DetroitDuchess, Author at Detroit Duchess

Hustlers Review & Giveaway

September 13, 2019 by DetroitDuchess 5 Comments

Disclosure: I received complimentary passes to the screening in exchange for this post. Scroll down for your chance to win some Hustlers promotional items.

I took a sneak peak at Hustlers this week and thoroughly enjoyed the movie, based on the real life story from Jessica Pressler’s New York article “The Hustlers at Scores,” I was anticipating Jennifer Lopez’s performance in this movie because it is not every day that you see a 49-year-old woman crushing a pole dance for millions of people. I have been in awe of JLO’s work ethic for a long time and she is a huge inspiration to me!

I was completely fascinated by the story and thought it asked/commented on a lot of ethical gray areas especially for women in the sex industry. I did think it shone a light on the ups and downs of stripper life, where one moment it could be completely glamorous and powerful and the next horrible and demeaning.

JLo recently posted a video of how she prepared for her electric pole dancing scene in the movie. She’s got over a decade on me and is in amazing shape! Definitely #goals!

In honor of Hustlers, I’m doing a giveaway with some movie swag! You can win the prize pack pictured below (the sports bra and tank are mediums and the shorts are large). Enter below and tell me what you thought of JLO’s performance.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more movie posts, click here.

Filed Under: Movies Tagged With: Giveaway, Hustlers, Jennifer Lopez, movies

PERK Facial

August 27, 2019 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

I’ve previously mentioned how much I love Hydrafacials! They are pricey but SO worth it! The infrared light at the end just zaps all your acne away and leaves you with glowing skin. If I could get a full Hydrafacial every month I would…but there’s that pesky problem of how expensive it is. You can imagine how thrilled I was last year when Sephora started offering PERK facials, a lighter version of the Hydrafacial.

Sephora’s PERK Hydrating Facial is the store’s first spa grade treatment which is SO exciting! I have loved getting Sephora services for years because instead of paying for makeup application or services you can buy product. I don’t know of a better deal – you get the service AND products to take home. The PERK Hydrating Facial requires a minimum $75 purchase. Since I’ve been using Olaplex it’s been pretty easy to meet that minimum on something I was planning to get anyways. Most months you need to replenish skincare or foundation so it’s a win-win.

You can book your service directly on the Sephora app and the service only takes about 30 minutes. The PERK facial is a two-step process, the first step is a nourishing solution that exfoliates the skin. This is the part that sucks all the impurities (dirt, grime, makeup, etc.) from your skin. The second step features a hydrating, soothing, and brightening serum to moisturize the skin.

Once you’re finished, you get to see all the gunk they sucked out of your skin. Then the consultant applies serum, moisturizer, and eye cream base on your skin type. It’s a fun way to try a bunch of different products.

I am super picky about getting facials – you have to be careful who you let perform extractions on your face. The best part about the PERK facial is that it’s standardized. The consultant doesn’t to any extractions and they really can’t mess it up. I still prefer the regular Hydrafacial, but I definitely am not getting one every month. The PERK facial is much more affordable and you would be buying the product anyways.

I still use my Personal Microderm (PMD) once a week, but I usually skip it on the week that I get the PERK facial. Don’t forget that once you’re at Sephora you can get up to three free samples to take home with you on top of the products you get with your service.

I’ve seen a few articles mention Sephora doing a moisture test on your skin, but so far none of my PERK experiences have included that. I’m going to ask about it next time. It also sounds like some people take the pens home if there is anything left over, so I will have to ask about that too.

Have you tried the PERK facial yet? Let me know what you think!

For more Beauty posts, click here.

Filed Under: Beauty Tagged With: beauty, Perk, Sephora

Fitness Fashion

August 26, 2019 by DetroitDuchess 1 Comment

At the beginning of the year I wrote about my one little word, accomplish. One of the things I wanted to accomplish was establishing a more consistent workout routine. I’ve had a lot of starts and stops over the past few years and have been working hard to get consistent. One of the fun things I’ve been doing as part of my year of accomplishments is trying out some fun workout classes. So far I’ve tried out some kickboxing and Barre classes but I can’t wait to try more. The city I live in has a TON of different types of classes so I fully intend to try them all. What I am lacking in is cute workout clothes. I’m used to working out at home where nobody sees me so I definitely need to step up my outfits. I found a few things to keep me motivated for the next few weeks!

No Pain No Champagne ($16.99)

This is me in a tee! I am just doing this for the champagne, don’t let me fool you!

Zella Live In High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings ($59)

I am obsessed with Zella leggings, but these new ones are even better because they have pockets. Finally a place to put my phone instead of trying to stick it in my sports bra.

Heels Off Gloves On ($15.99)

This would be perfect for kickboxing…and it matches my pink boxing gloves!

Barre Socks ($12.99)

You need to wear special grippy socks for Barre classes and I loved these ombre ones.

Barre Hoppin‘ ($24.99)

I thought this shirt was cute for Barre class too.

Champion Spot Comfort® Sports Bra ($36.99)

I am in desperate need of some new sports bras. The girls are flying all over the place! What I discovered is that you have to search for “High-Impact Sports Bras” if you are doing cardio. Your walking sports bras are probably low or medium intensity and are not meant to secure the ladies when you are jumping around. This is next on my test list, but I would love to hear more of your recommendations!

Workin’ on My Fitness ($14.98)

If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I LOVE a graphic tee! Literally the one thing I can’t resist! Fabletics has some cute ones.

Nike Cortez Sneakers ($69.95)

So we know Meghan Markle is a fan of the Cortez shoes which means I need a pair! Meghan has the red logo ones, but I decided on the black ones instead.

Rise and Slay ($14.98)

Any self-respecting Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan needs this one…if only it came with Giles as your personal trainer.

I Don’t Sweat, I Sparkle Gym Towel ($9.31)

These classes kick my butt and I sweat a ton, so a sweat towel is necessary…especially in a barre or yoga class where you can’t have a slippery mat. Who knew that Etsy was the place to go for really cute gym towels?!

I would love to hear more tips on how you stay motivated to go to the gym and if you have any favorite workout gear. Let me know in the comments.

Filed Under: Be the Best You, Fashion, Fitness Tagged With: Be the Best You, fashion, fitness, Meghan Markle

Summer 2019 Favorites

July 22, 2019 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

I am living for summer vacation right now! There are so many fun things to see and do this year and I’m just taking it all in. I’ve been spending lots of time with my niece and we’re really hitting that summer bucket list. John and I have also been going to lots of fun events so I’ve had to freshen up my summer look with a few new pieces.

J Crew Striped and Solid Tassel Earrings ($19.99)

I saw this on a random pop up and couldn’t believe how cute they were! I thought they would look perfect with the wrap dress I mention below.

Tory Burch Miller Flip Flop ($198)

I was lucky enough to get these beauties for my birthday and they are 100% worth it! I have been wearing them almost daily!

City Chic Costa Rica One Piece ($65.40)

This is the cutest bathing suit I’ve ever owned. I was really nervous ordering a suit online but was thrilled with the results. I feel really comfortable in this suit and highly recommend it!

Leaf Ring ($14.90)

Another great ring find from Express. I love how dainty it looks!

EMMA Beauty A List I Insist ($9.95)

I am loving this color from EMMA’s South Beach Collection. I was recently introduced to EMMA and I love how they sell the gel together with the regular polish as I like to bring my own colors to the salon or sometimes do them at home.

Navy So Fancy Crochet Fit & Flare Dress ($95)

I got this dress for an event and have ended up wearing it a number of times so far this summer. It is SO flattering and I’ve received tons of compliments on it! It’s now my favorite dress.

Hot Fudge Sundae Candle ($12.50)

I’m a sucker for a chocolate smelling candle! Don’t forget the sprinkles!

Striped Classic Button-up Shirt in Cotton Poplin ($19.50)

What an awesome find! This shirt screams Meghan Markle and I need to get an outfit together STAT!

Shiraleah Carmen Clutch ($48)

I AM OBSESSED! This little clutch is a summer must have!

LOFT Short Sleeve Wrap Dress ($59.99)

I purchased this for an event and have already worn it a ton! It is one of the most versatile dresses I’ve ever owned!

Legend of Lido Rays of Aloe Clutch ($89)

Meghan Markle shared this clutch on her Instagram page in 2016. Legend of Lido was founded by her friend Benita Litt and she’s carried a few of them over the years.

Palm Leaf Kimono ($21.99)

This was a random Amazon purchase that turned out to be amazing! It looks WAY more expensive than it is.

What’s on your summer must-have list?

You can also check out my Summer 2017 Summer 2016, Summer 2015, Summer 2014, and Summer 2013 Favorites.

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

Find Your Inner Glamour with Glameselle

June 18, 2019 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

I’ve been meaning to write this post since Glameselle launched last year, because these products are amazing. But first I want to say how proud and excited I am that my friend, Shannon Lazovski (you may know her from Glamorous Moms) has her own line. This is an amazing accomplishment and she is just going to continue doing amazing things.

Glameselle started with a line of liquid matte lipsticks and has since released a line of luscious lipsticks. You can see the initial launch clip below with the local news station.

As soon as Glameselle launched, I purchased the Sasha Liquid Matte Lipstick, in my favorite bright pink color and wore it out to a holiday party. It stayed on ALL NIGHT LONG and didn’t dry out my lips like many of the other long wear products do. This is because they are infused with Vitamin E and avocado oil to help nourish and condition your lips while you wear the color.

When Glameselle released their new line of Luscious Lipsticks, I decided to add more to my collection and I purchased the Mara shade and got another Liquid Matte color in Bella.

Each of the lipsticks are named after a strong woman that has inspired Shannon over the years. It’s funny I don’t have a picture of me wearing Bella, because I wear that one almost every day. So much so that I used up my entire tube and had to order another one. When I put in the reorder, I added a tube of Livia to try out. Livia is named after Shannon’s daughter, which is a wonderful tribute.

In the above picture Livia is the top shade and Bella is at the bottom. It’s very rare that I use up an entire color product (not including foundation/skincare) so much so that I have to reorder it. I can name on one hand the items I have done that with, so you know these are great lipsticks. They’ve even inspired me to wear lipstick every day which is something I used to do but had gotten away from.

I can’t wait to collect them all! Next on my list is Adrianna Liquid Matte – a bright red that doesn’t quit. If you are looking for a long wear lipstick that delivers, Glameselle is the real deal. Let me know if you’ve tried it and what colors you’ve tested out.

For more Beauty posts, click here.

Filed Under: Beauty Tagged With: beauty, Glameselle, Liquid Matte Lipstick, Shannon Lazovski

Splurge vs. Steal: David Yurman Cable Collection X Bracelet

June 17, 2019 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

I have admired David Yurman’s Cable Collection bracelets for years. The first time I saw one was probably over a decade ago on a former boss. She was/is very stylish and always had fantastic jewelry, shoes, and bags. Over the years I’ve invested in some nice pieces, but I haven’t purchased anything from David Yurman yet. I thought wearing a David Yurman “steal” would help me make a decision on whether or not I should get one for myself.

The David Yurman X Bracelet from the Cable Collection is a cool $495. So if you wore it everyday for a year, it would only cost you about $1.37 a day (this is the only time math comes in handy, haha!). In case you’re on the fence about it, I stumbled across a great steal. UNY makes a number of great dupes for popular Yurman bracelets. This one is only $19.85 so it’s easy to try out the style and see if you like it.

David Yurman X Bracelet Splurge vs. Steal

Do you have a splurge that you want me to find a steal for? Let me know in the comments. Or let me know if you find another steal for David Yurman pieces. If you end up trying out the steal, I would love to hear what you think (and send me your pictures).

For more Splurge vs. Steal posts, click here.

Filed Under: Fashion, Splurge vs. Steal Tagged With: David Yurman, fashion, splurge vs. steal

Spring 2019 Favorites

June 3, 2019 by DetroitDuchess 4 Comments

I know spring technically began in March, but let’s be real people…this is Michigan and spring never starts on time. And thank goodness it finally came, because this girl is not meant for a forever winter. I just started breaking out the spring wardrobe AND the shoes…oh the shoes! In honor of spring finally making it to Michigan, here are some of my favorite things.

KUT from the Kloth Jacee Draped Moto Jacket ($88)

I purchased the cutest Calvin Klein pink moto jacket last year and have been wearing it nonstop this spring. It isn’t available anymore but I thought this KUT from the Kloth version is just as cute. It works great over any dress.

OPI Baby Take a Vow ($13)

I was inspired by Meghan Markle’s manicure in her first pictures with baby Archie. They haven’t announced what color she had on, but I thought this was a great match. I’m loving the nude look.

Lemon iPhone Case ($14.99)

One of my coworkers came in with the case, and I LOVE it for spring. I am a sucker for anything lemon.

Vince Camuto Kentvi Sandal ($52.48)

I feel like a broken record in this post, but I hit up the sales last year and got an adorable pair of Vince Camuto booties which are sadly unavailable now. I had them in the box for months just waiting for spring weather. Now I’ve been wearing them all the time with my spring dresses. These Kentvi Sandals from Nordstrom Rack are VERY similar to the ones I have.

Floral Lace Flare Dress ($99.50)

Hi I’m Elizabeth and I’m a dress person. You will very rarely see me wearing pants. I love how adorable this dress is!

Cubic Zirconia Flower Cocktail Ring ($39.90)

I purchased this ring on Black Friday and it has been the perfect spring addition, I’ve received lots of compliments on it already.

Supergoop! Invincible Setting Powder SPF 45 ($30)

I’m all for sun safety, but I hate making my face all goopy with a good sunscreen. This is a win-win AND you can rub a bit of the powder into your part line. I always get burnt on my scalp!

Straw Clutch ($78)

If I buy a clutch, it needs to at least fit my phone and a lipstick or gloss (I sometimes carry multiple). Some of the cute straw bags out there are weird sizes and have odd closures, but not this one. It is regular clutch size and comes in three different colors.

Waikiki Beach Coconut Candle ($14.50)

You guys know that I love my candles! This scent is the cheapest Hawaiian vacation I’ve ever heard of with tropical white coconut, saltwater breezes, sun-bleached woods.

Jo Malone Wild Bluebell Cologne ($68)

Meghan Markle shared this scent in an interview as one of her favorites in 2016 and I am hooked! It is so light and airy – perfect for everyday wear.

Metallic Pineapple Tee ($29.50)

I love all things pineapple and I could not resist this cute little t-shirt.

Greenroom Notebooks

I found these adorable notebooks at Target! They are perfect for lightening your mood.

What are your Spring favorites this year?

I still love my previous lists which you can view here: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015 and Spring 2014.

Filed Under: Beauty, Fashion Tagged With: fashion, Spring, Spring Favorites

What’s Better than Brunch?

April 26, 2019 by DetroitDuchess Leave a Comment

Disclosure: I received complimentary tickets to Royal Oak Brunch Bites. All opinions expressed are my own.

For today’s Five on Friday post, I thought I would share more information about one of my favorites events, Brunch Bites! This is an annual event that happens in Royal Oak and Chicago and is the perfect time to round up your gal pals for one super brunch!

Read to the bottom for a chance to win two tickets to tomorrow’s event. Here are a five things to know about the best event of the year!

What’s on the Menu?

Red Velvet and Buttermilk Pancakes, that’s what!

Can we Brunch all Day?

Yes, there are 12 restaurants on the menu, which means you get a food and drink offering at each location.

What Should I Wear?

Comfortable shoes because you will be walking and layers…this is Michigan after all. After that, all graphic tees are welcome! I have my eye on this one currently…

What is Brunch?

This is the very official Wikipedia definition: Brunch is a combination of breakfast and lunch eaten usually during the late morning to early afternoon, generally served from 10 a.m. up to 2 p.m., and regularly has some form of alcoholic drink (most usually champagne or a cocktail) served with it. The word is a portmanteau of breakfast and lunch. Brunch originated in England in the late 19th century and became popular in the United States in the 1930s. But mostly…

Where can I get Tickets?

You can buy them for $40/ticket here. Or you can win a pair from me by entering the giveaway below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Filed Under: Detroit Tagged With: Brunch Bites, Royal Oak

Pantone’s Color of the Year: Living Coral

April 8, 2019 by DetroitDuchess 2 Comments

I have SO much fun writing my Pantone Color of the Year posts each year. I was surprised by the choice of Living Coral this year, but the more I got into it, the more I realized it was just uplifting and actually making me happy thinking about surrounding myself with this color. In today’s world, we could all benefit from a little more joy in our lives.

All of the items below made me happy, so I hope adding them to your collection this year will bring you a little joy too!

4ocean Coral Reef Bracelet ($20)

I’ve talked about 4ocean and their amazing mission in past posts. They have a special edition Coral Reef Bracelet which is the perfect way to honor the real living coral.

The Piña Paws – Dogdana ($25)

You guys know how much I love my Sporty and Sport loves his bandanas! This was too cute and would look darling on our pup!

Kate Spade New York Women’s Bon Voyage Travel Journal ($20)

I adore traveling and this cute travel journal has a pocket for storing all your planning goodies, glue dots for attaching photos and pages with travel phrases, conversions and to-do sheets. This is perfect to plan out your travels this year.

Deny Designs Agate Cutting Board in Coral ($34.99)

I just love the design of the this board and the hubby cannot have enough cutting boards in our cupboards. This would make a darling cheese platter too!

V-Neck Flutter Sleeve Peplum Top ($69.50)

Peplum is the best for work attire! It is flowy and feminine in all the right places. I like the little sleeves attached to this too.

Dior Addict Lip Glow Color Reviving Lip Balm ($34)

I’m obsessed with the Dior Addict line of lip wear. I love their lipsticks, balms and glosses. They are so creamy and feel great on your lips, not sticky. In terms of lip color, I feel like coral is the perfect pop of color for a balm.

No Rain No Flowers Cooler Bag ($35)

I haven’t had a cute work lunch bag in a while (and let’s be honest, I could stand to bring my lunch to work more). This would also be adorable for a little picnic.

Swell Birds of Paradise Bottle ($35)

I love water bottles and the Swell ones are so nice. This has a slight hint of ombre to it, which makes me like it even more.

Ronni Nicole Short Sleeve Floral Lace Fit & Flare Dress ($39.88)

Who doesn’t love a fit and flare dress? This would be fantastic for work and I love the femininity of the lace.

Kendra Scott Edie Bracelet ($65)

A Kendra Scott bangle has always been on my list and I love how these are open so they can fit any wrist.

Bobbi Brown Coral Shimmer Blush ($32)

I love a shimmer blush and Bobbi Brown blushes last FOREVER!

Manduka Pro Lite Yoga Mat ($92)

I love my Manduka yoga pat, so this color in Illumination is the perfect way to brighten up your practice.

Kate Spade Sweet & Dry Stemless Wine Glasses ($25.99)

I’ve really taken to stemless wine glasses lately. I love these little novelty sets which are great for the fire pit or for when friends stop by.

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointy Toe Pump ($119.95)

Who doesn’t love a colorful pump? I’m pretty sure I’m working to get a pump in every color haha! I do have a few pairs of Same Edelman pumps that I love.

CND Vinylux in Tropix ($10.50)

This has been one of my favorites for a while and I featured it on my Spring Favorites list in 2014.

BP Circle Clutch ($28)

I could see myself carrying this little clutch all summer long. I love the little wooden ring detail!

Elan Cover-Up Maxi Dress ($68)

This is an ADORABLE cover up! I love how flowy it is and the halter look. Perfect for a day at the beach.

Rubina Beaded Tassel Earrings ($38)

These are the perfect spring/summer accent piece. I’ve been looking for a cute pair of tassel earrings and these fit the bill.

If you’ve spotted any Living Coral items let me know, I love this bright, happy color!

You can also check out my post about the 2018 color of the year, Ultra Violet, 2017 color of the year, Greenery, 2016 colors of the year, Rose Quartz & Serenity, 2015 color of the year, Marsala, and the 2014 color of the year, Radiant Orchid.