Pencil Skirt

February 21, 2014
Ann Taylor


I wore this pencil skirt this week and paired it with a little lime green and snow leopard.  The snow has finally all melted but the lake was still frozen and looked beautiful.  While we were out on the dock taking photos the lake made a few haunting lurches and creeks.  Enough to scare us a little!  It is becoming second nature for me to mix and match patterns these days and this was no exception.  Check out the detailing on the inset of my skirt! 





Sweater Ann Taylor ~ Blouse Gap(similar on sale too) ~ Skirt Ann Taylor (similar)  ~ Boots old but I like these ~ Bag ThuFri c/o ~ Cable bracelet Rustic Cuff ~ Chain bracelet Claudia Rowe c/o ~



I first shared my love of Claudia Rowe here.  The Bristol chain bracelet plated in silver antique with 18k gold dipped hammered heart detail is perfect for layering.   I have on many occasions shared Rustic cuff with you here, here, and here, and her new line of bracelets include this Cable twist stainless steel bracelet with RC rectangle ends is gorgeous for sure. I carry my ThuFri bag I first shared with you here, everyday to the office with anything I might need to run errands with.  It is so roomy and stylish.  I am so excited to be sharing these fabulous designers with you again. The Python Away Weekend clutch  has a removable chain strap and roomy interior making it suitable for a chic cosmetic case or to carry all the necessities for a night out. It's great for keeping small valuables organized for a weekend or everyday when slipped into an Everyday Tote. I love mine! 



As I mentioned yesterday, today is another collaboration giveaway of more favorites!  I know... I do have a lot of favorites!!  One lucky Peridot Sky's reader will win both the Claudia Rowe Bristol chain bracelet and the Rustic Cuff cable twist, and the ThuFri Python Away clutch from their new line the Weekend!!  Pretty fabulous if I may say so myself!!




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Shinola

December 09, 2013
bags
I was recently introduced to Shinola.  I want to say a leather company, but that's not doing it justice.  They have fabulous watches, journals, and bikes too! There is a Shinola store local here in Kansas City on the Plaza and I spent some time playing among the wonderful watches and leather items they have to offer.  I must say, there is something to the feel of a sleek watch around your wrist.  I fell in love with a few that I wished came home with me.  Oh and a sign me up for the pretty pink bike!!


Making products that are beautiful, meaningful, and made to last, Shinola has partnered with a group of extraordinary American manufacturers who have an obsession with craftsmanship and quality.  Each of their partners, from Horween Leather to Waterford Precision Cycles, has a long legacy of excellence. 



Horween, a family-owned company founded over a century ago by Isidore Horween in Chicago, Illinois produces Shinola leather in one of America’s longest-running tanneries.  An exceptional leather of renowned quality, apparent in its color, texture, and the beautiful character it develops over time, the Horween tanning process still uses many of the same hand-based techniques the company has used from the very beginning. Although these techniques demand a highly-skilled team of craftspeople, and the process  a bit more timely and expensive than conventionally-produced leather, the end result is the same it’s been since the company’s founding.  Whether it’s a wallet, journal cover, or handbag, Horween demonstrates the care and close attention that defines American-made quality.  The leather is shipped to the expert craftspeople of Eric Scott in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri where the leather undergoes an intensive hands-on production process, from the cutting and stitching to the splitting and skiving.  Done by skilled workers, many of whom have been perfecting their craft for decades, this experience is ultimately what sets their craftspeople apart, with each detail of every item they produce.


They even have a curated collection and this little piggy is screaming to come home with me!


Shinola has partnered with me to offer this unique case for your iPhone that showcases American-made craftsmanship.  It features premium vegetable-tanned Horween leather that will develop rich character through exposure and daily use. Fits the iPhone 5, 4S, and 4.  It feel good in your hand, and the leather is soft, yet thick, and I am sure you will love it.  You just pull the cute little leather tab to raise your phone from the soft protective case.  There is also a front pocket to keep  your license of business cards handy too.  



To enter to win this beautiful green leather iPhone case, just follow the instructions in the rafflercopter form below, and good luck! 
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Bambina

November 22, 2013
bags
Browsing around Etsy on evening I came across the most colorful store.  Bambina caught my eye with all the bright leathers and the many different styles to chose.  I knew immediately I wanted the share her shop with you.  Cheryl sent me a business card case to review and enjoy and I am so glad she did.   So let me start by saying this is the softest leather ever.  No really.  Soft, and supple.  And look at all the colors to choose from! Her designs and attention to detail are spot on.  The stitching is perfect, and the seams are straight.  Loving the metallics, and these darling little live love laugh pouches. Hello? Can you say stocking stuffers?

 Oh, and did I mention affordable?  Yup!   I shared a few of my favorites from her store, and asked if she would share a little bit about her, and her design process below.  I think you're going to love her!!!!





1. Where do you draw inspiration from for your designs? 
Inspiration for me comes from anywhere and everywhere. From traveling to travel photography to interior design magazines and everything in between. I'm always attracted to and inspired by colour so anything I design will have a splash of colour in it. No matter what I make, it has to be practical, whimsical and colourful.

2. What made you take the plunge and start your own business? 
I think if you're passionate about what you do you should pursue it. I wanted to design my own line of accessories so for me there was no hesitation about starting my own business. It was a very natural next step to take after I got a degree in design.


3. Share a little bit about your own personal style and what we might find in your closet.
For me Miss Marple is a style icon. My own personal style is relaxed but put together. I'm not mad about trends that will last a season but prefer to buy pieces that I'll know I can continue to wear over the years and will coordinate easily with existing pieces in my wardrobe. I don't like spending time thinking about what to wear so I can usually pull something together very quickly from my wardrobe (since I have mostly separates that work together). I love my riding boots (which I've had since 2008) and wear them practically daily in winter - unless it's raining or snowing then I'll throw on my turquoise Hunter boots. Both go well with skinny jeans from Top Shop and a Boden top or sweater. For summer and warmer weather I toss on ballet flats or my sandal standby - a pair of classic leather sandals from Greece that go with everything. If I'm wearing a dress it's a wrap with Sigerson Morrison boots or a tunic with wedge espedrilles or flat sandals. 

4. If you had to choose, which piece is your favorite?
I have several pieces that are faves and that might be considered go to pieces. This season I've been wearing my Boden Rainy Day Mac everyday. It's lightly lined and perfect for autumn and spring. If I could wear it year round I would!

5. What are some of your favorite trends right now?
I'm not mad about trends - unless they are something timeless that are back in fashion. For me that would be a Breton striped top. They never go out of style. 

6. Which piece would you say is your best seller?
Hands down the Personalized Mia Leather Passport Cover has been my bestseller. It embodies the collection's philosophy of being practical, functional, whimsical and affordable. And of course it comes in loads of colour combinations so customers love the options they have to personalize them.
Thanks Cheryl!

Now for the great part, Bambina is offering a 10% discount for the next week on any purchase from her shop with the code SKYS10.  Seriously think about all the gifts.......stocking stuffers, co workers, neighbors, and even a little something for yourself you can order!  Hop over to her shop and look around, I think you will love it!

AEM Designs

November 15, 2013
Art
You know by now I love when I find a great artist or designer that has mad talent!  Meet Alexandra of AEM Designs.  When I first spotted her Etsy shop, I instantly knew I wanted to share it with you.  Unique pieces of art to add to your home. She sent me the state of Oklahoma for my home, but I really had an idea to share it with my son who is a major Oklahoma Sooner's fan! I took a sooner hat to the framers to pick the correct color of crimson.  Nothing like framing the picture in the wrong red.  And trust me, there is a wrong red when it comes to your school colors! It is a fabric mat and I just love it.  We framed it with a wide mat so he can add memorabilia to the mat.  I started it for him with a few OU dog tags I found local.  When your deep in Jayhawk country, Sooner stuff is hard to find!




  I know he doesn't read my blog, so I am safe to show you his gift! But if my daughter in law sees this, she better keep the secret!!   Her watercolors are soft and feminine and I love them too. Such a talent to work with watercolors.  I dabble in painting, and can be pretty crafty, but watercolor painting has always eluded me.   She offers many state drawings, and I think they make a great piece for your home.  
I asked her to share a few things with you and hope you like her as much as I do! Take it away Alexandra! 
1. Where do you draw inspiration from for your art? 

I draw inspiration from so many things. Most of my inspiration comes from observing. Whether it be looking through magazines, blogs, or walking down the street I find it every day. Last week I was sitting in sitting in Starbucks before work and I saw this woman wearing the cutest pink stripped dress. Just seeing that woman inspired me for this new fashion watercolor https://www.etsy.com/listing/169066395/fashion-watercolor?ref=shop_home_active. I am in love with art and creativity so a cup of tea and some good music is sometimes all I really need to get ideas moving.

2. What made you take the plunge and start your own business? 

I have always created art as long as I can remember. I’ve had everything from acrylic paintings, watercolors, charcoal pieces and pen illustrations saved up from years and years ago. It has been something that I had done as a hobby for so long and finally decided in May of this year (2013) to create AEM Designs. That saying kept running through my head “if not now, then when”, so I took the plunge and just went for it. My business started through social media, and eventually I created other online platforms like my Etsy shop and website.
I was surprised and felt so blessed at the positive response I got from people and how fast my little business grew. One thing I love about owning and running AEM Designs all on my own is that it is a learning process and every day is different. There are hard days, busy days, and wonderful days but it is so much fun and I without a doubt love every minute of it. Interacting with customers and putting together a unique piece that they can hang in their home or give to a loved one is such a wonderful and rewarding feeling.

3. Share a little bit about your own personal style and what we might find in your closet.

I am a jeans a t shirt kind of girl. I have always been fairly casual and love simple and laid back pieces. My style somewhat depends on what I am doing, what mood I am in, or where I am going. Don’t get me wrong I love dressing up for an occasion or just to go out for the weekend but simple, comfy, and cute describes my personal style. Here is a link to my fashion Pinterest board where you can see some pieces that I love: http://www.pinterest.com/aematthews/style/


4. If you had to choose, which piece is your favorite?

This is a hard one. Lately a piece I really love is my black and white fashion watercolor https://www.etsy.com/listing/156355557/fashion-watercolor?ref=shop_home_active

There is a photo of this when piece when I was featured in the Dallas Morning News (http://www.dallasnews.com/lifestyles/headlines/20130713-illustrator-alexandra-matthews-is-drawing-the-country-state-by-state.ece)    in the summer and whenever I look at the watercolor, it reminds me of that exciting time of my life. I also think simplicity is so beautiful, and I am drawn to how simple and modern this illustration is.

5. What are some of your favorite trends right now? 

I don’t know if it’s just me but I have been seeing a lot of green around; everything from emerald to army. I happen to love this color and think that it is gorgeous for fall. To me fall is the time for scarves, big sweaters, and boots which are a few of my favorite things to wear.
Thanks Alexandra! Make sure to follow her on all her social media too!

website - www.alexandramatthewsart.com
etsy - www.etsy.com/shop/AEMdesignsByAlex
Facebook- www.facebook.com/AEMdesignsByAlex
Instagram- aematthews4
Pinterest-  www.pinterest.com/aematthews/boards
Twitter - aematthews4

Alexandra has so graciously offered to my readers a 10% for the next week on anything in her shop!  Just enter the code PUMPKIN at checkout!  Start thinking of everyone on your Christmas list!  You know I did, but don't tell him!

May Designs ABC/123

November 01, 2013
Family


You know by now I love agendas, datebooks, and notepads, so when May Designs launched their new books for kids I knew the perfect little fella who needed one.  My oldest grandson started kindergarten this year and this practice book was perfect for him to use at home.






His book has a page for every letter in the alphabet, numbers 1-9 and blank pages for all the new words he will be able to write!  The very first thing he did was write his name in the front of his book!  It was so cute! And the school desk he is sitting in was his daddy's when he was a little boy. 

 I love my May books and if you know me, then you know anything personalized is awesome!  May Designs not only allows you to personalize your agenda, you get to choose the pattern, style, font, and even page inserts!  Love it!!  I created a few styles I thought would be great to own!


Aren't they so fun?  It just makes staying organized fun!


 I'm excited one of you will get to win a May Designs too.  If  you don't really have a youngster to gift it to, then well, by golly make a fun May Books for yourself!  I just love May Designs! Did I say that already?!   Follow the instruction in the rafflecopter form below and good luck!



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LA Plates

October 25, 2013
Art



Whether your a block, script, or single letter kind of girl or guy,  a monogram is a perfect accessory!  I had the pleasure of meeting and enjoying an afternoon visit with LA Plates recently.  A local gal, Lara Shelton is the brains and designer behind LA Plates.  I was like a kid in a candy store with so many selections of monograms.  As you can see, My monogram salad plates make the win right down the middle of the game.  Coordinating with several dinner plates, I style them to show you just how versatile her designs can be. Mix and match them to add color and style to your table!


A fall table is perfect with either of these combinations. 



And who doesn't need a set of these in their home for the holidays? Hmmmm??



So here is your chance to spice up your table this season!  Add your monogram to your table by entering to win a set of 4 monogrammed salad plates.  Chose between any of the styles or designs at LA Plates.  Monogrammed plates not your style?  Then maybe these naughty and nice salad plates would be the perfect addition to your holiday gathering!  You get to chose!! 

So to enter first visit La Plates and shop around.  click on all the tabs and see everything she has to offer.  Then, pin your favorite plate or design and be sure to mention the giveaway here in your pin.   Next, leave me a comment with your favorite design and  pin link and your in!!!  This is a mandatory step, so be sure to complete this first!  Simply huh? Who doesn't love pinning!!   For extra entries follow the instructions in the rafflecopter form below with all the extra ways to win!  


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Graphic Image Datebook

September 27, 2013
Colors
As we begin the last quarter of the year, its time to start thinking about your necessities for the new year. Yes, I just referred to the new year!  Graphic Image has the most fabulous leather office accessories.  From gorgeous desk accessories, to colorful datebooks, Graphic Image is definitely where you want to go for stylish office accoutrements. 

 I know many of you probably use your calendar on your phone to keep everything organized, but I prefer to use a paper planner, and when it looks this good who could blame me! I have teamed up with Graphic Image to giveaway a datebook for the coming year to one very lucky follower.  I did say lucky right!!?




A pretty note pad, my datebook, and laptop and I am organized.  I love to make list of all kinds.  I read once that if you keep a pad on your night stand, and wake in the night with thoughts and ideas, you should write them down and it frees your mind to get back to sleep.  It actually works!! I am busy between my blog, being a mom, and my day job that I need to be able to see what is on the horizon in my world, so when Graphic Image sent me this beautiful magenta embossed python datebook, I was excited.  Oh, and they even monogram it for you too! 



Let get to business shall we?  Follow the instruction in the rafflecopter form below.  Don't forget to tweet about it every day if you want extra entries too! 

 Good luck! 


a Rafflecopter giveaway



Cake For Breakfast

September 20, 2013
Colors


So you know that fabulous little ampersand tee in yesterdays post?  Well you have a chance to add it to your fall rotation!  Not only is the name of her shop darling,  Cake For Breakfast, but her tee's are super cute, and soft.  Meet Tessa, the beauty behind the cake!!  Tessa is newly engaged, and I am so excited for her and Danny! Have you checked out her blog?  Darling!!! 

When I first received my tee my outfit ideas were out of control.  I love the deep burgundy color, and the possibilities for fall were endless.   I have already worn mine several times, and next week I am sharing another outfit with you.   

She has a hard time keeping them in stock and I can see why!  Super soft, and oh so cute!  It is a little bit of a baby doll fit, so if you're  in doubt of your size, I suggest going up a size! So here is your chance to win one!  Enter below with the rafflecopter form for your choice of  color ampersand tee from Cake For Breakfast and be as happy as I am  with mine! 



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BaubleBar Giveaway

August 23, 2013
Colors
So earlier this week I alluded to the fact that this BaubleBar necklace could make an appearance as a fabulous statement necklace giveaway!  Well Today it is!  I won this at the Go Blog Social conference I attended that I shared here with you, and today I want to give you a chance to win and add it to your jewelry collection! 



I think it is pretty, and will make a great addition to someones wardrobe!   I honestly do not change up necklaces very often. I have several that are sentimental and very special to me, but as far as a chunky necklace, it just doesn't lay right on my neck. I honestly would keep this is there wasn't any purple in it. I just can't stand anything purple.   I love a variety of statement necklaces, and currently am looking for this one, but I would never wear this, and that my friends, would be a waste of a great piece of jewelry.  Lucky for you!!






You know the drill, follow the instructions in the rafflecopter form, and good luck! 
a Rafflecopter giveaway



Photos by Lisa, Images courtesy Baublebar

ICU Readers

August 15, 2013
Colors
ICU Eyewear
This is a sponsored post by ICU Eyewear however, all comments, and opinions are mine and only mine!

ICU Eyewear is a leading designer of reading glasses, sunglasses and specialty eyewear.  The company’s brands which include ICU Eyewear, Dr. Dean for ICU Eyewear and Wink by ICU Eyewear have earned a reputation for high quality, innovative design and editorially acclaimed fashion. ICU Eyewear’s eponymous signature line is a collection of on-trend, contemporary, fun and colorful readers and sunglasses, designed with the millions of baby boomers in mind who need a little extra magnification but want to continue to be stylish and fashion forward.


Wink by ICU Eyewear is transforming a cold, utilitarian piece of plastic into a unique and highly-personalized fashion statement. Each pair of Wink readers tells a story, starts a conversation or at the very least turns a few heads. By being true to itself, the brand has also turned some heads in the fashion industry, giving it that touch of Madison Ave credibility a fashion accessory needs. The aptly named Wink gives women a stylish, affordable and playful way to share a little bit (or a lot, depending on the pair) of their colorful personality with the world, while being able to read with ease.

The most fashionable readers ever!  And I am not just saying that!  I have several pair, ok, so I have lots.  Hey, a fashionable gal has to see, and they have to coordinate with my outfit!  These are some of my readers below, and check out the cute cases they come with for your purse!  


I wear a different pair of reader everyday, and change them up with my outfits! 

 Zebra Stripes 
 Black Scroll 

Beachy Pink Stripes 


Dr. Dean Edell brings optical acumen to this stylish-but-not-flashy collection of frames, creating the kind of product that is intelligently and reliably made from every perspective.  Dr. Dean’s are the only reader brand endorsed by an ophthalmologist, Dr. Dean Edell, and are the smartest brand on the market today.  Dr. Dean is an optical accessory, not just a magnifier. Stylish in his smart and classic approach to readers, Dr. Dean’s are for the sophisticated man who still wants to look good.
Dr Dean

Tell ICU Eyewear which is your favorite pair of Dr. Dean or Wink glasses and be entered to win one (1) free pair of the reading glasses you voted for. 

 ICU Eyewear is giving away 1,000 pairs of Dr. Dean and Wink glasses or 40% off one order of readers from the ICU Eyewear. 

So are you ready to win?  
1. Go to the Read In Style Giveaway page to enter your email address and gender.
- Your gender determines if you vote for the Dr. Dean or Wink readers. 

 2. Based on which gender you selected, vote for your favorite pair. 

 3. You will then either be selected instantly as a winner and asked to fill out your shipping and Diopter details OR receive a 40% off coupon for all readers on the ICU Eyewear site.
One entry per email address. Winners will receive their free pair of reading glasses via First Class Mail and will be delivered 4-6 weeks after the giveaway ends.

Claudia Rowe /Easton Wrap

August 02, 2013
arm party


My Three favorite things!!  Pink, Bracelets, and Claudia Rowe Jewelry! I was so excited when Claudia sent me this pink leather braided wrap, and check out the darling charm!! 


I told you I had been working on some fabulous collaborations and you will want to win this beauty!  I posted about Claudia Rowe here, and if you follow me on instagram you know I love my skull bangle from her collection too! The possibilities are endless to add this to your stack, or wear alone.  Whatever your style, I know you will love this leather wrap.  

So here are all the deets!  Enter to win a pink and navy leather wrap with a tassel charm just like mine by following the instructions in the rafflecopter form below.  Super easy, and you know you want to win!     




Good Luck! 


a Rafflecopter giveaway




Samantha Wills

July 19, 2013
Beads





In my quest to find lovely pieces of jewelry, I stumbled upon Samantha Wills and I am so glad I did.  Her styles are elegant, yet edgy, with a sparkle and sometimes a boho feel.  I love her designs and would love to add several of her pieces to my wardrobe.  

An Australian native from the East coast beaches of Port Macquarie, Samantha Wills moved to Sydney in 2004.  That was the year she unveiled her debut collection at Australian Fashion week.  No surprise she received rave reviews.    Handcrafting her pieces for friends and family, Samantha with a keen eye for design is entirely self taught.  That my friends is a true talent!  A lover of travels, many of her designs are named after her favorite place and adventures.  Samantha will rarely leave her New York City home with out her camera as the bustling city is a constant source of inspiration. 

Samantha's down to earth nature is shared with her followers, fans, and friends alike on her social medias as she shares a personal glimpse of her life, and stories honestly and openly.  You really should follow her on instagram!  I love scrolling thru my feed and coming across an exquisite piece of her collection.  

So I gathered my favorites items, and shared them here with you, but there are so many lovely items in her entire collection.  If wish list were real, this would be my order! 

Hayden Reis

June 28, 2013
bags

I am summer ready.  And that means a fully packed, stocked beach bag ready to go at the drop of a hat!  You never know when the mood or the time will allow for a trip to the beach, for the lucky girls that live within a day trip to the beach, or for the midwest girls, a trip to the pool!

Let me introduce you to Hayden Reis.  The most water, sand, sunscreen friendly bags ever!  Made from sailcloth, they are completely water resistent!  Now that doesn't mean you can drop them in the water, there is a zipper, and a hole to clip it in your larger bag, so don't go swimming with it.  But do take it to the pool or beach, and safely store your keys, phone, extra hair ties, or whatever floats your boat!  You will want one of each style for sure. I know I do! 









My wristlet already packed for the next trip to the pool.  



Hayden Reis bags are perfect for a carryall.  Stylish, and functional, these bags can withstand sunscreen leaks, snacks from the kids, sand, and even throw in your wet suit.  There is a bag for all your pool needs!  Made of durable dacron sailcloth, they are durable, lightweight, and comes in a variety of colors.  Each bag is assembled and sewn in the USA!

If your a gym rat, your Hayden Reis is perfect for that as well.  Running errands, and trips to the park for picnics are just a few of the occasions your Hayden Reis bag will come in handy!

I already have my bag tucked in my large bag, and ready for the next trip to the pool!  I want to share with you the same bag I received, the Night Star wristlet!  A beautiful black bag with a hot pink star sewn on the front with a wristlet!  It's really simple to enter.  Follow the instructions in the rafflecopter form and get ready to enjoy your trip to the water!

Good Luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway




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