Start Your Story with Trollbeads

Disclosure: I received sample products from Trollbeads in exchange for this post. All opinions expressed are my own.

Last month, I had the unique pleasure of attending a special event at the Trollbeads store, where I got to meet some of the Trollbeads artisans and learn how they make the beads. I left with an appreciation of just how unique each bead is. In case you were wondering, they call the creation of a bead and the glass work they do “lamping” or “lampwork.” Ana Pagan was our dedicated artist and she let me take a short video to watch one of her creations.

I even got to make my own bead with her help! I think it turned out beautifully and it gave me much more of an appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each of these beads.

One of the cool things about this event, is that I got to meet a lot of other Trollbeads “collectors.” Being new to Trollbeads, I didn’t know very much about all the fun collections and limited edition beads that are offered by Trollbeads. Collectors come out to these events to stock up on the newest beads and continuously add to their stash. It was so fun to see some of the creations they made. Most of them brought a bag of goodies with them so I could see some of their favorite beads that they were looking to match for.

There were two limited edition pieces (that are still available) when I visited the store. The first was the Shimmer Royal bead ($55). This was the official “Black Friday” bead and I ended up purchasing this one for myself because it was so beautiful.

I also saw this picture on their website and I LOVE how they styled it with the gold. I wouldn’t have thought about that. Now I can recreate it for myself!

The other limited edition piece was the Wishful Sky Bracelet ($109) for the holidays. This was a great deal, because you get a bracelet, clasp, spacer and bead for a great price. If you haven’t started your Trollbeads collection yet, this is the perfect way to jump in. Once you get the bracelet you can really mix and match.

Here you can see a little behind the scenes of the making of the Wishful Sky bracelet:

Some of the other fun pieces that caught my eye were the Stackable Jewelry Case ($24), which would be perfect to store beads and swap them out for different designs or for traveling.

I paired the Delicate Pearl Ring ($65) and the Snow Bubble Ring ($65) for this fun look:

I also FELL IN LOVE with this adorable Elephant Bead ($35). It’s definitely next on my list:

If you’re interested in starting your Trollbeads collection, visit the store at Twelve Oaks Mall and mention DetroitDuchess for 10% off your order. Make sure to post a picture of what you get! If you are a Trollbeads “collector” or fan, I would love to hear how you got started.

For more fashion posts, click here.




Bachelor 22 – Week 1

Calling all Bachelor fans! Grab your wine and get ready for another season full of drama and roses! Let’s take a journey five years back to the past, when Emily Maynard’s season aired. My girlfriends and I watched this religiously and following along with Emily’s fashion was one of the reasons I started this blog and wanted to recap Bachelor fashion. I was stunned when she picked Jef over Arie as he was our favorite for her. We were shocked when he didn’t get the Bachelor nod and it went to Sean Lowe instead. But flash forward five years and Arie finally gets his chance and we will follow along and see if he ends up like Sean and Catherine or falls victim to the Bachelor curse like the rest of the couples.

Most of the women this season probably thought they were coming to meet Peter, but as Peter turned down the opportunity (don’t worry we will see him again in the Winter Games show) they will instead get to know Arie.

First up is Chelsea, the token single mom who is looking to find love again. She wore a cute gray off-the-shoulder ruffle top in her intro and I found this Ruffled Off-The-Shoulder Blouse from Neiman Marcus ($69) to recreate her look:

Seeing Kendall and all her dead animals reminds me of Kirk from Ali’s season, wasn’t his dad a taxidermist – is he still single because these two might be a match! Her necklace also reminded me of the Leona from Robyn Rhodes ($99):

Marikh seems to have an eclectic background as a restaurant owner who has also dabbled in social media marketing, a short animated documentary film, pageants and as a model. I liked her lantern sleeve dress and found this similar Ann Taylor Lantern Sleeve Flare Dress ($79.88):

Now that we’ve met a few of the ladies, on to our favorite looks from the limo entrances. First up is Chelsea, who wore iEENA for Mac Duggal style 25403i ($338):

Kendall shows up nervous wearing a slinky pink plunging, high-slit very grecian-esque dress. It might be this SHEIN Plunging Surplice Front Crisscross High Slit Cami Dress ($24):

I LOVED that Sienne brought Arie elephant cufflinks – that gets high marks in my book. Sienne wore the Yani Gown from NBD ($238) and mentioned on her Instagram that she had two necklaces that were both from Gorjana. I’m guessing one was the Chloe Mini Necklace ($55):

Tia wore a stunning green color and this Beaded Halter Neck Gown from MacDuggal ($338) is a dead ringer for her dress:

Bibiana is up next with another green dress. I loved the color on her. I found two similar dresses in this AMUR Sally Gown ($548) or this La Femme Strappy Ruched Bodice Gown ($298):

Jenny wore the hot pink Millbury Gown from Likely ($296.40) which you can also rent for $70 here. This Aidan Aidan Plunging Cutout Gown ($245) is similar and has more size options:

Jacqueline wore The Reformation Sophia Gown ($428) which only has a multicolor version available. I found this similar Dress the Population Iris Dress ($288):

Krystal wore the Jovani Open-Back Prom Dress with Ruffled Bustle and Train ($378) which was just stunning. I loved the business in front, party in the back style of this dress. This dress from JJ’s House is an exact replica and is only $96.99 if you want the look for less:

Jenna Cooper’s bright blue cutout dress might be my favorite. I just love that color! I found this similar Jill Stuart Cutout Crepe Gown ($298) to recreate her look:

Jessica wore this Nicholas Georgette Wrap Dress ($417). I found this similar Aiden Aiden Ruffle Trim Gown ($171.50):

Marikh wore the Josette by Abyss by Abby lace one sleeve dress ($192). This Cut Out Lace Long Dress ($44.99) or this XSCAPE One-Shoulder Lace Gown ($249) are similar:

Becca wore a sold out Vici Total Eclipse Lace Applique Maxi Dress. I found a number of similar dresses and figured I would share them all. First is the Lace Bodice Gown from Tadashi Shoji ($428), the second is the Lace & Jersey Gown from Morgan & Co. ($90), the third is the Tadashi Shoji Illusion Lace-Bodice Gown ($408) and the fourth is the Embellished Gown from Morgan & Co. ($108):

Lauren S. wore the sold out Reformation Rosella dress. This Frankie Velvet Cut Out Bow Midi Dress ($16) is similar:

Lauren J. wore the Solace London Piper Gown (for rent $75) and Jennifer Miller Faux Emerald Teardrop Earrings ($120). I thought this Halston Heritage Tie-Back Cut Out Gown ($375) was similar:

Ashley wore the Vegas Midi Dress from Nookie ($299). This ASTR Francesca Dress ($116) is similar:

Brittany T. wore the Hello Molly Golden Child Midi Dress ($66). It’s very va va voom and reminds me of Dolce & Gabbana. This Extraordinary Love Lace Midi Dress ($64) can get you the look if you still want the dress in black.

Lauren B. and Ali wore the same Sherri Hill Sequin Silver Prom Dress ($698). Let’s not mention Ali’s horrible pit stop joke – he should have kicked her out right there.

Annaliese went full kissing bandit in a ABS Allen Schwartz Women’s Plunging Neckline Gown With Shoulder Cut Out ($332.75):

Maquel had a fantastic entrance and looked beautiful. She wore a Sherri Hill Prom Dress ($468). This Halter Overlay Evening Dress by Cinderella Divine ($99) is similar:

And there you have it – these are my top picks from night one! I can’t wait to see what happens next this season, it looks like we are shaping up for a lot of drama.

Which dresses were your favorites?

For more Bachelor posts, click here.




Pantone’s Color of the Year: Ultra Violet

“We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination. It is this kind of creative inspiration that is indigenous to PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet, a blue-based purple that takes our awareness and potential to a higher level. From exploring new technologies and the greater galaxy, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection, intuitive Ultra Violet lights the way to what is yet to come.”

-Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute

I am so excited about Pantone’s choice for the 2018 color of the year! I can have a lot of fun with Ultra Violet.

I love that Ultra Violet stands for non-conformity and has been associated with mindfulness practices. I may have to incorporate it in my Miracle Morning meditation. The New York Times also wrote a great overview on how we’ve already incorporated this color into our lives. Here are a few ways to incorporate Ultra Violet into your environment:

Salame Jewelry Designs Amethyst Lariat Necklace ($98)

This amethyst necklace set is stunning. Did you know that the Greeks believed that amethysts could protect them from intoxication? Something to think about for your next night on the town.

Fold-Over Card Holder ($16.90)

This is nice if you just want to incorporate some purple into your wardrobe but don’t want to spend a lot of money on a new bag.

Dot Grid Bullet Journal ($16)

This would be a great journal for The Miracle Morning!

Sam Edelman Women’s Hazel Suede High Heel Pumps ($72)

I love this color and the idea of pairing these with an all black outfit for a pop of color.

Farberware Colorvive Cookie Pan ($11.99)

After going nuts with Christmas cookies last month, I realized that I could use some new cookie sheets and this is so fun!

MAC Parfait Amour Eyeshadow ($16)

This is one of my favorite eyeshadow colors for a night out on the town. Just a little on the eyelid takes it up a notch.

Anne Klein Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress ($88.99)

This is one of my favorite cuts and it just looks so stunning with the color!

Quartz Bottle Stopper ($12.99)

These are always necessary when you need to keep your champagne chilled in between pours.

Bright Solids Sherpa Decorative Throw Blanket ($22.22)

I like the idea of a throw because you can change up any look easily depending on your mood. I am a firm believer that you can never have enough throws.

OPI Do You Have This Color in Stock-holm? ($10.50)

Purple is so fun, especially for the summer months. You can also find the gel version here.

Manduka Pro Lite Yoga Mat ($82)

I love my Manduka mat – it is absolutely worth the price in my opinion. Mine is a teal color and I wish they would have had this color when I bought it.

INC Mock-Neck Cutout Sheer-Sleeve Sweater ($69.50)

I love all the fun details of this sweater – the cut outs, the sleeves, the color.

Gold Dipped Amethyst Cluster ($22)

How perfect is this little gem? All you have to do is mist the plant every now and then and that’s it. I could probably get away without killing this one.

Michael Kors Sadie Large Top-Zip Satchel ($238.80)

I love the detail on this bag. I also love a purple handbag, I carried the last one I had until it literally was no more.

Ray-Ban Original Aviators ($178)

These would be so great for summer! How have I not purchased a pair of aviators yet?

Keyhole Ruffle-Sleeve Sweater ($35.99)

I was trying to wrap this post up when I stumbled across this, which I know is similar to the first one, but I still love them both!

Have you spotted any Ultra Violet items that I should add?

You can also check out my post about the 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.




Win Passes to see Fifty Shades Freed!

It’s almost Valentine’s Day and you know what that means…time for Fifty Shades! The trilogy is coming to an end with the third movie, Fifty Shades Freed. The Fifty Shades series is a fun, guilty pleasure of mine and I can’t wait to see how they wrap up the series on film. One of my biggest complaints from the third book was that E.L. James crammed so much in and sped through the ending. She definitely could have made it two books. I’m interested to see how they handle it in the film. The trailer looks awesome, so I’m excited:

If you would like to join me for the advance screening of Fifty Shades Freed on Wednesday, February 7 at 7 p.m. at the MJR Grand Digital Cinema Troy, please enter the giveaway at the end of this post. I will be drawing 20 winners throughout the week. Winners will each be allowed one guest.

As I write this I’m currently watching the first movie and rereading the books. If you want to take a look back you can see my recap of 50 Shades Darker. I can’t wait to recap Fifty Shades Freed! Here are a few things to get you in the mood for the final installment of Fifty Shades:

Darker ($12.76)

E.L. James just came out with a new book, Darker, which is 50 Shades Darker from Christian’s point of view. I can’t wait to read this! I loved reading Grey and seeing the story from a different perspective. I hope she will do Freed from Christian’s POV too.

Ana’s Wedding Dress

Monique Lhuillier is the designer responsible for Ana’s wedding dress which I’m sure you’ll see trending in the upcoming wedding season.

Fifty Shades Freed Soundtrack

This won’t be available until February 9, but you can bet that it will be fantastic. I have all of the other soundtracks and they definitely don’t disappoint. Here is a little peak of For You with Liam Payne and Rita Ora:

Ray-Ban Dark Havana Sunglasses RB 2180 ($153)

In the trailer, there’s a great shot of Anastasia lowering her sunglasses to check out her new husband. You can get the same Ray-Ban specs for your next sexy vacation.

Yellow Bikini 

Anastasia wears a skimpy yellow bikini on her honeymoon with Christian. You can get the look with this Venus Triangle Top ($24) and String Side Bikini Bottom ($21):

Now that you’re in the mood for Fifty Shades Free, enter here for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the advance screening on Wednesday, February 7 at 7 p.m. at the at the MJR Grand Digital Cinema Troy. I will be announcing winners throughout the week and will email you the details:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more movie posts and recaps, click here.




Winter 2018 Favorites

Ladies, I have all the things to help you get through the winter tundra and into spring. If we can’t get to a warmer climate, we can at least snuggle up with cozy materials and pamper ourselves until the sun comes out again. Here are my current winter favorites.

Rib Trim Pocket Open Cardigan ($54.99)

I am OBSESSED with this cardigan and if you come to my house you can catch me wearing it 24/7. This was a Black Friday purchase and it is even better than the one I got last year because it has pockets and it is SO cozy! You can hibernate in it all winter long.

CND Vinylux in Winter Glow ($10.50)

My cousin wore this to a Christmas event and I just loved it! It’s a perfect color for the professional woman (she’s a lawyer). You can get the Shellac version here.

Crochet Inset Heel Boots ($34.79)

In the winter, I transition many of my everyday dresses to winter wear with tights and boots. I have one pair of nice dress boots that I wear all the time and definitely need another pair so they don’t get worn out from trudging through the snow. I thought these boots with the inset were so cute!

Saltopia Himalayan Salt Lamp ($39.95)

John and I got one of these for our bedroom. They are known to have therapeutic benefits for colds, skin problems, respiratory issues, headaches, mental health disorders and more. There is a light inside the lamp that which heats up the salt crystals so they attract the water molecules in the air to form a NaCl and H20 solution. Long story short, they create a negative ion which seeks out positive ions like dust or bacteria to clear it from the air.

 

Shimmer Tie Cuff Sweater ($44.99)

This was also a Black Friday purchase and it is so cute and comfy. The sleeves add a nice touch and it is easy to wear.

CND Cucumber Heel Therapy ($49.90)

I’m always on the hunt for the best foot cream and apparently I’ve been missing out on one of the best. But it doesn’t surprise me that it’s from CND. If you apply this every evening to your dry, cracked heels you won’t believe how fast the calluses disappear! Foot cream is my jam in the winter so you are ready to slip your feet into sandals the moment the weather changes.

Ruffle Arm Warmer ($20.99)

These were also a Black Friday purchase, but they had them in a camel color. I actually am a little bummed they didn’t have them in the pink because I would have gotten those instead. I’ve received lots of compliments on these.

Thro Pattie Pineapple Throw ($23.99)

My cousin gifted this to me as a hostess gift when she stayed with us over the summer. I am in love with it! I love all things pineapple and this throw is so soft and cozy… Sport is currently trying to steal it from me.

Pearlized Button Slit Cuff Sweater Dress ($119.99)

I’m sort of obsessed with sleeves right now and I love the feminine sleeves on this dress. Plus purple is so fun for winter.

LAURA MERCIER Crème Brûlée Honey Bath ($45)

I’m really into bubble baths lately but I need hot water and LOTS of bubbles. I also need it to smell divine. Winter is the perfect time for hibernating in a luxurious creme brulee bubble bath to moisturize your skin. You can follow your bath up with the accompanying creme brulee souffle body creme.

Ribbon Woven Tassel Necklace ($60)

I love this whole look! I’ve been looking a long silver necklace to go with dresses, tunics and sweaters. This is so edgy and would be fun to wear for a variety of different occasions.

Campfire Donut Candle ($10)

I used this during the holidays and loved the smell. You know it’s going to be good when donut is in the name!

What are your favorite things for winter?

You can also check out my Winter 2016Winter 2015Winter 2014 and Winter 2013 Favorites.




November Pinspired: Peplum Party

I was perusing Pinterest for some fun looks to recreate and stumbled across this peplum look paired with jeans. I always have such a hard time figuring out what to wear for family parties and events or running out to meet the girls for lunch or dinner and just rotate the same few outfits. The problem is when everyone takes pictures and I am wearing the same outfit again…whoops. So I loved this look and thought it would be perfect for the weekend. You can find the original pin here.

For the top, I found two great options. The first is the CeCe Cold-Shoulder Peplum Top ($59). The color is a little different, but I liked the cold-shoulder take on this.

I also liked this IMNYC Isaac Mizrahi Boat Neck Asymmetric Peplum Top ($69). I have a peplum dress from Isaac Mizrahi and love it so I hope this shirt is just as nice. The asymmetrical cut is fun.

I liked these Mid-Rise Easy Jeggings from the Gap ($54):

These Greene Foldover Boots ($85) have a little heel and some character:

I thought this Charlize Statement Necklace ($30) was gorgeous and a great replica of the Pinterest photo:

For the red top, I thought this Davina Filigree necklace ($15) might be a little more neutral:

Where would you wear this look?

For more Pinspired looks, click here.




Fall 2017 Favorites

It’s fall y’all! The weather has started to cool down here in Michigan and I’m finally ready to break out some fall stuff. Goodbye summer maxi dresses – hello leggings!

Faux Fur Vest ($180)

I’m pretty sure I have something similar on my list every year but I haven’t bit the bullet yet and ordered it. I just keep thinking about how soft and cozy this would be – I need to get on it this year.

OPI Less is Norse ($10.50)

I’m a little obsessed with OPI’s collection releases and I love the video for the new Icelandic Collection. I’m going with Less is Norse for my fall favorite, but I do like Turn On The Northern Lights and Reykjavik Has All The Hot Spots too.

Twist Front Cozy Fleece Pullover ($49)

I’m sort of in love with the cut of this top and by how many color options are available. Just having “cozy” in the name screams fall.

Petite Herkimer Quartz Necklace ($74)

Salame Jewelry Designs are my favorite and this little stunner just came up in my feed the other day. I love how dainty it is. According to the description “Quartz in its natural raw form is perfect for keeping positive energy flowing.”

Flare Sleeve Sheath Dress ($139)

This reminded me of this old Pinspired post – it would be the perfect dress to mix and match with. It would also be a great dress to pair with my red pumps (which are on sale btw).

Lash Split Shaft Bootie ($159.95)

I’m missing some cute booties from my wardrobe and these ones from Kristin Cavallari are darling! A good reason to use those Nordstrom Notes!

Zella Live-In High Waist Leggings ($65)

I’ve found the answer to my leather leggings problem. Not that you even knew I had a problem, but I just can’t pull off the leather leggings look. Plus I’m mostly afraid of getting into a Ross’ leather pants situation a la Friends. So these Zella leggings in Black Laminate are the perfect solution. They have a cool sheen/glimmer to them that would be perfect for a night out without the embarrassing baby powder/lotion situation (if you haven’t seen this episode watch it immediately).

Mini Tassel Earrings ($34.50)

These are super duper cute! Tassels are just fun.

Water Resistant Trench Cape ($168)

I could have used this all last week – this is so chic I can’t even stand it! Very Olivia Pope…

Cinnamon Pretzel Twist Candle ($22.50)

OMG! This is the holy grail of candles – It smells like a Cinnabon store.

Merino Blend 2-in-1 Sweater ($98)

This looks super cozy. I like that it is a cowl style, but not low cut where my girls are hanging out.

Michael Kors Lena Large Shoulder Bag ($178.80)

I love this aubergine color or as they call it here “damson.” I really need more of a hobo bag to haul all my stuff around.

Relaxed Cross-Strap Tunic for Women ($18)

Speaking of that color – it is hot for fall and I love it on this tunic from Old Navy. You can’t beat the price and you can wear it with leggings!

Hunter Over-the-Knee Lace Up Boot ($53.40)

Avenue is pretty much my favorite place to buy boots. Great prices and they work on my wide calf every time! These are so different than anything else I’ve seen out there and I love them!

Splendid Dirt – Nutrient Mud Mask with Organic Pumpkin Puree ($23)

Oprah is a big fan of the FarmHouse Fresh Brands and I love their Whoopie Pie Lotion. I’m a huge fan of any mask that “will seriously de-gunk and help purify even the most congested skin.”

What are your favorites for fall?

You can stock up on all my previous fall favorites for 201620152014, and 2013 if you want to take a look back.



Every Story Has a Bead

Disclosure: I received sample products from Trollbeads in exchange for this post. All opinions expressed are my own.

A few Saturdays ago, I hosted a party at the Trollbeads store in Twelve Oaks Mall. Trollbeads only has seven storefront locations in the United States and Michigan is lucky to have one of them.

I didn’t know a lot about Trollbeads before the event, but after six hours in the store, I feel like I’m an expert! I love that every piece is so unique an each customer can create something that expresses their individual personality.

Trollbeads was founded in 1976 in Copenhagen, Denmark. In Denmark the word “troll” is used to refer to all mythical creatures. The first Trollbead, Faces, included six troll faces as you turn the bead and is still part of the collection today:

I had a lot of creating all of my own pieces at the event, one of my favorite looks was this tiara. There are so many fun and different ways you could adorn this. This would be great for a wedding, shower or any special event.

I’ve talked about upping my bangle game before and I just loved these gold bangles and could have a lot of fun creating a stack of them.

I also did a silver stack and I just adore the butterfly stoppers on these bangles. In the silver you have three different choices of bracelets, the bangle, the twisted bangle and the traditional foxtail bracelet:

I tried my hand at creating a pendant necklace. Some of the beads were so unique and beautiful.

They also had this pendant on display in the store and I thought the combination was beautiful:

I ended up leaving with my very own foxtail bracelet and my first “Unique” bead:

If you’re interested in starting your Trollbeads collection, visit the store at Twelve Oaks Mall and mention DetroitDuchess for 10% off your order. Make sure to post a picture of what you get!

For more fashion posts, click here.



Five on Friday: All Things Pineapple

I am in love with all things pineapple right now! This post is my love letter to all of the awesome pineapple things I’m loving at the moment.

1.Vince Camuto Maro Faux Leather Tote ($88.80)

This tote was the catalyst for today’s post. I’m pretty much in love with it…and it’s on sale too!

2. colada pineapple vase-planter ($6.95)

I am giving this adorable pineapple planter away to one lucky reader…make sure to enter here!

3. Pineapple Stone Necklace ($19.99)

These are dainty and perfect for a little touch of summer to an otherwise boring outfit. Plus they come in rose gold, silver and gold so you have options.

4. Sass & Belle Exclusive Rose Gold Pineapple Money Pot ($29)

I sort of have a thing for piggy banks. I have a ton of different ones and even got a bride and groom set when we were saving for the wedding, so when I saw this one I had to add it to my collection.

5. Chelsea Peers Rose Gold Pineapple Pajama Set ($56)

I’ve died and gone to heaven with these pineapple pajamas! I literally can’t even contain my excitement about them. They are perfect in every way.

I could probably write five more of these just about pineapples so I will stop here, but I would love for you to comment with your favorite pineapple item. If I get enough of them I will do a Part 2!

For more Five on Friday posts, click here.

If you would like to join the Five on Friday with Smidge of ThisHello Happiness and Carolina Charm 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.

Friday Favorites

I’m adding a new Friday Favorites Linkup with Lizzie in Lace to replace Oh Hey Friday, which is no more (sadness).



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