Living the (COLOR)full Life

Bar Cart DIY: RE-vamped and RE-styled

2014-01-15T21:04:00.001-08:00

So if anyone knows me...I love a good DIY. So when I ran across this vintage bar cart at the local thrift shop I was ecstatic....when I found out it was only $24 dollars you can about imagine how long it took me before I was running out the door with it in hand!! It was in perfect condition.... no dents or holes...just a little rust that would be gone in no time with some sanding.

The first step that needed to be done was to dissemble the entire cart, which let me tell you, this took a lot more time than you would imagine... rusted in screws that have never been touched can be a major pain. Next, I sanded down all the rusty areas and then wiped it down with a wet rag. After, that I then used a Krylon satin white primer/paint to coat all the trays. When the trays where coated, we then used a Kyrlon gold metallic to spray the silver hardware. Once it was all dry, it was reassembled and re-decorated... my favorite part! I've been on a huge white and gold kick lately, so it wasn't hard to find the perfect pieces to compliment this lovely vintage cart!

My Summer in the Pink Palace

2013-08-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

I'm back, and what better way to start off my year then reminiscing on the best summer of my life! To say that my summer was a dream summer would be a complete understatement! This summer I worked everyday in a big, pink building known as the "Pink Palace" or Lilly Pulitzer!

From the moment I set foot in the pink palace, I was surrounded by vibrant colors, massive palm trees, and a big white juice stand.....everything that would make you think I was in Palm Beach instead of King of Prussia! Every single day I was able to bury myself in watercolor, ink, gouache, or anything that would elevate my creativity and inspire me to create one of a kind "Lilly-like" prints. Not only did the pink palace itself inspire me, but I was constantly surrounded by eight other extremely talented print designers who each brought such a unique and entirely different perspective to the team. Working as a print design intern has been my dream, and being at Lilly Pulitzer this summer has made me realize even more why it is so important to find your passion and never lose sight of it!

Shine On

2013-05-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

"Don't shine so others can see you, shine so that through you, others can see"

I found this quote (on pinterest of course) and could not think a better way to describe this painting then to "Shine On." The bold mixture of blues and pinks are so vibrant and instantly put me in a better mood...I know that sounds cliche but it's true! I knew I had always wanted to paint something that was "chevron-inspired" but I wanted to break away from the symmetrical norm and create a piece that was my own style. To finish it off, I decided to add a sleek and simple gold frame!

Tres Leches Cake and The Feeling of Home

2013-03-09T15:32:00.002-08:00

I absolutely love the feeling of home. With my schedule becoming more and more hectic with the craziness of school, it's becoming rare when I can find a weekend to slip away from it all. I have always grown up loving to bake and cook. I feel that it's just one of those things you either love or hate....or learn to love because you have no other choice. Well for me, I love it! SO any spare moment I am home I live in the kitchen. My mom and I have been crazy obsessed with all of the Pioneer Women's recipes. It is one of those cookbooks that continues to produce fool proof recipes that will please your entire family. So this weekend we decided to give the classic Tres Leches Cake a run for it's money. With the weather finally starting to warm up, we were in the mood for a light and airy cake that was full of flavor and that's exactly what this cake delivered! The trick to this cake is making sure you "over" poke it so it has enough room for heavenly three milks to soak in fully. They say that it is even better the next day, but that's pretty hard to believe since I couldn't even imagine it being any more perfect then it already is! You can find this drool worthy recipe here: Tres Leckes Cake....enjoy!

Your Valentines Day Low-down

2013-02-14T07:12:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. Either it's one of your most dreaded days to celebrate (which in that case you probably don't really "celebrate" it huh?) OR you and your special someone enjoy taking advantage of getting each other flowers, chocolate,the whole nine yards.... either way, you can't escape it...it's VALENTINES DAY! Even if you don't plan on celebrating...why not take full advantage of being able to eat endless amounts of chocolate throughout the day without being judged and buying yourself a stellar party dress...now thats what I'm talkin' about!

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Worth it now....worth it later!

2013-02-05T12:18:00.000-08:00

So lately I've been having a huge urge to buy a "staple purse." A purse that will not only be versatile but classy and timeless as well. I am so used to buying fun and funky bags but have realized those only last so long! Below I listed a few of my favorites that I am currently obsessing over.

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Birthday {Wish}list

2013-01-18T10:24:00.002-08:00

With my 21st birthday just around the corner, I have a whole lot to smile about lately! I now will be able to order a casual drink at dinner or pick out the bottle of wine we get when I'm out with my family ( I may not have full rein on this luxury... this is usually my wine enthusiast dad's job). But better yet, I will be in NYC to celebrate in style for Vince Camuto Market Week. February could not come soon enough so I felt it was suitable to create my birthday WISH list. Now I'm not expecting to receive everything on my "wish" list...or even half of it for that matter, but every birthday girl deserves to dream a little!

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Pantone Color 2013: Emerald

2013-01-12T20:54:00.000-08:00

Spring is just around the corner and what better way to jump into the season then with a fresh new color palette to update your wardrobe! Emerald is the word. This vibrant and fresh color is the perfect switch from the cold, boring, and blah weather....take a look at a few things to get excited about for the new year and new color!

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Discovered Treasure

2012-12-31T12:26:00.005-08:00

If I never see a piece of blue painter's tape ever again I would be completely fine....I'm just kidding, but really.

For years and years every time I would start to approach my hometown of Columbus, NE there is a big white barn that greets you on the outskirts of town. Whenever I pass by it, something would always trigger my curiosity of what's inside. I am always looking for projects to "re-do" and make into something beautiful. So on my way home from Christmas break I was determined to go once and for all. When I first walked inside of this massive barn, I didn't see much. A lot of of knick-nacks, old dinnerware and 1950's paintings with broken frames. When I made my way up the stairs, there were mainly old sofa's that where torn and in poor condition. Now I'm all about turning something that is about to burst at the seams into a masterpiece, but some of these pieces were beyond repair. As I turned the corner a vintage chest caught my eye. It has a torn broken handle and was starting to rust on the hardware. Immediately I envisioned of what a little TLC could do to this vintage chest. So $40 later on a blustering Saturday afternoon and it was mine!

So now I had my handy work cut-out of me. With a little help from my boyfriend....okay okay, A LOT, of help from my boyfriend, we were able to turn this vintage chest into a potential coffee table for my apartment next year.

The order we went about repairing the chest could be considered as our first mistake...rookie mistake might I add. We decided to strip and prime the wood first when we ultimately should have painted the gold hardware first. So we striped and primed the wood, covered it with blue tape, and then sprayed the canvas panels with primer and then white paint. Great, so now we only have the hardware left to "hand paint" gold right? Right! Expect one minor problem that turned into a major problem....there was no paint (other then spray paint) that would stick to the hardware and still give it a streak-free smooth look. So after hours and hours of contemplating and experimenting we decided to just cover EVERY INCH of the chest with blue tape so we could spray paint the hardware with gold metallic to give it the best appearance. After many rolls of blue tape later, one sharp exacto knife, and a back ache that still won't go away...the chest was done!

New Painting: Drops of Fire

2012-12-20T15:37:00.001-08:00

Home for the Holidays means time to get down to business and get a few paintings done! Now after every painting I complete I always tell myself "this is by far my favorite one!" But each time I say that I truly mean it! The more and more I splatter paint onto the canvas the more it leads to all the possibilities of a big white blank space. Often times when I am finished with a painting, it's not the design the wins me over, its the combination of the colors and how well they react on the canvas. In my opinion, you can have an awesome design, but if the colors aren't right then it completely distracts the eye from the painting. So color is KEY and that is why I love this painting so much. It has a wonderful balance of warm and cool hues that don't overpower eachother. I am often times hesitant when I begin to mix such opposite color families but if you nail just the right proportions it can leave a brilliant outcome!

Spotlight Feature: Lands' End Canvas

2012-12-14T18:20:00.002-08:00

So lately I've realized that in the long run it really pays to spend a little more on quality pieces that you know will last you for years down the road...if only I would have realized this sooner right? Right! Now I'm not saying that if you find a top or skirt for $15 that doesn't mean it's not "good quality" but I am saying that if you do happen to come across a staple item that is on the higher end of your budget, don't stray away....these are often time the pieces that will last you for years down the road instead of one night out on the town and then you're done!

Lands' End has been known for years for producing quality apparel! They recently came out with the line called "Canvas" that caters men and women that still want the quality, price to fit the budget, and stylish trends that your grandma wouldn't be able to wear. What I really love about this brand is the versatility it offers. I am in love with the gold sequin skirt below and how it would be perfect to wear to a work Christmas party. With so many classic styles with the right price tag, Canvas is definitely worth your time! Take a look at EVERYTHING HERE!

Dress-Up Your Jewelry!

2012-12-07T16:39:00.002-08:00

If your jewelry is meant to dress you up, don't you think it deserves to be dressed up every once in awhile too? These fabulous jewelry boxes will not only pamper your pearls and gold but would be the perfect stylish addition to the top of your dresser! With a price that fits the budget, these items would make the perfect gift on anyone's Christmas list!

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The Ultimate Gift Guide- Guest Blogger Lauren Lemke

2012-12-03T10:01:00.003-08:00

Counting down the days until Christmas? Me too! Time for family, Christmas music, and of course, picking out the best presents (because it really is better to give than to receive, right?). If you’re stuck on what to ask for, or to get your mom, sister, or best friend, we have you covered! Here are the best gifts to give (or put on your own list) this holiday season, no matter your budget.

Best Gifts under $50

Hair Ties/ Battery Charger/ Link Bracelet/ Cosmetic Case/ Socks/ Wrap Watch

Best Gifts Under $100

Sweater/ Necklace/ Wallet/ Snood/ Cashmere Glittens/ Drop Earrings

Best Gifts Under $200

Cardigan/ Boots/ Pajama Set/ Bag/ Vest/ Shoes

Happy Shopping!

XO, Lauren

Vince Camuto's Holiday Wish List Sweepstakes!

2012-11-29T09:25:00.002-08:00

Tis the Season!! What better way to kick off your holiday season with a $2,000 shopping spree for yourself AND $400 to give to a friend?! Yep, thats right! NOW Through December 7th on The Vince Camuto Facebook Page you can enter to have to chance to be one of five who will win $2,000 for themselves and $400 to give to a friend....no strings attached! One simple click and you are good to go! There will also be five runner-ups who will receive $500 to spend at Vincecamuto.com as well...not too shabby huh?! So go ahead and spread the holiday cheer! Click the link below to Enter.

Vince Camuto Holiday Wish List Sweepstakes

Fall Florals & Fur

2012-11-19T19:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Week! I don't know how you spend your turkey day but I most likely will be stuffing my face with endless amounts of turkey and pecan pie which will then result in a four hour food coma......bring it on. Anyways...fall florals and fur is probably my all time favorite fall combination, not to mention the endless layering possibilities that come along with it. Pair a chambray top underneath and throw on some booties (from Target for $29.99...now you love them even more right?) to complete the look!

Fur Vest: Stella (local boutique)

Denim Shirt: Jcrew (found here)

Floral Jeans: Target (found here)

Booties: Target (found here)

Bag: Stella (local boutique)

Necklace: Mildred & Bernice (found here)

Watch: Michael Kors (found here)

The Turtle Neck Comeback

2012-11-10T22:01:00.001-08:00

Photo 1: Milly/ C Wonder/ Gap/ Jcrew

Photo 2: Jcrew/ Stella & Dot/ Madewell/ Jcrew

So to be honest, when I think of turtle-necks a few things that come to mind are: outdated, old-lady, and something you would wear to an ugly christmas sweater party with embroidered candy canes on the side. Lately however I have been proved wrong of all of these. Turtle necks now are one of the best staple sweaters that can be dressed up with a blazer and statement necklace or be dressed down with a puffer vest and scarf....you take your pick! While providing comfort and style here above are a few of my favorites that will suit a magnitude of your style needs!

Florida Love

2012-10-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

Family, the beach, good food, and great laughter....what more could I possibly ask for? This fall break I left the cool midwest temps for the warm Florida sun and sand in between my toes. My older sister Lauren lives in Fort Myers but we spent most of our time in Naples at the Ritz-Carlton Resort where we were treated to endless food and desserts, pina colada's, and couldn't leave without visiting the spa of course! Needless to say this break was beyond wonderful, much needed and I am already looking at flights on when to return.

Sweater Weather

2012-10-19T12:11:00.001-07:00

Cable Knit: found here

Chunky Floral: found here

Bold Stripe: found here

Asymmetrical Solid: found here

There really isn't a better feeling then being able to throw on a comfy, over-slouched sweater with riding boots to run your daily errands... right? Sweater weather is hands down my favorite time of the year. With countless options to choose from, you can dress it up or dress it down and still stay stylish and fabulous while doing so! Happy Friday!

Duo of the Day!

2012-09-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

Does Jcrew ever go wrong? I really don't think so. With timeless, staple pieces it can be very hard to walk into their store and come out empty handed! These two stunning items above have caught my eye! With leopard being a hot fall print, these Collection MacAlister calf hair wedge boots would definitely be worth the splurge paired perfectly with the brilliant purple Tillary Purse! Ohhh the endless options at Jcrew...now only if I had an endless budget as well!

Fabulous Friday Feature: Loren Hope Jewelry

2012-09-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Everyone! I came across these fabulous jewels when I was on Instagram the other day (shocker I know) and just had to share the love. Loren Hope mixes elements of modern vintage with bold color and hardware to create one of a kind pieces that you can't find anywhere. I also fell in love with the unique structure of the pieces (such as the earrings above) and her eye for mixing unusual colors to create a one of a kind design. You can't go wrong with bright, classy and timeless jewelry...so go ahead and treat yourself, it is Friday after all!

To see more of Loren Hope click here!

I Want Candy! Burberry Prorsum RTW Spring 2013

2012-09-17T14:07:00.002-07:00

How can these colors NOT make you want candy?? Burberry's RTW collection that hit the runway today in London and is anything but boring and blah. Christopher Bailey definitely had a vision of playful, bold, and electrifying when he created the spring 2013 collection. The texture of foil wrappers were implemented into pleated dresses and skirts that catches the eye at first glance on the runway. He did a great job too of giving the color a break by mixing up the collection with calming neutrals and rose golds. I am definitely loving how much color has been hitting the runway lately and I don't expect it to go away for awhile! Check out the rest of the runway collection here

The Fall Five

2012-09-16T13:35:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger: Lauren Lemke, you can also find her blog posts here for JCR Girls!

With cooling temperatures and football Saturdays, it’s finally autumn. I love this season because of the endless outfit options: Layering is easy without having to be weighed down by bulky winter coats. Now that fall is upon us, here’s five pieces that should be new staples in your fall closet:

#1: A great cashmere sweater

Cashmere is about as timeless as it gets. And although the hefty price tag often keeps it on the racks instead of in your shopping bag, trust me, it’s a piece worth investing in. Find a flattering cut in a basic color and I promise you will get your money’s worth and then some. These J.Crew and Madewell sweaters are cute, comfy, and can be so versatile through the fall and winter.

Madewell/ found here

Jcrew/ found here

#2: Updated Blazers

We all love a classic black blazer. It works with skinnies and a white shirt for a laid back look, or over a dress for a dinner and a movie outfit. But lately our favorite black blazer has gotten a facelift. In new colors and cuts, blazers can be much more than just an add on: they can make the whole outfit.

Zara/ found here

Jcrew/ found here

#3: Loafers

Lately I am absolutely obsessed with switching out my beloved flats for a great pair of loafers. Before I found this pair, I always immediately thought of old men when I heard the word loafer. Wrong. Made in cute cuts and even cuter patterns, loafers are a great switch for flats and look great with those fall dresses, cardigans, and a scarf.

Madewell/ found here

Steve Madden/ found here

#4: Fox Accessories

Yes it sounds crazy, but foxes are taking over the fashion world. My favorite sightings have been in belts and bracelets. This is a preppy addition to any outfit, and is that extra pop that can make or break any ensemble. This Tory Burch bracelet looks gorgeous layered with other bracelets or by itself. I know it may seem weird wearing a fox head on your wrist but trust me, you can pull it off.

Tory Burch/ found here

#5 Leather

And I’m not just talking about a moto jacket either. Leather is huge this season in every way, from skirts to dresses to accessories. If you’re scared trying leather full out, try these pieces that mix leather with other fabrics. It’ll give your outfit a punch without making you feel like you belong on the Matrix.

Vince Camuto/ found here

Zara/ found here

Vince Camuto "Back to Boots" Giveaway

2012-09-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Boots, boots, and more boots! With fall almost in full swing (my favorite time of the year) that means pumpkin spice lattes, over-slouched sweaters and the perfect pair of boots! Right now Vince Camuto has there "Back to Boots" sweepstakes going on until the 19th! Each day through the Vince Camuto tab on their facebook page they are giving away five free pairs of boots! All you need to do is click on the pair you love and submit your name....how easy is that!! Whats even better is, the person who shares the contest the most will win $1,000 to www.VinceCamuto.com (can you imagine?!) So go ahead and officially get in the fall mood with YOUR free pair of lovely Vince Camuto Boots! Click Here to Enter!

Spring 2013 RTW Spotlight: Mara Hoffman

2012-09-09T14:47:00.000-07:00

With NYFW being in full swing I am totally envious wishing I was there to witness some of these beyond beautiful collections! One collection that caught my eye was Mara Hoffman's Spring 2013 RTW. With a fun, vibrant, laid-back island theme... whats not to love! Chiffon maxi gowns and bright embroidery detail, and color-blocking brights make her collection one of my favorites.

Your Perfect...LBD

2012-08-29T06:41:00.001-07:00

Being the new campus rep at UNL for Vince Camuto has made me fall in love with the brand even more! The black dress below is absolutely perfect for any occasion. Whether your going out for a night on the town or just need something to throw on for a dinner party.... you can't go wrong! I love these statement cheetah pumps to complete the look with some added in bright accessories to top everything off!

All the above items can be found at- Vince Camuto

Your Perfect...LBD by libbyrlemke featuring art deco jewelry