to compliment each other when used together according to their instructions.

My Review

Cleanser

Pros: The cleanser is lightweight. Gentle. My face felt so fresh (imagine that). I've never used a cleanser that was this refreshing.

Cons: It does nothing in the way of exfoliating.

Cream

Pros: It is lightweight. It moisturizes well and it lasts throughout the whole day.

Cons: The smell. It smells like a wet towel. It fades after a while but it isn't pleasant while it lasts.

Overall, I really enjoyed both products. I wish they came in larger bottles though. I've only been using it for three months and I'm at the end of my second bottles. Yikes!

Have you tried any of the Fresh products? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

[Photo]

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Pro-fashion-al

2012-08-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

I start my new job in a week and I am nervously excited. It truly is my dream job. There is only one downside. The dress code. I'll have to wear a suit every day. Not the suits you see characters wearing on TV...

[Political Animals]

... but an professional suit like one of these:

[Black suit, Gray suit, Plaid suit]

It leaves something to be desired. Finding stylish, professional attire is difficult. I don't want to sacrifice my professional reputation for fashion. But, my personal style is such an important part of my life. It will definitely take some practice. I look forward to learning though. I'll be sure to share my successes and failures with you.

Find me on:

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In the home stretch

2012-07-11T17:38:00.001-07:00

I'm about 2 weeks shy of taking my big test. I can't wait to be done! Here's just a few pictures of what life has looked like for the last few weeks.

[L to R :: nail art :: regular morning breakfast :: broken Versace (tear) :: my summer go-to hairdo]

[ L to R :: top knot :: post-bar exam summer reading :: fruit for desert :: my secret study spot]

[L to R :: my disaster of a closet :: fresh picked summer veggies :: baked squash :: Sunday brunch with hubby]

[ L to R :: birthday dinner with hubby :: Sunday morning :: birthday outfit :: birthday breakfast with my sisters]

[L to R :: new shoes from Target :: Avocado and arugula sandwich :: my straight hair :: up-do]

[L to R :: birthday shoes from Guess :: me and my sister Mckenzie at my birthday breakfast :: birthday gift from the hubby]

Adventures In Nail Polish

2012-06-27T21:41:00.001-07:00

This neon yellow color is my absolute favorite nail polish at the moment. It's called Rare by Illamasque.

Hiatus

2012-06-20T20:33:00.001-07:00

I wanted to update you on my summer this far... or lack there of. I'm still studying for the bar exam so my free time is limited. This also means that I've taken up extreme online shopping. The only problem is that I have a bunch of cute new shoes and no time to wear them. I may or may not have worn a new pair of shoes to do laundry... don't judge me

[L to R :: Outside braid :: Shoemint arrival! :: The Carol by Shoemint :: My sister Taylor and I]

[ L to R :: Secret garden :: Outfit from date night :: Everyday I'm Snuffulin' shirt from Target :: My pup Harley]

[L to R :: My favorite Prada sunnies :: My new overcome apparel shirt from my cousin's new clothing line :: My second cousins with Harley :: Outfit for church - Target bag and top, Lane Bryant capris]

[L to R :: Pretty flowers :: Lunch salad :: Starbucks trip with my baby sister :: Everyday hair]

Thank you for all your kind words and encouragement. Your endless support has meant so much to me over these stressful few weeks.

Busy Bee

2012-05-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Life has been pretty hectic the last couple of weeks. We recently moved from New York to California, I graduated law school, and I just started studying for the bar exam. Yikes!

I'll be MIA for awhile because I plan on crushing the bar exam. Wish me luck!

[L to R :: My mom and I :: My dad, mom, and I :: My hubby and I :: My mom and I]

[L to R :: necklace from Target :: bracelets David Yurman, thrifted :: pastel nails :: law school graduation robe]

[ L to R :: Law school graduation hat :: my girl Jackie and I celebrating after classes ended :: going out outfit choice :: my pup Harley]

[ L to R :: my co-pilot Buddy on the way to CA :: Lake Tahoe :: The view from my new home :: In and Out lunch (heaven sent)]

Plus Size Shorts

2012-05-16T05:00:00.001-07:00

The other day I was looking for plus size shorts. I knew it would be hard to find a cute pair but I had no idea it would be this hard. Sure I found basic jean shorts but I struggled find cute, girly shorts. I picked these up in mint green (they run a little small, I bought a size up). But, I wanted another pair so I spent almost two hours online! Below are the fruits of my labor.

[L to R :: Target :: Target :: New Look :: ASOS :: Torrid :: ASOS]

Which ones should I get? Have you seen any cute plus size shorts lately?

xoxo

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DIY Post: My Tiffany Blue Clock

2012-05-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

A while ago, Shayne and I went to Salvation Army (shocking, I know) and I found this little clock. It was something about the feminine design that I was really drawn to. It's hard to imagine what I found feminine since it was covered in dust and cobwebs. But, I figured it was worth the risk. It was only $2.98 after all. What did I have to lose?

I decided to spray paint it. I feel like the blue adds a modern touch. Here's what I did.

First, I cleaned the clock.

Actually, that's a lie, first I ripped off the red minute hand because it was plastic and ugly. Then I cleaned it.

As you can see from my amazing set-up, I taped a garbage bag to the floor of my porch so that I didn't get spray paint all over. Then, I placed tape over the black hands of the clock to make sure I didn't turn them blue:

Finally, I painted (the fun part).

Once it dried I just ripped the tape off of the hands and voila! I just love the shape! More importantly, do you think I should draw the numbers back on, or leave it to the imagination?

What do you think?

xoxo

Erin

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All That Glitters Is Not Gold (or Yellow)

2012-05-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Many of you have noticed an influx in my gold and yellow purchases. I'm not sure what it is about spring but it always makes me want to wear these colors. This year my yellow addiction is pretty bad (see here, here, and here)

Oh, and here is some more :

[L to R :: cross body bag - Target :: neon yellow tank - Old Navy :: bronzer - Sonia Kashuk :: bronze eye liner - Sephora :: gold chain bracelet - thrifted :: long gold necklace - thrifted :: gold pendant necklace - thrfited (last seen here) :: credit card holder - Michael Kors :: watch - Coach (last seen here) :: nail polish - Illamasqua (Sephora) :: wallet - Michael Kors :: gold cross body bag - thrfited]

What color are you obsessed with this season?

xoxo

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Floral Denim

2012-05-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

[L to R :: Madwell :: Current/Elliot :: J-Brand :: Elisa :: Debenhams]

Everyone from Olivia Palermo to Katie Holmes has been seen wearing floral denim. I really didn't get the floral denim itch until I saw these (here and here) from Torrid.

Will you wear floral denim this spring/summer?

xoxo

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My Week In Review

2012-05-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been a little crazy. I've been prepping for final exams, law school graduation, moving to California, and spending time with all my New York friends. It's bittersweet. I'm so excited to move home to California but I'm going to miss my New York friends like crazy.

But, even with the bar exam looming I'm still able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm so excited for what the future has for me. Moving into our house, starting my new job, and passing the bar exam (fingers crossed!!).

Here's a glimpse of what these last few weeks have looked like.

[L to R :: Forever 21 necklaces :: DIY nail stickers :: Elle :: Target wallets]

[ L to R :: Forever 21 dress :: Buddy cuddling :: Starbucks study break :: DIY manicure]

[L to R :: Harley camera ready :: my boss bun :: Forever 21 dress :: last day of classes outfit]

[L to R :: Forever 21 dress :: navy blue french mani :: Illamaqua "Rare" polish :: law school award]

xoxo

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