by | Apr 19, 2014 | Fashion |
Hello Bubbly Readers,
It’s Holy Week and Easter (Resurrection Sunday). It is time for me to take a moment to meditate on what Jesus did for me and the world.
The Camilla Olson team recently contacted me about collaborating on a product review one of the items from the designer’s current collection. After looking through the assortment of wardrobe-building pieces, I selected the Bubble dress to sample and to write a honest review.
Camilla’s Designs:
Fashion for Busy Women | 30 Looks from 9 Washable Pieces
“While I love to look at the latest fashion designs and styling tips, I never thought they spoke to me, and my life. We are designing for busy women, who understand the need to dress well, effortlessly, and whom fashion designers and retailers generally ignore. Our designs are appropriate for both work and social situations. Pieces are easy to care for and can be grouped so 9 pieces will give 30 looks. Rather than providing basics, we focus on luscious fabrics, flattering design, and interesting details. All our work is sewn in California using both domestic and imported fabrics.” Camilla Olson on www.CamillaOlson.com
Camilla is a graduate of the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. I have also taken few classes from the Academy in the Fashion Merchandising program. Camilla graduated with a MFA in Fashion and Textile Design. Her designs have been shown at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York. She started her own company in 2011 and has not looked back. She is a very talented lady.
The bubble dress that I sampled is 65% Rayon, 23% Polyester and 12% Spandex. The pointe dress has 3/4′ length sleeves, perfect for showing off bracelets.
The Care for the dress is Machine wash cold. Lay flat to dry.
The dress is made in America! Gotta love that!
JT styling the dress with her potay necklace
The dress has a bubble hem. The structure and detail of the dress flatters my figure very well. The fabric of the dress is a substantial weight. However, I prefer wearing a slip shaper underneath for a smooth line.
The dress would be a work horse in your closet and a chameleon because it can be worn with so many different pieces.
In the picture below, I have styled the dress with my own ivory leather jacket and pink boucle jacket. I could wear these looks to church, the office or to a special event. The options are mine.
The Bubble dress styled with a leather jacket (left) and a Boucle jacket (right).
Wearing the dress alone is a treat as well. Here is another picture of how I styled the dress with my potay necklace and Coach magenta purse.
Effortless and easy going dressing for a night out with the hubby.
The Bubble Dress retails for $155.00. I know at that price point that it would be an investment purchase for many people. However, Camilla is giving my readers a 20% discount.
When placing your order on Camilla Olson’s website, please include this promo code: <BLOGGERLOVE> to receive your discount.
I received this dress as a sample. After I styled it and finished this review, I mailed it back to Camilla Olson.
Stay tuned for a post about the Designer, Camilla Olson. I think you enjoy learning more about her.
I have to share a couple cute pics of my doggies. They are always on the photo shoot with me.
Gio and Vinny on the set
Post linked to
Not Dead Yet Style
by | Apr 12, 2014 | Blogging / Technology, Fashion |
Hi Elegant Readers,
On Thursday evening, I went to an exclusive St. Louis Fashion Week VIP Blogger Lounge at the Scape Restaurant in the Central West End. My hubby, co-contributor, Jay really did not know what to expect because this was our first time being at a local blogger event. 15 vendors and 50 bloggers were invited to attend this exclusive event. This was a chance for hubby and I to get to know some of the brands in our local community and get a feel for how they envision their business by collaborating with bloggers.
At events like this I always make sure I have plenty of business cards and press kits handy.
Doors opened at 6pm. Jay and I were a little early so we checked in. I had time to take a picture of this awesome Chihuly artwork that was located in the lobby of the restaurant. We then walked around for a little bit and then we went back upstairs to attend the event.
Bellestyle
The first vendor that we talked to was Heather Krako of Bellestyle. Heather is a jewelry designer who has designed jewelry for Los Angeles fashion week, St. Louis Fashion Week, Good Morning America, Glamour and many more. She beautiful pieces are in high demand. She was very informative about her inspirations and how it truly is a joy for her to create because she is a talented artist. Please look at her jewelry pieces on www.bellestyle.com.
She was so kind that she gave each blogger a free bracelet and a 40% discount on a purchase of any of her items. I chose this one that has a crown charm as my free bracelet.
I purchase a Arizona Turquoise and silver necklace that is beautiful and elegant, but oh so chic.
Dimvaloo
Next we talked with Kate Duryea, the owner of the newly opened Dimvaloo Active Living. In her store, she exclusively carries Australia’s Premier Activewear label. I was able to talk to her about the creator of the activewear Lorna Jane and how the fabric doesn’t pill, durable and last for years.
Dimvaloo top and pants to my left
I will definitely look into this line because its a plus to find activewear that is good quality and sustainable. She was very kind and informative and I am interested in trying out the active wear.
Dimvaloo.com
Soft Surroundings
We stopped at the Soft Surroundings booth and was given coupons and a sample of the Aya Blu fragrance.
I had a my iPad with me so I could show them how I styled a recent post with two skirts from Soft Surroundings. Thank the Lord for having a hotspot it helped so much with showing my blog. They didn’t have any of their clothes at the event, however the latest catalog was available for the taking.
Soft Surroundings ayablu
Triflare
This company has the American dream written all over it. Andrea Robertson, CEO of Triflare created a company that designs active wear for Triathletes. She recently landed a contract to design the swimsuits for the synchronized swimmers at the 2016 Olympic Games. She was award a $50,000 arch grant to start up her company and Alive magazine wrote an article about her and her company. She was so informative about her line and that the company is eighteen months old, so everything write now is so exciting.
Her designs are so cool. When my hubby and I talked with her, she discussed how she works with another designer that use to work at Boeing and specialized in mapping . Her expertise balances out the designs in a swimsuit. This important part of Triflare can make you look slimmer or give you curves, if you need them, it’s all in mapping. This designer tidbit works across the board to give the illusion of looking slimmer of adding curves if you need them.
Triflare suits
I work out and would love to get one of this suit. Robertson is working on moving her business to St. Louis and I can’t wait. I know she is designing mainly for triathletes; but I can see a work out collection in the horizon.
She gave me and the other bloggers who stopped by her display a great bag with a bold pattern, just like her suits.
This post will be in two parts, so stay tuned.
by | Apr 6, 2014 | Fashion |
Hi Elegant Readers,
Blessings and an overabundance of joy to you.
I am honored to collaborate again with MarketPlace Handwork of India, I support its mission wholeheartedly.
(Click Here, Here and Here for my previous collaborations with MarketPlace!)
Excerpt from MarketPlace Handwork Of India’s Mission
Empowered with independence and self-confidence, these women become agents of change. And they find the courage, with the support of their cooperative members, to fight for what they believe in. Asserting themselves as decision-makers in their families, they have kept their children in school and out of early marriages, thus ensuring them a better future. They have also become social activists, using the skills they have learned in the workplace to improve conditions in their communities.
In MarketPlace’s comprehensive and creative organization, economic development is only the first step for these brave and resourceful women.”
MarketPlace asked me to choose a specific piece from its Spring 2014 Collection and style the garment with my own flair.
With many wonderful garments to choose from, I selected the Saloni Tunic. The description of the Saloni Tunic from the catalog says,
“You won’t believe the artisan details in this breezy top -softest voile is gently pleated and embroidered for a stunning tone-on-tone effect. Half placket features hand crochet loops and shell buttons. Three-quarter sleeves are slightly flared, with a wide hem designed to be turned back.”
The label on the Saloni Tunic says, “Diginity Not Charity.” The tunic is handmade by NIRMAAN. The tag on the garment says, ” it is the mission of Market Place to provide a non-exploitative supportive work environment, thereby ensuring dignity to the artisans.”
Fabric Details: 100% Cotton
Care: Cold wash and Separately line dry
This tunic is soft and glided on my body. It is versatile and a complete chameleon. My plan was to put this Tunic to the test and work it in styles that no one would ever imagine could be pulled off successfully.
Here goes! I am jumping in full force so lets go!
The tunic is long and comes to my mid hip. It has a very relaxed fit, my first Saloni style was with My Soft Surroundings silk and metallic forest green skirt with matching self belt. This skirt has always been a challenge to style because of its color and shape. I thought myself, “Why not style the skirt with the tunic?” After trying it on and checking it out in the mirror, I thought, “It worked! It worked! Eureka!”
The color of the Tunic blended perfectly and added a splash of vibrancy. The belt gave a cinched-in look and added definition to my waist. The belt did not give it a matchy-matchy look. It flowed very well.
The tunic is beautiful and so soft and relaxed.
The Saloni Tunic style two is with a Soft Surroundings bubble purple metallic striped skirt. My favorite beagle Gio was my side, keeping an eye over the land. The colors coordinated beautifully and I felt very comfortable. I said “comfortable” — you know, the bad word in the fashion industry. Fashion can be chic and comfortable. This tunic and skirt combo proves that fact.
Do you notice how the pleats in the front of the tunic do not flair out but lay flat beautifully?
MarketPlace Handwork of India
The front and back of the tunic has pleats that glide across and lay flat as well. The tunic is not boxy and adds shape to the body.
I am jumping for joy over how carefree and beautiful this top looks and feels.
The Saloni Tunic style three is for a more casual Friday look, or a date night with the hubby, or shopping on a Saturday afternoon.
Pairing this tunic with my NYDJ jeans proved to be the perfect ensemble.
This was such a cool outfit. The tunic and the straight leg jeans gave a beautiful balance.
Thank you MarketPlace Handwork of India for the opportunity to style this lovely Saloni tunic.
Please note: BubblingwithEleganceandGrace.com was gifted this tunic. This post is JT’s honest opinions and reviews.
Post linked to:
Not Dead Yet Style
by | Mar 28, 2014 | Accessories, Fashion |
Hello Lovely People,
Riding a horse is so relaxing and enjoyable for me. Horses are beautiful and intelligent animals. I have always wanted to own a couple to train on my ranch one day. The horses and my ranch are dreams of mine. Taking lessons on horse-ridings is the first step to make this happen.
Are you starting riding lessons?
Horse-riding is an exhilarating pastime but one that require patience and preparation as you get started. When prepared, it’s a hobby that is safe and fun, but there are some essential pieces of kit that you will require before you’ve even set foot on a horse. Depending on where you are planning to have lessons, some of this equipment may be available for hire but when you can afford to purchase your own, all of the following are a brilliant investment to your horse-riding future:
Helmet
If there’s one item that it is crucial you own, it’s a good fitting helmet. Whilst a number of these horse riding essentials are based on your comfort, a helmet is vital to your safety and well-being should you fall or be knocked off your horse. Though you are likely to remain safe with sensible riding guidance, horses are animals after all and cannot always be predicted. Being bucked off a horse is rare but extremely dangerous so keep yourself protected from the worst case scenario.
Riding boots
Riding boots, or country boots as they may also be called, provide exceptional grip in the stirrups while riding – another important safety aspect and a crucial factor in best ride performance. If you can’t afford your own riding boots when starting out and they are not available for hire at your stable, opt for a comfortable pair of Wellington boots instead. Trainers are not sensible as they are usually two wide and can get stuck, a real riding hazard.
Body protector
This garment is more of an optional layer but it’s highly recommended for anxious beginners or younger riders. A body protector does just as its name suggests – provides full body protection in the event you do fall.
Jodhpurs
Even if the stable you are attending for lessons allows riders to wear jeans, jodhpurs are the go-to riding trouser and a great choice from the start. Jeans may be practical for a variety of everyday activities, but when it comes to horse riding you will find them uncomfortable. If you don’t fancy washing your trousers regularly, make sure you opt for a dark coloured design that will not show up all the muck that will inevitably gather during your sessions.
Gloves
New riders can suffer quite badly with blisters at first, as delicate hands are not used to gripping tough reins. You may like to wear gloves to prevent this happening, or just to keep your hands more warm and comfortable on an early morning trek.
Close fitting top or jumper
It doesn’t really matter what you opt for on your upper body but choose something that is not too baggy. You will find riding that big harder if your shirt or jumper is flapping around in the breeze and it can even frighten some horses.
Water
Remember, you might not be the one running round on the field but horse riding is energetic work. Make sure you take a bottle of water with you to keep on the side should you need a quick refresher.
* promotional content *
by | Mar 26, 2014 | Fashion |
Hi Lovely Readers,
Spring is here but it feels like winter. The temperature was a high of 40, so not breaking out with the shorts yet. I had this maxi skirt from Susan Graver on QVC and wanted to style it for this type of weather. I added a shirt, sweater, tights and my ankle boots.
The maxi skirt has a wonderful print that will work with so many different colors. I chose my magenta cable knit sweater and shirt underneath. This maxi skirt works for all seasons. The weight of the maxi is not thin, it’s a good weight for cool months. Also, the shape of the maxi slims the hips and that’s always a good thing in my book.
The Style
Shirt – Lady Van Huesen
Sweater – Charter Club
Maxi Skirt – Susan Graver from QVC
Tights – Silkies
Ankle Leather boots – Earth Brands
On another note, I am doing some spring transformations in my sitting room. The ivory dresser to the left (Behind me in the picture below) I want to paint a different color to coordinate in my sitting room. I have had the dresser since I was a child and it’s time for an update.
If you have a maxi skirt, try rocking it in the cool months, you may be surprised how versatile it can be.
by | Mar 25, 2014 | Accessories, Fashion, Haircare |
Hi Lovely Readers,
I actually saw snow flurries today, so you will be seeing a winter post this week for sure. I am a spring baby, however fall and winter is my favorite seasons.
When I bought this sweater from Old Navy a couple of years ago, I thought the owl sweater was so cute. I wore the sweater with a black Macy’s shirt underneath for a layering effect. The sweater was on clearance at the time and I couldn’t resist purchasing it. It was less than ten dollars, a real deal.
My Jeans are from NYDJ (Not Your Daughters Jeans) and the fit is slimming and the material is very soft. I really am self-conscious of my thighs, so finding jeans have been difficult for me. I don’t have the model figure and I bet many of a modeling agents would say what the world is she modeling clothes on a blog for the world to see. I see the magazines that have these beautiful statuesque women who model the clothes in Vogue, Elle and have legs that go a mile long. Do I have mile long legs? No, but I don’t answer to anyone but God. He created me and if I can get on here and do articles about how I style my outfits; hopefully I can reach out to people to let them know that God made everyone beautiful in His eyes and there is no need to compare.
Okay, I am stepping down from my soapbox.
My Born boots are from DSW and they really give me a uniqueness and a style all my own. And my handbag is my trusty Kathy Van Zeeland that works with any ensemble.
I have been embracing my curls for almost five years now. I bought the earrings below at a hair show in Chicago. The earrings are a little heavy but I had to get them because the words on the earrings speak volumes.
My curls are defined and look pretty good. I have been without a relaxer for almost five years and I still have my moments when it comes to certain products. I may try something new or I think my hair routine is okay and I am like what happened with that. It is a journey and a good one that I am glad to be a part of. My hair is thicker, longer and healthier for not having my hair chemical relaxed. I have nothing against my relaxed sisters, but I am speaking for only myself because I decided to go natural in June 2009.
I had no idea my hair was this curly.
The added accessories finish the look.
This outfit is a favorite of mine because I added a bit of whimsy. The owl sweater looks youthful without looking childish. There is a difference between looking youthful and looking childish. Having a youthfulness about you creates energy, joy and excitement. I don’t want to look childish, for the simple fact I am not trying to look like I am 15.
However, I want to be energetic, chic and stylish. Another added bit of charm is a smile.
The accessories:
Bracelet: Studio Barse
Tigers Eye Bead Bracelet
Emerald Green Ring: Berricle
Drusy Ring
Handbag: Kathy Van Zeeland
Boots: Born
Sneakers: BCBG
Fragrance: Fabulous by Isaac Mizrahi
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