Feel Good Friday

As much as I love fashion, makeup, jewelry and more, it can all seem superficial at times. As I continue to flex my blogger muscles, I want to share quotes and inspiration that speak to me.

For my first "Feel Good Friday," I think this quote is perfect:

I have been fortunate in life to have people around me that let me be exactly who I am. But it wasn't always that way. I worked hard to weed through friends that were toxic. 

At 26, (with the help of my husband) I have the best group of girlfriends (even guy friends -- but we will leave that for a seperate post) and my family is second to none.

Surround yourself with people that lift you up and don't judge you for being crazy, silly or weird... Being true to who you are is what life is all about. 

xoxo,

Emily

Tuesday's Top Five: Discount Fashion Websites

Every Tuesday, I plan to write my "top" list on selected topics. 

As my first Tuesday, I can think of nothing I know more about than discounted fashion websites. 

My love for fashion is unconditional. There is something about a new outfit that can boost your confidence to another level. There are few things in this world that have that power. I say go ahead and express yourselves through fashion, but there is no need to buy designer duds at full price. While most sites you have to sign up for a "membership," it is 100 percent free to receive the email updates of sales.

If I haven't convinced you with the word "discount," how about avoiding a time suck, aka mall trip. As I get older, my hatred for the mall continues to grow. The waiting in line, dealing with angry customers and sometimes *eek* annoyed store employees doesn't always strike my fancy. I have to be prepared for a mall trip, but what if I just want to browse from the comfort of my couch? That is when I hit up the sites below.

If there is something you are longing for or a designer you have been eyeing, my advice would be to check the updates frequently since the sales are on a first come, first serve basis.

Here are my top five discount fashion websites.

• Gilt.com:   In addition to women's fashion, men's fashion and children's fashion, there is home decor, city deals and travel destinations for a discount. Your mind can certainly wander on this site about how fabulous your wardrobe could be, but some of the deals are still pricey. 
• MyHabit.com: I love this site for multiple reasons. Amazon.com's website so you can use your gift cards to purchase some fantastic items. Recently, I purchased Charles Philip Shanghai flats and a Zac Posen handbag (check out my instagram for a pic of my beauty). I would have never been able to afford a Zac Posen bag any other way. Fabulous!!!
• Ideeli.com: If you haven't used these sites before, this would be the site to start with. Designers like Nine West, bcbg, Halston Heritage and more can be found on this site. I have bought a number of items from this site and they always come in great condition. 
• theoutnet.com: Watch out, fashionistas! You may want to warn your bank accounts. This site is filled with talented designers like Marni, Alexander Wang, Diane Von Furstenberg and more! If you have an upcoming occasion, this site would be my first choice. Beautiful dresses, heels, clutches, and jewelry all ready for your choosing.
• CUSP.com: This is also a retail store that is the Neiman Marcus discounted store. Shopping online or in-person is less stressful than stepping foot in a massive Neiman Marcus. I would recommend this site for shoe, handbags and jewelry since I feel that the clothing is still a little pricey.

These sites are all about the "waiting for the right deal" and aren't ideal for the impulse shopping because you may go overboard. I suggest budgeting and saving for luxury goods. We still need to make our mortage/rent payments, ladies!

Happy shopping.

xoxo,
Emily

Work Appropriate Jewelry

I am a huge fan of necklaces. A stellar necklace can take your look from day-to-night or even make a neutral palette outfit more visually interesting. 

Jewelry is a great way to inject some life into your already built wardrobe without breaking the bank. 

But just because it's on-trend, doesn't mean it's appropriate for certain work environments (Leave your knuckle ring clutches and skulls at home during the 9-5 grind). 

Since I work at an (all the time) business casual office, I tend to express myself through my jewelry while still maintaining a sense of professionalism. Here are some recent examples that I have shared on Instagram with links to where they can be purchased. 

BaubleBar acrylic block monogram necklace in tortoise shell (here), j crew polka dot button down (old) (similar)

Windsor stone drop statement necklace (here), Forever 21 mint sweater (old) (similar)

I will be sharing more of my jewelry collection in the future. Thanks for reading!

Xoxo, 

Emily

My Skin Care Routine

  


 

It is important to be in tune with your skin to make sure that you give it what it needs. Changing up the daily skin care routine during “that” time of the month is just as important as altering it when the seasons change.

During the winter months, I double up on the moisturizer since the Chicago winds are no joke.

Each morning and evening I use Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Facial Cleaner and moisturize with Neutrogena Healthy Skin Rapid Tone Repair Moisturizer SPF 30.

Once a week, I use Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Facial Scrub to make sure that I get rid of the extra makeup and dead skin that builds up throughout the week. It is important not to overuse a facial scrub because it can dry out your skin.

If I am having a breakout, I change up my skin care routine. I wash my face with SheaMoisture African Black Soap and moisturize with Simple Protecting Light Moisturizer SPF 15.

xoxo, 
Emily

Wedding Dream

Hello blogworld, the name is Emily. 

I am a happy Chicagoan that grew up in the Northwest suburbs where my husband and I currently live. We got married in July 2013 and are loving it. 

I thought for a long time about what my first post would be and I can think of nothing better than show you some of my favorite wedding photos.

The Best Day of My Life

That's me and my husband, Scott
Flowers by Town & Country Gardens

Watters Alexandria bridal dress & bought it here | Tuxedo by Jos A. Bank

Our reception venue, Belvedere Banquets | Our colors were coral, navy and grey with elements of chevron

Scott is a huge Chicago Blackhawks fan, so I surprised him with Tommy Hawk

It was everything I had hoped for and more. From the beautiful weather to our friends and family surrounding us, it was more than we hoped for. The best part was.. not even the delicious red velvet cake, but marrying my best friend who has been there for me through everything. Our wedding was spectacular, but our marriage will be something for the record books.

Thanks for reading. Stay tuned for makeup, fashion, interior design, and all things girly about my life to be shared on this blog. We all need an outlet to express ourselves and I am excited to explore that through this site.

xoxo,

Emily