Catching Up -- Five Friday

I fell off a giant cliff near my school and am just now getting back to normal from the horrific accident.

No, that's not true at all, you silly cats and hood rats.
I'm just busy. & (slightly) lazy. & formerly sick with some crazy unknown illness that's really no more serious than just the common cold.

I am BACK for a bit, though, to catch you up on the not-so-cool things going on in the world of SS. My students sit silently taking a standardized test (draft writing, my bad!), so my downtime is great and I am lah-ving it! Here's a quick (or not so quick) Five Friday for you, random updates edition!


1. First things first, this weekend is St. Patrick's Day and I may look more Irish than I really am, but damnit, I celebrate like a champ. The downtown festivities cannot be missed and the weather is proving to be quite charming and lovely for a wonderful time of outdoor day drinking.....BUT what to wear, one might ask? Well, I have been searching far & wide for the perrrfect pair of green jeans. "A pop of color by way of denim is so in right now, SS, how easy for you!" -- HAH, I laugh at your naivety, because the only jeans I could find were mint, teal, turquoise, sea foam, or just about any shade of green aside from IRISH green. That is until I walked into Old Navy post-workout one night out of sheer bordem (or sheer panic of needing green jeans). LAST pair of true green pants that exist on the planet...and they were on the mannequin. Nuh-uh, SS ain't havin' that! I promptly turned into "that girl" and asked one of the employees if I could de-pants their female model. She didn't seem fazed at all--helpful even!--to endure the awkward task. Once I had the pants in my hand, I thanked her kindly for her de-robing skills and also apologized for being "that girl" (which makes you even more so "that girl") -- air quotes over. Green pants found. Let the drinking commence! (tomorrow, that is....) I leave you with not a photo of new skinny pants (sort of self-explanatory) but a recipe for a grrrrreast Irish beverage that sounds disgusting but you need to taste it to believe the magic. Fo' reals. If my one sistahh is reading, she'll be proud I posted this!

IRISH BREAKFAST SHOT -- If you do it correctly, the finishing taste is exactly like pancakes...wild!
1. In one shot glass, pour two counts of any whiskey and one count of butterscotch schnapps.
2. In another shot glass, pour in some good ol' orange juice.
3. Take the first shot and immediately follow with the second.
4. Let the pancake taste fill your mouth with joy.
.......you're welcome ;)

2. Second things second, I have a new baby! She's adorable, really, and although I've dressed her in the one color I hate most (pink), she still somehow shines and sparkles like a true superficial piece of technology after my own heart.

{awkward crooked photo much? sorry.....}

I know, I know, the "newww" iPad is coming out THIS Friday (aka today), but why not jump on this deal?! The iPad 2 is now $100 cheaper and the "newww" iPad has grrreat specs and all, but I don't need all that mumbo-jumbo schtuff when the 2 is just as cute. Done deal. I went up a bit in SSB's book for owning one. What a loser techy he is!

3. On the topic of technology, I have been bah-bah-busy with stuff at school...but mostly outside of my own classroom. Seniors are starting to get hellishly sick with something I can only find to be LAZINESS, but they have some cutesy name called "senioritis" -- I mean, I had it too....but for four years of college, so it was entirely different....and entirely warranted! Oh, right, technology. Well, in the midst of all the cray-cray going on, THIS happened.....

MAN DOWN. MAN. DOWN.

...and I cried.

...and I called SSB.

...and I got a new phone/case the same day.

...and all was right with the world again.
(if you're like me & want durability without buying an Otterbox, buy a SPECK case!)

4. Can I make a shout-out now? To one of my dearest blogging pals, The Procrastinator! I was out shopping at Marshall's to find a yoga towel (ok, to find just about anything cute) when I came across a makeup item she recommended to me a few months back. & WOAH, honey child, I lahhhhve it dearly. I dare not leave you in suspense any longer....
Enter: The Balm Products
I found not ONE, not TWO, but THREE different sets from The Balm and I just could not decide....so I picked up all three. Then, a small voice (or my friend) told me I was being irrational considering two of the sets had very similar products. I let my better thoughts win out and purchased only two. Life-savers, I tell ya! The products include.....(sorry no personal photos of post-purchase packages since I ripped into those bad boys faster than La-Lohan gets outta jail!)

If you do not have any of their products yet, you MUST scope them out ASAP. The packaging alone suckered me in before the inner genius in me screamed and said, "THIS is what The Procastinator was talking about!"
The products I purchased are two blushes (Hot Mama & Frat Boy), a shine powder (Sexy Mama), and a mini kabuki brush (sooo soft!) -- the BEST of the bunch (and the reason I freaked out) was the Bahama Mama Bronzer...so fab, I love it a ridiculous amount!
If you are not already following The Procrastinator's posts, you're missing out, dear readers! Go check her out immediately. Seriously....go.

5.I leave you with just ONE teacher rant story to end this hodge-podge-fodge post!
Male Student: Miss Smith, I wanted to ask you something, but really do not want you to be mad at me.
Me: Ok, well opening with that line never ends well, soo.....
Male Student: But Miss Smith, I'm one of the best in this class, and I really need your help!
Me: Ok, ok, shoot....
Male Student: I am entering a local radio contest to win VanHalen tickets. Soooo....
Me: Ok, spit it out, class is starting...
Male Student: Well you only win the contest if you enter a photo of your teacher while they're teaching.
Me: That doesn't make any sense!....I'm not a fan but I know that's not how their hit song goes...
Male Student: Uhhh, well this is awkward now. It is a hot teacher contest.
Me: Sit down, it's not happening.
Male Student: (whispering to classmate as he walks away) I'll just get the photo when she isn't paying attention.
Me: I heard that.
Male Student: Shit.
....and scene. All in a day's work of educating our youth....on what you should never ask your teacher. (PS the actual radio contest is not a real teacher contest...just for people to dress up like slore-bags and pretend to play hot teacher for a couple snapshots. I meeeean, I don't play pretend anymore, kitty cats, those days are past me, thank you very much....I don't pretend to play the bitch teacher anymore, I just am her!)


I am so sorry for straying from the SS scene as of late. Promises to do better, but promises are empty, soooo I'll just go ahead and say I'll see ya when I see ya next ;) --which WILL be soon!
RANDOM FINISHING NOTE: Listen to Gotye's "Somebody I Used To Know" and let your ears jump with melodic joy. It's good. SO. good.

Until next time, I hope you have all been doing faaabulously in your own lives.........

First Haul of 2012

Yay, Happy New Year & all that jazz!

It's back to work tomorrow after a too-short break away from the kiddos, so I thought I'd help the wounds by shopping. Apparently, everyone else in my town thought the same.....woof.

I headed to Victoria's Secret for their semi-annual sale before going to Old Navy and Ulta. A mini spree, yes, but I'm still stoked about the goods!

Shall we just skip the VS portion of the shopping trip? I think so...
Oh, and let's forget the fact that I lost my camera cord and had to take these with my trusty iPhone.

OLD NAVY
Striped Sweater -- Not entirely sure what drew me in about this seeing as how it is bright and has stripes, but nevertheless, I love it now. A bit of nautical, a bit of prep, perfect for work!
Twisted Neck Top -- I picked it up merely because it was cheap, but the effect of the "twist" around the neckline is really cute, and again, stripes! Sensing a pattern....no pun intended.
Bobble Bottle -- Thanks to my blogging buddy AlmostBritain for telling me about these! I will (hopefully) be able to keep h2o bottles out of my car by using this bad boy which filters the water for you. Woot woot! Found it by the check-out at ON, couldn't resist!

ULTA
*Thanks to my dear, dear friend in FL who got me an Ulta giftcard for Christmas. She just knows me, that one!!*
Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Zero -- Finally! I got one! I went to see if they had the NAKED liner set from the holidays, but alas, it was sold out. Bummer. Still, I knew I needed to add one of these bad boys to my arsenal and the one I picked up was the last Zero, so it was really fate calling out to me. Obviously.
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion -- Have used this before but was bone dry on my last bottle. I am slightly addicted to this stuff even though my skin problems are (usually) non-existent. This stuff works, though, for those "ahhhh" moments around the time of the month.
Revlon Lip Butter in Raspberry Pie -- (Another) finally! I have been looking for these everywhere and could never find them. I was entirely unsure of what color to get, but this raspberry hue looks rich and perfect for the winter months. I may have to review this bad boy, more to come perhaps.
Sally Hansen Salon Effects in Love Letter -- Could not pass this "color" up when I saw it; very newspaper nails but without the work/mess! Clearly anything that looks like it took time but didn't is a winner in my lazy-ass book.
Urban Decay Mini De-Slick Setting Spray -- Running low on my "All-Nighter" spray and thought I'd give "De-Slick" another chance. I could use some oil control as of late so hopefully this work better than the classic spray.

There you have it, a haul to start off the new year right! As a side note, you should definitely hit up your nearest VS for their semi-annual sale. Ridiculously good deals! I got eight items for $100....and let's be real, ladies, most bras there retail for at least $75 -- and who doesn't love a great sale?!


Until next time, I hope your new year is also starting off wonderfully............

Five Friday - Resolutions!

Now that we've moved through Christmas and are SO very close to 2012, I thought I'd do a Five Friday of the resolution variety...you know, those things we all say we will totally do...and before the calendar even reaches the middle of January, we've already failed.

Admit it, we all do this.

Admit it, we all don't really care.

Well, this year, I do. Sort of. Kind of....I mean, I'm going to try!

2012 Resolutions! (Sort of....)

1. Fit into my bridesmaid's dress. No, this is not a strict, LOSE WEIGHT CHUNKER (whooo you callin' chunker?!) resolution, but rather, I need to tone my ass up (or really, my tum tum) before the wedding. It's in May. Calling all Richard Simmons, Jillian Michaels, and Tracey Andersons.....give me your best shot, I'll do my best not to cry in the shower after.

{"she'll never forgive me for skipping those crunches, 

did you hear the way she was screaming at me?!"}

2. ALWAYS eat breakfast. I know, they say a Starbucks latte every morning is not a breakfast meal, but it is to me...or has been for a solid two years now. I eat breakfast on the weekend....sometimes. I need to go out and buy some good "grab and go" breakfast items, so let me hear your healthiest favorites! I can microwave it at work if need be, too, so what is your favorite quick meal?

{starbucks still has to be a part of my "balanced" breakfast....}

3. Keep my car clear of h2o bottles. Yeah, it sounds like a pathetic resolution, but you have probably not seen the passenger floor of my car, it's a disaster zone with half-filled bottles....and lots of them. Seeing as how I have myself a NEW CAR (said in my best Price is Right voice), I think I should kill it with the white trash bottle look and keep my new whip looking fly & fresh.

{i want to say i feel like a straight ganstahh in it, but it's more girly than 

anything - lighted speakers & hands-free controls, though, baboom! 

oh & my keys will never be bulkier that that, hate that look!}

4. Drink TWO bottles of h2o everyday. Hahahahaha I laugh at my audacity to state such a bold thing. Again, another sorry excuse for a resolution, but I am a terrible water drinker. I just don't like the stuff! However, I know it's absurd of me to not drink it, so I plan on making it taste good at least....you know, get rid of that, ugh, water taste. It's awful, really. However, if I can pull off this resolution, then maybe #3 won't be so hard to overcome, too! Genius, I tell you!

{should I just add these to my water, are they any good?!}

5. Actually keep my above resolutions. Hey, go with me on this one. If I follow this resolution, then I just followed every other resolution on my list. It's double the guilt if I make this resolution and don't follow through with the others, sooooo hopefully this one results in my (sort of) resolutions becoming a (definite) reality. Right? RIGHT?! Well, we'll see......

{classic.}

There you have it, my Five Friday -- resolution style! I hope you all realize these are not truly my big goals of 2012, but a list of things that are absurd and easily fixable and prove how ridiculous I am. Hope you have a list of these too ;)

For now, I cheers to you and yours and hope you have the best of times in 2012. I will be back "next year" to discuss my adventures in 2011 and share some photos, too!


Until next time, have fun watching that big ball drop (that came out terribly wrong)...........................

These Shoes were Made for Walking....on NYE!

I have seen so many shoes that would be perfect twinkle toe options for the upcoming festivities of ringing in the new year, so I thought I'd share my favorite ones with you today to get you into the spirit of walking into 2012 with serious style!

GLITTER HEELS. Duh, most obvious choice ever to grace our feet! They pair with just about any outfit so long as it is in solid tones and minimal on the shine and sparkle....we don't want to look like a complete disco ball....at least that's not the look I'm going for!

PAIR WITH:

-a great LBD

-a red skirt and black top

-solid gold dress

-jeans/jewel tone blazer

BRIGHT PLATFORMS. Considering you cannot pair your glitter heels with a glitter dress (unless you want to look like you've been dipped in a vat of sparkles), you'll need to pick another pair of shoes. I have heard that platforms are slowly falling out of style (noooooooo!) but before the new year hits, bring out your red or blue heels to pair with a solid dress to give a great pop of color. Any jewel tone works during the holiday season, so a cobalt blue or great ruby/burgundy color would be perfect.

PAIR WITH:

-a glitter dress

-black tux pants & white collared shirt with a bow-tie (Kardashian "Khristmas" card?!)

-jeans & a sparkly jacket

LEOPARD WEDGES. So fierce, so ridiculously cool, you'll be the best badass anywhere you choose to party on NYE. I would stray from anything shiny or sparkly when wearing these shoes, though, as the combination should be left with the girls being paid to walk the streets that night!
PAIR WITH:
-lace sleeved LBD
-burgundy top & skinny leatherette pants
-cropped skinny jeans & a muted gold sweater

PATENT BLACK BOOTIES. I am usually not a fan of patent black, as most shoes look cheap in this fashion (unless, of course, they aren't actually cheap). Something about a pair of patent booties looks very androgynous, though, which always wins in my fashion book!
PAIR WITH:
-bright tights & a that LBD (always a go-to!)
-dress shorts (in a fun hue!), black tights, white blouse
-black skinnies, ruby sweater, black jewelry

Regardless of your shoes--or outfit--choices, be sure to have a fun, safe, and extremely enjoyable new year's eve....looking forward to seeing NYE outfit posts!!


Until next time, let's rock out these last few days of 2011.................

Christmas Outfits - The Good & The (really) Bad

I know I have already done an outfit post for some go-to holiday styles, but I thought maybe I'd take a moment to point out some fashion trends that may or may not be a good idea to rock for your festive events.

Yeah, I'm talking about all those people you see at church, holiday parties, or work functions that took the dress code to an entirely new level....a level of utter travesty. Let's point them out verbally and giggle behind our computer screens, shall we?

#1 -- ALWAYS Keep it Classy

Ladies, it is never ok to transform your club cocktail dress into a church-going clothing item. Really, the big man and baby Jesus will not smile down on you for your choice of poor fabric, shiny sequins, and sheer black tights you wore in a sorry attempt to "class" up your Christmas outfit.
Rather, think OPAQUE tights, something that hits closer to the knee than closer to your ass, and when in doubt, do not wear something that looks like it falls under the "club" section on F21's website. Yes, hunny, you know what I am talking about...step away from the one-shouldered animal print!

#2 -- Man(ifest) your Guy Code

Gentlemen, please, under no circumstance, wear a turtleneck to any holiday function. Really, even if you are married or have a girl locked down with a ring, it is still entirely unacceptable to revert yourself back to your childhood days of santa-printed turtlenecks and reindeer sweaters. Am I the only one seeing this horrific flashback to yesteryears?! Seriously, though, you look like you're suffocating yourself over the holiday stress and that is never a good look to sport, dear lads.

Rather, a solid-colored sweater or plaid button-down in neutral tones is a smart choice. Understated is always classy, never cheesy. Plus, if you don't have a girl locked down, then you have every reason to look sharp and not seedy with your Santa neck-contraption!

#3 - (Do NOT) Wear your Cheer on Your Sleeves

Lest we forget about those people who wear entirely too much cheer on their sleeves.....and stomachs and shoulders and legs and.....you get the point. Overdoing it on the trashy sweaters and printed pants may be humorous, but really, it is incredibly embarassing at the end of the day. Aside from being the goofy guy in your office or the funny history teacher all the kiddos love, this look does not work! The worst part is when women age themselves by rocking those 3D sweaters where the presents, snowmen, or Christmas trees are literally popping off the vest/sweater/trash...like, really, you really thought it looked good? Did you fail art as a child, too? Clearly your taste in all things creative fell to the wayside somewhere....I hope Santa finds it and brings it back for you with a tastefully wrapped ribbon to boot!
If you must deck the halls in wearable holiday cheer, do it with colors rather than visual art. Wear a red sweater with a great cream scarf. Rock a cobalt blue tee with a black blazer. Jewel tones say "let's rock in this holiday" in a much more fashion-forward way than the woman who has Christmas lights for buttons on her cardigan.

Have any more tips for our fallen fashion friends? Fill me in!

I will leave you with a photo of me & SSB from a Christmas party we attended this weekend.......and boy, we nailed the theme!
Ugly Christmas party?! More like absolutely-dreadful-to-the-point-of-tears Christmas party!! BOOM.

(Yes, mine lights up & yes, SSB has a stocking near/around 

his southern region....gawwwd, I chose a classy one!)

Until next time, I sure hope you are making conscious Christmas clothing choices this season...........

Five Friday - SS Santa Edition

How long has it been since I've done one of these?
Don't answer that.....

....I think I stopped because they just got monotonous, fo reals.
Seeing as how it is dangerously close to Santa's arrival, though, I thought maybe I'd do a mini wish list for my classic "Five Friday" post -- bring it back with some Christmas class, ya dig? ;)

Christmas dies a little when the fat red-suit man is no longer real and when your parents stop asking for a "wish list" (which mine still do, but not nearly to the feverish extent in former childhood years) BUMMER, seriously. This holiday really has sneaked (yeah, not snuck!) up on us this year, so I've had little time to consider my gifting options. Below are five that I would be happy to give or better yet...receive for myself, bitches!

1. Urban Decay's 24/7 Eye Pencil Travel Size Set of 5 in NAKED
Why not receive a gift that goes with the greatest eye palette of all time?! I think having mini neutral liners from UD would be an amazing gift. I would love to try these out, too, as I have never purchased one of the 24/7 pencils before. I know, I hear your hushed gasp of shock! Buttttttt, dear sisters, if you're reading, take note. Please & Thank You!

{I think they come in a great size, too, a serious deal!}

2. Ray-Ban Classic Aviators or Wayfarers
I am terrible with sunglasses, so I'm the classic girl who "doesn't deserve nice things." However, I love these sunnies so much, I would consider taking extra good care of them if someone was extra nice enough to give them to me (cough cough, SSB!) -- I would like the gold aviators or the classic black wayfarer....you know, because I'm clearly a badass.

{Ray-Ban knows their shit, for sure!}

3. Fur Throw Blanket
After seeing one of these bad boys at Marshall's recently (which, bee tee dubs, I've become obsessed with their home section as of late!), I had to have one....but didn't really feel like buying it. They are awesome, though! So many color options; a dark brown one with a plush side in addition to the fur. They also had one, though, that was a wild sandy fur color that was out.of.control, hunny! It would look bananas in my bedroom and I'd do Rachel Zoe so proud....and not only because I just used two of her catchphrases!

{Look, this one already comes with a nice bow for wrapping!}

4. New iPhone Case
I feel like I think about "needing" a new case more often than not. Really, I'd be fine and completely content without a new one....had my recent case not just committed pocket suicide. I pulled it out in a rush and the side (that was super-glued shut) caught my pocket & snapped to an unfixable point. I would consider repurchasing the same one (Andy Warhol's print of an old telephone) but wouldn't mind getting a new one that was a bit girlier. I currently have an EIGHT dollar one from ON (feels like highway robbery) that looks like an old cassette tape....pretty badass, but I could still use another option ;)

{DVF knows her clothes and now she does the iPhone beautiful justice, too!}

5. New MBMJ Watch

I love the one I already have, but I could always use a gold/rose gold option for those accessory days where a silver watch just isn't vibing with the rest of my outfit. Girl problems are so tough! I love simple watches, not into bling-tastic ones, but it needs to be masculine. I hate small watches. Yuck city. I mean, I'd be pretty freaking content with the one below!

{Love the two-tone style, simple but sleek}

This could sound totally bitch-tastic, but that was a fun "Five Friday" to do! Now that I got to write my own Christmas list, I feel much more into the holiday spirit. Granted, my family and friends have most likely finished their shopping already, but I'll be sure to keep these items in mind when I'm out shopping for myself post-Christmas...is that wrong of me? Probably. Do I care? Definitely not.



Until next time, I hope you are also diving whole-heartedly into the holiday season. I will be back to show some weekend pics of SSB and myself in awesome Christmas attire...............

Christmas Crafts with a GUEST BLOGGER

Considering I have very few crafty bones in my body (& the ones I do possess are pathetic, at best), I've asked one of my dear blogging buddies to conjure up some holiday crafts to get everyone thinking of snow, sugar plums (what are these anyways?!), and Santa!

If you've never had the pleasure of checking out her blog, please do so to thank her for giving you such fan-tabulous craft ideas to make sure your holiday is bright ;)

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Hello everyone! I am so excited to be a guest blogger on SS's amazing blog! I am the writer behind Little Ramblings. I love fashion, makeup, music, movies, etc., and you can find all of this and more on my blog! Today, I will be sharing some of my crafty DIY centerpieces to help you prepare for the holidays!   

Cranberries & Pebbles.

This first centerpiece is my favorite. It is simple and so elegant. Another plus about this centerpiece is how affordable it is! I bought the vase and glass pebbles at The Dollar Store, so that's a grand total of two dollars. I picked up the cranberry branches at Jo-Ann Fabrics last year so I am not certain of the price, but I believe they were on sale for about one or two dollars. They can be found at any craft store, too!

{This decorative piece would be a great centerpiece, but it could also be placed 

on a mantle, side table, or even in a bedroom for a sleek and simple decoration.}

Pinecones & Ornaments. 

These two items are not just for the trees. I love the idea of incorporating the outdoors...indoors. There are so many options when it comes to this decoration. You can use a variety of containers (vase, basket, tin box) and mix & match what you put inside of each!

 {I love pinecones and the rustic feel they provide. By adding simple, solid colored ornaments, a chic and simple ensemble is created. My favorite design is the vase with pinecones and ornaments. I love mixing gold and red together. They are the perfect holiday colors for anything and everything. This would look gorgeous on a table with a couple candles surrounding it. Very romantic! You could also place these decorations on a bookshelf, side table, or any nook and cranny that could use a little holiday cheer!}

Bright & Beautiful.

I love the bright and cheerful colors of this decoration. It might be the simplest project because you probably already have what you will need lying around your house already. All you need is a giant bowl and ornaments of your choice!

{The colors and designs on the ornaments remind me of something Cindy Lou Who would put together in The Grinch. The giant glass bowl makes just as much of a statement as the bright baubles. I picked up these beautiful ornaments at The Dollar store, as well! That place has some great stuff if you spend some time looking. I picture this piece in the middle of a table filled with snacks and treats to add a little extra glam. It would also make for a fun centerpiece!}

I hope you enjoyed this little DIY post! I would love to see your versions of these centerpiece ideas! I hope you have a great holiday season! Thanks again for having me SS!

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Thank YOU so very merry much, Little Ramblings, for spreading holiday cheer on my blog today. I love these ideas and will do my darn best to incorporate them into my Christmas decor! My personal favorite decor item this season (aside from presents under the tree!) is a Christmas tree candle! I absolutely love the scent of a fresh tree and am glad candle companies jar that shit up so I can have it before our actual tree is cut down and put into our home! (Which is happening later today, woot!)

Until next time, check out my blogging buddy's page and have a very merry time utilizing your Christmas crafts...........

HO HO HO - Superficial Holiday Spending Guide

Hello dear readers! Can you believe we'll be stuffing our faces with turkey and, well, stuffing in less than 24 hours?! Are any of you venturing out to get sloshed on this wonderful Thanksgiving Eve? If you are, have one for this bitch. Not that I won't be drinking myself, but let's make this a team effort, in the spirit of the holidays, after all ;)

Now I'm as crazy as they come, sure, but not crazy enough to get up before the sun the day after eating my weight in festive food just for a good holiday bargain. I was, actually, the girl who did it ONCE with friends in high school...and ended up just buying stuff for myself and a few items for friends and/or family. Yeah, that's where my Black Friday experience starts and ends, try not to judge too harshly.

I'm here today to give you a guide to giving this season for every budget out there and for every person out there you need to buy a gift for this season. Let's hop into Santa's sack, shall we? (That came out wrong...)

FOR THE BEST FRIEND, SISTER, OR MOTHER BEAR

$30 OR LESS
1. Nail Polish Sets - These are always out around the holidays and they are great for the girl-tastic BFF or sibling whose polish collection can make a salon weep with envy. Try the Muppets collection from OPI or even Butter's giftsets this season. Really, most all nail polishes come out with collections for Christmas giving, the choice is yours -- just try to pick polishes that won't clash with her skin tone...nothing worse than buying the wrong reds collection for your pale-skinned pal! ($5-$30)

2. F21 Scarf & Earwarmers - F21 never disappoints when it comes to scarves. Buy a bold print or pattern for your mom so she stops stealing from your collection (yes, mother, talking about YOU!) and get a cute neutral ear warmer headband to match. Stray away from anything too plain for the scarf because it looks as though you either didn't care or are clueless when it comes to knowing her fashion taste. ($8-$25)

$60 OR LESS
1. Urban Decay's NAKED Palette - If there is a pal in my life without this, then I'd want to be the one who was sure she added it to her collection. It's my favorite set of shadows and no beauty pal of mine should be without it. Find it at Sephora or Ulta, Macy's, or even Nordstrom, but act on this quick, because these are sure to be snatched up during the holiday season! ($48)
2. TOMS Shoes - Why not give a gift to your sister or best pal while giving to someone else in need, too? Go for the sparkly pair for the girly girl best friend or choose a pair in your sister's favorite color or pattern. Heck, if your mom is into this style, too, get her a pair in a neutral color that she can rock on the weekends. ($44-60)


FOR THE BOYFRIEND, BROTHER, OR PAPA BEAR

$30 OR LESS

1. Slouchy Beanie or Skull Cap - Some dudes really love these warmer hats, especially my twin brother, so getting another one to add to their collection will be sure to make them happy. Try getting one with a subtle print you know he'll like or stick with his favorite color. Try to stray from black (he probably has tons of those!) or white (they get too dirty!) -- a royal blue or plaid print will do the trick for brother or boyfriend! Try PacSun, Journey's, or American Eagle for plenty of options. ($15-$30)

2. Graphic Tee, Plaid Shirt - Even though most men don't love shopping and would rather cut off their right arm than hold our bags while at the mall, they don't mind getting a shirt from us because it means we approve of said clothing item which gives it more wearbility in their mind. Just don't be surprised if your boyfriend wears this specific shirt the day after he did something wrong to try (and fail miserably) to get back in your good graces. Check out Urban Outfitters for some great options for every kind of boy. ($20-30)

$60 OR LESS

1.Booze Gift Set - I know this sounds odd, but really, it's a great idea for just about any man out there (of legal drinking age, of course!) Most of their favorite liquors come in gift sets around this time of year, whether it's Maker's Mark coming with cool wax-covered rocks glasses or a nice flask with his favorite bourbon. It shows you know what he likes to drink, which will undoubtedly score you points with the boyfriend or even some extra money from dad....because dads are much more willing to hand over some cash for gas when they've tipped back a few! ($30-60)

2. Skyrim, COD, Nerd-Tastic-ness - Whether they admit it or not (and most have no problem coming to terms with their inner child), most of the men in our life love video games. Snoop around or ask him questions to determine which one he is pining after (and didn't already buy after waiting in line until midnight!) to be sure you pick a game you know he'll like. Sure, you can pick any old game, but we're trying to prove we know what they like here, ladies! They will surely appreciate the fact you just saved them $60 and are accepting the fact you just lost several dates to whatever game you bought him! ($50-60)

FOR ANYONE ON YOUR LIST ($5 & UP)

1. iPhone/iPod/iPad Case - Believe it or not, most of these won't break your bank! Go to your local Apple store to find a case for your tech-savvy sib or best friend to show you not only want to protect her phone while she's texting you, but prove that you know what she likes, too! There are great ones by Kate Spade and other designers for the girls in your life, but don't count out tech brands like Incase, Speck, or Uncommon -- all who have very trendy and sturdy cases for both guys and gals. ($25-$50)

2. Designer Watch - If there is one piece that is worth the splurge, it's your time-teller! Guys and girls alike can get on board with watches from Michael Kors (for your sister or mom), Fossil (for the dudes in your life), or my personal favorite MBMJ (for your best friend). A classic watch is a great gift no matter who the person is, but be sure to ask them discreetly if they prefer silver or gold before making the big purchase! ($50-$200)

3. Gift Cards - I know, I know, so cheap and what a cop-out, but really, when budgets are tight, sometimes it's nice to know you can buy some new tops from your favorite store with someone else's money! Be sure to pair it with something sentimental (a photo of you together with a homemade frame, a mini scrapbook of the vacation you went on recently, a vintage copy of their favorite old-school novel, etc.) and also be sure that the GC is for a place you know they absolutely love; that way, you avoid looking like you spent all of 2 seconds on their gift, and when it's placed with something super special (and thoughtful!), the gift card looks like an awesome bonus! ($5-$100)

**If there is ONE gift to avoid getting girls, it's the dreaded bath set. I'd prefer ALL gift cards in place of receiving even one of those sets from B&BW. This may just be me, but it really just seems odd. "Please shower with better smelling scents" or "HERE, I thought of you when I saw this!" -- as least if I got a gift card to my favorite store, I would know you knew what I liked. A bath set? I think I can buy my own loofah and body wash at Target, thanks.

**The no-fail gift for dudes seems to be electronic (again, that came out wrong). My dad loves iTunes gift cards to download his old-school tunes, my brother would be stoked to get another pair of over-the-ear headphones or a new iPod, and SSB is all about the tech, no matter what it is. Look at your local Best Buy if you're totally lost on what to get the men in your life, be sure to tell them your budget if you're asking for help, and they'll be happy to steer a pretty girl like you in the right direction (really, all the dudes working there will jump at the chance!)

There you have it, my opinions on what is great to give to your loved ones this season, superficial-style! Just be sure you spend time time actually thinking about what to get them, because no one likes a gift they can tell you didn't put thought into.....unless it's cold-hard-cash, baby! Make it rain on this bitch then! I kid, I kid....sort of.

Until next time, I'm off to dream of turkey and mashed potatoes while I drink myself silly, have a wonderfully perfect and happy Thanksgiving..........

Holiday Dressings (NOT for your food....)

Sorry for my absences over the weekend, as the last few days have taken its toll and I am now rocking a wonderful cold, just in time for the holidays. Fear not, dear readers, SS will recover in plenty of time, and if I don't, I'll just drink hot toddy's all weekend ;)

Considering I am now listening to Christmas tunes and warming up my room with the scent of Christmas tree candles, I thought I'd bring the holiday cheer to the blog by creating some outfits that are holiday-approved, whether you're off to your family's for Thanksgiving or in need of a fantastic frock for a future holiday party.........this bitch has you covered!

PARTY PIECES
1. Thanksgiving - No matter where you are headed this Turkey Day, it's best to keep in mind the food. Avoid white clothing (gravy stains don't always look like gravy....) as well as anything too thin or too tight. Thanksgiving is the time for a great pair of jeggings, a chunky sweater, great boots, and a patterned scarf. If you want to up it a bit, try wearing a dark-wash jean, brown riding boots, a bold print tank and blazer or belted cardigan. The look for this holiday is casual comfort. Don't overdo it, because the focus should be shared among all guests, after all.

 {the cozier the sweater, the more you can eat, sister!}

2. Christmas Parties (for work) - Nothing tackier than wearing something too flashy for a party with your coworkers....unless you work at a club. Pick a great fitted shift dress in a neutral color  or a nice jewel tone and add fun accessories. There's nothing wrong with picking a great LBD and making it special by pairing it with a bright scarf or great jewelry. You want to look classy without looking like you tried too hard to impress the people you work with. You can, however, pull out all the stops if you work in fashion....you need to impress those types of bitches ;)

{fun accessories can look festive enough on their

own, so don't overdo it with a flashy dress!}

3. Christmas Parties (for family) - If your family does a Christmas party for neighbors or friends, you probably don't need a dress for the occasion, unless you live on the Upper East Side and every event is a dress event. Try a great pair of slim black dress pants with a color in a rich hue of red or purple. You could rock a skirt but be sure to pair it with cute tights and/or boots and a simpler top so you're not showing too much skin in front of your family's guests.

{chances are you won't need shoes at your own family's house,

so feel free to let a bold toned top be the focal point!}

4. New Year's Eve - Go ahead, buy the sparkly dress or the sequined skirt. Wear the silver hot pants with black tights. Rock a leather pants or glittered heels. NYE is a great time to try out a bold outfit. My sister is having a Masquerade party and I plan on finding a great sequined dress to pair with my raven feather mask (that I still have yet to make, of course). Most women will be decked out regardless of where you go, so don't feel like you shouldn't be the same. If you want to go with jeans, wear a bright or bold top so you don't get lost in the crowd. If there's one holiday where you should stand out, it's the day before a brand new year. Work it, sister!

{i must have the blue sequined dress, it's fantastic!}

FACE IT!
1. Try gold shadow for Thanksgiving or a simple bronzed face with a bit of pink blush. You'll be eating a ton (or should be!) so avoid a high-maintenance lip.
2. For Christmas parties, go simple on the face and add a great red lip or silver eyeshadow (but not both at once!) You could even try to rock a colored liner with a bare lid for an interesting pop with your LBD.
3. For NYE, you best be rocking the false lashes! Pair them with a winter glow: pale pink lips, mauve blush, and really any shadow that will complement your skin tone. Just take your usual, everyday look up about two notches to look like the best version of your gorgeous self!

NO, NO, NO & NEVER
1. Do not wear red and green together, it's just a holiday travesty.
2. Don't don Christmas pins or weird snow globe earrings, it's just overkill. You're not 75 yet.
3. Try not to overdo the makeup when you're in the company of family. There's no need to impress the people that helped change your diaper way back when, they know what you look like for real.
4. Don't rock fabulous shoes that the host will just ask you to take off at the front door; epic fashion fail.
5. For the love of all that is Christmas, make sure you check for VPLs on any outfit you choose. There's nothing that can kill an outfit quite like obvious underwear marks.

I hope you have fun finding your fashions for the holidays coming up. Feel free to experiment and have fun, and don't be afraid to pull out all of the stops for NYE. Check out Forever 21, Nordstrom, or American Eagle for some great tops, bottoms, or dresses for the last parties of 2011 ;)


Until next time, come on back tomorrow to get started on gift planning! I know, the thought makes me cringe, too..............

To Trend or NOT To Trend.....

There are some things that, as of late, have been ailing me, or perhaps, not letting me live my life to its fullest height of superficiality (I kid, I kid). Let's discuss these matters in what I'd like to call: "Blogging is my therapy."

Don't panic, it's not getting that deep!

1. You "mustache" from this trend -- (that should read more like must dash, dear oblivious folks) I don't know why but the mustache craze confuses me so very much, and I've seen it everywhere in the blogosphere since summer! I would appreciate it if we would, at the very least, kill most of the hairy craze....it can remain on cute mugs from Urban Outfitters and the like, but having your entire wedding party holding up the mustache stick or constantly photographing yourself wearing the finger drawn hair craze and then tagging all of those photos on your facebook is just going beyond the normal boundaries! Please, for the love of all that is blogging, stop the madness!

{if you own all of this, you've gone too far!}

2. I hate blood, but love Edward -- I have an obsession and don't care who knows it! Actually, I do because I've never been overtly open about my love for all things Twilight and the vampire trend, but alas, I am opening up now since this is a therapeutic session where you, dear reader, are not allowed to judge. Do the books suck from a literary standpoint? Yes, the errors are horrendous, her editor should be fired, but I still love those books!! Did the first movie make me feel awkward from all the tension and fakeness from the actors? Without a doubt, stop biting your lip Kristen Stewart! The movies (and actors) have come into their own, though, and I think they've gotten better with time.

.....ok, ok, so I just want to see Edward Cullen break the headboard in the sex scene heard 'round the world. Don't judge me with those judgy eyes!

{if you haven't seen the trailer of him breaking the bed, watch now}

3. "You're one and only source into...." -- Ever since Gossip Girl has been added to Netflix (or ever since I discovered this fact thanks to AlmostBritain!), I have been watching it with every free moment given to me since the weekend. I may or may not have started the middle of season two on Saturday only to be six episodes away from finishing season four.......and I may or may not have watched it too much, as my own dreams the other night were narrated by Kristen Bell's voice, I kid you not (not nearly as glamorous as it may sound!) SSB told me I should take sleeping meds. I think maybe a good day away from GG would aid me just fine, but we all know that won't happen. XOXO.....

{not a Little J fan in the slightest!!}

4. It's beginning to look a lot like...nothing?! -- I love Christmas tunes as much as the....next gal or guy who loves Christmas tunes, but let's be real, the first snow fell over Halloween weekend and hasn't showed its glittery face since! I mean, I don't need the snow, really (no really, Mother Nature, I don't!!!), but I need something to feel like the holidays in order for my inner Santa-believing-child to come out and rejoice all things merry and bright. I listened to Michael Buble's Christmas album the other day before feeling like I just jumped the gun. Stepping into the Starbucks store today, though, totally changed everything. Father Christmas, you are now officially welcomed into my world :) You have been greeted with my snow globe fingers and the best Christmas album to date...NSYNC's. Yeah, I said it.

{OPI Skull & Glossbones under F21's Silver Sparkle Polish}

There you have it, "trends" I have been conflicted with in the past week or so.
Mustaches -- NO!
Vampires -- Just Edward Cullen.
Gossip Girl -- Intervention?!
Christmas -- Now HERE!


Until next time, I hope you also use blogging as your therapeutic session....after arriving home from your actual shrink...........