prep for valentine's day, sweethearts

Monday is the heart day!
I'm a big fan of Valentine's Day's color scheme.
But- that is just about where my fondness for said holiday ends.

I'm all for reds and pinks, golds and purples 
(does purple count? i always count purple...)
 and the more sparkles, the better.
Whether you are going out with your sweetheart or having a sparkly night out
with your best girls, it certainly is fun to dress for the holiday.

Here's a perfect look for any February 14th plans:

Cocktail Dresses by Notte by Marchesa
Platforms by Christian Louboutin

It wouldn't be Valentine's without some sweets.

These beautiful mini cakes recreate the look of a box of chocolates.

I don't know a gal who wouldn't LOVE to receive these treats.

 The gold plated cakes are adorable.
I'm drooling.

via
YUM.
Also, I came across these adorable chocolate covered strawberries on my friend Ashley's blog.
They're the most precious things ever.  If I was more brave, I'd attempt them myself.

Some bling for all my single ladies...

via

So, if you want to share your declaration of love and your budget doesn't allow too much stretching-

Check out these adorable e-valentines from Kate Spade.

I've already sent out a number of them to my nearest + dearest.

Enjoy your frills + your chocolates.

And remind all your valentines how much you love them everyday, 

not just mandated commercialized holidays..

 Happy Valentine's Day!

thrifty thursday

I fear that without these snow days, I would not have been 

so excited about blogging this week.

I did go thrifting yesterday between school + work

 (students get half off at citi-thrift on park ave) 

and I was SO thrilled to find a really awesome striped jacket

 and two amazing vintage cardigans (to be seen later).

Introducing.... (drum roll, please)

Thrifty Thursday!

Here's the amazing jacket that I instantly fell in love with.

And the possibilites are endless with him.

The belt is the most expensive part of this outfit, everything else was on sale or given.

Love the bargains.

Yes, if anyone viewing this blog is not from the South, don't be alarmed that this constitutes a snow day.

We are expecting three inches or more this time.

shirt: acquired

leggings: target

boots: shoe dept

belt: new york and company

jacket: thrifted

Studded belts are my thing.

Front porch pictures are super fun, eh?

Taking the pictures outside was more fun, but absolutely freezing.

history buff

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As I sat at my computer, I realized that I had every intention of getting started on my World War II paper like thirty minutes ago.

Instead, I watched a messy bun tutorial (mastered it), sent sister #2 an email about said tutorial, 

+ caught up on some of my new favorite blogs.

Senior Year (round 2) is going to be the death of me.

So, here is some more procrastination.

(does it count if the distraction is topic related?)

thought so.

Vintage Vices:

Traveling was never so stylish.

The coat is perfect.

vintage style coat

I adore these heels.

Completes any vintage outfit. 

vintage heels

 Vintage style pattern dresses are flattering and I love the colors together.

vintage style day dress

Hair + makeup of the 40s was so classic and feminine.

Beautiful.

via

1940s style decor.

Perfection.

via houzz.com

The past holds so many treasures.  

Now, maybe I'll be inspired to write this paper.

Maybe.

blues-day.

tuesday is not just between monday and wednesday anymore.

it is a day to embrace the shades of blue all around you.

maybe i'm just craving blue skies and sunshine. come on, come out.

best of the blues:

navy blue.

sweater savvy.

via

baby blue.

drawer pulls.

via Etsy

ikat blue. 

fab pillows.

via

 turquoise blue.

rockin wayfarers.

via Free People

sparkly blue.

nail polish perfection.

via

royal blue.

bright tights.

via Zappo's Couture

denim blue.

chunky heel heaven.

via Michael Kors

lapis blue.

chandelier jackpot.

via Bluefly

 egyptian blue.

historical + adorable.

Rock your blue of choice + enjoy!

Cheers!

freshen up.

it's all white over here, and i'm slightly over it.

i love winter, but we have had more snow this winter in Memphis than before.

i'm all for snow days, but the spring lovin' girl in me is begging for some slightly warmer temps.

So, let's explore the idea of six hair and makeup steps to knock off the winter doldrums and 

update your look and mood instantly. 

 All photos via Harper's Bazaar

1. Knockout Nails or Lips

A pop of bright color on your nails or pout will bring instant cheer to a neutral outfit.

2.  Ballerina Buns

A sleek and smooth bun or twist at the crown can make you look put together in no time.

3. Luxurious Lashes

Use liquid eyeliner and a voluminous mascara (or go crazy and add some falsies) to make you feel like a star, even when trekking through this snow.

4.  Perfect Skin

Adding a primer can create a smooth, luminous layer between your skin and foundation.  Add a golden highlighter for a more radiance.

5.  Slicked Hair

Want a new way to wear your hair down?   

Start with a deep side part and slick your hair down and behind your ears.

6.  Amped-up Eyes

Don't be weary of using some color to get attention.  

Adding color to lids or lashes is a must.

Matters of Merrymaking suggests pulling one hair and one makeup tip and combine together!

Instantly add some color and style to avoid feeling dull and gray on these never-ending winter days!

Today's choice: Messy bun, bright red nails and big lashes.

Cheers!