DIY Decor

First I made a chevron template to fit on canvas. I just made sure all angles were 90 degress. You can also find the template online. I did not find this out until after I was done. Then I taped above the template with 1 1/2 in. painters tape. This way I would not have to make as many lines.   To make the chevron design continue to the other canvas' I created the tape markes with them side by side, then separated them to paint.

I have been busy lately working on some projects for my house, so I have been away from the computer.  I have been inspired  by many DIY projects on pinterest and thought I would do one my self.  I started with redoing our guest bedroom.  I just loved all the greys and yellows I saw on the design boards, so that is what I went with.  First, I painted the walls a light grey (1 gallon, $30) to accent the new headboard we just got.  I didn't want to have to spend much money on this room, as it is only used a couple times a year, so I just used an old down comforter and old pillows (acually new, they came with our couch, but I hate the designe) and made new pillow cases for them.  I spent a total on $30 on fabric.  I purchased the curatins at Target for $20 a panel.  The chevron pictures are another DIY project I did.  I bought the canvas' from Hobby Lobby, 2 for $8.00.  To make the grey paint I mixed black and white (I already had these at home) and purchase a small acrylic paint tube from the store for $2.00.  I am also working on redoing the dresser, which I will make another post when it is finished.  Total redo cost...$100.

Coral

Dress: old, Kensie, similar here
Jewelry: Forever 21
Shoes: Gianni Bini, similar here, here

Today I tossed on my coral dress from Kensie at Dillard's.  It was of course on the clearance rack,  I always shop there first, and I rarely buy anything at full price.  However, because it was on the clearance rack I did not have many options in size, so it is a little big.  To fix this problem I added a belt to gather the dress and if I wanted I could pull it over the belt a little and make it shorter, depending on where I am going.  Today I paired it with my trusty leopard belt, as seen in tons of other posts.  I also like to pair it with a black belt or any other color would be great too. I used a nude pump to finish it off.  I also got these shoes at Dillards on their clearance rack.  Dillards is a great store to get great deals, if you don't have to have something right aways.  I often see things I really want, but don't buy because I know they will go on sale.  I frequent the store and check up on the pieces to see if they have gone on sale.  I go there so often I know when they change seasons so I can be on the look out.  I will definitely say Dillard's is one of my favorite places to go.

-E 

Walking on Clounds





Cardigan: Target; Short: old jeans; Belt: Kohl's, similar here; Jewelry: old  Forever 21



Shoes: Aerosole, similar



I wanted to show you how much I really love adding leopard print pattern to EVERY thing.  Today I added my belt, again with an olive color cardigan I got for $5 at Target.  I was so happy when I found these I bought several in different colors..  I love to layer then year round.  I also added my new soon to be favorite shoe.  It is also in an animal print.  They are the most comfortable pair of flats I own.  My favorite part is they have a little gold shimmer to them.  I paired these 2 new items with olders stuff from my closet, such as the old jeans I cut into shorts, and a tank from GAP.  I was walking in comfort all day while hanging out with my niece.

-E

Two Staples

Belt (old): Kohls; Shirt (old): Kohls, Vera Wang

Flats (old): Gap

I wanted to share with you two items I have in my closet I often wear.  These are my go to pieces.  When I am in a hurry I find myself grabbing my leopard flats and belt to add a little something to many of my outfits.  This weekend I was just doing things around the house and running a couple of errands, so I ended up wearing my favorites.  What I like best about these two things is that it can be paired with so much and worn year round.  In a previous post I was wearing the belt with peach and yellow.  I like to wear these with many different colors.  Leopard is considered a nuetral here.  I am sure you will see them in many posts to come. 

-E

The Day After

The Day After by erinn06012 featuring canvas tote bags

Glamorous lace top, $28 / Quiksilver cotton shorts / Victoria's Secret beach bikini / A|X Armani Exchange flat shoes / Canvas tote bag / R.J. Graziano pearl bangle / Adia Kibur layered necklace / clipped by margarita25, $22

Often times after a Holiday we are still enjoying our days off of work and family/friends.  I put together this outfit as an example of something you could put on and still run errands, shop, have lunch with your girl friends and still be ready to lounge at the beach or pool.  By adding a hat to the mix it allows you to not have to mess with your hair and keeps the sun out of your eyes.  You will often see me wearing hats in the summer months.  I also still enjoy dressing your swim suit up with your favorite jewelry.  Just because you are relaxing doesn't mean you can't do it in style.  I will be wearing something similiar today as I will be running errands and laying by the pool.  What will you be wearing on your day after?

-E

Mix and Match: Stars and Stripes

Mix and Match: Stars and Stripes by erinn06012 featuring gold filled jewelry

Quiz red and white striped dress, £25

River Island corset top, £28

Sleeveless top, £16

J.Crew long shorts, $65

Luella high waisted shorts, 50 AUD

Dune patent leather shoes, £32

J Crew straw beach tote, $45

Beach handbag, $28

A Wear box clutch, £20

BCBG Max Azria wrap bracelet, $28

BonBon Boutique gold filled jewelry, €25

Hive & Honey tear drop earrings, $18

Blue shoes

Flat shoes

Rhinestone jewelry

Stars and Stripes

I love being able to parade our colors this time of year.  Here are 3 looks I put together to celebrate.  You can mix and match the accessories to give you the look you are want to achieve.   For casual look go with sandles or tennis shoes and a big bag.  If you are having a night celebration any of the outfits paired with the heels and clutch will give you a polished evening look.  Wear the jewelry you feel most beautiful in to pull everything together.  I hope you enjoy your July 4th celebration and try a stars and stripes look.  I will be on the look out for my look. 

-E

Lace: Day to Night

A list of all items and prices can be found at Polyvore.com

Lace: Night by erinn06012 featuring leopard print jewelry

I love the lace shorts for the summer.  Because I love them so much I want to wear them all the time.  Here are some ideas on how to make your shorts day and night.  I paired them with flats, a fitted Tee, and a bigger bag for running around town, shopping or just hanging out.  To take these shorts to night just add heels, a clutch, and a satin top.  Very classy.  Because the shorts are a nuetral color they could really be paired with any top you like.  I really like the black lace shorts as well.  Try it out. 

-E

Cool and Classy

c

Shorts: Express, old (similar); Shirt: Banana Rebublic Outlet (similar); Shoes: JCP, old (similar); Purse: Kate Landry old; Necklace: Original Erinicole Accessories (Here)

When the temperatures gets as high as it has been these past couple of days I hate wearing fitted clothes.  I knew I was going to be in and out a lot today so I decided to wear something loose and cool.  I paired a loose top with baggy shorts.  I would not often think to do this, but on days 100 degree days it is worth it.  Because both of my pieces are loose I tucked the top into my shorts and made sure I belted it.  You could also cinch the shirt to make sure your waistline shows and you don’t feel like you are wearing pajamas.  I also added a sock bun to keep my hair off my neck.  This is slowly becoming my favorite hair style as the temperatures continue to rise.  With this look I was able to get work done and go out to dinner (outside) and not get over heated or feel underdressed.  Try this look and tell me how it was. 

-E

No Equipment Needed

Often times, like many of you, I have a busy day and I know getting my gear ready and heading to the gym will take up precious time, so instead of skipping a workout, I try to do one at home. I just completed this circuit the other day while I had dinner in the oven.   It took me approximately 30 minutes.  If I would have gone to the gym I would have been gone almost an hour and dinner would still have to be made.  The quadruple lunges are a killer.  I was sore the next day.  I was so happy when I finished this work out because I know how missing one workout turns into two.  Working out at home can be very beneficial to staying on track to reach your goals.  Keep it up.

-E

Beating the Heat with ICED Coffee

For many of us we like to drink coffee in the morning to inject a little caffeine into our system, or like to savior the flavor in the afternoon.  Well, when it is summer and temperatures have risen an iced coffee sounds a little more enticing.  With prices soaring and the sugar content out of your hands I have the perfect Healthy choice to your iced coffee problem.  I brew my coffee (decaf in afternoon) pour over fat free milk, 1 scoop of chocolate protein, 1 tsp of sugar free coffee creamer, and ice.  I shake it up and ready to drink.  Here is the label break down:  35 g protein, 15 g sugar, 4 g fat, and 200 calories.  This makes for a great afternoon snack and pick me up.  I also found this article from HuffingtonPost on Iced Coffee.  It was an interesting read with a couple more options.  Try it out and let me know how you like it. 

-E

Short Shorts Workout



Shoes: Express, Shorts: Old Navy, Shirt: JCP

I will be going to the gym to work on legs and back.



Leg Press: 4 sets, 10-12 reps

Lat pull down: 4 sets, 10-12 reps

Step ups with weights: 4 sets, 10-12 reps

Cable Rows: 4 sets, 10-12 reps

One legged lungs: 4 sets, 10-12 reps

Assisted pull ups: 4 sets, 10-12 reps



Rest for 1 minute between each set. This will increase your heart rate and add cardio to your lifting. If you have some extra time complete 20 minutes of HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). I like using the stair climber. I usually set it for 17 minutes, which makes each interval 1 minute long. 1 minute should be at a fast rate, which you are breathing heavily. For the other 1 minute it is more of a cool down to get your heart rate lower, then back up again. Here is an article at Women's Health for more information. You may use a treadmill, elliptical, stair climber, or outside. Choose your poison.



Remember by the last set you should be struggling to reach 10. If not you need to add more weight. Don't be afraid ladies, you will get toned not bulky.  Happy Lifting.

-E

Summer Leopard

I love all the summer colors and combining them in different ways.  You really can’t go wrong or mess it up.  If you like it, wear it.  I combined coral, yellow, and turquoise in this outfit.  When I first put it on I thought something was missing so I naturally went to my leopard belt.  This is a staple for me.  Leopard is definitely my neutral.  I often go to these pieces to add the final touches to my outfit.  You can never go wrong with Leopard.  My shorts are linen and they are great for this hot weather.  I also like them because I often have trouble finding pants and shorts to fit my waist and leg combination.  Linen tends to stretch out when worn so they end up fitting nicely around my legs.  I purchased my shorts and tank from the GAP outlet.  Together they were $20.  The belt is old (Kohl’s on Clarence), but I will give you some similar options, here, here, and here.  Clutch is Kate Landry, last season on sale at Dillard’s.  I also have on a leopard print necklace from Forever 21, (similar here) over my other coral and gold necklace also from Forever 21 (here and similar here).  I love the look of layered pieces, clothes and jewelry.  Bangles are from Forever 21 (similar here).  Turquoise bracelet is a necklace original from Erinicole, here.

I will be posting my work out later today and many more outfits are planned.  Work hard and look good.

-E

A Little of Everything

The past week has been horrible for me and my friend gym.  We haven't seen each other in a while.  Yesterday was my first day back and I always do legs when this happens.  So, today I need to catch up the rest of the body.  Here is a workout you can do for your total body.  Rest for only 30 sec- 1 min between each set to increase your heart rate.  With a couple of these under my belt I will be right back into it again and can focus on individual body parts. 

Barbell front squat with press  4 sets 8-10 reps (or until failure)

Super Set these exercises: 4 sets 8-10 reps or until failure

weighted step ups/ Burpees

Kettlebell swings / 3 minutes of jump rope

woodchopper  4 sets 12 reps each side

I know it won't be easy, but it will be worth it.

-E

More of a Good Thing

Today I went online shopping!!! You can find some great deals. I purchased all these items above from Express.com. Each item ended up being under $25 because there is an additional 20% off reduced merchandise. I love when I find a great deal, however some of the items may be seasonal so you don't want to get something too trendy. I suggest going with neutral colors so they can take you into the fall or layer the shirts in winter. During the summer pair them with bright colors either with accessories or a top/bottom. 

If you are like me and are a little hesitant to shop online because you didn’t know if the piece will actually fit me when it arrives, I have found a solution for you.  Buy the same item in 2 different sizes and return one.  This works best when return shipping is paid for or you can return it to the store.  Make sure you read the return policy first.  This is also great when you receive free shipping at a certain price point because buying more than one item will get you there faster.  I hope these tips help and you find your "good thing".

-E

Treasure Hunting

Right to Left, top to bottom:  Wristlet, Leopard Tights, Blue Tights, Black Dress, Leopard Flats, Navy Flats, Yellow Top, Yellow Wristlet

If you are like me you love to shop year round, and love to get GREAT deals.  If you are year round shoppers then it is most likely you will be able to find the best deals.  When you pass by the clearance rack of your favorite stores it often looks disheveled and  discouraging because you will not need those items at the time, but if you look ahead like I do some of these items will be used in just a couple of months.  Right now is a great time to stock up on times for fall and winter.  When shopping for Fall and Winter in the Summer look for “classic” items you know you will wear, even in a year.  Buy items in neutral colors like black, tan, grey, and red. The best departments to shop are, intimates, accessories, and shoes (boots), but still browse the clothing section as well.  You never know what you will find.  Just yesterday I was at Kohl’s and decided to browse the intimate department.  I found tights on sale for 90% off.  They turned out to be $1.90.    Online shopping is great too, but you often get better deals when you go into the store.  Looking at the clearance rack of your favorite department stores can seem like a treasure hunt, but when you find the one item you defiantly feel like a winner.  And the best feeling is when the weather starts to get cooler you have new items in your closet.  Here are some clearance finds all under $20.

-E

Summer Staple: LBS



Shirt: Forever 21; Shorts: Express (old), similar: Here; Bracelets: Forever 21 (old), Similar: Here; Shoes: Gianni Bini (old), Similar: Here; Purse: B. Makowsky (old), Similar: Here; Necklace: Erinicole Accessories.

Every summer I seem to pull my little black shorts out of the closet, again, and support them with my newest summer top.  This summer is no different.  They are the staple of my summer wardrobe.  I wear them with everything, flats, wedges, heals, t-shirts…you name it.  Every girls needs a pair of go to shorts in their closet.  I got mine from Express a couple years ago, actually, a long time ago and they are still holding up.  I recently added these to my closet, as well.  LBS are a great way to show off your hard work at the gym.  I have recently been completing this leg workout, from Amanda Latona, to make sure my legs are summer ready. 

I dare you to try.

-E

Working It Out

This summer I am embarking on a new adventure.  I have decided to share my love of fashion and fitness with the world.  When you work hard in the gym you should be able to show off your assets in a fashionably, fun way.  I will give you my take on being fashionably fit and having fun while doing it.  I will be working out all the details of the blog in the next couple of days so you may see of items change while I am working it out. 

-E