Baubles and Bling


With autumn officially over, it is truly time to abandon all hope: it’s officially cold weather time. Bundle up before you leave the house time. Scarf and glove time. And also, paradoxically, find the shortest sequined holiday party dress known to womenkind. I just don’t know how to feel about winter -- I hate the cold, but I am a sparkle-mad spangle fiend, and I can’t help but embrace a season where it’s socially acceptable to resemble a human disco ball. Here are a few shimmering options for your wintertime soirees. They’re definitely New Year's Eve friendly, even if you might want to leave them at home for the company holiday party.

Starlet Sequin Dress, forever21.com, $27.80
Starlet Sequin Dress, forever21.com, $27.80

I love this -- not only is it obnoxiously glittery, but it also has sleeves, so it's semi-practical! Well, at least only your legs will be frozen with cold. This is progress.

Black Seedbead Flower Headband, target.com, $7.99
Black Seedbead Flower Headband, target.com, $7.99

You need great accessories to shine from head to toe.

Tobi Laura Sequined Shorts in Gold, tobi.com, $48
Tobi Laura Sequined Shorts in Gold, tobi.com, $48

If you really want to stand out, you can nix the typical cocktail dress altogether in favor of some sequined shorts. I happen to own a pair, and I take them out and stare at them every once in a while, but I've never been brave enough to wear them. Maybe this year...

Holiday Sparkle


Personally, I love the holidays because it's the time of year when the temperature drops, people put up their lights, and everything seems very warm and cozy. I love incorporating metallics and sparkles into my holiday makeup and beauty routines because they really evoke the spirit of the season. They add a festive touch to any outfit. Here are a few ideas to get you into the holiday spirit.

Holiday makeup

Glitter nail polish

Blood red nails

Silver nails

Snowflake earrings

I hope these ideas inspire you to get into the festive spirit and I hope all of you enjoy your holiday season!

Overcoming a Long Summer


I know, it’s autumn. But where I live, today’s high reached 101 degrees. I thought it was just my valley town trapped in this heat, but alas, there are also towns in Arizona where I've heard people still complaining about this heat! The weather has been making it quite hard to get into the fall spirit. I've been craving the fall fashion. I can’t wait to dig out my scarves, boots, and sweaters. I've long wanted to buy my PSL. But, it’s been impossible. In order to keep my patience, I found a few things to help me.

1. Start crocheting -- maybe by the time the cooler weather comes around, I’ll have a project finished.

crocheting

2. Drink iced tea -- it’s still too hot to drink my warm cups of tea in the mornings and evenings, but iced tea is refreshing for the heat.

Drink iced tea

3. Bake -- because the end results are delicious with Fall flavors.

Baking fall treats

4. Keep calm and relax because cooler weather will come.

Keeping calm

et me know some ideas to get me through this long summer.

Fourth of July Fashion


What’s better than fireworks and barbeques on Independence Day? Fourth of July fashion, of course. Whether you’re sailing off to Nantucket, venturing into New York City, or spending the holiday on the coast of California, you can celebrate in the utmost style no matter where you are.

For those partying on the beach, make sure your swimwear affirms your patriotic pride. Sport the stars and stripes in style with a suit like this flag bandeau bikini.

Venus 4th of July Twist Bandeau Top, venus.com, $15 (sale); Venus 4th of July Tie Side Moderate Bottoms, venus.com, $15 (sale)
Venus 4th of July Twist Bandeau Top, venus.com, $15 (sale); Venus 4th of July Tie Side Moderate Bottoms, venus.com, $15 (sale)

If it’s a night party in the city, step out in a festive, eye catching dress, like this one from Nasty Gal. Pair it with red wedges to give off a truly glamorous yet equally patriotic vibe.

Starry Bustier Dress, nastygal.com, $58
Starry Bustier Dress, nastygal.com, $58

Going to a day party or barbecue? Settle for something a bit more low key without sacrificing your style. American flag shorts with a simple white tank will show your pride but keep it casual. Or, pair plain royal blue shorts with a starry red and white top.

America Cutoff Shorts, nastygal.com, $88
America Cutoff Shorts, nastygal.com, $88

All Star Raglan Tee, forever21.com, $14.90
All Star Raglan Tee, forever21.com, $14.90

Cuffed Trouser Shorts in Blue, forever21.com, $15.80
Cuffed Trouser Shorts in Blue, forever21.com, $15.80

Don’t forget festive accessories. Wear them alone with jeans and a white top or add them to one of the looks above to take your patritioic panache to its full potential. What better occasion than the Fourth to sport stars and stripes sunglasses or an American flag scarf?

Stars & Stripes Scarf, nastygal.com, $40
Stars & Stripes Scarf, nastygal.com, $40

Patriotic Shutter Shading Glasses, orientaltrading.com, $8.50 / dozen
Patriotic Shutter Shading Glasses, orientaltrading.com, $8.50 / dozen

So sing the anthem and wave some sparklers in glamorous Fourth of July gear. You may even get more attention than the fireworks.

Fun in the Sun: What to Wear Memorial Day Weekend


It's time to run for the nearest beach or sit out in the yard by the pool with Memorial Day literally right around the corner. Memorial Day weekend is synonymous for backyard barbecues, trips to the beach and of course, fireworks. It can be a bit challenging to decide on what attire to wear. But don't worry, this season has some great trends to serve as inspiration!

Tiered Dress in Active Blue, gap.com, $44.96 (sale)
Tiered Dress in Active Blue, gap.com, $44.96 (sale)

Striped Neon Trim Dress, forever21.com, $19.80
Striped Neon Trim Dress, forever21.com, $19.80

ASOS Striped Daisy Print Dress, asos.com, $78.28
ASOS Striped Daisy Print Dress, asos.com, $78.28

You can never go wrong when choosing the oh-so-versatile sun dress. With all of the colors and prints available, you will definitely catch some lucky guy's eye. Try a lightweight fabric such as cotton and don't be afraid to dabble in a little bit of color.

Flower Romper, forever21.com, $19.90
Flower Romper, forever21.com, $19.90

If you are going to the beach or maybe boating and you want to avoid a Marilyn Monroe "Seven Year Itch" moment, opt to wear a romper/play suit. These babies are super flirty and can be worn with wedges or your favorite sandal.

Bakers Luichiny Cal Lee Wedges, bakersshoes.com, $90
Bakers Luichiny Cal Lee Wedges, bakersshoes.com, $90

Jessica Simpson Cocoa Wedges, bakersshoes.com, $98
Jessica Simpson Cocoa Wedges, bakersshoes.com, $98

Bakers Exhale Sandals, bakersshoes.com, $39
Bakers Exhale Sandals, bakersshoes.com, $39

Wedges are all the rave this season so why not find a bright colorful pair or a more neutral shade to accompany your outfit. If you are not comfortable in heels, sandals are the next best thing. The studded ones above are from Bakers and they offer them in a plethora of colors.

And please don't forget the sunscreen and sunglasses! Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend, beauties!