Day to Day of a Dazzling Diva

DD's Style File - Color Wonderful

2016-04-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

It's April! And I'm hopeful for a surge of wonderful spring like weather, however the forecast actually has me feeling like an April Fool with the mention of snow dotted over the next seven days...

Despite all of April's (snow) showers, I'm definitely in the mood to start infusing my wardrobe selections with some brighter colors. I've been rocking a lot of black and white lately, and I'm feeling ready to amp it up just a bit!

Although I didn't get to wear what I had originally intended for Easter, this dress arrived the day before I was spot on for the spring holiday (even though I totally prefer an April Easter versus a March one).

I opted to not downplay the color by pairing it with black or nude and instead dove all in. I wanted the colors to play well together though, so I used the confetti splashes on this adorable cork clutch as a guide and paired it with coral pumps and a neon yellow necklace. Even though my bag was sprinkled with color, the cork provided just the right amount of neutral as to balance out the rest of the brights I was wearing.

Dress: The Limited
Shoes: INC
Clutch: JustFab - old (similar here and here)
Bracelets: Express

This piece will totally be a great work staple and can be intermixed with base colors like white, nude and black for a more conservative feel. The sleeves can help ward off the year round office chill and the dress can even be topped with a blazer or cardigan to change up the look.

I find that I gravitate more to solids than to prints, but I find the tulip cut of this skirt provides a nice alternative to the standard shift dress.

Do you all feel it's too early in the season yet (in the Northern states, at least) to start incorporating more punches of color to your work wardrobe?

DD's Style File - Faux Long Fur Vest

2016-03-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hey, World!!

I seriously can't believe that it's March 1st! 2016 is really moving! And I can't skirt around the fact that this is actually my first post of 2016... *hides faces* But it's life! On top of being back in school this semester and working on a really big project at the office, I've also been trying to take the time to be a healthier me. No new year's resolution type stuff, but I know I want to live a healthy life as long as I can, so I need to be more mindful of how I take care of myself. We'll dive deeper into that on another day.

The weather (and daylight) here in the North isn't always cooperative on the days when I have more time to take photos, but I finally lucked up and got a good day to get out and let the strangers stare at me and wonder what the heck I'm doing.

Vest: Forever 21 - limited availability in alternate color offerings here and here
similar style here
Turtleneck: JCP
Pants: The Limited - similar style. similar, similar
Shoes: old - similar, similar
Bag: Michael Kors - old - similar style, less expensive option

So this season I'm still on my faux fur kick, you can see my posts on some other pieces here and here. This vest is definitely what I'd consider a statement piece. I think this silvery gray would look great tossed on over a head to toe monochromatic look, like all white! I've actually had it in my closet for a couple months, but hadn't had a chance to wear it. I'll be truthful - sleeveless winterwear typically isn't "my thing." At least not historically. Mostly because I never knew what to do with it, weather wise.

Not so long ago, I finally figured out puffer vests, and that opened my mind to some other options as well. I know that all sounds pitiful, but I'm just being honest with you!

But luckily, I think we are headed towards more days where sleeveless outerwear can be used more often (even though with light layers underneath, you could definitely leave this on). And that means more sunlight and warmer temps for picture taking - yaaayyy!

I do hope that all of you are having a great year thus far and that you're still progressing on those new year's resolutions!

DD's Style File - Minty Fresh

2015-12-29T02:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and are gearing up for a wonderful New Year!

Outfits around holiday time tend to be of bolder, richer hues, but wearing pastels in winter months can be fabulous! Fall has moved your wardrobe into deeper hues, but pastel shades are cool tones that work just as well when there's snow on the ground (though thankfully, we haven't had much thus far).

In keeping with the spirit of the holidays I added a bit of metallic sheen and sparkle to my leather. Though, I will be the first to admit that I find sparkly flats to be a wardrobe staple that I reach for throughout the year. There is no shame in my personal fashion mantra that "more is more."

Blouse: ASOS - old (very similar)
Sweater: Charming Charlie
Skirt: The Limited
Flats: Zara - old (similar, similar, similar)
Clutch: The Limited - old (similar, super cute option)

Since there was so much shine going on with this outfit, I went super minimal with the jewelry, opting only for studs. I think bringing materials into your pieces that reflect light are great ways to switch things up a bit from your standard wardrobe choices.

I was super excited when I found this sweater in store, after I'd been fawning over this one from J. Crew from a couple seasons ago. And now I kinda want the black one too!

Consider bringing glitter or metallic pieces into your casual NYE outfit, it's a great way to keep with a festive feel while also adding some glam to a sweater and jeans.

After all of the Christmas flurry I hope you all are having a peaceful and relatively relaxing week whether you're back at work or in the house with the kids or visiting guests!

DD's Style File - Outfit Inspiration from Kylie Jenner

2015-12-22T01:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not the least bit ashamed to admit that sometimes, on an occasion or two, I've been inspired by one of the Kardashian klan (like this here shirt). I even may or may not have been an avid Keeping up with the Kardashian's viewer at some point or another.

So, yeah, they can be influencers. And to my own surprise...this time it was Kylie that got me.

Kylie's coat: Guess

When I saw Kylie all bedecked in fur and leather it was a total "hello" moment, there's something I could appreciate about such a bold outfit choice. Now, let me preface this by saying, I didn't actually jump up and go buy a coat similar to Kylie's. I just so happened to already have it. I'd picked it up a while ago and hadn't worn it yet.

I'm not exactly sure how Kylie managed to pull it off in seemingly sunny, warm weather, but mine definitely fit the bill for one of our first day's of snowfall. I think she may have gone with a tank top underneath, where I needed full-on turtleneck coverage.

Coat: Forever 21 (another option)
Leather leggings: Express
Booties: Amazon
Turtleneck: Merona
Clutch: Payless

And since I'm not all rich and serious, I grabbed a fun clutch to wear with my furry statement coat. But this is certainly a simple way to sexify your holiday!

As I type this post, I'm thinking of all the presents that still need wrapped. Which is basically all of them. Ugh...my lovely Christmas tree looks so lonely without presents.... I hope all of you are feeling stress free and ready for the holidays...because I'm not!

DD's Style File - Falling for Faux

2015-12-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Last week I posted a gift guide that was all about fun, affordable fur a.k.a faux fur. And I have to say I'm alllll about the faux furs. They work in fall and into winter, and make your look feel a bit more luxe!

I wanted to do something a little different with color, so I went for deeper, richer tones in wine, mustard (one of my favorite shades) and forest green. Then I added a dash of fur, a touch of leopard and a splash of gold.

I picked up this scarf and another one last winter, but find myself reaching for this one all the time. Then I got all inspired after seeing some belted furs on Pinterest, so I decided to give it a try myself!

Leather skirt: The Limited - sold out (similar, similar, similar, similar)
Top: Charming Charlie - sold out (similar, similar, similar)
Fur scarf: The Limited - old (similar, similar, similar)
Tights: Forever 21 (similar)
Booties: Amazon
Clutch: Clare Vivier

I have to say I'm suuuuuuper thrilled about this weather we're having in the northeast, and it can stay right on through to April! I'm not the least bit disappointed if there's no snowy white Christmas (don't hate me).

Can you believe Christmas is little more than a week away?? If you haven't yet entered my Holidays on Chic Giveaway for your chance to win a glittery pair of Kate Spade earrings and some beauty goods, click HERE! Today is your last chance to enter! Good luck!!

Faux Fur-Real $10 Stocking Stuffers!!

2015-12-11T01:00:00.000-05:00

Faux fabrics are seeing a resurgence and faux fur is definitely one that is experiencing its season right now! Anything done poorly can be terrible, but times have changed since the days of my mother's faux fabrics and they can feel practically as supple and soft as the real thing!

From winter whites to rich wines - today I've rounded up a few fun fur options that would make great stocking stuffers or last minute gifts and all around price points of $10!!

Take a look!

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7. / 8.

And for the chance to grab a few gifts for yourself, you've still got time to enter my Holidays on Chic Giveaway for the chance to win a fab pair of Kate Spade earrings and beauty goods! I mean, you've been good this year too, right?!

DD's Style File - A Little Unusual

2015-12-09T01:30:00.000-05:00

First things first...I hope you all are having a fabulous week and if you haven't yet entered the Holidays on Chic Holiday Giveaway, click HERE for your chance to win a pair of Kate Spade earrings and other gifts!

Now, on to fashiony things...

I don't consider my style picks to be "stuck in a rut," I just know what tends to work for my body and I gravitate toward those shapes. Often. I do, however, tend to feel like I go through "seasons" with retailers. I shop any and everywhere, but whoever is my retailer of choice becomes my go to place to shop, so I usually head there first and often. Eventually, I either find that their offerings become stale or something about their quality changes - like sizing or fabrication.

I recently started trying some things from Loft. Unfortunately, we don't have one locally, so I did an online shopping adventure (which is what I call running the risk of paying for shipping and returns).

One thing that I find myself not finding enough variation in, are prints. I adore leopard print (obviously), love polka dots, and have a thing for stripes, but I needed something else.

I've only made a couple purchases so far, but I picked up a couple of dresses, including this one, which I'd consider very different from my standard choices. The large striking print on the loose, breezy fit of this dress was a tad unusual. But I really, really liked that it's different and that it's a dress with sleeves! Because of the softer weight fabric it can also be worn through the seasons.

Dress: Loft - sold out (similar styles in different prints here, here, here, and here and this is super cute too)
Bag: H&M - sold out (almost exact match here and similar, similar options)
Booties: Amazon

The last three months I've worn A LOT of black. Probably more than I ever have. Ever. Which was because I was wearing the same pair of black leopard print New Balances every day. And I just didn't feel quite right covering myself in softer colors until your eyes reached my ankles.

Now that the doctor has given me the go ahead to slowly transition into regular shoes (flats, of course), I am uber excited about shopping my closet and wearing some things that I haven't in a while.

GIVEAWAY!! Holidays on Chic featuring Kate Spade!!

2015-12-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

Ho, Ho, Heyyyy!!!

I am grateful for the year I've had, even with all of its not so great parts (such is life, right?!). I had some amazing experiences, like getting to appear on the Today Show, and I want to put some positive energy back into the universe. Since it IS the season of giving, I'm hosting a holiday giveaway!

There will be one winner randomly drawn on December 17th, who will win the following goodies:

A pair of Kate Spade Multi Glitter Stud Earrings
An original piece of artwork (8x10) from Melsys Illustrations featuring four glittery dresses inspired by the Sex In the City characters
Victoria's Secret candle in the fragrance "Bombshell"
(2) Victoria's Secret body lotions in the fragrances "Mango Temptation" and "Pear Glace"
A colorful Victoria's Secret PINK chug mug
An Izak makeup train case
Deluxe sized samples of:
Nude ProGenius Facial Oil
Orly nail polish in Fabulous Flamingo
Buxom lipgloss in Dolly

PLEASE NOTE that this is not a sponsored post and everything in the giveaway was paid for by me. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.

Thank you all for visiting and good luck!!!

Giftsgiving! - 25 Gifts Under $25

2015-11-27T01:00:00.000-05:00

'Tis the official kickoff for holiday shopping season! Smart shopping can allow for great gift picking and sticking to your budget. To help get you started, here's my list of wallet friendly gifts for the loved ones on your list, that they will be sure to appreciate (and use)!

1. / 2. / 3. / 4. / 5. / 6. / 7. / 8. / 9. / 10. / 11. / 12.

Here's a chance to do away with the impersonal feel that can come with gift cards, and what's better, is there's no sizing required! Giving a thoughtful gift and all that's needed is having a tiny bit of insight into her regular activities or things that she's into!

13. / 14. / 15. / 16. / 17. / 18. / 19. / 20. / 21. / 22. / 23. / 24. / 25.

And you can always pair two gifts together and still be under budget - like a multi pack of fashion earrings with the jewelry box, the tea bag caddy (or tea bag variety pack) with the tea kettle, or a couple hand towels with the foaming hand soap.

It really takes less effort than you think! Happy Black Friday shopping to all of you!

Getting it Together - Glove Storage & Organization DIY

2015-11-12T04:00:00.000-05:00

Tis' the season, people, tis' the season!

Cold weather is moving in quickly and it won't be long before we'll be adding more layers to ward off the chill. One of my fav chilly weather accessories are gloves! I love them for adding something to my wintertime personal style, I have various types from fingerless to half cuts to elbow length. Only problem was the storage situation...

I kept them tucked into a multi pocket organizer, which limited visibility. And this contraption was upstairs in my closet, while my coats were downstairs in my coat closet. Needless to say, that didn't help with getting out of the door on time in the mornings.

Here's my easy DIY hack that I pulled together to resolve all of that:

Clockwise from top left: Blush and Gray Elbow Length Gloves: The Limited - sold out (similar)
Black Half Gloves: eBay (exact match)
Cream Pearl Fingerless Gloves: received as gift (no match available but these are super cute)
Black Quilted Fingerless Gloves: Forever 21 (similar)

First, I added a Command Hook to the inside door of the cabinet closet in my laundry room. If I have never sang my love and adoration for Command Hooks, insert it [here] because I seriously loooooooove them! They are seriously like the best thing evuh!!

For supplies, I found this belt ring at Ross Dress for Less for a $1.99 (you can find relatively similar belt rings at Dollar General for a few dollars).

And I ordered some Ikea curtain clips from Amazon for less than $10, since we unfortunately don't have a store locally.

I just slid the foam piece off of the belt ring, leaving me with a single chrome loop.

I line each pair of the gloves up where the tags are on the inside and put the clips there to prevent and/or hide any possible indentations that may get left behind. and then just slide the clip rings on to the hook.

This way things are orderly and I can easily see what I have, plus my coats are right there for easy decision making.

For storing unused clips, I use this little capped jar that I found at H&M a while back and it takes up negligible space on the shelf, but keeps them right within reach.

I'd love to hear how you store your winter essentials!

DD's Style File - The Moto Vest

2015-11-10T04:00:00.000-05:00

I certainly pride myself on being budget savvy, but sometimes you have to give in to those investment pieces, so you splurge and spend a little more than normal. In my opinion, the key to these types of purchases is first all about quality and longevity. I consider this faux leather moto vest to be a perfect example of one such purchase.

I've had this piece for a couple years now, but I consider it a staple piece. So this is one of those times that I detour from the CPW (cost per wear) formula, because I often don't wear statement pieces as often, however I tend to keep them for a much longer period because they transcend the ever-changing trend scene.

Vest: The Limited - old (similar, similar, similar, similar, different alternative)
Dress: NY & Co - sold out (similar, similar, similar)
Handbag: H&M - sold out (similar, similar, similar)
Boots: vintage (similar, similar, similar)
Half gloves: eBay (exact match)

This piece also has greater versatility which offsets the investment. It can work at the office, church or date night. And can be worn with a variety of color palettes and add a punch of attitude to dresses, slacks or jeans.

In this case, taking a black dress (that I was going to get rid of) and adding the vest, some gloves and a fringe bag, easily added edge to a very simplistic base.

Just keep in mind that when it comes to purchase investment pieces, think long term about it will work with your wardrobe. You're not seeking to justify the price, I am just suggesting that your listing of reasons has more pros than cons.

On another note, I've finally transitioned out of "the boot" and I'm now wearing a these New Balances...every day. Ugh...so yeah, I'm not really a sneaker girl, but I have to give myself time to heal.

But I've never been so excited to finally get into a pair of flats! This broken foot has totally made getting dressed in the mornings more challenging that usual!

I hope your week is off to a great start! Be sure to check back often in the upcoming weeks, I'm working on a pretty sweet holiday giveaway for my readers and I wouldn't want you to miss out!

Getting it Together - Home Organization Day 2

2015-11-06T04:00:00.000-05:00

My closet is one of those places that stays relatively tidy. Relatively being the operative word, but I do generally try to maintain some consistent order in there. However, THIS was driving me bonkers...

I have fewer pants than anything else (more on that later) and I generally dislike plastic hangers, I use them occasionally, but have an affection for the thin velvet hangers. This little area designated for my pants just wasn't working, it felt cumbersome to get them in and out without bumping into my bracelets. I didn't want to move them because I don't seem to wear pants as often as skirts and dresses.

And these saggy, tangley plastic hangers just caused the pants to slide around and not lie flush against each other. Now, despite my love for velvet hangers, I hate the way my pants clutched the fabric when trying to remove them and that corner area just didn't seem provide ample room for the full size hanger.

Left: Unsorted Right: Sorted by Color

I finally got the idea to use kid size velvet hangers, so I purchased a set of 24 from Target for about $20 (I had a $10 gift card). Their more petite size allowed for better maneuverability in the smaller wall space and eliminated tangle and sliding issues. Sorting by color doesn't appear to make a lot of difference with this section, but I just personally prefer it because it makes getting dressed easier for me.

With this little experiment I also discovered two things:

1. I used up every hanger in the pack, so I had more pants than I realized. (I even had to purge a few pairs)
2. I loved the clean, unified look of all of the hangers being the same color and now I want to make sure all my hangers look like that!

I'm still on a organizing kick (when time permits) so I'd love to hear any tips and tricks you might have!

Getting it Together - Home Organization Day 1

2015-11-05T04:00:00.000-05:00

So, what have I NOT have time to do as of late?

1. Take blog photos

2. Edit already taken blog photos (reason #2 why this is not a style post)

3. Write blog posts

4. Manicure my nails

5. Give myself a decent facial

6. Brush my dog (and when I finally do, it's not pleasurable for either of us)

7. Anything fun

Those things, for the most part, are definitely all about me; but that's because work, school and family get the overwhelming majority of my time. Then comes sleep. Precious, dreamless sleep.

So, I won't lie and say that I have felt any less than frazzled some days, but I'm trying to manage.... What I have found though, is that when my brain feels over crowded with schedules, lists and deadlines, I begin to feel a serious urge to bring some order to things.

And my laundry room was not helping with my mental chaos... Every time I walked in there, my brain went on the fritz.

So, with less than a $20 dollar investment, I literally brought myself some peace of mind...

I already had the large chalkboard labels, I purchased the hang tags and oversized clothes pins from the Target Dollar Spot, and at Dollar Tree I picked up several baskets and a chalkboard marker. And now, I feel a little piece of happy every time I walk in. *contented sigh*

And I immediately felt like I wanted to put my entire life into little blue bins. Since I could not, I moved on to the kitchen and organized the top of the refrigerator and my freestanding cabinet. Getting rid of the clutter became almost therapeutic.

Are any of you guys organization junkies?? Because I seriously think that I could become one!

DD's Style File - Fall Brights

2015-10-06T04:00:00.000-04:00

As much as it's a sign of things to come - i.e., bone chilling winter, I do have a fondness for fall. I enjoy being able to see the leaves on the trees change hues and they way it lights up the skyline. It's just that all the trouble starts once they begin to lose their foliage.

Fall is definitely synonymous with deeper richer hues, like currants, hunter greens, chocolates and golds. What it certainly doesn't mean in that you have to trade in your brights just because the temperatures cool down.

If you've come to know me at all, you know I love me some bright colors. So instead of trading in my summerish colors, I just go for richer jewel tones. Case in point, this saturated raspberry blazer paired against a deep teal dress made for a perfect seasonal appropriate pairing.

Dress: old (similar, similar, similar, similar)
Blazer: The Limited - sold out (similar)
Necklace: gift from my mom (similar, similar, similar)
Earrings: Kate Spade

I kept my base shade all within the similar family, my dress, earrings and necklace were all varying shades of turquoise/teal, but I aimed to have the darkest shade of that family take up the greatest amount of space.

Incidentally, I wore one of my fav lipsticks, Wet n' Wild Sugar Plum Fair, which was also happened to be complimentary to my color palette.

As we delve into the chillier whether, I plan to try some color pairings that are new to me, in order to fresh things up a bit. Like trying more jewel pairings, some winter pastels, and maybe even a mixture of both!

I hope your week is off to a fabulous start!

I'd love to hear some of your favorite colors to wear in fall (I know basic black is always a classic)!

DD's Style File - Statement Lace

2015-10-02T04:00:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I am going to keep it all the way real in this here post today...

First, I have abhorred lace (on me) for as long as I can remember.

It was my opinion that it looked old ladyish and made me look dated.

Well, I figure I must be turning into an old lady...

And it was this very dress that changed it all!

Ain't a thang old about this right here!

I literally passed this dress over on the rack several times, insisting that it just was not "my style." Until I ultimately ran out of options and saw that it was one of the only remaining dresses left in my size, so I tried it just for giggles (since the color was all pretty and whatnot).

Imagine my immediate surprise when I stepped into the mirror and LOVED it. Like getting compliments from strangers, despite your polka dot ankle socks, had me wanting to strut out of the store wearing it kinda love.

Dress: c/o David's Bridal (similar, similar, similar)
Clutch: The Limited - old (other options here and here)

Shoes: INC for Macy's

I got the dress back in the spring and finally had a chance to wear it to a wedding this past weekend. Which because of my newly acquired appendage, I almost changed my mind about going to. In the end, I put on my Cinderella shoe and obviously went. I saw some old friends, did some chair dancing and had a nice time.

Now, as I mentioned in the post opening....I'm keeping it extra real today. So, with that....below is a shot of what my blogging shoots are really looking like these days:

Yes, divas, me and the Frankenfoot are not only keeping it fierce at social functions, but I'm pushing forward capturing blog photos for all you lovelies!

And I'd say today's post definitely could teach all of us (myself included) a little something:

Lesson #1: Don't pass over something until you give it a try. You might actually surprise yourself.

When doing personal style outings, I would always say to my clients - just try it first - but it wasn't something that I necessarily adhered to for myself. Because I felt I already had a firm grasp on what worked for me. Yet since wearing this dress, I'm expanding my fashion horizons, and I actually purchased two lace tops that I plan to wear soon.

Lesson #2: Don't let a bump in the road ruin the entire road trip.

Ok, so I totally just made that up. What I mean that to say don't let something unexpected (like a fugly orthopedic boot) ruin the big picture. After getting this boot, I felt like social plans were put on hold, mostly because I felt clunky and clumsy (98.9% of the time, I have a sneaker on my good foot). Even though turning into a hermit felt really tempting, I just decided to make different plans instead. So, sure, I didn't get to wear the birthday dress I picked out, but I still put on something that made me feel good and had some very nice dinner outings with friends and family.

In short, if the road gets a little bumpy, just try an alternate route.

Wishing you all a fabulous weekend! Will anybody be bringing out those fall wardrobe pieces??

Let's Get Fancy! - SUPER EASY DIY Pom Pom Shoe Clips

2015-09-25T04:00:00.000-04:00

Poms poms are showing up all over the place! Topping off hats, furry details on key chains, and adding frou frou to handbags! And they're even showing up on shoes!

Credit : 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

Poms on shoes add an unconventional element and bring a little bit of something extra special to an outfit! Adding a poufy punch to everything from ballet flats to red bottoms, in a variety of colors, sizes and fabrics. There are a several retailers out there where you can find clips like these made from luxe materials for $50 a pair or more.

Today's DIY will give you the chance to save yourself some cash (for that new pair of shoes) and still have some fashion fun!

What you'll need:

- A segment of felt - just enough to cut two quarter sized rounds from
- Scissors
- Glue gun
- Shoe clips (I got mine from etsy)
- A pair of pompoms (I ordered mine from JoAnn Fabrics, no fancy fur, they're just acrylic)

Find the size pom that's right for you. For my first set, I decided to go big (and bright) or go home! So feel free to pick the size and shade that best represents your style.

1. Simply cut out your quarter sized round from the felt (I eyeballed mine).

2. Attach your clip with the hot glue to the center of the felt. Press it firmly to make sure it adheres, but be careful as the metal will be hot. Allow a few moments to cool.

3. Then apply a generous amount of glue to the other side of the felt and press it to the bottom of the pom. Mine had a flattish surface on the bottom. I left my clip open as it cooled (see image 3 above) so that the glue wouldn't seep through and make it stick together.

Once cooled, you can close the clip and complete your other pompom.

And in literally less than 15 minutes you've got a new pair of clips to sass up any pair of shoe you want!

Hey, why go for just bows on your toes, when poms are the bomb?!

Leopard Flats: H&M - sold out
similar, similar, similar, similar

Have a wonderful weekend!

It's My BIRTHDAY!!!

2015-09-21T04:00:00.000-04:00

Yes, yes, y'all!! It's a Diva's birthday today!! Ayyyyeeeee!!!

Despite the tumultuous last six weeks, I am ever grateful and maintaining my positivity. I feel blessed and so appreciative that I am here to see another year!

I am typically a Monday curmudgeon, but I ain't even mad because today is MY Monday!

So, me and this boot are going to beaming sunshine and rainbows and embracing the little joys, like my free Starbucks goodie and Sephora birthday lippies, until my head hits the pillow this evening!

It's still Virgo Season, people! Be sure to find a Virgo diva and give her some love!

Happy birthday to me, Happy birthday to me! Haaaaaapppyyyyyy biiiiiirrrtthhhhdaaaaayyyy!!!

DD's Style File - Bold Gold

2015-09-18T04:00:00.000-04:00

It is getting to be about that time, y'all... The summer is winding on down and we're heading into the final warm days of summer.

The end of summer for me was always marked by my birthday (which is right around the corner) and I consider any other warm days after that to be a seasonal anomaly in my book!

I got the chance to pull this lovely skirt out one last time. I don't wear it nearly as often as I'd like, but it's still one of my favs.

I thought the floaty chiffon paired perfectly with the feminine detailing of the top. And to add a bit of edge, I topped the look off with bold gold accessories.

Top: Kohl's - old (similar, similar, similar)

Skirt: Forever 21 - old (similar, similar)

Belt: ASOS (I'm also selling one on Poshmark)

Shoes: Kohl's - old (similar, similar, similar)

There's no question that the star of the show is this eye catching gold belt. I want to wear it with everything! I think it's going to look amazing this fall over an all black ensemble. It's certainly one of those pieces that I consider an investment, because of the sticker price. In my opinion it's totally worth it, as due to it's versatility you can wear it with all kinds of things, which balances out the CPW.

I've been doing some reading about capsule wardrobes and will be delving into that in the upcoming weeks. And although I don't think the minimalist wardrobe is for me, personally, I do believe that having statement pieces like this to incorporate can certainly bring a dash of something special to a capsule collection or a hoarder's closet like mine!

I'd love to hear your feelings on the minimalist capsule wardrobe, do you love them or are you a fellow hoarder at heart??

Have a wonderful weekend!!

DD's Style File - Polka Dots & Tulle

2015-09-16T04:00:00.000-04:00

On those occasions that I head out with purely the intent to browse or return items, instantly evolve into the days that I end up buying stuff. Good buys, but unintended, none the less.

But, trust me, if I head out for the purpose of buying some new pieces and looking for something special, that is GUARANTEED to be the day that I spend hours roaming aimless and bagless.

Skirt: Forever 21 - sold out (similar)
Dress worn as top: ASOS - old (similar, similar, similar)
Pumps: Kohl's - old (cute options: here, here, and here and a flat option)
Belt: old (other options: similar, similar, similar)
Clutch: Macy's

I happened upon this skirt on one of those non-shopping occasions. I had returned some items to one store and just stopped off in Forever 21 to take a looksy. And there was this darling skirt in on a rack by its lonesome in a section in which it did not even belong.

My size and $20. Sold!

The salesgirl even told me this was the only one they'd received and us fashion girls know how special that is!

It is simply one of the cutest pieces I have in my wardrobe and I've held on to it for some time waiting for just the right kind of top to pair with it. That "perfect" top never came and I ran out of patience, so this time I wore a dress as a shirt for a more casual feel. Re-purposing items in your closet to do double duty is always awesome, right?!

I hope your week is off to a great start!!

Life Lately...August, Absences & Clunky Boots

2015-09-14T04:00:00.000-04:00

Hello World and Happy Monday!

Let me start by saying that August didn't turn out all the way I'd intended. I have been M.I.A. far longer than planned. Basically, the demands of life stepped in and pretty much took over! Between playing catch up at my 9 to 5 and school starting back for the fall I was pretty much tapped out.... The next thing I knew, it was getting well in to September.

Even better, my creativity has been given a serious challenge, as I was recently "gifted" with this:

Lovely, right?.. And oh so fashion friendly (not...).

Turns out I've got a fractured bone in my foot, so I've been sentenced to at least six weeks of living with this boot then hopefully I'll be able to gradually return to "normalcy."

Unfortunately, sometimes shoes just MAKE the outfit... There are certainly days where I get dressed based on what shoes I'm wearing. So, needless to say, this has put a serious damper on on the whole style post situation. *ugh* I do have a couple regular style posts coming up this week, but please bear with me as I try to navigate these blogging waters sans cute shoes. *sad panda*

I'm definitely seeing some beauty reviews and DIY posts in my future!

Before I head off let me just say despite my displeasure of this whole unfortunate situation, I am certainly glad that it didn't happen before I got a chance to appear on the Today Show (could you imagine the devastation!?) and as much as I'm refusing to embrace the approaching fall season, my left foot is thrilled that it is no longer 90 degrees and humid. It's all about being grateful of the little things, right?

Pray for me y'all!!

DD's Style File - Sweet as a Peach

2015-08-05T04:00:00.000-04:00

Can you believe that summer is actually winding down to a close?! At least here in the northeast, August and the start of the new school year signals one last "official" summer weekend. With that being Labor Day.

I mean it's seriously sad though! We get what feels like nine months of winter and consistent summer temperatures don't even seem to want to make an appearance until July

The sun decided to play games with me when I pulled out my gear to take these photos. Not only does the sun want to run away sooner in the day, but as I pulled out and set up all my gear, it decided to hide behind the clouds. Give me a break!

But I pressed on, in hopes of catching what sunlight I could. I didn't want bright light because it completely washed out the warm peachy color of this dress and made it appear lighter than it really is. So I wanted more golden sunset lighting.

Seriously though, I can't say what it was that I really ended up with, but it wasn't anything "golden." But my pup was in his car seat being super well behaved, so I took that as a sign to capture what images I could (is anyone else's dog more like a clingy fur child? No? Just me?... Oh...ok :-/).

But about the dress - totes adorbs, right?! I found it during my trip to Puerto Rico last fall (where I had NO intention of shopping and was dragged to the mall against my will). And as soon as I saw this, I loved, loved, loved the soft summer peach shade. As much as I love shift and trapeze style dresses, I have a long spanning affection for maxi dresses. I do feel our summers here don't give me nearly enough opportunities to wear them as often as I'd like.

Like this one, they are a great way to dress up in flats for a nice dinner on the patio or a quick way to look like you put in more effort than you really did when running errands. I would easily rock this to the grocery with oversized hoop earrings and toss on these same sandals or a basic metallic flip flop and I'm out the door.

Dress: Macy's (similar, beautiful option)
Sandals: NY&Co - old (similar, similar)
Necklace: gift from my mommy (similar, similar)

And, divas, let's not forget that maxis hide a multitude of things that we'd really like to hide. I would just suggest that if you're going to be with small children that still require picking up, don't go with a strapless dress like this, lessens the chance for an accidental peep show.

If you're a more petite height your can still do a maxi length. It's an asset to find a great seamstress, but if you'd like to avoid that expense, I'm sure YouTube can show you tons of ways to hem a dress without needing a needle and thread (as seen here).

This post is also a part of Mix & Match Fashion's Summer Style Link Up!

DD's Style File: Fashion Fairy

2015-07-29T04:00:00.000-04:00

I have no problem whatsoever wearing tulle, sequins and sparkly jewelry in my every day life. I, of course, consider where I'm heading and what's going on that day, but I basically feel like the unintentional Carrie in my little city on the lake.

I can't bring myself to pass up pretty things just because I can't think of when or where I'll get to wear them. Now, of course, there's a meter to this, and some stuff just doesn't make for a budget friendly sensible buy. So I mourn my loss and leave it on the rack for the next diva. But I enjoy incorporating whimsy into my life, and I'm certainly not going to pass it up because of what someone else might think. And that goes for a decadent, delectable treat when I'm on a mission to eat right or this Cinderella-esque skirt right here in a world of khaki.

And tulle is having one heck of a moment right now. I personally think that it all started with amazing and talented personal style bloggers, like KTRStyle, a while back then just caught on like wildfire. Which why I was able to troop into Kohl's a few months back and find a rack of $50 tulle skirts. I know it's not for everybody, but I'm here for it, at least for this moment in my fashion journey.

Top: ASOS - old (similar, similar, similar)
Skirt: Kohl's (similar, similar)
Shoes: Michelle K. - super old (similar color, a bow option, similar style)
Purse: JCPenney - old (similar, similar, similar print)

Before I head off, I'm going to leave you all with the struggles of a personal style blogger. First off, on photo shoot day it got too friggin' bright out once I had my gear set up. But I was there and decided to snap what I could despite the blinding sun and ferocious heat making perspiration trickle down my back. On top of that, my heel tip almost got snatched off in between the boardwalk planks. And if the picture below looks like I lost something....I nearly did. My shutter remote slipped out of my hand and almost slid into the lake! So this is definitely a candid outtake, but my outfit angles looked good though! So I kept it in!

Ok! I'm done with my whining!!

The last day of my summer university course is tomorrow and I can finally get back on a regular schedule after five weeks. I'm off to do the Nae Nae in celebration!!

The Struggle with Oily Skin is Real: Multi Foundation Review

2015-07-27T04:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's post on Instagram got me to thinking that I could probably do some kind of beauty review on some of the foundations on my rotation lately. Well, technically, they're not rotating. I've pretty much mashed them together in an effort to create the PERFECT foundation for my skin type.

Here's the goal:

- smooths

- evens tone

- looks natural

- feels natural

- combats my oilies

I know, I know I'm asking for a makeup miracle, but here's the thing...I don't really wear a lot of foundation, which is where the desire for natural feeling coverage comes in. I have some uneven tone due to hyperpigmentation (I'm a serial pimple popper) and I have oily skin equivalent to bacon grease (like for reals). I'm sure I'll appreciate this oil factory later in life, but right now, it's more of a pain.

In addition to the foundations pictured, I also wear the Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation in NC45, but find that coverage works best in cooler months, though I do typically use a dusting of it as a finishing powder over my liquid foundations.

Here's my issue... I was uber intrigued by the CoverFX Custom Cover Drops. so I had to try them out (but of course). I didn't love them, but was determined to make them work for me if only for their $45 price tag. The problem I had was that even after pouring over the shades for 2 days, my shade G60, was a tad off. A smidge too yellow, but I don't want to buy another bottle in G70. Then of all the mixing mediums I tried, the only one I truly liked was with the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer. But after a couple hours you know I'm looking like the canola factory.

Next, I decided to try Maybelline's Fit Me Matte & Poreless. Love, love, love the formula and it addressed nearly all of my needs/concerns, especially the oil control, however the shade range sucked. There's only 16 to choose from. I chose shade 330 Toffee as the next shade. 355 Coconut. was too deep and too red for me. What I really need is a shade between those two, that still has a golden undertone. I'm going to keep wishing for that one, but in the meantime, I decided to start trying to mix my own.

Using the No7 Beautifully Matte Makeup Base as my mixing medium proved to be just what I needed for my CoverFX drops. And in order to get the oil control I need, I apply this concoction over skin on which I've also applied a thinner primer. I told y'all, this summer oil control business is real.

Grainy iPhone photo, but you get the idea...

The Covergirl Ready Set Gorgeous isn't a bad formula, it just isn't high on the list and because that shade is too dark for me, I use it to add a deeper warmth to my custom foundation mix, so that it isn't so yellow. The grainy pic above looks relatively good color wise, but it depends on the lighting. It usually looks kind of 'meh' when I leave the house, even a bit too chalky. but by the time it starts to settle onto my skin an hour or so later it looks pretty darn good and I don't have to blot until about 1:30. Sometimes I'll apply Urban Decay's De-Slick to speed up the "settling" process, but I think that seems to cause early oil breakthrough, even though that's the opposite of what it's designed to do.

Ultimately, I'm still working this out for myself, but hope I've given fellow oily girls some recommendations that you may find helpful, especially if you're not AS oily as me. But if you have any tips, tricks or foundation recommendations I'm all ears!

Have a great week!

DD's Style File - Tulips & Florals

2015-07-22T04:00:00.000-04:00

According to the fashion gawds, florals are in for spring and summer... So let's chat about one of my fav floral inspired shapes - the tulip cut.

Tulip cuts offer a sexy, covered alternative to more revealing tops. Where you only get a peek of skin if the wind blows just the right way. I honestly think that one part of the appeal is that the top itself mimics the shape of a swing tops and dresses. They just have a certain kind of sway to them.

I thought the cut and length of this top worked perfectly with these pants, which I don't get to wear nearly as often as I would like. And pairing complimentary solids with a busier print is a great way to highlight the print in a cohesive way.

Top: Marshall's (similar, similar)

Pants: Forever 21 (similar)

Shoes: Kohl's (similar)

Clutch: The Limited (similar)

Earrings: Burlington Coat Factory (old)

Watch: ALDO (similar)

Like I mentioned in my previous post about paisley, I'm honestly not typically a floral girl, but the right print done the right way can really work. But neither is a print that I think you'd find much of in my closet.

If you know a brand that really executes floral prints well, I'd love to hear about it!

DD's Style File - Perfect Paisley

2015-07-15T04:00:00.000-04:00

I have been a baaaaad blogger lately... I'm so behind it's terrible. But I blame it on the nice, suddenly summer weather! It doesn't help that I've been taking a summer college course since the end of June and by the time my "day" ends, bedtime approaches super quick.

Daily demands aside, you would think that sunny days would be all the encouragement needed to head out, tripod in hand, ready to take some blog photos. On the contrary, lately I've felt more prompted to simply enjoy those days. Especially since, as luck would have it, they seemed to fall on the weekend.

And I won't let my guilt eat me up about it. As much as I love blogging, here in the northeast we see waaaay more gray, dreary, cold days than we do hot summer ones. And in December, I'd rather not look back and think that I missed out on a walk with my pup and playing at the park with my nieces because I was taking photos.

But I'm working it all out! Even if at times, to me, it feels more like clumsy juggling!

While on the topic of those summer days, this dress seemed to epitomize that whole summer chic thing!

I, personally, never went gaga over Lily Pulitzer, even with all of her girlish whimsy. But for whatever reason, the blue/pink paisley print of this dress kinda gave me that lightweight perfect for summer in Capri feeling that Lily gives off. The fabric is breathable, the fit is comfortable and it is easily one of the most stylish things I've probably ever snatched out of my closet.

Dress: The Limited

Shoes: Seychelles - old (similar color options here, here, here, & here)

Bag: The Limited - sold out (similar style)

Necklace: The Limited - old (similar, similar length, longer style, another option,)

I'm sure I've gone on about my love for the shift dress before (as a matter of fact, I'm positive, here and here), so it's obviously an easy outfit recipe I stand by. But if shift dresses don't quite work for your figure, have no fear! An essential wrap dress could certainly stand in it's place.

The point is truly all about having a dress with a silhouette which you find flattering to your shape, and having that work as a tried and true piece to build an outfit around - shoes, bag, statement necklace/bracelet or earring and you're done! Seriously!

For me this dress was just plain fun! It wasn't a print that I would typically gravitate too, and it was actually something really different from any other pieces in my closet.

On the flip side, I also recently got a fab-u-lous staple wrap dress in black that I think you all would love too. I plan to do a post about that just as soon as I can get some good photos (black can be hard to photograph). It's a super dreamy weight, but it has sleeves, so the day I actually wore it had that what-kind-of-summer-is-this type of weather. Which was not at all optimal for photos! But stayed tuned!