Monday, December 31, 2012

Tommy Hilfiger 2012

I took a class my senior year based on visual advertising and for my final 10 page paper, I researched and assessed the Tommy Hilfiger 2011 holiday ad campaign. It was such a fun ad campaign and it was really interesting to see what influenced the campaign.


Well, it is the last day of 2012 and the holiday season is coming to and end (SO sad), so I thought I would cover Tommy Hilfiger's 2012 ad campaign because it is another fabulous addition to years past. 
Fall 2012. Love the muted colors and the ever present woody in the background!

I love the whole ski vibe they have going. Look at all of those models... they really wear it well, don't they?! 

I have to admit, I don't shop Tommy Hilfiger... ever. In fact, I think I only own a skirt by TH that I got as a gift many years ago. I just checked out TH and found some great pieces. 

What do you think of Tommy's ad campaigns and clothing? Have a fabulous day and a very fabulous New Years Eve. Please be safe and make smart decisions!

Yours, 
sCe

Friday, December 28, 2012

The Great Bean Debate

Bloggers/readers, I need your opinion again!!! You were all so helpful with my original boot decision so I have come to ask for help again! Who knew winter boot shopping would be so darn stressful!

I tried the Sorel Joan of Arctic boots on at Nordstrom and while I could definitely see the potential warmth, I felt that they were a little too over the top and too much boot for me. However, I still love the way they look...just not for me! 

I completely discounted the Hunters, although that is what cCm chose. I didn't think they would provide the warmth that I was looking for; but like the Sorels, I love the way they look. 

Ultimately, I ended up purchasing....
The L.L. Bean 8" GoreTex/Thinsulate. My though process was that they are the ultimate classic winter boots and will last me forever. The more you wear them, the comfier and cozy they become. Plus, L.L. Bean guarantees the boots and you can send them in for any repair. Money well spent in my book. I also think that they look really cute with skirts. The GoreTex provides the most warmth and the Thinsulate makes the boot completely waterproof. The salesman at L.L. Bean assured me that the GoreTex provides more warmth than  the shearling... and another plus of the GoreTex is that the tongue is attached, whereas the tongue is detached on the shearling version. I also purchased shearling foot-beds for the boots for extra warmth. 

Now here is the dilemma. I love the classic look of the above boot. However, now I am thinking that I need the 10" instead. But the 10" only comes in brown on brown (they didn't carry either in the store for me to try on). 

The top boot is the 10" shearling lined and the bottom boot is the 10" GoreTex

I don't mind the all brown when looking at them but trying to actually wear the all brown 10" boots with black (such as black leggings or tights) would really clash. Should I stick with the 8" or go with the 10"?! This is just something I can't seem to make my mind up about! Thanks for all of your comments and help already; I really appreciate it. Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Sephora Crazed

I was cleaning out my handbag last night when I realized I have been carrying around far too many products. In fact, just the other day, I was in Sephora and I reached the VIB beauty insider level... that's when you know things have gotten out of hand!!! Now that Christmas is over, I thought I'd give a makeup update on products I have tried recently. 

If there is one thing I have learned, if there is a makeup product that you love, buy several (aka "stockpile") because for some reason, makeup companies love to discontinue products and make things limited edition. For example, my beloved $9 Maybeline pulsating mascara... discontinued. Luckily, I had purchased about 6 tubes. However, a few months ago, I ran out. I found a new product that I think works just as well (and I bought another 6 tubes). It is the L'Oreal Voluminous Fiber Lash. At $9, this stuff does the trick. I never bother with fancy mascaras or pricey versions because I go through it so quickly. My requirements for a good mascara:
-no clumps
-easy application
-easy removal 
-Less than $10
-Available at Target/Drugstores

My next favorite discontinued item is the Sephora buildable concealer. I only have one compact left and it is the best. I had to find a new favorite and the salesperson in Sephora helped me to choose 2 items. I got the YSL Touche Eclat in #2 (for under eyes) and Smashbox Camera Ready Full Coverage Concealer. I love them because they are in stick form so I can easily toss them in a bag for on the go application. 

This BareMinerals eye shadow compact is fabulous. The colors are great, but the fact that the little pots snap in and out makes it even better. I use the whole set at home when I am sitting at my vanity, but there is one color that I love so I snap it out for travel or throwing into my handbag (can't seem to find it online, but it is in BareMineral stores!). 

I purchased a few more products from Sephora that I will highlight next week... or else this post would be a novel! What products are you loving? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Cold Feet

Yesterday, we got hit with a winter wonderland. It was truly the best. I love the snow. I love skiing. I love bundling-up, fires, hot beverages, lots of blankets and anything else that comes with snowy weather. I don't think I am alone when I say that I really don't like cold feet... I mean who does? 

Well... the 6" L.L. Bean boots are not cutting it here in Pittsburgh. We need to bring out the big guns boots. I am debating between several pairs and I need your help...




Option #3: Hunter boots (must have the inserts as well!!). 

To be honest, I really don't care what they look like (yikes... I never thought I'd say that). I honestly just want them for function and practical reasons that will keep my toes nice and toasty. Which pair do you have and do you like/dislike them? What do you recommend? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

God Bless Us, Everyone!


 "But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." "
-Luke 2:10&11

Yours, 
sCe

Monday, December 24, 2012

I Believe

Yours, 
sCe

Friday, December 21, 2012

Last Minute Shopper: Sephora


I guess I have to mention the whole thing about the world ending today. Well... if yoe have  held off your holiday shopping because you thought there was a chance it might end... it hasn't. You better start shopping because you only have 4 more days!

I posted about how I really only have one thing on my Christmas list this year. Remember what it is?! But, I also had a few random requests from family members and one request was a Sephora gift card. I love getting Sephora gift cards because I don't like spending much on make-up. I think they any girly-girl can appreciate it. I think it's tons of fun trying out new products 

I keep my make-up routine pretty simple... in the mornings, it takes me about 10 minutes to apply everything. I first apply a light moisturizer, add concealer where needed, brush powder over my entire face, a sweep of bronzer in the winter, swipe some blush and apply some mascara. Simple, easy, and quick is the way I like it. 

Well, above is what I plan on purchasing with my gift card (fingers crossed that this doesn't sell out!!). This is a great gift for anyone that is doing any last minute shopping... Just head on over to your Sephora store and pick it up. I love the YSL golden gloss. It has real flecks of gold in it (which is a little ridiculous and extravagant but hey, you need a little extravagance every once in a while). I have never tried any of the other products in this set, but am looking forward to it. I have heard that the Touche Eclat works wonders. 

Some of my other picks from Sephora for the last minute shoppers (ahem, boys)....

Any other Sephora suggestions or products you love? Let me know... I'm always looking to try something new! Have a fabulous day! 
 Yours, 
 sCe

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Pretty and Polished

Rarely do I save pictures from Pinterest or Tumblr. Sure, I'll re-pin, re-blog but rarely save them. This is one of the few that I have saved. I love the look of her perfectly coiffed hair, oversized handbag, statement necklace, modest dress, and oversized sunnies. 



I searched around for items that would recreate the look and think I found some great pieces. What do you think? I am definitely going to try and recreate this look. I will post pictures when I do! Have a fabulous day! Yours, 
 sCe

Monday, December 17, 2012

Christmas Eve Outfit

It is tradition for our family to go to Christmas Eve mass. After mass, we return to our house and family and friends come over for a big celebration. It is one of my favorite parties of the year... lots of hors d'ouevres and bubbly!

Per tradition, cCm, my mom and I always get dressed up for mass. I'm not going to spoil the outfit I am wearing, but will show some inspiration for my outfit! 

Several months ago, People Magazine published an entire issue featuring Jackie O. I spied her in this gorgeous yellow silk maxi skirt. 

You know how I have a thing for green (see post here)? I fell in love with this girl's maxi skirt while browsing Tumblr (not so much her stomach showing). 

And then to top it off, I spied Troy Polamalu's wife in a gorgeous green maxi skirt. 

Can you guess what I will be wearing come December 24th? What are you wearing Christmas Eve? What is your Christmas Eve tradition? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Hug a little tighter

 Source: Tumblr
Twas’ 11 days before Christmas, around 9:38 when 20 beautiful children stormed through heaven’s gate. Their smiles were contagious, their laughter filled the air. They could hardly believe all the beauty they saw there. They were filled with such joy; they didn’t know what to say. They remembered nothing of what had happened earlier that day. “where are we?” asked a little girl, as quiet as a mouse. “This is heaven” declared a small boy. “We’re spending Christmas at God’s house”. When what to their wondering eyes did appear, but Jesus, their savior, the children gathered near. He looked at them and smiled, and they smiled just the same. Then He opened His arms and He called them by name. And in that moment was joy, that only heaven can bring those children all flew into the arms of their King and as they lingered in the warmth of His embrace, one small girl turned and looked at Jesus’ face. And as if He could read all the questions she had He gently whispered to her, “I’ll take care of mom and dad. “then He looked down on earth, the world far below He saw all of the hurt, the sorrow, and woe, then He closed His eyes and He outstretched His hand, “Let My power and presence re-enter this land! “May this country be delivered from the hands of fools” “I’m taking back my nation. I’m taking back my schools! “Then He and the children stood up without a sound. “Come now my children let me show you around. “Excitement filled the space, some skipped and some ran. All displaying enthusiasm that only a small child can. And I heard Him proclaim as He walked out of sight, “in the midst of this darkness,” I AM STILL THE LIGHT. 
- Found floating around on social media 

Yours, 
sCe

Friday, December 14, 2012

Vampire Weekend

It's no secret that I love Vampire Weekend. I remember their first album came out when I was in high school and I had it on repeat for weeks. I think there are very few bands that you can put on no matter what mood you are in and no matter the season. Dave Matthews is the only other "listen at anytime" music that I can think of on the top of my head. 

I was listening to my VW playlist the other night on my hour commute home from work and I was realizing how much I love the lyrics to the songs too. Their music puts me in a great mood and reminds me of summertime. Here are my favorite lyrics from different VW songs! 

"As a young girl

Louis Vuitton
With your mother
On a sandy lawn"


"No excuse to be so callous

Dress yourself in bleeding madras
Charm your way across the Khyber Pass"
-M79

"Lights by the ocean

A westerly motion that moves California to sea
Eyes like a seagull"



Don't you know
That it's insane?
Don't you want to
Get out of Cape Cod?
Out of Cape Cod tonight?"


"The pin-striped men of morning

Are coming for to dance
With pure Egyptian Cotton

"Winter's cold is too much to handle
Pincher crabs that pinch at your sandals"

What are your favorite VW lyrics or songs? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Polka Dot PJ's

These pajamas might be the cutest in the entire world.

 Tar-jay even had a matching eye mask which made these PJ's even more fun! 

They have me feeling like Eloise

Have you shopped Target pajamas? These would make a great last minute holiday gift. I got a set for my mom, sister and I to all wear on Christmas morning! Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Gift Guide: Etsy

The holidays are right around the corner. Have you finished your shopping yet? I am nearly done, thank goodness! We are down to the wire with Christmas less than 2 weeks away, but here are some Etsy items that I have on my wish list.... 

This adorable notepad will make jotting down notes and making lists a lot more fun! 

I need a new 2013 desk calendar and I am in love with this calendar from Esty boutique, Barefoot Decor. 

I have always had a thing for a calling card.  It's similar to a business card but just has your personal information. It's so "old school" and ladylike. With letterpress and a Tiffany blue hue, you can't go wrong! 

I've seen the monogram home button idea floating around Pinterest and Tumblr for a while now, but have yet to try it out. It's a little much, but at the same time, I love it. Plus, the decals are super inexpensive, so why not?! 

I love needlepoint and this kit is great... and this is about as crafty as I get. For $14.50, you can make your own needlepoint key fob which is a lot less than Smathers and Branson or Tucker Blair! 

Lilly headbands galore! Etsy is full of sellers with adorable Lilly Pulitzer headbands! 

This monogram pen holder is the perfect thing to brighten your desk. I am thinking about getting one for my desk at work! For $10, you can't beat the price! 



Are you an Etsy shopper? What are your favorite Etsy picks? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Get Motivated

I am all about schedules and routines. Routines and schedules. I remember disliking the first week of classes at JMU because I didn't have a set routine. It took at least a week to figure out who you would eat with and when and where, when you would have study breaks, coffee breaks and nap breaks (oh boy, I wish I had nap breaks... ohhh college, I miss you so). Then it came down to actually finding the classrooms... and your professors' office (that was a real doozy). 

You can even see that on Summer Wind, I am all about routines. 99% of the time I post Monday-Friday, religiously. Each post goes live at 6:00am ET and giveaways are almost always on Monday mornings (hint, hint for those of you who haven't figured that out yet). 

I love blogging. I love that I can look back on the past 3 and a half years and see my interests shift and grow. I love that  if I wanted to, I can look back to my sophomore year of college and see what I was wearing any given day. 

I also love meeting people through blogging. Making connections with people all over the country who have similar interests is rewarding and inspiring.

I realize that blogging is not for everyone. It is a big commitment and requires a lot of time and effort. I get asked the same questions over and over again and one of the most frequently asked questions is "how do you keep it up?". 

Well, my blogging friends, here is my list of ways to stay motivated. This list doesn't necessarily just apply to bloggers, you can apply a lot of these ideas and tips to other aspects of life as well...especially for those of you going through finals right now (I hate to admit it, but I even miss finals... I guess I'm nerdy like that!)

Create a great playlist
This all depends on what you're doing. For blogging, I can listen to anything. When it came to studying for finals, I usually depended on Pandora jazz or symphony stations, although, my roommates can vouch that sometimes in September I would have Frank Sinatra Christmas playing. Music keeps me going. Recently, I have been blogging to the sounds of "Gone, Gone, Gone" by Phillips Philiips. It's catchy and I think the lyrics are perfect. 

Playlists are also great for people who aren't morning people (aka. ME). I get up super early and have an hour commute each morning. A catchy, upbeat and "fresh" playlist helps me to start my day happy and motivated. 

Make a list
Lists on lists on lists is my motto. I like to have a running list of blog ideas. I have one in the notes section of my phone, a "sticky note" on the desktop of my computer and a physical list that I keep in my Lilly planner. In college, I did the same thing. I wrote a daily list of what I had to accomplish. At work I always rely on lists as well. Plus, who doesn't love crossing things off of their lists?! 

Read a great quote
There is something about a quote that can really inspire you. I stockpile quotes and then browse through them when I am in need. 

Gain some perspective
This is really pertinent for college students going through finals. When you are miserable studying and writing papers at all hours of the day and night, there is a lot of pressure that can make you just want to quit. 
As a college student, you are so lucky to be attending college and getting a degree. Some people would give anything to be studying for finals and earning their degree.You have worked hard to get where you are fortunate enough to have such a great opportunity, so why not do the absolute best you can? 

Sometimes, I would much rather lounge and watch a movie after work than blog/answer e-mails... I think every blogger out there can attest to this. However, I think about the 880+ past posts I've written and think to myself... I've done it 880 times before, so why stop now

Take a break
Sometimes, letting your mind wander is when the best ideas come alive. At school, I would watch an episode of a show, have a snack or get some caffeine. Usually, now, my break is dinner (that sounds so boring, yikes!). 

Clean
I cannot get motivated or inspired if things are cluttered. I remember at school, mid-study session or paper writing session, I would break out the Lysol wipes and go to town. I once cleaned out my entire t-shirt bin and was known for changing my sheets... constantly. Afterwards, it felt so good and my space felt refreshed. Post-grad, I am always organizing and getting things ready for the next day. Every night right before I go to sleep, the feeling that things are clean/organized and ready to go for the next day has me convinced that I sleep 1000000x better. 

What keeps you motivated? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Monday, December 10, 2012

Gift Guide: Gifts Under $100

I've done a few Christmas Gift Guides but I have been receiving many requests to do an "Under $100" gift guide. To see past gift guides, see here, here or here

Host/Hostess

I'll Be at the Bar

Decanter/Ice Bucket/Apron
Tub/Monogram Glasses/Lilly Pulitzer Tray

These gifts are for the host or hostess with the most-est. Anyone can appreciate a good bar gift! Monograms and sports teams are a great way to make a gift personalized. I have been eyeing the Tuckernuck decanter for a while-- it is too perfect!

Sporty

Work out

Thomas Kelly Top/Thomas Kelly Legging
LuLuLemon Sports Bra/Nike Shorts/Sephora Hair ties
NeveDesigns Pullover/Gap Yoga Pants

I have the Thomas Kelly leggings and top and love them! I get so many compliments each and every time I am out and about! The LuLuLemon sports bra is perfect for the LuLu loving girl-- you can never have too many sports bras. The Nike shorts are perfect for the girl who has everything because you can never have too many norts! Neve Designs is a personal favorite of mine and so perfect for anyone that loves to hit the slopes. Yoga pants are another "you can never have too many". Want to add something extra special to the gift? Add a Tervis to complete the "sport" themed gift!

Girly Girl 

Girly
JoJo Loves You Bling/Be Designs Monogram Pillow/Kate Spade Bangle
C.Wonder Plate/Sleep Mask/Tarte Gift Set
Bobbi Brown Beach/Tory Burch Luggage Tag/ Lilly Pulitzer Make Up bag

I think this is my favorite gift grouping because I am definitely a girly girl. If you want to really give something special, get the Lilly make up case and fill it with your favorite make up!

For Your Boyfriend (or hubby)


Gents
Jack Spade Tartan Bow Tie/Smathers and Branson Needlepoint Wallet/Political Pillows
A Good Book/New Sperrys/Barbour Scarf
Fathead Wall Decals/Brooks Brothers Button Down/Saks Cashmere and Leather Gloves 

I'm running out of original guy gifts... my gentleman's gift guide list was just too good last year. Read all of the suggestions, here. I think the political pillows are perfect for the recent grad that needs some decor for his new apartment. The leather and cashmere gloves are another great post-grad gent gift because he needs to keep his hands warm while commuting to work! The Fathead decals are too much fun. I actually thought about getting cCm the Kentucky ones for her dorm, but decided against it. Just maybeee if you live with your guy, stay away from the Fatheads or they might end up in your living room. Yikes!

Have you started your holiday shopping? I am almost completely done and couldn't be happier! Do you have any gift suggestions? Have a fabulous day!
Yours,
sCe

Friday, December 7, 2012

Vineyard Vines

If you have checked out the most recent Vineyard Vines catalog, then you may have noticed yours truly on page 34! Katie from Let's Be Preppy let me know that I was in it and it was too fun to find myself in the catalog! I've loved hearing from everyone on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter/E-mail etc. letting me know that they found me! 
This is actually the second time I am in the catalog... the first time was summer 2009 when I submitted a picture of cCm and I (above... we are such babies!!! I was 18 and cCm was 14). This time, it is a picture of my big dLn and I... however, I am not sure how they got the picture because I didn't submit it... sneaky, sneaky, VV! 

I'm thinking that maybe I should submit this picture of cCm and I in the Georgetown Vineyard Vines! cCm and I do love our whale hats and Vineyard Vines, of course! 

Did you see my big and I in the catalog? Have you been in the Vineyard Vines catalog? If you have a picture of you or friends in Vineyard Vines, you can submit your photo, here! Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
sCe

Southern Tide on RueLaLa

Southern Tide is on RueLaLa today! Get the gentleman in your life something perfect for Christmas! Need an invite? Click, here.
Yours, 
sCe

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Brooks Brothers on RueLaLa

Brooks Brothers on RueLaLa today... I am hoping there are some good steals-- BB is one of my favorites! Need an invite? Click, here
Yours, 
sCe

New Years with Oasis

Oasis is an online clothing brand that is based across the pond,  in the UK, and I am obsessed. It is a toss up between Forever21 and Zara with trendy/fun pieces. Oasis recently sent me a piece which is too cute... but you will have to wait to see an OOTD until the spring because it is not appropriate for winter months.. I would freeze! 


When I was browsing through the site, I saw a TON of dresses that would be New Years Eve appropriate. New Years Eve is such a stressful time (am I the only one that thinks this?!). I think it is stressful because you have to come up with plans that are out of the ordinary and coordinate with all your friends (usually it involves traveling and hotel of some sort which is another pain)... but in the end it is all worth it and in my opinion, the best holiday of the year! I think the fun starts even before New Years Eve because there is nothing I love more than picking out a fancy cocktail dress. NYE s that one day of the year where you can get totally glammed up in your sparkly best. 

Here are my picks from Oasis for New Years Even frocks (plus they are very affordable which is an added bonus!). 





Aren't they fun? Have you shopped Oasis before? What are you wearing for New Years Even? Have a fabulous day!
Yours, 
sCe
 

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