Spring Trend: Pastel Blazer

We LOVE blazers. Period.  No matter what season, color, or style... they are always flattering.  Oversized, classic, tuxedo, pastel, frilled, and the list goes on.  They do what a cardigan can, but with a little extra cinch and panache.  A blazer is a very stately and confident piece of clothing.  Not matter the woman or outfit, she will make a statement in any room.  Even if you are only wearing a graphic tee and leggings, throw on a blazer and you simply POP!

This spring Pastel Blazers seem to be hitting the runway, retail stores, and your closet in a fast way.  Well, we could not be happier! We love this trend!!! Not because it is so simple to use with such an amazing impact... but because it is so much fun to wear!

Perfect with a Romper or Dress... Just to add a little something extra.

Sweet as a Peach Blazer: $29.50, Mint Condition Romper: $49.50, Seahorse Necklace: $40,

Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40, Bound & Determined Wedges in Taupe: $36

Great with your Winter or Spring Whites for a clean and polished look.

Sweet as a Peach Blazer: $29.50, White Camisole: $15, Clean Slate Skirt: $34, 

Tortoise Necklace: $40, Gold Cuff: $21, Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40, 

Bound & Determined Wedges in Taupe: $36

And great with Spring Patterned leggings to take you from to a step up from casual.

Sweet as a Peach Blazer: $29.50, Black Camisole: $15, Gold Drip Enamel Necklace: $19,

Floral Leggings: $15, Bound & Determined Wedges in Taupe: $36,

Gold Cuff: $21, Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40

We have been running slim on these lovely blazers (which just so happen to be a steal), but we have more coming in on Friday!  Also, those lovely denim jackets you were promised... Will be here today!!  Can't wait to see you in store or your order pop up online!

Inspiration Piece: Denim Jacket

Levi's released it's "Type 1" Denim Jacket, it's first, in 1936.  Clint Eastwood showed men how to bare their denim in the Westerns of the 1960's... And even though women were wearing them long before, Thelma and Louise showed women a thing or two about denim in 1991.  The iconic movie rocked the box office and the fashion world forever!  

Well... We decided to take this iconic wardrobe staple and play it up with some of our great new dresses & rompers to show you how perfect we can make it work!

Pocket Full of Posies Dress: $69, Bound & Determined Wedges in Black: $36,

Green Pendant Necklace: $36

Wild About You Romper: $48, Bound & Determined Wedges in Black: $36,

White Bubble Necklace: $25

Such a Sweet Heart Romper: $59, Bound & Determined Wedges in Taupe: $36, 

Gold Drip Enamel Necklace: $19

High Maintenance JUDITH MARCH dress: $98, Sole Mate Shoes: $36,

Gold Drip Enamel Necklace: $19

Now, Please don't think that we are only advocating to wear this amazing jacket with just a dress... We LOVE it with everything down to t shirts or leggings.  There is nothing a denim jacket can't make its way through.  No matter, Preppy, Bohemian, or Punk Rock, a denim jacket always has a place in your closet!  We have a brand new shipment coming in tomorrow - They will only be $36.50! Keep watching us on Instagram, Facebook, & Pinterest for our new Roadhouse Blues Denim Jacket to hit online!  We just wanted to give you guys a little sneak peak! Comment and tell us your favorite ways to wear a denim jacket! Talk to you on Thursday!

Pinspired Outfits

Pinterest has proven it self as a great tool in the social media world.  It can be a marketing tool, an inspiration board, a recipe book, a wish list, and the possibilities go on and on.  So many people, including all the ladies here, sometimes use Pinterest as a point of inspiration, whether it is a craft, recipe, or outfit... so now that idea is forever "Pinspired!"  

We love looking at fashion on Pinterest!  We get to see what other people are doing with fashion, how they are wearing it, and get some awesome ideas about what we can bring to you!  We love having Pinspired Outfits.  Most of the time, when you see that great little outfit, every piece is so expensive... Well we are duplicating some of the most Pinspired Trends and Looks on a Budget!  Check it out...

Pinspired Outfit #1: Floral Kimono 

Left photo from styledomaine.com

Turquoise in Caicos Kimono: $29.50, White Tank: $15, Jeggings: $38, Bound & Determined in Taupe: $36, 

Liz Crossbody bag in Coral: $24, Gold Chain Link Bracelet: $24, Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40

Pinspired Outfit #2: Pastel Blazer with Navy Striped Shirt

Left Photo had no ID

Sweet as a Peach Blazer: $29.50, Sweet Necessity Tee in Navy/White: $31, Jeggings: $38, 

 Bound & Determined in Taupe: $36, White Bubble Necklace: $25, Liz Crossbody Bag in Gold: $24,

Gold Chain Link Bracelet: $24, Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40

3. Pinspired Outfit #3: Fresh Mint Skirt with a Crisp White Top

Left Photo via Tarah Murray 

Creme Brulee Top: $23.50, Feelin' Flirty Skirt in Mint: $34, Bound & Determined in Taupe: $36,

Charlotte Tote: $40, Gold Chain Link Bracelet: $24, Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40, 

Diamond Cluster Necklace: $28

We have been getting in some great new merchandise for Spring... So we just wanted to style a few up for ya, just the way we like!  We know that you have been seeing these looks and trends done up with different details on Pinterest and everywhere else!  

Make sure that you are following us on Our Pinterest Page to see our new arrivals, what is inspiring us, and what is coming next!!!  Talk to you on Tuesday!

Spring Transition

I am sure that in every store that you are walking into that you are seeing Spring colors, patterns, and just overall bright merchandise all around you.  Most of you have expressed, and we feel it too, that it is a little bit crazy when there is still snow coming down.  We are all antsy for warmer weather and those cute spring pieces that are in every store.  Not to worry, you can definitely style those bright colors and vibrant patters in a way that you can start wearing them now, and then lose a layer or two and wear it when the sun starts shining a little bit more.  

So we put together a few outfits that use a great spring staples and make it presentable for NOW!

1.  The Iconic Ivory Skirt: Pairing this skirt with a cute coral top, would be a spring go to - but when you add a little army jacket to the mix, you can wear it now!

Easy Does It Jacket: $47.50, Sweet Necessities Tee in Coral & White: $31, Clean Slate Skirt: $34, 

Soul Mate Shoes: $36, Surfside Evening Clutch: $36, Diamond Cluster Necklace: $36

2.  Show Stopping Dress: So many cute dresses out, whether they are maxi, sun, or shift - You can pair them with a great cardigan, jacket, or even tights if need be for now.  You can totally wear that dress you have been staring at in your closet NOW!

Calm & Collected Cardigan in Black: $29.50, Resort Fling Dress: $38, 

Bound & Determined Wedge in Black: $36, Cut Out Clutch in Mint: $36

3. Spring Blazer: We all love the structure of a great blazer and how flattering it can be.  We love it even more in beautiful colors that only show up in hotter weather!  There is a way to tone it down, just for the moment, until you can bring it right into spring.

Prep Work Blazer in Ivory: $42.50, Sweet Necessities Tee in Navy & White: $31, 

Jean Jeggings: $38, Rock the Boat Scarf in Mint: $14, Liz Crossbody Bag in Coral: $24,

Bound & Determined Wedges in Nude: $26

So the moral to this transitional story is... You Can Wear It NOW!  We have all kinds of great new spring styles coming in and we know just how to style them for now and later!  So lets play dress up!  

On Thursday, We are gonna go a step farther and talk about taking a spring inspiration piece, and mixing it up a few different ways!!

Finishing Touches

There's nothing I love more than makeup. Buying it, applying it, the whole deal. I do a lot of bridal, prom & pageant makeup, which is always so fun, so I decided to share some of my tips to help you get ready for tomorrow's special night!

One of my favorite products in my makeup bag is my Benefit Brow Wax. I have sparse brows (ugh) so this helps to fill them in without looking fake or too "made up". Even if you have thicker or dark brows, I still recommend this as it as a wax base which helps to smooth unruly hairs and gives a polished look.

Eye makeup is my favorite part of my routine!  My secret weapons are my Benefit High Brow Pencil, to give your brows an instant arch & really make your eyes pop. 

My second is Dior's SkinFlash. I use this under my eyes & on my eyelids for an instant glow, that hides those dark circles that can make you look tired.

Last, but absolutely not least is eyeliner & mascara. I use a Trish Macavoy gel liner. It's a little pricy (around $30.00) but it lives up to the price tag. It won't budge & leave you with raccoon eyes after a long day. As far as my mascara, I always choose a waterproof brand. I have long lashes, so if I don't my mascara ends up on my brow bone which is so annoying! I like Benefits They're Real Mascara.

As we all get ready for celebrating with those we love, whether it's a special someone or a special group of ladies, we all want to look our best. That includes accessorizing our look! Below are some of my favorite pieces from casual to a little bling:

Get to the Paint Infinity Scarf in Hot Pink: $14

Take a Dip Infinity Scarf in Rose: $14

Diamond Cluster Necklace: $36

Diamond Stud Earrings: $12

I hope everyone's night is extra special! I would love to hear your makeup tips or special plans you have!

ALSO, Don't forget you can still use the Code: BLOGGER on the website to recieve 15% off of your order + an extra surprise with each order!!!

*Your order can be for shipping or in store pick up

Wishing Everyone Lots of Love,

The Valentine's Scramble

Only a few more days until Valentine's Day!  I know that we are all in a scramble to figure out:

 What to Wear, Finalize Plans, & Make Everything Extra Special

Well, We want to help you with all of these!  So, today we want to just touch on some extra special pieces (new arrivals), that you can snap up for your plans, whether out or at home.  Some great ideas for dates or ladies night.  And maybe a recipe or two.

When thinking about a holiday that is all about Love, we think everything should have a Touch Of Pink!  Check out these new arrivals that are screaming for everyday, but can be great for a special night.  Dress them up or down, we know you can!

Wild About You Romper: $48, Get to the Paint Infinity Scarf in Hot Pink: $14

Hot Around the Collar Top: $51, Mint Chain Bracelet: $18

Calm & Collected Cardigan in Black: $29.50, Drop Me a Line Tank: $44, 

Gold Chain Link Bracelet: $24, Jean Jeggings: $38

We know that if you are going out... You probably already have reservations or set plans on where to go.  I know that lots of ladies procrastinate finalizing special plans when you are staying in.  So here are a few ideas...

What about a Fondue night? It's easy to make, keep warm, and you have so many options.

Chocolate Fondue

From Epicurious.com

Healthy bonus: 1 serving of fruit per 1/2 cup of sliced fruit, magnesium, and selenium from nuts, vitamin C from strawberries, fiber from nuts and fruits

      Dipping foods

• 1 pint fresh strawberries
• 1 red apple, cored and sliced
• 1 green apple, cored and sliced
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup jumbo cashews
• 1/4 cup Brazil nuts

Light chocolate sauce

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons Splenda Granular
• 1/2 cup skim evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

preparation

Thoroughly wash and dry strawberries and apples. Cut apples and banana into 3/4-inch-thick slices. Arrange all fruits and nuts on a plate. To make chocolate sauce, whisk together cocoa, sugar, and Splenda in a medium-sized bowl. Slowly pour in milk to make a paste. Mix together to remove lumps. Transfer to a medium-sized saucepan and bring to a low boil over low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Transfer chocolate sauce to fondue pot. Place pot over candle or canned heat burner. Slide fruit pieces onto fondue fork or toothpick and dip into sauce. For nuts, spoon sauce onto a plate and dip nuts in sauce by hand.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 183 calories, 6.8 g fat (1.8 g saturated fat), 32 g carbohydrates, 5 g protein, 5.4 g fiber

Nutritional analysis provided by Self

And we do love a ladies night!! And what better thing to do than have a CHICK FLICK MOVIE NIGHT!  Cuddling up with girlfriends, lots of popcorn... Maybe you end up crying it out or laughing out loud, either way you have a blast!!  Here are some of our Favorites of All Time: 

 

And something EXTRA SPECIAL - We are going to have a Coupon Code that is exclusively on the Blog! We know that you are getting set for Valentines day & that we may have some snowy weather on the way! So we want to offer...

15% Off Online!! Using Code: BLOGGER

**This Code is good through Midnight Friday, Feb 14.
PLUS... A special little Swanky Surprise tucked in with every order!

 Show us some blog love and tell us what you are using your 15% on!! We will have more coupons & give aways that you will only be able to get to HERE!!  

On Thursday, I am going to focus on the finishing touches, with some special make up and jewelry tips.  Because no outfit is complete without the toppings!

Outfit Hunting

So if you are anything like most of the girls here, you are still on the fence with what to wear for Valentine's Day, or any day for that matter.  So yesterday, I decided to do some serious shopping!  What are some of my favorite items here in the store?  What would I want to wear? What does it pair perfectly with?  We had just restyled so many of the looks in the store, I was in just the right mindset to put together a few more great looks!

So I have three kinds of styles I want to show you...

1st we have the girl who wants to be ultra comfortable, but definitely does not want her look to say that that is all she is thinking about.  So I thought this would be the perfect pairing... Some of our New black textured leggings, our Sweet Necessities Top, and a great colorful scarf.

Arizona Summer Scarf: $14, Sweet Neccessities in Coral: $31, 

Velvet Touch Leggings: $15, & Bound & Determined Wedges in Black: $36

Or maybe, you want something that is just a step up from leggings, but still has a lot of snazzy, without having to wear a dress.  I thought this would be a perfect match, especially since any scarf can go with this sweater.

Get to the Paint Infinity Scarf in Red: $14, Armed & Fabulous Sweater: $54, 

Jean Jeggings: $38, & Sole Mate in Congac: $36

And there is always the possibility that you want to go all out! What lady does not want to get Swanky once and a while?  So a hot pink dress is definitely the way to go.  Even if it is a little cool outside, this dress paired with a great denim jacket can be a fun a different way to wear it.

Sugar & Spice Dress in Hot Pink: $41, Bound & Determined Wedges in Taupe: $36, 

Ivory Clutch (also comes in Hot Pink & Turquoise): $24 & Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40

Now just because we are talking about Valentine's Day, does not mean that the looks we put together in my shopping around the store cannot work for you in everyday way.  The great thing too is that right now we have so many pieces that can be mixed and matched.  We have had some great times this week shopping with customers putting together something for spring, a special birthday outfit, or just some jewelry to top off some Swank they already have.  Come by and we can help you finish off your look, because we have some great new things in, so get um while they are hot. ;)

A Date Night In

Not every lady wants to go out on Valentine's Day.  I know that restaurant waits can be daunting and crowds can be a little over whelming.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with cuddling up at home on Valentine's Day... but just because you are at home, does not mean that you are not thinking of what to wear.  We put together a few super cute outfits, that are also very comfortable, for a great evening at home.  

Go with the Flow Top: $28.50, Diamond in the Rough Leggings: $15, 

Bound & Determined Wedges in Black: $36, Bauble Necklace in Mint: $24

Go with the Flow Top: $28.50, Diamond in the Rough Leggings: $15, 

Bound & Determined Wedges in Black: $36, Bauble Necklace in Mint: $24,

Calm & Collected Cardigan in Black: $29.50, Sweet Neccessities Top in Mint: $31, 

Pocket Full of Posies Leggings: $15, Bound & Determined Wedges in Black: $36, 

Rectangular Pave Bracelet: $40 (in store only), Through the Looking Glass Necklace: $16

Also, I mean what is a Valentine's night at home without a special dessert?  We know that between Christmas, New Years, Super Bowl, and now Valentine's Day, that we have all been infiltrated with super rich foods.  So, I thought we would make this recipe a little lighter, but still super yummy!!!

We found this recipe with Detoxinista online for 

Raw Chocolate Cheesecake (Dairy-free, Grain-free)

Total time:  20 mins

Serves: 12

Prep time:  20 min

A rich chocolate cheesecake, that’s free of dairy and refined sugars, and loaded with a full CUP of veggies!

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 2 cup raw pecans
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt

For the filling:

• 2 cups raw cashews (no need to soak)
• 1 cup peeled & diced zucchini
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust by placing the pecans in a food processor fitted with an S-blade, and grind them into fine meal. Add in the rest of the crust ingredients, and process again until well combined. Line the bottom of an 8-inch spring form pan with plastic wrap or parchment paper, then press the crust evenly into the bottom of the pan. Place the pan in the freezer to set, while you prepare the filling.
2. In a high-powered blender or food processor, process the raw cashews until they are a fine powder. Add in the zucchini, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt, and blend again until a smooth and creamy batter is formed. Add in the melted coconut oil, and blend again to fully incorporate the ingredients into a uniform filling.
3. Pour the filling into the frozen pie crust, and allow to set for 8 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Serve directly from the freezer, for best texture. *Note: This cheesecake will become quite soft if left out at room temperature, so be sure to keep it chilled!

We hope that you  ALL have a great Valentine's Day, no matter what your plans!!  We will be coming back on Thursday with some last minute outfit ideas and some of my favorite picks.  

Don't Forget...