Essie Nail Polish ~ Summer Collection

I love to indulge in "me time."  Who doesn't?  I deserve it.  I work.  I have kids, a husband, and a house to take care of.  So my one regular indulgence that I partake in is getting my nails done.  

I am apparently addicted to pink nail polishes.  I swear I must own like 15 different shades of pink.  They range from light to hot to deep.  

I usually have my nails painted in a light pink, like Essie's Ballet Slippers.  I save the "fun" pinks for my toes.  For some reason, bright colors on my hands make me nervous and I tend to put them in my mouth (former nail biter...I admit it).  

Recently, I purchased Essie's Summer Collection.  It's a box of four mini nail polishes from a collection.  Mini is the perfect size in case you get aren't sure if you like a color.  

The colors for this summer have really cute names, as all Essie's nail polishes do.  Each of these new summer colors have a slight shimmer to them.  There's Sunday Funday.  This tangerine coral crush polish helps me to veer from my normal pink.  Naughty Nautical is a marine blue-green color.  Full Steam Ahead is a medium toned lilac shade.  And then there's The More The Merrier; it's a lime green color...so fun!

These colors are so bright and cheery...they totally fit my mood this summer.  (Fun and carefree!)  My plan is to pick a different one of these polishes each time I get my mani & pedi.   

I started with The More the Merrier.  COMPLETELY out of my comfort zone!!  I'm loving it though and definitely adding new colors to my repertoire! 

Are you a nail polish dare devil or do you stick to the same shade every time?  What's your favorite Essie color? 




Alexis

My Newest Color Obsession

Do you have certain colors that you are attracted to during certain times of the year?  Whenever I'm shopping, I feel inclined to gravitate toward whatever color I happen to be wearing that day.  It's almost like the power of suggestion.

I was recently shopping for a dress to wear to an upcoming event.  I started shopping with nothing in mind at all.  I like to do this so that I am "open" to everything.  Well, I tried on this dress that was ABSOLUTELY PERFECT.  Let's not talk about the fact that it didn't fit & they didn't have another one...  Well, the dress was orange and since then I've been completely obsessed!

Maybe I'm obsessed because it's a trend for this summer, or maybe it's just a happy color that keeps drawing my eye in.  All I know is I'm not the only one who likes it...

Photo from Trendnstylez.com

Photo from HowAboutOrange.blogspot.com

And this vibrant color is not just for fashion.  I love it for the home as well.  Changing up the colored accents in a plain room is so great!

 Do you love orange like I do or are you gravitating towards another color lately?

Alexis

Get the Golden Globe Look

I, like many, am obsessed with award season!! Yes, I love to see which show, movie or actor wins, but I am mainly obsessed with the fashion.  I live to see which dress I will not be wearing this year...everyone just looks so beautiful!  

On Sunday, I was watching the red carpet event with my husband.  It's true love ladies & gentlemen when your husband actually watches the best part of award shows with you!  We commented about the dresses, who looks old, and who looks like they've had too much "doctoring."  

One actress who caught our eye was Sofia Vergara from Modern Family.  My husband is in awe of her and had me research how old she is.  That's when we found out that she is the same age as him...but she looks MUCH better!






Do you want to get her look from the Golden Globes?  Here's what you need to know:


Sofia Vergara’s Golden Globes 2013 Look by Kayleen McAdams

Face:

• start by applying COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation in Classic Tan (#860) all over and set it with COVERGIRL + Olay Pressed Powder in Medium
• apply a light dusting of Queen Collection Natural Hue Bronzer in Brown Bronze and Cheekers Blush in Sierra Sands, a warm blush, on the apples of the cheeks 

Eyes:

• to give the eye a wash of shadow, use only one shade, Eye Enhancers 1-Kit in Brown Smolder, and softly blend it over the entire lid
• apply LiqulineBlast Liner in Brown Blaze along the bottom lash line and extend it past the lash line to give a slight wing
• finish off the look with three coats of Clump Crusher by LashBlast Mascara on top to really emphasize the lashes, followed by one coat on the bottom

Lips:

• apply Queen Collection Lipcolor in Into the Red straight from the tube, blot and add another coat to make it last all night

Now if there was a magic potion to get her body....

 

For more inside scoop on all things COVERGIRL, make sure to LIKE www.facebook.com/covergirl, FOLLOW www.twitter.com/covergirl, and PIN www.pinterest.com/covergirlxo. 

Alexis

U.S. Olympic Fashion with Ralph Lauren

Are you ready for the 2012 Olympic Summer Games?  This year's games will be the first ones that my kids will be able to enjoy and we are excited!


We are ready to don our red, white and blue and support the USA in their endeavors to bring as many gold medals home as possible.  What better way to support our team than with official Olympic fashions from Ralph Lauren?


Ralph Lauren, the ever popular clothing line, is the official outfitter for the 2012 US Olympic team.  At tonight's opening ceremony 539 athletes from the United States will proudly walk during the Parade of Athletes as we cheer from almost 4,000 miles away. 

Very dapper....

Bloomingdale's has partnered with Ralph Lauren to bring these special Team USA Olympic fashions home for all to support our team.  There are also matching outfits for the entire family.  The really cool part?  Bloomingdale's is the sole distributor or the vintage type Olympic fashions from Ralph Lauren.  I LOVE vintage! 

Let's go USA!

The hubby can show support too!

And of course, you can't leave me out!!

"Little Ricky" & "The Nag" would be so cute in this one!!

Olympic fashion for even the smallest enthusiast!

Check out Bloomingdale's to find your own Ralph Lauren Olympic fashions for the entire family!


Check out some Olympic fun facts:

• This year's summer games run from July 27-August 12.
• The opening ceremony is titled: 'Isles of Wonder'.
• The United States has won more medals (2,189) at the Summer Games than any other country.
• Three continents – Africa, South America, and Antarctica – have never hosted an Olympics.
• There will be 26 sports represented at this year's summer Olympics.
• 204 countries will be represented 

Let's go Team USA!!!

 
Alexis

Pay it Forward Friday ~ Fabulous Summer Bottoms: Dorothy Perkins Edition

Amanda is a South Florida based stay at home mom to a beautiful 15 month old girl.  Being an "AntiMom" is not a baby or mom hater, or all things “mom”.  But since finding out she was pregnant, she vowed to never become the type of mom that loses her identity just because she now has a child.  "I didn’t do things the conventional way my entire life, why would having a baby change that?"  You can check out her website The Anti Mom Blog or find her on Twitter @AntiMomBlog or Facebook The Anti Mom Blog. 


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Fabulous Summer Bottoms: Dorothy Perkins Edition

I know as a mom, we put everyone and everything before ourselves.  Along with this neglect, our fantastic children slowly suck the life out of us during the day, leaving us tired and covered in something sticky.  My mission in life, well since having my daughter, has been trying to find the balance between being a great mom and still being able to stay true to my pre-mom self.  One of those things for me is shopping. 

I have a slight problem/obsession, but I love fashion and the way a great outfit makes me feel.  Some might think of that as vain, but when you look good, you feel good...a trendy domino effect, if you will.

Now that summer is here and slowly melting us away here in South Florida, I like to keep up on deals and great finds for all the latest summer trends.  I came across this great website called Dorothy Perkins and am in love!  Fashion-forward trends for great prices can’t get any better than that!  

Since summer is in full swing, you have to have a few staples beyond a bathing suit.  A good pair of shorts or cropped jeans are a must.  Here are a few pairs of bottoms that everyone should add to their summer wardrobe and they are all under $50!

Jean Bermuda Shorts $39

Jean Bermuda Shorts
These are my absolute favorite this summer!  I wear mine practically every other day.  If you are chasing after kids or meeting a friend for lunch, these are perfect for any day of the week.  And if you want to go on a casual date night with your significant other, throw on a pair or cute wedges for that extra "oomph."

Colored Jean Shorts $27

Colored Jean Shorts
Along with the bolds, sweet pastels are making their way into the limelight.  Try a cool mint color or even a light peach.








 
Colored Jeans

Colored Jeans $39

Color is in and is everywhere you look.  They are showing fantastic bold and bright fabrics that can give an outfit that extra pop.  A great pair of colored denim jeans, like these blue ones, paired with a simple white tee will make a great summer outfit.  The white – well they are classic summer all the way!


 

Maxi Skirt – Striped $35

Maxi Skirts
I love love LOOOOVE these skirts!  You can dress them up or down with either a pair of wedges or cute sandals.  So breezy and cute…and beyond comfortable!


 

Rompers starting at $21

Rompers
It’s not summer without a cute romper!  I love these things and they are everywhere.  Great for cover ups or just a quick outfit when you are in a rush.  These 3 are great options.  Whether you like shorts or capri length, rompers are perfect for a relaxing BBQ or a fun summer party!

 



These great finds will help spice up your summer wardrobe without breaking the bank.  Double bonus!

I want to thank Alexis & all her fab Exhausted Mom readers for having me!  Be sure to come check me out over at The Anti Mom for more weekly fashion postings on the latest trends (next week will be the top 5 summery tops under $20!) and of course some other random shenanigans!




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As a way to share the blogging love and meet new bloggers, I have "Pay it Forward Friday."  This is where I periodically feature fellow bloggers with different interests and from new areas.  If you are interested in writing a guest post for "Pay it Forward Friday," feel free to send me a message!  I would love to feature you!!

Alexis

Viva Brazil!!!

Brazil must be the summer trend.  I was walking in the mall with my mom, and as we moved through Macy's, we couldn't help but notice that everything had a theme of Brazil....


The clothes, the purses, the shoes, the jewelery, the make up!  

I've never been to Brazil, but the way that the brands were advertising it, it sounds like my kind of place.  Bright colors, flowing fabrics, chunky jewelery.  Everything reminded me of happiness and fun.  What is not to love?

When I got a closer look, I realized that Macy's is even giving customers a chance to win a trip to Brazil!  Of course I entered....my kids started whining that they wanted to go to Brazil right now.  
(I wish!)

Estee Lauder has a fragrance.

Even Lancome has eye look set dedicated to Brazil.

In order to get ready for my upcoming trip to Brazil (keep your fingers crossed), I need to get going doing the Brazil Butt Lift so I look the part!

I guess it won't work if I don't use it!!

Enter today for your own chance to win a trip to Brazil and Macy's.


Alexis

"Not So Mommy" Trends for Summer

Yeah, I'm a mom.  But that doesn't mean I have to LOOK like my mom.  

But since I AM a mom, I choose comfort instead of high fashion.  I need room to move when I'm chasing the boys from one place to another.  Not to mention I live in steamy South Florida, so I need thin fabrics that breathe.  

Here are some trends that work well with any mom's summer plans from staying home to traveling around.  All with the kids in mind!!

JCrew Camp Popover shirt $69.50

My go-to outfit for summer is a t-shirt and shorts or jeans.  I really love the look of a white t.  This top from JCrew is a nice alternative to the almighty t-shirt.  It also makes the look a little more "finished." 

A-line Maxi Skirt from Gap $49.95

I said that I love comfort and t-shirts, what better way to combine the two than with this maxi skirt from Gap.  You can pair these type of skirts with a simple tank or one with more pizazz.  Add flip flops or wedges to change the mood.

Utility jacket from Gap $79.95

Change your every day outfit by adding a jacket with color.  I LOVE this utility jacket from Gap.

Nautical Hobo Bag from Forever 21 $22.80

The nautical look is all buzz this summer! Try adding this piece to your wardrobe even if you can't make it to a boat.  It's also nice and roomy in order to carry your kids' needs as well.  

When looking for trendy accents, I like to shop at Forever 21.  The prices are just right that even my husband won't get mad.

Colorblocked Bangle Set from Forever 21 $7.80

Sam Edelman Gigi sandal $65

And no look would be complete without the right SHOES!  I love getting neutral shoes that I can justify by wearing them with many outfits.  These Sam Edelmans are just that...comfy and go well with everything! 



What are your favorite summer pieces?  How do you change your favorites so that you don't look so "mommy-ish?"



Alexis

South Florida Finds ~ South Beach Furs

When most people think of South Beach, they think of sand, sun, and well, beach.  

But what about furs?

South Beach Furs is a premier source for today's new choice in furs.

Now, before PETA gets all over this, the "fur" used in these absolutely gorgeous wraps and coats, are made completely from marabou feathers.  You heard me, FEATHERS.  

These parts of the feather are the soft, downy part of a chicken or turkey feather.  So while you're enjoying a yummy chicken dinner, the feathers are being used for fashion!

Designer Angelique Terrelonge

Designer Angelique Terrelonge offers this one of a kind collection that compliments any ensemble from wedding, formal to casual.  

These hot faux fur fashions are available in a wide range of colors...even ANIMAL PRINT!  Not to mention, they look and feel just like real fur...minus the heavy weight of a fur coat.  Perfect for South Beach!

I covet this vest!!

The next time you want to compliment your look with fur, and don't want to upset your conscience, wallet, or PETA, check out South Beach Furs!


Alexis

The Children's Place ~ A great place for winter!

Every year as the holidays approach, I get a little more wiser when shopping for the duds that my little dudes will wear.  When they were babies, I waited until right before the holiday and nothing was available.  Now that my "baby" is 6 years old, when I see a look that I like, I grab it!


Recently, I visited The Children's Place for a local blogger event.  Although the sparkle and lace from the girls' side was pulling me, I kept my composure and went to the boys' side where I belong.

There was a lot to choose from....from flannel shirts to sport coats.  I kept in mind the upcoming holidays and celebrations that we will have with family and friends.  Living in South Florida, you also have to keep in mind the weather...we never know if it will be hot or cold during the holiday season, so I like to have options.

Of course polo type shirts are a must have in any weather.  Pair it with shorts and you can go dressy or casual depending on the shoes.  Add a long sleeved t-shirt under and pair it with jeans and it's good for cooler weather.

I loved the lightweight v-neck sweaters!  They will come in handy for both the holidays and for school.

 I had to buy fleece pull overs in case the weather decides to drop below 70 degrees here.  (Don't judge, we have thin skin here in South Florida!)

I would LOVE to put my boys in this outfit....unfortunately, their father has a very LOUD opinion!!  Ho, hum....maybe I'll convince the boys that they like it and he can't say no to them!







Be sure to check out The Children's Place online for more winter and holiday ideas. You can also find ways to save money while shopping online or in stores. 

PS....A little something I would LOVE to buy, but sadly I cannot.....why do I torture myself?!

Disclosure:  I was provided a The Childrens Place gift card for attending the event.  No request to blog or social media exposure was asked by the store.  All opinions are my own.