Tag Archives: shopping

Mar1

New Umgee USA Poncho

Posted on March 1, 2020 by lifewithlilred

Hi! A very cool part of shopping at EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s in Marietta, Ohio was that it also had a few racks of consignment clothing along with their selection of brand new items. It was in the consignment rack that my eyes locked on a stunning denim blue and cream colored poncho by Umgee USA. Normally, something like that wouldn’t be my immediate choice to try on, but I was so enamored by the macrame style detailing that I just had to give it a shot. And, I’m glad I did because it obviously ended up coming home with me! Check it out:

Everything about my new poncho is so unique and that’s why I am itching to wear it once the spring weather hits. From the paisley pattern and fringe at the bottom to the macrame detailing on the collar and sleeves, this poncho screams all things 1970s. And, as an avid fan of That 70’s Show and all of the amazing fashion in it, I was beyond excited to welcome it into my wardrobe.

I cannot wait to pair this poncho with sweet denim shorts as soon as the warm weather strikes. I also think that it would look absolutely charming with an A-line mini skirt and some platform heels. No matter how I style my Umgee USA poncho, I know that it will make a statement… A bold statement that only costed me FIVE BUCKS! You just can’t beat that!

Do you have a favorite consignment shop in your area? Which decade of fashion most inspires you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb29

New Hayden Los Angeles Maxi Dress

Posted on February 29, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! These past two days you got to see the gorgeous jewelry that I got from EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s in Marietta, Ohio. Now, it’s time to introduce all of you to the lovely new pieces that I added to my wardrobe for surprisingly cheap (I think I paid forty dollars for three things). It was honestly one of the best shopping experiences I’ve had in a while. Exploring a new store in a new city with the love of my life was such a treat and I cannot wait to wear all of my purchases, like the one below:

I have recently been trying to add more dresses to my collection because all of the ones in my closet are old as dirt. There are some that I still have kept around from my PacSun days over five years ago and they definitely look it. So, I was very happy to find this pretty little floral number for a whole fifteen dollars, because my dress hunt has been quite unsuccessful until now.

I absolutely love the white piping on this dress, the buttons going all the way down the front, and the way the colorful flowers pop against the navy base. The one hundred percent polyester material keeps the dress lightweight and breathable despite its length and, depending on how it’s styled, it could easily be worn for at least three seasons.

Of course, I’ll be wearing my new dress in its true form of, well, a dress. But, in the fitting room at EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s, I undid the buttons and had it on as a duster over my jeans and cami, which also looked very cute. I can picture myself wearing this dress belted with a killer pair of heels but I also predict that I’ll be throwing it on as a duster to spice up a more basic outfit very often!

How do you style maxi dresses? Is there anything that you’re trying to add more of to your wardrobe? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb28

Accessory Story: Bling Bling Earrings Edition

Posted on February 28, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Accessory Story: Bling Bling Earrings Edition

Howdy! During my Valentine’s Day weekend in Marietta with my boyfriend, Johnny, he humored me by letting me shop in a darling boutique called EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s. Despite him looking like the “miserable husbands of Instagram” who fall asleep at the mall while their wives shop, I know he had a good time too. In fact, he’s just as big of an enabler as when I’m shopping with my mom or sister! Haha, such an angel!

I went a little earring crazy during my boutique bonanza but it’s not like I’m going to be able to shop in that store again any time soon so it was totally worth it. You saw my cool cross earrings yesterday and now check out two more super blingy pairs:

While I was checking out, the square pair of earrings with the Mardi Gras chic colors was sitting in a basket marked five dollars. I immediately tossed them in my pile and began taking a closer look at the jewelry in the store after realizing that their selection was going to be just as good as their clothes (Which you’ll begin seeing tomorrow!).

My boyfriend and I both loved the unique square earrings and the cross ones but we both decided that the glittery light pink lightning bolts were a must. At the same time, we said that it was like David Bowie and you’re not going to not purchase something like David Bowie!

I am so enamored with both of these pairs of earrings because of their colors. I definitely don’t own anything in the festive shades of the square pair or the glam rock pink of the lightning bolts. Each pair is going to make an eye popping statement and I’m looking forward to wearing all of the pretty new babes that I added to my jewelry collection. 😀

Do you own anything that reminds you of a celebrity or musician? What is the most unique pair of earrings you own? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb27

Accessory Story: Cross To Bear Earrings Edition

Posted on February 27, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Accessory Story: Cross To Bear Earrings Edition

Hi! While shopping in Marietta during Valentine’s Day weekend, I went a little crazy at a boutique with the adorably Southern name of EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s. This Francesca’s style store is in the process of going completely online so do be sure to check it out because they had the most gorgeous clothes and accessories for insanely good prices. Not only did I get three beautiful new clothing pieces but I ended up with a ton of earrings too, including these lovely cross shaped numbers:

Despite not being religious in the slightest, I have always had a panache for cross shaped accessories. I love rosaries and dangly cross earrings and you can almost always catch me rocking my signature black pair. I am a huge fan of the bling and when I saw my new cross earrings bedazzled in black and white gems I just couldn’t choose which color I wanted… So I got both, lol. Whoops! 😉

I am a firm believer in accessories being able to completely change an outfit, which makes me partial to chunky necklaces and dramatic beads. But, I am particularly fond of earrings because of how they pop against my short-ish, choppy, red hair. I love being able to see the light hit the gemstones or shiny metallic hues and it puts complete focus on your pretty face.

Not only do these earrings make a bold statement but they will look absolutely dazzling come summer time when the sunlight makes the crystals dance. EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s was such a charming little shop and I can’t wait to share the rest of my haul with all of you!

What is your favorite boutique? What is your favorite kind of accessory? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb25

If The Shoe Fits: Fringe Finds Edition

Posted on February 25, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! During my Valentine’s Day weekend in Marietta, I did a fair bit of shopping… No surprise there! My boyfriend, Johnny, and I wandered into the Noah’s Arc Thrift Shop in Parkersburg, West Virginia and I found the most fabulous pair of black fringe cowboy boots I have ever seen in my life. And the real miracle? The boots are a size five and a half and I’m a six! Praise be to he. Anyways, take a look at some pics and let’s discuss:

While Johnny and I were browsing and my eyes locked on these bad boys by Dingo, my heart literally stopped. Then, I was filled with the overwhelming disappointment that the boots of my dreams were one half size too small. I had no intention of trying them on, because I figured that they wouldn’t fit. But, Johnny encouraged me to give them a shot anyways and by some divine intervention, they fit… albeit a little tight! 😉

I have never owned a pair of cowboy boots before and never had a desire too because they aren’t my style in the slightest. But, if you throw some black fringe on a shiny black background and a bad ass shape, how do you expect me to refuse?! These are the most punk rock cowboy boots I’ve ever seen and it only seems fitting that they should now belong to me.

Had these shoes been less loved, I highly doubt that they would have been able to fit me comfortably. But, the previous owner obviously wore them a lot because they were nice and broken in. These boots are going to look so fierce with short shorts and peeking out beneath maxi skirts this summer and I am one hundred and fifty percent ready for it!

How do you style cowboy boots? What has been your latest thrift store find? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb22

Dollar Tree Haul

Posted on February 22, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! If you’re anything like me, then I know you love some discount shopping! The Dollar Tree is my happy place and I always seem to be able to find a little treat or some food for chez moi at a fraction of the price of a normal grocery store. Speaking of going grocery shopping, I only go once every two to three months. Since I live alone, I stock up on everything I need to avoid weekly or even biweekly trips to the grocery.

However, I am in the phase of my extended time not grocery shopping where my cupboards are running a little bare. And by a little, I mean I’ve literally ate spaghetti every day for the past week, lol. Luckily, the Dollar Tree has my back and I was able to pick up all of these goodies for a whole thirteen bucks. Check it out:

Lol, so I know that looks like an excessive amount of the Arizona nachos n’ cheese dip, reminiscent of an adult Lunchable, but it’s actually not enough. These nacho trays are my absolute favorite snack on the planet. The small, circular chips are crisp, the cheese is spicy, and it really is a perfect and highly convenient snack for when I’m at work. And, of course, you need some Sour Skittles to wash it all down. 😉

I am also very partial to the Shells & Cheese kit because you don’t need milk to make it, which is great, because I haven’t had milk in my apartment for months! One of these tiny boxes makes a staggering amount of mac n’ cheese and it ends up feeding me for at least three days. And for a whole dollar, you just can’t beat that.

Finally, I was so pleased with the last sets of fake eyelashes that I purchased from the Dollar Tree that I decided to restock my supply. The last fake lashes I got were long and in funky colors because it was around Halloween when I bought them. They applied like a dream and lasted all night so I’m looking forward to testing out my simple pairs of black lashes on a day where I don’t feel like doing my makeup. Keep tuning in to see how it works out! 😀

What is your favorite discount store to shop at? How often do you go grocery shopping? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb18

Picking The Best Bridesmaid Dress For Your Wedding Party

Posted on February 18, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Picking The Best Bridesmaid Dress For Your Wedding Party

Hello everyone!! A few months ago, I was asked to be a bridesmaid in my best friend, Lea’s, wedding. I am so excited for her big day in October and this month, we are going to David’s Bridal to do some shopping for the bridesmaid dresses. Ah, the bridesmaid dress. Notorious for making some girls look heinous and others phenomenal. This creates massive eye sores in the photographs and just might make your BFFs bitter for years to come. So, to avoid these complications, here is a quick guide to making sure all of your bridal party looks amazing on your big day:

Universally Flattering Color:

Choosing a universally flattering color for your bridesmaid dresses is probably the most important thing you can do to ensure that all of your ladies are looking fly. Now is not the time to bust out the hot pinks, lime greens, or highlighter yellows. Rather, stick with soft hues, which will make the bridesmaids not have to work hard to pull it off. Pale pinks are an especially pretty option and is just about as universally flattering as it gets. If you’re having a wedding later in the year and want something a bit darker, navy blue and oxblood are also safe choices to implement!

Universally Flattering Shape:

The next key thing that you can do to keep your bridesmaids looking their best is to use a universally flattering shape for the dress. I promise, your bridesmaids aren’t going to outshine you and you will still look like the HBIC of your girl gang. But, I can also promise that none of the ladies in your girl gang want to be stuck in a dumpy dress all day. The beauty of your girl gang is that all of them are made up of different shapes and sizes. If you are not having your bridesmaids wear dresses in a different style but same color, then it is imperative that the shape you pick makes each girl feel comfortable. I find that maxi or tea length dresses are especially flattering because those tend to not be skin tight, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! Keep things flowy but elegant for the best results on each bridesmaid’s body.

Different Dress, Same Color:

If you are going this route for your bridesmaids, make sure that you provide a guide line for the lengths you would prefer them in. It’s going to look very awkward in your pictures if there’s one girl in a mini dress among the rest of your bridesmaids in something longer. If you let your expectations be known to your girls, they can still pick out a dress more specific to their body type while being mindful of your vision for your wedding.

Same Dress All Around:

If you want all of your bridesmaids in uniform dresses, that’s your prerogative and neither way is wrong. However, let your bridesmaids have some fun by choosing their own shoes or accessories to wear with the dress. This will keep your bridesmaids feeling spicy without straying from the path of what you have in mind. And, what girl doesn’t love shoe shopping?!

Remember:

If you have a specific vision for your bridesmaids, that is okay! Regardless of if they are in love with the dress or not. However, a little prezzie goes a long way to sweeten the deal of a dress that isn’t the fan favorite. You could get your bridesmaids a token of your appreciation with matching jewelry, comfy bridesmaid pajamas to lounge and sip mimosas in before the big event, or a gift basket with wine and chocolate. At the end of the day, it’s your day and your bridesmaids are there to support you no matter the dress!

Use the tips above to keep all of your bridesmaids looking like the belle of the ball on your big day!

What is the best bridesmaid dress you have ever worn? How about the worst? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb13

French Rooster Mini Haul

Posted on February 13, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hello! One of my clients absolutely loves going to the Harville Flea Market, which is a treasured gem in the somewhat rural area of my neck of the woods. When it’s warm out, the gigantic parking lot is jam packed full of people peddling their goods from antiques and knick knacks to fresh produce and homemade bath and body care. Then, there is an indoor part of the flea market with actual stores set up, including French Rooster, which was added last year.

French Rooster is a cute Francesca’s style boutique with darling clothes, accessories, and trinkets. Despite it being a little too Jesus based for my liking, I ended up with two cami style tops that I am really happy with! Check it out:

Out of all of my wonderful clothes in my wardrobe, I don’t own any cami tops. I find this unfortunate, because they are such a classic staple, but I just could never find any that weren’t plain boring. These camis by Mittoshop both caught my eye because they were sexy with the lace detailing but still oh so sweet thanks to the flowy fabric. I thought that both of these tops would be perfect for Valentine’s Day weekend with my beau and many date nights to come.

Of course, the lace is gorgeous and purchasing the black cami was a no brainer. But, I am particularly fond of the oyster hued top. I love the lace detail down the front and this cami is designed with an extra piece of fabric on the inside middle so that it isn’t too revealing. As a bustier gal, I was worried that these tops would look more raunchy on me than classic but, because they are not skin tight, I can get away with it while still feeling sexy and confident with my body.

I can picture myself tucking the black cami into my Valentine’s Day themed skirt with a sharp blazer over it for date night on Friday. However, I am more looking forward to pairing one of the tops with short shorts, combat boots, my tattoos out in full glory, and frilly socks come summer time for a girly punk OOTD that emulates my style perfectly!

How do you dress for your body type? Where do you cross the line between sexy and sleazy? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb6

Marc’s Accessory Haul

Posted on February 6, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hi! An Ohio staple that all of us know and love is a discount grocery store called Marc’s. I pretty much exclusively shop there for my groceries but they are “famous” for their closeout section. You literally never know what you’re going to find in the closeouts. From holiday decor to home wear and clothes the selection varies and sometimes you can find brands from Target, if you’re lucky!

Similar to TJMaxx, every Marc’s location is different and will offer closeouts that you can’t find at another store. When shopping at a different Marc’s than my normal one with a client, I ended up with an accessory haul that cost me a whole five dollars, which I was so excited about! Take a look and let’s discuss:

I have grown increasingly fond of headbands this past year and scored my adorable emerald green bow band for FIFTY CENTS. Is it of the best quality? No. BUT, it looks awesome against my red hair and the bow is just darling for a preppy chic accessory. I also love my little boot bracelet that I plan on doubling as a hair tie for a funky vibe fresh out of the 80s.

What I am most excited about, however, are my new silver and gold necklaces that were two for a dollar. I was enamored with the chain link style material as well as all of the different styling possibilities that come with it. From layering them at different lengths to wearing them as a bracelet, headband, anklet, or hair tie, they make for a quick fix to spruce up any outfit.

There is nothing better than scoring a treat yoself purchase for a steal. I got eight new accessories for five bucks and you really can’t beat that. I’m well aware that the quality may not be as good but, styled correctly, they can end up looking like a million bucks!

What is your favorite discount store? Do you have a store similar to Marc’s in your neck of the woods? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb1

New Moon Who Dis? T-Shirt Dress

Posted on February 1, 2020 by lifewithlilred

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Hi! My boyfriend and I were recently at Hot Topic in the mall so he could pick up some new jeans and I ended up with an adorable little number, myself. Was I expecting to find a new T-shirt dress that I am obsessed with for half off? No, absolutely not. Which made this find so much sweeter that it has left me saying “New me, who dis?” to everyone I come in contact with! Lol, check it out:

Normally, I am not a huge fan of slogan T-shirts but this one was so cute I just couldn’t help myself. I love the funny phrase with all of the phases of the moon, the slouchy oversized fit, and the corset ties at the bottom. After trying it on, I knew that I was going to buy it but when it rang up for twelve dollars I wanted to buy ten more! 😀

I cannot wait for the weather to warm up so I can wear my new dress without tights on underneath because I already have my dream OOTD in mind. I’m thinking this dress, my black thigh high boots, a funky moto jacket, and bold gold jewelry for an All Black Everything ensemble sure to turn heads.

I like how this dress can be styled casually for running errands but I am particularly fond of the urban edge that it invokes with the right accessories. I always have loved the look of a little dress with super tall boots and an oversized tote bag. It creates sexy legs for days, perfect for cat walking to all of your destinations!

How would you style this T-Shirt dress? How do you get “New me, who dis?” level confidence? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

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