Sunday, May 26, 2013

A Very Snakey Saturday

Finding fun bracelets to put together is my new favorite thing to do in my spare time (many of you will not understand this...some of you will). If you know me, you know that my biggest fear in the world is snakes. So, as you can imagine, I was completely torn when this cute snake bracelet (from Francesca's) was staring me right in the eyes. I needed it to complete my arm party. One big step for Kacey...one small step for mankind.
Watch: Michael Kors  Bangle: Forever 21

Classically Cool

My best friend Megan has a fabulously beautiful and trendy family so it only makes sense to broadcast it to the world. Her sister, Laura (above), is cool meets chic meets girlie. Laura is keeping it extra cool today in a J.Crew shirt over an easy breezy Forever 21 dress. She polishes off the look with Marc Jacobs sunnies and a little Moroccan oil to keep that gorgeous red hair looking smooth and tame. This is a perfect example of mix-matching your favorite separates to create a new look. Keep on rocking it, Laura.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

(Cat) Mother Must

I'm not a "crazy cat lady" (if you don't agree, bite your tongue) but I do love my fury feline. So, naturally when I saw her name as a ring, I got a little giddy. Every (cat) mother needs one. Find it on www.urbanoutfitters.com.

Blaze It Up


Lately, my fashion goal for myself has been to create outfits with pieces I'd not normally put together. I purchased this skirt at H&M and knew I'd be able to have a little fun with it. Mixed with a grey v-neck (Urban Outfitters) and a black boyfriend blazer (also Urban Outfitters), the outfit took a new feel. Topped off with fun gold jewelry, wavy hair and spiked smoking slippers, the look was finished. Hooked on blazers and skirts after today. 

Safari Sass

Safari...office...same thing. I have been scouting for army green pants for months and finally found the perfect pair. Could it get better? Yes. They were all of $15 from H&M. They were basically GIVING them away. What's even better? They are high waisted. My dream come true. I decided to add some animal flair to the pants with a fun leopard print belt, plenty of foxy bracelets. In addition, the necklace has a tribal vibe to it.
Shirt: Gap  Necklace: Gift from Australia  Belt: Banana Republic  Heels: Jessica Simpson

Join the Arm Party

If you're not laying your bracelets, why even wear them? Ok, so that's a biiiit extreme. However, "arm parties" are indeed all the rage right now. Above, I've taken several different pieces to give my wrist a little va-voom. From left to right: Target, J.Crew, Lindsay Nicole, Michael Kors, Lindsay Nicole. 

Essie Essential

I realized after all these manicures, I missed actually doing my own nails. Yes, it's a pain to let your nails dry and yes, I never fail to mess at least one nail up and have to start over but...it's my kind of fun. Since I've been on the hunt for the perfect red-orange mix since birth, I was dying to find this new Essie shade (Saturday Disco Fever). Oh hello, honey. With one coat of OPI base coat, two coats of this pretty polish and a finale of Seche Vite top coat, I'm ready to rock. 

Monday, May 20, 2013

Loco for Length

There is simply nothing easier than tossing on a dress and being done. No matching required with a maxi dress. Love love love this new dress (from H&M). Paired with some glitzy sandals (Lady Godiva), some neutral stone earrings (Francesca's) and some arm candy (watch: Michael Kors, bracelets: Juicy Couture and Lindsay Nicole) finishes off the outfit. Easy breezy. 

Telescopic? Totes.

After hearing my coworkers raving about eyelash extensions - something that I'd love to try (if it wasn't going to cost me hundreds) - I have been trying to find the perfect mascara...a mascara that would give me a little more pow! So, how delighted was I when I found two new L'Oreal mascaras to try in my product package last week? Over the moon, sugar. I've tried the one above, Telescopic Shocking Extension. I'll admit...I'm a little hesitant about all of these new, funky brushes. I'm old school about my brushes...like my typical bristles. However, this one won me over. This product gave me the length I was looking for. I even had someone comment on my lengthy lashes today - boom. 

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Hella Hydration

As part of my L'Oreal package of goodies, I received these three Power Moisture products. I'm always hesitant about using cheaper shampoos or conditioners because as someone who some would say "over-processes" their hair, you have to be sensitive when selecting products. However, not only did the shampoo and conditioner above smell heavenly, but it also left my hair feeling soft post-shower. In addition, I tried the mask (to the left) for the first time tonight and loved it! While the mask calls for only a 3-5 minute saturation time, I left it on my hair for an hour (so sue me) and after showering, I'd say it's safe to say my hair appreciated the extra 55 minutes of love. If you are looking for a less expensive line up to add to your hair product rotation, these have my blessings. 

Friday, May 17, 2013

Sneaks are Chic



Absolutely raving about sneakers with dresses and skirts right now. It's just...maj. So, I've taken an outfit I wore with red patent flats and decided you show three different fun sneaks that you could rock. Plus, I've been looking for excuses and reasons to wear these shoes. In the top photo, you'll see my teal Ked-like kicks that are so fun to wear in the summer. Love these with the white skirt - such a fun contrast. Find them in numerous colors from Vans, Keds or even Target (around $15). In the middle photo, I've paired the denim shirt and white high-waisted skirt with Jack Purcell sneaks (a little punky factor with the no-laces look). I've only worn these one (to a movie night - so doesn't even count in my head) so I'm pumped to have a new style to wear these with. The bottom photo shows you the outfit with some hightop dark teal shoes from Urban Outfitters. The point is....time to try out this trend. It's like pairing a leather jacket with a super feminine dress...unexpected but it works.

Red Fatale

For my first L'Oreal product review, I of course opted for the red lipstick first. This fun rouge product is call Infallible and was amazing! It stayed on really well throughout the work day and went on smoothly. It had enough moisture but didn't look glossy (which I don't like in a lipstick - just a personal preference). I only had to reapply this once the entire day - talk about a miracle. I would absolutely recommend this line of lipstick and I can't wait to try this same product in more colors! Cheers to the ever-fabulous red lip!

Lost in L'Oreal

Receiving a massive box of free L'Oreal treats to try out - basically Christmas morning for a girl like me. Thank you to Allie who sent me these fabulous products to test and review! Ranging from hair masks to lipsticks to spring polishes, Allie sent me so many fun new products. Keep an eye out for product reviews so you know if these are products you'd want to try.

Splash of Color


With the sun out in full force, make sure you're bringing a little color into your outfit mix. These dark coral pants are not only comfortable (nothing better than a little stretch to your pants!) but perfect for jazzing up a less-than-flashy cream top like mine above. Wearing a fun necklace over my shirt/under my collar is one of my favorite trends right now. I decided to keep a fairly consistant gold throughout the outfit, including the belt, shoes, jewelry and sunnies. In addition, this is work-appropriate and who doesn't love a new idea to spice up your Monday-Friday.

Blue For You

I have been LOVING royal blue nails. So, when I saw Essie had a brilliant shade of blue polish, called "Bouncer It's Me", I had to have it. Try an even brighter blue for a great look at tan skin. Love love love. For a professional finish, try my favorite top coat (Seche Vite).

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Gimme Gimme Green

I am off the gel manicure train for a bit. My nails needed a breather and so did my wallet. I opted for a traditional mani last night. Yes, they may chip within 24 hours (most dreadful situation ever) but not to fear - I have a bunch of new polishes to use when this one gets old. The green is a brighter version of the favorite spring color of the year, mint green. The brighter color will fun with tan skin the hot Florida summer is sure to bring me.

Your Office is Your Runway

I can't get enough of this hammer pants (Forever 21), as I call them. Paired with simple nude heels (Jessica Simpson) and a plain white v-neck (J.Crew), these pants really add a groovy factor to a work day. Added a chunky, blinged-out necklace from Charming Charlie's and my "sock ball" to add a little glam to this 'fit. In addition, it was the perfect opportunity to take this very grey outfit up a notch with my new fuschia lipstick (post to come). Who says going to work can't be fun? Use your office as a runway to keep your 9-5 ever exciting.

Socks Buns Turned Sock Balls


Believe me...I rock a sock bun like it's my job. It's the ultimate second day hair move or in my case the ultimate lazy/I woke up late/I wanted 10 more minutes of sleep move. However, I have been wanting to spice up the typical sock bun. So, I took the beige sock bun that I made and squished it together making more of a little donut hole (unfortunately not of the Krispy Kreme descent). After scrunching the sock bun into a knot/ball, I wrapped a similarly colored hair tie around it, securing the ball shape. I place my hair in a bun, resting the sock ball above the pony. I then wrapped the hair hanging from the pony around the sock ball and secured that with another beige hair tie. Voila - a funkier sock bun. Looks fancier than it is - just how I like it.


Honey in High Tops

Who says girlie girls can't wear fun sneakers? High tops? Absoltely. These, from Urban Outfitters, were a random purchase I made when I still lived in the Midwest. I didn't know what I'd ever wear them with but I knew they were funky fresh and I had to have them. To this day, I believe I've only worn them once. However, I have been loving the sneaks with skirts and dresses phenomenon so expect a post on that in the next few days. Until then, don't forget...sneaks can be chic, honey...plus, they won't leave your feet numb, miserable and crippled like heels.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

These are a Few of My Favorite Things: Fresh Purchases Edition

A good deal is never out of season. Here are few of my favorite recent purchases that didn't break the bank. The grey sweatshirt is from H&M and makes this casual top a little more edgy with the cropped bottom. Maybe this would be a cute top for those new wedge sneakers everyone has been rocking? On the top right is a mustard purse that I could just about fit in - but perfect for traveling or a weekend trip. The gold accents and studs adds a little something (available on Amazon.com). On the bottom is a pair of bright sneaks I purchased for under $15. Teal is such a fun color and the white/bright color mix is fun with a summer tan. 

These are a Few of My Favorite Things: Skin Edition

There is nothing more important than taking care of your skin. No one wants to look 65 when they're 35. Nothing cute about that. Allow me to share with you a few of my favorite products. On the top right is Dr. Teal's epsom salt (eucalyptus spearmint). It's perfect for soaking and the eucalyptus spearmint is the ultimate remedy for relaxing and relieving a tired body. To the right is my new favorite sunscreen. Neutrogena's Beach Defense smells good, blocks the sun (SPF 30), and is water resistant for 80 minutes. It's Neutrogena - doesn't get much better for your skin than that brand. In the top right is my favorite moisturizer. The Body Shop's seaweed mattifying moisture lotion has SPF 15 is perfection for combination/oily skin and is an all-in-one oil-balance, moisturization and UVA/UVB protection. Bottom right is St. Ives fresh skin apricot scrub. This a basic that everyone needs. This product helps scrub away the impurities and makeup from a long day and refresh your skin. I use mine twice a week. Bottom left is Johnson's baby bedtime lotion. I use it before bed and the calming lavender scent is the ultimate relaxation trick before hitting the hay. 

These are a Few of My Favorite Things: Gift Edition

Some of my favorite things around my apartment were gifts from loved ones. Chanel Chance (pink) is probably my favorite scent at the moment. Above right, this cookie cutter in the shape of Indiana is a perfect reminder of my home state. Nothing like warming the soul with cookies, especially ones that remind you of where you came from. Nicole Richie's book, signed by her, was an exciting gift for me as she is one of my favorite fashion icons. Ray Ban polarized aviators...a Florida necessity. 

These are a Few of My Favorite Things: Hair Edition

I'm not in denial...I am, in fact, a product junkie. I'll try anything to see if it gets my hair softer, longer more quickly, higher, bigger, more conditioned. Luckily, hopefully by reading these posts, you don't have to shop around nearly as often as I do. Above are some of my favorite hair products that are tried and true. Top left is Paul Mitchell's Awapuhi Keratin Intensive Treatment. This heavy duty conditioner does miracles. Leave on during your entire shower, washing out at the end and voila - silky hair. To the right of the conditioner is my favorite post-shower serum. This "renewing" Moroccan Argan Oil Penetrating Oil by Organix is a must-have. At right at $6, there is no reason to not buy it. This product restores shine and softness and strengthens your hair. A girlfriend of mine at work even runs it through her hair during the work day to counteract mid-day dry hair issues. To the right of the oil is a hair pick. Of course, if you know me, you know I carry around a much "rattier" version from the 80's (it was my mother's and is a heirloom in my eyes). Back-combing is not just something you do to your hair - it's a way of life. Big hair, honey. It's everything. Next, we have Peter Coppola's argan oil finishing spray. Not only does it smell heavenly but it's perfect for non-hairspray lovers (I happen to LOVE hairspray). When wearing my hair curly, I use this as an all-over spray to help the curls hold without a crunchy, hard look. In the middle is my Conair sock bun maker. Buy one, try one, love one. Perfect for second day hair and an effortless up-do. Bottom left is my trust leopard print J.Crew headband. I use this thing to get the hair out of my face while doing my makeup, washing my face and for a fun day outing. Bonus - it's not cheap looking leopard print. 

Keep it Keratin

Since I started getting the Paul Mitchell Awupui Keratriplex conditioning treatments, I've been keratin-obsessed. So, finding out one of my favorite hair product companies, Organix, has a new keratin-infused line made me want to shout from the rooftops. Not only does this line come in a super chic hot pink bottle (bonus points), but it smells amazing and after leaving the conditioner on for 5 minutes (as suggested on the back of the bottle), your hair really does feel softer. I'll give my two thumbs up. 

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Fancy Fascinators

Celebrating the Kentucky Derby annually means one thing: you have to out-do however you looked the previous year. This is the exhausting part of being a woman. Since I wore a hat last year, I wanted to switch it up this year and create my own headpiece. I scoured Etsy to find something to recreate - plus, of course I'd waited until the last minute and literally couldn't order anything in time for Saturday's race/party. One thirty minute trip to Joann's and $18 later and I had everything I needed. Total, it only took me probably 20 minutes to make this fascinator and it was so fun to wear (hats ruin your hair style - duh).

Fresh Faced

Living in the Southwest Florida in the summer means one thing: sweat. Not a much more attractive way to put it...perhaps "glisten"? Regardless, this type of heat does not allow you for a face caked with foundation and powder unless you're totally kosher with your face melting off 3 minutes after walking outside. This BB Cream is super moisturizing and light. With SPF 30, it's perfect for summer. Unlike some tinted moisturizers, this cream doesn't look oily. This specific brand of BB cream offers about 5 shades and is under $9. Bargain.

Party Meets Professional

Casual Fridays means different things to different people. Sometimes it means wearing the same blouse you'd typically wear with trousers or dress pants and trying a pair of jeans instead. For me, it's about wearing something I couldn't get away with on a Monday through Thursday. For instance, this amazing new Def Leppard t-shirt (obviously because my favorite song is "Pour Some Sugar on Me") with a blazer. Paired with black wedge heels, some fun spike earrings and some rocker hair waves. Find similar shirts at Target.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Share and Win

Like Big Heels, Big Hair? Post on your Facebook a link to this blog (tagging Kacey Weaver - from Fort Myers, Florida) in the post. Share your favorite post or the entire blog - whatever you want. Sharing this and tagging me in the post will enter for you to win one of my new favorite trendy pieces - to be announced at a later time.