The art to getting what you want

Good morning my lovelies, 

I've been doing some thinking, which is never a good sign.  There are so many people out there who are unhappy with their lives for one reason or another, some even go so far to drag others down with them.  Now this post originated from the idea that it is simple to get a gift you want and love from your significant other as long as you follow a few suggestions.  While I was thinking about it I realized that it goes with anything you face in life. So while I am discussing getting what you want as a gift it is very simple to throw in whatever you want most in life.  

Disclaimer* I was very fortunate to marry a man who pays attention to me and spoils me.  He knows what I like but also listens to when I mention I like something.  I have received a necklace that I didn't remember showing to him, but I loved it and when I asked him how he knew he mentioned me pointing it out to him months before.  Great significant others are not always easy to come by and I realize that my situation is not what everyone's situation is, however, I use many of these methods on my family as well.  

Some people may call me materialistic and I may enjoy things or love certain things I own, but my family and close friends come before any thing ever would.  In all honesty if there were a fire I would make sure my hubby and son were safe before grabbing our important documents, certain photos(wedding canvas, photos of my son when he was born and my wedding books). Also life experiences, such as traveling is a close second.    

However, my family has always been big gift givers and making wish lists was something I had always done.  Seriously I'm going to be 28 and I made a Christmas list, and got the things I wanted most on the list.  

So tip number 1:

Make a list of everything you want.  This is only a rough draft.  

Tip number 2:

Narrow down what is attainable and what is most important.

Tip number 3: 

Figure out how you are going to achieve the top of the list.   This can be challenging.  I am often expected to make large lists and they can't have the same things on it as someone else's list.  

Tip number 4: 

Determine the type of people you must talk to so you can figure out a strategy.  This can be as simple as putting what you really want and including a bunch of expensive things so they are forced to choose what you want.

Tip number 5: 

Strategize!!! While my hubby is simple and I can just tell him what I want, the folks are more challenging.  This is where hinting takes an important role.  Mentioning how something on the list would be perfect for you at this point.  

Tip number 6:  

If this fails return the item and get something you like. 

Daily Look Coco large bag

Good morning my lovelies, 

I hope you are all doing awesome!  Today I have a review for ya'll.

My love for the Chanel jumbo double flap has gone on for quite some time.  I finally decided it was time to find an inspired version of the bag, to tide me over until I can afford the real deal.  Let's face it that will be awhile from now as there are other things higher on my list of priorities.  

I had been eyeing two different Chanel inspired bags.  The Adele from bag inc. and the coco large from Daily Look.  Since I normally go for designer bags and can look up reviews I was hesitant to buy from either but for a month or so was leaning toward bag inc.  I watched YouTube reviews, but one thing that bothered me most was that the reviews were also giveaways.  Which as you know usually means they received the bag for free, and while it may be ok the bigger question would be would you really spend $110 on the bag?  So I held off on anything until the lv price increase. After becoming slightly depressed at the increase I decided to browse bag inc. and Daily Look.  I noticed the Daily Look bag was only $24.99.   I thought that was quite the steal, yet still wanted to search YouTube I finally found what I was looking for.....an honest review.  Saying they couldn't back the company because their giveaway bag was never received by the winner.  That with other reviews of bags taking a long time prompted me to forget about the bag inc adele bag.  

The price tag on the Daily Look Coco bag motivated me to purchase the bag and the added first time buyer discount got me the bag for $25 with shipping.  Once I got the bag I noticed a couple flaws there was a blue paint mark on the back and another silver speck next to the back pocket.  I tried to get it off but to no avail.  I debated if I should send it back or if I could live with it.  I decided that it wasn't super noticeable so I could live with it.  Without further ado the Daily Look Coco Large bag reveal...........  

This black quilted faux leather Chanel inspired bag is a great addition to my handbag collection.  For a quick reference inspired is different than knock off.  An inspired bag has the same style of the bag but does not have any brand logos.  It is also missing some key features that the i like on the jumbo double flap.  Since I'm not about to drop $5G on a bag I am perfectly content with this inspired choice.  I've gotten quite a few compliments on it as well, and as my go to non diaper bag, I carry it occasionally when I am going without my little man.


 
 

I threw on my macaron bag charm to add some color.  The back has a small pocket and I love the chain strap.






 

It is a double flap bag which is ideal for people who don't always close their bags.

 
There is a great pocket for papers when you open the first flap.  I often get random papers that I never know where to put so I can fold them up and throw them back there without having to worry about them being in the way of the main pocket.



The interior has two pockets and a lipstick pocket.  I love the soft suede material used for the inside.  It fits a decent amount of stuff but I did think it might hold a bit more.  I can fit my wallet, coin purse, phone, keys, diaper clutch, and chapsticks. The smaller front pocket I haven't found much use for, but I do like it for the design aspect.

  

So all in all I highly recommend this bag.   It took about a week to get the bag and for the price it's a great classic bag.  If you are looking for a Chanel inspired bag try out the Daily Look coco bag.  It seems like good quality but I will do an update if it falls apart. 

Till next time Lovelies

Spring is Here....Finally

Happy Sunny Day my Lovelies,

So this weather has been crazy and unpredictable.  I have been going back and forth between my Spring wardrobe and my Winter wardrobe.  I'm excited that it has finally warmed up that I am good to go to stick with Spring.  I have come up with a short shopping list of my Spring Must Haves.  So without any more chit chat.....

The top of my list is stock up on my favorite basic T's!  I love the Favorite V-neck T's from the Gap.  They are my go to T when i'm layering.  So of course I have to get a few in black, grey, and white!

 

The beauty of these are they are excellent neutrals for any wardrobe and they aren't expensive.  I'm waiting until they add their new colors for spring before I order any.  I am thinking I need 3 of each color.

Crossbody bags!  

Oh man I can't believe that I have officially jumped on the cross body bag trend.  While I love small bags in certain situations, my go to bags have always been large totes.  While I still love my large totes I am loving the small burst of color that a cross body can provide.

 

I am in love with this Rebecca Minkoff MAC clutch in Twilight Sky.  

 

This Hudson Moto mini in Minty!!! 

 

Marlowe Mini in Peach.  

All of the Rebecca Minkoff bag images are property of the Rebecca Minkoff website.

I can't wait to see them in person to decide which one will be my Spring bag purchase.

Now onto shoes....

 

Dolce Vita Jonee sandal!  Photo by Nordstrom.com

So As for denim I'm definitely thinking of trying some white pants.  I'm loving these distressed bf jeans by gap.

 

I also am considering these high rise black skinnies.  Since I love wearing all black I think a pair of black denim is a must add for my wardrobe.

What do you have on your shopping lists?  I hope all of you lovelies are as excited for Spring as I am!!

Till next time stay fashionable!

How to fake it till you've got it

Good afternoon lovelies, 

Style is something everyone should have but doesn't always come easy.  Sure we all know those people who can tell if something is them or not.  I for one say I won't buy something unless it screams J!  Everything I allow to take up space in my closet screams J.  Your closet is prime real estate so if you have things in there that don't scream you get rid of it!  But J I don't know what screams me?  Well I am here to help you figure out your own style.  While it's true only you can truely determine your own style I can give you tips on how to get started. Seriously no one can tell you what your style is because only you are able to figure it out.  Look through fashion magazines, read fashion blogs, watch fashion shows.  Immerse yourself in fashion, figure out what you like and what you would want to try on. 

Figure out the trends, and figure out what trends you like.  Do not just wear something because it is trendy.

Please please please do not be a walking advertisement for a company.  Logos splashed all over something is not stylish.    In addition don't buy something because "it's some brand".   

Make sure you have a complete look.  Whether you have a signature look or your style is always changing make sure it's complete with a completer piece and accessories.  

Eat right and drink right.  Throw in some exercise.  Your clothes will feel better on when you feel your best.  

Confidence is essential to style.  If you are not confident your outfit won't look good.  Look in the mirror and tell yourself you look good and why. 

Till next times style tips! 

Different types of fashionable/nonfashionable shoppers

Good morning my lovelies,
I have been doing some research which began with the realization that not everyone shops like me!!  So of course I knew this but most of my closest friends were at least interested in fashion.  Of course not everyone is going to be interested in fashion.  Being interested in fashion is different than being interested in shopping.  Being interested in fashion includes keeping up with the trends.  If you don't know what's trending there is a good chance you only like to shop.

So after doing some research and interviews I have found most people fall into the categories below. Your type can also change so you may fall into a few different categories.  
The Anna
Always ahead of the trends, the person you go to for fashion advice.  Considered a fashion icon, has their own unique style and they have no question with what looks good on them and know exactly how to dress their body type.  They always look good.  It's not just the clothing they wear, but also the makeup they wear.  They also have a signature hair style.  Spend their time watching fashion shows to spot upcoming trends.  Have a "uniform" which is their go to outfit.  They look for things they love when they are shopping, and keep in mind trends.  They create style boards.  It's not about what everyone else has but what they like.   

Style Maven
Keeps up with the trends, these people are also the ones you go to for fashion advice.  They are a step below The Anna though they may have some of the same qualities.  They shop a lot, don't always worry about cost and are often brand loyal.  They know what they like and what looks good on them.  You want to borrow their clothes and accessories.  
    
Thrifter
Majority of wardrobe comes from the thrift shop, but still likes to look good.  May or may not keep up with the trends but usually has their own sense of style.  Thrifting gives them the added bonus of coming up with great looks for a lot less.  Uses creativity when creating their looks.  Loves shopping and also has a sense of style. 

Shopper
The girl who only buys what she likes but still looks great.  Knows what she likes and has a sense of what looks good on.  Doesn't pay attention to trends but will buy trend pieces. 

Uninterested Andy
A LA Devil wears Prada an Uninterested Andy does not pay attention to fashion.  They may like to shop but tend to not have any clear sense of style.  They may wear a variety of things that may not be a cohesive look.  Buying stuff on sale is a must as they aren't really interested in staying on top of the trends so spending full price on things is not a necessary thing.  May or may not know what looks good on them.  As they aren't interested in style they don't pay enough attention to what they put on their bodies.  Often ask friends for advice on what to wear.

Fashion What?!?!
Buys clothes only because she has to wear something.  Doesn't pay attention to fashion and doesn't care to go shopping. 


Now we all know people that fit into all of these categories.  Which category or categories do you fit into?  Are you more fashionable or more of a shopper?  My next installment of this will be to help those who want to be in The Anna and The Style Maven categories. 
Until next time lovelies

Thrifting WHAT!!

Good morning lovelies,
I woke up ridiculously early this morning due to a coughing fit sooooo blog post has ensued.
For some reason Mackelmores song Thrift Shop pops into my head whenever I go thrifting.  I always start out super excited, but I really am not a good person to go thrifting.  Buying used clothes just does not appeal to me.  Furthermore have you seen the prices?!?!?   Completely Redonkulous.  I was finding basic t-shirts for $7 I mean really you can find a basic T brand spankin new for $5 when they are on sale. 

So I used to say oh poor people can just go to the thrift store and buy clothes, because well we donate our old clothes so they can buy them for cheap.  Of course after seeing the high prices I just want to say I'm sorry for ever saying this.  Lets face it thrift stores are supposed to be there to sell used clothing to people in need.  Now I don't know about you but I know there is no way that poor people could afford to shop there.  So now I'm going to switch it to shop yard sales you can find good clothes in good condition for much cheaper than at the thrift shop.  Ok ok end of my rant

So back to thrifting......My bestie who absolutely loves thrifting came to visit so of course we went thrifting.  She found three things and I found some kids clothing.  She gave me some tips when it comes to thrifting.  I will say I do look for knitting needles and yarn at the thrift shop and have found great value there. 

Tip #1
Go OFTEN!!
They get new stuff all the time so make sure you go sporadically so that you can comb through everything.

Tip #2
Check all sizes
Not everything is where it should be, so you can find the size you need in a different sizing area.

Tip #3
Check for wear
You are able to find New to like new items, but sweaters are by far the hardest to find.

Tip #4
Sales
Learn when they have sale on things

Tip #5
Give yourself enough time
I have no idea how long we were there but we looked through almost every rack that applied to us.

Tip #6
Give yourself limits $$$
Determine what you think is a reasonable price to pay for something used.  Don't spend more than that.

  Tip #7
Have Fun!!!

I of course grabbed the most ridiculous tutu dress I could find to try on oh and a fur vest.  I'm on the hunt for a fur coat though so a vest just wasn't going to cut it. 

Have you been thrifting lately?  Are you appalled by the pricing?  Or do you have any other helpful thrifting tips, please let me know in a comment below. 
Till next time!