Luna Moon Peasant Blouse

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Luna Moon Peasant Blouse

Hello! Today we are going to discuss a mustard yellow peasant blouse by Luna Moon found during my TJMaxx Haul with my mom. I have never been a huge fan of peasant blouses. However, when I saw this top in one of my favorite colors along with a brightly embroidered pattern, I just had to give it a shot. This Luna Moon number will be ideal during the fall and cooler summer evenings and I can’t wait to rock it! Let’s get to it:

Nine times out of ten, I have found that peasant blouses legit look like maternity tops on me. My latest purchase is the one exception and that is, actually, thanks to a detail that I normally despite: The tied waist. This is just my personal preference but I cannot stand tops on me that tie at the bottom and I didn’t realize that was the case with my blouse until I tried it on.

This problem was quickly solved by simply tucking it into my shorts and it looked so much better. Tucking the top solved the tie waist issue as well as eradicated the flowiness that, more often than not, makes me look slightly preggo! You guys probably all think I sound crazy but I think everyone has a style of clothing that they refuse to wear for a silly (And more than likely, untrue!) reason lol. 

Now, finally, let’s talk about this Luna Moon blouse in actuality because I think it is quite stunning. We all know Lil Red loves mustard yellow but what takes it over the top, if you will, is the gorgeous embroidery. The blue, red, orange, and white pop so well against the mustard yellow and it has also opened my eyes to color combinations that I have never thought of before. Who knew turquoise and mustard could look so good together? Not I. Luna Moon did, though!

While this top will work during a mild summer day, I think it will be perfect for fall. Tucking it into skirts with thick tights and high waisted jeans will definitely be the move. As well as the shorts and tights combo that I am particularly fond of.

My new peasant blouse took me out of my comfort zone but that is what was so fun about the TJs trip I had with my mom. We both tried things that we normally would shy away from and the reward from the fashion risk made it so worth it. Here’s to taking risks with fashion for all in the future because you might just find your new favorite thing!

Is there a specific shape of clothing that you refuse to wear? How do you take fashion risks? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Rachel Zoe Tank Top Set

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Rachel Zoe Tank Top Set

Hi! Lil Red loves ultra unique statement pieces, which means that more basic items often get overlooked in my wardrobe. What is lacking in essentials is made up for with a bunch of crazy shoes, though lol! While I always mean to get closet must haves while shopping like tanks and neutral options, it never quite works out that way. Until my trip to TJMaxx with my mom, that is.

At TJs, I found the literal best tank tops I have ever worn by Rachel Zoe. My only regret? That I didn’t get a backup of the set of two that I purchased! Check it out:

When I first saw this black and white tank top set, I just had to try it on. Normally, I would acknowledge the cuteness of these tanks and move on. However, I loved the convenience of the set of two, the ribbing, and the thick straps. Peek a boo bra straps are always an issue for me and knowing that it wouldn’t be a problem with these tanks made me eager to give them a shot. Who wants to adjust themselves all summer long? Pas moi!

I wasn’t expecting to feel so good in just a tank top but I really was blown away as soon as I had it on in the fitting room. These Rachel Zoe tanks fit like a dream and are quite slimming thanks to the vertical stripes and ribbing. The tank flattered my body without feeling too tight and there were no bra straps to be seen. 😀

Rachel Zoe clearly drew inspiration from a classic wife beater but she turned it on its head and made it *fashion*. The shorter length, tighter fit, and ribbing all helped the cause. However, the best part of these tanks is the appearance of the material. In my opinion, it almost looks sweater like when it is really just rayon! My new tanks will definitely help me stay cool this summer while still making me feel chic and I never thought I would say that about a basic piece before.

It has been brutally hot in Ohio these past several days with temperatures in the nineties and I have already made great use of my purchase because of it. These essential tanks are universally flattering while still having a little something extra to them and I am so there for it. Like I said, I wish I bought two sets and I highly recommend them!

What are some essential must haves in your wardrobe? How do you add spice to basic pieces? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Rebellion Again Mustard Yellow Kimono

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Rebellion Again Mustard Yellow Kimono

Hi! During the pandemic, I really didn’t do too much online clothing shopping. It’s not like Johnny and I were going anywhere and I didn’t want to deal with the hassle of making inevitable in store returns. While I bought a few odds and ends, I found that I played it pretty safe with my purchases so I wouldn’t have to make a separate trip for pieces in the “no” pile.

Given the circumstances, this method worked. However, we all know that the last thing Lil Red likes to do when it comes to fashion is play it safe! That is why my past few shopping outings with myself, my mom, and best gal Danielle were so much fun. It felt amazing to be able to actually try clothing on in store and experiment with shapes and colors that I normally wouldn’t pick for myself.

Thanks to my recent hauls, I would consider my wardrobe perfectly refreshed for summer. The fashion bug continues to bite, though, because all I can think about is how I’m going to style all of these cool new finds. Like this Rebellion Again kimono, for starters:

I found this kimono at TJMaxx when I went with my mom and, originally, didn’t even plan on trying it on because they only had one size – a large. I thought it was going to be way too big but JANE encouraged me to give it a shot anyways and I’m glad she did because it fit just right! I have never owned anything like this breezy little number before and I think it is so unique.

As always, when it comes to anything mustard yellow, I fall in love with it pretty quickly because it is one of my favorite colors to wear other than black. Paired with the cream stitching, this kimono screams summer and I can picture myself throwing it on to go to the pool, work, and just about anywhere! Whether paired with simple shorts and a tank top or over a maxi dress for a boho vibe, I think it will transform any outfit into a statement.

The details and colors of my new Rebellion Again kimono are gorgeous but the best part of it is, easily, the fabric. The mustard yellow part is all mesh and I have never seen anything like that before. I love the contrast between the gauzy material and thick stitching and it is a light as a feather option even on a super hot day. I cannot wait to wear it ASAP!

What are your favorite colors to wear? How do you like to make fashion statements? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Moon & Madison Knit Tank

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Moon & Madison Knit Tank

Hi! Shopping at TJMaxx with my mom this past week has been one of the highlights of my year – and getting married, of course! We had not had a mother/daughter TJs outing since before the pandemic and we picked up right where we left off so long ago. Walking into TJMaxx together felt like finally coming home after a vacation and we each left with an awesome haul of clothes, skin care, and home goods. My mom also found two cute new pairs of sandals which made my inner shoe diva so proud!

We were both able to refresh our summer wardrobes and I think I am well set for the season now. I am so happy with all of my purchases and can’t wait to sport this little Moon & Madison number ASAP:

I recently bought a knit tank at Dry Goods thanks to inspiration from Facebook ads and when I saw my new Moon & Madison top at TJs, I just had to try it on. I loved that it was cropped as my Thread & Supply one is much longer and, most importantly, I loved being able to show support to my friends in the LGBTQ+ community. It also shows support to myself, as well, because I am bisexual!

lifewithlilred is a page that celebrates and embraces all of the wonderful things that make us different and I am a safe person to anyone who may need to talk. My inbox is always open and I am just an email, comment, or Facebook message away. You can find me at: Sarah Mushenheim or email me at: sarah.mush6794@gmail.com . I encourage everyone to live their life in color and with a little bit of red too! ❤

Who is your shopping partner in crime? What is something about you that you are proud of? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

3 Best Dog Gift Ideas You May Have Not Considered

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3 Best Dog Gift Ideas You May Have Not Considered

A dog is a man’s best friend; its loyalty and intelligence when interacting with humans are pretty advanced. Caring for a dog is one of the most straightforward yet complex tasks every owner has to go through. You need to identify how you can train your dog to respond to your commands and requests to ease your worries.

It takes time to mesh your personalities together and trust each other in the do-owner relationship. However, once you are in sync with each other, there are many activities which you can enjoy with your dog. Notably, these pet relationships usually have many health benefits to the owner. The mental, physical, and emotional health significantly improves due to the dog and the owner’s numerous activities.

If you are thinking of gifting your dog, here are three ideas to consider:

Personalized Collars:

Even though collars are usually the first thought on every dog owner’s mind, you can personalize and make them unique for your pet. Look into the design and print or emboss your favorite memory with your dog; it can be a picture or a place that you both enjoy. Most people usually prefer having their dog’s name for identification and their signature style. However, you can diversify and have numerous symbolic writings or drawings to make it more memorable.

Some people have also taken a step further by getting waterproof shock collars which are electronic but can still function properly while underwater. These collars also come in handy while training the dogs or, at worst, restraining the dog in extreme situations. It is a good gift as it provides identification, connection, and enhances communication with you.

Dog Sofa:

Getting a dog sofa or a dog bed is a brilliant idea. Many types of dog beds and sofas enhance the comfort of the dog while resting or relaxing. Some bed designs can heat the mattress to provide more warmth for the dog during cold days or nights. It is a thoughtful gift as you will ease the dog’s worries during these periods. You can also purchase a matching blanket for the sofa or the bed.

If you are thinking of gifting your dog with a new bed this holiday season, then look no further than Bobby Bed. They have lots of wonderful orthopedic options for your older pups as well as calming beds to sooth restless puppies to sleep. We all deserve a good night’s sleep (and a nap or two during the day) and your doggos are no exception!

A Trip to Their Favorite Park/Place:

Dogs always yearn to connect with their owners through spending time and doing their favorite activities. Doing what makes your dog happy can be a simple but expensive gift you will give your dog – the gift of time. It will be a special moment with your dog. It will mean a lot to them because of the understanding and connection that you have with each other. You can also include activities like playing games while giving them their favorite treats.

Gifting your dog can seem like a waste of time for all who cannot understand and perceive your connection with your pet. However, you have to gift according to your love and understanding of the dog. Be keen on the dog’s likes and preferences, and you will hit the jackpot with these three ideas.

Featured Image By: Pexels

June 2021 Finishes

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June 2021 Finishes

Hi! It’s the end of another month here on lifewithlilred, which means it’s time to discuss my beauty finishes for June. Tomorrow, we will continue on with a super fun clothing haul from TJMaxx and then it’s onto makeup and skin care thanks to a little Sephora shopping. Be sure to keep it posted for all of the latest and greatest! Now, let’s get to it:

Would I Use Again?

Why/Why Not?

TBS Clay Wash: It has been a long while since I have tried out a brand new skin care product because once I find something I like, I tend to stick with it. This clay wash from The Body Shop had been sitting in my stock pile for months and I was so happy to have finally been able to use it! I love TBS products and the Himalayan Charcoal clay wash was part of a Christmas gift from my brother and his family.

TBS skin and bath and body care always makes me feel perfectly pampered and this face wash was no exception. The wash had a thinner consistency than a clay mask and it felt so gentle on my skin while still working effectively. The scent was invigorating and my skin looked bright and fresh after using it every morning. A little of the wash also went such a long way and the bottle lasted me at least a month and a half. I highly recommend this product and would really like to use it again!

Nothing pleases Lil Red more than a bunch of monthly empties and I would recommend each and every one of the products above. There are lots of skin care and Face Mask Festivities posts on the horizon so stay tuned on lifewithlilred for more! ❤

Which products did you use up this month? Which skin care products do you recommend? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Kitchen Upgrades To Try Today

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Kitchen Upgrades To Try Today

They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. We tend to spend a lot of time in this space, cooking, chatting, hosting guests. So, why not consider giving your kitchen a little overhaul with some new appliances that will not only look great, but will add to your cooking too? Here are just a few examples you might want to consider:

A Stand Mixer:

Into baking? Throughout the past year and a half, many people have picked up baking as an activity to keep them preoccupied with free time found during the pandemic. We can’t blame them! Baking can be carried out easily from the comfort of your own home – and you get a delicious treat at the end too! Now, if you’ve been practicing and are getting better at your breads, cakes, pastries and other baked goods you may be aware of just how tiring it can be thoroughly mixing ingredients. This is where a stand mixer could help. Stand mixers do the hard work for you, leaving you with a lovely dough or batter, ready to bake.

A Coffee Machine:

If you like a good cup of coffee, you don’t have to go to your local coffee shop to get one. If you have a coffee machine at home, you’ll be able to make delicious brews within your own four walls. A coffee machine can do much more than simply pouring hot water from the kettle into some granules. When choosing your machine, make sure to look for good reviews and recommendations. This will give you an idea of other people’s experience with your chosen machine and whether it’s worth the money. There are different options on the market to suit different budgets but, generally speaking, the better the machine is, the better the coffee will be.

Cookware:

A lot of us settle for budget cookware only to find that food sticks to it or the food burns on it. This is less than ideal, so consider overhauling your cookware and investing in some new versions. There are different types for different cooking devices, such as the best ceramic cookware for oven, stove top, and more. There are also many different designs, allowing you to match your pots, pans and trays to the aesthetic of your kitchen itself.

A Slow Cooker:

Many of us are working from home now and would love to be able to prep a few simple ingredients in the morning to have dinner ready at the end of the day. A slow cooker can achieve this. Leave it plugged in with your ingredients inside and you can have some great casseroles, stews, and curries lined up for your evening meals.

There’s an endless array of other kitchen appliances and equipment out there. The options highlighted above are just a few useful suggestions that could do you and your home a world of good!

Featured Image By: Pexels

TJMaxx Home Goods Haul

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TJMaxx Home Goods Haul

Hi! After a long year and change without in store TJMaxx shopping, my mom and I finally had our first outing to TJs last week. It was everything I ever could have imagined AND MORE! While it was great fun to spend my birthday gift cards, it was even better to spend time with my mom browsing the aisles and modeling the clothes we tried on together. We both walked away with lots of goodies that we are so happy with and I have been mentally reliving our shopping trip since we left the store.

Today, we are going to look at a few of the home goods items that I got for mine and Johnny’s apartment. My TJMaxx clothing haul will begin on July first after we discuss my June 2021 Finishes so keep it posted for that! Now, let’s get to it:

Since moving into my apartment over two years ago, I haven’t bought too much in terms of home goods. Between my initial Moving On Up Hauls and all of the things Johnny brought when he moved in, we really didn’t need anything. However, the laundry hamper that I purchased at TJMaxx when I moved was falling apart at the bottom and it definitely needed replacing. I was hoping to find a new one during my outing with my mom and the TJMaxx gods must have felt it! I love the woven wood hamper that I picked out because of how sturdy it is, the fact that it has a lid, and it is way prettier than my old one. 😀

For my kitchen, I picked up a few odds and ends like ice cube trays in an adorable honeycomb pattern, plates, and a few dish towels. Johnny and I have been saying for forever that we need some ice cube trays and the ones I found are ideal because they won’t take up a lot of room in our tiny freezer. The plates were also a must because we are constantly running out of them, which means we are constantly doing dishes! I thought that four plates for eight dollars was a steal, too.

TJMaxx didn’t have a whole lot of choices in terms of dish towels, but the Love Birds ones that I selected (On clearance!) will do just fine. In fact, they are perfect for us as a newly married couple! My mom was even kind enough to get some of the home supplies for us as an extra wedding prezzie. So sweet! ❤

Shopping at TJMaxx with my mom was absolutely amazing and this outing in particular will forever hold a special place in my heart. We picked up at TJs right where we left off so long ago and I am already looking forward to our next shopping trip. ❤

Where is your favorite place to shop? Who do you like to go shopping with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Red By BKE Date Night Top

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Red By BKE Date Night Top

Hello! During my recent trip to Summit Mall with my friend, Danielle, she suggested shopping at Dry Goods and it was a huge success. Prior to my Altar’d State haul at the end of May, I had not been to the mall in years so I thought it best for Danielle to lead the way. We ended up in one of her favorite stores, Buckle, and I walked away with a gorgeous date night top by Red By BKE. Check it out:

When I first saw this top, I fell in love immediately and I also knew that Johnny would love it too. We both heavily favor the color black in our wardrobes and this little number actually reminded me of my black wedding dress! I had a feeling that my purchase was going to work well for me but I was blown away by how fabulous it was when I tried it on.

I would consider this top to be one of the sexiest that I own and, originally, I had a slight fear that it was going to be too much. However, once I tried it on, I felt completely chic. While the black lace is, indeed, sexy it is counterbalanced with only the lace from the shoulders up being sheer. This left no part of me feeling exposed, which made me feel incredibly comfortable in it.

My new top is form fitting and, as a bustier girl, I tend to shy away from curve hugging clothes. The genius of the design by Red By BKE eased that self consciousness, though! The opaque striping throughout the top makes your eyes dance rather than focus on just one part and it made me feel really confident. I also love that there is striping on the sheer lace placed exactly where your bra straps would be so I can get away with wearing a cleverly disguised black bra.

I am so happy with my buy from Buckle and I feel awesome in it. To me, it is the perfect balance of sex appeal and sophistication and it’s cool to see myself in that light because it is so different from what is in my closet. I can’t wait to wear this for the next date night with my husband!

What makes you feel confident? How would you style this top? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mean Muggin: Very Nice Edition

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Mean Muggin: Very Nice Edition

Hi! We interrupt lifewithlilred’s summer wardrobe refresh with a new edition of Mean Muggin. Your regularly scheduled programming will return tomorrow. 🙂

For my twenty-seventh birthday, I was showered with love and gifts from my family and friends and just when I thought my celebrations were over, a late gift from my sister, Kristen, showed up in the mail. Check it out:

I have quite a collection of coffee mugs and, despite having enough to use for a week and a half, I still love to receive them as gifts. Coffee mug presents are fun because they tend to be customized or have an image on it that reminded the gifter of their giftee. Kristen’s birthday present to me falls under the second category and it only makes sense considering I quote Borat at least fifteen times a day! I also may or may not constantly be sending Borat quote text messages to her, lol.

As soon as I opened my new mug, I started laughing and there will be no better way to start my morning than with a cup of coffee and Borat wishing me GREAT SUCCESS. A coffee mug may seem like a small, simple gift but they are so much more than that to me because of the thought that goes into it. From minions and a customized me to Borat and hand decorated, I love my coffee mug collection and my Borat mug is a fine addition to it. VERY NICE!

Do you have a favorite coffee mug? What is your favorite thing to gift people with? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah