Hurricane Sandy Hits Home

I live in Massachusetts. If you were to look at the map of states effected by Hurricane Sandy, you would see my state highlighted in red. In all honesty, the man and I lost power for a total of 10 minutes with some random flickering here and there. All day Monday (we both worked from home), we were most concerned with losing power, which would have been our worst case scenario living where we live. In comparison to what New Jersey and New York were dealing with, we were VERY fortunate. Don't get me wrong, we have been on the short end of the stick for ice storms, freak October blizzards and other hurricanes but this time seems different.

It could be that this was deemed a super storm, unlike any that had been seen in years so the "hype" was there. It could be that I have friends and family that live in NJ and NY that I was worried about because when was the last time something like this hit Manhattan?  It could be that my beloved Seaside Heights (before Jersey Shore made it popular, people) had all but washed into the ocean. While the hurricane knocked trees down and left some without power in Massachusetts, the storm really did "hit home" in more ways than one. Everyone I know, was watching this storm.

Since it is important for us to help, especially within our own country, I thought I would share with you some great tips and places that you can donate to disaster relief. I have heard from many sources that monetary donations are what is mostly needed, because physical goods can require extra man power to sort. You can donate directly to the American Red Cross disaster relief, which is a tried and true, and they will disperse the funds where they are needed most. And remember that you can SO EASILY  text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Also, check out this article on. Hurricane Sandy: 10 Tips for Donating Smart.You can make a contribution, even a small one, and make a difference!

What are you doing to help?

Outfit Post: Bridal Shower Beauty

Recently, those that I love, of the female persuasion, threw me an absolutely wonderful bridal shower. It was one of those days that you just feel so loved and are full of smiles. Of course, for such a day, a girl wants to look her best so I was all about planning my outfit in advance for sure. I wonder if you remember how I asked my readers to vote on what I would wear for this lovely occasion... well here is the reminder. It was close but the winner was the Warehouse Paisley Dress from ASOS. It fit like a glove when I received it so I knew that it must have been meant to be! To boot, I had my makeup trial that morning (thank you, Steph, for the recommendation) so I was feeling like a foxy lady... and no, I am not elderly. Dare I say it, but the man took some photos reminiscent of "Glamour Shots" haha.

Atlas Cloud Premiere Fashion

I want to see Cloud Atlas. While I only have a vague idea of what the movie is about, I have to reckon that it might be mind bending, which is always enjoyable to me and the man... but before we head out to see it this coming weekend, we can talk about the premiere fashion, right? Right! "Oh, there aren't any fashionistas in the film", you say. Well, there are some unknown actresses that brought it and I thought you should know about it.

Autumn Evening Night Out #WalkOn

When you are heading out for a night on the town or even just to a fancy Autumn party, a girl has got to get it done with a fantastic pair of shoes. Now if you know me, and you might by now, you obvi know that I am somewhat obsessed with shoes... well, shoes and cheese... but this post is not about cheese. This post is about my favorite evening shoes for Fall and how I work an outfit around them. They happen to be a fierce pair of platform booties that are totally functional while impressing people with how I can walk in "those things". Check it.

My Century 21 is for Clothes Real Estate

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of CENTURY 21 for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I know that when I used to hear Century 21, my mind immediately went to real estate and signs in the front yards of homes that were for sale... but now, when I hear Century 21, my mind goes directly to the truly fabulous NYC based department store with tons of fabulous finds. For over 50 years, Century 21 has been the spot New Yorkers and world-travelers alike come to find high fashion at incredibly low prices. Brands like: Marc Jacobs, Giorgio Armani, See by Chloe, Valentino, Ferre, Emporio Armani, Armani Jeans, Giorgio Armani kids, Armand Basi, Faconable jeans, Oscar de la Renta, Malo, Guess, Lucky, DKNY, Calvin Klein and Columbia are all up to 65% off retail 100% of the time. Are you picking up what I am putting down? Tons of celebs love shopping at Century 21 and so do I!

If you are lucky enough to be in or around NYC, you can visit the Lincoln Square (1972 Broadway) and Downtown (22 Cortlandt Street) locations but for me, I have to plan a trip to the city to scope out the space myself but Century 21 and Empire Hotels have got that handled for you. Visit the Century 21 Facebook page and enter the Empire Hotel sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 C21 wardrobe makeover and a two-night stay at the iconic Empire Hotel in NYC! Pretty awesome, right? There are so many things on their site that I totally want right now and at the prices that they have? I could some damage winning that wardrobe makeover! In the meantime, I signed up for the Century 21 VIP program (totes free0 so that I can rack up the sweet rewards points that I know will enevitably add right up!

SPENCE Houndshooth Pencil Skirt, $17.97

KANVAS Polka Dot Blouse, $29.97

ENZO ANGIOLINI Sling Glitter Peep Toes, $46.65

As you can see by some of my fave things right now, Century 21 has so many great options for work, play and a fancy schmancy night out. I actually have to have these glitter pumps like.right.now. I love shopping and I love finding a new place to score some awesome deals. Century 21 seems to be right up there with a great selection and great prices. What's not to love?

Have any of you been to Century 21? What did you think? What has been your favorite find?

Emma Roberts Knows Her Accessories

Oh to be Emma Roberts and look so glam wearing just a black t-shirt and oh, to be 21 again... sigh. Just because Emma is nearly 10 years younger than me, doesn't mean I can't crush on this girl's serious style. If you were to ask me what my favorite Emma Roberts movie is? Ummm, the only one that comes to mind is Aquamarine, wait, was she even in that? Point is, I don't even really know what sort of actress she is (showing my age) or will become but I do know that I admire her effortless cool and just all around cuteness. Plus, did I mention the accessories? 

Pattern Drafting... is about Drafting Patterns

I haven't blogged in a week or so. "Why?" you ask. Well, because all I have been literally doing is homework for Pattern Drafting. There are little pattern pieces strewn across, around and on top of my apartment because this first "mini" project was a beast. We had 12 design revisions to a simple skirt but if you have ever taken Pattern Drafting or Pattern related anything, you know that there are literally moving pieces to every design change and these changes can take FOREVER (think Sandlot) because you have to document every step of the change. And guess what? I have to measure everything, in like 16th of inches. It's tedious. I know what you are thinking. You are thinking, "Hey Amanda, why do you wait until the last minute to do a project?" You guys, I didn't! I didn't procrastinate, I didn't wait until the last minute... in my spare time, I worked on design changes for 2 weeks! On Sunday, the day before this project was due, I woke up, made coffee and then continued to work another 9 hours until it was finished around bed time. Needless to say that I have been far too burnt out on learning to express to you all my need for a new pair of wedges or a smoking hot leather jacket, although, now that you mention it, I kind of do want a new smoking hot leather jacket.

I am really enjoying the process and of course learning, but dude, homework, and a lot of it, is starting to wear on my last nerve. On a lighter note, my Pattern Drafting instructor also happens to be my advisor and guess what is up next for Mama? Well, Fashion and Art ( a theory course) and COUTURE! Couture techniques people! This is where I think I will shine! It's these pesky foundation courses that I have to get out of the way ;-)

Top 5 Reasons why KITTENS! are Amazing

So because I have about 3-4 posts worth of pictures on my camera (bridal shower outfit, bachelorette and a DIY etc and so on), which apparently has run away from home (actually it's in my friend's car), I have decided that it was necessary to broach the very important topic of KITTENS. Kittens are an important asset to the human race (mainly me) and I will give you all the reasons why. Be prepared to be riveted.

Source

Obsession Alert: Nicholas K Outerwear Fall 2012

Extra, extra, read all about it! Amanda is obsessed with an item of clothing or twenty! The Nicholas K Fall 2012 collection hit the interwebs and now all Mama can think about is how she can finagle the purchase of a coat she doesn't need, 3 months before her wedding. OK, I will stop referring to myself in the 3rd person and just get to the fashion goodness. The Nicholas K Fall 2012 outerwear is badass and now we can buy it for our very own... maybe.

Source

Fall Means No Nonsense

I don't know about you gals but one of my favorite thing about Fall is the opportunity to wear tights and leggings. Not only are they super versatile but let's talk about comfort without sacrificing style, shall we? I am a huge fan of keeping my summer skirts and dresses in Fall and Winter rotation by simply pulling in the colder weather accessories. Tights and leggings? Check. This is probably why my closet never seems to be organized! Anyhoo, No nonsense tights and leggings happens to be all about sharing their  easy, affordable and super accesible line with all y'all. And guess what? I can grab these on the go because they are pretty much available at every drug store and food retailer nationally, sooooo if I need 'em, I can find them. 

Are you worried about No nonsense being like your grannie's tights? Never fear, Jill Martin, who if you didn't know, is a Fashionista, is now the new Brand Ambassador and Style Expert for Launch of New Tights & Leggings. Keeping up with the styles and trends? Well, No nonsense has it covered.

“I’ve always been a fan of No nonsense as they are a brand that is available to everyone, is easy to wear and even easier to find. I am really loving the new look of the brand and all the new products,” said Jill Martin. “It’s always exciting when an established company remakes itself and I’m happy to be a part of it. The new tights and leggings are on-trend and very high quality without breaking the bank. They’re just my type of product!”

I received a pair of No nonsense black ribbed tights as well as some of the No nonsense courdoroy leggings to work into my Fall wardrobe. I did this with no problem. A girl has to have a pair of black tights but now that tights are all, you want to make sure that you offer different variations on even the simplest of colors. With different patterns, even black tights can snazz up an outfit. I wore mine to work as soon as I got them. Paired with a black pencil skirt and patent leather flats, these are a fantastic addition to my Fall work wardrobe. While Black is always in style, No nonsense has a great collection of colored tights as well. As easily as I wore my black tights, I could just as easily slip into a pair of green, pink or purple tights... literally in the same outfit. Adding a pop of color has never been so easy.

The No nonsense corduroy leggings on the other hand, are something that I will be wearing outside of work for a comfortable yet stylish outfit option. What's better than looking like you are put together but feeling like you are in your stretch pants... well, because you are! I put together my go to Fall outfit, complete with rocking boots and an oversized sweater. Can anyone say apple picking and football games? Love.

What do you think? Will you be No nonsense for Fall?

If you want to keep up with No nonsense make sure you "like" No nonsense on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.  

 This post brought to you by No nonsense. All opinions are 100% mine.

Who Needs Therapy When You Can Buy Shoes?

I have been very stressed lately, of course all self inflicted stress, but stressed nonetheless. You know when you work yourself up and there really isn't anything you can do besides cry and/or buy a pair of shoes? Well, that was me this past Friday. I am tired, people and while I won't go into every detail, let's just say if I were to let myself slow down, I might not start back up again!

Mrkt Lauren Pump, DSW.com, $69.95

I am sure you know that my Bridal shower is coming up so I, of course, felt justified in picking out a new pair of shoes to match the dress you guys chose but also a pair of shoes that I could wear this Fall... I mean, might as well get a versatile pair of pumps right? I had some DSW points burning a hole in my pocket AND it was double points this past weekend so all signs led to: NEW SHOES. I picked out these lovelies, what do you think? I know they made me feel better!