The Diaper Bag, Not just for Babies Anymore

Last week I got some big news. This little known Social Media Specialist, fashion and Disney Blogger got a job working for the website of a major network in NYC. Being the fashion obsessed girl that I am, my first thought was, “how can I commute in comfort and style?” Right now, I go to and from work with two-three bags depending on the day.  Since, I will be traveling by bus and/or train that simply won’t do. While browsing the Vera Bradley website and with a little advice from Mom I found my solution, The Baby Bag.

I know what you’re thinking, but let me let Vera describe this bag to you, “Our latest Baby Bag has a total of 11 pockets inside and out, including a full zippered back, and holds everything from bottles to extra clothes. We’ve added a special clip for disappearing pacifiers and lined the interior for easy cleaning. Also includes a 26″ x 14″ terry-covered changing pad with coordinating trim.” Where a Mom sees 11 pockets and a zipper back for bottles, pacifiers, and toys; I see a place for my cell phone, iPod, Kindle, pens, and a travel mug/ water bottle. Enough room for extra baby clothes and diapers works perfectly for gym clothes and a notebook. It’s also lined so I can carry my lunch without worrying that it will ruin my expensive bag. Not to mention you can wash it.

Oh and there’s that changing pad for dirty diapers. Since the bag costs around $100 I wanted to make sure I was getting my money’s worth. I have come up with 3 alternative uses for the changing pad.

1. Keep it in the bag as an extra piece of lining or a divider between your lunch and other important items.
2. If you eat at your desk and you’re a little messy like me, use it as a place mat.
3. I currently use mine as a bath mat. It’s a decent size and absorbent. When you aren’t using it throw it over the side of the tub and hide it with a shower curtain. It’s completely washable as well.

Sometimes we working girls need to be a little resourceful to be both successful and fabulous.

Tags: 2012, Accessoires, Bag, Chic Stimulation, Color, fashion, lifestyle, Office, Vera Bradley

Friday Fav: A Jenner in NYC

This week’s Friday Favorite comes from a picture of Kim K.’s little sis. Kendall Jenner can be seen strutting her stuff down the streets of NYC in a super cute aqua mini and blazer combination. It has been pretty chilly in the tri-state area lately, hence the tights, but with May just around the corner I wanted to update this look slightly for late spring. It’s brought to you by Urban Outfitters and Forever 21.

Urban Outfitters:
Skirt: $39

Forever 21:
Essentials T-shirt: $5.80
Blazer: $27
Sandals: $32.80 (This is my update, go for a fun chunky wedge)

A brightly colored, soft mini skirt is a must have for summer. Pair it with neutrals on the top. Switch up that look! You don’t always have to go for bright tops and basic bottoms. Be colorful and sophisticated in one outfit.

Tags: 2012, Chic Stimulation, fashion, Forever 21, Kendall Jenner, lifestyle, Spring, style, Summer, trends, Urban Outfitters

The Face Series: Episode 8

Now, that we’ve gone over cleansing and basic facial hygiene it’s time to move on to makeup. After moisturizing most women move on to foundation or concealer, but what they don’t know is that they are missing the most important part. There is one step in-between moisturizing and foundation, and that step is primer.

I have been using primer for about a year and a half now, and I must say it is definitely a game changer.  It is a soft, clear gel that you rub (a little amount) into your skin. It helps to set your face up for foundation and helps your makeup to last longer. In the year and a half I have been using primer I have tried two kinds equal in quality. I began with Smashbox Photo Finish and today, I am currently using Mary Kay Foundation Primer. Both products feel like you are rubbing silky pearls into your skin. Makeup goes on easier and lasts a noticeably longer amount of time.

For Smashbox, you can buy this product in different sizes with prices ranging from $17-$49. It’s full of vitamins and antioxidants to help make skin look fresher. It also reduces the appearance of fine lines and pores.

The Mary Kay primer is $16 and enriches your skin with minerals leaving it bright and flawless. It makes blending makeup easier for an even finish.

Primer is an extra step and a few extra dollars. And, is totally worth it! Add another minute to that morning routine and look fabulous all day long! Come back next week for Episode 9, foundation.

Tags: 2012, Beauty, Chic Stimulation, hygiene, lifestyle, makeup, Mary Kay, Primer, Smashbox

Teaching Effortless Style

Last night, I went to see The Lucky One for the second time to accompany my friend Lauren, who could not attend Friday’s girls night.  (My Review: The book is better and nothing like the film, but seeing yummy Zach Efron again was worth the $9. All in all, as a girl I enjoyed it.)I was going to miss Fashion Star, which is my usual Wednesday Post. I needed to use the film to come up with a great post for today. Throughout both viewings of the film I admired the character Beth’s wardrobe; lightly colored, flowy cotton blouses, a really cute jacket, boots, and sandals. My favorite part was the delicate gold heart necklace she wore in each scene. The clothes were so simple she seemed effortless. The character is a substitute teacher asked to take the position of a teacher on maternity leave. During that scene I looked to my left and realized Lauren has the exact same job. And, that is when the inspiration bell started to ring again.

Teachers are always on their feet and always have an audience. To get through their day they should dress comfortable and sensible without giving up their style. I believe Beth in The Lucky One Portrays that perfectly. Dayna Pink did a fantastic job picking out looks for the film. With a little help from the Gap, I believe I came up with a whimsical spring outfit for my teacher friend.

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Smocked blouson top $49.95

Broken-in straight khakis $49.95

1969 favorite denim jacket $79.95

Beaded T-strap sandals $39.95

East West Tote $39.00–$52.00

Lauren is a very pretty girl with a tomboy personality. She is fun and loud. I didn’t want an outfit that would out shine her great personality. I kept it very simple with bottoms and a top with a basic jacket over it. I wanted to use light, feminine fabrics and simple color to show how lovely she is without being overly girly. Spring trend alert: pastel pants are all the rage! Pick them up for casual outtings or a day in the office. I also added the Vera Bradley bag (practical for papers) and colorful sandals for a ladylike, softer side.

Tags: 2012, Beth, Chic Stimulation, Color, Dayna Pink, fashion, Gap, lifestyle, Spring, style, The Lucky One, trends

Taking a Cue from 90210

As a working girl in a casual office I often wonder what I would wear to work this time of year if I had to get dressed up. The weather is fickle in the springtime, going from warm to cold from rain to shine. Take this morning for example, it was cold and rainy when I left the house in navy blue polka dot wellies and a bright red raincoat. Boy, do I look stupid now that the sun is shining! I’m getting sick of the same old jeans and boring tops. I try to blend in when I long to standout. I want an excuse to dress like the girls on my favorite TV shows.

My dream ensemble would have to be wide, flowy tuxedo pants, a sheet blouse, a cardigan sweater, and wedges. It’s practical for work, cute and trendy, as well as, comfortable for the ever changing spring weather. When creating this outfit in my head I couldn’t take full credit because I stole the look from 90210’s Naomi Clarke.

Each item comes from the ever fashionable and affordable Forever 21. Did I mention each item is under $30? Well…they are!

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Essentials Button Cardigan, $13 (I have one of these and I’m going back for more colors. Great quality for a cheap price and you can wear it over anything)
Polka Dot Shirt, $18 (Please wear something other than a bra underneath this haha)
Wide Leg Tuxedo Pants, $28
Buckled Wedge Platforms, $27 (Depending on where you work you might want to swap these out for basic heels, but I love the wedge with these pants)
Top Handle Cross Bag, $27
Skinny-Tri Buckle Belt, $5.80

One of my favorite ways to get inspired is by unwinding each night after work with one of my favorite shows. That’s where I got the idea for this outfit. It’s a great way to relax and discover something new, such as, clothing, home décor, a dream job, a relatable story line to help you in your life, etc. It also acts as a great escape from a stressful day. So tune into 90210 tonight at 8:00 on the CW and get motivated.

Tags: 2012, 90210, Chic Stimulation, Color, fashion, Forever 21, lifestyle, Naomi Clarke, Spring, style, trends, Tuxedo Pants

Green Glam and Earthy Couture

In honor of Earth Day (which was yesterday), I wanted to look at some apparel companies who are doing their part to help the Earth’s future while keeping us fabulous.

H&M recently went eco-friendly with their conscious collection made of entirely sustainable materials. The collection is the retailer’s first attempt at red carpet looks and elegant evening gowns. Celebrities like Michelle Williams and Viola Davis have been seen in some of these pieces. The clothing is made out of recycled polyester and cotton hemp. The collection ranges from $19.99-$299.

On to another eco-friendly company; Toms!  Now, most of us already know the story behind these giving shoes, but here’s a recap. With every pair of Toms you buy they will donate a pair to a needy child in one of 20 countries throughout the world. Toms are a sustainable shoe and some are 100% Vegan helping to keep our world smiling. Not only do they give back to the people they give back to the place they live.

Last, but definitely not least is Vaute Couture (pronounced like vote) a vegan company with a store located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The name is play on Haute Couture, but the H is replaced with a V for vegan. The company believes animals are our friends and we can still dress great and feel great without involving them in the process. The clothing is 100% recyclable material and cruelty free. The company specializes in beautiful coats, but has branched out a little. This is my ploy to shop locally; another way to do our part. http://www.vautecouture.com/index.htm

This is our world and we have to live in it and our children have to live in it and so on. You love fashion? So, shop for at least one eco-friendly item and look fashionable while taking care of our planet. Even you can make the slightest difference. All it takes is one person to do one little thing. Happy Earth Day!

Tags: 2012, Chic Stimulation, Color, Earth Day, Eco-Friendly, fashion, H&M, lifestyle, style, Toms, trends, Vaute Couture

Friday Favorite: Do the Kelly Ripa

This week’s Friday Favorite comes from an image of Kelly Ripa at the TV Land Awards. I couldn’t resist picking this look due to the electric royal blue color, adorable black bow, and basic black pumps. Wedding and prom season are here giving me the perfect excuse to cheaply recreate it for you. Here are two different options to help you achieve this look.

Modcloth Dresses:
AS you Lake it Dress: $54.99
In your Own Bright Dress: $69.00

Vince Camuto, Black Faux Patent LAeather Studded Bow Buckle Skinny Belt, $28
Forever 21, Basic Black Pump, $16.80

**Today I launched my Disney Blog: Discount Disney. Please give it a read: discountdisney.wordpress.com**

Tags: 2012, Chic Stimulation, Color, Dress, fashion, Friday Favorite, Kelly Ripa, lifestyle, Prom, style, trends, wedding

The Face Series: Episode 7

One of the most important parts of taking care of your face is moisturizing. If you have cracked dry skin, normal skin, or even oily skin a good quality moisturizer is right for you. It will help to improve the look and feel of your skin just by using it once a day. Simple as that! Without it your skin will end up flakey or have a serious case of redness. It takes only a few minutes to purchase one and only a few seconds to apply it.

When purchasing a moisturizer it’s important to look for oil free to prevent breakouts and an SPF. By protecting your skin from sun damage SPF acts as an anti-aging agent. The sun ages you quickly…can you imagine what Snooki will look like in 20 years? Trust me; it’s never too early to worry about anti-aging. Take care of your skin now and it will thank you later! Here are some of my favorite moisturizers:

Hope in a Jar by Philosophy is absolutely my beloved moisturizer. It’s light weight and feels silky smooth on your skin. It protects, hydrates, and even exfoliates your skin. Made for medical purposes at first, it truly is one of the best products on the market for skin care. 2oz sells for $39 at Sephora.  Make sure you by the version with SPF.

For those of you, who want similar results that Hope offers you, but for less money I say, go for the Aveeno Positively Radiant Moisturizer with SPF 30. It prevents dry skin without being oily and leaves a fresh dewy glow upon your face. The SPF 30 will protect your delicate skin from the sun and from becoming shoe leather. It sells at drug stores for about $6 (give or take a few dollars and cents).

Now-a-days my go to moisturizer is the Even Better Skin Tone Moisturizer by Clinique. It deeply hydrates while erasing the appearance of scars and dark marks. The SPF helps to prevent more damage creating healthy, even, younger looking skin. It’s up there in price at $44.50, but it’s worth it.

Take the time to apply moisturizer and look years younger down the road. It’s an easy way to continue looking fresh and fabulous.

Tags: 2012, Aveeno Positviely Radiant, Beauty, Chic Stimulation, Clinique, Even Better Skin Tone, Hope in a Jar, hygiene, lifestyle, Moisturizer, trends

The Comfort Zone

On last night’s episode of Fashion Star the designers were asked to step out of their comfort zone and design something they never have before. In doing so, Orly (who did not a get a buy) and last night’s winner Luciana Scarabello helped to keep us in our comfort zone.

Both women designed light weight cropped jackets (Orly’s went from long to short her usual trend) perfect for this time of year. For most people when they head to work in the morning it starts out at 40 degrees and gradually gets warmer as the day goes on. That makes it very difficult to pick out what to wear. Not to mention the ever changing office temperature going from hot to cold to hot again. A cute cropped jacket just happens to be a wonderful solution for this time of years fickle temperatures.

Scarabello’s  jacket is full of intricate details from the fabric choice to the pointed hem, and the braided chain trim. You can purchase an affordable cropped jacket pretty much anywhere, but if you love this one it sells at Macy’s for $99, not too bad for a versatile piece of clothing. You will get your money’s worth wearing it up or down.

-Wear it over a dress for an evening out.

-Wear it with a skirt and blouse for work.

Wear it over jeans and a plain T-shirt for every day wear.

If $99 is a little out of your price range check out these alternatives:

Sandy Cropped Jacket from G by Guess (amazon.com), $50

Rounded Hem Jacket Forever 21, $28

Shrunken Leather Jacket From the Gap, $298 (This is my bad, when I first saw it I though it said $29, but it’s still fun to look at)

So grab a cropped jacket in the morning, take it off in the warm afternoon sun, and put it back on for your journey home. You’ll be comfortably adorable.

Tags: 2012, Chic Stimulation, Color, Cropped Jacket, fashion, Fashion Star, lifestyle, Luciana Scarabello, Macy's, Spring, style, trends

Get the Look: Summer Music Festival

Over the weekend many celebrities stepped out for weekend one of Coachella. They looked comfortable and at ease in their summer, hippy inspired looks. For those of you who don’t know, Coachella is a three day annual arts and music festival in California.

Now that the warmer months are here (it’s 9am as I write this in my notebook and it’s already almost 70 degrees) we too need some awesome outdoor concert clothes. For an event like this think short shorts, flowy tanks and tops, sundresses, sunglasses, and a light jacket or cardigan for when it gets dark. Remember to include one or two summer trends to the mix, like bright colors or an animal print. Don’t forget funky sandals and a really cute hat. It’s easy and affordable with help from American Eagle. We don’t need designer duds to achieve the same look.  Each item is under $50.

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American Eagle Outfitters Ae Peace Cutout Crop Tank, $25

American Eagle Outfitters Ae Soft & Light Cardigan, $40

American Eagle Outfitters Ae Printed Empire Waist Dress, $40

American Eagle Outfitters Ae Dark Denim Hipster Shortie, $37

AEO Cutout Lace-Up Sandal, $34.50

American Eagle Outfitters Aeo Whipstitched Satchel, $30

View the whole thing on my Polyvore: http://www.polyvore.com/get_look_summer_music_festivals/set?id=47348364

 Let’s do summer concerts in style.  I know I will come the end of May at the Great GoogaMooga. So get dressed and get down!

Tags: 2012, American Eagle, Chic Stimulation, Coachella, Color, Concert, fashion, lifestyle, style, Summer, trends