ZARA High

 



I will admit... When I score an amazing deal, I get a little high.  A little pep in my step.  A little tingly excitement.  I'm then faced with the decision, do I (A) keep my little secret to myself or (B) share my secret with the world.  As a Fashion Blogger, I feel as though I have an obligation to share.  There's no way I can keep my ZARA shopping experience a secret. 

Here's what happened.  I'm in Miami vacationing with my family and my husband must have been in a generous mood (or just sick of the same 2 dresses I was rotating every night) and said, "Honey, you go into ZARA and pick yourself out a fabulous dress for tonight".  I know exactly what that means... Translation: "Chelsea, go in the store that you've been talking about all week and I'll watch the kids, but you only have ten minutes, so hurry"! 

I burst into ZARA with more excitement than I could contain.  I skipped from one rack to another touching everything in my path.  Do I want something suede?  Do I want a boho feel?  Ooooo... I see sparkle.  Ohmigosh, is that a jumpsuit?  All of a sudden I feel completely overwhelmed and look down at my watch.  I have three minutes left.  Three minutes!  I knew that if I took this opportunity to shop for granted, the opportunity wouldn't be granted again.  So, I had to just grab something and hope it wasn't over my (self-set) $100 budget. 

There it was.  An off-white leather detail trimmed short dress.  It was perfect.  Only one?!  And there's no tag?!  Come on.  I don't have time to try it on and I have no idea how much it costs, but my watch and my instincts said, "buy it".  I walked up to the registers and told the sales associate there was no tag on the dress.  He gave me a funny look and asked where I found it.  I told him it was randomly on a rack and asked if it was for sale.  He told me that they got a whole shipment of these highly sought after dresses and they were ALL (or at least he thought) damaged.

His exact words were, "GIIIIRRRRLLLL, I don't know where you found this dress, but it's your lucky day.  I've had women coming in here for a week looking for this exact dress and you're about to get the only one we have for... $12.00".  My jaw dropped.  I tinkled in my pants a little, slammed $12 down on the counter and skipped out of the store.  My husband was impressed that I was within my allotted ten minute window and asked what I got.  I pulled the dress out and he immediately asks, "How much did that cost?  It looks expensive".

It is expensive!  Or at least it was expensive.  I don't know how the heck I scored that dress.  Maybe the shopping Gods were on my side that day.  Maybe all that goodness I put out in the world everyday was paying me back.  Maybe ZARA just made a mistake, but whatever the reason, I got the biggest shopping high that day and I knew I had to share it with the world.

Dress: ZARA
Heels: Steve madden

Customer Service & A Crop Top

I've worked in many aspects of customer service.  It's a thankless job, really. But if you care, the customer will sense and appreciate that.  The more I get bad customer service, the more I appreciate when a retailer goes out of their way to make me happy.  I recently had a slight meltdown over a crop top and was saved by a very calm and kind boutique owner with incredible customer service. 

Boutique of Molly, a boutique that I shop frequently for "of the moment" fashion pieces, tracked down the crop top for me after I had missed the delivery.  I panicked when the delivery driver didn't leave a note telling me which company I needed to request redelivery with.  Boutique of Molly (from overseas, mind you) was able to find my package and tell me exactly where to find it.  I fetched that highly anticipated pink shiny package and as always, Boutique of Molly didn't disappoint. 

Although, I could have been disappointed if I hadn't been contacted by Boutique of Molly after placing my order to inform me that the top I just ordered runs small.  They asked my US size and determined that one size larger than I ordered would probably fit better.  They happily adjusted my order.  I've never experienced a retailer that truly cares more about their customer's satisfaction more than Boutique of Molly.   

 

The said crop top is definitely going to be a wardrobe staple in my closet all Spring and Summer.  Just like Boutique of Molly said, a size up was perfect.  One thing about highly revealing clothes is that if you're showing lots of skin (especially your midriff), you don't want it to be tight, as well.  Crop tops are all about balance and this one has exactly that.   

 



 

When sporting a crop top, one of the most important things to keep in mind is that you will be baring your belly.  The best way to show off your new Spring abs is by pairing your crop top with bottoms that don't pinch, bunch or roll.  A high waisted pair of denim cut offs, a pair of black jeans with some stretch, a shirred maxi skirt are all perfect compliments to a crop top.  Don't forget something to layer over your top when you walk into a nice restaurant, the library, school, etc.  Basically anywhere that you don't want to reveal too much.  Dressing respectfully in certain establishments is essential.

 

 

A huge thank you to Boutique of Molly for understanding that customer service absolutely matters.  I have been a loyal customer of theirs for a few years and will stay that way.  Their pieces are well made, always fit perfectly (thanks to their attention to detail) and are always fashionably on point.  I highly suggest visiting their site HERE for all their incredible pieces at reasonable prices.  I also want to thank Heather Reed for modeling the crop top for me on a freezing cold day in Maine.  The girl never complained once as I dragged her to all the fun graffiti spots in 30 degrees.

 

Heather is wearing:

Crop Top: Boutique of Molly

Duster Sweater: Urban Outfitters

Black Jeans: American Eagle

Sneakers: Nike

Sunglasses: Sunglass Hut

 







Little White Dress

We've all heard of the little black dress (LBD).  Every woman should own one.  It's their go-to dress when you get that last minute call that your friend needs a plus one... tonight!  You throw it on and know your look is on point.  Personally, I own at least three little black dresses.  All with different variations, depending on the occasion and my mood.  If you don't own at least one little black dress, call me and I'll help you find the perfect one.

Although black is universally flattering, a little white dress is going to turn heads...  And I've found the perfect one.  It's from ASPIRA CLOTHING and it's going to be a staple in my closet this spring and summer.  This dress fit perfectly.  There are two features to this dress that make it completely unique to anything you'll find at your local boutiques.  For starters, the long sleeves give the fitted short dress balance.  Short sleeves or a sleeveless look would make this dress too revealing.  To add an element of fun and excitement, the inverted triangle cut out is everything. 



ASPIRA CLOTHING not only has an incredible selection of fashionable apparel, but they also have a full selection of accessories to complete your look.  The owner got wind that I was a Fashion Blogger and sent a few accessories along with my order (check out those white cat eye sunglasses), all wrapped in beautiful gold packaging.  I will be ordering from ASPIRA CLOTHING regularly, and can't wait to feature each piece as they arrive. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing a little white dress.  If it's above the knee, make sure the dress has a sleeve for balance so it's not too revealing.  Make sure the dress is lined (this dress from ASPIRA is made from a high quality material and was lined in all the necessary places).  The last thing you want is any body part, scar, tattoo, etc. peaking through.  Let's keep a little to the imagination.  Lastly, consider an embellishment, a cut out, a ruffle, something to make your little white dress a unique conversation piece.

You're going to turn heads this spring in a little white dress.  Find your perfect style and wear it all season.  Don't forget to check out ASPIRA CLOTHING to score my little white dress and many more fresh styles.



Bag Obsession: STEFKA

I'm rough on bags.  There's no two ways about it.  I'm always on the go and a flimsy purse just won't cut it.  So I'm always looking for something with structure, strength and of course it has to be fashionable.  I have found a line of bags that not only meet all my requirements, they absolutely exceed.  Call it a "Bag Obsession: STEFKA Bags". 

 

STEFKA Bags are designed and handmade in the USA.  To us Americans, that means everything.  STEFKA has cross body bags, hand bags, mini totes, etc. and they're all incredible.  I know I could throw everything I need into a STEFKA Bag and be hands free for the rest of the day.  The quality and design are incredible and every bag transitions perfectly from your day to night look.  I want one in every color and design. 

 

Right now, you can pre-order your STEFKA Bag on their site.  They're affordably priced and in production as we speak right in New York City.  Read more about STEFKA Bags and their designer:

 

Stefka handbags are meticulously designed with attention to every detail. 

Stephanie's inspiration from structure and modern architecture is obvious. 

Our customers are women who appreciate clean, modern lines and a timeless look. 

However each bag features an intricate detail to set Stefka apart from the rest.

Previously hand-making all of her pieces, she decided it was time to take Stefka to 

the next level and set out to find a manufacturer. In keeping a promise to herself she 

wanted to keep manufacturing in America, even better, in NYC.

Stephanie has deep roots in New York City, her grandmother and mother were born and 

raised in Manhattan. Needless to say, a love of fashion, architecture, and design have been 

ever present in her life. Learning to sew at a very young age, watching her mother design 

clothing, drawing, painting and being creative all her life has played a very important part 

in bringing Stefka to be.

Inspiration for the collection comes mostly from a love of structure and organized clean lines. 

Wanting the bags to be timeless and something you can grab from your closet for years and 

years. However Stephanie likes to keep things interesting and more importantly, original by 

adding little details that are unexpected, be it the way the straps are connected or the 

silhouette of the bag itself.

Stefka handbags are made using a heavy weight leather, that will hold up the structure 

commanded by each design. The type of leather used is mostly vegetable tanned leather 

which only gets better with age.

Stefka is a new brand formed from a love of design and well made products. Stephanie's 

mission is to use American manufacturers, and to continue to produce classic pieces 

that can be used everyday, be it the beach, travel, shopping, brunch, date night etc etc.  













YOGA

I've been doing yoga for about 20 years and it's still my favorite form of exercise.  I know what you're thinking, she's been doing yoga for 20 years so she must be really good at it, right?  Nah.  I actually suck at yoga.  No matter how much I practice, my balance and strength suck.  So, I'm still doing my beginner yoga tapes, in hopes that someday I will get better.  I avoid classes, because it's pretty embarrassing when you fall over doing a simple warrior pose (which I do every time).  But just because I suck at yoga doesn't mean I'm going to stop doing it, because you have to admit, yoga pants are so hot right now.



Don't get me wrong.  Lace yoga pants and bralettes are not the only reason I work out.  Yoga and meditation help my body internally as much as externally.  If I didn't take 30-45 minutes a day to clear my mind and get my heart rate up, I'd probably be mentally and physically ill.  All that we put into our body, it's important to focus as much on letting some of it out too.  If I'm not doing yoga, I'm walking.  My favorite route to walk is straight down Congress Street in Portland, Maine.  There's as much mental stimulation as there is physical.  I also love to ride my bicycle (Townie) through the City, although every summer I have an incident of a driver not paying attention and getting almost killed.  Put your cell phones down and pay attention, PEOPLE!!



But let's get to the exciting stuff.  Workout wear.  Honestly, if it were appropriate to wear loungewear 24/7, I probably would.  Maybe it has something to do with playing sports the first 18 years of my life, maybe it's the stretchy material but something about a good pair of yoga pants and a sheer t-shirt makes me feel like I could do anything.  What I SHOULD be doing in that outfit is working out, showering and then putting "real-life" clothes on.  I mean, a lazy Sunday afternoon, running errands in the morning, you get a workout wear pass.  But that's really about it.  Workout wear is for working out. 



Although, that could be motivation to workout more.  Love your new tennis skirt?  Play tennis everyday that week.  Love your new Nike running sneakers?  Run, girl, run!  There are some fashion rules to keep in mind when buying workout wear.  Make sure that your stretchy pieces don't pinch, bunch or roll.  If it does, it's the wrong size/fit.  There's nothing worse than constantly tugging or pulling at your clothes while you're trying to get your sweat on.  Bralettes are for low to no impact.  If you're doing anything that might make your boobs bounce, go for a sports bra with lots of support.  Breathable and absorbable materials will make sweating a lot more attractive.  Keep it tight and wear it right.

Lace Yoga Pants: RoseWe
Olive Bralette: Forever 21



Tried FABLETICS Yet?

I've read a lot about subscription apparel companies.  A lot of good, a lot of bad and very little first hand testimonials.  I first heard of FABLETICS (an activewear subscription line launched by Kate Hudson) a couple years ago.  In the beginning, the reviews weren't great.  The complaints weren't so much with the quality of the activewear as much as the subscription process.  Customers were being charged when they hadn't even purchased anything.

Let me explain a little how their subscription works.  Every month, you select your merchandise and it's shipped to you. The amount you pay is clearly stated and no subscription fee is charged.  BUT, if you forget to select merchandise that month or you forget to "opt out" and a "subscription fee" will be charged.  Disgruntled customers were outraged (and voicing it on social media) that they couldn't get their money back after they had forgotten to "opt out" one month.

I went on the FABLETICS site to see for myself, if there seemed to be any sort of scam or trick.  In my opinion, it's black and white (or at least the big bold text is).  There's no trickery.  No scam.  FABLETICS clearly states that if you do not want to make a purchase that month, just click on one button and you won't pay a cent.  Pretty clear cut if you ask me.  Not to mention that most sports bras are $25 at any athletic apparel store.  FABLETICS is offering you an entire workout/loungewear outfit for that price.  Pretty sweet, if you ask me. 



But don't ask me.  Ask Heather Reed*, a dear friend (check out those guns), who recently subscribed to FABLETICS.  Here's her testimonial and product review below:



Hi! My name is Heather Reed and I am writing to promote the Fabletics Subscription. I first came across Fabletics by scrolling through my Facebook. The advertisement jumped out at me because in bold print I read, "Your first outfit ONLY $25.00." I thought I can't go to the Nike Outlet and buy an athletic top for less than $25.00, it was a steal!

After I created my account a quick survey popped up asking me several questions about the styles I feel most comfortable in. In my opinion that's a great trait for the company because I didn't have to waste my time scrolling through pages of outfits that didn't suit my comfort. Almost right away I found the outfit I knew I'd be happy in! I will say I went out of my comfort zone in choosing my pants, but in my opinion many people go out of their comfort zone everyday when they exercise, so why not look the part too and feel good about it!

From the time I ordered my outfit to the time it came in was about two weeks, which was the time frame they predicted to me. I immediately tried my outfit on when it arrived, not only was I absolutely IN LOVE with the color pattern of the pants and how it matched with the top but with the way the pants hugged my hips, not cut into my hips, and how beyond comfortable the top was.

Yes, fabletics is a subscription and to be honest I have never been apart of a subscription, therefore I don't know much about them. However, what I recently found out was the company allows you to skip months and not be charged. For instance I skipped this month because I really didn't see anything that jumped out at me, but I also I didn't want to cancel my subscription because I don't know what next months line looks like yet. Also, at anytime you no longer feel Fabletics is for you, you can cancel your subscription.

I am thrilled about my outfit and I am very satisfied with the company! I would recommend this line not only to people who exercise, but to people who enjoy being comfortable as well!

*A huge thank you to Heather who modeled her FABLETICS outfit and wrote an honest testimonial for me.  No one was paid in this product review/blog post.

 



Unique Jewelry at CherryPick

I'm always in search of unique jewelry you can't find anywhere else.  I love it when someone asks, "Where did you get that necklace?  It's so different."  In my opinion, different is a compliment.  I'm not the type of person who is shy to divulge all my shopping secrets, so I'm going to share one of my favorite new jewelry sites that has the most amazing selection of unique jewelry.  It's called CHERRYPICK, and I'm in love.

From delicate to statement necklaces, studs, cuffs, stacking rings, you name it.  Their Spring collection is filled with my favorite double sided earrings.  You get as much statement in the front as the back and they're all interchangeable.  You can't get any more unique than making your own earring combination, or stacking bold with delicate bracelets.  One of my favorite ways to make a jewelry statement is just grab two stud earrings that don't match and see how many people notice.

If being bold in your jewelry isn't your thing, CHERRYPICK has an incredible selection of delicate metals with natural stones.  The jewelry trend goes one of two ways right now.  Either extremely bold with large gems and stones and metals or the exact opposite and staying simple and delicate.  When I wear my delicate pieces, layering is everything.  I wear 2, 3, 4 simple chains (all different lengths) layered on top of each other.  A hand full of delicate rings all worn on different fingers in different places is a fun way to dress up naked fingers. 

 

My favorite trend right now in jewelry is the "over the top" statement pieces.  This incredible statement necklace can be worn in a million different ways.  Layered over a cocktail dress, under a collar of your favorite blouse, with a plain white t-shirt.  The possibilities are endless.  It does take a bit of jewelry bravery the first time you wear a piece like this, but once you get endless compliments and everyone wants to know where you got it, you'll want more and more CHERRYPICK pieces just like it.

 

Even better, I'm a CHERRYPICK Ambassador, so I can offer my followers 15% OFF their entire order!  It's pretty amazing that their prices are already incredible, but with the cherry on top of 15% off, you'll want to shop CHERRYPICK over and over.  Just use coupon code CHELSEAK15 to score my discount.  Happy jewelry shopping.