something nice

mad about drybar

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Thu, 08 May 2014 22:36:00 +0000

We're a sucker for great marketing. It's like we want to reward the company for being so smart or something. It draws us in, which subsequently leads us to have such high hopes so often crushed once we actually try the product.

This time, however, we're happy to report that this drybar phenom lives up to that promise and more.

Enter our new favorite line of hair products... that so far, really work.

Crafted specifically to ~~make it so you don't have actually have to wash your hair~~ maintain the perfect blowout, we thought we'd give 'em a try. Slinging both "Detox" and "The Chaser" for the past couple of weeks, we can safely say they've earned their spot as/in our new favorite hair watering hole.... wait. Did that even make sense? I don't know. Just trust us. They're awesome.

And, with notes like "how to serve" - these babies do what they say and say what they do.

Bottoms up ladies!

birks are back

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Sat, 19 Apr 2014 18:18:00 +0000

Making their pronounced appearance sometime last summer, we're just now finally giving in ( as we have with overall's) to our once perhaps unhealthy obsession with them in the 90s. No longer cue-ing "crunchy granola," birks are making their way onto the fashion forward stage. Don't worry, "it's a thing" now.

So what do you think? We're on the hunt for some patent white one's ourselves.

what's up with the eyebrow?

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 03:08:00 +0000

Can we all just admit that eyebrows are sort of weird? Not event sort of weird, ok? They're like, really weird.

They're this little patch of hair over your eye that probably had some neanderthal type function - critically life saving once-upon-a-time, no longer applicable in modern day.

Yet somehow, now, all of sudden, it feels really important to pay attention to them. As in, "wow, you have really good eyebrows."

And, there's tools. Did you know about all the tools? I mean, not just one or two tools. Sections, products, lines, videos, instructions, steps.... why don't we know about this?

What is a really good eyebrow, anyway?

Whatever they are, I'm not sure that we have them. Actually, no. Let's just come right out and say it. We don't. And, in a desperate attempt to figure them out, we purchased said tools.

Not that we knew what do do with them.

Erroneous faith led us into this futile endeavor of spending all kinds of money on tools that would magically come to life in our bathroom in front of the mirror.

Eyebrow tools people. Do you know how to use them? Does anyone? Help.

No. Wait. This isn't for us. Whatever this is.

Sorry, we're not sorry that our eyebrows are, well, just weird. Congrats on your "good" ones.

spring? trends? dressing for success?

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Sun, 06 Apr 2014 22:34:00 +0000

We had so much fun with our attempt to dish on the above last Wednesday on Channel 3, here in good 'ole wisco, and thought we'd share a little bit more about some of the items.

As in, where they're from and how you can snag 'em.

Lets start with the mens pieces, shall we?

Left to right: Black leather DEAN bag, IRISTOCRACY.COM. Beloit Thorogood Work Boots, CONTEXT. Filson leather/canvas satchel, CONTEXT. Horn/Acetate Linda Farrow Frames, IRISTOCRACY.com. Shinola Watch, CONTEXT.

Navy blue Tommy Hilfiger Jacket and white dot shirt, both Boston Store.

Filson cruiser tin cloth jacket, CONTEXT.

Now, on to the ladies!

The Accessories!

Left to Right: Pale blue tote, H&M. Ralph Lauren blush pumps, Boston Store. Floral clutch, Francesca's Collection. Metal cuff, ReThreads Madison West. Matthew Williamson Melon Acetate frames, IRISTOCRACY.com. Serfina Horn Necklace, IRISTOCRACY.com. Lucite beaded bubble necklace, ReThreads Madison West.

White blazer Rag & Bone Blazer, DVF Dress and Karen Walker Handbag, all courtesy of Twigs.

Last but not least ....

This poppy colored dress is from Terese Zache Designs, and the fabulous, ever versatile, ALC Trench is courtesy of Iona.

Happy spring shopping!!!

Mexico sunny & 75

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Sun, 23 Mar 2014 19:40:00 +0000

Wanted to share a little mexican sunshine for those of you who may be still stuck in what feels like "unseasonably" chilly temps in the Midwest.

C'mon spring! You can do it! We are ready, open - toed shoes and all!

You won't find us complaining, however, if we skip straight into summer....

Our new favorite shopping app

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Tue, 11 Mar 2014 03:31:00 +0000

For most people, shopping is planned activity. As in, "I'm going shopping.." And yet, that's not quite how it is for us.

It's not something we 'go' do - it just is. We're actually shopping all. the. time.

Yeah, sort of weird, right?

Every time we step out into the world, and something catches our eye, our curiosity is piqued. The gears start turning, and we're just dying to know where to snag something similar. Sometimes we inquire, but often times, we stay away from seemingly overly creepy and secretly vow to add it to our mental 'list.'

Well, mental list no more.... at least sort of.

Enter ASAP54, a new app that will match photo's to real items of clothing and accessories and shoes and.... other goodies. We love this idea that everything you see you should be able to find. Why didn't we think of it...

Simply take a picture of the item(s) that you found, and the app scans an extensive database, comparing fabrics and designs, and ultimately matching the photo submitted with similar items and links to where you can buy them. And, if you don't like the results, or it's not found within the database, the app will connect you with a live stylist that will continue the search and email you results.

Hello awesomeness.

You can even select a price range - and follow fellow fashion aficionados. Kate Middleton, anyone?

The database hosts over 700,000 pieces but is expected to reach about 3 million by September. ASAP 54 is free to download in the Apple Store here.

So good. Although it doesn't quite help with the creep factor. We'll still need to figure out how to snag that picture ( even more creepy)... but that's what Pinterest is for, right? We think this will be the perfect, but dangerous marriage.

spring 2014 prom trends

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 04:28:00 +0000

We're so excited to be a part of All Dressed Up - a fabulous event put on by Madison's Junior League. The goal of the event is to help girls get glam on a budget who may not otherwise be able to go, since we all know how much dresses ( and all that goes along with them) costs these days.

We'll be dishing on trends and helping these fabulous young women put together some amazing prom night looks this Saturday.

Taking cue from the red carpet events of late, here's a little overview of what we'll be chatting about!

Can't wait!

Sun Soaked Getaway

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Tue, 18 Feb 2014 03:56:00 +0000

We're the last person that should tell you how to pack for vacation.

We can advise you on what would be stylish in a specific locale, what to wear for dinner, what to bring for the beach, etc. But, when it comes to fitting it all into some svelt looking piece of roller luggage, we're at a loss.

Somehow we always over pack. Especially for those trips where all we ever wear is our bathing suit, mostly because we HATE being hot. The night before we've assumed the position. Agonizing over what we can take out, while huffing and puffing, straddling aforementioned roller luggage... just ... zip...ugh!

We did a bit better this time as we headed off to sunny Mexico, but our luggage is still bursting at the seams.

So what essentials did we take? The hat (Target), dress ( Rory Becca from BOP - shopbop's brick and mortar store) and sandals ( Madewell). Plus a few more dresses and the bathing suit (duh).

And, since our tresses and skin suffer from being a wee bit too dry, a few goodies to help keep hydrated and fight the frizzies.

Aveda Dry Remedy/Kendi Bamboo Oil/Caudale Eau de Beaute/

Bliss Face Wash/Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray

While we may have struggled, having a few choices for dinner never hurt a gal. And, if we only ever really wear our bathing suit that's ok... because with this view, well.... that's all it really requires.

Big Coats

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Tue, 11 Feb 2014 02:46:00 +0000

Big coats are happening people. And by coats, we mean everything from the traditional ( as in,what one would picture as outwear) to sweater-like-robe concoctions. We don't mean the functionally warm, but outwardly implying "caterpillar puffer," of which we've been donning all too often here in the Midwest.

We mean REAL, fabulous coats.

But, I digress.

Spotted everywhere during the last few days of NYFW14; from "street style" ( those girls who look effortlessly cool with big coats draped around their shoulders, as if they are actually walking somewhere and not posing for the cameras. If we could be as cool as them, we would) to the runways, to AYR's line, it's like they are everywhere.

Robe coats, blanket coats, whatever... we want one.

Street Style:

Source

On the Runway:

Creatures of the Wind, Houghton, Altuzarra, Richard Chai ,Love and Harbison

The Row

Christopher Raeburn, Eudon Choi, Tommy Hilfiger

DKNY

Coats people. Coats.

NYFY14

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 04:41:00 +0000

So, yeah. New York Fashion Week started today. And, guess what? We're not there.

Not like we'd expect to be there or anything, buuuuut, if we were going, what, just what in the world would we pack? We have problems over-stuffing our bags for a ho hum weekend back up in the Twin Cities, so this would present quite a challenge.

But a challenge we do like to take on.

If, we were so lucky to be in attendance and a part of such magical artistry and creativity, here are a few choice essential items. Pieces that are classy, yet with an edge

Some sort of geometric necklace
Fabulous and colorful, yet ladylike tote
Specs
A red lip ( for those days when we don't really care to do anything else to our face or hair)
Gorgeous, Ginormous thrifted fur coat. We don't have one yet, but we're on the lookout!
Distressed denim
Boots. For some reason, these oxblood colored one's are speaking to us
A nice cozy scarf
Smart t's

For all you lovely ladies who are there, enjoy!

Introducing AYR Denim, Clothing Company

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 02:43:00 +0000

What happens when you combine the glorious-ness that is JCREW, Madewell and Calvin?

AYR.

Only the most perfect fitting denim and new effortlessly chic casual line. Owned by Men's staple Bonobos, the website launched today with well tailored and classic pieces, making The Guide of what to invest in for years to come.

Just begging to be incorporated into our uniform, the debut line ( with 75 pieces) delivers on denim with a variety of washes and cuts, called “the skinny,” “the ciggy,” and “the micro-flare," not to mention all the crepe silk shirt, tee, tank and blazer goodness.

The hunt for our spring wardrobe just might be over. Definitely pieces we'd snag for NYFW... oh yeah, we're not going. Nvrmd.

This Robe. The Robe.

Love this Cami!

The "Ciggy"

Oh, and don't forget to enter our CoverGirl Giveaway!

CoverGirl's new bombshell collection: review and giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Mon, 03 Feb 2014 00:51:00 +0000

We were so excited when CoverGirl and Walmart asked us to try out CoverGirl's new Bombshell Collection, and show you guys how we might create our own bombshell look!

Growing up with CoverGirl as our first foray into the world of mascara, we couldn't have asked for a better new wand... or rather cool 2-step wand to try out!

We must note: mad props to all those YouTube video make-up stars. Ceating a great video tutorial is all kinds of crazy hard... especially when technology doesn't cooperate! So, hopefully you like what we put together!

Check out how we work the following (c/o CoverGirl and Walmart):

COVERGIRL Bombshell Volume by LashBlast™ Mascara. This entirely new mascara features a first-of-its-kind Boost System that has two brushes and two formulas for MEGA VOLUME and DRAMATIC INTENSITY. Super fun! We went with Very Black. But it also comes in Black, Black/Brown and Brown.
COVERGIRL Bombshell Shine Shadow by LashBlast. The Shine Shadows feature reflective pigments that play with light to bring dimension to any look. Our favorite shades were the Gold Goddess and Copper Fling, but there are four-more fabulous, blendable and super creamy shades: Ice Queen, Platinum Card, Color Me Money and Ooh La Lilac.
COVERGIRL Bombshell Intensity Liner. This precision felt tip pen, with a smooth formula, glides on for a little or a lot of deep, dark sexy. It's great for experimenting with a cat eye. We went with Pitch Black Passion, but it also comes in Chocolate Kiss

Check it out!

We are also pleased to announce that we're giving a $100 Walmart Giftcard* away, so one of our lucky readers can snag some awesome CoverGirl beauty swag and build up their beauty bar! Seriously all kinds of goodness at walmart.com too!

To enter for your chance to win, simply follow these easy steps:

- Like us on Facebook
- Follow us on Twitter
- Leave a comment below telling us your must-have product from the collection - in your comment be sure to tell us your Facebook/Twitter username/handle.

Good luck! And, we will draw a winner at random and announce the winner on Feb 9th!**

*Walmart gift card and information have been provided by CoverGirl.
** Winner must be in the United States

seeing is believing

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 01:42:00 +0000

What's that you say?

Yes, seeing what we actually have to wear is part of our daily, "I have NUH-THING. I'm telling you, NUH.THING. to wear" battle. We women actually only wear up to a 1/3 of what's in our closets ( you men, well, that's another story). Seriously, over half of the things we own never grace the light of day. Due in part, to the fact that we can't see all the fabulosity we own ( among other things).

This is just sad.

And so, we attempt to discuss creative storage to arm us against the evil "Nuh. Thing."

Displaying necklaces ( and other baubles) on a clean, but stylish hanging boardy-thingy is a great way to spice up your closet and get you excited about all the accessorizing posibilites! This one is from Stella and Dot, but you better believe that Pinterest has some great DIYs.

See also, using branch looking apparatus' for belt storage and velcro to hang.

Other great storage ideas include lucite or clear trays ( see office supply stores for great ideas and finds) housed in wardrobe/dresser drawers or on shelving.

your mental wish list

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Mon, 20 Jan 2014 02:07:00 +0000

One of the secrets we impart to our clients is to keep a mental "wish list"- those things you're pining after, that you just can't wait to snag and add to your closet or home. Then, when you're out and about and spot a great deal, you can determine whether or not it's worth it to spend, or save for those items on "the list."

So, what's on ours? A little peak into a few items that we have our eye on.

Vince Flats / Everlane Sweatshirt / Blue Leather Moto / Horn Necklace / Triangle Necklace / Clare V Leopard Clutch / Brass Urchin/ Carrie Bradshaw Print / Bar Cart

Stay smart & savvy!

classic black boots

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Thu, 16 Jan 2014 04:54:00 +0000

Our mission this past fall, after a MAH JOR closet overhaul, was to find the most classic and versatile black boots possible - an investment piece to transcend trend and see us through years to come.

Yes, those boots. The boots.

Those that could be dressed up, dressed down, and pass a corporate office dress-code while not being too stuffy.

Just when we thought they didn't exist, we somehow stumbled upon our ultimate workhorse. We love our Frye's. And there's not much a little ankle black boot doesn't go with ( certainly more than what we've picked out below).

Our advice? Don't give up until you've found yours.

less

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 03:39:00 +0000

Maybe it's the new year, maybe it's just because we have a ton of crap that we don't need. When you think about it, the more things are simplified, the better they become ( especially, we believe, when it comes to our closets). The more stuff we cram in to our day, the more things we buy, the less we are truly enjoying anything.

So here's to enjoying.

fabulous (faux) fur

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 04:22:00 +0000

We once owned a rabbit fur vest erroneously assumed to be faux. Talk about suuhh-wett-ting-to-death. While said vest is no more, we have rekindled our love affair with fur (of the faux variety) and are loving big oversized coats. There's just something glamourous about them, wouldn't you say?

Snagging one recently at a local consignment shop (always sure to surprise and delight) we can't wait to don it out and about. We suggest pairing with a simple t, well worn denim and a pair of well-loved leather boots (or perfectly pointy heels).

Here's to feeling fabulous in fur!

winter skin essentials

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 03:54:00 +0000

A key piece in our winter wardrobe is actually not a piece of clothing, but rather a beauty ( ok several) products.

The kind of the hydration variety and our secret to staying glamourous through these tundra - esque days here in good 'ole wisco. Your skin. You wear it everyday, why not be good to it, yeah? We once erroneously subscribed to the fact that our breakouts were due to too much oil... when it fact the good 'ole dermatologist suggested it was because we were doing a great job of drying it raw, and in effect clogging our pores. Oops.

In current rotation:

First up, L'OCCITANE's Immortelle Brightening Cream. This deliciously smelling luxurious cream ( that we snagged at TJ MAXX no less) instantly puts a little pep in our step as part of our daily moisturizing routine. Sometimes it's almost insane to drop these bucco bucks on such a little jar, right? We use sparingly!

Next, Caudalie Divine Oil is just that. Divine. Hello, does everything french smell delicious? This is great for any time of year and can be used on hands, feet and even hair. We like to put it on both our hands and feet before bed... and then sometimes on the tresses before torching it with the blow comb. Especially, when it's this bone dusty, life sucking dry out.

Ah Clinique. A good pure stand by. We absolutely adore the rich moisture this gel ( the little sister to the classic moisturizer) employs. A little drink for the skin.

Stay hydrated ( and warm)!

office supplies

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Sun, 05 Jan 2014 17:12:00 +0000

While working in an office has never quite lived up to the glamourous stature it once assumed as a wee 5-year-old, we've been obsessed with offices supplies since and nevertheless. And, while post-its, sharpies, legal pads and paper clips all hold a special place in our hearts, it's the interesting and stylish twist that get's us all a flutter.

That said, you'd envision we conduct ourselves in quite the chic work station, would you not? Let's just say that has slipped as of late, and we're regaining control over the madness. We think your space should be as inspiring as your work ( if not more so). Thanks to a quick stop at Target's dollar bin and a bit of perusing on Amazon - we're back in business.

Check out these chic pencils and pens we scored at the Tar-Jay Boutique the other day (the acrylic file organizer is courtesy of Amazon).

We're stepping up our game.

sweet 2014 printable calendar

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 23:07:00 +0000

To get your bright and shiny new year started off right, we're sharing a sweet little free printable calendar spotted on Oh The Lovely Things. Lovely indeed. Get yours here.

Happy 2014!

let your heart be light

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 17:31:00 +0000

Hope you all are enjoying a Merry Little Christmas!

Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Balls

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 02:11:00 +0000

So, while peppermint may be the pumpkin spice of winter, we love it all the same. It's the feature of one of our new favorite holiday treats! A tried and true crowd pleaser, these decadent beauties are super easy to make and look festive to boot. We suggest making them for your next jolly get together.

The Recipe:

1/3 cup chopped candy canes/ peppermints
8 oz of cream cheese softened
36 Oreos finely crushed
16 ounces Baker's Chocolate, melted

Reserve 1 Tbsp of chopped peppermint. Mix remaining candy with cream cheese and cookie crumbs until blended. Shape into 48 (1 inch ) balls. Freeze for 10 min. Dip balls in melted chocolate; place on waxed paper covered rimmed baking sheet. Sprinkle with reserved candy. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Enjoy!

your holiday sweater strategy

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Thu, 21 Nov 2013 04:41:00 +0000

And so we ask, do you have one? It's that time of year again. The time for ugly holiday sweater fabulousness. We've recently been asked to help source and style such ugliness, and thought we'd share our strategies for finding suitable wears to your next festive fete.

First, these beauties fall into three jolly categories.

We break it down.

The "this was made specifically so holiday could barf all over you - and yes, we know it's uggle."
The " careful, did your mother - in - law wear something similar last year?" As in, seriously wear? Cardinals on denim, matching turtleneck sets, and the occasional vest falls into this category. Take note. If you go this route, be sure to jazz it up with extra uggle so that folks can distinguish you and your taste from the aforementioned mother - in- law.
The "someone actually wore this and thought they were quite styling once- upon- a-time." Are these so ugly, that they're fashionable? Ah the vintage beauties ( really well-made and probably a bit pricey in their day). Timeout. Is that a pig or a pink deer on that christmas tree down there?

The trick my lovelies is to scrounge until you can find one falling into category 3 - where true holiday magic, humor and ugliness resides. The joy of such discovery is almost as fun as donning this wonderful gay apparel. But tread lightly, straying into category 2 threatens at every turn.

On to the sources

Your mother's closet ( or your father's for that matter, depending on the decade) could prove fruitful
Your aunt - craft a cover for the true mission at hand so as not to unintentionally offend
Good Will, vintage or thrift - go early, well nourished and be prepared to fend off ladies on similar quests

Making your own, or ordering off "the ugly sweater store" is always an option, but is that cheating? We feel it's not truly in keeping with the mystique and spirit of that which is the sacred and ever celebrated "ugly holiday sweater."

Good luck!

red + stripes = all sorts of nice

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 04:42:00 +0000

When did Halloween suddenly become the day before Christmas? Starbucks red cups arrived in full holiday force Nov 1 ( as if signaling holiday + dingle berry merriment must now commence). And, Hallmark is already running their " 'insert romantic wish-come-true' for christmas" specials ( yes, we watched a few). We're a bit dizzy from all this holiday flip flop ( as "fall harvest" goes on clearance and pilgrims + mr. turkey are relegated to the 70% off bins). Wait. We haven't even tasted a piece of pumpkin pie... much less dressing, cranberries... etc. And, yet... somehow we find ourselves inspired by the bright and jolly red crimson hue.

It's no secret that our go-to includes a blazer, stripes and skinnies. All classics, that can be dressed up, down or with a twist. We suggest investing in the same... even if red isn't your thang.

And, heels just makes the world feel better. Wouldn't you agree? A few snaps of our striped ensemble to inspire your classics ( whether you want to get all holiday-esque just yet is up to you).

are you in on the secret?

noreply@blogger.com (Mary Boersma) — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 02:17:00 +0000

of Madison's first, one-and-only, fully sustainable boutique? Now you are. Complete with a little bubbly, vino ( and of course fashionable ladies), UpShift arrived in style and to much fanfare over near Le Lingerie and Good Style Shop on East Johnson in Madison last Saturday.

A shopping experience like to no other - you're basically borrowing from your best friend's closet. No really.

Wait. What?

We spell it out for you:

Step 1: Bring in whatever you no longer need/wear/etc. anymore - shoes, accessories, the works

Step 2: Pay $20 to cover all your shopping

Step 3: And fill your empty bags with amazing trends to take home

It's that simple. No consigning or selling. It's like trading up to a whole new wardrobe without spending buco bucks! Worried you won't find anything? We've never left empty handed, and inventory turns over DAILY.

So what have we scored? Gucci loafers, argyle sweaters, bangles, jcrew jeans, flannels... and so much more.

Go. Take inventory of your closet. Empty, fill, and repeat. Now.

UpShift
836 East Johnson
Madison, WI