Grand Opening Event at Coldwater Creek

Fashion Trends and Friends Followers, I want to take a minute to acknowledge the trying and difficult time we are currently facing regarding COVID 19. I contemplated not doing a blog post as I didn’t want it to feel as though everything is as it has been and yet sometimes some normalcy can be a good thing! As I look over the pictures of this event, I’m reminded of how much I already miss seeing friends and family and being able to have close proximity! Trying to create some structure and routine in my daily live has been a challenge but I’m making it work. I hope this blog post finds you and your family safe and healthy. If there’s anything we can do for your during this time, don’t hesitate to let us know!

It’s always a delight to get a request to collaborate and participate in various fashion related events! When the email came in from Coldwater Creek’s Retail Event Manager, Courtney, asking Fashion Trends and Friends to partner for the Orland Park’s grand opening, I was of course flattered and exited to participate. Courtney found our blog and Instagram accounts. She liked our content and style and was hoping we’d be willing to promote the event and help style the customers. It was a no brainer! I love to help style others and have been told that I have a great eye for being able to pull items to accent a women’s positive features!

Try On Session

Since I knew I’d be assisting others, I like to go in advance to see what’s available and to familiarize myself with the current styles in the store. This was a great opportunity for my mom and I to go together. While I’m self-confident in making my own fashion choices and decisions, it’s always nice to get a second opinion.

The staff greeted my mom and I as we entered and were very excited to see us! What a warm and welcoming feeling! The store is beautiful inside and well organized. The fitting rooms have hooks labeled yes, no and maybe to assist in your decisions and to help keep things organized. As you can see, there is a large bench, which is great when shopping with others and to set your coat, purse, etc. When I shop with my girlfriends, we like to all pile in one room!

I walked around to get a sense of all the options before I began to pull things to try on. Needless to say, I walked into the fitting room with lots of choices!

Lots of great accessories to pick from: earrings, necklaces, bracelets, scarfs and purses!

Look 1

All the colors, the pattern and statement sleeves on this top grabbed my attention! It’s super comfortable and figure flattering as it doesn’t cling anywhere. You can style it will all kinds of colors especially colored denim. Did you catch our blog on colored denim? Click here: Stylish Monday Colored Denim. It can be left untucked or half tucked or completely tucked. I prefer a half tuck! I paired it with these pull on dark wash denim jeans. This top and jeans both get two thumbs up!

Dark Wash Denim Pull-On Slim-Leg Jeans: https://bit.ly/3cRFDjb

Look 2

Some of my favorite colors to wear are yellow and blue so this top along with the embroidery and tunic style drew my attention! This tunic can easily be paired with leggings, dress pants and as shown with the same pull on jeans from the last look. In the store, it was shown with olive cargo pants, which was super cute! I’d also pair this top with white jeans. This top is figure flattering, doesn’t cling and covers a midsection if that’s important to you.

Day in the Sun Embroidered 3/4-Sleeve Tunic: https://bit.ly/2WeVZfI

Look 3

This kimono with it’s bright colors and bold print screams spring and summer to me! It’s no surprise that I love wearing colors and kimonos are so easy to style. I’ve paired it with the same pull on dark wash denim jeans. You could wear any colored top it with it as shown by my pictures. I actually prefer it with the white/cream colored cami. It can easily be dressed up or down, worn with leggings, jeans, colored jeans, shorts…the options might be endless. Do you think of multiple ways you can style an item? My general rule of thumb is at least three ways!

Botanical Garden Open Front Kimono: https://bit.ly/2W7p4Kb

Look 4

Clothing with details and embellishments always grab my attention as you’re probably well aware if you’ve followed us for some time! Therefore, I’m sure you can guess why I like these jeans with the lace patches. The jeans are pull on and have pockets. I really like the pull on jeans as it gives a smooth front as well as comfort. I styled the jeans two ways. First up, is the lace bottomed tunic. Tunics are always a good choice if you prefer to minimize your midsection.

Lace Applique Pull on Jeans: https://bit.ly/2w4T5j0

Beauty in Lace Linen Tunic: https://bit.ly/2W989ag

Believe it or not, I don’t own any plain white blouses. I decided to step out of my comfort zone and give something I wouldn’t typically wear a try. This white blouse has interest because of the side tie and it also adds some shape to my body, which I prefer over a straight up and down tunic on my body type.

Can a girl have too many denim jackets?! I think not! LOL! I couldn’t resist trying on this denim jacket because it has a peplum and a stand up collar, different than my other denim jackets and I could pop the collar of the blouse out over the jacket!

Side-Tie Easy Care Tunic – https://bit.ly/2vh9i4l

Denim Peplum Jacket: https://bit.ly/39MS0eu

Look 5

This soft kimono has a beautiful lace detail in the back. It looked so pretty styled on the mannequin in the store. The 3/4 sleeved top is super soft with some detail. These cargo pants were also super soft and very comfortable.

Everyday Chino Cargo Pants: https://bit.ly/2xzG9Cj

Which look do you think I chose to wear for the grand opening? It was not an easy decision!

As previously mentioned, the stylists at Coldwater Creek, couldn’t have been any nicer and welcoming!

Veronica, Amy, Beatriz, Betty, Jasmine and Jan: Stylists at Coldwater Creek Orland Park Crossing

Grand Opening

My mom and aunt joined me on the day of the Grand Opening. You can see that I went with the white side tie blouse, the embellished pull on jeans and denim jacket!

My aunt found a cute sweater she liked!

Sue of Fashionably Fifty also had her mom join us! To read a blog post about Sue, click here: Feature a Friend. Whenever possible, it’s always great fun to include our moms!

The mom’s could also sit and browse the Coldwater Creek catalog.

Chicago Midlife Influencers Join Me

It’s always great when my fellow Chicago Midlife Influencers can join! We always have such a great time together and can’t believe that we’ve only know each other briefly but yet feel like life long friends. If you live locally and would like to join us, drop me a comment or send an email. The more the merrier!

Sue: Fashionably Fifty
Lisa: Evolving Fifty
Linda: lglamor

Linda and Sue browse and chat!

Lisa and I have fun shopping, chatting and of course taking pictures. To learn more about Lisa, you can read a blog post here: Feature a Friend.

Lisa and Linda

Friend Stacy and her daughter Maddie joined us! Can you tell they’re mother daughter?! They’re as cute and as nice as can be!

There might be a perception that Coldwater Creek is for the more mature women. I would encourage you not to limit your thinking regarding where you shop. There is something for everyone no matter your age at Coldwater Creek! Look how cute Maddie is in this kimono! We thought it looked great with what she already was wearing and we also talked about all the other ways she could style it! Plus it’s transitional and can be worn in many seasons! By the way, Maddie is in college and is studying fashion! She loved the unique features of the kimono!

Floral Fusion Embroidered Kimono: https://bit.ly/2TP9dye

Stacy tried on this fun natural frayed edge denim jacket. We all agreed it was a winner! Maddie claimed that she’d also be borrowing it from her mom’s closet! I like it because it’s not your typical blue denim jacket, it has frayed edges and slight brown specs, which are difficult to see. Denim jackets are great for spring, summer and fall!

Natural Frayed Edge Denim Jacket: https://bit.ly/2TSErVu

Couldn’t Resist

Do you ever see something and just can’t resist even though you don’t need it? Asking for a friend…LOL! Case in point is this beautiful scarf! The colors, the print and shimmer thread drew me to it and I knew it would be the perfect spring accessory, could go with so many things and colors! Scarfs are an easy accessory to add to any outfit and elevate the look a notch! I paired it with a solid pink sweater, boyfriend jeans and my jean jacket on a recent trip I took. I got lots of compliments on it and all of the colors! This scarf was so popular that it’s sold out already. However, they have lots of other cute options!

Obsessed

There are a couple of items that I didn’t get (YET) but can’t stop thinking about, which usually means I’ll be getting them. First, is this beautiful dress! The picture doesn’t do it justice! I loved all of the colors, the embroider strip in the center of the dress and the slightly high low cut! I thought it would be perfect to dress up or down for our tropical spring break vacation, which sadly is canceled. I can still envision wearing it all through the summer and on future vacations!

Dancing Dreams Embroidered Dress: https://bit.ly/2U7s7iR

The other item I can’t stop thinking about is this really beautiful necklace! I love how unique it is and all the colors! You know I feel strongly that accessories always add extra interest and elevate a look from good to great!

Pop of Color Wooden Necklace by Sylca®: https://bit.ly/2wUsWnp

Let’s Chat

If you haven’t shopped Coldwater Creek, I’d highly recommend you give it a try! You’re sure to find something you’ll like! This is not a sponsored post and is solely my own opinion.

If you’d like me to personally shop for and style you, I’d be happy to do so. Please send me an email or leave a comment!

I’d like to leave you with positive thoughts at this difficult time! This was all over social media and I’m hopeful many good things will come from a difficult time!

Let’s Get Social

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Stylish Monday

Colored Denim

Colored jeans are a fun and trendy way to mix up your classic denim looks without too much effort. However, knowing how to wear fashion-forward colored denim can be tricky if blue jeans are all you’ve ever worn. While there are many ways to wear them, matching colored jeans with the wrong top can look too flashy or unbalanced. For a simple option, stick with neutral-colored tops and accessories. For a bolder look, experiment with blocking contrasting colors. Once you have some basic color combinations, you can easily dress colored jeans up for work settings and more formal occasions. Of course, they’re always a great casual option!

Pairing Colorful Jeans with Neutrals for an Easy Win

Cindy Scurry at Middle Sister Style Blog

Build your outfit from your colored jeans. Neutral tops pair well with nearly all colored jeans, so you can choose any color pant to serve as the base of your look. For a more subtle option, try a dark or muted hue, such as a plummy purple, faded olive green, or mustard yellow. Neon colors and saturated primary hues, on the other hand, are a fun, easy way to create a bolder look. Try a cherry red, lime green, or bright turquoise jean to really stand out.

The easiest way to start incorporating colored jeans into your wardrobe is to select a colored version of your everyday cut. Although skinny-leg colored jeans may be the most popular, you can find nearly any cut in a colored version.

Add in a coordinating neutral top. A crisp white button down or tee shirt make fool-proof partners for colored denim. Heather grey, cream, tan, and chambray are also good options. Consider the underlying color tone of your jeans when selecting the right neutral: blue-toned colors work well with cool-toned neutrals like black, gray, silver, and white, while red-toned colors are best with warm-toned neutrals like brown, gold, and cream.^[2]

Although it’s a neutral color, black can be more difficult to pair with colored jeans since it can appear too saturated, especially in contrast to light pastel hues. If the black isn’t working for you, try a dark grey or navy instead.
Pastel jeans and deep tones work best with conservative blouses or a button-down shirt. A light mint green jean will pair well with a traditional denim button-down shirt, or a deep olive green might look nice with lacy off-white blouse.
A bright jean color matches well with bolder style shirts. Funky necklines, peplum tops, and embellishments such as ruffles or sequins can hold their own against bright jeans.

Finish with a neutral-hued shoe. To keep your look easy and understated, opt for flats, sandals, or loafers in a neutral color such as brown, tan, or nude. For a slightly more unexpected look, consider a pair of metallic flats or pumps. Rose gold, silver, and bronze are still neutral colors so will pair well with most colored jeans.

Creating a Bold Outfit with Contrasting Hues

Opt for brightly colored jeans. Bold colors work best for a color blocked look, where you pair two solid-colored pieces together to emphasize the contrast. For an impactful look, choose pants in a highly saturated hue such as cyan, hot pink, or kelly green.

Select a top in a complementary color. Complementary colors are those that are opposite from one another on the color wheel, where red is opposite from green, blue from orange, and yellow from purple. These pairs provide the most contrast and will really make both colors pop.

For example, if you have bright orange pants, try pairing them with a cornflower blue top.
Although red and green are technically complementary colors, be careful wearing them together around the holidays. Unless you’re aiming for a particularly festive look, opt for muted versions of both colors, such as olive green and pinky peach.

Amp it up with similarly colorful shoes. If you’d like to create a particularly bold look, select a colorful pair of shoes with plenty of surface area to draw the eye. Sneakers, mules, and loafers are all good bets depending on the cut of your jeans. Choose a color similar to either your pants or your top, but be careful not to get the exact same hue or you’ll look too matchy-matchy. For example, if your pants are bright purple, you could try a light lavender-hued mule. I always say what’s wrong with matchy-matchy as I’m a fan as you know! However, in the fashion world, it’s frowned upon. Wear what you love and you’ll look and feel amazing!

If you’d prefer a slightly more understated look, choose a neutral-colored shoe instead. A basic tan sandal or simple grey ballet flat will keep the emphasis on the rest of your look.

Dressing up Your Colored Denim for a Fancier Look

Wear your colored jeans with a silk top and leather jacket for a date night. Colored pants are an easy way to take your date night outfit from boring to memorable— while also highlighting your legs. Dress up your jeans of choice with a silky tank top and cool leather jacket, both in neutral colors. A pair of dangly earrings and nude colored pumps will help complete this casual but sophisticated look.

Darker pants tend to be more evening-appropriate, but faded shades such as millennial pink or light mustard can also be fun options depending on the date location.

Create a romantic look with a dark colored jeans and a moody floral top. Start with slim-cut jeans in a darker color such as plum, maroon, burgundy, or deep emerald. Then add in a flowy top with a dark floral print. Cotton tee shirt styles are great for daytime looks, but a silk or chiffon option will dress things up a bit more. Finish the look with some pumps or heeled booties.

Select a densely packed floral print for a more slimming look.

Pair pastel pants with a shear or lacy blouse for a flirty option. Lace or sheer blouses are a fun, sexy way to top off a pair of pastel-colored jeans. Look for pants in hues such as pistachio, lavender, baby pink, or faded yellow. These lighter colors will generally pair best with nude, tan, or cream-colored tops.

For a more modest look, layer a nude camisole under your top. Alternatively, you can amp up the peek-a-boo effect of a sheer or lacy top by letting a brightly-colored bra or bralette peek through. I’ve been on the hunt for a bralette for fuller chested gals like myself so if you’re aware of a good brand do tell!

SHOP COLORED JEANS

Styling Denim Jackets

Denim on Denim: Pink Denim Jacket on a Blue Denim Top

A denim jacket is an essential in your wardrobe no matter what the season. But it’s especially the perfect layering piece for the spring, whether worn by itself or under a warmer coat. It is versatile and can be the finishing touch for almost any outfit. Pair it with your best dress or go super causal by adding more denim (yes! denim on denim is a thing) and a t-shirt.

If you really want to make a jean jacket stand out, you can opt for a colorful one. Dozens of brands are upping their denim jacket game by offering them in green, pink, and even purple. You can opt for a shade more appropriate for the season, so for summer go with a white one, and in the fall, try orange. Dare to be different!

SHOP JEAN JACKETS

Let’s Chat

Hopefully you’ve gotten some styling tips and ideas on wearing colored denim jeans and jackets! How do you like to style your colored denim? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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This post contains affiliate links, meaning when you click on an item or purchase an item, I may receive a very small commission for the click or purchase. These picks are NOT sponsored, are selected solely by me, and opinions are entirely my own.

Let’s Link UP

We’d love for you to share your style with us! Link your look or blog post in today’s Stylish Monday Link-Up Party below!

What’s a Link Up? Basically, it’s a fun place to share and see each other’s style, all in one spot!

To share your favorite posts simply click the blue Inlinkz button at the bottom of today’s post and share your favorite posts. Adding your link will allow you to show off your hard work, make new connections, and gain new followers! Share whatever you like and be a part of the community!!

Weight Watching Update

and Product Recommendation

If you’ve been following along with FTF for some time, you know that Lori and I have been on a weight watching journey for the past several years! We blogged about our journey and our progress. You can read about our journey here: Weight Watching Update Part 1 of 2 and here: Weight Watching Update Part 2 of 2 – my journey over the months! Lori and I continue to work the program, which will be a lifetime for me. We are always on the hunt for products that are tasty, nutritious and low in points! Natalie, a co-worker and friend of mine, is always sharing her great finds with me enabling me to share them with you. Big shout out and thank you to Natalie!

Vlog Recordings

Lori and I sit down and record numerous videos at one time since we don’t live close together and our schedules are always so full. This video was recorded before the holidays. We hope you don’t mind that we’re finally getting around to sharing it with you! Sit back with your favorite drink of choice and have a good laugh!

SHOP BUILT BARS AND WW MINI BARS

These recommendations are our own opinion. This is not a sponsored post. If you purchase through our link, we’ll make a small commission at no cost to you.

Let’s Chat

Do you have a favorite nutritious recipe or product recommendation/s that are tasty but low in points/calories? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment!

~SAVE THE DATE ~

JOIN US THIS SUNDAY!

I’d like to personally invite you to join us this Sunday, March 8th from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the Grand Opening of Coldwater Creek in Orland Park! There will be Prosecco and sweets and an enter to win give away!

Let’s Get Social

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Magnifying 10x Makeup Mirror

Product Review

FTF hopes you enjoy our product review and vlog series! Technology isn’t our thing so our videos are pretty much the raw, unedited real deal! Although I have to say I think we’re getting a lot better! Hope you find the humor in our authentic selves!

SHOP THE MAKEUP MIRROR

This review and recommendation are our own opinion. This is not a sponsored post. If you purchase through our link, we’ll make a small commission at no cost to you.

Let’s Chat

Do you use a magnifying makeup mirror? Have you found a favorite? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment!

Would you like Lori and I to review a specific product? We’d be happy to do just that and are always looking for more ideas. Leave us a comment!

~SAVE THE DATE ~

JOIN US AT OUR NEXT EVENT!

I’d like to personally invite you to join us on Sunday, March 8th from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the Grand Opening of Coldwater Creek in Orland Park! There will be prosecco and sweets and an enter to win give away!

I’ll be joined by my fellow Chicago Midlife Influencers! We hope you’ll come out to see the new store and get some styling tips or assistance! I’m going to be doing gift card give away on Instagram so make sure you’re following us HERE for your chance to win! Will you be joining us? Drop us a comment!

Let’s Get Social

Subscribe to YouTube (HERE)

Styling Event

Evereve Story

According to Evereve’s website,

“We love fashion, but that isn’t the full story at EVEREVE. When we decided to make our crazy dream real and start a clothing company, we had a different purpose—to use our love for fashion as a way to inspire joy.

This journey began when Megan (Co-Founder and Co-CEO) went shopping as a new mom and ended up in the dressing room feeling overwhelmed and all alone. That moment inspired her to reimagine the retail experience—how it could be everything that day wasn’t—and eventually became the foundation for EVEREVE when we opened in 2004.

Today when you shop in our 86 stores, at EVEREVE.com or get a Trendsend delivery, you’ll discover modern and versatile clothing with just the right amount of edge, curated for you. You’ll experience warm, welcoming and wholehearted service—and dressing rooms that only inspire tears of joy. The opportunity to create these moments alongside our incredible team is why we’re here, and it’s these moments that keep us moving forward.”

The Amazing Staff at Evereve Wheaton Town Square
Mel, Christina, Kris and Simona

In my opinion, Evereve Wheaton Town Square does exactly that…they create a very positive, joy filled experience assisting to style you to maximize your strengths! The staff are upbeat, super friendly, listen to what you’re asking for and assist in putting together a look that’s on trend and perfect for just you!

Sips, Snacks and Styling Event

When Chicago Midlife Influencer Lisa asked if we’d all like to be part of a styling event, it was a no brainer! Sounds like fun! I’m in…you know I’m all about hanging out with gal pals, having fun, laughing and shopping! (To read a previous blog post about Lisa: Click HERE)

Lisa and I went for a try on sessions to determine what would be our top picks and assist us in promoting the event! The try on session was just as fun as the event!

Try On Session

If you’re a true shopper, you can really get a rush as you walk into a store and for me the experience almost begins as I’m approaching when I can see all the cute things in the window! When Lisa and I walked in, the cute options were endless. We quickly began picking out things we wanted to try on and at times we were in the same looks – twinning!

These Level 99 camo joggers with neon yellow zipper pulls along with this super soft sweater with neon stripes grabbed my attention immediately. Neon and camo are currently trending and why not pair them together. Pattern mixing and different color combinations are something I’m working on and think I’m getting much better at doing!

This graphic t-shirt seemed like a good alternative to the sweater! The tshirt is distressed and the lettering is neon. The staff suggested I add the leopard belt. Jean jackets are always a wardrobe staple. This particular jacket had some great detailing in the back! The wedges were super comfy and not a color I would particular gravitate towards. The staff suggested black might be better but did not have my size. It’s always a good idea to thing about how you can style something multiple ways to get multiple looks and make something work in your existing wardrobe. Mixing old items with new items really extends your whole wardrobe and helps to give you an updated look!

Olive And Oak Neon Varsity Stripe Pullover

Level 99 Jolie Utility Pant With Neon Zipper

Chaser Tiger Tee

Here’s another way to style these joggers! How cute is this sweater with neon trim and python print slides? Now that’s all kinds of pattern mixing; and I love it!

Peyton Jensen Lulu Neon Zebra Sweater

J/Slides Luv Snake Sneaker

Next up, gray snakeskin print skinny jeans, a graphic tee and a reddish jean jacket. I also paired the look with a black reversible jacket, which ended up being my preference. The graphic tee says, Go Fight Win…which reminded me of my cheerleading days plus I liked the metal studs on the lettering.

David Lerner Go Fight Win Tee

Kut From The Kloth Kara Jacket

Frame Le Skinny De Jeanne Python

Blanknyc Pitch Black Reversible Moto

This camo jogger set is super soft and the hot pink detailing adds a pop of fun color! It’s a great look for being pulled together yet comfortable! The pieces can be worn together or separated for additional looks and options! Both Lisa and I really liked this option!

Sundry Camo Pocket Jogger

Sundry Camo Varsity Hoodie

Spiritual Gangster More Love Tee

I don’t know about you but I’m always on the quest for the perfect pair of jeans that hold me in, slim me out, are super comfortable and stylish! I have several pair of black jeans but none that fit and feel as amazing as these do! These 7 For All Mankind high waist black ankle skinny jeans do all of that and more!

When you’re quest is a success, you do a little happy dance in the Denim Studio! On a side note, do you notice the Go Fight Win tee in this picture paired with a cardigan – another styling option!

The website doesn’t have the black pair but I found deep blue and white.

7 For All Mankind High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans

Peyton Jensen Stella Snake Pullover

Peyton Jensen Brooke Bomber Jacket

Tie dye is continuing to trend. How cute is this oversized sweatshirt?! It’s easily paired with jeans (blue or white) or leggings. It would do a great job camouflaging your midsection if that’s important!

Free People Ombre Metti Crew

Styling Social

Prior to the event I met Lisa and Michelle (Chicago Midlife Influencers) at Ivy Restaurant for drinks and dinner! A styling event is a great time to grab your gal pals and head out for an evening of fun! All of our guests received 15% off of their purchase!

Some fun accessories because you know that accessories elevate and complete a look!

Michelle of OverFiftyandBlessed and I enjoy some sips!

Lisa, Michelle and Myself (Chicago Midlife Influencers/Bloggers)

Michele of ZyiabyMiche came out to shop with us! How cute is this camo bomber jacket on her?! You might recall I did a blog post on her fabulous athletic wear. You can click HERE

Overall, I’d say the event was a huge success and fun was had by all!

My Styled Looks

Recently, I went to a conference in Portland Oregon and brought my new Evereve outfits with me. Here’s how I styled two of the looks from above. I spent an entire day in a pre-session. My Level 99 camo joggers and Olive and Oak sweater were perfect to keep me warm as well as cute and comfy! I already had a neon yellow belt and wore my Steve Madden wedges. Voila!

There is a lot of walking involved and moving around the convention center so I really wanted to be casually cute and comfy! Both looks enabled me to achieve my fashion goals!

As we were about to leave the styling event, I spotted this Rolling Stones Graphic Tee with the leopard tongue plus the leopard spots on the tongue are velvety! It had to come home with me!! Does that ever happen to you? You’re about to leave and something grabs your attention and before you know it it’s added to your pile of must haves?! Asking for a friend…LOL! I recently wore it to a get casual get together at a friend’s house for dinner!

Daydreamer Rolling Stones Tee

JOIN US AT OUR NEXT EVENT!

GRAND OPENING EVENT SUNDAY, MARCH 8TH 11:00 – 1:00

Fashion Trends and Friends was invited as a social media influencer to attend the Grand Opening of Cold Water Creek in Orland Park on Sunday, March 8th from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. I’ll be joined by my fellow Chicago Midlife Influencers! We hope you’ll come out to see the new store and get some styling tips or assistance! I’m going to be doing gift card give away on Instagram so make sure you’re following us HERE for your chance to win! Will you be joining us? Drop us a comment!

Let’s Chat

Have you ever shopped Evereve? It’s truly a joyful experience! Which looks were your favorite Evereve looks? Leave us a comment! We always love to hear from you!

Let’s Get Social

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Stylish Monday

Heart Health and Red Hot Styling

February is the month of LOVE and Hearth Health! Women are often busy caring for others, but it’s important to take care of yourself as well. An annual check-up with your primary care doctor gives you a chance to get important facts about your health, to talk about any symptoms you feel, and to ask your doctor what you can do to manage your risks if you have any.

Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease, hypertension and stroke, is the number one killer of women, according to the American Heart Association. It kills half a million American women each year. That figure exceeds the next seven causes of death combined.

Heart Health Tips

A healthy lifestyle is the foundation for heart health for women. You can make healthy choices like:

Eating a diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean poultry, fish, and low-fat dairy products
Getting regular physical activity
Finding healthy ways to cope with stress, like physical activity, hobbies, or meditation
Getting regular check-ups to keep an eye on your risk factors
If you’ve been diagnosed with heart disease, following your treatment plan, including making any lifestyle changes your doctor recommended and staying on your medicine

At least annually, I have to have an echocardiogram. An echocardiogram checks how your heart’s chambers and valves are pumping blood through your heart. An echocardiogram uses electrodes to check your heart rhythm and ultrasound technology to see how blood moves through your heart. An echocardiogram can help your doctor diagnose heart conditions. My rheumatologist keeps close tabs on my heart and lungs due to my scleroderma. To read more about my autoimmune disease click here: Scleroderma: A Rare Autoimmune Disease

My most recent echocardiogram was done in December in preparation for my six month visit to my rheumatologist next month. He already messaged me through My Chart that my heart looks good! I don’t typically dwell on the fact that my scleroderma could damage my heart and lungs but am always relieved to hear the everything looks “good”! Phew!

On to more pleasant topics now…

Red Hot Styling

Red and pink are the colors most often associated with February and dressing for Valentine’s Day! Depending on what plans you have will probably dictate how you choose to dress up fancy or more casual. Even if you don’t have any plans you can use the day as an excuse to give yourself a little self-love and celebrate all of the relationships that lift you up day after day. Perhaps you’re celebrating with girlfriends – Galentine’s Celebration! February 13, Galentine’s Day, a nonofficial holiday, is celebrated as a day for “ladies celebrating ladies. “I’ve been wearing my Love looks since the end of January and don’t necessarily need to be limited to just February.

Red and Pink ~ The Obvious

Red pants are a staple in my wardrobe. I wear them almost all year round! This particular pair has been in my closet for quit some time. The pink and red sweater is Target. I wore this look to work but it would also be great for a Galentine’s celebration or a casual date night. This look can be worn all winter long and is cheerful during the dull, long Illinois winters.

Red Pants: New York and Company
Red and Pink Striped Sweater: Isaac Mizrahi Target

Last year was the first year I paired red and pink together. I was inspired by others on social media. This is not a color combination I would have previously worn! I totally embrace it now! That’s the beauty of getting out of your comfort zone now and then and trying new things! You just might find a new to you combination that you’ll love!

SHOP THE LOOK

Loving All Things Love

Apparently, I love all things with LOVE on them as I have quit the collection. While most of these I wear during January and February, they really could be worn almost all year long. I shopped my closet for all of these looks!

This sequined heart love sweater pairs well with my velvet leggings from Express. However, it could also easily be worn with black jeans or black dress pants. This is a look I’ve worn to work…students and staff like it when I dress for the holidays or at least they humor me! It’s a great look for a Date Night or Galentine Celebration!

Sequin Love Sweater: Stein Mart (Last Year)

Black Velvet Leggings: Express (Last Year)

Who says that all Valentine looks must include pink or red? This sweater can easily be worn most of the year and doesn’t necessity scream Happy Valentine’s Day. It would be a great option if you prefer a more neutral palette. How cute is the little heart at the end of the word love?! Shopped my closet for the whole look. While I consider this look casual, I think the gold boots, gold belt and pearls elevate the look. You know I like to be fancy and a little extra!

Love Sweater: Dress Barn
Fury Jacket: Candies
Jeans: Express

Gold Boot: Lucky (Amazon…a long time ago!)

This H & M Love sweater had me at embellished letters with pearls and rhinestones! I already had the sequined striped jeans and metallic boots! Voila! Instant look of Love! Shopped my closet for the whole look!

Love Sweater: H & M
Rhinestone Belt: Chico’s
Sequined Striped Jeans: Stein Mart

This cardi and tee have the prettiest embroidered details! The flowers and Love are perfect for a Valentine’s look! However, they could also be split up and styled differently. You can see that my red pants do get a good workout!

Cardigan and T-Shirt: Macy’s I.N.C. International Concept (from my closet)

This last Love sweater is also shopped from my closet! I liked that it was olive colored and not your typical Valentine’s Day look. Again it can be worn year round and isn’t only limited to February. I purchased it when I was heavier but can still pull off wearing it!

SHOP THE LOOK

Hearts

Who doesn’t love an oversized sweatshirt? So cute, comfy and easily hides your midsection after you’ve eaten all the chocolates…LOL! Last year I purchased this adorable heart covered sweatshirt and heart shaped glasses both of which were all over Instagram and social media! I’ve seen many similar ones again this year! Hearts can be worn year round! I’ve paired the sweatshirt with white jeans…another relatively new for me style option because I was a rule follower and never wore white after Memorial Day…well no more! Wear what you LOVE!

SHOP THE LOOK

Valentine Sleepwear

These are the softest, cutest set of jammies; and I found them at TJ Max. The pj’s are the Ellen Degeneres line (ED). The bottoms are jogger style, which I love because they don’t ride up while you sleep. I couldn’t pass up the pink and gray Dearfoam slippers, which are very soft! If you look close you will see the hearts and happy and love logos all over! So if you’re not going out and about on Valentine’s Day, you could curl up on your couch or in bed in a cute and comfy pair of jammies!

Ellen Degeneres Pajamas: TJ Max
Dearfoam Slippers: TJ Max

SHOP THE LOOK

Here’s the Red Hot Styling of My Fellow Fashionistas

Let’s Chat

What’s your style preference for the month of Love? Do you prefer flowers, chocolates or jewelry? Leave us a comment! We love to hear from you!

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Feature a Friend

Meet Lisa of Evolving 50

“Be Kind. Be Confident. Be Beautiful Inside and Out.”

Fashion Trends and Friends is as much about friends as we are about fashion. This week we are happy to introduce you to a fellow Chicago Area Midlife Influencer. Lisa is a self-proclaimed makeup and skincare junkie! We first met on social media via Instagram. Our first in person meet up was this past summer July 2019.

Seated Left to Right: Lisa, Michelle and Sue
Standing: Myself and Linda
Chicago Midlife Influencers/Bloggers

Myself, Lisa, Sue, Michelle and Linda
Chicago Midlife Influencers/Bloggers

You can read a previous blog post about Sue of Fashionably Fifty: click HERE

Lisa’s Background

I grew up loving makeup! My mom always had a lot of makeup around and I remember playing around with her Mary Kay cosmetics. I also have two sisters; and we are all very close in age. You can probably imagine what it was like with a house full of girls. We were sharing makeup and clothes (or taking without permission). As a teenager I had my own collection of makeup. I would do makeovers on my friends, cut their hair, share clothes and styles. One of my friends still calls me the product queen! So I guess you could say I started young. I see my sisters often; and we travel together a few times a year. As adults, we now willingly share makeup, hair products, clothes – you name it! It’s great because we are all trying new stuff all the time.

Getting Started

For many years friends and family have been asking me for suggestions with skincare and makeup. I’ve taken many of them shopping for makeup. I had several friends tell me I should write a book or start a blog. I started Instagram (IG) just to see what kind of following I would get and then maybe start a blog. I still have two (high school) of my three children at home; and I work out of the house part-time so I wasn’t sure if I had time to start a new venture. It took me 2 years to finally be brave enough to start it. It was really hard at first putting myself out there. I’m getting used to it and it’s been really fun so far! It is a lot more work than I imagined. I’m blessed to have met so many great people through this platform; and I learn so much every day from other women my age.

Lisa’s Top 5 Beauty Product Recommendations

1. For taking makeup off: These two products are very reasonable and work for just about every skin type, very gentle and hydrating! Use a cotton round/square with any Micellar Water to take makeup off then wash with Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser.

2. Isdinceutics K-OX Eyes – complete under-eye treatment
My dermatologist recommended this product.

3. PCA Intensive Brightening Treatment every other night
My dermatologist recommended this product.

4. Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Premiere Intense Moisture and Renewal Activation Cream Broad Spectrum Sunscreen 30

5. City Beauty Multi-Action Sculpting Cream

Lisa’s Top 5 Makeup Recommendations

1. IT Cosmetics CC + Cream with SPF 50+ goes beyond color-correcting to deliver 7 products in one, including your full-coverage foundation, hydrating anti-aging serum and physical-only sunscreen.

2. Cle De Peau Beaute Concealer – will stay put all day!

3. Cle De Peau Perfect Mascara – the best Mascara!

These two products are Lisa’s personal line!

4. Evolving Beauty Primer – Use under makeup

5. Evolving Beauty Highlighter – Perfect Highlighter!

The Evolving Beauty Primer and Evolving Beauty Highlighter are two products that I can give a big thumbs up! I have both and love them. Prior to meeting Lisa I did not use a primer or a highlighter. She put the highlighter on me and I knew I had to add it to my daily routine! The primer keeps my makeup from going into my lines/wrinkles and creates a smooth surface for applying my makeup!

You can get Evolving Beauty Primer and Highlighter here: https://shop.shoppies.co/collections/lisa

Tips and Tricks for Midlife

Number one tip – stay out of the sun! It ages our skin so quickly. Wear sunscreen every day, even in the winter! UV rays from the sun are the primary cause of wrinkles, pigmentation, sun spots, reduced skin elasticity, the degradation of skin texture, and many other signs of skin aging.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Not only does moisturizing your face help you feel and look younger, it can also improve the health of your skin overall. The best facial moisturizers leave you with soft skin that is well-hydrated and rejuvenated.

Create a glowing base. Use a primer before your foundation and mix a little highlighter into your foundation. Make sure you’re wearing the right color foundation and under-eye concealer. Change your foundation and the color for the different seasons.

Keep everything bright under your eyes and the inside corner of your eyes. You can use a brightener or brightening powder in those areas.

Use an eyelash curler! You want to open up the eyes and make them look as big as possible because it’s more youthful-looking.

If you’re using eyeliner, make sure you’re flicking it up a little bit never down or too straight or it makes eyelids look heavy.

Always put a highlighter on last. It will give your skin a dewy glowy look! Use a highlighter on the top of your cheekbones, above your arch of the brow, just below the brow line, and down your nose. Don’t use highlighter right under your eyes it will accentuate the fine lines and crow’s-feet.
I could go on and on…..

Fun Times

Although we just met less than a year ago, I feel as though Lisa has been a long time friend! Getting together no matter what we’re doing is always guaranteed to be a good time, full of laughter and fun! That’s part of the beauty of this blogging and social media posting. I’ve met amazing new friends like Lisa! If you’re not already following her, you can click here: https://www.instagram.com/evolving.50/

Witches Night Out – Naperville October 2019
Sue, Lisa, Me (a fellow witch) Linda

Illumi Brew at Morton Arboretum – November 2019

Holiday Get Together at Michelle’s House – January 2020
Sue, Lisa, Michelle and Me

Styling Event at Evereve in Wheaton – January 2020
We’re Twinning!

Twinning in our Camo Jogger Sets at Evereve in Wheaton

This review and recommendations are our own opinions. This is not a sponsored post. If you purchase through our link/s, we’ll make a small commission at no cost to you.

Let’s Chat

Isn’t Lisa a beauty?! Plus she’s beautiful inside and out!

What are some of your favorite beauty and makeup products? Do you have any beauty tips and tricks? Please share! We’d love to hear from you!

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Product Review

Magnetic Eyelashes

Check out our previous blog posts:

Eyelash Extensions – Click HERE,

Extensions vs Serum – Click HERE

and Magnetic Eyelashes (tops and bottoms) – Click HERE

SHOP MAGNETIC LASHES

This review and recommendation are our own opinion. This is not a sponsored post. If you purchase through our link, we’ll make a small commission at no cost to you.

Let’s Chat

Have you tried magnetic lashes or any other lash products or services? What were your thoughts and feelings? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment!

Would you like Lori and I to review a specific product? We’d be happy to do just that and are always looking for more ideas. Leave us a comment!

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Stitch Fix

A Review of Stitch Fix

FTF hopes you enjoy our product review (in this blog a review of Stitch Fix) and vlog series! Technology isn’t our thing so our videos are pretty much the raw, unedited real deal! Although I have to say I think we’re getting a lot better! Hope you find the humor in our authentic selves!

This review and recommendations are our own opinions. This is not a sponsored post.

Let’s Chat

Have you ever tried Stitch Fix? If so, what are your thoughts and feelings about the items you’ve received? Do you participate in any other type of clothing or subscription boxed items or clothing rental programs? We’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations! Please leave us a comment!

Would you like Lori and I to review a specific product? We’d be happy to do just that and are always looking for more ideas. Leave us a suggestion!

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Fitness Goals

POUND FIT

My journey has now spanned two years! I detailed my weight loss journey via WW (Weight Watchers), which you can read here: Weight Watching Update. Being thin and fit has been a struggle for me. For a time, I was fit and heavy. After loosing 51 pounds, I was thin and out of shape! Last year, I set a goal to maintain my weight and get in shape. To keep it interesting, fun and maintain my motivation, I set out to try physical activities that were knew to me. First up was aerial yoga. Yoga is a physical activity I’ve done for years and truly enjoy so why not give aerial yoga a spin…literally and figuratively! To read my blog post on aerial yoga, click here: Aerial Yoga. For me, it was an immediate winner and I’ve continued to take sessions since I’ve first tried it. Additionally, I went with my step-daughter and grand daughter to goat yoga! Goat yoga is more of an experience than it is a fitness routine but I highly recommend it. To read about goat yoga, click here: Fitness Goals 2019 – An Update Goat Yoga

In July of 2019, I set my alarm for 4:30 a.m.! Getting up at 4:30 a.m. during the school year is not unusual for me! The fact that I’m off in the summer and don’t usually set an alarm was a challenge. However, if I wanted to try a Pound Fit class, it was only offered on Wednesday mornings at 5:15. Getting out of bed I cursed myself and wondered if I was crazy!!! I half told myself that I would go try this thing called Pound using weighted drum sticks and then I could check if off my list of new things I wanted to try! I knew very little about what was actually entailed but I knew you used drum sticks and that was intriguing. It was shocking how full the gym parking lot was and additionally shocking how full the studio room was with warm, welcoming and super friendly people who embraced me and I immediately became part of their Wednesday morning Band! The music was pumping and lights were flashing and in that instant I knew I would love POUND!

Meet Kim

Kimtastix
“She dances to the songs in her head, speaks with the rhythm of her heart, & loves from the depths of her soul.” – Dean Jackson

With Every Single STRIKE…You Turn Up The Healthiest YOU!

Instructors: Kim and Brittni
Experience the Energy of POUND…Unleash YOUR Inner RockStar. We don’t WorkOut … We RockOut

Kim and Brittni are my Pound instructors. Kim is a pint sized dynamo! Together they both bring the fun, provide encouragement and elevate/motivate us to give a little more when we feel as though we have nothing left to give! Both Kim and Brittni made me feel welcome and part of the group. During the first class, I kept thinking about how beneficially this class would be for students, staff, all my friends and family! I couldn’t stop thinking about how I was going to try and bring this experience to as many as possible! To say I left energized, pumped up, excited is all an understatement! I set my alarm for the remainder of the summer break and did not miss a class! After I went back to work, I wrote a letter of commendation for Kim and Brittni along with a bit of a plea to add some additional classes in the evenings! Pound is now offered on Monday nights! Woo Hoo!

On a side note, they have the most amazing set lists of songs! The set list has matched the time of year especially the holidays! The fashionista in me truly enjoys and appreciates that Kim and Brittni often match their outfits to each other and to their set list! Another layer of fun for yours truly!

Interview with Kim

You’re probably wondering what exactly is POUND, how it got started, why it’s beneficial…Here’s my interview with Kim detailing all of those answers and more!

Now Watch Kim in Action

Pound with Friends

As stated in the interview, I’ve invited my friends and family to join me at class! Everyone that has tried it has loved it! I’m working to bring this experience to my school district and get some Ripstix in the hands of the students, teacher, parents!!!

I invited my friend Lisa who lives nearby and belongs to my gym! She thought I was nuts when I asked her to join me at 5:15 a.m. Lisa came back the following weeks and brought a friend of hers along! It’s like the commercial where you tell two friends and they tell two friends and so on… This is me in all my sweaty glory, no makeup, energized state after class is over and ready to conquer the day!

Over Labor Day Weekend Vaughan Center offered a Pound class with a DJ! Off the charts fun! I can hardly wait to try an event with a real drummer in a venue where we celebrate afterwards! The music, the lights, the energy are all part of the experience!

The Workout Tribe that Rocks Together Stays Together!

My Aunt has been on the same weight loss and fitness journey as I have been! I have shared her story and pictures on FB. I was thrilled when she joined me for a class! Sorry this picture is so dark. The room is dark with lights flashing but not so good for pictures! In case you’re wondering, I received wrist weights for Christmas so they’re a perfect add on during my Pound Class.

Aunt Mary Ann has lost over 75 pounds! So PROUD of her!

Did you see my blog post on Zyia active wear? If not, click here to read about this great line of workout wear: Zyia Active – One More Rep I collaborated with a friend, Michele, on this post! Michele and her son’s girlfriend recently joined me for a Pound class! They’ll be back!

You can follow Michele here: https://www.instagram.com/zyiabymiche/

This is my step-daughter Tiffany. She attended Pound with me this past Monday. She has a Nutrition/Fitness Blog. You can follow her at:
You Are What You Eat

I’m a HOT, SWEETY MESS but in a good way!

Pound Class and Aerial Yoga have not only allowed me to meet my fitness goal for 2019 but have provided me fitness routines that I can truly say I enjoy and look forward to going to each week! I knew the minute I met Kim that I really liked and connected with her! Her posts on her social media are not only uplifting and encouraging but very motivational! In a recent post, “2020 for me is all about living in my purpose and passion to impact people at a deeper level. To push the limits of the ordinary and create outlets for people to have extraordinary experiences!” She does just that!

Follow Kim

“CALL IT A CLAN,
CALL IT A NETWORK,
CALL IT A TRIBE,
CALL IT A FAMILY.
WHATEVER YOU CALL IT,
WHOEVER YOU ARE,
YOU NEED ONE!
and when you find it…
NEVER LET IT GO!!!”

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceKimtastix/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimtastixexp/

Let’s Chat

Have you tried a Pound class? Here’s the website that Kim mentioned in the interview: https://poundfit.com/ You can enter your zip code to find a class near you. If you take a class, I’d love to hear what you thought!

What workout activities do you enjoy doing? Leave me a recommendation! I’d love to try new things!

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