Seasonal Rotation Is A Must

Here's a good seasonal reminder for you! As you're going through your closet and pulling your winter things to the front (at least that's what I do) do a thorough cleaning out. If you let a winter season go by without wearing one or two certain sweaters or if there's a jacket stuffed in the back of your closet that hasn't seen the outdoors in two years, start yourself a donation bag. I realized that I had several sweaters that I hadn't worn in years because they're always at the back of my closet. When it came time for seasonal rotation, I'd just leave them in the back because I didn't foresee myself wearing them right them. If you're not wearing it, rid yourself of it. Just think, for every item that you clean out of your closet, you've just left yourself room to buy yourself two new things. Don't question the math...it's my own mathematical system!

Making the move

Did you ever stop to think that maybe your dating game isn't all that its cracked up to be because of no fault of your own? Yeah, believe it or not, the perfect guy may be out there giving you the eye but he's lacking the confidence and the game to let you know. Contrary to popular belief, guys often have a difficult time with self esteem and confidence. They're no different than us girls. Men just don't like to admit that they might need a little bit of help when it boils down to how to meet women. It's a macho thing, I'm sure. Understandably so. I mean, I'm sure it was a male who was the original pick up artist
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Here is a little tidbit of info for you. Men like it when we make things easier for them. Yes, I know...playing hard to get is part of the game for us girls. True. However, there is a time and place for that. When a man is obviously lacking a bit of self confidence, that is not the time to play hard to get. You're trying to get the guy, not scare him away from the dating scene for life. In my opinion, nice guys deserve a shot. Cut them some slack and give them a break. Make the first move. If you think there is some mutual interest, why don't you buy them a drink? Why must the man always make the first move? You've got nothing to lose except your pride. And trust me, in the dating scene, pride must take a back seat at times. You can't be too proud to step up to the plate and let a guy know you're interested.

Dating doesn't have to be a drudgery. Trust me, it's not going to get any easier as you get older. I speak from experience on that one. If I've learned anything over the years, it's to go with my instinct. If I feel like I'm getting the eye from a hottie, then I'm going to give him the eye back. I'm going to flirt a little bit. Let him know that I see that eye and I'm raising him on the deal. Guys certainly don't want to have to do all of the work but most will not shy away from a challenge.

So the next time you're out at the club and the DJ starts spinning your favorite tune, sashay right over to that one that's been giving you the look all evening long, grab him by the hand and drag him out to the dance floor. Get your groove on. Who knows, you might just gain a lot more than a dance!

Tip O' the Day!

Just as Spring brings many rituals for people, Fall has its own rituals for me. One of the things I must do every Fall season is to get a new hairstyle. I feel it necessary to enter into the holiday season looking my best and getting all of that dead cut out of my hair. We all put our hair through torture during the summer months. What better time to give yourself a mini-makeover than at the start of a new season. Time to cut out those dead ends and give that chlorine damaged hair a new coiffure. Just a simple trim may be all it takes to put new life back into your hair. Don't forget to switch up your shampoos and conditioners every few months. It keeps your hair from looking dull and lifeless! Just a tip!

Be Wise, Be Healthy

I'm a firm believer in trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I may not be a size 6, but I still insist upon eating intelligently. I'm very conscious of what I consume and I do my best to be consistent in my nutritional habits.

It's important that if you're just starting out with new and healthier changes in your diet, that you keep a food diary. You need to be able to track your eating style. Do you tend to eat more at night versus the morning? Are you a habitual snacker? Do you consume a great deal more sugar than necessary? Keeping a journal of all of your food intake in the beginning is a great tool to getting some insight into how and why you eat what you eat. It goes beyond counting calories. You've got to maintain a healthy caloric intake as well as monitoring your carbs, fat grams and sugar intake. If you're unsure of how to keep track of these things, then you're best bet will be to find a calorie counter to help you out in the beginning. After a while, you'll be able to judge things with a sensible view.

Remember...it's not dieting that we all need. It's a lifestyle change. Making these healthy changes in your diet needs to be something that you take with you for the rest of your life. Being healthy is the only way to be!

Divine Leather

Cooler weather is almost here. Finally! I love nothing more than being able to put on a very trendy and stylish jacket when I go out. I truly believe that outerwear is just as important as the rest of your wardrobe. I love leather coats and jackets. Sure, they take a bit more care than just a windbreaker or a denim jacket but that's okay. Fashion doesn't come without some effort. Buying yourself a good leather jacket or coat is an investment. If you take care of it, it will last you forever. Truth be told, leather jackets never really go out of style. New styles are added each year but if you really examine them, they're just repeats of the same classic styles that have always been around. If you add nothing else to your winter wardrobe, I strongly suggest you consider one really beautiful, chic leather jacket. You simply cannot go wrong!!

Just a reminder...

In case you let it slip your mind...

Now is the time to check for great sales on swimsuits both online and in your local department and specialty boutiques. Most retailers are trying to clear out their 2007 line to make plenty of room for when that 2008 line breaks out. Normally, this is the only way I purchase a swimsuit.

A few years ago, I managed to snag a swimsuit for $40. It was originally priced at nearly $120. I saved nearly 70%. With savings like that, I was able to purchase a matching sarong to go with it. Deals are always out there to be had. You just need to keep your eyes open and your shopping sensors tuned in to the clearance sales.

Could you please pass the dish of Autumn?

I can't wait for fall to break out in full force. Yes, I know that it's October and that constitutes fall however here in Florida, fall doesn't hit us until around December. Sometimes January. I'm ready to break out my jean jackets and my cozy sweaters. I'm ready to start wearing jeans again and not capris every day. I'm ready for something besides sandals and flip flops. It's almost worth moving up north again so I can go back to having a wardrobe geared towards each of the four seasons. I'll find any reason necessary to shop!

Style and Trends

Wouldn't it be nice if you could receive the exact same service and treatment when you shop an online boutique as you do when you visit a chic boutique in person? You can actually. At tobi.com you can speak to an online stylist who will assist you with your purchases. Pretty innovative wouldn't you say?

Whether you're searching for that new and trendy diesel jacket or those sexy paige jeans, tobi.com has what it is you're looking for. They prove that shopping online doesn't have to be, and isn't, cold and impersonal.

Of course, you know that I head straight to the handbag section of their site. I had a bit of price shock at first but I did manage to find some really stylish bags that wouldn't force me to get a bank loan. In general, tobi.com has just about anything you could possible want from a high end boutique. If its boots or the incredible vince sweaters, tobi.com should be your online boutique of choice. And don't forget...an online stylist to give you that personal attention that you deserve. What could be better than that? Oh wait...I know...how about some sale prices with up to 80% off the regular price? Yeah, now you're listening huh? Be sure to check out all of the sections at tobi.com because you never know what you're going to find.

Trends on the rise

I recently returned from having spent a few weeks in Europe, specifically the Netherlands. While there, I noticed something that I hadn't noticed in all of my previous time spent there. Plus Sized fashions are on the rise! I was ecstatic to see this new trend. There were more stores dedicated strictly to plus size clothing. I know that Europe basically sets the mark where fashion is concerned, however I feel they've been lacking when it came to having beautiful clothes for the voluptuous woman. Apparently this is changing and rightfully so.

I did refrain from purchasing any clothes while over there. Unfortunately I did not refrain from spending copious amounts of money on handbags and shoes. My next visit will be dedicated to clothing. Just remember, if you do ever find yourself in Europe and decide to add to your wardrobe, the sizing charts are quite different. Don't be alarmed to find yourself trying on a size 52 blouse or slipping on a pair of size 40 boots for size. Print off a size comparison chart before you go and it will make the process much easier!

It's a Must Have

I have to admit, I'm pretty snobby when it comes to my health and beauty products. I like to have the best. However, I won't resist the urge to try something if I think it's going to be a good asset to my regime. I have to say, I am now completely addicted to Tree Hut's Brazilian Nut Shaving Cream. This stuff is incredible. It's less than $5 and a tube of it lasts me for quite a while actually. It doesn't take much to get the job done. When I finish shaving my legs, they actually feel as though I've gone and gotten them waxed. That's how close of a shave you get with this shaving cream. In addition, the moisturizers in it are great for my skin. So far, I've only been able to find it at Wal-Mart. I haven't checked out Target for it yet. They have a complete line to go along with the shaving cream and I have the entire line. I absolutely adore everything that they make in this line. The smell, the feel, the end result....everything. If you're looking for something great for your skin at a bargain price, then check out the Tree Hut line from Naterra. I guarantee you that you won't be disappointed!

Free Jewelry??

I have found a website that is truly addicting. I will apologize now for giving you the url because once you look at it, you'll be hooked just like me.

Silver Jewelry Club is one of those sites that seems too good to be true. They have 4 featured pieces of jewelry on their front page. Each item is up for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, that's it. Something new pops up. You can get the item for free. You're only required to pay $5.99 shipping and handling if in the U.S. and Canada or $8.99 if otherwise international. I ordered my first ring with a little hesitation. I mean c'mon...$5.99 for a sterling silver ring with a beautiful mother of pearl setting? Well its beautiful. I've since ordered 2 more rings and 3 pendants as well as a sterling silver chain. We won't discuss how much my mother has ordered, or my sister or my friends. I encourage you to go have a look. It's an inexpensive way to build up your jewelry collection if you wear silver jewelry.

A new trend or just a re-invention of an old one

After having just spent two weeks over in Europe, it became quite clear to me what the obvious fashion statement of choice is right now. Boots! Boots were EVERYWHERE. Toddlers were wearing boots. Teenagers were wearing boots. Every woman had herself a pair of very stylish boots. They were worn with skirts, capri jeans, dress pants and crop pants. They were worn by thin and voluptuous women alike.

Every shoe store I entered was focused on the sale of boots. It was difficult not to find one's self standing in sheer lust over the beautiful leather creations. I tried them on. I tried many of them on. I was in love. I contemplated buying myself a few pair to bring back home but to be honest, I just wasn't sure that my fashion statement would be taken seriously here in Florida. I particularly loved the look of a beautiful pair of brown leather boots paired with cropped jeans. It just proves that if you buy one good versatile pair of shoes, you can truly wear them with just about anything, hence making the amount of money you spend on them well worth every cent.

I'm thinking I will just start my own fashion trend here in Florida and get myself a beautiful pair of boots. Fashion is as fashion does!

Comfort without the sacrifice of style

I, like many women, rely on versatility when it comes to fashion. I need to be able to get the most wear for my buck. I often buy things that I can mix and match. It's much more practical to be able to many different looks from a few key pieces of clothing. Let's face it...in the real world, we aren't all able to have three and four separate wardrobes to accommodate every scenario in our lives.

When it comes to versatility in my wardrobe, I find it necessary to find clothing that I can be comfortable in while at home, yet feel confident enough in to wear out in public while running errands around town. I'm not one to be changing clothes three and four times a day and there probably aren't many women who are. I'm beginning to see an increase in womens loungewear that is being designed with this idea in mind. How great is it to be able to lounge around the house in comfort and yet know that at any given minute, you can hop into your car and head out for an unexpected errand. Erin Braxton has done just that. Here is a line of women's loungewear which focuses on the fashion and comfort needs of the stylish woman. Erin Braxton's line of women's loungewear is manufactured here in the United States. There is no middle man to encounter here with your purchase therefore enabling Erin Braxton to bring you the highest quality without the obscene increase in prices. Hopefully more companies will recognize this need and start branching out into clothing lines which will appeal to today's busy woman and yet embrace her need for comfort as well as style and fashion!

Fall Essentials

For those of you up north, Fall is upon you. For those of us down here in the south, its still sweltering. However, its never too early to start thinking about your fall wardrobe and making sure you have the basic essentials to get you through. One of the key items of clothing that I suggest anyone have for their fall wardrobe is a classic denim jacket. A denim jacket is very versatile and can take your outfit in many different directions. Whether you pair it up with a long skirt or a pair of black slacks or jeans, it's certain to make a bold statement about your fashion choices. This particular jacket is from the Old Navy Plus line. It's tapered in at the waist so its going to accentuate your curves and minimize the size of your waist. When you're a plus sized woman, I don't suggest that you get the longer denim jackets that cover up your posterior. Unless they're a tapered fit, they're more prone to giving you the appearance of looking bigger than you actually are. A short waisted jacket is going to be more flattering to your figure...and you're leaving the booty available for viewing. As I always say, if you've got the assets, flaunt 'em!

Fashion at a high price

I love purses just about as much as I love my family. The perfect purse is as important as finding the perfect man...almost. However, I have limits. For example, as much as I love this purseI simply cannot see myself ever spending $14,000 on a handbag. No, you read that correctly. $14,000! I don't know about you, but I can buy quite a few designer handbags for that amount of money. I can also throw in a pair or two of designer shoes as well.

I'm not cheap, by any means, but I do believe in a certain amount of frugality where fashion is concerned. If you've got $14,000 to just toss away on a purse, perhaps you could just spend $4,000 on a handbag and maybe donate the remaining $10,000 to a very worthwhile charity?? Just a thought.

Changes

First of all, apologies for the gap in posting. Moving one's household and worldly possessions to a new home takes up a lot of time, blood, sweat and tears. Need I say that I detest moving? Way too much manual labor involved for this diva!

Since my last post, my love life has taken a turn for the toilet. Yep, that's right. I got dumped. But you know...its okay. I'm actually fine with this. I actually should have ended this relationship long ago but I made the grave mistake of dragging it out. Why did I do this you ask? Because I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to find anyone else. I was settling. It was only after the break-up that I realized how much stress and tension was released from me. I had been staying in a relationship that had died long ago and in doing so, I was slowly killing off very valuable parts of myself and who I am.

Don't make this mistake. Learn the value of yourself and all that you are worth. Do not let any man (or woman for that matter) validate you as a person. You need to be your own validation in life. I spent four years seeking validation from a man who I knew I wasn't meant to be with. Trust me when I say that looks aren't everything when it comes to a relationship. You can be with a complete god or goddess but if the love is missing...if the passion is gone...if the chemistry has dissipated, then heed my advice and move on. You will truly be surprised at the weight that is lifted from your shoulders.

Now comes the fun part in being a single woman. I actually have the freedom to start looking all over again. At first I saw this as a task. I saw it as drudgery and something I wanted to avoid at all cost. But then I re-evaluated the situation. I pulled myself up by the boot straps and had a good conversation with my inner-diva. I'm still very much a young woman. I am just now in my prime at almost 37 years of age. I get the pleasure of experiencing meeting new people. New men. New challenges. I'm excited to be single again. Mind you, I hope that it doesn't last for a long period of time as I do hope to meet an incredible man some day but for now, I'm certainly going to bask in the thrill of being a woman on the prowl.

I do promise to be more regular with posting now that my life is getting back in order. I will get back on task and posts will be coming at regular intervals. In the meantime, continue to love the woman that you are, embrace your inner diva and go buy yourself a new pair of shoes!! Shoes always make me smile!

Don't Forget

Did you tell yourself you were beautiful today? Did you look in the mirror and see a sexy and gorgeous diva staring back at you? Well if you haven't, you better. It's a necessary task for every single day for the rest of your life! Go do it! Now! Why are you still here reading? Go! Thank you!

Know Your Jeans

How often to you go and try on one pair of jeans after another all to go home empty handed, frustrated and craving some Ben and Jerry's? Ok, maybe the Ben and Jerry's is just me. Did you know that if you go to Zafu.com and answer a few questions about your body type, they'll make the suggestion of exactly what kind of jeans you should be purchasing and wearing. It's really rather nifty and I highly suggest you go give it a whirl!

Just Say No

Alright my sisters of grand proportions...here is your fashion no-no for today. Please, for the love all that is sacred and holy, stop wearing your shirts tucked in. Unless you enjoy that bulging of the rolls look, its just not attractive. Ok, even if you enjoy that look, its still not attractive. They now make so many tops and blouses that are made to cover up that which we need to conceal just a wee bit. My biggest problem area is my stomach. No way am I going to wear a shirt and shove it down my jeans and further enhance my imperfections. If you happen to have a smaller waist then play that up by wearing a blouse that gathers in slightly at the waist. Just be careful. If you're a woman with a larger chest, you're going to run into the problem of gapping if its a button down blouse. When I'm wearing a shirt that tapers in at the waist, I try to stick with something buttonless. My ta ta's have a mind of their own and don't need further encouragement to pop out at the least opportune moment.

So, remember what we've learned here today. Conceal what is meant to be concealed and play up what is meant to be revealed. Stop tucking your shirt in. Just don't do it. Not to mention, it gives you that not so lovely roll right across your posterior. This can never be a good thing. Never. In closing, if you simply must tuck a shirt in due to clothing restrictions or rules for work, then just make sure that you're wearing pants that are properly fitting and if need be, get yourself a control top panty. They can be your best friend. Trust me!

Really??

I have a hard time believing that a cream is going to help me obtain that which is known as "slim". Let's be real here. This is the description they give their product.

“A new, advanced technology adipose antagonist (in layman’s terms that’s fat fighter) that features QuSome encapsulated caffeine molecules for quick and targeted delivery of the skin-slimming stuff of choice of supermodels, spokespeople, and other celebs.”

It’s $29 for 6 oz. Personally, I can think of a lot better things to do with $29 then rubbing cream on my thighs with the anticipation of them shrinking. Can you say purses? Shoes? $29 would also buy me a few tidbits at Bath and Body Works...my all-time favorite store. Yeah, I'll pass on the fat cream and just take my chances on the good old fashioned exercise regimen!

No, No, No

Here is a fashion faux paux tip for you. As I've stated before, there are certain things that you should refrain from wearing. I don't care that its in your size and I don't care that you love it. Halter tops, for instance. Stop it. Big girls should NOT wear halter tops unless you've just got some incredibly toned arms, great shoulders and something to support the girls. If you can't answer yes to all of the above, then

DO NOT DO IT!

Believe me, I'm all about the equality of women when it comes to fashions. I think that woman of size get short changed a lot of times in apparel. But, no matter how equal you want to be, there are just some things that you can't wear that the skinny girl does wear. Get over it. Find what works and work your find.