How To Style a Pullover & November Blogger Meet-Up

photo credit: Snapped by Alexandra of Glory Boon, Edited by Monica of Jersey Girl, Texan Heart

Do you want to know the best part of blogging? Being social! On Saturday, I attended the November Meet-Up with my tri-state blogger friends at East of 8th in NYC. Monica of Jersey Girl, Texan Heart is kind enough to plan these meet-ups every few months for us and it's so much fun to get to see these lovely ladies in person.

It may seem like all fun, but blogging is a tough job. You have to be really passionate to keep going! There is so much that goes into it, but the reward is so much greater! It's events like this that make it all worth it. And I always learn something new when we get together! Each of us are constantly evolving and improving. Who better to learn from than your friends?

I'm sure you're wondering what I wore! So what do you wear to hang out with a bunch of fabulous fashionistas? Well, I went for preppy comfort. Commuting into the city from NJ takes a lot out of you, so comfort was definitely key for me.

If you haven't noticed, I have been completely obsessed with sweater pullovers and loose curls this season. So of course I had to rock those styles!

Chaps Gingham No-Iron Top // Banana Republic Cream Popcorn Stitch Pullover (similar)

Express Pave Chain Necklace (similar) // Movado Bold Luxe Chronograph

Jennifer Lopez Nude Clutch (similar) // Merona Burgundy Tuxedo Flats

The details- I just love the 'popcorn' stiching on this sweater. It adds lovely texture to it and makes it more interesting. I'm obsessed with this black and white gingham print- it's so chic!

photo credit: Monica of Jersey Girl, Texan Heart

Here we all are! 

Back: Johanna of Love 2 B Couture, 

Monica of Jersey Girl, Texan Heart, and Alexandra of Glory Boon

Front: Sara of Sincerely, Sara, Me, Sharon of The Tiny Heart, 

Diane of Style Context, and Jackie of Five Two Certified

photo credit: Monica of Jersey Girl, Texan Heart

5 Things Every 'Hunger Games' Enthusiast Needs

Happy Friday, friends! Well, today isn't just any Friday. It's the premiere day of Mockingjay Part 1! I'm into The Hunger Games trilogy, so I'm pretty psyched that it's finally here! Naturally, I just had to turn this Friday Favorites into a Hunger Games edition.

So, how do you express your uncontainable excitement for this premiere while still being stylish? A secret of mine is to shop Etsy. This is the absolute best place to get one-of-a-kind products for yourself or to give as gifts. And there are so many talented Etsy shop owners that make fabulous Hunger Games inspired jewelry! I'm all about supporting small businesses and I love getting unique pieces to add to my wardrobe.

Here's 5 Things Every 'Hunger Games' Enthusiast Needs!

1- 'Girl on Fire' Watercolor Pendant

2- Quiver & Arrows Bronze Ear Cuff *my favorite!

3- Minimalist Arrow Dangle Earrings

4- Sterling Silver Archery Charm Necklace

5- Silver Sideways Shooting Arrow


Who else is seeing the movie this weekend?

 

NuMe Curl Jam Set: Product Review & Coupon Code

Loose curls are THE thing when it comes to hair trends right now. But how do you get that perfect curl? Believe me, I have been trying for months! After watching YouTube tutorial after tutorial, interviewing my friends, and trying just about every product under the sun, I think I finally got it! It takes a little practice, the right flick of the wrist, and... dun, dun, dun- the right product! 

How did I get the curl look I wanted? I bought the 3 in 1 curling wand by NuMe Products! And seriously, I am in love. But hey, isn't that expensive? Well, yes but with the help of influencers, top bloggers, and websites like Groupon- we can get awesome deals!

After watching this video by Ingrid Nilsen- better known on YouTube as missglamorazzi- I not only learned a thing or two, but I couldn't believe my ears when she announced the offer you could get just because she referred you. Ingrid has two coupon codes; one for 50% off plus free shipping and the other for the entire curl jam set for just $84 (value: $280). Wow! If you haven't checked out Ingrid's YouTube channel, I recommend you do because she is super cute and she knows a lot about everything when it comes to fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. 

Here are Ingrid's codes:

$84 for Curl Jam

Use Code: GetGlamWithIt

50% Off NuMe + Free Shipping to US, Canada, UK
Use Code: Nugified

The above picture shows the Curl Jam Set. It comes with a straightener, a 3 in 1 curling wand, and an awesome travel case. I got all this for just $84 ($96 with shipping)! I haven't used the straightener yet, but the wand is absolutely fantastic. I'm in love! Plus, the travel case is really cool. It has a pocket for each piece and it rolls up into a pretty tiny sphere. Even if you don't travel much, it's great for storage.

*I was not paid or asked to promote NuMe Products or Ingrid Nilsen. I literally just could not resist sharing the love!

I'm joining forces today with Tara from Penniless Socialite. Head on over to her blog to link-up with us and participate in a $25 VISA Gift Card giveaway!

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5 Gift Ideas For The One That Has Everything

 

Believe it or not, it's that time of year again- the holiday season! Maybe you haven't decorated your home yet, but it's never too soon to start your holiday shopping... or at least start thinking about what you'll gift this year. 

So, who to start with? I find it easiest to start with the most difficult gift. This allows you time to think of an idea and wait for a sale. Everyone has those few people on their list that are difficult to shop for! The person that says "I don't need anything" or "I already have everything I want." So, what do you get for this person?

Here's 5 Gift Ideas For The One That Has Everything!

 

Do you have a super soft blanket that has been keeping you cozy all year? Or maybe a candle scent that makes your house feel more like a home?  What about that recipe book that has helped simplify your life? You have fabulous taste! Share it with your friends and family! You just might introduce them to their new favorite thing. 

Here's a few of my favorites: Jennifer Lopez Faux Fur Throw, Bumble and Bumble hair products, and 'Get the Guy' by Matthew Hussey book.

Who doesn't love their photo plastered along the side of a mug? Well, your loved one may appreciate a gift with photos of family, friends, or a beloved pet! Nothing adds that personal touch to a gift than photographs of loved ones. It's the type of gift that you would appreciate and love but likely wouldn't buy it yourself. Shutterfly can turn just about anything from canvas prints to coasters into a photo gift. Or if you're feeling inspired, you can DIY a scrapbook! 

A few years ago, my sister and I ordered canvas prints for our parents with their wedding photos- specifically ones of them with their parents. Another year, we made a scrapbook with every family photo Christmas card of us from 1983 to recent years for our parents. It was a big hit!

You know those things that you need but aren't very fun to buy? Save your loved ones the trouble by getting it for them! But who wants to open up a beautifully wrapped gift to find a pack of batteries? You can make it fun by putting together a cute themed gift basket. For that funny friend of yours, try a 'Things You'll Need For The End of The World' basket. You might include a pack of batteries, flashlight, first aid kit, or gas card. For your mother, you might put together a 'Entertainer Essentials' basket with cheese and crackers, seasonal serving spoons, and an adult board game.

Try an inspirational book! If your mother is a big fan of Oprah, you may give her Oprah's memoir. For a recent college graduate, you may pick up a career starter guide book or a memoir of a successful figure. If you haven't got a clue what book to get, try a quote book! Who doesn't love to be inspired?

I know for me, it was a shock when I grew into adulthood and found that the majority of my money went to bills and things I didn't want- like tires, groceries, and gas. Who knew living was so expensive? That being said, I'm always saving up for something fun that I want. Whether it be a designer handbag, a vacation, or a fancy electronic. 

The best gift you can give is a VISA gift card to go towards that 'big ticket' item your loved one is saving for! Be sure to include a cute card that says 'a little something to go towards your next vacation' (or the item) so your gift receiver knows that you were thinking of them.

What are you getting for that person that has everything?

 

Friday Favorites Link-Up

Taylor Swift 1989 Album // Ghost by Ella Henderson // Kate Spade Compact Mirror 

Cupcake Pinot Grigio // Merona Bow Cloche Hat

Here we are, again- it's Friday! It has been a long, eventful week so right now I can really say 'TGIF!' So without any further ado, I'm ready to share my Friday Favorites for the week! 

1- Taylor Swift's 1989 Album: It's finally here- Taylor's new album! I'm not typically a 'fan-girl,' but when it comes to the lovely Ms. Swift- I can't resist! I was so mesmerized by her 'Red' album so I was extra excited for this new album to be released. Since switching over to the pop genre, her music now has a cool, unique vibe. I'm still getting used to it, but there's definitely a handful of songs I'm already in love with. I bought mine from iTunes, but you'll get 3 bonus songs if you buy it from Target.

2- Ghost by Ella Henderson: This song hasn't really caught on yet with the masses, but I am completely obsessed with it! I don't know what it is about it- it just makes me want to sing! This talented Brit is definitely an artist to watch.

3- Kate Spade compact mirror: I'm so obsessed with Kate Spade anything but this compact mirror is especially fave-worthy. I love this brand's style but more than anything, I love how they slip little empowering messages into their products. This mirror says 'let your hair down.' Sometimes we just need a little reminder!

4- Cupcake Pinot Grigio: Ok, so I admit it- I'm pretty obsessed with wine. It has absolutely become my drink of choice. I like sweet things, so this Cupcake Pinot Grigio is perfect for me! Not to mention, I can't stand opening wine bottles. This one makes it easy by having twist top! It sounds cute, tastes delish, and accommodates my lazy tendencies. Can't lose with that!

5- Merona Bow Cloche Hat: I love fashion and styles from the 20's. If I could be a Flapper every year for Halloween, I absolutely would! That explains why I am loving these cloche hats. They're super cute, especially when it has a bow on it!

What are your favorites of the moment?

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3. Link-Up!

Friday Favorites is all about sharing and promoting your favorite things! Whether it's an outfit post, a round-up of new obsessions, or a new DIY project- I want to hear about it. Every Friday I'll post my current favorites and you can link-up to share yours!

4. Socialize!

Check out some of the other fabulous bloggers linking-up with us and let them know you found them here!

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3 Ways to Show Gratitude at the Office

Showing Gratitude at the Office by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore

As we're heading into the holiday season, we often reflect on the positive things in our lives and the act of giving to others. But as we worry ourselves over what gifts to get for who and what wrapping paper to use, we should instead be using a simple phrase; 'Thank you.' 

 

There is power in gratitude and I think it's best said by Maya Angelou:

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou

That being said- we spend the majority of our waking hours at the office. And with the popularity of technology and our fast-paced, on-the-go culture- we even interact with our colleagues outside of those 40-hours a week. This is not to complain but more so to point out the real importance of being kind to those we work with! 

 

But how can we show gratitude at the office? Believe me when I say it, it's the little things that count! Here's 3 Ways To Show Gratitude at the Office!

1- Offer Assistance: There's nothing worse than feeling like you're drowning in work! Sometimes there's just those weeks where it seems like every upcoming deadline is one after another. When you see your colleague is super busy, ask 'what can I do to help?' My boss does this at our office and it's amazing how powerful that phrase is. It's a relief to know someone has your back and it's the ultimate example of teamwork.

2- Random Acts of Kindness: It's nice to be kind! It makes you feel good. It makes the recipient feel good. It's a win-win! The best thing about it is that it doesn't have to be a grande gesture. I've had colleagues add some paper to my printer while loading theirs up. I have also experienced colleagues saying 'hey, I ordered you some ink because I noticed you were low.' It often takes little extra effort, but the result is so much greater!

3- Bring Food: We all have to eat at some point, right? Nothing says 'I appreciate you' like bringing in a dozen bagels just because. Chances are, it will save someone a trip out to pick-up breakfast. Relief!

How do you and your colleagues show gratitude at your office?

8 Fur-tastic Winter Statement Accessories

It's November and if you're from the east coast, you know what that means. Cold weather is on its way- it's almost Winter! Literally the only way I've survived out here during these months for my 26 years of life is... winter accessories! Yes, I'm being serious. I despise everything about the winter, so from a glass half full perspective- at least I can enjoy the fashion! And if that means mittens and earmuffs, then count me in.

This year seems to be all about the faux fur. I'm super excited about this because I love faux fur anything. It's beautiful and so very luxe, yet bold! Best of all, it's warm. A trend that's both practical and fabulous!

1- kate spade new york 'raccoon' faux fur hat, 2- embellished faux fur headband, Topshop 

3- august hat faux fur earmuffs, Nordstrom, 4- faux fur buckle cape, Topshop

5- faux fur cossack, Topshop, 6- twist faux fur snood, Topshop  

 7- faux fur stole, Topshop,  8- faux fur paw mittens, Topshop

How to Style Blush With Burgundy

Blush & Burgundy by theclosetbychristie

Burgundy is the big color of the season- or at least it's my favorite color of-the-moment! It really is everywhere. However beautiful, it may seem like a daunting task to style. What exactly can be styled with burgundy? Is it safe to say burgundy is the new neutral? I'd like to think so! One pairing I have seen that is gorgeous, yet a little daring is blush and burgundy.

 

Here's a quick color theory lesson! Blush and burgundy seems like an out-of-the-box pairing but it can be considered contrasting, or even monochromatic. If you know colors, then you'll know that burgundy is a deep purple-red while blush is a pale pink. So- they're in the same color family, yet on the complete opposite ends of the spectrum based on depth.

Now that we know it's a great pairing, how exactly do we style them together? Pretty much however you want! If you're a color person (like me!), try pairing a blush oxford top with a burgundy pleated skirt. If you're more of a neutral gal, try a simple pop of each color. 

The look I styled above shows the latter example. We have an all grey color palette with a pop of blush on top and a pop of burgundy on the bottom. Because the colors don't overlap in any way, it doesn't necessarily seem like they are paired together. It's kind of a trick to the eye!

Have any of you paired blush with burgundy this season? Link to your favorite blush and burgundy look in a comment to show me how!