Mineral Bath, Roosevelt Baths and Spa, Saratoga Springs, NY

In January, Erin and I, along with our mutual friend "J" all got together for a girls' overnight.  It was J's and my first overnight as moms and Erin somehow convinced both of us to go AND coordinated the whole trip.  Erin had heard about mineral baths in Saratoga Springs, New York.  Saratoga Springs is a cute little historic town where the Roosevelt Baths and Spa is along with the National Museum of Dance.  It's only about three hours from us so just the right distance for an overnight.  I didn't know a whole lot about mineral baths before our trip.  I read that they help soothe inflammation within the body, aid digestion, and are very relaxing.  I was sold when I read "relaxing.'

Our baths were scheduled for 4pm at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa.  We had trouble finding the building and once we got there we were a little rushed.  I was a little apprehensive because I didn't know what to expect.  I'd packed a bathing suit because I wasn't sure if it was a large, public bathing area or what.  I was happy that each bath is done privately in a large, private bath tub..  Massages are done in the same rooms so there are massage tables near the tubs.  The tubs didn't look fancy as I would have expected at a spa but that was ok.  The rooms are dark for relaxation and I was also surprised to see that the bath water was dark and kind of murky from the minerals in the water.  The spa attendant warned us about the water but it was still shocking to see and be in at first.  I couldn't see the bottom and that kind of freaked me out.  It took me about ten minutes in the tub, which was thankfully warm, to relax.  The mineral bath was naturally effervescent and had an odor.  It wasn't unpleasant, just different.  I'm not going to lie, for the first ten minutes in the bath I was not relaxed or comfortable at all.  I couldn't get past the water not being clear and the there was a lot of noise from the other rooms and people in the hallway.  Then suddenly magic happened!  I utterly, totally and completely relaxed.  It was pure bliss.  My mind let go, my body floated, the bubbly water felt like heaven in the tub.  For a half hour i relished every second of the deep relaxation I was in.  Almost a month later and I am still day dreaming about the awesomeness in those thirty minutes.  If you ever get the opportunity to check out the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, I highly recommend you do so.  It's affordable, at $40 for a forty minute bath, and the other spa services were competitively priced.  I didn't get a massage or any other spa services, but the sauna and relaxation room were nice.  You can find booking information here.

Have you ever had a mineral bath or visited a hot spring?  Drop a comment below and let me know your experiences!

-Michelle

2017 Trends Have Me SMH

Trends come and trends go. Some are fun, and some aren’t my fav.  Lately though, my mind has been blown with what’s  around the corner this winter.  A lot of beauty bloggers I watch who have impeccable taste, know the good and bad makeup products, fashionable attire, and even tasteful home décor have been doing clothing hauls straight out of my closet of 1997….my closet door that had Seventeen magazine pictures of Leonardo DiCaprio, Antonio Sabado Jr, LeAnn Rimes and Puff Daddy taped to it.

Recent photos and videos highlighting wide corset resembling belts paired with an oversized sweatshirt dress or ripped up sweater. Even more surprising is the Tommy Hilfiger sweatshirts and hats, Calvin Klein tees, and Adidas sweatshirts.  Any and everything I would have been considred #1 dork over the past few years has now returned among the top trends.  In awkward middle school days, in the late 90s some of these were acceptable but added to the awkward look of acne faced teens.  I’m waiting any day for the U-shaped bangs to return.  Actually I think I will wing out the hair left of part by my ear and do the big U shaped hair hardened with hair spray on the right of my side part. This way I will be the trend setter before it takes shape in the months to come. Adidas pants were not cool just a short item ago, underwhelming compared to Lululemon, Lorna Jane, Under Armor, Nike, Carbon 38, Alo yoga, Bombshell brands and more.  The fact that pants sold at Costco have just returned to high fashion all of a sudden is great for our wallets, especially if you still have your 90s tees. I am waiting for the EXP inside out sweatshirts to make their return.  When I was in high school, fashion wasn’t a big deal.  Abercrombie & Fitch started a bit more emphasis on brands, but baggy jeans and flannel shirts were in fashion and that was that.

I hope children growing up now will have a harder time being unpopular based on their clothing since everything is or just was a trend.  Chokers, velvet, suede, fur, short jeans, tight jeans, flare jeans, boyfriend jeans, every toe shape on a shoe, patent leather, all are trendy, so it’s a win win. Jean jackets, moto jackets, bomber jackets, varsity jackets. You can’t be out of style in 2017, which is sort of impressive, and probably tough on designers.  

Either way I hope you enjoy some of my throwbacks.  Please try to look past the quality of photos back then. We barely took them, and these were probably taken on a disposable camera but this is what I found. Follow me on the insta and maybe I will recreate these looks! I quite possible might be able to pull them off without my braces, pimples, and ill fitting bongo jeans rolled up. If champion sweatshirts return with white turtlenecks, I just can’t go that far, but then again, if everyone’s doing it…

  @erinroefit

Calvin Klein t-shirt on the way to London with the drama club. 

Funny I'm in front of Christian Dior accessories at the airport.

That fabric band digital sport watch was my favorite, but I can't find the brand! (age 16)

Adidas pants and Adidas sneakers in London (age 16)

Why I wore a ski jacket to London in April, I have no idea.

Velvet dress, the last time it was cool.

Probably 10th grade based on the hair cut.

Me as a typical teenager in the 90s. (Age 15)

Follow me @erinroefit

All Aboard NY Fashion Week Event

The night of Monday September 12th was filled with more than the typical hustle and bustle of New York because it was New York Fashion Week! I arrived at Pier 81, conveniently next to the ferry I hitched a ride from across the Hudson River to attend the Chasing Sunsets 2017 Fashion Show. I boarded a 160ft yacht, known as the "Fish Bar," in honor of the brand's designer Margaux's father Freddy and his love for the ocean, fishing, and travel.  Every guest was adorned in trendy New York fashion, both daring yet simple, showcasing each attendees individual style. I took in every sight and sound of the city as the sun was slowly setting. Back home, Michelle and I are the only out-of-the box-ers, risking fashion trends that stand out from the ordinary within our circle of friends in the country towns where we reside.  On Monday night, my eyes widened with delight as I saw individualism and personality all around me, including what I call hammer pants paired with pointy toe stilettos, a high waisted tea length circle skirt paired with a sheer cami and caged chunky heeled booties, and more unique pairings which add to New York's lively energy. After checking in with the guest list attendee, we were escorted on board and toured the 3 level yacht. We settled in at the bar listening to a live singer, hired just for the event.  We were enjoying the ambiance where we were anxious to get the first ever look at the Spring Summer 2017 collection by clothing brand Karma For A Cure by Margaux.  I have multiple items from Karma's SS16 line and the soft high quality fabrics are ever-lasting.  Her Fall/Winter 2016 should soon be available at www.KarmaForACure.com come October and I will be checking daily for it's arrival, as well as checking boutiques that carry the elevated resort-wear made to set sail and chase the sun. The event was hosted by Hooch, and after the show, we gathered on the top deck as the yacht set sail for a tour of the beautiful New York skyline.  With wine in hand, the city lights shined bright, & it was an exquisite event with exquisite fashion.  Take a look!

~Erin

*All opinions belong to the blogger, and the post was not sponsored or endorsed.

Denim

I came across this piece while 'browsing.'  It's not something I had seen before and if someone described it, I wouldn't be interested.  my eyes narrowed in on it though, I stopped scrolling, and took another look.  I probably liked that it was different.  Of course my eclectic mind added a different look.  I pictured it with over-the-knees boots and a smokey eye with nude lip.  I thought of all the denim pieces that were just too much of a reach to be stylish, such as Michelle's post of denim jumpsuits, the long denim skirts, the short denim skirts that came and quickly left the fashion scene, but I didn't care.  You may also remember from my fringe post here that I hold a strong opinion against the ever so popular jean jacket.

This piece stuck out to me.  It looked comfortable too.  I found the doppelganger first, but it turned out I had stumbled across a close dup to the Alexa Chung Pixie Dress by Adriano Goldschmied, a highly sought after piece with a high price tag, which I'll show you first.  Sidenote:  I'm a huge fan of AG's jeans!

This can be bought here.

I received my dup and really like the look it will provide against every other girl's all black outfit or typical jeans and boots look I will see surrounding me this winter.

This was purchased online from Forever 21 but the label says it's made by Life in Progress, which is such a creative name.
It can be found here.

-Erin

*All products mentioned were personally purchased and not endorsed.  Photos found online.

Jumpsuit Journey

Jumpsuits have been in for awhile now and I have been lusting after one!  I think they are so chic and so easy to dress.  I am a huge Project Runway fan and there have been so many cute jumpsuits on recent seasons.  "Kelly From The Deli" who was runner up this past season, season 14, made so many cute, funky jumpsuits and reawakened my semi dormant jumpsuit dream.

In my last post ( read it here ) I talked about trying to find an outfit with bell sleeves and was partly interested in a romper with a bell sleeve.  Well, my search for a romper in the Fall in NJ ultimately led me also trying on jumpsuits.  Prior to this month, I had all but given up on jumpsuits.  I had tried on too many to count without finding one that was right.  Project Runway was fresh in my mind and I was trying to stuff anyway so I figured "why not?" and tried on a few.  As usual, they weren't fitting.  My body is still a weird size and I am petite, only 5'2", so it's hard to find pieces that aren't too long without needing major alterations.

Lo and behold, as I was leaving the mall empty handed, an 80% off sign at Macy's caught my eye.  I stopped to glance through the rack just in case and grabbed a couple dresses to try on.  At that point I was desperate!  I also grabbed two jumpsuits.  I didn't check labels or prices.  At that point as long as it fit and looked ok then it was going home with me.

It was a miracle!  One of the jumpsuits fit me perfectly!  It didn't need hemming, is comfortable, and flatters my changing body.  I actually did a happy dance in the fitting room.  The jumpsuit is by Nicole Miller from her Nicole line.  It was marked down to $15.99!

I ended up wearing it to the wedding I attended in California.  I didn't get many good pictures of myself but here is the best:

I planned on wearing black, patent leather heels but at the last minute switched to sandals because the ceremony was outdoors in a grassy area.  I was afraid of tripping while holding my baby if I wore heels.  i don't think the sandals are awful-  I just always think heels are better!  I accessorized with a sparkly headband from Forever 21 and my sparkliest earrings.  A necklace would have been good too but impossible with a baby.  My lipstick is Mac's Russian Red which is one of their matte shades.  I really like it.

-Michelle

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Halloween 2015

Thanks to Michelle's extensive wardrobe and dance background, my Halloween costume came together easily because of her!  It was an easy DYI low budget costume, and gave me a reason to wear an overload of pink!

One of my Beachbody friends posted a link for how to screen print here!  I bought the supplies I needed at Michael's, and gave it a try!

As for my makeup, I first applied the NYX stick in Milk, and added MakeUpGeek's shadow in  Ice Queen.  I added pink NYX lipliner as on my eyes and muted it with pink Loreal shadows.  The final touch of LimeCrime velveteen liquid lipstick in pink velvet topped off the look!  It stayed on so well I woke up with it still on, even after a shower!  I wrote about this lipstick here!

Did you guess my costume yet?  I was Workout Barbie!

Since I'm a health coach for a living, I thought it was fitting, but I also thought of it on a deeper level.  You see, Barbie can be anything she wants to be.  How many different Barbie's did you have growing up?  THIS latest controversial ad really struck me, but not as controversial.  I found it empowering.  The very reason I took the leap to become a Beachbody coach came to mind, and this ad stands behind my beliefs that a person can be anything he or she wants to be and should not conform to society's beliefs.  I coach for my love of helping people.  I coach because I can decide my own goals and reach them for myself.  I coach to make my own rules.  If you are open to hearing about an opportunity to do the same, to be present at home with your family, to make a financial contribution to your family and their future, to be inspirational, to be healthy and get paid to do so, to be your own boss, my team will welcome you!  Check us out HERE!  I coach to achieve happiness in the one life I was given.  I coach to make a difference and leave a legacy, just like Barbie.

~Erin

*No items mentioned were sponsored, and opinions belong to the blogger.

Bell Sleeves-LOVE!

It's no secret that the 70s are back.  Boho, maxi skirts and now bell sleeves are in.  I adore bell sleeves.  I always have!  There's just something so fun about them!

Bell sleeves add visual interest to basic dresses.  The silhouette given by bell sleeves is gorgeous.  I love the way that bell sleeves photograph.  While they are fun to add to an everyday outfit, I think they are even more awesome when saved for special events.  I am attending a wedding in a couple of weeks and spent this past week searching for just the right outfit.  Boy, was that a challenge!

Again, I recently had a baby and my body is still "settling" for lack of a better word.  I find bell sleeves so beautiful and with the wedding being the only special occasion on my upcoming calendar, I definitely wanted something with a bell sleeve. I probably tried on 15 different tops and dresses with bell sleeves but didn't purchase any for the wedding.  None of them were functional for that particular day and venue.  In their defense, part of the issue was geography; shopping for a dress in New Jersey for a Fall wedding in Southern California was not easy.  Sweaters and down coats fill our stores but it is still 80 degrees in Orange County.  Whomp whomp!

I pictured myself in a dress or even romper with lace bell sleeves.  I've never owned a romper or anything with lace bell sleeves.  I tried on a few different options but nothing was right.

I tried this blue dress from Francesca's:

I had high hopes that it would fit me but it was a bit long for my petite frame.  The bottom and sleeves would need hemming and I was afraid too much of the lace would be removed to give it the look I like.  The color was beautiful though!

I pictured myself in something like this:

Since I didn't have a lot of time to wait for shipping I tried to find something like it at the mall.  This particular one is one I saw on the Nordstrom's website but I don't live near a Nordstrom so I couldn't try this one on.  I went in nearly every store but nothing fit or was like I pictured.  I was so frustrated!

On a different day I saw a similar dress at Marshalls.  Of course I LOVED the sleeves but they were out of my size.  This one is by Free People and actually much prettier.  I am half tempted to order it.

Anyway, I gave up.  Bell sleeves were not meant to be in my life this month.  I found another outfit with a tulle skirt and cream colored top.  I am still working on shoes but I will post a photo of the whole outfit when I get it together.

-Michelle

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*Photos courtesy of Nordstrom.com, Francesca's and Free People.

Do you cringe upon fringe?

Things I would have been made fun of for growing up are the most popular things now, and I love everyone's ability to throw away their inhibitions and dress in their unique styles! On the other hand, I feel like everyone dresses the same, and all the stores have the same plaid shirt (that looks like my childhood pajamas).  Fashion is just that, contradictory.  
So many styles are popular nowadays and trends change so often that I feel like for years to come, I will never dress out of style because I'm likely to incorporate at least something that must still be in with the ever changing rotating door of trends.  There are so many options now!  Anything goes in the fashion world, as long as the owner wears it with confidence, and that's how it should be!  After all, it's just material things and doesn't define the wearer.  Even though each season brings a handful of specific must haves, if I wear trends from 2 seasons ago, half of us are still wearing them and I'll still be on fleek.  Wait, that's over with, no one says that anymore.  SMH.  Mixing and matching styles labels Gen X as creative, and I admire Gen X's bravery in fashion.  It helps to know that even though I'm choosing to not update my wardrobe as often, I will still be on trend with a few of my past purchases which people will most likely mix in with the up and coming fashions still unknown.  

One of the Fall 2015 trends is fringe.  My first reaction was a hard no.  HARD.  NO.Why you ask?Think of Kelly Kapowski and cavaricci days.  Too young to relate?  Think 80s baby.  Big hair, stonewash (acidwash) jeans.  (I actually bought a pair of jeans in the 90s with the stone still in the pocket, but now they are called acid wash jeggings).Here's some SAT prep for you.Stretch pants are to leggings as stonewash front pleated jeans are to acidwash skinnies.Tomato=tomatoThis is why fringe had me at a hard no.

(photo found circulating many Pinterest boards)
When YouTube's fall haul videos included fringe, it was not at all flattering to me.  (First off, denim jackets never match the color blue of my jeans, unless I was to buy and wear an entire matching outfit and wear it often, as in every day I wear my jean jacket.  I hold my stance that I will never like jean jackets).  That aside, my thoughts on these YouTuber's fringe purchases was itchy tickle-y skin all day long.  When the wind blows and my hair brushes my arm that's enough, but to have stringy hairs hitting my arms or legs all day could drive me to drink.  Plus it removes any figure you may have.Just no.  Then the YouTuber's found V shaped fringed tops, crops, dresses, and skirts.  Many looked like Halloween costumes from some cheap store.  Some were made of suede.  I already fell in love in suede before it even took over department stores and low end stores all over the mall this month.  The awakening of the suede fringe is what changed my mind.  My love of suede persuaded me.  I used a pun.I fell for it and bought this faux fringe trim vest in tan at Macy's and thought it'd be cute with jeans, as pictured.  I pictured this pairing to be subtle despite the trend of the ever so common what I will call 'hippie takeover' with low boots, floral flowy dress, a scarf, a headpiece, and colored mis-shapen plastic sunnies, as if I was supposed to pile on all of my belongings and look as though I was on my way to hop into a van for a summer touring of a desert music fest, or nowadays called carnival.A perfect example of the contradiction of the popularity of anything going in fashion, and everything being in style at once and for quite some time to come.
Brand: INC International Concepts
I also bought this faux suede jacket at Kohls.

Brand: Rock and Republic

I had fallen upon these items and thought I was good on the fringe.  At least I could fit in with my peers, even if I calmed down the trend by wearing it with solids and a neutral lip instead of a vampy, black, or even green matte lip which is seen often now.  Then I saw the red sign in the hallway luring me into the store.  I wasn't even on the same floor!  I was upstairs, and the words from down below over the railing 'extra 30%' dove out into my eyes as if I was in an iMax theatre wearing 3D glasses.  I even passed the smell of Chipotle as I raced down the mall stairs and entered Express.  Extra 30%! The store is so organized with having the sale items perfectly broken down according to size, every single time.  There's no messing up that stores rack system, and it makes for ease of shopping!  I saw 'it.'  I thought 'it' was only okay, so I didn't touch 'it.'  'It' looked soft though.  My arm was full of other things I knew 100% I would be putting back and not purchasing, but I liked picking out the pieces I admired to see if I would grow affectionate toward them while they were sitting so close to my heart, but alas I did not, so I put them back.  Who am I kidding, I tried them on over my workout pants in the dressing room, as if that made it as if I wan't officially trying anything on since I was 'just looking.'  I somehow, and I don't even remember doing it, added 'it' to my heavy arm full, snuck into an open-doored room, which is not easy to come by in that store, and plopped my heavy pile onto the stool.  I didn't lie, it all went back on the sale rack, except 'it' fit like a glove.  I liked 'it's' look.  'It' was buttery soft too.

     

Brand: Express

Here's the thing.  The arms did not have fringe so I knew they wouldn't be slopping into my panera soup when Michelle and I go and get the quinoa bowl.  Arm fringe is just like a dirt collector and knowing me I would get caught in an elevator pinned against the ceiling, breaking a heel when I fell back onto the floor, jacket hanging from the top slit of the elevator door.  Yes, I'm that spastic.  Okay maybe that's exaggerating, but it would get caught in the car door, and then I'd walk away and it'd rip and this would be while on a Tinder date and end up on YouTube because someone next to me would have been vlogging themselves walking, because that is what we do in 2015, document our every move. Awwww snap(chat).The arms did not have fringe and the back had straight fringe, both very different than the 80s style.  This jacket had no V shape to emphasis the V shaped seam on the rear of our high waisted front pleated jeans that led to our tri-colored slouch socks and LA gear high tops with double laces of two different colors.  Did I just find modern faux leather fringewear? Fringewear I now adore you.  I can make you sophisticated with sharp black skinny jeans and black stilletos whether it be pointy toed pumps or peep toe booties (even though it's winter), and a big statement necklace.  Take that fringe, you are SO 2015 now!  #dropmic  P.S. things are now bluetooth adaptable and wireless so why is dropped mic suddenly on fleek.  #mindblown.   That's out of date already too.  What's next Gen X? After these finds, I no longer cringe at fringe.  As a child of the 80s, I welcome the 80s anyway.  Fanny packs and backpacks and high top sneakers are all back!  I even saw slap bracelets at Walmart today. These are the days when anything goes!

These are the days when anything goes!Every day is a winding road

I get a little bit closer

Everyday is a faded sign

I get a little bit closer to feeling fine

Thanks Cheryl Crow

-Erin
All products purchased were not sponsored and all faux material, and the opinions belong to the blogger.

Thrift Store Come Ups

If you have read my recent posts then you are semi familiar with my post partum shopping and dressing issues.  If you aren't caught up then here is one of my posts about it.  Post partum dressing is probably my least favorite part of having a newborn.  Sleep deprivation and lots of diapers don't bother me as much as trying to figure out what fits and what I can breast feed in.  As my five year old would say "it's a big 'whomp whomp'."

Most of my fall and winter clothes are layer able pieces but they don't fit me at the moment.  I was faced with a closet full of clothes and literally nothing to wear a couple weeks ago.  I hesitated spending lots of money on new things that I hopefully won't need for very long but it was obvious that shopping needed to be done- and quick style!  Thankfully I found some great pieces recently at yard sales and thrift shops.

I spent $12 on four shirts and two sweaters at a yard sale.  Each item was only $2 and it almost felt wrong to pay so little for some of them because some are Express, BCBG, and Forever 21.  Yes, they are gently used items, but they are in great condition and nobody would be the wiser if I didn't tell them.  I was so excited to find these items!

The following week I found two sweaters at a church thrift store.  I spent $5 for both and one is also Express!

Here are some of my recent "come ups:"

It's a Banana Republic sweater!  It's light weight and super soft.

This is an Express cardigan that I got for $2!  I love the jeweled buttons and it will be adorable with jeans.

And lastly I would like to show you this over sized, cream colored chunky knit sweater.  The back has a criss cross detail that sets it apart.  I am going to pair it with leggings and boots.

Shopping for used clothes isn't something that everyone is into and I am ok with that.  Sometimes I actually enjoy hunting down one of a kind pieces at vintage shops, consignment stores, and resale shops more than shopping at the mall or online.  When my wardrobe needs a revamp on a budget then buying used is a good option for me.  I enjoy considering how a piece can be tailored to me or worked into my existing wardrobe and I love knowing that nobody likely has the same thing.

-Michelle

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Get Oiled Bags

One of my goals is to try and support small businesses and artisans more.  Admittedly, I am an Etsy addict.  There are so many inventive, one of a kind things on Etsy and I can easily order something neat everyday.  q few of my friends even have Etsy businesses and I try and support them as often as I can.

I've been looking for a small bag that I could fit into my bigger purse but would fit my phone, lipstick, a diaper and wipes.  One of my friends, Jen, is an incredible seamstress and makes custom bags that have little pockets to hold essential oils.  She has an Etsy shop called Get Oiled Bags. I am not hugely into essential oils as to where I would carry them with me, but I like the style of her bags, wanted to support her, and was curious if the little oil pockets on the side of her bags would also hold lipsticks.  I was happy to see that she had a bag that meets all those qualifications and was a fantastic price of $20.00.  I even got to pick my fabrics.

Lipsticks and lip glosses DO fit in place of oils and this bag is just the right size for when I am running into a store with my kids and don't need to carry my giant purse.  It's well made and stylish.  It could also work as a makeup bag.

It's super cute, right?  Here's a couple pictures of the inside:

If you are interested in ordering a similar bag then please check out Jen's Get Oiled Bags on Etsy here.  

Now that I have a bag that carries oils, I am actually a little interested in learning more about oils.  I know a lot of people swear by them.  I know a lot of people think they are just silly but I am trying to open minded about less traditional methods for healing and cleaning.  Anything that eliminates some chemicals in or around us must be worth a shot, right? I am expecting a few samples to arrive next week and will follow up after I try them.  Check back!

-Michelle

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*Photo courtesy of the blogger.  This review was not sponsored.

Lauren Conrad Leggings

Being two weeks post partum is both invigorating and disheartening.  My body is finally starting to feel like my own again, but it certainly isn't looking like the one I used to have yet.  Dressing your post partum body is frustrating and sometimes even depressing.  Maternity clothes are too big, your old clothes are much too small, and purchasing a wardrobe of clothes in the sizes in between isn't really feasible.  So what's a new mom to do?

Leggings and layers.

The answer is definitely leggings and layers.  Thankfully that's doable in Fall!  Specifically Lauren Conrad leggings from Kohls.

My love affair with leggings goes way back.  I probably own 20 pairs of leggings, not including yoga pants and workout pants.  I wear leggings year round and almost everywhere.  Some people like jeans but I prefer leggings as a staple in my wardrobe.

I hadn't tried Lauren Conrad leggings yet but in a desperate moment the other day, I grabbed some at Kohls without trying them on.  I put them on later that day and was so happy with my purchase.  They are comfortable, high waisted enough to smooth out some of the post baby lumps and bumps and thick enough not to worry about when I move around.

I loved them so much that I went back the next day for another pair.  At $10 each they are well worth it and available in several colors and prints!  I have been pairing them with comfy sneakers for fall, long tank tops, and cardigan sweaters.  Layers are key for Fall weather around here.  These leggings will transition into colder months with boots and sweaters too.  I am happy to have found them and will probably buy a size down when I lose some of the baby weight.  There are tons of leggings options available, I wouldn't recommend a specific one if I didn't love them!

I was even wearing my LC polka dot leggings as I wrote this post at Panera.  I love them that much!

-Michelle

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*Photo courtesy of the blogger.  This review was not sponsored.

Fashion premiere of philanthropic lifestyle brand KARMA FOR A CURE® during NYFW

Prepare yourself for this debut!

Fashion designer and owner of KARMA FOR A CURE®  Margaux Minutolo presented her SS16 Jet Set Collection during New York Fashion Week at an event held Thursday, Sept. 17th.  I was among many who could not wait to get a glimpse of the new collection!  

KARMA FOR A CURE® Founder Margaux was inspired by her father's battle with cancer to create a brand that celebrated his life of travel, adventure, and good karma.  Margaux's brand has evolved from an artsy awareness t-shirt to a full lifestyle collection of clothing for the adventurer, escapist, girl on the go. The contemporary collection of neutral knits is relaxed, transitional and chic, ready to voyage from jet-set to surf-side - made to explore the world with you as you sprinkle positivity along your journey through life.  The brand's mission is to create positive social impact in honor of Margaux's father.

To start off by saying this new fashion line blew me away is an understatement.  Margaux presented her line with a display of live models who adorned a few of her 21 new garments, which paired perfectly with her healing halos and handmade headpieces.

KARMA FOR A CURE® held the premiere at Hotel Chantelle in collaboration with cocktail app Hooch, as well as a live performance by European DJ Raffael De Luca.  The turnout to view SSFW in the hotel lobby scene she created with vintage suitcases was exceptional, and I expect no less from this up and coming designer whose forward thinking brings the element of surprise everywhere she goes.

This standout piece caught my eye!
Cut-Out Maxi is the most versatile maxi.


The Diamond Print Dress and
Bonefish Sweaterare knockouts to add to your SS16 wardrobe.

Margaux's SS16 Jet Set Collection is refreshing, and wearable, and I will be ordering multiple pieces to travel with next Spring.  I found KARMA FOR A CURE®'s Jet Set Collection SS16 to be practical for girls on the move, and the pieces are versatile enough to add to your suitcase no matter the trip!  These quality garments are neutral essentials for any chic jet-setting woman.

Although not available until Spring 2016, inquire about pre-ordering at info@karmaforacure.com

Watch an exclusive video of the NYFW event at www.KarmaForACure.com.

~Erin

Photo credit belongs to MoonCultureFilms

Flare Jeans

My cousin told me years ago to donate my flare jeans.  She did so, but I just couldn't!

I remember driving myself to the mall, with my brand new driver's license and strolling through the mall visiting Contempo Casual and Wet Seal.  It's funny what I used to think about when I shopped vs. what I think about now.  I used to think about the girls at school and what they wore and what they'd think of my new trendy outfit from the hippest stores aside from Hot Topic.  Now I don't think of anyone, anyone that I actually know anyway.  I think of pinterest photos that inspire me and my virtual YouTube friends, but mostly I think of what I like and what I would pair it with.  I hoped to get odd comments because I meant I was staying true to my unique and one of a kind style, only slightly inspired by the popular trends of the season.  I remember buying my Paris Blue jeans that I saved up cash from my part time jobs to purchase.  They were size 7 flare with 3 buttons and the cool brand logo on the back waist line.  I wore this pair all the way through college.  I started wearing them with black low combat type boots with thick soles, totally back in style now by the way, but this was circa 1998.  I also wore them with white soled black Sketcher sneakers, then in college Adidas sneakers.  I had no fashion sense whatsoever in college.  I have a photo of me at a frat party in a shiny metallic blue button down.  Interview vs. party, what was I thinking?

Those flare jeans were in before jeans ever were tucked into boots.  The knee boot phenomenon that took over the world is what lowered the demand for flare jeans.  Skinny jeans worked much better than folding your flares and stuffing them into your boots which created a bulge out the top of the boot because just under the knee the jeans were flared and not fitted.  Not flattering at all.  I kept my flares for 2 reasons, memories of my youth and sneakers!  I have been a sneaker girl through cheerleading sneakers; back to school sneakers that I wore with slouch socks (2 colors) and tight cuff roll jeans; track sneakers; to gym sneakers.  Now, I have more heels than I can count, but sneakers are my typical shoe.  Sneakers and skinny jeans can look bulky so I had to keep the flare cut jeans.  Boot cut are okay but never fit me right.  I no longer have my Paris Blues flares, but  held onto some others and last year I bought flares for $6 because no one wanted them.  I have a few that need hemming but now I have an assortment just in time for Fall 2016.  Flares are back baby!  I'm not a fan of the full on 70s trends approaching us or spring summer boho look that is winding down, even though I have the perfect flat hair to look like Jan Brady and if I part it in the middle and add a flower headband and the right Instagram filter I could pass as a flower child in a heartbeat.  Flares can look elegant and classy too with a black button down, or a blazer, or even a moto jacket, or duster jacket.  Flares make the thighs look slim, and if you have chunky heeled boots or stiletto pointed heels peaking out from the flare, you just added miles to your legs!

This is why I don't throw out my clothes.  Although, I did part with my Bongo jeans from the store 5,7,9, so I will happily be out of luck when tight cuff jeans are back.  I still have my skinnies since I 100% love over the knee boots, but flares please stick around!

 

23021 MARIA FLARE

http://www.jbrandjeans.com/d/4697

Will you rock flares this season?

~Erin

*Products mentioned were personally purchased and not sponsored by the company and all opinions are those of the blogger.

Falling for Suede

Just as I mentioned in my platform sandal post here, my style from back in the 90's has reappeared all around me!  I wore a pair of black suede flare leggings every time they were clean from the laundry.  What’s funny is I wore them with black combat type boots and a white crop sweater, both of which have appeared in recent trends.  My So Called Life revisted.  I even have a similar haircut now.  Maybe history does repeat itself.   
Here's me in my suede leggings, before leggings were even a thing.  I may or may not have been wearing stark white foundation and brown eyeshadow, or maybe it was the high quality disposable camera.  Notice I only wore 1 backpack strap because unlike today, 2 were dorky back in the late 90's.  Have you ever seen the movie 21 Jump street with Channing Tatum?  The backpack part cracks me up.

approx. 1996 age 15

Last year in Kohls, I saw a pair of black suede pants and bought them because I loved my 10th grade pair so much.  This pair was skinny style and I actually have a midi skirt from post college dating back over ten years that is tan suede.  I had a leather fix 2 yrs ago and then a suede fix, although those leggings and a tan crop from Forever 21 I got last year were the only suede garments I could even find last season.  Just like what happened after I exhausted my leather dress search and gave up, I was too early.  As Fall 2015 approaches I see a lot of suede and I love it!  I wonder how much longer I will have to wait before I finally find olive suede?  Right now it's all tan and tan washes out my pale complexion and hair.  I could lay in the Sahara and become a chameleon, especially if dressed in tans.  Side note, there's a reason I over do my accessories and eye makeup or dare to wear bright lipstick since me in neutrals is just as exciting as the boring backdrop of a DMV.

This skirt has been calling to me for weeks, and even though I love the laser cut detailing it's another midi which I have already plus I waited too long and unfortunately missed the boat in my size.

                                                         Forever 21 Lase Cut Faux Suede Midi

I also picked up this suede skater skirt here!

Do you like suede or does it give you the heeby-geebies like corduroy or velvet when running your hand over it?  I love the look on a crisp fall day!

I know I will be wearing my tan suede over the knee boots this season, as well as my suede leggings, whether the trend forges ahead or is a flop!  

-Erin

*All suede mentioned is faux, and opinions are of the blogger.

Cropped Pants for Fall

I can't believe it's time to be talking about fall fashion already.  I am still shamelessly soaking up the sun, enjoying the fresh berries that summer offers, and searching for the perfect summer beach hat.  Fashion, however, waits for no one and everyone is already talking about next season.

It looks like cropped pants are in for fall.  I am not necessarily a fan of cropped pants but I am excited to see some cropped flares AKA "jazz pants" for fall.  Jazz pants are more flattering to my body than cigarette style or cropped wide leg pants are.  They balance out hips and draw attention to slimmer ankles.  I think they are cute with booties or oxfords.

H&M has a pair that I have my eye on.  They are basic black, with just enough flare to be wearable without being over dramatic.  The $24.99 price tag and elastic waist definitely caught my eye too.  Come fall, I will be trying to get back to my pre pregnancy body and elastic waists, black fabric, and stretch will all be staples in my wardrobe for awhile.

Nordstrom also has a pair that looks chic and comfortable.  It doesn't boast the elastic waist, but they look roomy enough to be comfortable without making my already short legs look shorter.  Cropped pants can sometimes make short legs look stumpy but I think this pair will be ok.  

These are Plenty by Tracy Reese and $178.00 on the Nordsrtom website.  I love how they paired with the platform sandal in the picture.

These are the only style cropped pants I will be wearing this fall...aside from yoga capris of course!  

-Michelle

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*This was an independent review.  Photos courtesy of H&M and Nordstrom.

Platform Sandals

I saw a trend forming 16 hours before it arrived in America.

What I mean by that is I watched my fellow blogger and YouTube friends in Australia wear this fashion statement while I was nestled on my couch under blankets watching Pretty Little Liars & snow fall.  The upcoming summer trends debuted in Australia at the same time, during their summer.

I saw it.  I thought about it.  I liked the simple clean lines.  I didn't like the chunky wide appearance at first.  I did like the combo of the classic look and edgy look, if that's not an oxy moron!  I kept the look in the back of my mind, wondering if all trends really do make it to the US.

It's funny because one of my first pair of high heels, which still sit in my closet, fit the bill.  I must go try them on now, just for giggles if anything!  They were a black chunk heel round toe Mary Jane looking heel with a thin black strip over the top of my foot.  I had a solid pair but this pair I kept is more satin with a criss cross round toe.




I wore them to I think the dinner cruise on my 8th grade Washington DC trip.  I paired them with a black dressy overall-like jumpsuit and a white lace top.  the white lace top (and shoes) I still have because it's one of the few clothing items I still have that my mom had picked out and brought home for me.  Basically this entire outfit, both overalls and jumpsuits as well as lace have made an encore the past couple years.  I was so on trend and didn't even know it!  I found a pic of the outfit with different shoes it seems, but I thought I'd share.

Easter 1995 (age 13/14)

The Australian trend I saw appearing last winter though was the thick strapped shoe in usually black and sometimes white, with a platform adding much appreciated height!  Teh platform is less streamlined but has grown on me.  Here's an example in gold which I have been eyeing here just for their uniqueness.  I have loved gold throughout the 90s when it was not cool and silver was in.  Golden hues make me happy.

By Design Lab sold at Lord n Taylor (link above)
photo found on pinterest

Can't you picture it with denim and a white top with long gold chain?


Here are two other popular style this season with different looks, one more dressy and one more boho which I picture with a maxi dress if it's your style.  The latter is a little too Pee Wee Herman for me. I  also need an arch to my shoes at my age, but so many feet out there aren't bothered by flat hard soles.  Which pair would you wear?

  
Found on Forever21.com here                                                            Found at Asos here


I actually purchased these a year or two ago and couldn't return them because of Forever 21's horrendous return policy.  They weigh a ton!




Here is a pair I found at Marshalls this season that I am excited about!  They are a little more timeless than the trendy gold ones above I'm considering purchasing, but have the thick strap similarity.  Patent leather is like nails on a chalkboard to some people, but it's a clean put together look and I like it!  High five to wedges too!




By Adrienne Vittadini

Do you like this Australian sandal style?

-Erin

*Products mentioned were personally purchased and not sponsored.