Outfit Post: Christmas Sequins

Red and Black Plaid Shirt (similar option) || Mindy Mae's Market Gold Sequin Skirt (now on sale!) || Zara Shoes (similar option) || GiGi New York Leather Clutch c/o || Caravelle New York Watch (gifted) || J.Crew Bracelet || Rocksbox Necklace || Chanel Allure Gloss in Seduction c/o PeopleStyleWatch

I can't believe Christmas is already over! It really snuck up on me this year. I've been so pre-occupied with work, that I hardly got to enjoy or plan for the season. But it was still a great couple of days none the less!

I ordered this Sequin Swing skirt back in November and it arrived just in time for Christmas Eve service. I'm absolutely in love with it! Sequins can really be so versatile. They're perfect for dressing up and casual outfits. Yes, casual! I can't wait to pair it with a crop top once the weather warms up. But for a December night, a red and black plaid shirt was the perfect, subtle Christmas touch. 

I've been on a bit of a hiatus, but don't worry! My major project at work finally launched (yay!) so I'm hoping I can make it home early a few days to shoot outfits. This 4:45 PM sunset thing is really cramping my blog photo style! Until then, make sure you're following me on instagram for behind-the-scenes outfits! Hope you and yours had a Merry Christmas! xo

linking up with Trend Spin & Style Sessions

Outfit Post: St. Paddy's Day Pants

 

 J.Crew Green Bow Print Pants

Target Chambray Shirt

Sole Society Heather Wedges (old - super similar here) & Natalaya Mini Cross Body Bag c/o

Julie Vos Grande Soho Necklace c/o LuckyFABB

Skull Bracelet via Vestique (similar budget style and splurge option) || Grandmother's Vintage Ring || Caravelle by Bulova Rose Gold Watch c/o LuckyFABB (updated version here) || Vintage Sunglasses (similar style) || Revlon Super Lustrous "Fire & Ice" Lipstick

 

We're not huge St. Patrick's Day celebrators but I still think it's fun to wear Green and who really wants to get pinched anyways? Plus there's still hope that someday I'll wake up to a big pot of gold by my bed... As the Biebs would say: "Never Say Never"!

 

March has been incredibly busy and crazy and amazing. I've got some exciting news about an event I'll be co-hosting on Saturday! More on that to come. If you're in Raleigh I hope you can make it. Until then shop my accessories from this post below. Happy Monday!!

P.S. did you know that it's incorrect to say: St. Patty's Day? Apparently if you shorten the holiday, it should be: St. Paddy's Day! Anyone else been doing this completely wrong for like... ever? I have!!

  

 

 

{Holiday} Gift Guide: For the BFF (Under $50)

 

Not sure what to get your bestie this holiday season?! Don't worry.. I've put together some of my favorite options that will show her just how much you love her without breaking the bank!

 

For the Newlywed:

Mr. & Mrs. Cocktail Bar Glass Set - $18

These adorable glasses are just the item to get your recently hitched gal pal. I love the moustache and lip imprints - so cheeky and super cutesy! Pair with mini liquor bottles or a split of champs for twice the excitement!

 

For the World Traveler:

Sole Society Natassia Vegan Satchel - $50

We've all got that jet setting friend. She's here one week, gone the next. So get her something she'll really appreciate like this all purpose satchel. It has a detachable shoulder strap, will fit all her carry-on items (ipad, magazines, books, scarf etc..) and double as a handbag while she's jet-setting around town.

 

For the Sparkle Lover:

J.Crew Crystal Button Earrings - $36

She's a classic kind of gal. Loves LBD's, martinis & a great red nail polish. These floral crystal beauties will be the perfect addition to her everyday look. She can pair them with jeans and a tee or for a fancy date night out on the town.

 

For the Girl With Everything:

Sole Society Smythe Sunglasses - $25

What do you get someone that seems to have everything their heart desires? A great pair of sunnies! It's something she can use year round and these slightly oversize tortoise frame look amazing on just about everyone. Bonus points if you wrap them in a hard case!

 

For the Social Media Obsessed:

Kate Spade "Be Dazzling" Glitter iPhone Softcase - $35

She is a twitter wizard and an instagram selfie pro. So why not share in all her electronic glory by gifting her with a super girly and chic case like this one. Just make sure she's looking at you and not the screen during Girl's Night Out

 

For the Fashionista:

Shop Dandy #OOTD T-Shirt - $25

You know that girl who isn't afraid to pull off anything (including a damn paper bag) Trust me, she will love this one! Bet you 100 bucks she can come up with at least 5 ways to wear this sassy shirt immediately!

 

For the Hostess With The Mostest:

Target Threshold Fox Bowl & Serve Dish Set - $16

She's always throwing the best parties and get-togethers, right? Chances are she will think this playful fox serve ware is just as charming as you. You could wrap it up for her to open.. or fill with olives and nuts, bring it to her holiday party and then let her know it's hers to keep! Love that idea!

 

So what do you guys think - any of these BFF options tickle your fancy?

Holiday Outfit Post: Turkey Day Sequin Sweatpants

 

Sequin Sweatpants and Baseball Sweater c/o LuLu's

ShoeDazzle "Lisa" Metallic Wedge Pump (sold out - SUPER similar at J.Crew on sale!)

DaisyGem Crystal Flower Necklace c/o (Use code BEDAZN to score it for just $15!!!)

Michael Kors "Bradshaw" Rose Gold Watch || Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in "Wild Orchid"

 

I promise I wasn't lying when I told you about my 2 ideal Thanksgiving Day outfits... here is what I wore yesterday. When I found out LuLu's carried these sequin sweatpants.. I couldn't have been more thrilled. I tweeted about them, blogged about them and finally got them just in time for the holiday season! They're actually going to be 1 of my favorite things to wear well past Christmas & New Year's because they're so damn comfy! I mean my fancy sequin pants had an elastic waistband for Thanksgiving dinner. What more could you need?

 

Let's talk jewels for a second.. this Daisy Gem statement necklace is going to get some serious rotation for the holidays. I have lots of statement pieces but none that are just regular crystal colored. DaisyGem has also been so kind to offer BAD readers the chance to scoop up this exact necklace for only $15!! Just use promo code BEDAZN when you check out. And if you spy something else on their site that you like.. no worries! You can use code BEDA15 for 15% off your entire order!! Talk about a holiday score!

 

What did you end up wearing for T-Day? We're going to visit my husband's family this weekend and I might have to pack these pants. 2 Thanksgiving dinners in 1 weekend? How lucky am I?

 

Don't forget to enter this giveaway still happening! Happy Friday! xo

 

linking up with Because Shanna Said So

What To Wear on Thanksgiving Day

 

ONE

Chambray Shirt || Thick Ribbed Leggings || Riding Boots || Leopard Scarf || Gold Bangles

 

TWO

Sequin Slouchy Sweatpants || Baseball Sweater || Pointy Toe Pump || Crystal Statement Necklace

 

I absolutely love Thanksgiving. The parades, the football, the food, the family... It's always a super fun and relaxing holiday. Which is exactly why you shouldn't stress out too much about your outfit. Let's focus on keeping your ensemble casual and chic. Chances are you'll be spending most of the day sitting, crafting, stuffing your face and enjoying life so you'll want to be as comfortable as possible.

 

Enter my 2 ideal Thanksgiving outfits. Leggings let your tummy expand after your umpteenth helping while sequin sweatpants make you feel as if you're wearing pajamas. Fancy pajamas that is. You can never go wrong with chambray or a detailed sweater - both items give you a cozy but put together vibe. If you want to go on the glam side try a pointy toe pump. Add some glittering accessories and you are all set to celebrate Turkey day!

 

Tell me.. what are your T-Day plans? Did I mention I can't wait to eat? :)

 

Pssstttt.. did you see this giveaway happening? Uhhhhhh yeah.. you read that right! Over $500 worth of items! :)

Winter Wish List

 

Zara Tartan Scarf || Gentle Fawn Sequin Sweatpants via LuLu's || Space 46 Boutique Ivory Tulle Midi Skirt || Diba Blossom Pump via DSW || Michael Kors Gold & Black Bradshaw Watch || Old Navy Gingham Plaid Button Up

 

Although our weather patterns seem to be having difficulty deciphering what time of the year it was (74 yesterday, 53 today) I'm well aware that winter is coming in strong! And I wouldn't exactly call this my Christmas list but more what items I want so that I can create dazzling winter and holiday party outfits.....

 

Okay ever since I spotted this Zara beauty on Poor Little It Girl, I cannot get it off my mind. It just looks so cozy & comfy that it would go with any outfit. I'm not sure why but I own absolutely nothing plaid so I figured this could be a great start. And speaking of owning nothing plaid... I didn't think I could pull off a gingham shirt - but after seeing this pin on Pinterest - I'm determined to try! This Old Navy option (comes in blue too) is the perfect price to play around in.

 

I love dressing up for Thankgiving. It's basically the jump start to the holiday party season. However my waistline usually hates me since I have to unbutton my jeans 1/2 way through my 2nd (or 3rd) helping. Enter Sequin Slouchy Pants.. with an elastic waistband... I mean, hello! Genius or what? I also am obsessed with the new black and gold version my favorite Bradshaw watch from Michael Kors. It's so sleek & sexy! Also a gal can never have too many pairs of pointy toe pumps - how about this studded option at a fabulous steal of a price!

 

Okay, now I've been hinting at wanting a tulle skirt for about 100 years now.. but thankfully Space 46 Boutique is coming out with a midi version that will be available to ship around December 7th. Which means it will be here just in time for Christmas!!!! I can't even begin to tell you how ecstatically happy this makes me. I plan to never take it off. I might even sleep in it (sorry Bill)

 

What about you? What are you currently craving for your wish list? Any of these items on your holiday gift list? Shop these picks and more options below! Happy Tuesday!

 

2013 Goals {and celebrating 2012}

2012 was pretty fabulous. It was challenging, exciting, exhausting & life changing. I never thought I'd be where I am right now but the last 12 months have taught me a lot. I'm hoping for 2013 to be another year of change.

 

 Before I list my 2013 goals below, I just wanted to say a BIG thank you to all my readers our there! You truly pushed me to step up my blogging game and for that I am forever grateful! I still feel like BAD has a long road ahead to get it where I want it to be.. but I feel like it's headed in the direction I need it to be. And without you, that wouldn't be possible!

 

I met a few of last year's goals (seen here) but this year I want to get a bit more specific.. and I figure what better way to stay accountable than listing them here.. (You'll remember I don't really believe in resolutions but working towards a finish line)

 

1. Continue my workout & diet 4 - 6 days a week.

Okay this was on last year's list but I really do love my workout program and I stayed on track for a good part of last year. But after LuckyFABB I kind of fell off the wagon.. so it's time to get back on the wagon and drive full speed ahead

 

2. Post at least 2 outfit posts a week

I vowed to do more outfit posts in 2012 and I did! But now I'm ready to get even more serious. The last few weeks I haven't felt motivated to shoot anything so I thought setting a specific goal would get me moving.

 

3. Make at least 1 - 2 phone calls to family & friends per week (and get over my fear of Skype)

Being so far away from everyone who is important to me has made it tough on a few of my relationships. I'm thankful that we can connect through texts & emails but sometimes face-to-face or voice-to-voice contact is so important. And even though the time change is a hurdle, sometimes I am super lazy and rely on that excuse too much. Oh also, I have a weird Skype phobia - it totally creeps me out. I know, I know, it's completely strange/weird but I hope 2013 can kick that fear.

 

4. Find a new to charity to connect with and volunteer my time/gifts with them

I found a few fun organizations that I got involved with last year but I know I can always give more. I'd really like to find a non-profit that I can have a more permanent schedule with i.e. come in once a month on a regular basis.

 

5. Do at least 1 DIY project a month

This is probably my most challenging goal.. haha as silly as that sounds. I am terrible with DIYs but I always want to do them! I think it would be so much fun to turn it into a girls night in. Have some apps, drink some wine & tackle a project together.

 

So what are some of your 2013 goals? Anything that you're really hoping to accomplish? I'm challenging you guys to hold me to my goals!! Happy Wednesday loves!

Christmastime Is Here [photos]

 Clockwise from Left: {my mom's creative way of wrapping a magazine subscription // the Zara booties I've been dreaming of for months // Bill & one of my favorite wrapped packages // Christmas Day breakfast - a tradition in my family // our tree on Christmas Eve // The Grinch, Allagash White & a Christmas mani // traditional Christmas Eve presents // Christmas Day dinner - steak diane  // opening presents!  // the finished mani product // Me, Bill & the self timer}

 

I'm taking a few days off to enjoy the holidays with my husband. I'll be popping around here and there but mostly I'll be eating the last of the sweets & watching fashion documentaries on Netflix. Regular posting will begin again after the New Year. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram! Hope you and yours had a very merry one!!

Sole Society Pick: Holiday Glitter Pump

Happy Friday everyone! You have made it through & I've got some awesome and affordable shoe candy for you as we head into the weekend. Okay, let's talk Holidays! (I know, I know.. it's only November 9th but I'm already getting the itch to play Christmas music so please forgive me for this "pre-mature" post. Plus, whoever said planning ahead was a bad thing?) These gorgeous glittering gems popped up in my inbox this morning from Sole Society and I just HAD to share them with you!

Let's be real - the Marilyn pump would be perfect for any outfit. However, I am thinking they would look especially awesome for your next holiday soiree! Marilyn is a pointy pump, with a 4" heel and completely covered in black glitter. She would look super sophisticated at an office party or provide the right dash of sparkle while you ring in the New Year. Talk about versatility! Pair her with a LBD and lots of bling or maybe a pair of colored tights. You could also wear a black skinny pant and bold blazer then top off your look with these sparkling babies. But she's not just for special occasions! After the holidays, throw her on with some boyfriend jeans and a comfy sweater and BOOM! Instant Outfit Upgrade!

As usual, this pump is totally budget friendly - only 49 bucks! What's your go-to holiday outfit pick? Does it involve sparkles & sequins? I just bought these lovelies from Sole Society and can't wait to start wearing them!

 

They're the Stella Pump in silver glitter - Do you love? Be on the lookout for them in upcoming outfits! Have a GREAT weekend everyone!! xoxo!

 

{Linking up with}

Outfit Post: Beach Stripes for the 4th

Top: Forever 21 (recent)

Shorts: Abercrombie & Fitch (old)

Glitter Flats: Target (old)

Hat: Vintage/Consignment (no name)

Bracelets: Vintage

Nails: Sally Hansen "Ru-by or Not to Be"; Lips: NYX Chaos

Here's my second look that I put together for the Societe Perrier piece. I'm planning on spending the 4th basking in our SoCal sun on the beach. This is the perfect look to go from bikini cover up to a to a casual bbq lunch with friends.

What are you planning on doing and wearing to celebrate your 4th of July?! Happy Sunday everyone!!

Outfit Post: Blue Lace for the 4th

Dress: H&M (recent)

Booties: Sole Society

Bracelets: Vintage

Nails: Sally Hansen "Ru-by or Not to Be"; Lips: NYX Chaos

 A few weeks ago, I got asked to participate in a piece that a writer was covering for Societe Perrier on "4th of July" fashion. The article isn't out yet, but I wanted to share a few of the outfits not chosen for the feature.

This was my version of celebrating Independence Day "dressed up". Dressing for the 4th doesn't have to be super fancy or going overboard with details. You'll most likely be eating hot dogs, running around with sparklers and just casually enjoying yourself. {At least that's how I usually like to spend my 4ths} If you're doing something a bit nicer, stick to a simple color palette and easy silhouettes.

**in other news I finally got a DSLR camera! Hoping to test it out this weekend!**

Easter Weekend [photos]

Happy Monday loveys!! How was your weekend?! Mine was so incredibly fabulous! We had a packed schedule, gorgeous weather and a special celebration! Since Instagram finally introduced a version of the app for Android - I've been snapping pics non stop!

We take birthdays very seriously in our department! We showered our boss with cupcakes from my favorite bakery, Yummy Cupcakes, and a GORGEOUS arrangement of flowers.

Saturday afternoon the hubs and I had a fun date night that started out at Copa D'Oro with happy hour! They had a fully stocked bar which provided delish cocktails & I shot a sneak peek of my latest outfit post. Be sure to follow me on Facebook for more pics!

We got up early on Sunday for an amazing Easter Sunrise Service. The moon was still out when we arrived at the beach - it was breathtaking and amazingly overwhelming. What a special gift He gave us!

Sunday afternoon prompted a long stroll around our neighborhood - I can't wait for summer!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram: NRich14

2012 Goals

Happy New Year Lovelies! Hopefully you had a wonderful NYE filled with lots of glitter and sparkle. We kept ours relatively low key, filled with great food, good friends and lots of bubbly [naturally] Although the typical way to celebrate a clean slate involves making resolutions, I'm not really a fan. I find these "promises" just set everyone up for disappointment or failure. So instead I create goals for myself. I like to think of it as giving myself something to work towards rather than a necessity. And in honor of 2012 I thought I would share a few of my new goals with you...

Christmas Weekend [photos]

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukkah! Billy and I had the rare occasion of having both Saturday & Sunday off together! It was a fabulous {and quiet} weekend that involved lots of eating, shopping and being thankful for what we have!

Our beautiful tree - I love all of our bright ornaments and shiny packages

Christmas Eve we went shopping and I scored this fab J Crew dress for 35 bucks with an original price of $395! Talk about a steal...

My gorgeous gifts that my husband picked out all by himself!!!

We really racked up the gift cards from both sides of our family! Apparently we like to shop and go to the movies A LOT! :)

This was The Jacky on Christmas night... talk about being exhausted! We think he had too much eggnog....

Hope you had a wonderful mini-break! Yay for 4-day work weeks!

{Holiday} Gift Guide: For The Guy

1: J Crew Cashmere Scarf $88. 2: Ray-Ban Classic Wayfarer Sunglasses $145. 3: Sperry Top-Sider Oxford Boot $100. 4: Fossil Messenger Bag $278. 5: Brixton Leather Belt $45. 6: Pentax Vintage Inspired Digital Camera $250. 7: L'Occitane After Shave Balm $30. 8: Nixon "51-30" Chrono Watch $375. 9: Imbibe! Book $20. 10: North Face Down Jacket $200.

Let's face it... Men are hard to shop for. Every Christmas and Birthday I'm continually stumped about what to buy my husband or father or brother. It seems anything they want, they either already have or buy it themselves. So this year I wanted to include a few options and ideas that may help you find the perfect gift for that special guy. I'm loving that digital camera that looks like a vintage collectable or a fabulous pair of classic sunglasses. Or if your guy appreciates whiskey as much as my husband does, reach for a fabulous read featuring stories and drink recipes dedicated to the first pioneer of the American bar. What guy wouldn't love that? Good luck Ladies!!