The Retail Therapy Diaries

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Ice Cold

It has been over a month since the world was introduced to the magical and icy kingdom of the newest Disney film Frozen, and the movie's success has continued to snowball with the film's recent Golden Globe award for Best Animated Feature Film! From the charming characters to the catchy musical numbers, it is not hard to see why the world has fallen in love with Frozen. If you are anything like me, and the obnoxious number of Frozen fans out there, you have probably had "Do You Want to Build a Snowman" stuck in your head for a solid few weeks now. Inspired by the snow covered landscapes of Arendelle and the cozy Scandinavian patterns worn by Elsa and Anna, I created modern takes on the characters outfits by mixing colors and textures. Is your outfit in need of a "Fixer Upper?" Let these outfits inspire you to add some spark to your winter wardrobe!

Frozen Inspired Outfits

Top: Black Sweetheart Crop $10.00 (Select Fashion)

Skirt: Yellow Tweed Mini Skirt $146.00 (Avenue 32)

Shoes: Platform Court Shoes $41.00 (H&M)

Bag: PU Frame Clutch Bag $43.00 (Accessorize)

Necklace: Green Stone and Crystal Octagon Pendant Necklace $22.00 (Macy's)

Earrings: Nadri Snowflake Stud Earrings $ (Bloomingdale's)

Top: Metallic Jacquard Front Shell Top $33.00 (House of Fraser)

Skirt: Fresh Slice Maxi Skirt $25.00 (Nasty Gal)

Shoes: Chinese Laundry Perfect Ten Pump $42.99 (6 PM)

Hair Clip: Pearls and Crystals Hair Comb $19.99 (Target)

Earrings: Gold Border Pearl Stone Stud Earrings $6.56 (New Look)

Dress: Lipsy Sheer Panel Embellished Bodycon Dress $48.00 (House of Fraser)

Shoes: Modern Vice Adele Platform Pumps $52.49 (Macy's)

Bag: Ballroom Clutch Bag $48.50 (Accessorize)

Bracelet: Platinum Plated Snowflake Pendant Bracelet $17.41 (Bridgat)

Top: Windsmoor Ivory Bead Trim Top $25.00 (John Lewis)

Skirt: Tianna Embellished Mini Skirt $49.95 (Forever New)

Shoes: Michael Antonio Love Me Suede Pumps $49.00 (Zappos)

Bag: Neon Hard Clutch $24.90 (Delia's)

Top: Black Bustier $25.00 (Warehouse)

Shorts: Charli Scallop Hem Shorts $32.00 (Boohoo)

Shoes: Side Zip Peep Toe Booties $15.00 (Body Central)

Bag: Braided Fringe Hobo Bag $26.90 (Wet Seal)

Necklace: Gold Antler Necklace $30.00 (Etsy)

Tights: Edna Fleece Tights $18.00 (Pieces)

Dress: Blue 50's Flare Belt Dress $35.00 (Dorothy Perkins)

Jacket: Cropped Boucle Jacket $29.99 (Mango)

Shoes: Worthington Daniela Tall High-Heel Boots $26.99 (JCPenney)

Scarf: Eira Long Wool Scarf $34.00 (Pieces)

Earrings: Betsey Johnson Silver-Tone Crystal Crown Stud Earrings $26.00 (Macy's)

Inspired? Look for these items here:

www.selectfashion.com

www.bloomingdales.com

www.houseoffraser.com

www.houseoffraser.com

www.dorothyperkins.com

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Crossing the Line

It is the new year and it is time to welcome in new trends! For a while now the cosmetic world has been all about bold lip products, from lipsticks to lip stains. Though I do not see this lippy trend going out of style anytime soon, why not experiment with something new? Lately, I have become a big fan of bright and sparkly eyeliners. Throughout the holiday season, I relied on my gold eyeliner to help add a festive touch to my outfits. Depending on the color you choose, sparkle eyeliners can either be statement making, or just a nice accent to a bolder lip color. Personally, I have not quite gotten used to darker lip colors, so I decided to incorporate color into my everyday makeup routine in a more subtle way. Great for an evening look, brighter liner colors such as turquoise and hot pink really pop when the sun goes down. Similarly, more subtle color such as navy blue and gold can work for the day when your black eyeliner starts to get a little boring. Are you a fan of bold eyeliners? Or are you more of a bold lip fan?

Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner $19.00 (Sephora)

Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Liner $19.00 (Sephora)

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner $20.00 (Sephora)

NYX Liquid Crystal Liner $4.50 (NYX Cosmetics)

Loreal Paris 24 Hour Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Liner in Black

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Royal

Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Radium

Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in El Dorado

Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Bobby Dazzle

The Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner has a flexible sponge applicator that makes for easy application. While I love the color of the liner, I think this brand was my least favorite. In order to obtain a rich color, several coats were needed.

In the past, I used the Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eye Liner for my everyday black liner, but have recently switched to the Loreal Paris 24 Hour Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Liner. The sharp point of this felt tip applicator is so easy to maneuver and can create both slim and thick lines with the tilt of the pen. Not only does this liner last longer, but it does not run after several hours like the Maybelline one. My new favorite!

I am not usually a fan of bristle tip liquid liners because they are harder for me to create precise lines, but surprisingly this applicator was simple to use. The Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner comes in a wide range of sparkly shades that really pop. I like to pair my colored eyeliners on top of my black liner so that I don't lose the dimension that the darker shade provides. The only downside of this product is that it starts to flake after about 9 or 10 hours, which is not really that bad. But when it claims to last 24 hours, I expect it to last longer.

Inspired? Look for these items here:

www.lorealparisusa.com

www.sephora.com

www.nyxcosmetics.com

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

Inspired? Look for these items here:
www.forevernew.com
www.nordstrom.com
www.oasis-stores.com
www.forevernew.com
www.maxandchloe.com
www.nordstrom.com
www.selected.com
www.6pm.com
www.forever21.com
www.piperlime.com
www.newlook.com
www.modcloth.com
www.macys.com
www.newlook.com
www.monshowroomvip.com
www.monki.com
www.forevernew.com
www.dsw.com
www.theoutnet.com
www.selectfashion.com
www.solesociety.com
www.pinkmascara.com
www.beauty.com

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

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)

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.charlotterusse.com

www.bathandbodyworks.com

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

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

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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: