Cool and Classy

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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

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

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