Tuesday, December 31, 2013

In With the New

It has been a little over two years since I have started The Retail Therapy Diaries, and I am excited to say farewell to 2013 with my 200th post! This past year has definitely delivered some unforgettable memories and life changes and I am both eager and nervous to see what the new year will bring.

Seeing that it is both New Year's Eve and TRTD's 200th post, I figured it is only fitting that this post focuses on outfits for parties and celebrations! All the looks below will help you to ring in the new year tonight, and celebrate with family and friends tomorrow! 

I wanted to thank all of my followers who have stopped by to read my posts (despite the inconsistency, sorry!). From long time followers to new fans, I appreciate all the support I have received over the past two years. Thank you so much and have a wonderful time saying goodbye to 2013 and welcoming in 2014! I will see you next year!

New Year's Party Looks

Untitled #175

Top: Vivienne Short Sleeve Bodysuit $24.99 (Forever New)
Skort: Topshop Satin Skort $80.00 (Nordstrom)
Shoes: Camilla Sparkle Peeptoe Court $49.00 (Oasis)
Bag: Audrey Foldover Clutch $34.99 (Forever New)
Ring: Gold and Emerald Enamel Jess Ring $26.00 (Max and Chloe)

Untitled #176

Romper: Topshop Pleat Front Chiffon Romper $92.00 (Nordstrom)
Tights: Sel Tights $14.00 (Selected)
Shoes: Pruss Booties $45.99 (6PM)
Bag: Fancy Quilted Shoulder Bag $24.80 (Forever21)
Necklace: House of Harlow 1960 Station Necklace $75.00 (Piperlime)

Untitled #177

Top: Kelly Brook Black Embellished Neck Cut Out Blouse $16.00 (New Look)
Skirt: Stripe It Lucky Skirt $42.99 (Modcloth)
Bag: Giani Bernini Wallet $29.99 (Macy's)
Shoes: Red Platform Court Shoes $33.00 (New Look)

Top: Sequin Blouse $74.00 (Mon Show Room)
Skirt: Blanka Skirt $41.00 (Monki)
Bag: Keira Wallet $19.99 (Forever New)
Shoes: Fergalicious Dreamer Wedge Pump $46.95 (DSW)

Untitled #178

Dress: Rag and Bone Renard Metallic Jacquard Dress $560 (The Outnet)
Bag: Metallic Lace Box Clutch $16.00 (Select Fashion)
Shoes: Cap Toe Pumps $64.95 (Sole Society)
Earrings: Belle Noel Studs $27.50 (Pink Mascara)
Eyeliner: Urban Decay Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner $19.00 (Beauty)
Posted by at 6:14 PM 0 comments

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Gifts Galore

It is that time of year again where streets and stores are decorated with festive holiday decorations. From twinkling lights to sparkly ornaments, the holidays just seem to start earlier every year. I recently moved to San Francisco for school, and have been enjoying all the decorations throughout the city. My favorite decoration so far is the giant Christmas tree in Union Square overlooking the outdoor ice skating rink. While the weather has not been terrible over here, the bright lights and festive music are especially helpful on the colder, windier evenings. I'm looking forward to seeing how different the city will look after Thanksgiving once the holiday season really starts!

The Holidays in San Francisco


Macy's tree in Union Square


Ice rink in Union Square


Decorated Macy's windows


Christmas tree at Pier 39

With Thanksgiving being less than a week away, this also means that the start of the holiday shopping season is less than a week away! It may seem like it is a tad early to start thinking about finding the perfect gifts for your friends and family, but once Halloween ends, the last few remaining weeks of the year just seem to race by. I have put together a few fashion and beauty related gifts to help get you started. Hopefully they will provide some inspiration as you start creating your Christmas lists this year.

Holiday Gift Ideas

Untitled #173

Gifts $20 and Under

Essie Nail Color 2013 Holiday Gift Set $14.99 (Target)
AEO Bow Tie Necklace and Stud Set $9.30 (America Eagle)
Ho Ho Ho Bath Gift Set $14.95 (Lush)
Rhinestone Bracelet Watch $20.00 (Nordstrom)
Eiffel Tower Jewelry Dish $8.50 (Charlotte Russe)
Solid Butterfly Knit Infinity Scarf $14.75 (Aeropostale)

Untitled #174

Gifts Under $50

Black and Silver-Tone Stud Earrings Set $30.00 (Guess)
Merona Kimberely Tall Elastic Boots $39.99 (Target)
Professional Envelope Satchel $27.80 (Forever 21)
Draw the Line Eyeliner Set $30.00 (Sephora)
Bite Beauty Best Bite Set $25.00 (Sephora)
Jasmine Vanilla Aromatherapy Gift Box $35.00 (Bath and Body Works)

Surprise! 

Technically, the Precious Stones Giveaway is still going on, but because I know the holidays can get chaotic, I wanted to put together a holiday giveaway while I still have the time to blog! In addition, I wanted to make sure that the lucky winner gets their prize before Christmas! 

Gifts Galore Giveaway


Enter to win the Sephora Favorites Lash Stash Gift Set!

Inside this set is ten different mascaras and one pair of false lashes! Get holiday party ready this season with this handy set. 

What's Inside?

-Benefit Cosmetics They're Real Mascara
-Blinc Mascara
-Buxom Blackest Black Mascara
-Clinique High Impact Mascara
-Lancome Hypnose Drama Mascara
-Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara
-Sephora Collection Outrageous Volume Mascara
-Tarte Lights, Camera, Flashes Statement Mascara
-Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
-Yves Saint Laurent Volume Effet Faux Cils Baby Doll Mascara
-Sephora Collection False Eye Lashes in Celebrity

How Do I Enter?

1.) Be a fan of TRTD's Facebook Page
2.) Leave a message on the wall stating your favorite things about the holiday season. Is it picking out the perfect tree every year, or watching the Charlie Brown Christmas special on tv with family? In addition, if there is anything you think I could add or change about my blog to make it more enjoyable, please leave a note in your message!
4.) Spread the word about my blog (though not required!)
5.) That's it! Good luck!

Giveaway Ends on December 20 2013

Don't forget about the Precious Stones Giveaway! You have one more week left to enter! Click here to find out how to enter and win a ring charm necklace or gold bow studs!

Inspired? Look for these items here:
www.target.com
www.ae.com
www.lushusa.com
www.nordstrom.com
www.charlotterusse.com
www.aeropostale.com
www.guess.com
www.target.com
www.forever21.com
www.sephora.com
www.sephora.com
www.bathandbodyworks.com
Posted by at 9:01 PM 0 comments

Friday, November 1, 2013

Precious Stones

I apologize for the lack of posts lately! I've been experiencing a lot of new changes in my life lately so I haven't been able to spend as much time blogging as I would like. It definitely doesn't seem like it has been two months since my last post. Time goes by much faster than we think!

During the last part of my summer vacation I was able to take a family trip to Japan for two weeks. Much like a child in a candy store, I was mesmerized by all of the adorable accessories, cute clothes, and pretty shoes. One thing I noticed while adventuring around Tokyo, were all of the accessory boutiques with tables full of delicate jewelry. Though they had some statement necklaces and chunky bangles, majority of the rings, bracelets, and necklaces had small charms with delicate detailing on them. It definitely seems as though Japanese women enjoy more subtle jewelry that can be paired with a good portion of their wardrobe, rather than spending money on a bulky trendy piece that may only be paired with an outfit or two. I stocked up on several rings and bracelets and was delighted to find that they actually make accessories that can fit my unusually small fingers and wrists.

I even found a few things to share with my readers! All the way from Japan, I brought back a pair of delicate gold bow studs, and simple necklace with a dainty garnet ring charm on the end. Guaranteed to go with just about anything in your closet, both of these pieces will look great with casual outfits or a more dressed up look. With the holidays just around the corner, they will add just enough sparkle to your outfit!

Interested in winning one of these prizes? Just follow the steps below for your chance to add one of these pieces to your accessory collection!

Delicate Jewelry Giveaway


Gold Bow Studs


Garnet Ring Charm Necklace

Giveaway Rules of Entry

1.) Be a fan of TRTD's Facebook Page
2.) State which accessory you are interested in winning (you can say both too!)
3.) Leave a message on the wall stating your favorite fall or winter staple. Are you a fan of boots for the colder months? Or are you all about big chunky scarves?
4.) Spread the word about my blog (though not required!)
5.) That's it! Good luck!

Giveaway ends on November 30, 2013
Posted by at 12:29 AM 0 comments

Friday, August 16, 2013

A Sticky Situation

After months of eyeing nail sticker packets in the cosmetic aisles, I finally gave in and decided to give them a try. I was drawn to Loreal's Colour Riche Nail Lingerie stickers in the design, In With the New. The silver glitter fade starting at the base of the nail looked both classic and fun, and I thought that it would match well with a wide variety of different pinks. For the base color, I went with Deborah Lippmann's hot pink shade, Daytripper, and prepped my nails for the stickers. To my dismay, the stickers were less than spectacular and I ended up having to peel them off. Let's just say that you could definitely tell that they were stickers. Once on the nail, they puckered at the tips creating an undesirable "plastic" look. I attempted to layer on more nail polish to try and smooth over the bumps, but nothing seemed to work. Nail stickers are a great idea, but I think that they need to figure out a way to create products that are rounded-nail plate friendly!



Loreal Paris Colour Riche Nail Lingerie
in 705 In With the New
$8.95 (Loreal)

Not one to be conquered by nail troubles, I decided to create my own glitter fade manicure. With a fine glitter polish, I started at the base of my nail, and applied a line straight across as if I were creating a french manicure. Then I positioned the brush straight up and down and dabbed lightly upward to create the faded look. Finally, I finished off my nails with a quick dry top coat to make my manicure last, and shine!


Deborah Lippmann in Daytripper $17.00 (Nordstrom)
Sparitual in Golden Rule $10.00 (Sephora)
Revlon Quick Dry Top Coat $4.99 (Target) 


Liking the way that my nails turned out, I decided to reverse the fade and have the glitter start at the tip of my nails. I personally liked my second attempt better, but I think that might just be because I like this color combination better.


Sally Hansen Gem Crush in Razzle Dazzler $6.24 (Target)
Revlon Nail Enamel in Teak Rose $4.99 (Ulta)


Inspired? Look for these items here:
www.lorealparisusa.com
www.nordstrom.com
www.sephora.com
www.target.com
www.target.com
www.ulta.com
Posted by at 7:27 PM 0 comments

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Pixar Perfect Part Two

Over a year ago, I blogged my favorite post. Inspired by some of my favorite Pixar characters, I took elements from their respective movies, whether it be the location of the character's home or a particular color, and created unique outfits that were both fun and functional. So here we are today and I'm back with a whole new group of Pixar characters to build inspired outfits from! I've always been a fan of secondary characters who don't always get the recognition that they deserve, and this time is no different. From my personal favorite, Ratatouille, to the always classic Toy Story, I hope I covered some of your favorites! Enjoy and let me know if there is an important character that I might have missed! Haven't seen the original set? Click here!

Pixar Inspired Outfits

Untitled #166

Finding Nemo

How could I not include this sassy fish terrorizer in this post? From her girly lavender "Rock 'n'  Roll Girl" sweater, whose sparkles rival her extensive dental appliances, to her perfectly symmetrical pigtails, Darla is definitely a budding fashionista. Inspired by the contrasting teal and hot pink combo seen in her fish-tank-side photograph, I created an outfit that can easily go from day to night with a quick change of shoes and accessories! So take a lesson from this piranha from the Amazon and have fun mixing bright colors and lots of sparkle together!

 Top: Solid Shirt Tank $9.99 (Delia's)
Skirt: Taylor Fuchsia Belted Jersey Skater Skirt $31.00 (She Likes)
Shoes: Cotswolds Crunch Glitter Ballerinas $24.00 (Accessorize)
Necklace: Fish Pendant Necklace $17.99 (Mango)

Untitled #167

Toy Story

This loudmouth spud is always quick to provide a witty comeback, and he sure knows how to look good while switching between his "angry eyes."With a compartment full of removable accessories, Mr. Potato Head is always ready to put his best pair of blue shoes forward. Building off of his famously well-groomed mustache, I decided to create a casual, yet polished look that will keep you looking as presentable as the mister himself. Finish off your outfit with a simple clutch and don't forget to throw on your derby hat before you head out the door!

 Top: Good Thinks Shirt $53.00 (Conleys)
Shorts: Lost Shine On Denim Shorts $39.99 (Tilly's)
Shoes: 9 and Co. Ultima Wedge Sandals $26.00 (JcPenney)
Bag: Miracle Purse $11.00 (Monki)
Hat: Black Bowler Hat $19.00 (Fashion Union)

Untitled #168

A Bug's Life
Just like his colorful personality, Heimlich's exterior is just as bright and inviting. Very few animated characters can pull of such a wide variety of greens without being associated with the word evil, but this chubby caterpillar somehow makes the hue charming. Complimenting his perfectly rosy cheeks, Heimlich's red mittens add an extra pop of color for that perfect finishing touch. As an added bonus, the orange, yellow, and white of those delicious candy corn bits help to bring out his natural glow. To finish off my inspired look, I added a delicate butterfly bracelet for a hint of shine. 

 Top: Topshop Stretch Crop Top $16.00 (Nordstrom)
Skirt: Even and Odd Pleated Skirt $39.00 (Zalando)
Belt: Michael Kors Black Polished Gold Belt $42.00 (Zappos)
Shoes: Red Herring Coral Cross Strap Wedge $38.00 (Debenhams)
Bracelet: Alex and Ani Butterfly Bangle $28.00 (Bloomingdale's)

Untitled #169

The Incredibles

Who says wearing all black has to be boring? Sit down and take notes, this feisty fashion designer demonstrates how to feel like a superhero in basic black. With her bug-eye frames, perfectly shaped bob, and armadillo inspired sleeves, you know she means business. Create visual interest to a monochromatic outfit by mixing textures. I paired a simple jersey top, leather skirt, and suede heels together for this inspired look. For an even bolder look, add a bright pop of color with a chunky necklace or a fun bangle! Edna definitely knows that black can be just as exciting as brighter colors. Just remember, no capes!

 Top: Classic Polly Plains Capped Tee $58.00 (French Connection)
Skirt: Jules Leather Look Skater Skirt $30.00 (Boohoo)
Shoes: Black Mary Jane Strap Courts $59.00 (Dorothy Perkins)
Necklace: The Stella Summer Statement Necklace $25.00 (Amazon)
Bracelet: Goreski Glasses Bangle $78.00 (Kate Spade)

Untitled #170

Ratatouille

For an unusually glum individual, who has a fashion style to match, Anton Ego definitely knows how to pair cool tones together. As a food critic, it appears that he not only pays close attention to the latest dishes at Gusteau's, but pays just as much attention to the fit of his garments. For this inspired look, I decided to create a more casual outfit with reference to his favorite color palette. I even found a neat pair of earrings to pay homage to his passion for food! Last but not least, I selected a pair of pointy toed heels to mimic the sharp angles of his frame and his beak-like nose.

 Top: Purple Swing Cami Top $25.00 (Dorothy Perkins)
Blazer: Navy Blue Crepe Open Front Blazer $19.00 (New Look)
Jeans: Essential Skinny Jeans $46.00 (Jane Norman)
Shoes: Pointed Patent Leather Court Shoes $49.90 (Zara)
Bag: Feeling Quilty Purse $34.00 (Go Jane)
Earrings: Spoon and Fork Earrings $18.95 (Etsy)

Untitled #171

Monsters Inc.

I've got some good news and some bad news. First, the bad. No matter how hard we try, we will never be able to make pink and lavender look so gosh darn cute in the way that Boo so effortlessly accomplishes. However, the good news is that we can most certainly come close. When constructing this outfit, I had a hard time figuring out a way to prevent the look from seeming too "kiddy." By adding a leather belt and some wedges, I think I managed to save the outfit from becoming overly precious. As a finishing touch, I added a snake bangle to incorporate Celia, the other impeccably dressed female in the movie. 

 Top: Jane Norman Racer Back Crop Top $12.00 (House of Fraser)
Skirt: Cotton Mini Skirt $9.90 (Uniqlo)
Belt: Bubble Twist Lock Belt $36.00 (Topshop)
Shoes: Call It Spring Marceli T-Strap Wedge Espadrilles $38.00 (JcPenney)
Bracelet: Slink Bracelet $20.00 (Nasty Gal)


Untitled #172

Up

More beach bum than wilderness explorer, Russell's inspired outfit is perfect for a hot summer day. Pairing this look with a neutral belt and sandals, allows the brightness of the orange and yellow to take center stage! Kevin, Russell's trusty feathered friend, inspired me to create an outfit that is just as colorful as she is! Wanting to capture the flow of Kevin's feathers, I settled on a chiffon hi-low skirt, and paired it with a minty green top. Finished with bright yellow heels and a tangerine clutch, I figured a simple pair of earrings would be just enough to complete the look!

Top: Lime Double Layered V Neck Crop Top $20.00 (River Island)
Skirt: Orange Maxi Skirt (No longer available)
Belt: Pieces Galaxy Belt $13.50 (Asos)
Shoes: Prairie Grass Sandal $49.99 (Modcloth)
Bag: Patent Leatherette Clutch $29.95 (2B)
Necklace: Fire Balloon Shaped Long Necklace $1.76 (Wholesale-Dress)

Top: Green Lace Embroidered Top $15.00 (A Wear)
Skirt: Glamourous Dip Hem Skirt $40.00 (A Wear)
Shoes: Opened Toe Heels $39.00 (AX Paris)
Bag: Expressions NYC Faux Leather Box Clutch $36.18 (Nordstrom)
Earrings: Metal Bird Studs $48.00 (Marc Jacobs)

Inspired? Look for these items here:
Posted by at 11:57 AM 1 comments

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Hanky Panky

Here's one hanky you won't want to wipe your sniffles with! The handkerchief hem trend has a bohemian flair that is perfect for the summer months. With hems that form into points either off to the sides or in the front, this trend can be quite flattering in helping to create the illusion of a longer, leaner body line. From bold midi dresses to more subtle tank tops, this trend is easy to incorporate into your wardrobe. I especially like how these hems help to add some much needed variety to the basic straight hem. It's always nice to mix things up once in a while. Be on the lookout for this unique hem this summer. I'm sure you will be spotting them in stores and on the streets over the next few months!

Untitled #165

Cardigan: Zadig & Voltaire Fire Stripe Cardigan $165.00 (Jades 24)
Skirt: Mesh Skirt $22.00 (Rare London)
Mint Dress: Roxy Summer Bliss Dress $37.99 (Sundance Beach)
Leopard Print Dress: Xhilaration Handkerchief Hem Dress $24.99 (Target)
Patterned Dress: Preston Dress $35.20 (Billabong)



Untitled #164

Top: Floral Lace Swing Crop Top $19.00 (New Look)

Vest: Peace Denim Waistcoat $29.00 (Vila)
Shorts: Brave Soul Dip Dye Studded Denim Shorts $30.00 (The Hut)
Shoes: Twist Upon a Star Sandal $28.00 (Modcloth)
Ring: Kaia Ring $38.50 (Gorjana and Griffin)

Blazer: Blue Scuba Tux Blazer $90.00 (River Island)
Jeans: Black Distressed Skinny $37.00 (Warehouse)
Shoes: Mudd Ballet Flats $35.97 (Kohl's)
Bag: Top Handle Square Lock Satchel $33.00 (Oasis)
Necklace: With Love From CA Triangle Pendant Necklace $9.50 (Pacsun)

Skirt: Scuba Banded Mini Skirt $14.50 (A'GACI)
Shoes: Fawnia Platform $49.98 (Aldo)
Bracelet: Alhambra Bracelet $38.00 (Humble Chic)

Inspired? Look for these items here:
Posted by at 5:08 PM 0 comments

Wonderful Winner

Sorry for the late post, but the Key to My Heart Giveaway has closed and we have a winner! Congratulations to Lauren C. I will contact you for address information and hope to send you your prize as soon a possible. Thanks again for sticking with me! I appreciate all the support I receive from my readers. If there is anything that you would like to see on my blog, please don't hesitate to let me know. I'm always wanting to improve my blog in any way that I can. Enjoy and look out for another giveaway in the near future!

Key to My Heart Giveaway Winner

Lauren C.

Posted by at 5:06 PM 0 comments

Friday, June 7, 2013

Girly Grad

June is finally here and as schools prepare to close up for the summer, students prepare to enjoy a few months free of exams and homework. For others, the month of June means that it's time to graduate and explore new possibilities. While graduates are forced into the unknown of the real world, they don't have to be in the dark when it comes to their outfits for the ceremony! I just purchased my outfit for my graduation and thought I'd provide my fellow graduates with some stylish ensemble inspiration and options! Whether you decide on a bright color or a classic neutral, the key to a great graduation outfit is comfort! Remember, you'll be spending a great deal of time sitting down so you might as well be comfy! As for shoes? Heels and wedges can polish off any look from pretty dresses to sleek slacks. Being the nervous klutz that I am, I'll probably leave my wedges at home and bring my flats instead.

For those finishing off another year of school, enjoy the summer months and for those who are graduating, congratulations and best of luck in your future endeavors!

Graduation Outfit Ideas

Untitled #162

Dress: Black Petal Sleeve Dress $28.00 (Dorothy Perkins)
Shoes: Beige Metallic Trim Double Strap Heel $39.00 (Fashion Union)
Earrings: Hive and Honey Chevron Drop Earring $18.00 (Piperlime)

 Dress: Halo Strapless Mini Dress $62.00 (House of Fraser)
Shoes: Studded Peep Toe Platforms $39.80 (Forever 21)
Bracelet: Gold Look Loop Cuff Bracelet $22.00 (Dorothy Perkins)

 Dress: Jasmine Pleated Chiffon Dress $31.00 (A Wear)
Shoes: Volatile Becca Nude $49.99 (Zappos)
Necklace: Vintage Great Gatsby Necklace $138.00 (Pink Mascara)

Untitled #163

Top: Lace Front Tank $57.00 (Bardot)
Skirt: Black Textured Skater Skirt $44.00 (Dorothy Perkins)
Shoes: Steve Madden Tarrah Platform Sandals $49.50 (Macy's)
Hair Pin: Pinwheel Crystal Hair Pin $58.00 (J.Crew)

Top: White Lace Cami Peplum Top $40.00 (River Island)
Skirt: Lipsy Ribbed Skater Skirt $39.00 (Lipsy London)
Belt: Metal Leaf Waist Belt $7.99 (Wet Seal)
Shoes: Sperry Top-Sider Carisle Thong Sandal $95.00 (Sperry Top-Sider)
Earrings: Stainless Steel Feather Earrings $29.95 (Reeds Jewelers)

Inspired? Look for these items here:
Posted by at 10:34 PM 0 comments
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