shopping Archives | Page 25 of 30

World’s Longest Yard Sale: What to Expect and What I Came Home With

August 12, 2014

I’m sure if you’ve been reading the blog for a while that you know that I love to go thrifting. For me the thrill of the hunt is equal in fun to the visiting new places and creating new memories.

And when it comes to a road trips, the hubby and I don’t hesitate to jump in the car and head down the road to explore a new thrifting spot. After attending our first WLYS (World’s Longest Yard Sale) a few years ago, it’s a trip that we look forward to each year and one that we plan for.

I get asked a lot about the sale and what we do to prepare so I thought I’d share a few insights with you today.

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Longest Yard Sale 2014–900 Miles of Bargain Hunting

August 11, 2014

Happy Monday!

We’ll we made it back from the World’s Longest Yard Sale in one piece and with some money still in our wallets. The trip was great despite the hot temps, major down pours of rain and humidity like I’ve never felt before.

This is our 4th year going to the yard sale and every year the trip is filled with adventure, interesting sights, great bargains and a few regrets. So as not to overwhelm you in this post, today I’m giving you the highlights of our trip and some of the great things we spotted. Tomorrow I’ll be back to share what we bought and a few ideas we’re already thinking about for next year!

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Rooms Inspired by HomeGoods–Blue and White Lamps

July 30, 2014

Happy Hump Day! I hope your week is going swell and that you are doing great things!

Today I wanted to share with you a few room designs I created, inspired by HomeGoods.

Every time I walk through HomeGoods, I find myself snapping pictures and envisioning how I’d use a particular item in a room. Instead of keeping my imagination to myself, I’ve decided to share my vision with you in a new series that will be popping up on the blog from time to time. It’s called Rooms Inspired by HomeGoods. Sometimes I’ll be sharing room designs, sometimes it might be an entertaining tablescape or it might be a vision I have for chic bathroom. The rooms and spaces I feature will vary, but the inspiration will all come from something I’ve spotted at HomeGoods.

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32 Fashion Tips That Will Never Go Out of Style

June 24, 2014

Build your wardrobe to break down like this–70% classics, 20% novelty and 10% trend. The classic pieces in your wardrobe should include items like solid colored cardigans, pencil skirts, black pants, dark denim and white shirts. These classics will serve as your fashion foundation and easily allow you to mix and match with the other items in your wardrobe. The 20% novelty should be represented by items like patterned blouses, print skirts and fashion blazers. And the 10% trend are styles, silhouettes and colors that are hot for the season–items like patterned pants, novelty sweaters and print dresses.

Know what styles look best on you. Try on the things you have at home to get a feel for the styles and silhouettes that look best on you and accentuate the parts of your body you like most. Then head to the store and try on more clothes. The more time you spend getting comfortable with your personal style the more confident you’ll feel when shopping and wearing the pieces you buy.

Buy quality fibers and materials and AVOID ACRYLIC. Cotton, wool, cashmere, linen, silk and flannel are always good fabric choices and will stand up to long-term wear and care. Fabrics like acrylic and polyester usually show their wear within a season through pilling and surface shine. When buying cashmere, buy the best quality you can (if you pull the fabric and is doesn’t spring back its a lesser quality).

When buying novelty or trend pieces, buy complete outfits. Novelty and trend clothing is usually designed to represent a hot color or pattern of the season, so it’s important to buy different pieces in that color family so that you have items that work together long term.

Buy key pieces at the end of each season to build your fashion foundation and save money. The end of the spring and summer season is a great time to buy tanks, cami’s and layering tees. At the end of the fall and winter season look for light weight cardigans, blazers and denim. One of your best sources for clothing pre-season is outlet malls which typically have items 3 months before the season begins.

Organize the clothes in your closet by category and then by color within each category. This will help you see what you have, identify core items you need to purchase and help you stay organized.

If you are wearing a loose fitting top pair it with a slimmer fitting pant. Likewise, if you are wearing a wide leg pant, pair it with a slimmer top. Wear clothing that gives you a balanced appearance and avoid an all-over baggy look.

Don’t buy over-sized clothing thinking it will make you look smaller. The area just under the bust is a woman’s smallest torso measurement, so emphasizing it with a structured waistband that hits higher than your natural waist will make you look a size smaller.

The most slimming fashion statement you can create is wearing one color head to toe.

Know your neckline. The neck and decolletage area can make or break how you look in a top. Figure out if you look best in a v-neck, crew-neck or other neckline. You want to accent this area to draw the eye to the face and help give you an overall leaner look.

Invest in an accessory wardrobe so you can add personality to your wardrobe. Scarves, belts, necklaces and earrings can turn a classic fashion piece into a fashion statement. When buying necklaces, buy pieces in different lengths so that you have pieces to work with a variety of neckline styles.

Save money on footwear by creating your own fancy flats. Buy flats in basic colors and then use inexpensive but stylish clip-on earrings to Up-Style them. Yard sales and thrift stores are a great source for cheap clip-on earrings.

To make your legs appear longer, wear shoes in the same color family as your skin-tone. Your legs and foot will create a seamless line and your legs will appear longer.

When buying denim, buy a pair that has a snug fit. Denim always stretches and buying a relaxed fit from the start will result in a baggy fit when the jeans stretch.

Wear jeans at least two times before washing. I’ve heard fashion experts say jeans should be worn 3 to 4 times between washes to maintain the fit and the color. To help with fading, turn jeans inside out when washing.

Never dry your bras in the dryer. Dryers will breakdown the elastic and underwire quickly and result in ill fitting bras. Wash bras on delicate in cold water and then hang them to dry.

If you spill something on your clothes, don’t rub the stain instead blot the stain. Rubbing can break down the fibers and actually embed the stain further into the fibers. p.s. this also goes for carpet stains–blot, don’t rub!

Alterations can be your best friend when it comes to fashion. Always buy clothing to fit the largest part of your body and then have the garment altered to fit where it is too big. Well fitting clothes actually make your clothes look more expensive and higher quality.

When packing for a trip, roll your clothing pieces instead of folding which will help cut down on wrinkles. It will also save space in your luggage.

A basic white tee is one the best fashion buys you can make. A white tee can be dressed up or down, worn with any color and can be layered under just about anything. When you find a tee that fits, buy 3 to 4 so you’ll have a fresh one when one wears out. Same goes for a well fitting pair of jeans.

Wear a t-shirt bra when you wear a t-shirts to keep your bust area smooth. It’s not a flattering look to see lace details or bra seams under a tee.

Wear the right color lingerie. Don’t wear a black bra if you are wearing a white blouse or top. Wear nude or natural lingerie with white, cream and lighter colors and wear black with darker tones.

Have several black pairs of pants in your closet that work with different heel heights. Hem a pair to work with flats and a pair to work with heels. An ‘all-purpose’ length will end up looking OK with some shoes and bad with others.

Always look at yourself in a black tee under light to make sure the fibers aren’t see-through. In many cases light-weight black fabrics have a see-through nature to them which may show up under light. If you are attending an event where photos will be taken, try on your outfit at home and have a couple of pictures taken of you. Check the photos to make sure you’re not exposing something you weren’t aware of.

Always check your rear view before leaving the house. Most of the time people look in the mirror before they leave the house to see how they look from the front but don’t always check the back. Make sure your clothes fit from all angles.

An inexpensive way to Up-Style an inexpensive blouse or blazer is by changing out the buttons. Pearlized, tone-on-tone and leather buttons are always a good option.

Wider belts are typically more flattering then thin belts. Wider belts pull your waist in and help define it.

Always keep an emergency kit in your handbag or car. The kits should include safety pins, double stick tape, a lint brush and a stain remover stick.

When in doubt, Overdress. In today’s world, jeans can be worn to just about any occasion but there’s nothing worse than showing up at an event under-dressed. If you don’t know what the dress code is, overdress. There’s no harm in looking too pulled together, but you’ll feel uncomfortable if you think you look out of place.

If you feel uncomfortable, you probably look uncomfortable! Your confidence is affected by what you’re wearing, as sad of a thought as that might be. So if you’re feeling self-conscious about your outfit, you’re likely to be tugging at it or double-checking that everything is in place all day and night. For instant confidence and a feel-good attitude, always opt to wear your favorite color…mine is red or something bright!

Take care of your footwear. I don’t know how many times I’ve been somewhere are seen someone dressed to the nines only to look down and see scuffed shoes or even worse, a heel with a missing cap.

Take photos of your favorite outfits (including jewelry) and hang them in your closet for easy reference. It’s always good to remember outfits that made you feel like a million bucks, especially if you’re trying to get dressed in a hurry.

Dress you age! Enough said.

Beach Bum!

June 16, 2014

Hello there! We’ll, all good things must come to an end and our 1st summer vacation was officially over last night! Bummer! I am already missing the beach, the sand, the sunrises and sunsets and just doing nothing! I could easily live the life of a beach bum but work and responsibilities are calling. I’m going to ease back into the work week (which of course is slammed with to-do’s) and take one more opportunity to relive our vacation. Join me why don’t you!

This was our first time visiting Jacksonville, Florida and it did not disappoint!

The sunrises were spectacular…

as were the sunsets.

The palm trees were ginormous…

and the sand was soft and filled with beautiful seashells.

The dolphins came out to play. The morning that we were leaving there must have been 20 or more just off the shoreline.

Even when the skies were grey the beach was beautiful!

One day we made the 40 minute drive over to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the nation. OMG is this city stunning.

Some of the most beautiful architecture I’ve ever seen.

You can see the Spanish influences in the colors and details of the buildings.

St. Augustine has one of the oldest churches in American with the largest collection of Tiffany stained glass windows.

The old stone fort that protected the city during battle.

The bay was filled with beautiful sail boats and ships.

I’ve got dibs on this as my retirement home.

Old stone drinking well for the horses that pulled the carriages in the streets.

We stopped by the oldest home in Florida.

One of the stops on the trolley ride we took was at this winery and distillery. Funny how most of the passengers got off here to take the tour and do some sampling!

A beautiful peacock perched on an entrance post!

You never know who’s looking!

Of course I had to do some antique shopping while on vacation. We popped into about 10 antique/thrift store and I found a few treasures.

If you ever visit St. Augustine be aware that they know there antiques in this city. The collections are vast and the prices can be steep but there are treasures to be found.

We had a great time on vacation and it can be summed up by the beauty of this image.

all images by ConfettiStyle

Fashion Focus: Off The Shoulder Fashions

June 3, 2014

As the weather has warmed (ok, it’s gotten down right hot), have your noticed all the off-the-shoulder fashions that are showing up everywhere?

Just as I started writing this blog post I clicked over to Instagram and noticed a new posting from fashion illustrator Inslee. How funny that they very topic I was writing on was depicted in her latest original art drawing entitled June. Just goes to show you how hot this fashion trend is.

original art–June by Inslee

For spring and summer, I think the off-the-shoulder look is lighthearted and fun and is a look that most people can pull off. I do however think there are a few rules you should follow when wearing this look…

1) Don’t Wear a Bra with Straps! Off-the-shoulder tops are meant to be worn strapless bras so that the shoulder area is clear. Nothing ruins this look easier than your bra straps showing.

2) Opt For a Loose Causal Fit! Because you are exposing skin already, you want your top or dress to be loose and carefree. A more form-fitting off-the-shoulder top should be saved for evenings out or special occasions.

3) Avoid This Look if You Have Broad Shoulders! If your broad shoulders are a feature you don’t like to play up then you might want to avoid this look. Off-the-shoulder styles will make the shoulder area look broader.

4) A Longer Length is Better than a Shorter Length! Off-the-shoulder looks feel more like sportswear when they are longer in length. Look for styles that hit at the hip as these will be most flattering with shorts, slim pants and skirt. When it comes to dresses, lengths that hit at the knee or slightly below as well as maxi dress styles are the most flattering.

5) Off-The-Shoulder Styles Warrant Bold Jewelry! This is look is perfect when you want to show off a statement necklace or blog earrings and it’s a great way to draw attention to your face.

Here are a few of my favorite spring and summer off-the-shoulder pieces:

Nordstrom

Forever21

Asos

So what do you think? Is this look for you or will you be passing on this fashion trend?

You can see more of Inslee’s fabulous artwork, in her online shop!

Woodstock, GA and a New Favorite Shop

May 30, 2014

Happy, Happy Friday!

Even though I don’t have any major plans this weekend (catching up on work) there are several things to be excited about.

1) Word on the street is that Oprah is in town for the filming of the movie Selma, which she is also producing. The movie is being filmed in downtown Marietta so I just might have to head that way to see if I can get a glimpse of her.

2) I’m being featured on TerrysBlinds Designer Insights series and I’m thrilled about it. I’ll share the full feature tomorrow.

3) I don’t know if I’m ready to pull the trigger yet but we’re going to look at kittens.

4) and finally, I’ve got a great new store to share with you.

All good things!

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A couple of days ago my dear friend Sheila invited me to lunch and a shopping tour of Woodstock where she lives. Even though Woodstock is only about 30 minutes away from me, I’ve never visited the downtown area so I was excited to check it out.

Woodstock is located north of Atlanta and is a growing and developing community. Over the last few years, the downtown area has been developed into a mixed use area with the most adorable homes, townhouses, shops and restaurants surrounding main street.

One of the businesses that Sheila took me to was the Leaning Ladder. The store sells wine, vinegar and the most amazing selection of gourmet olive oils you’ll ever see. If you love to cook this is definitely a place you want to check out.

Sheila also took me to several home decor/gift stores all of which were cute but there was one that really stood out to me. Having owned my store for many years it’s hard to find a store that makes me take notice but LINDEN did that and easily made it onto my list of favorite shops. Let me take you on a tour!

Linden is located in an old home that oozes of charm and character. Laurie, the owner has filled each room with a wonderful collection of French and English Antiques, home accessories, unique lighting, original artwork and European Influenced Florals & Garden Plantings.

This wall basket was a stunner!

I loved all the weathered wood, wicker and rough luxe decor.

There are vintage treasures all throughout the store.

One of the rooms is dedicated to garden decor, plants and natural elements.

Laurie didn’t miss a beat and created the cutest product vignettes in each closets throughout the house.

Linden had a great collection of shells, coral and starfish at fantastic prices.

I loved this old wooden basket.

The store also has a great selection of tabletop and gift items. I will definitely be going back to pick up a few of the white ceramic platters and plates.

So many beautiful pieces to use for entertaining too!

I could go on and on with how great this store is but I won’t give it all away, you’ll just have to go check it out for yourself . And tell Laurie I sent you.

For those of you that don’t live in Atlanta, good news, you can shop Linden online!

Linden

8722 Main Street

Woodstock, GA 30188

Lindenwoodstock.com

Tues-Sat. 11-5

While you’re visiting downtown Woodstock, check out these other great shops —Pineapple Park and Christine’s Creations!

Happy Shopping!

images of Woodstock via google

What to Get Mom for Mother’s Day?

May 5, 2014

Greetings! I hope you had a great weekend! My weekend started off awesome and ended the same way so I have nothing to complain about. The sunny skies and warm weather were an added bonus.

Did you get out and do any shopping this weekend? Maybe looking for a Mother’s Day gift like me?

If you were out and about you probably noticed that a lot of stores have spring sales going on now. It’s a great time to pick up spring fashion accessories, home décor accents and spring footwear.

If you follow me on Instagram (which I hope you do), you saw that I mentioned the buy one, get one 50% off accessory sale at Target. There are some really great pieces that would make fab Mother’s Day gifts.

How about a pretty scarf for mom ($14.99)…

or maybe a summer tote bag ($34.99)!

I spotted several scarves and summer totes I wanted for myself but after getting the “not another handbag” look from the hubs I decided a trip on my own was in order so I’m heading back today to do some more looking.

Another store I popped into over the weekend was C. Wonder. You all know I love that store! They have their additional 50% off sale going on now and if you or your mom loves monograms you don’t want to miss this.

This monogram iPhone case is $24.99 less 50% and every letter is a different color combo. I couldn’t pass up the ‘S’ since it was my favorite color combo–red, white and gold.

I know my mom would love a monogrammed mug paired with her favorite tea. The mug is $7.99 less 50%. You can’t beat that and it’s never to early to start thinking about Christmas gifts too!

This monogram pillow cover is gorgeous in person and I wish I would have found an M but no go. $29.99 less 50%.

If you’ve wanted one of the classic C Wonder nylon totes, now is the time to snag one on sale. Not all the sizes are on sale but the mini and Easy tote sizes are. Mini–$44.99 and the Easy tote is $59.99 less 50%. You can also get the bag monogrammed for an extra $10. What mom wouldn’t love this?

If your mom loves to entertain, she’ll love these fun herringbone coasters. Set of 4 for $34.99 less 50%.

And I love this Trellis print travel case for $49.99 less 50%. There are more sizes available too!

Mother’s Day is fast approaching and I need to get my gift wrapped and in the mail. Come back tomorrow and I’ll show you a fun and easy gift wrapping idea your mom will love.