#TBT: "THE LOOKS OF LOVE" FLASHBACK

If you missed any of the looks featured in last week's week-long "The Looks of Love" series, here is a video snapshot pulled from my Youtube channel. FINE PRINT: Although I went with a Valentine's Day theme, these looks are not specific to just Valentine's Day and can be worn year round for sure. 

The most popular and the look that generated the most buzz, was Look 2, the Baroque print jacket and skirt set from the Nicki Minaj collection for Kmart. Click here for the full scoop. This collection surprised me the most. I may do a YouTube video that goes into more detail. One of my resolutions for 2014 is to build more video content. I can't wait to showcase what's hot for spring.

What was your fave look of the series? 

Click here for Look 1

Click here for Look 3

Click here for Look 4

Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

"THE LOOK OF LOVE" LOOK #4, KEEP IT SIMPLE ...

Happy Valentine's Day! So a lot of us wherever we may be, have been hammered by Mother Nature this season. I'm surely Florida bound in my older years. But as a result you might be thinking of a more practical V Day date night look. Thus the base of this look which consists of black Nicki Minaj Solid Leggings from the Kmart collection. I particularly like these leggings because they come in a variety of colors but they are solid and not sheer so nothing is showing that you don't want to be shown. You don't have to feel pressured to wear a long top as a cover-up. And they have elastic panel insets on each side which provides extra give for them hips. The top is just a black sheer v-neck with 3/4 length sleeves previously purchased from Lulu*s. The shoes are barely visible so I won't even bother to mention. I most wanted to showcase what you can do to otherwise dress up a mundane look. So I dug into my closet for a few extras. You can do the same.

I first paired with a previously purchased blazer with a bit of bling on the shoulders. The blazer has a clasp which creates a more tapered look and cinches the waist. Way to flatter and a blazer is just a great layering piece. For the second shot, I just wanted a pop of color so I paired with a coral necklace now at Target and a previously purchased yellow leather cropped blazer and a clutch previously purchased from last year's Prabal Gurung for Target collection. And lastly, I was thinking warmth and texture. Although not terribly visible, in the last shot I layered a black faux fur button-up vest over the top. This is a never been worn piece from the Target/Neiman Marcus Holiday collection from like two years ago. The life of a shopaholic but that's a whole other post. The shoulders of this vest are FAB. It's soft and buttery. I couldn't stop cuddling myself. I can't believe I've not yet worn. And btw, is it just me or do you notice a trend? I sure do love Target it seems. Anyway, and there you have it. Keep it simple …

Click here for this week's featured looks. Here's wishing you …

Shop Your Way to maximum savings. Click here for more details. It's quick, free and easy and you earn points for every dollar spent which can then be redeemed so that you can save on future purchases both in-store and online at Sears and Kmart.

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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

"THE LOOK OF LOVE", LOOK #3 - CHRONICLES OF THE LBD

"LBD" otherwise known as the Little Black Dress is always a safe bet. But with that being said, the style can be easily manipulated. You can create several different looks with one style. And most of us at least have one LBD in our closet so ...The key is to accessorize! Be it a semi-formal date night or a more casual evening, the LBD always works and particularly if you are looking for a no fuss look to celebrate the day of love with your love …Or whomever. Perhaps even this V Day, it's all about you. Not a thang wrong with it.

I wanted to show the versatility of this Sears Kardashian Kollection Lace Cocktail Dress.

It's true to size with a zip back and a lace neck, back and sleeves. The hemline is just right and after trying my hand at taking a few steps, it doesn't rise which can sometimes be a problem for me "and" these hips. Per previous posts, I am fan of the Kardashian Kollection particularly because of the fit. Most pieces are body conscious and great for those of us who are "ample." Picture pairing with pumps and a clutch as classic. But you can also get a bit more funky and play the LBD down. I love these Lulu*s suede booties especially the peek-a-boo toe and paired with a small bag which can either be rocked as a clutch or across the chest, I played up a more comfy approach to the evening. And I knuckled up with some extra bling on the fingers! But I also wanted a show-stopper, hubba-hubba look. 

Picture your date arriving and you step to the door rocking the LBD with leather thigh-high boots. I've had this Chinese Laundry style for at least a couple of years. I've seen similar styles everywhere. The fit is flattering. I rock over denim, leggings and pair with dresses and skirts all the time. The kitten heel allows me to be comfortable whenever I wear them but pairing them with this LBD just exuded sexy for me. Way to make his jaw drop. 
Do you have a LBD? How would you rock it?

Click here for more looks from my weeklong "The Look of Love" series.

Shop Your Way to maximum savings. Click here for more details. It's quick, free and easy and you earn points for every dollar spent which can then be redeemed so that you can save on future purchases both in-store and online at Sears and Kmart.

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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

"THE LOOK OF LOVE" LOOK #2

So remember in yesterday's post here, I mentioned wearing the leopard lounge pant with the matching zip front jacket would be a leopard overload for me? Well I went the opposite extreme for Look 2 per my weeklong "The Look of Love" series. I'm not only serving up a baroque print which is "uber romantic" as stated by one of my followers on Instagram but I'm also sporting a complete set.

This set is pulled from the Nicki Minaj for Kmart collection. I first spied the Bomber Jacket and upon trying on the matching Pencil Skirt, I was in love which is a great place to be in seeing as how we are counting down to "love day." Although I'd much prefer to be in love with a man but fashion will have to do.

Baroque is a vintage print. Both pieces are polyester/spandex which means there is a lot of give. The skirt fits perfectly and is very true to size. However, the jacket was a bit oversized. I'm typically M/L but I had to size down to a small because the oversized look was not at all flattering paired with a pencil skirt. But the fit is great. The fabric is comfy and it's just an easy and effortless look. I rocked a tank under the jacket but there are many possibilities. I actually prefer to rock the jacket zipped up instead of open and although my purple suede stiletto pumps scored from Payless a couple years ago, don't really come through as well in this pic, the color was the perfect compliment. I didn't wanna overdo as far as accessories because the print is enough. I didn't wanna be gaudy. But have no fear of prints. Now, where can I find a date?

The jacket is on sale and the skirt too for as little as 4.99!!! And there is even a Keyhole Dress in the same print.  Remember I dropped a dime on Kmart's Shop Your Way program here? Sign up! It's quick, free and easy and you earn points for every dollar spent which can then be redeemed so that you can save on future purchases from everything to clothing and home goods to gas.

What is your fave print? Would you wear this look?

Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

"YOU'VE GOT THE LOOK OF LOVE"

The 1st look in what is a week-long series during which I will be serving up one look per day as we approach the "day of love." Otherwise known as Valentine's Day. Dare I ask if you have a "valentine?" Nevermind, let's focus on the fashion. Even if you don't have a "love", you can at least be content with your love of fashion. I am. Get your daily sneak peek by following me on Instagram @bagladies. I am posting one look a day which will be followed up with a post here featuring where to buy.

I pieced this look together because not every date is a night on the town or some lavish affair. This look is casual and very comfy yet still sexy and on trend. Picture grabbing a bite or catching a movie or taking an evening stroll. If you know me, you already know how I feel about leopard but even moreso when worn as a jogger style pant. These Leopard Lounge Pants are a fave piece from the Sears Kardashian Kollection. The pant has a matching zip front jacket but as much as I love leopard, it can be overdone at least on me. I paired the pant with one of my fave pieces from the Kmart Nicki Minaj collection. I know right. I had admitted low expectations of this collection but I have been pleasantly surprised. This Quilted Moto Jacket has cute zipper accents and in a vibrant red (pic doesn't do the color justice), it provides a great contrast against the leopard. 

So onto that which really sets it off, the shoes!!!! The shoes just do it for me. I've had these Zara pumps for at least a year so unfortunately although I checked, they are no longer available. But I still wanted to provide an idea of how you can shape this look. I LOVE mixing prints and going against the norm. I totally rock a look according to my mood and I didn't want to do a solid pump or just a traditional black. Switch it up! These are closed toe so I don't have to worry about frost-bitten toes and the heel is more of a kitten style so even if out and about and on my feet for an extended period of time, no worries. Make this look your own and take from your closet what you have, to create a similar look.

The jacket is still available on Kmart.com and the leopard print pant on Sears.com and both pieces are on sale! And with Shop Your Way MAX, you can order today and have by tomorrow or select the option to pick it up at your local store. 

If not already a Shop Your Way member, sign up!! It's a free and easy members-only program! As a member, you get exclusive discounts and deals and even "big gas" savings. And most awesome, you earn 10 points for every $1 spent both in store and online. The points can then be redeemed at Kmart, Sears and Lands End stores. On a recent purchase, I redeemed accrued points and saved 20 bucks! Trust, it's great incentive and the savings are worth it. Happy Love Day!

What are your V Day plans? Would you wear this look?

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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

WEEKEND UPDATE: Featuring "A Child's Love"

Picture ripping and running from this place to that place. As a Mommy, do you know the routine? From this activity to that activity including my son's first basketball game (I'm hoarse from cheering), shopping, church and that's not all. As a Mommy, do you know the routine? I literally had to drag myself up the steps upon returning home Sunday evening, to change my clothes before preparing dinner. 

I stepped foot in my bedroom and immediately noticed two small envelopes laying on my

bed. I was surprised first and intrigued second. I noticed both envelopes were addressed to me. A smile drew across my face as I read the words from my oldest who is 9. Unsolicited. Un-asked. Un-requested. And most importantly Unconditional. The love of a child is unlike any other. The exhaustion I felt just a few moments before was fleeting and that which felt burdensome was instead a privilege. 

How does your child/children show their affection? What does it do for you?

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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

WELL WILL YOU? PLEASE CHECK ONE.

IF YOU CAN:

Draft/edit content

Manage social media accounts

Provide support as needed 

Must be flexible, familiar with social media tools, have Internet and be able to work remotely (you don't have to be based in DC). 

I am looking for a creative team player(s) who is organized and shows initiative. Oh, and you gotta like to have fun cause "this" is exciting. If you or someone you know is interested, please share and/or please email info@bagladiesradio.com. Subject: Intern Post

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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram

WEEKEND UPDATE: BEAUTY TALK + FAB KIDS + THE SUPERBOWL

This weekend was quite a bit of ripping and running but I shall not complain because I was over the moon to finally have "non-freezing your you know what off" temps in DC. Saturday got as high as 50 and Sunday just missed the 60 degree mark. I was most excited to be able to turn my thermostat down as low as possible and still maintain comfort. Translation, save money!

Spring was definitely in the air and we all had a bit of the fever. My daughters (pictured above), had me feigning for spring that much more sporting their latest FabKids looks. The love dress worn by my youngest daughter paired with a pop of neon (links below), was the perfect ensemble. I allowed her to accessorize and that she did with an all-out feathery headband and cow-girl boots. And be still my heart, I love everything animal print and my oldest wore her ensemble well which was perfect for a surprise party had for one of her classmates. Even cuter paired with short black booties and a purple flower headband. I love the contrast of the top against the print bottoms. As I've said before, I swoon over FabKids pieces and not just because of my own children. I so wish some of the pieces came in my size.

FabKids Back Zip Love Dress / FabKids Soft Legging

FabKids Big Bright Heart Tee / FabKids Animal Print Knit Pant

So one of my resolutions for 2014 is to take even better care of not just my skin which means cleansing my face not most nights but every night and moisturizing. But also taking better care of my hair. This is my second time around having locs and I am having twice as much fun because I am working with Salih Watts who is a fantastic stylist. And the market has changed so dramatically. Brands now cater to those of us with natural hair. My scalp tends to be particularly irritated during a certain time of the month, every month (hint, hint). And so Saturday, I could not stop scratching until I happened upon some leftover swag from last year's Naturalista Hair Show of which I attended and participated in a panel discussion regarding being natural. When I say this Lavender Long Island Hair Tonic (pictured left), is the bizness, it's not doing it justice. It's by Naturally Nadine and can be used on both your hair and your body. It's made to retain moisture and can be used daily. The lavender scent is divine! Immediately upon applying, my scalp was calmed. I now have a new product to add to my beauty arsenal.

Lest I forget the Super Bowl …One word. Well three words actually. Joe Namath's coat! *Drops mic*

What did you think of "the coat"? Did you even watch the game?? Thoughts??

Weekend Update is back for the new year! What is it you ask? A theme, a weekly update during which I regale you with my weekend activities which includes what's happening and where you wanna be (or wish you were).
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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen.  Follow on Twitter and Instagram