Material Instinct

Funny Little Valentine

2014-02-04T15:59:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day is coming up and whether you're in a relationship or not it's a fantastic excuse to add some CUTE to your life! And if you're looking for some VDay inspiration, I've scoured the Internet to bring you the cutest:

Happy V'Day B*tches - Pink Slouchy Oversized Sweatshirt $29

SCRATCH Love Letter Nail Wraps $12

North American Bear Co. "Be Mine Goody Bag" $12

AE Short Sleeve Intarsia Sweater $39.95

Mel by Melissa Mel Raspberry Pumps $75

Rose Heart Bath Bombs $11.25

Hate Hearts Mark II Skirt $20

Review: BPS Black & Rose Gold Watch

2014-01-13T16:07:00.000-05:00

I was recently asked to do a review for bornprettystore.com watches and jumped at the chance! I love watches and was taken aback by all the choices the website had to offer. I ended up chosing a black silicone one with a rose gold and rhinestone dial. It's made by Geneva, a trusted and durable watch brand. I have been obsessing over rose gold for the past year now and I've been wanting a black watch so it was the perfect choice for me.

Burnished Fluorescent Silicone Student's Watch

*This style also comes in all the colors above.

It arrived much quicker than I expected (it traveled all the way from Asia) and came in an adorable striped gift box on a tiny velvet pillow!

I love this watch because it's casual and comfortable enough to wear every day, but the rose gold and rhinestone details make it easy to dress up too! Here's an example of how I would wear it:

The lovely BPS rep I worked with also gave me a special discount code for my readers. Just enter "VALERIEPC10" to get 10% off & FREE SHIPPING on any purchase!

Read the Born Pretty blog here: http://bornprettystore.blogspot.com

New Year's Resolutions 2014

2014-01-01T10:44:00.002-05:00

I've done quite a bit of self-reflection over the past year and while I've always been introspective, more recently I've been making a conscious effort to really process my thoughts, rather than just "think" them. I'll turn 30 (eek!) in 2014 and can finally say that I'm at place in my life where I acknowledge that I am solely responsible for where my life has taken me and also the only one responsible for taking it where I want it to go next. After all,

“Nobody’s going to save you. No one’s going to cut you down, cut the thorns thick around you. No one’s going to storm the castle walls nor kiss awake your birth, climb down your hair, nor mount you onto the white steed. There is no one who will feed the yearning. Face it. You will have to do, do it yourself.”

― Gloria E. Anzaldúa

In the past when making my resolutions I've kept them fairly vague and without clear instructions on how to accomplish them, so this time I'm going to be specific and include how I plan to succeed.

Without further adieu, here are my 2014 New Year's Resolutions:

1. Live a more healthy lifestyle. I will be mindful of my carbohydrate, gluten and sugar intake while also following a regular fitness plan.

How: I will use the myfitnesspal app to track calorie intake as well as exercise, follow Amanda Russel's Fit, Strong & Sexy program and make the most of the workouts, recipes and tips I find on Pinterest.

2. Save more money. I am moving back to my hometown (Sarasota, FL) in June so saving money for the move is priority 1. I will also pay down student loans and clean up my credit.

How: I will use a savings account I cannot easily access.

3. De-clutter. I will stop my hoarding tendencies and drastically cut down on all I have accumulated thus far.

How: I will use the "40 Bags in 40 Days" system as well as donate 2 boxes a month to charity. Anything worth selling will be sold and the funds will go directly into my savings account.

In addition to those top 3, I also intend to:

Cook more (a.k.a. learn to cook).
Read more (books, not just Us Weeklys).
Take better care of my skin (exfoliate & moisturize, ladies!).
Travel! Though I've been to all of them before, I plan to visit NYC, Key West & Disney World in 2014.

What are your New Year's Resolutions this year??

Fake It Til You Make It!

2013-11-19T15:03:00.000-05:00

Since moving to Tennessee from Florida last year, I'm finding it much harder to keep my natural tan. One thing I've noticed about my new southern surroundings however, is that a tanning bed is only a stone's throw away. I kid you not, there are tanning beds in video rental stores, gas stations and diners around here. Being tan is a big deal for women in my new state. Even more so than in Florida where laying out at the beach was a weekly ritual for my friends and I.

While tanning packages are fairly reasonable, I prefer to skip the UV bulbs and opt for a gradual fake tan from a bottle instead. I loved L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Luminous Bronzer but have recently found a product I love even more - Banana Boat Sunless Tan Lotion. Unlike the L'Oreal Bronzer, this one has no shimmer that can rub off on your sheets, clothes, etc. and it's steak-free, self-adjusting formula is almost as amazing as it's $6 price tag.

I'm a Medium/Olive skin tone naturally but find I look much healthier and can wear less makeup when I've got a nice dark tan going. It also makes my teeth look whiter!

Speaking of white teeth, my other favorite fake-it product is Crest Whitestrips. Currently, I'm using the 3D White 2-Hour Express but want to try the Intensive Professional Effects next.

One last "fake-it" I love to use when I can afford it is LiLash eyelash growth serum. If you've been reading my blog for a while now, you know I saw dramatic results and my before/after photos were undeniable. I LOVE this product and am anxious to start my LiLash routine again.

LiLash - The world's most popular purified eyelash serum - SHOP NOW

What are your favorite "fake-its"?

Happy Bday, 'Merica!

2013-07-04T15:21:00.000-04:00

Why am I not wearing these with a Bud Light in my hand on a pontoon boat somewhere? Why?!

Fresh Take Leggings in "Flag" on ModCloth

What To Wear: Cinco de Mayo

2013-05-04T17:39:00.000-04:00

"Where's the Salsa" tee - Spenglish

Cropped boyfriend jeans - Vince Camuto

Red sandals - Tory Burch

Pinata wallet - Xhilaration for Target

Silver watch - Michael Kors

Day to Night: Casual Friday

2013-04-26T20:29:00.000-04:00

Transitioning from the office to drinks out with friends or co-workers is easy when you stick to a neutral palette. (I'm a fan of the black and cream combo myself.) A simple shoe and bag change is all you need to reinvent your casual, work-appropriate attire to an outfit that is ready for a night on the town.

Blouse, blazer, jeans, tote bag and flats - H&M

Arrow necklace - Forever 21

Watch - Casio

Wristlet and booties - Target

My Mother's Day Wish List: 2013

2013-04-23T20:21:00.002-04:00

This year's wish list is kind of all over the place.

I've asked my husband for perfume & a diamond candle -- but I have specific requests. I've become a bit obsessed with Diamond Candles for the past few months and love the surprise of finding a ring inside every time (even though I know it's in there, I still act surprised). I have a few different scents already but I really want the "Carnival Candy" one next. I love the smell of cotton candy & I think it will compliment my fragrance choice nicely...

I've been teetering between both of the Taylor Swift Wonderstruck perfumes for a while now but after smelling the Nicki Minaj Pink Friday on a whim at ULTA one day, it's moved to the top of my list. It reminds me of what a stripper would smell like before she "took the stage" - fruity lip gloss, flowery deodorant and lots of vanilla body spray. Mmmmm.... slutty! (But in a good way.)

As for the other items on my list, they're more of a Lust than a Wish. I am dire need of a larger vehicle (my VW Beetle is just not family-friendly) and I think a Jeep Compass would be a fabulous replacement. The Nike Free leopard print sneakers are an urban legend. I've drooled over pictures of them online but only seen them for sale on eBay. If they do in fact exist, I would literally squeal like a schoolgirl if I got a pair.

The french toast with fresh strawberries just sounds delicious, so I figured hey, while I'm wishin', might as well add some good ol' breakfast in bed to the list!

What do you fabulous mamas want for Mother's Day this year??

Work Appropriate Halloween Costumes 2012

2012-10-28T01:48:00.000-04:00

It's been quite a while since I've blogged so I thought I'd make a few styleboards for you ladies who may be in need of some costume ideas this Halloween.

I recently started working as a medical secretary at a prison (it's much less scary than it sounds, I promise!) and while we're allowed to dress fairly casual most days, full-on costumes are not allowed. Being the festive, holiday loving girl I am however, I will be sneaking in some elements of costume while still staying within the confines of our dress code.

Here's what I came up with:

Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz

This was my first choice but I wasn't able to get all the pieces in time. The dress is from Old Navy, the shoes are Toms and the necklace is from Etsy. I was planning on styling my hair in curled pigtails like she does in the movie and wearing the bows on the ends. The gold glitter polish is of course a nod to the yellow brick road.

"Rosie the Riveter"

After watching last week's Parks and Recreation, I was inspired to dress as a modern day Rosie the Riveter a la Councilwoman Leslie Knope, but I think I'll save that one for next year when my arms are (hopefully) more flex-worthy than they are now...

Minnie Mouse

I finally settled on an updated version of everyone's favorite mouse, Minnie. I already had the top from Forever 21 and the ears from a trip to Disney World a few years back. I plan on clipping some yellow bows to a pair of black flats and picking up some white gloves and frilly socks to make it a bit more cartoonish.

What will you be going as this year??

LiLash Promo Code!

2012-06-30T17:06:00.002-04:00

10% Off + Free Shipping @ Lilash.com!

I've been neglecting my LiLash for far too long now & my eyelashes are paying the price... Time to re-up on one of my favorite beauty products & SAVE 10% (plus, free shipping as usual) by using promo code "PROMOTONALCOM" at checkout!

Reading my blog for the first time or don't know what LiLash is?? Click here to see my un-sponsored & honest reviews of this lash growth serum.

Summer Plans (For My Wallet) 2011 ed.

2011-06-21T08:57:00.000-04:00

I can't believe this is the third year I've done this post! Time flies! This summer I'm trying to cut back on the crazy spending, so my plans aren't quite as lofty as they usually are.

First, I want to get my hair colored (a la the Kim Kardashian pic above) and I am dire need of a MacBook. Second, I'd really love to take Nikki out for some Mommy/Son adventures, like the beach or aquarium. As for girly, material things, I'd like to get a new perfume (I have my nose on LIV GRN's Natural Eau De Parfum) and the Michael Kors Hamilton tote bag in Luggage with silver hardware. And last but not least, I plan on getting in some quality time with friends (preferably over delicious margaritas).

**What are your summer plans??

What To Wear: Summer Festival

2011-06-17T12:37:00.000-04:00

Heading to a music festival this summer? Here's my take on proper Day to Night attire:

Tank, Sass & Bide

Shorts, H&M

*Bag, All Saints

Headband, swell.com

Bracelets, Miss Selfridge

Sunglasses, Dolce and Gabbana

Rain Boots, Kamik

Sweatshirt, Wildfox Couture

Skinnies, Lee

*With a roomy enough bag you can bring along a change of clothes if it gets chilly at night. I suggest a baggy sweatshirt to throw over your tank and a pair of skinny jeans to tuck into your boots.

Have Ya Joined JewelMint Yet??

2011-06-13T04:08:00.003-04:00

I know I've already blogged about Kate Bosworth's jewelry club JewelMint, but I'm still loving it! I've been a member since March and have been 100% satisfied with my membership. For those of you who haven't joined yet and want to know what type of jewelry you can expect, here are three of my purchases:

Sweetheart Ring

This is the first piece of jewelry I ordered from the site. I think it's really unique. I love that it looks like two separate bands being held together by the heart and the little rhinestone details are so unexpected.

Versailles Earrings

I missed out on these gorgeous earrings the first time they were released, but thankfully the website brought them back last week due to popular demand. I have an all lace, cream, one-shoulder dress that was made to be paired with these earrings!

Metal Mosaic Ring

I'm a sucker for a good statement ring. This picture doesn't really do it justice, it's truly a wearable piece of modern art. I love the drama of the squares' varying heights and how it looks handmade.

P.S. - The boxes the jewelry come in are almost as pretty as the jewelry!

Click the link to sign up: http://jmnt.me/giiJ4X

**I looked around the web for a coupon code you all could use & I'm pretty sure "WELCOME50" should still work for 50% your first purchase.

Request: 2011 Prom Looks

2011-06-12T19:03:00.000-04:00

This post is for "thefirstgoldengirl" of Curious Leo. She requested a Prom themed What To Wear so I've styled a couple of looks for her:

Dress, H&M

Jewelry, Nordstrom

Clutch, endless.com

Heels, Nine West

Dress, pacificplex.com

Clutch, River Island

Ring, Dorothy Perkins

Earrings, Max & Chloe

Heels, dressrail.com

As always, if you have any styling requests, feel free to email me through the Contact Info tab on the top of the page.

What To Wear: Memorial Day BBQ

2011-05-29T23:06:00.000-04:00

As usual, I don't have any Memorial Day plans this year other than hangin' around the house with Jason & Nikki but if I happen to get a last minute invite to a backyard BBQ... I'd wear something along these lines:

Dress, Calypso St. Barth for Target
Earrings, Old Navy
Tote, Calypso St. Barth for Target
Espadrilles, Aldo

Total Cost: $140

This Year, Treat Mom To Lush Lashes - LiLash BOGOHO Coupon!

2011-05-03T14:16:00.002-04:00

I know it's been a while since I mentioned my Holy Grail lash stimulator, LiLash, but I've been waiting for them to release another coupon code.

In honor of Mother's Day this week, they're offering their customers a $70 savings! Just use the code "MOM11" upon checkout & receive 50% off your 2nd tube!

-------->CLICK HERE to score this AMAZING deal!<--------

*Valid thru 5/5, 11:59pm PST.

What To Pack: Packing Light

2011-04-20T15:43:00.001-04:00

Next Tuesday I'll be embarking on a 4 day, 3 night adventure to Atlanta & New Orleans to visit my BFF Kimberly & take a road trip to see one of my favorite bands Mumford & Sons! I'm only bringing a carry-on suitcase & my handbag, so I've gotta pack light.

Here's my game plan:

Jovovich-Hawk for Target floral dress
Jovovich-Hawk for Target polka dot dress
Tucker for Target floral dress
Rodarte for Target lace print tunic
Cognac boots from Target
Black boots from Torrid

I'll try to take some OOTD shots while I'm there so you guys can see my looks in action! In the meantime, any tips on packing light??

March ShoeDazzle How-To: Matilda

2011-03-24T14:52:00.001-04:00

I thought I would try something new on my blog by sharing how I plan on styling my monthly ShoeDazzle buys. I've seen this done on YouTube before & thought it was a cute idea. This month I ordered the Matilda motorcycle boot. I love the chain & buckle details!

Outfit #1:
I plan on pairing these boots with skinny jeans & a simple top for a summer concert.

Outfit #2:
I can also see myself wearing these with a feminine LBD on date night!

*Sign up for ShoeDazzle & SAVE 20% on your first purchase!

Saturday Night Special

2011-03-19T12:50:00.001-04:00

Guns N Roses Tank, Amplified Clothing

Skinny Jeans, JBrand

Suede Slingbacks, Jessica Simpson

Quilted Bag, Marc Jacobs
Geometric Earrings, House of Harlow 1960

What To Wear: St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-14T13:25:00.001-04:00

I have to work this St. Patrick's Day (I recently picked up a hostessing job at a local Italian restaurant), but if I could wear what I wanted, it'd be something like this:

Skull Top, E.VIL

Boyfriend Jeans, American Eagle

Strappy Wedges, Michael Antonio

Clover Earrings, Anya Jewels

Wooden Bangles, Forever21

Freshen Up Your Style With JewelMint

2011-03-08T11:43:00.002-05:00

Celeb-endorsed online shopping clubs are quickly becoming all the rage and while Kim Kardashian may have started it all with ShoeDazzle, Kate Bosworth is jumping on the bandwagon with her jewelry of the month society, JewelMint.

Started by Kate & her stylist Cher Coulter, the members-only site is filled with fun & funky earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets all priced at $29.99*. Here's a screen cap of my current showroom:

This is the third shopping club I've joined & I'm actually saving money! I've cut back my "in-person" shopping trips & limited myself to my beauty samples from Birchbox, a pair of shoes or a handbag from ShoeDazzle & a piece of jewelry from JewelMint. My total for the month is $80 -- I used to spend that in one store! Don't get me wrong, I still LOVE to go shopping, but I love getting pretty things in the mail every month even more!

*Join here & save 60% off one piece with the code "surveyfeb60"

Please Pause For A Brief Intermission...

2011-02-28T00:22:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to write a quick post to let all of my amazing, dedicated followers that I may be a little slow with the blogging for a bit. I fear that my trusty MacBook may have gone to Apple heaven!

I have found an adorable & affordable netbook however, so rest assured that the hiatus shouldn't last long.

Crossing my fingers for the best!

What To Wear: South By Southwest

2011-02-23T02:02:00.000-05:00

Sequin top, Edun

Studded jean shorts, Cosmic Denim

Floral boots, Dr. Martens

Wallet, Balenciaga

Cuff bracelet, Dorothy Perkins

Double finger ring, Low Luv by Erin Wasson

Love Samples? Join The Club!

2011-02-19T11:44:00.002-05:00

I read about birchbox.com in a magazine the other day and couldn't wait to get on the computer to check it out. A club that delivers beauty samples to it's members every month? Count me in! Their motto is "Discover what you love and buy with confidence," which has been a personal shopping mantra of mine ever since the Great Foundation Debacle of 2002. (I really wish someone had told me that MAC foundations break you out before I spent $40 on one!)

Not only do I love samples because of their adorable, purse-friendly size, I love them because you get to try before you buy! Clearly, the people at Birchbox feel the same way. For just $10/month, you get to test-drive 4 to 5 beauty samples and if you decide to buy the full size product(s) from their site, you earn points towards further purchases. No more hounding the clerk at Sephora for a trial size of something you're unsure about, just check your mailbox!

Here are just some of the brands they carry:

Bare Minerals

Korres

Kiehls

Nars

Benefit

Oscar Blandi

Stila

Too Faced

Phyto

For all the details on how the club works, watch the video below.

I'm Baaaaack!!!

2011-02-16T10:56:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

Sorry for leaving you all for a while; I've been busy getting in shape and preparing for my new career as a cosmetologist. Dental Assisting school just wasn't girly enough for me!

Don't worry, I'll be blogging regularly and starting up my YouTube channel again very soon. If anyone is interested in following me on my weight loss journey (30 lbs shed so far thanks to Dr. Atkins), I'm considering making a separate health/fitness blog.

Until next time, thank you all so much for sticking with Material Instinct & a huge "Hello" to all of my newest followers!

Love,
Valerie Valentine