Tag: Shoes

OOTD: Lady In Red…

by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment on OOTD: Lady In Red…

Good Morning and Happy Monday, everyone!

What a weekend it’s been. One of my longtime and dearest friends tied the knot on Saturday night in one of the most fun ceremonies and celebrations I’ve ever had the fortune of attending (and I’ll have photos from the night up a little later on this week!)– and yesterday, a day that was supposed to be for rest and some self-care- was instead spent at an Urgent Care veterinarian’s office after Oliver sustained a back injury and needed to be checked out.

He’s thankfully okay (it was a strain/sprain and he’s on some anti-inflammation medication to alleviate his symptoms while he recovers)– but my nerves were shot. Once I’d had a chance to come home, shower, and unwind- it took me no time at all to succumb to exhaustion and fall asleep.

And now here I am, at work for another week. Sigh.

Before I launch into my e-mails, voicemails, and caseload for the week- I wanted to share the beautiful, Autumn-appropriate dress I wore to the aforementioned wedding this past weekend, first!

Red is a bold color I never shied away from- my hair was a fire engine red hue for a good several years, after all- and I knew with how bold and exciting my circle of friends are that donning a red dress in a church wouldn’t be frowned upon by them.

I opted for this fitted, quarter-length sleeved red dress that stopped just above my knee and was accentuated with a thin red tie around the waist to break up the simplicity of the fabric. I was covered- perfect for a formal occasion- but was still comfortable when it came time to throw back a couple of drinks and some wedding cake come the time of the reception!

And while more than one female guest ended up taking their heels off by the end of the night- I was able to stay standing in these black velvet, buckled ankle booties with a chunky heel to give me some height and some support. I haven’t really had a chance to wear these out because of all the rain we’ve been having- so I’m glad it was nice out by the time it came ready to head on over to the church!

I turned my convertible faux-snakeskin bag into a clutch for the evening, and the gray and black really played well against the dress, the boots, and my newly acquired dark gray manicure- which really pulled the whole look together for me.

I’m looking forward to getting some more wear out of this dress now that the holidays will be approaching soon- since the red will be pretty festive and the simple style of the dress will be easy enough to doll up or down depending on the event. This one is a keeper, for sure!

But I’ve got a lot of work to do- and this week is going to be another busy one I need to stay on top of- so I’m heading out to get things done before I can even stop and think about getting some much-needed rest and relaxation!

Here’s wishing you all a wonderful start to your week and a terrific few days ahead before we reach another weekend!

xx

– Ashley –

Favorites: October 2018!

by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment on Favorites: October 2018!

Good Morning and Happy Monday, everyone! Especially my fellow Red Sox fans! What a series!

And so begins another work week- the repetition thankfully being broken up by Halloween and kicking off November in style. While I’ll divulge the details of my wild and fun weekend a little later on this week (as well as re-cap the month of October overall in my scheduled “In a Nutshell” post)– I thought I’d take time in-between catching up on work at my office and recovering from one of twelve flus/nanoviruses going around New England like wildfire as of late and share some of my favorite products, items, odds & ends from this past month.

Despite my current sniffle and scratchy throat- which is thankfully improving after some much-needed rest and relaxation last night (and some NyQuil)– October was a month I tried to practice more self care. That included drinking more water, getting more fresh air, and updating my skincare products/regimen to make sure I was staying hydrated from head to toe. Many of this month’s favorites are items that reflect those efforts!

As always, I’ll start with the things I was able to photograph before I jump into some of the miscellaneous things that were a little trickier to capture with my camera!

When Bath & Body Works had their buy three- get three free sale this past month, I took the opportunity to stock up on some of their Fall-inspired skincare line- including pumpkin/apple/cinnamon-scented scrubs, lotions, creams and perfumes.

I’ve been using these products daily and my skin has never looked or felt better- which is definitely appreciated since it’s been chilly and rainy these past few weeks and I’ve been able to avoid letting my skin get dull or dry as we gradually transition from the Fall to the Winter.

Also? Smelling like a pumpkin pie? I’m loving that!

Bath & Body Works have recently started promoting their holiday line- and the buy three-get three free sale is presently up and running if anyone is looking for some good deals or gifts for family/friends!

If I’m going to indulge my skin in some serious care- then I wanted to make sure my hair was being well taken care of, as well. Lately I’ve been loving all sorts of products from Kevin Murphy– but this detoxifying shampoo might be one of my favorites. I use this once a week, massaging it into my scalp and down to the ends of my curls and letting it sit for a minute or two before I rinse- and my hair feels squeaky clean without dryness or frizz. The non-lathering formula melts away product and chemical buildup at the root, while softening and conditioning the ends.

Of course, not every day can be a good hair day- and while I’ve been seeing a lot of beanies and knitwear around lately- I’ve opted for this navy blue beret, embellished with tiny gold stars, instead. It easily matches most of the pieces in my Fall wardrobe- especially my flannel shirts and sweaters- and it’s just so cute!

Finally, I love boot season- and with a couple of Fall weddings coming up over the next few weeks- I’ve wanted to stay seasonal and comfortable on and off the dance floor. I’ve been loving these tan, suede booties with a wooden block heel from Primark lately- which are also super easy to incorporate into both my casual AND dressy wardrobe- and are insanely comfy, too!

And that’s it for the photogenic products/items- but I’ve got a couple of other things that made this month’s list, too!

– MUSIC/MOVIES/TELEVISION –

‘Halloween’ – Of course the holiday itself is one of my favorites, but I’m talking about the sequel to the horror-movie of the same name. As a kid, the only horror movie “baddie” who ever truly scared me was Michael Myers. He didn’t have corny one-liners like Freddy Krueger and he didn’t get blasted off into space ala Jason Voorhees.

No, Michael has always stayed the same- silent and ruthless- even through some questionable sequels/re-makes. But, thankfully, the most recent installment in the film franchise brings things back around full circle in a truly terrifying way. It’s just so damned good!

– GAMES/TECH/APPS –

‘Red Dead Redemption 2’ – Even though this game has only been out for a couple of days, my friends and I have been having a free-for-all of a good time playing it. I don’t think we’ve accomplished any of the missions successfully since we keep getting sidetracked- but the graphics and the gameplay thus far are pretty incredible and it was well worth the wait for it to finally be released!

– MISCELLANEOUS –

Idle Hands Brewing: Undead Red – I first tasted this bright red sour this past Saturday at Indie617’s ‘Boos & Brews’ party at Idle Hands‘ place in Malden- and I was hooked. Infused with fruit and with a cherry aftertaste, this beer was delicious- paired wonderfully with chocolate- and wasn’t too potent for a lightweight like me. I’m a big fan, and will more than likely dropping by this weekend at some point to have a bit more.

And I think that does it for my October favorites! I’ll have a recap of this past month up and running on Wednesday morning before I pass out candy to the Trick-Or-Treaters and get ready to jump-start November!

Until then, though- I’ve got to get some work done. Here’s wishing you all a wonderful start to your week!

xx

– Ashley –

OOTD: Feeling Crabby…

by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment on OOTD: Feeling Crabby…

Good Morning and Happy Monday, everyone!

In exactly one week I’ll be soaring above the clouds on my way to fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada to embark on a much needed vacation and road trip through the desert with my West Coast Wife- but before I do that- I’ve got to get through this work week, first!

This past weekend, although cloudy and a bit chilly- marked the 29th annual Seafood Festival at Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. It’s a bit of a tradition for myself, my mother, and my cousin to attend at least one of the three days of the festival together every year- and after scoring this crab sweater from ModCloth on sale near the end of last month- I knew well in advance I’d have an appropriate (and fun!) outfit to wear for the occasion!

This sweater, knitted and fitted- features white stripes along both sleeves and a bright red crab front and center. It kept me warm, sure- especially when we stopped along the shore to watch the waves for a while- but it was also a huge hit with other attendees and vendors who kept asking me where I got it.

I’m a big fan of Nautical style, which is pretty prominent along the coastal towns in New England. Anything with anchors, lighthouses and seashells automatically catches my eye- but I’ve been really feeling anything with sea life print, too. Crabs, octopus, seahorses, etc. When done subtlety and simple- like this sweater- they can look so cute!

I paired this new wardrobe favorite with a simple pair of white lace shorts and my white and silver glitter slide sandals so I could stay comfortable while I was scarfing lobster and scallops and looking through the racks of the seaside shops for great deals and steals. I found some fantastic stuff- which I’ll share a little later on this week.

And now, like every Monday morning- I’ve got to throw back some coffee and get to work. There’s even more to do this week since I’ll be out of the office by this time next Monday- so I’ve got to stay one step ahead!

Later on this week I’ve got a haul post where I’ll share some of my finds from the Seafood Festival- and yes, plenty of photos of the food itself. I’m also putting the finishing touches on my Autumn Playlist- which seems appropriate more than ever since the forecast calls for some rain and brisk temperatures over the next few days. Fall is officially here- and I am ready for it!

Here’s hoping you all have a great start to your week and that we make it through the next few days unscathed! One step closer to Friday!

xx

– Ashley –

OOTD: She’s a Rainbow…

by Ashley DeLarge1 Comment on OOTD: She’s a Rainbow…

Good Morning and Happy “Hump Day” everyone!

Two OOTD (Outfit of The Day) posts in one week? As Summer winds down and I try to get as much wear out of my hotter-months-wardrobe as possible, I have more and more pieces and ensembles to share before they go back into storage and I have to break out my sweaters and boots for the Fall again!

It goes without saying that I wear a *lot* of brighter colors in the Spring/Summer- and when I stumbled on this bright purple mini-skirt in my closet last week, I knew I had to find a top bold enough to pair with it. This multi-colored, striped, billowy blouse I picked up a couple of years ago (and typically wear with jeans and flip flops when I’m out running errands) was perfect.

Not only do the shades remind me of the tropics with the aquas, pinks and green/yellows- but I can wear my go-to flowered sandals for the Summer and look seasonal while staying comfortable at the office or out with my friends after a long day at work.

As far as makeup goes, I always believe in keeping it simple for the Summer- and turned to a tangerine-toned lipstick from Maybelline I had picked up back in May in preparation for the season. My nails are presently a really bright sea green color, too- so I didn’t think any jewelry was necessary. As much fun as I have in this outfit- I didn’t want to over-do it.

I’m going to miss this top and the skirt so much when I have to put them away again for the Fall/Winter.

But I digress. On Friday, before I head out for the weekend- I’m taking a look back on the past few days (including beach trips, rainy day hangouts and some late night cookie cravings)– and preparing to share a couple more recipes and Summer spots around New England while it’s still hot enough outside to enjoy them!

Enjoy your Wednesday, everyone! We’re almost to the end of the week!

xx

– Ashley –

OOTD: Polka Dot Pin-Up

by Ashley DeLargeLeave a Comment on OOTD: Polka Dot Pin-Up

Good Morning and Happy Monday, everyone!

The weekend never feels quite long enough for me. Especially when it rains most of the time. Although the cooler temperatures were a nice break from the stifling heat and humidity we’ve been dealing with as of late- having to spend the majority of my days off indoors or beneath an umbrella can feel like a waste during the Summertime!

Yesterday afternoon, the sun came out just long enough between torrential downpours for me to enjoy a quick brunch with friends. Having spent the majority of Saturday in yoga pants and a hoodie to run errands- I wanted to dress up a bit- and found this navy blue, polka-dotted pin-up number from Betsey Johnson I had been gifted after a fashion show a few years ago in the back of my closet.

The dress, which still fits like a glove (and I’m so thrilled that it does!) has a fitted bodice, with a zipper up the side- and flowing skirt that accentuates my figure and gives me a fun, vintage pin-up look.

Although my sense of style continues to evolve and change as time goes by and I get older, dresses like these- which draw inspiration from some of my all-time favorite fashion icons like Bettie Page and Tura Satana- will always be welcome additions to my wardrobe and worn as often as possible.

And, with any pin-up-style dress, they can be easily accessorized with simple pearl earrings, or a pearl necklace- and comfortable pump shoes. You can’t see my pearl earrings underneath my hair, but my navy pumps (re-used from a previous Peggy Carter cosplay for Comic-Con!) matched the dress perfectly.

Finally, with a few coats of mascara and a swipe of my red/orange cream lipstick I’ve been wearing all Summer- I was ready to go.

I’m looking forward to wearing this dress a little later on this week for post-office dinner and cocktails since it’s pretty versatile! It’s work-appropriate (with my little white cardigan fastened over it to keep me covered and protected when the office AC is on full blast) and will look so cute when I’m out on the town at night!

But with yet another Monday underway, I’ve got to get started on catching up on my e-mails, voicemails, and cases- as is my usual Monday morning routine. I’m already anxious for Friday to get here and I’m hoping for a sunnier week ahead!

Here’s wishing you all a wonderful start to your week. I hope this Monday is easy on you!

xx

– Ashley –