style

Spring Trend: Tie Dye

March 29, 2020

Even though we’re currently in quarantine, boutiques and popular stores are still selling online, and one trend that I’ve been very into is tie dye! From crop sweatshirts to sweatpants, I love the different tie dye looks and have found it to become sought after overnight. I recently found the perfect tie dye cropped sweatshirt on Amazon. It’s cute, cheap, and comes in different colors! See below.

I also found some other cute tie dye options in tops and bottoms that I think are worth checking out. See below!

Tie Dye Tops

Tie Dye Bottoms

Tie Dye Dresses

Tie Dye Swimsuits

Holiday Styles for All Occasions

November 21, 2019

holiday styles: top and skirt from Nordstrom's — Skirt from Nordstrom’s

Happy Holidays! I’ve been dreaming about pumpkin pie and Santa coming to town. If you’re like me, it can sometimes be hard to pick out the perfect attire to wear to different holiday functions. From Friendsgiving to being on a VIP list to something a little more formal, I have rounded up some holiday styles for all occasions.

Friendsgiving & Holiday Dinners

On the VIP List

A Little More Formal

What events are on your to-do this holiday season? Make sure to check out my Things to Do in Chicago posts for November and December for inspo!

Leopard Print Styles for Fall

September 10, 2019

It’s no secret that I love animal print, especially leopard print. I love it all year round, but especially love the leopard print styles that come out for fall each year! There are so many great items that are chic and cozy. I want them all! I’ve linked below my top leopard print styles for fall below.

Find my list of cute fall dresses under $50 here!

Tops

Cardigans

Skirts

Dresses

Rompers

Jumpsuits

Joggers

Shoes

Coats

Accessories

Online Discount Codes To Get You Ready for Summer

May 29, 2019

Ok, we all like to shop. But sometimes we need a little help towards our bank balance to buy the things we want while keeping a lower budget. Some of you have asked me for a list of all the online discount codes I possess through being an ambassador to certain shops or local events. Will it help me for you to use my code? Of course! But there’s also incentive of a discount for you. So it’s a win-win. See them all below and get excited for all my online discount codes to get you ready for #SummertimeChi!

KAVALA Collective

The newest ambassador partnership added to my list is KAVALA Collective! AKA the cutest, comfiest, softest, chic workout apparel sets I have ever seen or felt. Take a look for yourself at the picture above! Cute, right? They are also the softest workout crop and yoga leggings I have come across, and I’m not just saying that. The set I have, Byron, is also super high-waisted without an annoyingly tight waist band.

Use code AlyssaM15 for 15% off your purchase!

SeatGeek

Who loves going to concerts, sporting events, musicals, and comedy shows?? If so, you’ll love SeatGeek. On SeatGeek you can find millions of tickets for your desired event. Popular outings like a Cubs game, Ariana Grande concert, and Hamilton are just a few of the ticket offerings. Stock up and book up your summer!

Use code SWEATINGCHAMPAGNE for $20 off your first-time purchase!

MISSEE UK

MISSEE ships worldwide and has super cute apparel and accessories to browse. This crossbody bag (pictured above) is a perfect designer handbag dupe for a fraction of the cost. They also have great going-out and swim options to sport on the weekend. Check them out for yourself with a discount to add to your cart!

Use code SWEATINGCHAMP15 for 15% off your purchase!

Lively

Lively offers comfortable Leisurée – a mix between lingerie, active, and swim wear – for sizes 32A to 38DDD (XS-Size 3). My favorite item from Lively are their bralettes. I own two and they are seriously so satisfying to lounge in. Check them out for looking and feeling stylish while comfy!

Use code AMB-SweatingChampagne_ for $10 off your first purchase!

Night at the Zoo

Party with the animals this summer at this 21+ only event! Night at the Zoo will occur at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo and feature after-hour exhibits, DJ entertainment, games, giveaways, and food/beer/wine for purchase. Receive a discount on tickets when you use my designated link below!

No promo code needed. Use THIS LINK for a discount!

Maëlle Beauty

One of my favorite companies in the whole world is Maëlle Beauty. As a Maëlle Maker (ambassador) I have been able to go to some great Maëlle Beauty events here in Chicago and meet like-minded women. All Maëlle Beauty products are cruelty free and blue bunny approved. My favorite items are their Enchanted Eyeshadow Palette and new Matte Made in Heaven lipstick!

Use code Alyssa10 for $10 off your purchase!

Bring on summer! xo

Cute Activewear Sets from KAVALA Collective

May 14, 2019

KAVALA Collective

There’s nothing I love more than when something matches, especially when it comes to picking out an outfit. This includes activewear! I recently became an ambassador for KAVALA Collective – the cutest, comfiest, chicest, softest crop and legging sets ever – and had to share my love for this new found brand with you! Their sets are silky and a great addition to any closet.

Keep reading to learn more about this brand and get a special discount to use on your own purchase!

The Byron Set from KAVALA Collective

The set I am wearing from KAVALA Collective is their Byron set. This set, like all of their offered sets, features a crop and high-waisted leggings. I chose this pattern because of it’s unique neutral floral print – I mean, how many times can we actually say that brown flowers are cute?? I really liked how the Byron print enhanced my natural skin tone and gave a summer glow!

How Does It Fit?

Let’s be honest, we all have a little jiggle and enjoy the comfort of high-waisted pants. The style especially comes in handy when wearing a pair of yoga pants or leggings. KAVALA Collective leggings come in regular high and super high waisted styles – SCORE. The waistband isn’t too tight and is very comfy to lounge or workout in. I do recommend ordering a size up for both their crop and legging. I am wearing a Medium for the Byron legging and a Large for the Byron crop – a perfect fit. For those like me who are also lacking a little on top, the crop has soft padding for a little extra ump!

How Much Is a Set?

While items from KAVALA Collective are not the cheapest, you are paying for quality material and a unique look. It’s worth it, in my opinion, for a solid set or two that will last you a long time! You can buy this crop and legging, and any other items from KAVALA Collective, separately by themselves. I just chose to buy them together as a set. Crops are $58 or $64, depending on the pattern, and leggings are $98 each. Fortunately for you I have a special discount for just my followers to use.

Use promo code ‘AlyssaM15’ for 15% off your order!

Yellow Polka Dot Apparel Is In

May 9, 2019

I never thought I would say this. NEVER. But, yellow polka dot apparel is in. I have never been a polka dot girl, however lately I’ve been seeing yellow polka dot apparel popping up and I’m loving what I’m seeing. Read and view below for a roundup of yellow polka dot apparel that I’m currently diggin’.

Yellow Polka Dot Romper from JustFab

JustFab is a hit or miss for me. Their spring and summer items, however, have been on point. One of the items including this yellow polka dot romper! It has a belted waist and button down front. The only thing I wish is that it came in petite sizing!

Other Yellow Polka Dot Apparel I Like

I loved this polka dot romper so much that I decided to round up other yellow polka dot clothing I liked. Take a look below for a mix of dresses, jumpsuits/rompers, and tops!

Yellow Polka Dot Dresses

I think my favorite items including yellow polka dots are the dresses. Whether casual or formal, designers have done a great job incorporating the print in a chic, classy style. View some of my favorites from popular retailers below!

Yellow Polka Dot Bottoms/Rompers/Jumpsuits

I really like these yellow polka dot jumpsuits. The rompers and bottoms are also crowd pleasers so I included some for your viewing. The jumpsuits, however, I think are really playful!

Yellow Polka Dot Tops

If you want a more subtle, chic way to wear yellow polka dots, I would go the top route. The manner of wearing the print in a top is less bold than a full dress or jumpsuit. Perfect if you’re still unsure about yellow polka dots and want to dip your toes in! View a quick roundup below.

So, what do you think of yellow polka dots? Will you be sporting them this spring and summer?

My Summer Hollister Outfit

May 1, 2019

Ok, so remember when Hollister was all the rage in middle school? Like you weren’t anybody unless you were living, breathing, and smelling like the signature perfume at every moment? I admit, I was one of those girls. And, surprisingly, still one of those girls today. Read more about my new Hollister summer outfit below!

A Rekindled Brand Loyalty

Hollister has done a great job adjusting their sizing and continuing to create fashionable ‘beach babe’ wear over the years. Not having their logo splashed across the front of every top, dress, and jacket has also helped to minimize the ‘middle school’ nostalgia and focus on the prints and silhouettes themselves. I recently took a chance and went on a Hollister shopping spree online.

My Hollister Outfit for Summer

Mid-Rise Denim Shorts

Hollister sizes are now similar to women’s sizing you would find at Express. This is my best comparison as I shop at Express a lot! I found their Advanced Stretch Mid-Rise Denim Shorts to be really cute, so I ordered two – Dark Destroy and Ripped White – in size 7. I am usually a size 6 in denim, so I figured a size 7 rather than a size 5 would be my best fit. I was right! The shorts fit PERFECT and have a really flattering shape. They are also currently on sale for under $30!!

Floral V-Neck Top

Staying true to their floral, boho chic style, I found the perfect v-neck top to pair with both denim shorts. The Woven V-Neck Top in ‘White Floral’ is airy, carefree and just the right amount of feminine. I purchased it in size Medium for a loose, not-too-tight fit to pair with a lace bralette underneath. It was just the summer top I was looking for!

My Thoughts on Hollister

It’s official. Hollister has made a grand comeback in my book and I can’t wait to see what else they come out with in the upcoming seasons. Since the shorts and floral v-neck top I have already purchased their twist-front t-shirt in two colors! What are your thoughts on the brand?

Easter Outfit 2019

April 12, 2019

It’s that time of year again! Birds are starting to chirp, grass is starting to grow, and Easter celebrations are upon us. Outfit wise, this is always a holiday that sneaks up on me. I am just getting done with St. Patrick’s Day when all of a sudden I’m trading in my emerald green for floral prints and jean jackets. Thankfully, there are some great picks from Nordstrom this year for Easter Dresses. See them linked below!

Easter Dresses

Each year Easter dresses are all about the florals and pastels. While I still love a good, true Easter look, this year I was also drawn to dresses that were bold, feminine, and moved well. It’s time to spice up Easter!

Easter Shoes

Trend alert: natural ‘cork’! I’ve been seeing a lot of heels and sandals with color selection ‘natural’, featuring cork-impersonation. While at first this made me turn my head to the side and ask why, however the style actually grew on me. They would make a perfect touch of detail for a spring dress!

Easter Accessories

An outfit is never complete without some type of accessory! See my top picks linked below to add to your Easter outfit this year including favorite handbags and head-wear.

My Easter 2019 Plans

Easter holiday is always a little different each year for my family. When we all lived in Illinois, it was custom to gather at my grandma’s house, or our house, to celebrate. Many family members have since moved away, however, so this year we’re sticking with visiting my family in the morning and Vince’s family in the afternoon! What are some of your Easter traditions?

My New Favorite Accessory | A Unique Wood Watch by JORD

February 1, 2019

With the new year, and new season, comes new style trends. My new interest has been watches! JORD watches are made from natural and largely re-claimed material. The pieces are modeled after a modern lifestyle for people who not only have somewhere to be, but have somewhere to go.

When I saw that JORD (pronounced Yord) had a watch made out of purpleheart wood, I instantly loved it. I’ve never seen a watch like the Frankie Purpleheart & Plum! This splash-proof, natural wood piece is so unique looking. The purpleheart wood featured in the band and the plum-colored face make the watch stand out as a chic, colorful addition to your outfit. I found putting the watch on and off by myself was super easy (we’ve all had a frustrating self-applying fiasco, am I right?). Compared to other watches I have seen, JORD watches use a deployment buckle with push buttons for easy application and removal.

If you have trouble finding watches that fit your wrist, as I usually do, custom sizing is for you. JORD offers size customization, including a very helpful measuring guide for size accuracy. I was thankfully able to use this to find the perfect size for my wrist. For me, this made all the difference! The watch fits as it should and came with some extra pieces incase I want to extend it.

Aside from sizing, JORD offers other fun customization options. These include engraveable backplates, mix and match face and wood options, and engraveable cedar humidor presentation boxes. Every watch comes with a one-year warranty and free worldwide shipping!

JORD Watch Giveaway

Want to win $100 towards a JORD watch for yourself? Enter the giveaway in the link below! The winner will be emailed within a month of the contest closing. Everyone who enters will receive 10% off!

ENTER GIVEAWAY

Disclaimer: I received my JORD watch complimentary for review. All words and opinions, however, are my own!

What to Wear for Valentine’s Day

January 21, 2019

Calling all love birds & galentines! Vday is upon us <3 Whether you need a casual Valentine’s Day outfit, Galentine’s party outfit, or a fancy dress for a Valentine’s Day date night – these three outfits are sure to make you stand out. All are pink themed – my signature color – and use very cute, possibly staple closet items. View my Valentine’s Day outfits roundup below!

Casual Valentine’s Day Outfit

Goodnight Macaroon Sweater // Kate Spade Handbag // Goodnight Macaroon OTK boots

I wore this mauve pink sweater from Goodnight Macaroon for the first time a few months ago and it was a huge hit. It’s the perfect amount of fuzzy – doesn’t shed on you and is still super soft. It does rise a little bit higher than the normal top, so I recommend it with high-waisted pants. This dusty peony Kate Spade handbag is a lifetime keeper. Unique and very cute! This outfit is perfect for a casual day out or casual work attire. Pair it with these ‘Ellis’ Black Classic Over the Knee Suede Leather Boots from Goodnight Macaroon to spice it up!

Galentine’s Party Outfit

what to wear for valentine's day galentine's day

J.Crew Factory Faux-Fur Vest // YSL Sunset Medium Bag // Sam Edelman Hal Studded Bootie

Who has some Galentine’s Day celebrations coming up?? This outfit can be a safe choice for a girls night out or night in. The faux-fur vest from J.Crew Factory is literally the softest item of clothing I have ever felt. Not even joking. The mauve pink is perfect for a fun, Galentine’s celebration! Pair any outfit with these studded Sam Edelman booties for a city edge look and YSL Sunset Medium bag for chic inspiration.

Valentine’s Day Date Night Outfit

Badgley Mischka Faille Dress

If I didn’t already love the color pink, my excitement was heightened with this BEAUTIFUL magenta Faille dress from Badgley Mischka. With a loose, almost off-the-shoulder top, this midi is perfect for a romantic date night. Also another closet staple in my book! This Marc by Marc Jacobs silver sequin clutch is no longer for sale, however any silver (preferably sequined) clutch would do to complete the look!

Items Used in More Than One Post

Spanx Faux Leather Leggings // Spanx Faux Leather Leggings (Petite)