Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Poker For Puppies

Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
Quite a long time ago my blog wasn't all fashion/personal style centered and I talked about things that really meant something to me.  While fashion is definitely one of those things, it doesn't compare to my love for animals in need.  Exactly seven years ago today, I adopted my first dog from Dawg Squad.  My little boy Punchy, or Fendi as he was originally named, was a young little chihuahua who was literally discarded by someone and then taken in by Dawg Squad.  Like all their dogs, Dawg Squad kept him with a wonderful foster, took care of all his medical needs, and didn't let him go until they found the right family for him.  Since then, I've adopted two more dogs from them and have tried to stay active with the organization ever since.

Untitled

On Sunday, April 8th, Dawg Squad is hosting their 6th annual Poker For Puppies event.  The event is exactly as it sounds: you get to play poker and contribute to Dawg Squad's amazing cause!  Not only will an epic poker tournament take place, there will also be a casino lounge, silent auction, lots of adorable adoptable dogs to love on, celebrity players, a DJ, appetizers, dinner, and Sub Zero ice cream!  There are thousands of dollars worth of prizes this year, including:

  • Universal Studios passes
  • Southwest Airlines tickets
  • A trip to South Africa
  • Electronics
  • Gift Baskets
  • Gift Cards
  • And so much more!

The event is taking place at the Sportsman's Lodge Hotel in Studio City, California.  I used to live down the street from this hotel and I love this event space!  The doors open at 2pm and the poker tournament will start at 3pm.  You can purchase tickets HERE but here's a quick overview:

  • $100 for entry fee for the poker tournament
  • $40 general admission entry for casino games

You have to be at least 21 to attend and the parking is free.  Not in California or busy the day of the event?  You can still sponsor Poker For Puppies; whether it's a cash or prize donation, sponsoring a casino game, the bar, or even the presenting sponsor at the event!  You can email Carole, the event coordinator and woman behind Dawg Squad, at DawgSquad@rocketmail.com.

Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
Players in action (with a cute distracting pup)
 
Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
Vinny (click his picture for more info)!
 
Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
Celebrity player James Woods
 
Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
Lilith (click her picture for more info)!
 
Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
High five!
 
Dawg Squad Poker For Puppies
Haskell (click his picture for more info)!

Both Kevin and I will be in attendance that day, I hope you'll come and have some fun for a good cause with us!

For more information on Dawg Squad, the non-profit 501(c) 3 corporation established according to California laws for public benefit, or to adopt one of their amazing dogs, please visit www.DawgSquad.org.

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, February 26, 2018

Embroidery in Bloom

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress Rockabilly Baby Spring Bud Dress in Embroidery in Bloom

I've been itching to post a new Mommy and Me outfit and I'm super excited to talk about these dresses!  Trashy Diva surprised their fans last week with a mini collection: Embroidery in Bloom.  Featuring two new dress styles with matching little lady frocks, this collection truly spoke to my and Bianca's love for matching gorgeous outfits.  This chambray set is a great basic with lots of fun details to make you stand out in the crowd.  Needless to say, we're both completely enamored with our new dresses!

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress in Embroidery in Bloom Southern California Belle

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress in Embroidery in Bloom Southern California Belle

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress Rockabilly Baby Spring Bud Dress in Embroidery in Bloom

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress Rockabilly Baby Spring Bud Dress in Embroidery in Bloom

Trashy Diva Rockabilly Baby Spring Bud Dress in Embroidery in Bloom

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress Rockabilly Baby Spring Bud Dress in Embroidery in Bloom

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress in Embroidery in Bloom Southern California Belle

Trashy Diva Rockabilly Baby Spring Bud Dress in Embroidery in Bloom

Trashy Diva Spring Bloom Dress in Embroidery in Bloom Southern California Belle

Dress- c/o Trashy Diva
Shoes- c/o Bettie Page Clothing
Lipstick- Julie Hewett in Biba

Bianca's dress- c/o Trashy Diva
Bianca's shoes- Payless Shoes

Photography: Susie Delaney

I'm wearing the Spring Bloom dress, which is basically like their Ruby Middy with some fun new details.  This dress has stretchy side panels in the bodice, which means you have taco room when needed!  I'm usually between a 2 and 4 in all Trashy Diva styles and I easily took the 2 in this one.  It also has adjustable straps for the perfect fit (my long torso appreciates that so much), candy colored buttons down the front, a circle skirt with slight gathers at the sides, and exposed embroidered flower basket pockets.  As you can see from the photos, the pockets aren't netting, but actual embroidery on the chambray.  So you can fill those pockets (I had a comb in mine) and nobody would know what you have stuffed in there.

Bianca is wearing the Spring Bud dress, which features the same stretch side panels, buttons, and exposed pockets as my Spring Bloom dress.  It also has self tie straps, so you can tie them to your little one's liking.  This dress also has a much longer skirt than most other Rockabilly Baby styles, which I'm a huge fan of because Bianca is quite tall.  She's between a 5/6 and 7/8 right now, and I picked the 7/8 for her.  Honestly, she probably would have fit in a 5/6 much better, but because she's growing like a weed, I'm going to keep this one so she can wear it for years to come.

Special thanks to one of my favorite friends, Susie Delaney, for shooting these pictures for us.  I'm normally fussing with a tripod, my daughter, our hair and outfits, while trying to look photo ready and it is exhausting!  She made this not only bearable, but super fun too.  I'm going to treasure these photos forever!

xoxo

Ashley

Thursday, February 22, 2018

Sugar Plum

Smak Parlour Short Sleeve Black Faux Wrap Dress

You'd think as I got older my hemlines would get longer but that's definitely not the case!  I've been showing off more leg than usual, which would normally be an intimidating style choice for me.  Smak Parlour's spring collection is full of fun, flirty dresses which give me the confidence I need to continue to step out of my comfort zone.  This faux wrap dress is an easy "throw on and go" piece that's effortlessly chic and incredibly comfortable to wear.  Who says a little black dress can't be comfy and cute?

Smak Parlour Short Sleeve Black Faux Wrap Dress

Smak Parlour Short Sleeve Black Faux Wrap Dress

Smak Parlour Short Sleeve Black Faux Wrap Dress

Smak Parlour Short Sleeve Black Faux Wrap Dress

Smak Parlour Short Sleeve Black Faux Wrap Dress

Dress- c/o Smak Parlour
Shoes- Chelsea Crew
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Sugar Plum

This classic dress is made from a pebble crepe material and features a deep surplice neckline with a hidden snap closure (so you don't have to worry about spilling out), tulip sleeves, contrasting polka dot piping, twirl-worthy skirt, self tie belt, and a back zippered closure.  As someone who generally feels uncomfortable about deep v-necklines, having that hidden snap closure in the center is everything.  The tulip sleeves are great because you have full range of motion in your arms.  Considering how much I pick up my daughter, I'm glad I don't have to worry about ripping my dress in the process.  I'm wearing my usual size small in Smak Parlour dresses and I find this one to be very true to size.  I've worn this number a few times since I've received it and I seem to get endless compliments when I do!

I'm looking forward to this weekend because I've planned a fun day with the family.  I was hoping to away overnight, but that tends to get complicated when you have four dogs at home.  So we're going on a road trip but keeping it somewhat local.  I've been dying to show Bianca the world but I guess we'll be doing that in baby steps!

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, February 16, 2018

Poesy

Joanie Clothing Poesy Dogtooth Print Tea Dress

I'm not going to lie: taking these pictures in crazy wind conditions was not ideal.  But without a doubt, this outfit was just too cute to go without documenting!  Joanie Clothing has been right on the money with their new 60's/70's inspired styles and this Poesy dress is no exception.  The figure flattering style, warm colors, and cute dogtooth print is perfect for this "winter but so acting like spring" weather.

Joanie Clothing Poesy Dogtooth Print Tea Dress

Joanie Clothing Poesy Dogtooth Print Tea Dress

Joanie Clothing Poesy Dogtooth Print Tea Dress

Joanie Clothing Poesy Dogtooth Print Tea Dress

Joanie Clothing Poesy Dogtooth Print Tea Dress

Dress- c/o Joanie Clothing
Shoes- Chelsea Crew (on sale!)
Earrings- c/o Vinca USA
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Veronica

The Poesy dress is made from a light poly fabric and features a fun ruffled neckline, short sleeves,  a-line skirt, matching navy belt, and a back zippered closure.  I ordered my usual UK8 and I felt like the arms were a little tight (although my arms tend to be larger than a normal UK8).  Still wearable as is, but if you happen to be between sizes I'd definitely recommend sizing up.  I paired them with my new peach earrings from Vinca USA and I think it really polished off my fun retro look.  While I'm usually wearing 40's and 50's inspired looks, I'm so ready to take on some different styles and silhouettes this year!

Black Panther is officially out today and I can't even contain my excitement!  I'm going to have to wait until tomorrow to see it (that's when I have a babysitter) but I'm really looking forward to it.  As an intersectional feminist, I'm so proud to see a big-budget movie with an almost all black cast (many of them strong women characters), a black director, and a black costume designer.  I feel like it's really important to support this movie but it also helps that it is a massive hit among critics.  Here's to hoping it breaks all the records this weekend!  Are you going to see Black Panther?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Ocean Vibes

Erstwilder Ocean Vibes
In case you didn't know: Erstwilder's Ocean Vibes collection just launched!  Full of fun sea creatures in a beachy motif, this new launch has me dreaming of summer days.  This collection features 17 new designs: 13 brooches, 3 necklaces, and one set of earrings.  While it was a struggle, I've picked my top four favorites.  Check them out below!

Not A Rock
Erstwilder Not A Rock

Erstwilder Not A Rock
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Top- Target
Barrette- Free People
Lipstick- Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red

I have quite an obsession with lobsters, so adding Not A Rock to my collection was imperative!  He has this gorgeous marbling and really amps up any outfit.  I love him so very much, I think he's my new favorite!

Slippin' Under
Erstwilder Slippin' Under

Erstwilder Slippin' Under
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Top- c/o Top Vintage
Barrette- Free People
Lipstick- Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red

I can't even explain how beautiful this brooch is.  The vibrant colors and marbling really pop, pictures do not do it justice!  Slippin' Under also has a matching necklace and earrings, in case you really want to run with the jellyfish theme.

Storm Lord
Erstwilder Storm Lord

Erstwilder Storm Lord
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Top- Target
Barrette- Free People
Lipstick- Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red

Can I just say that it's about time we got a merman brooch?!  Storm Lord is such a great addition to my ever-growing brooch collection.  He's a really nice size and he has marbling on his hair and tail and glitter on his trident.  Basically, he's perfect!

Nina of the North
Erstwilder Nina of the North

Erstwilder Nina of the North
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Top- c/o Top Vintage
Barrette- Free People
Lipstick- Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Always Red

Who doesn't need a cute narwhal named Nina in their life?  Without a doubt one of my favorite sea creatures, Nina was an obvious choice for me.  I love the subtle hint of glitter on her tusk.  I can't wait to add her to all my nautical outfits!

You can see the rest of the collection HERE.  What are your favorites in the Ocean Vibes collection?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Breton

Joanie Clothing Fritha Breton Stripe Collar Dress

I can't help but feel Parisian chic in this Joanie Clothing dress.  Stretchy and comfy and full of fun details, this striped gem is perfect for the office, a night out on the town, and beyond!  Since I won't be visiting the Arc de Triomphe or The Lourve anytime soon, dressing the part is the next best thing, right?!

Joanie Clothing Fritha Breton Stripe Collar Dress

Joanie Clothing Fritha Breton Stripe Collar Dress

Joanie Clothing Fritha Breton Stripe Collar Dress

Joanie Clothing Fritha Breton Stripe Collar Dress

Joanie Clothing Fritha Breton Stripe Collar Dress

Dress- c/o Joanie Clothing
Shoes- Modcloth
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Barette- Free People
Belt- from another dress
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Matte Lipstick in Ruby

The Fritha dress is made from a stretch jersey material and features a Peter Pan collar, attached bow at the neckline, half sleeves, an a-line skirt, and an exposed back zippered closure.  I don't usually gravitate to 60's inspired dresses but I feel like this dress has changed that!  I'm wearing my usual size UK8 and it fits like a dream.  I love how the collar is wide enough to add a cute brooch, I often fall in love with dresses that aren't "brooch friendly".  I have a feeling the Fritha will be in regular rotation from now on!

I'm laying low today because tomorrow I'm going to enjoy a special Disney day with my friends.  We haven't been (as a group) in a very long time and I feel like we all need some time to get away and enjoy the park.  I haven't decided what I'm going to wear yet, but I feel like I might be going casual...  You can follow me on Instagram to see my outfit and excerpts of my trip!

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, February 2, 2018

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

I'm feeling the love for Valentine's Day this year!  While red and pink and cute heart prints are great all year around, I love to pack them in during these next two weeks.  Lots of fun shops have Valentine's Day collections and I've highlighted some of my favorite festive items below:

Modcloth
  1. Surely Sweet A Line Dress
  2. Heart It All Before Clutch
  3. Loly in the Sky Everyday Amour Flat
  4. Pinup Poise Tie Neck Blouse
Modcloth's Sweetheart Shop is full of goodies from head to toe!  I'm dying over that heart clutch, I need it in my life.  Plus, if you haven't had the pleasure of owning flats from Loly in the Sky, you are missing out!  They're pretty much the most comfortable shoes with the cutest designs on the vamp.  I'll take a pair of those too!


Vixen by Micheline Pitt
  1. Vanity Fair Dress in Spiderweb
  2. Vixen Not A Victim T-Shirt
  3. Not Your Doll T-Shirt
  4. Frenchie Swing Dress in Black
Micheline just dropped the pre-orders for her floral and spiderweb goodies and I couldn't be more excited!  I'm also obsessed with that Frenchie dress and as a sexual assault victim, I'm all about her t-shirt collaboration with RAINN (rape, abuse, and incest national network).  Whether you're single or attached, nobody has control over your body.  And to those who've been victimized, you don't need to be ashamed of your trauma.  A large portion of these sales will go to RAINN and I couldn't be more proud of this organization.


Unique Vintage
  1. Tomato Red & Oatmeal Heart Long Sleeve Knit Sweater Top
  2. Retro Style Black Leatherette & Red Heart Ballet Flats
  3. Banned Retro Red Patent Leatherette Hard Heart Handbag
  4. Black Heartbreaker Print Knit Flare Dress
Gimme all the heart goodies!  How cute is that heart print skater dress?  I love how sweet and casual it is, I feel like it would look amazing with those heart flats.  Having a casual night in?  This sweater top and your favorite jeans (or sweatpants) are the perfect match!  Plus, you can get everything in their Valentine's Day collection 30% off with the code SWOON at checkout!


The Oblong Box Shop
  1. Hostess with the Mostess Red and White Stripe Circle Skirt
  2. Heart Cateye Sunglasses
  3. Pink Heart Wicker Purse
  4. Black Heart Love Sweater
Not all Valentine's goodies are sugary sweet and I feel like The Oblong Box Shop has a great range for those who love (or hate) the big day.  I am utterly head over heels with the Black Heart Love Sweater, I feel like it was made for me!  I've also convinced myself that I need a pair of heart shaped sunglasses.  Doesn't everyone?

What are your plans for Valentine's Day?  More importantly, what are you wearing?!  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley
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