Trail Blazers: Vince Camuto Edition

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Trail Blazers: Vince Camuto Edition

Salutations! If I had to name my favorite piece of clothing, I would probably have to say that I love the outerwear family. From moto jackets and peacoats to blazers and vests, I am a huge fan of all of it. A good jacket can make or break an outfit and can take something from simple to extraordinary by simply slipping it on. This has always been appealing to me and is why I love cold weather clothing so much because I have quite the outerwear collection. And, I got to add to it with this gorgeous new hounds tooth blazer by Vince Camuto. Take a look:

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  • Original Price: $180
  • TJMaxx Price: $50!!!

Although I only have one pair of shoes by Vince Camuto in my arsenal, I have admired his brand and beautiful creations for some time. So, it is always exciting to get something from a designer that you love for a fraction of the cost. And, I have to say, I was absolutely and completely thrilled to get this blazer in the mail. Just seeing it on the TJMaxx website gave me chills and it was one of those pieces that I knew was going to work without even having to try it on. I love when that happens!

Obviously, I was right – the blazer did work or we wouldn’t be here discussing it! But, it didn’t just work, it fucking slayed. Everything about this blazer from the hounds tooth pattern to the huge faux fur cuffs screams posh It Brit style to me and I am so there for it. My new Vinny C number looks fierce buttoned up against the cold but it also looks soft and elegant unbuttoned to display a thin cable knit sweater.

The color palette of the blazer is divine and having it come down into the cuffs in glorious tufts of caramel, black, and cream creates an edgy aesthetic while still looking oh so chic. Whether you pair this Vince Camuto blazer with your favorite sweater dress or knit skirt or just with a basic pair of skinnies, you are going to have a rockin’ OOTD – minimum effort required with maximum style.

What is your favorite type of clothing? How would you style this blazer? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

If The Shoe Fits: Splendid In Snakeskin Edition

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If The Shoe Fits: Splendid In Snakeskin Edition

Helloooo! I know, I know I had a fairly recent fall haul. BUT, fall is my favorite time to shop so I couldn’t resist picking out a few more goodies from TJMaxx’s online site. I also like to think that my pure and utter hatred for dressing during the summer balances out this splurge sesh because I really don’t buy a lot of warm weather clothing. In fact, at least eighty-five percent of my wardrobe is tailored to the crisp chill of autumn air. And, although these snakeskin kitten heeled booties by Splendid would be cute in the summer with some frilly socks, they will be taken to new heights in the upcoming fall season. Check it out:

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As you all know, I have a soft spot for snakeskin and have quite a few pairs of patterned boots already. However, all of them are in gray scale and I am obsessed with the fresh new take on a much loved pattern with the cinnamon syrup palette. And, of course, throw a few buckles on a pair of boots and you know I’m in!

Although the overall aesthetic of my new boots was pleasing, I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about them because I love a big heel and there is no denying that. And, in my humble opinion, a kitten heel doesn’t count! But, these felt just right when I slipped them on and the itty bitty lift is just enough to add some extra oomph as opposed to them being completely flat. Everything about these ankle boots flows so well from the pointed toe all the way to the heel and they are going to make a very cool edition to some autumn OOTDs.

Peeking beneath wide legged trousers or a maxi skirt or boldly displayed with some sharp skinnies, a statement will definitely be made. And, the beauty of the color palette is that despite it being a pattern, it is still a neutral so you could pair these shoes with literally anything and it will go together. So, go ahead and mix and match animal prints, florals, or stripes and get a unique ensemble – no huge heel required! 😉

What is your favorite style of boot? How about your favorite heel height? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Beautiful Yet Simple Additions To Your Home

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Beautiful Yet Simple Additions To Your Home

A home is not a finished piece. It is always something that is dynamic, that can change, that can be improved depending on your tastes and practical needs. This seems quite obvious to most of us, but it can often be hard to figure out which is the best way forward, and what action might help us towards the best result. Thankfully, these measures are more than possible to consider when we’re reminded of the potential we have available to us.

This is the eternal issue with home renovation – there are simply too many options! Without design cohesion as a careful application, it’s incredibly easy to forget everything and make each room look as though it’s part of an entirely different house. In a home, less is often more. That being said, let us consider how you might better your rooms with a simple addition, speaking of the three most important rooms in the house:

Letting The Outside In:

Often, the best home changes are those that are fundamental to how you view things there. For example, lighting and nature. Painting the walls a lighter shade, bringing in a nice warm light to cover an area of the room, and perhaps placing a potted plant or two can help the room feel much more airy, light, and natural.

Letting the outside in, then, is a natural extension from this. You may decide that the use of sliding doors will help you keep your living room open in the summer, allowing you seamless access to your garden or patio. This can be a perfect means to help you entertain more comfortably or to simply sit within your living area while reading books on cool summer evenings, watching the sunset as it slowly starts to descend. It’s hard to think of anything more peaceful than this.

A Front Door Arch:

There are some who have large pillars outside the front of their house, a grand water feature, or perhaps a huge driveway with trees lining either side to give the home a grand sense of appeal. However, all of this, while impressive, is not necessary for you to upgrade how your home exterior looks. In fact, something as simple as a new front door arch can be a great idea.

Using brickwork to trace the arch pattern, you may fill the heightened gap with stained glass or something else adhering to your tastes. Not only can this arch look incredibly beautiful, but said extra lighting can bring some true vibrancy to your entrance corridor. It’s a simple measure that can often look quite incredible, as well as replacing the front door to a heavy, potentially even custom wooden design to keep you safe and secure always.

Faux Ceiling Beams:

If you have high ceilings in your property, it can look as if there’s plenty of blank space high up there with no decoration to show. But, fear not, because there are measures of giving this large blank space a bit of personality and a whole load of texture. Faux ceiling beams can be a part of this. Installation, professionally done, can help a room gain so much more character and look as if the exposed wooden construction of your home is more handcrafted and a little less formulaic than it might be compared to homes on your street.

The Fireplace:

A fireplace can turn a cold and unwelcoming room into a space that invites you in to lounge on the rug with your pets. When you choose the right fireplace stone to fit your desired design, the end result can be remarkable. It will make quite the stark difference, particularly in the winter and in the larger rooms. Of course, a fireplace is dictated by where the ventilation such as a chimney is located in your home. However, these days it’s not uncommon for fireplaces to be blocked up and snuffed in order to prevent water build up or issues with the weather.

Fireplaces create an atmospheric focal point for a room and can be a selling point when you choose to move house. They are, however, not a one size fits all addition and you will want to select an option that matches your style and will still fit into future changes in the space. You can start looking at a website like Nostalgia UK (or a similar business in your local area) to gain inspiration on the right fireplace for your home. You will also want a professional team for installation and to ensure its safety. A fireplace can help you enjoy a lovely sense of comfort – and it can really tie a room together. If this is a renovation that you would like to have done in your home, check out these Expert Fireplace Renovation Tips to help create a warm, cozy space that encourages conversation and relaxation.

Decluttering:

Sometimes, the best addition is a subtraction. Decluttering your home is a great means of helping it gain some renewed life. For example, do you have plates on your wall, hung as decorations? If this is just to fill space, then why keep it? Do you have a floor rug that you almost trip on every time? How about a spinning wheel in the corner of the room that is always being knocked over by your kids? Of course, we’re not here to dictate your tastes at all, nor to make you feel that you have to somehow prove yourself in order to decorate how you want. And yet, simply feeling okay with throwing something out, storing it, or selling it on can help you avoid cluttering your home for no reason.

Keeping things simple is the name of the game. Administer these changes and be amazed at the fresh new take it will have on your home!

Featured Image By: Pexels – CC0 License

Accessory Story: We’ve Got The Knife Edition

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Accessory Story: We’ve Got The Knife Edition

Helloooo! I have a deep adoration for the creepy, spooky, scary, and disturbing so it only makes sense that my definition of “living my best life” was visiting a Halloween store with a client. It was so much fun to see all of the costumes, haunted house style decor, and walking on the “step here” signs to activate all of the moving, howling creatures. I basically wanted everything there to decorate my apartment with. But, since that is not in my ballin’ on a budget budget, I settled for some bloody knife earrings instead. Check them out:

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After snagging some pink bloody knife hair clips from Dolls Kill, I have been on the prowl for earrings to match and these new ones will do just fine. I love how the shiny metal and the dangling rubies dance in the lighting and, because I live every day like it’s Halloween, these definitely won’t just be for the end of October. Creepy? Yes. Disturbing? Kind of. But, nothing says punk rock horror princess like some dripping cutlery hanging from your ears! Freaking obsessed. 😀

Do you have any holiday themed jewelry or clothing? How do you rock them year round? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Faux Fur Fabulous: Sanctuary Jacket Edition

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Faux Fur Fabulous: Sanctuary Jacket Edition

Salutations! My mom has spoiled me absolutely rotten in the sweet surprises department this past month and has gifted me with headbands, new Keurig K cups, and some good ol’ fashioned Kraft mac n’ cheese. But, the real piece de resistance is my new cream colored faux fur jacket by Sanctuary. This is a brand that I am quite fond of but, sadly, don’t own a lot of pieces from. However, one of my favorite purses is by Sanctuary and I have been on the lookout for more by them ever since. So, how lucky for me that I have an amazing mom who found me a perfect new jacket by a brand that I lust after! Check it out:

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I have a strong passion for faux fur and have many a jacket, vest, and collars to keep myself glam rock and warm all winter long. I would never be caught dead in a large puffer jacket and faux fur is the ultimate way to go during the brutal Ohio winters. They may not be the heaviest but you can always layer and it prevents me from looking and feeling like a marshmallow and, frankly, that’s all I care about!

This new Sanctuary jacket is absolutely stunning. It’s shaggy but just enough so that it still looks feathery and has movement without giving off the illusion that I draped myself in a huge mop. And, can we talk about the color?! The alabaster hue will look simply charming against freshly fallen snow and is an excellent neutral for adding bright pops of color with scarves, gloves, and hats.

I used to be under the impression that neutral colors were “boring”. But, as my style continues to develop, I have found that it’s what you do with the colors that make your OOTDs exciting. Picture this: The creamy colored fringe of this jacket blowing in the wind, a nice heavy turtleneck underneath, sharp trousers, and a bright red boot to march about in this winter. Toss on your favorite knitwear accessories in bold colors and you have a winter ready OOTD without sacrificing style or any of the excitement of a more loud colored coat. *Sigh* Perfection.

How do you style neutral colors? What is your favorite color to wear? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

5 Things That’ll Disrupt Your Property’s Homely Factor

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5 Things That’ll Disrupt Your Property’s Homely Factor

Our homes are so much more than simply places to lay our heads at night and store our stuff. They’re where we create memories, feel safe, and feel the love. Or, at least, that’s the idea – the aim is to have a property that feels homey. It should feel like ours, the place where we long to be. And it should feel that way from the moment we pull up to the driveway. Alas, this won’t happen all on its own. We have to work for it, because there are some things that’ll disrupt the homely vibe you’re trying to create. Below, we take a look at five things that’ll do just that:

No Curb Appeal:

You don’t want to pull up to your home after a long day at work and think, “oh, this is my house…” You want to think, “this is my house!” The difference could be in the property’s curb appeal. They say you should start as you mean to go on, and if your front yard is well kept and all-around lovely, then you’ll get those warm feelings as soon as you arrive. Beautiful landscaping is one of the best ways to boost your home’s curb appeal. However, it can be a lot of work or downright difficult if you lack a green thumb. You might want to hire a professional to enhance and maintain your landscape design so your outdoor property looks its best.

Unwelcome Guests:

You’d feel a little uncomfortable if a stranger was living in your home, wouldn’t you? Yet actually, many of us have unwelcome guests in our homes, and they seriously compromise the homely nature of our properties. It’s imperative that every living being at your property is invited to live there. Bugs? Wasps? Bees? You surely didn’t invite them, so get rid of them. And it’s not just the feeling of insects in your home that’s the issue – they can also cause damage: you can learn more at animalcontrolspecialists.com. While prevention is the best way to keep them out of your home, there are effective ways to get rid of them once they’ve made themselves comfortable.

Poor Lighting:

You could work on making your home’s interior beautiful and well decorated and all the rest of it, but if the lighting isn’t right, then it won’t be as homely as it could be. Homeliness is all about feeling comfortable and relaxed, and you’ll find that difficult if there are forever bright lights shining into your eyes. So switch them out for atmospheric side lighting – it’ll help you and your family feel much more relaxed.

Unkempt Corners:

It’s awesome to own a property, but let’s be realistic too – it can be hard work. But it has to be done. You’ll feel ill at ease in your property if there are damaged corners and the dirt is piling up. Make a habit of staying on top of your DIY tasks, and stick to a weekly cleaning schedule.

Lack of Comfort:

Finally, how are your comfort levels? It’s sometimes worth upgrading your couch, bedding, and towels just for the noticeable improvement in comfort that they bring. You’ll feel the difference, especially in the winter, when your home is a pleasant and warm retreat from the chill of the outdoors. Add some hot chocolate, and you’ll be good to go!

Fix up the five points above and turn your house into the homeliest home on the block!

Featured Image By: Pixabay – CC0 Licence

Accessory Story: Cheetah Girl Headband Edition

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Accessory Story: Cheetah Girl Headband Edition

Howdy! In the past, I was never a huge animal print fan and I still wouldn’t say that it’s my favorite. However, I do love me a good snakeskin or cheetah print every now and again so I was so happy when my mom surprised me with another darling headband in cheetah print. I am especially pleased with this because my boyfriend has a fondness for the jungle style pattern and I know that he is going to love it! Check it out:

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I used to think that cheetah print was too gaudy for me and I will always prefer the more rocker snakeskin. However, when done in small doses with accessories, I can sport a cheetah print with the best of them. This cloth headband with a top twist is just right to add a little sass to an OOTD or spice up a more laid back look. The warmer toned palette also goes nicely with my hair and my usual makeup and I am excited to pair it with chunky knit sweaters, boots, and a good pair of skinnies come fall.

My mom is such a sweetheart and is always on the lookout for surprises for all of her children. There is nothing quite like getting a text or a call from that woman saying that she has something for you, because she knocks it out of the park 99% of the time. And, even if she doesn’t, the fact that she thinks about me and my style when she’s doing her own errands is enough for me. She is one of a kind and an absolute national treasure and I love JANE so much!

How do you rock an animal print? Who is the easiest or most difficult person in your family to shop for? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Scary Good Vases

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Scary Good Vases

Helloooo everyone! I have tons of knick knacks in my apartment that I love to have on display. From my crystal collection and gifts from friends to items I treasure from my beloved grandparents and, of course, Wilson the volleyball from Cast Away – it makes me happy to see it all every day in my apartment. I have a little bit of everything but, shockingly, no vases which I needed to add to the arsenal to hold the gorgeous rose that my boyfriend got for me.

Luckily, Walmart had their Halloween collection already in store the last time I was there with a client and I was able to snag these beauties. Check it out:

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As a lover of all things creepy, these new vases were right up my alley and for five bucks a pop, I couldn’t pass them up. The shocking black butterfly, skull, and spider against the creamy white bottles are the ultimate spooky chic decor. And, pair it with a blood red rose? Perfection.

These vases were a great find and, although I won’t say I needed them, I did need something to put my flowers in. So, technically yes, I did need them. Having these vases that encase such a sweet gesture makes me smile whenever I look at them. It’s the little things that make me the happiest in a relationship and this definitely scored some extra brownie points for my MAN. And, double brownie points for him unknowingly giving his shopaholic girlfriend a reason to buy more stuff, lolol. 😀

How do you celebrate Halloween? What are your favorite knick knacks in your home? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Lil Red’s Art Gallery: This Is Halloween Edition

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Lil Red’s Art Gallery: This Is Halloween Edition

Howdy! So, while shopping at Walmart with a client, I went a bit too hard in the Halloween department and picked out some new wall art and knick knacks for the apartment. What can I say, I just couldn’t help myself! It may be mid September but, in my humble opinion, spooky season is officially among us and I couldn’t be more excited if I tried! And, although I still have none of the paintings that I got compliments of Goodwill in my apartment, I couldn’t say no to these beauties. Check it out:

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It shouldn’t come as a surprise that as soon as I saw the skeleton pop out picture, it went right into my cart. And, it was a wonderful surprise to me to find the ghoulishly gorgeous butterflies behind the skeleton one. So, into the cart it went. These pictures combine creepy with pretty (My own personal aesthetic!) and I am deeply looking forward to eventually getting them hung up in my apartment.

Normally, I am not one to fill my living space with all Halloween everything and I liked that these pictures were a little dark and disturbing without a giant Frankenstein being plastered on it. However, I guess if it was done in the style of the pictures above, it could be kind of cool! 😉

What is your favorite holiday to decorate for? Which stores have the best Halloween decor? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

How A Long Haul Move Should Really Be Done

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How A Long Haul Move Should Really Be Done

After all of the searching and viewing, you have finally found your new home and settled on a price. You’ve signed the contract, you’ve sent the money, and you’re just days away from being handed the keys. The only slight concern is that your new home is many miles away. It’s going to take a few hours to get there and that means one hell of a busy day ahead of you.

Long haul moves are not that common so most people tend to treat them the same as a normal moving trip. However, this is definitely not the case. So, packing certain things has to be done in a specific way so they survive the trip. You, too, have to get enough rest so that you’re ready for whatever task you’re suddenly met with. Here’s how a long haul move should be done:

Be careful of scratches:

The longer your furniture and other decor pieces are trapped in a truck, the higher the chances that one of them will be scratched. When furniture rubs together you’re bound to damage it because the weights we’re talking about are quite large. So, when you’re finally ready to pack up the largest pieces such as cabinets, cupboards, wardrobes, tables, chairs, and the couch, you need to use shrink wrap. This will protect the wood from being scratched but it’s safe to use and easy to take off. You’ll save a lot of time working in twos wrapping each item and all you need is one person with box cutters to take the wrapping off when you’re in the new place.

Use expert help:

If you’re moving a lot of things, it’s best to use the services of professional long distance movers. These long distance movers are international movers and have expertise in moving fine art, pianos, and other delicate expensive things like crystal vases. They also do all of the heavy lifting, so if you would rather not have a hand in anything, they’ll prepare your things and lift them into the trucks, then lift them out when you arrive at your home.

They also have storage for valuable vehicles, which is a big concern for long haul movers. You’re obviously going to want to take your cars with you, but managing to do all this in one day is very tricky if you’re on your own. Use expert help and don’t try to juggle everything at once, you might end up leaving something behind or not properly packing your things so they get damaged on the way.

Early birds:

You will be ripping your hair out if you’re caught in rush hour traffic with your life literally stuck in the back of multiple trucks. So get up early and plan your journey to end by early afternoon or evening and no later. Don’t avoid the main highways, just use them when they’re not packed with commuters.

A long haul move can be stressful but, plan it right, and it will be smooth sailing to your new home!