Style

October Trunk Club Review by Someone with Curves

I had been really intrigued by Trunk Club recently, the subscription clothing box by Nordstrom. I tried other services like this in the past, specifically Stitch Fix, and I always felt so underwhelmed by the choices they sent. I’m not what you’d consider an “average” size, being that I’m more on the “plus size” end of things, according to the fashion industry, so I always felt they just sent whatever they could find in my size, regardless of the style or whether or not it fit my style preferences. Most things I received were hideous or appeared to be my size on the tag, only to find I either couldn’t get them over my head, or if I did, it turned into a half-hour battle of trying to get the thing off. That is, if I even felt it worthy enough to try on.

But then Trunk Club came into my radar and while hesitant, it’s owned by Nordstrom and that made me a bit more confident since I know that Nordstrom carries my sizes across the board. That’s a large on top and size 12-14 on the bottom, for reference. Stitch Fix sends a lot of brands you’d see at Nordstrom Rack and the like, but they always seemed to be out of the junior section and on the cheap end of the scale. Don’t get me wrong, I love a deal and hating spending a ton on clothes, but by cheap I meant in quality. So I signed up for Trunk Club in an effort to see what they could pick for me and if they’d actually fit.

First of all, I was really impressed by the personal stylist who actually takes the time to chat with you. They set me up with Trayveon, who was super nice and asked a ton of questions and his picks (although I hated some on my body) were spot on. He also sent me a preview of my trunk, prior to shipping it out, so you can swap items out if you’d like. I ended up asking for another moto jacket to be removed because they price was way higher than I’d spend, so it seem pointless to include it. Second of all, I love that it only costs $25 to have the pieces curated for you (the $25 styling fee goes toward any purchase you make) and even better, if you’re a Nordstrom cardholder, the styling fee is completely waived! Third, the presentation of everything is perfect! It comes in a box that looks like an actual trunk and it’s wrapped in sweet, little bundles that make it feel like you’re unwrapping gifts. Lastly, I was so impressed by the quality of the clothing! The amount of pieces they include in the trunk is awesome!

Most surprising of all, was that these clothes fit me. Some were snug in spots, like I’d need to maybe size up, which I usually get discouraged about because with Stitch Fix, there were no extended sizes, but with Nordstrom and Trunk Club, there often is! I’m used to clothing not fitting, it’s true. I’m 100% hourglass, boobs and hips for days, but slimmer in the midsection. It’s really hard to clothe this body and it’s a constant battle! So this was such a lovely experience, even when I didn’t like something because I was able to at least try everything on.

Overall I was pretty impressed with everything, but I had a few complaints, which I’ll indicate below, but you can see my real time reactions via the video below from my instagram stories, where I tried everything on.

Bp. Just Block Heel Bootie • BP • $99.95 – So these boots were AMAZING! Seriously. They fit true-to-size, were comfortable and so stylish! I ended up returning them because they’re grey suede and I’m just not good with shoes that need extra care and I feel like I’d ruin them. I don’t think the price is bad at all, based on quality, style and fit though.

Bp. Studded Faux Leather Moto Jacket • BP • $99 – This moto jacket was fab and I loved it! It was a bit snug in the chest area, but miraculously I can size up! In the end, I sent it back because I want a moto jacket that is a bit longer in the waist. I love the studs though and the quality was perfect. I think $99 is a great price for this particular jacket.

Bp. Center Stripe Oblong Scarf • BP • $29 – I kept this scarf! I loved it so much and the colors were perfect. It’s super soft and feels like you’re wrapped in a blanket. I’m not going to lie, the price was nice too, being that it was only $29…

Bobeau Ruffle Sleeve Blouse • $45 (Not available online) – Not sure why this isn’t available online, but alas, it was really cute, loved the color and fit, but the mid-sleeve ruffle was doing me ZERO favors.

Articles Of Society Sarah Skinny Jeans • Articles of Society • $64 – Loved these jeans, I think it’s a great price for a quality pair of jeans. I almost didn’t try them on because jeans are so hard to fit for me, but I was shocked when they actually fit! They were very comfortable with just the right amount of stretch, but I would prefer a bit higher waist in my post-childbearing years, if you get my drift. My favorite detail was the raw ankle hem.

Bp. Ruffle Hem Bell Sleeve Top • BP • $45 – Everything about this was all wrong. I mean, it looks super cute on the model, was very soft and well-made, but the cropped-ness (is that a word? Because I just made it one) is not something that looks good on my body, AT ALL…and the sleeves were too long for my short arms…someone taller and thinner probably looks way better in it.

Halogen Floral Ruffle Blouse • Halogen • $69 – I LOVED this when I first pulled it out of the box! It was beautiful, but again, the cut was all wrong for me and my arms were drowning in fabric. I think it’s a bit pricey, but it is a very good quality blouse. It fit me really well throughout the torso and chest, but the multi-tier peplum just wasn’t cutting it for my figure. Had it been a tad longer, maybe I would have loved it more.

Leith Shawl Collar Cardigan • $79 – Y’all…this cardigan…IS EVERYTHING! Soft, beautiful, fit like a dream…BUT WHY IS IT $79?! That’s the only thing that turned me off from this. I even checked out the materials, trying to justify price based on fabric quality, but it wasn’t all that special and I just had to say no in the end. I’ll regret it forever, I’m sure!

Bobeau Ottoman Texture Balloon Sleeve Top • Bobeau • $49 – See video for my uncensored opinion on this one…

All in all, I loved this Trunk Club experience and if you’re into subscription boxes, you should definitely try it out! I’ll be getting a new trunk at the end of November, so stay tuned for that!

November 5, 2017 0 comment

Beauty Review Style

So I Finally Tried LipSense {Review}

LipSense has literally been the talk of the town (or social media, anyway) for months! I’d been eager to try it, but at the $55 price tag for a starter kit I was hesitant, for fear that I might hate it. I don’t know anyone nearby who sells it so I can try it out, so I was ecstatic when the sweet Sonya from Redgate Beauty reached out to me to try out LipSense! It was so generous of her and she’s even given me a coupon code for you guys, so stick around for that…

So the idea of LipSense, if you’ve never heard of it, is a long-lasting lip color that isn’t a lipstick. I carefully crafted this description for you…nah, I totally pulled it from the LipSense website because I wasn’t even sure how exactly to explain it, but ultimately, it’s this:

This unique product is waterproof and does not kiss off, smear off, rub off, or budge off! And, just as important it does not dry out your lips. In fact, it restores the moisture content of your lips when used properly. LipSense Liquid Lip Color can last anywhere between 4 and 18 hours.

LipSense is a non-wax liquid lip color that stays on your skin. LipSense provides a natural shield from the sun. The proprietary formulations and color pigments in LipSense help create a mechanical covering for the lips. That means the skin on your lips are protected from the sun’s rays by the color pigments, therefore your lips are more protected from harmful rays. That is just one of the reasons your lips become so smooth and soft with consistent use of LipSense.:

You can read more about it on Sonya’s site, but you get the gist of it…in my own words, it’s sort of like a stain but sort of like a liquid lipstick…at any rate, I was really excited to try it out! I tend to stick to neutral colors, though I do love a bold lip on rare occasions. I’m usually sticking to the cool neutrals category of mauves and nudes. It’s hard to choose a color by photos, because as I found out, they weren’t exact representations. I have a hard time anyway because with a complexion as pale as mine, colors are never accurate. I ended up choosing the color Bella, because it looked like a perfect shade for my tastes. It wasn’t a good match because, no surprise, it was too dark, but I’ll tell you how I made it work…

My first run with it was an absolute disaster. It ended in red, raw lips from too much scrubbing to get it off. I applied it all wrong and ended up going to watch a video about it on YouTube to see what I needed to do differently. They all made it seem easier than it actually is. My first application was patchy, uneven and just plain awful. Directions also say to apply three layers for best application, but that was way too dark for everyday use on me. I also didn’t have the Oops! Remover they sell to easily remove it, so it was a bit of a mess trying to get the stuff off! I tried oils, makeup remover wipes, baby wipes! It wasn’t coming off! Which, in theory, is good because it’s supposed to be long-wearing…in the end, I used an exfoliating bar of soap to gently buff it off, then followed up with a lip oil. For those that may ask, they’re from Perfectly Posh and my husband’s cousin sells it if you’re interested in checking it out here.

I kind of set it aside for a day or two and came back to it a couple of evenings later. And by trial and error, I got it to work perfectly! You MUST shake the tube really well. It’s sort of like paint in that there’s a little ball inside to mix the product up. I also found that I was using too much product. It literally dries within seconds, so if you have too much product, it will goop up and just dry in patches. You also need to apply quickly because of this, like DO NOT hesitate in swiping it! Practice is key, so you don’t end up looking like you got into a fist fight, like me! I find that wiping excess off the sponge applicator helps a ton! Sort of like you would with nail polish. I then only apply one coat of product to get my perfect shade. It’s harder to hide mistakes with only one coat, but it’s doable! It also stings a bit on application, which I’ve read is normal because of the alcohol content (DISCLAIMER: this is not a ‘natural’ beauty product, by any means) and also has a bit of an alcohol smell but neither lasts long. I apply one coat and let it dry, then do spot touch-ups where necessary. I chose the standard Glossy Gloss as its companion and after the color dries apply the gloss and you’re good to go! The gloss keeps some moisture on your lips, because they can feel dried out during the day.

So my final thoughts, once I got through the kinks, are that LipSense colors are awesome! The staying power is unbelievable! Literally, it stays ALL DAY! Through coffee, meals, everything! You can reapply the gloss as needed to “freshen it up,” but it’s great and does exactly what SeneGence says it does. I also really like their gloss because it’s not sticky and has no flavor or scent. I typically apply a layer in the morning and then again early afternoon. I also liked it too because my favorite lip color by MAC that is similar contains Sesame oil, which Lark is allergic to, so I can use this and still be able to kiss my daughter without a reaction.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting lip color, I’d highly recommend LipSense! If you’re into more natural and organic products, I’d say this isn’t for you. I only point that out because I often share more ‘natural’ options because of my family’s allergy and skin issues, so I feel a bit obligated to tell my readers this. It’s a fun product and I love makeup, so it was a no-brainer that I was going to try it out. I feel like the price is still a bit high, but for the amount of product you get with it (a little goes a long way), they’re a bit more manageable. And I can help with that too, because Sonya has offered my readers 15% off their LipSense purchase through her website with code BLOGGER15. If you have questions about colors, I’d shoot her an email and she will be more than helpful!

October 23, 2017 0 comment

Favorites Motherhood Style

Mom Wardrobe Essential: The Perfect Hoodie

In my mom life, I’m all about comfort…but I also still love style. I think it’s totally acceptable to count hoodies as fashionable and stylish, but maybe that’s my lazy self talking. I use to put a little more time into my outfits when I worked a job that required more office attire, but at my current job, they let us wear jeans and I often sport my typical “momiform” of hoodie and/or cardigan with skinny jeans and cute sneakers. Plus it’s just more practical when I’m chasing kids around to be comfortable. I’m perfectly okay with this casual season of life.

We were on vacation in Vancouver, BC, Canada last week, and every time we are there, I have to grab a “souvenir” at my favorite store (and Canadian brand) Roots! They have the BEST ‘athleisure’ options and I’m basically obsessed! This trip I picked up this amazing hoodie! It literally might be the best hoodie I’ve ever owned! It’s super soft and I love the raglan style. I also love that it’s not as thick as traditional hoodies, so I can layer it under a jacket once it starts to really cool off. This exact style isn’t available online, but it’s similar to their Original Kanga Hoodie.

And since I love hoodies so much and need more for my collection, I rounded up a few more that I want to scoop up! I adore all of these so much, especially the camo one! Do you love a good hoodie?! Does comfort win over style for you?! Because it does with me lately! Not to mention, weather is taking a big turn these days and cooler temps are rushing in, so I’m reaching for anything and everything cozy and soft.

Vintage Havana Lace-Up Knit Hoodie • Vintage Havana • $19.97
Women’s Rip Curl Hotline Stripe Hoodie • Rip Curl • $54
Women’s Alternative Mottled Pullover Hoodie • Alternative • $48
Women’s Zella Let’s Explore Hoodie • Zella • $59
Free People Get It Hoodie • Free People • $54.60
Relaxed Raglan-Sleeve Hoodie for Women • Old Navy • $22.99
Lou & Grey Poncho Hoodie • LOFT • $69.50
Women’s Chaser Lace-Up Lounge Hoodie • Chaser • $51.60
Women’s Alternative Camo Print Pullover Hoodie • Alternative • $48

What’s your “mom style” essential wardrobe item?

October 6, 2017 0 comment

Favorites Motherhood Style

Rewarding Moments with Carter’s and OshKosh!

A typical weekend for us will generally start slow. We wake up, we hang out on the couch in our pj’s, play for a bit, maybe watch a movie. After a busy week of work and daycare, we are all eager to relax a bit. We love our ‘comfy’ clothes, like the many Carter’s pj sets my kids tend to accumulate because I just love them so much!

Our slow start will usually transition into afternoon adventures. They are often spur-of-the-moment, spontaneous and the type of adventure where anything can happen! We like to head out together, find new things to see and do and have fun as a family. Sometimes we hike, sometimes we head to the beach and sometimes we just hang around town.

Recently we checked out a local shop that features locally made pottery items and home décor. It’s such an amazing, colorful and whimsical shop and the kids had a blast! My husband actually has a fine art degree in ceramics and pottery, so it was nice to kind of see him in his element. The kids played, explored the pottery studio upstairs, and looked for fun treasures around the shop’s exterior.

Lark was, of course, obsessed with all of the items for birds. Her name serves her well, apparently, because she loves anything for birds. Arlo was mostly just overwhelmed by all of it, but loved all of the gazing balls they had scattered about. Taking these two into the store was a bit anxiety-inducing, as 99% of the items were breakable. But we managed without incident!

With busy weeks and equally busy weekends, my kids need clothes that comfortable, durable (oh boy do we ever need durable) and most importantly, affordable while not sacrificing style. I turn to Carter’s and OshKosh quite frequently for my kids, not just for the reasons here, but also because they fit my kids so well! I have two kids that are both on the small end of the charts and these brands have always fit my kids so well. I also love how many options there are and they’re always current with the latest styles. I’m sort of that mom who likes to have my kids in matching outfits, if at all possible, and I’m sure my kids will start to protest that soon enough. But until then, I’ll keep grabbing the cute outfits from Carter’s and OshKosh that I can mix and match!

Carter’s, OshKosh and SkipHop brands have made shopping easier with their new and improved Carter’s Rewarding Moments program. It’s simple and easy to sign up and when you spend $100, you earn $10! I know my rewards will stack up quick, with as much as I shop these brands! You also get exclusive, member-only offers and services, “Endless Aisle” shipping (free shipping on items unavailable in the store if you have an associate order for you), presale access and member-only promotions (I am a sucker for presales), easy returns, special bonus point offers and even a birthday gift for your child.

Obviously I love these brands and that’s why I wanted to take a moment to tell you about their new rewards program. Head on over and sign up today! Keep your kids clothed in cute stuff without breaking the bank and even get a few things in return…that’s my kind of shopping!

This post was written in collaboration with Carter’s, OshKosh and SkipHop, but all clothing and opinions are mine and were not provided by the sponsors. I truly love all of these brands and wouldn’t have shared them otherwise…

September 7, 2017 2 comments

Favorites Motherhood Style

My Practical Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks

So it’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale time…well, it’s been going on a few weeks now, but I’m late to the game, clearly…Now I’m not a blogger who is affiliated with Nordstrom…AKA, I’m not making money here and I didn’t spend a lot of money either. But I bought two items (I know…lame, right?!) that are practical for me and my mom life and didn’t cost me a small fortune.

I thought I’d share them because I’m obsessed with both! I’ve been wanting a pair of these shoreline style Converse forever, to add to our family’s ever-growing Converse collection (we might have a problem) and they’re more awesome than I could have imagined! They’re not a bright white, the color way is called ‘putty’ and I love it! They’re also not canvas, but a pretty twill that feels like a mix between microfiber and satin. They have elastic in the back that makes them quick to slip-on and that helps when both kids are yelling at me to play outside…I’ll probably ruin them, or the kids will spill something on them, but oh well…they’re so comfortable! They’re normally $55 and I got them for $36!

Note: They’re no longer available in Putty, but they are available in a muted wine color called “Port”

The second item I picked is one that I’ve been lusting after for ages! The Zella high-waisted Live-In leggings! These things are seriously amazing…My body after two kids and two c-sections is not all that amazing…not that I’ve ever been ‘bikini-ready’ hahaha, but the high-waisted aspect of these leggings is awesome for holding it all in! They are snug-fitting, but not uncomfortably so and they actually hold their shape! They’re also super soft and I wish I would have bought both colors (the burgundy is now sold out)! They are normally $54 and I got them for $35! I wear so many leggings and these are the best I’ve ever had!

Those are my two picks that I nabbed! I’m no high-roller, but I loved both so much that I thought I’d share them with you all! They’re perfect for life on the move with my family…

August 5, 2017 0 comment

Fashion Motherhood Style

Mom Wardrobe Essential: The Perfect Tee!

I’ve always been a pretty casual person when it comes to style. Don’t get me wrong, I love to dress up! But for the most part, I’m a jeans and tee kind of girl! It’s a wardrobe staple for anyone, but especially for moms because they’re so simple, comfortable and always in style! Fashionable, yet functional! It’s basically like wearing publicly acceptable pajamas…They’re so easy to dress up too, making casual work for nights out too, which is all good in my book!

There’s a few things I look for in the perfect tee…

The cut – I tend to prefer a ‘drapier’ top, so anything cut with a unique hemline, like a high-low hem, is something I look for. I also tend to buy them a size larger than I actually wear to add to the drape of the fabric.

The fabric – I like shirts that are some form of cotton blend or other blend. Usually something with rayon, jersey, spandex or viscose are a shoe-in for me! They’re stretchy but also hold they’re shape. They are also typically lightweight (jersey can sometimes be heavier). I don’t like anything too tight and these types of fabric in a flowy tee are so comfortable!

The color – I like tees that come in a variety of colors so that when I find one I love, I can have it in multiple colors! I love patterned tees as well, but the older I get (boooooo!) the less I like super bold patterns. I usually go for stripes or small, delicate prints these days.

Fun details – I love a plain tee with unique details, like that high-low hemline I mentioned earlier. Little things like a pocket or gathered details take it from a plain old tee to a piece with a bit of flair while still keeping that comfort level of a plain old tee.

The price – I’m a stickler for price on clothing. Like, I’m cheap! I love clearance rack deals and sales! You can find so many fun tees for awesome prices though, especially if you catch stores at the right time! Stores like Target, GAP and Old Navy are awesome places to pick up some great tops!

I rounded up a few good ones that I’m loving! Most are on sale too!

{1} Mossimo Supply Co. Relaxed V-Neck Tee – Who doesn’t love a classic white v neck?! I think they’re so flattering and the v adds a bit of interest to the neckline. Plus they literally go with anything!

{2} Merona Vintage V Tee – I absolutely love the pink color of this tee! I also like that it’s a bit longer length and is super soft!

{3} Merona Softest Scoop Tee – I also love scoop necklines. I’m not one for crewnecks because they can sometimes feel restricting on my neck…but that’s just me, I’m weird like that!

Side note: Tees are 3 for $20 at Target right now! So you can literally purchase all three from Target for 20 bucks!!

{4} Cable & Gauge Enzyme Wash Tee – So I randomly found a tee shirt last year at Marshall’s by this brand and it’s literally the most amazing thing I’ve ever owned! I tracked the brand down to Nordstrom Rack and I’m obsessed with it! The wash of the fabric and the fun mesh detail at the back make for such a fun style!

{5} GAP Jersey Shirred V Neck Tee – Another one where I love the wash and the shirred detail at the shoulders. Takes this plain, little tee to another level. So cute!

{6} GAP Factory Luxe Tee – These luxe tees are LEGIT awesome! So lightweight and comfortable! They’re a bit high-low in the hem and I’m wearing them on repeat constantly! I bought several in a massive sale at our GAP factory sale!

What pieces are staples in your wardrobe? I’m partial to a good, oversized cardigan and cute tennis shoes. Also mascara, does that count as a wardrobe staple?! 😉

April 6, 2017 4 comments

Giveaway Keep Collective Review Style

Current Faves : Firmoo Eyewear Review + Giveaway (CLOSED)

Hey guys and gals! Happy February…It’s no secret I hate January, and frankly, I’m glad it’s over. Especially since we ended it with a house-wide epidemic of a vicious stomach bug, and I got the added bonus of a sinus infection and bronchitis that’s flared up my long-dormant asthma…oh, and my kids woke up with pink eye today, but that’s a whole other story that involved me crying in my bathroom before work…sigh…

At any rate, we are out of January and I always feel revitalized with the change into February. It’s like I can already feel spring on the horizon!

I’ve had some current accessory favorites keeping me going and putting some sparkle into my northern Michigan gray and dreary winter days…

Obviously my customizable jewelry from KEEP Collective is a staple. I know you’re not surprised to see it mentioned here, but hey, I love it! My rose gold options and my shiny metals are giving me life and hope for brighter days soon! Plus I love that I can mix and match with so many options every day! Shown here are my mini pendant with a couple of current favorite charms, my Timekey on my rose gold leather keeper, and my mesh keepers with two of my favorite stones of the moment, the pink quartz and the jasper.

I’m also still loving this scarf from my first StitchFix delivery (mentioned here). Adds a fun pop of color to my monochrome outfits (and outlook ha!) as of late! It’s super soft and warm and perfect for the weather right now. We’re expecting a BIG winter storm tonight…Yikes! So much for an early spring 😉

I’m also obsessed with this roller ball from Victoria’s Secret in their Heavenly scent. It was a total impulse buy at the last minute to get me a cash rewards card. You know, spend more just so you can get a coupon…makes total sense, right?! 😉 But I’ve actually been wearing nonstop! It’s fresh and sweet, but not overly so…and I love the ease and convenience of roller ball applicators.

I couldn’t write this post without mentioning my new phone case! I actually found it on eBay and y’all know I’m snow white-obsessed! Lark is pretty smitten with it too!

And lastly, my new glasses, courtesy of firmoo.com! I absolutely love Firmoo! Their eyewear is affordable and there are TONS of frames to pick from. My favorite sunglasses are also from Firmoo! I like interesting, but not crazy wild frames, and these tortoise cat-eye frames are so perfect. I also love the added detail of the white pinstripe on the edge of the frames. My kids love them too and like to rip them off my face, but luckily they’re durable, and with the price, they’re easy to replace should something happen to them.

These glasses, with my prescription, come in at less than $50. I’ve always struggled with purchasing glasses because the brand name lenses are beyond expensive and never in my budget. With a service like Firmoo, I can have multiple pairs! I also love that the anti-scratch and UV coatings are an option, as well as tinted lenses, etc for a VERY nominal fee.

And because Firmoo is so awesome, I’m giving a pair away to one of my readers! Leave a comment below telling me your favorite accessory of the moment to be entered to win! For an extra entry, comment on my instagram post about this giveaway letting me know you commented on the blog (and follow me, if you’d like! @hellokatiejo) I’ll be announcing a winner a week from today on February 9^th!

OUR WINNER IS KATE S.!!! Congrats Kate! I’ll be emailing you with more info!

February 2, 2016 15 comments