Stylish Monday and Link Up Party

Chic and Cozy Coats

Coats – no matter where you live or the type of climate you’re in, you probably have a coat or two! Some of this year’s coat trends includes the following: faux leather puffer, I must have been ahead of the curve as I purchased mine last year but continue to get lots of compliments this year! Mine is more of patent leather look. The “dad coat”…think oversize, wool coats so big they’re borderline obnoxious. The quilted coat that’s almost as if you’re walking around in a blanket. Have you heard of the shacket? It’s a combination shirt and jacket? It’s just like your favorite flannel, but heavier with wool finishes that are meant to keep you cozy all season. Coats with shearling and the “Teddy Bear” coats continues to trend. Shearling lining and all-over plush teddy bear fabrics are comfy, functional, and seriously luxe-looking. Living in Illinois causes me to have a wide variety of coats, gloves, mittens and scarves! This girl has got to stay warm and yet stylish! Here are a few of my newer coat additions.

Puffer Coat

As mentioned, I purchased my patent leather look puffer coat last year around this time so it’s the only one that isn’t brand new but I still love it. It’s by Betsey Johnson; and I got it at Stein Mart. It was purchased for my trip to Portland, Oregon. It traveled great and is nice and warm for this always cold gal! The stand up collar keeps my neck warm. The big sleeves add interest; and I’m able to wear thick sweaters underneath if needed! I probably grab for this coat more often than not especially running around on errands, etc. It goes with everything from dressier to workout wear!

Faux Leather Joggers: Express
Camisole: My Closet (Evereve)
Lug Sole Black Patent Boots: Forever 21 (While shopping with my Granddaughter 🙂
Puffer Coat: My Closet (Bestsey Johnson – Stein Mart)

Neon Scarf: Burlington Coat Factory
Metallic Scuba Blue Booties: My Closet (Katy Perry Collection)
Faux Patent Leggings: Spanx

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The “Dad” Coat

I have to admit that I was influenced by the influencers on Instagram with this coat! I’m calling it my “Dad” Coat because it is larger and somewhat oversized; and I intentionally bought it that way! I wanted to be able to wear heavy sweaters underneath and liked the oversized look. Some might call it a “shacket” because it looks like a plaid shirt/coat. It doesn’t matter to me what it’s called because I just love it!

Shimmery (hard to see) Dark Wash Skinny Jeans: Express
Star Sweater: My Closet (Stein Mart)
Fury Boots: My Closet (Cecelia New York)
Plaid Coat: Old Navy

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The Teddy Bear Coat

The “Teddy Bear Coat” has been trending since last year and continues to trend. I added it to my Christmas wish list from Mr. FTF. He always comes through for me! I requested it in pale pink, which he got for me. However, he used the link I sent him and didn’t check the size. It was much too big. When I went to exchange it, the pink was sold out. However, it comes in cream, black and this blue. I went for the steal blue color since I don’t own any other coats in this color. This coat is definitely warm. It doesn’t have any front closures so I most likely will wear it more for a statement than for running around. You could add a belt.

Eyelash Turtleneck Sweater: My Closet (H & M)
Cream Colored Boots: Express
Snakeskin Print Jeans: My Closet (Kohl’s)
Teddy Bear Coat: Target

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The “Shacket”

What is a “shacket” you ask? A shacket is a shirt thick enough to be halfway between a shirt and a jacket—an ideal, year-round layering piece. My first shacket I got in the fall, which you can tell by the pictures. I think a shacket goes well with leggings and skinny jeans. For me a shacket is more casual and easily layers over a turtleneck or long sleeve t-shirt. The first look is far more my comfort zone. The second look is me being outside of my fashion comfort. I feel a bit like a lumberjack. However, both ways it was very comfortable and warm. A shacket would be great paired with leisure wear…think hoodies and joggers. In the dead of winter in Illinois, I would need a coat over my shacket!

Shacket: Flair on Third
Black Long Sleeve Tshirt: Express
Sherpa Lined Wedges: My Closet
Leggings: Target

Red Long Sleeve Tshirt: My Closet
Fur Trimmed Boots: My Closet (Cecelia New York)
Jeans: Maurice’s
Shacket: Maurice’s

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Chic and Cozy Coats of My Fellow Lifestyle and Fashion Blogging Friends from Around the World

Ada – Elegance and Mommyhood – I think coats are a closet staple if you live in the Midwest. We have had our share of cold weather and snow as you will see from this post, today, but overall it is mild (that means in the 30s & 40s for us). Speaking of closet staples, if you don’t own a Winter White or Cream one yet, you should. I think a classic wool coat in cream will be timeless and it can last you for several years to come. I love mine (it’s from Loft from last year and both Loft and Old Navy have almost identical ones this year). Stop by the blog today to see sweet Vivian also, in a pretty blush pink coat.

Amy – Amy’s Creative Pursuits – As a Wisconsin Gal, we have severe winters and live in parkas all season long. I have parkas of all styles, lengths, and colors filling my closet, but for this challenge I wanted more of a statement coat so I chose a very old pea coat that rarely gets worn. It’s a fun, unique coat, but not that practical for my climate.

Andy – Pearls and Pantsuits – I’ve had this snuggly leopard print coat from Chico’s for several years now, and find myself reaching for it again and again. It’s the perfect little layer for our milder winters, and for my cold office! Not to mention that anything leopard is always a good idea!

Emma – The Style Splash – It has turned really cold and frosty here in the UK so I need a warm coat. This vintage cream one is perfect as it’s long and has a hood to keep the snow off my hair…yes, we’ve had snow! I found it in a charity shop for less than £10…such a fantastic bargain!

Gwen – Gwen Lives Well Needless to say, living in Florida, I don’t get much of a chance to adorn my winter gear. Sure, we get a few days in the 50s, but generally, a leather jacket or wool poncho is all you need. So while I donated most of my ‘heavy winter coats from my New York life’ collection ages ago, I still have a few favorites, which I share on the blog. The coat pictured here was purchased just a few years ago, as an in-between coat – not for weather that’s not too cold, but cold enough for more than a wool poncho! Perfect for New York in November, pre-pandemic, 2019.

Michele – On Instagram as Seechele_styles This fur leopard coat is reversible to a rain coat… it’s over 15yrs old and will never go out of style!

Nancy – Nancy’s Fashion Style -I always have a lot of trouble finding the perfect winter coat! This one wasn’t! On the blog post from last Friday I am wearing the perfect one. This one has a fabulous color but that’s all it has. No pockets, no lining, no collar. It was given to me and I really loved the color, but passed it on!

Nicole – High Latitude Style – In Interior Alaska, winter lasts about seven months. Temperatures can be anywhere between 40 below (or less) zero to slightly above the freezing point. While around the freezing point a loden coat works fine, a heavy down coat is a Must at 40 below. These coats make everyone look like the Michelin Men. Shearling or goat coats work fine down to -30C (~-22F).

Nina – Sharing a Journey – I love styling coats and jackets in the winter; layering accessories, playing with shapes and colors. In today’s post, I am sharing a few thoughts on elevating your coat styling game.

Shelbee – Shelbee on the Edge – I have a bit of an obsession with coats especially since I live in a snow belt where winters are long and frigid. And I am usually drawn to dramatic statement coats which I love to search for in thrift shops. That is where I found this Jordache white faux fur coat a few years ago and it cost less than $10. I don’t wear it often but when I do, I feel like a fancy polar bear!

Suzanne – Ask Suzanne Bell – As someone who wears a lot of black and denim, a fun coat is an instant game-changer. From animal print to bright red – I like my coats to be fun. Throw some faux fur into the mix, even better. And yes, I have been known to wear a coat over my pajamas!

Let’s Chat

Hopefully you’ve gotten some winter coat ideas and inspiration no matter where you live or you climate you live in! Did you have a favorite? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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This post contains affiliate links, meaning when you click on an item or purchase an item, I may receive a very small commission for the click or purchase. These picks are NOT sponsored, are selected solely by me, and opinions are entirely my own.

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We’d love for you to share your style with us! Link your look or blog post in today’s Stylish Monday Link-Up Party below!

Feature a Friend

Introducing Gail Gensler

Fashion Trends and Friends is as much about friends as we are about fashion! We’re excited to kick off 2020 Featuring a Friend, Gail! Gail and I will be partnering throughout the year bringing you posts co-hosted.

First a little about how we met. Gail and I were following each other on Instagram. I was intrigued and motivated by Gail, the “Boxing Princess”! We are the same age and very like minded. Although our platforms are slightly different, – mine more fashion focused and Gail’s more fitness focused – our messages are the same. Age shouldn’t limit you! Do what you love and brings you joy! It’s never too late! You’re never too old!

I was attending a conference in Miami this past March. When I posted about my attendance, Gail reached out and we realized I was staying a block away from where she lives. We agreed to meet and instantly knew we liked each other. We spent the evening talking, which actually felt more like catching up with a long time friend. The conference was shut down; and we had to scramble to get our flight changed to get home. The quarantine had begun! I wish we would have had more time together. We both felt as though we would be doing things together in the future!

One of the advantages of blogging and being on social media platforms is meeting amazing women doing amazing things regardless of age! I feel as though I could go anywhere in the US as well as other countries and connect in person with those I’ve met through IG! Gail is a wonderful example and here’s why…

Meet Gail

Fit. Fabulous. Forever.

I’m about to be 60 years young and truly do believe that age is just a number-it’s a mindset.

My goal is to change the narrative about aging from a “real woman’s” perspective. I’m not a subject matter expert on fitness, supplements, nutrition, skin care, dermatology, plastic surgery or style. I have just found what works for me to keep myself vibrant and healthy.

My belief is that age should never determine one’s lifestyle, appearance and most certainly what type of workouts to do. I work out 6 days a week as it’s my joy, primarily boxing which I have been doing since 1999 but also HIIT training and am always open to trying new modalities.

I have been in the automotive industry since 1986, and am considered to be a leader in my industry. I manage the BDC for sales and service for a dealership and just celebrated my 21^st year.

In March 2020, I pursued a new goal and began my journey on Instagram for business, began blogging and am now pursuing a modeling career.

I am divorced with one incredible daughter who at 24 is adulting on a grand scale- a teacher, homeowner and pursuing a Masters Degree.

I sadly have lost both my parents in the last 4 years, but am grateful as they both lived into their 90’s.

Originally from New York, I have been living in Miami since 1989.

My other interests include art, fashion, reading and international travel.

Fitness

Athletics is one of the biggest parts of my life. It’s what I have repeatedly done for the duration of my life, and therefore it is intrinsically tied to who I define myself as. I derive joy from working out both on a physical level and also a mental level.

I was active throughout my childhood, participating in tennis, volleyball and tetherball in both school and camp.

Retrospectively, these sports all had one common factor-they were hands on activities where I was using my upper body strength.

It was no wonder that when I took my first boxing for fitness class in 1999 I was ‘hooked”. I actually went on to purchase the boxing gym I was attending and taught group fitness boxing classes as well, the last time at 55 years old!

Age is a small afterthought when I workout. I enjoy the challenge and the exhilaration of the experience and now realize that additionally I am an inspiration and motivation to others.

How I look impacts my self esteem and confidence . It allows me to help fight the natural issues of aging.

The physical benefits are well documented and proven for longevity, immunity and strength.

I’ve never needed convincing that health needs to be a priority hence my continued research on anti aging, supplements, and my incessant archiving of workouts so that I can be creative and not get bored by redundancy.

I am blessed to have tremendous longevity in my genes, and I want all my years to be strong, productive and healthy years for myself and to be around for my daughter.

With all that being said, my personal WHY is primarily because I love to have fun! Working out is my adult version of playtime. Listening to great music ( personal preferences being EDM, disco, 80’s and 90’s dance music) which gets me dancing during cardio drills and gives me the beat to throw punches and kicks to.

When I’m sweating it out in a class surrounded by like minded people I’m having pure fun. It’s actually reminiscent of my long ago club days!

I immerse myself in the experience, enjoying the strength, endurance and aptitude I have.

Jumping , mountain climbers, jumping jacks, burpees are fun (well maybe not the burpees) and nothing is better than hitting the boxing bag, feeling my strength and utilizing my hand eye coordination and mind in executing the combinations .

I’m living in my joyful moment. Improving myself, adding meaning and fulfillment to my day all the while being grateful for my energy and abilities, never once thinking about my age!

Getting Started

Making the decision to work towards a healthier lifestyle is timeless – it can happen at any point in your life, but how and why should you choose to make yours? From my personal experiences, here is my advice: first of all, congratulate yourself for starting your wellness journey. It is not an easy lifestyle change and will require a willingness to shift your thinking from immediate benefits to long-term benefits. You are making the choice for yourself- to live a longer, stronger life. When you want something bad enough, you will find a way to make it happen, regardless of any obstacles.

Find something you enjoy or you will find it much more challenging to be consistent. Decide how you plan to balance the fitness aspect of your wellness journey with the adjustment in your eating habits – one of the most difficult changes to make. The temptation is always there and we are creatures of instant gratification.

Choose what fitness activity makes you happy in your life and what foods are best for your individual metabolism. I encourage everyone to think about HOW and WHY! I found it best to reflect back on the activities I enjoyed in my childhood. As an example, I was on the volleyball team and tennis team, and I was also a champion at tether ball. What was the common denominator here? Being able to hit things! That’s why boxing for fitness resonated with me immediately. One will continue with a routine if they find it fun and engaging. It’s the reason why I look forward to my workouts every day, no matter if I’m working out at home or at my local boxing gym.

As for eating habits, the diet will definitely make an impact on your body’s wellness- but everyone’s bodies are different, and therefore everyone’s diets will be different. I have found that staying away from starches and sugar works best for my body, but I also know that to keep myself happy, I will enjoy a treat every now and then. Again, it’s about what works for YOU- and for me, a cookie is worth it when I know that I’ll be working it off on the boxing bag the next morning. My wellness lifestyle focuses a well researched combination of fitness, nutrition and supplements .

Remember that if you are choosing to start your wellness journey, you have to decide how and why YOU are making this change to your lifestyle. It is a personal journey – no comparing!

Blogging

March 2020. I had a foreboding apprehension that my gym would soon be closing, and even early on I was not comfortable- for the first time EVER- going to sweat in that environment. I was not even comfortable at that point going to the outdoor workouts from one of my favorite trainers for fear of being too close for comfort.

Inspired by a quote from the owner of the company I work for, “CQER- consistent, quality execution regardless of the obstacles” – I made a plan to make it happen.

So who better to ask for advice than a gym owner who I greatly admire and who herself uses Century Martial Arts WaveMaster bags in her gym? I immediately ordered one. Additionally, I ordered a set of weights (good timing – they soon sold out everywhere) and some extra items to make a small home gym in the corner of my condo bedroom. So began my at-home fitness journey.

Once CMA started seeing my Instagram posts with my new WaveMaster, their social media agent reached out to me and asked me if I wanted to contribute to their blog about my experiences with the new bag. When she asked me if I was a blogger in true Gail Gensler fashion I said, “ Yes, I am!”

After receiving my initial article, she and I discussed collaborating on a monthly basis and so began my blogging career.

I have contributed to and been featured in

Brickell Magazine

Brickell City Centre

The Brickell Scoop

Midtown Miami Magazine

CKO Miami

“The Over 50 Health & Wellness Podcast” with Kevin English

The Pro-Age Woman

“Headstrong Podcast” with Danielle Mills

Century Martial Arts

Century Martial Arts Europe

Inspire Her Health

Hello 50

Kuel Life

Forty and Beyond Magazine

Changing Decades

I’ve been boxing since 1999 and the thought of stopping due to age has never occurred to me. If anything, I’ve become more inspired to find new challenges and continue pushing myself. I try different workouts even if they seem impossible (that’s you, HYROX). Am I usually the oldest one there? Sure. Do I care? Not at all. Especially when younger women come up to me and tell me how I am inspiring them. It’s not an insult to be acknowledged as older. Why should it be? We all age. I know that they will have a different narrative to tell themselves about positive aging.

A big positive about being in midlife is that I have accepted myself as I am, while always striving to be the best version of myself that I can be, through fitness and embracing a healthy lifestyle. I’ve realized (wish I had earlier) that it’s not about perfection, it’s about effort. I work very hard at staying fit and appreciating how at 59 I can still perform as well as ever. As Vince Lombardi said, “Mental toughness is essential to success.” It’s a mindset.

I no longer compare myself to anyone else. I am unique and proud of my efforts and results. I keep a balance and enjoy my cookies and dark chocolate too.

The challenge is to not get in my own head. I must accept that although I avail myself to many wonderful resources to fight the signs of aging, I must accept the aging process. I control the controllables: good nutrition, a supplement routine, good skincare, no sun (tough In Miami) and lots of sleep. I surround myself with positive, like-minded people, read things that inspire me and have done what I can to delete or diminish toxic relationships. The things that I can’t control, I don’t sweat over (I do enough of that working out, anyway!).

I won’t let a number stop me from doing what I love and have fun at: punching, kicking and pushing myself onto new challenges!

As I do truly embody the age is just a number mindset, I will just continue to DO ME!

60-So What!

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Aren’t you just so inspired and motivated by Gail’s story and her message? Everything she says resonates with me; and I know you feel the same! As Gail and I plan to collaborate throughout the year, we’d love to hear from you. What topics would you like to see us cover or discuss throughout 2021? Leave us a comment! Thanks in advance!

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Holiday Wishes

Seasons Greetings and Best Wishes for the New Year

The holidays are upon us and our typical family gatherings and perhaps even traditions are much different this year. That doesn’t mean we can’t find the joy and happiness in whatever way we might be celebrating!

My Favorite Girlie is wearing my baby bracelet in the picture on the right.

Part of my holiday joy involves taking my granddaughter to pick out a birthday and Christmas outfit to wear for pictures. Mr. FTF and I have taken her since she was two years old. Her birthday is December 14th. She just turned 11. Now I ask her if she still wants to go with us; so far the answer has been YES! It’s a special moment for me to see her feeling so beautiful and feeling so special. We were able to go shopping this year, which brought me great joy! However, we had to cancel the photography appointment as all three of them had Covid.

2020 Covid Christmas Card

Since we weren’t able to pull off getting our favorite girlie photographed and because this year has been so heavy, I thought it would be better to send out a funny card – definitely not my typical card at all! However, I love to laugh and have fun so it seemed fitting that this would be the year for that kind of card and a little levity! We did actually log onto Zoom to take pictures and we had a lot of fun, many laughs and bloopers! It felt so good to see them even via Zoom! The hour we spent on Zoom together brought me great joy!

I’ve always enjoyed having Mr. FTF drive me around to look at the lights during the holidays! We’ve done way more of that this year; and it’s great that more houses seem decorated and over decorated this season! Driving around listening to Christmas music, sipping a coffee and laughing as Mr. FTF serenades me has filled my heart with joy!

Breakfast with Santa

Part of my holiday joy has been going to breakfast with Santa and my favorite girlie! I have been grateful each year to be included with her other grandparents and see the joy and excitement in her eyes! She has been absolutely sure he is the REAL Santa without a doubt! We were able to go last year and I took in every minute knowing it might be the last not because I knew we were headed into a pandemic but because she’s older and potentially wouldn’t be interested in going any more. I’m not sure if she knows that Santa is a believe in you heart verses an actual person. She didn’t want to write a letter to Santa this year but hasn’t told us that she knows he’s not a real person. It brings me joy looking back on all the breakfasts we enjoyed with her going to see Santa!

Adventures with Our Favorite Girlie

Since our favorite girlie has been little, we’ve always taken her on outings and adventures to have lot of experiences and create lots of great memories together. Last year on the day after Christmas, we took her ice skating for her first time in Millennium Park. I can’t remember the last time I was on the ice but this grandma didn’t do too bad! LOL. We went to the new Starbucks downtown Chicago. It took forever waiting in the lines but we made the best of it; and I just enjoyed having all that time to talk with her! She chose where we went to dinner. Dinner was followed by the light show at the Chicago Botanical Gardens. A day of pure joy!

This year it’s been very hard to get tickets to outdoor events especially on the weekends but I did manage to get tickets for the Jack Frost Winter Walk. Afterwards, we went to Rosemont (a town not far from Chicago) and walked among the lights. I’ve always admired them from afar as we drove on the highway in the car. The lights were even better up close and in person! Still finding time with her and cherishing those moments is what the holidays are for me and fill my heart with joy! She’ll still go and do things with us; and I hope that never changes but I also know that she’ll want to start spending more time with friends!

Being Fancy

You already know that being fancy brings me joy! Despite working remotely I still get up and get dressed up! I made it a point to wear something each day of December that was glittery or sparkly and made me happy! I think it even brought those who saw me via Zoom a little joy…I might have had a blinking light up necklaces and holiday hats at my disposable to put on and brighten up the day!

CHOOSE JOY

No matter what your holidays and traditions look like this year, my wish for you is that you can find a little sliver of joy each day! My mantra runs true today and all year long: It’s the little things that are really the big things worthy of celebration! May you have lots to celebrate! Choose Joy!

Fashion Trends and Friends wants to wish you a very happy holiday season! Our wish for you in 2021 is peace, love, health and happiness. May magic fill your days and all your dreams come true this holiday season!

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What brings you joy? How have you found joy during the holiday season? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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Stylish Monday and Link Up Party

All the Sparkles

This holiday season and this year’s holiday celebrations will most likely be unlike any others we’ve ever had. In my household, we’re struggling with not participating in our typical Christmas Eve events, which brings me great sadness but I remind myself there will be lots of future opportunities. This is one year in the big scheme of things. So what do you wear for a different kind of celebration or a more low key event staying home. I’d suggest wear what brings you joy and makes you the most happy. For me, it’s sparkles! So when we landed on this months theme, I did a happy dance! All things sparkly bring me great joy and help me to feel most myself! I’ve actually made a point of having some sparkle in my daily outfit the whole month of December. And by the way, why limit sparkles to only December?! I say sparkle away all year long! What’s the saying? “When you look marvelous, you feel marvelous! And I feel marvelous!”

Rhinestone Sweater

This I.N.C. Embellished Turtleneck Sweater also comes in black!

This sweater is lined with rhinestones and sparkles so beautifully! The pictures just don’t do it justice! I opted to pair it with my paper bag high waisted silver shimmery pants, which I got in the spring for such a great sale price I just couldn’t pass them up. I added my silver pumps and drop earrings to easily complete the look. I must mention that this outfit is very comfortable while looking super fancy!

Faux Leather Cropped Flare Pants: I.N.C. Macy’s
Sweater: I.N.C. Macy’s

This sweater can easily be worn with other bottoms and, therefore, doesn’t look quit as fancy. Pairing these faux leather cropped flair pants is another way this rhinestone covered sweater can be worn. The cropped flair pants are also very comfortable. White/cream faux leather is a nice switch from the typical black although they also come in black. You can get this whole look in black if a cream/white color isn’t for you. I wore this look in my last blog post when I interviewed Karen of K.Hollis Jewelers. (To read and watch that blog post, click HERE.). A rhinestone covered sweater seemed like the perfect option to go to a jewelry store for an interview. Would you agree?

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Sparkly Sweaters

There are so many sparkly sweater options that at times it’s such a challenge for me to walk away! LOL Sweaters and sparkles seem to call my name and catch my eye. In my defense, it’s sweater weather much of the year here in Illinois and I don’t mind sparkling all year long!

Cream Colored Faux Leather Cropped Flare Pants: I.N.C. Macy’s
Fair Isles Sweater: Style & Comp Macy’s
Cream Colored Booties: Express

It was easy to switch my embellished sweater to this fair isle sweater and the silver pumps to my cream colored booties. The sweater has metallic silver and gold for more of a subtle sparkle. I like winter white or cream especially as winter can seem to linger on and be dreary. This sweater comes in three color options. This particular one is called Vanilla Bean Combo.

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Sequin Sweater

White Paten Boots: Amazon
Pink Velvet Pants: Charter Club Macy’s
White Sequin Embellished Sweater: Charter Club Macy’s

The look on the right is from last year although I’m wearing it again and still loving it this year! I love it so much that I purchased almost the identical look on the right this year. Both sweaters are embellished with colorful sequins that play in the light and sparkle beautifully! Both pairs of pants are velvet. The red pair is from Banana Republic. The pink pair is from Macy’s and also come in red. My plaid boots with rhinestone covered heels are Betsey Johnson from last year. This year the plaid boots have black glitter heels. The glitter belt on the left is from Amazon. The colorfulness, embellishments, and textures keep both looks festive and fun! I’ll wear them all winter long and of course the sweaters and pants can easily be paired with other things in my closet!

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Sequin Joggers

Since we’ve spending far more time at home and our holiday plans are looking much different than in past years, I know that many prefer to be comfortable and want to wear leisure looks. How about a super comfy pair of joggers covered in sequins?! I think it’s the perfect combination of comfort but make it fancy!

This hoodie sweater is soooooo soft! It has statement sleeves for some added interest and details. These high waisted sequin joggers are also very comfy and don’t have the scratchy feel that some things do that are covered in sequins. I’ve paired the look with booties but you could also wear sneakers or slippers! Cute, comfy and fancy … the perfect combination for this holiday pandemic style! I’ve also worn the sweater with brown leggings and a plaid jacket. Both the sweater and the joggers can be worn so many ways!

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Embellished Hoodie

Wear a hoodie but make it fancy! The minute I spotted this hoodie with rhinestone embellished buttons I knew I had to have it! (It also comes in cream.). It meets the criteria of keeping it comfy and casual yet adding an element of fancy! Yay! I opted to pair it with my sequin leggings from my closet. I even added my rhinestone headband. The headband is extra special because I originally wore it when we renewed our 25th wedding anniversary vows! I added my glittery Vince Camuto boots and voila…comfy yet fancy!

My Current Favorite Red Lipstick: Gucci Madge Red

SHOP THE RED SPARKLY LIPSTICK

https://shopstyle.it/l/bpN0h

To dress down this hoodie, I also paired it with my faux leather joggers and my rhinestone embellished combat boots! I like the sassiness of this look! It’s comfy, more casual and a little sassy! This joggers are seeing a lot of use and go with everything! Maybe Santa will give me a ride on his motorcycle!

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All the Sparkles of My Fellow Lifestyle and Fashion Blogging Friends from Around the World

Amy – Amy’s Creative Pursuits – Since Christmas will be spent in the comfort of our home this year, I decided to create a comfy casual yet sparkly outfit at the same time. I paired comfy jeans with a sequined tank and then I added even more sparkle and shine with jewelry and fun gold sandals.

Suzanne – Ask Suzanne Bell – This holiday, our activities may look different than seasons past, but we cannot give up and let the Covid steal our sparkle. These days, running errands, baking, picking up take-out, or binge-watching classic holiday movies on the couch are opportunities to swap out the yoga pants for something more festive in order to feel a bit more put together, and in the spirit of the holiday season. By swapping out a plain white tee for this thrifted sequin rocker tee and velvet duster, I felt a whole new level of festiveness.

Nina – Sharing a Journey – It’s that time of year when glitter and glitz, sequins and bows can and should be worn daily! Hop over to lift your spirits and add a little glitter to even the smallest of things.

Nancy – Nancy’s Fashion Style – I’ve been looking for a perfect gold sequin top for months now but can’t find it! So annoying! However….I do have this gorgeous rose gold shiny metallic kind a skirt. Very glowy and perfect for the holidays with a gorgeous black blouse and black heels. But for now I am wearing it for these cold days before!

Andy – Pearls and Pantsuits – I’ve had this jacket for a while and just love the subtle pop of sparkle on the sleeves, so when I found the fully sequined top at TJMaxx I just knew it would work well with that jacket and so many other things in my closet! It’s a lovely rose gold color and is lightweight enough for our warmer Louisiana winter weather. I adore sparkle! Give me all the sparkle!

Nicole – High Latitude Style – Being a dancer sparkle is my thing. Can you imagine a ballroom gown without Rhinestones or sequins? Of course, the sequins also can be worn at day.

Shelbee – Shelbee on the Edge – I recently found this sequined mini skirt on a thrifting adventure for something sparkly for another style challenge. I ended up wearing something different for that one so I was excited for this style theme to wear the skirt. I added my floral sequined boots, a leopard print sweater, and my faux fur coat (also thrifted) with statement gold jewelry for my shiny festive outfit in black, tan, and gold. It never hurts to add some sparkle and shine to our days! Happy holidays!

Ada – Elegance and Mommyhood – This has been the year of rediscovering my closet – COVID and all – so I am wearing an outfit featuring pieces I have owned, like this fitted cropped beaded+sequined hot pink tank top styled beautifully with a maroon shimmery tweed skirt (love that asymmetrical ruffle). I went for a monochrome look by pairing it with these cranberry studded suede booties. Between the top, my rhinestone hair clip, my jewelry and my gorgeous gold tree I got a lot of sparkle in this look. Tis the season to Shimmer and SPARKLE!!

Michele – On Instagram as Seechele_styles My Sequined top is thrifted, the camo joggers are from Walmart and my sneakers are from SHEIN. It’s a party on the top, and casual on the bottom, showing you can mix it up.

Emma – Style Splash I bought this “Golden Girl” sweater last winter, and when it popped up in an Instagram memory I thought it would be perfect for this theme. It seems I’m not the only one who loves it because I’ve seen several celebrities wearing it on TV in the last week. True to the slogan I had to add more gold; I finally managed to get hold of these gold boots after patiently waiting for months for them to become available on eBay in my size (they sold out very quickly in Zara). I think they were worth the wait!

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Hopefully you’ve gotten some holiday styling ideas and some inspiration to include a little sparkle into your look! Did you have a favorite? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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Good Things Come in Small Packages

More than just jewelry…It’s an experience at K.Hollis Jewelers

Serving the Fox Valley, Aurora, North Aurora, Geneva, St. Charles, Elgin, South Elgin, Sugar Grove, Elburn, Montgomery, Oswego, Yorkville, West Chicago, Batavia, and the Western Suburbs since 2004

K.Hollis Jewelers from Fun to Fine

Women owned small business and small businesses in general are a staple to our communities! Whenever possible, I love to support small! Many years ago my husband and I were looking for a jewelry piece. It’s been so long that I can’t even remember what it was I wanted or hoped for at the time. We had just moved to the area and randomly chose K.Hollis because it was relatively close to home. You can imagine my surprise to recognize the owner, Karen. Karen and I went to the same grade school although I’m two years older. The holiday season feels like the perfect time to share Karen and her story with you!

Throughout our marriage, Mr. FTF has gifted me with many beautiful pieces of jewelry that I’ve cherished and continue to hold dear. He carefully wrapped the piece and always placed it at the bottom of my stocking. When I reached the bottom of my stocking and pulled out a small box, I always have a feeling of delight to know something chosen with love and something beautiful was going to be in the small box!

This particular Christmas Mr. FTF gifted me a beautiful amethyst and diamond ring! (This was prior to my Lasik surgery when I still wore glasses!)

The holiday season feels like the perfect time to share Karen and her story with you! Plus you know my strong believe that accessories make the difference and take an outfit from good to great!

Karen’s Start

Karen and Murphy … Murphy is a friendly fella who greets customers at the store when he’s not napping!

Initially, Karen had a career in special education. We both share that commonality! Special education can be very taxing so after fifteen years Karen decided to take a year off from teaching. She and a friend went to a gem and jewelry show. Karen was drawn to a bead vendor and started creating pieces while looking at the bead choices. She came home with $2,000. worth of beads. Prior to this Karen typically did not even wear jewelry nor did she have an interest in creating it. At least that she knew of at the time! She began selling her bracelets and before she knew it had over a 1,000 customers!

The perfect friend gathering- a beading party at K.Hollis Jewelers!

The K.Hollis Jewelry Store Story

Karen sets herself apart from other jewelers by creating a fun atmosphere and getting to know her customers before she even begins to work with them! Part of the ambiance of the store is Murphy, the unique display cases, and large bar across the back wall.

Gathering Place

“Enjoy a glass of wine or a craft beer while you shop or host a special event.

The Wine Bar at K.Hollis is open whenever the jewelry store is open. They are a community gathering place where you can enjoy a glass of wine while you shop, while you choose the perfect engagement ring, or while you host your club, fundraiser, networking event, jewelry making party, or other special event. They host events during or after our regular store hours.”

Karen offers her customers water, coffee, beer, wine, etc. You absolutely get a sense of feeling right at home talking to a good friend! After this interview, Karen and I sat and chatted at the back table. She loves being part of new love and hearing the love story behind the engagements before helping them pick the perfect ring! Karen’s goal is to make a customer for life and she does that by listening, advising, and sharing in their joy.

While we chatted, positive comments were coming in from happy customers!

2020 Top Pick as best Jewelry Store for the 12th year in a row and for Best Place to Work

“If I had a choice between a group of handsome men or coming to your store, I would pick your beautiful store!”

— Signed Just a Girl

“ You have been there for major events in my life. I appreciate all the beautiful jewelry that you created and support during these times. No wonder you are the #1 jewelry store in the tri-city area.”

— Sarah Spang

“I had an extraordinary experience at K.Hollis. I brought in my mother’s engagement diamond ring with a few smaller diamonds and Karen created an incredible design that pays homage to my mom’s diamond. I couldn’t have asked for anything better!
Thanks for everything.”

— Angela Albugo

“ My mother-in-law was very dear to me. When she passed she gifted me with all of her rings. She had beautiful hands and many rings. For 5 years the rings sat in my jewelry box and my husband and I felt badly. When I had the misfortune of losing a 25-year anniversary ring my husband had bought me, I was devastated. But, then, I had heard about Karen and together we combined 3 rings into 1. With Martha’s patience and skill we crafted a one-of-a-kind ring that has special value and sentiment to my husband and I.”

— Linda Swift

How to Connect with Karen and K.Hollis Jewelers

630-879-8003

147 S. Randall Rd. in Batavia, Illinois

Website

Instagram

Facebook

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Available Anytime By Appointment

Let’s Chat

On a side note, Karen has an amazing sense of fashion, which I’m sure is no surprise! She works with a seamstress and has created some of her own unique pieces. We were going to go and hang out in her closet but ran out of time. Therefore, a future blog post is in the works!

If you live locally, I highly recommend that you put K.Hollis Jewelers on your radar! Karen shared that customers have come from several hours drive away! That really speaks volumes! No worries if you’re not local. Karen is happy to work with you remotely and is only a phone call or virtual visit away!

It’s the perfect time of year to add a beautiful new piece of bling to your wardrobe! Would you agree?

Do you have a favorite small business? Leave us a recommendation! We love to hear from you!

This is not a sponsored post and is soley my own opinion.

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Feature a Friend

Meet “Leahbops”

At Fashion Trends and Friends, we are as much about friends as we are about fashion! Therefore, we periodically like to feature someone we think you’ll enjoy getting to know!

First, the back story of how Leah and I met. If you’ve been following FTF for some time, you know that I have been on a weight loss journey followed by a fitness journey. (To read about my weight loss journey, click HERE. To read about my fitness journey, click HERE.) A quick recap, I lost over 50 pounds by following Weight Watchers. During the eight months it took me to loose the weight, I did not workout. Yes, you read that correctly! Not that I’m proud of that but that has been my journey. In the past, I had worked out but was always heavy. Aside from my childhood, I had not been in my BMI and fit much of my adult life. Time to change all that. In January of 2019, I established a goal of finding fitness activities that I could become excited about and actually want to go and do. That’s when I found Pound Fit and Aerial Yoga. To read about Aerial Yoga, click HERE.

Pictured here with two friends from Weight Watchers and a long time friend from high school. I love Pound Fit so much that I continually brought friends and relatives to experience it! I was hoping to bring it to my school district for both students and staff!

I’ve always enjoyed doing yoga so trying aerial yoga just made sense! Both aerial yoga and Pound Fit classes were offered at my gym.

March 2020 the pandemic hits. We are required to shelter in place. My gym is closed! I’m pretty sure I spent the first two weeks sitting on the couch and binge watching Netflix. We might have gone on a periodic walk. When it began to become apparent that this wasn’t ending any time soon, I began to panic. I was fearful that my old eating habits and lack of fitness could easily become my new (old) norm so easy to resort back to but I soldiered on. Determination in figuring out how to be able to workout and continue to do the activities I love became paramount! I do believe where there’s a will there’s a way.

Pound Fit offers an on line subscription which includes taking prerecorded classes. I was thrilled and ordered my own “rip stix”. The minute they arrived I did my first class. I was hot and sweaty and happy! However, one thing was really missing for me. The camaraderie that comes from taking group classes and the social interaction. I know that I need that for it to be a super fulfilling, fun workout that I look forward to doing. Enter Leah and on line, virtual Pound Fit classes. The next best thing to actually being in person! Leah is my pandemic, fitness LIFESAVER!

Meet Leah

What sparked your interest in fitness?

“When I was elementary school age, my mom avidly attended Jazzercise classes. She would bring me along, and I was too old for the babysitting area but too young for the class. Gratefully, the instructor made an exception for me since I was more “adult” for my age (always!), and I not only took the class with my mom, but the instructor would put me onstage to demo moves during the class. I loved it! In those moments, I never thought fast forward to now I’d be teaching fitness, but I think those early memories with my mom definitely sparked the start of my fitness journey.”

What is your background in fitness?

“I earned my first fitness license to teach Zumba in 2012, working up to eventually teaching 15-20 classes/week while I lived in Chicago (and even biking to each location!). I earned additional fitness licenses including Spin, POUND, TRX, and PomSquad, and currently hold an active AFAA Group Exercise Certification. “

In order to continue my goal of trying new fitness activities despite sheltering in place, I took several of Leah’s Zumba classes virtually! I was happy to be able to try something new and have been wanting to try Zumba for some time. At my gym, Zumba classes were scheduled in the room next to my Pound Fit studio and always sounded like a lot of fun!

When and why did you decide to become a Pound, PomSquad and Zumba instructor? What are the benefits of each of these classes?

“Growing up in dance classes and then studying dance in College, I always loved dancing. When I graduated from Northwestern University in 2012, I even joined a professional dance company. Around that same time, I decided to get my Zumba certification since I had taken classes and loved it. Zumba added fun to workouts, and made dancing accessible to everyone. I loved that it also introduced Latin dances to a fitness class, which I used to do in my ballroom dancing days! I exclusively taught Zumba classes for the following years, and in 2018 I heard about a drumming fitness class that intrigued me. Having been a tap dancer, I loved the idea of combining drumming with a rockstar workout. I took one class, and I was hooked on becoming a POUND Pro, earning my license to teach POUND that summer. I loved the full-body workout, the feeling of percussion on both an emotional and physical level, and the amazing POUND community. It’s truly unlike any community I’ve ever experienced. I’ve met some of my closest friends through POUND, and they’re all rockstars — such giving, kind-hearted people. In this inclusive spirit, I collaborated with my friend that taught PomSquad classes, and I loved this new-to-me cheer-filled positive format. I became a PomSquad Captain in May 2020. I love that it’s a cheerleading-inspired class for the rebels in all of us, because we all want to shake our poms to today’s hits and yesterday’s favorites. The thread between all of the fitness classes I teach is the inclusivity, body celebration, and positivity that radiates from each of these formats. Of course, all are killer workouts, but that extra added value is so important to me and why I do what I do.”

Everything that Leah states here totally resonates with me on so many levels! I’m probably the oldest person in all of the classes and it never matters or crosses my mind that I’m too old or it’s too hard! As a former cheerleader and pom squad member, I love the high energy, dancing and feeling of being part of something bigger than myself!

How do you maintain a positive attitude and inspire others to do the same?

“My friend in high school told me that my neutral face is a smile. My colleague once gave me a candle with “contagiously positive” written on it. I’m the person that writes my to do lists with a motivational header at the top for myself like “You’ve got this, Leah!” I’ve always skewed more towards joy since I was young. I still experience all the emotions, but I get the greatest joy for myself when I can make others happy and feel good about themselves. This is what I work towards every day. I lead with love, and bring my energy, however it is that day, to others. I try not to apologize for myself, and I think it inspires others to do the same — to feel like they are enough, and to bring their selves out, just as they are.“

Leah is exactly as she’s described herself! Her positivity, love of life, super high energy is contagious! Exactly what’s needed, at least for me, as we deal with the pandemic! Even while teaching class, Leah will call out our names and indicate what we’re doing well. I’ve gotta tell you hearing your name is a real motivator at least it is for me! Leah notices us and despite being remote makes every effort to connect to each of us personally. I love that she does this and it’s so critical right now!

What tips or tricks can you suggest for getting and staying motivated?

“Motivation, in my experience, relies on two things. The first is passion or desire. Hopefully, what you’re trying to do or add to your life is something you love and enjoy. Otherwise, why? If it’s something that you have to do, then can you find at least one thing you like about it? And the second is community and support. Find a community and network that will cheer for you, and maybe get in on what you’re doing, becoming your little community of motivators. With these two things in place, it is the most powerful way to stay motivated for me.“

When Leah started offering Pom Squad Fitness classes, I was ecstatic! It afforded me another opportunity to try another new to me fitness class! Unlike doing a dance routine to one song, it’s a high energy dance class for 60 minutes of non stop moving and dancing and when in doubt, “step, tap it out”! I burn the calories like crazy! YAY!

Leah and I all hot and sweaty after an amazingly fun workout so please disregard my crazy hair!

There’s nothing better than the great feeling you have after a super fun workout!

Look who joined us this week! Val of Maple Leopard. You can follow Val on Instagram HERE. Val and I first met in person through the original Fierce Fifty Campaign and get together in Redondo Beach, CA.

This is exactly why I’ve been on a mission to find fitness activities that bring me joy, something I look forward to doing and help me stay fit! Leah also brings additional fun to her virtual classes by incorporating themes, dressing up and encouraging us to do the same! This fashionista loves being able to express my love for fashion along with my workouts!

How have you shifted your training from in-person to virtual?

“Aside from the technology shifts necessary, my training needed to shift as well. I’ve always remembered my students’ names in my classes in-person, and virtual is the same. I strive to get to know every person that attends my class, even virtually. It’s definitely a lot more challenging virtually, being that I cannot chat with people before or after class like I could in-person, but social media and digital communications have allowed me to bridge this obstacle. I’ve also loved the ability to get creative and have over-the-top themed classes that would never have been possible in-person. For my virtual classes, I try to form connections, reminding everyone that class is live, and we’re in this together. That, for me, is one of the most important of my pillars: stay connected, stay positive, and keep moving.“

YES! YES! YES! Leah is so good at doing all of these! We haven’t met in person yet but I hope to one day!

Fashion advice for workouts? (You know I had to ask this!)

“Wear things that make you feel strong and powerful! My favorite fitness brands are K-Deer, XOX Mary, POUND, PomSquad, Fabletics, and sometimes Old Navy. Leggings that are lightweight with pockets are my favorites, but they can be pricey (looking at you, LuluLemon!). I’ve recently discovered Poshmark which is a game-changer in tracking down discounted workout clothes (as well as clothes in general). I typically go for colorful sets that are comfortable and make me happy to look at and wear. This also is my advice for non-workout fashion, too! After all, on the darkest days, wear your brightest clothes.“

To Connect With and Follow Leah

Website: linktr.ee/lrkfit

Instagram: @leahfitnessrebel

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ZINleah/

POUND PROfile: https://poundfit.com/instructor/219771/leah-koch/

Zumba Page: https://www.zumba.com/en-US/profile/leah-koch-/585778

Let’s Chat

A friendly reminder that you’re never too old and it’s never too late! I would have never guessed that I’d loose the weight I did and find fitness activities that bring me joy in my late 50’s! If you need someone to cheer you on, I’m happy to be your cheerleader and I know Leah would as well!

I would love for you to join Leah and I virtually for a Pound Fit Class or a Pom Squad Fitness Class. I take Pound Fit twice a week and Pom Squad Fitness once a week. Leave me a comment or send me an email if you’re interested or have any questions! Try it! You just might love it!

What workout activities do you enjoy doing? Leave me a recommendation! I’d love to try new things!

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An Attitude of Gratitude

I Am Grateful for YOU!

Now is the perfect time to acknowledge all of you that follow along each week as I chronicle my passion for fashion and share my believe that no matter your age and no matter your size, you can always be cute and trendy! Some might think that my passion for fashion is frivolous or shallow. I prefer to think that my passion is an expression of who I am and have been since my first memories! I’m grateful to be able to express myself through my love of fashion with all of you who share a similar love! It always feels great to find your like minded people! YOU are my people!

Throughout this post, I’ve sprinkled some of my favorite fall looks and outfits that I think would be great to wear on Thanksgiving! This year anything goes and I suspect most might be reaching for comfortable leisure wear! What will you be wearing?

Happy Thanksgiving from Fashion Trends and Friends

Sherpa: My Closet (Maurice’s)
Sneakers: Steve Madden (DSW)
Leggings: Spanx

Last year, FTF published a post with almost the exact same title. To read last year’s post, click HERE. Although this year has been potentially the most challenging of any year that we’ve ever lived through our entire lives, I still believe we have an abundance of things to be grateful for on a daily basis! The question becomes what do we give out attention to each day? There is so much research indicating that what we give our attention to is what we get more of so why not focus on all that is good?!

Practice Gratitude

Button Up High Waisted Jeans: Express
Color Blocked Cardigan: Kohl’s
Leopard Booties: My Closet (DSW)
Leopard Pumpkin T-Shirt: Cali and Chance

While sheltering in place earlier this year, I completed an on line course through Yale University, which I blogged about here. (Psychology and the Good Life Yale’s beloved happiness class is now on the internet for free. Happiness, they say, is infectious. Perhaps that is why the most popular course ever to be taught at Yale University—this semester enrolling 1,200 students, or a quarter of the undergraduate student body—is one titled “Psychology and the Good Life.”). I was not surprised to learn that there is scientific research behind what really makes us happy and it’s not what usually comes to mind.

The behaviors scientifically linked to improved happiness include the following:

being kind

connecting with others

valuing time

meditating

getting more sleep and exercising

practice meditation and

GRATITUDE

The benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. People who regularly practice gratitude by taking time to notice and reflect upon the things they’re thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems. And gratitude doesn’t need to be reserved only for momentous occasions like Thanksgiving: sure, you might express gratitude after receiving a promotion at work, but you can also be thankful for something as simple as a fabulously fun outfit!

Research by UC Davis psychologist Robert Emmons, author of Thanks!: How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier, shows that simply keeping a gratitude journal—regularly writing brief reflections on moments for which we’re thankful—can significantly increase well-being and life satisfaction. Do you keep a gratitude journal? I should get better at doing this although I try to dedicate some time at the start and end of my day to reflect on my gratitudes and all that is good in my life! I had my special education students start every day with writing at least three things he/she was grateful for in their journals to set the day up positively!

My Top Five Gratitudes

Cream Colored Hoodie: Express
Fringed Booties: My Closet
Brown Leggings: My Closet
Plaid Jacket: My Closet

When I read over what I listed as my top five gratitudes in last year’s post, this year’s list is exactly the same despite all of the challenges, ups and downs and crazy roller coaster ride that 2020 has been! What’s important to me hasn’t changed one bit! I’d even keep the list in the exact same order!

I choose to focus on my gratitudes every night. As I lay down to go to sleep, I recount all the things I’m grateful for that day before drifting off. I prefer to fall asleep thinking about all that is good!

Thankful T-Shirt: Amazon
Cardigan: Target

Let’s Chat

FTF wishes you a very Happy Thanksgiving! May your hearts be filled and grateful today and all year long! Do you practice gratitude? What are you thankful for? Leave us a comment! We’d love to hear from you!

Beige Booties: Kohl’s
Faux Leather Leggings: Amazon
Plaid Wrap Jacket: Chicwish

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Ella’s Bubbles

When Modeling Becomes a Relaxing and Therapeutic Experience

When Julia, the Social Media Manager of Ella’s Bubbles, reached out to me to model using their tub, I did what most would do. I researched the company and looked at their products. Of course, I wanted to make sure that the company and the offer to model were legitimate. Once I was confident in the offer and job expectations, we agreed on the logistics.

Upon arriving, Julia and Brian, the videographer, immediately put me at ease. They were both warm and welcoming. Mr. FTF and I were taken to see the tub set up and the area where we’d be working. After changing into my swimsuit and bathrobe, Brian explained all the workings of the tub. He and Julia were so well organized and had a list of photos and videos they wanted to do. I appreciated knowing that information in advance.

Mr. FTF got to hang in the background and take pictures of the pictures and all of the action! I’m glad we got to capture Julia and Brian at work!

Ella Elite Dual Massage Walk-in Tub

Some of the benefits include the following:

Microbubble Therapy by Ellas Bubbles, delivers incredible chemical-free hydrating and exfoliating benefits while you soak.

While you relax, billions of tiny bubbles saturated with oxygen burst around you, cleansing while lifting away impurities and dead skin without the use of additional soap, bath oil, or other products. 💦

This tub does all the things you could imagine and more! There are several massage settings, foot massage, Light Chromatherpy, wine tray…and the list goes on and on. I probably won’t do it justice trying to explain all the bells and whistles so take a watch!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYvTD77Q7-g&feature=youtu.be&ab_channel=Ella%27sBubbles

The massage jets and bubbles are very relaxing! With the candles lit and a class of wine, I could almost forget where I was and why I was there! Who doesn’t love a bubble bath?! It was truly a spa experience!

Ella’s Bubbles Final Photos

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the day! We also did a lot of close up photos of me using all of the features such as the handles, pushing the buttons, turning the water off and on, operating the drains, using the hand held shower all of which were very easy to operate!

That’s a wrap! While I was paid for my time modeling, this is not a sponsored post and solely my own opinion.

To find out more about Ella’s Bubbles, you can click on the following:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Ella’s Bubbles * 2101 S. Carpenter St. Chicago, IL 60608 * (1-800-480-6850)

Shop My Swimsuit and Bathrobe

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What did you think of this amazing tub? Would you like to have your own personal spa at home? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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Stylish Monday and Link Up Party

Our Boots Were Made for Talk’in About

Boots! It’s officially boot season – fall and winter is upon us shortly! You might be wondering what the current boot trends are for 2020. Combat boots seem to be all the rage right now! My initial thought on this trend was that combat boots aren’t really for me. While I’ve seen many others wear them and look so cute and fashionable, it was a trend that I wasn’t quick to jump on. Although I have a pair of Guess biker boots that are embellished with pearls and metal studs from several years ago. You can guess that I liked them because of the embellishments! You’d be correct! Embellished anything is always a win for me!

Over the knee boots have been trending for quit some time and continue to be popular. This is also a trend that I was not quick to jump on due to the fact that I felt most pairs I tried on caused my thighs to bulge over the top. Not a good look!

Booties (ankle boots) are an easy trend for all to embrace and they look good on everyone! Boots can complete a look and bring it all together! Today you can find boots in every color, style and height so find what you love and they’ll look amazing on you.

Not surprising my boot collection is too vast to share in one post. I’m opting to share with you how I took two trends that I thought weren’t for me and am now loving them…over the knee boots (yes, I’m late to the party but better later than never I suppose) and combat boots! I particularly like to share how we shouldn’t limit our thinking and give things a try that might be out of our comfort zone because you never know what you’ll end up loving and what can look very stylish despite your initial thoughts!

Over the Knee Boots (OTK)

This trend has been and continues to be going strong. As stated, I’ve really liked this trend I just didn’t think OTKs looked good on me. However, I never gave up trying to find a pair that I liked and that looked good. Success! These OTK boots were ordered on line this fall. I’ve worn them twice and am always trying to think about additional ways to wear them and style them with other outfits.

The first way I styled them was with my Spanx leggings, an oversized boyfriend blazer and ruffled blouse. All items I’ve had for some time. The black leggings and the OTK black boots elongates and thins out my legs. A column of color tends to be very slimming and figure flattering! If you wanted to go for a more casual look, you could unbutton the blazer and wear a hoodie underneath. Hoodies with blazers or with jackets are currently trending as are oversized blazers.

Ruffled Blouse: My Closet (Chico’s)
Boyfriend Blazer: My Closet (New York and Company)
Spanx: My Closet

The second way I styled my OTK boots is with this flannel plaid dress. Plaid is always a favorite of mine and deep red is a winter trend color. This dress is very soft and has pockets. When it gets colder, it will be easy to wear tights with this outfit. I opted to add this Oscar de la Renta scarf that I’ve had since the late 1980’s. I love the shimmery gold threads, paisley design and color combination. I wore this look to work even though I’m working remotely I do best when I’m fixed up. This would be a cute look for Thanksgiving and dinner out (if that’s still an option in your area). Because of the baby doll style of the dress, there’s lot’s of room for eating! LOL!

Plaid Dress: Target
Oscar de la Renta Scarf: My Closet

SHOP THE LOOK

Combat Boots

As mentioned, this is a current trend that I had ruled out as one that I would be embracing. That is until I saw these Jessica Simpson combat boots with rhinestone buckles and rhinestones around the toe! The strap buckles and various colored rhinestone trim are what sold me! Sure enough…I love them. I just recently received them so I’ve only styled them one way but am looking forward to wearing them with many outfits to come and the endless styling options!

These plaid pants with tuxedo strips are from Anthropology. I liked the mix of the black and white plaid with the black, olive and blue shimmery side strips. The jacket and the ruffled top (same blouse worn with the boyfriend blazer above) give the look a dressier feel. I can also envision the boots with skirts, dresses, jeans and a graphic tee. The styling options will be endless!

Jessica Simpson Combat Boots: Dillards
Tuxedo Pull on Pants: Anthropology
Three Tiered Necklace: White House Black Market
Ruffled Blouse: My Closet (Chico’s)
Jacket: My Closet (Stein Mart)

SHOP THE LOOK

Slouchy Boots

Slouchy boots can be knee high, calf high or ankle height. The fit is usually somewhat loose, which is flattering on most legs! Slouchy boots can be paired with skirts, pants, jeans, leggings for endless options! I purchased my knee high slouchy boots last year and am still enjoying them this year! Most recently I’ve paired them with a sweater, which I purchased at Glik’s on our fall trip to Saugatuck and a much loved worn often pair of distressed jeans. I also featured this outfit in my recent Mid-Life Millennial post, which you can read HERE.

Last year, I styled the slouchy boots similarly with an oversized sweater and my Spanx leggings.

SHOP THE LOOK

Fun Boots

How would you define fun boots? I think fun boots are different colors, have some element of interest and catch your eye. I’m opting to share my light pink Chinese Laundry boots with block heels and silver grommets. as I’d define these as definitely fun and different! Every time I wear them, they get lots of compliments. I purchased them last year and continue to enjoy them this year.

I most recently wore them on Saturday for a get together with my IG girlfriends. Paired them with my new black jeans, pale pink reversible cami and blazer from What to Wear in Traverse City, MI. Two women in line at the store were loving on my boots!

Blazer: What to Wear (Traverse City, MI)
Reversible Cami (pink/white): Express
Black Jeans: Old Navy
Pink Boots: Chinese Laundry Amazon
Lisa of Evolving.50
Michelle of Over Fifty and Blessed

Sweater and Puffy Vest: My Closet
Spanx: My Closet
Pink Boots: My Closet (Chinese Laundry from Amazon)

Last year, I wore them with my snakeskin print Level 99 jeans from Evereve and pink sweater from Express.

SHOP PINK BOOTS

Boot Styles of My Fellow Lifestyle and Fashion Blogging Friends from Around the World

Ada – Elegance and Mommyhood –

Oh I am dying over this boots+booties post because that’s what I wear for 6 months here in Michigan. Today I styled my new faux suede taupe ruched boots by Target in a monochrome grey+taupe look that matches my leafy background. These boots looked so good with my grey moto jeans from Nordstrom (old) and my leopard tunic sweatshirt by Abercrombie (new). The mauve mini velvet crossbody bag added an additional texture to the look and I love the mild print-mixing with my herringbone newsboy cap.

Andy – Pearls and Pantsuits –

I’m styling my absolute favorite taupe suede block heel boots. I’ve had them for several years and love them for both their versatility (I mean…the color goes with everything!) and their comfort! I have a wide calf, so finding boots to fit is a challenge for me. I don’t mind splurging when I find a pair that fits!

Emma – Style Splash

Boots are my favourite type of footwear and I have many pairs in different styles and colours. I usually prefer darker colours but I’d been looking for a pair of white or cream knee boots for a while when I spotted these on sale. They were too good to resist! I really like the chain detail on the heel…and they make a change from brown and black!

Nancy – Nancy’s Fashion Style –

I adore boots and especially ankle boots! These gun metal ankle boots are one of my favorite! Actually, I love all of my ankle boots. It’s a addiction, lol.

Nicole – High Latitude Style –

It was like you switched a button. From one day to the other fall turned to winter – Alaska winter. We are breaking one negative temperature record after the other. Today in the morning, it was -32C (-25.6F). The old record was -24C (-11.2F) in 1999. Average high is -5C (23F) and average low is -13C (8.6F). Well, obviously, that’s weather, not climate. And it means boots are a must when you want to wear a skirt. Well, I am a die-hard skirt and dress gal. Thus, I bite the bullet.

Nina – Sharing a Journey –

I love a good pair of boots to create a seasonal look even though the weather isn’t cool. (Nina lives in Florida.)

Shelbee – Shelbee on the Edge –

Boots are my very favorite footwear ever. I am always drawn toward bold statement boots, too. It was so hard to choose which pair to feature for this month’s theme, but I finally settled on these over the knee lace boots from Shoe Dazzle, one of my favorite places to shop for shoes. I bought these a few years ago and they were really tight around the calves, but after losing a few pounds they now fit perfectly. I paired them with a long forgotten taupe chiffon and lace dress from a few years ago. Recently, I have not had much reason to get dressed at all let alone dressed up, so I used this style prompt as a reason to go all out dressy!

Suzanne – Ask Suzanne Bell –

Everyone needs a classic boot; a workhorse that you can wear every day, day or night – season after season. I own 2 pairs of this classic block heel boot, one brown, the other black from Tory Burch. And though they look alike, they are actually quite different. Yes, they DO have the same heel (which I LOVE), but the brown pair is a slouch tall boot – the black, a side zip classic black boot. I rarely purchase anything in doubles, but these boots are that good.

Let’s Chat

Hopefully you’ve gotten some boot styling ideas and some inspiration to try a pair of boots you might have not considered in the past! Did you have a favorite? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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Fashion Trends and Friends Decor

Back Porch Make Over Part 2 of 2

If you recall back several months, Lori reached out to me to assist her in taking her deck from good to great! To see Part 1 of 2, click HERE. She really was interested in sprucing up the appearance and getting more use of her outdoor living space! Lori wanted a space that was welcoming and fun for her and her family to spend time together! In the Part 1 of 2, I share my love of interior design. When Lori reached out to me, I was more than happy to help. Not to mention we have fun no matter what we’re doing…fashion, decor, eating, drinking, laughing!

We really thought this project would be done much quicker than it was but due to Covid, shipping challenges and damaged items, it took much longer. However, it was well worth the wait!

The Finished Deck

Before and After View 1

You can see the great transformation! Although we started in the summer, Lori finished putting it all together in the fall. We agree that the rug adds richness and texture to the space. Height and visual interest was added with the tall planter and lanterns. Lori wanted some additional light sources besides the outdoor light on her house. We had ordered a planter for the table under the window but it was disproportionate and didn’t look right. Instead Lori added the glass vase with assorted pumpkins and guards. The table seemed too empty so she added some additional pumpkins and guards on the corner of the table. In the summer, she’ll fill the glass vase with shells. Switching out the decor for the various seasons will spruce up the area and keep it inviting no matter the season.

The candles in the lanterns are battery operated. You can see that we also added rope lighting around the railing to the deck.

Night view with the lanterns lit and the rope lighting on…Lori loves when she comes home and her hubby has the deck already lit up for her to enjoy!

Before and After View 2

Lori ordered two small teal colored pots for her tables. I recommended she plant something in them with a little height and color. Lori will be able to plant seasonal flowers in the pots throughout the year. In addition, she added several pumpkins to her tables. You can see the other tall planter between the chaise and the chair adding height, color and interst.

Before and After View 3

The third planter is shorter than the other two and fits nicely into the corner between the two chairs. I recommended that Lori plant something tall in the pot. She’s enjoying the fact that the leaves on this plant are changing with fall. You can see the second teal colored pot and pumpkins on the table.

Night view of the same area.

View 4

Lori shared that she now has double the viewing pleasure! Not only does she enjoy being on her deck and the new improved decor, but she’s also enjoying the view from inside her house! Here is what she sees inside her house looking out.

Additional Items

The rug at the back door was looking kind of “ratty” in Lori’s terms. We ordered a new rug with an M. When it arrived, Lori decided it looked better at her front door. Therefore, she purchased another rug for the back door.

Lori’s talented neighbor made her a wreath for the back door from the flowers in their yards making it extra special!

Before and After Side by Sides

As I was putting together this blog, I texted Lori these side by side before and after pictures. Here’s her response: “Wow!! They really show the difference! Before it looked so cold and barren. I really love it Jules! Thank you!! The rug grounds it all and pulls it all together. Remember when you asked me about a rug and I immediately said no. So glad you helped me to change my mind!”

Virtual Shopping

As previously mentioned, Lori and I did all of our shopping on line while I was with her. All of the items she purchased came from the following: Grandin Road, Pottery Barn and Amazon. It’s super easy to work with Lori because she knows what she likes and is very decisive! I’m really looking forward to Lori’s next project!

I think you’ll agree that similar to an outfit the accessories complete the look! In this case, the accessories completed the look and feel of the deck and pulled the deck space together into an inviting, happy space!

This is not a sponsored post and solely our own opinions.

Let’s Chat

Do you need some assistance with designing or decorating a space in your home? Maybe it looks good but with a little assistance it could look great! Maybe you’d like some fashion advice or assistance finding the perfect outfit. I’m happy to help with either or both! Drop me a comment or send me an email.

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