A Work in Progress

Derby Days

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Fri, 06 May 2011 15:17:00 +0000

The Kentucky Derby signifies the first taste of Spring. We break out soft colors, pastel pants and seersucker suits while sipping on frosty Mint Juleps. Even in Chicago where the weather is bordering a cool 60 degrees with possible rain in the forecast, everyone is ready to emerge from the Winter hibernation. Scary as it may be to break out of the black uniform, opt for color or even white since you won't have to worry about the "wedding rule".

Milly Emalina Strapless Dress

Jockey Silks Scarf

Denness Tartan Sport Coat

Raffia Floppy Hat with Large Brim and Ribbon

Trina Turk 'St. Tropez' Dress

Hudson Plain-Front Seersucker Pants

Eric Javits "Celeb" Hat with Bow

Behati Capsleeve Dress

Off to the Races Canvas Club Belt

Prints Charming

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Mon, 02 May 2011 15:53:00 +0000

Recently I have been taking inventory of my closet and have found there to be a lot of black, boring, grey, beige, boring, solid and boring. I am a true believer that when you are wearing something you feel great in then your confidence is reflected through that. To freshen up your wardrobe, what could be more exciting than a Print to sweep you off your feet? It takes the guessing out of over-accessorizing and pairs perfectly with just about any pair of jeans, blazer and neutral! Your prints await you below:

Prints Charming

Two-Piece Swimwear by Vitamin A
Scarves & Wraps by Susan Daniels

Designer Spotlight: Rebecca Minkoff

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:51:00 +0000

Does anyone else struggle to find the perfect purse? The options are endless these days. You have the hobo, satchel, handbag, clutch, cross-body, bucket, etc. etc. etc. And all that doesn't include different designers, fabrics and colors! Overwhelming, right? Amidst all of these decisions I decided to bite the bullet with a Rebecca Minkoff bag and settled on a Black Mini Nikki Hobo. It's the perfect size and fits beautifully on my shoulder. The quality and detail is impeccable and even the interior of the bag has an adorable pattern so when you spill a drop of makeup on the inside it vanishes. Now that I have my basic black bag I am saving up for something a little more adventurous!

My New Boyfriend (Jean)

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:41:00 +0000

The Boyfriend Jean has been on my wish list for quite some time now and I finally decided to ditch my sleek, skinny, dark pair for the laid-back, distressed and slightly slouchy boyfriend look. Time and time again I have returned to try on pairs because they seem to work for the celebs and are perfect for a casual Saturday of errand running and that "I'm just hanging" kind of vibe I haven't debuted them yet but I think they will be perfect for my flight to Florida this Thursday with a fitted tee, braided belt and a scarf. I hope my mental outfit actually looks cute in person because it could go the other way and make me look like a disheveled vagrant. Some of my inspiration below:

Stella & Dot

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 16:49:00 +0000

Last night was the kick-off to my Stella & Dot venture/career. It is an amazing jewelry line that I happened to stumble across and I love everything about it! From everyday delicate necklaces and earrings to bold statement pieces, the line is affordable and unique. I decided to invest my free time into hosting trunk shows for them as a "Stylist" and I couldn't be happier that this opportunity came about. Part of the reasoning for starting this blog was my attempt at self-discovery and sharing little breakthroughs along the way. I got tinges of excitement and butterflies when I read about the company and it was the first time, in a long time, that I felt really sure about something business-wise. It's my creative outlet after sitting in front of a computer all day and an amazing way to spend time with friends while trying on gorgeous jewelry and making money. What more could a girl ask for?

Weekend in Key West

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:16:00 +0000

Hey Everyone! What an amazing weekend in Key West celebrating the marriage of Mike and Jackie! The sun was shining, family gathered from near and far and dancing into the wee hours ensued. We were able to participate a bit in the Island life where time doesn't exist and cocktail hour is any hour of the day. It was bliss! The best way to describe the weekend is through some of my photos below...you can almost feel the warmth of the sun through them!

Key West!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:48:00 +0000

I am off to Key West tomorrow for a wedding and cannot wait to see the sun shine, eat some Key Lime pie and smell the ocean breeze. Finally...a chance to wear some of my new summer dresses/sandals/jewelry and get rid of this winter bulk! Here's a taste of what you can expect:

Deals of the Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:18:00 +0000

I know I have been M.I.A. lately and my sincerest apology! I'll tell you a little more about what I have been dedicating my time to tomorrow but for now enjoy these two deals of the day at Ann Taylor LOFT (also at Ann Taylor) and Banana Republic:

Ann Taylor/LOFT

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Banana Republic

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Solo Shot = Humility

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 15:35:00 +0000

I hate taking pictures by myself. It's incredibly awkward when you have no one's waist to wrap your arm around and it's not like I'm going to frame a picture of myself in my apartment. In any case, my favorite blogs showcase their fashion of the day in these solo shoots and if I want to have my blog taken seriously then I'll need to get over my fear of how to pose and where to put my hands.

I wore this outfit to dinner with my parents the other night and the warmer weather allowed me to break out colors other than black and gray. Navy isn't as cumbersome as black, right? Baby steps, people.

Blazer from H&M

Top by Hanna G

J Brand Jeans

Vintage Gucci Purse

Booties from Zara

No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 14:18:00 +0000

Instead of baking a cake for my boyfriend's birthday I made him my easy version of Strawberry Shortcake. All you need is fresh strawberries, Lite Cool Whip and Dessert Shells. It's also a quick and easy dessert if you are having a dinner party!

Another Reason to Order Online

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:55:00 +0000

I don't mind grocery shopping. In fact, the days/nights where I can go and slowly push the cart down each aisle can be somewhat relaxing to me. The part of grocery shopping that I don't enjoy is when you have to stock up on Paper Towels, Detergent, Shampoo, Dishwasher Fluid, etc. How am I supposed to carry all of that in addition to my groceries?? That's why I am so excited to try Soap.com ...it's the one-stop shop for everything household and beauty. Expect your items to be delivered in 1-2 days and enjoy 20% off your first order with the code: CHICAGO. Get more savings with their "savingscenter" page!

Happy Birthday, Kevin!

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:46:00 +0000

Happy Birthday to my wonderful boyfriend! I love you!

Wedged In

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:00:00 +0000

On this sunny, beautiful Friday I can't stop thinking about my summer wardrobe. Espadrilles are making a comeback...I remember when I was little and my Mom bought me the flat pair from Talbot's. Now the higher the better and there are so many styles to choose from. The best part is they are comfortable!

Shrimp Scampi

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 15:36:00 +0000

Last night was a 'dinner in under 10 minutes' sort of night...well, most nights are. Anyways, I used some frozen shrimp which takes about an hour to thaw in a bowl of water and pasta to make Shrimp Scampi. My version uses alot of garlic, butter and salt/pepper. Definitely not the healthiest but in small portions it's ok! While the linguine was boiling I sauteed garlic in a pan with olive oil. After a few minutes I added the shrimp along with salt and pepper. When the pasta is al dente drain and add the pan of shrimp and garlic. Now, without thinking too much add desired about of butter (I use about 3 tbsp.). Mix and if you have some available, fresh Parmesan adds a nice kick of flavor. Mangia, mangia!

A Picture Says A Thousand Words

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:20:00 +0000

This past weekend I had a friend come by our apartment and she asked me what she should do with all of her framed pictures. Artwork makes a house beautiful but photos make it a home. Don't feel like you need to hide your memories! The best way to keep a theme throughout your house is to have a gallery of pictures either on a wall (preferably in a den or hallway), or a group of frames on a bookshelf. Play around with frames, accessories and black and white versus colored photos. Below are some examples.

A "Bi-Winning" Sort of Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:44:00 +0000

Charlie Sheen has gone off the deep end. I know this is old news but every time I watch his interview it disturbs me more and more. Just another reason to be thankful!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5aSa4tmVNM

Designer Spotlight: Erin Gordon

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 21:18:00 +0000

Designer Erin Gordon has recreated the friendship bracelet and turned them into the latest fashion craze. Think a dash of color and a dose of chic added to your wrists in every color palette imaginable. If you are in Chicago, she will be showcasing her jewelry at Sarca this Saturday, March 5 from 10AM-6PM. I already have a few of her Earth-toned pieces but I am looking to find something brighter for Spring.

My (Secret) Favorite Online Site

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 15:12:00 +0000

For those of you who love J. Crew you MUST check out Madewell. It's the rebellious sister store to the preppy-chic J. Crew and I am loving their floral summer dresses! Today only they are offering 20% off with the code: MWDRLBZD. I have my eyes on a few things that I may have to snatch up!

And the Oscar goes to...

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:08:00 +0000

The 83rd Academy Awards were on last night and I mainly watched it for the fashion...let's be honest, I don't really care who wins for visual effects and set design, although I was thrilled to see Christian Bale win for Best Supporting Actor and Natalie Portman for Best Actress. Both well-deserved.

We saw alot of red on the Red Carpet this year as well as nudes, lace, and less dramatic ballgowns compared to years past. For the most part I was impressed by everyone's' choice and as always there were the disappointments and the "what were they thinking" dresses.

Picks for Best Dressed

The color was stunning on her!

Does Gwyneth ever look bad?

One of the nude trends at its best

Always classy and a body to die for!

Picks for Worst Dressed

Tacky

I hated the neckline and the necklace

I mean...

It bothered me that she kept saying this was "built" for her

Quick and Easy Dinner!

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 20:40:00 +0000

The last thing you want to do after work or going to the gym after work is to come home and make dinner. Not only are you starving at this point, but the thought of not being able to sink into your couch right away is even more exhausting. I am a huge fan of dinners that take under 20 minutes to prepare. Last night my boyfriend and I made skirt steak with caramelized onions, asparagus and a salad with lots of fresh veggies and sliced avocado.

I rubbed the skirt steak with spices and broiled it for about 5 minutes on each side (this depends on the thickness of the steak). While that was cooking we sauteed the onions and blanched the asparagus. The salad was topped with chopped red and green peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and avocado. Once the asparagus was finished we tossed it in olive oil and added salt and pepper. Give this a try one night after work!

Target Go International Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 20:12:00 +0000

Target is not just the home of smart bargains and everyday low prices anymore. For the last 5 years, it has been the outpost for some of the biggest brand name designers including Thakoon, Tucker and Proenza Schouler to name a few. On March 13, get your fingers in ultimate clicking condition or visit your nearest store if you can because Target is reviving this line of 17 designers with a collection of 34 dresses. I have my eye on the frocks below!

Orange You Glad?

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 22:26:00 +0000

Hope everyone had a nice long weekend! I was in Florida spending some much needed time in the Sunshine State which gave me inspiration for this Spring. Orange is one of my favorite neutrals (yes, neutral); it is crisp and polished for work and playful for weekend wear. A refreshing spin on the neutral, it goes by the name of Tangerine, Citrus, Poppy, Coral and Persimmon. It brings a smile to my face just thinking about it.

Orange you Glad

Cocktail Dresses by Parker
Clutches by Inge Christopher

Chicagoans: Shop Tax Free at the 900 N. Michigan Shops

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:21:00 +0000

Once again The 900 Shops will be celebrating Presidents' Day weekend with a rare three day shopping event where shoppers can splurge "TAX FREE" on Saturday, Sunday and Presidents' Day Monday. Participating retailers will offer a 9.75% discount (equivalent to Cook County sales tax) to all shoppers, including sale items!

Shop "TAX-FREE" at over 40 of your favorite stores including J.Crew, MaxMara, Club Monaco, Michael Kors, L'Occitane, Diesel, Galt Toys + Galt Baby, Karen Millen, Original Penguin, Intimacy Bra Fit Stylists, space519 and MANY MORE. Click below for a complete list of participating retailers.

As a Presidents' Day bonus, you can park at a special "Alexander Hamilton" rate - only $10 for the entire day. Parking tickets must be validated with any purchase.

http://www.shop900.com/events/

Eye on the Prize

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 15:25:00 +0000

Makeup has never been my strong suit but it is something I wish I could master. Over the years I have learned a few tricks of the trade that amplify every woman's natural beauty. Many brunettes are lucky enough to have dark features that naturally emphasize their eyelashes and eyebrows...it must have skipped a generation in my case.

A few years ago I started getting my eyebrows plucked instead of waxed to keep them looking fuller and more precisely shaped to my face. In addition, I began dying my eyebrows AND my eyelashes to decrease the amount of time I spend on them in the morning. (It's an amazing trick for the summertime when you want to look more natural on the weekends or at the beach without having mascara on.)

My other best kept secret is an eyelash curler. If I don't curl my eyelashes they stick straight out and no amount of mascara can give them that Minnie Mouse flutter look. For 10 seconds I use my hairdryer to heat the eyelash curler and then hold it against my eyelashes for 10 more seconds. (Make sure it's not too hot!) I immediately apply mascara and in just 20 seconds I have long, emphasized peepers!

WARNING: If you have an eyeball issue then you may not want to scroll down.

25% Off at Banana Republic

noreply@blogger.com (Teeny) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:07:00 +0000

Banana Republic is offering 25% off your entire order today! Hurry up and get some new Spring outfits. Below are some of my personal faves.