DetroitDuchess, Author at Detroit Duchess

2016 Capsule Collection Part 2

August 29, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 3 Comments

I previously drafted my Capsule Collection Part 1 post with all of my must have clothing pieces; but the list wouldn’t be complete without some of my favorite accessories. I think capsule accessories are more fun to buy because you can really invest in getting nice pieces as they are more timeless. I don’t mind saving up for a pair of diamond studs for example because you know you will wear them forever. With accessories you can take a cheap t-shirt and jeans from blah to fabulous at a moment’s notice. Here are my top accessory investment picks:

1. Black Pumps

You can buy black pumps anywhere, and I like to have at least five pairs in rotation at a time. Mostly because I am a hard walker and go through them quickly, but then you can get slightly different styles and heel heights and change it up a bit. I just snagged amazing Coach pumps at the outlet store for $50 with an original price of $200, so I would say I’m already crushing it for fall. I would love to add a designer pair to my collection like these Jimmy Choo Romy 100 Patent Leather Point-Toe Pumps ($575). I love the gold accent to the bottom as well.

2. Diamond Earrings ($1200)

I have been dying for a pair of real diamond studs and what is more timeless and classic than these pair from Tiffany?

3. Tom Ford Whitney Sunglasses ($450)

I was in love with these sunglasses the first time I saw Sarah Michelle Gellar wear a similar pair on Ringer (she wore the Charlie in case you were wondering). I just had to have them; and then my amazing husband surprised me with the similar Whitney version one Christmas. I’ve had them for a few years and no other pair will ever compare, they are just perfect.

4. Prada Bag ($2980)

I once had a real nylon Prada bag. I loved it. I carried it everywhere, until I left it unattended and it got stolen (let that be a warning to you ladies-this was many years ago). Ever since then, I have been dying to get another bag and it doesn’t help that Olivia Pope carries gorgeous Prada bags on almost every episode of Scandal. I just LOVE this version with the red interior, it is smashing!

5. Chanel Necklace ($1750)

I really fell in love with these watching Kate Walsh play Addison Montgomery on Private Practice. She would wear these all the time and they were stunning and elegant.

6. Tory Burch Reva Flats ($225)

I never wore flats before I broke my foot, but when I was forced to buy some these were at the top of my list.

7. Shinola Watch ($800)

I was so delighted to receive a Shinola watch in The Canfield 38mm Pink Watch. It is beautiful and elegant, a timeless piece that compliments any outfit.

8. Tory Burch Bombe Reva Black Leather Clutch ($275)

I’ve been eyeing this clutch for years. One of our friends has it and it is stunning in person.

9. Burberry Giant Check Cashmere Scarf ($435)

I’ve always wanted a classic Burberry cashmere scarf, but I think I would rather make it my own and go with the Ash Rose instead of the traditional camel. I would probably wear it a lot more in the winter as I typically wear a lot of dark colors.

10. Tiffany Amethyst Cocktail Ring ($1,200)

I remember when Tiffany was my client and this ring first came out. That was a number of years ago and it is still on my list. A fun cocktail ring should always be at hand and this one is so pretty.

11. Badgley Mischka Evening Shoes ($116.99)

You may be familiar with Badgley Mischka for wedding dresses, but they have the most beautiful evening shoes. Strappy evening sandals are a must have and these Badgley Mischka Lowry Sandals are perfect. My wedding shoes were Badgley Mischka and I danced the night away in them. Great quality for buying a designer pair of shoes.

12. Statement Necklace ($88)

I am IN LOVE with this Treasure Trove Brooch Necklace from Banana Republic! Statement necklaces are amazing and take a simple dress into a power look or evening attire. I love unique necklaces that reflect personal style.

13. Louis Vuitton Luggage ($4,000)

So I would never buy Louis Vuitton luggage that I was going to check (no way would I risk losing that). But a chic carry on may actually get me to pack light (HA! Who am I kidding). This is the perfect size to carry on and is so glamorous!

14. Pearl Earrings ($225)

Pearl Earrings are a MUST. I love this classic pair from Tiffany & Co.’s Ziegfield Collection.

15. Chanel No. 5 ($100)

I sort of feel like you’ve arrived when you have a bottle of Chanel No. 5 available to wear at anytime. If it’s good enough for Marilyn Monroe you can’t go wrong…

What items are on your Capsule Collection accessories list?

For more fashion posts, click here.

Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: Accessories, Burberry, Capsule Collection, Chanel No. 5, Diamond Studs, fashion, jimmy choo, Pearl Earrings, Prada, Shinola Canfield, Tiffany & Co., Tom Ford Whitney, Tory Burch Reva

Wine of the Week: Failla Pinot Noir

August 24, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 9 Comments

I was thrilled when John and I stopped at random liquor store on the way to a party and I found a bottle of 2013 Failla Pinot Noir. I couldn’t believe my eyes, so I had to buy it and save it for later. When we visited Napa and Sonoma in 2012, we were introduced to Failla Wines (pronounced FAY-LA) as one of our first stops.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any pictures from that first stop as I was more interested in tasting the wine, but I will do my best to describe it to you. Failla is a small-family owned winery that’s been in operation since 1998. Ehren Jordan and his wife Anne-Marie Failla are the owners and winemakers.

Our wine tasting was outside at a picnic table and we also got to tour the wine cellars. It was so rustic and peaceful – I highly recommend it if you are visiting Sonoma. I found the above picture on their Facebook page and am guessing that it’s probably the same table we did our tasting at.

Our host told us that Failla was best known for its red wines and Pinot Noirs, which peaked my interested because those are my favorite. You normally can only get these wines by visiting Failla or through their mailing list. They recently launched a Wine Club. This is why I was so pumped to find it at that liquor store. Additionally, you can read more about the different varieties they have in this fact sheet.

This wine is BIG and BOLD. It has a lot of flavor and runs about $35. You’ll taste an earthy Pinot Noir with notes of cardamom, spices and fruit flavors. We enjoyed this over Chicken Parmesan and it was amazing paired with the sauce John made.

If you are in Sonoma, make sure to stop at Failla and if you see Failla around the metro Detroit area, let me know and I will head there to stock up!

For more Wine of the Week posts, click here.

Filed Under: Wine of the Week Tagged With: Failla, Pinot Noir, Red Wine, wine of the week

Bachelorette 12 – Week Two

August 8, 2016 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

We are officially into Season 12 with JoJo as our bachelorette. She can’t wait to start her journey with her dates this week. As she looks out over the balcony she wore the Express Slim Fit Convertible Sleeve Portofino Shirt ($49.90):

The first date was at a firefighter training camp, and as someone who is married to a former firefighter, it was pretty much the hottest date in Bachelor history. JoJo looked pretty fantastic in her turnout gear as well. Grant won the challenge (I would hope so as he is the actual firefighter) and got some special one-on-one time with JoJo during the cocktail portion of the date.

Poor Wells looked like he was dying during that group date, but it ended up earning him the rose so I don’t feel too bad for him. JoJo wore a sold out Jonathan Simkhai Cutout Cropped Turtleneck Sweater and Pencil Skirt and The Nudist Sandal from Stuart Weitzman ($398). This BCBGMaxAzria Anita Cold-Shoulder Sweater ($178) and Steve Madden Stecy ($79.95) are similar:

Derek got the one-on-one date with JoJo and she wore the Alice + Olivia Jacinda Crop Top ($87.98), sold out Free People Simply Sienna Cardigan, Gold & Grey Labradorite, River Stone & Bone Spike Necklace ($320) and the Kendra Scott Elisa Gold Pendant Necklace ($65). This Leith Tie Front Camisole ($48), Splendid Heathered Thermal Cardigan ($102.99) and Heather Hawkins La Boheme Necklace ($170) are similar looks for less:

For the evening portion of the date, Derek got the rose and JoJo wore the Dress the Population Patricia Open Back Sequin Mini Dress ($138):

On the second group date, JoJo and the boys had their run of ESPN’s Sports Nation. JoJo wore a sold-out Self Portrait Long-Sleeve Collared Lace Top, sold out Zara Biker Trousers with Zips, and the Aldo Women’s Bove Slouch Boot. To recreate the look, I found this Michael Kors Skinny-Leg Zip-Pocket Pants ($125) and this Alice + Olivia Wylie Contrast Collar Sleeveless Lace Top ($225):

On the evening portion of the date, JoJo wore the sold out 3.1 Phillip Lim Cropped Fringe-Trim Pullover Sweater, Rag & Bone Leather Skinny Pants ($979), and Brooklyn Designs Chloe Pacific Opal Gold Earrings ($39). To recreate the look, try this Fun & Fringe Sweater ($10) and NYDJ Women’s Ami Super Skinny Leggings In Shimmer Ponte ($120 or less):

At the cocktail party JoJo wore a MacDuggal Dress in Style 4265. This Scala Illusion Side Scooped Back Dress ($378) is similar:

In the end, Brandon, James and Will were sent home.

What did you think about Week 2?

If you missed this episode you can still watch it here.

For more Bachelorette posts, click here.

Filed Under: Bachelorette, Fashion, TV Tagged With: Chris Harrison, fashion, Joelle Fletcher, JoJo, Jordan Rodgers, The Bachelorette

August 2016 Pinspired

August 8, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 6 Comments

Since we have passed the halfway point for summer, I thought I would share one more really fun summer look. I have a few events coming up and thought this Pinterest look would be perfect to take out for a summer evening event. It would be easy to throw a blazer on during the workday and take it off for an evening look. I found the original pin here.

I found this Leith Stretch Crepe Tank Dress ($68) as a fun dress that would easily work for day or night: I found this Leith Stretch Crepe Tank Dress ($68) as a fun dress that would easily work for day or night:

I absolutely LOVE this Kenneth Jay Lane Golden Hammered Link Chain Necklace ($87.50). Diane always wore this style on one of my TV favorites, The Good Wife.
I found these Anne Klein Chain Faux Pearl Stud Earrings ($32) that complement the necklace:

For the bangles, I liked these Kate Spade Stack Attack Bangles ($78)

For the shoes, I think my Splurge vs. Steal BCBGeneration Darron Pumps ($69.95) would be perfect!

I have a few ideas of where I could wear this classic number, I just love the crisp, elegant look of it.

For more Pinspired looks, click here.

Filed Under: Fashion, Pinspired Tagged With: fashion, pinspired, Pinterest

Summer 2016 Favorites

July 30, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 6 Comments

It’s time for my 2016 summer favorites! Here are a few of my favorite things this summer:

Printed Pleat Front Top ($24.97)

I LOVE lemons and this top is so adorable!

Victoria’s Secret Bombshell Eau de Parfum ($52)

I read an article a while back about how Victoria’s Secret Bombshell was effective at repelling mosquitoes and was blown away! Check out this article to see for yourself. It beats some of the leading repellents and still smells amazing. Why would you wear anything else this summer?

Kate Spade Solana Palm Tree Sandal ($198)

I love these sandals, they look like little palm trees! How fun would these be at a resort or on the beach?

CND Vinylux in Pink Bikini

I love collecting new polish colors each season and who doesn’t love a fun pink for summer.

Sleeveless Knit Maxi by Ellos ($34.99)

I love this look, especially with the hat!

Marc Jacobs Aviator Sunglasses ($130)

I’ve had a pair of aviators on my list for a long time now. I think they would look super swank for summer.

Coconut and Vanilla Bean Yankee Candle ($15.99)

I love both these scents so together they make a winning combination that is perfect for summer!

Cold Shoulder Flounce Top ($58)

I love how fun this is for a summer outing. Light and sexy.

Sprinkle Donut Pool Float ($19.95)

I bought this for myself to hang out on the water and it was perfect. The best way to enjoy a day on the water.

NY&C Drawstring Dolman Romper ($21.47)

I love the look of this comfy romper, it looks great for lounging around in.

What are your favorite things for summer?

You can also check out my Summer 2015, Summer 2014, and Summer 2013 Favorites.

Filed Under: Beauty, Fashion Tagged With: beauty, fashion, summer, summer favorites

Bachelorette 12 – Week One

July 18, 2016 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

The Bachelorette is back and I couldn’t be more excited to dive into this season. I am thrilled that JoJo is the Bachelorette this season because I think she is stunning and love her personal style. She starts her journey by meeting with some of the previous Bachelorettes, Ali, Kaitlyn, and Desiree. JoJo wore a sold out Blue Life Romper and Steve Madden Ladee Boot ($59.99). This Nasty Gal Floral to Ceiling Plunging Romper ($68) is similar:

Des wore an Adelyn Rae Tassle Tie Waist Dress ($54.50). This Supreme Jersey Tied Waist V Neck Dress ($68) is similar with more size options:

Ali wore a Felicity & Coco Woven Maxi Dress ($98):

Kaitlyn wore the Navy And Ivory Striped Barcelona Cami from Express (only available in store). This Lauren Ralph Lauren Striped V-Neck Tank Top ($39.99) has a similar style:

As JoJo is getting ready for night one, you get a peek at her Badgley Mischka Cascade II heels ($245):

As she applies her makeup you can also see her Jaimie Gellar Jewelry Chamaeleo Ring ($5914). This Floral Patina Cocktail Ring ($8) is similar:

JoJo wore the Fall 2014 Randi Rahm Diamond Gown to meet her bachelors. I thought this Lauren Ralph Lauren Sequin Mesh Gown ($280) recreated the look for less:

JoJo had a fun night, giving her first impression rose and kiss to Jordan Rodgers. Unfortunately, Coley, Jake, Jonathan, Nick S., Peter, and Sal weren’t so lucky and got sent home.

Who are your favorites so far?

If you missed this episode you can still watch it here.

For more Bachelorette posts, click here.

Filed Under: Bachelorette, Fashion, TV Tagged With: Chris Harrison, fashion, Joelle Fletcher, JoJo, Jordan Rodgers, The Bachelorette

Sport Sabourin: One Year Later

July 16, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 6 Comments

It’s been a year since we adopted our Cocker Spaniel, Sport and everyday with him has been a joy. We’ve had an amazing year and I wanted to share some of our favorite highlights along the way. From the day we brought him home, we fell in love with his sweet face. We blew this picture up and have it hanging in our bedroom.

On Halloween, Sport couldn’t decide if he would rather have tricks or treats. This video cracks me up so I had to share:

Sport blends into our couch and I can’t tell you how many times one of us has walked through the living room and asked “Where’s Sport?” only to find him laying on the couch.

During Christmas he was such a hoot – I had purchased a few things for him to open on Christmas and put them in the guest room to wrap up. He knew there was something in there for him, so he sat outside the door.

In January, we discovered Sport’s super cute pouty lip:

Later that month, he was a trooper when he had to get his shots:

In February, Sport turned 4 and we celebrated with presents and a special doggie birthday cake:

One of his presents was a treat tower which he loves:

On Fat Tuesday, Sport enjoyed a donut and a Busy Bone:

On Valentine’s Day, Sport got his sloppy kisses and puppy love toys.

Since then puppy love has been Sport’s favorite toy. He carries it around like it’s his prized possession.

Most of the time Sport is very tired:

But he does love a car ride:

Sport loves his squeaker toys and carrying around the little squeakers (don’t worry, he doesn’t chew them, after stops the squeaking he likes to carry them around and hide them).

In any case, we can’t get enough of this face:

So for our one year anniversary, we’ve decided to treat our boy to his very own monthly BarkBox. I can’t wait to see what fun treats he gets each month. I’m planning to share each month’s box and link to his favorite treats and toys. If you would like to try one for yourself, you can click the link here and use the code “SPORT” to get a free Barkbox for your pup and Sport gets a free box added on to his account.

I’m creating a new Sport category on the blog, so if you would like to read more about our sweet little boy, click here.

Filed Under: Sport Tagged With: BarkBox, Cocker Spaniel, Dog, Sport, Sport Sabourin

Happy Third Blogiversary

July 6, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 10 Comments

It’s time to celebrate my third blogiversary! This blog has always been a fun outlet for me to share some of my favorite things. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading over the past few years as much as I’ve enjoyed writing. Thank you to everyone who’s stopped by to visit my little space on the internet.

You can read my second blogiversary post from last year here. I didn’t want to make a lot of promises this year except that I would like to invest in a camera so I can get some great pictures and as always to post a little more consistently. I would also like to hear what posts are your favorites and what you would like to see more of, so let me know in the comments. To celebrate, I’m kicking off my four week blogiversary giveaway below and have chosen some of the fun things I’ve featured in the past year to give away, so I hope you enter often. Good luck!

Blogiversary Giveaway

I’m giving away a month’s worth of prizes! Enter the giveaway below and each week I will choose another winner.

Week 1 – July 15

Remember when I got the Chambong? Well I loved it so much I wanted to make sure that my readers had the chance to try one out themselves. Here is my original post that details what it is and how to use it.

Week 2 – July 29

I recently featured the Tiffany T Bracelet in my Splurge vs. Steal series. I love the steal I picked out for it and decided I would give one away to one of you so you can rock it like the real thing.

Week 3 – August 5

I loved these Pineapple Pearl Pop Earrings so much that I wrote a whole post for them. After Prep Obsessed saw the post they sent me a pair of my very own. For Week 3, I will do the same for one lucky reader!

Week 4 – August 12

I wrote a post sharing all my Beauty Favorites for a Long Day and wanted to give one lucky winner their very own Still Standing Spray. Be prepared to dance the night away in heels at your next event.

Make sure to enter the giveaway early and often for your chance to win four weeks of prizes!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Blogiversary, Chambong, Detroit Duchess, Giveaway

Five on Friday: Bring on the Bubbly

June 10, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 3 Comments

For this week’s Five on Friday I thought I would share a few things I have been eyeing lately:

1. Express Bring on the Bubbly Tee ($19.90)

This shirt is so me! I couldn’t even wait to finish this post to get it.

2. Adrianna Papell Pleated Tulle Midi Skirt ($169)

I love the look of this tulle skirt. I fell like you could have so much fun with it. They also have it at Dillard’s in some additional sizes.

3. Kendra Scott Lyle Hand Chain ($75)

I love Kendra Scott and this hand chain is so fun and different for summer.

4. Do Not Disturb Straw Hat ($40)

I love the size of this hat because I need a wide brim to protect my fair skin from the sun.

5. Rachel Roy Draped Sheath Dress ($82.99-$119)

I am loving this dress and it comes in blue, pink and yellow! It would definitely hide a multitude of flaws.

What things are you admiring lately?

For more Five on Friday/Friday Favorites posts, click here.

If you would like to join the Five on Friday with A Liz Adventures, The Good Life Blog, Hello Happiness and Carolina Charm just click the button below for more details.

You can join the Oh Hey Friday Linkup with The Farmer’s Wife and September Farm just click the button below for more details.

I am also participating in the Friday Favorites Linkup with A Little Bit of Everything Blog, Grace and Love Blog and Momfessionals. You can click the button below for more information and to join the linkup.

Filed Under: Fashion, Five on Friday Tagged With: fashion, Five on Friday, Friday Favorites, Kendra Scott

Five on Friday: Lace Up Trend

May 6, 2016 by DetroitDuchess 1 Comment

I’ve been inspired lately by a few fun lace up trends so I figured I would combine them all into a Five on Friday post.

1. Christian Siriano Women’s Juliette Ghillie Pointed Pump ($34.99)

I love that these are at such a reasonable price at Payless. They are really cute and totally on trend.

2. Floral Lace-Up Ruffle Fit And Flare Dress ($40.99)

I loved this little dress – It is so floral and feminine; perfect for spring.

3. Lauren Jeans Co. Lace-Up Knit Tunic ($115)

I feel like this is a summer staple. I’ve seen similar tunics on plenty of TV shows in the past and I feel like this is a timeless and versatile piece.

4. Mossimo Nara Lace up Ballet Flats ($24.99)

One of my students has these shoes and I just adore them! They look great in person and a lot more expensive than they are.

5. Venus Lace Up Ruffle Top ($34)

This is really cute and a darling combination with the ruffles and the laces.

Do you have any awesome lace up pieces I should add?