Friday Flashback

{Hubby had bought me tickets to see Diana Krall for Valentine's Day, but the concert was postponed to this past Wednesday. It was absolutely well worth the wait! We spent a romantic night filled with the sounds of sultry jazz.}

Hello Lovelies! Happy Friday. Say it with me T-G-I-F! This has been a very stressful week for me with HUGE deadlines and presentations, but has ended up on a definite high note. I have been completely overwhelmed this week and was determined to find the little things in each day to make me smile. This weekend I am looking forward to spending some quality time with friends, catching up on some needed correspondence and simply enjoying some quiet time. Here are some things making me particularly happy this week.


{An inspirational quote that helped me get through the trying portions of  my  week!}



{Gorgeous wild flowers in the spring.}

{Some comfort food. A bowl of tomato soup and grilled cheese.}

Such a Little Tarte

Recently I ran out of my MakeUp Forever Mat Velvet foundation. I was completely distraught when Sephora was out of my particular go to shade (At three different stores no less!). You would think that going to a shade lighter or darker wouldn't be so much of a problem, but anything I tried I just did not like.

In complete dismay I asked the sales girl what would be a comparable foundation to what I was using in another brand for normal to oily skin. What she recommended to me was Tarte's Amazonian clay 12-hour full coverage foundation.

Can I just tell you, this is like airbrushed foundation without the air! It is so easy to achieve total skin balance while still achieving that natural  look.

Whether your skin is oily, dry, or combination, skin-smart Amazonian clay will intuitively adjust to address your complexion concerns. This revolutionary foundation also reduces the appearance of pores, while minimizing discolorations and imperfections to ensure a perfectly flawless complexion.

Having been a MakeUp Forever girl . . . for as long as I can remember, my guard was definitely up the first month or so of  trying this product. The only thing that makes this foundation less than perfect for me is that I do end up with oily break-through on my t-zone mid-day. However it doesn't discolor or separate. Just a little bit of shine.

Will this be my new go-to foundation?  The jury is still out on that one, but I definitely recommend you give it a try.

What I'm Wearing Wednesday

{Khaki top NY&Co, pants NY&Co, "Eat Me" necklace ModCloth, Clarks Wish Envy black shoes, gold hoop earrings gifted, two toned Fossil watch}

Hello Beautiful. Spring is definitely in the air, and I am loving every single minute of it! Changing my wardrobe up from the darker hues to the more lighter airy colors has me in such a happy mood. I'm not sure what it is about this outfit that I love so much. Maybe it is the pink/lavender pants, or perhaps the whimsical "eat me" necklace ala Alice in Wonderland, but something about it simply puts a smile on my face (Maybe it is the countless compliments I received on it. . .that could be it too *wink*). 

 

 

 

Retro Chic

Retro chic. A term I think of quite frequently when I think of my favored fashion style, for both men and women. When I think of retro chic, I think of clothing, accessories and items that get their inspiration from earlier decades, notably the 1940's and 1950's.

For me, I can think of no other style icon from that era that I would rather model my own wardrobe after than that of Audrey Hepburn.

Audrey's style was timeless and much of what she wore is still all the rage today (That is because her style forsook trends in favor of classic, clean lines and simple styles.). Since Audrey's look has been so influential on modern fashion, here are some of my favorite ways that I blend her Hollywood style into my own personal look. 

Skinny black pants

Audrey loved her cigarette pants almost as much as that sleek cigarette holder from Breakfast at Tiffany's. Luckily, skinny pants are all over the scene today. Pick up a pair in black (They go with everything) and match it with a black ballet flat for that sophisticated city girl chic look.

Boatneck sweater

An elegant boatneck sweater with three-quarter-length sleeves oozes nautical-infused glamor.

Chic up-do

You know me, I'm all about my hair. Audrey's classic up-do brings a sense of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. Achieve the same look with a French twist or secure a bun with a pretty clip.

Big sunglasses

Audrey wore few accessories but when she did, they packed a punch; think big strands of pearls or one stunning brooch. And of course, your Audrey look wouldn't be complete without those enormous, sin-hiding black sunglasses. It worked for Audrey, it worked for Jackie O - What are you waiting for?

What's your favorite item on the list?  What do you think of Audrey Hepburn's style?

Let Me Introduce You

Many people come into our lives each and every day. Some you just have one brief encounter with and never see again, while others become an important part of your life and you know they will always be a part of it.

I'm sure you all have noticed by now that there has been a link added on the right side of this blog to Steven E. Gantt's website. Steven is an actor/model/clothing designer/philanthropist, who I have had the extreme pleasure of not only meeting, but calling my friend.

I want to take a minute to really introduce you to Steven. I know you can easily see him on TV or Google his name to read more about him, but I want to tell you about the Steven that I know and honestly adore. . .

The thing that strikes me the most about Steven is his genuine personality, his dedication to every project he partners with and his extreme caring for those in his life. I cannot begin to tell you how supportive he is of ME and how much that means to me.

In a recent interview, he was asked what his "dream job" was. I didn't know what to expect the answer to be, but what I read was absolutely humbling,

"Oddly enough its not so much a job per se, but I am the eternal rooter for the underdog. Life, as you all know (hopefully) is hard enough just on the day to day – minus all of the external bs that comes and goes into our lives. Sometimes people just get stuck in a rut or are dealt a crap hand in life and heck if I can in some way help them better their lives, then THAT seems to be something worth leaving behind when we die. So it's not a dream job, it's just the mark I want to leave on the world. My job as is is most men’s dream job but life should have more meaning than what you do for work – it's about character and who you are that defines you."

If you follow this blog, you know I talk a lot about fashion and style and recently delved into the realm of men's fashion with this fashion 101 guide for men. Steven, to me, is the epitome of what a well dressed man should be. He is in the process of launching his own clothing and cologne line that will be called Jagger (Named after his son). I know that this line is destined for greatness and I cannot wait to highlight it on I Look Good Today.

If the clothing line wasn't enough to keep him busy, Steven is working on bringing to life his own non-profit called BaBa – Building a Better America. When he first told me about BABA I was floored with the idea. . .I loved it! In a nutshell (You can read more about the details here), he will be assisting the unemployed with housing to help them get back on their feet. Our country is in such a state of turmoil. Our neighbors need our help, and thanks to Steven's efforts, they will get it.

I have met a lot of people in my lifetime. Steven is a person that never ceases to amaze me. He always has a word of encouragement for me, he makes me laugh and he undoubtedly has the biggest heart of anyone I know.

I strongly encourage you to check him out at the links below. You will be glad that you did!!!

StevenEGantt.com

@ThisStevenGantt

http://www.facebook.com/thisstevengantt

http://pinterest.com/stevenegantt/

P.S. Check out what Steven wrote about me in his blog post today here.

Friday Flashback

{After my blog post yesterday one of my bloggie BFFs, Hillary from Daisy to Sunflower and I realized we are twins, born on the SAME DAY. . .just 10 years apart. Can't you see the resemblance?!}

Hello Lovely. What a week this has been with a lot of exciting things happening. I can't share much of the details yet, but I promise they will be worth the wait (The suspense makes it so much better anyway!). I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend. I have been running at full speed for weeks and need a little R&R. I can see a bubble bath, a few favorite movies and some hubby cuddle time in my future! Here are some other things that made this such a great week.

{My new favorite perfume!}

{Celebrating a good friend's wedding anniversary.}

{Lunch with my good friend Kellie Lightbourn.}

It's a Sign

Growing up I loved everything suns and moons and stars. I had celestial accents throughout my bedroom, bought school accessories with the same theme and any fashion accessories I could find.

I was also fascinated with reading my daily horoscope (As silly as it was each day). Although I didn't put a lot of stock into what was written in the stars for me, I did find some truth in my character traits when it came to being a Taurus.

Warm-hearted Taureans, like myself are drawn to earthly indulgences, like nature-inspired prints and versatile separates that satisfy their appreciation for both practicality and pretty things. Woods-inspired wedges may make you think Bulls are all about the outdoors, but don’t be fooled. These patient-yet-persistent beings definitely take a liking to the finer things in life, like wine and luxury, too. Treat Taureans to some of these clear-skies staples and they’ll be loyal to you forever!

I am loving the new zodiac inspired line through ModCloth. I may be a Taurus, but I want one of everything in this line.

What's your sign?

P.S. Check my men's fashion 101 guide at http://fedoras.com/blog/wardrobe-101/.

 

What I'm Wearing Wednesday

(Cardigan from Forever 21, Seamless Bandeau Strapless Tube Top, pants from NY&CO, Fossil watch, earrings gifted}

Hello Gorgeous! This week has been the most incredibly beautiful weather and I am SO grateful to pull out some of my favorite spring pieces from last, year like these pale blue pants, and add in some new favorites like this sweet bow cardi.

Domestic Darling

In an effort to start eating more healthy, I have been spending more time in the kitchen preparing food rather than heating it up in the microwave.Though I recognize that although I can cook, I am not Rachel Ray, I do enjoy spending time in the kitchen and think that if I had this Jessie Steele apron, I would be more inclined to hone my culinary skills. It’s not too frilly like so many of the aprons these days. When it comes to aprons, I'm not quite into all the floral patterns and lace trim that simply laugh at my lack of domesticity (Plus they make me feel like Alice from the Brady Bunch). I do believe this black and white design shows just enough feminine grace and will surely hide all of the cooking mistakes I’ll be spilling down my front.

From Where I Sit: I Don't Want Your Pity Party!

Something has been eating at me recently, and until I read this post on my good friend Steven Gantt's blog, did it hit me as to what it was.

Steven was talking about obstacles he faced in his life and then went on to say, "Stop your pity party, I’m alive so it’s okay."

With a huge smile on my face, I thought, yes, that is what it is. I don't want your pity party either!

Having lived my entire life with my physical disability I know nothing different. This is how my life has always been, and to tell you the truth, I have completely rocked it!

Every so often I will encounter a person that I can tell simply feels sorry for me. . .and it DRIVES ME CRAZY! First of all, I don't feel sorry for me, so you shouldn't either.

This is how I look at life. . .there is a purpose for me being in this chair. It may not be abundantly clear as to why I am, but there is a purpose. Maybe it is so I can be the strength for others in my similar situation who need a little inspiration. Maybe it is so I can help to break the stereotypes of those with disabilities because I refuse to be labeled. Maybe it is so when someone is feeling defeated (disabled or not) they can look at me and say, "Wow, if she can do it, so can I." Or maybe it is none of those things. Maybe it is because God knew that despite all the challenges I would face, He had provided me with enough spirit that I could handle this life.

I don't look at my life as a burden; I look at it as a blessing, challenges and all. I love that I have been able to break down barriers and overcome obstacles and I look forward to whatever life brings me in the future, and sharing all the excitement with all of you!

Friday Flashback

{Even though the Starbucks Barista spelled my name wrong, I love that our cups say Jaime and Jaime's Husband!}

This week has been full of little pick me ups. An impromptu stop at Starbucks for a warm, sweet treat with my hubby, the sweetest voice mail from my favorite six-yr-old patient telling me she loves me during a hectic day, a fun evening out with my BFF and the most amazing hour long massage. After my scare in the hospital last week, I was determined to stop to enjoy the little things that happen in my day-to-day life that simply put a smile on my face without letting them slip by unnoticed. I hope you have had a simply wonderful week.



{There are those certain people in your life that warm your heart just by being with them. Wanting to have a special lunch with me and sit on my lap for some pictures, this little one made my day! How can you NOT fall in love with her?}

{A gorgeous porcelain flower ring with a diamond in the center. It was my mother's. I used to wear it all the time when I was in high school and started wearing it again recently. I love its vintage look!}

{Laughing so hard with my BFF while watching one of our favorite movies. I think we have seen it about A BILLION times! If you've never seen it, grab an Amazon promo code and order it.}

{You've heard me mention my hubby and love the TV show Archer. We recently bought the book "written" by the infamous spy. If you want a good laugh, this is a MUST READ!}



 

Everyone's Irish on St. Patrick's Day!

So I may not have one ounce of Irish in me, but that doesn't mean this Italian girl won't be showing her Irish spirit by wearing green on St. Patrick's Day. Or it could be that I just don't want to be pinched :)

Here are a few of my favorite items to give any girl the luck of the Irish and leave everyone green with envy!

{Green lace top}

{Musee Rodin Skirt}

{Holly lace floral dress}

{Large 4 leaf clover necklace}

{Emerald green Gucci Python Purse}

{Green Glitter High Heel Shoes}

{BAX Ankle Green Leather Boots}

Promotional code savings are often available for Paddy Day (or any holiday!) style here.

What I'm Wearing Wednesday



{Top from Forever 21, pants from Macy's}



Good Morning Beautiful. I know this isn't the usual way that I post outfits to the blog, but I couldn't leave this one out.

Today I had not intended on sharing this outfit with you until I saw it in a picture at work, so sadly, this is the only shot I have to show you.

I have always LOVED this top. I love the blue and the sparkles that are throughout (It matches my sparkling personality!). I always feel very good when I have this top on. . .probably because I always seem to get compliments when I wear it.

My gray pants are also a favorite of mine. They are one of the most comfortable pair of pants that I own, and as such I seem to wear them all the time.

Although this was the only shot of me wearing this top today, here are a few pictures taken a while back with this same top on. What do you think of it?