Smile for Hope

This afternoon, my friend Erin and I went to Smile for Hope, an event put on by Sweet Pickle Photography to benefit Safe Journey, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources to women who have been affected by domestic violence.  It was a beautiful day, a great cause, and an excuse to wear one of my favorite pieces of clothing:  a vintage 1950's skirt that I've had for about 10 years.

It was also an excuse to shop local artisans and have some good ol' fashioned girl time.  What a lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon!

This is what I wore:

Vintage 1950's skirt, DKNY tights, Kohls Boots,
New York and Company Tee,
Anthropologie sweater,
lotus necklace and earrings from Dragonflies in St. Augustine,
Michael Kors watch

Snagged this bag at an accessories swap,
the ring is vintage, the bracelet:  $1 at a yard sale.  FRUGAL!

Skirt Detail

This is what I bought:

Sterling Silver Ring
Lovebugs Jewelry and Lipbalm
$8

Anyone else attend Smile for Hope?  What did you buy?  Or better yet, what did you win?  I didn't win any of the raffles, but getting this ring for $8 was enough of a win for me!

I'm a Sucker for Happy Endings

I'm a romantic at heart, so it is no surprise that I have been swept away by the the royal wedding.  I haven't ordered a commemorative tea set or anything, but the little girl inside of me can't help but smile and get a little teary-eyed seeing a regular girl marry a real life prince.  Kate Middleton became a princess, married her prince charming, and was swept away in a horse-drawn carriage to Buckingham Palace.  If that isn't a real-life fairy tale, I don't know what is. It seems Disney had it right all along: "if you keep on believing the dream that you wish will come true."

My mother and Princess Diana were pregnant at the same time; Prince William and I are only a month apart.  My grandmother took this as a sign that Prince William and I should get married.  If only I'd know that all this time I might have actually had a shot!  Ha!  I'm sure having a dukedom and being the future Queen of England is overrated...I digress.

I've always thought Kate Middleton beautiful.  She has become a style icon with her classic and sophisticated taste.  Today, she was a dream in her Alexander McQueen wedding gown.  Simply stunning.  Cinderella has nothing on her:

Brides will be copying this look left and right.
Let the knock offs begin!

I wish all of the best to the royal newlyweds.  We could all use a few more happy endings.  I can't help but feel an air of optimism that Prince William and Kate will live happily ever after and I hope with all my heart they do.  God Bless.

Saving Money Shopping Online

If you read my blog and follow me on Facebook and Twitter, then you know I have a weakness for online shopping.  Thankfully (for the sake of my marriage) I mostly "window shop" but I am also a sucker for a good deal.

I love coupons and deal sites.  I might get a lot of e-mails, but I also get a lot of great deals on stuff.  I almost never pay full price for anything.  I recently discovered ebates:  cash back for shopping online?  Yes please!  I love Groupon, TeamSave, livingsocial, and Roc'n Deals for local stuff.  Mamapedia helps me out with mama related items; Zulily is great for kiddy bargains.  I use Heartsy to help combat my etsy addiction. And then there is Gilt, HauteLook, The Outnet, ideeli, shoedazzle, Rue lala, for my inner label whore.   Most of these sites offer rewards for referrals - so I get TONS of stuff for free!  Got to love that!

My most recent fashion and money-saving favorite is Shop It To Me!  If you feel you are too busy to spend hours searching the Web to find out who carries the merchandise you love, or better yet—who has it on sale then Shop It To Me is for you!  It's a free online personal shopper that saves you money by finding all the sales and special offers for you, saving money and time... now we are talking!   I love it!

What about you?  Do you have a favorite deal site you'd like to share?  Leave it in the comment box with your referral code!   I know we'd all love to check it out!

Spanx You Very Much

Look out, I am about to mention your unmentionables: Spanx. Sara Blakely, the creator of Spanx made it "her mission to make the world a better place, one butt at a time" and I thank God every day she took on such a noble cause.

There are many different brands of shapewear out there, but Spanx is, by far, the best on the market. All the celebrities wear them - so even if you can't have their personal trainers and macrobiotic diets, you can wear their girdles! I discovered Spanx a few years ago and am not sure how I ever lived without them. They are miracle workers: getting rid of lumps, bumps, and pantylines to give you a smoother, firmer look.

I went to SoLia Boutique in Pittsford today to pick up my Skinny Britches, Spanx's line of summer shapewear. I already have what I refer to as my "industrial strength" Spanx, but they are a little much for the warmer months. Today's 80 degree temperatures prompted me to make a beeline to SoLia for my skinny britches!  They have some adorable dresses in right now, so you might want to take a look at those while you are there. You'll need something fabulous to wear over your Spanx, right?  If you're a girl on a budget, your Spanx will be the best $42 you ever spend.  I mean, why spend a fortune on a new wardrobe, when you can look thinner and smoother in the one you already have? It's a no-brainer!

So if you are ready to say "bye bye muffin top," "au revoir cellulite,"and "get lost VPL," get your Spanx at SoLia Boutique on Monroe Ave in Pittsford.  And if you needed some addition motivation, their Royal Sale starts tomorrow:

I am totally geeking out over the royal wedding.  Anyone else with me?

Don't live in Rochester? That's ok! Thank God for Amazon:

What are you waiting for? Go get your Spanx! Dare to dimple no more! Happy Smoothing!

Bad for Me - Good for You?

So, I got my beautiful Matthew Williamson maxi dress today  (the one I won for $2 at The Outnet's sale) and its gorgeous, so much prettier in person, super comfortable, and WAY too big for me.  Ugh!  I'm so sad!

I can't believe I have to part with this :(

Back

Button Detail

See, I've lost weight.  I used to wear a size 8, but now I'm more like a size 4 (at least in dresses)- and for whatever reason can't seem to grasp that fact when buying clothes.  While this is bad for me, it has the potential to be really good for you (especially if you wear a size 8 to 10 US) because (drumroll please) I am selling it on ebay. Yay!  The dress retailed for $1270.00; I started the bidding at $99.99 and included a buy it now option for $399.99.

You can view the listing here:  Buy my dress!

Please forward this to any of your friends who might be interested.  It is a beautiful dress and deserves a good home with an owner who can actually wear her.  I'll be sure to keep you posted as to when she sells and for how much.  Happy bidding!

April Showers

Ah yes, back to Rochester weather.  Thankfully, I really love my bright yellow Target rain boots.  I bought them 4 or 5 years ago for $16.99 and get complimented on them every time I wear them.  They are a pop of sunshine on an otherwise dreary day, and best of all:  they keep my feet dry!  Here is my go-to outfit for combating April Showers:

Hoping those May flowers and sunshine are on the way - if not, I might need to add these babies to my rainy day repertoire:

Burberry
$195

What about you?  How do you look fab while staying dry?  And more importantly, would you spend $200 on rain boots?

Happy Easter!

Hi everyone!  Taking the weekend off for Easter.  Actually had our big family dinner today, as we will be traveling all day tomorrow.

That's right, I own bunny ears
and I'm not afraid to wear them.

I'll be back with more fun, fashion tidbits on Monday.

Have a great weekend,

Jenn

Geek or Chic?

I gave high waisted jeans a test run the other night.  It was like 8th grade all over again:  the last time I tucked in a shirt and belted pants that high I was wearing Bongo size 00 extra long.  Ah, those were the days.  Like Justin Timberlake said, "what goes around, goes around, goes around, comes all the way back around" right?

Walmart OP sunglasses, GAP shirt, Signature by Levi (Walmart) jeans,  Bandolino (TJ Maxx) sandals, JCrew belt

True Story:  This car was my high school graduation present.  Then my parents decided it was "more of a Florida car" and took it back.  Nice huh?  Guess I wouldn't have much use for it and its cloth top during Rochester winters though...
I digress.

I know the trend is to wear them a touch higher, but I need to take baby steps.  I've been wearing my jeans on my hips for over a decade now.  These things take time.  Maybe next time I'll do a wider leg.  Like these 7 For All Mankind Georgia Trouser jeans that cost a little more [sarcasm] than my Walmart pair:

Now, I love the nautical stripes on my top, but as for the jeans, I just can't decide, are high waisted jeans geek or chic?

Why?

I just got back from a LONG day at Disney World.  I'm exhausted and completely incapable of writing a meaningful blog post.  I'll come up with something good tomorrow I promise!

For whatever reason, Disney always seems to be ripe with fashion faux pas; today was no exception.  I could probably write a book with the amount of fashion atrocities I witnessed today and Disney employees were some of the worst offenders.  Here is a perfect example:

Disney Parking Attendant 

The girls had on knee length yellow coolots.  I can't.  Why Disney?  Why?

2 Lovely Boutique in Webster

Just bought a Groupon for 2 Lovely Boutique in Webster.  I've actually never been there, but if you want to get me in the door, just offer a $30 gift certificate for $15!  I couldn't buy it fast enough.  This girl loves a good deal.  Hey, any excuse to shop, right?

I checked out their Web site; their motto is "Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Jeans" - sounds like my kind of place!  They carry Joes Jeans, Sweet Pea, Language, M M Couture, Miss Me, Claire Blu, Erge Designs, Soul Revival, Love This Life, T-Squared, Gypsy Daisy, and more.  Can't wait to check out this boutique when I get back from vacation next week.  Who's coming with me?

Remember, the offer is only good today - so act fast, you don't want to miss out on this deal!  Get your $30 gift certificate here:  Let's Shop! 

Don't Hate Cuz Ya Aint (in Florida)

This morning I left the kiddo with grandma and grandpa and went to VIP Nails in Palm Coast for a glorious pedicure.  They need to open a salon in Rochester; they take their time (none of that get in and get out nonsense), have a friendly staff, and quite possibly the best massage chairs ever.  Oh and they only charge $25 for a pedi!!!!  Ah Florida, how I love thee, let me count the ways!  I keep asking myself why I don't live here, but alas that is not the point of today's post.  I want to talk about blue:  the top trending nail color for pedis this spring.  Since I was already wearing a blue dress, I thought what the heck, let's give it a whirl.

That's me wearing a blue maxi dress from Your Best Friend's Closet, thrifted bag,
American Eagle sandals,  Aldo sunglasses, Walmart hoop earrings, and a Movado watch.

Rochester friends, this is called sunshine.

And these are my very blue toes.
OPI Blue My Mind

I'm not sold.  I don't love it; don't hate it.  I'm apathetic.  I do think I would much prefer more of a navy.  Like Eva Mendes here:

Gorgeous!

What do you think?  Is blue polish a do or a don't?  And since VIP Nails is over 1,000 miles from home,  where is the best [read: cleanest] place to get a pedi for $30 or less in Rochester?  Ok...go!

Pissing off PETA

Traveled to Florida with the fam this morning.  Was up at the ungodly hour of 4:30; flew to Cleveland, then Jacksonville, then headed to the Alligator Farm in St. Augustine.  You see, my almost two year old LOVES alligators.  He's been excited about seeing the gators for weeks now.  He had a blast!

Colten and the Gators

As for me, I definitely enjoyed the break from Rochester weather, but when I looked at these scaly creatures, I kept imagining them more like this:

Brooks Brothers $8000.00

and this:

Manolo Blahnik $14000.00

Is that wrong?  Am I a terrible person?  I can't help it; they make really cute bags and shoes.

I would like to offer my sincere apologies to PETA and alligators everywhere; lucky for you, the only alligator I can afford is the rubber one I bought in the gift shop.  

Just Say "No"

Apparently jumpsuits are "in."  Seriously?  Who makes these rules?  It's hard to find an item of clothing more universally unflattering than a jumpsuit.  Yet, they are everywhere.  Being promoted as on-trend, fashionable clothing, and the perfect addition to your spring and summer wardrobe.  Do not be fooled. Unless you are a toddler, you should never, under any circumstances, wear pants that are attached to your shirt.  Please.  Don't do it.  Just say "no."  I beg of you.

If  Kim Kardashian and Heidi Klum (both gorgeous) can't pull it off, neither can you.

Nothing like adding girth to your hips and thighs.

This would be bad without the turtle neck - but that just throws it over the edge.

Oh and while we are on the topic of saying "no,"  why don't you say "no" to those shorty shorts that are everywhere.

She has a great body - I just don't need to see this much of it.

I have underwear bigger than most of the shorts in the mall.  I have no desire to see your butt cheeks, camel toe, or cellulite, so please cover up for the love of God (just not with a jumpsuit).

Thanks!

New Obsession: Dado Boutique

Finally got in to Dado's new store in Clover Commons on Monroe Ave.  It is beautiful!  I can't believe I had never shopped there before.  The owner is a doll!  I had a fabulous time shopping; it felt like I was hanging out with an old friend. 

Oh and what a selection!  She carries a variety of brands at a variety of price points.  I loved everything, but finally decided to try on these three dresses:

Everything was beautiful.  Unfortunately, I'm a mom on a budget and could not buy everything.  I finally decided on this MM Couture by Miss Me One-Shoulder Floral Dress.  The multicolor floral print vertical corkscrew ruffles on the skirt are so pretty. Love that it can be tied in the back to create an almost cap sleeve effect, so I'll be wearing mine a little different from the model below.  I like it tied a little looser so that it covers my one shoulder.  

$88  Dado Boutique

Side view

I can't wait to wear it.  It will be making its debut in NYC in a few weeks with dark tights (it's short!) and sling back peep toes that I got at the Nine West Outlet for $12.50.  When I tried it on for my husband he said: "This might be your best dress yet."  That's all the feedback I need!   I'll be sure to post some pics of my night out on the town in my new dress from Dado!  Stay tuned.

Outnet $2 Birthday Sale Victory

The Outnet $2 Birthday Sale was by far one of the most exciting shopping experiences of my life.  I (of course) made a virtual beeline for the bags (which were selling out faster than I could click) then I went for shoes  (same result).  So my third plan of attack was dresses, fell in love with a Valentino gown:  sold out.  Then I spotted this Matthew Williamson printed cotton maxi dress.  I am loving maxi dresses right now and this one is just so wearable.  It my hysteria I can't remember the original retail price, but it was somewhere around $1200 - and I paid $2 for it!  There was even free shipping!  This high should carry me through the rest of the weekend.

Big thanks to all of you who registered to win a ticket to the sale with my link.  I only earned a ticket because I was a top 200 sharer, so I have all of you to thank.  I can't wait to get it and try it on - keep your fingers crossed that it fits.  If not, ebay here we come!

I won! aaaaahhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!

OMG!!!  Can't wait!!!!  Have to figure out what I want to buy!!!!  This is CRAZY!

http://www.theoutnet.com/

ROC the Runway

Who?  Rochester’s Official Connection (R.O.C) & High Society are combining forces to present an ultra- fabulous fashion show entitled: ‘Roc the Runway’

What?  The event will begin with a pre cocktail hour, cocktails and couture, where VIP guests and designers can mix and mingle. The main event, the fashion viewing, will be directly after the cocktail hour which starts at 7pm. Rochester’s own R&B sensation Toshman ‘T-Dash’ Powell will also be hosting the show. In addition to Mr. Powell, reality TV star Jennifer Williams from VH1’s ‘Basketball Wives’ is confirmed to be a guest host during the show.

Where?  This event will be held at the whimsical Memorial Art Gallery where exclusive Rochester designers will be showcasing their collections.

When?  This Sunday, April 17 th 2011 @ 7 - 9:30pm

Why?   Fierce Boutique, R.O.C & High Society’s mission for this fashion show is simple; to provide an extravagant and exclusive fashion viewing inspired by and showcasing different genres of music. The featured Rochester designers will be Nathaniel Johnson, Raul Siro Ferreira, Reckless Necklace and Drew Mogul. This will be an event that you don’t want to miss. Proceeds of the ticket sales will be going to The Women’s Foundation of Genesee Valley.

How much?   Tickets for this event will be priced as follows: $20 Balcony, $30 seated, $50 VIP (sold out). Get your tickets here: Zvents.

Sounds like a fabulous way to spend a Sunday night. I am a girl on a budget, so I think I'll be opting for the cheap balcony seats. Who's coming with me?

How Now Eyebrow?

When Bad Brows Happen to Good People:

My Eyebrow History in Pictures

Au Natural Circa 1997

Ode to McDonalds' Golden Arches Circa 2000

Not Quite Right Circa 2002

Finally!  Brows to Make Anyone Proud 2006-Present

Eyebrow maintenance should be a key element of any beauty regime, but unfortunately so many women either neglect or abuse their brows.  Eyebrows frame your eyes and can either enhance your natural beauty or detract from it.  I allowed my eyebrows to sabotage my face for years, but no more.

For me, it has been a long, rough rode, to a well-sculpted brow.  I rocked the natural look, spent years trying to tweeze them myself, and had a few unfortunate incidents at nail salons.  One time I walked out with one short fat eyebrow and one long skinny one.  It was horrid.  I finally found someone who sculpted my brows beautifully and couldn't believe the difference in my appearance.  I was so impressed, I drove 35 minutes each way for years to have my brows done.

Now that I live in Rochester, I go to Brow Diva in Pittsford.  I still remember my first appointment with Ryan Grevell.  He waxed, he tweezed, he sculpted, and handed me the mirror.  They were perfect!  Hallelujah!  

Ryan is not only a well-skilled brow sculptor, but also fun and easy to talk to (not to mention he has the patience of a saint when I bring my rambunctious, almost two-year-old to appointments).  I refer all of my Beauty by Jenny clients to him and can not say enough good things.

So, if you feel your brows could use some professional help, please call Brow Diva to schedule your appointment with Ryan.  I've learned that when it comes brows, it is worth paying a little extra to have the best of the best.  Think about it:  you wear your face every day and deserve to be the most beautiful "you" you can be.  Bad brows can happen to good people, please don't let them happen to you.

Haute Look

Just discovered HauteLook a Web site that does 48-hour sale events with the world's top fashion, accessories, beauty, kids and home brands. We are not talking chump change either ladies, HauteLook offers discounts of 50 to 75 percent off!

Here is just one example of the fabulous deals on this site.  How would you like this Adrienne Vittadini hobo bag for  $112?  It retails for $448... that's 75% off!!!!

Last Call by Neiman Marcus the same bag on sale for  $338!
I think I like HauteLook's price better.  How about you?

Since the sales only run for two days and quantities are limited, you need to act fast, which unfortunately may result in impulse buying.  However with these prices who really cares?  You could probably buy this bag, wear it a few times, and resell it on ebay for more than you originally paid for it!  (I just checked and saw one listed for $360!)

I know its only Tuesday, but finding this site might just end up being the highlight of my week.  I'll keep you posted.

YBFC Is Today's Living Social Deal!!!!

Your Best Friend's Closet Consignment Boutique in Fairport is today's LivingSocial deal.  I already bought mine.  I mean 52% savings somewhere I shop all the time?  Come on now.  Would you like $25 worth of clothes for $12?  Get the deal here.

For more on YBFC, see April 5th's post "Is It Summer Yet?"

Now go grab the deal!

Jewelry by Artwark - love love love!

I was flipping through the Pennysaver the other day and stumbled upon an add for this beautiful necklace - just in time for Mother's Day (this is a hint Steve):

Mother's Love Necklace
"Celebrating the special love Mom has for each of her babies"
$28-$33
Custom made to represent her family!  In silver, gold, or antiqued brass with turquoise or white rice pearls.

I love it:  love the design and the sentiment behind it.  It's made by Artwark and handcrafted right in Mendon. Since I loved this necklace so much, I wanted to see Artwark's other work, so I went to their Web site,  clicked the etsy link, and it was over:  I want EVERYTHING.  The jewelry is versatile, wearable, and all the pieces are inspired by nature, culture, religion, and love.  Its simplicity, vintage vibe, and general aesthetic is beautiful.  I'm hooked.  Now I just need to decide what to buy first!

You absolutely must view the complete collection when you have a minute, but for now here a few of my favorites:

$29.99 

$26

$39

$14

$9.50

$16

Ugh!  How am I going to choose?  

As if the beautiful, reasonably priced jewelry isn't enough of a reason to shop, Artwark is offering $5 off your order through May 10.   Use the code "SAVE" in the message to seller in etsy's checkout to receive an auto refund.   And tell her the fashionista sent you!   Happy shopping!  

www.artwark.com

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtWark

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jewelry-By-Artwark/99584937900

Top 10 Spring Trends

So I've been salivating over nordtrom.com - I know, I know... there is no Nordstrom in Rochester.  (Don't remind me).

Ah but have no fear upstate ladies,  springs hottest trends, can all be found right here in Rochester.  You needn't look farther than Eastview Mall or your favorite boutiques.  And if you MUST shop Nordstrom, at least do it through ebates and get 5% cash back.  Plus right now they are offering a $5 bonus just for signing up!

Without further ado, here are the Top Ten Spring Trends featured on www.nordstrom.com (with a little narrative from yours truly)

1.  Pale Neutrals 

Muted colors are all the rage.

2.  The Fit-And-Flare Dress 

Classic, easy, and figure flattering.

3.  The Kitten Heel

A little height without the leg cramps.

4.  The Romantic Blouse

Femine, pretty, and versatile:  can be worn with anything.

5.  The Satchel 

Carries everything you need but looks polished with its clean lines.

6.  Flared and Wide Leg Pants

Don't worry you can still wear your skinny jeans, but consider investing in a pair of these 70's throwbacks to add some versatility to your wardrobe.

7.  Maxi Dresses and Skirts

Simple, easy, breezy style.

8.  Statement  Rings

Nothing like a honking big ring on your finger...that's what I always say.  Note:  tacky is not the statement you want to make.

9.  The Minimal Jacket

Adds structure and class to any look - but be careful,  fit is EVERYTHING.  If it doesn't fit, you run the risk of looking frumpy.

10.  Modern Oxfords

Fun and retro but dangerous, these can look super geeky if paired with the wrong look.  There is a reason you've never heard of "nursing home chic."

So now that you know whats "in" which trend(s) are you most excited to rock this spring?  

I for one, would love 

Antropologie Mompos Dress
$228.00
A perfect fit-and-flare dress

and

Paola Ferri Oxfords
$69.95