L-A-Y-E-R-S-!

Preface: I was supposed to upload this post yesterday but the post somehow got erased. I’m sorry guys. Trust me, I was beyond frustrated for the lack of a better word. Regardless, I still will be uploading Friday’s post. 

There is no doubt in my mind that winter’s cold somehow forces the unintentional organic act of layering clothes and outerwear. The thing with layering is that it can be stylish regardless of the intentions of keeping warm. The beauty of being stylishly comfortable is that can evoke a major sense of creativity. You can truly find your sense of style in the process of layer clothing. Now, personally my sense of style has been evolving lately by each month but that is to be expected and moods of what you may like to wear for months, maybe even years at a time does indeed occur. My advice when layering is to be willing to experiment. For instance, don’t be afraid to mix not only prints but colors and even “styles”. I will discuss the generalized types of styles that exist in fashion in a (very near future) later post. Perhaps then, I will do my very first look book!!! Layering can involve more than one piece of outerwear, more than one shirt, more than one kind of bottoms and even only layering accessories. I chose to layer with outerwear and a blazer.

The weather has indeed been frightful, in fact it decided to snow on the day I wore this look. That being said, I knew that I wanted to wear my fur vest. This vest is so incredibly warm and allows for the rest of my look to still shine through. My blazer is an old one from Forever 21 and it also very warm. I didn’t feel the need of a coat seeing as that the vest and blazer provides so much warmth from the brisk air. I am wearing thermal leggings…tis the season for cozy (and publicly accepted) pants lol! I wore a ruffled front ribbed tunic to further block the cold air. I opted against jewelry because the focus is truly on my layering and the comfort of this look. I chose my fave clutch, very simple and doesn’t detract from the look at all. My boots add another layer to the look in that it seems to add “weight” to the bottom of the outfit by the look of the wedge. I hope you guys get where I’m going with this. Anyhoo, even the suede of the boots offers a layer sort to speak against the look of the fur. My goal was to create a balance throughout the look and still be cozy. This look is intentionally slightly masculine because I am in the woods (and I wanted to portray a lumber jack effect {insert wink smiley face emoji}) but you can make this look a bit more feminine by simply changing the hat and the color of the plaid shirt or blazer. So let me know what you think of this look!! How do you layer? What is your favorite way to keep warm? I will see you back here tomorrow…yep, I am still uploading Friday’s look!

 

Later Cupcakes!!

 

Black Ribbed Tunic: DOTS, (similar here). Vest & Blazer: Forever 21 (similar blazer here). Boots: Justfab (similar here). Leggings: . Hat: Boohoo (similar here). Earrings: H&M (similar here). Clutch: American Apparel

Anti-Prep 

Disclaimer: I apologize for the extremely late post.

I finally look my height (5′ 4″), and I must say that I’m excited lol. I just had to throw that in there. Okay, so business as usual. My look. I wanted to wear a sweater/button up blouse look but the problem with that is you end up looking preppy whether you want to or not. That is definitely not the look I am going for. That being said, I opted for sleeveless sheer blouse with a collar instead of the predictable non-sheer white solid. To further step away from the traditional prep look, I grabbed a bomb statement necklace I purchased from Purple Love. This necklace packs a “pow” factor that counters the normal dainty necklace or scarf that would be worn with the prep look. Quite rebellious huh? Lol. That’s the exact point.

Style is all about tweaking looks that aren’t “you” to make them just the way want to express your personality perfectly. That’s what makes styling fun. I threw on a hat on my messy pony for flirty but youthfully stern look. My boots are combat-like booties, high in heel, they give me a longer, leaner silhouette (even though I am getting thinner) and anyone can get that effect. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed!

Now that you’ve seen what I’m wearing, let me know what you’re wearing or were wearing this Friday night!

Later Cupcakes!!

Sweater: H&M (similar here). Blouse: F21 (similar here). Jeans: Fashion Nova. Booties: Justfab. Necklace: Purple Love (sold out but similar necklace on the site). Earrings: H&M (similar here). Bracelets: Layered Chains

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January First!

It’s 2016 already!! Geez time has really flown by. 2015 was a very difficult year and I am glad that some things are now the past. The things that matter to me are the things that money simply can’t buy. I started planning for 2016 back in 2015 and I must say that I am so ready to start doing things that I planned. I don’t have new years revolutions, every single day is always one that I use to do better than I did the day before.

I can’t say that I didn’t learn a lot last year. This blogging thing has opened my eyes to people even more and has opened up the romantic idea of myself. There are things that I would love to change physically at times but the most important changes are always the ones that I choose to make inside. The secret person of the heart. I am going to continue to make the strides that I started making in 2015, this year is no different than any other when it comes to making the best out of becoming the very best that I can be. Life has made many adjustments, un-forseen things have happened. I’m a better mom and wife than I was this time last year, I am very proud that my husband and children are proud of me. I’ve outgrown overdue friendships and grown into new ones where I actually feel cared for, not by things or money but by true love and support coupled with understanding.

This post is not really about what I am wearing on the outside, rather what I am wearing on the inside. My heart. I feel loved. I feel inspired. I feel beautiful. I feel brilliant. I feel grateful. That is all that matters. My outfit was one that I wore out with one of my dear friends. It was the last hang out of 2015 and I was comfy the entire time.It’s stylish but it shows how relaxed I felt in my heart. I can’t wait to celebrate more of nothing more than simple moments, not over exaggerated by fancy clothes, over the top parties, faux friendships. Just honesty. Simplicity. One day at a time. So much to accomplish but before I get ahead of myself, let’s do January first!

Later Cupcakes,

Candy.

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The 411…

When you think of the 90s, what comes to your mind?

I remember as a teenager being at the skating rink, listening to some of the best house or R&B music and watching now iconic television shows movies at the show just to name a few things. I’ve been in “back in the day” type mood. I miss the simplicity the 90s offered in fashion as well as makeup and beauty trends. Barely were there limits on fashion but seeing as the 80s involved so many dated trends, the lack luster push of trends in the 90s was quite refreshing lol. I loved wearing chokers (velvet to be exact), crop tops, knee high boots, hoop earrings, high waisted jeans that weren’t spandex, dark lipstick, dark eyeliner and no eyeshadow, white eyeliner…

I seriously could go on and on. I know, I know, “we don’t have that kind of time” is probably what you’re saying. I hear you lol!! Okay so I was inspired to wear an outfit reminiscent of the 90s but I tweaked it and made it modern. So here’s the 411 hun…

My skirt is vintage, purchased from a shop online, Yesterday’s Love. This skirt is truly the highlight for me. It’s on trend but a classic piece at the same time. I decided to wear it with a vintage (100% pure silk) jacket that I purchased years ago from a seller on eBay. My crop top is part of a two piece set (and I believe in separating pieces to acquire the look I want) from Naked Wardrobe. I bought the set sometime in 2014. My boots are a footwear favorite and my jewelry screams 90s style!! I am in love with my half moon shaped “open” bangle. It adds another layer of 90s flava…yup, I said flava!! Lol!!! (90s slang). My hair is a low pony, I had it in a knot and took it down for a bouncy effect. All in all, I loved how each detail came together. Let me know what you think! New outfit post Friday…

Bye Cupcakes!

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below: a clip from the 90s movie in my head…

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Style Lusts #3

Sidenote: This series had to briefly be interrupted pending personal obligations. It is now being resumed for regular weekly posts. Thank you all for being patient!! 

I’m totally ready for spring at this point even though it isn’t really cold here in Michigan. That being said, excuse me on this particular post because I have my mind in the gutters of spring lol.

1. Block High Heeled Sandals:

I have been so drawn to these kind of heels lately and I have no idea why. They are so sexy!!! I bought a new pair and I can’t wait to share!! Block heels generally compliment all leg shapes and sizes and a bit more stable to walk in than skinny heels. If you aren’t sure how to chose block heels, gravitate towards open toe shoes first. Other block heels can look old fashioned if you’re not careful so grab a modern design of a sandal with a block heel. You should be good to go!!

2. White Eyeliner:

It may be a beauty faux pas but I am slightly obsessed with white liner. For some reason, I have been loving the way white liner makes the eyes pop and brighten up the face. I’ve worn white liner in the past but we all know the makeup world has advanced leaps and bounds in the past few years lol. I’m going to go ahead and do a makeup look with white liner and post it on my IG. Just a tip: if you try it, draw a really thin line on your upper lash line or dab a light wash of it in the inner corner of the eyes.

3. Colorful Printed/Sequin Jackets & Blazers:

Lately I’ve been seeing an influx of something on the fashion scene that I’ve had in my closet for years: a sequin blazer/jacket. You can actually dress down a sequin jacket. Yes!! Who knew, right?!! I absolutely love the way sequin jackets look. You don’t even have to wear it to a formal event. Throw it on with a graphic tee, jeans and barely there heels for a poppin look!! My advice: hit the thrift stores and eBay for a great vintage sequin jacket!!

4. Large Buckle Belts/Wide Belts:

Who doesn’t want a cinched waist? I know I love a cinched waist!! I think wide belts and particularly ones with large buckles will make a comeback. Technically by my standards, they’ve never gone out of style. With the perfect fit and flare dress, this type of belt adds all the extra sass. I like simple yet statement belts. Sometimes it can be the single source of the wow factor in a look!!

5. Trench Coats/Denim Jacket:

Yup!! I’m obsessed!!! I love denim dresses and trench coats nowadays. I don’t know what it is but I’ve got to get my hands on both!! Both of these will transition nicely from (warm) winter right into the fall. You can take away the boots, add open  toe heels and voila!!! Instantly a hot look!! I personally love a princess cut of a trench coat and denim dress. It adds femininity to something deemed so masculine.

Concrete Jungle/Early “Winter” Safari

It’s almost winter!! Can you guys believe it?!!

Fall seriously came and went rather quickly. I truly made an effort to enjoy autumn this year. I went to the cider mill, ran through a corn maze, sat by a bon fire, played in the leaves and indulged in cider and donuts just to name a few. I must say, the fall is one of my favorite seasons. We are literally less than two weeks away from the winter time. Normally, I would be dreading it but I’m actually welcoming the season this year. As a blogger, it’s always nice to make use of the opportunity to dress for the current season. Here in Michigan, it’s been quite warm lately. Our temperatures have been in the 50s generally. I am aware that this is due to El Niño and normally I’d probably be bundled up in about ten layers of clothing and outerwear lol.

Since it’s warmer, I don’t always reach for a jacket. One occasion that I don’t was just discussed in my last post. Check that out if you haven’t already. (Insert cheesing smile emoji). One of the other occasions would include wearing a fur vest. I’ve had this vest for over a year. In fact, I’ve worn it in another outfit. Fur vests are extremely cozy and warm. They also provide a nice cover for those that might not want to bare  their body’s silhouette but want to be fashionable. They give an extra layer to any outfit without taking over the look. Don’t be afraid to layer over jackets, maxi vests, rompers, etc.

I opted to wear mine with an off the shoulder bodysuit, high waisted pants, and high heeled mules. My vest has pockets which I love! I can leave my handbag at home if I like and carry my essentials on me. The belt was thrifted and looks to be Gucci inspired but I picked it up because it goes perfectly with this look. It adds a perfect pop of color. Let me know if this look is something you’d wear! I’d love to hear!! Until tomorrow for a couple of reviews…

Bye Cupcakes!!! 💋

Vest: Forever 21. Top: Urban Outfitters. Pants & Belt: thrifted. Shoes: Justfab. Earrings: Layered Chains. Necklace: Forever 21.

That Gray Area…

Lately, I’ve been drawn to certain colors naturally. I end up picking up wardrobe pieces that are the same color. Ugh, the dilemma right? Well, I am happy about this particular outfit because I picked up a few pieces in my color of the moment, gray. I picked these pieces up all at different times but all the pieces compliment one another for a calm and cozy look. I felt so relaxed in this look. I bought this turtleneck poncho a little more than a month ago. It kept me warm and kept me from needing outerwear. My only gripe is that it get wrinkled very easily and by the time I get to my destination, it never looks like it was ironed at all.

There’s always that gray area of times when you may not need outerwear. When wearing capes, things get tricky. Not every cape is a good fit for outerwear. If the cape is too thin and you live in a colder area, you may not want to wear a cape without a coat. The idea of a coat over a cape sounds crazy but it’s worse to be freezing, that’s not cute! It was about 50 degrees when I wore my cape so I didn’t need to wear anything else. Of course, I did wear a tank under my cape for good measure but I was comfortable. You have to decide if weather permits a cape alone along with making sure the fabric fits the weather as well as the style fitting the occasion. I could have worn this cape as outerwear but it isn’t warm enough for less than 50 degrees in my opinion. In colder weather, you’d want something warmer.

I paired this cape with some high waisted jeans and a tank from H&M. My boots are old and fur cuffed. I honestly don’t remember where I purchased them because it’s been longer than a decade that I’ve purchased them. My earrings are simple but make a delicate fashion statement. I chose a large statement necklace that is quite glamorous to fancy up the look. The gold stands out against the gray. I grabbed one of my fave handbags from Justfab and again the tan color contrasts the outfit but also warms up the look. Let me know what you think of this look. I will be back here on Wednesday of course for another outfit post.

Bye Cupcakes! 💋

Poncho & Jeans: Forever 21. Necklace: eBay. Earrings: Layered Chains. Handbag: Justfab. 


Sun, Snow & Shade

I’ve lately been trying to figure this weather thing out. Now, I know I said it was about 45 to 55 degrees lately but just a couple of days ago it snowed. Ugh. I am simply never ready for snow. It has been cloudy much with peeks of sunshine here and there. I decided to make my own sunshine, hence the luxurious, golden velvet top. I adore this top because it can be worn to both classy and casual events. I wanted to take my look more to the casual side so I opted to layer and add the typical aspects of a casual outfit.

My boots are a velvet type material, meant to substitute for suede. They can be worn as knee high or unfolded for the thigh high look. I love the sleekness of this boot, it screams an understated sexy. I admit I was feeling a bit trendy so I decided on grabbing my denim button down shirt and tying it around my waist. At the same time of adding a casual flair, it works to accent my waist and silhouette. The skirt you may remember from an outfit post from earlier this year, (I keep pieces that add versatility to my wardrobe).  This skirt hugs curves and compliments the shape. I love it! My jewelry is fairly simple and streamlined. I am wearing a gold knot bagel from Layered Chains and an arrow choker necklace from Neon Wild. I added a black scarf from my accessories stash for a measure of extra layering. If you wear something like this you can add a leather jacket or wear the denim as a jacket instead of around the waist. I wouldn’t wear this out normally without a coat but I am for demonstrative purposes. Sun and snow (and rain) inspired this outfit. The shade…well, that was due to impending snow showers. Wahh!!! After all, it is November/December so I’m not complaining lol. Let me know what you think!

Until tomorrow for a review of my most recent beauty favorites….

Bye Cupcakes!!! 💋

Velvet Top: ASOS. Skirt: Love 21. Denim Top: Walmart. Choker: Neon Wild. Bangle: Layered Chains. Boots: CiciHot. Scarf: Goodwill (new).

 

“In Living Color”

*As promised, here is more of a complicated look.* (wink)

So lately I’ve been in a mood for simple looks with calming colors. However, I have to insert looks here and there that make the eyes dance! I enjoy colors so much!! I mean, there are so many colors in life so why not explore and live in color? (Insert colorful heart emojis here). I found the main event sort to speak, of this outfit while out thrifting. There is absolutely nothing like finding a great piece that stands out. The piece I found is actually a short dress but it is way too short for my taste to wear as such. Therefore, I am wearing it as a tunic.

The colors are so bold and bright that I wanted to highlight them even more by grabbing a contrast print. I chose a black and white chevron clutch bag by Turquoise Soul Bags. The black and white really forces the bold colors of the tunic to pop. You can’t help but to notice both and in an unexpected way, they compliment each other. Since the weather is between 45 and 55 degrees lately, wearing a leather jacket is opportunistic without the threat of freezing. I opted for one of my fave black ones. I decided on some knee high open toe lace up boots on top of black leggings to complete the ensemble for an illusion of wearing just a short dress and tights. Modesty. For a funky kick, I am wearing a hat I bought earlier this year from Boohoo. The hat adds more of an eclectic yet structured touch. The gold cuff choker keeps the look in a glamorous balance. My jewelry is minimal so as so not take away from the stylist-ic (made that up lol) look of the outfit. Let me know what you think!! I welcome comments!! If you are not, follow me on Instagram, I always post my looks there plus some things I don’t post to my blog. Thank you in advance for your feedback and don’t forget to join me back here Friday for another outfit post!

Bye Cupcakes!! 🍭

Colorful top: (Vintage) Goodwill. Jacket: Thirifted. Hat: Boohoo. Bag: Turquoise Soul Bags. Boots: UrbanOg (old). Choker: Aldo. Leggings & Tank: H&M.

La Fourrure

Despite what my calendar says, the weather says it’s officially winter. It’s about 45 degrees and to me, that’s fur weather. Well, almost. I decided to go against the grain a bit and wear a fur shawl instead of a full on fur. Furs are extremely warm for bitterly cold climates and you won’t need much more outerwear coverage than that.

I bought this fur a couple years back while thrifting. The only thing I don’t like about it is the bit of shedding it does. I need to get the fur conditioned (treated) and it’ll be fine. To have that 1930’s bit of flair, I thought the fur would look awesome with a big floppy hat, a clutch bag, fur booties and simple basic outfit. Turtlenecks are my “thing” this season so this navy blue one is perfect against my “lace down the leg” leggings. Pretty simple right? That’s the point. I’ve been trying to show that you don’t need much to put together a haute look. I promise I’ll complicate my looks starting with the next look!!  *wink* My hat color is intentional to give some nudeness to an otherwise dark look. The brightness of the shawl gives the perfect tinge of elegance on an otherwise casual look. I didn’t want to take away or add anymore to the look so wearing my favorite black American Apparel clutch. Let me know what you think!! I’d love to hear from you!!!

Until tomorrow for another “Style Lusts” post….

Bye Cupcakes!!! 💋

Shirt: JCP. Pants: Karmaloop (old).  Booties: Shoedazzle (old). Hat: Gadzooks (old). Shawl: Thrifted. Earring Studs: H&M.