Soft Surroundings Artist Topper | Easy Well-Made Style

Bohemian style is the concept of wearing clothing that’s free with flowing fabrics. It’s the perfect summer option because this style allows one to layer clothing and accessories.

Soft Surroundings is one of my favorite retailers.  The company specializes in soft, luxurious designs.

How does this relate to style bloggers? They have well-made affordable pieces for all age groups.  On-trend shoppers can find a Tie-Dye Jumpsuit while seasoned shoppers can purchase a Terry Pull-Over.

The company collaborated with this post; shipping an Artist Topper.  This versatile piece is lightweight with red tassels and kimono style sleeves.

The topper (in the photo below) was paired with a Felt Hat, Denim Shorts, and Ankle Booties.

Additional style ideas include wearing with High-Waisted Leggings or Jersey Dress. Visit your local Soft Surroundings for more easy, well-made style!

 

What I Wore: African Print Midi Flare Skirt and Accessories

I have not moved beyond the excitement centered around Essence Fest 2017.  The iconic “party with a purpose” is a must-attend experience!

When packing for such an event there are a few rules to consider.  Always plan for the weather in that region and review the itinerary in terms of walking.

I couldn’t cover the festival without packing my favorite African-Print (Ankara) midi skirt. Several people stopped and inquired about this particular piece. Here’s the secret:  it was purchased at a flea market in Alabama.

The style photo was taken in the New Orleans, Central Business District. Against my better judgement, I stood in the middle of street traffic to capture a decent shot.

Was this a little scary?  The answer is yes.  Was this mind-blowing?  The answer is definitely a strong yes!

 

Liberated Specialty Foods: Healthiest Secret in the South

The self-proclaimed “Healthiest Secret in the South”, Liberated Specialty Foods is the first-to-market Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) commercial bakery, selling dozens of food items online and nine distinct items for wholesale, including coconut and cashew bread, Paleo pizza crusts, pizza sauce, ketchup and more. Based in Madison, Alabama, the unique health-crazed company is taking the nation by storm and becoming more and more popular in areas all over. Having grown immensely in the last year, they can be found in major retailers (Whole Foods, Earth Fare, Nugget Markets, Raley’s, the Health Nuts, and more) and are baking up more and more new, delicious foods daily.

Liberated Specialty Food’s motto is they go “Beyond Paleo” by taking the paleo diet and removing the starches (like tapioca, cassava, arrowroot) and other additives (like guar gum). This makes their offerings even more simple and able to be consumed by those on a wide variety of diets outside of Paleo, such as the SCD, Keto, GAPS, Bulletproof, Feingold and more. They are an ideal brand, and the only brand, for many people who need to rethink their eating habits but don’t want to deal with the brutal elimination of favorite foods and the feeling of being left out when surrounded by people eating their most desired guilty pleasure foods. Imagine enjoying a delicious pizza crust with only 3 net carbs? Count us in!

Not only does Liberated Specialty Foods fill you up with delicious, clean foods but the story behind the company fills you up with inspiration and motivation for a better you. Founder Stacey Schlaman was inspired to start the business through her own struggles providing grain-free meals, with simple ingredients, to her own daughter who suffered from a number of autoimmune diseases. After breaking down in tears over the lack of ingredients and the immense time it took to prepare these types of food herself, she vowed to dedicate herself to making these foods available for others so that she could, in some way, help alleviate the heavy burden many of her customers were already carrying.

Liberated Specialty Foods™ goes Beyond Paleo and gluten-free eating to provide foods that can be consumed by those on special diets. In doing so, they use the healthiest ingredients for the highest quality foods. Five unique things to know about their products:

  • Products do not contain most starches and are gluten and grain free.
  • The Paleo branded products contain no dairy products.
  • The SCD™ and GAPS™ products may include the following dairy products: approved cheeses, farmer’s cheese, ghee, and specially made yogurt.
  • Products are sweetened with only honey, fruit and/or vanilla extract.
  • Consists of no unlabeled ingredients, such as “spices” or “natural flavors”

For more information about Liberated Specialty Foods or to view all product offerings, please visit http://liberatedspecialtyfoods.com/

Macy’s Backstage Outlet Store Grand Opening

Macy’s Backstage is a new outlet store located in select cities.  The department store is one of my favorite retailers because Macy’s has something for everyone.

Last weekend, the store hosted their Macy’s Backstage Grand Opening at The Riverchase Galleria.  The event included music, gift totes, and a selfie booth. Local shoppers came out to the event; eager to partake in the sales and discounts.

For shopping clarity, Macy’s will continue to function in it’s normal capacity.  What does that mean? Macy’s Backstage is actually located within the original department store. The outlet is it’s own individual area with reduced merchandise and checkout.

Ultimately, Macy’s Backstage is an opportunity for customers to get their favorite products at a reasonable price.

 

GLO GIRL Cosmetics | Summer Looks and Product Review

My favorite beauty product is a tube of lipstick.  It can refresh the face and update your overall look. Can’t afford a surgical procedure, then purchase a new lipstick! Feeling tired or under the weather? Apply a bright-colored lipstick as a mood enhancer.

GLO GIRL Cosmetics – Lipstick Shade: Happiness

Kimono from Amazon.com

GLO GIRL cosmetics shipped a gorgeous palette of lipsticks.  The company believes in, “Lipstick with a fierce attitude.”  Personally, that’s enough for me to wear their products!  After testing and reviewing various shades, GLO GIRL lipsticks held its color and hydrated my lips.

There was no need to use lip-gloss after application.  The gold colored tube added a touch of glamour to the product.

Photo via IG stories @kwest1908

Visit GLO GIRL cosmetics to purchase your own set of edgy lipsticks!

 

What To Wear: AMI Clubwear Affordable Swimsuits

Buying the perfect swimsuit can be a difficult task.  There’s a conflict between looking our best and feeling comfortable.

AMI Clubwear has a wide selection of fashion-forward swimsuits. The online boutique’s a great option for vacation packing or water activities.

The Tribal Mesh Cut One-Piece (shown below) was an excellent addition to my swimwear wardrobe. It’s lightly padded with adjustable straps. Going to the pool or beach with my kids can be a daunting task without the outdoor attire.

Swimsuit:  AMI Clubwear | Denim Shorts:  Express

Take your swimsuit to the next level with denim shorts or wear a lightweight kimono.

Also, when purchasing swimwear don’t forget to choose the right cut for your body-type; find a color that compliments your complexion and consider the primary purpose or activity.  For example, monokinis are not encouraged for tanning.

Visit AMI Clubwear to purchase a stylish, affordable swimsuit.

 

Scent Trunk.com | Customizable Summer Fragrance Review

If you haven’t heard of Scent Trunk, you can thank me after this post. Scent Trunk is an innovative company that allows customers to create their own individual fragrance.  It’s an intriguing process, especially for those with seasonal allergies or seeking a unique smell.

Featured Photo from Fragrantice.com

After receiving the kit, start by taking the scent (or sniff) test, select your favorite fragrance, and log the information into your account. 

Scent Trunk will ship your personalized fragrance in a few days.  I had a lot of fun creating my scent and excited to receive the package.  

My fragrance smelled wonderful!  For an authentic review, I decided to wear it for an outside family barbecue.  It’s safe to say I smelled amazing and no need to reapply.  Living in a warmer climate, your body has a tendency to change and need a fragrance that will withstand the weather.  

Try it for yourself, visit ScentTrunk.com and let us know your experience here!

Talk of Alabama Lifestyle Segment: Summer 2017 Beauty Staples

I hosted a Lifestyle Segment with Talk of Alabama sharing summer beauty staples.

This particular segment featured products specifically geared towards protecting your skin during the warmer months, healthy tanning options, and looking refreshed with lip colors (or nail polish) for the new season.

The products I presented on ABC 33/40 included Elf Runway Ready Lip Palette, Hard Candy Color Correct Primer,  Hard Candy Color Correct Cushion Tip Creme Gel, Sinful Colors Nail Polish, Benecos Natural Fresh Bronzing Duo, True Natural Perfect Tan ProductsHawaiian Tropic Weightless Face Lotion SunscreenSkinny Tan Tanner.

Here’s the breakdown:

Face

Elf Runway Ready Lip Palette

Hard Candy Color Correct Primer

Hard Candy Color Correct Cushion Tip Creme Gel

Sinful Colors Nail Polish

Benecos Natural Fresh Bronzing Duo

Body

True Natural Perfect Tan Products

Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Face Lotion Sunscreen

Skinny Tan Tanner

Click Here To Watch:  TALK OF ALABAMA

What I Wore: Color Block Sleeveless Dress

A personal fact about myself is that I have one shopping rule.  Generally, I purchase items from boutiques or stores that have a petite collection.  I am short in stature and require a certain length and fit.  On this site I like to share styles and trends that are appealing to not only myself but to my readers as well.

This month, I was invited to attend a Women of Distinction Spring Tea.  It’s an annual event and everyone should place such an occasion on her calendar for spiritual inspiration.

What I Wore:

I opted to wear this particular dress because color blocking is the easiest way to wear varying colors.  It’s literally an art exhibit displayed in the form of ready – to -wear apparel.  For a non-traditional flair I selected a pair of black strappy heels along with a quilted handbag.

The Spring Tea was amazing and my look provided a seasonal, chic statement!

 

Lipstick:  Anastacia Beverly Hills | Quilted Handbag Comparison:  Rebecca Minkoff | Dress:  Express | 3 Stone Gem Ring:  Anjolee