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Fashion My Style Product Reviews

SKIMS Shapewear Review

SKIMS Shapewear Review
SKIMS Shapewear Review

Spring has officially sprung in New York City – so I figured there’s no time like the present to start getting my mind and body ready for the warmer months ahead. While I’ve definitely been stepping up my fitness regimen and working out almost daily this past month, a gal could still use a little extra help getting her silhouette a bit sleeker as the days get longer and the hemlines get shorter.

SKIMS Shapewear Review

If you’ve stuck around my blog for any length of time, you know that my spring/summer uniform is basically a dress and sandals. Over the years, I’ve collected all manner of shapewear, slips, and undergarments to help smooth, lift and tighten in those areas where I need it. So when the lovely folks at SKIMS offered me a chance review some of their shapewear products, I was immediately up for it. I decided to test out the Sculpting Short Mid Thigh (worn in the above pics) and the Sculpting High Waist Brief. Not gonna lie… when I first took the shorts out of the package, my first thought was “no way are these going to fit”. They just looked so tiny! But much to my surprise, I was able to get them on with minimal struggle – and they actually fit.

As I mentioned, I’ve tried lots of shapewear, and these strike a nice balance between comfort and hold. Both the shorts and briefs come up really high (right at my ribcage) and do a great job of smoothing my tummy out without creating any awkward bulges. They also have an inner lining at the waistband that keeps them from rolling down. One of my biggest pet peeves about shapewear shorts is when they ride up my thighs. I wore these shorts for a full day and even took an uphill stroll through the park near my house, and they stayed in place THE ENTIRE TIME! I was honestly shocked. I’m actually wearing them now as I sit at a desk typing this post, and while I’m fully aware that I’m wearing shapewear – I can still breathe… and possibly even eat a cupcake.

SKIMS Shapewear Review

I purchased this slip dress from Zara during the winter with plans to layer a thin turtleneck underneath. Unfortunately, it wound up hanging in the back of my closet until now because I wasn’t quite satisfied with the way it clung to certain areas. It’s a gorgeous dress that I hated to let go to waste, so I figured it was now or never. As soon as I slipped it on over my SKIMS and looked in the mirror, all my previous insecurities about this dress melted away. I rushed to my closet to grab these statement earrings from Cult Gaia, this cute straw fedora from Banana Republic, and these super old strappy sandals from Giuseppe Zanotti to complete the look

SKIMS Shapewear Review

If you’re thinking about trying SKIMS shapewear for yourself, I think you should definitely go for it. One word to the wise though – most of their selection sells out FAST! The good news is that they do restock items often (every two weeks, if I’m not mistaken). So be sure to log onto the site bright and early Monday morning if there’s a particular piece you’ve got your eye on. I was lucky enough to receive the products in the post without charge in exchange for an unbiased review. But I like them so much that I will DEFINITELY be dipping into my own pockets to try some additional items. I’ve especially got my eye on the Open Bust Bodysuit and  High Waisted Bonded Shorts.

Do you wear shapewear? If so, what are some of your favorite brands? Let me know in the comments!

Lifestyle Product Reviews

Cozy for the Holidays {Featuring Vera Bradley}

Vera Bradley Holiday Sale 2018{c/o VERA BRADLEY Hooded Robe, Printed Slippers, and Throw Blanket in Bordeaux Blooms}

The holidays are always my favorite time of year, and even more so now that I have my son Christian to celebrate with. Christmas in New York City is always pretty magical, and while I love things like ice skating in Central Park and viewing the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center, what I’m really looking forward to is spending cozy evenings at home, snuggled up on the couch with my little one.

This Vera Bradley robe is probably one of the softest things I’ve ever put on my body, and the hood makes it extra homey. Christian kept reaching up to stroke the fleece whenever I held him. We have hardwood floors throughout our apartment, so the floors tend to get chilly. I’m always on the lookout for cozy slippers, and these keep my feet nice and toasty (especially when I’m sneaking into the kitchen for a late-night hot cocoa). Seeing his tiny face light up when we put up the tree was the best feeling in the world and would melt even the toughest Scrooge’s heart. And of course, I couldn’t resist the matching throw blanket, that’s so soft, warm, and perfect to bundle up under during cheesy Christmas movie binges on Netflix.

As soon as I saw the Bordeaux Blooms print, I knew it would be perfect for the holidays.  Vera Bradley has tons of iconic prints, and as some who’s always been a sucker for matchy-matchy ensembles, I absolutely LOVE that they have so many products available in each pattern. You can even shop-by-print on their site.

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift for a lucky lady in your life, you really can’t go wrong with Vera Bradley. They’re a classic brand that never goes out of style. I’m especially enamored with their travel duffels and backpacks which are perfect for weekend getaways.

Happy shopping! 

Vera Bradley Holiday Sale 2018
Vera Bradley Holiday Sale 2018

Full Disclosure: This post is brought to you in partnership with InSTYLE and Vera Bradley. Although I have been compensated, rest assured that every product and recommendation has been fully vetted by me, and all opinions expressed are my own. Thank you for your trust and for supporting the brands that help make this blog possible.

Maternity Product Reviews

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas with Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry. The opinions and text are all mine.

Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Jared Galleria of JewelryFull Disclosure: I was asked by Carusele to participate in the #JaredTimelessMoments campaign, sponsored by Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry. Although I have been compensated, all opinions are my own.

This year, Mother’s Day holds special importance for me as I rapidly count down these last few weeks of my pregnancy. While my husband and I have spent years dreaming and planning for this moment, I still sometimes find it hard to believe that very soon I’ll be a mommy. My heart is filled with so many emotions – ranging from nervous apprehension to pure joy and excitement – as I think about parenthood and the kind of mother I’d like to be.

Luckily, I have a fantastic role model to emulate. My mother and I may not always see eye-to-eye, but one thing I’ve never doubted is her love for me. She is truly a woman who would sacrifice everything for her children and always worked hard to make my brother and I feel protected and loved. I hope that as I raise my own children I can provide them with the same unwavering and unconditional love and support that I received from my mom.

Mothers-Day

As a kid, you think your parents are invincible, but my brother and I recently came very close to losing our mother after she suffered a massive stroke early last year. It’s been a surreal experience having to switch roles and take care of the woman who raised us. Her recovery has been remarkable and a true example of faith, willpower, and determination. Her feisty and outgoing spirit has also returned along with her physical strength, so this Mother’s Day will be a special one that we get to share as we both eagerly await the arrival of her new grandchild.

Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Jared Galleria of Jewelry

Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Jared Galleria of Jewelry
Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Jared Galleria of Jewelry

I’m very thoughtful and meticulous when it comes to gift-giving, and I’ve always enjoyed celebrating special moments with jewelry because of its longevity and ability to provide a lasting memory to its wearer. Since this will be the first Mother’s Day that I get to celebrate as a soon-to-be mommy, I wanted exceptional pieces to commemorate the occasion. That being said, I was ecstatic to collaborate with Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry to find something truly memorable. While browsing and trying on different jewelry, I discovered tons of gift ideas for both my mom and myself like this unique heartbeat necklace, these statement-making hoop earrings, and this absolutely gorgeous diamond choker.

The strength of diamonds – and in particular how they are created under pressure – comes to mind when I think of my mother.When I explained my vision and preferences to the staff at Jared’s, they were a dream to work with and provided tons of options and insight while helping me choose the perfect pieces to express my feelings on Mother’s Day.

Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Jared Galleria of Jewelry

Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Jared Galleria of Jewelry

I wound up selecting this stunning diamond pendant necklace and beautiful triangle bolo bracelet for their simple elegance and dual meaning. For me, the three diamonds and three points on the triangles represent the past, present and future, as well as my mother, myself, and my unborn child. Both pieces are great for special occasions as well as casual everyday wear, and I couldn’t wait to show them off at my baby shower this past weekend where I wore them with the gorgeous blue maxi dress you see above.

My husband and I were both impressed at the range of selections at so many different price points as well as how patient and attentive the associates were throughout the entire selection process. If you’re in search of the perfect gift (either for yourself or the mother-figure in your life), I highly recommend checking out Jared’s helpful Mother’s Day Gift Guide. It’s full of wonderful selections that are sure to bring a smile to any mom’s face.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I’d love to know how you all plan to celebrate. Let me know in the comments, as well as what you think about the pieces I selected from Jared’s!