by | Jul 21, 2013 | Fashion |
What do you do if you do not have a basement? Where can you find cheap and affordable storage space? What if you are looking for extra storage if you are moving into a new home?
I do not have a lot of space to store things in my house, so my husband and I really have to make wise decisions when it comes to the design flow of our home. I was reading an article from HGTV.com on 10 Smart Design Ideas for Small Spaces because I want my space to look beautiful but not over crowded.
Speaking of working with a small space, my doggie is fearful of thunderstorms. I am believing he is overcoming this fear. He took all my clothes down one day while I was at work because he heard thunder.

I know he was trying to seek protection from the thunder so I did not scold him, I hugged him. Did I say he took all my clothes down!
It took me a while to get all my clothes and shoes organized the way I had them because my closet space is small. The pictures came out a little blurred but you can see that my clothes are not where they are suppose to be.

Top five ways to make a small space appear larger
1. Clutter: Keeping rooms free of clutter and keeping it organized will always make a room look larger. If your dog’s toys are throughout the house and on the floor, it gives off the appearance of a small space. It is amazing how seeing the floor or an area rug can open up the room and give it dimension.
2. Large furniture / too much furniture: If you have large pieces of furniture or several smaller pieces of furniture in a room, please be mindful of how much space that it takes up. Too many pieces in one room can overpower the room and make it appear smaller. Consider the scale of the size before purchasing new furniture. If you are not able to move freely around the room because the furniture is getting in the way, consider removing one piece and reorganize the room. Look for the piece that is least used or not functional and remove it. See how the room flows without that piece. You may never even know that it is not there.
3. Going through mail and magazines: Sort through the mail as soon as you get it. Recycle any junk or unwanted mail. If you don’t need it, get rid of it. Place any bills or important documents into desk drawer or a file cabinet to be dealt with at a later time. Place any magazines, catalogues or reading materials in a location that is out of the way; but easy to reach when you are ready to look at it.
4. If you have things you do not need anymore, give away or have a yard sale: If you are not wearing those clothes anymore or you have not using that treadmill, consider putting it in a yard sale or donating it to charity if it is in good working condition. Sort through your clothes and look for anything that do not remember buying, pieces that are no longer your current size or items that are no longer in the best condition. These are pieces that you can recycle, give away or sell. If you have items in your house that you do not use, like a treadmill, or if they are being used in completely different purpose, like a treadmill that is being used as a coat rack; it is time to consider getting rid of it.
5. Consider putting your extra items in storage: If you are running out of room, but you can not see yourself getting rid of that extra furniture, the treadmill or your extra clothes, and you may have to consider putting your items storage. If you need to have quick access to the items, you may need to consider one that is close to your house. If you have antiques, you may need to consider one that is temperature controlled. If you have so many things you just can not part with, you may need to consider one that has a lot of square footage.
If you have a small space, there are options for you to be able to enjoy it.

by | Jul 15, 2013 | Accessories, Fashion |
Happy Summer my Elegant Readers!
It has been hot lately; but this dress is even hotter. Ha Ha!

London Times
Dooney and Bourke
I added a green blouse for work because even though it is hot outside; it can get cool in the office. I am not complaining I just add my little shirt jacket over my dress and I am set.

Florals are a burst of color for summer. Every time I see bright colors it brings a smile to my face.

JT in London Times dress
Macy’s, in the Railway Exchange Building that opened in 1924, is closing. In a future post I will right more about the closing of the downtown destination. All their items are 40 to 60 percent off. I saw this dress and had to have it. I had never seen anything remotely like it. The detail work of the stitching of the garment is superb. I could of size down with this dress; but that’s okay. It is more of a relaxed fit. The flowers look like a vintage garden; but the blooms are not overpowering. The white background softens the colors and makes this dress a tried and true favorite of mine.
I will try to wear this dress in different ways because I believe that it can be a workhorse in the wardrobe. Did you notice I have a Dooney and Bourke color-blocked red and navy handbag that I am carrying. It is color but not overpowering. It does not compete with the colors in the dress; but it complements it very well.
Are you a bit apprehensive about color or do you step in with both feet and celebrate it?

This post is linked with Visible Monday.
by | Jul 8, 2013 | Fashion |
Summer 2013 shoes are all about simple embellishments and practical wear-ability. This warm weather season designers universally have incorporated metallic adornments and neutral colors into their fabulous summer collections. Whether you’re a boho chic, classic glamour or a rustic elegance fashionista, there is a gorgeous shoe out there that is perfect for you this summer.
Below are the trendiest summer shoe styles that will complement any personality.
1. Statement Sandals
Nothing screams summer quite like sandals; they have become an iconic summer style that has re-invented itself year after year because of its wear-ability. This summer sandals have once again evolved and are perfect statement making pieces. Designers like Koolaburra and Stuart Weitzman have taken the sandal to the next level by creating architectural inspired pieces. From fringe to calf length gladiators, summer sandals are fun, unique and practical. But perhaps the best part about statement making sandals is that they are transitional. This summer whether you’re at a backyard barbeque, touring a new city or watching a movie in the park, sandals are the ideal style because they are comfortable and will pair with everything from jeans to dresses. So if you’re a gal that is looking for transitional shoes that are wear-able then statement making sandals are your ideal summer shoe.

footcandyshoes.com – Koolaburra – S3Ven

footcandyshoes.com – Stuart Weitzman – Gladiator
2. Gold Embellished Wedges
Gold is in every collection this summer season but our favorite way to incorporate this illuminating color into your look is by wearing it on your wedges. Designers like Kate Spade and Jimmy Choo have creatively integrated metallic gold into their wedge designs by subtly adding gold fabric and hardware. Since gold remains hidden within the details of the wedge designs, pops of gold seem to shimmer and light up as you gracefully walk. Given that gold is very neutral in tone, gold embellished wedges become versatile because they can be worn with an array of outfits, from capris to bathing suits to peplum dresses. If you’re a glamour girl that wants a dainty sparkle in your step then gold embellished wedges are the perfect shoe for you this summer.

footcandyshoes.com – Kate Spade – Carmelita

footcandyshoes.com – Jimmy Choo – Pela-Tec
3. Ankle Boots
The pairing of ankle boots with shorts embodies all that is summer 2013. The bohemian music festival vibe combined with a touch of rustic elegance creates a casual, fun and effortless look. Designers like Materia Prima and Stuart Weitzman have designed stunning ankle boots that celebrities like Ashley Tisdale, Kate Bosworth, and Miranda Kerr have been recently spotted in. From concerts to shopping endeavors to your 4th of July celebration, ankle boots will leave you feeling comfortable throughout the entire day and night. But perhaps the best part about buying ankle boots this summer is that you will get plenty of wear out of them for the fall and winter seasons as well. So if you’re looking for a versatile yet rustic glamour type of shoe then ankle boots are the shoes for you this summer.

footcandyshoes.com – Materia Prima – 3M6394

footcandyshoes.com – Stuart Weitzman – Studgal
4. Strappy Pumps
Cuff straps and strappy open toed pumps are one of the sexiest trends this summer season. There’s just something about pumps that have straps and ties—it simply projects confidence and charisma. When strappy pumps are done right they look soft, delicate yet exude attitude. Designers like Rupert Sanderson and Jerome Rousseau are the ideal designers to turn to when looking for a strappy pump this summer season. Within their collections they have strappy pumps that all women will feel empowered and sophisticated in. From a summer wedding to a special luncheon, strappy pumps not only will make you feel and look gorgeous but they are a must when battling the heat. If you’re a woman that loves practical fashion then strappy pumps are the shoes for you this warm weathered season.

footcandyshoes.com – Rupert Sanderson – Ivory

footcandyshoes.com – Jerome Rousseau – Lund
We hope that these 4 trendy summer shoe styles make it into your closet!
To purchase these summer shoe styles, or to find more of your own, be sure to visit Foot Candy Shoes
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by | Jun 30, 2013 | Fashion |

Bold Prints are hotter than ever! The dress from Chadwicks kicks up the print factor of more is better.

Not fond of showing my shoulders and arms but I branched out. I have always wanted slender arms but no matter how much I work out they just keep looking muscular.
I digress. Lord deliver me from this self torture.
Oh well I have to love me some me! Stop the nitpicking of my arms and start embracing that I work out hard so I feel good about that.
Now onto the shoes.
The shoes are from Poetic Licence, such a great find and are one of my favorites for summer. The flowers on the wedges are so 3 dimensional. So cool!

Here’s another view.

This dress is refreshing and great for those summer days because the fabric is 100% cotton. The fabric is breathable and the pattern is a vibrant paisley.
I added another pop of color with my Dooney and Bourke red and navy bag.

My jewelry includes two of my favorite pieces. My silver Italian lire charm bracelet and my Amedeo NYC cameo ring.

Color, color, color is the way to go for me. It not only makes me smile but it gives some confidence in the way I carry myself.

This post is linked to Visible Monday
by | Jun 16, 2013 | Fashion |
Blessings to you and hope your having a great day.
I have found such a pretty dress during my birthday month of May.

JT in dress
The dress by NY Collection is so chic and comfortable in the best way. I was browsing at Macy’s with my husband on the day of my birthday. I saw this dress on the mannequin. I looked at the price tag and it was a whopping $69.00. I really liked the fabric because the lace had a touch of spandex and it was fully lined. Although I have to wear a slip underneath.

Lace Fabric of dress
That was not what I was planning to pay for it, so I sighed and said “Maybe someday I will get this dress; but not right now.” A couple of week later, my hubby and I went to a different Macy’s because I was looking for some black shirts for the helps ministries I work in at church and I spotted the same dress. But this time, the dress was on sale.

JT in NY Collection dress with cardigan
It was a good deal because the dress was half priced and I had another 20% coupon, making the final marked-down price of the dress down to $27.60. I have learned that it pays to wait. If you can wait you may get a better deal. It is not always wise to go out and by something hastily, especially with Macy’s. Macy’s seems to be having a new sale going on all the time, and there are usually coupons attached to the sales flyer. You never go to Macy’s without a coupon.
This is another versatile dress that works by itself or with a cardigan, whether it is for church or for work. My Coach handbag in bright patent fuchsia gave the outfit above a pop of color.
Below is a picture with the cardigan off and its effortless style. The silver belt came with the dress and gives definition to my waist.

My shoes from DSW are a Kelly and Kate ballerina spectator style that was a nude color with black. It worked without looking too matchy-matchy.

Having a little head banger fun.

Happy Father’s Day to my Dad and my Father in love Dad who are in heaven with the Lord, to the Dads everywhere, Dad role models, those mothers and fathers who are being a mom and a dad to their children.
This post is linked to Visible Monday.

by | Jun 9, 2013 | Blogging / Technology, Fashion |
I was given the opportunity to try a Snugg iPad leather case for my iPad 3 from www.thesnugg.com. I choose pink because that is one of my favorite colors. It arrived Royal mail in about two weeks. When I opened up the package, the case looked really stylish and edgy. I had to immediately place my iPad inside and try it out.

JT using snug iPad case
The first impression of the case was it had a vibrancy of color and the soft hand of the leather. Also, my iPad felt so secure and snug (pardon the pun) inside the case.

Snugg iPad 3 Leather case
I really like how my iPad 3 feels secure when I inserted it in the case and secured it with the velcro flap. When I closed the case there is an automatic shut off , so there no worries about the battery running out because it conserves energy of the device. They stylus holder is on the top. I do not have a problem with the stylus holder located on the top maybe because I am left handed. My husband prefers the stylus holder to be on the side for more convenience. Maybe that is because he is right-handed.

www.snugg.com
The Snugg website has a cool video on how the case converts for different uses. In the picture above the flap you see will convert the iPad into a table top stand to either watch movies or do other things on the iPad. I really like this feature about the case.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCXcwOWDuOg[/youtube]
Th e Snugg company gifted me with the iPad 3 leather case and asked if I would give my honest opinion. I believe that they gifted me a high-quality product. The Snugg iPad 3 leather case is on sale on the Snugg site right now for $34.99. This is a product that I would have paid for. Yes, it is that good.

I would like to thank the Snugg company for gifting me with the iPad 3 leather case because it really is an awesome product.

If you are in the market for an iPad Case then look no further than www.thesnugg.com. The cases are made well and very well priced.

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