Tag Archives: unique

Nov15

Mix & Match OOTD

Posted on November 15, 2025 by lifewithlilred

Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! This past weekend my brother, Johnny, and I attended Akron Comicon and it was so much fun! It is our tradition to go every year together and we always look forward to geeking out in the crowd of fandom fans. At an event like Comicon, anything goes for fashion and I decided I wanted to go quirky cool with my OOTD. One of my favorite ways to make an outfit chic and unique is by mixing and matching patterns that, at a glance, might not necessarily go together. I was actually ambivalent about this look but it came together perfectly and I absolutely love how it turned out! Take a look and let’s discuss:

Who? What? Wear?

Blazer: Scotch & Soda, TJMaxx

Button Down: Karl Lagerfeld, TJMaxx

Coated Skinny Jeans: Seven Jeans, TJMaxx

Platform Boots: Dolls Kill

Purse: Foley + Corinna, TJMaxx

The earrings are from Target I think!

As I went shopping in my wardrobe department store, I had blazers on the mind and began this OOTD by browsing my options. I had been so focused on cold weather jackets that I haven’t been thinking blazers at all and honestly had forgotten about my Scotch & Soda one! Shame on me because this pajama style blazer is SO fabulous. I am totally there for that relaxed fit and the floral pattern with colors that just scream fall. This little number was definitely the move but what to pair it with?

The last thing I wanted for Comicon was a basic look so simply wearing my blazer over top a black sweater just wouldn’t do. As the vast majority of my clothing features some type of pattern or bold color, I knew I would have to get creative with mixing and matching patterns. To get started, I took a closer look at the colors in the blazer which had black as well as some lighter hues that were close enough to white. Remember, if you are mixing and matching patterns that the best way to form cohesion is by using like colors in the two pieces you are pairing.

After my double check of the blazer, I knew black and white would be the best way to go and selected my button down by Karl Lagerfeld. This top features a stark white background with classic Karl aviators in black. Initially, I thought this top was too far a cry from the blazer but put both on with a pair of high waisted skinnies anyway to see the final effect. And you know what? It worked! Between the high rise of the Seven Jeans and the coverage from the blazer, the button down didn’t look out of place as it was being overshadowed. The end result provided this really cool pop of bright white among the burnt fall hues of the blazer and it was just the quirky cool flare I was hoping for.

Finally, it was onto shoes and accessories. I wanted long legs and height to extenuate the high rise skinnies and went for a daring pair of platform boots with a vertebrae heel. They were a hit at Comicon and I liked how the color of the vertebrae accents closely mimicked some of the lighter hues in the blazer. For earrings, I chose a gorgeous pair of dangly turquoise crosses for a surprise color burst. I love turquoise and orange paired together and these looked lovely with the blazer. Last but not least, I swapped out my purse I was using to a fully neutral one by Foley + Corinna with spikes and a chain strap. With that, I was ready to go get my nerd on!

This Mix & Match OOTD was SO fun to style despite initial uncertainty. Fashion is about taking risks and sometimes they work and other times they don’t. This was a fashion risk that definitely paid off!

Is there an event you go to yearly? What is something you are looking forward to? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jun25

New Caroline Constas Flower Power Top

Posted on June 25, 2025 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! My mom and I have had TJMaxx gift cards burning a hole in our pockets and decided to have an impromptu shopping trip during my break this past Tuesday. It was just the little pick me up I needed and we had so much fun. I absolutely love going shopping with my mom, I always have and I always will and she is my partner in crime. Normally, I like to stock up on skin care when I have gift cards to spend. This time, however, I was on the hunt for new summer clothes. As a gal who loves dressing for the fall, my warm weather clothes are lacking and I have recently been lamenting over having “nothing” to wear. Happily, I found three amazing new pieces to update my summer wardrobe and I can’t wait to show all of you! Let’s get started with this gorgeous top by Caroline Constas:

When I am at TJMaxx, I browse in the junior and women’s department alike and tend to have good luck across the board. Other than a super cute crop that you will see soon, the junior’s department was doing nothing for me during this trip. Everything was so small, so short, plain ugly, or featured a tie in the front of the tops which I freaking hate lol. The women’s department was much more like it and I literally GASPED when I saw the flower power top by Caroline Constas. Once upon a time, there was a beautiful top at Urban Outfitters that I was obsessed with. It was very expensive and it didn’t come home with me. I honestly couldn’t even tell you what it looked like now, but for some reason the idea of it came to my head when I saw my new top. It was like getting a second chance at the one that got away and I was not letting it slip through my fingers again.

This cropped number is everything and it is so unique and adorable. The poppy embroidered flowers and red border over a stark white base remind me of an artist’s smock in the best way possible. And, of course, I loves me anything with balloon sleeves! This top screams fun in the sun and I cannot wait to pair it with sweet denim shorts and wedge sandals. It was a bit more expensive than I usually will spend for a top at thirty-five dollars, but it was worth every penny. There was no original price tag to compare to so I looked it up online and saw it for sale on Poshmark for one hundred and twenty-five smackers. Whatever it originally costed, I got it for a fraction of the price and you can’t beat that!

I have a feeling I will be wearing this top all summer long and it is officially one of my new favorites. Stay tuned for a brand new OOTD soon!

What is your favorite designer brand? Which stores or websites can you get the best bargains on? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May3

New Finger Tattoos

Posted on May 3, 2024 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! I had an excellent tap out tattoo session a few weeks ago by my wonderful artist, Emily, at her brand new shop called Vivid Visions. We got a ton done, but there was still a few odds and ends to complete that we didn’t have time for. I have known Emily since I was fifteen and have been a client of hers for over a decade now. We have had so many fun times in the shop together and she absolutely spoils me when it comes to tap outs. Any crazy idea I have, she is game for and is always willing to work with my schedule for touch ups and quick fillers. This past Monday, I got some vines on both of my thighs, two new delicate neck tattoos, and these adorable details on my fingers:

One of my deepest regrets about getting tattooed was that I waited SO long to get my hands done. I have only had my hand tattoos for about two years and they are, easily, some of my favorites. However, Emily and I both agreed during this tap out that they were still looking a little bare – especially on the fingers themselves. Prior to the end of my tap out session, Emily encouraged me to look up inspiration pictures, send them her way, and we would brainstorm the design when I came back to Vivid Visions.

As I browsed pages of finger tattoos, I realized that I wanted to go the minimal route with them. While the bold tattoos were awesome, I feared they would be too much because I have pretty tiny hands. At the shop, I showed Emily what I liked and what I didn’t. Then, she had me sit down and began drawing on my fingers. Before I knew it, she had brought what I was imaging in my head to real life. Emily was able to take my ideas and craft them into something that was even better than I hoped for.

Once the designs were drawn on, the tattooing began and it was easy peasy. Of course, I have an incredibly high pain tolerance but I have never had a problem with any of the tattoos on my hands before. In under fifteen minutes, my finger bling was permanent and it is such a nod to Emily’s skill. Ever since I have been her client, she has worked with masterful precision and speed and turns the smallest, most delicate tattoos into something special. ❤

It is safe to say that I am quickly running out of room for more tattoos. That doesn’t mean I don’t have a few more ideas up my sleeves, though. I can’t wait to see what Emily does with them!

What is your favorite tattoo that you have? Do you have any tattoos you regret? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr24

Should Your House Differ Dramatically In Style From Those On Your Street?

Posted on April 24, 2024 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Should Your House Differ Dramatically In Style From Those On Your Street?

If you live in a suburb, private housing area, or conventional community, odds are you have neighbors and perhaps a street where many houses are visible. In the internet of community life and connecting to the environment around you, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to style their properties so that a good balance between unique style and wider conformity is achieved. After all, it’s nice to have that aesthetic line through across the street. That might also mean sharing similar driveway designs but with its own twist, such as stone pavers lining the driveway sides or patio area.

But what if you hope to differ dramatically from those on your street? It’s your house after all, and you shouldn’t have to ask permission to enjoy a little fun. In this post, we’ll discuss a few tips for achieving the best possible outcome:

Blending In vs. Standing Out:

It may seem tough to find that sweet spot between fitting in and showing your own personality, especially if the other houses around you are, quite frankly, a little dull. But a property that sticks out too much may seem out of place and even draw attention, which could go against security and safety. An understated approach could be angling for some personal touches that provide unique value, but don’t go overboard and clash severely with surrounding aesthetics. So you may wish to paint your house pink. But if the houses either side of you are softer, pastel colors, it might work better for a lighter pastel pink that fits in, but is clear in its identity. This is just one example, but shows where to start with your planning process. If you want to stand out, CBI Design professionals can help with a redesign.

Considering Neighborhood Aesthetics:

Most communities adhere to some established aesthetic for cohesion among properties, because often, communities are built at relatively similar periods or at least “eras”. There may be unspoken (but still relevant) guidelines around home colors, lawn decor styles, or architectural designs, but you can always balance two differing opinions. Maybe you want a modernist house but are happy to curate the interior to match while offering more robust and rural exteriors to fit in among the landscape. If something happens and you need a roof repair or replacement, it can be a good idea to keep with the current traditional style of those around you to ensure you fit in.

Respecting Your Own Property:

Of course, you get to decide what you do with your own home. That being said, it can feel somewhat inspiring to allow the natural character of the home underneath to come out. If you’re looking for small wins, then you can restore certain elements of a home’s history, such as the vital function to the very unique river water wheel, unblocking the chimney, restoring the window arches, and using reclaimed wood to fashion a door that matches the period of the place. When it’s clear you’re paying utmost respect to the home, who could ever criticize you for updating parts of it to the modern age?

That being said, sometimes modern updates are necessary for comfort as well as style. If your air conditioning system isn’t keeping up with the summer heat, a quick search for “air conditioning repair near me” can help ensure your home stays cool while you focus on making it look its best.

With this advice, we hope you manage your project well, even if you implement changes for a different effect!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan8

New Rachel Roy Vest Thing

Posted on January 8, 2024 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! Tuesdays are one of my favorite days of the week because I don’t really have too much to do. I just have a short shift in the morning and later in the afternoon so I have from eleven to two thirty off. In that time, I either run errands, hang out with my parents, or work online. This past Tuesday, I decided to hit up TJMaxx because I had some Christmas gift cards and TJ rewards burning a hole in my pocket. I did a full restock of my skin care, which we’ll check out tomorrow and had just enough left over for this amazing Rachel Roy Vest… Thing? Lol take a look:

Post holiday shopping at TJMaxx is one of my favorite things to do. Until their spring shipment comes in, I feel like all of the weird stuff that didn’t sell throughout the year gets brought back out and everything is marked down. Luckily for me, I LOVE all of the weird stuff and have made some of my best purchases during this time of the year. During my rounds in the clothing department, I was searching specifically for these items and ended up finding this Rachel Roy Vest/whatever. I don’t know what it is exactly, but I did know I liked the pattern going around the edges and on the tie very much.

In the fitting room, I realized that you put this vest on like a poncho. It slips over your head so two panels of fabric are in the front and then you tie it together. Once it was on, I was completely sold! This vest is such a unique piece and I have never seen nor own anything like it. I love the traditional vest style quilting paired with the flowers in deep fall colors. The fit was also everything because after it was tied, the shoulders came jutting out and created such a cool shape. I found the only vest like this in the store and I highly doubt I’ll see anyone wearing one of them in public. This makes it feel exclusive to me and that is always a huge selling point for me because I don’t want what everyone else has!

Throughout the new year, I will be making lots of new content with Tim Misny and my Rachel Roy Vest Thing is the first thing I plan on rocking during our next shoot. I can’t wait to serve up fashion looks and a whole lot of fun!

What is your favorite day of the week? When during the year is your favorite time to shop? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Dec12

Surprise Christmas Trees

Posted on December 12, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Howdy!!! This past Wednesday, I went on a wonderful walk with my brother at the Overlook hiking trail. At this particular trail, you can stay on a paved loop that takes you to an overlook area that looks down on the Cuyahoga River or you can go rogue on a dirt path that takes you all the way down to the river. We opted to do a few rounds on the half mile loop and I am so glad that we did! During our walk, we saw two Surprise Christmas Trees and I thought it was such a cool and fun idea that I had to share it with all of you. Check it out:

The Overlook trail is completely laden with deer and it is nothing out of the ordinary to see them running through the woods or grazing in a clearing. I always say that I am on “deer patrol” on this trail and keep a vigilant eye on the wooded areas for my four legged friends. You can only imagine my surprise when we rounded a curve and it wasn’t a deer I saw, but the littlest Christmas tree (second image) tucked back behind the bigger trees. I was simply enamored with this discovery and loved the fact that someone went out of their way so creatively to spark a bit of holiday spirit for their fellow hikers.

I thought that this tiny taste of holiday magic was a one off until we found another tree (first image) with Christmas ornaments on it. I found myself wondering if it was the original tree decorator or someone else who was inspired by it and decided to do more of the same. Either way, it inspired me and my brother and we both agreed that we should bring some ornaments of our own the next time we hit the Overlook trail. Something tells me that we will be seeing a lot more ornaments upon our return because I think a lot of people will be sharing our sentiments too!

These Surprise Christmas Trees really made me smile and I hope they did the same for you. This was such a unique and special idea and maybe you’ll feel the urge to decorate on your favorite hiking trail too!

Do you like decorating for the holidays? What is your favorite holiday decoration (I love the twelve foot skeletons dressed as Santa!)? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov13

New 7 For All Mankind Dress

Posted on November 13, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!!! This past Tuesday, I spent a wonderful afternoon shopping with my mom at TJMaxx. We went with the intention of holiday shopping but, of course, we had to pick out some goodies for ourselves too!! My mom walked away with two adorable new sweaters and I had a fun haul with some new winter accessories and the 7 For All Mankind dress that we are discussing today. I was very happy to have found this dress because I had an upcoming event (on Friday the 10th) with a local celebrity thanks to this OOTD. I wanted to go all out for it fashion-wise and I knew that this dress would wow:

At the end of the day, I could have worn something to my Friday event (Which you will hear more about later!) that I already own. But where is the fun in that?! This was going to be my first time rubbing shoulders with someone famous for more than one minute and I wanted to look my best. Our gracious host is a HUGE deal in Ohio and I wanted the pictures I was going to take to not only speak to that, but my fashion too. After piling my shopping cart full of Christmas prezzies, it was onto browsing the clothing department for anything that spoke to me. I couldn’t believe the stroke of good fortune from the fashion gods themselves when I laid eyes on my new dress! There was only one in my size and it was drop dead gorgeous.

My New 7 For All Mankind Dress is everything that I love when it comes to clothing. Snakeskin is my favorite pattern, I live for faux leather, the shape was flattering, and it was an all around unique piece. I knew for a fact that no one at the event would be wearing something similar and that in itself was good enough for me. But, was it going to look good on me? Thankfully and obviously, the answer was YES lol! As soon as this dress was on, I was sold in a heartbeat. The tea length A-line skirt offered so much playful movement and the pattern was to die for. It looked amazing against my hair – especially with the navy in it. OOTD ideas began swirling through my head at a rapid pace and I always know that I have found a winner if I am being inspired that much in a TJMaxx fitting room!

I will leave my outfit musings out because you will all be seeing the end result very soon and I want it to be a surprise. Keep it locked here on lifewithlilred for all the deets on my celebrity schmooze fest coming this week!

How do you know if a piece of clothing is something you want to buy? Have you ever met a celebrity before? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov10

Different Ways To Use Metal Around The Home

Posted on November 10, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Different Ways To Use Metal Around The Home

Metal can have many practical and decorative uses around the home – including uses you may not have even considered. Beyond plumbing and beams, here are some of the different ways you can incorporate metal in your home:

Doors & Windows:

Wood and fiberglass are the two most popular options for residential doors, however metal is becoming increasingly popular due to its security advantages. Most modern reinforced doors have a steel layer in them, helping to keep burglars out. Handles and locks are almost always made of steel. Metal window frames are similarly very secure, and a lot more long-lasting than vinyl. Steel and aluminum are the two most popular metals used for window frames and can come in a variety of different colors.

Roofing:

Steel roofs are favored for their energy-efficiency, fire resistance, and longevity. They are also easier to maintain than many other roofs and relatively affordable to install. A downside is that they can be quite loud in rain or hail.

Cladding:

Aluminum panel cladding is often used to create cool accents on the exterior of modern homes. Black metal panels can look particularly stylish when contrasted against brick. They’re also waterproof, helping to protect your walls.

Railings:

Metal can be used in many railings ranging from balcony railings to banisters. It provides a very strong barrier, while also being quite light and easy to install. There are many styles of metal railing from decorative wrought iron railings to minimal chrome steel railings.

^^^ Pexels Image

Tables:

Tables can be made out of various different metals to provide a sturdy and waterproof option. Cast iron tables are a vintage option that is very heavy, which makes them ideal for the exterior in very windy backyards. Aluminum tables have a more modern look and are much lighter, making them great indoor pieces that can be easily moved around.

Bed frames:

Why choose a metal bed frame? Metal frames are typically much longer lasting than wooden frames and can take a lot more weight. They can also be lighter than wooden beds. You can buy metal single beds, double beds, and bunk beds.

Sink basins:

Stainless steel is a very common material for kitchen sink basins because it’s durable and very easy to clean. Copper can also be used as a kitchen sink material for an alternative vintage look. This looks fantastic when paired with a copper pull-down faucet.

Bath tub:

The majority of bathtubs are made from acrylic, but metal can be great for a stylish retro look. Metal can retain heat longer, resulting in baths that stay hot for ages. For those that don’t like the look of a steel tub, there are steel tubs coated in a white enamel finish as an alternative. Copper freestanding slipper baths meanwhile have a luxurious golden look.

^^^ Pexels Image

Kitchen countertops:

Professional kitchens typically use stainless steel worktops because of how hygienic and easy to clean it is. Some homes incorporate stainless steel countertops in their kitchen for the same reason. For those that don’t like the commercial look of steel, copper may be a more stylish alternative.

Light fittings:

Metal is used in many light fittings. Popular styles include pendant lights, sputnik lights, and metal chandeliers. Chrome steel is one of the most popular modem options, but brass can be used for a vintage look, while black wrought iron can give off a charming industrial vibe.

Incorporating metal into your home is a unique, chic choice and is sure to wow your guests!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jul26

Date On The Range

Posted on July 26, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! Johnny and I are still going strong with our weekend date nights and we had a literal blast this past Friday. We went to the shooting range with our downstairs neighbor and it was a hoot! Going to the shooting range is something that Johnny and I have always wanted to do together and just never did. He grew up shooting guns with his dad and I have only been to the range once in my life. We are also avid fans of the short lived competitive shooting show, Top Shot, and wanted to feel like our favorite contestants!

After finding out that our new-ish neighbor and new bestie liked to go to the range when he could, we decided to make an evening of it. We hit up Range USA in Canton, then returned back to my apartment where I cooked dinner. It was such a fun and different night out and you just can’t beat the “Friday date night” promo that Range USA runs. It’s buy one lane get one free! Check it out:

Before I went to the shooting range for the first time, I never saw the appeal of guns. After firing off a few rounds, however, I understood it and it was something that I wanted to do again. If you are in a safe and secure setting, why not? And, I hate to brag, but I did really good that first time and was eager to see if I still retained anything I learned from the pro at the range who taught me!

Once our waivers were signed, targets were purchased, and our safety gear was on, we were ready to go to our lanes. The target selection at Range USA was excellent and Johnny and I chose the shooting gallery one. Yes, because it was delightfully reminiscent of Top Shot challenges lol. Every gun I shot was a new experience and it was really cool – even though the rifle kicked like a mule. I was definitely done after four rounds and Johnny had a sore shoulder the next day.

I was really impressed with Johnny’s performance and mine wasn’t so bad, either! Johnny did so well and hit several bullseyes which was awesome to see. I was a bit disappointed with how I did, but then I remembered that this was only my second time shooting with entirely different guns. When I thought about it that way, I was proud of how I did. While I had lots of shots that weren’t on target whatsoever, I had a lot that were and felt great about them!

We had such a good time at the range that we are going to make it a thing. Every other week, we plan on hitting the range and making use of the date night special. We have even recruited two of our other friends to join our club and, of course, have dinner at my place after. Our Date On The Range was the most unique one we have been on yet and we are still chattering away about the good time that was had by all. 😀

Next weekend, it is my turn to select our date and I can’t wait for it. We are going to go shopping at some adorable boutiques in downtown Cuyahoga Falls and get Olive Garden for dinner. Long live Middle Class Fancy!!

What is your favorite competition show? What is the most unique date you have been on? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Dec15

New Joie Knit Blazer

Posted on December 15, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! My favorite piece of clothing is, easily, a good jacket. I freaking LOVE them and it never ceases to amaze me just how much they can transform an outfit by throwing one on. If I had to go more specific into which style of jacket is my favorite, then I would say: The blazer. Blazers are awesome and they can be anything that you want it to be. All business? Perfect. Business casual? Done. Date night? Easy. Running errands? Sure! From sleek and chic to sexy and sassy, blazers can be made to fit any occasion and there is really something to be said for that versatility. I have way too many blazers than I care to admit but couldn’t resist two more during my TJMaxx shopping trip! Check out the first of the two with this little number by Joie:

It’s hard for me to describe my personal style because I don’t like to limit myself to just one kind of clothing. The fun of fashion comes from trying new things and shopping at TJMaxx gives me the opportunity to be adventurous. At first glance, this new blazer is probably something that you guys wouldn’t have picked out for me to wear. And, honestly, at first glance I wasn’t completely sold on it, either. However, it never hurts to try clothes on no matter what the result ends up being because you can learn from it.

I wasn’t expecting to like this piece as much as I did prior to trying it on but it was such a game changer when it was actually on me and not on the hanger. From the way it’s made in the double breasted shape to the pattern and knit material, this Joie blazer is so unique and I have never seen anything like it before. My main fear was that the houndstooth pattern in nontraditional colors was going to look super old lady. BUT, it’s the periwinkle blue and black popping against the tawny background that make it quirky with a sweet retro touch.

The knit material of this blazer is also very cool. It offers the classic blazer shape without its sometimes unforgiving rigidity. Whether I had it buttoned or not, I could tell that it was still a blazer but just felt like a cozy knit cardigan. Can you picture settling in an armchair with a good book and a hot coffee at a cafe in this baby?! This blazer looks like going to a library or bookstore and I am so there for it.

I am excited for this new addition to my wardrobe because of all of the styling possibilities that come with it. I can picture it with a simple A-line skirt, tights, and heels for a holiday get together. I can also see myself sporting it with black skinnies and ankle length booties for work or running errands. This Joie blazer was the only one I could find in the store and I feel lucky to have gotten my hands on it! 😀

What is your favorite piece of clothing? What is something unique that you have in your wardrobe? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

	lifewithlilred on Spirit Christmas Haul
	oliveunicorn on Spirit Christmas Haul
	Simon on Thxgiving OOTD Bloopers
	lifewithlilred on Thxgiving OOTD Bloopers
	Simon on Thxgiving OOTD Bloopers