TfDiaries By Megan Zietz

Sweatshirts and Shorts

2013-05-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

There's often days where I just want to throw on a sweatshirt and call it a day, and while I often do this at home I rarely find myself taking it out in public. However, this sweatshirt is a noted exception and since it's been just breezy enough I figured I could get away with pushing the sleeves up and throwing on a pair of knit flounce shorts for a casual outing. Obviously some jewels were need to spice things up but I felt laid back, and without fuss. Mission Accomplished.

Necklaces Sira & Mara and Charles Emerson Designs, Shorts MinkPink, Shoes Vince Camuto, Bag Calvin Klein via TJMaxx, Sweatshirt Chicnova

Sweet'N Low X TfDiaries "Show Off Your Sweet"

2013-05-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

When it comes to my personal style I often find myself on more of an edgier side of things, I love playing with bold colors, prints and textures. I often pair my pieces with items that wouldn’t necessarily go together but somehow work perfectly. Adding accessories is always a fun added bonus because I have a seemingly unconditional love for my

shoes, and pick favorites throughout the seasons.

My personal eccentric style goes beyond the clothes I wear; I’m always looking for new ways to incorporate my style into my decor and even my drink choices. For an eccentric and edgy drink, I go for a Cherry Lime Ricky from Sweet'N Low's sweet and stylish beverage menu. The perfect amount of tart with just enough sweet, it goes hand in hand with my personal style...

Don’t forget to check out Sweet'N Low's other amazing drink recipes like the Skinny Cosmo, and see which one best fits your style...

Feeling Sweet? Visit SweetStyleSweeps.com to enter to win a stylish shopping weekend for two in New York City to find the outfits and accessories that showcase your personal style…

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Sweet'N Low. All opinions are my own.

Garden Party Casual

2013-05-20T23:22:00.000-04:00

Since discovering London Times about a year ago, I've been a major fan of their flirty, feminine dresses, I often find myself adding little casual touches to toughen them up for day wear. I opted to take my little garden print dress to the utility side of things (see it worn here with their lace dress!). Adding a pop of color, studs and finished off with a braided headband for a no fuss feel...

dress c/o london times, vest old navy, belt calvin klein, bag bongo (kmart)

Make Your Own Flavored Coffee

2013-05-19T00:28:00.000-04:00

Ever since I was a little girl I always had a special taste for coffee, I begged and pleaded with my grandparents (and parents) for just a little cup, most times it was extremely diluted but topped beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It was wonderful, though it potentially stunted my growth to only 5'3 (pssh it was worth it!). And over the past several years I've practically had to give the goods up because of pregnancies and nursing, but now since I have two toddlers I try to stay well caffeinated whether from my chai lattes (recipe here!) or from simple coffees. While shopping I always find myself reaching for flavored coffees but often put them back because of the artificial and "natural' flavors, yuck. So when I was in NC last week with my grandparents I came across something so amazing that I just couldn't wait to get home and try it. My first day there I was heavily in need of coffee after driving for 10 hours with my mom, and my grandmother brought over a cup of coffee, it tasted like biscotti, it was heaven. I finally asked her about a few days later and she clued me in that she adds cinnamon to the (dry) grounds. Oh my god. Flavored COFFEE!

So a light went on, flavoring coffee with so many different flavors, it's as easy as sticking a vanilla bean in your coffee bag, or dashing some pumpkin pie spice. I opted for cinnamon because I adored the biscotti like flavor and I felt back at the cabin while drinking it.

Biscotti Flavored Coffee - Cinnamon Coffee

1 Heaping Cup of Ground Coffee

2-3 Tbsp. Ground Cinnamon

1 Mason Jar (Or Storage Container of Choice)

Combine ingredients and seal in air tight container, brew like usual, and enjoy!

Also, Homemade Flavored Coffees Make Amazing Gifts! Wrap One Up and Impress Your Coffee Drinking Pals...

Summer Beauty Closet Giveaway

2013-05-18T01:20:00.000-04:00

I feel so grateful these days to be around such amazing beauty products, and to have been able to add so many items to my beauty closet, most of which I have an excess of which is always a good thing when it comes to 'cleaning' out and doing giveawaya!(don't worry they're brand new, and never opened)... One Lucky Winner Will Receive This Batch of Summer Must Haves With a Few Extras, obviously I had to add a few extra goodies like a gift card or two and of course another pair of my favorite $3 sunnies, plus my absolute favorite beauty product ever, the beauty blender - you will love! From Hair To Skin, To Nails and a new pair of shoes (or bag!) I think you're going to be set for summer, am I right?

Here's What You'll Get...

Here's How To Enter...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck! Winner Will Be Emailed, Please Respond Within 72 Hrs. Or a New Winner Will Be Chosen. Items Will Be Shipped USPS Priority Following Confirmation.

This Weekend I Plan To Wear...

2013-05-17T00:46:00.003-04:00

A Tee With A Bold Skirt and Lip

Lots of Prints, Prints Are Soothing, Right?

A Utility Vest, Because It's Obvious Weekend Wear...

And A Head Scarf, Since It's Been Awhile..

What are you craving for weekend wear?

Clear Comfort

2013-05-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

Though I've already done bright colors this week, I just couldn't resist the comfort of this dress and these shoes for a simple day out. Obviously I need a carry all so my trusty bag came in major handy while my dress and (skin baring) shoes stole the show, how could they not?

dress target, bag tjmaxx, shoe c/o shop chameleon, necklace tjmaxx

Bright White

2013-05-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

While white is bright enough on it's own, it never hurts to get a little help from some of your bright favorites, new and old. I couldn't wait to bring these shorts back out from last year and they seem to be the perfect pairing with my yellow bag and boldly printed shoes...

shorts anika burke, shirt old navy, shoes target, bag tjmaxx, necklace vintage, blazer sheinside

Best Beauty Essentials Under $10

2013-05-14T00:12:00.000-04:00

For me beauty doesn't always have to cost a bundle, in some cases you can find higher quality products at your local drugstore or even supermarket (coconut oil!). And as it would turn out a lot of my most used essentials are under $10, lucky for me and my face! From Mascara to Cleansers, and Concealers this list comprised mostly of items I just can't live without has you covered, and for under 10! What's your favorite budget beauty find?

Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleanser, $7.99 Ulta

I've been using this for the last year and I swear by it and my skin refuses to like anything else, it's amazing and perfect for my sometimes troublesome skin.

TRESemme Fresh Start Dry Shampoo, $5.50 Drugstore.com

I first found out about this life saver during Fashion Week and now use it every

time I'm in between washes, especially on my easily oiled up bangs...

NYX HD Concealer Wand, $4.99 Ulta

Another Pre-Fashion Week Find, that brightens my eyes and helps high those nasty dark spots..

Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream, $6.44 Target

I think this is my favorite BB Cream so far, expensive and drug store wise, it actually makes my skin look better after washing it off, plus sunscreen is always a win.

Go Smile Touch Up 7 Ct., $10 Beauty.com

Simple Touch Ups On The Go, Yes Please.

Contents Pencil Case, $1.78 Target

How Cute is This and Under $2, Throw it in your purse and get one for a friend at that price!

O-P-I Expert Touch Lacquer Remover, $2.25

I swear I'm always looking for nail polish remover, this handy 1oz. bottle makes it a whole lot easier...

Physician's Formula Organic Wear Fake Out Mascara, $9.95 Drugstore.com

This is my new favorite mascara, I love the volume and find it comparable to my Cargo Mascara...

Ulta Super Blender Sponge, $4.95 Ulta

I first met a real beauty blender at Birchbox's Sample Stop back in September and since them have been obsessed, luckily this one is pretty close to both my beauty blenders at a 1/4 of the price.

Polka Dots and Draping

2013-05-13T00:00:00.000-04:00

Obviously I love layering outerwear, I'm all about a good blazer, fitted or draped, and I love playing with different silhouettes. This jacket is a perfect example of that, quickly becoming the newest addition to my spring wardrobe and I couldn't resist the moto and draped edge with the more playful material. And the fondness comes at no surprise, especially since Spiegel has kicked up their game with new creative genius, Richard Lowe, who's brought couture quality to the brand with everyday prices. I loved pairing it with my newly acquired printed palazzos for a more eye catching styling, both of which are amazingly comfortable, you're going to be seeing a lot more of these...

Don't forget to check out Spiegel's New Arrivals and get 10% Off Your Order With "Spiegel13"

jacket c/o spiegel, pants target, tank kohls, bag tjmaxx, necklace c/o amy o.

Fiesta Bean Salad

2013-05-12T00:00:00.000-04:00

During the Summer I am all about refreshing, protein rich salads with a whole lot of flavor. I'm always whipping up colorful pasta salads, with fresh veggies (like this one) and loads of beans, the more the better! So I decided to brand out and get a little festive with my selection, especially after trying something similar from from my favorite spot! It's going to be impossible to resist and is perfect for upcoming get togethers, and bbq's...

I'm warning you now, it will go fast, I barely got a picture of it!

Fiesta Bean Salad - Serves 8

1 Cup Black Beans (Canned or Fresh)

1 Cup Kidney Beans (Canned or Fresh)

1 Cup Yellow Corn, Cut into pieces.

1/3 Cup Diced Onion

1/2 Cup Diced Green Pepper

1 Tbsp. Minced Garlic (or 1 Tbsp. Garlic Powder)

Sprig Of Fresh Parsley

3 Tbsp. Olive Oil

3 Tbsp. White Vinegar

1 Tsp. Black Pepper

2 Tsp. Salt (or To Taste)

Combine all the ingredient in a bowl and toss until thoroughly coated. Refrigerate covered for at least one hour, the longer it marinates the better!

Serve chilled. Enjoy.

This Week....

2013-05-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

Since I literally just got home from my week long whirlwind, I wasn't able to upload every single one of the picture that I wanted to share but I was lucky enough to have a couple on hand that seemed fitting for this weekend, being that I celebrate my wedding anniversary and Mother's Day on the same day this year. Flowers, how fitting, right?

These Beauties literally lasted over two weeks! I'm officially obsessed...

And of course I went Peplum and Leopard with a Splash of gold while away, it was cozy with just enough flare...

Of Course With Mother's Day Being Tomorrow, My Mom gets an extra special shout out for being the most encouraging, and beautiful mom that my family and I could possibly have. She's also pretty patient after driving in traffic for 11hours with the cranky boys all day...

Happy Mother's Day.

Xo.

4 Fall 2013 Trends To Wear Now

2013-05-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

Up until four days ago I was completely on Spring and Summer time, but since heading up north on Monday I was quickly greeted with cold weather. 35˚ degrees when we arrived, cold weather. Obviously I was less than amused since I only packed summer dresses and shorts. So much for that spring weather my grandmother was bragging about leading up to our trip, typical.

However, the cold weather got me thinking about Fall and I couldn't resist getting the mind set, if only for a couple of days. Turns out there's quite a bit of trends we can style up now to be the front runners for Fall, and I narrowed it down to my top four...

1. Punk

Taking note from Sarah Jessica Parker and Anne Hathaway at Monday's Punk Inspired Met Gala, I'm all about emulating our inner punk princess. Chanel couldn't resist going dark for their Fall 2013 show, and went head to toe punk with leather, chains, and slouchy knits. By simply adding a little edge to your Spring wardrobe you'll be strutting ahead of the crowd, opt for studded bag and separates, layered chains, even whip up your own ankle bling a la Lanvin (tutorial here)

How I Styled It:

2. Neon

Obviously you know I'm a seriously neon mood, but what you might not know is that Mara Hoffman's Fall 2013 runway inspired me for Spring with her brightly hued maxis. Adding neon is no serious feat, just play with accessories and slowly bring in layers, you can even DIY some seriously fabulous Neon infused Ombre Pumps A La Jimmy Choo Pre-Fall 2013.

How I Styled It:

3. Slouchy Pants

Right along side neon, is another guilty obsession that I finally bit the bullet (thanks to StyleIt) and jumped on board with and that's Slouchy Pants. Surprisingly flattering on my petite frame, these babies have me searching the racks for prints and bold colors for Spring. I especially am loving how Isabel Marant styled hers on the Fall Runway in Paris...

How I Styled It:

4. Florals

Kaelen's entire collection could pretty much sum up this entire post with their grunge worthy styles and bold colors, but what I really loved when I was at the Fall Presentation was the gorgeous pastel infused florals, perfect for Spring and uber chic for Fall with a moto jacket thrown over. I'm loving cheery separates this season but I'm lusting after accessories, like these amazing shoes!

How I Styled It:

What Trend Are You Dying To Wear Now?

Blending In

2013-05-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

Since we headed out on our short adventure on Monday, I decided it needed to be a casual, and comfortable kind of day. And while I wanted to nothing more than to throw on some leggings, I sadly couldn't find a single pair, so my next best thing had to be my cozy maxi. Since we didn't jet off until later in the day, and I had errands to run, I piled on a few layers so I didn't look entirely like a hot mess. Almost playing with a festival feel, with the fringe, layering and hearts.

dress target, vest old navy, bag tjmaxx, belt and necklace vintage, sunnies nordstrom

Five Under $25

2013-05-08T18:13:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week you may have spotted my tweet/instagram raving for these Target high waisted palazzo's, I snatched up both pairs, of course. And as the week went on I spotted a few more finds that I couldn't resist, all under $25. All making the perfect addition your your Spring Wardrobe, whether you need a bold pop of color, spring staple or a cutely detailed top, these are right in line with your budget!

Xhilaration Junior Challis Palazzo Pants, $22.99 Target

Olsenboye Ruffle Hem Tank, $15 JcPenney

Soma Life + Style Espadrilles in Poppy, $17.99 Kohl's (Also in Black)

Material Girl Necklace, $18 Macy's

A-Line Striped Skirt, $12.80 Forever21

Colored Leather

2013-05-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

I've been a fan of colored leather since I stumbled upon this skirt in maxi form last year while perusing my grandparent's thrift store. I obviously quickly whipped it up, alas it was only $11 and cut it into a mini. Little did I know that colored leather was going to be right on target for this season, I was especially excited when I saw it first hand at Bebe's Spring 2013 Presentation in September, and immediately reminded myself that I had just the thing for Spring. Now, it fits perfectly with my florals and trusty white blazer...

top duro olowu for jcp, skirt thrifted, shoes vince camuto, bag and necklace tjmaxx

Highlighter

2013-05-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

d I just couldn't hide it any longer! When I first saw the dress on Bobbepin.com, I loved it but immediately wasn't sure how the bright neon green would look on my skin tone. Lucky for me, it's actually my new favorite, and I'm glad I picked it out, which was hard because I love Bobbepin's dress selection. Adding a pinch of neutral and a lot more color I ended up with this layered look, which was perfect because we had some nice days recently.

Love it?

jacket tjmaxx, shoes target, dress c/o bobbepin.com, necklace vintage

Ps...These Shoes, Everywhere I go I get comments on them. Well Done Prabal & Target.

Mother's Day Giveaway - Win One Of 10 $50 Gift Cards

2013-05-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

Later today I'll be lucky enough to be heading up to the mountains with my mom, and the boys to spend a little quality time with my wonderful grandparents for a few days, and while the time will be short I couldn't ask for a better Mother's Day Gift...

So, With Mother's Day around the corner, Coupons.com was kind enough to bring you this giveaway today for not just one lucky winner, but TEN! Five winners will receive a $50 Target e-gift card and the other 5 will receive a $50 Macy's e-gift card ($500 value)...just in time for Mother's Day! Make sure to check out Coupons.com for great Target and Macy's offers!

Chasing Davies // The Mrs. & the Momma // Sandy a la Mode // TfDiaries // Jessica... Who?

Casey Leigh // Chioma's Evolution of Style // Pop of Style // GBO Fashion // Pretty Polished Perfect

Camp Patton // The Other Side of Gray // Chic on the Cheap // The Serena Saga // Lemons, Avocados, and the Bay

much love, illy // Kacie's Kloset // Smart n Snazzy // Citrus Refreshing Fashion // Oh to Be a Muse

A Beautiful Ruckus // the daily dani // Crowley Party // Wild & Precious // the Freckled Fox

In the spirit of mother's day, make sure to leave your mom's best advice she ever gave you (about anything!) in the comments below!

You can enter this giveaway through Rafflecopter now through Sunday, May 12th on any of the participating blogs. Good luck and Happy Mother's Day to all your mamas.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spot The Steal: Celine Boston and Philip Lim 3.1 Pashli

2013-05-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

I feel like it's been forever since my last spot the steal post, and I think it's time to start bringing them back because I must say I've been seeing some great finds across the internets lately. Most recently at JustFab, and not just in the shoe department but in the handbags. With varying designer inspired styles, you can grab your first one at $20! My favorite steals were the Celine Boston & Philip Lim 3.1 Pashli inspired bags, but I'm sure you can spot some other designer styles.

What Do You Think?

Last year's must have spotted on Leighton Meester, has quickly become a classic, and how perfect is B&W for this season?

Celine Boston, $1450 (Sold Out)

JustFab.com Miller, $39.95, More Colors

Philip Lim 3.1 Pashli, $1070 ( Sold Out)

JustFab Midtown, $39.95

Denim and Floral

2013-05-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

Dressing up chambray is always fun, especially when prints are involved with a little bit of layering. The classic bag and shoes are a structured touch to an otherwise playful ensemble. It's the perfect way to kick off the weekend, am I right?

shirt h&m, bag tjmaxx, jacket target, shoes vince camuto, skirt diy, sunnies d&g

A Play On Prints

2013-05-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

Over the last few months I've taken the leap and have gotten into playing more with boldly printed pants, they've become almost a staple in my closet and I find myself searching the racks for them at every chance I get. Lucky for me I was challenged by to play with prints for my last T.J. Maxx post, which is no new feat though I'll never pass on the opportunity to browse for another pair of prints, and it was something I set my sights right on.

Almost immediately the first day of shopping I found these silky smooth, print pants from one of my favorite designers, and on clearance for under $30 (Org. $60). Win and Win. Obviously I couldn't just pair them with just any old solid, that would be a crime, so I snagged this sheer polka dot tank and layered it over a cropped top. Adding this designer clutch (marked all the way down from $100 to $30) for the perfect pop of color next to my simple black pumps and gold accessories. I think this just might be my favorite look of the four (you be the judge - see the others here, here, and here).

What do you think about printed pants?

Don't forget to submit your own T.J. Maxx Style Scout looks for a chance to win up to a $500 gift card. To be entered you must:

tag #maxxstyle and include the designer and price of their score;

share via Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (desktop only).

For more info, see official rules:

http://www1.tjmaxx.com/tjx/TJMaxx-MaxxStyleContest-OfficialRules.pdf

Our MaxxStyle Scouts are making the latest trends their own, and sharing tips for ways to express yourself through fashion. You never know what you'll find at TJ's - the possibilities to express your personal style are endless.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by T.J. Maxx via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of T.J. Maxx.

Cinco De Mayo Picks Under $25

2013-05-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

While gone are the days of my Cinco De Mayo Partying, I never give up on a chance to get festive, especially when it comes to clothes and accessories. Now as a girl about prints I couldn't resist going tribal for said festivities and shopped 12 styles under $25, most of which are sitting my shopping cart as we speak. Choices range from boldly printed maxis and pants to bandeaus and colorful accessories, especially the adorable sunnies! Now, my favorite has to be the black and white tribal dress, who's with me?

What are you wearing this Weekend?

More Forever 21...

3 Easy Spring Beauty Essentials for Spring

2013-04-30T00:00:00.000-04:00

When It comes to my Spring and Summer Beauty Rituals, I often feel like less is more, mainly because I'm in one of the most humid climates and I hate feeling like my makeup is melting off my face. While I don't do too much when seasons change I often find myself opting for putting my hair up, and milk maid braids (tutorial here) are always a fun and let me give my topknot a break. Ps - Braids are going to be big this season so start practicing!

As far as makeup, I'm all about adding a little color to my otherwise porcelain skin, and a little bronzer to contour and define my high cheek bones always make me feel done, with or without my staple cat lined eyes.

Now we know I love a bold lip but when it comes to Spring I'm often a fan of going brighter, to me the brighter the better, right? The easiest way to kick it off is to go fuchsia!

Don't forget to stay moisturized throughout these warmer months, and if you're in the mood to add a little color to your moisturizing routine, opt for Jergen's Natural Glow Face with SPF!

What's Your Favorite Way To Update Your Look for Spring? Share Your Beauty Regime for a Chance To Win $500!

Jergens makes it easier than ever to glow with the NEW Natural Glow Moisturizers that provides great color, year-round, without the sunless tanner odor.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Jergens. The opinions and text are all mine. Official Sweepstakes Rules

The Orange Hat

2013-04-29T11:30:00.000-04:00

Give me any reason to pair a floppy hat and a maxi and I'll take it, we all know it's no secret that I'm fond of the two of them, especially together. Lucky for me when I spotted the black version of this hat (which has been on my must have list) I spied that it was bogo so this one came right on home with me. Two hats for $16, you can't lose, and since it matches my dress perfectly I feel like it was meant to be...

dress tricia fix, hat love culture, bag vintage, shoes ziginy

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

2013-04-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

I love a hearty muffin, but at the same time I love to indulge in a donut every now and then, lately my weakness has been Whole Food's 'Vegan Donuts' but I've started to get smart and opt for making my own (here), this time I'm starting from scratch and treating myself to the best of both worlds. Muffins and Donuts as a whole, and oh my gosh, I had to stop myself from shoving more than I care to admit in my mouth - also, the kids are fans, big fans.

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

1/3 Cup Sugar

1/4 Vegetable Oil (Or Coconut Oil)

1/2 Tsp. Nutmeg

1/2 Cup Milk

1 Tsp. Baking Powder

1 Cup Flour

For The Topping

1/4 Cup Coconut Oil (Or Melted Butter)

1/4 Cup Sugar

1 Tsp. Cinnamon

Preheat Oven to 375˚

Combine (Baking) Sugar, Oil, Nutmeg in a bowl. Stir in Milk, Baking Powder and Flour until just combined.

Fill (Greased) Mini Muffin Tins until 1/2 Full, and Bake for 15 Minutes (or until golden brown).

Next, combine the reserved Sugar and Cinnamon in bowl for the topping and set aside with melted Coconut Oil.

Remove tins from oven and toss the muffins in the coconut oil, and then coat with cinnamon sugar mixture.

Enjoy.