Goodbye, 2013... Hello, 2014!!

Happy holidays, lovelies!!

I hadn't planned to do an "end of the year" post, but thought twice about it because it's been such a great year for Dazzling Diva and I wanted to close 2013 out properly.

Personal style blogging has its ups and downs and certainly presented its share of challenges this year. I can't express the joy I feel when everything is going smooth and on a roll and I get to share my little piece of the world with all of you. It's exciting! And interacting with people who love girly things as much as I do is always enjoyable.

I look forward to making 2014 just as good, if not better. I was thrilled with the success of my first giveaway and look forward to hosting others in the new year.

I am still navigating the waters of social media and appreciate every single person who follows me on Pinterest and Instagram. Through these channels, I actually got to experience my very first brand feature on Instagram, which I'm sure is the norm for some bloggers, but little ol' me felt it was awesome! But that same experience also taught me a lesson about having thick skin...maybe I'll tell you all about it one day. *smile*

IFB has certainly played a major role in providing "bloggerly" guidance throughout this journey. I was also fortunate enough to have my first ever Christmas gift guide be selected for one of their holiday project roundups.

I revel in my small accomplishments, and plan to work toward more in the coming months. I'm not big on making new year's resolutions, but I do believe a new year can represent a fresh chapter, of sorts, and is a great time to recharge yourself.

As for myself, I haven't yet mastered juggling it all - work, blogging, school, family, friends, "me time," etc. so trying to better organize the time and finances in my life are on the top of my list. I also intend to push aside my shyness and reach out to more experienced bloggers for advice.

On a final note, as this year closes, I encourage you to let your loved ones know their importance to you in 2014. My family aims to keep our spirits high as we countdown the remaining hours of 2013, while we nurse heavy hearts and we prepare to send one of our loved ones off to heaven.

 "We enjoy warmth because we have been cold. We appreciate light because we have been in darkness. By the same token, we can experience joy because we have known sadness."

~ David Weatherford ~

 

I wish all you beauties a blessed and happy new year! 

Kidecals.com - A Review & Promo Code!

Hello, ladies!

I'm sure you all are prepping for the holidays, unless you're one of the lucky girls who's all done! As I finish out my mad and frazzled dash this last week, I decided to take a moment to review one of the online retailers I'd suggested in my very first holiday gift guide: Kidecals.com.

I will preface my review by stating that this is a sponsored post, so I did receive free items from Kidecals, but the opinions stated here are purely my own.

I'm all about being able to customize things to your taste and have long been a fan of wall decals, I use them regularly throughout my home when decorating. My initial thought of the Kidecals.com site was that it looked colorful and inviting, so I was excited to dive in.

I headed straight for the keycals (keyboard decals), since I'm on my laptop a lot and thought jazzing up the keys would be really cute. I was super disappointed to find out that it would only fit the keyboards of Mac products *sad panda*. So I perused around a bit, sure I'd find something else.

And perused some more...took a break....came back and tried again.

Ok, so it took a while. But not because they didn't have other things, but because a lot of the products were geared towards kids or parents. Which doesn't apply to my life directly, though I certainly thought to grab some labels for my nieces. However, I was certain my mom wouldn't appreciate finding them adhered to her walls or dining room table, so I nixed that idea.

Ultimately I settled on some chalkboard labels and two universal use labels. My order arrived quickly in some very fun looking packaging.

You get several chalkboard labels, in two different sizes. But they are kind of small, so don't write big (as I do). I plan to "fake" the whole chalkboard look and just use a white Sharpie instead of chalk. I have yet to decide what I'm going to label yet, but probably some jars for the kitchen.

I am an avid Pinner (you can follow me here), so it's a total truth that most times I'd rather be pinning. Especially being that I even do it while waiting in the doctor's office. I'm thinking this label will likely end up on the back of my laptop, which is just basic black. But I'm curious about the removal or permanency...which is why it isn't on there yet.

The final label totally jumped out at me because in my "real life" I'm what people refer to as an IT geek, (I've worked in the technology field for about 13 years). The home décor project I'm currently working has been to make over my closet, to make it a really personal space. I've been working on it for a few months and plan to finish up over the holidays (and share with all of you). Anyway, I opted to stick this label to a small sheet of paper and frame it, in order to add it to my gallery wall in there. I thought it would be a nice quirky addition.

I think I'll color in that piece of "tape" with a gold Sharpie....
y'know, since I'm a Chic Geek lol

Overall, on a scale of 1 to 10, I'd give Kidecals a 6. Their shipping was prompt and fast, checkout was easy (we like people who use PayPal) and the items that arrived were great quality. I would just suggest that they widen their selection of offerings if they want to attract another section of consumers.


Why don't you try Kidecals out for yourself and get 15% off your order by using the coupon code 'FASHION' at check out.

10 for $10 (or Less!) - Gifts for the Unexpected Guest

At holiday time I like to be prepared as possible, and that means having Christmas gifts on hand for those unexpected visitors! It could be your brother's new girlfriend, a friend from work drops by or a cousin you haven't seen in ages shows up to spread some cheer.

Well, even if that person knows that I was not anticipating their arrival, I still feel bad if they leave empty handed. Especially, if they have such great timing that they show up during the family gift opening!

So as I do my holiday shopping, I try to also pick up a couple things that I can wrap and place under the tree as "placeholders." And no worries, these gifts don't have to be major purchases!

 

1.  Mason Jar Shot Glasses $10
2.  Hard Case Security Wallet $10
3.  Studded Bow Convertible Gloves $7
4.  e.l.f. Nail Cube $10
5.  Copco Reusable Travel Mug $8
6.  Pocket Ungame $9
7.  Merona Fleece Scarf $9
8.  Agloves Unisex Texting Gloves $9
9.  Bath & Body Works Scentportables $10 (for holder and pods)
10. Mens Studded Wallet $10


Another great thing about these presents is that they are all things that if you don't gift them away, you can use them yourself (or give one belatedly to a forgotten friend)! So, I'd personally encourage you to grab things that you'd also like, because you just might be able to keep them! *wink*

Don't Break the Bank Holiday Gift Guide

'Tis the season, y'all! Even you hadn't started before, Black Friday and Cyber Monday have kicked off the official holiday shopping season, so get your credit and debit cards ready!

In season's past I've typically been delighted to be known as the family Santa, as I thoroughly enjoyed shopping for family and friends. I was even one of those people who had backup presents under the tree in the case of an unexpected guest. It was a regular occurrence for my shopping list to be all checked off by October.

However...

Not this year. This year I find myself struggling a bit for gift ideas and find my brain a bit too fuzzed out to focus at times. I figured maybe some of you may be in the same boat, so I'm adding my two cents into the world of gift guides taking over the web.

So let's dive in, shall we!



via

For your friend who is the walking, talking diva of your group, give her a little glam to take her into the new year, with the gift of fabulous fur (in an animal friendly faux) or sparkly sequins:

 

1. The Limited Fur Keyhole Scarf $25

2. Express Sequin Infinity Scarf $20

 

 

via

 

We all have that girlfriend who is religious about taking out "me time" (which is uber important) and loves to spend that quality time enjoying good soak in the tub. Help make those moments even more special by adding a touch of glimmer or coziness to her ritual:

 

3. Lush Bubble Bar in Sunny Side $8

4. Target Gilligan & O'Malley Knit Robe $22

 





via

She's just a lover of makeup, but all of her friends are pretty sure that her artistic skills rank right up there with the best. Give an elegant gilded tray for her to display her fav beauty goods or a shiny dotted train case can keep her organized on the go:

5. Urban Outfitters Gold Vanity Tray $19

6. Ulta Polka Dot Train Case Set $25

 

 



via

For the diva that keeps you all updated on the latest and greatest technology, and is never seen without one of her devices (if not more!), deserves gifts that customize or accessorize! Give her stylishly fun keyboard decals for her Mac or an oversized clutch that can do double duty as a device case or outfit accessory:

7. Kidecals Keyboard Decal $16
(as a gift for all my lovely readers, get 15% off your order
at Kidecals.com when you use the code 'fashion' at checkout)
 

8. Forever 21 Oversized Clutch $9

Bounties of baubles can be found adorning the fingers and neck of this fabulous friend, give her a place to store those adoring pieces by her bedside. You can personalize a dish and have it monogrammed with her initials, or even better, if she's a recently engaged friend or newlywed, this is a sweet way to acknowledge her new union:

9. Crate & Barrel Mr. & Mrs. Ring Dish $13

10. Etsy Black & White Catchall $10 

 

 

I really do try to give thoughtful gifts to my loved ones and dear friends during the holidays, but that certainly doesn't mean I have to go broke over it! All of my suggestions are priced under $25, because even divas have to budget.

 

Any suggestions I've provided where prices may or have gone up, keep an eye out for 50% off sales (like at Express and The Limited)  and coupons in your inbox or mailbox (Ulta has a $5 off $10 currently circulating) which will help to keep your price points low.

 

If you ladies have any other key places for finding great holiday gifts, I loved to hear about them in the comments!

This post is also linked to IFB Project #125.

 

 



DD's Style File - Leather Weather

The leaves fall fast and furious around these parts and nowadays sunshine comes at a premium. But it does kind of make it perfect for those darker, edgier looks. Like leather!

I've wanted a pair of good leather pants for a while, but I have yet to see a pair with a budget friendly price tag. So, I finally gave in and went for the coated denim trend when I saw these on The Limited site. They looked very sleek and had a nice sheen. I figured they'd make a good substitute. You may recall seeing them in my "Fall Wardrobe Haul" post a few weeks ago.

 

 

 

Leopard foldover clutch - Forever 21
Layered necklaces - old
Teardrop earrings - Express

 

Cropped leather jacket - INC for Macy's
Cream blouse - Material Girl for Macy's
Black coated denim - The Limited
Peep toe booties - BCBGMaxAzria

Unfotunately, it's back to the fitting room for me... Because although they fit well the few times I tried them on, when it came to wearing them in “real life” they stretched out in the rear. That in itself wasn't terrible, but they have no belt loops, so they absolutely REFUSED to stay put and constantly slid down!

  

Even while taking these photos, I would periodically have to stop and do the tug and wiggle dance. I do have a curvier bottom, but I have other ankle crop and cigarette pants from The Limited that also do not have belt loops and I have no problems whatsoever with those.

 

So, even though I was very excited to get my hands on these, they are seriously my worst purchase from The Limited. Ever. I’m even slightly peeved that I can no longer return them. I hate wasting money.

 

However, I did notice they now offer a deep navy pair that does have belt loops, so if you're still interested, those could certainly be worth a try.

 

 

This top, on the other hand, is one I consider a win. It's a summer blouse with buttons down the back and a cut out between the shoulder blades, but I actually liked it better layered under heavier pieces. I'll be the first one to say that I was totally giving the side eye when Madonna and her beautiful daughter Lourdes launched this Material Girl line, but after making two or three purchases, I'm kinda changing my tune. Am I alone on that?

Today's post is also being linked up to Style Me Friday, hosted by The Fashionista Next Door.

 

 

 

 



DD's Style File - Easy Like Sunday Morning

I consider this post to be the blog equivalent of a #latergram... I actually took these photos just a couple weeks ago, but didn't get around to posting them (I miss all the greenery already). As of late the weather has been super crazy and not at all conducive to blog photo shoots...

It's getting to be that time of year when seasonal depression starts to set in because you'll get one day where it's nice and sunny out (though fairly crisp) and two days later you get gray skies and snow-like substances. In a nutshell, it kind of sucks...but know that I'm still looking for the silver lining.

I've been soooo super busy lately. And the change in weather and time (setting the clocks back) have made me feel more inclined to stay home with a hot cup of tea or cocoa and curl up with the remote, my favorite throw and my little guy, Toonch.

In the colder months, I actually end up turning my focus less on fashion and more toward home décor. Which is probably pretty reasonable, considering that you spend more and more time indoors. So why not want it to look inviting.

White blazer - Labworks for Target
Beige top - The Limited
Navy pants - The Limited
Camo print flats - Express
Gold clutch - Cosmopolitan for JCP
Woven bracelet - The Limited

Incidentally, for a fashion girl like myself, the first home project I plan to tackle is not one of the main living areas.

It's my closet. Of course!

By the end of this month, I plan to purge a hefty amount from my wardrobe, but my primary objective is to make my closet into more of a "dressing room." I spend a decent amount of time in there and would like it to feel like my pretty place.  If you follow me on Pinterest you know I have a board dedicated to the Pretty Closet Challenge, and I've actually managed to get some of the pieces already. It's just that some of the shelving I just don't want to put together myself...

I know, that sounds bad, since I'm the one who wants a fancy schmancy closet. But I'm just not in the mood for mini wrenches, bags of screws and sheets of wordless directions...

 

 

Lately I've just been in the mood for "easy." Kind of like this outfit. Rather unintentionally, I've been spending more time in flats than normal. But y'all know I have to keep my punch 'n pizzazz, so I tossed some gold trimmed camo print flats and a nice big reflective gold clutch into the mix. I actually wouldn't mind sticking to this same look and switching out the white Labworks jacket with the other navy one I bought (yep, I bought two...). I think it would lend the look a contemporary suiting kind of feel.

 

Hmmmm....maybe I'll give that a try soon.

 

 

Well, I'm off! As I begin to make some progress on my dressing room I'll post some updates, which I hope you can use for your own inspiration. You ladies stay lovely!!

 

 

Clarisonic Deep Pore Set Review

Ok, so it's been about six weeks since I started using the Clarisonic Deep Pore Cleansing system. The combination of all three pieces promises to control oil and noticeably minimize large pores. While the brush head is recommended for all skin types who have pores issues, the cleanser and mask are marketed toward individuals battling to control both. It's recommended that the mask is used a couple times a week in conjunction with the cleanser.

As I previously wrote about, I love my Clarisonic and opted for the acne brush over the deep pore one. However, I couldn't resist the urge when they packaged it up so nicely and talked those sweet words about smooth skin and disappearing pores.

When I used other cleansers that originally came with my brush, I felt they were more like detergent. Very drying and too harsh on even my oily face. Stuff like this tends to make the situation worse, as your skin attempts to overcompensate and therefore produces even more oil.

I found this deep pore cleanser to be less drying, but not by much. But felt that it cleansed in lieu of stripping moisture from the skin. So, I didn't have a problem using it twice a day, as long as I moisturized after (as I have to do anyway). The problem with this cleanser is that it is entirely too fragranced. I am sensitive to smells, but it's not like this is going to trigger a headache, but there's potential for a sneezing attack. It may sound odd to say keep it away from your nostrils and mouth, as you would think you would do that with most cleansers anyway. But seriously, this time, really take heed. It kind of stings or irritates my nasal passage and it tastes positively horrible.

Of course none of them taste pleasant, but none of my other cleansers leave any bitter afterthoughts in my mind. I can't even recall a taste. And that means something. In case you're curious, I rotate Neutrogena stress relief scrub, Murad AHA cleanser, Dr. Perricone vitamin C cleanser and Clean & Clear Soft scrub.

As for the mask, the instructions suggest that when you use it, do so right after cleansing, leave it on for fifteen minutes and then use your Clarisonic to remove it. But listen closely....

DON'T DO IT.

I find that it is entirely too drying to use this method. What I found works best is to use it after a milder cleanser, and remove it by rinsing off as I do any other mask.

As for the brush, I don't hate it. At first, I couldn't really tell the difference between this and my normal brush, but after several days I felt that it was denser and plusher than the acne brush, with shorter bristles. But the brush itself seems to clean well.

So, leaving you with my final thoughts - don't bother.

The kit retails for about $65 at most retailers, but I suggest you save your money and buy just the brush instead if you're truly interested. Although my breakouts have been tame as of late, I will likely return to my acne brush head after I finish with this one. However, I did see that they now offer Luxe High Performance brush heads, and I'm super intrigued (I'm a sucker for words like 'luxe'), so it's pretty likely that I'll have another review for you soon!



*This is not a sponsored posts, all products discussed were purchased with my own money. The opinions expressed are my own.

DD's Style File - Dress Down Day

Dress down day, that's what the kids call it in school, right?

But really though, can you guys believe it?! I'm actually rockin' sweats and sneakers on the blog today! Yep, I actually own some, which some of my close friends totally would not believe I even own and wear when I'm not working out. Hey, I like to get comfortable too, and some days its just necessary, y'know.

Cold shoulder top - Forever 21
Gray joggers - Zara
Leopard foldover clutch - Forever 21
Black wedge sneaker - Simply Vera for Kohl's
Earrings - Stately Steel

I love me some joggers though, especially the ones with the tapered ankle. I'm the first one who wouldn't be shy about wearing sweatpants and heels. I know some say it's a fashion "don't," but for me it's a little glam meets a bit of street. However, for this day, it was all about cute, cool and comfortable - hence the wedge sneakers. But either way I'd toss on a big, slouchy sweater or sweatshirt and off I go.

I'm not big on studs, but I thought the neckline added a little baddie, no?

Denim jacket - Old Navy (old)

I really gravitate to off the shoulder stuff too, pretty much just as much as I love leopard print. And even though this top was a bit different from my normal style choices, it sang to me from the rack as I walked by (think Pier One commercial). You all might be slightly surprised to know that as much as I buy new things, this denim jacket is an oldie, but goodie. I got it at Old Navy for about $20 like nine years ago and it's a workhorse, it's takes me through spring and fall with a pashmina double wrapped around my neck, wards off the chill on cool summer nights, and adds some casual ease to business pieces.

I'm curious whether you ladies think I'd be committing a fashion crime by wearing stilettos and sweats, so feel free to drop me a comment below!


Until next time, beauties, have a fabulous week!

Diva's Desires - Fall Dresses

I haven't done one of these in a minute, but let me just put it out in the atmosphere...for fall, I desire dresses, but more specifically dresses with sleeves.

I want weather appropriate dresses that compliment the figure, by skimming, not clinging, to my shape.

 

I want work appropriate choices that keep me warm in the office without needing an extra layer, but are chic enough to take me through the weekend with a scarf swirled about my neck finished off with ankle booties and patterned tights.

 

Give me cozy knit fabrics in flirty silhouettes, that leave me feeling fly, not frumpy.

 

And if you please, as wrinkle free as possible, with forgiving cuts that leave room, because I like to eat. 

 

I mean, 'tis is the season for apple cider, pumpkin laced everything, sprinkled with a bag of Halloween candy and a dash of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner - so a little wiggle room becomes very necessary.

 

(this post has been sponsored by a frustrating shopping experience, as all these lovely ideas found online are not so readily available in stores.)

 

DD's Style File - Little Leopard

Y'all...this weather is getting bananas. When I wake up in the morning it's freezing, at lunchtime it's chilly, at four o'clock it's 65 degrees, by evening it's so cold I had to finally break down and turn on the furnace. Now, tell me how in the heck do you get dressed for that??

Since it's cold enough for a turtleneck I decided to layer that under a cropped jacket and kept the look sleek with black tuxedo pants.

Crop leopard jacket - vintage
Tuxedo pants - The Limited
Turtleneck - old
Red pumps - Michael Kors

Instead going for all black, I added the glossy red patent pumps. A pair of great red pumps are a staple that can be hard to find, fortunately these Michael Kors just might fit the bill for me. The right height, the perfect shade of red (I like a true red) and they seem to be fairly comfortable.

Another win was this leopard jacket, which was an awesome thrift find. I love thrifting, but don't always have the greatest success finding pieces. However, with this I found a classic, timeless piece that I plan to use as a mainstay in my wardrobe. I've already had it for several years now, but of course there's always room for more leopard. *big smile*




Quilted bag - Dots
Watch - ALDO
Bracelet & rings - The Limited
nail color - CND Sugared Spice

 One of my current "diva desires" is a new cape. I have a black one in wool, but would like to add another. I had found the perfect one at Victoria Secret and planned to purchase it with the gift card I'd gotten for my birthday. However, as I finished another fifteen minutes or so of shopping after adding it to my basket, I went to check out only to find that it had be snagged out of my basket. And apparently, it was the last one! Like, seriously, Vicky?! Needless to say, I was salty, and I'm not ashamed to say - I still am. [insert pouty face here]

 

Anywho, we'll see how that develops... In the meantime, I hope you lovelies are having a fabulous week!

 

This post is also being linked to this week's Style Me Friday link up, hosted by The Fashionista Next Door and IFB's Project #119: Pump It Up.



 

Fall Fever Wardrobe Haul!

My world has been super busy and I've been a bit under the weather, but I'm feeling better and I'm excited to share the pieces I've purchased for this season with you all! I'm calling it my "fall haul" because I've been collecting various pieces since around August, but just really started pulling them out.

So let's dig in, shall we...

 Look #1 

  Leopard sheath dress - The Limited

Red MK pumps - Dillards (similar)

Black quilted clutch - Dots (old)

Gold collar necklace - Dillards

Nothing's better than a knee length sheath dress to add to your wardrobe, especially one with sleeves! Very versatile because the feel of the dress can be switched up by wearing it under blazers and cardigans, adding tights and boots or simply switching up the heels and jewelry. 

Look #2 

 Faux leather peplum top - Target

Leopard pink skirt - The Limited

 Red MK pumps - Dillards

Black quilted clutch - Dots (old)

Gold collar necklace - Dillards

 

Great quality faux leather piece from Target! Peplum is a sweet style, so making it black leather just gives it some bite! (I would love to see it done it white too...) 

Look #3 

 Animal print top - Forever 21

Hunter green harem pants - Nordstrom Rack

Cognac suede bootie - INC for Macys (old)

Yellow mini satchel - Phillip Lim for Target (sold out)

Gold link necklace - JCPenney (old)



I love wearing stylish pieces that are comfortable, like slouchy tops and sweaters and loose fitting pants. This kind of look can even be dressed up a little more by adding a blazer in a heavier fabric, like tweed, and a chunky scarf.

Look #4 

 Gray faux leather zip top - Forever 21

Black coated skinnies - The Limited

Suede buckle peep toe booties - BCBG (old)

Black quilted clutch - Dots (old)



Coated skinnies offer a nice sleek look, like a cigarette pant, and are more substantial than jeggings, which is perfect for the cooler temps. Short sleeves can be layered over long sleeve tissue tees to add a layer of warmth. A striped print long tee can tone down the "bad girl" feel this look gives off as well.

Look #5 

 Orange top with faux leather - Nordstrom Rack

Black coated pencil skirt - The Limited

Suede buckle peep toe booties - BCBG (old)

Black quilted clutch - Dots (old)

Gold link necklace - JCPenney (old)

 The black coating and shiny leather provide some edge for this look, adding a blazer and tights can make it office friendly.

Look #6



 Faux leather dress - The Limited

Cream boyfriend blazer - Lauren Conrad for Kohls

Red MK pumps - Dillards

Gold clutch - Cosmopolitan for JCPenney

Gold collar necklace - Dillards



Perfect dress for date night or girls night, and the girlish A-line shape can make the leather more office friendly with a blazer, cardigan or turtleneck paired with low key pumps.

Look #7

Satin cobalt top - Mango for JCPenney

Polka dot pencil skirt - The Limited

Lionhead necklace - The Limited (old)

Red MK pumps - Dillards

Gold clutch - Cosmopolitan for JCPenney

Cobalt is one of the on trend colors of the season. A lighter weight satin top is seasonless and adds some texture dimension when layered under heavy knit cocoon cardigans.

Look #8 

  Cream knit sweater - Old Navy

Denim vest - The Limited

Olive harem pants - Forever 21

Gold snakeskin pump - Jessica Simpson

Yellow mini satchel - Phillip Lim for Target (sold out)

Turquoise plate necklace - Dillards

A cream lightweight knit sweater is wonderful for chillier seasons, works great with jeans, skirts or dress pants and adds warmth without bulk. Metallics, like leopard print, work like neutrals, and can be interchanged with everything from dark hues like Bordeaux (I hate the word 'oxblood') and hunter green to your brights like citron and fuchsia.



Although it was totally unintentional, it easy to see the trends I fell in love with this season - namely leather and leopard with a dose of metallic! The weather here has been beautiful and still pretty warm, and I'm excited to start integrating these pieces into my wardrobe.

I also want to take a moment to give a HUGE thank you to my cousin, Kelly, for lending me her photography skills to help me pull this post together! I'm really looking forward to working with you more!

On that note, I hope I've provided you ladies with some inspiration or styling ideas and now I'm off to pack for a work trip!


You divas make it fabulous week!

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DD's Style File - It's Fall Y'all!

I didn't want to accept it. I was so against it that it was like being dragged someplace you don't want to go, practically kicking, screaming and clutching on for dear life.

Fall.

Yep, as in the fall season. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate fall. I find it to be an absolutely beautiful time of year and I love all the smells associated with autumn. Along with the impending holiday season happiness. And yes, of course, the love of fall wardrobes.

However, it also means I have to let go of my summer frocks. Light as air, frothy materials and mini skirts with bronzy, bare legs.

And here in the northeast, fall is brief.

The brevity happens to be the biggest problem with fall. It means "winter is coming" (shout out to all my fellow Game of Thrones fans!). Which, to me, represents cold, cold, cold. Oh, and blizzards. And ugly, frumpy boots made for shoveling and snow stomping. And big marshmallow puffer coats made for warmth, not visual appeal...even if it is leopard lined and from Betsey Johnson.

*sigh*

But I've finally accepted that I might as well embrace fall and enjoy the comfortable temps while I can.

So I did what comes most naturally - went shopping!

Red coat - Target
Black & white striped dress - Target
Polka dot blouse - The Limited
Cobalt handbag - Target
Snake print belt - The Limited
Nude pumps - old

You'll notice that the majority of this look came from Target. I have a love/hate relationship with this coat though. I mean, I love it's vibrancy and the weight of it and the cute bird lining. But I hate it for the same reasons. Because I couldn't just leave it in the store on the rack due to all it's cuteness and fall appropriateness. All on top of my need for a new trench. BUT I didn't love the price. One bit.

$50 for a trench from Target is practically wallet robbery. Yet, I paid it anyway. On the opposite side, I got this dress off the clearance rack for ten bucks. And it was ten bucks very well spent, I plan to mix 'n mingle this in my wardrobe regularly.

My "something blue" is my gorgois cobalt handbag. Which I gazed at lovingly early last month, but ultimately put it down and left the store without it. Only to ponder its eye catching loveliness for several days following... Great thing though, I got a Target gift card for my birthday, so needless to say, I made getting my hands on this bag priority one.

I will say, it is not the most well constructed bag, compared to others I've seen or purchased at Target. The quality leaves a bit to be desired. However, I plan to not love it too hard (i.e., not make it my every day bag from October to April) and enjoy the time I have with it.

Another plus to all this, is that I finally signed up for a Target Red card, the debit version. So I do get 5% off purchases and free shipping from Target.com. Why in sweet baby Jesus' name I waited so long to do that, as much a I shop at Target, I do not know.

Sike...I'm lying.

I do know. It's because I didn't realize they offered a debit version. I thought that it was credit only and I didn't need another one of those. But that Red card matched with weekly mobile Target coupons can save you enough dollars to make you feel a little less guilty about that buggy full of merchandise you rolled out of the store with. So, if you don't have one already, I'd suggest you sign up asap! (no, this is not a sponsored post, I am just a Target fanatic)

Speaking of Target....  If you haven't yet done so, today is the last day to enter to win my Fall Fabulous Mini Haul giveaway featuring a Phillip Lim x Target Yellow Mini Satchel! Now go quickly while you still have time to enter!

Have a great weekend!



This post is also a submission for IFB Project #116.

DD's Style File - Toto, Is That You??

Ok, so the road obviously isn't yellow, but as I was editing I stopped and thought that this photo seriously made Toonchie and I look like our own little knockoff version of the Wizard of Oz...

Blue dot dress - The Limited
Yellow blazer - The Limited
Multi print shoe - Nine West
Multi color necklace - thrifted

But let's talk for a minute... Let's talk about how this was just not a great photo shoot day. Like this is seriously the only photo that came out well.

I decided to do a little multitasking and take pictures in between dropping my mom off for errands. However, imagine my delight once I got to my destination and I realized that I'd left my shutter release at home. I. Was. Tickled. Pink.

And to further add insult to injury, for whatever reason, the camera self timer did not want to play nice. So, if it wasn't for this one photo, it would've been a total waste of time. So thank goodness there was at least one in the bunch.

But thankfully my little guy was being on his best behavior (unlike the other day at the park), so I guess I can be grateful for that too... I do love this photo though, so I'm probably going to get a copy framed and add it to the family portrait wall in my house.

But I have to admit that it was rather hilarious to me when I realized the blue dress, reddish shoes and a pup chillin' at my side felt kinda reminiscent of an image of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz lol!

source

 

I will say, although the story of Oz is one of my all time favorites, I'm definitely feeling my polka dots over Ms. Dorothy's gingham....but of course I'm biased. *wink*

 

 

I hope all of you all of having a great start to your week! If you haven't yet done so, I encourage you to enter my Fall Fabulous Mini Haul featuring a Phillip Lim for Target Mini Satchel! There's only two more days before the giveaway closes!