May 28, 2010

Happy Weekend to All & an Anthropologie Purchase

Hi everyone - no WTF Friday today! I just wanted to wish you all a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend!

Happy shopping, happy eating!

I will say, though, that I picked up this cardi at Anthropologie yesterday - it is adorable, comfy and so versatile! I took an XS if you're curious about fit!

Anthropologie at ShopStyle

May 27, 2010

Go Nude...Pumps Only

In honor of my birthday (and birthday suit, I guess) I wanted to forgo today's Cubicle to Cocktails and instead provide a set of everyone's lusted after shoe (or at least MY favorite shoe)...the nude patent pump!

It seems that this is an obsession of many as of late - finding the perfect patent pump, peeptoe, sandal, etc. So, I did a little lookin' and here is what I came up with!

Prices range from $70 - $490. Let's be real - if you're going to do a bit of splurging on any shoe - this would be the one. Find a shade that gets as close to your skin tone as possible, the point of perfect patent is to lengthen the leg line. My gifted Louboutins are nude patent - and not only do I treasure them, but they really do go with everything.

Enjoy the day!

May 26, 2010

Cheap Thrills: 31 Flavors & Visiting Planet Chubbs

You know, it kills me when I'm plowing through a dessert and someone (usually not someone I know well) says, "I'm just not a dessert person." Ex-squeeze me? I must have mis-heard you. We're not friends anymore.

But seriously, I love my sweets and ice cream in particular. I've noticed that my weekly editions of (personal) Cheap Thrills have focused quite a bit on food as of late - what can I say, I likes to eat. It's a good thing I also like to run, or I'd be a brick house - and not in a good way. All things in moderation, folks. As my friend Cathy and I like to say, let's not visit Planet Chubbs too often - just once in a while...

So, in honor of the cool, sweet treat, here are some of my fave flaves at Baskin Robbins:
  • Strawberry Shortcake: Not too sweet with just enough strawberry chunks and shortcake bits to make me drool.
  • Peanut Butter & Chocolate: One of my classic picks as a kid, I still dream about this flavor in my sleep.
  • Snickers: It is what it says - pure Snicker-y deliciousness.
  • Mint Chocolate Chip: My brother's favorite and a nice minty treat.
And onto today's set...I'm going to start using ShopStyle for my Cheap Thrills sets. I can fit much, much more into each edition and it's easier to use! Enjoy!

What's YOUR favorite of the 31 flavors?!

May 25, 2010

Currently Craving: Wonderful Wedges

Hi everyone!

Before I get to my feature of the day - Happy birthday, Dad! Dad reads my blog quite frequently...love you!

As some of you may know, in addition to my full-time gig, I occasionally work in a local clothing boutique a few weekend days per month. In said boutique I am often walking around the store, helping customers, ringing up, etc. i.e. - I'm not sitting on my ass all day. Naturally, I routinely put up a fight with myself similar to the following...

Coley: I want to wear heels to work, it just looks so much better overall.
Me: Sure it does, but let's be real, your feet will start hurting after two hours of walking around.
Coley: True, but they look SO much better...especially since I am sporting the inseam of a 10 year-old.
Me: Thanks for the dig. Ok...let's try to find the most comfortable heels in the closet...

So, yes. I usually throw on heels and bring flats with me, because let's be real, around 2 pm, my feet are screaming. To counteract the foot pain, if I break down and wear heels, I have been sporting wedges. I LOVE wedges. Hubs thinks that wedges are funny little shoes - all wedge-like. Durrr.

But I proclaim my love for wedges - they are exponentially more comfortable than heels and still give my midge legs a mighty lift.

Below is a set of some slammin' wedges that I have had my eye on....especially those super fun tie-up Sam Edelmans and the gold tube Dolce Vita wedges. Also, I saw the DVF brown platforms at Nordies just this weekend (see the bottom right corner) - they are STUNNING.

Does anyone else love wedges as much as I do?





And if you're still shopping...

May 24, 2010

Product Review: CoverGirl Shineblast Lipgloss, C-

Hi all - today's product review revolves around one of the two CoverGirl products I received through a BzzAgent campaign - next week I'll feature the other product!

Today's review covers (ha) CoverGirl Shineblast Lipgloss in Sparkler. This little baby retails for $8.49 and each gloss tube contains .13 oz. of shiny goodness.



Details from walgreens.com:

Light reflecting shimmer layered under a high-gloss finish gives you 4x more noticeable shine.* Plus, our breakthrough applicator, the ShineSculpt, hugs the curves of your lips for a sculpted shimmer behind the shine.

*vs. bare lips

Made in USA

Instructions:
To make your lip gloss last longer: Apply a thin layer of lip liner in your natural lip shade, all over your lip. This will help the gloss wear longer.

And onto my review...

The Good: It's shiny. Yay for shiny.

The Bad: The scent is a bit "manufactured" - it emotes that saccharine-y sweetness. The gloss itself is a bit watery and this particular shade didn't deposit any color onto my lips. Also, considering this gloss is $8.49 for .13 oz., I'll stick with my Revlon Super Lustrous lipgloss - it gives better color, more staying power and more gloss for my money.

The Verdict: C- for me. While I appreciate the shininess of the gloss, the product itself didn't impress me. I like CoverGirl, but I think they need to go back to the product development team and tweak this little gloss.

May 21, 2010

WTF Friday: Renaissance Fairs & Nightgowns

Happy Friday to all!

For today's WTF Friday we have two offenders...first up - Lily Allen.

Credit: Ian Lawrence/Splash News Online

Oh my....oh my....Lily. Girlfriend looks like she's workin' at a renaissance festival (btw - they kind of scare me) or maybe she's playing dress up for the new Robin Hood flick. In any case, I don't see a massivo turkey leg in her hand, so this frock fails. FAILS. In addition, this color is kinda heinous on her - it's drab and oh so sad.

And then there is the lovely Michelle Williams in Chanel Haute Couture...while I am loving her makeup and the new haircut, I am hating on her couture (styling).

Credit: Francis Specker/Landov

Michelle, my bell, this floppy pink frock is styled soooo poorly. It's too long and too relaxed. It vaguely reminds me of one of those terry cloth, strapless robes. I say WTF, because this dress has may-jah potential - it's Chanel for pete's sake. Michelle, darlin', you give great face - please get a better stylist. You owe it to Chanel.

So, ladies - what do we think of today's WTF Friday? Tons 'o potential, especially with Michelle Williams...remember her ah-mazing mustard Vera Wang? More of that por favor...

May 20, 2010

Cubicle to Cocktails: Getting High Waisted at Work

I am laughing already at my title. I could have done so much more damage with it, but I held back. Seriously, mom, I held back.

So, today's Cubicle to Cocktails features high waisted pants - not everyone's best friend, but if worn correctly they look smashing. Word to the wise - clearly these types of pantalones can drown the vertically-challenged ladies. However, slap on some heels, cinch the waist and even the shortest of shorties can wear these - just watch your proportion. Larger hips? Make certain that these pants hit you at your natural waist (the smallest circumference, ladies). The line should be wider, but long and lean.

I think these can really work well for the office environment, I love these with a classic white button down, pale pink belt and lovely lariat. Elegant and appropriate. For cocktail time, I'm a big fan of a one shoulder ruffled top (which, by the way, if you're super busty this probably won't look supa hot on you), tuck 'er in and use the same belt and pair of pants. It will look similar to a jumper - hawt. And can I just say I am obsessed with the Rosegold Marni Laser Cut Heels shown in the cocktail portion of the set below (they come in beige, too!). 

So, thoughts on today's Cubicle to Cocktails? Do you ever get high waisted at work?


And even more high waisted trousers if you're a lookin'!

May 19, 2010

Cheap Thrills: Drinking the Bucks, Starbucks, That Is

Greetings, lovely readers! Today's edition of (personal) cheap thrills is all about Starbucks. Why? Because I love Starbucks.

While I'm putting this out there, please don't flame me for destroying the local coffee shops of the world. I like them too. Don't drink the haterade.

All in all, Star-bizzys (as hubs and I like to call it) is geographically close to work for me, so that wins out for today's post.
  • Chai Soy Latte: I don't even drink soy milk on a regular basis, but soy milk in this little beverage is delish.
  • Milk Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers: Right by the register. nomnomnom
  • Spinach & Feta Wrap: A healthy & delicious little egg white wrap with roasted tomatoes, feta and spinach.
  • Iced Passion Tea: I like the unsweetened version.
And onto today's cheap thrills! It's mainly composed of accessories this week...but if you look to the bottom right corner of this set you will see the sweetest little jewelry tree! Oh - and it's less than $12 - hooray!




Do tell, what is your favorite cheap(ish) thrill at Star-bizzys?

May 18, 2010

Currently Craving: Birthday Goods

Hellllllo out there!

So, as many of you will soon find out, my birthday is just nine days away. And, yes, I am that kind of person who celebrates their birthday to the nth degree. Really, as my dad will tell you, it's my birthday month. I say this because his birthday is only two days before mine. Dad celebrates his birthday all month long, too.

In anticipation of my big day on May 27, I wanted to share a few things I've been craving. My mother knows some of these - she asked me for a list just yesterday and I felt compelled to point her in the right direction. I mean, let's be real, do I need any of these items? Absolutely not. But who the hell wants to put super boring things they need on their birthday list? Not me.

My favorite gifts to give and receive are those that the birthday guy/girl would never buy for themselves. Oh - and dear husband, if you're going to order a gift for me that you can only find online, I suggest you order it soon. Love you!

On to my current cravings...

1) Tolani Mosaic Tunic, Pink: Pretty, light-weight and airy. Perfect for the insanely hot summer that is North Carolina.

Tolani at ShopStyle

2) Sam Edelman Gigi Sandal, Leopard: I have these babies in yellow and I adore them. Rrrrrrarrrr to the leopard print.

Sam Edelman at ShopStyle


3) Seychelles Joan Sandal, Off White: Such a sweet little wedge for summer. Flower power, baby.

Seychelles at ShopStyle


4) JJ Winters Envelope Clutch, Iris #1: The crazy, graphic print on this bag makes me dizzy. And I like it.

JJ Winters at ShopStyle

5) Pour La Victoire Tarissa Sandals, Cognac: Le sigh. I have been watching these sandals on shopbop for some time now and their price point hasn't budged. At $290 they are pricey little buggers (especially for a trendy sandal), but they are lovely.

Pour La Victoire at ShopStyle

6) DVF Justin Wrap Dress: I've always wanted my very own, classic DVF wrap dress. This print is a bit more punchy than I would typically choose but it's still fun. No one crafts a wrap dress like Ms. DVF.

Diane von Furstenberg at ShopStyle

So, those are just a few things that I am currently craving! How about you?!

May 17, 2010

Product Review: Biore Dual Fusion Moisturizer + SPF 30, B-

Hi everyone! Hope you all had a great weekend!

Up for review today is Biore Dual Fusion Moisturizer. I wanted to give this little puppy a try as it hosts SPF 30 - a must for the summer sun! Biore gives you 1.7 ounces for $13.99.



Details from drugstore.com:

Hydrates & defends by moisturizing and delivering UVA/UVB protection. With Botanamide™ technology.

This unique technology was designed to mimic skin's own natural ceramides, which are a critical part in maintaining skin's strength and moisturization. Ceramides reinforce the essential barrier of your skin, preventing dryness, roughness and fine lines.

  • Oil-free
  • Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)
  • Dermatologist tested
  • Hypo-allergenic

91% of women felt their skin was fresh & hydrated after just one use, and 87% noticed an improvement in the appearance of their skin after just 1 week.

Created specifically for "Transitional Skin", skin that's between teenage acne and serious anti-aging, theses products detoxify & nourish to improve and protect your skin.

Biore® dual fusion™ moisturizer + SPF 30, delivers a unique blend of high UV protection and weightless hydration to simultaneously defend and strengthen transitional skin. The special double-chambered package preserves the efficacy and potency of both the SPF protection and the silky, non-greasy moisturization properties. Featuring Biore® Botanamide™ technology, a ceramide-based technology with botanicals and natural antioxidants, it improves dryness, fine lines and uneven skin tone. Transparent SPF 30 provides broad spectrum protection to minimize the effects of daily UV exposure, the #1 cause of accelerated aging.

My review:

The Good: As mentioned previously - SPF 30 is a big deal. I really feel that all face lotion/mosturizers should contain this degree of SPF. It's a very lightweight moisturizer - I would imagine it would work very well for those with combo or oily skin.

The Bad: This little lotion has two pumps - one for lotion and one for sunscreen, and they routinely get stuck. Irritating - but not a deal breaker for me. Also, the lotion is good, not great and considering you only get 1.7 ounces for almost $14 - that seems like a bit hefty of a price tag.

The Verdict: I give this product a B-. While the product itself is a great idea (ladies - you should be wearing a lotion with SPF EVERY DAY), the execution fell a bit short. And it's a wee bit pricey in my book. I don't think I'll be rebuying.

Has anyone out there tried this lotion? Please share your thoughts!

May 14, 2010

WTF Friday: Ms. Mariah and Anthro Antics

WTF Friday is in fulllllll force!

Up first today is Ms. Mariah Carey...oh lawdy...


Photo via: Nathanael Jones/Sam Sharma/Pacific Coast News

And yeeeaaah...I realize that Mariah can dress a little kooky at times, a little "stuck in the '90s"...but I'm sorry, there is NO excuse for hte atrocity above. The too-tight blueberry, cropped sweatsuit with platform heels is just NOT ok. Girlfriend - I am totes ok with sporting a casual look but this does noooothing for you and you look silly. WTF Mariah - please bring back the "Honey" days. You looked put together and fashionably chic.

And then there is the Bunting Peplum Cardigan from Anthropologie...



I have NO problem with the cut or stripey-ness - I think it's quite fetching, actually. No no, the reason that this sweet little cardi makes it into my WTF Friday is because of its price. It's $248.

WTF, Anthro. I don't care if it's Leifsdottir. It's a cute, cotton cardi - $248 is insane. INSANE. Does it wash my car for me? Because at $248, it absolutely should.

So, folks those are my WTFs of the day! Any to share?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Shoutout to my fabulous friend, Cathy - she's graduating and earning her MBA this weekend! HOORAY!

Parrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrty!


May 13, 2010

Cubicle to Cocktails & Chloe Has a Giveaway!

Happy Thursday to all!

Today's Cubicle to Cocktails is a bit crazier than something I would normally sport (re: pattern on pattern), but many a woman can work that look, so I figured I'd feature a look with those elements! The floral blazer is a nod to the 80s, but I think the punchy color works well with basic black, cropped pants for work.

As for the cocktail look, I paired that punchy blazer with a neutral-colored stripey skirt. This look may be crazy busy for some, but I think the flattering stripes and fit of the skirt could work with a brighter jacket. If you're not into pattern on pattern, any jacket would look fab paired with the cowl top and skirt (a crisp white boyfriend blazer or bright red fitted jacket come to mind).

So, what do you think - have you tried pattern on pattern?


And...FYI to all of you ShopBop fans (and really who isn't?), Ms. Chloe of The Chloe Conspiracy and See Chloe Shop is giving away a $100 ShopBop Giftcard! To learn all the deets clickity click right here.

The skirt shown in the Cocktails look is from ShopBop and I lurrrrrve it...here's hoping I win so the lovely little skirt is mine mine mine.

May 12, 2010

Cheap Thrills: Funkity Funk Edition

Happy Wednesday to all!

So, I'm sure you all go through this at some point or another, but I've been in a little bit of a funk as of late. No particular reason - all in my life is good and well - just a lot going on at once, weird weather, allergies, etc.

That being said, here are a few things that just make me happy and usually lift me out of a funk...

  • Snuggling with my puppy and/or husband...always a good thing
  • Drama-free TV...i.e. Two & a Half Men...Real Housewives actually has the adverse effect!
  • Talking with my momma...she always has some hilarious story to share
  • Hitting the gym...I'm fairly consistent with this, but it always helps to change up my routine
  • Vacation...durrrr
And a little shopping never hurt anyone...here are a few cheap thrills for your enjoyment!

What's your go-to way to get out of a funk?!
Cheap Thrills - Every Item Less Than $25
Cheap Thrills - Every Item Less Than $25 by Coley's Closet Cravings featuring Old Navy shoes

May 10, 2010

Product Review: Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner, B

Hi everyone!

Today's product review is quite a departure from my typical product reviews, but I received a Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner Kit through a Bzz Campaign (where I am an Buzz Agent).

No one really likes cleaning their shower - and I am no exception; it's probably my least favorite cleaning chore throughout the house. So, naturally, I was pretty stoked to get this little gadget and try it out for a few weeks.

Here are the deets from the manufacturer:

When it comes to cleaning, it’s easy to feel like it’s all up to you. But with the Scrubbing Bubbles® Automatic Shower Cleaner, you’ve got a cleaning partner that takes care of the tough stuff for you. Simply touch the button and walk away—the dual sprayer spins 360 degrees to spray a penetrating cleaner on all four walls and tub, eliminating soap scum and mold & mildew stains and keeping your shower cleaner, longer.

The benefits of the Scrubbing Bubbles® Automatic Shower Cleaner:
  • Works automatically
  • Provides overall and targeted coverage with the dual sprayer
  • Cleans dirty shower in days
  • Shower remains clean every days
  • Eliminates odors as it cleans

And my review...

The Good: It cleans most of my shower. I will note, though, that I have a longer shower - thus this could be the problem, as the sprayer can't reach every nook and cranny. The scent is nice and my shower definitely looks cleaner overall.

The Bad: The kit itself is fairly pricey - retailing at $21.99 at Walgreens. The kit includes one bottle of cleaner and the actual apparatus (no batteries are included). The 34 oz. bottle of refill cleaner costs $5.79 - and each bottle lasts 3-4 weeks with daily use. Not bad if the product really cleans your shower well - but it didn't reach every crevice of my longer shower.

The Verdict: This baby gets a B from me. I really love the idea of pushing one little button and never cleaning my shower - but even with this little gadget, I'll still have to clean it every once in a while. Maybe I'll move the cleaner to my standard sized shower and see if it's worth it!

If you want to give this product a try, you can find coupons for the starter kit and the refills right here.

Have a great day!

May 7, 2010

WTF Friday: No, no Scar Jo

Happy Friday to all! I apologize again for a short post...my computer was semi-hijacked (not physically) so I'm going through some not-so-fun attempts at remedying the problem. Hence the posts via iPhone...which take much longer!

On to todays's offender...one of the most gorgeous women in Hollywood today (in my opinion). Scarlet Johansson went from ahhhhmazing here, in Armani Prive at the Iron Man 2 premiere LA...




Gorgeous, no?! Impeccable. And then just days later she wears this Miu Miu disaster at the White House Correspondent's Dinner...





Ummm...Scarlet you are lovely and have a smashing figure, why on earth would you load 86 pounds of pink fabric onto your hips?! No no no, Scar Jo. This dress makes this fabulous young woman look stout...and I didn't even think that was possible (luf the hair and makeup, though).

Sooo ladies - thoughts on Scarlet's pink parade?!

May 6, 2010

Cubicle to Cocktails: The Drive By, Fly By Edition

Hey all - today's edition of Cubicle to Cocktails is for viewing only...limited commentary today!

I'm having some computer issues so please enjoy the set below with the lovely white sheath!

May 5, 2010

Bloggy Feedback Please & Some Cheap Thrills...

Hi everyone! Before I get to today's edition of Cheap Thrills, please take the poll below and/or shoot me some comments (or even an e-mail) regarding my daily features. While I do blog items and features that I enjoy, I also want to keep the content fresh and new for all of you fabulous readers! I am always open to suggestions for new posts or features! And, I can really take some good constructive criticism...that will only make my blog better than ever!

Thanks so much!!! :)





And onto today's Cheap Thrills...

I really love Sephora's weekly deals - I think they offer some incredible products on the cheap. And what kind of lady doesn't love pretty cosmetics for a gift?!

Oh - Happy Cinco de Mayo, ladies! Enjoy a super-sized margarita and some guac!

May 4, 2010

Tricky Trend: Rompity Rompers

Hi everyone!

Today's Tricky Trend is the romper. Otherwise known as the jumper or the playsuit, the romper is a tricky little trend as many women can feel childish in their onesie. ha. I've heard many friends state that they could "never wear" a romper. I disagree - I think most women could rock a romper...as long as some thought is put into the look beforehand.

Here are my romper rules that will help you from feeling like a three-year-old at daycare...
  • Pay attention to fit: You're probably saying, "Durrrr, Coley". Yes. Of course you will pay attention to the fit. BUT, because rompers are all one piece, make sure that they highlight your best assets. This means that if you have great legs, don't buy a romper with fugly long shorts. If you have great arms, make sure the cut of the sleeve is favorable. Tiny waist? Make sure the romper is elasticized or can be cinched. While this may seem fairly obvious, I've seen some ladies in particularly heinous rompers.
  • Keep in mind the fabric and the use: The cool thing about most rompers is that you can easily transition them from day to night. One main caveat to this is the fabric choice. A cotton or linen-blend romper may look great at the beach, but it's going to be tougher to transition into cocktail wear. On the other hand, a light-weight silk romper can serve double duty. I personally favor the more luxe looking rompers, but to each her own!
  • Watch your assets: Keeping in mind the fit (see above), make sure none of your assets are hanging out. The romper is a fun piece, but because it's assembled into one piece, you can't really adjust the fit very much. If your assets are even slightly on display, just say no. You need to size up or find something else.
  • Don't drink too much: You may not think about this until the situation arises, but rompers aren't great for heavy drinking situations. Every time you have to head to the ladies' room, the whole thing has to come down. This is especially obnoxious if your romper features buttons, a belt, or some other bathroom-hindering device.
So, those are just a few of my romper rules. Here's a little set of a few of my favorite rompers...

Do you rock the romper? Any tips or tricks to add?

May 3, 2010

Product Review: Stila Kitten Eyeshadow, A

Hello there! Hope you all enjoyed a great weekend!

Up for review today is one of my favorite eyeshadows of all time - Stila Kitten. Thought color, the wear and the shimmer always impress me and I have repurchased this little lovely countless times!


Sephora describes the color as a "shimmering nude pink". Here are the Stila eyeshadow details from the website...


What it is:
A pressed eyeshadow in a range of shades.

What it does:
These individually pressed formulas, from classic neutrals to the hottest fashion hues, are long lasting and easy to apply, just layer to achieve the desired look. Applied wet or dry, these shadows never crease and always look fabulous.

What else you need to know:
Pop any Stila eyeshadow or cheek color pan into a signature Stila refillable aluminum compact. It's a perfect way to tote your favorite shades. Compact sold empty. Color pans sold separately.

And onto my brief review...

The Good: The shimmer is ah-mazing! I'm a fan of Stila's shadows in general but this one takes the cake. It's a soft, shimmery neutral that pairs great with a nude look or a bright lip. And as Sephora's deets describe, for added punch you can apply the shadow with a wet brush too.

The Bad: Honestly, I have no negatives to report. Do I wish it were cheaper? Sure. But one eyeshadow pan can last me one year - even with daily use.

The Verdict: This shadow earns a solid A from me! It's a great neutral with a shimmering kick and it wears beautifully.

Have you ever tried Stila's eyeshadows? How about Stila Kitten?