Gift Guide #4 ~ Kate Spade for All!

I am pretty sure if I only received presents from one store this year, Kate Spade would be the place for me this year.  Every single item I am head over heels in love with!  And if you follow Kate Spade on Twitter or Instagram you would see all the fabulous happiness this company spreads to all around!

If you are still stumped on what to get that special lady or bestie in your life, look no further than below!

all wrapped up cards/live colorfully borough coasters/bellevax fingerless gloves/cascade bib necklace

putting on the ritz earrings/this is the year bracelet/cheers necklace/pavé surround large stud earrings

sparkle summit brynn/charm shoe/sparkler gia/gold playing cards (* pretty please santa)

Any of the goods above is sure to make your loved one overjoyed!

Headgear to help your Rearview

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I like to pretend that I look as lovely and perfect as this lady above on the treadmill at Circuit Works whenever I workout.  However, last night when I wasn't paying attention and hopped on the treadmill I ended up looking more like this...

No joke, totally ate sh*t last night on the treadmill in front of (luckily) only 10 people.  Just because I wasn't paying attention.  Be careful people, the treadmill really will kick your a**!

Back to the point of this post...

Whenever I work out, I need my hair COMPLETELY off my face/neck.  These people at gyms who work out with their hair down I will never understand.  Maybe it's because I sweat a lot and end up looking a tomato, but every strand of my hair needs to be tightly tied, pined and whatever else so that it is not in my face. 

I have baby fine hair that is slippery as all get out and requires a ton of hairspray to hold curl and a special headband to keep it locked in for my workouts.  And so I bring you to my favorite headband and a review of other headbands that actually work, and are guaranteed to keep you looking somewhat cute and put together. 

Thank you Miss Kord for being a fabulous friend and picking up this Braided Headband from lululemon for me.  This sucker is TIGHT!  It holds my hair in without any fidgeting and is the real deal folks.  In fact you shouldn't purchase any other headbands until you buy this one.  It really is a workout changer my friends. 

I picked up my own lululemon Slipless-Headband and like it ok.  It works pretty well and averages 1 or 2 pushes or secures during my workout.  It is a little wider than I prefer but leaves little to no indent in my hair so I am able to run around town without headband crimp.  It's alright as an alternative but I don't think I will purchase again. 

The Lucy Power Double Strap Headband is my 2nd favorite after the lululemon braided goddess.  The one has little grippers that stick to your hair and it is available in a variety of colors and the double band helps keep my hair in tact.  I generally only have to adjust once during the workout with this guy and I could see purchasing a few more in different colors. 

The first headband I bought for working out was the American Apparel Shiny Headband.  This one doesn't stay in that well at all, but it is by far the cutest of the bunch.  I use this one when I absolutely have no other headbands available and it requires the extra help of bobby pins to keep it in place.  A good option is to use this pretty headband to cover the indent of the braided headband after your workout!

Do you have any headbands that you think are the bees knees and stay put after a hard workout?  I would love to hear your suggestions! 

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Trendy Tights!

1/2/3/4/5

Today was the first day of the season that I pulled out a pair of my trusty polka dot black tights, and I have to say I am quite happy with the results and received numerous compliments at work (yay!). 

Tangent much...my whole point was that every lady should have at least 2 or 3 pairs of tights for those cold days that have already arrived or are coming soon to a city near you.  I love the playfulness tights add to any outfit and it reminds me of my youth and love for tights as a young girl. 

I love the variety of styles out there and there is just about something for every girl, whether you like to play it safe with solids, bright, or trendy with those leopard lace tights.  Everyone can wear tights!  All of the tights above are under $15, so you won't feel guilty if you snag, poke a hole or rip them after a couple wears. 

And just because I mentioned it, and have never actually done an OOTD, here you go!

(close up so you can see the tights)

(please excuse my terrible background)

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Orange Crush

As I look at the window and am greeted with fog, it has suddenly dawned on me that fall has arrived and with fall comes new scents, flavors and a color palette.  And since we are in the month of October (and I did just return from Amsterdam where the color of the country is orange) I decided I should really try to incorporate the color that I despise so much into my wardrobe. 

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clutch, watch, bangle, ray-bans, earrings, iphone cover, gloves

I think the easiest way to incorporate orange for me would be in accessories.  Accessories allow you the luxury of being bold and bright without being too trendy or over the top.  I am loving all these varieties of orange goodies but am most definitely favoring the iPhone cover, as I am about to make the switch from blackberry to iPhone.  It's a little bit edgy, fun, punk and perfect to set me apart from other iPhone users. 

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sweater, blouse, ruffle top, pumps, dress, scarf

While the easy and safe route would be accessories, I would like to own one orange staple item.  However my fair skin and light hair are not complimented by orange.  So the trick is to find the right orange for you!  For me, I veer towards the coral and the red-orange options.  But if you are gonna go full out orange a scarf or shoes would be another great choice. 

This fall I am really going to try face my fear of looking like a pumpkin and try out this orange trend.  With options like the ones above I am pretty sure I can't go wrong!  What are your thoughts on orange? 

Gung-ho or steer clear? 

Summer Essentials Series ~ Lovely Happenings

Today's fabulous collection is brought to you by the darling Megan from Lovely Happenings.  Megan is always so cheery, fun, light and stylish and always sharing items that I absolutely must have!  This girl holds a special place in my heart with her appreciation of WSU (her sister goes there) and you can't help but leave her blog in a better mood after you visit it.  So without further ado...

Hello, Yellow Brick Blog readers! I am Megan from LovelyHappenings and I am so happy Lyndsy asked me to help out with my Summer Essentials of 2011. I long for the sunny, dry weather in the summer. Portland's rain can get really painful after a while. I take advantage of the sun while I can and these are my essentials this summer... What one item can you not be without this summer?

My maxi dress! At first, I wasn't sure about this trend and how it'd look on me. So I bought a simple, olive-green racer back maxi dress from Forever21 to see how I liked it (sadly, my particular one is no longer available). I can basically say that I am obsessed with my maxi dress now. I need more for my collection! If you haven't tried this trend yet then I suggest you get your little rear end to the store. Casual, totally chic and awesome for a great summer look.

Maxi Dresses by lovelyhappenings featuring a gray dress

What are you craving for summer 2011?
A longer summer! Does that count? No, I'd just really like more time away from work and time with my boyfriend instead. I want to go camping, go on bike rides, walk to the farmers market, concerts outside, BBQ, eat loads of gelato, and trips to the coast with my boy.
 What is your essential summer song of 2011? Well, I can always listen to a John Mayer or Dave Matthews Band song but this year, Mat Kearney is stealing the show. His new album, Young Love, is awesome. The single "Hey Mama" totally puts a smile on my face and I can't help but rock out to this song. Enjoy!

 

 Thank you Megan for sharing your summer picks!  I just love your collection of maxi dresses and jewelry and the pic of you and bf is soo cute!  Be sure to head over to Lovely Happenings for straight up goodness. Check back tomorrow for some more summer essential goodies!

Summer Essentials Series ~ Live.to.the.point.of.tears

Today B from Live.to.the.point.of.tears shares her summer faves.  I have been reading B's blog for 2+ years now and I can honestly say the girls honesty, truth and zero BS helped me get through a tough breakup.  She is a drop dead beautiful girl with incredible wit, charm and an infinity for her soon to be husband that I know admire (and I am pretty sure most girls do too) and desire.  She has killer clothes, drinks Jack Daniels,  reads those books everyone should read and writes with passion.  Basically, she just plain kicks ass.  Please do yourself a favor and immediately head over, bookmark it, follow her, whatever works best for you.  I promise you will be so happy you did. 

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

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A straw fedora. Perfect to put over your messy-pretty beach or lake hair. This, a bikini, cutoffs and Havaianas are all you need in LA.

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

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Dinner and cocktails at Manhattan Beach Post! J surprised me with a reservation -- we couldn't get in until 9:30 pm but I could instantly see why. Decor is rustic but upscale, atmosphere is lively with lots of "family" seating, dishes are all small plate-tapas style -- perfect for a date. The menu changes nightly and the chef writes in the dishes he's offering that evening, which are based on what's farmers market-fresh and local. They brought us our menus in a little brown envelope with our last name on it, which won me over from the start. Oh, and the custom craft cocktails were heavenly and refreshing, and everything we ate was divine. I'm dreaming of the Blistering Green Beans right now ... If you're in SoCal, hit me up and we'll go.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Anything from Ellie Goulding's CD "Lights" ... perfect music for making out, dancing and getting ready with girlfriends, or cocktails with your man. What more do you need? Or, I'll take "You and Tequila" -- Kenny Chesney & Grace Potter. Her voice is heavenly and it's such a sexy summer song. The video is rad, too.

Thank you so much B for sharing your picks for the second year in a row.  Ever since you blogged about MBPost I have been dying to go!  Perhaps we can finally grab a drink there?? Love Ellie's voice and just listened to "You and Tequila" the other day and instantly loved it.  Country music and summer go hand in hand for me. 

Tomorrow my roomie Avery will be sharing her essentials to close out the week!  It's almost Friday!!

Summer Essentials Series ~ La Vie...J'aime

Happy Hump Day!  Today the awesome Jaime from La Vie...J'aime joins us to share her summer essentials.  I have been following Jaime's blog for 3+ years now and the blog is just overall awesome.  My favorite feature is her Friday Faves and just about anything she shares.  This Boston local is always attending fantastic events and sharing all things wonderful.  If you aren't already following, be sure to sign up! 

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

My iPhone — from finding out the UV index with the SPF app, to communicating with friends in a group text, to posting my fave pics on Facebook, I cannot be without it!

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

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A tan! Well an airbrush tan to be specific. I burn very easily and am in 3 weddings this summer. I decided to get airbushed tanning done and love the results—easy & healthy! If you are in the Boston area, try Perfect Tan.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

"Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO

Thank you so much Jaime for being part of the series again!  I am one of the few people I think who still operates on a blackberry, but I have an Ipad and love all the goodies that come with it.  That SPF app sounds right up my alley, may need to speak to B about downloading it!  And a perfect spray tan is the best!  Healthy and glowing my absolute favorite! 

Tomorrow, I am excited to share Live.to.the.point.of.tears summer list!  Don't miss it!

Summer Essentials Series ~ The Look 4 Less

Today's summer essentials comes from the uber talented Jen over at The Look 4 Less.  One of my fave blogs for a long, long time.  Jen has an incredible skill of finding any look you desire (whether you saw it in your JCrew catalog, on Rachel Bilson or some other fabulous celeb) and finding a damn near replica for a lot less.  I mean it is seriously crazy how she can literally find anything for less.  My only problem with her blog is I absolutely want to own EVERYTHING she posts and it may not be the best thing for my wallet...

Jen shares her summer picks below and let me just point out that she does not disappoint with her style and price points!

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

Right now I'm loving cat eye sunglasses, like this great pair from Forever 21. They add a glamorous feel to my summer uniform of a tshirt and shorts/skirts.

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

White Jeans. I haven't taken the plunge because I'm one of THOSE people, you know - the one that always ends up ordering spaghetti or BBQ and then manages to spill on my new white pants.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO - I always have to turn the radio up when I hear this song!

Thank you so much Jen for taking time out of finding all sorts of fashionable frugal frocks and sharing your summer faves!  I am desperate for a new pair of white jeans (mine may or may not be a little tight) and adore the LMFAO video, who knew they could dance so well?  Be sure to follow The Look 4 Less and be prepared at all the wondrous items you will be introduced to!

Tomorrow Linley from Dwelling & Telling will be sharing her summer essentials!

Summer Essentials Series ~ Sweet Nothings

I feel so lucky and happy to have Danielle from Sweet Nothings back for a third year sharing her essentials.  I also feel lucky that I can call Danielle (as well as the gorgeous Kristen) my friends since we have actually met in person and enjoyed lunch.  Danielle is a gorgeous gal with the absolute best style and always showcasing beautiful fashion, hair, accessories on Sweet Nothings.  Oh you want more, she also shares fantastic quotes, home decor and her loveable sweet George dressed in adorable holdiay appropriate gear.  Still don't believe me?  Go see for yourself, you will surely become a daily reader like me all those years ago... 

Hello YBB readers! I am so happy to be back for the third year to share my Summer Essentials with all of you...you can check out 2009 and 2010 as well...

*What one item can you not be without this summer?*

This summer I cannot live without my favorite cat eye sunglasses. Mine are from Urban Outfitters(and only 10!), but you can find them anywhere, My motto when it comes to sunnies is The Bigger the Better, and these are no exception.

*What are you craving for summer 2011?*

Summer 2011 has been an interesting one thus far, full of a lot of changes and decisions on my end. So, what am I craving? For it all to work out how it supposed to. And for me to just relax. And to enjoy a cocktail or two while it all falls into place..like this one featured on The Glitter Guide.

*What is your essential summer song for 2011?*

Ok, this was a lot harder than I thought to choose a song. Bc I currently have been listening to "Give Me Everything" since February, so I don't consider it a summer song, but man everytime it is on the radio(which seems like every 5 min in LA) I dance in the car. or my room. or in my cube.  I also am obsessed with Katy Perry's "Last Friday Night" but am really embarrassed by that-and I mostly think it is because it describes college.. So, I went with another song from Planet Pit, which is such a fun cd that just makes me want to dance on every track.  "Shake Senora Remix" featuring T-Pain, Sean Paul, and Ludacris will get you ready to go out dancing with your girlfriends.

I couldn't agree more about the sunglasses and that sparkletini looks just perfect for summer time!  And you know that I just adore me some pitbull!  Shake Senora is one I haven't heard yet, and will be downloading immediately!   A huge thanks again to Danielle for her awesome lists that just keep getting better!  I cannot wait for our next lunch and shopping excursion. 

Tomorrow my sorority sister Emily will be back with her summer list!

I'm Loving' It

The new Starbucks "Very Berry Hibiscus" Refresher is muy bueno!  I was very hesitant to try this coffee drink that tastes nothing like coffee, but let me just tell you it is so delish.  A grande drink only has 70 calories and it contains freeze-dried berries as well.  Once I finish my beverages, I fill my cup of with water and enjoy my "spa" water at my desk.  If you are lucky enough to have them sampling it at your local Sbux, make sure you give it a try. 

Also loving the Hunger Games Triology.  I am on the final book of the series and trying to find any excuse to read it.   

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This bright, cheery and a little bit nautical look from Atlantic-Pacific.  I mean let's be honest, all of her outfits are lust-worthy but this one just screams glamorous fun in the sun.

Even though I am perfectly content and still loving my Yellow KitchenAid Mixer, I fell in love at first sight with this KitchenAid Artisan Susan G. Komen Stand Mixer in Raspberry Ice.  Not only would it be a brilliantly bold addition to any kitchen, but with the purchase of this mixer you are also contributing to the Susan G. Komen Cook for the Cure®’s efforts to cure breast cancer. 

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This ring and grey nail polish combo.  Whenever I see this photo I instantly want to run to the nearest beauty supply and pick up a bottle of grey polish (preferably chinchilly).  Grey, yellow, turquoise and a little bit of gold...possibly new bedroom color scheme? 

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Visits from friends and babies that include dinners at garlic ball heaven C&O Trattoria in Venice. 

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Holding sweet little buddy Raleigh while soaking up rays, sipping some wine at Sip in Malibu and reminiscing with friends.  This past weekend Coffey and Cabe flew down from Seattle so that many of us could meet little Raleigh as well as the handsome Easton.  It was a weekend of making the best of roadblocks and rules and fully of laughter and smiles.  So much fun!

Forever Frugal Friday ~ Watch Your Head

1. hair ties 2. twisted gold lame headwrap 3.diamond pattern fedora 4. braided seed bead headband

In the summer months ahead, it is always nice to pull your hair back and protect your scalp from those burning rays.  Whether you are tying it back in a pony, covering it up with a hat or pulling back the bangs with a headband we all want to look stylish while doing so.  These nifty head goodies will make sure you are protected as well looking pretty. 

Forever Frugal Friday

I absolutely need this Layered Beaded Section Necklace this summer.  The perfect statement piece to dress up your simple tank top, maxi dress or anything really. 

Last February I purchased one of my favorite items in my wardrobe a striped blazer from H&M that cost me a whopping $24.  Every time I wear it I get compliments and it is sold out all over from what I can tell.  I forwarded this Striped Knit Blazer over to my coworker and although it isn't exactly the same it is pretty close and still a great deal. 

I'm Lovin' It

Last week I was ever so luckily invited to attend the private shopping event at Christian Louboutin store on Robertson by my gf Kristina (in the gorgeous coral number).  Unfortunately I was unable to do any shopping at all, but I did get to meet and be photographed with the amazing Brad Goreski! 

He couldn't have been any cute in person, and can we just say that he is as nice as can be.  He was sweet enough to answer a few questions I had, such as when will your show begin taping (soon), where will it be filmed (LA, NYC, all over) and what channel could we watch all the goodness (Bravo - SWEET).  I wished him the best of luck and then threw back a glass of Veuve to celebrate.  When I left he was waiting for valet and he actually waved and said goodbye to me and wished me luck. 

I am officially even more in love with him than before!

This Asos Boxy Flat Lock Clutch.  I want to wear it with white denim and a bright colored tank and some amazing wedges.  Love the bright pink and gold details.

I know we all love Atlantic Pacific's fashion choices, but this ensemble had me absolutely drooling on my keyboard at the straight up fabulous-ness of it.  Adding to my must purchase for summer necessities - blue and white gingham button up. 

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This weekend marks my girl Christy's 30th, and as a graduate of Wazzu, we don't know how to celebrate a little bit...only a lot of bit.  I have a feeling stuffing our purses/pockets with these napkins isn't the worst idea ever...

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Now that I am able to eat chocolate again, I find myself surprised that I haven't been gorging myself on any and everything chocolate.  That was until I tried my coworkers dark chocolate covered edamame and find that I am constantly wanting to sneak into the snack cupboard to grab another handful.  Dangerously good.

B.  He makes me smile, laugh and happy.  It's a pretty amazing feeling that I feel blessed to experience.

Forever Frugal Friday

skirt, tank, sunglasses, sandals

I have been reading (and seeing) how popular chambray is this season and until I saw this skirt I was just sort of meh on the trend.  However, with 84 degree weather expected for tomorrow and a possible pub crawl through Venice, I thinking chambray is just perfect for the upcoming summer months. 

What are your thoughts - yay or nay to chambray?

I'm Lovin' It

I opened the cupboard in our kitchen at work and noticed this AWESOME mug staring back at me and I just smiled so big.  I have been trying to figure out who the owner is so I can give them a big hug.  It has had all of us gals giggling this week, and for that I love it. 

Have Mercy!

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I would do just about anything to call this my bathroom.  The pop of yellow, the bright white and light = right up my alley.

My iPad will be taking its first flight on a plane this Sunday and I am thinking I really wish I owned this Vivienne Westwood Derby tartan leather iPad case.  Love that it's pink and leather. 

I have been house sitting for my boss this past week at his gorgeous house on a walk street in Venice and have been loving the evening walks with B down the boardwalk to enjoy a beer at the Venice Ale House and the Waterfront Cafe all while enjoying the sunset.

My thoughtful and sweet coworker left me these lovely and fragrant roses on my desk Tuesday morning with a note that read, "Congrats on your promotion! Very well deserved".  Instantly brightened my mood.

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  I purchased  My Private Jet back in the end of February and just got around to painting them this past Sunday and loved the results!  It lasted almost without a chip for 4 days and really sparkled in the sunshine.

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This picture is really accurate of how it turns out and shines.  The color will soon be added to my must always have a bottle of collection.

And now I need your help, should I repaint my nails My Private Jet for San Francisco or go bright and bolder for my weekend?  I am on the fence - any polish color that I should absolutely pick for the trip?