December 31, 2012

Outfit Sneak Peek: New Years Eve


Dress: Jill Stuart
Shoes: Shoemint

Thought I'd share a sneak peek into what I will be wearing this New Years Eve with you all. The dress was actually a Christmas present from my parents. My mom and I were in a store called Fox's, which is a lot like Loehmann's, when I came across this Jill Stuart dress. It screamed my name...plus it was the only one in my size left. What I love most about this dress besides the sheer metallic mesh top is that it has pockets! Of course, the main reason I bought the Shoemint shoes was for NYE. Perfect little metallic heels, even though I doubt I will be wearing all night since we will be at a friend's apartment having our Holiday dinner and a NYE party. Which is a lot tamer then years past but I'm looking forward to a more relaxed inmate affair.

I hope you all have a HAPPY and SAFE NEW YEARS EVE!

What do you have planned for New Years Eve?

December 27, 2012

A Look Back at 2012


I can't believe 2012 is pretty much over....this year literally flew by. Honestly, I just can't wrap my head around it all. I feel so blessed this year in my personal life and in my blogger life.Work in 2012 was a roller coaster for me and still continues to be...but seriously outside of that this year has been the most memorable year of my life. And maybe because it has to do with the fact that man that I love asked me to be his wife. Also the fact that I got to travel to two BEAUTIFUL locations, Punta Cana and Hawaii. I got to attend both Fall 2012 and Spring 2013 New York Fashion Week. I met and really got to know some other amazing bloggers whose continuing support helps me carry on. I've also had some amazing opportunities like hosting a small event with Bombom Jewelry...and now I'm even a blogger with them. O how could I forget...I was in Marie Claire! And also featured on Style.it and Daily Candy. I'm so excited for what 2013 may bring, even though I know of some upcoming ventures. To say that I feel so lucky to be where I am today would be an understand statement. I know that I put all of my heart and soul into this blog but never thought when I started this it would lead me into a whole other world. I am truly thank you for you all leaving me wonderful comments and reading my blog. You are all the reasons why I keep on going even when I feel weighed down. I hope 2012 was good to you all and I hope 2013 brings you the best of everything. May your New Years be happy and bright. 

Love,
Heather


December 25, 2012

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas


I hope where ever you are you are surrounded by loved ones on this Holiday.

Have a  Merry Christmas.

Love,
Heather

December 21, 2012

Travel Style: Chic and Comfortable

Travel Style

When it comes to traveling I always lean towards the more comfortable and chic look. I mean really who wants to be on a plane or a train-- or whatever you maybe traveling in-- sitting uncomfortably for a long period of time. I never really had to deal with Holiday traveling until I started dating my fiance, he's from PA while most of my family is in NY, so over the time I have learned about travel dressing and packing. I have skipped the heavy shoulder bags for my favorite bigger tote bags (at least for the weekend stays). For me these are easier to carry (especially on the subway) and easier not to over pack (I'm a notorious over packer).We usually travel during the week day so work appropriate comfortableness plays a big roll. Your basic long sleeve top and jeans with your favorite booties is the perfect travel look that can take you through your work day, if your office is cool with the casual "Friday" cool. A small handbag is handy so that you can easily access your wallet, cellphone and any other small goodies. Also helpful to have a small bag during the work day just in-case you need to go out during lunch. Why get all dressed up while traveling? Some may stick to their sweats but you never know who you'll meet. Every time I think about my travel clothes I always think would someone believe or would want to work with me if I told them I was a fashion blogger? Because honestly...you never know who you might run into.

Jacket: Elie Tahari
Shirt: H&M
Jeans: American Eagle
Shoes: Shoemint
Necklace: Inpink
Bag: c/o Rebecca Minkoff
Tote: Kenneth Cole (freebie at the Independent Handbag Awards)
Yes, I pretty much live in my H&M shirt. It's my go to shirt for my relaxed days. It goes with everything...plus it's fun to mix prints with accessories like a printed scarf, which adds some fun and chicness to the over all look. I also can't get enough of my new Shoemint boots (I finally discovered the greatness that is Shoemint) and my new necklace from Inpink. You can never go wrong with a layered necklace for a little bit of glitter.

What do you wear during your travels?

December 17, 2012

Dreaming of Resort Wear with SwimSpot


O how I dream of warmer places, especially as the weather here in NYC drops. I'm jealous of everyone about to take their vacations in warm climate destinations,  I mean we are on the brink of Resort season. So here we are at the start of winter and what do I get in the mail-- a swim suit courtesy of SwimSpot. Such a tease. Especially with the fact that I won't be going away anytime soon, saving up for a honeymoon...wedding and all. But gosh do I love this Splendid swim suit. The bikini top has my all time favorite neckline, the sweetheart neckline, and the cutesy flower print make the swimsuit super adorable. Instead I will pretend as if I'm going away and sit in my hot apartment pretending I'm down in the Caribbeans drinking pina coladas...show you what I would wear with my Splendid Farmer's Market Bikini.

Dress: Roxy, Swimsuit: Splendid c/o SwimSpot, Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs, 
Hat: c/o Ann Taylor, Sunglasses: Karen Walker

Beach Wear:
Beach wear...pool wear...wherever you go to lounge on your vacation it should be the simplest and easiest look of all. This is the one time where wearing less (literally) is best. And the easiest clothing you can take on and off is appropriate A simple tunic or sundress is always my go to beach wear.

Shirt: Zara, Jeans: DIY Tie-Dye, Swimsuit: Splendid c/o SwimSpot, Bag: c/o Lodinatt
Flip Flips: Old Navy, Sunglasses: Karen Walker

About Town:
When strolling about a beach town I love going for the basics like cut off shorts, tank tops, and flip flops. If you're in a beachy place like Miami a bathing suit under every outfit is a must. You never know when you'll end up on the beach...but you can consider that pretty much a done deal.

Shirt: Tommy Hilfger, Shorts: DIY cut-offs, Swimsuit: Splendid c/o SwimSpot, Bag: c/o Lodinatt
Sunglasses: Raybans, Sneakers: Puma

Adventures:
If you're the adventurous type you know that a pair of sneakers on a vacation is a must. I know that when my fiancee and I were in Hawaii we were roaming about different trails on the searching for waterfalls; so sneakers, a tote bag that carried everything from water to lotion (plus room for flip flops), and clothing that allowed me to breathe was essential. A swimsuit underneath is needed so that taking your shirt off won't be deemed inappropriate.

What do you wear on your vacations?

December 13, 2012

Holiday Gifts on a Budget: DIY Hot Chocolate Gift Set


Tis the season...of being broke...of gift giving. Being on a budget while it's the Holiday season might not be the easiest on the wallet, so this season while trying to save for a wedding I decided to go more of the DIY approach for a few of my friends and co-workers. I got this simple little DIY idea after seeing kits in-stores like K-Mart, Rite Aid, etc. so I decided why not make it more personal and do it from "scratch." It's simple, cheap, and creative.

What you need:

- Ghirardelli Chocolate Premium Hot Cocoa Mix, Double Chocolate, 16-Ounce Tins (Pack of 4)
Ball Canning Regular Mouth Half Pint Canning Jar 8 oz. 12-Count 
Martha Stewart Crafts Wonderland Paper Tape
- Mini Marshmellows
- 12 Pack of Candy Canes
- Ribbon
- Spoon...for scooping hot chocolate into the jar
(you can buy most if not all of these off of Amazon)

Steps:
1. Clean your jars before getting started.


2. Once your have your jars cleaned out you can start scooping your hot chocolate mix into a jar. I used my tablespoon measuring spoons since its like a small cup and make it a little easier and less messy. Make sure to leave enough room to add the tiny marshmallows.



3. When you fill your jars to the right amount add the mini marshmallows. Then seal your jars tightly.

4. My favorite part! Time to decorate the jars! Using the ribbon tape decorate the top of the jars.


5. Take your ribbon and tie it around the mid-section of the jar. Then take a candy cane and tie the candy cane making a bow out of the ribbon.


HELPFUL TIP:
Here's a little cheat tip-- take tape and tape down the candy cane over the knot of the ribbon. This will keep the candy cane in place AND will help it from pulling down the ribbon.


6. TIME TO GIFT IT!


What do you think of this little DIY holiday present?

December 10, 2012

Inspirational Monday: Knit Season



Knit Season



J.Crew j crew sweater / Marc by Marc Jacobs boatneck shirt, $375 / Pull&Bear jersey top, $29 / Acne cable sweater / H&M cable sweater, $24

There is nothing like the perfect cozy knit sweater to relax in. I have been hunting the right knit sweater for a long time now. I went to the J.Crew sample and scoured through racks and racks of clothing looking for the "mr. right." When I was just about to give up I came across this knit turtle neck sweater. Chunky and cozy and only $35. I knew I had to grab it then.

Sweater: J.Crew
Jeans: BDG c/o Urban Outfitters
Socks: Urban Outfitters

Do you have a go to cozy sweater?

December 6, 2012

Holiday Dressing: From Day to Night


Holiday Party Dressing: Casual/Dinner Party



J.Crew knit shirt / H&M striped top, $13 / Mango tailored blazer, $88 / Dice Kayek panel skirt, $650 (more affordable options: Forever21, ASOS, Nasty Gal) /
Rebecca Minkoff silver handbag


Here we are at the peak of the Holiday Party season. There are so many parties to attend and so so so little time. Each party has its own feel to it, you have your casual party, fun party, and formal party. With each of these party it has its own outfit and theres nothing like the stress of feeling over or under dress. My whole take on it is I rather be over dressed then under. With that said what happens when a party falls during the work week? I know I don't like bring clothing and having to get dressed in the office, I prefer to wear what I need to go from day to night, if I can get away with it.

For a casual party that you still need to dress up for, play with fun pops of accessories. To be honest I'm head over heels in love with the Dice Kayek skirt (shown above) from the color to the bow. It has Holiday Party written all over it. There is nothing more in the Holiday season then champagne color and a bowed accessory. Even for a day time look, do play with this combo. Stores like Forever21 have a more understated and affordable bow dress (here). A bow champagne skirt can look very dressy especially for the day so play with work appropriate clothing to pair it with. Stick with the basics....then layer these basics. Pop of color with a sweater with a printed top underneath can give it another bit of flare. Top it off with a cropped blazer that will dress it up without being too much. Keep accessories simple, metallic heel like the Shoemint Joanna shoe and a simple bodycross or clutch bag.

What made me think of something like this? Well I've been wanting to pull off the navy and pink combo myself. Plus I've had this H&M bowed skirt in my closet for years and I love to pull it out especially around this time of year. For me the color and bow is just so perfect.

Shirt: J.Crew (sample sale)

Undershirt: H&M
Skirt: H&M (old)

Blazer: H&M (old)

Bag: c/o Rebecca Minkoff
Shoes: Isabel Toledo for Payless

Necklace: c/o bombom Jewelry

pictures taken by Brian Cavanaugh


Really this look can be taken to a simple dinner party or any event that doesn't require a full length dress. It's simple and classic.

December 3, 2012

Inspirational Monday: Winter Brights

Winter Brights

Winter Brights by fashionistany featuring an envelope clutch

If you have been reading my blog, following me on instagram, or any social site that displays my looks this should really come to no surprise to you that I love colors even in the winter. Hence why I love this falls pantone colors (see the colors here): pink flambe, tangerine tango, honey gold, bright charteus, and ultramarine green. I mean I stand out like a swore thumb amidst the sea of black and grey coats; I can't help but feel happy in my brightly color looks. And what's the use of having all these beautiful colors and not color blocking them. It's finally the weather where I can wear my Ann Taylor jacket again and color block it with my favorite brights, including my DVF sample sale find.

 
 
Jacket: Ann Taylor (old)
Sweater: Ann Taylor (old)
Skirt: DVF (sample sale)
Tights: Zara
Bag: Urban Expressions c/o Baghaus.com
Shoes: Target (old)
Ear muff: J.Crew (sample sale)

pictures taken by Brian Cavanaugh

What do you think of about wearing brights during the winter?

December 1, 2012

InstaNovember

1. Jewelry Designer and co-founder of Bombom Jewelry, Valeria, and I at my Bombom Jewelry Event (read about it here
|| 2. Ann Taylor Spring 2013 Preview (read about it here)
3. Getting into the Holiday spirit with my socks. || 4. Favorite Holiday! Chritsmas!
5. Morning shoe dilemmas || 6. Election Day outfit
7. Some wedding planning || 8. My shabby chic outfit 

follow me on instagram: fashionistanygirl

I can't believe we are in the midst of the Holiday season. This year has went by so fast! Before we know it we'll be ringing in the New Year! I hope everyone had a happy and safe Thanksgiving. It wouldn't have been Thanksgiving for me without some sort of drama. Thanksgiving started off with my Grandma in the emergency room (she's fine her arthritis was really bad), but after all that it was nice and calm. I'm totally looking froward to the Christmas season-- (my favorite time of year) gift giving, cookie making, and Christmas music! 

November 28, 2012

Style Guide: How to Mix Camo and Stripes



Mixing standard prints can always be less intimidating, but what happens when it comes to the unusual pairing of prints? Over some time I've become a fan of pairing different prints, it has become a little bit of an art for me. I try to keep it simple when mixing bolder prints, you never want to over state your look. Simple key pieces like nude shoes, blue jeans, and a simple handbag can make a whole look cohesive. 

When throwing this look together I wanted to be playful yet have a sophisticated feel to it, even if this was a weekend look for me. I especially wanted to look put together since this is what I wore to view a potential wedding venue, don't need them thinking that the future bride to be is a hot mess. To keep the look young and fun I paired it up with funky jewelry pieces that were courtesy of Ann Taylor and my favorite sparkle heel booties from H&M. I always like the hint of surprises. I kept everything else simple with classic accessories, American Eagle white watch and simple blue jeans. You can pair your favorite weekend bag with this look, it especially looks great with a small cross body bag. Since I needed to bring some extra stuff with me I used my favorite new tote bag from Lodinatt.

Jacket: Old Navy (mens)
Shirt: H&M
Jeans: American Eagle
Shoes: H&M (old)
Watch: American Eagle
Bracelets: c/o Ann Taylor
Bag: c/o Lodinatt

pictures taken by Brian Cavanaugh

The great thing about this look is that sure it relaxed for the weekend but you can also wear it to the office on your casual Fridays. Or even traveling for the Holidays. 

What do you think of this mix?
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