Giveaway Winner! and dressing for the cold… Brrr!

And the moment we've all been waiting for! The winner of the $25 Jade Mackenzie gift card is…..

Michelle Eisele!

I've already emailed Michelle and I hope to see some pics of what she decided to buy! Congratulations and thank you to everyone who participated!

This past weekend I traveled to Chicago, Illinois to watch my brother graduate from Navy boot camp. Never again will I visit Chicago! It was ridiculously cold there! This was the temperature the night we got there… -17 degree wind chill!

The morning of graduation, we had to stand outside in a line for about an hour in about -15 degree wind chill. After about 15 minutes, my feet started burning and very soon after, I couldn't even feel them. Never again will I complain about our 30 degree days here in Texas! Here's my handsome brother after he graduated…

Now as far as dressing for the cold, I think I did a pretty good job. The only part of me that got REALLY cold (and never really seemed to warm up) was my feet. I had two pairs of socks with one being a wool pair. The boots I was wearing were North Face snow boots. Specifically the Women's Abby IV Luxe. They work very well in our 30 degree weather but there in Chicago, I just couldn't seem to keep my feet warm! Maybe some of you who live where it's colder can give me some tips!

My jacket, however, was AMAZING!! I got the Women's Parkina Down jacket from North Face. The website didn't have my size so I searched the web and found my size in red on Amazon. I would definitely recommend North Face to anyone looking for a good warm jacket. They are pricey but they are well worth it. The jackets also have a lifetime guarantee so if anything breaks or comes apart, they will fix it for free. I didn't even have to wear a hat since the jacket came with the fur lined hoodie. It is removable in case you want to take it off.

I was definitely worried about my legs staying warm since I only wear skirts. I had on long johns, fleece lined leggings, and my thick lined skirt. I didn't feel cold at all! Except of course when we had to stand outside for an hour! On top, I only wore long johns and a thin sweater. My jacket kept me plenty warm! Gloves are also a must in that weather. The ones I had on were a gift and they did the job just fine. 

I did get VERY tired of all the layers I had to put on and take off every day. I don't think that I could live in that kind of weather. I am definitely ready for sunshine and flip flops!

Ease into Neon

If you haven't noticed by now, neons are everywhere! Clothes, shoes, accessories, even Sharpies! If you've been afraid to try wearing it, be afraid no more! Here's some tips to help you add some brightness to your outfit.

Now I'm not one to wear a lot of black in the summer, but I knew that black would really make this color stand out!

If you're afraid to try a bright shirt all by itself, layer it underneath something. I layered this top with a lace moto jacket. This jacket is great for warm weather! It breathes well since it is lace. You can find one in black or white here. 

If you are still afraid to try a lot of brightness at once, start small. Wear a neon scarf with the same color neon sandals. Or use a neon purse. You can even go smaller and start with an accessory like a watch, or headband.

This top is great for layering. It's loose, comfy, and cool. Great for when you feel bloated and blah… if you know what I mean ;)

 This maxi skirt I found on sale at Dillard's a while back for $12! It it kind of long though, so I had to wear my highest heels with it. Just FYI, if you have a Dillard's in your area, my sister in law told me that they're having a big sale this week. In fact, I'm sure most stores will be having a sale soon since they need to start moving out all the spring/summer clothes and bringing in the fall clothes. Keep an eye out!

 * Jacket & top: Forever 21 * Skirt & shoes: Dillard's *

XOXO

Carmen

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Lunch with the boys

Today I got to go have lunch with two of my brothers. This doesn't happen very often, since they are both in high school and both VERY busy! So, instead of getting all dressed up, I kept it casual but still a little frilly :) I am the only girl after all.

 Today is the first day that I've been able to pull out my flip flops! The weather was extremely warm today and I was soo happy! These wedge sandals came from Target.

This cute little cardigan came from TJ Maxx. It is a pretty blush pink with a lacy back. I completely LOVE that store, as any fashionista does. If you've never been there before… GO!

This lace shirt came from Macy's. I found it on clearance a couple of months ago. There is a similar one  here. 

Now, let me tell you about this AMAZING undershirt I am wearing. It is 3/4 length and has a higher scoop neckline. They are super comfortable and great for layering. I have one in every single color they have available! They wash really well and don't lose their color. They are great to put under sheer tops, dresses, or anything else you may need some cover with! You can buy them HERE! The color I am wearing is called dusky green but to me it looks more like grey. They are very true to size and are very form fitting. This works perfect if you want them underneath clothes. If you want it to fit looser, go a size up.

My jean skirt is from SteinMart. It seems like SteinMart always has great skirts for a good price. Its always hard to find longer lengths but I can always find some there.

Well, Spring Break is almost over :( But, luckily for me, summer is just around the corner! Stay tuned for more soon!

Carmen

XOXO

Matthew 6:25-34

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