Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Blue Blossom

Voodoo Vixen Clara Dress Bettie Page Blue Cutout Marlee d'Orsay Retro Peep Toe Pumps

Anyone else feel totally off from this long weekend?  Unlike most of my friends, I worked the entire weekend, with the exception of yesterday.  Because we only had one day to do something as a family, we took a mini road trip to the Long Beach Aquarium.  Bianca had never been to an aquarium so I was living for all her reactions to the animals.  It was priceless!  As fun as it was, I feel like I need to take a proper day off in my pajamas while glued to the couch.  I'm thinking that day is today...

Voodoo Vixen Clara Dress Bettie Page Blue Cutout Marlee d'Orsay Retro Peep Toe Pumps

Voodoo Vixen Clara Dress Bettie Page Blue Cutout Marlee d'Orsay Retro Peep Toe Pumps

Voodoo Vixen Clara Dress Bettie Page Blue Cutout Marlee d'Orsay Retro Peep Toe Pumps

Voodoo Vixen Clara Dress Bettie Page Blue Cutout Marlee d'Orsay Retro Peep Toe Pumps

Voodoo Vixen Clara Dress Bettie Page Blue Cutout Marlee d'Orsay Retro Peep Toe Pumps

Dress- c/o Voodoo Vixen (on sale and free shipping until tonight!) P.S. Coupon code below!
Shoes- c/o Bettie Page
Jewelry- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski

I guess it's not surprising, but Voodoo Vixen has a ton of adorable prints in their new spring/summer collection.  I decided to go for the Clara dress, which features a bow at the neckline, figure flattering banded waist, and a gathered skirt.  It's light and airy, but fully lined for a modest but comfortable feel.  It also has adjustable straps, which is a huge plus for a long waisted body like mine.  I own quite a few Voodoo Vixen dresses and I find this one to be the best fitting of the bunch.  Oh, and did I mention it's on sale?!  As an extra thank you, use the code "belle20" for an additional 20% off your entire order.  This code will be valid until July 31st.  Happy shopping!

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, May 27, 2016

Black Fridays

Campbell Crafts 1950's Limited Edition Diner Shirt in Black Pinup Girl Clothing Capri Pants in Black

This is a different but welcomed change from my usual attire.  I've always been one for a big fluffy swing skirt, but this diner top from Campbell Crafts called for something out of the ordinary.  Based out of the UK, owner/stylist Lindsay Campbell offers her own line of dresses and separates (like my top), in addition to some of your favorite reproduction brands.  You can find an entire vintage inspired outfit, accessories included, at Campbell Crafts!

Campbell Crafts 1950's Limited Edition Diner Shirt in Black Pinup Girl Clothing Capri Pants in Black

Campbell Crafts 1950's Limited Edition Diner Shirt in Black Pinup Girl Clothing Capri Pants in Black

Campbell Crafts 1950's Limited Edition Diner Shirt in Black Pinup Girl Clothing Capri Pants in Black

Campbell Crafts 1950's Limited Edition Diner Shirt in Black Pinup Girl Clothing Capri Pants in Black

Campbell Crafts 1950's Limited Edition Diner Shirt in Black Pinup Girl Clothing Capri Pants in Black

Top- c/o Campbell Crafts
Pants- Pinup Girl Clothing
Shoes- Pinup Girl Clothing
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Headband- Old

This top features a gathered shoulder, half sleeve, button down closure, light pink piping, and black and white lapels.  While it does provide a lot of stretch in the fabric, I would suggest sizing up if you're big chested.  This top is the perfect length for tucking into a skirt, but I decided on a cropped look to match my high waisted capri pants.  It's a great staple that can take you from the office to happy hour!

Tonight is Ladies Night Out at the Pinup Girl Boutique, and we're hosting a mini Yard Sale!  I'll be looking forward to seeing all our regulars, as well as the ladies who come out specifically for this event.  I may have to work all weekend, but Kevin and I both have Monday off for Memorial Day.  I literally cannot wait!

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Cat's Meow

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Grey Cat Print Peasant Top in Yellow

When you're highly allergic to cats but you love them like crazy, you settle for the next best thing: A Mary Blair cat skirt.  As you probably already know, Mary Blair is one my favorite illustrators.  The fact that Pinup Girl Clothing dedicates an entire line to her beautiful artwork is simply a dream come true!  I wasn't going to add the new color way of this print to my closet initially, but I fell in love when I saw it in person.  The pastel scheme allows you to pair it with pretty much any color in your closet.  I settled on the yellow, but I wore it with pink to work last week  (seen here).  I can't help but sing praises about having kitties all over me without the allergic throat closures, haha!

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Grey Cat Print Peasant Top in Yellow

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Grey Cat Print Peasant Top in Yellow

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Grey Cat Print Peasant Top in Yellow

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Grey Cat Print Peasant Top in Yellow

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Grey Cat Print Peasant Top in Yellow

Top- Pinup Girl Clothing
Skirt- Pinup Girl Clothing
Shoes- c/o Bettie Page Shoes
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Belt- From another dress
Bracelet- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski

Yesterday Bianca and I had the opportunity to shoot the new Mary Blair kids line for Pinup Girl Clothing.  There are matching dresses in each print for your little one to enjoy with you!  We worked with two other mommy/daughter duos and while it was super fun, it was incredibly stressful for me.  Bianca wasn't on her best behavior (typical two year old) and trying to wrangle her to model by herself was way more difficult than I imagined.  Luckily, the day got easier as she got more comfortable.  I can't wait to see the final images and buy her all the matching dresses when they drop this summer!

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, May 23, 2016

Beyond The Sea

Unique Vintage Retrospect'd 1950s Pin Up Style Blue Beyond The Sea Cotton Swing Sun Dress

Can we just take a minute to appreciate this gorgeous dress from Unique Vintage?  I've been on the hunt for something cute, summery, and covered in a fun novelty print and this dress hits them all.  I may not be close enough to the shore at this very moment, but I can enjoy the idea of it when I wear this dress.  Who needs to own a boat when you can wear them?!

Unique Vintage Retrospect'd 1950s Pin Up Style Blue Beyond The Sea Cotton Swing Sun Dress

Unique Vintage Retrospect'd 1950s Pin Up Style Blue Beyond The Sea Cotton Swing Sun Dress

Unique Vintage Retrospect'd 1950s Pin Up Style Blue Beyond The Sea Cotton Swing Sun Dress

Unique Vintage Retrospect'd 1950s Pin Up Style Blue Beyond The Sea Cotton Swing Sun Dress

Unique Vintage Retrospect'd 1950s Pin Up Style Blue Beyond The Sea Cotton Swing Sun Dress 
Shoes- c/o Unique Vintage
Belt- Old
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Bracelet- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski

Unique Vintage now carries Retrospect'd dresses, which just so happens to be a new addiction of mine.  Made in Australia, these garments are designed by two lovely sisters who believe the quality should be top notch and their prints to die for!  This particular dress features a slightly gathered bust, fitted waist, full gathered skirt, side pockets, and adjustable straps.  It's also made from 100% cotton, which means it's just as comfortable as it is cute.  Now that I can find Retrospect'd here in the states through Unique Vintage, I'll be adding many more to my wardrobe!

I had a much needed day off this weekend, which meant I had the chance to spend time with Kevin and Bianca AT THE SAME TIME.  We ended up at a friend's house for a bbq, which was wonderful because everyone who attended also had kids.  Bianca doesn't get too much time with kids her age, so it's always a treat to see her interact with others.  I think she's at the age where she can start some kind of extra curricular activity, which will probably be ballet or dance.  I'll let her decide of course!

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, May 20, 2016

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

I feel like I've come across so many fun goodies this month!  In addition to my favorite brands releasing their sprint/summer collections, I've discovered some fun new shops as well.  Here are my picks for this month:

Em And Sprout
1. Mermaid Sisters Art Print
2. Bat Necklace
3. Ghost Print Skater Fit and Flare Dress
4. Halloween Themed Zippered Pouch
5. Pineapple Whip Float Art Print

Em & Sprout is a new addiction of mine.  Lindsay, the lovely lady behind the shop, sells everything from adorable prints, to jewelry, and even her own dresses!  She was lovely enough to provide me with a coupon code, so if you're dying to own some of her creations like me, use the code "supercute" for 15% off your order!


Trashy Diva Ruffled Feathers
1. AJ Morgan Sass Sunglasses
2. Peony Flower Clip
3. Trixie Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print
4. Cropped Cardigan in Sage
5. Remix Veronica Heel in Red

Who else is dying to add the new Ruffled Feathers print to their wardrobe?  I already have the Camilla (reviewed HERE), but I really can't get my mind off the Trixie dress.  I went ahead and created the perfect outfit surrounding the dress.  There's just so many great colors to pull from it!


Go Jane
1. Tropical Take Faux Suede Wedges
2. Point Taken Faux Nubuck D'Orsay Flats
3. New In Town Jelly Wedges
4. Floral Possibilities Ballet Flats
5. Fluffed Up Faux Leather Heels

Shoes are the perfect way to tie together an outfit.  I love shoes like the next gal, but I don't like to spend too much.  Go Jane always has the greatest styles and their prices won't break the bank.  I'm particularly enamored with those wedge jellies, it brings together my inner child and outer fashionista!


Two Fish Project
1. Cyclops X-Men Poster
2. Storm X-Men Poster
3. Wolverine X-Men Poster
4. Phoenix X-Men Poster
5. Mystique X-Men Poster

Who else is excited for the new X-Men movie?!  As a long time fan, I can't wait to see it!  Two Fish Project specializes in adorable posters, but I'm dying over their X-Men collection.  I dare you to take a look and not find something for your home!


Target
1. Mid Century Modern Side Table
2. Nearly Natural 5” Mixed Succulent Hanging Ball
3. Sinclair 2-Tier Bar Cart
4. Mid Century Modern Swoop Chair
5. Lazy Susan 43 in. Gold Metal Wall Art
6. Mercade Mini Vases
7. Mid Century Modern Storage Cabinet

I guess this isn't surprising, but Target is killing it in their decor collection!  They have a ridiculous amount of mid century modern furniture and accessories, I basically want everything.  We're currently renovating our living room and it may or may not be filled with Target goodies..


Disney Prints
1. Marie, Berlioz, and Toulouse Watercolor Art Print
2. Baymax Big Hero 6 Watercolor Art Print
3. Princess Merida Watercolor Art Print
4. Maleficent Watercolor Art Print
5. Dumbo Timothy Mouse Watercolor Art Print

I seriously want to cover my walls in these gorgeous Disney watercolor prints!  While Marco Friend offers more than just Disney characters, I'm head over heels for these ones.  I'm definitely getting Bianca a Belle print!


What's on your wish list this month?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Ruffled Feathers

Trashy Diva Camilla Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print

I don't usually need a mid-week pick me up (I only work on weekends) but these last few days have been crazy!  Yesterday was an anticipated Disney day but nothing really went as planned.  It was crowded, people were less than polite, and Bianca was being a typical two year old.  Luckily, I just received this brand new Camilla dress from Trashy Diva and it totally brightened my spirits!

Trashy Diva Camilla Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print

Trashy Diva Camilla Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print

Trashy Diva Camilla Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print

Trashy Diva Camilla Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print

Trashy Diva Camilla Dress in Ruffled Feathers Print

Dress- c/o Trashy Diva
Shoes- Modcloth
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss in Bordeaux

Trashy Diva just released their new Ruffled Feathers collection, which is a fun take on a 1940's novelty print.  While it's bright and vibrant, I feel like the roosters don't truly show themselves until you're close up.  As an avid animal and novelty print lover, this collection speaks to my soul!  The fabric is new as well, a thicker but smooth and stretchy rayon.  I own all kinds of Trashy Diva fabrics and this stretch rayon is easily my favorite.  The Camilla dress is much like the Bianca dress without the long sleeve (which I've reviewed HERE), but a sweet ruffled short sleeve.  The thick banded waist is great for accentuating your curves and feels comfortable yet structured.  The gathered skirt is shorter than I'm used to, but it's a welcomed change from my usual silhouette.  My husband was pleasantly surprised with this one!

Because of the stretch in the fabric, I was able to size down to a 2 from my usual 4.  I was nervous at first, but the dress was a perfect fit.  I'd highly suggest sizing down if you find yourself between sizes.  I'm trying to convince myself I don't need the L'Amour version in this print (I have a one style per print rule) but I seriously can't help myself.  I'm head over heels for Ruffled Feathers!

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, May 16, 2016

Giraffe House

IMG_4634a

I don't know if I'll ever tire from dressing Bianca in matching outfits with me.  At this moment in time she loves dressing just like mommy.  She loves picking out her adorable outfits, twirling in pretty dresses, and pretending to be a princess.  I know this could change at any time, so I'm just going to enjoy it for as long as possible.  Bryony & Co. has an amazing assortment of mommy and me dresses, I definitely had a hard time picking my favorite!  But we decided on these Giraffe House dresses and can't get enough of them!

Bryony & Co. Mabel Dress in Ivory Giraffe Martha Dress in Giraffe House

Bryony & Co. Mabel Dress in Ivory Giraffe Martha Dress in Giraffe House

Bryony & Co. Mabel Dress in Ivory Giraffe Martha Dress in Giraffe House

Bryony & Co. Mabel Dress in Ivory Giraffe Martha Dress in Giraffe House

Bryony & Co. Mabel Dress in Ivory Giraffe Martha Dress in Giraffe House

Dress- c/o Bryony
Shoes- c/o Bettie Page
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder

Bianca's Dress- c/o Bryony
Shoes- Payless

These dresses are a nice lightweight cotton and fully lined.  In addition to the adorable border print, I love the relaxed fit of my dress.  It definitely makes it more of a day to day comfortable outfit.  Each dress from Bryony & Co. comes with a story book that coincides with the print of the dress.  Because of the giraffes, Bianca had me read her story over and over.  She's quite obsessed!  Bianca, Kevin, and I have a trip planned to the San Diego Wild Animal Park this month (we don't visit places that encourage animal captivity) and she's going to see a real giraffe for the first time.  You better believe we'll be wearing these dresses as well!

If you're looking to add a Bryony & Co. dress to your wardrobe, make sure to use the coupon code CALIFORNIA15 for 15% off your entire order :).

xoxo

Ashley

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, May 13, 2016

How To Dye Your Hair Extensions

As many of you know, I love to wear extensions.  I enjoy being able to choose whether I want my hair to be styled long or short on any given day.  Because my hair is such a specific color, I couldn't just pick something that matched my color off the shelf.  I've become very familiar with the dyeing process and thanks to Irresistible Me Hair Extensions, I'll be giving you a step by step process to help you achieve the perfect color!

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Peasant Top in Dark Blue Irresistible Me Hair Extensions

Here's a list of things I needed for the process:
Irresistible Me Hair Extensions
- Irresistible Me Hair Extensions in Silky Platinum Blonde
- Hair dye of choice.  I used Sparks Color in Purple Passion, which I mix with conditioner to achieve the desired color.  If you use hair dye with developer, I'd suggest mixing according to the instructions provided.
- Gloves
- Mixing bowl
- Tint brush
- Fine toothed comb (not pictured but very important!)
- Dark colored towel

Create Your Space/ Mix Your Color
Irresistible Me Hair Extensions
Start by creating your work space with the dark towel.  Even if you do end up staining the towel, you'll never know it!  Then begin to mix your dye.  Due to my method of coloring (which is pretty standard when you're doing something rainbow colored), I have to do a strand test first to make sure I create the desired color I need.  I start with one of my smallest strands and brush the color into the hair slightly.  In this case, it was a little too light so I had to add some more color.  Once you have the perfect shade you're ready to go!

Irresistible Me Hair Extensions

Paint!
Irresistible Me Hair Extensions
I like to start with the thickest strand first.  If you've never worn Irresistible Me extensions before, they provide one extremely thick weft that perfectly fills in "negative space" that other extension companies don't offer.  It's seriously the best because it makes your long hair very hard to detect as fake!  It will take a very long time to get into every nook and cranny when you're dyeing it though.  I actually part the weft in half and color each side, as it helps with getting all the color in there.  Use a fine toothed comb to very gently comb through the weft after you apply a few strokes of color.  It's a great help when you want to evenly distribute the color.  Make sure to saturate the seam line, as well as the hair behind the clip.  Those areas are easily forgotten!  Once the entire weft is saturated, comb through once more and set aside on your towel.  Keep repeating until all the wefts are saturated with color.

Irresistible Me Hair Extensions

Let It Sit
Irresistible Me Hair Extensions
The next step all depends on the color you use for your extensions.  Make sure to process the color for as long as the instructions advise you to do so.  If you're using a vegetable based color like myself, the longer you leave it on the better.  I set my towel into an empty bathtub (so my toddler/dogs don't get curious) and go about my day.  The least amount of time I'll process it is two hours, but if I start the process at night I'll leave it in until morning.

Wash It Out
Because this isn't hair from your head (and won't grow back), I always take extra precautions when washing the color out.  Make sure to use cold water to keep the color locked in.  Once you've done a clean rinse, take a weft and lightly shampoo, wash, and deep condition it.  Then set it aside to absorb the conditioner.  Continue this process with each weft.  Once they're all done, start washing the conditioner off of each one.

Let It Dry
I highly recommend letting your extensions dry naturally.  I'll take another dark towel and gently squeeze (not rub) the hair as dry as I can.  I'll then take a skirt hanger and clip the wefts to hang dry.  Once they've dried completely, I'll style them to my heart's desire!

I'd like to note that since I've composed this post I've changed my hair color (and my hair extensions) to dark brown.  I basically repeated the exact process and they turned out lovely!  While I don't recommend dyeing your extensions frequently, I was quite impressed with how resilient they are.

Have any questions?  Please let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Umbrella

Vintage Umbrella Print Dress Bettie Page Shoes Southern California Belle

It's been quite a dark and dreary week, especially for May, so I decided to dress the part.  This amazing vintage dress is one of my newest finds.  A friend of mine was letting it go and I had to claim it as my own.  Made from a lightweight cotton, this dress features the cutest chevron style drop waist, red piping, ties at the shoulders, and a full gathered skirt.  Of course, the best part is the red umbrella print.  It's truly a one of a kind dress that now has a permanent place in my closet!

Vintage Umbrella Print Dress Bettie Page Shoes Southern California Belle

Vintage Umbrella Print Dress Bettie Page Shoes Southern California Belle

Vintage Umbrella Print Dress Bettie Page Shoes Southern California Belle

Vintage Umbrella Print Dress Bettie Page Shoes Southern California Belle

Dress- Vintage
Shoes- c/o Unique Vintage
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Candy Apple

A few of my girlfriends and I went to the 25th anniversary screening of Beauty and the Beast on Monday.  Not only did we get to watch the original 70mm film, we also listened to a discussion panel with many of the voices, animators, and producers.  It was completely surreal.  Beauty and the Beast has always been my favorite Disney movie and being a part of this event was truly a dream come true.  I'm not going to lie, I teared up more than a few times!  The next day I decided it was Bianca's turn to see the movie for the first time.  Again, I cried like a baby watching her react to the movie, much like I did when I saw it 25 years ago.  Being able to share things from my childhood is truly one of my favorite parts of parenting.  I feel like it's passing on a piece of myself to her, so you can imagine the emotions that come with it.  I'm just happy she likes Belle just as much as she does Elsa!

xoxo

Ashley
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