#PackingProblems: Formal Cruise Nights

Okay, let me be honest here. One of my absolute favorite parts of going on a cruise is having an excuse to get dressed up. My extremely boring life does not give me many opportunities to put on a cute cocktail dress and pumps and go out. The most dressed up I ever get is a LBD and my black blazer for work...not too exciting. I wasn't planning on doing this post, but after someone asked me on tumblr what I'm bringing. I decided, what the heck. 

If you read my #PackingProblems: Clothing List, you'll know I decided on two fancier dresses for the two formal dinner nights. But after a quick closet scan a few days ago I realized that I purchased a fairly pricey floor length black dress in hopes of attending a Christmas party in December and knew that it also had to make the trip. (This is why I have packing problems.) 

Typically the dress code for the elegant nights is a cocktail dress or nice skirt and blouse, basically not your everyday dining wear. No jeans, leggings, etc. Some cruises let you get away with that, but I just enjoy the whole aspect of getting all dolled up and fancified. I'd stick with blacks and solid colors because they absolutely make accessorizing that much easier. Dressing for the formal nights doesn't need to be an extravagant expense because usually you'll have something in your closet especially if you're in a sorority where date parties and socials are frequent. If you find yourself craving a new dress or two, head to Forever21 or H&M for an inexpensive option. These places can be hit or miss, but just scour the racks. I found that first dress by accident and it fits wonderfully and will be worn many more times for sure. 

I've broken each of my three dresses down into the dress, shoes, and added purse. Please excuse my super awkward mirror pictures and my messy bun. 

Outfit #1: Black & White BodyCon Dress

Dress- Forever21

Shoes- Steve Madden

Clutch- Charming Charlie

Outfit #2: Little Red Dress aka My Birthday Dress

Dress- Rachel Rachel Roy

Shoes- Steve Madden

Glitter Crossbody- Forever21

Outfit #3: Floor Length Black Dress

Dress- Express

Shoes- Enzo Angiolini

I hope this was super helpful if you're setting sail on a cruise soon and looking for formal night ideas. If you haven't checked out my previous #PackingProblems posts, check them out below!

#PackingProblems- Intro | Clothing | Shoes | Formal Nights | Makeup

xx - Dan

Friday Favorites

HAPPY JUNE LOVELIES!!! When you're reading this, I'll probably be fast asleep after three super duper long days of 7 or 8 hour shifts at work. I always feel more productive when this actually goes up early on Fridays anyway. 

• GT with not so much L- Lately my weekdays have started out with a lot of the Gym. It's my perfect start to the day because I feel more productive and energized. I've been following it up with some tanning because come on who doesn't get a base tan before Alaska...(*crickets*) Okay, I also just like having color with my rocking bod, guys. Just kidding. haha
• Spring Beauty Vox Box- I can't really remember how I found out about this amazing website called Influenster, but I'm so so glad I did. Basically, you get FREE shipments of products that fit your lifestyle to try out and review (similar to BzzAgent, except for it's usually multiple brands of products at once.) I was so excited to get my Spring Beauty Vox Box after my Birchbox was a bust. I was super pleased with the products I received and will be doing an overview of all of them here soon, so look out for that!!
• Arm Parties- Everyone and their mother is into stacking and mixing and matching bracelets and watches right now. I'm planning on bringing just a whole ton of bracelets with my rose gold Michael Kors watch to accessorize on vacay. I've found some of my favorite stacking bracelets at Forever 21 (here, here, and here), Windsor (here, here, and here), and Target (here and here).
• Neon colored jeans- I'm finally finally FINAAAALLY joining the neon jeans party. I'm trading my royal blue and red jeans for these fabulous lemon yellow ones from American Eagle.
• Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15- I fell in love when I bought the Sephora Sun Safety kit and was so excited to finally get my hands on my Sephora VIB Birthday gift of two minis of the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments. They smell amazing like lemonade and they're so moisturizing. They even come in different tints. They're pricey for the full size, but so so worth it. 
• Scarves- I'm a huge scarf girl in the fall and winter, but not so much in the spring and summer. But lately I've been loving adding that finishing touch to an outfit with a fun colorful light feeling scarf. It's a wonderful pop that just completes any outfit. 

What are your favorites this Friday? Leave them in the comments and have a wonderful weekend everyone!

xx - Dan

#PackingProblems: Shoes, Shoes, Shoes

I really don't consider myself a huge shoe girl, but looking at this picture, I may actually be a teensy bit of a shoe girl. Let me remind you that my trip to Seattle/Alaska is only 9 days, yet here are the shoes I'm packing. 8 pairs. I'm justifying this because I like to have options. While I may not have over packed my clothes, I definitely am overpacking my shoes. Sorry I'm not sorry.

(From left to right)

1. Flip Flops: Women's Mossimo Lucita Gemmed Flip Flop in Rose Gold- Perfect for throwing in your carry on in case by some chance your checked bag with all the rest of your shoes gets lost, hanging out by the pool/jacuzzi, going to the spa. So many options
2. Sneakers: Converse Chuck Taylor Low Sneaker in Red- Great casual option for walking around all day, excursions, and it won't matter if they get dirty. 
3. Sperry Top Siders: Sperry Bluefish 2-Eye Boat Shoe- Boat shoes because you're on a boat, duh. But seriously, these are the comfy classically stylish option for walking around and doing touristy things. Perfect day time cruise option.  
4. Rain Boots: Sperry Top Sider Women's Pelican Tall Rain Boot- Because it will be rainy, what better thing to bring than bright rain boots. Comfy, warm, and fun for any outdoor activities such as whale watching or hiking (maybe? haha)
5. Slouchy Riding Boots: The most versatile cold weather shoe I'm packing. These are great to dress up or dress down. They go with everything from dresses to skinny jeans. I'm also wearing them through the airport. 
6. Neutral Ballet Flats: Steve Madden Kadiee in Blush- I love that these are also versatile for daytime and night time. The color is great because it's neutral and goes with so many outfits.
7. Fun Pumps: Steve Madden Dejavu Pump in Gold Glitter- While these aren't practical in the slightest, they're making the trip because they're the shoes that I've been planning to wear with my birthday dress since like forever. These will also be nice to wear on the formal nights on the cruise. 
8. Neutral Wedges: Steve Madden Pammyy Wedges in Black Suede- Wedges are the easier alternative to pumps, but still look dressy for formal nights or going to the clubs at night. I love the black suede because they go with everything. 

I love that all of these shoes offer versatility with wear. I enjoy having options to go with any outfit because I feel like shoes complete any look. Could I survive with less? Yes, of course. If I had to I would remove the Sperrys and the glitter pumps. Shoes take up less room than clothes when the pairs are separated in your suitcase, so definitely consider that. If you missed any of the previous posts, check them out below!!

#PackingProblems- Intro | Clothing | Shoes | Cruise Formal Nights | Makeup

xx - Dan 

#PackingProblems: Clothing List

to 

(oh hey there I am in the mirror!!)

I'm very pleased to be finished with preparing the clothing to pack for my trip to Alaska. If you didn't read the beginning of the #PackingProblems saga, check that out here. I decided that instead of just throwing clothes on my bed or around my room, I would get organized with my simple metal garment rack from Target. 

While I did use Lauren Conrad's Style book for packing inspiration for "Weekend Getaway to Somewhere Cold" (pg. 195), I had a lot of tweaking to do because my trip is 9 days total: 2 days in Seattle and then 7 days on the cruise to Alaska. Google, travel websites, nowhere has been remotely helpful in how to pack besides Hannah and Coral. Both of those ladies have been extremely helpful in what I should expect and plan for!! I know I overpacked, but I think it's more planned preparedness. The weather in Alaska is very unpredictable. I've been advised that the weather can change quickly with the possibility of sporadic rain, ice, mud, and wind. HOW DOES A GIRL PLAN CLOTHING FOR THAT!?  Like this I guess...

Focus: Layers & Neutrals

• 3 Dresses
• 2 T-Shirts
• 4 Cami's
• Peacoat
• Blazer
• Fleece Jacket
• Hoodie
• Cardigan
• Light Sweatshirt
• Chambray Shirt
• 4 Pairs of Jeans 
• Silk/Chiffon Top
• 3 Sweaters
• 2 Pairs of Leggings
• Sweats/Yoga Pants
• Pajamas
• Bikini
• 1 Pair of Shorts
• Undergarments
• Socks

Tips:

• LAYERS! LAYERS! LAYERS! That's one constant thing everyone has told me. Plan for the weather to change, so you'll be able to add layers or take them away. I like using the camis and t-shirts because they're lighter weight and you can add a sweater/cardigan/jacket on top to reach the desired comfort level.
• Stick to neutrals with small pops of colors. I have a red pea coat, a yellow hoodie, a pink sweater, and colored skinny jeans to add some fun to my outfits. Neutrals allow for easy mixing and matching and more outfit options.
• Pack one or two pairs of leggings to wear under jeans when it's chilly outdoors for excursions and whatnot. Also leggings are great for lounging or for night time/dinners as bottoms for sweaters. 
• You don't need as many pairs of jeans as you think. I packed a white pair for daytime meals or night time dressing up. I also have a colored pair for a fun pop. Two pairs of regular denim skinnies is important because you'll have one extra back up pair in case the other gets wet in the rain or muddy during an excursion. 
• Outerwear should be your best friend because of course, let me emphasize again, LAYERS. I have a cardigan and chambray for breezy days on the ship or walking through the ports of call. I brought a pea coat to dress up for day time or night time when it's colder. I also have a light sweatshirt and hoodie to throw over pretty much anything. Also, my favorite pieces of outerwear: a blazer to fancify any look for night time (dresses, sweaters, camis) and a new Northface fleece that's light feeling and easy to pack, but also a great outer layer to keep you warm.
• Only bring the dresses you can change up with accessories. My picks: a simple red strapless (my birthday dress), a little black and white dress, and a fun navy striped dress. (Look out for a post dedicated solely to formal dining nights on the cruise!)

While this may seem like a lot (and quite overwhelming), you'll see how to create and plan multiple outfits. Stay tuned for the next part of #PackingProblems and if you missed any of the other posts check them out below!

#PackingProblems- Intro | Clothing | Shoes | Cruise Formal Nights | Makeup

xx - Dan

Doll House Room Decor: Sneak Peek

EEEEEPS! This is so so so exciting for me, even though it is only a sneak peek. Moving was a nightmare, but falling asleep in this room the past few nights made it well worth it. All of the planning definitely did not go to waste. There's a lot of details that still aren't all there yet, but what's included below is already exactly what I wanted. If you want to see the basic furniture items in my room, check out my haul post.

This is the mirrored chest that is currently holding my TV (until it's mounted on the wall). It's smaller, but very cute and holds exactly what I need: scarves, belts, jewelry. I also found that two tiered jewelry catch all at Target on sale for $10 and it fits perfectly with the aesthetic of the room. 

Oh, this chair is one of my favorite pieces. It's not a stark white, which I actually like. It contrasts really well next to my bed, plus it's the best place to read or tumblr next to the window. I plan on getting a white or turquoise pillow soon, but I'm using my pillow from my last bedroom for now. 

AHHHHHH! Here it is, the very focal point of the entire room. My bed complete with tufted headboard and ruffled bedding/shams. It's obviously the part I've fallen the most in love with. It's everything I hoped it would be and it's like sleeping on a bunch of clouds (feeling and looks wise). I also have that clear ball lamp with a mirrored base on top of my mirrored nightstand.

My walk in closet is seriously life changing. I've always just had a reach in closet and never knew how completely different it would be. I have my clothes organized by dresses, long sleeves, sweaters, jackets, jerseys, tanks, tshirts, jeans, shorts, etc. I also have some of my shoes displayed and the rest hanging in an organizer. I love walking in and feeling like Cher Horowitz or Hannah Montana while picking out what to wear. (Yeah, I just said that...) But seriously, it rocks. 

Stay tuned for a full tour of the room when I feel like it's perfect, so don't hold your breath for it to come soon. haha. I hope you're all having a magnificent week. :)

xx - Dan

The Shops at Target

For some odd reason my body woke me up at 5:30 on Monday morning. Of course I could not fall back to sleep, so I began to do a little online "browsing." I headed over to Target.com to find this:

Naturally, I clicked through to find some of the cutest items I've seen Target ever carry to be honest. It's a very cool concept actually as proven by the commercial. There are a total of five boutiques from around the country featured in this new collection:

Cos Bar - a cutting edge beauty palace from Aspen, CO

Polka Dog Bakery - a variety of doggie treats and accessories from Boston, MA

Privet House - chic and charming home decor finds from Warren, CT

The Candy Store - rare and unique sugary sweets from San Francisco, CA

The Webster - wonderful, bright and colorful clothing/accessories from Miami, FL

While I think that checking out each boutique on their own is an absolute must, I did pick out a few (hundred) of my favorite finds that I may just be ordering or picking up from my local Target. 

Cos Bar Lime Green Nail Polish

 Cos Bar Blueberry Cleansing Towelettes

 Polka Dog Bakery Blue Bowl

Privet House Set of 4 Woven Tumblers

 The Candy Store Razzles

 Cos Bar Green Leopard Tweezers

 Candy Shop Swirl Lollipop

 The Webster Cap Toe Flat in Green/Blue

The Webster Cap Toe Wedge Pump in Natural/Tan

 The Webster Sheath Dress in Deco Print Navy/Melon

 The Webster Jacquard Tunic in Wallpaper Print Cream

 The Webster Beads & Casting Necklace in Silver

The Webster Flamingo Ruffle Scarf 

Privet House Wire Two Tier Tray

xx - Dan

Absent-ish and an OOTD

Hey lovelies! I haven't been here for the past two days unfortunately, but I have been on mine and Hannah's blog: Pretty Chatty. On Sunday, we posted my very very first Outfit of the Day and it was so much fun to write/work on! I'd definitely appreciate it if you went over there and checked it out and then followed! I hope to incorporate more outfit of the day posts over here as well.

I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend/Cinco de Mayo!! Mine was overwhelming with the move, but I'm happy to be kicking my feet up on our new couch watching, The Blind Side, writing this. I can't wait to show you the progress with my room. I'm super excited about it!!! Eeeeeps. :)

xx - Dan

Current Fashion & Makeup - spiration

Surprisingly, one of the main reasons I use tumblr so frequently is for fashion, hair, and makeup inspiration. People I follow are constantly reblogging and posting pictures of celebrities at their finest. I can't even count the number of times that I've been stumped on what to wear one day and headed to tumblr for some inspiration. Just like my "housespiration" folder on my desktop, I also have a "fashionality/beautification," one used to keep pictures of wonderfully put together ensembles and perfectly done makeup.

Since this week is so void in lengthy posts, I thought this would be a perfect time to share a few of the pictures currently peaking my interest fashion and beauty wise. I hope this helps get a sense of my style. Definitely look out on Pretty Chatty for my first Outfit of the Day post where I actually use one of my celeb fashion inspiration pictures to create a perfect springtime outfit! (Disclaimer: I have no sources/credit because as previously mentioned, most pictures are saved from tumblr/pinterest, sorry!!!)

Fashion

Blogger, Danielle Bernstein, makes casual look so put together and pretty. I absolutely adore the mint green flowy sweatshirt and think that adding that to some denim shorts in the spring is a perfect transition.

Of all the Kardashians, Kourtney is my favorite because I adore her style, spunk, and of course her lovely boyfriend, Scott. I've definitely been channeling her style in this picture by pairing neutral chinos with a loose, flowy chiffon top in a bright color.

One of my biggest fashion inspirations is the always classic, Kate. This outfit is a little bolder for her because of the super fun coral pants, but I love that it is still perfectly her with the navy blazer, white top, and gorgeous printed scarf pulling all the colors together. Light scarves are a wonderful finishing touch to an outfit especially in the spring and summer time. 

It wouldn't be a fashion/beauty inspiration post with one (or two) pictures of Lauren Conrad. I don't know how many girls wouldn't call her their style crush. I love the lovely open knit sweater paired with dark skinnies and black pumps. This outfit may be too much for daytime for me, but it's great for a night out on a dinner date, to the movies, or a get together with friends. 

Makeup

Olivia Wilde's makeup looks so natural and flawless, that's what makes it enviable. The most dramatic part of her look is the slightly winged liner, but it's so understatement with a clean face and neutral lip.

Again, Lauren Conrad, always has such fun and classic makeup. I love the update to the classic black winged liner with the usual red lips. I think the pinky/berry lips make this so much more "spring time ready." 

One of my favorite things to do with my makeup wise to make my lash line look super dark and defined just like Taylor Swift has done here. I love the look of having tons and tons more lashes than I do. I think black liner on the lash line and tight lined really makes your look so much bolder even with a simple peachy pink cheek and pinky nude lip.

I hope you enjoyed a peek into what I've been loving lately for my own style!

xx - Dan

Affordable Statement Necklaces under $40

Everyone and their mother has an obsession with statement necklaces this season and therefore posted a blog about it. I've honestly never been big into chucky, obnoxious necklaces. I prefer chunky, obnoxious bracelets all stacked together into an arm party haha. But ever since I saw one episode of ULookHaute's youtube vlogger competition, "Beauty Vlogger Bootcamp" with Elle and Blair where they're both in plain t-shirts with statement baubles, I've been hooked.

I'm always looking for a way to dazzle up the plain t-shirt since I can frequently be found in a white or black scoop or v-neck with jeans. I love the idea of using a statement necklace to make something simple absolutely pop! So far my search for a bold necklace has come up short since I'm trying to stay on a budget. I really don't like to invest in jewelry that I don't think will stay in trend for a long time like larger statement necklaces. There are lots of more expensive options, but not as many cute cheap and not tacky ones. I scoured the mall for cute Danielle like pieces and frequently found ones that were feathered, super tribal, or beaded like a first grade art project at the price I wanted. Boo.

I turned to the internet and here's what I found for all of you lovelies in my boat: looking for a lovely statement piece to add that finishing touch to a simple outfit every day.

From left to right:

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12 

xx - Dan

Favorite Blog Time!!!

On my Crapberry, one of the few cool things I have is a built in "Social Feeds" app with Social media like Tweets and Facebook News Feed Updates in one screen and then the other screen is for RSS. I thought it would be pretty cool to give a shout out to those blogs that I find myself checking and refreshing my app for most frequently. I have quite the eclectic bunch of blogs ranging from the obvious beauty to lifestyle and even some mommy blogs...yep, I'm one of those girls.

1. Cupcakes and Cashmere - If you're not reading this blog, you're crazy. Seriously Emily (we're on first name basis...jk haha) has the greatest variety of blog posts from recipes to fashion to makeup. I love seeing her blog posts pop up because it's always something new and well put together. 
2. Sunday Morning Sugar - I think I've been reading Malori's blog for well over a year and she has never disappointed. She's well on her way to having the next Cupcakes and Cashmere type blog. Her recipes are divine and her style is so freaking cool with proof in her fashion, home decorating, and her cute DIY's. Definitely check her out if you haven't!
3. Amarixe - Allison is one of my favorite youtubers and has one of the most consistently updated blogs. I love that there is a variation between her videos and blog posts. Her posts feature swatches, in depth reviews, nail of the days, etc. It's a definite must read for any makeup addict. 
4. Musings - I'm a little biased since Rachel is my best friend, but her blog is one of my favorites. She is constantly posting what's on her heart and inspiring my faith all the time. She is a talented writer and has such a way with words that makes me feel like she's been reading my mind. (This is how we became so close.) 
5. Her Late Night Cravings - Another one of my favorite Youtube channels is this fabulous pair of ladies: Jayme & Mendi. Hannah introduced me to their blog and channel and I was hooked. They have such in depth and honest reviews with a lot of laughs and fun along the way. They're great to watch and there's always something new and exciting on their blog!
6. Dear Baby - I'm a long time reader of Melissa Jordan's, since before their first child, Everly, was born and they were really just letters to her. I've fallen in love with their family and her honest posts about life, love, and children. One day I hope to have such an optimistic outlook on my life even when it's sometimes a little chaotic and overwhelming.
7. Carly Cristman - Carly is everything I wish I could be. She's in one word, fabulous. If you've never seen her Youtube videos, they're unlike anything I watch. They're so well edited and fashionable and amazing basically. Her blog is definitely a supplement to her Youtube channel with even more style posts, nail posts, reviews, and such. 
8. The Kennedys Amongst the Kardashians - These ladies have one of my favorite "preppy" inspired blogs. It's so unique and there is truly something for everyone. Their outfits are always so wearable and put together and I love their little features like "Mind Your Manners Mondays." It's definitely a girly girl's paradise. 
9. Project Baby - I think I found Kristen's blog through Dear Baby above and fell in love. She's one of the fashionable moms/pregnant women I've ever seen. It's crazy. I love reading her heartfelt posts and seeing her awesome pictures especially of her daughter, Tinsley's nursey. Oh man it's to die. I'm super stoked that she's pregnant again so I can relish in some more months of pregnancy posts. (I'm so creepy, whatever, I love mommy blogs!)
10. Southern Gorgeous - One of my "newest" favorite blogs, but definitely not one of my new favorite girls, since I've known Em for quite a while now. She shares a makeup addiction much like mine and Hannah's and her new blog is all dedicated to that love. I'm super duper excited because I'm constantly going to her for recommendations and such!!! 

Definitely check out all of the lovely ladies above, they're worth a look for sure!!

xx - Dan

Friday Favorites

I've been neglecting my monthly favorites, oh well. Life happens. I'm going to "TRY" to do a weekly favorites gather up post like this one. Life has been extremely crazy for me and I'm working on a few new time consuming projects all while preparing for a move to a brand new house. It's a lot. I'm overwhelmed to say the least, but I'm excited for it all. Share with me your favorites in the comments down below!!

(From left to right)

• Maybelline Illegal Lengths Mascara- One of my absolute new favorite mascaras of all time, it adds fibers to the ends of your lashes to make them look seriously fake and long and fabulous!
• Jewelmint Starbound Ring- I love this rose gold unique ring. It's a definite conversation starter and adds an interesting touch to any outfit. Picture of me wearing it here. (Coupon code for Jewelmint 65% off - JM11)
• Mix No.6 Chanel Floral Wedge Sandal- These were my Easter wedges of choice and they were so comfy and easy to walk in. I got a lot of compliments on them and they're def going to be a staple spring shoe for me. 
• Easter Sunday- I had a wonderful Easter spent at church, then having an amazing time with my family eating and playing baseball (in a dress mind you!). It was relaxing and great. 
• Lush Cupcake Fresh Face Mask- This mask is perfect for those with acne prone/oily skin. It smells like heaven, literally like chocolate cupcake batter and draws out any impurities while softening your skin like crazy! It's a must purchase in the Lush store (not sold online)!
• NYC Smooth Skin Bronzing Face Powder in Sunny- I've never been into matte bronzers until I found this one. It's soft, smooth, and is very natural (not orange at all!!). It's also only $3!!! AWESOME!

xx - Dan