Bright white

Shirt: Forever 21($15.80)|Jeans: Nordstrom Rack($14.99)|Shoes: Jessica Simpson @ Ross($24.99)|Belt: Ross($6.99)| Bracelets: Forever 21($7.80& $1.80)
Perfect for work or a day (or night) when you just need to look a little more done up, without actually wearing a dress! A bright white button down makes any jean look more dressed up :)
Hope your Monday was wonderful! Only 4 more days till the weekend!

Boyfriend Jeans

Jeans: Old Navy($19.50)|Shirt: Forever 21($7.80)|Cardigan: Old Navy($22.50)|Necklace: Charlotte Russe($6.50)|Sandals: Forever 21($7.80)| Belt: Express(old, I don't remember how much:)|Bracelets: Forever 21(6.80)
Sorry for my lack of posting, pretty much ALLLLL week. It has been a very very hectic week for us. We are in the process of deciding to move or not. We have done a lot of apartment shopping, and a lot of apartment showing in the last number of days, and I have had hardly a second of free time to blog. But anyway, I got a new pair of pants about a month ago. The boyfriend jean! They were on sale at Old Navy, and I didn't really know if I wanted to get them just cause I am so used to wearing my trousers or skinnies. But after much consideration, I bought them, and I am very very happy with my choice, considering I have been wearing them almost daily. They are perfect for everyday. My pair are perfect for me cause they are not too loose, not too tight, and I can slip them on and be comfortable the whole day. I would say you must get a pair :)

Minty fresh

Jeans: Sexy Modest Boutique($43.50)|Shirt: J.Crew($11.99 on clearance)| Necklace: Forever 21($8.80)|Sandals: Forever 21($7.80)

I was on the hunt for minty skinnies a couple weeks ago. I searched high and low, and it seemed to me that the only pairs of mint skinnies I could find were at least a 100 bucks or more, but I was IN LOVE with mint jeans like you wouldn't believe, so I seriously contemplated shelling out the extra cash for the splurge pair. Im really glad I didn't because just a day or two later I found these ones at a store here in Utah called Sexy Modest Boutique. Eh, the name didn't sell me, but the mint jeans they posted on their Facebook page did. I rushed over there the next day and ordered a pair. They were in back stock at the time so I gambled and had to guess and order a size without trying it on...something I almost never do. But when they came in, I got lucky and they were perfect! They cost me $43.50, but it was SOOOOO much more worth it than blowing $150 on similar ones. I told my friend about my find, and she told me that she already ordered mint jeans from The Limited! And right now they are on sale!!!!So my friends, if you love mint skinny jeans, want some for yourself, and love a good deal, Here you go. They are very limited on the sizes of the mints right now (but colored denim usually runs really small), but they have quite a few corals. My 2nd favorite colored jean color :)

How do you feel about mint skinnies? Do you love the color, or do you hate them!?

Wardrobe Staples

Hey lovely ladies! So I recently had a reader ask me to do post on wardrobe staples, and OF COURSE I want to help out with that. She told me that she is just starting out with her wardrobe and needs some ideas of must have things to have in her closet. Well today I'm gonna show you what I think are basic must haves for every fashionable girl, budget or no budget!

1. Good fitting jeans: Every girl needs a pair of perfect fitting jeans. Preferably in a dark wash, since it's flattering on everyone. Trouser pants are flattering on most figures, as long as they are not too short and not too long. In addition to that, at least one pair of go-to skinny jeans are a must. You can tuck them into boots, wear with heels, and they are the year-round jean.

2. Blazer: Like I have said before, I don't own too many blazers, but every girl should have at least one. Blazers are chic, perfect for dressing up and outfit, or layering instead of a jacket on semi-cold evenings.

3. Nude heels: It doesn't matter if they are pumps or stilettos, every girl should own a pair of nude heels. Nude is the new black, and these bad boys can be paired with anything, and I do mean anything. I wear my nude heels more than any other heel. That's saying a lot.

4. Skinny belt: If you don't have a skinny belt, please get one. They are the simplest accessory to change up your outfit. It cinches your waist and creates interest in your outfit without drawing too much attention. I neutral color like tan is perfect for pairing with almost anything.

5. Day Dress: It's important to have at least one day/sun dress. Day dresses are flirty and feminine, but don't look too over done like wearing a cocktail dress midday. Plus they are perfect for days when you just want to slip on something easy if you don't want to wear pants.

6. Cardigan: I am a HUGE cardigan lover. I seriously have more cardigans than anything in my closet. Part of that is for modesty's sake, and part is just because I love them! They are the most versatile, easiest thing you can wear, and with so many colors, styles, and patterns to choose from, why not have many and create many different looks? If you don't have any cardigans yet, start out with basics, like white or black. A striped cardigan in neutral colors would be perfect too.

7. Something Cheetah: That sounds dumb, but I love cheetah. Sure maybe some people think it's tacky, but what do they know!? They obviously don't know how to style it so you don't end up looking like a girl from Jerseylicious. There are so many options for cheetah; cardigans, belts, shoes, and scarfs (I have all those by the way), but any of them can be used minimally to spice up your outfit without going overboard.

8. Basic T-shirt: You should have several already, but every wardrobe needs a loose fitting basic tee. You can layer this guy like crazy. Start off with solid colors, and then if you want to experiment with patterns and colors, get a striped one like this one at J.Crew right now (I got this one in blue for only $11 on sale the other day)

9. Studs: Diamonds are a girls best friend, even not real diamonds are pretty lovable. I have a pair of cubic zirconia I got at Icing a while back, and I wear them almost everyday. Seriously. Fake diamonds do start looking shabby after a while, so I replace mine every year. But if you are wearing them that much, you are definitely getting your money's worth.

10. Pencil Skirt: Whether you are going to job interview or to church, the pencil skirt is flattering on almost every body type, and it just SCREAMS classy woman...ahhem...as long as it's not so tight it would rip of you bent over, and doesn't have a slit up the back right to your butt crack.

11. Peacoat: It is going into summer, but for future reference, a peacoat will probably never go out of style. They are always in demand, and always very sophisticated.

12. LBD: Im pretty sure this is a no brainer, but the little black dress is perfect for that night out you need to dress up, the work party, or an anniversary.

13. Button-up blouse: These have a special place in my heart. Perfect for layering, always in style, always should be in your closet:)

And then there are MY opinion staples. These are things that may or may not be a fad right now, but at least good to have in your closet right now while they are in:

1. Statement Necklace (this one is only $16 from Nordstrom-here)

2. Wedges

3. Chambray shirt

4. Colored Denim

Hope this helped anyone looking to add those little staple pieces to their wardrobe! Let me know if you have any questions!

The Dress

Dress: H&M($29.95)| Cardigan: Forever 21($14.80-old but a similar one here)| Necklace: BP @ Nordstrom($18.99)| Shoes: Charlotte Russe($10)

Im a little obsessed with this dress. How cute is this for spring and summer? It's cap sleeved so you can throw a cardigan over it if its cooler, or keep it simple if it's warmer! It even has pockets, ugh I have been dreaming of a dress with pockets since I've seen them come out on wedding dresses. No more toting around a purse if you don't want to, or asking your man to hold all your lip glosses in his pocket. Want one? It's right here.


You're welcome...or I'm sorry :)

Guest Blogger: Brianna from Shine or Set

Hi girls!

I am very very excited today to feature my first guest blogger, Brianna from the wonderful blog Shine or Set!

If you have never seen her blog before, head on over there. She has an amazing fitness and weight loss story (read about it here and here, and her transformation to a healthy lifestyle is truly inspiring. I invited her to talk a little bit about her journey today! To be honest she definitely wasn't the most out of shape person, and by many standards she still looked great, and I still think she was just lovely, but she decided to make a change and devoted to creating a healthier lifestyle for herself, and who can't admire that???

So I hope everyone enjoys her advice today. Whether you want to shed some pounds, get in shape, tone up, or just eat healthier, she has something great for everyone! I know I'm excited about every topic cause I want to work on each one of those!



What made you decide to change your lifestyle and lose weight?
I didn't notice how much weight I had gained, until it hit me one day while looking at pictures and glancing in the mirror. While I certainly didn't have it that bad, I wasn't comfortable with myself. I was extremely disappointed and I just wanted to hide. So I did. I lost my confidence. I felt unattractive whenever I wore a bikini, or went out with my pretty friends. I couldn't open up to people or be myself because I was so concerned with the outer part of myself. I wasn't getting much encouragement from the relationship I was in at the time, either.
I decided to make a change when I put my happiness first. I knew that no one could change my life, but me. I think I had actually just went to the movies solo for the first time and saw Eat, Pray, Love. It may sound lame, but it was so inspiring to me. Soon after seeing it, I left my relationship, put down the cheeseburger, and began discovering myself again. I was determined to find the things I loved about myself, and also begin a healthier lifestyle. I know physical appearances aren't everything, but when you don't feel comfortable in your skin it can whittle away your inner self. I didn't want to whittle away anymore, I wanted to grow.

What habits did you have to stop in order to get into shape?
I stopped eating when I was bored. I strayed away from beer, and acquired a taste for vodka waters...with lemon. Don't forget the lemon! I stopped regularly seeing Taco Bell, and kept our relationship as a once-a-month kind of fling.

How did you begin your transformation? Little by little or jumping in head first?
I guess you could say I jumped headfirst. I was so ready for a new life and a new me, there was just no waiting. I think when you want something so bad you really push yourself to do it. That doesn't mean going to run seven miles on the first day, but at least get on the treadmill and do what you can.

What are your favorite ways to exercise?
I love to run, and I was never big on running. It felt so exhausting, so I mainly stuck to the elliptical because it felt easier. I think my body plateaued at some point in the weight loss journey and so I figured I would give the treadmill a chance. It wasn't half bad after a few times. I definitely started out slow and worked my way up. It's all about training yourself. I would push myself to stay on just a little longer or go a little faster with each time. Now I'm on there every day. I love listening to good jams and clearing my head while I sweat it out. Besides running, I love hiking, Zumba, and Bikram Yoga (when I can afford it!)

What kept you motivated in getting healthy and what motivates you now to keep in shape?
I stayed motivated by knowing that I was doing it for me. Everything I did was going to benefit me. You can't make it about anyone else when it comes to losing weight or toning up. Sure, a breakup or a glossy picture in a magazine can spark some motivation. Ultimately though, those things wear off and you're left with solely you and your own will.
Now-a-days I stay motivated to stay in shape because I see how far I've come. I never want to go back to being that quiet girl who lacked confidence and respect for herself. It was a low point that I never want to revisit.
If I need a push to go to they gym, I'll hop on Pinterest fitness boards or look through a fitness magazine. Then I'm off. Sometimes you need those little sparks sometimes.

Is there anyone who inspires you fitness wise?
I have a fitness crush on the Tone It Up girls. They look amazing and are so motivating with their constant, upbeat attitudes. They make a healthy lifestyle fun.

What are your favorite healthy foods to eat?
I looove berries. Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries. I put them on my cereal, oatmeal, salads, or eat them just by themselves. I also really like CLIF bars. The peanut butter chocolate chip ones are my favorite. When it comes to a little more substance, grilled chicken or salmon is my go-to.

What was the hardest part about losing the weight?
I think the hardest part about losing the weight was actually the after math. Sounds silly, right? While I had shed the weight, I hadn't shed the attitude. Sometimes I still struggle with being confident because I feel like I'm in my old body. It can be frustrating and really saddens me that I still go out and sit in the corner with my arms crossed. So unapproachable! I'm definitely feeling better in my new skin though. I know I've come a long way and I just need to remind myself of that.

Who has supported you the most in your journey to becoming healthy?
To be honest, I think I was my biggest support. My friends and family were obviously supportive of my determination, but they didn't really notice how much weight I had put on. I don't think they fully understood my need for a change. Now they tell me how shocked they are when they see before-and-after photos because they hadn't even realized.
I think in these types of things, you have to be your main support. It's your body and you're doing it for yourself. You should definitely surround yourself with positive people and walk away from those who are damaging.
I do want to give a shout-out to my dear friend, Kristen. She was a big support and push in my decision for a change.

Do you have a favorite recipe that you would like to share?
I'm a big fan of Italian food, so it's always fantastic to find recipes that are low in calorie.
This one is from Cook Yourself Thin! Only 350 calories per serving (yields 4 servings).

Chicken Parmesan and Zucchini "Pasta"
Ingredients:

For the tomato sauce and zucchini pappardelle
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/4 red onion, coarsely chopped
3 cloves garlic, sliced thin
Salt
1 28-ounce can peeled plum tomatoes, preferably San Marzano, in juice, mashed
1 sprig fresh basil
Pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
4 zucchini, thinly sliced
For the chicken
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus 2 tablespoons extra for serving
1/4 cup dried whole-wheat or white bread crumbs
1 large egg white, lightly beaten with a fork
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts split in half to make 6–8 large, thin cutlets
Pepper
4 teaspoons olive oil, plus 2 teaspoons extra for serving
1/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese


Preparation:
1. For the sauce, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion, garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring, 1 minute. Cover, reduce heat to very low and cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. (Check a few times during cooking; if vegetables begin to brown, add 2 teaspoons water and stir.) Add the tomatoes with juice, basil and another 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer, cover and simmer gently 5 minutes. Then simmer very gently, partially covered, until thickened, about 20 minutes. Season with 1/8 teaspoon pepper.

2. Meanwhile, using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, slice the zucchini lengthwise into 1/8-inch-thick long pappardelle-like strips, turning the zucchini and slicing on 4 sides only until you see the center seeds. Discard the centers.

3. Remove the tomato sauce to a bowl with a rubber spatula; no need to clean the skillet. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cover and cook until wilted, tossing often with tongs for even cooking, 8 to 10 minutes. Return the tomato sauce to the pan, add 1 tablespoon of the parsley, and season with 1/8 teaspoon pepper; cover and set aside.

4. On a plate, combine the bread crumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and the remaining chopped parsley. Place the egg white on a second plate. Sprinkle chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Dip the chicken into the egg whites, and then into the bread crumb mixture to coat completely; set aside on a large plate or platter.

5. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in each of two nonstick 10-inch skillets over medium-high heat. Add half of the chicken to each skillet and cook until lightly browned on one side, 2 to 3 minutes. Flip, and cook until chicken is firm, and lightly browned on the other side, 1 to 3 more minutes.

6. To serve, re-warm the zucchini in the tomato sauce over medium heat. Use tongs to make a “twist” of zucchini pappardelle on each of 4 plates. Lean chicken cutlets against the side of zucchini. Scoop 1 tablespoon ricotta onto each plate, and spoon remaining tomato sauce on top of

What advice would you give to someone looking to get in shape and lose weight?
Dedication, motivation, and self-love all go hand-in-hand. You have to work hard, you have to keep the bigger picture in your head, and you have to know you're doing it because you love yourself.


Thank you Brianna for your wonderful post today!

My first haul!

So I went to a mall yesterday during the day, some ways away from my home, and I had a field day! I got away with SO much good stuff, and that always makes those kind of trips so much more worth it. When it comes to Forever 21 especially, people have told me that "they never find anything good there" and one person actually told me I find good stuff because "I stalk that store." Yes and no. Yes I have a LOT of free time being a stay at home mom, and lucky (or unlucky) for me there is a mall 3 minutes from my house. So I probably see my local Forever 21 more than most people do. But on the flip side, I do manage to find pretty good finds, at great prices at almost all places I go. If you have the time to dedicate to it, finding inexpensive stuff that you love can be very achievable. I have learned the trick is to take a look around more than once...

Let me explain. I almost never find the things I end up buying in the first round of stuff I pick up. When you fist go to a store, the first thing most people do is start frantically searching for something that catches their eye. There is a lot to take in when you go into a clothes store, especially into a large, usually disorganized store like Forever 21. Most people scan those things closest in eye shot, and pick up the stuff that they notice first,  or they pick up things that are similar to what they already own because they know it looks good and they know it's something they would wear. I always do this.
I usually head to the dressing room with 10 different items, and usually none of them look good or I realize that I already have almost the exact same piece of clothes.

It's then when you feel like you have already searched the store and there is nothing good, that you need to take another look. I swear to you this works. I swear it, at least most of the time. Of course you need to not be rushed or in a hurry. Plan a day that you don't have anything pressing and dedicate it to just taking your time. When you start taking another look, you start looking HARDER. When you look harder, you find things that are tucked away and not spotlighted, which many times are totally untouched. I cannot tell you how many times I come out of the dressing room discouraged cause I found nothing I liked. I decide to take one more look and I find the jackpot of cute stuff, hidden in places I looked right over before.

For example, yesterday I went to H&M. I probably took 8 things into the dressing room after looking around for almost 30 minutes. Nothing and I mean nothing of the 8 worked out, and I thought, "no way. I came all the way down here. I'm sure there is something I missed." I spent the next hour (yes an hour) re-looking over the store. I ended up with 17 things in the dressing room my next trip. None of them were things I even noticed before. I bought 3 things. I would have bought 6 but I really needed to limit my spending so I didn't buy a couple things that I really still liked.

I headed over to Anne Taylor LOFT and they were having a 40% of sale on sale items. I found tons of cute stuff after scanning the store. I found 2 super cute shirts for 10 bucks each, and as I was coming out of the dressing room with my soon to be purchases, I saw a little rack off to the side, I decided to check it out, and low and behold, an adorable sweater dress in my size, normally $89.50 on clearance for $14.99.  Had I not taken another look, I would have missed this awesome find!

So my friends, if you have the time, take another look, you might be surprised what you find! I can't wait for you guys to see my finds from my haul on! Hopefully you will love them!

Also girls, stay tuned for tomorrow!!! I have a very special treat for you! I will be having my first guest blogger and will be focusing on health/fitness. You don't wanna miss it!

Hope you're having a great day! xoxo

By the way: Im putting up my blow-dry tutorial one more time. I have heard from many people that the "fixed" video is still not working. So hopefully this last attempt will work! Let me know if it is viewable please!

Photo crash

Welp, Photobucket decided to suspend my photos on the blog since I'm getting too many views. Looks like I gotta start paying them now! Anyway, Im working to fix the problem, and pictures should be up again in no time. Until then hang tight while I get it straightened out! Sorry guys!:(

Blow-dry Tutorial (FIXED VIDEO!!!!)

So my last video didn't work because I put music on it, and apparently that didn't fly with You Tube, so I re-uploaded it without music and this time it should work. Sorry you will have to sit in silence for 5 minutes! It's the though that counts though!

Anyway Recently I have had a lot of friends who have told me I should do a tutorial on how I blow-dry my hair, so I thought I would do just that today :)

Blow-drying your hair with a round brush is tough, not gonna lie. Even someone who has been doing it for a long time still gets tried of it fast, and before long your wrist aches just looking at a round brush. A lot of friends I know don't know how to blow-dry with a round brush, BUT it is probably easier than you might think. Before I went to Paul Mitchell my friend Kendra showed me how to blow dry my hair. Her way was wayyyyy over my head since she is a professional hair dresser, so I tweaked it to be a little easier for myself, but all the credit in learning how to do it was from her, and I have been blow-drying it the same ever since.

I had to speed up the video otherwise it was going to be like 15 minutes long, so sorry if parts just fly right by, but I hope you can still get the jist of it!

By the way, my blow-dryer is Paul Mitchell...I LOVE, and both of the brushes you see are Paul Mitchell as well. If you have any questions please leave me a comment and I'll get back to you! I hope you enjoy friends!






By the way, I saw these at Forever 21 today, and I'm torn on wether or not to get them.

They are only $29.80. I'm a little hesitant since we are going into summer and I can't really wear them for a while, but they are almost too cute to pass up. The only reason I didn't actually buy them is cause they were out of my size at the store. What do you guys think? I'm TORN! Let me know if you think I should get them! If YOU wanna buy them for yourself click HERE.

Have a great Sunday!:)

I lied.

Shirt: Forever 21($17.80)| Skirt: Forever 21($7.80)| Boots: Charlotte Russe (2 pairs for $50)| Belt: Forever 21($6.80)| Bracelets: Forever 21($1.80)| Watch: BP @ Nordstrom ($18)
I guess I wasn't done with my boots yet. Ok, ok, I'm done now! I've put them away but I seriously love my boots so much, I had to give them one last day out!

Can I just tell you how much I love this shirt? I got it at...you guessed it, Forever 21 last winter, and I can't even count how many times I have worn it. When it comes to shirts that have elaborate necklines already, like this one, I don't feel the need to wear too much jewelry. Sometimes, with certain outfits, minimal is best. But of course, I did pair it with my staple watch and bracelets, and of course my diamond studs. (not real diamonds) haha
My boots I am wearing probably have seen better days. I probably wore them everyday at the end of my pregnancy, and so they are looking a little rough. Ill tell you why. When I was pregnant, I was a giant orb of belly. It was huge....

see below:


it was probably due to my lack of hips, thus baby moved all out front, and by about 29 weeks I couldn't even reach my feet to paint my toenails, much less get my own shoes on and off. But I had an issue, it was fall/going into winter and my boots were the easiest thing in the world to slip on. On...not off. Scott had class till late every night and I would get home before he did, and everyday I was in a full blown panic when I came in the door and knew I had to attempt to take off my own boots. One day I was so upset, I almost went to my neighbor to ask for her help in getting them off. I would struggle, and cry, and kick, and grunt, and get down on the floor, and kick at them until they flung off all the way across the room. They would hit walls, whatever was lying around, and I would leave them laying wherever they fell, and go straight to my bed for a nap (taking off your own shoes while pregnant exhausts you. Well actually everything you do pretty much requires a nap.) And then I would always swear that I would not wear them again cause it was too much hassle...until the next day when I was a work for at least an hour before I realized Iwas wearing them again.

I couldn't win. But you'll be glad to know that I can get my own shoes off now :)

Anyway, I hope ya'll are having a great day!

By the way- the nail polish I am wearing is OPI-Red lights ahead...Where?
I am seriously obsessed with this slightly orange tinted red.

Pink Nautical and the GIVEAWAY WINNER!

Shorts: TJ Maxx($16.99)| Shirt: Forever 21 ($5.80)| Cardigan: Target ($10-on clearance!)|Belt: Forever 21 ($5.80)| Sandals: Forever 21 ($7.80)| Necklace: Forever 21 ($8.80)| Bracelets: Forever 21 ($1.80)| Watch: BP @ Nordstrom ($18)| Sunglasses: Betsey Johnson @ Nordstrom Rack ($18)

Who says Nautical colors can only be red, white, and blue? Put a new spin on nautical by pairing pink, blue, and stripes together! Add some gold accents and a thin belt to give your outfit a "day on the yacht" feel. Oh man, who wouldn't love a day on a yacht? You can look like you spend your day sailing at sea, without having to have the money to really do so! When it comes to wearing crops/bermuda shorts there is something to keep in mind. Many times these shorts can cut off at a weird length, making your legs look short and stumpy, like in these pictures! But if you are anything like me, there is no other option but to wear these type of shorts or longer! Try to wear wedges if you can to elongate your legs, unless of course you have spidery long legs to begin with and can pull off flats with these type of shorts, in which case, I hate you. :)

Anyway, the winner of the giveaway was randomly chosen this morning, and here is our winner!!!


e-mail me at thedimediary@yahoo.com so I can get your information :)

To everyone else, thank you for following and entering, I will have another giveaway soon!

Last Chance!

Tonight is the last night to enter the giveaway! It closes at midnight and the winner will be randomly chosen:)
Check back here tomorrow to see if you won!

xoxo

Mix & Match

Dress: Cotton On($5)| Cardigan: Forever 21($12.80)| Belt: Forever 21($8.80)| Shoes: Charlotte Russe($10)|Bracelets: Forever 21($1.80)| Watch: BP @ Nordstrom($18)| Sunglasses: Forever 21($1.80)!!!! seriously!
I have a good one for you guys today. I hope you love it! This outfit is seriously the best, and everything was SO cheap! When it comes to fashion and having a fun style, its important to remember to let go of your inhibitions. I used to wear everything so match matchy, and wearing mismatching prints, bright lipstick, or super tall heels were WAAAAAAY out of my comfort zone. I felt very insecure thinking "are other people going to think what I'm wearing looks stupid?" and then I realized it didn't matter what other people thought of my outfits. When I finally felt free to dress how I thought looked cute, I came to realize I felt more confident and more secure with my clothing choices, and better yet, people told me they loved them too!

One main tip for opening up your wardrobe huge time...mixing your prints. Gone are the days of wearing only one pattern and having only one main color to your outfit! Even though maybe stripes, and cheetah print are not matching patterns at all, it's amazing how great they can look together. That's because the key to mixing them is either incorporating one main color throughout, like in this case: white/cream, and then adding one bright contrasting color to make it pop, in this case: red.

It's awesome how much your wardrobe expands when you can mix all your different colors and patterns with each other! So go out there and mix your wardrobe up. Pair some things together you might have not ever considered before; and most of all, try on that weird shirt, that awkwardly hanging dress at the store. Iv'e learned that sometimes the strangest looking things on hangers, look the best on!

By the way guys, feel free to pin any of my outfits to Pinterest if you would like, just remember to pin from the original source (my blog) so that I can maintain credit for them ok?! I've added Pin It buttons to make it easier, and the more popular The Dime Diary gets, the better the giveaways!:)

Hope Monday was easy on ya!


P.S. I'm wearing my Revlon lip butter in Candy Apple. Have you bought one yet?
P.S.S. today and tomorrow are the are the last days to enter the giveaway! Have you entered yet?

Happy Easter!

From my family to yours:)

What did you/are you wearing for Easter Sunday?

Quick one

Shirt: Old Navy($22.50-on sale)| Undershirt: Down East Outfitters($10)| Skirt: Forever 21($7.80)| Shoes: Charlotte Russe($10-on clearance)| Necklaces: Short one-Icing-worn for my wedding($15) Long one-American Eagle($5.00-clearanced)| Bracelet: Icing($10)
Sorry for my crazy hair! Its been sort of a weird week. Sorry for not posting much, but I will have tons coming up for this next week, promise! I have a hair tutorial I will probably put up tomorrow. Stay tuned!

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend, and don't forget to enter the giveaway if you haven't already!

Last of the Boots

Top: Forever21 ($12.80)| Tank Top: Papaya: ($4.50)| Jeans: Papaya($10)| Boots: Charlotte Russe (2 pairs for $50)| Bracelets: Forever 21($1.80 & $9.80)| Necklace: Forever 21($10.80)

So aren't these pictures ridiculous? Haha my friend who usually takes them was sick and my darling Scottifer stepped in to help. The lighting wasn't awesome, the detail isn't awesome, it was windy as HECK, and the whole thing was so silly I couldn't take Scott seriously, or myself seriously, and then we turned up with these. Oh well! Hope you get the jist!

Anywho, I am OBSESSED with the top. It seriously fits so great, and guess what? It's only $12.80 and comes is pink, blue, and green. It really doesn't get much better than that. They are still in stock!!! Buy it HERE.

Also these jeans are the best thing ever invented. I got them at Papaya in the mall, and they are only $10 dollars. I am pretty picky when it comes to jeans cause I hate to have the "butt thighs" where my butt slowly melts into the back of my thigh...thank you pregnancy. But I have 2 pairs of these, and Im obsessed, they are tight, but stretchy, and give you a cute little butt. Since my weight is still fluctuating all over the place from having Ava, it's nice to be able to get new jeans whenever my size changes and they 1. always have the same kind I like, and 2. are 10 dollars! Buy those HERE.

Here in Utah this week we have had some weird weather, it was super nice for several days, and then it got super cold and windy! I don't know what's going on, but I'm taking advantage of every last seconds I can use my fall boots. I seriously am considering making them a summer trend cause I love them so much. Too much? ok, yeah, a little weird, but I seriously don't know what I'll do this summer when I can't embrace my laziness and just pull on some boots.

So I want to get some ideas on things people maybe want to see on the blog! I am going to a do couple pregnancy fashion tutorials, and one this week. This week I am also going to show a video of my blowdrying/roundbrushing tutorial. Let me know if there is something specific you would like to see!

Also don't forget to enter the GIVEAWAY!

HAPPY HUMP DAY!

FIRST GIVEAWAY!!!

So since I have been getting a lot of traffic lately, I thought it was time to do my first giveaway! One lucky winner is going to win this fun necklace in white from Forever 21!

Here's what to do if you want to enter:

1. YOU MUST BE A PUBLIC FOLLOWER OF THE DIME DIARY (anonymous following does not count, I must be able to see you as a visible follower of the blog)

2. Leave a comment letting me know you follow the blog

3. For one additional entry like The Dime Diary on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TheDimeDiary

And that's it! The giveaway will run until next Tuesday at midnight! Good luck everybody :)

Blazer love

Blazer: Forever 21 ($29.80)| Shirt: Forever 21($13.80)| Pants: TJMaxx ($15.99)| Shoes: Jessica Simpson @ Ross($24.99)| Necklace: Forever 21($1.80)| Bracelets: Forever 21($1.80)| Watch: BP @ Nordstrom($18)


I don't own too many blazers. Im not sure why, I guess I always just thought of them more as work clothes than something I could wear on a daily basis, but done right they can really make you look polished and classy even if you have no where special to go! My favorite is this one from Forever 21. It's SUPER soft and a little thicker so its a great blazer for the fall, but since its getting warmer and warmer in Utah, I wanted to pull it out before it's too late!

Anyway, you may have noticed that I never include clutches or handbags in my posts. That's because as a momma, I only carry one bag now...the diaper bag. Before I had Ava I was determined to find a diaper bag that didn't LOOK like a diaper bag, and I found one. My bag is the Petunia PickleBottom Sashay Satchel.
Im not going to lie to you, I was not my thrifty self when it came to this. I blew a whopping $130 bucks on this bag. I decided that since I was having a baby and giving my husband a gift of bearing his seed, that I deserved a gift as well! I mean I did do all the work after all! haha I did a lot of research on what bag I wanted and finally decided on this one. So this post might bore anyone who is not a mother or mom to be to death, but if you are in the field of finding yourself a lovely diaper bag that doesn't look like a diaper bag, might I suggest this one. It also it very high quality, made of organic cotton, and has tons of pockets. It even turns into a backpack so you can wear it or strap it to your stroller. You will love this bag. Just have someone close by to catch your hubby when he faints!:)

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Kiss and Makeup

So I thought I would show you a look inside my makeup box today. Through trial and error I have figured out what products are worth the extra money and what products you can get away with buying at the drugstore. I apologize in advance for my makeup being so dirty! They just sit in my box, so I never clean the outside of them!:)

Foundation:
I have 2 different kind of foundation, first I have my everyday which is Revlon Photo Ready foundation.

I have tried MANY different foundations, everything from MAC to Bare Essentials, and I always come back to this foundation. Its cheap, about 12 dollars at Target or Wal-Mart and it offers really natural build-able coverage. I recently have tried both Nars and Makeup Forever HD foundation and honestly it beats the crap out of both of them. I need full coverage for my freckles and uneven skin tone, and this foundation has been my daily go to for years.


My other foundation is a new found love, it's called Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation.

This little tube is quite the bank breaker at $42 a bottle. YIKES! I had to work myself up to buying it, but honestly it is worth every single penny, but I only use it for special occasions. I tried it from a friend at first and as I tried it, it just went on smoothly and just a little bit goes a long long way. It was shocked actually with how little I had to use, so you are really going to get your money's worth considering you should have it for a long time. This foundation doesn't mask your face, it just makes you look flawless. Make-up is not meant to make you look like a different person, its meant to make you look like a better version of yourself, and this does just that. You can find this at Sephora or Nordstrom.

Powder:
For days when I need a little more coverage than just foundation can provide, I used Neutrogena Healthy Skin Pressed Powder $12

It doesn't get cake-y, it doesn't look obvious, it it just goes on really smoothly.

Blush:
Love and Beauty blush from Forever 21 $3.80

I hop around from blush to blush, and when it comes to blush I honestly don't feel like it's one of those things you need to spend a lot of money on. I have tried a few more expensive ones, and in all reality as long as you are not buying it from the dollar store, the color is going to come out pretty good. I tried this one recently cause I was out and it was so cheap. The color doesn't turn out that bright, it's much more of a soft pink, but provides really good color.

Primer:
Bare Escentuals Prime Time $25

So this is the best foundation primer I have ever used. It is silky, glides on your skin, doesn't break you out (in my experience), and really gives your foundation staying power. If you are not going to spend a lot on your foundation, at least buy something that will be a great base. A little bit goes a long way on this one too, I have had this bottle for about a year!


Mascara:
NYX Za Za Zu Volumizing Mascara $6.99

I am a mascara junkie. I have used seriously a gazillion mascaras. Its kind of a problem. I have never really found one that I love more than any others, the only one that has ever come close is L'Oreal Voluminous. But recently i have tried this little guy and I actually really like it. Obviously it not going to lengthen your lashes, and it really does take several coats in order to get the full volume i look for, but it does do the job, and Im happy with the purchase.

Everday eyeshadow:
Covergirl Eyehancers $4.99 and Maybelline Smokes $5.99

These are my everyday eyeshadows. The Covergirl one I have in Shimmering Sands. Its all neutral colors and are a little bit shimmery considering I don't really like matte eyeshadows. This is my 3rd or 4th set and I will NEVER stop using it.

The Maybelline I use in the Natural Smokes color, and I use it for when I want my everyday eyeshadow to be a little more smokey. I
usually use 2nd darkest color since I have found the darkest brown turns out to be almost black and makes me look like a raccoon.

Other eyeshadow:
MAC Pigment Pots $18



These eyeshadows have a special place in my heart. If you have never tried the pigment pots before, you must. I die for these eyeshadows. The color and the pigments are incredible. INCREDIBLE. They are loose and although they are a little bit more on the expensive side, they will last you forever. FOR-EV-ER. I'm not exaggerating either. The darker color called Chocolate Brown, I have had for 6 years, and the lighter called Cocomotion, I have had for 4 years, and neither one is even close to be being empty. A tiny tiny bit goes a long way and the first time I bought it, the girl selling it to me said "you will get sick of the color before you ever use it all up." She wasn't kidding. These are investment eyeshadows, they don't expire, as you can see since I use a 6 year old one still, and the color is so rich. If you don't feel like shelling out the almost 20 bucks for one, just go in and ask for a sample. I have gotten samples in 3 other colors and they each lasted about 2 years. HA! yeah, a sample lasts that long.

Lipstick:
MAC in Impassioned $14 and Revlon Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake $6.99

Revlon's Lip Butters are a god send. When I saw these on the shelf I bought two. Strawberry Shortcake sand Candy Apple (Red). I love them both. The Strawberry Shortcake is the best everyday pink. It has bright color, but feels like a lip balm. I don't like most lipsticks because they are waxy and dry on your lips, but these literally keep your lips soft like chapstick for hours. Not to mention the color is just so pretty. Please buy one, I beg of you.

My favorite actual lipstick is called Impassioned by MAC. It is hot pink. I don't wear this that often since it's SO SO bright, but when I have a hot date with my man, or just want to dress up and feel more girly, I throw this on. Granted, it may not be the right color for everyone, but if you love a bright statement for your lips, this is a must buy.

Eyeliner:
Maybelline Master Precise in Black $6.99

I have tried a lot of eyeliners just like mascaras, and I have found the one I will use forever. It is like a super thin felt marker. The tip is super super thin and the base wider so you can make your lines as thin or as thick as you want. It stays put all day long and does not smudge, but comes off super easy with just some water, even if you have never used "liquid liner" this is a great place to start, and for experts alike!


Bronzer:
Victoria's Secret Mega Bronze Tan Booster $12

I may not be the greatest person to give advice on bronzer considering that I am a ghost right now, but in the summer when my body best really tan, my face usually stays significantly whiter. So thats where this comes in. I bought it last year in the summer during the Semi-Annual Sale. The bronze color looks really natural, and doesn't look orangey at all. Best of all, it is build-able, so you can use it year round. The only downfall I would day is the actual brush that dispenses it isn't that great, so I usually dispense it onto my hand and then brush it on with my own kabuki brush.


Eyebrow Gel:
ELF Wet Brow Gloss $1

Yes you read that right, 1 dollar. At Target they have ELF products and this is my favorite. No need to buy expensive brow glosses. This stuff costs a buck and has 2 sides so it will last you a while. It has super strong hold and keep your eyebrows in place all day long. There isn't really much more to say, and there really isn't any excuse not to own it.


Setting Powder:
Makeup Forever HD Powder $15

So I'm just going to say this. This feels like your face is being dusted with pure silk. This is one product to spend a little more on. I used to have another setting powder called Ben Nye Neutral Set...it sucked. This stuff is far superior and I'm very glad I spent a little more to have this product. It may be white, but after dusting it on, it goes translucent, and keeps your face makeup in place all day. I don't ever even need to touch up. It comes in 2 sizes, the smaller size is about .17 oz and it costs $15. So it is a lot for how much you get. Im not sure what the size of the other one is, but its about $30. I bought the smaller one, cause you only use a little bit and it lasts a long time. I have had mine since the summer and its still half full. You get what you pay for in this product, and it's worth the splurge.


Lipgloss:
Buxom by Bare Escentuals $18

I have a ton of different lip glosses, but by far my favorite is my Buxom gloss in the color Bunny. This my 3rd tube and I will continue to buy it. Tts a super cute pink, that comes out more sheer. It claims that it is a lip plumper...hmmm I don't know that I have ever noticed the plumping, but I don't care. I buy it for the color and the fact that it makes my lips tingle a little bit, kind like they are cold It feels awesome! The gloss lasts a lot longer than most glosses I feel since it's a little bit thicker, and they have TONS of colors. They even have come out with more colors since I last bought this one. You can find this at Sephora or at the Bare Escentuals store!


Well that's my make-up box! My tried and true favorites. I hope you can find something you love!