Cocoa and Stella

W Hotels + CFDA Dallas Showcase

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Mon, 20 May 2013 22:26:00 +0000

Last week I was invited to the CFDA {Fashion Incubator} hosted by W Hotels. If you're wondering what all that means.... CFDA is the Council of Fashion Designers of America- a not-for-profit trade association whose membership consists of more than 400 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry and accessory designers. CFDA membership is by invitation only. And every year they have awards. It's like the Oscars of fashion. And the Fashion Incubator is a program designed to support up and coming fashion designers.

Everyone was dressed to impress in their finest designer duds. Surprisingly, I was wearing some of my great bargains.

Jacket: Lauren Conrad for Kohl's; Pleather Shorts: Bisou Bisou for JcPenney; Necklace: Sam Moon; Beaded clutch: Vintage (My mother's hand-me down); Shoes: Elizabeth & James (bought at the end of the season last year at Neiman Marcus). Unfortunately, these were all bought a while ago and I don't have links for them.

Once again, you don't have to spend a ton to wear the trends!

They showcased the following designers:

Ari Dean

Jonathon Simkhai

Reece Hudson

Timo Weiland

It was such a fun night!

Cheers!

My Skincare Regimen

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 02:44:00 +0000

My skincare regimen is pretty simple.

1. I've been using the classic Clinique 3-step face products since I was about 12. Thanks Mom! It works for me and it's inexpensive. It consists of liquid face wash, clarifying lotion, and moisturizing lotion. Why change it? I've tried other stuff... but I've always circled back!

2 & 3. Eye cream.... The Gin-Zing by Origins is a new addition to my routine but I really like it. I also use the Garnier roller ball and it's very inexpensive. I use the Gin-Zing first thing in the morning after I do the 3-step. It has caffeine in it and gets the blood flowing. I will then use the roller ball when I put on my make-up or later in the day if I'm going out. It just gives a little boost.

4. Scrub- Origins Modern Friction. Use it Monday, Wednesday, Friday after washing your face. It's gentle enough but does a nice job.

5. My FAVORITE! I finally got the Clarisonic Mia. Best investment ever. Your face will feel amazing and will thank you. Now there is a Mia and Mia 2. Mia is $119 and Mia 2 is $149. You do NOT need the Mia 2. Only difference is that the Mia 2 has 2 speeds. You don't need that. It's so easy to use. Put your face wash on the brush, turn it on and brush it all over your face (not your eyes) and after one minute, it turns off. Bam. Baby soft skin. Then replace the head every 6 months. I'm hooked.

What's your routine?

What's in My Make-up Bag: Part One

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:11:00 +0000

Girls love to know each other's beauty tricks and secrets. I know I love to hear about my friend's favorite products. I have found some of my favorite products that way. So I thought I would share mine! I like to mix it up. I'm not faithful to just one brand but I will say when I find something I like, I don't steer away.

Since there is so much to cover, I'll do it in parts. Today will be my all-time favorite things. As in, I won't leave the house without them.

1. Cleu De Peau Concealer This is the best on the market. I'm not just saying that, I've read it many times in magazines! I was introduced to this product about six years ago and I've never looked back. I am prone to dark circles and bags under the eyes. After I apply my eye cream (that'll come later) I put this on and "goodbye" bags! Now one thing, it is $70. BUT before you freak out, a little goes a long way and I'd say it lasts nearly a year. And when it stops rolling up I use a concealer brush to get the rest which is quite a bit.

2. Chanel Blush If there's one thing a girl needs, it is a little color on her cheeks (and lipstick). I love Chanel blush because it truly stays on most of the day. Many other blushes I've tried wash off after a few hours. I vary in the color I wear depending on the season.

3. Chanel Glossimer The one product I've worn the longest. Chanel Glossimer in Blizzard. I've worn it for nearly 10 years. It's my everyday color. It wears well and not like a gloss. But I must say, you have to wear it with lip liner. I wear a nude color and fill it in with the gloss. Now before you say, "Uh get out of your make-up rut." I wear many other colors but this is my go-to, everyday color. I could probably buy a Chanel bag for all the tubes of this I bought.

4. L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara *Bargain Alert* After many years of wearing expensive mascara, I was over it. This is the best stuff for my lashes. I've tried the fancier "drugstore" versions that claim to give you drag queen lashes. I always end up going back to this one. And for under $6.00 at Target, you can't beat it! Although, I still love Dior Show Iconic but you get the same look with the L'Oreal.

I'm BACK! And With Lots of Color.

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:20:00 +0000

Hello friends! I'm so sorry for the two month hiatus. I plan to get back to my love and passion: Cocoa and Stella! I have lots to cover but first thing... outfit of the day!

Dress: JcPenney (only 18!); Belt: Vintage; Earrings: Sam Moon; Sandals: Target

I love this color block dress. I got it at JcPenney. You know I love my bargains. And now it's even cheaper than I paid for it, $18! It runs big. I'm wearing a 4 (my usual size) and it's a little big on me. The earrings are a great Sam Moon find for $4 (that just so happened to match perfectly.) My bangles are a random mix of old and new. And the awesome belt was my mom's from the 80's.

The color on my nails is Essie: Shelter Island. I decided to jazz up a nail. I love a good party nail. I buy the nail colors with the skinny brushes for nail designs.... and I have a steady hand.

Last night I posted on Instagram about this stuff:

Everyone was asking about it so I decided to write my own review. I did my research on self tanners. I read blogs, Instagram posts, etc. This took the prize with the best reviews. So I decided to give it a try. I'm super pale and with the warm weather, wedding season, and skin showing... well, something needed to be done. I justified paying $25 for this at Ulta because I would pay that much for one spray tan at a tanning salon. There are two things I hate about self tanners: the smell and orangey streaks. And reviews claimed that both of these were didn't happen. Here's what comes in the box:

Tanning spray with pump, 2 latex gloves, and the mitt/applicator. So before I got started I watched a few YouTube videos with some ~~silly/ditzy~~ girls talking "spray tan." I combined there suggestions and got started. If you don't know anything about self tanner, always shower and exfoliate beforehand. One thing that might surprise you about myself is that I'm VERY impatient when it comes to beauty/makeup/hair. If it takes a long time, I'm out. Just one more reason to turn me off of this whole self tanning stuff. But this was super fast! I just sprayed on and rubbed in with the brown applicator/mitt. Except for the tops of my hands and feet, I sprayed on the applicator (brown side) and blotted it on. I also wore the blue latex gloves to avoid the orange hands.

The results:

It didn't smell. It didn't streak. The whole thing took 5 minutes. There wasn't a drastic difference but just enough (as in: no Snooki look). I will put another coat on before the weekend. I'm a fan. And I would definitely recommend it. Here's a "Before and After:"

So not a huge difference but it definitely gave me a good glow. Now go get your self-tan on...

Until next time.... And it won't be that long.

Pops of Pink

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 20:56:00 +0000

Jacket: Target; Blouse: Gap (old); Jeans: AG; Boots: Michael Kors (old); Bracelet: (a vacation find); Belt: from my work!; Earrings: Vintage; Watch: Michele

How fun is this preppy jacket? I love that it has the little bit of pink underneath the collar. Anything with an element of surprise, I'm a fan. I added a few pink accessories to tie it all together... even the belt has a little pop of color. Best part about the jacket.... It was $10. If you're like me, finding a bargain makes me like the piece even more.

With it being Valentines Day this week, I'll probably be wearing pink a lot. After being a life long fan, I still love pink.

National Wear Red Day

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 20:44:00 +0000

Jacket: LC for Kohl's; Top: Rebecca Taylor (old); Jeans: 7 for All Mankind; Belt: Old; Shoes: Vince Camuto (old)
Watch: Michele; Link Bracelet: J. Crew; Bangles: Random places!

Did you know today is National Wear Red Day?

I love mixing my prints. I've added a little leopard with the floral top. I also like the feminine look with a touch of casual, distressed jeans. With it being February, I even incorporated some Valentine's Day fun with my nails:

Happy Weekend!

A Little Bit of Everything

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 16:53:00 +0000

Top: Forever 21: Old; Pants: Target; Shoes: Urban Outfitters

Is it just me or does anybody else want to burn everything in their closet? Ok, maybe not the Chanel handbags or a few other things... I do this everytime when a season is coming to an end. I've worn everything and I'm just tired of it. It's time to get in there and get creative. I hadn't worn these pants in a few months, so I wore them with a different bootie. Nothing crazy exciting but it's better than the default knit shirt, jeans, and booties... which I've been guilty of lately. I'm ready for spring and some new outfits!

Here's a few other random pictures for your entertainment... Cocoa has quite the social life these days. Between the dog park and our friends with furry babies, she keeps herself busy.

I'm in the process of sprucing up my room (pictures soon!) You might recall this post for the DIY Chevron curtains. Here's a little preview of the colors I'm using:

Most people would look at my never ending list of DIY projects and say....

Last but not least... for a little Throwback Thursday- This is my cousin and me with our sweet Granddaddy. Clearly, I was a fashionista in the making- Posing for the camera and ALWAYS had a bow in my hair.

Have a fab day!

Transitioning to Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 19:01:00 +0000

Sweater: Kohl's (old); Pants: Lauren Conrad for Kohl's (old); Shoes: Vince Camuto (old); Bangles: Random

I've gotten to the point where I'm over winter clothes. With our crazy yo-yo weather, it will drive anyone crazy. One day it's freezing, the next day it's convertible weather. Today is one of those warm days. I paired a light sweater with a floral print pant. Easy enough! Bring on the brights colors, shorts, and fun sandals!

Just Another Day at the Office

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:12:00 +0000

Shirt: Uniqlo; Cardigan: Club Monaco (old); Jeans: James Jeans; Booties: Urban Outfitters (and on MAJOR sale!)

Today one of my photographers (or co-worker friend) wanted to get creative. (Thanks Kelly!) I purchased this shirt when I was in NYC at my fave, Uniqlo. It was part of their Designer Invitation Project. I just liked that the shirt looked a little western/animal print. Pair it with some red booties and red lipstick (my lipstick may or may not match my shoes) and easy breezy, ready to go!

And always remember....

Getting the Baroque Look Without Going Broke

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:41:00 +0000

Sorry for cheesy title. I couldn't help it.

Faux Fur Vest: JcPenney (and it's on clearance!); Pants: Target (clearance); Bracelet: J. Crew; Necklace: Forever 21 (old)

You're seeing the Baroque (think late 80's Versace) look a lot this fall/winter season... Black, gold, oversized chain prints, etc. I found these ~~hideous~~ fun pants at Target and thought it would look great with the (faux-wish-it-was-real) fur vest. I'm usually not a fan of faux because it can come across looking a little cheap but this was a really good faux find! (Such a thing?) I stumbled across it at JcPenney while doing some work shopping. (You can get it now for just $30!)

Cheers!

Feeling Colorful for Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 19:59:00 +0000

What. A. Week. First (full) week back at work and super busy at that. I've challenged myself lately to ~~stop~~ cutback on wearing jeans to work. I have so many great dresses and skirts that I rarely wear because of our casual environment. You might have seen this skirt here. I've added tights and a simple cardigan. I love all the colors in this skirt.

Cardigan: Target (old); Skirt: H&M; Booties: Lucky Brand; Necklace: J. Crew

Yay Bracelet: Alex and Ani; Bracelet: J. Crew; Colorful Bracelet: Not sure (Christmas gift); Heart Mug: West Elm

I finally spluged on the J. Crew pave link bracelet (a staple for every fashion blogger). Well actually it didn't cost me much- with a 30% discount and a nice gift card. But I love the silly thing.

Prabal Gurung for Target

I'm loving the sneak peek from Prabal Gurung for Target (see video below). I hope this is a much bigger success than the Neiman Marcus and Target collaboration. I think it wasn't as successful as they hoped because the price point was very high. It was very expensive for items that didn't "read" designer. When Target collaborated with Missoni, it was HUGE. But the print was Missoni, it was recognizable... it "read" Missoni. People know that chevron signature print from a mile away. My only concern with the Prabal Gurung line is that he is not a very well known designer but hopefully (from the sneak peak of the video) his colorful prints will win over the Target customer.

View more of the collection here.

Have a FABULOUS weekend!

Spicing up the Sweater Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:19:00 +0000

Sweater Dress: Barneys New York Private Label; Scarf: Madewell (sale); Boots: Michael Kors (old); Purse: Elliott Lucca (sample sale); Bangles: random and old; Tights: DKNY; Necklaces: random and old; Watch: Michele

We all have one, your basic sweater dress. In fact, I've had this one for 6 years. I bought this on super discount when I worked at Barneys New York. It's cashmere and I've taken great care of it (hand wash, not dry clean and store with cedar chips in the summer). I find myself wearing this often in the winter because it's a no-brainer, especially when I'm in a rush to get to church on Sunday. I paired it with colored tights, contrasting boots (I love brown and black together), chunky bangles, long necklaces, and topping it off with a fun scarf. It looks pulled together and it was so easy!

Once again, with the right accessories you can jazz up any outfit. Minus the Madewell scarf (bought on clearance for $15, regularly $60), I've had this stuff for a while, many flea market finds or hand me downs from my Mama. Think outside the box or steal my look! Make getting dressed in the morning fun!

It's almost Friday, cheers!

Mixed Neutral Monday

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 19:27:00 +0000

Shirt: Target (clearance rack); Pants: Uniqlo; Booties: Steven (old)

Outfit of the day... I love mixing prints. If you stay in the same color palette, it's easy to do. Here I have a mixed media shirt from Target (bought off the clearance rack for $9.99) and the infamous "Perfect Pant" from Uniqlo. Paired with gray suede booties. Done.

Cocoa hasn't made an appearance in a while... this is her casual weekend wear. We love a lazy Sunday!

Holiday 2012 Wrap-up!

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 01:08:00 +0000

I'm back! Sorry for the few and scattered posts as of late but work has been cray-zay. Now that the Holidays are over.... I can get back to my favorite hobby: Cocoa & Stella!

The Holidays were here and gone in a blink of an eye. I always suffer the "Post-Holiday Blues." The month of December was wonderful. It was filled with a trip to NYC, friends, family, and many great memories. These are just a few of my favorite moments in December, too many to really capture...

But now we have a fresh new start! Ah, the NEW year, so much pressure to get on those resolutions. I have your normal- get back in the gym, eat like a rabbit, cut spending, cut ~~out~~ back on the alcohol. I have a feeling that 2013 is going to be my most successful year yet. Oh, and of course my most fashionable! Stay tuned for many new outfit posts, DIY, and any other fun, random thing I come up with!

Below was my NYE outfit. I didn't do the fun tights, it ended up looking disastrous. So I stuck to a basic black tight. I built my outfit around some beautiful earrings I got as a Christmas gift. The dress was $19 from Forever 21. It was a black knit with subtle silver sparkle. I added the infamous J.Crew venus flytrap necklace and I was rather pleased with the outcome. UNFORTUNATELY, I didn't get a clear picture. But you can kinda get the idea below.

P.S.- I tried a new hair style that night and I'm kind of digging it...

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:12:00 +0000

New Year's Eve, one of my favorite nights. Mainly because it is THE perfect excuse to dress up and wear something sparkly. But I love all the hype. Some might say it's the most overrated holiday and those people don't know how to have fun. Taken, single, or in limbo, it can always be a fun night! I haven't had a bad one yet and I can't wait for this year!

For the outfit, try to think outside the box. Maybe don't go for the traditional sparkly dress. What about a fun short? (Sparkly, of course. Or leather?) Or a plain dress with great tights, like these, paired with a festive earring. I'm wearing a simple black dress but jazzing it up with tights, jewelry, and amazing shoes. I can always find an excuse to buy a new dress. I found one for $20... My tights were actually more than my dress! Or even throw a fun fur vest over a basic dress. Have fun with it! Here are some suggestions:

H&M cutout dress/ BCBG Max Azria / J.Crew sequin blouse / Madewell / Mango sequin jacket / LOFT ankle pants / Sequin shorts / DKNY / Alexis Bittar / Forever 21 antique jewelry / Kendra Scott teardrop earrings / Capulet Leather Short | Piperlime

This has been such an amazing year and I can't wait to see what 2013 has to offer!
Happy New Year!

Cheers!

Boho Chic

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 18:00:00 +0000

The weather is finally feeling winterish again. I thought it was appropriate to bring out one of my favorite things from an end of season purchase last year. I call it my blanket (ha). But some might call it a wrap or a poncho. Whatever you want to call it, I love it. I feel so "boho" in it.

Blanket/wrap/poncho: Dillards (old); Jeans: 7 for All Mankind ; Shirt: Gap (old); Bangles: Random

This brings up a great point of shopping at the end of season. Believe it or not, the "winter" season is coming to a close in fashion. I know we still have a few months of cold weather but after Christmas everything will go on sale and you're going to see the swimsuits. For frustrated Texans, like myself, it can make you mad because you're thinking, "I haven't even worn my winter coat yet and they have swimsuits in the store?!" I got this blanket/poncho thing for about $15 regularly $60. So keep an eye out for those "After Christmas" sales.

P.S.- The BEST time to buy tall boots is after the first of the year. Never pay full price.

Hello Brooklyn, How ya Doin?

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 03:49:00 +0000

First NYC post takes place in Brooklyn (like my Jay-Z lyric for my title?) and it's a blogger's dream for backdrops.

Sweater: Gap (old but similar here); scarf and hat: H&M (old); Pants: Uniqlo; Boots: Madewell

I'm obsessed with these pants from Uniqlo. They are a cross between a legging and jean. Oh a jegging? Not exactly. These are a nice stretch twill with an elastic drawstring waistband, all while being tight and not loosing their shape. No wonder they call them the "Perfect Pant." I ~~might have~~ bought a few colors in these. And they are only $19.90! Have I sold you yet? You can now order online.

I love Uniqlo. It's nothing crazy special, it's a Japanese cross between a Gap and H&M. They have great basics with some special pieces mixed in. And their prices are great. I also find the quality to be pretty good. The store is extremely organized and their flagship store on 5th Avenue is amazing. Currently they only have stores in NYC and LA. But they recently opened an online store. (I swear this post is not sponsored by them, I just really like the store.)

Jingle Bell Frock

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 20:17:00 +0000

I can't wait to share some great pics and adventures from my NYC trip this weekend, but there's a lot going on with work and the busy festive season! I do want to share this fun event that is taking place tomorrow night at the Neiman Marcus Last Call Studio in Inwood Village.

In order to attend, RSVP here:

http://www.gotidbits.com/dallas/dallas-tidbits-holiday-party-last-call-studio

The first 50 guests will get a swag bag with goodies. And we all know you're still running around looking for a great outfit for some sort of Holiday party. Last Call Studio is the perfect place to find fashion's top designers at great prices. Even better? The first 100 guests will get a coupon for $20 promo cards. (We all know how I love my extra discounts.)

See ya there!

Getting Back into the New York Groove...

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 18:14:00 +0000

Today I'm heading back to my old stompin' grounds: New York City! I'm super excited to see friends, shop, eat, and (finally) get in the Christmas spirit! Packing for NYC is always stressful, especially in the winter time. Winter clothes are bulky and I tend to over pack. So this time I stuck to a black palette (so NY) and a few pops of color. And black is great for traveling because it's versatile and goes with just about everything. It should pretty chilly this weekend and I can't wait!
I'm also going in the midst of Sample Sale craziness. I'll be missing the DVF sample sale by ONE day!. Let's just not even go there....

Vest: Kohls (sold out online); Shirt: H&M; Jeans: James Jeans; Booties: Lucky Brand; Necklace: Forever 21

On another note, Pantone announced the 2013 Color of the Year: EMERALD GREEN. You can read about it here. So don't be surprised to see shades of Emerald all over the place this upcoming year.

Have a great weekend! And I'll be sure to have a fun NYC post for y'all when I get back!

Gifts for Her- Under $200

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 22:04:00 +0000

Rebecca Minkoff mini shoulder bag / Coach cross body handbag / Green Jeweled Necklace / J.Crew bangle bracelet / Nixon Watch / Lauren Ralph Lauren fingerless glove / MICHAEL Michael Kors Sunglasses /Missoni Head Wraps / Kate Spade New York 'gramercy Grand' Bracelet Watch / Tocca beauty product /Deborah Lippmann Nailpolish / Capri Blue Jar Candle, Turquoise / Vogue Cover Book

Whether it be for a friend, GF, or any girl near and dear to your heart- buying gifts for ladies can stress a guy out! Here are some fun suggestions. After a few guys inquiring about gifts for their lady friend, I thought I'd put some fun things together. Now if it's someone really special, when in doubt, something sparkly, in a nice box, with the 4 c's... Diamonds. You can never really go wrong.

Gentleman, a few things to maybe not do this Holiday season:

-Wait till Christmas Eve. After working many Holiday seasons, I witnessed many men scrambling around trying to find sizes, colors, and other specifics. Well guess what? They are out of it and now you have to settle on something.

-Buying anything that plugs into the wall. Meaning anything from the electronic family. I know you'd really like that 100" LED TV for the media room but don't put a big red bow on it and give it to your wife. Unless of course, you were directly told of a specific item, I would steer clear. They just aren't very personal. So if you're mindlessly walking around the mall on Christmas Eve, whatever you do, don't walk into the Apple store.

-And when in doubt, ask her friend or anyone else that knows her well. There's nothing wrong with that!

Happy Shopping!

The Helmut Lang skirt's (cheaper) Twin Sister

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Fri, 30 Nov 2012 21:11:00 +0000

About a month ago I posted a picture wearing a Helmut Lang asymmetrical skirt and a ton of people asked about it. Well, they don't sell it anymore. I got it on deep discount. But guess what? There is a copy version! As in identical. Thank you Urban Outfitters! It's only $50 and comes in all the same colors that Helmut Lang did. I will be buying one of these. Check it out:

Skirt: Urban Outfitters

Don't forget tomorrow...

I wore my Missoni for Target dress today in honor of the big launch tomorrow. They are anticipating this to be their biggest collaboration launch yet! So get there early people! I have my eyes on the Oscar de la Renta dog accessories. (duh.)

What is on your list?

Have a great weekend!

Getting in the Festive Spirit

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 18:43:00 +0000

Jacket: Kohl's; Shirt: Gap; Belt: Rolf's; Necklace: J. Crew Outlet (same here); Jeans: AG (old); Booties: Piperlime (old, similar here)

The Starbucks' Holiday cups have been out for a few weeks (thanks for all the Instagram uploads) and the retail stores are in full swing- It must be time to get in the festive mood! I put up my Christmas tree, started buying some gifts, and even going to my first "Holiday" shin-dig tonight... maybe I should start dressing more festive! No, not silly Christmas sweaters. I like the more traditional, "Ralph Lauren," Tartan plaid look- hence my outfit.

I'm semi-obsessed with my ~~faux~~ eco-friendly green jacket. I love the peplum detail. I scored this on Black Friday (one of two things I bought that day) for about $25, after discounts and coupons. This looks identical to some jackets I've been eyeing that are in the $300 range. Yes, it's not leather but it's a good enough pleather.

What is your favorite Holiday look?

Skull-tastic

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 18:53:00 +0000

Sweater: Kohl's; Jeans: James Jeans; Booties: Lucky Brand (similar here)

I know, skulls were so five years ago. When everyone was wearing THE Alexander McQueen

scarf. I still like to rock them occasionally. And for less than $20, this sweater was a no brainer. Pink with black studs. Done.

Catch ya later! XO

D.I.Y. Chevron Print Curtains

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 02:42:00 +0000

I finally got around to finishing my never ending curtain project. It all started with these boring curtains, as seen below. Cocoa tries to help out as much as she can...

My original plan was to dip dye them with an ombre effect, tape them off with a chevron pattern, and lastly spray paint. Wrong... keep reading.

I tied them up to divide the sections for the ombre effect. I had looked up online on how to do this. Confession: I'm very impatient with my D.I.Y projects and sometimes it works out and other times it doesn't. I thought the sink would be good enough place to dye the panels. Wrong, again. This is a very thick canvas fabric (meaning, it doesn't want to absorb a lot of color) and with little space in my tiny sink it makes it even harder for the fabric to get fully saturated.

I started with the first section and let it absorb for about an hour, then I would put the next section in.... At the end, the entire curtain was submerged in the dye. I just went off the directions on the amount of time to let it sit in the dye.

Did I mention to wear gloves? I had smurf hands for a few days....

After all the panels were done, I ran them through a rinse cycle. No detergent because I didn't want to risk the color fading. (Side note: to ensure that the dye is completely gone from your washer, run another rinse cycle before actually washing anything. You don't want to ruin anything!)

As you can see below, it did not come out ombre. It turned out more tie dyed than anything. But I wasn't too worried since I still had the chevron step to go.

After ironing the panels, I started measuring and taping off. I really thought I could just tape it off and it would be super easy. Wrong, again. This one, ~~uneven~~, row took an hour. "Ain't nobody got time for that." (If you haven't seen that YouTube video, I suggest you do.) So the taping and spray painting was out of the question... Moving onto the next.

I bought this handy stencil from Royal Design Studio. Took a trip to Michael's (again) for some gold paint, Martha Stewart Stencil Roller, and paint sponges.

Row by row, section by section... it was coming together. The hardest part was getting the print to line up and the paint not to bleed.

Cocoa loves to help... again. Stella is planted in the corner. You can tell who is the boss out of the two.

After 5 hours and an aching back... I was done! I'm overall very pleased with the way they turned out, even with a few imperfections. Will I ever do this again? ABSOLUTELY not. These curtains will be making it's way into many future rooms. They took way too long to not last several years.

The used supplies. Sorry, I forgot to get a shot of the before.

Ta-Da!

What project shall I come up with next? Stay tuned...

An Element of Surprise

noreply@blogger.com (Cocoa and Stella) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 17:40:00 +0000

I was once told, you should look just as good leaving a room as you do when you enter a room. That's one thing I liked about this shirt- a little element of surprise! Well that, and the mixture of animal and baroque print.

Breakdown of the outfit:
Shirt: JcPenney; Nicole by Nicole Miller. It is not available online but I purchased it this last weekend for $25. And that is the regular price. I'm kind of loving their new strategy. They have everyday low prices and their clothes have been looking great!

Jeans: James Jeans

Shoes: Vince Camuto (last year, similar here)

Necklace: J. Crew. This is the infamous Crystal Venus Flytrap Necklace. I've loved this necklace for a while and just about every girl owns it. I just have a hard time paying a pretty penny for costume jewelry. And $85 is a bit much in my opinion. This past weekend I ventured out to the Allen Outlet and at the J. Crew Factory store, I found the EXACT necklace for a fraction of the price. It was marked $54.50 with 40% off. The grand total was $32.70. That is 62% cheaper than the one from the store! There's nothing like a good bargain to start the weekend off right!

Here's to a short week! Cheers!