White Now

via Pinterest

I'm giggling at myself for writing that title. I wrote it with the connotation of "wear white right now", then read it and realized that, when read aloud, it sounded like someone with a speech impediment.

Go ahead. Read it in an Elmer Fudd voice and see if you don't crack yourself up.

via Pinterest

Wascally Wabbits aside (gah, I'm just too much!), we're talking about the non-color white and why it's A-Okay to wear it during the cooler/cold months. In fact, tons of mega designs houses like Prada, Celine and Chanel did white for their Fall 2011 collections. Although in my opinion, no one does a white moment better than Rachel Zoe right now...gaw, she's good.

 Rachel Zoe Fall RTW, Cacharel Fall 2011 RTW,

I'm not bold enough to wear my summery white skinny pants, (I know, I'm a pansy), but I do think I'll attempt a white sweater, dress or stark white pea coat this fall. The only thing I'm still on the fence about is white shoes. I'm not convinced white shoe wearing is ever appropriate after Labor Day.

via The Sartorialist

I think it's a really chic trend though, no?

In other news, today is our 2 Month Wedding Anniversary! Two months ago, on this very day, I said "I DO!" to the love of my life. I don't think I've ever laughed louder or loved harder than I have in the past 60 days in my entire life.

I love you to the moon, darling man!

Be blessed, lovelies-

Rusty

"Tin roof!....Rusted!" - The B 52's

It's Friday, thus a nod to one of the greatest one hit wonders is in order, no?

M'kay, so let's talk about this orangey, brownish, reddish color that's taking the world by storm currently. I mean seriously y'all, rust is dominating shelves and racks this fall, (in addition to a large part of my closet), and the good news is, peeps of all skin tones and hair/eye colors can wear it well...a bonus? Me'thinks so.

Arcadian Terrace Lightweight Cardigan,  , Orchard Hill Waist Tie Jacket , Ellis Nautica Striped Cardigan

Naughty Monkey Tightrope shoe

via Pinterest

Arlington Pleated Chiffon Top and Suomi Sweets Skirt in Rust

Belmont Faux Suede Shorts and Namoli Structured Satchel

Sometimes, ladies, it's good to be a little rusty : )

On a warm and furry note (literally) we have a new baby! He's a bouncing 65 lb. German Sheppard with hazel eyes and big paws. Mom, Dad and puppy are all doing well : )

Meet Cash

Seriously though, someone dropped him in our neighborhood on Monday morning (we think). He was scared to death and soaked from being out in the rain. Since we only have one dog, who coincidentally is also a German Sheppard, we figured, "What the hey?" His first vet appointment is tomorrow morning and he seems to be adjusting pretty well to The S Household. We named him Cash, after Arkansas's own son, Mr. Johnny Cash, aka the Man in Black.

And finally-finally, who says marriage kills the romance in a relationship? Look what my hottie husband sent to me at work this week...mmmmhmmm. (Thanks hun - you are the best!)

Be blessed (and have a great weekend), lovelies-

Trend Watch Wednesday: {Colorblocking Is Still Cool}

File this under: Trends That Were Popular This Past Summer & Are Still Cool for Fall

Colorblocking was hot-to-trot this past summer and dagnabit, it's still hot now. (Yep, I just said dagnabit. Call me Elmer Fudd.) I love the idea of taking something from a previous season and giving it a facelift for another - so much fun and a GREAT way to stretch your wardrobe from season to season!

For transitioning the colorblocked look into fall, you've gotta go toward cozier colors. You can still use bright colors, but keep them grounded and earthy by using neutral colors as the base of your palette. (Earthy? What the heck is up with my lingo today?)

Take note below of how a few stylish females pulled off colorblocking during cooler weather:

Emma Stone rocks her bright fuschia with fire hydrant red - a color commonly associated with autumn. And Razorback football : )

Not sure who this is, but she sure knows how to colorblock. Love the unexpected pop of Barbie pink amongst all the browns and tawny tans.

If ever there were a perfect colorblocking palette for fall, this would be it. Hello brick red and chocolate brown...so nice to see you!

So yeah, ga'head and give the ole colorblocking maneuver a second try this sesason...you might rediscover your love for cross-seasonal trending.

*All pics used in this post were taken from Pinterest. The collages with color samples were made by moi. Please seek consent before re-using.

Be blessed, lovelies-

Red Shoes



This weekend entails a lot of nothing for S and I. We fully intend on kicking up our feet and watching some great recorded TV, eating some bad-for-you food and catching the new Red Riding Hood movie. I know it looks kitschy, but we love Amanda Seyfried and it looks fun and tres sexy.

Another thing I'd love to do this weekend is to look for a great pair of red shoes. I just bought my first ever pair of red kicks from Maude earlier this winter and love them!

My own red beauties from Maude Boutique!

I wear them far more than I ever thought I would, which means my $29 investment was a good one : )


Marc Jacobs 683964


But the reason for searching for another pair of red shoes isn't solely to expand my footwear collection (even though, selfishly, that's part of it.) I'm actually taking part in the Red Pump Project for the remainder of March. I will wear red shoes at least once a week and once a weekend until April.




Note: I meant to post about this yesterday, on THE DAY I WAS SUPPOSED TO, but completely forgot. Apparently wedding planning has me losing my mind.

The Red Pump Project raises awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls. Red Pump uses the red shoe as a symbol of empowerment to represent women affected directly and indirectly with HIV/AIDS.

Of course I've been scouring the web for cute kicks this week, so y'all wouldn't have to search high and low for red shoes, if you decide to participate ; )



Steve Madden "Toppazz" in Red Suede



If you feel so inclined, join me in sporting red kicks for the month of March- I'd love to have some company!

Be blessed, lovelies-

Pink, Blue and Gold, Too!

I was flipping through sites online last week and stumbled upon these gorgeous photos from the spring 2011 campaign for Blumarine's latest Blugirl line. The pink, blue, hot red and gold were almost too much to stand, and I mean that in a good way.

With model Leah de Warvin carrying the campaign, this line is bound to sell. I mean, it sold me almost immediately. Gaw...perfection.

all images via Blumarine

This playful and flirty photo spread makes me want to don some pink and blue and paint my nails fire engine red.

And, um, not that I'm biased or anything, but I love that they featured a blonde : ) We do have more fun after all...ha!

I positively die over the Blugirl line, howevs, my budget doesn't always allow me to spend $400 on a dress, (and I have a feeling I'm not alone.) Don't be afraid to create your own "inspired by" look with less expensive items from other retailers. I did below:

(Clockwise from top left); Kate Spade Licorice in Pink Suede, MAC lipglass in Steal My Heart; Joan & David Flipp heel; Wanda Dress by Jones and Jones via Topshop; Polka Dot Animal Coat Hook from ModCloth

Does this campaign make you swoon as much as it does me?

Be blessed, lovelies-

Made You Blush

Hi, howdy and hello...welcome back from 'le weekend.

Lately, I can't help but notice all of the pale blush tones sweeping the fashion world. Like the dresses of Emma Jones and Claire Danes at the Golden Globes last weekend, peachy pinks, roses, tans and nudes will be de riguer this spring.




Vince Camuto Norda; Steve Madden Mercyy; Marc Jacobs 615976; Elizabeth and James Mazi; Hive & Honey Genne; Jessica Simpson Brinna
collage by A Blonde Ambition (please seek permission for re-use)

 I'm not especially wild about the Day-Glo neon shades that will also be popular in the coming months, so this color trend is like a breath of fresh, flowery air.


Cream Cornelli Neck Dress from Topshop; Cream Tassel Sleeveless Blouse from Topshop; Apricot Double Ruffle Tunic from Topshop



Nude Curly Ruffle Mesh Push-up Bra from Topshop; Balm in Sheen from Topshop; Street Level 103 Clutch; Nails in Hide and Seek
above collages by A Blonde Ambition- (please seek permission before re-use)

Some tips for wearing blushes and nudes:

-If you're pale, go for rosey hues and pinks. If you're olive, peachy corals and nudish tans are the way to go.

-If you're wearing a blush colored dress, go for a gold shoe. It will contrast nicely with the lightness of the dress but is easier on the eye than a heavy black shoe.

-Gold jewelry goes best with all shades of blush. Steer clear of silver- go for the gold.

Are all things coming up rosey for you this spring?

Be blessed, lovelies-

Something Blue

 

Naomi Watts via Ellen von Unwerth


I don't know what it is about winter that makes me want to wear blue, but it seems every time the weather gets colder, I go in search of cerulean, teal, navy and cobalt. I've even been known to sport a blue, smoky eye from time to time.

Things to love about blue:

-It's a universally flattering shade. You can have red, blonde, brown or pink hair and still be able to rock this hue.

-Blue is the color of serenity and luck. No wonder brides often wear it on their wedding day!

-Blue conveys importance and confidence without being somber or sinister, hence the reason corporate execs and politicians choose it as their go-to "power" color.

-It's less expected than black, but more slimming than white : )

-It's Leslie's birthstone.  Two of the loveliest birthstones are blue, sapphire and blue topaz (December babies, holla.)

1) N.Y.L.A. Kama boot; 2) Premium Pale Blue Snow Jewel Dress from Topshop; 3) Premium Sequin Wrap Skirt from Topshop; 4) Eyes in Uniform shadow from Topshop; 5) Faux Lizzard Skin Box Bag

I'm desperately seeking the perfect blue military jacket to wear with skinnies and riding boots this winter, sewwwww....if you girls have suggestions, please send links my way!

We've got a couple of pretty solid (yes, I just said solid) guest bloggers coming our way tomorrow and next Monday, one of whom may or may not be the elusive "S". The other? The not-so-elusive Sarah from The Strength of Faith talking about her Wear a Dress Tuesday movement. In summary- get excited.

Be blessed, lovelies-

Seeing Red (and craving Fritos)

Yippee yay, Friday is here, y'all! How pumped for the weekend are you beautiful Blonde Ambitioners?!

Does anyone have exciting plans? Some college football watching, perhaps? The Hogs are playing Louisiana-Monroe in Little Rock instead of Fayetteville this weekend, so I'll be listening in on the radio rather than actually being there in person. My parents live about 45 minutes outside of Little Rock though, so they might go represent for me : )

Oh, yes, I forgot to tell you guys...if any of you are homebodies like me and will be doing the majority of your football watching from the comfort of your couch this season, head on over to Boo Mama's blog for some delish dip recipes that are PERFECT for fall football weekends. She did a special Diptacular last year and I got so many awesome, artery-clogging recipes from it.

I've never met a Frito I didn't like and dip just seems to be the ideal food item around this blessed time of year.

Dip. It's a good thing.

Anyway, enough about the joys of finger foods...let's move on to something completely calorie free- game day fashion.

Particularly, Razorback game-day fashion.

Last week we looked at some adorable tops and dresses from one of my favorite local stores, but this week I wanted to spotlight accessories. Because Lord knows an outfit is never complete without the perfect pair of earrings or a coordinating clutch.

Can I get an Amen and a handclap of praise?

You'll notice all of them are red because red is the color of Hog Nation. I since I live in Hog Nation...well...you get the picture.

Big Buddha Meredith clutch, $45

How Deep Is Your Love Ruby Necklace from Ruche, $15.99

Two-Tone Eternity Scarf from Anthropologie, $168

Westside Shopper from Nine West, $89

Dome Cocktail Ring by House of Harlow, $65; Gladiator Cuff by House of Harlow, $55

Your recommended daily allowance of randomness:

-Ever wonder what the shape of your lips says about your personality? Yeah, me either. But Self Magazine recently put out this fun little article claiming that certain lip shapes reveal the details of one's personality.

For instance, my lip shape most resembles Mila Kunis's (turns upward and pulls inward at the upper corners). Apparently this means I am dreamy and hopeful! Give it a try and let me know what your lips say about you!

-Jessica Simpson can now add denim designer to her resume! The Dukes of Hazzard star launched her new denim line on Wednesday night in NYC, complete with skinny jeans, chambray shirts and even denim dresses. If her new duds are anything like her shoe collection, these jeans will be adorbs!

-Check out the latest post from one of my favorite Christian writers and bloggers, Jon Acuff. It's called Wondering Why God Makes Life Impossible Sometimes. I think you'll enjoy it as much as I did.

Have a great weekend, girls. See you back here Monday!

Be blessed, lovelies-

Photo credits: Google images, Anthropologie, Piperlime, Ruche, Glamour.com

Trend Watch Wednesday: Purple Haze

Chanel blush in Plum Attraction and nail polish in Paradoxal, available at Neiman Marcus

Happy Wednesday, Blonde Ambitioners! This week has been another crazy one at work, so needless to say, I'm ecstatic that we're thismuchcloser to the weekend.

For the first time in a few weeks, I'm actually sore following last night's workout. I went to yoga yesterday evening (back to Level 4 again following the Great Yoga Disaster of 2010, haha) and was still pretty energized after it was over. So I thought I'd take advantage of the post-yoga endorphin rush and hit the treadmill for some good ole' cardio. I have to say, there's no better feeling than the one you get following an amazing sweat session, even if it does mean my calves are killing me today : )

On an unrelated note, The Rachel Zoe Project's new season premiered last night on Bravo and I was so bummed that I missed it. As most of you know, she's a fashion role model of mine and I got hooked on her show last year. I can't wait to watch and find out about all the drama surrounding Taylor and her reason for leaving Team Rachel...drama!

Speaking of fashion related things, what do you say we take a look at some of the new fall make-up colors today?

This autumn, it's all about deep purples, rich beiges and smoky grays for nails and eyes.

Particuliere, Nouvelle Vague and Paradoxal

Last spring, Chanel debuted their amazing gray nail polish Particuliere and beauty mavens everywhere went nuts. In May, Beyonce appeared in the Telephone music video with Lady Gaga sporting some day-glo nails in another Chanel shade, Nouvelle Vague. Once again, make-up junkies flocked to cosmetics counters across the U.S. in search of this mega-bright lacquer. And this season, they've done it again. Meet the new "it" polish for fall/winter 2010, Paradoxal.

Celebs like Rachel Bilson are already addicted to this almost indescribable eggplant hue.

Nars polish in Purple Rain, available at Nars Cosmetics online

Nars' new electric purple shadow, Daphne

Our friends at NARS have also done an equally fabulous color that's very similar to Paradoxal called Purple Rain and a killer new shadow called Daphne, named after spokesmodel/socialite Daphne Guinness (above.)

Richie rocks a purple smoky eye look at a recent charity gala in Los Angeles.

Starletts like Nicole Richie are also using plum shades on their peepers. A purple-n-gray smoky palette is flattering on almost every eye color and can add depth and drama to any make-up look. My current favorite is Guerlain's Ecrin 6 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette in Champs-Elysees (below).

Guerlain Ecrin 6 Couleurs palette in Champs-Elysees

So what about it? Do you think you'll be trying the purple haze look this fall?

Be blessed, lovelies-

Photo credits: Chanel, Style.com, NARS

Blushing

"My colors are blush and bashful...I have chosen two shades of pink; one is much deeper than the other."- Shelby from Steel Magnolia's

Good morning and welcome back from the weekend. I trust that everyone enjoyed the past two days of work-free bliss as much as I did.

I wish I could tell you I was super-productive, but that would be a lie; just lots of sleeping in, shopping and catching up with friends. I did, however, find an adorable dress yesterday for my trip to CA next week, so it wasn't a total wash : )

Anyway, to start our week off right, let's take a look at one of my favorite summer color trends, blush. Shades of nude, rose, rust and mauve are scorching hot right now and are great substitutions for neutrals like khaki, tan and black.

1. Nina Ricci handmade acetate sunglasses engraved with flower pattern

2. Satin mule by Rochas

3. NARS nail polish in Orgasm

4. Crocodile "D" bag by Tod's

5. Crocodile "Papier" bag by Tod's

6. Legere cardigan by Madewell

7. Fallen Needles skirt by Madewell

8. Maxi clutch in Suede by Aperlai by Burak Uyan

9. Tie-back wool jersey dress by Emilio Pucci

10. Aston high-heel sandals in Napa leather by Jimmy Choo

11.Soma dress by Elizabeth and James

12. Small ID bracelet with pink opal and pink sapphires by Ann Dexter-Jones

Did I make you blush?

Be blessed, lovelies-

Photo credits: {a glamorous little side project} , style.com