New Year, New You

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I love starting a new year. I feel like I suddenly have time to try new things. Of course I want to become a more patient person, play with my kids more, work on my spiritual life, and so on. This post, however, is focused on the fun, fashionable ways to change this year.

Having a blog is a great way to really see what other people see (on the surface, that is). I've noticed a lack of color in my handbags, and a serious lack of bold jewelry. Both are things that I love but when it comes to shopping for these items, I tend to shy away. This year, I am going to add a few pieces from this category to my wardrobe. Any of the pieces above make a statement and would be great pieces to own.

I definitely want to try a few new beauty trends. I have loved the double cat eye for quite a while now. Of course, a regular cat eye where I live is probably 'out there' so I haven't attempted the double. I think it would look great for a night out. It might take some practice, but I hope to master the look!

I've done a smoky eye every now and then when I've gone out to dinner with my husband. There are several ways to create the smoky eye and I am always on the lookout for a new method. If you want to try it, I found a step-by-step method here and a video tutorial here.

I don't have any nude lipsticks and I will be hunting for the perfect shade soon. I love the look of a dramatic eye done with nude lips.

False lashes are great when you want to add a little more 'oomph' to your make-up. I have used the strip lashes before (for dance performances) but I think the individual lashes look a little more natural and give a subtle hint of drama to your look. I am going to start using these more for date nights.

This new year is a great time to try new trends in beauty and fashion. Have you thought about things you want to try?

Have a great day!

Simple Sweaters

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There is nothing better than taking a comfortable, slouchy sweater and creating several looks around it. I realize that sweaters in the summer are quite impractical (at least where I live) but cooler temperatures will be here before we know it. 

I like both versions that I created but I think the dressed down version is my favorite. Which do you prefer?

I hope you guys have a great day!

What to Wear With...

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When I get dressed in the morning, I take into consideration how my hair will look with certain pieces. For instance, I have a denim romper that seems to only look good with a top knot. I've tried wearing my hair curly (my go-to hair style) with this piece but somehow the combination of denim and curly hair looks a little too 80s. Wearing it with a top knot seems to take the retro vibe away.

I put together several looks to go with three different hair styles. These are all looks that I think would work with the hair styles I've picked. Of course, some of these can be swapped around.

What is your favorite way to wear your hair? I'd love to know!

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Beach Bound

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I put together a few things that I think would be perfect for a trip to the beach. I love the idea of a bright patterned short and crop top to go over a bikini. Of course, in my perfect world I would wear this. I'm not that confident after having my second baby. (So funny how you bounce right back after the first baby but things aren't so quick to go back after the second!) 

Of course, no beach trip would be complete without a few essentials for your relaxation time. Here are just a handful of things that I would bring to the beach.

1. A cute striped beach towel is a must.
2. Get a Kindle with a cute case and store numerous books for your trip. (Then you won't have to pack 3-4 paperbacks in your bag.)
3. Protect your lips from sun damage with a lip balm.
4. Don't forget to protect your hair! If floppy hats aren't your thing, use a spray to protect the scalp and your strands from sun damage.
5. Unwind a little with a glass of wine (at sunset) or a mixed drink (day). These handy little stakes go down in the sand right next to your chair so your drink is away from the sand.
6. Make sure you hydrate your body with plenty of water! Sitting out in the sun without drinking water is not good for your body! (Especially if you have had a cocktail. Make sure you replenish your fluids!)

Color Blocking

Since color has been so popular lately, I thought that I would put together two color blocked looks: one with just a few pops of color and then one with multiple colors.

The first look incorporates just a few touches of pink for those of you who don't want to look like Rainbow Brite. If the pink sandals are a bit much, then you can always add a nude wedge to tone down the look. 

The second look is a bit more bold yet still perfect for summer. I added three colors to this look to make it a bit more exciting. I kept the bag and the shoes in the same color family because I need a little consistency in my looks.

I love these looks and would wear both of them for sure. Which look is more your style?

Have a great day and don't forget to like my facebook page!

Lace Shorts

I've created two looks around a single pair of lace shorts (I'm obsessed with lace shorts right now) for two different moods. Do you ever let your mood in the morning determine what you will wear? Sometimes I want to look romantic and feminine, while other times I want to look cool and edgy. It just depends on how I feel.

I love both of these looks! But since I woke up today feeling funky then I think the second look will have to be my favorite.

I just created a facebook page for my blog (you can see it in the sidebar) so make sure you go and 'like' my page. Have a fabulous Tuesday!

This With That

I have always liked the idea of pairing a feminine floral dress with an oversized cardigan. I think putting the two together creates a casual vibe that you might not get with the dress alone. Using pink accessories such as the shoes and cross-body bag add a touch of 'girly' to the look but still fit with the relaxed tone of the look.

This look is great for a weekend out shopping or lunch with your friends. It is stylish but comfortable enough to allow you to get what you need done. You can dress it up easily by removing the cardigan and adding some heels and a clutch.

I hope you guys have a great Wednesday!

Weekend Getaway - Part 1

Weekend Getaway by amyshaughnessy

The beautiful spring weather (and my desperate desire to take a mini vacation) had me thinking about a trip I took to Maine one summer. I visited a small coastal town and fell in love with it. I remember strolling down the quaint downtown streets and taking in the sights and smells of a seafaring village. I don't live near water (unless you count the alligator-infested lakes) so seeing the sailboats sprinkled out in the water was a new but welcome sight to me.

I put together this look because I think it would be appropriate for a day of shopping and sightseeing (hence the title). Maybe the navy and white striped dress is too cliche (nautical-themed wardrobe for a nautical town) but I still love it. Keeping the jewelry and shoes simple are perfect for a day of walking around. The large tote bag will be perfect for storing all of the treasures you pick up along the way. Adding a bright yellow sweater will keep your look cheerful should the weather decide to turn chilly.

After the first segment of this series, I am ready to take a vacation!

A Little Lace

Lace by amyshaughnessy

After my post last week on lace (you can see it here), I couldn't stop thinking about how pretty the fabric was. I decided to build a couple of outfits around the intricately designed material. I picked two pair of shorts (one with lace trim and one full-on lace) and decided to do a day and evening look.

When putting these together, I actually thought I would like the day look best. It's casual, stylish, and comfortable all at the same time. I love to be comfortable. However, as I might have mentioned before, I love a good heel. With that said, I would have to say that the first look is my favorite. I love the look of a classic button-up shirt paired with feminine shorts. I also love the bright color of the blouse and the equally bright pump. The spiked ring adds a bit of edge to the outfit, which I love.

Which look would you pick?


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                                                             Beauty Bit

Have you ever wanted to try a different hair style but were afraid of the commitment? Check out this Virtual Hair Makeover! You basically upload a picture of your face and then 'try on' different hair styles. It isn't perfect but it can give you an idea of what a hair color or hair style would look like on you. If nothing else, it's fun!