Color Combo: Red and Green

Christmas is upon us and what better way to celebrate this festive holiday than to wear red or green?  How about you wear both?  Red and green are complementary colors, which means they are directly opposite each other on the color wheel.  When complementary colors are used in a color scheme, they can create a vibrant and intense look because of the high contrast between each color, especially if they are at full saturation.  Some say you should stay away from wearing complementary colors, but I beg to differ.  Complementary colors work well together if you use different shades and tints of each color instead of both hues at full saturation.  Not sure if you can pull this combo off?  Check out my outfits below showing how to wear the color combo of red and green.

Outfit #1 – Olive and Cherry Red

For this outfit, instead of using a bright saturated green, I chose olive green to counterbalance the saturation of the cherry red.  I wore a red long sleeve t-shirt with dark washed skinny jeans and layered my outfit with my olive utility jacket.  I finished the look with olive and brown lace-up hiking inspired boots and a peace sign pendant for a casual rugged vibe.

Shirt: Old Navy // Jacket: Old Navy // Jeans: American Eagle // Boots: Old Navy // Necklace: Maurices (Old)

Outfit #2 – Hunter Green and Brick Red

For this outfit, I decided to combine hunter green and brick red, which are darker shades of red and green.  I paired my hunter green chunky sweater with a white long sleeved t-shirt and brick red jeggings for a casual relaxed look.  I accessorized the outfit with cognac riding boots and a multi-colored jeweled pendant.

Shirt: Target // Sweater: Old Navy // Jeggings: Kohl's sale (Lauren Conrad) // Boots; DSW // Necklace: Maurices (old)

Outfit #3 – Red Plaid and Green

I think this last outfit is the most daring because it combines more saturated hues of red and green.  I combined a red plaid silky button-up blouse and green skinny jeans.  I added a black blazer and smoking slippers to complement the black found in the plaid shirt.  I topped off this classy look with emerald jewelry and a red lip.  This outfit would be great choice for a casual holiday party or dinner with friends.

Shirt: Express // Blazer: BCBG Max Azria // Jeans: Kohl's - sale (Elle) // Shoes: DSW // Jewelry: Old Navy

How would you wear red and green?  How are you celebrating Christmas this year?

Outerwear Trend: Shearling Coats

Happy Thanksgiving!  I hope you are enjoying a great thanksgiving meal with your family and friends before Black Friday hits.  If you are one to head out on Black Friday to go shopping, then make sure to pick up a cozy faux shearling coat.  Shearling, which comes from sheepskin, is typically used on the inside of coats to add a layer of warmth.  Paired with suede, leather, or corduroy, shearling coats are a big outwear trend this season.  I think a shearling coat is a must in your wardrobe because they can either be dressed up with a flowy boho dress or dressed down with a sweater and boots. I bought a faux shearling coat a long time ago and I have kept it around all these years because it so comfortable and warm!  I hope you find inspiration from the three outfits below which utilize my brick red corduroy and faux shearling coat.

Outfit #1 – Rugged & Warm

For this first outfit, I wanted texture and warmth to be the prominent elements throughout this look. What better way to enhance that style than to pair cozy fur boots with the shearling coat.  I kept the look casual with pairing the coat and boots with a light taupe colored turtleneck, dark-washed skinny jeans, and a gold leaf pendant necklace.

Coat: Target (old) // Turtleneck: Gap Outlet // Jeans: American Eagle // Boots; Gift // Necklace: Express

Outfit #2 – A Salute to Pilots

For this outfit, I was inspired by Amelia Earhart and bomber jackets worn by fighter pilots during WWII.  Early bomber jackets were made out of sheepskin and pilots usually wore white silk scarves to prevent neck chafing.  As a salute to that, I teamed up my shearling coat with a plaid wool scarf.  Since Amelia Earhart was a woman in an archetypal man’s profession at the time, I kept the look androgynous by wearing khaki trousers and I wore my hair in a top knot as a tribute to her short hair.  In the end, the ensemble started to look boxy and shapless, so I balanced the outfit with an oversized brown belt to define my waist.

Trousers: BCBG Max Azria // Scarf: Amana Woolen Mill // Shoes: Target // Belt: old

Outfit #3 – Say Yes to Prints

While I was creating these outfits, I did notice that I had used mostly solids.  So for this last outfit, I decided to incorporate a print with the shearling coat.  I paired the coat with a printed jersey dress.  Since the weather is cooler now, I wore gray tights and navy wool socks for added warmth.  I finished the look by complementing the shearling coat with my red suede booties.

Dress: JcPenny // Tights & Socks: Target // Shoes: Wet Seal

How would you wear a faux shearling coat?

Orange is the New Black

It is the end of October and fall has officially arrived.  The holiday of Halloween enables people to carve pumpkins, dress up in costumes, and eat lots of candy.  When October comes around, I love adorning my house with orange and black décor, but I especially love getting inspired by the colors of changing leaves.  During this time, I like to start wearing autumnal colors of reds, oranges, yellows, and browns.  Did you notice that I didn’t say the color “black”?  Black does have its positive attributes – it’s flattering on everyone, can be worn in any season, and can be paired with almost every color on the spectrum.  However, black has never been my go-to color.  I love embracing color throughout my outfits. To me, color can exemplify a personality that you visually present to others, such as the red correlating with passion, or blue resembling calmness.  During the colder months, darker hues tend to be the norm to wear, with black being most people’s primary choice of color.  This fall, I urge you to break from the normal black and welcome color into your wardrobe – how about trying the color orange?

Orange is a great color to wear during the fall season because you fit right in with the scenery.  Yes, true orange may not work on all skin tones, but that’s where you shop for the shade that may work for your skin.  If you are hesitant about the color, then maybe start small and buy an accessory instead.  Below, are three casual outfits incorporating a couple different shades and patterns of the color orange that can be great to wear for some fall activities.

Outfit #1 - Orange Plaid

For this outfit, I wore my orange plaid button-up shirt opened with a white tank top underneath along with a pair of medium-washed jeans.  Instead of wearing boots, I paired my outfit with some oxfords and finished the look with a top knot.

Shirt: Heritage// Jeans: American Eagle // Shoes: Dillards (Steve Madden) //Belt: Old

Outfit #2 - Burnt Orange

For this next outfit, I tried the color combo of burnt orange, gray, and army green.  I paired my burnt orange crew-neck light sweater with light gray skinny jeans and army green utility jacket.  I accessorized the outfit with an autumnal printed scarf and cognac boots.  I wore this outfit on my recent trip to the Amana Colonies and it worked perfect for the casual shopping and sight-seeing.

Sweater: Heritage // Jeans: JCPenny //Jacket: Old Navy //Scarf: TJMaxx // Boots: DSW (Bandolino)

Outfit #3 - Pumpkin Orange

For this last outfit, my inspiration was casual 70’s.  I brought out my dark washed high-waisted jeans from the closet and paired them with a pumpkin orange colored turtleneck.  I kept the look casual and easy by accessorizing only with a vintage statement necklace and ring.  I finished the ensemble by wearing my chocolate brown suede boots for some additional texture.  

Turtleneck: The Limited (sale) // Jeans: Victoria's Secret Catalog // Boots; Target // Jewelry: Vintage (Grandma's)

How would you incorporate the color orange into your wardrobe?

Summer to Fall Transition: Printed Maxi Skirt

Fall officially begins in a few days and it’s that time to start breaking out your cozy sweaters and boots.  I’ve always enjoyed autumn because it’s the season of tailgating, pumpkin carving, and warm apple cider.  The crisp fall air is creeping upon us, if it hasn’t already, and I for one don’t want to see my summer clothes collecting dust in the back of the closet just yet.  For this post, I created a transitional summer to fall outfit utilizing my primary colored printed M-style maxi skirt as inspiration.

Summer - Maxi Skirt: TJMaxx// Crochet Tank: Younkers// Vest: BCBGeneration// Shoes: Payless // Bracelets: Craft Fair
Fall - Sweater: BCBG Max Azria// Shoes: Kohl's// Hat; Kohl's// Necklace: Old

For the summer outfit, I paired my printed maxi skirt with a white crochet tank, a denim vest, and a pair of gladiator sandals for a casual bohemian look. 

Transitioning this summer outfit into fall is simple – just swap the crochet tank for a warm neutral sweater, like this cognac colored dolman sweater, and the sandals for a pair of suede ankle booties.  I finished the autumn ensemble with a wide brim boho hat and a neutral floral necklace to continue the bohemian elements found in the summer outfit.

How do you transition your summer attire into outfits for fall?

Happy Hour Chic: Printed Slouchy Pants

Happy Friday!! For most people, it is the end of the work week.  If your Friday evening plan is to head out to a local bar or restaurant for some post-work cocktails, then I have an outfit for you.  Whether you’re grabbing drinks with some co-workers or attending a casual networking event, you definitely want an outfit that can transition you straight from work to happy hour without having to go home and change.  

When dressing for this type of occasion, I like to create an outfit that is breathable and comfortable when socializing while still being polished enough for the workplace.  For this outfit, I grabbed my black and white printed slouchy pants as the base.  I love these pants because the drawstring around the waist provides the casual element while the black tuxedo/racing stripe adds the sophistication it needs for the work environment.  Plus, printed slouchy pants have been a continuing trend this summer.  I kept the outfit work appropriate by pairing the pants with a summery neon yellow button-up blouse for that added pop of color.  I completed the ensemble with minimalist touches of black jewelry and a pair of black strappy heels.  

Who’s ready to look stylish during AND after work with no wardrobe changes? What outfit would you wear that can be transitioned from work to drinks?  Have a great weekend!

Pants: TJMaxx (Vince Camuto)// Shirt: Express // Necklace: Gift // Ring: Old // Shoes: JCPenny (sale)

Happy Fourth of July!!

It’s that time of year where we celebrate our country’s independence with parades, BBQ’s, and fireworks.  However you celebrate this holiday, there is always room to display your patriotism by breaking out your red, white, and blue, or stars and stripes attire.  Since Fourth of July is usually a time of hanging out with friends and family in casual settings, below are some outfit ideas to wear ranging from tank tops and shorts to sundresses.

Outfit #1 – Nautical Stripes

Nautical inspired clothing can always be a great way to show your patriotism.  Instead of wearing typical denim shorts, I paired navy shorts with a red and white striped tank that adds more polish to the outfit than denim.  I finished my look with white sunglasses, a white belt, and a stars and stripes bucket bag to bring in some classic Americana flair.

Tank: Old Navy// Shorts: Old Navy// Belt: Mint L.A.// Sandals: Target// Sunglasses/Bag: Vintage

Outfit #2 – American Flag Scarf

This American flag scarf is the star of the outfit.   I’m usually not really a big fan of apparel that contains the American flag, such as American flag shorts or denim containing stars due to the fact that they can look too trendy and I like being able to wear clothes more than just a certain part of the year.  However, if you want to break away from solid red, white, and blue, maybe try an American flag scarf.  I really liked this scarf because the colors are a more muted red and blue and not as bold.  For this outfit, I paired the scarf with a muted blue muscle tee and light denim shorts along with a pair of white keds to emulate a laid-back casual vibe.

Scarf: Target// Muscle Tee: Target (sale)// Shorts: Old Navy // Shoes: Target

Outfit # 3 – Polka dots and Stripes

I like pairing polka dots and stripes together especially if they are already combined together in one shirt.  Since this top already displays some emphasis due to the print, I kept the rest of the outfit subtle and just paired the silk top with some white denim cropped jeans.  I finished the look with red and white jewelry and white wedges for a casual chic ensemble.

Shirt: Mint L.A.//Jeans: Kohl's (Lauren Conrad)// Shoes: Kohl's// Jewelry: Old

Outfit #4 – Where’s Waldo Sundress

Since it is summertime, what better way than to wear a sundress for the holiday.  I paired this striped strapless dress with a denim vest to break up the Waldo stripes while continuing the casual summer vibe along with some red and white bracelets. 

Dress:  BCBGeneration// Vest: BCBGeneration

What are your plans for Fourth of July?  What are you planning on wearing?

Describe Your Perfect Date - April 25th

Anyone who has seen Miss Congeniality knows the answers to this question.  If you haven’t, click here for the clip.  Miss Rhode Island, who ends up winning the whole Miss United States pageant in this awesome chick flick comedy (spoiler alert!), says the following “I’d have to say April 25^th.  It’s not too hot, not too cold; all you need is a light jacket.” As a tribute to this moronic but memorable answer in the movie, I decided to treat you all to a post highlighting light jackets paired with rainboots for those rainy spring (not too hot, not too cold)days.

Outfit #1 - Peace and Love

Earth Day was just a few days ago so as an homage to this late April national holiday, I decided to wear my dog-print rainboots with a peace sign graphic tee, medium-washed jeans, and an olive green utilitarian jacket.  I added my worn-in, all-time favorite cross-over messenger bag to finish my laid-back vibe.

Rainboots: Banana Republic// T-shirt: Kohs's (old)//Jeans: American Eagle//Jacket: Old Navy//Bag: Target

Outfit #2 – Mixed Prints

I’ve concluded over the years that stripes and prints work well together.  For this look, I paired my dog-print rainboots with a black and white striped skirt, white crewneck tee, and my cognac faux leather jacket to complement the beige color that is found in the print on the rainboots.  I also wore my coral necklace for another dose of color to accompany the rainboots.  If it is slightly raining, but this sun is shining, this outfit would work great with the weather, however I wouldn’t recommend this outfit if there is a thunderstorm.

Rainboots: Banana Republic//Skirt: Francesca's//T-shirt: Target//Jacket: Marshall's//Necklace: BCBG Max Azria

Outfit #3 – Leather and Brights

If you have to plans for a night out, but its pouring rain, give this outfit a try.  I decided to wear my bright green Doc Marten style boots that are water resistant with faux leather leggings and a bright multicolored printed tunic.  I maintained this edgy vibe by wearing a black faux leather jacket and wearing my hair in a ponytail so my fuchsia colored hoops can be shown. This outfit is perfect for those who want to take risks with their wardrobe and like experimenting with bright colors and textures.

Boots: Walmart (old //Leggings: Express//Tunic: JCPenny//Jacket: Kohl's, Lauren Conrad Collection//Jewelry: old  

How would you pair rainboots with jackets?  

Spring Trend: Sporty Chic

March Madness has finally began and in lieu of all the winter athletics coming to a close and spring flourishing, no better way than to highlight the Sporty Chic trend for spring.  To emulate this athletic-inspired trend, consider varsity jackets, track shorts, jerseys, baseball caps, raglan baseball tees, racing stripes, razor-back or front tops, and perforated or mesh detailing.

Participating in athletics growing up, I’ve had my fair share of wearing numerous sports jerseys and tennis shoes so for me this trend hits right at home.  I’ve always been a big fan of raglan baseball shirts (even though I never played softball/baseball) and  I enjoy wearing them all year round.  They just bring an ease to any wardrobe because they can be versatile.  Below, I styled three different outfits utilizing my white and gray raglan baseball shirt as a nod to this spring’s Sporty Chic trend.

Outfit #1 – Feminine Details

I enjoy the juxtaposition of pairing feminine and masculine details to an outfit.  I chose to pair the baseball shirt with relaxed, medium washed jeans for a laid-back vibe.  To infuse some femininity, I decided to pair the outfit with my hot pink heels and a statement necklace to add a punch of color.  I also scrunched hairspray in my hair to rough up the edges for added texture.

Raglan Baseball Shirt: Target // Necklace: Francesca's // Heels: Wet Seal
 

Outfit #2 – Relaxed Tomboy

Growing up, I went through a major tomboy phase.  I wore hand-me-downs from my older brother and I despised wearing dresses.  I soon grew out of that stage, but I still love the simplicity of menswear inspired apparel and accessories.  For this outfit, I paired the baseball shirt with boyfriend style khaki pants along with a jean vest and classic low-top converse sneakers.  For an effortless hairdo, I put my hair in a side ponytail. 

Khakis: Old Navy // Vest: BCBGeneration // Converse sneakers: Journey's (old) // Bracelets: Craft Fair

Outfit #3 – Monochromatic

I like the idea of wearing a monochromatic outfit because I enjoy exploring the combination of different shades and tints of a hue.  For this outfit, instead of wearing pants, I paired the top with my light gray leather mini skirt along with a metallic gray belt and silver perforated flats to add some shine to the ensemble.  I topped the look off with stacked silver, white, and transparent bangles.

Skirt: BCBG Max Azria // Flats: Target // Belt: BCBG Max Azria // Bracelets: JCPenny // Ring: Kohl's (old)

How would you wear the Sporty Chic trend?  Who do you have winning the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament?

Movie Inspiration: 2014 Oscar Nominated Films

As an ode to the upcoming Academy Awards, airing this weekend on March 2^nd, I’ve created a couple outfits inspired by Oscar-nominated movies that I have also seen.

American Hustle

A story set in the glitzy disco-era of the 1970’s, American Hustle follows two con-artists, played brilliantly by Christian Bale and Amy Adams, who are forced to work for an ego-centric, fame-driven FBI agent (Bradley Cooper) to bring down the New Jersey powerbrokers and mafia.  Jeremy Renner plays the New Jersey political operator who is caught between the mafia and the Feds and Jennifer Lawrence portrays Bale’s witty, unpredictable wife who can bring down the whole operation.

My outfit below pays homage to the groovy-centric fashions of the disco era.  When I reflect on the fashions of the disco era I think of plunging necklines, wrap dresses, jumpsuits, sequins, and fur.  To epitomize this glamorous era, I decided to pair my deep azure colored jumpsuit with gold earnings and necklace along with my metallic gold heels. To finish the look, I wore my faux fur belted coat to add more flare.  Since we aren’t headed to the disco nowadays, this outfit would be a great option if you’re going to an artsy event, such as a gallery opening or a theater performance.

Jumpsuit: BCBG Max Azria// Coat: Gift// Heels: Chinese Laundry// Gold Jewelry: Express

The Wolf of Wall Street

Based on the memoir of the same name, The Wolf of Wall Street tells the true story of Jordan Belfort, a New York stockbroker who lives a fast-paced wealthy lifestyle until his firm is under investigation for engaging in securities fraud and corruption on Wall Street in the 1990’s.  Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jordan Belfort along with Jonah Hill as his right-hand man, Donnie Azoff, and newcomer Margot Robbie who portrays Belfort’s trophy wife.

When it comes to Wall Street in the 1990’s, yuppie power suits come to my mind.  For my inspiration, I decided to create a power suit of my own.  Since Jordan Belfort lived a prosperous lifestyle with lavish parties, I decided to bring his exuberance to my ensemble.  Instead of a typical colored suit, such as black or gray, I wore my red blazer with navy trousers and a light blue oxford button-up shirt.  I added the perfect vintage tie containing a colorful paisley print and my Ralph Lauren structured purse to add some prestige.  I kept my hair modern by styling it in a topknot so my hair wouldn’t block the tie and blazer from being the focal point of the look.  This outfit does have it eccentricities so it may not work well in a more conservative work environment, but if you work in a business casual or creative setting and are brave enough to wear it, this type of power suit would be a great option for a work ensemble.   

Blazer: Express// Pants: The Gap// Shirt: Express// Tie: Vintage// Purse: Ralph Lauren (gift)// Booties: Wet Seal

Are you going to be watching the Oscars? What nominated films have you seen?

  

Pantone 2014 Color of the Year: RADIANT ORCHID

Last fall, Pantone announced their 2014 Color of the Year – Radiant Orchid.  According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®, “An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.”

When I heard Radiant Orchid was Pantone’s 2014 Color of the year, I was excited because I had recently just bought a crewneck sweater along with a floral skirt that were similar in color to Radiant Orchid.  These items I picked up were both from Target and the skirt was on sale for less than $10.  As I’ve said in an earlier post, I only buy clothes and accessories that can be worn in at least three different ways and that are within my budget.  Usually after shopping, I go home and try on my newly purchased items to see what outfits I can create with them.  Below is my take on wearing radiant orchid and transitioning the color from winter to spring.

Winter - Sweater: Target// Skirt: Target// Tights/Boots: Target// Bracelet: BCBG Max Azria//
Spring - V-neck tee: Target// Jacket: TJMaxx// Oxford shoes: Dillards// Bracelet: shop in Galena

Winter – Gray Accents

This floral skirt has accents of navy, white, orange, and light pink.   I decided to winterize the skirt by pairing it with my crewneck sweater, gray heeled boots and tights.  This skirt would also look great with navy accents instead of gray for winter.  This outfit would be a great option for a casual dinner date or brunch.

Spring – Casual Cool

To transition this outfit into spring, I swapped the sweater for a white cotton v-neck tee, the gray boots for oxford shoes and added a cognac leather jacket.  This outfit would work well for weekend errands on a nice warm spring day.

How would you wear Radiant Orchid?     

Happy Valentine's Day!

Since I have been in a relationship, my boyfriend and I have gone to dinner on Valentine’s Day.  We like to eat at local restaurants and every year we have ate a restaurant we have never been to.  This year we are going to Splash Seafood Bar & Grill.  Splash is a five-star restaurant and has won numerous awards including Cityview’s 2013 Best Seafood Restaurant in Des Moines.

When I get dressed for Valentine’s Day, I have different inspirations flowing in my mind.  I could either be pretty in pink, romantic in red, or be a vixen in black.  This year I decided to be a vixen.  My interpretation of a vixen is a woman who is clever and sexy without trying too hard.  For my portrayal as a vixen I have decided to wear my black faux leather A-line dress.  I recently bought this dress because the A-line silhouette keeps the dress young and flirty and I like the juxtaposition of a feminine silhouette paired with a tough texture like leather.  Plus, I’ve wanted to buy a (faux) leather dress to add to my LBD collection and it was on sale!  I’ve paired this dress with black patterned tights to add a feminine texture and my mom's vintage western belt for originality.  I’ve finished the look with a red lip, my red suede booties and cropped cardigan for a splash of color.  I haven't decided how I'm going to style my hair yet, but I'm most likely going to add some volume with some soft tousled curls.  What are your plans for Valentine's Day and what are you going to wear?

Dress: TJMaxx// Belt: Vintage  // Cardigan/Tights : Old // Booties: Wet Seal

       

Valentine's Day Special

Love is in the air!  Valentine’s Day is tomorrow and I’m getting excited to celebrate it with my boyfriend.  This holiday is special to me because it’s a time to spend some time with your loved ones and because it’s 14 days until my birthday.   When I’m celebrating Valentine’s Day, I like to incorporate either red, pink, or purple into my wardrobe.  Below I’ve created a few outfit ideas for different Valentine’s Day occasions.

Outfit # 1 - Casual Night

Cream cable-knit sweater (Old Navy); Brick red jeggings (Kohl's - Lauren Conrad); Floral scarf (H&M); Boots (DSW)

Having a movie night?   My typical go-to outfit for watching a movie is comfortable pants and a cozy sweater or jacket because I usually get cold in theaters, and I like to be relaxed and not have to fidget with a dress.  For this outfit, I paired my red jeggings with my cream colored cable-knit sweater and topped it off with my pink and red floral print scarf.

Outfit #2 - Semi-Dressy Option

  

Floral Dress (Dillards); Tights & Belt (Target); Boots (Thrift Store)

This outfit would work well if you are going to dinner at a more casual restaurant, but would still like to dress up a little.  I chose this red and black floral dress because it is can be dressed up or down.  It can be paired with some pumps or can be worn with suede boots for a dressed down look.  I also put on a sparkly belt just to add a little bit more shine to the outfit. 

Outfit # 3 - Night out with Friends

Red tie blouse (Francesa's); Beige suede skirt (BCBG Max Azria); Jewelry (Express); Booties (Wet Seal)

Are you attending a singles party or bar-hopping with friends?  Here is an outfit that is fun and sexy without showing too much skin.   I’ve always been a fan of wearing a miniskirt and a top going out because they can be more versatile than a dress.  To keep the outfit fun, flirty, and warm altogether, I paired my red tie blouse with my beige suede pleated skirt to add some texture along with some opaque black tights and red suede booties.  I added gold leaf earrings and gold bracelets for some embellishment to the ensemble.

 Stay tuned tomorrow for the reveal of my actual Valentine’s Day outfit.

    

Movie Review: Dallas Buyer's Club

I saw Dallas Buyer’s Club the other day and the movie was inspiring.  Matthew McConaughey stars as Ron Woodruff, a rodeo cowboy who is notified that he is HIV positive and only has 30 days to live.  Responding shockingly to the diagnosis, Ron takes matters into his own hands after lack of FDA approved medication in the U.S.  Ron travels to Mexico where he learns of alternative treatments and starts smuggling the medications into the U.S.  With the help of his unlikely business partner, Rayon (Jared Leto), a fellow AIDs patient and transgender woman, they establish the “Dallas Buyer’s Club”, where H.I.V. positive patients can pay a membership fee and then receive free medication and treatment.

This movie was inspiring to me because it dealt with fighting for acceptance, especially since this movie was set in the early stages of the AIDS epidemic where patients were stereotypically homosexual men.  Ron was ostracized by his longtime friends and community to the point where he wasn’t allowed to work as an electrician and he was evicted from his neighborhood.  He felt isolated and the only support he received was from fellow AIDs patients.

I give Dallas Buyer’s Club my seal of approval due to a great storyline along with powerful and believable performances, especially by Matthew McConaughey, and Jared Leto.  If you enjoy stories of survival and finding friends in unlikely places, I would recommend this movie.

The message I received from this movie is that you only have one life to live, so make sure you live the want because you may not have it for long.

What movies have you seen lately?

Winter Staple: Chunky Sweater

Sweater (Old Navy); Gray Shirt (BCBG Generation); Olive green pants (Old Navy);
 Ankle Booties (Kohls); Necklace (gift)

Yesterday, snow came!  I enjoy snowy weather when it's light and fluffy and when there is not any wind.  I don't like it when there are just sheets of ice.  It used to always be a hassle for me driving in the snow, but gratefully now I have a vehicle that drives well in snowy conditions.  When the weather gets chilly, I love wrapping up in warm chunky sweaters.  I bought this sweater this past winter and it has become one of my most versatile winter pieces.  Since the sweater has a neutral pattern, I can wear it with multiple color shirts underneath, such as red, teal, and of course other neutrals as shown.  Another great combo of mine is pairing the sweater with colored jeans or jeggings.

Do you own a chunky sweater?  What do you pair it with?  

2014: Crazed Chameleon Reloaded

Hello again!!  I’m back in business.  It’s been awhile since I’ve written a post for Crazed Chameleon.  Many things happened in the year 2013 that took priority over writing my blog – I was involved in a musical called Eating Raoul at Tallgrass Theatre Company, I moved from my hometown of West Des Moines to Johnston, I bought a new car, I traveled to New Orleans for a wonderful and relaxing vacation, and I gained more marketing responsibilities at my job.  I also just recently went a cruise to the Eastern Caribbean with my awesome family this past January.  Now it’s already February 2014 and I’m reloading Crazed Chameleon once again.  Along with the reloading process, I’m revamping it as well.

Originally, my message with this blog was to inspire readers with different styling techniques and creative outfit options when dressing.  I wanted to encourage readers to challenge themselves to think outside their box and to acknowledge the versatility every clothing item has and how it can be used in various ways. Now I want to depict the same message, but expand it to life in general.  Not only will I write about fashion (which is my primary focus), but I will discuss my other passions and interests, which include performing arts, television and film, health and fitness, hair and beauty, interior design, professional development, entertaining, and much more.  Think of it as a lifestyle blog with a motivational kick.  I have many interests and I want to share them all with you.  I love embracing life and inspiring people to challenge themselves to try something new.  Come take this journey with me while we explore and experiment with new creative opportunities while discovering your inner chameleon!