Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers for Her

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A few years ago, Kevin and I started a tradition where we fill each others stockings with little gifts and then exchange them on Christmas morning. Since we open most of our other gifts for one another at the family Christmases at each of our parents' houses, we like to have something fun to open together first thing. It's a little way we have found to make Christmas ours without taking anything away from the traditions we want to keep with our families.

Some of the things I always like to receive in my stocking include makeup, jewelry, warm weather accessories, and small home decor items. So, I've rounded up my favorite trinkets and tiny treasures that any lady would love to have in her stocking, or wrapped up under the tree.

For warm weather accessories, hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, socks, and earmuffs are always a win in my book. But, I've picked out pieces that aren't your granny's accessories, they are pretty colors, in luxe fabrics, with trendy details, Like this beanie with multi-colors pom on top; a classic piece with a modern twist. Or these gloves adorned with a contrasting bow and pom-poms, they are chic but playful. And what about these over-sized faux fur earmuffs? They are the perfect upgrade from the pairs your mom made you wear in grade school. Lastly, you all know I love a good scarf, and this muted plaid will be a staple all winter, I mean, grey and blush pink is such a perfect combo, you can't go wrong.

For jewelry, I am definitely a fan of statement earrings having a moment. I have included 3 different pairs of earrings to make sure every lady is covered. This pair is a subtle but sparkly pair by Kendra Scott. I love the druzy stone paired with rose gold, so pretty. While this pair is a a step up in the drama department from the stud, with a beaded tassel, they can definitely be worn up or down, day to night. They are super versatile and come in 4 colors. Lastly, this thread tassel earring, I have them in 3 colors and absolutely love them! They are super light weight and definitely add some drama to an outfit. Plus, they come in a ton of colors.

Outside of earrings, watches are always a nice Christmas gift. Especially for a spouse or parent. They can be a little pricey, but watches can be a great gift to show appreciation for the role they play in your life. I love this watch with blush pink band and the pearl face, it is really feminine and probably something not in her closet yet. I'm also loving this simple knot bangle. It is a great piece because it can be stacked with other bracelets, be worn alone, or since it is thin, be worn with a watch. One last accessory that will be in high demand as the snow starts to fall? Sunglasses! It seems counter intuitive, but I never leave home without them. Snow glare is real people, and it is the worst. I love the pearl details on this pair, and they are super affordable, only $24!

For face, bath, and body, there are so many great options around the holidays. Lots of companies release limited edition items, as well as gift sets. This Philosophy bath set is a great Christmas gift option because it is a themed set and all the scents are limited edition for the season. Another great gift for any make-up obsessed lady is this marbled beauty blender. I die. Its so cute, only $5, and anything marble is a winner. If the ladies on your list aren't into a lot of products, this lippie is the perfect gift! It's a moisturizing lip tint in a nude color. I recently bought one in the color Honey and it is life changing! Snag a bunch and sprinkle them in everyone's stockings this year. Don't forget you can top a stocking the way you top an outfit, with perfume. You can never go wrong with a classic and clean scent like this one, plus its 15% off.

For home decor, there are lots of options too, from small photo frames, to mini candles. I love the rose gold container this candle comes it, and the scent is one of my favorites! Another idea for any wine lover is a new stopper, and what's better than a monogram? This stopper combines both and would be a great addition to any stocking. If you are doing a little theme with your stocking gifts, a wine accessory and candle, pair great with cheeky socks for lounging around the house and a sleep mask to use while pampering. I love this pair of socks, because, hello, brunch. And how pretty is this pink velvet ruffle edged sleep mask, perfect for getting all that beauty sleep.

Rounding out my stocking stuffer ideas are some more sparkly and marble items. Phones now have almost more options for accessories than girls do. Almost. That said, a new phone case and grip, like this case in marble, and this blush grip, would make a perfect pairing and very practical gift for any girl on the go. Sparkles are aplenty on this wallet that has a glitter finish. Another practical gift, that feels special because of the little details, colors, and material. And finally, what girl doesn't need a little sugar now and then? Include something for her sweet tooth in her stocking like these champagne gummy bears, so fun, and definitely not your kid's candy.

Thanks for stopping by & happy shopping!

SHOP STOCKING STUFFERS FOR HER:

Fall Essentials: Outerwear

My fall essentials series continues today with outerwear. I am definitely one of those people who loves to feel crisp fall air on my face; I also love that with crisp air comes the ability to pile on the layers. Knits, flannel, fleece, you name it, I love to wear it - usually all at once! Vests have become a staple in my wardrobe and with blustery winds around the corner, my, I am already breaking out my gloves and earmuffs with them. This fall I have been wearing my army green, cargo vest on major repeat and have included some ways I already styled it this season. Whether its rainy or sunny, chilly or verging on freezing, I have included an option for you to bundle up in as you make your way out to the pumpkin patches and cider mills this season.

Puffer Vest | Knit Scarf | Jean Jacket | Cargo Vest | Knit Beanie | Faux Fur Vest | Moto Jacket | Blanket Scarf (option)

I really love my....cargo vest!

More outerwear options to love:

What are your favorite pieces to layer this fall?
Thanks for stopping by and have a fabulous day!

Fall Essentials: Accessories

Today I'm kicking off a series on fall essentials. I don't know about you, but I transition a lot of my fall apparel into my winter looks and try to hold off on pulling out my winter coat until it's absolutely necessary. I mean, the winter solstice isn't until December 21st after all. So, even though it may seem a little late to talk essentials, remember everything I am calling a "fall" must-have, can still be worn for many more months!

Let's begin with the finishing touches you add to your outfit. I love fall accessories probably more than any other season's. There is an ease and simple chicness that comes with dressing for comfort in fall and the accessories tend to follow suit. I typically swap pastel and neon tones for rich, saturated ones, and start reaching for scarves to add to every outfit. 

Speaking of scarves, I am beyond obsessed. I own way, way too many scarves, to the point where I am literally in a seasonal rotation. The storage bins in my closet are bursting at the seams with off-season piles of them. For fall, I tend to gravitate towards flannel, knit, and over-sized scarves. I'm definitely verging on unhealthy when it comes to collecting Zara's plaid blanket scarves.

Other accessories I am loving this season are typically functional as well as fashionable. The name of the game as I see it is practicality; staying warm (scarves and tights) and staying dry (hats and umbrellas). I also look for something special in my functional accessories, such as touches of interesting texture and color. I am loving the floppy felt hats popping up in stores; such a romantic shape and so soft to the touch. I am also happy to see a wide variety of tights out again this year, the intricate patterns are divine! See the rest of my essential accessories below.

Tote | Scarf | Hat | Earrings | Umbrella | Necklace | Nail Polish (L) (R) | Tights (L) (R) 

Shop more fall accessories below:

What accessories are on your radar this season?
Thanks for stopping by and have a fabulous day!

Last First Day of School...

Yesterday was the first day of my last semester at LTU, and I could not be happier. After ten years of college I will finally be (fingers crossed) done. In just 4 short months I will be graduating and closing one chapter of my life to start a new one. My path to completing my Master's degree is anything but traditional; long and winding - yes, but traditional - no. Today I want to offer some background and insight into my journey, as I was met with a lot of mixed emotions and contemplation yesterday. 

So way back in 2008, I graduated from WMU with my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Comparative Religion. I had the most wonderful time during my 5 years at Western Michigan University; I met some of my best friends for life, learned so much - both academically and about myself, had grand adventures - across the US and abroad, and grew so much I barely recognized my reflection upon graduation. Then, after I graduated, I took a year off to figure out what I wanted to do for my graduate studies. I had spent so long thinking I wanted to be a lawyer, but after my semester abroad in South Africa (during my final year at WMU, of course), I had a change of heart. I knew that being a lawyer wasn't who I was, but I still wasn't sure what was. I was trying to figure out what I was meant to be or do...thanks American culture for this ridiculous notion. 

During my year off, I found a program that I fell in love with and sincerely thought would answer that pesky question of what the heck am I supposed to be when I grow up? I started my graduate program at Lawrence Technological University 5 years ago in the Fall of 2009. It is a new program and a 5 year one that encompasses both the undergraduate and graduate work for a single degree: a Masters of Science in Architectural Engineering. I will be a member of the first graduating class. Since my previous degrees were in social sciences, I went to school part time for 2 years, then full time for 2 years to complete the undergraduate part of the curriculum, and this past year started the graduate portion. The graduate portion is 30 credit hours, all of which I have crammed into this 5th and final year at LTU. The program is very intensive with classes in four disciplines; architecture, mechanical systems engineering, electrical systems engineering, and structural engineering. It's a jack of all trades degree, where you graduate with extensive knowledge and proficiency in all areas of study. We are trained to choose among the engineering fields within a built environment. FYI, my focus is in electrical systems engineering, or power distribution and lighting design for buildings =D

When I set out to complete this degree, I really didn't know what I was in for, and I have invested almost my entire life so far, nearly 3 decades, into my education, which as the end nears, feels like an eternity. Sometimes I wonder if I should have done some less time consuming and less expensive, it seems like a long time to put "starting my life" on hold. It's silly, but when I look around, I notice I am seemingly behind everyone else in terms of life, at least by traditional standards; I am not married, or even engaged, I don't have children, I haven't started my career, I don't own a home, etc. and sometimes, I get really hard on myself for what feels like being a failure. I start over thinking all of my decisions and choices and regret starts to seep in. Enter the pint of Ben & Jerry's...

But, then I take a deep breath and try to laugh. I have to gently remind myself of my own personal mantra in life, "different isn't better or worse, it's just different and that's okay." It's just silly to compare myself to anyone or any "norm," because I am not living my life to make anyone other than myself happy. And, while school at times has made me more miserable than I know how to cope with, the rewards and experiences I have been afforded because of my non-traditional path have been something I wouldn't trade for a white picket fence, ring, and set of munchkins. Not to mention, I wouldn't have my currently job or have met Kevin, if I had chosen another path, which makes the "what if "game completely moot. When it comes down to it, the "what if" game only reassures me that I am incredibly blessed, and that it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks about my life or decisions. Judge not lest ye be judged, after all, right? So, after much contemplation about my life and where I stand today, I am content and excited for things to come. I don't have regrets about spending so much time learning or the money I have invested in my diverse education, it's all led me to where and who I am today, and I am okay with that. 

All this being said, yesterday was the last first day of school I will have, at least for the foreseeable future. To celebrate, I broke out some of my favorite pieces. I have 3 back-to-back classes from, 2 pm straight through to 8:30 pm on Mondays and I wanted to be comfortable first and foremost. I turned to my favorite jeans, boots, and scarf, some layers for warmth, and a double dose of sparkle to get through the day.

scarf - zara / sweater - old navy / shirt - old navy / purse - target / boots - target / jeans - old navy / knee socks - target

bracelets - jcrew factory, oldnavy /crystal necklace - mindy mae's market  / tassel necklace - mint sugar boutique 

Thanks for stopping by and have a fabulous day!

Wednesday Wants & Wishes: Color Crush on Bordeaux

Happy Hump Day! Today I am swooning over just about everything and anything in the shade of bordeaux. Call it burgundy, wine, brick, oxblood, etc. I don't really care, all I know is that I am currently smitten over this deep shade of red. For the past few years I have been a fan of red lips, the bold, brighter, saturated, stop sign red. I wear it year round whenever I needed a lipstick rather than my typical (daily) lip gloss. This fall however, I have started collecting lip shades in a plethora of red shades, reddish purples, dark scarlets, even venturing into the rosy-taupe spectrum. During my wanderings into new lipstick territories, I tripped and fell hard for creamy, rich shades of bordeaux (seen here). From lips to finger tips, I cannot get enough of the color, so much so that I have been seriously stalking some clothing items to bring the color out of its current role as a supporting actress, to a leading lady in my outfits. Here are a few of the things that are just itching to find a new home in my closet!

Dot Sweater / Earrings / Purse / Dress / Essie / Lippy / Pants / Aztec Sweater / Satchel / Necklace / Shoes / Scarf

I am always on the look out for cozy sweaters as winter approaches and both of these sweaters would fit perfectly into my wardrobe. Can we talk about how these shoes are the perfect chic update to the classic Mary Jane, right? With the holidays approaching, adding subtle pops of this color to your outfits is a perfect way to introduce it to your wardrobe, ie through dark lips and nails, or in your accessories, like with the scarf, bag (love the color block one and the other is a perfect look for less of the RM Mini MAC), and jewelry (statement earrings and necklaces in this color right now are out of control gorgeous). Its a bold color, so it you are not comfortable donning these cute coated skinnies or this adorable dress (perfect with black tights and booties now, and gold bows and glitter pumps for the holidays), accessories is an easy and affordable way to ease into the color. What ever you choose to do, I hope you find the perfect piece in this gorgeous color for fall and the holiday season! 

Oh, I almost forgot, a look from last week is being featured over at Wednesday Style Connection, so be sure to check it out and link-up your favorite look to join in the fun! Also as a reminder, there are just two days left to enter the Zara blanket scarf giveaway, don't miss out, enter here today!

What are you crushing on this week?
Will you be adding bordeaux pieces to your wardrobe?

Thanks for stopping by and have a fabulous day!

It's a Plaid, Plaid, Plaid World + Zara Scarf Giveaway

Happy Friday lovelies!! I am so excited to be teaming up with two of my favorite bloggers today to show you how we wear our Zara blanket scarves. I met both of these incredible ladies through instagram and have had so much fun following their blogs and getting style inspiration from them. Whitley writes over at Simply Whit in a Sequined Life and she is my plaid obsessed twinnie who I am positive was separated from me at birth. I love how she styled her scarf with a colored pant, navy gingham, and vest, such a cute preppy look! Ashton is such a sweetie and writes over at Ashton Wears Things, her adorable style blog. I love how polished she always looks, seriously, the girl is pure class, and this gorgeous blazer with jewel tone pant is no exception! Please check out their blogs for more details on their looks.

Scarf - Zara / Sweater - Target (similar) / Jeans - Old Navy / Purse - Target

Booties - Old Navy / Bracelets c/o Hawthorne Collection

Today, I styled my scarf with a cozy, over-sized, knit, cream sweater which is super soft and comfortable. I paired the sweater and scarf with taupe booties and bag, and my go to denim skinnies for a casual look. To me, this is the kind of look that is quintessentially fall. You know, the type of outfits you immediately associate with fall: over-sized sweaters, scarves, cable knits, plaid button-ups, boots, leggings, wool socks, etc., or at least this is what I think of. So, that being said, I really wanted to capture what my fall style really is about in this look; being comfortable and cozy, while being full of texture. When styling this scarf, I also wanted it to be the focus of the outfit, so I kept the outfit fairly simple with minimal jewelry and neutral accessories. I feel like this really helps the colors of the plaid pop too.

A lot of these pieces you have seen before, as I have written about previously, I am definitely about recycling my closet pieces into new looks to make sure I get the most out of my clothes and to keep myself from feeling like I have nothing to wear. I am still loving these booties from Old Navy and my bracelets from Hawthorne Collection, I mean seriously, how perfect is this sapphire tassel bracelet? 

I must admit that I am a little in love with how these photos turned out. They were taken around sunset on a Friday earlier this month, at the park near my apartment. Kevin and I walked down and took photos, kicked a soccer ball around, and just got to spend some time together outside in the warm glow of the setting sun. It was just a really lovely night and because it was a Friday there was no rush which was a nice change of pace than during our "hurry up and go there and do this" lifestyle during the week. So, maybe its the memories that make me love these photos, but I do all the same. 

Okay, can I take a brief moment to celebrate that it's Friday?!? Holy cow, it has been such a long and stressful week. Since midterms were this week, I am feeling a little mentally spent. This weekend will definitely be used to recharge my little brain batteries and do some much needed cleaning around the apartment. I will try to enjoy having some time to relax, and maybe if I am lucky, take a nap or two ;-) Although the semester is flying by, sometimes I feel like I am caught in a tornado, spinning so quickly I have no idea which way is up and which way is down. I will be counting down the days to Thanksgiving for a prolonged break for sure. 

I really can't express how much I love this scarf...it is the perfect combination of colors; is gigantic, which leads to endless styling possibilities; and is probably the softest material I have ever felt. I know that Whit and Ashton feel the same way, which is why we have teamed up to give one of our lucky readers a scarf of their own. Please use the rafflecopter below to enter for your chance to win this amazing scarf. The widget will be open for one week and then a winner will be announced next Friday. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

How would you style this Zara blanket scarf?

Thanks for stopping by and have a fabulous day!

Fall Favorites

For me, there are just certain things that make each season "feel" different from the last. Transitioning from summer to fall and from fall to winter, there are things that I reach from more in fall than in either season its between. I decided to create a post honoring those things. These are items I am seriously obsessed with during fall; some are timeless favorites I look forward to every year, others are new items that will hold a special place in my memories associated with fall for years to come. 

So, on to the "feeling" of fall... There is just something about fall that reminds me of the feeling of coming home, and definitely the picturesque Hollywood rendition of coming home: you enter your parents house where there is a hot meal on the table, a fire in the hearth, family members in matching sweater sets laughing gleefully, dogs and cats napping together peacefully, sun setting over the trees, the warm and fuzzy version that you store away in your daydreams about how life should be. You know what I mean? Well, this is the type of genuine warmth and happiness that I feel pretty much all the time during fall (absent grad school induced mental meltdowns, of course). Between the colors, the scents, and the textures, this time of year just makes me feel warm, welcome, and content. 

Of course there are things that universally ring in the season (and don't just occur in my daydreams), especially here in Michigan; the changing leaves, the glossy apples, the plump pumpkins, the chill in the air. But other items too, pumpkin flavored everything hits the market (why hello PSL, I certainly have missed you), the kick-off of the season of baking (AKA the season of stretchy yoga pants), and the return of boots (good-bye pedicures, I shall use that money for extra PSL's and yoga pants). No matter where you experience fall, I hope you have the same feelings I do for it, because they are seriously the best. So, as I bask in the glowing hangover of summer known as fall, I will be using the following items pretty much non-stop. I would highly recommend you check them out!

Foxy Mug: Seriously, how cute is this little guy? One of my sisters works at Pier 1 and I am obsessed with all of their mugs. Every season, every mug. They have the best designs, cutest concepts, and you can never have too many mugs, right? ;-) So, as the weather starts to dip, grab an adorable mug from your coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, I know I do!

Taupe Booties: Fall = boots, its pretty much a universally accepted fashion trend every year. This year the crops of amazing booties (the vertically challenged sibling of boots) has been insane! Because booties have been so popular this year, there have been so many great steals and deals, making it hard to say no to picking up a pair, or two! I love this pair from Old Navy because the heel is low and comfortable, the color is perfect, and price is right in my budget. I can't stop wearing them. For real, an intervention must be looming... 

Zara Plaid Scarf: Normally I would not spend this much money on a scarf, and I wear one everyday. Because of my attention disorder when it comes to accessories, I always hesitate to spend more than 10 to 15 bucks on one item. I am definitely a more is more type of girl when it comes to having a variety of scarves, bracelets, necklaces, shoes, etc. so low price is important to me. BUT...I couldn't help myself. I love plaid and know that if I were to invest in this piece I would use it frequently...and I have. Plus, it totally doubles as a blanket its so huge, so its ability to keep me warm in the epic cold that is Michigan's winter will be a bonus!

Colored Tights: These are the best brand. Seriously. This year Target has tights in every color (I wear black tights like they are going out of style, but these fab colored ones are giving basic black some serious competition!) and tons of sizes. I am not a skinny mini so I always get excited when on trend pieces are made in bigger sizes (read: no sausage legs). I wear tights all through the fall and into the winter, they are the cheapest way to extend your summer pieces into the cooler months so you get extra wear of out them. Plus, they keep your stems warm and add an extra punch of color and dimension to your outfit.

Pumpkin Cupcake Candle: I am obsessed with candles. I have tons in every room of my apartment. They make my apartment smell incredible AND they provide extra heat, which for a girl who is perpetually cold is a huge bonus. In the fall, I love pumpkin, caramel, and apple scents. When they are on sale I stock up on Bath and Body Works candles because they smell so, so good! Otherwise, I usually get the jar candles from Michael's craft store. 

Soft Lips in Vanilla: By far my favorite chap stick. I am a total chap stick addict and couldn't live without these, especially as it gets windier and drier indoors.

Leopard Heels: Leopard print heels, enough said right? They are fab. I have been incorporating more leopard print details into my outfits lately, I think, as I am sure you may too, that its the perfect neutral. Leopard is also great for print mixing and can seamlessly make a black, brown, or black and brown monochromatic outfit even more chic! These are cute, comfy, priced right, and a must for the fall.

Rich Hued Lipsticks: Fall is definitely the time of year I switch from nude lip glosses to richly pigmented lip sticks. As a poor grad student, I am on the hunt for lipsticks that fit the adage; champagne taste on a beer budget. This translates to drugstore brands. I have recently picked up a few Revlon brand lippies and I must say for $4.99 I am impressed. The color is long lasting, I only needed to reapply after meals, and the color was rich and pretty pigments for the price. Additionally, the formula was creamy and didn't dry out my lips which can be a problem for me. Definite win. 

Statement Necklace: I have been swooning over this necklace from JCrew Factory since it came out a few months ago. Unfortunately everyone else was too! It sold out quickly and I miss the boat. Single tear of sadness. Until....Jane.com offer a look-a-like at a fraction of the price. Sound the trumpets! So, I immediately snatched one up and upon its arrival a few weeks later, was pleasantly surprised at its quality and versatility, is absolutely goes with everything! 

Vermont Honey Apple Body Gel & Cream: One of my favorite fall scents, its fresh and clean, a very light fragrance; I often stock up as it is a seasonal scent. The body gel is thick and doesn't dry out my skin, which I tend to have an issue with in body washes. I also apply the cream twice daily to keep my skin hydrated and love the Bath and Body Works formulas in general. I have a few favorite scents and this is one of them. This year I also invested in the body mist, which is a nice touch-up mid day for the scent. They are a little pricey, but I watch for sales and think they are worth every penny!

Herringbone Puffer Vest: This has been an almost daily wear for me this fall, if you follow me on instagram you are probably tired of seeing it ;-) I am so glad I followed the IG frenzy over this vest and rushed to my nearest JCrew Factory store the day they hit the shelves to ensure I got one. It was totally worth it. I did get it on sale, however it cost a pretty penny. I have been wearing it so much, in part to get my monies worth, and also, in part, because it is awesome and goes with everything! Seriously, its the perfect print to mix with other prints, can be dressed up or down, and goes with every color under the sun. This vest also inspired me to pick up a few other more budget friendly options from Old Navy which I also love (here and here)! 

Cognac colored Satchel: Again, as if this needs an explanation. Its been all over my blog and my instagram feed. This bag is seriously everything. Best purchase by far of this season, hands down. Target truly did it again. 

Pumpkin Spice Latte Mixes: The return of the PSL to Starbucks is my favorite national holiday. Better than Christmas you say? YES! I would wholeheartedly reply =) As much as I would love to get a PSL every day, sometimes twice a day, during the fall, my wallet would not be happy if I did. That is why I love that Starbucks is selling PSL mixes that you can make at home, genius! A time and money saver wrapped up with a tasty little bow, what's not to love?

Essie in Fall Colors: I am not going to lie, I am new to Essie. I blame thank instagram for introducing me to what my pretty little finger nails have been missing. It was a quick courtship with her before falling madly in love. I was never a nail polish girl. My sisters all are, but I proudly wore naked nails, toes included, (gasp!) for years. I never really saw a point, I have always wanted to spend my limited free time doing other things, cough napping cough, and thought it was a waste of time to paint them only to have them chip and remove the polish in a week (or less). But then, I realized how pretty nail polish is, how much of an expression of the person it is. Its really an intimate thing, I think, seeing what color a girl chooses to paint her nails. So, now I try when I have time, to accessorize my tips with one of the many amazing colors from Essie. They have EVERY color ever, I am not even exaggerating. Its awesome. I am a picky girl, in addition to be a mani newbie, always looking for just the "right" color to commit to. This being said, I have accumulated quite a few "just right" colors from Essie these past few months. However, these two, After School Boy Blazer and Sole Mate are my fall faves. They are rich and dark and remind me of school uniform plaids, which I love, probably because I didn't have to wear a school uniform... Anyways, try them and see for your self!

Okay, well that completes my fall, can't live without them or I would probably die, favorites! Thanks for bearing with me and I promise I will be back with some outfit posts and even a fun collab this week =)

What can't you live without this fall?

Are you addicted to any of my favorites? 

Thanks for stopping by and have a fabulous day!