Pull a Pound with 4ocean

Lately I’ve found myself more interested in supporting products that are doing good in the world. I decided that I want to seek out more products that are helping causes or sustainable. One of our most vital resources, the ocean, has a huge collection of plastic floating around. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is 600,000 square miles equivalent to twice the size of Texas.

According to 4ocean, an estimated 16 billion pounds of plastic enter the ocean each year. This trash can have a devastating effect on marine life not to mention the damage that degrading plastic will do to the environment in the long term. 4ocean ounders Alex an Andrew created a piece of jewelry that helps clean up trash from the ocean. This video explains how they have turned saving the ocean into a business.

I was so moved by their mission. Every bracelet they sell pulls a pound of trash from the ocean! One full pound! For just $20 you can help remove a pound of trash from the ocean and get a cute bracelet. They have pulled nearly 2 million pounds of trash from the ocean in less than two years and they also employee 150 employees. They’ve worked to clean coastlines in 27 countries already.

Every month 4ocean highlights a special cause and creates a limited edition bracelet for it. I ordered the two pack including the signature bracelet and the limited edition polar bear bracelet. For the polar bear bracelet, 4ocean partnered with Polar Bears International and Carbonfund.org to help protect polar bears and conserve the sea ice they depend on for survival. Other causes they’ve contributed to include whales, manatees, sharks, sea turtles, and the coral reef.

4ocean also has a monthly subscription allowing you to get the limited bracelet for just $20 each month. By the end of the year you will have helped pull 12 pounds of trash from the ocean! I think these would make excellent gifts or stocking stuffers.

What color/cause bracelets are your favorites?

Find more fashion posts here.




Five on Friday: Kendra Scott comes to Michigan

For this week’s Five on Friday, I wanted to share five reasons to get pumped about Michigan’s first Kendra Scott boutique at Twelve Oaks Mall. I was running through the mall a few weeks ago to pick up some Olaplex at Sephora and was surprised to see a brand new Kendra Scott boutique! Imagine my excitement! They took it up a notch by handing me a glass of champagne as soon as I stepped foot in the store.

Here are a few things you should know about shopping at the new boutique:

1. Kendra Gives Back

If you have a cause that you are passionate about supporting, you can work with Kendra Scott to host a fundraising event. They will provide the treats and you can invite all of your friends to shop. Kendra Scott will donate 20% of the proceeds to your cause.

2. Kendra offers 50% off on your birthday

During your birthday month, Kendra Scott offers a 50% discount off of one item. All you have to do is show your ID. The clerk told me that I should also have my husband shop for me during his birthday month to take advantage of the discount twice! What a great idea! I have my eye on this Harlow Statement Necklace In Blush Pearl that retails at $225.

3. Customize your own look with Kendra’s Color Bar

You can create your own look right in the store! I made these awesome Danielle Earrings with the gold filigree.

4. Elisa Necklace

Kendra’s favorite piece of all time is the Elisa Necklace. I like this iridescent drusy version.

5. $500

Kendra started her business with just $500. She opened her first business, Hat Box, at 19 years old. You can read more about her in this Forbes article.

What are your favorite Kendra Scott pieces?

You can find all my previous Five on Friday posts here.




Fall 2018 Favorites

I’m really not ready for fall this year, I was just starting to get into the swing of summer and really enjoy it and BOOM fall. One of my mottos is Fake it Till You Make it which applies here so I will just start talking about fall and getting all my fall items and then the excitement will follow. I already have a few easy favorites to share with you on my annual list.

Fergalicious Rattle Peep Toe Bootie ($44.99)

I had a similar pair on my year last year but never ended up getting them. I bit the bullet and bought these and they are SO cute! I have a really wide width and have a hard time finding shoes to fit when they encase your whole foot, but these work really well. They are a great transition from sandals and wedges into fall.

CND Dreamcatcher ($10.50)

I’m loving this new color from the CND Wild Earth Collection. It’s a fun purpley pink color.

Twist Back Sweater ($54.99)

I love the sexy twist detail on this sweater for fall. It’s like the mullet of sweaters – business in the front and party in the back.

Pumpkin Coconut Candle ($24.50)

This is a Bath & Body Works online exclusive, but talk about a great transition from summer to fall! the fragrance includes Spiced Pumpkin, Toasted Coconut, Creamy Vanilla, and Sea Salted Caramel.

The Jean Jacket in Pinter Wash ($118)

I’m not sure how I don’t already have a jean jacket, but ever since I saw this one on Meghan Markle, I had to have it. It’s a great way to take those summer dress and tanks into fall.

Thea Lace Chandeliers ($49)

These caught my eye the first time I saw them, so elegant. They also have a matching cuff.

Calvin Klein Bell-Sleeve Sheath Dress ($100.50)

I came across this while running through the mall the other day and WOW! I tried it on and it is now on my fall wish list. The color is fantastic. Lately, I’ve been having a love affair with Calvin Klein dresses, they are so stylish.

Exuberate Slingback Pumps ($69.99)

Another great shoe for transitions, I am loving the detail on this slingback!

Pumpkin 24K Gold Sheet Mask ($8)

Pumpkin and gold in one mask? Where do I sign up?

Charlie Carryall 28 In Signature Rose Print ($295)

This is so me! I love anything with a feminine detail and these flowers just make the bag!

Addy Versatile Poncho ($89)

Who knew Stella and Dot had clothing? I am living for this poncho that you can also turn into a cardigan! When I saw that I couldn’t believe it – two pieces in one has my vote!

Lily Knit Back Midi Coat ($125)

I am loving the idea of a camel coat for fall and I like the oversized look of this one. This is one piece I don’t already have and think it could be really versatile.

Sexual Chocolate

This really is the perfect fall wine.

Boone Cocktail Ring ($75)

I am obsessed with this Kendra Scott ring! I have tried it on twice and can’t wait to get it!

Drink Up Witches Stemless Wine Glass ($1.99)

I’m already getting into the Halloween spirit and thought it would be fun to enjoy my wine in one of these cute glasses.

Expert in Your Zeal A-Line Dress in Plaid ($79)

I love wearing dresses and hate wearing pants, so I love fall dresses that you can add a pair of tights or leggings too. This would look really cute with my new booties too!

What’s on your list for fall?

You can stock up on all my previous fall favorites for 2017201620152014, and 2013 if you want to take a look back.




September Pinspired: Back to School

I LOVE going back to school…except I no longer get to do it…boo hoo. The excitement of a new backpack, schedule, trapper keeper, planner, folders, all the things used to get me so jazzed! I couldn’t wait to start all over again. I am trying to channel that back to school energy into my professional life and thought what better way to do it then to invest in a “back to school/work” outfit.

I have a tendency to wear a lot of dresses at work because they are easy, comfortable and versatile. Throw in some tights and all of your summer dresses work for fall and winter too! Then I came to the realization that I don’t have a lot of work pant outfits and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to change it up with a new look. I found a winner here. This outfit is the perfect mix of comfort and style. with our new dress for your day policy I struggle to find something that isn’t so much more dressed up than everyone else, but also isn’t too casual for me. I’ve seen all my coworkers sporting these dusters (hello early 2000’s) and figured that I can throw some yoga pants on when I get home and be set.

I’m starting with the hardest thing first, the pants. I settled on the Gap Skinny Ankle Pants ($32.97) that look casual but still dressy for work.

Ann Taylor had a great Drapey Cami ($59.50) that is perfect for layering:

Madewell’s Kent Cardigan Sweater ($98) looks almost too cozy for work!

The best part of this outfit may be the shoes and these Steve Madden Daisie Pumps ($99.98) are very sexy:

It’s a little different than the photo, but I’ve been coveting the Stella & Dot Rebel Pendant ($79) for years and it would look great with this ensemble.

In true Elizabeth fashion, I spent the most time looking for the perfect bag. It’s a little different than the picture but I just LOVED the detail on the Nine West Aury Tote ($99):

I cannot wait to get this look in my closet for fall! What are your favorite fall combinations?

For more Pinspired looks click here.




Splurge vs. Steal: Chanel Classic Handbag

From the first time I saw Charlotte (Kristin Davis) clutch her Chanel bag on Sex and the City I was hooked! Every girl needs one of her own, but with the $5,900 price tag, it’s not something I am going to get for a while. Instead, I wanted to find a great dupe while I work on my Chanel fund. It’s not hard to find a wide range of celebrities with Chanel bags – they are timeless, especially the classic bag.

So you might notice that the Chanel bag currently sports the interlocking CC logo as the lock, but the original bags had what they call the “mademoiselle lock.” Karl Lagerfeld added the logo lock in the 80s, so my dupe today could actually look more vintage. The Chanel Classic Large Handbag costs a cool $5,900. I also never realized that the bags have a burgundy leather lining and it was chosen specifically by Coco Chanel because she wore a uniform of the same color in the orphanage where she grew up. I found a great steal from Jollque with their Women’s Chain Quilted PU Leather Shoulder Bag ($35.80).

I think this is a fantastic alternative for $35.80 if you are saving up to invest in a real Chanel bag. With this price point, there’s really no reason not to scoop it up. In any case, this bag is the ultimate in classic looks and can dress up any outfit.

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 the Chanel Classic Handbag.

For more Splurge vs. Steal posts, click here.




July Pinspired: Patriotic Pride

I love themed looks and nothing is more fun than the Fourth of July for a red, white and blue look. I’ve always loved the fourth, because it is so close to my birthday and it was my grandmother’s birthday. Not to mention celebrating this crazy nations’s independence with fireworks, family and all the food! I stumbled across this adorable dress on Pinterest from When Gal Meets Glam and wanted to recreate her style.

I couldn’t find a similar red and white striped dress, but I did find the sweetest Melrose Sleeveless Checked Fit & Flare Dress from JCPenney!

On the flip side, I found a blue and white striped Nine West Striped Belted A-Line Dress from Macy’s:

I figured I would share some red and blue shoe options so you could accent your dress with the opposite. For the red shoe, these Charles by Charles David Lizzie Wedge Espadrilles are simple with a little pop of color:

For the blue option, these Lace Up Espadrille Wedges from Loft are so feminine!

I am definitely not a minimalist and love a statement piece, so these Callisto Drop Earrings from BaubleBar are the perfect accessory to top off the look – they look like fireworks!

What are your favorite looks for the 4th?

For more Pinspired looks click here.




Bachelorette 14 – Becca Kufrin

Becca went through a lot during Arie’s season of The Bachelor and it can’t be fun to see your former fiance gallivanting all over the world with the girl he dumped you for and proposed to quickly after. But in true ABC fashion, she’s going to try her hand at televised love. Don’t get me wrong, I love this show and I especially love when it works out but I think I would be in a “to hell with you all” sort of mood after the televised breakup. But the money could be anywhere from $30,000 to $200,000 and I’m guessing it’s closer to the latter, especially if she knew how to negotiate. Full steam ahead people, Becca’s official promo clip and pictures are here…and she’s ready to “do the damn thing.”

The song in her promo is Kesha’s Woman, which I have since downloaded and am obsessed with. The unedited version is much better than the one they use in the promo.

Becca wore a Tom Ford One-Shoulder Side-Slit Fitted Evening Gown ($5,990), paired with Massimo Matteo Open Toe Unicorn Heels ($49.50), Dana Kemp earrings and spiral diamond ring and a Suzanne Kalan spiral ring. To recreate her look, I found this Christina Wu One Shoulder Sequin Bridesmaid Gown, which comes in rose gold, for $197.99 and this Pandora ROSE Entwined Ring ($17.50). Her shoes are affordable and still available!

Bachelorette Makeup Artist, Gina Modica posted all of her tips for getting Becca’s look for this shot:

They include one of my favorites! Temptu’s Silksphere Airpod Foundation in rose beige ($45)

As a highlighter she used Armani’s Beauty Fluide Embelliseur #11 ($62)

Kat Von D’s Sacred Heart and Crucifix from the Saint and Sinner Palatte ($148.97)

Her cheeks are flushed with the very popular Nars’ Orgasm Blush ($30):

MAC Pro Longwear Lip Pencil in Staunchly Stylish ($17.85):

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Lustre Lip Gloss in Blondie ($22):

Amazing Concealer ($28):

The Balm Cosmetics Furrowcious ($13):

ABC took some additional promo shots like this one which is more casual:

In this picture, Becca wears the Madewell Whisper Cotton V-Neck Pocket Tee ($19.50), Hudson Collin Skinny Jeans ($210) and the Shoedazzle Donatella Buckle Strap Pumps ($62.95):

I found these great Express Slingback Pumps ($41.94) that are a great dupe for the Donatella pumps which are only available in silver now.

Are you ready to join Becca on her journey for love? (See I could be Chris Harrison) You never know, this could be the most “dramatic” season ever!

For more Bachelorette posts, click here.

Meghan Markle and Madewell

I am obsessed with all thing Meghan Markle of late and cannot wait for the Royal Wedding. Her style is so effortless chic and she always looks put together. One of her favorite brands pre-Harry is Madewell. Many of their pieces have been featured throughout her now defunct Instagram account and I thought I would share a few of her favorites here and maybe try to find some lookalikes.

Madewell x Biltmore® Panama Hat ($58)

I have been dying to get a fedora like this and Meghan makes it look so good. Since her Madewell version is sold out, you can try this Cuyana Panama Hat made in Ecuador for $85:

UPDATE! The original Madewell Biltmore hat is back in stock here! Due to demand it takes a while to get them, mine was backordered and it should be here any day. 

Madewell Crisscross Sightseer Sandals (sold out)

Meghan highlighted these sandals in an Instagram post from July 2015 (does anyone else miss her IG?). The original sandals are sold out, but it looks like Madewell has put out an updated version with these Boardwalk Quarter Strap Sandals ($59.50).

Madewell Jean Jacket in Pinter Wash ($118)

Here is one piece that is actually still available! Meghan wore this out in Toronto last April and you can get it in pretty much any size!

Madewell Arielle D’orsay Flats (sold out)

Meghan took this photo when she collaborated with Birchbox on her blog, The Tig. She is also wearing her panama hat here. How sweet is little Guy there? I found these Sam Edelman Olive D’Orsay Flats ($100) which are a perfect match.

Madewell CityGuide Scarf (sold out)

Meghan first shared the Madewelll CityGuide Scarf on her blog, The Tig, in a travel essentials post. It has since sold out, but I found some really cool ones on RedBubble, especially this Detroit one for $26.

Do you have any great Madewell finds? Meghan has definitely peaked my interest in this brand.

For more Meghan Markle posts, click here.




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.




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