New Year’s Eve: Champagne, Diamonds & Caviar

It’s New Year’s Eve, and I am ready to soar into 2014!

There are many #hashtags to celebrate and goals to achieve in the new year so I wanted to share my current inspiration for 2014: Champagne, Diamonds & Caviar.

The color combo of golds, silvers and black is classic, chic  and all over Pinterest (think Great Gatsby meets Audrey Hepburn)! I love how strong, elegant and edgy this ensemble feels and I think it truly embodies how I feel right now.

Since I am awaiting the arrival of my official bar cart, I decided to go ahead and create a mini-tablescape for a New Year’s Eve celebration. All items are from Michaels, Target, T.J. Maxx, World Market and Marshalls. Like memories and party dresses, some items are new and some are old/re-purposed.

I had a blast putting this quick and versatile arrangement together in 15 minutes or less. Whatever the occasion, make it fun, fabulous and full of surprises.

I hope this puts a smile on your face, like it does mine and that you will also be inspired to kick off 2014 with a bang!

ShopStyle: We Search. We Find. We ShopStyle!

Personal style. Everyone has it. To me, style is an opportunity to express how you feel or how you want to feel.

Well, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to express my personal style by partnering with the POPSUGAR Select team and participating in the ShopStyle We Search. We Find. We ShopStyle. advertising campaign.

ShopStyle is an innovative and chic way to search all the hottest trends and items so you can cultivate your own style story and purchase these items immediately. ShopStyle is like your best shopping friend: they will hook you up with $ale alert$, editors’ picks for inspiration and gift guides to take the stress out of shopping for others.

If you’re getting your holiday shopping on, you need to download this free App!

In fact, you may have already seen the print or television ads, such as this one:

The print ads feature a lay down photo of products you can find on the ShopStyle website to curate your dream wardrobe:

ShopStyle Print Ad

My inspiration for creating my lay down comes the from the journal shown in the photo, which reads: Dream Big. Sparkle More. Shine Bright. 

This concept truly reflects my outlook in life and has a strong influence in my approach to style. I live for detail, color and sparkle.

The experience was crazy fun! I did a DIY photoshoot and employed the help of my ever-so supportive boyfriend to be my photographer for the day. The lay down concept is awesome, but as a “model” I’m not sure it captures my best angles 🙂

The lay down arrangement is like a mood board that tells a story of my wardrobe wonderland. I love classic silhouettes to honor my curves and I feel the right accessory can give every outfit polish and shine. Honestly, one can never have too many baubles or sparkly shoes. I also adore makeup and perfume–these touches make you come alive.

For my ensemble, I chose to pair darker, edgier details with the “We Shop Style” t-shirt that POPSUGAR provided for the photo shoot. I was feeling a little retro glam meets punk-chic but still sweet with my plaid Hello Kitty style bow and matte red lips. The rest of the items are more festive and whimsical, like a dream. I felt like was popping out of my dream closet!

Below are a few links to the items in my lay down photo. I’ve had some of the items for a few years, so if something is listed without a link it is most likely because the item is no longer available (or I was unable to locate a link elsewhere). If you are inspired by these items, you can check out the ShopStyle website or app to score your version!

Clothes:

NY & Co. creme and gold/champagne dress

H&M white embellished peplum blouse

Ann Taylor Loft creme/champagne zebra pencil skirt

NY & Co. leather moto jacket

Mossimo dark grey denim leggings

Shoes:

Nike Roshe Run sneakers

H&M hot pink pumps

Nine West Caress round toe gold glitter pumps

Payless Brash cream/champagne rhinestone ballet flats

Accessories:

Kate Spade Terrace Justine bow bag

Michael Kors Black and Optic White Selma Saffiano Satchel

Michael Kors women’s rose gold chronograph watch

Forever 21 red and black hair bow

BaubleBar emerald crystal drop earrings

BaubleBar sapphire crystal drop earrings

Prima Donna fashion jewelry

Mossimo Supply Co. fedora hat

FRENDS rose gold Taylor headphones

Charming Charlie white mix master bracelet

Journal from Marshalls

Makeup:

Sonia Kashuk silver glitter makeup brushes (limited edition 2011 holiday set)

Sonia Kashuk matte limited edition “The Red Lip–Matte” lipstick

MAC Cosmetics Hello Kitty beauty powder in Tahitian Sand

Essie nail polish in Ballet Slippers

See by Chloe eau de parfum

Viva La Juicy by Juicy Couture eau de parfum

So, what do you think? Want to see more? Check out other lay down photos and ShopStyle inspirations on Instagram by following @ShopStyle and search #WeShopStyle.

Lucky FABB is here!

Okay darlings, I’m keeping this one short and sweet because I am getting ready for Lucky FABB (Fashion & Beauty Blogger) Conference!!!

Stay tuned for updates via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook:

Twitter: @iamsparkles

Instagram: @Iamsparkles

Facebook: Elizabethology

Hope to see you there ; )

Express Grand Opening Party & Jessica Sturdy from Bows & Sequins

{Yours truly with Jessica Sturdy, style blogger of Bows & Sequins…we match!}

I had the honor of meeting Jessica Sturdy, style blogger behind Bows & Sequins last Thursday at the Desk-to-Dinner shopping event with InStyle Magazine  and Grand Opening Party for Express at Madison and 51st in NYC.

Jessica was so sweet and we talked about how she started her blog and some of the exciting projects she is working on. I asked her some style advice questions and I wish I could take her shopping with me because this lady has an amazing eye for style.

The theme of the event was Desk to Dinner. How to take your professional work attire and transition this into night life. Think about the blouse/pencil skirt combo and adding a leather jacket and a long chain or trading in your denim for leather pants.

The newly renovated Express had a club-vibe and there were hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, mini makeovers and of course special discounts for purchases made during the event. I wore a fancy Express top (black and gold lame) with a black blazer, skinny dark denim and leopard flats. After all, I took the whole desk-to-dinner theme literally by adding the blazer and walking from work to the event. I wore my Bows & Sequins inspired necklace my sister gave to me (from JewelMint) in honor of the hostess.

{Display styled by Jessica}

{A few items I picked up from the event: Diamonds & Camo}

{My Bows & Sequins inspired necklace from JewelMint}

Upon entering the store I took the atmosphere in and immediately recognized Jessica. I introduced myself and we got to talking. She recognized my top because she also owns one and she got the reference from my necklace right away : ) Jessica took me around parts of the store explaining the outfit she wore and some of the displays she styled for the night. Not only was I a bit star-struck to ask this style guru my questions, but I was ecstatic that Jessica was so open about her blogging, career and encouragement to me and my dreams.

I’d love to share some of the highlights from my convo with Jessica:

Highlights:

Dressing to Impress:

Jessica will also be attending this year’s Lucky FABB in NYC! She went last year and said the speakers were amazing and the networking you get to do is priceless. She said the energy was high and the gift bags were fabulous. She was excited when I told her I was going for the first time and I asked her what a beauty or fashion blogger should wear to an event like this.

Jessica’s advice: Wear something that is honest to who you are and comfortable–both in fit and style. This is the event where you can wear anything that expresses your style, but you don’t need to feel like you have to wear something wild to stand out. Her lesson for me was that she wore pants to last year’s conference that weren’t tailored and she did not feel 100% comfortable in them and it can show in your body language and pictures. At a conference like Lucky FABB, you can’t afford to be uncomfortable in your ensemble–you have to focus on feeling fabulous and enjoying the moment (and taking the most Instagram-worthy selfies ever).

Fall Trend Alert:

I asked Jessica if there was one thing we should pay attention to this Fall, be it a print, color combo or cut. Jessica took me over to one of the displays she styled for Express and explained that she is currently feeling Camo (yes, it’s back!) to mix with more refined pieces (i.e. camo shirt with blazer and skirt for work). She also loves the incorporation of leather details like piping on skirts and of course the slew of moto-style jackets that are in practically every collection–classic and adaptable bad-ass chic style. For colors indulge in black and white; gold and black.

Expressing Your Style:

If you have checked out Bows & Sequins (do so right now if you haven’t) you know that Jessica displays her outfits of the day (OOTD) with candid with the city as her backdrop. I asked her how she felt about taking these pictures out in the open where passers by are sure to gawk out of curiosity. Jessica agreed that especially when she started blogging in Chicago, that the idea was a little frightening to her and that she had to be creative in how she got the pictures taken (now she has the assistance from friends and photogs, but before that she had to rely on self timers and quick poses!). Her confidence comes from loving what she wears and having fun with expressing her style choices.

Now she is more comforatble about the street style pics, even if a small crowd forms near her shoot. After all, that’s New York for you. The sidewalks are our catwalks and we are all models and photographers.

Passion Advice:

I am so grateful to Jessica for giving me her honest advice about how I can manage a not-so-dream job and the pursuit of the ideal career path while juggling a blog and passion that requires whatever remaining time and energy you have. Basically, you have to stick to your guns, take advantage of every opportunity you have and surround yourself with the right energy to keep you grounded and humble.

For all my fellow bloggers, whether this is your “hobby” or your career, you have to put in the hard work and allow yourself to thoroughly enjoy the fruits of your labor. And for those of you who feel like you’re not that important or not that big of a deal: Jessica has come a long way from sharing outfit pictures to hosting events and being an ambassador for brands. She didn’t get there overnight and she still has those pinch-me moments where she can’t believe the opportunities that have blossomed from her blog. But most importantly, she does not take it for granted and she appreciates her supporters.

Bottom line: If you have subscribers, fans or followers you have source of support and admiration from people who celebrate you and look forward to what you have to share. So keep on sharing, creating, writing and designing. There are millions of creative people in the blogosphere and the more variety we have the more we have to celebrate.

For more pictures from the event, search for #EXPStyle!

Express Grand Opening Party with InStyle Magazine & Jessica Sturdy of Bows & Sequins

Who: Jessica Sturdy, style blogger and author of Bows & Sequins

What: Express Grand Opening with InStyle Magazine

When: Thursday, October 3rd @ 6 PM – 8 PM

Where: Express @ Madison Ave & 51st Street

Why: Desk-to-Dinner Shopping Event

October: Breast Cancer Awareness & Domestic Violence Awareness Month

{Photo courtesy of Avon Foundation}

October has kicked off and there are so many things to look forward to on the agenda. This is indeed a very special month not just because we start the end-of-the-year holiday season (bring it on, baby) but because it is Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness month.

These are extremely important issues for women and it is imperative for us to recognize where we stand in terms of progress and how our communities can unite to make a difference.

I love to write about beauty and style and there is nothing more beautiful or stylish than to support a cause that affects so many.

I believe…

Awareness is beautiful. Empowerment is beautiful. Unity is beautiful.

I’ve included a few organizations and programs that you can check out and support. Please feel free to share with your family, friends and coworkers and let me know if there are any other organizations you support!

From the National Coalition of Against Domestic Violence:

Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October, 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect battered women’s advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became a special week when a range of activities were conducted at the local, state, and national levels.

From Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN):

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of “America’s 100 Best Charities” by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,100 local rape crisis centers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helplinefor the Department of Defense. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice.

From National Breast Cancer Awareness Month :

The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) is a collaboration of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies working together to promote breast cancer awareness, share information on the disease, and provide greater access to services.

Since its inception more than 25 years ago, NBCAM has been at the forefront of promoting awareness of breast cancer issues and has evolved along with the national dialogue on breast cancer. NBCAM recognizes that, although many great strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, there remains much to be accomplished. Today, we remain dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their own breast health.

From Susan G. Komen:

You may be a runner. A volunteer. Or an activist. But however you choose to get involved, just know that everything you do makes a difference. After all, without the support of people like you, we know 10 million people could die of breast cancer in the next 25 years. Susan G. Komen for the Cure® strives to raise funds and educate people in the battle against breast cancer through global events and legislative actions each year. Breast cancer is still killing and impacting far too many of our loved ones. So, how will you get involved?

From Avon Foundation For Women:

From crusading against breast cancer to speaking out against domestic violence, the Avon Foundation has been standing strong for women since 1955.

From the Mary Kay Foundation:

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Mary Kay Foundation is a leader helping end violence against women and finding a cure for cancers affecting woman. What better way to support both of these causes then to participate in The Mary Kay Foundation’s MK5K Saturday, Oct. 5. For more details visit, http://lnkd.in/bMkEzV5less

From m.powerment by Mark:

I hope your October is filled with achievement and empowerment. 

If you have any words of encouragement or a story to share, please feel free to leave a comment!

Pass it on : )

Just for YOU: 20% Promo Code for Cherry Blossom Tree Designs!

Birthday in a Box has launched–what better way is there to say “happy birthday” then sending that special someone a mini surprise party?

Elizabethology fans can enjoy an exclusive offer from Cherry Blossom Tree Designs!

Visit the shop, Customize your order & Enter promo code “LizXO20” during checkout.

This offer will expire on October 13, 2013, so happy shopping : )

There are many options to choose from…here’s a few examples of adorable customized goodies you can request:

Love what you see? Well, CBTD will be introducing customizable boxes for many more occasions…but probably not this kind!

Sneak Peek: Birthday in a Box

My mom’s birthday is tomorrow, but she lives more than 2,000 miles away. Sending her a present is standard, but what if I could send her a whole birthday party in one box?

Well, it is now possible to send anyone, anywhere their own Birthday, Party or Celebration in a Box!

This idea comes from my sister, who is also the creator of Cherry Blossom Tree Designs (CBTD). CBTD specializes in handmade paper goods to celebrate every occasion~from personalized invitations, greeting cards, banners to cake toppers, treat bags and so much more.

My sister couldn’t come to NY for my birthday last month, so she created my very own Birthday in a Box. I was beyond thrilled to find this miniature box of joy and wanted to share this with you!

Starting next week she will be adding this one-of-a-kind box service so you can spread the joy as well (pricing and shipping details will be available soon).

Website: http://www.cherryblossomtreedesigns.com/

Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/cherryblossomtrees

Each box can be personalized with a theme and you can select different kinds of treats based on the occasion and person for whom you are curating a box. The boxes are small enough to decorate someone’s office, cubicle, locker, car, coffee table, vanity–basically anywhere a mini party can be displayed!

Here’s what my first Birthday in a Box included (prepared to have a cute-attack!):

♡Keepsake Box

♡Personalized Card

♡Mini Cupcake Magnet

♡Pink Polka Dot Balloons

♡Mini ‘Happy Birthday’ Banner

♡Gold Glitter Clothespin Magnets (to hang your banner high!)

♡On-the-Go Confetti Pack

{She also gave my a beautiful Ted Baker watch and a mustachioed Hello Kitty tin!}

You can’t deny how cute and clever this idea is and there is a box for any reason and special person (congratulations, best wishes, get well soon, I miss you, care package, farewell, good luck, thank you, thinking of you, happy anniversary, will you marry me, will you be my bridesmaid, baby shower, bachelorette party, party favors, employee or teacher appreciation, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah, Happy New Year, and etc.).

Just one week until you can celebrate and commemorate one box at a time…here’s how:

Hester Street Fair + Michelle Phan & Em Cosmetics

Her vision is limitless. She shines so bright that she lights up the dream in my heart, and I know she does the same for everyone she reaches.

Today was a fulfilling day because I got to check out some spectacular treasures at the Hester Street Fair in NYC (LES) and above all, I got to meet my inspiration, Michelle Phan!

If you have ever been on the Internet, you have probably seen something about Michelle and her work.  Michelle has evolved into a superstar in the beauty industry and has pioneered in the world of DIY and social media success.

In a nutshell, Michelle has worked her heart out and it is safe to say she has “made it.” I have susbcribed to Michelle’s YouTube channel Michelle Phan since 2006 and she has been a source of inspiration to me ever since.

To name a few of her accomplishments:

A photo from Michelle’s feature in October’s Glamour Magazine:

Michelle recently launched Em Cosmetics,  her very own cosmetics line in collaboration with L’Oréal cosmetics:

And of course, she also spearheaded the YouTube beauty guru-inspired subscription service called Ipsy:

These are just a few reasons why Michelle Phan is someone to admire.

Her vision is limitless. She shines so bright that she lights up the dream in my heart, and I know she does the same for everyone she reaches.

At the Hester Street Fair, you have a chance to meet local artisans, chefs and jewelers. The first thing I did was head straight to Michelle’s Em Cosmetics tent to check out the goods and meet the ultimate beauty guru:

Original Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich from Melt Bakery:

Original Artwork from Tamara Garvey:

Midi Rings from Wink and Flip:

Mix It Up Pinks Lip Palette from Em Cosmetics (she signed ”Good Luck“!):

I’m wearing the NYX eyeshadow color in Morocco from this month’s Ipsy bag!

A brilliant touch is the empty bubble, where you can mix the colors to make your own shade!

I had such a great time–another magical NYC moment. Thanks to Michelle for her kindness and grace.

Ladies, never give up on your dreams and always reach for the brightest star!

Lucky FABB NY 2013 – See You There!

Today is a good day because I just got my ticket to the 2013 Lucky FABB in NY!!

What is Lucky FABB, you say? Well this is the biannual Fashion and Beauty Blog Conference hosted by Lucky Magazine, which unites bloggers from around the globe to attend a one or two-day event filled with priceless discussion from industry professionals and idols alike, workshops, networking opportunities and killer giveaways (aka SWAG BAGS)!

Back in April the FABB conference took place on the West Coast and featured celebs and style influencers such as Drew Barrymore, Kelly Osbourne and Betsey Johnson.

The NY conference will take place October 24th & October 25th and the keynote speaker is Lucky’s October cover girl, Eva Mendes!

{Photo Courtesy of Tarsha’s Glossy Newsstand}

Eva has also teamed up with NY&CO and you can expect to see her new collection launch September 19th — just in time to find something fabulous to showcase at FABB.

{Photo Courtesy of Babblings of a Mommy}

{Photo Courtesy of Babblings of a Mommy}

This will be my first time attending FABB and I am beyond excited to share what I will learn from this conference!

Are you attending Lucky FABB in October? If so, let me know and we can meet up at the event!

To learn more about registration, check this out: Apply to Lucky FABB 2013