The Little Things

We are bringing back our post series, "The Little Things." Some of my most favorite things are things that give me comfort, and some of my most favorite things in the world are things that bring me back to good times with good friends. Every one of these items has a backstory as to why it, and the people it represents, are special. Here are some of those items...

Kuna necklace

On my honeymoon, my husband and I went on a cruise around Italy & Croatia. On this cruise, we made 6 lifelong friends--two couples from Canada that we met because we were sat at the same table, and on an excursion to Dubrovnik, Croatia, we met two of our best friends--Kelli & James. On this excursion, Kelli, James & my husband climbed a wall around a city--I was hot. I stayed down below. Because of this, they took photos for one another at the top of the wall, and quickly became friends. I met Kelli & James when they all came back down. Kelli and I bonded on that trip over the terrible wine we had at a local Croatian winery, over our seafood lunch and, finally, over this necklace. This was our last stop in Croatia, and we had to spend the rest of our Croatian money (Kuna). Right beside the ship, there was a little marketplace. Kelli helped me find this necklace, as well as decide what color to get it in, and that was the start of a beautiful friendship. Luckily, Kelli & James only live about 2 hours from us. For that reason, we get to see them fairly frequently, and they are an incredibly important part of our lives. Every time I wear this necklace, I think about how fortunate I am that we all decided to take this cruise...and that I chose not to climb the wall, while Kelli & James did.

The most recent acquisitions to my magnet collection

In the summer of 1994, I got a job working at an arcade on the Jersey Shore. It was here that I met one of my best friends in the world--Summer. For many, many years, she and I were inseparable (I literally had a key to her house!). Then, we became adults and moved far away from one another. But, we still spoke every day. When I was in my early to mid twenties, I lived in New York City and Summer lived in Philadelphia. While I was living there, I started buying fun and funky magnets to grace my fridge. In the summer of 2004, Summer and I decided to take a vacation together--she took me on my first trip out of the United States. While there, I decided that we needed to buy magnet souvenirs to add to my growing fridge magnet collection. In that moment, a tradition was born. Since then, everywhere Summer and I go, we buy magnets for ourselves and for one another (we even have magnets from places we've lived!). Even my husband has gotten in on the fun--whenever he goes on a business trip, he brings me back a magnet. It is my intent to take these magnets and display them in a shadowbox, but as my life gets busier and busier, that project keeps getting put on hold. However, my favorite part of every vacation is finding a magnet that I know that not only represents the place I am, but will also be loved by both Summer and me.

This song makes me smile every single time I hear it

I met one of my best friends in a dressing room during a dance show in college. Gina & I bonded over the ridiculous silver pleather pants some of the girls had to wear. (Of course I had to comment about fashion!) I helped her put on her sparkly rainbow wig, and we became lifelong friends. During my senior year of college, we would often listen to the song "Candy" by Mandy Moore while driving around in my Jeep Wrangler. To this day, every time I hear that song, it instantly transports me back to college, and my good times with my dear friend Gina. She may live 5 hours away from me now, but that song always makes me feel like I'm with her, which is why whenever one of us hears that song, we will text or call each other, just to say, "Hey, I'm thinking of you," which makes me feel like we're not so far away from each other.

The best lip balm ever

In my early 20s, I lived in the city and loved to go shopping at a place called Ricky's. It has a variety of oddball stuff, but, I loved it because it had a wide variety of beauty products. (I have forever been in search of the perfect shampoo & conditioner...I have thick, wavy hair and haven't found the perfect product yet!) Whenever I see a new lip balm, I feel like I must try it. In the early 2000s, I stumbled upon Burt's Bees. At that point, it only came in the tin...which made me a little hesitant to try it because these tins can become super messy. But, one use and I was ultimately hooked! It seems to be the only thing that works well on my chapped lips. Since that point, you can always find me with more than one tube of Burt's Bees (since it came out in the tube, I have ditched the tin!). You can find one in my purse, one in my work bag, another one with my work keys, another one in my desk, another one in my coat, another one in my car...I'm never far from a tube of Burt's Bees. I have tried most of the different flavors that it comes in, but I'm still partial to the original...there's nothing like that tingle! Bonus? It reminds me of two of my best friends...1) It reminds me of Robyn. Robyn and I met when we were in college--we pledged the same sorority freshman year, we lived in a suite together sophomore year, and while we weren't super close, we remained pretty good friends throughout college. After college, Robyn and I were both single in the city, and started spending a lot of time together. We became incredibly close, and so, since Burt's Bees reminds me of my time in the city, which, inevitably reminds me of bar hopping and man hunting with Robyn, Burt's Bees always makes me think of Robyn. 2) It reminds me of skiing with Summer, because whenever we'd go, we'd always have a tube or two of Burt's Bees with us, to make sure that our lips didn't get too chapped on the slopes!

Mmm...Cheez-Its!

Lastly...Cheez-Its. I know...you're thinking Cheez-Its? What the heck? Well, about three years ago, Lauren and I went on our first road trip together. Since we both have dear friends in Boston, we decided that we would drive up there together. Lauren picked me up from work on a Friday afternoon, and was so excited that she had stopped and brought us snacks. One of those snacks was Cheez-Its...something we both love. We tore into those Cheez-Its pretty quickly, but sadly realized that she accidentally bought a disgusting flavor...not the originals. So, we stopped at a rest area to get replacement snacks, and I volunteered to throw the Cheez-Its out...accidentally spilling all of them right outside the garbage can (I figured the birds would be able to eat them). The two of us were so hysterical laughing...it was a great start to a fun road trip...one that we, unfortunately, had to cut short because snow was heading our way. However, we talked non-stop on the way up, and non-stop on the way back...even though we've been friends for 32 years, we still managed to find things we had never talked about before. Even though we are best friends, I somehow felt even closer to her after this trip. Sure, I could have found a billion different things that remind me of Lauren...things like my knitting supplies, the scarves she made me (including the fabulous one she just gave me this weekend), my jewelry, makeup, old photographs, even a headband with two springy spiders on top...any of those things. But, because of how much fun we had on this trip and how much closer we felt (as if we had even thought that was possible) after this trip, as well as our love for the salty, cheesy goodness that is Cheez-Its, I just feel this was the best possible way to honor my oldest friend, Lauren.

Thanks to all of you out there who make these "little things" so special to me! Hope this reminds each and every one of you to appreciate the little things in your life, as well!



Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com

Chopping it Off... Again

Looking back at the posts on TAL, I realize it was over three years ago that I chopped 11 inches of my hair to donate to Pantene Beautiful Lengths * (click on link).  Well, I did it again, this time 10 inches gone.  This is the third time I've donated my hair to Pantene.  This Organization makes wigs for women battling cancer and cannot afford to purchase a wig of their own.  It takes six ponytails of donated hair to make one wig, so every inch counts.

Before: My hair in October, 2013

After: New Cut and First and Only Selfie!

My chopped hair ready to be sent to Pantene

I've explained my reasons for doing this before, but it warrants saying it again.  My mother bravely fought against Stage 2 Breast Cancer when she was 36 years old.  I was 7 at the time.  I didn't fully comprehend how sick my mother was.  My mother showed such grace and strength during a time when  she was fighting for her life.  10 years after she was cancer free her doctor very bluntly told her, that she should not have survived her cancer.  I know how fortunate my family and I are to still have my crazy wonderful mother with us. 

I share this story with you to bring to light to the fact that I don't ever forget the struggle my mother experienced, and how all the time I've had with her since is not time I take for granted.  I donated my hair to honor my mom. I know that I am guilty of focusing on how my hair looks, and always wanting it to look great, but in chopping off 10 inches of my hair, I take a step back and realize that my hair doesn't define me.  

  

I hope that everyone will take a second to click on the above link and check out the organization. I know there are other organizations that make wigs for children. I think any donation of hair is a great thing, so if you are thinking about donating your hair, I would say pick whichever organization you want!!  

Love, 

*TAL and I are not receiving anything from this organization, but just really love the message that it sends to women and the Work they do.  

Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com

Lessons Learned in My First Year as a Mom

Sometimes, I look back at the past year and it's a blur. Diapers, spit-up, sleepless nights... Other times I can't believe a year has gone by so fast and that my babies are already a year old--there were so many amazing moments in this past year. Becoming a mom has changed me in ways I've never imagined...and taught me so much about myself and about life.

LESSON 1: THINGS DON'T GO AS PLANNED
When my husband and I decided to start a family, I really believed that it would be easy. We figured that I would get pregnant in the month we wanted, then we would have the baby in the month we wanted, making for an ideal maternity leave. I was wrong--very wrong. Three years and a lot of heartache later, I finally found out I was pregnant...with twins. To say we were overjoyed would be putting it mildly. Of course, we started to make plans. Things like, "We don't need a bassinet in our room. The babies will sleep in their cribs from the day they come home from the hospital." (They didn't.) Or like, "I'm not going to let my kids watch any TV until they are at least 6 months old, preferably a year." (That lasted two months.) Or, "I know there's a higher occurrence of preemie births with twins, but I plan on going at 38 weeks." (They were 7 weeks early.) The most valuable lesson I can take away from this? THE BABY MAKES THE PLANS, NOT YOU, SO BE FLEXIBLE!

LESSON 2: DON'T JUDGE
Ok, I'll admit it. Before I had kids, I was one of those women who would judge the choices other people made with their kids. After all, I had loads of experience with kids--I come from a big family. My youngest aunt is only 9 1/2 years older than me, and she had five kids of her own--the oldest came when I was 17. I have a copious amount of dear friends who had children before I did. I've played the role of babysitter many, many times. So, of course, in my mind, that made me qualified to comment on people's parenting choices. In short, I was a naive ass. I quickly learned that while I did have some knowledge from my babysitting experiences, being a parent is an incredibly different thing than being someone's babysitter. I used to judge people who let their children sleep in bed with them. Until my children were 4 or 5 months old, I would repeatedly take them into bed with me, just so that we could all get a little sleep. I used to judge people who would put their kids on the phone when people called...until I realized that all my children want when I'm on the phone is to grab it from me and play with it. I used to judge people who, in the middle of a phone conversation with me, would stop and say something to their kid...now I'm guilty of that all the time. I used to judge other moms for lots of things...but, now that I'm a mom, all I can say is SOMETIMES, YOU HAVE TO DO WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO TO SURVIVE, SO DON'T JUDGE IT UNTIL YOU'VE LIVED IT!

LESSON 3: YOU CAN DO IT...BUT YOU CAN'T DO IT ALL
You have no idea how many people ask me how I manage to have twins, have a career, write a blog, knit, read and have time for family and friends.  It's very simple...you deal with whatever life gives you. Plus, I never had a single baby. This is all I've known, so, to me, this is normal! But, I also learned a very valuable lesson in having children. When I was pregnant, I was adamant that I didn't want a baby nurse, nanny or other help when the babies came home from the hospital. I thought, "They're my children, it's my responsibility to get up with them during the night and to take care of them during the day--I don't need or want help." I quickly learned that I needed help. Thank goodness for my family--who all live nearby and pitched in a hand, and thank goodness for good childcare. (Also thank goodness for the fact that my kids are getting older and it's easier to watch them on my own now!) Don't be too hard on yourself--YOU MIGHT BE A SUPER MOM, BUT YOU'RE NOT SUPERWOMAN...AND THAT'S OKAY.

LESSON 4: IT'S DIFFERENT WHEN IT'S YOURS
Before I had kids, I used to watch my friends with kids and think, "I really want this?!" (With fear!) I especially thought that when I was pregnant, and that really scared me...because there was no turning back at that point. I had no idea how I was going to handle the fact that I would have no free time. I had no idea how I was going to handle sleepless nights. I had no idea how I was going to give up sleeping late on weekends. I had no idea how I was going to handle having to selflessly give up all of me to someone else (or two someones!). I especially had no idea how I was going to handle poop, (I would gag when my friends would change their kids' diapers around me or if I had to change my friends' kids poop.) or spit-up (vomit typically makes me want to vomit). The minute I got my babies home, I learned that when it's your kid, you don't mind giving up your free time--because they are your favorite hobby, pastime, activity and entertainment all in one. When it's your kid, poop, pee and spit-up don't bother you because, well, it's your kid. One of the most important things I've learned this past year? YOUR CHILDREN WILL CHANGE EVERYTHING ...AND YOU WON'T MIND.

LESSON 5: EMBRACE THE LITTLE THINGS
(And the little people!) I can remember the first night my husband and I spent alone with our twins...we slept downstairs on the couches with them in their bouncy seats front of us, because we were so nervous! My son didn't want to sleep unless he was sleeping on me. If I got 1 hour of sleep that night, I got a lot. It was one of my worst nights as a parent. It was also one of my best. I know...that doesn't make sense. But, I got to snuggle him all night. He slept on me--which he used to do all the time. Even as I was going through those sleepless nights and the constant holding of my kids, as exhausted as I was, I knew I'd miss those moments one day. I was right. My kids are in perpetual motion these days. I don't get many sleepy snuggles anymore and I don't get much time where they just sit on my lap and love me. (Plus, if one is on my lap, the other gets jealous and tries to crawl on top of me (and his/her sibling) too.) As much as I relish the fact that my children sleep through the night (don't hate me!) and I'm no longer a mom-bie, I really miss the constant snuggling of the first few months. REMEMBER TO APPRECIATE EVERY STAGE--THE GOOD, BAD AND UGLY--BECAUSE YOU WILL MISS IT!

LESSON 6: YOU'RE STILL YOU...ISH:
Before we had kids, my husband and I swore that we wouldn't become those parents who stopped doing the things we loved. He swore he'd still golf, I swore I'd still get my manicures and pedicures. We promised that we'd still see our friends and we'd still go out and do things. I can assure you, most of that didn't happen. I can't remember the last time he golfed (yes, I know it's winter!), I still get my manicures--but only because my manicurist makes house calls. However, most of the time I'm well overdue for a pedicure or waxing...and, while I probably could find the time, in my free time, I just want to be with my babies. I miss them all day at work, and when I get home, I just want to snuggle them and play with them. I can literally count how many times I've gone out with friends without my kids since they were born (the answer is six, in case you were wondering), and it's not for lack of desire, it's simply for lack of time (and, quite frankly, energy). However, even though I don't have the time that I used to or keep up with my activities like I used to, I don't feel like a different person. It's funny...I always thought that as soon as you had your baby, it was like a switch that flipped and all of a sudden you felt like a different person, like a "mom," however that was supposed to feel. But, after having my kids, I still felt like me...just me with a lot more responsibility. Those who love you will understand that YOU'RE STILL GOING TO BE YOU, JUST A DIFFERENT VERSION OF YOU.

This first year was so fun--even with all of its ups and downs. I wouldn't trade one moment of it. I can only anticipate what this next year will bring. Even through the challenges that lay ahead, I will work on remembering my six little lessons while I smother my two little munchkins with love.

Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Email us at theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com

Our Top Ten Picks for the New Year!

What better way to get back into blogging than to share our best finds for 2014? Since looking fabulous on a budget has always been important to us, we have scoured the internet to find our ten favorite picks under $25, $50 and $75.

If you click on the individual Polaroids next to the item descriptions, you will be brought right to the webpage for that product. We hope our picks have inspired you to add something fabulous to your wardrobe for 2014...heck, at these prices, you can afford to add a few new fabulous items to your wardrobe!

We hope you enjoy our picks as much as we do.

Happy shopping!

UNDER $25:

1) These skinny corduroys from Old Navy are just screaming my name. First off, I love that they come in a variety of bold colors. I always find a great way to beat the winter blues is to wear clothes with color. (In case you forgot about my love of brightly colored tights, you can check out these oldies but goodies here: How to Wear Tights and What I'm Obsessed With Now: Tights) I'm particularly fond of the dark teal color, but I wouldn't say no to any of these cords...especially at only $18, you can purchase every color and still not feel guilty!

2) Normally, these dangly earrings would SO not be my style. But, as of late, I have been getting into bold, fashionable earrings. Even still, I tend to shy away from the majorly huge. However, when browsing the Nordstrom site, these caught my attention and just didn't let go. Not only are they in style, but there's something about them that makes them an instant classic--maybe it's the gold "fringe" at the bottom, maybe it's the titanium color of the metal, maybe it's the scrollwork in the majority of the earring. Who knows. Whatever it is, they're fabulous. And I love them...which is good, because at $22, these are an easy, affordable addition to my ever growing jewelry collection.

3) This sweater from Macy's is one of my absolute favorites. Yes, it does grace my wardrobe. I own it in black and white (even though it does come in several other fabulous colors!). I love that it is long enough that it doesn't hit at that awkward length, I love that it is thick and warm, I love that the inside perfectly mirrors the pattern on the outside (black on white)--almost as if the sweater is reversible (it isn't), but mostly, I love the pattern. I bought it in the black and white because I felt that the pattern would go with just about anything, and you know how I love my bold colors...which makes it easy to pair this sweater with my bold finds! It's a wardrobe staple for me, and at $23.99, it can be a budget friendly wardrobe staple for you, too! 

UNDER $50:

4) When I first saw this necklace, I knew I had to have it. At that point, it was only available in the mint, but that was part of what made me love it. Mint is so trendy now, and I love that even though it's a pop of color, it's really a neutral, too. Mint goes with black, brown, grey, navy, white, blue, yellow, pink...I could go on and on (but I won't)! Then, BaubleBar came out with this necklace in a wide variety of colors. (In fact, Lauren owns the cobalt!) I not only love the color of this necklace, I love the style. It looks like several different beaded necklaces of varying sizes in one. It is my go-to necklace. At $36, you can add one of the many colors to your wardrobe, too!

5) I'll admit it. I'm late to the scarf game. I know that Lauren posted about her obsession of scarves (read that here: Lauren's Scarf Obsession) in November of 2010. To be honest, I've always admired those that could wear them, I just couldn't figure out how to add them to my outfits. Well, one day this fall, I pulled out my one (yes, one!) scarf and put it on. I was in love. I am now obsessed. When I saw this scarf at the Gap, I knew I had to had it (yup, I ordered it!). It not only looks warm and soft, but I also love the colorblock, the stripes and the pop of yellow. (It does come in other colors if yellow is not your thing!) As I've said many times before, nothing perks me up on a gloomy, blustery winter day than a bright splash of color in my outfit. This yellow does the trick...and at $29.95, it not only brightens my wardrobe, it brightens my day!

6) I am obsessed with stripes. If you saw my closet, you'd think that I shop at a prison warehouse. I  love rugby stripes. I especially love rugby stripes in navy blue and white (but, it does also come in olive). Therefore, I especially love this dress. I have something similar that I bought from J.Crew over the summer, but it certainly wasn't a steal like this Old Navy dress. It also doesn't have the little pop of color at the bottom. It can be worn for a casual day out with tall boots or flats, it can be worn to work, and it can be worn for date night. At $29.94, how can you pass up this amazing wardrobe staple?

7) There are so many things I love about these flats--the color (as I said, mint is in!), the hint of sparkle and the scalloped edging. These traits make these flats stand out from the crowd...and will make you stand out from the crowd as well. They're extremely versatile--wear them for a casual outing with friends when paired with leggings or skinny jeans and an oversized sweater, wear them for work with trouser pants or a pencil skirt, wear them for date night with a little dress, or wear them to a spring or summer wedding with a cute knee-length A-line dress. The best part? You can find them at Macy's for only $39.95. If mint isn't your thing, you can also find them in ivory or silver.

UNDER $75:

8) I have been looking for the perfect shirtdress for years. I love the style, but I haven't found one that I loved enough to purchase...until this one. Not only is the price right at $59.99, this beauty from Banana Republic is simply adorable. I love the navy with the bright pink piping--I love navy and bright pink together. (If navy and pink aren't your thing, it also comes in olive green with navy piping.) I love the fact that it hits above the knee--making it a year-round wardrobe addition--great with tights and boots in the winter, with ballet flats in the spring, sandals in the summer and booties in the fall. I also love that it's tailored--it doesn't look like you stole something out of your husband's, father's or brother's closet and threw it on. And, the icing on the cake? The adorable gold buttons. All in all, a great, budget friendly find.

9) I love a big bag. Especially now that I'm a mom and I often find baby snacks and other baby related things in my bag. I also like to carry everything in the world in my bag...I never like to be caught unprepared. But, my bag needs to be more than simply utilitarian--it needs to be beautiful & unique. This bag from Francesca's Collection most certainly fits the bill! I love the navy fabric with the gold chain edging. I love that the handles have gold thread wrapped around them. I love that it comes with an optional strap--which means I can carry it and my kids. I love that it's roomy on the interior, complete with several pockets. Mostly, though, I love that it's a budget friendly $54, but looks way more expensive than that!

10) Orange. Suede. Loafers. Need I say more? Oh wait, budget friendly orange suede loafers...now, do I need to say more? I saw these at the Gap and fell absolutely in love. So in love that I've ordered them to add to my extensive shoe collection. First off, a good loafer never goes out of style. Secondly, as I keep saying, a pop of bright color instantly lightens my mood. And, third, They're great for fall, winter or spring. Plus, they're orange. How fun is that? If orange isn't your thing, they do come in three other colors. At $59.95, it's not even a splurge to buy these fabulous shoes!

UNDER $25:

1) I think it's been said over and over on this blog that our love of BaubleBar knows no boundaries. This dainty bracelet is no exception. It is the perfect addition to your arm candy and for $22, you coud buy it in silver, gold and rose gold without going over budget on your monthly accessories purchases! (Am I the only one who budgets herself for accessories? Probably not, if you are reading this blog!) The bracelet has some sparkle to boot, and, of course, I would rock it in rose gold. Oh, how I love rose gold!

2) In the winter, I love wearing dresses with tights and tall boots. I find that this combination keeps me warmer than wearing pants in the bitter cold that has currently descended upon the northeast! This sweater dress from Target is a perfect addition to your winer wardrobe, and the color is neutral so you can add any colored tights, accessories or a scarf to help you stand out in the cold weather. It's on sale right now at Target, for $24.98, so go run out and get it...well, finish reading my list, then run out and get it!




UNDER $50:

3) I've seen a bunch of jeweled collared blouses this season, and it's one trend I'm really digging! This blouse would be great under a blazer, cardigan or sweater. Whenever I'm shopping, I strive to find pieces that would be appropriate for both work and play. This top would be great for both. It's currently on sale at the Limited for $34.99, which means you can get plenty of use out of it for not a lot of money. That's always a win in my fashion book!

4) It's been established on this blog many times that I love all things sparkly and all things versatile. Heck, just look at this Top 10 list! My list is teeming with items that can fit into those two categories. This sweatshirt is on sale right now for $30, at Old Navy, and would be great for work and weekends. You could pair this top with skinny pants or a pencil skirt. Really, it can go with any outfit that needs that pop of sparkle to get you through the day.

5) Over the last couple of years, Francesca's Collection has become one of my first stops when I'm looking for a new purse or accessory. I know it's a chain store, but I love the boutique feeling you get the minute you walk in the door. I have this crossbody bag in aquamarine--but, it does come in a variety of colors to suit a variety of tastes! This bag was a birthday present from a good friend, and I love it. Now, I love me a big tote bag. I've definitely showed that love here on TAL. However, recently, I've been breaking out a small crossbody bag on weekends. This practice has been saving my shoulders and increasing the bags I utilize during a month! It's a win, win. This crossbody is $34 at Francesca's, so if you need a new bag for play, go get it. You will be happy to add this to your own collection.

6) Ankle boots are all over the place this season and these will be a great addition to your closet without breaking your budget! I have a friend who owns these and according to her, these boots are not chunky and are great when worn with a tights and dress. (BTW, I totally trust her opinion on all things fashion and makeup!) So, don't let the snow on the ground bum you out. Run to Target, get these boots for $34.99, and then rock them all winter long!





7) I love sequins. I do. And, I'm not ashamed to admit it. I also love a pencil skirt. I find it flattering on my body type. Thankfully, this skirt combines both of these loves. I know I would get a lot of use out of this skirt. I'd wear it to work (I know...what?! Maybe not court, but definitely to the office!), out on a date, or on a night out with friends. Heck, I'd wear it around the house, it's just so pretty! I know i would get plenty of use out of it, especially at the great price of $39.99. You can find this amazing piece at 6pm.com.

8) Full disclosure, I own this blazer. I bought it a few months ago and now I rock this blazer for court, drinks with friends...pretty much anytime I can pull it out of my closet. The blazer's price of $34.99 was definitely one of the reasons I loved it in the store. Don't let the leather sleeves throw you off--this blazer is incredibly versatile. I'm a big fan of owning separates; I find I get more use out of the clothes in my closet by changing up different combinations of blazers/skirts/dresses. It also lets my creativity flow when getting dressed in the morning which, to be honest, definitely helps me get out of bed when it's freezing out! Hopefully this blazer will inspire you to make some fabulous outfits, too. Go out to Target and get yours!

UNDER $75:

9) Jeans are a go-to staple for my weekend uniform. These jeans will, no doubt, be a perfect addition to my closet! I know they will go great with a longer sweater or silk top for running around during the day and then switching gears to a night out by adding a favorite pair of heels. I'm also a fan of any jean that has some spandex in there. There, I said it! As a woman, I like pants that have a little spandex in them!!! These amazing jeans can be fond at Ann Taylor Loft for a budget friendly $69.50.

10) I know, I've already raved about the Naked Palate from Urban Decay. I own it and use it on a daily basis. But, my earlier love for the first palate only fuels the excitement I have over Urban Decay's newest palate! Once Urban Decay announced what colors would be in this palate, I am not going to lie, my first thought was, "I need it, I want it, I must own it!" The colors are so versatile and perfect for everyday use. I know...you're thinking, "$52 for eyeshadow?!," but, this palate from Sephora will last you a long time and will only enhance your daily makeup regimen.

Enjoy these fabulous budget friendly finds!

Love,

Remember Us? We're Back!

We know; it's been a while. We drew you in, made you fall in love with us and then just went away--no phone calls, emails or texts to explain our absence. We're so sorry. All we can say is that life...it got away from us. And the blog, it, unfortunately, took a back seat. It's not a great excuse, but, well, it's the truth. Nevertheless, we missed this blog. Hopefully you missed us and haven't forgotten about us!

Stacy at 8 months pregnant

It's been a year and a half since we last wrote. In that year and a half, a lot has changed. The last post we wrote was on June 1, 2012...three days after that, Stacy found out she was pregnant...with twins.

Lauren's law offices

 Over that summer, Lauren launched a new business--opening her own law firm and expanding her practice as a legal guardian.

Lauren & Stacy two weeks
before the twins were born

Stacy's twins were born 7 weeks early and had to spend the first 4 weeks of their lives in the NICU, but are now happy, healthy and feisty 1 year olds!

The cupcakes Lauren &
Stacy made for the twins'
first birthday party.

We both lost pets...

Lauren lost her precious dog, Poko,

and Stacy lost her sweet cat, Trickle.

Trickle

And both of us have been busy living and building our lives.

Lauren & Stacy at the
twins' first birthday party

But, over the past year and a half, we have repeatedly talked about restarting the blog. With the onset of 2014, we decided the time was right. The name of the blog may remain the same, but the focus is changing. We are revamping ourselves. Don't fret! We will still talk about fashion, accessories, and our favorite products out there. But, this blog is going to be so much more. We are going to focus on all aspects of our lives--work, home, friendships, cooking & baking, party planning, organization, what makes us smile, what we want to change in the world, and, of course, fashion.

As The Accessorized Life moves into 2014, and we start over again, we ask that you, our wonderful readers, become an integral part of our blogging process. Send us suggestions, comments, questions and all the love you have to give. In return, we promise not to disappear this time. We are so excited for our new ideas and the posts to come!

Happy 2014!

Love,

Reader Challenge -- May Winner & June Challenge

We're going on 6 months of Reader Challenges! If you haven't gotten in on the fun yet...you're totally missing out!

Our May winner is:

Elizabeth W!

Elizabeth's suggestion was: "If you're scared of fashion but want to look fashionable, what's the first step to planning a wardrobe?"

Elizabeth, we are SO excited to help you with this post. After all...we are fashionistas on a budget--so what better way to prove our fashion sense then to help you build your wardrobe while on a budget?

The rest of you...keep your eyes peeled for this post!

With the announcement of our May winner, our June challenge has begun! To get in on the action and enter the contest, simply send an email to theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com with ideas for blog posts you'd like to see on The Accessorized Life. Make sure to include a brief description of your post so that we're sure to capture your vision!

If you would like to enter, please send us an email in the following format:

Name:

Email address:

Mailing address:

Idea:

All submissions received before June 30 will be considered for the June contest. The winner of the June contest will be announced in the first week of July. The winning post will also appear in July.

Remember, there's a fabulous prize for each month's winner! The April prize was:

Summer C., we hope you love them! Send us a picture of you wearing them!

We look forward to receiving your June submissions. Good luck!

Springing Out in Style -- the April Reader Challenge Post!

So, our question this month, as posed by Summer C., was "What's the best way to look cute but still keep warm on chilly spring nights?"

Well, I've done a lot of thinking and a lot of staring at my closet, and this is what I've come up with...

There are four good, stylish ways to keep warm (that don't include snuggling up with another person!):
1) Jean Jacket
2) Blazer
3) Cardigan
4) Wrap

Each of these items serves a different purpose when it comes to keeping your outfit sizzling and your body warm!

Jean Jacket:

Old Navy Denim Jacket $39.94

 Jean jackets are perfect for layering over a casual nighttime outfit--such as a sundress, a baggy shirt and leggings or colored skinny jeans and a sparkly top. In fact, the jean jacket is my go-to-keep-warm-when-I-go-out-in-the-spring piece of apparel.

However, there is one hard and fast rule when it comes to a jean jacket. NEVER, EVER, EVER, NEVER, NEVER, EVER, EVER, NEVER (did I say never?) wear a blue denim jacket with blue jeans. You will look like you are wearing a jean suit and, well, no one looks good in a jean suit.

American Eagle Outfitters White Denim Jacket $49.50

There is one exception to the denim and denim rule...and that is if you can find a denim jacket in white or in a bright color. (Personally, I'm partial to white.)

This also looks great with a casual outfit, like the ones mentioned above, and it looks especially spectacular with dark blue skinny jeans or your favorite pair of well-worn boot-cut jeans!







Blazer:

Gap Blazer $69.95

Nothing says sophistication and fashion savvy like a tailored blazer--but this look walks a fine line between sassy and out to take on the town and getting ready to go to another office meeting. The best way to wear a blazer is with a pair of jeans and ballet flats or a pair of leggings and an oversized button down shirt.

H&M Blazer $49.95

Just be sure to keep the outfit underneath casual, and you won't look like you stepped out of the office and onto the dance floor without remembering to get changed first!







Cardigan:


The cardigan is an easy go-to staple for a night out on the town. It's foldable enough to throw in your purse, warm enough to keep you cozy and versatile enough to go with nearly every outfit. There are several different types of cardigans--each one suited for a different outfit!

J.Crew Cardigan $62.00

A simple fitted cardigan is the most versatile. It goes with just about anything. It looks great with a casual jeans and t-shirt outfit, a little bit nicer outfit--such as a fitted top and dressier pants underneath, a chill weekend outfit--such as a sundress or summer skirt, a festive, party outfit--such as a sparkly top and pencil skirt, or even a formal dress--provided you take the cardigan off for pictures!

Banana Republic Cardigan  $89.50

There's the long cardigan--these can be button-up, tie front or open. These are great for casual outfits. They look best with skinny jeans and a casual top. However, you can wear it with a little bit nicer outfit, provided the cardigan has some shape to it or has some embellishment and isn't just a loose, hangy garment. Avoid wearing this with dresses, as you will end up looking like you don't know how to dress yourself and simply threw on whatever you could find in your closet!

Express Cardigan $49.90

Lastly, there's the cropped cardigan, also known as the bolero. This is perfect with dresses--especially strapless dresses. It looks adorable when worn to a beach party, a wedding or a nice dinner out with friends. It also looks fabulous with a fitted top and leggings or skinny jeans. However, this cardigan is not for everyone--if you're chesty, this will accentuate your bustline. Make sure you try it on (and are honest with yourself) before you wear it!





Wrap:

Macy's Sequin Wrap $24.98

I personally believe that the wrap is good for one thing and one thing only--fancy attire. The wrap looks excellent with a formal dress as it covers your shoulders and arms--keeping you warm--but, it doesn't take away from your dress. It's also easy to put on and remove, therefore not ruining your hair or wrinkling your dress.

Can you wear it with jeans and a simple top? Probably. However, it's going to be more trouble than it's worth--the wrap isn't functional for a fun night out on the town! How can you eat, drink and be merry with friends when you're holding onto your wrap?

Hope these tips helped you to figure out how to stay warm as you go out on the town! Any questions? Any suggestions? Want to enter our next month's contest and be our next proud winner? Contact us at theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!!!

Notice anything different?

Go on...take another look...

Yup, our blog looks super awesome.

Notice anything else?

Wondering where "Budget Bradshaw" and "Accessory Princess (Working My Way to Queen)" have gone?

Never fear...we're still here. We've just decided that it's time to drop the pseudonyms and use our real names. So, let us introduce ourselves. Accessory Princess is Lauren and Budget Bradshaw is Stacy.

Look for other new things coming your way in the next few months...we have some great ideas simmering!!

In the meantime, enjoy the new layout. We hope you like the new look...we know we LOVE it!

Want to share your feedback? We'd love to hear it! 

theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com

Book of the Month

This month, I'm bringing out an old favorite...Coming of Age in Mississippi, by Anne Moody. This book is an autobiography, which chronicles Moody's life from the time she's a child in Mississippi in the 1940s until the peak of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. (I know...the past two books kind of seem to have a theme here...but I guess I just really enjoy reading about the Civil Rights Movement!)

This book is one that I have read several times--the first time I read Coming of Age in Mississippi was when I was student teaching in the spring of 2003 (which is when I fell in love with this book)--and each time I read it, I fall in love with it all over again. When I first picked it up, I thought it wouldn't interest me--even though I am a lover of history and a history teacher, I hate to read non-fiction books. I much prefer fiction (especially well-written historical fiction!) than I do non-fiction.

However, from the first sentence, Coming of Age in Mississippi gripped my interest and, even though I have finished this book several times, it hasn't let go. Moody writes in such a way that you feel as if you are living her experiences with her--and you only want to know more, and more, and more. Her writing reads like an extremely well-written novel, and you have to continue to remind yourself time and again that the book isn't fiction. The experiences she lived through will truly amaze you--you watch her grow from a blissfully ignorant child into a resentful teen and, ultimately, a heroic adult.

Some of my favorite stories include (and I don't want to give too much away...) her run-in with her white neighbors at the movies when she was a child, the first time she realized that people hated her simply because she was black, her multiple attempts at sit-ins and her rising through the ranks in the Civil Rights Movement. Each story is better than the last--and there is not one page of the book where you feel as if you are bored or as if the story being told is superfluous and simply filler to make the book longer.

I chose this book this month because last week I was teaching my students about the Civil Rights movement and as an in-class activity, the students were assigned specific sections of Coming of Age in Mississippi to read and compare. Anne Moody's life gives the reader such a thorough portrayal of all of the phases of the Civil Rights Movement that the book makes for a great educational tool. When my students were discussing the book, it reminded me of what an amazing read it is, and made me realize how much I want to share it.

If it sounds like I'm gushing about Coming of Age in Mississippi, well, it's because I am! There are truly not enough wonderful things I can say about this book. Therefore, I strongly urge you to check it out. I assure you, you will love it as much as I do!

(If you click anywhere it says Coming of Age in Mississippi you will be taken right to the book on amazon.com.)

Have any great book recommendations to share? Did you read Coming of Age in Mississippi and want to share your thoughts with us? Email us at theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com!

My Favorite New Trend: Eyelet & Lace

As I shop this spring (please...like you think I'd pass up a shopping trip!) I am noticing a new trend that I'm loving...

All over the stores, I'm seeing pieces in eyelet and lace. And I love them. These fabrics are so feminine and they make me feel so gorgeous that I can't help but to want to snag them all! (In fact, I have been coveting a white eyelet vintage style dress at Banana Republic for about 2 months now, but it has been sold out in all the stores. This past weekend, I found one (literally, the only one in the store)--and it happened to be in my size...AND ON SALE!! Here's a link if you want to check it out: My Dress! -- it's not on sale online, though.) I also have a few great eyelet pieces in my wardrobe that I found before the trend was big...and I'm so glad to have kept them (like a white skirt with lace patches and a white eyelet jacket). One of the best things about the trend this time around is that the eyelet and lace pieces aren't only white...they come in a wide range of colors.

Eyelet also reminds me of my younger days--I remember an awesome eyelet skirt I had when I was about 12 years old and a white eyelet Ralph Lauren dress that I bought when I was in my 20s and living in New York City...both pieces I loved to death!

I am so excited to see this trend back in the stores, that I have scoured the internet to find you some of the best pieces out there.

Enjoy!

Links to the products:

Row 1:

Forever 21 Eyelet Shorts--$19.80, Joe Fresh Eyelet Dress--$39, Aqua Girls Eyelet Blazer--$72, Victoria's Secret Lace Cover Up--$68

Row 2:

Mango Lace Blouse--$54.99, Loft Eyelet Skirt--$69.50 (also featured in our Top 10 for Spring!), Gap Eyelet Cami--$44.99

Row 3:
H&M Eyelet Skirt--$49.95, Banana Republic Lace Shell--$45, J.Crew Eyelet Top--$68

Happy shopping! Let us know if you find any great finds out there: theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com

Reader Challenge -- April Winner & May Challenge!

Jealous that you haven't won yet? Well, you should be...especially if you are not our April Winner:

Summer C.!!!

Summer's suggestion was: "With spring arriving, everyone wants to look cute going out at night, but the nights can still get a bit chilly. What is the best way to still stay cute but keep warm at night?"




Thanks Summer for your fabulous suggestion! Keep your eyes peeled for a great prize! 


The rest of you...keep your eyes peeled for this post!

And, with the announcement of our April winner, the May Reader Challenge has begun! In order to enter the contest, simply email us at theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com with ideas for blog posts you'd like to see on The Accessorized Life. Make sure to include a brief description of your idea so that we're sure to caption your vision!


If you would like to enter, please send us an email in the following format:

Name:
E-mail address:
Mailing Address:
Idea:

All submissions received before May 31st will be considered for our May contest. The winner of the May contest will be announced in the first week of May. The winning post will also appear in May.

Remember...there is a fabulous prize for each month's winner! March's prize was:

Kelli S., we hope you love it! We'd love to see a picture of you enjoying it.

We look forward to receiving your May submissions. Good luck!

theaccessorizedlife@gmail.com