#OOTD: Crazy About Daisies (Feat. Ann Taylor, Marc Jacobs Beauty + Rocksbox)

Whew! Has anyone else's wardrobe gone from zero to summer real quick this season? Though I have to admit, I have not mourned packing away my heavy sweaters and winter coats in the least, and I am fully ready to embrace the sunshine and warm weather. I am also more than ready to style some sweet summer looks after an incredibly long, cold, and very layered, winter here in the 'Burgh.

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I have to admit, though my favorite season is actually fall due to the perfect climate and all the fun you can have with layers, summer is a close second for me. The reason this is, is because firstly, summer is the season in which my favorite flowers bloom, the colors of the season are my favorites, and the clothing for this season often mirrors both of these characteristics. So, in today's outfit of the day, I'm talking about how I styled my first look of the summer featuring pieces from my sponsor and affiliate, Ann Taylor, along with some of my favorite summer beauty products. Plus, I'm featuring these adorable thrifted shorts that I personally got a little bit crafty with! 

Scents of the Season

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As I mentioned earlier, summertime brings about the blooming of some of my favorite posies, one of those actually being white daisies (my other favorites include tiger lilies, hydrangea, and tulips). I love these flowers not only because they are beautiful to look at, but also because their scents are absolutely amazing. With this being said, I was thrilled to have receive a complimentary gift set of Marc Jacobs "Daisy" featuring a full bottle of this magical scent, a perfume roller, and body lotion. 

This perfume has been a summertime favorite of mine since I was seventeen. And though Marc Jacobs Daisy actually doesn't smell like daisies at all, it is still a light and whimsical scent that is perfect for summer. Daisy, transports the wearer to a place that is optimistic, beautiful, and pure. To me, Daisy, is reminiscent of my youth and gives me a comforting feeling of nostalgia each and every time I wear it.  Not to mention this perfume's scent embodies romance, starting with the scent of wild berries and violets, and ending with jasmine and a sensual sandalwood for a sultry and irresistibly feminine finish.

Summer Blooms

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After applying my favorite summer scent and makeup, I decided to enjoy the beautiful weather by taking a stroll in Ambridge's historical district of Old Economy as well as checking out a handful of the antique shops and historical sites in the area. Much like Marc Jacobs Daisy, Old Economy will always hold a special place in my heart and gives me feelings of nostalgia because I grew up spending time there and actually worked as a "Young Harmonist" tour guide from the time I was in eighth grade through my senior year in high school. The scenery of this place is actually quite beautiful, and in my opinion is a hidden gem of Ambridge. So, since this was a leisurely casual day dedicated to strolling down memory lane, I chose to keep my look simple and sweet.

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Along with wanting a casual look without sacrificing any style, I also wanted to remain comfortable, and as many of my fellow Pittsburghers know, sometimes trying to keep cool in our humid summer weather can be a bummer. However, the pieces that I chose for this casual summer look are perfect for our warm and slightly sticky weather due to the fact I kept my clothes light (in color and weight) as well as wearing lightweight accessories and makeup.

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The top I chose to style for this look is this adorable ruffle-bib blouse from my sponsor and affiliate Ann Taylor. The reason why I was so attracted to this blouse is because I loved the the colors and floral pattern. I also loved the ruffle-bib detailing of the top half of the blouse, which gives this top a sweet and feminine look. This blouse is made of raw silk, meaning that its very lightweight, and though silk isn't the most breathable fabric, it's still a great choice for summer outings, second to linen in my opinion. I also like the cut of this blouse, since it is not form fitting it makes for a perfect top to tuck in for a change of pace in styling, giving this look a retro '70s vibe. 

Love these shorts I made? Though you can't get these exact ones, click here or here to see some similar looks!

Love these shorts I made? Though you can't get these exact ones, click here or here to see some similar looks!

Now, I have to admit, I'm pretty proud of the bottom half of this outfit. If you follow me on Instagram you've probably seen these adorable embroidered shorts pop up in your feed a couple time this past week, and the reason I am am so proud of them is because I actually made them myself! Though I don't go clothes shopping often, I recently decided to hit up my local Goodwill in search of some new jean shorts for summer. While I was on this excursion, I initially found this pair of plain cutoffs that fit me perfectly (which is sometimes challenging to find being 5'7" and a size 00). However, on my way out of the store, I saw another pair of shorts in the kids section, with these adorable daises on them. of course, I couldn't fit in them however, I had been looking for a new project and snagged them anyways, and once I got home, I simply detached the floral pattern from the kids shorts, put my sewing skills to work, and attached them to my new cutoffs!   

Aside from making these adorable shorts myself and them being completely unique, I also love them because they are perfect for summer and are just so incredibly playful, which is exactly the feeling I want to exude in the summertime. 

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To further style this look, I chose to use some new jewelry I received from my longtime sponsor Rocksbox. Both the pieces I chose to style with this outfit are also floral themed, because I wanted to keep the pattern going. The first pieces pictured are some gorgeous daisy chandelier earrings by Perry Street. Though they are chandelier earrings, the great thing about these earrings is they are lightweight despite their size, making them great for all day wear.  

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Much like the chandelier earrings, this gorgeous Kendra Scott cuff is a lot lighter than it looks. This piece has been on my wish-list for quite some time, almost a year to be exact, so needless to say I was stoked to finally style it! Though this piece looks like it would be heavy, it is actually quite lightweight and comfortable. I also love this cuff because it goes with just about everything due to its pretty pattern and its dual silver and gold color.  

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Last but not least, to complete this casual summertime look, I chose to keep it simple with some of my favorite makeup brands. First, I used some Julep Matifying Primer followed by bareMinerals original powder foundation. I chose this opposed to my BarePro foundation because due to the humidity, I wanted to have a very light foundation. To complete my makeup look, I used Julep's Feels Like Velvet in Auburn Shimmer & Mushroom Shimmer, Dior's My Rose blush, and then for my lips, I paired Maybelline's Oh Sugar lipstick with Marc Jacobs Fawn Over Me lip liner for a dewy, natural look.

One Last Look

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Are you and your wardrobe more than ready for the warm and sunny summer weather this season? Let's chat about summertime style in the comments below or you can tweet me about it at @StarkRavingChic! Have an adorable summer outfit you just need to show off? I'd love to see it, so feel free to tag me in your Instagram Story at @StarkRavingChic. Later, babes!

Xx, Bree

P.S. Psssssst! If you love the jewelry I styled in this post as much as I do, you can try Rocksbox for a whole month 100% FREE when you sign up using my promo code "starkravingchicxoxo". Don't know what Rocksbox is or how it works? You can learn more here!

Also, I am now a proud member of rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it! Meaning you can shop straight from my Instagram feed when you click here or here. Don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is all about? Learn more, here!

You can also shop my closet on Dress Like Me as well, which there will be a post about this new tool coming soon. 

#BLOGMAS: Gift Guide 2017

Whew! I don't know about all of you, but this holiday season has approached rather rapidly for me this year. From me being sick with pneumonia, my mum getting a hip replacement, and this semester at school winding down (Only one more exam left after today, yay!) I have most definitely been slacking on my holiday preparations this year, one of which is holiday shopping! So, while I was brainstorming gift ideas for my own Christmas shopping list, I decided so share some of my fool proof gift ideas, just in case some of my readers are late to the gift shopping game too. And to boot, I've managed to find some major steals through my sponsors as well, so not only can you nab some awesome gifts, you won't break the bank by doing so!

For Him

Let's face it: Though I'm sure we all love shopping for the fellows in our lives, sometimes it can be incredibly frustrating. This is due to the fact we are never quite sure what to buy them or in cases like mine, they end up buying something for themselves that we planned on getting them. So, I've compiled these following items that are sure to be a hit even if you're guy has everything he could possibly need.

Watches

Though I'm sure most men already own a watch, in my opinion they are one thing a guys can't have too many of (kind of like how I couldn't possibly ever have too many shoes). The reason being is due to giving their wardrobe versatility. For instance, on a more casual day out, he may want to go with a more modern or laid back watch than the dress watch he wears everyday to the office. 

Items Left to Right: Citzen Eco Drive, Movado Bold, JORD Sawyer Koa & Bronze, Bulova Stainless Steel Automatic, Michael Kors Chronograph

Accessories & Jewelry

Though not every guy is much for jewelry, some of these simple and understated pieces above could be the perfect gift for the man who like to accessorize. But there are also some more classic choices that may be better suited (and practical) for the more classic guy, such as cuff links, scarves, and ties.

Items Left to Right: Tiffany & Co. Paloma's Groove Bead Pendant, Burberry Cuff Links, Lacoste Logo Scarf, Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso's Knot Single Braid Bracelet, Tiffany & Co. Engine Turned Cuff Links, Ralph Lauren Bumble Bee Silk Tie.

Extras & Such

Last but not least, I decided to through in some practical options because one thing for sure is, I love to give useful gifts. So I figured I would throw some of these nifty options out their because I am sure any man would love them. 

Items Left to Right: Master Dynamic Ear Buds, Kiehl Men's Grooming Kit, Fendi Logo Wallet, Chanel Bleu Cologne

For Her

And since I know many of us ladies find it hard to shop for the men in our lives, I can only imagine that many guys have the same problem shopping for the women in their lives! So, if you happen to stumble upon this page (Hey, I don't only post fashion, so maybe you'll find something you like!) here are some great gift ideas for her if you're needing inspiration. 

Makeup & Skincare

Though I personally hardly ever wear makeup on a daily basis (not for lack of not liking too mind you, it mostly boils down to laziness on my part), I know there are many women who do and above are some of my top picks for makeup kits and brushes. There are also some killer skin care routines because who wouldn't want to give the gift of pampering and good skin?

Items Left to Right: Rouge Dior Bijou Lipstick SetYSL Dazzling Lights Palette, Burt's Bees Four Piece Face Essentials, Clarins 24 Piece Advent Calendar, 32 Piece Makeup Brush Set.

Jewelry & Accessories

If the gals in your life are anything like me, that means you can never go wrong with jewelry or warm and snugly accessories. From watches to bracelets, and from scarves and hats, these gift ideas are sure to please this holiday season. 

 Items Left to Right: Plaid Blanket Scarf, Grey Scarf and Pom Pom Beanie Set, Lira Coins Charm Bracelet, Givenchy Rose Gold Choker, Movado Two Tone Watch, Movado Bold in Rose Gold, Animal Pattern Socks.

Extras & Such

Much like for the guys, of course there is always room for practical gifts for us girls too. So, here is a broad selection of some very useful gifts that I'm sure any lady would adore. 

Items Left to Right: Heart and Lock Key Chain, Mermaid Tail Blanket (I have one, and I love it! It's soooo warm!), Workout Phone Case, Geometric Phone Case, Chanel No. 5 Perfume, Calvin Klein Cross Body Bag.

For All

Last but certainly not least, I decided I wanted to cover "gifts for all" in this post. Mainly because though it can be hard to shop for our loved ones, it's even harder to shop for people who we do not know that well. Whether it be for a work Chinese auction or even for an extended family member of your beau in their family grab bag, all of the following gifts are universal and are sure to thrill whoever may receive them!

Home Goods

The best thing about giving the gift of home goods is you really can't go wrong with them! People are always looking for nick-knacks, decor, candles, and anything to set their home apart and make it their own. The other great thing about home goods is many of them can be practical and useful too, making them a major hit.

Items Left to Right: Tea Kettle, Nest Fragrances, Crossley Record Player, Bar Set, Yankee Candles.

Gift Baskets

Gift basket, in my opinion, are best for holiday work parties that require a grab bag or Chinese auction. The reason being is you can find a gift basket filled with just about thing! From spa treatments, to chocolates, to wines, and even meats and cheeses, there is definitely something for everybody when it comes to gift baskets.

 Items Left to Right: Spa Gift Basket, Ghirardelli Gift Basket, Tea and Coffee Gift Basket, Wine Gift Basket, Hickory Farms Perfect Picnic Basket.

Subscription Gifts 

And lastly, if you are feeling extra generous, you can give the gift of a year of a subscription service! These are great because many of them are geared towards practicality, healthy living, and some are even for our furry friends!

 Items Left to Right: Amazon Prime, Graze, Bark Box, Bourbon of the Month

What are some of the gifts you will be giving this holiday season? I'd love to hear about how you will be spreading cheer, so let's chat about it in the comments below or you can tweet me at @StarkRavingChic! Later, babes, and happy shopping!

Xx, Bree

P.S. Psssssst! Love the flat lay I posted earlier on Instagram today but not sure where to get the goods? Well, no fear! I am now a proud member of rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it! Meaning you can shop straight from my Instagram feed when you click here or here. Don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is all about? Learn more, here!

Harvey Prince Organics: Fragrances

From a young age I was always very particular about fragrances, perhaps this is because my aunt and grandmother collected them when I was a child and each of them always wore amazing scents (for instance my grandmother was always a fan of Dior's J'adore). Due to this, I now have a great appreciation for quite the variety of fragrances, however I have also learned that scents are extremely personal and can even help sooth the person who is wearing them during stressful situations. (Aromatherapy, anyone?) So in my own perfume cabinet, I have many fragrances that I find soothing, each of which I generally reserve for particular situations (e.g. weekends, date night, work, photo shoots, and runway shows). And recently, I had the pleasure of working with Harvey Prince Organics, who sent me all kinds of goodies including a bunch of their awesome beauty products, and three full sized bottles of their most popular perfumes! Which all three I have come to love and wear quite often.  

Harvey Prince Organics

For those of you that may have missed my post last week about Harvey Prince Organics, you can read it in full here after this article, but let me give you the highlights about this company first before diving into the review:

  • Harvey Prince was founded by two brother whom were determined to make the perfect fragrance for their mother as a Mother's Day gift. 
  • The name of the company is the combination of the boy's alta maters, Harvard and Princeton.
  • The brand launched in 2007, but rebranded in 2015, changing their name to "Harvey Prince Organics" and is now committed to making and supplying the best cruelty free beauty and fragrance products on the market. Yep! That means none of our furry friends are harmed in the production of Harvey Prince's products!

Perumista

The first fragrance that I tried by Harvey Prince Organics was their PerfumistaThe reason I decided to try it first was due to the fact it was the most potent scent of the three. This fragrance has hints of jasmine, lily of the valley, sandalwood, and amber, giving it a very daring feel. I would say that this is the type of perfume I would wear for a night out with my girl friends or to a party because this perfume will undoubtedly make you stand out (in a good way of course!)  and make you the star of the show due to its bold scent.

Hello

This next perfume, Hello, is a light, happy, and subtle scent. This perfume is absolutely perfect for everyday wear to the office, a business meeting, or to class. This fragrance consists of light hints of lemon, white grapefruit, mandarin, forsythia, and vanilla making it incredibly welcoming and greets people with a smile. I loved this perfume because it is incredibly welcoming and in my opinion is quite the conversation starter! (Perhaps it just lets the world around you know that you are as sweet as your perfume!)

Sincerely

The last fragrance that I got to try, Sincerely, is honestly my favorite of the three (though it was a close second to "Hello"). The reason this is, is because I love its exotic scent. Much like how this perfume is described on Harvey Prince's site, this scent let's the people around you know that you are invigorating, mystical, and often unpredictable. With notes of clove bud, sandalwood, and French bergamot, this scent is perfect for the boho babe who has soul consumed with wanderlust and a deep love of nature.

Final Thoughts

Much like Harvey Prince Organics beauty products, I also loved their perfumes and will be purchasing these fragrances again after I run out. I would recommend any of Harvey Prince Organics fragrances to my friends, family, and of course to you, my readers! So remember if you would like to try any of these three scents, or a different fragrance from Harvey Prince's vast selection, you can use my promo code "starkravingchic40" to get 40% off your order.

What are some of your favorite fragrances and some scents that you connect with? Let's chat about it in the comments below or you can tweet me at @StarkRavingChic!  Later, babes!

Xx, Bree